Centre declines permission to Bihar CM to visit Nepal

PATNA – The Union Government has denied permission to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to visit Nepal to attend the post-death rites of former Nepal Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala.

Kumar is reportedly upset over the Union Government’s decision.
According to his office, Kumar was invited by Koirala’s daughter Sujata … Read : Centre declines permission to Bihar CM to visit Nepal.

Likely electoral kingmakers, Iraq’s minority Kurds insist their demands be heard

Iraq’s Kurds want a voice in exchange for support

SULAIMANIYAH, Iraq – After years of what they consider unfulfilled promises, Iraq’s Kurds are hardening their demands to wring out the best deal from prospective allies following an election that has left the country’s future government unclear and the Kurds’ support more prized than ever.
In interviews this [..] Read the original article: here.

Manmohan Singh says government committed to giving education to all children

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, today said the government is committed to giving all children, irrespective of gender and social categorization, access to education.
Addressing the nation on the Right to Education Act that come …. Source article  : Manmohan Singh says government committed to giving education to all children.

China says President Hu to take part in nuclear summit in Washington this month

China’s Hu to attend nuclear summit in Washington
BEIJING – Chinese President Hu Jintao will attend a summit on nuclear security in the United States this month, the Foreign Ministry said Thursday, signaling an easing of strained relations between the countries.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said Hu would stop in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nitish not allowed to visit Nepal

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was denied permission by the central government to visit Nepal to attend the post-death rites of former Nepal prime minister Girija Prasad Koirala, who died last month, official sources said Thursday.

Nitish Kumar was upset due to the decision of the the central government, official sources in the chief [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Khyber-Pakhtoonkhwa?’ Pakistan moves closer to renaming region known for Taliban presence

Pakistan moves closer to renaming volatile region
PESHAWAR, Pakistan – The rugged Pakistani province that was once a stomping ground for the British, and more recently gained a reputation as a Taliban and al-Qaida haven, may soon get a mouthful of a new name.
Feuding lawmakers on a committee reached a deal Wednesday to rename …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Metrolink train crews in Southern California threaten boycott over new personality tests

Train crews threaten boycott over personality test

LOS ANGELES – Engineers and conductors for Southern California’s commuter rail service are threatening to boycott new personality tests required after a crash in 2008 that killed 25 people.
Two railroad unions objected to the agreement between Metrolink and its new contractor, Amtrak, because it would require crews to pass …. Source article  : Metrolink train crews in Southern California threaten boycott over new personality tests.

Metrolink crews in Southern California threaten boycott over personality tests

Crews threaten boycott over personality tests

LOS ANGELES – Engineers and conductors for Southern California’s commuter rail service are threatening to boycott new personality tests required after a crash that killed 25 people.
The Los Angeles Times reports that two railroad unions objected to the agreement between Metrolink and its new contractor, Amtrak, because it would require … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Metrolink crews in Southern California threaten boycott over personality tests.

Fox News drops LL Cool J from Palin’s new show after he declares he never meant to take part

Palin’s show drops LL Cool J after he complains
NEW YORK – LL Cool J says his participation in a Fox News Channel special hosted by Sarah Palin (PAY’-lihn) was bogus.
In response to the actor-singer’s objection, the network said Wednesday it would snip him from “Real American Stories.”
In a Twitter posting late Tuesday, the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Federal judge turns down preservationists, OKs hospitals in historic New Orleans neighborhood

Judge OKs 2 new hospitals in historic New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS – A judge has allowed two hospitals to be built to replace ones damaged by Hurricane Katrina despite objections by preservationists that the projects would wipe out a historic New Orleans neighborhood.
U.S. District Judge Eldon Fallon on Wednesday said he found no reason to stop … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Federal judge turns down preservationists, OKs hospitals in historic New Orleans neighborhood.

Antigua judge nullifies PM’s election, but gov’t quickly appeals to stay constitutional crisis

Antigua judge nullifies PM’s election
ST JOHN’S, Antigua – A judge ruled Wednesday that Antigua’s prime minister and two other lawmakers were improperly elected last year, a decision potentially threatening the governing party’s narrow hold on power in this Caribbean country.

In a packed courtroom, High Court Justice Louise Blenman ruled the March 2009 elections of Prime …. Original source  : Antigua judge nullifies PM’s election, but gov’t quickly appeals to stay constitutional crisis.

Mo. lawmaker gets protection order against her husband, he files to challenge her in election

Mo. lawmaker has election challenger: her husband

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – An eastern Missouri lawmaker is facing an election challenge from her own husband, whom she accuses him of physical violence. He denies the allegations.
Democratic Rep. Linda Fischer obtained a protection order against John Fischer last week. Three days later, he filed as a Republican candidate … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mo. lawmaker gets protection order against her husband, he files to challenge her in election.

Presidential Proclamation – Cesar Chavez Day

A PROCLAMATION

    The rights and benefits working Americans enjoy today were not easily gained; they had to be won.  It took generations of courageous men and women, fighting to secure decent working conditions, organizing to demand fair pay, and sometimes risking their lives.  Some, like Cesar Estrada Chavez, made it the cause of their lives.  …. Original article  : Presidential Proclamation – Cesar Chavez Day.

Major powers agree to begin pursuing new UN sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program

Major powers agree to pursue new Iran sanctions
WASHINGTON – Six major world powers agreed Wednesday to begin putting together proposed new sanctions on Iran over its suspect nuclear program after China dropped its opposition.
China, long a holdout against fresh international penalties against Iran, signaled its willingness to consider a U.N. Security … Read more >>>.

Pentagon denies military test-fires Trident ballistic missile in Saudi drill

Pentagon denies US test-fired Trident missile

WASHINGTON – The Pentagton denied Wednesday that the United States test-fired a submarine-launched ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads during a joint military exercise with Saudi Arabia.
A Western military official in Saudi Arabia, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue, said a Trident missile … Read more : Pentagon denies military test-fires Trident ballistic missile in Saudi drill.

Puerto Rico senator steps down from powerful committee, cites federal investigation

PR senator confirms he is target of federal probe

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – An influential member of Puerto Rico’s Senate has stepped down from a powerful committee post, citing a federal investigation into allegations he traded political favors for services, including a trip to Las Vegas to attend a boxing match.
Sen. Hector Martinez denied any … Read more >>.

Remarks by the First Lady at Spring Garden Planting event

4:05 P.M. EDT
MRS. OBAMA:  Hey, guys.  What’s going on?  Are you awake?

CHILDREN:  Yes!
MRS. OBAMA:  Yes!  What have you been doing?  Just sitting here?
CHILDREN:  Yes.
MRS. OBAMA:  Did they let you have an apple?
CHILDREN:  No.
MRS. OBAMA:  Sam, what are you doing?  (Laughter.)  You can have an apple.  How about that?  Way to start.
Hi, everybody.  Welcome to the …. Read the original article  : here.

Peruvian group led by critic of Jews who wears Nazi-style uniform registers for elections

Alleged neo-Nazis register for Peruvian elections

LIMA, Peru – An organization led by a man who criticizes Jews and sometimes wears a Nazi-style brown-shirt uniform has been allowed to register for elections in Peru.
The group’s new party is named the Autonomous National Christian Equality – forming the Spanish language acronym INCA, a reference to Peru’s pre-Hispanic …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Peruvian group led by critic of Jews who wears Nazi-style uniform registers for elections.

2 mentally disabled immigrants held for years in Calif. detention center will be freed

2 mentally disabled detainees to be freed in Calif

SAN DIEGO – Two mentally disabled immigrants locked up in federal detention centers for years after they were ruled incompetent for hearings will be freed Wednesday until the government decides if they should be deported.
Guillermo Gomez Sanchez, 48, and Jose Antonio Franco, 29, were scheduled to be …. Source article  : 2 mentally disabled immigrants held for years in Calif. detention center will be freed.

Iran’s top nuclear negotiator heads to China to seek opposition to possible sanctions

Iran’s top nuclear negotiator heads to China

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s state media says the country’s top nuclear negotiator is heading to China to discuss possible U.N. sanctions against Tehran over its disputed nuclear program.
Iranian state television reported Wednesday that Saeed Jalili will travel to China Thursday for talks with senior Chinese officials “concerning the nuclear … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iran’s top nuclear negotiator heads to China to seek opposition to possible sanctions.

Bill to slash Pakistan president’s powers tabled in parliament

ISLAMABAD – A bill was introduced in the Pakistan parliament Friday to transfer the president’s sweeping powers to the prime minister and effectively reduce him to a titular head of state.
Today is a historic day. Today we have gathered here to mend the follies of the past, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said … Read more >>.

World begins to accept Nepal may fail statute deadline

KATHMANDU – With less than two months left for the promulgation of a new constitution but Nepal’s squabbling parties still unable to start work on the first draft, the world has begun to accept that the Himalayan republic is unlikely to meet the May 28 deadline.

It was indicated by Britain’s special representative for peace-building, Jack … Original source on Gaea Times at : World begins to accept Nepal may fail statute deadline.

Rural protestors, encamped in Bangkok, changing political landscape in Thailand

Farmers set up protest “village” in Bangkok

BANGKOK – It is often said that Thailand’s political destinies – its coups and constitutions – are decided by the Bangkok elite while the rural masses stand at distant sidelines to cheer, boo or yawn. Until now.
The countryside has come to the city, both figuratively and in a very … Read more >>.

Serbia issues international arrest warrant for Nazi war crimes suspect living in US

Serbia issues arrest warrant for suspected Nazi

BELGRADE, Serbia – Serbia has issued an international warrant for the arrest of a naturalized American citizen accused of serving in a Nazi unit that killed thousands of civilians during World War II, a court said Friday.
Peter Egner, 88, who was born in Yugoslavia, is suspected of war crimes …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Serbia issues international arrest warrant for Nazi war crimes suspect living in US.

Pakistan’s National Assembly takes up reforms to strip president’s powers

Pakistani lawmakers take up presidential reforms
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s National Assembly on Friday took up constitutional reforms to strip the president of the power to fire an elected government and reduce it to a more ceremonial role – a move likely to ease political tensions.
The opposition had criticized current President Asif Ali Zardari for …. Original source  : Pakistan’s National Assembly takes up reforms to strip president’s powers.

Despite nuclear treaty success, Obama facing longer odds on test ban treaty ratification

Obama no closer on nuclear test ban ratification
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is expected to claim a major foreign policy success when he signs a nuclear arms reduction treaty with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev next week – but it comes at a cost.
The hard-negotiated pact took so long to conclude it has … Read more >>.

Campaign in support of Jogi’s son for Rajya Sabha

RAIPUR – Former Chhattisgarh chief minister Ajit Jogi’s loyalists in the Congress have launched a campaign so that the party nominates his son Amit Jogi as candidate for the Rajya Sabha from the state.

A Rajya Sabha seat being held by Congress leader Mohsina Kidwai is set to fall vacant soon in the state and several …. Source  : Campaign in support of Jogi’s son for Rajya Sabha.

Dont do deals with Iran: US tells India, Pakistan

WASHINGTON – The United States is “encouraging” India and Pakistan to not conduct transactions like their gas pipeline with Iran at a time when it’s engaged in sensitive negotiations with Tehran over its nuclear programme.

The US “has encouraged our friends in the government of Pakistan to try to seek alternatives,” Assistant Secretary Of State For … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dont do deals with Iran: US tells India, Pakistan.

Obama talks Chinese leader on runway while Air Force One idles and reporters wonder

Obama talks to Chinese leader while plane idles
ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. – President Barack Obama spoke for an hour with China’s president on the phone from Air Force One Thursday night, welcoming the Chinese leader’s decision to attend a nuclear security summit in Washington and discussing how to deal with … Read : Obama talks Chinese leader on runway while Air Force One idles and reporters wonder.

It’s for India, Pakistan to work out Kashmir, water issues: US

WASHINGTON – Ruling out once again a US role in resolving either Kashmir or water issues between India and Pakistan, a senior official has said it was for the two countries to work things out.

“It’s like water. Kashmir always comes up in everything,” Assistant Secretary Of State For South And Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake …. Read the original article  : It’s for India, Pakistan to work out Kashmir, water issues: US.

India starts counting its 1.2B people, plans pictures and fingerprints for national database

From 1 to 1.2B, India counting and ID’ing citizens

NEW DELHI – India began a yearlong census of its billion-plus population in which it plans to photograph and fingerprint every citizen over the age of 15 to create a national database and then issue its first national identity cards.
About 2.5 million census-takers began traveling across more … Original article on : India starts counting its 1.2B people, plans pictures and fingerprints for national database.

Arizona governor signs bill authorizing her to go around state AG, sue over health overhaul

Ariz. governor signs bill authorizing health suit

PHOENIX – Republican Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer has signed a bill giving her authority to skirt the state’s Democratic attorney general and file a lawsuit challenging federal health care legislation.
Brewer signed the legislation Thursday after requesting last week that lawmakers approve it.
Attorney General Terry Goddard, a Democrat, angered Republicans …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Arizona governor signs bill authorizing her to go around state AG, sue over health overhaul.

Obama calls Rhode Island governor to offer help as state copes with aftermath of flooding

Obama offers help to Rhode Island governor
BOSTON – President Barack Obama on Thursday promised Rhode Island’s governor that the federal government will help the state clean up the damage caused by devastating floods, the governor’s office said.
Obama called Gov. Don Carcieri during the president’s trip to New England, and the two spoke for … Original article on : Obama calls Rhode Island governor to offer help as state copes with aftermath of flooding.

Obama calls Rhode Island governor to discuss flooding in hard-hit state

Obama calls Rhode Island governor about flooding
BOSTON – President Barack Obama has spoken with Rhode Island’s governor about the devastating flooding in his state.
White House spokesman Bill Burton says Obama called Gov. Don Carcieri (kuh-CHEER’-ee) during the president’s trip to New England on Thursday. No other details about the call were immediately available.
Flooding …. Read the original article  : Obama calls Rhode Island governor to discuss flooding in hard-hit state.

Army secretary warns troops they still can be discharged if they admit they’re gay

Army: Gays still can be dismissed if they speak up
WASHINGTON – Reversing course, Army Secretary John McHugh warned soldiers Thursday that they still can be discharged for acknowledging they are gay, saying he misspoke earlier this week when he suggested the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy had been temporarily suspended.
The public … Read : Army secretary warns troops they still can be discharged if they admit they’re gay.

Treasury Sec. Geithner says states will play a ‘crucial role’ in enforcing new consumer rules

Geithner: States ‘crucial’ to enforcing new rules

WASHINGTON – Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner told state attorneys general they would play a “crucial role” under the Obama administration’s proposed overhaul of financial regulations.
Speaking on a conference call Thursday, Geithner told 14 states’ top law enforcement officials that they will take the lead in enforcing new rules designed …. Source article  : Treasury Sec. Geithner says states will play a ‘crucial role’ in enforcing new consumer rules.

US welcomes China’s role in Iran sanctions talks

WASHINGTON – The US has welcomed China’s decision to join discussions at the UN about enacting sanctions on Iran for its refusal to alleviate international concerns about its nuclear activities.
“Its a very important step,” said Bill Burton, a White House spokesman, Thursday.
“The President feels that weve been able to unite the global …. Read the original article  : US welcomes China’s role in Iran sanctions talks.

Fact Sheet: Small Business Health Care Tax Credit

Health reform legislation signed by President Obama includes a Small Business Health Care Tax Credit to help small businesses afford the cost of covering their workers.

Key Facts about the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit
The tax credit, which is effective immediately, can cover up to 35 percent of the premiums a small business pays to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fact Sheet: Small Business Health Care Tax Credit.

Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton aboard Air Force One en route Portland, ME

1:50 P.M. EDT
MR. BURTON:  Hello.  Thank you all for joining us on this trip.  So just a little housekeeping at the top here.  Upon arrival in Maine, the President will be greeted by Governor Baldacci and his wife Karen; Mayor Nicholas Mavodones; and Congress — members of Congress Michaud and Pingree.  At the speech he … Original article on : Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton aboard Air Force One en route Portland, ME.

Remarks by the President on Health Insurance Reform in Portland, Maine

3:17 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Portland!  (Applause.)  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you, Portland. 

AUDIENCE:  Yes we can!  Yes we can!  Yes we can!
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you, everybody.  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.  Thank you.  Thank you, everybody. 
Well, what a wonderful — I guess when the sun comes out around … Read more : Remarks by the President on Health Insurance Reform in Portland, Maine.

Iranian President Ahmadinejad says sanctions help, rather than hurt, Iran’s progress

Ahmadinejad: Sanctions aid, rather than hurt, Iran
TEHRAN, Iran – President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says new international sanctions over Iran’s nuclear program would only strengthen the country by helping make it more self-sufficient.
In a speech Saturday, the Iranian president also said U.S. pressure on Iran had backfired and made Washington more isolated in the eyes …. Source  : Iranian President Ahmadinejad says sanctions help, rather than hurt, Iran’s progress.

Lata Mangeshkar to sing for Shiv Sena on Maharashtra Day

MUMBAI – Melody queen Lata Mangeshkar will sing a specially-composed patriotic song May 1 at a celebration organised by the Shiv Sena to mark the golden jubilee of Maharashtra’s formation.

Making the announcement, Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray told mediapersons here Saturday that the song would be composed and set to music by well-known music director …. Original article  : Lata Mangeshkar to sing for Shiv Sena on Maharashtra Day.

Malaysian PM has shown he cares for people: Samy Vellu

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Indian Congress President S. Samy Vellu has said that Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has shown during his first year of leadership that he cares for the people.

“He has shown that he cares for the people by developing credible policies and procedures that will in turn benefit the people,” The Star …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysian PM has shown he cares for people: Samy Vellu.

Government doesn’t pay for Kalam’s foreign trips

NEW DELHI – The government Saturday clarified that it was not paying for former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s foreign trips, saying his travel expenses were borne by his hosts.

A report in a national daily March 12 had suggested that ever since demitting office in 2007, Kalam has been a “frequent flyer” and the government was …. Read the original article  : Government doesn’t pay for Kalam’s foreign trips.

Agra gears up for biggest Dalit empowerment show

AGRA – Agra is gearing up for the annual three-day Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations starting April 14 that are seen as a demonstration of Dalit empowerment over the past decades.

Each year, a Bheem Nagri – the venue of the celebrations – comes up in a different area, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Arvind Pushkar told IANS. …. Original article  : Agra gears up for biggest Dalit empowerment show.

Indians to benefit from 30 new parliamentary seats in Canada

TORONTO – The fast increasing population of Indian and other immigrant communities has forced the Canadian government to raise the number of MPs from 308 to 338.

The Conservative Party government has introduced a bill in parliament to raise the number of its seats by 30. If the bill is passed, the new seats will come …. Original article  : Indians to benefit from 30 new parliamentary seats in Canada.

Manmohan Singh urges citizens to participate in Census 2011

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Saturday urged all citizens to participate in Census 2011, saying that enumeration would constitute an important input in the processes of planning and development of the country.
Dr. Singh, who was enumerated for the Census here today, requested each citizen to participate in … Read more >>>.

Boycott threats, tensions undermine key Sudan election, hurting chance to ease conflicts

Boycott threat roils key Sudan elections
KHARTOUM, Sudan – Sudan’s first multiparty elections in decades have been thrown into disarray by allegations of government violations and opposition threats of a boycott. The disputes wreck hopes of transforming a conflict-plagued nation and could instead end up fueling violence in Darfur and the south.

The election, set to begin …. Source  : Boycott threats, tensions undermine key Sudan election, hurting chance to ease conflicts.

Now, Shiv Sena has ‘no objection’ to Sania-Shoaib marriage

MUMBAI – A day after attacking tennis star Sania Mirza for her proposed marriage to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, the Shiv Sena did a U-turn on the issue Saturday, terming it her “personal matter”.

Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray told mediapersons here that the party’s views on Sania-Shoaib marriage were made clear in party mouthpiece …. Source  : Now, Shiv Sena has ‘no objection’ to Sania-Shoaib marriage.

Thai protestors launch ‘decisive’ demonstration in Bangkok

BANGKOK – Tens of thousands of Thai protestors Saturday launched a march on the centre of Bangkok in a bid to force the government to dissolve parliament and hold new elections.

Leaders of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) said they would stage both a march on Ratchprasong Road, a popular shopping area … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Thai protestors launch ‘decisive’ demonstration in Bangkok.

Kashmiri migrants to get enhanced relief

JAMMU – Kashmiri migrants living in Jammu and its adjoining areas will get enhanced relief from the government from this month. The amount has been increased to Rs.5,000 from the existing Rs.4,000.
A communication to this effect from the central government was received by the Jammu and Kashmir government last month, Revenue, Relief and … Read : Kashmiri migrants to get enhanced relief.

India trip, a homecoming for Geithner

WASHINGTON – For US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner his trip to India next week is like homecoming in a sense. For it was here that he had his early schooling and learnt to play cricket and baseball.

“It was a great gift to me and a great gift to any American to be exposed to India …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Protesters march for 4th weekend to oust Thai government they believe is illegitimate

Protesters rally to oust Thailand’s government

BANGKOK – Thousands of anti-government protesters launched their fourth weekend demonstration in the Thai capital Saturday, groping for tactics that have yet to force the prime minister to dissolve Parliament and call new elections.
The mainly poor, rural Thais that make up the so-called Red Shirts were concentrating their Saturday protests …. Read the original article  : Protesters march for 4th weekend to oust Thai government they believe is illegitimate.

AP Interview: Talat says election loss would mean ‘disastrous’ collapse of Cyprus peace talks

Talat: Election loss would kill Cyprus peace talks

SIRINEVLER, Cyprus – The leader of the breakaway Turkish Cypriots has warned that talks to reunify ethnically divided Cyprus would collapse if he loses to a hardliner in elections this month.
Mehmet Ali Talat said a failure of the talks would scuttle Turkey’s bid to join the European Union, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : AP Interview: Talat says election loss would mean ‘disastrous’ collapse of Cyprus peace talks.

My blood froze when Zardari became president: Fatima Bhutto

NEW DELHI – Fatima Bhutto, niece of slain former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, says her “blood froze” on the day Asif Ali Zardari became the country’s president and prompted her to send away her younger brother from the country fearing for his safety.
Zardari was accused of plotting the murder of Fatima’s father … Read more »».

Report: North Korean special train arrives in China amid speculation of visit by Kim Jong Il

Report: NKorean special train arrives in China
SEOUL, South Korea – A special train from North Korea arrived in a Chinese border city early Saturday amid speculation of a visit to the country by Kim Jong Il, a news report said, though the reclusive communist leader’s whereabouts remained unclear.
A possible …. Source  : Report: North Korean special train arrives in China amid speculation of visit by Kim Jong Il.

Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Moyer, longest-serving in US, dies at age 70

Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Moyer dies at 70

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Moyer, who was the longest-serving sitting state Supreme Court chief justice in the United States, died Friday at age 70.
Moyer was admitted to a Columbus hospital Thursday morning after experiencing gastrointestinal problems and died Friday afternoon, court spokesman … Read more »».

Democrats stand by Illinois US Senate candidate as race for Obama’s old seat turns stormy

Democrats stand by candidate for Obama’s old seat
CHICAGO – Democrats are quietly worrying about whether Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias can win President Barack Obama’s old Senate seat. His family’s bank is believed to be on the verge of collapse and reportedly made $20 million in loans to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US Sen. Bob Bennett, facing conservative discontent, debates Republican challengers in Utah

Sen. Bob Bennett debates GOP challengers in Utah
OREM, Utah – U.S. Sen. Bob Bennett, facing a wave of conservative opposition as he seeks a fourth term, squared off with seven GOP challengers in a debate Friday as candidates tried to win over delegates who meet next month to choose the party’s nomination.
Most of … Read more >>>.

Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Moyer, longest-serving in US, dies suddenly at age 70

Ohio Supreme Court chief justice dies suddenly

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The longest-serving state Supreme Court chief justice in the United States has died. Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Moyer was 70.
A release from the court says he was admitted to a Columbus hospital Thursday morning and died Friday afternoon. It says he had been experiencing … Read more >>.

Afghan president meets top US commander amid tensions over claims of Western interference

Afghan leader meets US commander amid tensions
KABUL – Afghan President Hamid Karzai met with the commander of U.S. forces in the country Sunday amid tensions over Karzai’s recent scathing attack on the West and accusations of foreign interference in last year’s elections.
Karzai and Gen. Stanley McChrystal flew together to the southern city of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Afghan president meets top US commander amid tensions over claims of Western interference.

Chhattisgarh demotes director general-rank official

RAIPUR – In a first case of its kind, the Chhattisgarh government has demoted a director general (DG)-rank police officer after the central government turned down its request for having three such officers.

The government demoted DG (jails), Sant Kumar Paswan, an Indian Police Service officer of 1978 batch, to additional director general (ADG) rank, a … Read more »».

Pakistani establishment had hand in father’s, uncle’s killing: Fatima Bhutto

NEW DELHI – Fatima Bhutto, the niece of slain former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, firmly believes the country’s establishment had a hand in the killing of her father Murtaza and uncle Shahnawaz.
She also blames Benazir for creating a rift in the Bhutto family by opening negotiations with then military dictator Gen. Zia-ul …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani establishment had hand in father’s, uncle’s killing: Fatima Bhutto.

I would have stayed with RSS, says Gopinath Munde

JALGAON – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gopinath Munde has said it would have been better if he had remained as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activist than joining politics.

Munde, who was a RSS activist, entered Jan Sangh during Emergency days in 70’s.
His reaction came while speaking in a programme organized to pay [..] Read the original article: here.

New life for Nehru’s paper? (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – Speculation is rife in Congress circles that the party is keen to re-launch the National Herald, a newspaper founded 70 years ago by India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Perhaps it has something to do with his great grandson?
The newspaper, which published its last editorial April 1, 2008, had announced …. Original source  : New life for Nehru’s paper? (Capital Buzz).

After Uma, Govindacharya quits his organisation

BHOPAL – Close on the heels of Uma Bharti’s resignation from the president’s post of her party, Bharatiya Jan Shakti (BJS), her mentor and former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ideologue K.N. Govindacharya has quit as national convenor of his own organisation – Rashtriya Swabhiman Andolan (RSA).

He left for Delhi shortly before the organisation’s two-day national … Original article on : After Uma, Govindacharya quits his organisation.

Over 1,000 officials shifted in Bihar

PATNA – The Bihar government has shifted more than 1,000 government officials, including 98 sub-divisional officers, a source said Sunday.

The officials were shifted late Saturday to their new assignment of preparing voters lists. The state assembly elections are due in November this year.
The election commission had ordered the government to shift the officials by …. Read the original article  : here.

From music to bunnies, a look at the White House Easter Egg Roll through the years

White House Easter Egg Roll through the years
A look at the White House Easter Egg rolling through the years:
-CUE THE MUSIC: Eleven years after the Easter Egg Roll became a White House tradition, President Benjamin Harrison added music in 1889. The United States Marine Band, also known as “The President’s Own,” played as … Read more >>>.

NKorea reports Kim attends banquet for Chinese ambassador amid trip speculation

Kim hosts Chinese ambassador amid trip reports
SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea’s Kim Jong Il hosted a weekend dinner in Pyongyang for the new Chinese ambassador, state media reported Sunday, indicating the reclusive communist leader has not embarked on a much-speculated trip to Beijing.
Kim’s potential visit is a focus of intense attention because … Original source on Gaea Times at : NKorea reports Kim attends banquet for Chinese ambassador amid trip speculation.

Justice Stevens to decide on retirement soon; plans to act while Obama president

Justice Stevens to leave while Obama in office
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens says he “will surely” retire while President Barack Obama is still in office, giving the president the opportunity to maintain the high court’s ideological balance.
Stevens said in newspaper interviews on the Web …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Justice Stevens to decide on retirement soon; plans to act while Obama president.

Anti-government protesters occupy commercial heart of Thai capital, shut down malls

Protesters paralyze Bangkok’s commercial center

BANGKOK – Thousands of anti-government protesters, defying a government order, occupied the commercial heart of Thailand’s capital for a second day Sunday, vowing to hang on until new elections are called.
Many of the mainly poor, rural protesters known as the Red Shirts slept the night on trash-strewn pavements in the shadow … Read : Anti-government protesters occupy commercial heart of Thai capital, shut down malls.

Afghan president’s anti-Western comments draw criticism from lawmakers at home

Karzai’s anti-West comments criticized by Afghans

KABUL – President Hamid Karzai’s scathing attack on the West for its role in Afghanistan drew criticism from Afghan politicians after the White House described his remarks as genuinely troubling.
Despite Karzai’s attempt at damage control, including a telephone conversation Saturday with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, his allegations laid …. Source  : Afghan president’s anti-Western comments draw criticism from lawmakers at home.

Justice Stevens says he’ll retire while Obama still president; will decide on timing soon

Justice Stevens says he’ll retire in Obama’s term
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens says he “will surely” retire while President Barack Obama is still in office, giving the president the opportunity to maintain the high court’s ideological balance.
Stevens said in newspaper interviews on the Web Saturday that he … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Justice Stevens says he’ll retire while Obama still president; will decide on timing soon.

Afghan president’s anti-Western comments draw criticism at home

Afghan leader’s anti-West comments draw fire

KABUL – President Hamid Karzai’s scathing attack on the West for its role in Afghanistan drew criticism Saturday from Afghan politicians after the White House described his remarks as genuinely troubling.
Despite Karzai’s attempt at damage control, including a telephone conversation with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, his allegations laid … Original article on : Afghan president’s anti-Western comments draw criticism at home.

Justice Stevens says he’ll decide soon on retiring, still writes first drafts of his opinions

Justice Stevens says he’ll decide soon on retiring
WASHINGTON – Justice John Paul Stevens says he’ll decide soon about retiring – for his own peace of mind and to give President Barack Obama and the Senate plenty of time to replace him.
Stevens turns 90 this month and is the oldest justice. He tells The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Justice Stevens says he’ll decide soon on retiring, still writes first drafts of his opinions.

‘Save’ Bengal from CPI-M, Congress-Trinamool urge Chidambaram

KOLKATA – Aggrieved over union Home Minister P. Chidambaram dropping politically volatile Burdwan district from his West Bengal tour itinerary, the state’s opposition Congress and Trinamool Congress leaders Saturday night urged him to visit the district and ’save’ the people from the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M)’s atrocities.
“We apprised him of the … Read more : ‘Save’ Bengal from CPI-M, Congress-Trinamool urge Chidambaram.

Russia to help Venezuela develop nuclear project

Caracas, April 3 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russia and Venezuela signed a landmark agreement to prepare a draft for construction of the first nuclear power plant in the Latin American country, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said Saturday.
“We are ready to start drafting the first nuclear plant project,” Chavez told a joint press conference after talks …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Russia to help Venezuela develop nuclear project.

Rory Reid: name, famous father, won’t sway voters in Nevada governor’s race

Rory Reid takes on name in NV governor’s race

CARSON CITY, Nev. – As chairman of the powerful Clark County Commission in Las Vegas, 47-year-old Rory Reid is not exactly a newcomer to the public spotlight.
Even so, his name is often linked to that of his father, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.
The younger Reid is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rory Reid: name, famous father, won’t sway voters in Nevada governor’s race.

Iraq’s election tangle: Sunnis fear Shiite maneuvers will kill their chance of sharing power

Iraq election tangle stokes fears of new violence

BAGHDAD – For the first time since the 2003 overthrow of their patron, Saddam Hussein, Iraq’s Sunni Arabs are on the winning side. But the triumph may be short-lived.
In the parliamentary election a month ago, Sunni voters took a leap of faith and threw their support behind Iraqiya, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan silent on talks, dossiers, notes India

NEW DELHI – More than a month after their foreign-secretary level talks, India indicated its willingness to keep Pakistan engaged at this level, but has yet to hear from Islamabad either on the talks or the three dossiers it has given linking Pakistani militants with terror attacks in India.
“Pakistan has yet to … Read more »»».

When burnt breakfast at Tony Blair’s home alarmed fire crews

LONDON – Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair saw three fire engines coming to his 6-million-pound stately home in Buckinghamshire after he triggered smoke alarms while cooking breakfast.

An automatic alarm system summoned the firefighters to the 17th-century South Pavilion in Wotton Underwood.
Smoke had started to drift from the kitchen into other rooms in the seven-bedroomed … Read more : When burnt breakfast at Tony Blair’s home alarmed fire crews.

SP, RJD to oppose Women’s Bill in all party meeting

NEW DELHI – The Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Monday reiterated their determination to oppose the Women’s Reservation Bill in its current form, even as Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee is scheduled to preside over an all party meeting on the issue.
Both parties said they would continue to press …. Read the original article  : SP, RJD to oppose Women’s Bill in all party meeting.

Pakistan’s Parliamentarians welcome Constitution reform’s Bill

ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN (GaeaTimes.com) – Pakistan’s Parliamentarians welcomed ‘Constitution reforms bill’ when Chairman Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms Senator Mian Raza Rabbani tabled it to the Parliament on Friday.

Amidst appreciations and desk thumping, Chairman Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms Senator Mian Raza Rabbani Friday presented the landmark document in Pakistan’s history to the Parliament, describing it …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan’s Parliamentarians welcome Constitution reform’s Bill.

M.K. Narayanan given additional charge of Sikkim

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Monday assigned West Bengal Governor M.K. Narayanan the functions of the governor of Sikkim in addition to his own duties.

Narayanan was given additional charge of Sikkim owing to the absence on leave of Sikkim Governor Balmiki Prasad Singh.
… Read more : M.K. Narayanan given additional charge of Sikkim.

Government consults parties on women’s quota bill

NEW DELHI – The government Monday consulted leaders of parties in the Lok Sabha on the controversial women’s reservation bill but some of them remained bitterly opposed to the proposed legislation.
In his capacity as the leader of the Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee convened the meeting attended by a string of political … Original article on : Government consults parties on women’s quota bill.

BJP to launch e-campaign against price rise

BHOPAL – As the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Madhya Pradesh prepares to take workers from the state to participate in the party’s April 21 agitation against price rise in Delhi, its IT cell has decided to launch an e-campaign against the hike in prices, party sources said Monday.

“The state BJP … Read more : BJP to launch e-campaign against price rise.

Nepal PM says MRP printing being done in India for political reasons

KATHMANDU – Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal on Monday said the government has awarded the contract to print Machine Readable Passports (MRPs) to India for political and diplomatic reasons.

The Kantipur quoted Nepal as saying that vital information would not be leaked …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal PM says MRP printing being done in India for political reasons.

At a glance: 5 things to know about the tea party movement in the states

5 things to know about the tea party movement
For the past year, a passionate group of Americans have rallied together under the banner of the “tea party,” altering the direction of the nation’s political discourse in the early years of Barack Obama’s presidency.
The Associated Press reviewed tea party operations in almost every state, … Read : At a glance: 5 things to know about the tea party movement in the states.

We won’t neglect Indian community, says Malaysian leader

KOTA KINABALU – Indians who had made significant contribution to Malaysia’s Sabah state would not be neglected, Chief Minister Musa Aman has assured the community.

“We have always acknowledged the contributions of the community as they are entrepreneurs and successful businessmen as well as professionals,” Aman said Sunday while attending the 12th state level convention …. Original source  : We won’t neglect Indian community, says Malaysian leader.

Government meets parties on women’s quota bill

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Home Minister P. Chidambaram will Monday meet leaders of parties in the Lok Sabha for consultations on the women’s reservation bill, which the government intends to table in the lower house in the second half of the budget session.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister P.K. Bansal will also …. Source article  : Government meets parties on women’s quota bill.

Who will be the leader? War erupts in DMK

CHENNAI – It is a family affair all right. But just how it ends will determine the future of the DMK, one of India’s oldest political parties, and the political kaleidoscope of Tamil Nadu.
As DMK chief and Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi prepares to call it a day, an unlikely war has broken out … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Who will be the leader? War erupts in DMK.

‘Anything below azadi’ negotiable for Kashmir: Home Secretary (IANS Interview)

NEW DELHI – The Indian government is holding back-channel talks with separatist Hurriyat leaders on the Kashmir issue and is open to negotiating anything less than independence, says Home Secretary G.K. Pillai.
“Talks are going on and the talks will continue. These are back channel talks,” Pillai told IANS in an exclusive interview at …. Source  : ‘Anything below azadi’ negotiable for Kashmir: Home Secretary (IANS Interview).

Thai protesters plan to expand in Bangkok, defy order to leave commercial district

Defiant protesters to fan out in unnerved Bangkok

BANGKOK – Thousands of defiant anti-government demonstrators vowed Monday to expand their protests to other parts of Thailand’s unnerved capital after ignoring police orders to end their occupation of Bangkok’s paralyzed commercial district.
The protesters, mostly farmers from impoverished provincial areas, have sworn not to let up their pressure … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Thai protesters plan to expand in Bangkok, defy order to leave commercial district.

Bolivia: Exit polls give president’s allies slight advantage in state elections

Small gains for Bolivia’s Morales in state votes

LA PAZ, Bolivia – Allies of leftist President Evo Morales made modest advances in state and local elections on Sunday, according to independent exit polls.
Morales and his Movement Toward Socialism campaigned hard in opposition controlled eastern provinces where resistance is strongest to the central government’s redistribution of land … Read more »».

Raul Castro vows Cuba won’t give in to ‘blackmail’ regarding its human rights record

Castro: Cuba will resist hunger strike ‘blackmail’

HAVANA – Raul Castro called mounting international pressure over Cuba’s human rights record one of the strongest assaults its communist government has ever faced and vowed not to yield to the “blackmail” of a high-profile hunger striker.
In a 45-minute nationally televised speech, Cuba’s president said his government has the …. Original article  : Raul Castro vows Cuba won’t give in to ‘blackmail’ regarding its human rights record.

Leading Republican lawmakers call for accountability in way GOP spends its funds

Top GOP lawmakers want accountability at RNC

WASHINGTON – Two top congressional Republicans said Sunday the Republican National Committee must be held accountable for the way it uses the money it raises in light of nearly $2,000 spent for a night at a sex-themed Hollywood nightclub.
“This kind of thing has got to stop or they won’t … Original source on Gaea Times at : Leading Republican lawmakers call for accountability in way GOP spends its funds.

Defense minister prepares Germans for Afghan ‘war,’ vows probe into deadly friendly fire clash

Defense Minister prepares Germans for Afghan ‘war’

BERLIN – Germany’s defense minister on Sunday for the first time referred to military operations in Afghanistan as a war, while he promised to investigate a friendly fire clash that left six Afghan soldiers dead.
Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg broke a government taboo on the politically charged word, preparing Germans … Original article on : Defense minister prepares Germans for Afghan ‘war,’ vows probe into deadly friendly fire clash.

Official: 13 prisoners escaped during gang raid on prison in Mexican border city

Official: Gang raid freed 13 Mexican prisoners

NUEVO LAREDO, Mexico – Thirteen inmates escaped when armed men stormed a prison in the northern Mexican border city of Reynosa, an official with the federal Attorney General’s Office said Sunday.
It was the second mass jailbreak in less than two weeks in Tamaulipas state, which has been wracked by …. Source  : Official: 13 prisoners escaped during gang raid on prison in Mexican border city.

Food security bill should provide maximum benefit: Congress

NEW DELHI – A day ahead of the empowered group of ministers meeting to re-look the national food security bill, the Congress Sunday said that the proposed legislation should provide maximum benefits to the needy sections of society.
“The needy sections of society should get maximum benefits,” Congress spokesman Shakeel Ahmed told IANS.
He …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Food security bill should provide maximum benefit: Congress.

Senegal president announces retaking of 3 French bases to mark 50th year of independence

Senegal’s president reclaims French military bases

DAKAR, Senegal – Senegal’s president said Sunday the West African country was reclaiming three French military bases to mark its 50th year of independence from France. In Paris, however, officials said the bases’ future was still under discussion.
President Abdoulaye Wade announced that the government would retake the bases which house … Read : Senegal president announces retaking of 3 French bases to mark 50th year of independence.

Sonia Gandhi to be consulted by troubled Goa Congress

PANAJI – The ruling Congress and its ally Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Goa will consult Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on finding a solution to the threat facing their government after a group of seven ruling MLAs including five ministers openly voiced dissent, a minister said Tuesday.
A cabinet meeting which was called … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sonia Gandhi to be consulted by troubled Goa Congress.

Israeli foreign minister warns Palestinians their statehood declaration could endanger peace

Israeli FM warns Palestinians not to declare state

JERUSALEM – Israel’s hard-line foreign minister warned Palestinians on Tuesday against plans to unilaterally declare independence next year, saying such a move could prompt Israel to annex parts of the West Bank and annul past peace agreements.
The remarks by Avigdor Lieberman took aim at a Palestinian policy that … Original article on : Israeli foreign minister warns Palestinians their statehood declaration could endanger peace.

Police official says Maoist rebels kill at least 60 paramilitary soldiers in eastern India

Maoist rebels kill 60 troops in eastern India

PATNA, India – A senior police official says Maoist rebels have killed at least 60 paramilitary soldiers in attacks in the eastern Indian state of Chhattisgarh. The assaults mark the most casualties against government forces since they launched an offensive against the rebels last year.
R.K. Vij, the Inspector …. Read the original article  : Police official says Maoist rebels kill at least 60 paramilitary soldiers in eastern India.

US Treasury Secretary Geithner meets Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, who is in New Delhi to launch a new bilateral economic dialogue with India with a focus on macroeconomic stability, financial markets and infrastructure financing, met the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, today
Geithner, who arrived …. Original source  : US Treasury Secretary Geithner meets Manmohan Singh.

Indian party wants to contest Malaysian by-election

KUALA LUMPUR – A party representing ethnic Indians wants to contest an upcoming parliamentary by-election in Malaysia but the dominant Malay force in the ruling alliance is also eyeing the seat.

The election in Hulu Selangor has evoked a lot of interest among ethnic Indians as G. Palanivel, vice president of the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), … Original article on : Indian party wants to contest Malaysian by-election.

Government official says Maoist rebels kill at least 40 paramilitary soldiers in eastern India

Maoist rebels kill 40 troops in eastern India
PATNA, India – A senior government official says Maoist rebels have killed at least 40 paramilitary soldiers in attacks in the eastern Indian state of Chhattisgarh. The assaults mark the most casualties against government troops since they launched an offensive against the rebels last year.
Raman Singh, [..] Read the original article: here.

Kashmir employees on strike despite government opposition

SRINAGAR – Adamant government employees in Jammu and Kashmir refused to call off their strike Tuesday to demand payment of arrears of the 6th Pay Commission, a day after the government invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against them.

Work in all government schools and offices in towns and in block, district and divisional level …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kashmir employees on strike despite government opposition.

Show political will on women’s bill, CPI-M tells government

NEW DELHI – The government should show political will in passing the women’s quota bill in the Lok Sabha, the Communist Party of India-Marxist said Tuesday, a day after an all-party meeting on the issue failed to reach a consensus.

“The government should show political will,” CPI-M MP Brinda Karat said on the government’s decision to … Read more : Show political will on women’s bill, CPI-M tells government.

Report: North Korean leader could delay trip to China until after Washington nuclear summit

Report: NKorean leader could delay trip to China
SEOUL, South Korea – North Korean leader Kim Jong Il could delay an expected trip to China until later this month after Chinese President Hu Jintao has attended a nuclear security summit in Washington, a news report said Tuesday.
Kim’s potential visit is a focus of intense … Original source on Gaea Times at : Report: North Korean leader could delay trip to China until after Washington nuclear summit.

Indian Americans rally to block F-16s sale to Pakistan

NEW DELHI – A group of prominent Indian Americans, led by noted physician Sudhir Parikh, are lobbying hard to block Washington’s sale of F-16 combat aircraft to Pakistan, drawing support from a large Congressional caucus.
“Our contention is the sals of F-16s to Pakistan will escalate the arms race in South Asia. This goes …. Read the original article  : Indian Americans rally to block F-16s sale to Pakistan.

BJP hints at snapping ties with AGP in Assam

GUWAHATI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday almost put an end to the year-long honeymoon with Assam’s main opposition Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) by hinting to fight the 2011 assembly elections on its own and take power in the state.

“If they (AGP) want an alliance we can talk, or else we are ready … Read more : BJP hints at snapping ties with AGP in Assam.

Israeli military investigations criticize troops over 4 Palestinians deaths

Israeli army censures troops in Palestinian deaths

JERUSALEM – Two Israeli military investigations are criticizing troops over the killing of four Palestinians in the West Bank last month.
The first investigation looked into a March 20 incident in which two Palestinians were shot and killed.
Troops claimed they fired rubber bullets to disperse a riot, but the investigation [..] Read the original article: here.

Former eBay CEO Meg Whitman makes another $20 million contribution in Calif. GOP gov. race

Whitman chips in $20M more in Calif. gov. race

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Former eBay chief executive Meg Whitman on Monday gave her campaign for the GOP gubernatorial nomination another $20 million, bringing her contributions from her personal fortune to $59 million in what is expected to be the most expensive governor’s race in California history.
Whitman has … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Former eBay CEO Meg Whitman makes another $20 million contribution in Calif. GOP gov. race.

Obama to focus on securing nuclear material

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama hopes to use next week’s nuclear security summit to clearly spell out how to secure world’s nuclear material so it does not fall into the hands of terrorists or dangerous states.
“Our expectation is not that there’s just some vague, gauzy statement about us not wanting to see loose … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama to focus on securing nuclear material.

Obama’s ‘directive’ should be no surprise to India (News Analysis)

CHICAGO – It is hardly surprising that the Obama administration is reportedly stepping up pressure on India to resolve bilateral issues with Pakistan in order to better handle Afghanistan.
The Wall Street Journal reported that President Barack Obama issued a “secret directive in December to intensify American diplomacy aimed at easing tensions between India … Original article on : Obama’s ‘directive’ should be no surprise to India (News Analysis).

AP sources: Top RNC official quits amid criticism over spending at sex-themed club

AP sources: RNC official steps down amid criticism

WASHINGTON – Amid unrelenting criticism of how the Republican National Committee has spent donors’ dollars, Chairman Michael Steele on Monday accepted the resignation of his chief of staff and allowed one of his senior advisers to leave as he tried to reassure GOP donors upset about his leadership. … Read more >>.

Magician Lance Burton, Monte Carlo to split after 14 years despite recent contract extension

Lance Burton, Monte Carlo splitting after 14 years

LAS VEGAS – Citing “irreconcilable differences,” illusionist Lance Burton said Monday he is ending his run at the Monte Carlo hotel-casino on the Las Vegas Strip after 14 years, well short of a six-year contract extension he signed last year.
His last show will be Sept. 4, hotel officials …. Read the original article  : Magician Lance Burton, Monte Carlo to split after 14 years despite recent contract extension.

Census Bureau will count same-sex couples who say they are married _ even those who aren’t

Census Bureau urges same-sex couples to be counted

NEW YORK – With strong backing from the Census Bureau, gay-rights activists are urging maximum participation by their community in the first U.S. census that will tally same-sex couples who say they’re married – even those without a marriage license.
The move has drawn fire from conservatives, who complain …. Read the original article  : Census Bureau will count same-sex couples who say they are married _ even those who aren’t.

Karl Rove appears in new ad urging residents to fill out 2010 census forms

Karl Rove ad urges residents to fill out census
WASHINGTON – Karl Rove, the former political adviser to President George W. Bush, is appearing in a public service announcement asking people to fill out and mail back their 2010 census forms.
Rove invokes James Madison, the nation’s fourth president and principal author of the U.S. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Trial to begin for B-2 bomber engineer from Maui accused of selling military secrets to China

Hawaii man’s China military secrets trial to begin

HONOLULU – A former B-2 stealth bomber engineer from Maui who is accused of selling military secrets to China is due to face trial in federal court this week.
Noshir Gowadia (NOH’-sheer GO’-wah-dee-a) faces 21 counts including conspiracy, violating the arms export control act and money laundering.
The trial comes … Original article on : Trial to begin for B-2 bomber engineer from Maui accused of selling military secrets to China.

Karunakaran not unwell, just deeply saddened: Son

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Senior Congress leader K. Karunakaran, who is in hospital, does not have any medical problem — the nonagenarian is just deeply saddened over being slighted by the party, said his only son K. Muraleedharan.

Addressing reporters here Wednesday, Muraleedharan said his father is in hospital because he is sad as despite his seniority in …. Original article  : Karunakaran not unwell, just deeply saddened: Son.

Forget past friction, Chinese daily on India ties

BEIJING – China and India need to “play a bigger role in the world” and should “leave behind their past friction and look to the future”, a leading Chinese daily said Wednesday.

An editorial in the China Daily said: “The two countries will be better positioned on global affairs if they could stand united.”
“The …. Original article  : Forget past friction, Chinese daily on India ties.

Violence erupts across Kyrgyzstan as protesters challenge police crackdown, storm buildings

Violence erupts at Kyrgyzstan opposition rallies

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – Violence erupted in this strategic Central Asian nation Wednesday as thousands of protesters angry over the arrests of opposition leaders tried to seize the main government building in the capital after chasing and beating up dozens of police officers.
Police in Bishkek used rubber bullets, tear gas, water … Original source on Gaea Times at : Violence erupts across Kyrgyzstan as protesters challenge police crackdown, storm buildings.

Wooden elephants and bachata beats: census ads try cultural deep dive to boost participation

Census ads seek to boost minority participation

LOS ANGELES – Radio commercials blare ranchera tunes, beseeching Mexican-Americans to fill out their census forms. Print ads with a portrait of a Thai family with a carved elephant in the background implore Thais to do the same. So does a Congolese basketball hero in another.
The ads scream stand …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Spat between Ala. dental nonprofit, mainstream dentists may foreshadow future under Obama plan

Ala. dental spat may foreshadow Obama plan effects
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A dispute that’s broken out among Alabama dentists could be a sign of what’s to come under President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul.
Members of the Alabama Dental Association are complaining about Sarrell Dental Center, a nonprofit corporation that treats young people on Medicaid. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Spat between Ala. dental nonprofit, mainstream dentists may foreshadow future under Obama plan.

India, China sign agreement to create a hotline for PMs

BEIJING – India and China today signed an agreement to establish a hotline between the Prime Ministers of the two countries.

The agreement was signed by External Affairs Minister S M Krishna and his Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi after their first round of talks here.
This is the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India, China sign agreement to create a hotline for PMs.

Helicopter evacuates lawmakers trapped by protesters besieging Thailand’s Parliament

Helicopter evacuates trapped Thai lawmakers

BANGKOK – Thailand’s government security agency says a Black Hawk helicopter landed at Parliament and evacuated lawmakers trapped by anti-government protesters surrounding the building.
A statement from the agency, known as CAPO, said Wednesday that the helicopter carrying “five soldiers armed with M16s landed on the Parliament’s helipad and picked up ministers …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Helicopter evacuates lawmakers trapped by protesters besieging Thailand’s Parliament.

Rights group calls on Yemen and rebels to investigate war crime allegations amid truce

Rights group urges war crimes probe in Yemen war

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Yemen’s government and the Shiite rebels it fought for years should investigate allegations they both committed war crimes and hold perpetrators to account, a human rights group urged Wednesday.
The government reached a cease-fire agreement with the northern Hawthi rebels in February. New … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rights group calls on Yemen and rebels to investigate war crime allegations amid truce.

Clashes erupt between Kyrgyzstan’s police and anti-government protesters in capital

Kyrgyz opposition clashes with police in capital

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – Clashes have broken out at an anti-government demonstration in Kyrgystan’s capital, with protesters setting fire to cars and police firing tear gas and rubber bullets.
Protesters chased police into a five-story building and beat some of them.
The opposition Wednesday is protesting rising energy prices and the arrest … Read more >>>.

Beijing silent, but US Asia allies welcome Obama’s new stance on nuclear weapons

Asian allies welcome new US nuclear stance
TOKYO – U.S. allies in Asia on Wednesday welcomed President Barack Obama’s new policy aimed at reducing the likelihood of nuclear conflict, while powerhouse China was silent over his call for Beijing to better explain its nuclear intentions.
In a much-awaited announcement, Obama vowed Tuesday to [..] Read the original article: here.

Thai TV reports protesters break into Parliament after session is aborted

Thai protesters break into Parliament
BANGKOK – Thai TV has reported that anti-government protesters have broken into the Parliament building after lawmakers aborted their session, with some of the legislators scaling a wall to escape.

Thai PBS reported that protesters pushed past riot police Wednesday to enter the Parliament grounds and that some have reached the second …. Read the original article  : Thai TV reports protesters break into Parliament after session is aborted.

Chinese president Hu to hold talks with Obama during upcoming trip to US for nuclear summit

Chinese president to meet Obama in US this month
BEIJING – Chinese President Hu Jintao will hold talks with President Barack Obama during a coming trip to the U.S. to attend a nuclear security summit in Washington, the Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.
Hu was also scheduled to give a speech at the April 12-13 summit, …. Read the original article  : Chinese president Hu to hold talks with Obama during upcoming trip to US for nuclear summit.

Former Tamil chief minister returns to Sri Lanka – after nine years

NEW DELHI – The Tamil chief minister of Sri Lanka’s northeastern province when Indian troops were deployed has returned to the country for the first time after nearly a decade – and a year after the military routed the Tamil Tigers who had repeatedly tried to kill him.

As Sri Lanka prepares for Thursday’s nationwide election … Read more : Former Tamil chief minister returns to Sri Lanka – after nine years.

Kyrgyzstan cracks down on opposition as unrest threatens to spread to the capital

Kyrgyz opposition vows to go ahead with rallies

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – Violence erupted in this strategic Central Asian nation Wednesday as thousands of protesters angry over the arrests of opposition leaders chased and beat up police officers in the capital and vowed to seize the main government building.
Police used rubber bullets, tear gas and concussion grenades … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kyrgyzstan cracks down on opposition as unrest threatens to spread to the capital.

Governors say Ariz., Nev. to join 14 other states in lawsuit over federal health care overhaul

AZ, NV to join suit over federal health care bill

PHOENIX – The governors of Arizona and Nevada say their states will join 14 others suing the federal government over health care reform.
Gov. Jan Brewer announced Arizona was joining the suit Tuesday night. She signed a bill April 1 that gave her the authority to skirt …. Original source  : Governors say Ariz., Nev. to join 14 other states in lawsuit over federal health care overhaul.

Emboldened Thai protesters poised for more protests as PM defends gentle response

Thai PM criticized for soft handling of protesters

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters embolded by success in pushing through security forces pressed forward with planned rallies Wednesday in the Thai capital, while the prime minister came under fire for the soft-handed reaction to the unrest.
A session of Parliament was aborted Wednesday after about 1,000 protesters ringed the …. Original article  : Emboldened Thai protesters poised for more protests as PM defends gentle response.

Obama puts combating nuclear terrorism at top of agenda

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has put combating nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism at the “top of America’s nuclear agenda” to win a commitment from various nations to secure all vulnerable nuclear materials within four years.
“For the first time, preventing nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism is now at the top of America’s nuclear …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama puts combating nuclear terrorism at top of agenda.

Manmohan, Gilani meeting unlikely at Washington

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will meet Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani during the Nuclear Security Summit here but a meeting between the two premiers is not on the cards.
Obama’s meetings with Manmohan Singh and Gilani were listed by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs …. Original article  : Manmohan, Gilani meeting unlikely at Washington.

Bihar’s Mahadalit panel unconstitutional, says Buta

National Commission for Scheduled Castes chairman Buta Singh has said the Mahadalit Commission formed by the Nitish Kumar govenrment in Bihar was unconstitutional.

“The formation of this commission is totally illegal and unconstitutional. The government has no right to form this commission without the formal consent of the National Commission for Scheduled Caste. In this case, …. Original source  : Bihar’s Mahadalit panel unconstitutional, says Buta.

Now, Bihar CM to undertake Vishwas Yatra

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar has announced to undertake Vishwas Yatra to seek confidence of the voters ahead of forthcoming assembly elections in the state.

“Our government has come clean on expectations of the masses and hence we plan to go to the masses to seek their confidence once again”, chief minister said at the end … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Now, Bihar CM to undertake Vishwas Yatra.

Pakistan edges closer to banning domestic violence, even as Islamists warn of ‘chaos’

Pakistan edges closer to banning domestic violence

RAWALPINDI, Pakistan – For seven years, her husband taunted, threatened and thrashed her, she says. After she filed for divorce, he struck again, throwing enough acid on her face to destroy her left eye.
Why didn’t she leave sooner? Or turn to the police for help? Zakia Perveen’s scarred lips …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan edges closer to banning domestic violence, even as Islamists warn of ‘chaos’.

Protesters prepare for mass rally, defy state of emergency decree in Bangkok

Protesters defy state of emergency in Bangkok

BANGKOK – Thailand’s beleaguered government moved to shut down media outlets of anti-government demonstrators Thursday after declaring a state of emergency, while the activists vowed to escalate their protests if an information blackout is enforced.
The defiant “Red Shirts” have controlled areas of the Thai capital for nearly a month … Read more »»».

Congress calls for shutdown following Maoist massacre in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – A day-long shutdown was called in Chhattisgarh by the opposition Congress Party on Thursday to protest against Tuesday’s Maoist massacre that killed 76 CRPF personnel.

As per initial reports, schools were closed and public transport was hit … Read more »»».

Lawmakers want State Department to rethink Cuba aid program’s shift to private contractors

US funding of Cuba democracy work draws scrutiny
MIAMI – Lawmakers in Washington are pushing the White House to take another look at a Bush-era shift in U.S. aid for Cuba to private contractors instead of nonprofit groups.
Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts and Rep. Howard Berman of California temporarily blocked the renewal of about … Read more »».

Key opposition party in northern Sudan to boycott this week’s parliamentary, local elections

Key opposition party in north boycotts Sudan vote

KHARTOUM, Sudan – A key Sudanese opposition party in the country’s north says it will boycott this week’s local and parliamentary elections.
The pullout by the Umma Party is another blow to the first multiparty elections in more than two decades in Sudan.
The main southern party, the Sudanese People’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Key opposition party in northern Sudan to boycott this week’s parliamentary, local elections.

Germany to host international conference on financial market regulation on May 20

Germany to host financial regulation summit May 20

BERLIN – Germany says it will host an international conference on May 20 to discuss regulatory and supervisory reform of financial markets.
The Finance Ministry said Thursday that participants will include German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French Finance Minister Christine Lagarde and OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurria.
The ministry said “high-level participation” …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Germany to host international conference on financial market regulation on May 20.

Highest risks cited by Census Bureau that could derail the 2010 population count

High risks that threaten to derail 2010 census

The highest risks identified by the Census Bureau that could derail the 2010 population count, as of early April. The risks are listed in order of threat level, with the red category posing the largest potential of harm in driving up costs, creating inaccuracies and causing delays. Risk … Read more : Highest risks cited by Census Bureau that could derail the 2010 population count.

With US census under way, are lawsuits, identity theft and sampling to come? Gov’t gets ready

US census on track but toughest part yet to come

WASHINGTON – The Census Bureau is preparing for a slew of possible debacles that could derail its $15 billion head count as it nears its final stages.
The Associated Press has obtained Census Bureau documents that underscore the highly fragile nature of the high-stakes population count.
The concerns …. Read the original article  : With US census under way, are lawsuits, identity theft and sampling to come? Gov’t gets ready.

Manmohan Singh to preside over price rise meeting

NEW DELHI – The first meeting of the high-powered committee on price rise, constituted by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, will convene its first meeting today.
The committee, comprising Chief Ministers of ten states, was constituted on February 6 after a day-long deliberation on the …. Source  : Manmohan Singh to preside over price rise meeting.

Kyrgyzstan’s opposition proclaims interim government, calls on president to resign

Kyrgyz opposition forms interim government

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – An opposition coalition in Kyrgyzstan proclaimed an interim government Thursday in the wake of clashes that left dozens dead nationwide, and said it would rule for six months before calling new elections.
Opposition leader Roza Otunbayeva said she would head the interim government, and that the parliament was dissolved. …. Source article  : Kyrgyzstan’s opposition proclaims interim government, calls on president to resign.

Big scare on Denver-bound flight may have resulted from man trying to sneak a smoke

AP source: Man on flight trying to sneak smoke
DENVER – A Mideast diplomat who grabbed a surreptitious smoke in a jetliner’s bathroom sparked a bomb scare and widespread alert that sent jet fighters scrambling to intercept the Denver-bound flight, officials said.
But no explosives were found and authorities speaking on …. Original source  : Big scare on Denver-bound flight may have resulted from man trying to sneak a smoke.

AP source: Man who caused scare by trying to sneak smoke on flight will not be charged

AP source: Man on flight will not be charged
DENVER – A law enforcement official says there will be no criminal charges against a Qatari diplomat who sparked a bomb scare Wednesday night by trying to sneak a smoke in a bathroom on a commercial flight from Washington to Denver.
The official wasn’t authorized to … Original source on Gaea Times at : AP source: Man who caused scare by trying to sneak smoke on flight will not be charged.

First talks on new Iran sanctions resolution to be held Thursday after China agrees

First talks on new Iran sanctions resolution
UNITED NATIONS – After months of diplomatic dancing, China has agreed to sit down with five major powers Thursday to discuss possible new sanctions against Iran for refusing to suspend uranium enrichment and start talks on its suspect nuclear program.
French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner told … Read : First talks on new Iran sanctions resolution to be held Thursday after China agrees.

Kyrgyzstan’s opposition controls government headquarters, death toll rises to 68

Kyrgyz opposition controls government building

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – The opposition seized Kyrgyzstan’s government headquarters Thursday following clashes between protesters and security forces that have left 68 people dead nationwide, and appeared to control this Central Asian country that houses a key U.S. air base.
No police guarded the government headquarters, and hundreds of jubilant but calm residents … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kyrgyzstan’s opposition controls government headquarters, death toll rises to 68.

Big scare on Denver-bound airliner may have resulted from man trying to sneak a smoke

AP source: Man on flight trying to sneak smoke
DENVER – A Qatari diplomat trying to sneak a smoke in an airplane bathroom sparked a bomb scare Wednesday night on a flight from Washington to Denver, with fighter jets scrambled and law enforcement put on high alert, officials said.
No explosives were found on the … Read more : Big scare on Denver-bound airliner may have resulted from man trying to sneak a smoke.

No Op Green Hunt in Bihar, says DGP

A day after a deadly attack by the Maoist insurgents killed 76 police in Chhatisgarh, Bihar has ruled out launching operation against the left wing extremists.

“The Operation Green Hunt is a hundred percent Centre sponsored campaign against the Maoist guerrillas and unless the former gives such proposals to the state government, nothing can be said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Air marshal subdues man on DC-Denver flight, may have tried to ignite his shoes

Air marshal subdues man on DC-Denver flight

WASHINGTON – The FBI is probing whether a man tried to ignite his shoes on a DC to Denver flight Wednesday, according to law enforcement officials, who say the man is a Qatari diplomat.
An official said an air marshal on the flight apparently restrained them. The official spoke on …. Original source  : Air marshal subdues man on DC-Denver flight, may have tried to ignite his shoes.

Gates says national security strategy report should be out “within the next few weeks”

Gates: national security report nearly done
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday a comprehensive national security strategy report that is months overdue should be finished in the next few weeks.
President Barack Obama is required by law to submit the report within 150 days of taking office.
“We are, I think, within a …. Original source  : Gates says national security strategy report should be out “within the next few weeks”.

Sri Lankans vote for new Parliament as their leader looks to consolidate power

Sri Lankans vote in parliamentary elections

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lankans faced a clear choice in Thursday’s parliamentary elections between further strengthening the president’s hand in deciding the nation’s postwar fate or trying to check his power.
Few voters were seen at the polls in Colombo in the morning, possibly from voter fatigue just three months …. Source article  : Sri Lankans vote for new Parliament as their leader looks to consolidate power.

AP Sources: Top House Dems concerned Mich.’s Stupak may retire, urge him to seek re-election

AP Sources: Dems urge Stupak to seek re-election
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – The two top-ranking Democrats in the U.S. House fear Rep. Bart Stupak may retire after drawing fierce criticism during the health care debate and have urged him to seek re-election, congressional aides told The Associated Press on Wednesday.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and …. Source  : AP Sources: Top House Dems concerned Mich.’s Stupak may retire, urge him to seek re-election.

Sarah Palin next up for Republican Party activists gathered in New Orleans

Sarah Palin to address gathering of GOP faithful
NEW ORLEANS – Next up, Sarah Palin.
The spotlight at the three-day Southern Republican Leadership Conference turns Friday to the 2008 vice presidential nominee.
The former Alaska governor is among the potential GOP contenders to challenge President Barak Obama in 2012 addressing the gathering of a few …. Source  : Sarah Palin next up for Republican Party activists gathered in New Orleans.

Despite some concerns, Senate Republicans likely to line up behind new arms pact with Russia

Republicans expected to line up behind New START
WASHINGTON – Despite near gridlock in the Senate, Republicans were expected to swing behind a new arms control treaty with Russia that President Barack Obama said they will like, even though some are reserving judgment until Obama can assure them the pact won’t set back …. Source  : Despite some concerns, Senate Republicans likely to line up behind new arms pact with Russia.

Thai protesters storm into TV compound, vowing to reopen station shut by government

Thai protesters storm into TV compound
BANGKOK – Thai anti-government protesters stormed into a telecom company compound Friday where authorities had shut down their vital TV channel, as soldiers and riot police attempted to hold them back with tear gas and water cannons.

It was the first use of force by the government in monthlong protests aimed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Thai police use tear gas against anti-government protesters seeking to reopen TV station

Thai police use tear gas against protesters

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters have stormed a telecom company compound where authorities had shut down their vital TV channel, as soldiers and riot police attempted to hold them back with tear gas and water cannons.
It was the first use of force by the government in monthlong protests aimed at …. Source  : Thai police use tear gas against anti-government protesters seeking to reopen TV station.

Obama, Klaus hold talks as US president wraps trip focused on nuclear arms pact with Russia

Obama, Czech president hold talks as trip ends
PRAGUE – President Barack Obama is wrapping up his stay in the Czech Republic by holding private talks with his host, President Vaclav Klaus.
Obama and Klaus were meeting Friday morning at the centuries-old Prague Castle, the elaborate seat of presidential power. Obama had no other …. Original article  : Obama, Klaus hold talks as US president wraps trip focused on nuclear arms pact with Russia.

Kyrgyz gather to mourn revolt victims hours after 67 are injured in new unrest overnight

Kyrgyz mourn revolt victims; new unrest overnight
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – After a night of gunfire throughout Kyrgyzstan’s capital, thousands of grieving and defiant residents gathered Friday in Bishkek’s main square to mourn victims of this week’s revolt that left at least 75 people dead and forced the president to flee.
Opposition leaders were moving to … Read more »»».

Al-Qaida front group in Iraq claims it’s behind triple suicide bombing at Baghdad embassies

Iraq al-Qaida group says it’s behind embassy hits

BAGHDAD – Al-Qaida’s umbrella group in Iraq has claimed responsibility for a triple suicide bombing outside foreign embassies in Baghdad, which killed more than 40 people.
The group, known as the Islamic State of Iraq, posted a statement on Friday on a Web site that carries al-Qaida and other …. Original source  : Al-Qaida front group in Iraq claims it’s behind triple suicide bombing at Baghdad embassies.

Government approach to tackle Maoists lenient, says Ananth Kumar

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ananth Kumar, has slammed the Central Government for their lenient approach in tackling the Maoist menace in the country.

“The Central Government has been very lenient towards the Naxal (Maoist) movement in the …. Original source  : Government approach to tackle Maoists lenient, says Ananth Kumar.

Australia suspends refugee claims from Sri Lankans, Afghans

Australia: No more Afghan, Sri Lankan refugees

ADELAIDE, Australia – Australia announced Friday that it would no longer accept refugee claims from Sri Lankans and Afghans, saying the situations in those countries has improved enough that their people may no longer need to seek protection elsewhere.
Australia’s human rights commission expressed concern at the decision, which was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australia suspends refugee claims from Sri Lankans, Afghans.

Thai protesters move out in caravan, vowing to reopen TV station shut down by government

Thai protesters march, vowing to revive TV channel

BANGKOK – Thousands of protesters in a noisy vehicle convoy headed for a showdown with the government Friday in a northern Bangkok suburb where they hoped to restore their vital TV channel after it was shut down by authorities.
The military warned that it may be forced to use …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Thai protesters move out in caravan, vowing to reopen TV station shut down by government.

Sri Lanka’s ruling coalition ahead in parliamentary election, early results show

Ruling coalition leads Sri Lankan elections

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka’s ruling coalition led early results Friday of parliamentary elections in which President Mahinda Rajapaksa is seeking to strengthen his grip on power by gaining a two-thirds majority.
Elections department results showed that Rajapaksa’s United People’s Freedom Alliance bagged 25 seats from a total of 225 … Read more : Sri Lanka’s ruling coalition ahead in parliamentary election, early results show.

When Madam Speaker had a cup of tea on road-side stall!

This rarely happens. On Thursday, the common men were pleasantly surprised when they noticed their Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar sipping tea with them along a road-side stall in her home state in Bihar.

The Lok Sabha Speaker was on way to her town in Sasaram in Bihar when she suddenly jumped out of the car … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : When Madam Speaker had a cup of tea on road-side stall!.

Union Pacific: Court fight over $61M in fines for drugs on trains continues after talks fail

Talks break down over fines for drugs on trains

OMAHA, Neb. – Union Pacific Corp. says settlement talks with the federal government have broken down in a dispute about restricting drug smuggling on trains crossing from Mexico because the railroad refuses to pay multimillion dollar fines.
The railroad asked a federal judge Thursday to set aside more …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gingrich accuses Obama of a running secular, socialist machine

Gingrich: Obama is ‘most radical president ever
NEW ORLEANS – Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, a potential presidential candidate in 2012, called Barack Obama on Thursday “the most radical president in American history” who oversees a “secular, socialist machine.”
Gingrich reminded conservative activists why he was one of the nation’s most polarizing leaders … Read more >>>.

Gingrich accuses Obama of running a secular, socialist machine

Gingrich: Obama administration most radical ever
NEW ORLEANS – Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich is calling Barack Obama “the most radical president in American history.”
Gingrich is a potential presidential candidate in 2012 who says his fellow Republicans must work together to stop what he calls Obama’s “secular, socialist machine.”
Highly charged words, for sure. But …. Source article  : Gingrich accuses Obama of running a secular, socialist machine.

N. Dakota high court, board decisions end Fighting Sioux nickname after 4-year legal battle

North Dakota decisions end Fighting Sioux nickname

MAYVILLE, N.D. – A state Supreme Court ruling and a Board of Higher Education decision have retired for good the University of North Dakota’s Fighting Sioux nickname after a four-year legal battle.
The court ruled Thursday that the board had the authority to dump the nickname at any time. The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : N. Dakota high court, board decisions end Fighting Sioux nickname after 4-year legal battle.

Itar-Tass: Anatoly Dobrynin, diplomat at center of Cuban missile crisis, dead at 90

Soviet diplomat Anatoly Dobrynin dead at 90

MOSCOW – Anatoly Dobrynin, a Soviet diplomat who represented Moscow during the Cuban missile crisis and later in key superpower negotiations to curb the growth of nuclear arsenals, is dead at age 90, Russia’s Itar-Tass news agency reported Thursday.
Dobrynin died in Moscow, Itar-Tass said, adding that Mikhail Gorbachev, the … Read more »»».

Thai protesters prepare for mass rally, angered by crackdown on opposition TV and Web sites

Thai protesters defy crackdown, plan capital rally

BANGKOK – Thousands of anti-government demonstrators fanned out Friday to rally sites in the Thai capital for what they warned would be an “unforgettable” effort in their monthlong campaign to oust the government.
Although it has declared a state of emergency, the government has shown no signs that it would …. Read the original article  : here.

Liz Cheney calls Obama’s health care push arrogant and a ‘dangerous power play’”

Liz Cheney calls Obama’s health care push arrogant

NEW ORLEANS – Liz Cheney, daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, has opened a conference of Southern Republicans by calling President Obama’s health care campaign an arrogant power play.
The first speaker at the three-day Southern Republican Leadership Conference, Cheney accused Obama of peddling “phony numbers” to get …. Source  : Liz Cheney calls Obama’s health care push arrogant and a ‘dangerous power play’”.

Official says Israeli PM Netanyahu cancels plans to attend Obama’s nuclear security summit

Official says Israeli PM cancels on nuclear summit
WASHINGTON – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is skipping President Barack Obama’s nuclear security summit next week.
An official with the Israeli government tells The Associated Press that a deputy prime minister will attend in Netanyahu’s place. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because [..] Read the original article: here.

Unclear if charges possible for adoptive mom who sent 7-year-old back to Russia alone

Law murky for mom who returned adopted Russian boy

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – A Tennessee woman has stirred international outrage by sending a Russian boy she adopted back to Moscow on a flight by himself, yet local authorities said it’s not clear if she broke any laws.
The 7-year-old boy, Artyom Savelyev, was put on a plane with … Read : Unclear if charges possible for adoptive mom who sent 7-year-old back to Russia alone.

Maoists kill two Trinamool Congress workers in West Bengal

JHARGRAM – Maoists shot dead two Trinamool Congress workers at Bandhghora village in West Bengal’s West Midnapore District on Saturday. ccording to police, rebels chopped the limbs of Paban Mahato (38) and Kaushik Dutta (35).

Both victims were casual workers with …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists kill two Trinamool Congress workers in West Bengal.

In governors’ races, Dems, GOP hope dark horse candidates can pull them to upset victories

Dems, GOP hope to ride dark horses to victory
NEW YORK – Even Republicans were looking at New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, as a lock this fall to succeed retiring Gov. David Paterson and claim the seat long held by his famous father, Mario Cuomo.
Once Republican Scott Brown showed that Democrats …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : In governors’ races, Dems, GOP hope dark horse candidates can pull them to upset victories.

Soldiers, police in riot gear massing near anti-government protest sites in Thai capital

Thai security forces mass near protesters
BANGKOK – Soldiers and police in riot gear massed near two encampments of anti-government protesters in the Thai capital on Saturday, a possible sign they are planning a crackdown following a month of demonstrations in the city.

The city’s elevated mass transit system known as the Skytrain, which runs past one …. Source  : Soldiers, police in riot gear massing near anti-government protest sites in Thai capital.

Republicans promise battle if Obama’s Supreme Court nominee to replace Stevens is activist

GOP tries to head off liberal Stevens replacement
WASHINGTON – Republicans are promising a “whale of fight” during the congressional election campaign if President Barack Obama picks too liberal a nominee to succeed retiring Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens.
Eleven days before his 90th birthday, Stevens said Friday he would step down when …. Read the original article  : Republicans promise battle if Obama’s Supreme Court nominee to replace Stevens is activist.

Sri Lankan leader promises peace and development after election victory

Sri Lankan leader promises peace after poll win

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka’s President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who has capped his political dominance by winning a strong parliamentary majority, promised on Saturday peace and prosperity to a nation battered by decades of civil war.
Rajapaksa said in a statement that the victory of his party in Thursday’s …. Source article  : Sri Lankan leader promises peace and development after election victory.

Thousands to honor Cherokee Nation Chief Wilma Mankiller, who gave ‘her all for her people’

Thousands expected to honor Cherokee’s Mankiller
OKLAHOMA CITY – Cherokee Nation officials expect thousands of people at the Saturday memorial service for former tribal Chief Wilma Mankiller, one of the most visible American Indian leaders in recent years and among the few women to ever lead a major tribe.
The memorial for Mankiller, who died …. Read the original article  : Thousands to honor Cherokee Nation Chief Wilma Mankiller, who gave ‘her all for her people’.

US, major countries must mediate between India, Pak to resolve issues: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has once again urged the United States and other major countries to mediate between India and Pakistan in order to resolve long pending issues between them, so as to enable Islamabad to focus on the war against terrorism and militancy.

Talking to a visiting US Parliamentary Delegation led by … Original article on : US, major countries must mediate between India, Pak to resolve issues: Gilani.

Singh, Gilani to meet in Bhutan during SAARC summit?

WASHINGTON – While diplomatic observers here are hopeful of a brief encounter between Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani on the sidelines of the upcoming nuclear summit, speculations are also rife that the two leaders may hold a detailed meeting in Bhutan later this month.

Diplomatic observers said that both … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Singh, Gilani to meet in Bhutan during SAARC summit?.

Crash The Tea Party To Launch Website

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The new group that calls itself the Crash The Tea Party is about to launch a website, with the same name, on the eve of Apr 15, which is going to mark the one year anniversary of the tea Party Movement. As can be guessed from the name of the organization itself, … Read : Crash The Tea Party To Launch Website.

Berlusconi ‘eyes Tuscan estate after paparazzi problems in Sardinia’

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is planning to buy a 19-million-pound country estate in Tuscany after becoming tired of his current holiday retreat, a villa on Sardinia’s exclusive Costa Smeralda, which has become over-run by photographers.

The sprawling property, which he’s eyeing, is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Berlusconi ‘eyes Tuscan estate after paparazzi problems in Sardinia’.

Thai protesters to increase pressure as prime minister’s credibility appears weakened

Emboldened Thai protesters vow to raise pressure

BANGKOK – Emboldened Thai protesters vowed Saturday to ratchet up pressure on the government after their first violent skirmish with soldiers eroded the prime minister’s credibility and exposed concerns about the army’s loyalty.
A leader of the anti-government “Red Shirt” movement said Saturday that the demonstrations would not take time … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Thai protesters to increase pressure as prime minister’s credibility appears weakened.

Prime Minister leaves for US, Brazil visit

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh left for a week long visit of Brazil and US on Saturday morning.
During his stay Dr. Singh will attend the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) and Brazil-Russia-India-China (BRIC) Summits in Brasilia.
Dr. Singh would also hold bilateral meetings with US …. Read the original article  : Prime Minister leaves for US, Brazil visit.

US military doctor removes live ammo from head of Afghan soldier

US doctor takes live ammo from soldier’s head

WASHINGTON – A U.S. military doctor removed a live round of ammunition from the head of an Afghan soldier in an unusual and harrowing surgery.
Doctors say a 14.5 millimeter unexploded round – more than 2 inches long – was removed from the scalp of an Afghan National Army … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US military doctor removes live ammo from head of Afghan soldier.

Humiliated Thai PM vows not to give in to intensified protest against government

Thai PM vows not to give in to intensified protest

BANGKOK – Emboldened anti-government demonstrators clashed with Thai soldiers, then shared water and food with them as the first violent confrontation of a monthlong protest compelled authorities to briefly restore a censored TV channel, eroded the prime minister’s credibility and exposed concerns about the army’s loyalty.
But …. Read the original article  : Humiliated Thai PM vows not to give in to intensified protest against government.

In Minnesota, state pushes timely census response but governor takes his time with form

In Minn., governor takes his time with census form

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Some governors have mailed their census forms in front of cameras or turned them in before the April 1 deadline to encourage people to participate in the once-a-decade population count. Others have sent them back with less fanfare.
Not Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : In Minnesota, state pushes timely census response but governor takes his time with form.

Steele gets a much-needed boost from a majority of state Republican Party chairs

Majority of Republican Party chairs back Steele

NEW ORLEANS – Embattled GOP Chairman Michael Steele got a much-needed boost Friday from a majority of state party chiefs ahead of his Saturday speech to activists, his first public appearance since a spending scandal hit the Republican National Committee.
“We stand behind Chairman Steele as he continues to lead …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Steele gets a much-needed boost from a majority of state Republican Party chairs.

Dawn Johnsen withdraws as nominee to head Justice Dept. Office of Legal Counsel

Obama pick for Justice post withdraws
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s nominee to head the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel has withdrawn her bid for confirmation, after several Republicans objected to her criticism of the Bush administration’s terrorist interrogation policies.
Dawn Johnsen’s withdrawal – a setback for the Obama administration – was announced late [..] Read the original article: here.

Press Briefing to Preview The Nuclear Security Summit by Gary Samore, White House Coordinator for WMD Counter-Terrorism and Arms Control, and Ben Rhodes, Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications

11:08 A.M. EDT
MR. HAMMER:  Hello.  Good morning, everyone.  Thanks for joining us.  Today we have with us Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications Ben Rhodes, who will kick off a brief introduction of what is coming up this exciting week.  And then he will be followed by Gary Samore, who’s actually the sherpa for … Read : Press Briefing to Preview The Nuclear Security Summit by Gary Samore, White House Coordinator for WMD Counter-Terrorism and Arms Control, and Ben Rhodes, Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications.

AP sources: Dawn Johnsen withdraws as nominee to head Justice Dept. Office of Legal Counsel

AP sources: Obama pick for Justice post withdraws
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s nominee to head the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel has withdrawn her bid for confirmation after several Republicans objected to her criticism of the Bush administration’s terrorist interrogation policies.
Dawn Johnsen’s withdrawal was disclosed Friday by White House officials who spoke …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : AP sources: Dawn Johnsen withdraws as nominee to head Justice Dept. Office of Legal Counsel.

Navi Mumbai polls: Police arrest 15 after NCP, Congress activists clash

MUMBAI – Navi Mumbai Police cracked down on activists of the Congress party and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Sunday after both sides clashed with each other during area municipal corporation polls.

Both NCP and Congress activists alleged that …. Source article  : Navi Mumbai polls: Police arrest 15 after NCP, Congress activists clash.

Lack of money stalls Obama’s jobs agenda; GOP objects, as does leading Senate Democrat

Obama election-year jobs agenda stalls in Congress
WASHINGTON – Seven months before voters determine control of Congress, the election-year jobs agenda promised by President Barack Obama and Democrats is running out of steam.
That’s because Democrats have no money to pay for the program.
Both Republicans and the Democratic chairman of the Senate Budget Committee objected … Read more >>>.

3 days of voting kicks off in Sudan’s elections despite opposition calls for delay

Voting begins in Sudan’s historic elections

KHARTOUM, Sudan – Three days of voting began Sunday in Sudan’s first competitive elections in nearly a quarter century despite repeated opposition calls to delay the vote.
In Khartoum, turnout was lighter than expected in the first few hours of voting, aside from a few enthusiastic supporters of President Omar al-Bashir.
The …. Original article  : 3 days of voting kicks off in Sudan’s elections despite opposition calls for delay.

Poland, in a state of mourning, awaits repatriation of bodies of president, first lady

Poland waits repatriation of president, first lady

WARSAW, Poland – Poland is enveloped in mourning, with many attending church services to mark the loss of many of the country’s elite, including President Lech Kaczynski, in a plane crash in Russia.
At the Field Cathedral of the Polish Army, hundreds gathered for Sunday morning Mass and left flowers, … Read more »»».

‘Designing Women’ star Dixie Carter dies at 70; used charm and looks to win host of TV roles

‘Designing Women’ star Dixie Carter dies at 70

LOS ANGELES – “Designing Women” star Dixie Carter, whose Southern charm and natural beauty won her a host of television roles, has died at age 70.
Carter died Saturday morning, according to publicist Steve Rohr, who represents Carter and her husband, actor Hal Holbrook. He declined to disclose the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Designing Women’ star Dixie Carter dies at 70; used charm and looks to win host of TV roles.

Protesters reject new talks after clashes in Bangkok kill 20, including Japanese journalist

Thai protesters reject talks after deadly clashes

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters dug into their encampments around Bangkok and rejected talk of negotiations Sunday after a monthlong standoff escalated into clashes that killed 20 people in Thailand’s worst political violence in nearly two decades.
Bullet casings, rocks and pools of blood littered the streets near a main tourist [..] Read the original article: here.

19 more dead, 800 injured in Thai political violence

BANGKOK – Fugitive former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has said that he is quite traumatised by the violent confrontations between his Red Shirt supporters and Thai soldiers on Saturday.

The clashes on Saturday resulted in at least 19 deaths and more than 800 injured.
“Thaksin would like the red-shirts to use …. Source  : 19 more dead, 800 injured in Thai political violence.

Fighting bitterly contested election, British leaders make campaign a family affair

British election becomes a family affair
LONDON – One wants to dispel the notion that he’s half-man, half-machine. The other wants to banish the notion that he’s too posh for office. So in a break with tradition, the men fighting to become Britain’s prime minister are turning to their wives for help.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown and …. Original article  : Fighting bitterly contested election, British leaders make campaign a family affair.

North Carolina-bound Harrison Barnes leads US junior team to 101-97 victory over world players

Barnes has 27 in US junior team’s 101-97 win

PORTLAND, Ore. – North Carolina-bound Harrison Barnes scored 27 points and the U.S. Junior National Select Team beat a team of young international players at the Nike Hoop Summit on Saturday night.
Barnes, a 6-foot-8 guard from Ames (Iowa) High School, hit a key 3-pointer that put Team …. Source  : North Carolina-bound Harrison Barnes leads US junior team to 101-97 victory over world players.

Actress Dixie Carter dies at 70; ‘Designing Women’ star used Southern charm on TV, Broadway

‘Designing Women’ actress Dixie Carter dies at 70

LOS ANGELES – “Designing Women” star Dixie Carter, whose Southern charm and natural beauty won her a host of television roles, has died at age 70.
Carter died Saturday morning, according to publicist Steve Rohr, who represents Carter and her husband, actor Hal Holbrook. He declined to disclose the … Read more >>>.

Japanese TV cameraman for Reuters shot to death while covering Thai protest clash

Japanese cameraman killed covering Thai protests

TOKYO – A Japanese TV cameraman who worked for Reuters for more than 15 years was among those killed in a bloody clash in Thailand between anti-government protesters and soldiers.
Hiro Muramoto, 43, was shot Saturday while covering fighting in Bangkok, when Thai soldiers fired rubber bullets into crowds and live … Original article on : Japanese TV cameraman for Reuters shot to death while covering Thai protest clash.

Protesters shun talks after clashes in Bangkok kill 18, including Japanese journalist

Protesters shun talks after deadly Bangkok clashes

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters said Sunday they would not negotiate an end to violence in the Thai capital after savage clashes between activists and soldiers that killed at least 18 people and injured hundreds.
Thousands of “Red Shirt” protesters swarmed back into an area that had briefly been taken by …. Original article  : Protesters shun talks after clashes in Bangkok kill 18, including Japanese journalist.

Lawmakers tell crowd they’ll push for immigration reform as rallies held in US cities

Thousands rally for immigration reform across US

LAS VEGAS – Thousands of people rallied Saturday in several cities in a bid to urge Congress to act swiftly on immigration reform.
Outside a federal building in Las Vegas, demonstrators cheered Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Rep. Shelley Berkley, D-Nev., who told them they’re committed to making immigration …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lawmakers tell crowd they’ll push for immigration reform as rallies held in US cities.

Thai troops retreat from street battles with protesters; 18 dead, including foreign journalist

Thai army pulls back from protest clashes; 18 dead

BANGKOK – Savage clashes between protesters and Thai soldiers killed at least 18 people and injured hundreds before both sides retreated, no closer to ending a monthlong occupation of parts of the capital by demonstrators demanding new elections. Hopes were expressed for negotiations Sunday.
Bullet casings, rocks and …. Original article  : Thai troops retreat from street battles with protesters; 18 dead, including foreign journalist.

Smaller-than-expected crowds at Cuba’s ‘concert for the homeland’ to defend government

Cuba concert to counter critics draws sparse crowd

HAVANA – A surprisingly small crowd sweated and sang along to performances by Cuban rock, folk and salsa stars Saturday, at what the communist government billed as a politically important “concert for the homeland.”
Organizers had said the show would be headlined by Cuba’s most famous folk singer, Silvio …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Smaller-than-expected crowds at Cuba’s ‘concert for the homeland’ to defend government.

Upsets may be likely in some governors’ races for both parties

Governors’ races may be tough for incumbents
NEW YORK – Even Republicans were looking at New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, as a lock this fall to succeed retiring Gov. David Paterson and claim the seat long held by his famous father, Mario Cuomo.
Once Republican Scott Brown showed that Democrats in Massachusetts …. Original source  : Upsets may be likely in some governors’ races for both parties.

Embattled Repubican chairman Michael Steele acknowledges mistakes, vows to move on

GOP chairman Steele says ‘I’ve made mistakes’
NEW ORLEANS – In damage control mode, GOP national chairman Michael Steele on Saturday sought to quell the furor over his management of the Republican National Committee by acknowledging errors and vowing to learn from them.
“I’m the first here to admit that I’ve made mistakes, and it’s …. Source  : Embattled Repubican chairman Michael Steele acknowledges mistakes, vows to move on.

By a single vote, an absent Romney wins 2012 test vote

Romney wins 2012 test vote
NEW ORLEANS – Mitt Romney didn’t attend the Southern Republican Leadership Conference in New Orleans, but still got a boost from those at the conference.
The former Massachusetts governor won a test vote of likely 2012 presidential candidates – by one vote. He got 439.
Texas Rep. Ron Paul came in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Embattled GOP chairman Michael Steele acknowledges mistakes, vows to move on

GOP chairman Steele: ‘I’ve made mistakes’
NEW ORLEANS – In damage control mode, GOP national chairman Michael Steele on Saturday sought to quell the furor over his management of the Republican National Committee by acknowledging errors and vowing to learn from them.
“I’m the first here to admit that I’ve made mistakes, and it’s been …. Read the original article  : here.

Clinton calls Kyrgyzstan’s interim leader to pledge US aid after its president was deposed

Clinton calls Kyrgyzstan’s interim leader
WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has spoken with Kyrgyzstan’s interim leader to convey U.S. support after that country’s president was deposed.

The State Department says Clinton telephoned Roza Otunbayeva on Saturday to offer humanitarian aid and to discuss the need for stability in the region. It comes after Kyrgyzstan’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Aurangabad Municipal Corporation Election Held

AURANGABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Aurangabad Municipal Corporation election in 98 wards out of a total of 99 were conducted successfully minus a few ruckus and violence that was witnessed and reported in several different booths around the city. Reportedly, 7,00,223 voters cast their votes for 816 candidates taking part in the election. Aurangabad Municipal … Original source on Gaea Times at : Aurangabad Municipal Corporation Election Held.

Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Election 2010 Updates

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The 2010 Municipal elections for Navi Mumbai Corporation took place on Sunday and the election was more or less peaceful as media entities have reported. The voter turnaround was more than 56% and only one incident of rioting was reported. The Navi Mumbai police later said that 25 NCP and Congress …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Election 2010 Updates.

Tales of survivors, Iran dominate Israeli commemoration of Jews who perished in Holocaust

Survivors’ tales, Iran dominate Holocaust day
JERUSALEM – The mournful wail of air raid sirens pierced the air on Monday and the country came to a standstill as Israel, built on the ashes of the Nazi Holocaust, remembered the 6 million Jews who perished during the dark days of World War II.
Looming …. Read the original article  : Tales of survivors, Iran dominate Israeli commemoration of Jews who perished in Holocaust.

Kyrgyzstan’s deposed president gathers supporters, opponents threaten arrest

Kyrgyzstan’s deposed president gathers supporters

TEYIT, Kyrgyzstan – Kyrgyzstan’s deposed president on Monday rallied supporters in his home village, testing his ability to mount resistance to the opposition forces that drove him out of the capital last week.
As about 500 people gathered in a muddy field in Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s native village of Teyit, the deputy head …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kyrgyzstan’s deposed president gathers supporters, opponents threaten arrest.

Protesters parade coffins after deadly weekend clashes in new push to topple Thai government

Thai protesters parade coffins after clashes

BANGKOK – Red-shirted protesters paraded coffins through Thailand’s capital Monday in a renewed attempt to pressure the government to step down after street fighting left 21 people dead, pushing this Southeast Asian nation closer to political anarchy.
Neither side appeared willing to end a political stalemate that exploded on Saturday when … Read : Protesters parade coffins after deadly weekend clashes in new push to topple Thai government.

Obama to ask Pakistan to take stern, decisive action against Lashkar-e-Taiba

WASHINGTON – A senior United States official has said that U.S. President Barack Obama will ask Pakistan Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani to take stern and decisive action against banned militant organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
According to the official, despite the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Singapore: Filipinos Casts Vote

SINGAPORE (GaeaTimes.com)- 300 Filipinos in Singapore have cast their vote by the automatic voting system which employs PCO (Precinct Count Optical Scan Machine) technique. As a matter of fact, the voting process has speed up with the use of Precinct Count Optical Scan Machines which made the whole thing happen only in five minutes. … Read more >>>.

While pessimistic about industry, news executives don’t want to turn to government for bailout

News execs pessimistic, but don’t want handouts

NEW YORK – Although news executives know their industry is in trouble, most are unwilling to turn to the government or interest groups for help.
The Pew Research Center’s Project for Excellence in Journalism found that three quarters of editors and news directors say they have serious reservations about government … Read more »»».

Protesters stage funeral procession following bloody weekend clashes

Protesters stage funeral procession
BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters paraded coffins through the Thai capital Monday following a weekend of savage street fighting that left 21 killed and fears of further violence unless the activists and government reach a political compromise.

At least 874 others were injured when security forces tried to crack down Saturday on demonstrators who … Read more »».

‘Designing Women’ star Dixie Carter dies in Houston from complications of endometrial cancer

‘Designing Women’ star Dixie Carter dies of cancer

LOS ANGELES – New details are emerging in the death of “Designing Women” star Dixie Carter.
Publicist Steve Rohr told The Associated Press on Sunday that Carter died in Houston of complications of endometrial (en-doh-MEE’-tree-ul) cancer.
Carter died Saturday at age 70. Husband and fellow actor Hal Holbrook called a …. Read the original article  : ‘Designing Women’ star Dixie Carter dies in Houston from complications of endometrial cancer.

Protestors march in Hollywood for equal Social Security benefits for same-sex couples

CA protest seeks Social Security benefits for gays

LOS ANGELES – Protesters chanting slogans and carrying signs marched in Hollywood Sunday to demand equal Social Security benefits for same-sex couples.
About 700 peaceful demonstrators walked more than a mile to rally outside the Hollywood Social Security Administration office, said Lorri L. Jean, CEO of the Los Angeles …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama: Al-Qaida would use nuke if it could; terrorist access ‘biggest threat’ to security

Obama: Al-Qaida would use nuke if it could
WASHINGTON – If al-Qaida acquired nuclear weapons it “would have no compunction at using them,” President Barack Obama said Sunday on the eve of a summit aimed at finding ways to secure the world’s nuclear stockpile.
“The single biggest threat to U.S. security, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama: Al-Qaida would use nuke if it could; terrorist access ‘biggest threat’ to security.

Obama remembers Holocaust on 65th anniversary of liberation of Nazi concentration camps

Obama recalls Holocaust, liberation of Nazi camps
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is marking Holocaust Remembrance Day with a statement honoring the memory of “those who endured the horrors” of the Nazi atrocities of World War II.
The president says the Holocaust calls on all people to renew their commitment to prevent genocide and “to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama remembers Holocaust on 65th anniversary of liberation of Nazi concentration camps.

With state funding a fraction of 2000’s sum, Census response rates lag in hard-to-reach areas

Lacking state funding, Census response rates lag
OAKLAND, Calif. – State and local governments hammered by the recession have cut spending on outreach for the 2010 U.S. Census, leaving hard-to-reach neighborhoods with response rates that may fall behind the count a decade ago, officials said.
The funding cutbacks have come at all levels, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : With state funding a fraction of 2000’s sum, Census response rates lag in hard-to-reach areas.

Sudan begins voting to decide political fate of president indicted for war crimes in Darfur

Sudanese vote to decide fate of indicted president

KHARTOUM, Sudan – Sudanese voted Sunday in the impoverished country’s first multiparty elections in a quarter century, which will determine whether President Omar al-Bashir wins another term despite his indictment on charges of war crimes in Darfur.
The vote is supposed to bring a democratically elected government, prepare the …. Original article  : Sudan begins voting to decide political fate of president indicted for war crimes in Darfur.

On eve of nuclear summit, Obama holds series of individual meetings with foreign leaders

Ahead of nuclear talks, Obama sees foreign leaders
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has begun a series of meetings with foreign leaders who have come to Washington for his nuclear security conference.
The first to arrive for talks at Blair House across from the White House was India’s prime minister, Manmohan Singh (MUHN’-moh-hahn sing). Obama … Read this article on Gaea Times at : On eve of nuclear summit, Obama holds series of individual meetings with foreign leaders.

US: Afghan President Hamid Karzai is ‘commander in chief’

US: Afghan leader is ‘commander in chief’
KABUL – After days of discord, U.S. officials on Sunday went one step farther in their new gentler approach to Afghan President Hamid Karzai, expressing sympathy for the pressure he faces and promoting him as commander in chief of the warring nation.

U.S.-Afghan relations grew tense last week when Karzai, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US: Afghan President Hamid Karzai is ‘commander in chief’.

View from the South: Miss. governor says Virginia’s Confederate History Month is no big deal

Miss. gov says Confederacy flap not worth ‘diddly’

NEW ORLEANS – The dustup over Virginia’s proclamation for Confederate History Month seems like a lot of noise over something that “doesn’t amount to diddly,” Mississippi’s governor said in an interview aired Sunday.
Virginia’s Republican governor, Bob McDonnell, apologized for leaving out of his proclamation any reference to slavery. …. Original source  : View from the South: Miss. governor says Virginia’s Confederate History Month is no big deal.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh condoles Poland President’s death

WASHINGTON DC – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Sunday condoled the death of Poland President Lech Kaczynski, who was killed in a plane crash in Russia on Saturday.
Dr. Singh, presently on a weeklong visit to the United States and Brazil, expressed his shock and sadness over the death of Polish President Lech … Read more >>>.

The head of each delegation at Monday’s summit on nuclear security

Top national representatives at the nuclear summit
A list of the heads of each nation’s delegation to President Barack Obama’s nuclear security conference, beginning Monday in Washington, as provided by the White House.
Algerian Foreign Minister Mourad Medelci
Argentine President Cristina Fernandez
Armenian President Serge Sarkisian
Australian Defense Minister John Faulkner
Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme
Brazilian President …. Original article  : The head of each delegation at Monday’s summit on nuclear security.

Tehran doesn’t see China’s statement at nuke summit as support for new Iran sanctions

Iran doubts China would back new Iran sanctions
TEHRAN, Iran – Tehran says it’s not so sure China would back new sanctions against Iran over its controversial nuclear program.
The West fears the program masks ambitions for a nuclear weapon and is pushing for new sanctions. Tehran denies the charge.
President Barack Obama and Chinese President … Read : Tehran doesn’t see China’s statement at nuke summit as support for new Iran sanctions.

Thai protesters vow more street rallies if prime minister doesn’t step down immediately

Thai protesters vow more rallies unless PM resigns

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters threatened Tuesday to unleash another street “offensive” aimed at deposing the prime minister and described an unexpected ruling that his party be disbanded as just a ploy to buy time in Thailand’s political crisis.
On Monday, the Election Commission ordered the dissolution of the Democrat … Read more >>>.

Shashi Tharoor Releases Statement

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Union Finance Minister, Shashi Tharoor, is mired in controversy yet again, this time regarding the stakes in the Kochi IPL team. It has been reported by Lalit Modi that he had been asked by the Minister not to raise any questions regarding the details of the stakeholders in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nepal’s Maoist chief to get poetic justice

KATHMANDU – Concerned at the way Nepal’s major parties continue to bicker for power while the peace process and the new constitution lie in danger, a group of writers has decided to deal out poetic justice to the top leaders, beginning with Maoist chief Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.

Led by Parijat Smriti Kendra, an organisation founded …. Read the original article  : here.

Non-tribals’ strike hits life in parts of Jharkhand

RANCHI – The one-day strike called by non-tribals to protest the Jharkhand government’s move to hold panchayat polls by reserving the post of village council heads for tribal people affected normal life in some parts of the state Tuesday.

Schools and shops were closed in Ranchi, roads were deserted and attendance in government offices was thin. …. Read the original article  : Non-tribals’ strike hits life in parts of Jharkhand.

Manmohan Singh raises issue of terrorist outfits with Canadian PM

WASHINGTON – Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh raised the issue of terrorist outfits with his Canadian counterpart Stephen Harper on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit at the Convention Centre here on Monday evening.
During … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh raises issue of terrorist outfits with Canadian PM.

‘Responsible’ Pak needs nukes as deterrent against India: Gilani

WASHINGTON – Allaying the international community’s concerns over the impending threat posed by extremists to the country’s nuclear assets, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has described his country as a ‘responsible nuclear power’ while rejecting calls to halt production of …. Source article  : ‘Responsible’ Pak needs nukes as deterrent against India: Gilani.

Kyrgyz interim government says deposed president must come to capital or face arrest

Kyrgyz leader must come to capital or face arrest

JALAL-ABAD, Kyrgyzstan – A leader of the self-declared interim government that has claimed power in Kyrgyzstan said Tuesday the deposed president must return to the capital or face arrest by special forces.
But ousted president Kurmanbek Bakiyev was defiant, rallying some 5,000 supporters in his power base and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kyrgyz interim government says deposed president must come to capital or face arrest.

Wrong video of health care protest spurs feud over black lawmakers’ claims of racial slurs

Wrong video of health protest spurs N-word feud

Three Democratic congressmen – all black – say they heard racial slurs as they walked through thousands of angry protesters outside the U.S. Capitol. A white lawmaker says he heard the epithets too. Conservative activists say the lawmakers are lying.
What does the video show? Not much. Indeed, new …. Source article  : Wrong video of health care protest spurs feud over black lawmakers’ claims of racial slurs.

Conservatives looking for tea party support in Supreme Court nomination battle with Obama

Groups look for tea party support on nomination
WASHINGTON – Conservative groups preparing to fight President Barack Obama over his next Supreme Court nomination are negotiating to bring in tea party activists, hoping their enthusiasm will help defeat any nominee they feel is too liberal.
The White House says it is considering about 10 people …. Read the original article  : here.

In Rahul’s footsteps, Congress builds a youth base

NEW DELHI – Under Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi’s keen eye, the Congress plans to induct and train 15,000 volunteers, drawing them from every village block, in the next seven months to build a young leadership with strong organisational skills.
The Seva Dal, a frontal body of the Congress working at the grassroots, will …. Original source  : In Rahul’s footsteps, Congress builds a youth base.

US ambassador to Australia criticizes proposed online filter, says Internet should be free

US diplomat criticizes Australia’s Web filter

CANBERRA, Australia – There are ways to police illegal material on the Internet without resorting to a mandatory filter such as the one proposed by Australia’s government, a U.S. diplomat says.
The comments by Jeff Bleich, the U.S. ambassador to Australia, to the Australian news program “Q&A” on Monday came barely … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US ambassador to Australia criticizes proposed online filter, says Internet should be free.

Brazil rejects new Iran sanctions

WASHINGTON – Brazil has called for diplomacy rather than sanctions to resolve the row over Iran’s nuclear programme, Iranian state-run Press TV reported Tuesday.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit here Monday, Brazilian Defence Minister Nelson Jobim said past sanctions never hindered Iran’s nuclear activities.
The US and some …. Source  : Brazil rejects new Iran sanctions.

Afghan officials more assertive about telling donor nations where money should be spent

Afghan officials want to direct more foreign aid

KABUL – Tired of their back-seat role, Afghan government officials are increasingly standing up to Washington and other foreign capitals – displaying a new streak of independence also seen in President Hamid Karzai’s push-back against what he considers foreign interference.
The Obama administration is trying to dampen the storm … Read : Afghan officials more assertive about telling donor nations where money should be spent.

Mentally ill man in China kills 2, wounds 5 after stabbing rampage near elementary school

2 dead after stabbing rampage near S. China school

BEIJING – A mentally ill man went on a stabbing rampage after students left a nearby elementary school, killing a second grader and an elderly passer-by and wounding five others, a government Web site said Tuesday, in the second random attack on schoolchildren in three weeks.
The attack …. Read the original article  : Mentally ill man in China kills 2, wounds 5 after stabbing rampage near elementary school.

France won’t give up nuclear weapons: Sarkozy

WASHINGTON – France will not give up its nuclear weapons because doing so would jeopardise the country’s “security and safety”, President Nicolas Sarkozy has said.

A virtual world where there would be no nuclear weapons… everyone would applaud that, but I cannot jeopardise the security and safety of my country,” Xinhua quoted Sarkozy as saying on … Original source on Gaea Times at : France won’t give up nuclear weapons: Sarkozy.

Laura Bush killed a Guy

Los Angeles (GaeaTimes.com) Laura Bush Killed a Guy. This statement is true and false at the same time. The former first lady was supposedly involved in killing a man, if it can be said so.

The incident happened in 1963 and a long time has passed since the incident took place. Laura was only 17 …. Read the original article  : Laura Bush killed a Guy.

The OMG moment of PM Singh’s day

WASHINGTON – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had a busy day Monday at the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington D.C.
He had long meetings with the heads of government of Morroco, Kazhakstan and Canada. But, at the end of the day, what grabbed attention of [..] Read the original article: here.

Biden courts NAM on nukes

WASHINGTON – Some three years after then Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice asked India to “move past old ways of thinking” as the “Non-Aligned Movement has lost its meaning”, the United States is courting the group on the issue of nuclear security.
“The goals of the Non-Aligned Movement and my country on the important …. Read the original article  : Biden courts NAM on nukes.

Union official: Andy Stern to step down as president of Service Employees International Union

Union official: Stern to leave Service Employees
WASHINGTON – One of nation’s most politically powerful – and polarizing – union leaders is preparing to step down from his post.
Andy Stern, president of the 2.2-million member Service Employees International Union, plans to resign, a senior union official told employees in an e-mail on Monday.
The message …. Source article  : Union official: Andy Stern to step down as president of Service Employees International Union.

Karzai to meet UN commission probing Benazir murder following Zardari’s request

LAHORE – Afghan President Hamid Karzai has agreed to meet the UN commission probing the death of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto following a request from President Asif Ali Zardari.

According to a private television channel, Karzai would meet members of the commission in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Karzai to meet UN commission probing Benazir murder following Zardari’s request.

Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti Triggers Political Turmoil

LUCKNOW, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- It is quite sad to note that the 119th birth anniversary of Babasaheb Ambedkar, the legendary Dalit leader has got mired in political turf war and turmoil. The Congress and BSP are engaged in a battle of winning the trust of the Dalits at Ambedkarnagar. As one can understand the party …. Source article  : Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti Triggers Political Turmoil.

Polish president – a difficult man when alive, popular in death

WARSAW – In his lifetime Lech Kaczynski was a very difficult man and his approval rate had gone down to less than 20 percent. But after his death he has become a very popular person, next only to the late Pope John Paul II, a Polish native.
“Such is the irony of our tragic [..] Read the original article: here.

Michelle Obama launches international agenda in Mexico on first solo visit as first lady

Michelle Obama launches solo agenda on Mexico tour
MEXICO CITY – Two months after rolling out a national campaign against childhood obesity in the U.S., first lady Michelle Obama is setting her sights on the rest of the world and the role she wants to play in it.
She is on her first solo visit … Read : Michelle Obama launches international agenda in Mexico on first solo visit as first lady.

Cyber Command nominee says military can fire back in cyber attacks, must follow rules of war

Military asserts right to return cyber attacks
WASHINGTON – The U.S. must fire back against cyber attacks swiftly and strongly and should act to counter or disable a threat even when the identity of the attacker is unknown, the director of the National Security Agency told Congress.
Lt. Gen. Keith Alexander, who is … Original article on : Cyber Command nominee says military can fire back in cyber attacks, must follow rules of war.

PM goes overseas, but Tharoor steals headlines (Washington Diary)

WASHINGTON – Shashi Tharoor has again shown his talent for stealing headlines every time the prime minister travels overseas. This is the second time in a row Tharoor, junior foreign minister and a former UN diplomat, has created a big splash during a foreign trip by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
When the prime minister …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Important bills likely in Budget Session-II (To go with parliament curtain raiser)

NEW DELHI – Apart from the women’s reservation bill passed by the Rajya Sabha and the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2010, to replace an ordinance, no significant legislation was passed in parliament in the first part of the budget session.

Some important bills listed for introduction or passage in … Read : Important bills likely in Budget Session-II (To go with parliament curtain raiser).

Many pitfalls ahead for UPA over crucial bills

NEW DELHI – Parliament opens after a month-long break Thursday with the government on decidedly shaky ground as it tries to think of ways to steer crucial bills through an unhelpful opposition, decides strategy on how to save the finance bill and prepares to combat criticism on internal security issues.

Three legislative measures of the Congress-led … Original article on : Many pitfalls ahead for UPA over crucial bills.

Gilani admits threat of ‘dirty bombs’ more real than ever

WASHINGTON – Admitting for the first time that the threat of extremists having nuclear bombs is more real than ever, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has once again assured the international community that Islamabad has made all possible arrangements to ward off any ‘misadventure on this count.’

Speaking during a dinner hosted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Fully committed’ Pak working with India on confidence building measures: Gilani

WASHINGTON – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has reiterated that his country’s ‘democratic’ government is fully committed to ensure nuclear security, adding that it is working with India on several confidence building measures in order to address all pending issues between both the countries.
Interacting …. Source article  : ‘Fully committed’ Pak working with India on confidence building measures: Gilani.

Prime Minister to check all facts on Tharoor’s role in IPL auction

WASHINGTON – Amid protests by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding a CBI probe and sacking of Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor for his alleged role in the Indian Premier League auction, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Wednesday …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Prime Minister to check all facts on Tharoor’s role in IPL auction.

Manmohan Singh would visit Pak soon: Gilani

WASHINGTON – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that his Indian counterpart Dr. Manmohan Singh has accepted his offer to visit Islamabad.
Speaking during a short media briefing after the conclusion of the two-day nuclear security summit here, Gilani said Dr. Singh …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan Singh would visit Pak soon: Gilani.

India, China working for practical solution to border issue: PM

WASHINGTON – Ahead of his meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao in Brazil, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said India and China were working hard to find “pragmatic solution” to the border problem and were working closely on an array of global issues, including climate change.
“We have the border problem and that problem … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India, China working for practical solution to border issue: PM.

No drift in India-US ties: Manmohan

WASHINGTON – Discounting suggestions that Indo-US relations were in a drift or were not as warm as they used to be under the previous Bush administration, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said the two countries enjoyed a multi-faceted relationship and was not just a “single track operation”.
“Well I have a very good relationship with …. Source article  : No drift in India-US ties: Manmohan.

After Nepal government, India conveys concern to Maoists

KATHMANDU – A day after formally conveying its displeasure to the Nepal government for scrapping a deal with an Indian state-owned company to print Nepali passports, India Wednesday conveyed its concern at the growing anti-Indian activities of Nepals former Maoist guerrillas to the ex-rebels themselves.

India’s ambassador to Nepal, Rakesh Sood, Wednesday met Maoist chief and …. Original source  : After Nepal government, India conveys concern to Maoists.

We will continue to set up parks: Mayawati

LUCKNOW – The Uttar Pradesh government will continue to set up parks and memorials in the names of Dalit icons despite the criticism by political opponents of the ruling Bahujan Samaj Party, Chief Minister Mayawati suggested Wednesday.

“We have been constructing parks and memorials in the names of important Dalit and OBC (Other Backward Classes) personalities … Read this article on Gaea Times at : We will continue to set up parks: Mayawati.

India does not favour Iran sanctions

WASHINGTON – Even as the US is engaged in gathering support for sanctions against Iran, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told President Barack Obama that while India did not favour Iran’s nuclear weapon ambitions, sanctions only hurt the poor.
Manmohan Singh said he had told Obama “we do not favour Iran’s nuclear weapon ambitions. I …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Thai protesters to consolidate forces in Bangkok, but cancel march on army base

Thai protesters to consolidate forces in Bangkok

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters said they will consolidate their forces in the commercial heart of the Thai capital after canceling a march Wednesday on a military camp where the prime minister has sheltered during their month-old campaign to oust him.
A failed attempt by security forces to flush thousands of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Thai protesters to consolidate forces in Bangkok, but cancel march on army base.

Rahul to pay tribute to Ambedkar pic not statue in Mayawati land

AMBEDKARNAGAR – Denied permission to garland a statue of B.R. Ambedkar in this town named after him, Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi has opted to offer floral tributes to a picture of the architect of the constitution on his birth anniversary here Wednesday.

Local Congress workers have hastily mobilised a large portrait of Ambedkar, which has … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rahul to pay tribute to Ambedkar pic not statue in Mayawati land.

Glendale City Council approves Reinsdorf group’s Coyotes proposal, votes down 2nd group

Glendale council OKs Reinsdorf group’s proposal

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale City Council has voted in favor a proposed arena lease agreement submitted by a group headed by Chicago sports mogul Jerry Reinsdorf that is seeking to buy the Phoenix Coyotes.
The council acted on a second proposal Tuesday night, rejecting a plan submitted by Ice Edge …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Glendale City Council approves Reinsdorf group’s Coyotes proposal, votes down 2nd group.

CPI-M for more autonomous bodies

AGARTALA – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Thursday demanded the creation of constitutional bodies to provide autonomy to tribals and non-tribals in backward and hilly areas and said Tripura was a model of democratic decentralisation.

“If constitutional autonomous bodies were formed for both tribals and non-tribals in backward areas across India, it would defuse the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CPI-M for more autonomous bodies.

Dantewada attack prompts repeated adjournments of Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – There were unpleasant scenes in the Lok Sabha Thursday with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the ruling Congress accusing each other of using Maoist guerrillas for electoral gains, prompting repeated adjournments.
BJP and Congress MPs were caught in an ugly row over the April 6 Dantewada massacre, forcing Speaker … Read more : Dantewada attack prompts repeated adjournments of Lok Sabha.

Who’s in charge here? Former Gov. Jeb Bush enjoys a good year in the Legislature

Former Gov. Bush: Still in charge at the Capitol?

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Former Gov. Jeb Bush is having a remarkably good legislative session, even though he has been out of office for nearly four years.
Measures to ease class-size limits, cut corporate income taxes, overhaul Medicaid and link teacher pay to student performance have advanced through the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Who’s in charge here? Former Gov. Jeb Bush enjoys a good year in the Legislature.

Tharoor seeks time to meet Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor has reportedly sought time for a meeting with UPA Chairperson and Congress Party president Sonia Gandhi today.
Sources close to the minister said that the appointment has been sought to clear the air on the … Read more : Tharoor seeks time to meet Sonia Gandhi.

No Maoists in West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee

KOLKATA – Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee has said there are no Maoists in West Bengal.
Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday, Banerjee claimed there are about 200 camps of the Communist Party India (Marxist), which have unleashed violence across the state.
Criticising the so-called Operation Green Hunt of the government, Banerjee …. Original article  : No Maoists in West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee.

Rajya Sabha pays homage to Chhattisgarh martyrs, adjourned again

NEW DELHI – Rajya Sabha MPs stood in silence for two minutes to pay homage to the 76 security men killed by Maoists in Chhattisgarh before being adjourned for the second time till 2 p.m. Thursday over demands for a debate on the attack.
After paying tribute to the martyrs, the opposition parties laid … Read more >>.

Army preserves items of remembrance at Section 60, Arlington’s place for Iraq, Afghan war dead

Mementoes at Arlington graves form archival record

ARLINGTON, Va. – Army curator James Speraw stood by Spc. Christopher Coffland’s grave, tucked among the rows of white headstones at Arlington National Cemetery, and read the inscription on dog tags that he cupped gently in his palms.
“I thank God every time I remember you,” said the tags. “We … Read more »».

Palin’s lecture demands – private jet, suite, bendable straws

WASHINGTON – Sarah Palin, former Alaska governor who was John McCain’s vice-presidential candidate in 2008, has sought a private aircraft, a deluxe suite and bendable straws at the lectern when she delivers a speech at a California university, a media report said.
State authorities have begin a probe into California State Universitys finances after …. Original article  : Palin’s lecture demands – private jet, suite, bendable straws.

Parliament adjourned over demands for debate on Dantewada

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till 12 noon amid noisy scenes by National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and other opposition parties demanding the suspension of question hour for a debate on Dantewada massacre.
In the Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders M.M. Joshi and Rajnath Singh raised … Original source on Gaea Times at : Parliament adjourned over demands for debate on Dantewada.

Pakistan minister to represent country at Sania-Shoaib reception

HYDERABAD – Pakistan Population Welfare Minister Firdous Ashiq Awan, cricketer Sohail Tanvir and singer Waris Baig have arrived here to attend the wedding reception of Shoaib Malik and Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza Thursday evening.

Awan, who landed in Hyderabad Wednesday night, hoped that the marriage of the two celebrities would help strengthen the ties between … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan minister to represent country at Sania-Shoaib reception.

Pak Punjab police claims resolving Benazir assassination plot

LAHORE – While the whole world and especially Pakistan eagerly awaits the UN enquiry commission’s report on former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, which is expected to be released today (Thursday), the Punjab police has dropped a bombshell by claiming that it has already traced, arrested and put on trial the former premier’s assassins.

The provincial … Original article on : Pak Punjab police claims resolving Benazir assassination plot.

Pak’s participation in nuclear security summit legitimises its nuke programme:Gilani

WASHINGTON – Describing his Washington visit as ’successful’, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that Islamabad’s participation in the just concluded two-day nuclear security summit has ‘boosted the legitimacy of the country’s nuclear programme.’
Interacting with media persons after the concluding session of the important summit, Gilani said the international community’s concerns … Original article on : Pak’s participation in nuclear security summit legitimises its nuke programme:Gilani.

Government likely to face heat on Dantewada, Tharoor, prices

NEW DELHI – As parliament resumes its budget session Thursday, a united opposition is all set to corner the government on the April 6 Dantewada massacre, price rise and Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor’s involvement in an ugly IPL row.
Leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Government likely to face heat on Dantewada, Tharoor, prices.

Thais troops clear protest area vacated after clashes, but Red Shirts hunker down at 2nd camp

Thai troops clear protest area vacated after clash

BANGKOK – Thai troops cleared the gutted remains of armored carriers Thursday after anti-government protesters vacated the site of last week’s bloody clashes and shifted to an upscale shopping district to intensify their campaign to oust the prime minister.
The Red Shirt protesters vow their new encampment in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Thais troops clear protest area vacated after clashes, but Red Shirts hunker down at 2nd camp.

Dr. Manmohan Singh accorded rousing welcome in Brazil

BRASILIA – In the second leg of his tour to the United States and Brasil, Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister of India, was accorded a rousing welcome at the Brasilia Airbase on Wednesday.
Dr. Singh is here to attend for the fourth India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) and the Brazil, Russia, India, China (BRIC) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dr. Manmohan Singh accorded rousing welcome in Brazil.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Health care win in hand, Pelosi braces for GOP pushback in midterm elections

CAPITAL CULTURE: Pelosi braces for midterms
WASHINGTON – With the health care reform bill approved at last, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had a quip for fellow lawmakers she’d relied on to help make it happen: “So what are we going to do now?”
It was an apt query for everyone in the room, … Read : CAPITAL CULTURE: Health care win in hand, Pelosi braces for GOP pushback in midterm elections.

Thais troops clear area vacated by Red Shirts but political crisis shows no sign of ending

Thai troops clear area vacated by Red Shirts

BANGKOK – Thai troops cleared the gutted remains of their armored carriers from the site of last week’s bloody clashes after anti-government protesters vacated the area and shifted to an upscale shopping district to intensify their campaign to oust the prime minister.
Thailand’s long-running political crisis showed no signs …. Original source  : Thais troops clear area vacated by Red Shirts but political crisis shows no sign of ending.

North Koreans celebrate late President Kim Il Sung’s birthday with fireworks

Fireworks mark founder Kim’s birthday in NKorea

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korean leader Kim Jong Il marked the “Day of the Sun” – the anniversary of his late father’s birth 98 years ago Thursday – by promoting 100 loyal generals while Pyongyang residents watched a “kaleidoscope” of fireworks, state media said.
Fireworks and a laser display …. Source  : North Koreans celebrate late President Kim Il Sung’s birthday with fireworks.

Four South African police advisors serving with UN-AU force in Darfur are missing

Four police advisors missing in Darfur
UNITED NATIONS – Four South African police advisors serving with the international peacekeeping force in Darfur are missing, the force said late Wednesday.

The unarmed advisors – two women and two men – have not been heard from since 4 p.m. local time on Sunday shortly after they left their team … Read more »».

1st census signed by Thomas Jefferson in 1791 sold at auction for $122,500

1st census signed by Jefferson fetches $122,500

NEW YORK – A first edition of the first U.S. census signed by Thomas Jefferson in 1791 has been sold at auction in New York City for over $122,000.
A Sotheby’s spokesperson says the 56-page document, which breaks down the nation’s population by free people and slaves, was purchased by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 1st census signed by Thomas Jefferson in 1791 sold at auction for $122,500.

Flying ash changes PM’s flight plan

BRASILIA – Flying ash from Iceland’s erupting volcano has forced a last-minute change in Prime Minister Manmohan Singh??s journey back home. Now he will return via Johannesburg in South Africa.
Manmohan Singh, who wrapped up his two-day visit to Brazil after attending two back-to-back India-Brazil-Russia (IBSA) summit and Brazil-Russia-India-China (BRIC) summit, leaves for India …. Original source  : Flying ash changes PM’s flight plan.

Aide to Pakistan’s ex-president Musharraf calls UN report on Bhutto killing a ‘pack of lies’

Musharraf aide calls UN’s Bhutto report ‘lies’
ISLAMABAD – A U.N. report on the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto is a “pack of lies” that wrongly implicates ex-President Pervez Musharraf and Pakistan’s security forces for not stopping her killing, an aide to Musharraf said Friday.
Bhutto was killed in a Dec. 27, 2007, … Read more »»».

A day in the life of summit-hopping Manmohan (Brasilia Diary)

BRASILIA – Two summits and three bilateral meetings, all packed in one day. Trust Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to manage a killing schedule of back-to-back meetings and still look fresh and energetic!
The prime minister started his day one in Brasilia with a meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao and followed it with … Read more »».

Turkish Cypriot leadership election casts doubt over talks to reunify divided island

Turkish Cypriot poll clouds peace talk prospects

NICOSIA, Cyprus – Turkish Cypriots are to vote Sunday in an election cast as a choice between a dovish incumbent striving for reunification with rival Greek Cypriots and a hardline challenger seeking to bolster a breakaway state.
Opinion polls show most of the tiny, breakaway state’s 164,000 voters will choose …. Original article  : Turkish Cypriot leadership election casts doubt over talks to reunify divided island.

Musharraf govt.’deliberately’ failed to provide security cover to Benazir: UN report

NEW YORK – The much awaited United Nations (UN) enquiry commission’s report over former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination has blamed the then Musharraf government of ‘deliberately’ failing to probe the December 2007 gun and bomb attack, saying the tragedy could have been averted if adequate security arrangements would have been made.

“The Musharraf government …. Source article  : Musharraf govt.’deliberately’ failed to provide security cover to Benazir: UN report.

IBSA has entered period of consolidation, must focus on new intiatives: PM

BRASILIA – Stating that the India, Brazil, South Africa (IBSA) grouping has entered a phase of consolidation, visiting Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said on Wednesday that leaders and governments of these three countries should focus implementing various initiatives taken up under its framework.
Delivering an opening statement at the start of … Read more »».

India, Brazil laud progress on Doha Round of Trade Negotiations

BRASILIA – Brazil’s President Luiz In??cio Lula da Silva and visiting Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Wednesday agreed that significant progress has already been achieved in the Doha Round of Trade Negotiations.
A joint statement issued after a bilateral meeting between the two held on the sidelines of the IBSA and BRIC …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Zardari’s key powers slashed as Pak Senate approves constitutional amendment bill

ISLAMABAD – The historic 18th Constitutional Amendment bill, which would transfer President Asif Ali Zardari’s key powers to the Prime Minister’s residence, has been passed by the Pakistan Senate by an overwhelming two-third majority.
Describing the passage of the bill as a ‘landmark’ event in the … Read : Zardari’s key powers slashed as Pak Senate approves constitutional amendment bill.

E-mail shows ex-CIA director agreed with decision to destroy tapes of suspect’s waterboarding

Destruction of videotapes documented in CIA e-mail

WASHINGTON – Internal CIA e-mails show the former agency head, Porter Goss, agreed with a top aide’s 2005 decision to destroy videotapes of the harsh interrogation of a terror suspect, a controversial action that remains the focus of an FBI investigation.
The documents show that, despite Goss’ apparent agreement, CIA … Read more : E-mail shows ex-CIA director agreed with decision to destroy tapes of suspect’s waterboarding.

BJP insists on Tharoor’s resignation

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Friday threatened not to let parliament function till Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor resigned over the IPL controversy.

“Why should we listen to his statement? He should quit. We will not allow the house to function till he quits,” said BJP deputy leader Gopinath Munde. …. Read the original article  : BJP insists on Tharoor’s resignation.

Liberal law professor Goodwin Liu ready for GOP grilling in Judiciary Committee

Liberal court pick ready for Senate GOP grilling
WASHINGTON – California law professor Goodwin Liu will be a test case of President Barack Obama’s ability to win confirmation for a liberal appeals court nominee.
Round One is Friday, when Liu – nominated for a San Francisco-based appeals court – appears before … Original source on Gaea Times at : Liberal law professor Goodwin Liu ready for GOP grilling in Judiciary Committee.

BRIC can recast world order: Manmohan

BRASILIA – The BRIC grouping of the world??s top emerging economies, accounting for 20 percent of global GDP, have a key role in recasting the global architecture of governance and in setting the pace of global economic recovery, said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Manmohan Singh made a vigorous case for a “multipolar, equitable, …. Original article  : BRIC can recast world order: Manmohan.

US, Sri Lankan militaries in joint exercise

COLOMBO – The Sri Lankan military and the US Navy have conducted a joint humanitarian exercise in Trincomalee in the country’s east, the US embassy said Friday.

The event included civilians from the Disaster Management Centre and the ministry of healthcare and nutrition. The focus of the exercise was humanitarian assistance, an embassy statement … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US, Sri Lankan militaries in joint exercise.

President Obama orders hospitals to extend medical rights to same-sex couples

Obama extends health care rights to gay partners
WASHINGTON – In a move hailed as a step toward fairness for same-sex couples, President Barack Obama is ordering that nearly all hospitals allow patients to say who has visitation rights and who can help make medical decisions, including gay and lesbian partners.
The White House on [..] Read the original article: here.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till Monday

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till Monday with angry opposition MPs, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), creating a furore demanding a discussion on the IPL row involving Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor.
The upper house of parliament will reconvene at 11 a.m. Monday. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rajya Sabha adjourned till Monday.

India, Brazil back each other for UN seat

BRASILIA – India and Brazil, Latin America??s largest economy, have backed each other for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council (UNSC) and agreed to expand their cooperation in areas ranging from technology, civilian nuclear energy to counter-terrorism.
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held wide-raging talks with Brazilian President Lula da … Original source on Gaea Times at : India, Brazil back each other for UN seat.

Tharoor lays statement amid din, Lok Sabha adjourned

NEW DELHI – Unable to read out his statement on alleged links with the Kochi IPL franchise, Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor Friday laid it on the table of the house. The uproar saw a second adjournment of the house till 2 p.m.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tharoor lays statement amid din, Lok Sabha adjourned.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Tharoor IPL row

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Friday over the opposition demanding a debate on the IPL row involving Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor.

As soon as the house assembled at 11 a.m., the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members S.S. Ahluwalia and Ravi Shankar Prasad were on their feet demanding …. Read the original article  : Rajya Sabha adjourned over Tharoor IPL row.

Cuban academic says corruption, not political protest, is island’s big threat

Cuban academic says corruption island’s big threat

HAVANA – Corruption at the highest levels of government – not the meddling of a small band of dissidents – is the greatest threat to Cuba’s communist system, a leading academic said in a highly unusual opinion posted Thursday on a state Web site.
The article by Esteban Morales – … Read more »»».

After nuclear summit, top US diplomat to visit India

WASHINGTON – Close on the heels of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit here, the US’ second top ranking diplomat will visit India “to discuss a range of bilateral and multilateral issues that advance our bilateral relationship”.
Deputy Secretary James B. Steinberg is travelling to India and Bangladesh April 20-22. This is his first …. Original source  : After nuclear summit, top US diplomat to visit India.

Tharoor’s fate hinges on PM; party not in mood to defend him

NEW DELHI – The Congress feels that if a united opposition forces Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to defend Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor in parliament over the Indian Premier League (IPL) row, it would be a further embarrassment for the party and the government, party sources said Saturday.
“The party is …. Read the original article  : Tharoor’s fate hinges on PM; party not in mood to defend him.

PML-N calls for murder proceedings against Musharraf over Bhutto’s assassination

ISLAMABAD – Following the UN enquiry commission’s report over former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, which held the then Musharraf regime responsible for the killing, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has once again raised the demand for the former general’s trial.

PML-N spokesperson Parvaiz Rashid said the UN report has made … Read : PML-N calls for murder proceedings against Musharraf over Bhutto’s assassination.

Mayawati expels Mukhtar Ansari from BSP

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati has expelled criminal-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari and his brother Afzal Ansari from the party.

A press release issued on Friday by the party said that the decision to expel …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Another Indian joins Malaysian by-poll fray

KUALA LUMPUR – V.S. Chandran, a businessman of Indian origin, Saturday joined the fray for a Malaysian parliamentary by-poll, raising fears of division of the

the ethnic Indian vote.
Deputy Prime Minister Muhiyddin Yassin said Chandran’s entry was no problem for the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) and the ruling alliance Barisan Nasional (BN) that aims … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Another Indian joins Malaysian by-poll fray.

Gordon Brown’s neighbour has had enough of him

LONDON – Gordon Brown has been upstaged by a neighbour who has erected a large Tory sign – “Vote for change” – next to the prime minister’s home in a village.

Sixtyfive-year-old Ian Watt began the campaign just yards from Brown’s doorstep in North Queensferry, Fife, The Sun reported Saturday.
“I’m fed up with a Labour …. Read the original article  : Gordon Brown’s neighbour has had enough of him.

India for holistic approach to post-conflict peace-building

UNITED NATIONS – Advocating a holistic approach to “post-conflict peace-building”, India has suggested consultations with major troop and police contributing countries in formulating and revising mandates of the UN missions.

“Security is a key pillar for peace-building,” Hardeep Singh Puri, Permanent Representative of India, said addressing the UN Security Council Friday. “It is equally important to … Read more : India for holistic approach to post-conflict peace-building.

Former congressman Eric Massa wrote $40,00 check to top aide shortly before his resignaton

Massa gave $40,000 to aide before resigning

WASHINGTON – Former New York Rep. Eric Massa wrote a $40,000 check to his chief of staff shortly before resigning his seat last month amid sexual harassment allegations. The aide is among those pursuing complaints against the Democrat.
Federal campaign finance records describe the March 4 check to Joe Racalto … Read more : Former congressman Eric Massa wrote $40,00 check to top aide shortly before his resignaton.

India opposes sanctions against Iran at BRIC, IBSA summits

BRASILIA – India opposed a drive by western countries to impose new sanctions against Iran at the recently concluded IBSA and BRIC summits here.

There was a free exchange of views on Iran, where the Indian prime minister opposed sanctions and advocated dialogue to resolve the Iranian issue, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma told journalists …. Source  : India opposes sanctions against Iran at BRIC, IBSA summits.

Locked-out Rio Tinto Borax miners rally at British consulate in Los Angeles

Locked-out miners rally at British consulate in LA

LOS ANGELES – Mojave Desert borate miners have rallied with hundreds of supporters outside the British Consulate in Los Angeles to protest a lockout by the mine’s Anglo-Australian owner.
Workers from the Rio Tinto Borax mine in tiny Boron were joined by other organized labor groups at the demonstration … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Locked-out Rio Tinto Borax miners rally at British consulate in Los Angeles.

Daryl Gates, polarizing police chief during 1992 Los Angeles riot, dies at 83

Gates, LA’s police chief during 1992 riot, dies

LOS ANGELES – Daryl F. Gates, the blunt former Los Angeles police chief who waged war on violent gangs and skirmished with city leaders until his handling of the Rodney King police beating and ensuing riots forced him to retire, died Friday of cancer. He was 83.
Gates died …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Daryl Gates, polarizing police chief during 1992 Los Angeles riot, dies at 83.

Arizona governor signs bill allowing concealed weapons without permit; joins Alaska, Vermont

Arizona to allow concealed weapons without permit

PHOENIX – Favoring the constitutional right to bear arms over others’ concerns about gun safety, Gov. Jan Brewer on Friday signed into law a bill making Arizona the third state allowing people to carry a concealed weapon without requiring a permit.
The measure takes effect 90 days after the current … Read : Arizona governor signs bill allowing concealed weapons without permit; joins Alaska, Vermont.

Arizona governor signs bill allowing concealed weapons without permit

Arizona to allow concealed guns without permit

PHOENIX – Gov. Jan Brewer has signed into law a bill making Arizona the third state to not require a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
Brewer’s office says she signed the bill Friday. It takes effect 90 days after the current legislative session ends, probably putting the effective date …. Original article  : Arizona governor signs bill allowing concealed weapons without permit.

Former Rep. Massa’s chief of staff alleges he was sexually harassed by lawmaker

Ex-congressman’s top aide files harass complaint

WASHINGTON – Former Democratic Rep. Eric Massa’s chief of staff has filed a sexual harassment complaint against the 50-year-old New York lawmaker.
Joe Racalto’s attorney Camilla McKinney said Friday the complaint was filed March 23. Such complaints are handled by the Office of Compliance, an independent agency. Citing confidentiality, she declined … Read more : Former Rep. Massa’s chief of staff alleges he was sexually harassed by lawmaker.

Islamic charity demands $612K from feds after judge rules US eavesdropped without warrant

Islamic charity in Calif. wiretap case wants $612K

SAN FRANCISCO – Lawyers for a now-defunct Islamic charity want more than $600,000 in damages from the federal government after a judge ruled that officials illegally wiretapped the charity’s phone calls.
Last month, U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker found that the Terrorist Surveillance Program authorized by President George …. Source  : Islamic charity demands $612K from feds after judge rules US eavesdropped without warrant.

Remarks by the President at a Meeting with the President’s Economic Recovery Advisory Board

Roosevelt Room
1:38 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, everybody.  All right — don’t break anything.  (Laughter.)  You guys all set?  All right.

Well, thank you all for coming.  We have a few topics to discuss today and I’m eager to hear from all of you about how the economy looks from your perspective and your forecast for the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the President at a Meeting with the President’s Economic Recovery Advisory Board.

President Obama Signs Pennsylvania Disaster Declaration

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and ordered Federal aid to supplement the Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe winter storms and snowstorms during the period of February 5-11, 2010.

Federal funding is available to the Commonwealth and eligible local governments and certain private … Original source on Gaea Times at : President Obama Signs Pennsylvania Disaster Declaration.

Presidential Proclamation???National Park Week

NATIONAL PARK WEEK, 2010
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION
As a Nation, we have a responsibility to protect America’s natural resources and noteworthy landmarks. During National Park Week, we celebrate the diversity, beauty, and history found in our National Park System.
For nearly 100 years, the American people have entrusted the National Park … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–National Park Week.

Amid heated rhetoric, Clinton says words matter, alludes to Oklahoma City bombing

Bill Clinton: Words really matter
WASHINGTON – Former President Bill Clinton warned of a slippery slope from angry anti-government rhetoric to violence like the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, saying “the words we use really do matter.”
The two-term Democratic president insisted he wasn’t trying to restrict free speech, but in remarks Friday he said incendiary …. Original source  : Amid heated rhetoric, Clinton says words matter, alludes to Oklahoma City bombing.

Judge: Ohio inmate didn’t offer medical evidence that execution poses anesthesia allergy risk

Judge: No allergy risk proven for Ohio execution

COLUMBUS, Ohio – An inmate scheduled to die next week for raping and strangling a 16-year-old girl has failed to present enough evidence of an allergy to anesthesia that could affect the execution, a federal judge ruled Friday.
Condemned killer Darryl Durr waited too long to raise the issue …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge: Ohio inmate didn’t offer medical evidence that execution poses anesthesia allergy risk.

ACLU lawyer asks NY appeals court to restore overseas wiretap lawsuit; government says no need

NYC appeals court hears challenge to wiretap law

NEW YORK – A civil rights lawyer asked a federal appeals court Friday to restore a lawsuit challenging a law that lets the United States eavesdrop on overseas conversations. A government lawyer disagreed, saying a lower court got it right.
The verbal tug-of-war proceeded before a three-judge panel of … Read : ACLU lawyer asks NY appeals court to restore overseas wiretap lawsuit; government says no need.

After ‘Modi best friend’ comment, Kamat goes soft on Parrikar

PANAJI – Nearly a week after calling Narendra Modi his “best friend” and incurring the ire of the Congress high command, Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat Sunday gave a clean chit to Leader of Opposition and senior BJP leader Manohar Parrikar in a graft case.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is probing accusations of corruption … Original article on : After ‘Modi best friend’ comment, Kamat goes soft on Parrikar.

MIM opposes union territory status to Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Ending its silence over the Telangana issue, the Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) Sunday opposed the demand for union territory status to Hyderabad and suggested that if the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh becomes inevitable, a Greater Telangana state comprising Telangana and Rayalseema regions be formed.
MIM, a key political force in Hyderabad, said it …. Read the original article  : MIM opposes union territory status to Hyderabad.

Indian origin woman leader in Trinidad poll fray

Port-of-SPAIN – A million people will vote in the general election in Trinidad and Tobago May 24 that will decide the fate of Prime Minister Patrick Manning’s ruling party and opposition alliances, one of which is led by Indian-origin woman politician Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
Constitutionally, elections are due by October 2012. This is the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indian origin woman leader in Trinidad poll fray.

Lapang admits losing majority support

SHILLONG – Meghalaya Chief Minister D.D. Lapang Sunday admitted he had lost the support of the majority of Congress legislators in the state but said the leadership issue was still open.
Lapang’s comments came a night after Mukul M. Sangma, his trusted aide, was unanimously chosen the chief minister’s successor by 21 of 28 …. Source  : Lapang admits losing majority support.

Tharoor calls on PM

NEW DELHI – Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor called on the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh this morning ahead of the Congress Core Committee Meeting today.
Tharoor reached Dr Singh’s official residence to reportedly put across his point of view before a final call …. Source  : Tharoor calls on PM.

Why is no Kerala bigwig coming out in support of Tharoor?

KOCHI/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – There has been little support forthcoming for Shashi Tharoor from Kerala, the state he belongs to, over the IPL controversy despite the popular excitement after he “helped” bring an IPL franchise to Kochi.

In fact, the entire Kerala unit of the Congress, which congratulated Tharoor for bringing an Indian Premier League team to Kochi, …. Source article  : Why is no Kerala bigwig coming out in support of Tharoor?.

Meghalaya chief minister admits losing majority support

SHILLONG – Meghalaya Chief Minister D.D. Lapang Sunday admitted losing majority support in the Congress Legislature Party (CLP), but asserted that the leadership issue in the state was still open.

Lapang’s statement came a night after Mukul M. Sangma, the chief minister’s trusted aide, was unanimously chosen as his successor by 21 of the 28 Congress …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Meghalaya chief minister admits losing majority support.

Will Antony come to Tharoor’s aid? (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – Many in the Congress party are wondering if Defence Minister and senior Congress leader A.K. Antony will once more bat for his beleaguered colleague from Kerala, Shashi Tharoor.
Antony may have a major say in any decision on Tharoor’s continuation as minister of state for external affairs in the wake of …. Source article  : Will Antony come to Tharoor’s aid? (Capital Buzz).

PM, Congress leaders likely to take decision on Tharoor today

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, and other senior Congress party leaders are expected to take a final call on the future of Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor today.
Dr Singh is likely to meet with the Congress top brass at around 6: 30 p.m. at his official …. Source article  : PM, Congress leaders likely to take decision on Tharoor today.

PPP to seek ’stern’ action against Musharraf following UN Benazir assassination report

ISLAMABAD – Backing the UN enquiry commission’s report over former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has held former President General Pervez Musharraf responsible for the tragic incident.
A meeting of PPP’s core committee, which was chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari and was attended by Prime Minister Yousuf Raza … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PPP to seek ’stern’ action against Musharraf following UN Benazir assassination report.

Lib Dem leader Clegg almost as popular as Churchill

LONDON – Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg, who won the first of three election-related debates aired on British television for the first time earlier this week, is being regarded as the most popular party leader since former Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

According to a new Sunday Times, Clegg has surged to a higher approval rating than … Read more »»».

Nepal Maoists to start fresh anti-government protests

KATHMANDU – On April 22, celebrated by Communists worldwide as the birthday of Soviet leader Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, Nepal’s Maoist party has announced fresh protests against the coalition government in an intensified struggle to dislodge it before the new constitution comes into effect May 28.

While nationwide rallies and sit-ins will be held Thursday, the former …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal Maoists to start fresh anti-government protests.

UN report: ‘Unfazed’ Musharraf says he has got one ‘final’ bullet in pistol for defence

ABU DHABI – Unfazed by the UN commission’s inquiry report over former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, which directly indicts him and his regime for the crime, former Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf has said he has one final bullet in his pistol which he will use for his … Read : UN report: ‘Unfazed’ Musharraf says he has got one ‘final’ bullet in pistol for defence.

Returning to power very soon: Lalu

Former India’s railway minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal president Lalu Prasad has said his party is returning to power in Bihar very soon.

The move assumes much significance since this is for the first time in the past for years that Lalu has made such announcement with much confidence at a public function.
“No one should have … Read more : Returning to power very soon: Lalu.

Report: Gates January memo said US lacks long-range policy for Iran’s nuclear program

Report: Gates sent White House memo on Iran policy
WASHINGTON – A memo from Defense Secretary Robert Gates to the White House warned that the United States lacks a nimble long-term plan for dealing with Iran’s nuclear program, according to a published report.
Gates wrote the three-page memo … Original source on Gaea Times at : Report: Gates January memo said US lacks long-range policy for Iran’s nuclear program.

At NYC convention, Obama’s former professor says Al Sharpton is president’s link to streets

Ex-mentor: Sharpton is Obama’s link to the streets
NEW YORK – The Rev. Al Sharpton is a “lightning rod” for President Barack Obama on inner city streets, Obama’s former Harvard mentor and friend said Saturday at a forum in Harlem.
But Sharpton, who led the event, told The Associated Press … Read more : At NYC convention, Obama’s former professor says Al Sharpton is president’s link to streets.

Turkish Cypriot election could halt peace talks and jeoprodize Turkey’s EU membership bid

Turkish Cypriot election could halt peace talks

NICOSIA, Cyprus – Turkish Cypriots vote Sunday in a leadership election whose outcome could deadlock Cyprus peace talks and sink Turkey’s bid for European Union membership.
The election pits a dovish incumbent striving for reunification with rival Greek Cypriots against a hardline challenger seeking to bolster a breakaway state.
Polls open … Read : Turkish Cypriot election could halt peace talks and jeoprodize Turkey’s EU membership bid.

Clinton says angry rhetoric leads to increased threats against president, other politicians

Clinton: Criticize, don’t demonize officeholders
WASHINGTON – Former President Bill Clinton says angry anti-government rhetoric has led to a worrisome increase in threats against the president and other elected officials.
Clinton says people should be careful that the words they use to criticize officials don’t demonize them.
The two-term Democratic president tells ABC News’ “This Week” [..] Read the original article: here.

Counter-demonstrators shout down Neo-Nazi rally against illegal immigration in Los Angeles

Neo-Nazis, counter-demonstrators square off in LA

LOS ANGELES – A neo-Nazi white supremacist group rallied against illegal immigration in downtown Los Angeles Saturday as hundreds of counter-protestors gathered to shout them down in a tense stand off that included thrown rocks and police in riot gear.
Police officers stood between the white supremacists and counter-demonstrators on the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Counter-demonstrators shout down Neo-Nazi rally against illegal immigration in Los Angeles.

Counter-demonstrators gather at Los Angeles City Hall to protest march by white supremacists

Counter-demonstrators protest white supremacists

LOS ANGELES – Hundreds of counter-protestors carrying anti-Nazi signs have gathered in downtown Los Angeles where a white supremacist group is rallying.
Police officers with riot helmets strapped to their belts stood between the crowd and the steps of City Hall, where several dozen members of the National Socialist Movement gathered Saturday.
There was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Counter-demonstrators gather at Los Angeles City Hall to protest march by white supremacists.

Parliamentary re-vote scheduled in two Sri Lankan districts

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka is to rehold parliamentary elections Tuesday in two districts where irregularities marred polling on April 8 during the nationwide voting, officials said Monday.

The failure to complete the election has delayed the final results of the parliamentary elections though the ruling United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) won a convincing majority in the … Read more »»».

Sangma to be elected next Meghalaya chief minister

SHILLONG – Congress legislators are expected to meet here later Monday to elect Mukul M. Sangma as their new leader in place of outgoing Meghalaya Chief Minister D.D. Lapang, party leaders said.

“I am coming to Shillong today and have convened a CLP (Congress legislature party) meeting to elect a new leader,” Lapang told IANS … Read more : Sangma to be elected next Meghalaya chief minister.

‘PM was emotional when Tharoor offered to quit’

NEW DELHI – When Shashi Tharoor went to meet him and offered to quit Sunday afternoon, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh appeared emotional and told him he believed he was clean, but he had no choice in the face of an unrelenting opposition that was determined to embarrass the government and hold up important …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tharoor run out…but gathers fans along the way

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – He came, conquered the hearts of Keralites a year back only to stumble and fall due to his own indiscretions. Shashi Tharoor was the buzz of the town Monday, a day after he resigned as minister of state for external affairs, with some in this constituency upset and others confident he would bounce …. Original source  : Tharoor run out…but gathers fans along the way.

Curtains down on Tharoor controversy: Congress, BJP

NEW DELHI – The Shashi Tharoor controversy is a closed chapter, the Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said Monday, a day after he resigned as minister of state for external affairs over the Indian Premier League (IPL) row.
“The curtains are down on the Tharoor issue after he resigned yesterday (Sunday) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Curtains down on Tharoor controversy: Congress, BJP.

Support Shashi Tharoor? Well, India Won’t!

NEW DELHI, India, (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems that there is no end to the troubles that the Congress is facing with its junior External Affairs Minister Shashi Tharoor. What with the IPL drama still going on, Shashi Tharoor has now been blamed of not being able to read the pulse of the Indian polity. While the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

I’m not biracial: Some African-Americans with white parent decline to check ‘white’ census box

Biracial or not? Census is a test for some
Experts anticipate an increase in the number of multiracial Americans in the 2010 census, but many people with one black parent and one white parent are choosing to only call themselves “black.”
One of those people is Laura Martin of Las Vegas. She says …. Original article  : I’m not biracial: Some African-Americans with white parent decline to check ‘white’ census box.

Israeli defense minister says world won’t put up with decades more of Palestinian occupation

Israeli defense minister says occupation must end
JERUSALEM – Israel must recognize that the world will not put up with decades more of Israeli rule over the Palestinian people, the country’s defense minister said in unusually frank remarks Monday.
Ehud Barak’s comments, on the occasion of Israel’s Memorial Day, come against the backdrop of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Israeli defense minister says world won’t put up with decades more of Palestinian occupation.

Poll: Americans’ confidence in the federal government at a 50-year low, 80 percent are wary

Poll: 4 out of 5 Americans don’t trust Washington

WASHINGTON – A new survey finds that public confidence in government is at one of the lowest points in a half century.
The poll from the Pew Research Center says that nearly 8 in 10 Americans say they don’t trust the federal government and have little faith it …. Source  : Poll: Americans’ confidence in the federal government at a 50-year low, 80 percent are wary.

Where is Shashi Tharoor?

NEW DELHI – Shashi Tharoor, the former minister of state for external affairs who quit over the Indian Premier League (IPL) row, was conspicuous by his absence in parliament Monday.
As parliament began at 11 a.m., mediapersons waiting for the former minister, who stepped down late Sunday, were disappointed when the MP from Thiruvananthapuram … Original article on : Where is Shashi Tharoor?.

JKLF chairman Yasin Malik detained

SRINAGAR – Muhammad Yasin Malik, chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), was detained by the police while he was on his way to Kupwara in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district Monday, police said.
“Yasin Malik was detained at Mirgund (Pattan) along with some of his associates today (Monday),” a police officer said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : JKLF chairman Yasin Malik detained.

UNHCR expresses concern as Australia expands detention centers to house asylum-seekers

UNHCR concern as Australia detains asylum-seekers

ADELAIDE, Australia – The U.N. refugee agency expressed concern Monday that Australia is using holding newly arrived asylum-seekers in detention centers.
The government suspended refugee applications from Afghans and Sri Lankans on April 9, saying the situations in those countries had improved.
The new policy says the suspensions will be reassessed in …. Read the original article  : UNHCR expresses concern as Australia expands detention centers to house asylum-seekers.

Wrong policies of government responsible for price rise: BJP

MUMBAI – Bharatiya Janata Party President Nitin Gadkari has said that the wrong economic policies of Central Government is responsible for the price rise.

“The basic problem which our country is facing, it is price rise, inflation, unemployment and farmers’ suicides. And, basically the reason for all these problems, …. Original source  : Wrong policies of government responsible for price rise: BJP.

Congress issues whip to Lok Sabha MPs

NEW DELHI – In a bid to ensure that the Finance Bill is passed without any hitch, the Congress has issued a whip to all its MPs to be present for seven days of the Lok Sabha proceedings starting April 20.

According to sources, Congress’ chief whip Paban Singh Ghatowar issued a three-line whip Friday.
The …. Original article  : Congress issues whip to Lok Sabha MPs.

EU-Pakistan summit postponed

BRUSSELS – A summit between the European Union (EU) and Pakistan to be held here April 21 has been postponed due to air traffic problems, the EU Presidency has announced.

Air traffic in a number of European countries has been suspended because of volcanic ash from Iceland.
Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, who … Read this article on Gaea Times at : EU-Pakistan summit postponed.

Israel warns against Iran as it remembers fallen soldiers, victims of attacks

Israel remembers fallen soldiers, attack victims

JERUSALEM – State ceremonies across Israel will commemorate nearly 23,000 fallen soldiers and civilian victims of attacks.
President Shimon Peres has taken the occasion of Israel’s memorial day to warn the world not to underestimate the potential threat of Iran’s nuclear program.
Israel, like the West, doesn’t believe Tehran’s claims that its … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Israel warns against Iran as it remembers fallen soldiers, victims of attacks.

Carrie Underwood wins ACM Entertainer of the Year; Lady Antebellum top winner with 5 awards

Carrie Underwood wins ACM Entertainer of the Year

LAS VEGAS – Carrie Underwood made history at the Academy of Country Music Awards on Sunday night, becoming the first woman to win entertainer of the year twice.
Underwood won the show’s top honor last year. This year, she beat out Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney and the Zac Brown …. Source article  : Carrie Underwood wins ACM Entertainer of the Year; Lady Antebellum top winner with 5 awards.

Toyota to agree to full $16.4 million govt fine over sticking gas pedals

Toyota to agree to $16.4 million government fine

WASHINGTON – Toyota is expected to agree on Monday to pay a fine of more than $16 million for a four-month delay in telling the government about defective gas pedals on its vehicles, the largest civil penalty imposed on an automaker by the government, a Transportation Department official …. Read the original article  : here.

Armed Thai troops patrol Bangkok business district to block protesters from entering

Armed Thai troops patrol Bangkok business district

BANGKOK – Thai troops with assault rifles entered Bangkok’s business district Monday to deter a protest march and protect a key bank with razor wire barricades, while anti-government demonstrators stockpiled paving stones nearby in the tense capital.
A leader of the “Red Shirt” protesters, thousands of mostly rural demonstrators camped …. Source  : Armed Thai troops patrol Bangkok business district to block protesters from entering.

Gates says US is prepared to take range of actions in response to Iranian nuclear ambitions

Gates says US is prepared on Iran’s nuclear plan
WASHINGTON – Defense Secretary Robert Gates asserted Sunday that the U.S. is prepared to take a range of actions against the Iranian nuclear program and told friends and foes not to fall for any perception Iran can catch Washington off guard .
Gates said …. Read the original article  : here.

A look at Republicans seeking to return to Washington politics

A look at Republicans seeking a Washington return
A look at some of the former Republican lawmakers intent on returning to Congress:
TOM CAMPBELL: A 10-year congressman, Supreme Court law clerk and California financial director, he is seeking the Republican Senate nomination against one-time Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina and state Assemblyman Chuck DeVore. The winner …. Source  : A look at Republicans seeking to return to Washington politics.

Pak govt. committed to bring Benazir’s assassins to justice at any cost: Kaira

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Information and Broadcasting Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira has said the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) government is committed to bring the masterminds of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s murder to justice.

Interacting with media persons after inaugurating a new building of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak govt. committed to bring Benazir’s assassins to justice at any cost: Kaira.

Pak can play ‘pivotal’ role in war-torn Afghanistan: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pushing for playing a ‘greater’ role in Afghanistan, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that Islamabad can play a pivotal role in stabilising the war torn neighbouring country.

In an interview with French daily Le Figaro, Gilani stressed that a stable and peaceful Afghanistan was in Pakistan’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak can play ‘pivotal’ role in war-torn Afghanistan: Gilani.

Tharoor quotes Malayalam poet in his defence

NEW DELHI – Former minister Shashi Tharoor quoted lines from well-known Malayalam poet Vallathol Narayana Menon while making his defence in parliament Tuesday on the IPL Kochi franchise controversy.

Tharoor, who quit as minister Sunday, told the Lok Sabha that he had done nothing improper in “mentoring” the Kochi franchise. He quoted from the works …. Original article  : Tharoor quotes Malayalam poet in his defence.

Nepal hurtles towards chaos

KATHMANDU – With just 37 days left for Nepal to unveil a new constitution, the country has begun hurtling towards chaos with the three major parties still at daggers drawn and the key players admitting it would be impossible to execute the task.

Concern and fear began to mount Tuesday after Nilambar Acharya, chairman of the … Read more >>.

My conscience is clear, done nothing wrong: Tharoor

NEW DELHI – Shashi Tharoor, who quit his ministerial post over alleged links to the IPL Kochi franchise, said in the Lok Sabha Tuesday that his “conscience is clear” and that he had asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to have the charges against him thoroughly probed.
“My conscience is clear. I have …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : My conscience is clear, done nothing wrong: Tharoor.

My conscience is clear: Tharoor

NEW DELHI – Shashi Tharoor, who has resigned from his ministerial post amid an uproar over his alleged link to IPL’s Kochi bid, said his conscience was clear and he had done nothing “improper, unethical or illegal”.

“My conscience is clear. I have done nothing improper or unethical, least of all illegal,” Tharoor told Lok Sabha, …. Read the original article  : here.

Chandrababu Naidu Upbeat About Party

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The president of the Telugu Desam party, Chandrababu Naidu is confident about the position of his party. He recently addressed a batch of TRS workers and expressed his opinion that the Telengana statehood issue has both political and mass implication. He clarified in his speech that he has instructed his party …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chandrababu Naidu Upbeat About Party.

Communist rebels attack police patrol in Philippines, killing 4 and wounding 5

Communist rebels in Philippines kill 4 police

MANILA, Philippines – Communist rebels opened fire on a police patrol on a mountain road east of the Philippine capital Tuesday, killing four officers and wounding five in the latest clash in a decades-old insurgency.
About 20 New People’s Army rebels hid along the road in the township of Baras …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Communist rebels attack police patrol in Philippines, killing 4 and wounding 5.

Pak government contemplating action against Musharraf’s kin in Benazir murder case

ISLAMABAD – Following the UN commission’s enquiry report over former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, the Pakistan government is contemplating action against some of former President General Pervez Musharraf’s close relatives, who have been indicted in the report.

According to sources, the Presidency is in consultations with various …. Original article  : Pak government contemplating action against Musharraf’s kin in Benazir murder case.

PM called Kerala leaders before accepting Tharoor resignation

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh phoned Congress’ Kerala unit chief Ramesh Chennithala and senior leader Oommen Chandy before accepting Shashi Tharoor’s resignation as minister of state for external affairs, party sources here said.
“The prime minister had spoken to Chennithala and Chandy over the phone before accepting Tharoor’s resignation. He telephoned … Read more >>>.

Re-vote in two Sri Lanka parliamentary districts opens

COLOMBO – Voting began Tuesday in two districts of Sri Lanka where polls were cancelled due to irregularities during parliamentary elections held on April 8, officials said.

The re-vote is being held in the Central Nawalapitiya electorate and in the northeastern Trincomalee district.
In Nawalapitiya, a minister of the ruling party was allegedly involved in driving …. Source  : Re-vote in two Sri Lanka parliamentary districts opens.

Puff on this: AP-CNBC Poll finds most Americans don’t want legalized pot, support medical use

AP-CNBC Poll: Most in US against legalizing pot

LOS ANGELES – Most Americans still oppose legalizing marijuana but larger majorities believe pot has medical benefits and the government should allow its use for that purpose, according to an Associated Press-CNBC poll released Tuesday.
Respondents were skeptical that crime would spike if marijuana is decriminalized or that it … Read : Puff on this: AP-CNBC Poll finds most Americans don’t want legalized pot, support medical use.

Okla. Senate OKs 5 abortion bills, including 1 mandating invasive ultrasound in many cases

Okla. lawmakers approve restrictive abortion bills

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate has approved several bills that opponents say would make it more difficult or uncomfortable for women to get abortions.
One of the five bills the Republican-controlled Senate overwhelmingly approved Monday would require doctors to use a vaginal probe in cases where it would provide a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Okla. Senate OKs 5 abortion bills, including 1 mandating invasive ultrasound in many cases.

Obama interrupted at fundraiser for Boxer by opponents of ‘don’t ask don’t tell’ policy

Obama heckled by ‘don’t ask don’t tell’ opponents
LOS ANGELES – Opponents of the ‘don’t ask don’t tell’ policy on gays in the military interrupted President Barack Obama with heckling at a Los Angeles fundraiser for Sen. Barbara Boxer.
The protesters shouted to ask Obama what he is going to do about the policy, which … Read more : Obama interrupted at fundraiser for Boxer by opponents of ‘don’t ask don’t tell’ policy.

G20 labour ministers hold first meeting

WASHINGTON – Labour ministers of the Group of 20 (G20) bloc of major industrial and developing countries were holding their first meeting Tuesday to discuss ways to kickstart job growth.

The two-day summit will go ahead without key ministers from Germany, France and Britain, where air travel has been brought to a near standstill by volcanic … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : G20 labour ministers hold first meeting.

Major emitters meet to narrow climate differences after Copenhagen

WASHINGTON – Climate representatives of the world’s biggest polluters held their first meeting Monday since a disappointing Copenhagen summit failed to reach agreement on a new treaty.

The 17-nation Major Economies Forum gathered in Washington in hopes of narrowing the gap between wealthy and developing countries over tackling climate change, but sought to lower expectations for …. Read the original article  : Major emitters meet to narrow climate differences after Copenhagen.

State Department complains to Syria of illicit arms transfers to Hezbollah in Lebanon

US complains to Syria of arms sales to Hezbollah
WASHINGTON – The State Department summoned the senior Syrian diplomat in Washington on Monday to accuse his government of “provocative behavior” in supplying arms to the Iranian-aligned militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon.
A department statement announcing the complaint was imprecise about the alleged arms deals by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : State Department complains to Syria of illicit arms transfers to Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Arizona Sens. McCain, Kyl again call for National Guard on border with Mexico

Ariz. Sens. McCain, Kyl call for Guard on border
PHOENIX – After the shooting death of a rancher, Sens. Jon Kyl and John McCain once again called Monday for National Guard troops to be deployed along Arizona’s border with Mexico.
The request for 3,000 troops was part of a 10-point plan that also includes hiring … Original article on : Arizona Sens. McCain, Kyl again call for National Guard on border with Mexico.

Venezuela’s Chavez hosts Latin American allies for independence celebrations, summit

Chavez hosts Latin American allies for summit

CARACAS, Venezuela – President Hugo Chavez marked the 200th anniversary of Venezuela’s independence movement with celebrations and a gathering of his closest Latin American allies.
Chavez greeted Raul Castro of Cuba, Evo Morales of Bolivia and other leaders Monday as he presided over a parade that included troops, Amazonian Indians … Read more >>>.

Funeral to be held for civil rights leader Benjamin L. Hooks who died in Memphis at age 85

Benjamin L. Hooks to be laid to rest in Memphis

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – After years of fighting for social justice, civil rights leader Benjamin L. Hooks will be laid to rest.
Political leaders and Hooks’ peers in the civil rights movement from across the country are expected to attend his funeral in Memphis on Wednesday.
The 85-year-old former … Original article on : Funeral to be held for civil rights leader Benjamin L. Hooks who died in Memphis at age 85.

Kerala to reply on governor’s address controversy

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala government will soon reply to Governor R.S. Gavai’s letter on allegations by the opposition that his address to the assembly in February had not been approved by the cabinet, Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan said Wednesday.

Gavai had last week written to Chief Secretary Rudra Gangadharan seeking a clarification after a group …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BSP refuses to share its stand on finance

NEW DELHI – The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Wednesday refused to divulge its stand on the finance bill that will come up during the ongoing session of parliament.

“We will decide later,” Satish Chandra Mishra, BSP general secretary and a close aide of party chief and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati, told IANS when asked … Read more »».

Sri Lanka’s ruling party wins parliamentary elections

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s ruling alliance secured a landslide victory in the parliamentary elections, according to official final results announced Wednesday after a re-vote in two districts.

The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) led by President Mahinda Rajapaksa secured 4.8 million of the votes, or 60.3 percent. The United National Party (UNP) received 2.3 million or … Read more »».

Manmohan Singh for urgent action to root out left-wing extremism

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh on Tuesday underscored the need for urgent and considered action to root out the left-wing extremism from the country.
Inaugurating the Civil Service Day here, Dr Singh said:
“terrorism and left-wing …. Original source  : Manmohan Singh for urgent action to root out left-wing extremism.

Court-martial of Navy SEAL accused in prisoner-abuse case opens in Iraq

Court-martial of Navy SEAL opens in Iraq
BAGHDAD – Opening arguments are under way in the court-martial of a Navy SEAL accused in the abuse of an Iraqi prisoner suspected of masterminding the killings of four U.S. private security contractors in 2004.

Petty Officer 1st Class Julio Huertas appeared Wednesday in a courtroom at a U.S. base … Read more »».

British politician’s secret dossier found in cab

LONDON – A secret dossier on a TV debate strategy for Britain’s Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg, found in the back of a taxi, advises him to “speak more slowly” and use “shorter, simpler answers”.

The document shows that Clegg was coached to copy the style of Conservative Party leader David Cameron, The Sun reported Wednesday. … Original source on Gaea Times at : British politician’s secret dossier found in cab.

Obama has begun talks with potential Supreme Court nominees, confers with senators Wednesday

Obama now talking with possible high court picks
WASHINGTON – Pushing forward with one of his most consequential decisions, President Barack Obama has begun informal talks with potential nominees for the Supreme Court. And now he is reaching out to the senators who will control the confirmation fight ahead.
Obama was to meet Wednesday with …. Original article  : Obama has begun talks with potential Supreme Court nominees, confers with senators Wednesday.

Some District of Columbia residents willing to forgo voting rights to keep strict gun laws

Gun law dispute sinks voting rights bill for DC

WASHINGTON – For some residents of the nation’s capital, a bill to give them a voting member of Congress wasn’t worth the price: severely weakened gun laws.
“As much as I want the vote in the city, I think the gun ban is hugely important,” said Betsy Cutler, … Read : Some District of Columbia residents willing to forgo voting rights to keep strict gun laws.

Past 60, North Atlantic alliance gripped by angst over war, peace and purpose in the world

US and Europe rethink role of Cold War alliance
WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is heading to a meeting of NATO ministers in Estonia at a time when the 61-year-old organization is suffering from a kind of mid-life crisis.
Almost 20 years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the 28-member North …. Read the original article  : Past 60, North Atlantic alliance gripped by angst over war, peace and purpose in the world.

BJP Rally In Delhi Today

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The residents of New Delhi are keeping their fingers crossed as BJP has planned a massive rally in Central Delhi today. It is likely to bring the traffic to a standstill and cause severe inconvenience to the residents and office goers in particular. BJP plans to gather at least 300,000 … Read more : BJP Rally In Delhi Today.

Police disallow separatist seminar in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Police Wednesday sealed a hotel where Muslim separatist leaders were to attend a seminar that was also to be addressed by senior guerrilla commanders from Pakistan over a phone link.

Dozens of policemen descended on Taj Hotel to seal it ahead of Wednesday’s seminar on the role of Kashmiri separatist leaders.
Police detained human … Read more >>.

Tharoor tweets thanks at ‘time of trial’

NEW DELHI – “Thank you…”, tweeted Shashi Tharoor, who quit as minister of state for external affairs over alleged links to the Kochi IPL franchise, to all his supporters after his emotional speech in the Lok Sabha stating that his conscience was clear.

The Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, who was forced to resign Sunday …. Source  : Tharoor tweets thanks at ‘time of trial’.

Rajya Sabha adjourned after member’s death

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Wednesday following the death of its member Krishan Lal Valmiki of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
As soon as the house assembled, Chairman Hamid Ansari read out a condolence message in which he said: “The country has lost an able parliamentarian and dedicated social worker.”
The … Read more >>>.

BJP’s anti-price rise rally triggers traffic chaos

NEW DELHI – Traffic crawled across central Delhi Wednesday morning as thousands of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers gathered here for a massive rally against rising prices, the first show of strength for newly elected party president Nitin Gadkari.

BJP leaders claim that an estimated 300,000 people will gather at the Ramlila Maidan for the rally. …. Read the original article  : BJP’s anti-price rise rally triggers traffic chaos.

Sri Lanka’s ruling party increases gains after revote, falls short of two-thirds majority

Sri Lanka ruling party increases gains in revote

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s ruling party increased its parliamentary gains Wednesday after new voting in Sri Lanka’s elections, but fell short of the two-thirds majority it had sought to make constitutional changes.
Rajapaksa’s United People’s Freedom Alliance secured a total of 144 seats in the 225-member …. Read the original article  : Sri Lanka’s ruling party increases gains after revote, falls short of two-thirds majority.

JMM legislators live in fear of Maoist retaliation

RANCHI – Their party chief and Chief Minister Shibu Soren is sometimes accused of having a soft corner for Maoists, but several Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) legislators expect the rebels to show them no mercy, now that Operation Green Hunt is on in Jharkhand.

The JMM legislators who come from Maoist areas are scared of retaliation …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : JMM legislators live in fear of Maoist retaliation.

ATTN EDITOR

Ref File name : 21nat6
Head Line : 1. (For Wednesday) Tharoor: New age politician who forgot old world values (Comment)

Kill the story. Fresh story follows
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : ATTN EDITOR.

Tharoor: New age politician who forgot old world values (Comment)

The youngest doctorate from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, earning his PhD from the hallowed portals of Tufts University in the US at age 22, Shashi Tharoor is known to be an exceptional thinker. In his nearly three-decade-long stint at the United Nations, where he rose to be the under secretary general for … Read more : Tharoor: New age politician who forgot old world values (Comment).

PM to inaugurate Civil Service Day today

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will inaugurate the fifth Civil Service Day here today.
Dr. Singh, on this occasion, will also give away the ‘PM Award for Excellence in Public Administration’ for the year 2008-09.
Nine outstanding initiatives in three categories – individual, group and organization – have been selected …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Belgian vote on burqa ban in doubt as government risks collapse

BRUSSELS – A parliamentary vote that would have turned Belgium into the first European country to ban the wearing of the burqa and other types of Islamic veil risked being cancelled Thursday, as the country’s government was nearing collapse.

The lower house of parliament was expected to approve a law making it a crime to be …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Belgian vote on burqa ban in doubt as government risks collapse.

N-liability bill has nothing to do with India-US deal: government

NEW DELHI – The government Thursday refuted charges that the civil nuclear liability bill was being introduced in parliament under international pressure and said the legislation had been under consideration since 1998 and had nothing to do with the India-US nuclear deal signed in 2008.

The bill was in line with international best practices and would … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : N-liability bill has nothing to do with India-US deal: government.

Uproar in Lok Sabha over Alagiri’s absence

NEW DELHI – The opposition parties caused disruption in the Lok Sabha Thursday as Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister M.K. Alagiri failed to show up during question hour.
The uproar began when Speaker Meira Kumar invited Alagiri’s deputy Srikant Jena to answer a listed question by Kachchadia Naranbhai.
“The honourable minister is missing,” … Original source on Gaea Times at : Uproar in Lok Sabha over Alagiri’s absence.

Security alert as Nepal asks Maoists to stop military training

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s embattled government put security forces on alert Thursday and asked the opposition Maoist party to stop giving military training to its cadre nationwide ahead of a looming constitutional crisis.

Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, who has been fighting an insistent demand by the former guerrillas for his resignation to avert a crisis next … Original source on Gaea Times at : Security alert as Nepal asks Maoists to stop military training.

Anxiety-torn NATO to tackle Afghanistan, Bosnia, own future at meetings in Estonia

Troubled NATO attempts to solve thorny issues

TALLINN, Estonia – NATO foreign ministers are arriving in Estonia for talks aimed at reviving commitments to Afghanistan and at resolving thorny internal issues.
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who landed early Thursday, will spearhead the discussions on an American nuclear “umbrella” for Europe and the alliance’s core … Original article on : Anxiety-torn NATO to tackle Afghanistan, Bosnia, own future at meetings in Estonia.

Keeping up pressure for financial overhaul, Obama urging lawmakers to give him a bill quickly

Obama keeps up pressure for financial overhaul
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is heading to the place where the economic meltdown began to argue for stronger government oversight of the finance industry and urge Congress to finish a regulatory bill quickly.
In a speech Thursday at New York’s Cooper Union college, near Wall Street, Obama … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Keeping up pressure for financial overhaul, Obama urging lawmakers to give him a bill quickly.

BJP chief says sorry to Delhiites for traffic disruption

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Gadkari has apologised to Delhiites for the inconvenience caused to them during Wednesday’s protest against the price rise that led to traffic jams across the city.

In a statement released here, Gadkari said: “I personally … Read more »».

Tamil Nadu lawmakers for probe into Nalini having a phone in jail

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu lawmakers have demanded a thorough probe into the reported seizure of a mobile phone from the cell of Nalini Sriharan, accused in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

“She has violated the Jail Manual rules after she was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Aides: Israeli PM rejects Obama’s demand for total east Jerusalem construction halt

Israel to US: No building halt in east Jerusalem
JERUSALEM – Aides say Israel’s prime minister has officially rejected President Barack Obama’s demand that Israel suspend all construction in east Jerusalem.
They say Benjamin Netanyahu delivered his response to Obama over the weekend. The aides spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday because the contacts between …. Original source  : Aides: Israeli PM rejects Obama’s demand for total east Jerusalem construction halt.

Report: Iran begins war games in the Persian Gulf, strategic Strait of Hormuz

Iran begins war games in Gulf, Strait of Hormuz
TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guard on Thursday started large-scale war games in the Persian Gulf and the strategic Strait of Hormuz, state television reported.
Iran has been holding military maneuvers in the gulf and the Strait of Hormuz annually since 2006 to show off …. Read the original article  : Report: Iran begins war games in the Persian Gulf, strategic Strait of Hormuz.

No international pressure on nuclear liability bill: government

NEW DELHI – The government Thursday refuted charges that the civil nuclear liability bill was being introduced under pressure from the US and said the legislation had been under consideration since 1998 and had nothing to do with the India-US nuclear deal signed in 2008.

“I refute the charges of international pressure,” Minister of State in … Read more »»».

Malik, Awan accused of direct involvement in Bhutto’s murder

ISLAMABAD – Slain Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s chief protocol officer Aslam Chaudhry’s legal advisor, Asad Rajput, has blamed Interior Minister Rehman Malik and law and parliamentary affairs minister Babar Awan of being directly involved in the former premier’s assassination.

Talking to media persons …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malik, Awan accused of direct involvement in Bhutto’s murder.

Russia marks 140th anniversary of Lenin’s birth

Moscow, April 22 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russia Thursday marks the 140th anniversary of the birth of revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin, the first head of the Soviet state.

Lenin (Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov) was born in the provincial city of Simbirsk (now Ulyanovsk) April 22, 1870, to a family of a secondary-school teacher.
In 1887, soon after the …. Original article  : Russia marks 140th anniversary of Lenin’s birth.

Clinton in Estonia for NATO talks focusing on Afghanistan, nuclear policy, missile defense

Clinton in Estonia for NATO meetings
TALLINN, Estonia – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has arrived in the Baltic state of Estonia for a meeting of NATO ministers to discuss Afghanistan and other issues.

She arrived slightly later than scheduled after the Iceland volcano’s ash cloud shifted toward Estonia while she was en route from …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Clinton in Estonia for NATO talks focusing on Afghanistan, nuclear policy, missile defense.

‘Red Shirts’ will alter Thailand’s political landscape, but protesters’ true color yet unknown

Red Shirt protests change Thai political landscape

BANGKOK – An ex-Communist guerrilla, a one-time teen idol and a militant known as “Rambo” spearhead a surging peasant movement that claims to espouse democracy but pledges allegiance to a billionaire accused of gutting Thailand’s democratic institutions.
Something doesn’t seem to check out here.
Such strange bedfellows and mixed messages make …. Original source  : ‘Red Shirts’ will alter Thailand’s political landscape, but protesters’ true color yet unknown.

Mexican lawmakers approve creation of space agency

Mexico City, April 22 (IANS/EFE) The lower house of Mexico’s Congress has voted to approve the creation of the Mexican Space Agency, or AEXA, which will be in charge of developing the country’s space policy.

The agency will promote space research studies, the development of space technologies and the training of specialists.
The agency’s creation was … Read more : Mexican lawmakers approve creation of space agency.

Appeals court in NY blocks ruling that found Congress was wrong to stop ACORN funding

Court in NY gives government victory against ACORN

NEW YORK – A federal appeals court on Wednesday handed the government a victory by temporarily blocking a judge’s finding that Congress was wrong to halt federal funding to the activist group ACORN.
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan also agreed to expedite the government’s appeal …. Source article  : Appeals court in NY blocks ruling that found Congress was wrong to stop ACORN funding.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 4/21/10

NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
Craig Becker, of Illinois, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2014, vice Dennis P. Walsh, to which position he was appointed during the last recess of the Senate.

Jacqueline A. Berrien, of New York, to be a Member of … Read more »».

Remarks by National Security Advisor James L. Jones at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy

Michael Stein Address, Soref Symposium
25th Anniversary Soref Gala
Thank you all very much.  Thank you, Martin Gross, for your very kind introduction, and for your leadership as the Institute’s new president.  You have 25 years of Institute history to live up to…and 25 years of Institute presidents watching to make sure you get it right.

Thank you …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Remarks by National Security Advisor James L. Jones at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

Presidential Proclamation – Earth Day

A PROCLAMATION
In the fall of 1969, Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson announced plans for a national "environmental teach-in" — one day, each year, of action and advocacy for the environment. His words rallied our Nation, and the first Earth Day, as it became known, saw millions come together to meet one of the greatest challenges of …. Original article  : Presidential Proclamation — Earth Day.

Alagiri absence now rocks Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – A day after the issue disrupted the Lok Sabha, the absence of Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister M.K. Alagiri rocked the Rajya Sabha Friday when he failed to show up during question hour.
So vociferous were the protests led by V. Maitreyan and other AIADMK members that Chairman Hamid Ansari even threatened …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ousted president of Kyrgyzstan vows not to return home as president but says hasn’t resigned

Ousted Kyrgyz president won’t go back
MINSK, Belarus – The ousted leader of Kyrgyzstan has said from exile in Belarus that he does not intend to return to his homeland as president – but insists a resignation he signed has not come into force.

Kurmanbek Bakiyev was deposed in an April 7 uprising that left 85 people … Original article on : Ousted president of Kyrgyzstan vows not to return home as president but says hasn’t resigned.

Amid rocky Israel-US relations, White House envoy aims to renew peace talks

US envoy aims to renew Israeli-Palestinian talks

JERUSALEM – A White House envoy trying Friday to get Israelis and Palestinians talking again faced a second challenge – navigating the rocky relations between Israel and the U.S.
Senator and veteran negotiator George Mitchell’s most important meeting, scheduled for Friday afternoon, was to be with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Amid rocky Israel-US relations, White House envoy aims to renew peace talks.

NATO chief says Afghan war effort improving as allies aim to begin winding it down in 2011

Allied leader says Afghan war effort now on track
TALLINN, Estonia – NATO’s top official said Friday the 28-nation alliance is on track with its new strategy for winding down the war in Afghanistan next year, despite security setbacks and a continuing shortage of foreign trainers for the fledgling Afghan police and army.
NATO Secretary …. Original article  : NATO chief says Afghan war effort improving as allies aim to begin winding it down in 2011.

Sarah Palin takes rare detour to liberal town to speak at GOP fundraiser in Oregon

Sarah Palin visits liberal Oregon stronghold
Sarah Palin could have hardly picked a more crunchy granola town to give a speech in than Eugene.
Despite its pioneer and logging heritage, the town where Nike running shoes were born from a waffle iron is high on organic food, snobby about craft beers and tattoos, …. Original article  : Sarah Palin takes rare detour to liberal town to speak at GOP fundraiser in Oregon.

Morales’ comments on gays, chickens, baldness trump climate event

LA PAZ – A three-day conference on climate change in the central Bolivian town of Tiquipaya made more headlines for the striking comments by Bolivian President Evo Morales than any concrete proposals.

“The chicken we eat is full of female hormones,” Morales claimed Tuesday. “That is why men, when they eat this chicken, have deviations in …. Original source  : Morales’ comments on gays, chickens, baldness trump climate event.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over IPL row

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Friday over the opposition’s demand for a parliamentary probe into the Indian Premier League (IPL) row and the alleged involvement of politicians in the body.

As soon as zero hour began, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members led by S.S. Ahluwalia, Rajiv Pratap Rudy and Prakash Javadekar were on …. Source  : Rajya Sabha adjourned over IPL row.

Clinton and NATO map out requirements to begin winding down Afghan war by 2011

Clinton and NATO plan West’s Afghan exit
TALLINN, Estonia – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is expected to press other NATO nations to provide more trainers for Afghanistan’s police and military forces as part of preparations to withdraw Western troops from there by summer 2011.
Clinton and representatives of 27 other … Read more : Clinton and NATO map out requirements to begin winding down Afghan war by 2011.

Congress finalises list of ministers for Meghalaya

SHILLONG – The Congress has finalised its list of ministers to be sworn in Saturday as ministers in the new Meghalaya government headed by Chief Minister Mukul M. Sangma.
“The party high command has approved the list and the remaining eight ministers will be inducted Saturday morning,” Sangma told IANS from New Delhi, … Read : Congress finalises list of ministers for Meghalaya.

90 percent suspects in Benazir assassination case behind bars: Zardari

LAHORE – Assuring that each and every person involved in former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination would be brought to justice, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has said that ‘90 percent’ of those accused have already been arrested.

Addressing a delegation of mediapersons, Zardari said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 90 percent suspects in Benazir assassination case behind bars: Zardari.

Families say 2 of 3 Americans jailed in Iran are in poor health, according to Swiss diplomats

2 Americans jailed in Iran reported in poor health

MINNEAPOLIS – Two of three American hikers jailed in Iran for nearly nine months are in poor health and told Swiss diplomats – their first outside visitors since October – that they were considering a hunger strike, their mothers said late Thursday.
Sarah Shourd, who is being held …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Families say 2 of 3 Americans jailed in Iran are in poor health, according to Swiss diplomats.

Families say 2 of 3 Americans jailed in Iraq are in poor health, according to Swiss diplomats

2 Americans jailed in Iraq reported in poor health

MINNEAPOLIS – Two of three American hikers jailed in Iran for nearly nine months are in poor health and told Swiss diplomats – their first outside visitors since October – that they were considering a hunger strike, their mothers said late Thursday.
Sarah Shourd, who is being held … Read more »»».

Reprocessing deal may sail through US Congress

WASHINGTON – The recently concluded agreement on reprocessing of spent US origin nuclear fuel by India is expected to have a smooth sail through US Congress as it does not require a formal legislative nod.
“It may be one of those cases where we notify the Congress and then it has like 30 business …. Read the original article  : Reprocessing deal may sail through US Congress.

Grenade attacks kill at least 1 in Thai capital; protesters, security forces stand off nearby

Attacks in Bangkok kill at least 1 amid standoff

BANGKOK – Security forces and agitated protesters faced off at a major intersection Friday after bloody grenade attacks rattled Thailand’s chaotic capital – a scene of tense, weekslong confrontations between die-hard demonstrators and a wavering government.
The late-night attacks killed at least one person and wounded 86, according … Read more >>.

India seeks accord to avoid dual social security taxation

WASHINGTON – India has asked the United States to recognise that New Delhi has achieved significant progress towards comprehensive social security coverage and start negotiations on a bilateral agreement to avoid dual social security taxation.

Raising the issue with the US Labour Secretary Hilda Solis here Thursday, Indian Labour and Employment Minister Mallikarjun Kharge pointed out … Read more : India seeks accord to avoid dual social security taxation.

Grenade attacks kill 3 in Thai capital; agitated protesters, security forces stand off nearby

Attacks in Thai capital kill 3 amid tense standoff

BANGKOK – Security forces and agitated protesters faced off at a major intersection Friday after bloody grenade attacks rattled Thailand’s chaotic capital – a scene of tense, weekslong confrontations between die-hard demonstrators and a wavering government.
The late-night attacks killed three people and wounded 75, Deputy Prime Minister …. Source  : Grenade attacks kill 3 in Thai capital; agitated protesters, security forces stand off nearby.

Govt report says health care overhaul won’t cut costs but will increase them

Report: Health overhaul will increase nation’s tab
WASHINGTON – Government economic forecasters say President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul will increase the nation’s health care tab instead of bringing costs down.
The report by economic experts at the Health and Human Services Department, released late Thursday, says the health care remake will achieve Obama’s aim … Original article on : Govt report says health care overhaul won’t cut costs but will increase them.

UN re-appoints top environment, refugee chiefs

NEW YORK – The UN General Assembly Thursday approved a new four-year contract for Achim Steiner of Germany, the executive director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) that has been an important part in the global fight against climate change.

Steiner has been active in implementing UN programmes to prevent the deterioration of the environment and … Read more »»».

Gov. Schweitzer says rents reduced on dozens of state leases, saving more than $3.4 million

Montana negotiates lower rent on dozens of leases

HELENA, Mont. – Montana has renegotiated dozens of leases with landlords across the state, reducing the rent agencies pay by more than $3.4 million over the life of those leases, Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Thursday.
The state rents thousands of square feet of office space in cities and towns …. Source article  : Gov. Schweitzer says rents reduced on dozens of state leases, saving more than $3.4 million.

US agents remove passenger added to ‘no-fly’ list en route to New York from Africa

US detains NY-bound passenger in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A man on a flight from West Africa to New York City was removed from the plane and detained Thursday after authorities apparently added him to a no-fly list during the trip.
Customs and Border Protection agents detained the man while the Delta Air Lines … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US agents remove passenger added to ‘no-fly’ list en route to New York from Africa.

Four years after ouster, Nepal’s deposed king having last laugh

KATHMANDU – Four years after he was forced to end his army-propped regime and endure the start of a retributive process to abolish monarchy, Nepal’s deposed king Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah may have had the last laugh with the peace process in tatters and political parties facing the same public wrath he had.

On April 24, …. Original source  : Four years after ouster, Nepal’s deposed king having last laugh.

In Arab-America capital, ancient hookah tradition threatened by Michigan smoking ban

Mich. hookah fanciers fume about smoking ban

DEARBORN, Mich. – The main thoroughfares of this Detroit suburb, like those of many Michigan cities, aren’t as busy as they used to be.
Thousands of jobs shed locally by the Ford Motor Co. have forced smaller businesses to shutter and left fewer customers for those that remain. Yet there … Read more : In Arab-America capital, ancient hookah tradition threatened by Michigan smoking ban.

Candidate for Obama’s old US Senate seat says closure of family bank will not halt campaign

Candidate for Obama’s old US Senate seat undaunted
CHICAGO – Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias appears undaunted by the shuttering of his family’s bank, saying his bid to keep President Barack Obama’s old Senate seat in Democratic hands will move forward with renewed purpose.
Regulators shut down Broadway Bank on Friday when it became clear that …. Original source  : Candidate for Obama’s old US Senate seat says closure of family bank will not halt campaign.

CPI-M asks government to own up phone tapping

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Saturday asked the government to admit tapping the telephones of four top political leaders and sought action against those who ordered the alleged surveillance.

“The government must own up responsibility in the matter and take action against those who ordered the surveillance. Protecting the covert activities of … Original article on : CPI-M asks government to own up phone tapping.

BJP flays Congress over alleged phone tapping

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday accused the Congress of going back to the “Emergency” days after a report alleged that telephones of four top political leaders had been tapped.

“This is completely undemocratic. Nothing justifies it. It indicates the Congress is getting back to Emergency days mindset,” BJP spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman told … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP flays Congress over alleged phone tapping.

Guarded optimism emerges in Thai crisis after protesters ease deadline for PM resignation

Guarded hope rises for peaceful end to Thai crisis

BANGKOK – Guarded hope rose Saturday that Thailand’s political deadlock, punctuated by increasing hostility and bloody street violence, could be settled peacefully after protesters softened their demand for an immediate change in government.
But one protest leader said he was unhappy with Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva’s apparent brush-off …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Guarded optimism emerges in Thai crisis after protesters ease deadline for PM resignation.

‘Hostile’ Musharraf never wanted Bhutto to return to Pak in 2007 for elections

LAHORE – Former Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf had a confrontation with slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto over the telephone days before she returned to the country in 2007, Bhutto’s close friend and adviser Mark Siegel has disclosed.
According to Siegel, Musharraf had called Bhutto when she was in the United States to …. Read the original article  : ‘Hostile’ Musharraf never wanted Bhutto to return to Pak in 2007 for elections.

Sarah Palin praises organic food and granola at GOP fundraiser in liberal-leaning Oregon town

Palin raises money for GOP in liberal Oregon town

EUGENE, Ore. – Sarah Palin praised Republicans at a fundraising dinner in a liberal-leaning Oregon town for having the boldness to invite her to speak.
The former governor of Alaska and vice presidential candidate was the headliner in Eugene Friday night for the Lane County Republican Party’s Lincoln …. Source article  : Sarah Palin praises organic food and granola at GOP fundraiser in liberal-leaning Oregon town.

Voting under way in violence-hit Bangladesh constituency

DHAKA – Voting was under way Saturday morning in Bhola-3, a parliamentary constituency in southern Bangladesh that had witnessed pre-poll violence.

Polling began at 8 a.m. in Lalmohan and Tajumuddin towns in the constituency amid tight security, reported Star Online, the website of The Daily Star.
Violence continued on the eve of the polls … Original source on Gaea Times at : Voting under way in violence-hit Bangladesh constituency.

Obama adviser Axelrod says president and pastry chef had to ’separate’ over pie binge

White House adviser spills secret: Obama loves pie
BURBANK, Calif. – Presidents have had their indulgences – Ronald Reagan loved jellybeans and Bill Clinton binged at McDonald’s. What’s President Barack Obama’s weak spot?
Pie.
Obama’s senior adviser, David Axelrod, told Jay Leno Friday that the president was forced to “separate” from the … Read more >>.

Navy says it will name next amphibious ship after late Pa. Rep. John Murtha, a former Marine

Navy to name next ship after late Rep. John Murtha

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – The Navy is naming its next amphibious ship after the late western Pennsylvania congressman John Murtha.
Navy Secretary Ray Mabus made the announcement Friday at the Johnstown-Cambria County Airport. Murtha’s family and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi were in attendance.
Murtha, a former Marine, represented the [..] Read the original article: here.

Feds close bank owned by family of Ill. treasurer, candidate for Obama’s old US Senate seat

Feds shuts down bank owned by Giannoulias
CHICAGO – Regulators shut down the bank owned by Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias’ family on Friday, setting up an expected but daunting challenge in his bid to keep President Barack Obama’s old Senate seat in Democratic hands.
Broadway Bank, which was heavy into real estate loans …. Source article  : Feds close bank owned by family of Ill. treasurer, candidate for Obama’s old US Senate seat.

Feds close bank owned by family of Ill. treasurer, candidate for Obama’s old Senate seat

FDIC shuts down bank owned by Giannoulias family
CHICAGO – Federal regulators have shut down the bank owned by the family of Alexi Giannoulias (jeh-NOO’-lee-ehs), the Democrat running for President Barack Obama’s former Senate seat.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. made the announcement on its website after the close of business Friday.
Broadway Bank was heavy … Read more : Feds close bank owned by family of Ill. treasurer, candidate for Obama’s old Senate seat.

Key provisions of Arizona immigration legislation signed into law by governor

Key provisions of Arizona immigration legislation

Key provisions of Arizona’s immigration legislation, signed into law by Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer on Friday:
- Makes it a crime under state law to be in the country illegally by specifically requiring immigrants to have proof of their immigration status. Violations are a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months …. Source  : Key provisions of Arizona immigration legislation signed into law by governor.

Mideast negotiations difficult, not impossible: US envoy

RAMALLAH – US envoy for the Middle East Senator George Mitchell Friday said Palestinian-Israeli negotiations are facing many difficulties, but stressed that he is determined to continue efforts for peace.

Mitchell’s surprise arrival in the region, aimed at getting proximity talks going again, began in Israel and ended with his arrival in Ramallah for talks with …. Read the original article  : Mideast negotiations difficult, not impossible: US envoy.

NATO agrees to hand control to Afghans later this year; Clinton warns of rocky road ahead

Allies aim to start handover of power to Afghans

TALLINN, Estonia – Fearful of losing public support for the war in Afghanistan, the U.S. and NATO on Friday agreed to start transferring control of the country back to its leaders by year’s end but acknowledged that achieving stability will take decades.
If successful, the transition plan approved … Read more : NATO agrees to hand control to Afghans later this year; Clinton warns of rocky road ahead.

Press briefing on the Presidential Summit on Entrepreneurship by Senior Administration Officals

PRESS BRIEFING ON THE
PRESIDENTIAL SUMMIT ON ENTREPRENEURSHIP
BY BEN RHODES, DEPUTY NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR FOR STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS; PRADEEP RAMAMURTHY, NSC SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT; FRANCISCO SANCHEZ, UNDERSECRETARY FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE; JUDITH MCHALE, UNDERSECRETARY FOR PUBLIC DIPLOMACY AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Via Teleconference
2:08 P.M. EDT
MR. RHODES:  Thanks, everybody, for joining the call.  … Read more >>>.

German shepherd awarded with dog bowl for leading Alaska trooper to blaze at owners’ workshop

Alaska dog honored for leading troopers to fire

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Buddy the German shepherd is being hailed as a hero for guiding Alaska State Troopers through winding back roads to a fire at his owners’ workshop.
The dog on Friday received a stainless steel dog bowl engraved with words of appreciation from troopers for his “diligence …. Source article  : German shepherd awarded with dog bowl for leading Alaska trooper to blaze at owners’ workshop.

Statement by the Press Secretary on the Three American Hikers Detained in Iran

The United States remains deeply concerned by the case of three American hikers, Shane Bauer, Josh Fattal, and Sarah Shourd, who have been detained in Iran without charge or access to legal representation since July 2009. While we welcome the decision by the Iranian authorities to allow Shane, Sarah and Josh to receive another Swiss …. Original article  : Statement by the Press Secretary on the Three American Hikers Detained in Iran.

Census mail response hits 72 percent, but states in South and West lag in high-stakes count

Census returns hit 72 percent, match rate in 2000

WASHINGTON – It’s down to the wire: With a few days left before final mail-in results are tallied, nearly three-fourths of U.S. households have returned their census form.
But many fast-growing states in the South and West still lag in participation. Results from the decennial head count are …. Source article  : Census mail response hits 72 percent, but states in South and West lag in high-stakes count.

Hundreds expected to demonstrate against new Arizona illegal immigration law at state Capitol

Illegal immigrant law opponents to rally in Ariz.

PHOENIX – A large rally protesting Arizona’s new immigration law is planned at the state Capitol in Phoenix.
The demonstration is expected to draw hundreds Sunday afternoon. It comes two days after Gov. Jan Brewer signed a bill that requires police to question people about their immigration status, including … Read more »».

Manmohan to meet Karzai Monday, Taliban worry tops agenda

NEW DELHI – A day before Afghan President Hamid Karzai arrives here on a two-day visit, his Foreign Minister Zalmay Rassoul was in the Indian capital Sunday on a daylong trip for talks that are expected to see India airing its concerns over a proposal to reintegrate the Taliban in Afghanistan.
External Affairs Minister …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan to meet Karzai Monday, Taliban worry tops agenda.

Speak in code word, Lalu advises Nitish

Parliamentarian and former railway minister Lalu Prasad has advised Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar to speak in code word, a day after PMO was accused of tapping the phone of four politicians.

Nitish is among the four politicians whose phones were allegedly tapped by the National Technical Research Organisation which comes under the PMO.
“Don’t worry, speak … Original source on Gaea Times at : Speak in code word, Lalu advises Nitish.

Thailand in turmoil following PM’s rejection of Red Shirts’ compromise offer

Bangkok, Apr 25(ANI): Thailand is once again in a political deadlock after Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva refused to dissolve the House in 30 days, and organize new elections 60 days after that.

Abhisit said in a televised statement that he will not negotiate with the Red Shirts because they use violence and intimidation.
The leaders of Thailand’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Papal-branded condoms suggestion stirs row, Britain sorry

LONDON – The British government has offered an apology to the Pope over a secret document that, poking fun at his forthcoming visit to the country, suggested he launch Papal-branded condoms and bless a gay marriage.

The shocking proposals were part of secret papers prepared earlier this month. The proposals were leaked to The Sunday Telegraph. …. Source  : Papal-branded condoms suggestion stirs row, Britain sorry.

Thai protesters vow to continue occupation of key Bangkok sites after PM offers no solutions

Thai protesters vow to hold key Bangkok sites

BANGKOK – Thai protesters occupying key areas of Bangkok vowed Sunday to fight until victory following a breakdown of negotiations and a televised appearance by the prime minister that offered no solution to the protracted, sometimes bloody crisis.
The so-called Red Shirts also urged their supporters in provincial areas …. Read the original article  : here.

Aides: Abbas may meet with President Obama next month, but no date set

Aides: Abbas may meet with Obama soon, no date set

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Aides to Mahmoud Abbas say the Palestinian leader could meet with President Barack Obama soon.
Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat says the Palestinians requested such a meeting and were told by Obama’s envoy that the U.S. leader would see Abbas in the near future. … Read more : Aides: Abbas may meet with President Obama next month, but no date set.

Gursharan Kaur dedicates book on photojournalist Kulwant Roy’s works

NEW DELHI – Gursharan Kaur, wife of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, has released a book titled ‘History in the Making’, a collection of the works of photojournalist Kulwant Roy.

The book release function was held on Saturday.
Compiled by Aditya Arya and Indivar Kamtekar and published by Harper Collins India, the foreword has been written by …. Original article  : Gursharan Kaur dedicates book on photojournalist Kulwant Roy’s works.

CPM, TDP to press for JPC to probe ‘IPL-Gate’

Siliguri / Hyderabad, Apr 25 (ANI): The Communist Party of India (Marxist), has reiterated its demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe into alleged financial irregularities in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Addressing media on Saturday in West Bengal’s Siliguri, CPM politburo member Brinda Karat asked for a probe by the parliamentary panel.
“All the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CPM, TDP to press for JPC to probe ‘IPL-Gate’.

Manmohan Singh’s positive steps being marred by India’s internal politics: Qureshi

MULTAN – Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said that Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s positive steps in reducing heightened tension between India and Pakistan is being marred by internal politics and pressure.
Interacting with media persons on the sidelines of a convocation ceremony of the Bahauddin Zakariya University here, Qureshi hailed Dr.Singh’s …. Read the original article  : Manmohan Singh’s positive steps being marred by India’s internal politics: Qureshi.

‘Nitish criticism of Op Green Hunt a political gimmick’

Although chief minister Nitish Kumar has reiterated not to launch Operation Green Hunt in his home land, a massive crackdown continuing at the level of the state govenrment has dealt a heavy blow to the organisational structure of the separatists in Bihar.

A recent police report said a total of 125 top-ranking Maoists have been arrested … Original article on : ‘Nitish criticism of Op Green Hunt a political gimmick’.

Thai premier’s national TV broadcast disrupted

BANGKOK – A televised broadcast of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva was cut off for several minutes Sunday by suspected saboteurs, the prime minister said.

The broadcast of Abhisit and Army Commander-in-Chief General Anupong Paochinda was taped Saturday to explain the government’s stance on a protest movement that has seized the centre of Bangkok and led … Read more : Thai premier’s national TV broadcast disrupted.

Thai PM says he underestimated protest movement, offers no ideas to end crisis

Thai PM says he underestimated protesters
BANGKOK – Thailand’s embattled prime minister acknowledged he initially underestimated the protesters who have occupied central Bangkok for weeks, but he offered no initiatives Sunday to end the country’s prolonged, sometimes bloody political crisis.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva spoke in a nationally televised interview a day after the breakdown of talks … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Thai PM says he underestimated protest movement, offers no ideas to end crisis.

On TV, Thai PM offers no ideas to end blood-stained crisis after rejecting protesters’ offer

On TV, Thai PM offers no new ideas to end crisis

BANGKOK – Thailand’s embattled prime minister appeared on television Sunday but offered no initiatives to end the country’s weekslong, sometimes bloody, political crisis a day after rejecting a compromise proposal by protesters occupying central Bangkok.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva spoke in a nationally televised interview a …. Source article  : On TV, Thai PM offers no ideas to end blood-stained crisis after rejecting protesters’ offer.

Documentary on former NY governor Eliot Spitzer premieres at Tribeca Film Festival

Spitzer documentary premieres at Tribeca Film Fest

NEW YORK – A much-anticipated documentary about former New York governor Eliot Spitzer premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.
Though many of those interviewed for the film were in attendance Saturday evening, the documentary’s subject was not. Director Alex Gibney, whose “Taxi to the Dark Side” won the 2007 documentary … Read more : Documentary on former NY governor Eliot Spitzer premieres at Tribeca Film Festival.

Thai PM addresses nation after rejecting protesters’ offer to end blood-stained crisis

Thai PM addresses nation amid blood-stained crisis

BANGKOK – Thailand’s embattled prime minister is addressing the nation after rejecting a compromise offer from protesters demanding new elections.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva spoke on national television Sunday after the breakdown of talks with the protesters who say his government is illegitimate.
Violent clashes have killed at least 26 people …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Thai PM addresses nation after rejecting protesters’ offer to end blood-stained crisis.

Austrian presidential election pits incumbent vs controversial far-right politician

Austrian president poised to win second term

VIENNA – Austria’s president is widely expected to win a second term Sunday. But the elections are being watched as a yardstick of far-right sentiment, measured by how well a politician who has taken issue with the country’s anti-Nazi law will do.
Polls predict a clear win for incumbent Heinz …. Source article  : Austrian presidential election pits incumbent vs controversial far-right politician.

E-mails released by Goldman from trader Fabrice Tourre on collapse of subprime-backed market

E-mails from Goldman trader on subprime collapse

Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and a Senate subcommittee traded a barrage of e-mails on Saturday.
First, the Senate’s Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations released e-mail threads among Goldman executives showing them boasting at the money they were making by betting against the housing market.
Within hours, Goldman countered with 26 internal documents, … Read more : E-mails released by Goldman from trader Fabrice Tourre on collapse of subprime-backed market.

Obama lawyer Bob Bauer, point man on Supreme Court vacancy, low-key with a sledge hammer

Obama counsel on court choice: firmness, finesse
WASHINGTON – White House counsel Bob Bauer, President Barack Obama’s point man in the search for a new Supreme Court justice, manages to get credit both for an even temperament and his finesse with a sledge hammer.
The combination is evident in one of Bauer’s favorite memories from …. Original source  : Obama lawyer Bob Bauer, point man on Supreme Court vacancy, low-key with a sledge hammer.

UN says 2 killed in clashes between protesters and security forces south Sudan

Police, protesters clash in south Sudan; 2 killed

KHARTOUM, Sudan – Security forces in south Sudan clashed with protesters upset with results from the country’s recent elections, leaving at least two people dead and wounding four more, a United Nations official said Saturday.
The violence comes amid fears that a flawed vote in Sudan’s elections earlier this … Read : UN says 2 killed in clashes between protesters and security forces south Sudan.

Not satisfied with Chidambaram’s reply, says opposition

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Saturday said they were not satisfied with Home Minister P. Chidambaram’s denial that the government did not tap telephones of four senior political leaders.
BJP leader M. Venkaiah Naidu said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should respond to the …. Source  : Not satisfied with Chidambaram’s reply, says opposition.

Not ruling out Singh-Gilani meeting in Bhutan: Krishna

THIMPHU – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Monday said a bilateral meeting between the prime ministers of India and Pakistan can’t be ruled out on the sidelines of the SAARC summit here and stressed that all issues will be discussed if the two leaders meet.
“I am not ruling it out,” Krishna said when … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Not ruling out Singh-Gilani meeting in Bhutan: Krishna.

PDP demands revocation of armed forces act

SRINAGAR – Hundreds of activists of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) staged a peaceful march here to press the party’s demand for final resolution of the Kashmir issue and revocation of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

The PDP leaders and activists marched to the historic city centre Lal Chowk shouting slogans though the … Original article on : PDP demands revocation of armed forces act.

City officials: East Jerusalem construction frozen despite Netanyahu declarations to contrary

City officials: East Jerusalem construction frozen

JERUSALEM – Two Jerusalem officials say Israel has frozen plans for new construction in the city’s disputed eastern sector despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s declarations to the contrary.
They say the decision was taken after Israel infuriated Washington last month by announcing a major new east Jerusalem construction project during a [..] Read the original article: here.

Germany prepares legislation for contribution to Greek financial aid package

Germany prepares legislation for Greek aid package

BERLIN – Government officials say Germany is starting to lay the legal ground for its contribution to the financial aid package for debt-laden Greece.
A spokeswoman for the Finance Ministry said on Monday minister Wolfgang Schaeuble and leading lawmakers from all parties were to meet in the morning to discuss …. Original source  : Germany prepares legislation for contribution to Greek financial aid package.

Rajasthan Governor Prabha Rau dies after fall in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Rajasthan Governor Prabha Rau passed away at a New Delhi hospital Monday after a fall in the Jodhpur House guesthouse here, officials said. She was 74.

Rau, a former Maharashtra minister, is survived by two daughters.
The officials said she slipped in the toilet and was rushed to the All India Institute of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rajasthan Governor Prabha Rau dies after fall in Delhi.

Government denies phone tapping amid parliament uproar (Afternoon Lead)

NEW DELHI – The government Monday “categorically” denied ordering the tapping of telephones of key political leaders amid vehement protests by a united opposition that stalled both houses of parliament.
Amid a furore over the issue, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said in the Lok Sabha that the government had investigated but found “nothing to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Government denies phone tapping amid parliament uproar (Afternoon Lead).

Nepal government asks Maoists to call off May Day protests

KATHMANDU – Ahead of a show of might announced by Nepal’s Maoist parties in the capital on May Day, the ruling parties Monday urged the former guerrillas to call off the protests, saying they were against the peace pact that helped the banned party return to mainstream politics four years ago.

Amidst reports that the former …. Original source  : Nepal government asks Maoists to call off May Day protests.

Rajasthan Governor Prabha Rau passes away

NEW DELHI – Rajasthan Governor Prabha Rau died here Monday after a fall at Jodhpur House here, officials said. She was rushed to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where she passed away. She was 74.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Rajasthan Governor Prabha Rau passes away.

What shaped Britain’s Nick Clegg? At school, centuries-old tradition and liberal thought

Early days: the schooling of a British politician

In the early 1980s, Nick Clegg, a young challenger riding a surge of voter disgust with Britain’s political heavyweights, was a boy at the elite Westminster School in London, a short walk from the Parliament that he seeks to transform in elections on May 6. His routines were … Read more : What shaped Britain’s Nick Clegg? At school, centuries-old tradition and liberal thought.

Thai PM warns citizens of opposition Red Shirts “terrorist behaviour”

BANGKOK – At a meeting attended by governors of 61 provinces, Thailand’s Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has requested them to inform the residents of their constituencies of the ” terrorist behaviour” of some Red Shirt leaders.

Vejjajiva urged the governors to reassure their constituents that while the government will not … Read more >>>.

Rajya Sabha adjourned thrice over phone tapping (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned thrice Monday, the third time for the day, with angry opposition members demanding a parliamentary probe on the government’s alleged tapping of telephones of prominent politicians, including one from the ruling Congress.
A “categorical” assurance by Home Minister P. Chidambaram that no phone tapping was ordered … Read more : Rajya Sabha adjourned thrice over phone tapping (Second Lead).

Bharat Bandh Happening Tomorrow

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Leftist political parties have called a Bharat Bandh tomorrow April 27th, to protest against price hike and allied issues. However, the Left Front which has been facing the heat of the public dissent in the last two years in several polls is trying not to cause too much inconvenience … Read more : Bharat Bandh Happening Tomorrow.

Yemeni officials say British ambassador escapes explosion near his car, is unhurt

Yemen: British ambassador escapes explosion

SAN’A, Yemen – Yemeni officials say the British ambassador narrowly escaped what appeared to be a suicide attack on his armored car while on his way to work.
British Embassy spokeswoman Chantel Mortimer said the ambassador, Timothy Torlot, was unhurt.
The Yemeni officials said the vehicle was passing through a poor neighborhood in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Yemeni officials say British ambassador escapes explosion near his car, is unhurt.

Thai protesters told to ditch red shirts as bomb threats rattle capital

Thai protesters told to ditch red shirts
BANGKOK – Thailand’s “Red Shirt” protesters, wary of a possible crackdown, told their followers to ditch their signature crimson attire so they can go undercover as more bomb threats rattled the tense Thai capital Monday.

There was no violence in the central Bangkok shopping area where protesters remained camped for … Original article on : Thai protesters told to ditch red shirts as bomb threats rattle capital.

Government ‘categorically’ denies authorising phone tapping

NEW DELHI – The government Monday “categorically” denied it had authorised the tapping of phones of key political leaders.
Amid a furore over the issue in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said the government had investigated the matter but found “nothing to substantiate” the allegations reported in a weekly magazine last week. …. Source  : Government ‘categorically’ denies authorising phone tapping.

Rajya Sabha adjourned twice on phone tapping issue

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned twice Monday with irate opposition members demanding that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh make a statement on a report that the government had tapped phones of politicians.
Trouble erupted soon after the house assembled with Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) MPs protesting the phone tapping issue.
Minister …. Original article  : Rajya Sabha adjourned twice on phone tapping issue.

Conservative GOP incumbent may be too liberal for ultraconservative Utah to win re-election

Conservative Westerner feels anti-incumbent fervor

SALT LAKE CITY – Republican Sen. Bob Bennett – darling of the National Rifle Association and grandson of a Mormon Church president – suddenly may not be conservative enough for ultraconservative Utah.
Bennett could become the first 2010 election casualty among incumbent U.S. senators if he fails to win at least 40 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Conservative GOP incumbent may be too liberal for ultraconservative Utah to win re-election.

PM to speak in Lok Sabha over phone tapping

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will speak in the Lok Sabha over allegations of politicians’ phones being tapped by government agencies, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee told the house Monday amid furious protests by opposition MPs.
“PM is ready to speak in the house at 3.30 p.m.,” said Mukherjee, who is the leader …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PM to speak in Lok Sabha over phone tapping.

Phone tapping fury stalls Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned Monday as opposition MPs demanded a statement from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over the alleged phone tapping of politicians by the government.
BJP parliamentary party chairman L.K. Advani said the opposition will settle for nothing less than a statement from the prime minister.
Lok Sabha Speaker …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Conspiracy to save government, says BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said Tuesday that it would move a cut motion in the Lok Sabha with a view to expose the parties keen on saving the government from a legislative defeat.
BJP leader Ananth Kumar told reporters that the party’s deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, Gopinath Munde, … Read more : Conspiracy to save government, says BJP.

BJP gives breach of privilege notice against PM

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday gave a breach of privilege notice in the Lok Sabha against Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for his remarks outside the house rejecting the need for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to probe the phone-tapping and IPL controversy.
“The opposition has been demanding there should be …. Source article  : BJP gives breach of privilege notice against PM.

BSP to back UPA on cut motion: Mayawati

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati said her party would support the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government over the cut motion expected to be moved in the Lok Sabha Tuesday.

“In the wake of soaring prices and wrong and faulty economic policies of the central government, we should have …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BSP to back UPA on cut motion: Mayawati.

Army troops guard Bangkok elevated train stops after protesters overrun downtown station

Protesters disrupt Bangkok elevated trains

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters forced a rush hour shutdown of Bangkok’s busy elevated train system Tuesday and promised to expand the protests that have plunged the Thai capital into chaos by sending teams of demonstrators throughout the city.
The prime minister, who has broken off negotiations with the protesters occupying parts of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Army troops guard Bangkok elevated train stops after protesters overrun downtown station.

Austria says it will only provide funds to debt-stricken Greece in unison with other countries

Austria: No advance help for Greece
VIENNA – Austria’s finance minister says his country will only provide funds to debt-stricken Greece in unison with other countries.

Josef Proell was quoted by the Austria Press Agency Tuesday as saying that legal means are in place to transfer funds but that Austria won’t make any payments until the solidarity …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Austria says it will only provide funds to debt-stricken Greece in unison with other countries.

Smoke bomb, eggs thrown at Ukraine speaker

Kiev, April 27 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A smoke bomb and eggs were thrown at the Ukraine parliament speaker during a hearing Tuesday to ratify a naval base deal with Russia.

The hearings started with a brawl, and a smoke bomb and eggs were thrown at the speaker Volodymyr Litvyn, while several lawmakers walked out of parliament.
The … Read : Smoke bomb, eggs thrown at Ukraine speaker.

My work will speak for itself: Shashi Tharoor

NEW DELHI – Shashi Tharoor Tuesday said his “work will speak for itself”, when asked about his future plans after quitting as junior foreign minister over his alleged links to the Kochi Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise.

He refused to elaborate. “I am not giving any media interviews. My work will speak for itself,” he told …. Original source  : My work will speak for itself: Shashi Tharoor.

Amid flying eggs and drifting smoke, Ukrainian parliament ratifies Russian naval lease

Ukraine ratitifes Russian naval lease
KIEV, Ukraine – Ukraine’s parliament has voted to extend Russia’s lease of a Crimean naval port for the Black Sea Fleet in a chaotic session during which eggs and smoke bombs were thrown.

The measure is also up for ratification in the Russian parliament, where a far more orderly session is under …. Original source  : Amid flying eggs and drifting smoke, Ukrainian parliament ratifies Russian naval lease.

Support of UPA allies ‘intact’ on cut motion, says Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress said the government will face no problem in getting its financial agenda passed in the Lok Sabha Tuesday when opposition parties plan to move cut motions on the budget proposals.

“The support of UPA (United Progressive Alliance) allies is intact,” Congress MP Jagdambika Pal told IANS.
He said the Samajwadi Party …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Support of UPA allies ‘intact’ on cut motion, says Congress.

Malay-Indian youngsters to discuss community issues with Prime Minister

MALAYSIA – Malay-Indian winners of the “The Wish List of Generation 2020″ competition will share their vision directly with the Malay Prime Minister Najib Razak on June 12 this year.

The competition has been organised by the government to give the Malaysian Government … Original article on : Malay-Indian youngsters to discuss community issues with Prime Minister.

WHO chief meets with North Korean health officials during rare trip to reclusive country

WHO chief meets with NKorean health officials

SEOUL, South Korea – The head of the World Health Organization toured a medical facility and met with North Korean health officials Tuesday during a rare trip to the reclusive country.
WHO Director-General Margaret Chan arrived in the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, on Monday – becoming the U.N. agency’s first … Read : WHO chief meets with North Korean health officials during rare trip to reclusive country.

Samajwadi Party activists torch buses, stop trains

LUCKNOW – Samajwadi Party (SP) activists Tuesday hit the streets, torched buses, stopped trains and clashed with police in Allahabad and Lucknow districts of Uttar Pradesh during the nationwide strike by 13 political parties over rising food prices.

Over 100 activists, including SP state president Akhilesh Yadav, have been detained for carrying out violent protests. …. Source  : Samajwadi Party activists torch buses, stop trains.

Private funeral Tuesday for former Los Angeles police chief Daryl Gates

Former Los Angeles police chief to be laid to rest

LOS ANGELES – A funeral service will be held Tuesday for former Los Angeles police Chief Daryl Gates.
Gates served as chief from 1978 to 1992 and died of cancer earlier this month at his Dana Point home.
The private service will be held at the Cathedral of …. Source article  : Private funeral Tuesday for former Los Angeles police chief Daryl Gates.

Bhutanese refugees pin homecoming hopes on SAARC Summit

KATHMANDU – Tens of thousands of Bhutanese refugees, forced to leave their homes for nearly two decades, are pinning their hopes on the 16th SAARC Summit starting in Bhutan from Wednesday, dreaming it would set in motion talks for their return.

Nepal is home to the largest number of Bhutanese refugees who amount to nearly a … Read more >>>.

Musharraf’s close aide, family flee to UAE to avoid quizzing in Bhutto assassination case

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf’s close aide Tariq Aziz has fled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), along with his family, to avoid being interrogated by a fact finding committee, which has been formed by Prime Minister Yosuf Raza Gilani to probe former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination.

According to reports, Aziz, his … Read more >>.

NCP leader shot dead in Imphal

IMPHAL – Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Chungsei Haokip was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Imphal.

Sixty-year old Haokip was having food with a friend at a hotel here on Monday, when unidentified gunmen opened fire just after dawn.
His friend Haokai Lungpheng also received bullet injuries in …. Original article  : NCP leader shot dead in Imphal.

UPA Government likely to survive cut motion

NEW DELHI – The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government is likely to survive the cut motion to be introduced by the Opposition in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday with reports coming in that leaders of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) will abstain from … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UPA Government likely to survive cut motion.

Pak working on backdoor channels to resolve issues with India: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that Islamabad is making all efforts both through the diplomatic and backdoor channels to resolve all pending issues with New Delhi.

Interacting with media persons on board his special aircraft enroute to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pak working on backdoor channels to resolve issues with India: Gilani.

Palestinian PM rewrites rules of conflict with Israel, introduces new style of politics

A new style of politics in the West Bank
ARURA, West Bank – Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad is quietly changing the rules of the Arab-Israeli conflict with a simple credo: Palestinians have to build their state now and cannot wait for an elusive peace deal with Israel.

He is moving ahead with an ambitious plan to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Palestinian PM rewrites rules of conflict with Israel, introduces new style of politics.

Will they, won’t they? Ambiguity persists over Manmohan-Gilani meeting

ISLAMABAD – Ambiguity still persists over the meeting between Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh with his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani, with the latter saying that no meeting has been planned on the sidelines of the 16th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit to be held in Thimphu on April 28 and 29.

Talking … Read more >>>.

Thai security forces fire over and at protesters expanding demonstrations outside capital

Thai authorities fire at protesters near capital

BANGKOK – Thai security forces and anti-government protesters clashed Wednesday on the outskirts of Bangkok, with troops firing both over and then directly into a crowd of Red Shirts to keep them from expanding their demonstrations.
It was not immediately clear if the troops were shooting live ammunition or rubber …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Thai security forces fire over and at protesters expanding demonstrations outside capital.

Nepal’s ex-prince regaining his halo – by default

KATHMANDU – Four years after his car was stoned by angry protesters and his royal legacy abolished by parliament, Nepal’s former crown prince Paras has begun to regain his halo, thanks to the mounting public anger against the unsuccessful political parties.

Ahead of a fresh crisis with the Maoist party having called an indefinite general strike …. Source  : Nepal’s ex-prince regaining his halo – by default.

BJP pulls out of Soren government in Jharkhand

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Wednesday withdrew support to the Jharkhand government on grounds that Chief Minister Shibu Soren had “betrayed” it by voting against the cut motion in the Lok Sabha.

Announcing the withdrawal of support, BJP general secretary Ananth Kumar said the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) chief had “behaved in a … Read more : BJP pulls out of Soren government in Jharkhand.

Indian diplomat spy case is serious matter: Krishna

THIMPHU – The case of spying by an Indian woman diplomat at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad was a “serious issue”, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said here Wednesday. Pakistan also reiterated that it was an “internal matter” of India.
“Investigations are going on. We will have to wait till the investigations are …. Original article  : Indian diplomat spy case is serious matter: Krishna.

Burmese Junta resigns, expected to contest polls as civilians

MYANNAMAR -The mil;itary Junta in Myannamar, including the Prime Minister, has resigned and is expected to contest general elections to be held this year as civilians.

The Prime Minister, General Thein Sein, and twenty-two other Cabinet Ministers are reported to have given up their … Read more : Burmese Junta resigns, expected to contest polls as civilians.

Manmohan Singh arrives in Bhutan for SAARC Summit

PARO – Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh arrived at the Paro International Airport on Wednesday on a three-day visit to participate in the XVIth SAARC Summit that begins today.

He was received at the airport by the Bhutanese Prime Minister Jigme Y Thinley and India’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh arrives in Bhutan for SAARC Summit.

BJP to take final call on ties with Soren

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said it will take a final call on ties with Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren’s Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) at its Parliamentary board meeting to be held here at around … Read : BJP to take final call on ties with Soren.

BJP withdraws support to Soren government in Jharkhand

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday withdrew support to the Shibu Soren-led government in Jharkhand. The decision was taken at the BJP’s parliamentary board meeting held at Parliament House here.
…. Read the original article  : here.

Lok Sabha adjourned over phone tapping of firm

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned Wednesday over the alleged phone tapping of a lobbyist and a PR person on the controversial allocation of 2G telecom spectrum.
During zero hour, AIADMK MPs raised the copy of The Pioneer that reported that the Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) has acquired “clinching evidence” against Telecom …. Source  : Lok Sabha adjourned over phone tapping of firm.

Thai security forces fire in the air as protesters expand demonstrations outside capital

Thai authorities fire over protesters near capital

BANGKOK – Thai security forces and anti-government protesters faced off Wednesday on the outskirts of Bangkok, with troops firing in the air as they sought to keep the Red Shirts from expanding their demonstrations.
It was not immediately clear if the troops were shooting live ammunition or rubber bullets or … Read more »»».

Former PM calls for interim Iraqi government to halt efforts to change election results

Former PM urges interim government in Iraq

BAGHDAD – The front-runner in Iraq’s recent parliamentary elections on Wednesday called for the formation of an impartial caretaker government to prevent the country from sliding into violence and counter what he says are efforts to change the vote results.
Former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi, a secular Shiite whose cross-sectarian …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Democrats making 3rd attempt Wed. to gain GOP support for bill to tighten reins on Wall Street

Democrats still trying to advance Wall Street bill

WASHINGTON – Senate Democrats trying to tighten the reins on Wall Street scheduled another procedural vote for Wednesday on a financial regulatory bill that so far has been blocked by Republicans.
Senate Republicans have held together for two days, twice blocking the start of debate on the bill in …. Original source  : Democrats making 3rd attempt Wed. to gain GOP support for bill to tighten reins on Wall Street.

Thai authorities fire in the air as protesters parade through Bangkok suburb

Thai authorities fire near protesters
BANGKOK – Thai security forces and anti-government protesters faced off Wednesday on the outskirts of Bangkok, with troops firing in the air as they sought to keep the Red Shirts from expanding their demonstrations.

It was not immediately clear if the security forces were shooting live ammunition or rubber bullets or if … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Thai authorities fire in the air as protesters parade through Bangkok suburb.

Supreme Court takes up dispute over making public names of anti-gay rights petition signers

Court hears dispute on petition signers’ names

WASHINGTON – Gay rights opponents are asking the Supreme Court to protect the anonymity of the signers of a petition that sought a vote to overturn Washington state’s domestic partnership rights.
The case being argued at the high court Wednesday weighs the right to political speech, unfettered by fear of … Read more »».

JKLF chief on hunger strike against death for two Kashmiris

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Muhammad Yasin Malik Wednesday began a daylong hunger strike here to protest the death sentence being given to two Kashmiris in the 1996 Lajpat Nagar bomb blast case in New Delhi.

Malik and other senior leaders of the JKLF began their strike at party’s Maqbool Manzil headquarters … Original article on : JKLF chief on hunger strike against death for two Kashmiris.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over PR firm owner’s phone tapping

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Wednesday over the alleged phone tapping of a public relations firm owner on the allocation of 2G telecom spectrum.
The trouble erupted as soon as the upper house assembled with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and AIADMK members raising the issue. The house adjourned till 12 noon. … Read more : Rajya Sabha adjourned over PR firm owner’s phone tapping.

Bhutanese ‘trick’ makes Manmohan, Gilani neighbours (Thimphu Diary)

THIMPHU – Political antagonism may have kept Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani from meeting more often, but the leaders will be neighbours during their two-day stay in the Bhutanese capital.
Amid suspense over their possible bilateral meet, the two leaders have been housed in villas just metres … Read : Bhutanese ‘trick’ makes Manmohan, Gilani neighbours (Thimphu Diary).

Shibu Soren is a secular leader: Congress

NEW DELHI – Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren was a “secular” leader who may have been “uncomfortable” with the BJP in the state, the Congress said Wednesday, a day after the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader voted for the government on the cut motion moved by the opposition parties.

Congress general secretary and Jharkhand in-charge Keshav …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Shibu Soren is a secular leader: Congress.

As rest of Japan shrinks, Tokyo population count tops 13 million for the first time

Tokyo population tops 13 million for first time

TOKYO – The population of Japan’s capital – one of the biggest cities in the world – has surpassed 13 million for the first time in history, the Tokyo government said Wednesday.
Tokyo counted 13.01 million residents as of April 1, up 0.5 percent from the same month a …. Source  : As rest of Japan shrinks, Tokyo population count tops 13 million for the first time.

Thai protesters challenge military to block one-day rally in Bangkok suburb

Thai protesters test rally ban
BANGKOK – Thai protesters dared the military to stop them as they headed Wednesday to rally in a Bangkok suburb, raising concerns of more clashes after government warnings that patience was running out in a seven-week standoff that has paralyzed parts of the capital.

The Red Shirt protesters, who are demanding the …. Read the original article  : Thai protesters challenge military to block one-day rally in Bangkok suburb.

Obama to honor Dorothy Height as godmother of civil rights era at National Cathedral funeral

Obama to honor Height as godmother of civil rights
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will deliver the eulogy for the late Dorothy Height, a woman he calls the godmother of the civil rights movement.
Height will be honored Thursday during a funeral service at Washington National Cathedral for her leadership on the front lines fighting …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama to honor Dorothy Height as godmother of civil rights era at National Cathedral funeral.

Manmohan-Gilani meeting delayed by an hour

THIMPHU – The much awaited meeting between the Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan to be held here on the sidelines of the XVIth SAARC Summit, has been delayed by an hour.

Sources here said that no reason has been forthcoming as to why the meeting between the leaders …. Original article  : Manmohan-Gilani meeting delayed by an hour.

Nira Radia Phone Tap Controversy

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The tapping of the phone of Nira Radia has come under considerable fire, with even questions about it being raised in the Parliament. On Wednesday, questions about it heated up both the Houses, as the Opposition demanded to know the measures taken over the outcome of the investigation conducted by the …. Read the original article  : Nira Radia Phone Tap Controversy.

BJP defers withdrawal of support to Soren government

RANCHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Thursday deferred its withdrawal of support to the Shibu Soren-led Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government in Jharkhand.

BJP leaders did not meet Governor M.O.H. Farook at 11 a.m. as scheduled to convey the party’s decision to take back legislative support following Soren’s support to the Congress-led government on the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP defers withdrawal of support to Soren government.

US hopes for positive outcome from Indo-Pak dialogue

THIMPHU – The United States is hopeful of a positive outcome of the talks between Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, which will be taking place later today on the sidelines of the XVIth SAARC Summit.

Talking to …. Source  : US hopes for positive outcome from Indo-Pak dialogue.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Tytler acquittal

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2 p.m. Thursday with angry Akali Dal members protesting against the acquittal of Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

Midway through the question hour, Akali Dal’s Raj Mohinder Singh Majitha complained that the government was lax in prosecuting those responsible for the riots …. Read the original article  : here.

Sarkozy, Bruni hike Great Wall, wander Ming Tombs on sightseeing break during China visit

Sarkozys see Great Wall, Ming Tombs on China visit
BEIJING – French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, walked the centuries-old Great Wall and wandered the imperial Ming Tombs on a sightseeing stop Thursday during their visit to China.
Sarkozy’s trip is being billed as a return to healthy diplomatic relations between the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sarkozy, Bruni hike Great Wall, wander Ming Tombs on sightseeing break during China visit.

Gupta did not have access to highly classified material: minister

NEW DELHI – Indian diplomat Madhuri Gupta, arrested on charges of spying for Pakistani intelligence agencies, didn’t have access to highly classified material but it was too early to divulge more details, Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur said Thursday.

“I rise to inform this august house that as a result of our counter …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gupta did not have access to highly classified material: minister.

PPP to file murder case against Musharraf for Bhutto’s assassination

KARACHI – The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has said that it would file a murder case against former President General Pervez Musharraf on the basis of the UN commission’s report on former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination.

The enquiry report has indicted the then Musharraf regime for Bhutto’s death in a gun and bomb attack in … Read more : PPP to file murder case against Musharraf for Bhutto’s assassination.

Brown’s insensitive “bigot” remark could be Labour Party’s final undoing

LONDON – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has probably cost his Labour Party crucial votes by his insensitive “bigot” remark to questions asked by a 65-year-old female pensioner.

Rochsdale resident Gillian Duffy asked questions about the Labour Party’s policies on debt, education and immigration which led Brown to call her a “bigoted” woman.

According to Lance Price, … Read : Brown’s insensitive “bigot” remark could be Labour Party’s final undoing.

BJP stands firm on decision to withdraw support from Soren

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday said that it is firm on its decision to withdraw support from the Shibu Soren’s Government in Jharkhand after he voted against the cut motion.

The BJP said there is no indication from the party’s Parliamentary Board to reconsider decision on Soren.

Shibu Soren’s son Hemant Soren …. Read the original article  : BJP stands firm on decision to withdraw support from Soren.

Manmohan, Gilani take a sunset stroll in Thimphu (Thimphu Diary)

THIMPHU – They may not see eye to eye but they can certainly take a walk together. And that’s exactly what Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani did at the insistence of their SAARC colleagues at their 16th regional summit here.
Heads of states present at the … Read more : Manmohan, Gilani take a sunset stroll in Thimphu (Thimphu Diary).

Fla.’s Crist on cusp of running for US Senate as independent; observers see it as natural step

Fla. gov. on cusp of independent bid for US Senate
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The very thing that once made Gov. Charlie Crist the clear Republican choice to run for U.S. Senate is also what will perhaps make it inevitable that he will eventually buck the party to run as an independent: his embrace – … Original article on : Fla.’s Crist on cusp of running for US Senate as independent; observers see it as natural step.

Senators prepare to debate the details of financial bill after Republicans take down blockade

In financial regs debate, senators look to details

WASHINGTON – Legislation to impose sweeping new controls on financial institutions faces a test from both parties as the Senate prepares to debate the fine details of the measure.
With Republicans taking down their blockade of the Democrats’ bill, Senate officials expect about two weeks of votes on amendments …. Original source  : Senators prepare to debate the details of financial bill after Republicans take down blockade.

RJP, SP MPs walk out of Lok Sabha over Muslim quota

NEW DELHI – Samajwadi Party (SP) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MPs Thursday walked out of the Lok Sabha during question hour over the issue of greater representation to Muslims in government jobs.
RJD chief Lalu Prasad asked whether the government was planning to give proportionate representation to Muslims in various government sectors. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : RJP, SP MPs walk out of Lok Sabha over Muslim quota.

Afghans protest death of lawmaker’s brother-in-law during raid in eastern Afghanistan

Afghans protest death of lawmaker’s relative

KABUL – Hundreds of people shouting “Death to America!” protested in the streets of eastern Afghanistan on Thursday after a nighttime military raid resulted in the death of an Afghan lawmaker’s brother-in-law.
The military operation tapped into a well of resentment about raids by American and local troops that have been … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afghans protest death of lawmaker’s brother-in-law during raid in eastern Afghanistan.

An India-Pakistan thaw in scenic Thimphu?

THIMPHU – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani will meet for formal talks after nine months in the scenic Bhutanese capital Thursday in a bid to narrow the perception gap between them and explore possibilites of resuming their long-stalled dialogue and normalisation of ties.
There is no official …. Source  : An India-Pakistan thaw in scenic Thimphu?.

Arizona Immigration Law SB 1070 Sparks Protest

PHOENIX, ARIZONA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Arizona Immigration Law SB 1070, which has been passed this week by the Governor of Arizona, Jan Brewer, is being widely opposed by most of the country, and, in fact, the opposition also include some Republicans, who have so far been known to support a better control of the immigrants …. Read the original article  : Arizona Immigration Law SB 1070 Sparks Protest.

Ahmadinejad applies for US visa

New York, April 29 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad has applied for a US visa to participate in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) review conference to be held here from May 3, the American ambassador to the UN has said.

“My understanding is that as of today he has filed an application for a visa,” … Read more >>>.

Gordon’s bigot gaffe could seal poll outcome for Labour

LONDON – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s chance encounter with a 65-year-old widow, who he called a “bigoted woman”, could seal the outcome of the general elections for Labour as “the party has lost not just hers, but potentially thousands of others who will listen to what she said”.

The incident came on the eve of …. Original article  : Gordon’s bigot gaffe could seal poll outcome for Labour.

Nepal PM refuses to quit, stage set for collision

KATHMANDU – Though caught in a deepening crisis, Nepal’s embattled Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, however, refused to step down Friday as he returned from the SAARC Summit in Bhutan, heightening fears of imminent clashes between security forces and the former Maoist guerrillas.

Even as the prime minister’s office issued a statement saying Indian premier Manmohan …. Source  : Nepal PM refuses to quit, stage set for collision.

AP answers your questions on the news, from GM paying back loans to the fate of used sandbags

Ask AP: GM loans, what happens to sandbags

You see them piled up around homes, businesses, entire towns when a nearby river is rising, threatening a catastrophic flood. But what happens to all those sandbags after the floodwaters recede?
That’s one of the questions in this edition of “Ask AP,” a weekly Q&A column where AP journalists … Original source on Gaea Times at : AP answers your questions on the news, from GM paying back loans to the fate of used sandbags.

Poll puts Conservative leader Cameron on top after final British election debate

UK poll puts Cameron on top after final debate

LONDON – A new poll has declared Conservative Party leader David Cameron the winner of the final political TV debate before the British election, leaving Prime Minister Gordon Brown fighting to retain power with less than a week to campaign.
The Guardian/ICM poll, published Friday, found that 35 …. Read the original article  : here.

Leaders gather in Shanghai for lavish World Expo kickoff, amid citywide security clampdown

Sarkozy, other leaders in Shanghai for World Expo

SHANGHAI – Shanghai was counting down Friday to the opening of the 2010 World Expo, a six-month event that kicks off with a lavish riverside display of fireworks and lights expected to rival the Beijing Olympics’ launch in its extravagance.
For Shanghai, the Expo marks a stunning comeback as [..] Read the original article: here.

JMM split on choosing between BJP, Congress

RANCHI – The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), which has been threatened by withdrawal of support by its ally the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is divided on whether to stick with the BJP or go with the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA).

Chief Minister Shibu Soren has written to BJP president Nitin Gadkari apologising for voting for …. Read the original article  : JMM split on choosing between BJP, Congress.

After Thimphu talks, focus on format of India-Pakistan dialogue (News Analysis)

NEW DELHI – A day after India and Pakistan decided to resume their peace process at the level of foreign ministers without making much fuss about composite dialogue, the spotlight Friday shifted to the contours and content of the talks between the two neighbours in the future.
At the end of Thursday’s talks … Original source on Gaea Times at : After Thimphu talks, focus on format of India-Pakistan dialogue (News Analysis).

Rajya Sabha adjourned over remarks against Ambedkar

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned twice Friday over Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi’s alleged “unwarranted remarks” against Dalit icon B.R. Ambedkar, after a Congress member was not allowed to raise the issue.

Praveen Rashtrapal sought to raise the issue during zero hour, saying Modi had made “unwarranted” remarks against Ambedkar. But Deputy Chairman … Read more : Rajya Sabha adjourned over remarks against Ambedkar.

Grand celebrations chalked out for Maharashtra Divas

MUMBAI – Exhibitions, laser shows, cultural programmes and a song by melody queen Lata Mangeshkar — political parties here are going all out to celebrate 50 years of Maharashtra’s formation Saturday.

The official function will be held at the sprawling Shivaji Park in Dadar in the heart of the city. This includes an exhibition called ‘Suvarna … Read more : Grand celebrations chalked out for Maharashtra Divas.

EU’s Barroso says China still confident in euro as negotiators work toward Greek bailout deal

EU chief says China still has confidence in euro

BEIJING – The European Commission president said Friday that China still has confidence in the euro, despite a plunge in the European currency as negotiators work toward a financial bailout for Greece.
“I don’t think China is lacking confidence in the European Union or the euro,” Jose Manuel … Read more »»».

AP source: As part of Supreme Court search, Obama talks to appeals court judge from Montana

AP source: Obama talks to judge about high court
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has accelerated his search for his next Supreme Court nominee, meeting in the Oval Office with one of the candidates, federal judge Sidney Thomas of Montana, a person familiar with the conversation says.
Obama’s meeting with Thomas …. Read the original article  : AP source: As part of Supreme Court search, Obama talks to appeals court judge from Montana.

With no party behind him, Fla. Gov. Crist relies on ‘the people’ in independent run for Senate

Crist relies on the people, not GOP, in Senate bid
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Charlie Crist dubbed himself “The People’s Governor” as he brought a bipartisan spirit to Tallahassee.
Now that partisanship is at a peak, he wants to be “The People’s Senator,” vowing to change his registration to no party affiliation and … Read more >>.

Crist’s GOP defection in Florida Senate race gives Democrats reason for optimism

Crist’s defection could be gift to Democrats
WASHINGTON – The Republican infighting over Florida’s Senate seat that drove Gov. Charlie Crist to ditch the GOP is giving an underdog Democrat a realistic shot at pulling off an upset in the fall.
Democratic Rep. Kendrick Meek, who appeared headed to a lopsided loss in November, suddenly …. Original article  : Crist’s GOP defection in Florida Senate race gives Democrats reason for optimism.

Brit polls indicates Tory leader Cameron winning final debate

LONDON – Polls published immediately after the third and final debate involving Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Conservative Party leader David Cameron and Liberal Democratic Party leader Nick Clegg suggest Cameron is the winner.

YouGov puts Cameron on 41 percent, Clegg on 32 percent and Brown …. Read the original article  : here.

Gordon Brown snubbed by woman in `bigot’ row

LONDON – A British woman called a bigot by Prime Minister Gordon Brown snubbed his request to shake hands with her in front of the cameras, her nephew said.

Brown was visiting Rochdale when Gillian Duffy called out to him. As part of the new “real voters” strategy, she was ushered by an aide to speak … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gordon Brown snubbed by woman in `bigot’ row.

Magazine director joins search for journalists after ambush of activist convoy in Mexico

Rescue mission under way for Mexican journalists

OAXACA, Mexico – Police and rescuers failed to find two journalists stranded for a third day among feuding militants in a remote village after their caravan of Mexican and European rights activists was caught in a deadly ambush.
Authorities struggled to locate the missing journalists Thursday near the remote Triqui … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Magazine director joins search for journalists after ambush of activist convoy in Mexico.

BJP withholds decision to pull out of Jharkhand government

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Friday said that its decision to withdraw support to the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government in Jharkhand was on hold for the moment.

The BJP would hold talks with alliance partners the JMM, Janata Dal-United (JD-U) and All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) as well as the BJP state … Read more »».

EU official: China agrees to discuss targeted sanctions on Iran to increase pressure

EU official: China eyes targeted sanctions on Iran

BEIJING – The European Union’s foreign affairs chief said Friday that China is willing to discuss sanctions on Iran as long as they are carefully targeted and bolster efforts to curb the Iranian nuclear program.
EU Foreign Affairs High Representative Catherine Ashton said her discussions with Chinese Premier Wen …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : EU official: China agrees to discuss targeted sanctions on Iran to increase pressure.

US must reassure Pakistan about India, says US official

WASHINGTON – With Pakistan’s traditional defence posture still geared to conventional military conflict with India and not counterinsurgency, a top Pentagon official says the US needs to reassure an Islamabad wary about growing India-US relations.

“Although extremist attacks have led to the repositioning of substantial Pakistani forces, Pakistan’s strategic concerns about India remain pre-eminent,” Michele …. Original article  : US must reassure Pakistan about India, says US official.

Hawaii House approves civil unions for same-sex couples; bill heads to governor

Hawaii lawmakers OK civil unions, send bill to gov

HONOLULU – Hawaii is a step closer to joining a small group of other states in allowing same-sex civil unions.
In a move that still needs the governor’s signature to become law, the House of Representatives Thursday night approved a measure that has drawn some of the state’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hawaii House approves civil unions for same-sex couples; bill heads to governor.

Major Bangkok hospital evacuates patients after break-in by Thai anti-government protesters

Thai protesters storm major hospital in Bangkok

BANGKOK – A major hospital in the Thai capital evacuated patients and suspended all but emergency surgery Friday after anti-government protesters who occupy a nearby zone stormed in to hunt for security forces they suspected were positioned there.
A group of so-called Red Shirts broke into Chulalongkorn Hospital late Thursday …. Source  : Major Bangkok hospital evacuates patients after break-in by Thai anti-government protesters.