Legal News – Monthly Newsletter January 2011

CVC should step down: Retired Supreme Court judge

KOTTAYAM/NEW DELHI – It would be in the best interests of the country and of the high office he holds if Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) P.J. Thomas steps down, retired Supreme Court judge K.T. Thomas opined Wednesday.

Noting that that the office of the CVC should not be seen as a government office, K.T. Thomas …. Read the original article  : CVC should step down: Retired Supreme Court judge.

Action against violators of rules on marriage processions

NEW DELHI – With the onset of the wedding season, Delhi Police Wednesday asked the residents of the city to strictly adhere to guidelines on marriage processions issued by the Delhi High Court or face strict action for violations.

In advertisements issued in major dailies, Delhi Police said marriage processions on road create traffic …. Read the original article  : Action against violators of rules on marriage processions.

Central Vigilance Commissioner Thomas says he will continue

NEW DELHI -Chief Vigilance Commissioner P.J. Thomas Wednesday said he would continue as the top corruption watchdog, despite the Supreme Court expressing its reservations about him as a fair investigator into the 2G spectrum scam.

“The government appointed me as CVC. I am continuing as CVC,” Thomas told reporters here.
Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium Wednesday … Original source on Gaea Times at : Central Vigilance Commissioner Thomas says he will continue.

US supreme court to hear Microsoft appeal on Word patent

TORONTO – The US supreme court has agreed to hear Microsoft’s appeal in the Word infringement case in which the software giant was held guilty of violating a patent held by Toronto-based i4i Inc. and ordered to pay $290 million in damages last year.

The Canadian company had taken the software giant to court in …. Source  : US supreme court to hear Microsoft appeal on Word patent.

Tamil activists seek arrest of Rajapaksa during Britain visit over last year’s war crimes

LONDON – Lawyers working for Tamil activists are reportedly trying to obtain an arrest warrant against Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa and one of his senior associates, who have arrived in Britain, over ‘war crimes and human rights violations’ during the last phase of combat between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam … Read more >>>.

Government told to deposit Radia conversations with court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday directed the central government to deposit with the registry the original recordings of conversations of corporate lobbyist Nira Radia in connection with the 2G spectrum scam.

Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium informed the court that Central Vigilance Commissioner P.J. Thomas would not be associated in any way with …. Original article  : Government told to deposit Radia conversations with court.

Kamala Harris is California attorney general

WASHINGTON – Four weeks after election day, Democrat Kamala Harris, daughter of an African American father and Indian Tamil mother, finally sealed a narrow but historic win making her the first woman attorney general of California.

“I stand before you today humbled to be chosen to be the next attorney general of this state,” Harris …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kamala Harris is California attorney general.

Gates urges Senate to end military ban on gays

WASHINGTON – US Defence Secretary Robert Gates pressed forward with plans to end the ban on homosexuals serving openly in the military, urging the Senate to repeal the controversial 1993 law by the end of the year.

Gates presented Tuesday a comprehensive report he commissioned when he announced in February plans to repeal the law, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gates urges Senate to end military ban on gays.

EU launches Google anti-trust probe

BRUSSELS – The European Commission Tuesday launched an anti-trust probe into Google following claims that Google’s search engine manipulates results to harm rivals.

The investigation comes after some of Google’s business rivals complained that its search engine gave their products unfair treatment, the commission said in a statement.
The commission “has decided to open an …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Supreme Court issues notice to Yeddyurappa

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday issued notice to Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa and assembly Speaker K.G. Bopaiah on a petition by seven rebel legislators of the Bharatiya Janata Party who were disqualified from the house for expressing their lack of confidence in the chief minister.

An apex court bench of Justice Altamas [..] Read the original article: here.

Spanish woman stakes ownership claim to the sun

LONDON – A woman in Spain has claimed that she is the owner of the sun after she got it registered as her property. She now plans to charge people who benefit from the sun’s energy, it was reported here.

Fortynine-year-old Angeles Duran, a resident of Vigo in Spain’s northwestern region of Galicia, applied for …. Read the original article  : here.

2G scam: Govt. places Radia tapes in sealed cover before Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Central Government on Thursday placed before the Supreme Court the recorded tapes containing the conversations between corporate lobbyist Radia and others in connection with the 2G scam. They were in a sealed cover.

Placing the recorded conversation before the bench comprising Justices G S Singhvi and A K Ganguly, Solicitor General …. Original article  : 2G scam: Govt. places Radia tapes in sealed cover before Supreme Court.

2G scam: Supreme Court to take up Ratan Tata’s petition

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will on Thursday take up a petition filed by Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata that seek a direction to be given to the government to probe the leakage of tapes containing his private conversation with corporate lobbyist Nira Radia.

The petition is listed for mentioning before a two-judge bench … Original article on : 2G scam: Supreme Court to take up Ratan Tata’s petition.

RIM sues app maker over BlackBerry Messenger patent

TORONTO – After software giant Microsoft which is embroiled in a legal battle over Word patent, now BlackBerry maker Research In Motion (RIM) too is entangled in a patent battle.

The Canadian wireless giant has dragged a fast-growing app developer called Kik Interactive Ltd to court here for infringing on its wildly popular BlackBerry Messenger …. Original source  : RIM sues app maker over BlackBerry Messenger patent.

Tariq Aziz’s son pleads for condemned father’s life

Rome, Dec 2 (IANS/AKI) Tariq Aziz’s son Ziad Aziz has pleaded that his father, the condemned former aide to late Iraqi strongman Saddam Hussein, not be put to death. Aziz was for years the “international face” of the regime.

Speaking through a lawyer, Ziad Aziz asked Iraq’s ambassador to Italy Saywan Barzani to transmit … Read more >>.

Court bench refuses to take up Ketan Desai PIL

GANDHINAGAR – A division bench of the Gujarat High Court Wednesday refused to hear a public interest litigation seeking to cancel the candidature of Ketan Desai, former chief of the Medical Council of India (MCI), in the senate elections of Gujarat University (GU).

The bench comprising Justices Jayant Patel and S.R. Brahmbhatt said: “Let … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Court bench refuses to take up Ketan Desai PIL.

Plea for CBI probe against Gujarat ATS officer

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Wednesday issued notice to the state government and police on a petition seeking registration of a complaint and a CBI probe against Indian Police Service (IPS) officer G.L. Singhal over a residential dispute.

A single judge bench of Justice M.R. Shah issued notice following a petition by Vasudev Bhavsar …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Raja should have given serious consideration to PM’s letter’

NEW DELHI – Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium Wednesday said that former telecom minister A. Raja should have given a lot more serious consideration” to Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs letter expressing reservations on the allocation of 2G spectrum on 2001 prices.

He said this after an apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice Ashok …. Read the original article  : here.

Why was TRAI silent for two years: Apex court on 2G

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday asked why the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) was silent for two years on 85 ineligible firms bagging 2G spectrum and the remaining companies that got the airwaves failing to rollout services in varying degrees.

“Apart from the issues being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation … Read : Why was TRAI silent for two years: Apex court on 2G.

Government told to deposit Radia tapes with apex court (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday called for the original taped recordings of the conversations of corporate lobbyist Niira Radia and others relating to 2G spectrum scam to be deposited with the court registry. The government told the court that CVC P.J. Thomas will not supervise the CBI’s probe into the scandal.

The …. Source  : Government told to deposit Radia tapes with apex court (Second Lead).

Apex court permits construction in Noida park

NEW DELHI – In a major relief to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati, the Supreme Court Friday permitted the construction of the Dr.Bhim Rao Ambedkar Park in Noida subject to certain conditionalities.

The forest bench of the apex court in its judgement said that only 25 percent of the total area of the park could …. Source  : Apex court permits construction in Noida park.

This wheelchair-bound weightlifter inspires many (Dec 3 is World Disability Day)

NEW DELHI – Polio bound him to a wheelchair and he faced ridicule the first time he visited a gym. But Joginder Singh Saluja fought the odds to become a weightlifter who is an inspiration for thousands of disabled people.

The 24-year-old, who contracted polio when he was just 10 months old, will receive the …. Source article  : This wheelchair-bound weightlifter inspires many (Dec 3 is World Disability Day).

Lack of opportunity prompts four million Italians to live abroad

Rome, Dec 3 (IANS/AKI) More than four million Italians, or about seven percent of Italy’s population, live abroad in search of a work, according to a new report presented Thursday in Rome by the Catholic refugee and immigrant charity Migrantes. About half the expatriates are women.

Italian immigration conjures images of ships transporting millions … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lack of opportunity prompts four million Italians to live abroad.

Colombia elects woman attorney general

Bogota, Dec 3 (IANS/EFE) Colombia’s Supreme Court has elected Viviane Morales as the country’s new attorney general, ending 16 months of uncertainty stemming from feuds between the previous government and the judiciary, the media said.

Colombia’s first woman attorney general was elected late Wednesday, with Morales receiving 14 of 18 votes from participating justices.
An … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Colombia elects woman attorney general.

Jerry Hobbs’ to Sue Lake County Police for ‘a lot of money’

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com) — Jerry Hobbs, jailed for none less than five years for allegedly killing his daughter claimed that he will file a lawsuit against the Lake County for framing him guilty. He was released after DNA sample of another person was found in the crime scene. He wants ‘a lot of money’ compensation from …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Street View Lawsuit Costs Google $1

Google Inc. is supposed to pay $1 duo to invasion of privacy of a Pennsylvania couple who took the company to court. They claim that Google’s Street View caused damage to their privacy.
Street View happens to be a feature that allows users to pick a point on a map and watch a panoramic street-level …. Original article  : Street View Lawsuit Costs Google $1.

24 Lawsuits over IPOs Revived

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com) — A federal appeals court reportedly revived 24 lawsuits against a group of bank underwriters accused of conflicts of interest in initial public offerings.
According to Reuters, the lawsuits stated that the investment banks, including JPMorgan Chase & Co and Morgan Stanley, engaged in prohibited “short-swing” transactions related to initial public offerings … Read more »».

Permanent Injunction on ‘Shariah Law Amendment’ Granted By Oklahama Judge

OKLAHAMA (GaeaTimes.com) — Ballot Question 755 — aka the “Shariah law amendment” has been put to a hault by a federal judge from Oklahama.
For those of who are in the dark about the Shariah law, this law forbids state courts from implementing international laws, including Islamic Shariah law. The injunction posed will provide the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Permanent Injunction on ‘Shariah Law Amendment’ Granted By Oklahama Judge.

March on farmers’ rights reaches Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH – A nationwide march aimed at drawing attention towards the need to protect the interests of farmers reached Chandigarh Thursday evening, an NGO activist said.

The march, Kisan Swaraj Yatra (KSY), started from the Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram in Gujarat Oct 2 and it would culminate at Rajghat, Delhi, Dec 11 after passing through 20 … Read : March on farmers’ rights reaches Chandigarh.

‘Media should be trained, sensitised in HIV reporting’

NEW DELHI – A story in the media can act as a powerful communicator of an important message, while a misrepresentation can cause irreversible damage. For reporting on the sensitive and important issue of HIV, the media should be trained and sensitised, experts said at conference here Thursday.

The conference which saw the participation of … Read more : ‘Media should be trained, sensitised in HIV reporting’.

Gujarat High Court a corrupt judges’ dump, allege advocates

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Advocates Association (GHAA) has given a bandh call for Tuesday to protest what it called ill-treatment of the high court by the Supreme Court, and claimed the state high court has become a “dumping ground” for corrupt judges.

“We welcome every judge to our high court with open arms. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gujarat High Court a corrupt judges’ dump, allege advocates.

Pakistani hotel introduces braille menu for blind

ISLAMABAD – A hotel in Islamabad has introduced a menu in braille for its visually impaired guests on World Disability Day.

Serena Hotel Islamabad has become the first hotel in Pakistan to have menus in braille, Daily Times reported Saturday.
The hotel’s general manager Peter Hill said: “People with disability are denied basic …. Read the original article  : here.

Law Amended On Player’s Behalf

The International Rugby Board Council approved Law 10.4(j), Law 10.4(f) and Law 5.2 today to ensure the fact that the welfare of players always comes first. These laws are supposed to be governing the spear tackle and hand-off will operate across the Game and provide greater clarity on the definition of each action and …. Read the original article  : here.

Natalee Holloway Missing Case Lingers On

ARUBA (GaeaTimes.com) — Reportedly the jawbone that was found on a beach in Aruba this month is human, but according to the prosecutors it doesn’t belong to long-missing Alabama teenager Natalee Holloway.
Those of you unaware of the case must know, Holloway was on an outing with about 100 classmates in celebration of their graduation … Read more : Natalee Holloway Missing Case Lingers On.

Actor Wesley Snipes Sentenced Three Years Imprisonment

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Actor Wesley Snipes has been asked to report to the Pennsylvania prison on December 9. According to the Justice department he will begin serving a three-year prison sentence December 9 for failing to file income tax returns.
For those of who don’t know the actor let me tell you he is best … Read more »».

Oregon Boy Kyron Horman Missing For 6 Months: New Plea Issued

OREGON (GaeaTimes.com) — The 8-year-old boy was last seen June 4. His biological parents have issued a new appeal to help bring back home.
Terri Horman, claimed to have dropped Kyron Horman off at school that morning. In divorce filing the boys father stated that he believes Terri Horman “is involved” in the boy’s disappearance. Already …. Original article  : Oregon Boy Kyron Horman Missing For 6 Months: New Plea Issued.

Narendra Modi given clean chit in Godhra riot case

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court (SC) appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) is reported to have given a clean chit to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.

Narendra Modi has long been alleged to connive with 62 others including some cabinet colleagues, police officials and bureaucrats in aiding and abetting the post-Godhra program that claimed 1000 lives …. Original article  : Narendra Modi given clean chit in Godhra riot case.

Chinese dissident’s Nobel prize money to be reserved

STOCKHOLM – Jailed Chinese Nobel Peace Prize winner Liu Xiaobo’s prize money will be set aside in his name, the head of the Nobel Foundation announced Friday, a week before the formal Nobel award ceremony.

Liu is serving an 11-year sentence for subversion and is not allowed to leave China to attend the award ceremony … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chinese dissident’s Nobel prize money to be reserved.

Hundreds of disabled march for rights in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Hundreds of differently-abled people from across the country participated in a protest march near India Gate in Delhi Friday on the occasion of World Disability Day and demanded fulfilment of their rights.

Javed Abidi, chairperson of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment of Disabled People (NCPEDP) who organised the protest, said: …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hundreds of disabled march for rights in Delhi.

Former Teesta Setalvad aide earns court ire for false evidence

GANDHINAGAR – A special fast track court Friday not only rejected the plea of Rais Khan, one time aide of social activist Teesta Setalvad, to become witness in the 2002 Naroda Gam massacre case of Ahmedabad but ordered proceedings against him for falsification of evidence.

Additional sessions judge S.H. Vora while rejecting the plea …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former Teesta Setalvad aide earns court ire for false evidence.

Indian firm seeks $48,000 from Nepal for aborted passport deal

KATHMANDU – India’s state-owned currency printing firm, the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India, has asked the Nepalese government to reimburse the $48,000 the company incurred after Kathmandu signed a major passport contract with it but then cancelled it unilaterally because of political pressure.

The New Delhi-based company is seeking from Nepal’s cash-strapped caretaker … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian firm seeks $48,000 from Nepal for aborted passport deal.

Indian firm seeks $48,000 for aborted Nepal passport deal

KATHMANDU – India’s state-owned currency printing firm, Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India, has asked Nepal to reimburse the $48,000 the New Delhi-headquartered company incurred after the Nepalese government signed a major passport contract with it but then cancelled it unilaterally due to political pressure.

The Indian company is seeking from Nepal’s cash-strapped caretaker …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJP wants government to ratify UN convention against graft

NEW DELHI – Accusing the government of delaying the ratification of the UN Convention against Corruption, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday demanded that steps should be taken to bring back the country’s money illegally parked in banks abroad.

BJP vice-president Shanta Kumar told reporters that India was among 22 of the 148 countries … Read : BJP wants government to ratify UN convention against graft.

Australia to help US bring Assange to justice

SYDNEY – Australia will help the US bring WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to justice, Attorney General Robert McClelland said Saturday.

Assange, an Australian citizen, is wanted by Swedish authorities on rape charges and has been threatened with prosecution by Washington over the posting of over 250,000 US diplomatic memos on the WikiLeaks whistleblower website.
“I’m …. Source article  : Australia to help US bring Assange to justice.

Supreme Court serves notice to CVC Thomas

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to PJ Thomas, on a plea seeking his removal as Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC).

The apex court also issues notice to the government on the CVC issue. The apex court will now pronounce its final verdict on January 27, 2011.

A bench comprising Chief Justice … Read : Supreme Court serves notice to CVC Thomas.

Homosexuals more likely to be punished

WASHINGTON – Lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) adolescents are about 40 percent more likely than other teens to be punished by school authorities, police and the courts.

The study by Yale University researchers is the first to document excessive punishment of LGB youth nationwide.
“We found that virtually all types of punishment – school …. Original source  : Homosexuals more likely to be punished.

Lahore HC stays Blasphemy Law amendment until judicial ruling on Aasia case

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court has ordered a stay against making any amendments in Pakistan’s Blasphemy Law until the judicial ruling on Aasia Bibi, the Christian woman sentenced to death on blasphemy charges, is finally out.

The court ruled on a petition filed by a citizen that no amendment be made in the Blasphemy Law …. Source  : Lahore HC stays Blasphemy Law amendment until judicial ruling on Aasia case.

Supreme Court to hear plea against CVC Thomas’s appointment

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will hear today two Public Interest Litigations challenging the appointment of P J Thomas as Central Vigilance Commissioner.

The petitions will hear by a bench comprising Chief Justice S H Kapadia and Justices K S Radhakrishnan and Swatanter Kumar.

The two PILs-one filed by an NGO Centre for Public … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court to hear plea against CVC Thomas’s appointment.

Adarsh Society to file reply in Bombay High Court

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court on Monday will hear a plea against the controversial Adarsh Housing Society on the environment violation.

Adarsh Society has to reply to the Environment Ministry’s show cause notice for “unambiguously” violating Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) laws.

Adarsh Society wanted four weeks to reply but the ministry gave only seven days more … Original article on : Adarsh Society to file reply in Bombay High Court.

Notice to government, CVC Thomas on appointment

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notice to the central government and P.J. Thomas on a petition challenging his appointment as the Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC).

Thomas’ appointment as CVC has been challenged in a public suit.
The court will hear the matter Jan 27, 2011.
The opposition has been demanding Thomas’ … Original source on Gaea Times at : Notice to government, CVC Thomas on appointment.

Supreme Court issues notice to CVC Thomas

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notice to Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) P.J. Thomas as to why his appointment should not be quashed.

The court will hear the matter Jan 27, 2011.
The opposition has been demanding Thomas’ resignation since he has been chargsheeted in a palm oil import scam when he was …. Source  : Supreme Court issues notice to CVC Thomas.

Accusations against Assange political stunt: Lawyer

LONDON – The founder of whistleblower website WikiLeaks will fight charges of sexual offences, with his lawyer saying Sunday that the accusations are a “political stunt” being orchestrated by officials in Sweden, possibly at the behest of Washington.

“It doesn’t escape my attention that Sweden was one of those lickspittle states which used its resources …. Read the original article  : Accusations against Assange political stunt: Lawyer.

Jharkhand panchayat polls: 47,000 in fray in second phase

RANCHI – Over 47,000 candidates are in the fray for Monday’s second phase of panchayat polls in Jharkhand, amid a boycott call by the Maoists, an official said.

“All the necessary security arrangements have been made for the polls,” S.D. Dharma, Jharkhand election commissioner, told reporters here Sunday.
In the second phase, voting will take …. Source  : Jharkhand panchayat polls: 47,000 in fray in second phase.

Hong Kong protesters demand China release Nobel laureate

HONG KONG – Hundreds of protesters marched to Beijing’s de facto embassy in Hong Kong Sunday calling for the release of jailed dissident and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo.

The group also called on China to free the laureate’s wife Liu Xia who has been under house arrest since the award was announced in …. Read the original article  : Hong Kong protesters demand China release Nobel laureate.

Australian PM fails to name law WikiLeaks has broken

SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has failed to name any Australian laws broken by the controversial WikiLeaks website or its founder Julian Assange, a media report said Tuesday.

Western governments are increasingly calling for Assange to be stopped as WikiLeaks continues to publish more than 250,000 confidential US diplomatic documents, the Sydney Morning …. Read the original article  : Australian PM fails to name law WikiLeaks has broken.

Rights group calls for end to caning in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – Amnesty International has called on the Malaysian government to end judicial caning, saying it was a form of torture and left thousands permanently scarred every year.

The London-based group’s report was based on interviews with 57 caning victims and released in Kuala Lumpur Monday.
“Amnesty International estimates that as many as … Read more : Rights group calls for end to caning in Malaysia.

‘Merry Christmas’ banned at Philippine airport

MANILA – Immigration officers at the Philippines’ main international airport were prohibited Tuesday from wishing passengers a Merry Christmas.

The directive was issued to avoid the impression that the officers were soliciting Christmas gifts and tips from passengers, said Ronaldo Ledesma, officer in charge at the Bureau of Immigration.
Ledesma said immigration officers at Manila’s …. Read the original article  : here.

Registered Sex Offender Arrested On Suspicion Of Sexual Assault

FREMONT (GaeaTimes.com) Reportedly, a registered sex offender has been retained. The police suspect that he may have sexually assaulted a 2-year-old girl in a Union City retail store.
Eugene Ramos is 36 years old. He has been charged on Friday with committing a forcible lewd act with a child younger than 14, assault with … Read more >>.

LHC CJ admits petition against amendment to blasphemy law

LAHORE (GaeaTimes.com) The Lahore High Court Chief Justice Khawaja Muhammad Sharif on Monday has admitted on having regular hearing a petition that actually called for restraining the government from moving a bill in the National Assembly for amendment of the blasphemy laws. Reportedly, the court has issued a notice to the federal government dated [..] Read the original article: here.

Walmart Faces Largest Class-action Employment Lawsuit in U.S. history

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — The mega-retailer Wal-Mart Stores Inc. are facing a long-standing dispute over alleged gender bias in pay and promotions.
Reportedly, a verdict against the company could result in billions of dollars in damages. Now, the question that remains is whether 1.6 million current and former Wal-Mart employees can band together in their claims … Read : Walmart Faces Largest Class-action Employment Lawsuit in U.S. history.

Lahore HC prevents Blasphemy Law amendment until judicial ruling on Aasia case (Amended)

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) prevented any amendment in Pakistan’s Blasphemy Law until the judicial ruling on Aasia Bibi, the Christian woman sentenced to death on blasphemy charges, is finally out.

The court ruled on a petition filed by a citizen that no amendment be made in the Blasphemy Law until the court delivers … Read more >>>.

Apex court questions Orissa on mining licence to POSCO

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notices to the central and the Orissa governments on a petition challenging the Orissa High Court order that set aside the state government’s grant of ore mining licence to South Korean steel major POSCO.

The Posco was granted mining licence in the Khandadhar area of Orissa’s Sundergarh … Read more >>.

Supreme Court wants states to act on police reforms

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday said that it would see to it that its judgment on police reforms was implemented in its entirety and it was not left in limbo. We don’t want our judgment to lie in the courtroom,” the court said.

There should be uniformity in the implementation of its direction … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court wants states to act on police reforms.

Arrest all involved in Haj scam: Pakistani apex court

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Supreme Court Monday expressed displeasure over alleged corruption in arrangements for Haj pilgrims and directed the authorities to arrest all accused involved in the scam.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhary, in his remarks, said thousands of Haj pilgrims have suffered because of the maladministration by concerned officials.
“Even the …. Read the original article  : Arrest all involved in Haj scam: Pakistani apex court.

CBI competent to handle alleged 2G scam, no comment: Sibal

NEW DELHI – Communications Minister Kapil Sibal Wednesday declined comment on the raids by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on the premises of his predecessor A. Raja and associates over the 2G spectrum allocation saying the matter was sub judice.

“CBI is an independent, competent investigating agency. What it does, it does on its … Read more >>.

Indian women balancing divine feminine with modernity

NEW DELHI – The emerging voice of women in India is one of strength, economic sustainability, positive energy, achievement and erudition – that strikes a fine balance between modernism and tradition.

According to a cross-section of power women in the capital, what sets the contemporary Indian woman apart from the rest of her gender …. Original source  : Indian women balancing divine feminine with modernity.

New Canadian act targets ‘Ghost’ immigration agents

TORONTO – “Ghost” immigration consultants in India, who dupe people desperate to migrate to Canada, will be put out of business with the passing of new legislation by the Canadian parliament.

Canadian Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said the legislation to crack down on crooked immigration consultants has received final approval Tuesday in the House of …. Read the original article  : New Canadian act targets ‘Ghost’ immigration agents.

Australian says China stopped trip to Nobel ceremony

SYDNEY – Zhang Heci, an Australian citizen, complained Wednesday that Chinese authorities detained him at Shanghai airport while he was on his way to Oslo to attend the award ceremony of the Nobel Peace Prize to jailed Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo.

Zhang said he was detained for 24 hours on his arrival in Shanghai and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Australian says China stopped trip to Nobel ceremony.

Wilson Couple Held Without Bond For Killing Two-Year-Old Daughter

WILSON (GaeaTimes.com) — The police said that they received two 911 calls on November 29th and immediately reached the spot. They were reported that the child happened to be suspiciously unresponsive. But, on reaching the situation they found the child to be dead.
Though, the child was later officially pronounced dead at Wilson Medical Center, it …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wilson Couple Held Without Bond For Killing Two-Year-Old Daughter.

Law Firms May Be the Nex Target of Fake Check Scams

NORTH CAROLINA (GaeaTimes.com) — The North Carolina Attorney General’s Office warned the various law firms of fake check scammers.
According to the Attorney General Roy Cooper, law firms in Gastonia, N.C. and Oxford, N.C. reportedly has received counterfeit checks recently amounting to $85,000 and $295,000 from scammers who asked them to wire the money to …. Read the original article  : Law Firms May Be the Nex Target of Fake Check Scams.

WikiLeaks defiant as Assange held in British custody (Roundup)

LONDON – The international furore over the latest batch of WikiLeaks publications threatened to intensify Tuesday as WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was in custody in Britain on unrelated sex assault claims.

While US and British politicians have led the international condemnation of recent releases of top secret US cables by WikiLeaks, suggesting the organisation’s activities … Read more : WikiLeaks defiant as Assange held in British custody (Roundup).

Apex court asks lawyers not to refuse cases

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has held that Bar Associations could not pass a resolution directing their members not to take up the cases of the accused it is aggrieved with. The court said that such a step would be against the constitution.

“We declare that all such resolutions of Bar Associations in India …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Apex court asks lawyers not to refuse cases.

No sale of gutka, pan masala in pouches from March 2011

NEW DELHI – In a major setback for manufacturers of gutka (chewing tobacco) and pan masala, the Supreme Court Tuesday imposed a ban, from March 2011, on these products’ sale in plastic sachets.

Asking the manufacturers to explore and decide by March, 2011 on the alternative material for packaging them, an apex court bench of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No sale of gutka, pan masala in pouches from March 2011.

Women achievers felicitated in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Krishna Poonia, India’s first woman to win a gold medal at Commonwealth Games, scientist Charusita Chakravarty and Sudha Rani Pandey, the first woman vice-chancellor of the Uttarakhand Sanskrit University, were honoured with the Stree Shakti awards here Tuesday.

The function was held at the residence of union Tourism and Urban Poverty Alleviation … Original source on Gaea Times at : Women achievers felicitated in Delhi.

President clears court probe against Prasar Bharti chief

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil has given her assent for a Supreme Court inquiry into charges of financial mismanagement against Prasar Bharti Chief Executive Officer (CEO) B.S. Lalli, official sources said Thursday.

Sources said Patils assent came on a reference made by the government. It would set in motion the process for removal …. Source  : President clears court probe against Prasar Bharti chief.

A lakh homeless spend winter on Delhi’s streets (Dec 10 is World Human Rights Day)

NEW DELHI – For those of us who take the warmth of our homes and their heating devices for granted, here’s a chilling statistic – Delhi has over 100,000 homeless people, most of whom are left to fend for themselves in the open during the cruel winter season.

“Delhi winter is cruel, its chill reaches … Read more »».

Helping women in distress fight back

NEW DELHI – Women from varied backgrounds shared stories of their trials and triumphs at a cultural programme organised here to celebrate two decades of the Centre for Social Research (CSR) – an NGO for women in distress.

The programme ‘Expressions-creating female spaces’ was organised Wednesday to honour the accomplishment of the community women by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Helping women in distress fight back.

Malaysian Hindu activists sue government

KUALA LUMPUR – Two Malaysian Hindu activists who were held under a security law for 17 months sued the government Thursday for 200 million ringgit (about $62 million), claiming their detention was illegal.

M Manoharan and P Uthayakumar were detained in December 2007 after they organised a rally of more than 5,000 people in Kuala [..] Read the original article: here.

Bombardier ordered to pay Pakistani-origin pilot for discrimination

TORONTO – Global metro and corporate aviation giant Bombardier has been ordered to pay $319,000 to a Pakistani-origin man for denying him pilot training because he was listed as a “threat to aviation or national security” by US authorities.

In its ruling, the provincial Quebec Human Rights Tribunal have found that Pakistani-origin Javed Latif was … Read : Bombardier ordered to pay Pakistani-origin pilot for discrimination.

Padma Shri for Air India Kanishka inquiry judge demanded

LOS ANGELES – The Indian Oversees Congress in the US has urged the Indian government to confer Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honour, on Air India Kanishka inquiry head who has made far-reaching recommendations in his report.

Former Canadian chief justice John Major, who headed the public inquiry into the lapses that led to … Read more >>.

Government told to hear TV channel out on ‘Bigg Boss’ row

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Wednesday directed the union information and broadcasting ministry to serve a fresh show cause notice to Colors TV channel and give it a hearing over the content and timings of its reality show “Bigg Boss”.

The direction came during the hearing on the ministrys order last month to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Government told to hear TV channel out on ‘Bigg Boss’ row.

Apex court reserves verdict on monitoring spectrum probe (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday reserved its verdict on a petition seeking its monitoring of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the 2G spectrum controversy.

The petition was moved by the Centre for Public Interest Litigation (CPIL).
The court also expanded the scope of CBI investigation into the 2G spectrum … Original source on Gaea Times at : Apex court reserves verdict on monitoring spectrum probe (Second Lead).

Serbia, others criticized for Nobel ceremony boycott

BELGRADE/BRUSSELS/BERLIN – Serbia’s decision to join 18 other countries in boycotting the Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony drew sharp criticism from the European Union (EU) Wednesday.

Belgrade would not be represented at the event in Oslo Friday to honour the 2010 laureate, jailed Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo, Foreign Minister Vuk Jeremic said Wednesday.
“We give …. Source article  : Serbia, others criticized for Nobel ceremony boycott.

NHRC chief denies dereliction of duty in Raja phone call case

NEW DELHI – National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chairperson and former Chief Justice of India, Mr. Justice K.G. Balakrishnan, on Wednesday said he had not received any letter or communication from Madras High Court Justice R. Reghupathi in connection with an allegation that former Telecom … Original article on : NHRC chief denies dereliction of duty in Raja phone call case.

Need to look into Radia tapes leak: Government to apex court

NEW DELHI – The central government Friday told the Supreme Court that it was taking every step to ensure that there was no leakage of the telephone tapes of corporate lobbyist Nira Radia in the 2G spectrum scam and that the leaks to the media needed to be looked into.

The government said this in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Need to look into Radia tapes leak: Government to apex court.

Himachal farmers load guns for ‘Operation Monkey’

SHIMLA – The man-animal conflict has turned ugly in Himachal Pradesh. Farmers in several villages have set aside their farm implements and loaded their guns — to shoot down monkeys from Friday as the simians have been destroying their crops and fruits.

Under ‘Operation Monkey’, hundreds of farmers have procured permits from the state …. Source  : Himachal farmers load guns for ‘Operation Monkey’.

Pak spy agencies admit having Adiala Jail’s “missing prisoners” in their custody

ISLAMABAD – The mystery of eleven missing prisoners of Adiala Jail has finally been solved, as Pakistan’s top intelligence agencies have confessed before the Supreme Court that the terror accused are in their custody, and are being tried under the Army Act.

During the course of the court proceedings, Raja Muhammad Irshad, counsel for the federation, …. Original article  : Pak spy agencies admit having Adiala Jail’s “missing prisoners” in their custody.

SC refuses to strike off Allahabad HC “something is rotten” remark

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday refused to strike off the stinging remarks it made against the Allahabad High Court.

The judge said that it is not a time to react but to introspect and not all judges are bad, there are good judges also.

The Allahabad High Court had filed an application … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : SC refuses to strike off Allahabad HC “something is rotten” remark.

Apex court refuses to expunge ‘rotten’ remark

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday refused to expunge the remarks that something was “rotten” with the Allahabad High Court while hearing a petition of the lower court.

An apex court bench headed by Justice Marakandey Katju said that they will issue a clarification in respect of their Nov 26 judgement wherein the controversial … Read more >>.

Indian NGO awarded Asia Human Rights Award

TAIPEI – The Rescue Foundation, an Indian NGO that frees teenage girls from forced prostitution, was Friday presented with the 2010 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award.

Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou awarded the prize to the group’s president, Triveni Balkrishna Acharya.
The Mumbai-based group frees about 300 girls each year who were trafficked and sold …. Source article  : Indian NGO awarded Asia Human Rights Award.

Iranian footballers arrested over partying

TEHRAN – Several Iranian football players and coaches have been arrested for having attended a party, Tehran press reported.

No names were mentioned by the papers but there are speculation that some of the arrested footballers were national team players and all of them play in the country’s premier league.
The players and coaches were …. Source article  : Iranian footballers arrested over partying.

Bexar County Jail LawSuit Settles at $5.5 Million

BEXAR (GaeaTimes.com) — According to sources a $5.5 million settlement has been finally reached at in the class action lawsuit against Bexar County Jail over illegal strip searches.
The case was filed in 2005. Reportedly, the suit claimed that the county’s policy “to force those charged with minor crimes to undergo the indignities of a …. Read the original article  : here.

Volkswagen, Audi Owners Bag $69 Million Settlement of Design-Defect Suit

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — US magistrate judge in Newark has approved a $69 million settlement, this week, ending the claims brought by owners of Volkswagens and Audis whose interiors leaked during rainstorms.
Reportedly, the terms of the settlement will deliver $10,000 in compensation for each of the nine class representatives, $9.2 million in fees, and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Volkswagen, Audi Owners Bag $69 Million Settlement of Design-Defect Suit.

Semtech Securities Class Action Settlement Worth $20 Million

Semtech Corp. is known for manufacturing analog and mixed-signal chips. According to the company, it has agreed in principle to pay $20 million to settle a class action securities lawsuit concerning the company’s stock option accounting practices. The news has been officiated on Wednesday.
Reportedly, the agreement is preliminary and is awaiting a negotiation and …. Original article  : Semtech Securities Class Action Settlement Worth $20 Million.

Women in Goa fire services department soon

PANAJI – Women will rub shoulders with men in fire fighting operations in Goa from the next financial year, an official said here Saturday.

Learning fire fighting protocol and training in fighting fire related emergencies may also be made mandatory for workers employed in industrial areas in Goa.
Speaking to reporters in …. Original source  : Women in Goa fire services department soon.

Czechs to end tests of gay asylum seekers

PRAGUE – The Czech Republic will no longer require gay asylum seekers to undergo arousal tests to prove that they are homosexual after facing criticism that the procedure is humiliating, an official has said.

The testing method – known as phallometry – was invented in the 1950s by a Prague-based sexologist. It is widely used …. Original source  : Czechs to end tests of gay asylum seekers.

Izard Nobel LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Mela Sciences Inc.

WEST HARTFORD (GaeaTimes.com) — The law firm of Izard Nobel LLP, has filed a lawsuit seeking class action status in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of purchasers of the securities of Mela Sciences, Inc. (” MELA | PowerRating” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: MELA) between February …. Read the original article  : Izard Nobel LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Mela Sciences Inc..

Facebook Promotes Class Action Lawsuit For Canadian Law Firm

TORONTO (GaeaTimes.com) — A Canadian law firm thought it wise to reach out for Facebook to promote their cause. They are promoting a Lawsuit against an international pharmaceutical giant.
Reportedly, Siskinds LLP in London, Ont. is marching on with the lawsuit against the pharma division of Germany’s Bayer AG over safety concerns with their Yasmin [..] Read the original article: here.

Nobel ceremony honours jailed Chinese activist Liu Xiaobo (Roundup)

OSLO – An empty chair served as a stark reminder of the absence of Nobel Peace Prize laureate, jailed Chinese political activist Liu Xiaobo, at Friday’s ceremony at Oslo City Hall.

Liu’s optimism about political change in China and calls for reconcilation were strong themes in the award ceremony boycotted by China.
The ceremony included …. Read the original article  : here.

Radia tapes leak being examined, apex court told

NEW DELHI – The government Friday told the Supreme Court that it was taking every step to ensure that there were no leaks of the telephone conversations of corporate lobbyist Nira Radia in the 2G spectrum scam and that the leaks to the media were being examined.

The government’s assurance came in response to Tata …. Original source  : Radia tapes leak being examined, apex court told.

India contributes $260,000 for slave trade victims’ memorial

UNITED NATIONS – India has contributed $ 260,000 to the United Nations Trust Fund for the construction of a Permanent Memorial dedicated to the millions of victims of the transatlantic slave trade.

“India’s contribution is reflective of our firm belief that the international community must pay homage to the victims of slavery and the transatlantic …. Original article  : India contributes $260,000 for slave trade victims’ memorial.

Writers appeal for freedom of Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo

NEW DELHI – The pitch for the release of Chinese Nobel Peace laureate Liu Xiaobo has gathered fresh momentum with more than 500 high-profile literary signatories from around the world joining ranks with the Internationales Literaturfestival-Berlin.

The litterateurs who have joined the crusade against Xiaobo’s detention include the likes of John Ashbery, Wolf Biermann, Breyten …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Writers appeal for freedom of Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo.

Apex court won’t expunge barb against Allahabad High Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday refused to expunge its “something is rotten” barb about the Allahabad High Court, holding that everybody knew which judge of the court was corrupt.

“Rustics are no longer rustics. Don’t think people are fools,” Justice Markandey Katju said no sooner had senior counsel P.P Rao risen to argue …. Original article  : Apex court won’t expunge barb against Allahabad High Court.

China blocks broadcast of Nobel award ceremony

BEIJING – Live broadcasts of the Nobel Prize award ceremony – which would have included presentation of an award to jailed Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo – was blocked Friday in China.

The blackout extended to foreign broadcasters such as CNN and BBC. An internet feed from Oslo on the Nobel Foundation’s website was also blocked.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : China blocks broadcast of Nobel award ceremony.

Big B, John in Madhya Pradesh to save tigers

BHOPAL – Bollyood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has taken time out of his busy schedule to visit Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh to participate in the Save Our Tigers campaign. He feels the cause is more important than his films.

“The tiger’s cause is more important than my films. Kids should start tiger clubs and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Big B, John in Madhya Pradesh to save tigers.

NGO to rescue of Punjabi youth stranded in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia

JALANDHAR – They had gone to foreign shores, hoping to turn around their fortunes. But their dreams soon turned sour as the 50 youths from Punjab were forced to live in miserable conditions and do shoddy jobs in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

A Punjab-based NGO, Lok Bhalai Party (LBP), working for the rights of Indians …. Source article  : NGO to rescue of Punjabi youth stranded in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia.

Protesters demand Assange’s release from jail

SAO PAULO – Scores of demonstrators rallied Saturday outside the gates of the British consulate in Sao Paulo to demand the release from prison of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange.

Brazilian media said the demonstration was organized online, using social networks like Facebook and Twitter and several blogs that have emerged in Brazil to protest Assange’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Radia tapes: Rights group to oppose Tata’s plea against publication

NEW DELHI – The Centre for Public Interest Litigation (CPIL), which is seeking the apex court’s monitoring of the 2G spectrum probe, Saturday said that it will oppose Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata’s plea seeking to restrain media from publishing transcripts of corporate lobbyist Nira Radia’s tapped conversations.

Senior counsel Prashant Bhushan said that CPIL … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Radia tapes: Rights group to oppose Tata’s plea against publication.

Tourists banned in core areas of Madhya Pradesh tiger reserves

BHOPAL – The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) said that there shall be no tourism within the core area of tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh, according to documents filed in the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

The NTCA direction has been spelt out in an an affidavit filed before a Madhya Pradesh High Court bench …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Investigation into Radia tapes not complete yet’

NEW DELHI – A probe into the taped conversations of corporate lobbyist Nira Radia triggered by complaints of her alleged links with foreign intelligence outfits and amassing of Rs.300 crore in nine years is not over yet, the apex court has been told.

In an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court, an additional director of …. Original source  : ‘Investigation into Radia tapes not complete yet’.

Centre didn’t prevent NREGA fund diversion: Apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday pulled up the central government for doing nothing to prevent the diversion by the states of funds allocated under National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA).

“This is a very serious issue,” said an apex court bench headed by Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia while hearing a public suit by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Centre didn’t prevent NREGA fund diversion: Apex court.

Now, Wikileaks suffering its own ‘financial’ leaks

LONDON – Whistle blowing web site Wikileaks is now facing questions over its finances, as lawyers for its alleged main source, Private Bradley Manning, said they had not seen a penny of tens of thousands of dollars raised by the site to help pay for his defence and promised to them three months ago.

According to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Now, Wikileaks suffering its own ‘financial’ leaks.

Supreme Court clears MCI’s common medical entrance test

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday permitted the Medical Council of India (MCI) to conduct a common test for undergraduate medical courses even as it decides on pending cases against the council.

An apex court bench headed by Justice R.V. Ravindran said the central government did not need the court’s approval for framing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court clears MCI’s common medical entrance test.

Mayawati flays ‘anti-Dalit’ temple ritual in Karnataka

LUCKNOW – Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati has slammed an age-old temple ritual in Karnataka where people, the majority of them Dalits, roll over plantain leaves with leftovers of meals eaten by Brahmins, believing this will cure them of skin ailments.

Called the ‘urulu seve’ (roll over ritual), the … Read more : Mayawati flays ‘anti-Dalit’ temple ritual in Karnataka.

Aligarh to impose ’steep’ fine on rickshaw users

LUCKNOW – Residents of Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh district who remain seated on a cycle-rickshaw while going up a steep incline will now be fined Rs.500, an official said Tuesday.

I have issued the circular on humanitarian grounds. I think its inhumane to force the rickshaw-puller to cycle up an ascent with commuters sitting in …. Original article  : Aligarh to impose ’steep’ fine on rickshaw users.

Ayodhya verdict: Sunni Waqf Board files appeal before Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Sunni Central Waqf Board on Tuesday filed a petition before the Supreme Court, challenging a Allahabad High Court judgment in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suits.

Advocate Zafaryab Jilani, who is appearing for the board, said the petition …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US bride-to-be suing runaway groom for 100K dlrs

MELBOURNE – A US bride-to-be has filed a 100,000-dollar lawsuit against her ex-fiance who dumped her four days before their wedding.

Dominique A. Buttitta and Vito V. Salerno were supposed to get married in the spring after being together for three years, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US bride-to-be suing runaway groom for 100K dlrs.

Deshmukh invites Supreme Court censure

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday pulled up former Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh for interfering in the enforcement of a law to regulate private money lending in the state.

Deshmukh is currently union minister for heavy industries.
“The chief minister has no business to interfere in the functioning of the 1946 Act to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sohrabuddin case: CBI plea against Amit Shah bail in Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will on Tuesday take up the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) plea to cancel the bail of former Gujarat Home Minister Amit Shah in connection with the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case.

In its status report, the CBI had indicted Shah and the Gujarat police.

The CBI also said that with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sunni Waqf Board to move Supreme Court against Ayodhya verdict

NEW DELHI – The Sunni Central Waqf Board is expected to file a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the Supreme Court on Tuesday, challenging the Allahabad High Court verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suits.

Advocate Zafaryab Jilani, who appeared for the Board in the High Court, confirmed that they were moving the Supreme … Original article on : Sunni Waqf Board to move Supreme Court against Ayodhya verdict.

Supreme Court rebukes Vilasrao Deshmukh

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday pulled up former Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh for interfering in the enforcement of law to regulate private money lending in the state.

“The chief minister has no business to interfere with the functioning of the 1946 act regulating money lending in the state,” the apex court bench … Read : Supreme Court rebukes Vilasrao Deshmukh.

835 await execution in Iraqi prisons

Baghdad, Dec 14 (IANS/AKI) More than 800 people in Iraq are on death row awaiting execution, said Iraqi Interior Minister Jawad al-Bolani.

Speaking at a press conference on anti-terrorism measures Monday, Bolani said Iraqi courts have sentenced 14,500 people accused of terror crimes. Those who aren’t sentenced to die have been given life sentences, he … Read more »».

Berman DeValerio Has Announced Securities Class Action Against RINO International Corporation

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com) — The law firm named Berman DeValerio has allegedly filed a securities fraud lawsuit today on behalf of investors who purchased or otherwise acquired the common stock of RINO International Corporation (”RINO” or the “Company”) from July 13, 2009 to …. Original article  : Berman DeValerio Has Announced Securities Class Action Against RINO International Corporation.

Judge finds Obama healthcare plan unconstitutional

WASHINGTON – A federal judge Monday tossed out a key provision of President Barack Obama’s health care plan that requires people to have insurance.

Judge Henry Hudson of the US District Court in Richmond, Virgina, found the mandate for all citizens to carry health insurance violated the US Constitution’s limits on Congress’ ability to regulate … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Judge finds Obama healthcare plan unconstitutional.

Supreme Court stays counsel’s suspension

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday stayed the Madras High Court order suspending senior counsel R.K. Chandramohan from the membership of the Tamil Nadu Bar Council and as its chairman.

The apex court bench headed by D.K. Jain stayed the order on the mentioning of the petition by senior counsel Mukul Rohtagi.
Chandramohan allegedly …. Source  : Supreme Court stays counsel’s suspension.

Don’t remove night shelters, apex court tells states

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday asked state governments not to remove any night shelters for the homeless till the biting cold abates.

The court said that the night shelters should be retained till the end of February.
The apex court bench of Justices Dalveer Bhandari and Deepak Verma said the state governments …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US Air Force internal computers block WikiLeaks websites

WASHINGTON – US Air Force personnel who try to view leaked WikiLeaks diplomatic cables or stories about them are finding the websites blocked by management, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Citing people familiar with the matter, the Journal reported late Tuesday that
Air Force users who try to view the websites of the New …. Read the original article  : US Air Force internal computers block WikiLeaks websites.

Raja phone call case: ‘It is a judicial matter’, says Moily

BANGALORE – Union Law and Justice Minister M. Veerappa Moily commenting on the fresh controversy that former Telecom Minister A Raja had tried to influence a Madras High Court judge in a criminal case on Tuesday said it is a judicial … Read : Raja phone call case: ‘It is a judicial matter’, says Moily.

Julian Assange freed on bail in Britain

LONDON – WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was Tuesday freed on bail by a court in London after a week in custody pending extradition proceedings to Sweden, a judge ruled.

A number of human rights campaigners and celebrities put up a cash sum of 200,000 pounds ($315,000) to secure bail for the 39-year-old Australian.
Assange was …. Source  : Julian Assange freed on bail in Britain.

Court paves way for Rajasthan Royals to bid in IPL auction

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Tuesday upheld a stay order on the termination of Rajasthan Royals contract by the Board of Cricket Control of India, granted by an independent arbitrator, and dismissed the cricket governing bodys appeal against it.

The ruling by Justice S.J. Vazifdar now paves the way for Rajasthan Royals to take …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Court paves way for Rajasthan Royals to bid in IPL auction.

15 percent calls to consumer helpline linked to telecom

NEW DELHI – The telecom sector accounted for over 15 percent of the total complaints received by the national consumer helpline (NCH) during November, the ministry of consumers affairs said Tuesday.

“The major problems reported by the callers included excess billing, network problem, non-refund of security deposits and delay in resolving problems,” said the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

26/11 case: Bombay High Court dismisses Kasab’s juvenile plea

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court on Tuesday dismissed the plea of Ajmal Kasab, the lone surviving terrorist of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to order an enquiry to determine whether he was a juvenile even as prosecution sought confirmation of death penalty awarded to him.

The [..] Read the original article: here.

SC slams Maharashtra Govt. for shielding MLA’s money-lending father

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday slammed former Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh for preventing police from registering a criminal case against Congress MLA Dilipkumar Sanandas’s father Gokulchand Sananda, a private money-lender, and also imposed a fine …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

JD-S moves court against land deals probe panel

BANGALORE – The Janata Dal-Secular has moved the high court for axing the one-man panel set up by Karnataka’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government to probe land scams.

The JD-S has appealed to the court to direct the government to allow the Lok Ayukta (ombudsman) to conduct the probe into the scams which allegedly involve …. Read the original article  : here.

Kerala girls to make documentary on gender issues

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala government has joined hands with film-maker Sanjiv Sivan to bring together 25 girls who will make a documentary video Girls Unlimited. The film will be based on their experiences as girls and the impact of gender issues on them.

These girls will be divided into five groups and each group will …. Source article  : Kerala girls to make documentary on gender issues.

Graft case: Virbhadra exempted from personal appearance

SHIMLA – A special court here Thursday granted union Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh and his wife exemption from personal appearance in a corruption case.

Appearing in the court of special judge B.L. Soni for the first time since the chargesheet was filed against them by Himachal Pradesh’s vigilance and anti-corruption bureau Oct 1, Virbhadra Singh … Read : Graft case: Virbhadra exempted from personal appearance.

Eight million kids go hungry in Pakistan

KARACHI – Eight million children in Pakistan are facing food shortages and 23 million kids are deprived of basic education, an official said here.

An adviser to the Sindh chief minister, Sharmila Farooqi, said eight million children went hungry and about 3.5 million children were compelled to do labour.
Speaking at a presentation on child …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Eight million kids go hungry in Pakistan.

Orissa gets show cause notice from apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday asked Orissa why a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe should not be ordered into the alleged diversion of central funds.

The apex court bench headed by Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia issued show cause notice to the state over the issue related to the centrally-sponsored National Rural Employment …. Read the original article  : here.

Supreme Court to monitor probe into 2G spectrum scam

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Thursday announced that it will monitor the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) ’s inquiry into the 2G scam.

A bench comprising Jjustices G S Singhvi and A K Ganguly said the probe will also cover the events of 2001, when the NDA Government was in the power.

The … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court to monitor probe into 2G spectrum scam.

Supreme Court verdict on monitoring of 2G scam probe

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will on Thursday decide on who will monitor the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe on the 2G spectrum scam case.

A bench comprising Justices G S Singhvi and A K Ganguly had reserved the judgement on December …. Original source  : Supreme Court verdict on monitoring of 2G scam probe.

DDA suspends officer for razing night shelters

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Development Authority Wednesday suspended an executive engineer for non-compliance of directions regarding two night shelter which were razed.

Executive Engineer Arif Ali was suspended for razing two fully functional night shelters without notice, putting the Delhi government and the civic authority in a tight spot in a court case related …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : DDA suspends officer for razing night shelters.

Assange judge makes history by allowing tweeting from court

LONDON – The judge in the bail hearing for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was Wednesday reported to have scored a legal first by giving official permission for tweeting from the court.

Chief magistrate Howard Riddle, dressed in judge’s robe and wig, broke with centuries of legal history when he said that tweeting could go ahead, … Original article on : Assange judge makes history by allowing tweeting from court.

Night shelters should stay till cold abates: Apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday directed state governments not to remove any night shelters for the homeless till the biting cold abates.

The court said the night shelters should be retained till the end of February.
The apex court bench of Justice Dalveer Bhandari and Justice Deepak Verma said the state governments … Read more »»».

Orissa moves apex court on proposed Vedanta university

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa Wednesday moved the Supreme Court challenging the state high court’s order quashing land acquisition for the proposed Vedanta University in Puri.

“Today (Wednesday) the state government has filed a special leave petition in the Supreme Court,” Revenue Minister Surya Narayan Patro informed the state assembly.
The Orissa High Court Nov 16 … Read more »».

US murderer executed using animal drug

WASHINGTON – A convicted murderer was executed in the US state of Oklahoma with a drug cocktail that included a sedative used to put down animals, media reports said.

Authorities were allowed by a court to substitute in the three-drug cocktail used for executions in Oklahoma the sedative pentobarbital for sodium thiopental due to a …. Read the original article  : US murderer executed using animal drug.

High court tells Madhya Pradesh to build night shelters

BHOPAL – Taking a cue from the Supreme Court, the Madhya Pradesh High Court Thursday directed the state government to immediately take measures to construct night shelters for the homeless urban poor.

The bench of Chief Justice S.R. Alam and Justice Alok Aradhe directed that the state government must immediately take measures to construct night … Read this article on Gaea Times at : High court tells Madhya Pradesh to build night shelters.

Advanced HIV treatment is free for all, apex court told

NEW DELHI – The government Thursday told the Supreme Court that it will provide free the second line of treatment to all the HIV patients even if their initial treatment was done in private hospitals.

The National AIDS Control Organisation’s (NACO) decision is a significant departure from its earlier stand that the second line … Read more : Advanced HIV treatment is free for all, apex court told.

Vilasrao Deshmukh refutes opposition demand for resignation

MUMBAI/NEW DELHI – Union Heavy Industries Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh on Thursday rejected an opposition demand for his resignation after the Supreme Court slammed him for abusing his position and preventing police from registering a criminal case against Congress MLA Dilipkumar Sanandas’s father Gokulchand Sananda during his tenure … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vilasrao Deshmukh refutes opposition demand for resignation.

Apex court to monitor expanded CBI probe into spectrum scam (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Pointing out to wrongdoings in the grant of licences for second generation spectrum, the Supreme Court Thursday expanded the scope of the CBI probe and said it will monitor it too.

The apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly said the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) should also … Original article on : Apex court to monitor expanded CBI probe into spectrum scam (Roundup).

Court for continuing graft probe against Mumbai Congress chief

MUMBAI – Mumbai Congress chief Kripashankar Singh Thursday suffered a setback after the Bombay High Court reviewed the status of investigations by three investigating agencies into corruption allegations against him and directed them to continue their probe.

Singh, a legislator representing Kalina constituency, has been under a cloud for allegedly possessing assets disproportionate to his …. Original source  : Court for continuing graft probe against Mumbai Congress chief.

Insensitive, callous to demolish night shelters: Apex court

NEW DELHI – Pulling up the authorities, the Supreme Court Thursday said it was the responsibility of the central and state governments to ensure that no deaths occurred due to lack of night shelters and asked that two shelters pulled down in this biting winter be restored within three days.

The apex court bench of … Read more : Insensitive, callous to demolish night shelters: Apex court.

Evidence of wrongdoings in 2G spectrum grant: Supreme Court (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday said there was prima facie evidence of wrongdoings in the grant of licences for 2G spectrum in 2008 and those for dual-use technology to some telecom operators prior to Oct 19, 2007.

The apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly allowed the plea of …. Read the original article  : here.

Razing night shelters in peak winter insensitive: Apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday said it was “insensitive and callous” on the part of the authorities to demolish night shelters meant for the homeless urban poor when the severity of the winter is increasing.

The apex court bench of Justice Dalveer Bhandari and Justice Deepak Verma said this when it was told … Original article on : Razing night shelters in peak winter insensitive: Apex court.

Scope of CBI’s spectrum probe expanded: Bhushan

NEW DELHI – Senior counsel Prashant Bhushan Thursday welcomed the Supreme Court order expanding the scope of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the 2G spectrum scam.

He said that now the CBI will probe the spectrum muddle in its entirety starting from 2001.
The probe will cover the role of officials … Original source on Gaea Times at : Scope of CBI’s spectrum probe expanded: Bhushan.

Supreme Court orders end to Nepal PM poll fiasco

KATHMANDU – As Nepal’s parliament sits Sunday after a month’s hiatus, the futile exercises that failed to elect a new prime minister even after 16 rounds of vote would have to end, the republic’s apex court ordered.

Nepal’s biggest ruling party, the Nepali Congress (NC), which has blocked the formation of a new government even … Original article on : Supreme Court orders end to Nepal PM poll fiasco.

WikiLeaks vindicates our stand on torture: Kashmir separatists

SRINAGAR – Kashmiri separatist leaders Saturday said the WikiLeaks cable disclosures on torture of detainees in Kashmir vindicated their stand on rights violations, while the mainstream political parties continued their blame game.

There is nothing new in these disclosures. Indian forces are resorting to inhuman and brutal torture to crush the sentiments of the people …. Original article  : WikiLeaks vindicates our stand on torture: Kashmir separatists.

Sterlite Industries accused of unlawful deforestation in Chhattisgarh

NEW DELHI – A subsidiary of the Vedanta mining group in India has been accused of clearing forest land allegedly in violation of Supreme Court orders.

According to the BBC, Sterlite Industries has been accused of cutting down trees while constructing a new power plant in Chhattisgarh. However, the company has denied that they have cleared …. Source  : Sterlite Industries accused of unlawful deforestation in Chhattisgarh.

NHRC chief visits Kerala’s pesticide affected areas

NEW DELHI – National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chief K.G. Balakrishnan Saturday visited the areas in Kerala affected by the spraying of the pesticide endosulfan and met the victims.

“There have been several representations of NGOs and victims who had come to the commission to seek help from the severe impact of endosulfan usage. The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NHRC chief visits Kerala’s pesticide affected areas.

ABF Lost Lawsuit Against Rival YRC

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) A lawsuit that tried to block a recent labor concession agreement between struggling LTL carrier YRC Worldwide and the Teamsters was thrown out by a federal judge.
The lawsuit, brought on by rival ABF Freight System, was dismissed by U.S. District Judge Susan Webber Wright because, teh judge ruled, ABF did not …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ABF Lost Lawsuit Against Rival YRC.

India denies condoning torture after WikiLeaks expose (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – India Friday denied condoning custodial torture saying any “aberrations” of human rights violations were dealt with firmly and under legal mechanisms. This followed the latest WikiLeaks expose on the alleged abuse of detainees in Jammu and Kashmir.

“If and when an aberration occurs, it is promptly and firmly dealt with under existing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India denies condoning torture after WikiLeaks expose (Roundup).

Raja was impolite to PM: Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – A Supreme Court verdict directing court monitoring of the CBI probe into the 2G spectrum scam has revealed the impolite language that sacked communictions minister A. Raja had used in a communication to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Raja, in his November 2, 2007 communication, had rejected Manmohan Singh’s suggestion to auction 2G …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Raja was impolite to PM: Supreme Court.

India, Pakistano lawyers come together for peace

NEW DELHI – To encourage people-to-people contact between India and Pakistan, the legal fraternities of both countries will come together to create a common platform for cooperation.

The initiative has been taken by students and alumni of premier law schools in India and Pakistan, and a five-day visit to Pakistan from Dec 22 is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India, Pakistano lawyers come together for peace.

Campaigners seek High Court’s help to save Sherlock Holmes creator’s home

LONDON – Campaigners, who are against plans to redevelop the former home of Sherlock Holmes creator Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, have sought the help of the High Court.

The late Scottish physician and author had written some of his most famous works at Undershaw in Hindhead, Surrey, including ‘The Hound Of The Baskervilles’, the Scotsman reported.

But …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Campaigners seek High Court’s help to save Sherlock Holmes creator’s home.

Commercial disputes with foreign nation flood Chinese courts

BEIJING – The US is among the five nations that have the most civil and commercial disputes with China, a senior official of the Supreme People’s Court (SPC) said. A total of 13,191 foreign-related cases went before the courts during the first 11 months of the year, a year-on-year increase of 15 percent.

Liu Guixiang, …. Source  : Commercial disputes with foreign nation flood Chinese courts.

New Nepal constitution may guarantee right to strike

KATHMANDU – The eight major trade unions in Nepal, including those close to the ruling parties and the opposition Maoists, have recommended to lawmakers drafting the new constitution that the right to strike be included as a fundamental right.

The earlier constitutions did not guarantee it as a fundamental right and the interim constitution allows …. Original source  : New Nepal constitution may guarantee right to strike.

Russian police detain 2,100 to prevent ethnic clash

Moscow, Dec 19 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russian police have detained more than 2,100 protesters in and around Moscow to prevent clash between ultra-nationalists and migrants.

About 1,300 people, many of them with non-lethal weapons, knives and baseball bats were detained in Moscow. Other 800 people were detained across Moscow region, local police spokesman Yevgeny Gildeev said …. Original article  : Russian police detain 2,100 to prevent ethnic clash.

Raja phone call case: ‘I don’t want to play a blame game’, says Justice Reghupathi

CHENNAI – Madras High Court Justice R. Reghupathi reiterating his previous claim that in his letter to Senior Supreme Court Judge, Justice H L Gokhale, he had specifically named former Telecom Minister A Raja, alleging that he had tried to influence him in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Raja phone call case: ‘I don’t want to play a blame game’, says Justice Reghupathi.

NHRC to raise issue of harmful effect of pesticide in Kerala (Lead, Changing dateline)

KASARGODE – National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chief K.G. Balakrishnan Saturday said that he will take up with the central government the seriousness of the impact of the use of pesticide endosulfan in Kerala villages.

“The matter is serious and would be brought to the attention of the centre. Just like the way in which …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NHRC to raise issue of harmful effect of pesticide in Kerala (Lead, Changing dateline).

Assange’s lawyers mad over leaked report detailing his rape charges

NEW YORK – WikiLeaks boss Julian Assange’s lawyers and supporters are furious over someone leaking the confidential police report detailing graphic rape allegations against him.

According to the Australian newspaper, Assange’s Swedish lawyer, Bjorn Hurtig, plans to lodge a formal complaint and demand that Swedish cops investigate how such sensitive material was leaked.

“I do not know … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Assange’s lawyers mad over leaked report detailing his rape charges.

50 dead in Ivory Coast as human rights abuses grow: UN

NEW YORK/GENEVA/PARIS – More than 50 people have been killed and “massive violations of human rights” have taken place in Ivory Coast since Thursday, the UN human rights chief said Sunday as the West African nation swings closer to civil war.

Ivory Coast faces growing unrest as Laurent Gbagbo, backed by the army, resists international …. Source article  : 50 dead in Ivory Coast as human rights abuses grow: UN.

China paying Nepal to nab Tibetan refugees: WikiLeaks

KATHMANDU – The reason the number of Tibetan refugees fleeing to India dropped dramatically since 2008 is because China is paying money to Nepal police to arrest them from the border areas, says a US embassy cable released by whistleblowing website WikiLeaks.

The cable, sent by an unnamed political officer at the American Embassy in …. Original article  : China paying Nepal to nab Tibetan refugees: WikiLeaks.

Swedish accusers may be victims in successful smear: Assange

LONDON – WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange claimed Tuesday that the sexual offences allegations against him in Sweden were a “very successful smear” – and he would not receive “natural justice” if he was extradited from Britain.

He suggested that the two women who made the allegations against him in Sweden were themselves “maybe victims” in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Swedish accusers may be victims in successful smear: Assange.

Dhaka parliamentary body wants laws common to all

DHAKA – A committee of Bangladesh’s parliament has recommended a common law to govern people of all faiths with regard to marriage registration, succession and the giving and taking of gifts.

The current laws on these cover only the majority Muslims.
The parliamentary standing committee on the law ministry Monday recommended enactment of a new …. Read the original article  : Dhaka parliamentary body wants laws common to all.

Supreme Court asserts its powers, overrules technicalities of law

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has said that it holds vast powers under the constitution and an aggrieved person could not be rendered remediless on mere technicalities of law.

“A mere technicality cannot prevent the court from doing justice in exercise of its inherent power,” said the apex court bench of Justice P. Sathasivam … Original article on : Supreme Court asserts its powers, overrules technicalities of law.

Pay in dollars if plea is found frivolous, court tells NRI

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Monday told a non-resident Indian (NRI) petitioner to be ready to pay costs in dollars if his petition is dismissed on grounds of being a frivolous one.

The court was hearing a public interest petition (PIL) filed by Kolkata-based NGO People for Better Treatment (PBT) on the issue of …. Source article  : Pay in dollars if plea is found frivolous, court tells NRI.

Divorced women in dire straits: Survey

NEW DELHI – Approximately 80 percent of divorced or separated women in India live below the poverty line, with a monthly income of less than Rs.4,000, a survey said.

Conducted between October 2008 and September 2009, the survey to determine the economic rights and entitlements of divorced and separated women involved interviewing 405 women across …. Read the original article  : Divorced women in dire straits: Survey.

Haryana speaker asked to decide on defectors within 4 months

CHANDIGARH – The Punjab and Haryana High Court Monday directed the Haryana assembly speaker to decide within four months on the disqualification of five legislators who defected.

Justice Ajay Tiwari of the high court issued the directive to assembly Speaker Harmohinder Singh Chatha on the petition of the Haryana Janhit Congress …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Haryana speaker asked to decide on defectors within 4 months.

Anti-China protesters right to demonstrate upheld by court

HONG KONG – A Hong Kong court Monday threw out charges of unlawful assembly against six activists who demonstrated outside Beijing’s de facto embassy over the jailing of dissident Liu Xiaobo.

The activists were arrested Dec 25 last year for protesting at the Beijing Liaison Office over the jailing that day of Liu, who was … Original article on : Anti-China protesters right to demonstrate upheld by court.

Activists demonstrate against Punjab information commission

CHANDIGARH – Right to Information (RTI) activists Monday demonstrated outside the Punjab State Information Commission here to protest delays in giving details to applicants.

Carrying placards and banners against Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) R.I. Singh, the activists raised slogans against the commission.
The people who are running the State Information Commission are least bothered about … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Activists demonstrate against Punjab information commission.

Indians celebrate century of living in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – It is celebration time for ethnic Indians, whose forefathers came to settle in Malaysia, as they complete a century of living in the northeastern state of Kelantan, bordering Thailand.

The ethnic Indian community chose for the celebrations the historic Batu Caves, a site 13 km from Kuala Lumpur that has one of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indians celebrate century of living in Malaysia.

Rajasthan High Court rejects five percent quota plea for Gujjars

NEW DELHI – The Rajasthan High Court on Wednesday rejected a petition seeking five per cent reservation in government job for the Gujjar community.

The High Court directed the government to collect and provide data on the educational and economic background of the Gujjar community in a year.

Today’s ruling will mean that the Gujjars will …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rajasthan High Court rejects five percent quota plea for Gujjars.

Robbins Umeda LLP Announces an Investigation of Genoptix, Inc.

CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Robbins Umeda LLP has commenced an investigation into possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of the law by certain officers and directors at Genoptix, Inc. (”Genoptix” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: GXDX). Genoptix provides specialized laboratory service that focus on delivering diagnostic services in the United States. The Company was … Read : Robbins Umeda LLP Announces an Investigation of Genoptix, Inc..

Carney Williams PLLC Files Shareholder Lawsuit Against PrivateBancorp Inc.

Carney Williams Bates Bozeman & Pulliam, PLLC announces that December 21, 2010, is the deadline for shareholders of PrivateBancorp, Inc. who purchased stock between November 2, 2007 and October 23, 2009, to inform the court of their intention to be appointed lead plaintiff in the shareholder lawsuit against the company. For more information about … Read : Carney Williams PLLC Files Shareholder Lawsuit Against PrivateBancorp Inc..

Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. Announces Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Against RINO International Corporation

CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com) — The law firm of Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. has filed a class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Central District of California on behalf of all persons or entities who purchased the common stock of RINO International Corporation (”RINO” or the “Company”) (Pink Sheets: RINO.PK) between May … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. Announces Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Against RINO International Corporation.

Caraco Pharmaceutical Laboratories, Ltd. Being Invested On Breach of Fiduciary Duties

DETROIT (GaeaTimes.com) — Ryan & Maniskas, LLP (www.rmclasslaw.com/cases/cpd) is investigating potential claims against the board of directors of Caraco Pharmaceutical Laboratories, Ltd. (”Caraco” or the “Company”) (AMEX: CPD) concerning the Company’s receipt of a proposal from Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (”Sun”) and Sun Pharma Global, Inc. (”Sun Global”) to acquire the remainder of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Caraco Pharmaceutical Laboratories, Ltd. Being Invested On Breach of Fiduciary Duties.

Ryan & Maniskas Law Firm Investigates Against Dionex Corporation

San Francisco (GaeaTimes.com) — Ryan & Maniskas, LLP (www.rmclasslaw.com/cases/dnex) is investigating potential claims against the board of directors of Dionex Corporation (”Dionex” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: DNEX) concerning possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law related to the Company’s efforts to sell Dionex to Thermo Fisher Scientific in a transaction valued at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Howard G. Smith Law Firm Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Mecox Lane Limited

BENSALEM, Pa. (GaeaTimes.com) — Howard G. Smith Law Offices has reportedly filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of all persons or entities who purchased the common stock of Mecox Lane Limited (”Mecox” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ:MCOX) pursuant to the Registration Statement and Prospectus issued in connection with the Company’s October 26, 2010, Initial … Read more : Howard G. Smith Law Firm Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Mecox Lane Limited.

Ryan & Maniskas, LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against China Education Alliance, Inc.

WAYNE (GaeaTimes.com) — Ryan & Maniskas, LLP has announced that they have filed a class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Central District of California on behalf of purchasers the securities of China Education Alliance, Inc. (”China Education Alliance” or the “Company”) (NYSE:CEU) between March 31, 2009, to November 29, 2010, …. Source  : Ryan & Maniskas, LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against China Education Alliance, Inc..

Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Mediacom Communications Corp.

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Levi & Korsinsky, LLP has reportedly filed a class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of current stockholders of Mediacom Communications Corp. regarding the planned … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Mediacom Communications Corp..

Milberg LLP Files Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Against SMART Technologies Inc.

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Reportedly, a class action lawsuit has been filed in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of purchasers of SMART Technologies Inc.Allegedly, SMART Technologies has violated the Securities Act. They intentionally or unintentionally is said to have delivered incomplete statement and prospectus failing to …. Original article  : Milberg LLP Files Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Against SMART Technologies Inc..

US suits against ISI chief in Mumbai massacre case face ’serious legal obstacles’

NEW YORK – The plaintiffs in two US lawsuits, accusing the chief of Pakistan’s main spy agency- the Directorate for Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)- of nurturing terrorists involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, would have to overcome serious legal obstacles, according to lawyers and experts.

A lawyer for the US plaintiff, John Kreindler, expressed the hope of …. Original source  : US suits against ISI chief in Mumbai massacre case face ’serious legal obstacles’.

Australia apologises to Indian-origin doctor

MELBOURNE – The Australian government Thursday issued a formal apology to Indian-origin doctor Mohamed Haneef, who was wrongly detained on terrorism-related charges three years ago, expressing the hope that he can now move on with his life.

Haneef received a substantial compensation payout from the government this week for his detention in July 2007.
“The [..] Read the original article: here.

We are starving, say ex-staff of Union Carbide

BHOPAL – They are neither victims nor accused in the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy and yet 632 former permanent employees of the now defunct Union Carbide plant find themselves at the receiving end.

They were employees at the plant, which saw the world’s worst industrial disaster break out on the night of Dec 2-3, 1984, …. Original source  : We are starving, say ex-staff of Union Carbide.

Train services continue to remain disrupted due to Gujjar agitation

PILUPURA – Train services continue to remain disrupted in Rajasthan as Gujjars have stepped up their agitation a day after the High Court kept on hold the state government’s Reservation Act giving five per cent extra quota for Gujjars in government jobs.

About 60 trains, have already been either diverted or cancelled. They have now threatened …. Source  : Train services continue to remain disrupted due to Gujjar agitation.

Verdict on N D Tiwari paternity suit today

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court will pronounce its order on whether veteran Congress leader N D Tiwari would have to undergo a DNA test following a claim by Rohit Shekhar, who claims to be his biological son

Justice S Ravindra Bhatt had reserved his order on September 21 after hearing the contention of Shekhar, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Verdict on N D Tiwari paternity suit today.

Plea against Ketan Desai’s university post rejected

AHMEDABAD/NEW DELHI – The Gujarat High Court Wednesday rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) against the election of tainted former Medical Council of India (MCI) chief Ketan Desai to the Gujarat University senate.

The bench comprising Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice Akil Kureshi also imposed a cost of Rs.10,000 on the petitioner.
The court, … Read more : Plea against Ketan Desai’s university post rejected.

Obama signs law allowing gays in military

WASHINGTON – A measure that allows homosexuals to serve openly in the US military was signed into law Wednesday by President Barack Obama.

The previous ban on open service — known as don’t ask, don’t tell — was implemented in the 1990s as a compromise measure, but grew increasingly unpopular as homosexuals serving in the … Read more >>.

Gujarat court rejects plea against Ketan Desai

AHMEDABAD/NEW DELHI – The Gujarat High Court Wednesday rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) against the election of tainted former Medical Council of India (MCI) chief Ketan Desai to the Gujarat University senate.

The court also imposed a cost of Rs.10,000 on the petitioner.
I am deeply shocked that the court dismissed our PIL that …. Original source  : Gujarat court rejects plea against Ketan Desai.

Don’t evict ‘unauthorized occupant’ without permission

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has held that even an unauthorized occupant of a house in a slum is treated as a tenant and permission of competent authorities is needed to initiate eviction proceedings against him.

By no stretch of imagination can a trespasser (unauthorised occupant) be taken out of the definition of occupier …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Don’t evict ‘unauthorized occupant’ without permission.

Child rights panel comes to rescue of jailed Jharkhand girls

NEW DELHI – The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has asked a Jharkhand official to take action in a case in which three arrested school girls were treated as adults and sent to jail, a statement said Wednesday.

According to the commission, the girls should have been tried under the Juvenile Justice …. Original source  : Child rights panel comes to rescue of jailed Jharkhand girls.

Russian opposition sues Putin for slander

MOSCOW – Russia’s opposition leaders have said that they were filing defamation suits against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin for accusing them of extravagantly spending Russia’s resources.

“This is nothing else but lies and slander. We demand from Putin an apology and a million roubles (???21,200) in compensation,” The Telegraph quoted Boris Nemtsov, a former Deputy Prime …. Read the original article  : here.

Bihar’s landless march for land reforms

PATNA – Ignoring the freezing winter winds and away from whatever warmth their thatched huts provide, hundreds of poor and marginalised men and women in Bihar are marching towards Patna demanding land reforms. The state, in the cusp of major changes, has seen landlessness increase over the two decades.

The “Land March,” which began at …. Source article  : Bihar’s landless march for land reforms.

Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. Announces Investigation of Todd Shipyards Corporation Buyout

WILMINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. announces that it is investigating potential claims against the board of directors of Todd Shipyards Corporation (”Todd” or the “Company”) (NYSE: TOD) concerning possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law related to the Company’s entry into an agreement to be acquired by Vigor Industrial … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. Announces Investigation of Todd Shipyards Corporation Buyout.

Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against J.Crew Group, Inc.

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Levi & Korsinsky, LLP has filed a class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of current stockholders of J.Crew Group, Inc. (NYSE:JCG) in connection with the planned acquisition of the company by TPG Capital L.P. and Leonard Green & …. Read the original article  : Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against J.Crew Group, Inc..

Weiss & Lurie Announces Investigation of Martek Biosciences Corporation

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Weiss & Lurie, a national class action and shareholder rights law firm with offices in New York City and Los Angeles, is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by members of the Board of Directors of Martek Biosciences Corporation (”Martek” or the “Company”) arising from … Read more >>.

Robbins Umeda LLP Investigates Alternate Energy Holdings, Inc.

SAN DIEGO (GaeaTimes.com) — Robbins Umeda LLP has commenced an investigation into Alternate Energy Holdings, Inc. (”Alternate Energy” or the “Company”) (OTC: AEHI.PK) concerning possible violations of state and federal securities laws.
Alternate Energy claims that it is a development stage company, focusing on the purchase, optimization, and construction of green energy sources, primarily nuclear …. Original article  : Robbins Umeda LLP Investigates Alternate Energy Holdings, Inc..

Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. Announces Investigations Of Whitney Holding Corporation Buyout

WILMINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. announces that it is investigating potential claims against the board of directors of Whitney Holding Corporation (”Whitney” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: WTNY) concerning possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law related to the Company’s entry into an agreement to be acquired by Hancock Holding …. Source  : Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. Announces Investigations Of Whitney Holding Corporation Buyout.

‘Tees Maar Khan’, ‘Dabangg’ dragged to court

LUCKNOW – A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed before the Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court Thursday alleging obscenity in Bollywood films “Dabangg” and “Tees Maar Khan”.

The petition sought the deletion of popular songs “Munni Badnaam Hui” from “Dabangg” and “Shiela ki Jawani” from “Tees Maar Khan”.
Filed by Nutan Thakur, wife of …. Source  : ‘Tees Maar Khan’, ‘Dabangg’ dragged to court.

Undergo paternity test, court tells Tiwari (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Veteran Congress leader N.D. Tiwari was Thursday directed by Delhi High Court to undergo a DNA test to ascertain a young man’s claim that Tiwari is his biological father.

Rejecting Tiwari’s plea that he could not be forced to undergo the DNA test, Justice S. Ravindra Bhat said that “the wider … Original source on Gaea Times at : Undergo paternity test, court tells Tiwari (Second Lead).

World Bank increases funding for Tamil Nadu project

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu government’s poverty reduction scheme Vazhndhu Kaattuvom Project (VKP) got an additional funding of Rs.950 crore from the World Bank Thursday.

An agreement to this effect was signed by the state government, the central government and the World Bank at the state secretariat here.
With this fund, the state government has decided …. Source article  : World Bank increases funding for Tamil Nadu project.

BCCI panel’s proceedings against Lalit Modi stayed

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Saturday stayed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) disciplinary committees proceedings against suspended Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi, saying that the panel did not have the BCCI general bodys mandate.

Modis counsel Mehmood Abdi had earlier challenged the legality of the three-member disciplinary committee …. Original article  : BCCI panel’s proceedings against Lalit Modi stayed.

Chhattisgarh lawyers, politicians silent on Sen verdict

RAIPUR – A day has passed since life imprisonment has been pronounced to rights activist Binayak Sen along with Maoist ideologue Narayan Sanyal and businessman Piyush Guha, but Chhattisgarh’s lawyers and politicians are silent on the subject.

Leading figures from social work, media and even advocates have so far refused to make any public …. Source  : Chhattisgarh lawyers, politicians silent on Sen verdict.

Goa governor gets X-mas gift – copy of RTI Act

PANAJI – A ribbon-wrapped copy of the Right To Information Act (RTI) Act – that’s one Christmas gift Goa Governor S.S. Sidhu might not forget for a long while.

Sidhu, who was summoned Wednesday by the Goa State Information Commission (GSIC) for denying information sought under the RTI to social activist Aires Rodrigues, …. Read the original article  : Goa governor gets X-mas gift – copy of RTI Act.

Himachal all set to empower rural women

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh is all set to empower women at the grassroots level by electing only women to around 13,000 seats in panchayati raj institutions (PRIs), the village-level third tier of governance.

The Himachal Pradesh government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, in 2008 raised reservation of seats for women in all rural … Read more : Himachal all set to empower rural women.

Activist’s in Mumbai protest Binayak Sen verdict

Dec 23, Mumbai (IANS) Activists and the public gathered outside Mumbais busy Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Friday to protest a Chhattisgarh court’s verdict sentencing rights campaigner Binayak Sen to life imprisonment for sedition and links with Maoists.

Its a tragic day for our country, said documentary-filmmaker Anand Patwardhan who was part of the demonstration.
… Original article on : Activist’s in Mumbai protest Binayak Sen verdict.

Smiling faces turn red after Sen verdict

RAIPUR – It was a huge gathering of right activists and mediapersons outside at the district and sessions court Friday here as judge B.P. Varma prepared to rule in a case involving rights activist Binayak Sen.

Activists, mainly of the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), of which Sen a national vice president, reached the … Read more »».

Samjhauta blasts: Hindu leader sent to police custody till Jan 3

PANCHKULA – Hindu religious leader Swami Aseemanand was Friday sent to police custody till Jan 3 by the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) special court here in connection with the 2007 Samjhauta train blasts in Haryana that killed 68 people.

Aseemanand was brought to NIA special judge Ritu Garg’s court under tight security, from where he … Read more : Samjhauta blasts: Hindu leader sent to police custody till Jan 3.

Case against Sen fraudulent, says Maoist MP from Nepal

KATHMANDU – Reacting in stunned disbelief to the news that Indian rights activist Binayak Sen had been slapped with life imprisonment by an Indian court Friday for “sedition” and “conspiracy”, a Maoist lawmaker with long links with India said it was a “fraudulent case”.

“Binayak Sen is a rights activist and should not be dragged …. Source article  : Case against Sen fraudulent, says Maoist MP from Nepal.

Binayak Sen case timeline

NEW DELHI – The following is the timeline of the prosecution of Binayak Sen, a doctor and human rights activist convicted for sedition and conspiracy by a Chhattisgarh court and awarded a life term Friday.

May 14, 2007: Binayak Sen arrested in Bilaspur on charges of carrying messages between Piyush Guha, a businessman, and Narayan … Read more >>.

Nepal’s new ‘crown prince’ gets a Christmas reprieve

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister Sujata Koirala’s son-in-law, who became embroiled in a long and increasingly acrimonious controversy after locking horns with deposed crown prince Paras Bir Bikram Shah, was granted a Christmas reprieve by the Supreme Court Friday.

Rubel Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi national married to Koirala’s daughter Melanie, faces mounting negative publicity ever … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal’s new ‘crown prince’ gets a Christmas reprieve.

Bangladesh detains Indian ship

DHAKA – Bangladesh authorities have detained Indian ship MV Ocean Pearl after a court issued an “arrest order” over a suit claiming compensation for the alleged loss of cargo.

The ship has been detained at Patenga, 14 km south of the port city of Chittagong, the New Age reported Sunday.
A cargo supplier has sought …. Original source  : Bangladesh detains Indian ship.

After raid, Dabur Nepal dragged to court

KATHMANDU – Misfortunes contained to rain down on Indian multinational Dabur Indias independent group company in Nepal, with a public interest litigation dragging it to Supreme Court Monday, just a week after its godown was raided by state vigilance bodies.

Supreme Court judge Bharat Upreti was Monday scheduled to hear a petition asking for Dabur … Read more : After raid, Dabur Nepal dragged to court.

‘Bigg Boss’ allowed prime time slot but no obscenity

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Monday allowed reality TV show “Bigg Boss” to be aired at prime time slot of 9 p.m. but directed that “no obscene language and visuals, including beeps” will be allowed.

The court observed that the channel could air season 4 of “Bigg Boss” at 9 p.m. following an …. Original article  : ‘Bigg Boss’ allowed prime time slot but no obscenity.

Ajmer shuts down over Gujjar protest

AJMER – Major markets here were shut and traffic on the roads was sparse as the shutdown call by Gujjars, demanding five percent reservation in government jobs in Rajasthan, evoked a near total response.

Security was tightened in the city and police personnel were seen patrolling sensitive areas. There were no reports of any violence.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan’s two dozen Hindu families seek asylum in India

ISLAMABAD – More than two dozen Hindu families in Pakistan have sought political asylum in India after an increase in cases of kidnapping for ransom and target killings of the members of their community in Balochistan province, an official said.

The Hindu families have approached the Indian high commission here for visa and political asylum. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan’s two dozen Hindu families seek asylum in India.

Chile’s prisons are like garbage cans: official

Santiago, Dec 27 (IANS/EFE) An official of Chile’s Catholic Church has said jails in the country are like “garbage cans”, referring to the overcrowded conditions in most of them.

“Our prisons are perfect garbage cans, where people are treated like human garbage,” Alfonso Baeza, a church priest and former vicar of the Pastoral Workers Organisation … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chile’s prisons are like garbage cans: official.

‘101 things’ – a door to the world of Indian police

NEW DELHI – Why do we need police, what is meant by police powers, if a police officer asks me to go to the police station do I have to go? 101 such questions along with answers about the Indian police in a new glossy pocket-sized booklet bring out unknown facts that one hardly knew … Original article on : ‘101 things’ – a door to the world of Indian police.

Court focuses on man who had brawl with Nepal’ ex-crown prince

KATHMANDU – While Nepal’s deposed crown prince Paras Bir Bikram Shah was turned into a hero by his supporters and released on bail after a drunken brawl in a jungle resort earlier this month, his alleged victim now faces the spotlight with the country’s apex court asking the government to explain whether it was sheltering …. Original source  : Court focuses on man who had brawl with Nepal’ ex-crown prince.

Iran hangs alleged spy, opposition collaborator

TEHRAN – Iran Tuesday hanged a man charged with spying for Israel’s Mossad intelligence service and another man for collaboration with an opposition group, the judiciary reported.

Ali-Akbar S. had allegedly cooperated with Mossad for six years and provided it with classified information on the missile programme of the Iranian revolutionary guards, for which he … Read : Iran hangs alleged spy, opposition collaborator.

Chinese woman’s claim to virtual assets dismissed

BEIJING – A court in China has dismissed a woman’s claim to virtual assets she had earned while playing online games with her husband whom she was divorcing, a media report said.

The couple had married at the end of 2008. They had got to know each other through an online game, reported China Daily … Original article on : Chinese woman’s claim to virtual assets dismissed.

Milosevic confidante jailed in Serbia for embezzlement

Belgrade, Dec 28 (IANS/AKI) A Belgrade court has sentenced a confidante of former president of Yogoslavia and Serbia Slobodan Milosevic to eight years in prison for defrauding the country of 60 million euros.

Mihalj Kertes, who headed the country’s customs agency in the 1990’s during Milosevic’s rule, was accused of diverting customs revenue to [..] Read the original article: here.

More US job seekers head to Australia

WASHINGTON – Facing a job crunch at home, more US citizens are heading to Australia where nearly 7,000 Americans are currently working on long-term visas, an 80 percent jump over the past five years.

US citizens are now the third-largest group applying for work visas, after British and Indian nationals, the Wall Street Journal said, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : More US job seekers head to Australia.

Kolkata intellectuals to fight for Binayak Sen’s release

KOLKATA – Intellectuals, politicians and social activists in West Bengal Monday condemned the life sentence awarded to noted rights activist Binayak Sen and demanded his immediate release.

“The judge has not given a verdict for the life imprisonment of Dr Sen. He has given a verdict for the death of Indian democracy,” said singer-turned Trinamool …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kolkata intellectuals to fight for Binayak Sen’s release.

Former Russian oil tycoon convicted for fraud

Moscow, Dec 27 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russia’s former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon Lebedev, both of whom have been jailed for tax evasion, were Monday found guilty of embezzlement by a Moscow court.

Khodorkovsky and Lebedev, who have already spent seven years behind bars, are facing new charges of embezzling 218 tonnes …. Original source  : Former Russian oil tycoon convicted for fraud.

Chomsky, 81 others, bat for Binayak Sen

NEW DELHI – Support continued to mount for jailed rights activist Binayak Sen, with noted American scholar Noam Chomsky and 81 other intellectuals and academicians Monday expressing shock at the life sentence awarded to him and a protest staged here to demand justice for him.

“Doctor Binayak Sen has never resorted to violence against any … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chomsky, 81 others, bat for Binayak Sen.

Free Binayak Sen: Delhi protestors demand

NEW DELHI – Holding placards and chanting slogans, activists, students and academicians Monday protested in the capital against a Chhattisgarh court sentencing rights activist and doctor Binayak Sen to life imprisonment. The protesters demanded that Sen be freed.

The Raipur court Dec 24 sentenced Sen to life imprisonment for sedition and links with outlawed Maoists.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Free Binayak Sen: Delhi protestors demand.

Northeast group wants case against Binayak Sen withdrawn

AGARTALA – A rights group from northeast India Wednesday urged the central and Chhattisgarh governments to withdraw the sedition cases against jailed human rights activist Binayak Sen at once to ensure his immediate release.

“To stifle the voice of the human rights movement and simultaneous protest against state and non-state sponsored terrorism, Sen has been …. Read the original article  : Northeast group wants case against Binayak Sen withdrawn.

Cuban court commutes death sentence against Cuban-American

HAVANA – Cuba’s only death row inmate will not receive capital punishment, the country’s highest court decided, according to dissident groups.

Humberto Eladio Real Suarez, 40, was the last man on death row in Cuba since two Salvadorans saw their sentence for terrorism commuted from death to prison terms a few weeks ago. His sentence … Read more »».

Court tells Wipro to deposit Rs.240 mn in tax case

BANGALORE – The Karnataka High Court has directed IT bellwether Wipro Ltd to deposit Rs.24 crore (Rs.240 million) by Wednesday evening in a case of tax on re-export of software, a company official admitted.

As the company did not comply with the courts order of Dec 10, the vacation bench of Justice Venugopala Gowda and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Court tells Wipro to deposit Rs.240 mn in tax case.

Activists target Punjab information panel’s decisions

CHANDIGARH – Upset over the manner in which the Punjab Information Commission works, a group of Right to Information (RTI) activists here is all set to bring out a book highlighting a hundred of its “ridiculous” decisions. The chief information commissioner has refuted their charges.

Punjab’s RTI activists’ federation has accused state Chief Information Commissioner …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Remove Balakrishnan as NHRC chief: Prashant Bhushan

NEW DELHI – Senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan Tuesday demanded the removal of former chief justice K.G. Balakrishnan as the chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in the wake of the controversy involving the spectacular increase in the assets of his son-in-law, P.V. Srinijan.

He said that as a part of the initiation of … Read : Remove Balakrishnan as NHRC chief: Prashant Bhushan.

Jhadapia not called as witness, riots panel tells court

GANDHINAGAR – The Nanavati-Mehta commission probing the 2002 Godhra train carnage and the communal riots that followed, Tuesday informed the Gujarat High Court that former state minister Gordhan Jhadapia was not summoned as a witness.

A communication by the commission’s secretary to the government’s advocate, read by the division bench of Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jhadapia not called as witness, riots panel tells court.

High Court orders attachment of Sanjay Dutt’s properties

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Tuesday ordered the attachment of two properties of Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt over a financial row with producer Shakeel Noorani, lawyers said.

The decision followed an arbitration award passed by the Indian Motion Pictures Producers Association (IMPPA) in January this year in favour of Noorani.
Noorani’s lawyer Ashok …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Himachal Pradesh mulls legal action against vulgar phone calls

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh is considering making vulgar telephone calls a cognisable offence, Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal said here Tuesday.

“The government is contemplating whether vulgar telephone calls can be made a cognisable offence through an appropriate law,” Dhumal said while reviewing the law and order situation in the state.
Dhumal said the police …. Original article  : Himachal Pradesh mulls legal action against vulgar phone calls.

Mother vows to get son Binayak Sen out of jail

KOLKATA – With support mounting for rights activist Binayak Sen, handed a life sentence by a Chattisgarh court for Maoist links, the doctor’s mother says she will “do whatever is needed” to get her son out of prison.

“The whole world is with my son. This is my biggest source of strength,” said 84-year-old Anasua …. Source article  : Mother vows to get son Binayak Sen out of jail.

Bangladesh apex court seeks details of graft survey

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s Supreme Court Tuesday asked the national chapter of Transparency International to submit documents to support its recent survey report that said the people in the country are victims of corruption in the judiciary.

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has been in news for its report released earlier this month, with ministers criticising its … Read more »»».

Apple slapped with privacy lawsuit

SAN FRANCISCO – Apple has been slapped with a lawsuit contending that applications for its iPhone and iPad unlawfully provide unique and personal information about users to advertising networks.

The lawsuit against Apple and four other companies that provide apps for its popular devices was filed in San Jose, California Dec 23 but was first …. Source article  : Apple slapped with privacy lawsuit.

Gujjars agree to talks Thursday as stir reaches Delhi (Night Lead)

BAYANA/NEW DELHI – The Gujjar community said it would hold talks with the Rajasthan government Thursday while its 10-day agitation for five percent reservation in government jobs continued to hit rail services in parts of the state and even spilled over to the national capital and Greater Noida.

“Gujjar leaders today (Wednesday) evening communicated to … Read : Gujjars agree to talks Thursday as stir reaches Delhi (Night Lead).

Wipro deposits Rs.240 mn in tax case on court order

BANGALORE – IT bellwether Wipro Limited Wednesday deposited Rs.24 crore (Rs.240 million) with the state commercial tax department in compliance with a Karnataka High Court directive, a company official said.

We have deposited the amount (Rs.240 million) as directed by the court Tuesday but we look forward to an early solution to the issue of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wipro deposits Rs.240 mn in tax case on court order.

Passengers stuck in Metro for 40 minutes, services hit (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Travellers on Delhi Metro’s Jahangirpuri-Gurgaon line faced problems after a train got stuck due to a technical snag in a tunnel near Patel Chowk station locking in passengers for more than 40 minutes Wednesday afternoon.

Metro traffic in both the directions on the line remained adversely affected between Patel Chowk and … Original article on : Passengers stuck in Metro for 40 minutes, services hit (Second Lead).

Apex court judge criticised for listing daughters as ‘liability’

NEW DELHI – Supreme Court judge Gyan Sudha Misra has come under criticism from the legal fraternity for declaring the future marriages of her two daughters as “liability” with a senior counsel calling it as manifestation of a “retrograde mindset”.

Misra, the only women judge in the Supreme Court at present, shocked everyone by … Read more >>.

Gujjars agree to talks but stir reaches Delhi (Second Lead)

BAYANA – The Gujjar community Wednesday prepared to hold talks with the Rajasthan government while its 10-day agitation for five percent reservation in government jobs continued to hit rail services in parts of the state and even spilled over to the national capital and Greater Noida.

Colonel (retired) K.S. Bainsla, convener of the Gujjar … Read more >>.

Treat farmer suicides as murders, demands Vidarbha outfit

NAGPUR – Treat suicides of Vidarbha cotton farmers as murder cases, farmers and farm widows demanded Wednesday as they took out a 5,000-strong rally in Pandharkawada town of Yavatmal district of eastern Maharashtra to protest their exclusion from the recent Rs.1,600-crore aid packages.

“Cotton farmers have submitted the memorandum to the local talsildar and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Treat farmer suicides as murders, demands Vidarbha outfit.

Jaitapur n-plant site issue being politicised, says Ramesh

NEW DELHI – Environment and Forests Minister Jairam Ramesh Wednesday said that the issue of setting up a nuclear power plant at Jaitapur in Maharashtra is being “politicised” by opposition parties, unhappy over the “success” of the India-US nuclear deal, and ruled out a review of the green nod for the project site.

“The issue …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jaitapur n-plant site issue being politicised, says Ramesh.

Gujjars agree to talks to end stir (Lead, Changing dateline)

BAYANA – The Gujjar community, agitating for over a week for five percent reservation in government jobs in Rajasthan, Wednesday agreed to hold talks with government representatives.

Colonel (retired) K.S. Bainsla, convener of the Gujjar Arakshan Sangharsh Samiti, the outfit spearhheading the protests, is likely to lead an eight-member delegation to meet government representatives … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gujjars agree to talks to end stir (Lead, Changing dateline).

Harbhajan to get notice for evading service tax

LUDHIANA – India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has been caught on a wrong foot for not paying service tax on his income, here Wednesday.

According to the officials of central excise department here, Harbhajan, who stays in Jalandhar some 60 km from here, has not paid the service tax on his income through first and second … Read more : Harbhajan to get notice for evading service tax.

Two Pakistani judges lobbying for promotion face action

ISLAMABAD – Two Pakistani judges have been issued show-cause notices for trying to influence the Lahore High court chief justice for their promotion and posting.

The Daily Times reported Friday that Lahore High Court Chief Justice Ijaz Ahmad Chaudhry Thursday issued the show-cause notices to the two judicial officers for trying to put external influence … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two Pakistani judges lobbying for promotion face action.

Pakistan to defend ISI officials in Mumbai attacks lawsuit filed in US court

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has decided to contest the US lawsuit implicating its top intelligence officials, including Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Ahmed Shuja Pasha, in the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

“The government of Pakistan has taken a firm decision to strongly contest the suit filed against the ISI, its present and past directors general,” the Dawn … Original article on : Pakistan to defend ISI officials in Mumbai attacks lawsuit filed in US court.

Sony sues LG for patent violation

SAN FRANCISCO – Sony has taken the plunge into the escalating mobile phone patent wars. The Japanese electronics company has sued South Korean rival LG for patent infringement, claiming that LG’s mobile phones violate seven Sony patents, according to court documents.

Sony filed the patent suit Wednesday with the US International Trade Commission (ITC) and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New speed limit rules for Abu Dhabi roads

Abu Dhabi, Dec 30 (IANS/WAM) New rules on speed limits on all roads in the emirate of Abu Dhabi will be enforced from Saturday, an official said.

The rules were approved by the transport department and the municipalities of Abu Dhabi, Al-Ain and the Western Region, said Colonel Hussain Ahmad Al-Harithi, director of the Traffic … Original article on : New speed limit rules for Abu Dhabi roads.

NIA files chargesheet in Kerala against SIMI members

NEW DELHI – The National Investigation Agency Thursday filed a chargesheet against 17 members of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India outfit for holding a “seditious” secret meeting in 2006 in Kerala.

The chargesheet was filed in a special court in Ernakulam.
A press release issued Thursday said that NIA presented a chargesheet against …. Read the original article  : here.

Visa on arrival to tourists from four Southeast Asian nations

NEW DELHI – Tourists from Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and the Philippines will be provided tourist visa on arrival from Jan 1, 2011, home ministry officials said Thursday.

The visa shall be allowed for a maximum validity of 30 days with single entry facility by immigration officers at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata Airports on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Visa on arrival to tourists from four Southeast Asian nations.

Deve Gowda asks farmers to revolt against government

GUNTUR – Former prime minister and Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) president H.D. Deve Gowda Thursday urged farmers to rise and revolt against the central government which, he claimed, was neglecting their problems.

Addressing a public meeting organised by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in this Andhra Pradesh town to highlight the problems of farmers, Deve Gowda …. Original source  : Deve Gowda asks farmers to revolt against government.

Delhi’s disabled community to hold candlelight vigil Friday

NEW DELHI – The disabled community here will hold a candlelight vigil outside social justice and empowerment minister Mukul Wasnik’s house to protest against the delay in drafting of a new disability law, even as the rest of the country welcomes the New Year with parties and get-togethers Friday.

Javed Abidi of the Disabled Rights …. Original source  : Delhi’s disabled community to hold candlelight vigil Friday.