Accidents & Disasters – Weekly Newsletter for January 24-31, 2011

Journalist shot dead in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – In a second such instance within five weeks, a journalist was shot dead by unidentified assailants at his residence in Raipur district, police said Monday. The killers were believed to be upset over a news story the scribe reported.

Umesh Rajput, employed with Hindi daily Nai Duniya, was killed in Chhura area of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Journalist shot dead in Chhattisgarh.

Violence after bus mows down 8-year-old

GORAKHPUR – A minor boy was mowed down by a state-owned bus here Monday, sparking violence and tension as protestors clashed with police, damaged several vehicles and blockaded roads, officials said.

The eight-year-old boy was mowed down by the speeding Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation bus in Chauri Chaura town. The bus driver absconded … Original source on Gaea Times at : Violence after bus mows down 8-year-old.

Kamat mulls CBI probe into Goa drug nexus

PANAJI – Bowing to pressure from both opposition and ruling legislators, Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat Monday said he was actively considering handing over the police-politicians-drug mafia nexus case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

I am considering handing over the case to the CBI. The file has been sent to me by … Read : Kamat mulls CBI probe into Goa drug nexus.

Moderate intensity quake jolts Kashmir

SRINAGAR – A moderate intensity earthquake, with its epicentre in Tajikistan in central Asia, jolted the Kashmir Valley Monday morning, creating panic at some places here.

The tremor, measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale, occurred at 8.15 a.m. this morning,” an official of the local weather office said.
The epicentre of the quake was situated …. Original source  : Moderate intensity quake jolts Kashmir.

Three held with 500 cartridges in Uttar Pradesh

MEERUT – Three men were arrested here with a cache of cartridges, police said Monday.

Around 500 cartridges of country-made pistols were seized from them Sunday night following a joint raid by the special operation group (SOG) and the district police.
The three men were to supply the cartridges to their clients in Delhi, Uttar … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Three held with 500 cartridges in Uttar Pradesh.

Tremors felt in Kashmir

KASHMIR – Tremors were felt in Kashmir early Monday after an earthquake hit Tajikistan in central Asia, met officials said.

However, no damage of life and property has been reported so far.
The earthquake measured 6.1 on the Richter scale. The tremors were felt at 8.15 a.m.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tremors felt in Kashmir.

Quake jolts Tajikistan

BEIJING – An earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter Scale jolted Tajikistan Monday morning, authorities said.

According to the China Earthquake Networks Center, it had a depth of about 90 km.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Quake jolts Tajikistan.

Man mistaken for drug cartel boss to sue government

Ensenada (Mexico), Jan 24 (IANS/EFE) A man mistakenly identified as the leader of the Tijuana drug cartel by Mexican prosecutors said he might sue the government for damaging his reputation.

Raul Inda Gonzalez’s image was posted on the web site of the Attorney General’s Office, which identified him as Fernando Sanchez Arellano, the leader of …. Original source  : Man mistaken for drug cartel boss to sue government.

Chopper piloted by Chilean president makes emergency landing

Santiago, Jan 24 (IANS/EFE) The helicopter being piloted by President Sebastian Piera to his vacation home in southern Chile had to make an emergency landing because of a malfunction, Radio Bio Bio reported Sunday.

However, the president soon thereafter denied the report.
“The helicopter transporting President Piera had to make a forced landing on its …. Original article  : Chopper piloted by Chilean president makes emergency landing.

Indian origin woman burned alive in New Zealand

WELLINGTON – New Zealand police alerted Interpol Monday to find the husband of an Indian-Fijian woman who they say was burned alive last week along a North Island roadside.

Police said the husband of Ranjeeta Sharma, 28, was believed to have flown to Fiji, where both came from, with their 4-year-old son Friday, the morning [..] Read the original article: here.

Gunman wounds four police officers in US

WASHINGTON – A gunman walked into a precinct police station Sunday afternoon in Detroit and opened fire, wounding four officers before he was shot and killed by police.

Detroit Police chief Ralph Godbee Jr. said that all four officers were alive and expected to survive, despite serious wounds.
Authorities said that the man walked into …. Original source  : Gunman wounds four police officers in US.

Orissa MP booked for assaulting cop

BHUBANESWAR – Bhartruhari Mahtab, an MP from Orissa’s ruling Biju Janata Dal, was Sunday booked for attacking a police officer who prevented his supporters from entering a museum complex, police said.

Mahtab allegedly assaulted Sub-Inspector Amitabha Mohapatra inside the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Birthplace Museum in Cuttack, 26 km from here, after the latter prevented …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoist-backed tribal leader held in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A leader of Maoist-backed tribal outfit Chasi Mulia Adivasi Sangh (CMAS) was arrested Sunday in Orissas Koraput district, police said.

Ram Padi, 35, second in command in the CMAS, was nabbed from Bandhugaon area, over 500 km from Bhubaneswar.
He was sought by both Orissa and Andhra Pradesh police for his involvement in …. Original source  : Maoist-backed tribal leader held in Orissa.

Three arrested in sex scandal

KOLKATA – Three people were arrested early Sunday from West Bengal’s Howrah district after a 17-year-old girl accused the trio of raping her and circulating obscene video clippings involving her on mobile phones, police said.

The girl had accused Papai alias Chiranjeet, Mithun and Sanjay of raping her and circulating the footage via MMS. [..] Read the original article: here.

Two youths held for robbery, minor detained

NEW DELHI – Two youths were arrested and a minor boy detained in north Delhi Sunday soon after they robbed a bakery item supplier of Rs.8,000 and a mobile phone, police said.

Mukesh, 19, and Surender Singh, 20, were nabbed from Sultanpuri by passers-by after they looted Ishtyaq, who was going on his bicycle to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two youths held for robbery, minor detained.

Man who assaulted woman during robbery arrested

NEW DELHI – A man who assaulted a woman during a robbery bid in east Delhi last week has been arrested, police said Sunday.

Navin alias Goldy had pushed Madhumita, an MBA aspirant, near the Karkari More flyover Jan 15 as he tried to snatch her bag.
Navin and a receiver of stolen property were [..] Read the original article: here.

Wife, lover arrested for killing husband

NEW DELHI – A married woman, her paramour and a newly-married couple were arrested for killing the woman’s husband in Trilokpuri area of east Delhi, police said Sunday.

Reshma and Shah Alam, who killed Reshma’s husband Rakesh, 24, were arrested Saturday along with Nashir and his wife Arti.
The case was solved after Nashir was …. Source  : Wife, lover arrested for killing husband.

Three management professionals held for cheating

NEW DELHI – Three business administration professionals have been arrested for duping people in the guise of providing loans, police said Sunday.

Parmod Kumar Sharma, 29, an MBA, and Rajbir Singh, 26, and Mandhir Singh, 24, both BBAs, were arrested earlier this week from Vivek Vihar in east Delhi. Sharma and Rajbir Singh were arrested …. Source  : Three management professionals held for cheating.

Footballer accused of running cocaine smuggling ring

AUCKLAND – A footballer has been charged with running an international cocaine smuggling ring which was recently busted here in New Zealand, police said.

The 27-year-old Kindness Agwu, a semi-professional footballer, has played for Metro FC and Mangere United. He is one of the nine people facing charges in connection with the multimillion-dollar operation, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Footballer accused of running cocaine smuggling ring.

Four soldiers injured in Punjab explosion

LUDHIANA – Four Indian Army soldiers were injured when an explosive they were carrying to a dump to defuse exploded Sunday morning, officials said.

According to defence officials, the injured soldiers were immediately moved to a nearby hospital for treatment. Three were discharged after first aid but one soldier was referred to a hospital in … Read more >>.

Suspected toxic gas leak affects 9 detenus in China

KUNMING – A suspected toxic gas leak near a detention facility in southwest China caused the poisoning of nine inmates Monday night, local officials and witnesses said Tuesday.

Inmates of the Xishan Detention Centre in suburban Kunming city of China’s Yunnan province said they smelt a pungent gas Monday night, Xinhua reported quoting a district … Read : Suspected toxic gas leak affects 9 detenus in China.

‘My son should not be treated as criminal’: Utsav’s father

VARANASI – S.K. Sharma, father of the youth who Tuesday attacked murdered teenager Aarushi Talwar’s father Rajesh Talwar outside a court in Ghaziabad, has said his son “should not be treated as a criminal, considering his mental condition”.

“My son is suffering from depression since December 2007… Taking this into account, he should not be … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘My son should not be treated as criminal’: Utsav’s father.

Talwar family shaken by the attack: Lawyer

NEW DELHI – The Talwar family is extremely shaken after the attack on Rajesh Talwar, the father of murdered teenager Aarushi, by a man outside a Ghaziabad court Tuesday. A seriously injured Talwar was rushed to Apollo Hospital, their lawyer said.

The family’s lawyer Rebecca John, who was accompanying the Talwar couple, also expressed concern … Read : Talwar family shaken by the attack: Lawyer.

Vigilante justice haunts Pakistani women, says daily

ISLAMABAD – Vigilante justice is haunting women in Pakistan, a leading daily said Tuesday adding: “Aside from violating human rights, these are blatantly extrajudicial actions that cannot go unpunished in any society that claims to value law and order.”

An editorial in the Dawn said Saima, 20, was electrocuted to death in Bahawalpur district on … Read more »»».

Talwar out of danger, assailant questioned: Police

GHAZIABAD – Rajesh Talwar, the father of murdered teen Aarushi who was attacked outside a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court here Tuesday, “is out of danger” and the assailant is being questioned in the matter, police said.

“Talwar was hospitalised and is out of danger. The attacker has been identified as Utsav Sharma … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Talwar out of danger, assailant questioned: Police.

Case against Facebook for hosting ‘I hate Gandhi’ group

LUCKNOW – A case was registered here against social networking site Facebook and others for hosting a group called ‘I hate Gandhi’ and posting offensive remarks against Mahatma Gandhi, police said.

The first information report (FIR) was filed by Indian Police Service officer Amitabh Thakur at Gomti Nagar police station Monday.
The complaint also names … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Case against Facebook for hosting ‘I hate Gandhi’ group.

Mob injures three cops in Uttar Pradesh

SONBHADRA – At least three policemen were injured here after a mob, protesting the death of a local youth, turned violent and fought pitched battles with the police, officials said Tuesday.

The incident took place late Monday in Kon town of Sonbhadra district, where the locals were protesting the death of a 30-year-old man Ajai …. Original article  : Mob injures three cops in Uttar Pradesh.

Kerala announces judicial probe into Sabarimala stampede

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala government Tuesday announced a judicial inquiry into the Sabarimala stampede Jan 14. A Kerala High Court judge will look into the tragedy that left 102 pilgrims dead.

A cabinet meeting held here Tuesday cleared the demand for a judicial probe into the stampede which occurred shortly after what people believe is …. Source article  : Kerala announces judicial probe into Sabarimala stampede.

Mirchpur violence: Jat protest enters 11th day

JIND – Demonstrations by the Jat community to demand a probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) into last year’s Mirchpur caste violence entered its 11th day Tuesday in this Haryana district, which remained cut off from the rest of the state for the third consecutive day.

Protestors, including scores of women, blocked all … Original article on : Mirchpur violence: Jat protest enters 11th day.

Same man attacked Talwar, S.P.S. Rathore

CHANDIGARH/GHAZIABAD – The man who attacked Rajesh Talwar, father of murdered teen Aarushi Talwar, outside a Ghaziabad court Tuesday has been identified as Utsav Sharma, who had earlier assaulted Haryana’s tainted former police chief S.P.S. Rathore, sources said.

Talwar was attacked with a cleaver outside the special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in broad … Original article on : Same man attacked Talwar, S.P.S. Rathore.

Supreme Court modifies Graham Staines murder verdict

NEW DELHI – Supreme Court Tuesday modified a portion of its judgment in the Graham Staines murder case as, many pointed out, by implication it justified the killings citing the Australian missionary’s religious activities.

The apex court bench of Justice P. Sathasivam and Justice B.S. Chauhan, in a suo motu order modifying the judgment, said …. Source  : Supreme Court modifies Graham Staines murder verdict.

Rajesh Talwar attacked with cleaver outside court (Second Lead)

GHAZIABAD – Rajesh Talwar, the father of murdered teen Aarushi, was Tuesday seriously injured after an unidentified man attacked him with a sharp-edged cleaver outside the special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in full view of hundreds of people.

Talwar could be seen holding his head in pain as blood flowed out. The place …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rajesh Talwar injured after attack outside court

GHAZIABAD – Rajesh Talwar, father of murdered teenager Aarushi Talwar, was Tuesday attacked outside a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court. Talwar could be seen holding his head in pain as blood flowed out.

A sharp-edged cleaver was seen on the ground as television cameras caught details of the assault and security personnel grabbed …. Source article  : Rajesh Talwar injured after attack outside court.

Rajesh Talwar attacked in Ghaziabad court

GHAZIABAD – Rajesh Talwar, father of murdered teenager Aarushi Talwar, was Tuesday attacked in a court here after he filed a protest petition in the case.

Talwar could be seen holding his head in pain as blood flowed out.
… Read more >>.

2,900 kg of cocaine seized in Panama

Panama City, Jan 25 (IANS/EFE) Panamanian police and military units confiscated over 2,900 kg of cocaine in two separate operations over the weekend, authorities said here Monday.

More than 100 bales containing 2,625 kg of the drug were found on a stretch of the Uvero river near the Caribbean coast in Colon province, the deputy …. Source  : 2,900 kg of cocaine seized in Panama.

Beware of attack tool kits from malicious websites: Symantec

BANGALORE – The latest threat to internet users from hackers is tool kits from malicious websites that attack computers with software programmes, says global security solutions provider Symantec Corporation. Its global intelligence network has detected 240,000 attack tool kits across 200 countries.

“Attack tool kits are software programmes that infect networked computers when unsuspecting users …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian-American engineer gets 32 years for selling secrets to China

WASHINGTON – Weeks after China conducted a flight test of its new J-20 stealth fighter, a US court has sentenced a former Indian American B-2 stealth bomber engineer to 32 years for selling military secrets to China.

Mumbai-born Noshir Gowadia, 66, who has been in custody without bail since his 2005 arrest, showed no emotion …. Source article  : Indian-American engineer gets 32 years for selling secrets to China.

Husband charged with Sikh woman’s murder in Canada

TORONTO – An Indo-Canadian man is among three people arrested for the murder of his wife in the Vancouver suburb of Surrey in 2007.

Amanpreet Kaur Bahia, 33, was killed in her home in February 2007. The body of the mother of three, including a one-year-old infant, was found by her father-in-law Didar Singh …. Read the original article  : Husband charged with Sikh woman’s murder in Canada.

Husband of Indian origin woman burned alive found in Fiji

WELLINGTON – The husband of a young Indian-Fijian woman who was burnt alive along a New Zealand country roadside has been found in Fiji, along with their four-year-old son, police said Tuesday.

The man, identified by a New Zealand newspaper as Daniel Sharma, a courier driver, had been described by New Zealand police as a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Husband of Indian origin woman burned alive found in Fiji.

Arizona shooting accused pleads not guilty

LOS ANGELES – Jared Lee Loughner, who is accused of shooting Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords earlier this month, pleaded not guilty Monday on three federal counts related to the deadly attack.

An attorney for the 22-year-old college dropout asked the court in Phoenix, Arizona to enter a not-guilty plea on behalf of her client. A further …. Original source  : Arizona shooting accused pleads not guilty.

Burning of Malegaon official to be probed; compensation announced

MUMBAI – Mahrashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has announced a Rs.25 lakh compensation for the family of Malegoan additional district collector Yeshwant Sonawane, who was burnt alive by the oil mafia while on a raid Tuesday.

The chief minister has also ordered a probe into the gruesome killing.
The chief minister Tuesday night also announced … Original source on Gaea Times at : Burning of Malegaon official to be probed; compensation announced.

New Zealand police in Fiji for Indian origin woman’s death case

SUVA – New Zealand police have arrived in Fiji as part of a homicide inquiry into the death of a south Auckland resident Indian-origin woman, who was burned alive last week.

Ranjeeta Sharma, 28, was burned to death near the coal mining town of Huntly in New Zealand last Thursday. Her body was found [..] Read the original article: here.

Malaysian state to whip pot-bellied cops into shape

KUALA LUMPUR – Fat police officers in Malaysia’s central state of Pahang will soon be forced to attend daily exercise sessions in response to criticisms that many in the force were out of shape, a newspaper reported Wednesday.

“I am aware that there are personnel in the force who are pot-bellied and overweight,” said state …. Read the original article  : Malaysian state to whip pot-bellied cops into shape.

Italian TV host’s body stolen from grave

Novara, Jan 26 (IANS/AKI) The body of Mike Bongiorno, a US-born Italian television host who died in 2009 has been stolen from its grave near the northern city of Milan, Italian media said Tuesday, citing police.

Bongiorno’s coffin was removed overnight from his family’s crypt in Dagnente, in the province of Novara. An old man … Read more >>>.

Mexican mayor vows to continue her work despite attacks

Morelia (Mexico), Jan 26 (IANS/EFE) The mayor of Tiquicheo, a city in the Mexican state of Michoacan, used the one-year anniversary of the latest of three attacks on her to show the public her wounds and vowed to continue doing her job.

Maria Santos Gorrostieta showed photographs of the gunshot wounds she sustained to her …. Read the original article  : Mexican mayor vows to continue her work despite attacks.

Cholera claimed 4,000 lives in Haiti

Port-au-Prince, Jan 26 (IANS/EFE) More than 3,900 Haitians have died of cholera since the outbreak of the disease in mid-October, the country’s health officials has said.

The disease has spread across all 10 provinces of Haiti, infecting 199,497 people. Of the 112,656 patients hospitalised, 110,031 have been successfully treated.
Artibonite, the northern province, accounts for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cholera claimed 4,000 lives in Haiti.

Woman found murdered in Gurgaon home

GURGAON – A 28-year-old woman was found murdered in her house in Gurgaon’s Saraswati Vihar area Tuesday evening, police said.

Shweta Singh, the victim, had married just last year and police said the murder looked like the work of professional killers. She was found dead at around 7 p.m.
“Shweta was attacked by a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Woman found murdered in Gurgaon home.

Man shot dead, robbed of Rs.3 lakh

AGRA – A man was Tuesday shot dead in Uttar Pradesh’s Fatehabad town by unidentified masked men on a motorcycle who snatched away his bag containing Rs.3 lakh, police said.

Dare Lal, a 42-year-old dairy owner in Fatehabad, 20 km from Agra, was shot dead while he was returning on his cycle from the bank … Read more >>>.

Woman killed in Delhi factory fire

NEW DELHI – A 25-year-old woman was burnt to death while 14 people were critically injured when a major fire broke out in a cloth factory in south Delhi Tuesday evening, police and fire brigade officials said.

The fire started at 5 p.m. on the top floor of a four-storey building in Tughlakabad Extension area …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Woman killed in Delhi factory fire.

Games graft: Mahendroo to appear before CBI Jan 27

NEW DELHI – A Delhi court Tuesday directed Sanjay Mahendroo, a close aide of former Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) chairman Suresh Kalmadi, to appear before the CBI Jan 27 over alleged financial lapses during the Queen’s Baton Relay (QBR) in London last year.

He had offered to surrender in the case filed …. Read the original article  : Games graft: Mahendroo to appear before CBI Jan 27.

Ex-IAS officer of Orissa gets three-year jail for graft

BHUBANESWAR – A retired Indian Administrative Service officer was Tuesday sentenced to three years’ imprisonment by a court here in a corruption case, a lawyer said.

Sanjeeb Kumar Ray, who worked in different posts including collector of Boudh district and vice chairmen of the Cuttack Development Authority at Cuttack, 26 km from here, was …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ex-IAS officer of Orissa gets three-year jail for graft.

IPS officer’s widow oppose Sen’s bail plea

BILASPUR – The widow of an Indian Police Service officer, killed by the Maoists, Tuesday sought to oppose the bail plea of rights activist Binayak Sen in the Chhattisgarh High Court and to present evidence to prove his links with the rebels. The court set Feb 9 as the next date of hearing.

Ranjana Choubey, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : IPS officer’s widow oppose Sen’s bail plea.

Case against daughter-in-law unfair, says Binayak Sen’s mother

KOLKATA – Jailed rights activist Binayak Sen’s mother Tuesday termed as “unfair” the police case against his wife Ilina for allegedly not informing the security forces about the participation of foreigners in a conference she had organised in Maharashtra. She also said she was confident her son would be out of jail soon.

“It is … Original article on : Case against daughter-in-law unfair, says Binayak Sen’s mother.

CBI again questions Niira Radia in 2G scam

NEW DELHI – As part of its probe into the 2G spectrum allocation scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Tuesday again questioned corporate lobbyist Niira Radia, whose tapped conversations with ministers, journalists and industrialists were recorded by the Income Tax department.

Sources in the CBI said Radia was grilled at the agency headquarters in … Read : CBI again questions Niira Radia in 2G scam.

Putin announces compensation worth $100,000 for blast victims

Moscow, Jan 25 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Families of those killed in a deadly terrorist attack at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport Monday will receive three million rubles ($100,000) each as compensation from the government, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said Tuesday.

At least 35 people died and up to 180 were injured when a suicide bomber detonated an … Original source on Gaea Times at : Putin announces compensation worth $100,000 for blast victims.

Four nabbed for setting on fire raiding senior officer (Third Lead)

MALEGAON – Maharashtra Police Tuesday arrested four people in connection with the gruesome incident when a senior district administration official was doused with petrol and kerosene and burnt to death while he was raiding a petrol mafia warehouse here.

The main suspect, a known history-sheeter Popat Shinde, has sustained over 50 percent burn injuries when … Read more »»».

Games graft: Mahendroo to appear before CBI Feb 27

NEW DELHI – A Delhi court Tuesday asked former Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) official Sanjay Mahendroo to appear before the CBI Feb 27, after he offered to surrender in the second case against him over alleged financial lapses during the Queens Baton Relay (QBR) in London last year.

“Let applicant (Mahendroo) be … Read more : Games graft: Mahendroo to appear before CBI Feb 27.

CARE India winds up tsunami relief programmes

CHENNAI – Non-governmental organisation (NGO) CARE India Tuesday formally wound up its three phased tsunami relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction programme for the victims of the 2004 calamity.

The organisation has helped around 20,000 families to rebuild their lives devastated by the tsunami that hit the coasts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Pondicherry and Andaman … Read more >>>.

70-year-old man under debt jumps to death

NEW DELHI – Depressed over not being able to repay his bank loan, a 70-year-old man allegedly jumped to death in West Patel Nagar in central Delhi Tuesday morning, police said.

Satish Anand jumped from the fourth floor of his house around 10.30 a.m.
“He was due to repay some bank loans and was … Read more »».

Five Bangladeshi nationals held for robbery

NEW DELHI – Five Bangladeshi nationals have been arrested for committing a robbery in east Delhi, police said Tuesday.

Those arrested were identified as Abu Jalil, Alamgir, Abbu Said, Muneer and Alamgir, all nationals of Bangladesh. They were arrested near Anand Vihar railway station Monday night.
They were involved in a robbery in Dayanand Vihar … Read : Five Bangladeshi nationals held for robbery.

Ragging drives student to suicide in Bihar

PATNA – A first year medical college student hanged himself at his private lodge here after allegedly being harassed by seniors, his family said Thursday.

Sunny Kumar, a student of Bihar’s Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), committed suicide late Wednesday after being ragged by seniors.
Sunny, in his early 20s, was a resident …. Source  : Ragging drives student to suicide in Bihar.

Millions of flood-hit Pakistanis struggle for food

ISLAMABAD – Millions of Pakistanis hit by last year’s devastating floods are “still facing flood water, shivering in temporary shelters and struggling to find food”, said a report of an international NGO.

The Oxfam report, “Six months into the floods”, said that though the aid effort had reached millions, it struggled to meet the huge …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sonawane’s burning: Maharashtra government employees on strike

MUMBAI/MANMAD – Lakhs of government employees across Maharashtra Thursday went on a strike and residents of Manmad city observed a total shutdown to protest the burning of Nashik additional collector Yashwant Sonawane, officials said.

“We strongly demand protection of government officials to prevent such untoward incidents in future. Sonawane was on duty while he was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sonawane’s burning: Maharashtra government employees on strike.

Two booked for driving government employee to suicide

LUCKNOW – Two officials who harassed a government employee here have been booked for driving him to commit suicide, police said Thursday.

Sub-divisional magistrate Sunil Chaudhary and ‘tehsildar’ J.P. Chauhan were placed under suspension Wednesday night on the directives of the state government for their alleged role in the suicide of junior revenue official …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two booked for driving government employee to suicide.

Thundersnow Disables City Life

NEW YORK, NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Tumultuous weather conditions have gripped the city of New York which has become already half-paralyzed due to the frequent thundersnow that has literally brought the life of the region to a stand still. On Wednesday heavy snow storm again caused a massive disruption to the region which continued til …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Thundersnow Disables City Life.

Were Kerala whistleblower, two sons murdered?

PALAKKAD – Three days after a former official of Malabar Cements and his two sons were found hanging in their home, the initial theory of suicide was giving way to the possibility of murder with relatives saying he had exposed corrupt deals in the state-owned firm.

V. Saseendran, 46, was the company secretary cum finance … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Were Kerala whistleblower, two sons murdered?.

India proposes five point plan to tackle piracy off Somalia

UNITED NATIONS – India has proposed a five point plan to strengthen international cooperation, including tracking the trail of ransom money, to tackle the problem of piracy off the coast of Somalia.

“A comprehensive approach to tackle the problem has to be found to address this serious issue,” India’s Permanent Representative to UN Hardeep Singh … Original article on : India proposes five point plan to tackle piracy off Somalia.

Biggest date-rape drug seizure by Canada

TORONTO – Canadian police have made the biggest date rape drug seizure in the country’s history with the arrest of five Chinese smugglers.

Making the announcement in Vancouver Wednesday, police said they have seized over 1,000 kg of the date rape drug ketamine, valued at $15 million, from a container that came from Hong Kong.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sonawane’s burning: Maharashtra raids oil, milk adulterators

MUMBAI – The Maharashtra government carried out simultaneous raids on oil and milk adulterators and the sand mafia across the state Thursday, two days after Nashik Additional Collector Yeshwant Sonawane was allegedly burnt alive by petrol robbers, an official said.

The raids have been initiated by various departments along with police protection and are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sonawane’s burning: Maharashtra raids oil, milk adulterators.

School principal sets herself afire

JAUNPUR – A school principal here set herself afire outside the home of the school manager who she claimed had been sexually harassing her, police said Thursday. The woman’s condition was described as “extremly serious”.

The incident took place in Shahganj locality of Jaunpur, about 250 km from the state capital Lucknow.
In a …. Original source  : School principal sets herself afire.

Mirchpur violence: Dalits leave village fearing Jat threat

MIRCHPUR – Nearly a dozen Dalit families have left this village in the last 15 days as last year’s violence in Mirchpur has come back to haunt them. It was here that a 70-year-old and his physically-challenged daughter were killed in an attack by the dominant Jat community.

The fear of violence from Jats, who [..] Read the original article: here.

Arizona shooter studied assassins on internet before attack

NEW YORK – The 22-year-old man, accused of shooting US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffordsm, studied about several assassins and legal consequences on internet before opening fire at a supermarket in Arizona, an official has said.

Jared L. Loughner, who pleaded not guilty Monday to three counts of attempted murder in connection with shooting at a Tucson … Read : Arizona shooter studied assassins on internet before attack.

Interpol issues global alert for Ben Ali

PARIS/TUNIS – The international police organisation Interpol said it has issued a global alert for the arrest of Tunisia’s ousted President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali and his six relatives.

“As stated by Tunisian authorities in media reports today, Ben Ali and some of his family members are wanted in Tunisia on charges of alleged property …. Original article  : Interpol issues global alert for Ben Ali.

20 killed in Colombia mine blast

Bogota, Jan 27 (IANS/EFE) At least 20 miners were killed and six injured in a gas explosion inside a coal mine in Colombia, an official said.

The blast occurred Wednesday at the La Preciosa mine in the northeastern town of Sardinata, Colombia’s Ingeominas regulatory agency official, Marisa Fernandez, said.
While four bodies were recovered, …. Original article  : 20 killed in Colombia mine blast.

Facebook founder’s fan page hacked

SAN FRANCISCO – The fan page of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has been hacked by a mystery invader who posted a message decrying the company’s attempts to cash in on its hugely successful site.

Facebook declined to comment on the embarrassing security snafu, but did take down the compromised page.
“Let the hacking begin: If …. Source  : Facebook founder’s fan page hacked.

Osbourne campaigns to stop lesbians from being raped

LONDON – Singer Kelly Osbourne will lead a campaign to protect lesbians in South Africa from an increasing number of brutal sex attacks.

The singer highlighted the practice of “corrective rape” – in which homosexual females are raped in a bid to “cure” their sexual preferences, reports contactmusic.com.
“Please sign this petition!” Osbourne posted on …. Read the original article  : Osbourne campaigns to stop lesbians from being raped.

Man accidentally shoots wife dead

NEW DELHI – A man accidentally shot dead his 32-year-old wife in central Delhi Wednesday after she asked him to prove he knew how to use a rifle, police said.

“The incident was reported at 10.30 a.m. and the victim has been identified as Sunita Mishra. We have arrested her husband Pappu,” said a senior … Read more : Man accidentally shoots wife dead.

30 chained people rescued from brick kiln in Bangladesh

DHAKA – At least 30 people, including children, were found tied up with chains at a brick-kiln Wednesday evening on the outskirts of the Bangladesh capital city, a media report said.

The elite Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) rescued the people from Savar area.
RAB media wing director M. Sohael confirmed over phone that 30 chained … Original article on : 30 chained people rescued from brick kiln in Bangladesh.

Controversial cop named for medal, locals protest

KANPUR – Locals and activists took to the streets here to protest the award of the President’s Police Medal to the city’s former Deputy Inspector General of Police Prem Prakash, accused of shielding the rapist of an 11-year-old girl last year.

“DIG Prem Prakash was squarely responsible for shielding the owners of Gyansthali School, where … Read more >>.

Three kids drown in uncovered Delhi drains

NEW DELHI – Three children died after falling in uncovered drains in two incidents here Wednesday, police said.

Mohammad Imran, 12, died after falling in an uncovered sewage drain while playing cricket around 2.30 p.m. in Jamia Nagar.
The second incident took place at Sector 22 in Dwarka.
Seven-year-old Karan and his 10-year-old sister … Original article on : Three kids drown in uncovered Delhi drains.

62 convicted in fodder scam, 23 jailed

RANCHI – A special CBI court here Friday convicted 62 people, including 27 government officials, in the 1996 multi-million fodder scam and 23 of them were sentenced to rigorous imprisonment ranging from three to five years.

Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) judge R.R. Tripathy pronounced the judgment in the case related to fraudulent withdrawal …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nepali held with drugs in Uttar Pradesh

BAHRAICH – A Nepali national involved in drug peddling was arrested here with cannabis worth over Rs.10 lakh, police said Friday.

Sharif Manihar, around 35, was nabbed Thursday night in Nawabganj area.
“He was arrested while he was going to hand over an illegal consignment to his clients in Gorakhpur,” police inspector Mohd. Naseem told …. Read the original article  : Nepali held with drugs in Uttar Pradesh.

Drugs in bath-towel shipment from India seized

TORONTO – After trying to smuggle drugs into Canada through cricket bats, balls, marble slabs, and mugs from India, police have now seized ephedrine hidden in a shipment of bath towel from India.

Ephedrine is used in the production of crystal meth.
The seizure announced Thursday by police is part of the Iran-linked international ring … Read : Drugs in bath-towel shipment from India seized.

Dharmapuri bus burning: Apex court stays execution of three

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday stayed the execution of three people who were awarded death sentence in the 2000 Dharmapuri bus burning case where three students of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University were charred to death in the wake of an agitation by AIADMK activists.

In February 2000, three agriculture university girl students were … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dharmapuri bus burning: Apex court stays execution of three.

Trader found dead below west Delhi flyover

NEW DELHI – A steel trader was found dead with injury marks under the Naraina flyover in west Delhi, police said Friday.

Praveen Singh, 40, was found by his family late Thursday.
“He did not return home till late Thursday from his shop in Naraina. His family members went looking for him at his shop … Read more >>.

One killed, three trapped in Ahmedabad building collapse

AHMEDABAD – One person was killed and three people were trapped when a five-storey newly-constructed building here collapsed Friday morning, leading to the partial collapse of two adjoining buildings also, fire officials said. Over a dozen people were injured in the accident.

The five-storey building, called ‘President’, was apparently constructed illegally in Kalupur area of …. Source  : One killed, three trapped in Ahmedabad building collapse.

Two students killed as truck rams into school bus

MUZAFFARNAGAR – Two students were killed and 12 injured when a speeding truck crashed into their school bus here Friday, police said.

The accident took place in Jhijhana area, when the speeding truck spun out of control and collided head-on with the bus of the Laurels Convent School (LCS).
“While two boys aged around 14 … Read more »»».

Tax officials attacked during raid in Punjab

LUDHIANA – Two excise and sale tax officials were attacked by the “godown mafia” while conducting raids at a railway warehouse here to check tax evasion and fake billing, police said Friday.

The two officials and their driver were mercilessly beaten up with batons by around 15 people when they were conducting a raid at …. Source article  : Tax officials attacked during raid in Punjab.

Lahore incident: US consulate vehicle number plate found fake

LAHORE – The number plate of the US consulate vehicle that knocked down and killed a motorcyclist as it sped to help an American employee who had shot dead two youths in Lahore has been found to be fake, a probe has revealed.

The US consulate vehicle that killed motorcyclist Abdur Rehman carried a fake …. Original article  : Lahore incident: US consulate vehicle number plate found fake.

219 migrants rescued from truck in Mexico

San Cristobal de las Casas (Mexico), Jan 28 (IANS/EFE) As many as 219 undocumented immigrants were found inside a trailer in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas when the vehicle passed through a checkpoint equipped with an X-ray machine, the state government said.

During the inspection, the 219 immigrants inside the trailer called for help, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Utsav’s parents put up defence for son

GHAZIABAD – Stressing that their son has a serious mental disorder, the Varanasi-based parents of Utsav Sharma, who attacked murdered teenager Aarushi’s father Rajesh Talwar outside a court here earlier this week, are here to help mount a defence for their son.

When asked about her son’s act, Utsav’s mother Indira Sharma told IANS: “It …. Read the original article  : Utsav’s parents put up defence for son.

2 priests slain in Colombian capital

Bogota, Jan 28 (IANS/EFE) Two Catholic priests were fatally shot Thursday inside a car in a suburb of the Colombian capital, police said.

Officers went to the scene after residents of the Dindalito neighbourhood of Ciudad Kennedy reported hearing gunshots, police Col. Jose Baquero said.
Witnesses told cops they saw a man exit the car … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 2 priests slain in Colombian capital.

Building collapses in Ahmedabad, several trapped

AHMEDABAD – Several people were trapped when a five-storey under-construction structure collapsed on the adjacent residential building here Friday morning, fire officials said.

The under-construction building collapsed in Kalupur area of the densely populated old walled city and its debris brought down an old building adjoining it.
According to witnesses, at least 15 people are …. Read the original article  : Building collapses in Ahmedabad, several trapped.

‘Reporter’ held for theft

NEW DELHI – A man, claiming to be a reporter for a news channel, was arrested for stealing a vehicle, police said Thursday. He also has two charges of murder against him.

Amit, 26, claimed he worked for news channel ‘Khabar Aap Tak’.
Amit, who was earlier arrested in two murder cases, was held … Read more >>.

All FIRs on Delhi Police website from Feb 1

NEW DELHI – Implementing the directions of Delhi High Court, the Delhi Police would upload all the new First Information Reports (FIRs) registered on their official website – www.delhipolice.nic.in – from Feb 1.

Anybody can download the same from the website while an accused can also get a copy from the police station by … Original article on : All FIRs on Delhi Police website from Feb 1.

Two brothers hacked to death by sibling

ROHTAK – A dispute over ancestral property Thursday claimed the lives of two brothers who were hacked to death by their elder sibling and his son in this Haryana district, police said.

Police have registered a case of murder against father-son duo Karamveer and Sunil, who are both absconding after the incident in Giravar village.
…. Read the original article  : here.

RTI activist attacked

SONBHADRA – A Right to Information activist was attacked by three people including a government official in this Uttar Pradesh district, police said Thursday.

A case was filed against the three, but police say they suspect that the activist could have named the government official due to some pesonal enmity.
Amarnath Pandey, aged around 50, …. Read the original article  : RTI activist attacked.

Doctor suspended for hiding evidence in rape-murder of Dalit teen

LUCKNOW – A government doctor was suspended Thursday for hiding evidence in the autopsy of a 17-year-old Dalit girl who was allegedly raped and murdered. Four people have been arrested for the rape and murder, police said.

The girls body was recovered late Tuesday in Chinhat area and a post-mortem examination was conducted by doctor …. Original source  : Doctor suspended for hiding evidence in rape-murder of Dalit teen.

Abandoned by children, old woman seeks to be buried alive

HYDERABAD – In a shocking incident, an old woman who was abandoned by her daughters after taking away her property, approached authorities in Andhra Pradesh pleading that she be buried alive.

Devudamma, who claims to be a freedom fighter, moved a petition before Visakhapatnam district collector, urging him to bury her alive.
The 110-year-old woman, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Abandoned by children, old woman seeks to be buried alive.

School van catches fire, no casualties

New Delhi, (IANS) A van used to ferry school children caught fire in central Delhi on Thursday morning, fire officials said. There were no casualties.

The accident took place in front of Liberty Cinema hall in Karol Bagh area of central Delhi around 8 a.m. when the driver was returning after dropping the children …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nathan Woods Dies In Crash

TAFT (GaeaTimes.com)- Two-time WORCS Champion Nathan Woods succumbed to his injuries following an accident at the Honolulu Hills Raceway in the city of Taft in California. The much-acclaimed bike racer was part of a practice session for the current season of the World Off-Road Championship Series when tragedy stuck as he went on to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nathan Woods Dies In Crash.

CBI files FIR in Adarsh scam

MUMBAI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Saturday filed a first information report (FIR) in the controversial Adarsh Housing Society scam naming among others some retired defence officials.

The FIR has named certain promoters of the society besides retired defence officials and members of the society, an official said, but declined to reveal the …. Original article  : CBI files FIR in Adarsh scam.

CBI files chargesheet in Adarsh case

MUMBAI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Saturday lodged a first information report in the controversial Adarsh Housing Society scam, an official said.

The FIR has named certain promoters of the society besides retired defence officials and members of the society. However, the official declined to reveal the details.
The development comes in the …. Source article  : CBI files chargesheet in Adarsh case.

Christa McAuliffe Remembered

CONCORD (GaeaTimes.com)- For Christa McAuliffe, who was a teacher at the Concord High School, joining the group of six astronauts on their space mission aboard space shuttle Challenger was the ultimate dream come true. However, the schoolteacher’s dream of earning recognition as the first ordinary citizen on space, soon turned into a nightmare when …. Original source  : Christa McAuliffe Remembered.

Cash controversy: Karmapa quizzed, misses prayer meeting

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan religious leader Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje has been questioned by the Himachal Pradesh police and other central government agencies over the recovery of currency worth nearly Rs.7 crore from the monastery. Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal said Saturday he will take up the issue with the prime minister.

The Karmapa, police sources … Read more : Cash controversy: Karmapa quizzed, misses prayer meeting.

College security supervisor booked for molesting student

MOHALI – The security supervisor of a law college here has been booked for molesting a first year student, police said Saturday.

Amandeep Singh, in his late 30s, is the security supervisor of Army Institute of Law. The victim, a resident of Gurgaon, was staying at the college’s hostel.
“The girl says she had gone …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : College security supervisor booked for molesting student.

Tribal villagers help nab kidnappers in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Residents of a tribal hamlet in Orissa helped police rescue a man within a few hours after his abduction, an official said Saturday.

Pramod Kumar Sahu, an executive of a private educational institution, was abducted while he was taking a walk in the info-city area of state capital Bhubaneswar Friday morning.
The abductors’ … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tribal villagers help nab kidnappers in Orissa.

Cash controversy: Karmapa questioned, misses prayer meeting

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan religious leader Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje has been questioned by the Himachal Pradesh police and other central government agencies with his office in the middle of a controversy following the recovery of foreign and Indian currency worth nearly Rs.70 million (Rs.7 crore) in the last two days.

The Karmapa, police sources said, …. Original article  : Cash controversy: Karmapa questioned, misses prayer meeting.

Three die of gas leak in Uttar Pradesh

HARDOI – Three people, including a woman, died and two others were hospitalised following a gas leak at a chemical factory here, an official said Saturday.

The gas leakage from Amit Hetro Chem factory in Sandila town is believed to have taken place early Saturday.
“All the three, who died following the gas leakage, were …. Read the original article  : here.

Farmer immolates self to protest land acquisition

LUCKNOW – A farmer in Uttar Pradesh’s Mahoba district set himself on fire, protesting the acquisition of his agricultural land for an irrigation project and demanding higher compensation for the same, officials said Saturday.

Babbu Kushwaha, a resident of Jhir village, set himself ablaze Friday and was rushed to the Jhansi Medical College. He succumbed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gold burglar targeting South Asians gets 46 months

WASHINGTON – The leader of a gang of picky New York City burglars, who targeted the homes of Indian and South Asian residents around Washington for their gold jewellery has been sentenced to 46 months in federal prison.

Dagoberto Soto Ramirez, 28, and his wife, Melinda M. Soto, 34, of Queens, admitted that they travelled … Read more : Gold burglar targeting South Asians gets 46 months.

Cattle baron slain in Mexico

Monterrey (Mexico), Jan 29 (IANS/EFE) A Mexican cattle baron was found slain Friday a few hours after his abduction in suburban Monterrey, an official said.

The body of the 74-year-old Arturo B. de la Garza was dumped near the town of China on the highway linking Monterrey, the state capital, with the border city of …. Original article  : Cattle baron slain in Mexico.

18 acquitted in Kandhamal riot cases

BHUBANESWAR – A fast track court in Orissa acquitted 18 people in two cases of rioting in the Kandhamal district in 2008, a lawyer said Saturday.

While 10 people were booked for burning the house of Sramika Digal, eight people were booked for torching John Nayak’s house. Both the incidents took place at Pipudidei village [..] Read the original article: here.

Slain Indian-origin woman’s husband faces murder charge

WELLINGTON – The husband of an Indian-origin woman, who was burned to death in New Zealand last week, has been charged with killing his wife and was presented before a court Saturday, Radio New Zealand reported.

Twentynine-year-old Diwesh Sharma, a postal worker from Manukau, is accused of killing his wife Ranjeeta, 28.
Diwesh’s wife was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Slain Indian-origin woman’s husband faces murder charge.

Cyclone Wilma lashes New Zealand, brings floods, landslides

WELLINGTON – Tropical cyclone Wilma lashed the top of New Zealand early Saturday, bringing widespread flooding and landslides which cut highways and power blackouts.

The fire service in Auckland, the country’s largest city, reported more than 400 emergency calls in the 11 hours to dawn, including one after a cliffside house collapsed onto a beach …. Source article  : Cyclone Wilma lashes New Zealand, brings floods, landslides.

Two held for duping girls via matrimonial ads

NEW DELHI – Two men were arrested in Delhi for duping money from girls on the pretext of marriage after contacting them through matrimonial advertisements, police said.

Ashish Shankar, 31, was arrested for taking Rs. 3.49 lakh from a girl for making arrangements for their marriage after both came in contact through a matrimonial advertisement … Read more : Two held for duping girls via matrimonial ads.

Two allege beating by cop at police station

NEW DELHI – Two youth who had gone to their local police station in north Delhi after a dispute alleged they were beaten up by the additional station house officer. Police dismissed the claim.

Deepak and his brother Karan have alleged that Kunwar Singh Yadav of Shalimar Bagh police station was under the influence of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two allege beating by cop at police station.

Truck rams 10 vehicles, eight people killed

HYDERABAD – In a ghastly accident, a truck spun out of control and hit 10 vehicles, crushing eight people to death at Nagole on the outskirts of Hyderabad Friday night, police said.

The truck hit a van, an auto-rickshaw and eight two-wheelers. Twenty people were injured in the accident.
The injured were admitted to various … Read more : Truck rams 10 vehicles, eight people killed.

Two killed, including toddler, in accidents

NEW DELHI – Two people, including a toddler, were crushed to death by speeding trucks in different incidents in the capital, police said Friday.

A 45-year-old motorcyclist was hit by a truck in Sarojini Nagar in south Delhi at around 10 a.m.
Rajesh was a resident of Kidwai Nagar. He was rushed to a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two killed, including toddler, in accidents.

Rape victim’s family alleges pressure by minister’s kin

LUCKNOW/ALLAHABAD – An Uttar Pradesh minister has been accused of shielding his nephew who has been charged with pressuring a minor girl to compromise with a person, who with his two friends, had allegedly raped her. However, police have denied the allegations made by the girls family.

According to the victims father, a resident of … Original article on : Rape victim’s family alleges pressure by minister’s kin.

Dhaka may arrest top Islamist leader for war crimes

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s top Islamist leader Ghulam Azam, who chaired the formation of the militia that allegedly killed thousands of unarmed civilians four decades ago, may be arrested on charges of committing “war crimes”, a media report said.

Mohammad Abdul Hannan Khan, the senior-most member of the International War Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh, said “some …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Dhaka may arrest top Islamist leader for war crimes.

Karmapa asked 50 questions, denies allegations

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan religious leader, the Karmapa, was asked a set of 50 questions by police Sunday about nearly Rs.70 million worth of unaccounted foreign and Indian currency being found in his monastery. Denying all allegations, he said the money was given by devotees all over the world.

A police team, led by Una’a Additional … Original article on : Karmapa asked 50 questions, denies allegations.

Ashok Chavan named as accused in Adarsh scam

MUMBAI – In an embarrassment to Maharashtra’s ruling Democratic Front government, former chief minister Ashok Chavan has been named as one of the 13 accused in the FIR filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Adarsh Co-operative Housing Society scam, top sources in the CBI said here Sunday.

Besides Chavan, the first …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

CBI raids offices, residences of Adarsh promoters

MUMBAI – A day after filing its first FIR in the Adarsh Co-operative Housing Society scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Sunday conducted raids at the residences and offices of three of its promoters, an official said.

CBI officials raided residences and offices of promoters M.M. Wangchu, Kanhaiyalal Gidwani and R.C. Thakur in Mumbai, … Read : CBI raids offices, residences of Adarsh promoters.

Fire in Chandigarh high court record room

CHANDIGARH – A major fire broke out in the record room of the Punjab and Haryana High Court here in the wee hours Sunday, gutting many old files, fire officials said.

Four fire tenders were pressed into service.
“We got a call at around 3.45 a.m. about a fire in the high court’s record … Read more : Fire in Chandigarh high court record room.

Karmapa cash row: Hotelier, banker held

DHARAMSALA – Dharamsala businessman and hotelier K.P. Bhardwaj, who is believed to have struck a land deal with the Karmapa’s trust, and a bank manager from Haryana have been arrested and are being questioned following the recovery of unaccounted foreign and Indian currency worth nearly Rs.70 million from the monastery.

“Bhardwaj was arrested last (Saturday) [..] Read the original article: here.

Bihar police official found dead

PATNA – A Bihar police official was found dead in mysterious circumstances in Bagaha district, the police said Sunday.

B.N. Prasad, a sub-inspector posted at Piprasi police station in Bagaha, was found dead near a field.
The district police officials refused to speak about the incident. But some policemen alleged that Prasad was murdered.
The [..] Read the original article: here.

Iran hangs dozens of drug peddlers

TEHRAN – The Iranian government has hanged dozens of drug traffickers in the first month of 2011 and vowed to pursue its anti-drug trafficking campaign. The latest one to be hanged was an Iranian-Dutch woman.

On Saturday, Iran hanged the Iranian-Dutch woman identified as Zahra Bahrami for smuggling drugs into Iran, keeping and selling …. Original source  : Iran hangs dozens of drug peddlers.

Lyngdoh, hundreds march against corruption in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Hundreds of citizens and youth, among them former chief election commissioner J.M. Lyngdoh, joined hands to march against corruption here Sunday as part of a nationwide anti-graft campaign by civil society groups.

The participants marched along Necklace Road on the banks of Hussain Sagar lake in the heart of Hyderabad. Led by Lyngdoh, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Lyngdoh, hundreds march against corruption in Hyderabad.

10 dead in Germany train collision

OSCHERSLEBEN – A collision between two trains late Saturday in northern Germany left 10 people dead and 20 seriously injured, police told DPA.

A freight train collided with a passenger train in the state of Saxony-Anhalt. The reason for the collision was not immediately known.
The wreckage of both trains was ablaze.
The passenger train … Original article on : 10 dead in Germany train collision.

Two corpses found in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Bodies of two unidentified men were found in central and east Delhi Saturday, police said.

In the first incident, body of a man, in his late 20s, carrying a fake identity card of a news channel, was found on the bank of the Yamuna river at Vikas Marg in central Delhi.
The … Original article on : Two corpses found in Delhi.

ATM guard shoots self by accident

NEW DELHI – A security guard posted outside a bank ATM died after accidentally shooting himself Saturday evening in east Delhi, police said.

Lan Je Jeen, 25, who hailed from the northeast, shot himself in the chest at Central Bank’s ATM on Vikas Marg in Laxmi Nagar area.
Around 5 p.m., a cash van … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ATM guard shoots self by accident.

Two killed in road accident

GHAZIABAD – Two people were killed and over a dozen injured when a vehicle, carrying about 20 passengers, collided head-on with a gas tanker in Ghaziabad area Saturday afternoon, police said.

Noor Jahan, 32, and Ankur Kumar, a junior engineer, were killed.
Superintendent of Police (Rural) M.M. Begh said the vehicle was going …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two killed in road accident.

Cash van robbery: Photos of driver, gunman released

NEW DELHI – Delhi Police Saturday released the photographs of the driver of a cash van and a gunman who fled with Rs.67.5 lakh a day earlier. The duo have a bounty of Rs.50,000 each on their head. The cash van was recovered in Faridabad Saturday.

“We have released the photographs of the two men, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cash van robbery: Photos of driver, gunman released.

Newly recruited servent drugs employer, decamps with jewellery

NEW DELHI – A newly-recruited servant allegedly drugged his employer and his wife in west Delhi and decamped with jewellery. The police are yet to reveal the exact amount of the theft.

According to the police, the theft took place Jan 27 night at M-Block in Vikaspuri area of West Delhi.
“Narendra Dogra (65), …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Newly recruited servent drugs employer, decamps with jewellery.

Alert cops catch three auto-thieves

NEW DELHI – Alert beat constables have arrested three auto-lifters in north Delhi and several stolen vehicles have been recovered, police said Saturday.

In the first incident, Anil Kumar, a resident of Sonepat in Haryana and a tempo driver, was held in Y Block in Mangolpuri area at around 12 noon and a car stolen … Original source on Gaea Times at : Alert cops catch three auto-thieves.

Soldiers, troopers arrested for molesting woman in train

ALIGARH – Six people, including army soldiers and paramilitary personnel, were arrested here Saturday for molesting a woman passenger in a train, officials said.

Two soldiers, a trooper each of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Border Security Force (BSF), an employee of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and a civilian, molested a young …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Soldiers, troopers arrested for molesting woman in train.

Three die in Uttar Pradesh gas leak, factory owner booked (Third Lead)

HARDOI/LUCKNOW – Three people, including a woman, died and seven others were hospitalised following a gas leak at a chemical factory in Hardoi district, officials said Saturday. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered and a criminal case has been registered against the factory owner who is absconding.

The gas has been identified as phosgene.
A …. Original source  : Three die in Uttar Pradesh gas leak, factory owner booked (Third Lead).

Rapist run over by train, dies

GHAZIABAD – A man who raped a five-year-old girl in Loni town of this district died after he was run over by a train while trying to escape late Friday, police said Saturday.

Police said Rajesh, 25, a resident of Vikas Nagar in Loni, lured the girl to an abandoned area Friday night and raped …. Original article  : Rapist run over by train, dies.

Kerala Left front hits back at opposition with Kozhikode sex case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – With assembly elections around the corner, Kerala’s Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M)-led government appears to have grabbed the sensational Kozhikode ice cream parlour sex scandal case as a possible election issue.

The case of sexual abuse on a minor girl, which involved former state industry minister and Indian Union Muslim League …. Read the original article  : here.