Omar now in elite company, says Farooq Abdullah

NEW DELHI – Union Minister Farooq Abdullah Monday said his son, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has joined “an elite club” after a police constable hurled a shoe at him during the Independence Day function in Srinagar.
“He has joined an elite club of former US president George W. Bush, Pakistan President … Read more »».

Human Rights Watch: Kyrgyzstan’s army abetted ethnic violence against minority Uzbeks

Rights group: Kyrgyz army involved in mob violence

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – A prominent human rights group said Monday that Kyrgyzstan’s armed forces abetted and may even have actively taken part in violence by ethnic Kyrgyz mobs against the minority Uzbek community that left at least 370 dead in June.
Human Rights Watch said many witnesses reported seeing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Human Rights Watch: Kyrgyzstan’s army abetted ethnic violence against minority Uzbeks.

Top Army general in Afghanistan says Osama bin Laden’s arrest is still a primary goal

Petraeus: Time is key for progress in Afghanistan
WASHINGTON – U.S. support for the 9-year Afghanistan war is slipping and the death toll is climbing.
As the fighting intensifies, the Pentagon and White House are hoping that political support for the war can hold at least through year’s end to give Army Gen. David Petraeus …. Original source  : Top Army general in Afghanistan says Osama bin Laden’s arrest is still a primary goal.

Kerala Police to decide on PDP leader Madani’s arrest

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala Police will on Monday decide on the issue of arrest of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Abdul Nasser Madani in connection with the 2008 Bangalore serial blasts.

It has been reported that two senior police officials from Bangalore will hold discussions with the police top brass in Kerala to decide on Madani’s … Original article on : Kerala Police to decide on PDP leader Madani’s arrest.

Parliament adjourned over farmer deaths (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were repeatedly adjourned Monday as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) members protested the killing of two farmers in police firing in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district and demanded a statement by the government.
Both the houses were adjourned twice, soon after assembling and then till …. Source article  : Parliament adjourned over farmer deaths (Second Lead).

India confident of 150 votes in Security Council bid

NEW DELHI – India is not only set to be elected a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2011-12 in October but is confident of garnering at least 150 votes in the General Assembly that could fast-track its bid for a permanent seat as well, according to well-placed diplomatic sources.

The 192-member UN General … Read more : India confident of 150 votes in Security Council bid.

Jury at former Ill. Gov. Blagojevich’s corruption trial returning for Day 13 of deliberations

Blagojevich jury deliberations entering 13th day
CHICAGO – Jurors at the corruption trial of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich are set to return for a 13th day of deliberations Monday – with the possibility of additional word coming soon about whether they’ve reached full agreement.
The six men and six women are coming off a …. Source  : Jury at former Ill. Gov. Blagojevich’s corruption trial returning for Day 13 of deliberations.

Mob banker? Serial liar? Insults abound in 2010 campaign

Insults abound in 2010 campaigns
WASHINGTON – Name-calling is a winner this campaign season. By a landslide.

In Illinois, dueling political wordsmiths long ago cast the Senate race as a choice between a “mob banker” and a “serial liar.”
The rivals are more generally known as Alexi Giannoulias, the Democrat, and Rep. Mark Kirk, the Republican. One of … Read : Mob banker? Serial liar? Insults abound in 2010 campaign.

Vietnam, US to hold high-level defence talks

HANOI – Vietnam and the US were to hold their first-ever defence talks at the deputy ministerial level, US sources and Vietnamese media said Monday.

The discussions were scheduled to take place in Hanoi Tuesday, as part of an agreement reached by the two countries’ defence ministers last year, the official Vietnam News said.
The US …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lok Sabha adjourned over farmer deaths (Lead, superseding earlier story)

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned till noon Monday following protests by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party members against the killing of two farmers in police firing in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district.
Soon after the house assembled, the opposition members moved towards Speaker Meira Kumar’s podium and raised the issue, [..] Read the original article: here.

Lok Sabha adjourned over farmer deaths

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned till noon Monday following protests by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party members against the killing of two farmers in police firing in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district.
Soon after the house assembled, the opposition members moved towards Speaker Meira Kumar’s podium and raised the …. Original article  : Lok Sabha adjourned over farmer deaths.

Cabinet defers bill to hike MPs’ salaries

NEW DELHI – The union cabinet Monday deferred a bill to substantially hike the salary and perks of members of parliament, official sources said.

The bill had proposed hiking the basic monthly salary of a MP from Rs.16,000 to Rs.50,000. It also provided for higher perks, including Rs.20,000 as constituency allowance and more air tickets. …. Original article  : Cabinet defers bill to hike MPs’ salaries.

Report: Campaign spending in state judicial elections more than doubles since last decade

Report: Judicial spending doubles in last decade

A new national report shows campaign fundraising for elections to the nation’s top state courts has doubled to more than $200 million over the last decade.
The report by the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York University School of Law and two other groups also concludes the surge …. Read the original article  : here.

MEA reaches out with Twitter to users’ surprise

NEW DELHI – Over a month after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) debuted on Twitter, the response from denizens of the fast-growing social networking site has generally been welcoming, although tinged with some surprise that the stodgy Government of India was finally waking up to the power and reach of new media.
MEA’s …. Source article  : MEA reaches out with Twitter to users’ surprise.

Poll indicates closest Australian vote in 49 years

SYDNEY – Opinion polling in the final week of campaigning showed Australia’ parliamentary elections next Saturday could be the closest since 1949 when a single seat decided who took government.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s Labor holds a 52-48 percent lead over Tony Abbott’s conservatives in a survey published in Monday’s The Australian newspaper.
“No party is …. Original source  : Poll indicates closest Australian vote in 49 years.

Israel announces building plan, rejects preconditions

JERUSALEM/DAMASCUS – The Israeli government approved Sunday a new building plan in the West Bank despite the 10-month settlement freeze and warned against any international conditions to the start of direct dialogue with the Palestinian government, Israeli media reported Sunday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved Sunday a plan to build 23 portable structures in different …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israel announces building plan, rejects preconditions.

Tamil organization says migrant boat had burial at sea

Tamil group: Man died on migrant ship
VANCOUVER, British Columbia – A man died and was buried at sea last month as hundreds of ethnic Tamils fleeing Sri Lanka spent a grueling several months at sea in a cramped, rusting cargo ship, officials said Sunday.

At least 450 migrants from Sri Lanka arrived in Canada’s Pacific coast … Read more >>>.

Forget high tech, jurors and judge communicate the way sneaky high school kids do: with notes

Forget high tech, jurors and judge stick to notes

CHICAGO – In an age when palm-sized computers can fire off electronic messages and cell-phone cameras instantly transmit images, judges communicate with deliberating jurors as teenagers used to do in homeroom when the teacher wasn’t looking: They pass paper notes to each other.
Except sometimes they appear not …. Original article  : Forget high tech, jurors and judge communicate the way sneaky high school kids do: with notes.

Saudi poet-politician who praised suicide bombers dies at 70

RIYADH – Ghazi Abdul Rahman al-Gosaibi, Saudi Arabia’s minister of labour, former ambassador, and prolific poet who caused controversy by praising a Palestinian suicide bomber, has died aged 70 from cancer, officials said Sunday.

Gosaibi published more than 20 books, including novels and poetry, many of which were banned in the conservative kingdom until last month [..] Read the original article: here.

Tea party activists rally on Arizona-Mexico border in support of state’s immigration law

Tea party activists rally on Arizona-Mexico border
HEREFORD, Ariz. – Tea party groups converged on a remote section of the U.S.-Mexico border on Sunday to show support for Arizona’s controversial immigration law and hear from more than a dozen conservative speakers, many of them candidates running for office in crowded … Original article on : Tea party activists rally on Arizona-Mexico border in support of state’s immigration law.

CPI-M opposes MPs hiking their salary

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) said Tuesday that it was opposed to MPs taking a decision on their own salary hike and a system should be put in place, as in the case of government servants, for such decisions.

CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury said the government had promised to look into the … Original article on : CPI-M opposes MPs hiking their salary.

MPs’ pay hike bill in this session: Pranab

NEW DELHI – The government Tuesday said it would table a bill for MPs’ pay hike in the current session, after members of several parties led by Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad forced an adjournment in the Lok Sabha over the issue.
“The government is ready to table the bill (for hike in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : MPs’ pay hike bill in this session: Pranab.

Gambia foreign minister to visit India

NEW DELHI – As part of India’s increased engagement with Africa, Gambian Foreign Minister Momodou Tangara will be arriving in India on a four-day visit Wednesday.

The smallest country in the African mainland, Gambia is one of the oldest democracies in the continent. Interestingly, it is one of the few remaining countries to have diplomatic relations …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gambia foreign minister to visit India.

Nepal PM poll headed for failure again

KATHMANDU – Nearly 50 days after Nepal’s Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal resigned under Maoist pressure, the Himalayan republic is yet to get a new premier with a fifth round of election in parliament scheduled Wednesday heading for failure yet again.

As Maoist chief Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda contests the election against Nepali Congress leader Ram … Read more »».

PDP leader Madani arrested in Bangalore blasts case

Kollam (Kerala), Aug 17 (ANI): People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Abdul Nasser Madani was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the 2008 Bangalore blast case.

Hours before the deadline set by the Bangalore court was to expire, a Karnataka Police team executed the non-bailable arrest warrant as Madani emerged from his orphanage-cum-madrassa complex at Anwarassery at …. Read the original article  : here.

Farmers’ killing sparks fiery debate in Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – The death of two farmers in an agitation against land acquisition in western Uttar Pradesh sparked a fiery debate in the Lok Sabha Tuesday with opposition members accusing the government of compromising peasant interests.
The government allayed the doubts, saying a ministerial panel will come up soon to suggest changes in … Read more »».

Critics label Blair book donation ‘Blood Money’

London, Aug.17 (ANI): Critics of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair have labelled his multi-million pound donation to the Royal British Legion from proceeds of his autobiography as “blood money”.

Sky News quoted Roger Bacon, whose 34-year-old son Matthew was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq in 2005, said he found it hard to believe … Read : Critics label Blair book donation ‘Blood Money’.

Destroyed houses in Leh to be rebuilt within three months: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Tuesday said all houses destroyed in the Leh cloudburst would be rebuilt within the next two-and-a-half months.

Dr. Singh, who arrived in Leh on a day-long visit, also announced Rs 125 crore as relief from Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the victims.

He further said many … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Destroyed houses in Leh to be rebuilt within three months: Manmohan Singh.

AP IMPACT: Laws governing sports agents contacts with student athletes are rarely enforced

AP IMPACT: Laws on sports agents rarely enforced

When sports agent Jason Paul Wood met a pair of Miami baseball players in 2006 to talk about turning pro, his failure to notify the university and register with the state of Florida cost him a $2,500 fine.
Like 41 other states and the federal government, Florida has laws … Read : AP IMPACT: Laws governing sports agents contacts with student athletes are rarely enforced.

World’s response to Pak deluge “pitiful”: UK

London, Aug.17 (ANI): Britain’s Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has slammed the international community over its slow response to the devastating floods in Pakistan, terming it as “pitiful”.

Clegg said that while Britain has released massive funds for Pakistan, the international community is yet to respond and help the country amidst the catastrophe.

“About close to … Read more >>>.

Lalu as chief minister? Others call it daydreaming

PATNA – Critics think Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Lalu Prasad is deceiving himself by thinking he can be Bihar’s chief minister again.

“It is nothing but daydreaming,” Congress spokesperson Prem Chand Mishra said.
Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanay Maukh added: “It is useless for Lalu and (Ramvilas) Paswan to think of coming to power. It …. Source  : Lalu as chief minister? Others call it daydreaming.

Appeals court puts same-sex marriages on hold in California, fast-tracks Proposition 8 case

Calif. gays must wait to wed during Prop 8 appeal

SAN FRANCISCO – Gay couples who had been gearing up to get married in California this week had to put their wedding plans on hold once again after a federal appeals court said it first wanted to consider the constitutionality of the state’s same-sex marriage ban.
A … Original source on Gaea Times at : Appeals court puts same-sex marriages on hold in California, fast-tracks Proposition 8 case.

Declare assets or face jail, Jharkhand tells employees

RANCHI – All state government employees in Jharkhand have been asked to declare their assets every three years or face a year’s imprisonment, a press statement said Tuesday.

“Jharkhand Governor M.O.H. Farook has passed an order under which all the state government employees will have to declare their assets every three years till retirement. If any … Read more : Declare assets or face jail, Jharkhand tells employees.

Obama rallies and raises cash for Sen. Patty Murray, meets with Seattle business owners

Obama rallies for Sen. Murray as voters hit polls

LOS ANGELES – President Barack Obama is giving a blast of attention to Sen. Patty Murray and her re-election bid on primary day, stepping into another competitive race as Democrats try to retain their grip on Congress.
In the middle of a three-day campaign trip, Obama heads north … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama rallies and raises cash for Sen. Patty Murray, meets with Seattle business owners.

Kamat’s remarks on Nehru, Bandodkar create new row

PANAJI – Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat has triggered a major controversy here by blaming first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and state’s first chief minister Dayanand Bandodkar for the present-day coastal woes.

Bandodkar’s kin, members of civil society and the opposition are up in arms over Kamat’s controversial statement last week.
The chief minister said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kamat’s remarks on Nehru, Bandodkar create new row.

Madani likely to surrender before magistrate’s court

KOLLAM – People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Abdul Nasser Madani, a prime accused in the 1998 Bangalore serial blasts case, is likely to surrender before a Kerala magistrate’s court on Tuesday.

Madani’s advocate said his client would surrender before the Karunagappally udicial Magistrate’s court in Kollam.

Two Karnataka senior police officers, including Bangalore Joint Commissioner Alok …. Read the original article  : Madani likely to surrender before magistrate’s court.

Gillard demands republic status for Australia

CANBERRA – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, whose Labour Party has long held that the country should become a republic and stop having the British monarch as its head of state, has said that although citizens have a “deep affection” for Queen Elizabeth II, ceremonial royal rule over Australia should end once her reign is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gillard demands republic status for Australia.

Lalu to protest Cabinet deferment of MPs pay hike in Parliament

NEW DELHI – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad has said that he would lead a protest in support of the hiking of salaries and additional benefits of Members of Parliament.

The Union Cabinet had deferred the decision on the proposed three-fold salary hike because there was no consensus.

On Monday, Lalu Prasad slammed opponents …. Source  : Lalu to protest Cabinet deferment of MPs pay hike in Parliament.

Haryana gifts women free bus rides for ‘Rakhi’

CHANDIGARH – To mark the festival of ‘Raksha Bandhan’ when women tie a colourful thread on the wrist of their brothers as a symbol of bond of love, the Haryana government Tuesday announced that all women in the state will be allowed to travel free in state transport buses.

A state transport department spokesman said the … Read more : Haryana gifts women free bus rides for ‘Rakhi’.

West Wing of White House is Covered

WASHINGTON (Gaeatimes.com) — The West Wing of White House is covered, as seen from the Rose Garden at White house. A White Tarp has been laid between the Garden and the White House, obstructing the view inside. Naturally, people around are getting suspicious.
It has been reported that there was an electric fire nearby, last … Original article on : West Wing of White House is Covered.

800 dangerous structures in Thane

THANE – Alarmed by Tuesday’s building collapse that killed 10 people, the civic body in Thane in Maharashtra said there were about 800 buildings in dilapidated condition posing danger to over 100,000 citizens.

“There are some 800 buildings in our list of dilapidated structures. It will take at least a day to assess the condition and … Read : 800 dangerous structures in Thane.

Bihar minister plans to invite Modi for campaign

PATNA – A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) minister in Bihar’s Nitish Kumar-led government plans to invite Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi for campaigning in his constituency if he contests in the upcoming assembly elections.

Ten days after Bihar’s ruling Janata Dal-United’s (JD-U) president Sharad Yadav said no to Narendra Modi campaigning in the state for the … Read more »».

N-bill report tabled, opposition claims Congress-BJP trade-off

NEW DELHI – A section of the opposition Wednesday alleged a trade-off between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party — the BJP lending support to the civil nuclear liability bill tabled in parliament in lieu of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi being let off in the Sohrabuddin killing case.

“They have struck a deal and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bangalore police quiz Maudany

BANGALORE – People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Abdul Nasir Maudany Wednesday spent his first day in Bangalore police custody answering questions on his alleged involvement in the 2008 Bangalore bomb blasts.

Maudany has been kept at an undisclosed place by the Bangalore police who late Tuesday secured his custody till Aug 26.
“We do not want … Read more »»».

JD-U to chalk out Bihar poll strategy

PATNA – Bihar’s ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) Wednesday began a two-day meet in Nalanda district to chalk out the strategy for the upcoming assembly election.

The session in Rajgir was jointly inaugurated by party president Sharad Yadav and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
Sharad Yadav said the party will discuss the strategy to take on the Rashtriya …. Source article  : JD-U to chalk out Bihar poll strategy.

President greets nation on Parsi New Year

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Wednesday greeted the nation on the Parsi New Year and hoped the festival will spread harmony among all.

Parsi New Year will be celebrated Thursday.
“On the auspicious occasion of Navroz, I convey my greetings and good wishes to all my Parsi brothers and sisters,” the president said … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President greets nation on Parsi New Year.

Cameron wants to encash goodwill to clear the mess

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron, who is to complete a hundred days in the office this week, insisted Wednesday he wants to sort out the problems faced by the country at the earliest, saying he has a limited time to use the goodwill.

Cameron said he is on a lightning mission to reform Britain. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cameron wants to encash goodwill to clear the mess.

Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day Wednesday over illegal mining and allegations that the government and the main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party had struck a deal over passing the contentious civil nuclear liability bill.
As soon as the house reasembled at 12 noon after its first adjournment, opposition members …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Parliamentary panel report on n-liability bill tabled

NEW DELHI – A parliamentary panel report on the controversial civil nuclear liability bill was tabled in both houses of parliament Wednesday amid noisy protests and adjournments.

A section of opposition MPs said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) agreed to support the bill in trade-off with of the ruling Congress for giving a clean chit …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mayawati now blames centre for farmers’ trouble

LUCKNOW – Virtually driven to the wall on the issue of compensation for lands acquired for her ambitious 165-km Noida-Agra Yamuna Expressway, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati has now sought to pass the buck to the Congress-led central government.

“It was really regrettable that successive Congress governments, including the present UPA regime at the centre, had … Read : Mayawati now blames centre for farmers’ trouble.

Taliban insurgents break into home of Afghan official, killing him and his wife

Taliban attack Afghan official’s home, killing 2

KABUL, Afghanistan – Taliban insurgents broke into the home of a provincial official in southern Afghanistan and killed him and his wife, the latest targeted attack on those with links to the government or international forces, authorities said Wednesday.
Atta Jan Kajrwal, the Zabul province director of border and tribal …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Taliban insurgents break into home of Afghan official, killing him and his wife.

Stage set for high-stakes Senate matchup in Washington state

Pivotal Senate primary in Washington decided
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Democratic Sen. Patty Murray and her Republican challenger dove right into their fall matchup after winning the primary in a high-stakes election that could determine the balance of power in the nation’s capital.
Murray said a vote for Republican Dino Rossi is a vote for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Stage set for high-stakes Senate matchup in Washington state.

Rod Blagojevich Trial Verdict Reveals Split Jury

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- The controversial trial of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich yielded a frustrating verdict for the prosecutors as the jury found him guilty on just 1 of the 24 counts. He was found guilty of making false statements to the FBI, a charge that can be called minuscule in comparison of the other …. Source article  : Rod Blagojevich Trial Verdict Reveals Split Jury.

Canada mulls crackdown on Tamil immigrant ‘refugee’ ships over security fears

OTTAWA – Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has warned that his government would “not hesitate to strengthen” the laws in the country, if required, to prevent future ships with migrants from arriving in Canadian waters.

“The government will not hesitate to strengthen the laws if we have to” in order to prevent more ships from coming …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Canada mulls crackdown on Tamil immigrant ‘refugee’ ships over security fears.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over mining scam in Karnataka

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was Wednesday adjourned for the day as the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) members created ruckus and demanded dismissal of the Karnataka government over the issue of illegal mining in the state.

Settling political scores with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which targeted Uttar Pradesh’s BSP government …. Original article  : Rajya Sabha adjourned over mining scam in Karnataka.

Capping extensive fundraising trip, Obama engaging in kitchen-table economy politics in Ohio

Obama engaging in kitchen-table politics in Ohio
COLUMBUS, Ohio – President Barack Obama is turning from million-dollar fundraisers on the West Coast to some kitchen-table politics in Ohio.
Obama plans to meet Wednesday with a Columbus family that has benefited from his economic policies. He’ll then extend the conversation with other families from the neighborhood.
The … Read more »»».

Parliament disrupted as government prepares to table n-bill report

NEW DELHI – Parliament got off to a stormy start Wednesday with opposition MPs — other than the BJP-led alliance — protesting illegal mining in Karnataka and the clean chit given to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh killing case.
While the Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 p.m., the … Read more : Parliament disrupted as government prepares to table n-bill report.

Anti-American protesters say troops killed 2 civilians; NATO says they were insurgents

Anti-US protest blocks highway in east Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Hundreds of demonstrators are blocking a main highway between Kabul and the eastern city of Jalalabad to protest two deaths in a night raid. The protesters say the two men killed were innocent civilians, while NATO says its forces killed two insurgents.
Ghafor Khan, chief of the …. Read the original article  : here.

Newspaper: US to support UN inquiry of human rights abuses, war crimes in Myanmar

Newspaper: US to support UN inquiry in Myanmar

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration has decided to support creation of a United Nations commission to look into alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes in Myanmar, The Washington Post reported Wednesday.
An article on the newspaper’s website quoted unidentified U.S. officials as saying the administration also is considering …. Read the original article  : Newspaper: US to support UN inquiry of human rights abuses, war crimes in Myanmar.

Greenpeace for unlimited compensation cap in nuclear bill

NEW DELHI – Environmental organisation Greenpeace Wednesday asked opposition parties in parliament to not settle at a compensation cap of Rs.1,500 crore in case of an accident as proposed in the civil nuclear liability bill.
“There should not be any cap on accidental compensation. Earlier, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was opposing it …. Read the original article  : Greenpeace for unlimited compensation cap in nuclear bill.

Opposition attacks Mamata, government defends her

NEW DELHI – Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s comments questioning the manner in which Maoist leader Azad had been killed created an uproar in the Rajya Sabha Thursday with Left and BJP MPs taking up the issue and the government saying that their contention was based only on media reports.

A day after Banerjee’s statement that … Original article on : Opposition attacks Mamata, government defends her.

1 in 10 dentists in UK earning more than PM

LONDON – A new research has revealed that more than one in ten dentists in the UK are earning more than the Prime Minister – and hundreds are taking home more than 300,000 pounds.

The number of dentists smashing through the 300,000 pounds barrier has gone up by 10 per cent in the past year as … Original article on : 1 in 10 dentists in UK earning more than PM.

David Cameron says new baby is kicking ‘like Beckham’

LONDON – UK Prime Minister David Cameron thinks that pregnant wife Samantha is having a baby boy as it is kicking “like Beckham”.

Cameron, 43, while marking 100 days as Premier also revealed that he reckons the birth is Imminent, even though Sam still has weeks to go.

“We have had one or two moments …. Source  : David Cameron says new baby is kicking ‘like Beckham’.

Left corners Mamata over Maoists remark

New Delhi, Aug 19 (ANI The Communists along with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) attacked Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee in the Rajya Sabha over her remarks on the killing of Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad.

Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader Sitaram Yechury asked how a minister in the … Read more »»».

Uproar in Rajya Sabha over Mamata’s stand on Azad

NEW DELHI – There was uproar in the Rajya Sabha Thursday over Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee’s speech in Lalgarh questioning the manner in which Maoist leader Azad had been killed.
Left party leaders raised the issue during zero hour with Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader Sitaram Yechury seeking a clarification from the … Read : Uproar in Rajya Sabha over Mamata’s stand on Azad.

Our baby kicks like Beckham: David Cameron

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron thinks that his unborn child could be a boy as it is kicking furiously and “has a right foot like Beckham”.

Cameron told The Sun: “We have had one or two moments when we thought it might have arrived already. But it is hanging on in there at the …. Read the original article  : Our baby kicks like Beckham: David Cameron.

Myanmar pro-democracy leaders welcome US decision to back war crimes commission

Myanmar pro-democracy leaders praise US decision

YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar pro-democracy parties on Friday praised the U.S. decision to support a U.N. war crimes commission as a milestone but cautioned it was too soon to be optimistic.
“We support and welcome the decision by the United States. However, this is just the first step and several more … Original article on : Myanmar pro-democracy leaders welcome US decision to back war crimes commission.

Maoist MP who cast slur on Indian official quits

KATHMANDU – A Maoist MP who triggered a furore with his allegation that an Indian Embassy official in Kathmandu had threatened him has now quit even as his former party threatened to expel him.

Ram Kumar Sharma, a politician from the southern Terai plains, whipped up a storm earlier this month by going to the media …. Original article  : Maoist MP who cast slur on Indian official quits.

Canada’s first Sikh MP denies supporting Tamil Tigers

TORONTO – Even as Canadians continue to protest the arrival last week in Vancouver of a ship carrying about 500 Sri Lankan Tamil asylum seekers, Canada’s first Sikh MP Gurbax Singh Malhi has been dragged into the divisive issue for his alleged support for the Tamil Tigers.

The six-times MP is angry after a columnist … Read more >>.

Brown aiming to pocket 64,000 pounds per public speaking engagement

LONDON – Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown is reportedly aiming to secure bookings worth 64,000 pounds for speaking engagements in the Middle East and Asia.

Anyone wishing to hire the 59-year-old will also have to pay for five-star hotel accommodation, a first-class seat plus three in business class for members of his entourage.

According …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brown aiming to pocket 64,000 pounds per public speaking engagement.

Manmohan Singh tops Newsweek’s list of ten world leaders

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, heads the chart of Newsweek Magazine’s list of ten world leaders, who have won respect and is described as ‘the leader other leaders love’ despite India being placed at 78th in the list of 100 best countries.

In an article titled, ‘The Leader Other Leaders …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan Singh tops Newsweek’s list of ten world leaders.

Parliamentary proceedings may be disrupted over Mamata’s Maoist remark

NEW DELHI – The Opposition is all set to stall proceedings in Parliament on Thursday over Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee’s defence of her pro-Maoist remarks at the recent Lalgarh rally.

Banerjee on Wednesday said that she stood by her statement that it was wrong to kill Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar … Original article on : Parliamentary proceedings may be disrupted over Mamata’s Maoist remark.

Obama and family set out for summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard

R&R time for Obamas on Martha’s Vineyard
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is fleeing the heat and headaches of the capital in search of summer’s greatest delight: some time to unwind and kiss the office goodbye. Even if it is the Oval Office.
With wife Michelle, daughters Sasha and Malia and pet dog Bo in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama and family set out for summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard.

Democrats in NY silent or shying away from issue of mosque construction near ground zero

Mosque debate divides Democrats, especially in NY
NEW YORK – Several New York House Democrats are scrambling away from President Barack Obama’s claim that Muslims have the right to build a mosque near ground zero.
As many as eight New York House Democrats are believed to be vulnerable in the next election. Several have broken …. Source article  : Democrats in NY silent or shying away from issue of mosque construction near ground zero.

New senators frustrated with Senate ways want to weaken longstanding rights of minority

New senators want to change way Senate works

WASHINGTON – Those who hold the Senate in low esteem can get a sympathetic ear from some of the chamber’s newer members. These lawmakers also are fed up with the Senate’s ways and would like to change them.
“A graveyard of good ideas” is how freshman Democrat Tom Udall … Read more >>>.

After stroke, Beau Biden back to running, and running for re-election as Del. attorney general

Beau Biden back on the campaign trail after stroke

DOVER, Del. – Three months after he was sidelined by a mild stroke, Beau Biden is back to jogging three to four times a week, but he’s still taking life one step at a time.
The eldest son of Vice President Joe Biden is campaigning hard for re-election … Read more »»».

Former central minister quits RJD

PATNA – Former central minister Devendra Prasad Yadav quit the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Thursday and announced he was forming a new party to fight the coming assembly elections.
A former MP from Jhanjharpur in Bihar, Devendra Yadav has been unhappy with RJD chief and former chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. He said his … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Former central minister quits RJD.

Grassroots Palestinian group puts conflict with Israel aside to learn about the Holocaust

Palestinians learn about the Holocaust in Israel

JERUSALEM – Growing up in the West Bank, Mujahid Sarsur knew next to nothing about the Holocaust and saw little ground to sympathize with a people he saw as his occupier.
But thanks to an Israeli roommate overseas, the 21-year-old Palestinian student learned about the Nazi murder of 6 million …. Read the original article  : here.

No trade-off with BJP over nuclear bill: government

NEW DELHI – The government Thursday denied the opposition’s allegation that it had struck a give and take deal with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the civil nuclear liability bill in return for Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi being let off in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh case.

“The government of India is not interfering (in the …. Source article  : No trade-off with BJP over nuclear bill: government.

Iraq War Ends

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- After almost seven and a half years of the invasion of Iraq by the United States to oust the Saddam Hussein government, the Iraq War reached its final moments with the withdrawal of the last U.S combat brigade. The final American combat troop left the Iraqi soil early Thursday and made its …. Original source  : Iraq War Ends.

Kenyan government says allegations in case of Obama’s aunt untrue, denies she was in danger

Kenya says Obama aunt was not in danger
NAIROBI, Kenya – A Kenyan official says the government is unhappy with the impression created by a U.S. court ruling that granted asylum to President Barack Obama’s aunt.

Earlier this week, U.S. Immigration Judge Leonard Shapiro said he gave Zeituni Onyango asylum in the U.S. because she would be …. Original source  : Kenyan government says allegations in case of Obama’s aunt untrue, denies she was in danger.

Rajiv Gandhi’s Birth Anniversary Today

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The nation is celebrating the 66th birth anniversary of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi today. A variety of functions are being held all across the country to mark the birth anniversary of the 7th Prime Minister of India. On Friday morning, important dignitaries such as President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rajiv Gandhi’s Birth Anniversary Today.

Churchill’s ‘never have so many..’ iconic speech to highlight Battle of Britain’s 70th anniversary

LONDON – The 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain will be marked by the reading of former Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s famous “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few” speech that he delivered in Parliament on August 20, 1940, and by a fly-past of …. Read the original article  : Churchill’s ‘never have so many..’ iconic speech to highlight Battle of Britain’s 70th anniversary.

Government vows to protect Sikhs in Kashmir, uproar in parliament

NEW DELHI – Amid an uproar in both houses of parliament, the government said Friday that it was committed to the safety of the Sikhs in Kashmir Valley where some Sikh families have reportedly received anonymous letters from extremists asking them to either embrace Islam or pack up.
The Rajya Sabha had to be … Read : Government vows to protect Sikhs in Kashmir, uproar in parliament.

After blaming ex-Goa CM, Kamat says media misquoted him

PANAJI – Less than a week after dragging Goa’s erstwhile tallest leader Dayanand Bandodkar and first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru into a controversy, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat Friday claimed that the media misquoted him.
In a clarification, Kamat said he had high respect for Bandodkar, who was Goa’s first chief minister after the [..] Read the original article: here.

Fractured Assam opposition could lead to Congress hat-trick

GUWAHATI – A fractured opposition in Assam could help the Congress party complete an electoral hat-trick despite facing a barrage of corruption charges, say analysts and lawmakers.

“Unless the opposition unites and gives a fight to the Congress, the ruling party’s victory in the 2011 assembly elections is almost inevitable despite rampant corruption and failures on … Read more : Fractured Assam opposition could lead to Congress hat-trick.

Committed to safety of Sikhs in Kashmir, says Pranab

NEW DELHI – The government Friday said it was committed to the safety of minority Sikh community in the troubled Kashmir Valley where some Sikh families have reportedly received anonymous letters from extremists asking them to either embrace Islam or pack up.
“The government is fully aware of it. Not only the Muslims of … Read : Committed to safety of Sikhs in Kashmir, says Pranab.

Nation pays homage to Rajiv Gandhi on his 66th birth anniversary

NEW DELHI – The nation on Friday paid homage to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 66th birth anniversary.

President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh paid floral tribute to the former prime minister.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi along with her son and MP Rahul Gandhi reached “Vir Bhumi” to pay …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nation pays homage to Rajiv Gandhi on his 66th birth anniversary.

Democrats say they’re optimistic money, manpower will help stem losses this fall

Dems hope money, manpower stem losses
ST. LOUIS – Democrats are expressing optimism that the party’s financial might and voter turnout operations will help stem widespread losses in this fall’s election.
They say the GOP’s governing track record may help.
Tim Kaine, the Democratic Party chairman, told Democratic National Committee members that the party is going …. Read the original article  : Democrats say they’re optimistic money, manpower will help stem losses this fall.

MPs salary hiked, but they are unhappy

NEW DELHI – The cabinet Friday approved a 300 percent salary hike from Rs.16,000 to Rs.50,000 for MPs but this was not enough said members from various parties as they stalled Lok Sabha proceedings seeking more money.
Members of the Samajwadi Party (SP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Janata Dal-United (JD-U) and other parties protested …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : MPs salary hiked, but they are unhappy.

Cabinet approves 300 percent salary hike for MPs

NEW DELHI – The union cabinet Friday approved a 300 percent hike in the salary of MPs.

At present, an MP gets Rs.16,000 a month as salary. A parliamentary panel had recommended Rs.80,001.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cabinet approves 300 percent salary hike for MPs.

India building memorial for Bangladesh war heroes

AGARTALA – India is building an ambitious edifice and a park in Tripura in memory of Indian soldiers and Bangladeshi freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives during the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war.
Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dipu Moni will lay the foundation stone of the memorial and the Mukti Joddha Park Sep 15, according to …. Original article  : India building memorial for Bangladesh war heroes.

North Korea agrees with China on return to talks

SEOUL – North Korea said it is in agreement with China that the six-nation talks on its nuclear weapons programme should be resumed.

Those talks as well as the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula were discussed when China’s special envoy to the peninsula, Wu Dawei, visited Pyongyang this week, North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency reported. …. Original article  : North Korea agrees with China on return to talks.

Manmohan, Sonia pay tribute to Rajiv Gandhi

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and other senior leaders paid tribute to former prime Rajiv Gandhi on his 66th birth anniversary at his memorial Veer Bhumi here Friday.
Vice President Hamid Ansari was amongst the others who paid homage to Gandhi.
The day is being … Read : Manmohan, Sonia pay tribute to Rajiv Gandhi.

Fresh violence rocks Pakistan’s largest city following slaying of political party member

Fresh political violence flares in Pakistan city

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – Seven people have been killed in Pakistan’s largest city in a renewed wave of political violence.
The unrest Friday came after the slaying of a local political party member close to the airport in Karachi.
Provincial government spokesman Jamil Soomro says six people were gunned down in apparent … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fresh violence rocks Pakistan’s largest city following slaying of political party member.

Colbert to host 2-episode special celebrating end of combat operations in Iraq, troops’ return

Colbert to honor troops returning from Iraq
NEW YORK – Stephen Colbert is dusting off his camouflage suit.
The comedian will broadcast two special episodes of Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report” to celebrate the end of combat operations in Iraq and to honor returning troops.
On Sept. 8 and 9, … Read more »»».

Mass. governor signs law designating Salem, site of witch trials, birthplace of National Guard

Salem, Mass., declared National Guard’s birthplace

SALEM, Mass. – The governor of Massachusetts has signed a law designating one of his cities the birthplace of the oldest component of the United States armed forces.
Gov. Deval (deh-VAL’) Patrick on Thursday officially marked the birthplace of the National Guard as Salem (SAY’-luhm), a seaport city northeast of Boston … Original article on : Mass. governor signs law designating Salem, site of witch trials, birthplace of National Guard.

Judge dismisses concert promoters’ federal suit filed against Michael Jackson before his death

Judge dismisses promoters’ lawsuit against Jackson

NEW YORK – A federal judge on Thursday dismissed a multimillion-dollar lawsuit by a concert promoter against the late Michael Jackson over a failed reunion concert.
U.S. District Judge Harold Baer Jr. granted a motion by lawyers for Jackson’s estate to dismiss the case, citing a lack of evidence that the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Judge dismisses concert promoters’ federal suit filed against Michael Jackson before his death.

Singer Wyclef Jean meets with Haiti’s president, discusses security concerns

Singer Wyclef Jean meets with Haiti’s president

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haitian President Rene Preval met with presidential hopeful Wyclef Jean for more than two hours on Thursday, touching off a new round of speculation as to whether the singer will be allowed to run in Nov. 28 elections.
Jean told The Associated Press that he felt the …. Original source  : Singer Wyclef Jean meets with Haiti’s president, discusses security concerns.

Bombshell Revelations: Barack Obama has Intense Connections with CIA!

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Watch Barack Obama being exposed live on the Alex Jones Show on THURSDAY AUGUST 19 at 1 PM EST / 12 NOON CST.
Reportedly, Investigative journalist Wayne Madsen will reveal his groundbreaking series on Barack Obama’s true origins tomorrow. Madsen claims to have done detailed research work and is sure to unfold … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bombshell Revelations: Barack Obama has Intense Connections with CIA!.

Bilderberg Group Fascinates Fidel Castro

HAVANA, CUBA (GaeaTimes.com)- The 84-year-old former Cuban president, Fidel Castro is all praise for Lithuanian-born writer Daniel Estulin in his three page article that came out in a Communist Party newspaper on Wednesday. In the article the former Cuban President talks about the shadowy Bilderberg Group as a global government that controls not only … Read more : Bilderberg Group Fascinates Fidel Castro.

Nepal Army crosses swords with Maoists on UN monitors

KATHMANDU – Hemmed in with severe restrictions for four years, Nepal’s army has begun to get restive, asking the government for the first time not to extend the tenure of a UN agency monitoring troops as well as the Maoist army even as the Maoists sought an additional year for it.

Breaking his silence, the new … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nepal Army crosses swords with Maoists on UN monitors.

Four new ministers in Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR – Four ministers of state were sworn in by Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi Saturday, an official said.

The ministers were Pradeepsinh Jadeja, Vasuben Trivedi, Kanu Bhalala and Praful Patel.
…. Original article  : Four new ministers in Gujarat.

Mukherjee meets Lalu, Mulayam to end deadlock over MPs salary hike

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday met Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, Samajwadi Party (SP) supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gopinath Munde to end the deadlock over salary hike for MPs.

The Union Cabinet on Friday approved a bill to hike MPs salary … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mukherjee meets Lalu, Mulayam to end deadlock over MPs salary hike.

Miliband’s tips on hosting drinks-and-nibbles do invite rivals sniggers

LONDON – Would be Labour party leader David Miliband has reportedly taken a leaf out of US President Barack Obama’s campaigning skills in the hope of winning support for his quest to become a prime minister hopeful.

No, he is not spreading wise advice on how to get back to power, but instead has … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Miliband’s tips on hosting drinks-and-nibbles do invite rivals sniggers.

Communist rebels kill 8 police officers in ambush in central Philippines, seize weapons

Rebels kill 8 Philippine police officers in ambush

MANILA, Philippines – Communist rebels killed eight police officers in the central Philippines and took their weapons and uniforms in an ambush Saturday as they escalate attacks against security forces, police said.
The New People’s Army guerrillas killed a local council member in Northern Samar province’s Catarman township then …. Source  : Communist rebels kill 8 police officers in ambush in central Philippines, seize weapons.

BJP ahead of Congress in Rajasthan civic polls

JAIPUR – The results of the election to 126 civic bodies in Rajasthan have been declared with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) winning 57 posts of heads of civic bodies ahead of the Congress.

The Congress party managed to get 49 posts, while the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Independents have got …. Source  : BJP ahead of Congress in Rajasthan civic polls.

Australia’s federal election at a glance

Australia’s federal election at a glance
Some facts and figures about Australia’s federal election Saturday:

-Almost 1,200 candidates are vying for all 150 seats in the House of Representatives and 40 of the 76 seats in the Senate. The party or coalition that can form a majority in the lower house forms the government.
-Voting is mandatory for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australia’s federal election at a glance.

Australia polling under way, postal votes crucial (Second Lead)

SYDNEY – The final result of the neck-and-neck electoral battle in Australia hinges on the two million postal votes that will be counted after 13 days of polling, which is under way Saturday.

About 85 percent of all voters are expected to cast “ordinary” ballots, the counting of which starts and is expected to be completed … Original article on : Australia polling under way, postal votes crucial (Second Lead).

Chinese AIDS activist who caught the virus as a boy is detained by police, colleagues say

AIDS activists: Chinese colleague detained

BEIJING – Police in central China have detained an AIDS activist who contracted the virus as a boy and whose tireless campaigning for the rights of those with the disease angered local authorities, his fellow activists said Saturday.
Under pressure to end Tian Xi’s campaigning, police from his home town of Gulu …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Congress-BJP pact on n-liability bill is sign of political maturity (Comment)

Notwithstanding minor differences over the draft of the nuclear liability bill, the fact that the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) – and even the Left – are on the same page on its passage through parliament is a positive sign.
Considering that the BJP had sided with the Left in 2008 to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Congress-BJP pact on n-liability bill is sign of political maturity (Comment).

Democratic Party committee put more in the bank in July than Republican counterparts

Democrats hold financial advantage over GOP

WASHINGTON – Federal campaign reports show that Democratic Party committees maintained a solid cash on hand advantage over their Republican counterparts as they entered the final three months before the election.
The Republican National Committee raised only $5.5 million in July, compared to $11.6 million by the Democrats. The Democrat Party … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Democratic Party committee put more in the bank in July than Republican counterparts.

Australia chooses between first woman PM and social conservative man in cliffhanger election

Australia votes on whether first woman PM survives

CANBERRA, Australia – Australians chose between electing their fourth prime minister in three years or sticking with their first woman leader in a tight race Saturday that pit her against a conservative male challenger just two months after she took power.
Julia Gillard, a 48-year-old former lawyer with a …. Source article  : Australia chooses between first woman PM and social conservative man in cliffhanger election.

Australians vote in cliff-hanger election (Lead, changing dateline)

SYDNEY – Voting began Saturday in a parliamentary election that Australians expect will be decided by a handful of votes in a few marginal seats because the rival parties are evenly split.

Opinion polls give Tony Abbott’s conservatives the chance of an upset victory over Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s Labor Party.
The latest survey has them …. Source article  : Australians vote in cliff-hanger election (Lead, changing dateline).

British PM rents out his Notting Hill home

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha are pocketing up to 6,000 pounds a month by renting out their London home while they live in 10 Downing Street, a media report said Saturday.

In 10 Downing Street and the official country retreat of Chequers, the prime minister has the use of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : British PM rents out his Notting Hill home.

Free Films Featuring Bilderberg Group On Youtube

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — The Bilderberg Group theory is now being backed up by the films EndGame and The Obama Deception. The Bilderberg Group consists of rich and powerful men who intend to control all the aspects of the world in various fields such as politics, economics and culture. Bombshell Revelations has …. Source  : Free Films Featuring Bilderberg Group On Youtube.

California lawmakers acknowledge unjust treatment of Italian-Americans during World War II

Calif lawmakers address WWII treatment of Italians

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California lawmakers have passed a resolution acknowledging an often-overlooked group – the thousands of Italian-Americans who were displaced, arrested and harassed during World War II.
The resolution, approved unanimously by both thee Senate and the Assembly this week, expresses regret for their treatment, calling it a “fundamental …. Read the original article  : here.

Voting begins in Australia’s general election

CANBERRA – Voting in Australia’s general election began Saturday amidst poll surveys that Prime Minister Julia Gillard led Labor Party is running neck-and-neck with Tony Abbott led Coalition, media reports said.

More than 14 million people are enrolled to vote to choose from 1,198 candidates for 150 seats in the House of Representatives and 40 of … Read more »»».

Ind. Rep. Donnelly blasts fellow Democrat Pelosi’s ‘energy tax,”Washington crowd’ in new ads

Ind. Democrat Donnelly blasts Pelosi in new ad
SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Indiana Rep. Joe Donnelly is taking an unusual jab at his party’s leadership in a campaign ad that refers to climate change legislation as “Nancy Pelosi’s energy tax.”
The two-term Democrat is pulling a page from Republican strategists in trying to distance …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ind. Rep. Donnelly blasts fellow Democrat Pelosi’s ‘energy tax,’ ‘Washington crowd’ in new ads.

Right wing Drops Ann Coulter for Liking Gays

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com) — Ann Coulter, the conservative speaker has been dumped from a keynote speaking gig at right-wing website WorldNetDaily’s “Taking America Back National Conference“. Only because she has agreed to deliver a speech at HOMOCON, an event sponsored by GOProud, which “represents gay conservatives and their allies.”
Joseoh Farah, editor and CEO of WND …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Right wing Drops Ann Coulter for Liking Gays.

Anger in Nepal as PM poll likely to fail again

KATHMANDU – Amidst growing anger at the failure of Nepal’s major parties to elect a new prime minister even after four rounds of vote, nearly two dozen other parties have threatened to boycott parliament and start a protest movement if Monday’s election also fails.

The run-off seems doomed for failure yet again with the communists declaring … Read more »»».

Street posters of Egyptian president’s son cement campaign for political succession

In new posters, Egypt’s son for president?

CAIRO – Posters have sprouted up around Egypt promoting the son of President Hosni Mubarak as the country’s next leader, in the most overt campaign yet for a controversial father-son succession in this key U.S. Arab ally.
For the last decade, it has been believed that Gamal Mubarak is being … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Street posters of Egyptian president’s son cement campaign for political succession.

Chairman Mao’s Long March hits a high note in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Almost eight decades after he led the famous Long March of the Red Army, an incredible year-long odyssey overcoming starvation, sickness and decimating ambushes, late Chinese chairman Mao Zedong has hit a high note in Nepal, courtesy the Maoists who drew their inspiration from him.

In September 1935, about a month before Mao’s First … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chairman Mao’s Long March hits a high note in Nepal.

BJP wants to shed communal image, eyes Christian votes in Goa

PANAJI – In a bid to shed its communal image and boost its minority vote base, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will interact with Christian religious leaders, including the archbishop of Goa, the party announced Sunday.

Addressing a press conference, BJP national secretary and in charge of Goa Arti Mehra, said: “The party feels there …. Original article  : BJP wants to shed communal image, eyes Christian votes in Goa.

Orissa Chief Minister to meet PM to discuss Vedanta, Posco projects

NEW DELHI – Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here on Monday regarding the NC Saxena Committee report on Vedanta mining and Posco steel plant projects.

He will also discuss the Polavaram (Indira Sagar) issue.

The state government has been opposing the Polavaram project over … Read more »»».

Bangladesh opposition protests move to bring back Zia’s son

DHAKA – Leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) held a nationwide demonstration Sunday against the government’s move to bring back their leader Khaleda Zia’s son from Thailand where he is undergoing treatment after his parole in 2008. He was arrested for alleged corruption.

Arafat Rahman Koko’s parole, granted in 2008, was cancelled last Friday …. Source  : Bangladesh opposition protests move to bring back Zia’s son.

Gillard’s Labor leads race for minority government

SYDNEY – Counting of votes closed Sunday leaving Australia’s ruling Labor Party with a slight edge over the opposition coalition as the country headed towards a hung parliament after seven decades with the small parties emerging as king makers.

Neither side seemed close to getting the 76 seats required to form government on its own, but …. Source  : Gillard’s Labor leads race for minority government.

Mideast direct talks ‘only way’ to peace: UN

NEW YORK – United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Saturday endorsed next month’s planned resumption of direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.

A spokesman at UN headquarters in New York said that Ban believes that negotiations “are the only way for the parties to resolve all final status issues”.
US Secretary of State Hillary …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

President greets nation on Onam

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Sunday sent greetings of “prosperity and happiness” to the nation on the occasion of Onam – Kerala’s harvest festival.

“On the joyous occasion of Onam, I offer my heartiest greetings to all my fellow citizens and especially to the people of Kerala and wish them all prosperity and happiness. May …. Source  : President greets nation on Onam.

Blair’s autobiography ‘more like a love letter to Bush’

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair’s has lavished praise on ex-US President George W. Bush in his much-hyped autobiography, according to insiders who have seen drafts of the book.

In the book, the former Labour Prime Minister calls Bush ‘highly intelligent’ and a ‘visionary’ friend.

“It is …. Read the original article  : Blair’s autobiography ‘more like a love letter to Bush’.

Shashi Tharoor Marriage Held

PALAKKAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The ancestral home of former minister of state for external affairs Shashi Tharoor played host to his much-anticipated wedding with Sunanda Pushkar on Sunday morning. The former minister tied the knot in a traditional Malayali wedding ceremony which was held with much elan at Elavanchery village near Palakkad in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Shashi Tharoor Marriage Held.

Australian prime minister negotiates with independent lawmakers to hang on to power

Australian PM asks independents to save government

CANBERRA, Australia – Prime Minister Julia Gillard said she started negotiating with independent lawmakers Sunday in a bid to cling to power because no major party won a majority of parliamentary seats in Australia’s general elections.
Gillard said she hoped to enlist support for her center-left Labor Party and has …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tharoor-Pushkar finally get married in Kerala

PALAKKAD – After months of media speculation, Shashi Tharoor, former minister of state for external affairs, and Sunanda Pushkar tied the knot at his ancestral home near here Sunday morning in what was said to be a typical Kerala Hindu traditional wedding.

Tharoor, a Congress MP, tied the ‘thali’ around Pushkar’s neck, exchanged garlands and handed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tharoor-Pushkar finally get married in Kerala.

Tharoor-Pushkar tie knot in Kerala

PALAKKAD – MP Shashi Tharoor and Sunanda Pushkar tied the knot at his ancestral home near here Sunday morning in a typical Kerala Hindu tradition.

Performing rituals as per the tradition of Nair family, Tharoor tied the ‘thali’ around Pushkar’s neck, exchanged garlands and handed her ‘podava’ or a new set of clothes around 8.30 a.m.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tharoor-Pushkar tie knot in Kerala.

Venezuela’s Chavez suspends his Sunday radio and TV show during legislative election campaign

Chavez suspends radio-TV program during campaign

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is taking his Sunday TV and radio program off the air until October during campaigning for legislative elections.
The Information Ministry says “Hello, President” will not appear this weekend to make room for televised coverage of a voting drill by electoral officials and the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Venezuela’s Chavez suspends his Sunday radio and TV show during legislative election campaign.

Egypt to hold Arab economic summit

CAIRO – Egypt will hold the second Arab Economic, Social and Development Summit in January next year, Xinhua reported Saturday.

Hisham Youssef, chief of cabinet for Arab League Secretary General, said preparations for Jan 19 summit have begun.
The first Arab economic summit was held in January 2009 in Kuwait.
The summit pledged to link … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egypt to hold Arab economic summit.

Rahul Gandhi visits agitating farmers, assures help

ALIGARH – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Saturday assured farmers demanding higher compensation for their land acquired for the Yamuna Expressway in Uttar Pradesh that he will raise their concerns at appropriate forums.

Gandhi took the Mayawati government by surprise when he reached Tappal village in Aligarh district, the epicentre of peasants’ protest, Saturday evening. …. Source article  : Rahul Gandhi visits agitating farmers, assures help.

Handling of report on n-bill to be probed: Official

NEW DELHI – Rajya Sabha Secretary General V.K. Agnihotri said Saturday that he was looking into “mishandling” of parliamentary panel’s report on the civil nuclear liability bill with a view to improve the system.

“We will look into it with a view to improve the system,” Agnihotri told IANS.
The standing committee on science and technology, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Handling of report on n-bill to be probed: Official.

First-time voter elected Australian MP

SYDNEY – The first time Australia’s Wyatt Roy was mature enough to vote in a parliamentary election, the 20-year-old had his name on the ballot paper.

He won and is now the Liberal National Party member of parliament for the seat of Longman, a 1,239-square-km spread in Queensland.
“I don’t think I was ever perceived as …. Source  : First-time voter elected Australian MP.

Novice GOP candidate for Senate in Conn. hammers established Democrat again on honesty

GOP candidate in Conn. hammers Democrat on honesty

HARTFORD, Conn. – Richard Blumenthal’s words are haunting him again. Already forced to apologize for saying he had served “in” Vietnam in the Marine Reserve rather than stateside, the state attorney general’s campaign for U.S. Senate is now being challenged to explain his assertion that he had “never … Read more : Novice GOP candidate for Senate in Conn. hammers established Democrat again on honesty.