Koreas agree to 1st family reunions in 1 year amid latest NKorean threat

Koreas agree to 1st family reunions in 1 year

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea says Red Cross officials from the two Koreas have agreed to hold reunions for families separated by their civil war.
Unification Ministry spokeswoman Lee Jong-joo said Friday that the two Koreas will hold the reunions from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5 at … Read more : Koreas agree to 1st family reunions in 1 year amid latest NKorean threat.

Former Pakistani leader Pervez Musharraf says in London only military can save Pakistan

Ex-general Musharraf to launch new political party

LONDON – Pakistan’s former military ruler Pervez Musharraf is launching a new political party in London, setting the stage for his return to the country before 2013 elections.
Musharraf, who has lived in London since he stepped down in 2008, told the BBC that the army must be involved in … Read more : Former Pakistani leader Pervez Musharraf says in London only military can save Pakistan.

Nirmohi Akhara Discontent with the Ayodhya Verdict Result

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Nirmohi Akhara, one of the parties to the 60-year-old dispute in Ayodhya verdict is totally discontent with the judgement given yesterday.
According to sources the lawyer of Nirmohi Akhara, Ranjit Lal Verma will appeal to the Supreme Court against the judgement delivered by Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court.
Verma stated …. Read the original article  : Nirmohi Akhara Discontent with the Ayodhya Verdict Result.

Biographical information on Rahm Emanuel

Biographical information on Rahm Emanuel
NAME – Rahm Israel Emanuel.

AGE-BIRTH DATE-LOCATION – 50; Nov. 29, 1959; Chicago.
EXPERIENCE – White House chief of staff, 2009-present; congressman representing Illinois, 2003-2008; managing director, investment bank Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein, Chicago, 1999-2002; various Clinton administration positions, including senior policy adviser, director of special projects, political director, White House, 1993-1998; national finance … Original article on : Biographical information on Rahm Emanuel.

Aung San Suu Kyi’s detention expires Nov. 13 raising questions over her imminent release

Myanmar abuzz over possible release of Suu Kyi

YANGON, Myanmar – The detention of Myanmar’s democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi expires early next month, but officials said Friday that only the ruling junta chief knows exactly when she will be granted freedom.
The Nobel Peace laureate has been locked away for 15 of the past 21 …. Original source  : Aung San Suu Kyi’s detention expires Nov. 13 raising questions over her imminent release.

INSIDE WASHINGTON: Gingrich stirs up talk about 2012 while maintaining star power and profits

INSIDE WASHINGTON: Gingrich brews up buzz, profits

WASHINGTON – Newt Gingrich may be running for the Republican presidential nomination. Or maybe he is just running all the way to the bank.
The wonky former House speaker and unofficial Republican pundit in chief is tossing around provocative commentary and juicy hints about running for president, making sure he’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama to make it official, finally: Emanuel quitting chief of staff’s job, Rouse in as interim

White House chief of staff: Emanuel out, Rouse in

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is making official what has been clear for days: Rahm Emanuel, the relentless enforcer of his agenda as White House chief of staff, is resigning. The job Emanuel wants now is mayor of Chicago, where his next fierce political fight awaits.
What Emanuel … Read more »».

Berlusconi’s ally apologises for calling Romans ‘pigs’

Rome, Oct 1 (IANS/AKI) Italian Prime Pinister Silvio Berlusconi’s close political ally, Umberto Bossi, has apologised for infuriating residents of this capital city by calling Romans “pigs”.

During a beauty pageant earlier this week, Bossi, the gruff founder of the Northern League party, referred to the ancient SPQR motto and said it stood for “Sono … Original source on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi’s ally apologises for calling Romans ‘pigs’.

Allahabad High Court’s Ayodhya Verdict: Reactions Pouring In

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Since the three-member judge panel of the Allahabad High Court gave out the much-anticipated judgment in the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case, reactions of leader across political parties have been pouring in. The decision of the Allahabad High Court to divide the disputed property in Ayodhya among the three main petitioners with … Original article on : Allahabad High Court’s Ayodhya Verdict: Reactions Pouring In.

Bypoll in Chhhattisgarh begins on dull note

RAIPUR – Polling for Bhatgaon assembly seat in Chhattisgarh’s Surguja district began on a dull note at 8 a.m. Friday but women were seen lined up in large numbers for voting.

Women voters number roughly 85,000 in the constituency that is located in extreme north of the state and is some 400 km from Raipur. … Read more : Bypoll in Chhhattisgarh begins on dull note.

Japan PM concerned over China’s widening maritime activity as 3 Japanese freed return

Japan PM concerned over China’s maritime expansion

TOKYO – Japan’s prime minister urged China to act as a “responsible” member of the international community Friday and raised concern over its expanding maritime activity in Asia, including in disputed waters where a ship collision ignited a bitter diplomatic feud.
Prime Minister Naoto Kan’s comments came after three Japanese … Read more »»».

Ramjanmabhoomi Judgment Delivered

LUCKNOW, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The landmark Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid verdict was delivered on Thursday by a three-member panel of judges of the Allahabad High Court, finally providing a closure in the 60-year-old ownership dispute. The judgment that eagerly awaited with securities in states across the country being beefed up fearing any kind of violent religious backlash …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ramjanmabhoomi Judgment Delivered.

India hopes to address US concerns on n-bill before Obama visit

WASHINGTON – Asserting that India’s nuclear liability bill was not inconsistent with international norms, National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon has said New Delhi hopes to address US corporate concerns before President Barack Obama’s India visit.

“We do not see any surmountable amount of problem in working the solution of the civil liability for nuclear damage … Read : India hopes to address US concerns on n-bill before Obama visit.

Kerry phones Gilani after NATO cross-border strike

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has conveyed concern over the recent increase in US drone attacks and NATO helicopter strikes inside Pakistan to Senator John Kerry, when the latter made a telephone call to him.

Gilani also informed Kerry about the unanimous condemnation of the attacks by the Pakistan parliament, the Daily … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kerry phones Gilani after NATO cross-border strike.

Vice President Joe Biden attends fundraiser for NM Democratic gubernatorial candidate Denish

VP Joe Biden attends NM fundraising event
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Vice President Joe Biden spoke briefly Thursday at a Democratic gubernatorial candidate’s fundraiser in Albuquerque, N.M.

KRQE-TV reports the $1,500-a-head event benefited Diane Denish’s campaign. Denish faces Republican Susana Martinez in a race to determine who will become New Mexico’s first female governor.
Denish has served as lieutenant …. Source  : Vice President Joe Biden attends fundraiser for NM Democratic gubernatorial candidate Denish.

No link between UNSC seat for India and Kashmir: US

WASHINGTON – The United States has discounted reports that President Barack Obama would endorse India’s permanent membership of UN Security Council in return for resolving the Kashmir issue, saying there is no link between them.

“I don’t see a link between the two,” said State Department spokesman Phillip Crowley when asked about reports …. Original article  : No link between UNSC seat for India and Kashmir: US.

India seeks international dimension to ties with US

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama’s upcoming visit to India gives an opportunity to realise the international significance of their strategic partnership, according to National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon.

“India and the USA stand at an important moment in our partnership,” said Menon who was here to lay the groundwork for the Obama visit in …. Source  : India seeks international dimension to ties with US.

Ecuadorean soldiers rescue president after firefight with rebel cops outside hospital

Ecuador troops rescue president from rebel cops

QUITO, Ecuador – Ecuador was under a state of siege Friday, with the military in charge of public order, after soldiers rescued President Rafael Correa from a hospital where he’d been surrounded by police who also roughed him up and tear-gassed him.
Correa and his ministers called Thursday’s revolt – … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ecuadorean soldiers rescue president after firefight with rebel cops outside hospital.

Koreas meet to work out details of proposed family reunions

Koreas meet to discuss family reunions
SEOUL, South Korea – Red Cross officials from the two Koreas tried to work out differences Friday on holding reunions for families separated by civil war, a day after the North hinted it might fire artillery on activists who disperse anti-North leaflets.

The reunions, which have not been held for a … Read more : Koreas meet to work out details of proposed family reunions.

Obama rallies youth vote that boosted his 2008 run with fiery speech at hip hop concert/rally

Obama charges up young voters at concert/rally

WASHINGTON – Grasping for the electric energy that propelled him to the White House, President Barack Obama whipped up young supporters at a rally Thursday night, where the boisterous crowd tried to shout down any talk of an “enthusiasm gap” among Democrats.
“I’m back here today just in case you’ve …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama rallies youth vote that boosted his 2008 run with fiery speech at hip hop concert/rally.

President, PM pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday led the nation in paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi on his 141st birth anniversary.

The president, the vice president, the prime minister and Congress president Sonia Gandhi laid floral wreaths at Rajghat — the memorial to the Mahatma on …. Source  : President, PM pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi.

Obama to relax at Camp David, host retreat for Cabinet members and their families

Obama to spend weekend at Camp David
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will travel to Camp David on Saturday morning.

On Sunday, Obama and first lady Michelle Obama will host a retreat for Cabinet members and their families at the presidential country getaway in Maryland’s Catoctin Mountains. Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, will also … Read more »»».

Govt to consider “other options” if NATO air raids continue in Pak territory: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – In the wake of the recent NATO and the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) intrusions into Pakistani territory, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has stated that the government might consider “other options,” if the US-led forces went on with their cross-border air strikes.

Speaking in the National Assembly, Gilani assured … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Govt to consider “other options” if NATO air raids continue in Pak territory: Gilani.

Abbas to consult with senior Palestinians to decide whether to quit Mideast peace talks

Abbas to consult aides on fate of Mideast talks

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is to consult with senior Palestinians to decide whether to quit Mideast peace talks over Israel’s refusal to extend a slowdown in West Bank settlement construction.
Saturday’s meeting of leading members of the PLO and Abbas’ Fatah movement was initially …. Read the original article  : Abbas to consult with senior Palestinians to decide whether to quit Mideast peace talks.

New Maliki govt with anti-US Shiite Islamic support could complicate Iraq-US relationship

BAGHDAD – The comeback of Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki to power, which is widely expected especially after he secured the support of an anti-American Shiite Islamic movement on Friday, could reportedly complicate his country’s relations with the United States.

The deal has … Read : New Maliki govt with anti-US Shiite Islamic support could complicate Iraq-US relationship.

9 years on, despite the record, conspiracy theories 9/11 rife in Muslim world

9/11 conspiracy theories rife in Muslim world

ISTANBUL – About a week ago, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad declared to the United Nations that most people in the world believe the United States was behind the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
To many people in the West, the statement was ludicrous, almost laughable if it weren’t so …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 9 years on, despite the record, conspiracy theories 9/11 rife in Muslim world.

Labor, civil rights groups rally voters at Lincoln Memorial a month before elections

Labor, civil rights groups rally on Mall
WASHINGTON – Organized labor and civil rights groups are looking to energize their supporters with a rally at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where a month ago tea party activists gathered to hear conservative commentator Glenn Beck.

More than 400 organizations, ranging from labor unions to faith, environmental and … Original article on : Labor, civil rights groups rally voters at Lincoln Memorial a month before elections.

Nobel experts predict low-key peace prize after Obama stunner

Nobel experts predict low-key prize after Obama

STOCKHOLM – As the secretive Nobel Prize committees huddle for their final deliberations to select the 2010 winners, the question looms large: Are the jurors preparing another Obama-style shocker?
After the unusual ruckus caused by honoring Barack Obama less than nine months into his presidency, Nobel experts believe the peace …. Read the original article  : Nobel experts predict low-key peace prize after Obama stunner.

‘Mulayam Singh must seek pardon for Ayodhya comments’

LUCKNOW – A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Saturday demanded that Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav should seek pardon for his comments that the Allahabad High Courts verdict on the Ayodhya dispute was based on belief and not legalities and evidences.

His (Yadavs) comments are extremely unfortunateHe must seek pardon from the people of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Mulayam Singh must seek pardon for Ayodhya comments’.

Delhi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Hundreds of people, including school children, in Delhi sang devotional songs and showered flowers and petals at Rajghat in tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Saturday on his 142nd birth anniversary.

“I’ve been coming here (Rajghat) for the last three years to pay homage to Bapu (as Gandhi was popularly known). Me and my … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Delhi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

Business ties, AfPak to be ‘big focus’ of Obama visit

WASHINGTON – The White House expects world economy, bilateral business relationships and Afghanistan and Pakistan situation to be a “big focus” of US President Barack Obama’s visit to India in early November.

“Obviously, I anticipate that the world economy and our bilateral business relationships with India will be an important aspect of that trip,” Obama’s …. Original source  : Business ties, AfPak to be ‘big focus’ of Obama visit.

In latest Maher clip, O’Donnell says she couldn’t be Hare Krishna because she likes meat

Clip: Meat made O’Donnell avoid being Hare Krishna

WILMINGTON, Del. – Delaware Republican Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell says with a laugh that she tried several religions but skipped becoming a Hare Krishna because she didn’t want to be vegetarian in a 1999 interview.
Bill Maher aired the clip of O’Donnell Friday night on his show “Real Time …. Source article  : In latest Maher clip, O’Donnell says she couldn’t be Hare Krishna because she likes meat.

Historic Pearl Harbor, Hickam military bases finish merger to become joint base

Historic Oahu military bases now a joint base

HONOLULU – Two historic Oahu military bases have formally merged.
Naval Base Pearl Harbor and Hickam Air Force Base became one installation Friday.
They’re among 26 installations across the country that are combining to become 12 joint bases as the military strives to become more efficient.
Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam commander …. Source  : Historic Pearl Harbor, Hickam military bases finish merger to become joint base.

Mexico selects 11 boycotting players for exhibition against Venezuela

Mexico selects boycotting players for exhibition

MEXICO CITY – Mexican soccer’s governing body selected 11 players for an Oct. 12 exhibition Venezuela despite the a boycott by the group over discipline.
The 11 players were fined by the Mexican Football Federation for breaches of discipline during a party held after a September exhibition against Colombia.
The players, including … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mexico selects 11 boycotting players for exhibition against Venezuela.

AP Interview: After keeping low profile, O’Donnell denies misrepresenting education record

O’Donnell denies misrepresenting education

WILMINGTON, Del. – After nearly disappearing from public view following her upset victory in Delaware’s GOP primary, Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell re-emerged Friday, denying reports that she tried to falsify her education background.
In an interview with The Associated Press, O’Donnell also denied she had been ducking the media or had gone into …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : AP Interview: After keeping low profile, O’Donnell denies misrepresenting education record.

Housekeeper saga carries risks for Whitman push to win Latinos in Calif. governor’s race

Maid dispute could hurt Whitman’s Latino strategy

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The airwaves in California have been dominated by images of a teary immigrant housekeeper claiming she was mistreated by her billionaire employer and turned away when she asked for citizenship help.
It’s far from the message Republican Meg Whitman wants to send to the state’s crucial Latino … Original source on Gaea Times at : Housekeeper saga carries risks for Whitman push to win Latinos in Calif. governor’s race.

Political dance in Chicago mayor’s race as Emanuel, others hold off on official announcements

Political dance continues in Chicago mayor’s race

CHICAGO – When Rahm Emanuel quit Friday as President Barack Obama’s chief of staff, he said it was for “new challenges” in Chicago, talked up the unbeaten Bears and lauded the city – never once mentioning he was coming home to run for mayor.
Emanuel joins a growing list of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Political dance in Chicago mayor’s race as Emanuel, others hold off on official announcements.

Statement by NSC Spokesman Mike Hammer on National Security Advisor General Jim Jones’ Travel to Germany and Russia October 2-6

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

National Security Advisor General Jim Jones will be traveling to Bremen, Germany, as head of the Presidential delegation to attend the 20th Anniversary of … Original article on : Statement by NSC Spokesman Mike Hammer on National Security Advisor General Jim Jones’ Travel to Germany and Russia October 2-6.

Presidential Proclamation???National Arts and Humanities Month

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Throughout history, the arts and humanities have helped men and women around the globe grapple with the most challenging questions and come to know … Read more : Presidential Proclamation–National Arts and Humanities Month.

Statement by the NSC Spokesman Mike Hammer on the Resolution on Elimination of Discrimination Against Women at the U.N. Human Rights Council

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The United States welcomes the adoption today by the United Nations Human Rights Council of a resolution addressing the elimination of discrimination against women.  …. Read the original article  : Statement by the NSC Spokesman Mike Hammer on the Resolution on Elimination of Discrimination Against Women at the U.N. Human Rights Council.

Gillard assures Oz troops in Afghanistan committed to Oruzgan mission

CANBERRA – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has assured the Australian troops in Afghanistan of her commitment to the Oruzgan mission during a surprise visit to the war-torn country.

According to The Australian, Gillard welcomed a debate on the war as a chance to build public support, as the US team leader rejected calls for tanks … Read more »».

BJP issues notice to Congress after www.bjp.com directed to AICC website

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has served a legal notice to the Congress party over its website www.bjp.com being directed to the official website of the All India Congress Committee (AICC).

“Any one, who types www.bjp.com is directly taken to/connected with the website of the Indian National Congress viz., www.congress.org.in . While typing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP issues notice to Congress after www.bjp.com directed to AICC website.

BJP serves cyber fraud notice to Congress

NEW DELHI – It is a minor political war in cyber space. An angry Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has alleged that the Congress party “bought” a website mimicking the BJP’s own which re-directed all hits to the All India Congress Committee (AICC) site. The BJP has served a legal notice, an official said Sunday.

“Yes, …. Source  : BJP serves cyber fraud notice to Congress.

When the PM’s silence spoke volumes (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – At a Rashtrapati Bhavan event, Sports Minister M S Gill remonstrated to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh about how, contrary to the “negative media campaign”, chefs de mission of various countries were praising the facilities at the Commonwealth Games and had no complaints about anything. The prime minister gave a patient ear …. Source  : When the PM’s silence spoke volumes (Capital Buzz).

How Margaret Thatcher helped catch the Yorkshire Ripper

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher took over the hunt for the Yorkshire Ripper personally during her tenure, it has emerged.

In early eighties, the Yorkshire Ripper case had become a public scandal, with questions being about the efficiency of the police, reports the Daily Mail.

In a biography of Thatcher …. Read the original article  : How Margaret Thatcher helped catch the Yorkshire Ripper.

Louisiana Secretary Of State Jay Dardenne Takes Lead

BATON ROUGE (GaeaTimes.com)- Jay Dardenne, the Louisiana secretary of state, took a lead in the election on Saturday against new comer democrat Caroline Fayard. This election would decide who would take the place of Mitch Landrieu, as the governor lieutenant of Louisiana, for the remaining year, after he leaves his office. The main election will …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Louisiana Secretary Of State Jay Dardenne Takes Lead.

Israeli police kill Palestinian laborer who entered volatile east Jerusalem illegally

Israeli police kill Palestinian laborer
JERUSALEM – Israeli police have killed a Palestinian laborer who entered east Jerusalem illegally, igniting new tensions in the volatile sector of the city.

The circumstances of the pre-dawn shooting are unclear.
Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld says the man was among a group of illegal workers who had sneaked over Israel’s West Bank …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israeli police kill Palestinian laborer who entered volatile east Jerusalem illegally.

Nawaz Sharif ‘brainless’, says Musharraf

ISLAMABAD – Former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, who launched his own party in London Friday to contest the 2013 elections in Pakistan, says former prime minister Nawaz Sharif is “totally brainless” and had failed to deliver on the two occasions he was elected.

Musharraf, who seized power from Sharif in a bloodless coup in 1999, … Original article on : Nawaz Sharif ‘brainless’, says Musharraf.

‘Brainless’ Nawaz will ruin Pak if re-elected as PM: Musharraf

LONDON – In his first public meeting in Birmingham after announcing the creation of his All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) party, former Pakistani military ruler Pervez Musharraf called former prime minister Nawaz Sharif ‘brainless,’ and the PML-N a family party.

Noting that Nawaz had failed to deliver during his previous two terms as the country’s …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Brainless’ Nawaz will ruin Pak if re-elected as PM: Musharraf.

Rand Paul rally in Ky. boosted by 2 tea party stalwarts: his father and S.C.’s Demint

Rand Paul rally helped by 2 tea party stalwarts

ERLANGER, Ky. – U.S. Senate hopeful Rand Paul marshaled the political firepower of two tea party stalwarts, including his congressman father, at a rally Saturday in northern Kentucky’s GOP stronghold.
It was the first joint appearance by Paul and his father, former Republican presidential candidate and Texas U.S. …. Original source  : Rand Paul rally in Ky. boosted by 2 tea party stalwarts: his father and S.C.’s Demint.

Democratic NY Gov. David Paterson says tea party makes important contributions to democracy

Democratic NY governor praises tea party movement

NEW YORK – New York Gov. David Paterson, unlike many of his Democratic colleagues, says the tea party movement is a good thing.
Paterson says most tea party activists reject the extremist views of some members and that the movement as a whole is making important contributions to democracy.
Although Paterson …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Democratic NY Gov. David Paterson says tea party makes important contributions to democracy.

Davis throws for 3 TDs, Buffalo barely beats Bowling Green 28-26 despite big statistical edge

Buffalo holds off Bowling Green rally 28-26

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – Jerry Davis threw for three touchdowns and Buffalo withstood a late comeback to edge Bowling Green 28-26 on Saturday in both teams’ Mid-American Conference opener.
Davis hit Marcus Rivers with a 7-yard TD pass and Terrell Jackson for a 9-yarder to give the Bulls (2-3, 1-0) … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Davis throws for 3 TDs, Buffalo barely beats Bowling Green 28-26 despite big statistical edge.

Thousands join in left-leaning rally in Washington

WASHINGTON – Thousands of civil rights, environmental and peace activists and union members gathered in Washington Saturday in what was seen as a show of force from the political left one month before congressional elections.

The protest under the title “One Nation Working Together” was aimed at encouraging enthusiasm for civil rights issues, and featured … Read more »».

Longtime California political consultant Joe Shumate dies at age 69

Longtime California political consultant dies

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Longtime California political consultant Joe Shumate has died at the age of 69.
State Republican Party Chairman Ron Nehring says Shumate was found dead in his Sacramento apartment Friday. The cause of death hasn’t been determined, but Nehring says no foul play is suspected.
Shumate, a senior adviser to U.S. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Longtime California political consultant Joe Shumate dies at age 69.

Quotes from Whitman, Brown on housekeeper flap

Quotes from Whitman, Brown on housekeeper flap

Much of Saturday’s gubernatorial debate between Republican Meg Whitman and Democrat Jerry Brown centered on this week’s controversy over Whitman’s acknowledgment that she had an illegal immigrant housekeeper on the payroll for nine years and, according to her, didn’t know it. She said she fired the housekeeper in June … Read : Quotes from Whitman, Brown on housekeeper flap.

Musharraf rallies supporters in Britain

LONDON – Former Pakistani president Pervez Musharraf rallied supporters Saturday in the British city of Birmingham, saying he wants to end his London exile and begin efforts to return to power in Pakistan, the BBC reported.

Musharraf, who ruled the country for nine years, Friday launched a new political party, the All Pakistan Muslim League, …. Source  : Musharraf rallies supporters in Britain.

Senior Palestinians close ranks behind Abbas: No peace talks without Israeli settlement freeze

Palestinians back Abbas on settlement slowdown

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Dozens of senior Palestinians on Saturday backed President Mahmoud Abbas’ refusal to negotiate with Israel as long as it builds in West Bank settlements, dealing a new setback to troubled U.S. efforts to salvage peace talks.
Israel refuses to extend a 10-month-old curb on settlement construction, while …. Original source  : Senior Palestinians close ranks behind Abbas: No peace talks without Israeli settlement freeze.

Rally backed by labor, civil rights group lends support for Democrats as election nears

DC rally shows support for struggling Democrats

WASHINGTON – Tapping into anger as the tea party movement has done, a coalition of progressive and civil rights groups marched by the thousands Saturday on the Lincoln Memorial and pledged to support Democrats struggling to keep power on Capitol Hill.
“We are together. This march is about the power …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rally backed by labor, civil rights group lends support for Democrats as election nears.

GOP’s Whitman blames opponent for controversy over former housekeeper’s immigration status

GOP’s Whitman blames opponent for housekeeper flap

FRESNO, Calif. – GOP gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman accused Democratic rival Jerry Brown on Saturday of orchestrating a scandal over her former illegal immigrant housekeeper, a charge that prompted Brown to fire back and say Whitman won’t take responsibility and is not fit to be governor.
The issue dominated the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : GOP’s Whitman blames opponent for controversy over former housekeeper’s immigration status.

Israeli PM urges Abbas to keep negotiating, after Palestinians link talks to settlement freeze

Netanyahu urges Abbas not to quit peace talks

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Israel’s prime minister is urging the Palestinians not to quit peace talks, after senior Palestinian politicians linked negotiations to an Israeli settlement freeze.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made the appeal after the Palestinian leaders closed ranks behind President Mahmoud Abbas on Saturday, saying month-old peace …. Read the original article  : Israeli PM urges Abbas to keep negotiating, after Palestinians link talks to settlement freeze.

Rabri Devi to contest Bihar polls from two constituenies

PATNA – Former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi will contest the state assembly elections from two constituencies this month, her husband and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) head Lalu Prasad announced Monday.

She will contest from Raghopur in Vaishali district and Sonepur in Chapra district in the third phase of the state assembly elections, he told … Read more : Rabri Devi to contest Bihar polls from two constituenies.

BJP legislator wants women member in Jharkhand cabinet

RANCHI – Jharkhand woman legislator Maneka Sardar is advocating that her party, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), give place to a woman in the state cabinet, but Chief Minister Arjun Munda says the list has already been finalised.

“We have told our party leaders that a woman should be made minister. Women should … Read more : BJP legislator wants women member in Jharkhand cabinet.

Veteran Japanese lawmaker Ichiro Ozawa to be indicted over political funding scandal

Japan ruling party figure Ozawa to be indicted

TOKYO – A court official says veteran Japanese lawmaker and powerbroker Ichiro Ozawa will be indicted over a political funding scandal.
The official at the Tokyo District Court said Monday that judicial panel of ordinary citizens decided Ozawa should be indicted. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because … Read more »».

Ready to take ‘difficult decisions’ against NRO beneficiaries in national interest: Gilani

LAHORE – The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP)-led coalition government is ready to take “difficult decisions in the larger interest of the nation”, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said in response to a question regarding an “in-house change”.

It follows Gilani’s … Read : Ready to take ‘difficult decisions’ against NRO beneficiaries in national interest: Gilani.

Obama’s ex-chief of staff Rahm Emanuel getting reacquainted with Chicago ahead of mayoral run

Emanuel to get reacquainted with Chicago
CHICAGO – Former White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel said he plans to hit Chicago’s grocery stores, train stops, “bowling alleys and hot dog stands” as he prepares to run for mayor of the nation’s third-largest city.

Emanuel announced Sunday in a video posted on his website, ChicagoforRahm.com, that he’s …. Read the original article  : Obama’s ex-chief of staff Rahm Emanuel getting reacquainted with Chicago ahead of mayoral run.

BJP defeats Congress in Chhattisgarh by-poll

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarhs ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pulled off an impressive victory Monday in the state assembly by-election from the Bhatgaon constitueny in Surguja district, handing over one of the worst defeats to arch rival Congress in recent years.

BJP candidate Rajni Tripathi won the seat by a margin of over 35,000 votes, defeating … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP defeats Congress in Chhattisgarh by-poll.

ISI helping US on Europe plots: Envoy

WASHINGTON – Pakistan has been helping the US gather intelligence about who is plotting against various European cities with its spy agency ISI sharing information with the CIA, according to the Pakistani envoy.

There appear to be some Germans and a couple of British people who are operating out of the northern mountainous region of … Read : ISI helping US on Europe plots: Envoy.

Supreme Court opens new term Monday with Justice Kagan on the bench

New Supreme Court term starts Monday
WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court is starting its new term with a new justice, Elena Kagan, and bad news for hundreds of parties trying to get their cases heard at the nation’s highest court.

The justices are expected to start work Monday by denying many of the nearly 2,000 appeals that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Supreme Court opens new term Monday with Justice Kagan on the bench.

Obama’s ex-chief of staff Rahm Emanuel to get reacquainted with Chicago ahead of mayoral run

Emanuel begins getting reacquainted with Chicago

CHICAGO – Former White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel says he’ll hit Chicago’s grocery stores, train stops, “bowling alleys and hot dog stands” as he prepares to run for mayor of the nation’s third-largest city.
Emanuel announced Sunday in a video posted on his website that he’s preparing to run.
He’d [..] Read the original article: here.

Maoists kill three Forward Bloc activists in West Bengal

PURULIA – Three Forward Bloc activists were shot dead by armed Maoists in West Bengal’s Purulia district last night.

According to sources, about 50 armed Maoists raided Chirogora village late last night and dragged out the three activists from their houses and shot them dead.

The deceased …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists kill three Forward Bloc activists in West Bengal.

I will take difficult decisions if needed: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that he would not hesitate to take “difficult decisions” in the country’s interest.

At a meeting with a group of journalists at his home here Sunday, Gilani said: “Let me make it clear that the judiciary wants democracy in the country and its top …. Read the original article  : I will take difficult decisions if needed: Gilani.

Rabri Devi to contest Bihar polls from two seats

PATNA – Former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi will contest the state assembly elections from two constituencies this month, her husband and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) head Lalu Prasad announced Monday.

She will contest from Raghopur and Sohanpur in the third phase of state assembly elections, he told reporters here.
The RJD also released the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rabri Devi to contest Bihar polls from two seats.

Former mayor of Moscow says he will form his own political movement

Ex-mayor of Moscow to form political movement

MOSCOW – The former mayor of Moscow who was fired by Russia’s president said in an interview published Monday that he plans to form his own political movement.
Yuri Luzhkov, who was dismissed by President Dmitry Medvedev last week after 18 years in office, told the weekly New Times that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former mayor of Moscow says he will form his own political movement.

Brazil’s Rousseff faces veteran centrist in presidential runoff after failing to get majority

Brazil goes to runoff after Rousseff falls short

SAO PAULO – Ruling-party candidate Dilma Rousseff, who is trying to become Brazil’s first female leader, fell short of getting a majority of votes in presidential elections and now faces a runoff in four weeks against an experienced, centrist rival.
Rousseff – popular President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Moderate leftist leads in Lima mayoral race, would be first female ever in post

Lima to have first female mayor ever
LIMA, Peru – A moderate leftist looked Sunday night to be headed by a narrow margin to becoming Lima’s first elected female mayor.

A victory by Susana Villaran would give the left control of Peru’s coastal capital – with 7 million people home to one in three of the Andean …. Read the original article  : here.

Lula’s favourite faces runoff for Brazil presidency

BRASILIA – Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s favoured successor, Dilma Rousseff of the workers’ party, fell short of an expected absolute majority in Sunday’s presidential elections.

She will will face a runoff against social democrat Jose Serra Oct 31.
The centre-left Rousseff, 62, a former guerrilla fighter and candidate of Lula’s Workers’ Party …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Lula’s favourite faces runoff for Brazil presidency.

Paraguayan president hospitalised

Asuncion (Paraguay), Oct 4 (IANS/EFE) Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo, who has lymphatic cancer, was urgently transported from capital city Asuncion to a hospital in Brazil, after doctors detected a blood clot in a vein near his heart, officials said.

The health of the 59-year-old Lugo has, however, improved.
He “woke up without any problems, in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Former Fiji leader bailed on emergency charge

WELLINGTON – Former Fiji prime minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who is of Indian origin, was granted bail when he appeared in court Monday after being arrested by the country’s military regime and charged with breaching public emergency regulations which bar public meetings, according to reports from the capital Suva.

Chaudhry, who was ousted in a revolt … Original article on : Former Fiji leader bailed on emergency charge.

APNewsBreak: House Judiciary Chairman Conyers’ driver’s license suspended when check bounces

APNewsBreak: Conyers temporarily loses license

DETROIT – Rep. John Conyers, the powerful chairman of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, had his driver’s license suspended for a month this summer when a check he used to pay the renewal fee bounced, according to Michigan driving records obtained by The Associated Press.
The 81-year-old Detroit Democrat tried to renew … Read more >>>.

Brazil’s leading presidential candidate Rousseff is forced into runoff vote against centrist

Brazil’s Rousseff facing runoff presidential vote

SAO PAULO – A former Marxist guerrilla chosen by Brazil’s beloved leader to succeed him will face a centrist rival in a presidential runoff after failing to get enough votes to win Sunday’s election outright, according to official results.
Dilma Rousseff, a 62-year-old career bureaucrat trying to become Brazil’s first female … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brazil’s leading presidential candidate Rousseff is forced into runoff vote against centrist.

Jharkhand’s first panchayat polls to start next month

RANCHI – Jharkhand is all set to hold its first panchayat elections in November and December, an official said Tuesday. The last such polls in the areas took place in 1979 when Jharkhand was part of the undivided Bihar.

The Jharkhand Election Commission sent details of the probable dates of elections to the state government …. Read the original article  : Jharkhand’s first panchayat polls to start next month.

He’s not on the ballot in NM governor’s race, but GOP makes Richardson a top campaign issue

Richardson’s shadow looms in hard-fought NM race

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – In a historic race where New Mexico will elect its first female governor, the outcome could hinge on voter discontent with a man not even on the ballot: Gov. Bill Richardson.
The governor’s popularity has plunged amid corruption investigations as he nears the end of his second …. Original article  : He’s not on the ballot in NM governor’s race, but GOP makes Richardson a top campaign issue.

Singhvi likely to face disciplinary action

NEW DELHI – Congress spokesperson and lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi is likely to face disciplinary action for defending in the Kerala High Court a lottery distributor accused of irregularities, a top party leader said here Tuesday.

“According to our information, the high command will take disciplinary action against Singhvi to save at least its … Read more >>>.

Hong Kong judge says transgender woman can’t marry man, turning away challenge to local law

Hong Kong judge: Transgender woman can’t marry man

HONG KONG – A transgender woman lost a legal challenge Tuesday against Hong Kong marriage rules that prevent her from marrying her boyfriend.
The plaintiff underwent sex change surgery from man to woman in 2008 and obtained identification documents listing her new gender. But Hong Kong’s Marriage Registry only …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hong Kong judge says transgender woman can’t marry man, turning away challenge to local law.

North Korea’s heir apparent undergoes plastic surgery

LONDON – Heir to North Korean regime Kim Jong-un has reportedly undergone plastic surgery so that he closely resembles his grandfather, a media report said Tuesday.

The speculation began in South Korea after the release last week of the first official photographs of the 27-year-old son of Kim Jong-il, telegraph.co.uk reported.
The images … Read more »».

Election will be make-or-mar for Bihar: Nitish Kumar

PATNA – Chief Minister Nitish Kumar says the upcoming assembly polls will be ‘make-or-mar’ for Bihar as people would either choose the path of development initiated by his government or go back to the politics of caste and religion.

“I think it is going to be a make-or-mar election for the state. For the first …. Source article  : Election will be make-or-mar for Bihar: Nitish Kumar.

In a state with a tradition of corruption, NJ residents say no big deal to 3 trials in a day

3 corruption trials in a day? NJ says no big deal

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – In most places, three unrelated, high-profile political corruption trials on the same day would be pretty big news.
New Jersey is not most places.
As politicians from north to south sat in courtrooms Monday facing accusations of lining their own pockets, stealing or …. Source  : In a state with a tradition of corruption, NJ residents say no big deal to 3 trials in a day.

Maoist MP suspended for knife brawl ahead of PM poll

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s opposition Maoist party suspended a legislator Tuesday amidst reports that he was involved in a knifing brawl ahead of a 10th round of prime ministerial election that is doomed to be futile.

Narendra Bahadur Kunwar, Maoist MP from Baitadi district in farwest Nepal, was suspended from party membership after he was alleged …. Read the original article  : Maoist MP suspended for knife brawl ahead of PM poll.

Graphic video of man Tasered in Australia sparks debate over the use of the stun guns

Graphic Tasering video in Australia ignites debate

SYDNEY – Graphic video of police repeatedly stunning an unarmed man with a Taser has helped restart a debate about whether stun guns are being overused by authorities in Australia.
Western Australia state police said the incident was totally unacceptable, and not typical of Taser use by the force. State …. Read the original article  : Graphic video of man Tasered in Australia sparks debate over the use of the stun guns.

Musharraf should be tried, says provincial assembly in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistani president Pervez Musharraf should not only be tried for violating the constitution, but also for getting Baloch leader Akbar Bugti killed and for staging the Lal Masjid massacre, Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assembly has demanded.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s Javed Abbasi accused Musharraf of conspiring against democracy in Pakistan while being based in …. Original article  : Musharraf should be tried, says provincial assembly in Pakistan.

New York’s ‘Naked Cowboy’ to contest presidential election

NEW YORK – New York’s popular ‘Naked Cowboy’ Robert John Burck who plays the guitar and wears nothing more than his boots, hat and briefs to entertain people in Times Square has announced his plans to contest the 2012 US presidential election, a media report said.

Burck is a well-known attraction in the Times … Original source on Gaea Times at : New York’s ‘Naked Cowboy’ to contest presidential election.

Geert Wilders Taken to Trial on Charges of his Anti-Islam Speech

AMSTERDAM (GaeaTimes.com) — Dutch MP Geert Wilders moved to the court today in Netherlands on charges of sparking hatred and discrimination against the Muslims. He is accused of making a film called ‘Fitna‘ that is totally anti-muslim and the film showed some links of Quran with terrorists.
Geert Wilders open use of abusing remarks against the … Read more >>>.

Former Colorado Govs. Owens, Lamm question gubernatorial candidates on ability to lead state

2 former Colo. govs quiz gubernatorial candidates

GLENDALE, Colo. – Two former Colorado governors gave the state’s gubernatorial candidates a public job interview Monday, grilling the three hopefuls on their ability to lead the state before coming out with their picks for the position.
Former Govs. Bill Owens and Dick Lamm quizzed Democrat John Hickenlooper, Republican candidate … Read more : Former Colorado Govs. Owens, Lamm question gubernatorial candidates on ability to lead state.

Taiwanese defense official says Chinese threat to island is growing, media reports say

Taiwan official says China threat growing: reports

TAIPEI, Taiwan – A senior Taiwanese official has told a defense forum in the United States that despite rapidly warming commercial relations with Taipei, China’s military threat against the island is growing, Taiwanese media reported Tuesday.
The reports call into question the efficacy of China’s efforts to use its huge …. Original source  : Taiwanese defense official says Chinese threat to island is growing, media reports say.

Chinese, Japanese hold highest-level meeting since dispute broke out over islands

Chinese, Japanese leaders meet in Europe amid spat

BEIJING – The Chinese and Japanese prime ministers held an impromptu meeting in a hallway at a conference in Europe, in the highest-level contact between the countries since a bitter territorial dispute erupted a month ago, both governments confirmed Tuesday.
Relations between the Asian neighbors – the world’s second- … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chinese, Japanese hold highest-level meeting since dispute broke out over islands.

Former Colorado governors Owens, Lamm quiz gubernatorial candidates

Former Colorado governors quiz candidates
GLENDALE, Colo. – Two former Colorado governors have given their possible replacements a public job interview and have come out with their recommendations after questioning all three about their ability to lead the state.

Former Govs. Bill Owens and Dick Lamm quizzed Democrat John Hickenlooper, Republican candidate Dan Maes and American Constitution …. Read the original article  : Former Colorado governors Owens, Lamm quiz gubernatorial candidates.

Del. Senate candidate O’Donnell ad: ‘I’m not a witch’ and ‘I’m you’; starts airing Tuesday

Del. Senate candidate O’Donnell: ‘I’m not a witch’

DOVER, Del. – Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell is trying to assure Delaware voters: “I’m not a witch.”
The Republican tea-party-backed candidate in her first TV ad since winning the primary pokes fun at comments she made during a 1999 taping of a late-night talk show that she dabbled in …. Read the original article  : Del. Senate candidate O’Donnell ad: ‘I’m not a witch’ and ‘I’m you’; starts airing Tuesday.

NJ Gov. Christie rallies GOP at fundraiser in Iowa, key destination for presidential hopefuls

NJ governor rallies fellow Republicans in Iowa

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie rallied conservative activists in Iowa late Monday, saying his success in a Democratic state shows his tough-talking, smaller government message resonates with all voters.
Fanning speculation that he’s considering a 2012 presidential bid, the Republican spoke to about 700 people … Original article on : NJ Gov. Christie rallies GOP at fundraiser in Iowa, key destination for presidential hopefuls.

Former New York governor Spitzer, Pulitzer winner Parker promise TV talk show with ideas

Parker, Spitzer aim for ideological center on TV

NEW YORK – Former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer promised a TV show with ideas in his prime-time CNN debut with partner Kathleen Parker, and they delivered lots of them.
The premiere of “Parker/Spitzer” featured former Spitzer prosecution target Henry Blodget, “The Social Network” writer Aaron Sorkin, conservative blogger …. Source article  : Former New York governor Spitzer, Pulitzer winner Parker promise TV talk show with ideas.

Mexico, 10 other countries want to voice opinions to appeals court on Ariz. immigration law

11 countries seek voice in AZ immigration appeal

PHOENIX – Mexico and 10 other Latin American countries want a federal appeals court to consider their viewpoints in Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer’s appeal of a ruling that put parts of her state’s new immigration law on hold.
The countries are asking the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals … Original article on : Mexico, 10 other countries want to voice opinions to appeals court on Ariz. immigration law.

It’s go-for-broke time in Afghanistan on 9th anniversary of the war

It’s go-for-broke time on 9th anniversary of war

KABUL, Afghanistan – The war in Afghanistan enters its 10th year Thursday with key players hedging their bets, uncertain whether the Obama administration is prepared to stay for the long haul, move quickly to exit an increasingly unpopular conflict, or something in between.
Fearing that his Western allies may …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Yeddyurappa sacks four Independents as ministers

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa Wednesday sacked four ministers — all Independent legislators — for withdrawing support to the first Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in southern India.

I have recommended to Governor H.R. Bhardwaj to drop Agriculture Marketing and Small Scale Industries Minister Shivaraj S. Tangadagi, Textile and Sericulture Minister Venkataramanappa, … Read more »».

US diplomat: Healthy US-Japan alliance vital amid Asia’s changing security dynamics

US diplomat: US-Japan pact vital in changing Asia

TOKYO – The top U.S. diplomat for East Asia said Wednesday that Washington and Tokyo need to make sure their security alliance is in good working order to cope with rapid changes in Asia.
U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell also praised Prime Minister Naoto Kan for demonstrating … Original source on Gaea Times at : US diplomat: Healthy US-Japan alliance vital amid Asia’s changing security dynamics.

Nitish Kumar to launch campaign Friday

PATNA – Hoping to return to power in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to launch his election campaign for the state assembly elections Friday, said to be an auspicious day for Hindus.

The campaign will start with the slogan ‘Phir Ek Baar, Nitish Kumar’ (Once again, Nitish Kumar), Janata Dal-United (JD-U) leaders said.
…. Source  : Nitish Kumar to launch campaign Friday.

Dutch court rejects exiled separatists’ demand to have Indonesian president arrested

Bid to have Indonesian president arrested fails

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – A Dutch court Wednesday rejected a separatist group’s bid to have Indonesia’s president arrested for alleged human rights violations during a state visit to the Netherlands.
The Hague District Court decision means the Dutch government will not be ordered to arrest Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono if he … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dutch court rejects exiled separatists’ demand to have Indonesian president arrested.

Defense chiefs from the US and China to meet next week amid a thaw in relations

US, China defense chiefs to meet amid thaw in ties

BEIJING – China’s defense minister will meet his U.S. counterpart at an international gathering in Vietnam next week as the two nations move to end an eight-month freeze on military exchanges, state media said Wednesday.
Gen. Liang Guanglie will meet Defense Secretary Robert Gates at a meeting …. Read the original article  : here.

Yemen official says rocket hits near British embassy car, wounding diplomat and 3 bystanders

Yemen: Rocket attack targets British embassy car

SAN’A, Yemen – A rocket attack on Wednesday damaged a British diplomatic car in the capital San’a, wounding three bystanders and an embassy staffer, a Yemeni and British officials said.
The attack comes a day after a top U.S. official was visiting the country to discuss the security situation and …. Read the original article  : Yemen official says rocket hits near British embassy car, wounding diplomat and 3 bystanders.

New Zealand TV host criticised for ridiculing Sheila Dikshit

SYDNEY – A New Zealand TV station which had recently suspended one of its show hosts for a racial slur on the country’s governor-general, has come in for fresh trouble after it featured a clip on its website ridiculing the name of Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.

TVNZ has received at least four complaints about … Original article on : New Zealand TV host criticised for ridiculing Sheila Dikshit.

Supreme Court weighs whether right to free speech covers protests at soldiers’ funerals

High court to hear military funeral protest case

WASHINGTON – The father of a Marine killed in Iraq is asking the Supreme Court to reinstate a $5 million verdict against members of a fundamentalist church who picketed his son’s funeral with signs like “Thank God for Dead Soldiers” and “God Hates the USA.”
The court is hearing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Supreme Court weighs whether right to free speech covers protests at soldiers’ funerals.

POLIITCAL INSIDER: Ex-football coach Holtz seeks campaign cash for GOP

POLITICAL INSIDER: Lou Holtz pitches GOP
WASHINGTON – Former football coach Lou Holtz is urging support – with votes and with money – for Republicans running for Congress.

In a fundraising e-mail sent Tuesday on behalf of the National Republican Congressional Committee, Holtz said GOP leaders in the House are well positioned to “fire Nancy Pelosi” in …. Original source  : POLIITCAL INSIDER: Ex-football coach Holtz seeks campaign cash for GOP.

Yemen official says mortar round targets British diplomatic motorcade, wounding 3 bystanders

Yemen: Mortar round lands near British motorcade

SAN’A, Yemen – A Yemeni security official says a mortar round exploded near a British diplomatic motorcade not far from its embassy in the capital San’a.
The official said Wednesday that at least three bystanders were wounded in the blast but he did not know of any British casualties. He …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Yemen official says mortar round targets British diplomatic motorcade, wounding 3 bystanders.

BJP to raise issue of misuse of CBI in Parliament: Sushma Swaraj

AHMEDABAD – Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj has said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would raise the issue of the alleged misuse of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by the Congress during the winter session of Parliament.

Addressing local functionaries of her party here on Tuesday, Swaraj said: “We …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

My responsibility lies with the Youth Congress: Rahul Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi reiterated Wednesday that his primary responsibility was to revive the Youth Congress and get the youth to join politics.

I have responsibility of the Youth Congress and I am doing that, Gandhi told reporters at a press conference here.
He added that his main aim was to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Women break male stranglehold over Pakistan politics

ISLAMABAD – Women are now making a mark in Pakistan’s male-dominated political arena as seats have been reserved for them and candidates have to hold a graduation degree to contest polls.

There is reservation for women in the federal parliament as well as 33 percent quota for women in all legislative assemblies.
The firebrand Pakistan … Read more »»».

Pakistan customs detains 152 NATO supply vehicles

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Customs officials have detained 152 NATO trailers and oil tankers at the Chaman border crossing carrying fuel and other supplies for coalition forces in Afghanistan, a media report said Wednesday.

Some tampering was found in NATO supplies documents presented at a Customs checkpoint in Chaman for clearance, sources told Dawn.
…. Read the original article  : here.

Obama’s India visit: No major game changer expected

WASHINGTON – The first ever visit by President Barack Obama to India will be marked by its ordinariness instead of it extraordinariness, if one goes by what US officials say. There are no big ticket items on the agenda and certainly nothing comparable to the civilian nuclear deal signed during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama’s India visit: No major game changer expected.

Former Fiji PM Chaudhry pleads not guilty to defying military regime’s ‘laws’

SUVA – Former Fiji Prime Minister Mahendra Pal Chaudhry has pleaded not guilty to holding an illegal meeting in defiance of laws imposed by the military regime.

Chaudhry and five others, Sanjeet Maharaj, Ganga Dharan, Gajraj Singh, Abhay Raj Singh and Shammi Kapoor, reportedly appeared in Rakiraki Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday charged with unlawful assembly under … Read more »»».

Washington Post reports that officials of Taliban and Afghan govt in talks aimed at ending war

Report: Taliban, Afghan govt in talks to end war

WASHINGTON – Secret talks aimed at ending the war in Afghanistan have begun between representatives of the Taliban and the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, The Washington Post reported on its website Tuesday night.
Afghan and Arab sources cited by the Post said they believe for the …. Original source  : Washington Post reports that officials of Taliban and Afghan govt in talks aimed at ending war.

San Francisco officials approve nonbinding term sheet in bid to host America’s Cup

San Francisco approves America’s Cup term sheet

San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors voted 9-2 on Tuesday to approve a nonbinding term sheet for hosting the 34th America’s Cup in 2013.
The vote – with Chris Daly and John Avalos dissenting – is a significant step in the bid to host sailing’s marquee regatta on San Francisco Bay.
San … Original source on Gaea Times at : San Francisco officials approve nonbinding term sheet in bid to host America’s Cup.

Connecticut governor candidates Foley, Malloy spar over death penalty during live TV debate

Conn. governor candidates spar over death penalty

HARTFORD, Conn. – The two major-party nominees for Connecticut governor are sparring over the death penalty and whether it would apply to a man convicted of the home invasion killings of a woman and her two daughters.
Lawmakers recently voted to abolish the state’s death penalty. But Republican Gov. M. …. Original source  : Connecticut governor candidates Foley, Malloy spar over death penalty during live TV debate.

Omar’s speech triggers ruckus in house, BJP member hurt

SRINAGAR – A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator and a policeman were injured Thursday as chaos erupted in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly with opposition members disrupting proceedings over Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s speech a day earlier.

A day after Abdullah said in the assembly that “the state has acceded through an agreement to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Omar’s speech triggers ruckus in house, BJP member hurt.

Republican allies make Colorado a top target for midterm gains

GOP allies make Colo. a top target
DENVER – This election season has brought a torrent of campaign spending from outside interest groups, and nowhere is the spending on better display than in Colorado.

Interest groups have been flooding Colorado with a level of advertising that goes well beyond the typical election year bombardment. Colorado has become … Read more >>.

Notification issued for fourth phase of Bihar polls

PATNA – The notification for the fourth of the six phases of the Bihar state assembly elections was issued Thursday.

In the fourth round due Nov 1, polling will be held in 42 of the 243 assembly constituencies.
Bihar will elect the 243-member assembly in staggered polling that begins Oct 21 and ends Nov …. Original article  : Notification issued for fourth phase of Bihar polls.

Radical Islam has ‘outspent, outmanoeuvred, out-strategised’ democracies: Blair

NEW YORK – Radical Islamist extremists have “outspent, outmanoeuvred and out-strategised” democracies around the world, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has claimed.

Speaking in New York to thinktank, the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, Blair said that warnings of 26/11 Mumbai-style terror plots against Europe should remind people that they remained under threat.

He said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Radical Islam has ‘outspent, outmanoeuvred, out-strategised’ democracies: Blair.

Chaos in J-K Assembly over Omar Abdullah’s speech

NEW DELHI – There was uproar in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Thursday after the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and National Panthers Party MLAs tried to storm into the well of the House over a speech delivered by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on the prevailing law and order situation in Kashmir.

Omar Abdullah had … Original article on : Chaos in J-K Assembly over Omar Abdullah’s speech.

“It’s better to leave Musharraf to himself”: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – While most Pakistani politicians want to see former military ruler Pervez Musharraf behind the bars on his return to the country, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has taken an entirely different stand by advising legislators to leave the former president “to himself.”

“I have told him (the opposition leader) privately, and say it again, …. Read the original article  : “It’s better to leave Musharraf to himself”: Gilani.

US envoy apologises to Pakistan for helicopter raid

ISLAMABAD – US Ambassador to Pakistan Anne W. Patterson has formally extended an apology to Islamabad for a helicopter raid on a security check post in the country that killed three personnel.

A NATO helicopter fired gunshots at the check post of the paramilitary Frontier Scouts Sep 30 alongside the Afghan border.
At least three …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US envoy apologises to Pakistan for helicopter raid.

Will tide over political crisis, says Yeddyurappa

KANNUR – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, whose government is fighting for survival, Thursday said the crisis would be soon over and he would win the confidence in the legislative house.

“I am sure that we will be able to bring back those legislators who are now against us. We will win the confidence … Read more »»».

Afghan peace council holds inaugural session

Afghan peace council holds inaugural session

KABUL, Afghanistan – Calling the meeting a “source of hope” for the Afghan people, President Hamid Karzai on Thursday hosted the inaugural session of a new peace council set up to guide efforts to reconcile with the Taliban and other insurgent groups.
Karzai has long called on insurgents to renounce violence, … Read : Afghan peace council holds inaugural session.

Stumping for Democrats, Obama warns party base to avoid ’sulking’

Obama to campaign in Maryland, Illinois
WASHINGTON – Campaigning for Democrats in a string of blue states, President Barack Obama is warning his party’s rank-and-file of the dangers of “sulking and sitting back.”

The day after raising cash for Democrats in New Jersey, Obama is headed Thursday to a rally for Gov. Martin O’Malley in Maryland and … Read more >>>.

POLITICAL INSIDER: Conservative family group goes after 5 Democrats in ads

POLITICAL INSIDER: Conservative group airs ads

WASHINGTON – A conservative organization is running ads against five incumbent House Democrats, saying voters need to stop them from expanding the size of government.
Reps. Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona, Betsy Markey of Colorado, Carol Shea-Porter of New Hampshire, John Boccieri of Ohio and Tom Perriello of Virginia are the Family …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : POLITICAL INSIDER: Conservative family group goes after 5 Democrats in ads.

Dengue and swine flu! Bihar set for virulent poll campaign

PATNA – Dengue vs swine flu. No, that’s not a question on which is the more threatening disease but perhaps the choice facing the Bihar voter with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad comparing the Congress to the aedes mosquito that causes dengue and the latter retorting that he was like the swine flu …. Source  : Dengue and swine flu! Bihar set for virulent poll campaign.

AP sources: US, Palestinian and Israeli officials say impasse over housing might be broken

AP sources: All hopeful Mideast talks can go on

WASHINGTON – U.S., Israeli and Palestinian officials are hopeful they can break an impasse that has threatened to kill new U.S.-brokered Mideast peace talks before they really begin.
A U.S. official close to the negotiations said Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seems likely to cut a … Read more : AP sources: US, Palestinian and Israeli officials say impasse over housing might be broken.

Bihar polls: Notification for fourth phase issued

PATNA – The notification for the fourth phase of the six-phased State Assembly elections in Bihar was issued here today.

Forty-two out of 243 Assembly constituencies will go to polls in this phase on November 1.

Of the 42 constituencies, polling will be held between 7 am and 3 pm …. Original source  : Bihar polls: Notification for fourth phase issued.

Ruckus over Omar speech in assembly, BJP MLA injured

SRINAGAR – There was chaos in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly Thursday as opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Panthers Party legislators tore papers and snatched mikes to protest Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s speech a day earlier.

The legislators, who gathered near the speaker’s podium, were marshalled out of the house. In the process, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ruckus over Omar speech in assembly, BJP MLA injured.

Picture of actor as Gandhi in government office kicks up row

HYDERABAD – A picture of film actor Dilip Prabhavalkar as Mahatma Gandhi at a local government office in Warangal district of Andhra Pradesh has kicked up a row with the opposition seeking an apology for the alleged insult to father of the nation.

A huge picture showing “Mahatma Gandhi” behind a spinning wheel has … Read more >>>.

Karnataka crisis: Venkaiah Naidu to help resolve issues

BANGALORE – In view of the ongoing fiasco in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party has asked senior leader Venkaiah Naidu to intervene. He has been rushed to Bangalore to help resolve the issue within the state government.

Naidu is expected to mediate between Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa and the rebellious MLAs, who have … Original source on Gaea Times at : Karnataka crisis: Venkaiah Naidu to help resolve issues.

12 dissident Karnataka BJP legislators in Mumbai, may go to Goa

MUMBAI – A group of 12 dissident legislators from Karnataka’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including four ministers, arrived here from Kerala early Thursday and are holed up at Mumbai Airport, party sources said.

The dozen strong group of BJP legislators had planned to travel to Shirdi in Maharashtra Thursday morning, but owing to security … Read more »».

Punjab chief minister injured after fall in bathroom

CHANDIGARH – Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal was taken to a hospital here Thursday morning after he fell in the bathroom of his official residence and sustained minor injuries on the face, including near the eye.

Badal, 82, is being kept under observation by doctors of the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and … Read more : Punjab chief minister injured after fall in bathroom.

NYC seeks to ban food stamp recipients from spending them on soda, other sugary drinks

NY seeks to ban sugary drinks from food stamp buys

NEW YORK – New Yorkers on food stamps would not be allowed to spend them on sugar-sweetened drinks under an obesity-fighting proposal being floated by Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Gov. David Paterson.
Bloomberg and Paterson planned to announce Thursday that they are seeking permission from the U.S. …. Read the original article  : NYC seeks to ban food stamp recipients from spending them on soda, other sugary drinks.

Son denied poll ticket, miffed Bihar BJP chief resigns

PATNA – The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Bihar unit president C.P. Thakur Friday resigned from the party post after his son was denied a ticket to contest the upcoming state assembly elections. His supporters too launched protests.

Thakur told reporters here that he has sent in his resignation to BJP national president Nitin …. Read the original article  : Son denied poll ticket, miffed Bihar BJP chief resigns.

US government touting new National Guard mission in Arizona despite criticism

Feds touting National Guard mission in Arizona

TUCSON, Ariz. – Government officials are showing off a site where National Guard troops have been deployed near the Mexican border, despite criticism that they will do nothing to stem the tide of illegal immigration.
The first troops began their mission on Aug. 30, and no member of the media …. Read the original article  : US government touting new National Guard mission in Arizona despite criticism.

Munda expands cabinet, inducts nine ministers

RANCHI – Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda Friday expanded his cabinet by inducting nine more ministers nearly a month after he assumed office.

The new ministers were administered oath of office and secrecy by Governor M.O.H. Farook at Raj Bhavan at 11.25 a.m., taking the total strength of the cabinet to 12.
The nine Ministers … Read more : Munda expands cabinet, inducts nine ministers.

Son denied poll ticket, Bihar BJP chief resigns

PATNA – The Bharatiya Janata Party’S (BJP) Bihar unit president C.P. Thakur Friday resigned from the party post after his son was denied a ticket to contest the upcoming state assembly elections.

Thakur told reporters here that he has sent in his resignation to BJP national president Nitin Gadkari.
“I have resigned from the party …. Read the original article  : here.

Chinese, Afghan activists favorites for Nobel Peace Prize

Chinese, Afghan activists favorites for Nobel

OSLO, Norway – A Chinese dissident and human rights activists from Afghanistan and Russia are possible candidates for the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize, announced on Friday.
Liu Xiaobo, who was sentenced in China last Christmas Day to 11 years in prison for subversion, has received by far the most attention in …. Source  : Chinese, Afghan activists favorites for Nobel Peace Prize.

45,000 troopers to be deployed for Bihar polls

PATNA – With the fear of Maoist violence and trouble by criminal gangs looming large, about 45,000 paramilitary troopers will be deployed to ensure that the Bihar elections beginning Oct 21 proceed peacefully, an official said Friday.

“There will be heavy deployment of central paramilitary forces for free, fair and peaceful polls,” a senior … Read more »»».

Omar’s remarks: Protest sit-in staged outside assembly

SRINAGAR – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Panthers Party legislators Friday staged a sit-in outside the Jammu and Kashmir assembly to protest the comments by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the house two days ago.

The chief minister had said that the state of Jammu and Kashmir had acceded to India through an agreement, not … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Omar’s remarks: Protest sit-in staged outside assembly.

Increased patrols in Pakistan’s Karachi to prevent further violence in after shrine attack

Security raised after Pakistan Sufi shrine attack

KARACHI, Pakistan – The streets of Pakistan’s largest city were mostly quiet Friday as police stepped up patrols to prevent more violence after twin suicide attacks at a Sufi shrine sparked angry mobs to rampage through the southern Pakistani city.
Eight people were killed and 65 injured in the bombings …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Increased patrols in Pakistan’s Karachi to prevent further violence in after shrine attack.

Nepal’s former princesses turn over a new leaf

KATHMANDU – Two years after Nepal’s parliament officially declared the world’s only Hindu kingdom a secular republic, Nepal’s former princesses will Friday embrace their new status as law-abiding commoners with the inauguration of a charitable trust pledged to social service.

Nepal’s last king Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah is inaugurating the Himani Trust, a non-profit charitable … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal’s former princesses turn over a new leaf.

Folk singer to popularise right to vote in Bihar

PATNA – Popular Bihar folk singer Sharda Sinha has been roped in by the Election Commission to spread awareness about the right to vote during the upcoming Bihar assembly elections.

Sharda Sinha has been appealing to voters on television in five different languages – Hindi, Bhojpuri, Magahi, Maithali and Angika – to exercise their voting …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nobel literature prize a platform for Vargas Llosa’s combative political activism

Nobel a platform for outspoken Vargas Llosa

CARACAS, Venezuela – The Nobel Prize in literature brings a long-awaited accolade to Peruvian author Mario Vargas Llosa, and also a new platform for him to assail leftist leaders Hugo Chavez of Venezuela and Fidel Castro of Cuba.
The 74-year-old writer has been a combative political activist in denouncing what … Read more : Nobel literature prize a platform for Vargas Llosa’s combative political activism.

Tell me, where there is no corruption: Pakistani minister

ISLAMABAD – A minister has made a candid admission in Pakistan’s National Assembly — coruption is everywhere, “the question is where it is not.”

Federal Minister for Railways Ghulam Ahmad Bilour said: I dont say that there is no corruption in my ministry, but the question is where it is not.”
Bilour was replying to … Read more »»».

Karnataka crisis: Fresh talks with dissidents MLAs in Goa

PANAJI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will on Friday hold fresh talks with dissident Karnataka MLAs to resolve the issue within the state government.

“I will be meeting with them (dissidents). There are some issues which would be discussed and settled,” said Goa’s senior BJP leader and … Read more »».

Musharraf has right to be in politics: Zardari

ISLAMABAD – Former military ruler Pervez Musharraf has the right to take part in politics, said Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari.

Zardari said that Musharraf will have to follow the course we have taken in our political struggle riddled with sacrifices, Dawn reported Friday.
The president told mediapersons in Karachi Thursday that there was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Musharraf has right to be in politics: Zardari.

Parrikar meets with rebel BJP legislators

PANAJI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manohar Parrikar Friday began a fresh round of talks with dissident Karnataka legislators, who have been camping at a five star resort here after differences with Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa.

The meeting began at 9.30 a.m.
“There are some issues which we will discuss and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Parrikar meets with rebel BJP legislators.

Republican Sandoval and Democrat Reid spar over budget in Vegas gubernatorial debate

Sandoval and Reid fight over budget in Vegas

LAS VEGAS – Down in the polls, Democrat Rory Reid could always boast that at least he was the only Nevada gubernatorial candidate with a plan to fix the state’s $3 billion budget gap.
Rival Republican Brian Sandoval set out to destroy that claim in the second debate of … Read : Republican Sandoval and Democrat Reid spar over budget in Vegas gubernatorial debate.

Stimulus, Social Security dominate 3rd Colorado Senate debate

Stimulus, Social Security dominate Colorado debate

PUEBLO, Colo. – Republican Senate candidate Ken Buck is chastising his own party for scaring seniors with messages about cuts to Medicare.
In the third Colorado Senate debate, Buck criticized GOP allies for campaigning against the health care overhaul in part by highlighting some $500 billion in Medicare cuts over the … Read more >>.

Vice President Biden praises Mo. Senate candidate Carnahan, helps raise $100K at fundraiser

Biden helps US Senate candidate raise $100K in Mo.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Vice President Joe Biden praised Missouri Democrat Robin Carnahan on Thursday as a gritty U.S. Senate candidate unlikely to buckle to others, and helped her raise an estimated $100,000 in the hometown of her Republican rival.
The fundraiser marked the second time in three months … Read : Vice President Biden praises Mo. Senate candidate Carnahan, helps raise $100K at fundraiser.

Biden to join Obama in Philly for political rally ahead of crucial Senate, governor races

Biden to join Obama at Pa. rally for 2 big races

PHILADELPHIA – President Barack Obama is being joined by Vice President Joe Biden in Philadelphia this weekend at a rally that aims to invigorate Democratic voters ahead of two crucial statewide races.
Obama announced last week he’d be joined Sunday by U.S. Senate candidate Joe Sestak …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Biden to join Obama in Philly for political rally ahead of crucial Senate, governor races.

Stumping in Illinois and Maryland, Obama aims to energize Dems to turn out for midterms

Obama battles to hold his old Senate seat for Dems

CHICAGO – Battling to keep his old Senate seat out of GOP hands, President Barack Obama on Thursday recalled the joy that swept his hometown backers on election night two years ago and said the “mission” he began that night is at stake in the coming … Original article on : Stumping in Illinois and Maryland, Obama aims to energize Dems to turn out for midterms.

Soap bar ‘made of Silvio Berlusconi’s fat’ on show at Swiss museum

LONDON – A soap bar made out of the fat belonging to Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been put on display in a Swiss museum.

Berlusconi underwent liposuction at a Swiss clinic in 2004, and a clinic employee gave the discarded fat to Swiss artist Gianni Motti, said a statement from Zurich’s Migros Museum of …. Read the original article  : Soap bar ‘made of Silvio Berlusconi’s fat’ on show at Swiss museum.

JMM legislators resent denial of cabinet berths

RANCHI – Four Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) legislators Saturday expressed anger at being denied berth in the Arjun Munda cabinet, a day after the state chief minister inducted nine more ministers in his team.

There was deep resentment among the legislators, one of whom vented his anger publically and even threatened to pull down the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bihar BJP chief summoned to Delhi to meet high command

PATNA – An adamant Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Bihar unit president C.P. Thakur Saturday refused to withdraw his resignation over the distribution of tickets for the assembly polls. He has been summoned to New Delhi to meet the party high command.

BJP president Nitin Gadkari has called him to New Delhi to clear his position, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rebel Karnataka MLAs’ major issues sorted out: Naik

PANAJI – Most major issues raised by the rebel Karnataka legislators have been resolved and a “positive outcome” is expected Saturday, a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said.

Speaking to reporters outside a five-star resort, 40 km from here, where the 14 dissenting MLAs from Karnataka are camping, BJP’s North Goa parliamentarian Shripad Naik … Original article on : Rebel Karnataka MLAs’ major issues sorted out: Naik.

Chandrababu Naidu raises hand on tribal woman

HYDERABAD – Did former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu assault a tribal woman during a meeting in East Godavari district? Yes, says a television channel, which repeatedly telecast the scene but Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) denies it.

The visuals show TDP chief raising his hand to beat a woman, snatching the mike …. Source article  : Chandrababu Naidu raises hand on tribal woman.

Ayodhya verdict has complicated Bihar poll scene (Comment)

Since Bihar is the first state which will go to the polls in the aftermath of the Ayodhya verdict, the impact of the controversial judgment is bound to be seen in the results. Intriguingly, the expectations of the two ruling allies – the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) – from the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ayodhya verdict has complicated Bihar poll scene (Comment).

Australian envoy summoned over cops’ racist email

NEW DELHI – Australian High Commissioner Peter Varghese was Saturday summoned by the external affairs ministry over a racist email police made in Victoria state, officials said.

Varghese was summoned over reports that police officers in Victoria had been caught joking in a racist email about the electrocution of a train passenger in India. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

TV presenter’s ‘racist’ remarks on Sheila Dikshit have embarrassed New Zealand: PM

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has said that the ‘racist’ comments by one of the country’s TV presenters about New Delhi Chief Minister, Sheila Dikshit, has embarrassed his country.

According to news.com.au, Key said that the TV host Paul Henry’s “poorly designed humour has ended up embarrassing New Zealand. For that I …. Source  : TV presenter’s ‘racist’ remarks on Sheila Dikshit have embarrassed New Zealand: PM.

Americans evenly divided over Bush vs Obama

WASHINGTON – Ahead of a tough mid-term battle for Congress, Americans are almost equally divided over whether President Barack Obama or his predecessor George Bush has performed better in the White House, according to a new national poll.

Opposition Republicans also hold large advantages over the Democrats among independents, men and blue-collar whites, suggests a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Americans evenly divided over Bush vs Obama.

Bihar BJP chief refuses to withdraw resignation

PATNA – The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Bihar unit president C.P. Thakur refused to withdraw his resignation Saturday, a day after he stepped down saying that he was unhappy with the distribution of tickets to contest the upcoming assembly polls.

A BJP leader close to Thakur told IANS that the latter would not take part … Original article on : Bihar BJP chief refuses to withdraw resignation.

Wis. Sen. Feingold defends vote for health care reform; GOP’s Johnson says minor tweaks needed

Wis. Senate candidates clash on health care reform

MILWAUKEE – Wisconsin Sen. Russ Feingold defended his vote for health care reform during a televised debate Friday, and accused Republican challenger Ron Johnson of wanting to replace the program with a system that puts insurance companies in control.
Johnson, who calls the health care law an assault on … Read : Wis. Sen. Feingold defends vote for health care reform; GOP’s Johnson says minor tweaks needed.

Arab League supports Palestinians over talks

TRIPOLI – The foreign ministers of the Arab League (AL) member states have decided to support the Palestinians to halt talks with Israel amid Israeli settlement constructions.

The decision was made at a meeting of the AL peace initiative follow-up committee Friday in the Libyan city of Sirte, Xinhua reported. The meeting was delayed twice …. Source article  : Arab League supports Palestinians over talks.

Cuomo aide: No ‘factual basis’ in GOP Paladino’s suggestion Dem had affairs while married

Cuomo aide: Affair claims baseless in NY gov race

ALBANY, N.Y. – A top aide to New York Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andrew Cuomo has denied suggestions by Republican opponent Carl Paladino that Cuomo had an extramarital affair.
Cuomo General Counsel Ben Lawsky told The Associated Press there is “no factual basis” in Paladino’s claim and that Cuomo [..] Read the original article: here.

Governor of Mexico’s Jalisco state says same-sex marriage ‘grosses me out’

Mexican governor: Gay marriage ‘grosses me out’

GUADALAJARA, Mexico – The governor of Mexico’s Jalisco state says gay marriages disgust him.
Gov. Emilio Gonzalez says marriage should be between a man and a woman. He adds, in his words, “that other thing, as they say, still grosses me out.”
Gonzalez spoke Friday at a forum on family in …. Read the original article  : here.

Presidential Proclamation???Columbus Day

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Over five centuries ago, Christopher Columbus set sail across the Atlantic Ocean in search of a new trade route to India.  The findings of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–Columbus Day.

US assumes Kim’s son will lead North Korea

WASHINGTON – The US is assuming that North Korean leader Kim Jong Il will transfer power to his son when he is no longer able to run the country, US Defence Secretary Robert Gates said Friday.

Kim Jong Un was promoted to general last month during a gathering of North Korea’s ruling communist party, a … Read more >>.

Brown aide caught on audio tape calling Calif. gubernatorial rival Whitman an offensive name

Brown campaign apologizes for offensive comment

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The campaign of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jerry Brown has apologized to Republican rival Meg Whitman after an aide referred to her in a recorded voicemail message as a “whore” because of her attempt to curry favor with a law enforcement union.
The comment was caught on a voicemail …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brown aide caught on audio tape calling Calif. gubernatorial rival Whitman an offensive name.

Readout of President Obama’s Call with Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

President Obama called Prime Minister Reinfeldt of Sweden today to congratulate the Prime Minister on his re-election.  The President thanked the Prime Minister for … Original article on : Readout of President Obama’s Call with Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt.

APNewsBreak: New Conn. Senate race ad accuses WWE of lobbying against state drug testing

APNewsBreak: Conn. Senate ad hits WWE on lobbying

HARTFORD, Conn. – Connecticut Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Richard Blumenthal on Friday launched a new TV ad that accuses his Republican rival, former wrestling executive Linda McMahon, of working to kill steroid and drug testing laws in various states.
The 30-second spot is among Blumenthal’s most critical of McMahon, …. Read the original article  : APNewsBreak: New Conn. Senate race ad accuses WWE of lobbying against state drug testing.

Presidential Proclamation???National School Lunch Week

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For Immediate Release

No child should have to learn on an empty stomach.  Nearly 65 years ago, America made protecting the health of our children a national … Original source on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–National School Lunch Week.

Political war gets personal in poll-bound Bihar

PATNA – The knives are out. As the Bihar elections approach, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and former chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad are launching fierce attacks on each other at every poll rally.

With barely 10 days to go for the first of the six-phased assembly polls, the attacks are …. Original source  : Political war gets personal in poll-bound Bihar.

Myanmar to release 11,000 inmates before polls

YANGON – Myanmar authorities will release 11,000 prisoners before the Nov 7 general election but it was unclear whether any political prisoners would be among them, reports said Sunday.

The Department of Corrections is planning to reduce the sentences of more than 3,000 prisoners while 8,000 others are expected to complete their sentences before the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Myanmar to release 11,000 inmates before polls.

Rabri Devi’s assets – 62 cows and 42 calves

PATNA – Not too many Indian politicians boast of such assets. Former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi is the proud owner of 62 cows and 42 calves worth Rs.17.8 lakh (over $40,000) – and has declared so ahead of the assembly elections.

She has revealed this in the affidavit submitted Saturday along with her nomination … Read more »»».

North Korea heir apparent debuts at military parade

SEOUL – The son and apparent successor of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il made a high-profile debut Sunday at a massive military parade through the streets of Pyongyang.

Kim Jong-Un, believed to be in his late 20s, took his place on the viewing podium with his father to preside at the celebration of the …. Read the original article  : here.

Statement by the President Commending The Declaration on Aviation Security

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

“I commend the International Civil Aviation Organization for adopting yesterday's Declaration on Aviation Security, which forges a historic new foundation for aviation security that … Read more >>.

Arab-African summit opens with focus on Palestine

CAIRO/SIRTE – Heads of states from various Arab and African countries attended Saturday the opening of the second Arab-Afro summit, which will focus heavily on Mideast peace negotiations and the looming South Sudan referendum.

Arab League secretary-general Amr Moussa, who gave a short speech at the opening, said the summit would hone in on key … Read more >>.

Karnataka BJP crisis deepens as more legislators join rebels (Roundup)

BANGALORE/PANAJI – The crisis in the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday deepened, with more party legislators, including two who returned to the party fold in the last two days, joining the rebels in Goa while a dissident minister said he was returning to the party fold.

Excise Minister M.P. Renukacharya, who spearheaded … Read more : Karnataka BJP crisis deepens as more legislators join rebels (Roundup).

India protests, summons Aussie envoy over racist email (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – India Saturday expressed anger over a racist email the police made in Australia’s Victoria state, even as Australia condemned it as offensive and unacceptable.

The union ministry of external affairs had summoned Australian High Commissioner Peter Varghese and handed over a demarche Saturday morning, after Australian media reported that Victoria police officers …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India protests, summons Aussie envoy over racist email (Roundup).

Rebel BJP legislator denies kidnapping, says decision on support later

PANAJI – One of the 13 rebel Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators of Karnataka Saturday denied the BJP’s claim that they had been kidnapped by the Congress and the Janata Dal-S (JD-S), saying they had walked out of the negotiations on their own.

Speaking to reporters at the Dabolim airport, Karwar legislator Anand Asnotikar said …. Source article  : Rebel BJP legislator denies kidnapping, says decision on support later.

Prime Minister condoles passing away of civil rights campaigner S.R. Sankaran

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has condoled the passing away of civil rights campaigner and former IAS officer S.R. Sankaran.

In his condolence message, Prime Minister Dr. Singh recalled Mr. Sankaran’s commitment to public service and high moral standards.

“I am deeply grieved to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Prime Minister condoles passing away of civil rights campaigner S.R. Sankaran.

Gujarat civic, panchayat polls to set tone for 2012 assembly clash

GANDHINAGAR – Elections to six key municipal corporations in Gujarat Sunday and panchayat polls 11 days later are almost akin to a mid-term mandate on the performance of the Narendra Modi government ahead of the 2012 assembly polls.

Six of the total seven municipal corporations of Gujarat – Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, Surat, Bhavnagar and Jamnagar …. Original article  : Gujarat civic, panchayat polls to set tone for 2012 assembly clash.

‘Sonia Gandhi to decide on Congress’ state unit chiefs soon’

NEW DELHI – Congress president Sonia Gandhi is expected to soon begin the process of finalising state party chiefs as part of the party’s organisational elections process, party leaders said here.

According to party sources, Gandhi, who has been authorised by the state units to decide their chiefs as part of the organisational elections, will … Read more >>>.

Pakistan anti-graft body chief’s appointment challenged

ISLAMABAD – The appointment of a new chairman of Pakistan’s anti-graft body, National Accountability Bureau (NAB), was challenged in the Lahore High Court Saturday after opposition leaders objected to the choice of candidate for his allegiance with the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party.

The NAB chairman, at the direction of the Supreme Court, was required to …. Source article  : Pakistan anti-graft body chief’s appointment challenged.

Congress denies any hand in Karnataka crisis

NEW DELHI – The Congress Saturday denied it had joined hands with the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) to bring down the Bharatiya Jananta Party (BJP) government in Karnataka.

Congress general secretary B.K. Hariprasad said the BJP and the JD-S had joined hands to defeat the Congress in the Rajya Sabha elections in June and the two …. Original source  : Congress denies any hand in Karnataka crisis.

Congress, JD-S have kidnapped Karnataka MLAs, alleges BJP

PANAJI – Eleven of the rebel Karnataka legislators staying at a five-star resort in Goa have been “forcefully kidnapped” by the Congress and Janata Dal-Secular, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader alleged Saturday.

Speaking to reporters outside the resort, BJP leader Ramesh Katti claimed that senior Goa police officials were used to physically shift the …. Original article  : Congress, JD-S have kidnapped Karnataka MLAs, alleges BJP.

Congress not doing enough to check rising prices: Buddhadeb

NADIA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Saturday assailed the Manmohan Singh government for not doing enough to control the rising prices and its policies which have “retarded the growth of India”.

“The Congress government is not at all doing enough to control the price rise. They are giving subsidy to the rich people …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Congress not doing enough to check rising prices: Buddhadeb.

Pakistan’s ex-brigadier ready to testify against Musharraf

ISLAMABAD – A retired brigadier of the Pakistani Army is ready to testify against former president Pervez Musharraf in the killing of a popular Baluch tribal leader, a local politician said Saturday.

Former brigadier Masood Malik, who served during General Musharraf’s regime, has agreed to become approver against the dictator in Nawab Akbar Bugti murder … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan’s ex-brigadier ready to testify against Musharraf.

Maoist sympathiser Gaddar takes up Telangana cause

HYDERABAD – Maoist sympathiser and revolutionary balladeer Gaddar Saturday formally launched his new outfit Telangana Praja Front (TPF) to advocate a separate state of Telangana.

Stating that mass struggle is the only way to achieve the goal, he said the TPF was not a mere political party but would develop into a strong political …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoist sympathiser Gaddar takes up Telangana cause.

BJP summons C P Thakur following his resignation

PATNA – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) high command has summoned Bihar BJP President C P Thakur to New Delhi after he tendered his resignation from the party post on Friday ahead of the Assembly polls in the State.

“I have been called by BJP national president Nitin Gadkari to discuss the issues raised by me. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP summons C P Thakur following his resignation.

Yeddyurappa government will fall, says Kumaraswamy

NEW DELHI – Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy Saturday claimed he has the numbers to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Karnataka in the confidence vote in the assembly Monday.

“We have the numbers,” the former Karnataka chief minister told IANS on phone.
Kumaraswamy, who is accused by the BJP …. Source  : Yeddyurappa government will fall, says Kumaraswamy.

Kerala Independent legislator to quit assembly

MALAPPURAM – Kerala’s Independent legislator Manjalamkulam Ali, who has been backed by the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), Monday said he was resigning from the assembly as he was being attacked by the party.

“I am really sad and am fed up of being attacked by senior CPI-M leaders. So I …. Source  : Kerala Independent legislator to quit assembly.

Yeddyurappa has lost moral right to continue: Congress

BANGALORE – The Congress said Monday that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Karnataka had no moral right to continue as it had lost the trust of the people in the state.

The (B.S.) Yeddyurappa government won the trust vote but people have lost trust in the BJP. Never in the history …. Read the original article  : Yeddyurappa has lost moral right to continue: Congress.

BJP government had the numbers, says Venkaiah Naidu

BANGALORE – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader M. Venkaiah Naidu said Monday that the B.S. Yeddyurappa government in Karnataka had the numbers to prove its majority in the assembly and accused the Congress and the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) of playing dirty tricks.

The Congress and Janata Dal-Secular played dirty tricks. They created ruckus…The chief … Read more »»».

Yeddyurappa wins trust vote, opposition cries foul (Second Lead)

BANGALORE – The first Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Karnataka Monday won the confidence motion by a voice vote amid chaos in the assembly, officials said as the opposition Congress and JD-S cried foul and said it all happened in too much of a hurry.

“Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurppa proved majority on the floor … Original article on : Yeddyurappa wins trust vote, opposition cries foul (Second Lead).

Henry’s resignation has closed “sad and regrettable” episode: Kiwi PM

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has said that the resignation of TVNZ presenter Paul Henry for his ‘racist’ comments against Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit has closed a “sad and regrettable” episode.

The racial comments made by Henry sparked a record number of … Read more >>>.

Pakistan to have Electronic Voting Machines

ISLAMABAD – Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be introduced in Pakistan and some 200,000 EVMs would be procured before the general elections, authorities said.

The Pakistani Election Commission plans to conduct a pilot project during local government polls expected next year, Dawn reported.
The general elections were last held in 2008.
Sources said Saturday … Read more »»».

Kumaraswamy demands Yeddyurappa government’s dismissal

BANGALORE – Former Karnataka chief minister and Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy Monday said his party will meet Governor H.R. Bhardwaj to seek the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government’s dismissal over the manner in which it won the trust vote in the assembly.

We are demanding immediate dismissal of the government. The trust vote …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kumaraswamy demands Yeddyurappa government’s dismissal.

Karzai calls mood swings story ‘funny’

WASHINGTON – Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai doesn’t suffer from mood swings and termed as “rather funny” a story that said he did.

Veteran Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward in his book titled “Obama’s Wars” cites US intelligence reports and says that Karzai has been diagnosed as manic-depressive.
Manic depressive refers to mood swings from overly … Original source on Gaea Times at : Karzai calls mood swings story ‘funny’.

Buddhadeb slams Trinamool Congress over nexus with Maoists

BURDWAN – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has slammed the Trinamool Congress for creating unrest in the state and having a nexus with Maoists.

Addressing a rally here on Sunday, Bhattacharjee said: “Trinamool Congress is creating problems everywhere. They only believe in violence and unrest. They …. Read the original article  : Buddhadeb slams Trinamool Congress over nexus with Maoists.

No ‘govt pressure’ behind ‘India-racism-slur’ TV host’s ‘resignation’, says Kiwi PM

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has said that his government did not pressurise TVNZ presenter Paul Henry to resign, and added that he was happy that Henry made his own decision.

Henry resigned on Sunday after meeting the state broadcaster’s chief executive, Rick Ellis.

“He …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No ‘govt pressure’ behind ‘India-racism-slur’ TV host’s ‘resignation’, says Kiwi PM.

Yeddyurappa government wins trust vote amid chaos

BANGALORE – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Karnataka led by B.S. Yeddyurappa Monday proved its majority by winning the confidence motion through a voice vote, assembly Speaker K.G. Bopaiah declared amid chaos here.

The Yeddyurappa government got 106 votes.
Monday morning saw much drama as the speaker had disqualified 16 rebel legislators, …. Source article  : Yeddyurappa government wins trust vote amid chaos.

BJP government in Karnataka wins trust vote

BANGALORE – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government led by B.S. Yeddyurappa in Karnataka Monday proved its majority by winning the confidence motion through a voice vote, assembly Speaker K.G. Bopaiah declared amid chaos
…. Original article  : BJP government in Karnataka wins trust vote.

Schwarzenegger, Medvedev exchange tweets

Moscow, Oct 11 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Former Hollywood star and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger exchanged tweets with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev ahead of a business meeting here in the Russian capital.

“Just landed in Moscow. Beautiful day. Can’t wait to see Pres Medvedev @KremlinRussia_e,” Schwarzenegger wrote on his Twitter page, including a link to a photo … Read more »»».

Karnataka speaker disqualifies 16 rebel legislators

BANGALORE – Karnataka legislative assembly Speaker K.G. Bopaiah Monday disqualified 16 rebel legislators, including 11 of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and five independents, hours before the trust-vote.

“Speaker has sent the disqualification letters to all the 16 rebel legislators individually informing them that they will not be allowed to vote in the confidence … Read more : Karnataka speaker disqualifies 16 rebel legislators.

Remarks by the President and the Vice President at a DNC “Moving America Forward” Rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Fulton Elementary School Park
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

4:57 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Germantown!  (Applause.)  Hello, Philly!  Well, Governor Rendell, I tell you, look at all these … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the President and the Vice President at a DNC “Moving America Forward” Rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Statement by President Obama on the Passing of Albertina Walker

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For Immediate Release

Michelle and I are saddened by the passing of gospel great Albertina Walker. Ms. Walker was known for her Grammy Award winning voice and … Original article on : Statement by President Obama on the Passing of Albertina Walker.

India seeks easing of US high tech export curbs

WASHINGTON – Ahead of President Barack Obama’s November visit to India, the two sides are talking about easing Washington’s curbs on export of high tech items and removing certain Indian units from the US entities list.

“We do feel a number of (Indian) units on their entity list should be removed from their list,” to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India seeks easing of US high tech export curbs.

Karnataka governor, speaker spat over rebels

BANGALORE – On the eve of Karnataka’s 29-month-old B.S. Yeddyurappa government’s trust vote, Governor H.R. Bhardwaj and assembly Speaker K.G. Bopaiah were embroiled in a war of words through letters Sunday on the disqualification of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rebels.

With the stage set for a showdown in the 225-member lower house between … Read more »».

Trinamool obstructing Bengal’s development: Buddhadeb

BURDWAN – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Sunday said the opposition Trinamool Congress is creating obstacles in the path of the state’s development but his party, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), would not let it succeed.

“Trinamool Congress is trying to create obstacles in each and every development work of the state. Wherever …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Trinamool obstructing Bengal’s development: Buddhadeb.

NATO supply resumes from Pakistan’s border

ISLAMABAD – The supply of oil and other logistics for NATO troops in Afghanistan resumed Sunday from Torkham border in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province after a 10-day break.

Hundreds of trucks carrying supplies for the coalition forces, which were lined up at the Torkham border, were allowed to cross after the border officials received …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NATO supply resumes from Pakistan’s border.

Trust vote was not proper, says Bhardwaj

BANGALORE – The trust vote won by Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa Monday was not proper as there was no record of how many people had voted in favour of the trust vote and how many against, Governor H.R. Bhardwaj said Tuesday.

“The atmosphere of the house was vitiated by the presence of uniformed policemen …. Read the original article  : Trust vote was not proper, says Bhardwaj.

‘Italian vs Italian’ in New York governor race

NEW YORK – Sopranos-style gold chains have shown up in campaign advertisements. Ethnic-tinged terms, like goumada, and wisecracks about Sicilian grudges have been bandied about. New York is set to witness a different kind of campaign this time for the next month’s gubernatorial election as both the rivals in the fray are of Italian origin.

… Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Italian vs Italian’ in New York governor race.

Another trust vote Oct 14, governor tells Yeddyurappa

BANGALORE – Karnataka Governor H.R. Bharadwaj Tuesday gave Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa a “fresh opportunity” to prove Oct 14 that he enjoyed the confidence of a majority of the house.

“In the circumstances, it is incumbent upon you to demonstrate clearly and objectively that you have the majority in the house. In case you are … Original article on : Another trust vote Oct 14, governor tells Yeddyurappa.

Battle for the minority, tea garden vote begins in Assam

GUWAHATI – With assembly elections in Assam due next year, political parties have already started wooing minority Muslims and tea garden workers for their prized votes.

The state’s main opposition Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), for instance, held a crucial meeting of its minority cell chaired by party president Chandra Mohan Patowary.
The party, … Read more : Battle for the minority, tea garden vote begins in Assam.

Chhattisgarh BJP government can fall any day: Ajit Jogi (Interview)

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government will not complete its full term and it can fall any day under its own weight, senior Congress leader and former chief minister Ajit Jogi says, adding that several dissident BJP legislators are in touch with him.

“The Raman Singh government will not complete its full term. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh BJP government can fall any day: Ajit Jogi (Interview).

Poll panel team in Bihar to review preparations

PATNA – An Election Commission team headed by Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi arrived here Tuesday to oversee preparations for the six-phase Bihar assembly polls to be held from Oct 21, an official said here.

The EC team, on a two-day visit, left for Bhagalpur district soon after arriving here to hold a meeting with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Poll panel team in Bihar to review preparations.

Musharraf ‘gives full marks’ to ’sincere’ Manmohan Singh for Kashmir solution efforts

LONDON – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh deserves ‘full marks’ for his ’sincere’ efforts to resolve the Kashmir issue and have peace with Pakistan, but is held back from taking a bold step over fears of domestic political backlash, former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has said.

In a TV interview, Musharraf disclosed that it was Manmohan, [..] Read the original article: here.

BJP core group to discuss Karnataka situation today

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) core group will hold a meeting here on Tuesday to take stock of the developments in Karnataka.

The core group will meet under the chairmanship of party president Nitin Gadkari at 11 a.m. at senior leader LK Advani’s residence.

The core gorup will take stock of the developments in … Read more »».

Lalu, Paswan release joint election manifesto for Bihar Assembly polls

PATNA – Former Bihar Chief Minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav released the joint election manifesto along with Lok Janashakti Party (LJP) chief Ram Vilas Paswan for the upcoming Bihar Assembly polls.

The duo in their manifesto claimed to have covered all the issues concerning both urban and rural voters.

On the occasion, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lalu, Paswan release joint election manifesto for Bihar Assembly polls.

Sharif sacked Musharraf after phone call: ex-army officer

ISLAMABAD – A telephone call was the final trigger for then Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif to sack his army chief General Pervez Musharraf exactly 11 years ago, triggering a chain of events that saw a military coup and the arrest of General Ziauddin Butt who had been elevated to the top post.

General (retd) … Read more : Sharif sacked Musharraf after phone call: ex-army officer.

Musharraf ‘gives full marks’ to ’sincere’ Manmohan Singh for Kashmir solution efforts

LONDON – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh deserves ‘full marks’ for his ’sincere’ efforts to resolve the Kashmir issue and have peace with Pakistan, but is held back from taking a bold step over fears of domestic political backlash, former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has said.

In a TV interview, Musharraf disclosed that it was Manmohan, …. Original article  : Musharraf ‘gives full marks’ to ’sincere’ Manmohan Singh for Kashmir solution efforts.

BJP core group to discuss Karnataka situation today

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) core group will hold a meeting here on Tuesday to take stock of the developments in Karnataka.

The core group will meet under the chairmanship of party president Nitin Gadkari at 11 a.m. at senior leader LK Advani’s residence.

The core gorup will take stock of the developments in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP core group to discuss Karnataka situation today.

Schwarzenegger, Medvedev hit the gym

Moscow, Oct 12 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Former Hollywood star and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger showed Russian President Dmitry Medvedev some of his know-how in the gym.

“We talked not only about investment, but also about sports,” Medvedev wrote on his Twitter micro blog, and included a link to a photo of himself and “Arnie” beside a … Read more >>>.

Statement by the Press Secretary on S. 3729

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For Immediate Release

On October 11, 2010, the President signed into law:

S. 3729, the “National Aeronautics Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010,” which authorizes appropriations to NASA … Original source on Gaea Times at : Statement by the Press Secretary on S. 3729.

Statement by President Obama on the Parliamentary Elections in Kyrgyzstan

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For Immediate Release

I congratulate the people and government of the Kyrgyz Republic for carrying out orderly parliamentary elections yesterday.  Above all,  I congratulate the voters of …. Original source  : Statement by President Obama on the Parliamentary Elections in Kyrgyzstan.

Statement by President Obama on Diamond and Mortensen Being Awarded the 2010 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Science

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For Immediate Release

I congratulate Peter Diamond and Dale Mortensen on winning the Nobel Prize in Economics for their groundbreaking economic research that has applications in a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Statement by President Obama on Diamond and Mortensen Being Awarded the 2010 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Science.

Remarks by the President on Rebuilding America’s Infrastructure

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For Immediate Release

Rose Garden

11:08 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT:  Good morning, everybody.  I just had a meeting with Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner, Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, and …. Read the original article  : here.

President Obama Holds Meeting on Infrastructure Investment, New Report Shows Positive Economic Impact on States and Communities

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WASHINGTON — Building off his Labor Day announcement of a bold new plan for modernizing and rebuilding America's roads, railways, and runways (fact sheet …. Read the original article  : President Obama Holds Meeting on Infrastructure Investment, New Report Shows Positive Economic Impact on States and Communities.

Cabinet expansion not discussed with Sonia, says Rosaiah

NEW DELHI/HYDERABAD – The much-awaited expansion of the Andhra Pradesh cabinet may take more time as Chief Minister K. Rosaiah Monday said the issue did not figure during his meeting with Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

Rosaiah, who was on a two-day visit to the national capital amid intense speculations that the cabinet would be expanded … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cabinet expansion not discussed with Sonia, says Rosaiah.

Gadkari says Congress and Janta Dal attempted to destabilize BJP in Karnataka

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party chief Nitin Gadkari said on Monday that the Congress and the Janta Dal (Secular) made an attempt to destabilize the BJP government in Karnataka by using money and power.

He blamed the opposition Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) for trying to destabilize the government. Despite all these attempts he said … Read more : Gadkari says Congress and Janta Dal attempted to destabilize BJP in Karnataka.

Puja and polls: Nitish’s family prays, Lalu helps Rabri with rituals

PATNA – They need all the help they can get and Durga Puja has come just in time! Bihar politicians and their families are busy invoking the goddess at their homes. This time they have a special prayer – victory in the coming assembly polls.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has time and again said he …. Source article  : Puja and polls: Nitish’s family prays, Lalu helps Rabri with rituals.

Row over Indian funding in Ghana presidential palace

ACCRA – The Indian government’s funding for the construction of a presidential palace in the Ghanaian capital has caused a row with a former Ghana president commending New Delhi and the present incumbent refusing to move into the $135 million home. There are even suggestions that it be converted into a poultry farm.

The …. Original article  : Row over Indian funding in Ghana presidential palace.

Axe Karnataka governor, BJP tells PM (Lead, Supersedes earlier story)

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Wednesday asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to immediately recall Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj, saying he was trying to topple the B.S. Yeddyurappa government.

The BJP’s top brass, including L.K. Advani, Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley and M. Venkaiah Naidu, made the demand when they called on the prime … Read more : Axe Karnataka governor, BJP tells PM (Lead, Supersedes earlier story).

Karnataka crisis: BJP delegation to meet PM

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani will lead a delegation to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday to seek Karnataka Governor HR Bhardwaj’s removal.

The BJP is accusing Bhardwaj of plunging the state into a constitutional crisis.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa has expressed his readiness to undergo the Vote …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Karnataka crisis: BJP delegation to meet PM.

Karnataka BJP issues whip for Yeddyurappa’s trust vote

BANGALORE – The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka issued a whip to all its MLAs on Wednesday to vote in favour of the motion of confidence that would be moved by Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa in the State Assembly on Thursday after a controversial trust vote triggered a political storm prompting Governor H …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Karnataka BJP issues whip for Yeddyurappa’s trust vote.

RJD-LJP manifesto is bagful of empty promises: BJP

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Ravishankar Prasad has described the joint manifesto of Rashtriya Janata Dal- Lok Janashakti Party as ‘nothing but a bagful of empty promises’ for voters of Bihar.

Speaking to mediapersons, Prasad said: “In the joint manifesto, they promised that they would work for toning up the administration to improve … Read more >>.

Pak holds ‘trump card’ to success of Afghan peace talks with Taliban: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – The renewed Afghan efforts to make peace with the Taliban to end the nine-year war would fail without Pakistan’s help, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has stated.

Earlier this week in a TV interview, Afghan President Hamid Karzai had disclosed that he had renewed overtures to the Taliban, and had been holding talks …. Original article  : Pak holds ‘trump card’ to success of Afghan peace talks with Taliban: Gilani.

Punjab finance minister sacked

CHANDIGARH – Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal was Wednesday dismissed from the ministry headed by his uncle, Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal.

The finance minister was dropped from the ministry owing to his recent statements regarding the Rs.700 billion (Rs.70,000 crore) debt on the state.
He had demanded that the ruling Shiromani Akali … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Punjab finance minister sacked.

Pakistani foreign minister’s visit put off till next year

NEW DELHI – Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will now visit India only next year because of scheduling problems caused by a slew of high-level visits in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said here Wednesday.

Krishna said at a breakfast interaction with editors that he extended an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart …. Original source  : Pakistani foreign minister’s visit put off till next year.

Karnataka BJP issues whip for Yeddyurappa’s trust vote

BANGALORE – The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka issued a whip to all its MLAs on Wednesday to vote in favour of the motion of confidence that would be moved by Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa in the State Assembly on Thursday after a controversial trust vote triggered a political storm prompting Governor H …. Read the original article  : here.

RJD-LJP manifesto is bagful of empty promises: BJP

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Ravishankar Prasad has described the joint manifesto of Rashtriya Janata Dal- Lok Janashakti Party as ‘nothing but a bagful of empty promises’ for voters of Bihar.

Speaking to mediapersons, Prasad said: “In the joint manifesto, they promised that they would work for toning up the administration to improve …. Original article  : RJD-LJP manifesto is bagful of empty promises: BJP.

Pak holds ‘trump card’ to success of Afghan peace talks with Taliban: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – The renewed Afghan efforts to make peace with the Taliban to end the nine-year war would fail without Pakistan’s help, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has stated.

Earlier this week in a TV interview, Afghan President Hamid Karzai had disclosed that he had renewed overtures to the Taliban, and had been holding talks …. Source  : Pak holds ‘trump card’ to success of Afghan peace talks with Taliban: Gilani.

Karnataka crisis: BJP delegation to meet PM

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani will lead a delegation to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday to seek Karnataka Governor HR Bhardwaj’s removal.

The BJP is accusing Bhardwaj of plunging the state into a constitutional crisis.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa has expressed his readiness to undergo the Vote … Original article on : Karnataka crisis: BJP delegation to meet PM.

India a strong contender for permanent UN membership: Krishna

NEW DELHI – With India set to become a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council with strong endorsement from 187 countries, the country has now become a strong contender for the coveted permanent membership of the world body, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said here Wednesday.

At an interaction with editors, Krishna said it …. Source article  : India a strong contender for permanent UN membership: Krishna.

Karnataka BJP issues whip for Yeddyurappa’s trust vote

BANGALORE – The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka issued a whip to all its MLAs on Wednesday to vote in favour of the motion of confidence that would be moved by Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa in the State Assembly on Thursday after a controversial trust vote triggered a political storm prompting Governor H … Read more »».

RJD-LJP manifesto is bagful of empty promises: BJP

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Ravishankar Prasad has described the joint manifesto of Rashtriya Janata Dal- Lok Janashakti Party as ‘nothing but a bagful of empty promises’ for voters of Bihar.

Speaking to mediapersons, Prasad said: “In the joint manifesto, they promised that they would work for toning up the administration to improve …. Read the original article  : RJD-LJP manifesto is bagful of empty promises: BJP.

Pak holds ‘trump card’ to success of Afghan peace talks with Taliban: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – The renewed Afghan efforts to make peace with the Taliban to end the nine-year war would fail without Pakistan’s help, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has stated.

Earlier this week in a TV interview, Afghan President Hamid Karzai had disclosed that he had renewed overtures to the Taliban, and had been holding talks … Read : Pak holds ‘trump card’ to success of Afghan peace talks with Taliban: Gilani.

BJP leaders to meet PM for recall of Karnataka governor

NEW DELHI – Top leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here Wednesday, seeking the “recall” of Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj, a party official said here.

The central leadership of the party, including L.K. Advani, Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley and Venkaiah Naidu, will meet the prime minister at noon …. Source article  : BJP leaders to meet PM for recall of Karnataka governor.

Karnataka crisis: BJP delegation to meet PM

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani will lead a delegation to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday to seek Karnataka Governor HR Bhardwaj’s removal.

The BJP is accusing Bhardwaj of plunging the state into a constitutional crisis.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa has expressed his readiness to undergo the Vote …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Colombia wins spot on UN Security Council

United Nations, Oct 13 (IANS/EFE) The UN General Assembly Tuesday elected Colombia to hold one of the two non-permanent seats on the Security Council reserved for Latin America and the Caribbean during 2011-12.

During the first round of the voting, Germany was also selected by ballot to occupy one of the two seats reserved for …. Original source  : Colombia wins spot on UN Security Council.

Rahul targets Nitish Kumar’s development claims

PATNA – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Thursday launched a scathing attack on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, saying no development has taken place in the state.

“It is unfortunate that development has not taken place in Bihar despite the funds provided by the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) government to the tune of Rs.1 lakh … Read more >>.

Gandhi slams Nitish’s development claims

PATNA – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Thursday accused Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of not working for the state’s development.

The Metro in Delhi has been made by people of Bihar. Why isn’t such development taking place here? Why do people here have to go to Mumbai?” Gandhi asked at a rally in Araria. …. Original article  : Gandhi slams Nitish’s development claims.

Yeddyurappa wins second trust vote – narrowly (Second Lead)

BANGALORE – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Karnataka Thursday passed the floor test with Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa narrowly winning the second trust vote with 106 votes in its favour while the combined opposition bagged 100 in the state assembly.

Celebrations erupted in the house with Yeddyurappa and his colleagues flashing V signs … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Yeddyurappa wins second trust vote — narrowly (Second Lead).

Japan to ask Google to delete disputed islands’ Chinese name

TOKYO – Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara said Thursday the government was to call for Google Inc to remove Chinese names for a disputed set of islands in the East China Sea from the company’s mapping service.

The main opposition Liberal Democratic Party also protested Wednesday to Google over the use of Diaoyu – the … Read more : Japan to ask Google to delete disputed islands’ Chinese name.

Karnataka verdict subject to court ruling: Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress said Thursday that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) victory in the Karnataka trust vote would be subject to the court ruling on the disqualification of members by the speaker.

“Whatever the result, it is subject to the final decision of the high court,” Congress spokesman Manish Tewari told reporters.
…. Source article  : Karnataka verdict subject to court ruling: Congress.

BJP wins second trust vote in Karnataka

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa Thursday won the second confidence motion in the state assembly with his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) crossing the halfway mark of 105 by one vote.

The ruling BJP won 106 votes as against 100 by the opposition. The strength of the 225-member house that includes one nominated was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BJP wins second trust vote in Karnataka.

Yeddyurappa wins second trust vote

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa Thursday won the second confidence motion in the state assembly.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party got 106 votes against 100 by the opposition.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yeddyurappa wins second trust vote.

Flip-flop Karnataka Congress attends trust vote

BANGALORE – A flip-flop Congress Thursday attended the special session of the Karnataka assembly to take part in the second confidence motion after reversing an earlier decision at the 11th hour.

Reversing their boycott decision taken at its legislative party meeting an hour before the trust vote was taken up in the house, the Congress …. Source article  : Flip-flop Karnataka Congress attends trust vote.

No one wants Bihar’s ‘Osama’ this time

PATNA – Meraj Khalid Noor, a young businessman who campaigned in the 2005 assembly polls and was dubbed Bihar’s Osama bin Laden due to his uncanny resemblance to the Al Qaeda chief, finds himself unwanted by political parties this time.

“I am not in demand any more this time. I am busy with my business …. Original article  : No one wants Bihar’s ‘Osama’ this time.

Stage set for trust vote in Karnataka

BANGALORE – A confident Karnataka Chief Minister, B.S. Yeddyurappa, will take the floor test afresh Thursday in the state assembly amid tight security even as the opposition Congress decided to boycott the session.

The result of the trust vote is subject to the Karnataka high court judgment in the disqualification case of the 16 rebel … Original article on : Stage set for trust vote in Karnataka.

Statement by the Press Secretary

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

 
On October 13, 2010, the President signed into law:
 
H.R. 946, the “Plain Writing Act of 2010,” which requires Federal agencies to use plain writing … Read more »»».

Remarks by the President on the American Opportunity Tax Credit

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

Rose Garden … Read more >>>.

Maoists kill CPI-Marxist leader in Paschim Medinipur District

BELATIKRI – The Maoists killed a local committee member of the Communist Party of India – Marxist (CPI-M) in Belatikri village in West Bengal’s Paschim Medinipur District on Wednesday.

The deceased, Tapan Doloi, was picked up today morning taken into a field and shot dead.

“They (Maoists) came and took him … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists kill CPI-Marxist leader in Paschim Medinipur District.

Australian CWG delegate on Cinderella hunt

NEW DELHI – A pair of 200-year-old embroidered Mughal slippers belonging to an Indian “princess” has set an Australian delegate to the Commonwealth Games on a Cinderella hunt in India.

The pair of traditional hand-crafted “jootis” had been passed down to Australian delegate Eric Ronald’s family in the early 1800s.
It is believed [..] Read the original article: here.

Government names Kashmir interlocutors, separatists say ‘futile’ (Intro Roundup)

NEW DELHI/SRINAGAR – The government Wednesday named three new interlocutors, including journalist Dilip Padgaonkar, to re-start the logjammed political dialogue in Jammu and Kashmir and help bring peace in the troubled state, but the move failed to cut any ice with separatist leaders.

Home Minister P. Chidambaram told reporters in Delhi that “we have appointed …. Original article  : Government names Kashmir interlocutors, separatists say ‘futile’ (Intro Roundup).

Appointing interlocutors futile, say Kashmir separatists

SRINAGAR – Separatist leaders in Jammu and Kashmir Wednesday termed as “futile” the government move to name three interlocutors for restarting the stalled peace process in the troubled state.

“This is a futile exercise. The government of India is acting like deaf and dumb to the Kashmir situation,” Syed Ali Geelani, the hardline Hurriyat leader, …. Original article  : Appointing interlocutors futile, say Kashmir separatists.

Congress session on Nov 2

NEW DELHI – A one-day session of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) will be held in Delhi Nov 2, Congress general secretary Janardan Dwivedi said here Wednesday.

“The one-day session will deal mainly with the schedule for election to the party’s working committee as decided by the party’s Central Election Authority (CEA),” Dwivedi told …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Manmohan, Rajapaksa to discuss Tamil issue Friday

NEW DELHI – India will press for a political solution to the decades-old Tamil question and seek quicker resettlement of displaced civilians when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh meets Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rakapaksa for bilateral talks Friday.

Rajpakasa arrives here Thursday afternoon and will be the chief guest at the colourful Commonwealth Games’ closing …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan, Rajapaksa to discuss Tamil issue Friday.

India will reassert Kashmir position: Tharoor

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – India will reassert its position on Kashmir if Pakistan raises the issue again at the United Nations, former minister of state for external affairs Shashi Thaoor said here Wednesday,

Pakistan brought up the Kashmir issue at the UN last month when its Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi addressed the General Assembly.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India will reassert Kashmir position: Tharoor.

Pakistan may raise Kashmir in UN, says Tharoor

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, who would lead a delegation of Indian lawmakers to the UN in the coming week, said Wednesday that Pakistan might raise the Kashmir issue at the international forum.

“They have been raising the Kashmir issue on and off, and if they raise this issue we will give our opinions …. Read the original article  : Pakistan may raise Kashmir in UN, says Tharoor.

Shiv Sena says Colours has apologised

MUMBAI – The Shiv Sena has allowed cable operators here to air Colors after the channel apologized for including two Pakistani stars in the reality show “Big Boss 4″, a party leader said Friday.

“We have received a written apology from Colors which stated that they did not mean to hurt anybody’s sentiments and that …. Read the original article  : Shiv Sena says Colours has apologised.

Tony Blair’s memoirs ‘A Journey’ nominated for Bad Sex Award!

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair’s memoirs have been nominated for the Literary Review’s Bad Sex Award.

The least desirable prize in literature is conventionally awarded to novelists.

However, the judges have made an exception for the former Prime Minister and his toe-curling reminiscences about a night of passion with Cherie, reports the Telegraph.

“That night …. Source article  : Tony Blair’s memoirs ‘A Journey’ nominated for Bad Sex Award!.

Nothing wrong with Omar’s Kashmir accession remarks: Krishna

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Friday said he found “nothing objectionable” in Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s remark that the state had acceded to and not merged with the Union of India.

“I don’t think Abdullah has said anything objectionable. It is a fact that Jammu and Kashmir has acceded … Original article on : Nothing wrong with Omar’s Kashmir accession remarks: Krishna.

Bedlam in assembly blot on Karnataka, says Krishna

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Friday expressed distress at the unruly behaviour of legislators in the Karnataka assembly during the first trust vote Monday, saying it was a blot on the fair name of Karnataka.

“It’s a blot on the fair name of Karnataka – the way the session was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Notification issued for fifth phase of Bihar polls

PATNA – The Election Commission Friday issued the notification for the fifth phase of the six-phase Bihar assembly elections.

In the fifth round due Nov 9, polling will be held in 35 of the 243 constituencies of the state assembly.
Some of the districts going to polls in this phase are Maoist-affected, including …. Original article  : Notification issued for fifth phase of Bihar polls.

US ’supporting’ international terrorists: Turkish PM

ISLAMABAD – Criticising the “double standards” of the United States, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused it of supporting some common enemies of Pakistan and Turkey, adding that the time had come to act together and unmask them.

Erdogan stated that some foreign hands were supporting terrorists in Pakistan and Turkey directly as well … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US ’supporting’ international terrorists: Turkish PM.

AGP surveying Assam’s mood – to win elections

GUWAHATI – Assam’s main opposition Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) is banking on a New Delhi-based firm to come up with a set of suggestions to help it bounce back to power in assembly elections.

The AGP had entrusted an unnamed firm to carry out an exhaustive survey across the length and breadth of Assam to … Read : AGP surveying Assam’s mood — to win elections.

AGP surveying Assam’s mood – to win elections

GUWAHATI – Assam’s main opposition Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) is banking on a New Delhi-based firm to come up with a set of suggestions to help it bounce back to power in assembly elections.

The AGP had entrusted an unnamed firm to carry out an exhaustive survey across the length and breadth of Assam to … Read more »»».

After Rahul, PM and Sonia to campaign in Bihar

PATNA – After Rahul Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi will campaign in Bihar for the first of the six-phase assembly polls, party leaders said Friday.

Manmohan Singh will address a public rally Saturday in Narpatganj constituency in Araria district. Sonia Gandhi will address public rallies in Kishanganj and Motihari districts … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : After Rahul, PM and Sonia to campaign in Bihar.

Only 20,000 refugees remain, Sri Lanka tells India

NEW DELHI – Sri Lankan has informed India that only 20,000 out of nearly 300,000 people displaced by the war remained to be resettled in the country, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said Friday.

Briefing the media after holding talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart G.L. Peiris, Krishna said Colombo had also pledged to work … Original source on Gaea Times at : Only 20,000 refugees remain, Sri Lanka tells India.

India criticised for ‘betraying’ Canada on UN seat

TORONTO – India came in for sharp criticism here Thursday for not backing Canada in its bid for a seat in the UN Security Council.

New Delhi backed Portugal over Canada for one of the non-permanent seats in the Security Council this week.
India reportedly voted for Portugal because it supports its bid for a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India criticised for ‘betraying’ Canada on UN seat.

US worries on n-liability bill allayed, says Krishna

NEW DELHI – India has allayed the US’ “misapprehensions” about the civil nuclear liability bill, and has assured it that the legislation was aimed at providing a level playing field for doing nuclear business with New Delhi.

“There were some misapprehensions when the nuclear bill was passed. I had discussions with US Secretary (of …. Read the original article  : here.

PDP has reservations on Kashmir interlocutor nominations

SRINAGAR – Lashing out at the Centre for its choice of Kashmir interlocutors, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti has said it has dampened the atmosphere of hope generated by the recent all-party delegation.

“Nomination of Kashmir interlocutors has dampened the hope. It is more or less a useless exercise,” she said.

She said though the … Read more >>>.

N.Waziristan offensive decision to be based on Pak’s need, not US dictates: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Rejecting US military chief Admiral Mike Mullen’s assertion that his Pakistani counterpart, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani had assured him of launching an offensive in “the epicenter of terrorism,” North Waziristan, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has stated that a decision about such an operation would depend on the nation’s needs and not on … Original source on Gaea Times at : N.Waziristan offensive decision to be based on Pak’s need, not US dictates: Gilani.

Hillary Clinton excited about Obama trip to India

WASHINGTON – For globetrotter Hillary Clinton, her fondest trip was the one she took as first lady, taking her daughter Chelsea to the Taj Mahal as husband, then president Bill Clinton, transformed US ties with India.

“Oh, the Taj Mahal with Chelsea, yeah, that – I remember it fondly,” Clinton, now Secretary of State, told … Original article on : Hillary Clinton excited about Obama trip to India.

Obama reaches out to younger voters

LOS ANGELES – US president Barack Obama tried to renew his relationship with younger voters Thursday, holding a live town hall meeting on MTV, in which he accepted questions via Twitter and Facebook.

Obama’s election victory in 2008 owed a lot to his overwhelming popularity among young Americans. But this crucial demographic has found it …. Source article  : Obama reaches out to younger voters.

Readout of the President’s Call with President Pi??era of Chile

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"Earlier today, President Obama called Chilean President Sebastian Piñera to congratulate him and the Chilean government on the historic rescue of the 33 miners … Read more : Readout of the President’s Call with President Pi??era of Chile.

Remarks by the President in a Youth Town Hall

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BET Networks, Washington, D.C …. Original article  : Remarks by the President in a Youth Town Hall.

Letter and Notice from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Narcotics Traffickers Centered in Colombia

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Dear Madam Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:)

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1622(d), provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Letter and Notice from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Narcotics Traffickers Centered in Colombia.

President Obama Signs New York Disaster Declaration

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The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of New York and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Signs New York Disaster Declaration.

Gilani, Qureshi among many ministers yet to send educational degrees for verification

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi are among over 400 lawmakers whose graduation degrees are yet to be verified by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

According to the Dawn, the verification is yet to be done, as the copies of the ministers’ matriculation and intermediate certificates are not … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gilani, Qureshi among many ministers yet to send educational degrees for verification.

PM says Nitish Kumar apathetic to poor

PATNA – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday launched a scathing attack on the Bihar government, saying it had not implemented centrally-funded welfare and development schemes meant for the common man.

“Due to neglect and apathy of the Bihar government, centrally-funded welfare and development schemes failed in the state as the benefit hardly reached the common … Read : PM says Nitish Kumar apathetic to poor.

Sri Lankan activists slam PM’s plan to ordain boys as ‘Buddhist monks’ over sexual abuse fears

COLOMBO – Sri Lankan child rights activists have reportedly criticised the country’s Prime Minister DM Jayaratne for his plan to ordain 2,600 boys as Buddhist monks by next May to mark the 2,600th anniversary of Lord Buddha’s enlightenment.

The BBC quoted Jayaratne as saying, that that the move is …. Original article  : Sri Lankan activists slam PM’s plan to ordain boys as ‘Buddhist monks’ over sexual abuse fears.

Campaign picks up for Bihar polls

PATNA – Campaigning for the Bihar assembly elections has finally picked up with senior political leaders, including Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and BJP leader Arun Jaitley, set to address rallies and seek the people’s mandate.

With just three days to go for the end of campaign for the first of the six phased assembly polls, … Read more >>>.

Anti-Canada vote by India not to impact ties: Indo-Canadians

TORONTO – Though many in the million-strong, powerful Indo-Canadian community expressed unease about India voting against Canada for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat this week, they don’t expect it to impact burgeoning relationship between the two countries.

Canada suffered major diplomatic humiliation in decades after its so-called friendly countries, including India, ditched it to … Read more »»».

Manmohan Singh to campaign in Bihar today

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh would visit Bihar on Saturday to campaign for Congress candidates contesting in Assembly polls.

Dr Singh will address an election meeting at Narpatganj.

Bihar Congress spokesperson Prem Chandra Mishra said: “Dr Singh’s visit would boost the electoral prospects of Congress nominees in Bihar.

Congress …. Read the original article  : Manmohan Singh to campaign in Bihar today.

BJP’s pyrrhic victory in Karnataka (Comment)

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may have won the trust vote in the Karnataka assembly but at the cost of straining the confidence of the people. Besides, the narrow margin of its victory is only a thin buffer against the possible loss of power because the party will continue to be on tenterhooks till the … Read more : BJP’s pyrrhic victory in Karnataka (Comment).

Israel announces new housing tenders in East Jerusalem

JERUSALEM – Israel said Friday its housing ministry published tenders for 238 new housing units in East Jerusalem, a move which could further jeopardise the already uncertain resumption of direct negotiations with the Palestinians.

The tenders were the first to be published in the annexed eastern section of the disputed city for 10 months.
The … Read more >>.

Berlusconi, son face tax-evasion probe

Rome, Oct 16 (IANS/AKI) Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s lawyer has dismissed reports that the premier and his son Piersilvio are targets of a fresh tax-evasion probe related to the family-controlled media empire.

“It is nothing new,” said Pier Longo, one of the prime minister’s lawyers. “It’s a small part of the investigation that is … Original source on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi, son face tax-evasion probe.

Presidential Proclamation???White Cane Safety Day

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——-
October 15, 2010
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

The white cane, in addition to being a practical mobility tool, serves …. Source  : Presidential Proclamation–White Cane Safety Day.

Statement by the President on the Coast Guard Authorization Act

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Today I have signed into law H.R. 3619, the "Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010." This Act strengthens the Coast Guard as a military [..] Read the original article: here.

Presidential Memorandum???U.S. Drug Interdiciton Assistance to Brazil

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October 15, 2010

Presidential Determination
No.    2011-3

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE
                                    THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
SUBJECT:    Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Memorandum–U.S. Drug Interdiciton Assistance to Brazil.

Statement by the Press Secretary

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On October 15, 2010, the President signed into law:
 
S. 1510, the “United States Secret Service Uniformed Division Modernization Act of 2010,” which (1) transfers … Read : Statement by the Press Secretary.

Presidential Proclamation???National Character Counts Week

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——-
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

America's strength, even in the most challenging of times, is found in the spirit and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–National Character Counts Week.

Remarks by the President and Vice President at an Event for Chris Coons and the DSCC

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Grand Opera House …. Original article  : Remarks by the President and Vice President at an Event for Chris Coons and the DSCC.

Presidential Proclamation???National Forest Products Week

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For Immediate Release

——-
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

Since the first communities and settlements in our Nation, forests and their products have played …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Proclamation–National Forest Products Week.

‘Successful democracy in Pakistan vital for global peace’

BRUSSELS – Pakistan’s democratic progress is vital for global peace and security, the 26-member global forum Friends of Democratic Pakistan (FODP) has said.

“The success of Pakistan’s experience in developing a strong democratic system, the welfare and well-being of its people, combating extremism and terrorism and Pakistan’s economic prosperity and stability were critical for regional …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Successful democracy in Pakistan vital for global peace’.

Press Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton en Route Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Aboard Air Force One … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Press Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton en Route Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Chinese reaction to Nobel Peace Prize winner regrettable: Norway

OSLO – China’s reaction to last week’s decision to award the Nobel Peace Prize to jailed Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo was regrettable, the Norwegian government said Friday.

Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Store conveyed Oslo’s view during a meeting with China’s ambassador Tang Guaqiang, Norwegian news agency NTB reported.
Store said Norway “wishes to continue the … Read more : Chinese reaction to Nobel Peace Prize winner regrettable: Norway.

Sri Lanka assures India over devolution package (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Sri Lanka Friday assured India that it was in touch with moderate Tamil political parties to evolve “a viable power-sharing arrangement” that will meet the aspirations of the minorities.

“We have to provide political space for the spontaneous emergence of moderate Tamil leadership,” Sri Lankan Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris said …. Original article  : Sri Lanka assures India over devolution package (Second Lead).

PM’s remarks far from truth, says Nitish Kumar

PATNA – A day after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh accused Bihar of not implementing centrally-funded government schemes, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Sunday hit out and said he was “surprised” by the remarks which were “far from the truth”.

“Manmohan Singh’s remarks about the Bihar government surprised me. They are far from the truth. (Manmohan) Singh …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PM’s remarks far from truth, says Nitish Kumar.

Central funds are not Congress property: Jaitley to PM

PATNA – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley Sunday slammed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for his remark that central funds had not been properly utilised by the Bihar government, saying “central funds are not Congress property”.

Jaitley, who is Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, also said “the prime minister should not have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian enclave attacked after Bangladeshi killed

DHAKA – Police detained three people who burnt over 200 houses at an Indian enclave on the border after a group of Indians killed a Bangladeshi, a media report said Sunday.

A mob reacted violently after the Indians killed Ramjan Ali and refused to return his body in Garati, the Indian enclave, the New Age … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian enclave attacked after Bangladeshi killed.

Manmohan Singh should speak as economist, not politician: BJP

NEW DELHI – Commenting on Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh’s remarks that Bihar is not progressing despite availability of Central funds, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday said that Dr. Singh should have made that remark as an economist and not as a politician.

Addressing media here, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Arun … Original source on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh should speak as economist, not politician: BJP.

Bal Thackeray to anoint grandson into politics

MUMBAI – Nearly half a decade after anointing son Uddhav Thackeray as Shiv Sena’s executive chief, supremo Bal Thackeray will launch his grandson Aditya into politics at a Dussehra rally Sunday.

The three generations of the Thackeray clan – Bal, Uddhav and his son Aditya, 20, – shall be seen together for the first time … Read more >>>.

Tony Blair ‘took 76 gifts when he left Downing Street’

LONDON – Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair took with him a haul of gifts when he left Downing Street, including 12 expensive watches and guitars given to him by rock stars.

He could now cash in on the presents by selling them at a profit, … Original article on : Tony Blair ‘took 76 gifts when he left Downing Street’.

Development overrides caste in Bihar battle

PATNA – It is a political battle with a difference in Bihar. Although caste is still a factor, it is the cry for development that has become the main plank for assembly elections starting Thursday.

Much to the surprise of many, the cry for development has virtually sidelined other issues although caste and communities do … Read more : Development overrides caste in Bihar battle.

Good news on Kashmir soon: Gilani

LAHORE – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has congratulated his nation and the people of Kashmir on ‘international recognition’ of Pakistan’s demands on the issue, and said that people would hear good news soon.

During a meeting with AJK Prime Minister Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan, Gilani reiterated that Pakistan is committed to resolving the Kashmir …. Source article  : Good news on Kashmir soon: Gilani.

Who derailed Yechury’s chances as Kashmir interlocutor? (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – The buzz is that it was Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee – who would dearly love to keep the Marxists away from the national mainstream – who derailed CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury’s chances of being named a Kashmir interlocutor.

Before announcing the names of the three new interlocutors, including journalist Dilip Padgaonkar, to … Read more >>>.

AIADMK steps into 39th year

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu’s major opposition party AIADMK stepped into its 39th year Sunday with party cadres celebrating the day across the state by garlanding founder M.G. Ramachandran’s (MGR) statues.

At the party headquarters here, General Secretary J. Jayalalithaa garlanded MGR’s statue and distributed sweets. She also released the party’s souvenir, the first copy of … Read : AIADMK steps into 39th year.

Opposition leader asked to vacate house

DHAKA – The Bangladesh government has asked opposition leader and former prime minister Khaleda Zia to vacate the house she has lived in since 1981 — after a court ruled against her.

With this, the stage has been set for another confrontation between the government and the main opposition party.
Zia’s lawyer and Supreme Court [..] Read the original article: here.

Italy to send 1,200 more soldiers to Afghanistan

ROME – Italy wants to expand its troop presence in Afghanistan by more than a third, Italian media quoted Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa as saying Saturday during a meeting with US General David Petraeus in Milan.

“We have decided to increase our contingent in Afghanistan to 4,000 troops by the end of the year,” …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Italy to send 1,200 more soldiers to Afghanistan.

BJP denies report about Advani not canvassing in Bihar polls

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) denied the reports about the party’s top leader Lal Krishna Advani not campaigning for the candidates in the ensuing Bihar polls.

Speaking to mediapersons here on Saturday, BJP spokesperson Ravi Shankar Prasad said that certain vested interests are spreading these rumours … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BJP denies report about Advani not canvassing in Bihar polls.

Middle East states condemn new Israeli building permits

CAIRO – Criticism mounted in the Middle East Saturday of new building permits to be issued by Israel for housing units in East Jerusalem, which are widely seen as an obstruction to peace efforts in the region.

The secretary general of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Abdel-Rahman al-Attiya, described the decision to issue permits for … Read more >>>.

Pakistan reacts angrily to Indian army chief’s statement

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has reacted strongly to the statement of Indian army chief, General V.K. Singh that “Pakistan and China are major security threats for India”.

In a statement issued Saturday, Pakistan’s foreign office spokesman said the “allegations made by Indian army chief are baseless and distortion of facts”.
“We outright reject these … Original article on : Pakistan reacts angrily to Indian army chief’s statement.

‘No tinkering with security of Punjab legislators, MPs’

CHANDIGARH – Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal Saturday instructed the police chief not to tinker with the security provided to legislators and MPs.

The move comes in the backdrop of reports that security of dissident leaders of the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal and opposition parties was being withdrawn.
In … Read more >>.

Bihar polls: Nitish, Modi, Lalu seeking votes for criminals

PATNA – For a state seeking to erase the taint of corruption and lawlessness, this sure is a step backwards. Bihar, which goes to polls beginning Oct 21, will see a host of top politicians campaigning for candidates with criminal records.

Elections to the 243-seat state assembly will be held in six phases, from Oct …. Read the original article  : Bihar polls: Nitish, Modi, Lalu seeking votes for criminals.

Games over, Delhi ministers eye constituencies

NEW DELHI – After the conclusion of the Commonwealth Games, Delhi ministers now want to meet people in their constituencies.

The ministers, involved in the preparations for the Games, were left with little time in the last few months to focus on their constituencies.
Health Minister Kiran Walia said she would concentrate on her …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Games over, Delhi ministers eye constituencies.

Elect Congress for development in Bihar, says Manmohan Singh

ARARIA – Describing Congress as party of the common man, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Saturday urged people of Bihar to vote in favour of the Congress to bring the State on the development path.

Addressing an election rally ahead of the Bihar Assembly polls here, Dr …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Elect Congress for development in Bihar, says Manmohan Singh.

Badal orders probe into ransacking of ex-minister’s office

CHANDIGARH – Taking serious note of allegations of former Punjab finance minister Manpreet Singh Badal’s office being “ransacked”, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal Saturday ordered a probe into the incident.

Badal asked Chief Secretary S.C. Aggarwal to initiate an immediate inquiry, identify the culprits and ensure exemplary punishment for them.
Manpreet Badal, a nephew … Read more »»».

Bihar failed to spend funds for growth, says Sonia Gandhi

PATNA – Launching a scathing attack on the Bihar government, Congress president Sonia Gandhi Monday said the state failed to spend crores of rupees given by the central government for the welfare and development of the poor.

“It is a sad thing that the Bihar government failed to spend and utilise funds provided by …. Original article  : Bihar failed to spend funds for growth, says Sonia Gandhi.

RJD paves way for tie-up with Congress in Bihar

PATNA – The Rashtriya Janata Dal may join hands with the Congress ahead of the Bihar assembly elections beginning this week to ensure that communal forces don’t come to power, senior RJD leader Raghuvansh Prasad Singh said Monday.
“The RJD is not averse to joining hands with the Congress if the need arises,” the …. Source article  : RJD paves way for tie-up with Congress in Bihar.

Gilani urges Pak judiciary to work in tandem with govt

ISLAMABAD – Judges should work together with the government to pursue the goals of social, economic and legal justice, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani stated during his address to the nation.

“If the government and judiciary take steps together, we can administer justice to the poor people of the country. We can counter forces [..] Read the original article: here.

Pak politicians dismiss Gilani’s ‘evasive’ address to nation ‘mere eye wash’

LAHORE – Leaders of various Pakistani political parties have pointed out the lack of substance in Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani’s address to the nation, and have called it a desperate effort to win back the credibility that his government is fast losing.

Most politicians drew attention to the fact that Gilani did not … Read more »».

Mayawati to meet PM today

NEW DELHI – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati will meet Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Monday to seek a special package for flood hit districts of the state.

Mayawati had recently written three letters to the Prime Minister demanding special package for flooded areas of the state.

She had demanded … Read more >>>.

Myanmar refuses to invite foreign election observers

NAYPYITAWN – Myanmar will not allow foreign observers to monitor campaigning prior to general elections Nov 7, although foreign residents will be allowed to watch voting on polling day, the officials said Monday.
“On election day, diplomats and UN agencies will be invited to poll booths and witness voting, therefore they can … Read more »».

PM’s word ought to be respected, says Gilani

ISLAMABAD – The prime minister’s word should be “respected by everyone”, Pakistan premier Yousuf Raza Gilani said here while referring to a Supreme Court directive for a written assurance that the government would not withdraw an executive order restoring the status of superior court judges.

“When the prime minister says something, whether it is verbally … Read more »»».

MQM triumphs in Karachi by-poll

ISLAMABAD – The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has won the by-election in Pakistan’s financial hub Karachi that saw 27 people being killed and over 60 injured in poll violence, a media report said Monday.
MQM’s Saifuddin Khalid has won the seat and become a member of provincial assembly (MPA) in the by-election held at … Read : MQM triumphs in Karachi by-poll.

Solheim to visit Sri Lanka – to mend fences

NEW DELHI – Norwegian Minister Erik Solheim plans to visit Colombo in a bid to mend troubled ties with Sri Lanka, where many had come to see him and his country as sympathisers of the Tamil Tigers.

Having rubbed the current Sri Lankan leadership the wrong way despite a tightrope walking at the height …. Original source  : Solheim to visit Sri Lanka — to mend fences.

Aditya Thackeray justifies attack on Mistry’s book

MUMBAI – Aditya Thackeray, Bal Thackeray’s grandson who is set to play a larger role in Maharashtra politics, says he is not opposed to Rohinton Mistry’s Booker nominated novel “Such a Long Journey” per se but does not want it to be part of the Mumbai University syllabus.

The 20-year-old student of history at St. … Read more »»».

Nitish Kumar rebuffs PM’s criticism of Bihar Govt.

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar has downplayed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s remark that the Bihar government was not implementing the central welfare schemes.

Addressing a press conference jointly addressed with senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Arun Jaitley here, Nitish said: “I want to rectify the statement of Dr. Manmohan …. Source  : Nitish Kumar rebuffs PM’s criticism of Bihar Govt..

Bal Thackeray anoints grandson Aditya into politics

MUMBAI – Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray Sunday night formally anointed grandson Aditya into politics by presenting him a ceremonial sword as a crowd of over 200,000 cheered lustily.

A surprisingly robust and healthy looking Thackeray, accompanied by Aditya, arrived at the Shiv Sena Dussehra rally at the historic Shivaji Park grounds, even as his …. Read the original article  : here.

Prime Minister, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi attend Dussehra celebrations at Ramlila Maidan

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi attended Dussehra celebrations at the famous Ramlila Maidan here on Sunday evening.

In a symbolic gesture, the political leaders also took up bow and arrow in their hands and marked the beginning of the burning of …. Original article  : Prime Minister, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi attend Dussehra celebrations at Ramlila Maidan.

Omar should quit at the earliest: Advani

NEW DELHI – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is an “administrative failure” and the sooner he quits, the better it will be for the state and for the nation, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L.K. Advani said Sunday.

He said the demand for Abdullah’s resignation was being made on the ground that … Read more >>>.

President, Vice-President, Prime Minister attend Dussehra celebrations in Delhi’s Subash Maidan

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi attended Dussehra celebrations at the Subhash Maidan near Red Fort in the national capital on Sunday evening.

Ahead of the burning of effigies of Demon King Ravana, son Meghnath, and brother Kumbhakaran, President … Read more >>.

Haryana institutes awards for women

CHANDIGARH – The Haryana government Sunday announced institution of three awards for women, including one in the name of astronaut Kalpana Chawla who hailed from Karnal town in the state.

Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has approved the three awards which will honour those women who excel in various fields and show exemplary courage.
Finance …. Source article  : Haryana institutes awards for women.

Iran will make no compromise: Ahmadinejad

TEHRAN – Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad Sunday welcomed the resumption of nuclear talks with world powers but reiterated that Iran would make no compromise whatsoever on its nuclear programmes.

“Iran welcomes talks but the other side should not think that we will resume the talks from the position of weakness due to the sanctions (imposed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iran will make no compromise: Ahmadinejad.

Two Indian-origin MPs face suspension from Lords

LONDON – Three British lawmakers, including two Indian-origin MPs, probed over the expenses they claimed face suspension from the House of Lords, a media report said Sunday.

The trio — Lord Swaraj Paul, Lord Amir Bhatia and Bangladeshi-born Baroness Uddin — are expected to be officially recommended for censure in a statement by the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two Indian-origin MPs face suspension from Lords.

Congress appeasing minorities: RSS chief

NAGPUR – The Congress has coined terms like “Hindu and saffron terrorism” to appease and consolidate its minority vote bank, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said Sunday.

Speaking at the annual Dassehra function here, Bhagwat alleged that those who speak of secularism actually create a rift among different communities.
“Any attempts to …. Source article  : Congress appeasing minorities: RSS chief.

India, Germany to sign cultural pact, push UN reforms

NEW DELHI – Armed with newly-won rotating seats in the UN Security Council, India and Germany will Monday give a fresh impetus to their bid for permanent seats in the world body and sign a pact on celebrating cultural festivals to bolster their partnership.

German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle arrived here Sunday on a … Original source on Gaea Times at : India, Germany to sign cultural pact, push UN reforms.

Nitish reaches out to upper castes in poll-bound Bihar

PATNA – Wooing the upper castes ahead of the Bihar assembly polls, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Tuesday promised to set up a commission to study the problems faced by the upper caste poor and launch welfare schemes for them if his Janata Dal-United (JD-U) party is voted back to power.

The opposition Congress promptly termed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nitish reaches out to upper castes in poll-bound Bihar.

Lok Sabha Speaker to meet party leaders Wednesday

NEW DELHI – Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar will meet leaders of political parties Wednesday to ensure the “smooth functioning” of the house during the winter session of parliament beginning Nov 9, an official said.

“This is not the customary meeting with the leaders ahead of the commencement of the winter session. This is to …. Read the original article  : Lok Sabha Speaker to meet party leaders Wednesday.

Nitish battles for supremacy in Round one (Bihar Curtainraiser – Phase 1)

PATNA – Development, caste and minority issues — all three factors will be in play Thursday as 47 constituencies in Bihar’s flood-prone belts go to the polls in the first of the six rounds, with the stakes perhaps highest for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

About 10.6 million voters will decide the fate of 635 candidates …. Source  : Nitish battles for supremacy in Round one (Bihar Curtainraiser – Phase 1).

CWG scam: Income tax raids on BJP leader’s house

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and industrialist Sudhanshu Mittal and his nephew Vinay Mittal’s residences were raided on Tuesday by Income Tax (IT) officials in connection with the ongoing Commonwealth Games probe.

Both, Sudhanshu and Vinay, are connected with the Deepali consortium, a supplier of sports equipment, which was awarded the contract … Read more >>>.

`Secularism’ to be restored in Bangladesh constitution

DHAKA – Bangladesh will shortly restore the word ’secularism’ in its constitution. However, it will remain an Islamic state, allowing functioning of religion-based parties, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said.

The government will reprint the constitution following a Supreme Court directive to restore ’secularism’, but no political party bearing names of religions would be banned, … Read : `Secularism’ to be restored in Bangladesh constitution.

Advani to address three public meetings in Bihar

PATNA – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L K Advani will address three public meetings in constituencies that go to polls in Bihar on October 24.

Advani would address public meetings at Motihari, Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga.

BJP national spokesmen Shahnawaz Hussain and Rajiv Pratap Rudy would also …. Original source  : Advani to address three public meetings in Bihar.

Rahul Gandhi to campaign again in Bihar

PATNA – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi will campaign for the second time in Bihar Thursday ahead of the second phase of assembly elections.

Rahul will address election rallies in Sitamarhi, Muzaffarpur and Samastipur districts.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi have toured Bihar, launching scathing attacks on the Nitish Kumar … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rahul Gandhi to campaign again in Bihar.

Nitin Gadkari slams central govt. over CWG graft charges

PUNE – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Nitin Gadkari slammed the Central Government over alleged graft charges in the recently-concluded XIX Commonwealth Games.

Speaking at a press conference here on Monday, Gadkari said: “CWG Organising Committee chief Suresh Kalmadi had a budget of Rs 1,600 crore. Whatever he did …. Original article  : Nitin Gadkari slams central govt. over CWG graft charges.

When did this Pakistani lawmaker actually graduate?

ISLAMABAD – A woman lawmaker in Pakistan’s Punjab assembly holds a graduation degree that was issued in 1991, but she insists that she graduated in 1996.

She is refusing to appear before officials who are probing fake degrees.
Seemal Kamran, a member of the Punjab Assembly, is among those few lawmakers who have been …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PM to lay foundation stone of Tata research institute in Hyderabad

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will lay the foundation stone of Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) here today.

The institute will commence its operations from the next academic year. The state Government has allotted 209 acres of land to the institute in the premises of Hyderabad University.

During his day-long visit, Dr … Read more »».

Twelve days of Indian culture in Argentine capital

BUENOS AIRES – From beautiful textiles to classical dance and the best of Indian cusine, the Argentine capital will host 12 days of Indian culture in a big way next month that will see several Argentine artists showcasing their proficiency in Indian dance and music too.

The first day of the Festival of India Nov …. Source article  : Twelve days of Indian culture in Argentine capital.

Readout of President Obama’s call with Prime Minister David Cameron

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President Obama and Prime Minister Cameron spoke by telephone today.  The Prime Minister briefed the President on the U.K. National Security Strategy that was …. Original source  : Readout of President Obama’s call with Prime Minister David Cameron.

Chilean president brings rock souvenir to Britain’s queen

LONDON – Chilean President Sebastian Pinera Monday presented Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II with a piece of rock from the bottom of the copper mine where 33 men were rescued last week.

Handing over the memento in a presentation box at Buckingham Palace, Pinera gave the monarch a personal account of the rescue mission, which the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chilean president brings rock souvenir to Britain’s queen.

Statement by the Press Secretary

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On Monday, October 18, 2010, the President signed into law:
 
S. 3802, the “Mount Stevens and Ted Stevens Icefield Designation Act,” which designates a mountain [..] Read the original article: here.

Remarks by the President at White House Science Fair

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East Room … Read more : Remarks by the President at White House Science Fair.

President Obama to Award Medal of Honor

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On November 16, President Barack Obama will award Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta, U.S. Army, the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry.  Staff Sergeant Giunta … Read : President Obama to Award Medal of Honor.

Lalu derailed Bihar when in power: Congress

NEW DELHI – In a no-holds barred attack on Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad, the Congress Monday said he had “derailed” Bihar during his party’s 15 years in power, but he was unable to do the same with the railway ministry as the central government system was strong.

We respect Lalu-ji personally. But …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Lalu derailed Bihar when in power: Congress.

Set up JPC, Shunglu panel should probe PMO’s role: BJP

NEW DELHI – Attacking the government over the Games allegations, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Monday said Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and the central government were “equally guilty” of irregularities and demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe.

BJP spokesman Tarun Vijay said the Shunglu committee appointed by the government to probe the allegations …. Source article  : Set up JPC, Shunglu panel should probe PMO’s role: BJP.

Iran ready to include nuclear dispute in talks

TEHRAN – President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s deputy Monday said that Iran would be willing to address the dispute over its nuclear programme in forthcoming talks, even though the Iranian leader has so far declined to discuss it with world powers.

“We are ready to also discuss the fuel swap issue at the talks with the 5+1 …. Source  : Iran ready to include nuclear dispute in talks.

Mayawati wants Rs.2351 cr assistance from Centre for UP’s flood hit areas

NEW DELHI – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati on Monday called on Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in the capital to seek Rs.2,351 crore as a relief package from the Centre for the flood-ravaged areas of the State.

Talking to reporters … Read : Mayawati wants Rs.2351 cr assistance from Centre for UP’s flood hit areas.

Afghan election body voids 1 million votes

KABUL – Afghanistan’s Independent Election Commission said Wednesday that it has thrown out 1.3 million ballots cast in the September parliamentary elections, thereby nullifying more than 20 percent of votes due to fraud and electoral violations.

Fazel Ahmad Manawi, the IEC’s chairman, put the total turnout for the elections at 5.6 million people. The commission …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Amritsar goes ahead with plans to welcome Obama

AMRITSAR – There may be uncertainty about US President Barack Obama visiting the Golden Temple, but Punjab’s ‘holy city’ is going ahead with plans to roll out the red carpet — security is being intensified, a cleanliness drive is on and gurdwara authorities say they have no problems in what he uses to cover … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Amritsar goes ahead with plans to welcome Obama.

Attack on minister reflects discontent, says Chhattisgarh Congress

RAIPUR – A day after youths threw black ink on union minister V. Narayanasamy here, Chhattisgarh Congress leaders Wednesday condemned the act but pointed out that it reflected the discontent against him as state party in-charge.

“The act was no doubt the result of a belief within the party in Chhattisgarh that Narayanasamy is … Original article on : Attack on minister reflects discontent, says Chhattisgarh Congress.

Mamata Banerjee wants joint forces to quit West Bengal’s Maoist-hit areas

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee has said her party would continue to demand withdrawal of the joint security forces from West Bengal’s Maoist-affected districts.

Talking to reporters here, Banerjee said she had repeatedly brought to the notice of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and West Bengal Governor …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Canada gets its first Muslim mayor

CALGARY – Canada has created history by electing its first Muslim mayor.

Naheed Nenshi, a Harvard-educated Ismaili Muslim, defeated two white candidates to become the mayor of Calgary Monday night.
A Conservative (right-wing) stronghold in Canada, Calgary is also the hometown of Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
Interestingly, the 38-year-old Nenshi defeated one of the … Read more : Canada gets its first Muslim mayor.

Modi goes for kill in panchayat polls, Congress edgy

GANDHINAGAR – Chief Minister Narendra Modi is going for the kill in the panchayat polls in rural Gujarat Thursday, heady from the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) victory in six key municipal corporations over main rival Congress.

Twentyfour district panchayats, 208 taluka panchayats and 53 municipalities making for a voting population of 2.48 …. Read the original article  : here.

Oz PM Gillard says trade union official’s 9/11 comment ‘ stupid and wrong’

CANBERRA – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has dismissed as “stupid and wrong” a senior union official’s belief that the 9/11 attacks were a conspiracy, but refused to discipline him.

Kevin Bracken, the president of the Victorian Trades Hall and secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia, sparked anger this morning after claiming the attacks … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz PM Gillard says trade union official’s 9/11 comment ‘ stupid and wrong’.

VHP seers meet in Ayodhya to decide on road ahead

AYODHYA – The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has convened a meeting of leading seers here Wednesday to decide on the road ahead after the verdict on the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute.

The 41-member central committee of seers will assemble at the Karsewak Puram camp. Amongst those participating in the meet will be Jyotishpeeth Shankaracharya Swami Vasudevanand … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : VHP seers meet in Ayodhya to decide on road ahead.

Rebel JD-U MP warns against Nitish’s return to power

PATNA – A day ahead of the first round of the six-phase Bihar assembly elections, a rebel leader of the ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) Wednesday appealed to farmers not to vote for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

In an appeal published in local Hindi dailies, Rajeev Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh cautioned people, particularly …. Source article  : Rebel JD-U MP warns against Nitish’s return to power.

Bangladesh media slams Hasina stand on secularism

DHAKA – Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s move to restore the word ’secularism’ in the constitution while allowing political activity by religion-based parties has received mixed response from the media.

New Age newspaper Wednesday called it “a poignant example of political opportunism”, while the New Nation asked whether the court, and not parliament, was the real …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bangladesh media slams Hasina stand on secularism.

Obama’s India visit will have tangible results: US

WASHINGTON – Underscoring the “significance” that US puts on its “important economic relationship” with India, the White House hopes to have “some tangible results” from President Barack Obama’s visit to India.

“Look, obviously, this is an important relationship,” White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs told reporters Tuesday when asked how the President was preparing for …. Original source  : Obama’s India visit will have tangible results: US.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 10/19/2010

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James S. Brady Press …. Read the original article  : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 10/19/2010.

Executive Order???White House Initiative On Educational Excellence For Hispanics

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By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, to restore the country … Read more : Executive Order–White House Initiative On Educational Excellence For Hispanics.

Statement by the President on Settlement Agreement in the Native American Farmers Lawsuit Against USDA

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Today, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Justice announced a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs in the Keepseagle class action lawsuit.  This …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Statement by the President on Settlement Agreement in the Native American Farmers Lawsuit Against USDA.

Remarks by the President at Signing of Executive Order for the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans

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East Room …. Source  : Remarks by the President at Signing of Executive Order for the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans.

President Obama Signs Executive Order Renewing the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics

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In a ceremony in the East Room of the White House today, President Obama signed an Executive Order to renew and enhance the White …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indonesia, UAE discuss bilateral ties

Jakarta, Oct 19 (IANS/WAM) Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates Tuesday discussed ways to boost bilateral ties and signed an agreement on visa waiver for holders of diplomatic, special and service passports.

After a meeting with his Indonesian counterpart Marty Natalegawa, UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised the importance of …. Read the original article  : Indonesia, UAE discuss bilateral ties.

Now Dikshit campaigns for Congress in Bihar

NEW DELHI – After Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and party general secretary Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit is now campaigning for the Congress in Bihar.

Dikshit is on a two-day tour of the state from Tuesday and is focusing on the areas scheduled to go for polls in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Now Dikshit campaigns for Congress in Bihar.

Badal defends finance minister’s sacking

CHANDIGARH – Defending his decision to sack Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Badal, Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal Tuesday said that he tried his best to stop the minister, who is his nephew, from straying from the party line and giving “irresponsible statements” in the media.

Manpreet Badal was sacked from the council of ministers recently … Read : Badal defends finance minister’s sacking.

TDP stages protest to meet Prime Minister in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Telugu Desam Party (TDP) staged a protest here on Tuesday, demanding a meeting with the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who was on a day visit to the city.

Senior TDP leader Devender Goud, said that they … Read more »».

Battle lines drawn for Kerala local bodies polls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) are set to battle it out in two-phased local bodies polls in Kerala starting Saturday.

The first phase would be held in seven districts – Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kasargode and Kannur – Saturday. Campaigning ends Thursday.
The second phase … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Battle lines drawn for Kerala local bodies polls.

PM Gillard opens new counter-terrorism centre in Oz capital Canberra

CANBERRA – Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Attorney General Robert McClelland formally opened Australia’s first counter-terrorism control center here on Thursday, even as the country’s spy chief David Irvine revealed that hundreds of potential terrorist attacks on Australian interests are under investigation.

According to the Daily Telegraph, the opening of the counter-terrorism control center took place …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PM Gillard opens new counter-terrorism centre in Oz capital Canberra.

Burns meets Krishna to firm up Obama’s India agenda

NEW DELHI – Visiting US Undersecretary of State William Burns and chief pointsperson for South Asia Robert Blake Thursday met External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna to firm up deliverables that could include the easing of high-tech exports during the visit of US President Barack Obama next month.

Krishna conveyed India’s concerns over curbs on … Read : Burns meets Krishna to firm up Obama’s India agenda.

Non-tribal group calls shutdown in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Over 200 people trying to enforce shutdown were arrested in Jharkhand Thursday, after a non-tribal backward community group called a strike to protest the Nov 17 panchayat polls being held under a legislation that reserves posts for tribals.

“The polls will take away rights of the non-tribals, who constitute 74 percent of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Simians make a monkey out of elections in Saharsa

SAHARSA – It’s all about monkeys in Bihar’s Saharsa constituency where many who voted in the first round of the assembly elections Thursday admitted candidly that the candidate who promised to trap the simians would also catch their votes.

Voters in nearly two dozen villages in this flood prone constituency in Kosi belt said monkeys …. Original source  : Simians make a monkey out of elections in Saharsa.

China scale gets heavier in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Despite Nepal’s ruling parties and the opposition Maoists saying they want to keep equidistance from their two neighbours, India and China, the China scale has begun to grow heavier once again with several high-level official as well as personal visits to the communist republic.

While Nepal’s peace process remains in the doldrums with …. Source  : China scale gets heavier in Nepal.

Bihar elections proceed peacefully (Second Lead)

PATNA – The first phase of the Bihar assembly elections that began Thursday morning in 47 constituencies in eight districts in the state’s flood prone belts proceeded peacefully except for reports of the electronic voting machines malfunctioning in some places.

In the first three hours of polling till 10 a.m., 12-14 percent turnout was …. Read the original article  : Bihar elections proceed peacefully (Second Lead).

Look at India’s EVM awareness campaign, says Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – The introduction of electronic voting machines (EVMs) is a right step as “transparency has never been a high point in Pakistan’s electoral history”, said a leading daily, citing the India example to stress that effective media campaigns can help generate awareness about the procedure.

The Dawn said in an editorial that the lack …. Source  : Look at India’s EVM awareness campaign, says Pakistani daily.

Obama to visit Pakistan only in 2011

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has told Pakistan that he would visit their country next year and wouldn’t be stopping there on a trip next month to Asia including a visit to India.

A White House statement said Obama conveyed this during a meeting with the Pakistani delegation attending this week’s US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue to …. Source article  : Obama to visit Pakistan only in 2011.

Congress wins Goa by-poll

PANAJI – Congress candidate Vishwajeet Rane Thursday won the Valpoi legislative assembly by-poll, defeating his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) opponent by a margin of over 8,000 votes.

Rane, a cabinet minister in the Congress-led coalition government in Goa, got 11,642 votes while BJP’s Santosh Haldankar received only 3,237 votes.
The by-poll, held Oct 18, … Read : Congress wins Goa by-poll.

Election official dies in Bihar

PATNA – A government school teacher on election duty in Bihar’s Katihar district died of heart attack Thursday, police said.

Mohd. Habib, a presiding officer at a polling booth in Pranpur, died after he complained of chest pain and giddiness.
… Read more »».

Obama schedule for India isn’t ‘finalised’

WASHINGTON – Amid reports that President Barack Obama has dropped plans to visit the Golden temple in Amritsar to avoid wearing a headscarf that could make him look like a Muslim, the White House has stressed his schedule isn’t “finalised.”

“We have not finalised the schedule for Asia,” press secretary Robert Gibbs told reporters Wednesday …. Source article  : Obama schedule for India isn’t ‘finalised’.

Bihar elections begin amid tight security

PATNA – The first phase of Bihar assembly elections began Thursday amid tight security in 47 constituencies across the Kosi-Seemanchal and Mithilanchal belts.

Voters were seen queuing up outside the polling booths.
“It is morning time so the voters’ turnout is thin,” said an official at the chief electoral officer’s office here.
About 10.6 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bihar elections begin amid tight security.

Bihar elections begin

PATNA – The first phase of Bihar assembly elections began Thursday in 47 constituencies across the Kosi-Seemanchal and Mithilanchal belts.

About 10.6 million voters in the region are eligible to decide the fate of 635 candidates in the first lot of the 243 assembly constituencies, most of them in rural areas.
The polling will … Read more >>.

US, Pakistan start strategic talks

WASHINGTON – The US and Pakistan Wednesday launched a three-day strategic dialogue here, Xinhua reported.

It is co-chaired by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.
Matters of security, economy and agriculture are high on the agenda. Thirteen working groups are taking part.
The talks are designed to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US, Pakistan start strategic talks.

Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs Aboard Air Force One en route Portland, Oregon

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Aboard Air Force One … Original article on : Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs Aboard Air Force One en route Portland, Oregon.

Myanmar’s poll process deeply flawed: UN

NEW YORK – The lack of the freedoms of expression, assembly and association in Myanmar has made the electoral process in that country “deeply flawed”, a UN human rights expert said Wednesday.

Tomas Ojea Quintana, who visited Myanmar three times but was refused another visit in August, told the UN General Assembly that he was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Readout of President Obama’s Meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan

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President Obama met with his national security team for his monthly meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan for nearly ninety minutes today. The meeting began … Original article on : Readout of President Obama’s Meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Remarks by the First Lady at the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards Ceremony

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East Room … Original source on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the First Lady at the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards Ceremony.

Suggestion to stop House telecast during disruptions

NEW DELHI – Several suggestions, including stopping telecast of parliament proceedings during disruptions, were made at an all-party meeting convened by Speaker Meira Kumar here Wednesday, sources said.

Among the suggestions given were that telecast of proceedings should be stopped during disruptions, important bills should not be passed without discussion and more issues should … Read more »».

Mobile phones seized from former RJD MP Shahabuddin in Siwan jail

SIWAN – A massive raid in the Bihar’s Siwan Jail led to the recovery of three mobile phones allegedly from Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Mohammad Shahabuddin, who has been convicted in seven criminal cases.

According to sources, a team of district officials carried out the raid in the jail following a tip-off that …. Read the original article  : Mobile phones seized from former RJD MP Shahabuddin in Siwan jail.

Baracka Flacka – Barack Obama Parody Rocks Net

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Popularity of President Barack Obama seems to be sky rising. A parody video, composed by directors Martin Usher and James Davis is just a way to show Obama fondness, which in turns can be called Obama Obsession.
The Barack Obama video, titled as ‘Baracka Flacka’ is a moderated version of Waka Flocka …. Original source  : Baracka Flacka – Barack Obama Parody Rocks Net.

Karnataka reveals perils of fast-tracking to political power (Letter from Bangalore)

BANGALORE – Karnataka is fast acquiring the dubious distinction of being a state where frequent by-polls to the assembly are a norm. The blame in large measure falls on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which came to power for the first time in Karnataka in May 2008 and saw it as a gateway to rule …. Source article  : Karnataka reveals perils of fast-tracking to political power (Letter from Bangalore).

Bihar polls: 104 multi-millionaires, 219 criminals in next two rounds

PATNA – Against only 36 multi-millionaires in the last assembly elections, there are over 100 multi-millionaires in the second and third phases of the ongoing Bihar polls, a report by two NGOs has said. It adds that 219 candidates have criminal records.

The Association of Democratic Reforms and the National Election Watch said Thursday that …. Original article  : Bihar polls: 104 multi-millionaires, 219 criminals in next two rounds.

Congress hopes minorities will turn the tide in Bihar

NEW DELHI – Desperate to erase the shame of having won only nine seats in 2005, the Congress hopes its fortunes in Bihar will improve this time because it has fielded more Muslim candidates and also tried to expand the party’s social base.

Congress leaders said Muslim candidates were contesting in about 50 of 243 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Congress hopes minorities will turn the tide in Bihar.

Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs Aboard Air Force One en route San Francisco, CA

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Aboard Air Force One
En Route San Francisco, California

2:57 P.M. PDT

MR. GIBBS:  It’s a little bumpy.  I just want to — just a couple of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs Aboard Air Force One en route San Francisco, CA.

President Obama Signs Wisconsin Disaster Declaration

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The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of Wisconsin and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts … Read more >>.

President Obama Signs Nebraska Disaster Declaration

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The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of Nebraska and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Signs Nebraska Disaster Declaration.

Remarks by the President at a Rally for Senator Murray in Seattle, Washington

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University of Washington … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the President at a Rally for Senator Murray in Seattle, Washington.

Remarks by the President to Overflow Crowd at University of Washington

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University of Washington …. Read the original article  : Remarks by the President to Overflow Crowd at University of Washington.

Statement by the President on the Passing of Paul Miller

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I was saddened to learn of the passing of one of my staffers and a leader in the disability rights movement – Paul Miller.  …. Source  : Statement by the President on the Passing of Paul Miller.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts

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WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:

Pamela L. Spratlen, Ambassador to the Kyrgyz … Read more >>.

Remarks by the President in a Discussion on Women and the Economy in Seattle, Washington

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Foss Residence, Seattle, Washington …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Remarks by the President in a Discussion on Women and the Economy in Seattle, Washington.

Punjab legislator alleges harassment by Badal government

CHANDIGARH – Shiromani Akali Dal legislator Manjinder Singh Kang Thursday accused his party of harassing him and pressuring him to stop supporting former finance minister Manpreet Singh Badal and also alleged the Punjab government had withdrawn the extra security provided to him as mandated by court.

However, the state government late in the evening refuted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indo-US ties looking at bigger Asian role: former US official

NEW DELHI – The India-US relationship is moving beyond the subcontinent as the two are looking for cooperation in the Asian context, a former US state department official said here Thursday.

“The relationship is now Asian and less South Asian,” said Evan Feigenbaum, who left the US state department in 2009 as deputy assistant secretary … Original article on : Indo-US ties looking at bigger Asian role: former US official.

Background on the President’s Event in Seattle, Washington Today

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DISCUSSION WITH THE FOSS FAMILY & BACKYARD EVENT
Seattle, Washington

Today, the President will meet with a local family at their home before hosting a discussion … Read more »».

Rahul Gandhi is a leader after Jayaprakash Narayan: Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress Thursday drew a subtle parallel between late socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan and Rahul Gandhi, saying the party general secretary has in the former’s fashion focused on the youth to address their needs, concerns and future.

There is an undercurrent for the Congress in Bihar. After J.P. Narayan, Rahul Gandhi …. Read the original article  : here.

Partnership for Sustainable Communities Awards Grants to Build Infrastructure Nationwide

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HUD, DOT and EPA Work Together Through Coordinated Grant Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today at the National Press Club, administration officials highlighted recent grants released …. Original article  : Partnership for Sustainable Communities Awards Grants to Build Infrastructure Nationwide.

54 percent peaceful polling in Bihar first phase (Roundup)

PATNA/NEW DELHI – Fifty-four percent polling was recorded Thursday in the first phase of Bihar’s staggered assembly elections that passed off peacefully barring “minor clashes”, officials said.

The elections were held in 47 constituencies spread across eight districts. Around 10 million people were eligible to exercise their franchise in the first round held in …. Original source  : 54 percent peaceful polling in Bihar first phase (Roundup).

Akali Dal legislator says government harassing him

CHANDIGARH – Shiromani Akali Dal legislator Manjinder Singh Kang Thursday accused his party of harassing him and pressuring him to stop supporting former finance minister Manpreet Singh Badal.

Manpreet was sacked from the Punjab cabinet last week and expelled from the party Wednesday after his statements on doing away with subsidies and debt write-offs …. Original source  : Akali Dal legislator says government harassing him.

After Maoist attack, poll time changed in Bihar district

PATNA – The fear of more Maoist violence has led the Election Commission to change the poll timing in Bihar’s Sheohar district, a day after Maoist guerrillas triggered a landmine blast, killing six policemen ahead of the second phase of assembly elections Sunday.

Polling will now be held between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m instead …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : After Maoist attack, poll time changed in Bihar district.

Election Commission Of Gujarat Investigates EVM Disfunctions

AHMEDABAD, (GaeaTimes.com)- The Congress, on Thursday took their wrath upon the Gujarat Chief Minister’s office as they said that the electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the Panchayat Election, monitored its tampering. The Congress, therefore asked the election commission to order a probe against Chief Minister Narendra Modi’s office.
Congress spokesman Mohan Prakash said that the Congress … Original article on : Election Commission Of Gujarat Investigates EVM Disfunctions.

French parliament approves Sarkozy’s pension reform

LONDON – French parliament has approved President Nicolas Sarkozy’s pension overhaul plan, which has caused a wave of protests in the country.

The senate, the upper house of the French parliament, Friday voted 177 to 153 to approve measures, including a rise in the official retirement age from 60 to 62, The Guardian newspaper reported. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : French parliament approves Sarkozy’s pension reform.

Moderate polling in Kerala, election official dies

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Moderate and peaceful polling was under way in the first phase of the Kerala local bodies elections in seven districts Saturday even as a polling official died after developing uneasiness, officials said.

The first phase of polls are being held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kasargode and Kannur distict. Polling began at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Moderate polling in Kerala, election official dies.

The Congress is the best friend of the Thackerays (Comment)

The rise of GenNext in Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray’s Mumbai household is unlikely to bring any change to the family’s mean-minded parochial politics. As much is clear from the first boorish act of Balasaheb’s grandson, Aditya, as head of the patriarchal party’s youth wing.

By forcing Mumbai University’s vice-chancellor to withdraw the Canada-based Parsi … Read more >>.

A long relationship ends in Punjab’s first family (Letter From Chandigarh)

CHANDIGARH – In Punjab’s ruling Shiromani Akali Dal, personal and political factors have driven a wedge between members of Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal’s family. The expulsion of Manpreet Singh Badal, nephew of the chief minister, from the Akali Dal Wednesday brought a decades-long relationship to a dead end for both sides, with each charting …. Read the original article  : A long relationship ends in Punjab’s first family (Letter From Chandigarh).

Sonia, Rahul to campaign for Bihar polls again

PATNA – Congress president Sonia Gandhi and her son, party general secretary Rahul Gandhi, will campaign in Bihar for the third and fourth phases of the assembly polls, party leaders said Saturday.

Rahul Gandhi will campaign for the third time in Bihar Oct 25 ahead of the third phase of assembly elections Oct 28. He … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sonia, Rahul to campaign for Bihar polls again.

US rejects Pakistan call to intervene in Kashmir issue

WASHINGTON – Rejecting Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s call to President Barack Obama to raise the Kashmir issue during his India visit, the United States has reiterated it’s a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

“Kashmir is an issue that we believe needs to be resolved between Pakistan and India,” State Department spokesman P. …. Source article  : US rejects Pakistan call to intervene in Kashmir issue.

Remarks by the President at Los Angeles “Moving America Forward” Rally

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Location: 

University of Southern California … Read more >>>.

Letter from the President Regarding the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo

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Dear Madam Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:)
Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency … Original source on Gaea Times at : Letter from the President Regarding the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Notice from the President Regarding the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo

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On October 27, 2006, by Executive Order 13413, the President declared a national emergency with respect to the situation in or in relation to … Read more >>.

Remarks by the President at an Event for Senator Boxer in Los Angeles, California

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12:38 P.M. PDT
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you! Thank you, Los Angeles!  Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you so much.  Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you.  … Original source on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the President at an Event for Senator Boxer in Los Angeles, California.

Clinton condemns WikiLeaks pending release of Iraq documents

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton Friday condemned WikiLeaks apparent plans to release hundreds of thousands of classified documents related to the war in Iraq.

Clinton said the leaking of the documents should be condemned in the “most clear terms” because it could place US soldiers and other personnel in danger and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Statement by the President on the Passing of Bishop Arthur M. Brazier

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Michelle and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our dear friend, a stalwart of the city of Chicago, and one …. Source  : Statement by the President on the Passing of Bishop Arthur M. Brazier.

Presidential Proclamation???United Nations Day

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For Immediate Release

UNITED NATIONS DAY, 2010

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Sixty-five years ago, 51 nations came together in the aftermath of one …. Original article  : Presidential Proclamation–United Nations Day.

Indian state will not allow its authority to be challenged: PM on naxalism

NEW DELHI – Describing naxalism as a grave threat to national security, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today asserted that the Indian State cannot and will not allow its authority to be challenged.

Addressing at the Golden Jubilee function of the National Defence College in … Read : Indian state will not allow its authority to be challenged: PM on naxalism.

India-Japan conclude negotiations on CEPA, but agreement not to be signed during PM’s visit

NEW DELHI – India and Japan will announce the conclusion of negotiations of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) during Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s three-day visit to Japan which begins on Monday. However, the final agreement will not be signed during …. Original article  : India-Japan conclude negotiations on CEPA, but agreement not to be signed during PM’s visit.

Lalli denies impropriety in payments to SIS Live

NEW DELHI – Prasar Bharati Chief Executive Officer B.S. Lalli has denied impropriety in payments to SIS Live, a Britain-based company which was given the contract to cover the Commonwealth Games.

Referring to allegations that he overruled suggestions of withholding payments to SIS Live till the company was investigated, Lalli said whatever had been … Original article on : Lalli denies impropriety in payments to SIS Live.

Mumbai readies for Obama, details still under wraps

MUMBAI – Though India’s commercial capital is being prepared for the much-anticipated visit by US President Barack Obama early next month, the details of his two-day programme are yet to be finalised.

Speaking to media persons here Friday afternoon, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan said the presidential tour programme “is not yet finalised.”
“At this stage, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mumbai readies for Obama, details still under wraps.

Pakistan asks Obama ‘redeem the pledge’ on Kashmir

WASHINGTON – Even as the US made clear that it considers Kashmir a bilateral issue, Pakistan Friday bluntly asked President Barack Obama to intervene during his India visit and “redeem the pledge” he made as a candidate.

“President Obama has always understood the importance of a Kashmir solution,” Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said …. Read the original article  : here.

Brisk voting in Bihar despite Maoist attacks (Afternoon Lead)

PATNA – Millions voted in 45 constituencies in the second phase of assembly elections in Bihar Sunday despite two attacks by Maoists who have called for an election boycott.

Balloting began on a low key early in the morning but picked up later, officials here said. By afternoon, 31 percent of the 9.8 million eligible … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brisk voting in Bihar despite Maoist attacks (Afternoon Lead).

WikiLeaks Afghan War Diary Faces Criticism

WASHINGTON (Gaea Times.com) WikiLeaks is under strong criticism from the United States government, the British Defense ministry and the Iraqi Prime Minister’s Office over the release of large number of secret documents of Iraq war. The new document revelation comes after the posting of almost 90,000 secret documents in July on the Afghan war. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks Afghan War Diary Faces Criticism.

The desi who’s who in Obama administration (To go with Obama visit: All the president’s desis)

WASHINGTON – A number of Indian Americans have made their mark in the Obama administration.

Rajiv Shah – USAID administrator
Aneesh Chopra – first chief technology officer
Vivek Kundra – chief information officer
Anish Goel – senior staffer of the National Security Council
Vikram Singh – senior defence advisor to Richard Holbrooke, special …. Original source  : The desi who’s who in Obama administration (To go with Obama visit: All the president’s desis).

Season of hope for Congress wannabes (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – Congress hopefuls are busy trying to impress party chief Sonia Gandhi and her son and party general secretary Rahul Gandhi. And why not?

With the buzz of an imminent cabinet expansion growing louder, ambitious Congress hopefuls are keeping their fingers crossed. They are also eagerly looking forward to a special session of … Original article on : Season of hope for Congress wannabes (Capital Buzz).

Strategic partnership with Japan important for peace, stability in Asia, world: PM

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Sunday said that a strategic and global partnership between India and Japan is important for peace, prosperity and stability in Asia and the world.

In a statement issued ahead of his departure on a three-nation tour to Japan, Malaysia and Vietnam, Dr. Singh described Japan as … Original source on Gaea Times at : Strategic partnership with Japan important for peace, stability in Asia, world: PM.

Sherry Rehman served notice for indiscipline

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has issued show-cause notice to former information minister Sherry Rehman for indiscipline after she violated the party’s decision to boycott a media group.

The PPP Saturday also suspended the membership of Senator Safdar Abbasi. Rehman and Abassi are both members of the partys central executive committee, Dawn cited … Original article on : Sherry Rehman served notice for indiscipline.

Maoist violence in Bihar as polling under way

PATNA – Maoists Sunday abducted four polling officials and released them in an hour in Bihar’s Sitamarhi district and also attempted to ransack a polling station during the second phase of the assembly elections.

“The Maoists released the kidnapped officials after one hour,” a Sitamarhi district police official said, adding that the incident took … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoist violence in Bihar as polling under way.

India-Japan relations vital for Asian stability, says PM

NEW DELHI – Growing strategic partnership between India and Japan is vital for peace, prosperity and stability in Asia and the world, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Sunday on the eve of his departure to Japan, Malaysia and Vietnam.

In a statement, the prime minister also said that he expected his trip to Malaysia to … Original article on : India-Japan relations vital for Asian stability, says PM.

PM leaves for three-nation Asia tour

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Sunday left for a three-nation tour of Japan, Malaysia and Vietnam to bolster economic ties with partners in East Asia and strengthen India’s presence in the region.

The first stop of the weeklong trip is Tokyo, where the prime minister will spend three days for the annual summit …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PM leaves for three-nation Asia tour.

Voting begins for second phase of Bihar polls (Second Lead)

PATNA – The second phase of the Bihar assembly elections began in 45 constituencies spread across the Tirhut-Mithilanchal belt Sunday amid reports of Maoist violence in Sitamarhi district.

According to initial reports from Sitamarhi district, Maoists attempted to ransack a polling station and also abducted four officials of a polling booth. The kidnapped officials were … Read more >>.

Voting begins for second phase of Bihar polls

PATNA – The second phase of the Bihar assembly elections began Sunday in 45 constituencies spread across the Tirhut-Mithilanchal belt where the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal-Lok Janshakti Party have a strong base.

Voting began at 7 a.m. amid tight security. A total of 99,49,873 voters are eligible to vote in the second phase that will … Read more : Voting begins for second phase of Bihar polls.

Second phase of Bihar polls begins

PATNA – The second phase of the Bihar assembly elections began Sunday in 45 constituencies spread across the Tirhut-Mithilanchal belt.

A total of 99,49,873 voters are eligible to vote in the second phase that will decide the fate of 623 candidates. Most of the 9,952 polling booths are in the rural areas.
Balloting will take … Read more >>>.

Barbados PM dies of cancer

BRIDGETOWN – Barbados Prime Minister David Thompson died Saturday at his home in Saint Philip, a media report said. He was suffering from cancer.

David John Howard Thompson, 48, had begun treatment for pancreatic cancer in March this year. He was diagnosed with a malignant tumour, Prensa Latina reported.
Because of his critical condition, he … Read : Barbados PM dies of cancer.

BJP’s next national executive in Guwahati

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to hold its next meeting of national executive in December at Guwahati, party sources said.

The meeting, expected to be held Dec 18-19, will pass resolution on the political situation of the country. An economic resolution will also be adopted.
The sources said the …. Original article  : BJP’s next national executive in Guwahati.

BJP sweeps Gujarat local bodies elections

GANDHINAGAR – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swept the local bodies elections bagging 21 of the 24 district panchayats, 162 of the 208 taluka panchayats and 41 of the 53 municipalities in Gujarat Saturday.

On Oct 12, the BJP retained the municipal corporations of Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, Surat, Jamnagar and Bhavnagar.
As the Congress slipped …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP sweeps Gujarat local bodies elections.

CPI-M terrorising people to remain in power: Mamata

KOLKATA – Trinamool Congress chief and Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee Saturday alleged that West Bengal’s ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) was terrorising and killing people to remain in power.

“The CPI-M will have to give answer to the people of the state for their misrule in the state for last 34 years. They …. Read the original article  : CPI-M terrorising people to remain in power: Mamata.

Congress’ Gujarat chief puts in his papers

AHMEDABAD – Congress’ Gujarat unit chief Siddhartha Patel Saturday announced his resignation following the party’s dismal showing in the panchayat polls.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) virtually swept the Gujarat local bodies elections Saturday bagging 22 of the 24 district panchayats and 36 of the 52 municipalities.
In a statement released here, Patel said …. Original article  : Congress’ Gujarat chief puts in his papers.

Over 75 percent voting in Kerala local bodies polls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Over 75 polling was recorded in the first phase of Kerala local bodies elections in seven districts Saturday. The elections were not trouble-free as country-made bombs went off in six places with reports of alleged booth capturing.

In the first phase, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kasargode districts went to the polls.
…. Source  : Over 75 percent voting in Kerala local bodies polls.

30 Congress legislators being lured by BJP: Siddaramaiah

MYSORE – The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka is continuing efforts to lure opposition legislators to its side and 30 Congress members are being wooed by it, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah said Saturday.

“We have evidence to show that Shobha Karandlaje (power minister) has been in touch over phone with our legislators …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 30 Congress legislators being lured by BJP: Siddaramaiah.

Palestinians to reconsider agreements with Israel

RAMALLAH – The Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) would consider breaking agreements signed with Israel if the Israeli government continue with the current policies, a PLO official said Saturday in an interview with the Arab newspaper al-Hayat.

“There are agreements between the PLO and Israel. One party cannot continue to be committed to these agreements forever …. Source article  : Palestinians to reconsider agreements with Israel.

Omar taking leaf out of Nehru’s incompetence: BJP MP

PANAJI – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is repeating history by taking a leaf out of late prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s incompetence, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP said here Monday.

Anurag Thakur, an MP from Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur constituency, said Abdullah was trying to hide his incompetence in governance by siding with … Read more >>.

India will not force n-deal on Japan: Manmohan (Second Lead)

TOKYO – India will not force the civil nuclear agreement on Japan as it recognises the sensitivities involved, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said here Monday, indicating that the nuclear deal that is being negotiated between the two countries could be a long haul.

“I recognise the sensitivity of the (nuclear) issue in Japan and therefore I … Read more >>>.

IT raids on Reddy brothers’ associates

BANGALORE – Income tax officials Monday raided the office of Karnataka Health Minister B. Sriramulu, a confidant of the Reddy brothers, the residence of an advocate and the houses of a few Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators in Karnataka, officials said.

“We are conducting raids in Bangalore, Bellary and Hospet. It is a search operation,” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : IT raids on Reddy brothers’ associates.

Rahul’s image result of media spin: BJP youth wing

PANAJI – Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s image is a product of a media spin and he has absolutely no connect with the masses, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) president Anurag Thakur said here Monday.

Thakur, an MP from Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur constituency, also said that the results of the ongoing elections in Bihar would … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rahul’s image result of media spin: BJP youth wing.

Manmohan Singh’s visit to improve India-Malaysia ties: HC

KUALA LUMPUR – Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s scheduled visit to Malaysia would improve the bilateral relations between the two countries, Indian High Commissioner to Malaysia Vijay Gokhale has said.

Dr. Singh will arrive in Kuala Lumpur on a three-day visit from Tuesday to reciprocate Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak’s visit to India in … Read : Manmohan Singh’s visit to improve India-Malaysia ties: HC.

Slovenian town elects their ‘Obama’ for mayor

LJUBLJANA – An African immigrant was being dubbed the “Slovenian Barack Obama” Monday, after winning a run-off election at the weekend for the post of mayor in the Adriatic resort of Piran.

Peter Bossman, 54, came to former Yugoslavia in 1977 to study medicine, expecting only to visit.
Instead he made Slovenia his home, married …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Slovenian town elects their ‘Obama’ for mayor.

India seeks Japan’s nuclear help, but would not force the issue: Manmohan Singh

TOKYO – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday said that India seeks Japan’s help for expansion of its nuclear energy potential, but would not force Tokyo on the issue as it recognises the sensitivity of the subject.

Dr. Singh, who is in Tokyo on a three-day visit, said that with the India’s rapid economic growth, the …. Source article  : India seeks Japan’s nuclear help, but would not force the issue: Manmohan Singh.

Manmohan visit gets big play in Japanese media

TOKYO – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s interview to the Japanese media ahead of his three-day visit to the country was extensively covered in the newspapers here Monday, meriting an anchor in The Daily Yomiuri and a front page mention in the International Herald Tribune/Asahi Shimbun edition.

The Japan Times carried a small report on page … Read more »»».

Malaysia’s early poll talks overshadow Diwali celebrations

KUALA LUMPUR – Speculations about early parliamentary polls in Malaysia have overshadowed Diwali celebrations in the country, and leaders of the Indian diaspora have been urged to hit the campaign trail.

The talks have prompted calls for unity among the country’s 2.1 million ethnic Indians, whose vote is sought by a plethora of parties, …. Read the original article  : Malaysia’s early poll talks overshadow Diwali celebrations.

Punjab Congress wants Rahul to join 45-day march

CHANDIGARH – The Youth Congress in Punjab is set to undertake a 45-day march to raise issues like drug addiction, terrorism and female foeticide next month. And it wants party general secretary Rahul Gandhi to join them.

Called the Nav Inqalab Yatra, it will start from neighbouring Mohali town Nov 1 and culminate Dec 15 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Punjab Congress wants Rahul to join 45-day march.

MPs behaved like ‘zombies’ under ex-PM Rudd: Labor senator

CANBERRA – Australian Labor Party Senator Doug Cameron has claimed that lawmakers under leadership of former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd behaved like “zombies”.

Describing that period as a time of ‘political lobotomy’, Cameron told radio station 2UE that Labor’s primary …. Source  : MPs behaved like ‘zombies’ under ex-PM Rudd: Labor senator.

Brisk voting in second phase of Kerala polls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Seven districts of Kerala saw brisk and peaceful polling Monday in the second phase of elections to local bodies, officials said.

Voting began at 7 a.m. in Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram and Palakkad districts and more than 20 percent polling was recorded in the first three hours, according to the State …. Read the original article  : Brisk voting in second phase of Kerala polls.

Tony Blair’s sis-n-law declares ’she’s a Muslim’

LONDON – First former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair became a Roman Catholic after leaving office in 2007, and now his sister in law has converted to Islam.

Lauren Booth, Cherie Blair’s half sister, decided to adopt her new faith after what she described as a holy experience in Iran. … Read more >>.

French citizens dissatisfied with Sarkozy

Paris, Oct 25 (IANS/RIA Novosti) French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s retirement reform plan has led to a dramatic drop in his public approval rating, with around 70 percent of the people saying they were “dissatisfied” with his work.

An opinion poll conducted by the French Institute of Public Opinion (IFOP) issued Sunday said 70 percent were … Read more : French citizens dissatisfied with Sarkozy.

Rains no dampener for efficient Japanese (Japan diary)

TOKYO – The famed Japanese efficiency was in evidence as soon as Air India One carrying Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his entourage touched down in pouring rain Sunday evening. All passengers disembarking were quickly handed out umbrellas, swiftly opened so not a minute was wasted.

Two people waited just outside on the steps to …. Source  : Rains no dampener for efficient Japanese (Japan diary).

PM gets covered in Japanese press

TOKYO – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s interview to the Japanese media ahead of his three-day visit to the country was extensively covered in the newspapers here Monday, meriting an anchor in The Daily Yomiuri and a front page mention in the International Herald Tribue/Asahi Shimbun edition.

The Japan Times carried a small report on page … Original source on Gaea Times at : PM gets covered in Japanese press.

Manmohan Singh invites Japanese companies to join India’s growth story

NEW DELHI – While projecting India as a growing and vibrant market, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Sunday invited Japanese companies to be part of India’s ambitious development plans, with a promise of improving the investment climate for foreign investors.

Ahead of his meeting with Japanese business leaders in Tokyo later in the day … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh invites Japanese companies to join India’s growth story.

Nothing to do with Gujarat civic polls EVMs, says EC

NEW DELHI – The Election Commission was not associated with the use of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the just-concluded Gujarat civic bodies elections, a senior official said here Sunday.

Answering a question about the manipulation of the EVMs in the polls, Deputy Election Commissioner Alok Shukla said the EVMs used in the …. Source  : Nothing to do with Gujarat civic polls EVMs, says EC.

52.55 percent votes cast in Bihar polls second phase

NEW DELHI – The Election Commission here Sunday said 52.55 percent votes were cast in the second phase of the Bihar assembly elections. Barring some stray incidents, the polling was largely peaceful.

The overall percentage of polling is likely to go up when the final tally comes, Deputy Election Commissioner Vinod Joztshi told mediapersons.
Elections …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 52.55 percent votes cast in Bihar polls second phase.

Iraq apex court orders parliament to reconvene

BAGHDAD – Iraq’s Supreme Court Sunday ordered the country’s parliament to reconvene, after nearly eight months of political stalemate following inconclusive elections in March.

No precise date was set for the new session, however.
Since the March 7 general elections, the new-elected parliament has held only one session, in mid-June, which lasted just 20 minutes.
… Read more : Iraq apex court orders parliament to reconvene.

Obama visit: India for `robust strategic framework’ in ties

WASHINGTON – With progress on key issues, India hopes US President Barack Obama’s visit will put in place a “robust strategic framework” for a strong partnership bilaterally and on key global and regional issues.

Diplomatic sources said in the run-up to the visit that there has been progress in narrowing down differences on issues like …. Source  : Obama visit: India for `robust strategic framework’ in ties.

Nepal Maoists’ China trip row escalates

KATHMANDU – The row between Nepal’s caretaker government and the opposition Maoist party over the latter’s guerrilla army fighters’ clandestine visit to China escalated with the government seeking an explanation from the UN agency monitoring the combatants and the Maoists calling it interference.

The peace and reconstruction ministry has asked the UN Mission in Nepal [..] Read the original article: here.

Two JD-U candidates haven’t aged since 2005

PATNA – Looks like two Bihar legislators have not aged since the last assembly elections in 2005. One is still aged 41 in official records while another has actually gotten younger!

Anant Singh of the ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) stated in the last elections that he was 49, but this year he said he was …. Original article  : Two JD-U candidates haven’t aged since 2005.

Malaysia’s ‘Little India’ to receive Manmohan, Razak

KUALA LUMPUR – “Little India” business area has been lit up ahead of Diwali as it prepares to receive Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Malaysian counterpart Najib Tun Razak Wednesday.

Manmohan Singh and Razak will jointly open the renovated market area in Jalan Ungku Puan in Johor Baru where Hindus shop for Diwali. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Congress miffed with National Conference?

JAMMU – The Congress appears to be miffed with its ruling ally National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir. Party leaders feel they are not being consulted on crucial issues.

State Congress president Saifuddin Soz has advised party leaders to guard against any move by the National Conference to push through matters without consulting them.
“It … Original source on Gaea Times at : Congress miffed with National Conference?.

Shoe thrower says ex-Oz PM Howard deserved ‘a lot worse’for Iraq War involvement

SYDNEY – A man who threw a shoe at former Australian Prime Minister John Howard on last night’s Q and A program on ABC TV said he “deserves a lot worse” than having shoes thrown at him.

Hunter Valley man Peter Gray was unapologetic about his actions this morning, telling Newcastle ABC Radio he was angry … Read more : Shoe thrower says ex-Oz PM Howard deserved ‘a lot worse’for Iraq War involvement.

US can do little for India’s success or failure: think tank

WASHINGTON – The US can contribute only marginally to India’s success or failure, suggests a US think tank as it advised Washington to focus on global issues that will also affect India’s longer-term interests.

“Most of what the US government can do for India lies in the broader global arena, and most of what India … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US can do little for India’s success or failure: think tank.

Manmohan leaves Japan, heads to Malaysia

TOKYO – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday left for Malaysia on the second leg of his three-nation Asia tour after a three-day visit to Japan that saw the conclusion of negotiations on an all-encompassing economic agreement and the commitment to strengthen ties in all spheres.

Manmohan Singh, who will be in Kuala Lumpur for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan leaves Japan, heads to Malaysia.

Trade pact great but civil nuclear pact delicate issue, says Japanese media

TOKYO – India’s broad trade deal with Japan was lead news in the newspapers here Tuesday, with writers noting the significance of the sweeping economic agreement, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and the hurdles in the way of the civil nuclear pact.

The Daily Yomiuri, which carried an AP story headlined “Japan, India sign …. Source article  : Trade pact great but civil nuclear pact delicate issue, says Japanese media.

Presidential Memorandum???Child Soldiers Prevention Act

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Presidential Determination
No.       2011-4

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE
SUBJECT:    Presidential Determination with Respect to Section 404(c) of the Child Soldiers Prevention Act of 2008
By the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Memorandum–Child Soldiers Prevention Act.

Remarks by Dennis Ross, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for the Central Region AIPAC National Summit

Location: 

Hollywood, FL

As Prepared for Delivery –
 
Thank you for inviting me here today to your National Summit.  It is always good to get out of Washington for a …. Read the original article  : here.

Remarks by the President on Small Businesses and the Economy in Woonsocket, Rhode Island

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Location: 

American Cord & Webbing …. Original article  : Remarks by the President on Small Businesses and the Economy in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

Press Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton en route Rhode Island

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Aboard Air Force One … Read more : Press Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton en route Rhode Island.

Statement by the President on National Work and Family Month

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National Work and Family Month serves as a reminder to all of us, especially working caregivers, their families, and their employers, that while we …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Statement by the President on National Work and Family Month.

Britain, UAE discuss Middle East peace process

London, Oct 26 (IANS/WAM) Britain and the United Arab Emirates Monday vowed to strengthen bilateral ties and discussed regional and international issues including developments of the Middle East peace process.

After a meeting with General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed …. Read the original article  : Britain, UAE discuss Middle East peace process.

Japanese PM hails Indian initiative to revive Nalanda University

TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Kan welcomed India’s initiative to revive Nalanda University and expressed Japan’s continued support to this initiative which will strengthen the cultural and civilizational bonds between the countries in Asia.

Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, today held extensive talks on bilateral, regional and global …. Read the original article  : here.

India, Japan hail progress in cooperation in science and technology sector

TOKYO – Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan here on Monday welcomed the progress made in Science and Technology cooperation, including the India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme.

To realize full potential of cooperation in this field, the two Prime Ministers encouraged their respective authorities to promote the cooperative research in … Read : India, Japan hail progress in cooperation in science and technology sector.

India, Japan to steadily expand security and defense cooperation

TOKYO – Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan on Monday decided to steadily expand security and defense cooperation between India and Japan.

Both the leaders today held extensive talks on bilateral, regional and global issues of shared interest, in which they also aimed to cooperate to enhance their capacity …. Original article  : India, Japan to steadily expand security and defense cooperation.

India, Japan hail negotiations for cooperation in peaceful use of nuclear energy

TOKYO – Prime Ministers of India and Japan on Monday welcomed commencement of negotiations between their countries on an Agreement for Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy in June 2010.

Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan during their meet here today affirmed that cooperation in this sector … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India, Japan hail negotiations for cooperation in peaceful use of nuclear energy.

India, Japan simplify visa procedures

TOKYO – India and Japan Monday decided to simplify visa procedures between them and signed a memorandum to that effect.

The memorandum covers the gamut – including measures related to business visas, employment visas, tourist visas, student visas as well as temporary visitor visas.
The measures will be implemented from a date that would be … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India, Japan simplify visa procedures.

Congress makes gains in Kerala local bodies polls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – As counting of votes in the Kerala local bodies polls progressed Wednesday, the Congress-led opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) seemed to be making visible gains over the previous elections in 2005.

UDF, which was wiped out in the last polls, has won the Kochi and Thrissur corporations and is in a neck-and-neck fight … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Congress makes gains in Kerala local bodies polls.

Bihar polls: Test of governance, rule of law in phase three

PATNA – Good governance, rule of law, development and a new caste arithmetic will be on test Thursday as 48 constituencies in Bihar’s fertile belts vote in the third round of assembly polls, with the stakes perhaps highest for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

About 10.3 million voters are eligible to vote to determine the electoral …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bihar polls: Test of governance, rule of law in phase three.

World large enough to accomodate ambitions of India and China: PM

KUALA LUMPUR – Visiting Indian Prime Minister Dr. manmohan Singh on Wednesday said that the world is large enough to accomodate the demands, ambitions and aspirations of both India and China, the two economic giants of Asia.

Delivering a lecture at Khazana, Malaysia’s apex business body, Dr. Singh said: “India and China are both fast growing … Original source on Gaea Times at : World large enough to accomodate ambitions of India and China: PM.

Young Indian population an asset in taking nation to greater heights: Manmohan Singh

KUALA LUMPUR – Describing people as India’s biggest asset, visiting Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Wednesday said at a time when the industrialised world is aging rapidly, India has the advantage of a young population.

Taking part in the Khazanah Global Lecture Series 2010 on “India’s Development Experience here, Dr. Singh said the dependency … Read more »».

Manmohan Singh says RBI will look into Malaysian model of Islamic banking

KUALA LUMPUR – Visiting Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has said that he will ask the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to look into the Malayasian model of Islamic banking.

“There has been time to time demands in India that we should also experiment with Islamic banking, and I would certainly recommend to the …. Read the original article  : Manmohan Singh says RBI will look into Malaysian model of Islamic banking.

Multi-cultural Malaysia can handle ethnic issues: PM

KUALA LUMPUR – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Wednesday he was confident that Malaysia, a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic country and home to 2.1 million people of Indian origin, had a built-in flexibility to handle its ethnic issues.

“Like India, Malaysia is multi-cultural and multi-ethnic, the prime minister said at a joint press interaction in …. Read the original article  : here.

Notification issued for sixth phase of Bihar polls

PATNA – The notification for the sixth and final phase of the Bihar state assembly elections was issued Wednesday.

In the sixth round due Nov 20, polling will be held in 26 of the 243 assembly constituencies.
The first two rounds of polls took place Oct 21 and Oct 24 for 47 and 45 seats … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Notification issued for sixth phase of Bihar polls.

Turkish folk dances, music, movies to mark national day

NEW DELHI – A colourful performance of Turkish folk dances and music will be held in the capital Nov 1 and 2 to mark the national day of Turkey.

The dances, by the Hacettepe University Folk Dances Group, are being presented by the embassy of Turkey in cooperation with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Turkish folk dances, music, movies to mark national day.

Counting under way for Kerala local bodies polls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Counting of votes in the Kerala local bodies elections was under way Wednesday, with poll officials saying the Congress-led opposition was ahead of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in municipalities and corporations.

UDF, which was wiped out in the 2005 polls, has already won in the Kochi corporation. It is leading in … Read : Counting under way for Kerala local bodies polls.

Arundhati Roy Speech: A Case Of Sedition?

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) The government never expected a reputable Indian author to issue negative statements on a sensitive and disputable issue like Kashmir. However, writers are often known for their indigestible boldness in voicing their opinions and Arundhati Roy is no exception. The novelist and human right activist known for her stand on … Original article on : Arundhati Roy Speech: A Case Of Sedition?.

Curfew in Srinagar to scuttle separatist march

SRINAGAR – Curfew was imposed in Srinagar and some major towns of Kashmir Valley to scuttle a protest march called by separatists Wednesday.

Curfew has been imposed in Srinagar city, Awantipora, Pattan, Palhalan, Kunzar, Sopore, Handwara, Kupwara and Kralpora towns as a preventive measure, a senior police officer said here.
The officer, however, said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Curfew in Srinagar to scuttle separatist march.

Gorbachev accuses Putin of obstructing democracy in Russia

MOSCOW – Former Soviet Union president Mikhail S. Gorbachev has expressed his growing frustration with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, and accused him of undermining the country’s fledgling democracy by crippling the opposition forces.

“He thinks that democracy stands in his way. I am afraid that they have been saddled with this idea that this … Read : Gorbachev accuses Putin of obstructing democracy in Russia.

Malaysia party appeals to Indian PM to highlight discrimination against Indian minorities

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian party has urged visiting Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to highlight alleged discrimination against Indian minorities during his visit to the country.

According to the BBC, the Human Rights Party claimed that though Malaysia has one of the largest Indian populations outside of India, Malay Indians often feel marginalized in …. Read the original article  : here.

Hillary Clinton will not join Obama on India trip

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who has played a key role in strengthening India-US relations, will not accompany President Barack Obama on his trip to India next month.

“The Secretary has been to India and has engaged Indian officials to help prepare for the president’s trip,” State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley told … Read more >>>.

Malaysia can handle its ethnic issue, says PM

KUALA LUMPUR – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Wednesday he was confident that Malaysia had the ability to handle its ethnic issue.

“Like India, Malaysia is multi-cultural and multi-ethnic. I am confident that the Malaysian system has the built-in flexibility” to tackle the issue, Manmohan Singh said.
The prime minister’s observation came in response … Read more : Malaysia can handle its ethnic issue, says PM.

India is not tilting to US, says PM

KUALA LUMPUR – India is not tilting towards the US and its foreign policy is an expression of “enlightened national interests”, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said.

The prime minister also told Malaysia’s New Straits Times in an interview that New Delhi desired speedy reforms of the international financial institutions so that rapidly growing economies …. Read the original article  : India is not tilting to US, says PM.

Visa row between India, China ahead of Singh-Jiabao meet

KUALA LUMPUR – A visa row has reportedly surfaced between India and China on the eve of a meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam, between Indian Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh and his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao.

The meeting is scheduled to take place later in the week.

India and China have been engaged in a war of words over …. Original article  : Visa row between India, China ahead of Singh-Jiabao meet.

Vatican opposes execution of Saddam’s minister

ROME – The Vatican has spoken out against the execution of former Iraqi foreign minister Tariq Aziz, who was sentenced to death Tuesday for the persecution of and efforts to “liquidate” Iraqi religious parties under Saddam Hussein’s rule.

“The position of the Vatican with regard to the death sentence is known,” Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi …. Original article  : Vatican opposes execution of Saddam’s minister.

Statement by the President on the Tsunami in Indonesia

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Michele and I are deeply saddened by the loss of life, injuries, and damage that have occurred as a result of the recent earthquake … Read more »»».

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 10/26/2010

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James S. Brady Press … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 10/26/2010.

Renaming of auditorium after Rajiv Gandhi sparks row

HYDERABAD – The move to rename an open-air auditorium in the city after former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi has sparked a row, with the main opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP) saying it was a ploy by Congress legislators to please Sonia Gandhi.

“The ruling Congress leaders are renaming the building to please Sonia Gandhi,” …. Original source  : Renaming of auditorium after Rajiv Gandhi sparks row.

Gadkari, Dikshit trade charges on Bihar development

PATNA – Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress continue to trade charges over the state of development in Bihar.

The latest salvo was fired by BJP president Nitin Gadkari and countered by senior Congress leader and Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.

While Gadkari claimed that the BJP has played a major role in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gadkari, Dikshit trade charges on Bihar development.

Chinese article on reforms appears critical of Premier Jiabao: NYT

BEIJING – An opinion article in China’s main Communist Party newspaper – People’s Daily – appears to be obliquely aimed at Prime Minister Wen Jiabao.

According to the New York Times, the article criticizes Jiabao for suggesting more reforms in the country’s administrative system.

Jiabao is said to have called for facilitating economic progress with systemic …. Original article  : Chinese article on reforms appears critical of Premier Jiabao: NYT.

Key to test Henry’s ‘racial-slur’ fallout in meeting with Manmohan at East Asia Summit

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has said that a meeting with his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh at the East Asia Summit this weekend will be an opportunity for him to ‘take India’s temperature’ and test if the Paul Henry controversy has had any lasting ‘fallout’.

The meeting “will be an opportunity to take … Read : Key to test Henry’s ‘racial-slur’ fallout in meeting with Manmohan at East Asia Summit.

US sees progress on key issues before Obama visit

WASHINGTON – Ahead of US President Barack Obama’s trip to India, officials indicated forward movement in ironing out differences on issues ranging from India’s nuclear liability regime to US export controls on high tech items as it sees India as a “very important market and a “key economic ally”.

“We see India as an …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

State governments to help regulate illegal migration

NEW DELHI – Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi Thursday called on state governments to partner his ministry in helping regulate illegal migration of workers from the country.

“The state governments should prosecute fraudulent recruiting and travel agents with the efficient use of the state police,” Ravi said inaugurating the third annual consultation meeting …. Source  : State governments to help regulate illegal migration.

Nominations for Jharkhand panchayat polls begin

RANCHI – Filing of nominations for the first panchayat polls in Jharkhand began Thursday, an official said.

People in Jharkhand will elect representatives to local bodies for the first time since the creation of the state in 2000. The notification of the first phase of the five-phase polls was issued Wednesday.
A total of 1,348 …. Source  : Nominations for Jharkhand panchayat polls begin.

Hundreds of thousands vote in Bihar – peacefully (Third Lead)

PATNA – Nearly 2.5 million had voted by midday Thursday across six districts of Bihar in the third round of staggered elections to pick a new 243-member house. Police reported minor clasehs.

Balloting continued briskly in 48 constituencies where men and women queued up outside thousands of polling centres, defyig calls from Maoists to boycott … Read more »»».

Manmohan Singh leaves for Vietnam

KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh left here Thursday for Vietnam on the final leg of his Asian tour, after a three-day trip to Malaysia where he concluded negotiations on the path-breaking Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).

Manmohan Singh, who held extensive bilateral discussions with his counterpart Najib Tun Razak, said the …. Source article  : Manmohan Singh leaves for Vietnam.

Over Rs.6 lakh recovered from Congress leaders’ room

PATNA – Police Thursday morning recovered Rs.6.40 lakh from the hotel room of Congress leaders in Bihar’s Begusarai town, a few hours ahead of an election rally of party president Sonia Gandhi for the ongoing assembly polls.

A police team raided a hotel room of Bihar Youth Congress president Lalan Kumar and Sagar Raika, who … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Over Rs.6 lakh recovered from Congress leaders’ room.

BJP leader Naidu demands clear Central policy on Kashmir

CHENNAI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader M.Venkaiah Naidu has asked the Central Government to come out with a clear policy on Kashmir and also sought strict action against Booker Prize-winning author Arundhati Roy for favouring secessionists in Kashmir.

Naidu also criticized hardline Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani and pro-Maoist leader Varavara Rao for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP leader Naidu demands clear Central policy on Kashmir.

BJP’s Kashmir unit calls for boycott of central government interlocutors

JAMMU – The Bharatiya Janata Party plans to boycott the three interlocutors appointed by the Central Government to gather views from a cross-section of people and leaders in Jammu and Kashmir on how to resolve the problems besetting the region.

BJP state unit president Shamsher Singh Manhal told media on Wednesday that the Kashmir issue is …. Read the original article  : here.

BJP slams Kashmir interlocutor’s statement on ‘azadi’

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Thursday came down heavily on Radha Kumar, one of the three Kashmir interlocutors, for her reported suggestion that the constitution could be amended to accommodate a “discussion on the azadi option for Jammu and Kashmir”.

“She is nobody to talk like this. She has no jurisdiction. This … Original source on Gaea Times at : BJP slams Kashmir interlocutor’s statement on ‘azadi’.

Obama to celebrate Diwali with Indian kids

WASHINGTON – Underscoring India’s importance as “a cornerstone” of broader Asia approach of a US focused on expanding exports, President Barack Obama begins a four-nation trip to Asia next week with his first halt in Mumbai.

Obama’s three-day schedule in India is built around the context of expanding US exports to India while increasing investments … Read more »».

Berlusconi gave me cash after sex, claims teenage Moroccan model

LONDON – A teenage Moroccan model has apparently claimed that she had sex with Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi in return for a cash ‘gift’.

According to Italian press reports, the girl – identified only as Ruby and allegedly an illegal immigrant – has claimed that she had consensual sex with the prime minister at his …. Read the original article  : Berlusconi gave me cash after sex, claims teenage Moroccan model.

Former president Kirchner’s death stuns Argentina

Buenos Aires, Oct 28 (IANS/EFE) The death of former president Nestor Kirchner, husband of current head of state Cristina Fernandez, has stunned Argentina and fueled uncertainty about the country’s political future one year shy of the next presidential election.

The 60-year-old Kirchner, who governed Argentina from 2003 to 2007, died suddenly of a heart attack …. Read the original article  : Former president Kirchner’s death stuns Argentina.

Manmohan Singh heads for Hanoi to attend ASEAN, East-Asia Summits

HANOI – As part of India’s Look East policy which aims at furthering and strengthening its interests in the entire East Asia and South East Asia Region, Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh arrives here on Thursday to take part in the 17th ASEAN Summit and other related Summits that are scheduled for tomorrow.

A number … Read more »».

Congress leader slams Sharad Yadav for use of ‘criminal’ language against Rahul Gandhi

PATNA/RAXAUL – Senior Congress party leader B K Hariprasad has criticized Janata Dal United (JD-U) president Sharad Yadav for using indecent and inappropriate language in describing Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi.

Voicing his ire in state capital Patna on Wednesday, Hariprasad said a seasoned politician like Yadav should not have used such words and added that … Read more >>.

Bihar polls: Voting under way for third phase (Second Lead)

PATNA – Voting was under way Thursday in the third phase of Bihar’s elections, with the stakes high for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in the 48 constituencies spread across six districts.

Ignoring the Maoists’ call of poll boycott, voters, particularly women and youths, queued up outside the polling booths soon after balloting began at …. Read the original article  : here.

Voting begins for third phase of Bihar polls

PATNA – The third phase of the Bihar assembly elections to pick a new 243- member house began Thursday in 48 constituencies in the state’s fertile belt where stakes are high for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Voting began at 7 a.m. amid tight security. About 10.3 million people are eligible to vote to determine the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Voting begins for third phase of Bihar polls.

Manmohan Singh meets South Korean President in Hanoi

HANOI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met South Korean President Lee Myung-bak ahead of the eighth India-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Summit, and the fifth East Asia Summit in Hanoi here on Friday.

The meeting lasted for about 30 minutes and took place at the Daewoo Hotel here.

The issue related to the 12-billion-dollar POSCO steel … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh meets South Korean President in Hanoi.

India, China PMs’ discuss “difficult issues” in Hanoi, Special Reps to meet

HANOI – Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao used their tenth meeting as leaders of their respective governments to discuss threadbare all “difficult” issues bedeviling bilateral ties.

During their 45-minute meeting here this morning, Jiabao expressed his wish to visit India before the end of the year, a wish that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India, China PMs’ discuss “difficult issues” in Hanoi, Special Reps to meet.

Civil n-pact between South Korea, India awaits signature

HANOI – An agreement on civil nuclear cooperation between India and South Korea was on course to finalisation and now awaited signature, National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon said Friday after a meeting between the leaders of the two countries.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, who met here on the sidelines …. Source  : Civil n-pact between South Korea, India awaits signature.

Garo Hills civic polls postponed after violence

SHILLONG – Meghalaya Friday set in abeyance the first-ever municipal elections in its three districts of Garo Hills following violent protests by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) against the polls.

“The government has decided to adjourn the elections to the four municipal boards in view of the prevailing law and order situation in Garo … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Garo Hills civic polls postponed after violence.

Silvio Berlusconi condemns furore over links with teenage girl

London, Oct 29 (ANI): Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has denounced a growing controversy over his links with a teenage Moroccan girl as ‘media trash’.

“I am a person with a heart, and so I take an interest in people’s problems. But I do not take an interest in media trash,” the Guardian quoted Berlusconi as …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Silvio Berlusconi condemns furore over links with teenage girl.

We need your ideas to build ties: Hillary to Indian Americans

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has asked Indian Americans to use their connections to India to tackle tough challenges from improving global health to empowering people to improving their own lives.

“Governments alone cannot solve any of these problems. We need your ideas, and we need help from people like you,” … Original article on : We need your ideas to build ties: Hillary to Indian Americans.

Endorse India’s quest for UNSC seat: US expert

WASHINGTON – As US President Obama embarks on his first visit to India, a noted US scholar has suggested that he make a bold move to endorse India’s quest for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.

Obama has a unique opportunity to cement a global partnership with a rapidly emerging power and “India [..] Read the original article: here.

Chinese PM says he will visit India this year

HANOI – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said he would be visiting India this year in his opening remarks ahead of his meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday. The prime minister responded by saying that he was “extremely delighted” to hear about it.

The 30-minute meeting, also attended by National Security Advisor Shiv Shankar Menon, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chinese PM says he will visit India this year.

Wen to visit India, PM `delighted’

HANOI – Chinese premier Wen Jiabao said he would be visiting India this year in his opening remarks ahead of his meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday. The prime minister responded by saying that he was “extremely delighted” to hear about it.

The 30-minute meeting, also attended by National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon, Commerce … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wen to visit India, PM `delighted’.

Asia to play key role with rise of India, China: US

WASHINGTON – The United States believes given the rise of India and China as global powers, emerging Asian nations are going to play a fundamental role on issues like Iran, non-proliferation, terrorism and nuclear security.

Apart from the “broader Asia context that includes relationship with China and India,” the US also sees “direct engagement … Read : Asia to play key role with rise of India, China: US.

Manmohan meets Wen in Hanoi

HANOI – Prime Ministers Manmohan Singh of India and Wen Jiabao of China met here Friday on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit, setting the stage for the Chinese leader’s visit to New Delhi later this year.

The two leaders are believed to have discussed bilateral and regional issues.
The much-awaited meeting comes amid …. Original source  : Manmohan meets Wen in Hanoi.

India, China PMs’ begin meeting, stapled visa, economic and strategic ties in focus

HANOI – The Prime Ministers of India and China – Dr. Manmohan Singh and Wen Jiabao – have begun a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN and East Asia summits being held here, and it is expected that they will discuss a broad range of issues, including strategic and economic ties, besides the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India, China PMs’ begin meeting, stapled visa, economic and strategic ties in focus.

Manmohan, Wen meet in Hanoi

HANOI – Prime Ministers Manmohan Singh of India and Wen Jiabao of China met here Friday on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit.

The two leaders are believed to have discussed bilateral and regional issues.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan, Wen meet in Hanoi.

Hanoi celebrates 1,000 years of existence (Vietnam Diary)

HANOI – This charming city, now playing host to the ASEAN summit and many world leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, is also celebrating its 1,000-year anniversary.

The streets are strung with fairy lights as are the fringes of the many lakes. Elaborate floral arrangements can be seen alongside the streets as this Vietnam … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hanoi celebrates 1,000 years of existence (Vietnam Diary).

‘Obama’s Asia trip underscores re-engagement strategy’

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama’s visit to Asia next month underscores his Asia strategy of renewed engagement, a top aide has said.

According to Xinhua, US engagement in Asia is “founded upon our core alliances in the region, and of course South Korea and Japan are at the top of that list”, Deputy …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Obama’s Asia trip underscores re-engagement strategy’.

Readout of the Vice President’s Meeting on Iraq

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The Vice President today chaired a Cabinet-level meeting on Iraq to discuss the status of negotiations on government formation.  Ambassador Jim Jeffrey provided a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Statement by the President on Presidential Elections in Cote d’Ivoire

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The United States supports the people of Cote d’Ivoire as they prepare to express their democratic voice and participate in presidential elections on October …. Source  : Statement by the President on Presidential Elections in Cote d’Ivoire.

Italian prime minister faces new sex scandal

ROME – A close friend of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi said Thursday that a Moroccan teenage girl at the centre of a new sex scandal threatening the premier may have attended a party hosted by Berlusconi.

Emilio Fede, who anchors a news programme on a television channel owned by Berlusconi’s Mediaset network, is being …. Source article  : Italian prime minister faces new sex scandal.

Clinton pledges American leadership in Asia

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said Thursday that the US will continue to forge a leadership role in Asia, as she began a major trip to the region.

The US will use its tools of diplomacy, defence and development to maintain regional stability and promote security, economic growth and trade, Clinton … Read : Clinton pledges American leadership in Asia.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 10/28/2010

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For Immediate Release

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James S. Brady Press … Original source on Gaea Times at : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 10/28/2010.

Sri Lankan Tamil diaspora asked to shun negativity

NEW DELHI – A Sri Lankan Tamil militant group turned political party has urged the Tamil diaspora to be “realistic” to achieve a better political deal now that the Tamil Tigers are history.

The Eelam People’s Revolutionary Liberation Front (EPRLF) issued the appeal to the vast Tamil diaspora community spread around the world at a …. Original article  : Sri Lankan Tamil diaspora asked to shun negativity.

Manmohan Singh promises visa on arrival for citizens of four ASEAN nations

HANOI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Saturday announced that nationals from Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines and Laos would be given visas on arrival from January 1, 2011.

Addressing the 8th India-ASEAN summit, Dr. Singh said: “India have always accorded high priority to the countries covered by the “Initiative for ASEAN integration” and hoped to upgrade … Original article on : Manmohan Singh promises visa on arrival for citizens of four ASEAN nations.

Advani blames Congress for prevailing corruption

GAYA – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) senior leader Lal Krishna Advani blamed the Congress-led Central Government for the corruption prevailing in the country.

Addressing an election rally at Gaya, Advani said: “I told that the corruption is prevailing, students are fighting against it but until political parties don’t recognise that the Congress party is behind the …. Read the original article  : Advani blames Congress for prevailing corruption.

Obama visit sixth by US president in over 50 years

NEW DELHI – Barack Obama’s trip to India Nov 6-9 will be the sixth by a US president since Dwight D. Eisenhower became the first to come visiting more than 50 years ago.

Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush were the other US presidents – in that order – to visit … Read more »»».

Geelani to intensify stir ahead of Obama’s India visit

SRINAGAR – No curfew was imposed in Srinagar Saturday even though the separatists called for a shutdown and hardline Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani asked people to intensify protests ahead of US President Barack Obama’s India visit.

Our freedom struggle has entered a crucial phase and the next 10 days are very important…when the US … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Geelani to intensify stir ahead of Obama’s India visit.

Adarsh controversy: Chavan in Delhi to meet Sonia

NEW DELHI – Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan arrived here Saturday to meet Congress chief Sonia Gandhi over the controversy surrounding Mumbai’s Adarsh housing society meant for families of Kargil martyrs.

The names of Chavan’s mother-in-law and two other relatives have come up as beneficiaries in the housing society.
Congress sources said the chief …. Original article  : Adarsh controversy: Chavan in Delhi to meet Sonia.

Putin’s daughter not to wed South Korean diplomat’s son

MOSCOW – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s youngest daughter is not marrying a South Korean diplomat’s son, his spokesman has said in response to a recent newspaper report.

“A South Korean newspaper’s report about the supposed marriage of Vladimir Putin’s daughter is false,” Xinhua quoted Dmitry Peskov as saying.
South Korea’s Joong Ang Ilbo reported … Read more »».

My love for women, work and play won’t change: Berlusconi

Brussels, Oct 30 (IANS/AKI) Italy’s billionaire Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has said his love for work, women and play will never change, as he dismissed fresh allegations of sexual misconduct with a Moroccan minor who he says escaped from a “tragic life” thanks to his help.

Some Italian newspapers over the last few days have … Read more : My love for women, work and play won’t change: Berlusconi.

Moroccan model says ’sorry’ over Berlusconi sex scandal

LONDON – A 17-year-old Moroccan model, Karima Keyek, has said ’sorry’ over a sex scandal, as Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi faced calls for his resignation.

Berlusconi and Ruby, the Moroccan belly dancer who has apologised Keyek, previously identified only by her stage name of “Ruby”, said she “felt bad” over the affair and had …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PM announces visa on arrival for four Asean countries

HANOI – Nationals from Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Laos would be given visa on arrival from Jan 1, 2011, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announced here Saturday.

Addressing the 8th India-Asean summit, the prime minister looked forward to the conclusion of services and investment agreement between the two sides.
We hope that all formalities …. Source  : PM announces visa on arrival for four Asean countries.

Manmohan Singh takes part in ASEAN Summit in Vietnam

HANOI – Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Saturday began talks with other leaders attending the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Vietnam capital Hanoi.

Issues such as trade, security and energy are likely to be discussed at 17th ASEAN Summit being held in the Vietnam Convention Center in Hanoi.

Dr. Singh will also …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan Singh takes part in ASEAN Summit in Vietnam.

Arundhati Roy does not deserve to be arrested (Comment)

Nothing will please the Booker prize winning author Arundhati Roy more than being charged with sedition for advocating “azadi” or freedom for Kashmir. Ever since she won the prize in 1997, she has devoted her life to fighting for lost causes – Kashmir, the nuclear deal, Maoism and now Kashmir again. Perhaps realising that her …. Original article  : Arundhati Roy does not deserve to be arrested (Comment).

Bhutan PM to undertake five-day visit of India

NEW DELHI – Bhutan Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y Thinley will undertake a five-day visit of India from Saturday.

Prime Minister Thinley is expected in the Indian capital in a short while from now.

On Monday, he will meet with External Affairs Minister S.M.Krishna at the ITC Maurya. Power Minister Sushil Shinde will call on him at …. Original source  : Bhutan PM to undertake five-day visit of India.

Indo-US chemistry, the Americanised Vietnam (Vietnam Diary)

HANOI – If optics are anything to go by in diplomacy, everything is going just right between the US and India ahead of President Barack Obama’s visit. At the gala dinner here Friday night, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton walked up to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to warmly greet him and exchange pleasantries.

The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indo-US chemistry, the Americanised Vietnam (Vietnam Diary).

Statement from John Brennan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counter-Terrorism

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For Immediate Release

The United States is grateful to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their assistance in developing information that helped underscore the imminence of the … Read : Statement from John Brennan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counter-Terrorism.

Presidential Proclamation???Military Family Month

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For Immediate Release

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

We owe each day of security and freedom that we enjoy to the members of [..] Read the original article: here.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs and Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism John Brennan

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For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs and Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism John Brennan.

Presidential Proclamation???National Diabetes Month

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For Immediate Release

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
 

Today, nearly 24 million Americans have diabetes, and thousands more are diagnosed each day. During …. Read the original article  : Presidential Proclamation–National Diabetes Month.

Presidential Proclamation???National Family Caregivers Month

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For Immediate Release

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
 

Every day, family members, friends, neighbors, and concerned individuals across America provide essential attention and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–National Family Caregivers Month.

Presidential Proclamation???National Hospice Month

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For Immediate Release

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
 

During National Hospice Month, we recognize the dignity hospice care can provide to patients who … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–National Hospice Month.

President, PM pay homage to Indira Gandhi

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Sunday led the nation in paying homage to late prime minister Indira Gandhi on her 26th death anniversary.

Besides President Patil, the function at Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum located at the late prime minister’s Safdarjung Road residence was attended by Vice President Hamid … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President, PM pay homage to Indira Gandhi.

China’s one-child policy will allow India to be dominant in Asia: Howard

SYDNEY – Former prime minister John Howard has predicted China’s one-child policy and its political philosophy will allow India to supersede it as the dominant nation in Asia before the end of the 21st century.

Howard also said China would never overtake the US as the world’s military or financial superpower.

“I think China is a rising … Read more »»».

Pro-Telangana students protest in Hyderabad, many arrested

HYDERABAD – A day ahead of Andhra Pradesh formation day, pro-Telangana students Sunday sought to lay siege to the residences of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah and his ministers demanding the day not be celebrated in the region. Many were arrested.

The leaders and members of Osmania University’s Joint Action Committee (JAC) tried … Read more : Pro-Telangana students protest in Hyderabad, many arrested.

India to supersede ‘ageing’ China as Asia’s dominant nation: Howard

SYDNEY – China is “rapidly ageing” because of its one-child policy and this will allow India, a younger country, to supersede it as the dominant nation in Asia before the end of the 21st century, former Australian prime minister John Howard has said.

“The problem China has is that she will grow old before she … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India to supersede ‘ageing’ China as Asia’s dominant nation: Howard.

Nation remembers Sardar Patel on birth anniversary

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar led the nation in paying floral tributes to India’s first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 134th birth anniversary Sunday.

The two leaders laid flower wreaths at Patel’s portrait in the Central Hall of Parliament House. Others who paid tributes included … Read : Nation remembers Sardar Patel on birth anniversary.

The most hated man in France? (France Diary)

PARIS – A television caricature programme recently showed French President Nicolas Sarkozy asking his aides, “Why, oh why, am I the most hated man in all of France?”

The caricature was not a figment of the scriptwriter’s imagination…this is what Sarkozy is reported to have told one of his closest aides.
“I am so hated … Original source on Gaea Times at : The most hated man in France? (France Diary).

Nation pays tribute to Indira Gandhi on her 26th death anniversary

NEW DELHI – The nation on Sunday paid tributes to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 26th death anniversary.

President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Shiela Dixit were among the first to pay floral tributes to the late leader.

A series of … Read more >>.

Hamas downplays Israeli ‘psychological war’

GAZA – Gaza-based Hamas leader Ismail Haniya Saturday rejected fears that Israel might attempt a new attack on the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, similar to the three-week offensive waged in December 2008-January 2009.

Addressing a mass wedding ceremony for 70 grooms who were wounded and disabled in the war nearly two years ago, Haniya said: “The …. Read the original article  : here.

Take NAC recommendations seriously: PM

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – The recommendations of the National Advisory Council have to be taken seriously, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Saturday in response to a query on the food security bill.

When I go back, I will try and acquaint myself on the recommendations of the NAC, the prime minister told reporters … Original article on : Take NAC recommendations seriously: PM.

Home ministry looking into Mamata’s complaints on forces: PM

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Saturday that the home ministry was looking into Railway Minister Mamata Banerjees complaints that central forces were being misused in Maoist-affected areas in West Bengal.

I am aware of those complaints. The home ministry is looking into it, the prime minister said on his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Home ministry looking into Mamata’s complaints on forces: PM.

PM hails US ties, will keep talking to Pakistan (Roundup)

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – One week before President Barack Obama arrives in India, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Saturday that India-US relations have entered a new phase.

Speaking on a range of topics at the end of a three-nation Asian tour, Manmohan Singh also said that India had no option but to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PM hails US ties, will keep talking to Pakistan (Roundup).

Clinton discussed Obama visit, situation in region with PM: Menon

ONBOARD AIR INDIA ONE – National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon said on Saturday that U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton called on Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in Vietnamese capital Hanoi, and both had discussed the forthcoming visit of President Barack Obama …. Source  : Clinton discussed Obama visit, situation in region with PM: Menon.

‘I am satisfied with talks with Wen Jiabao,’ says Manmohan Singh

On Air India One, Oct.30 (ANI): Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Saturday expressed satisfaction over the talks he held with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao on the sidelines of ASEAN summit a day ago.

Interacting with media persons onboard his special … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘I am satisfied with talks with Wen Jiabao,’ says Manmohan Singh.

PM defends Kashmir interlocutors

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday rallied to the defence of the interlocutors on Jammu and Kashmir saying they were free to make any comments they wanted.

“Comments in a democracy are free,” the prime minister told journalists on his way home from Vietnam, at the end of a three-nation …. Original article  : PM defends Kashmir interlocutors.

‘I am satisfied with talks with Wen Jiabao,’ says Manmohan Singh

ON AIR INDIA ONE – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Saturday expressed satisfaction over the talks he held with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao on the sidelines of ASEAN summit a day ago.

Interacting with media persons onboard his special aircraft, which was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘I am satisfied with talks with Wen Jiabao,’ says Manmohan Singh.

India, China for ‘practical solution’ to border row

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Saturday he discussed “totality of issues” with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao and added that both countries wanted a “practical solution” to their border dispute.

On his way home from Vietnam at the end of a three-nation tour that also took him to Japan … Read : India, China for ‘practical solution’ to border row.

Alleged anti-India comments by professor spark trouble

KOLKATA – Trouble brewed at a seminar here Saturday after activists of Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) youth wing created a ruckus over alleged anti-India comments by Prof Syed Abdul Rehman Geelani at the Jadavpur University.

While the BJP’s youth wing workers alleged they were beaten up, the seminar organisers pro-naxalite United Students’ Democratic Front (USDF) … Read more >>>.

Chavan offers to quit over housing scam (Roundup)

NEW DELHI/MUMBAI – Under flak over a housing society scam, Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan Saturday offered to resign at a meeting here with Congress chief Sonia Gandhi who has asked two union ministers to probe the matter.

The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded Chavan’s immediate resignation and a probe by a Supreme … Read : Chavan offers to quit over housing scam (Roundup).

PM declines comment on Ashok Chavan

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday declined comment on a housing scam involving Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan.

“I am not familiar with the facts of the case,” the prime minister told journalists on his way home from Vietnam, at the end of a three-nation Asian tour.
He said he …. Original source  : PM declines comment on Ashok Chavan.

India, US ties enter new phase: PM

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – India and the US have entered a new phase of cordiality and understanding, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said here Friday after his meeting with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and ahead of the visit of President Barack Obama.

Manmohan Singh, who met Clinton in Hanoi for about 45 minutes …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India, US ties enter new phase: PM.