Legal News – Monthly Newsletter December 2010

We didn’t chose this life, say scavengers

NEW DELHI – Hundreds of manual scavengers from various parts of the country raised slogans against their suffering and indignity at a rally in the capital Sunday.

The Samajik Parivartan Yatra, a nation-wide rally organised by Safai Karmachari Andolan (SKA), an organisation formed by former manual scavengers, culminated in a rally in the capital.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : We didn’t chose this life, say scavengers.

Three-judge bench to hear Karnataka Independents’ case

BANGALORE – A three-judge bench of the Karnataka High Court will Tuesday hear the joint writ petition of the five Independent legislators disqualified from the state assembly Oct 11.

According to the court registrar’s office, Chief Justice J.S. Khehar has constituted the full bench with Justice Mohan Shantanagoudar, Justice S. Abdul Nazeer and Justice A.S. … Original article on : Three-judge bench to hear Karnataka Independents’ case.

Fairness is backbone of show cause notice, stresses Apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has said that a quasi-judicial authority acting in exercise of its statutory powers must act fairly and must act with an open mind while initiating a show cause proceeding.

Justice is rooted in confidence and justice is the goal of a quasi-judicial proceeding also,” said the apex court bench … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fairness is backbone of show cause notice, stresses Apex court.

Bangladeshi court orders arrest of former premier’s son

DHAKA – A Dhaka court Sunday issued an arrest order for an exiled son of Khaled Zia, Bangladesh’s former premier, in a money laundering case, court officials said.

Arafat Razhman has since 2008 been living in Thailand, where he is said to be receiving medical treatment. He was initially arrested in Bangladesh in 2007, as … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bangladeshi court orders arrest of former premier’s son.

Sohrabuddin case: Amit Shah heads for Mumbai on Supreme Court’s orders

AHMEDABAD – Former Gujarat Home Minister Amit Shah left for Mumbai on Sunday morning following a direction from the Supreme Court to be out of the State till November 15, when the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) plea seeking cancellation of his bail will be heard.

The CBI filed a petition in the apex court on …. Original article  : Sohrabuddin case: Amit Shah heads for Mumbai on Supreme Court’s orders.

Satyam case to be heard on daily basis from Nov 8

HYDERABAD – The special court here conducting trial in the Satyam scam Tuesday decided to hear the case daily from Nov 8 in view of the Supreme Court’s directive to complete the procedings by July next year.

The trial in the Rs.14,000 crore accounting fraud began Tuesday but the Central Bureau of …. Source article  : Satyam case to be heard on daily basis from Nov 8.

Lahore High Court postpones hearing of petition against Musharraf

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) has postponed the hearing of a petition challenging Pervez Musharraf’s election as Pakistan President in 2007.

A division bench, comprising Justices Chaudhry Muhammad Tariq and Syed Akhlaq Ahmad, after hearing the petitioner, Muhammad Azhar Siddique, sent the case to the Chief Justice with a request to constitute a larger …. Read the original article  : Lahore High Court postpones hearing of petition against Musharraf.

Ayodhya verdict doesn’t condone demolition: Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday said the Allahabad High Court judgment in the Ayodhya Ram Janambhoomi-Babri-Masjid title case in no way condoned the demolition of the mosque 18 years ago.

Addressing a meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), which is being held after 13 years, Gandhi said: “It …. Original article  : Ayodhya verdict doesn’t condone demolition: Sonia Gandhi.

Karnataka crisis: High Court to hear independent MLAs’ case

BANGALORE – A full-bench of the Karnataka High Court will hear the disqualification case of five independent MLAs today.

The new Bench comprising Justice Mohan Shanthanagouder, Justice Abdul Nazir and Justice A S Bopanna will take up the case.

The rebel, along with eleven BJP MLAs, had been disqualified from the membership of the House by … Read more : Karnataka crisis: High Court to hear independent MLAs’ case.

Court rejects extradition of Danish national to India

COPENHAGEN – A Danish court Monday rejected a request by the country’s justice ministry to extradite a Danish national to India, where he is wanted in connection with a 1995 arms drop.

Niels Holck, who has used at least two aliases, has been wanted by India since 2002 over his alleged role in the drop [..] Read the original article: here.

Law to regulate hawking rights soon

NEW DELHI – The government Monday assured street vendors that it will soon frame laws to regulate hawking rights in five states including Delhi.

The assurance was given by P.K. Mohanty, head of the government’s city modernisation programme, the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), when he met activists working for vendors’ community …. Source article  : Law to regulate hawking rights soon.

‘At 96, Justice Iyer continues to be a crusader’

NEW DELHI – Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer, 96, is a crusader and his voice can be heard when freedom is in danger, justice is in jeopardy or probity in public life is in peril, said union Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy.

Addressing a meeting organized Monday to celebrate the 96th birthday of … Read more »».

Gujarat lawyers don’t want courts to open on all Saturdays

GANDHINAGAR – Advocate groups have opposed the Gujarat High Court’s decision to make lower courts work on all Saturdays in a month from the new year to counter the mounting backlog of cases.

Like state government offices, lower courts, at present, observe a holiday on the second and the fourth Saturday of a month.
…. Source  : Gujarat lawyers don’t want courts to open on all Saturdays.

No legal action against Arundhati: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Monday said no action according to law could be taken against author-activist Arundhati Roy for her alleged seditious speech on Kashmir last month.

“Section 124(A) (related to sedition) of the (Indian Penal Code) IPC is for deterrence and punishment. The spirit of the law and true interpretation …. Source article  : No legal action against Arundhati: Chidambaram.

Court backs government on phasing out Blueline buses

NEW DELHI – Delhi High Court Monday declined to restrain a government notification to phase out the capital’s Blueline buses notorious for their reckless drivers.

The direction was passed on a petition filed by a federation of Blueline buses challenging the Delhi governments Oct 27 notification ordering the phasing out of the last of the …. Read the original article  : Court backs government on phasing out Blueline buses.

Court upholds government ruling on tenure, age for sports officials

NEW DELHI – The chiefs of National Sports Federations (NSFs) received a jolt Tuesday with the Delhi High Court upholding the sports ministry’s guidelines restricting their tenure of office and fixing the upper age limit.

The court ruling makes it clear that all national sports bodies will have to follow a fixed tenure of maximum … Read more : Court upholds government ruling on tenure, age for sports officials.

Sports federation chiefs can’t be over 70 years: Court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Tuesday directed the central government to implement its national sports policy under which the upper age limit for the heads of sports federations has been fixed at 70 years.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Deepak Misra gave the direction while turning down a plea of five … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sports federation chiefs can’t be over 70 years: Court.

Manipur’s ‘Iron Lady’ completes 10 years of hunger strike

IMPHAL – Manipur rights activist Irom Sharmila Tuesday completed 10 years of her hunger strike to protest alleged rights violations by security forces, but still refused to break the fast.

Sharmila, who earned the sobriquet ‘Iron Lady of Manipur’, launched an indefinite hunger strike Nov 2, 2000 after she was witness to the killing of …. Original source  : Manipur’s ‘Iron Lady’ completes 10 years of hunger strike.

British prisoners to get voting rights

LONDON – Breaking a 140-year-old convention, Britain has decided to change its law and allow prisoners to vote in the country’s general election, as ruled by a European court six years ago.

Around 70,000 prisoners will be given voting rights for the first time in 140 years after Prime Minister David Cameron conceded there was … Read : British prisoners to get voting rights.

Karnataka HC issues notice to Speaker on independent MLAs’ disqualification

BANGALORE – Karnataka High Court on Tuesday issued notices to Speaker K.G. Bopaiah and other respondents on petitions filed by five independent MLAs challenging their disqualification from the Assembly and posted the matter for further hearing on November 8.

The notices were issued by a full bench comprising Justices Mohan Shantanagoudar, S. Abdul Nazeer … Read more : Karnataka HC issues notice to Speaker on independent MLAs’ disqualification.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Canadian party seeks justice

TORONTO – Canadian opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), which is desperately trying to woo the Sikh community, Wednesday described the anti-Sikh riots following Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination as “the tragic pogroms of 1984 that targeted Sikh men, women and children”.

“The New Democratic Party of Canada stands in solidarity with the Sikh community, demands …. Source article  : 1984 anti-Sikh riots: Canadian party seeks justice.

Britain working to change arrest law, Hague says

JERUSALEM/RAMALLAH – The British government is working to change a law which has seen Israeli officials threatened with lawsuits in Britain, visiting British Foreign Secretary William Hague said in Ramallah Wednesday.

“We will soon be putting a proposal to change the law,” he told a joint news conference with Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad.
But, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Games displaced 250,000 people in Delhi’

NEW DELHI – Around 250,000 people lost their homes due to evictions and demolitions conducted for security measure taken for the 2010 Commonwealth Games (CWG), a human rights organisation said here Wednesday.

“Most of the demolitions and forced evictions have been characterised by lack of notice and due process, large police presence, destruction of personal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Games displaced 250,000 people in Delhi’.

Apex court cautions high courts on use of powers

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has said that delays and laches is one of the important factors which a high court must bear in mind while exercising discretionary powers under Article 226 of constitution.

“In relation to land acquisition proceedings, the court should be loathe to encourage stale litigation as the same might hinder … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Apex court cautions high courts on use of powers.

Israel’s deputy PM cancels Britain trip to evade arrest

LONDON – Israel’s deputy prime minister Dan Meridor was forced to cancel his trip to Britain following warnings that he could be arrested for alleged war crimes, a media report said.

Meridor, who is also the Israeli minister for intelligence and atomic energy, pulled out of an event in London Monday after the British Foreign …. Original article  : Israel’s deputy PM cancels Britain trip to evade arrest.

Lok Sabha speaker pitches for land to tillers

ALLAHABAD – Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar Wednesday said that the revolutionary target of land to the tillers should be pursued honestly to sustain the interests of farm labourers and increase the agricultural productivity of India.

Agricultural labourer is the real farmer. With their hard work, we are able to grow crops but they …. Source article  : Lok Sabha speaker pitches for land to tillers.

Female worker claims American Airlines staff grabbed her breasts

CHICAGO – An American Airlines staffer has filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming that co-workers, and even bosses, grabbed her breasts and made lewd comments.

Donna Montefusco had been hired in November 2006 as an assistant in American’s maintenance and engineering department, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.

She alleges in the lawsuit that almost from the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Female worker claims American Airlines staff grabbed her breasts.

Food security will reduce maternal mortality: Expert

NEW DELHI – National Food Security Act can help bring down malnutrition and maternal mortality rates in the country, Biraj Patnaik, principal adviser to the Supreme Court commissioners on right to food, said Wednesday.

“Anaemia during pregnancy is one of the main reasons for maternal death, because that may cause haemorrhage. Food supplement which can …. Original source  : Food security will reduce maternal mortality: Expert.

Dhaka court questions repatriation of Pakistani war criminals

DHAKA – A Dhaka court has questioned the “Delhi Treaty” under which Bangladesh agreed to return 195 Pakistani soldiers who had surrendered in the 1971 war. It has asked the government as to why it could not be directed to bring these men back for trial.

The Pakistan Army personnel, who were prisoners of war … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dhaka court questions repatriation of Pakistani war criminals.

Muslim sues Oklahoma state for banning Sharia law

WASHINGTON – Two days after Oklahoma voters approved a ballot measure banning state courts from considering Islamic Sharia law or international law while making a judgement, a local Muslim has filed a federal lawsuit saying the measure is unconstitutional.

The lawsuit against ballot measure, …. Source  : Muslim sues Oklahoma state for banning Sharia law.

Lawyers petition UN over jailed Nobel dissident

BEIJING – Lawyers have filed petitions urging the UN to press China to release Nobel Peace Prize winner Liu Xiaobo from prison and free his wife from house arrest, a report said Friday.

A team of international lawyers filed an “urgent action petition” with the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention Thursday, asking it to … Read : Lawyers petition UN over jailed Nobel dissident.

Land favours to Hooda aide irks court

CHANDIGARH – “Favouritism” shown by various agencies of the Haryana government to a senior state functionary has invited the wrath of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

The high court, while quashing the “illegal release of land” to Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s principal adviser R.N. Prasher, has passed strictures against the Haryana government and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Land favours to Hooda aide irks court.

‘Teesta Setalvad not worried about court probe’

AHMEDABAD – The Citizens for Justice and Peace, the Mumbai-based voluntary organization fighting for the 2002 Gujarat riot victims, stated Thursday that its secretary, Teesta Setalvad, was not worried about any “investigation” as they had nothing to fear.

The CJP was reacting to the special trial court hearing the post-Godhra Gulberg society … Read more : ‘Teesta Setalvad not worried about court probe’.

India Shining? Income grows, development doesn’t, says UNDP report

NEW DELHI – India ranks 119 among 169 countries on the human development index (HDI) but is among the top 10 nations in the world in terms of growth of income, the 2010 United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report released Thursday shows.

HDI is a measure of development based on information such as life expectancy, … Read : India Shining? Income grows, development doesn’t, says UNDP report.

Repatriation of tribal refugees to Mizoram begins

AGARTALA/AIZAWL – The much-awaited repatriation of tribal refugees from Tripura to Mizoram has begun even as the uncertainty over the return of all migrants looms large, officials said Thursday.

Out of 41,600 tribal refugees, 175 refugees returned to their homes Wednesday afternoon and 90 people were repatriated Thursday.
“The Mizoram and Tripura governments and union …. Source  : Repatriation of tribal refugees to Mizoram begins.

Cabinet approves bill against sexual harassment at workplace

NEW DELHI – The union cabinet Thursday approved a bill to prevent sexual harassment at the workplace.

The Protection of Women against Sexual Harassment at Workplace Bill, 2010 which was formulated after extensive consultations between the ministries of women and child development and law along with several other stakeholders, defines sexual harassment and provides …. Source  : Cabinet approves bill against sexual harassment at workplace.

Obama visit a chance to promote human rights

NEW YORK – US President Barack Obama and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should put human rights at the heart of their discussions when they meet in New Delhi, Human Rights Watch has said.

The world’s largest democracies should make a commitment and encourage each other to protect human rights in their domestic and security …. Read the original article  : Obama visit a chance to promote human rights.

Pakistan court orders cases against MPs with fake degrees

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered the election commission to file cases against parliamentarians who hold fake degrees, a media report said.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry gave this ruling while hearing a plea filed by a former member of the national assembly, Amir Yar Awaran, against his disqualification … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan court orders cases against MPs with fake degrees.

More women respected in Pakistan than India: report

NEW DELHI – Compared to India, a higher percentage of women in Pakistan feel they are treated with respect, says a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report.

According to the report, 81 percent women in Pakistan are treated with respect as compared to 79 percent in India. Even Bangladesh – with 86 percent – fares …. Original source  : More women respected in Pakistan than India: report.

Saudi Arabia bans smoking at airports

RIYADH – A ban on smoking inside Saudi airports will be enforced from Sunday, starting with King Abdul Aziz International Airport in the coastal city of Jeddah.

The ban will be enforced at other airports in the kingdom gradually, where culprits will pay a 200 Saudi riyal fine (around $53).
Special rooms for smoking will …. Read the original article  : Saudi Arabia bans smoking at airports.

Indian victims of Pan Am plane hijack seek Obama’s help

CHANDIGARH – Indian passengers of Pan Am World Airways flight 73, which was hijacked at Karachi en route from Mumbai to New York in September 1986, Saturday urged US President Barack Obama to re-look the case of compensation for them.

“President Obama extolled the courage and fortitude of the Indians during the Mumbai terror attack … Read more >>.

Restrictions on our language triggered Tibet protests: Dalai Lama

DHARAMSALA – China has imposed Mandarin as a medium of instruction in schools in Tibet, triggering demonstrations there, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said Saturday.

“Tibetan language is a very rich language, which can go along with the ancient Sanskrit language. Chinese authority has imposed Chinese language as a medium of instruction in Tibetan …. Original article  : Restrictions on our language triggered Tibet protests: Dalai Lama.

UK’s “Abu Ghraib” in dock over ‘brutal mistreatment’ of Iraqi prisoners

LONDON – Evidence of the alleged brutal mistreatment of Iraqi prisoners at a secret British military interrogation center, known as “the UK’s Abu Ghraib”, has emerged during high court proceedings brought by more than 200 former inmates on Friday.

According to the Guardian, the …. Source article  : UK’s “Abu Ghraib” in dock over ‘brutal mistreatment’ of Iraqi prisoners.

Apex court asks for vigilance chief’s appointment details

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday directed the central government to place before it the file to indicate that it has followed all procedures of consultation in the appointment of P.J. Thomas as the central vigilance commissioner (CVC).

The apex court bench, headed by Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia, also asked the central government whether …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Apex court asks for vigilance chief’s appointment details.

Myanmar democracy icon’s son seeks visa to visit mother

BANGKOK – The second son of Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi Monday sought a visa to enter Myanmar to visit his mother, who is under house arrest but may be released Sunday.

Suu Kyi, the country’s main opposition figure, is serving an 18-month sentence that is due to expire Nov 13.
“They are …. Source article  : Myanmar democracy icon’s son seeks visa to visit mother.

India’s Rescue Foundation wins Taiwan award

TAIPEI – A Taiwan group announced Monday that it would present the 2010 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award to the Rescue Foundation, an Indian non-governmental organization (NGO) that frees teenage girls from forced prostitution.

“For many years, the Rescue Foundation has rescued many women in South Asia who were trafficked and forced into prostitution …. Source article  : India’s Rescue Foundation wins Taiwan award.

Delhi to have new anti-begging law

NEW DELHI – The national capital, which has been using a 51-year-old law to deal with begging, is drafting a more “humane” legislation incorporating various welfare schemes, an official said.

Delhi, along with 17 other states, adopted the (Bombay) Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, which authorises police to detain anyone found begging on the streets.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Delhi to have new anti-begging law.

Apex court rejects Raju’s plea on surrender

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday rejected an application by former chairman of Satyam Computer Services Ltd B. Ramalinga Raju seeking four weeks to surrender before the trial court.

The Supreme Court had Oct 26 cancelled Raju’s bail and had directed him to surrender before the authorities on or before Nov 10.
Raju sought …. Source  : Apex court rejects Raju’s plea on surrender.

ACHR condemns killing of 18 civilians in Assam by NDFB

NEW DELHI – The Asian Centre for Human Rights (ACHR) has strongly condemned the killing of 18 civilians and injuring of nine others in separate attacks allegedly by the National Democratic Front of Boroland (NDFB) in Assam on November 8, 2010 in retaliation against the killing of an NDFB cadre by the security forces in …. Source article  : ACHR condemns killing of 18 civilians in Assam by NDFB.

Monica Bedi’s conviction upheld, sentence reduced

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday upheld the conviction of Bollywood actress Monica Bedi in a passport forgery case, but reduced the sentence to the imprisonment already undergone.

Bedi was caught in Portugal for travelling on a false passport to the name of Sana Malik Kamal. She was sentenced to five years of imprisonment …. Source  : Monica Bedi’s conviction upheld, sentence reduced.

Delhi to host gay parade this month

NEW DELHI – Delhi is all set to host the third edition of the Gay Pride parade Nov 28, an organiser said Monday.

A celebration by gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgenders, the parade is expected to see around 2,000 people march from the Barakhamba Road to Jantar Mantar in central Delhi.
The venue for the …. Read the original article  : Delhi to host gay parade this month.

Apex court seeks vigilance chief’s posting details

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday told the government to place before it the file recording consultations between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Home Minister P. Chidambaram and leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj over the appointment of P.J. Thomas as the central vigilance commissioner (CVC).

“Please (also) bring the record showing …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Apex court raps four states for ignoring police reforms

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday directed the chief secretaries of West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka to be present in the court Dec 6 to answer why these states have not implemented its directions for police reforms.

“We have issued notice in the first instance to following four states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Apex court raps four states for ignoring police reforms.

New twist in Karnataka Independents disqualification case

BANGALORE – The disqualification case of five Independent lawmakers of Karnataka Monday took a new turn with two of the five voters, on whose petition the five legislators lost the assembly membership, claiming they were forced to lodge the complaint.

The two voters Monday filed an affidavit in the Karnataka High Court, which is hearing …. Original source  : New twist in Karnataka Independents disqualification case.

Chinese artist urges Cameron to raise human rights in Beijing

LONDON – Leading Chinese artist Ai Weiwei has urged British Prime Minister David Cameron to raise the question of human rights when he travels to China later Monday.

Writing in the Guardian newspaper , Weiwei, who was reported to have been placed under renewed house arrest, criticized global leaders for being “reluctant” to raise the …. Read the original article  : Chinese artist urges Cameron to raise human rights in Beijing.

Supreme Court raps four states for ignoring police reforms

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday directed the chief secretaries of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal to be present in the court Dec 6 to answer why these states have not implemented its directions for police reforms.

Given in a September 2006 judgment, these directives involved setting up state security commissions, fixed tenures … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court raps four states for ignoring police reforms.

Rajya Sabha panel holds Justice Sen guilty of corruption

NEW DELHI – A three-member committee formed by the Rajya Sabha to enquire into a impeachment motion against Calcutta High Court judge Soumitra Sen has held him guilty of corruption.

The panel, constituted by Rajya Sabha Chairman Hamid Ansari, was headed by Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy and comprised Punjab and Haryana High …. Read the original article  : here.

Jury will not see pics of sex statues in Prince of Brunei lawsuit

NEW YORK – A Manhattan judge has ruled that the jury will not get to see pictures of the life-size statues the Prince of Brunei had made of himself having sex with one of his fiancees.

The Manhattan Supreme Court judge, Ira Gammerman, who is presiding over the case of Prince Jefri Bolkiah, said the pictures …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jury will not see pics of sex statues in Prince of Brunei lawsuit.

Hearing on Amit Shah’s bail adjourned

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday adjourned hearing on a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) appeal seeking cancellation of bail to former Gujarat minister Amit Shah in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake shootout case.

Shah, former minister of state for home, was arrested by the CBI July 25 for his alleged involvement in the killing. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hearing on Amit Shah’s bail adjourned.

Ramalinga Raju, five others surrender before trial court

HYDERABAD – B. Ramalinga Raju, the prime accused in the multi-crore Satyam accounting fraud, and five others surrendered before a trial court here Wednesday.

Ramalinga Raju, his brother B. Rama Raju, former Satyam CFO V. Srinivas and three other former employees of the IT firm — G. Ramakrishna, Venkatapathi Raju and Srisailam — surrendered before …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ramalinga Raju, five others surrender before trial court.

Apex court reserves order on Amar Singh, Jaya Prada plea

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday reserved its order on a petition of former Samajwadi Party general secretary Amar Singh and actor Jaya Prada, and said that as unattached members of the house they were not covered under the 10th Schedule of the constitution that provides for disqualification of members if they defy the … Read more : Apex court reserves order on Amar Singh, Jaya Prada plea.

‘Better implemention of laws needed to protect children’

NEW DELHI – Delhi Minister for Women and Child Development Kiran Walia Tuesday said that instead of new laws, better implementation of the existing ones was needed to protect children’s rights.

“More than laws, we need self-realisation and sensitisation on part of the institutions which have been assigned the authority to implement laws related to …. Read the original article  : here.

Meeting Obama was memorable experience for woman panchayat leader (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The interaction may have lasted just a few minutes, but for Sharmi Bai, a panchayat leader from Rajasthan, interacting with US President Barack Obama at St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai Sunday was a proud and memorable experience.

While language was a barrier, Sharmi Bai was nevertheless very excited to share with him …. Source  : Meeting Obama was memorable experience for woman panchayat leader (Second Lead).

Satyam fraud case: Supreme Court rejects Ramalinga Raju’s plea

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected the plea of former Satyam chairman B. Ramalinga Raju, seeking extension of tomorrow’s deadline for his surrender.

The apex court had earlier cancelled Raju’s bail and directed him to surrender by November 10.

However, Raju had moved an application seeking extension of this deadline to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Satyam fraud case: Supreme Court rejects Ramalinga Raju’s plea.

RTI yet to reach Orissa’s tribals, Dalits

BHUBANESWAR – They constitute some of the most neglected sections of Indian society, but Orissa’s tribals and Dalits may soon make use of a powerful tool to improve their lot — the Right to Information (RTI), which has so far not touched their lives.

The state information commission has intensified efforts to educate tribals and …. Source  : RTI yet to reach Orissa’s tribals, Dalits.

2G Scam: Congress sends back channel message to DMK to remove Raja before court ruling

NEW DELHI/CHENNAI – The Congress is reported to have sent a back channel missive to the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leadership in Tamil Nadu that it should remove Communication and Information Technology Minister A. Raja from the Union Cabinet before the Supreme Court rules on the 2G spectrum scam.

According to Congress sources, Raja …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2G Scam: Congress sends back channel message to DMK to remove Raja before court ruling.

CBI has shielded Rathore, alleges Ruchika’s father

NEW DELHI – Reacting to the verdict of the Supreme Court that granted bail to former Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) SPS Rathore in the Ruchika molestation case, Ruchika’s father Anand Prakash on Thursday demanding an independent inquiry where no police officers are involved in the probe said the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) … Original article on : CBI has shielded Rathore, alleges Ruchika’s father.

Australia revamps skilled migration test

MELBOURNE – Australia has drastically changed its skilled migration test to favour potential migrants with higher skills, experience and better command over the English language, Immigration Minister Chris Bowen said Thursday.

“These changes to the points test are an important next step in the series of reforms to the skilled migration programme announced by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australia revamps skilled migration test.

Over 5,000 tourists from five countries avail visa on arrival

NEW DELHI – As many as 5,016 visitors from Finland, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand and Singapore availed of visa on arrival in India between January-October this year, officials said Thursday.

As a facilitative measure to attract more foreign tourists, a scheme of ‘Visa on Arrival’ (VoA) was launched this January for citizens of five countries …. Read the original article  : Over 5,000 tourists from five countries avail visa on arrival.

Complainant opposes Rathore’s bail, seeks judicial probe

CHANDIGARH/NEW DELHI – One of the main complainants in the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case, Anand Prakash, Thursday said he was opposed to the bail granted to former Haryana police chief S.P.S. Rathore and sought a judicial probe into the 1990 molestation case.

The apex court Thursday granted bail to S.P.S. Rathore, who is serving an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Complainant opposes Rathore’s bail, seeks judicial probe.

Ruchika case: Apex court grants bail to Rathore (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday granted bail to former Haryana director general of police S.P.S. Rathore, who is serving an 18-month jail sentence in the 1990 Ruchika Girhotra molestation case.

The apex court bench of Justice P. Sathasivam and Justice B.S. Chauhan said Rathore would not leave the country without specific permission of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ruchika case: Apex court grants bail to Rathore (Second Lead).

Ruchika molestation case: Supreme Court grants bail to former Haryana DGP Rathore

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Thursday granted bail to former Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) SPS Rathore in the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case.

The apex court took the decision keeping into account the closure report filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the fact that he had already spent six months … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ruchika molestation case: Supreme Court grants bail to former Haryana DGP Rathore.

Apex court grants bail to Rathore in molestation case

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday granted bail to former Haryana director general of police S.P.S. Rathore, who is serving an 18-month jail sentence for molesting teenager Ruchika Girhotra in 1990.

The apex court bench of Justice P. Sathasivam and Justice B.S. Chauhan said Rathore would not leave the country without specific permission of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Apex court grants bail to Rathore in molestation case.

Goa freedom fighters protest celebration of Portuguese arrival

PANAJI – Goan freedom fighters are up in arms again. They had once fought against Portuguese rule in the state and this time they are opposing grand plans to mark 500 years of the arrival of the colonisers.

More than 1,000 elderly freedom fighters have demanded that the state government boycott the celebration of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Goa freedom fighters protest celebration of Portuguese arrival.

Ishrat case: Supreme Court rejects Gujarat Govt plea challenging SIT probe

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a Gujarat Government plea challenging the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by the Gujarat High Court to probe the “fake” encounter killing of Ishrat Jahan and three others.

An apex court bench comprising of justices B Sudershan Reddy and S S Nijjar rejected the …. Source article  : Ishrat case: Supreme Court rejects Gujarat Govt plea challenging SIT probe.

US women sues former employers for ordering her ‘to hide too big boobs’

LONDON – A US woman has filed a lawsuit against her former employers for gender discrimination claiming she was ordered to hide her breasts because they were too large.

Amy-Erin Blakely claims she endured six years of harassment about the size of her chest at the Devereux Foundation, a children’s mental health organisation in Orlando, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US women sues former employers for ordering her ‘to hide too big boobs’.

Ishrat Jahan case: apex court upholds special probe team

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday dismissed an appeal by the Gujarat government challenging the setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the killings of Ishrat Jahan and three others’ in a suspected fake shootout by the state police.

The Gujarat government had moved the Supreme Court challenging the state high … Read : Ishrat Jahan case: apex court upholds special probe team.

Court stops screening of Satyajit Ray’s ‘Sikkim’

KOLKATA – Within minutes of the first public screening of Satyajit Ray’s documentary “Sikkim” at the 16th Kolkata Film Festival, its remaining shows during the event were suspended following a direction by a Sikkim court, an official said.

An order by the district judge court of Gangtok has forced the festival authorities to suspend the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Court stops screening of Satyajit Ray’s ‘Sikkim’.

Topless Ukraine feminists protest Iranian woman’s death sentence

KIEV – A group of female protesters went topless in Ukraine Thursday at an event promoting Iranian culture, to demonstrate against the death sentence handed down to a woman in Iran for murder and adultery.

Five members of the Ukrainian group Femen tore off their clothing and shouted slogans against what they called court-sanctioned murder … Read more : Topless Ukraine feminists protest Iranian woman’s death sentence.

Eliminate beggary in humane manner, states told

NEW DELHI – All states have been asked to develop a data base on the extent of beggary and to eliminate it rapidly, but in a “humane” manner, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment D. Napolean said Thursday.

In a written reply, Napolean told the Rajya Sabha that union Minister for Social Justice … Read : Eliminate beggary in humane manner, states told.

2G spectrum allocation flawless, government tells apex court

NEW DELHI – The government Thursday told the Supreme Court that the department of telecommunication (DoT) acted in public interest and in pursuance of its policy decision while allocating 2G spectrum licences to telecom operators in 2008.

In an affidavit filed Thursday, the government opposed a plea of petitioner Centre for Public … Original source on Gaea Times at : 2G spectrum allocation flawless, government tells apex court.

No lapses in 2G spectrum allocation, apex court told

NEW DELHI – The central government Thursday told the Supreme Court that the department of telecommunication acted in public interest and on the basis of settled policy in the issuance of licences to telecom operators for 2G spectrum.

An affidavit filed by the government Thursday said no case was made out for an … Read more >>.

US Supreme Court keeps military gay ban in place

WASHINGTON – The US Supreme Court refused Friday to intervene in the legal battle aimed at ending the military’s policy banning gays from openly serving in the armed forces.

The Supreme Court rejected a request from the Log Cabin Republicans, a gay advocacy group, to overrule a previous court decision, effectively keeping the ban in …. Source article  : US Supreme Court keeps military gay ban in place.

Pro-industry tribal groups move court for Vedanta project

BHUBANESWAR – At least eight pro-industry tribal groups Friday moved the Orissa High Court against the central environment ministry’s order disapproving the London-listed Vedanta’s refinery expansion in the state citing violations, a lawyer said.

The public suits were filed by residents of Kalahandi and Rayagada districts on behalf of their groups, lawyer Partha Mukherji told …. Source  : Pro-industry tribal groups move court for Vedanta project.

Orissa to wait for apex court verdict on Polavaram

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Friday said his government will wait for the Supreme Court verdict on the controversial Polavaram dam project, to be built by Andhra Pradesh on river Godavari, to chalk out its future course of action.

“We will wait for the judgment of the Supreme Court. Then we will see …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Orissa to wait for apex court verdict on Polavaram.

Ishrat Jahan case: Supreme Court upholds special probe

NEW DELHI – In a setback to the Gujarat government, the Supreme Court Friday rejected its petition challenging the setting up of a Special Investigating Team (SIT) by the state high court to investigate the killing of Ishrat Jahan and three others in an alleged fake shoot-out.

Rejecting the Gujarat government’s plea, an apex court …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ishrat Jahan case: Supreme Court upholds special probe.

Aung San Suu Kyi to be set free – finally

LONDON – Pro-democracy leader, Nobel Laureate and India-educated Aung San Suu Kyi is to be set free, most probably Saturday, after Myanmar’s military junta Friday signed an order authorising her release.

BBC quoted reports from Myanmar as saying that the military had signed the release order. The development saw a sudden increase in police activity …. Source article  : Aung San Suu Kyi to be set free — finally.

Delhi High Court dismisses N D Tiwari’s plea against fine in paternity suit

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court on Friday dismissed veteran Congress leader and former Andhra Pradesh Governor N D Tiwari’s plea challenging imposition of Rs 75,000 as cost on him for seeking deletion of certain paragraphs from a paternity suit filed against him by a man, who is claiming to be his biological son.

A …. Source  : Delhi High Court dismisses N D Tiwari’s plea against fine in paternity suit.

Facebook banned for hours in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH – The social networking website Facebook was restricted in Saudi Arabia for several hours Saturday, according to users.

Users of the widely-popular Facebook were only able to access the website around sundown.
According to a source at the Telecommunications Agency in Saudi Arabia, the site was restricted most of the day because it did … Original source on Gaea Times at : Facebook banned for hours in Saudi Arabia.

Nobel committee invites Suu Kyi to Oslo

OSLO – Norway’s Nobel committee Saturday invited Aung San Suu Kyi to Oslo to make a belated acceptance speech for the peace prize she won 19 years ago but did not pick up.

The Myanmar opposition icon was honoured in 1991 for her non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights, but was unable to travel …. Source  : Nobel committee invites Suu Kyi to Oslo.

Apex court judge mourns inconsistency in judgments

LUCKNOW – Expressing concern over inconsistency in judgments, Supreme Court judge R.V. Raveendran said Saturday that such anomalies had led the common man to lose faith in the judicial system.

“People are afraid of courts because of various anomalies in the practice of laws and filing special leave petitions (SLP) before apex court is regarded … Read : Apex court judge mourns inconsistency in judgments.

Pak SC makes history by issuing notices to spymasters in missing persons case

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Supreme Court made history on Friday by putting on notice the powerful spymasters of Inter Services Intelligence (ISI), Military Intelligence (MI) and Intelligence Bureau (IB) in abduction case of 11 citizens from the Adiala Jail, after …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Colors dragged to court for vulgarity, ‘fake’ wedding on ‘Bigg Boss’

BHOPAL – A civil court here has served notice to the chief executive officer (CEO) of Colors TV channel for showing vulgar content on reality show “Big Boss” and cheating the audience by organising the wedding of an already married couple.

“The court of class two judge Suresh Srivastava served notice to the CEO of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Colors dragged to court for vulgarity, ‘fake’ wedding on ‘Bigg Boss’.

Plan to settle all pending cases within three years: Moily

AGARTALA – The central government has taken initiatives to dispose of all pending cases in various courts across the country within three years, union Law and Justice Minister M. Veerappa Moily said here Saturday.

“The union government, besides taking steps for judicial reforms, is also modernising court administration across the country with the latest …. Original source  : Plan to settle all pending cases within three years: Moily.

NCPCR to recommend programmes for HIV/AIDS affected children

NEW DELHI – The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is preparing a comprehensive document recommending programmes to provide assistance to HIV/AIDS affected children.

The document includes suggestions like juvenile centres and providing legal and social support for children suffering from HIV/AIDS, NCPCR officials said.
We are formulating a comprehensive policy document. …. Source  : NCPCR to recommend programmes for HIV/AIDS affected children.

Indian work visas, OCI cards in high demand in Canada

TORONTO – There is virtually a rush among NRIs in Canada to acquire the Overseas Citizenship of India (OIC). Also, the number of people, mostly white Canadians, seeking work visas for India is also going up rapidly.

Since 2006 when the OCI scheme was introduced, the number of Indo-Canadian seeking the OCI card has almost … Original source on Gaea Times at : Indian work visas, OCI cards in high demand in Canada.

Apex court grants interim relief to Amar Singh, Jaya Prada

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday granted interim relief to former Samajwadi Party general secretary Amar Singh and actor-turned politician Jaya Prada from being expelled as MPs even if they defy their party’s whip in the house.

The apex court bench of Justice Altamas Kabir and Justice Cyriac Joseph granted the relief while …. Source  : Apex court grants interim relief to Amar Singh, Jaya Prada.

Supreme Court to hear 2G Spectrum case today

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will on Monday hear a petition against A. Raja on his alleged involvement in the allocation of 2G Spectrum.

A bench comprising Justices G S Singhvi and A K Ganguly will hear the petition filed by NGO CPIL, which has alleged that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is … Read more >>>.

Foreigners in China can now buy only one home

BEIJING – Foreigners in China will now be allowed to buy only one apartment on the mainland under new rules announced by the government.

Overseas buyers must provide statements to show that they do not own other properties on the mainland, along with proof of at least one year’s employment in the country before home … Read more >>>.

Supreme Court asks Vodafone to deposit Rs.2,500 crore

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday asked telecom major Vodafone to deposit, within three weeks, Rs.2,500 crore as a component of its tax liability on its transaction with Hutchinson International Ltd. for acquiring its India operations Hutch Essar.

The apex court bench of Chief Justice S.H.Kapadia, Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan and Justice Swatanter Kumar asked … Read more >>.

Apex court gives relief to Amar Singh, Jaya Prada

NEW DELHI – Expelled Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh and actress-turned-politician Jaya Prada Monday got relief from the Supreme Court which said they would not attract disqualification from parliament even if they defy the party whip while voting.

Amar Singh is a member of the Rajya Sabha and Jaya Prada is a member of … Read : Apex court gives relief to Amar Singh, Jaya Prada.

CAG report confirms charge against Raja, apex court told

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday was told that the allegation that former telecom minister A. Raja granted 2G spectrum licences in an arbitrary manner to favour certain companies stands vindicated by the final report of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

The apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly … Read more >>.

Answer question on disability in 2011 census, urges campaign

NEW DELHI – Disability carries social stigma in India. But now a new campaign, ‘Badhate Kadam’, hopes to fight this stigma and urges people to answer a question on disability in the 2011 census.

The campaign has been organised by the National Trust, an autonomous body under the social justice and empowerment ministry. Into its …. Original article  : Answer question on disability in 2011 census, urges campaign.

Yeddyurappa made party in lawmakers’ disqualification case

BANGALORE – The Karnataka High Court Monday rejected the plea of Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa not to make him a party to a petition of five Independent lawmakers who have challenged their disqualification from the assembly.

A three-judge bench of Justice Mohan Shantanagoudar, Justice S. Abdul Nazeer and Justice A.S. Bopanna ruled that the …. Source article  : Yeddyurappa made party in lawmakers’ disqualification case.

Suu Kyi’s party seeks legal status

YANGON – Myanmar democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy (NLD) are seeking a judicial order to reinstate it as a legal political party, officials said Wednesday.

The NLD lost its status in May after refusing to register for the Nov 7 general election, the first in more than 20 …. Original article  : Suu Kyi’s party seeks legal status.

Government asked to explain delay in taking decision on 2G spectrum allocation scam

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has asked the Government to explain the delay in taking a decision on the issue of granting sanction to prosecute former Telecom Minister A. Raja in the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

A bench comprising justices G. S. Singhvi and A. K. Ganguly took the decision.

The bench was hearing on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Government asked to explain delay in taking decision on 2G spectrum allocation scam.

Abandoned Gurkha veterans get first home in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Mostly abandoned by their families or left with no one to care for them, 26 octogenarians, who either served in the British Army or are the widows of ex-Gurkha soldiers, have begun a new life in Nepal, thanks to generous donors in the Britain who raised money to build the first old-age home …. Read the original article  : Abandoned Gurkha veterans get first home in Nepal.

33 women protest in Chilean mine

SANTIAGO – A group of 33 women locked themselves up 900 metres underground in a coal mine in the southern Chilean town of Lota to protest the end of a social programme.

The women, who threatened to go on a hunger strike, Tuesday replicated the plight of 33 miners who were trapped 700 metres underground … Read more »».

Tibetan government-in-exile gets court notice on land deals

SHIMLA – The Himachal Pradesh High Court Tuesday issued notice to the Tibetan government-in-exile based in Dharamsala, the Government of India and the state government regarding permission granted to Tibetan refugees for purchase of land in the state.

While issuing the notice, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Kurian Joseph and Justice V.K. Ahuja made …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tibetan government-in-exile gets court notice on land deals.

Vedanta varsity land acquisition quashed, opposition guns for Patnaik

BHUBANESWAR – The Anil Agarwal-owned Vedanta Group suffered another setback Tuesday with the Orissa High Court quashing the process of land acquisition for its proposed university in Puri. The judgment prompted opposition parties to demand Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s resignation.

A division bench of Chief Justice V. Gopal Gouda and Justice B.P. Das delivered the …. Read the original article  : Vedanta varsity land acquisition quashed, opposition guns for Patnaik.

Ela Bhatt honoured with Global Fairness Initiative Award

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has presented the first Global Fairness Initiative Award to Ela Bhatt, founder of the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) that has helped over a million women in India to move forward.

“She (Bhatt) has helped not only women in India but women in South Africa, in Pakistan, Afghanistan, … Original article on : Ela Bhatt honoured with Global Fairness Initiative Award.

Apex court frowns on PM’s silence over Raja (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday took exception to the 15-month “silence” of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on former MP Subramanian Swamy’s plea seeking sanction to initiate proceedings against then telecom minister A. Raja over the 2G spectrum row.

The prime minister could have said that the material on record was insufficient and declined … Read more >>>.

Supreme Court frowns on PM’s silence over Raja

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday took exception to the 15-month “silence” of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on former MP Subramanian Swamy’s plea seeking sanction to initiate proceedings against then telecom minister A. Raja over the 2G spectrum row.

The prime minister could have said that the material on record was insufficient and declined …. Source article  : Supreme Court frowns on PM’s silence over Raja.

Raja ignored PM on 2G, cost nation Rs.1.76 lakh crore: Auditor (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – In the most serious indictment on the 2G-spectrum scam, India’s official auditor Tuesday said former communications minister A. Raja even ignored Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s advice and allotted radio frequency to new telecom players at low prices, resulting in a huge revenue loss of Rs.1.76 lakh crore (nearly $40 billion) to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Raja ignored PM on 2G, cost nation Rs.1.76 lakh crore: Auditor (Roundup).

Court gives ‘Bigg Boss’ reprieve till Monday

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Thursday stayed till Monday a central government order directing Colors TV to change the broadcast timings of its popular reality show “Bigg Boss”, the channel said.

The order of the information and broadcasting ministry has been stayed till Monday when Colors channel’s petition will be heard. Till then, “Bigg … Original article on : Court gives ‘Bigg Boss’ reprieve till Monday.

Rahul, Rakhi, Sudarshan – all dragged to Madhya Pradesh courts

BHOPAL – Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Digvijay Singh, former RSS chief K.S. Sudarshan and TV actress Rakhi Sawant have one thing in common. They have all been dragged to court in Madhya Pradesh.

Cases were filed against the two Congress leaders for comparing the Hindu rightwing Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) with the Students Islamic …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rahul, Rakhi, Sudarshan – all dragged to Madhya Pradesh courts.

Controversy over purchasing of land by Tibetans in Himachal

DHARAMSALA – The Central Tibetan Administration has denied receiving any notice so far by the Himachal Pradesh High Court on the issue of purchase of land by Tibetans in the State.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court issued notices on Tuesday to Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamsala, the Government of India and the State government regarding … Original article on : Controversy over purchasing of land by Tibetans in Himachal.

Government gets till Saturday to file 2G spectrum affidavit (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday asked the solicitor general to file an affidavit by Saturday detailing the government’s action in response to the application seeking sanction to prosecute A. Raja, who recently quit as telecom minister.

Adjourning the hearing, the apex court bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and A.K. Ganguly also said it … Original source on Gaea Times at : Government gets till Saturday to file 2G spectrum affidavit (Second Lead).

Forensic expert tells court that pregnant Canadian Sikh woman was strangled, burned

Victoria (British Columbia, Canada), – The Supreme Court in the Canadian province of British Columbia has been told that by a forensic pathologist that a pregnant Canadian Sikh woman was strangled and burned before her body was deposited on a beach.

Dr. Charles Lee provided the testimony in B.C. Supreme Court on Wednesday at the second-degree …. Source article  : Forensic expert tells court that pregnant Canadian Sikh woman was strangled, burned.

2G scam: Supreme Court asks govt. to file affidavit on PM’s behalf

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Thursday asked for an affidavit to be filed by Saturday on behalf of the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, which explains why he took close to a year to respond to a request for the prosecution of former Telecom Minister A Raja over 2G scam.

Delivering the order, the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam: Supreme Court asks govt. to file affidavit on PM’s behalf.

2G scam: Government to respond in Supreme Court today

NEW DELHI – The Government will on Thursday respond to remarks by Supreme Court on the inaction and silence of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on a complaint seeking action against former Telecom Minister A. Raja over the 2G spectrum allocation.

Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium will address the Supreme Court’s queries related to Dr. Singh’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 2G scam: Government to respond in Supreme Court today.

White Britons to be a minority – in 50 years

LONDON – White Britons will become a minority in Britain by 2066, an expert has said.

David Coleman, professor of demography at Oxford University, said the decline in white population would be due to a record breaking immigration along with the departure of thousands of Britons to greener pastures.
The Sun quoted Coleman as saying … Read this article on Gaea Times at : White Britons to be a minority — in 50 years.

Solicitor general embroidering or stretching truth: Subramanian Swamy

NEW DELHI – Janata Party leader Subramanian Swamy Wednesday alleged that Solicitor General Gopal Subramanian could have been misled by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on communications with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the 2G spectrum allocation issue.

The solicitor general has either been misled by the PM’s office or misinformed the court, Swamy told … Read more »»».

Court asks government for affidavit on action against Raja

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday adjourned hearing on the 2G spectrum allotment case and asked the government to file an affidavit detailing the action in response to the application seeking sanction to prosecute A. Raja, who recently quit as telecom minister.

Adjourning the hearing, the apex court bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Court asks government for affidavit on action against Raja.

Iran’s HR boss justifies ’stoning’, calls UN censure “politicisation of human rights”

NEW YORK – Iran’s top human rights official has given a robust defence of his country’s right to engage in the stoning of criminals and imprison lawyers viewed as threatening the stability of the Islamic Republic, as he assailed the United Nations’ censure against Tehran for what it said was an accelerating crackdown on its … Read more >>.

Asylum seekers sew lips to protest detention

SYDNEY – Asylum seekers at Australia’s Christmas Island centre have sewn their lips shut in protest against their detention, a media report said Friday.

Immigration Minister Chris Bowen confirmed that 10 out of 160 people engaged in a peaceful protest have sewn their lips, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.
Bowen warned the protesters their … Read more : Asylum seekers sew lips to protest detention.

Attorney General Vahanvati to represent PM in 2G spectrum case

NEW DELHI – Attorney General G. E Vahanvati will now represent Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in the 2G Spectrum allotment case before the Supreme Court.

Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium will now represent only the Department of telecommunications (DoT).

Vahanvati told reporters that the government has asked him to represent the Prime Minister in the case.

The Supreme … Read more >>.

No transfer of Ghaziabad provident fund case: Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday declined the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) plea for transferring the trial in Ghaziabad district court’s multi-crore provident fund (PF) scam case outside Uttar Pradesh.

Pronouncing the order, Justice D.K. Jain said it could not accept the CBI plea that the trial court judge would not be able …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : No transfer of Ghaziabad provident fund case: Supreme Court.

Attorney general to appear for PM in Raja case

NEW DELHI – Attorney General G. Vahanvati will appear in the Supreme Court Tuesday for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to respond to the apex court’s question on why he did not give sanction to launch criminal proceedings against the now disgraced and former minister A. Raja, informed sources said Friday.

Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium will … Original source on Gaea Times at : Attorney general to appear for PM in Raja case.

George Clooney honoured for humanitarian work

LONDON – Hollywood actor George Clooney was honoured for his philanthropic works at a function in New York.

The “Up In The Air” star attended the Ripple of Hope Awards at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan, where he was felicitated for his humanitarian work in Sudan.
Also present at the occasion was Clooneys father, Nick, …. Source article  : George Clooney honoured for humanitarian work.

Apex court quashes adulteration case against Pepsi

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday set aside a Kerala High court judgment and quashed the prosecution of Pepsico India Holding Private Limited based on complaints alleging presence of pesticide residue in its soft drink.

The apex court bench of Justice Altamas Kabir, Justice Cyriac Joseph and Justice Deepak Verma allowed the appeal …. Read the original article  : Apex court quashes adulteration case against Pepsi.

Court refuses to interfere in Ahmedabad demolition drive

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Thursday refused to interfere in a sealing and demolition drive by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation against illegal constructions but offered relief for some buildings that faced action.

The high court bench of Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice Akil Kureshi came down heavily on officials of the state government …. Read the original article  : Court refuses to interfere in Ahmedabad demolition drive.

Larger bench may take up Punjab Sikhs’ minority status case

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday indicated that it may refer to the constitution bench the question whether Sikhs in Punjab enjoy minority status in respect of setting up educational institutions and availing related benefits.

The apex court bench of Justice B. Sudershan Reddy and Justice S.S. Nijjar said this while hearing the petitions …. Source article  : Larger bench may take up Punjab Sikhs’ minority status case.

Nobel peace award unlikely to be given at December ceremony

OSLO – Chances are slim that the Nobel Peace Prize would be presented at the December ceremony as neither its winner nor a member of his family would be able to attend, the head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee said Thursday.

Chinese activist Liu Xiaobo, a writer and one of China’s leading dissidents, was sentenced … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nobel peace award unlikely to be given at December ceremony.

Every letter from Swamy dealt with: PMO affidavit

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) filed an affidavit in the apex court Saturday saying a letter written by former MP Subramanian Swamy to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in October 2009 acknowledged that he was aware of the steps being taken on his seeking sanction to prosecute then communications minister A. Raja in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Every letter from Swamy dealt with: PMO affidavit.

Attorney General files affidavit on PM’s behalf in Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – Attorney General G. E. Vahanvati filed an affidavit on behalf of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the Supreme Court today to explain why he took close to a year to respond to a request for the prosecution of former Telecom Minister A Raja over the 2G scam.

The 10-page affidavit reads that there … Read more »».

PMO files affidavit in apex court

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Saturday filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court giving details of the letters it received from former MP Subramanian Swamy seeking sanction to prosecute A. Raja over the 2G spectrum controversy, and its response to those letters.

The 10-page affidavit also gave details of the steps … Read : PMO files affidavit in apex court.

Assam’s Bodo tribals ramp demand for separate state

KOKRAJHAR – Assam may be heading for a fresh phase of turmoil with tribal Bodo political and militant groups joining hands to ramp the demand for a separate Bodoland state.

“A separate Bodoland is a genuine demand for getting the political, social and cultural rights of the Bodo people,” Assam Agriculture Minister and senior Bodoland …. Read the original article  : here.

Attorney General to file PM’s affidavit in Supreme Court today

NEW DELHI – Attorney General G. E. Vahanvati will file an affidavit on behalf of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the Supreme Court today to explain why he took close to a year to respond to a request for the prosecution of former Telecom Minister A. Raja over the 2G scam.

Delivering the order, the court …. Source article  : Attorney General to file PM’s affidavit in Supreme Court today.

Supreme Court proved courts’ power to fight corruption: Krishna Iyer (Interview)

NEW DELHI – Corruption in India is above even god and the Supreme Court has proved that courts continue to support people’s fight against it, former Supreme Court judge and rights activist V.R. Krishna Iyer has said.

The recent remarks by the apex court about Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s “inaction and silence” over the spectrum …. Original article  : Supreme Court proved courts’ power to fight corruption: Krishna Iyer (Interview).

Managements free to fix hours of work, rules Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court said that courts must exercise restraint and refrain from interfering with functions of the managements that involve administrative decisions including fixing of the working hours.

“In our opinion, fixing of hours of work, provided they do not violate any statutory provision or statutory rule, are really management functions and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Managements free to fix hours of work, rules Supreme Court.

Three-member team to oversee Prasar Bharti functioning: Apex court

NEW DELHI – The day-to-day functioning of public broadcaster Prasar Bharti would be carried out by a three-member committee comprising its chief executive officer and two other officers, in accordance with a Delhi High Court order, the Supreme Court ruled Friday.

The directive of the apex court bench of Justice R.V. Raveendran and Justice A.K. …. Read the original article  : Three-member team to oversee Prasar Bharti functioning: Apex court.

Karnataka mining firms to seek apex court stay on ban order

BANGALORE – About 40 mining firms in the state will appeal in the Supreme Court for staying the judgment of the Karnataka High Court upholding the state ban on export of iron ore, an industry representative said Friday.

“We are keeping all options open. We will expeditiously explore approaching the Supreme Court for a …. Source  : Karnataka mining firms to seek apex court stay on ban order.

Supreme Court rejects CBI plea to transfer UP PF scam trial to Delhi

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday rejected a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) plea for transferring the trial of a case involving fraudulent withdrawal of provident fund of Ghaziabad court staff from Uttar Pradesh to a Delhi Court.

It has been reported that the names of some judicial officers and sitting …. Source  : Supreme Court rejects CBI plea to transfer UP PF scam trial to Delhi.

Sean Connery, wife to deposit multi-million dollar bond

LONDON – Veteran actor Sean Connery and his wife Micheline Roquebrune are among 26 people who have been ordered by a Spanish court to deposit a combined bond of $82 million as part of an ongoing property fraud and money laundering probe.

The probe stems from the sale in 1998 of Casa Malibu, a …. Read the original article  : here.

Protestors try to stop Arundhati at meet

BHUBANESWAR – Eleven activists of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) were arrested Sunday for trying to prevent writer-activist Arundhati Roy from attending a meeting here, police said.

Roy was invited to the event organised by human rights groups and tribal organisations.
“We arrested 11 ABVP protestors,” Deputy Commissioner of Police H.K. Lal told IANS.
… Read : Protestors try to stop Arundhati at meet.

Empty chair protest at Nobel peace prize ceremony

LONDON – A Chinese dissident in the US plans to send a message by placing “two empty chairs on the stage” during the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony for jailed pro-democracy Chinese activist Liu Xiaobo.

Yang Jianli, a Chinese veteran of the Tiananmen protests of 1989, is acting as a go between in the preparations for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Empty chair protest at Nobel peace prize ceremony.

Mizoram tribal refugees resist repatriation from Tripura

AGARTALA – The Mizoram government is going ahead with its programme to relocate Reang tribals, who fled to neighbouring Tripura after ethnic clashes 13 years ago, an official said Saturday, but the tribals continued to resist the move.

Over 41,600 Reang tribals, locally called Bru, have been living in six camps in north Tripura’s Kanchanpur …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mizoram tribal refugees resist repatriation from Tripura.

Tractors seized, power cut off, say Vidharbha farmers

NAGPUR – Even as Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan decided to accord top priority to Vidarbha, which has one of the highest incidence of farmers suicides in the country, authorities have seized tractors and cut off power supplies of debt-ridden farmers, that too on the eve of harvesting season, a farmers’ group said Saturday.

…. Original article  : Tractors seized, power cut off, say Vidharbha farmers.

PM seeks to clear airwaves on 2G spectrum scam (Intro Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh dealt suitably with every letter to him for sanction to prosecute then communications minister A. Raja on the alleged second generation (2G) spectrum scam, the Supreme Court was informed Saturday in an affidavit, and sought to set the record straight on a political storm that threatened to envelop … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PM seeks to clear airwaves on 2G spectrum scam (Intro Roundup).

Mizoram tribals protest repatriation

AGARTALA – The Tripura government is going ahead with its programme to relocate Reang tribals, who settled in the state after ethnic clashes in Mizoram, an official said Saturday, but the tribals continued to protest the move.

Over 41,600 Reang tribals, locally called Bru, have been living in six camps in north Tripura’s Kanchanpur sub-division … Read more >>>.

Every letter of Swamy dealt with, PMO says in affidavit (Third Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister’s Office Saturday told the Supreme Court that every communication received from Janata Party president Subramanian Swamy was duly responded to in action, and the decision to grant prosecution of then telecom minister A. Raja could not have been taken without carefully examining the evidence collected by the CBI.

The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Every letter of Swamy dealt with, PMO says in affidavit (Third Lead).

Integrity rule also for judicial posts, government tells court

NEW DELHI – The central government Monday told the Supreme Court that if the criterion of impeccable honesty and integrity in appointments to higher positions has to be followed in every case then all judicial postings would come under scrutiny.

Impeccable honesty and integrity is a criterion for all appointments under the constitution, Attorney General …. Source article  : Integrity rule also for judicial posts, government tells court.

SC raps government, asks how CVC will function in light of criminal case

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Central Government if Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) P.J. Thomas could function effectively in view of various charges levelled against him.

“Without looking into the file, we are concerned that if a person is an accused in a criminal case how will he function as CVC,” a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : SC raps government, asks how CVC will function in light of criminal case.

Himachal villagers protest in Delhi against dam

NEW DELHI/SHIMLA – Around 100 villagers from Himachal Pradesh began a two-day protest in New Delhi Monday against the construction of a hydroelectric project in Sirmaur district that also aims at providing drinking water to Delhi. The project would displace hundreds of people, the protesters said.

The Rs.2,700 crore ($560 million) Renuka dam to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Himachal villagers protest in Delhi against dam.

Can Thomas be an effective CVC, asks Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday asked the central government if Central Vigilance Commissioner P.J. Thomas could function effectively in view of various charges hurled against him.

The apex court bench headed by Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia wondered if a person who is an accused and facing a chargesheet could head a watchdog body.
… Read : Can Thomas be an effective CVC, asks Supreme Court.

US surgeon sues women following ‘Frankenstein’ boobs claim

LONDON – A US cosmetic surgeon has filed a lawsuit against a former patient for claiming in an online post that his botched surgery left her with ‘Frankenstein’ breasts.

Dr Jay Pensler has taken legal action against his former patient stating her comments about his work were destroying his reputation.

Chicago based Pensler decided to launch his … Read : US surgeon sues women following ‘Frankenstein’ boobs claim.

Ex-legislator alleges housing scam in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL – Former Madhya Pradesh lawmaker and Congress leader Prakash Raghuwansi Sunday alleged a scam in a scheme for allotting flats to MPs and legislators in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled state.

Sharing documents with reporters, he said under the scheme houses were mostly allotted to BJP leaders.
The Congress leader, who has moved the …. Read the original article  : Ex-legislator alleges housing scam in Madhya Pradesh.

‘Dalits still being targetted in Uttar Pradesh’

LUCKNOW – The National Commission for Scheduled Castes Sunday rejected the Uttar Pradesh government’s claims of bringing down incidents of violence against Dalits, terming them “baseless and misleading”.

The commission’s newly-appointed chairman P.L. Punia said the state government released figures of only the first six months of this year, and atrocities against Dalits had actually …. Read the original article  : ‘Dalits still being targetted in Uttar Pradesh’.

Sale of liquor near film festival venue opposed

PANAJI – Women’s rights groups in Goa are opposing the sale of liquor close to the venue of the 41st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) here.

The IFFI, which gets underway Monday, is in the crosshairs of the Bailancho Saad, a women’s rights group, with the festival organisers allowing sale of liquor near the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sale of liquor near film festival venue opposed.

PPP demands suo moto in Saifur Rehman audio-tape issue

KARACHI – The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has demanded suo moto action by Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry against people involved in the Saifur Rehman audio-tape issue, Adviser to the Sindh Chief Minister on Information and Archives, Sharmila … Read more : PPP demands suo moto in Saifur Rehman audio-tape issue.

Nobel committee cool to Walesa offer

WARSAW/OSLO – The Nobel committee Monday was cool to an offer by former Solidarity leader Lech Walesa to pick up the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of Liu Xiaobo, since the Chinese dissident and his family will be unable to attend the December award ceremony in Oslo.

“It’s a possibility,” Walesa told Polish Radio, adding …. Original article  : Nobel committee cool to Walesa offer.

Apex court wants better work conditions in national tribunals

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday asked the central government why one standard notification providing for uniform working conditions of all national tribunals was not being issued. The national tribunals are headed by former apex court judges.

The court made this observation in the course of a hearing on a petition which said that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Apex court wants better work conditions in national tribunals.

2G spectrum probe: CBI tells apex court charge-sheet in March

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Monday told the Supreme Court that it would complete its investigation into the second-generation (2G) spectrum allocation scandal and file a charge-sheet by March next year.

There was a transcript of taped telephone conversations running into 5,800 pages, out of which 3,500 pages had been analyzed. … Read more »».

Integrity rule also for judicial posts, government tells court (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The government Monday told the Supreme Court that if its criterion of central vigilance commissioner (CVC) being an outstanding civil servant of impeccable honesty and integrity was to be followed in all postings then every judicial appointment would come under scrutiny.

“Impeccable honesty and integrity is a criterion for all the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Integrity rule also for judicial posts, government tells court (Second Lead).

‘Bigg Boss’ gets further reprieve till Dec 3

MUMBAI – Reality TV show “Bigg Boss” got a further reprieve Monday after the Bombay High Court adjourned till Dec 3 hearing on its appeal against a central government order changing its telecast timings, a Colours channel spokesperson said.

The matter came up before a division bench of Justice D.K. Deshmukh and Justice N.D. …. Original article  : ‘Bigg Boss’ gets further reprieve till Dec 3.

Maximum child abuse cases from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh

NEW DELHI – The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) received 75 cases of child abuse till Oct 31. The highest number of cases were reported from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, the Rajya Sabha was informed Monday.

Minister of Women and Child Development Krishna Tirath said the figure included cases of corporal punishment.
… Read more »».

2G scam: Prime Minister not guilty: Swamy

NEW DELHI – Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy, who is the chief petitioner in the 2G Spectrum case, on Monday told the Supreme Court that there was no malafide on the part of the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, and added that he was badly advised on the issue.

Swamy told the apex court that the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam: Prime Minister not guilty: Swamy.

Myanmar grants visa to Suu Kyi’s son

YANGON – The second son of Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi has been granted a visa to meet his mother, whom he last visited 10 years ago and who was released this month after seven years of house arrest, officials said Monday.

Kim Aris, 33, applied for a visa at the Myanmar embassy … Read more : Myanmar grants visa to Suu Kyi’s son.

UN campaign to protect Delhi women from violence

NEW DELHI – The United Nations Development Fund for Women (Unifem) Monday launched a programme here with the aim of checking violence against women and adolescent girls in public space. Delhi is one of the five cities across the world selected for the “Safe Cities” programme.

The other four cities where the programme, ‘Global …. Source  : UN campaign to protect Delhi women from violence.

PM not to blame for delay in reply, Swamy tells apex court

NEW DELHI – Former MP Subramanian Swamy Tuesday told the Supreme Court that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had no malafide intention in blocking his letter seeking sanction to prosecute then telecom minister Andimuthu Raja in the scandal involving spectrum allocation to mobile companies.

“The prime minister had no evil or bad intention to delay …. Source article  : PM not to blame for delay in reply, Swamy tells apex court.

Over 53 Indians stranded in Libya, says NGO

CHANDIGARH – A non-government organisation (NGO) Lok Bhalai Party (LBP) Tuesday urged the government to rescue over 53 youths from Punjab stranded in Libya.

“Over 53 Punjabi youths are stranded in Libya. They were sent there by unscrupulous travel agents, who had promised them lucrative jobs. But now they are forced to work as … Original article on : Over 53 Indians stranded in Libya, says NGO.

2G scam: Supreme Court examines Manmohan Singh’s affidavit

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Tuesday examined the affidavit filed on behalf of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, that rejects charges of inaction on the part of the PMO in the 2G spectrum scam.

Appearing on behalf of the Prime Minister, Attorney General G E Vahanvati told the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam: Supreme Court examines Manmohan Singh’s affidavit.

PM not obliged to sanction Raja prosecution: Vahanvati to court

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was not obliged under the law to grant sanction to launch prosecution proceedings against then telecom minister A. Raja in the 2G spectrum scam, Attorney General G. Vahanvati told the Supreme Court Tuesday.

Vahanvati, appearing in the case for the first time, conveyed this to the apex court … Read more : PM not obliged to sanction Raja prosecution: Vahanvati to court.

Corruption evidence against Zia, says anti-graft body

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has claimed to have found “convincing” evidence to prove graft charges against former prime minister Khaleda Zia but not against her two sons who are now in exile.

Indications that she might be booked by the ACC came on the day Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced a series …. Read the original article  : here.

2G scam: Supreme Court to examine PM’s affidavit today

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will on Tuesday examine the affidavit filed on behalf of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh that rejects charges of inaction on the part of the PMO in the 2G spectrum scam.

The 10-page affidavit reads that there was no inaction on Prime Minister’s behalf and how the Janata Party President …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam: Supreme Court to examine PM’s affidavit today.

Goa court issues notice to governor’s aide

PANAJI – A local court Wednesday issued notice to Goa Governor S.S. Sidhu’s aide de camp (ADC), who is also a vigilance officer, to appear before it in connection with an alleged land scam.

Judicial Magistrate First Class, Panaji, issued notice to ADC Bosco George.
The notice was issued during the hearing of a petition … Read more : Goa court issues notice to governor’s aide.

Riot panel witness testifies against Teesta Setalvad

AHMEDABAD – A former associate of social activist Teesta Setalvad Wednesday told a panel probing the 2002 Gujarat riots that she fabricated affidavits filed on behalf of the riot victims and tried to mislead courts.

Rais Khan Pathan deposed before the Justices G.T. Nanavati-Akshay Mehta enquiry commission probing the Godhra train carnage and the subsequent [..] Read the original article: here.

Spectrum case is mother of all scams: Apex court

NEW DELHI – Given the enormity of the amount involved, the scandal related to spectrum allocation to mobile companies was the mother of all scams, the Supreme Court said Wednesday.

This scam will put to shame all other scams put together, said the apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly.
The …. Original source  : Spectrum case is mother of all scams: Apex court.

Shabana willing to bring MPs on board for maternal mortality

NEW DELHI – Actor and social activist Shabana Azmi Wednesday said she is willing to take on the responsibility of getting concerned MPs on board to work on the issue of maternal mortality in India.

“MPs need an emotional trigger to commit themselves to the issue of maternal health. The fact that 60,000 to 80,000 …. Source article  : Shabana willing to bring MPs on board for maternal mortality.

Letter casts aspersions on judges hearing spectrum case

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday revealed that it had received a letter alleging that the bench hearing the case related to allocation of spectrum to mobile companies had been “managed”.

The apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly’s revelation shocked the people present in the court including Solicitor General … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Letter casts aspersions on judges hearing spectrum case.

Supreme Court reserves order on Swamy’s plea

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday reserved its order on Janata Party chief Subramanian Swamy’s petition seeking direction to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to grant him sanction to prosecute then telecom minister A. Raja over the scandal involving spectrum allocation to mobile companies.

While reserving the verdict, the apex court bench of Justice G.S. …. Read the original article  : here.

CBI open to filing report in apex court on spectrum probe

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Wednesday told the Supreme Court that it was willing to file a status report, as and when required, on its investigations into the scandal involving spectrum allocation to mobile companies.

The investigating agency told the court that it would argue on merit the petition by …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ordinary policemen deserve basic amenities: Mahasweta Devi

KOLKATA – Magsaysay Award winner Mahasweta Devi Wednesday criticised the West Bengal government for the “injustice” meted out to low-ranking policemen, saying that they deserved basic amenities which, if denied, could lead to a “mutiny”.

“The Marxist-led state government in the last 33 years did not gave anything to the people and the policemen in … Read more : Ordinary policemen deserve basic amenities: Mahasweta Devi.

CBI ready to file report in apex court on spectrum probe

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Wednesday told the Supreme Court that it was willing to file a status report on its investigations into the scandal involving spectrum allocation to mobile companies.

The investigating agency said the status report could be filed after every eight weeks till the filing of the … Read more »»».

2G scam: Supreme Court reserves verdict on Swamy’s plea to prosecute Raja

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Wednesday reserved its verdict on a plea seeking a direction to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for grant of sanction to prosecute former Telecom Minister A Raja in the 2G Spectrum case.

A bench of Justices G S Singhvi and … Read more »».

Clarify stand on tainted officials’ postings: Himachal court

SHIMLA – The Himachal Pradesh High Court has asked the state government to clarify its stand on the postings of tainted officials occupying crucial posts.

Taking note of officers of doubtful integrity being placed in sensitive posts by the government, a division bench of Chief Justice Kurian Joseph and Justice V.K. Sharma asked the chief …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Clarify stand on tainted officials’ postings: Himachal court.

Blunder means 1m Church of England marriages are ‘invalid’

LONDON – Lawyers for the Church of England have revealed that more than one million marriages in Britain are legally “invalid” all because the vicars who married them used the wrong form of words.

The error opens up the possibility that married partners heading for a divorce may try to deny their spouse maintenance, support or …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Blunder means 1m Church of England marriages are ‘invalid’.

Virbhadra to appear before court in graft case

SHIMLA – Union Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh and his wife Pratibha Singh would be appearing before a trial court Nov 30 in connection with a corruption case against them, a lawyer said Friday.

Special Judge B.L. Soni had issued a notice to the couple Oct 23 in the corruption case registered against them by the …. Original source  : Virbhadra to appear before court in graft case.

Pak Supreme Court can issue notices to spymasters as no one above law: Chief Justice

ISLAMABAD – The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ruled that it has the authority under the constitution to serve notices to intelligence agencies, as no one is above the law.

“The apex court has wider jurisdiction under Article 184(3) and Article 185 of the constitution to issue notices pertaining to important public cases,” the Daily Times …. Source article  : Pak Supreme Court can issue notices to spymasters as no one above law: Chief Justice.

Plea on appointment of judges referred to larger bench

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday referred to the larger bench a petition seeking details of the apex court collegium on the appointment of judges in higher judiciary.

Using the Right To Information (RTI) Act, the petitioner Subhash Agarwal had also sought information on the correspondence between the chief justice of India and the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Plea on appointment of judges referred to larger bench.

Teesta denies fabricating riot victims’ affidavits

GANDHINAGAR – Activist Teesta Setalvad, general secretary of Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP), has denied allegations made by a former associate that she fabricated affidavits of the 2002 Gujarat communal riot victims.

Her denial came in a counter-affidavit filed Thursday before the Justices G.T. Nanavati-Akshay Mehta enquiry commission probing the Godhra train carnage … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Teesta denies fabricating riot victims’ affidavits.

138 illegal structures demolished in north Delhi

NEW DELHI – As many as 138 illegal structures on government land were demolished by the revenue department Thursday in north Delhi, an official said.

The demolition took place in Narela.
“A total of 138 structures, mainly boundary walls, some rooms and houses were demolished in Bajitpur Thakran village. Criminal proceedings have also been initiated,” … Original article on : 138 illegal structures demolished in north Delhi.

Loss to exchquer key question in spectrum case: Apex court

NEW DELHI – As the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Thursday offered to file in the Supreme Court a status report on its probe into the scandal involving allocation of spectrum to mobile companies, the court said the basic question was the “huge loss to the public exchequer and consequent pecuniary gains to private operators”. …. Read the original article  : here.

CIC drive to dispose over three-month-old cases

NEW DELHI – The Central Information Commission (CIC) has launched a special drive to dispose right to information (RTI) cases which are more than three months old, the Rajya Sabha was informed Thursday.

Minister of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions V. Narayansamy, replying to a written question, said: “The CIC has launched a special drive …. Original source  : CIC drive to dispose over three-month-old cases.

Frivolous petitioner told to pay Rs.1 lakh

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Thursday imposed costs of Rs.1 lakh on an organization for a frivolous plea seeking amendment to the existing laws and demanding a new legislation to protect men from atrocities by their wives.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice K.M. Thaker imposed the costs on the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Frivolous petitioner told to pay Rs.1 lakh.

LHC seeks Pak govt’s reply on petition seeking Musharraf’s trial for high treason

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court has sought a reply from the Pakistan government on December 21 on a petition seeking former president Pervez Musharraf’s trial on high treason charges.

On Friday, a junior law officer appeared before the court on Deputy … Read : LHC seeks Pak govt’s reply on petition seeking Musharraf’s trial for high treason.

Demand for details on judges goes to constitutional bench

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday referred to the constitution bench whether details including file notings and correspondence in pursuance to the appointment of judges to higher judiciary could be accessed under the Right to Information Act.

“We are of the considered opinion that a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of …. Read the original article  : Demand for details on judges goes to constitutional bench.

Mandatory HIV testing no longer required for Indian visa

NEW DELHI – Foreign nationals coming to India will no longer have to sign an undertaking regarding their HIV status in their visa forms, the Forum of Parliamentarians on HIV and AIDS said Friday, describing the move as “very heartening”.

Navneet S. Tewatia, coordinator of the forum, said: “The ministry of health and family … Read more >>.

Supreme Court orders Allahabad HC to do some ‘house cleaning’

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday questioned the integrity of some of the judges of the Allahabad High Court, by saying that “something rotten” was going on within that institution.

A two-judge bench of the apex court, comprising Mr. Justices … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court orders Allahabad HC to do some ‘house cleaning’.

Lawsuit challenges SBI’s life insurance scheme

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court Friday issued a notice to SBI (State Bank of India) Life Insurance on a public interest litigation (PIL), challenging the firm’s scheme of deducting a hefty premium against any housing loan taken from the bank.

Seeking the court issue a writ of mandamus to …. Read the original article  : here.

Law to protect children against sexual offences soon: Tirath

NEW DELHI – The government has proposed to bring in a new law to curb rising number of cases of sexual offence against children and a draft bill is at the stage of inter-ministerial consultation, Women and Child Development Minister Krishna Tirath said Friday.

“The draft bill on protection of children from sexual offences is …. Source  : Law to protect children against sexual offences soon: Tirath.

No such thing as ‘pure chocolate’, EU high court rules

LONDON – There is no such thing as ‘pure chocolate’, according to the Court of Justice of the European Union.

The ruling on Thursday voided an Italian law that recognizes some delicacies as ‘pure chocolate’, reports the Telegraph.

The court said that if a product … Read more : No such thing as ‘pure chocolate’, EU high court rules.

‘Brit-Indian honeymooner to return to Cape Town to identify wife’s murderers’

CAPE TOWN – Brit-Indian business tycoon Shrien Dewani, whose wife was killed during their honeymoon trip in Cape Town, would reportedly reach South Africa this weekend to identify the culprits, according to lawyers for two men accused of the crime.

Dewani … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Brit-Indian honeymooner to return to Cape Town to identify wife’s murderers’.

Allotment of Baloch land to US, NATO forces challenged in Lahore HC

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani lawyer has moved the Lahore High Court against the allotment of land to US and NATO forces in Balochistan.

Advocate Illamud Din submitted before the court on Saturday that the government had handed over a big area to foreign forces for setting up an airbase, which was against the country’s sovereignty, the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Moily assures of steps to make judges more accountable

NEW DELHI – A day after the Supreme Court slammed some judges of the Allahabad High Court for nepotism and corruption, union Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily Saturday said the government will take steps to make judges more accountable.

Moily was reacting to the order of the apex court bench of Justice Markandey Katju and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Moily assures of steps to make judges more accountable.

Book Arundhati, Geelani for anti-India speeches: Delhi Court

NEW DELHI – A city court Saturday ordered Delhi Police to register an FIR against Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani, writer-activist Arundhati Roy and five others for making ‘anti-India’ speeches during a seminar here Oct 21.

“The Delhi Police are hereby directed to lodge an FIR under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and …. Original source  : Book Arundhati, Geelani for anti-India speeches: Delhi Court.

Blasphemy accused Pak-Christian woman approaches LHC against death sentence

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani-Christian woman Aasia Bibi’s lawyer has filed a petition in the Lahore High Court against the sessions court decision on November 12, in which she was sentenced to death on charges of blasphemy, Federal Minister for Minority Affairs Shahbaz Bhatti has said.

Bhatti made these revelations while giving a briefing to the National Assembly …. Read the original article  : Blasphemy accused Pak-Christian woman approaches LHC against death sentence.

Britain will need 2 mn new homes for immigrants

LONDON – Britain will need more than two million new homes over the next 25 years to cope with immigration, a media report said Saturday.

Official figures released Friday showed that Britain will have to provide homes for 83,000 migrant families a year if the influx continues at the current rate, reports Daily Mail.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Britain will need 2 mn new homes for immigrants.

Court orders police to file FIR against Geelani, Roy

NEW DELHI – A Delhi court Saturday ordered the police to register an FIR against Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani, writer-activist Arundhati Roy and five others for making anti-India speeches at a conference here Oct 21.

According to an order by Patiala House Court, the others against whom the First Information Report is to be …. Read the original article  : Court orders police to file FIR against Geelani, Roy.

Ratan Tata moves Supreme Court on telephone tapping of Nira Radia

NEW DELHI – TATA Group chairman Ratan Tata on Monday moved the Supreme Court against the publication of intercepts of his conversations with Public Relations (PR) representative Nira Radia, who handles the corporate communication for the Tata Group.

The phone transcripts are part of the evidence in the 2G spectrum scam and have been made public.

Tata’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ratan Tata moves Supreme Court on telephone tapping of Nira Radia.

WikiLeaks: a whistleblower that governments fear

WASHINGTON – WikiLeaks, the whistleblower website at the centre of a storm over leaking 250,000 US diplomatic despatches, is a not-for-profit media organisation launched in 2007 with the professed goal of bringing “important news and information to the public”.

WikiLeaks, which claims to provide “an innovative, secure and anonymous way for sources to leak information …. Source  : WikiLeaks: a whistleblower that governments fear.

Bangladesh apex court upholds Zia’s eviction

DHAKA – Bangladeshs opposition leader Khaleda Zia Monday lost her appeal before the countrys Supreme Court against her eviction by the government from her Dhaka cantonment house.

The apex court dismissed the leave-to-appeal petition filed by the former prime minister. The petition challenged the Dhaka High Court verdict earlier that had declared valid the government …. Read the original article  : Bangladesh apex court upholds Zia’s eviction.

War crimes trial: US special envoy to assist Bangladesh

DHAKA – US War Crimes Ambassador-at-large Stephen Rapp will be here next month to assist Bangladesh in the trial of Islamists accused of war crimes committed during the 1971 liberation movement.

Rapp will be here at the invitation of the Bangladesh government that is preparing to hold trial under its own laws.
The trial’s credibility … Original source on Gaea Times at : War crimes trial: US special envoy to assist Bangladesh.

Israel to build detention centre for illegal migrants

JERUSALEM – The Israeli government Sunday approved a plan to build a detention centre to house migrants who cross illegally into the country from Egypt in search of work.

The centre will provide the migrants with shelter, food and medical services until they are sent back to their countries of origin.
Addressing ministers at the … Original article on : Israel to build detention centre for illegal migrants.

Haryana to set up human rights commission

CHANDIGARH – Haryana will soon set up a human rights commission, Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda said Sunday.

The process to constitute the commission was in progress, Hooda told reporters after a function at Jagadhri town, 120 km from here.
The Haryana government had earlier maintained that there was no need of a human rights …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Government not against court monitoring spectrum probe

NEW DELHI – The central government Tuesday told the Supreme Court that it was not against the court monitoring the CBI probe into the 2G spectrum scam in whatever manner it wanted.

“(The) government has no objection to the court monitoring of the investigation as the government wants to establish its credentials,” Solicitor General Gopal … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Government not against court monitoring spectrum probe.

US cracks down on China-based merchandise websites

WASHINGTON – The US government has disabled dozens of websites based in China for allegedly selling counterfeit merchandise and other goods in violation of copyright laws, authorities said Monday.

US Justice Department and Homeland Security Department seized the domain names of 82 websites, mostly based in China, where the shipments of the purchased goods also …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US cracks down on China-based merchandise websites.

Sibal promises action against errant telecom firms

NEW DELHI – Communications Minister Kapil Sibal Monday said notices will be served on all firms that suppressed facts to buy licences and airwaves for mobile phone services in the country and had fallen short of their roll-out obligations.

He also assured a thorough probe to see if they had manipulated the self-certification process about …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sibal promises action against errant telecom firms.

Scheme to safeguard child rights in Maoist-affected states

NEW DELHI – In an effort to protect the rights of children in areas of civil unrest — including those affected by Maoists, the central government has approved a special scheme which will be implemented in five states on a pilot project basis, parliament was informed Monday.

The scheme, called the Bal Bandhu scheme, … Read more »».

Notices soon on errant telecom companies: Sibal

NEW DELHI – The government will issue notices to companies that supressed facts while securing licences and airwaves for second generation (2G) telecom services in the country between 2006 and 2008, Communications Minister Kapil Sibal said Monday.

He also assured complete investigation to see if these companies had manipulated the self-certification process regarding their financials … Original source on Gaea Times at : Notices soon on errant telecom companies: Sibal.

Ratan Tata goes to court against publication of Radia tapes (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Tata group chairman Ratan Tata moved the Supreme Court Monday seeking judicial restraint on the publication of transcripts of phone intercepts of top corporate lobbyist Nira Radia with leading business, media and political figures on the ground of right to privacy.

The petition was similar to what had been filed by … Read more »»».

Ratan Tata moves court against publication on Radia tapes

NEW DELHI – Tata group chairman Ratan Tata moved the Supreme Court Monday seeking restraint on the publication of transcripts pertaining to the phone intercepts of top corporate lobbyist Nira Radia related with the alleged 2G spectrum scam.

The petition was similar to what had been filed by Radia herself in the Delhi High Court … Read more »»».

52 convicted, eight sent to jail in fodder scam case

RANCHI – A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Ranchi Monday convicted 52 people in a scam related to fraudulent withdrawal of Rs.20 crore from the state treasury to purchase fodder for public distribution and sentenced eight to three years’ imprisonment.

Special CBI Judge A.H. Ansari convicted 52 people in the case related …. Source  : 52 convicted, eight sent to jail in fodder scam case.

Disabled to march in Delhi for their rights

NEW DELHI – Some will be on their wheelchairs, others will be led by their friends or supported by their crutches. On Dec 3 nearly 5,000 disabled people are expected to march in the capital in support of their right to better facilities including a separate ministry for the community.

Dec 3 is the …. Source article  : Disabled to march in Delhi for their rights.

Government planning to raise widows’ pension

NEW DELHI – The women and child development ministry Monday mooted various proposals to better the lives of widows in the country, including raising the pension to Rs. 1,500 a month.

Releasing a study on the condition of widows in the Braj area of Uttar Pradesh here, D.K. Sikri, secretary of the ministry, said the … Original article on : Government planning to raise widows’ pension.