Political News – Monthly Newsletter March 2011

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Putin, Medvedev share nearly 24 ’secret palaces’ between them

MOSCOW – Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin allegedly share between them at least two dozen palaces, villas and mansions, according to a respected Russian magazine.

The Russian liberal media and blogosphere has been alive with discussion about possible secret residences belonging to the two since a businessman in December accused Putin of …. Read the original article  : Putin, Medvedev share nearly 24 ’secret palaces’ between them.

Stern action on Shunglu Committee’s first report: PMO

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Tuesday said it has taken a “serious view” on the first report of the Shunglu Committee which has found irregularities in the award of broadcasting rights for the Commonwealth Games and will take “stern action” on it.

“The prime minister has taken a serious view of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stern action on Shunglu Committee’s first report: PMO.

March of a million: Protesters converge in Cairo (Second Lead)

CAIRO – Thousands of defiant protesters began to pour into Cairo Tuesday to participate in the march of a million to secure ouster of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak who has ruled them for nearly 30 years. The army has said it won’t be using force.

The determined protesters gathered in Cairo’s Tahrir Square, which …. Original article  : March of a million: Protesters converge in Cairo (Second Lead).

Lava bubbling below the surface, daily warns Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – There is “a lava bubbling under the surface” in Pakistan, said an editorial in a Pakistani daily as it commented on the political upheaval in Tunisia and Egypt.

“Pakistans history of incompetent democratic regimes and dictatorial military governments has left the people with few choices,” an editorial in the Daily Times Tuesday … Original article on : Lava bubbling below the surface, daily warns Pakistan.

Nepal PM race heads for another fiasco

KATHMANDU – With only 24 hours left for Nepal’s political parties to name their candidates, the prime ministerial poll Thursday in the turbulent republic is headed for another fiasco. Last year, 16 rounds of vote failed to name a new premier.

The dim hope that the three major parties would hammer out an agreement to …. Original source  : Nepal PM race heads for another fiasco.

Serious challenges to internal security: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, today said that serious challenges and threats to the country from left wing extremism, cross-border terrorism, religious fundamentalism and ethnic violence still persist.

Addressing the Chief Ministers’ conference on internal security here, Dr. Manmohan Singh urged the states that no let up be … Read : Serious challenges to internal security: Manmohan Singh.

WikiLeaks founder Assange’s mum says Oz PM is a US sycophant

Townsville (Queensland, Australia), – The mother of the founder of the whistle blowing website WikiLeaks, Julian Assange has launched a scathing attack on Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, calling her a “sycophant” of the United States.

Christine Assange said Gillard’s views about her son’s activities are costing her support within her party and among voters who … Read : WikiLeaks founder Assange’s mum says Oz PM is a US sycophant.

Feb 8 set as new date for North-South Korea military talks

SEOUL – The two Koreas Tuesday agreed to hold military talks Feb 8, their first since the North’s artillery strike on a South Korean island in November.

North Korea had asked Seoul to shift the date from Feb 11, the Yonhap News Agency quoted Defence Ministry officials as saying.
The working-level negotiations to be held …. Read the original article  : Feb 8 set as new date for North-South Korea military talks.

Even David Cameron’s doctor brother-in-law doesn’t trust NHS reforms

LONDON – UK Prime Minister David Cameron has dragged his own family into the row over the Government’s health reforms.

He revealed that his brother-in-law Carl Brookes-a cardiologist-had fears about the shake-up.

“My brother-in-law is a hospital doctor and he says ‘You’re giving too much power to the GPs, and hospitals will be disadvantaged,’” said Cameron.

In a … Original article on : Even David Cameron’s doctor brother-in-law doesn’t trust NHS reforms.

BJP leader Naidu slams Centre over increasing corruption

NEW DELHI – Criticizing the Congress-led UPA Government’s inability to curb increasing corruption, senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader M Venkaiah Naidu, said people are tired of facing it and immediate steps were needed to check it.

Addressing a press conference here on Monday, Naidu said: “After the UPA-II came to power, corruption has increased, whether …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP leader Naidu slams Centre over increasing corruption.

CBI is Congress Bureau of Investigation: Bal Thackeray

MUMBAI – Calling it the “Congress Bureau of Investigation”, Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray Tuesday said investigative agency CBI was carrying out “politically-motivated probes” in various cases, including the Adarsh Society scam in Mumbai.

In a stinging editorial in party mouthpiece Saamna, the Sena chief said for long the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Million people to march in Cairo, army will not use force

CAIRO – Preparations began Tuesday for the million people march in the Egyptian capital to oust President Hosni Mubarak as the army said that they will not “use force against the Egyptian people”. Another million-strong march is being planned at the Mediterranean port city of Alexandria.

The fierce protests against Mubarak entered the eighth day …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Million people to march in Cairo, army will not use force.

Kashmir situation improved due to government efforts: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday said the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, which witnessed violent protests last year, had improved vastly in the last four months due to measures taken by the state and central governments.

“The situation in the state has vastly improved in the last four months following the …. Original source  : Kashmir situation improved due to government efforts: PM.

Egypt government offers talk with opposition

CAIRO – As protesters gathered for a million people march Tuesday, intensifying their agitation against Hosni Mubarak’s 30-year rule, the Egyptian president asked the newly appointed vice president to hold talks with the opposition.

Vice President Omar Suleiman said Monday that President Mubarak had appointed him to hold immediate dialogue with the opposition, Xinhua reported.
…. Read the original article  : Egypt government offers talk with opposition.

New terror modules emerging: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday said new terror groups were emerging and there was no room for complacency even though the internal security situation in the country had vastly improved in the past year.

Addressing the fourth chief ministers’ conference on internal security here, Chidambaram said: “A number of modules (of …. Source article  : New terror modules emerging: Chidambaram.

Berlusconi sex scandal: Showgirls complain of losing jobs

LONDON/ROME – Small-time actresses and showgirls, who are at the centre of the prostitution scandal involving Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, have complained of losing their works because of the notoriety of the case, a media report here said.

Berlusconi, 74, is alleged to have paid “several” women for sex during wild “bunga bunga” parties … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi sex scandal: Showgirls complain of losing jobs.

Turkey calls for peace in Egypt

ANKARA – Expressing concern at the violence during the weeklong protests in Egypt, Turkey has urged both the Egyptian government and opposition groups to maintain peace in the country.

“Egypt has a key importance for peace and stability in the entire region. That’s why we want peace and stability in the country immediately and we …. Source  : Turkey calls for peace in Egypt.

US ambassador to China resigns, presidential run expected

WASHINGTON – The US ambassador to China has submitted his resignation to the White House ahead of what political observers expect to be a run for president.

Ambassador Jon Huntsman, a Republican, sent his resignation letter to President Barack Obama late Monday, the Politico reported.
White House spokesman Robert Gibbs had said earlier in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US ambassador to China resigns, presidential run expected.

Statement from National Security Council Spokesman Tommy Vietor on Events Surrounding “Strategy 31??? Protests

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The United States is troubled by reports of that dozens of people were detained in Moscow and other cities around Russia in connection with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Statement from National Security Council Spokesman Tommy Vietor on Events Surrounding “Strategy 31″ Protests.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 366

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

On Monday, January 31, 2011, the President signed into law:

H.R. 366, which extends the authorization of certain Small Business Administration programs until May 31, … Read more : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 366.

Election Commission begins Assam visit

GUWAHATI – The full bench of the Election Commission led by Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi arrived here Wednesday for a two-day visit to review the preparations for Assam’s assembly elections.

We will be holding meetings with political parties, civil and police officials besides influential organisations and teachers, Quraishi told reporters.
He is accompanied by …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nepal PM poll to see three-cornered fight again

KATHMANDU – As Nepals parliament goes to election Thursday to choose a new prime minister, the stage is set for a three-cornered fight once again with the same politicians who had fought for seven months last year.

Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda rode roughshod over the murmured dissent in his own party to stake … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal PM poll to see three-cornered fight again.

Chidambaram says didn’t mislead Sushma Swaraj on Thomas

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday denied allegations by opposition leader Sushma Swaraj that he “misled” the committee that selected P.J. Thomas as central vigilance commissioner (CVC) last year.

I take exception to the statement by Swaraj that I ‘misled the selection committee’ and told the committee that Thomas had been ‘acquitted’,” …. Source article  : Chidambaram says didn’t mislead Sushma Swaraj on Thomas.

Mubarak ready to quit, but vows to complete term (Second Lead)

CAIRO/WASHINGTON – Embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has said he would not run for re-election but defied the call to quit – the principal demand of protesters who have scaled up their movement and held the ‘march of a million’. Just hours later, President Barack Obama said the transition in Egypt must begin now.

In …. Original article  : Mubarak ready to quit, but vows to complete term (Second Lead).

Gordon Brown ‘ordered’ Zardari to “take Osama bin Laden out”: WikiLeaks

LONDON – Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown had ordered Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari to have al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden killed, a diplomatic cable unveiled by the whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has revealed.

Apparently convinced that bin Laden was alive and hiding in Pakistan, the then British Prime Minister told Zardari to “take … Original article on : Gordon Brown ‘ordered’ Zardari to “take Osama bin Laden out”: WikiLeaks.

Kerala heads for final showdown in this assembly

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Rival fronts in the Kerala political spectrum are getting ready for a final showdown in the last session of the present Kerala assembly beginning Friday with the governor’s address.

The session ends Feb 24 and by then Kerala will get ready for the campaign to the assembly elections as the term of the … Read more »»».

Yemeni president says will not run again

CAIRO – Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh has said he will not seek another term in office, broadcaster al-Arabiya reported Wednesday.

Saleh, aged 64, has ruled since 1978 – first in North Yemen and since the end of the Cold War in the united Gulf country.
The Yemeni leader’s announcement, which also said he would … Read : Yemeni president says will not run again.

Gogoi admits corruption under his rule

GUWAHATI – Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi Wednesday admitted that graft has taken place under his rule, but launched a counter attack claiming the two terms of main opposition Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) were also ridden by rampant corruption.

I would not say there was no corruption during our government. Yes, corruption did take place, …. Source article  : Gogoi admits corruption under his rule.

Congress leader Venkataswamy plans for Telangana Congress

HYDERABAD – Congress Working Committee (CWC) member and Telangana protagonist G. Venkataswamy Wednesday said he would float a new party if expelled from the Congress for his remarks blaming the Congress president Sonia Gandhi for electoral reverses and corruption.

“If I am expelled from the party, I will form the Telangana Congress to achieve … Read more »»».

Afghanistan president to visit India

KABUL – Afghanistan’s President Hamid Karzai is leaving for a two-day visit to India where he is to meet with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and other senior officials, his spokesman said Wednesday.

“President Karzai’s visit is aimed to discuss regional economic capacity development with the Indian authorities,” Seyamak Herawi said. “He will also meet …. Original source  : Afghanistan president to visit India.

Hosni Mubarak: End Of Reign?

CAIRO, EGYPT (GaeaTimes.com)- The political turmoil and civil unrest in Egypt and the resultant political pressure from allies has forced the President Hosni Mubarak to retreat from his earlier stance and experts predict the countdown for his ouster has started. The President who is losing support said on Tuesday that he would step down … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hosni Mubarak: End Of Reign?.

Vladimir Putin praises female students who posed for ‘erotic’ calendar

SYDNEY – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is all praise for twelve female students who posed for an “erotic” calendar to honour his 58th birthday.

Putin told supermodel Naomi Campbell that they were “courageous”, reports British GQ magazine.

“As student journalists, they couldn’t fail to understand what might have been said to them after doing this,” the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Vladimir Putin praises female students who posed for ‘erotic’ calendar.

Gillard rejects Assange’s legal help plea over Wikileaks disclosure of US cables

CANBERRA – A day after Wikileaks founder Julian Assange sought the Australian government’s help over the ongoing secret US diplomatic cables leak fiasco, Prime Minister Julia Gillard has said she would not intervene in the journalist’s legal obligations.

Gillard, however, said that Assange is free to return to Melbourne “unless there is some legal obligations keeping …. Source article  : Gillard rejects Assange’s legal help plea over Wikileaks disclosure of US cables.

West Bengal CM warns of immediate action against Trinamool-Maoist nexus

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has warned that action would be immediately taken on the nexus between the Trinamool Congress and the Maoists.

“The state government will no longer wait. We will take action immediately on the basis of evidences of Trinamool’s link with the Maoists which are tumbling out one after the …. Original source  : West Bengal CM warns of immediate action against Trinamool-Maoist nexus.

Gujarat cabinet expanded, six new ministers sworn in

GANDHINAGAR – Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday expanded his cabinet with the swearing in of six new ministers of state.
…. Original source  : Gujarat cabinet expanded, six new ministers sworn in.

Egypt unrest: Pakistan to send special plane for citizens

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan will send a special aircraft to Cairo to bring back its nationals, including tourists and some embassy staff, following the political upheaval in Egypt.

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Tuesday directed the defence ministry to dispatch a special aircraft to Cairo to bring back the families and non-essential staff of Pakistan embassy … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Egypt unrest: Pakistan to send special plane for citizens.

Resignation of Hindu lawmaker alarming, says Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – The resignation of a Hindu lawmaker who had received threats is “alarming”, said a Pakistani daily, adding that “no minority, irrespective of caste, creed or religious beliefs, is safe” in the country.

An editorial in the Daily Times Wednesday said: “On Saturday the resignation of a Hindu member of the Sindh Assembly, Ram …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Resignation of Hindu lawmaker alarming, says Pakistani daily.

New Zealand PM John Key stands by ‘hot’ Liz Hurley comment

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, who has been criticized for calling British actress and model Liz Hurley ‘hot’, has brushed off claims that he’s a sexist.

The British tabloid, the Daily Mail, picked up Key’s comments after he listed glamour-girl Hurley among his celebrity crushes during an interview on Radio Sport last week.

He [..] Read the original article: here.

Italian women to come together for ‘knicker-throwing’ Berlusconi protest

LONDON – As if his sexcapades aren’t enough to embarrass him, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is about to face more – a group of women plan to throw pairs of knickers at his mansion in protest of his involvement in an alleged prostitution ring.

The bizarre protest is against his apparent obsession with scantily clad … Read more »»».

Ethnic Indians among Malaysia’s title awardees

KUALA LUMPUR – M. Kayveas, who heads the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP), a constituent of the ruling coalition Barisan Nasional (BN), is among the ethnic Indians who are recipients of Malaysian honours.

Already a Datuk (a title conferred by the government), he received the Seri Mahakota Wilayah (SMW) award that would carry the … Read more : Ethnic Indians among Malaysia’s title awardees.

Tens of thousands in Yemen `Day of Rage’ demonstrations

SANA’A – Large demonstrations were taking place in Sana’a Thursday, with both pro- and anti-government protesters flocking to the centre of the Yemeni capital in their tens of thousands.

According to witnesses, more than 20,000 people supporting President Ali Abdullah Saleh were protesting near Sana’a University and another group was located in Tahrir Square.
Meanwhile, … Read more >>.

Someone impersonating me on Twitter, says Jayalalithaa

CHENNAI – AIADMK general secretary J. Jayalalithaa Thursday said someone was posting messages on micro-blogging site Twitter using her name.

In a statement here, Jayalalithaa said: “It has been brought to my notice that ‘tweets’ are being sent out through the social networking and micro-blogging website Twitter.com in my name.”
“I would like to clarify …. Source article  : Someone impersonating me on Twitter, says Jayalalithaa.

Bangladesh wants to redraw sea border with India

DHAKA – Bangladesh will approach the UN seeking to delineate its maritime borders in the Bay of Bengal with India and Myanmar.

Bangladesh claims over 450 nautical miles from its coastline in the Bay of Bengal.
The country has long-standing problems with India and Myanmar on the issue of “starting point” to mark its marine …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bangladesh wants to redraw sea border with India.

Protests in Yemen seek president’s ouster

SANA’A – The winds of change sweeping the Arab world Thursday saw more than 20,000 Yemenis take to the streets here demanding the ouster of President Ali Abdullah Saleh.

The protesters shouted slogans such as “people want the regime to fall, people want Saleh to go,” Xinhua reported. The protesters massed outside Sana’a University.
Read more >>.

Mario Balotelli’s girlfriend claims Berlusconi badgered her at his party

LONDON – Italian footballer Mario Balotelli’s girlfriend has revealed how Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi kept badgering her at one of his bunga bunga parties.

Sara Tommasi, 29, a model, said businessman Giampaolo Tarantini had invited her to the sumptuous Palazzo Grazioli villa in Rome, where 74-year-old Berlusconi soon targeted her.

Tommasi, who is not a hooker …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India to reduce GDP emission intensity by 20 percent by 2020: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Thursday said that India is set to reduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 20 per cent between 2005 and 2020.

Addressing at the 11th Delhi Sustainable Development Summit here, Dr. Singh said: “

We are also taking action on our own in the form of a …. Original source  : India to reduce GDP emission intensity by 20 percent by 2020: Manmohan Singh.

Gilani forces Sherry Rehman to withdraw Pak blasphemy law amendment bill

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan parliamentarian Sherry Rehman will withdraw the bill seeking amendments to the country’s blasphemy law as per the party’s directions, Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said.

In November 2010, Rehman had submitted a private member bill in the National Assembly Secretariat seeking amendments to soften Pakistan’s controversial blasphemy law after a Pakistani …. Original source  : Gilani forces Sherry Rehman to withdraw Pak blasphemy law amendment bill.

Five dead, 800 injured as gunfire echoes in Cairo (Second Lead)

CAIRO – Gunfire rang out across ground zero Tahrir Square Thursday as clashes between government supporters and protesters demanding the ouster of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak escalated, leaving five dead and 800 injured with no ambulances in sight and a makeshift clinic trying desperately to tend to the wounded.

The running clashes took place …. Source article  : Five dead, 800 injured as gunfire echoes in Cairo (Second Lead).

Mayawati’s visit leaves Agra disappointed

AGRA – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati came and she saw, but there was little of the action people were expecting against government functionaries in the build-up to the visit.

After much hype and panic in government departments, Mayawati spent around two hours in Agra Wednesday evening to inspect a couple of projects.
“Actually, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mayawati’s visit leaves Agra disappointed.

Sri Lankans have contributed to US culture: Clinton

COLOMBO – Sri Lankans have made several “positive contributions to American culture”, said US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on the eve of Sri Lanka’s Independence Day anniversary.

Sri Lanka will celebrate its 63rd anniversary of independence Friday.
Clinton said: “Since Sri Lanka’s independence, our two countries have had a strong relationship based on mutual … Read more »».

Berlusconi to face charges ‘most likely on Monday or Tuesday’

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is set to face charges as soon as possible for allegedly paying an underage prostitute for sex, prosecutors have said.

Milan’s chief prosecutor, Edmondo Bruti Liberati, who has overseen the investigation into Berlusconi, said a request for an immediate indictment would be submitted to a judge “most likely on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Italian MP caught ogling at escort website on his iPad during debate

LONDON – One of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s MPs has been caught looking at escort girls on his newly issued government iPad while attending a debate in parliament.

Simeone di Cagno Abbrescia, 66, was photographed ogling several scantily-clad women offering their services for 1,000 pounds per night during a crucial no confidence vote last week, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Italian MP caught ogling at escort website on his iPad during debate.

A. Raja Arrested

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Former telecommunication minister of India and member of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party, A. Raja has been arrested on Wednesday. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) reported that they have arrested the former telecommunication minister as a part of their investigation for a multi-billion corruption scandal (the 2G spectrum scam). R.K. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A. Raja Arrested.

US welcomes emerging India’s role in Asia Pacific

WASHINGTON – The US welcomes India’s greater involvement in East Asia and is committed to working with New Delhi as it increases ties with US allies in Southeast Asia and Japan, a senior US official has said.

“Ultimately, we think that India’s role in the Asian-Pacific region stands to be one of the most important … Read : US welcomes emerging India’s role in Asia Pacific.

Gunfire in Cairo as clashes leave five dead, 600 injured

CAIRO – Shots rang out Thursday in Cairo’s Tahrir Square as violent clashes broke out between anti- and pro-Hosni Mubarak protesters leaving five people dead and over 600 injured.

The running clashes took place for over 12 hours with daybreak witnessing an escalation in the deteriorating situation as gunfire was being heard in this … Read more : Gunfire in Cairo as clashes leave five dead, 600 injured.

Kashmir governor returns information commissioner’s file

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra has returned the file appointing income tax officer G.R. Sufi as the state’s chief information commissioner (CIC) because it did not have the clearance of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).

Sufi, an income tax officer, was recommended for the post last week by a panel headed by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kashmir governor returns information commissioner’s file.

Violence against Egyptian protesters draws condemnation

Cairo, Feb 3 (IANS/AKI) Amnesty International has criticised the Egyptian army for failing to protect anti-government protesters who reportedly came under attack in Cairo from supporters of President Hosni Mubarak.

Many protesters calling on Mubarak to resign were reported to have been injured in the clashes.
“The army has failed in its commitment to … Read more >>.

Message from the President on the New START Treaty

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:
I have considered the United States Senate's December 22, 2010, Resolution of Advice and Consent to Ratification of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Message from the President on the New START Treaty.

Letter from the President on the New START Treaty

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For Immediate Release

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT TO THE CHAIRMEN AND RANKING MEMBERS OF THE SENATE COMMITTEES ON FOREIGN RELATIONS AND ARMED SERVICES

February 2, … Read more : Letter from the President on the New START Treaty.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

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For Immediate Release

Paul A. Engelmayer, of New York, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York, vice Gerard E. Lynch, elevated.
 
Arvo [..] Read the original article: here.

Chidambaram’s visit raises hope of roadmap for Kashmir

JAMMU – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Friday indicated the central government will speed up the process to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir crisis once it receives a final report of the three interlocutors, official sources said.

Chidambaram, who concluded a two-day visit to the state, reviewed the security situation in the mountainous districts of Jammu …. Original article  : Chidambaram’s visit raises hope of roadmap for Kashmir.

Egypt’s defence minister inspects Tahrir Square

CAIRO – Egypt’s Defence Minister Mohamed Hussein Tantawi and commanders of the Egyptian army Friday inspected Cairo’s Tahrir Square, a media report said.

Thousands of Egyptians are congregating at the square to hold protests against Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, Xinhua quoted state Nile News TV reported.
There has been tension since Friday morning at the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt’s defence minister inspects Tahrir Square.

Probe sought into disrupted assembly telecast

PANAJI – Goa Speaker Pratapsing Rane Friday asked Chief Minister Digambar Kamat to initiate a police probe into the blackout of live assembly transmissions by a section of cable TV operators.

Speaking during zero hour, Rane said the live telecast was intended to inform the people of what their legislators were doing in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Probe sought into disrupted assembly telecast.

Manmohan Singh congratulates new PM of Nepal

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has congratulated Jhalanath Khanal on his election as Nepal’s new Prime Minister.

Dr. Singh spoke to Prime Minister Khanal last evening to convey his felicitations.

Dr. Singh has also written to Prime Minister-elect Khanal to convey his heartiest congratulations on latter’s election as the Prime Minister of Nepal, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh congratulates new PM of Nepal.

Manmohan Singh suggests procedures to end corruption

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday said that it is necessary to fast-tracked administrative practices and procedures to tackle the problem of corruption.

Addressing the 2nd Annual Conference of Chief Secretaries of States here, Dr. Singh said: Corruption strikes at the roots of good governance. It is an impediment to faster …. Source article  : Manmohan Singh suggests procedures to end corruption.

Mulayam Singh flays Mayawati for targeting party supporters

LUCKNOW – Samajwadi Party President Mulayam Singh Yadav has cautioned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati for her alleged pick and choose approach in targeting his party supporters and sending them to jail.

Addressing mediapersons here on Thursday, Mulayam Singh warned that Mayawati herself may have to face similar situation …. Original source  : Mulayam Singh flays Mayawati for targeting party supporters.

Protests against price rise in Visakhapatnam

VISAKHAPATNAM – Political parties including Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Communist Party of India (CPI) and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) have called for a state-wide protest against inflation in Visakhapatnam.

They took the protest to the streets with effigies of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh outside the Collectorate office here.

“At the time of drought, we had …. Source article  : Protests against price rise in Visakhapatnam.

Myanmar parliament selects ex-general as president

YANGON – Myanmar’s parliament Friday elected former army general Thein Sein as the country’s president, giving him the power to select a cabinet and head a powerful new security council.

Thein Sein, 65, is also chairman in military-run Myanmar of the pro-junta Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), which won 77 percent of the contested … Read more »».

Inflation poses serious threat to growth momentum: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday said India’s high inflation posed a “serious threat” to the country’s growth momentum, and was driven by supply-side shortages.

Addressing the 2nd Annual Conference of Chief Secretaries of States here, Dr. Singh said: “Our economy has been on a high growth trajectory for the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Inflation poses serious threat to growth momentum: Manmohan Singh.

Berlusconi wins brief respite from sex scandals

WELLINGTON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi won some brief respite from the sex scandals when parliament denied prosecutors’ request to search some of his properties.

In a much-needed victory for the embattled leader, parliament on Thursday rejected the prosecution requests in a 315-298 vote that came after a four-hour debate in the lower house, reports … Read : Berlusconi wins brief respite from sex scandals.

Tense Cairo braces for Mubarak’s `day of departure’

CAIRO – Defiant protesters prepared for massive protests Friday — a day they call the “day of departure” for Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak who is facing his worst crisis after 30 years of rule.

Some opposition groups plan to intensify protests to force Mubarak to quit Friday, Xinhua and other media organisations reported.
In a … Original article on : Tense Cairo braces for Mubarak’s `day of departure’.

New Nepal PM likely to be sworn in Sunday

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s new Prime Minister-elect Jhalanath Khanal, who won a three-cornered election Thursday with the support of the opposition Maoists, is likely to be sworn in Sunday along with a mini cabinet, his communist party said.

The 61-year-old former school teacher, who becomes Nepal’s ninth prime minister in nine years, will take oath of …. Original article  : New Nepal PM likely to be sworn in Sunday.

Benazir Bhutto’s BlackBerry phones found

ISLAMABAD – Investigators probing the assassination of former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto said they have found two BlackBerry mobile phones belonging to the slain leader.

Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has recovered the phones from a servant at Bhutto’s family residence in Karachi, the Dawn reported Friday.
The phones were used by Abdul Razzaq, …. Source article  : Benazir Bhutto’s BlackBerry phones found.

Corruption dents India’s global image: PM

NEW DELHI – Expressing concern over the “menace” of corruption in the wake of a series of scams, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday said it demeans and dents India’s image.

“Corruption strikes at the roots of good governance. It is an impediment to faster growth. It dilutes, if not negates, our efforts at social inclusion. …. Source article  : Corruption dents India’s global image: PM.

Poet Dinkar’s family alleges threats from Sushil Modi’s nephew

PATNA – The family of Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, popularly known as ‘rashtra kavi’ or national poet, is running from pillar to post for justice alleging that Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi’s nephew is refusing to vacate a portion of their home and is threatening them.

Dinkar’s 80-year-old daughter-in-law Hemant Devi and grandson Arvind … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Poet Dinkar’s family alleges threats from Sushil Modi’s nephew.

US plans for Mubarak’s immediate exit

WASHINGTON – The US is holding discussions with Egyptian officials on a proposal for President Hosni Mubarak to resign immediately and hand over power to a transitional government that would be supported by the military, officials said.

The Barack Obama administration is working on the proposal for Mubarak to quit now and turn over power … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US plans for Mubarak’s immediate exit.

UN hails end of crisis in Nepal

KATHMANDU – The UN has hailed the end of the seven-month political crisis in Nepal with the election of a new prime minister Thursday, urging the premier-elect not to fail the May 28 deadline for promulgating a new constitution.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the election of Jhalanath Khanal, chairman of the Communist Party of …. Original source  : UN hails end of crisis in Nepal.

Chidambaram, Omar agree to push Kashmir peace roadmap

JAMMU – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Friday and the two agreed to draw up a roadmap for lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir. The former then reviewed the security situation in Kishtwar.

Abdullah hosted an hour-long breakfast meeting with the visiting home minister who is on a two-day visit … Read : Chidambaram, Omar agree to push Kashmir peace roadmap.

Jhalanath Khanal elected new Prime Minister of Nepal

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s Parliament has elected CPN (UML) chairman Jhalanath Khanal as the 34th Prime Minister, ending the six-month long stalemate.

The breakthrough came after opposition Unified CPN (Maoist) withdrew its Chairman Prachanda from the electoral race and decided to vote for Khanal.

He secured 368 votes, more than the simple majority required in the … Original article on : Jhalanath Khanal elected new Prime Minister of Nepal.

Mubarak’s net worth estimated at $40-70 bn

CAIRO – The net worth of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, who is under pressure to quit following a massive mass movement, and his family is estimated to between $40 billion to $70 billion, a media report said.

ABC News quoted experts as saying that the Mubarak family wealth was built largely from military contracts during … Original article on : Mubarak’s net worth estimated at $40-70 bn.

Living in Cairo square, scripting a revolution

CAIRO/NEW DELHI – The sprawling ground is overflowing with people filled with hatred for Hosni Mubarak. Thousands have made it their home. The food is free. The anger palpable. Welcome to Cairo’s Tahrir Square, the epicentre of massive protests to oust the Egyptian president.

Even as the anti-Mubarak campaign entered the 12th day Saturday, with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Telangana groups to launch non-cooperation movement Feb 17

HYDERABAD – Parties and groups fighting for separate statehood to Telangana Saturday announced that they will launch a non-cooperation movement from Feb 17 to press for the introduction of a bill during the budget session of parliament.

Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other constituents of Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC), organizations … Read more : Telangana groups to launch non-cooperation movement Feb 17.

League attacks Kerala chief minister’s office

KOZHIKODE – The Indian Union Muslim League Saturday accused the Kerala chief minister’s office of conspiring to rake up the ice cream parlour sex scandal case in which the party’s leader P.K. Kunhalikutty was involved.

We have evidence to prove that a conspiracy was hatched in the office of Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan …. Source  : League attacks Kerala chief minister’s office.

Orissa minister resigns over pulses scam

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa’s Woman and Child Development Minister Pramila Mallik Saturday resigned over a scandal involving irregularities in the supply of pulses to children.

Mallik submitted her resignation after coming under attack from not only the opposition Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party but also from some ruling Biju Janata Dal leaders.
She submitted her …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Orissa minister resigns over pulses scam.

Sonia Gandhi hears public grievances in Rae Bareli

RAE BARELI – Congress president Sonia Gandhi was flooded with public complaints when hundreds of locals in her parliamentary constituency Rae Bareli discussed their grievances with her here Saturday, a party official said.

“Around 1,000 locals met Sonia Gandhi with their complaints and problems,” Congress spokesperson in Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Pratap Singh told reporters. The … Read more »»».

After one-day cricket, come one-day polls in Goa

PANAJI – For the first time in India, elections to a municipal corporation body will be virtually conducted on the lines of a one-day cricket match. Both voting as well as counting will be completed within a day, an official said.

To complete the effect, Goa’s Election Commissioner M. Modassir said the results would be … Read this article on Gaea Times at : After one-day cricket, come one-day polls in Goa.

General Vang Pao Funeral Rejected At Arlington National Cemetery

FRESNO (GaeaTimes.com)- Thousands of mourners paid their last tribute to General Vang Pao at the first day of his six-day long funeral. However, the mourners were angered when the U. S. army announced that the General will not be given full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. General Vang Pao passed away on January … Read more : General Vang Pao Funeral Rejected At Arlington National Cemetery.

India, Pakistan to hold exploratory talks in Thimphu

NEW DELHI – The foreign secretaries of India and Pakistan are set to meet Sunday in the Bhutanese capital in what is seen as an “exploratory mission” by New Delhi to revive the dialogue process that is stalled over two years after the Mumbai terrorist attack.

Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao Saturday flew to Thimphu for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJP faces tough fight in Chhattisgarh by-poll

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is facing a tough challenge from the Congress to retain the Sanjari Balod assembly seat in the Feb 14 by-election.

The Congress lost the Sanjari Balod seat in Durg district by a few hundred votes in November 2008 to BJP’s Madanlal Sahu, who died following cardiac arrest … Original article on : BJP faces tough fight in Chhattisgarh by-poll.

How to size up the crowd – a lesson in Cairo

CAIRO/WASHINGTON – Just how many protesters are there in Cairo’s Tahrir square? Media accounts vary enormously. The crowd estimates depend on rough calculations, including one developed by a former reporter about 45 years ago.

Assessing crowd strength, even in this age of satellite imagery, continues to be a rough science. This was evident during demonstrations …. Original source  : How to size up the crowd – a lesson in Cairo.

Failed multiculturalism behind rise of Muslim radicalisation in Britain: Cameron

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron would reportedly criticise “state multiculturalism” in his first speech on radicalisation and would emphasise on the need of a stronger national identity to stop young Muslims being radicalised and tempted into terrorism.

Different cultures are encouraged to live apart, and objectionable views met with “passive tolerance”, he will … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Failed multiculturalism behind rise of Muslim radicalisation in Britain: Cameron.

Cynthia Stroum Criticized

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Cynthia Stroum, the former U. S. Ambassador has been blamed for under-performance while she was serving her post. The ex-Ambassador resigned from her post in January 31 and just after a week State Department officials have issued a report where it is stated that Cynthia Stroum’s management style was “confrontational” and hence … Original article on : Cynthia Stroum Criticized.

Mamata meets Pranab Mukherjee, discuss budget session strategy

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee called on Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee at the latter’s residence late on Friday evening.

The two leaders talked for around 45 minutes. During the meeting, Mukherjee sought help from the Trinamool chief in the smooth conduct of business in the coming budget session of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mamata meets Pranab Mukherjee, discuss budget session strategy.

Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei praises unrest in Egypt, Tunisia

Tehran, Feb 5 (IANS/AKI) Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has praised the uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia, stating they resembled his own country’s revolution.

“Today, developments…in Egypt, Tunisia and some other countries have a special meaning for the Iranian nation,” AKI reported Khamenei as saying during a Friday prayer sermon, in a report on …. Source article  : Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei praises unrest in Egypt, Tunisia.

Protesters stand their ground in Cairo square

CAIRO – Defiant protesters continued to camp in Cairo’s Tahrir Square to seek the ouster of Hosni Mubarak, a day after tens of thousands of Egyptians held a “day of departure” for their president who has ruled for the past 30 years.

Demonstrators stood their ground in Tahrir Square, the focal point of the unrest …. Original source  : Protesters stand their ground in Cairo square.

Obama stops short of asking Mubarak to quit

WASHINGTON – Short of asking embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to quit, President Barack Obama has served notice on a key ally that the transition of power “must begin now” and lead to “free and fair elections.

Talks between he Egyptian government and its political opponents were in the initial stages, he noted Friday but … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama stops short of asking Mubarak to quit.

Anti-government protests in Morocco planned on Facebook

Rabat, Feb 5 (IANS/AKI) Moroccan authorities have okayed an anti-government protest being planned on the popular social networking site Facebook, a media report said.

The media report said several Moroccan youth movements have announced on Facebook that they are planning to organise an Egypt-style anti-government protest Feb 20, a move apparently welcomed by the government. …. Source  : Anti-government protests in Morocco planned on Facebook.

Biden calls Manmohan, reaffirms US commitment to partnership

WASHINGTON – Amidst the crisis in Egypt, US Vice President Joe Biden spoke with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and “reaffirmed the US commitment to building a global, strategic partnership with India.”

There weren’t many details available or if the call Friday was related to Egypt with a short White House readout only saying they …. Source article  : Biden calls Manmohan, reaffirms US commitment to partnership.

Raja’s arrest should be first step in cleaning the system (Comment)

Andimuthu Raja’s rise and fall underline the triumph and tragedy of Indian democracy. The ascent of this 47-year-old from an ordinary Dalit family in rural Tamil Nadu to be a cabinet minister at the centre points to the opportunities which the electoral system provides to people at all levels. At the same time, his incarceration …. Original article  : Raja’s arrest should be first step in cleaning the system (Comment).

Tamil diaspora marks Sri Lanka independence day as black day

TORONTO – The Tamil diaspora in Canada marked Sri Lanka’s independence day Friday as a “black day” by wearing black badges.

“We join the Tamils back home in marking this day as a black day. The Tamil diaspora all over the world is mourning this day as a black day,” said David Poopalapillai, national spokesperson …. Source  : Tamil diaspora marks Sri Lanka independence day as black day.

Legal order must constantly adapt itself to change: Manmohan Singh

HYDERABAD – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Sunday said developing countries needed a legal system that is conducive to rapid economic development and one that had a built-in mechanism to promote equitable distribution of gains from development.

Inaugurating the 17th Commonwealth Law Conference here, Dr. Singh said: … Read more : Legal order must constantly adapt itself to change: Manmohan Singh.

Tale of two Thomases (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – Why is the UPA government in no hurry to ask controversial Central Vigilance Commissioner P.J. Thomas to resign? One version is because of electoral calculations in Kerala, where the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is expected to make a comeback in the assembly polls due in May.

Thomas belongs to the Syro-Malabar …. Source  : Tale of two Thomases (Capital Buzz).

Thai prime minister defends army’s actions in border battle

BANGKOK – Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva insisted Sunday Thai troops were not to blame for deadly border skirmishes with Cambodia, as a fragile truce held along a strip of disputed land.

“I confirm that Thailand did not invade Cambodian territory,” Abhisit said. “But we reserve our right to protect our sovereignty in an appropriate way.”
…. Read the original article  : Thai prime minister defends army’s actions in border battle.

Hasina may induct veterans in cabinet

DHAKA – Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina may induct Awami League veterans to add experience and give a fresh look to her team in a mid-term cabinet reshuffle, a media report said Sunday.

She also hopes to respond to criticism from opposition parties and the vocal middle class over rising prices, power shortage and charges … Original article on : Hasina may induct veterans in cabinet.

Yamini Roy To Wear Indira Gandhi’s Saree

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- BJP MP Varun Gandhi is all set to tie the knot with Bengali beauty Yamini Roy. As the couple readies to take the wedding vows on March 6, it has come up that the soon to be Gandhi daughter-in-law will wear a saree on the auspicious occasion that belonged to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yamini Roy To Wear Indira Gandhi’s Saree.

Marxists publish book to woo masses in poll year

KOLKATA – In an apparent bid to woo the masses in an election year, West Bengal’s ruling Marxists have brought out a 728-page book on the state’s left movement and the Left Front government.

At a time when they are going through perhaps their toughest times since coming to power nearly 34 years ago, the … Read more »».

Veteran industrialist calls on PM to tackle corruption, other major issues

NEW DELHI/BANGALORE – In an open letter to the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, Dr. Sitaram Jindal, Chairman and Managing Director of Jindal Aluminium Ltd., has appealed to him to end what he termed the “miserable quality of governance” that prevails in the country.

Hoping that the letter would once again ignite a patriotic feeling among …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Veteran industrialist calls on PM to tackle corruption, other major issues.

Burdwan residents protest against police atrocities

BURDWAN – Scores of locals staged a protest here on Saturday against the torching of an office of the regional Trinamool Congress (TMC) party, allegedly perpetrated by the security personnel.

The protests began soon after police conducted massive raids in crime-infested areas across Burdwan District.

Residents asserted that the TMC office was burnt down during a police …. Original article  : Burdwan residents protest against police atrocities.

Kashmir gets CVC clearance for information commissioner

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government has received the clearance from the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) for the appointment of an income tax officer as the state’s first chief information commissioner (CIC), an official said Sunday.

A panel headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had recommended G.R. Sufi’s name for appointment as the CIC …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kashmir gets CVC clearance for information commissioner.

Egyptian government to hold talks with opposition group

CAIRO – The Egyptian government will hold talks with the Muslim Brotherhood, after the opposition group agreed to a dialogue with Vice President Omar Suleiman in a bid to end the country’s political turmoil, officials said.

Suleiman will meet members of Muslim Brotherhood Sunday, officials from the brotherhood told reporters.
The topics will be …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Egyptian government to hold talks with opposition group.

We are worried about any change in Egypt: Shimon Peres

JERUSALEM – Israeli President Shimon Peres Saturday expressed concern about the changes that the revolts in Egypt may bring to the Middle East.

“We are very worried about having any change in a government, or in the system of elections,” Peres said.
“If the Muslim Brotherhood are elected (in Egypt), they will not bring peace,” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : We are worried about any change in Egypt: Shimon Peres.

US presses Egypt on transition

WASHINGTON – The US continued to press Egypt on the need for an “orderly, peaceful transition” as President Barack Obama discussed the situation with other world leaders while Vice President Joe Biden telephoned his Egyptian counterpart Omar Suleiman.

Obama called German Chancellor Angela Merkel, British Prime Minister David Cameron and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed … Read more : US presses Egypt on transition.

Shake-up in Egypt’s ruling party after top leadership quits

CAIRO – Egypt’s ruling party announced a major shake-up Saturday with several top leaders resigning – but President Hosni Mubarak showed no signs of relinquishing power despite a 12th straight day of protests.

Gamal Mubarak, the son of the embattled president, resigned from his job as a political head of the ruling National Democratic Party [..] Read the original article: here.

Al-Arabiya retracts report of Mubarak resigning party post

CAIRO – Broadcaster al-Arabiya late Saturday retracted an earlier report that Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak had resigned his post as chairman of the ruling National Democratic Party.
Read more »».

EU freezes assets of 48 members of Ben Ali’s clan

BRUSSELS – The European Union announced Saturday that it was freezing the assets of 48 members of Tunisia’s former ruling clan, including ousted president Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali and his wife Leila Trabelsi.

Ben Ali fled to Saudi Arabia Jan 14 following a month-long popular revolt. His family and relatives have been accused of siphoning …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : EU freezes assets of 48 members of Ben Ali’s clan.

Mubarak quits as ruling party chief, protesters seek his exit (Intro-Roundup)

CAIRO/WASHINGTON – Embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Saturday night quit as the ruling party chief, but the tens of thousands gathered at Cairo’s Tahrir Square stayed put demanding his immediate ouster.

Under intense pressure from the US to make way for a new regime and free and fair elections, the president of three decades put …. Source  : Mubarak quits as ruling party chief, protesters seek his exit (Intro-Roundup).

Mubarak resigns as ruling party chief

CAIRO – Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Saturday stepped down as chairman of the country’s ruling party, as the mass uprising against his three-decade-old rule entered the 12th day.

Mubarak stepped down along with the rest of his National Democratic Party’s (NDP) top leaders, Al Jazeera reported citing state television, as as tens of thousands …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mubarak quits as ruling party chief

CAIRO – Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak Saturday stepped down as chairman of the country’s ruling party, bowing to the protesters’ demand for the end of his 30-year rule.

Mubarak stepped down along with the rest of the National Democratic Party’s (NDP) top leadership, as tens of thousands of protesters are standing their ground in Cairo’s … Read : Mubarak quits as ruling party chief.

South Korea seeks to improve ties with UAE

Abu Dhabi, Feb 5 (IANS/WAM) South Korean Foreign Minister Kim Sung-hwan visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Saturday to discuss ways to bolster relationship between the two countries.

Ahead of his meeting with UAE Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sung-hwan said the two countries are committed to bolster their political, economic and cultural … Read more : South Korea seeks to improve ties with UAE.

CPI-M to probe allegations against senior party leader

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Saturday ordered a probe by a two-member panel against the allegations against P. Sasi, a member of the state committee and former political secretary to erstwhile chief minister E.K. Nayanar during 1996-2001.

The name of Sasi, the Kannur district party secretary till end of last year until …. Read the original article  : here.

Protesters stay in Cairo square

CAIRO – Groups of protesters remained in Cairo’s central Tahrir Square Monday morning, hundreds having camped out over-night, a day after some opposition groups began their first talks with the government.

The banned Muslim Brotherhood participated in the talks, and while admitting it was just a beginning they also insisted that no substantive concessions … Original article on : Protesters stay in Cairo square.

PRP’s merger with Congress may benefit TDP, Jagan (News Analysis)

HYDERABAD – The merger of Telugu superstar K. Chiranjeevi’s Praja Rajyam Party (PRP) with the ruling Congress in Andhra Pradesh has changed political equations in the state that has been witnessing instability for more than a year.

This development will bring some clarity to the hazy political scenario in the state but is also likely … Read this article on Gaea Times at : PRP’s merger with Congress may benefit TDP, Jagan (News Analysis).

Son denies misuse of land of Chandra Shekhar trust

NEW DELHI – Neeraj Shekhar, son of former prime minister Chandra Shekhar, has said that the Bharat Yatra Trust set up by his father would never lease out its properties to private groups.

Neeraj Shekhar told IANS that there was no attempt to encash on the appreciating real estate value of the hundreds of acres …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Son denies misuse of land of Chandra Shekhar trust.

Swamy seeks Karunanidhi’s prosecution for land allotment

CHENNAI – Janata Party president Subramanian Swamy Monday sought the Tamil Nadu governor’s sanction for prosecution of Chief Minister M. Karuananidhi for alleged irregularities in land allotment.

Swamy handed over his petition seeking permission to prosecute DMK chief Karunanidhi to Governor Surjit Singh Barnala’s aid de camp (ADC) Monday afternoon.
Speaking to reporters outside Raj …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Swamy seeks Karunanidhi’s prosecution for land allotment.

Venkaiah Naidu slams Congress over Telecom scam probe

CHENNAI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Venkaiah Naidu has expressed concern on the magnitude of corruption exposed in the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

Talking to reporters here on Sunday, Naidu critised Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal for arguing no loss had been caused to the exchequer by the telecom scam.

“Mr. Kapil Sibal has acted against …. Original source  : Venkaiah Naidu slams Congress over Telecom scam probe.

Pak govt. seriously implementing 10-point reforms agenda: Gilani

LAHORE – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said his government is seriously implementing the 10-point reforms agenda given by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) last month.

“We agreed to the 10-point agenda only after weighing all its aspects,” the Dawn quoted Gilani, as saying.

“As some of the points require just administrative decisions, we …. Read the original article  : Pak govt. seriously implementing 10-point reforms agenda: Gilani.

Manmohan Singh emphasises need for bold initiatives for development

HYDERABAD – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, on Monday said constitutional democracy that provides socio- political and economic justice to all, would be the best choice for emerging economies.

Addressing legal luminaries after inaugurating the 17th Commonwealth Law Conference in Hyderabad, Dr. Singh said: ” Considering the reality and scale of conflict, deprivation and … Read more : Manmohan Singh emphasises need for bold initiatives for development.

Swamy to seek governor’s sanction to prosecute Karunanidhi

CHENNAI – Janata Party president Subramanian Swamy Monday said he would seek Tamil Nadu Governor Surjit Singh Barnala’s sanction to prosecute Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi for alleged misuse of office to allot land.

“The governor has given me time to meet this afternoon. I will be seeking his sanction to prosecute Karunanidhi for misusing … Original article on : Swamy to seek governor’s sanction to prosecute Karunanidhi.

Thousands of Thais flee fighting on border with Cambodia

BANGKOK/PHNOM PENH – Thousands of Thai civilians Monday fled fighting between Thai and Cambodian troops in an intensified border dispute that has raised calls for international intervention.

Renewed fighting broke out Sunday evening in Thailand’s Si Sa Ket province and Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province, about 450 kilometres north-east of Bangkok.
Fourteen Thai soldiers …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Thousands of Thais flee fighting on border with Cambodia.

Wills will make a fantastic husband, wonderful king, says David Cameron

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron is confident that Prince William will make a “fantastic husband” and a “wonderful king”.

Cameron said he had found the Prince to be “a remarkable young man” after spending time with him in Zurich for England’s recent failed bid to host the World Cup.

The PM said he was confident [..] Read the original article: here.

New Nepal PM agreed to quit May 24: Report

KATHMANDU – Instead of stabilising Nepal’s turbulent political situation after a seven-month-long vacuum, the election of a new prime minister has stirred up further turmoil amid reports about a secret pact between the ruling party and the former Maoist insurgents.

Jhala Nath Khanal, chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist, who was admitted … Read : New Nepal PM agreed to quit May 24: Report.

Malaysian PM says Egyptian-style protests won’t work

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has warned against any attempt to usurp power in Malaysia through demonstrations like those in Egypt.

Dont think that what is happening there must also happen in Malaysia. We will not allow it to happen here, he said Sunday.
He did not address his warning to … Read more >>.

‘Berlusconi’s naked pics up for grabs for 1m’pound

LONDON – Compromising pictures of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi are apparently on sale for one million pounds.

Reports in Italian media said that the photographs showed Berlusconi naked in the company of the women and that magazines had refused to publish them as they were taken ‘inside his private property.’

However, Berlusconi’s legal team Niccolo Ghedini … Read more »».

Missing Google executive in Egypt to be released

CAIRO/WASHINGTON – A senior Google executive, who mysteriously went missing over a week ago after emerging as a key figure in the Egypt protests against the 30-year rule of President Hosni Mubarak, is going to be released Monday, his family said.

Wael Ghonim, who is in his 30s, is a political activist and Google’s top …. Original source  : Missing Google executive in Egypt to be released.

Manmohan Singh to dedicate new Kerala port to nation on Feb.11

VALLARPADOM – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will dedicate the

International Container Trans-shipment Terminal (ICTT) at Valarpadom, Kerala, to the nation on February 11.

The new port, which will be privately operated by Dubai Port World, has been facing constraints in the form of protests and strikes by major trade unions of the existing [..] Read the original article: here.

UN chief calls for ending Cambodia, Thailand hostilities

UNITED NATIONS – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has asked Cambodia and Thailand to make “an effective arrangement” to end hostilities and “exercise maximum restraint”.

“The secretary-general is deeply concerned by reports of repeated armed clashes…between Cambodia and Thailand around their common border area, which has reportedly claimed a number of lives and led to the … Original article on : UN chief calls for ending Cambodia, Thailand hostilities.

Man throws shoe at Pervez Musharraf

LONDON – A man threw a shoe at former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf when he was addressing a gathering here Sunday. The shoe didn’t hit the former military dictator, it was reported here.

Geo News reported that the shoe fell in the front rows and didn’t reach the stage.
Security personnel quickly nabbed the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Man throws shoe at Pervez Musharraf.

Obama: Egypt has changed forever

WASHINGTON – As the standoff between prodemocracy protesters and embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak continued, US President Barack Obama said that he believed that Egypt had changed forever.

In an interview with Fox News Sunday, Obama stopped short of saying when – or if – Mubarak would step down, but said he couldn’t predict … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama: Egypt has changed forever.

Obama wants ‘representative government in Egypt’

WASHINGTON – The outcome of the ongoing unrest in Egypt is not a choice only between Islamist militants and the security of a dictatorship, US President Barack Obama said.

In a live interview with Fox Television Sunday evening, shortly before the network broadcast the annual Super Bowl of American football, Obama was asked about the … Read : Obama wants ‘representative government in Egypt’.

Andhra CM welcomes Praja Rajyam-Congress merger

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy on Sunday welcomed the merger between Praja Rajyam Party and the Congress party.

The merger was formalised on Sunday afternoon after a 15-minute meeting between PRP leader and Telugu actor Chiranjeevi and Congress … Read more »».

No ’security’ help for my brief case, tweets Abdullah

JAMMU – Amid reports that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati’s security guards were seen shining her shoes, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said Tuesday that he would not let his security guards carry his briefcase.

Omar wrote on micro-bogging site Twitter: “I won’t let my security chaps carry my briefcase, but I guess …. Read the original article  : here.

Congress workers await leaders in by-polls campaign

BHOPAL – The Congress is yet to field its top leaders in the campaign for by-elections to two Madhya Pradesh assembly seats Feb 14, where vote hunting has entered the final stage.

With less then a week before polls in Kukshi and Sonkatch constituencies, both held by Congress, party workers are still waiting for senior … Read more >>>.

No decision yet on S-band allocation: PMO

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Tuesday said the government has not taken any decision on the spectrum allocation of radio waves used for satellite communication, amid reports that such a deal between the Indian space agency’s commercial arm and a private company has caused the nation an estimated loss of Rs.2 lakh … Original source on Gaea Times at : No decision yet on S-band allocation: PMO.

Government makes fresh bid to break parliament stalemate

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee will Tuesday meet leaders of all political parties in a renewed effort ahead of the budget session to resolve the deadlock over the opposition’s demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam.

Mukherjee called for the all-party meeting to ensure that the crucial … Read more »».

SAARC countries pledge to combat terrorism, human trafficking

THIMPHU – Bhutanese Prime Minister Lyonchhoen Jigmi Y. Thinley today said that the member countries of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) would work together to stamp out terrorism, human trafficking and poverty from the sub-continental region.

Speaking at the inauguration of the SAARC Foreign Ministers meeting, Thinley said efforts of the past decades were …. Read the original article  : SAARC countries pledge to combat terrorism, human trafficking.

Australian PM fights tears, pays tribute to flood victims

SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard Tuesday choked back tears on the floor of federal parliament while paying tribute to the victims of the Queensland floods.

Recalling the bravery of victims, including 13-year-old Jordan Rice – who insisted rescuers to save his 10-year-old brother Blake before him – the prime minister said, the …. Original source  : Australian PM fights tears, pays tribute to flood victims.

US official in India to push defence sales

WASHINGTON – With the US seeking to significantly increase its defence sales to India, a senior defence official is joining Commerce Secretary Gary Locke on his visit there.

Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs Andrew J. Shapiro will be in India Feb 8-11 “to build on the achievements of President (Barack) Obama’s November trip”, …. Read the original article  : US official in India to push defence sales.

Angelo Reyes Commits Suicide

MARINIKA, PHILLIPINES (GaeaTimes.com)- Former Energy Chief and Defense secretary, Angelo Reyes reportedly committed suicide, today early in the morning. The reason behind his death is still unknown. The 65 year old politician reportedly went to visit the grave of his mother, early this Tuesday, where he decided to land a gun shot right on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Luxury German clinic being considered for Mubarak

LONDON – A German luxury clinic that offers “comfort and service of a top hotel” is being considered for embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak who is under intense pressure to quit, a media report said.

The move to Germany is part of an exit strategy being worked out for Mubarak who has ruled Egypt since …. Source  : Luxury German clinic being considered for Mubarak.

Egypt faces a ‘bumpy’ transition: US

WASHINGTON – The US has signalled its backing for a more deliberate approach to political negotiations in Egypt with White House saying its key ally faces a “bumpy” process in its transition to a multiparty democracy.

Even as he repeated the US insistence on meaningful change in Egypt, White House press secretary Robert Gibbs Monday … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egypt faces a ‘bumpy’ transition: US.

Mafia ‘possess compromising Berlusconi photos’

LONDON – Mafia gangsters claim to possess compromising photos of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi at wild ‘bunga bunga’ sex parties, a leading Italian photographer has claimed.

Fabrizio Corona, who is known as the ‘king of the paparazzi,’ has claimed that members of the Camorra mafia in Naples are trying to sell the alleged images to [..] Read the original article: here.

Obama sees progress in Egypt

WASHINGTON – Egypt is making progress in resolving its political crisis as talks between the government and opposition groups were underway, US President Barack Obama said Monday.

“Obviously Egypt has to negotiate a path and they’re making progress,” Obama told reporters after delivering a speech to the business community in Washington. He did not elaborate.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama sees progress in Egypt.

Readout of President Obama’s Call to Green Bay Packers Coach Mike McCarthy

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This afternoon, President Obama called Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy to congratulate him and the team on their Super Bowl victory.  The … Read more : Readout of President Obama’s Call to Green Bay Packers Coach Mike McCarthy.

NOMINATION SENT TO THE SENATE

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Suzan D. Johnson Cook, of New York, to be Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, vice John V. Hanford III, resigned.(Originally nominated on …. Read the original article  : NOMINATION SENT TO THE SENATE.

Presidential Memorandum???National Defense Authorization Act

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Attached is a memorandum from the President to the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Energy regarding the annual update to the Report …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Memorandum–National Defense Authorization Act.

Letter from the President on High Performance Computer Exports

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Attached is the text of a letter from the President on high performance computer exports.

LINK (www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/2011teraflops.idl_.rel_.pdf)

…. Original article  : Letter from the President on High Performance Computer Exports.

CORRECTED: Statement by the President on the Intent to Recognize Southern Sudan

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On behalf of the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Southern Sudan for a successful and inspiring referendum in which … Read more »»».

PRESS BRIEFING

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James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

See below for an answer to a question (marked with an asterisk) posed in the briefing that required follow [..] Read the original article: here.

Egyptian cabinet promises 15-percent pay hike

CAIRO – The Egyptian cabinet met Monday for the first time since its reshuffle, announcing it would raise public-sector salaries and pensions by 15 percent.

The cabinet, which was reshuffled with several ministers fired late last month, said the Finance Ministry would allocate some 6.5 billion Egyptian pounds ($1.1 billion) to cover the raise, which …. Original article  : Egyptian cabinet promises 15-percent pay hike.

Readout of President Obama’s Call to Green Bay Packers Coach Mike McCarthy

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This afternoon, President Obama called Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy to congratulate him and the team on their Super Bowl victory.  The … Read more : Readout of President Obama’s Call to Green Bay Packers Coach Mike McCarthy.

Pakistan cabinet members quit (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – The members of Pakistan’s federal cabinet Wednesday tendered their resignations to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani in a move to rightsize it.

The cabinet members tendered their resignations to Gilani to enable him announce a new council of ministers, Associated Press of Pakistan reported.
The Pakistan federal government has 54 ministers, including …. Source article  : Pakistan cabinet members quit (Second Lead).

Former Karnataka deputy chief minister Prakash dead

BANGALORE – Former Karnataka deputy chief minister M.P. Prakash passed away here Wednesday. He was 71.

A highly respected leader known for his simplicity and integrity, Prakash was also a theatre enthusiast. He had directed and acted in Kannada plays.
He was deputy chief minister in the Congress-Janata Dal-Secular coalition in 2006-07. Later he joined …. Original article  : Former Karnataka deputy chief minister Prakash dead.

Pakistan cabinet members resign

ISLAMABAD – The members of Pakistan’s federal cabinet Wednesday tendered their resignations to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, who said a new cabinet would be formed, media reports said.

The cabinet members tendered their resignations to Gilani to enable him announce a new council of ministers, in light of decisions taken by the Central Executive …. Original article  : Pakistan cabinet members resign.

Patriot Act Extension Bill Denied

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday night dismissed a bill claiming the extension of the powers of the 2001 Patriot Act and Intelligence Reform bill. The passing of the bill was denied after the voting failed to acquire a majority of two-third, as per the rules and regulations of the U.S. House … Read more : Patriot Act Extension Bill Denied.

Pakistan cabinet quits

ISLAMABAD – All the members of the federal cabinet tendered their resignations to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Wednesday, Geo News reported.
Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan cabinet quits.

Rights group accuses Kamat, Congress MLA of land scam

PANAJI – A civil rights group Wednesday accused Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and a Congress legislator of facilitating a land scam that it says amounts to letting special economic zones (SEZs) enter “through the back door”.

Paul Fernandes, convenor of the Pilerne Citizens Forum (PCF) that used the Right to Information (RTI) Act to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rights group accuses Kamat, Congress MLA of land scam.

MP Prakash Passes Away

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- One of the most revered and respected politicians of Karnataka, Matada Patil Prakash or MP Prakash, left for the heavenly adobe, today morning. The seventy one year old politician, who worked for the, Janata Dal, Congress and has been an exponent of the Lingayat Community in Karnataka. He was admitted to …. Read the original article  : here.

Thousands of protesters remain in Cairo’s Tahrir Square

CAIRO – Thousands of Egyptians Wednesday continued to camp out in protest in Cairo’s Tahrir square, after a mass rally the day before to pressure President Hosni Mubarak to step down.

Overnight UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon called for the Egyptian government to enact a transition “the sooner, the better”, but stopped short of calling …. Read the original article  : Thousands of protesters remain in Cairo’s Tahrir Square.

Time for dialogue to resolve Kashmir problem: Hurriyat

SRINAGAR – The time had come for a meaningful dialogue to resolve the Kashmir problem, and people from the valley need to come forward to initiate the process, the moderate wing of the separatist Hurrriyat Conference headed by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq said Wednesday.

In a significant move, the Mirwaiz-led Hurriyat group issued a statement that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ex-PM Brown’s adviser told former NATO commander to play down Afghan failures

LONDON – A senior adviser to former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown is reported to have put pressure on a NATO commander to play down troop-related failures in Afghanistan.

According to leaked documents provided by the whistle blowing web site WikiLeaks, the adviser is said to have told the concerned commander not to reveal too much …. Original source  : Ex-PM Brown’s adviser told former NATO commander to play down Afghan failures.

US, Pakistan contacts now confined to Davis’s release

ISLAMABAD – The discussions between the US and Pakistan are now confined only to the row over US official Raymond Davis, who was arrested after he shot dead two Pakistanis in Lahore, it was reported here.

Contacts between Washington and Islamabad are only over the dispute on the release of Davis, US and diplomatic …. Original article  : US, Pakistan contacts now confined to Davis’s release.

Jayalalithaa asks PM to break silence on scams

CHENNAI – AIADMK general secretary J. Jayalalithaa Wednesday asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to speak up on the major corruption scams that have rocked the country.

Referring to a controversial deal between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Devas Multimedia, she said: “It is a national shame that scams running to lakhs of crores … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jayalalithaa asks PM to break silence on scams.

Julia Hurley Credits Hooters

NASHVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- Newly elected Republican in the Tennessee House of Representatives, Julia Hurley credited her previous workplace Hooters for shaping her career and her personal life. The Tennessee legislator wrote a current issue of a reputed magazine where she spoke about the difficulties that she faced in her life, her experience as Hooters girl …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Milan prosecutors seek immediate trial for Berlusconi

LONDON – Prosecutors in Milan today will formally ask that Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi stand trial immediately in connection with an investigation of his relations with an underage girl.

“We’ll have a final meeting today on the procedural aspects and tomorrow we will forward the request to the judge,” the Daily Mail quoted chief prosecutor … Read more »».

Kashmir interlocutors’ report likely by February end

JAMMU – The three interlocutors for Jammu and Kashmir are likely to submit their final report to the union home ministry by the end of this month, according to highly placed sources in the government.

The Omar Abdullah government is keen to have a “final assessment” of the interlocutors on the situation and their possible …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

A PM who paid when sons used official car

NEW DELHI – At a time when Indian politicians make news for corruption and misuse of power comes a book on Lal Bahadur Shastri, the country’s second prime minister who was so upright that he deposited money in government coffers because his sons had used his official car.

The incident has been captured in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A PM who paid when sons used official car.

US criticises Egyptian regime over slow pace of reform

WASHINGTON – As Egypt continued to be roiled in turmoil, the United States criticised the embattled Cairo regime, calling comments by Vice President Omar Suleiman that Egypt is not ready for democracy “particularly unhelpful.”

“Vice President Suleiman made some particularly unhelpful comments about Egypt not being ready for democracy,” White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US criticises Egyptian regime over slow pace of reform.

Ban Ki-moon urges peaceful transition in Egypt

UNITED NATIONS – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called for “an orderly and peaceful transition” in crisis-torn Egypt.

He has also expressed the hope that “genuine dialogue between the leaders and the people will lead to the beginning of such a process”.
Ban made the statement at a press conference here Tuesday after briefing the … Read more : Ban Ki-moon urges peaceful transition in Egypt.

Executive Order – Establishment of the Intellectual Property Enforcement Advisory Committees

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ESTABLISHMENT OF THE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

ENFORCEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEES

 

     By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United …. Source  : Executive Order — Establishment of the Intellectual Property Enforcement Advisory Committees.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 2/8/2011

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James S. Brady Press Briefing Room
 

See below for an answer to a question (marked with an asterisk) posed in the briefing that required …. Read the original article  : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 2/8/2011.

Thousands of protesters spend the night on Cairo square

CAIRO – Thousands of protesters were standing their ground in Cairo’s Tahrir Square Thursday, in the 17th day of protests demanding higher wages, political reform and the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak.

Hundreds had camped overnight on the streets, within sight of the nearby parliament buildings. The demonstrators did not appear to be placated by …. Source  : Thousands of protesters spend the night on Cairo square.

Patriot Act Extension Supported By Jerry McNerney

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- U.S Rep. Jerry McNerney certainly was one out of his group when it came to the Bay Area House members’ turn for voting with regard to the extension of the Patriot Act. The bill for the extension of the 2001 Patriot Act has stirred quite an uproar after it got rejected on Tuesday … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Patriot Act Extension Supported By Jerry McNerney.

Ready to die for Revolution 2.0, says Google executive

WASHINGTON – “It is no longer the time to negotiate” with the Egyptian government, said Google executive Wael Ghonim, one of the principal organisers of the massive anti-Hosni Mubarak protests for which he is “ready to die”.

Ghonim described the huge protests against President Mubarak, who has ruled Egypt for nearly 30 years, as an …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ready to die for Revolution 2.0, says Google executive.

Christopher Lee’s Resignation Follows Strong Reaction

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- For Republican Christopher Lee the downfall from grace has proved to be all too sudden and unexpected. The Republican found himself in deep waters after a gossip website published his bare pictures that he had sent to a woman on the web earlier. Visibly shocked by the unexpected the revelation the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Christopher Lee’s Resignation Follows Strong Reaction.

Manmohan Singh must explain S-Band spectrum scam: Shahnawaz Hussain

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Shahnawaz Hussain has demanded an explanation from Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh about the new and unique S-Band spectrum allocation scam.

Addressing the media here on Wednesday, Hussain said the ministry comes directly under the Prime Minister, so he will have to answer to the nation.

“The Manmohan Singh …. Original article  : Manmohan Singh must explain S-Band spectrum scam: Shahnawaz Hussain.

Chris Lee Resigns

CLARENCE (GaeaTimes.com)- Chris Lee, the member of the U.S. House of Representatives for New York’s 26th congressional district has resigned from his post on Wednesday. The member of Republican Party was busted for sending a shirtless photograph of him to a woman and as a result the politician said that he had made “profound” …. Original source  : Chris Lee Resigns.

US may cancel trilateral meet with Pakistan over diplomatic row

WASHINGTON – The United States has indicated that it could indeed cancel a high-level meeting involving Pakistan here amid a diplomatic row over continued detention of a US official who shot dead two men in Lahore.

“We want to have a productive meeting. If there’s a reason why we don’t think the meeting will be …. Original article  : US may cancel trilateral meet with Pakistan over diplomatic row.

Sufi appointed first Kashmir information commissioner

JAMMU – G.R. Sufi, an income tax officer, has been appointed Jammu and Kashmir’s first chief information commissioner.

Official sources said the state government received the file of Sufi’s appointment, duly signed by the governor, who is the appointing authority, late Wednesday evening.
“With this, Sufi stands appointed as the chief information commissioner …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Egypt unrest: Malaysia may fly out more of its nationals

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia, which has flown out 5,000 of its nationals from Egypt, would mount another operation if the situation there worsens, says Prime Minister

Mohammed Najib Tun Abdul Razak.
The prime minister said the government would be prepared to do so if the students’ lives were in danger.
Egypt has been facing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt unrest: Malaysia may fly out more of its nationals.

Rajasthan minister told to quit for remarks on president

JAIPUR – Rajasthan minister Amin Khan, who remarked that Pratibha Patil was made president for having cooked in late former prime minister Indira Gandhi’s kitchen, has been asked to resign.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot late Wednesday summoned the panchayati raj minister, who was at the temple town of Nathdwara near Udaipur, and asked him to …. Source  : Rajasthan minister told to quit for remarks on president.

Silvio Berlusconi threatens ‘total war’ over sex trial

LONDON – Silvio Berlusconi has threatened to launch a ‘constitutional war’ against the country’s judiciary after prosecutors in Milan suggested the Italian Prime Minister should be put on trial immediately for sex crimes.

Berlusconi has accused them of breaking the law and going against parliament.

Soon afterwards his chief ally, Umberto Bossi of the Northern League, … Read : Silvio Berlusconi threatens ‘total war’ over sex trial.

US denies dictating to Egypt

WASHINGTON – The US is not trying to dictate anything on how Egypt should move out of the crisis engulfing it, State Department spokesman Philip Crowley has said.

He was responding to criticism by Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul Gheit that the US is imposing its will on Egypt by dictating on how to move … Read more : US denies dictating to Egypt.

Readout of the President’s call with King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

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For Immediate Release

The President spoke today with King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia about the situation in Egypt.  The President emphasized the importance of taking immediate steps …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 2/9/2011

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For Immediate Release

 

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 

2:05 P.M. EST

 

     MR. GIBBS:  Mr. Feller.

     Q    Thank you, Robert.  I wanted to ask about the meeting with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 2/9/2011.

Readout of National Security Advisor Tom Donilon’s meeting with Secretary Clinton, Secretary Gates and Israeli Minister of Defense Barak

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National Security Advisor Donilon, Secretary of State Clinton, and Secretary of Defense Gates met jointly today with Israeli Minister of Defense Barak.  They stressed … Read : Readout of National Security Advisor Tom Donilon’s meeting with Secretary Clinton, Secretary Gates and Israeli Minister of Defense Barak.

Readout of the President and Vice President’s Meeting with Prime Minister Pahor of Slovenia

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The Vice President met today with Slovene Prime Minister Borut Pahor as part of the Administration’s frequent consultations with our European allies on our …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Readout of the President and Vice President’s Meeting with Prime Minister Pahor of Slovenia.

Statement by the President on Senator Webb’s Retirement

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From his courageous service in Vietnam to his tireless work in the United States Senate, Jim Webb has dedicated his life to serving our … Read more »»».

Giffords speaks for first time since shooting

WASHINGTON – US lawmaker Gabrielle Giffords has uttered her first words since being gravely wounded by a gunman in Arizona last month, US media reported Wednesday.

The Arizona congresswoman asked for some toast with her breakfast Monday at a rehabilitation centre in Houston, according to the US news website politico.com. It marked the latest sign … Read more : Giffords speaks for first time since shooting.

BJP accused of indulging in ‘vegetable politics’

PANAJI – Goa Youth Congress leaders Wednesday accused the BJP of indulging in “vegetable politics”, saying that saffron-aligned wholesalers in Karnataka were thwarting attempts by the Goa government to source cheap vegetables from Belgaum town.

Goa Youth Congress leaders Wednesday threatened to block the entry of trucks laden with vegetables from Belgaum, one of the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP accused of indulging in ‘vegetable politics’.

India thanks Afghanistan after rescue of consular employee

NEW DELHI – India Wednesday expressed its gratitude to the Afghan authorities after a kidnapped local employee of the Indian consulate in Jalalabad was rescued.

External Affairs Ministry spokesman Vishnu Prakash said that a Afghan employee of the Jalalabad consulate was kidnapped near his home on the evening of Feb 5, during which he also … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India thanks Afghanistan after rescue of consular employee.

Outrage as Mubarak refuses to go, US steps up pressure (Fourth Lead)

CAIRO/WASHINGTON – Furious Egyptians Friday prepared to hold a huge pro-democracy demonstration Friday, a day after embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak announced he would not be demitting office, prompting US President Barack Obama to reiterate that the aspirations of the people must be met.

The protesters at downtown Cairo’s Tahrir Square were initially stunned and …. Source  : Outrage as Mubarak refuses to go, US steps up pressure (Fourth Lead).

Vallarpadam terminal a mile-stone in logistic infrastructure development: PM

KOCHI – Dedicating the International Container Trans-shipment Terminal to the Nation at Vallapadam in Kochi, the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh today termed it as a “mile-stone in logistic infrastructure development.”

“The realisation of this a long-awaited project is a mile stone in the country’s development of logistic infrastructure which would help Kochi emerge …. Source article  : Vallarpadam terminal a mile-stone in logistic infrastructure development: PM.

Gilani appreciates Indo-Pak dialogue resumption, Manmohan’s vision for better ties

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed his satisfaction on the decision taken by Pakistan and India to resume the full spectrum of their bilateral dialogue, and appreciated the vision of his Indian counterpart Dr Manmohan Singh in this regard.

Gilani made these remarks during a meeting with Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir, who … Read more >>.

Yassin brushes aside former US envoy’s ‘Malaysia tolerated ethnic factionalism’ views

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has brushed off former US Ambassador John Malott John Malott’s criticism that Kuala Lumpur had tolerated ethnic factionalism, saying his comments do not carry any weightage.

“These are just his personal opinions and the media shouldn’t make a fuss. His comments don’t carry any weight because … Read more »»».

PM inaugurates Kochi international container terminal

KOCHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday inaugurated India’s first International Container Trans-shipment Terminal (ICTT) in the Special Economic Zone at nearby Vallarpadam Island.

The total cost of the first and second phase of the terminal is pegged at around Rs 6,250 crore.

The terminal after its completion will be able to handle … Read more >>.

Multiculturalism has failed: Nicolas Sarkozy

PARIS – French President Nicolas Sarkozy has said that multiculturalism had failed, echoing the growing concerns about the issue among a number of world leaders or ex-leaders, including British Prime Minister David Cameron.

“We have been too concerned about the identity of the person who was arriving and not enough about the identity of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Multiculturalism has failed: Nicolas Sarkozy.

Kerala ministers upset over PM’s function

KOCHI – Kerala Fisheries Minister S.Sharma and Transport Minister Jose Thettayil Friday expressed displeasure at state ministers not being invited to join the prime minister on the dais during the inauguration of the International Container Transhipment Terminal here.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh earlier in the day dedicated the largest single operator container terminal [..] Read the original article: here.

Day 3 of shutdown in Darjeeling, tension continues

KOLKATA/DARJEELING – The situation in West Bengal’s Darjeeling hills continued to be tense but no fresh trouble was reported Friday, day three of an indefinite shutdown called by pro-Gorkhaland Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) against the death of two activists in police firing.

“There are no reports of disturbances today (Friday). Some tension is … Read more »»».

New Nepal PM sidesteps first foreign trip row

KATHMANDU – Adroitly sidestepping the row dogging the first foreign trips of Nepal’s prime ministers, new premier Jhala Nath Khanal said his first destination abroad would be neither India nor China.

The 61-year-old communist leader, who was sworn in Sunday after winning the prime ministerial election with the surprise backing of the Maoist party, told … Read : New Nepal PM sidesteps first foreign trip row.

Now, foreign secretary Rao on Twitter

NEW DELHI – Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao Friday opened her Twitter account, becoming the first senior Indian bureaucrat to do so.

Her first post went out from her account (www.twitter.com/forsecnrao) at about 12.10 p.m. Friday – “Leaving4NewYork tonite.”
According to a foreign ministry official, Rao will be herself sending out tweets through her Blackberry phone. …. Read the original article  : Now, foreign secretary Rao on Twitter.

Congress legislator dies of cardiac arrest

BHOPAL – Former Madhya Pradesh minister and legislator Ratnesh Soloman died in the national capital following a cardiac arrest. He was 57.

Soloman, a minister in the Digvijay Singh government and elected to the assembly for the fourth time in 2008, was in Delhi when he got a heart attack while climbing stairs. He … Read : Congress legislator dies of cardiac arrest.

Mubarak stand: Intelligence failure or a deal gone awry?

WASHINGTON – The embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s “shocking” refusal to resign as widely anticipated has set off another round of speculation: Was it a major intelligence failure or a deal gone awry?

Or was it simply “a rare misstep” by Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Leon Panetta, “who had little intelligence experience before taking … Read : Mubarak stand: Intelligence failure or a deal gone awry?.

Omar aims at more power to panchayats

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said that separate election and finance commissions would be set up for panchayats before the upcoming polls in conformity with the 73rd amendment of the Indian constitution.

“The government will introduce bills seeking the constitution of a separate election and finance commission for panchayats … Original article on : Omar aims at more power to panchayats.

Protesters swell as Mubarak clings to power, US steps up pressure (Third Lead)

CAIRO/WASHINGTON – Spurred on by President Hosni Mubarak declaring he was not quitting office, tens of thousands of Egyptians Friday vowed to hold a massive pro-democracy demonstration as US President Barack Obama also mounted more pressure on the embattled regime.

The protesters at downtown Cairo’s Tahrir Square were taken aback and grew agitated when Mubarak, …. Source article  : Protesters swell as Mubarak clings to power, US steps up pressure (Third Lead).

PM to inaugurate Kochi international container terminal

KOCHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will on Friday inaugurate India’s first International Container Trans-shipment Terminal (ICTT) in the Special Economic Zone at nearby Vallarpadam Island.

The total cost of the first and second phase of the terminal is pegged at around Rs 6,250 crore.

The terminal after its completion will be able to … Read more »»».

NASA rocket to bear name of Egyptian woman killed in protests

Cairo, Feb 11 (IANS/AKI) The US’ space agency NASA has okayed the naming of one of its spaceships after a young Egyptian woman killed in late January during an anti-government protest, according to Egyptian daily Al-Masry-al-Youm.

The paper quoted Essam Mohamed Haji, a young researcher at NASA, as saying Thursday that he had received … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NASA rocket to bear name of Egyptian woman killed in protests.

Mubarak baiting protestors or inviting military action?

WASHINGTON – Embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s “shocking” refusal to resign has been interpreted by analysts as less than adequate to a bait for the crowds to turn violent and an invitation to the military to act.

It creates a massive crisis for the Egyptian military whose “goal is not to save Mubarak but to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mubarak baiting protestors or inviting military action?.

Lawmakers come to blows in Venezuela

Caracas, Feb 11 (IANS/EFE) Pro-government and opposition lawmakers came to blows Thursday during a session of the Venezuelan National Assembly devoted to questioning of several of President Hugo Chavez’s ministers.

Tension had been building since Jan 5, when the winners of last fall’s legislative elections assumed their seats.
Due to an opposition boycott of the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Lawmakers come to blows in Venezuela.

Mubarak had told US not to topple Saddam: WikiLeaks

LONDON – Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak had advised the former US vice-president Dick Cheney not to dethrone Saddam Hussein, according to leaked US cables.

Mubarak warned that by ignoring his advice and invading Iraq the Americans had increased the threat posed by Iran, The Telegraph reported WikiLeaks as stating, adding that he had stated …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mubarak had told US not to topple Saddam: WikiLeaks.

US piles pressure on Mubarak to hasten democracy

WASHINGTON – As Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak stubbornly clung to power sparking more protests, US President Barack Obama mounted pressure on the embattled regime asking “to move swiftly to explain the changes.”

Asserting that Mubarak has not convinced the Egyptian people that his handover of powers “is immediate, meaningful or sufficient”, he asked the Cairo … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US piles pressure on Mubarak to hasten democracy.

Berlusconi admits he’s ‘a sinner’, accuses opponents of staging ’show trial’

LONDON – Italy’s Prime Minister, Silvio Berlusconi, has admitted that he “sometimes is a sinner”, but also accused opponents of using Soviet-style spying to oust him in a political coup.

Berlusconi, 74, said during an interview with Il Foglio, an influential opinion daily, that prosecutors staged a … Read more >>.

Australia calls for election timetable to steer new Egypt

SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd Saturday said Egypt must now have a clear timetable for free and fair elections, following the resignation of Hosni Mubarak as president.

A joint statement by the prime minister and foreign minister said fundamental reform was needed to “ensure the opportunity and …. Original source  : Australia calls for election timetable to steer new Egypt.

Kerala not done enough to draw private investment: Chidambaram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The tit for tat between the Left-ruled Kerala and the central government ahead of the forthcoming assembly polls continued with union Home Minister P. Chidambaram Saturday lashing out at the state government.

Speaking at the Kerala Development Congress (KDC) venue here, Chidambaram attacked the state’s Left Democratic Front government, saying: “All the …. Source  : Kerala not done enough to draw private investment: Chidambaram.

Six nations where winds of change are blowing

WASHINGTON – The winds of change are sweeping through the Middle East, triggering a series of political shifts in response to widespread discontent that once went unacknowledged. Here is a brief on the six nations where the people’s revolt has been emblematic.

Tunisia: The northernmost country in Africa is where it all started, reports … Original source on Gaea Times at : Six nations where winds of change are blowing.

After Egyptians, now Yemenis call for revolution

SANAA – As tens of thousands of jubilant people in Cairo celebrated the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak, Yemenis inspired by the Egyptian uprising have begun mustering forces for their own revolution.

In the southern port city of Aden, protesters marched through the Mansoura district, waving the old flag of South Arabia and chanting “Revolution, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : After Egyptians, now Yemenis call for revolution.

Obama lauds Egypt’s Gandhian revolution, warns of tough days ahead (Second Lead)

WASHINGTON – As the Egyptian people crafted history by ending through a nonviolent Gandhian revolution three decades of Hosni Mubarak’s iron rule, US President Barack Obama warned of “tough days ahead” for its key ally in the Middle East.

The end of Mubarak’s rule Friday in an explosion of popular protests that began Jan 25 …. Source article  : Obama lauds Egypt’s Gandhian revolution, warns of tough days ahead (Second Lead).

Space commission meet begins

NEW DELHI – In the backdrop of the S-band spectrum controversy, India’s Space Commission Saturday began a meeting here and is expected to discuss restructuring of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and its commercial arm Antrix.

The meeting is attended by V. Narayanasamy, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, National Security … Read more >>>.

Orissa minister, lawmakers to get three-fold salary hike

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa ministers and lawmakers are set to get a nearly three-fold hike in their salary apart from perks with retrospective effect from April 1, 2010, an official said Saturday.

The proposal got the nod from the state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Friday evening but the salary hike will be effective …. Original article  : Orissa minister, lawmakers to get three-fold salary hike.

`Egyptian uprising portends fundamental change in Mideast’

WASHINGTON – The non-violent Egyptian revolution bringing the Mubarak era to an end may trigger fundamental changes in the Middle East with some experts even predicting the end of the America era in the region.

“Washington will have to navigate a tricky course between backing democracy and protecting its interests in the region,” suggested … Read more >>.

Economic policies should end disparity between rural-urban areas: Nitin Gadkari

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) President Nitin Gadkari has said the government’s economic policies should be aimed at reducing the disparity between rural and urban areas.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of an event here on Friday, Gadkari said: “Rightfully implemented economic policy would end the disparity and the discrimination between rural and …. Source  : Economic policies should end disparity between rural-urban areas: Nitin Gadkari.

We are not scared of hooliganism of BJP: Yasin Malik

AJMER – Reacting to the protest by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activists against him, separatist leader Yasin Malik said he was not scared of the part’s hooliganism.

“I would like to tell the protestors that we have no fear against such cowardly acts and will never be fearful of such things. We are in a peaceful … Read more »».

White House spokesman departs on day of change in Egypt

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama’s spokesman Robert Gibbs held his final White House briefing after more than two years on the job.

While Gibbs’ departure has been known for the past month, Obama couldn’t resist drawing a parallel with the day’s events in Egypt, as he appeared in the briefing room to pay tribute …. Source  : White House spokesman departs on day of change in Egypt.

Musharraf charged with providing Baitullah with ‘opportunity to murder Benazir’

RAWALPINDI – Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf provided Tehrik-i-Taliban chief Baitullah Mehsud with the opportunity to carry out suicide attacks on former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, according to a detailed charge-sheet presented in Rawalpindi’s Anti Terrorism Court (ATC).

Benazir was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

G4 countries push for Security Council expansion

UNITED NATIONS – India, Brazil, Germany and Japan, the four countries seeking permanent seats on the UN Security Council, have agreed to push full speed ahead for the expansion of the top UN decision making body at the earliest.

“There is widespread support for a Member-States driven initiative to take the process of the … Original article on : G4 countries push for Security Council expansion.

Egyptians celebrate into the night after Mubarak departure

CAIRO – Tens of thousands of Egyptians waved Egyptian flags, honked car horns and launched fireworks well into the early hours of Saturday, still stunned and cheering over the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak.

As night fell, the mood lifted to one of celebration and parents took their children to witness the historic gatherings at … Read more >>.

India seeks reform of global security structure

UNITED NATIONS – India has called for a reform of the international structure for maintaining peace and security and peacebuilding while offering its unmatched nation building experience for global efforts towards greater development and improved security.

“No country has contributed as many peacekeepers to as many peacekeeping operations as India,” External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna … Read : India seeks reform of global security structure.

Obama hails Egypt’s Gandhian revolution, calls for ‘genuine democracy’

WASHINGTON – As the Egyptian people created history by ending three decades of Hosni Mubarak’s autocratic rule through a Gandhi like “moral force of nonviolence”, US President Barack Obama praised it as a new “beginning.”

The end of Mubarak’s rule Friday by a groundswell of popular protests that began Jan 25 was not “the end …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama hails Egypt’s Gandhian revolution, calls for ‘genuine democracy’.

Obama extols non-violence, says Egyptians ‘inspired us’

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama, a self-confessed follower of Mahatma Gandhi and his ideals, heard echoes of history in the way Egyptians brought about change through nonviolence like Gandhi “leading his people down the path of justice.”

“Egyptians have inspired us, and they’ve done so by putting the lie to the idea that justice …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama extols non-violence, says Egyptians ‘inspired us’.

Egypt: test of US policy of supporting dictators

The Egyptian crisis has exposed American hypocrisy more starkly than ever before. In a classical case of a confrontation between autocracy and freedom, which the upsurge in Egypt represents, the dithering of the land of the free and home of the brave on which side to support is yet another confirmation about how the US …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Egypt: test of US policy of supporting dictators.

Obama hears echoes of Gandhi in Egyptian revolution

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama heard echoes of history in the way Egyptians brought about change through the “moral force of nonviolence” like India’s Mahatma Gandhi “leading his people down the path of justice.”

“Egyptians have inspired us, and they’ve done so by putting the lie to the idea that justice is best … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama hears echoes of Gandhi in Egyptian revolution.

Chouhan cancels fast after PM’s positive response on aid

BHOPAL – Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Sunday cancelled his indefinite fast to protest against the centre’s “injustice to the people” of the state after receiving a positive response from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on aid.

The chief minister said the prime minister has invited him to Delhi Feb 20 for talks with …. Source  : Chouhan cancels fast after PM’s positive response on aid.

Protests in Rome-After Mubarak, it’s time for Berlusconi to step down

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi faced a clamour from the streets of Rome to follow Hosni Mubarak’s example and step down from Italy’s premiership, as hundreds of protestors blew time on his leadership.

The demonstrators struggled to be heard at times amid the din from blowing of whistles and banging of cooking saucepans during …. Read the original article  : Protests in Rome-After Mubarak, it’s time for Berlusconi to step down.

Hundreds of protesters remain in Cairo’s Tahrir square

CAIRO – Hundreds of demonstrators remained in Cairo’s Tahrir square Sunday, two days after the resignation of Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak, as the first cabinet meeting since his departure was scheduled to take place later in the day.

They were still in the square, the focal point of demonstrations over the past three weeks, although … Read more : Hundreds of protesters remain in Cairo’s Tahrir square.

Clarify stand on Kashmir’s territory: Omar to PDP

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Sunday asked the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to clarify its stand on the territorial integrity of the state after the party showed a part of the state inside China.

Abdullah told newsmen on the sidelines of a police function here Sunday: It is for …. Read the original article  : here.

Palestinian Authority calls elections before September

GAZA – The Palestinian Authority has said it will hold long overdue presidential and legislative elections before September.

The presidential and legislative elections were originally scheduled for 2010. But they were called off because of internal problems within the government, Xinhua reported Sunday.
Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist political party, however, responded quickly with a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Palestinian Authority calls elections before September.

Ex-premier, senior officials barred from leaving Egypt

Cairo, Feb 13 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Egypt’s chief prosecutor has barred former prime minister Ahmed Nazif and other senior officials from leaving the country to prevent them from escaping corruption charges, soon after people’s protests forced president Hosni Mubarak to step down.

The travel ban has also been imposed on other members of the former … Original article on : Ex-premier, senior officials barred from leaving Egypt.

Democracy will make Middle East more stable: Obama

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama told key foreign leaders that democracy will help stabilize the Middle East amid uncertainty about Egypt’s future after President Hosni Mubarak was toppled.

Obama Saturday telephoned British Prime Minister David Cameron, King Abdullah of Jordan and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss developments in Egypt, the White …. Read the original article  : here.

Defectors, independents, dissidents – all part of Hooda government

CHANDIGARH – Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda does not only head a coalition government in the state, but one full of independents, defectors and not-so-friendly Congress leaders.

Two legislators who had defected from the Haryana Janhit Congress (HJC) were inducted as cabinet ministers Jan 28, making it apparent that Hooda is under political pressure … Read more >>.

Clinton ‘forced’ Qureshi to grant immunity to Davis

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had pressurised him to verify the diplomatic immunity to Raymond Davis arrested for gunning down two men in Lahore.

“Hillary Clinton called me and wanted me to publicly confirm diplomatic immunity of Davis. However, I refused … Read : Clinton ‘forced’ Qureshi to grant immunity to Davis.

US defers trilateral meeting with Pakistan

WASHINGTON – The US has postponed a trilateral meeting involving Pakistan due later this month here amid a diplomatic row over continued detention of an American official who shot dead two men in Lahore.

The US has put off a trilateral meeting with Pakistan and Afghanistan slated for Feb 23-24 in Washington “in light …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Protests in Italy -’after Mubarak, Berlusconi’

ROME – A group of Italian protesters, who call themselves the Purple People, organized a weekend of demonstrations in several cities against Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, demanding his resignation over allegations of sex with underage prostitutes.

“After Mubarak, Silvio Berlusconi,” hundreds of protesters chanted in Rome Saturday, creating quite a stir as they banged …. Source  : Protests in Italy — ‘after Mubarak, Berlusconi’.

JPC more essential after Raja’s arrest: BJP, Left

SHILLONG – Reiterating their demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Left parties Saturday said a probe into the scam has become essential with arrest of former communications minister A.Raja.

“We dont want a debate or discussion on JPC, but we want … Read this article on Gaea Times at : JPC more essential after Raja’s arrest: BJP, Left.

Poll panel verifies list of homeless after violence

KOLKATA – Members of the high-level Election Commission team touring poll-bound West Bengal Saturday made a door-to-door survey to verify the list of people forced to stay away from home due to political violence, said senior state official.

Three members of the team divided in two groups, visited trouble-torn areas of Howrah and East Midnapore …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Post-Mubarak, Egypt army vows peaceful power transition (Second Lead)

CAIRO – Egyptian military committed itself to oversee the peaceful transition of power Saturday, a day after Hosni Mubarak resigned as Egypt’s president after ruling the country for 30 years.

The country’s new military leaders sought to allay some of those concerns with an announcement on state television Saturday, in which they promised to hand …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Post-Mubarak, Egypt army vows peaceful power transition (Second Lead).

Krishna reads Portuguese minister’s speech at UN, ministry downplays gaffe

UNITED NATIONS – In a public gaffe, India’s External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna inadvertently read out the speech of his Portuguese counterpart at a UN Security Council meeting here, but quickly corrected it after India’s chief diplomat at the UN pointed it out to him.

Krishna read out Portuguese Foreign Minister Luis Amado’s speech … Original source on Gaea Times at : Krishna reads Portuguese minister’s speech at UN, ministry downplays gaffe.

South Asia committed to democracy: Lok Sabha speaker

COLOMBO – South Asian countries have sent out a message to the world by coming together to promote and protect democracy, said Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar as the guest of honour at a regional conference of parliamentarians here Saturday.

The third Asian Regional Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), being held here Feb … Read more >>>.

Krishna’s UN faux pas has embarrassed India: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday said the faux pas by External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna at the UN Security Council where he read out a portion of his Portuguese counterpart’s speech by mistake has embarrassed India at an international forum.

This is bound to happen when we have people who … Original source on Gaea Times at : Krishna’s UN faux pas has embarrassed India: BJP.

Krishna reads Portuguese minister’s speech at UN

UNITED NATIONS – In a public gaffe, India’s External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna inadvertently read out the speech of his Portuguese counterpart at a UN Security Council meeting here, but quickly corrected it after an Indian diplomat pointed it out to him.

Krishna read out Portuguese Foreign Minister Luis Amado’s speech for a full … Read : Krishna reads Portuguese minister’s speech at UN.

Egypt developments could impact Kashmir: Mehbooba

SRINAGAR – The developments in Egypt could impact Kashmir, but nobody can foretell the shape of such an impact, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti said here Saturday. Her comment drew ridicule from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who said she seemed to be wanting “military rule” in the state.

Addressing a media conference here, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egypt developments could impact Kashmir: Mehbooba.

Resumption of talks with India a breakthrough: Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Terming as “a breakthrough” the agreement between India and Pakistan to resume bilateral dialogue, Pakistan Saturday said the move is “likely to result in bringing peace and stability to the region”.

“We have agreed on the time frame of talks and the secretary-level talks would start in June before the foreign ministers of … Read more »».

Orissa budget session begins on stormy note

BHUBANESWAR – The budget session of the Orissa assembly began on a stormy note here Monday with opposition members raising anti-government slogans for alleged irregularities in purchase of pulses for the mid-day meal scheme in schools and nutrition programme for women.

Opposition Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members created ruckus and started shouting slogans …. Original article  : Orissa budget session begins on stormy note.

India welcomes South Sudan referendum

NEW DELHI – India Monday welcomed the results of the January referendum in which southern Sudan voted for independence.

India welcomes the successful conclusion of the referendum held in southern Sudan in which its people have voted overwhelmingly for a separate state of South Sudan in a credible and peaceful manner, said a press release … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India welcomes South Sudan referendum.

PDP takes out ‘resolution’ rally

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir’s main opposition Peoples Democratic Party Monday took out what it called a resolution rally here seeking an earlier solution to the more than six-decade old Kashmir crisis.

The party workers marched along the rain-drenched streets of Jammu as part of its campaign to seek an early solution to the … Read more : PDP takes out ‘resolution’ rally.

Kerala assembly turns unruly over PM’s visit

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – There were acrimonious scenes in the Kerala assembly Monday after ruling party legislators alleged that the governor, chief minister and other ministers had been treated badly during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s three-day visit to the state.

The treasury benches after a nearly one-hour verbal duel passed a resolution condemning the way the state …. Source  : Kerala assembly turns unruly over PM’s visit.

Mumbai youth enjoy Valentine’s Day as MNS, Sena lie low

MUMBAI – Youngsters in Mumbai and other places in Maharashtra celebrated Valentine’s Day by openly exchanging flowers and gifts and headed out for some fun at multiplexes and malls as the right-wing Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) lay low.

Dressed in their V-Day best, young boys and girls made a beeline for restaurants, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mumbai youth enjoy Valentine’s Day as MNS, Sena lie low.

Mudslinging begins with eye to Assam polls

GUWAHATI – The pitch is getting sharper and the allegations dirtier. With assembly elections due in Assam this year, political parties are busy slinging mud at each other even as real issues affecting the common man are nowhere to be found at rallies and speeches.

I don’t know if AGP (Asom Gana Parishad) leader Prafulla …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mudslinging begins with eye to Assam polls.

Shutdown cripples life in Darjeeling for sixth day

DARJEELING – Normal life was paralysed in West Bengal’s Darjeeling Hills Monday for the sixth day due to an indefinite shutdown called by the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) protesting the death of three party activists in police firing, police said.

“The shutdown was total in three subdivisions – Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong – of the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Shutdown cripples life in Darjeeling for sixth day.

30 percent polling in Chhattisgarh by-election

RAIPUR – Voting was underway Monday for Chhattisgarh’s Sanjari-Balod assembly by-election and an estimated 30 percent polling was recorded by noon, election officials said.

Polling began at 8 a.m. amid tight security and was peaceful at all 187 booths except one in Gurur area where voting was disrupted for about 10 minutes following tension between …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Being arrogant will not help US: Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is “in a fix” due to the mystery surrounding the diplomatic status of Raymond Davis who shot dead two men in Lahore — but the United States, too, is in a soup, said a Pakistani daily, since “being arrogant will not help the US, instead it will only increase the anti-American sentiment …. Source article  : Being arrogant will not help US: Pakistani daily.

400 Kashmir political activists lose security cover

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government has removed the security cover of around 400 activists of major parties following a review of their security needs against the backdrop of declining militancy and diminishing threats, an official said Monday.

The government decision late Sunday has affected almost all parties, including the ruling National Conference, its …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 400 Kashmir political activists lose security cover.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi faces disciplinary action

ISLAMABAD – Shah Mahmood Qureshi faces “serious disciplinary action”, Pakistan’s ruling PPP said here after the former foreign minister disclosed that the US had “forced” him to confirm diplomatic immunity for Raymond Davis, who shot dead two people in Lahore.

Fauzia Wahab, information secretary of the Pakistan People’s Party, said the former foreign minister has … Read more : Shah Mahmood Qureshi faces disciplinary action.

Yemeni police clash with anti-government protesters

SANA’A – Yemeni police clashed with over 3,000 anti-government protesters marching toward the presidential palace in Sana’a.

Police intervened Sunday as around 3,000 people calling for the fall of President Ali Abdullah Saleh began marching towards the palace.
Police and Republican Guard troops used batons to disperse the protesters, who were mainly students, and arrested …. Read the original article  : Yemeni police clash with anti-government protesters.

Scandals from past jolt Kerala opposition (Letter from Kerala)

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala’s opposition United Democratic Front (UDF), led by the Congress, has got a rude jolt as old scandals have come back to haunt it, causing much agony after its superlative comeback in the local bodies polls last year.

Four old cases in which top opposition leaders are alleged to be involved have resurfaced [..] Read the original article: here.

Polling underway for Chhattisgarh assembly seat

RAIPUR – Voting was underway Monday for Chhattisgarh’s Sanjari-Balod assembly by-election as voters, including women in large numbers, lined up outside polling centres in rural areas early morning.

Voting began at 8 a.m. amid tight security at all 187 polling booths with extra forces deployed at 27 sensitive and six hyper-sensitive booths. Initial reports …. Original article  : Polling underway for Chhattisgarh assembly seat.

Mubarak still in Egypt, says PM

CAIRO – Hosni Mubarak, who stepped down Friday as Egypt’s president, is still in the country’s Red Sea resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh, Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq has said.

“Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq announced Sunday that former president Hosni Mubarak is in Sharm el-Sheikh up to now,” Xinhua quoted official MENA news agency as saying. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mubarak still in Egypt, says PM.

West Bengal’s Left Front woos Muslims, women

KOLKATA – Faced with arguably its toughest political test in the coming assembly polls, West Bengal’s ruling Left Front Sunday wooed two crucial segments of voters – Muslims and women – during a rally held here to kick off its campaign.

With the day marking the centenary of famed Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz, the …. Source article  : West Bengal’s Left Front woos Muslims, women.

Egypt’s military rulers dissolve parliament, suspend constitution (Roundup)

Cairo, Feb 13 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Egypt’s military leadership Sunday dissolved both the upper and lower houses of the parliament and suspended the constitution.

Earlier Sunday, scuffles broke out between Egyptian soldiers and protesters at Cairo’s Tahrir Square after the military tried to remove activists from the epicentre of Egypt’s uprising, eyewitnesses said.
The military … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt’s military rulers dissolve parliament, suspend constitution (Roundup).

Karunanidhi denies getting letter from Ratan Tata

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M. Karunanidhi Sunday denied receiving a letter from industrialist Ratan Tata, delivered by corporate lobbyist Niira Radia in 2007.

Responding to the charge of AIADMK chief J.Jayalalithaa that Radia had hand-delivered a letter to him, Karunanidhi, in a statement issued here, said: “I have not received … Original article on : Karunanidhi denies getting letter from Ratan Tata.

Congress panel consults partymen on seat sharing with DMK

CHENNAI – A five-member Congress panel, set up to discuss sharing of seats with ally DMK, Sunday started hearing the views of its parliament and assembly members on the constituencies it should contest from in the ensuing Tamil Nadu assembly polls.

The panel comprising Tamil Nadu Congress chief K.V.Thankabalu, union ministers P. Chidambaram and G.K.Vasan, …. Source  : Congress panel consults partymen on seat sharing with DMK.

Shourie to appear before CBI over 2G scam (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Shourie, who was communications minister during the NDA rule, will Feb 21 appear before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) that has deepened its probe into the 2G spectrum scam, to answer queries about the telecom policy initiated since 2001.

“Shourie will appear before the …. Source article  : Shourie to appear before CBI over 2G scam (Roundup).

Govt. must clarify on phone tapping: BJP

KOLKATA – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley on Tuesday sought a clarification from the UPA government on alleged tapping of over one lakh telephones across the country.

“The government has to confirm that tapping is being done on consideration of security and also state how many phones are being tapped,” he told … Original article on : Govt. must clarify on phone tapping: BJP.

PM has to break silence on 2G, S-band, inflation: BJP

KOLKATA – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should break his silence on the 2G and S-band spectrum controversies as well as on inflation and black money when he addresses the media on Wednesday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said here.

Manmohan Singh will meet TV editors at his official 7 Race Course residence Wednesday morning, ahead … Read more »».

Sorens ignored at National Games: JMM

RANCHI – The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), a key ally of the ruling BJP, is unhappy that party chief Shibu Soren and his son Hemant Soren were given the cold shoulder at the opening ceremony of the National Games here.

Both Soren senior and Hemant Soren, who is deputy chief minister, shared dais with Governor …. Original source  : Sorens ignored at National Games: JMM.

Shiv Sena chief rejects proposal for alliance with MNS

MUMBAI – Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray Tuesday categorically rejected senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Gopinath Mundes suggestion to form a tripartite front which includes the Senas bte noire, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena.

In an editorial in the party mouthpiece Saamna, Thackeray said that the 22-year old Shiv Sena-BJP alliance in the state has served …. Read the original article  : Shiv Sena chief rejects proposal for alliance with MNS.

Mubarak ‘very sick’, fainting due to depression

LONDON – Former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak is “very sick” and has fainted on at least one occasion at the Red Sea holiday villa in Sharm el-Sheikh where he was sent into internal exile, media reports say.

Locals in the resort city said they were told by Mubarak’s guards that he was bedridden and needed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mubarak ‘very sick’, fainting due to depression.

Muraleedharan set to return to Congress fold

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – K. Muralidheeran, the son of late Congress veteran K. Karunakaran, was Tuesday given the green signal to return to the Congress party after being suspended for six years. He said he was “delighted” and would work towards the party coming back to power in the state.

“I am really delighted that I …. Original article  : Muraleedharan set to return to Congress fold.

President, vice president greet nation on Milad-Un-Nabi

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil and Vice President Hamid Ansari Tuesday greeted the nation on the eve of Milad-Un-Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammad, saying his teachings continue to be a source of spiritual strength for humanity.

“On the auspicious occasion of Milad-Un-Nabi, the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed, I convey my …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President, vice president greet nation on Milad-Un-Nabi.

Australian PM denied chance to address New Zealand parliament

SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has been denied an invitation to address New Zealand’s parliament during a formal sitting, as such a move would force the house to be addressed by “unpleasant people”, a politician said.

But the visiting leader will address the MPs in the debating chamber of parliament in Wellington.
New …. Source  : Australian PM denied chance to address New Zealand parliament.

Bahrain king phones Egyptian military chief

MANAMA – Bahraini King Hamad Bin Isa al-Khalifa has telephoned the head of Egypt’s ruling military council, Field Marshal Mohammed Hussein Tantawi, a day after 14 people were injured in clashes between police and protesters in Bahrain.

The king hoped Egypt would restore its leading role in the Arab and Muslim world, Xinhua reported citing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bahrain king phones Egyptian military chief.

Clarify on 100,000 tapped phones: BJP to government

KOLKATA – The government should give an “authoritative clarification” on media reports that 100,000 phones are being tapped per year, which is a matter of concern, senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley said here Tuesday.

“Media reports today (Tuesday) have indicated that around 1 lakh telephone connections are being tapped. The law is very clear … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Clarify on 100,000 tapped phones: BJP to government.

Bangladesh constitution to restore independence proclamation

DHAKA – Bangladesh will restore in its constitution the historic proclamation of independence made in April 1971.

The proclamation is considered the interim constitution of Bangladesh.
A special committee on constitutional amendment will decide how to incorporate it at an appropriate place in the constitution, Suranjit Sengupta, co-chair of the committee, told The Daily …. Original source  : Bangladesh constitution to restore independence proclamation.

Berlusconi refuses to step down saying he has ‘respect for women’

LONDON – Scandal-hit Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has hit back at protestors’ calls for him to resign and insisted he had ‘respect for women.’

In what was one of the largest mass demonstrations ever seen in Italy vast crowds marched through more than 200 cities and towns calling on the 74-year-old media tycoon to resign.

The …. Source  : Berlusconi refuses to step down saying he has ‘respect for women’.

Manmohan Singh to take questions on live TV

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will take questions on television to directly answer the charges hurled at him.

Dr. Singh will interact with editors on Wednesday morning at his 7 Race Course Road residence at around 10.30 a.m.

According to sources, the modalities of the telecast are still being worked out, …. Read the original article  : here.

PM to respond to scam charges in press conference

NEW DELHI – Besieged by a series of corruption scams, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will Wednesday meet the press to field questions on the opposition’s charges ahead of the budget session of parliament beginning next week, official sources said.

The sources said Manmohan Singh will meet TV editors at his official 7 Race Course residence …. Source article  : PM to respond to scam charges in press conference.

Clashes in Iran, opposition leader under house arrest

TEHRAN – Iranian security forces fired teargas shells to disperse protesters who had gathered at a Tehran square in support of demonstrations in Egypt and Tunisia, while opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi was placed under house arrest.

Clashes were reported to have taken place at the Enghelab Square in Tehran between security forces and protesters.
…. Source article  : Clashes in Iran, opposition leader under house arrest.

Larry the cat ‘to take on Downing Street rats’

LONDON – UK Prime Minister David Cameron is all set to welcome a cat into his official residence.

The four-year old tabby cat is to move into No 10, reports the BBC.

The new resident, believed to be called Larry, is to join the Cameron and his family from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

The arrival follows … Original source on Gaea Times at : Larry the cat ‘to take on Downing Street rats’.

Egypt’s military asks people to end fresh wave of strikes

CAIRO – As thousands of workers began protests to demand better pay and conditions, Egypt’s ruling military council asked people to end the fresh wave of strikes and help in reviving the country’s economy.

In a communique read out on state television Monday, a spokesman for the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces called for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt’s military asks people to end fresh wave of strikes.

Grossman to be US envoy to Afghanistan, Pakistan

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration has picked Marc Grossman, a retired senior diplomat and former ambassador to Turkey, as its new special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, US media reported.

Grossman, who left the State Department in 2005 and is the vice chairman of a consulting firm, will succeed Richard C. Holbrooke, who died of … Read : Grossman to be US envoy to Afghanistan, Pakistan.

Clinton backs protesters in Iran, praises Egypt’s military

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton Monday said the US stood behind anti-government protesters in Iran and praised the Egyptian military for its initial steps since taking control of Egypt last week.

“What we’re seeing in Iran today is a testament to the courage of the Iranian people,” Clinton said after a … Original article on : Clinton backs protesters in Iran, praises Egypt’s military.

EU to give $348 mn in aid to Tunisia

TUNIS – The European Union (EU) will provide 258 million euros (about $348 million) in aid to Tunisia to help various developmental projects in the country.

EU’s foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said that 17 million euros will be granted immediately while the rest of the amount will be provided by 2013, according to … Read more : EU to give $348 mn in aid to Tunisia.

Protests begin in Libya: Report

LONDON – There have been reports of several protests by hundreds of people in the Libyan city of Benghazi, triggered by the arrest of a lawyer who was an outspoken critic of the government, BBC reported Wednesday.

The lawyer was later said to have been released but the protests continued.
The protests began after the … Read more >>.

Tripura could be gateway to northeast, say visiting MPs

AGARTALA – A parliamentary team Wednesday said it will suggest the name of Unakoti, a seventh century pilgrim spot in Tripura, as a world heritage site and also pointed out that improved infrastructure could make the state the gateway to India’s northeast.

The team of MPs headed by Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Rajya Sabha …. Original article  : Tripura could be gateway to northeast, say visiting MPs.

Election year: Kerala bill to enable roadside public meetings

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – At a time when elections are due in the state, Kerala assembly Wednesday took up a bill to circumvent last year’s high court ruling against holding public meetings on the roadside.

The bill titled Kerala Public Ways Restriction of Assemblies and Processions 2011 was moved by Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. In a rare …. Original article  : Election year: Kerala bill to enable roadside public meetings.

PM has thrown up his hands on corruption, price rise: CPI-M

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) said Wednesday that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had “thrown up his hands” on corruption and price rise and had tried to justify the 2G spectrum pricing by comparing it to subsidies in the food and fertiliser sectors.

“The prime minister virtually tried to justify (the …. Original source  : PM has thrown up his hands on corruption, price rise: CPI-M.

2,000 DMK members held during anti-Sri Lanka protest

CHENNAI – More than 2,000 DMK members, including MPs and legislators, protesting the arrest of 106 Indian fishermen by Sri Lanka were arrested here Wednesday to prevent a march to the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission.

Among those arrested were Rajya Sabha MP Kanimohzi, also daughter of DMK president and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2,000 DMK members held during anti-Sri Lanka protest.

Maoists to join new Nepal government

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s Maoist party, who had backed communist leader Jhala Nath Khanal to power a fortnight ago but then threatened to withdraw support following a row over ministries, is finally set to join the new government after getting its own way.

Maoist chief Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, who exited from the prime ministerial race …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists to join new Nepal government.

I will stay the course: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday said he had never felt like resigning because he had a job to do and there was a lot of unfinished business.

“I have never felt like quitting, I will stay the course,” the prime minister said during a media interaction at 7, Race Course Road, his …. Original source  : I will stay the course: PM.

More reforms will be unveiled in 2011-12 Budget: PM

NEW DELHI – Blaming the Opposition for delaying the introduction of crucial Bills in Parliament, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday said more reforms will be unveiled in the 2011-12 Budget.

During his interaction with top television editors of the country, Dr. Singh said: “We have not given up on reforms. We will persist… I sincerely … Read : More reforms will be unveiled in 2011-12 Budget: PM.

Not aware of methods used in FCFS spectrum allocation: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Wednesday said that he was not aware of the methodology of the controversial First-Come, First-Serve (FCFS) policy followed for 2G spectrum allocation by former Telecom Minister A Raja.

During his interaction with top television editors of the country on Wednesday, Dr. Singh said: “Who got the …. Read the original article  : Not aware of methods used in FCFS spectrum allocation: PM.

I am not a culprit as being projected: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Wednesday he never claimed that he had never made a mistake but he had not made the kind of mistakes that were being attributed to him.

“I do not say that I have never made a mistake. But the kind of propaganda being done and shown, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : I am not a culprit as being projected: PM.

No dilution of Space Commission decision on Devas: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday refuted charges that his office was trying to dilute the Space Commission’s decision to annul the S-band spectrum deal between Indian space agency ISRO and private company Devas.

“There has been no effort in the PMO to dilute in any way the decision taken by the Space … Read more »»».

Wrongdoers behind CWG scam will not escape: PM

NEW DELHI – The “wrongdoers” behind the Commonwealth Games (CWG) corruption scam would not escape, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh assured Wednesday.

Answering a question on whether he was disappointed over the delays in the CWG scam probe, he told a press conference that the government was trying its “very best” but there was a due … Read more >>>.

Scams biggest regret, says PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday listed stabilisation of Indian economy during the global meltdown as the biggest achievements of his government but mentioned the series of corruption scams as the greatest regret of his tenure.

These irregularities that have happened that has certainly given me…I am not very happy about these developments, …. Original article  : Scams biggest regret, says PM.

Food inflation a problem but growth important, says Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Accepting that food inflation has been a problem, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today said the government did not want to sacrifice the growth process as “it would not do the country any good.”

During his interaction with top television editors of the country, Dr. Singh said: ” Food inflation has been at … Read more : Food inflation a problem but growth important, says Manmohan Singh.

India better prepared to tackle challenges posed by terrorism: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today said that the internal security situation is better and the country is better prepared to tackle the challenges posed by terrorism.

Meeting editors ahead of the budget session of parliament at his official 7 Race Course residence on Wednesday morning, Dr Singh further said the government … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India better prepared to tackle challenges posed by terrorism: PM.

Berlusconi trial will be presided over by three women judges

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi will be tried in court on charges of abuse of office and paying for sex with an under age prostitute and the case will be presided over by three women judges.

The trial will start on April 6, and a judge in Milan has said that the case will … Read more >>.

Dawn of democracy anywhere has India’s good wishes: PM

NEW DELHI – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Wednesday that people in other parts of the world wanting to move to democracy had the good wishes of the Indian people.

Responding to a query from the Al Jazeera TV representative at his press conference about the developments in Egypt and other Arab … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dawn of democracy anywhere has India’s good wishes: PM.

Not afraid of JPC, dead serious about bringing wrongdoers to book: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today made it clear that he is not afraid of facing the Joint Parliamentary Committee probe in the 2G scam as demanded by the Opposition, and added that he never thought of quitting over the issue.

A. Raja was forced to resign from the Union Cabinet last year …. Original article  : Not afraid of JPC, dead serious about bringing wrongdoers to book: Manmohan Singh.

Hope to break parliament deadlock: Manmohan

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Wednesday he hopes to break the deadlock in parliament over the opposition demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scandal.

Asked whether he hoped parliament would function normally in the upcoming budget session as the opposition was adamant on a JPC, Manmohan … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hope to break parliament deadlock: Manmohan.

Be objective in reporting India, PM tells media

NEW DELHI – Stating that facts were sacred and should not be distorted, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asked the media Wednesday to be objective in reporting on the country’s affairs.

Answering a question on whether the current atmosphere would be a dampener for investors, he admitted that this sort of atmosphere “saps our self confidence” … Original article on : Be objective in reporting India, PM tells media.

Andhra legislators roughed up in assembly

HYDERABAD – Lok Satta party president Jaipraksh Narayan and ruling Congress party legislator P. Venkat Rao were allegedly manhandled by Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) legislators and activists within the Andhra Pradesh assembly complex Thursday.

The incident took place soon after Jaiprakash addressed the media, criticising the disruption of the governor’s address to the joint session … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Andhra legislators roughed up in assembly.

Andhra chief minister apologises to governor

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy Thursday apologised to Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan for the chaos in the legislature, with members tearing up copies of his address to the joint session of both houses.

Terming it as a black day in the history of the state legislature, he told reporters that the …. Read the original article  : here.

Cambodia favours ceasefire with Thailand under ASEAN aegis

PHNOM PENH – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen Thursday said his country will ask Thailand to sign a permanent ceasefire with ASEAN foreign ministers as witnesses or the ASEAN chair during the regional grouping’s foreign ministers’ Feb 22 meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia, as co-signatory.

“It’s better if ASEAN chair (Marty Natalegawa of Indonesia) can …. Source  : Cambodia favours ceasefire with Thailand under ASEAN aegis.

Telangana legislators heckle governor, chaos in Andhra assembly

HYDERABAD – The Andhra Pradesh legislature plunged into unprecedented chaos Thursday, with Telangana legislators heckling Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan as he was addressing a joint session on the first day of the budget session.

Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) members tried to snatch papers from the governor’s hands and uproot mikes, forcing him to cut short his … Read more >>.

Two killed in clashes as protests continue in Yemen

SANAA – At least two protesters have died of gunshot wounds during clashes with police in southern Yemen as anti-government rallies spread across the country.

Besides the two deaths reported in the southern port city of Aden, 14 people were injured in the nationwide protests Wednesday that echoed those in Tunisia, Egypt and some other …. Original source  : Two killed in clashes as protests continue in Yemen.

Cabinet scraps ISRO-Devas deal

NEW DELHI – The government Thursday terminated the deal between Antrix, the commercial arm of space agency ISRO, and private company Antrix on allocation of the S-band spectrum.

The decision was announced by union Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily following a meeting of the cabinet committee on security.
The Comptroller and Auditor General … Read : Cabinet scraps ISRO-Devas deal.

BJP retains Chhattisgarh assembly seat, Congress admits setback

RAIPUR – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Thursday won the Sanjari Balod assembly seat in Chhattisgarh Thursday, prompting celebrations at the ruling party’s headquarters while the opposition Congress admitted that the result was a setback.

BJP’s candidate Kumari Bai Sahu defeated her nearest rival Mohan Patel of the Congress by nearly 9,500 votes. A … Original article on : BJP retains Chhattisgarh assembly seat, Congress admits setback.

Lok Satta chief Jaiprakash manhandled in Andhra assembly

HYDERABAD – Lok Satta party president Jaipraksh Narayan was allegedly manhandled by Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) legislators within the premises of the Andhra Pradesh legislative assembly Thursday.

The incident took place soon after Jaiprakash addressed the media, criticising the disruption of the governor’s address to the joint session of the assembly and council by opposition … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lok Satta chief Jaiprakash manhandled in Andhra assembly.

Teenage belly dancer ‘claims Berlusconi knew her real age’

LONDON – A teenage belly dancer involved in the Silvio Berlusconi sex scandal apparently told prosecutors that the Italian Prime Minister knew she was a minor.

Berlusconi, 74, has been at the centre of lurid allegations involving Moroccan-born Karima El Mahroug and is due to stand trial accused of paying her for sex and abuse of …. Read the original article  : Teenage belly dancer ‘claims Berlusconi knew her real age’.

I’m not worried at all: Berlusconi laughs off looming prostitution trial

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has laughed off the looming prostitution trial he is about to face, saying that he is not worried at all.

Berlusconi, 74, made his first public comments, since being charged, during a news conference on economic themes in Rome, and he also said that he would not be speaking … Read more »».

Telangana legislators force governor to cut short speech

HYDERABAD – There was chaos in the Andhra Pradesh legislature Thursday with Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) members trying to snatch papers from Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan’s hands as he was addressing a joint session of both houses.

The governor had to cut short his speech as legislators of the TRS, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), the … Original article on : Telangana legislators force governor to cut short speech.

Non-cooperation movement begins in Telangana

HYDERABAD – The non-cooperation movement in the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh began Thursday to press for introduction of a bill in parliament for a separate state of Telangana.

Over 300,000 government employees are participating in the indefinite protest called by Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Non-cooperation movement begins in Telangana.

Two die in Libya unrest

TRIPOLI – At least two people were killed in clashes between security forces and demonstrators in the Libyan town of Bayda, east of Benghazi city, as activists planned major anti-government protests throughout the country Thursday.

The deaths come as hundreds of protesters Wednesday reportedly torched police outposts in the eastern city of Bayda while chanting: …. Original source  : Two die in Libya unrest.

Three die in Bahrain as police attack sleeping protesters

MANAMA – Three people in the Bahrain capital were killed in the early hours of Thursday when police in riot gear lobbed teargas canisters and then stormed a roundabout where protesters were sleeping.

The pre-dawn assault took place when the protesters were asleep at Pearl Roundabout, which is the epicentre for demonstrators seeking reform. Many … Original source on Gaea Times at : Three die in Bahrain as police attack sleeping protesters.

Munda wins Jharkhand by-poll, to stay as chief minister

RANCHI – Arjun Munda of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the Kharsawa by-poll in Jharkhand Thursday, clearing the way for him to continue as chief minister.

He won by over 17,000 votes, defeating his nearest rival Krishna Gagarai of the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha-Prajatantrik (JVM-P).
“This is a victory of the people of the …. Source  : Munda wins Jharkhand by-poll, to stay as chief minister.

Thai PM to dissolve parliament before June

BANGKOK – Thailand’s deputy prime minister for security affairs Suthep Thuagsuban reiterated Thursday that Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva had sent a clear signal that parliament should be dissolved before June.

The premier had indicated earlier that he would end his term in April.
“I can guarantee that the parliament dissolution will take place before …. Original source  : Thai PM to dissolve parliament before June.

Republican House hands Obama big victory over new warplane

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has scored a big post election victory with the opposition Republican controlled house voting to cancel $450 million for an alternative engine for the Pentagon’s next-generation warplane.

With 47 Republican newcomers joining Obama’s Democrats, the House Wednesday approved in a 233-198 vote cancellation of funding for a second F-35 … Original article on : Republican House hands Obama big victory over new warplane.

Munda wins Jharkhand by-poll

RANCHI – Arjun Munda won the Kharsawa by poll in Jharkhand by over 17,000 votes Thursday, clearing the way for him to continue as chief minister.

He defeated Krishna Gagarai of the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha-Prajatantrik (JVM-P). Munda secured 71,701 votes while rival Gagarai got 44,335 votes.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Belly dancer cashes in on Berlusconi scandal by appearing semi-clothed in TV ad

LONDON – The teenage belly dancer who is believed to have slept with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has cashed in on the scandal by appearing in an Italian TV advert.

Karima El Mahroug, 18, strips to her underwear in a commercial for The Female Labyrith, a book by a former MEP, reports the Daily Mail.

In … Original source on Gaea Times at : Belly dancer cashes in on Berlusconi scandal by appearing semi-clothed in TV ad.

Gilani hints at pardon by victims’ family to murder-accused US official as solution

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has hinted at a pardon by the victims’ family to double murder-accused US official Raymond Davis.

Speaking to a convention of religious scholars, Gilani suggested that the relatives of two Pakistani men shot dead by Davis might pardon the American, but added that it was for the … Read more »»».

Sexy Russian spy Anna Chapman set to enter politics?

MELBOURNE – Sexy Russian spy Anna Chapman is tipped to run for parliament as a member of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s United Russia party.

Frants Klintsevich, a senior United Russia official, says that Chapman, praised by Putin for her service to the country, is officially a “party supporter” and will be eligible for full membership in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sexy Russian spy Anna Chapman set to enter politics?.

BJP backs demand for separate Telangana state

HYDERABAD – National Democratic Alliance (NDA)-led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday backed the demand for a separate Telangana state.

Addressing a rally here, senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani said that party would not rest till Telangana was formed.

“It is resolve of the Bharatiya Janata Party that we will not rest till Telangana is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP backs demand for separate Telangana state.

Kashmiri youth campaign against police bill on Facebook

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government’s reported move to introduce legislation replacing the old police act and apparently giving more powers to the state police is becoming a rallying point for the youth on social networking websites.

The government is likely to table the new legislation in the upcoming budget session of the assembly, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kashmiri youth campaign against police bill on Facebook.

JMM eyes Jameshedpur Lok Sabha seat after Munda victory

RANCHI – The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) Friday congratulated Chief Minister Arjun Munda, of alliance partner Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), for his victory in the Kharsawa assembly by-poll. It also took the opportunity to ask for Munda’s Jamshedpur Lok Sabha seat.

JMM chief Shibu Soren congratulated Munda and, referring to the coalition dharma, spoke of … Original article on : JMM eyes Jameshedpur Lok Sabha seat after Munda victory.

Iran to stage protests against opposition leaders

TEHRAN/BERLIN – The Iranian authorities Friday are to stage a demonstration against the two main opposition leaders.

More than 200 legislators, several clerical groups and government supporters have called for the arrest and execution of Mir-Hossein Moussavi and Mehdi Karroubi for allegedly undermining the Islamic system and collaborating with foreigners.
Those demands are expected to …. Source article  : Iran to stage protests against opposition leaders.

South Korea sees ‘chance of military provocation’ from North

SEOUL – South Korea’s prime minister said Friday that North Korea’s precarious diplomatic and economic position made renewed attacks a real possibility.

“Seeing the situations in North Korea, there is a chance of its military provocation again,” Kim Hwang Sik was quoted as saying by South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency.
Speaking at an annual meeting … Read more »».

45 killed in Libya protests

CAIRO/TRIPOLI – Libyan security forces were expecting violent demonstrations Friday, a day after an estimated 45 people were killed in clashes across the country.

Online postings by opposition groups called for demonstrations against the country’s ruler of 41 years Muammer Gaddafi to start after Friday prayers.
Violent clashes erupted between demonstrators and security forces …. Source  : 45 killed in Libya protests.

Jagan launches weeklong fast on fee reimbursement issue

HYDERABAD – Former Congress MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Friday launched a weeklong hunger strike here demanding that the Andhra Pradesh government immediately release funds for the reimbursement of students’ fees.

After daylong fasts at Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and New Delhi on farmers’ issues over the last two months, the young leader launched his first … Read more »»».

DMK-PMK in pact for Tamil Nadu elections

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK and the PMK Friday signed an agreement to jointly fight the coming assembly elections, with the PMK allotted 31 seats.

The pact was signed at the residence of DMK president and Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. PMK will also contest one Rajya Sabha seat.
Karunanidhi told reporters later: “I met …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

TRS stalls Andhra assembly for second day

HYDERABAD – A day after unprecedented chaos was witnessed in Andhra Pradesh assembly, the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) Friday stalled the proceedings, demanding the house to pass a resolution urging the central government to table a bill in parliament for the formation of a Telangana state.

Pandemonium prevailed in the house as TRS legislators trooped …. Source  : TRS stalls Andhra assembly for second day.

PM arriving on two-day visit to Assam

GUWAHATI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh arrives in Assam Friday on a two-day visit to inaugurate two major educational institutions and also review the progress of development works and the security situation.

The prime minister is expected to arrive at 2.30 p.m. in Guwahati and straightaway visit the premier Arya Vidyapeeth College in the city …. Source  : PM arriving on two-day visit to Assam.

Malaysian Indian Congress has new secretary general

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), the country’s largest Indian-based party, has a new secretary general in S. Murugessan who was appointed with immediate effect amid speculation of early parliamentary polls.

The move by MIC president G. Palanivel may not go well with S. Samy Vellu, who stepped down recently as the party chief … Read : Malaysian Indian Congress has new secretary general.

UN official to Cuba: Heed events in Egypt, Tunisia

Geneva, Feb 18 (IANS/EFE) The rapporteur of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has asked Cuba to take lessons from recent events in the Arab world to carry out democratic reforms on the communist island.

According to Pastor Elias Murillo Martinez, what has occurred in countries like Egypt and Tunisia constitutes, … Original article on : UN official to Cuba: Heed events in Egypt, Tunisia.

Egypt to celebrate first week without Mubarak

Cairo, Feb 18 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Egypt’s opposition youth movement has called on people of Egypt to stage a million-strong demonstration on Cairo’s central Tahrir Square Friday to mark a week without Hosni Mubarak.

“The revolution has not been concluded yet. It will be concluded after all demands [of the Egyptian people] have been met and …. Read the original article  : here.

Only “authorised ministers” to speak about double murder-accused US official: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has directed that only “authorised ministers” should speak about the issue of double murder-accused US official Raymond Davis, as the matter remains sub judice.

Gilani made these comments while addressing the first session of the newly formed federal cabinet, the Daily Times reports.

He said that his government had …. Original source  : Only “authorised ministers” to speak about double murder-accused US official: Gilani.

Manmohan Singh on two-day visit to Assam from today

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will be on a two-day visit to Assam from Friday, where he is expected to review the prevailing situation and the progress of some of the developmental projects.

During his visit, Dr. Singh will also take stock of the law and order situation in the wake of … Read more : Manmohan Singh on two-day visit to Assam from today.

Berlusconi mag claims ‘bunga bunga sex parties never happened’

LONDON – A magazine owned by Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has fought back allegations that he hosted wild ‘bunga bunga’ sex parties in which escort girls and starlets performed pole dances and strip teases.

The fresh details of the Dec 31, 2008, party at his Costa Smeralda home, Villa Certosa, were published by Chi (’Who’), …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Berlusconi mag claims ‘bunga bunga sex parties never happened’.

Bahrain king hails military crackdown on protesters

MANAMA/TEHRAN – Bahrain’s king has praised the military for its crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in Manama even as he stressed that the government has widened the scope for “peaceful and legal freedom of expression”.

King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa Thursday discussed the raid as well as his government’s ongoing strategy with Commander-in-Chief Marshal Shaikh … Original article on : Bahrain king hails military crackdown on protesters.

Is this the Arab world’s Berlin Wall moment? (Comment)

Over 300 years ago, the English poet John Dryden had warned us against the fury of a patient man. Looks like the anger of the patient Arab is finally beginning to scorch the deserts. From Maghreb in the west to the Levant in the east, raging masses are sweeping the Arabian streets, torching the fortresses … Read : Is this the Arab world’s Berlin Wall moment? (Comment).

CBI raids Kalaignar TV office

CHENNAI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Friday raided the office of Kalaignar TV, promoted by family members of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, in connection with the 2G spectrum allocation scam, sources said.

While CBI officials were unavailable for comment, the company said it would issue a statement later on. …. Original source  : CBI raids Kalaignar TV office.

Eight injured in Jordan protests

AMMAN – At least eight people were injured in clashes between pro and anti-government demonstrators in Jordan’s capital Amman, a media report said Saturday.

Anti-government protests continued Friday as Jordanians took to the streets demanding constitutional reform and more say in decision-making, Al Jazeera reported.
About 2,000 pro-democracy protesters were holding their peaceful weekly …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Eight injured in Jordan protests.

National Conference to take on ‘anti-peace’ forces

JAMMU – The ruling National Conference (NC) will take on the “anti-peace” forces in Jammu and Kashmir and push for a result-oriented India-Pakistan dialogue while simultaneously seeking an end to the era of confusion on Kashmir, a top committee of the party resolved Saturday.

Holding its first Central Working Committee meet in months, the National … Original source on Gaea Times at : National Conference to take on ‘anti-peace’ forces.

Factionalism widens in Chhattisgarh Congress after bypoll loss

RAIPUR – The rivalry within the Chhattisgarh unit of the Congress has escalated after it suffered a crushing defeat in an assembly by-poll where senior party leader Ajit Jogi pulled out from the poll campaign due to an alleged rift with the party organisation.

The Congress suffered a humiliating defeat in the Sanjari Balod assembly …. Original source  : Factionalism widens in Chhattisgarh Congress after bypoll loss.

Telling POTUS to do without TOTUS

WASHINGTON – Someone surely does not like US President Barack Obama’s beloved teleprompter that he famously relies on to make a speech.

An opposition Republican targeted the teleprompter of the President of the United States (POTUS) in a blizzard of House amendments aimed at cutting $100 billion from the federal budget.
The mover, Representative Steve …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Telling POTUS to do without TOTUS.

Vilasrao Deshmukh lashes out at media (Lead, superseding earlier story)

LATUR – Union Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh has lambasted the media for sensationalising trivial issues and giving out half-baked stories.

“Media channels just sit in their offices and hold panel discussions to bring down political leaders,” said Deshmukh, a former Maharashtra chief minister, at a function in the state’s Latur district …. Original article  : Vilasrao Deshmukh lashes out at media (Lead, superseding earlier story).

Congress-Trinamool seat-sharing talks for Bengal soon

NEW DELHI – The Congress wants a “respectable” alliance with the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal to end decades of Left rule, and seat sharing talks for assembly polls will begin within a fortnight, says Congress leader K. Keshava Rao.

“We want a respectable alliance based on our strength and winnability. The cadres should not … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Congress-Trinamool seat-sharing talks for Bengal soon.

Manmohan Singh directs CBI to act against Doordarshan DG, Lalli

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has directed reverting Doordarshan Director General Aruna Sharma to her parent cadre and also seeking explanation from her and the Chief Executive Officer of Prasar Bharati BS Lalli on the allegations made against them.

Dr. Singh referred the Shunglu Committee Report on Host Broadcasting issues relating to the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh directs CBI to act against Doordarshan DG, Lalli.

Vilasrao Deshmukh lashes out at media

LATUR – Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises Vilasrao Deshmukh has lambasted the media for sensationalising trivial issues and giving out half-baked stories.

“Media channels just sit in their offices and hold panel discussions to bring down political leaders,” said Deshmukh, a former Maharashtra chief minister, at a function in the state’s Latur … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vilasrao Deshmukh lashes out at media.

84 killed in Libya protests, says Human Rights Watch

NEW YORK – At least 84 protesters have been killed by Libyan security forces during three days of protests against the regime of Muammer Gaddafi, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said.

The casualty estimate was based on phone interviews with hospital staff and witnesses, the New York-based group said on its website late Friday.
…. Original source  : 84 killed in Libya protests, says Human Rights Watch.

66 injured as troops fire at protesters in Bahrain

MANAMA/LONDON – Troops fired at anti-government protesters in Manama, wounding at least 66 as Bahrain’s king Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa asked his eldest son to start a national dialogue to resolve the worsening political crisis, media reports said.

According to BBC, Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad al-Khalifa, who earlier called on protesters to [..] Read the original article: here.

Guests were naked at Berlusconi’s bunga-bunga parties: Belly dancer

LONDON – A teenage belly dancer at the center of Silvio Berlusconi sex scandal has claimed that guests were naked at the Italian Prime Minister’s infamous bunga bunga parties.

Moroccan born Karima El Mahroug was only 17 when Berlusconi paid her for sex and gave cash and jewellery in return, after attending one of his parties, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Guests were naked at Berlusconi’s bunga-bunga parties: Belly dancer.

Jammu and Kashmir defers police bill to seek public opinion

JAMMU – After a deluge of protests on social networking websites against the proposed Jammu and Kashmir Police Reforms Bill that was to be tabled in the budget session, the state government has deferred the move, an official said Saturday.

The bill will not be presented in the coming budget session of the state legislative … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jammu and Kashmir defers police bill to seek public opinion.

US asks India, Pakistan to support Afghan political process

WASHINGTON – The United States has urged India and Pakistan to support a political process in Afghanistan, saying reconciliation in Afghanistan will depend on the participation and support of its neighbours, particularly Pakistan.

“Indeed, we are encouraged by news that India and Pakistan are re-launching a dialogue aimed at building trust, and we encourage them … Read more : US asks India, Pakistan to support Afghan political process.

Freed Indian fishermen reach home

CHENNAI – All the 136 Indian fishermen released by Sri Lanka reached Tamil Nadu’s Nagapattinam district in 25 boats to a rousing reception Saturday.

The relatives of the freed fishermen shed joyous tears while receiving them.
The fishermen were detained by the Sri Lankan Navy early this week for straying into their waters and were … Read more »».

PM’s Teflon image will wear thin unless guilty punished

It is a measure of the respect which Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues to inspire that he was able to get away without any serious damage to his credibility with admissions at his press conference that would have been politically disastrous for any other politician.

Considering that he acknowledged the governance and ethical “deficits” of …. Source article  : PM’s Teflon image will wear thin unless guilty punished.

Obama urges Bahrain king to show restraint, begin reforms

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama spoke by telephone with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, condemning violence against demonstrators and urging “meaningful reform”, the White House said.

Obama Friday evening “reiterated his condemnation of the violence used against peaceful protesters, and strongly urged the government of Bahrain to show restraint, and to hold those …. Source  : Obama urges Bahrain king to show restraint, begin reforms.

27 dead in fresh protests in Libya: Opposition

CAIRO/TRIPOLI – Renewed protests turned violent across Libya, with opposition activists saying dozens were shot dead during funerals and marches for those killed in anti-government demonstrations earlier this week.

The protests against the rule of Libyan leader Muammer Gaddafi had spread to the capital Tripoli by Friday night. Witnesses reported people taking to the streets … Read more »»».

President Obama Signs New York Disaster Declaration

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of New York and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery …. Read the original article  : President Obama Signs New York Disaster Declaration.

Yemen protesters hit government buildings

SANAA – About 7,000 protesters stormed into two government buildings and a police station in Yemen’s southern port city of Aden and set them on fire, an official said.

The protesters gathered in the neighbouring Shaikh Othman town Friday, rushed to the two local council buildings and a police station and set them on fire, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yemen protesters hit government buildings.

Statement by the President on Senator Jeff Bingaman’s Retirement

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Below please find a statement by President Obama on Senator Jeff Bingaman’s retirement:
“From his time in the Army, to his service as …. Original source  : Statement by the President on Senator Jeff Bingaman’s Retirement.

PM attends speaker’s all-party meeting

NEW DELHI – In a significant gesture, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Sunday joined leaders of all political parties at a luncheon meeting hosted by Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar and hoped for a “fruitful” budget session of parliament that begins Monday.

Manmohan Singh also said that the government is ready to discuss all issues.
The …. Source article  : PM attends speaker’s all-party meeting.

US ordered massacre of the region’s people, says Iran

TEHRAN – The speaker of Iran’s parliament, the Majlis, has said “massacre” of the people in Libya and Bahrain were taking place on the orders of the US.

Ali Larijani, addressing the Majlis’ open session Sunday, said US officials should be made to pay for their crimes against Muslims.
The Islamic Ummah (community) believes the … Read : US ordered massacre of the region’s people, says Iran.

Briton blamed for Bahrain crackdown

MANAMA/TEHRAN – A Briton who is an advisor to Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa has been blamed for the violent crackdown on thousands of pro-democracy protesters in Manama’s Pearl Square, a media report said Sunday.

Ian Henderson had earlier served as the head of Bahrain’s state security for thirty years until 1998, Iran’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Briton blamed for Bahrain crackdown.

‘North Korea preparing for new nuke tests’

SEOUL – South Korean government officials Sunday accused the North of preparing for new nuclear tests, based on intelligence that revealed the digging of special tunnels.

They said the tunnels were being dug at the nuclear site in North Hamgyong province where previous plutonium-fuelled tests were conducted in 2006 and 2009, Yonhap News Agency reported.
Read more >>.

Taj at sunset casts spell over African, Asian ministers

AGRA – The soft glow of the setting sun gently flickered over the Taj Mahal amid faint Quranic chants, evoking sighs of appreciation from hordes of visiting ministers and diplomats from Asia, Africa and Latin America.

Majestic, sublime, beautiful, out of the world – lush adjectives and sonorous heart-filled adoration filled the evening air …. Original article  : Taj at sunset casts spell over African, Asian ministers.

Negotiations on UN reforms to begin in March

NEW DELHI – The next round of inter-governmental negotiations on UN Security Council reforms, in which India has a major stake, is to take place in the first week of March on a new condensed document of three pages.

Zahir Tanin, chair of the inter-governmental negotiations, said the dialogue would begin on the “small text” … Read more : Negotiations on UN reforms to begin in March.

It’s a big, big massacre, says Libyan

CAIRO/TRIPOLI – “It’s a big, big massacre”, said a Libyan businessman who resides in the city of Benghazi as he recalled the brutal crackdown on anti-government protesters by security forces that has left several dead.

Ahmed told Al Jazeera that hospitals were running out of blood as they were overwhelmed with the number of the … Read : It’s a big, big massacre, says Libyan.

Indians in Libya safe: Nirupama Rao

NEW DELHI – Amidst reports of protests being violently put down in Libya, India Sunday assured that all Indians are safe in that country.

“Indians in Libya safe. Embassy in touch with Indians and Indian companies throughout Libya,” Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao posted on her twitter account Sunday morning.
With journalists barred from Libya, reports …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indians in Libya safe: Nirupama Rao.

Berlusconi’s sleazy political generation should retire: Mayor of Florence

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s, who is embroiled in controversies pertaining to his sexcapades, has been slammed by the mayor of Florence, Matteo Renzi.

The 36-year-old said that Berlusconi and his sleazy political generation should retire.

“When Italy hosted international summits in 1994, 2001 and 2009, John Major, Tony Blair and Gordon Brown were Britain’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi’s sleazy political generation should retire: Mayor of Florence.

Ex-aide attacks Sarah Palin in new book

Washington, Feb 20 (IANS/EFE) Frank Bailey, formerly the right hand man of Sarah Palin, ex-governor of Alaska and Republican candidate for vice president of the US in 2008, has attacked his one-time boss in a controversial book of which extracts have been published.

The manuscript has been previewed by certain media such as the Alaska … Original article on : Ex-aide attacks Sarah Palin in new book.

Mid-term poll question haunts Yeddyurappa (Letter from Bangalore)

BANGALORE – Every action of Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa these days turns into a question that haunts him, the latest being that is he readying for a mid-term assembly poll.

Since October-November last year the Bharatiya Janata Party’s first chief minister in south India has been waging a survival battle over allegations of corruption …. Source article  : Mid-term poll question haunts Yeddyurappa (Letter from Bangalore).

Six more die in Yemen protests

SANAA/TEHRAN – At least six people were killed in clashes between government supporters and pro-democracy protesters who are demanding the ouster of Yemen’s President Ali Abdullah Saleh, a media report said.

Four people died during protests in the southern port city of Aden Saturday, and a student was killed in the city of Taiz, …. Read the original article  : here.

Death toll rising in Libyan unrest

BENGHAZI/CAIRO – Reports out of Libya estimate that several dozen more people were killed Saturday during the fourth day of protests against the regime of leader Muammer Gaddafi.

The numbers of dead — which range from 15 to 25 to 200 — appeared to be in addition to the 84 people confirmed dead by Friday …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Death toll rising in Libyan unrest.

Bahrain protesters return to square as military withdraws

CAIRO/MANAMA – Anti-government protesters returned to Lulu Square in Bahraini capital Manama Saturday, despite calls by the crown prince, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, for calm.

Thousands of people headed to the square, which has become the focal point of protests, after the military began to withdraw.
They were carrying Bahraini flags and chanting, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bahrain protesters return to square as military withdraws.

EU concerned over violence in Bahrain

Moscow, Feb 19 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The European Union’s foreign policy chief has voiced concern over the police crackdown on protesters in Bahrain and urged the authorities to respect human rights.

“I am deeply concerned by new reports about the use of violence by the Bahraini security forces and strongly deplore the loss of lives,” [..] Read the original article: here.

After Advani’s regrets to Sonia, BJP seeks to revive Bofors

NEW DELHI – A day after releasing party leader L.K. Advani’s letter to Congress president Sonia Gandhi expressing regret over black money allegations in the party report against her and her family, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday sought to revive the Bofors controversy in which her husband and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi faced …. Original article  : After Advani’s regrets to Sonia, BJP seeks to revive Bofors.

Swami Ramdev supporters flay Congress MP for offensive remarks

NEW DELHI – Supporters of Swami Ramdev Saturday said they will hold shudhi yagna” (purification ceremony) Sunday at the residence of Ninong Ering, Congress MP from Arunachal Pradesh, and not allow him to enter parliament for his “derogatory utterances” against the yoga guru at a camp held in the state.

Patanjali Yogpeeth, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Swami Ramdev supporters flay Congress MP for offensive remarks.

Two killed in Djibouti protest

ADDIS ABABA – Two people were killed in a clash between protesters and police in the northern African country of Djibouti, Xinhua reported.

In a statement, Djibouti’s interior ministry said one protester and one police officer were killed in the confrontations which began Friday. The protest resumed Saturday morning.
Thousands of protesters took to the …. Original source  : Two killed in Djibouti protest.

Tamil Nadu polls: Puthiya Tamizhagam now wants nine seats

CHENNAI – Four days after inking a deal with the AIADMK and accepting to contest two seats in the ensuing assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, the Dalits-backed Puthiya Tamizhagam (PT) Saturday upped its demand to nine seats.

At the district secretaries meeting held here, PT officials were of the view that the party should contest …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mizoram free of gun-running racket, says Chief minister

Shillong, Feb 19 IANS) Chief Minster Lal Thanhawala Saturday claimed Mizoram is a peaceful state and free of gun-running and counterfeit currency rackets.

Yes, smuggling of arms and counterfeiting of Indian currency was a major security concern a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mizoram free of gun-running racket, says Chief minister.

Gaddafi’s son warns of bloody civil war

Tripoli, Feb 21 (IANS/AKI) Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi’s son warned Monday that the country faced a bloody civil war if anti-government protesters refused to accept offers of reform.

Amid reports of growing opposition to Gaddafi’s rule, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi said in a televised speech that his father remained in charge with the army’s backing …. Original article  : Gaddafi’s son warns of bloody civil war.

Achuthanandan’s anti-graft attack only for publicity: Congress

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Congress party’s Kerala unit president Ramesh Chennithala Monday said Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan’s tirades against corruption were nothing but cheap publicity stunt.

In November last year, Achuthanandan wrote a letter to union Home Minister P. Chidhamabaram demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the activities of the lottery mafia operating in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Achuthanandan’s anti-graft attack only for publicity: Congress.

Libya’s envoy to India resigns in protest

NEW DELHI -Libya’s ambassador to India Ali al-Essawi has resigned to protest his government’s crackdown on demonstrators calling for the ouster of long-time Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, the BBC reported.

The BBC, on its Arabic service website, said the Libyan envoy also accused his government of deploying foreign mercenaries against the protesters.
When contacted, …. Original article  : Libya’s envoy to India resigns in protest.

Violence in parts of Hyderabad during Telangana protests

HYDERABAD – Violence rocked parts of Hyderabad Monday as pro-Telangana students went berserk, setting afire a local train, ransacking a railway station and clashing with police in several areas.

The Osmania University students’ march to the assembly building turned violent as a group of protestors set afire a Multi-Modal Transport System (MMTS) train coach at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Violence in parts of Hyderabad during Telangana protests.

Protesters camp at square in Bahrain capital

MANAMA – Defiant demonstrators continued to camp at a roundabout in the Bahrain’s capital Manama as a determined protester Monday reiterated: “All the people of Bahrain, they don’t want the government of Bahrain”.

Al-Jazeera reported that hundreds of protesters were congregated at the Pearl roundabout, which has been the focal point of the unrest that …. Source  : Protesters camp at square in Bahrain capital.

PM’s interaction with television editors was a ‘wretched exercise’: Jayalalithaa

CHENNAI – All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) supremo J Jayalalithaa on Monday criticized the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, saying his comments during an interaction with top television editors of the country was a ‘wretched exercise’, where he kept blaming ‘compromises’ imposed by ‘coalition dharma’ for most of the failings of the government.

Jayalalithaa, … Original source on Gaea Times at : PM’s interaction with television editors was a ‘wretched exercise’: Jayalalithaa.

Berlusconi’s ???200K gifts given to underage prostitute revealed

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s 24 gifts worth almost 200,000 pounds given to the teenage dancer at the centre of the under age prostitution charge against him, have emerged.

Berlusconi, 74, is said to have given Karima El-Mahroug, better known as Ruby the Heart Stealer, two Rolex watches, one of which was worth 50,000 … Read more »».

‘China could have social turmoil if public governance fails’

BEIJING – China has many problems, said a Chinese daily as it warned that “in theory, it is not totally unfeasible that the nation could fall into social turmoil should its public governance fail”.

The editorial appeared in the state-run Global Times Monday, a day after protesters inspired by the popular unrest in Egypt and … Read : ‘China could have social turmoil if public governance fails’.

Bangladesh asks Canada to deport Mujib killer

DHAKA – Bangladesh has asked Canada to deport a former army colonel who is one of the six fugitive convicts in the 1975 assassination of Bangladesh’s founding president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Foreign Minister Dipu Moni conveyed the request to her Canadian counterpart Lawrence Cannon at a meeting in Ottawa last week.
A senior foreign …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bangladesh asks Canada to deport Mujib killer.

Libyan diplomat to China quits

CAIRO – A senior Libyan diplomat in China resigned Monday and called on his country’s army to intervene in the political unrest, Al-Jazeera said.

The diplomat, Hussein Sadiq al Musrati, resigned on air while taling to Al-Jazeera Arabic.
Musrati called on the Libyan army to intervene, and called all diplomatic staff to … Read more »».

Tackling corruption, inflation priority, says President Patil (Third Lead)

NEW DELHI – Combating inflation and tackling corruption would be among the top priorities of the government, President Pratibha Patil said inaugurating the budget session of parliament Monday.

“My government’s foremost priority will be to address frontally the concern regarding the lack of probity and integrity in public life,” Patil said in her 45-minute address …. Source  : Tackling corruption, inflation priority, says President Patil (Third Lead).

Strike balance between environment, development: Patil

NEW DELHI – India must find ways to strike an appropriate balance between environmental concerns and developmental needs, President Pratibha Patil said Monday.

“The government attaches the highest importance to the implementation of all laws relating to the protection of the environment and forests. The rapid pace of economic growth is imposing new challenges and … Read : Strike balance between environment, development: Patil.

State funding of elections being examined: President

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Monday said the government has constituted a committee to fast-track the process of electoral reforms and a Group of Ministers (GoM) was considering issues related to state funding of elections.

“I am sure that all parties across the political spectrum support the need of bringing about such reforms,” Patil …. Read the original article  : here.

Osmania University tense as Telangana students begin march

HYDERABAD – Defying ban on gathering of people, hundreds of students of Osmania University Monday began their march to the Andhra Pradesh state assembly complex to demand a bill in parliament for carving out a separate Telangana state.

Tension prevailed at the university campus as a large number of police and paramilitary personnel were … Original source on Gaea Times at : Osmania University tense as Telangana students begin march.

Manmohan Singh hopes Budget session will be peaceful, productive

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, today said the Budget session of Parliament is very crucial and hoped the proceedings would be peaceful.

” This Budget session of Parliament is very crucial. We hope to bring some important pieces of legislation for consideration of Parliament,” he told reporters at Parliament House.

Government …. Read the original article  : here.

Andhra assembly stalled over members’ suspension

HYDERABAD – The stalemate in the Andhra Pradesh state assembly over the Telangana issue Monday continued as opposition parties stuck to their demand for revoking the suspension of five legislators.

Deputy Speaker Nadenla Manohar adjourned the house twice amid pandemonium as the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) members stalled the …. Source  : Andhra assembly stalled over members’ suspension.

PM hopes budget session will be peaceful

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh hoped that the budget session of parliament that began Monday would be “peaceful and productive”.

“The budget session is very crucial. (It) has to be debated, passed. We hope to bring important pieces of legislation for consideration of parliament. Our sincere hope is that this session will be …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

A second Arab revolution – for a new social order (Comment)

The uprising in Egypt, and in Tunisia before it, and the current ferment in the Middle East, is much more than just a random eruption or two of public discontent with stray military dictators and corrupt politicians today. It is the commencement of the second wave of the Arab liberation movement. In the first …. Original article  : A second Arab revolution – for a new social order (Comment).

India welcomes democracy in Egypt, elsewhere: Patil

NEW DELHI – Welcoming the dawn of democracy elsewhere in the world, President Pratibha Patil Monday referred to the “momentous developments” in Egypt.

Egypt has recently seen momentous developments. As a democracy ourselves, we welcome the dawn of democracy elsewhere, she said in her address to the joint session of parliament at the beginning …. Original source  : India welcomes democracy in Egypt, elsewhere: Patil.

Egyptian man names daughter Facebook to mark revolt

LONDON – An Egyptian man has named his new daughter Facebook to mark his country’s recent revolution.

Jamal Ibrahim, who is in his 20s, named his daughter after the social networking site because he was so happy with the role played by the site in organising protests in Egyptian cities, Daily Mail reported Sunday citing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Egyptian man names daughter Facebook to mark revolt.

Are the troubles over JPC over?

NEW DELHI – The government’s decision to agree to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G scam may lead to another row – who will form the panel which can even question the Indian prime minister.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday promised in the Lok Sabha that the government will set up a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Are the troubles over JPC over?.

Libyan officers urge troops to oust Gaddafi

Cairo, Feb 22 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A group of Libyan army officers has urged the military to “join the people” and march on the capital Tripoli to oust long-time ruler Muammar Gaddafi, Al Jazeera said Tuesday.

Libya’s airspace was briefly closed late Monday but opened in the early hours of Saturday, allowing an Austrian army transport …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Canadian shelter for Mujib’s killer angers media

TORONTO – The Canadian media has slammed the government for not deporting Bangladeshi fugitive Nur Chowdhury who shot dead Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his extended family in in the August 1975 coup.

A 24-year-old major at that time, Chowdhury has been living in the Etobicoke area of Toronto since 1996.
The 61-year-old assassin, who …. Original source  : Canadian shelter for Mujib’s killer angers media.

Sri Lanka refuses entry to Indian politicians

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka has denied access to three Indian politicians who arrived here to take part in the funeral of the slain Tamil Tigers chief’s mother.

The unnamed politicians landed at Sri Lanka’s international airport at Katunayake, near Colombo, but were denied entry, Xinhua reported.
The funeral of Parvathi Velupillai, who passed away Sunday … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka refuses entry to Indian politicians.

Budget session of Bihar assembly begins

PATNA – The month-long budget session of the Bihar assembly began here Tuesday with opposition members raising slogans against the government on issues like corruption and deteriorating law and order.

The session began with the customary address by the Bihar governor to the joint sitting of the state legislature.
Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal, Lok Janshakti … Original source on Gaea Times at : Budget session of Bihar assembly begins.

Hasina draws flak for poor law and order, high prices

DHAKA – Just over two years into office, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is facing dissent and criticism from some of the party veterans and alliance partners for poor law and order and high prices of essential commodities.

While main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been unrelenting in its criticism of the Hasina government, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cameron branded a disgrace for taking arms dealers on Egypt visit

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron was last night branded a ‘disgrace’ after it emerged that he has taken eight defence firms with him on a four-day visit to the Middle East.

Cameron is the first world leader to visit Egypt since the historic overthrow of President Mubarak.

Cameron said he wanted to offer Britain’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cameron branded a disgrace for taking arms dealers on Egypt visit.

Kashmir’s economic potential should be tapped, interlocutors told

JAMMU – The three interlocutors on Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday got a taste of a traditional Kashmiri breakfast and also a new suggestion – that “economic self-sufficiency” is the way forward for the state.

At a breakfast meeting with the interlocutors, Agriculture Minister and president of Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Party (Nationalist) Ghulam Hassan Mir … Read more : Kashmir’s economic potential should be tapped, interlocutors told.

Libya bloodshed: Defiant Gaddafi says he is in Tripoli

CAIRO/TRIPOLI – Scotching rumours, a defiant Muammar Gaddafi, one of Arab world’s longest ruling leader, appeared on the state TV and insisted he was “in Tripoli and not in Venezuela” Tuesday, a day after a bloody crackdown saw the military launch an airstrike on protesters.

The 68-year-old Gaddafi, who as a young army officer …. Original article  : Libya bloodshed: Defiant Gaddafi says he is in Tripoli.

BJP welcomes PM’s announcement on JPC

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday welcomed Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s announcement on agreeing to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam.

Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj thanked the Prime Minister for the announcement, describing it as a victory for democracy.

“We should not see this as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BJP welcomes PM’s announcement on JPC.

Christchurch quake toll rises to 65

CHRISTCHURCH – New Zealand Prime Minister John Key on Tuesday said that so far, 65 people have died as a result of the 6.3 Richter Scale earthquake in Christchurch.

Speaking from Christchurch after flying down this afternoon, the New Zealand Herald quoted Key as telling One News that it was likely the quake would prove to …. Source  : Christchurch quake toll rises to 65.

Shutdown in Kashmir to protest curbs on Geelani in Delhi

SRINAGAR – A shutdown called by the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference Tuesday to protest alleged curbs on separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani in Delhi affected normal life in the Kashmir Valley.

The hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference said in a statement that Delhi Police had barred its chairman Syed Ali Geelani … Read more »»».

If Raja wants to join debate, will consider: Meira Kumar

NEW DELHI – Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar Tuesday said she will consider if former communications minister A. Raja, now lodged in Delhi’s high-security Tihar Jail, applies to participate in debate on 2G scam in the house.

“Let the request come … then we will consider it,” Kumar told reporters outside Parliament House.
Raja … Read more »»».

PM announces JPC probe in 2G scam

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, today announced the formation of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

Addressing the Lok Sabha, Dr. Singh said: “The Winter Session was lost and the country cannot afford to lose another session. Our Government is committed to root out corruption.”

“The Government is …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Under pressure, PM announces JPC into 2G scam (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Giving in to the opposition pressure, the government Tuesday announced the setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe alleged irregularities into the allotment of 2G spectrum.

On the second day of the budget session, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asked Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar to start the process to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Under pressure, PM announces JPC into 2G scam (Second Lead).

Telangana impasse continues in Andhra assembly

HYDERABAD – The Andhra Pradesh assembly remained paralysed for the third consecutive day Tuesday as Telangana legislators stalled proceedings, demanding the house pass a resolution for formation of a separate state for their region.

Deputy Speaker Nadendla Manohar had to adjourn the house twice amid uproar by the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS), Communist Party of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Telangana impasse continues in Andhra assembly.

PM agrees to JPC probe, says parliament can’t be paralysed

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday agreed to the opposition’s demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam, saying the country could not afford a paralysed parliament.

“It is in these special circumstances that our government agrees to setting up of JPC,” Manmohan Singh told the Lok Sabha, …. Original source  : PM agrees to JPC probe, says parliament can’t be paralysed.

This is victory of democracy: BJP on JPC

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janta Party Tuesday welcomed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s announcement of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam as “victory of democracy”.

“This is not the victory of ruling or opposition benches. This is the victory of democracy,” said Sushma Swaraj, leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Manmohan Singh agrees to JPC on 2G spectrum scam

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday announced that a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) would be set up to investigate alleged irregularities in the allocation of 2G spectrum to telecom firms.

“It is in this special circumstances that our government agrees to setting up of special JPC,” Manmohan Singh told the Lok Sabha, asking … Original article on : Manmohan Singh agrees to JPC on 2G spectrum scam.

Gaddafi appears on TV, scotches rumours of fleeing

TRIPOLI – Muammar Gaddafi said Tuesday during a brief appearance on state television that he was “in Tripoli and not in Venezuela”, scotching swirling rumours that the 68-year-old Libyan leader had fled following a massive unrest.

“I am in Tripoli and not in Venezuela. Do not believe the channels belonging to stray dogs,” Gaddafi told …. Source article  : Gaddafi appears on TV, scotches rumours of fleeing.

Bahrain free prisoners, king leaves for Saudi Arabia

MANAMA/RIYADH – Bahrain has released 25 political prisoners following an order of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa who left the country for Saudi Arabia for consultations Wednesday after a week of anti-regime protests.

CNN reported that about 25 detainees, described by the king as “prisoners of conscience”, were released Tuesday night and proceedings against … Read : Bahrain free prisoners, king leaves for Saudi Arabia.

Congress MPs add to Telangana chorus, disrupt Lok Sabha (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Noisy scenes and repeated disruptions returned to the Lok Sabha Wednesday as some MPs, including from the ruling Congress, shouted slogans and flashed placards demanding that the government table a bill for a separate Telangana state to be carved out of Andhra Pradesh.

While the Lok Sabha witnessed frequent disruptions, there was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Congress MPs add to Telangana chorus, disrupt Lok Sabha (Second Lead).

India, Sri Lanka to discuss attacks on fishermen: Krishna

NEW DELHI – The India-Sri Lanka joint working group on fisheries will meet next month to resolve issues relating to the Sri Lankan Navy’s attacks on Indian fishermen, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna told the Lok Sabha Wednesday.

Incidents in the last two months had caused much consternation and concern in India and the …. Source article  : India, Sri Lanka to discuss attacks on fishermen: Krishna.

Probe ordered in irregularities in Roerich trust

SHIMLA – The Himachal Pradesh government has ordered a probe into allegations of financial irregularities and mismanagement in the International Roerich Memorial Trust (IRMT), which takes care of Russian painter and philosopher Nicholas Roerich’s estate in Kullu district, officials said here Wednesday.

“Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal on Tuesday constituted a one-man committee to look …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Probe ordered in irregularities in Roerich trust.

Strike cripples Greece as workers take to the streets

ATHENS – Government offices shut, shops pulled down their shutters and flights were cancelled across Greece Wednesday in a 24-hour nationwide strike, piling pressure on the government as it struggles to battle its budget-deficit crisis.

The strike, called by the country’s biggest public and private sector unions, saw schools and public transport to be disrupted …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Strike cripples Greece as workers take to the streets.

Telangana issue rocks Andhra assembly again, 12 members suspended

HYDERABAD – The Telangana issue rocked the Andhra Pradesh assembly for the fourth consecutive day Wednesday as 12 Telangana legislators were suspended from the house for one day for stalling the proceedings, demanding that the house pass a resolution for the formation of a separate state.

Deputy Speaker Nadendla Manohar announced the suspension of eight … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Telangana issue rocks Andhra assembly again, 12 members suspended.

Planning to evacuate Indians from troubled Libya: Krishna

NEW DELHI – India is planning to evacuate its nationals stranded in Libya, which has been hit by a political turmoil over anti-government protests seeking ouster of strongman Muammar Gaddafi.

The plans for possible evacuation through land, air and sea are at present being worked out, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna told the Lok …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Open letters call for protests in more Chinese cities

BEIJING – Open letters circulated online Wednesday called for weekly anti-government protests from Sunday in 18 Chinese cities, adding five cities including the capitals of two volatile western regions.

The letters originated from the US-based Chinese pro-democracy website Boxun.com and urged people to gather at designated places in the 18 cities from 2 p.m. each … Original source on Gaea Times at : Open letters call for protests in more Chinese cities.

Opposition hurls more allegations at Achuthanandan’s son

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala opposition Wednesday accused Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan’s son of taking money from the sandalwood mafia, and continued to level corruption allegations against him in the assembly for the second day.

When the chief minister flatly refuted the allegations, the opposition staged a walkout in the assembly.
Congress legislator K. Babu sought …. Source  : Opposition hurls more allegations at Achuthanandan’s son.

Two students dead in Yemen as protests continue

SANA’A – At least two youths were shot dead by government supporters during a protest at a university in the capital city of Yemen, which is facing mass unrest against President Ali Abdullah Saleh for nearly two weeks.

The two young men were killed in a clash Tuesday night at Sana’a University, the New York …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two students dead in Yemen as protests continue.

Afzal Gurus mercy petition not yet sent to president

NEW DELHI – The mercy petition for Afzal Guru, convicted and sentenced to death for his role in the Parliament House attack, has not yet been forwarded to President Pratibha Patil, Home Minister P. Chidambaram disclosed here Wednesday.

In reply to a question by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader S.S. Ahluwalia in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afzal Gurus mercy petition not yet sent to president.

Arab regimes facing risk of breeding Gen Next of Muslim extremists: Cameron

KUWAIT CITY – British Prime Minister David Cameron has warned Arab regimes that they face the risk of breeding a new generation of Muslim extremists if they continue to maintain an iron grip on their respective populations.

Cameron, who is currently visiting Kuwait, appealed to Arab governments to do more to tackle the simmering discontent that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Arab regimes facing risk of breeding Gen Next of Muslim extremists: Cameron.

12 Telangana legislators suspended from Andhra assembly

HYDERABAD – Twelve Telangana legislators were suspended from the Andhra Pradesh assembly for one day Wednesday as they stalled the proceedings, demanding the house to pass a resolution for the formation of a separate Telangana state.

Deputy Speaker Nadendla Manohar announced the suspension of eight legislators of the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) and four of …. Original source  : 12 Telangana legislators suspended from Andhra assembly.

US envoy to meet Dalai Lama in Dharamsala

DHARAMSALA – US Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer is set to meet Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama during a two-day visit to Dharamsala, officials said Wednesday.

Confirming Roemer’s visit, Chimme Choekyappa, private secretary to the Dalai Lama, told IANS: “The US ambassador is reaching Dharamsala today (Wednesday) and he is scheduled to meet His …. Read the original article  : US envoy to meet Dalai Lama in Dharamsala.

NC to move resolution for solution of Kashmir issue

JAMMU – The ruling National Conference (NC) in Jammu and Kashmir will move a resolution in the forthcoming budget session of the state assembly seeking the resolution of the Kashmir issue at the earliest.

The main opposition Peoples Democratic Party has held rallies and raised a pitch over the resolution of the Kashmir issue.
Original source on Gaea Times at : NC to move resolution for solution of Kashmir issue.

Congress MPs from Telangana disrupt Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – Noisy scenes and frequent disruptions returned to the Lok Sabha Tuesday as some Congress members Wednesday shouted slogans and flashed placards demanding that a Telangana state be carved out of Andhra Pradesh.

Congress MPs Ponnam Prabhakar, M. Jagannath, G. Vivekanand and others from the Telangana region shouted slogans as soon as the …. Original article  : Congress MPs from Telangana disrupt Lok Sabha.

Telangana protests force Lok Sabha disruption

NEW DELHI – Pro-Telangana MPs Wednesday shouted slogans and flashed placards demanding that a new state be carved out of Andhra Pradesh, disrupting question hour in the Lok Sabha.

Speaker Meira Kumar adjourned the house as the MPs persisted with their noisy protests demanding that the house should first discuss the issue.
Meira Kumar adjourned …. Original source  : Telangana protests force Lok Sabha disruption.

Ex Obama aide wins Chicago mayoral vote

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama’s former chief of staff Rahm Emanuel has won the mayoral election in his home town Chicago over five other challengers, topping the 50 percent threshold to avoid a runoff vote.

With almost 75 percent of the vote counted, Emanuel, who quit his White House job last year to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ex Obama aide wins Chicago mayoral vote.

UN concerned over violence in Libya

United Nations, Feb 23 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The UN is concerned by Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi’s call on his supporters to take to the streets, UN Undersecretary General for Political Affairs Lynn Pascoe said.

Gaddafi said defiantly in a televised address to the nation Tuesday that he would not quit despite a countrywide uprising, was ready … Read more »»».

Omar to meet Chidambaram

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will meet union Home Minister P. Chidambaram in New Delhi Wednesday to discuss the situation in the state.

Chidambaram, who is closely monitoring the developments in the state along with the chief minister, would also share the central government’s inputs, according to sources in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Omar to meet Chidambaram.

Congress presents proof against Achuthanandan’s son

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala’s Congress-led opposition Thursday took up Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan’s challenge and presented a book which reportedly shows his son V. Arunkumar asking for a bribe to allow a power project to be set up in the state.

It was late Wednesday after a cabinet meeting that Achuthanandan dared the opposition to stop …. Source  : Congress presents proof against Achuthanandan’s son.

Yemeni leader orders troops to protect protesters, loyalists

SANA’A – Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh has ordered the country’s security forces to protect protesters trying to force him out of power and loyalists alike, a media report said Thursday.

Yemen, one of the world’s poorest countries, has been hit by mass anti-government riots for nearly two weeks demanding the end of Saleh’s 30-year … Read : Yemeni leader orders troops to protect protesters, loyalists.

JPC motion moved in Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee Thursday moved a motion in the Lok Sabha to set up a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to probe the alleged irregularities in the 2G spectrum allocation and also to look into the telecom policy in vogue from 1998 to 2009.
Read more : JPC motion moved in Lok Sabha.

Bahrain’s opposition lists demands as protests rise

MANAMA – An umbrella group of seven main opposition parties in Bahrain outlined its key demands Thursday as the anti-regime unrest intensified with protesters calling for a nationwide strike and the government’s ouster.

The demands by the grouping of seven opposition parties, including major Shia bloc Al-Wefaq as well as secular groups, include …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bahrain’s opposition lists demands as protests rise.

Telangana activists torch railway coach in Warangal

WARANGAL – The row over the creation of a separate state of Telangana out of Andhra Pradesh took an ugly turn when activists of the youth wing of the Communist Party of India (CPI) set the rake of a passenger train on fire at the Warangal railway station in Andhra Pradesh.

The incident took place on …. Source article  : Telangana activists torch railway coach in Warangal.

RTI activist’s killing sets off row in Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – Question hour in the Rajya Sabha ended five minutes before time Thursday following noisy scenes when a Congress MP alleged a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader in Gujarat was involved in the killing of RTI activist Amit Jethva.

Asking supplementaries on a question on the Right to Information (RTI), Congress MP …. Source article  : RTI activist’s killing sets off row in Rajya Sabha.

India ’sincerely’ hopes for peace with Pakistan: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday said his government was willing to resolve all issues with Pakistan.

“We are willing to resolve all outstanding issues with Pakistan We sincerely hope Pakistan will grasp our hand of friendship,” Manmohan Singh said in the Lok Sabha while replying to the debate on the motion of …. Source  : India ’sincerely’ hopes for peace with Pakistan: PM.

Cabinet not informed of S-band commitment in ISRO-Devas deal: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Thursday that the cabinet had not been informed that the 2005 agreement between ISRO’s commercial arm Antrix and Devas also involved allocation of S-band spectrum, high value and scarce radiowaves, to the private firm.

Replying to supplementaries during question hour in the Rajya Sabha, the prime … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cabinet not informed of S-band commitment in ISRO-Devas deal: PM.

Kerala assembly ends session amid accusations of graft

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The 12th Kerala assembly ended the last day of its session on a tumultuous note Thursday, with both the treasury and opposition benches trading accusations of corruption, forcing the speaker to finish the day’s business in a flash.

Soon after question hour, the opposition sought to move an adjournment motion on the disclosure …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Thousands of Bangladeshi workers trapped in Libya

DHAKA – Bangladesh has sought help from international organisations for thousands of its nationals trapped in Libya.

An estimated 50,000 Bangladeshis are working in Libya and most of them are low paid construction workers.
Dhaka has sought assistance from the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Organisation on Migration (IOM). … Original source on Gaea Times at : Thousands of Bangladeshi workers trapped in Libya.

Cabinet not informed of S-band allocation in Antrix-Devas deal: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday said the cabinet was not informed that the 2005 agreement between ISRO’s commercial arm Antrix and Devas also involved allocation of S-band spectrum to the private firm.

Replying to supplementaries during question hour in the Rajya Sabha, the prime minister said the cabinet note dealing with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US envoy begins talks with Dalai Lama

DHARAMSALA – US Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer began closed-door talks with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama here Thursday, an official said.

“The talks between the Dalai Lama and US Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer began at the official palace of the Dalai Lama at around 10 a.m,” the official said, adding that only close aides … Read : US envoy begins talks with Dalai Lama.

Davis case mishandled by interior ministry: Qureshi

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has accused the interior ministry of “mishandling” the case of US official Raymond Davis, who faces trial for killing two Pakistanis, by not letting the matter be confined to his ministry.

“The Raymond Davis case was mishandled because interior ministry was made the focal point instead … Original article on : Davis case mishandled by interior ministry: Qureshi.

Sarah Palin plans March trip to India

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin will be making a trip to India in March to speak at the India Today 2011 conclave in New Delhi, according to media reports citing a Palin aide.

The 2008 vice presidential candidate Palin, who is weighing a possible 2012 run for the Republican presidential nomination, is set …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Arms sales can boost India-US ties: US experts

WASHINGTON – With India planning to buy $100 billion worth of new weapons over the next 10 years, arms sales may be the best way for the US to revive stagnating US-India relations, according to two US experts.

Even as non-military trade and investment and social and cultural ties between India and the US have …. Original source  : Arms sales can boost India-US ties: US experts.

India reiterates commitment to peacekeeping

UNITED NATIONS – Noting that India has partnered UN peacekeeping since its inception in the 1950s, India has reiterated its commitment to the furtherance of international peace and security as UN partner.

“India today has the expertise, willingness and means to support peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts,” India’s deputy permanent UN representative, Manjeev Singh Puri …. Original article  : India reiterates commitment to peacekeeping.

Didn’t arm protesters, Berlusconi tells Gaddafi

Rome, Feb 24 (IANS/AKI) Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has telephoned Libya’s leader Muammar Gaddafi to deny that Italy had armed anti-government demonstrators with rockets.

According to a statement issued by Berlusconi’s office, the call was made following a televised afternoon address by the embattled Gaddafi, in which he said he would never resign and …. Original source  : Didn’t arm protesters, Berlusconi tells Gaddafi.

Ahmadinejad condemns civilian killings in Libya

Tehran, Feb 24 (IANS/AKI) Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has condemned the killings of protesters in Libya and called on the Libyan government to respect the people’s will.

Demands for change shaking the Middle East would end the oppression of “arrogant” powers and would reach other continents like Europe or America unless discrimination and military … Read more »»».

Is Parrikar going soft on ruling Goa Congress? (News Analysis)

PANAJI – Goa Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manohar Parrikar seems to share the predicament of party stalwart L.K. Advani when it comes to stopping short of landing a killer punch on the Congress.

Advani last week apologised and distanced himself from the claims of a party task force, which suggested that Congress president Sonia …. Source article  : Is Parrikar going soft on ruling Goa Congress? (News Analysis).

Bahrain protesters call for strike to oust government

Manama, Feb 24 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Protesters in Bahrain will stage more demonstrations and a nationwide strike if the government refuses to resign Thursday.

Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has agreed to withdraw troops from the streets of Manama and pardon political prisoners in a move to appease protesters.
Most of the protesters are …. Original article  : Bahrain protesters call for strike to oust government.

Kerala opposition to seek governor’s intervention

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Congress-led opposition in Kerala will urge Governor R.S. Gavai to order an inquiry into the allegations against Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan and his son, a party leader said Friday.

Addressing reporters here after a late Thursday meeting of the United Democratic Front (UDF) liaison committee meeting, convenor P.P. Thankachan said the UDF …. Original source  : Kerala opposition to seek governor’s intervention.

Chinese railway minister sacked for indiscipline

BEIJING – Chinese Railway Minister Liu Zhijun was Friday sacked from his post for “severe violation of discipline”, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the top legislature of China, Friday decided to dismiss Liu, 58, from his post, Xinhua said.
The discipline watchdog of the ruling Communist Party of … Read more »».

China blocks LinkedIn amid calls for ‘jasmine’ revolution

BEIJING – China has ramped up its online censorship efforts, with LinkedIn, a social networking site for professionals, the latest site to be blocked as authorities apparently move to snuff out efforts to organise anti-government protests.

Attempts from Beijing to reach the LinkedIn website failed Friday, with the internet browser displaying an error message. Some … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China blocks LinkedIn amid calls for ‘jasmine’ revolution.

Chinese railway minister sacked for indiscipline

BEIJING – Chinese Railway Minister Liu Zhijun was Friday sacked from his post for “severe violation of discipline”, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the top legislature of China, Friday decided to dismiss Liu, 58, from his post, Xinhua said.
The discipline watchdog of the ruling Communist Party of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chinese railway minister sacked for indiscipline.

Protesters gather for ‘Iraqi Rage’ demos

BAGHDAD – Thousands of Iraqi protesters gathered in central Baghdad Friday amid tight security, demanding economic reforms, jobs and an end to corruption.

More people were expected to head towards Baghdad’s Tahrir square after Friday prayers to take part in what has been dubbed as the “Revolution of Iraqi Rage”.
In the southern city of … Read : Protesters gather for ‘Iraqi Rage’ demos.

BASIC countries meet to discuss climate change

NEW DELHI – Environment ministers from BASIC countries – Brazil, South Africa, India and China – will meet in the capital from Saturday to assess the post-Cancun climate change policy and discuss coordination for talks in Durban conference in December 2011.

The Saturday conclave is significant …. Source  : BASIC countries meet to discuss climate change.

Mamata recites Lata’s song

NEW DELHI – A gentle nudge from Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar made Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee recite the famous Hindi song sung by Lata Mangeshkar about the contribution of the defence forces that had made India’s first prime minister shed tears.

As Banerjee, wearing a white coloured sari with green border, announced sops for …. Source  : Mamata recites Lata’s song.

BJP seeks inquiry into attack on workers

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Friday demanded a judicial inquiry into the police attack on its workers here that it said left many seriously injured.

Raising the issue during zero hour in the Rajya Sabha, BJP leader M. Venkaiah Naidu alleged that party workers, including Delhi unit president Vijender Gupta, were attacked … Original source on Gaea Times at : BJP seeks inquiry into attack on workers.

Tension grips Nepalis in Middle East

KATHMANDU – Tens of thousands of Nepalis working in the Middle East and north Africa were mired in fear and tension following sweeping unrest across the region.

With violence and turmoil gripping Egypt, Bahrain, Yemen and Libya, thousands of blue-collar Nepali workers, who keep the fragile republic’s economy alive by sending money home from abroad, … Read : Tension grips Nepalis in Middle East.

Opponents say Thai PM can lose job over British citizenship acknowledgement

BANGKOK – The political opponents of Thailand Prime Minister Abhisit Vejajjiva have said that he could lose his job over his acknowledgement that he also retains a British citizenship.

Yesterday, Vejajjiva had publicly acknowledged his dual nationality for the first time during a debate in Parliament, the Daily Mail reports.

The 46-year-old leader automatically holds …. Source article  : Opponents say Thai PM can lose job over British citizenship acknowledgement.

5,000 Nepalis in plight in Libya, says report

KATHMANDU – Tens of thousands of Nepalis working in the Middle East and north Africa were mired in fear and mounting tension following sweeping unrest across teh region.

With violence and turmoil gripping Egypt, Bahrain, Yemen and Libya, thousands of blue-collar Nepali workers, who keep the fragile republic’s economy alive by sending money home from …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 5,000 Nepalis in plight in Libya, says report.

Telangana trouble continues in Andhra assembly

HYDERABAD – The Andhra Pradesh assembly was adjourned twice Friday as Telangana legislators continued to stall proceedings demanding a resolution for creating a separate Telangana state.

No business could be conducted as members of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) and Telangana legislators from the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) raised slogans and rushed towards the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Telangana trouble continues in Andhra assembly.

Pranab loses cool, Lok Sabha adjourned

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee shouted at, but later apologised to opposition members in the Lok Sabha Friday when some of them interrupted him while he was replying to a question on black money stashed by Indians in foreign banks. A ruckus followed, prompting Speaker Meira Kumar to briefly adjourn the house.

“Don’t … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pranab loses cool, Lok Sabha adjourned.

Gaddafi’s daughter denies fleeing her country

Tripoli, Feb 25 (IANS/AKI) Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafis’ daughter has denied reports by Arabic media that she had fled to Malta amid serious unrest in her North African country.

Speaking on state television, Aisha Gaddafi Thursday dismissed reports she had left the country as “foreign lies”.
“I say to the Libyan people who … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gaddafi’s daughter denies fleeing her country.

Gaddafi’s son seeks friend Tony Blair’s “diplomatic” assistance in ‘crushing their enemies’

TRIPOLI – Colonel Gaddafi’s son has urged former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to utilise his “diplomatic skills” in helping his father’s regime in ‘crushing their enemies’.

A close ally of Saif Gaddafi has reportedly urged Blair to help Libya to attain stability.

“He is peacemaker in the Middle East, and should be able to …. Source  : Gaddafi’s son seeks friend Tony Blair’s “diplomatic” assistance in ‘crushing their enemies’.

Take to the streets, internet groups urge Iraqis

BAGHDAD – Internet groups on Facebook have urged Iraqis to take to streets Friday to “end corruption and sectarianism in Iraq”. The call has come exactly a month after the uprising began in Egypt that ended the nearly 31-year rule of Hosni Mubarak.

A post on a Facebook page said that “February 25 is the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Take to the streets, internet groups urge Iraqis.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Telangana

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon Friday over the issue of separate statehood for Telangana.

As soon as the house met, members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other opposition parties were on their feet demanding that the issue be raised in the house.
The situation is …. Read the original article  : Rajya Sabha adjourned over Telangana.

Parliament reluctant to pass women’s bill: Book

NEW DELHI – Parliament is reluctant to pass the women’s reservation bill as it is not a politically satisfying move for various parties, says a new book, stressing that “more lobbying and more awareness” are needed to make it a reality.

The yet-to-be-released book, “Reign She Will: Women’s Strife for Political Space”, has been penned …. Read the original article  : here.

Berlusconi ’spent ???240K on cars for his showgirls’

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi reportedly spent 240,000 pounds on new cars as gifts for starlets in his inner circle.

The 13 vehicles included five Minis, four Mercedes Smart cars, a Land Rover and a Volkswagen Beetle, reports the Telegraph.

Details have emerged from evidence submitted by prosecutors in Milan after an investigation into an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi ’spent ???240K on cars for his showgirls’.

Chechnya leader supports polygamy, wants second wife

Moscow, Feb 25 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Ramzan Kadyrov, head of the southern Russian republic of Chechnya, fully supports the idea of polygamy and says he is looking for a beautiful woman to become his second wife, according to a media report.

“Currently, I am on the look out, but I cannot find a beautiful one. … Read more : Chechnya leader supports polygamy, wants second wife.

Rulers and their reigns in Middle East and North Africa

CAIRO – Here is a list of leaders in Middle East and North Africa who have been in power for years:

Libya: Ruled by Muammar Gaddafi who came to power in 1969 after a bloodless coup against the then ailing King Idris. Population: About 6.5 million.
Bahrain: King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifah has …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rulers and their reigns in Middle East and North Africa.

Why the accidental PM is becoming irreplaceable (Comment)

A curious feature of the scams affecting the government is that they haven’t undermined Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s position as much as may have been expected.

Instead, there have been words of praise for him from political adversaries like Nitish Kumar and Subramanian Swamy and a neutral admirer like Nobel laureate Amartya Sen. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Christchurch quake death toll rises to 123

WELLINGTON – With the death toll in earthquake-hit Christchurch rising to 123, New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has asked all New Zealanders observe a two minute silence for the victims.

“This may be New Zealand’s single most tragic event. I am calling on New …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Christchurch quake death toll rises to 123.

Krishna calls on Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister

KUWAIT – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, who is presently in Kuwait on a three-day visit to represent India during the oil-rich Gulf state’s 50th independence Day celebration, met Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah here on Friday.

Krishna’s visit is seen as very important, since it will give India a first-hand account of the … Read more »»».

Moscow motorists protest abuse of sirens by officials

Moscow, Feb 26 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Motorists in Moscow have launched a protest against what they call the abuse of flashing lights and sirens on top of official cars, saying only emergency vehicles should be allowed to use it.

The Blue Bucket Society, a grassroots group formed last year to direct public anger over the disregard …. Source article  : Moscow motorists protest abuse of sirens by officials.

UN Security council to decide on sanctions against Libya

UNITED NATIONS – The UN Security Council Saturday may adopt sanctions against Libya aimed at stopping the bloodshed in the country, Brazil’s Ambassador Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti said.

Brazil holds the monthly presidency of the 15-member global body for February.
According to RIA Novosti, Viotti said the Council has agreed to meet Saturday to consider …. Source  : UN Security council to decide on sanctions against Libya.

US imposes sanctions on Libya; Obama cites rights abuses

WASHINGTON – The US late Friday imposed unilateral economic and weapons sanctions on Libya’s government for its ongoing crackdown on protesters.

US President Barack Obama cited the Libyan government’s “continued violation of human rights, brutalisation of its people and outrageous threats”.
“By any measure, (leader Moammar Gaddafi’s) government has violated international norms and common decency … Read more »».

I am the best, says Berlusconi

Rome, Feb 26 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has expressed confidence that he is the best possible national leader.

“I believe, no one can rule better than me,” Berlusconi said during a press conference Friday when asked by a journalist about his government’s future.
Berlusconi, 74, assumed the office of prime minister in … Read : I am the best, says Berlusconi.

Statement by the President on Anniversaries Being Observed in Kuwait

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

On behalf of the people of the United States, I congratulate the government and people of Kuwait on the 50th anniversary of their independence … Read more »».

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, 2/25/2011

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press … Read : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, 2/25/2011.

Notice from the President regarding the the annual renewal of the Cuba emergency

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

NOTICE

CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO CUBA AND OF THE EMERGENCY AUTHORITY RELATING TO THE REGULATION OF THE ANCHORAGE AND MOVEMENT OF … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Notice from the President regarding the the annual renewal of the Cuba emergency.

Message from the President regarding the the annual renewal of the Cuba emergency

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

February 24, 2011

Dear Mr. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Message from the President regarding the the annual renewal of the Cuba emergency.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 514

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

On Friday, February 25, 2011, the President signed into law:
 
H.R. 514, the “FISA Sunsets Extension Act of 2011,” which extends certain surveillance authorities included …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 514.

Exiled Chinese leader sees hope in ‘jasmine’ movement

BEIJING – China’s first small “jasmine” gatherings could escalate into widespread democracy protests that the ruling Communist Party would be unlikely to crush with military force, said an exiled former student leader of China’s 1989 democracy movement.

“I think the fear factor is fading out,” Wu’er Kaixi told DPA on telephone.
“You know, the Chinese … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Exiled Chinese leader sees hope in ‘jasmine’ movement.

UN security council to meet on Libya

UNITED NATIONS – The UN Security Council will hold a closed door meeting Friday to decide upon its response to the prevailing situation in Libya.

The Security Council is expected to kick off the closed door meeting at 3 p.m. local time to discuss the issues on peace and security in Libya, Xinhua reported.
UN … Read more »»».

White House Announces Jeremy Bernard as Social Secretary

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The White House today announced Jeremy Bernard has been named Special Assistant to the President and Social Secretary.  He joins the White House staff … Original source on Gaea Times at : White House Announces Jeremy Bernard as Social Secretary.

Congress-DMK seat-sharing talks inconclusive

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK and its ally Congress Friday held their second round of seat-sharing discussions ahead of the ensuing assembly elections but talks remained inconclusive and it was decided to meet again later.

Speaking to IANS, Tamil Nadu Congress chief K.V. Thangkabalu said: “The talks went off well. We have put forward …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Congress-DMK seat-sharing talks inconclusive.

US returns stolen historical documents to Russia

Moscow, Feb 25 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The US Friday returned to Russia 21 historical documents that were recovered by authorities after being smuggled from Russia to America.

The documents, which were stolen from Russian national archives in Moscow and St. Petersburg between 1994 and 2002, include two decrees signed by Catherine the Great and a decree …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US returns stolen historical documents to Russia.

Gaddafi appears in public, greets supporters

TRIPOLI – Embattled Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi Friday made an unexpected appearance in Tripoli’s Green Square, greeting a crowd of his supporters in a show of strength that he still had control over the capital.

“We will die here on the soil of Libya. We will defeat foreign attempts as we did the former Italian … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gaddafi appears in public, greets supporters.

Situation in Libya very grave: S.M. Krishna

KUWAIT – Describing the situation in Libya as very grave, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Friday said India was closely watching the developments in the region hit by unrest and advocated democracy in the fast-changing scenario.

Replying to questions on board his special aircraft to Kuwait, Krishna also reiterated that India does not interfere in … Read : Situation in Libya very grave: S.M. Krishna.

Himachal budget session begins Monday

SHIMLA – The 40-day budget session of the Himachal Pradesh assembly will begin Monday, an official said here.

With the customary address by the governor (Urmila Singh), the budget session would have 24 sittings, Vidhan Sabha Secretary Govardhan Singh told IANS Sunday.
He said Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, who also holds the finance portfolio, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Himachal budget session begins Monday.

Left Front sweeps local polls in Tripura

AGARTALA – The ruling Left Front in Tripura Sunday won handsomely in local self-government elections, bagging a majority in 470 of the 527 village committees.

The Congress and its ally the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT), a tribal group, also fared better this time in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections … Read : Left Front sweeps local polls in Tripura.

Libya unrest: Gulf Air to bring 67 more Indians

NEW DELHI – Besides the over 500 Indians flown to Delhi from Libya, a Gulf Air flight carrying 67 Indian who entered Egypt by land will touch down in Mumbai Monday morning.

The 67, including 11 children and two infants, crossed over from Tabrouk in Libya to Salloum in Egypt Saturday afternoon.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Libya unrest: Gulf Air to bring 67 more Indians.

Britain suspends diplomatic activities in Libya

LONDON – Britain has shutdown its embassy in Libyan capital Tripoli, temporarily discontinuing diplomatic activities in the troubled north African country, the foreign ministry said.

The embassy’s employees were on board the last of several chartered planes, which flew 53 British citizens and 47 other foreigners to London.
Turkey will in the meantime represent … Original article on : Britain suspends diplomatic activities in Libya.

India backs UN sanctions against Libya

UNITED NATIONS – India joined other UN Security Council members to back sanctions against Libya and to refer the bloody crackdown on anti-government protests to the International Criminal Court.

The Council late Saturday voted 15-0 to adopt Resolution 1970 imposing a comprehensive arms embargo and a travel ban and to freeze assets on the regime … Read more »»».

Gaddafi’s Ukrainian nurse to return to own country

Kiev (Ukraine), Feb 27 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Ukrainian nurse Galyna Kolotnytska, who takes care of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, will return to her native land soon, a media report said.

The nurse’s daughter, Tatyana, told the Segodnya newspaper: “My mother contacted me yesterday. She said she is currently in Tripoli. There are shootings, fights and everything …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gaddafi’s Ukrainian nurse to return to own country.

UN Security Council backs sanctions against Libya

NEW YORK – The UN Security Council late Saturday unanimously approved sanctions against Libya, including an arms embargo and the referral of the situation to International Criminal Court.

The council voted 15-0 to adopt Resolution 1970 imposing a comprehensive arms embargo, a travel ban and freeze of assets on the Gaddafi regime.
Council members called …. Source article  : UN Security Council backs sanctions against Libya.

Yemeni tribes not to join protest

SANA’A – Powerful tribal chiefs council in Yemen’s northern provinces have refuted reports saying they have joined opposition protesters demanding the ouster of the country’s president, Ali Abdullah Saleh.

“We maintain loyalty to the government and President Ali Abdullah Saleh,” Xinhua quoted the tribes as saying in a statement.
“We have declared our stance during …. Source  : Yemeni tribes not to join protest.

Croatian police clash with protesters

LONDON – Over 30 people were injured and 58 were taken into custody by Croatian police, after a clash with about 15,000 anti-government protesters who rallied in the capital city of Zagreb, media reports said.

Citing Croatian news agency HINA, Xinhua reported that the protesters, among whom were masked members of the Bad Blue Boys … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Croatian police clash with protesters.

Bahrain king reshuffles cabinet

MANAMA – Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has issued directions for a cabinet reshuffle, as pressure continues to mount on the government from anti-government protesters.

Hamad issued the orders for a reshuffle in four ministries – labour, health, cabinet affairs and housing, Xinhua reported citing Bahrain news agency.
Labour minister Majeed Al Alawi, … Original article on : Bahrain king reshuffles cabinet.

Three killed in Tunisia clashes

TUNIS – Renewed clashes in Tunisia have left at least three people dead and a dozen injured, the interior ministry said.

The demonstrators were killed in violent clashes in Tunis, it said late Saturday.
Until late evening, shots were exchanged between protesters and police in central Tunis, witnesses said.
Helicopters were seen circling over the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Three killed in Tunisia clashes.

France puts diplomatic relations with Libya on ice

PARIS – The French foreign ministry has announced that it has closed its embassy in Libya and ceased all diplomatic activities in the unrest-beset north African country until further notice.

“Because of the deterioration of security conditions in Libya, France’s embassy in Tripoli has temporarily discontinued all of its activities,” spokesman Bernard Valero said in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gaddafi must step down, Obama tells Merkel

WASHINGTON/BERLIN – US President Barack Obama has told German Chancellor Angela Merkel that it was time for Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi to step down.

The remarks came in a telephone call by Obama to discuss the situation in Libya with Merkel, statements by their offices said Saturday.
The White House said in a statement: “The …. Read the original article  : Gaddafi must step down, Obama tells Merkel.

France puts Gaddafi accounts under surveillance

PARIS – France has placed all bank accounts belonging to Libyan leader Muammer Gaddafi and members of his inner circle under surveillance, the finance ministry department responsible for money laundering said Saturday.

All financial institutions have been asked to report any suspicious accounts, the Tracfin department said.
France has repeatedly called for sanctions against Libya’s …. Source article  : France puts Gaddafi accounts under surveillance.

UN Security Council meets on sanctions against Libya (Second Lead, Changing dateline)

NEW YORK – The UN Security Council came together Saturday to discuss a draft resolution that would impose an arms embargo on Libya and a travel ban on designated individuals, in reaction to continued armed attacks on civilian protesters.

Diplomats said the 15-nation council would act on the draft if its closed-door discussion resulted in … Original source on Gaea Times at : UN Security Council meets on sanctions against Libya (Second Lead, Changing dateline).

Buddhadeb in trouble after sound norm violation

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Saturday allegedly violated the ban on using microphones in open spaces due to the ongoing secondary examinations in the state.

Bhattacharjee attended a series of programmes in his constituency Jadavpur in South 24 Parganas district Saturday and at least on one occasion, himself pointed out that the … Read more : Buddhadeb in trouble after sound norm violation.

UAE, Turkey join hands to deliver aid to Libya

Abu Dhabi, Feb 26 (IANS/WAM) The United Arab Emirates and Turkey have joined hands to deliver urgent relief assistance to the people of Libya, which is witnessing violent anti-government protests.

At a joint press conference with his visiting Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu, UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan Friday announced that …. Read the original article  : here.

Away from upheavals, Kuwait celebrates 50th anniversary of independence

KUWAIT CITY – Homes decked in colours of its national flag, children cheering and waving, women clicking moments for memory – Kuwait was in a festive mood Saturday, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its independence, shielded from the ongoing upheavals elsewhere in the Arab World.

Several homes along the main highways of the city have …. Original article  : Away from upheavals, Kuwait celebrates 50th anniversary of independence.

Key Bahraini opposition figure returns home

MANAMA – A key exiled Bahraini opposition leader Saturday returned to the country amid continued anti-government demonstrations.

“They (the government) have made promises to us before, but they did not do anything for Bahrain, that is why we need to see practical things not just talk,” Hassan Mushaima told reporters at the airport upon his …. Read the original article  : here.

Achuthanandan defends son, asks for CBI probe

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the opposition’s allegations that his son scuttled an enquiry into the lottery mafia in the state.

“I have written to the prime minister to go ahead with a probe into the lottery mafia the state and also to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Achuthanandan defends son, asks for CBI probe.

Manmohan Singh lauds Mukherjee, says budget meets economic challenges

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Monday praising Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said the Union Budget meets all the challenges that the economy faces today including sustaining high growth rates.

He said that adequate provisions have been made for infrastructure and social sector as well as agricultural development.

“It is important to curb … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh lauds Mukherjee, says budget meets economic challenges.

Berlusconi back on trial as tax fraud court case resumes

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi will be put on trial again as tax fraud court case resumes in Italy.

It is the first of four upcoming court cases that will train an intense spotlight on his private life and business practices, reports the Guardian.

However, the prime minister is not expected to be …. Original source  : Berlusconi back on trial as tax fraud court case resumes.

US, allies discuss no-fly zone over Libya

WASHINGTON – The US was weighing options of declaring a no-fly zone over Libya in response to its growing unrest, media reports said.

US officials Sunday talked to European and NATO allies about the measure, which would aim to prevent airstrikes against the civilian uprising, The New York Times said.
A UN diplomat …. Original article  : US, allies discuss no-fly zone over Libya.

Didn’t discuss Karmapa issue with US envoy: Dalai Lama’s Office

DHARAMSALA – The controversy over the 17th Karmapa did not figure in a meeting between US Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer and Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, the latter’s office here said Monday.

“Neither side raised the issue of the Karmapa at all during the meeting,” an official statement quoting Tibetan spiritual leader’s private secretary …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Didn’t discuss Karmapa issue with US envoy: Dalai Lama’s Office.

Outgoing French foreign minister rejects blame

PARIS – French Foreign Minister Michele Alliot-Marie has defended her track record, saying that she was the victim of a media campaign as she announced her resignation.

“Although I have the feeling of not having committed an error, I have decided to resign from my role as European affairs and foreign minister,” she wrote in … Read more »».

US puts on hold Bangladesh ties over Yunus harassment

DHAKA – The US officials have told Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina that “there will be no further high-level diplomatic interaction” until the “harassment” of Grameen Bank founder Muhammad Yunus ends, a media report claimed Monday.

This could include Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s impending visit to Dhaka after she completes her India visit in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US puts on hold Bangladesh ties over Yunus harassment.

Berlusconi’s ‘bunga bunga’ party girls ’scared of catching AIDS from him’

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s party women were terrified of contracting AIDS and other sexually-transmitted diseases from him, new evidence has revealed.

The claims, based on text messages sent between the women, cast further doubt on the prime minister’s insistence that the ‘bunga bunga’ parties at his villas in Milan and Sardinia were nothing …. Source article  : Berlusconi’s ‘bunga bunga’ party girls ’scared of catching AIDS from him’.

Canada pre-empts Gaddafi plan to withdraw millions from banks

TORONTO – Canada imposed sanctions on Libya in a swift Sunday night move after reports that embattled Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi and his family were planning to withdraw millions of dollars held in Canadian banks.

SNC-Lavalin, which made headlines in India in 2009 after being named a Kerala power scam, will be one of … Original article on : Canada pre-empts Gaddafi plan to withdraw millions from banks.

Not army’s job to float parties: Omar

JAMMU – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has denounced reports suggesting the army is seeking to float political parties in Jammu and Kashmir with the help of counter-insurgency leaders.

“The issue about former militants floating a political party in the state has been blown out of proportion. It has been projected as if the ministry of …. Original source  : Not army’s job to float parties: Omar.

Not army’s job to float parties: Omar

JAMMU – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has denounced reports suggesting the army is seeking to float political parties in Jammu and Kashmir with the help of counter-insurgency leaders.

“The issue about former militants floating a political party in the state has been blown out of proportion. It has been projected as if the ministry of …. Original source  : Not army’s job to float parties: Omar.

Stone-throwing protests unfortunate: Kashmir governor

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra, in his address to the state legislature at the start of the budget session Monday, termed as unforunate the stone-throwing protests of last summer and also stressed the need for India-Pakistan dialogue.

Vohra regreted the “loss of life”. It was a reference to the four-month long … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stone-throwing protests unfortunate: Kashmir governor.

Malaysian PM disapproves of protests by ethnic Indian group

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has criticised a banned organisation of Indians whose supporters courted arrest to demand withdrawal of a school book they say makes racist references to ethnic Indians.

The demonstration Sunday by the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) was “a deliberate move to create bad publicity for Malaysia …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysian PM disapproves of protests by ethnic Indian group.

Vande Mataram slogans in Kashmir assembly

JAMMU – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators Monday shouted “Vande Mataram” in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly at the start of the budget session.

Sporting the national tricolor on their chests, they raised the slogans in unison, protesting against what they called was the Omar Abdullah government’s anti-national act of stopping party leaders from hoisting …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Vande Mataram slogans in Kashmir assembly.

Gilani vows to continue policy of reconciliation in Pak

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed his resolve to continue his party’s reconciliation policy to make the country’s parliament and democratic institutions stronger.

Gilani also said that the country would not be able to afford mid-term or general elections in the prevailing circumstances, and stressed that the PPP would continue to play …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gilani vows to continue policy of reconciliation in Pak.

Stalemate over Kashmir legislative council secretary

JAMMU – The appointment of a secretary to the Jammu and Kashmir legislative council – the upper house of the state legislature – has been tossed to Raj Bhavan, with two different people being appointed to the post.

Governor N.N. Vohra’s intervention has been sought in the matter as he is the constitutional head of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stalemate over Kashmir legislative council secretary.

Canada sanctions freeze Gaddafi’s millions in its banks

TORONTO – Canada Sunday joined the UN and the US in imposing sanctions on Libya.

The sanctions Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced will freeze millions of dollars reportedly held by Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and his family in Canadian banks.
Asking the Libyan leader to step down immediately, the Canadian prime minister said Gaddafi “has …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Canada sanctions freeze Gaddafi’s millions in its banks.

Nearly 100,000 have fled Libya in past week: UN

GENEVA – Nearly 100,000 people have fled the unrest in Libya over the last week, according to the United Nations’ refugee agency UNHCR.

Most of the refugees have fled into neighbouring Tunisia and Egypt, which have come through popular uprisings of their own in the past months and are coping with uneasy government transitions.
“We … Read : Nearly 100,000 have fled Libya in past week: UN.

US reaching out to Libyan opposition: Clinton

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said the US was reaching out to Libya’s opposition as she renewed calls for Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi to step down.

The US government had been “reaching out to many different Libyans who are attempting to organize in the east and as the revolution moves westward … Read more >>.

Gaddafi’s favorite nurse returns to Ukraine

Kiev (Ukraine), Feb 28 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The favorite nurse of embattled Libyan leader’s Muammar Gaddafi has returned home to Ukraine, media reports said.

Galyna Kolotnytska, 38, was among 185 people who were evacuated by plane sent by Ukraine’s defence ministry to Libya Sunday.
Shortly after her arrival, the nurse went to see her daughter Tatyana, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gaddafi’s favorite nurse returns to Ukraine.

Libyan opposition forms national council

Moscow, Feb 28 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The opposition, struggling to oust embattled Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, has announced it has formed a national council in an effort to free the country of the dictator’s rule.

“The main aim of the national council is to have a political face … for the revolution,” Hafiz Ghoga, a spokesman …. Read the original article  : Libyan opposition forms national council.

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