Legal News – Monthly Newsletter February 2011

Mizoram governor wants census of Myanmarese migrants

AIZAWL – Mizoram Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) M.M. Lakhera has suggested a census of Myanmarese nationals staying in the northeastern state, bordering Myanmar, officials said here Saturday.

Several NGOs and societal organisations recently met the governor at Raj Bhavan and expressed concern over the sudden increase in crime and narcotics peddling, mostly attributed to …. Read the original article  : Mizoram governor wants census of Myanmarese migrants.

Prisoners extend support to Binayak Sen in Bihar

PATNA – Hundreds of prisoners in Patna’s Beur Central Jail in Bihar Friday staged protests and extended their support to activist Binayak Sen, who was sentenced to life imprisonment by a Chhattisgarh court last week.

According to officials of the high-security jail, the prisoners aired their protest by staging a relay hunger-strike and threatened …. Read the original article  : Prisoners extend support to Binayak Sen in Bihar.

Rajasthan urges Gujjars to hold talks

JAIPUR – The Rajasthan government Saturday requested the Gujjar community, agitating for five percent reservation in jobs, to send a delegation to hold further talks on their charter of demands while their protests continued to affect train services in parts of the state.

“We have requested them to send the delegation and we are confident …. Source article  : Rajasthan urges Gujjars to hold talks.

NHRC slams government for opposing ban on endosulfan

NEW DELHI – The National Human Rights Commission Friday slammed the government for opposing the ban on the endosulfan pesticide, stating that this position has led and will continue to lead to grave violations of human rights”.

In a order dated Dec 31, NHRC has recommended that the government should take administrative and legislative action …. Original source  : NHRC slams government for opposing ban on endosulfan.

Chhattisgarh right activists protest Binayak Sen’s conviction

RAIPUR – Right activists and workers of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), the Communist Party of India (CPI) and the Chhattisgarh Mukti Morcha (CMM) held a rally and staged a sit-in Friday here to extend support to activist Binayak Sen, who was sentenced to life by a local court here last week.

It … Original article on : Chhattisgarh right activists protest Binayak Sen’s conviction.

Tripura introduces online RTI plea filing

AGARTALA – Tripura Friday became the first Indian state to introduce online filing of Right to Information (RTI) complaints.

Chief Minister Manik Sarkar launched the service of the Tripura Information Commission (TIC) here.
“The National Informatics Centre (NIC) developed a software for the National Information Commission to operate the ‘Online System’ of getting information, filing … Read more >>>.

Andhra not happy with Krishna waters verdict

HYDERABAD – The Andhra Pradesh government Friday said it was not satisfied with the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal verdict on sharing of surplus water with neighbouring Karnataka and Maharashtra.

Revenue Minister Raghuveera Reddy told reporters that the government would study the full report and consult irrigation experts, engineers and lawyers before taking any decision.
Major … Read : Andhra not happy with Krishna waters verdict.

Intellectuals speak up for M.F. Husain, Arundhati Roy

NEW DELHI – The pitch in support of M.F. Husain’s return to India, and the opposition to the gag on writer Arundhati Roy and legal action against human rights activist Teesta Setalvad rose a notch at the 22nd Safdar Hashmi Memorial hosted by the Safdar Hashmi Memorial Trust (SAHMAT) in Delhi Saturday.

Safdar Hashmi, theatre … Read more >>.

Court pulls up Gujarat government on tribes recognition delay

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court has pulled up the state government for its inaction in recognising the scheduled tribes living in the forest areas of Gir, Alech and Barda.

The first bench of the court comprising Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice K.M. Thaker directed the state government to form committees in this … Read : Court pulls up Gujarat government on tribes recognition delay.

Curbs imposed on tobacco items’ ads on Gujarat public transport buses

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court has imposed curbs on advertisements of tobacco products on public transport buses in the state.

The bench of Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice Akil Kureshi issued the directions to the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) and the Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) following a public interest litigation …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Curbs imposed on tobacco items’ ads on Gujarat public transport buses.

Hundreds protest in Bhopal against Binayak Sen’s conviction

BHOPAL – Hundreds of people belonging to at least nine organisations held a rally here Saturday to protest against the life imprisonment verdict awarded to rights activist and doctor Binayak Sen.

The protestors marched to Nilam Park from Yadgare Shahjani Park, shouting slogans against the sentence.
“If Binayak Sen, who has worked in remote areas …. Read the original article  : here.

Pamela Anderson named PETA’s person of the year

LONDON – “Baywatch” beauty Pamela Anderson has been named the person of the year by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) for her tireless work to end animal cruelty.

“For years, Anderson has been penning letters and posing in ads for PETA UK’s American affiliate in order to raise awareness about cruelty to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pamela Anderson named PETA’s person of the year.

Talks resume between Gujjars, Rajasthan government

JAIPUR – Talks between the agitating Gujjar community and the Rajasthan government resumed Monday after the first round remained inconclusive even as the community’s agitation for five percent reservation in government jobs entered the 15th day, disrupting some train services.

The talks between the 51-member Gujjar delegation sent by the community and the state government’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Talks resume between Gujjars, Rajasthan government.

Nepal’s red health workers ask India to free Binayak Sen

KATHMANDU – Condemning an Indian court verdict sentencing renowned rights activist Binayak Sen to life imprisonment on sedition charges, nine health organisations affiliated to the opposition Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) have asked India to free the physician, who has devoted his life to the welfare of tribals.

All the nine organisations under … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nepal’s red health workers ask India to free Binayak Sen.

Supreme Court bans sale of ‘gutkha’, ‘pan masala’ in plastic pouches

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered a ban on the sale of tobacco products like ‘gutkha’ and ‘pan masala’ in plastic pouches from March 2011, while asking the government to carry out a survey on the ill … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court bans sale of ‘gutkha’, ‘pan masala’ in plastic pouches.

Protests planned in US against Dhaka’s war crimes trial

DHAKA – The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami plans to stage protests in the US, Britain and some Middle East nations against the impending trial of its top brass accused of war crimes during the 1971 freedom movement.

The party plans to use its supporters and “other like-minded organizations” in these countries, The Daily Star said Sunday.
The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gujjars agree for talks, to send 51-member delegation

JAIPUR – After a gap of 13 days, the agitating Gujjars Sunday finally decided to send a 51-member delegation to hold talks with the Rajasthan government in Jaipur. The talks are expected to start late Sunday evening.

The proposed direct talks have been stalled after the protestors put in fresh demands before the meeting could … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gujjars agree for talks, to send 51-member delegation.

Nariman applauds Iyer for seeking ex-CJI’s probe

KOCHI – Retired Supreme Court judge V.R. Krishna Iyer has been applauded by veteran lawyer Fali S. Nariman for demanding a probe into allegations of corruption against former chief justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan.

In a letter to Iyer, Nariman wrote: “As always, you are the hero of 2010. Your prompt and pithily devastating remarks … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nariman applauds Iyer for seeking ex-CJI’s probe.

Break silence, face probe, Iyer tells ex-CJI

KOCHI – Retired Supreme Court judge V.R. Krishna Iyer Tuesday dared former chief justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan to break his silence over allegations of wealth amassment by his relatives and suggested that he face a judicial probe.

Also, the Kerala government’s home department Tuesday launched proceedings for a vigilance probe against Balakrishnan’s son-in-law P.V. … Read more : Break silence, face probe, Iyer tells ex-CJI.

Gujjar leader Bainsla to meet Ashok Gehlot

JAIPUR – Colonel (retd) K.S. Bainsla, leader of Rajasthan’s agitating Gujjar community, will Tuesday hold talks with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, even as the community’s stir for five percent reservation in government jobs entered its 16th day, disrupting some train services.

Bainsla left Piloo Ka Pura near Bayana in Bharatpur district and is expected … Read more >>.

Russia to protect kids from harmful information

MOSCOW – Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has signed a law that aims at protecting the country’s children from receiving any “destructive, harmful and vicious” information.

The law also prohibits any release of information on underage children which causes “fear, terror and panic, justifying abuse and unlawful behaviour”, Xinhua reported citing Russia’s RosBusinessConsulting (RBC) news agency.
… Read : Russia to protect kids from harmful information.

US regrets Russia’s arrest of protesters

WASHINGTON – The US has criticised Russia for arresting dozens of political protesters and urged Moscow to do more to embrace freedom of expression.

“We regret that these arrests have taken place both in Moscow and St Petersburg,” State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said Monday.
Russian authorities arrested more than 120 people who were calling … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US regrets Russia’s arrest of protesters.

Court asks Tata Sky, others to pay tax to Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court has asked TataSky and other direct-to-home (DTH) satellite TV service providers to deposit entertainment tax for July-September 2010 quarter with the state government.

In the directions made available Monday, the bench comprising Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice Akil Kureshi directed TataSky Limited, Dish TV India Limited, Bharat Business …. Original source  : Court asks Tata Sky, others to pay tax to Gujarat.

Remove Bangladeshi migrants from Assam electoral rolls: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Monday urged the Election Commission to delete the names of illegal migrants from Bangladesh from the voters list in Assam and prepare a corrected list ahead of this years assembly polls in the state.

BJP general secretary Vijay Goel, who led a delegation of party leaders …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

80 percent of food adulteration accused walk free in Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR – Over 80 percent of accused in food adulteration cases in Gujarat in the last five years were acquitted due to the state government’s laxity and delay in prosecuting them, according to official data made available Monday.

The data forms part of details furnished by the state government to the Gujarat High Court on …. Read the original article  : here.

Bofors scam returns to haunt the Congress

NEW DELHI – The Bofors ghost is out again to haunt the Congress-led government as an Income Tax tribunal has ruled that Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi and his partner Win Chadha received a commission of over Rs.412 million in the Rs.15 billion Howitzer gun deal in 1987. The opposition BJP has demanded that the “fraud” …. Original source  : Bofors scam returns to haunt the Congress.

Main observations of tax tribunal on Bofors case

NEW DELHI – Following are the main observations by an Income Tax Tribunal on matter pertaining to a taxation case slapped on a heir to one of the co-accused who allegedly received kickbacks in the 155mm Bofors Howitzer guns sale to India in 1986.

– An amount of 242.062 million Swedish kroners (Rs.412.5 million) was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Main observations of tax tribunal on Bofors case.

In Britain, you can be fined 1000 pounds for putting up posters

LONDON – A pet owner in Britain has been warned by an environmental agency that he could be fined after he nailed missing cat posters in his neighbourhood trees.

Mike Harding’s seven-year-old cat Wookie got lost and he appealed to the public to help in finding his beloved pet.
The driving instructor from Bedford put … Read : In Britain, you can be fined 1000 pounds for putting up posters.

Gujjars again talk to Rajasthan government

JAIPUR – A 36-member Gujjar team began another round of talks Wednesday with the Rajasthan government even as the community continued to block rail tracks for the 17th day demanding job quotas.

The delegation, led by retired army colonel K.S. Bainsla, opened negotiations with a three-member ministerial committee in a bid to end a dragging …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gujjars again talk to Rajasthan government.

McCartney urges Manmohan to celebrate vegetarianism

NEW DELHI – Beatles legend Paul McCartney, who is a PETA activist, has written to Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh urging him to chose a date to annually celebrate vegetarianism.

The singer has suggested that the meat-free day could be Jan 12, the foundation day of People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, said … Read : McCartney urges Manmohan to celebrate vegetarianism.

Prosecutor details allegations against Jackson’s doctor

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles prosecutor outlined the case against Michael Jackson’s doctor for the first time, detailing a list of troubling actions by Conrad Murray that allegedly caused the June 2009 death of the king of pop.

Deputy District Attorney David Walgren Tuesday levelled the litany of charges on the first day of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Prosecutor details allegations against Jackson’s doctor.

Asian aid ship reaches Gaza crossing

CAIRO – A ship carrying aid from Asia for the Gaza Strip was allowed to dock in Egypt’s el-Arish port Tuesday, after nearly three days of waiting for permission, organisers of the relief effort said.

“Asia2Gaza paid $10,000 to Egypt and finally was allowed to dock the aid ship in el-Arish,” said the group on … Original article on : Asian aid ship reaches Gaza crossing.

Settle corruption cases speedily, Himachal courts told

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh High Court’s Chief Justice Kurian Joseph has directed all the session judges in the state to dispose of corruption cases on a priority basis, an official statement said Tuesday.

In a missive to the session judges, Justice Joseph has directed them to dispose of corruption cases prior to 2008 by June …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Settle corruption cases speedily, Himachal courts told.

Gujjar talks drag, to continue Wednesday

JAIPUR – The meeting between Gujjar leader Colonel (retd) K.S. Bainsla and Rajasthan government representatives Tuesday once again remained inconclusive. However, both the parties have agreed to meet again Wednesday morning.

The community’s stir for five percent reservation in government jobs entered its 16th day Tuesday and disruption of some train services continued.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gujjar talks drag, to continue Wednesday.

If Binayak convicted wrongly, it’ll be corrected legally: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday said if rights activist Binayak Sen had been convicted wrongly for his Maoists links then it would be corrected through legal ways.

“If he is wrongly convicted, it will be corrected in lawful ways,” Chidambaram said, adding that the doctor-activist has been convicted by a court of …. Source article  : If Binayak convicted wrongly, it’ll be corrected legally: Chidambaram.

Indians top list of non-Arab foreigners in Kuwait

DUBAI – People of Indian origin top the list of non-Arab foreigners living in Kuwait, official statistics show.

According to figures released by the Immigration General Administration, around 600,000 Indians lived in Kuwait till Nov 30, 2009, the Gulf News reported Tuesday.
Around 233,000 Indians – including 157,000 men and 76,000 women – worked as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indians top list of non-Arab foreigners in Kuwait.

Gujarat official invites court rap for loud ringtone

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court has ordered disciplinary action against a bureaucrat after his mobile phone rang inside the court room and disturbed proceedings, a court statement said Tuesday.

A single judge bench of Justice R.R. Tripathi ordered the settlement commissioner to initiate action against D.P. Jethva, a city survey superintendent in Surat city. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gujarat official invites court rap for loud ringtone.

Court upholds CBI plea in Bofors case

NEW DELHI – Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Vinod Yadav Thursday upheld the CBI plea that the tax notice served on Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi was not linked with the criminal aspect of the Bofors kickbacks scam.

The magistrate dismissed an application asking the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the central government to state whether there …. Original article  : Court upholds CBI plea in Bofors case.

CBI plea on Bofors case upheld

NEW DELHI – Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Vinod Yadav Thursday upheld the CBI plea that the tax notice served on Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi was not linked with the criminal aspect of the Bofors kickbacks scam.

The magistrate dismissed an application asking the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the central government to state whether there …. Source article  : CBI plea on Bofors case upheld.

No change in CBI plan to withdraw Bofors case, court told

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Thursday told a court that despite the income tax tribunal ruling that kickbacks had indeed been paid in the Bofors deal, there was no change in its stand to close cases against Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi, one of the alleged recipients of the bribe.

CBI’s lawyer, … Read more >>>.

Drop sedition case against Binayak Sen: Human Rights Watch

NEW YORK – The Indian government should drop sedition cases against rights activists Binayak Sen, Arundhati Roy, and others, the Human Rights Watch said Thursday.

The international body has also urged the Indian parliament to repeal the colonial-era sedition law, as it has been used by the authorities to “silence peaceful political dissent”.
The [..] Read the original article: here.

Balakrishnan’s son-in-law quits Youth Congress, ready for probe (Night lead)

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOCHI – Former chief justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan’s son-in-law P.V. Srinijin Wednesday quit the Youth Congress over allegations of amassing illegal wealth and said he was ready to face any probe, even as a court accepted a plea against Balakrishnan’s kin over alleged financial irregularities.

The Youth Congress had earlier announced it would probe … Read more : Balakrishnan’s son-in-law quits Youth Congress, ready for probe (Night lead).

Gujjars end quota agitation

JAIPUR – The Gujjar community in Rajasthan late Wednesday called off their 17-day-old agitation for reservation in government jobs and said they had reached an agreement with the state government after several rounds of talks.

“We have called off the agitation. We have reached an agreement,” said Roop Singh, spokesperson of the Gujjar Aarakshan Sangarsh …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gujjars end quota agitation.

Gujjars call off quota stir

JAIPUR – The Gujjar community in Rajasthan late Wednesday called off their 17-day-old agitation for reservation in government jobs and said they had reached an agreement with the state government.

“We have called off the agitation. We have reached an agreement,” said Roop Singh, spokesperson of the Gujjar Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti that has been spearheading …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gujjars call off quota stir.

Gujjars reach agreement with Rajasthan government

JAIPUR – An agreement has been reached during talks between the agitating Gujjar community and the Rajasthan government over the community’s demand for five percent reservation in government jobs, Gujjar sources said Wednesday.

A 36-member Gujjar team was in talks here with the state government even as the community continued to block rail tracks … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gujjars reach agreement with Rajasthan government.

Iyer now attacks CPI-M

KOCHI – Former Supreme Court judge V.R. Krishna Iyer, who has attacked relatives of former chief justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan for allegedly amassing wealth, Wednesday questioned the silence of the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) on the issue.

Iyer told reporters here: “I think it is their (CPI-M’s) duty to speak on … Read : Iyer now attacks CPI-M.

BJP slams CBI stance in Bofors case

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Wednesday said that the CBI had “shamelessly” favoured withdrawal of the case against Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi despite an income tax tribunals order that kickbacks were paid in the Bofors gun deal and charged the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government of not being serious in tackling corruption. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP slams CBI stance in Bofors case.

CPI-M flays apex court on ban on roadside meetings

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Friday described as “highly unfortunate” the Supreme Court decision to uphold a ban on public meetings and rallies on roadsides in Kerala.

“It is highly unfortunate the Supreme Court had upheld the judgement of the Kerala High Court,” the CPI-M said in a statement here, a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CPI-M flays apex court on ban on roadside meetings.

6,500 tourists availed visa on arrival in 2010

NEW DELHI – As many as 6,549 tourists from five countries visited India in 2010 by availing the visa on arrival scheme, the tourism ministry said Friday.

The visa on arrival scheme was introduced Jan 1, 2010 for citizens of five countries – Finland, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand and Singapore.
According to a ministry statement, … Read more »»».

Abu Dhabi bans dogs in public places

Abu Dhabi, Jan 6 (IANS/WAM) Entry of dogs has been banned in most public places in Abu Dhabi, including beaches, swimming pools, parks, shopping centres and restaurants.

The Abu Dhabi Municipality said this was part of an effort to maintain public health and the urban aesthetic appearance of the city.
The municipality called on all … Read more »»».

India urged to repeal sedition law

NEW YORK – The Indian parliament should repeal the colonial-era sedition law which it said was employed to silence peaceful political dissent, Human Rights Watch said Thursday.

And the Indian government should drop sedition cases against prominent activists such as Binayak Sen, Arundhati Roy and others, the US-based body said.
In two recent cases, in …. Source  : India urged to repeal sedition law.

Sex-change man cannot be registered as woman: Malaysian court

KUALA LUMPUR – A high court in Malaysia has dismissed the application of a 35-year-old man, who underwent a sex-change operation more than four years ago, to change the gender status on his MyKad, the national identity card.

The court ruled that it was not ready to declare the applicant a woman “because his new …. Original article  : Sex-change man cannot be registered as woman: Malaysian court.

US court orders Twitter to hand over WikiLeaks documents

WASHINGTON – A court in the US has ordered information network Twitter to hand over documents connected to WikiLeaks to the US Justice Department, CNN reported Saturday.

The documents relate to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and US Army private Bradley Manning, who is under arrest on suspicion of leaking information to the whistleblowing website, the …. Read the original article  : US court orders Twitter to hand over WikiLeaks documents.

Supreme Court panel vetoes mining by Reddy brothers

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC) Friday recommended the cancellation of the mining leases of Reddy brothers in the Bellary reserved forest area, saying they were engaged in illegal mining.

The CEC recommended to the forest bench of Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia, Justice Aftab Alam and Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan to …. Source article  : Supreme Court panel vetoes mining by Reddy brothers.

Security forces cannot solve every problem in Chhattisgarh: Court

NEW DELHI – The apex court Friday observed that sending security forces to Maoist-affected Chhattisgarh for dealing with every problem would not lead to a solution.

The court also wondered if there was no solution to the problem by which tribals displaced due to the Salwa Judum civil milita movement in the state could return …. Source  : Security forces cannot solve every problem in Chhattisgarh: Court.

High Court seeks records in Binayak Sen conviction

BILASPUR – A division bench of the Chhattisgarh High Court Friday sought case records of a trial court that awarded life imprisonment to rights activist Binayak Sen and set Jan 24 to hear his bail plea.

“Records of the trial court is called for by the division bench of the high court while admitting criminal … Read this article on Gaea Times at : High Court seeks records in Binayak Sen conviction.

Sibal says $40 bn spectrum loss estimate ‘utterly erroneous’ (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Communications Minister Kapil Sibal Friday said the methodology adopted by the official auditor was “utterly erroneous” while arriving at the estimate of Rs.1.76 lakh crore ($40 billion) as the loss in awarding telecom airwaves in 2008.

Sibal also slammed the opposition for disrupting the entire winter session of parliament and spreading what …. Source  : Sibal says $40 bn spectrum loss estimate ‘utterly erroneous’ (Roundup).

Apex court turns down Assam’s plea to reduce compensation

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday declined the Assam government’s plea seeking reduction in the amount of compensation to be paid to those killed by security forces in violence orchestrated by the separatists from 1998 to 2001.

“We are not inclined to reduce the compensation awarded to the victims by the Justice K.N. Saikia … Read more >>>.

Kozhikode bar panel asks Balakrishnan to step down, face probe

KOZHIKODE – The Kozhikode Bar Association Friday passed a resolution asking National Human Rights Commission chief and former chief justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan to step down from his post and face a probe into allegations of corruption against him.

The resolution, passed with more than 100 members supporting it and just two members not … Read : Kozhikode bar panel asks Balakrishnan to step down, face probe.

Gujarat lawyer’s 25,000 kites to highlight human rights

GANDHINAGAR – An Ahmedabad-based lawyer has prepared about 25,000 kites to distribute in various cities of Gujarat to create awareness among people about human rights.

Advocate Rajendra Shukla, who is attached with an NGO, Yogkshem Foundation, said Friday that the kites would be distributed among the poor and in slums to create rights …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Court accepts Swamy’s complaint against Raja

NEW DELHI – A complaint against former communications minister Andimuthu Raja filed by Janata Party president Subramanian Swamy was Friday accepted by a court here, calling it “maintainable”.

“I am of the opinion that the complaint as such is maintainable,” Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Judge Pradeep Chaddah said.
Subramanian Swamy, who moved …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Court accepts Swamy’s complaint against Raja.

New age art celebrates 50 years of the pill

NEW DELHI – In the age of fast love, multiple relationships and early maturity, the ‘pill’ or the oral contraceptive has become the woman’s most intimate friend. And a first-of its kind art project, featuring works by leading contemporary Indian and international artists will celebrate 50 years of the pill in the capital.

The exposition …. Source  : New age art celebrates 50 years of the pill.

WikiLeaks demands Google, Facebook unseal US subpoenas

LONDON – WikiLeaks has demanded that Google and Facebook reveal the contents of any US subpoenas they may have received, a media report said Saturday.

The demand came after it emerged that a US court had ordered Twitter to hand over details of accounts on the micro-blogging site by five people associated with the group, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India asks Gulf countries to end sponsorship regime

NEW DELHI – India has initiated active diplomatic process with the Gulf countries to get the sponsorship regulations – the main reason behind violations of human rights in the region – abolished, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi said Saturday.

“We have signed labour agreements with most of the Gulf countries. They have promised … Read more »»».

Prashan Bhushan attacks Sibal

NEW DELHI – In a blistering attack on Communications Minister Kapil Sibal for saying that the audit report on auction of second generation (2G) telecom spectrum was erroneous, senior Supreme Court counsel Prashant Bhushan Saturday said that it amounted to largely giving a clean chit to his disgraced predecessor A. Raja.

DMK leader Raja had … Read more : Prashan Bhushan attacks Sibal.

2G scam: Supreme Court issues notice to Centre, 11 telecom companies

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to the Centre and eleven licencee companies that have not fulfilled roll-out obligations on a petitions seeking cancellation of all the licenses of 2G spectrum issued by former Communications Minister A Raja.

A bench comprising justices G S Singhvi and A K Ganguly sought the response …. Read the original article  : 2G scam: Supreme Court issues notice to Centre, 11 telecom companies.

Supreme Court to hear 2G spectrum case today

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will hear on Monday two petitions seeking cancellation of all the licenses of 2G spectrum issued by former Communications Minister A Raja.

The petitioners, Janata Party President Subramaniam Swamy and Prashant Bhushan, an advocate, have prayed to the apex court that in view of the collosal loss of Rs 1.76 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Act strictly in exploitation of girls by NRIs: Sukhbir

NEW DELHI -) Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukbhir Singh Badal said Sunday that there were thousands of cases of girls from Punjab being exploited for marriage by people of Indian origin staying in Canada and strict action should be taken in all such complaints.

Addressing queries from the gathering here at the concluding day of … Read more >>>.

Uttar Pradesh child adoptions under court scanner

LUCKNOW – Inter-country adoption of orphans and the destitute through the family court in Lucknow has come under the scrutiny of the Allahabad High Court following allegations of irregularities.

Chief Justice F.I. Rebello took note of a complaint made by Saksham Foundation, an organization working in the field of child rights, and ordered an inquiry …. Source article  : Uttar Pradesh child adoptions under court scanner.

Indian diplomat in Britain claims immunity on wife-beating charge

LONDON/NEW DELHI – A high-ranking Indian diplomat in Britain has escaped charges of assaulting his wife after he claimed immunity due to his diplomatic status, a media report said Sunday. The Indian external affairs ministry in New Delhi said it was “carefully looking” into the incident.

Anil Verma, the third senior-most Indian diplomat and minister …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian diplomat in Britain claims immunity on wife-beating charge.

1993 Mumbai blasts case: Supreme Court’s final hearing on March 29

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will conduct a final hearing of the 1993 Mumbai blasts case on March 29.

A decision to this effect was taken on Tuesday after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the apex court that a few Marathi documents were to be translated into English, and that it needed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 1993 Mumbai blasts case: Supreme Court’s final hearing on March 29.

CVC Thomas to face trial in palm oil corruption case

NEW DELHI – The trial of Chief Vigilance Commissioner P.J. Thomas in the palm oil import corruption case will continue, the Supreme Court ruled Tuesday.

The decks were cleared after the Supreme Court said former Kerala chief minister K. Karunakaran’s appeal against the trial in the case was infructuous following his death.
Thomas was …. Read the original article  : here.

Times have changed for K.G. Balakrishnan (Letter from Kerala)

KOTTAYAM – Four years ago, the sleepy village of Kaduthuruthy, 30 km from here, was basking in the glory of one of its sons, a humble Dalit who went on to become the 37th chief justice of India.

K.G. Balakrishnan assumed the office of Supreme Court chief justice four years ago — Jan 12, …. Original source  : Times have changed for K.G. Balakrishnan (Letter from Kerala).

Jackson doctor ordered fatal anaesthetic, says witness

LOS ANGELES – Michael Jackson’s doctor ordered hundreds of vials of the anaesthetic propofol in the months leading up to the pop singer’s death, a witness said.

Pharmacist Tim Lopez made the statements Monday at the start of the second week in the preliminary hearing for Conrad Murray, who is charged with involuntary manslaughter of …. Source article  : Jackson doctor ordered fatal anaesthetic, says witness.

Situation in Uttar Pradesh worse than Emergency: Varun Gandhi

BARIELLY – Training his guns on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Varun Gandhi said here Monday that conditions in the state were worse than during the 1975-77 Emergency.

The MP from Pilibhit was speaking to mediapersons after calling on jailed independent legislator Raghuraj Pratap Singh, popularly known as Raja Bhaiya.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Situation in Uttar Pradesh worse than Emergency: Varun Gandhi.

Supreme Court issues notice to Jharkhand CM Munda

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court reacting to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) which said that an unelected person should not be made a chief minister, on Monday issued notices to Jharkhand Governor M O H Farooq, Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda and former state chief Shibu …. Original source  : Supreme Court issues notice to Jharkhand CM Munda.

Banks asked to deposit Emaar MGF’s guarantee money with court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday asked two state-run banks to deposit the Rs.93 crore bank guarantee of real estate giant Emaar MGF for constructing the Commonwealth Games (CWG) village with its registrar general till the disposal of a case relating to incomplete work at the site.

A division bench of Justice Vikramajit …. Read the original article  : Banks asked to deposit Emaar MGF’s guarantee money with court.

Court questions Gujarat on pollution

GANDHINAGAR – A letter from a man over official apathy towards pollution by industries in east Ahmedabad was Monday turned into a public interest suit by the Gujarat High Court, which questioned the government over the allegation.

The court issued notices to the government, the State Human Rights Commission, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and … Read : Court questions Gujarat on pollution.

Government, 11 telecom firms get court notice on 2G spectrum (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notice to the governments and 11 firms on a plea seeking cancellation of licences and award of spectrum for second generation (2G) phone services during former communications minister A. Raja’s tenure.

The court also said that it will ask the government how much loss, if any, the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Government, 11 telecom firms get court notice on 2G spectrum (Roundup).

West Bengal asked to produce case diary of Lalgarh incident

KOLKATA – The Calcutta High Court has asked the West Bengal Government to produce case diary of the incident that took place in Lalgarh’s Netai village on Friday.

The court has asked the Government to produce the diary by 2 p.m. tomorrow.

Earlier today, the Kolkata Bar Association has filed a Public [..] Read the original article: here.

Film fest on disability begins Thursday

NEW DELHI – Aiming to bring together voices from across the world on issues pertaining to disability, the eighth edition of the We Care Film Festival will start in the capital Thursday, officials said.

With 67 entries from countries like US, Britain, Canada, Israel, Indonesia, Spain, Italy, Brazil, Australia and Nepal besides India, the festival …. Original source  : Film fest on disability begins Thursday.

Hajj corruption scandal: Pak SC cracks down on investigating agency

ISLAMABAD – Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry on Tuesday said the apex court would not let anyone hush up the Hajj corruption scandal.

Pulling up the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) over the way it was conducting the investigation, Chaudhry directed the government to remove FIA Director General Wasim Ahmed from the case.

According to The … Read : Hajj corruption scandal: Pak SC cracks down on investigating agency.

Seven years on, Kashmir still waits for information commission

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir was the first to enact the Right to Information (RTI) Act in 2004. But seven years down the line and despite Rs.8.3 million being spent on the required infrastructure in the past year, the State Information Commission is yet to be set up.

RTI activists in the state are …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Seven years on, Kashmir still waits for information commission.

State legislature in US passes death penalty repeal

WASHINGTON – The General Assembly in the US Midwestern state of Illinois voted to abolish the death penalty, but it was unclear whether the governor would sign the repeal.

The state Senate passed the measure 32-25 Tuesday after the House of Representatives had approved it last week.
Governor Pat Quinn, a Democrat, had previously expressed … Read more : State legislature in US passes death penalty repeal.

Father treks 14 km with daughter’s body tied to cycle

BHOPAL – In a shocking instance of absolute helplessness, a poor tribal farmer in Madhya Pradesh had to trek 14 kilometres with his teenage daughter’s body on a makeshift bier tied to his bicycle to get her autopsy done.

The local police in his village had told the farmer it was his responsibility to take … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Father treks 14 km with daughter’s body tied to cycle.

Media cannot be used to fight corporate battles: Tata

NEW DELHI – Tata group chairman Ratan Tata has questioned the “indiscriminate disclosure” of private conversations between corporate lobbyist Niira Radia and a host of others being justified under the right to free speech, saying the media cannot be used to fight corporate battles.

“The right to freedom of expression cannot be a euphemism for …. Source  : Media cannot be used to fight corporate battles: Tata.

Lalgarh violence: West Bengal Govt. asked to clarify its stand

KOLKATA – The Kolkata High Court, while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) into the January 7 violence case in Lalgarh’s Netai village, on Tuesday asked the West Bengal Government to file an affidavit by Friday on whether or not there should be a Central Bureau if Investigation … Read : Lalgarh violence: West Bengal Govt. asked to clarify its stand.

Gujarat high court’s secular credentials questioned in PIL

GANDHINAGAR – A Gujarat High Court bench headed by Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya Tuesday refused to hear a public interest suit questioning the court’s secular credentials.

The bench of Chief Justice Mukhopadhaya and Justice K.M. Thaker said: “Let the matter be listed before another bench where the chief justice is not a member.” [..] Read the original article: here.

Gulf NRIs seek differential tax treatment

NEW DELHI – The proposed changes in the new direct tax code, which makes NRIs liable to pay tax if they stay in India for over 60 days a year, has led to some distress among the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region as they tend to spend a longer time in India due to … Read : Gulf NRIs seek differential tax treatment.

British Airways workers may strike on royal wedding day

LONDON – The royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton – likely to be a major tourist attraction to Britain this year – may be hampered with British Airways and metro union workers planning to launch a strike during that period.

The wedding is slated for April 29.
British Airways cabin crews and London …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : British Airways workers may strike on royal wedding day.

New rules for tourist visa to ‘curb misuse’

NEW DELHI – Foreigners travelling to India on tourist visas have to give a two-month gap before they re-enter the country, according to new government rules aimed at avoiding “misuse” of the tourist visa.

“It has come to the notice of the government that there has been abuse, misuse of tourist visa. With a view … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New rules for tourist visa to ‘curb misuse’.

US Republicans disappointed at Palin’s ‘blood libel’ rant over attack on Giffords

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin missed a prime opportunity to demonstrate that she can play on the presidential stage when she delivered a video statement on the attack on US Representative Gabrielle Giffords, top Republicans have said.

Giffords, and 18 others were shot on January 8 when a gunman opened fire outside a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Human rights situation worsening in Tibet, says NGO

DHARAMSALA – The human rights situation has worsened in Tibet, with the Chinese government cracking down on singers, writers and environmentalists, an NGO of Tibetan exiles said here Thursday.

“The Chinese government laid policies to enforce a systematic crackdown on influential Tibetans like singers, writers and environmentalists,” said Ugen Tenzin, executive director of the Tibetan …. Original article  : Human rights situation worsening in Tibet, says NGO.

Nepal Maoists favour regulated border, visa for Indians

KATHMANDU – Staking claim to the new government, the Maoists, the largest party in Nepal’s parliament, have indicated they favour regulating the open border between India and Nepal and visa for Indians in Nepal as part of their demand to scrap a six-decade-old bilateral pact.

Baburam Bhattarai, the deputy chief of the Maoists and the …. Source  : Nepal Maoists favour regulated border, visa for Indians.

Arizona shooting: Palin ‘blood libel’comment upsets American Jews

LONDON – Former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin has upset American Jews by using the term “””blood libel””” against her critics in connection with last weekend’s shootings in Tucson, Arizona.

ccording to The Guardian, Palin’s use of the phrase “blood libel” historically refers to the false accusation that Jews killed Christian …. Source  : Arizona shooting: Palin ‘blood libel’comment upsets American Jews.

JuD head Hafiz Saeed wants Pak Govt to defend him in US court in Mumbai attack case

LAHORE – Jamaatud Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Muhammad Saeed has moved the Lahore High Court seeking direction for the Pakistan Government to defend him, ISI chiefs and others before a US court, which has issued summons to them in connection with the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.

Saeed, his operational commander Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, DG ISI Lt Gen …. Source article  : JuD head Hafiz Saeed wants Pak Govt to defend him in US court in Mumbai attack case.

Kin of man who died due to hospitals’ laxity get relief

NEW DELHI – The Delhi government was Wednesday directed by the Delhi High Court to pay Rs.3 lakh as interim compensation to the kin of a vegetable vendor who was injured in a road accident and died in an ambulance after being refused admission by one hospital after another.

“We are inclined to direct the … Read : Kin of man who died due to hospitals’ laxity get relief.

Over 3,000 tribal women demonstrate in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL – In an unprecedented expression of anger, about 3,000 tribal women Wednesday demonstrated in Barwani before the district collector and the superintendent of police.

The demonstrators, including children, were protesting against the arrest of fellow tribals who questioned the rising incidents of maternal deaths in the district government hospitals.
The women were gathered … Read more »».

Mamata pitches for mediclaim for sex workers

KOLKATA – Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday asked her party-run Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) board to bring sex workers and their children under a mediclaim policy.

“Sex workers have taken up their profession out of necessity to make a living. There are many who hate them. But this is not fair. Often these women … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mamata pitches for mediclaim for sex workers.

Darjeeling hills shutdown sees clashes, road blockade

SILIGURI – Clashes, road blockade and thin traffic marked the first day of the 27-day phased strike called by the Gorkha Jana Mukti Morcha (GJM) in the three hill sub-divisions of Darjeeling district to pressurise the central government into accepting their demand for a separate Gorkhaland state.

Normal life was paralysed in the hills as … Read more »».

Obama urged to press Hu on missing lawyer, jailed activists

BEIJING – Human rights groups Friday urged US President Barack Obama to press his Chinese counterpart, Hu Jintao, over missing lawyer Gao Zhisheng and other jailed activists.

“We hope you will seize the opportunity before you – an opportunity nearly all Chinese lack – to confront the Chinese leadership about its profound disrespect for universal … Read more >>>.

India to ease travel permits for Pakistani Kashmiris

NEW DELHI – The government will “unilaterally” ease travel restrictions and give multiple-entry permits valid for six months to Pakistani Kashmiris who want to visit their families in Jammu and Kashmir, Home Secretary G.K. Pillai said Friday.

Pillai said Pakistan did not agree to the Indian government’s idea to ease travel curbs on families divided …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India to ease travel permits for Pakistani Kashmiris.

WikiLeaks pays US soldier $15,100 legal fee for leaks

LONDON – Whistle-blower website Wikileaks has donated $15,100 to the legal defence fund of the US soldier accused of providing it with the digital trove of secret diplomatic cables sent to and from American embassies across the globe.

The legal defence fund of Private Bradley Manning, charged with the disclosure of thousands of classified … Read more »»».

Russia’s ‘porn king’ wants his movies back

Moscow, Jan 14 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A top porn movie producer in Russia – dubbed the “porn king” – has filed a complaint in a court demanding the return of more than 60,000 adult films made by his studio that are currently in the court’s possession.

The St. Petersburg court seized the adult movies made by …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UN human rights rapporteur to visit Kashmir Jan 19

NEW DELHI/SRINAGAR – United Nations rapporteur on human rights Margaret Sekaggya will visit Srinagar on Jan 19 to assess the condition of “human rights defenders” in the conflict-hit Kashmir Valley, a UN official said Friday.

“Sekaggya, the special rapporteur on human rights defenders appointed by the Geneva-based Human Rights Council, arrived in India …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UN human rights rapporteur to visit Kashmir Jan 19.

Apex court questions secrecy about German bank accounts

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday asked the central government what was the difficulty in making public the names of people who have stashed away huge amount of money in a German bank.

The observation from the apex court bench of Justice B. Sudarshan Reddy and Justice S.S. Nijjar came in the wake of …. Original article  : Apex court questions secrecy about German bank accounts.

Darbari gets bail in CWG scam

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court on Friday granted bail to former Commonwealth Games (CWG) Organising Committee (OC) official T S Darbari on the grounds that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) did not file any chargesheet against him.

The High Court also said that the CBI has not submitted enough evidence to nail … Read more »».

Pakistan unlikely to defend Hafiz Saeed in 26/11 US lawsuit

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has dodged the issue of defending Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Muhammad Saeed in a US lawsuit, which has issued him summons in connection with the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, saying it would only protect the interests of ISI officials who had been named in the case.

DG ISI Lt Gen Ahmed Shuja Pasha, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan unlikely to defend Hafiz Saeed in 26/11 US lawsuit.

‘Able’ person gets disability award in Goa, complaint filed

PANAJI – A collective working for disabled people in Goa filed a complaint against Minister for Social Welfare Sudin Dhavalikar for what it called fraudulently awarding state disability award 2010 to an ‘able’ person.

In a formal criminal complaint filed with the Panaji police, Avelino D’Sa of the Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG) … Read more >>>.

Calcutta High Court decision on Lalgarh killings

KOLKATA – The Calcutta High Court will today decide on a petition asking for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) enquiry into the killings in Lalgarh’s Netai village.

The State Home Secretary has filed an affidavit saying no CBI inquiry is needed as the CID is already investigating the case.

The affidavit would be placed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Calcutta High Court decision on Lalgarh killings.

Goa asked to pay Rs.50,000 compensation to beggar

PANAJI – The National Human Right’s Commission (NHRC) has asked the Goa government to pay Rs.50,000 to a beggar who was literally dumped by police in a garbage dump and left to die.

The commission said the money should be recovered from the guilty policemen’s salaries.
The NHRC in its order dated Jan …. Read the original article  : Goa asked to pay Rs.50,000 compensation to beggar.

Indian journalist defends WikiLeaks at British parliament

LONDON – Whistle-blower website WikiLeaks and its founder Julian Assange “do not deserve to be treated like common criminals” for upholding “such precious freedom” that does not exist in many countries, a leading Indian journalist said here.

The US athorities want to charge Assange for revealing state secrets after his website published thousands of documents, …. Source article  : Indian journalist defends WikiLeaks at British parliament.

Britons want cuts in immigration level

LONDON – About 80 percent people in Britain want to see cuts in the level of immigration, a survey carried out for the government has revealed.

According to the Daily Mail, more than half the population want to see numbers coming from abroad to live in Britain reduced by “a lot”, the study found.
The … Read : Britons want cuts in immigration level.

Court moved on Delhi’s power tariff

NEW DELHI – North Delhi Power Limited (NDPL) Friday filed a petition before Delhi High Court asking it to direct the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) to determine the tariff for 2010-2011.

In an application before a division bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justice Manmohan, NDPL, a joint venture of Tata … Read more : Court moved on Delhi’s power tariff.

Swamy moves court against Sibal’s attack on CAG

NEW DELHI – Janata Party president Subramanian Swamy Friday moved the Supreme Court against the “intemperate and uncalled for public attack” by Communications Minister Kapil Sibal on the “CAG methodology for calculating the loss in allocating 2G spectrum in 2008 at 2001 prices.

Swamy said that the way Sibal has led the attack on the …. Source article  : Swamy moves court against Sibal’s attack on CAG.

Arrange blood for pregnant HIV-positive woman: Court to hospital

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday directed the Lady Hardinge Medical College and Sucheta Kriplani Hospital to immediately arrange blood for a pregnant HIV-affected woman who has been advised a Caesarean delivery.

In an interim order, Justice S. Muralidhar ordered the hospital to arrange the blood as the woman’s husband was HIV positive …. Original source  : Arrange blood for pregnant HIV-positive woman: Court to hospital.

CWG scam: Bail for Darbari, hearing on Jayachandran’s plea Monday (Night Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday granted bail to former Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) official T.S. Darbari and slated for Jan 17 the bail plea of another official, M. Jayachandran. Both are facing investigations in the Queen’s Baton Relay scam.

Justice Hima Kohli granted Darbari bail on technical grounds as the CBI …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Plea seeking release of Amar Singh tapes in apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday issued notice to the central government and Rajya Sabha member Amar Singh on a plea seeking vacation of the court’s 2006 order restraining the publication of the tapes of the former Samajwadi Party leader’s telephonic conversations.

An apex court bench of Justice G.S.Singhvi and Justice Asok Kumar Ganguly … Read more : Plea seeking release of Amar Singh tapes in apex court.

New law on disability soon, says Mukul Wasnik

NEW DELHI – The old disability act will soon be replaced by a new legislation that will be suitably aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Mukul Wasnik said here Friday.

“Provisions of the present act do fall short of the provisions … Read : New law on disability soon, says Mukul Wasnik.

CWG scam: Darbari gets bail, Jayachandran hearing continues (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday granted bail to former Commonwealth Games Organising Committee official T.S. Darbari and slated for Jan 17 the bail plea of another official, M. Jayachandran. Both are facing investigations in the Queen’s Baton Relay scam.

Justice Hima Kohli granted Darbari bail on a technical ground as the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : CWG scam: Darbari gets bail, Jayachandran hearing continues (Second Lead).

Cuba raps Facebook, YouTube

HAVANA – Cuba has denounced online social network Facebook and Google-owned video sharing network YouTube for closing its account and censoring video links from the two websites.

YouTube censored the video channel of the Cuban official site Cubadebate and closed it for “alleged violation of copyright”, xinhua reported quoting Cubadebate.
“Google censors, Facebook, too. Today …. Read the original article  : Cuba raps Facebook, YouTube.

India pays tribute to Nepali stars in Mumbai

KATHMANDU – India will celebrate its Republic Day here in a unique way this year, toasting maestros with Nepali roots who became legends in India such as artist Laxman Shrestha, Bollywood diva Manisha Koirala and singer Udit Narayan.

The Indian embassy in Kathmandu has commissioned a documentary, “Rainbow over Mumbai”, which pays … Read more : India pays tribute to Nepali stars in Mumbai.

Using RTI difficult for us, says Indians abroad

NEW DELHI – Living overseas for education, employment or other reasons, Indians abroad find it difficult to use the Right to Information (RTI) Act due to the cumbersome fee-payment process.

“Even after five years of the RTI Act, Indian citizens living abroad are unable to use it effectively because of a cumbersome fee payment … Read : Using RTI difficult for us, says Indians abroad.

Peru bans smoking in public buildings

Lima, Jan 16 (IANS/EFE) Peru has banned smoking in all public buildings, according to a decree published in the official gazette.

The executive order, which was signed by President Alan Garcia, toughens previous restrictions on smokers and increases penalties for offenders.
Selling tobacco to minors or not observing the ban on smoking in the workplace … Original source on Gaea Times at : Peru bans smoking in public buildings.

NGO sensitises census enumerators on disability issue

NEW DELHI – In an effort to sensitise enumerators on the disability issue so that they ask the newly-included question in this regard “responsibly” and record the answer “faithfully”, an NGO here held a consultation with enumerators of the country’s north zone Saturday.

The consultation, organised by the National Centre for Promotion of Employment of … Read more >>.

Birthday girl Mayawati announces Rs.4,000-crore projects

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati announced some 600 new projects and welfare schemes worth Rs.4,000 crore on her 55th birthday Saturday.

She also chose to give a new name – “Jan Kalyankari Diwas” (public welfare day) – to her birthday that she used to earlier term as “Arthik Sahyog Diwas” (financial support day).
[..] Read the original article: here.

CWG scam: Delhi court grants bail to Mahendroo

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court on Saturday granted bail to another Commonwealth Games (CWG) Organising Committee (OC) official Sanjay Mahendroo after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) failed to file any chargesheet against him.

He was arrested on January 15 in the case of alleged financial bunglings in holding the Queen Baton’s Relay in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : CWG scam: Delhi court grants bail to Mahendroo.

MoEF to submit Lavasa report in Bombay High Court

MUMBAI – The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) will on Monday submit a report prepared by its Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) on the environmental impact of Lavasa in the Bombay High Court.

The fate of Lavasa, planned across 25,000 acres in Baramati district near Pune, hangs in balance after objections were raised over …. Source  : MoEF to submit Lavasa report in Bombay High Court.

Palin defends Jewish “blood libel” comment, accuses opponents of trying to ’shut her up’

WASHINGTON – Potential 2012 presidential candidate Sarah Palin has defended her “blood libel” phrase that she had used in her video response to the Arizona shootings, and added that her critics cannot ’shut her up’ over her conservative agenda.

Palin said her left rivals hate her messages and therefore, trying to stop her.

“I believe there …. Original article  : Palin defends Jewish “blood libel” comment, accuses opponents of trying to ’shut her up’.

Can’t use housing complex as religious building: Gujarat court

GANDHINAGAR – A residential complex cannot be used as a religious building, the Gujarat High Court has ruled and stated that doing so would amount to a breach of the Bombay Provincial Municipalities Act.

Justice R.R. Tripathi ruled that residential buildings were different from those used for religious purposes. The issue involved in the petition … Original article on : Can’t use housing complex as religious building: Gujarat court.

Bombay High Court wants CBI probe on Adarsh scam within two weeks

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court has asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to complete its probe into Mumbai’s Adarsh housing society scam in two weeks.

The CBI has also been asked to take a decision on filing FIRs in the case.

Earlier, accusing the controversial Adarsh Society of violating the spirit of Coastal Regulation …. Source  : Bombay High Court wants CBI probe on Adarsh scam within two weeks.

Environment Ministry to submit Lavasa housing project report

MUMBAI – The Ministry of Environment is expected to file its reply on Lavasa housing project before the Bombay High Court today.

In the report finalised on Monday, the ministry has reportedly said that status quo must be maintained at the site till a final order is given by the Bombay High Court.

The Lavasa Corporation had [..] Read the original article: here.

1.6 bn people still have no access to electricity: UN

NEW YORK – The UN has called for a clean energy revolution that would provide electricity to the world population, including the 1.6 billion people who currently have no access to it.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said in an address to the Fourth World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi that energy provisions can …. Original article  : 1.6 bn people still have no access to electricity: UN.

CVC Thomas ‘fully eligible’ for post, government tells apex court

NEW DELHI – Strongly defending Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) P.J. Thomas’ appointment, the government Monday told the Supreme Court that Thomas was an outstanding civil servant of impeccable integrity and fully eligible to be the CVC as per the CVC Act”.

The government in its affidavit said that the question of suitability is squarely the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

No change in Ashtiani case, says Iranian judiciary

TEHRAN – The Iranian judiciary Monday said there have been no changes in the case of Sakineh Mohammadi-Ashtiani and denied that her death sentence was suspended, official news agency IRNA reported.

In a letter from parliament’s human rights committee head Zohreh Elahian to Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, reported earlier Monday by ISNA news agency, she … Read more : No change in Ashtiani case, says Iranian judiciary.

Civic agencies get praise for night shelters from apex court

NEW DELHI – The capital’s civic agencies got a pat on the back from the apex court Monday for putting up night shelters promptly during the intense winter.

Expressing satisfaction that no death was recorded in Delhi despite the severe winter because of the night shelters, the court remarked: We hope that the apex …. Source article  : Civic agencies get praise for night shelters from apex court.

Probe wing of police not answerable to political bosses: Court told

NEW DELHI – The investigative wing of the police force is a part of the criminal justice delivery system and it was not answerable to a minister or the political bosses, the Supreme Court was told Monday.

The apex court was hearing submissions on the report of the monitoring committee headed by Justice (Retd.) T.K. …. Original source  : Probe wing of police not answerable to political bosses: Court told.

Delhi ombudsman moves high court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi lokayukta (ombudsman) Monday approached the Delhi High Court challenging its order preventing it from inquiring into corruption allegations against three Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers.

In an appeal to the division bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Lokayukta Manmohan Sarin asserted that his office was empowered …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UN envoy arrives in Sri Lanka to assess humanitarian needs

COLOMBO – A senior UN envoy arrived in Sri Lanka Wednesday to assess the humanitarian needs of victims of last week’s floods and of refugees displaced by its civil war, officials said.

Assistant Secretary General Catherine Bragg planned to assess the needs of about 20,000 war refugees still living in government-run camps in the north … Read : UN envoy arrives in Sri Lanka to assess humanitarian needs.

Lalgarh killings: Calcutta High Court refuses to order CBI probe

KOLKATA – The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday refused to order the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the January 7 killings in Lalgarh’s Netai village.

Hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a CBI probe into the Lalgarh killings, the court directed the state CID to continue to probe the matter.

In an interim … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lalgarh killings: Calcutta High Court refuses to order CBI probe.

Malaysian minister orders probe in Sikh trainee’s hair cut

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Defence Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has ordered a probe into a claim of a Sikh trainee of the National Service that his hair was cut while he slept during a camp.

National Service Training Department director-general Abdul Hadi Awang Kechil said a team from the department would be sent to conduct … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Malaysian minister orders probe in Sikh trainee’s hair cut.

Hospital to treat 18-year-old heart patient for free

NEW DELHI – The G.B. Pant Hospital Tuesday assured the Delhi High Court that it would provide free treatment to an 18-year-old boy who sought a direction to the hospital not to charge Rs.130,000 for the replacement of his two valves in the heart.

Justice S. Muralidhar disposed of the petition filed by Furkan Ali, …. Original article  : Hospital to treat 18-year-old heart patient for free.

Court orders Hiranandanis to appear before it next month

PUNE – A local court here Tuesday asked three members of the realty major Hiranandani family to appear before it Feb 22 on a complaint alleging the environmental clearance to their power plant in Pune was obtained illegally.

Vadgaon judicial magistrate (first class) asked Niranjan Hirandandani, Darshan Hiranandani and Kamal Hiranandani to appear before …. Original source  : Court orders Hiranandanis to appear before it next month.

Use discretion for poor, apex court tells states

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday said state governments should exercise their discretionary power for the poor and not for the rich and well-connected people with political clout.

The apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly made the observation while slamming the manner in which the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) [..] Read the original article: here.

High court rejects plea against Delhi minister

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court has rejected a plea to invoke an additional charge of cheating against a Delhi minister — and Congress legislator –summoned by a magistrate to stand trial for concealing facts in an affidavit filed by him ahead of the 2008 polls.

The legislator in his affidavit given to the … Read more >>.

You can choose your path, court tells girl in love

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Tuesday allowed an 18-year-old girl to live with a married man with whom she eloped.

Justice S.N. Dhingra said: “She is above 18 years of age. She has chosen a path for herself of living with a married man. It is her own life and this court cannot …. Original source  : You can choose your path, court tells girl in love.

Mahasweta Devi to join mass sit-in for Binayak Sen’s release

KOLKATA – Jnanpith award winning writer Mahasweta Devi and several other intellectuals will stage a mass sit-in demonstration here Thursday to demand the release of rights activist Binayak Sen and Maoist ideologue Narayan Sanyal.

Eminent theatre personality Bivas Chakraborty, writer Tarun Sanyal, pro-Maoist activists and various civil rights groups will take part in the six-hour …. Source article  : Mahasweta Devi to join mass sit-in for Binayak Sen’s release.

Adarsh scam: Maha Governor makes reference to Supreme Court for Tiwari’s suspension

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan on Tuesday made a reference to the Supreme Court for suspension of Information Commissioner Ramanand Tiwari for his alleged role in the Adarsh Housing Society scam in Mumbai.

According to reports, Governor Sankaranarayanan has made the reference under Section 17.1 of the Right To Information (RTI) Act.

With this development, …. Source article  : Adarsh scam: Maha Governor makes reference to Supreme Court for Tiwari’s suspension.

Cabinet discusses black money issue after apex court rap

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh raised the issue of black money during a cabinet meeting here Thursday, a day after the Supreme Court queried why the government cannot name those involved in this $1.5-trillion “national plunder”.

The discussion came against the backdrop of the apex court coming down heavily on the government’s reluctance … Read more >>.

Sabarimala stampede: ‘Consider cancelling pilgrimage through Pullmedu’, says court

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Unimpressed by the reports submitted before it on the Sabarimala stampede, the Kerala High Court has said if the government cannot take basic safety precautions, it should consider cancelling the pilgrimage through the tricky narrow stretch, where 102 pilgrims lost their lives at Pullmedu in Idukki district last Friday.

Kerala Director General of Police …. Read the original article  : here.

Afghan good in transit pilfered in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A large number of containers carrying Afghan trade goods have been pilfered inside Pakistan without crossing the border, causing a loss of approximately 19 billion to 37 billion rupees to the national exchequer during the last four years, Pakistan’s Supreme Court has been informed.

On Wednesday, the Federal Tax Ombudsman submitted a comprehensive report … Original article on : Afghan good in transit pilfered in Pakistan.

Australian to sue Delhi CWG for unpaid bills

SYDNEY – An Australian company is suing the Delhi Commonwealth Games Organising Committee over unpaid bills, said an official who has given his lawyers the names of other businesses that may want to join the legal action.

ABC.net.au reported that the Australian company that was behind the opening and closing ceremonies is now taking … Read more : Australian to sue Delhi CWG for unpaid bills.

Court refuses to take up plea on NDMC

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Wednesday refused to entertain a petition seeking amendment to the law dealing with nomination of two members to the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), saying it cannot take up the work of the legislature.

“We cannot legislate and recast the existing law and cannot allow the prayer seeking …. Original source  : Court refuses to take up plea on NDMC.

Rights panel concerned over farmers’ suicides in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR/NEW DELHI – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Wednesday expressed concern over the increasing cases of starvation deaths and farmers’ suicides in Orissa and gave a list of recommendations to the state government for the overall improvement in the human rights situation.

“The commission has received complaints of starvation deaths and farmers’ suicides in …. Source article  : Rights panel concerned over farmers’ suicides in Orissa.

Orissa asked to improve human rights situation

NEW DELHI – After taking up all the pending cases in a two-day sitting in Orissa Jan 18-19, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has given a list of recommendations to the state government for the overall improvement in the human rights situation.

According to a statement Wednesday, the commission took up a total of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Orissa asked to improve human rights situation.

‘Northeast women playing key role in peace process’

NEW DELHI – Having suffered pain and injustice for decades, women of the northeastern region of the country are coming together to act as interlocutors between various groups and thus play a key role in the peace process, experts said at a conference here Wednesday.

Titled ‘Northeast India Women Initiative for Peace’, the conclave saw …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Price rise: Court issues notice to Sonia Gandhi

CHANDIGARH – Congress president and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi was Wednesday issued notice by a local court on a petition filed by a city-based NGO over the issue of price rise. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Price rise: Court issues notice to Sonia Gandhi.

Swiss whistleblower banker on trial

GENEVA – A former top Swiss private banking executive turned WikiLeaks collaborator appeared in a Zurich court Wednesday on charges of violating Switzerland’s secrecy laws.

Rudolf Elmer, a former Julius Baer Bank executive, is alleged to have divulged information about clients and the bank in violation of bank privacy and corporate secrecy laws.
The Zurich-based … Original article on : Swiss whistleblower banker on trial.

Supreme Court refuses to ban asbestos

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday refusing to ban asbestos considered a health hazard directed the Union and State Governments to put in place a body to regulate its use and manufacturing.

Dismissing a public interest lawsuit filed by NGO Kalyaneshwari, a bench of Chief Justice S H Kapadia …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2G scam: Supreme Court criticises Kapil Sibal for undermining CAG report

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday pulled up Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal for making statements that undermined the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on the 2G spectrum scam.

“It is unfortunate. The minister should behave with some sense …. Original source  : 2G scam: Supreme Court criticises Kapil Sibal for undermining CAG report.

Criminal complainant against Kamat over Goa land policy

PANAJI – Over 50 civic rights roups and a section of the clergy in Goa Friday filed a criminal complaint against Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and eight other members of a high-level committee for illegally creating eco tourism zones in concert with land sharks.

Members of the Pilerne Citizens Forum (PCF), Ganv Ghor Rakhon …. Original article  : Criminal complainant against Kamat over Goa land policy.

Sabarimala stampede: Kerala govt to submit report before High Court

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Home Secretary Jaya Kumar will today file before the High Court a report on Sabarimala stampede, where 102 pilgrims lost their lives at Pullmedu in Idukki district last Friday.

This comes a day after the High Court came down heavily on the government for lack of co-ordination among various agencies invovled in Sabarimala …. Read the original article  : Sabarimala stampede: Kerala govt to submit report before High Court.

Supreme Court to hear Vedanta University’s appeal

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will hear Vedanta University’s appeal against the Orissa High Court order quashing land acquisition for its university project in Puri.

The Orissa government and the University have challenged the High Court decision saying land acquisition procedures for the proposed Vedanta University project were illegal.

The petition against the university … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court to hear Vedanta University’s appeal.

Staines murder case: Supreme Court upholds life sentence for Dara Singh

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the life sentence for Dara Singh, convicted for killing Australian missionary Graham Staines and his two sons in Orissa’s Koenjhar district in 1999.

Dara had filed an appeal challenging his conviction and the life sentence awarded to him.

The appeals were admitted by the apex court in … Read more »»».

Sabarimala stampede: Kerala govt submits report before High Court

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Home Secretary Jaya Kumar on Friday submitted its report before the High Court on Sabarimala stampede, where 102 pilgrims lost their lives at Pullmedu in Idukki district last Friday.

This comes a day after the High Court came down heavily on the government for lack of co-ordination among various agencies invovled in Sabarimala …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sabarimala stampede: Kerala govt submits report before High Court.

Supreme Court slams Kapil Sibal on telecom audit remark

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday slammed Communications Minister Kapil Sibal for his remark that the official auditor’s report was “utterly erroneous” in assessing the loss on award of telecom spectrum at Rs.1.76 lakh crore ($40 billion).

“It is unfortunate,” said the apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly.
The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Supreme Court slams Kapil Sibal on telecom audit remark.

Sibal’s comment on CAG ‘unfortunate’, says Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday described as “unfortunate” union Communications Minister Kapil Sibal questioning the methodology adopted by the Comptroller and Auditor (CAG) in concluding that the public exchequer had suffered a staggering loss of Rs.1.7 lakh crore in the allocation of 2G spectrum.

“It is unfortunate,” said the apex court bench of …. Source article  : Sibal’s comment on CAG ‘unfortunate’, says Supreme Court.

Pak Court dismisses plea seeking quashing of FIR, ATC trial against Taseer’s assassin

ISLAMABAD – The Islamabad High Court has dismissed a petition seeking quashing of the FIR and the trial against Malik Mumtaz Hussain Qadri, the assassin of late Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer.

On January 4, Taseer was assassinated by Qadri, one of his own elite security force protectors, who opened fire on him because of the governor’s … Read more : Pak Court dismisses plea seeking quashing of FIR, ATC trial against Taseer’s assassin.

Chinese adults can’t take parents’ money – that’s law

SHANGHAI – In a bid to ensure elderly persons’ social welfare, parents in an east China province have been empowered by a new law to decline their adult children’s monetary demands.

The People’s Congress of Jiangsu province passed an ordinance Friday which forbids adult children from demanding money or belongings from their parents in a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chinese adults can’t take parents’ money – that’s law.

Plea to hand over Karachi to army

ISLAMABAD – A constitutional petition has been filed in Pakistan’s Supreme Court for handing over Karachi to the army after more than 60 people lost their lives to violence in the first fortnight of 2011, a media report said.

Advocate Tariq Asad also pleaded in the petition for sacking of federal Interior Minister Rehman Malik, …. Read the original article  : Plea to hand over Karachi to army.

India’s human rights defenders need better protection: UN expert

UNITED NATIONS – An independent United Nations human rights expert has called on Indian authorities to do much more to ensure a safe and conducive environment for human rights defenders working in the country.

“I am particularly concerned at the plight of human rights defenders working for the rights of marginalised people, i.e. Dalits, Adavasis …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lawyers to file prosecution case against Yeddyurappa Monday

BANGALORE – With Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj late Friday permitting prosecution of beleaguered Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa on land scam and corruption charges, city lawyers Sirajin Basha and K.N. Balaraj have decided to file a criminal case in a special court here Monday.

“We are grateful to the governor for granting us permission to … Read : Lawyers to file prosecution case against Yeddyurappa Monday.

Gujarat acts to curb illegal mining after court’s intervention

GANDHINAGAR – Upbraided by the Gujarat High Court for its inaction in curbing illegal mining, the state government Friday told the court of the series of measures it has initiated to curb the malaise.

Mines and Minerals Secretary M. Sahu appeared in person before the bench of Chief Justice S.J. Mukhopadhaya and Justice Akil Kureshi …. Read the original article  : here.

Supreme Court bench again avoids Vedanta hearing

NEW DELHI – In a repeat, another bench of the Supreme Court Friday refused to hear the Orissa government’s petition on Vedanta University, noting that one of the judges had dealt with the case during his stint in Orissa High Court.

The is the second time the apex court avoided taking up the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court bench again avoids Vedanta hearing.

2G scam: ‘No disrespect to any institution’, says Sibal

NEW DELHI – After the Supreme Court and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) pulled him up for making statements that undermined the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on the 2G spectrum scam, Union Minister for Communication and Information Technology Kapil Sibal on … Read more >>.

Delhi government rescues mentally-ill woman off street

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court was Friday informed by the city government that a mentally-ill woman roaming on the streets of the capital for the past three years has been rescued and will be sent to the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS).

Delhi government\’s counsel gave this information during … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi government rescues mentally-ill woman off street.

Sibal claims no wrong as apex court, Joshi slam 2G remark (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – On a day of charges and rebuttals, Communications Minister Kapil Sibal was rebuked by the Supreme Court Friday for his remarks that the official auditor was \”utterly erroneous\” in assessing the loss on award of second generation (2G) telecom spectrum at Rs.1.76 lakh crore, while ordering an unbiased probe.

Soon after, parliament\’s Public … Original article on : Sibal claims no wrong as apex court, Joshi slam 2G remark (Roundup).

Rath fifth Lt. Gen. to face indiscipline charges

NEW DELHI – Lt. Gen. P.K. Rath, who was convicted in a land scam by a court martial Friday, is the fifth three-star army officer to have have faced such action. He is, however, the first serving lieutenant general to be convicted.

Rath, the former 33 Corps Commander, was found guilty on three counts …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rath fifth Lt. Gen. to face indiscipline charges.

Japan protests BBC jokes about atomic bomb survivor

LONDON – The BBC has been caught in a diplomatic row after Japan protested about a comedy quiz show of the broadcaster which has been accused of insulting a survivor of the two atomic bomb strikes on the country during the World War II.

The Japanese embassy said that in an episode of the show … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Japan protests BBC jokes about atomic bomb survivor.

Sukna scam: Court martialled Rath loses rank

SHILLONG – Lt. Gen. P.K. Rath, who was convicted in a land scam by a court martial a day earlier, was Saturday handed down a sentence including stripping off of his rank and forfeiture of 15 years of service for pension purposes.

The court martial against Rath, the first serving lieutenant general (Lt. Gen.) … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sukna scam: Court martialled Rath loses rank.

WikiLeaks leaker mistreated in custody: Lawyer

WASHINGTON – The 23-year-old US soldier who is alleged to have leaked thousands of secret documents to whistle-blower WikiLeaks was placed on suicide watch, stripped to his underwear and forced to stay in his cell round the clock, his lawyer has said.

The lawyer of US Army private Bradley Manning is accusing military authorities of … Read more »».

Proposed Goa police law has many defects, says Church

PANAJI – The Roman Catholic Church in Goa Saturday said the draft state police bill had “several defects” and criticised the select committee of the legislature for not holding public consultations on the proposed legislation.

The Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP), a social organisation of the church, in an official communiqu issued … Read more : Proposed Goa police law has many defects, says Church.

Pak Supreme Court moved for calling in army to stop bloodbath
in Karachi

ISLAMABAD – A petition has been moved in Pakistan’s Supreme Court over the continuous target killing incidents in Karachi.

Advocate Tariq Asad filed the petition under Article 184(3) of the Constitution, and made the federal government, through the Interior Secretary, Interior Minister, Sindh Chief Secretary, Sindh Home Secretary and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, respondents …. Read the original article  : Pak Supreme Court moved for calling in army to stop bloodbath
in Karachi.

US man sues hooker, seeks refund for committing illegal sex act on him

MELBOURNE – A New York college student has filed a lawsuit against the company of the dancer he hired during his Vegas vacation for committing an “illegal sexual act” on him.

According to the Las Vegas Sun, Hubert Blackman filed the suit in federal court in New York earlier this month against a Las Vegas company …. Original article  : US man sues hooker, seeks refund for committing illegal sex act on him.

Advocates file criminal cases against Yeddyurappa

BANGALORE – Two criminal cases were filed Saturday in a Bangalore court against Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa by two advocates, a day after Governor H.R. Bhardwaj granted them permission to prosecute him over corruption charges.

“As of now, we have filed two complaints,” advocates Sirajin Basha and K.N. Balaraj told reporters here.
“We can … Read more »»».

Australian gay couple wins parenting right to twins

MELBOURNE – An Australian gay couple, who had twin girls born through an Indian surrogate mother, has won a major legal case earning them the parenting rights here.

The 20-month-old girls were born in Mumbai to a woman who carried eggs from an anonymous donor impregnated with sperm from one of the men, Herald …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australian gay couple wins parenting right to twins.

Court asks for revised reports on Sabarimala stampede

KOCHI – A division bench of the Kerala High Court Monday asked the forest department and the devaswom department’s special commissioner in Sabarimala to revise their reports on the Jan 14 stampede that killed 102 people as there were too many discrepancies.

The bench comprising Justices Thottathil B. Radhakrishnan and P.S. Gopinathan had studied … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Court asks for revised reports on Sabarimala stampede.

Supreme Court issues notice to Centre on Radia tapes

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Monday sought a response from the Central Government on a plea for disclosure of the entire contents of corporate lobbyist Niira Radia’s conversation with politicians, journalists and corporate tycoons, which were tapped by the government … Read more >>.

ABVP protests against Jethmalani, EU observers

BILASPUR – Security was beefed up around the Chhattisgarh High Court here Monday after Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) cadres demonstrated against senior lawyer Ram Jethmalani and an eight-member European Union (EU) team which was here to attend rights activist Binayak Sen’s bail plea hearing.

As news spread that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Jethmalani … Read more : ABVP protests against Jethmalani, EU observers.

Apex court to examine mercy killing plea

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday said it would examine whether the right to live granted under Article 21 of the Constitution allows for passive euthanasia (mercy killing). The apex court was hearing a petition seeking mercy killing of a patient who is in coma since the last 36 years.

The apex court bench … Original article on : Apex court to examine mercy killing plea.

Apex court issues notice to centre on Radia-2G scam

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notice to the central government on a petition related to lobbyist Nira Radia and the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

The apex court bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and S.S. Nijjar also issued notice to the union home secretary on the petition filed by the Centre for Public … Read more »»».

Chhattisgarh HC to hear Binayak Sen bail plea

RAIPUR – The Chhattisgarh High Court today will hear a petition for the suspension of sentence and grant of bail of Human Rights activist Dr. Binayak Sen on Monday.

Sen was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment on sedition charges by a Additional District and Sessions Court at Raipur last month.

Senior lawyer Ram Jethmalani … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh HC to hear Binayak Sen bail plea.

Mexican singer appears in court to answer rape charges

Cancun (Mexico), Jan 24 (IANS/EFE) Singer Kalimba, who is being held at a prison in the Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo on rape charges, appeared before a judge and exercised his right not to make a statement during a four-hour hearing.

Judge Daniel Farah confirmed that the defence requested additional time to present evidence … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mexican singer appears in court to answer rape charges.

Kamal Nath summoned by US court in 1984 Sikh riots case

WASHINGTON – Indian Urban Development Minister Kamal Nath has been summoned by a New York court for a pre-trial conference Feb 9 for his alleged role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

The trial will proceed as the US State Department has declined to intervene in the case due to the seriousness of allegations of human … Read more »».

Problems in NRI voting rights being worked out: Vayalar Ravi

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Practical problems are being worked out to enroll non-residents Indians (NRIs), specially in the Middle East, on the electoral rolls, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi said here Sunday.

“Look, there are practical problems in enrolling them because close to 90 percent of NRIs are in the Middle East and it …. Read the original article  : here.

PM’s silence on Balakrishnan issue baffling: Krishna Iyer

KOCHI – Retired justice V.R. Krishna Iyer has now turned his guns on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for his silence on the allegations linked to former supreme court chief justice K.G. Balakrishnan.

Speaking to reporters at his residence here Sunday, Iyer said that he is baffled by the prime minister’s stoic silence … Read more >>>.

Steps taken by India to tackle black money

NEW DELHI – Following are the steps spelt out by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, which India has already taken and initiated to tackle the issue of black money abroad, estimated at between Rs.432 billion and $1.4 trillion:

-Constituted multidisciplinary panel to estimate illicit fund generated by Indians
-Vice-chair of Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange … Read more : Steps taken by India to tackle black money.

Black money row: Govt. has nothing to hide, says Mukherjee

NEW DELHI – After being criticized by the Supreme Court and the Opposition for its handling of black money deposited by industrialists and others in foreign bank accounts, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said the government has nothing to hide, and added …. Source  : Black money row: Govt. has nothing to hide, says Mukherjee.

No rehabilitation for 95 percent of rescued child labourers

NEW DELHI – Around 95 percent of child labourers rescued from various factory units in Delhi over a year are yet to be rehabilitated, making them more liable to going back into the vicious loop, point out activists who say over 500,000 children work in various industries in the Indian capital.

According to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No rehabilitation for 95 percent of rescued child labourers.

Black money abroad pegged at $500 bn to $1,400 bn: Mukjherjee

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday said $462 billion to $1.4 trillion in black money is estimated to have been stashed abroad by Indians and all steps were being taken to bring it back. But the names of the perpetrators can’t be revealed yet.

Unless legal provisions are in place in other countries, …. Original article  : Black money abroad pegged at $500 bn to $1,400 bn: Mukjherjee.

Supreme Court modifies words in Graham Staines murder verdict

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Tuesday modified a portion of its judgment in the Graham Staines murder case.

The apex court bench of Justice P. Sathasivam and Justice B.S. Chauhan, in a suo motu order modifying the judgment, said it was deleting the portion, which read that the guilty, Dara Singh, and his accomplice …. Source  : Supreme Court modifies words in Graham Staines murder verdict.

Trial court to give Godhra verdict: Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday declined to restrain the trial court in Gujarat from pronouncing its verdict in the Godhra train carnage case slated for Feb 19.

The apex court bench of Justice P. Sathasivam and Justice B.S. Chauhan said that “after asking the trial court to proceed with the trial, how are … Original article on : Trial court to give Godhra verdict: Supreme Court.

Court notice spells fresh trouble for Jagan, his firms

HYDERABAD – The notices issued by Andhra Pradesh High Court to former Congress MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy and dozens of companies which invested in his businesses may well be the beginning of troubles for the son of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy.

It was the main opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which had long … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Court notice spells fresh trouble for Jagan, his firms.

Kidney donor sacked for taking too much time off work

Venice, Jan 25 (IANS/AKI) A nursing home in the northern city of Venice sacked a 50-year-old woman carer for “taking too much time off” after she had donated one of her kidneys to save her sick brother, a media report said.

The woman, Francesca Scarpa received a phone-call from her employer telling her that her … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kidney donor sacked for taking too much time off work.

Trucker gets 34 years for deaths of 19 immigrants

Washington, Jan 25 (IANS/EFE) The driver of the truck in which 19 undocumented immigrants died nearly eight years ago from heat stroke and dehydration on a South Texas highway was re-sentenced Monday to almost 34 years in prison.

Federal prosecutors initially sought the death penalty for Tyrone Williams, a 39-year-old Jamaican-born US legal resident, for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US reviewing immunity for Kamal Nath in 1984 Sikh riots case

WASHINGTON – The United States is still reviewing whether Indian Urban Development Minister Kamal Nath, who has been summoned by a New York court for his alleged role in the1984 anti-Sikh riots, can be given diplomatic immunity.

“The immunity question remains under review here at the State Department, and we have not made any determination … Original source on Gaea Times at : US reviewing immunity for Kamal Nath in 1984 Sikh riots case.

Rights groups cry foul as Nepal denies torture at UN

KATHMANDU – As Nepal underwent the first periodic review of its human rights situation at the UN in Geneva, rights groups have said that security forces continue to practise “systematic torture” even four years after the end of a decade of communist insurrection that saw torture and extrajudicial killings.

The Nepal NGO Coalition for the …. Source  : Rights groups cry foul as Nepal denies torture at UN.

It’s season of petitions in Karnataka (Letter from Karnataka)

BANGALORE – Once hailed as a city of pensioners, this Karnataka capital has almost become a city of petitioners. Keeping track of pleas, both filed and planned, has become a major talking point.

Five complaints have been filed by two lawyers in two days in a city court against Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa over allegedly … Read more »».

Michael Jackson’s doctor pleads not guilty

LOS ANGELES – Michael Jackson’s former personal physician pleaded not guilty Tuesday to an involuntary manslaughter charge in the death of the former King of Pop in 2009.

“Your Honour, I’m an innocent man,” cardiologist Conrad Murray, 57, told Los Angeles Judge Michael Pastor when asked for his plea. “Therefore I plead not guilty.”
His …. Read the original article  : Michael Jackson’s doctor pleads not guilty.

Gays need more protection, says UN chief

GENEVA – Gays and lesbians need more support to protect their rights, even if homosexuality raises cultural issues in some parts of the world, the UN chief said Tuesday.

“We must reject persecution of people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity,” said UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.
“Cultural practice cannot justify any violation …. Original article  : Gays need more protection, says UN chief.

Bangladesh to clear beggars from streets ahead of World Cup

DHAKA – The Bangladesh government plans to clear beggars off the streets of capital Dhaka ahead of next month’s ICC World Cup, officials said Tuesday.

The beggars would be taken to rehabilitation centres, Home Minister Sahara Khatun told reporters after a meeting of the committee dealing with security during the World Cup.
Hawkers will also … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bangladesh to clear beggars from streets ahead of World Cup.

Court raps Delhi government, power regulator

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Tuesday pulled up the Delhi government and the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) over appointment of members of the power regulator, saying it is “not happy with the state of affairs”.

The division bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justice Manmohan sharply criticised the government and said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Next hearing on Binayak Sen’s bail plea Feb 9

BILASPUR – The Chhattisgarh High Court heard the bail plea of rights activist Binayak Sen for the second consecutive day Tuesday and then fixed Feb 9 for the next hearing.

Sen is at present lodged in a central jail in Raipur after he was sentenced to life term by a trial court in Raipur Dec … Read : Next hearing on Binayak Sen’s bail plea Feb 9.

Christians welcome modification of Staines murder verdict

BHUBANESWAR – Christian organisations Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court’s modification of a portion of its verdict in the Graham Staines murder case.

President of the Bangalore-based Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC) Sajan K. George thanked the court for setting the record straight sue motto in the right perspective.
“We welcome the modification,” George told …. Original source  : Christians welcome modification of Staines murder verdict.

‘Can’t reveal names yet of Indians with black money abroad’ (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Secrecy clauses in treaties with other countries are preventing the government from disclosing the names of Indians with black money abroad, estimated at $462 billion to $1.4 trillion, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said Tuesday.

“We have nothing to hide. But there are legal provisions,” the finance minister told a press conference here, …. Original source  : ‘Can’t reveal names yet of Indians with black money abroad’ (Roundup).

Myanmar, Indonesian tourists to get visa on arrival

NEW DELHI – The government Tuesday announced that it has extended its tourist visa-on-arrival facility for visitors from Myanmar and Indonesia to promote tourism.

The visa-on-arrival scheme was introduced from Jan 1, 2010 for five countries — Japan, Singapore, Finland, Luxembourg and New Zealand. It was extended for the nationals of Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and [..] Read the original article: here.

Another petition seeking Karachi handover to Pak Army filed in Supreme Court

QUETTA – Another petition seeking the handing over of Karachi to Pakistan’s Armed Forces has been filed in the Supreme Court’s Lahore registry.

Filed by one Rana Ilumddin, the petition stated that Karachi’s security situation was worsening and that was reflecting badly on the country’s economy, the Dawn reported.

It had become necessary to call the armed …. Original article  : Another petition seeking Karachi handover to Pak Army filed in Supreme Court.

Supreme Court asks Govt. to disclose real faces behind black money

NEW DELHI – Talking tough on the black money issue, the Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Government what action it had taken against individuals and firms having foreign accounts.

The apex court also issued notice to the Central Government, Home Ministry, Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), Enforcement Directorate (ED) and … Read more : Supreme Court asks Govt. to disclose real faces behind black money.

Black money: Apex court seeks details on government steps

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday asked the central government to furnish details of the steps it had taken to get back the black money stashed away in foreign banks.

The apex court bench of Justice B. Sudarshan Reddy and Justice S.S. Nijjar asked Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium to file an affidavit giving details … Original article on : Black money: Apex court seeks details on government steps.

Unaware of CVC Thomas case: Government to Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Government today told the Supreme Court that they were not aware of the cases pending against controversial Central Vigilance Commissioner PJ Thomas.

This was stated by Attorney General G E Vahanvati before a bench headed by Chief Justice S H Kapadia, which wanted to know if the issue of sanction and … Original article on : Unaware of CVC Thomas case: Government to Supreme Court.

CVC committee not told of pending chargesheet against Thomas

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court was told Thursday that the high-powered committee for the selection of central vigilance commissioner (CVC) was not informed about a pending chargesheet against P.J. Thomas and the sanction granted by the Kerala government to prosecute him in the palm oil import case.

The high-powered selection committee comprises Prime Minister …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Make son look after me, aged mother pleads with court

NEW DELHI – A 73-year-old woman in Delhi is battling it out in court with her son, pleading that she be looked after by him in her old age and be allowed to stay in the house where she lived with her husband.

Kamla Sharma, a resident of west Delhi, says her son refuses to …. Source  : Make son look after me, aged mother pleads with court.

‘Bunga bunga’ parties were dignified soirees, say Berlusconi’s lawyers

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s lawyers have claimed that his parties were not wild “bunga bunga” orgies but gentle soirees where modestly dressed young women sipped mineral water and watched movies.

As counter-attack to the allegations laid out by prosecutors over 616 pages citing various models and showgirls who attended the parties, Berlusconi’s lawyers … Read more »»».

Islamabad HC rejects petition for cancellation of case against Salman Taseer’s assassin

ISLAMABAD – The Islamabad High Court has set aside an intra-court appeal seeking cancellation of a case against late Punjab Governor Salman Taseer’s assassin Mumtaz Qadri, primarily on technical grounds.

A division bench of the IHC maintained that the appeal was not maintainable for hearing, as the appellant- Advocate Zaffar Awan of Chakwal- was not aggrieved … Original article on : Islamabad HC rejects petition for cancellation of case against Salman Taseer’s assassin.

Sikh group to challenge diplomatic immunity for Kamal Nath

WASHINGTON – A Sikh community group says it will challenge any effort by the Indian government to get diplomatic immunity for Urban Development Minister Kamal Nath for his alleged role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

The issue of diplomatic immunity is decided by the court and the US Department of State can only give …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sikh group to challenge diplomatic immunity for Kamal Nath.

Supreme Court to hear PIL seeking CVC Thomas removal

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will on Thursday hear a PIL challenging Central Vigilance Commissioner PJ Thomas’ appointment and seeking his removal.

The PIL filed by eminent citizens, including former Chief Election Commissioner J M Lyngdoh, said that Thomas is a tainted civil servant and chargesheeted in the Palmoline import scam in Kerala.

However, the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Supreme Court to hear PIL seeking CVC Thomas removal.

Dalai Lama goes hi-tech to reach ordinary Chinese

DHARAMSALA – The Dalai Lama is now relying on tools like videoconferencing and Twitter to bypass the Chinese establishment and reach out to the ordinary Chinese.

Interacting with Chinese rights activists for the first time through videoconferencing this month, the Tibetan spiritual leader said: “Even though our consistent stand of middle way policy based on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Dalai Lama goes hi-tech to reach ordinary Chinese.

Illinois SC allows Rahm Emanuel to run for Chicago’s Mayor post

WASHINGTON – The Illinois supreme court has finally allowed President Barack Obama’s former chief of staff Rahm Emanuel to run for the Mayor’s post in Chicago, overturning a lower court’s decision.

Earlier, an appellate court in Illinois had disqualified Emanuel saying that the former White House Chief of staff was not a resident of the city. …. Read the original article  : Illinois SC allows Rahm Emanuel to run for Chicago’s Mayor post.

Judge quashes rape charge against Mexican singer

Cancun, Jan 28 (IANS/EFE) Mexican singer Kalimba was exonerated Thursday on charges he raped a 16-year-old girl in the Caribbean state of Quintana Roo.

A judge in Chetumal, the state capital, said he had not found “sufficient evidence” to bring the case to trial.
It was shortly before 9 a.m. when Judge Daniel Farah Godoy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge quashes rape charge against Mexican singer.

Apex court, BJP question CVC’s appointment, Moily meets PM (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – The BJP Thursday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over the appointment of P.J. Thomas as the Central Vigilance Commissioner, saying the “trail” in the selection leads to his door even as the apex court wanted to know if the correct procedure was followed in selecting the corruption watchdog …. Original article  : Apex court, BJP question CVC’s appointment, Moily meets PM (Roundup).

India seeks report from missions over ’sham’ US university

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Thursday said India has sought a report from its missions in the US over the fate of Indian students after authorities closed down a California-based university on charges of visa fraud and illegal immigration.

“We have asked for a report from our embassy and from our consulate … Original source on Gaea Times at : India seeks report from missions over ’sham’ US university.

G.R.Sofi to head Kashmir Information Commission (Second Lead, superseding earlier story)

JAMMU – G.R.Sofi, a serving income tax officer, was Thursday appointed the Chief Information Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir. He will head the first information commission in the state.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand and opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti met in the afternoon and selected Sofi to …. Original source  : G.R.Sofi to head Kashmir Information Commission (Second Lead, superseding earlier story).

Court to hear legislator’s plea against NDMC

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Thursday decided to hear a plea of a legislator challenging a resolution of New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) to withdraw perks given to him as its elected and non-official member.

The division bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra fixed Feb 22 to hear the petition of legislator Karan …. Original article  : Court to hear legislator’s plea against NDMC.

UN officials visit Kolkata’s red light area

KOLKATA – A high profile UN team Thursday visited Asias largest red-light area here and urged an umbrella organisation of sex workers to prepare a scheme for their economic rehabilitation in old age.

“The umbrella body – Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee (DMSC) – is running a cooperative society involving the sex-workers. We have asked …. Original source  : UN officials visit Kolkata’s red light area.

Ex-RAW official who disrobed in court to undergo check-up

NEW DELHI – A former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) woman official who tried to disrobe before a Delhi High Court bench Jan 20 is to be examined by the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS).

The court Thursday agreed to the institute’s plea that the woman official, Nisha Bhatia, needed to remain …. Original article  : Ex-RAW official who disrobed in court to undergo check-up.

Tiwari paternity suit: Plea challenging DNA test hearing Feb 7

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Thursday deferred till Feb 7 hearing on Congress leader N.D. Tiwari’s plea challenging its directive to undergo DNA test to determine if he was the biological father of a young man who has made the claim.

Challenging the single bench’s order, Tiwari filed an appeal before …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Canada to throw out billionaire kin of Tunisia dictator

TORONTO – With a billionaire brother-in-law of the ousted Tunisian dictator Zine el Abidine Ben Ali fleeing with his family to Montreal last week, Canada Friday said it was taking steps to remove him from the country.

Billionaire businessman Belhassen Trabelsi, who has been accused of amassing wealth by looting the Tunisian people, landed in … Original article on : Canada to throw out billionaire kin of Tunisia dictator.

Court martial of Indian general gets Pakistan chief justice thinking

ISLAMABAD – Citing the example of a serving Indian Army general who was court-martialled, Pakistan Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry has wondered “why don’t a few top guns in our country get booked for their wrongdoings”, and added, “It is high time that some heads roll”.

Justice Chaudhry made the observation while hearing the case …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Court martial of Indian general gets Pakistan chief justice thinking.

Burmese Supreme Court refuses to hear Suu Kyi party’s appeal

YANGON – Myanmar’s highest court has refused to hear a case filed by pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi seeking to overturn the government’s dissolution of her political party.

The Supreme Court ruled the appeal had no legal basis; the Scotsman quoted her lawyer, as saying.

Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy lost its legal status …. Source article  : Burmese Supreme Court refuses to hear Suu Kyi party’s appeal.

Cuban dissident briefly detained for second time

Havana, Jan 29 (IANS/EFE) Cuban dissident Guillermo Farias, winner of the European Parliament’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Conscience in 2010, was briefly detained for a second time this week in the central city of Santa Clara.

Alicia Hernandez, mother of the 49-year-old psychologist and independent journalist known for staging more than a score of …. Original article  : Cuban dissident briefly detained for second time.

Obama talks tough with embattled Mubarak

WASHINGTON – As revolt swept key ally Egypt, US President Barack Obama asked Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to make good on his promises and avoid a violent response to the thousands of protesters in the streets. Obama spoke with Mubarak shortly after the latter addressed his country saying he was asking his government to make … Original article on : Obama talks tough with embattled Mubarak.

Obama calls on Mubarak to respect rights of Egyptians

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama called Friday for the Egyptian government to respect the rights of its people, following days of protests demanding the ouster of President Hosny Mubarak.

The US leader spoke from the White House, shortly after telephoning with Mubarak, who had just given his address vowing not to step down but … Read more >>>.

Supreme Court orders status quo for Vedanta University project

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court on Friday ordered status quo in respect of land acquired or sought to be acquired for the proposed Vedanta University project at Puri in Orissa.

An apex court bench of Justices D K Jain and H L Dattu ordered status quo on …. Read the original article  : Supreme Court orders status quo for Vedanta University project.

‘This is not America’, court tells married man in live-in relationship

NEW DELHI – “This is not America”, is what the Delhi High Court Friday told a 22-year-old woman in a live-in relationship with her brother-in-law, who had deserted her sister and two children and sought the court protection on the ground that they faced a threat to their lives from her family members.

Justice Hema …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘This is not America’, court tells married man in live-in relationship.

Neelam Krishnamoorthy opposes adjournment of plea against Ansals

NEW DELHI – Neelam Krishnamoorthy, president of Association of the Victims of Uphaar Tragedy (AVUT), Friday strongly opposed the plea of Sushil and Gopal Ansal, owners of Uphaar theatre, seeking adjournment of hearing in a case relating to allegedly threatening and abusing her in 2007.

“The ex-parte stay granted to the accused (Ansals and others) … Original article on : Neelam Krishnamoorthy opposes adjournment of plea against Ansals.

Court appoints amicus curiae in Ishrat Jahan case

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Friday appointed senior advocate Yogesh Lakhani as amicus curiae for the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the Ishrat Jahan alleged staged shoot-out case.

A division bench of Justice Jayant Patel and Justice Abhilasha Kumari also directed the SIT to respect the spirit of its order and conduct itself in …. Source article  : Court appoints amicus curiae in Ishrat Jahan case.

Thousands march against corruption in Pune, Aurangabad

PUNE/AURANGABAD/MUMBAI – Marking the 63rd death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, thousands of people participated in a protest march against corruption in Pune and Aurangabad Sunday, an official said.

The march, that is taking place simultaneously in 60 cities across India, is part of an anti-graft campaign by civil society groups.
“In Pune, we have made … Original source on Gaea Times at : Thousands march against corruption in Pune, Aurangabad.

India protests, community angered as sham US varsity students tagged (Night Lead)

WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI – Some of the Indian students duped by a ’sham’ university in California have been forced to wear radio-trackers around their ankles, triggering a wave of anger through the Indian community. India said the use of monitors was “unwarranted” and raised the issue with the US deputy ambassador Saturday.

Some 1,555 students …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India protests, community angered as sham US varsity students tagged (Night Lead).

India protests as sham US varsity students radio-tagged (Third Lead)

WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI – After being duped by a ’sham’ university in California, some of the affected Indian students have been forced to wear radio-trackers around their ankles to the chagrin of the Indian community. India said the use of monitors was “unwarranted” and raised the issue with the US deputy ambassador Saturday.

Some 1,555 students … Read more >>.

India protests as students of sham US varsity tagged (Second Lead)

WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI – After being duped by a ’sham’ university in California, some of the affected Indian students have been forced to wear radio-trackers around their ankles to the chagrin of the Indian community. India Saturday said it has told US that the use of monitors was “unwarranted” and demanded the immediate removal of the … Read more >>>.

India protests radio-tagging of duped Indian students in US

NEW DELHI/WASHINGTON – India Saturday said it has told United States that the use of monitors on some duped Indian students of closed American Tri-Valley University by authorities was “unwarranted” and demanded the immediate removal of the measure.

The Tri-Valley University (TVU) in Pleasanton, a suburb in San Francisco Bay Area, was raided Tuesday and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US opens helpline for ’sham’ varsity’s students

WASHINGTON – The US authorities have opened a helpline for the Indian students of a ’sham’ university in California, while asking some of them to wear radio trackers around their ankles as the case proceeds.

Some 1,555 students of Tri-Valley University, 95 percent of them from India, mostly Andhra Pradesh face the prospect of deportation … Original article on : US opens helpline for ’sham’ varsity’s students.

Anti ‘honour-based’ marriage law sought in New Zealand

AUCKLAND – Various ethnic women groups in New Zealand have urged the government to make a law which can prevent forced marriages, as an escalating number of high-risk young victims are coming forward to seek help.

Shakti, which runs refuges for Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern women in New Zealand, has joined with Pacific …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Anti ‘honour-based’ marriage law sought in New Zealand.

Police encounters developing culture of slaying people with indemnity: Pak SC

ISLAMABAD – Expressing its disapproval over fake encounters, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has observed that such incidents had developed a culture of slaying people with indemnity.

The court disapproved of the method adopted by the Punjab Police for reducing the crime rate by resorting to fake encounters, the Daily Times reported.

On a suo motu case …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Police encounters developing culture of slaying people with indemnity: Pak SC.

Abandoned by all, Indian boy finds Italian home

NEW DELHI – He may have failed to find an Indian home, but an abandoned two-year-old boy with African features is finally set to get a loving family. A Delhi court has allowed an Italian couple to adopt him.

Little Partha, who has been living in Mamata care centre in south Delhi’s Vasant Vihar area, …. Original article  : Abandoned by all, Indian boy finds Italian home.

Mirchpur violence: Apex court pulls up Haryana government

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday pulled up Haryana government for failing to clear the national highway blockades by the Jat community protesting the arrests of its members allegedly involved in Mirchpur village attack on Dalits.

The apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice Asok Kumar Ganguly told the Haryana government …. Read the original article  : Mirchpur violence: Apex court pulls up Haryana government.

2G scam: Justice Patil probe panel submits report

NEW DELHI – The one man committee headed by retired Supreme Court Justice Shivraj Patil on Monday submitted the report on 2G spectrum allotment scam to Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal.

Patil after submitting the report to Sibal, told the reporters that the terms of the probe were to look at the procedure of issuing licences …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam: Justice Patil probe panel submits report.

Chirac’s lawyers to seek postponement of fraud trial on grounds of Alzheimer’s

PARIS – Lawyers representing former French president Jacques Chirac have claimed that may have Alzheimer’s disease, and therefore, may not be in a position to face a corruption trial next month.

The Independent quoted the Paris-based newspaper Journal du Dimanche, as saying on Sunday that defence lawyers are expected to use a procedural hearing Monday to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chirac’s lawyers to seek postponement of fraud trial on grounds of Alzheimer’s.

Panel on 2G spectrum submits report, names errant officials

NEW DELHI – Former Supreme Court judge Shivraj V. Patil Monday submitted his report on the procedures followed in awarding airwaves for second generation (2G) telecom services between 2001 and 2009, and identified some errant officials.

“We have identified some officials on whose part there have been some deficiencies and lapses. We have also suggested …. Original source  : Panel on 2G spectrum submits report, names errant officials.

Corporate mafia fuelling corruption: Prashant Bhushan (Interview)

NEW DELHI – He is credited with convincing the apex court to monitor the CBI probe into the 2G spectrum allocation scandal. Activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan says “India is heading towards a mafia state” and corporate houses have become “a law unto themselves”.

“The corporate mafia has come to control every institution of power and …. Source article  : Corporate mafia fuelling corruption: Prashant Bhushan (Interview).

Hundreds of Bihar junior doctors strike work

PATNA – Hundreds of junior doctors in Bihar went on an indefinite strike Monday, demanding action against a Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) legislator and his bodyguard who fired at three interns of a hospital in Gaya district.

Three interns of the Anugrah Narain Magadh Medical College Hospital (ANMCH) in Gaya, about 100 km from …. Original source  : Hundreds of Bihar junior doctors strike work.

Actors, filmmakers protest Binayak Sen’s jail term

MUMBAI – About 150 people marked the Martyrs Day Sunday by staging a protest in Mumbai as part of a nationwide agitation against the life imprisonment awarded to rights activist Binayak Sen.

The group that included artists, activists and common people chanted slogans like “Shame on you, Chhattisgarh government” and “Free Dr. Binayak …. Source article  : Actors, filmmakers protest Binayak Sen’s jail term.

Rally in Chhattisgarh supports Binayak Sen

RAIPUR – Dozens of members of the People’s Union of Civil Liberties (PUCL) and activists of Left parties marched here Sunday to support rights activist Binayak Sen, convicted on sedition charges last month by a court here.

The PUCL members and workers of the Communist Party of India, the Chhattisgarh Mukti Morcha, the Adivasi Mahasabha …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2G scam, Radia tapes, black money cases at apex court this week

NEW DELHI – For the central government battling legal cases on senstive issues, it is a crucial week ahead at the Supreme Court. At least four major legal tangles, riveting the nation’s attention, are slated at the apex court.

The four cases closely followed across the nation are: the 2G …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam, Radia tapes, black money cases at apex court this week.