Nepal: UML to field its PM candidate today

KATHMANDU – The CPN (UML), the third largest party in the Constituent Assembly (CA) will here today decide to name its candidate for the prime minister’s post.

A standing committee meeting of the party held at party headquarters, Balkhu on Sunday decided to finalise whether to field a candidate for the post or support Nepali … Original article on : Nepal: UML to field its PM candidate today.

Cameron leaves for US amid fears over Lockerbie bomber’s release row

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron leaves for a two-day trip for the United States today amid concerns that the row of the Lockerbie bomber, Abdelbaset al-Megrahi’s release, might derail his summit with President Barack Obama.

According to The Sun, No 10 expressed its worries recently that the Lockerbie row could overshadow Cameron’s one-to-one meeting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cameron leaves for US amid fears over Lockerbie bomber’s release row.

BJP leaders meet to discuss W. Bengal election strategy

KOLKATA – Senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) met here on Sunday to chart out their strategy for the upcoming assembly elections.

Arun Jaitley, senior BJP leader, told media persons that voters in Bengal have turned anti-Left in a big way, and was hopeful about capturing some anti- Left votes.

“In 1991 …. Original source  : BJP leaders meet to discuss W. Bengal election strategy.

Pak-US strategic dialogue to enhance bilateral ties: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed satisfaction over the successful track meetings of the Pakistan-US strategic dialogue, saying that they would strengthen bilateral ties.

After a meeting with visiting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Gilani said that Pakistan had prepared a set of documents envisaging future plans for taking …. Original article  : Pak-US strategic dialogue to enhance bilateral ties: Gilani.

‘Goa government appointed 1,423 committees in three years’

PANAJI – Over the last three years, Goa has appointed 1,423 government committees at the rate of more than one per day, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said Monday.

Nearly 722 committees, half the number, have not even met in the last three years after they were formed, opposition benches pointed out during Question Hour in … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Goa government appointed 1,423 committees in three years’.

Clinton meets Zardari, discusses drone attacks

ISLAMABAD – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton met Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and discussed a host of issues, including the drone attacks that Pakistan says undermines national consensus against the war on militancy.
Clinton, who was leading a high level US delegation, met Zardari Sunday evening.
Pakistani news agency APP reported …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Clinton meets Zardari, discusses drone attacks.

Omar Abdullah likely to reshuffle cabinet

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is planning a cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening his government and may also drop some tainted ministers from the cabinet, sources here said Monday.
Abdullah, who returned Sunday after after meeting United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Home Minister P. Chidambaram in New … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Omar Abdullah likely to reshuffle cabinet.

Israel should open Gaza crossings: EU

JERUSALEM/GAZA CITY – Israel should allow exports from the Gaza Strip, European Union High Representative Catherine Ashton said, as she toured the enclave Sunday and said the EU would continue to demand that Gaza crossing terminals become completely operational.

Ashton called on Israel to allow exports from the Gaza Strip as she toured the enclave for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Israel should open Gaza crossings: EU.

US troops to withdraw in time from Iraq: Biden

WASHINGTON – US combat troops in Iraq are on schedule to withdraw by the end of August this year, and would not be delayed by power-sharing negotiations in the Iraqi government, US Vice President Joe Biden said Sunday.

Biden told ABC the Iraqi transition government is “in place that’s working. Iraqi security is being provided by … Read more : US troops to withdraw in time from Iraq: Biden.

AIDS conference chief calls for universal access to treatment of deadly disease

AIDS conference chief lashes out at world leaders

VIENNA – World leaders lack the political will to ensure that everyone infected with HIV and AIDS gets treatment, the head of a meeting dedicated to the disease said Sunday.
Julio Montaner – the president of the International AIDS Society and chairman of the AIDS 2010 conference – said …. Original article  : AIDS conference chief calls for universal access to treatment of deadly disease.

Hillary Clinton says both she and former president will be ’so emotional’ at Chelsea’s wedding

Clinton: Daughter’s wedding is nerve-racking
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says daughter Chelsea’s approaching wedding is making nervous wrecks of both parents.
In an interview with NBC’s Andrea Mitchell in Islamabad on Sunday, Clinton was asked about former President Bill Clinton’s role in the ceremony.
“You should assume that if he …. Original source  : Hillary Clinton says both she and former president will be ’so emotional’ at Chelsea’s wedding.

Surprise SC Senate candidate finally campaigns, stumping about job creation and education

Surprise SC Senate candidate makes first speech

MANNING, S.C. – In his first campaign appearance, South Carolina’s surprising U.S. Senate candidate Alvin Greene avoided any major gaffes Sunday as he hit his three major themes of jobs, education and justice.
The speech started off with a joke and ended with Greene timidly waving, a shy smile spreading … Original source on Gaea Times at : Surprise SC Senate candidate finally campaigns, stumping about job creation and education.

After a bobble by Gibbs, Democrats score fall elections as a win while GOP predicts victory

Both GOP and Dems predict victory in fall contests
WASHINGTON – Vice President Joe Biden is assuring House Democrats that he thinks they’ll keep control after the fall elections. Only a week ago, President Barack Obama’s press secretary infuriated members of his own party by suggesting that voters could put Republicans in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : After a bobble by Gibbs, Democrats score fall elections as a win while GOP predicts victory.

Golf carts taking off in Colorado town after ordinance makes them street-legal

Golf carts all the rage in Lyons, Colo.
LYONS, Colo. – One Colorado town is starting to look a bit like a Florida golf resort.

Now that golf carts have been made street-legal in Lyons, more residents are turning to the cheap, energy-efficient carts for short trips.
About 20 residents in the Boulder County town have taken to …. Read the original article  : here.

At Kabul conference, Afghan government to ask donors to put money behind Afghan priorities

Afghan govt wants donors to support its priorities

KABUL, Afghanistan – At an international conference on Tuesday, the Afghan government will ask donors to put 80 percent of aid money behind programs that the Afghans – not foreign capitals – deem important to development.
It’s a high-stakes meeting for the Kabul government, which wants to show the … Original source on Gaea Times at : At Kabul conference, Afghan government to ask donors to put money behind Afghan priorities.

Growers warn of ‘McDonald’s-ization’ of marijuana under Oakland plan to tax pot cultivation

Oakland pot-growing plan worries small bud tenders

OAKLAND, Calif. – California’s medical marijuana growers see a new threat to their tenuous existence: the “Wal-Marting” of weed.
The Oakland City Council will look Tuesday at licensing four production plants where pot would be grown, packaged and processed into items ranging from baked goods to body oil.
The move has …. Original source  : Growers warn of ‘McDonald’s-ization’ of marijuana under Oakland plan to tax pot cultivation.

Egypt says more work to be done before direct Israeli-Palestinian peace talks

Egypt: basis to move to direct peace talks lacking
CAIRO – Pressure intensified on Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to agree to direct talks with Israel as Egypt held separate back-to-back meetings with the two sides Sunday in search of a compromise.
Abbas says he won’t negotiate directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unless Israel … Read more : Egypt says more work to be done before direct Israeli-Palestinian peace talks.

Biden: Tea party not a racist organization, just has very different views on government

Biden doesn’t see tea party as a racist group
WASHINGTON – Vice President Joe Biden says the tea party movement is conservative and has very different ideas about government, but it’s not a racist organization.
Biden tells ABC’s “This Week” that some people who’ve participated in tea party events or who’ve been on the periphery …. Read the original article  : Biden: Tea party not a racist organization, just has very different views on government.

BJP sees itself as alternative to Left, Trinamool in Bengal

KOLKATA – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would try emerging as a key player in the West Bengal assembly polls next year by cashing-in on the anti-Left feelings of the people and the “atmosphere of anarchy” being created by the Trinamool Congress.
The party is also toying with the idea of conducting a …. Original source  : BJP sees itself as alternative to Left, Trinamool in Bengal.

Maoists kill TMC leader in West Bengal

BANKURA – Maoists have killed a Trinamool Congress (TMC) party leader in Simlapal village in West Bengal’s Bankura District.

TMC leader Samir Pal was killed on Saturday night and the body was found in a pond on Sunday morning.

According to villagers, a group of Maoists had kidnapped Pal from his house, and took away all … Read more >>.

Goa assembly adjourned twice over drug nexus probe

PANAJI – The Goa assembly was adjourned twice Tuesday after opposition members stormed the well of the House demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the police-politician-drug mafia nexus here.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, who refused to accede to the opposition demand, also had to face embarrassing salvos from several ruling members who [..] Read the original article: here.

Colorado city’s proposed rules would bar public from shouting, disrobing at council meetings

Colo. city would bar disrobing at council meetings

BOULDER, Colo. – Civil rights advocates in Colorado are urging a city council to reconsider a set of proposed roles that would bar people from taking off their clothes, stomping their feet and shouting at council meetings.
Boulder’s so-called “rules of decorum” were inspired by an incident earlier this …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cameron urges to end fixation over ’special relationship’ with US

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has said that the “special relationship” between Britain and the United States is coming to an end.

In an article in the Wall Street Journal, Cameron urges everyone to stop taking the relationship’s pulse every second, and recognize that Britain and the US will search the globe for a …. Read the original article  : here.

Departing UN official calls Ban’s leadership ‘deplorable’

UNITED NATIONS – In a stinging rebuke of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, an outgoing official charged with combating corruption in the world body has accused him of having failed to maintain accountability, a media report said Tuesday.

Inga-Britt Ahlenius, a Swedish auditor who stepped down Friday as undersecretary general of the Office of Internal Oversight … Read : Departing UN official calls Ban’s leadership ‘deplorable’.

US defense chief Gates says he and Clinton will make unprecedented visit to Koreas’ DMZ

Gates, Clinton to visit DMZ dividing 2 Koreas
SEOUL, South Korea – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will make an unprecedented trip together to the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two Koreas, meeting Wednesday with troops along one of the world’s most heavily fortified borders.
Gates made the announcement …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US defense chief Gates says he and Clinton will make unprecedented visit to Koreas’ DMZ.

Nepal political parties discuss new government formation

KATHMANDU – With just a day left for the election of a new Prime Minister in Nepal, political parties have intensified their internal and bilateral discussions on government formation.

The UCPN (Maoist) on Tuesday decided to wait for the CPN-UML decision concerning the leadership in the government.

Maoist Secretary CP Gajurel has said the party has been …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Agnivesh slams govt for Maoist Azad’s encounter

LUCKNOW – Claiming that Union Home Minister P.Chidambaram had authorised him to broker peace with maoists , well known spiritual cum social activist Swami Agnivesh on Monday flayed the government for gunning down

Maoist leader Cherukuri Raj Kumar alias Azad , in Andhra Pradesh on July 2 last
The 55 – year old top Maoist … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Agnivesh slams govt for Maoist Azad’s encounter.

Iran’s parliament adopts bill to retaliate against international inspection of its cargo

Iran’s parliament adopts bill against inspections

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s parliament has adopted a bill authorizing tit-for-tat retaliation against countries that inspect Iranian ships and aircraft as part of the latest set of U.N. sanctions slapped on Tehran.
Iran’s State radio broadcast the Tuesday parliament session live.
The bill follows last month’s U.N. Security Council resolution to impose … Read more >>>.

Naidu, colleagues sent to Aurangabad jail

NANDED/HYDERABAD – Amid high drama, protests by Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders and caning by the police, party chief Chandrababu Naidu and his supporters were Tuesday moved from Dharmabad in Maharashtra’s Nanded district to the Aurangabad Central Jail.

Naidu and his colleagues, who were remanded to judicial custody till July 26, will be lodged at … Read more »».

California judge to review discovery plan in lawsuits over alleged defects in Toyota vehicles

Calif. judge to review Toyota case discovery plan

SANTA ANA, Calif. – A federal judge in Southern California will review a plan to share information in the sprawling litigation involving alleged defects in some Toyota vehicles.
A hearing Tuesday before U.S. District Judge James Selna will focus on the first phase of discovery where attorneys for both … Original article on : California judge to review discovery plan in lawsuits over alleged defects in Toyota vehicles.

BP controversies stealing thunder from David Cameron’s trip to Washington

BP stealing thunder from Cameron’s US visit
WASHINGTON – On the way to Washington, British Prime Minister David Cameron said he wants to talk about Afghanistan, Middle East peace prospects and the global economy.
Everyone else wants to talk about BP.
Cameron’s first trip to Washington as prime minister begins Tuesday and is being overshadowed by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BP controversies stealing thunder from David Cameron’s trip to Washington.

Kagan faces first vote Tuesday on nomination to Supreme Court

Committee vote Tuesday on Kagan court nomination
WASHINGTON – Elena Kagan is facing the first vote on her nomination to the Supreme Court before a Senate panel dominated by Democrats who are all but certain to support her. The only real question is whether Kagan will get any Republican votes.
The Senate Judiciary Committee is … Read : Kagan faces first vote Tuesday on nomination to Supreme Court.

Bailiffs evict anti-war protesters from London’s Parliament Square

Bailiffs evict protesters from London’s square

LONDON – Bailiffs moved in early Tuesday to evict anti-war protesters from Parliament Square Gardens in central London.
Authorities moved to clear out the camp opposite the Houses of Parliament at 1 a.m. Tuesday.
The Court of Appeal earlier this month backed London Mayor Boris Johnson in his effort to clear the … Read : Bailiffs evict anti-war protesters from London’s Parliament Square.

Senate to question James Clapper on how he’d fix national intelligence as its director

Intelligence director nominee faces a grilling
WASHINGTON – Tough questions and blunt answers are likely Tuesday when retired Air Force Gen. James T. Clapper goes before the Senate Intelligence Committee seeking confirmation as the next director of national intelligence.
Clapper is expected to explain how he would streamline the massive flow of information …. Original article  : Senate to question James Clapper on how he’d fix national intelligence as its director.

Ousted Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich expected to follow brother Robert on witness stand

Blago expected to follow brother to witness stand
CHICAGO – Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich may finally step into the witness box at his corruption trial.
The ousted governor is expected to testify Tuesday, though exactly when will depend partly on how quickly prosecutors finish cross-examining his brother, who also is charged.
For most of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ousted Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich expected to follow brother Robert on witness stand.

Karzai reaffirms goal to have Afghan security forces taking lead by 2014

Karzai reaffirms 2014 date for Afghan-led security
KABUL, Afghanistan – President Hamid Karzai on Tuesday reaffirmed his commitment for Afghan police and soldiers to take charge of security throughout the nation by 2014 and urged his international partners to spend their money on Afghan priorities not “quick-impact” projects.
Karzai spoke at an international …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Karzai reaffirms goal to have Afghan security forces taking lead by 2014.

Rabri Devi out of chief ministerial race this election

PATNA – She has been chief minister for eight years, but Rabri Devi may be out of the reckoning this time with the view that only her husband and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad or partner LJP’s Ram Vilas Paswan can counter Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in the Bihar assembly polls.

In fact, Lalu Prasad himself has …. Source  : Rabri Devi out of chief ministerial race this election.

Naidu, colleagues being moved to Aurangabad jail

NANDED – Amid high drama, protests and caning by the police, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Chandrababu Naidu and his colleagues were Tuesday moved from Dharmabad to the Aurangabad Central Jail, around 350 km from here.

Naidu and his supporters, who were remanded to judicial custody till July 26, shall be lodged in the Aurangabad Central … Read more »»».

Cameron refuses to meet US senators on BP-Lockerbie row

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has refused to meet American senators to formally discuss allegations that BP had lobbied for the release of Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi.

Senators Kirsten Gillibrand, Charles Schumer, Frank Lautenberg, and Bob Menendez had requested for a meeting with Cameron this week.

The senators have been calling for an … Read more : Cameron refuses to meet US senators on BP-Lockerbie row.

Kabul conference opens with Afghan leader urging more Afghan control of donor funds, security

Karzai calls for more control of funds, security
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghanistan’s president urged international partners to help Afghanistan move toward responsibility for its own security and government programs, as an ambitious international conference in the Afghan capital opened Tuesday.
Delegates at the one-day conference are expected to adopt a plan that involves transferring security … Original article on : Kabul conference opens with Afghan leader urging more Afghan control of donor funds, security.

Clinton announces new US sanctions against defiant North Korea to stop nuclear proliferation

Clinton announces new sanctions against NKorea

SEOUL, South Korea – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton announced Wednesday that Washington will impose new sanctions on communist North Korea in a bid to stem the regime’s illicit atomic ambitions.
Clinton, speaking at a joint news conference in Seoul after holding unprecedented security talks with U.S. and South … Read : Clinton announces new US sanctions against defiant North Korea to stop nuclear proliferation.

Congress issues gag order on senior leaders

NEW DELHI – The Congress party has issued a circular asking its top leaders not to speak out of turn.

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary Janardhan Dwivedi has formally written to all AICC office bearers and Congress Working Committee (CWC) members saying that they should express their views publically or interact … Read more >>.

Slippers hurled at Bihar Speaker, 17 RJD, LJP MLAs suspended

PATNA – Seventeen MLAs from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) parties have been suspended for the rest of the session on Wednesday after they threw slippers at Speaker Udai Narain Choudhry.

Those suspended included ten RJD MLAs, two from LJP, one each from the CPIM and CPI-ML and two independents. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Slippers hurled at Bihar Speaker, 17 RJD, LJP MLAs suspended.

16 legislators suspended from Bihar assembly

PATNA – Sixteen opposition legislators in Bihar were suspended for unruly behaviour in the assembly Wednesday, prompting a member to hurl a shoe at the speaker.

Speaker Uday Narain Choudhary suspended the 16, mostly from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), while they demanded Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s resignation over … Read more >>.

Clinton: US will impose new sanctions on defiant North Korea to stop nuclear proliferation

Clinton: US will impose new sanctions on NKorea

SEOUL, South Korea – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says Washington will impose new sanctions on communist North Korea.
Clinton said at a joint press conference in Seoul on Wednesday the sanctions are part of a series of measures designed to stop nuclear proliferation. She says the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Clinton: US will impose new sanctions on defiant North Korea to stop nuclear proliferation.

Will Blagojevich backpedal on vow to testify at corruption trial? Decision to come quickly

Will Blagojevich backpedal on vow to testify?

CHICAGO – Will he or won’t he testify?
That’s the question that hangs in the air about former Gov. Rod Blagojevich as his corruption trial resumes Wednesday morning.
The impeached governor’s attorneys dropped a bombshell at the end of the day Tuesday when they said they could rest their case without …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Will Blagojevich backpedal on vow to testify at corruption trial? Decision to come quickly.

55 percent Italians want Berlusconi to go

Rome, July 21 (IANS/AKI) The popularity of the beleaguered Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has fallen to its lowest level since he was elected for a third term in April 2008.

A majority of Italians (55 percent) say they don’t support his conservative government while 39-41 percent want the media moghul-turned-politician to quit, according Rome-based survey … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 55 percent Italians want Berlusconi to go.

Ex-media mogul accused of defrauding investors could leave prison Wed., judge to set terms

Ex-media mogul Conrad Black may leave prison Wed.

CHICAGO – Former media mogul Conrad Black could stroll out of federal prison just two years into his 6??-year sentence, but it’s unclear whether he’ll be a free man.
A federal judge in Chicago will set conditions of his release Wednesday, the same day he could leave a prison …. Source article  : Ex-media mogul accused of defrauding investors could leave prison Wed., judge to set terms.

India, Pakistan walk the tired road to peace (Comment)

The India-Pakistan meltdown took place only days ago. But it seemed one was reading an old novel with a jaded storyline. Except that the leading protagonists were new.
It would be na??ve to put the diplomatic disaster in Islamabad last week to the undiplomatic conduct of the host foreign minister or the errors on … Original article on : India, Pakistan walk the tired road to peace (Comment).

Voting for new Nepal PM today

KATHMANDU – The voting process for electing a new Nepal Prime Minister will take place on Wednesday.

The race for the prime minister’s post will be between the big three leaders of the major three parties.

UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias Prachanda, Nepali Congress (NC) Parliamentary Party Leader Ram Chandra Poudel and CPN-UML Chairman Jhala …. Source  : Voting for new Nepal PM today.

Cameron says Lockerbie bomber Al Megrahi should have been left in jail to die

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron, during his three-hour-long talk with the US President Barack Obama in Washington, has said that the decision to release Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Al Megrahi was wrong, and insisted that he should have been left in jail to die rather than setting him free.
“Releasing the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gilani rebukes Clinton, says Laden, Mullah Omar not in Pak

ISLAMABAD – Rejecting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s statement that some “elements” in the Pakistan government know where Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden is hiding, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that any information regarding the terror warlord’s whereabouts must be shared with Islamabad to enable it to take strong action.
Talking …. Read the original article  : Gilani rebukes Clinton, says Laden, Mullah Omar not in Pak.

New Maoist-communist government or failed poll in Nepal?

KATHMANDU – As Nepal’s parliament readied to hold the third prime ministerial election in less than two years, the turbulent republic swung between a new communist-Maoist coalition and the spectre of an inconclusive prime ministerial poll Wednesday with none of the three contenders able to muster the required support.

With minutes left before the election, the …. Original source  : New Maoist-communist government or failed poll in Nepal?.

Buddhadeb skips CPI-M central committee meet

NEW DELHI – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee skipped the crucial two-day meeting of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) central committee which began here Wednesday, party sources said.
The meeting is intended to finalise the draft document for the extended central committee meeting to be held in Vijayawada Aug 7-10.
“He …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bangladesh set to review its constitution

DHAKA – A parliamentary committee to be announced Wednesday will begin a review of Bangladesh’s constitution.
Main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has kept out of what was billed an all-party body. It decided Tuesday night to stay away and announced the continuation of its anti-government stir with a hunger strike Sunday.
BNP …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

TDP agitation in Maharashtra inspired by Congress, alleges Shiv Sena

MUMBAI – The Shiv Sena Wednesday alleged that the Congress government in Maharashtra was soft on the Chandrababu Naidu issue to help divert attention from the statewide political rallies by Andhra Pradesh Congress leader and MP Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.

In an editorial in Saamna, the party mouthpiece, the Sena said that Jagan, as the MP …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : TDP agitation in Maharashtra inspired by Congress, alleges Shiv Sena.

Police: 2 killed in attack on Russian hydropower station

Police: 2 killed in Russian power station attack

ROSTOV-ON-DON, Russia – Police say assailants launched an attack on a hydroelectric station in southern Russia, killing two workers and setting off bombs.
The attack early Wednesday took place in Kabardino-Balkariya, one of the republics in Russia’s restive Caucasus region where clashes with insurgents are frequent.
A spokesman for the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Police: 2 killed in attack on Russian hydropower station.

Westernised elite after my blood : Rural Development Minister C P Joshi (Interview)

NEW DELHI – Rural Development Minister C P Joshi, often rated as an “underperformer” by the media, says it is a “small section of the westernised urban elite and the English media that are criticising him without any basis” and he is satisfied that the “rural development schemes are creating awareness and hope …. Original source  : Westernised elite after my blood : Rural Development Minister C P Joshi (Interview).

Rage Against the Machine to play concert for immigration activists, promote boycott of Arizona

Rage Against the Machine to plug Arizona boycott

LOS ANGELES – Rage Against the Machine will push for artists and musicians to boycott Arizona because of its new and restrictive immigration law.
The politically outspoken rap-rock band’s lead singer, Zach de la Rocha, plans to announce Wednesday that proceeds from a concert in Los Angeles on Friday …. Original source  : Rage Against the Machine to play concert for immigration activists, promote boycott of Arizona.

Clinton, Gates make rare visit to heavily fortified DMZ dividing North and South Korea

Clinton, Gates visit DMZ dividing 2 Koreas
PANMUNJOM, Korea – Standing at the spot that divides North and South Korea, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton urged North Korea on Wednesday to turn away from the isolation that has left its people suffering.
Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates paid a rare visit …. Source article  : Clinton, Gates make rare visit to heavily fortified DMZ dividing North and South Korea.

Woman who accused NY governor’s top aide of domestic violence vows to refile charges

Woman vows to refile charges against NY gov’s aide

NEW YORK – The woman who brought domestic violence allegations against a former top aide of New York Gov. David Paterson says she plans to refile charges in the case.
Sherr-una Booker told WNBC-TV she wants former boyfriend David Johnson to be held criminally responsible for assaulting her …. Read the original article  : here.

US defense secretary says US will resume cooperation with Indonesia’s feared special forces

US to resume ties to Indonesia’s special forces
JAKARTA, Indonesia – The United States announced Thursday it will resume cooperation with Indonesia’s feared special forces after ties were severed more than a decade ago over human rights abuses committed by the commando unit.
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates made the announcement after meeting with Indonesia’s …. Source article  : US defense secretary says US will resume cooperation with Indonesia’s feared special forces.

US admits ISI-Taliban link, allays India’s Afghan worries

NEW DELHI – Days after India-Pakistan talks broke down on the issue of terror, the US Thursday pointed out links between the Taliban and Pakistani spy agency ISI and assured India that its role in Afghanistan was “not being diminished” to the advantage of Islamabad.
Lauding New Delhi’s role in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US admits ISI-Taliban link, allays India’s Afghan worries.

Mamata Banerjee accuses Left Front of spreading misinformation

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee has alleged that the ruling Left Front Government in West Bengal is trying to tarnish her image ahead of the Assembly polls in the State.

Banerjee said the Gyaneshwari Express train mishap took place just prior to the civic polls of Kolkata and it … Read more : Mamata Banerjee accuses Left Front of spreading misinformation.

Clinton seeks human rights progress in Vietnam, vows more cooperation on Agent Orange impact

Clinton seeks human rights progress in Vietnam
HANOI, Vietnam – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Thursday urged Vietnam to improve its human rights record and pledged greater cooperation in dealing with the lingering impact of Agent Orange from the Vietnam War.
In Hanoi for events marking the 15th … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Clinton seeks human rights progress in Vietnam, vows more cooperation on Agent Orange impact.

Nepal election stalemate, a setback for Maoists

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s failure to elect a Prime Minister on Wednesday is being seen as a setback to the Maoists, who had paralyzed the country earlier this year by organizing strikes and blockades to force the resignation of former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal.

UCPN-Maoist party’s Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, Nepali Congress party’s Ram … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nepal election stalemate, a setback for Maoists.

Accused BJP MP goes underground in Right to Information activist murder case

AHMEDABAD – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Dinubhai Boghabhai Solanki, the man suspected to be behind the murder of Right to Information (RTI) activist Amit Jethwa is reported to be underground just 24-hours after the incident.

Amit Jethwa’s father Bhiku Jethwa had accused Solanki for the murder, as he claimed that his son had recently filed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Accused BJP MP goes underground in Right to Information activist murder case.

Rangarajan to brief Prime Minister on state of economy, growth outlook

NEW DELHI – The Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC), C. Rangarajan, will brief the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, on the state of the economy and the growth outlook on Friday.

Rangarajan is expected to brief Dr Singh about Gross Domestic Product (GDP) projections and the challenges before the economy, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chafee faces tough road as he wages independent bid for RI governor with no party backing

Chafee’s independent RI governor bid no easy road
PAWTUCKET, R.I. – There are no campaign signs, no crowds around former U.S. Sen. Lincoln Chafee. He’s standing, sometimes alone, as baseball fans stream toward the stadium before a Pawtucket Red Sox game.
If not for the occasional supporter who asks to take a picture with … Original article on : Chafee faces tough road as he wages independent bid for RI governor with no party backing.

Nepal braces for marathon PM race

KATHMANDU – With Nepal’s parliament refusing to elect a new prime minister Wednesday – the third in less than two years – the country is now braced for a marathon election Friday that will continue till one of the candidates succeeds in securing the required number of votes.

After Wednesday’s prime ministerial election ended in a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

11 LJP legislators resign from Bihar assembly

PATNA – Eleven Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) legislators Thursday resigned from the assembly to protest the “partisan” role of the speaker and intensify their movement against Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who is allegedly involved in a financial scam.

A day after the state Congress urged all opposition legislators to resign en-masse to press for early … Original article on : 11 LJP legislators resign from Bihar assembly.

Shiv Sena begins march towards Andhra irrigation project

HYDERABAD – There’s fresh tension on the Andhra Pradesh-Maharashtra border. After Telugu Desam Party’s (TDP) protest over the Babhali dam project in Maharashtra, it is now the Shiv Sena’s turn to rake up a controversy over a lift irrigation project in Andhra Pradesh.

Tension prevailed on the Andhra-Maharashtra border near Bodhan in Nizamabad district of Andhra …. Read the original article  : Shiv Sena begins march towards Andhra irrigation project.

Statute changes needed to stop military takeover: Hasina

DHAKA – Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has called the move to amend the country’s constitution “a historic responsibility” meant to prevent future seizure of power by the military.
The amendments to the 1972 constitution are “necessary for upholding democracy, and for blocking the way for usurpation of state power through imposition of martial …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Myanmar military supremo plans goodwill visit to India

YANGON – Myanmar’s junta chief Senior General Than Shwe is scheduled to pay a “goodwill” visit to India next week, state media reports said Thursday.

The official visit, at the invitation of Indian President Pratibha Patil, is scheduled for July 25 to 29, The New Light of Myanmar said.
Than Shwe, who heads the State Peace …. Source  : Myanmar military supremo plans goodwill visit to India.

US wants better relations between India, Pakistan

NEW DELHI – The US Thursday said its improving relationship with India and Pakistan is in the interests of both countries as it pitches for better ties between New Delhi and Islamabad.
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton spoke of her desire for India to improve relations with Pakistan when she met External …. Original article  : US wants better relations between India, Pakistan.

British PM gorges on roadside hot dog

NEW YORK – David Cameron was treated to a roadside hot dog by New York mayor Michael Bloomberg after the British prime minister arrived in the city for his first official visit.

Bloomberg met Cameron at a street corner outside Penn station after the premier arrived by train from Washington. The two men grabbed a quick … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British PM gorges on roadside hot dog.

India not being diminished in Afghanistan: US envoy

NEW DELHI – Lauding New Delhi’s role in stabilising Afghanistan, US Special Envoy Richard Holbrooke Thursday said India was “not being diminished” to the advantage of Pakistan in the war-torn country.

“India is not being diminished. It’s not a zero sum game,” Holbrooke told reporters here when asked about India’s concerns on the contentious proposal … Read more : India not being diminished in Afghanistan: US envoy.

Aggressive opposition to continue protest against Nitish Kumar

PATNA – A day after unseemly scenes of a slipper being flung at the speaker and flower pots being broken in the assembly, Bihar’s opposition legislators Thursday said they would continue their protest against Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his alleged involvement in a Rs.11,412 crore scam.

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Lok Janshakti … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Aggressive opposition to continue protest against Nitish Kumar.

David Cameron’s ‘nappy-changing duties’ over?

WASHINGTON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has said that his new job may keep him away from nappy-changing duties when his new baby is born.

Cameron’s wife Samantha is expected to give birth in September.

When asked about it on the last day of his US trip, Cameron said: “There’ll be the usual family row about …. Read the original article  : here.

Cameron describes UK as US’”junior partner” in fighting Nazi Germany

WASHINGTON – Prime Minister David Cameron slipped up when he described Britain as the “junior partner” of the US in fighting Nazi Germany in 1940.

America did not actually join the Second World War until a year later, staying neutral until Germany and Japan declared war on the USA in December 1941.

But, according to the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cameron describes UK as US’ “junior partner” in fighting Nazi Germany.

Goa’s floating casinos dumping sewage into river: Panel

PANAJI – A legislative panel has slammed the Goa government for allowing offshore casinos and cruise vessels to dump raw sewage into the Mandovi river that runs by this state capital.

“The committee is aghast by learning that the gaming vessels, casinos and boat cruises are releasing all kinds of waste into the Mandovi river …. Read the original article  : Goa’s floating casinos dumping sewage into river: Panel.

Ministers need not attend office at ‘fixed time’

NEW DELHI – It is not mandatory for ministers to attend office “at a fixed time”, the cabinet secretariat has told a right to information (RTI) activist.
Dev Ashish Bhattacharya had in an RTI application asked whether it was “compulsory for each minister to attend his office?”. Filed to the Prime Minister’s Office March … Read more >>.

House feels heat after Senate kills domestic add-ons, returns ‘take it or leave it’ war bill

House pressured to pass stripped-down war measure

WASHINGTON – After a take-it-or-leave-it vote by the Senate, House Democrats face little choice but to drop more than $20 billion in domestic spending from a must-pass bill funding President Barack Obama’s troop surge in Afghanistan.
The Senate rejected the House measure, passed earlier this month, by a 46-51 vote …. Original article  : House feels heat after Senate kills domestic add-ons, returns ‘take it or leave it’ war bill.

BJP cancels lunch with PM after CBI summons Shah

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Friday cancelled a lunch with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh citing the “bitter atmosphere” following the CBI’s summons to Gujarat minister Amit Shah in the 2005 killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in a staged shootout.
“Four BJP leaders were invited for the PM’s luncheon meeting but we … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP cancels lunch with PM after CBI summons Shah.

US Chamber of Commerce to endorse Republican candidate Rubio in Florida’s US Senate race

Chamber backs tea-party-favorite Rubio in Florida

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is backing Marco Rubio’s bid for the Senate, pledging to help the tea party-favored candidate emerge from a tight three-way race in Florida.
The group plans a Saturday rally in Orlando to announce Rubio, a former state House speaker, as its latest endorsed candidate. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US Chamber of Commerce to endorse Republican candidate Rubio in Florida’s US Senate race.

Flame for Singapore Youth Olympics successfully lit at Ancient Olympia

Flame for inaugural Youth Olympics lit
ANCIENT OLYMPIA, Greece – The Olympic flame for the inaugural Youth Olympics has been successfully lit by the sun’s rays at the birthplace of the ancient Olympics.

Standing in front of the 2,600-year-old Temple of Hera, an actress dressed as an ancient priestess used a concave mirror to focus the sun’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Flame for Singapore Youth Olympics successfully lit at Ancient Olympia.

Kenny Guinn Dies At 73

LAS VEGAS (GaeaTimes.com)- Kenny Guinn, the former Governor of Nevada died yesterday leaving his friends and family shattered. The Clark County coroner Mike Murphy said that the former Governor died after he fell from his roof at his home in Las Vegas. The spokesman for Kenny Guinn’s family Billy Vassiliadis at the hospital said …. Original article  : Kenny Guinn Dies At 73.

Ratification uncertain with Republicans holding back support of U.S.-Russia nuclear treaty

US-Russia nuke treaty facing hurdles in US Senate

WASHINGTON – The once smooth path for Senate ratification of a major nuclear arms control agreement with Russia is looking a little dicier.
Conservatives opposing New START, a replacement for a Cold War-era treaty, are trying to make it an issue in November’s congressional elections.
While they are unlikely to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nepal PM run-off becomes butt of jokes

KATHMANDU – As the race for Nepal’s new prime minister narrowed down to a duel between the republic’s two largest parties Friday, the re-election, expected to be a fiasco once more, became the butt of jokes.

Maoist supremo Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, who had won the same election by overwhelming majority two years ago but failed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal PM run-off becomes butt of jokes.

Nirupama Rao meets Pillai amid turf battle reports

NEW DELHI – With the opposition attacking alleged inter-ministerial differences over engagement with Islamabad, Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao has met Home Secretary G.K. Pillai to clear the air over his remarks on the alleged role of the Pakistani spy agency ISI in the 26/11 attack.
Rao met Pillai Thursday evening and told him in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nirupama Rao meets Pillai amid turf battle reports.

BJP says no to PM’s lunch invitation

NEW DELHI – The BJP Friday turned down Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s lunch invitation ahead of parliament’s monsoon session following the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) summoning Gujarat minister Amit Shah in connection with the 2005 Sohrabuddin Sheikh killing.
“Four of the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) leaders were invited for the PM’s luncheon meeting …. Read the original article  : here.

64 Jharkhand officials under vigilance scanner

RANCHI – Sixty-four deputy collectors appointed in 2006 are under the Jharkhand vigilance bureau’s scanner for alleged irregularities in their appointments, official sources said here.

The vigilance bureau has sought copies of 64 successful candidates from the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) who were appointed as deputy collectors in the first JPSC examination held in 2006. … Read more >>.

Lawyers seek federal injunction to halt military’s ban on openly gay troops nationwide

Lawyers seek injunction to halt military gay rule
RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Lawyers for a Republican gay rights organization will ask a judge for an injunction to halt the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy during their closing arguments in a federal trial challenging the law.
Lawyers for the Log Cabin Republicans say they will ask …. Read the original article  : here.

Bihar governor working like opposition worker: JD-U

PATNA – Bihar’s ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) has alleged that Governor Devanand Konwar was working like a “worker of the opposition” over demands for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s resignation for his alleged involvement in a Rs.11,412 crore scam.

Angry over the opposition demanding the resignation of Nitish Kumar, JD-U state president Vijay Kumar Choudhary said in … Read more : Bihar governor working like opposition worker: JD-U.

Mass. program started partly by Sept. 11 pilot turns refugees of war, genocide into farmers

Massachusetts program turns refugees into farmers

DRACUT, Mass. – A program started partly by a pilot killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks has been quietly teaching modern farming techniques to refugees of war, famine and genocide to help them integrate into American life.
The 12-year-old New Entry Sustainable Farming Project has trained about 150 farmers so …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mass. program started partly by Sept. 11 pilot turns refugees of war, genocide into farmers.

Watchdog says websites pose biggest terror threat to UK

LONDON – The official reviewer of the British Government’s anti-terrorism laws, Lord Carlile, has warned Prime Minister David Cameron to his attention instead to websites that openly advocate violence.

A Liberal Democrat, Lord Carlile, the terrorism watchdog, has suggested that outlawing an organisation just because their views are offensive is not going to help the struggle … Read more >>>.

Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez breaks ties with Colombia to dispute accusations he harbors guerrillas

Venezuela breaks ties with US-allied Colombia

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has broken diplomatic relations with neighboring Colombia, accusing the close U.S. ally of fabricating reports that Colombian rebels find safe haven inside Venezuela.
Souring already poor relations even more, Chavez said Thursday that he was forced to sever ties because Colombian officials insist he … Read : Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez breaks ties with Colombia to dispute accusations he harbors guerrillas.

Congress demands dismissal of Nitish Kumar government

PATNA – Congress legislators in Bihar Friday met Governor Devanand Konwar and handed over a memorandum demanding the immediate dismissal of the Nitish Kumar government over alleged irregularities of Rs.11,412 crore in the state.

A day after Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Left parties legislators submitted a memorandum … Original source on Gaea Times at : Congress demands dismissal of Nitish Kumar government.

Bangladesh constitution to retain ‘Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim’

DHAKA – Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said the phrase “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim” would not be excluded from the constitution that will be reviewed by a parliamentary committee formed last Wednesday.
She did not elaborate during her address in parliament Thursday. This would mean that ’secularism’ will not be restored as one … Read more : Bangladesh constitution to retain ‘Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim’.

Pakistan to expand maritime ties with China

BEIJING – Pakistan is “very satisfied” with the performance of the frigates it bought from China and hopes to further strategic maritime cooperation with the nation, a top Pakistani official said.

Two of the four F-22P frigates Pakistan ordered from China are already in service its navy, with the third one scheduled to be commissioned in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan to expand maritime ties with China.

Advocates of non violence not Maoist sympathisers: Congress

NEW DELHI – It is wrong to dub those who suggest non-violent means to tackle the Maoist menace as their sympathisers, the Congress said Saturday rebutting the
contention of BJP president Nitin Gadkari that the advisory bodies of the government had Maoist sympathisers.
“An advisory body should get varied opinion and should also [..] Read the original article: here.

Kumaratunga blasts Sri Lankan Govt. for ‘completely forgetting’ her mother
legacy

LONDON – Former Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga has launched one of her most outspoken attacks against the government of President Mahinda Rajapaksa by accusing it of “completely forgetting the legacy” of her mother, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the world’s first woman Prime Minister.

“She was not …. Source article  : Kumaratunga blasts Sri Lankan Govt. for ‘completely forgetting’ her mother
legacy.

Egypt president not attending Africa summit once used as proof of his good health

Egypt’s president not attending African summit

CAIRO – Egypt’s President Hosni Mubarak will not go to an African Union summit after officials had cited his planned attendance as proof of his good health.
State media reported Saturday that Mubarak had delegated Prime Minister Ahmed Nazif to represent Egypt at the summit in Uganda, which is expected to … Read more : Egypt president not attending Africa summit once used as proof of his good health.

Modi wants parliamentary panel to probe corruption in NREGA

NEW DELHI – Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi Saturday urged the government to constitute a joint parliamentary panel to look into alleged corruption in the national rural job guarantee scheme.

Addressing a meeting of the National Development Council (NDC), the country’s top policy forum, Modi said the mid-term appraisal of the 11th plan has highlighted “corruption, …. Source article  : Modi wants parliamentary panel to probe corruption in NREGA.

Amit Shah Resigns From Gujarat Ministry

GUJARAT, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Gujarat’s minister of state for home Amit Shah resigned from his post in the state’s ministry on Saturday. The announcement was made by Narendra Modi in New Delhi before the Gujarat Chief Minister attended the National Development Council meeting in the capital.
Amit Shah, considered the right hand of Narendra Modi in …. Read the original article  : here.

Rangel political allies largely quiet as they weigh political fallout of ethics charges

Rangel ethics charges create headache for allies

NEW YORK – The ethics charges against New York Democrat Charlie Rangel are causing headaches for his allies.
The 40-year congressional veteran says he will fight to clear his name. But few prominent Democrats are speaking up for him.
It’s a particularly vexing situation for New York Democrats, who have benefited … Read more : Rangel political allies largely quiet as they weigh political fallout of ethics charges.

Italian Catholic Church hit by homosexual ‘casual sex’ scandal

LONDON – The Italian Catholic Church has been hit by yet another gay scandal after the ‘Panorama’, a conservative weekly news magazine owned by the Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, carried out a two week investigation and published photographs of three homosexual priests attending …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Modi has no right to criticise CBI: Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress Saturday slammed Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi for criticising the CBI for its probe into the 2005 killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh,

saying he was attacking the Supreme Court by doing so.
Congress general secretary B.K. Hariprasad said Modi has no right to criticise the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) …. Original source  : Modi has no right to criticise CBI: Congress.

Narendra Modi announces Shah’s resignation, alleges conspiracy (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Gujarat Minister Amit Shah, allegedly involved in the 2005 staged shootout of Sohrabuddin Sheikh, has resigned, Chief Minister Narendra Modi announced here Saturday while accusing the Congress-led UPA government of “misusing” the CBI and “fabricating” the charges against Shah.

“Amit Shah has sent his resignation to my bungalow. I will complete the formalities [..] Read the original article: here.

Reverence for iconic hero going too far? Chavez’s obsession with Simon Bolivar runs deep

Simon Bolivar an obsession for Venezuela’s Chavez

CARACAS, Venezuela – For Hugo Chavez, Simon Bolivar is more than a founding father to be feted once a year on his birthday. He’s the icon of an entire political movement. He’s a muse whose words inspire nearly two centuries after his death.
For Chavez, Bolivar is an obsession.
The president’s …. Read the original article  : here.

British PM asked to discuss Kohinoor return to India

LONDON – Keith Vaz, the Indian-origin British MP, wants the Koh-i-noor diamond to be returned to India and asks Prime Minister David Cameron to discuss the issue of its return during his visit to India next week.

Vaz said in a statement: “I believe that this is the perfect opportunity for the prime minister to …. Source article  : British PM asked to discuss Kohinoor return to India.

Congress ‘misusing’ CBI, says Modi

NEW DELHI – Hitting out at the Congress-led central government, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi Saturday accused it of “misusing” the CBI to “fabricate allegations” against state minister Amit Shah and also “conspiring” to hamper the development of Gujarat.

Before announcing the resignation of Shah, who is alleged to be involved in the killing of Sohrabuddin … Original article on : Congress ‘misusing’ CBI, says Modi.

Venezuela’s Chavez warns Colombia amid tensions, but border situation remains normal

Venezuela’s Chavez warns Colombia amid tensions

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez warned Colombia against provoking a conflict, saying any attack on his country would trigger a reaction.
Chavez insisted he wants peace during a speech Friday night but raised the possibility of a conflict, saying his top generals were constantly evaluating the situation along the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Venezuela’s Chavez warns Colombia amid tensions, but border situation remains normal.

Amit Shah has resigned: Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI – Gujarat Minister of State for Home Amit Shah, who continues to be a hunted man for his alleged role in the 2005 killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in a staged shootout, has resigned, Chief Minister Narendra Modi said here Saturday.

Modi, who arrived in the capital in the morning, said: “Amit Shah has sent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amit Shah has resigned: Narendra Modi.

Mamata: How regional leaders misuse national roles (Comment)

The allegations against Mamata Banerjee that her preoccupation with West Bengal politics is preventing her from giving greater attention to the railway ministry have reopened the question whether regional leaders are capable of discharging national responsibilities.
The grimness of available statistics shows how remiss she has been in her ministerial duties. In the period …. Original article  : Mamata: How regional leaders misuse national roles (Comment).

Venezuela’s Chavez promises to help Abkhazia, South Ossetia to seek international recognition

Chavez to aid Abkhazia, S Ossetia seek recognition

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez promised to call on his Latin American allies to recognize the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, two separatist Georgian regions considered autonomous states by just four countries around the world.
Chavez met with Abkhazia leader Sergei Bagapsh and South Ossetia’s Eduard …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Venezuela’s Chavez promises to help Abkhazia, South Ossetia to seek international recognition.

Judge blocks Ariz. law that would end domestic partner benefits for gay, lesbian state workers

Judge blocks AZ law on domestic partner benefits

PHOENIX – A federal judge is blocking Arizona from implementing a state law that eliminates domestic partner benefits for gay and lesbian state employees.
U.S. District Judge John Sedwick on Friday issued a preliminary injunction that requires the state to still make family health insurance available to gay and …. Read the original article  : Judge blocks Ariz. law that would end domestic partner benefits for gay, lesbian state workers.

Democratic officials reach out to anxious liberals with tough election season ahead

Democrats wary of motivation problem with liberals
LAS VEGAS – The Democratic Party has a motivation problem.
Party officials acknowledged low morale within their left wing and urged liberal bloggers and activists Friday to keep faith with President Barack Obama in an election year as Democrats brace for losses in Congress.
“We …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Democratic officials reach out to anxious liberals with tough election season ahead.

Venezuelan military warns Colombia amid latest tensions, but life along border remains normal

Venezuela warns Colombia amid latest tensions

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuela’s defense minister on Friday warned Colombia against provoking a conflict after President Hugo Chavez severed ties with the neighboring country and placed his military on alert.
Defense Minister Carlos Mata read a statement on state television promising “a strong response” if foreign forces cross into Venezuelan territory.
Chavez … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Venezuelan military warns Colombia amid latest tensions, but life along border remains normal.

McCain spends more than $10M on re-election bid in second quarter, Hayworth spends $1.1M

McCain spending tops $10 million in second quarter

PHOENIX – Arizona Sen. John McCain has been beating up on his main Republican primary challenger, but it’s come at a price.
McCain spent more than $10.2 million on his re-election bid in the quarter ended June 30, according to Federal Election Commission records made public Friday.
McCain also transferred …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : McCain spends more than $10M on re-election bid in second quarter, Hayworth spends $1.1M.

Shah being made a scapegoat to save Modi: Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress Sunday alleged Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were making a “scapegoat” of former state home minister Amit Shah, charged with involvement in the 2005 killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in a staged shoot-out, to deflect attention from Modi.

“Amit Shah and Modi saying that CBI (Central … Read more >>>.

Ansari to confer award on late Sunil Dutt

NEW DELHI – Vice President Hamid Ansari will confer the National Amity Award for this year on late actor-turned-politician Sunil Dutt July 30. The award will be received by his daughter Priya Dutt.

“Sunil Dutt’s work in the field of performing arts and his efforts to bring about feelings of brotherhood amongst … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ansari to confer award on late Sunil Dutt.

Taliban spokeman: 1 missing US service member dead, other captured by insurgents

Taliban: 1 missing US trooper dead, other captured

KABUL, Afghanistan – The Taliban say they have killed one of the two U.S. service members who went missing two days ago and have taken the other prisoner.
Spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told The Associated Press on Sunday that the two wandered into an insurgent-controlled area Friday. Taliban fighters opened …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Poll panel notices to TRS chief, Andhra minister

NEW DELHI – The Election Commission Sunday issued notices to Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief K. Chandrasekhar Rao and Andhra Pradesh IT minister Komati Reddy Venkat Reddy for violating the model code of conduct.

According to the poll panel, the model code of conduct came into existence after it announced by-elections to 10 state assembly seats … Read more »».

Peres: Croatian WWII camp involved ’sadism’; Iran’s president should visit it

Peres: Croatian WWII camp was a show of ’sadism’

JASENOVAC, Croatia – Touring the site of Croatia’s World War II concentration camp, Israeli President Shimon Peres said Sunday it was a demonstration of “sheer sadism” and that Iran’s president, who has denied the Holocaust, should visit it.
Peres and Croatian President Ivo Josipovic toured Jasenovac, where a …. Read the original article  : Peres: Croatian WWII camp involved ’sadism’; Iran’s president should visit it.

Naidu outwitted by Maharashtra to make him leave

NANDED – The Maharashtra government induced Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader N. Chandrababu Naidu and his colleagues to leave the state by claiming to withdraw all cases slapped against them. It now appears only minor cases were withdrawn.

Although Naidu and company finally left – reluctantly and amid a lot of drama – for Hyderabad in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Naidu outwitted by Maharashtra to make him leave.

One more shot at dynasty politics? (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – If the mother-son duo of Sonia Gandhi-Rahul Gandhi and Maneka Gandhi-Varun Feroz Gandhi top the list of political family heirs in the Lok Sabha, why should Ajit Singh-Jayant Singh lag behind?
Ajit, former union minister and son of late prime minister Charan Singh, is in talks with the Congress leadership for … Read more >>>.

Integrated plan key to neutralizing Left extremism in backward districts: PM

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Saturday said his government would soon announce an integrated holistic plan with the objective of neutralizing the impact of left wing extremism in the country’s least developed backward districts.

Delivering his concluding remarks at the 55th National Development Council Meeting, which was held here to …. Original source  : Integrated plan key to neutralizing Left extremism in backward districts: PM.

Amit Shah is abiding by the law: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Sunday said former Gujarat minister Amit Shah, accused in the 2005 killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in a staged shootout, has abided by the law in resigning.

“He (Shah) has not received the chargesheet yet, but still he resigned,” party spokesperson Prakash Javadekar said.
He said Shah, former Gujarat …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Amit Shah is abiding by the law: BJP.

Afghan gov’t: Taliban offers body of Navy member, allegedly killed in ambush, for prisoners

Afghan gov’t: Taliban kills 1 US sailor, 1 held

KABUL, Afghanistan – The Taliban have offered to exchange the body of a U.S. Navy member they said was killed in an ambush two days ago in exchange for insurgent prisoners, an Afghan official said Sunday.
U.S. and NATO officials confirmed that two American Navy personnel went missing …. Source  : Afghan gov’t: Taliban offers body of Navy member, allegedly killed in ambush, for prisoners.

Important bills likely in monsoon session (To go with parliament curtainraiser)

Important bills listed for introduction or passage in the monsoon session:

- The Securities and Insurance Laws (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2010 – (to replace an ordinance).
- The Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Bill, 2010 – (to replace an ordinance).
- The Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2010 (to replace an ordinance).
- The Salary, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Important bills likely in monsoon session (To go with parliament curtainraiser).

Women’s quota, nuclear liability – two hot potato bills in monsoon session

Women’s quota, nuclear liability -TWO HOT POTATO BILLS IN MONSOON SESSION
NEW DELHI – Two contentious pieces of legislation, on women’s reservation and civil nuclear liability, are among 59 bills listed for consideration during the monsoon session of parliament beginning Monday.
Parties opposed to the women’s reservation bill are ready for battle in … Read more >>.

Congress, opposition showdown expected in parliament (Curtain Raiser)

NEW DELHI – The Congress-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) confrontation over the 2005 killing of an alleged Islamist has cast a shadow on the monsoon session of parliament beginning Monday but there will be fireworks on plenty of other issues too.
The opposition parties are all set to take on the Congress-led government over a …. Source  : Congress, opposition showdown expected in parliament (Curtain Raiser).

Taliban offers to swap body of slain Navy member, allegedly killed in ambush, for prisoners

Taliban says ambush kills 1 US sailor, 1 captured

KABUL, Afghanistan – The Taliban have offered to exchange the body of a U.S. Navy member they said was killed in an ambush two days ago in exchange for insurgent prisoners, an Afghan official said Sunday.
U.S. and NATO officials confirmed that two American Navy personnel went missing … Original source on Gaea Times at : Taliban offers to swap body of slain Navy member, allegedly killed in ambush, for prisoners.

Congress begins walk to Bellary against illegal mining

BANGALORE – The Congress, the main opposition party in Karnataka, Sunday began a 320-km ‘padyatra’ (walk) from Bangalore to Bellary to take on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s powerful ministers, the Reddy brothers, over illegal mining.

State Congress leaders and workers plan to walk 20 km a day and reach the iron-ore rich Bellary district Aug … Read : Congress begins walk to Bellary against illegal mining.

Putin meets busted Russian snoops for singalong

NEW YORK – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin recently met with the group of 10 spies – who were deported from the US earlier this month – for a hearty patriotic singalong, it has emerged.

“I met them,” The New York Daily News quoted Putin, as telling a group of journalists.

Putin said they sang … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Putin meets busted Russian snoops for singalong.

`Don’t amend Bangladesh constitution in haste’

DHAKA – The principal architect of Bangladesh’s 1972 constitution, Kamal Hossain, has said that the government should not amend the constitution “in haste, without building consensus”.
“The constitution is sacred. The government should not add anything to the constitution suddenly without unanimity,” said Hossain.
The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) did not …. Original article  : `Don’t amend Bangladesh constitution in haste’.

Massive US aircraft carrier leads drills with South Korea amid North’s nuclear war rhetoric

US aircraft carrier leads drills with South Korea

ABOARD USS GEORGE WASHINGTON – A nuclear-powered U.S. supercarrier led an armada of warships in exercises off the Korean peninsula Sunday that North Korea has vowed to physically block and says could escalate into nuclear war.
U.S. military officials said the maneuvers, conducted with South Korean ships and Japanese …. Original source  : Massive US aircraft carrier leads drills with South Korea amid North’s nuclear war rhetoric.

Myanmar military chief on goodwill visit to India

YANGON – Myanmar’s junta chief Senior General Than Shwe departed Sunday for a goodwill visit to India at the invitation of the Indian president, officials confirmed.

Than Shwe departed Naypyitaw International Airport for a five-day official visit as guest of President Pratibha Patil, government officials in the military’s capital said.
Than Shwe heads the State Peace … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Myanmar military chief on goodwill visit to India.

US aircraft carrier increases pressure on North Korea, Pyongyang warns of retaliation

US aircraft carrier ups pressure on North Korea

ABOARD USS GEORGE WASHINGTON – A massive nuclear-powered U.S. supercarrier began maneuvers Sunday with ally South Korea in a potent show of force, four months after the sinking of a South Korean warship. North Korea threatened the exercises could lead to nuclear war.
The military drills, set to run …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US aircraft carrier increases pressure on North Korea, Pyongyang warns of retaliation.