Denied apex court job, Shah gets online petition for CIC

NEW DELHI – An online petition to have the outgoing Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court Ajit Prakash Shah as India’s Chief Information Commissioner has been launched with many supporting the bid.

Shah retired Saturday after being denied elevation to the apex court.
The online petition started by Milan Choraria, a Right To … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Denied apex court job, Shah gets online petition for CIC.

‘Super Bowl’ of surfing kicking off despite wind worries, lawsuit

Top world surfers in No. Cal for big wave event

HALF MOON BAY, Calif. – A contest drawing some of the world’s top surfers is taking shape Saturday with record-breaking tall waves possible – but strong winds could make those breakers dangerously unpredictable.
The weather is not the only problem on the horizon: surf legend Jeff Clark, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Super Bowl’ of surfing kicking off despite wind worries, lawsuit.

T-shirts with pro-democracy message seized in Hong Kong

HONG KONG – Customs officers in Hong Kong were Saturday accused of censorship for staging a raid to seize T-shirts that poke fun at a pro-China political party.

More than 100 of the T-shirts that mimicked the logo of the pro-China Democratic Alliance were seized from the stall of a pro-democracy group at a Lunar New … Original article on : T-shirts with pro-democracy message seized in Hong Kong.

Nebraska woman, Mississippi couple sue Toyota in Los Angeles over sudden acceleration deaths

Toyota sued in Calif. over acceleration deaths

LOS ANGELES – Two lawsuits complaining of sudden, uncontrollable acceleration in Toyotas that resulted in deaths in Nebraska and Mississippi were filed against the automaker in Los Angeles federal court Friday.
Jacquelyn Donoghue of Holder, Neb., said in the lawsuit that her 2006 Toyota Prius suddenly sped up and went … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nebraska woman, Mississippi couple sue Toyota in Los Angeles over sudden acceleration deaths.

Nebraska woman sues Toyota in Los Angeles over husband’s death in Prius accident

Nebraska woman sues Toyota over husband’s death

LOS ANGELES – A Nebraska widow has sued Toyota in federal court in Los Angeles seeking compensation for the death of her husband on grounds he was killed when their Prius suddenly accelerated and crashed.
Jacquelyn Donoghue of Holdrege, Neb., filed the complaint Friday. The automaker’s North American headquarters is …. Source  : Nebraska woman sues Toyota in Los Angeles over husband’s death in Prius accident.

Nurse testifies she had affair with Ohio doctor accused of poisoning wife with cyanide in 2005

Nurse: Ohio doctor had affair before wife’s death

CLEVELAND – A nurse has testified that she was the mistress of a doctor accused of poisoning his wife and says he asked her if she would stay “if something bad were to happen.”
Michelle Stephens told a jury in Cleveland on Friday that emergency room doctor Yazeed Essa … Original article on : Nurse testifies she had affair with Ohio doctor accused of poisoning wife with cyanide in 2005.

Trial begins in slaying of Iowa high school coach; defense says suspect saw victim as Satan

Trial begins in slaying of Iowa high school coach

ALLISON, Iowa – Attorneys have opened the murder trial of a former football player accused of killing his high school coach by concurring on the facts of the case.
Prosecution and defense attorneys agreed Friday in their opening statements that 24-year-old Mark Becker killed Aplington-Parkersburg High School coach … Read more : Trial begins in slaying of Iowa high school coach; defense says suspect saw victim as Satan.

Report: Immigration detentions dropped, greater share had criminal convictions in late 2009

ICE non-criminal detentions fell for 3 months

WASHINGTON – A decline in detentions of immigrants without criminal records led to an overall drop in the detention population late last year, a data research group reported Friday.
Roughly one in four immigration detainees – or 27 percent – had criminal records between October 2008 and September 2009, the …. Read the original article  : Report: Immigration detentions dropped, greater share had criminal convictions in late 2009.

Lawyers for 9/11 responders acknowledge some errors in claims but say they were few, temporary

Lawyers for 9/11 responders defend firm’s conduct

NEW YORK – The lead lawyer for thousands of Sept. 11 responders has acknowledged that his firm made mistakes in preparing some claims, including assertions that some people have cancer when they didn’t.
But attorney Paul Napoli says the few errors that occurred happened at preliminary stages of the case … Read : Lawyers for 9/11 responders acknowledge some errors in claims but say they were few, temporary.

DirecTV suing Dish for ads saying it’s cheaper while delivering same TV programs

DirecTV suing Dish for ads saying it’s cheaper

Satellite TV provider DirecTV Inc. is suing its rival, Dish Network Corp., for running an advertisement claiming that Dish delivers the same programs for less money.
The TV commercial shows three TV sets broadcasting the same programs, with Dish costing $39.99 a month, DirecTV costing $63.99 and cable TV …. Original source  : DirecTV suing Dish for ads saying it’s cheaper while delivering same TV programs.

Sukhna scam: High Court dismisses Lt Gen Rath’s petition

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court on Monday offered no relief to Lieutenant General P K Rath, who had challenged the initiation of court of inquiry against him in the Sukhna land scam on grants of jurisdiction.

A two-judge division bench headed by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sukhna scam: High Court dismisses Lt Gen Rath’s petition.

Habibullah stays as CIC, tells Omar can’t take RTI post (Lead, Correcting typo in para nine)

NEW DELHI – Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) Wajahat Habibullah, who resigned last year to head the Jammu and Kashmir State Information Commission (JKSIC), says he will continue in his present post and has met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to convey the decision.

In a decision that has disappointed many rights activists in Jammu and Kashmir, Habibullah …. Read the original article  : Habibullah stays as CIC, tells Omar can’t take RTI post (Lead, Correcting typo in para nine).

Land scam: Dinakaran’s wife meets ‘Survey of India’ officials

TIRUVALLUR – Karnataka High Court Chief Justice P D Dinakaran, who is facing allegations of corruption and land encroachment, did not meet the officials of Survey of India on Monday to tell his version of the case. But it was his wife, who spoke on his behalf.

The officials of the Survey of India were to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Land scam: Dinakaran’s wife meets ‘Survey of India’ officials.

Habibullah stays as CIC, tells Omar can’t take RTI post

NEW DELHI – Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) Wajahat Habibullah, who resigned last year to head the Jammu and Kashmir State Information Commission (JKSIC), says he will continue in his present post and has met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to convey the decision.

In a decision that has disappointed many rights activists in Jammu and Kashmir, Habibullah … Read more >>.

Sukna land scam: Court dismisses petition of officer facing court martial

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday dismissed the petition of Lt. Gen. P.K. Rath who is to face court martial along with former military secretary Lt. Gen. Avadesh Prakash in the Sukna land scam, in Darjeeling district of West Bengal.

A division bench of Justices Geeta Mittal and Vipin Sanghi dismissed Rath’s petition saying [..] Read the original article: here.

Locals reject rehabilitation package of South Korean steel major

BHUBANESWAR – In another setback to the beleaguered Posco project, the people who will be displaced when the South Korean steel major sets up a $12 billion steel plant have rejected the rehabilitation and compensation package offered to them.

The anti-Posco agitation, which is headed by Posco Pratirodha Samiti, burnt copies of the package Sunday.
“The … Read more »».

Immigrants in Britain to be taught to queue

LONDON – Britain plans to educate immigrants on the art of queuing properly to help them integrate into the society, a media report said Monday.

Foreigners applying to settle in the country will have to learn about the revered British practice of forming a queue for everything from buses to sandwiches, Daily Mirror reported on … Original article on : Immigrants in Britain to be taught to queue.

Vegetable vendor’s plea moves apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has sought the Maharashtra government’s response to a lawsuit filed by a vegetable vendor accusing a Pune-based private trust of selling her two granddaughters to a Spanish couple under the garb of adoption.

A bench of Justice Aftab Alam sought the reply also from the Central Adoption Resource Agency (CARA) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Vegetable vendor’s plea moves apex court.

Alinghi waits on BMW Oracle to decide America’s Cup future; lawsuit and boat class obstacles

Alinghi waits to decide America’s Cup future

VALENCIA, Spain – Alinghi president Ernesto Bertarelli will wait before deciding whether the Swiss team continues sailing the America’s Cup.
BMW Oracle completed a 2-0 sweep of Alinghi on Sunday to win the contentious series after the international sailing classic had been stuck inside the court room since July 2007.
Bertarelli …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Alinghi waits on BMW Oracle to decide America’s Cup future; lawsuit and boat class obstacles.

Habibullah not to take up Kashmir RTI post

NEW DELHI – Chief Information Commissioner Wajahat Habibullah, who resigned from his post last year to join the newly set up Jammu and Kashmir State Information Commission (JKSIC), has reportedly told state Chief Minister Omar Abdullah that he will not be able to take the post.

“Habibullah has told Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah …. Original article  : Habibullah not to take up Kashmir RTI post.

Libya bans Europeans

Tripoli, Feb 16 (IANS/AKI) Libya has started to turn away Europeans who arrive in the country as retaliation for a recent decision by Switzerland to publish a blacklist of 180 Libyans banned from entering the country.

The North African country led by Muammar Gaddafi has suspended the issuing of entry visas to European citizens apart from …. Read the original article  : Libya bans Europeans.

Russian centre in Nepal stops screening gay film

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s sexual minorities are stung by the refusal of the Russian Cultural Centre in Kathmandu, run by the Russian government, to screen a documentary on gay rights even though the auditorium at the centre had been booked in advance by Nepal’s pioneering gay rights organisation Blue Diamond Society (BDS).

BDS had planned a premiere …. Original source  : Russian centre in Nepal stops screening gay film.

Now, fines for spitting and urinating in Patna

PATNA – In a bid to keep the Bihar capital clean and garbage free, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to impose a Rs.100 fine for spitting, urinating and littering and a Rs.200 fine for throwing garbage in public places.

PMC commissioner K. Senthil Kumar, who issued the directive, told IANS here Tuesday: “It will …. Read the original article  : here.

Ex-florist sentenced for changing rivals’ Google map details

WELLINGTON – A former New Zealand florist, who changed the details of her competitors on Google map so that customers could not get to their shops, has been sentenced to 100 hours of community service.

Kendra Drinkwater, 40, who ran a company called Napier Florist from her home, committed the offences between Nov 1 and Dec … Read : Ex-florist sentenced for changing rivals’ Google map details.

Spain seeks human rights commitment from Cuba

Madrid, Feb 16 (IANS/EFE) Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos has asked the Cuban government for a “commitment” to respect human rights so that Madrid can convince its European Union partners to soften the bloc’s stance toward the communist-ruled island.

Moratinos Monday repeated his wish of revising the bloc’s relationship with the Havana authorities at a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Fat passenger sent off airline for not buying extra ticket!

LOS ANGELES – An overweight passenger who required two air tickets to fly because of his heavy weight was thrown off a Southwest Airlines’ flight Saturday for refusing to buy the extra ticket.

Kevin Smith had the choice to either buy two tickets for himself or be kicked off the flight as he could not fit … Read more : Fat passenger sent off airline for not buying extra ticket!.

MPs cannot be unseated unless charges proved: Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has reiterated that an elected representative cannot be unseated on mere charges that he won the election through electoral malpractice and corruption unless the charges are proved “beyond reasonable doubt like a criminal charge”.

A bench of Justice D.K. Jain and Justice P. Sathasivam emphasised this legal principle while dismissing …. Source  : MPs cannot be unseated unless charges proved: Supreme Court.

Urban development ministry to decide Sainik Farms’ fate

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday asked the Urban Development Ministry to decide the fate of the Sainik Farms colony in south Delhi by the end of the year.

A division bench of Justices Madan B. Lokur and Mukta Gupta directed the government to take a final decision on the status of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Urban development ministry to decide Sainik Farms’ fate.

Sri Lankan ex-army chief’s son-in-law to be arrested

COLOMBO – A Sri Lankan court Monday issued a warrant for the arrest of the son-in-law of Sri Lanka’s former army commander General Sarath Fonseka, who is already in detention on charges of conspiring against the government.

The order was issued by magistrate Lanka Jayaratna after the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) informed the courts that there …. Read the original article  : Sri Lankan ex-army chief’s son-in-law to be arrested.

CIC asks MCD to reveal details of illegal cell towers

NEW DELHI – The Central Information Commission has asked the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to reveal the names of the companies which have illegally erected cell phone towers across the national capital.

The decision came on an application filed by Karam Chand, a resident of Kashmere Gate area in central Delhi, seeking details of all [..] Read the original article: here.

1984 riots: No relief for Sajjan Kumar from high court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Wednesday adjourned by a day the hearing on Congress leader Sajjan Kumar’s plea seeking anticipatory bail in connection with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots till Thursday.

The Congress leader had challenged a trial court order rejecting his anticipatory bail application. He will now have to appear before a … Original source on Gaea Times at : 1984 riots: No relief for Sajjan Kumar from high court.

High court admits Sajjan Kumar’s anticipatory bail plea

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Wednesday admitted Congress leader Sajjan Kumar’s anticipatory bail plea challenging a trial court order rejecting bail in connection with cases related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Justice S.L. Bhayana reserved the order till 2 p.m. after hearing arguments from both sides.
Apprehending arrest, the former union …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Courts can order CBI probe without states’ permission: Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the constitutional validity of courts’ powers to order Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation without the prior permission of state governments with a provision that this should be used carefully and cautiously.

A five-judge Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan in a unanimous judgement … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Courts can order CBI probe without states’ permission: Supreme Court.

Lahore High Court dismisses plea challenging Nawaz Sharif’s electoral eligibility

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) has dismissed a petition challenging the acceptance of the nomination papers of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif.

The high court bench upheld the returning officer’s decision to accept Sharif’s nomination papers for the by-election, saying the petitioner had failed to substantiate his allegations against the former Prime …. Original source  : Lahore High Court dismisses plea challenging Nawaz Sharif’s electoral eligibility.

Malaysia prefers workers from Nepal, not Bangladesh

DHAKA – Malaysia is hiring over 100,000 workers from Nepal, “sidelining” 55,000 Bangladeshi workers whose visas were cancelled in March last year, a newspaper has reported.

Malaysia banned foreign workers in manufacturing and service sectors after a report forecast that 45,000 Malaysians were at risk of losing their jobs.
In March the same year …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Higher courts can order CBI probe without consulting government

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court and high courts are empowered to order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into criminal cases without the concurrence of the union or state governments, the apex court ruled Wednesday.

The significant judgement was given by a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice K.G. Balakrishnan.
The bench, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Higher courts can order CBI probe without consulting government.

Higher judiciary can order CBI probe

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court and state high courts are empowered to order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into criminal cases to protect the fundamental rights of citizens, the apex court ruled Wednesday.
…. Source  : Higher judiciary can order CBI probe.

Aamir Khan resigns from Copyright Act panel

MUMBAI – Miffed by media reports that he is trying to harm writers, Bollywood star Aamir Khan has resigned from the 10-member committee formed by the government to look into the proposed amendments to the Copyright Act.

It seems to me that there is an attempt by certain people to attack me in public by … Read more »».

Malaysian model to have royal audience before being caned

KUALA LUMPUR – The sultan and the regent of Malaysia’s Pahang state will grant an audience to a part-time model who has expressed a wish to meet them before being caned for drinking in public.

Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarno will undergo her caning sentence after her audience with them, the state’s Religious Department director Abdul Manan … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Malaysian model to have royal audience before being caned.

Cuban political prisoner on hunger strike gravely ill

Havana, Feb 17 (IANS/EFE) After 75 days on hunger strike, Cuban political prisoner Orlando Zapata Tamayo has been was transferred to a prison hospital in Havana due to his “grave condition”, said a dissident group.

Elizardo Sanchez, chairman of the unofficial Cuban Human Rights Commission, Tuesday said Zapata’s family confirmed the transfer from the prison in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cuban political prisoner on hunger strike gravely ill.

Gilani plays smart, but Chief Justice emerges winner in averting Pak constitutional crisis

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s smart move to earn kudos for resolving what can be seen as a self-created, almost fatal, constitutional crisis, and his sincerity towards the judiciary will be on real test when NRO cases come up for hearing before the apex court, an editorial in The News says.

According to [..] Read the original article: here.

Malaysian leader hires Indian expert to fight sodomy case

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has engaged three international DNA and forensic experts, including an Indian professor, to assist in the ongoing trial he is facing on a sodomy charge.

The names of C. Damodaran, a professor from Chennai; Brian Leslie McDonald from Sydney and David Lawrence Noel Wells, a professor from … Read : Malaysian leader hires Indian expert to fight sodomy case.

Investor sells Vedanta shares over human rights violations

NEW DELHI – After the Church of England, another British investor has decided to sell its shares worth 2.2 million pounds (Rs.159 million/$3.5 million) in the Indian-owned mining company Vedanta Resources, citing serious concerns about the company’s approach to human rights and environment in Orissa.

International NGO ActionAid said that the Joseph Rowntree Trust withdrew its … Original article on : Investor sells Vedanta shares over human rights violations.

US confirms immigration talks with Cuba

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS/EFE) The US government has confirmed that one of its top diplomats for Latin America will participate in a new round of talks on immigration issues with Cuba in Havana this week.

“The discussions will focus on how best to promote safe, legal, and orderly migration between Cuba and the United States,” the …. Read the original article  : US confirms immigration talks with Cuba.

Obama set to meet Dalai Lama

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama was to hold a long-awaited meeting Thursday with Tibet’s spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, rebutting China’s threats that the encounter would further harm ties between the two powers.

Obama and the Dalai Lama will meet in the White House and are not not expected to appear together before cameras, unlike …. Original source  : Obama set to meet Dalai Lama.

Author JK Rowling accused in lawsuit of stealing ideas for “Harry Potter” books

‘Harry Potter’ author hit with plagiarism lawsuit

SYDNEY – J.K. Rowling has been named in a lawsuit alleging she stole ideas for her wildly popular and lucrative “Harry Potter” books from another British author.
The estate of the late Adrian Jacobs on Wednesday added Rowling as a defendant in a lawsuit it filed in June against Bloomsbury …. Original article  : Author JK Rowling accused in lawsuit of stealing ideas for “Harry Potter” books.

Prosecutors: Texas judge who refused to keep court open for death row appeal must be punished

Prosecutors: death row judge deserves punishment

SAN ANTONIO – Prosecutors who put an embattled Texas judge on trial for refusing to keep her court open to hear a death row inmate’s final appeal say she still deserves punishment.
Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Presiding Judge Sharon Keller faces five charges of judicial misconduct for apparently denying twice-convicted … Read more : Prosecutors: Texas judge who refused to keep court open for death row appeal must be punished.

Infomercial pitchman Trudeau gets 30 days for unleashing e-mails that crashed judge’s computer

Trudeau gets 30 days for crashing judge’s computer

CHICAGO – A federal judge in Chicago who was barraged by e-mails from supporters of best-selling author and infomercial pitchman Kevin Trudeau has sentenced Trudeau to 30 days in jail and fined him $50,000.
Judge Robert Gettleman gave Trudeau 24 hours to appeal the Wednesday sentence. The judge told …. Source article  : Infomercial pitchman Trudeau gets 30 days for unleashing e-mails that crashed judge’s computer.

In bid to defend city, NYC lawyers challenge health claims of some 9/11 responders

NY questions health claims of some 9/11 responders

NEW YORK – Lawyers defending New York City against thousands of lawsuits filed by Sept. 11 emergency responders say many of the claims are baseless.
They asked a judge late Tuesday in a series of court filings to dismiss some of the first cases headed toward trial.
The city’s legal …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : In bid to defend city, NYC lawyers challenge health claims of some 9/11 responders.

Thailand repatriates illegal Bangladeshi migrants

DHAKA – A group of 200 ethnic Rohingyas was repatriated to Bangladesh late Wednesday from Thailand, more than a year after the group tried to illegally migrate to Malaysia before being detained in Thai waters.

The group, which had started off from Bangladesh’s southeastern Cox’s Bazar district in late 2008, only contained 28 confirmed Bangladeshi citizens. …. Source article  : Thailand repatriates illegal Bangladeshi migrants.

Police action: Andhra Congress divided over court order

HYDERABAD – Legislators of the ruling Congress party in Andhra Pradesh stand divided over the state high court order on police action against students of Osmania University protesting for a separate Telangana state.

A day after two legislators from the Andhra region took exception to the court reprimanding the government and police and making certain observations … Read more »».

Caning helped deal with guilt, say Malaysian women

KUALA LUMPUR – Three Malaysian women who were caned for having illicit sex have regretted their actions and plan to turn over a new leaf.

The New Straits Times carried interviews with the three women Friday, a day after the first-ever caning of women triggered protests by human rights and women’s organisations.
The interviews were …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Harry Potter’ author Rowling vows to battle plagiarism charge

LONDON – Multi-millionaire J.K. Rowling, who authored the international best-seller “Harry Potter” books, has vowed to fight a claim that she plagiarised parts of her books and says she is saddened by it.

Rowling has been charged with taking inspiration for her novels from “The Adventures of Willy the Wizard”.
Solicitors acting for the estate of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Harry Potter’ author Rowling vows to battle plagiarism charge.

Obama meets Dalai Lama, speaks for human rights

WASHINGTON – Brushing off Chinese warnings, President Barack Obama met with the Dalai Lama to express his “strong support” for human rights and religious freedom for the people of Tibet while encouraging a direct dialogue with China.

“The president stated his strong support for the preservation of Tibet’s unique religious, cultural and linguistic identity and the [..] Read the original article: here.

Haryana saves more girls, but 9 districts fall behind

CHANDIGARH – The 2001 census showed that Haryana had the worst male-female ratio in India. Since then, it has had partial success in reversing the imbalance, but a negative trend shown by nine out of 21 districts in the last one year threatens to undo the good work.

For a state which had the lowest overall … Original source on Gaea Times at : Haryana saves more girls, but 9 districts fall behind.

Spain asks Cuba for better treatment of political prisoners

Madrid, Feb 19 (IANS/EFE) Spain has asked the Cuban government to provide better humanitarian treatment for ailing dissidents during a meeting in Madrid to discuss the state of human rights on the communist-ruled island.

As in the three previous meetings to discuss human rights, the Spanish government expressed its humanitarian interest in several “specific cases” of … Read more : Spain asks Cuba for better treatment of political prisoners.

Dissidents say repression on the rise in Cuba

Havana, Feb 19 (IANS/EFE) The unofficial Cuban Commission on Human Rights and National Reconciliation has said that four political prisoners were released from prison in January, but it added that “political repression continued increasing, in the form of arbitrary arrests for several hours or several days”.

“In the month of December 2009, we document at least …. Read the original article  : here.

Oldest Canadian veteran of World War I dies at age 109 in Spokane

Oldest Canadian vet of WWI dies at 109
SPOKANE, Wash. – The oldest Canadian veteran of World War I has died at the age of 109.

John Babcock died Thursday in Spokane, where he has lived since 1932, according to a statement from Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
“I was deeply saddened to learn today of the death …. Read the original article  : Oldest Canadian veteran of World War I dies at age 109 in Spokane.

Magna Entertainment files reorganization plan based on creditors dropping lawsuit

Magna Entertainment files reorganization plan

DOVER, Del. – Horse-track owner Magna Entertainment Corp. has filed a reorganization plan in Delaware bankruptcy court after reaching a settlement with unsecured creditors.
According to Thursday’s filing, the unsecured creditors will drop a lawsuit claiming that MEC’s parent company, Ontario-based MI Developments, and its chairman, Frank Stronach, propped up Magna with …. Original source  : Magna Entertainment files reorganization plan based on creditors dropping lawsuit.

Appeals court reverses $6.2M discrimination verdict for lesbian firefighter against city of LA

Calif. court reverses $6.2M firefighter judgment

LOS ANGELES – An appeals court has reversed a $6.2 million verdict against the city of Los Angeles in a discrimination lawsuit filed by a black lesbian firefighter.
The 2nd District Court of Appeal issued a decision Thursday in the case filed by Brenda Lee of Mission Hills. She sued the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Appeals court reverses $6.2M discrimination verdict for lesbian firefighter against city of LA.

Judge sets stage for trials over 9/11 illnesses, picks 12 responders to represent thousands

Judge sets stage for trials over 9/11 illnesses

NEW YORK – A federal judge has set the stage for the first civil trials over illnesses caused by ash and dust from the World Trade Center following the terrorist attack.
More than 9,000 people who played a role in the ground zero recovery operation have filed lawsuits against …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge sets stage for trials over 9/11 illnesses, picks 12 responders to represent thousands.

Pak Supreme Court gives ‘last chance’ to NAB to implement NRO verdicts

ISLAMABAD – The Supreme Court of Pakistan has given “a last chance” to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) chairman to file a progress report on the implementation of National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) verdicts.

On Friday, a three-member bench comprising Chief Justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, Justice Chaudhry Ijaz Ahmed and Justice Ghulam Rabbani expressed displeasure …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak Law Ministry looks determined to block NRO cases against Zardari

ISLAMABAD – Despite being warned by the Supreme Court about the implementation of the NRO verdict, the Pakistani Law Ministry looks determined to block the reopening of Swiss corruption cases against President Asif Zardari and others.

According to The News, NAB chairman is facing the wrath of the Supreme Court for not implementing the two-month-old NRO … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak Law Ministry looks determined to block NRO cases against Zardari.

Review finds no misconduct but cites Bush-era lawyers for poor judgment on interrogation memos

DOJ: No misconduct for Bush interrogation lawyers
WASHINGTON – Justice Department lawyers showed “poor judgment” but did not commit professional misconduct when they authorized CIA interrogators to use waterboarding and other harsh tactics at the height of the U.S. war on terrorism, an internal review released Friday found.
The decision closes the book …. Source article  : Review finds no misconduct but cites Bush-era lawyers for poor judgment on interrogation memos.

Judge rules Joe Jackson can receive some of son Michael Jackson’s medical files

Judge: Joe Jackson can get Jackson’s medical files

LOS ANGELES – A judge says Michael Jackson’s father can receive medical records related to his superstar son’s death.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff ruled Friday that Joe Jackson can receive his son’s medical records from the hospital where he died on June 25.
Jackson’s attorney, Brian Oxman, …. Read the original article  : Judge rules Joe Jackson can receive some of son Michael Jackson’s medical files.

Justice Department review reduces criticism of Bush-era lawyers on interrogation memos

Justice scales back criticism of Bush-era lawyers

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department has concluded Bush administration lawyers showed poor judgment – not professional misconduct – in writing memos authorizing harsh interrogation techniques.
The decision is described in documents sent to lawmakers, capping a two-year examination of the government attorneys who wrote memos that authorized tactics such as …. Original source  : Justice Department review reduces criticism of Bush-era lawyers on interrogation memos.

No arrogance while discharging duty, advises apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has advised those in power to ensure that there should be no trace of arrogance and vanity while discharging their official duty.

A bench of Justice Dalveer Bhandari and Justice A.K. Patnaik gave this counsel to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), while also rebuking it for dismissing one of …. Source  : No arrogance while discharging duty, advises apex court.

Mass. attorney general says federal marriage law should be declared unconstitutional

Mass. says federal marriage law unconstitutional

BOSTON – Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley says a federal law that defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman interferes with her state’s right to regulate the institution.
Coakley’s office filed a lawsuit in July challenging the federal Defense of Marriage Act. In papers filed late Thursday, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mass. attorney general says federal marriage law should be declared unconstitutional.

Blueline buses to continue in south Delhi: Court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday gave another two-month breather to Blueline bus operators plying in south Delhi.

Justice S. Muralidhar asked the government to explain why no-show cause notice was issued for the buses which have valid permits, and directed the government to file reply by April 13.
Meanwhile, the interim order … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Blueline buses to continue in south Delhi: Court.

Former child labourers to spread awareness through theatre

NEW DELHI – When they enact a scene of a child suffering because of forced labour, they will be doing so based on their own experiences. Starting Saturday, a group of former child labourers will launch an awareness campaign on the issue through theatre.

Mukti Caravan, the theatre group, will go around the city performing and … Read more : Former child labourers to spread awareness through theatre.

Court directs Delhi Race Club to deposit entertainment tax

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Race Club to deposit the entertainment tax it collects by selling tickets and by levying additional charges for carrying mobile phones inside the club.

A division bench of Justices B.D. Ahmed and Siddharth Mridul directed the club to deposit Rs.40 lakh with the Delhi … Original article on : Court directs Delhi Race Club to deposit entertainment tax.

Court pulls up government for investors’ plight

NEW DELHI – Coming to the rescue of an elderly couple who were fighting for their investments, Delhi High Court has pulled up the central government for subjecting them to litigation. It also directed the government to pay back their savings, along with the cost of Rs.15,000 each.

Justice S. Muralidhar directed the Commissioner of Payments … Read more >>.

Court frames charges against Congress MP Raj Babbar

NEW DELHI – Pelting stones at a policeman during a protest march proved costly for Bollywood actor and Congress MP Raj Babbar as a city court framed charges against him and others for the incident here.

“I charge you that you along with co-accused on May 9, 2000… in furtherance of your common intention formed an …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Saudi draft law would allow women lawyers to argue cases in court

New Saudi law would allow women lawyers in court

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia’s justice minister says his department is drafting a law that would allow female lawyers to argue legal cases in court for the first time.
Sheik Mohammed al-Issa told reporters Saturday the bill will be issued in the coming days as part of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Saudi draft law would allow women lawyers to argue cases in court.

Former child labourers kick off awareness campaign

NEW DELHI – A group of seven former child labourers Saturday kicked off a week-long sensitisation drive here against the evil of child labour. The campaign is through the medium of street plays and theatre.

A part of the theatre group, Mukti Caravan, the children are all above the age of 18 and have …. Original article  : Former child labourers kick off awareness campaign.

Himachal high court gets ‘green bench’

SHIMLA – The Himachal Pradesh High Court Saturday announced the setting up of an exclusive ‘green bench’ to deal with cases related to environmental issues.

The high court receives plenty of petitions on various issues ranging from mining to forests to environmental loss. The green bench would now speedily dispose of such cases. It would meet … Read more : Himachal high court gets ‘green bench’.

Respect our law, Malaysia tells US and Australia

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia Saturday asked the United States, Australia and other critics to respect its laws and not criticise the ongoing trial of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim charged with sodomising his former aide.

If Australia and the US are civilised nations, then they should not question our actions, Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said.
The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Respect our law, Malaysia tells US and Australia.

Reveal reasons behind ’semi-VVIP’ pyres: CIC tells DDA

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has been urged to reveal the reasons behind constructing three “semi-VVIP” pyres at the Nigambodh Ghat cremation ground here.

The Central Information Commission (CIC) posed the question following an appeal by Right to Information (RTI) activist Subhash Chandra Agrawal, who asked the question to the Municipal Corporation of [..] Read the original article: here.

Telangana lawyers stage protest in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Hundreds of advocates and lawyers demanding prompt action for the formation of a separate Telangana state and introduction of the Telangana state formation bill staged a protest in the national capital Monday.

Holding placards with messages such as ‘Lathi, goli khayenge, Telanagana le jaayenge’ and shouting “Jai Telangana”, men and women dressed in …. Read the original article  : Telangana lawyers stage protest in Delhi.

Glaxo halts production of zinc-containing denture cream after reports of health effects

Glaxo to remove zinc from denture cream
WASHINGTON – The maker of Poligrip denture cream will stop making formulas containing zinc amid lawsuits claiming years of excessive use caused neurological damage and blood problems in consumers, allegedly crippling some.

GlaxoSmithKline will stop making and marketing Super Poligrip Original, Ultra Fresh and Extra Care products in the U.S. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Glaxo halts production of zinc-containing denture cream after reports of health effects.

Tenant can apply for separate water connection: Court

NEW DELHI – In a significant ruling in favour of thousands of tenants in the capital, a city court has ruled that a tenant can apply for a separate water connection even if the owner declines to give a no objection certificate (NOC).

Additional Sessions Judge Pratibha Rani in an order passed last week said: “Since …. Original source  : Tenant can apply for separate water connection: Court.

Teenager leaves granny in morgue after gambling funeral cash

HONG KONG – A Hong Kong teenager was sent to a detention centre Tuesday for leaving his grandmother in a morgue for more than a year after he gambled away the money to bury her.

Jobless Lai Chun, 19, received a government grant of almost $1,400 to cover funeral costs after the grandmother who raised him …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Teenager leaves granny in morgue after gambling funeral cash.

Madhya Pradesh presents ‘grim’ picture of public health

BHOPAL – Even as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lauded the “compassionate” governance of its Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at its Indore meeting last week, a human rights group said Madhya Pradesh was a state where 71.4 percent tribal children were malnourished and 82.5 percent anaemic.

In its recent report to the UN Human …. Source article  : Madhya Pradesh presents ‘grim’ picture of public health.

A. P. Government must provide evidence on Maoists’ Osmania role: Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Andhra Pradesh government to provide evidence of the reported intelligence inputs that say the Maoists have infiltrated the Osmania University campus, which is considered to be the hotbed of the ongoing Telangana agitation.

A two-judge bench comprising Justices G S Singhvi and Ashok Kumar Ganguly observed, … Original article on : A. P. Government must provide evidence on Maoists’ Osmania role: Supreme Court.

Christian group demands jobs, protection for riot victims

BHUBANESWAR – A Christian group Tuesday demanded adequate jobs and protection for riot victims in Orissa’s Kandhamal district where at least 38 people were killed during communal violence in 2008.

“Hundreds of riot victims continue to live under fear as justice eluded them,” Sajan K. George, president of Bangalore-based Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC), told …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Christian group demands jobs, protection for riot victims.

NJ judge refuses to block release of ‘Jersey Shore’ video depicting fight outside nightclub

NJ judge won’t block ‘Jersey Shore’ DVD release

TOMS RIVER, N.J. – A New Jersey man who says he was beaten during an episode of MTV’s reality show “Jersey Shore” has lost his bid to stop the release of a video depicting it.
Stephen Izzo Jr. says a show cast member punched him outside a Seaside Heights …. Read the original article  : NJ judge refuses to block release of ‘Jersey Shore’ video depicting fight outside nightclub.

US Senate jobs bill passes key procedural hurdle

WASHINGTON – A $15-billion jobs creation package passed a key procedural hurdle Monday in the US Senate, signalling an uneasy truce for a chamber that has been mired in partisan bickering for much of the last year.

Senators voted 62-30 to close debate on the legislation, setting the stage for a final vote on the bill …. Original source  : US Senate jobs bill passes key procedural hurdle.

AG Holder says criminal justice system was invaluable weapon in New York terrorism cases

AG: Civilian court valuable weapon in terror case

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Eric Holder says the criminal justice system has proven to be an invaluable weapon in assembling a terrorism case in New York against a former Denver airport shuttle driver.
Holder made the comment at a news conference Monday following the guilty plea in a Brooklyn … Read more »»».

Telangana lawyers besiege Jaipal Reddy

NEW DELHI – After a protest rally, scores of lawyers from Telangana Monday surrounded Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy here and demanded his resignation from the central government to express solidarity with the cause of a new state to be carved out of Andhra Pradesh.

Many of our friends gheraoed the urban development minister at …. Original source  : Telangana lawyers besiege Jaipal Reddy.

Plane spotting Britons could face jail, fine, say cops

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Police Monday told a city court that the two British nationals arrested for alleged plane spotting were being charged for a non-cognizable crime under the Indian Telegraph Act and could also be fined or face a jail term.

The police submitted an non-congnizable offence report in the court, which would hear … Read more : Plane spotting Britons could face jail, fine, say cops.

Toyota gets grand jury subpoena, SEC request for documents on acceleration, Prius brakes

Toyota receives grand jury subpoena for documents

NEW YORK – Toyota said Monday it received a subpoena from a federal grand jury seeking documents related to unintended acceleration in its vehicles and the braking system of its Prius hybrid.
The Japanese automaker also said it received a subpoena from the Los Angeles office of the U.S. Securities …. Source  : Toyota gets grand jury subpoena, SEC request for documents on acceleration, Prius brakes.

Cuban political prisoner dies after 85-day hunger strike

Havana, Feb 24 (IANS/EFE) Cuban political prisoner Orlando Zapata Tamayo died Tuesday in a Havana hospital after an 85-day hunger strike to demand that authorities acknowledge his status as a Amnesty International (AI) designated prisoner of conscience, opposition sources said.

Citing confirmation from family members, the sources told EFE that Zapata died between 3.30 and 4 …. Original article  : Cuban political prisoner dies after 85-day hunger strike.

Chinese engineers bail plea hearing on March 8

RAIPUR – The Chhattisgarh High Court has set March 8 to hear the bail pleas of the three Chinese engineers, arrested for their alleged role in the Korba Bharat Aluminium Company Ltd (BALCO) power plant chimney crash that killed 40 workers.

The high court, based in Bilaspur, about 100 km from here, Tuesday deferred the … Read : Chinese engineers bail plea hearing on March 8.

Giving a voice to Orissa’s exploited tribal women

KANDHAMAL – Reena Rana, a tribal woman in her 20s, is waiting for her five-year-old son to be returned to her. Her husband married another woman a few years ago and Reena had to leave his house. She is voiceless, like many other tribal women in Orissa’s Kandhamal district who are victims of domestic violence.

“I …. Original article  : Giving a voice to Orissa’s exploited tribal women.

Wayward wiener: Kansas man sues Kansas City Royals claiming injury from flying hot dog

Kan. man sues Royals claiming hot dog injury

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Baseball fans who sit six rows behind the third-base dugout at the Kansas City Royals’ stadium know they might have to duck a few foul balls.
But a Kansas man says it was a flying hot dog, not a baseball, that almost put his eye …. Source article  : Wayward wiener: Kansas man sues Kansas City Royals claiming injury from flying hot dog.

Former timber baron Blixseth goes on trial, accused of ‘looting’ $286M from Yellowstone Club

Club founder goes on trial for ‘looting’ MT resort

BILLINGS, Mont. – The founder of the millionaires-only Yellowstone Club goes on trial this week to face claims that he fleeced the private Montana resort out of at least $286 million.
Before its 2008 bankruptcy, the club gained a reputation as a Western haven for the nation’s elite.
In …. Original article  : Former timber baron Blixseth goes on trial, accused of ‘looting’ $286M from Yellowstone Club.

Illegal immigrant population in Georgia doubles, confirms changing migration trends

Illegal immigrants numbers rise in Southeast

ATLANTA – When the Olympic Games came to Atlanta in 1996, a building boom transformed the landscape of downtown and brought with it an influx of Latino immigrants – both legal and illegal.
In the years since, the number of illegal immigrants living in Georgia has skyrocketed. A new federal report … Read more »».

Vt. judge orders arrest of Va. woman who disappeared with child she shared with ex-partner

Arrest ordered in Vt. same-sex parent custody case

RUTLAND, Vt. – A Vermont judge has ordered the arrest of a woman who has refused to turn over her 7-year-old daughter to her former lesbian partner.
Family Court Judge William Cohen found Lisa Miller of Forest, Va., in contempt of court during a hearing Tuesday and issued the … Read : Vt. judge orders arrest of Va. woman who disappeared with child she shared with ex-partner.

Attorneys for ex-Edwards aide ask to see sex tape, say it will help in lawsuit defense

Ex-Edwards aide’s lawyers want to see sex tape

HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. – Attorneys for an estranged aide to John Edwards want to watch a tape purportedly showing the former presidential candidate in a sexual encounter with his pregnant mistress.
Superior Court Judge Abraham Penn Jones didn’t not immediately rule on the request Tuesday. Attorneys for former Edwards aide [..] Read the original article: here.

Trump, Icahn’s group start making their case for owning Trump’s namesake casinos in AC

Trump, Icahn vying for Atlantic City casinos

CAMDEN, N.J. – Lawyers for billionaires Donald Trump and Carl Icahn are in court playing a real-life version of Monopoly over who should control some prized Atlantic City property.
Arguments started Tuesday as two groups try to persuade a federal bankruptcy judge in Camden that their plan and ownership group … Original source on Gaea Times at : Trump, Icahn’s group start making their case for owning Trump’s namesake casinos in AC.

Settlement reached in ‘Rocky Top’ copyright lawsuit by writers’ children against A&E network

Settlement in ‘Rocky Top’ song lawsuit against A&E

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The owners of the rights to “Rocky Top,” the song that’s played throughout football season in Tennessee, have settled a copyright lawsuit against the television network A&E.
The Tennessean reported that U.S. District Court Judge Aleta Trauger approved the settlement Monday and dismissed the lawsuit. The …. Original article  : Settlement reached in ‘Rocky Top’ copyright lawsuit by writers’ children against A&E network.

Trial against former Israeli premier opens in Jerusalem

JERUSALEM – Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert arrived at Jerusalem’s District Court Thursday for the opening of a corruption trial against him.

It is the first trial in Israeli history against a former premier.
“Today, the chapter of bombastic statements and plastic descriptions” has ended, Olmert told reporters at the court.
“Here, the facts will …. Original article  : Trial against former Israeli premier opens in Jerusalem.

CIC orders disciplinary action against MCD employee

NEW DELHI – The Central Information Commission (CIC) has directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to take disciplinary action against one of its employees for not fulfilling his duty as prescribed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

The decision came on an RTI application filed by Hari Ram who …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CIC orders disciplinary action against MCD employee.

Report: E-Verify gives OK to more than half of illegal workers it checks

E-Verify misses half of illegal workers checked

WASHINGTON – A study says an online program some employers use to weed out illegal workers misses more than half the people it’s supposed to identify.
The research company that evaluated the E-Verify system for the Homeland Security Department found 54 percent of the illegal immigrants checked through E-Verify are …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Report: E-Verify gives OK to more than half of illegal workers it checks.

Spain deplores death of Cuban political prisoner

Toledo (Spain), Feb 25 (IANS/EFE) The Spanish government has said that it “deeply deplores” the death of Cuban dissident Orlando Zapata Tamayo and regrets that the human rights situation on the communist-ruled island has led to “this very terrible outcome”.

Zapata, 42, died Tuesday at a Havana hospital after an 85-day hunger strike.
This fact “truly …. Source article  : Spain deplores death of Cuban political prisoner.

Procedures violated in ordering my court martial: Avdhesh Prakash

NEW DELHI – Lt. Gen. (retd) Avdhesh Prakash, the former military secretary at army headquarters who has won a temporary reprieve against a court martial ordered against him, alleges that the Indian Army chief violated a long-standing military practice in recommending the action.

The army chief, Gen. Deepak Kapoor, had violated a rule in place since … Read more >>>.

‘Hirakud dam is failing, farmers are killing themselves’

BHUBANESWAR – Dozens of farmers have committed suicide in Orissa in the past one year as the Hirakud dam is no longer serving its purpose, says a new study that warns of a grimmer situation in the coming days if urgent steps are not taken.

The dam, built across the Mahanadi river, about 350 km from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Hirakud dam is failing, farmers are killing themselves’.

Mistrial declared in trial of American Samoa officials charged with public corruption offenses

American Samoa officials’ trial ends in mistrial

PAGO PAGO, American Samoa – A mistrial has been declared in the Washington, D.C., federal court trial of American Samoa Lt. Gov. Aitofele Sunia and Sen. Tini Lam Yuen.
Sunia and Yuen were charged with public corruption offenses after authorities say they conspired to split a large project for school …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mistrial declared in trial of American Samoa officials charged with public corruption offenses.

Portland, Ore., woman finally gets proof of US citizenship _ on her 104th birthday

Oregon woman gets proof of citizenship _ at 104

PORTLAND, Ore. – Marion Pringle has celebrated a lot of birthdays, but perhaps none were as sweet as her 104th, when she finally received proof she’s a U.S. citizen.
The Portland woman was born in Canada in 1906 and no longer drives but needed to renew her license … Read more : Portland, Ore., woman finally gets proof of US citizenship _ on her 104th birthday.

Lawyers for Yellowstone Club founder say Credit Suisse, not timber baron, to blame in scheme

Blame game continues in Yellowstone Club hearings

MISSOULA, Mont. – A down-on-his-luck billionaire and a global banking giant are sparring in a Montana bankruptcy court.
Each side blames the other for fleecing the exclusive Yellowstone Club of nearly $300 million.
Lawyers for club founder Tim Blixseth argued Wednesday that Credit Suisse has seized control of the club’s bankruptcy … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lawyers for Yellowstone Club founder say Credit Suisse, not timber baron, to blame in scheme.

Judge cuts $300 million Fla. smoker’s damage award against Philip Morris to $39 million

Judge cuts $300M smoker’s lawsuit award to $39M

MIAMI – A $300 million jury verdict against Philip Morris USA in a Florida smoker’s lawsuit has been cut down to about $39 million by a judge.
Broward Circuit Judge Jeffrey Streitfeld found the damage award excessive and not supported by the evidence in the case of Cindy Naugle, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge cuts $300 million Fla. smoker’s damage award against Philip Morris to $39 million.

Lahore High Court directs Pak govt, A Q Khan to resolve protocol issue ‘amicably’

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) has directed the federal government and nuclear scientist Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan to resolve issues concerning Khan’s movement amicably by March 5, failing which the court will decide the matter on its own.

Justice Ijaz … Read more : Lahore High Court directs Pak govt, A Q Khan to resolve protocol issue ‘amicably’.

1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Delhi High Court grants bail to Sajjan Kumar

NEW DELHI – Congress leader Sajjan Kumar was on Friday granted bail by the Delhi High Court in connection with the two cases registered against him in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

The Delhi Police earlier on Thursday suspended Kumar’s personal security officer (PSO) after he informed his seniors that Kumar, accused in 1984 anti-Sikh riot … Read more »»».

Free political prisoners, Spain tells Cuba

Madrid, Feb 26 (IANS/EFE) Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero has demanded that Cuba’s communist government release its “prisoners of conscience” and respect human rights following the death of a Cuban political prisoner on hunger strike.

The death Tuesday of Orlando Zapata Tamayo resulted in the most direct call to date on the Castro regime … Original source on Gaea Times at : Free political prisoners, Spain tells Cuba.

Myanmar Supreme Court turns down Aung San Suu Kyi’s appeal

YANGON – Myanmar’s Supreme Court Friday turned down an appeal by opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi against her sentence of 18 months of house detention, which would keep her confined during a general election planned this year, her defence lawyers said.

A special prison court handed down the sentence Aug 11 to Suu Kyi, 64, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Myanmar Supreme Court turns down Aung San Suu Kyi’s appeal.

British lawyer’s conviction overturned by Italian court

ROME – Italy’s top appeals court Thursday overturned a four-year-and-a-half prison sentence against British lawyer David Mills in a corruption case involving Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

The Court of Cassation ruled that the statutes of limitations had expired in relation to the crime for which Mills had been convicted in 2009 – accepting a bribe to … Original source on Gaea Times at : British lawyer’s conviction overturned by Italian court.

Las Vegas police: Deputies turned away trying to collect $500K debt at Wayne Newton home

Debt collectors turned away at Wayne Newton home

LAS VEGAS – Police say sheriff’s deputies were turned away from Wayne Newton’s sprawling Las Vegas home while trying to collect a $500,000 court judgment.
Las Vegas police said Thursday that guards at Newton’s house refused to accept documents, and moving vans and Clark County sheriff’s civil division deputies … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Las Vegas police: Deputies turned away trying to collect $500K debt at Wayne Newton home.

Jury says it’s reached a stalemate in the case of slain Iowa coach; asks for another day

Jury asks for another day in coach slaying case

ALLISON, Iowa – Jurors in the first-degree murder trial of a man accused of killing an Iowa high school football coach say they’ve reached a stalemate.
The jury gave Iowa District Court Judge Stephen Carroll a note Thursday afternoon saying they couldn’t reach a verdict and requesting one …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jury says it’s reached a stalemate in the case of slain Iowa coach; asks for another day.

With fortune at stake, billionaire Blixseth stands ground against attack from creditors

Blixseth stands ground in attack from creditors

MISSOULA, Mont. – Yellowstone Club founder Tim Blixseth is unrepentantly on the attack as lawyers argue over who knew what – and when – during the financial collapse of the ultra-exclusive alpine getaway.
Nearly $300 million of Blixseth’s personal fortune is at stake in one of the biggest bankruptcy proceedings … Read : With fortune at stake, billionaire Blixseth stands ground against attack from creditors.

Judge in child support trial over Bristol Palin’s son urges resolution before court date

Child support trial set in Palin, Johnston case
PALMER, Alaska – A judge in Alaska has set a date for the child support trial of Bristol Palin and the father of her son but urged the two to work out a resolution before then.
Bristol Palin attended the 20-minute hearing Thursday at Palmer Superior Court … Read : Judge in child support trial over Bristol Palin’s son urges resolution before court date.

Rights panel seeks Orissa’s response to hunger deaths

NEW DELHI – Taking cognisance of a media report on its own, the National Human Rights Commission Thursday asked the Orissa government to furnish a report on the hunger deaths in Balanagir district within four weeks.

“Taking suo motu cognisance of a media report alleging that chronic hunger has led to the death of fifty people … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rights panel seeks Orissa’s response to hunger deaths.

Fighting the Khan-terror link – for real

NEW DELHI – His name is Khan. And he, like the protagonist of a recent blockbuster, is also fighting the system to establish his innocence after he was dismissed from the Indian Army, which alleged that his late father had links with Osama bin Laden. He is afraid the army may challenge his reinstatement.

The Armed …. Read the original article  : Fighting the Khan-terror link – for real.

Thousands of tribals protest government neglect

RAIPUR – Thousands of tribals from the interior areas of Chhattisgarh Saturday held a rally in this state capital to protest their “neglect” by the central and state governments.

Tribal men and women marched through the main streets of the capital to the rally at the sports complex ground, where over a dozen tribal leaders …. Original article  : Thousands of tribals protest government neglect.

Plea to cancel Shiromani Akali Dal’s registration

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court has sought the response of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Election Commission of India on a plea seeking the party’s de-registration as it was allegedly violating the principles of secularism.

The notices, returnable by April 17, were issued by a division bench of acting Chief Justice Madan … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Plea to cancel Shiromani Akali Dal’s registration.

Brown ‘appalled and saddened’ by Burma’s verdict on Suu Kyi

LONDON – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has said that he is “appalled and saddened” that Burma’s Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi to be freed from house arrest.

Reacting over the verdict, which comes ahead of Burma’s elections that have raised deep suspicions …. Read the original article  : Brown ‘appalled and saddened’ by Burma’s verdict on Suu Kyi.

Teachers approach court for revised salaries

NEW DELHI – Twenty one teachers of the Guru Nanak Public School, West Punjabi Bagh here, approached the Delhi High Court saying the school was not implementing the sixth pay commission recommendations.

The teachers filed their petition through advocates Ashok Agarwal and Kusum Sharma and pleaded that why their salaries were not revised according to …. Original article  : Teachers approach court for revised salaries.

Court stays Delhi municipality engineer’s imprisonment

NEW DELHI – An engineer of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), ordered to spend seven days in jail for contempt of court, has got reprieve after the Delhi High Court stayed his sentence.

A division bench of Justice Vikramjit Sen and Justice Manmohan Singh Friday stayed the contempt proceedings against B.B. Bajaj, an executive engineer …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Court stays Delhi municipality engineer’s imprisonment.

McDonald’s back in court after judges reinstate $2 million lawsuit over hot chicken sandwich

Appeals court reinstates lawsuit over hot sandwich

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – It’s been nearly five years since carnival operator Frank Sutton bit into a chicken sandwich at a McDonald’s at a truck stop in the far corner of southwest Virginia. The legal world is still dealing with the ramifications.
Earlier this month, a federal appeals court in Richmond …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : McDonald’s back in court after judges reinstate $2 million lawsuit over hot chicken sandwich.

Singer Prince agrees to pay undisclosed damages to Irish promoters for canceling Dublin gig

Singer Prince settles lawsuit over axed Dublin gig

DUBLIN – Lawyers for U.S. pop singer Prince agreed Friday to pay substantial damages for his unexplained cancellation of a 2008 concert in Ireland’s largest stadium.
Prince, 51, did not appear during the four-day hearing in Dublin High Court.
But evidence presented by Dublin concert promoters MCD Productions Ltd. – …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Trial date set in lawsuit that accuses ex-Rankin supervisor of improperly blocking development

Lawsuit: Ex-Rankin supervisor blocked development

JACKSON, Miss. – A federal lawsuit that claims former Rankin County Supervisor Ken Martin and others reneged on a deal to support the development of a new subdivision has been scheduled for trial in January 2011.
Martin denied the allegations in court records, saying he acted in good faith.
Diamond Fields LLC sued …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Trial date set in lawsuit that accuses ex-Rankin supervisor of improperly blocking development.

High court allows Mayawati government to chop over 200 trees

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has allowed the Uttar Pradesh government to chop down 213 trees to make way for a boundary wall around a 120-acre eco park, named after the ruling Bahujan Samaj Party’s (BSP) founder Kanshi Ram here.

A division bench of acting Chief Justice Amitava Lala and Justice …. Source  : High court allows Mayawati government to chop over 200 trees.