Opposition to stick to voting on price rise

NEW DELHI – Opposition parties are learnt to be in disagreement with Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee’s formula for ending the crisis in parliament over the mode of discussion on price rise.
Mukherjee, who has invited leaders of all political parties for a breakfast meeting Monday, is likely to stick on the government’s stand that …. Read the original article  : here.

Democrats on defense in dozens of competitive House races across the country; GOP seeks power

GOP looks to erase Democrats’ comfy House majority
WASHINGTON – No fewer than 65 House seats across the country – an overwhelming majority held by Democrats – are at risk of changing political hands this fall, enough to bolster Republican hopes of regaining power.
Even more races could become competitive as voters look to blame … Read more »».

Philippines remembers late democracy icon Corazon Aquino who led 1986 ‘people power’ revolt

Philippines remembers late democracy icon Aquino

MANILA, Philippines – Filipinos paid tribute Sunday to democracy icon Corazon Aquino, who helped lead a 1986 “people power” revolt that ousted a dictator and whose death last year became a springboard for her son’s triumphant run for the presidency.
President Benigno Aquino III led one of several tributes to his …. Read the original article  : Philippines remembers late democracy icon Corazon Aquino who led 1986 ‘people power’ revolt.

Congress and inflation wedded together: Nitish Kumar

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has said the price rise has been a bane of the Congress party, adding that both Congress and inflation are wedded together.

“It is very strange that from the time when we came to our proper sense we are seeing the same thing. It’s been a long …. Original article  : Congress and inflation wedded together: Nitish Kumar.

Rudd considers legal action on leak claim

MELBOURNE – Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is reported to be considering taking legal action against former Foreign Minister Alexander Downer after the latter claimed that the former had leaked damaging information about his Labor Party colleagues.

Incumbent Prime Minister Julia Gillard has dubbed Downer’s comments as “disgraceful”, even as he has downplayed the furor … Read : Rudd considers legal action on leak claim.

Zardari to visit UK ‘to alleviate misconceptions and propagandas against Pak’: Babar

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Law Minister Babar Awan has confirmed that President Asif Ali Zardari will go ahead with his visit to the United Kingdom despite British Prime Minister David Cameron’s hostile remarks against Pakistan.

Zardari had been facing intense domestic pressure to cancel the trip after Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lieutenant General Ahmed Shuja … Read more >>.

‘Mamata ko manao’, says Sonia (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – Congress president Sonia Gandhi continues to take keen interest in the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill and has been telling activists that they should work on Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee for her support.
Mamata’s turnaround on the bill, after initially pledging support, has been a big setback for its … Original article on : ‘Mamata ko manao’, says Sonia (Capital Buzz).

Cameron should condemn HR violations in Kashmir rather than accuse Pak of terror: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that rather than highlighting Pakistan’s role in promoting “export of terror”, British Prime Minister David Cameron should raise his voice against the human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir.

“In India, he [Cameron] has given a statement that we in Pakistan promote terrorism. We want …. Read the original article  : here.

Lalu slams Nitish Kumar over price rise

PATNA – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has accused Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of failing to tackle the hoarding and black marketing, causing price rise.

Addressing a Party function here on Saturday, Yadav said the price rise was a result of wrong policies of both the Bihar Government and … Read more »».

Dmitry Pirog KOs Daniel Jacobs in 5th to win WBO middleweight title; Guerrero tops Casamayor

Pirog flattens Jacobs; Guerrero tops Casamayor

LAS VEGAS – Unheralded Russian middleweight Dmitry Pirog stopped Daniel Jacobs with a crushing overhand right in the fifth round to win the vacant WBO title Saturday night.
Former featherweight champion Robert Guerrero dominated Joel Casamayor in a lopsided unanimous decision to win his debut at 140 pounds, and Jorge Linares …. Original article  : Dmitry Pirog KOs Daniel Jacobs in 5th to win WBO middleweight title; Guerrero tops Casamayor.

Chelsea Clinton says ‘I do’ in a beautiful ceremony

WASHINGTON – Former first daughter Chelsea Clinton married her longtime beau Marc Mezvinsky “in a beautiful ceremony” on a perfect summer Saturday night. In what was billed as the “wedding of the century”.
The bride’s parents, former president Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, issued a statement shortly after the lavish ceremony …. Read the original article  : here.

Clinton daughter weds in mystery-shrouded ceremony

NEW YORK – Chelsea Clinton was married Saturday, though details of the wedding were guarded like state secrets amid a horde of frustrated reporters in Rhinebeck, north of New York City, the family announced.
In a statement emailed to the media, US ex-president Bill Clinton and sitting Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said: … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Clinton daughter weds in mystery-shrouded ceremony.

Chelsea Clinton marries longtime boyfriend at exclusive estate in upstate New York village

Chelsea Clinton weds at exclusive New York estate
RHINEBECK, N.Y. – It was high society inside and high security outside as Chelsea Clinton wed her longtime boyfriend at an elegant estate in a Hudson River village where several prominent guests were spotted beforehand, but the husband-and-wife-to-be stayed out of sight.
The wedding site, a Beaux … Original article on : Chelsea Clinton marries longtime boyfriend at exclusive estate in upstate New York village.

Mexico renews diplomatic ties with Honduras

Mexico City, Aug 1 (IANS/EFE) The Mexican government has said that its ambassador to Tegucigalpa will return to Honduras next week, as it wants to renew diplomatic ties with the Central American nation.

Saturday’s announcement came hours after the Chilean government decided to send back its ambassador to that country.
Mexico’s Foreign Relations Secretariat (SRE) said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mexico renews diplomatic ties with Honduras.

Brazil’s president offers refuge to Iranian woman sentenced to death for committing adultery

Brazil offers haven to Iran woman in adultery case

SAO PAULO – Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva offered on Saturday to provide refuge to a woman who has been sentenced to death in Iran following her conviction for committing adultery.
The case created an international outcry when Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani initially was sentenced to death …. Original source  : Brazil’s president offers refuge to Iranian woman sentenced to death for committing adultery.

Mexico, Chile to return ambassadors to Honduras, recognize new government a year after coup

Mexico, Chile recognize Honduran government

MEXICO CITY – Mexico and Chile are formally recognizing the government of Honduran President Porfirio Lobo a year after his predecessor was ousted by a military-backed coup.
Mexico’s Foreign Relations Department said Saturday in a statement that it will send its ambassador back to Honduras next week.
The department took into account a … Read more : Mexico, Chile to return ambassadors to Honduras, recognize new government a year after coup.

PLO official: Obama warns Abbas bilateral ties might suffer if he rejects talks with Israel

PLO official says Obama sent warning to Abbas
RAMALLAH, West Bank – President Barack Obama warned Mahmoud Abbas in a letter that U.S.-Palestinian relations might suffer if the Palestinian leader refuses to resume direct peace talks with Israel, a senior PLO official said Saturday.
The White House had no comment Saturday. However, the Obama administration …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PLO official: Obama warns Abbas bilateral ties might suffer if he rejects talks with Israel.

Chilean-American author Dorfman: former political foes must to show remorse about wrong acts

Author Dorfman says ex-enemies must show remorse
JOHANNESBURG – Chilean-American author and human rights activist Ariel Dorfman said Saturday that former enemies in both post-apartheid South Africa and in Chile after dictatorship must show remorse for past wrongs if peace and reconciliation is to be achieved within their nations.
Dorfman was giving the eighth Nelson … Read more >>.

Obama says he’ll call GOP’s bluff on deficit talk and offer ‘a bunch of ideas’ of his own

Obama says he’ll call GOP’s bluff on deficit talk
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has a warning for Republicans who denounce the federal deficit but reject proposals to cut it.
Obama tells CBS, “I’m going to call them on their bluff.”
The president promises to have “a bunch of ideas” for deficit reduction, but he didn’t …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama says he’ll call GOP’s bluff on deficit talk and offer ‘a bunch of ideas’ of his own.

Regrets and defiance aboard government flight that takes illegal immigrants back to Mexico

A look inside the government’s deportation flights

CHICAGO – Every day, the federal government gathers hundreds of illegal immigrants and sends them back to Mexico aboard government jets.
An Associated Press reporter was permitted aboard a recent deportation flight that departed from Chicago. The journey offered a rare glimpse into the emotional final hours before immigrants left …. Read the original article  : Regrets and defiance aboard government flight that takes illegal immigrants back to Mexico.

Advani takes on PM over Kashmir violence

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani raised the issue of Kashmir violence in the Lok Sabha on Monday and asked Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to explain steps being taken by the Central Government to control the situation in the Kashmir Valley.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister … Original source on Gaea Times at : Advani takes on PM over Kashmir violence.

Don’t go to Britain, opposition parties tell Zardari

ISLAMABAD – Controversy surrounds Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to Britain, with the opposition urging that it be cancelled following British Prime Minister David Cameron’s remark that the “country must stop exporting terror” and a minister here saying Zardari was paying for it from his own pocket.
Zardari is scheduled to meet … Read more »»».

PM to hold meeting on Babhli dam issue

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, will on Monday meet Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah and Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan to find a solution to the dispute over Maharashtra’s construction of the Babhli dam over the Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh’s Nanded District.

It has been reported that the [..] Read the original article: here.

Manmohan Singh releases commemorative stamp on Muslim League leader

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Monday released a commemorative stamp in honour of late Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader Syed Mohammed Ali Shihab Thangal here Monday.
On the occasion, Dr Singh said: “I am very happy to release this stamp in commemoration of the life and work of … Original article on : Manmohan Singh releases commemorative stamp on Muslim League leader.

Third round of Nepal prime ministerial election today

KATHMANDU – Nepal Parliament will conduct a third runoff election for the post of prime minister today after previous two elections failed to elect a prime minister.

UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias Prachanda and Nepali Congress Parliamentary Party Leader Ram Chandra Poudel are vying for the most sought re-election today.

The Parliament decided to hold …. Read the original article  : Third round of Nepal prime ministerial election today.

Churchill reined in army enthusiasm for fox hunts in the Rhine

LONDON – Former Tory Prime Minister Winston Churchill is said to have prevented senior British Army officers from undertaking equestrian pursuits in Germany immediately after the Second World War.

According to National Archives documents, Churchill, during a dispute between senior army officers and the early 1950s UK government, expressed his absolute opposition to “sports, which annoy … Read more : Churchill reined in army enthusiasm for fox hunts in the Rhine.

Jharkhand bureaucrats turning autocrats: Congress

RANCHI – The Congress in Jharkhand says bureaucrats have become “autocrats” during President’s Rule in the state and is unhappy with decisions like withdrawing facilities provided to former chief ministers.

Union Food Processing Minister Subodh Kant Sahay, who is the Congress’ Ranchi Lok Sabha MP, said the bureaucrats had “gone out of control”.
“It would have …. Source  : Jharkhand bureaucrats turning autocrats: Congress.

Situation in Kashmir ‘grave’: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Stating that the situation in Jammu and Kashmir had “taken a serious turn”, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said in the Lok Sabha Monday that he would make a statement after discussions with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who has rushed to the capital for consultations.
“Jammu and Kashmir is a very sensitive …. Original source  : Situation in Kashmir ‘grave’: Chidambaram.

Obama to set course for changing Iraq mission as US ends combat operations

Obama to set course for changing Iraq mission
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will set a course Monday for the nation’s changing mission in Iraq as the military prepares to end its combat operations there.
In a speech at the national convention of the Disabled American Veterans in Atlanta, Obama was to address the progress … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama to set course for changing Iraq mission as US ends combat operations.

China confirms promotion of Mao Zedong’s grandson, months after first reports

China confirms promotion of Mao Zedong’s grandson

BEIJING – The only grandson of China’s former leader Mao Zedong has been promoted to the rank of major general in the People’s Liberation Army, state media confirmed Monday.
Reports have been circulating for months that military historian Mao Xinyu had gained the rank, but officials had refused to confirm …. Read the original article  : China confirms promotion of Mao Zedong’s grandson, months after first reports.

PM releases postage stamp on Kerala Muslim leader

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday released a commemorative postage stamp on the late Syed Mohammed Ali Shihab Thangal, a Kerala Muslim leader known for his knowledge and commitment to Sufi traditions.
The stamp was released on Thangal’s first death anniversary.
Manmohan Singh, in his speech, described the late leader as …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PM releases postage stamp on Kerala Muslim leader.

Senior US envoy says new sanctions designed to push NKorea to abandon ‘provocative activities’

US envoy: Iran, NKorea nukes threaten security

SEOUL, South Korea – New sanctions against North Korea will target narcotics trafficking, money counterfeiting and other “illicit and deceptive” activities that provide the regime with hard currency used to build nuclear weapons, a senior U.S. envoy said Monday.
Robert Einhorn, the State Department’s special adviser for nonproliferation and arms … Read more »»».

Cameron’s ancestor slew Indian Mutiny rebels with sabre, participated in mass civilian hangings

LONDON – Believe it or not, British Prime Minister David Cameron’s great-great-grandfather, a British cavalryman, helped to suppress the Indian Mutiny of 1857.

William Low is said to have left behind graphic accounts of how he slew rebels with his sabre and participated in a mass hanging of civilians during the two-year mutiny against British rule …. Original article  : Cameron’s ancestor slew Indian Mutiny rebels with sabre, participated in mass civilian hangings.

Cameron’s hostile remarks may affect Pak-UK relations: Kaira

LONDON – Pakistan Information and Broadcasting Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira has expressed concerns that the relationship between Pakistan and the United Kingdom could be affected if British Prime Minister David Cameron repeats his assertions against his country on the issue of terrorism.
Kaira said that Cameron’s hostile remarks that Pakistan was promoting the “export [..] Read the original article: here.

UK ‘could have lost half the cabinet’ due to ATC glitch in Delhi during Cameron flight

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron’s jet was caught in a glitch leaving all pilots “blind,” when an air traffic control system failed as it was about to land in the Indian capital on Wednesday, last week.

According to The Sun, new computer software to prevent mid-air collisions froze for 20 minutes, prompting a disaster …. Source  : UK ‘could have lost half the cabinet’ due to ATC glitch in Delhi during Cameron flight.

Pranab’s breakfast diplomacy brings peace in parliament

NEW DELHI – Peace returned to parliament Monday after leaders of all opposition parties met Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee over breakfast and agreed to hold a debate on rising prices and allow both houses to function peacefully.
The quiet followed consecutive days of crisis that led to repeated adjournments in the first week of …. Read the original article  : here.

Offer for wards of Haryana employees

CHANDIGARH – Announcing a bonanza for wards of government employees, Haryana Monday said it will bear the expenditure on stationery, school shoes, uniforms and transportation of children of state government employees.

Education Minister Geeta Bhukkal said Rs.3,000 would be given annually to the employees to meet these expenses.
The decision would benefit thousands of state government …. Source  : Offer for wards of Haryana employees.

Nepal still awaits new PM

KATHMANDU – More than a month after the resignation of Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, the country is yet to get a new premier thanks to the bitter struggle for power between the two largest parties that could turn Monday’s election into another fiasco.

As Nepal’s parliament begins a third round of voting Monday afternoon to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal still awaits new PM.

Pranab’s breakfast diplomacy – opposition agrees to debate

NEW DELHI – Signalling an end to the deadlock in parliament, leaders of all opposition parties met Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee Monday morning and agreed to hold a debate and allow both houses to function peacefully.
The all-party breakfast meeting agreed to the debate on the issue and to allow parliament to function peacefully [..] Read the original article: here.

Michelle Obama urges Congress to pass legislation on nutrition in school meals

First lady urges Congress to act on school meals
WASHINGTON – First lady Michelle Obama urged Congress to pass legislation that calls for higher nutritional standards for school meals.
In an op-ed essay appearing in Monday’s edition of The Washington Post, Mrs. Obama wrote that the Child Nutrition Bill would require more fruits, vegetables and … Original article on : Michelle Obama urges Congress to pass legislation on nutrition in school meals.

Protests continue against Indian rule in Kashmir; 1 killed in latest police firing

Protests continue against Indian rule in Kashmir

SRINAGAR, India – Government forces in Indian Kashmir fired at hundreds of people protesting New Delhi’s rule over the Himalayan region, killing one person and wounding at least five others Tuesday as weeks of civil unrest continued unabated.
Troops fired at protesters on a highway near Srinagar, the main city … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Protests continue against Indian rule in Kashmir; 1 killed in latest police firing.

Sushma attacks government in Lok Sabha on price rise

NEW DELHI – Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the government over the price rise and fuel hike issues, accusing it of having “betrayed the common man”.

Beginning the debate on the issue in the lower house of parliament, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader lashed out [..] Read the original article: here.

BSP walks out over Dalit funds for Games

NEW DELHI – Alleging that funds meant for Scheduled Castes had been diverted by the Delhi government to the Commonwealth Games, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MPs Tuesday walked out of the Lok Sabha.
Soon after the house re-assembled at 11.40 a.m. following an adjournment, the BSP MPs created an uproar.
BSP’s leader in Lok … Read : BSP walks out over Dalit funds for Games.

Rajya Sabha adjourned thrice over funds diversion

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned for a third time Tuesday as opposition members staged a vociferous protest demanding a calling attention motion on the alleged diversion of funds meant for Dalits for the Commonwealth Games.

The house was adjourned twice during the first hour on the issue before the third adjournment till 2 … Read more : Rajya Sabha adjourned thrice over funds diversion.

Surendran Pillai inducted into Kerala cabinet

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The V.S. Achuthanandan cabinet was expanded Tuesday with the induction of V. Surendran Pillai, the lone Kerala Congress legislator, as ports and youth welfare minister.

Pillai, 54, was sworn in by Governor R.S. Gavai at the Kerala Raj Bhavan. With his induction, the strength of the ministry is 20, including the chief …. Source  : Surendran Pillai inducted into Kerala cabinet.

Zardari to do “plain talking” on terror during meeting with Cameron: Pak official

LONDON – The August 6 meeting between Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari with British Prime Minister David Cameron is likely to escalate the on going tussle between the two countries, as a Pakistani official has revealed that Zardari has made up his mind to do some straight talking during the ’showdown’ conference.

A Pakistani … Read : Zardari to do “plain talking” on terror during meeting with Cameron: Pak official.

Fidel Castro releases his book ‘The Strategic Victory’

HAVANA – Cuba’s revolutionary leader Fidel Castro has released his book “The Strategic Victory”, a memoir of the victory of his rebel forces against the country’s dictator Fulgencio Batista in 1959.

“It’s something special to remember all that,” the Cuban leader said while launching the 896-page memoir at a televised ceremony held at the Havana International …. Source  : Fidel Castro releases his book ‘The Strategic Victory’.

Goa anti-terror squad to keep track of rave parties

PANAJI – Keeping track of terror is not the only responsibility of Goa’s newly-formed anti-terrorism squad (ATS). It is also likely to monitor online adverts for full moon rave parties, online sex trade and shady female escort businesses.

Home Minister Ravi Naik Tuesday said in a written reply in the Goa legislative assembly that “at … Read : Goa anti-terror squad to keep track of rave parties.

UN secretary general’s office denies Kashmir remarks

NEW DELHI – The UN secretary general’s office has clarified that Ban Ki-moon had made no comment on Kashmir or about the India-Pakistan composite dialogue, India’s external affairs ministry clarified Tuesday.

“The government had sought a clarification from the office of the UN secretary general through our Permanent Mission to the UN in New York,” the … Read more : UN secretary general’s office denies Kashmir remarks.

Mayawati slams Dikshit for diverting Dalit funds to CWG

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati has lashed out at her Delhi counterpart Sheila Dikshit for allegedly “diverting” huge amount of funds meant for Dalit upliftment to the Commonwealth Games.

Mayawati also questioned the constitutional validity of the Delhi government’s decision to divert Rs.750 crore in this manner.
“The …. Read the original article  : Mayawati slams Dikshit for diverting Dalit funds to CWG.

Britain to reiterate ‘terror export’ stand during Zardari-Cameron talks in London

LONDON – Notwithstanding Pakistan’s strong objections over Prime Minister David Cameron’s “export of terror” remarks, the British leadership would be repeating its concerns and asking Islamabad to crack down on militants inside its territory during President Asif Ali Zardari’s upcoming London visit.

A spokeswoman for 10 Downing Street, while trying to lower down the …. Source  : Britain to reiterate ‘terror export’ stand during Zardari-Cameron talks in London.

Malaysia scraps visa on arrival facility for Indians, Chinese

PUTRAJAYA – Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has said the visa-on-arrival (VOA) facility offered to visitors from eight countries, including India has been scrapped permanently because it was open to abuse.

The facility was extended to tourists from China, India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myan-mar, Taiwan and Comoros.

He said despite calls by several quarters for the facility …. Source  : Malaysia scraps visa on arrival facility for Indians, Chinese.

Democrats say they’ve drained the swamp of corruption, but there are 2 upcoming ethics trials

Democrats declare swamp of corruption drained

WASHINGTON – Democratic leaders say they’ve emptied the swamp of congressional corruption. Never mind the ethics trials to come for two longtime party members.
“Drain the swamp we did, because this was a terrible place,” Speaker Nancy Pelosi said last week of the Republican rule in the House that ended in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Democrats say they’ve drained the swamp of corruption, but there are 2 upcoming ethics trials.

Kagan confirmation in sight as Senate begins debate on Supreme Court nominee

Confirmation on track, Senate starts Kagan debate
WASHINGTON – A confirmation vote is all but assured for Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan as the Senate begins debate on making her the fourth female justice.
Supporters and opponents were to weigh in during debate starting Tuesday on President Barack Obama’s nominee. A vote is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kagan confirmation in sight as Senate begins debate on Supreme Court nominee.

Vote by NYC landmarks panel could clear the way for proposed mosque near ground zero

Panel vote could clear way for ground zero mosque
NEW YORK – A contentious plan for a mosque near the World Trade Center site will get a boost if New York City’s landmarks panel votes to allow the demolition of the building that is there now.
The mosque would be part of an Islamic center …. Original source  : Vote by NYC landmarks panel could clear the way for proposed mosque near ground zero.

Zardari to counter Cameron’s “uncalled for” remarks during London visit

PARIS – British Prime Minister David Cameron’s recent remarks against the country have infuriated the Pakistani leadership, which is planning to press the issue during President Asif Ali Zardari’s upcoming London visit.

Zardari raised the issue during his talks with French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

During his meeting with Sarkozy, Zardari described Cameron’s statement accusing Islamabad … Read : Zardari to counter Cameron’s “uncalled for” remarks during London visit.

Gordon Brown voted third worst Prime Minister since World War II by academics

LONDON – Former Labour leader Gordon Brown has been named the third worst Prime Minister since World War II, a survey by more than 100 leading academics revealed.

According to The Sun, academics led by University of Leeds Professor Kevin Theakston rated him tenth out of the 12 post-war premiers, ahead of Sir Anthony Eden … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gordon Brown voted third worst Prime Minister since World War II by academics.

PM election gives Nepal sleepless nights

KATHMANDU – Three unsuccessful bids by Nepal’s parliament to elect a new premier more than a month after Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal resigned is giving the nation sleepless nights – literally.

As the 599 lawmakers hold a fourth round of election Friday, Nepalis are getting resigned to further sleep deprivation, thanks to the major parties’ … Read more >>>.

Brown Britain’s third worst PM since WW II

LONDON – Gordon Brown was Britain’s third worst prime minister since World War II, a survey has shown.

A study carried out among 106 leading academics showed Brown was rated tenth of the 12 premiers in office since 1945.
The Sun reported Tuesday that only Sir Anthony Eden and Sir Alec Douglas-Home came behind Brown. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brown Britain’s third worst PM since WW II.

Parliament disrupted over Belgaum, Commonwealth Games

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were adjourned Tuesday as opposition MPs disrupted proceedings over the Belgaum district dispute between Maharashtra and Karnataka and alleged diversion in Commonwealth Games funds.
The Lok Sabha was adjourned for half an hour after leaders from Maharashtra and Karnataka gathered near Speaker Meira Kumar’s podium over the …. Original article  : Parliament disrupted over Belgaum, Commonwealth Games.

Zardari’s Comments Criticized in White House

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) – Asif Ali Zardari, President of Pakistan has criticised the outspoken comments made by the British Prime Minister about Pakistan’s approach to the Taliban.
Le Monde quoted him as saying.
“The international community, of which Pakistan is a part, is losing the war against the Taliban because we have lost the battle for hearts [..] Read the original article: here.

Troops reinforced in Pakistan’s largest city as 13 more people killed in clashes

Extra troops patrol Pakistan city after violence

KARACHI, Pakistan – Pakistan says it has deployed additional security forces in Karachi city after 13 more people were killed in political and ethnic violence.
At least 58 people have now been killed since politician Raza Haider was gunned down on Monday night.
The latest deaths happened in violence overnight.
Traffic was … Read : Troops reinforced in Pakistan’s largest city as 13 more people killed in clashes.

TDP says sorry to Mukherjee after angry words

NEW DELHI – The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Wednesday apologised to Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee after its MP Sivaprasad Naramalli shouted at him during an uproar in the Lok Sabha over the disputed Babhali barrage on the Godavari river.
The house witnessed the unpleasant scene when it reassembled at 11.30 a.m. after an adjournment … Read more : TDP says sorry to Mukherjee after angry words.

UN peacekeepers: Tree at center of deadly Lebanon-Israel border clash was in Israeli territory

UN: Tree in Lebanon-Israel clash was in Israel

BEIRUT – A cypress tree at the center of the most serious clash along the Lebanon-Israel border in the past four years was in Israeli territory, the U.N. peacekeeping force in Lebanon said Wednesday.
Lebanese and Israeli troops exchanged fire Tuesday in a fierce border battle that killed a …. Source  : UN peacekeepers: Tree at center of deadly Lebanon-Israel border clash was in Israeli territory.

Nepal army, Maoist fighters begin fresh sabre-rattling

KATHMANDU – Four years after a peace agreement ended the decade-old Maoist insurgency in Nepal, the army is locked in a fresh dispute with the former guerrillas with both sides vowing to recruit new blood. The UN warned that the move would violate the peace pact.

The Nepal Army triggered the new row by beginning a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal army, Maoist fighters begin fresh sabre-rattling.

Stresses of power ‘turning David Cameron grey’

LONDON – UK Prime Minister David Cameron’s hair is turning grey – courtesy the stresses of power.

Photographs have revealed that Cameron’s dark brown hair is rapidly losing its colour.

A silver patch has appeared behind his ears, just like former leaders Gordon Brown and Tony Blair went grey after taking office.

Cameron, 43, is the youngest … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stresses of power ‘turning David Cameron grey’.

Complicated heart surgery on Gogoi in Mumbai

MUMBAI – A 20-member team of doctors Wednesday began a complicated double heart surgery on Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi at the Asian Heart Institute here.
“The surgeries are progressing well and expected to be over by 3 p.m.,” doctors at the hospital told IANS.
The chief minister is undergoing a bypass surgery and … Read : Complicated heart surgery on Gogoi in Mumbai.

Federal judge expected to issue ruling in San Francisco on California’s gay marriage ban

Judge’s ruling ready in Calif. gay marriage case

SAN FRANCISCO – The first word on whether California’s same-sex marriage ban passes scrutiny under the U.S. Constitution is scheduled to come down Wednesday when a federal judge issues his ruling in a landmark case.
Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker has reached a decision on whether to uphold … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Federal judge expected to issue ruling in San Francisco on California’s gay marriage ban.

Tennessee voters to decide GOP nominee in most expensive congressional race in country

Tenn. voters to decide priciest US House primary

DICKSON, Tenn. – Tennessee voters head to the polls Thursday for a primary in what has turned out to be the most expensive U.S. House race in the country this season.
Democratic Rep. John Tanner is vacating his seat, setting off a heated run in his northwestern Tennessee district. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tennessee voters to decide GOP nominee in most expensive congressional race in country.

CPI-M extended central committee meet from Aug 7

NEW DELHI – The extended central committee meeting of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) will be held in Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh Aug 7-10 to discuss the current political situation.

CPI-M leaders, however, ruled out a change of guard at the meeting. “No organisational revamp will take place during the conference,” a top party source … Read more >>>.

Cake and candles: President going alone to Chicago hometown to celebrate his 49th birthday

Obama turns 49 with Mrs. Obama, kids out of town
WASHINGTON – Home alone, President Barack Obama turned 49 on Wednesday.
First lady Michelle Obama has taken their youngest daughter, Sasha, to Spain. Their other daughter, Malia, is away at summer camp.
Obama hasn’t shied away from talking about his birthday, noting that his hair is … Read more »»».

AP Exclusive: White House had many concerns, but didn’t stop forced ouster of USDA official

AP Exclusive: USDA racial flap reconstructed
WASHINGTON – As a racial firestorm erupted last month, the White House buzzed with questions and concerns about the forced ouster of a black Agriculture Department employee. But no one stepped in to stop Secretary Tom Vilsack from pressuring Shirley Sherrod to resign, a decision administration officials from …. Read the original article  : AP Exclusive: White House had many concerns, but didn’t stop forced ouster of USDA official.

AP Interview: Ginsburg says she plans to remain a justice as 1 of an unprecedented 3 women

Ginsburg anticipates being 1 of 3 female justices
WASHINGTON – Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg says the prospect of three women on the Supreme Court is exhilarating, and she intends to stay around and enjoy it.
After the death of her husband and her own treatment for cancer, there was speculation that the 77-year-old [..] Read the original article: here.

Rick Snyder Gains Republican Nod

LANSING (GaeaTimes.com)- The Republicans from Michigan have ultimately decided their mind and have trusted a political newcomer Rick Snyder with a job to run the race for the post of the Michigan Governor this fall. The post of the Governor is at present held by Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Rick Snyder, on Tuesday …. Read the original article  : Rick Snyder Gains Republican Nod.

Maoists await Shyam Saran visit with mixed feelings

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s biggest party, the Maoists, Wednesday said they were awaiting Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s special envoy, Shyam Saran, with mixed feelings because they regarded India as playing a negative role in the country since it officially became a secular republic in 2008.
New Delhi decided to send Saran, former Indian … Read more >>>.

Lok Sabha adjourned over Babhali barrage row

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned Wednesday for half-an-hour following protests by the members of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Shiva Sena over the Babhali dam dispute over the Godavari river.
As the house convened at 11 a.m., the TDP members came near Speaker Meira Kumar’s podium shouting slogans over … Read more »».

US negotiator says North Korea not ready to make serious commitments in nuclear talks

US negotiator says NKorea not ready for talks

TOKYO – North Korea’s recent actions indicate it is not yet ready to rejoin multilateral talks aimed at getting it to give up its nuclear weapons program, a senior U.S. negotiator said Wednesday.
Robert Einhorn, the State Department’s special adviser for nonproliferation and arms control, said North Korea’s recent …. Source  : US negotiator says North Korea not ready to make serious commitments in nuclear talks.

Cameron rejects Zardari’s assertions on war against Taliban being lost

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has rejected assertions made by Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari that “the battle of hearts and minds” is being lost in Afghanistan.
Zardari, who arrived in the UK just hours after telling a French newspaper that coalition forces had “under-estimated the situation on the ground” in Afghanistan, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cameron rejects Zardari’s assertions on war against Taliban being lost.

Don’t agree with India’s policy on Myanmar: Amartya Sen

NEW DELHI – Sharing the dais with the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, Nobel Laureate economist Amartya Sen, on Tuesday said that he did not agree with India’s policy on Myanmar.
Speaking at a symposium on the ‘Centrality of Literacy’ here, Sen said: “I don’t agree with the Indian policy on Burma.
Sen’s … Read more >>>.

Michigan Election Results 2010

MICHIGAN (GaeaTimes.com) — Michigan gets a new face. The results of the Michigan Election 2010 are out finally. The Governor of Michigan has been decided upon. Reportedly, former Gateway Chief Executive Rick Snyder has won the Michigan Republican primary for governor. Mr. Snyder defeated Representative Pete Hoekstra and state Attorney General Mike Cox in …. Original article  : Michigan Election Results 2010.

2 more people killed in restive Indian Kashmir as demonstrations intensify; death toll hits 48

Violent protests erupt in Kashmir after 2 killed

SRINAGAR, India – The death toll from civil unrest in Indian-controlled Kashmir rose to 48 Thursday after two more people were killed when paramilitary forces opened fire on demonstrators angry about decades of Indian rule over the Himalayan region.
Kashmir has been rocked by violent protests for nearly two … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 2 more people killed in restive Indian Kashmir as demonstrations intensify; death toll hits 48.

Punish those behind honour killings severely: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Thursday said the government was planning to introduce a bill on honour killings in this session of parliament as the perpetrators must be identified and “punished with severity”.
“We are in the final stages of the work. We are consulting all state governments and have asked …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Punish those behind honour killings severely: Chidambaram.

Judge overturns Calif. gay marriage ban, but appeal may put same-sex weddings on hold

Appeal of ruling could delay gay weddings in CA

SAN FRANCISCO – A judge struck down California’s same-sex marriage ban as a violation of the civil rights of gay men and lesbians, but a pending appeal of the landmark ruling could prevent gay weddings from resuming in the state any time soon.
Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn … Read more >>.

Comparing home secretary with Hafiz Saeed ridiculous: Krishna

NEW DELHI – Days after calling home secretary G.K Pillai’s comment prior to the India-Pakistan talks ill-timed, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Thursday termed the comparison of Pillai with terrorist Hafiz Saeed by Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi as “ridiculous”.

“It is ridiculous to compare the home secretary of India to a terrorist,” Krishna …. Source article  : Comparing home secretary with Hafiz Saeed ridiculous: Krishna.

Churchill ‘ordered cover-up of RAF plane’s UFO encounter during WWII’

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill allegedly ordered a cover-up of a Second World War encounter between a UFO and a RAF bomber, as he feared public ‘panic’.

Newly released secret files reveal that Churchill apparently banned reporting of the “bizarre” incident, off the east coast of England, from being reported, as he feared …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Toll in Karachi violence rises to 76

ISLAMABAD – Ethnic violence triggered by the assassination of a politician in Pakistan’s southern port city of Karachi entered its fourth day, taking the death toll to 76, police said Thursday.

Men carried out gun and arson attacks in various parts of Karachi, Pakistan’s commercial hub, hours after assailants shot dead provincial legislator Raza Haider and … Read more : Toll in Karachi violence rises to 76.

Four Bangladesh Islamist students arrested

DHAKA – Four senior members of the students wing of Bangladesh’s largest Islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami, have been arrested on charges of having links with banned militant outfits.

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) nabbed four current and former Islami Chhatra Shibir leaders Wednesday, alleging that they were collecting arms and explosives from outlawed organisations for subversive activities, … Read more >>.

Law on honour killing may be amended

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Thursday said the government was “actively considering” a proposal to amend the existing law or enact a new one to tackle “honour killing”.
“In pursuance of the cabinet decision, a Group of Ministers has been constituted to consider a draft bill on the subject,” Chidambaram said in … Read more >>>.

Zardari hopes to ‘educate’ Cameron on Pak suffering from terrorism

LONDON – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has said he will meet British Prime Minister David Cameron at the latter’s country retreat Chequers in Buckinghamshire, and according to sources, may ‘educate’ Cameron on the suffering that terrorism has caused to his country.
Earlier reports that Zardari had snubbed and rejected an invitation to …. Original source  : Zardari hopes to ‘educate’ Cameron on Pak suffering from terrorism.

Zardari snubs Cameron’s ‘hospitality’ invitation

LONDON – The tussle between British Prime Minister David Cameron and Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has witnessed another twist with the latter rejecting Cameron’s offer of hospitality.
According to reports, Zardari has turned downed an invitation to spend a night at the Buckinghamshire mansion citing his ‘busy’ schedule, however, he would be … Read : Zardari snubs Cameron’s ‘hospitality’ invitation.

Legacy of Detroit’s Kilpatrick family likely ends with congresswoman’s loss in primary

Congresswoman’s loss signals end to family’s reign

DETROIT – The formidable machine that helped keep Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick in Congress and put her son, Kwame, in the Detroit mayor’s office may have finally ground to a halt.
Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick was defeated this week in her bid for an eighth term in the Democratic primary.
The small army …. Source article  : Legacy of Detroit’s Kilpatrick family likely ends with congresswoman’s loss in primary.

Supreme Court nominee Kagan to win Senate confirmation, become fourth woman to be a justice

Senate to confirm Kagan as court’s 4th-ever woman
WASHINGTON – Her confirmation assured, Elena Kagan is on the brink of becoming the fourth woman ever to serve as a Supreme Court justice.
The Senate is set Thursday to confirm President Barack Obama’s nominee, whose addition to the court will mark the first …. Source  : Supreme Court nominee Kagan to win Senate confirmation, become fourth woman to be a justice.

New Kenyan constitution likely to pass, preliminary results show; new era for African country

Early results: New constitution for Kenya likely

NAIROBI, Kenya – Preliminary results announced Thursday showed that Kenya’s new constitution is likely to pass overwhelmingly, but opponents of the new draft questioned the returns.
Preliminary results showed that about 67 percent of the nation voted for the new constitution on Wednesday, with 33 percent voting against it. The …. Original source  : New Kenyan constitution likely to pass, preliminary results show; new era for African country.

UN chief in Nagasaki calls for abolition of nuclear weapons

UN chief in Nagasaki calls for nuclear disarmament

NAGASAKI, Japan – U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for the abolishment of nuclear weapons Thursday during a visit to Nagasaki, one of two Japanese cities devastated by U.S. atomic bombs in the closing days of World War II.
Ban toured the Atomic Bomb Museum and met with six survivors …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UN chief in Nagasaki calls for abolition of nuclear weapons.

Bachelor boy Obama goes without birthday

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama did not get to eat his own birthday cake as he turned 49 with only family dog Bo to keep him company on a trip to his home in Chicago.
Instead of taking the day off to celebrate, Obama Wednesday went to the Washington Convention Centre to address … Read : Bachelor boy Obama goes without birthday.

India not interfering, Shyam Saran tells Nepal Maoists

KATHMANDU – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s special envoy to Nepal Shyam Saran began his whirlwind consultations Thursday by first holding talks with the top leaders of the Maoist party.
The Maoist party had asked New Delhi not to interfere in the crucial prime ministerial election Friday and the formation of a new government. …. Read the original article  : India not interfering, Shyam Saran tells Nepal Maoists.

Gilani rules out military operation as Karachi continues to burn

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has ruled out any military operation is Karachi even as the city continues to witness bloodshed that has resulted in the death of at least 82 civilians and over 20 being injured.

Violence, which had erupted in the country’s commercial town following Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) MPA Raza …. Source  : Gilani rules out military operation as Karachi continues to burn.

Malaysia state chief encourages teen marriages, offers financial aid to young couples

Malaysia state chief encourages teen marriages

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A prominent Malaysian official Thursday encouraged young Muslim teenagers to get married if they cannot resist having sex and promised money to help them start a family – a stance that drew criticism from women’s rights activists.
Mohamad Ali Rustam, chief minister of southern Malacca state, said …. Read the original article  : Malaysia state chief encourages teen marriages, offers financial aid to young couples.

Judge overturns Calif. gay marriage ban, sets stage for same-sex weddings to resume in state

Federal judge strikes down Calif. gay marriage ban

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal judge overturned California’s gay marriage ban Wednesday with an unequivocal ruling that could eventually force the U.S. Supreme Court to confront the question of whether same-sex couples have a constitutional right to wed.
Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker’s strongly worded opinion in the …. Read the original article  : Judge overturns Calif. gay marriage ban, sets stage for same-sex weddings to resume in state.

China defends dealings with Iran after US pressure over sanctions for nuclear program

China defends dealings with Iran after US pressure

BEIJING – China is defending its business relationships with Iran after recent pressure from the United States to fully follow new sanctions against Tehran over its nuclear program.
“China’s trade with Iran is normal business exchange, which will not harm the interests of other countries and the international community,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China defends dealings with Iran after US pressure over sanctions for nuclear program.

BJP’s Muslim leaders are like Jaichand and Mir Jafar

PATNA – Referring to Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Muslim leaders as Jaichand and Mir Jafar, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) general secretary Tariq Anwar Friday said they enjoy no better position than the backstabbers in history.

“The Muslim leaders in the saffron party not only lack support of their community but are also playing the role of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP’s Muslim leaders are like Jaichand and Mir Jafar.

Dolma announces candidature for Tibetan prime minister poll

DHARAMSALA – The political scene for the election of a new prime minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile based in this town has assumed a new dimension with senior Tibetan leader Gyari Dolma announcing her candidature.

Dolma, the first woman deputy speaker of the parliament-in-exile, announced Thursday that she would contest the Kalon Tripa or prime ministerial … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dolma announces candidature for Tibetan prime minister poll.

Government consults Kashmiri opinion makers

NEW DELHI – The Indian government has began a series of consultations with Kashmiri opinion makers to explore ways to salvage the situation in the violence hit Kashmir Valley.
On Thursday, Home Minister P. Chidambaram met a select group of opinion makers here, a senior home ministry official said.
He sought their views on … Read more »».

Azad unimpressed by Geelani’s peace call

NEW DELHI – Central minister and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad is not impressed by hardline separatist Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s call for peace in Kashmir and the relative calm the valley has witnessed since Wednesday.

“We need to know exactly if the relative calm is due to the curfew or is …. Original article  : Azad unimpressed by Geelani’s peace call.

‘Klutz’ Cameron erroneously claims Iran possesses nuke weapon

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has been accused of being a “foreign policy klutz” after mistakenly claiming that Iran possesses a nuclear weapon.

According to The Telegraph, Cameron made his Iran blunder when asked why he was backing Turkey to join the European Union, to which he answered by saying, “I hope that this …. Read the original article  : here.

Iraq will be left to wolves if US withdraws: Saddam’s aide

LONDON – Iraq will be left “to the wolves” if US withdraws its troops from the country, said Saddam Hussein’s right-hand man Tariq Aziz who is currently lodged in an Iraqi prison. He added: “When you make a mistake you need to correct a mistake, not leave Iraq to its death.”
Aziz told The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iraq will be left to wolves if US withdraws: Saddam’s aide.

Kagan to be sworn in as 112th Supreme Court justice Saturday after White House celebration

Kagan to celebrate with Obama, be sworn Saturday
WASHINGTON – It’s all over but the celebrating and oath-taking for soon-to-be Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan.
Kagan is joining President Barack Obama at the White House on Friday for a ceremony to mark her confirmation as the nation’s 112th justice. On Saturday, she’s to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kagan to be sworn in as 112th Supreme Court justice Saturday after White House celebration.

Confident Republicans say GOP must do more to ensure party captures House, Senate

GOP cautiously confident of big gains this fall
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – With Democrats on defense, Republicans expressed cautious confidence of big gains in the fall elections – particularly in governor’s races – though they acknowledged that the GOP must do more to snatch control of Congress from President Barack Obama’s party.
Three months …. Original source  : Confident Republicans say GOP must do more to ensure party captures House, Senate.

AP Exclusive: To keep program secret, CIA whisked 9/11 figures from Gitmo before court ruling

AP Exclusive: CIA whisked detainees from Gitmo

WASHINGTON – The Associated Press has learned that four of the nation’s most highly valued terrorist detainees were secretly moved to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in 2003, years earlier than has been disclosed, then whisked back into overseas prisons before the Supreme Court could give them access to lawyers.
The transfer …. Source article  : AP Exclusive: To keep program secret, CIA whisked 9/11 figures from Gitmo before court ruling.

Zardari’s meeting with Brit MP’s a low-key affair

LONDON – Ahead of his much awaited ’showdown’ with British Prime Minister David Cameron, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari met ministers and few lawmakers here in what is being described as a low key affair.

According to reports, Zardari held talks with four parliamentarians at Pakistan’s High Commission, including the Conservative MPs Rehman …. Read the original article  : Zardari’s meeting with Brit MP’s a low-key affair.

Lok Sabha remembers Hiroshima, Nagasaki victims

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha Friday remembered the victims of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings 65 years ago and reiterated its pledge to make earnest efforts for the “elimination of all weapons of mass destruction and to abjure violence in all forms”.
“This manmade catastrophe has wreaked unimaginable havoc and misery on generations …. Source article  : Lok Sabha remembers Hiroshima, Nagasaki victims.

Police foil land grab attempt by communist activists in Orissa

RAYAGADA – Police foiled an attempt of the activists of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist Liberation) to grab 24 acres of agricultural land in Bisamkatak block of Orissa’s Rayagada district.

Reportedly, over 50 persons, almost all tribals, under the banner of CPI-MLL took over the land forcibly and even started cultivating it, which they claimed … Read more >>>.

Fourth round of Nepal prime ministerial election today

KATHMANDU – Nepal Parliament will conduct a fourth runoff election for the post of prime minister today.

The previous three elections held on July 21, July 23 and August 2 had failed to elect a prime minister.

Unified CPN (Maoist) chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias Prachanda and Nepali Congress vice president Ram Chandra Paudel were in … Original article on : Fourth round of Nepal prime ministerial election today.

Komorowski to be inaugurated as Polish president

Warsaw, Aug 6 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Bronislaw Komorowski will be sworn in as new Polish president Friday at a joint session of the two chambers of parliament.

Komorowski, a 58-year-old pro-European Union (EU) moderate member of the governing Civic Platform party, won the presidential runoff in early July with more than 53 percent of the vote, about … Read more : Komorowski to be inaugurated as Polish president.

Malaysian-Indian minister switches party

KUALA LUMPUR – Senator T. Murugiah, a deputy minister in the prime minister’s department, has joined the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), the largest party of the Indians in the country.

Murugiah, who was the youth wing chief of People’s Progressive Party (PPP), a smaller party with a significant number of ethnic Indians, was sacked after he … Read more : Malaysian-Indian minister switches party.

Older Gazans recall jobs and friends in Israel while isolation radicalizes the youth

Older Gazans recall Israelis, youth sees only army

SHATI REFUGEE CAMP, Gaza Strip – From his ramshackle Gaza home, Palestinian Sobhi Hamami, 61, fondly recalls the 23 years he worked on an Israeli kibbutz, where he learned Hebrew, swam in the pool with Israeli friends and celebrated holidays with his Jewish boss.
His son Mohammed, 21, sees … Read : Older Gazans recall jobs and friends in Israel while isolation radicalizes the youth.

20 states set to ask Florida judge to hear lawsuit challenging Obama’s health care overhaul

States respond to feds’ motion to dismiss lawsuit
PENSACOLA, Fla. – Twenty states and the nation’s most influential small business lobby are about to respond to the federal government’s attempt to dismiss their lawsuit challenging President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul.
The states, the National Federation of Independent Business and several individual taxpayers will file … Original article on : 20 states set to ask Florida judge to hear lawsuit challenging Obama’s health care overhaul.

Obama’s top economic advisor to step down

WASHINGTON – Christina Romer, who chairs the White House Council of Economic Advisors (CEA), will step down next month, Xinhua reported.
After her resignation, effective Sep 3, Romer will resume her position as professor of economics at the University of California, Berkeley, where her son will be starting high school in the fall, the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Michelle Obama, daughter visit Spain’s historic Granada

Granada (Spain), Aug 6 (IANS/EFE) US first lady Michelle Obama and daughter Sasha ended their “unforgettable” visit to this southern Spanish city with a tour of the Alhambra.
They spent about seven hours in Granada Thursday before boarding the caravan to return to the Villa Padierna hotel in Benahavis, near Marbella, where they are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Michelle Obama, daughter visit Spain’s historic Granada.

US needs to differentiate between India and Pakistan (Comment)

Many parallels now exist between how America descended into the Vietnam quagmire and certain trends that are becoming increasingly evident as America commits ever more resources to its endeavor to quell the Taliban-Al Qaida insurgency in Afghanistan.
Losses of life among American forces are dramatically on the rise, and evidence abounds that the jihadi … Read more >>>.

Schwarzenegger asks judge to let same-sex weddings resume immediately in California

Schwarzenegger: Let same-sex weddings resume now

SAN FRANCISCO – California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who twice vetoed legislation that would have legalized same-sex marriage, has surprised gay rights supporters by urging a federal judge to allow gay couples to resume marrying in the state without further delay.
Lawyers for Schwarzenegger, Attorney General Jerry Brown, two gay couples and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Schwarzenegger asks judge to let same-sex weddings resume immediately in California.

Regain lost faith of people, Karat urges CPI-M-led governments

VIJAYAWADA – Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat Saturday asked the party-led governments in West Bengal and Kerala to do their “utmost” to regain the lost faith of the people.

Inaugurating the extended central committee meeting of the party here, Karat said the CPI-M has carefully looked into the causes of the poll …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Zardari fails to “educate” Cameron over Pak’s anti-terrorism efforts

LONDON – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari had vowed to “educate” British Prime Minister David Cameron over Islamabad’s role in ‘war on terror’ after the later attacked Pakistan for ‘exporting terror’, however, the President failed to put up any strong objections during his meeting at the Chequers here.

The meeting between Zardari and Cameron had … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Zardari fails to “educate” Cameron over Pak’s anti-terrorism efforts.

Turkish ship, seized by Israel in flotilla violence in May, arrives in Turkish port

Turkish protest ship returns home
ISTANBUL – The Turkish protest ship that was seized by Israel in a deadly raid in May has returned to Turkey.

Turkish television showed the Mavi Marmara arriving at the Mediterranean port of Iskenderun on Saturday after leaving the Israeli port of Haifa on Thursday. Another Turkish vessel released by Israeli also …. Read the original article  : here.

President to visit Tripura, Mizoram next month

AGARTALA/AIZAWL – President Pratibha Patil will visit Mizoram and Tripura next month to attend the convocations of universities of the two northeastern states, officials said Saturday.

“The president would arrive in Aizawl Sep 23 to attend the sixth convocation of the Mizoram University as chief guest next day,” a Mizoram government official told reporters.
According to … Original source on Gaea Times at : President to visit Tripura, Mizoram next month.

UPA government policies aimed to help super rich: CPI-M

VIJAYAWADA – Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat Saturday slammed the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government saying its policies were designed to help only the super-rich.

“The Congress-led government’s policies are designed to help big businesses make super profits and to enable the transfer of resources to the rich and powerful,” Karat …. Read the original article  : here.

Trinamool-Maoist gangs killed 250 CPI-M activists: Karat

VIJAYAWADA – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Saturday alleged that the Trinamool Congress, led by Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee, and Maoists were working in tandem and over 250 CPI-M activists have been killed by “TMC (Trinamool Congress)-Maoist gangs”.

Addressing the inaugural session of four-day meet of the central committee here, CPI-M general secretary Prakash Karat …. Original source  : Trinamool-Maoist gangs killed 250 CPI-M activists: Karat.

US official: Americans among 10 killed by militants in remote northern Afghanistan

Americans among 10 killed in northern Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Americans are among 10 people killed by militants in an ambush in a remote, forested area of Badakhshan province in northern Afghanistan, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul said Saturday.
“We have reason to believe that several American citizens are among the deceased,” said Caitlin Hayden, an embassy …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

CPI-M supports ‘maximum autonomy’ for Kashmir

VIJAYAWADA – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Saturday said the central government had failed to solve the Kashmir issue and supported “maximum autonomy” for the troubled state as its problems “can’t be resolved through conventional means”.

In his inaugural speech at the CPI-M’s four-day central committee meeting in this Andhra Pradesh city, party general secretary … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : CPI-M supports ‘maximum autonomy’ for Kashmir.

Zardari ‘hurt’ by Cameron’s anti-Pak ‘terror export’ tirade

LONDON – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has said that British Prime Minister David Cameron’s accusation of Islamabad promoting terrorism has ‘hurt’ him personally, as his wife, Benazir Bhutto, had succumbed to extremism as well.

In an interview with The Times, Zardari said Cameron’s jibe against Pakistan questioned his own credentials.

“Everybody is sensitive, as we have … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Zardari ‘hurt’ by Cameron’s anti-Pak ‘terror export’ tirade.

Indo-US ties ‘defining partnership of 21st century’: Senate

WASHINGTON – Noting that President Barack Obama considers India-US relationship as “one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century,” the US senate has resolved to foster and advance the strategic partnership between the two nations.

A bipartisan resolution introduced by Republican John Cornyn and co-sponsored by Democrat Christopher Dodd, to mark the 63rd anniversary of …. Read the original article  : here.

Manmohan Singh: silence is not always golden (Comment)

Jawaharlal Nehru was a close approximation of Plato’s philosopher-king. Of all other prime ministers after him, Manmohan Singh has the most distinguished academic record. Yet, the gentle Sikh lacks the communication skills of the patrician Kashmiri Brahmin.

Whereas the first prime minister, who was known for his eloquence, spent considerable time even during public rallies to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Schwarzenegger announces plans for trade mission to Russia to develop high-tech partnerships

Schwarzenegger announces trade mission to Russia

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has announced he will travel to Russia to work with the country on developing its high-tech industry.
He made the remarks Friday during a business round table discussion in Santa Clara. He says California should use its brainpower and technology to form business partnerships …. Original source  : Schwarzenegger announces plans for trade mission to Russia to develop high-tech partnerships.

Horse groups ask federal court for emergency blockage of mustang roundup in Calif., Nevada

Horse advocates ask court to halt mustang roundup

RENO, Nev. – Horse protection advocates are upping the ante in a legal battle over thousands of free-roaming mustangs in the West.
Lawyers for In Defense of Animals and others asked the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on Friday for an emergency order to block …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Horse groups ask federal court for emergency blockage of mustang roundup in Calif., Nevada.

Plaintiffs in gay marriage trial ask judge to allow weddings in Calif. during appeal

Gay marriage lawyers want weddings allowed soon

SAN FRANCISCO – The lawyers who convinced a federal judge to overturn California’s gay marriage ban are now urging him to immediately allow same-sex couples to wed.
The attorneys filed their motion Friday and were joined by the city of San Francisco, another plaintiff in the lawsuit that led U.S. …. Original article  : Plaintiffs in gay marriage trial ask judge to allow weddings in Calif. during appeal.

Venezuela’s Chavez optimistic as foreign minister headed to Colombia, Silva seeks to mediate

Chavez: foreign minister headed to Colombia

CARACAS, Venezuela – President Hugo Chavez said Friday that his foreign minister will attend the inauguration of Colombia’s new president, and he expressed optimism that Brazil’s president may help ease tensions between Venezuela and Colombia.
The visit by Foreign Minister Nicolas Maduro could be a first step toward restoring dialogue and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Venezuela’s Chavez optimistic as foreign minister headed to Colombia, Silva seeks to mediate.

Cuba state TV: Fidel Castro will attend parliament meeting for first time in 4 years

Fidel Castro to attend session of Cuba parliament

HAVANA – Fidel Castro plans to attend a special session of Cuba’s parliament on Saturday, the latest step in the bearded revolutionary’s public re-emergence after years spent out of the spotlight following emergency intestinal surgery.
Castro’s presence in the legislature – reported late Friday by Cuban state television – … Read more »»».

Montana health officials say loophole allows out-of-state residents to get medical marijuana

Out-of-state residents can get medical pot cards

HELENA, Mont. – A person doesn’t have to live in Montana to receive a medical marijuana card from the state, health officials said Friday.
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services discovered what it calls a loophole in state law after reviewing plans to require medical marijuana applicants … Original article on : Montana health officials say loophole allows out-of-state residents to get medical marijuana.

Investigation finds no violations of law at California university over Sarah Palin visit

Calif. university didn’t break law in Palin visit

SAN FRANCISCO – A state investigation into fundraising practices at California State University, Stanislaus found no violations of law or misuse of funds at its charitable foundation related to a Sarah Palin visit.
Attorney General Jerry Brown said Friday that the CSU Stanislaus Foundation exercised inadequate oversight of its …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Federal investigators seek documents from 2 of W.Va. Gov. Joe Manchin’s Cabinet agencies

Feds seek documents from 2 of W.Va. gov’s agencies

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Federal investigators have requested documents and information from two Cabinet agencies under West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin, though the Democrat’s office said Friday that neither subpoena targeted the governor.
Documents were requested from the Department of Administration and the Division of Highways, said Dwane Tinsley, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Federal investigators seek documents from 2 of W.Va. Gov. Joe Manchin’s Cabinet agencies.

Trinamool alliance can wait, party to be strengthened first: Bengal PCC chief (Interview)

KOLKATA – Strengthening the Congress, which has been plagued by desertions and factional feuds in West Bengal, is top priority for the party’s new state chief Manas Bhunia. He says forging an alliance with the Trinamool Congress for next year’s assembly polls comes only later.

“As state Congress president, strengthening my party at the grassroots is …. Original source  : Trinamool alliance can wait, party to be strengthened first: Bengal PCC chief (Interview).

Australia’s resurgent opposition party launches election campaign by attacking gov’t disunity

Australian opposition launches election campaign

CANBERRA, Australia – Australia’s resurgent opposition party officially launched its election campaign Sunday with an attack on a bitterly divided government while the prime minister pledged to fight through the adversity facing her party.
The conservative Liberal Party campaign launch comes a week before the ruling Labor Party’s, with most opinion polls … Read more : Australia’s resurgent opposition party launches election campaign by attacking gov’t disunity.

Religious ceremonies mark anniversary of bloody, pro-democracy uprising in Myanmar in 1988

Quiet ceremonies mark Myanmar’s bloody anniversary

YANGON, Myanmar – Subdued religious ceremonies by activists and pro-democracy politicians marked the anniversary Sunday of the 1988 uprising that was brutally crushed by Myanmar’s military.
More than 1 million people rose up Aug. 8 that year to protest an entrenched military-backed regime headed by Gen. Ne Win that had wiped …. Read the original article  : Religious ceremonies mark anniversary of bloody, pro-democracy uprising in Myanmar in 1988.

Shoes hurled at Zardari in Britain

LONDON – A man threw both his shoes at Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari when he was addressing a public meeting in Birmingham. The shoes landed just short of him.

The Telegraph Sunday reported that Zardari, who has been criticised for visiting Britain while there were floods in his country, was in the middle of his … Original article on : Shoes hurled at Zardari in Britain.

South Korean president names new prime minister, 7 other ministers in Cabinet reshuffle

SKorean president names new prime minister

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korean President Lee Myung-bak has named former provincial governor Kim Tae-ho as his new prime minister as part of a Cabinet reshuffle.
Presidential secretary for public relations Hong Sang-pyo said Sunday in a televised news conference that the shake-up also included the minister of knowledge economy, …. Source article  : South Korean president names new prime minister, 7 other ministers in Cabinet reshuffle.

China-India ties to be big story of 21st century: Rao

NEW DELHI – The relationship between India and China is a complex one but will be the “big story of the 21st century”, Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao said.

In an interview with Karan Thapar in CNN-IBN’s Devil’s Advocate programme, Rao said that an “intelligently transacted dialogue” enables both the interlocutors to place their issues, which leads … Original article on : China-India ties to be big story of 21st century: Rao.

Afghanistan won’t allow Pakistan to erode sovereignty: Rao

NEW DELHI – Afghanistan is too independent to allow Pakistan to erode its sovereignty and the gradual progress the war-ravaged country has made, says Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao.

“Afghanistan is a fiercely independent country. And the take away we have had from meetings with the Afghan leadership in the recent past is that they are zealous … Read more : Afghanistan won’t allow Pakistan to erode sovereignty: Rao.

India’s dialogue is with Pakistan’s civilian government: Foreign Secretary

NEW DELHI – India will continue to have a dialogue with Pakistan’s civilian government and does not plan to establish any direct contact with its military, Indian Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao has said.

In an interview broadcast on CNN-IBN’s “Devil Advocate”, Rao was asked by host Karan Thapar if there was a need for India to …. Source  : India’s dialogue is with Pakistan’s civilian government: Foreign Secretary.

Santos assumes Colombia’s presidency amid conciliation with Venezuela, Ecuador

Colombia’s new leader conciliatory with neighbors

BOGOTA, Colombia – Juan Manuel Santos, sworn in Saturday as Colombia’s 59th president, vowed to cement security gains but declared himself open to dialogue with rebels in hopes of ending the Western Hemisphere’s only armed conflict.
He also got to work immediately mending frayed relations with neighboring Venezuela and Ecuador.
Although he [..] Read the original article: here.

Supporter rallies and political intrigue liven final day of Haiti’s candidate registration

Fanfare, intrigue at sign ups for Haiti election

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Last-minute political intrigue matched the ruckus outside Haiti’s election headquarters Saturday as candidate registration for the post-earthquake presidential race rollicked to a close.
The biggest shake-up came inside President Rene Preval’s Unity party, which revealed it is not backing former Prime Minister Jacques-Edouard Alexis after all. … Read more »»».

Santos assumes Colombia’s presidency; Venezuela’s foreign minister strikes conciliatory note

Santos becomes Colombia’s 59th president
BOGOTA, Colombia – Juan Manuel Santos was sworn in Saturday as the 59th president of Colombia, which despite major security gains remains the Western Hemisphere’s only nation beset by a politically based armed conflict.

A reminder of that was the absence of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez among the 14 Latin American and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Santos assumes Colombia’s presidency; Venezuela’s foreign minister strikes conciliatory note.

Juan Manuel Santos takes over as Colombia’s president

BOGOTA – Conservative Juan Manuel Santos took office Saturday as Colombia’s new president, to succeed his former boss Alvaro Uribe with a four-year mandate.

The ceremony in Bogota’s Bolivar Square was attended by some 5,000 invited guests, as well as most Latin American and Caribbean leaders including presidents Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, Felipe … Original article on : Juan Manuel Santos takes over as Colombia’s president.

Santos assumes Colombia’s presidency, Venezuela’s foreign minister in attendance

Santos sworn in as Colombia’s 59th president

BOGOTA, Colombia – Juan Manuel Santos has been sworn in as the 59th president of Colombia – the Western Hemisphere’s only nation beset by an armed conflict.
A reminder of the conflict was the absence of Venezeulan President Hugo Chavez among the 14 Latin American presidents attending Saturday’s inauguration.
Chavez broke …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

3 women on Supreme Court may have more impact on court’s daily routine than outcome of rulings

3 women on high court: Historic but impact unclear

WASHINGTON – At least once a term for 13 years, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg recalled, some lawyer arguing before the Supreme Court would mistake her for Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, or vice versa.
No matter that Brooklyn-born Ginsburg and O’Connor, raised on a ranch in Arizona, look and …. Original article  : 3 women on Supreme Court may have more impact on court’s daily routine than outcome of rulings.

Doctors: Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo has non-Hodgkin lymphoma; prognosis is good

Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo has cancer

ASUNCION, Paraguay – Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo has been diagnosed with cancer but his prognosis is good, doctors said Saturday.
Physicians found non-Hodgkin lymphoma in a growth they removed from Lugo’s groin last week, hematologist Alfredo Boccia said. The cancer affects the lymphocytes, or white blood cells.
Lugo will likely have to …. Source article  : Doctors: Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo has non-Hodgkin lymphoma; prognosis is good.

Kagan sworn in as 112th justice, fourth woman ever to serve on US Supreme Court

Kagan sworn in as fourth woman on Supreme Court

WASHINGTON – Elena Kagan has been sworn in as the 112th justice and fourth woman ever to serve on the Supreme Court.
Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath to Kagan in a ceremony Saturday at the court. Joined by family and friends, Kagan pledged in the oath …. Read the original article  : here.

Fidel Castro addresses Cuban parliament

HAVANA – Cuba’s revolutionary leader Fidel Castro Saturday delivered a speech on the Iranian nuclear issue before country’s parliament, his first official appearance in four years.

Dressed in his trademark olive green military uniform, the 83-year-old leader was greeted with applause as he walked in, Xinhua reported.
Castro warned that there could be a nuclear …. Source  : Fidel Castro addresses Cuban parliament.

Kashmiris hold protest in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Kashmiri students and professionals living in Delhi Saturday took out a rally here to protest the human rights violations back home.

Hundreds of Kashmiris assembled at the Jantar Mantar and demanded a political solution to the Kashmir issue, rather than “a military one”.
Among the other demands put forth were the demilitarisation of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kashmiris hold protest in Delhi.

Coats tries to take road less traveled _ backward through Washington’s revolving door

Coats tries to go back through D.C. revolving door

INDIANAPOLIS – The lobbying office Dan Coats left in February to pursue a return to the U.S. Senate is only about two miles from the Capitol, but the path from the lobbying world back to Congress is rarely traveled.
In 1940, women’s suffragist Jeannette Rankin of Montana, the … Read more : Coats tries to take road less traveled _ backward through Washington’s revolving door.

Venkaiah Naidu demands JPC of CWG projects

HYDERABAD – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday termed the alleged large-scale corruption in 2010 Commonwealth Games projects as a ‘national shame’, and demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe seeking the intervention of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh into the matter.

“It’s …. Read the original article  : Venkaiah Naidu demands JPC of CWG projects.

Uproar in Lok Sabha over Mamata’s Lalgarh rally

NEW DELHI – The Left parties in the Lok Sabha Monday asked the central government to clarify its stand on the Maoists after a “responsible party in the government and their ministers” decided to hold a rally in West Bengal’s Maoist-affected Lalgarh.

The Trinamool Congress, however, rejected the allegation, saying that the party and its leader, [..] Read the original article: here.

Andaman tribals not primitive: Jairam Ramesh

NEW DELHI – Environment and Forests Minister Jairam Ramesh Monday objected to calling the native tribals of Andaman and Nicobar “primitive tribes” even as their decreasing numbers continue to be a major concern.

“We must stop using the term primitive, use the term original inhabitants,” Ramesh said while replying to supplementaries in the Rajya Sabha. … Read : Andaman tribals not primitive: Jairam Ramesh.

Illegal mining issue: Congress treads into Reddy’s Bellary turf

BELLARY – The Congress Party’s 320-kilometer ‘Bellary Chalo’ padayatra from Bangalore to press the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Government in Karnataka to order a CBI inquiry into the illegal mining issue is set to enter the mining hub of Bellary on Monday.

Tight security arrangements have been made so that the rally goes off … Original article on : Illegal mining issue: Congress treads into Reddy’s Bellary turf.

‘Greedy’ Tony Blair wants 150 pounds for signed edition of memoirs

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has been accused of being evangelical and messianic, and now, greedy – he wants 150 pounds for signed edition of his memoirs said to look like a Bible.

Blair is expecting to gain maximum returns from the American markets for his signed, numbered limited edition of ‘A Journey’.

Pre-orders … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Greedy’ Tony Blair wants 150 pounds for signed edition of memoirs.

Book by author threatened with jail says Chinese premier’s reform rhetoric just an act

Book says Chinese premier is no reformist
HONG KONG – A book by a Chinese dissident author who says he was threatened with imprisonment argues China’s premier is not a reformist nor a man of the people, as popularly perceived at home, but a mediocre technocrat who rose to power through good acting.
Excerpts …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Book by author threatened with jail says Chinese premier’s reform rhetoric just an act.

Rwandans start voting in presidential election, incumbent expected to handily win

Rwandans vote in presidential election
KIGALI, Rwanda – Rwandans are choosing a new leader in the central African republic’s second presidential vote since the 1994 genocide.

Incumbent candidate Paul Kagame is widely expected to win Monday’s vote as his economic and social development record has earned him many supporters in this landlocked country.
Voters began heading to polling …. Original source  : Rwandans start voting in presidential election, incumbent expected to handily win.

Shiv Sena walks out of Rajya Sabha over Babhali barrage

NEW DELHI – The question hour in the Rajya Sabha witnessed much disturbance Monday as Shiv Sena members staged a walkout when their demand for discussing the Babhali barrage row was not taken up.

As the house met for question hour, the Shiv Sena members led by Manohar Joshi were on their feet, demanding that the …. Original article  : Shiv Sena walks out of Rajya Sabha over Babhali barrage.

Letitia Long to become first woman in charge of a major US intelligence agency

First woman to head major US intelligence agency

WASHINGTON – The United States has had three female secretaries of state – but until now has never had a woman lead one of its 16 major intelligence agencies.
Letitia A. Long is being elevated Monday to director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency in a ceremony at the agency’s …. Source article  : Letitia Long to become first woman in charge of a major US intelligence agency.

Pak flood disaster has spiralled beyond govt’s capacity: Gilani

SUKKUR – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has admitted that the unprecedented devastation caused by the country’s worst ever floods has spiralled beyond the government’s control.

“The government has done everything possible, but it is beyond our capacity, we are facing an extremely difficult situation,” The Daily Times quoted Gilani, as saying.

“Millions of …. Original source  : Pak flood disaster has spiralled beyond govt’s capacity: Gilani.

House members return to vote on jobs bill for teachers and government workers

House members scurry back to pass jobs bill

WASHINGTON – House members are giving up a couple of days reconnecting with folks in their districts this week to pass a jobs bill that Democrats say is crucial to the nation’s well-being.
The unusual in-and-out session was called because the Senate waited until last Thursday, after the House …. Source  : House members return to vote on jobs bill for teachers and government workers.

Turkey’s government, military reach agreement on filling top armed forces posts

Turkish government, military reach deal on posts

ANKARA, Turkey – Turkey’s government and military have reached a deal on appointing the two top military positions – an agreement that highlights growing civilian authority over a military that once shaped politics in the EU candidate country.
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan had refused last week to approve the …. Read the original article  : Turkey’s government, military reach agreement on filling top armed forces posts.

Sonia attends Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – Congress president Sonia Gandhi attended the Lok Sabha Monday for the first time since the monsoon session started last month.

Parliamentarians, particularly from her party, greeted Gandhi, who reached the house before the proceedings began. She sat near leader of the house and Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in the front row of …. Original article  : Sonia attends Lok Sabha.

Uproar in Lok Sabha over Mamata’s rally in Lalgarh

NEW DELHI – There was an uproar in Lok Sabha Monday over Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee’s “apolitical” rally in West Bengal’s Maoist stronghold of Lalgarh. Pro-Maoist tribal groups are expected to attend the rally.

Left party MPs tried to raise the issue at the beginning of question hour, but Trinamool Congress MPs protested vociferously.
Parliamentary …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Uproar in Lok Sabha over Mamata’s rally in Lalgarh.

Freed Israeli photographer to return home after 5 months’ imprisonment in Libya

Israeli held in Libya returning home after release

JERUSALEM – An Israeli arrested and imprisoned in Libya last March while photographing Jewish sites will return to Israel on Monday after being freed in a complicated deal engineered by Israel’s foreign minister, officials said.
Rafael Rafram Haddad, an Israeli-Tunisian dual national, was in Libya on behalf of an … Read more : Freed Israeli photographer to return home after 5 months’ imprisonment in Libya.

Hong Kong transgender woman challenges marriage ban in court; city’s first such case

Hong Kong transgender woman fights marriage ban

HONG KONG – A Hong Kong court began reviewing Monday a government decision to bar a transgender woman from marrying her male partner in the first such case to be heard in the city’s legal system, the woman’s lawyer said.
The woman, a local resident in her 20s who can … Original article on : Hong Kong transgender woman challenges marriage ban in court; city’s first such case.

Cameron going bald

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron seems to be actually losing hair over the massive budget deficit as a bald patch on his pate is unmistakable.

Daily Express Monday reported that the bald patch near the 43-year-old’s crown in an otherwise lustrous head of hair can be clearly seen.
He is not the only one …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mamata Banerjee to hold rally in Lalgarh today

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee will hold a public rally in Lalgarh against the Left Government misrule in West Bengal today.

The rally will be organised under non-political forum ‘Santras Virodhi Manch’ and will be attended by socialites Swami Agnivesh and Medha Patkar.

Banerjee has called the rally following the anger … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mamata Banerjee to hold rally in Lalgarh today.

Keep Bihar electoral officer away from poll duty: opposition

PATNA – Bihar’s opposition leaders met Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi, who is on a two-day visit, and demanded that the state’s Chief Electoral Officer Sudhir Kumar Rakesh and other officials be kept away in the upcoming assembly polls, an official said Monday.

Apart from Rakesh, the parties wanted that block development officers (BDO), circle officers … Original source on Gaea Times at : Keep Bihar electoral officer away from poll duty: opposition.

Nagasaki marks 65th anniversary of US atomic bomb, no American representative at ceremony

Nagasaki marks 65th anniversary of US atomic bomb

TOKYO – The Japanese city of Nagasaki marked the 65th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bomb attack on Monday with a record 32 countries attending – but no American representative.
A moment of silence was observed at 11:02 a.m., the time when the United States dropped an atomic bomb … Read more »»».

Spanish monarchs welcome Michelle Obama

Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Aug 9 (IANS/EFE) Spain’s King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia, accompanied by Princess of Asturias Letizia, welcomed US first lady Michelle Obama and her daughter Sasha to a private luncheon before they concluded their vacation in Spain.

The wife and younger daughter of US President Barack Obama reached the Marivent Palace, the … Read more »»».

US warship visits former foe Vietnam, China warns US to stay out of Yellow Sea

US Navy warship docks in former foe Vietnam

HANOI, Vietnam – A warship from the United States docked Tuesday in central Vietnam where the former foes planned to conduct navy training, in a sign of growing military ties amid new warnings from China for the U.S. to stay out of its backyard.
The USS John S. McCain’s … Original article on : US warship visits former foe Vietnam, China warns US to stay out of Yellow Sea.

Committed to combat LeT-Al Qaeda terror syndicate: US

NEW DELHI – The United States is “committed” to destroying and defeating all terror syndicates, including the “strong connectivity” that Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Al Qaeda have built, visiting US Under Secretary of Defence for Policy Michele Flournoy said Tuesday.
Flournoy, who arrived here Monday after a visit to Pakistan, said India and the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Committed to combat LeT-Al Qaeda terror syndicate: US.

BJP, Left attack Mamata over Lalgarh, seek PM’s clarification

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha Tuesday saw a united opposition attacking the government over Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s speech in Lalgarh asking for a probe into the “murder” of Maoist spokesperson Azad. It demanded that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh clarify the government’s position on tackling Maoists.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gopinath Munde … Read more : BJP, Left attack Mamata over Lalgarh, seek PM’s clarification.

BJP seeks PM’s statement on Mamata rally, walks out of Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha following an altercation with the treasury benches and seeking a statement from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s speech in Maoist-hit Lalgarh.
During her speech in Lalgarh in West Bengal Monday, Banerjee had questioned the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BJP seeks PM’s statement on Mamata rally, walks out of Rajya Sabha.

WHO says decision on whether to downgrade swine flu pandemic is likely Tuesday

WHO: Decision on swine flu pandemic likely Tuesday

GENEVA – The World Health Organization says it will likely decide Tuesday whether to declare the swine flu pandemic over.
Spokesman Gregory Hartl says an expert panel is discussing with WHO Director-General Margaret Chan whether to shift the global body’s pandemic alert from its current phase 6 level – … Read : WHO says decision on whether to downgrade swine flu pandemic is likely Tuesday.

Colorado GOP voters face a tough, and dispiriting, choice in gubernatorial primary

Colo. GOP voters face gubernatorial primary choice

DENVER – Colorado’s Republican voters face tough – some might say dispiriting – choices in Tuesday’s primary. Should they vote for an accused plagiarist, or an opponent whose grasp of public policy has been questioned several times?
Should they even wait to see if someone better comes along after the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Colorado GOP voters face a tough, and dispiriting, choice in gubernatorial primary.

Democratic Colorado senator Michael Bennet waits to hear if he’ll keep job in primary

Colo. senator waiting to hear if he’ll keep job
DENVER – Democratic U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet battled for his job Tuesday in a Colorado primary against Andrew Romanoff, a former state House speaker whose grass-roots campaign and embrace of the nation’s anti-establishment mood has him within striking distance of an upset.
Republicans in the state …. Read the original article  : here.

Democratic Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet waiting to hear if he’ll keep job in primary

Colo. senator waits to hear if he’ll keep job

DENVER – Colorado Democrat Michael Bennet is the latest incumbent senator battling for his job.
Bennet faces Andrew Romanoff, a former Colorado House speaker, in a primary challenge Tuesday marked by the anti-establishment mood seen in every corner of the nation.
Republicans have their own outsider-versus-insider Senate story line. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Democratic Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet waiting to hear if he’ll keep job in primary.

Mamata bashing unites opposition, BJP demands PM’s intervention (Afternoon Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Congress found itself cornered by a united opposition in parliament Tuesday over Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s speech in Lalgarh questioning the manner in which Maoist leader Azad had been killed and the BJP demanding that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh intervene in the issue.
Both houses of parliament witnessed vociferous demands …. Read the original article  : Mamata bashing unites opposition, BJP demands PM’s intervention (Afternoon Lead).

PM should speak on Mamata’s Lalgarh speech: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday demanded that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh clear the air over Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s speech at Lalgarh slamming the manner in which Maoist spokesperson Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad had been killed last month.
Both houses of parliament witnessed vociferous demands to take up the …. Read the original article  : PM should speak on Mamata’s Lalgarh speech: BJP.

In emergency session, House takes up $26 billion bill to help teachers, public workers

House moves to help teachers, public workers
WASHINGTON – House Democrats are convening an emergency session to pass a bill aimed at saving hundreds of thousands of teachers and other public workers from unemployment.
The one-day session Tuesday also may address another issue that will be on voters’ minds this November – lax border security …. Read the original article  : In emergency session, House takes up $26 billion bill to help teachers, public workers.

UN: Afghan civilians killed, injured rose 31 percent in first 6 months of the year

UN: Afghan citizens killed, injured rising sharply

KABUL, Afghanistan – The number of civilians killed or wounded in the Afghan conflict rose 31 percent in the first six months of the year, and anti-government forces caused about three-quarters of the casualties, the United Nations said in a report Tuesday.
“The human cost of this conflict is unfortunately … Read more >>>.

Rudd appointed to UN panel to tackle global sustainability issues

CANBERRA – Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has been appointed to an unpaid part-time position on a “high-level” United Nations panel to tackle global sustainability issues.

“This appointment is entirely consistent with Rudd’s work as a member of Parliament should he be re-elected at the coming election,” The Sydney Morning Herald quoted an UN spokesman, … Original article on : Rudd appointed to UN panel to tackle global sustainability issues.

Manmohan Singh to meet all-party delegation from Kashmir

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will meet an all-party delegation from Jammu and Kashmir led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss the current situation in the Valley.
The meeting will he held at the Prime Minister’s official 7-Race Course residence at 6 p.m. today
During the meeting, Dr. … Read more »».

‘Rise of India makes South Asia matter more to US’

WASHINGTON – The rise of India and the difficulties of Pakistan has made South Asia matter more in the reckoning of the United States even as “Europe means a little less” and American power has seen a “relative decline”, according to a former Bush era official.
Richard Armitage, former deputy secretary of state, said …. Source  : ‘Rise of India makes South Asia matter more to US’.

Mamata bashing unites BJP, Left in Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha Tuesday witnessed rare unity between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Left parties with both attacking Trinamool Congress chief and Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee over her rally in Lalgarh.
Addressing a rally at the Maoist stronghold of Lalgarh in West Bengal Monday, Banerjee condemned “the manner” in …. Read the original article  : Mamata bashing unites BJP, Left in Lok Sabha.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Mamata rally

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon Tuesday following heated words between the opposition and the treasury benches over the Bharatiya Janata Party’s demands for suspending question hour for a discussion on Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s rally at Lalgarh.
As soon as the house assembled at 11 a.m., Leader … Original article on : Rajya Sabha adjourned over Mamata rally.

High security in Chandigarh for farmers’ rally

CHANDIGARH – Elaborate security arrangements were made in Chandigarh and all 20 entry points from Punjab were sealed Tuesday in view of a farmers’ rally here, police said.

“We have made elaborate law and order and security arrangements. All the 20 outer-border nakas have been established under the supervision of senior police officials,” Chandigarh Senior Superintendent …. Original source  : High security in Chandigarh for farmers’ rally.

Japan apologizes for its colonial rule of Korea

TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan apologized Tuesday to South Korea for his nation’s colonial rule of Korea ahead of the 100th anniversary of the annexation of the Korean peninsula later this month.

Kan expressed regret for the suffering inflicted during the
1910-45 colonial period, in a statement released five days before Koreans celebrate their … Read : Japan apologizes for its colonial rule of Korea.

CAPITAL CULTURE: For Team Obama, choosing the right setting in the mansion with a message

CAPITAL CULTURE: White House backdrop is fine art
WASHINGTON – When President Barack Obama addressed the nation from the Oval Office for the first time, Americans knew in an instant the Gulf oil spill had become a full-blown crisis.
His prime-time speech, in a setting that bespeaks the power of the presidency, telegraphed a vital …. Original source  : CAPITAL CULTURE: For Team Obama, choosing the right setting in the mansion with a message.

German think tank says retirement age eventually will have to rise to 70

German think tank sees retirement age rising to 70

BERLIN – A German think tank is arguing that the country’s retirement age will eventually have to be lifted to 70.
The conservative economic think tank IW said Wednesday that low birth rates and growing life expectancy leave no way around increasing the retirement age again.
The government decided …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sushma calls for parliament resolution on Bhopal

NEW DELHI – Pressing for higher compensation for the victims of the Bhopal gas disaster, Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj Wednesday suggested that parliament pass a unanimous resolution to scrap the 1989 “out of the court settlement” between the Indian government and Union Carbide.

“The house, cutting across party lines, should pass a resolution to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sushma calls for parliament resolution on Bhopal.

Sri Lankan government-appointed commission to probe civil war begins public hearings

Sri Lanka war commission begins public hearings

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – A commission appointed by Sri Lanka’s government to look into the country’s civil war began public hearings Wednesday amid international skepticism about its credibility and mandate to probe and punish war crimes.
The hearings began a day after a group of 57 U.S. lawmakers wrote to … Read more >>.

I’m from the middle class: Cameron

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has classified himself and his wife, Samantha, as part of the middle class, “which tries to get all the services meant for the poorer classes”.

Cameron, 43, said public services aimed at helping poor families and parents in disadvantaged areas were often utilised by the middle classes, adding that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Runoff for Georgia Republican governor nominee too close to call, re-count likely

GOP runoff for Ga. governor too close to call
ATLANTA – Georgia’s bruising Republican primary runoff for governor had no winner Wednesday as some 2,500 votes separated the two candidates, leaving the race too close to call and a re-count likely.
In unofficial returns, Nathan Deal and Karen Handel each claimed 50 percent of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Runoff for Georgia Republican governor nominee too close to call, re-count likely.

Tea party favorite Dan Maes upsets former US Rep. Scott McInnis in Colorado GOP gov. primary

Tea party favorite Maes wins Colo. gov. primary

DENVER – Businessman Dan Maes rode support from tea party groups to claim Colorado’s Republican gubernatorial primary, defeating former U.S. Rep. Scott McInnis.
McInnis, who served six terms in Congress, failed to recover after it was revealed that he plagiarized parts of a water study for which he was …. Read the original article  : here.

Rajya Sabha adjourned twice

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned twice Wednesday, the first time on the Maharashtra-Karnataka border row and the second time over a calling attention motion on the killing of Indian fishermen in attacks by the Sri Lankan Navy.

As the house met for question hour, Shiv Sena members led by Manohar Joshi appealed to …. Original article  : Rajya Sabha adjourned twice.

No evidence of Maoists getting foreign support: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – The government does not have any evidence of the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) getting monetary or other support from any international agency or military organisation, Home Minister P. Chidambaram told the Rajya Sabha Wednesday.
“There is no evidence that the CPI-Maoist gets any work support internationally or from … Read more : No evidence of Maoists getting foreign support: Chidambaram.

Kashmir issue: Mehbooba Mufti welcomes PM’s initiative, demands accountability

SRINAGAR – People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Mehbooba Mufti has welcomed the fresh initiative unveiled by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Tuesday to address the unrest in Kashmir and hopes it will be a critical step forward in facilitating peace in the Kashmir Valley.

“The Prime Minister’s statement has come after two months, … Read : Kashmir issue: Mehbooba Mufti welcomes PM’s initiative, demands accountability.

Ex-Sen. Mark Dayton, conservative state Rep. Tom Emmer will vie to replace Minn. Gov. Pawlenty

Democrat Dayton, GOP Emmer to vie for Minn. gov.

MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota voters will have a sharp contrast when they choose a replacement for Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty in November.
Mark Dayton won the Democratic nomination Tuesday in a bid to rebuild a political career scarred by a frustrating six years in the U.S. Senate. He ran … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ex-Sen. Mark Dayton, conservative state Rep. Tom Emmer will vie to replace Minn. Gov. Pawlenty.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Belgaum dispute

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Wednesday following the Shiv Sena’s demand for an immediate discussion on the Belgaum dispute between Maharashtra and Karnataka.

As the house met for question hour, Shiv Sena members led by Manohar Joshi appealed to Chairman Hamid Ansari that a discussion be held on the issue.
The chair, however, … Read more »».

Cameron declines to meet secret admirer

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron found himself in a bit of a spot Monday when a female fan said her friend had “a crush” on him.

The incident took place when the 43-year-old Cameron was meeting people in Manchester.
Daily Express Tuesday reported that a woman called Ellie asked Cameron to “say hello …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cameron declines to meet secret admirer.

Report: Philippine Muslim rebels continue combat training, seek arms despite planned talks

Report: Philippine Muslim rebels brace for war

MANILA, Philippines – Hundreds of Muslim guerrillas have undergone combat training and sought more weapons in the southern Philippines to bolster their military muscle in case planned peace talks with the government falter, a military report said Wednesday.
New President Benigno Aquino III and the 11,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front … Original article on : Report: Philippine Muslim rebels continue combat training, seek arms despite planned talks.

Linda McMahon Wins Connecticut GOP Primary

SHELTON (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems that the GOP are trying to bank on some new faces in the world of politics this fall. On Tuesday night, following Rick Snyder of Michigan, Linda McMahon of Connecticut won the Republican Senate nomination. Linda McMahon, the former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment won the Republican primary by leaving …. Original source  : Linda McMahon Wins Connecticut GOP Primary.

Mark Dayton wins Democratic primary for Minnesota governor 3 years after quitting US Senate

Dayton wins Democratic primary for Minn. governor

MINNEAPOLIS – Mark Dayton has won the Democratic nomination for Minnesota governor in a bid to rebuild a political career scarred by a frustrating six years in the U.S. Senate.
Dayton beat the Minnesota House speaker and a former Democratic legislator in Tuesday’s primary. He’ll face Republican state Rep. Tom [..] Read the original article: here.

Conservative prosecutor Ken Buck defeats Jane Norton for Colorado GOP Senate nomination

Buck wins Colorado GOP Senate nomination
DENVER – Tea party favorite Ken Buck has defeated former Lt. Gov. Jane Norton to clinch Colorado’s Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate.
The vote Tuesday was seen as another blow to politicians with close connections to Washington. Norton was endorsed by GOP leadership and co-chaired John McCain’s presidential …. Read the original article  : here.

After bruising campaign, Republican runoff for Georgia governor is too close to call

GOP runoff for Ga. governor is too close to call
ATLANTA – The bitter, Republican runoff for Georgia governor between former U.S. Rep. Nathan Deal and ex-Secretary of State Karen Handel is too close to call.
In unofficial returns Tuesday night, the candidates each claimed 50 percent of the vote with 99 percent of precincts …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : After bruising campaign, Republican runoff for Georgia governor is too close to call.

Venezuela, Colombia agree to resume relations

BOGOTA – Colombia and Venezuela restored diplomatic relations Tuesday, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos announced after meeting with his Venezuelan counterpart Hugo Chavez.

The leaders symbolically met in the Colombian Caribbean town of Santa Marta, at the residence where Simon Bolivar, the hero of both countries’ independence, died Dec 17, 1830.
Upon his arrival in Santa …. Source article  : Venezuela, Colombia agree to resume relations.

Greenwich businessman Foley defeats 2 GOP challengers in primary for Conn. governor

Foley wins Republican primary for Conn. governor

HARTFORD, Conn. – Greenwich businessman Tom Foley has won the Republican nomination for Connecticut governor and will face former Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy in November.
Foley bested two challengers in Tuesday’s primary, defeating Lt. Gov. Michael Fedele (feh-DEHL’-ee) and Hartford-area business advocate Oz Griebel (GREEB’-il) in a race that grew …. Source  : Greenwich businessman Foley defeats 2 GOP challengers in primary for Conn. governor.

Colombia, Venezuela agree to restore ties ruptured in dispute over leftist rebels

Colombia, Venezuela restore diplomatic ties

SANTA MARTA, Colombia – The presidents of Colombia and Venezuela agreed Tuesday to restore diplomatic relations severed nearly three weeks ago by Caracas, smoothing over a dispute over allegations Colombian rebels have camps in Venezuela.
The rapprochement came during a four-hour meeting between Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and Colombia’s new leader, Juan …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Colombia, Venezuela agree to restore ties ruptured in dispute over leftist rebels.

Pak says Cameron’s ‘terror sponsorship’ remarks hampering flood aid efforts

LONDON – Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Abdullah Hussein Haroon, has said that British Prime Minister David Cameron’s accusation of Islamabad promoting terrorism has hampered aid efforts for the flood-stricken country.

“Pakistan has suffered because of what David Cameron has said, because the British people will listen to their Prime Minister,” The Daily Mail [..] Read the original article: here.

Rostenkowski was one of Washington’s most powerful lawmakers _ and a symbol of its excesses

Rostenkowski became symbol of power and excesses

CHICAGO – Those who knew the late Dan Rostenkowski are recalling a meat-and potatoes Illinois politician from an era when leaders crossed party lines to cut deals and seek consensus.
Rostenkowski died Wednesday of lung cancer at age 82.
He quietly wielded enormous power on Capitol Hill for more than 30 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rostenkowski was one of Washington’s most powerful lawmakers _ and a symbol of its excesses.

Now ‘Kumarakom musings’ for president

KUMARAKOM – The picturesque Kumarakom tourist destination on the banks of the sea-sized Vembanad Lake is all decked up to receive President Pratibha Patil and her family members Thursday afternoon.

The president will be here for the next three days with her husband, daughter and other family members.
She will attend two programmes in Kerala capital …. Original source  : Now ‘Kumarakom musings’ for president.

When and how of caste census not decided: Pranab

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee Thursday said the cabinet would soon take a decision on when and how to conduct the caste-based census, after opposition members created an uproar in the Lok Sabha over the issue.
“How and when this should be done is under consideration. The decision on the mechanism will … Read this article on Gaea Times at : When and how of caste census not decided: Pranab.

New refugee students in NYC get ready for school in the US, from academics to fire drills

New refugee students in NY get ready for US school

NEW YORK – A New York City summer program aimed at refugee children who’ve recently arrived in the United States is teaching more than reading and writing.
The Refugee Summer Youth Academy tries to help its students learn how to go to school along with what they … Original source on Gaea Times at : New refugee students in NYC get ready for school in the US, from academics to fire drills.

Uproar in Lok Sabha over caste-based census

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was Thursday adjourned till noon after opposition members created an uproar over caste enumeration expected to be done at the biometric phase of Census 2011, saying it was a time-buying tactic.
Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Mulayam Singh Yadav and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad raised the …. Read the original article  : here.

Palestinians, crammed for decades in refugee camps in Lebanon, may get broader right to work

Lebanon debates giving Palestinians rights

EIN EL-HILWEH REFUGEE CAMP, Lebanon – Mohammed al-Amin spends his days doing little more than playing billiards and smoking cigarettes in this sprawling Palestinian refugee camp, where gunmen roam narrow alleyways dotted with tin-roofed, cement-block homes.
The 25-year-old studied dental lab technology but works at a small, grubby coffee shop in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Palestinians, crammed for decades in refugee camps in Lebanon, may get broader right to work.

Lok Sabha adjourned over caste-based census

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was Thursday adjourned till noon over protests against the government’s approval to caste enumeration in the census only at the biometric stage.
Samajwadi Party member Mulayam Singh Yadav and Lalu Prasad of the Rashtriya Janata Dal refused to let the Question Hour commence after the house assembled for … Original article on : Lok Sabha adjourned over caste-based census.

Indian American senator loses Minnesota seat

WASHINGTON – Satveer Chaudhary, an Indian American member of the Minnesota Senate, has lost his seat after serving the state for 14 years. He lost his primary election to challenger and former State House representative Barb Goodwin.

Just four years after his election to the House in 1996, Chaudhary became Minnesota’s first Asian-American and then …. Source  : Indian American senator loses Minnesota seat.

Legal fictions, bankruptcy and straw men among baffling beliefs of sovereign citizens

Baffling beliefs mark Sovereign Citizen theories

The Southern Poverty Law Center estimates the number of people who now consider themselves sovereign citizens, Americans above the law who adhere only to the Constitution and follow a revised history of the United States, grew to 300,000 during the past decade. Some of their beliefs:
-14th Amendment citizens: Belief that … Original article on : Legal fictions, bankruptcy and straw men among baffling beliefs of sovereign citizens.

Politician, TV host hit each other during show

Brasilia, Aug 12 (IANS/EFE) A senatorial candidate in Brazil and a television show host got into a fight and punched and kicked each other when the politician became irritated with the journalist’s questions.

Former Congressman Joao Correia, who is running for a Senate seat from Acre state on a Brazilian Democratic Movement Party ticket, was being …. Read the original article  : here.

New York’s top Democrats rally around embattled US Rep. Charles Rangel at fundraiser

Top Dems rally around Rep. Rangel at NY fundraiser
NEW YORK – New York’s Democratic political establishment came out in force for embattled U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel on Wednesday, packing a sold-out fundraiser to praise Rangel’s service to the city and state over a 40-year career recently tainted by ethics charges.
“I’ve been … Read more : New York’s top Democrats rally around embattled US Rep. Charles Rangel at fundraiser.

Nicaragua top court picks president’s supporters to replace boycotting opposition judges

Nicaraguan top court replaces opposition judges

MANAGUA, Nicaragua – Nicaraguan Supreme Court justices who support President Daniel Ortega picked seven lawyers from Ortega’s Sandinista party Wednesday to replace opposition judges who have been boycotting court sessions.
The main opposition party denounced the move as “unconstitutional and illegal” as Nicaragua lurched in another step of a bitter political … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nicaragua top court picks president’s supporters to replace boycotting opposition judges.

Judge who overturned California’s same-sex marriage ban to rule Thursday on stay

Judge to rule on stay Thursday in Prop. 8 case

SAN FRANCISCO – The federal judge who overturned California’s same-sex marriage ban says he is ready to rule on whether gay marriages should resume immediately in the state or await an appeals court’s input.
Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker said he would issue his decision Thursday …. Read the original article  : Judge who overturned California’s same-sex marriage ban to rule Thursday on stay.

Gay rights group sues to block ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ discharge of Idaho aviator

Idaho aviator sues to block ‘Don’t ask don’t tell’

BOISE, Idaho – A gay rights group wants a federal court in Idaho to block the U.S. Air Force from discharging an aviator under the “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy that bars openly gay and lesbian military members from service.
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network filed its lawsuit Wednesday … Original article on : Gay rights group sues to block ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ discharge of Idaho aviator.

Congressional candidate Ben Quayle, son of ex-VP, says Obama ‘worst president in history’ in ad

Ben Quayle’s new ad: Obama worst president ever
PHOENIX – The son of former Vice President Dan Quayle unveiled a TV campaign ad Wednesday in his bid for Congress in which he calls President Barack Obama “the worst president in history” and tells Arizona voters that he wants to “knock the hell” …. Read the original article  : Congressional candidate Ben Quayle, son of ex-VP, says Obama ‘worst president in history’ in ad.

Migrant ship that could be carrying Tamil Tigers nears Canada, will be intercepted

Tamil migrant ship nears Canada
TORONTO – Canadian authorities said Wednesday that they will intercept a ship of asylum seekers from Sri Lanka before it reaches the coast because the passengers may include people Canada considers terrorists.

The ship is reported to be within 200 miles (322 kilometers) of Canada’s Pacific coast province of British Columbia, said … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Migrant ship that could be carrying Tamil Tigers nears Canada, will be intercepted.

Congressional candidate Ben Quayle, son of former VP, calls Obama ‘worst president in history’

Ben Quayle: Obama worst president ever
PHOENIX – The son of former Vice President Dan Quayle unveiled a TV campaign ad Wednesday in his bid for Congress in which he calls President Barack Obama “the worst president in history” and tells Arizona voters that he wants to “knock the hell” out of … Read more : Congressional candidate Ben Quayle, son of former VP, calls Obama ‘worst president in history’.

Embattled Rep. Rangel, facing ethics charges, thanks hundreds for attending NY fundraiser

Embattled Rep. Rangel thanks crowd at fundraiser

NEW YORK – Democratic Congressman Charles Rangel has told a packed gathering at a fundraiser in New York City that he was deeply moved by the show of support.
Rangel spoke Wednesday to hundreds of attendees at the start of the gala at the Plaza Hotel. He was joined onstage …. Original source  : Embattled Rep. Rangel, facing ethics charges, thanks hundreds for attending NY fundraiser.

Mattis takes over Central Command, vows to work with Mideast allies in Afghanistan, Iraq

New CentCom chief vows to work with Mideast allies

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. – The general who will now oversee the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq is vowing “unrelenting engagement” with allies in the Mideast and Central Asia.
Marine Corps Gen. James Mattis has officially assumed control of U.S. Central Command. He succeeds Gen. David Petraeus … Read more »»».

Judge who overturned Calif gay marriage ban questions if Prop 8 backers can appeal his ruling

Judge doubts gay marriage ban’s backers can appeal

SAN FRANCISCO – The federal judge who overturned California’s same-sex marriage ban has more bad news for the measure’s sponsors: he not only is unwilling to keep gay couples from marrying beyond next Wednesday, he doubts the ban’s backers have the right to challenge his ruling.
Chief U.S. District …. Source article  : Judge who overturned Calif gay marriage ban questions if Prop 8 backers can appeal his ruling.

Liberal groups try to exploit backlash against Target for helping anti-gay marriage candidate

Liberal groups push to exploit Target backlash

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Protestors have been rallying outside Target Corp. or its stores almost daily since the retailer angered gay rights supporters and progressives by giving money to help a conservative Republican gubernatorial candidate in Minnesota. Liberal groups are pushing to make an example of the company, hoping … Original article on : Liberal groups try to exploit backlash against Target for helping anti-gay marriage candidate.

Jurors in Blagojevich corruption trial on 3-day break after saying they’re stalled

Blago jurors on break after saying they’re stalled
CHICAGO – Jurors deliberating the corruption case against former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich are taking the day off.
They won’t be meeting on Friday – or giving any public clues about what they’re thinking. On Thursday, jurors created a stir by telling the judge that they could …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jurors in Blagojevich corruption trial on 3-day break after saying they’re stalled.

President to address the nation on I-Day eve

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil will address the nation on Saturday, the eve of the 64th Independence Day, an official statement said Friday.

The address will be telecast live over all Doordarshan and All India Radio (AIR) channels in Hindi, followed by in English, from 7 p.m.
In addition, AIR will broadcast …. Source  : President to address the nation on I-Day eve.

Language barrier disrupts Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI – There was peace in the Lok Sabha Friday with no protests from opposition MPs, but a technical problem that hampered English translation led to a minor commotion and disruption of the house.
Speaker Meira Kumar adjourned the house for 15 minutes at 11.30 a.m. when some MPs from southern states … Read more »»».

Republicans make Pelosi their top target, but she keeps plugging and fundraising for Democrats

Pelosi stumps for Democrats as GOP fires away
WASHINGTON – The big political bull’s-eye on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s back isn’t keeping her from campaigning for Democratic candidates in several states, even if she avoids some of the most conservative regions.
Pelosi will attend fundraisers this month in Houston and Dallas, plus …. Source article  : Republicans make Pelosi their top target, but she keeps plugging and fundraising for Democrats.

Myanmar sets Nov 7 election date

YANGON – Myanmar’s election commission has set Nov 7 as the date for a much-awaited general election, national television announced Friday.

Military-ruled Myanmar, also called Burma, last held an election in 1990. It was won by a landslide by the opposition National League for Democracy (NLD), headed by pro-democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi.
The ruling … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Myanmar sets Nov 7 election date.

Myanmar’s first election in 2 decades to be held Nov. 7, military government says

Myanmar junta sets election date of Nov. 7

YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar’s ruling military junta announced Friday that the country’s first elections in two decades will be held Nov. 7, finally setting a date for polls that critics have dismissed as a sham designed to cement military rule.
Foreign governments have urged Myanmar to ensure the elections …. Read the original article  : here.

South Korea to pardon 2,500 convicts

SEOUL – South Korea’s president is to pardon 2,493 convicted criminals, among them the brother of his predecessor, and several thousand civil servants facing disciplinary action on the anniversary the country’s independence from Japan Sunday.

President Lee Myung Bak is to pardon the brother of late president Roh Moo Hyun, Roh Geon Pyeong, who was convicted … Read : South Korea to pardon 2,500 convicts.

Democrat Nick Rahall of West Virginia says he misused official stationery in son’s case

Democrat Nick Rahall misused official stationery

WASHINGTON – Rep. Nick Rahall (RAY’-hahl) says he improperly used congressional stationery to ask a judge for leniency for his son in a 2005 robbery case.
The West Virginia Democrat said in a statement that he should have used personal stationery when writing about his son Nick Joe Rahall.
The elder Rahall …. Read the original article  : here.

Kan. GOP congressional candidate apologizes for linking to racist blog attacking Dem. opponent

Kan. GOP candidate’s campaign links to racist blog

WICHITA, Kan. – A Republican Kansas congressional candidate has apologized after his campaign posted links on its Twitter feed and Facebook page to a racist blog posting attacking his Democratic opponent and President Barack Obama.
Mike Pompeo, who is running against Democrat Raj Goyle to represent Kansas’ 4th Congressional …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kan. GOP congressional candidate apologizes for linking to racist blog attacking Dem. opponent.

Nevada US Senate candidate Angle cancels appearance at Arizona tea party border event

NV Senate hopeful cancels AZ tea party appearance

LAS VEGAS – Republican U.S. Senate candidate Sharron Angle has canceled her scheduled appearance at a weekend tea party rally near the Mexican border in Arizona.
Angle spokesman Jarrod Agen says the logistics of getting Angle to the United We Stand for Americans border coalition event in Hereford, Ariz., … Read more »»».

Wyoming’s chief federal judge to retire next year after 17 years on bench

Wyo.’s chief federal judge to retire next year
CASPER, Wyo. – U.S. District Chief Judge William Downes plans to retire next July, ending 17 years on the bench in Wyoming and a career that includes decisions on the return of wolves to the region and freedom of speech issues.
Former President Bill Clinton nominated him … Read more >>>.

Mexican governor says drug violence has paralyzed some border areas, seeks federal help

Governor: Violence paralyzes Mexico border areas

MEXICO CITY – Some areas of Mexico along the U.S. border have been paralyzed economically by drug violence, and the governor of the border state of Tamaulipas said Thursday the federal government should send relief funds.
Violence has affected tourism, commerce and investment, Gov. Eugenio Hernandez said during an anti-crime strategy …. Original article  : Mexican governor says drug violence has paralyzed some border areas, seeks federal help.

DOD says only fourth of troops surveyed on gays in the military have responded

Only a fourth of troops surveyed on gays respond

WASHINGTON – The Defense Department says that only about a quarter of the troops sent a survey on gays in the military have responded.
Pentagon spokeswoman Cynthia Smith said Thursday that close to 103,000 service members have completed the survey, which asks questions like how they would react …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : DOD says only fourth of troops surveyed on gays in the military have responded.

Sen. Gillibrand, once applauded by NRA, backed for election in NY by Brady gun control group

NY’s Gillibrand hailed by Brady gun control group

ALBANY, N.Y. – New York Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (KEHR’-sten JIL’-uh-brand) has been endorsed for election by a leading gun control group two years after earning a top rating from the National Rifle Association.
The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence notes Gillibrand had been an NRA favorite when …. Source  : Sen. Gillibrand, once applauded by NRA, backed for election in NY by Brady gun control group.

Presidential Memorandum???Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Columbia

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE
                                        THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE

SUBJECT: Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
Pursuant to the authority vested in me by section 1012 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal … Read more »»».

Statement by the President on the Passage of the Southwest Border Security Bill

I have made securing our Southwest Border a top priority since I came to office. That is why my administration has dedicated unprecedented resources and personnel to combating the transnational criminal organizations that traffic in drugs, weapons, and money, and smuggle people across the border with Mexico. Today’s action by Congress answers my … Read more : Statement by the President on the Passage of the Southwest Border Security Bill.

WA Senate: GOP’s Rossi shores up conservative flank ahead of primary, Dem Murray pounces

WA Sen: Rossi moves right ahead of primary

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Even with his advancement to November’s general election all but assured, U.S. Senate candidate Dino Rossi has moved noticeably to the right in recent weeks – a shift that has Democrats in Washington state salivating as they try to bolster endangered incumbent Patty Murray.
Late last … Read more >>>.

Federal housing regulator proposes to curb fees charged by developers after home sales

Gov’t proposes to curb home developer fees

WASHINGTON – The government is proposing to stop developers in most instances from collecting fees on the sale of homes they no longer own.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency said Thursday it is zeroing in on the practice after meeting last month with a coalition of real estate agents, title … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Federal housing regulator proposes to curb fees charged by developers after home sales.

No scope for terror: Lalthanhawla

AIZAWL – Mizoram Chief Minister Lalthanhawla Sunday said there was no scope for terrorism in the state, adding that his government was determined to ensure that no one is allowed to take the law into their own hands.

“The Mizoram government has remained responsive to complaints, discontent and doubts of the people… no one would be … Read this article on Gaea Times at : No scope for terror: Lalthanhawla.

Shoe hurled at Omar, attacker is suspended cop (Third Lead)

SRINAGAR – A suspended Jammu and Kashmir head constable Sunday hurled a shoe at Omar Abdullah during the Independence Day function here but an unfazed chief minister remarked it was better to throw shoes than stones.

Abdullah, who was taking salute from contingents of marching security personnel at the Bakshi Stadium in the heart of Srinagar, [..] Read the original article: here.

AP-GfK Poll: Independents, distrustful over economy, sour on Democrats as elections approach

AP-GfK Poll: Independent voters sour on Democrats
WASHINGTON – Independents who embraced President Barack Obama’s call for change in 2008 are ready for a shift again, and that’s worrisome news for Democrats.
According to combined results of recent Associated Press-GfK polls, only 32 percent of those citing no allegiance to either major party say they … Read : AP-GfK Poll: Independents, distrustful over economy, sour on Democrats as elections approach.

South Korea president urges North to stop provocations, proposes path toward unification

SKorea: North must change, embrace reunification
SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea’s president urged North Korea to abandon military provocations and make a “courageous change” toward peace, using a speech Sunday marking the Korean peninsula’s liberation from Japanese rule to outline a path for its eventual reunification.
President Lee Myung-bak made the offer as relations …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : South Korea president urges North to stop provocations, proposes path toward unification.

Buddhadeb unfurls tricolour as West Bengal celebrates I-Day

KOLKATA – Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee unfurled the tricolour and took the salute as West Bengal joined the nation in celebrating the 64th Independence Day Sunday amid tight security.

Bhattacharjee also offered floral tributes at the Martyrs’ Column as the police band played the national anthem in a brief but colourful programme near the … Read more >>.

Achuthanandan highlights government’s achievements on I-Day

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan Sunday turned his Independence Day address into an occasion for highlighting his government’s performance in the past four years.

In his speech after taking the salute at a function here, the chief minister expressed deep concern that the peace of the country was being affected by subversive forces.
“Peace …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Achuthanandan highlights government’s achievements on I-Day.

Govt. will do everything possible to rehabilitate Leh-flood victims: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Expressing deep grief over the loss of lives in the recent mudslide triggered by a cloudburst in Leh, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh said the Central Government will do everything possible for the rehabilitation of the affected people.

“A few days back, many precious lives were lost in Laddakh due to …. Original article  : Govt. will do everything possible to rehabilitate Leh-flood victims: Manmohan Singh.

Israel to offer “extensive and tempting” withdrawal plan to Palestine

NEW YORK – In an attempt to spread peace, Israel is preparing an “extensive and tempting” withdrawal plan to give up 90 percent of the West Bank and evacuate 50,000 Jewish settlers, which would be offered by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during direct negotiations with Palestine.

“Palestinian sources who had been briefed on the latest …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Israel to offer “extensive and tempting” withdrawal plan to Palestine.

Development is top priority: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

BHOPAL – Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Sunday said development is the top priority of his government.

“Development is surely the top priority of the government. In fact, industrial development is in fast pace in the state. Increased investment amount is also coming in,” Chouhan said in his 20-minute Independence Day speech here at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rosaiah vows to continue YSR’s schemes

HYDERABAD – Amid tight security, Andhra Pradesh celebrated the 64th Independence Day with Chief Minister K. Rosaiah declaring that he would continue the welfare schemes launched by his predecessor Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy.

Enthusiasm and patriotic fervour marked the celebrations across the state. Rosaiah led the celebrations by unfurling the national flag at the main official function … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rosaiah vows to continue YSR’s schemes.

Modi lashes out at central government, PM in I-Day speech

RAJKOT – Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi Sunday used his Independence Day address to lash out at the central government, virtually holding it responsible for all the ills plaguing the country while praising his own government for the “splendid” work done in Gujarat during the last decade.
Modi cut across issues ranging from rising … Read : Modi lashes out at central government, PM in I-Day speech.

Nepal shares joy, sorrow with two nations

KATHMANDU – As India celebrated its 64th Independence Day Sunday with pride and pomp and Bangladesh mourned for the assassination of the architect of the nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, 35 years ago, the two nations’ South Asian neighbour Nepal shared the joy and sorrow of both.
Ignoring a transport strike called by an indigenous … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nepal shares joy, sorrow with two nations.

BSF gives Pakistan Rangers sweets at Punjab border

ATTARI BORDER – Celebrating the 63rd anniversary of India’s independence, the Border Security Force (BSF) Sunday presented sweets to its Pakistani counterparts at the Attari-Wagah joint check post between the two countries here.

BSF Inspector General (Punjab Frontier) Himmat Singh presented the packets of sweets to representatives of the Pakistan Rangers.
“We are all brothers … Read more »»».

Govt. taking all measures to control inflation: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh said the Central Government is taking all measures to control inflation, which is hovering around 10 percent for the last several months.

“I know that in the last few months high inflation has caused you difficulties. Today, I do not want to go into the …. Read the original article  : here.

Rahul, the Games volunteer? (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – When allegations of corruption in the Commonwealth Games started heating up parliament, Congress MPs conjured up a quick-fix solution – Rahul Gandhi. But the Gandhi family scion might steer clear.
Rahul, some party MPs said, should be put on the job to clean up the mess. It will brighten the … Original article on : Rahul, the Games volunteer? (Capital Buzz).

Red Fort, Independence Day and prime ministers

NEW DELHI – Manmohan Singh Sunday became the third Indian prime minister to hoist the National Flag seven or more times at the 17th century Red Fort on the country’s 64th Independence Day.
The tradition was started by the country’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who unfurled the Indian tri-colour at this [..] Read the original article: here.

Chandigarh, neighbouring states celebrate I-Day

CHANDIGARH – Hundreds of people and policemen Sunday took part in Independence Day celebrations in Punjab, Haryana and their joint capital Chandigarh amid enthusiasm and fervour as well as light showers.

The national flag was unfurled by Chandigarh administrator Shivraj Patil at the Parade Ground here. He took the guard of honour at an impressive parade. …. Original article  : Chandigarh, neighbouring states celebrate I-Day.

Jharkhand governor promises panchayat polls

RANCHI – Jharkhand Governor M.O.H Farook on Independence Day Sunday assured the people that panchayat polls, which have not been held for 30 years in areas that now form the state, would be conducted at the earliest. He also urged the Maoists to shun violence.

“We have given a time frame to officials to hold …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jharkhand governor promises panchayat polls.

National Archives tell India’s Independence story

NEW DELHI – On Jan 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress adopted the ‘Poorna Swaraj’ resolution at its Lahore session – a call that was deemed as the first step to India’s midnight rendezvous with freedom Aug 15, 1947. All this and more comes alive through typewritten sepia-toned documents at the National Archives of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : National Archives tell India’s Independence story.

CWG will be a success: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Sunday asked the countrymen to treat the 2010 Commonwealth Games as a national festival, and said the upcoming mega event to be held in the month of October will be a success.
“The Commonwealth Games will start in Delhi after about one and a … Read more »».

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.

Former German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier to donate kidney to his wife

Former German FM to donate kidney to his wife

BERLIN – Germany’s main opposition leader Frank-Walter Steinmeier says he will take a few weeks off politics so he can donate a kidney to his wife.
Steinmeier told reporters Monday he would take a few weeks off for the procedure and come back to politics in October, news … Read more >>>.

Prachanda claims ethnic support in PM poll

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s Maoist chief Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda entered the ring – where the fifth round of battle for the new prime minister’s post is being held Monday – with the hope that he will be supported by the ethnic parties from the Terai plains and win.

The 55-year-old former revolutionary, who failed to triumph …. Original article  : Prachanda claims ethnic support in PM poll.

First family staying in, keeping it low-key during Martha’s Vineyard vacation getaway

Low-key vacation for president on Vineyard
CHILMARK, Mass. – It says something when the most exciting moment of a presidential vacation is a trip to the bookstore.
Since arriving on Martha’s Vineyard last Thursday, President Barack Obama has been in hard-core “no drama” form. He and his family have eschewed the island’s ritzy restaurants and … Original article on : First family staying in, keeping it low-key during Martha’s Vineyard vacation getaway.

SPIN METER: Republicans hot, cold on defending Constitution _ depending on what’s at stake

SPIN METER: Republicans hot, cold on Constitution

WASHINGTON – Republican Rep. Paul Broun of Georgia won his seat in Congress campaigning as a strict defender of the Constitution. He carries a copy in his pocket and is particularly fond of invoking the Second Amendment right to bear arms.
But it turns out there are parts of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : SPIN METER: Republicans hot, cold on defending Constitution _ depending on what’s at stake.

Cabinet hikes MPs’ perks, salary raise unaltered

NEW DELHI – The union cabinet Monday decided to further increase allowances of MPs by Rs.10,000 per month, comprising a hike of Rs.5,000 each in their constituency and office expense allowances. However, the three-fold salary hike remains unaltered.
The panel met here under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to reconsider and bring … Read more : Cabinet hikes MPs’ perks, salary raise unaltered.

McCain uses $20M in campaign money, tough ads on rival to turnaround GOP primary race

McCain turns vulnerable label into front-runner

GILBERT, Ariz. – The cast of “Survivor” has nothing on Sen. John McCain.
Once labeled a vulnerable incumbent, the four-term Arizona Republican is the clear front-runner against challenger J.D. Hayworth after spending some $20 million and casting his GOP opponent as a late-night infomercial huckster in a series of devastating ads. …. Read the original article  : McCain uses $20M in campaign money, tough ads on rival to turnaround GOP primary race.

President greets nation on Raksha Bandhan

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Monday greeted the nation on the eve of Raksha Bandhan, a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

“On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens,” Patil said in her message.
This festival, she said, … Read more »».

Re-emergence of sidewalk porn in Iraq offers window into the country’s chaotic politics

Porn offers window into Iraq’s chaotic politics

BAGHDAD – The nude women on the DVD cover in a Baghdad street stall say it all: Change, whether you like it or not, is afoot in Iraq.
Hundreds of porn DVDs are stacked elbow-deep on a wooden table in Jassim Hanoun’s ramshackle stall on a downtown sidewalk. His other …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

The Dalai Lama: A monk on the move

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama is 75 but still a true globetrotter, so much so that he doesn’t really need to unpack.
He’s made 11 trips just in the last seven months – to places within India and outside to speak on peace, non-violence, Buddhism and even environmental concerns. And last … Read : The Dalai Lama: A monk on the move.

Ex-policeman in Philippine capital holds tourist bus hostage with 24 passengers; 7 safe

Ex-policeman in Philippines holds tourists hostage

MANILA, Philippines – A dismissed policeman armed with an automatic rifle seized a bus in the Philippine capital Monday with 24 passengers, most of them Hong Kong tourists, in a bid to demand his reinstatement, police said.
Seven hostages, including three children, were subsequently released unharmed. A senior Chinese diplomat who [..] Read the original article: here.

Cabinet hikes MPs’ perks

NEW DELHI – The union cabinet Monday further increased allowances of MPs by Rs.10,000 per month, comprising a hike of Rs.5,000 each in constituency and office expense allowances for parliamentarians. However, the three-fold salary hike raise remained unaltered.
The panel met here under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to reconsider and bring …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cabinet hikes MPs’ perks.

Stones in Kashmir can’t be met with bullets: Karat

SRINAGAR – Condemning the deaths of over 60 Kashmiri civilians in firing by security forces, Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat said here Monday that stone pelting protests cannot be met with bullets.

Addressing a media conference in the Jammu and Kashmir summer capital, Karat said a CPI-M delegation was in Srinagar to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stones in Kashmir can’t be met with bullets: Karat.

Cabinet to reconsider MPs’ salary hike bill

NEW DELHI – The union cabinet will meet here Monday to reconsider and bring amendments to the MPs’ salary hike bill it had cleared last week. It was severely opposed by parliamentarians who were demanding a 500 percent raise against the three-fold hike proposed by the government.

Sources told IANS that the panel is likely to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cabinet to reconsider MPs’ salary hike bill.

Nitish, Lalu, Paswan rakhis a hit in Bihar

PATNA – They have a tough electoral contest ahead, but Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his rivals Lalu Prasad and Ram Vilas Paswan are also jostling for supremacy in Bihar’s rakhi markets. A day ahead of the festival, rakhis named after the three were doing brisk business Monday with reports that Nitish Kumar had a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nitish, Lalu, Paswan rakhis a hit in Bihar.

Venezuela holds simulated vote to test electronic system ahead of legislative elections

Venezuela holds mock vote ahead of elections

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuela’s elections council has held a mock ballot to test the country’s electronic voting system ahead of legislative elections next month.
Authorities say they did not immediately detect any problems during the simulated vote Sunday using more than 4,000 touch-screen voting machines and biometric identification devices planned …. Source article  : Venezuela holds simulated vote to test electronic system ahead of legislative elections.

Israeli leader stakes out positions before peace talks, drawing swift Palestinian rejection

Israeli PM stakes out positions for peace talks
JERUSALEM – Israel’s prime minister demanded Sunday that any future Palestinian state be demilitarized and recognize Israel as the Jewish homeland, as he staked out his starting position for new Mideast peace talks.
Benjamin Netanyahu said reaching a deal will be difficult but possible. The …. Original source  : Israeli leader stakes out positions before peace talks, drawing swift Palestinian rejection.

Iraq acknowledges killer of British aid worker escaped from prison 11 months ago

Iraq acknowledges Briton’s killer escaped
BAGHDAD – Iraq’s deputy justice minister has acknowledged the convicted killer of British aid worker Margaret Hassan has escaped from prison.

The announcement is an embarrassment for authorities because it is being made 11 months after the escape and the victim’s family had already made the news public last month.
Hassan’s 2004 kidnapping … Read more : Iraq acknowledges killer of British aid worker escaped from prison 11 months ago.

Calif. Republicans hope diverse statewide ticket lifts all candidates’ prospects in November

Calif. GOP hopes statewide slate lifts others, too

SAN DIEGO – For the first time in memory, California Republicans have a diverse statewide slate of candidates to field this fall, a lineup their state party chairman calls “an inspirational ticket.” Coupled with national momentum for conservatives, the California GOP is hoping this might be their breakthrough … Original source on Gaea Times at : Calif. Republicans hope diverse statewide ticket lifts all candidates’ prospects in November.

Wyclef Jean not abandoning presidential bid; lawyers to appeal decision rejecting candidacy

Wyclef Jean: I’m not giving up my bid for prez yet

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Hip-hop singer Wyclef Jean said Sunday he is not abandoning his presidential bid just yet and will try to get the courts to overturn a decision disqualifying him from the race.
Speaking to The Associated Press by telephone from his home in Croix … Original article on : Wyclef Jean not abandoning presidential bid; lawyers to appeal decision rejecting candidacy.

Seek land acquisition act amendment instead of visits: Mayawati

LUCKNOW – A day after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited protesting farmers in Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh district, Chief Minister Mayawati Sunday asked politicians “interested in the welfare of farmers” to seek amendments of the land acquisition act rather then visiting trouble spots.

Without taking Gandhi’s name, Mayawati, in in a statement read out by state cabinet …. Read the original article  : here.

Iran says Middle East peace talks futile

TEHRAN – Iran Tuesday said that the forthcoming Middle East peace talks between Israel and Palestine would be futile.

“As long as the main root of the problem is not solved, no peace talks will have any tangible results and be futile,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast said in a press briefing in Tehran.
The upcoming … Read more >>>.

Next Nepal PM duel Sep 5

KATHMANDU – After failing to elect a new prime minister Monday despite five rounds of vote spread over a month, Nepal’s parliament will now hold an unprecedented sixth round of election Sep 5 amidst growing protests at home and concern among the world community.

It is likely to be the last chance for Maoist chief Pushpa … Original article on : Next Nepal PM duel Sep 5.

Haryana poll panel demands action against absentee officials

CHANDIGARH – The Haryana state election commission has directed the state government to initiate disciplinary action against officials who did not attend their duties during the publication of voters’ lists in Gurgaon district last week.

Chief Electoral Officer Sumita Misra Tuesday said that a surprise check was made Aug 21-22 to check if designated officers were …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Establishment vs. outsiders as voters in Ariz., Alaska head to primary polls

Establishment vs. outsiders in primaries
WASHINGTON – It’s the political establishment vs. the outsiders in Tuesday’s primaries. And the establishment has the better odds.
Republican Sens. John McCain and Lisa Murkowski were poised to win bitter primaries in Arizona and Alaska against tea-party-backed candidates.
In Florida, boatloads of cash may not be enough … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Establishment vs. outsiders as voters in Ariz., Alaska head to primary polls.

Afghanistan Foreign Minister to visit India today

NEW DELHI – Afghanistan Foreign Minister Zalmay Rassoul, who will arrive in India on a three-day visit on Tuesday, will call on Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and reportedly discuss ways to battle the common threat with Kabul openly charging Pakistan’s military-intelligence establishment of harbouring the Taliban and Al Qaeda.

The visiting dignitary is … Read more »».

Brazil comedians protest ban on imitating political hopefuls

Rio de Janeiro, Aug 24 (IANS/EFE) Dozens of Brazilian comedians protested here against a ruling preventing people from imitating or satirising politicians running for office in October’s general elections.

Under regulations in force since 1997, it is not permitted to “use tricks, editing and other audio or video resources that, in some way, humiliate or ridicule …. Source  : Brazil comedians protest ban on imitating political hopefuls.

Blagojevich appears on Jon Stewart’s “The Daily Show,” won’t say if he will testify

Blagojevich appears on Jon Stewart’s show
NEW YORK – Despite goading from “The Daily Show” host Jon Stewart, former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich declined Monday night to promise to testify if he is retried on corruption charges.
Blagojevich appeared on Stewart’s TV show on Comedy Central as part of a new media blitz … Read : Blagojevich appears on Jon Stewart’s “The Daily Show,” won’t say if he will testify.

Yet another Indian American joins USAID

WASHINGTON – Sohini Chatterjee, an Indian American lawyer involved in development work worldwide, has been appointed as Senior Advisor in the Office of Donor Engagement in the US Agency for International Development’s newly created Policy Planning Bureau.

Chatterjee will work closely with USAID administrator, Dr Rajiv Shah, the highest ranking Indian American in the Obama administration, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Yet another Indian American joins USAID.

Australia set for turbulent times after tied vote

SYDNEY – Chances of a fresh parliamentary election being needed to break the political paralysis in Australia rose Tuesday after vote counting showed a tie and independents likely to hold the balance of power dithered over their pick.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s Labor and Tony Abbott’s Conservatives need 76 seats to have an outright majority in … Original article on : Australia set for turbulent times after tied vote.

US tells Pakistan to have constructive ties with India

WASHINGTON – The United States has asked Pakistan to have a constructive relationship with India and Afghanistan, saying effective and coordinated action across the region was needed to meet the common threat of terrorism.

“These are individual judgments made country by country,” State Department spokesman P J Crowley told reporters Monday when asked whether the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US tells Pakistan to have constructive ties with India.

Tharoor’s honeymoon trip starts with technical snag

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Shashi Tharoor and wife Sunanda Pushkar didn’t have a very pleasant start to their honeymoon that takes them to Dubai and Spain. While their flight took off from here at 5 a.m. Tuesday, it returned within half an hour due to a technical snag.

The Emirates Airline flight to Dubai was scheduled for 4.35 … Read more >>>.

Philippines in shock as 9 die after fired cop, demanding job back, hijacks Hong Kong tour bus

Mayhem in Manila: 9 killed on hijacked tourist bus

MANILA, Philippines – It looked like a hostage rescue in slow motion: Police creeping up on the bus with sledgehammers and smashing first one window, then another, then trying and failing to rip open the door.
When they finally got inside, authorities said, they found eight bodies: seven …. Original article  : Philippines in shock as 9 die after fired cop, demanding job back, hijacks Hong Kong tour bus.

AP source: Jimmy Carter going to NKorea to free American imprisoned there

AP source: Carter going to NKorea to free American

WASHINGTON – A senior U.S. official says former President Jimmy Carter plans to travel to North Korea to bring back an American citizen now detained in the communist nation.
The official said late Monday that Carter is expected to depart on Tuesday on a “purely humanitarian mission” to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : AP source: Jimmy Carter going to NKorea to free American imprisoned there.

It’s official: Levi Johnston files papers to run for office of hometown Wasilla, Alaska

Palin paramour files paperwork to run for office
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Levi Johnston, the father of former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin’s grandson, has filed papers to run for office in his hometown of Wasilla, Alaska, next year.
Johnston filed his letter of intent Friday with the Alaska Public Offices Commission, a first step needed to …. Read the original article  : It’s official: Levi Johnston files papers to run for office of hometown Wasilla, Alaska.

Federal housing secretary, state officials explore remedies for western ND housing shortage

HUD secretary checks western ND housing shortage

BISMARCK, N.D. – The secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development got a firsthand look Monday at northwestern North Dakota’s housing shortage, caused by the region’s booming oil industry.
Shaun Donovan listened to concerns from local officials during a hearing at Williston’s public library, near a municipal … Read more >>>.

Independent lawmakers meet to decide support in neck-and-neck Australian elections

Independent lawmakers hold key to Aust. government

CANBERRA, Australia – Three independent lawmakers who could hold the key to a new Australian government were aligning their positions Tuesday as the continuing vote count from weekend elections yielded no clear winner, leaving the government in limbo.
The Australian Electoral Commission said the ruling Labor Party had won 72 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NY appeals court refuses review of order forcing Fed to reveal firms that got Fed loans

Appeals court declines 2nd look at Fed data ruling

NEW YORK – A federal appeals court in New York has declined to hold a rare full-court rehearing of a panel’s decision to force the Federal Reserve to reveal documents showing financial companies that got Fed loans during the financial crisis.
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals …. Source article  : NY appeals court refuses review of order forcing Fed to reveal firms that got Fed loans.

It’s official: Levi Johnston files papers to run for office in hometown of Wasilla, Alaska

Johnston files letter of intent to run for office
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Levi Johnston, the father of former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin’s grandson, has filed papers to run for office in his hometown of Wasilla, Alaska, next year.
Johnston filed his letter of intent Friday with the Alaska Public Offices Commission, a first … Read more »»».

Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad Not Afraid of USA or Israel

TEHRAN (GaeaTimes.com) — It seems that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has suddenly become outspoken against United States and Israel’s threat to attack Iran. He has told that Israel is too weak to attack the Islamic Republic. Moreover he has promised to help any country in the region which is threatened.
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has told that … Read more >>>.

Federal judge in Roger Clemens case issues gag order

Judge in Clemens case issues gag order
WASHINGTON – A judge assigned to Roger Clemens’ perjury case has issued a gag order designed to prohibit public comments that could affect the jury pool for a possible trial.

Clemens was indicted by a federal grand jury Thursday for allegedly lying to Congress. The six-count indictment also accuses the … Read more : Federal judge in Roger Clemens case issues gag order.

Congress whip to Lok Sabha MPs on n-liability bill

NEW DELHI – The Congress has issued a whip to its members in the Lok Sabha asking them to be present in the house when the nuclear liability bill will be taken up for discussion Wednesday afternoon.

“A whip has been issued to members to be present in the house,” Congress chief whip in the Lok … Read : Congress whip to Lok Sabha MPs on n-liability bill.

Ethan Berkowitz, former lawmaker, wins Democratic nomination for governor of Alaska

Berkowitz wins AK’s Dem nomination for governor
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Former state lawmaker Ethan Berkowitz has won the Democratic nomination for Alaska’s governor.
Berkowitz held off a challenge Tuesday from state Sen. Hollis French in a race that he largely spent focused on the Republican winner, Gov. Sean Parnell.
Parnell easily won his party’s nomination.
Berkowitz, a … Read more >>>.

Krishna to go to Egypt, six pacts on cards

NEW DELHI – India and Egypt are poised to upgrade their dialogue and sign six pacts in areas ranging from energy and technology to maritime transport and agriculture when External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna goes to Cairo next month.

Krishna will hold wide-ranging talks with his Egyptian counterpart Ahmed Abul Gheit, a meeting that seeks to … Read more : Krishna to go to Egypt, six pacts on cards.

Pak facing worst ever natural disaster: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – With one-fifth part of the country inundated and nearly 20 million people affected, Pakistan is facing its worst natural calamity, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said.

During a meeting with visiting US Central Command commander General James Mattis here, Gilani said that the devastating floods have washed away standing crops and livestock … Read more >>>.

Arizona Republican Primary Won by John McCain

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — John McCain wins the Arizona Republican Primary. The Former Presidential Candidate has held the position with a little help from Sarah Palin. It is his fifth term as a senator. McCain also stood against Barack Obama in 2008. This time he replaced JD Hayworth, a former congressman and Radio talkshow host, …. Read the original article  : here.

Chidambaram speaks of ’saffron terror’, BJP hits out

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday said a new phenomenon of “saffron terrorism” was behind several bomb blasts, prompting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to accuse the government of trying to divert attention from its failures.
Chidambaram, while inaugurating a conference of chiefs of police forces of the country, said: “There …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chidambaram speaks of ’saffron terror’, BJP hits out.

Spain says 2 Spanish police killed in clash with Afghan forces

2 Spanish police killed in Afghanistan
MADRID – Spain’s interior minister says an Afghan policeman taking part in a training course has opened fire on his instructors, killing two Spanish police officers and their interpreter.

Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba says the incident occurred Wednesday near a Spanish military base in western Badghis province.
He said Spanish police returned fire … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Spain says 2 Spanish police killed in clash with Afghan forces.

Jimmy Carter flies to North Korea to free American

SEOUL – Former US president Jimmy Carter is travelling to North Korea to secure the release of a US citizen imprisoned in the Stalinist state, a South Korean media report said Wednesday.
Carter left the US on a civilian aircraft, KBS radio reported, quoting diplomats in Washington. The 85-year-old former president is accompanied … Read more »»».

Rick Scott Wins Florida GOP Primary

TALLAHASSEE (GaeaTimes.com)- There is no doubt about the fact that the Republican this fall want to see some new faces of the party against the Democrats for the Governor’s seat. After Rick Snyder from Michigan, the Republicans on Tuesday went on to extend their support for yet another newcomer, Rick Scott, a health care …. Read the original article  : Rick Scott Wins Florida GOP Primary.

Iran says it successfully test-fires new generation of the short-range Fateh-110 missile

Iran says it test-fires new missile
TEHRAN, Iran – Iran says it has successfully test-fired a new generation of a short-range surface-to-surface missile.

Iranian state television says the third generation Fateh-110 missile was successfully tested Wednesday.
State TV broadcast footage of the missile being fired and then hitting a target on the ground.
The solid-fuel Fateh can strike targets …. Source article  : Iran says it successfully test-fires new generation of the short-range Fateh-110 missile.

David Cameron’s wife gives birth to their fourth child

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has become a father of a girl, his fourth child, with wife Samantha.

The baby daughter arrived nearly three weeks earlier than the scheduled time on couple’s holiday in Cornwall.

Cameron said that the birth had been “nerve-racking” and a “bit of a shock”.

Samantha was driven to a hospital in … Original article on : David Cameron’s wife gives birth to their fourth child.

Rick Scotts Victory Sends Shockwaves throughout Florida

FLORIDA (GaeaTimes.com) – Rick Scott bagged a surprise victory in the Republican primary as Florida governor on late Tuesday defeating Attorney General Bill McCollum.

A political newcomer and a wealthy health care businessman Rick Scott’s victory over McCollum was over a narrow margin. At around 11.30pm Scott managed to collect 592,346 or 46.4 percent of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rick Scotts Victory Sends Shockwaves throughout Florida.

National Archives to house Hitler’s anti-Jewish Nazi papers brought to US by Gen. Patton

National Archives to house infamous Nazi papers

SAN MARINO, Calif. – During the final days of World War II, as American soldiers were returning from Germany with swastika-inscribed helmets, flags and other Nazi memorabilia, Gen. George Patton was packing up his own set of souvenirs.
The legendary field commander took four pages of documents signed by Adolf [..] Read the original article: here.

Lebanese army troops deploy in central Beirut after clashes between Hezbollah, Sunni group

Lebanese army deploys in Beirut after clashes

BEIRUT – Lebanese soldiers patrolled a Beirut neighborhood and residents stepped over spent bullet casings and broken glass after a night of deadly street battles between the Shiite Hezbollah group and a small Sunni faction killed at least four people.
Both sides said the fighting – the worst Beirut has … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lebanese army troops deploy in central Beirut after clashes between Hezbollah, Sunni group.

Son of former VP Dan Quayle wins Republican congressional primary in Arizona

Dan Quayle’s son wins congressional primary
PHOENIX – The son of former Vice President Dan Quayle won the Republican primary for an Arizona congressional seat after a provocative campaign that had no shortage of drama.
Ben Quayle emerged from a crowded field Tuesday in the fight for an open seat in a Republican-leaning district … Original article on : Son of former VP Dan Quayle wins Republican congressional primary in Arizona.

California governor considers bill that could make it easier for farmworkers to form unions

Bill in Calif. would help farmworkers form unions

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California lawmakers have given Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger a bill that would make it easier for farmworkers to form unions.
State officials have estimated 450,000 people work on California farms during the high season, but fewer than 16,000 full-time farmworkers belong to unions.
Unions say more workers would … Read more >>>.

No. 2 White House spokesman offers aw-shucks demeanor in contrast to combative Gibbs

Vacationing Obama gets temp press secretary
VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass. – With a broad grin and aw-shucks approach, Bill Burton is a marked contrast with his boss, the always ready-for-battle White House press secretary Robert Gibbs.
While Gibbs comes off as combative and hot, Burton is low-key and self-deprecating. He always seems ready to smile.
Describing how … Read : No. 2 White House spokesman offers aw-shucks demeanor in contrast to combative Gibbs.

Gov Sean Parnell wins Republican gubernatorial primary in Alaska

Parnell wins GOP gubernatorial primary in Alaska
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell, who inherited the job from Sarah Palin and was credited with restoring calm after her tumultuous tenure, has won the GOP gubernatorial primary.
In winning Tuesday, Parnell had to fend off criticism that he’s not bold enough to lead the state.
Parnell … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gov Sean Parnell wins Republican gubernatorial primary in Alaska.

Small-town Alaska mayor Scott McAdams wins Democratic nomination for US Senate

McAdams wins Dem nomination for AK Senate
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Small-town Alaska mayor Scott McAdams has won the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate.

McAdams, mayor of Sitka, entered the race late, on June 1, after Democrats struggled to find a candidate they considered viable against the well-known incumbent, Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski, who was in a tight … Original source on Gaea Times at : Small-town Alaska mayor Scott McAdams wins Democratic nomination for US Senate.

Greenpeace activists held for protesting n-bill near parliament

NEW DELHI – Six activists of global environmental group Greenpeace were detained Wednesday for protesting the proposed civil nuclear liability bill near Parliament House.

The activists, including three women, were wearing black T-shirts and carrying yellow barrels emblazoned with the danger sign.
They stood in protest at Vijay Chowk, a short distance away from Parliament … Read more : Greenpeace activists held for protesting n-bill near parliament.

Japanese leader attacks ‘River Kwai’ Britons, simple-minded Americans

LONDON -A former secretary-general of Japan’s ruling Democratic Party, who is tipped to be a future prime minister, has described the British as not being very likeable, and dismissed Americans as too simple minded.

Ichiro Ozawa, 68, said: “I don’t like … Read : Japanese leader attacks ‘River Kwai’ Britons, simple-minded Americans.

Alaska’s US senator feels wrath of anti-incumbent rage, Sarah Palin in tight race

Palin a central figure in tight Alaska Senate race
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Sarah Palin has emerged as a key figure in an Alaskan Senate primary race so close that it will now be decided by absentee ballots.
Heavily favored Sen. Lisa Murkowski watched the surprising returns showing a tight race Tuesday night, becoming painfully aware … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Alaska’s US senator feels wrath of anti-incumbent rage, Sarah Palin in tight race.

PM asks police chiefs’ annual meet to reinvent itself

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday said the annual conference of police chiefs must “reinvent” itself, setting some “quantifiable goals every year” and reviewing achievements the following year.
“This conference has been a time-tested mechanism for enhanced coordination but given the changing circumstances, the time perhaps has come for it to reinvent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : PM asks police chiefs’ annual meet to reinvent itself.

Kashmiris want ‘azadi’, not jobs, says BJP

NEW DELHI – Kashmiris are demanding secession from India and not jobs or economic development, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said Thursday and slammed the government for its failure to handle the unrest in the Kashmir Valley that has seen 64 people killed since June 11.
During a debate in the Lok Sabha …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kashmiris want ‘azadi’, not jobs, says BJP.

BJP faces flak for reinstating tainted leader

RAIPUR – Opposition Congress Thursday slammed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for reinstating Pradeep Gandhi, a former MP who was expelled from parliament after being caught on camera accepting bribe.

Gandhi, a close aide of Chief Minister Raman Singh and former Lok Sabha member from Rajnandgaon seat, was appointed as a special invitee in BJP’s …. Source  : BJP faces flak for reinstating tainted leader.

India’s leader says security forces need to change strategy in Kashmir to avoid violence

India’s PM tells police to change Kashmir strategy
NEW DELHI – Security forces in Kashmir need to find non-lethal means of controlling violent mobs to prevent more deaths in the unrest roiling the Indian-ruled region, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Thursday in rare remarks directly questioning government tactics.
Violence related to near-daily protests against Indian … Read more : India’s leader says security forces need to change strategy in Kashmir to avoid violence.

With ex-President Carter in North Korea, Kim Jong Il slips over to China, teachers there say

NKorea’s Kim visits Chinese school, teachers say

BEIJING – North Korea’s reclusive leader Kim Jong Il was in China Thursday on his second visit this year to his country’s biggest source of diplomatic and financial support, according to teachers at a school he visited.
The visit, which has not been announced by either country, is highly unusual, …. Original article  : With ex-President Carter in North Korea, Kim Jong Il slips over to China, teachers there say.

Government dispels fears of n-weapons in Myanmar

NEW DELHI – There is no nuclear threat from Myanmar, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said Thursday, adding that strict vigil was being maintained and admitting that nuclear weapons in neighbouring countries were a matter of concern.

“Myanamar asserts that it has no nuclear programme on its anvil. The government of India will have to believe,” …. Source article  : Government dispels fears of n-weapons in Myanmar.

South African police ordered not to join strike that has hit hospitals, schools nationwide

South African police ordered not to join strike

JOHANNESBURG – South African police say officers who join the nationwide public service strike for higher pay could be fired.
The strike, in its eighth day Thursday, has so far hit hospitals and schools hardest.
South Africa has one of the world’s highest rates of violent crime, with some 50 … Read more »».

Rahul Gandhi in Orissa to address tribal rally

BHUBANESWAR – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi arrived in Orissa Thursday to address a rally of tribals in Kalahandi district where a mining project proposed by the Vedanta group was rejected by the environment ministry.

Gandhi arrived at Therubali air strip in Rayagada district at about 12.20 p.m., police said.
He proceeded to Lanjigarh in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rahul Gandhi in Orissa to address tribal rally.

Teachers in northeast China say NKorea’s Kim Jong Il is on 2nd trip to China this year

Teachers in northeast China say Kim has visited

BEIJING – Two teachers in the northeastern China say North Korean leader Kim Jong Il visited their school in his second trip this year to his country’s biggest source of diplomatic and financial support.
The teachers at the Yuwen Middle School in Jilin province said Kim visited the school …. Source article  : Teachers in northeast China say NKorea’s Kim Jong Il is on 2nd trip to China this year.

Perry talks often about Texas Rangers’ border security work, just don’t ask him for specifics

State obscures elite Texas Rangers’ border work

McALLEN, Texas – Gov. Rick Perry tells just about anyone who’ll listen about his plan to dispatch elite teams of Texas Rangers to the border to keep Texans safe from encroaching Mexican drug violence.
Just don’t ask him for specifics.
The Ranger Recon initiative serves as a strong rhetorical counterpoint when … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Perry talks often about Texas Rangers’ border security work, just don’t ask him for specifics.

Naxals ‘our own people’, ready to hold dialogue, says Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Terming Naxalism as the biggest challenge which the country faces today, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said that it was necessary to train officers and men of forces engaged in fighting the challenge.
Addressing the second-day session of the 45th conference of Director Generals Of Police and other senior security …. Original article  : Naxals ‘our own people’, ready to hold dialogue, says Manmohan Singh.

US watching passage of n-bill: Roemer

NEW DELHI – The US was watching the passage of the civil nuclear liability bill and was hoping it “will turn out well”, US ambassador Timothy J. Roemer said Thursday, a day after the bill was passed by the Lok Sabha.
“We are watching as it passes, we hope it will turn out … Read more : US watching passage of n-bill: Roemer.

Beck plans rally at Lincoln Memorial on anniversary of King’s famed ‘I Have a Dream’ speech

Beck rally on anniversary of King’s ‘Dream’ speech
WASHINGTON – Glenn Beck’s rally on the anniversary and at the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech is drawing criticism, protests and questions about his intentions.
Beck insists the event Saturday at the Lincoln Memorial is not about politics, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Beck plans rally at Lincoln Memorial on anniversary of King’s famed ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.

A Cornish moniker for David Cameron’s newborn daughter

LONDON – UK Prime Minister David Cameron and wife Samantha Cameron have named their newborn baby daughter Florence Rose Endellion.

With the name, the PM kept his promise to pick a Cornish moniker for his daughter, born by caesarean at Truro’s Royal Cornwall Hospital, reports the Sun.

‘Endellion’ is taken from ‘St Endellion’, the tiny … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : A Cornish moniker for David Cameron’s newborn daughter.

Militants kill 8 policeman in volatile northern Afghan province of Kunduz, police say

Militants kill 8 policeman in northern Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Insurgents killed eight Afghan policemen in a raid Thursday on a checkpoint outside the northern city of Kunduz, the provincial police chief said.
Abdul Raziq Yaqoubi said police suspected the raid was carried out by militants from Russia’s restive Chechnya region who are active in the surrounding … Original source on Gaea Times at : Militants kill 8 policeman in volatile northern Afghan province of Kunduz, police say.

Camerons name baby after village

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha have named their new daughter Florence Rose Endellion, after a village close to which they were holidaying.

Camerons were holidaying near the village of St Endellion when Samantha felt the contractions and had to be rushed to the hospital.
The couple finally decided the name …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

While Carter visits North Korea, leader Kim Jong Il may have traveled to China, reports say

Reports: NKorean leader may be visiting China

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korean leader Kim Jong Il was making a secret trip to China on Thursday in what would be his second visit this year to his country’s biggest source of diplomatic and financial support, South Korean news reports said.
Kim’s special armored train crossed the border …. Read the original article  : While Carter visits North Korea, leader Kim Jong Il may have traveled to China, reports say.

Nobel peace prize winners call on Obama to visit Hiroshima

Nobelists call for Obama to visit Hiroshima
TOKYO – Five Nobel peace laureates are calling on President Barack Obama to visit Hiroshima later this year to re-energize his call for a world without nuclear arms, strengthening a drive by the site of the world’s first atomic bomb attack to host the U.S. leader.
A visit …. Original article  : Nobel peace prize winners call on Obama to visit Hiroshima.

UN draft report: Rwandan army attacks on refugees in Congo in the 1990s could be genocide

UN: Attacks on Hutus in 1990s could be genocide

JOHANNESBURG – A leaked U.N. draft report says the Rwandan army and its Congolese rebel allies now in power committed massacres in Congo in the 1990s that could be classified as genocide, using hoes and axes to kill people and burning others alive.
The report, leaked Thursday by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UN draft report: Rwandan army attacks on refugees in Congo in the 1990s could be genocide.

UK PM Cameron was almost shot down by Taliban rocket

LONDON – British military sources revealed that insurgents armed with shoulder-launched rockets came close to assassinating Prime Minister David Cameron during his recent trip to Afghanistan.

According to the sources, they knew which helicopter to target when the Prime Minister visited a British base in southern Helmand province.

Intercepted communications by militants referred to the desire … Original article on : UK PM Cameron was almost shot down by Taliban rocket.

Gadkari woos Muslims with promises of welfare, safety

BHOPAL – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Gadkari has said that whenever his party returns to power, it would protect every Muslim who loves being ideal patriot.

Addressing a public rally here on Thursday, Gadkari said: ” Congress Party spreads the notion that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is dangerous, if it comes …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gadkari woos Muslims with promises of welfare, safety.

Chidambaram’s saffron terrorism remark rocks proceedings in Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena on Friday staged protests in the Rajya Sabha over Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram’s statement on the rise in “saffron terrorism”, leading to two adjournments in proceedings of the House.

As soon as the House met for the day, Shiv …. Read the original article  : Chidambaram’s saffron terrorism remark rocks proceedings in Rajya Sabha.

Indicted Sudanese president among guests in attendance as Kenya gets new US-style constitution

Sudan leader attends Kenya constitution ceremony

NAIROBI, Kenya – African leaders including indicted Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir joined tens of thousands of Kenyans Friday as a new constitution was signed into law that institutes an American-style system of checks and balances on power.
This is only the second time that al-Bashir has risked arrest by traveling to …. Read the original article  : Indicted Sudanese president among guests in attendance as Kenya gets new US-style constitution.

Kenyan president signs new constitution into law

NAIROBI – Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki Friday signed into law a long-awaited new constitution, weeks after it was passed in a national referendum.

A massive crowd gathered to watch the president sign the document, which is part of a reform process aimed at preventing a repeat of the violence that followed disputed presidential elections in December … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kenyan president signs new constitution into law.

As candidates and allies define opponents in negative light, political ads surpass 2006 levels

Political ads surpass 2006 levels as attacks mount
WASHINGTON – Across the country, political ad spending is up and attack ads lead the way. Those who take the high road do so at their peril.
As of Thursday, candidates for state and federal office had spent $395 million on ads for the November … Read this article on Gaea Times at : As candidates and allies define opponents in negative light, political ads surpass 2006 levels.

Former Ill. Gov. Blagojevich headed for solo retrial after feds drop charges against brother

Rod Blagojevich headed for retrial without brother
CHICAGO – Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s older brother dreaded his lawyer’s phone call.
Robert Blagojevich expected to learn when he’d again stand trial alongside his sibling. A jury deadlocked last week on all four corruption charges against him and 23 of 24 charges against the former governor.
Instead, … Read more >>.

Not breaking defence ties with China, says Antony

HYDERABAD – Defence Minister A.K. Antony Friday denied that India was breaking defence ties with China.
“It is not the question of breaking ties,” Antony told reporters on the sidelines of a programme at Mishra Dhatu Nigam Ltd (MIDHANI) here.
“There are occasional problems but that will not affect our broader approach,” he said. …. Source article  : Not breaking defence ties with China, says Antony.

Be more sensitive, India tells China after visa denial report

NEW DELHI – China and India should show “sensitivity to each others’ concerns”, the Indian foreign ministry said Friday amid reports that China had denied a visa to a senior army officer responsible for Jammu and Kashmir.
“While we value our exchanges with China, there must be sensitivity to each others’ concerns,” said …. Original source  : Be more sensitive, India tells China after visa denial report.

Strange timing of NKorean leader Kim Jong Il’s visit to China spurs succession speculation

NKorean leader’s trip spurs succession speculation
CHANGCHUN, China – North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il was said to be traveling with his youngest son on a rare trip to China on Friday, re-igniting speculation the younger Kim will take over the reigns of the reclusive communist nation in coming years.
The highly unusual visit to … Read more »».

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Chidambaram’s remarks

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned twice till noon Friday as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena MPs protested Home Minister P. Chidambaram’s remarks on “saffron terrorism” at a conference of state police chiefs.
The house was first adjourned on the issue till 11.22 a.m. and later till noon. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rajya Sabha adjourned over Chidambaram’s remarks.

New Kenyan constitution becomes law, ushering in new system of government

Kenya gets new American-style constitution

NAIROBI, Kenya – African leaders joined tens of thousands of Kenyans on Friday to witness a once-in-a-generation event: the signing into law of Kenya’s new constitution.
The East African nation replaced a colonial-era constitution with one that curtails the president’s powers with an American-style system of checks and balances.
President Mwai Kibaki’s official … Read more >>>.

UN draft report: Rwandan army attacks on Hutu refugees in Congo in the 1990s could be genocide

UN: Rwandan attacks on Hutus could be genocide

JOHANNESBURG – A U.N. draft report says the Rwandan army and Congolese rebel allies now in power committed massacres of Hutu refugees in Congo in the 1990s that could be classified as genocide.
Le Monde newspaper of Paris reports that Rwanda’s president is threatening to withdraw troops from peacekeeping … Read more »»».

Monsoon session extended by two days

NEW DELHI – The monsoon session of parliament has been extended by two more days and will now conclude Tuesday, it was officially announced Friday.

The session was to end this week but over 40 hours were lost due to disruptions and some legislative business remained pending.
“The Lok Sabha will sit on Aug 30 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jimmy Carter leaves North Korea with freed US man

SEOUL – Former US president Jimmy Carter left North Korea Friday after achieving the release of a US man who had been imprisoned there, the state-run Korean Central News Agency said.
Carter flew to Pyongyang Wednesday to lobby for the release of Aijalon Mahli Gomes, 30, who was arrested in January and sentenced …. Original article  : Jimmy Carter leaves North Korea with freed US man.

Former President Carter secures release of American imprisoned in NKorea since January

NKorea releases American imprisoned since January
SEOUL, South Korea – A smile flickered across Aijalon Gomes’ face as he hugged former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and boarded a plane for Boston on Friday, seven months after his arrest in North Korea.
Carter flew to the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, this week …. Read the original article  : Former President Carter secures release of American imprisoned in NKorea since January.

Authorities: Utah sheriff’s deputy shot and killed near Arizona-Utah border; suspect at large

Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot near AZ-Utah border

FREDONIA, Ariz. – Authorities are pursuing a man they say fatally shot a Utah sheriff’s deputy near the Arizona-Utah border.
A Coconino County, Ariz., sheriff’s spokeswoman says authorities were chasing a 23-year-old man on foot when he shot a Kane County, Utah, sheriff’s deputy with a high-powered scope rifle Thursday …. Source  : Authorities: Utah sheriff’s deputy shot and killed near Arizona-Utah border; suspect at large.

American who was imprisoned in North Korea is seen by those who know him as man of conviction

US man freed from N. Korea known as deep, affable

BOSTON – An American who was imprisoned in North Korea for illegally crossing the border has a gentle spirit but is also a person of conviction willing to be bold about what he believes, friends and acquaintances said.
Aijalon Gomes had been teaching English in South Korea … Original source on Gaea Times at : American who was imprisoned in North Korea is seen by those who know him as man of conviction.

Mystery surrounds North Korea’s Kim Jong Il as motorcade seen in Changchun

Mysgtery surrounds NKorea’s Kim in China
CHANGCHUN, China – Mystery surrounded North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il on his strangely timed visit to China while former U.S. President Jimmy Carter was in North Korea winning the release of an imprisoned American.
Kim’s Thursday trip to China was his second in three months – unusual for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mystery surrounds North Korea’s Kim Jong Il as motorcade seen in Changchun.

Captured militants attack guards in army intelligence office in NW Pakistan, sparking battle

Captured militants attack guards in NW Pakistan

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Captured Islamist militants seized weapons from their guards and took them hostage during an interrogation Saturday in northwestern Pakistan, setting off a gunbattle that paralyzed parts of the city, officials said.
Police officials initially said militants had attacked the army intelligence office from outside, but other officials …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

After police chiefs, Punjab to rate deputy commissioners

CHANDIGARH – The Punjab government will now do a performance rating of deputy commissioners (DCs) of all 20 districts in the state, Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal has said.

“He (Badal) asked the chief secretary to evolve a proforma to monitor the performance and effectiveness of deputy commissioners on the pattern of senior superintendents of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : After police chiefs, Punjab to rate deputy commissioners.

Indian women politicians and their hairdos

NEW DELHI – On August 20th, Priyanka Gandhi appeared at Veer Bhoomi, the memorial in New Delhi dedicated to her father and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, to pay her respects on his 66th birth anniversary, and photographers at the location … Original article on : Indian women politicians and their hairdos.

Tony Blair buys daughter ???1m London pad

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and Cherie have spent nearly 1 million pounds on a London home for their daughter Kathryn.

This means that they have bought expensive properties for three of their children, Kathryn, 22, Nicholas, 25, and Euan, 26.

“Cherie wants all the children to have a firm platform to be …. Original article  : Tony Blair buys daughter ???1m London pad.

Catching up to private insurance, Medicare expands coverage for counseling to quit smoking

Will grandma ever quit smoking?
WASHINGTON – Medicare is catching up to most private insurers by providing counseling for any beneficiary who’s trying to quit smoking. More than 4 million seniors are hooked on cigarettes.

Dr. Barry Straube, Medicare’s chief medical officer, says it’s never too late to quit, even for lifelong smokers.
Seniors can benefit from smoking …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Catching up to private insurance, Medicare expands coverage for counseling to quit smoking.

After years of behind-the-scenes diplomacy, Carter enters spotlight with N. Korea release

Carter’s diplomacy helps free American prisoner

ATLANTA – Jimmy Carter has for years worked behind the scenes to secure the release of political prisoners. But this week he had to do it in person and in the public spotlight, traveling to North Korea to bring an American home.
The Nobel laureate was forced front-and-center when the diplomatic … Original article on : After years of behind-the-scenes diplomacy, Carter enters spotlight with N. Korea release.

Blairs now buy house for daughter

LONDON – Former British prime minister Tony Blair and wife Cherie have bought a three-bedroom house for their daughter Kathryn in central London, a media report said.

The maisonette in a Georgian townhouse in central London becomes the eighth home in the Blairs’ seemingly ever-expanding portfolio, Daily Mail reported on its website Friday.
It was bought … Read more >>.

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg talks about television and the court

Ginsburg talks about television and the high court

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said television has profoundly changed confirmation hearings but declined to say Friday whether she’d oppose televising arguments.
Ginsburg told a Colorado judicial conference that TV has made Supreme Court confirmation hearings much longer because senators posture for cameras.
“The people … Read : Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg talks about television and the court.

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg talks about television, the court

Ginsburg talks about television and Supreme Court

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg says television has profoundly changed confirmation hearings, but declined to say whether she’d oppose them.
Ginsburg told a Colorado judicial conference Friday that TV has made Supreme Court confirmation hearings longer because senators posture for cameras. She also said that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg talks about television, the court.

New York mayor plays golf with holidaying Obama

NEW YORK – New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg paid a visit to Martha’s Vineyard, where Barack Obama is on a holiday, and played golf with the US president.
The mayor was invited by Obama to talk about the economy, a White House spokesman told New York Post Friday.
“The president and Mayor Bloomberg took …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New York mayor plays golf with holidaying Obama.

Brewer condemns State Department for mentioning Arizona law in human rights report to UN

Brewer condemns report to UN mentioning Ariz. law
PHOENIX – Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer demanded Friday that a reference to the state’s controversial immigration law be removed from a State Department report to the United Nations’ human rights commissioner.
The U.S. included its legal challenge to the law on a list of ways the federal …. Read the original article  : Brewer condemns State Department for mentioning Arizona law in human rights report to UN.

Tweet posted by staffer of Alaska GOP Senate hopeful Joe Miller causes stir

Tweet by AK Senate candidate’s staffer causes stir

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Republican U.S. Senate hopeful Joe Miller apologized on Twitter and a campaign staffer was told to exercise more caution Friday after someone in Miller’s campaign sent a tweet that appeared to liken a possible party switch by Sen. Lisa Murkowski to prostitution.
The item posted on …. Read the original article  : Tweet posted by staffer of Alaska GOP Senate hopeful Joe Miller causes stir.

Democrats file complaint with IRS, accuse conservative group of tax code violations

Democrats file IRS complaint against outside group

WASHINGTON – The Democratic party has filed a complaint with the Internal Revenue Service complaining that a conservative foundation that is spending millions of dollars on ads in election battleground states is violating its status as a tax-exempt organization.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee charges that Americans for Prosperity Foundation … Original article on : Democrats file complaint with IRS, accuse conservative group of tax code violations.

Letter from the President to the Secretary of State Regarding Kyrgyzstan

Presidential Determination No. 2010-12
SUBJECT: Unexpected Urgent Refugee and Migration Needs Resulting from Violence in Kyrgyzstan
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 2(c)(1) of the Migration and Refugee Assistance Act of 1962 (the “Act”), as amended (22 U.S.C. 2601(c)(1)), I hereby determine, pursuant to section …. Read the original article  : Letter from the President to the Secretary of State Regarding Kyrgyzstan.

In close Vermont Democratic gubernatorial primary, 2nd-place finisher plans to seek a recount

Dem. runner-up wants recount in Vt. gov. primary

RICHMOND, Vt. – First, it was too close to call. Then it was called. Now, the second-place finisher is second-guessing the call.
Vermont’s unsettled Democratic gubernatorial primary got even less settled Friday, with an official vote tally confirming state Senate President Pro Tem Peter Shumlin’s victory and also-ran Doug …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : In close Vermont Democratic gubernatorial primary, 2nd-place finisher plans to seek a recount.

Gun rights lobby says it won’t endorse Reid in Nevada Senate race

NRA declines to endorse Reid in Nevada Senate race
WASHINGTON – Senate Democratic Leader Harry’s Reid’s support for President Barack Obama’s Supreme Court nominees has cost him the endorsement of the National Rifle Association.
The NRA is a force in rural states like Nevada where many voters own guns and hunt. It’s unclear whether the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gun rights lobby says it won’t endorse Reid in Nevada Senate race.

Federal appeals court upholds decision that vaccines do not cause autism

Appeals court rejects autism vaccine link
WASHINGTON – A federal appeals court on Friday upheld a ruling that vaccines are not to blame for autism.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld a decision last year by a special vaccine court, which concluded there’s little if any evidence to support claims of a vaccine-autism … Original article on : Federal appeals court upholds decision that vaccines do not cause autism.

National Guard troops to deploy to Arizona border on Monday; they’ll be armed for self-defense

Guard troops to deploy to Arizona border on Monday
PHOENIX – The first of 532 National Guard troops are set to begin their mission in the southern Arizona desert on Monday under President Barack Obama’s plan to beef up U.S.-Mexico border security, although they won’t have any law enforcement authority.
About 30 troops …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Statement by President Obama on the Promulgation of Kenya’s New Constitution

I congratulate Kenya on the promulgation of the new constitution, which was approved by a majority of voters on August 4, 2010. This historic approval and signing of the constitution is an important step forward, and demonstrates the commitment of Kenya’s leaders and people to a future of unity, democracy, and … Original article on : Statement by President Obama on the Promulgation of Kenya’s New Constitution.

Military: there was no hint that Enright couldn’t handle exposure to Afghan battlefield

Slashing suspect traveled with Marines for weeks

WASHINGTON – The college student accused of slashing a New York cab driver showed no signs he might have trouble coping with the experience of traveling with combat troops in Afghanistan, the military said Friday.
Michael Enright, a student and freelance journalist who embedded with Marines in southern Afghanistan’s restive … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Military: there was no hint that Enright couldn’t handle exposure to Afghan battlefield.

Glenn Beck’s Rally Witnesses Turnout Of 87,000

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- As many as 87,000 people congregated outside the Lincoln Memorial in the U.S. national capital of Washington which was organized by conservative talk show host Glenn Beck on Saturday. The convention which was termed as the ‘Restoring Honor’ rally was not devoid of a rush of patriotism and as well as a … Original article on : Glenn Beck’s Rally Witnesses Turnout Of 87,000.

Former crown princess presides over ‘Mrs Nepal’ contest

KATHMANDU – As Nepal still hesitates to bid a final adieu to the crown, the women in the deposed royal family have been the first to adapt to their new role as civilians.

Former Crown Princess Himani, who retained her popularity even during the height of the anti-monarchy movement in 2006 that saw the abolition of … Original article on : Former crown princess presides over ‘Mrs Nepal’ contest.

Hasina government image dips over prices, graft

DHAKA – The popularity of the Bangladesh government led by Sheikh Hasina has taken a beating over price rise, power shortage and perceptions of graft, a survey conducted on completion of her 18 months in office said.
The prime minister’s popularity has dipped, although nearly a half (49 percent) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hasina government image dips over prices, graft.

Chidambaram should not relate national flag with terrorism: BJP

PATNA – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded an apology from Union Home Minister P Chidambaram for his saffron terror remark, saying that he should not relate the national flag, saffron being one of its colours, with terrorism.

BJP spokesman Syed Shahnawaz Hussain said the colour saffron is not an identity of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chidambaram should not relate national flag with terrorism: BJP.

Tony Blair’s boxer shorts secrets revealed

LONDON – British Prime Minister Tony Blair used to wear silk Union Jack boxer shorts, his indiscreet aides have revealed.

The secret was revealed at a dinner party attended by actor Michael Sheen who has played the ex-premier in three films.

“Blair’s people got progressively more drunk throughout the night and told me more and more inappropriate …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tony Blair’s boxer shorts secrets revealed.

Manmohan Singh to visit CWG venues today

NEW DELHI – Against the backdrop of construction delays and missed deadlines, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will on Sunday visit the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and the Talkatora Stadium for an on the spot inspection of the facilities provided for the 2010 Commonwealth Games, which kicks off on October 3.
It has been reported … Read more >>>.

Nominee for South Korean premier withdraws after graft accusations

SEOUL – The man appointed as prime minister in South Korea withdrew Sunday amid corruption allegations and doubts about his qualifications for the post.

Kim Tae Ho, 47, a former governor of South Gyeongsang province, stepped aside three weeks after being named by President Lee Myung Bak, saying he did not want to be present a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nominee for South Korean premier withdraws after graft accusations.

Chinese navy to hold live-ammunition drills in Yellow Sea following US-SKorean joint exercises

Chinese navy to hold drills in Yellow Sea
BEIJING – China said Sunday its navy will stage live-ammunition drills in the Yellow Sea this week, after it condemned U.S.-South Korean joint naval exercises in the region and vowed to respond in kind.

Beijing has said last month’s U.S.-South Korea joint naval drills risked heightening tensions on the …. Source article  : Chinese navy to hold live-ammunition drills in Yellow Sea following US-SKorean joint exercises.

W.Va. governor wins Dem nomination for US Senate; Vitter cruises to GOP primary in La.

W.Va. governor wins Dem primary for US Senate
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Popular Gov. Joe Manchin won the Democratic nomination Saturday and will face GOP primary winner and wealthy businessman John Raese in the race to fill the Senate seat vacated by the late Robert C. Byrd.
Raese defeated a crowded field of Republicans and becomes [..] Read the original article: here.

Incumbent Sen. David Vitter easily captures GOP nomination in Louisiana

Sen. Vitter easily wins GOP nomination in La.

NEW ORLEANS – Incumbent Sen. David Vitter has easily won the Republican nomination and will face Democratic primary winner Rep. Charlie Melancon (muh-LAWN’-suhn) in a U.S. Senate race in Louisiana.
Vitter and Melancon each defeated two lesser-known candidates in their party primaries Saturday. With little competition in the contests, … Original article on : Incumbent Sen. David Vitter easily captures GOP nomination in Louisiana.

W.Va. Gov. Manchin wins Dem primary for US Senate; Vitter has 2 GOP challengers in La.

W.Va. Gov. Manchin wins Dem primary for US Senate
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Popular Gov. Joe Manchin won the Democratic nomination Saturday and will face GOP primary winner and wealthy businessman John Raese in the race to fill the Senate seat vacated by the late Robert C. Byrd.
Raese defeated a crowded field of Republicans … Original source on Gaea Times at : W.Va. Gov. Manchin wins Dem primary for US Senate; Vitter has 2 GOP challengers in La..

W.Va. Gov. Manchin wins Dem nomination for US Senate seat vacated by Robert Byrd’s death

W.Va. Gov. Manchin wins Dem US Senate nomination

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Popular West Virginia Democratic Gov. Joe Manchin easily won his party’s nomination and will face Republican primary winner John Raese (RAY’-see) in the race for the U.S. Senate seat held by the late Robert C. Byrd.
Raese, a wealthy businessman, defeated a crowded field of GOP … Read this article on Gaea Times at : W.Va. Gov. Manchin wins Dem nomination for US Senate seat vacated by Robert Byrd’s death.

Carly Fiorina, GOP Senate candidate in California, plans trip to Israel

Calif. GOP Senate candidate to travel to Israel

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Republican Senate candidate Carly Fiorina intends to travel to Israel over Labor Day weekend to brush up on her foreign policy credentials.
Campaign manager Marty Wilson says Fiorina, a former Hewlett-Packard chief executive, wants to be informed and updated on what’s happening in the Middle East.
The … Read : Carly Fiorina, GOP Senate candidate in California, plans trip to Israel.

Conservatives flood Washington rally

WASHINGTON – Conservatives from the US heartlands packed the nation’s capital Saturday, answering a call from right-wing TV commentator Glenn Beck and Republican politician Sarah Palin to “restore honour” to the country.
Sporting American flags and carrying folding chairs, the crowd of mostly white and older activists came to the Lincoln Memorial to honour … Original article on : Conservatives flood Washington rally.

Venezuelans protest rampant violence, some liken bloodshed to ‘undeclared war’

Venezuelans protest against unchecked violence

CARACAS, Venezuela – Opponents of President Hugo Chavez marched through Caracas on Saturday to protest rampant violence that claims thousands of lives each year in Venezuela and has been worsening in the past decade.
Protesters beat on drums and held signs with images of skulls and crossbones and slogans such as “Enough” …. Source  : Venezuelans protest rampant violence, some liken bloodshed to ‘undeclared war’.

Beck seeks help restoring traditional American values; Sharpton tries to keep King dream alive

Beck: Help us restore traditional American values
WASHINGTON – Conservative commentator Glenn Beck and tea party champion Sarah Palin appealed Saturday to a vast, predominantly white crowd on the National Mall to help restore traditional American values and honor Martin Luther King’s message. Civil rights leaders who accused the group of hijacking King’s legacy …. Original source  : Beck seeks help restoring traditional American values; Sharpton tries to keep King dream alive.

Glenn Beck borrows rhetoric at his DC rally from candidate Obama’s stump speech in 2008

Beck draws on Obama stump speech from 2008 race

WASHINGTON – Glenn Beck is borrowing some lines from President Barack Obama.
At his rally with tens of thousands on the steps of Lincoln Memorial, Beck used the closing lines of then-candidate Obama’s campaign stump speech of 2008.
“One man can change the world,” Beck told the crowd. “That … Original article on : Glenn Beck borrows rhetoric at his DC rally from candidate Obama’s stump speech in 2008.

Congress to facilitate Kashmir dialogue: Soz

JAMMU – The Congress will play a critical role in facilitating dialogue between separatists and other groups in Kashmir and the central government in a bid to achieve peace in the restive Valley where life has been paralysed for almost three months now, a senior party leader said Saturday.
“It will …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rwanda threatens to withdraw peacekeepers over UN report implicating Rwanda in Congo genocide

Rwanda threatens to withdraw peacekeepers
JOHANNESBURG – Rwanda has threatened to withdraw its troops from United Nations peacekeeping operations if the world body publishes a report accusing the Rwandan army of committing possible genocide in Congo in the 1990s, Rwanda’s foreign minister says in a letter sent to the U.N.

Addressed to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, the letter … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rwanda threatens to withdraw peacekeepers over UN report implicating Rwanda in Congo genocide.

Governor’s rule in Kashmir demanded

NEW DELHI – An organisation of Kashmiri Pandits Sunday demanded imposition of the governor’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir, saying that the Omar Abdullah-led state government had failed and become “dysfunctional”.

Sunil Shakder, president of S.K. Foundation, said in a statement that the government should start the dialogue process by first talking to Kashmiri Pandits who …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Governor’s rule in Kashmir demanded.

Lok Sabha adjourned over enemy property bill

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned for two hours Monday – the second disruption on the day – after an uproar over the proposed amendments to the Enemy Property Act empowering the government to dispose of properties in India of those who left for Pakistan in 1947.

The amendments reverse over four-decade-old government …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lok Sabha adjourned over enemy property bill.

Yechury favours all party talks on Darjeeling issue

DARJEELING – Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Sitaram Yechury has said all political parties from the Darjeeling hills should be invited for the next round of talks on the interim set-up for the region.

Talking to reporters here on Sunday, Yechury said: “The issue must be collectively taken forward and we would want all the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yechury favours all party talks on Darjeeling issue.

SAD-BJP alliance is unbreakable: Yashwant Sinha

CHANDIGARH – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Yashwant Sinha Monday said the alliance between his party and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) in Punjab was solid and unbreakable.

“I want to tell you that the alliance will continue. There is no misunderstanding between both sides,” Sinha, newly-appointed as the BJP in-charge for Punjab, told reporters … Read more >>.

China announces global talent search for executives at 12 major state companies

China in global talent search for state companies

BEIJING – China’s government announced a global talent search Monday to fill top posts at 12 major state-owned companies in its latest effort to turn huge but inefficient government enterprises into global competitors.
Communist leaders want to build up 30 to 50 state companies as national champions in fields …. Source article  : China announces global talent search for executives at 12 major state companies.

US-Egyptian dissident signs petition backing president’s son to run in elections

Egypt: Dissident signs pro-Gamal Mubarak petition

CAIRO – An Egyptian-American dissident and former advocate against heredity succession in Egypt has signed a petition backing the president’s son to run in next year’s elections.
Saad Eddin Ibrahim told The Associated Press Monday that he was only supporting Gamal Mubarak’s right to run in presidential elections, not endorsing him.
The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama presides over end of Iraq combat mission, Mideast talks; more guarded hope than triumph

War and peace: Obama nears pivotal Mideast moment
WASHINGTON – Straddling war and peace, President Barack Obama is about to formally end the divisive U.S. combat role in Iraq and restart talks between Israelis and Palestinians, a moment defined more by relief and hope than triumph.
On Tuesday night, Obama will tell the … Read more >>>.

Parliament adjourned over alleged misuse of CBI

NEW DELHI – Disruptions returned to parliament on the penultimate day of the monsoon session Monday as opposition members forced adjournments of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha over the alleged misuse of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by the government.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members demanded discussion on the issue …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Parliament adjourned over alleged misuse of CBI.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Sohrabuddin case

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till noon Monday after opposition members voiced protests over a Gujarat police officer’s petition to the Supreme Court that she was being pressurised to implicate former state minister Amit Shah in the 2005 Sohrabuddin Sheikh killing.

As soon as the Rajya Sabha assembled for question hour, members of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rajya Sabha adjourned over Sohrabuddin case.

North Korean leader Kim may be headed home after Chinese trip that sparked succession talk

North Korean leader Kim may be headed home
BEIJING – North Korean leader Kim Jong Il appeared Monday to be winding up a six-day visit to China that fueled speculation he was seeking aid and drumming up support for a succession plan involving his youngest son.
Reporters have followed a train and a 35-vehicle motorcade …. Original source  : North Korean leader Kim may be headed home after Chinese trip that sparked succession talk.

Aborigine nears victory as first indigenous member of Australia’s House of Representatives

Aborigine nears win in Australia’s House of Reps

SYDNEY – An Aboriginal man appeared set for victory Monday in his quest to become the first indigenous person to win a seat in Australia’s House of Representatives.
Ken Wyatt of the conservative Liberal Party held a thin lead in the Western Australia seat of Hasluck with 93 percent … Original article on : Aborigine nears victory as first indigenous member of Australia’s House of Representatives.

Bangladesh, China discuss road link

DHAKA – China is ready to sign a pact with Bangladesh on a road link via Myanmar, a visiting Chinese official has said.
China had expressed its support to build a 111-km road covering the three nations in March this year. It will link the southern Yunnan province with Bangladesh via Myanmar. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bangladesh ex-dictator meets Hasina, may escape punishment

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s former military ruler Hussain Mohammed Ershad may escape punishment for violating the country’s constitution following his meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after which he “looked quite happy”, his aides said.
The meeting Sunday took place at Ershad’s instance, three days after the high court invalidated the seventh amendment to the …. Source  : Bangladesh ex-dictator meets Hasina, may escape punishment.

MPs: Crorepatis or underpaid public servants?

NEW DELHI – A 300-percent salary hike plus doubling of generous allowances is in the offing for our MPs, never mind that the majority of them are ‘crorepatis’, or millionaires as revealed by their declared assets! The MPs, of course, insist what they get is woefully short of what is required to discharge their duties …. Original source  : MPs: Crorepatis or underpaid public servants?.

North Korean leader Kim leaves northeastern Chinese city on trip that sparked succession talk

NKorean leader Kim leaves Chinese city Harbin
CHANGCHUN, China – North Korean leader Kim Jong Il left China’s northeastern city of Harbin on Monday in the latest leg of a secretive trip believed aimed at drumming up support for a succession plan involving his youngest son, news reports said.
Reporters have followed a 35-vehicle motorcade …. Source article  : North Korean leader Kim leaves northeastern Chinese city on trip that sparked succession talk.

Hong Kong marchers protest Philippine government over hijacking that killed 8

Hong Kong marchers protest handling of bus tragedy

HONG KONG – Hong Kongers marched in honor of eight locals killed in a bus hijacking in Manila, denouncing the Philippine government for botching the rescue operation and demanding justice for the dead.
Former police officer Rolando Mendoza commandeered a bus carrying a 20-member tour group visiting the Philippine …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Estimated 80,000 people in Hong Kong protest Philippine hijacking that killed 8, demand probe

80,000 in Hong Kong protest Philippine bus tragedy

HONG KONG – Hong Kongers marched in honor of eight locals killed in a bus hijacking in Manila, denouncing the Philippine government for botching the rescue operation and demanding justice for the dead.
Former police officer Rolando Mendoza commandeered a bus carrying a 20-member tour group visiting the Philippine … Original article on : Estimated 80,000 people in Hong Kong protest Philippine hijacking that killed 8, demand probe.

Israel to blame if talks fail: Abbas

RAMALLAH – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas Sunday warned Israel would foil peace talks to be resumed Sept 2 if it continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

“Israel’s government would alone bear the responsibility of threatening the negotiations with failure and collapse if all forms of settlement expansions continued,” Abbas said in … Read more : Israel to blame if talks fail: Abbas.

Politician leading coalition talks in Belgium offers to resign, but king says keep trying

King orders coalition talks to continue in Belgium

BRUSSELS – A politician leading talks aimed at forming a new government in Belgium more than two months after an election offered to resign Sunday, but the country’s king ordered him to keep trying.
Talks on long-standing differences over language issues dividing the nation’s Dutch-speaking and Francophone parties broke … Original article on : Politician leading coalition talks in Belgium offers to resign, but king says keep trying.

Merkel seeks 10-15 years extension for nuclear plants

BERLIN – Chancellor Angela Merkel called Sunday for Germany’s nuclear power plants to be given an extension of 10 to 15 years past their current legal shutoff date in about 2022.

The options of shutting down, continuing with or extending the life of the country’s reactors has proved a hot political issue, dividing the last three [..] Read the original article: here.

Remarks by the President on the Fifth Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, Louisiana

Xavier University
New Orleans, Louisiana
1:50 P.M. CDT
     THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, everybody.  It is good to be back.  (Applause.)  It is good to be back.

     AUDIENCE MEMBER:  It’s good to have you back!
     THE PRESIDENT:  I’m glad.  (Laughter.)  And due to popular demand, I decided to bring the First Lady down here.  (Applause.)
     We have just an …. Read the original article  : Remarks by the President on the Fifth Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, Louisiana.

CPI-M demands probe into Kashmir killings

NEW DELHI – Alleging that innocent citizens are being killed by the security forces in the Kashmir Valley, the Communist Party of India Marxist (CPI-M) Tuesday demanded a probe into the killings.

In a zero hour mention in the Rajya Sabha, CPI-M leader Brinda Karat blamed the central government for “negligence” towards the Kashmir issue.
“How …. Original article  : CPI-M demands probe into Kashmir killings.

Netanyahu leaves for US for peace talks relaunch

TEL AVIV – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Tuesday left for Washington ahead of direct Israeli-Palestinian peace talks – the first face-to-face negotiations between the sides in more than a year.
The Israeli leader, along with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and Jordanian King Abdullah II, will attended a ceremonial dinner …. Read the original article  : Netanyahu leaves for US for peace talks relaunch.

Parliament should set example for the world: President

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil said Wednesday that the functioning of India’s parliament must meet exacting standards and set an example for the rest of the world, adding that the image in the public mind of the highest elected body should be one where debates take place in a constructive manner.
Giving away …. Original article  : Parliament should set example for the world: President.

Japan says tensions mean its too early to resume 6-party North Korea nuclear talks

Japan says too early to resume Korea nuclear talks
TOKYO – Japan rejected North Korea’s apparent interest in a quick resumption of six-party talks on Pyonyang’s nuclear program, saying Tuesday that the time was not right for fresh discussions.
The talks involving the two Koreas, China, the United States, Russia and Japan have been stalled …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Firefight sparked by parking dispute highlights militias’ role in Lebanon’s tensions

Armed militias: a quandary for Lebanon, US

BEIRUT – It started with a dispute over a parking space and erupted into a four-hour street war between Hezbollah and a rival militia, with masked snipers running through alleyways and rocket-propelled grenades exploding in the middle of a Beirut neighborhood.
Last week’s bloodshed, which killed three people, was nothing … Original article on : Firefight sparked by parking dispute highlights militias’ role in Lebanon’s tensions.

With US combat missions in Iraq ending, Obama to honor troops for service

Obama to honor troops as Iraq combat mission ends
WASHINGTON – As President Barack Obama prepares to officially end the lengthy and divisive U.S. combat operation in Iraq, he’ll personally thank some of the soldiers who fought there for their service to a mission he forcefully opposed from the start.
Many of those … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : With US combat missions in Iraq ending, Obama to honor troops for service.

AP-GfK Poll: Voters with strongest views on economy, other issues tilt toward GOP

AP-GfK Poll: Most attuned voters tilt toward GOP
WASHINGTON – A new poll shows that Americans with the strongest opinions about the country’s most divisive issues are unhappy with how President Barack Obama is handling them.
The Associated Press-GfK poll shows that Americans who expressed intense interest in nine out of 15 issues, including the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

AICC announces compensation for families of victims committing suicide after YSR death

NEW DELHI – The Congress Party has announced Rs. one lakh to the relatives of each of the workers who committed suicide in shock after former Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy’s death in a helicopter crash in September last year.

At least 600 people are said to have died after Reddy’s death.

All India Congress …. Original article  : AICC announces compensation for families of victims committing suicide after YSR death.

Myanmar’s pro-junta parties field army of candidates

YANGON – Myanmar’s two pro-junta parties have submitted large candidate lists for the country’s Nov 7 general election, dwarfing the number of pro-democracy candidates, party sources said Tuesday.

Parties had to submit their candidate lists to the election commission Monday to qualify for the Nov 7 polls, Myanmar’s first in two decades.
The pro-junta Union Solidarity … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Myanmar’s pro-junta parties field army of candidates.

As Biden presides over end of combat operations, few Iraqis cheer Americans’ exit

Fearing the future, few Iraqis cheer US departure
BAGHDAD – As Vice President Joe Biden presides over the formal end to U.S. combat operations in Iraq, few Iraqis are cheering the American exit.
Iraqis, who for years have railed against the U.S. occupation, are generally happy to see that the American presence won’t be endless. … Original article on : As Biden presides over end of combat operations, few Iraqis cheer Americans’ exit.

Gillard vows to improve Australian democracy

SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has pledged to “renovate” the Labor Party’s tradition to make lasting improvements to Australian democracy.

With the Australian Electoral Commission’s vote count still hanging between Labor and the opposition coalition, Gillard Tuesday pledged to make changes if Labor retained power in a hung parliament, without spelling out specific details, …. Original article  : Gillard vows to improve Australian democracy.

Myanmar’s front pages dispel rumors, confirm Than Shwe remains chief of military junta

Myanmar media confirm junta chief retains power

YANGON, Myanmar – A message from Myanmar’s junta chief Senior Gen. Than Shwe appeared in state media Tuesday, dispelling reports that he had stepped down from the army as part of a major military reshuffle ahead of elections.
The message was a typical note of congratulations to Malaysia on its … Read more : Myanmar’s front pages dispel rumors, confirm Than Shwe remains chief of military junta.

Venezuelan hunger striker dies after repeated protests over land dispute with government

Farmer-turned-hunger striker dies in Venezuela

CARACAS, Venezuela – A Venezuelan farmer who staged repeated hunger strikes to protest a government-sanctioned takeover of his farm has died in a military hospital in Caracas.
Franklin Brito’s family announced his death on Monday night. The 49-year-old Brito’s emaciated figure had in recent months become a banner for opponents of President …. Original source  : Venezuelan hunger striker dies after repeated protests over land dispute with government.

I was at death’s door, says Castro

Mexico City, Aug 31 (IANS/EFE) After a serious illness that took him four years to recover, former Cuban president Fidel Castro has said he felt like he “rose from the dead into a world of crazies” and that he “didn’t aspire to live any longer”.
Castro, in an exclusive five-hour conversation with Carmen Lira, … Original source on Gaea Times at : I was at death’s door, says Castro.

Putin dismisses rumours about his running the country

Moscow, Aug 31 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has dismissed rumours about him still running Russia as “complete nonsense”.
“It is a complete nonsense that I am still running the country,” the prime minister said during a 2,000-km trip along the Khabarovsk to Chita highway Monday.
Putin said he was mainly engaged …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hundreds attend memorial for Wash. pastor killed by deputy; investigation of shooting ongoing

Memorial held for Wash. pastor killed by deputy

SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – Hundreds gathered Monday at a memorial service for a western Washington pastor fatally shot by a sheriff’s deputy.
The service at the Baptist church founded by 74-year-old Wayne Scott Creach included only a brief mention of the questions surrounding Creach’s death late Wednesday.
Colleague Eric Walsh [..] Read the original article: here.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Obama, Michelle Obama’s loose lips tell plenty about Malia, Sasha’s doings

CAPITAL CULTURE: Obamas dish on daughters’ doings
WASHINGTON – Twelve-year-old Malia Obama wears braces, toots a flute and is after her father to save the tigers. Younger sister Sasha, who is 9, shoots hoops like her basketball-loving dad and dances hip-hop.
Both girls get up at 6 a.m. to get ready for school.
Barack …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : CAPITAL CULTURE: Obama, Michelle Obama’s loose lips tell plenty about Malia, Sasha’s doings.

Ex-envoy Blackwill returns to US think tank

WASHINGTON – Former US Ambassador to India, Robert Blackwill, is returning to the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), a leading US think tank to focus on American foreign policy toward India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

Naming Blackwill, a deputy national security advisor for strategic planning under President George W. Bush, as Henry A. Kissinger Senior Fellow for …. Original source  : Ex-envoy Blackwill returns to US think tank.

MPs’ salary hike: Do they have a case? (Special)

The Lok Sabha has passed the bill to revise the salary of members of parliament. Much of the debate in the media has been on the wealth of current MPs and the lack of accountability. It is important to focus as well on structural issues related to remunerating legislators.

Under the bill, the base salary [..] Read the original article: here.

Alaska Sen. Murkowski: Rival’s call for election investigations creating doubts about process

AK Senate hopeful seeks probe of election observer
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski said Monday her Republican rival Joe Miller may be creating doubt in the minds of Alaskans about the integrity of the voting process by ratcheting up the hyperbole about possible election fraud.
“I am really astounded that the Miller camp … Read : Alaska Sen. Murkowski: Rival’s call for election investigations creating doubts about process.