Akshardham case: Gujarat High Court upholds death sentence

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court on Tuesday upheld the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) court’s verdict awarding death sentence to three accused in the 2002 Akashardham terror attack.

A two-member division bench of Justices RM Doshit and KM Thakar upheld the sentence by a POTA court. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Woman sues Google for ‘misleading’ her on Google Maps!

MELBOURNE – Google has been slapped with a lawsuit over incorrect directions on Google Maps by a Los Angeles woman for giving her “unsafe” directions while travelling interstate.

Lauren Rosenberg used her BlackBerry to ask Google Maps for walking directions to Prospector Avenue from Daly Street.

But the directions by Google Maps led her to a busy …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

CAPITAL CULTURE: ‘West Wing Week’ videos: a not-quite-viral web stroll through Obama’s week

CAPITAL CULTURE: ‘West Wing Week,’ not quite viral
WASHINGTON – Moments before Elena Kagan is introduced to the nation as President Barack Obama’s choice for the Supreme Court, the president turns to her and offers a mock-helpful suggestion: “Just don’t trip. That’ll be really embarrassing.” Kagan chuckles and shoots back playfully, “It’s very …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : CAPITAL CULTURE: ‘West Wing Week’ videos: a not-quite-viral web stroll through Obama’s week.

Spanish cyclist Valverde gets global ban for doping after 4-year pursuit by cycling body

Spanish cyclist Valverde gets 2-year doping ban

LAUSANNE, Switzerland – Spanish cyclist Alejandro Valverde received a global two-year ban Monday for his connection to a blood-doping ring, but was allowed to keep his 2009 Spanish Vuelta victory.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in favor of the International Cycling Union and World Anti-Doping Agency, which wanted … Original article on : Spanish cyclist Valverde gets global ban for doping after 4-year pursuit by cycling body.

Scrap POSCO project, says Orissa’s fact-finding team

MUMBAI – A six-member fact finding team, headed by Justice (retd) Hosbert Suresh of the Bombay High Court, Monday demanded the immediate withdrawal of the proposed POSCO project in Orissa’s Jagatsinghpur district.

Voicing strong opposition to police’s use of force and filing of false cases against peaceful protesters in the district May 15, Justice Suresh … Read more »».

Gujarat court upholds voting right of 10 farm societies

GANDHINAGAR – Representatives of Gujarat’s 10 agriculturist cooperative societies have cast their votes for a district agriculture produce markets committee (APMC) after the Gujarat High Court Monday upheld their right to do so.

The representatives of the societies are part of the APMC as per the APMC Act and shall be allowed to cast their votes, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rights group appeals for African detainees’ release

NEW DELHI – Civil rights group, People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), Monday appealed to the Indian government to release a dozen Africans held in detention centre in Delhi. The detainees have threatened to go on hunger strike from June 1.

The 12 African languishing in a foreigners’ detention centre in the Indian capital, had written … Read more >>>.

Congress alleges victimisation of Dalits in Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR – Gujarat Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil Monday charged Chief Minister Narendra Modi of victimising Dalits who oppose his policies against the interest of the socially marginalised people.

“Cases are being filed against Gujarat Dalit leaders at the instance of the chief minister,” said Gohil, who is also the leader of opposition in the state assembly. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Congress alleges victimisation of Dalits in Gujarat.

Navy employee held for spying sent to judicial custody

NEW DELHI – An Indian Navy employee arrested by Delhi Police on espionage charges was Monday sent to 14-day judicial custody by a city court.

Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Kaveri Baweja asked Tihar Jail authorities to present Chand Kumar Prasad, 24, in court June 13.
He was presented in the court Monday after five days of custodial … Original source on Gaea Times at : Navy employee held for spying sent to judicial custody.

China issues new rules banning evidence obtained through torture

China bans court evidence obtained by torture

BEIJING – China has issued new rules saying evidence obtained through torture and threats cannot be used in criminal prosecutions and said such evidence would be thrown out in death penalty cases that are under appeal.
The new regulations – posted on the central government’s website Sunday – make it [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Banning Tintin is like book burning’

LONDON – Banning Tintin in the Congo for racism is a form of “book burning”, said lawyers acting for the estate of Herge- the Belgian cartoon hero’s creator.

Belgium’s courts are investigating whether Tintin’s 1931 Congolese adventures, when the country was a Belgian …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Banning Tintin is like book burning’.

Indian-origin aid worker on ship attacked by Israel

LONDON – An Indian-origin British aid worker is on the ship that was part of the Gaza-bound flotilla attacked by Israel. His family, anxiously waiting for news about his whereabouts, say it was as though their worst nightmares were coming true.

Hours before the troops moved in Monday, Ismail Adam Patel, an optician based in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian-origin aid worker on ship attacked by Israel.

Decision on Rathore bail plea Thursday

CHANDIGARH – The Punjab and Haryana High Court Wednesday reserved for Thursday its decision on the bail plea by former Haryana police chief S.P.S. Rathore, who has been convicted and sent to jail for molesting teenager Ruchika Girhotra.

Rathore was served an 18-month sentence May 25 by a district and sessions court here. His wife and … Read more >>.

Protect Dalit victims, apex court tells Haryana

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday said it was incumbent upon the Haryana government to provide protection to the victims of caste violence in Mirchpur village in Hisar district.

The apex court bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and C.K. Prasad said the failure to protect them would be viewed seriously.
The court also directed …. Source  : Protect Dalit victims, apex court tells Haryana.

Walking the ramp for Tibet, their lost homeland

DHARAMSALA – They will never make it to a global beauty pageant. But four exiled Tibetan women will still sashay down the ramp here as a “peaceful protest” against Chinese repression and to raise awareness about Tibet’s cause.

The ninth edition of the Miss Tibet pageant will be held June 4-6 at McLeodganj – near Dharamsala, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Provide protection to Dalit victims, apex court tells Haryana

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday said it was incumbent upon the Haryana government to provide protection to the victims of caste violence in Mirchpur village in Hisar district.

The apex court bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and C.K. Prasad said the failure to provide protection would be viewed seriously.
The Dalits (Balmikis) of Mirchpur …. Source  : Provide protection to Dalit victims, apex court tells Haryana.

Whites not allowed – for a job in Britain

LONDON – Whites seem to have been barred from applying for a job in a British city, with a job seeker saying he was excluded for “being white”.

Bristol City Council has been accused of discrimination as whites were not allowed from applying for two 18,000 pounds a year jobs, Daily Mail reported Wednesday.
The … Original article on : Whites not allowed – for a job in Britain.

Ex-Detroit mayor’s ex-girlfriend-aide among several dropped from slain stripper’s civil suit

Several dropped from Detroit slain stripper’s suit

DETROIT – The one-time aide and former lover of ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and the city’s ex-police chief have been dropped from a lawsuit in the fatal shooting of a stripper.
Norman Yatooma is the lawyer for the family of stripper Tamara Greene, who danced as “Strawberry.” Yatooma says ex-chief … Read more >>>.

Woman who says she was hit by car in Utah claims Google provided unsafe walking directions

Woman sues Google over Utah walking directions

SALT LAKE CITY – A pedestrian who says she was injured by a motorist while following an online walking route has filed a lawsuit claiming Google Inc. supplied unsafe directions.
Lauren Rosenberg filed a lawsuit seeking more than $100,000 on Thursday in U.S. District Court in Utah. It also names … Original article on : Woman who says she was hit by car in Utah claims Google provided unsafe walking directions.

Woman hit by car in Utah sues Google, claiming it provided unsafe walking directions

Pedestrian sues Google over Utah directions

PARK CITY, Utah – A woman who says she relied on Google for walking directions in Utah that got her hit on a major roadway has filed a lawsuit against the Internet company claiming it supplied unsafe directions.
Lauren Rosenberg filed the $100,000 lawsuit Thursday in U.S. District Court in Utah. [..] Read the original article: here.

Not guilty plea entered for Mass. man accused of trying to swap infant daughter for cocaine

Man accused of trying to swap baby for cocaine

CHICOPEE, Mass. – A not guilty plea has been entered for a man accused of offering to trade his 3-month-old daughter for crack cocaine.
Matthew Brace of Northampton was arraigned Tuesday in Chicopee District Court on a charge of reckless endangerment of a child.
Prosecutors say the 24-year-old Brace … Original source on Gaea Times at : Not guilty plea entered for Mass. man accused of trying to swap infant daughter for cocaine.

Sindh High Court directs PTA to block obscene material on YouTube

KARACHI – The Sindh High Court (SHC) has asked the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to ensure that no obscene material is uploaded on the video sharing website-YouTube from Pakistan.

Hearing a petition filed against the National Response Centre for Cyber Crimes and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for failing to take necessary action against a …. Read the original article  : here.

Chinese orphans to get 600 yuan as allowance

BEIJING – Orphans and convicts’ children in China will now receive at least 600 yuan ($88) each month as allowance till they turn 18 under a government scheme to ensure they are not left behind in the country’s economic march.

Over 720,000 children across the country will benefit from the scheme, Wang Zhenyao, director of the … Original article on : Chinese orphans to get 600 yuan as allowance.

Aid activists may have Al-Qaeda link: Israel

Jerusalem, June 3 (IANS/AKI) Israel has said about 40 of the activists arrested in the attack on the Gaza-bound aid flotilla may have had links to Al-Qaeda.

According to the Israeli defence forces (IDF), a special meeting of the security cabinet late Tuesday heard that a group of 40 people on board the Mavi Marmara [..] Read the original article: here.

Two million child labourers in EU, says rights NGO

LONDON – Over two million children under the age of 15 are salaried workers in the European Union (EU) including developed countries like Holland, Denmark and France, an international child rights organisation has alleged.

Children who work is one of the most extended phenomena in all of central and eastern Europe, while poverty forces the young … Original article on : Two million child labourers in EU, says rights NGO.

Planes with nine bodies, hundreds of activists leave Israel

TEL AVIV – Israel early Thursday completed the deportation of hundreds of foreign nationals from its Ben-Gurion International Airport, the country’s foreign ministry announced.

The bodies of the nine people who were killed in early Monday’s forceful interception in mid-sea of six ships bound for Gaza were also on board the planes that took off from … Read more »»».

Alaska Supreme Court says abortion initiative can appear on August ballot

Court says abortion initiative can be on AK ballot

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The Alaska Supreme Court has ruled an initiative requiring parental notification for minors seeking an abortion will be on the August primary ballot.
Planned Parenthood had argued key information was withheld from the more than 36,000 voters who signed the initiative petition, including the fact …. Source  : Alaska Supreme Court says abortion initiative can appear on August ballot.

Petco settles lawsuit with 5 counties over customer charges, care of animals for sale

Petco and 5 counties settle consumer lawsuit

LOS ANGELES – Prosecutors in five California counties say Petco Animal Supplies Inc. has agreed to pay $1.75 million to settle a lawsuit alleging the company overcharged customers and improperly cared for animals it offered for sale.
Petco doesn’t admit liability in an agreement a San Diego judge signed Wednesday. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Petco settles lawsuit with 5 counties over customer charges, care of animals for sale.

Closings begin in NYC trial to decide whether man broke Iran trade embargo

Closings begin in Iran trade embargo trial in NYC

NEW YORK – Closing arguments have begun in a trial in New York that will decide whether a U.S.-educated Iranian-born man moved money illegally between Iran and the U.S.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danya Perry accused Mahmoud Reza Banki (MAH’-mood REEZ’-ah BAHN’-kee) at the start of her closing argument …. Original article  : Closings begin in NYC trial to decide whether man broke Iran trade embargo.

Lebanese detainees captured in flotilla raid arrive in Lebanon

BEIRUT – Two journalists who were among the five Lebanese detainees captured during the Israeli raid on a flotilla carrying aid bound for the Gaza Strip, were released late Wednesday at the Israeli-Lebanese border.

The two journalists from the Doha-based television television network Al-Jazeera, Abbas Nasser and Andre abi Khalil, arrived at the Naqoura border crossing [..] Read the original article: here.

Court stays panel on Delhi’s mobile phone towers

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday stayed a single bench order asking the central government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to form a panel to study health risks caused by mobile phone towers.

Hearing an appeal filed by the MCD against the single bench order of May 31, a division bench … Read : Court stays panel on Delhi’s mobile phone towers.

Verdict on Rathore’s petition deferred till June 29

CHANDIGARH – Former Haryana DGP SPS Rathore on Friday failed to get any relief from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which deferred the prouncement of the verdict on his revision petition in the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case to June 29. …. Read the original article  : Verdict on Rathore’s petition deferred till June 29.

Legal notice can be sent via Facebook too

MELBOURNE – Online social networking site Facebook can also be used to serve legal notices on those evading court hearing, an Australian judge has ruled.

An Adelaide court ordered that Facebook be used for sending legal documents on an elusive alleged father involved in a child support dispute.
The federal magistrate, Stewart Brown, said the case … Read more »».

Citibank in the dock for firing ‘distracting’ woman

NEW YORK – Citibank is facing an unusual lawsuit in which a woman executive says she was fired last year because her bosses thought she was “too distracting” for male colleagues and supervisors.

“She was punished because her male bosses couldn’t handle their libidos,” alleges the lawsuit by Debrahlee Lorenzana, 33, against CEO Vikram Pandit’s … Read : Citibank in the dock for firing ‘distracting’ woman.

1,400 prisoners released in China

BEIJING – Around 1,400 prisoners have been released from jail on medical grounds, before their sentences were over in China’s Jiangxi province, an official said.

Of the 1,400 prisoners released Thursday, 632 are elderly, 160 are handicapped and 604 are severely ill, Ma Chengzu, director of the the judicial department of Jiangxi province was quoted as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 1,400 prisoners released in China.

David Carradine’s widow files wrongful death lawsuit against film company in Los Angeles

Carradine’s widow files wrongful death suit in LA

LOS ANGELES – David Carradine’s widow filed a wrongful death lawsuit Thursday against a French company handling the actor’s last film, claiming it failed to provide proper services to protect him.
The lawsuit is against MK2 S.A., a French company responsible for the production of the movie “Stretch.”
The lawsuit … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : David Carradine’s widow files wrongful death lawsuit against film company in Los Angeles.

Criminal case says Texas man communicated with fugitive al-Qaida cleric Anwar al-Awlaki

Case alleges Texas man communicated with al-Awlaki

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department alleged Thursday in a new terrorism case that a Texas man communicated with the fugitive al-Qaida cleric whose name surfaced in the shootings at Fort Hood.
Court documents say that Barry Walter Bujol of Hempstead, Texas, had been communicating via e-mail with Anwar al-Awlaki. He …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Criminal case says Texas man communicated with fugitive al-Qaida cleric Anwar al-Awlaki.

Court-appointed doctors say mother of missing Arizona baby is incompetent to stand trial

Doctors say Arizona mother incompetent for trial

TEMPE, Ariz. – Two court-appointed doctors say the mother of a missing Arizona baby who’s been missing since December is incompetent to stand trial.
A Maricopa County judge is expected to make a ruling on the doctors’ report soon that could excuse 23-year-old Elizabeth Johnson from participating in further court …. Original source  : Court-appointed doctors say mother of missing Arizona baby is incompetent to stand trial.

Bosnian Serb who allegedly hid service in notorious army brigade loses citizenship, leaves US

Bosnian Serb soldier loses citizenship, leaves US

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department says a man who served in a Bosnian Serb Army brigade containing units that allegedly engaged in war crimes has left the United States after a judge ordered that he be stripped of his naturalized citizenship.
According to court records in his case, Jadranko Gostic …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Heat guard Dwyane Wade awarded temporary custody of sons

Wade given temporary custody of sons
MIAMI – Dwyane Wade now has temporary custody of his two sons, the second significant legal development of the week for the Miami Heat star.

Wade was awarded “physical possession” of the boys on Wednesday by a judge in Chicago. The ruling came one day after the 2006 NBA finals MVP [..] Read the original article: here.

Abdullah rules out special assembly session

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has ruled out convening a special assembly session to demand the repealing of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and discuss the killing of three men in a staged shootout in Nadihal village April 30.

Abdullah late Friday wrote to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba … Read more »».

Lawyer: Executor named in Gary Coleman’s will has power over funeral; parents end burial plans

Gary Coleman had a will; parents drop burial plans

SALT LAKE CITY – Gary Coleman’s estranged parents abandoned their effort to bury him in his native Illinois Friday after a Utah attorney revealed the actor named an executor in a 1999 will.
“Of course it’s disappointing. We’d be inhuman if it wasn’t, but we’re not up for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kagan documents include mysterious reference to ‘contributors’ and ‘coffee folks’

Kagan documents include mysterious reference
WASHINGTON – Buried deep among the thousands of pages of memos and notes from Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan’s days in the Clinton White House is an intriguing and mysterious scrawl.
“Health Care Com’n? lots of contributors? coffee folks?” says the note, written next to the words “Ideas generally other.” … Read more »»».

Documents: Chinese drywall supplier agreed not to discuss possible smell, health risks

Docs: Drywall supplier agreed not to discuss risks

MIAMI – A South Florida construction supplier that purchased faulty Chinese drywall made an agreement with the manufacturer not to make any statements regarding the plasterboard’s possible smell or health risks, according to court documents released in a class action suit Friday.
The documents, unsealed Friday and provided to … Read more : Documents: Chinese drywall supplier agreed not to discuss possible smell, health risks.

Turkey blocks Google services

ISTANBUL – Turkey has indefinitely shut off access to several Google services including Google Docs.

Turkey’s Telecommunications Communication Presidency released an official statement Friday, saying it has blocked access to some Google IP (Internet Protocol) addresses “because of legal reasons”, Xinhua reported.
Some Google applications may be completely inaccessible or take a long time to load, …. Source  : Turkey blocks Google services.

LA Dodgers say they’ve resolved lawsuit against comedian Jon Lovitz over 2010 season tickets

Dodgers say lawsuit against Jon Lovitz resolved

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers say they’ve resolved a dispute with comedian and actor Jon Lovitz over nearly $100,000 in unpaid tickets.
The Dodgers sued Lovitz and others last month over nonpayment for the 2010 season seats, which are located behind home plate. In a statement released Friday, …. Read the original article  : here.

Cuban militant set to face perjury, obstruction charges in West Texas trial

Trial for Cuban militant set for Jan. 11
EL PASO, Texas – The trial of anti-Castro Cuban militant Luis Posada Carriles has been set to begin in January.

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Cardone has scheduled the trial in El Paso for Jan. 11. The former CIA operative faces federal charges of perjury, obstruction and naturalization fraud.
Posada has …. Original article  : Cuban militant set to face perjury, obstruction charges in West Texas trial.

Fewer kids in foster care: Some states make major strides to keep more families together

Reforms help states cut foster-care populations

NEW YORK – No single youngster can be the poster child for America’s foster care system, with its mix of happy endings and heartache. Yet Tatiana Fowler’s smile, as she embraces the woman who adopted her, gives a hint at the groundswell of change that is altering that mix for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fewer kids in foster care: Some states make major strides to keep more families together.

Stay on panel for Delhi’s mobile phone towers

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday stayed a single bench order asking the central government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to form a panel to study health risks caused by mobile phone towers.

Hearing an appeal filed by the MCD against the single bench order of May 31, a division bench of …. Source  : Stay on panel for Delhi’s mobile phone towers.

Give alternate plot or acquire land, apex court to government

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday asked the defence ministry to consider giving an alternate plot to a co-operative housing society in Secunderabad cantonment in lieu of land which it had allegedly encroached to construct 300 flats for army personnel.

The apex court’s vacation bench of Justice Deepak Verma and Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan said that …. Source article  : Give alternate plot or acquire land, apex court to government.

High courts’ bid to curb litigation worries government

NEW DELHI – High courts may be referring inter-governmental disputes to central panels for resolution in order to reduce litigation, but this is giving rise to constitutional problems, says the union law ministry.

“Instances have come to the notice of the cabinet secretariat where some of the high courts have given instructions to its …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

After GMR, Maoists oppose mega India-Nepal power project

KATHMANDU – After bringing to a halt work on a medium-sized hydropower project by Indian infrastructure company GMR’s joint venture in Nepal, the opposition Maoist party is now threatening a mega project signed between the governments of India and Nepal.

The Sapta Kosi Multipurpose Project, which is expected to generate 3,300 MW of hydropower as well … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : After GMR, Maoists oppose mega India-Nepal power project.

Egypt to strip citizenship of men marrying Israeli women

CAIRO – An Egyptian court has ruled that men who marry Israeli women will be stripped of their citizenship, a media report said.

The State Council’s Supreme Administrative Court Saturday upheld a ruling issued by a first instance administrative court on dropping the Egyptian nationality from men who are married to Israeli women, Xinhua reported citing … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egypt to strip citizenship of men marrying Israeli women.

Bangladesh lifts ban on Facebook

DHAKA – Authorities in Bangladesh have lifted a ban on popular social networking website Facebook, more than a week after the government temporarily restricted access to the site, officials said.

Mango Telecom Services, a private internet service provider, Saturday reopened the site for Bangladeshi users as directed by telecom regulators, Mir Masud Kabir, the managing director …. Read the original article  : Bangladesh lifts ban on Facebook.

Utah Jazz fans claim new seating policy causes VIP seats to drop in value

Utah Jazz fans sue over new seating policy

SALT LAKE CITY – A group of well-heeled Utah Jazz fans has sued the team’s corporate parent, claiming a new seating policy has caused their VIP seats to plummet in value.
Members of the Jazz 100 Club, in their complaint filed Friday in 3rd District Court, are seeking more …. Read the original article  : Utah Jazz fans claim new seating policy causes VIP seats to drop in value.

Women’s quota bill campaign reaches Aligarh

ALIGARH – The ‘Reservation Express’ campaign which seeks to mobilise support for the women’s quota bill reached Aligarh Saturday on its way to the national capital.

“It was the Aligarh Muslim University that reserved seats for women in the employees union for the first time in India,” eminent historian Irfan Habib said, addressing a group …. Original source  : Women’s quota bill campaign reaches Aligarh.

Egyptian court upholds decision to strip citizenship from Egyptians married to Israeli women

Egyptians married to Israelis to lose citizenship

CAIRO – An Egyptian appeals court has upheld a ruling that orders the country’s Interior Ministry to strip the citizenship from Egyptians married to Israeli women.
The Supreme Administrative Court said that each case should be judged on an individual basis by the Cabinet. The court said the ministry should … Read more »».

Families of Indians held captives in Egypt to seek High Court’s help for release

MADURAI – Families of 30 men, hailing from Tamil Nadu have decided to file a petition in the Madras High Court to ensure their rescue in Egypt where they have allegedly been keep in illegal captivity and made to work as bonded labourers.

Lured by the …. Source  : Families of Indians held captives in Egypt to seek High Court’s help for release.

3,500 Palestinians cross Egypt’s border to reach Gaza

RAFAH – Around 3,500 Palestinians crossed Egypt’s border with the Gaza Strip since Egypt opened it last Tuesday after Israel’s attack on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, a security source said Saturday.

Students who finished their studies in Egypt and abroad crossed back into Gaza, along with ill Palestinians who needed to go to Egypt for medical …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3,500 Palestinians cross Egypt’s border to reach Gaza.

Compensation for two women who delivered on the streets

NEW DELHI – Taking serious note of the fact that reproductive rights of women were still not guaranteed in spite of various schemes being in place, the Delhi High Court has awarded compensation to two women who gave birth on the streets because of the government’s negligence.

Justice S. Muralidhar Friday awarded compensation of Rs.240,000 to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Compensation for two women who delivered on the streets.

Tenzin Norzom is Miss Tibet

DHARAMSALA – Promising to remain committed to the Tibetan cause, 23-year-old Tenzin Norzom has won the Kingfisher Miss Tibet Pageant 2010 at McLeodganj near this Himachal Pradesh hill town, an event organiser said Monday.

“Tenzin Norzom was crowned Miss Tibet during the ninth edition of the pageant that concluded last (Sunday) night,” Lobsang Wangyal told IANS … Read more »».

Blagojevich’s lawyers face crucial final decisions on jury before real drama begins

Blagojevich lawyers face decision time on jury
CHICAGO – Rod Blagojevich’s lawyers will be making their final, crucial jury decisions before the real drama begins in the former governor’s racketeering and fraud trial.
Judge James B. Zagel was expected to question about 30 more jurors Monday, after quizzing 59 potential jurors in two days and … Original article on : Blagojevich’s lawyers face crucial final decisions on jury before real drama begins.

Canada to act tough against ‘ghost’ immigration agents

TORONTO – “Ghost” immigration consultants, including India-based agents, involved in duping people wishing to immigrate to Canada will face tough action with the introduction of a new legislation in the Canadian parliament this week.

Under the new law, tougher penalties will be imposed against those running unlicensed immigration services.
Canada has also urged India and other … Original source on Gaea Times at : Canada to act tough against ‘ghost’ immigration agents.

Prohibitory orders ahead of Bhopal gas verdict Monday

BHOPAL – Orders prohibiting gathering of four or more people have been clamped around the premises of the Bhopal district court, which will pronounce judgment in the Bhopal gas tragedy case Monday, officials said Sunday.

“The prohibitory orders – restricting gathering of more than four people at a place – would be in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prohibitory orders ahead of Bhopal gas verdict Monday.

US defense chief courts the put-out president of Azerbaijan, key supply hub for Afghan war

Gates courts put-out Azerbaijan, a key Afghan hub
BAKU, Azerbaijan – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates tried on Sunday to soothe the put-off president of this former Soviet republic that helps move supplies and soldiers to the U.S.-led war in landlocked Afghanistan.
Tens of thousands of war-related flights have crossed over Azerbaijan since …. Original article  : US defense chief courts the put-out president of Azerbaijan, key supply hub for Afghan war.

Immigration, security issues, Honduras coup are top topics for Clinton in Latin America

Crowded agenda awaits Clinton in Latin America

WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton travels to Latin America and the Caribbean with a crowded agenda awaiting.
Among the issues are lingering tensions over last year’s coup in Honduras, as well as U.S. immigration policy and Arizona’s new immigration law. Other topics include security issues and concerns …. Source  : Immigration, security issues, Honduras coup are top topics for Clinton in Latin America.

Bhopal gas tragedy victims want accused hanged

BHOPAL – Over 25 years after the Bhopal gas tragedy when the verdict in the case is to be pronounced Monday, the victims want capital punishment for the accused but are not too hopeful of getting full justice.

They feel the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has already “weakened” the case.
The accused in the case …. Source article  : Bhopal gas tragedy victims want accused hanged.

Lahore High Court directs Govt. to use all means to defend terror suspect Dr.Aafia

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) has directed the federal government to use all its diplomatic means to defend Aafia Siddiqui, who is currently in detention in the US for having alleged links with Al Qaeda.

LHC Justice Ijaz Ahmad Chaudhry also asked the Foreign Office …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

No scope of fundamental change in Pak SC’s NRO verdict: Experts

ISLAMABAD – Several Pakistani legal experts believe that despite the government’s fight for reversing the Supreme Court’s December 16 judgment on the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) there is no scope of any fundamental change.

Experts said that if the judicial past is any guide, it is not possible.

“The grounds for the review are always …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : No scope of fundamental change in Pak SC’s NRO verdict: Experts.

Supermodel joins Assam women to create lifestyle products

NEW DELHI – Former supermodel and internationally renowned fashion designer Bibi Russell has joined hands with ethnic Bodo women of Assam to train them in modern design techniques and help them weave a new line of lifestyle products and market them as a premium label.

The women, who are a part of Weaving Destination project led …. Read the original article  : Supermodel joins Assam women to create lifestyle products.

National Reconciliation Ordinance is a valid law, Pak Govt tells SC

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Government has informed the Supreme Court that the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) is a valid law laid down under Article 89 of the Constitution.

In its reply seeking review of the apex court’s December 16, 2009 verdict against the NRO, government’s lawyer Kamal Azfar also contended that the NRO had the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Spurt in Indian applications for British visas, delays possible

LONDON – A heavy rush for visas is causing processing delays at the British High Commission in New Delhi, according to officials of the UK Border Agency.

The last few weeks has seen a major increase in the number of visa applications from Indians wanting to visit Britain. Applicants are facing waits of up to five … Read more »».

Hyundai Motor India strike enters second day

CHENNAI – The strike by workers at the Hyundai Motor India Ltd plant near here to demand the reinstatement of 67 dismissed colleagues and recognition of their union continued for the second day Tuesday.

“Our members are continuing their sit-in strike since Sunday midnight. Many of them have not taken food since Sunday night. One worker …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hyundai Motor India strike enters second day.

US rules out new probe in Bhopal gas leak tragedy

WASHINGTON – The United States has ruled out reopening any new inquiry against Union Carbide after an Indian court’s verdict in the 1984 Bhopal gas leak that killed over 3,000 people, hoping it would bring closure to the probe into the tragedy.

“Obviously this was one of the greatest industrial tragedies and industrial accidents in human … Original source on Gaea Times at : US rules out new probe in Bhopal gas leak tragedy.

California judge in Dole-banana workers case says she and others have been threatened

LA judge in banana workers case cites threats

LOS ANGELES – A California judge says there have been threats against her and witnesses in connection with lawsuits claiming Nicaraguan workers on Dole Foods banana plantations were harmed by pesticides.
Judge Victoria Chaney met with lawyers privately in Los Angeles on Monday concerning new claims of witness tampering …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : California judge in Dole-banana workers case says she and others have been threatened.

Justice Rao takes charge as chairperson of National Commission for Backward Classes

NEW DELHI – Former Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice (Retd.) Makani Narayan Rao on Monday took charge as chairperson of National Commission for Backward Classes.

The Central Government had appointed Justice Rao to the post on May 31.

Justice M.N. Rao, …. Read the original article  : Justice Rao takes charge as chairperson of National Commission for Backward Classes.

Fewer immigrants arrive in Italy in 2009

Rome, June 7 (IANS/AKI) The number of immigrants arriving in Italy fell in 2009 even though the total population rose to above 60 million people, the official statistics agency Istat said.

It said immigrants comprised 0.5 percent of the population, which totalled 60.34 million people.
Foreign arrivals comprised seven percent of the Italian population and …. Source article  : Fewer immigrants arrive in Italy in 2009.

Repeal special powers of armed forces, PDP asks PM

SRINAGAR – The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Monday urged Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to repeal the special legal powers the armed forces have in Jammu and Kashmir to fight terrorism.

A delegation of the PDP led by president Mehbooba Mufti called on the prime minister here on the first day of Manmohan Singh’s two-day visit … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Repeal special powers of armed forces, PDP asks PM.

Court refuses to shield Metro premises from sealing

NEW DELHI – A day after the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) sealed seven commercial premises at a Delhi Metro station for illegal construction, the Delhi High Court Wednesday declined to restrain the civic agency from taking action.

Filing an urgent application, the Metro said that the action taken by the MCD at Inderlok station was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Court refuses to shield Metro premises from sealing.

George Fernandes’ brothers plead for early hearing

NEW DELHI – Brothers of former defence minister George Fernandes Wednesday moved the Delhi High Court pleading for an early hearing of the custody case due to the deteriorating health of the veteran leader.

Moving an urgent application, Richard Fernandes, a brother of the socialist leader, contended that the matter should be heard on priority basis … Read more »»».

India to build houses for Sri Lanka’s displaced Tamils

NEW DELHI – With over 50,000 displaced Tamil civilians remaining in relief camps in Sri Lanka, India Wednesday announced a major initiative to build 50,000 houses for what the government calls internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the war-ravaged northern and eastern provinces of the island nation.

After wide-ranging discussions between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India to build houses for Sri Lanka’s displaced Tamils.

NGO launches action week before child labour day

NEW DELHI – Child rights organisation, Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA), Wednesday said they have launched an India Action Week 2010 during which raids are being conducted in factories, eateries and other places and child labourers are being rescued.

It will culminate Friday, which will be observed as World Day Against Child Labour.
“While we routinely …. Source  : NGO launches action week before child labour day.

Court orders payment of perks to Delhi consumer fora heads

NEW DELHI – Heads of eight district consumer fora in the capital have won a legal battle on perks as the Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi government to pay for their power and transport expenses.

Justice S. Muralidhar told the government to reimburse all bills pertaining to water, electricity and petrol expenses of all …. Read the original article  : here.

Delhi street vendors to move court against eviction

NEW DELHI – Street vendors in the capital plan to approach the Supreme Court against the Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s (MCD) eviction drive targeted at illegal hawkers ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

The National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI), an association of street vendors, which has over 300,000 members in 20 states, accused the …. Read the original article  : Delhi street vendors to move court against eviction.

Aim for the goal, end child labour, says ILO

GENEVA – The International Labour Organisation (ILO) Wednesday said that countries should take inspiration from the momentum and pulsating energy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and aim for the goal of eliminating child labour by 2016.

World Day Against Child Labour is observed June 12.
“While billions are caught up in the excitement of …. Source article  : Aim for the goal, end child labour, says ILO.

Britain to deport two Indian illegal immigrants

LEICESTER – Two Indian illegal immigrants who spent months on a roadside pavement here are now awaiting deportation, though the case of one of them is still caught in an official wrangle.

Sarbjit Singh, 32, is ready to be sent home shortly after the UK Border Agency secured an agreement with the Indian authorities for his … Read : Britain to deport two Indian illegal immigrants.

Forced retirement may be dropped as penalty for officials

NEW DELHI – Compulsory retirement may no longer be imposed as a penalty on erring bureaucrats and corrupt officials, if a proposal by the government comes through.

The ministry for personnel, public grievances and training has proposed dropping compulsory retirement altogether from the conduct rules for central government officials saying it is neither punitive nor … Original source on Gaea Times at : Forced retirement may be dropped as penalty for officials.

New English test rule for non-EU spouse applications to Britain

LONDON – Come this autumn and it will be compulsory for non-EU immigrants marrying Britain citizens to pass an English test for being allowed into the country.

The new rule will apply to spouses or civil partners, fiances or proposed civil partners, unmarried partners or same sex partners of a Britain citizen or permanent resident. The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : New English test rule for non-EU spouse applications to Britain.

Irretrievable breakdown of marriage made ground for divorce

NEW DELHI – The cabinet Thursday approved an amendment to the Hindu Marriage Act to make irretrievable breakdown of marriage an additional ground for divorce.

“This would provide safeguards to parties who file petitions for grant of divorce by mutual consent but who wilfully avoid coming to court thus causing harassment to the other party,” Information … Read more : Irretrievable breakdown of marriage made ground for divorce.

No Victorian era if new immigrant rule imposed back then?

LONDON – Imagine what would have happened if the latest British immigration rule requiring the spouse of a British citizen to know English to enter the country was in vogue only a couple of centuries ago? There just might not have been a Victorian era!

Commenting on the rule announced by Home Secretary Theresa May earlier … Read more : No Victorian era if new immigrant rule imposed back then?.

Nepal Maoists to launch anti-dam stir

KATHMANDU – Fifteen regional organisations affiliated to the opposition Maoist party have warned the Nepal government that they would start a “strong” protest movement against a mega power project to be built in collaboration with India.

The Maoist groups have threatened to start the movement after June 17 if the Joint Project Team working on the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal Maoists to launch anti-dam stir.

1.6 million Indians make US their home

WASHINGTON – With about 1.6 million foreign-born from India residing in the United States in 2008, they have emerged as the third-largest immigrant group in America after Mexican and Filipino immigrants. There were, however, 2.3 million members of the Indian diaspora residing in the United States in 2008, including 455,000 native-born US citizens of Indian …. Read the original article  : 1.6 million Indians make US their home.

Judge dismisses all Arizona charges against polygamist leader Warren Jeffs

Judge dismisses Ariz. charges against Warren Jeffs

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – A Mohave County judge has dismissed all Arizona charges against polygamist leader Warren Jeffs. Judge Steven Conn granted a prosecutor’s motion Wednesday to dismiss the four charges of sexual misconduct with a minor with prejudice, meaning they cannot be refiled.
Mohave County Attorney Matt Smith says the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Attorney for accused Somali pirate seeks to shift trial out of Virginia Navy town

Piracy suspect seeks to move Va. trial
RICHMOND, Va. – One of 11 Somali nationals accused of attacking U.S. Navy ships off the coast of Africa is seeking to have his trial moved out of Norfolk, Va., home to the world’s largest naval base.

An attorney for Mohammed Jamah filed the request for a change of venue … Read : Attorney for accused Somali pirate seeks to shift trial out of Virginia Navy town.

Ex-ESPN worker who had affair with Phillips sues sports network over firing

Ex-ESPN worker who had affair with Phillips sues

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – A former ESPN production assistant whose affair with broadcaster Steve Phillips led to their firings has filed a lawsuit against the sports network saying it defamed her.
The lawsuit by 23-year-old Brooke Hundley, filed Tuesday in Stamford Superior Court, says ESPN defamed her by firing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ex-ESPN worker who had affair with Phillips sues sports network over firing.

Accused rogue trader Kerviel says he didn’t invent his betting tricks

Kerviel goes on offensive on trial’s second day

PARIS – The former trader accused of nearly toppling France’s Societe Generale argued in court Wednesday that he didn’t invent the tricks that allowed him to gamble tens of billions of euros (dollars) of the bank’s money, insisting that such practices were tolerated by management.
Jerome Kerviel used his … Original article on : Accused rogue trader Kerviel says he didn’t invent his betting tricks.

Appeals court throws out ruling ordering NYPD to release RNC protest surveillance documents

NY appeals court tosses ruling on RNC surveillance

NEW YORK – An appeals court has thrown out a ruling that ordered the release of documents related to NYPD surveillance of protesters at the 2004 Republican National Convention.
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan found Wednesday that the district court overstepped its authority by trying … Read more >>>.

Court refuses to meddle in ‘politically influenced transfer’

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Wednesday refused to stay the cancellation of a “politically influenced transfer” of a state government employee.

The petitioner, Bhavna Kubavat, approached the high court against cancellation of her transfer from Kotda Sangani to Atkot in Rajkot district.
It was submitted that the authorities had transferred her to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Court refuses to meddle in ‘politically influenced transfer’.

Colombian gets 30 years for disappearance of 1985 siege survivors

Bogota, June 11 (IANS/EFE) A retired Colombian army officer has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the disappearance of 10 civilians who survived the November 1985 battle between security forces and leftist rebels occupying the Palace of Justice in Bogota.

Judge Maria Stella Jara pronounced the sentence in the absence of Colonel Alfonso Plazas, …. Original article  : Colombian gets 30 years for disappearance of 1985 siege survivors.

Dowry, sexual harassment laws among government priorities

NEW DELHI – Three laws – on dowry, indecent representation of women and juvenile justice – as well as a draft bill on sexual harassment at workplace are top priority for the government this year, says Women and Child Development Minister Krishna Tirath.

The laws to which the ministry is contemplating seeking amendments are the Dowry … Original article on : Dowry, sexual harassment laws among government priorities.

As court moves to settle 9/11 health lawsuits, conflict seen with proposed federal bill

Conflict seen between 2 deals for 9/11 responders

NEW YORK – Thousands of 9/11 responders suing New York City over their exposure to World Trade Center dust may have a tough choice between two deals in the weeks ahead.
Do they take a share of a new settlement worth up to $713 million or hold out for [..] Read the original article: here.

Contempt notice to GJM for blocking national highway

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday issued a contempt notice to Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) for repeatedly blocking the national highway, connecting Siliguri with Gangtok, during the course of their agitation for a separate statehood.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

In Rajasthan, those neglecting parents could face jail

JAIPUR – The Rajasthan government has come to the aid of the elderly neglected by their children. It has decided that the guilty will be ordered to make a monthly allowance as maintenance for their parents or face up to three months in jail.

The state cabinet approved the provisions of the Maintenance and Welfare of …. Source article  : In Rajasthan, those neglecting parents could face jail.

Taiwan court cuts ex-president Chen’s life term to 20 years

TAIPEI – Taiwan’s High Court Friday reduced former president Chen Shui-bian’s life term to 20 years imprisonment as his family has given back some of the state funds he was accused of having embezzled, TV reports said.

The high court also cut the life term for Chen’s wife, Wu Shu-chen, who had also been found guilty …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Taiwan court cuts ex-president Chen’s life term to 20 years.

Children toil away as India observes day against child labour (June 12 is World Day Against Child Labour)

NEW DELHI – Come Saturday and it will be yet another World Day Against Child Labour, a day that holds little meaning for thousands of children who toil away in eateries, homes and on the roads in the national capital and elsewhere.

Life continues unchanged for the children as NGOs continue to cry hoarse over …. Source  : Children toil away as India observes day against child labour (June 12 is World Day Against Child Labour).

Live action updates from Game 4 of the NBA finals between longtime rivals Celtics, Lakers

Celtics beat Lakers, knot the NBA finals 2-2

These finals aren’t over yet.
Boston wins tonight 96-89, tying the series at two games apiece. Game 5 is in Boston on Sunday, and yes, we’re off to Los Angeles again next week for Game 6. At least.
The Lakers now get the dreaded two off days to stew over …. Read the original article  : here.

Kansas athletic director Perkins decides to retire at end of 2010-2011 academic year

Kansas AD Perkins will retire in 15 months

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas athletic director Lew Perkins will retire next year, ending a highly successful but sometimes-stormy 43-year career in sports administration.
The 65-year-old Perkins made the announcement in a statement released through the school Thursday, one day after he was cleared of accepting free use of gym … Read more : Kansas athletic director Perkins decides to retire at end of 2010-2011 academic year.

NY: Social-networking site Tagged.com ignored abuse rules, probe found explicit photos of kids

NY: Networking site Tagged.com ignored abuse rules

NEW YORK – The New York attorney general’s office says social-networking site Tagged.com is ignoring its own procedures and allowing sexually explicit photographs of children to remain online despite complaints.
Attorney General Andrew Cuomo (KWOH’-moh) said Thursday he’ll sue if the site doesn’t fix the problem within 5 days.
Tagged.com says … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NY: Social-networking site Tagged.com ignored abuse rules, probe found explicit photos of kids.

Eelam dreams only hurting Tamils: Sri Lankan minister (Interview)

NEW DELHI – A Sri Lankan Tamil minister who accompanied President Mahinda Rajapaksa to India says the Tamil diaspora’s refusal to give up the Tamil Eelam dream is only hurting his community.

Expatriate Tamils in Western countries who continued to be loyal to the goal of forming an independent state were no way serving the mass … Read more »».

Pak SC asks Law ministry to submit new summary to open Swiss cases against Zardari

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Supreme Court has directed the Law Ministry to table before it a new summary concerning the opening of money laundering cases, including the 60 million dollar graft charges pending against President Asif Ali Zardari is Swiss courts.

Continuing the hearing on the case over the implementation of the National Reconciliation Ordinance … Read more : Pak SC asks Law ministry to submit new summary to open Swiss cases against Zardari.

Canadian parliament admits motion to call 1984 riots ‘genocide’

TORONTO – A motion by an Indo-Canadian MP asking the Canadian government declare the 1984 anti-Sikh riots as ‘genocide’ was tabled in the country’s parliament late Thursday.

Sukh Dhaliwal, MP for Newton-North Delta on the suburbs of Vancouver, was joined by Andrew Kania, MP from the Punjabi-dominant constituency of Brampton West on the outskirts of Toronto, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Canadian parliament admits motion to call 1984 riots ‘genocide’.

If the Bhopal tragedy had happened in the US? (Comment)

It is rarely, if at all, remembered that the Dec 2-3, 1984, Bhopal industrial disaster had capped off five weeks of what was probably the bloodiest time in independent India’s history until then. In a macabre sort of way, the Bhopal disaster seemed to provide perfect denouement to the series of dystopian events that preceded …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

LA judge finds man guilty of stalking Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson, weapons violations

Man found guilty of stalking gymnast Shawn Johnson

LOS ANGELES – A judge says a Florida man is guilty of stalking Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor found Robert O’Ryan guilty of felony stalking and burglary charges on Friday afternoon. The judge also found the 36-year-old was guilty of two misdemeanor … Original article on : LA judge finds man guilty of stalking Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson, weapons violations.

Kagan played role in defending Clinton in Jones sex suit, but memos to be kept secret

Kagan role in Clinton sex harassment suit withheld
WASHINGTON – Bill Clinton’s presidential library is keeping secret memos and notes Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan wrote in connection with the Paula Jones sexual harassment suit.
Kagan was deeply involved in defending Clinton in the lawsuit brought by the ex-Arkansas state worker that touched off events … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kagan played role in defending Clinton in Jones sex suit, but memos to be kept secret.

Appeals court: Feds in Bonds perjury trial must exclude urine samples, other key evidence

Appeals court sides with Bonds on evidence

SAN FRANCISCO – A divided federal appeals court has dealt the federal government a significant setback in its prosecution of Barry Bonds on perjury charges.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Friday that prosecutors may not present positive urine samples and other vital evidence that the government says … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Appeals court: Feds in Bonds perjury trial must exclude urine samples, other key evidence.

Sri Lankan minister goes home, Indian court to hear arrest plea Monday

CHENNAI – Sri Lankan Minister Douglas Devananda, declared a proclaimed offender under the Indian law, returned to his country Friday as the Madras High Court said it will hear a petition urging his arrest Monday.

The petition was filed by advocate P. Pugazhendhi, who contended a warrant was issued against Devananda, now the minister for traditional …. Read the original article  : here.

Delhi government, MCD pulled up for manhole cleaners’ deaths

NEW DELHI – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Friday sought the response of the Delhi government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on the alleged death of three people while cleaning a manhole in the capital.

Terming the incident a serious issue of violation of human rights of the victims, the NHRC issued notices … Read : Delhi government, MCD pulled up for manhole cleaners’ deaths.

Judge sentences Wisconsin inmate to 27 months of prison for helping cellmate commit suicide

Judge sentences Wis. inmate for role in suicide

JUNEAU, Wis. – A judge has sentenced a Wisconsin inmate to 27 months in prison for helping his cellmate commit suicide last year.
Dodge County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Bissonnette said he questioned whether 20-year-old Adam Peterson could have succeeded in hanging himself from a bunk bed without help …. Original article  : Judge sentences Wisconsin inmate to 27 months of prison for helping cellmate commit suicide.

Swami Nityananda released on bail

Bangalore, June 13 (ANI): Self-styled godman Swami Nityananda, who was arrested on criminal charges, including rape was released from Bangalore’s Ramanagara jail after the Karnataka High Court granted bail to him.

Nityananda, who was granted bail on Friday has to furnish a Rs.100, 000 bond, give no public discourses, surrender his passport and report to the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New law to end ambiguity on marriageable age

NEW DELHI – To put an end to ambiguity over the minimum age of marriage mentioned in numerous laws, the government is contemplating a new law that will spell it out as 18 years for women and 21 years for men.

For this, the government has asked the National Commission for Women (NCW), the apex body … Read more : New law to end ambiguity on marriageable age.

Sheriff’s deputies raid Sizzler steak houses in Phoenix, detain 9 in fraudulent document probe

Authorities raid Sizzler restaurants in Phoenix

PHOENIX – Sheriff’s deputies raided two Sizzler steak house restaurants in Phoenix, arresting nine employees who are suspected of being illegal immigrants and using fraudulent documents to get jobs.
The Saturday raids were part of an investigation into whether the operators of the two Sizzler locations broke a civil law by …. Read the original article  : here.

Over 100 come together to protest Bhopal verdict

NEW DELHI – Over 100 activists came together in the national capital Saturday for a peaceful protest to mark their solidarity with the victims and survivors of the Bhopal gas tragedy, who they feel have been cheated of justice.

Calling the June 7 verdict in the case as the cheapest negotiation by the government for its [..] Read the original article: here.

Calif island lands in immigration debate as its congressman takes on a Mexican official

Calif island lands in storm of immigration debate

AVALON, Calif. – An island off the Los Angeles coast reluctantly finds itself in the middle of an international tussle over illegal immigration.
And some leaders are blaming their own congressman for putting them there.
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher earlier this month confronted a Mexican official who was distributing identity cards … Read more : Calif island lands in immigration debate as its congressman takes on a Mexican official.

Judge in historic gay marriage trial challenges lawyers with tough closing argument questions

CA gay marriage trial to resume after long break

SAN FRANCISCO – The lawyers in the landmark federal trial over the constitutionality of California’s gay marriage ban may have to check their dazzling oratory at the courtroom door during next week’s closing arguments.
Chief U.S. Judge Vaughn Walker has given them a list of 39 questions he …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge in historic gay marriage trial challenges lawyers with tough closing argument questions.

Andhra rights panel bans children’s reality shows

HYDERABAD – The Andhra Pradesh State Human Rights Commission Saturday banned television reality shows involving children.

Pronouncing its verdict on the petitions filed by some NGOs, the commission banned with immediate effect “Aata” a dance reality show on Zee Telugu channel and directed the police to take action against such shows on other channels.
Commission chairman …. Original source  : Andhra rights panel bans children’s reality shows.

Trials of Jesse: With civil and family cases, Jesse James becoming frequent court figure

Trials of Jesse: Biker to be frequent court figure

LOS ANGELES – Jesse James is getting his day in court. Quite a few of them, actually.
The biker businessman and estranged husband of Sandra Bullock was a fixture in a Los Angeles courtroom this week, where he’s involved in dueling lawsuits with an apparel manufacturer.
James is expected …. Original source  : Trials of Jesse: With civil and family cases, Jesse James becoming frequent court figure.

Reduced punishment in Bhopal case due to apex court: Moily

BANGALORE – Law and Justice Minister M.Veerappa Moily Saturday said it was the Supreme Court that converted the Bhopal gas tragedy case into a case that attracted minor punishment though the original charges filed against the accused entailed a maximum of 10 years in jail.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) wanted the tragedy to be … Original article on : Reduced punishment in Bhopal case due to apex court: Moily.

Moily hints at early transfer of Justice Dinakaran

NEW DELHI – Union Law and Justice Minister M Veerappa Moily on Saturday hinted at the early transfer of Karnataka High Court Chief Justice P. D. Dinkaran.

Justice Dinakaran is in the center of controversies after facing impeachment proceedings for land grabbing charges.

Interacting with media, Moiy said the Supreme Court Collegium has already recommended …. Original article  : Moily hints at early transfer of Justice Dinakaran.

Jackson’s doctor fighting in court to keep medical license

Jackson doctor fighting to keep medical license

LOS ANGELES – Michael Jackson’s doctor will be fighting to keep his medical license at his latest court hearing.
Dr. Conrad Murray is due in court Monday for a pretrial hearing, a large part of which likely will deal with a motion from the attorney general’s office to suspend Murray’s …. Source article  : Jackson’s doctor fighting in court to keep medical license.

Sagotra marriages petitioner asked to move high court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday asked a petitioner, seeking direction to the central government that marriages within “sagotra (same clan)” be deemed prohibited relationship under the Hindu Marriage Act, to move the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

A vacation bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Deepak Verma and comprising Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan … Read : Sagotra marriages petitioner asked to move high court.

Nadia death case: Pacheco to move Goa High Court for bail

PANAJI – Former Goa Tourism Minister Fransisco Mickey Pacheco will move the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court for anticipatory bail on Monday.

The High court will also hear an anticipatory bail petition filed by Pacheco’s aide, Lyndon Monteiro.

On Thursday, the Panaji Sessions Court had rejected Pacheco’s anticipatory bail plea.

The crime branch has …. Read the original article  : Nadia death case: Pacheco to move Goa High Court for bail.

Woman wins 22-year property battle, but gets no land

NEW DELHI – It took 22 long years for a court to direct the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to return a plot to coal depot owner Darshna Rani. But six months after the verdict, the 75-year-old is still to get her due.

“It’s been almost six months since this judgment came in our favour, but …. Source  : Woman wins 22-year property battle, but gets no land.

Former Somali colonel living in Ohio denies torture claim brought by human rights lawyer

Ohio immigrant denies torture claim from Somalia

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A former Somalia military colonel who lives in Ohio is rejecting the claims of a lawyer who says the colonel ordered his detention and torture in Somalia in 1988.
Abdi Aden Magan (AB’-dee AH’-den mah-gen) of Columbus says he’s immune from prosecution in the United States and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former Somali colonel living in Ohio denies torture claim brought by human rights lawyer.

Apex court pulls up Karnataka judge for indiscipline

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday pulled up Justice D.V. Shylendra Kumar, judge of the Karnataka High Court, for breaching judicial discipline by using intemperate language and encroaching on the administrative authority of Chief Justice P.D. Dinakaran.

The court made it clear that Justice Dinakaran, being the chief justice, enjoyed absolute authority in the administrative …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Apex court pulls up Karnataka judge for indiscipline.

Government going soft on penalties for erring officials?

NEW DELHI – If the central government has its way, it will not deduct the salaries of proven erring and corrupt officials and will not object to them being re-employed in the government either.

In its efforts to streamline the carrot and stick policy for officials, the union ministry for personnel, training and public grievances has … Read more »»».

Judge denies gov’t motion to be dismissed from lawsuit over immigration detainee death in RI

Judge: US can be sued in RI detainee death case

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A judge has denied the federal government’s request to be dismissed from a lawsuit over the death of an immigration detainee in Rhode Island.
Hiu Lui (Hyoo-Loo) “Jason” Ng (ENG’) died of liver cancer in 2008 while in the custody of the Donald W. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Judge denies gov’t motion to be dismissed from lawsuit over immigration detainee death in RI.

Journalists in Oregon case seek more than 1,000 Boy Scouts files on suspected molesters

Journalists seek Scouts’ files on abuse suspects

PORTLAND, Ore. – News organizations in Oregon have asked a Portland judge to release more than 1,000 files on suspected child molesters – records a jury used in April when it found the Boy Scouts of America liable for $20 million in damages.
Lawyers for the journalists told Judge John …. Read the original article  : Journalists in Oregon case seek more than 1,000 Boy Scouts files on suspected molesters.

Comic book writer Gaiman, artist McFarlane engage in copyright battle over ‘Spawn’

Comic book giants do battle over ‘Spawn’
MADISON, Wis. – Famed comic book writer Neil Gaiman testified Monday that he sees no difference between Dark Ages Spawn and Medieval Spawn, a character he co-created nearly two decades ago.

The battle over Spawn, as well as two scantily clad female angel characters, was being waged not in the …. Original article  : Comic book writer Gaiman, artist McFarlane engage in copyright battle over ‘Spawn’.

NY temple-plot trial delayed as prosecutors say they need time to examine classified material

NY temple-plot trial delayed over classified info

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – A federal judge has delayed the trial of four men accused of plotting to bomb New York synagogues because the prosecution says it needs more time to comply with a ruling favorable to the defense.
The government says the ruling means it has to go through …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NY temple-plot trial delayed as prosecutors say they need time to examine classified material.

Bad bounces? Mexico trying an NFL ball to help deal with Jabulani

Bad bounces? Try an NFL ball
JOHANNESBURG – Bad bounces plaguing the goalkeepers? Try an NFL ball.

That’s part of Mexico’s solution for the unpredictable way the Jabulani ball has acted early in the World Cup.
At Monday’s practice, Mexico goalkeeping coach Alberto Aguilar used NFL footballs in a drill to better prepare his players for, well, that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Implement Kerala high court’s anti-encrochment order: apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday declined to interfere with a Kerala High Court order asking the state police to clear the encroachment of government land by tribals within four weeks.

The vacation bench of judges Deepak Verma and K.S. Radhakrishnan did not entertain the state government’s plea that the high court order infringed upon … Original article on : Implement Kerala high court’s anti-encrochment order: apex court.

Supreme Court sends death row appeal where lawyer missed filing deadline back to lower court

Court: Death row case goes back to lower court

WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court said Monday lower courts should look again at an appeal from a death row inmate in Florida whose lawyer missed the deadline for asking federal courts to stop his execution.
The high court overturned an appeals court decision saying Albert Holland had missed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court sends death row appeal where lawyer missed filing deadline back to lower court.

Court hearing into who heads Southern Christian Leadership Conference delayed until June 28

SCLC hearing in Atlanta delayed until June 28

ATLANTA – A hearing in Atlanta to determine who controls the Southern Christian Leadership Conference is on hold for two weeks.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Alford Dempsey is turning to other cases and will resume the SCLC hearing June 28.
Dueling SCLC factions split last fall over allegations of … Read more : Court hearing into who heads Southern Christian Leadership Conference delayed until June 28.

Perfumes off UK shelves over Indian workers wage allegations

LONDON – In a move that could affect India’s draw as a cheap manufacturing destination, Superdrug, the UK’s second-largest health and beauty retailer, has pulled out the perfumes of reality TV star Katie Price from its shelves following allegations that Indian workers making the bottles were not even paid minimum wages.

The Observer on Sunday, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Perfumes off UK shelves over Indian workers wage allegations.

Oz prosecutor says ‘Dr. Death’s’ surgeries were ‘out of the loop’

BRISBANE – Brisbane Supreme Court prosecutor Ross Martin on Wednesday claimed that the Indian-origin Dr. Jayant Patel’s complicated surgeries were ‘out of the loop’ for someone with such little experience.

Martin told a jury of the apex court that was hearing manslaughter charges against Patel, who is also known as ‘Dr. Death’ that the oesophagectomies (the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oz prosecutor says ‘Dr. Death’s’ surgeries were ‘out of the loop’.

Attorney says former Oregon QB Jeremiah Masoli pleads not guilty to 3 noncriminal counts

Former Oregon QB Masoli enters not guilty pleas

SPRINGFIELD, Ore. – A lawyer for former Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli has notified a court in writing of his client’s not guilty pleas to three noncriminal citations.
Eugene lawyer Dan Koenig said Tuesday he sent the notice of Masoli’s not guilty pleas last week.
Masoli was cited June 7 for … Original article on : Attorney says former Oregon QB Jeremiah Masoli pleads not guilty to 3 noncriminal counts.

27 mn people displaced within their own country: UN

Geneva, June 16 (IANS/WAM) The number of people forcibly displaced within their own country grew by four percent to 27.1 million in 2009, the UN has said.

Persistent conflict in Pakistan, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, accounted for the increase in the overall figure, it said.
However, the number of refugees worldwide remained … Original source on Gaea Times at : 27 mn people displaced within their own country: UN.

Argentine Nobel winner Perez Esquivel finally testifies against his alleged torturers

Argentine Nobelist Perez Esquivel recalls torture

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Adolfo Perez Esquivel, who won the 1980 Nobel Peace Prize for his work exposing abuses during Argentina’s military dictatorship, finally testified against his captors Tuesday, describing his torture and crediting international pressure for saving his life.
Perez Esquivel recounted the blows, screams and repeated torture sessions in [..] Read the original article: here.

Court bars stunt jumper from Empire State Building after ‘06 parachute attempt from 86th floor

Court bars stunt jumper from Empire State Building

NEW YORK – The TV daredevil who tried to parachute off the Empire State Building has been permanently banned from the New York City landmark.
A Manhattan court ordered Jeb Corliss to stay away from the skyscraper. The ban was part of a ruling last week in a lawsuit … Read more »»».

Browns and ex-player Joe Jurevicius settle lawsuit over staph infection

Browns, ex-player settle suit over staph infection

CLEVELAND – A settlement has been reached in the lawsuit over a staph infection that benched former Cleveland Browns receiver Joe Jurevicius.
The terms of the settlement will be kept confidential, Fred Nance, the attorney for the team, said Tuesday.
Jurevicius sued the Browns and the Cleveland Clinic last year, saying … Read more : Browns and ex-player Joe Jurevicius settle lawsuit over staph infection.

Rwandan court expected to rule Thursday on whether to release Minn. law professor

Rwandan court to rule Thursday on jailed US lawyer

MINNEAPOLIS – Relatives of a Minnesota law professor jailed in Rwanda says a judge is expected to rule Thursday whether he should be freed on bail for health reasons.
Peter Erlinder is accused of violating Rwanda’s laws against minimizing that country’s 1994 genocide. Erlinder doesn’t deny mass violence …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rwandan court expected to rule Thursday on whether to release Minn. law professor.

High court cancels Gujarat official’s promotion

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Tuesday cancelled the promotion of Director (Environment) J.K. Vyas, terming it “unconstitutional”.

Justice M.R. Shah passed the order on a petition filed by environmentalist Amit Jethava.
The petitioner had submitted before the court that Vyas was promoted from the post of senior technical officer to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : High court cancels Gujarat official’s promotion.

Windstream suing Nebraska commission over requirement for prorated customer refunds

Windstream suing Neb. agency over billing rule

LINCOLN, Neb. – Windstream Corp., which has thousands of telecommunications customers in Nebraska, has sued the state’s Public Service Commission over new rules on customer refunds.
Windstream said in a lawsuit filed in Lancaster County District Court last week that the commission exceeded its authority in changing regulations regarding final … Read more »»».

Court hands over golf club to Kerala government

NEW DELHI/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Supreme Court Thursday cleared the decks for the takeover by the Kerala government of the Trivandrum Golf Club and the state’s only golf course.

The court set up a panel headed by the chief secretary of the state to run the day-to-day affairs of the club that managed the golf course.
The [..] Read the original article: here.

Dutch court to decide if girl, 14, is free to try to be youngest to sail the world solo

Court to decide if Dutch girl can sail the world

AMSTERDAM – A Dutch court is to decide Thursday whether a 14-year-old girl should be released from state custody so she can try to become the youngest person to sail solo around the globe, a ruling that comes just days after a California teenager was rescued …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Dutch court to decide if girl, 14, is free to try to be youngest to sail the world solo.

Court hands over golf course to Kerala government

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday cleared the decks for the takeover of the Trivandrum Golf Course by the Kerala government.

The court constituted a committee headed by the chief secretary of the state to run the day-to-day affairs of the golf course.
… Read : Court hands over golf course to Kerala government.

Follow the money: Prosecutors start charting money flow at Blagojevich corruption trial

Witness charts money flow in Blagojevich case
CHICAGO – Follow the money.
That’s what jurors are being asked to do at the corruption trial of Rod Blagojevich.
Prosecutors believe more witnesses expected to testify Thursday will link the former Illinois governor to shady money deals. One-time political insider Joseph Cari is expected to resume his testimony.
In … Read more : Follow the money: Prosecutors start charting money flow at Blagojevich corruption trial.

Ultra-Orthodox Jews plan mass protests against religious school integration ruling

Ultra-Orthodox Jews protesting integration ruling

JERUSALEM – Ultra-Orthodox Jews have called mass demonstrations to protest a Supreme Court ruling forcing the integration of a religious girls’ school.
Parents of European, or Ashkenazi, descent don’t want their children studying with schoolgirls of Mideast and North African descent, known as Sephardim.
The Ashkenazi parents insist they aren’t racist. They say …. Original article  : Ultra-Orthodox Jews plan mass protests against religious school integration ruling.

Brother of top Colombian guerilla leader arrives in Nicaragua after political asylum granted

Brother of rebel leader arrives in Nicaragua

MANAGUA, Nicaragua – A Nicaraguan TV channel is reporting that the brother of a top Colombian guerrilla leader has arrived in Managua, where president Daniel Ortega had granted him political asylum earlier this month.
Nicaraguan TV Channel 4 reports that Ruben Dario Granda arrived Wednesday night with his wife and …. Original source  : Brother of top Colombian guerilla leader arrives in Nicaragua after political asylum granted.

Cassano’s lawyers say the SEC is closing its inquiry of the AIG executive

Cassano lawyers: SEC closes inquiry of AIG exec

WASHINGTON – Lawyers for Joseph Cassano say the Securities and Exchange Commission has decided to close its inquiry of the former head of AIG’s financial products unit without taking any action against him.
Word of the SEC’s decision follows similar action by the Justice Department, which decided not to …. Source  : Cassano’s lawyers say the SEC is closing its inquiry of the AIG executive.

Ore. jury considering death penalty for convicted killer whose sentence was overturned 3 times

Convicted killer to be sentenced for 4th time

BEND, Ore. – An Oregon jury is considering whether to sentence to death a convicted killer who has already been given the death penalty three times.
A Deschutes County Circuit Court jury in Bend on Wednesday will be the fourth to decide whether Randy Lee Guzek should die.
The 41-year-old … Read more >>>.

Gujarat initiates process to appoint ombudsman

AHMEDABAD – After almost seven years, the Gujarat government has initiated the process of appointing a lokayukta or ombudsman in the state.

This information was provided by the state government to the Gujarat High Court here Wednesday following a public suit seeking the appointment to the post.
According to the submission, the cabinet has …. Source  : Gujarat initiates process to appoint ombudsman.

Judge recuses himself from former Goa minister’s bail plea

PANAJI – Former Goa minister Mickky Pacheco’s bail plea in the case relating to his 28-year-old alleged lover’s death, could not be heard Friday as a Bombay High Court judge recused himself from the hearing.

In his bail application before the Panaji bench of the high court, the former tourism minister says that it is a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge recuses himself from former Goa minister’s bail plea.

Court dismisses petition against same gotra marriage

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking amendment in the law to ban same ‘gotra’ (sub-caste) marriages, calling the petition “a waste of time”.

“You don’t know what is gotra? Which Hindu text prescribes banning of sagotra (same clan) marriage? Why are you wasting the time of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Court dismisses petition against same gotra marriage.

Ex-employee wins legal battle after 17 years

GANDHINAGAR – A former employee of the National Textiles Corp (Gujarat) Ltd has finally won compensation from the company after 17 long years of legal battle.

The Gujarat High Court gave the ruling Thursday in favour of Rajnikant Potnis, asking the company to pay him all his dues with 18 percent interest.
The court [..] Read the original article: here.

Vietnam to use lethal injections for death penalty

HANOI – Vietnam’s National Assembly has voted to replace firing squads with lethal injections in enforcing the death penalty because it is “more humane”, officials said Friday.

Officials said the new law, passed Thursday, was prompted in part by concern over the damage firing squads cause to the bodies of those executed.
Lethal injection will “reduce … Read more »».

Geriatric wards, national commission in offing for the elderly

NEW DELHI – With nearly 90 million people in the ranks of senior citizens in India, the government is looking at a policy for them that involves creation of geriatric wards in all hospitals and a statutory body with the powers of a judicial court to deal with matters related to the elderly.

“A National Commission … Read more >>.

NY judge dismisses bin Laden half brothers from lawsuits, sees no direct connection to terror

NY judge tosses bin Laden brothers from lawsuits

NEW YORK – A New York judge has dismissed several dozen defendants including members of Osama bin Laden’s family from lawsuits seeking to blame individuals, banks and foreign entities for the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
Federal Judge George Daniels in Manhattan issued the order Thursday. He dropped four bin … Read : NY judge dismisses bin Laden half brothers from lawsuits, sees no direct connection to terror.

Ex-Illinois official says he got job from Blagojevich after making $50,000 campaign donation

Blagojevich witness says he got job after donating

CHICAGO – A former Illinois state finance official says he got his job from Rod Blagojevich after contributing $50,000 to the former governor’s campaign.
Ali Ata, former executive director of the Illinois Finance Authority, testified during Blagojevich’s corruption trial Thursday.
Ata said he took a check for $25,000 to a … Read more >>.

NYC judge rules Guantanamo detainee must face strip searches to protect security interests

Judge: Guantanamo detainee will be strip searched

NEW YORK – A judge has ruled that a Guantanamo Bay detainee awaiting trial in a federal civilian court in New York City cannot evade strip searches that require him to expose his private areas.
Judge Lewis Kaplan made the ruling Thursday regarding Ahmed Khalfan Ghailani (guh-LAHN’-ee). He says the … Original article on : NYC judge rules Guantanamo detainee must face strip searches to protect security interests.

Embattled Texas judge Keller faces possible removal, but state panel seldom tosses jurists

History favors Texas judge facing possible removal

SAN ANTONIO – An embattled Texas appeals judge may have history on her side when she appears before a state disciplinary panel.
Judge Sharon Keller will answer charges Friday that she denied a death row inmate the chance to file a last-minute appeal hours before his 2007 execution. The presiding …. Source  : Embattled Texas judge Keller faces possible removal, but state panel seldom tosses jurists.

Suburban NY village will allow Orthodox Jews to gather at house near hospital on Sabbath

NY suburb settles suit over Jews’ ‘Shabbos House’

A New York village has settled a federal lawsuit and will allow Orthodox Jews to gather at a house near a hospital so they can visit patients on the Sabbath without breaking their law against driving.
The village of Suffern, N.Y., had denied a variance for the use of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Suburban NY village will allow Orthodox Jews to gather at house near hospital on Sabbath.

Tibetan refugees dying ‘by a thousand cuts’ in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Hunted down by armed Chinese security forces inside Nepal’s territory and threatened with bullets by Nepal’s police, thousands of Tibetan refugees in Nepal, including women and children, are living on the razor’s edge, dying a death by “a thousand cuts”, a report says.

“A fragile welcome: China’s influence on Nepal and its impact on …. Source  : Tibetan refugees dying ‘by a thousand cuts’ in Nepal.

2nd mistrial for surfers accused of attacking man who tried to photograph Matthew McConaughey

2nd mistrial declared in McConaughey surf battle

MALIBU, Calif. – A judge has declared a mistrial for a second time in a misdemeanor battery case against two surfers accused of attacking a photographer who tried to photograph actor Matthew McConaughey on a Malibu beach.
Jurors deadlocked Friday in the case against Skylar Peak and Philip Hildebrand.
Malibu Superior [..] Read the original article: here.

Terrell Owens, cousin, named in $12,000 Ala. lawsuit over lease dispute for their martini bar

Terrell Owens, cousin, named in $12,000 Ala. suit

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – An Alabama business has filed a lawsuit against NFL receiver Terrell Owens and his cousin, claiming the two didn’t pay expenses from a lease termination agreement for their martini bar.
The Birmingham News reports that the lawsuit was filed in Jefferson County Circuit Court Friday on … Read more : Terrell Owens, cousin, named in $12,000 Ala. lawsuit over lease dispute for their martini bar.

After opposition, New York City raises proposed cap on art vendors in parks; artists sue city

NYC sued over proposed cap on art vendors in parks

NEW YORK – Two artists have filed a free-speech lawsuit against New York City in response to new regulations capping the number of art vendors allowed in Manhattan’s busiest parks.
Robert Lederman and Jack Nesbitt say that allowing only about 120 vendors in Union Square, Battery Park, … Read : After opposition, New York City raises proposed cap on art vendors in parks; artists sue city.

US wishes happy birthday to Suu Kyi, ’sadly’ in house arrest

WASHINGTON – The US has sent “warmest wishes” to opposition politician Aung San Suu Kyi on her 65th birthday, which the US said “sadly” will be marked by another birthday under house arrest in Myanmar.

“Her enduring struggle for the fundamental right of all people of Burma to live in freedom continues to inspire people the … Read more : US wishes happy birthday to Suu Kyi, ’sadly’ in house arrest.

Oregon judge grants, then stays Boy Scouts’ secret files release pending appeal

Ore. judge grants, stays Scouts files release

PORTLAND, Ore. – A Portland judge granted and then stayed a request by news organizations to release more than 1,000 Boy Scouts of America files on suspected child molesters given to a jury that found the Scouts liable for $20 million in damages.
Judge John Wittmayer ruled Friday the files …. Read the original article  : here.

Fla. jury awards $2.4 million damages in nation’s first trial over defective Chinese drywall

Jury awards $2.4M in first Chinese drywall trial

MIAMI – A Florida couple has been awarded more than $2.4 million in damages after the nation’s first jury trial of a Chinese drywall lawsuit.
Jurors in Miami returned the verdict Friday for Armin and Lisa Seifart in their lawsuit against drywall seller Banner Supply Co. Attorneys say the … Read more >>>.

Tamil Nadu asked about detention of 113 people

NEW DELHI – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Friday sought a report from the Tamil Nadu government on the illegal detention of 113 people during a drive to remove mentally ill people from the streets.

Taking suo motu cognisance of the matter, the NHRC issued notice to the chief secretary of the Tamil Nadu government … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tamil Nadu asked about detention of 113 people.

Court orders stop to construction on Gomti river bed

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court Friday ordered the Uttar Pradesh government to stop all construction activity along the banks of the river Gomti here.

A division bench of Justice D.P. Singh and Justice Y.K. Sangal told the government to promptly suspend all construction activity within 100 metres of the river bed. It …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Girl fearing honour killing gets protection

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday directed the police to provide protection to a girl who fears reprisals from her family for getting pregnant — with her lover now in jail on rape charges.

A vacation bench of Justice S.N. Dhingra directed the police to visit the Delhi house of the girl — whose … Read more : Girl fearing honour killing gets protection.

Pak Law Minister slapped with legal notice over ‘extravagant spending’ on lawyers

LAHORE – Pakistan Law Minister Babar Awan has been slapped with a legal notice for spending over 40 million rupees to please lawyers and gain their favour.

According to The Daily Times, Advocate Malik Tariq Aziz has sent a legal notice to Awan for ‘extravagant spending’ during his Multan tour and for issuing a grant of …. Source  : Pak Law Minister slapped with legal notice over ‘extravagant spending’ on lawyers.

Lahore High Court asks officials to explain acquittal of key Manawan attack accused

LAHORE – Taking sou motu action over the acquittal of main accused of the Manawan training centre attack, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has directed the top brass of the Punjab Police and the prosecutor general to appear before the court on June 22 to explain as to under what circumstances the case against the … Read : Lahore High Court asks officials to explain acquittal of key Manawan attack accused.

Bangladesh garment workers world’s most poorly paid: Survey

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s garment sector workers are “the world’s most poorly paid” and their rights are being abused increasingly, an international trade union body has said.

Poor wages and working conditions, and refusal of the factory owners to honour wage agreements are also leading to frequent violence, Vienna-based International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) said in a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Divorced fathers crave for shared parenting (June 20 is Father’s Day)

SHIMLA – This Father’s Day, divorced men are seeking their due. An NGO with more than 2,500 members across the country has taken up their cause, saying shared parenting and joint custody of children should be implemented as a rule in divorce or separation cases.

Bangalore-based Children’s Rights Initiative for Shared Parenting (CRISP) points out that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Divorced fathers crave for shared parenting (June 20 is Father’s Day).

African migrants face racism in Australia

MELBOURNE – African migrants face racial discrimination in Australia at every level, the Australian Human Rights Commission has found.

Africans feel racism at work places, schools, while finding house and in the criminal justice system, the watchdog said in its report on the treatment towards one of Australia’s newest migrant and refugee groups.
Younger African Australians … Read more >>.

200 illegal immigrants arrested in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – Over 200 illegal immigrants were arrested in Malaysia’s Penang state after they failed to provide valid documents to prove their legal entry into the country, police said.

An enforcement team of around 60 officials including police and immigration officers carried out the raid on the illegal immigrants Saturday. Within three hours, over 200 … Read more >>>.

Rod being Rod: Glad-handing, hugging Blagojevich tries to connect during corruption trial

Waves, smiles: Blagojevich still tries to connect
CHICAGO – When it comes to his inner-campaign switch, Rod Blagojevich apparently knows only one mode: ‘On.’
Since his corruption trial began, the impeached Illinois governor has drawn on his skill as a politician to work the federal courthouse. The big-haired Blagojevich cheerfully agrees to pose for cell-phone … Read more »».

Kashmiri Pandits seek refugee status

NEW DELHI – Hundreds of Kashmiri Pandits, along with members of civil society, will hold a protest Sunday on World Refugee Day to demand the government classify them as internally displaced persons (IDPs).

“We are living in forced exile for over 21 years. The governments of Sri Lanka and Pakistan have provided IDPs status to Tamil … Read more »».

Detention system often sends immigrants far away from family, friends, and legal help

Immigrant detainees moved miles from home and help

NEW YORK – It’s been over a year since Joey Wong left Long Island. Since then, he’s been in Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Louisiana and now likely heading back to New Mexico.
The 32-year-old immigrant is fighting deportation. Like thousands of other immigrants, he’s bounced through immigration detention facilities across …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Detention system often sends immigrants far away from family, friends, and legal help.

States consulted on courts working in shifts

CHENNAI – The possibility of lower courts working in shifts to render speedy justice and re-employment of retired judges to reduce pending cases is being discussed with the state governments by a parliamentary panel.

“The committee is looking into the aspects of the courts working in shifts and re-employment of retired judges to dispose the pending … Read more >>.

Supreme Court issues notice to Centre, States on honour killings

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to the Centre and the governments of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan on the honour killing issue.

Justices R M Lodha and A K Patnaik sought a response from these governments to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the NGO ‘Shakti Vahini’ seeking stern …. Source  : Supreme Court issues notice to Centre, States on honour killings.

Jundullah chief Abdolmalek Rigi hanged in Iran

TEHRAN – Banned Iranian terror group Jundullah’s chief Abdolmalek Rigi, who was convicted of various charges by the country’s apex court of law, has been hanged.

According to Iran’s state television, Rigi was executed inside Evin prison in the presence of his family members.

“Abdolmalek Rigi was hanged at dawn today…he was convicted for many crimes like …. Source article  : Jundullah chief Abdolmalek Rigi hanged in Iran.

Bhopal Tragedy: GoM likely to seek Anderson’s extradition

NEW DELHI – The Group of Ministers on the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy is likely to recommend filing of a curative petition in the Supreme Court to fix criminal liability, seeking extradition of former Union Carbine chief Warren Anderson, apart from measures to clean up the disaster site.

The panel held four rounds of meetings [..] Read the original article: here.

Pelosi calls for peaceful future for Tibetan refugees

DHARAMSALA – US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi Sunday called for a “more secure, just and peaceful future” for Tibetan and other refugees around the world.

“In India and Nepal, there are approximately 70,000 Tibetan refugees who have escaped Chinese repression over the dangerous Himalayan mountain passes. There continues to be no resolution in sight … Read more »»».

Bank can close account for want of PAN card details: Court

NEW DELHI – A bank is justified in closing the account of a customer who fails to provide permanent account number (PAN) card details, Delhi’s top consumer court has said.

Refusing to grant any relief to the customer whose account was closed by the HDFC Bank for want of PAN card details, Delhi State Consumer Disputes … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bank can close account for want of PAN card details: Court.

Operators told to pay MCD in three days for mobile towers (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday asked cellular operators to pay half the enhanced fee for mobile towers to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in Fixed Deposit Receipts (FDRs).

The vacation bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice R.M. Lodha and Justice A.K. Patnaik gave cellular operators three days time to comply with … Original article on : Operators told to pay MCD in three days for mobile towers (Second Lead).

US Supreme Court upholds law barring material support’ for terror groups

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a key provision of the Patriot Act that makes it a crime for humanitarian groups to provide material support, including expert advice, to any individual who could potentially be connected to government-designated terrorist groups.

The apex court passed a ruling to this effect by a six to … Read more »»».

Key prosecution witness to be back on stand at Blagojevich corruption trial for days

Key prosecution witness on stand at Blago trial

CHICAGO – A central figure in the case against former Gov. Rod Blagojevich may be on the stand all week.
Blagojevich’s last chief of staff, John Harris, is expected to testify again Tuesday after first climbing the witness stand Monday afternoon. Prosecutors say he could be there for at …. Original article  : Key prosecution witness to be back on stand at Blagojevich corruption trial for days.

Operators told to pay MCD for mobile towers

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday asked cellular operators to pay half the enhanced fee for mobile towers to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in Fixed Deposit Receipts (FDRs).

The vacation bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice R.M. Lodha and Justice A.K. Patnaik gave cellular operators three days time to comply with … Read more »».

Brisbane SC to hear Justice John before deciding on Dr. Death’s fate

BRISBANE – The jury attached to the Brisbane Supreme Court will hear Justice John H Byrne’s summary of the manslaughter trial of controversial Indian origin surgeon Dr. Jayant Patel before deciding on the latter’s fate.

Justice John will begin the summing up the case before the jury this afternoon.

According to the Courier Mail, Dr. …. Original article  : Brisbane SC to hear Justice John before deciding on Dr. Death’s fate.

Cellular operators told to pay MCD

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday asked cellular operators to pay half the enhanced fee for mobile towers to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi in Fixed Deposit Receipts (FDRs).

The court, however, said that the civic agency would not encash the FDRs.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cellular operators told to pay MCD.

Judge considers bail for 4 accused of plotting to blow up NY synagogues, down military planes

Judge weighs bail for 4 accused in NY temple plot

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – A New York judge is considering bail for four men accused of plotting to down military planes and blow up synagogues with what they thought were an active missile and bombs.
Judge Colleen McMahon heard bail arguments Monday in White Plains, N.Y. There … Read : Judge considers bail for 4 accused of plotting to blow up NY synagogues, down military planes.

Kentucky con man receives 2 life sentences for killing Wisconsin couple in 1980

Ky. con man gets 2 life sentences for 1977 deaths

JEFFERSON, Wis. – Aging Kentucky con man Edward W. Edwards received his second pair of life sentences in two weeks on Monday.
Before sentencing, 77-year-old Edwards sat handcuffed in his wheelchair and made no comments to family members of the Wisconsin couple he admitted to killing 30 … Read : Kentucky con man receives 2 life sentences for killing Wisconsin couple in 1980.

AIADMK leaders call on President Patil to urge for Tamil to be the court’s language

NEW DELHI/ CHENNAI – A group of All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) MLAs called on President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil here on Monday to urge for their demand to make Tamil as the official language of the Madras High court.

Leading the delegation M. … Read more >>.

Protect couple marrying against parents’ wish, court to police

NEW DELHI – Asking police to take immediate action on any complaint from them, Delhi High Court Monday came to the aid of a couple who got married against the wishes of their respective families and were getting threats from them.

The vacation bench of Justice S.N. Dhingra afforded the protection to Gaurav and Chanchal … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Protect couple marrying against parents’ wish, court to police.

US government appeals court defeat on drilling moratorium

WASHINGTON – The US government sought to keep its moratorium on offshore oil drilling in place, filing an appeal against an earlier court order to end the ban.

The government Wednesday also asked federal Judge Martin Feldman in New Orleans to put his order from Tuesday on hold or issue a temporary stay until the appeals …. Source article  : US government appeals court defeat on drilling moratorium.

Land gifted to Rajendra Prasad usurped by Congress?

RANCHI – India’s first president Rajendra Prasad would never have imagined that land gifted to him in 1940 for starting an educational institution would allegedly be grabbed by the very Congress party of which he had been a member. But that does seem to be the case.

And the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has now … Read : Land gifted to Rajendra Prasad usurped by Congress?.

Bhopal, nuke liability bill are separate issues:Anand Sharma

WASHINGTON – The 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy did not cast a shadow on the deliberations of the India-US CEOs Forum to enhance India-US business ties, according to Commerce and Industry Minister, Anand Sharma.

“The subject never came up,” he told reporters Wednesday. “It’s a matter which is sub judice back home. And it’s not a subject … Read : Bhopal, nuke liability bill are separate issues:Anand Sharma.

Lawyers for ousted Ill. Gov. Blagojevich seek FBI’s summaries of interviews with Obama

Blago lawyers seek summaries of Obama interviews

CHICAGO – Attorneys for ousted Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich want to see the FBI’s summaries of interviews agents conducted with President Barack Obama.
After court adjourned Wednesday, Blagojevich’s lawyers filed a motion asking for the summaries, saying the request was prompted by testimony from Blagojevich’s former chief of staff John … Read more >>>.

Judge orders Stanford, co-defendants to be tried separately in massive fraud case

Stanford, co-defendants to be tried separately

HOUSTON – A judge has granted a request to have jailed Texas financier R. Allen Stanford tried separately from his three co-defendants on charges that they bilked investors out of $7 billion in a massive Ponzi scheme.
U.S. District Judge David Hittner of Houston signed an order Wednesday granting the request …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge orders Stanford, co-defendants to be tried separately in massive fraud case.

Man asks court to throw out his conviction in Kirsten Dunst handbag heist in NYC

Man wants conviction tossed in Dunst handbag heist

NEW YORK – A man who says he was duped into helping take Kirsten Dunst’s designer purse from a New York City hotel suite is trying to get his burglary conviction tossed.
A lawyer for James Jimenez (JIH’-mehn-ehz) asked a judge Wednesday to overturn jurors’ guilty verdict in the …. Source  : Man asks court to throw out his conviction in Kirsten Dunst handbag heist in NYC.

Court grills Gujarat on civic polls

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Wednesday directed the state government to tell under which provisions of the constitution it was empowered to notify seats for municipal corporation wards.

The division bench of Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice Akil Kureshi sought answers from the state government and the state election commission in this … Original source on Gaea Times at : Court grills Gujarat on civic polls.

Court relief for British Airways

NEW DELHI – Providing relief to the British Airways (BA), the Supreme Court Wednesday said the airline could not be held guilty of indulging in unfair trade practices over alleged delay in delivery of cargo sent from India to Paraguay.

The court was hearing a matter related to alleged loss of a cargo consignment and delay … Read : Court relief for British Airways.

CII rallies behind Keshub Mahindra on Bhopal gas verdict

NEW DELHI – Industrialist Keshub Mahindra, found guilty of criminal laxity with six others in the Bhopal gas disaster, Wednesday found support from an apex chamber that wanted changes in the liabilities of non-executive directors in such incidents.

“The law regarding potential liability of non-executive and independent directors needs to undergo a change,” said a statement … Original article on : CII rallies behind Keshub Mahindra on Bhopal gas verdict.

Karnataka Lokayukta resigns

BANGALORE – Karnataka Lokayukta (Ombudsman) Santosh Hegde Wednesday resigned from the constitutional post, 14 months before his five-year term was to end.

“I have tendered my resignation letter to Governor H.R. Bhardwaj at Raj Bhavan,” Hegde told reporters here.
The resignation will be effective from Aug 31.
“The main reason for my resignation is the indifference … Read more »».

Emergency a sad period in Indian history: Kuldip Nayar (June 25 marks 35th anniversary of Emergency)

NEW DELHI – Calling the Emergency a “sad period in India’s history when we nearly lost independence”, noted journalist and civil rights activist Kuldip Nayar says “the Emergency still exists informally in the country in different forms as the rulers, with the full support of the bureaucracy, police and other sections, indulge in authoritarian …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lawyers for Kan. doctor, wife plan to appeal conspiracy, fraud convictions in painkiller case

Kan. doc to appeal conviction in painkiller case

WICHITA, Kan. – Defense attorneys plan to seek the release of a Kansas doctor and his wife while they appeal their convictions on charges they conspired to profit from illegally prescribing painkillers to patients who later died.
Jurors found Dr. Stephen Schneider and his wife, Linda, guilty Thursday. Prosecutors … Original article on : Lawyers for Kan. doctor, wife plan to appeal conspiracy, fraud convictions in painkiller case.

Brewer asks Obama for border plan details on Arizona before visit from administration aides

Brewer asks Obama for Arizona border plan details
PHOENIX – Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer is telling President Barack Obama she’s anxious for details on how his administration’s plans to tighten border security will apply to Arizona.
Brewer tells Obama in a letter released Thursday that she’d like specifics on National Guard deployments and other steps [..] Read the original article: here.

Appeals court decision means Vikings Kevin and Pat Williams might get to play all season

Ruling in drug case could clear 2 Vikes to play

MINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Court of Appeals has rejected the NFL’s request to expedite its handling of the case of Minnesota Vikings Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, which means the defensive tackles may get to play the entire upcoming season.
The players are fighting a closely watched …. Original article  : Appeals court decision means Vikings Kevin and Pat Williams might get to play all season.

Gujarat tribunal chief appointed

GANDHINAGAR – A tribunal for taking up disputes related to public works contracts will soon become functional as its chairman has been appointed, the Gujarat High Court was informed by the state government Thursday.

The state government submitted that Judicial Officer K.M. Vin has been appointed chairman of the Gujarat Public Works Contract Arbitration Tribunal.
The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gujarat tribunal chief appointed.

Rape accused Karnataka ex-minister gets bail

BANGALORE – Former Karnataka minister H. Halappa, facing a charge of raping his friend’s wife, was Thursday given conditional bail by the high court.

Justice Subash Adi directed Halappa to provide a bond for Rs. 100,000, two sureties for the like sum and report to a police station once in a fortnight.
Halappa has been in …. Original article  : Rape accused Karnataka ex-minister gets bail.

33-year-long legal battle on wages ends

NEW DELHI – The curtains have finally come down on a 33-year-long legal battle, with the Supreme Court ruling in favour of a group of now-extinct railway coach attendants who wanted higher wages.

The legal battle was started by 5,000-odd attendants, tasked to assist passengers in trains, but only about 80 of them are alive today …. Source article  : 33-year-long legal battle on wages ends.

Papers being readied to seek Anderson’s extradition: Soni

NEW DELHI – The government is readying the necessary papers to seek the extradition from the US of then Union Carbide CEO Warren Anderson, an accused in the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy case, it was announced here Thursday.

“Additional material for the extradition of Warren Anderson is being put together by the external affairs ministry and …. Read the original article  : here.

UN to investigate laws against HIV-infected people

GENEVA – The United Nations launched a commission Thursday to investigate punitive laws that harm global efforts to respond to the decades-old HIV epidemic.

The commission will “help restore the dignity of people and help us remove bad laws and save the lives of people,” the chief of the UN’s Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS, Michel Sidibe, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UN to investigate laws against HIV-infected people.

Detained Tibetan’s wife details grim torture

KATHMANDU – As China refused to release a noted Tibetan environmentalist and businessman arrested allegedly on “trumped up” robbery charges, his wife has taken to blogging in a desperate bid to tell the world of the “hundreds of different cruel torture methods” inflicted on him and fellow prisoners.

“I just didn’t recognise him,” writes Dolkar Tso, …. Read the original article  : here.

Mohit Shah sworn-in Bombay High Court chief justice

MUMBAI – Justice Mohit Shah was sworn in as the new chief justice of the Bombay High Court here Saturday.

Maharashtra Governor K. Sankaranarayanan administered the oath of office to the new chief justice at a function in Raj Bhavan.
The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, Chairman of Maharashtra Legislative Council Shivajirao … Read more »»».

Mohit Shah is new Bombay High Court chief justice

MUMBAI – Justice Mohit Shah was sworn in as the new chief justice of the Bombay High Court here Saturday.

Maharashtra Governor K. Sankaranarayanan administered the oath of office to the new chief justice at a function in Raj Bhavan.
The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, Chairman of Maharashtra Legislative Council Shivajirao Deshmukh, … Read more : Mohit Shah is new Bombay High Court chief justice.

Kolkata HC lawyers demand stern action against errant policemen

KOLKATA – Advocates of Calcutta High Court Bar staged a demonstration to protest against uncivilised behaviour of certain policemen towards women lawyers and demanded intervention of the Chief Justice to initiate appropriate action.

Volunteers of Ganatantrik Nagar Samiti of Howrah also joined the agitating lawyers in their protest.

The lawyers claimed that around 200 policemen had forcefully …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kolkata HC lawyers demand stern action against errant policemen.

Gandhi is hero for protesters at G-20 summit

TORONTO – As Toronto virtually went under lockdown before the G-20 summit beginning Saturday, anti-globalisation protesters marched through city streets to give the security forces a tough time. In one such anti-poverty protest, Mahatma Gandhi figured prominently.

As more than 200 protesters played hide and seek with security forces, one could read this message from …. Original source  : Gandhi is hero for protesters at G-20 summit.

NY judge urges other defendants, including building cleaners, to join 9/11 health settlement

NY judge: Others should join 9/11 responders’ deal

NEW YORK – The judge who approved the settlement for thousands of 9/11 first responders exposed to toxic World Trade Center dust wants other defendants to join it.
U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein released a statement Friday urging hundreds of other defendants to consider participating in the settlement. They …. Original source  : NY judge urges other defendants, including building cleaners, to join 9/11 health settlement.

Appeals court upholds decision against German Tennis Federation in lawsuit against ATP

Court rejects ATP appeal by German Tennis group

DOVER, Del. – A federal appeals court has rejected a challenge from the German Tennis Federation of a decision that cleared the way for the ATP Tour’s tournament restructuring.
A three-judge panel in Philadelphia on Friday affirmed a 2008 verdict by a federal jury in Delaware rejecting the federation’s … Read more : Appeals court upholds decision against German Tennis Federation in lawsuit against ATP.

Drugmaker Merck says it will fight $8 million compensatory damages verdict in Fosamax trial

Merck hit with $8 million verdict in Fosamax trial

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J. – Drugmaker Merck & Co. was hit Friday with an $8 million jury verdict in the case of a Florida woman who says Merck’s osteoporosis drug destroyed her jaw bone – the company’s first loss of a Fosamax trial.
Merck attorney Paul Strain said the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Drugmaker Merck says it will fight $8 million compensatory damages verdict in Fosamax trial.

Riot accused gets more time to reply to lawyer’s charge

AHMEDABAD – A special court here Friday granted Babu Bajrangi, an alleged conspirator of the 2002 communal riots at Naroda Patiya, time till June 29 to file his reply to a lawyer’s plea seeking cancellation of his bail for threatening him.

Advocate R.A. Sheikh, who represents a few victims of the massacre case, alleged that …. Read the original article  : here.

Court appoints observer for IMA elections

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday appointed an observer to conduct the Indian Medical Association (IMA) elections.

The court also asked the IMA to restore the name of its former president K.K. Agarwal, which was removed from the list of central council members making him ineligible from contesting this year’s elections.
Hearing Agarwal’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Court appoints observer for IMA elections.

Nanavati panel’s stand June 30 on summoning Modi

GANDHINAGAR – The suspense on the stand of the Nanavati-Mehta judicial inquiry commission, probing the 2002 communal riots in Gujarat, on summoning Chief Minister Narendra Modi for questioning will continue till June 30.

The state government pleader Friday submitted a sealed cover to Gujarat High Court’s special bench of Chief Justice S.J.Mukhopadhyaya and Justice Akil … Read more »»».

Making Europe a destination for Indian workers: Vayalar Ravi

NEW DELHI – The problem of illegal migration, especially to the Gulf, is a priority for Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi who has even personally attended to distress calls from Indians abroad. He is also focussing on making Europe a destination for Indian workers.

A key initiative of his six-year-old ministry was the creation of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Making Europe a destination for Indian workers: Vayalar Ravi.

‘Proposed law against communal violence in negotiation stage’

NEW DELHI – A proposed law against communal violence, which the central government is reported to have drafted, is still in the negotiation stage, representatives of civil society said Saturday.

“I saw these articles (in the media) which said that the government had incorporated the bill. This bill has not been incorporated till now, the … Read more >>.

Kashmir rights panel chief to probe Sopore firing

SRINAGAR – The Jammu and Kashmir government Saturday appointed state human rights commission chief Justice (retd) Syed Bashir-ud-Din to conduct an enquiry into Friday’s firing incident in Sopore in which two youth were killed.

According to an official statement here, the commission will enquire into: “The causes of death of Shakeel Ahmad Ganai, son of Abdul … Read : Kashmir rights panel chief to probe Sopore firing.

Report: Britain to impose temporary cap on economic migrants from outside the European Union

Report: UK to impose temporary cap on migrants

LONDON – A newspaper is reporting that Britain’s new government intends to impose a temporary limit on the number of foreign workers from outside the European Union it allows into the country.
The Times said Home Secretary Theresa May will announce a maximum of 24,100 workers from outside the …. Original source  : Report: Britain to impose temporary cap on economic migrants from outside the European Union.

Kerala takes over golf course

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – After a nearly three-year-long legal battle, the Kerala government Saturday took over the Trivandrum Golf Club (TGC) and its 9-hole course situated in the heart of this capital city.

Armed with an interim Supreme Court judgment, Thiruvananthapuram Tahsildar Madhu Janardhanan led a team of revenue department officials to take possession of the club. The …. Original source  : Kerala takes over golf course.

Notice issued to Karnataka on proposed military memorial

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notice to the Karnataka government on a petition challenging the proposed setting up of the National Military Memorial at the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park in Bangalore.

The vacation bench headed by justice R.M. Lodha and comprising Justice A.K. Patnaik, however, declined to order status quo. The notice … Read : Notice issued to Karnataka on proposed military memorial.

British government under pressure over non-EU migration

LONDON – The British government is reportedly under pressure from coalition partners, the Liberal Democrats, to ensure that the proposed cap on non-EU economic migration to Britain does not affect the domestic economy.

Appearing on the BBC Monday, hours before announcing the proposed cap, Home Secretary Theresa May said the government will “ensure that the brightest …. Original source  : British government under pressure over non-EU migration.

Britain’s non-EU immigration cap may face hiccups

LONDON – Britain’s proposed cap on non-EU immigration to avoid a last-ditch influx into the country may run into rough weather as it is not applicable to non-EU migrants granted refugee status here or their dependents.

Labour has accused the coalition government of diluting the new immigration rules, including the compulsory English testing for non-EU … Read : Britain’s non-EU immigration cap may face hiccups.

EU to ban selling eggs by the dozen

LONDON – Shopkeepers in the European Union (EU) will be banned from selling eggs or fruit by the dozen under new food labelling regulations proposed by the European parliament, a media report said.

Under the draft legislation, meant to come into force next year, sale of food items in the EU using the simple measurement of [..] Read the original article: here.

Israeli court frees ultra-Orthodox parents who defied school segregation ruling

Parents freed in Israeli school segregation row

JERUSALEM – Israel’s Supreme Court has freed a group of ultra-Orthodox Jewish parents who were jailed for violating an order banning segregation in a West Bank girls’ school.
A court spokeswoman said on Sunday that under a compromise, the girls will study together until the end of the school year, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israeli court frees ultra-Orthodox parents who defied school segregation ruling.

Four Uttar Pradesh ministers to move high court in blasphemy case

LUCKNOW – Four ministers in the Mayawati government will move the Allahabad High Court against a lower court order on registration of a criminal case against them for publication of an allegedly blasphemous article in a journal.

The order against Naseemuddin Siddiqui, Babu Singh Kushwaha, Swami Prasad Maurya and Daddu Prasad was issued by Chief Judicial …. Original source  : Four Uttar Pradesh ministers to move high court in blasphemy case.

Australia shouldn’t have a big population: Gillard

MELBOURNE – In an apparent policy shift on Australia’s ever-growing population, mainly due to immigration, Prime Minister Julia Gillard said she does not believe in a “big Australia”, but supports the idea of controlled immigration for a population the country can support.

Breaking away from the policies of the Kevin Rudd administration, Gillard said the nation … Read more : Australia shouldn’t have a big population: Gillard.

Non-EU immigration cap rule may face hiccups in Britain

LONDON – Britain’s proposed cap on non-EU immigration to avoid a last-ditch influx into the country may run into rough weather as it is not applicable to non-EU migrants granted refugee status here or their dependents.

Labour has accused the coalition government of diluting the new immigration rules, including the compulsory English testing for non-EU …. Original source  : Non-EU immigration cap rule may face hiccups in Britain.

Suit claims medical records of porn actresses overexposed by Los Angeles adult industry clinic

Lawsuit: Medical records of porn stars overexposed

LOS ANGELES – Two former porn actresses say their private medical information was wrongly exposed by a Los Angeles clinic that caters to the adult film industry.
Diana Lee Grandmason and Bess Garren said Monday they are suing because the release forms actors are required to sign at the Adult …. Original source  : Suit claims medical records of porn actresses overexposed by Los Angeles adult industry clinic.

Britain sets interim limit on non-EU migration

LONDON – The British government Monday set an interim limit of 24,100 on non-EU migration to the country, ahead of a permanent cap to be introduced next April after consulting businesses and gauging the needs of the economy.

Announcing this in parliament, Home Secretary Theresa May said: “This is only one part of our policy to … Read more »»».

Gujarat lawyers protest corruption in judiciary

GANDHINAGAR – Lawyers Monday began a two-day token fast outside the Gujarat High Court to protest alleged corruption in the lower judiciary.

Anil Patel, president of the Gujarat unit of Indian Association of Lawyers, said that all the office bearers of association would continue the token fast on Tuesday as well.
“We plan to present a … Original article on : Gujarat lawyers protest corruption in judiciary.

Apex court comes to aid of Karnataka doctors in rural areas

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday ruled that Karnataka government doctors working in the rural areas of the state would get weightage for getting admission to post graduate courses and choosing the specialised medical discipline they want to pursue.

The hurdle in the way of rural doctors getting the specialised discipline of their choice …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Apex court comes to aid of Karnataka doctors in rural areas.

Temporary cap on non-EU migration diluted already?

LONDON – The proposed temporary cap on non-EU migration may have already been diluted in the face of pressure from political parties, businesses and universities, it is learnt.

The “flexibility” in the cap wanted by Liberal Democrats like Business Secretary Vince Cable and businesses, will mean that internal transfers of staff by multinational companies – which …. Source article  : Temporary cap on non-EU migration diluted already?.

Court grills AIIMS on post-graduation seats

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday questioned the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on allocation of seats to students in post-graduation courses.

The vacation bench of Justice M.C. Garg directed the AIIMS to explain by June 30 as to how the all-India level seats were allocated.
The court was hearing a petition … Read more : Court grills AIIMS on post-graduation seats.

Fla. estate battle features $3M set aside for care of 3 pet Chihuahuas in island mansion

Fla. estate battle features $3M for pet Chihuahuas

MIAMI – Conchita, Lucia and April Marie are used to a luxurious life in an island mansion. With a $3 million trust fund from the will of an heiress, they’ll never have to worry about a thing. What sets the three apart is that they’re Chihuahuas.
The three little … Read more »».

Karnataka’s response sought on plea against military memorial

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday sought the Karnataka government’s response on a petition challenging the proposed National Military Memorial to come up at Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park in Bangalore.

Issuing the notice, returnable in four weeks, the vacation bench of Justice R.M. Lodha and Justice A.K. Patnaik, however, declined to order status quo. …. Read the original article  : Karnataka’s response sought on plea against military memorial.

Court asks Air India to de-seal staff union offices

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday directed Air India’s holding company, National Aviation Company of India Ltd (NACIL), to de-seal the employees’ union offices that were sealed during a strike last month.

The vacation bench of Justice M.C. Garg directed NACIL to de-seal all the union offices across the country and posted the matter …. Original source  : Court asks Air India to de-seal staff union offices.

Modi will be given a fair trial: Srinivisan

NEW DELHI – Indian cricket board secretary N.Srinivisan has said the July 3 Special General Meeting (SGM) has not been convened to sack suspended Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi. Srinivisan said Modi will get a fair trial and rubbished claims that he is acting out of “personal grudge.”

Srinivisan has rejected the replies of … Read more »».

Air India loses labour battle in Nepal

KATHMANDU – India’s flag carrier Air India has lost a protracted labour battle in Nepal with the country’s apex court ruling that the airline would have to abide by Nepal’s labour laws while operating in Nepal.

The verdict delivered Tuesday by Supreme Court judges Khilaraj Regmi and Bharatraj Upreti comes as a blow for India’s oldest …. Original article  : Air India loses labour battle in Nepal.

Infamous ‘golden’ comment by Blagojevich to feature as testimony continues at corruption trial

Blago’s ‘golden’ comment makes appearance at trial
CHICAGO – Rod Blagojevich’s profanity-laced comment about not giving up his power to appoint Barack Obama’s successor in the U.S. Senate for nothing will likely reappear at the former governor’s corruption trial.
Prosecutors played the infamous wiretap recording in which Blagojevich colorfully describes the opportunity to name a …. Source article  : Infamous ‘golden’ comment by Blagojevich to feature as testimony continues at corruption trial.

SEC paying $755K to settle with former staff lawyer who investigated prominent hedge fund

SEC paying $755K to settle with fired lawyer

WASHINGTON – The Securities and Exchange Commission is paying $755,000 to settle a lawsuit with a former staff lawyer who accused the agency of blocking his investigation of a prominent hedge fund.
The SEC settlement of Gary Aguirre’s wrongful termination claim was announced Tuesday by the Government Accountability Project.
Aguirre …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kagan: Judges must intervene if president, Congress overstep authority but aren’t policymakers

Kagan: Role of court is not to set public policy

WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan says the judiciary should intervene if a president oversteps his authority but that judges must be mindful they are not policymakers.
Kagan was responding Tuesday to a line of questioning from Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold about the role of courts …. Original source  : Kagan: Judges must intervene if president, Congress overstep authority but aren’t policymakers.

Kagan tells Judiciary Committee she admires Justice Marshall, but will be herself on court

Kagan testifies she’ll be her own person on bench

WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan says she admires Justice Thurgood Marshall but would think and act for herself if confirmed for the high court.
In an exchange Tuesday with Republican Sen. John Kyl of Arizona, Kagan was asked about an article she had written picking up … Original article on : Kagan tells Judiciary Committee she admires Justice Marshall, but will be herself on court.

Berlusconi assailant acquitted

Milan, June 29 (IANS/AKI) An Italian judge Tuesday acquitted the mentally unbalanced man who attacked Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi at a political rally last year on grounds of diminished responsibility.

Judge Luisa Savoia ruled that Massimo Tartaglia be placed under a control order for a year and obey a community psychiatric therapy centre director’s orders …. Original article  : Berlusconi assailant acquitted.

No action against MPs for not disclosing assets: Activist

NEW DELHI – Four months after a right to information (RTI) plea revealed that 70 Lok Sabha members had not declared their assets to the speaker, the authorities have yet to take any action, a transparency law activist said Tuesday.

The information was disclosed Feb 24 in a reply to the RTI application filed by Subhash … Read more »».

Birla Corporation completes adjourned AGM

KOLKATA – Birla Corporation, the M.P. Birla Group flagship company controlled by the Lodhas, Tuesday finished its re-scheduled 90th annual general meeting (AGM).

The AGM was adjourned June 23 following an order of the Alipore Court. A company shareholder, owning 200 shares, had moved the court on the issue of postal ballots and obtained an ex … Read : Birla Corporation completes adjourned AGM.

Kagan embraces living Constitution; Says Framers understood need for adaptation to change

Kagan embraces notion of living Constitution

WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan is calling the Constitution a living document, saying it’s framers wrote it to last through ever-changing circumstances.
Her remarks in an exchange with Sen. Patrick Leahy on the second day of confirmation hearings touched on suggestions by Republican critics that she would legislate from …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kagan embraces living Constitution; Says Framers understood need for adaptation to change.

Berlusconi attacker found unfit for trial, placed under psychiatric care

Berlusconi attacker found unfit for trial
MILAN – The man who hurled a statuette at Premier Silvio Berlusconi, leaving the bloodied Italian leader with a broken nose and two broken teeth, is not fit to stand trial, a judge ruled Tuesday.

Judge Luisa Savoia, however, placed Massimo Tartaglia under observation for one year in a psychiatric hospital …. Source  : Gaea News Network.