Political News – Monthly Newsletter February 2011

Congress wins Chandigarh mayor poll by one vote

CHANDIGARH – The ruling Congress Saturday managed to scrape through in the crucial election for the mayor of Chandigarh.

Congress candidate Ravinder Pall Singh won by just one vote, defeating the rebel Congress candidate, Jagjit Singh Kang.
Out of the 33 votes counted, Ravinder Pal Singh got 17 while Kang got 16.
Kang, a Congress … Read : Congress wins Chandigarh mayor poll by one vote.

Pak forms probe team to see if Benazir murder plot was hatched in Brigadier’s house

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Government has set up a joint investigation team (JIT) comprising three officials of the police, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to investigate media reports that the plot to assassinate former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto had been hatched in a brigadier’s house.

The JIT has been asked present …. Source article  : Pak forms probe team to see if Benazir murder plot was hatched in Brigadier’s house.

Pak security forces have not committed rights violation: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has rejected charges of human rights violations by security forces made in a US State Department report, terming it part of propaganda to malign the country’s institutions.

“There is no question of human rights violations (by them),” the Dawn quoted Gilani, as saying.

“They want to malign our institutions,” …. Original article  : Pak security forces have not committed rights violation: Gilani.

Japan PM might visit China to improve the soured bilateral ties

BEIJING – Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan is reportedly considering a visit to China next spring with the intention of improving the soured bi-lateral ties.

The China Daily quoted the Kyodo News Agency as saying that if the visit takes place, Kan hopes to improve the bilateral “strategic and mutually beneficial relationship” between both nations. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Japan PM might visit China to improve the soured bilateral ties.

North Korea says it wants to defuse tension with South

SEOUL – North Korea said Saturday in a New Year message that it wanted to reduce tension with the South but warned of a “nuclear holocaust” if there is another war on the peninsula, a media report said.

The call came against the background of a year in which tension between the two states reached …. Read the original article  : here.

Iran denies WikiLeaks report that Ahmadinejad was slapped

TEHRAN – Iran has denied a WikiLeaks report that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was slapped by the chief of the country’s Revolutionary Guards, the Tehran press reported Saturday.

According to a leaked US diplomatic cable, General Mohammad-Ali Jafari slapped Ahmadinejad in early 2010, as Tehran was still dealing with the fallout from a disputed election.
… Original article on : Iran denies WikiLeaks report that Ahmadinejad was slapped.

Dozens arrested after protests across Russia

MOSCOW – Dozens of Kremlin critics protesting for political reform in Russia were arrested Friday when security forces broke up the marches, which had not been approved by authorities, reported Interfax.

The agency reported that more than 120 protesters had been detained after gatherings in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Separately, authorities said numerous young people …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dozens arrested after protests across Russia.

Statement by President Barack Obama on Removal of HEU from Ukraine

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For Immediate Release

“I congratulate President Yanukovych on the recent shipment of highly enriched uranium from Ukraine for secure disposal in Russia, which advances a top priority …. Original article  : Statement by President Barack Obama on Removal of HEU from Ukraine.

Flag row: BJP workers burn Patnaik’s effigy

BHUBANESWAR – Hundreds of activists of the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party’s youth wing Friday burnt an effigy of Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for his “disrespect” to the national flag.

Shouting slogans against the chief minister and carrying placards and banners, the activists also criticized the police for its role in the incident.
“Police … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Flag row: BJP workers burn Patnaik’s effigy.

Armed cadres cannot maintain law and order, Chidambaram tells Buddhadeb

NEW DELHI – Describing the killings of political workers in West Bengal as “alarming”, Home Minister P. Chidambaram has in his latest missive to Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee said armed cadres cannot take on the role of maintaining law and order.

In a letter written to Bhattacharjee Thursday, copy of which was released on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Armed cadres cannot maintain law and order, Chidambaram tells Buddhadeb.

Chouhan is ‘Kans mama,’ says Digvijay Singh

BHOPAL – Digvijay Singh, All India Congress Committee general secretary and former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, Friday took on his successors, describing present Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as “Kans Mama” (Uncle Kans).

He also suggested that former chief minister Uma Bharti should become a full-time “sadhwi” (ascetic).
The reference is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chouhan is ‘Kans mama,’ says Digvijay Singh.

Congress demands arrest of ‘rapist’ BSP legislator

LUCKNOW – The Congress’s Uttar Pradesh unit Friday demanded “immediate arrest” of a ruling Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) legislator and his cohorts allegedly involved in gang-rape of a minor girl in Banda district.

“BSP MLA (member of legislative assembly) Purushottam Narain Dwivedi not only raped the 17-year old girl, belonging to the socially backward Nishad …. Original source  : Congress demands arrest of ‘rapist’ BSP legislator.

Govt. will work with renewed resolve for welfare of people: PM’s New Year message

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday greeting the nation on the eve of the New Year 2011, said the government led by him will work with renewed resolve for the welfare of the people.

Dr. Singh in his message said:”I wish all our citizens a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Manmohan Singh to inaugurate 98th Indian Science Congress

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will inaugurate the 98th Indian Science Congress in Tamil Nadu’s Chennai city on Monday.

The five-day Congress, which will be held from January 3 to 7, will witness the participation of scientists and academicians from all over the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh to inaugurate 98th Indian Science Congress.

JPC deadlock persists but speaker hopes for smooth budget session

NEW DELHI – The two-day talks between the government and opposition parties to resolve the impasse over the demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam failed to find a solution though Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar noted party leaders were keen to ensure that parliament’s budget session is not …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : JPC deadlock persists but speaker hopes for smooth budget session.

Aound 60 percent polling in Karnataka district polls

BANGALORE – The second and penultimate phase of elections to Karnataka’s local governing body councils Friday ended peacefully with about 60 percent of over 15 million voters in 17 districts casting their ballots.

“About 60 percent voting has been recorded,” a state Election Commission official told IANS at the end of the day’s polling to … Read more »».

Gallantry awardees to get free parking passes in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH – The Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh has worked out a new year gift for the city’s gallantry award winners — free car parking.

The Municipal Corporation, in recognition of the gallantry displayed by defence personnel and other brave people in various operations, Friday announced that it would issue free passes for parking cars in …. Original source  : Gallantry awardees to get free parking passes in Chandigarh.

President, Vice President greet nation on New Year’s eve

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil and Vice President Hamid Ansari Friday greeted the nation on New Year’s eve and hoped that 2011 would bring in peace, harmony and all-round progress to the people of the country.

Conveying her wishes to the people in the country and abroad, Patil said: “Let us take a New [..] Read the original article: here.

24 leaders visited India in ‘landmark’ 2010 diplomacy year

NEW DELHI – As 2010 drew to a close, the external affairs ministry Friday hailed it as a landmark year in Indian diplomacy that saw India hosting 24 visiting leaders, including all permanent members of the UN Security Council, and 30 foreign minister-level visitors.

“2010 was an eventful year for Indian diplomacy, … Original article on : 24 leaders visited India in ‘landmark’ 2010 diplomacy year.

Talks stalled as Gujjars seek leaders’ response

JAIPUR – Talks between the Gujjars and Rajasthan’s ministerial committee Friday got caught in a new tangle as the agitators first sought feedback on their demands from the community leaders who are part of the state’s Congress government.

Colonel (retired) K. S. Bainsla, convener of the Gujjar Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti spearheading the agitation …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Talks stalled as Gujjars seek leaders’ response.

At 85, Queen will not slow down in 2011

LONDON – British Queen Elizabeth II, who increased the number of her public engagements in 2010, is set to be busier this year, a media report said Sunday.

Most people of her age would have retired long ago, but the 84-year-old monarch carried out 444 engagements in 2010 – 69 more than in 2009. Her … Read : At 85, Queen will not slow down in 2011.

India’s UN envoy has no problem with pat down searches (With Hardeep Puri main interview)

WASHINGTON – As a “global citizen” India’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Hardeep Singh Puri, has no problem with the controversial ‘pat down’ searches at US airports and seeks no exemption for himself.

“There is no controversy whatsoever. Insofar as I am concerned, no pat down took place,” Puri told IANS referring to an …. Read the original article  : India’s UN envoy has no problem with pat down searches (With Hardeep Puri main interview).

We will have Security Council reform by end 2011-beginning 2012: Hardeep Puri (Interview)

WASHINGTON – As India takes a seat on the Security Council Monday after 19 long years as a non-permanent member, its top UN diplomat, Hardeep Singh Puri, is hopeful that New Delhi will gain a permanent place on the global high table by next year as he expected “Security Council reform” to take place by … Read more : We will have Security Council reform by end 2011-beginning 2012: Hardeep Puri (Interview).

Investigation agencies must disclose names of Benazir’s killers: Qureshi

BHALWAL – Pakistan’s State Minister for Interior Tasneem Ahmed Qureshi has asked the investigation agencies, which probed former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, to disclose the names of her killers.

“Now, investigation agencies had better disclose names of murderers on their own as …. Read the original article  : Investigation agencies must disclose names of Benazir’s killers: Qureshi.

Congress trying to make Sanjay Gandhi scapegoat for Emergency misdeeds: Advani

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L.K. Advani Sunday charged the Congress with trying to make the late Sanjay Gandhi a scapegoat for all the misdeeds during the the Emergency and said its promulgation was an unforgivble crime against democracy”.

In the latest post “Emergency of 1975 akin to Nazi rule” on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bihar legislator 1st Indian to hit Nepal headlines in 2011

KATHMANDU – As Nepal kicked off its tourism year Saturday, along with 10 other foreign visitors, a legislator from Bihar became the first Indian to hit the headlines in the Himalayan republic in 2011 – but for the wrong reason.

Sarfaraz Alam, elected from Jokihat in Araria district as a ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) candidate, … Read : Bihar legislator 1st Indian to hit Nepal headlines in 2011.

Nitish Kumar’s mother cremated

PATNA – Parmeshwari Devi, mother of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, was cremated at the Digha ghat on the bank of the Ganga here Sunday.

Parmeshwari Devi, 92, died Saturday afternoon after a prolonged illness.
Her elder son Satish Kumar lit the pyre while Nitish Kumar was present by his side.
Most cabinet colleagues …. Original source  : Nitish Kumar’s mother cremated.

Gilani resolves to launch “jihad” against corruption in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed his government’s resolve to launch a “jihad” against corruption in 2011.

“It is our resolve for the new year to launch “jihad” against corruption. I have talked to Nawaz Sharif so that we can adopt the accountability bill with consensus. And it is done in a … Read : Gilani resolves to launch “jihad” against corruption in Pakistan.

Brand India may finally win the day against China: Expert

NEW DELHI – Giving a twist to the much-touted race between the Indian elephant versus the Chinese dragon, an eminent expert on ‘nations branding’ says although China’s economy may be far bigger and its military superior, Brand India may just win the game as the world identifies with its values of plurality, diversity and tolerance.

… Original article on : Brand India may finally win the day against China: Expert.

Pakistan, India cannot afford war: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and India cannot afford a war, Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said, stressing that dialogue is the only way to resolve outstanding issues between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

Responding to a question on the Pakistan-India relationship during his maiden appearance in a live television show, the prime minister said dialogue is … Read more »»».

China puts history of communist party online

BEIJING – Chinese websites and news portals have begun running a special column describing major events in the history of the Communist Party of China (CPC) as part of the 90th anniversary celebrations of the ruling party.

“Today in Party’s history”, showing the party’s milestone events in a calendar format, was compiled by the Party … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China puts history of communist party online.

New era in Brazil: Rousseff becomes first female president

BRASILIA – Left-wing economist Dilma Rousseff, 63, was inaugurated Saturday as the first female president of Brazil, succeeding her popular mentor Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

In her inaugural address in the building that houses the lower house of the Brazilian Congress in the capital, Brasilia, Rousseff vowed that overcoming extreme poverty will be her …. Original source  : New era in Brazil: Rousseff becomes first female president.

Statement by the President on the terrorist attacks in Egypt and Nigeria

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For Immediate Release

I strongly condemn the separate and outrageous terrorist bombing attacks in Egypt and Nigeria. The attack on a church in Alexandria, Egypt caused 21 … Read : Statement by the President on the terrorist attacks in Egypt and Nigeria.

Rousseff inaugurated as Brazil’s first female president

BRASILIA – Left-wing economist Dilma Rousseff, 63, was inaugurated Saturday in Brasilia as the first female president in the history of Brazil.

She succeeded her mentor Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who left office with record popularity but could not stay on due to constitutional limits on consecutive presidential terms.
Rousseff was inaugurated in lower … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rousseff inaugurated as Brazil’s first female president.

Karnataka district polls end, outcome to decide Yeddyurappa’s fate

BANGALORE – Karnataka Saturday completed the three-phase elections to local governing bodies with the results on Jan 4 likely to decide the fate of land scam-hit Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa.

In the last phase, polling took place Saturday in Gulbarga district for the 43 zila (district) and 155 taluka (sub-district) panchayats with over 60 percent …. Original source  : Karnataka district polls end, outcome to decide Yeddyurappa’s fate.

President spends New Year’s Day in Diu

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil spent the New Year’s Day with her family in Diu where she is on a week-long vacation, according to sources.

During her stay in the union territory, Patil will visit several historic places like old churches, jail, the Nagwa beach and is also expected to offer prayers at Gangeshwar … Original source on Gaea Times at : President spends New Year’s Day in Diu.

Lalu Yadav visits Jagannath temple to celebrate New Year

PURI – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav visited the Jagannath temple here on Saturday to mark the beginning of the New Year with god’s blessings.

After his visit to the temple, Yadav told reporters that he came here to pray for his well-being and a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lalu Yadav visits Jagannath temple to celebrate New Year.

JD-S to stall Karnataka legislature till Yeddyurappa quits

BANGALORE – The Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) Saturday announced it would not allow the Karnataka legislature, which begins its session Jan 6, to function till Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa quits.

“Yeddyurappa has to go,” former chief minister and JD-S state president H.D. Kumaraswamy told reporters here after meeting Governor H.R. Bhardwaj to greet him on New …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Weekly Address: Democrats and Republicans Have Shared Responsibility to Move America Forward

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For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – In his weekly address, President Obama resolved to do everything he can to make sure the economy is growing, creating jobs, and …. Read the original article  : Weekly Address: Democrats and Republicans Have Shared Responsibility to Move America Forward.

US in secret talks with Syria over peace deal with Israel

KUWAIT CITY – The US has been in secret contact with Syrian officials in the hopes of realising a comprehensive Israel-Syrian peace treaty, the Kuwaiti al-Rai newspaper reported Saturday.

The past few weeks had witnessed an “unprecedented Syrian cooperation” in the peace process, prompting Washington to talk with Syrian officials to reach a peace agreement …. Read the original article  : US in secret talks with Syria over peace deal with Israel.

After Sukhoi, President Patil to ride a golf cart

PANAJI – After making history by flying in a frontline Sukhoi fighter jet a couple of years ago, President Pratibha Patil will hop on to a rather modest machine on her way to a beach here Tuesday – a golf cart.

Patil, who landed in Goa Monday on a four-day private visit to the … Original article on : After Sukhoi, President Patil to ride a golf cart.

Manmohan Singh wants Indian scientists to think out of the box

CHENNAI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Monday said that Indian scientists needed to think “out of the box” for scientific advancement and innovations in the country.

Addressing the 98th Indian Science Congress here, Dr Singh said: ” The time has come for Indian science to once again think … Original article on : Manmohan Singh wants Indian scientists to think out of the box.

Congress-DMK ties strong, intact, assert PM, Karunanidhi

CHENNAI – Putting to rest speculation about a strain in the Congress-DMK ties, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Monday spoke in one voice after their meeting here and said the alliance was “strong” and “intact”.

Manmohan Singh, who met the DMK leader here, said the relationship was …. Read the original article  : Congress-DMK ties strong, intact, assert PM, Karunanidhi.

Think big, work with diaspora: PM urges scientists

CHENNAI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday stressed on attracting the young Indian diaspora through joint research projects while urging Indian scientists to “think big” and “out of the box” for scientific advancement and innovations in the country.

“I would like to see more joint research projects between Indians in India and those abroad …. Original article  : Think big, work with diaspora: PM urges scientists.

Gilani seeks support from PML-Q to save government

ISLAMABAD – In an ironic twist, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Monday sought the support of the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), the second largest opposition party in parliament, to shore up his coalition a day after the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) walked out.

Gilani telephoned PML-Q leader Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain early Monday morning seeking his … Read more : Gilani seeks support from PML-Q to save government.

Former Speaker Bali Ram Bhagat Dead

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Bali Ram Bhagat, the ace Congress leader, left for the heavenly abode, at Apollo hospital on Sunday, in New Delhi, at 2.30 am, after undergoing intense treatment for kidney and liver problems. He is survived by his son, wife Vidhya Bhagat and daughter. He was 89.
His body will be brought …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Former Speaker Bali Ram Bhagat Dead.

MQM will stand by PPP after ‘realising ground realities’: Kaira

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira has said that prime minister has to take the vote of confidence only once, and that has already been done.

In an exclusive chat with SAMAA TV, Kaira tried to downplay the Muttaheda Qaumi Movement’s decision to sit on the opposition benches, saying that the coalition partner … Read this article on Gaea Times at : MQM will stand by PPP after ‘realising ground realities’: Kaira.

Karunanidhi meets PM, says DMK-Congress ties still strong

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi met Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh here today, and said the ties between the Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK) and Congress are still strong.

“It is as strong as the ties between you (media) and me,” he told reporters after meeting.

He said he had also requested Dr. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karunanidhi meets PM, says DMK-Congress ties still strong.

Alliance with DMK strong: PM

CHENNAI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi here, Monday said that ties with the DMK were “strong and cordial”.

“The alliance with DMK is strong and cordial,” Manmohan Singh told public broadcaster Doordarshan on the sidelines of the 98th Indian Science Congress.
Karunanidhi, who did not meet the … Read more »».

South Korea still open to dialogue with North

SEOUL – South Korea is willing to talk peace with its Stalinist neighbour, President Lee Myung Bak said Monday, but warned the North Korean regime that it must back up its words with deeds.

“I remind the North that the path toward peace is yet open. The door for dialogue is still open,” Lee said … Read more »»».

Centre gives Chandigarh Rs.31 mn for Garden of Spring

CHANDIGARH – The union territory of Chandigarh is all set to come up with a Garden of Spring that would showcase over 150 species of plants and trees to attract tourists to the city of gardens.

According to the Chandigarh administration, the union tourism ministry has sanctioned over Rs.31 million (Rs. 311.50 lakh) for establishing [..] Read the original article: here.

Michelle Obama Pregnant Rumor

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Is Michelle Obama pregnant? The question has hit the web and has spread like wildfire all over. It seems as if the new year is bringing with it new rumors, this time with the First Lady expecting a baby. Even though the news have spread all over the web, the White …. Read the original article  : Michelle Obama Pregnant Rumor.

Indian scientists need to think big: PM

CHENNAI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday urged Indian scientists to “think big” and “out of the box” for scientific advancement and innovations in the country.

“The time has come for Indian scientists to think big, think out of the box. The time has come to produce Ramans and Ramanujans as we usher in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pir Pagara asks Gilani to ‘quit honourably’ as PPP loses majority

LAHORE – Pakistan Muslim League- Functional (PML-F) President Pir Pagara has advised Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani to ‘quit honourably’, rather than being dislodged after humiliation.

On Sunday, the PPP-led Pakistan government lost its majority in the National Assembly, as Muttahida Qaumi Movement, which has 25 MNAs, decided to sit on the Opposition benches on account … Original article on : Pir Pagara asks Gilani to ‘quit honourably’ as PPP loses majority.

Nepal Maoists threaten to move court over UN

KATHMANDU – With the life of the UN agency directly involved in Nepal’s peace process ending in 12 days time and the caretaker government not ready to seek another extension for the world body, the opposition Maoist party has threatened to move court to force the ruling alliance change its mind.

“Centrist forces are plotting … Read more : Nepal Maoists threaten to move court over UN.

MQM bombshell leaves PPP-led Pak coalition govt in crisis

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP)-led government has suffered a severe blow following its key ally Muttaheda Qaumi Movement’s decision to sit in the opposition benches in parliament, leaving Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani as Leader of the House without a …. Read the original article  : here.

Karunanidhi meets PM, says alliance is intact

CHENNAI – DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Raj Bhavan here Monday morning and said the “alliance is intact”.

The meeting at the Raj Bhavan lasted 25 minutes. Karunanidhi had not met the prime minister as expected Sunday, when Manmohan Singh arrived here.
“The alliance … Original source on Gaea Times at : Karunanidhi meets PM, says alliance is intact.

Iranian president fires 14 senior advisors

TEHRAN – Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has fired 14 of his senior advisors, the Mehr news agency reported Sunday.

One of the president’s most senior advisors and closest aide for five years, Mehdi Kalhor, confirmed the dismissals, including his own, but said he did not know the reason.
The media and cultural advisor said he …. Read the original article  : Iranian president fires 14 senior advisors.

Talks between Rajasthan government, Gujjars on

JAIPUR – Talks were on here between the agitating Gujjars and a three-member ministerial committee of the Rajasthan government after the community members Sunday finally decided to send a 51-member delegation for discussions, after a gap of 13 days, on their demand for reservations in government jobs.

The talks which started at around 7 p.m. … Original article on : Talks between Rajasthan government, Gujjars on.

PM, Karunanidhi meeting does not materialise

CHENNAI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh arrived here Sunday but his expected meeting with DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi late in the evening did not take place.

It was being expected that the prime minister and Karunanidhi would meet at the Raj Bhavan after the former’s arrival from New Delhi, … Original article on : PM, Karunanidhi meeting does not materialise.

BJP MLA Raj Kishore Kesri stabbed to death in Purnea

PURNEA – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Bihar’s Purnea district, Raj Kishore Kesri was stabbed to death by a woman visitor at his residence this morning.

The attacker, a teacher in a private school, had accused Kesri of raping her on different occasions over the last three years.

She is in serious condition after the MLA’s …. Source article  : BJP MLA Raj Kishore Kesri stabbed to death in Purnea.

Iran to invite EU, US to visit nuclear sites

TEHRAN – Iran said Tuesday that it planned to invite the European Union (EU) and the US to inspect its nuclear sites this month.

Tehran would invite representatives from the six countries engaged in nuclear talks with it – Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and its political archfoe the US – as well as the … Read more : Iran to invite EU, US to visit nuclear sites.

BJP chief Nitin Gadkari lays stress on accountability in party work

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Nitin Gadkari has urged state party presidents to bring in more accountability and transparency in their dealings, during a teleconference with ten state units.

‘There should be evaluation of the work done. State presidents should give an account of the work done,’ Gadkari said, adding that he too … Original article on : BJP chief Nitin Gadkari lays stress on accountability in party work.

Trinamool Congress spreading violence, accuses Buddhadeb

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee haslammed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party for creating a culture of violence in the state.

Addressing a rally here on Monday, Bhattacharjee said: “The opposition party is spreading a blanket of violence over the state. They want power, they want to destroy the State Assembly, they want control …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Trinamool Congress spreading violence, accuses Buddhadeb.

Zardari “solidly stands behind Gilani” against any attempt to destabilise Pak Govt

KARACHI – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has thrown his weight behind beleaguered Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani against any attempt to destabilise the coalition government.

Zardari called Gilani on Monday and discussed the ongoing political situation, and assured him of full support of the party.

“Zardari has full confidence in the PM and solidly stands …. Source  : Zardari “solidly stands behind Gilani” against any attempt to destabilise Pak Govt.

BJP takes early lead in Karnataka district polls

BANGALORE – Karnataka’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday took early leads in polls to the local governing councils, the winning of which is crucial for Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa to stay in office.

Of the 30 zila (district) panchayats, the BJP was leading in 14, the Congress in seven and the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) …. Source  : BJP takes early lead in Karnataka district polls.

Vote counting for Karnataka district polls begins

BANGALORE – Counting of votes polled for the Karnataka local governing councils began at 171 centres across the state Tuesday morning.

Over 65 percent of the 21 million voters, nearly half of them women, cast their ballots in the elections to the 30 zila (district) and 176 taluka (sub-district) panchayats Dec 26, Dec 31 and …. Source article  : Vote counting for Karnataka district polls begins.

Schwarzenegger makes way for Brown on California stage

SACRAMENTO – Democrat Jerry Brown was sworn in Monday as California governor, replacing former action movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger who completed two terms in office and is not allowed to run again.

Brown, 72, also served for two terms beginning in 1975, before the current term limits were passed into law. He is thus both …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Schwarzenegger makes way for Brown on California stage.

Readout of the Deputy National Security Advisor’s Recent Trip to Afghanistan

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For Immediate Release

Deputy National Security Advisor Denis McDonough traveled to Afghanistan last week, arriving Monday night and returning home on Friday. The purpose of the trip … Original article on : Readout of the Deputy National Security Advisor’s Recent Trip to Afghanistan.

Schwarzenegger cuts prison sentence of ally’s son

SACRAMENTO – Just hours before his term as California governor was to end Monday, Arnold Schwarzenegger reduced the prison sentence of the son of a political ally who was sentenced to 16 years for a 2008 murder.

The move by the former action movie star was made Sunday night as his reign over the financially …. Read the original article  : Schwarzenegger cuts prison sentence of ally’s son.

Statement by the President on signing the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act

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"I was honored to sign the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act to ensure that rescue and recovery workers, residents, students, and others …. Original source  : Statement by the President on signing the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.

Statement by The Press Secretary

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For Immediate Release

On Sunday, January 2, 2011, the President signed into law: H.R. 847, the “James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act,” which establishes the World … Read more : Statement by The Press Secretary.

Krishna to visit Afghanistan Jan 8-9

NEW DELHI – Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna will be visiting Afghanistan on a two-day trip from Jan 8.

A press release by the external affairs ministry said Krishna will be travelling to Afghanistan Jan 8-9 at the invitation of Afghan Foreign Minister Zalmay Rassoul.
“The visit is part of the regular high level …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Krishna to visit Afghanistan Jan 8-9.

Moily takes on Jaitley over IT report on Bofors scam

BANGALORE – Law and Justice Minister M. Veerappa Moily Monday lashed out at senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Arun Jaitley for trying to link Italian businessman Ottavio Quattorcchi to the Congress or its leaders.

Reacting to Jaitley’s comments on the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal order that Quattrocchi and his partner Win Chadha had received a …. Original article  : Moily takes on Jaitley over IT report on Bofors scam.

Congress undecided on disrupting Karnataka house

BANGALORE – The Congress, the main opposition party in Karnataka, indicated Monday it has not decided yet on joining the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) in disrupting the legislature session beginning Jan 6 to force land-scam hit Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa to quit.

“We will carry on the oust Yeddyurappa campaign in both the assembly and the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Congress undecided on disrupting Karnataka house.

UAE to have non-resident envoy to Nepal

Dubai, Jan 3 (IANS/WAM) The ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India has been concurrently appointed non-resident ambassador to Nepal.

Mohamed Sultan Al Owais presented his credentials to Nepal President Ram Baran Yadav in Kathmandu and conveyed the best wishes of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The UAE’s envoy to [..] Read the original article: here.

Elizabeth’s 1957 video has one mn hits on YouTube

LONDON – The first-ever Christmas video message by Britain’s Queen Elizabeth in 1957 has received over one million hits on video-sharing website YouTube.

The Royal family launched a dedicated channel on the website in 2007. This winter the channel passed a milestone of nine million views.
The queen’s 1957 address has received around 1.2 million …. Read the original article  : Elizabeth’s 1957 video has one mn hits on YouTube.

TDP’s Telangana leaders want party to boycott Jan 6 meeting

HYDERABAD – After the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) decided to boycott the Jan 6 all-party meeting called by Home Minister P. Chidambaram on the Srikrishna committee’s report, leaders of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from Telangana have also urged the party leadership to stay away.

TDP Telangana Forum, which represents … Original source on Gaea Times at : TDP’s Telangana leaders want party to boycott Jan 6 meeting.

BJP pulls up Congress, demands SIT probe in Bofors case

NEW DELHI – Following an Income Tax Tribunal claims that kickbacks of Rs 41 crore were paid to late Win Chaddha and Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi in the Howitzer gun deal, the Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) on Monday slamming the ruling Congress party demanded that the government … Read more : BJP pulls up Congress, demands SIT probe in Bofors case.

Illegal immigrants should be removed from voters list in Assam: Goel

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Vijay Goel on Monday demanded that the illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, who are presently living in Assam should be removed from the voters list.

After submitting a memorandum to …. Read the original article  : here.

No going back on Telangana: Congress MP

NEW DELHI – There cannot be a compromise on Telangana, senior Congress leader K. Keshava Rao reaffirmed Wednesday, a day before a meeting of political parties from Andhra Pradesh called by Home Minister P. Chidambaram.

The meeting has been convened to discuss the Srikrishna Committee report on Telangana issue. The report, submitted to the home …. Source article  : No going back on Telangana: Congress MP.

Saudi Arabia captures ‘Israeli spy’ vulture

LONDON – A vulture tagged by Israeli scientists was “arrested” on suspicion of being a Mossad spy after the bird strayed into Saudi Arabian territory, a media report said Wednesday.

The bird was found in a rural area wearing a transmitter and a leg bracelet bearing the words ‘Tel Aviv University’, the Daily Mail reported … Original source on Gaea Times at : Saudi Arabia captures ‘Israeli spy’ vulture.

Nawaz Sharif gives Gilani 72 hour ultimatum on reform

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif has given a 72 hour ultimatum to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani to agree to key reforms, or face expulsion from the government in Punjab province.

Addressing a press conference after chairing the PML-N’s Central Organising Committee’s meeting, Nawaz said the government must reverse the price … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nawaz Sharif gives Gilani 72 hour ultimatum on reform.

Can’t act against Congress minister: Omar

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said Wednesday he cannot take action against Congress minister Sham Lal Sharma for calling for a trifurcation of the state.

I cannot take any action against the minister. As his party (Congress) has said nothing to him, how can I? In the given situation, I can … Read more »»».

Culprits behind Taseer’s assassination will be brought to justice: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Condemning the assassination of Pakistan Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said the culprits would be brought to justice.

Gilani also called on workers and supporters of his Pakistan People’s Party “to remain calm” to allow a proper investigation.

“The Prime Minister has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident [..] Read the original article: here.

Omar rejects rotational chief ministership

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Wednesday said he would not vacate his post for his alliance partner Congress, insisting that he was “chief minister for six years”.

He was addressing a press conference to mark the completion of his two years in office.
Omar Abdullah intervened when a reporter asked his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Omar rejects rotational chief ministership.

Farooq asks separatists to talk to central government

JAMMU – Union minister and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah Wednesday asked the separatists to come forward and engage in a dialogue with the central government to resolve the Kashmir issue.

Commenting on the observations of Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq that Kashmiris had lost faith in the UN, Abdullah told mediapersons here: “He’s …. Source article  : Farooq asks separatists to talk to central government.

Trial of Khaleda Zia’s younger son begins in absentia

DHAKA – The trial has begun here in absentia of former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia’s younger son Arafat Rahman Koko, who is charged with graft and money laundering.

Koko moved to Bangkok in 2008. His trial began Tuesday amidst reports of a Singapore court convicting a Singaporean citizen who kept Koko’s laundered money … Read more : Trial of Khaleda Zia’s younger son begins in absentia.

Chandigarh mayor’s election generates heat and dust

CHANDIGARH – Chandigarh’s mayoral election is generating a lot of political heat after the Congress candidate won the poll by a controversial single vote.

Congress candidate Ravinder Pal Singh won by one vote.
The opposition parties, mainly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Akali Dal, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and a Congress rebel, Jagjit …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Readout of the meeting of the President and National Security Advisor with Chinese Foreign Minister Yang

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

National Security Advisor Tom Donilon met today with Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi in the White House to discuss U.S. – China relations and [..] Read the original article: here.

Statement by the Press Secretary

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For Immediate Release

On Tuesday, January 04, 2011, the President signed into law:
 
H.R. 81, the “Shark Conservation Act of 2010 and International Fisheries Agreement Clarification Act,” which [..] Read the original article: here.

US dismisses Iranian inspection offer as ‘magical mystery tour’

WASHINGTON – Iran’s offer to allow western countries to visit its nuclear facilities is a “magical mystery tour” that does not bring the country into compliance with its international obligations, the US State Department said Tuesday.

The US has not received an invitation from the Iranian government, which had earlier said it would allow the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US dismisses Iranian inspection offer as ‘magical mystery tour’.

Remarks by the President to the Travel Pool aboard Air Force One en route Andrews Air Force Base

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For Immediate Release

Location: 

Aboard Air Force One, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Remarks by the President to the Travel Pool aboard Air Force One en route Andrews Air Force Base.

Obama seeks break from political wrangling

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama Tuesday appealed to his Republican opponents to take a break from politicking and focus on the economic recovery as he and lawmakers return to the US capital this week from a holiday break.

His plea comes as Republicans have vowed to try to undo many of Obama’s policy priorities …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama seeks break from political wrangling.

Digvijay Singh’s statements benefit Pakistan: BJP

NEW DELHI – After Congress leader Digvijay Singh presented records of his conversation with slain Mumbai ATS chief Hemant Karkare, the BJP said they were more concerned about Singh’s statements that “boost the morale of Pakistan”.

Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Congress party should also serve a privilege notice to Maharashtra …. Original article  : Digvijay Singh’s statements benefit Pakistan: BJP.

BJP seeks apology from PM over Quattrocchi

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday sought an apology from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for giving a “clean chit” to Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi in the Bofors kickback case, and said government agencies were involved in saving Quattrocchi because of his “proximity to the Gandhi family”.

BJP spokesman Ravi Shankar Prasad said … Read more : BJP seeks apology from PM over Quattrocchi.

Congress demands assembly probe in Vibrant Gujarat irregularities

GANDHINAGAR – The Congress party in Gujarat Tuesday demanded setting up of a joint legislative committee to probe irregularities in the Vibrant Gujarat investor summit. The government, however, termed it the party’s attempt to avoid the demand for a joint parliamentary committee probe in a series of national scams.

In a statement issued here, Leader …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Congress demands assembly probe in Vibrant Gujarat irregularities.

NDA will support bill on Telangana, says Gadkari

HYDERABAD – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari Tuesday said if the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government tables a bill in parliament for formation of a separate Telangana state, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would wholeheartedly support it.

Addressing a public meeting organized by the party at Adilabad, about 300 km from here, Gadkari …. Original source  : NDA will support bill on Telangana, says Gadkari.

Digvijay presents records of Karkare phone call, demands apology

NEW DELHI – Congress general secretary Digvijay Singh Tuesday released records of his phone call to Hemant Karkare and demanded a public apology from those doubting he had made the call to the slain anti-terror squad chief a few hours before the 26/11 attacks.

He also demanded an apology from Maharashtra Home Minsiter R.R. Patil … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Digvijay presents records of Karkare phone call, demands apology.

BJP illegally collecting election funds: Congress

BHOPAL – The Congress Tuesday accused Madhya Pradesh’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Prabhat Jha of illegally collecting funds from people for party candidates contesting the Jan 6 municipal elections.

Spokesperson of Madhya Pradesh Congress J.P. Dhanopia wrote to the state Election Commission Tuesday and demanded action under the model code of conduct.
Municipalities to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Opposition forces Karnataka governor to cut short speech

BANGALORE – Slogan shouting opposition rooting for Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa’s resignation over land scams Thursday forced Governor H.R. Bhardwaj to give up his speech to the joint sitting of the state legislature.

The Congress and Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) members were up on their feet as soon as Bhardwaj entered the state assembly hall at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Srikrishna finds case both for and against separate Telangana

HYDERABAD – The Srikrishna Committee has in its report found that there is a case both for formation of a separate Telangana state as well as for keeping Andhra Pradesh united.

The five-member committee, whose report was made public Thursday, felt the balance tilting in favour of keeping the state united but suggested that the …. Source  : Srikrishna finds case both for and against separate Telangana.

Consider Srikrishna report with open mind: Chidambaram (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Thursday urged political parties to consider the Srikrishna Committee report on Telangana statehood “with an open mind”.

“I would urge you to read the report and the recommendations with an open mind and be prepared to persuade, and to be persuaded by, people who hold another point of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Consider Srikrishna report with open mind: Chidambaram (Second Lead).

Will react on Balakrishnan issue at right time: CPI-M

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Thursday said it will react at an “appropriate time” on the allegations of corruption against former chief justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan.

State Home Minister and CPI-M politburo member Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said his party will act in a responsible manner.
“We will meet and discuss and then … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Will react on Balakrishnan issue at right time: CPI-M.

Chidambaram regrets boycott of Telangana meet

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Thursday regretted the boycott of the meeting here on Telangana by the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Telugu Desam Party (TPD).

I note that some political parties invited to this meeting have chosen not to attend. I deeply regret the stand taken by them. …. Source  : Chidambaram regrets boycott of Telangana meet.

No option except Telangana acceptable, says TRS

HYDERABAD – The Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) and Telangana leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Thursday voiced their disappointment over the Srikrishna Committee report and said no option except formation of a separate Telangana state is acceptable to them.

TRS legislator K. Tarakarama Rao told reporters that the only practical solution was formation of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No option except Telangana acceptable, says TRS.

Six options on the Telangana tangle

NEW DELHI – The following are the six options given by the Justice Srikrishna Committee on the vexed issue of separate statehood for Telangana to be carved out of Andhra Pradesh:

– The committee has recommended letting Andhra Pradesh be united and have special constitutional measures for development of the Telangana region.
– The second [..] Read the original article: here.

Gujjars start returning home from rail tracks

JAIPUR – Hundreds of Gujjars, squatting on railway tracks near Bayana in Bharatpur district for the past 17 days to press their demand for job quotas, have started packing their bags to return home after an agreement with the Rajasthan government.

The Gujjars were Wednesday assured five percent quota in government posts following several … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gujjars start returning home from rail tracks.

Meet on Telangana starts

NEW DELHI – Political parties from Andhra Pradesh, barring the TRS and TDP as well as the BJP, met here Thursday morning to discuss the Srikrishna committee report on Telangana called by Home Minister P. Chidambaram.

The Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS), which has been spearheading the movement for formation of a separate state, the … Read more : Meet on Telangana starts.

High inflation remains a cause of concern: C Rangarajan

NEW DELHI – Expressing concern over the skyrocketing prices of commodities, Dr. C Rangarajan, Chairman of Indian Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, said high inflation remained a cause of worry for the government.

Talking to reporters here on Wednesday, Rangarajan asserted that inflation above five percent would be troublesome for the Indian economy.

“Well, if the overall … Read more »».

BJP to go ahead with flag hoisting in Srinagar

JAMMU – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will go ahead with its plans to hoist the Indian tricolour at the historic Lal Chowk in Srinagar on Republic Day despite Chief Minister Omar Abdullah having cautioned the party against it, a party official said Thursday.

Reacting to the chief minister’s assertions Wednesday that hoisting the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP to go ahead with flag hoisting in Srinagar.

Massive security in Andhra ahead of Srikrishna report

HYDERABAD – Massive security arrangements have been made in Andhra Pradesh Thursday in view of the Srikrishna committee’s report on the Telangana issue that will be made public by the central government in the evening after an all-party meet in New Delhi.

Police and central paramilitary forces were deployed in Hyderabad and nine other districts …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Massive security in Andhra ahead of Srikrishna report.

Message from the President to the Congress Regarding the Census

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For Immediate Release

TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
Pursuant to title 2, United States Code, section 2a(a), I transmit herewith the statement showing the apportionment population …. Source article  : Message from the President to the Congress Regarding the Census.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

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For Immediate Release

Terence Francis Flynn, of Maryland, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring August 27, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Daniel M. Ashe, of Maryland, to be Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, vice Samuel D. Hamilton. (Originally nominated on 12/6/10)
 
Thomas … Read more »».

Clinton meets China’s foreign minister ahead of Hu visit

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton met Wednesday with Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi to prepare for this month’s visit by President Hu Jintao.

President Barack Obama will host Hu at the White House Jan 19 for a prestigious state visit, but important issues will be lingering in the discussions between the … Read more »».

President Obama Announces Another Key Administration Post, 1/5/11

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For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key Administration post:

Terence F. Flynn, Member, National Labor … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Announces Another Key Administration Post, 1/5/11.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 1/5/11

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For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key Administration posts:
 

Brigadier General Allison A. Hickey, USAF (Ret.), … Read more : President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 1/5/11.

Republicans stake claim on new US Congress

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama is gearing up for a tougher second half of his term in the White House as a new Congress was sworn in Wednesday with Republicans back in control of the House of Representatives.

John Boehner will lead the conservative party’s charge after being elected the new speaker of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/5/2011

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For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press … Read more »»».

General Vang Pao Passes Away At 81

LOS ANGELES, (GaeaTimes.com)- General Vang Pao, a former general of the Royal Army of Laos had passed away late Thursday. He had been suffering from Pneumonia for the last 10 days, due to which he was hospitalized in Clovis Community Medical Center. He was 81 at the time of his death.
General Vang Pao played …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : General Vang Pao Passes Away At 81.

Sri Lanka calls local elections for March

COLOMBO – The Sri Lankan government Friday announced local elections would be held in March, but delayed them in urban areas.

The government dissolved 308 local councils with effect from midnight Thursday, prompting the polls, but elections have been delayed in 19 municipal councils in the main towns, Local Government Minister A.L.M. Athaullah said.
“We … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka calls local elections for March.

MQM set to rejoin PPP-led Pak coalition govt

KARACHI – Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), the estranged ally of the Pakistan People’s Party, has expressed its willingness to rejoin the PPP-led government if Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani takes concrete steps to remove its reservations.

In its Coordination Committee’s joint meeting, MQM discussed the party strategy in view of Gilani’s expected visit to party headquarters …. Read the original article  : MQM set to rejoin PPP-led Pak coalition govt.

Cross-border terror backed by official agencies: India

NEW DELHI – Ahead of Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s expected visit this year, India Friday said it has been a victim of cross-border terror backed by official agencies and reminded Islamabad about bringing the perpetrators of 26/11 strike to justice.

“We have been victims of the most vicious kind of cross-border … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cross-border terror backed by official agencies: India.

Meghalaya riot toll rises, curfew relaxed

SHILLONG – Curfew was relaxed in Meghalaya’s Resublepara area Friday as the toll in the ethnic clashes between Garo and Rabha tribals rose to eight with the recovery of three bodies and one person dying of his injuries, officials said.

Curfew in the Resublepara sub-division in East Garo Hills district bordering Assam was relaxed for …. Source  : Meghalaya riot toll rises, curfew relaxed.

Gadkari in Assam, minus security from state government

GUWAHATI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari arrived here Friday for the party’s two-day national executive meeting amid protests from party workers at the Assam government’s decision not to provide him with security escort from the airport to the city.

It is indeed shocking to find no security escorts for our president …. Source  : Gadkari in Assam, minus security from state government.

Police face media fury over Patil’s beach photo

PANAJI – The hauling of three photojournalists to the police station who photographed President Pratibha Patil while she was sunning herself at a Goa beach during a private visit here has not been taken to kindly by the local media.

Published photographs showed the 73-year-old president in a yellow printed sari, lounging on Benaulim … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police face media fury over Patil’s beach photo.

Manmohan Singh dedicates Tarapur reprocessing plant to nation

TARAPUR – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday dedicated a 100-tonne annual capacity reprocessing plant at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre ( BARC) here to the nation.

The plant will use spent fuel from indigenous nuclear power plants for fast breeder reactors.

Congratulating engineers and scientists for constructing the sophisticated complex in the coastal … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh dedicates Tarapur reprocessing plant to nation.

Indian missions in Afghanistan under constant threat: Krishna

NEW DELHI – A day before he leaves for Afghanistan, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Friday said Indian missions in that country were under constant threat but President Hamid Karzai had promised full security.

“Our embassy and four consulates are under constant threat. We are working with the Afghan government to ensure that they …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian missions in Afghanistan under constant threat: Krishna.

Security tightened around Bangladesh PM following militant threat

DHAKA – Security has reportedly been tightened around Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed in wake of Islamic militants threatening to assassinate her and to blow up a high-security jail in Chittagong.

Police said that the militants want their associates released from prison within a month, and therefore, have issued a threat.

The letter’s sender … Read : Security tightened around Bangladesh PM following militant threat.

Farooq Abdullah slams BJP plan to hoist national flag in Srinagar

NEW DELHI – Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah on Friday slammed the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for insisting on hoisting the national flag on Republic Day (January 26) in the state.

“The flag that we will hoist is not the Indian flag? Is only their flag Indian? Are the BJP people the … Read more >>.

Krishna dismisses speculation about his ouster

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Friday dismissed speculation in a section of the media about a move to replace him and stressed that it was the prerogative of the prime minister to take a decision on it.

“The speculation is the exclusive prerogative of the ladies and gentlemen of media. You …. Read the original article  : Krishna dismisses speculation about his ouster.

Monthly passport courts soon, promises Krishna

NEW DELHI – Monthly passport ‘adalats’, or settlement courts, would be introduced soon to speed up the issuing of passports and redress the applicants’ grievances, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said Friday.

Most passports were delayed because of “incomplete applications and delay in police verifications”, Krishna said at a press conference here.
He said …. Source  : Monthly passport courts soon, promises Krishna.

MQM decides to rejoin Pakistan’s ruling coalition

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) estranged ally Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has decided to rejoin the ruling coalition if Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani takes concrete steps to withdraw the increase in prices of petroleum products, the Geo News reported Friday.

In its coordination committee’s joint meeting Thursday night, the MQM discussed the …. Original source  : MQM decides to rejoin Pakistan’s ruling coalition.

Pakistan-Multiple Crises (re-issue)

NEW DELHI – Two to three years has been the average life span of elected governments in Pakistan ever since Z A Bhutto was PM from 1973 to 1977. His daughter Benazir alternated with her rival Nawaz Sharif from 1988 till 1999 when the Mian Sahib was overthrown by yet another saviour in Khaki, General …. Original source  : Pakistan-Multiple Crises (re-issue).

‘Pakistan negotiating drone deal with US’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan, which wants American drones for taking on militants, is still working on a deal with the US to acquire its own fleet of the surveillance aircraft, a media report said Friday.

The drone system, for which negotiations are on between the two countries, is known as Shadow-200 and is currently used … Original article on : ‘Pakistan negotiating drone deal with US’.

Vietnam accuses US diplomat of causing public disorder

HANOI – A US diplomat apprehended outside a Vietnamese dissident’s house had caused public disorder and the case would be considered by the authorities, state media said Friday.

Christian Marchant, an official of the US embassy in Hanoi, was interviewed by security forces after trying to visit Catholic priest and dissident Thadeus Nguyen Van Ly …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Theatre emerging as the new diplomatic tool

NEW DELHI – Theatre, an emerging diplomatic tool promoting people-to-people contact and understanding of diverse cultures, has a shared language in the Asia-Pacific region and a drama school meet here is trying to carry the commonalities forward to address issues like identity, politics and culture.

The ongoing Asia Pacific Bureau Drama Schools’ Meet 2011 at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Readout of the Vice President’s Meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The Vice President met with Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara today in the White House.  They discussed a wide range of bilateral, regional, and …. Source article  : Readout of the Vice President’s Meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara.

UN and China discuss Korean peninsula situation

NEW YORK – UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi exchanged views Thursday on the situation in the Korean peninsula, expressing the need for peace and stability in the Northeast Asian region.

The meeting at UN headquarters in New York followed Yang’s visit to Washington for talks to prepare Chinese President …. Original source  : UN and China discuss Korean peninsula situation.

UN mired in exit row in Nepal

KATHMANDU – With just a week left for its exit from Nepal’s flailing peace process, the UN has become mired in an ugly row with the government, army as well as the opposition Maoist party which has accused it of raising the spectre of President’s Rule, an army-backed coup and a Maoist war on the … Read more »».

Gadkari slams UPA over corruption, says NDA will rule in 2014

GUWAHATI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) began its two-day national executive here Saturday with party chief Nitin Gadkari launching a blistering attack on the UPA government on charges of rampant corruption, and pledged to work even harder to capture power in New Delhi in the 2014 general elections.

“Congress under the UPA-II presides over …. Source article  : Gadkari slams UPA over corruption, says NDA will rule in 2014.

More Indian cultural centres to showcase soft power: PM

NEW DELHI – India will set up cultural centres in five more countries to showcase its soft power and acquire a global footprint for its rich diversity, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said here Saturday.

“Richness of Indias classical traditions and the colour and vibrancy of contemporary culture are making waves around the world,” the prime …. Source  : More Indian cultural centres to showcase soft power: PM.

Rahul to tour Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi will visit colleges in Uttar Pradesh Monday and Tuesday in a bid to attract new members to the National Students Union of India (NSUI).

Gandhi will interact with college students in Jhansi, Allahabad, Varanasi, Lucknow and Agra “to spread awareness about the NSUI membership drive”, NSUI Uttar Pradesh … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rahul to tour Uttar Pradesh.

Goa gets first air conditioned public toilet

PANAJI – Goa’s first air conditioned public toilet was Saturday installed at Chief Minister Digambar Kamat’s legislative assembly constituency in Margao, 35 km from here.

The toilet was built at a cost of Rs.20 lakh, which was shared between the local municipality and sanitation specialist Sulabh International (SI), according to a SI spokesperson. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Goa gets first air conditioned public toilet.

Two-day BJP national executive meet begins

GUWAHATI – The two-day Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national executive opened here Saturday morning with party chief Nitin Gadkari, senior leader L.K. Advani and other leaders in attendance.

The meeting was formally inaugurated at 11.30 a.m.
The other leaders present are Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
The meet is being …. Original source  : Two-day BJP national executive meet begins.

Weekly Address: President Obama Touts Benefits of Tax Cut Package to Take Place in the New Year

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For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – In his weekly address, President Obama looked forward to how the tax cut package he signed into law in December will benefit … Original article on : Weekly Address: President Obama Touts Benefits of Tax Cut Package to Take Place in the New Year.

North Korea seeks talks with South in a month

SEOUL – North Korea Saturday renewed its call for unconditional talks with South Korea and proposed they be held within a month.

“We formally propose an unconditional and early opening of the talks between the authorities of the North and the South,” the North’s Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Fatherland said in a … Read : North Korea seeks talks with South in a month.

BJP to focus on corruption, price rise at executive

GUWAHATI – The two-day national executive of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) opens here Saturday and the party is all set to hit out at the UPA government on issues of corruption and price rise, although RSS leader Swami Aseemanand’s confession about his role in the 2007 Samjhauta Express blast has dimmed the party mood … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BJP to focus on corruption, price rise at executive.

Readout of the meeting of the National Security Advisor with Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara

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National Security Advisor Tom Donilon met today with Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara in the White House.  They held an in-depth discussion of regional … Read more : Readout of the meeting of the National Security Advisor with Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara.

Statement by the President on H.R. 6523

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Today I have signed into law H.R. 6523, the "Ike Skelton National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011."  The Act authorizes funding for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the President on H.R. 6523.

Alagiri has not resigned: Karunanidhi

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Friday refuted media reports about his son and union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister M.K. Alagiri resigning his post.

“He has not given any letter to me. They are media reports,” Karunanidhi told reporters here.
It was earlier reported that Alagiri had resigned from the cabinet and also …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Alagiri has not resigned: Karunanidhi.

Remarks by the President on the December Jobs Report and Economic Personnel Announcements

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Thompson Creek Manufacturing, Landover, …. Read the original article  : Remarks by the President on the December Jobs Report and Economic Personnel Announcements.

Killings a murder of the constitution: Mamata

MIDNAPORE – Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Friday termed the killings of seven people in the state’s troubled West Midnapore district as “genocide” and “murder of the constitution”.

“This killing is not only barbaric, ghastly, unconstitutional and undemocratic but it is actually murder of the constitution. It is genocide. There is no law and order … Read : Killings a murder of the constitution: Mamata.

‘Disturbed’ Narayanan asks Bengal government to act decisively

KOLKATA – Saying he was “deeply disturbed and concerned” over the killing of seven people in a clash between two groups Friday near Maoist-affected Lalgarh, West Bengal Governor M.K. Narayanan urged the government to act “decisively” before the violence reaches a point of no return.

“I am deeply disturbed, saddened and concerned over the killing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Disturbed’ Narayanan asks Bengal government to act decisively.

Chidambaram summons Buddhadeb to Delhi ‘immediately’

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Friday summoned West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee to Delhi “immediately” in the wake of the “grave incident” of seven deaths in fresh political violence in the Maoist hub of Lalgarh.

“I have written a letter to the chief minister and drawn his attention to this grave incident …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chidambaram summons Buddhadeb to Delhi ‘immediately’.

CPI-M trying to retain power by killing people, says Mamata

KOLKATA – Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Friday charged the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) with trying to retain power in West Bengal by resorting to killings and said people will give a befitting answer to “bullets” through the “ballot”.

“They are committing these atrocities only to retain power. Their cadres are being given arms. … Read more >>.

Aseemanand’s confession: Congress for strict action against RSS

NEW DELHI – The Congress Friday asked the government to take strict action against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in the wake of Swami Aseemanand’s reported confession of his involvement in terror activities including the Samjhauta train blast.

Terming it as “Sanghi terrorism”, Congress spokesman Shakeel Ahmed said Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders should … Original article on : Aseemanand’s confession: Congress for strict action against RSS.

Presidential Memorandum – Disestablishment of United States Joint Forces Command

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MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
 
SUBJECT:          Disestablishment of United States Joint Forces
                           … Read more : Presidential Memorandum — Disestablishment of United States Joint Forces Command.

Seven people die in firing, CPI-M blamed (Third Lead)

LALGARH – Seven people were shot dead and 12 wounded near this Maoist hub in West Bengal Friday, saprking allegations that the killers were sheltered in a camp set up by the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M). The Marxists denied involvement.

The Trinamool Congress shot off letters to Home Minister P. Chidambaram and the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Seven people die in firing, CPI-M blamed (Third Lead).

Manmohan Singh proud of Indians community’s contribution in Malaysia

NEW DELHI – Talking to a 240-member delegation led by Malaysia’s special envoy for infrastructure Samy Vellu in Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in New Delhi, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said that he feels very proud when leaders of other countries praise and appreciate the role of Indian communities in their nation-building efforts.

He also expressed …. Source  : Manmohan Singh proud of Indians community’s contribution in Malaysia.

Nepal will initiate “new process” if PM not elected by January 12

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s Speaker Subas Nemwang has said parliament would initiate a “new process” if the Prime Minister is not elected by January 12.

Xinhua quoted Nemnwang, as saying that the existing PM election process would end if the parties fail to reach a consensus by January 12.

However, he did not clarify what the new process … Read : Nepal will initiate “new process” if PM not elected by January 12.

Gandhi family behind ‘Hindu atankwad’: Gadkari

GUWAHATI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Gadkari has described Swami Aseemanand’s alleged disclosures in connection with the Mecca Masjid case as a conspiracy hatched by Congress President Sonia Gandhi and party General Secretary Rahul Gandhi.

Addressing the BJP’s National Executive meeting in Guwahati on Saturday, Gadkari said: “Whether they talk about the involvement of … Read more >>.

Congress first family should explain Bofors: BJP

GUWAHATI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national executive Sunday decided to take the issue of corruption and scams to the people and the judiciary, while sharpening its attack on Congress president Sonia Gandhi by seeking an explanation on the Bofors kickbacks.

The BJP national executive has decided to take the issue of corruption and … Read more : Congress first family should explain Bofors: BJP.

Voting begins in Southern Sudan independence poll

JUBA – Southern Sudanese went to the polls Sunday in a historic referendum that is widely expected to see them vote to split from the north.

The week-long vote is the centrepiece of a 2005 peace deal that ended decades of civil war between the mainly Muslim north and the Christian and Animist south – … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Voting begins in Southern Sudan independence poll.

Retired Taiwan spies make sensitive visit to China

TAIPEI – A group of retired Taiwan spies recently visited China, a newspaper reported Sunday, voicing concern that the trip might endanger Taiwan’s national security.

Nineteen former intelligence officers flew to China Dec 4 for a five-day visit at the invitation of the municipal government of Jiangshan City, Zhejiang province, the China Times said.
The … Read more »».

Concluding day of BJP national executive begins

GUWAHATI – The concluding day of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national executive meet began here Sunday to adopt resolutions aimed at cornering the UPA government on issues pertaining to corruption and price rise.

“The political resolution would include corruptions and scandals ranging from the 2G Spectrum to the Commonwealth Games, Adarsh housing scam and …. Original article  : Concluding day of BJP national executive begins.

Clashes ahead of Sudan referendum

JUBA – There were scattered clashes in southern Sudan Saturday, one day before voting starts in a referendum on southern independence.

Fighting in Unity State killed six soldiers under the command of rebel leader Gatluak Gai, according to a spokesman for the southern army.
These are elements that are trying to undermine the referendum,” the … Read more >>>.

Statement by the Vice President

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The horrific attack in Tucson, Arizona, this morning has taken the lives of at least five people, including a federal judge and a young … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the Vice President.

Remarks by the President on the Shootings in Tucson, Arizona

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State Dining Room …. Read the original article  : here.

Statement by the President

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This morning, in an unspeakable tragedy, a number of Americans were shot in Tucson, Arizona, at a constituent meeting with Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.  And …. Original article  : Statement by the President.

Sonia follows up on plenary agenda – writes to ministers, chief ministers

NEW DELHI – Following up on her agenda at party’s plenary last month, Congress party president Sonia Gandhi has written letters to union ministers and chief ministers to pay more attention to party workers’ grievances and proposals, and to also give up discretionary powers in land allotment.

At the Congress plenary Dec 19, Gandhi had … Original article on : Sonia follows up on plenary agenda – writes to ministers, chief ministers.

Karunanidhi requests Kerala to declare Pongal holiday

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Saturday requested the Kerala government to declare local holiday in its border districts for Pongal festival.

In a letter, Karunanidhi asked his Kerala counterpart V.S. Achuthanandan to declare a local holiday in Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram, Idduki, Pathanamthitta and Wayanad districts so that Tamils living there can celebrate the … Read more >>>.

Almost half of polling stations in Bengal sensitive

KOLKATA – Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) S.Y. Quraishi Saturday expressed concern over the violence in West Bengal and declared almost half of the 51,991 polling stations for the upcoming assembly polls as sensitive.

“After doing the vulnerability mapping we have identified around 25,000 polling stations as sensitive. The sensitive booths are spread across 19 districts,” … Original source on Gaea Times at : Almost half of polling stations in Bengal sensitive.

CPI-M government a bandit government: Mamata

DHULAGARH – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Saturday launched a scathing attack on Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M)-led Left Front government and termed it as a government of ‘harmads’ (bandits).

“This CPI-M government is a government of harmads. I have seen cannons during wars and this time cannons are being found from … Read this article on Gaea Times at : CPI-M government a bandit government: Mamata.

Iran makes 40 kg of 20 percent enriched uranium: Official

TEHRAN – Iran has produced 40 kg of 20 percent enriched uranium for a nuclear reactor in Tehran, Ali Akbar Salehi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), announced Saturday.

“We have produced about 40 kg of 20 percent (enriched) uranium and we hope to witness the injection of the first batch of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Iran says can produce nuclear fuel

Tehran, Jan 8 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Tehran is capable of making its own nuclear fuel plates and rods, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran said Saturday.

“We have built an advanced manufacturing unit at Isfahan for the fuel plates,” the Fars news agency quoted Ali-Akbar Salehi, head of Atomic Energy Organization of Iran …. Source article  : Iran says can produce nuclear fuel.

Congress flays Madhya Pradesh BJP leader for tax evasion

BHOPAL – The Madhya Pradesh unit of the Congress Saturday tried to put the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the dock after one of its state leaders Ramesh Garg was fined Rs.156 crore for tax evasion.

Garg, president of the business cell of BJP’s Madhya Pradesh unit, Thursday paid a fine of Rs.156 crore …. Original article  : Congress flays Madhya Pradesh BJP leader for tax evasion.

Pakistan, India foreign secretaries to meet in Bhutan

ISLAMABAD – The foreign secretaries of India and Pakistan will meet in Bhutan on the sidelines of the upcoming SAARC summit, officials said here Saturday.

They are expected to discuss ways to take forward the stalled peace process between the two countries, the Online news agency reported quoting unnamed officials.
Pakistan has accepted a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gadkari slams UPA for corruption, resolution on northeast passed (Night Lead)

GUWAHATI – The first day of the two-day national executive of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ended Saturday with the party launching a blistering attack on the UPA government on charges of rampant corruption, while passing a resolution on the northeast keeping an eye on the upcoming assembly elections in Assam.

“The 20-month old rule …. Source  : Gadkari slams UPA for corruption, resolution on northeast passed (Night Lead).

India, Indonesia to boost anti-piracy cooperation

NEW DELHI – Cooperation between India and Indonesia on maritime security and intelligence sharing on anti-piracy operations is set to get a major boost during navy chief Admiral Nirmal Verma’s four-day visit to the Southeast Asian nation.

Verma left New Delhi Monday and will call on Indonesian ministers and military commanders during his visit, … Original source on Gaea Times at : India, Indonesia to boost anti-piracy cooperation.

CPI-M worker lynched in West Bengal

KOLKATA – A Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) worker was lynched allegedly by Trinamool Congress supported miscreants in Barrackpore area of West Bengal’s North 24-Parganas district Sunday night, police said.

“Sengupta, a worker of the CPI-Ms youth wing Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), was severely beaten up by miscreants near his home at Barrackpore. … Original source on Gaea Times at : CPI-M worker lynched in West Bengal.

Mohan Bhagwat accuses Congress of deliberately linking RSS to terror

SURAT – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has slammed Congress party for allegedly linking Hindu groups with extremism and said that there was no place for radical elements in the party.

Addressing party workers here on Sunday, Bhagwat said: “Congress is trying to link up RSS and other Hindu organisations with extremist forces to … Read more »».

Mamata Banerjee wants early election in West Bengal

WEST MIDNAPORE – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee met Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and briefed him on the situation there.

“I briefed him (Mukherjee) on the situation at Netai village in Lalgarh,” Banerjee told reporters after emerging from the meeting.

Their meeting comes in the backdrop of the shootout in Lalgarh …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mamata Banerjee wants early election in West Bengal.

Malaysian Indian-led party seeks to join ruling alliance

KUALA LUMPUR – A minor multi-racial party led by a Malaysian Indian leader has sought admission to the ruling alliance Barisan Nasional (BN), ahead of the general election that is likely to be held this year.

If not admitted, Parti Satu Malaysia (PSM), led by its pro-tem president Muruga Raj Rajathurai has said it would …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysian Indian-led party seeks to join ruling alliance.

Chinese, US defence ministers meet to strengthen military ties

BEIJING – Chinese Defence Minister Liang Guanglie Monday met with his US counterpart Robert Gates here for talks and called for joint efforts to deal with disagreements between the two sides.

“The China-US military relationship has new opportunities for development. It also faces challenges,” said Liang after receiving Gates at the headquarters of China’s Central …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese, US defence ministers meet to strengthen military ties.

Pranab, Mamata discuss Bengal law and order, alliance

KOLKATA – Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee discussed the law and order situation in West Bengal with Congress heavyweight Pranab Mukherjee here and the formation of an alliance ahead of the assembly polls later this year.

Banerjee, the union railway minister, and Mukherjee, the finance minister, held talks Sunday night.
“Whenever we get time, we … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pranab, Mamata discuss Bengal law and order, alliance.

PPP gives in to PML-N’s charter of demands

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has bowed to the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) demands, thus bringing the three-day ‘ultimatum’ issued by the party to an end.

A day before the expiry of the provisional deadline given by the PML-N, Gilani talked to party chief Nawaz Sharif on the telephone, and assured him that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PPP gives in to PML-N’s charter of demands.

India must resume composite dialogue with Pakistan to resolve outstanding issues: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – India should resume composite dialogue with Pakistan to resolve all outstanding issues- including the Kashmir dispute- peacefully and expeditiously, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said.

Gilani made these comments while talking to the German Foreign Minister, Dr Guido Westerwelle, who called on him along with his delegation members at the PM House …. Source article  : India must resume composite dialogue with Pakistan to resolve outstanding issues: Gilani.

Kuwait aims to set record for world’s longest flag

DUBAI – Kuwait is aiming to set a new Guinness record for the world’s longest flag which will be unveiled next month during its National Day.

Kuwait celebrates its National Day and Liberation Day Feb 25.
The 2,000 metre-long flag was made by the students of Fatima Bin Quais Primary School, Gulf News reported.
The … Read : Kuwait aims to set record for world’s longest flag.

Obama ‘pleased’ with Sudan voting

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama Sunday greeted the “historic” start of voting in the Southern Sudan independence referendum but called for an end to violence in the disputed border region of Abyei.

He also sent a message apparently aimed at the government in Khartoum that “the world will be watching in the coming days”.
…. Read the original article  : Obama ‘pleased’ with Sudan voting.

Presidential Proclamation???Honoring the Victims of the Tragedy in Tucson, Arizona

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As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on Saturday, January 8, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona, by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Proclamation–Honoring the Victims of the Tragedy in Tucson, Arizona.

Statement by the President on Sudan

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I am extremely pleased that polling has started for the Southern Sudan Referendum, and congratulate the people of Southern Sudan who are determining their …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Presidential Proclamation???National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

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As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on Saturday, January 8, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona, by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

President Obama Calls for Moment of Silence for Victims of Shooting in Tucson, Arizona

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“Tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. eastern standard time, I call on Americans to observe a moment of silence to honor the innocent victims of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tamil Nadu polls: DMDK open to electoral alliance

CHENNAI – Actor-turned-politician and DMDK leader Vijaykant Sunday assured his party cadres that he would forge an alliance for the ensuing assembly elections without affecting the party’s self-respect.

Speaking at his partys rally at Salem, around 320 km from here, he told party workers: “You leave the alliance decision to me. I … Read : Tamil Nadu polls: DMDK open to electoral alliance.

Southern Sudanese vote in historic independence poll

JUBA – Southern Sudanese went to the polls Sunday in a historic referendum that is widely expected to see them vote to split from the north.

The week-long vote is the centrepiece of a 2005 peace deal that ended decades of civil war between the mainly Muslim north and the Christian and Animist south – … Read : Southern Sudanese vote in historic independence poll.

Left to hold rally against price rise in Delhi: Buddhadeb

SINGUR – Blaming the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government for failing to control food inflation, West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Sunday said the Left parties will organise a big rally in Delhi during the budget session of parliament seeking a curb on rising prices.

“We cannot force the UPA government to initiate proper steps … Read more »»».

Ban opinion polls after model code imposed: Quraishi

KOLKATA – Suggesting a ban on opinion polls once the model code of conduct comes into effect, Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi Sunday opposed state funding of elections, saying the money might be misused.

Speaking at the Second Regional Consultation on Electoral Reforms, organised by the union law ministry here, Quraishi also sought powers for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ban opinion polls after model code imposed: Quraishi.

Simultaneous polls impractical: Pranab on Mamata’s proposal

KOLKATA – Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee Sunday proposed simultaneous elections to parliament and the state assemblies to cut costs, but Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee termed this impractical.

Speaking at a seminar on electoral reforms at the National University of Jurisdical Sciences, the minister said the West Bengal assembly elections will be “very challenging” for the …. Read the original article  : here.

Jagan’s show of strength in Delhi attracts Congress leaders (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Accompanied by Congress MPs, legislators and thousands of supporters, former MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Tuesday began a daylong fast here to highlight the injustice to Andhra Pradesh in the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal Award and the plight of farmers.

Jagan, along with about 3,000 supporters, reached Delhi by a special train Tuesday … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jagan’s show of strength in Delhi attracts Congress leaders (Second Lead).

Terror can’t be ignored for friendly ties with Pakistan: Krishna

NEW DELHI – Asking Pakistan to fulfil its assurances of disbanding the terror infrastructure on its soil, India Tuesday said it was willing to go more than half the way to hold peace talks with the neighbour but terrorism could not be shoved under the carpet

External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, during an interaction with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Terror can’t be ignored for friendly ties with Pakistan: Krishna.

Jagan’s show of strength in Delhi – with some Congress participation

NEW DELHI – Accompanied by thousands of supporters, former Congress MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy arrived in the capital Tuesday and began a daylong fast in a show of strength that included two Congress MPs to highlight the woes of farmers and protest the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal ruling on the sharing of river waters.

… Read more »».

Manmohan Singh holds meeting on price rise

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Tuesday held high level meeting on spiralling food prices and to conduct a review on food inflation, which has gone past 18 per cent.

Senior ministers, including Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Food and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar and Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia … Read : Manmohan Singh holds meeting on price rise.

Cabinet reshuffle likely after January 14

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, is likely to reshuffle the Union council of ministers after January 14.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi has already held two rounds of consultations with Dr. Singh.

The reshuffle could see some Cabinet ministers going to the Congress to oversee party work, while others may see their portfolios … Original article on : Cabinet reshuffle likely after January 14.

Gilani urges Pak media not to highlight activities of extremists

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that extremism is the biggest challenge the country is facing, and insists that it is the collective obligation of the media not to highlight their ideology and activities.

“To confront these challenges, our deep commitment and attention will prove helpful in enhancing the dignity of Pakistan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gilani urges Pak media not to highlight activities of extremists.

Rahul asks Lucknow students to join politics

LUCKNOW – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Tuesday asked the youth to join politics for development of the country but steered away from controversial questions on corruption and inflation during his interaction with a cross-section of students here.

Gandhi faced a volley of questions during his interaction with the students in a programme organised by … Read more >>>.

Ashley Turton Found Dead

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Neighbors watched with concern as fire department rescue workers tried to extinguish the flames of Ashley Turton’s car inside the garage of her Washington residence. Police on Monday morning found the remains of Ashley Turton, the wife of a crucial White House aide. The death news has stunned the entire Capitol Hill neighborhood … Read : Ashley Turton Found Dead.

Manmohan Singh to preside over meet on inflation

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will on Tuesday preside over a meeting to tackle spiralling food prices and review food inflation, which has gone past 18 per cent.

Senior ministers including Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Food and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar and Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia are expected to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh to preside over meet on inflation.

Jagan reaches capital, starts daylong fast

NEW DELHI – Surrounded by hundreds of supporters who travelled with him from Andhra Pradesh, former Congress MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Tuesday began a daylong fast here to highlight the misery of farmers in the state.

He reached Delhi by a special train Wednesday morning and went straight to Jantar Mantar, the 186 years … Read more »».

Tom DeLay Gets Prison Sentence

AUSTIN (GaeaTimes.com)- Former member of U. S. House of Representatives, Tom DeLay has been sentenced to three years in prison on conspiracy charges for illegally laundering money to Texas candidates in the year 2002. Tom DeLay was convicted with charges of money laundering back in November and on Monday, Judge Pat Priest of San … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tom DeLay Gets Prison Sentence.

Global player India has every right to ties with Kabul: US

WASHINGTON – As US Vice President Joe Biden paid a surprise visit to Afghanistan, the US reiterated that India, as a regional and emerging global power, has every right to have its own relationship with Kabul.

“We have made clear that India, as a regional and emerging global power, has every right to have its … Original article on : Global player India has every right to ties with Kabul: US.

Obama, Sarkozy seek economic progress, cooperation

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama and French President Nicolas Sarkozy pledged to work closely to bolster the global economic recovery, during a meeting Monday at the White House.

Obama and Sarkozy sat down for talks as France assumes the presidencies of both the G8 group of the world’s largest developed economies and the G20. … Read : Obama, Sarkozy seek economic progress, cooperation.

Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction Submits Resignation

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The President has received the resignation of retired Major General Arnold Fields as the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR).
Shortly after being appointed … Original article on : Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction Submits Resignation.

Background Briefing by Senior Administration Official on Air Force Two en route Kabul

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Air Force Two
En route Kabul, Afghanistan

6:33 P.M. (Local)
 
SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Thanks.  Can you all hear, more or less? 
 
So we are setting down in Afghanistan …. Source  : Background Briefing by Senior Administration Official on Air Force Two en route Kabul.

Remarks by President Obama and President Sarkozy of France after Bilateral Meeting

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Location: 

Oval Office …. Original source  : Remarks by President Obama and President Sarkozy of France after Bilateral Meeting.

Rahul Gandhi feasts on tunde kebabs

LUCKNOW – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi chose to feast on Lucknow’s famed tunde kebabs instead of having dinner at the five-star Taj hotel here Monday night, party sources said.

Gandhi, who is to address the National Students Union of India (NSUI), the Congress’ student wing, here Tuesday was scheduled to go to the five … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rahul Gandhi feasts on tunde kebabs.

Readout of The President’s Calls and Briefings

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Last night the President continued to call the families of the victims from the terrible tragedy in Arizona and will continue to do so …. Source  : Readout of The President’s Calls and Briefings.

Sarkozy meets Obama

WASHINGTON – French President Nicolas Sarkozy met US President Barack Obama Monday for talks expected to cover the global economy and international security.

Obama’s meeting with Sarkozy comes as France assumes the presidencies of both the G8 group of the world’s largest developed economies and the G20.
France will be hosting summits of the two …. Read the original article  : Sarkozy meets Obama.

Clinton in Gulf for talks on Iran, Middle East

ABU DHABI – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton kick-started a five-day tour of the Gulf region with high-level meetings Monday that focused on security and civil society.

“In countries that I’m visiting I will be obviously meeting with leaders to continue the security dialogues that we are engaged in to talk through some of … Read more : Clinton in Gulf for talks on Iran, Middle East.

Sudan independence vote at 60 percent threshold, says official

JUBA – The outcome of Southern Sudan’s landmark independence referendum will be valid as more than 60 percent of registered voters have already cast their ballots, an official from the southern ruling party said Wednesday.

Anne Itto, deputy secretary general of southern ruling party the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), said around 2.3 million people … Original article on : Sudan independence vote at 60 percent threshold, says official.

Palace aide’s memoir bares China skeletons in Nepal cupboard

KATHMANDU – The controversial memoir of a former top palace aide of Nepal, that has dragged India into dispute and besmirched the images of the former royals, also bares Chinese skeletons in Nepal’s cupboard. It contends that Beijing sought to create bad blood between Nepal and India and pressured for the deployment of the army … Read : Palace aide’s memoir bares China skeletons in Nepal cupboard.

Nepal parties riven with dissent ahead of 17th PM poll

KATHMANDU – Even six months after Nepal’s Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal stepped down under pressure from the opposition Maoists, the republic’s major parties remain deadlocked in a worsening conflict for power, and indications are that the 17th round to elect a new premier Wednesday would not lead to an agreement.

The Nepali Congress, the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

North, South Korea restore hotline after eight-month

SEOUL – North Korea Wednesday reopened a Red Cross hotline with South Korea, an official in Seoul said, as Pyongyang steps up its efforts to re-engage in talks and get much-needed aid flowing again.

Officials reestablished contact in the joint truce village of Panmunjom, eight months after North Korea shut down the hotline after … Read : North, South Korea restore hotline after eight-month.

Gilani seeks constant OIC support on Kashmir issue

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has asked the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) to provide constant support to it for realizing the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions.

The implementation of OIC resolutions on Kashmir, he hoped will help in mitigating the plight of Kashmiri people … Read : Gilani seeks constant OIC support on Kashmir issue.

Teesta water deal an optimistic beginning: Bangladeshi daily

DHAKA – The 15-year framework deal Bangladesh and India have reached on sharing the Teesta river water marks “an optimistic beginning”, a Bangladeshi newspaper has said, calling for its early signing by the political leadership.

Calling for “a substantive follow up”, the Daily Star said in its editorial Wednesday: “The Teesta deal is definitely a … Read more »».

PM to launch Swami Vivekananda’s 150th birth anniversary celebrations

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, will inaugurate the nationwide celebrations to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda here today.

A national committee has been formed with the Prime Minister as chairman to oversee the celebrations. Dr. Singh will also release a book “Awakening India” which contains the selected writings …. Read the original article  : PM to launch Swami Vivekananda’s 150th birth anniversary celebrations.

PM to meet RBI Governor to discuss monetary measures to curb inflation

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh will meet Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor D Subbarao over the possibility of further monetary steps to check price rise here today.

Dr Singh’s meeting with Subbarao comes ahead of RBI’s quarterly review of monetary policy on January 25.

RBI has already raised the short-term … Original source on Gaea Times at : PM to meet RBI Governor to discuss monetary measures to curb inflation.

Readout of the President’s call to King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

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The President spoke to King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia to wish him well as he continues to recover from his recent surgery, and thanked … Read : Readout of the President’s call to King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia.

Letter from the President regarding the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996

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TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
TO THE CHAIRMEN AND RANKING MEMBERS OF
THE HOUSE AND SENATE COMMITTEES ON APPROPRIATIONS,
THE CHAIRMAN AND RANKING MEMBER OF …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Letter from the President regarding the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996.

Statement by the Press Secretary on President Obama meeting with the Prime Minister of Lebanon

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Tomorrow, President Obama will meet with Prime Minister Saad Hariri of Lebanon to discuss U.S. support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, independence, and stability, the ongoing … Read : Statement by the Press Secretary on President Obama meeting with the Prime Minister of Lebanon.

Statement by President Barack Obama on the One Year Anniversary of the Earthquake in Haiti

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As we mark one year since the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti, we honor the memory of the quarter of a million Haitians who were … Read more : Statement by President Barack Obama on the One Year Anniversary of the Earthquake in Haiti.

Zardari appoints Latif Khan Khosa as Punjab governor

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari Tuesday night appointed Sardar Latif Khan Khosa as the new Punjab governor, a media report said.

The president has signed a document regarding Khosa’s appointment Tuesday night, the Pakistan Times reported quoting Farhatullah Babar, the spokesman for the president.
Khosa, a senior leader of the ruling …. Original article  : Zardari appoints Latif Khan Khosa as Punjab governor.

Remarks by Vice President Biden and President Karzai of Afghanistan After Meeting

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Stone Building, Presidential Palace … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Remarks by Vice President Biden and President Karzai of Afghanistan After Meeting.

Russia, US begin civilian n-cooperation deal

MOSCOW – A civilian nuclear cooperation deal between Russia and the US came into force Tuesday.

The accord, which was signed in 2008 when then US president George W. Bush was in office, was put on ice for three years by the US after Russia’s invasion of Georgia that year.
“The agreement is very important …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Telangana Congress leaders demand bill for separate state

HYDERABAD – Congress leaders from Telangana Tuesday demanded that a bill be tabled in the upcoming budget session of parliament for forming a Telangana state.

However, the leaders apparently softened their stand on the issue as a meeting of party leaders here refrained from issuing any threat to resign.
The meeting passed a resolution urging …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Telangana Congress leaders demand bill for separate state.

Special functions to enrol new voters: Poll panel

BHUBANESWAR – The Election Commission of India Tuesday said it will organise special functions across the country Jan 25 to mark the enrolment of about 20 million youth in the electoral rolls.

The commission has decided to make the enrolment of the youth a national movement and organise the functions Jan 25, the commission’s golden …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jagan juggernaut in Delhi, challenges Congress in Andhra (Second Intro Roundup)

NEW DELHI/HYDERABAD – Taking his fight against the Congress to the heart of the national capital, former MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Tuesday put up a massive show of strength with 31 Andhra Pradesh legislators and two party MPs. Police arrested and freed him late at night.

Jagan, as he is popularly known, declared that he … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jagan juggernaut in Delhi, challenges Congress in Andhra (Second Intro Roundup).

Agra students quiz Rahul Gandhi on price rise

AGRA – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Tuesday took questions on price rise and corruption from students with whom he interacted here. He also motivated them to join politics to reform the system.

Students asked general and routine questions. A few “politically incorrect” questions remained unanswered, said Desh Deepak Tiwari, a youth leader.
Questions …. Original article  : Agra students quiz Rahul Gandhi on price rise.

Linking RSS to terror is ridiculous, says Gadkari

NEW DELHI – Accusing the Congress of “never giving up” attempts to tarnish the image of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari Tuesday said that linking the organisation to terror incidents was “ridiculous”.

“To say that people who committed terror incidents were motivated by Sangh is ridiculous,” Gadkari said …. Read the original article  : Linking RSS to terror is ridiculous, says Gadkari.

Karunanidhi writes to PM over Lankan navy killing Indian fisherman

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi has sent a telegram to the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, demanding his immediate intervention in stopping the killing of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy.

“Atrocities of Lankan navy are continuing unabated in spite of repeated … Original article on : Karunanidhi writes to PM over Lankan navy killing Indian fisherman.

Fisherman’s death: India asks Sri Lanka to avoid force

NEW DELHI – India Thursday protested the death of an Indian fisherman in firing by Sri Lankan Navy personnel and urged Colombo to avoid the use of force.

“We have received reports of the death of an Indian fisherman due to firing by Sri Lankan Navy personnel, external affairs ministry spokesperson Vishnu Prakash said. … Read : Fisherman’s death: India asks Sri Lanka to avoid force.

Karunanidhi to PM: Act against Sri Lanka for fisherman’s killing

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Thursday sent a telegram to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh demanding stern action against the killing of an Indian fisherman, Veerapandian, by the Sri Lankan Navy the day before.

Karunanidhi said in his telegram: “The atrocities of the Srilankan Navy are continuing unabated, in spite of repeated …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

President Barack Obama’s Tucson Speech

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- The city of Tucson which is still grappling with the violent incident that it witnessed on Saturday, remembered the victims of the outrageous shooting incident through a special memorial service which was attended by U.S. President Barack Obama. During his speech at the Tucson memorial on Wednesday night, the U.S. President made … Original article on : President Barack Obama’s Tucson Speech.

Daniel Hernandez: Barack Obama’s Hero

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- What could be the first reaction, when all of a sudden a mass shooting occurs? Well, it did not take time for Daniel Hernandez to think and then react. What he did was an instant reaction. He was this intern in the camp of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords who rushed to her rescue …. Source article  : Daniel Hernandez: Barack Obama’s Hero.

JMM undecided, opposition to fight Munda in bypoll

RANCHI – The main opposition parties will field their candidates against Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda in the Kharsawa assembly bypoll whereas the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) ally Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) is undecided about it.

BJP legislator Mangal Singh Soy vacated the Kharsawa assembly seat in November to facilitate Munda to get …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : JMM undecided, opposition to fight Munda in bypoll.

GJM shutdown cripples life in Darjeeling hills

DARJEELING – Shops and business establishments were closed in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district Thursday, the second day of a 27-day shutdown called by the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) to press for a separate Gorkhaland state, police said.

Life came to a virtual standstill in the three sub-divisions of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong. Roads were deserted … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : GJM shutdown cripples life in Darjeeling hills.

Sarah Palin’s ‘Blood Libel’ Remark Sparks Controversy

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Sarah Palin has managed to do it yet again. Despite her earnest efforts to silence her critics in a new video that has been posted online, the former Alaska governor has fueled a furore once again without much deliberation. The statement that was released on Wednesday comes on the heels of a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sarah Palin’s ‘Blood Libel’ Remark Sparks Controversy.

JD-U MP announces fast to demand probe into his assets

PATNA -Stung by allegations of corruption from his party colleagues, an MP from Bihar’s ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) has asked Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to order a probe into his assets and declared that he would go on a one-day fast to press for the demand.

Rajya Sabha member Upendra Kushwaha has announced that he … Read : JD-U MP announces fast to demand probe into his assets.

Nizamuddin Mosque Demolition Sparks Outrage

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Nizamuddin area of New Delhi wore a look similar to a battle-field on Wednesday when Muslim protesters clashed with police officials over the demolition of a mosque. The violence in the area of the national capital followed after Delhi Development Authority (DDA) took the initiative to demolish a mosque … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nizamuddin Mosque Demolition Sparks Outrage.

Tucson Shooting Victims Visited By President Barack Obama

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- President Barack Obama visited the Tucson shooting victims on Wednesday along with First Lady Michelle Obama. The U.S. President visited the hospital and spent about nine minutes with Gabrielle Giffords and her husband Mark Kelly before visiting other wounded victims. After that, he attended the memorial service of the Arizona shooting …. Original article  : Tucson Shooting Victims Visited By President Barack Obama.

Thousands pay homage to dead NCP leader

MUMBAI – Thousands of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) workers paid homage to senior leader and legislator Gurunath Kulkarni Thursday morning. Kulkarni, 70, passed away here Wednesday after prolonged illness, a party official said.

The body of the party’s state general secretary has been kept in the NCP state headquarters at Nariman Point in south Mumbai …. Source  : Thousands pay homage to dead NCP leader.

Kashmir government mulls action against BJP yatra

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government is mulling a tough response to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) planned march to Lal Chowk in Srinagar later this month to prevent a law and order problem in the valley.

BJP’s Rashtriya Ekta Yatra or national unity march started from Kolkata Wednesday and it is expected …. Source  : Kashmir government mulls action against BJP yatra.

Remarks by the President at a Memorial Service for the Victims of the Shooting in Tucson, Arizona

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For Immediate Release

McKale Memorial Center
University of Arizona
Tucson, Arizona

6:43 P.M. MST

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you very much.  Please, please be seated.  (Applause.)

To the families of …. Read the original article  : here.

Obama at Arizona shooting memorial calls for civility

LOS ANGELES/TUCSON – US President Barack Obama led a memorial service Wednesday night for six people killed in the shooting of US congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, calling for greater civility in public discourse to honour the victims of the attack.

“If this tragedy prompts reflections and debate, as it should, let’s make sure it’s worthy of … Original article on : Obama at Arizona shooting memorial calls for civility.

Remarks by Vice President Biden and Prime Minister Gilani of Pakistan

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Presidential Palace …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Remarks by Vice President Biden and Prime Minister Gilani of Pakistan.

Left Front renews demand to celebrate Netaji’s birthday

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee will hand over a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during his visit to Delhi later this month, urging the central government to declare Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birthday Jan 23 as “Deshprem Divas”.

“We shall urge the centre to observe the day as ‘Deshprem Divas’ throughout …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian-American Nikki Haley begins historic run as governor (Second Lead)

WASHINGTON – Nikki Haley, the daughter of Sikh immigrant parents from Amritsar, created history Wednesday as she became the first woman governor of South Carolina and the first Indian American woman to take the top state office.

With her left hand on a Bible held by her husband Michael, Republican Haley, born Nimrata (Nikki) Randhawa, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian-American Nikki Haley begins historic run as governor (Second Lead).

Raj Thackeray attacks NCP leaders at rally

AURANGABAD – Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray Wednesday addressed a huge rally here to protest against the police attack on his party legislator and challenged Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and state Home Minister R.R. Patil to confront him directly.

“Just do this and see what happens,” Thackeray thundered at the rally protesting … Read more »».

Congress holds rallies to counter opposition’s corruption tirade

NEW DELHIL – The Congress has started organising rallies in states to counter the opposition tirade on corruption following party president Sonia Gandhi’s directive during the party’s plenary here last month, party officials said Wednesday.

Gandhi had told party general secretaries to organise rallies to counter the opposition’s campaign on corruption, suggested constitution of coordination … Original article on : Congress holds rallies to counter opposition’s corruption tirade.

Tamil Nadu to set up more vegetable shops, farmer markets

CHENNAI – The Tamil Nadu government Friday decided to open more vegetable shops and farmer markets to sell vegetables at cheap rates and to ask the central government to re-impose ban on future trading in sugar.

At a meeting Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi chaired and Deputy Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and other ministers attended, it …. Original article  : Tamil Nadu to set up more vegetable shops, farmer markets.

Pro-Trinamool intellectuals to meet president, PM

KOLKATA – Carrying their battle against West Bengal’s ruling Left Front to Delhi, a group of painters, theatre activists and economists associated with the Trinamool Congress will meet President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh next week to demand the central government’s intervention in the state.

The group, which will reach the national capital …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Diplomacy possible with North Korea: US defence secretary

SEOUL – Diplomatic involvement with North Korea is “possible” but it must first end “dangerous provocations” and meet its international obligations, US Defence Secretary Robert Gates said Friday during a visit to South Korea.

Gates was in Seoul at a time of high tension on the Korean Peninsula for talks with Defense Minister Kim Kwan … Read more : Diplomacy possible with North Korea: US defence secretary.

Israel’s Press Office apologizes for journalists ‘Bra-Gate’ howler

NEW YORK – The director of Israel’s Government Press Office has apologized for the intensive security screening several journalists had to endure before meeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to Israeli newspaper Haaretz, several members of the foreign press corps had been invited to a cocktail party with personal invitations and press cards, which could have … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Israel’s Press Office apologizes for journalists ‘Bra-Gate’ howler.

Israeli security asks woman reporter to take off bra to meet Prime Minister

LONDON – A pregnant producer has revealed that she was asked by Israeli security personnel to take off her bra in order to meet Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu.

Simri Diab, 31, an al-Jazeera producer, revealed that Israeli security had demanded she remove her bra if she wished to meet the Prime Minister at the annual foreign …. Read the original article  : Israeli security asks woman reporter to take off bra to meet Prime Minister.

BJP MP says will complain to President Patil against Governor Bhardwaj

BANGALORE – Blaming Karnataka Governor H R Bhardwaj for the chaos in the state Assembly, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP D B Chandre Gowda has said party MPs from the state would soon petition President Pratibha Patil seeking his recall.

“Raj Bhavan here has become centre of political activity and the Governor, who is expected to … Read more : BJP MP says will complain to President Patil against Governor Bhardwaj.

Embattled Japanese premier reshuffles cabinet

TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan reorganised his cabinet Friday in the hopes of boosting his support among the public as he struggles with low popularity ratings.

The reshuffle was carried out just before the 150-day regular session of the Diet begins Jan 24 when the government, led by Kan’s Democratic Party of Japan …. Original source  : Embattled Japanese premier reshuffles cabinet.

Hizb chief ready to respond to ’sincere’ talks offer

JAMMU – Syed Salahuddin, the Pakistan-based leader of the Hizbul Mujahideen, has voiced his willingness to talk to New Delhi if a “sincere offer” is made by the Indian government, a local newspaper said Friday.

“If the government of India accepts Kashmir as a core issue and comes out with a sincere offer for talks …. Read the original article  : Hizb chief ready to respond to ’sincere’ talks offer.

Letter from the President regarding Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d))

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For Immediate Release

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

January 13, 2011

Dear Mr. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Letter from the President regarding Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)).

Remarks by Vice President Biden to the U.S. Forces-Iraq Troops

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For Immediate Release

Location: 

Al-Faw Palace, Camp Victory … Read more »».

Mamata buckles under anti-land acquisition stir, cancels Sankarail project

SINGUR/BORAI – In an irony of sorts, Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Thursday announced shifting of a proposed railway coach factory from Sankrail in Howrah district following vehement anti-land acquisition protests.

Announcing shifting of the project at a function in Borai of Hooghly district, Banerjee said: “I will not forcibly set up …. Original source  : Mamata buckles under anti-land acquisition stir, cancels Sankarail project.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/13/2011

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Location: 

James S. Brady Press …. Original source  : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/13/2011.

Omar again asks BJP to abandon Kashmir yatra

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday again asked the Bharatiya Janata Party to halt its Kashmir yatra intended to culminate in hoisting the national flag at Lal Chowk, the historic city centre here, on Republic Day Jan 26.

Addressing a public meeting in the Zainakadal area in the old city, he …. Original article  : Omar again asks BJP to abandon Kashmir yatra.

Obama to meet Zardari on sidelines of Holbrooke funeral

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama will Friday privately meet with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, who is visiting America for the funeral of former US ambassador Richard Holbrooke.

Obama will welcome Zardari to the White House, spokesman Robert Gibbs told reporters Thursday.
The leaders planned to discuss efforts to combat terrorism and build [..] Read the original article: here.

India protests Chinese stapled visas; Beijing refuses to budge (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – India Thursday strongly protested against Chinese stapled visas for residents of Arunachal Pradesh saying it was unacceptable. Beijing, however, refused to budge from its position.

“Stapled Chinese visas are unacceptable to India. It has been conveyed to China. We will not accept it,” Defence Minister A.K. Antony told reporters here.
On Tuesday, … Read more »».

Congress refuses comment on criticism of Sibal

NEW DELHI – The Congress Thursday refused to comment on criticism of Communications Minister Kapil Sibal by the government auditor and by Public Accounts Committee (PAC) chairman Murli Manohar Joshi.

A constitutional body is looking into the (Sibal’s) remarks. All stands are there. No doubt that an appropriate body will look into it, Congress spokesman …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Congress refuses comment on criticism of Sibal.

Stapled visas not acceptable, India tells China

NEW DELHI – Strongly reacting to China issuing stapled visas to Indian citizens from Jammu and Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh, New Delhi said Thursday it will not agree to such actions and had conveyed its protest to Beijing.

Stapled Chinese visas are unacceptable to India. It has been conveyed to China. We will not accept … Original source on Gaea Times at : Stapled visas not acceptable, India tells China.

Krishna to go to Australia, uranium sale, FTA on agenda

NEW DELHI – India will press Australia to review its ban on the sale of uranium to New Delhi and discuss the contours of a free trade area (FTA) pact when External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna goes to Melbourne on a two-day visit next week.

Krishna is expected to leave for Melbourne Jan 18, official …. Original source  : Krishna to go to Australia, uranium sale, FTA on agenda.

BJP, Shiv Sena predict fall of UPA soon

MUMBAI – The Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiv Sena here Thursday said the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) would collapse soon as its 100 sins are over.

This government will collapse any time now… its 100 sins are over, former Lok Sabha speaker Manohar Joshi, a senior Shiv Sena leader, told reporters referring to … Read more >>.

PM’s panel disagrees with NAC on food security law

NEW DELHI – Taking a reality check, a prime ministerial panel Thursday disagreed with the Sonia Gandhi-headed National Advisory Council’s ambitious plans on food security, saying it would be difficult to legally entitle 75 percent of India’s population to subsidised foodgrain.

Unveiling its report, the the prime minister’s expert committee …. Source  : PM’s panel disagrees with NAC on food security law.

Fast track court will examine Banda rape case, says Mayawati

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati, who has been under immense presence to act against her own party MLA, on Saturday said Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MLA Purshottam Naresh Dwivedi, who has been accused of raping a minor dalit girl will not be spared if the charges against him are proved correct.

Addressing a rally …. Read the original article  : Fast track court will examine Banda rape case, says Mayawati.

Nepal’s king traded Tibetan refugees for US support: WikiLeaks

KATHMANDU – After ordering the closure of the Dalai Lama’s envoy’s office in Kathmandu and taking over absolute power with a military-backed bloodless coup in 2005, Nepal’s King Gyanendra dangled Tibetan refugees as bait before the US in a bid to get American support, whistle-blowing web site WikiLeaks said in its latest revelation.

Ramesh Nath … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nepal’s king traded Tibetan refugees for US support: WikiLeaks.

Congress-BJP slugfest: duel with no winners (Comment)

As may be expected, the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are targeting each other’s main weak spots in their current political confrontation, but their mutual vulnerabilities are making it some kind of dead heat.

While the BJP has had no difficulty in cornering the Congress on corruption, given the latter’s long flawed history … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Congress-BJP slugfest: duel with no winners (Comment).

Oz deputy PM says flood-ravaged Queensland will need over 2 yrs to recover

SYDNEY – Deputy Australian Prime Minister Wayne Swan has said that Queensland will need more than two years to recover from the widespread and destructive flooding.

Raging floodwaters have swamped thousands of homes and businesses in Queensland, leaving at least 25 people dead and over 100 missing since late November.

Rail …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oz deputy PM says flood-ravaged Queensland will need over 2 yrs to recover.

Last-minute deal averts crisis in Nepal

KATHMANDU – A last-minute deal between the ruling parties and the opposition Maoists averted chaos and possible violence in Nepal as the UN readied to pull out from the fragile peace negotiations after four turbulent years.

Amidst public fears of a new revolt by the former Maoist guerrillas, President’s Rule and a state of emergency, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Last-minute deal averts crisis in Nepal.

Chidambaram-Buddha letters renewing centre-state war?

KOLKATA – The letter war between union Home Minister P. Chidambaram and West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has prompted many to ask if the old battle between the central government and the Left Front-ruled state is raising its head again.

With seven letters being exchanged between the two since Christmas eve on the law …. Original source  : Chidambaram-Buddha letters renewing centre-state war?.

Japan foreign minister visits South Korea

SEOUL – Japan’s foreign minister called on North Korea to improve relations with the South before any other talks on nuclear and foreign aid issues could begin.

Seiji Maehara arrived in Seoul to meet with South Korean Foreign Minister Kim Sung Hwan and other officials on bilateral and international concerns, particularly security regarding Pyongyang.
The …. Source article  : Japan foreign minister visits South Korea.

Reince Priebus Replaces Michael Steele

MADISON (GaeaTimes.com)- On Friday, the GOP leaders ousted its controversial chairman, Michael S. Steele and selected Reince Priebus. The new chairman previously served as the general counsel of the Republican National Committee. He was voted as the new chairman of the party after Michael Steele lost his bid, after seven rounds of voting, for [..] Read the original article: here.

US Republican Party picks new chairman, ousts Steele

WASHINGTON – Michael Steele, the first African-American to head the Republican Party, was ousted from the post Friday after two years in the job.

Steele was replaced by Reince Priebus as chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC), which coordinates campaigns and fundraising for the conservative party, during a gathering of members in Maryland.
Steele …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Presidential Proclamation???Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday

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For Immediate Release

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., FEDERAL HOLIDAY, 2011

——-

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Half a century ago, America was moved by a …. Source article  : Presidential Proclamation–Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday.

President Obama’s Discussion with President Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia

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President Obama met with Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili after the memorial service for Richard Holbrooke.   Vice President Biden joined him for the conversation.  The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President Obama’s Discussion with President Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia.

Presidential Proclamation???Religious Freedom Day

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For Immediate Release

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM DAY, 2011

——-

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

Our Nation was founded on a shared commitment to the values …. Read the original article  : Presidential Proclamation–Religious Freedom Day.

Press Briefing by Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner, National Security Advisor Tom Donilon, and Press Secretary Robert Gibbs Previewing the Upcoming State Visit of President Hu of China

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For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Reaching Out to the Cuban People

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For Immediate Release

Today, President Obama has directed the Secretaries of State, Treasury, and Homeland Security to take a series of steps to continue efforts to reach …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Remarks by the President at a Memorial Service for Richard Holbrooke

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For Immediate Release

AT A MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR RICHARD HOLBROOKE
Kennedy Center
Washington, D.C.

3:33 P.M. EST

     THE PRESIDENT:  To Kati, Anthony, David and Elizabeth, to all the friends and … Original article on : Remarks by the President at a Memorial Service for Richard Holbrooke.

Obama honours Holbrooke as ‘hardheaded’ and ‘clear-eyed’

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama and other American dignitaries celebrated the life of late diplomat Richard Holbrooke Friday, honouring his endless determination to make the world a better place.

Hundreds turned out at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington to attend the memorial service for Holbrooke, who died suddenly …. Original source  : Obama honours Holbrooke as ‘hardheaded’ and ‘clear-eyed’.

Obama presses Zardari on Afghanistan

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari Friday, emphasizing the importance of cooperating to promote stability in Afghanistan, the White House said.

The US has continuously linked a successful outcome to the conflict in Afghanistan with eliminating the ability of the Taliban and Al Qaeda to operate in remote … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama presses Zardari on Afghanistan.

Statement by the President on Events in Tunisia

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I condemn and deplore the use of violence against citizens peacefully voicing their opinion in Tunisia, and I applaud the courage and dignity of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Memorandum from the President regarding the Richard C. Holbrooke Award for Diplomacy

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For Immediate Release

December 22, 2010
MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE
SUBJECT:    The Richard C. Holbrooke Award for Diplomacy
To honor the legacy of one of America's greatest diplomats …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Memorandum from the President regarding the Richard C. Holbrooke Award for Diplomacy.

President and First Lady, Vice President and Dr. Biden, Cabinet Secretaries, Senior Administration Officials to Honor Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service

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For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON, DC – In celebration of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service and in honor of Dr. King’s life and legacy, the …. Original article  : President and First Lady, Vice President and Dr. Biden, Cabinet Secretaries, Senior Administration Officials to Honor Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.

JD-S corporator shot dead in Bangalore

BANGALORE – Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) Bangalore city corporator Divan Ali was shot dead Sunday morning in a busy south Bangalore area, police said.

Ali, who had several criminal cases against him, was fired upon at Yarabnagar in Banashankari area which he represented in the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (Greater Bangalore City Corporation), a spokesperson of … Read : JD-S corporator shot dead in Bangalore.

Pakistan PM reshuffles top officials

ISLAMABAD – In a major reshuffle in Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s secretariat, Khushnood Ali Lashari has been appointed the new principal secretary to the prime minister.

Lashari, who was posted in the Establishment Division, has replaced Nargis Sethi, who has been shifted to Cabinet Division. Sethi would also hold additional charge of health …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Can’t India prevent attacks on fishermen, asks Jayalalithaa

CHENNAI – Opposition AIADMK chief J. Jayalalithaa Sunday said the central government was not doing enough to stop attacks on Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy, as incidents were continuing even after last week’s killing.

“Even before calming down of the situation after the killing of a fisherman (Jan 12), the Sri Lankan Navy … Original source on Gaea Times at : Can’t India prevent attacks on fishermen, asks Jayalalithaa.

Australia can discuss uranium sale issue: High Commissioner (Interview)

CHANDIGARH – Australia was willing to discuss the issue of uranium sale if India brought it up during External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna’s visit to that country next week, Australian High Commissioner to India Peter N. Varghese has said.

While maintaining that there is no change at present in Australia’s position on not allowing uranium … Read more >>>.

BJP demands rollback of petrol price hike

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has slammed the Central Government for its decision to raise petrol prices and demanded an immediate rollback.

Talking to reporters here, BJP spokesperson Prakash Javadekar said: “This hike is totally unjustified. This is nothing but loot of the common man by the government.”

“A product which costs … Read more »».

NDA to hold anti-corruption rally in Mumbai

MUMBAI – National Democratic Alliance (NDA) leaders led by senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader LK Advani will hold an anti-corruption rally here today

The “Bhrashtachar Virodhi Mahasangram” rally will be addressed by top NDA leaders.
Besides Advani, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj, Party President BJP Nitin Gadkari, Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NDA to hold anti-corruption rally in Mumbai.

Kashmir government to deal with BJP’s flag hoisting plans

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government will have to deal with Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) plans to hoist the tricolour at Srinagar’s Lal Chowk Jan 26 and its consequences on its own though the central government has promised to help in whatever way possible.

The central government, according to official sources, has told the …. Read the original article  : Kashmir government to deal with BJP’s flag hoisting plans.

Cherie Blair wore pendant to ‘ward off evil spirits, cope with life at No 10???

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair’s wife Cherie wore a pendant to ‘ward off evil spirits’ because she needed to be ’slightly mad’ to deal with life at No 10.

In the latest installment of diaries by Blair’s former spin chief Alastair Campbell, the first two years of Blair’s premiership have been covered, reports … Read more >>.

Gunfire in Tunisian capital after interim president sworn in

TUNIS/PARIS – Gunfire erupted in the Tunisian capital Tunis just hours after Foued Mbazaa was sworn in as interim president.

Tunisian journalists said it sounded like the army was moving against the presidential guard of longtime leader Zine el-Abidine ben Ali, who fled the country Friday to Saudi Arabia.
Mbazaa, the former speaker of parliament, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gunfire in Tunisian capital after interim president sworn in.

Nepal president asks warring parties to form government by Friday

KATHMANDU – With Nepal entering a new stage in its critical peace process Sunday after the exit of the UN, President Ram Baran Yadav has asked the warring political parties to form a new government by Friday.

“All the political parties represented in the Constituent Assembly are being asked to form a national, consensus government … Read more : Nepal president asks warring parties to form government by Friday.

Hundreds stranded at Tunis airport due to curfew

TUNIS – Hundreds of passengers were stranded late Saturday at the airport in Tunis, blocked from exit by a night-time curfew in a capital city full of unrest after the ouster of long-time president Zine el-Abidine ben Ali.

“The situation is very tense, no one may leave the airport,” a soldier said.
Restaurants ran out …. Original article  : Hundreds stranded at Tunis airport due to curfew.

Russia wants officials to be fluent in English

LONDON – Russia wants all its newly-recruited bureaucrats to be English-speaking people from the next year and is taking measures to have at least one-fifth of its federal officials knowing a foreign language by 2020, a media report here said.

The Russian government is moving to address linguistic shortcomings by multiplying the number of polyglot …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Russia wants officials to be fluent in English.

Dikshit discusses development with legislators

NEW DELHI – Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Saturday interacted with legislators from all constituencies in the capital on developmental issues.

There was a consensus in the meeting to rename slum colonies. A number of legislators demanded reorganization of ration circles. Some legislators demanded extension of Metro routes.
Dikshit appreciated that the legislators gave …. Source article  : Dikshit discusses development with legislators.

Seoul, Tokyo urge Pyongyang for denuclearisation

SEOUL – South Korea and Japan urged North Korea Saturday to take “specific action” to improve the climate to enable the resumption of six-party talks over the north’s nuclear programme.

The call was made as South Korean Foreign Minister Kim Sung Hwan met his visiting Japanese counterpart, Seiji Maehara in Seoul during the Tokyo minister’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PM, President laud army for dealing with challenges

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, and President Pratibha Devisingh Patil have lauded the efforts of the army in dealing with the challenges posed to the safety and security of the nation.

Extending his best wishes to the Army, Dr. Singh said the force had distinguished itself by its exceptional performance in the … Read more >>.

Mirchpur violence: Jat conclave demands fresh CBI probe

JIND – Tension prevailed here Saturday as tens of hundreds of members of the Jat Mahapanchayat, a congregation of leaders from over 42 khap (clan) panchayats, threatened to block roads and railway crossings demanding a fresh CBI probe into the Mirchpur violence.

According to police, the protestors squatting near Jind railway station at Delhi-Ferozepur rail … Read more »»».

Mayawati’s birthday celebrated in Agra

AGRA – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati’s 55th birthday was celebrated in grand style here Saturday with 1,400 beneficiaries of various government schemes being felicitated at a programme at the historic Ram Lila ground.

Of the 1,400, more than 50 percent were from the scheduled castes, Chief Development Officer Raj Srivastav said.
A number …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mayawati’s birthday celebrated in Agra.

PM condoles death of CPI leader’s mother

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday condoled the death of the mother of veteran Communist Party of India leader D. Raja.

“I was pained to hear of the passing away of your mother. Please accept my heartfelt condolences to you and convey the same to your family. May the Almighty give you the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PM condoles death of CPI leader’s mother.

Delhi MPs to meet Lt Governor on house tax issue

NEW DELHI – A delegation of MPs from Delhi will meet Lieutenant Governor Tejendra Khanna Monday to protest the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s (MCD) proposal to collect house tax from residents of unauthorised colonies.

The delegation led by Northeast Delhi MP J.P. Agarwal will meet Khanna at 3 p.m. at the …. Read the original article  : Delhi MPs to meet Lt Governor on house tax issue.

Samantha Cameron is breath of fresh air for British Fashion Council

LONDON – Welsh fashion designer Julien MacDonald has said that UK Prime Minister David Cameron’s wife Samantha Cameron is a breath of fresh air for the British Fashion Council.

Samantha, 39, has been an unpaid ambassador for the British fashion industry for only four months, but she is already making heads turn.

“The British Fashion Council has …. Original source  : Samantha Cameron is breath of fresh air for British Fashion Council.

Bangla group’s shutdown call evokes partial response

SILIGURI – Normal life was partially affected in Siliguri in north West Bengal’s Darjeeling district Monday on the second day of the 48-hour shutdown called by the Bangla O Bangla Bhasha Banchao Committee (BOBBBC) protesting the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha’s (GJM) movement for a separate state.

“The shutdown evoked partial impact in Siliguri and Dooars (foothills … Read more >>>.

Kashmir panchayat polls to be held by April

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir will hold panchayat polls by April after a gap of seven years despite the separatists’ boycott threat and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party’s reservations about the timing of the elections, an official here said Monday.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the unified command, an apex panel … Read more >>>.

BJP finds it tough choosing Chhattisgarh by-poll candidate

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is finding it tough to choose a candidate to retain the crucial Sanjari Balod assembly seat in the Feb 14 by-poll.

“There are about 10 local BJP leaders in Durg district who have all claimed to fight the election, but the state unit (of the party) is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BJP finds it tough choosing Chhattisgarh by-poll candidate.

Silvio Berlusconi’s ’sex orgy’ flats found

LONDON – Italian prosecutors have discovered series of properties in the outskirts of Milan where Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi use to keep young women to perform striptease for him.

The claims, contained in 300 pages of legal documents, provide details for the first time of the so-called “bunga-bunga” parties that a teenage Moroccan nightclub dancer … Read more »».

We want budget session to function: Prakash Karat

KOLKATA – Communist Party of India (Marxist) General Secretary Prakash Karat has stuck to its demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into 2G scam but said he did not want the Budget Session of Parliament to be stalled on the issue

“We will stick to our stand on the JPC but we would also [..] Read the original article: here.

Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor to be model of bilateral ties: ex Japan PM

NEW DELHI – Former Japanese Prime Minister Yokio Hatoyama, who is on a two-day visit to India, has said the industrial corridor being executed between New Delhi and Mumbai would be a model of cooperation between both countries.

Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project covers an overall freight corridor length of 1483 kms. Japan will provide technical …. Read the original article  : Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor to be model of bilateral ties: ex Japan PM.

Berlusconi denies paying teen for sex, says he’s in ’stable’ relationship

LONDON – Italy’s Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has denied allegations that he paid a teenager for sex, saying that he has no need to as he is enjoying a “stable, affectionate relationship” with one woman.

Berlusconi, 74, is under investigation on suspicion of paying Moroccan dancer Karima el-Mahroug for sex at his mansion near Milan when … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi denies paying teen for sex, says he’s in ’stable’ relationship.

Fuel price hike: Trinamool Congress to stage statewide protest rallies

KOLKATA – The Trinamool Congress will hold statewide protest rallies here today against the UPA government’s decision to increase fuel price.

Trinamool Chief Mamata Banerjee has said her party would take out rallies across the state to protest the price rise as she understands the sufferings of common people.

“We are with the people. We understand … Read more »».

Chinese think China-US ties important, survey shows

BEIJING – Around 90 percent of the Chinese consider China-US ties important, a survey has revealed.

The survey, conducted by the China Daily newspaper and the Horizon Research Consultancy Group, also showed that 54.3 percent of respondents think it is very important for China to maintain good relations with the US.
Nearly 60 percent think … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chinese think China-US ties important, survey shows.

Ousted dictator ‘Baby Doc’ Duvalier returns to Haiti

Port-au-PRINCE – Ousted Haitian dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier has returned to his country after 25 years in exile, local media reported.

The surprise arrival comes as the poor Caribbean nation is in the midst of sorting out a disputed presidential elections with a run-off vote expected in the coming weeks.
The 59-year-old known as Baby Doc … Read more >>.

UPA second name of conspiracy against common man: Jaitley

LUCKNOW – The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) has become the “second name of a conspiracy against the common man” owing to its wrong policies, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley said here Sunday.

“If one takes into account the half-hearted attempts made by the Congress-led central government for containing inflation and combating …. Read the original article  : UPA second name of conspiracy against common man: Jaitley.

Kerala lottery scam being politicised: Karat

KOLKATA – The alleged scam in the sale of lottery tickets in Kerla was being used by the Congress and the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) to score points against the ruling Marxists, Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat said Sunday.

“As far as the lottery issue is concerned, Congress and UDF … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kerala lottery scam being politicised: Karat.

Election Commission team starts arriving in Bengal

KOLKATA – The six-member Election Commission team, looking to assess the law and order situation following an upsurge of violence in West Bengal, where assembly polls are due in May, started arriving in the state Sunday.

Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar Sudhir Kumar Rakesh, who will lead the high-level team, reached here Sunday afternoon followed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Election Commission team starts arriving in Bengal.

‘Gaza housing reconstruction to start Tuesday’

GAZA – Ismail Haniya, the de-facto Hamas leader of the Gaza Strip, has announced his government will Tuesday start a $500 million project for rebuilding the houses destroyed by Israel in the late 2008-early 2009 offensive.

Haniya told a Hamas-organized conference on the Gaza reconstruction effort Sunday that the first phase of the project to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Gaza housing reconstruction to start Tuesday’.

Ex-Japanese PM meets Sheila Dikshit in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, who is on a brief visit to India, met Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit here on Sunday.

Hatoyama will stay in the national capital for two days, during which he is also expected to meet Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

The former Japanese Prime Minister will then …. Original article  : Ex-Japanese PM meets Sheila Dikshit in Delhi.

Petrol price hike: NCP defends Central Government’s decision

NEW DELHI – The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has defended the Central Government’s decision to increase the retail prices of petrol.

State-owned oil companies had hiked petrol prices on Saturday by Rs. 2.50 – Rs. 2.54 per litre, the second hike in a month, due to rising global crude oil prices.

“People were aware about …. Source article  : Petrol price hike: NCP defends Central Government’s decision.

BJP’s Rath Yatra will worsen Kashmir situation: CPI-M

KOLKATA – The Rashtriya Ekta Jatra of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will further worsen the situation in the Kashmir Valley as the saffron party has no understanding of the situation there, Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat said Sunday.

“This yatra of BJP and its youth wing to Kashmir will further …. Read the original article  : BJP’s Rath Yatra will worsen Kashmir situation: CPI-M.

No objection to talking to Mamata: Tripura chief minister

KOLKATA – His party may be at loggerheads with Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee in Left-ruled West Bengal, but Tripuras communist Chief Minister Manik Sarkar Sunday said he was open to talking to her on bettering railway connectivity in the northeastern state.

Earlier, I had spoken to Banerjee regarding railway connectivity in Tripura. Now, the railway … Original article on : No objection to talking to Mamata: Tripura chief minister.

Karat terms Netai killings ‘unfortunate’, declines further comment

KOLKATA – Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat Sunday termed the killings of nine people in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district as “unfortunate” but denied to comment further as an investigation is on.

“The root cause of this violence in West Midnapore, Bankura and Purulia districts is the aggression and violence by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karat terms Netai killings ‘unfortunate’, declines further comment.

Election Commission’s Bengal trip surprising: Karat

KOLKATA – Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat Sunday termed the upcoming visit of a team of Election Commission (EC) officials to West Bengal as “unprecedented” and “unusual” and criticized the union home minister for turning a blind eye to the “Maoist-Trinamool Congress nexus”.

“The election commission of India has taken an … Read more : Election Commission’s Bengal trip surprising: Karat.

Expecting positive steps from government on JPC: Nitin Gadkari (Interview)

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari says he expects “some positive steps” from the government to break the deadlock over a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allocation scandal and feels a a way out could be found if “discussions are held in national interest”.

“We are expecting …. Source article  : Expecting positive steps from government on JPC: Nitin Gadkari (Interview).

Munda to be ruling alliance joint nominee for by-poll: Soren

RANCHI – Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) chief and Jharkhand’s ruling alliance steering committee chairperson Shibu Soren Tuesday said that Chief Minister Arjun Munda would be the joint nominee of the alliance in the assembly by-poll scheduled Feb 10.

“Arjun Munda will be joint candidate of the ruling alliance in Kharsawa assembly by-poll,” Shibu Soren said …. Read the original article  : here.

Micheal Reagan Crticizes Ron Reagan’s Book

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- In the memory of his loving father Ronald Reagan, his younger son, Ron Reagan is all set to release a new book “My Father At 100″, where he stated that his father has possible traits of Alzheimer’s disease while he was serving his post as the President of United States. However, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Micheal Reagan Crticizes Ron Reagan’s Book.

Row over indian arms supplies to Nepal continues

KATHMANDU – Despite India denying a media report that it was resuming supplies of lethal arms to Nepal’s army, the row over the issue continued in Nepal with the opposition Maoist party Tuesday lodging an objection with Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal.

The chief of the Maoist party, Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, Tuesday … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Row over indian arms supplies to Nepal continues.

PM meets Sonia, cabinet reshuffle buzz grows louder

NEW DELHI – Congress president Sonia Gandhi Tuesday met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for nearly two hours amid a growing buzz about an imminent reshuffle of the union council of ministers.

Gandhi, who heads the ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA), met Manmohan Singh at his official 7, Race Course Road residence in New … Original source on Gaea Times at : PM meets Sonia, cabinet reshuffle buzz grows louder.

MQM introduces bill to rid Pakistan of weapons

ISLAMABAD – The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has submitted a draft bill in the National Assembly seeking to rid Pakistan of weapons so as to “restore public order in the country”.

The Deweaponisation of Pakistan Bill of 2011, a private members bill, was submitted Monday. It seeks a ban on the production, proliferation, smuggling, import … Read more >>>.

Kashmir interlocutors meet opposition leaders in Jammu

JAMMU – Aiming to reach out to all political parties active in Jammu and Kashmir, the three-member panel of Kashmir interlocutors appointed by the Central Government met senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Jammu.

During the meeting, veteran journalist Dileep Padgaonkar, academician Radha Kumar and former Chief Information Commissioner M.M. Ansari discussed a …. Original article  : Kashmir interlocutors meet opposition leaders in Jammu.

Manmohan Singh discusses Maoist issue with civil society members

NEW DELHI – Seeking to find plausible measures to curtail rampant Maoist extremism in the country, the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, met a delegation of academics, artistes and intellectuals here and discussed the issue.

Besides several members of the civil society, the delegation included Brattya Basu and Saoli Mitra, renowned theatre personalities from West Bengal, …. Original source  : Manmohan Singh discusses Maoist issue with civil society members.

Guessing game over who could be Silvio Berlusconi’s steady woman

LONDON – After Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi claimed that he could not have had sex with an underage prostitute as he is in a steady relationship, the guessing game is on as to who the mystery woman is.

Berlusconi, 74, had claimed in a televised address that he has been seeing the mystery woman for …. Source article  : Guessing game over who could be Silvio Berlusconi’s steady woman.

Manmohan Singh discusses Cabinet reshuffle with Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Tuesday met Congress President Sonia Gandhi amid speculation that a reshuffle of the Union Council of Ministers is on the cards later this week.

Gandhi met Dr. Singh at his 7 Race Course residence. She was accompanied by her political secretary Ahmed Patel.

The meeting …. Original source  : Manmohan Singh discusses Cabinet reshuffle with Sonia Gandhi.

Dalai Lama should not retire, say Tibetans

DHARAMSALA – Urging Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, to reconsider his decision to retire, Samdhong Rinpoche, Prime Minister in-exile of Tibet has said the Dalai Lama should not take complete retirement till their cause of Tibetan autonomy is achieved.

Talking to reporters here, Rinpoche said the Dalai Lama cannot retire as he has to lead …. Source  : Dalai Lama should not retire, say Tibetans.

Manmohan Singh a failure on economic front, says BJP

BHUBANESWAR – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his “poor economic policy” were responsible for the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari said here Tuesday.

“The country is suffering because of the poor economic policy of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh,” Gadkari said.
Addressing a press conference at this Orissa capital …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoist make new threats as foreign secretary begins Nepal visit

KATHMANDU – As Indian Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao, the first high-ranking official sent by New Delhi since Nepal entered a new stage in its peace process, begins her three-day visit Tuesday, the prospect of striking a rapport with the opposition Maoist party seems remote with the former guerrillas threatening a fresh storm.

Ahead of Rao’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoist make new threats as foreign secretary begins Nepal visit.

Prime Minister Of Italy Prostituted Young Women

MILAN, ITALY (GaeaTimes.com)- It has been alleged that Prime Minister Of Italy, Silvio Berlusconi, has kept about fourteen young women, as his mistress, in some of his posh residences, all over his home town Milan. Most of these young and attractive women are from the world of glamor as reported by the media.
After the …. Source  : Prime Minister Of Italy Prostituted Young Women.

Bangladesh summons Indian envoy to protest border killing

DHAKA – Ahead of bilateral talks between their officials Tuesday, Bangladesh summoned the Indian high commissioner to lodge a formal protest against the Indian border force allegedly killing a girl crossing the border with her family.

Indian High Commissioner Rajit Mitter was summoned to the foreign office Monday for a formal protest. Dhaka termed it …. Original article  : Bangladesh summons Indian envoy to protest border killing.

Political commentator Bhabani Sen Gupta dead

NEW DELHI – Eminent political commentator, writer and novelist Bhabani Sen Gupta, also known as Chanakya Sen, died here early Tuesday. He was 89, his family said.

Sen Gupta had written a number books on political affairs, including “Rajiv Gandhi: A Political Study” and specialised on Afghanistan, Southeast Asia and on Indo-US relations.
He resigned … Original source on Gaea Times at : Political commentator Bhabani Sen Gupta dead.

Jammu leaders pitch for delimitation of seats

JAMMU – The long-pending issue of delimitation of parliamentary and assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir has come to the fore with the government-appointed interlocutors promising the state’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders that they will take up the matter with the Election Commission.

The matter was raised by leaders of the BJP and … Read : Jammu leaders pitch for delimitation of seats.

SAARC to get first woman secretary general

DHAKA – The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is set to get its first woman secretary general – a 36-year-old Maldivian lawyer.

The SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu has confirmed that former lawmaker of the Maldives, Fathimath Dhiyana Saeed, will be appointed SAARC secretary general March 1, The Daily Star said, quoting diplomatic sources.
… Read more : SAARC to get first woman secretary general.

No clear leader between Obama, Republicans: poll

WASHINGTON – Ahead of a crucial vote in Congress, a new Gallup poll suggests that Americans are not clear who should have more influence over the nation’s direction in the next year – President Barack Obama or the Republicans.

Forty-five percent want Obama to have more influence, while 42 percent prefer the Republicans. This …. Original article  : No clear leader between Obama, Republicans: poll.

`Real negotiations’ may begin on UN Security Council reform: UN

NEW YORK – Negotiations among governments to reform the UN Security Council may enter a new phase this year with serious talks to meet demands to enlarge the body to include countries like India, Germany and Japan as permanent members, the UN said Monday.

Germany, Japan, India and Brazil – known as the G4 – …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : `Real negotiations’ may begin on UN Security Council reform: UN.

Alagiri open to accepting DMK party post

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK’s leader and union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister M.K. Alagiri Wednesday said he would not demand any party post but would accept one if given.

Alagiri, also the DMK’s South Zone organising secretary, was answering a question on whether he would be offered a bigger responsibility by the DMK party … Original article on : Alagiri open to accepting DMK party post.

Munda files nomination for Kharsawa by-poll

RANCHI – Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda of the Bharatiya janata Party (BJP) Wednesday filed his nomination papers for the Kharsawa assembly by-poll scheduled Feb 10.

Munda filed his nomination at the sub-divisional office in Kharsawa. He was accompanied by Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) chief and chairman of the steering committee of the ruling … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Munda files nomination for Kharsawa by-poll.

Trinamool working with Maoists, Buddhadeb tells PM, Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Wednesday met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Home Minister P. Chidambaram here to discuss the political violence in his state, and said the Trinamool Congress was openly working with Maoists.

“This morning I have met Chidambaram and right now I am coming from the prime minister’s …. Source  : Trinamool working with Maoists, Buddhadeb tells PM, Chidambaram.

Kashmir interlocutors ask BJP to reconsider flag hoisting plan

JAMMU – Three interlocutors on Jammu and Kashmir Wednesday made a forceful plea to the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) to “reconsider” its decision to hoist the national tricolour in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk.

Briefing media about their fourth visit of the state, the interlocutors said they were making this suggestion because of the situation in …. Source article  : Kashmir interlocutors ask BJP to reconsider flag hoisting plan.

Cabinet Reshuffle To Take Place

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The ruling UPA government led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is going to witness its first cabinet reshuffle post its win in 2009. The change is meant for revamping the image of the government which is massively hit by a number of scams and poor performance of existing ministers that are …. Source  : Cabinet Reshuffle To Take Place.

Dick Cheney On “The Today Show”

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Dick Cheney, the former Vice President of United States, who is again back to the public eye after his heart surgery appeared on NBC’s “The Today Show” show on Tuesday. The former Vice President gave an exclusive interview, where he spoke about the present political condition, criticized President Barack Obama’s administration and …. Original article  : Dick Cheney On “The Today Show”.

Cabinet urges governor not to sanction Yeddyurappa’s prosecution

BANGALORE – Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj had made up his mind to grant sanction to prosecute Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa over land scam charges after Jan 26, a cabinet minister revealed Wednesday.

“The governor had told Yeddyurappa on Dec 31 that he has no option but to grant sanction for prosecution and he would do …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJP’s flag-hoisting march: Omar meets Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met union Home Minister P. Chidambaram here Wednesday ahead of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) march to Srinagar’s Lal Chowk to hoist the tricolour on the Republic Day against the state government’s wishes.

The two leaders also discussed the road ahead for the …. Source article  : BJP’s flag-hoisting march: Omar meets Chidambaram.

We will win on sea of development and peace: Assam CM Tarun Gogoi (Interview)

GUWAHATI – Assam’s ruling Congress will bank on the twin mantras of “development and peace” to win the upcoming assembly elections for the third consecutive term, says Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, exuding confidence that the people of the state will vouch for his governance once again.

“We are not basing our optimism on mere rhetoric …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : We will win on sea of development and peace: Assam CM Tarun Gogoi (Interview).

India gears up to new diplomatic challenges at UN

NEW DELHI – From reaching out to smaller nations to taking up positions that it has not done so far, India’s external affairs ministry is gearing up to cope with the diplomatic challenges of high visibility and constant pressure of being part of the United Nations Security Council after a gap of nearly two decades.

… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India gears up to new diplomatic challenges at UN.

Cherie Blair ‘tried to use taxpayers’ money to buy ???3,500 Swedish bed’

LONDON – Barely a month after former British Prime Minister Tony Blair took charge, his wife Cherie tried to buy a luxury 3,500-pound bed for the family’s Downing Street apartment using the taxpayers’ money.

According to Blair’s former spin doctor Alastair Campbell, the Blairs agreed to pay for it themselves only after details of … Original article on : Cherie Blair ‘tried to use taxpayers’ money to buy ???3,500 Swedish bed’.

Feverish speculation ahead of reshuffle Wednesday evening

NEW DELHI – Union Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily was amongst the leaders who called on Congress president Sonia Gandhi Wednesday as speculation intensified over the reshuffle of ministries by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh later in the day.

The reshuffle Wednesday evening would be the first since the United Progressive Alliance (UPA)-II government was installed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Feverish speculation ahead of reshuffle Wednesday evening.

BJP campaign over corruption and price rise

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has came out all guns blazing against Central Government over the various graft allegations and the spiraling prices of the vegetables.

Addressing the media here, BJP Spokesperson, Ravi Shankar Prasad lashed out the ruling coalition for allegedly shielding the appointment of tainted bureaucrat P. J. Thomas as the Central … Original article on : BJP campaign over corruption and price rise.

Contradictions are manifest in utterances of BJP: Manish Tiwari

NEW DELHI – Slamming Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress party spokesperson Manish Tiwari has said that contradictions are manifested in utterances of BJP.

Addressing media here on Tuesday, Tiwari said that BJP’s utterances smack political opportunism.

“The contradictions are manifest in utterances of the BJP. On one hand you accuse the Congress of lowering the dignity of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Contradictions are manifest in utterances of BJP: Manish Tiwari.

Kashmir all set to stop BJP marchers from entering state

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir has made all preparations to stop the Bharatiya Janata Party activists from entering the state, highly placed official sources said here.

The marchers, who started from Kolkata Jan 12 for Srinagar to hoist the national tricolor in the city’s Lal Chowk Jan 26, will be stopped at Lakhanpur, the entry …. Read the original article  : Kashmir all set to stop BJP marchers from entering state.

Buddhadeb meets Chidambaram, discusses Bengal violence

NEW DELHI – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Wednesday met union Home Minister P. Chidambaram here to discuss the violence between Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and the Trinamool Congress workers in the state.

Bhattacharjee later told reporters outside North Block that he had a good meeting with Chidambaram.
The union home ministry … Read more : Buddhadeb meets Chidambaram, discusses Bengal violence.

Sargent Shriver Dies At 95

MARYLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- The founder of peace corps, and renowned congressman, Sargent Shriver left for the heavenly abode in Maryland, at the age of 95. He was admitted to a Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, on Sunday, where he left his breathe.
He has been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease since 2003, but his condition started deteriorating ever … Original article on : Sargent Shriver Dies At 95.

Female politician ‘organized lesbian romps for Berlusconi’

LONDON – A female politician, Nicole Minetti, has been accused of organizing girls for Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

It has been claimed that women paid to have sex with Berlusconi dressed in nurse and police uniforms and performed stripteases at parties.

The damaging allegations emerged in court documents, which are part of a probe into Berlusconi, … Read more : Female politician ‘organized lesbian romps for Berlusconi’.

Omar Abdullah meets Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met union Home Minister P. Chidambaram in the capital Wednesday, days after the central government announced a 25 percent reduction in security forces in the troubled state.

Abdullah also raised the issue of Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) rally to Srinagar and national flag hoisting Jan …. Original article  : Omar Abdullah meets Chidambaram.

Indian diplomat recalled after Air India flight incident

NEW DELHI/UNITED NATIONS – The external affairs ministry has recalled Indian diplomat Alok Ranjan Jha for allegedly misbehaving with a passenger on an Air India flight to New York and will decide on disciplinary action after he returns home.

He has been recalled. The ministry will take action after an internal inquiry, an informed … Read more »».

A British MP who wore a loud tie

LONDON – A British MP was speaking when an unidentifiable tune rang out – and the lawmaker explained that it was from a charity tie that he had accidentally turned on.

Nadhim Zahawi was speaking on education cuts when the tune rang out for about 20 seconds, Daily Telegraph reported Thursday.
The Stratford-upon-Avon MP said …. Read the original article  : here.

Decision on Yeddyurappa’s prosecution in two days, says Bhardwaj

BANGALORE – Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj Thursday said he would give in two days his decision on whether to sanction the prosecution of Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa following allegations of him being involved in land scams.

“I will let you know my decision in two days,” he told reporters a day after the state …. Read the original article  : Decision on Yeddyurappa’s prosecution in two days, says Bhardwaj.

My new portfolio not connected to farm suicides: Vilasrao

NEW DELHI – A day after being sworn in, Rural Development Minister Vilasrao Deskmukh Thursday said the Supreme Court’s observation on his links with moneylenders who harass farmers was an “isolated incident”. He also said there was no link between his new portfolio and farmer suicides in Maharashtra.

One isolated incident cannot be connected with …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : My new portfolio not connected to farm suicides: Vilasrao.

Gadkari in China on ‘first ever goodwill visit’

BEIJING – Nitin Gadkari, the first BJP president to visit China, said Wednesday that New Delhi’s relationship with Beijing “has evolved, has grown, has matured, and it has become truly multifaceted” over the years.

Gadkari, who arrived here Wednesday on a five-day visit, said he was looking forward to meetings with senior leaders of the … Read : Gadkari in China on ‘first ever goodwill visit’.

Pakistani minister quits, police round up his guards

ISLAMABAD – Minister of State for Shipping Nabeel Gabol resigned from the government Wednesday and in a dramatic move immediately later 11 guards at his Karachi home were rounded up by the police.

the daily Dawn reported that Gabol sent his resignation to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Wednesday.
He said he had informed President … Read : Pakistani minister quits, police round up his guards.

Mobile Number Portability service comes into effect today

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, will formally inaugurate the nation-wide rollout of Mobile Number Portability (MNP) service today.

This facility will allow mobile subscribers to switch telecom operators without changing their mobile number.

Service providers should complete all the procedures regarding portability within a period of four days. The subscriber will …. Read the original article  : Mobile Number Portability service comes into effect today.

US to build on Obama’s India visit this year: Blake

WASHINGTON – The US will build on President Barack Obama’s India visit through an intensive programme of collaborative activities that will see more “high profile visits and even greater engagement” this year, a senior US official has said.

Among the high-profile visits to India will be by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and other cabinet … Read more »»».

BJP youth wing will spearhead flag hoisting in Srinagar: Sushma Swaraj

NEW DELHI – Even as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reiterated its determination to hoist the Tricolour in Srinagar on Republic Day, the party leadership has revealed that its youth wing will be involved in the event.

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj revealed in a Tweet that it was essentially a … Original article on : BJP youth wing will spearhead flag hoisting in Srinagar: Sushma Swaraj.

Berlusconi’s rep says cash for girls was merely an act of charity

SYDNEY – Silvio Berlusconi’s representative has dismissed claims that the Italian Prime Minister paid money to have sex with the underage girls.

Giuseppe Spinelli, who is suspected of handling money for Berlusconi’s prostitutes, even unwittingly, described the scandal as exaggerated and said cash payments and apartments lent to the girls involved were merely acts of charity …. Source article  : Berlusconi’s rep says cash for girls was merely an act of charity.

Italian town councillor sacked for giving fascist salute

Rapallo (Italy), Jan 20 (IANS/AKI) The mayor of the northwestern Italian coastal town of Rapallo has fired a local councillor who was photographed giving a fascist salute outside a church after a mass to commemorate late fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.

In the photographs, culture councillor Gianni Arena was also pictured with fascist era memorabilia, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Italian town councillor sacked for giving fascist salute.

India asks Israel, Palestine to resume direct talks

UNITED NATIONS – India has asked the international community to work closely with Israel and Palestine to encourage them to resume direct negotiations leading to a comprehensive peace process for a final resolution of the conflict.

“While this has been stated several times before, and in many eloquent ways, yet this central truth bears repetition: …. Original article  : India asks Israel, Palestine to resume direct talks.

Obama’s ratings climb as public support surges

WASHINGTON – With more Americans approving of US President Barack Obama’s performance and more seeing him as a political moderate, he is riding a surge of public support, according to a new poll.

The latest Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll shows a boost in Obama’s approval numbers and the perception among Americans that he is … Read more : Obama’s ratings climb as public support surges.

Gadkari in Beijing for five-day visit

BEIJING – There is “consensus across the political spectrum in India for cooperative and cordial ties with China”, said BJP president Nitin Gadkari, who is here on a five-day visit.

Gadkari, who arrived here Wednesday, said he was looking forward to meetings with senior leaders of the Chinese Communist Party for talks on a wide-range … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gadkari in Beijing for five-day visit.

Remarks by the First Lady at her “100K strong” State Visit Event

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For Immediate Release

Howard University
Washington, D.C.
 

10:51 A.M. EST
 
MRS. OBAMA:  Well, it is wonderful to be here.  Thank you.  Thank you so much.  I am very excited.
 
I [..] Read the original article: here.

Berlusconi slammed over ‘use of policewomen’s outfits in striptease shows’

London, Jan 20 (ANI): Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been criticised by a police trade union for allegedly using policewomen’s outfits for striptease shows at his home.

According to prosecution documents delivered to parliament, the so-called “bunga bunga” sessions at Berlusconi’s villa near Milan involved female guests putting on and then gradually taking off skimpy …. Read the original article  : here.

Berlusconi didn’t lay one finger on me, insists teenage belly dancer

LONDON – Despite telling a friend they had sex, the teenage belly dancer at the centre of an underage prostitution scandal involving Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has now insisted that he ‘never touched’ her.

Karima El Mahrough, 18, wept as she told one of Berlusconi’s TV channels that he ‘didn’t lay one finger … Original article on : Berlusconi didn’t lay one finger on me, insists teenage belly dancer.

Karzai to visit Russia

Moscow, Jan 20 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai will Thursday embark on an official two-day visit to Russia at the invitation of his Russian counterpart, Dmitry Medvedev, the Kremlin press service said.

Talks between the two leaders are to be held Friday.
Karzai will be accompanied by a delegation of 80 officials, ministers and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Karzai to visit Russia.

Obama Administration Officials: What They’re Saying About the Affordable Care Act

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On the day Congress voted on legislation that would repeal the Affordable Care Act, here’s what officials from throughout the Obama Administration were saying … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama Administration Officials: What They’re Saying About the Affordable Care Act.

Mayors: What They’re Saying About the Affordable Care Act

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On the day Congress considered legislation that would repeal the Affordable Care Act, it’s important to take a look at who is opposing repeal. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mayors: What They’re Saying About the Affordable Care Act.

Expected Attendees at Tonight’s State Dinner

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For Immediate Release

Below is a list of expected attendees at tonight’s State Dinner. Attached are details about the State Dinner, also available here (www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/China_State_Visit.pdf) .
THE PRESIDENT … Read more >>.

No true Hindu can become a terrorist : BJP leader

RAIPUR – A senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) functionary alleges that a corruption-mired Congress-led UPA government is making a deliberate attempt to involve Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) members in the name of “Hindu terror” to divert people’s attention from its inefficiency and failures. He says no one with basic belief in Hinduism can … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No true Hindu can become a terrorist : BJP leader.

Poll panel ready for elections in five states, says member

HYDERABAD – The Election Commission of India is prepared to conduct the upcoming assembly elections in five states, Election Commissioner V.S. Sampath said Friday.

“We are in a state of prepardness,” the central Election Commision member told reporters on the sidelines of the conference of election commissioners from South Asia.
“We require minimum logistics and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Poll panel ready for elections in five states, says member.

National Conference accuses BJP of arousing communal passions

JAMMU – The ruling National Conference Friday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was trying to arouse communal passions in Jammu and Kashmir and the decision to disallow the BJP activists to hoist the national flag in Srinagar on the Republic Day was the “right decision in the right direction”.

“The BJP is trying to … Read : National Conference accuses BJP of arousing communal passions.

No South Asia reference in US-China joint statement

WASHINGTON – The US has made clear that the absence of a reference to Beijing’s role in South Asia in the latest US-China joint statement did not necessarily reflect a change in policy.

“No. There’s no change in the US policy,” State Department spokesman, Philip J. Crowley told foreign media Thursday when asked if … Original article on : No South Asia reference in US-China joint statement.

Myanmar fills military quota in parliament with 388 appointees

YANGON – Myanmar’s junta has appointed 388 legislators to fill the “military quota” of the three chambers of parliament, which will first convene on January 31, state media reports said Friday.

The junta has appointed 110 military officers for the lower house, 56 for the upper house, and 222 for regional and state …. Source article  : Myanmar fills military quota in parliament with 388 appointees.

Never found anybody to spend my life with, says Condoleezza Rice

WASHINGTON – “I just never found anybody that I was going to spend my life with,” said former US secretary of state Condoleezza Rice, who was once considered one of the most eligible women in Washington.

In an interview with Piers Morgan on CNN International Thursday, Rice said: “I’ve always said that I expected …. Read the original article  : Never found anybody to spend my life with, says Condoleezza Rice.

Advani voices support for Ekta Yatra to hoist Tricolour in Lal Chowk

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader L.K. Advani has voiced support for the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha’s (BJYM) plans to hoist the national Tricolour at Lal Chowk in Srinagar on Republic Day, despite demands from various quarters to drop the plan.

Speaking at a reception accorded to the Yatra personnel here, Advani said: “I … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Advani voices support for Ekta Yatra to hoist Tricolour in Lal Chowk.

Labour lawmaker demands Oz Govt explanation on move to seek skilled Indian migrants

MELBOURNE – A Labour Party lawmaker in Australia has sought a clarification from Prime Minister Julia Gillard about an Indian newspaper report that suggested that Canberra is seeking more skilled migrants, especially from India.

Reacting to the report that has appeared in the Economic Times in India, lawmaker Kelvin Thomson said Australia should focus on training … Read : Labour lawmaker demands Oz Govt explanation on move to seek skilled Indian migrants.

Pakistani minister withdraws resignation

ISLAMABAD – Nabeel Gabol, who offered to quit as a minister Wednesday, withdrew his resignation after meeting Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, a media report said Friday.

Gabol was the state minister for shipping. He sent in his resignation and in a dramatic move immediately later 11 guards at his Karachi home were rounded up …. Source  : Pakistani minister withdraws resignation.

Nepal parties seek more time to form government

KATHMANDU – With President Ram Baran Yadav’s deadline to form an all-party government expiring Friday and the squabbling parties failing to reach an agreement, political leaders said they would seek five more days to name a new prime minister.

The three largest parties – the ruling communists, their ally Nepali Congress and the opposition Maoists …. Read the original article  : here.

All eyes on Raj Bhavan as Karnataka awaits storm (Letter from Bangalore)

BANGALORE – Karnataka stares at a political storm in the coming days as Governor H.R. Bhardwaj sits in his sprawling 170-year-old bungalow mulling prosecution of Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa over allegations of nepotism in land allotment.

Bhardwaj, who will turn 74 in May, has been poring over a 1,700-page document containing alleged irregularities in land … Original article on : All eyes on Raj Bhavan as Karnataka awaits storm (Letter from Bangalore).

Keep off Tibet, Taiwan, says Hu as US presses rights issues

WASHINGTON – Chinese President Hu Jintao has sought to assuage concerns about his country’s rising economic and military power but made clear status of Tibet and Taiwan was off limit as US legislators strongly conveyed their concerns over Beijing’s trampling of human rights.

Suggesting that both countries as well as the world can benefit from … Read more »»».

Obama likely to seek re-election: White House

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama is likely to run for re-election in 2012, a White House spokesman has said.

“I think it is likely that is going to happen,” said Robert Gibbs during a regular briefing Thursday, noting the bid would not be official until Obama filed papers with the Federal Election Commission … Read : Obama likely to seek re-election: White House.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/20/2011

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

REMARKS BY THE FIRST LADY DURING LET’S MOVE! WALMART ANNOUNCEMENT

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For Immediate Release

THEARC
Washington, D.C.
 

9:58 A.M. EST
 
MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you all.  Thank you so much.  Look, I am so excited to be here …. Source  : REMARKS BY THE FIRST LADY DURING LET’S MOVE! WALMART ANNOUNCEMENT.

First Lady Michelle Obama Announces Collaboration with Walmart in Support of Let’s Move! Campaign

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First Lady Michelle Obama joined Walmart executives today to help launch the company’s Nutrition Charter, a groundbreaking new initiative that has the potential to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : First Lady Michelle Obama Announces Collaboration with Walmart in Support of Let’s Move! Campaign.

Yeddyurappa accuses Bhardwaj of bias over plea for prosecution

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S.Yeddyurappa Thursday accused Governor H.R. Bhardwaj of being biased against him over the plea to sanction prosecution of the chief minister over alleged land scams.

Strongly protesting against Bhardwaj’s remark of ‘ulta chor kotwal ko dante (it is like a thief reprimanding police) earlier Thursday, Yeddyurappa said by such statements … Original source on Gaea Times at : Yeddyurappa accuses Bhardwaj of bias over plea for prosecution.

Congress leadership to finalise changes in AICC

NEW DELHI – After the reshuffle in the council of ministers Wednesday, the Congress leadership is expected to finalise changes in the All India Congress Committee (AICC) lineup, party sources here said.

They said that Congress president Sonia Gandhi was finalising the contours of the changes in the party’s office-bearers, and the process may …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Congress leadership to finalise changes in AICC.

South Korea accepts North’s proposal for military talks

SEOUL – South Korea said Thursday that it would accept a proposal from North Korea to hold high-level military talks, but set conditions.

Seoul’s acceptance came after a suggestion for the meeting from the North earlier Thursday.
The overture followed the rising of tensions on the Korean Peninsula with the sinking of a South Korean …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : South Korea accepts North’s proposal for military talks.

Australia assures India about security of Indian students

MELBOURNE – Australia Thursday reassured India that the safety and security of the Indian community and students will continue to be addressed pro-actively.

“I have also just met with the new premier of Victoria Province, who had made the law and order situation in Melbourne as one of the major issues of his election …. Original source  : Australia assures India about security of Indian students.

Bangalore Bandh Gets Effective

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The BJP party workers in Bangalore have gone down to streets in order too make the Bangalore Bandh more effective. The protest by the BJP workers began at KR Puram on Friday. At about 9:30 p.m the bandh started taking a bitter turn, when several BJP workers got down on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bangalore Bandh Gets Effective.

Haryana has five lakh new voters

CHANDIGARH – Haryana has added close to five lakh new voters to its electoral lists, taking the total number to some 13 lakh, an official said Saturday.

As per the final voter list published Jan 5, the number of voters have increased by 491,443 in the state.
“Now there are 13,249,421 voters in Haryana. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Haryana has five lakh new voters.

BJP asks Omar to participate in Lal Chowk flag-hoisting

CHANDIGARH – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday said it had the right to hoist the national flag anywhere in the country, with party MP Anurag Thakur even asking Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to join in the party’s plan to unfurl the tricolour at Lal Chowk in Srinagar Jan 26.

“We are living …. Read the original article  : BJP asks Omar to participate in Lal Chowk flag-hoisting.

Pakistan on the brink of economic collapse, says PML-Q

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) has said the country was “at the brink of economic collapse” and that a turnaround was not possible unless peace comes to Karachi.

PML-Q president Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and general secretary Mushahid Hussain Sayed, addressing a press conference in Karachi Friday, said they had handed over to the …. Original article  : Pakistan on the brink of economic collapse, says PML-Q.

Karnataka shutdown over Yeddyurappa prosecution turns violent

BANGALORE – Buses were burnt, stones were pelted and shops were attacked across Karnataka to enforce a shutdown called by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday to protest Governor H.R. Bhardwaj’s sanction for Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa’s prosecution on corruption charges.

Hundreds of people were stranded at bus terminals and rail stations …. Read the original article  : Karnataka shutdown over Yeddyurappa prosecution turns violent.

Chidambaram says BJP’s Karnataka shutdown call is unacceptable

BANGALORE – Slamming Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its shutdown call in Karnataka to protest against Governor HR Bhardwaj’s sanction for prosecution of Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa, Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram said it is not correct and is totally unacceptable.

In a statement issued here, Chidambaram said: “It is not the first time that … Read more : Chidambaram says BJP’s Karnataka shutdown call is unacceptable.

India asks Haiti politicos to exercise restraint

UNITED NATIONS – India has called upon all political actors in earthquake-hit Haiti to exercise restraint and avoid actions that cause violence and distract focus from the urgently needed reconstruction and rehabilitation work.

“We think that concerted reconstruction and rehabilitation work demands stable political and administrative conditions,” India’s permanent representative to UN Hardeep Singh Puri … Read more : India asks Haiti politicos to exercise restraint.

Iraq war victims’ relatives shout, “it’s too late” as Blair regrets loss of lives

LONDON – Relatives of people who lost their lives in the Iraq war expressed anger at former British Prime Minister Tony Blair during the Chilcot Inquiry proceedings as he regretted the loss because of his decision to back the US in invading the oil-rich country.

The angry relatives reportedly shouted saying, “It’s too late” after … Read more >>>.

Pope’s ‘message to Berlusconi’: ‘Officials must rediscover moral roots’

LONDON – With Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi getting embroiled deeper in sex scandals, the Pope has said that ‘public officials need to rediscover spiritual and moral roots’.

In a remark, which may have been aimed at Italy’s beleaguered prime minister, Pope Benedict XVI told an audience of police officers that public officials must “rediscover their … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope’s ‘message to Berlusconi’: ‘Officials must rediscover moral roots’.

Karnataka shuts down over Yeddyurappa’s prosecution

BANGALORE – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a statewide shutdown in Karnataka today to protest against Governor HR Bhardwaj’s sanction for prosecution of Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa.

BJP has ruled out Yeddyurappa’s resignation in the wake of the Governor’s action.

Majority of shops and business establishments across the state remaining closed while schools … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karnataka shuts down over Yeddyurappa’s prosecution.

Chidambaram backs Bhardwaj on Yeddyurappa’s prosecution

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Saturday supported Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj’s decision to allow the filing of criminal cases and prosecute Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa on corruption charges.

The home minister stated that the central government had taken note of the developments in Karnataka and said it was not a unique case when …. Original source  : Chidambaram backs Bhardwaj on Yeddyurappa’s prosecution.

Man wins race, crowned Nepal’s new ‘PM’

KATHMANDU – More than six months after Nepal’s prime minister Madhav Kumar Nepal resigned and warring political parties failed to name his successor even after 16 rounds of elections, the republic has got a mock “prime minister” – chosen after he won a race!

Harendra Bhatt defeated 54 competitors to lift the title of the … Read more >>.

Berlusconi’s 14 ‘bunga bunga’ girls evicted from luxury ‘Dolls House’ flats

LONDON – Fourteen women who were regulars at Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s infamous ‘bunga bunga’ sex parties have been evicted from their homes.

The women, who were given the apartments by the 74-year-old Prime Minister, were thrown out after the residents association complained they ‘lowered the tone,’ reports the Daily Mail.

The gates complex on the … Read more >>.

Make flag-hoisting at Srinagar all-party event: Gadkari

BEIJING – BJP president Nitin Gadkari has justified the BJP Yuva Morcha Kashmir Yatra to hoist the national flag in Srinagar and appealed to the Congress party as well as the National Conference to join his party and make it an all-party event.

He said the BJP’s Muslim workers in Jammu & Kashmir were supporting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Make flag-hoisting at Srinagar all-party event: Gadkari.

Tepid changes made cabinet reshuffle a non-event (Comment)

Although a cabinet reshuffle usually arouses more hope than what it fulfils, it is still awaited with eager anticipation because of the promise of a new beginning. This time, however, the exercise has been a disappointment because of the tepid nature of the changes.

If the expectations were high earlier, the reason was the …. Source article  : Tepid changes made cabinet reshuffle a non-event (Comment).

Iran, world powers resume nuclear talks in Istanbul

ISTANBUL – Iran and six world powers held the first of two days of talks on Iran’s controversial nuclear programme in Istanbul, with both sides hoping a positive approach could make headway in the stand-off.

Iran’s National Security Council, of which Iranian chief nuclear negotiator Saeid Jalili is the secretary general, said the talks had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iran, world powers resume nuclear talks in Istanbul.

President Honors Outstanding Science, Math, Engineering Mentors

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President Obama today named 11 individuals and 4 organizations as recipients of the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring.  … Read more >>.

Remarks by the President on the Economy in Schenectady, New York

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For Immediate Release

Location: 

General Electric Plant …. Original article  : Remarks by the President on the Economy in Schenectady, New York.

Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs aboard Air Force One en route Schenectady, New York

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

11:55 A.M. EST

     MR. GIBBS:  What’s going on?
 
     Q    Can you confirm this story the President warned Hu Jintao that if China didn’t step up … Original article on : Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs aboard Air Force One en route Schenectady, New York.

Yeddyurappa says Bhardwaj not giving copy of sanction order

BANGALORE – Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa late Friday said Governor H.R. Bhardwaj had refused to provide him with a copy of the order allowing his prosecution over corruption charges but had released it to the media.

In a letter to Bhardwaj, released to the media, Yeddyurappa said he had deputed a senior officer who met … Original article on : Yeddyurappa says Bhardwaj not giving copy of sanction order.

PM’s remark on flag hoisting a ‘psychological surrender’: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Sunday accused Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of “psychologically surrendering” to Kashmir separatists by describing the party’s decision to hoist the national flag in Srinagar as “divisive”.

Addressing media persons here, BJP senior leader Arun Jaitley said: “When two people speak in New Delhi about the segregation …. Read the original article  : here.

Pakistan cabinet to be ‘rightsized’

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan cabinet is going to be “rightsized” and the restructuring of the cabinet will lead to some ministers being shunted out, a media report said Sunday.

The Nation reported that some ministers in the federal cabinet are being removed as part of rightsizing, apparently to meet a demand of the Pakistan Muslim …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan cabinet to be ‘rightsized’.

UK hate cleric urges Muslims to ‘issue fatwas’ against Cameron, May

LONDON – London based hate cleric Anjem Choudary has urged Muslims to issue a ‘fatwa’ against British Prime Minister David Cameron and Home Secretary Theresa May.

Choudary branded both leaders as the biggest enemies of Muslims in government because of their opposition to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UK hate cleric urges Muslims to ‘issue fatwas’ against Cameron, May.

Milan model had sex with Berlusconi ‘to thank him’

LONDON – For the first time, one of the women named in the Milan prostitution investigation has admitted that she had sex with the Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Maria Ester Garcia Polanco is the first of the so-called “bunga bunga” girls – a group of 14 women whom Milan prosecutors allege …. Read the original article  : Milan model had sex with Berlusconi ‘to thank him’.

BJP workers taken for a ride – back home

AHMEDNAGAR – Police and railway officials here hoodwinked Bharatiya Janata Party activists headed to Jammu and Kashmir for the Republic Day flag hoisting and shunted their special train back to Karnataka early Sunday.

The Bengaluru-New Delhi Karnataka Express, whose 18 bogies were full of Karnataka BJP youth activists, arrived at Sarola station in the district … Read : BJP workers taken for a ride – back home.

Sargent Shriver Funeral Attended By Hundreds

POTOMAC (GaeaTimes.com)- As the former Democratic Vice-Presidential candidate Robert Sargent Shriver’s body was laid to rest on Saturday, hundreds had gathered at the Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Potomac, Maryland to pay their tribute to the great man. His funeral ceremony witnessed the presence of U.S First Lady Michelle Obama along with Vice- President Joe … Read more >>.

Bal Thackeray turns 85, but no birthday bash

MUMBAI – Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray turned 85 here Sunday, but there was no birthday bash or beating of drums by party activists.

All roads leading to Matoshree, the Thackerays’ residence in Bandra east, were barricaded, and barring locals or authorized people nobody was permitted to enter the vicinity.
The tight security arrangements were … Original article on : Bal Thackeray turns 85, but no birthday bash.

Italian porn star applauds Berlusconi for his sexcapades

LONDON – Former French porn star Rocco Siffredi has claimed that he has less sex than Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi but at the same time praises his love of sex.

“I have sex one half of a half of a half of the times he does,” the Observer quoted him …. Source article  : Italian porn star applauds Berlusconi for his sexcapades.

Should Lenin’s body be buried, asks poll

Moscow, Jan 23 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A political party in Russia has launched an online poll asking whether the body of revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin should be buried.

Lenin died Jan 21, 1924, and his corpse was embalmed and placed in a specially-built mausoleum in Moscow’s Red Square.
The pro-Kremlin United Russia party launched the poll … Read more >>>.

Kashmir could resort to force to stop BJP flag-hoisting

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government has conveyed to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that it will be “forced to use force” in case the party goes ahead with its plan to hoist the national flag in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk on Republic Day, an official source said.

It has been conveyed to the BJP …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Land acquisition: Mamata gets dose of her own medicine

KOLKATA – Only a few years ago Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee had used her intense protests against forcible land acquisition to revive her electoral fortunes in West Bengal. But now the railway minister seems to be getting a taste of her own medicine with political rivals in a tit-for-tat strategy agitating against her on …. Source  : Land acquisition: Mamata gets dose of her own medicine.

Russia wants to bury Lenin?

Moscow, Jan 23 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The ruling United Russia party has launched a website announcing an online poll on the burial of Russian revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin.

The poll of the goodbyelenin.ru website launched Saturday has only one question: “Do you back the idea of burying the body of Vladimir Lenin?” The question requires a … Read more »»».

Somnath condemns Netai killings, political violence

KOLKATA – Former Lok Sabha speaker Somnath Chatterjee Saturday condemned the political violence in West Bengal and said murder of any person was “unfortunate”.

Murder of any person is unfortunate. Can anybody say that violence is good? Chatterjee told reporters on the sidelines of an event here.
At least nine people were killed and …. Read the original article  : Somnath condemns Netai killings, political violence.

BJP’s youth wing firm on hoisting flag in Srinagar

HOSHIARPUR – The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) youth wing was firm on its stand on hoisting the national flag at Lal Chowk in Srinagar on Republic Day despite Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s appeals of not disturbing peace in the “sensitive” Jammu and Kashmir, a party leader said Saturday.

The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) had …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP’s youth wing firm on hoisting flag in Srinagar.

Congress backs Omar’s measures to deal with BJP’s flag march

NEW DELHI – Backing the measures of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to deal with the march of Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) youth wing to Srinagar, the Congress said Saturday that the state administration was fully empowered to deal with the situation.

“Whosoever from any quarter, irrespective of ideology, religion, or political affiliation, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Congress backs Omar’s measures to deal with BJP’s flag march.

PM warns against divisive agendas, BJP dismisses appeal

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janta Party Friday dismissed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s appeal to refrain from “promoting divisive agendas” on Republic Day, saying they were “dismayed” by his statement, terming it as support for those “voicing anti-India sentiments”.

“It is not an occasion to score political points, to embarrass the state and local administrations, …. Read the original article  : here.

Chhattisgarh ministers violated poll code: Congress

RAIPUR – The Congress’ Chhattisgarh unit Saturday filed a complaint against two senior ministers of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for violating the model code of conduct imposed by the poll panel for the assembly by-poll in Durg district.

“We have complained against Home Minister Nankiram Kanwar and PWD Minister Brijmohan Agrawal to district … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh ministers violated poll code: Congress.

Mamata Banerjee meets Sonia Gandhi to discuss petrol price hike

NEW DELHI – Union Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee on Saturday met United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi at 10 Janpath in the national capital.

According to Trinamool Congress sources, the two leaders had a discussion …. Source  : Mamata Banerjee meets Sonia Gandhi to discuss petrol price hike.

PM asks parties not to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir

NEW DELHI – With the BJP’s youth wing planning to hoist the national flag in Srinagar on Republic Day, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday asked all political parties to refrain from “promoting divisive agendas” and stressed that peace should not be disturbed in the “sensitive” Jammu and Kashmir.

“It is not an occasion to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PM asks parties not to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir.

Will stall budget session for JPC, Bhardwaj’s recall: BJP

CHENNAI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday said it would stall the coming budget session of parliament over the demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe in the 2G scam and to force the recall of Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj who is behaving like a “Congress agent”.

“The impasse is not over as … Read : Will stall budget session for JPC, Bhardwaj’s recall: BJP.

PM condoles demise of vocalist Bhimsen Joshi

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has condoled the demise of legendary vocalist Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.

Dr. Singh in his message said the nation and the music world has lost a towering musical genius and the most famous … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PM condoles demise of vocalist Bhimsen Joshi.

Karnataka crisis: BJP leaders meet President Patil

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) delegation led by senior leader LK Advani met President Pratibha Patil on Monday and sought the removal of Karnataka Governor H R Bhardwaj.

Beside Advani, leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj and Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley led the delegation comprising …. Original article  : Karnataka crisis: BJP leaders meet President Patil.

Bihar politicians pay tributes to Karpoori Thakur

PATNA – Opposition and ruling legislators in Bihar celebrated the 87th birth anniversary of former chief minister Karpoori Thakur Monday, amid intense competition to claim the socialist leader’s legacy.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad are vying with each other for holding functions to … Read more >>>.

Orissa police threaten strike over assault on colleague

BHUBANESWAR – The police association in Orissa Monday threatened to launch a strike to protest an alleged assault on their colleague by a ruling party MP in Cuttack while he was on duty.

“If the government does not take action on the matter within the next 24 hours, we will not do any duty related … Read more : Orissa police threaten strike over assault on colleague.

Telangana activists disrupt government open forum

HYDERABAD – Pro-Telangana activists Monday disrupted the government’s “Racchabanda” (open forum) programme in the region by preventing ministers, members of parliament and other public representatives of the ruling Congress party from participating in it.

The Andhra Pradesh government launched the public interactive programme Monday aiming to take the administration to the people’s doorsteps.
Demanding the …. Source  : Telangana activists disrupt government open forum.

BJP leaders meet president, seek governor’s recall

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders met President Pratibha Patil Monday and sought Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj’s removal, with veteran L.K. Advani calling him biased.

“We have come to knock the doors of the president as his (Bhardwaj’s) way of dealing with things are against the constitution,” Advani said at the presidential palace, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mirchpur violence: Jat protest enters 10th day

JIND – Protests by Jats – over their demand for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into last year’s Mirchpur caste violence – entered the 10th day Monday, with community members blocking rail and road traffic.

Jat protestors have blocked the Delhi-Ferozepur railway line near Jind railway station and all highways and road links leading … Read more >>>.

Berlusconi’s party gaining support despite sex scandals

LONDON – It looks like the latest scandal over Italy’s prime minister Silvio Berlusconi’s riotous private life has done nothing to weaken his supporters’ faith in him.

A poll was carried out last week, as controversy raged over the findings of an investigation by prosecutors in Milan, which had been delivered to parliament on 17 December. …. Original source  : Berlusconi’s party gaining support despite sex scandals.

My father has clear conscience: PM’s daughter Daman Singh

JAIPUR – Novelist Daman Singh, the daughter of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, says the three attributes that set her father apart from the rest are his clear conscience, integrity and simplicity. Not interested in his professional life, the author wants to look at her parents just as “human beings” in her biography.

…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Karnataka crisis: BJP leaders to meet President Patil

NEW DELHI – The land scam case in Karnataka has taken a fresh twist with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership advising Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa to tread cautiously in dealing with the matter legally.

Yeddyurappa, who was in Delhi on Sunday for consultations with the party’s national leadership, was advised not to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Karnataka crisis: BJP leaders to meet President Patil.

Vladimir Putin’s ‘mistress’ denies she gave birth to his baby

NEW YORK – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s alleged mistress, Alina Kabayeva, has denied she gave birth to his baby son.

The former Olympics rhythmic gymnast has claimed that the child is actually her nephew.

“My sweet little nephew Arsenio has joined my ever-extending family in Moscow. Everyone, of course, thinks that he is my son (laughs),” … Read more »».

BJP march: Kashmir gateway turns into battle zone

LAKHANPUR – Police columns with armoured vehicles were Monday moving around and all incoming buses being checked at Lakhanpur, the gateway to the state, which resembles a battle zone ahead of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) planned march to Srinagar’s Lal Chowk Jan 26 that the government has vowed to prevent.

Most policemen deployed in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tony Blair didn’t have a cell phone during his PM tenure

LONDON – Former British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown have a less well-known distinction – their attitude towards mobile phones.

While Blair never had one during his tenure in Number 10, Brown never went without one, reports the Scotsman.

Brown became the first Prime Minister to get special permission to make mobile calls without first … Original article on : Tony Blair didn’t have a cell phone during his PM tenure.

Berlusconi ‘paid ???100K to TV weather girl’

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi paid 100,000 pounds to a glamorous TV weather girl after she attended his infamous sex parties, it has emerged.

Prosecutors have discovered bank records, which have shown that he gave Alessandra Sorcinelli money, reports the Daily Mail.

The payments started in 2010 and averaged 8,500 pounds a month.

According to the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Berlusconi ‘paid ???100K to TV weather girl’.

China lauds Indian IT professionals

SHANGHAI – IT professionals from India are welcome to China “because they are very good”, said a Communist Party of China leader during an interaction here with Nitin Gadkari, the first BJP president to visit the country.

Ding Xuexiang, member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China, Shanghai, told Gadkari that the … Original article on : China lauds Indian IT professionals.

`Pakistan cabinet overhaul like rearranging Titanic deck chairs’

ISLAMABAD – The overhaul of Pakistan’s federal cabinet “may be akin to rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic”, said a leading Pakistani daily, adding that “the obscene excesses and privileges of power at a time many in the country are struggling to make ends meet demands some serious change”.

An editorial in the Dawn …. Read the original article  : `Pakistan cabinet overhaul like rearranging Titanic deck chairs’.

Better set a precedent than follow, Yeddyurappa learns the hard way (Letter from Bangalore)

BANGALORE – The word precedent and its various forms will resonate across India in the coming days as Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj’s nod to prosecute Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa over corruption charges is hotly contested or defended.

The legality or otherwise of Bhardwaj’s decision may also be decided by courts with unprecedented speed as compared … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Better set a precedent than follow, Yeddyurappa learns the hard way (Letter from Bangalore).

Witness claims recordings implicate Syrians in Hariri killing

BEIRUT – Mohammed Zuheir al-Siddiq, a Syrian who used to work for Syrian intelligence in Lebanon, said Sunday that he has recordings that implicate some Syrian officers in the 2005 assassination of Lebanese former prime minister Rafik Hariri.

In a telephone call from an unknown location, Siddiq called Lebanese television New TV, which has close …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Witness claims recordings implicate Syrians in Hariri killing.

‘Russians want Lenin removed from Moscow mausoleum’

Moscow, Jan 24 (IANS/RIA Novosti) More than two-thirds of Russians want revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin to be removed from his mausoleum in Moscow and be buried, a poll has suggested.

In an online poll launched by the pro-Kremlin United Russia party, a total of 200,000 people have taken part so far. About 70 percent …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Russians want Lenin removed from Moscow mausoleum’.

Condemn Trinamool-Maoist nexus, CPI-M urges people

KOLKATA – In the wake of the recent killings of the Communist Party of India- Marxist (CPI-M) supporters in West Bengal’s Maoist-infested districts, the party’s state secretary Biman Bose Sunday called on the people to condemn the Trinamool Congress-Maoist nexus.

“Three CPI-M supporters were killed and one was injured after an attack perpetuated by Maoist- … Read more »».

Dhaka may clip anti-graft body’s wings

DHAKA – Bangladesh may clip the wings of its anti-graft body by amending the law.

The cabinet Monday approved proposals for amendments to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) law, curbing its authority to file graft cases against government officials amid growing fear that the anti-corruption watchdog is losing its bite and independence, The Daily … Read more : Dhaka may clip anti-graft body’s wings.

Disclose names of those with money stashed abroad: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday demanded that the government disclose the names of people who hold accounts in foreign banks and face criminal and tax cases in India.

“The people of India expect that at least the names of those facing criminal cases or tax litigation be disclosed,” BJP general secretary …. Original article  : Disclose names of those with money stashed abroad: BJP.

Rahm Emanuel Ruled Out From Elections

ILLINOIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Rahm Emanuel on Monday was barred by an Illinois appellate court to contest for the elections for the mayor of Chicago. The panel of judges has prohibited Rahm Emanuel from contesting in the elections of the mayor saying that he does not fulfill the criteria for the residency requirements that the office of … Read more >>.

Tension on Kashmir-Punjab border as BJP rally marches on (Afternoon Lead)

MADHOPUR/JAMMU/SRINAGAR/NEW DELHI – Tension escalated along the Jammu and Kashmir-Punjab border Tuesday as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) began a rally at the Madhopur bridge separating the two states, ignoring a call by Home Minister P. Chidambaram to abandon the march to Srinagar to hoist the national flag on Republic Day.

Among those expected to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tension on Kashmir-Punjab border as BJP rally marches on (Afternoon Lead).

Mayawati looks for new chief secretary

LUCKNOW – With state elections in sight and to focus on providing good governance, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati has sought repatriation of state cadre IAS officer Desh Deepak Verma from the centre to assume charge as the state’s new chief secretary, official sources said.

An officer of the 1978 batch, Verma is currently holding … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mayawati looks for new chief secretary.

Ethnic Indians among candidates for Malaysian poll

KUALA LUMPUR – Several ethnic Indians figure among the candidates nominated by the Malaysian Civil Liberties Movement (MCLM) for the 13th general election.

Among them is Sreekant Pillai, noted human rights lawyer and son of well-known journalist M.G.G. Pillai.
The parliamentary poll is actually due in 2013. But Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak said last … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ethnic Indians among candidates for Malaysian poll.

Book row: Malaysian government to talk to MIC leaders

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian government will talk to Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) leaders this week to resolve the controversy over a school text book that has references to the caste system among the Hindus, a minister said.

Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said Monday that he has a formula to resolve the issue and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Book row: Malaysian government to talk to MIC leaders.

Gadkari shown how China manages its party cadres

GUANGZHOU – Nitin Gadkari, the first Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president to visit China, evinced keen interest Tuesday in how the all-powerful Communist Party of China (CPC) strengthened management of its party cadres.

The CPC has set up 24 party member-management centres in different parts of the country to promote cadre building work, improve internal …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Return to Delhi, Chidambaram tells Sushma,Jaitley

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday asked Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Sushma Swaraj and Arun Jaitley to respect the orders of the Jammu and Kashmir government and call off their planned flag-hoisting in Srinagar by giving up the “path of confrontation”.

“I would request the two leaders of the opposition and … Read more >>.

Rajnath Singh on hunger strike in Delhi over ‘Tiranga Yatra’

NEW DELHI – A day after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj were forcibly escorted out of Jammu, former BJP President Rajnath Singh went on a hunger strike to protest against the Central and Jammu and Kashmir Governments’ decision to prevent the party from hoisting the Tricolour at Srinagar’s Lal … Read : Rajnath Singh on hunger strike in Delhi over ‘Tiranga Yatra’.

CPI stages state-wide protest over Telangana statehood issue

HYDERABAD – Demanding the introduction of a Bill for the creation of Telangana in the budget session of Parliament, activists of the Communist Party of India has picketed the Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy district Collectorates.

Raising slogans against the Centre for “resorting to delaying tactics” after the submission of the Justice B N Srikrishna Committee report, … Original article on : CPI stages state-wide protest over Telangana statehood issue.

Chidambaram asks BJP to respect orders passed by J-K government

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Tuesday said that the orders passed by the Jammu and Kashmir Government regarding Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ‘Tiranga Yatra’ should be respected.

In a statement, Chidambaram said: “Yesterday, I spoke to Arun Jaitley and Omar Abdullah. I told Jaitley that he and his colleagues had made their … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chidambaram asks BJP to respect orders passed by J-K government.

Omar happy with centre’s backing on BJP march

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is elated with the central government’s unqualified support in stopping the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) march to Srinagar and the treatment meted out to three top party leaders, sources say.

“The chief minister is happy with the centre’s support. Almost every one is speaking in his … Original source on Gaea Times at : Omar happy with centre’s backing on BJP march.

Preventing hoisting of national flag undemocratic: BJP

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rajnath Singh Tuesday termed as “undemocratic” the government efforts to stop the party’s youth wing from hoisting the national flag in Srinagar on Republic Day, saying it was their fundamental right.

“It is the fundamental right given to the people of India to hoist the (national) …. Source article  : Preventing hoisting of national flag undemocratic: BJP.

Berlusconi’s conduct ’sowing the seeds of an ‘anthropological disaster’

LONDON – The Catholic Church has slammed Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and warned that his scandalous private life may turn Italy into a moral vacuum.

Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco, the country’s most senior bishop, said Berlusconi’s conduct was sowing the seeds of an “anthropological disaster”, where young Italians would eschew abiding by the law and working … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi’s conduct ’sowing the seeds of an ‘anthropological disaster’.

Nepal mulls options as government formation deadline looms

KATHMANDU – As a presidential deadline for the formation of a new government loomed closer, Nepal’s warring parties failed to reach an agreement and began seeking options for the election of a new prime minister, after 16 bouts of futile voting.

On Wednesday, the deadline given by the President Ram Baran Yadav for the formation … Original article on : Nepal mulls options as government formation deadline looms.

BJP plans to hold rally near Punjab-Jammu and Kashmir border

MADHOPUR – As security personnel swarmed the area, top BJP leaders Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley and Ananth Kumar were Tuesday planning to hold a rally near the bridge separating the state from Jammu and Kashmir to signal their determination to go ahead with the plan to unfurl the national flag at Srinagar.

The three Bharatiya … Read more »»».

Kolkata college readies red carpet for old boy – Nepal’s president

KATHMANDU – On Friday, when Calcutta Medical College celebrates its 177th Foundation Day, the festivities will include laying out the red carpet for an old boy who rose to international fame: the first president of Nepal, Dr Ram Baran Yadav.

It is the first college of European medicine in Asia.
Still popularly known as … Read more : Kolkata college readies red carpet for old boy – Nepal’s president.

Public faith in governance in Italy hits all-time low: survey

Rome, Jan 25 (IANS/AKI) Italian confidence in public institutions – especially the government – has hit an all-time low, according to a survey by a research agency.

The survey by the Eurispes research agency reveals that 68.5 percent of Italians have little, or no faith at all in their government. The figures are up from …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Public faith in governance in Italy hits all-time low: survey.

Respect orders of Kashmir government, Chidambaram tells BJP

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday asked Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders to respect the orders of the Jammu and Kashmir government and call off their planned flag hoisting in Srinagar.

“The order of the Jammu and Kashmir government should be respected,” Chidambaram said in a statement, adding that there was no justification … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Respect orders of Kashmir government, Chidambaram tells BJP.

Pageantry, national spirit mark R-Day fete in Karnataka

BANGALORE – Pomp, pageantry and national spirit marked the 62nd Republic Day celebrations Wednesday in Karnataka as Governor H.R. Bhardwaj hoisted the tricolour and inspected the guard of honour at a ceremonial parade here.

Amid tight security on a sunny day with cool breeze wafting over Field Marshal Manekshaw parade ground, the governor unfurled the …. Read the original article  : Pageantry, national spirit mark R-Day fete in Karnataka.

India celebrates 62nd R’Day, military might on show (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – India celebrated its 62nd Republic Day with a grand parade of its military might and cultural diversity in the heart of the capital, with big and small events also held across the length and breadth of the world’s largest democracy.

From Jammu and Kashmir to Kerala and from Gujarat to Assam, … Read more »».

BJP activists, separatists held on peaceful R-Day in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Three Kashmiri separatist leaders and some Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activists were arrested Wednesday when they tried to take out their separate marches to Lal Chowk here in defiance of security restrictions on Republic Day that passed off peacefully.

Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front’s (JKLF) Yasin Malik, moderate Hurriyat Conference leaders Bilal Lone …. Source  : BJP activists, separatists held on peaceful R-Day in Kashmir.

March was to defy anti-India elements: Gadkari

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Nitin Gadkari Wednesday denied that his party was trying to derive political mileage from the flag-hoisting march to Srinagar as it was a rally to “defy anti-India elements in Kashmir”.

“Some people say there is politics in hoisting the national flag at Lal Chowk (in Srinagar). What …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : March was to defy anti-India elements: Gadkari.

No dearth of talent in northeast India: Tripura governor

AGARTALA/AIZAWL – The success of tennis player Somdev Devvarman, who won a gold medal in the Commonwealth Games, shows that “there is no dearth of talent in northeast India”, said Tripura Governor D.Y. Patil Wednesday.

“Somdev has become an immense source of motivation for all the sportspersons in India as well as Tripura. The people … Read more >>.

Bengal governor unfurls tricolour at colourful parade

KOLKATA – West Bengal Governor M.K. Narayanan unfurled the national flag and took the salute at a colourful parade as the state joined the rest of the nation in celebrating the 62nd Republic Day Wednesday.

Military parades, march pasts, cultural programmes and blood donation camps marked the day which was celebrated in cities, towns and …. Source  : Bengal governor unfurls tricolour at colourful parade.

Gadkari accuses Centre, J-K Govt. of playing politics over tricolour row

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday accused the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir Government of playing politics over the flag hoisting row, and terming the detention of senior party leaders as unfortunate alleged that they were bowing to pressure from separatists.

Gadkari slammed the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gadkari accuses Centre, J-K Govt. of playing politics over tricolour row.

Afghan parliament to be inaugurated amid tight security

KABUL – President Hamid Karzai was expected Wednesday to open Afghanistan’s second post-Taliban parliament amid tight security and in the wake of political wrangling between the president and lawmakers that plunged the country deeper into crisis.

Extra police were deployed around the parliament building in western Kabul while more checkpoints were seen throughout the city. …. Read the original article  : Afghan parliament to be inaugurated amid tight security.

Chandigarh celebrates 62nd Republic Day

CHANDIGARH – Chandigarh celebrated Indias 62nd Republic Day Wednesday with enthusiasm and patriotic zeal.

Pardeep Mehra, adviser to the administrator, hoisted the national flag and took the salute at a parade in Sector 17.
The colourful celebrations included a march past, a guard of honour and cultural programmes. They were watched by hundreds, including politicians …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chandigarh celebrates 62nd Republic Day.

Unite to face challenges, says governor

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Governor R.S. Gavai Wednesday urged the people to be united for the sake of the state.

“I suggest that all of you bury your difference of opinion and stand together to face the challenges,” Gavai said after unfurling the national flag here on the Republic Day.
Lauding the efforts of the government, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Unite to face challenges, says governor.

Andhra governor asks people to act maturely

HYDERABAD – Amid the movement for statehood to Telangana, Andhra Pradesh Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan Wednesday used the 62nd Republic Day to urge people to act with maturity and maintain peace.

At a time when protagonists of separate Telangana state are disrupting “Racchaband” – a public interaction programme launched by the government – and preventing ministers … Read more »».

BJP rejects Omar’s invitation to attend Republic Day celebrations

JAMMU – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday turned down Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s invitation to attend the Republic Day celebrations.

Abdullah spoke to senior BJP leader Arun Jailtey last night and invited him along with Sushma Swaraj, Ananth Kumar and other party workers to attend the Republic Day celebrations in Jammu … Read more »»».

Maharashtra celebrates 62nd Republic Day

MUMBAI – Maharashtra celebrated the 62nd Republic Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm Wednesday with Governor K. Sankaranarayanan unfurling the national flag at Shivaji Park here.

Sankaranarayanan took salute from the security forces at an impressive parade in Dadar in central Mumbai, which also saw participation of more than 200 school children.
Schools, colleges … Original article on : Maharashtra celebrates 62nd Republic Day.

Uttar Pradesh celebrates R-Day with patriotic zeal

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Wednesday celebrated the nation’s 62nd Republic Day with patriotic fervour as the unfurling of the tricolour, cultural programmes and march pasts marked the celebrations in this state capital.

The main function was organised here at the Vidhan Sabha Marg which was attended by Governor B.L. Joshi and Chief Minister Mayawati. Joshi …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mirchpur incident: Jats to call off protest

CHANDIGARH – Jats demanding a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into last year’s Mirchpur caste violence are expected to end their 11-day-old agitation Wednesday, an official said.

Jat representatives spoke about ending the stir after they met state Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda at Kaithal town late Tuesday.
Two rounds of discussions between Jat representatives …. Source  : Mirchpur incident: Jats to call off protest.

Delhi turns into fortress for R’Day

NEW DELHI – The Indian capital turned into a fortress on Republic Day Wednesday with thousands of armed personnel keeping vigil in the city and unmanned aerial vehicles watching from the sky.

On high alert for days, thousands of police and paramilitary personnel as well as National Security Guards (NSG) were spread across Delhi.
…. Read the original article  : Delhi turns into fortress for R’Day.

Defeat fundamentalists, Kashmir says on R’Day

JAMMU – On India’s Republic Day Wednesday, the Jammu and Kashmir government Wednesday called for the defeat of “fundamentalist and anti-peace approaches”.

Advertisements in newspapers read: Celebrating six decades of sovereign pride, Jammu and Kashmir greets the nation on its 62nd Republic Day.
It added: Let us defeat together all kinds of fundamentalist and anti-peace … Read more >>.

India showcases military might at 62nd R’Day parade

NEW DELHI – The 62nd Republic Day celebrations saw a spectacular showcase of India’s military might here, witnessed by millions on a cold but sunny Wednesday morning, to mark the day when the country’s constitution came into force.

Watching the parade at Rajpath, the grand boulevard in the heart of Delhi, was Indonesian President Susilo …. Original source  : India showcases military might at 62nd R’Day parade.

Republic Day celebrated in Tamil Nadu

CHENNAI – The 62nd Republic Day was celebrated across Tamil Nadu Wednesday with patriotic fervour, with Governor Surjit Singh Barnala unfurling the national flag at the Marina beach here.

Barnala also took the salute from the three wings of the armed forces and other security agencies.
Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, ministers and people appeared to …. Read the original article  : here.

India’s 62nd Republic Day parade begins

NEW DELHI – India’s 62nd Republic Day parade began in the heart of the capital Wednesday, marking the day when the country’s constitution came into force.

The parade at Rajpath, a grand celebration of India’s cultural and military might, had Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as chief guest.
He is the second Indonesian chief … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India’s 62nd Republic Day parade begins.

Palestinian negotiators criticize ex-UK PM Blair for ‘Israeli bias’

LONDON – Palestinian officials have criticized former British Prime Minister Tony Blair as being too paternalistic and of having a bias towards Israel’s security needs over Palestinian economic needs.

They accused Blair, envoy of the Middle East quartet, as seeming “to advocate an apartheid-like approach to dealing with the occupied West Bank”.

“The overall tone, without making … Read more >>>.

Nepal to hold fresh PM election Feb 3

KATHMANDU – Unable to elect a new prime minister even after 16 rounds of vote held throughout last year and failing two deadlines set this month for an all-party government, Nepal’s warring parties will now slug it out again next month during a fresh round of prime ministerial election Feb 3.

The Business Advisory Committee … Read more »»».

Cricket tourney in Israel to mark India R’Day

TEL AVIV – A cricket tournament for people of Indian origin was launched in Israel to mark India’s 62nd Republic Day.

The Republic Day was celebrated at the India House in Herzliya Pituah Jan 26.
After unfurling the national flag and singing of the national anthem, Ambassador Navtej Sarna read out excerpts from Indian … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cricket tourney in Israel to mark India R’Day.

Indians in Australia waiting eagerly for PM Manmohan Singh’s visit

NEW DELHI – Indians living in Australia are waiting eagerly for the visit of Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.

Singh likely to visit Australia in October this year to take part in the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Perth.

There has been no prime ministerial visit from India since former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Day after tension, Lal Chowk back to business

SRINAGAR – A day after curfew-like restrictions, life in Srinagar and other towns of Kashmir Valley bounced back to normal Thursday. City centre Lal Chowk, which had been tense over plans to unfurl the national flag there, was its bustling self.

Markets opened early despite the morning winter chill as transport plied normally to ferry …. Original source  : Day after tension, Lal Chowk back to business.

Shahnawaz Hussain supports Vastanvi

NEW DELHI – Reacting on the resignation of Vice-Chancellor of Darul Uloom Deoband University Ghulam Mohammed Vastanvi, Bharatiya Janata Party leader Shahnawaz Hussain has said the Central government or the people who do not believe in the fact that Gujarat is peaceful should prove it.

Slamming the Central Government on the issue, Hussain said if the … Read more : Shahnawaz Hussain supports Vastanvi.

New combat aircraft will turn India into global giant: US expert

WASHINGTON – India’s acquisition of 126 new medium multi-role combat aircraft will play an essential role in India’s transformation from a regional power to a global giant, according to a South Asia expert.

Eight countries and six companies eagerly await the Indian Air Force’s selection of a new medium multi-role combat aircraft.
The winner …. Source  : New combat aircraft will turn India into global giant: US expert.

Shot US Congresswoman Giffords moved to rehab center in ‘good’ condition

Tucson (Arizona, US), – Democratic Party Representative Gabrielle Giffords has been moved from a Houston hospital to a nearby rehabilitation center after doctors upgraded her condition from “serious” to “good.ccording to the Washington Post, the Arizona Democrat had been in the neuro-intensive care unit at Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center since arriving in Houston on … Read more : Shot US Congresswoman Giffords moved to rehab center in ‘good’ condition.

Clinton to visit India in April

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has said she looks forward to visiting India in April to advance the two nations’ efforts to forge an even stronger strategic partnership to promote a secure and stable world.

“I look forward to my visit to India in April to advance our efforts during the next …. Original article  : Clinton to visit India in April.

Berlusconi ‘has made Italians a laughing stock around the world’

LONDON – Italy’s bestselling Catholic publication has said that the sex scandal swirling around Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has made Italians a laughing stock around the world.

“Our young people abroad are called ‘bunga bunga’ Italians and that is not a flattering definition,” the Telegraph quoted the Famiglia Cristiana (Christian Family) magazine as saying in an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi ‘has made Italians a laughing stock around the world’.

Obama to travel to Brazil, Chile, El Salvador

Washington, Jan 27 (IANS/EFE) President Barack Obama took a moment during his State of the Union address to the US Congress to announce a tour of Latin American nations.

“This March, I will travel to Brazil, Chile, and El Salvador to forge new alliances across the Americas,” the president said Tuesday night.
It will be …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rahul Gandhi begins three-day Maharashtra visit

NAGPUR – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi arrived here Thursday on a three-day whirlwind tour of Maharashtra to boost the party’s membership drive among backward castes, minorities and women.

After landing in Nagpur, Gandhi proceeded by helicopter to attend a Scheduled Tribes convention in Gadchiroli. He will also attend an Other Backward Castes (OBC) convention … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rahul Gandhi begins three-day Maharashtra visit.

International ties may improve due to Wikileaks: Medvedev

Davos, Jan 27 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Revelations of secret US diplomatic cables by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks may have a positive influence on international relations, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has said.

“I believe that the Wikileaks affair should improve the international climate although a number of countries may consider these activities illegal,” Medvedev said Wednesday at the … Original article on : International ties may improve due to Wikileaks: Medvedev.

Egypt blocks Twitter

SAN FRANCISCO – Micro-blogging site Twitter confirmed Wednesday that its service had been blocked in Egypt, indicating a probable government crackdown on technology that could disseminate information about the widening anti-government demonstrations.

“We can confirm that Twitter was blocked in Egypt around 8 a.m. (Pacific Time, 1600 GMT) today,” Twitter confirmed on the @twitterglobalpr feed. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt blocks Twitter.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

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NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
Henry F. Floyd, of South Carolina, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit, vice Karen J. Williams, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

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NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
Katharine G. Abraham, of Iowa, to be a Member of the Council of Economic Advisers, vice Christina Duckworth Romer, resigned.
David …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

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Judith A. Ansley, of Massachusetts, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the United States Institute of Peace for the remainder …. Source article  : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate.

Message from the President regarding the annual renewal of the Cote d’Ivoire emergency

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TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
  Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a … Read : Message from the President regarding the annual renewal of the Cote d’Ivoire emergency.

Notice from the President regarding the annual renewal of the Cote d’Ivoire emergency

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CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO THE SITUATION IN OR IN RELATION TO CÔTE D'IVOIRE

  On February 7, 2006, by Executive Order …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Notice from the President regarding the annual renewal of the Cote d’Ivoire emergency.

Readout of the meeting of the National Security Advisor with the Delegation from the Economic Community of West African States

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National Security Advisor Tom Donilon welcomed a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to the White House today to discuss … Original source on Gaea Times at : Readout of the meeting of the National Security Advisor with the Delegation from the Economic Community of West African States.

Manmohan Singh says strength of NCC will be increased from 13 to 15 lakhs

NEW DELHI – Commending the National Cadet Corps (NCC) for their praiseworthy role in grooming the country’s youth, the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, on Friday said that the NCC is a proud symbol of national integration and of the values of …. Original article  : Manmohan Singh says strength of NCC will be increased from 13 to 15 lakhs.

Jay Carney To Be White House’s Press Secretary

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- In a rather unusual step by the Obama administration, former Time Magazine reporter Jay Carney is gearing up to replace Robert Gibbs and succeed him as the next Press Secretary of the White House. Senior administration officials have revealed that the former journalist would be officially announced as the new Press Secretary …. Source  : Jay Carney To Be White House’s Press Secretary.

Country will come out of political crisis: Nepal president

KOLKATA – An ongoing political crisis in his country notwithstanding, Nepal President Ram Baran Yadav Friday expressed confidence that the Himalayan country would emerge successfully out of it.

“Everything is going on well. We are in the peace process. If there is a problem, we will come out of the problem,” Yadav told media persons … Original article on : Country will come out of political crisis: Nepal president.

Omar pledges to keep Kashmir trouble-free this summer

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has made two resolutions for 2011: not to allow trouble-makers to spoil the valley’s summer and to launch an onslaught against corruption in the state.

“All efforts of my government are directed in ensuring that peace stays on in Kashmir,” Abdullah told officers here Thursday after … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Omar pledges to keep Kashmir trouble-free this summer.

Half-Brit woman at centre of Berlusconi scandal brands him a ‘piece of s***’

LONDON – The sex-crime accusations surrounding Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi are mounting.

Now, a half-British woman, who is under investigation for allegedly recruiting girls for the ‘Bunga Bunga’ sex parties, has branded him ‘a piece of s***’ who is out to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Half-Brit woman at centre of Berlusconi scandal brands him a ‘piece of s***’.

Menon meets Clinton to prepare for strategic dialogue

WASHINGTON – National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon is here to review implementation of initiatives launched during President Barack Obama’s visit to India and prepare the ground for the India-US Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi in April.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who would lead a high level US team to the dialogue co-chaired by Indian … Read more >>>.

Tunisia’s interim government reshuffled

TUNIS – Tunisian Prime Minister Mohamed Ghannouchi announced the make-up of a new interim government in an effort to quell the protests against his cabinet which included allies of the ousted president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali.

Prime Minister Ghannouchi announced the reshuffle on Tunisian television Thursday, Xinhua reported.
The caretaker government was formed after … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tunisia’s interim government reshuffled.

Statement by the President on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

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I join people here at home, in Israel, and around the world in commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day, as we mark one of the …. Original article  : Statement by the President on International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Statement by the President on NASA Day of Remembrance

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Fifty years ago, a young President facing mounting pressure at home propelled a fledgling space agency on a bold, new course that would push …. Source  : Statement by the President on NASA Day of Remembrance.

Statement by the President on the Killing of David Kato

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I am deeply saddened to learn of the murder of David Kato.  In Uganda, David showed tremendous courage in speaking out against hate.  He … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the President on the Killing of David Kato.

First Lady Michelle Obama Visits Fort Jackson, SC, to Highlight Intersection of Childhood Obesity and Military Readiness

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First Lady Michelle Obama traveled to Fort Jackson in South Carolina today to be briefed by Army leadership on the consequences of childhood obesity, … Read : First Lady Michelle Obama Visits Fort Jackson, SC, to Highlight Intersection of Childhood Obesity and Military Readiness.

Remarks by the First Lady at Basic Training Graduation Ceremony

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Location: 

Hilton Field …. Original source  : Remarks by the First Lady at Basic Training Graduation Ceremony.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/27/2011

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For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press …. Read the original article  : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/27/2011.

El Baradie joins anti-government protest in Egypt

CAIRO – Former chief of UN nuclear watchdog agency and Egypt’s reformist leader Mohamed El Baradie arrived in Cairo to join the ongoing protests against the country’s 30-year rule of President Hosni Mubarak.

The anti-government activists have planed a massive rally in the capital Friday.
The protesters want the government to end its 30-year …. Source  : El Baradie joins anti-government protest in Egypt.

CVC appointment: Moily meets PM, Swaraj to file affidavit in apex court (Intro Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Union Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday evening, fuelling speculation that P.J. Thomas may be asked to step down as Central Vigilance Commissioner following the apex court asking if the correct procedure was followed in his selection and the BJP’s Sushma Swaraj planning to file an … Read more : CVC appointment: Moily meets PM, Swaraj to file affidavit in apex court (Intro Roundup).

Need for re-look at poll expense limit: CPI-M

KOLKATA – Citing the devaluation of money since 2006, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Thursday said the Election Commission needs to take a re-look at the expenditure limit of Rs.10 lakh fixed for each assembly poll candidate.

Rabin Deb, senior CPI-M leader who was leading the party’s delegation at an all party meet convened …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Need for re-look at poll expense limit: CPI-M.

Pranab calls all-party meet Feb 8

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has convened a meeting of leaders of political parties Feb 8 ahead of the budget session in an effort to find a way out of the parliament stalemate over the opposition demand for a joint parliamentary committee probe into 2G spectrum.

The meeting has been convened ahead of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Voices of Health Reform: Kayla’s Story

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This installment of Voices of Health Reform can be found online HERE (www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/01/27/voices-health-reform-kaylas-story) .

Voices of Health Reform: Kayla's Story
Posted by Stephanie Cutter on January … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Voices of Health Reform: Kayla’s Story.

BJP to move court on ‘illegal actions’ against Ekta Yatra

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said Thursday it was planning to move court against the “illegal actions” taken by the Jammu and Kashmir and central governments to thwart the party’s Ekta Yatra.

A senior BJP leader said here the party paid the railways Rs.64 lakh by cheque for the rail …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP to move court on ‘illegal actions’ against Ekta Yatra.

Nepal President to meet PM next week

NEW DELHI – India and Nepal will hold wide-ranging talks next week on the eve of a fresh round of prime ministerial elections in Nepal when President Ram Baran Yadav will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his senior cabinet colleagues here.

Yadav begins his 10-day visit to India from Kolkata Thursday evening.
It will be … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal President to meet PM next week.

Protests continue in central Cairo

CAIRO – Protest demonstrations continued Saturday in central Cairo after the government-ordered overnight curfew expired, with the military taking charge of security after Friday’s violence.

While the atmosphere was still described as tense, the streets were calm as the Egyptian military were seen taking a non-aggressive posture as they kept watch, eyewitnesses said.
The riot … Read more >>>.

Mamata Banerjee will become first woman CM of Bengal, says survey by politicsparty.com

NEW DELHI – Mamata Banerjee will become the first woman chief minister of West Bengal with her party the Trinamool Congress (TMC) winning the 2011 assembly elections convincingly, according to politicsparty.com.

Politicsparty.com, which conducted a voters’ attitude poll, in all the 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal to understand …. Original article  : Mamata Banerjee will become first woman CM of Bengal, says survey by politicsparty.com.

Unrest continues in Cairo, say eyewitnesses

CAIRO/ISTANBUL – Unrest continued in parts of Cairo early Saturday morning despite the government-ordered curfew and military patrolling streets, eyewitness reports said.

The eyewitness accounts told of plundering of shops going on, while in two districts of Cairo, police stations were stormed by protesters, freeing the inmates.
According to an Al Jazeera television report, there … Original source on Gaea Times at : Unrest continues in Cairo, say eyewitnesses.

Indian parliamentary delegation calls off Egypt visit

NEW DELHI – A parliamentary delegation led by Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar has postponed its five-day visit to Egypt beginning Saturday, owing to the trouble and protests in the north African country, an official said.

“Our embassy and the Ministry of External have advised us not to proceed with the visit due to … Read : Indian parliamentary delegation calls off Egypt visit.

Need to cleanse political system: Rahul Gandhi (Second Lead)

AURANGABAD – Expressing shock at a Maharashtra official being burnt alive by the oil mafia, Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Saturday said there was a need to “cleanse the political system” and urged the youth to join politics to bring about change.

“I am shocked at the Sonawane case. I do not want it to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Need to cleanse political system: Rahul Gandhi (Second Lead).

‘Blair did no trust cabinet on ‘Iraq war discussions, feared leaks

LONDON – Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair did not trust his own cabinet and was “reluctant” to hold discussions with it on a proposal to go to war against Iraq fearing that details would be leaked, the UK’s top civil servant told the Chilcot Inquiry.

Though Blair has insisted that his cabinet was briefed throughout … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Blair did no trust cabinet on ‘Iraq war discussions, feared leaks.

What Is Happening In Egypt: Asks Stunned World!

CAIRO, EGYPT (GaeaTimes.com)- The unexpected and unprecedented crackdown on Internet services in trouble torn Egypt has taken the world by storm and technology community as well as political leaders are worried about long term implications of the blackout. The Internet outage has crossed 24 hours by now and mobile services in the country has … Read more »».

BJP accuses UP Govt. of failing to maintain law and order

AGRA – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Government in Uttar Pradesh of failing miserably in maintaining law and order.

BJP workers said the State Government is working against the interest of farmers.

“Mayawati Government is against the interest of farmers and businessmen. The whole state is caught in a … Read more >>.

Berlusconi urges Italians not to pay TV licence after being slammed on shows

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has urged millions of Italians not to pay their TV license after being slammed on a series of shows.

Berlusconi made his request after watching a TV show on Italian state TV broadcaster RAI called Annozero, with which he has clashed repeatedly, reports the Daily Mail.

Bizarrely, even before the … Read : Berlusconi urges Italians not to pay TV licence after being slammed on shows.

Give 10 years to politics to change system: Rahul to youth

AURANGABAD – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Saturday said political parties lacked democracy and appealed to the youth to give 10 years of their life to politics to change the system.

“I assure you, after 10 years, you will be proud of your decision, and the country’s politics will take a new direction,” Gandhi said, …. Source  : Give 10 years to politics to change system: Rahul to youth.

Corruption serious, need to cleanse system: Rahul

AURANGABAD – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Saturday expressed shock at Maharashtra official Yeshwant Sonawane being burnt alive by the oil mafia and said there was a need to act against corruption and “cleanse the political system”.

“I am shocked at the Sonawane case. I do not want it to be repeated,” Gandhi told reporters …. Read the original article  : Corruption serious, need to cleanse system: Rahul.

Political parties lack democracy: Rahul Gandhi

AURANGABAD – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Saturday said that political parties lack democracy but urged the youth to join politics through the Congress.

“Political parties lack democracy, their doors are closed,” Gandhi said while appealing to young men and women to join his party.
Gandhi was addressing the media on the final day …. Source article  : Political parties lack democracy: Rahul Gandhi.

Give 10 years to politics, Rahul urges youth

AURANGABAD – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Saturday appealed to the youth to give 10 years of their life to politics if they want to see change in the country.

“I assure you, after 10 years, you will be proud of your decision, and the country’s politics will take a new direction,” Gandhi said, urging … Read more : Give 10 years to politics, Rahul urges youth.

BJP’s Kashmir yatra: provocative, self-defeating adventurism (Comment)

It is difficult to understand why the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should have suddenly adopted a combative patriotic posture on Kashmir in the midst of its fairly successful campaign against the Congress on the corruption issue.

Prima facie, it is a self-defeating move. It has been criticised not only by its political opponents and …. Read the original article  : BJP’s Kashmir yatra: provocative, self-defeating adventurism (Comment).

Mubarak fires ministers, vows to stay, appeals for calm

CAIRO – Egyptian President Hosny Mubarak refused calls to step down, instead calling late Friday for his cabinet to resign amid nationwide protests.

Thousands of demonstrators, who were in the streets all day and remained past midnight in central Cairo, demanded that Mubarak step down.
“I have asked the government to resign,” Mubarak said in …. Original source  : Mubarak fires ministers, vows to stay, appeals for calm.

Remarks by the President on the Situation in Egypt

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State Dining Room … Read : Remarks by the President on the Situation in Egypt.

Mubarak fires ministers, appeals for calm

CAIRO – Egyptian President Hosny Mubarak in the early hours of Saturday ordered the existing government and ministers to step down and promised a new leadership.

Mubarak was making his first address to his nation since anti-government protests erupted this week, appealing for calm and promising reform. But protests continued in the country even as … Read more »».

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/28/2011

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Location: 

James S. Brady Press … Original article on : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 1/28/2011.

Egypt under curfew as protests continue

CAIRO – Egypt was under curfew Friday night as the government sought to put an end to nearly a week of demonstrations designed to unseat it.

Thousands of protesters ignored the order, running rampant through the street, clashing with security forces and attacking government buildings. The curfew – initially upon the cities of Cairo, Suez …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Readout of the Vice President’s Meeting with the Colombian Vice President

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Vice President Biden and Colombian Vice President Garzón met earlier today, and discussed a range of issues in U.S.-Colombia relations, which both countries are … Read more >>>.

Southern Sudan independence gets nearly 99 per cent vote

NAIROBI – Just short of 99 percent of southern Sudanese have voted to secede from the north and form an independent state, according to preliminary results released Sunday.

The Southern Sudan Referendum Commission said on its website that with all the votes counted, some 98.83 percent of almost four million voters had opted for independence.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Southern Sudan independence gets nearly 99 per cent vote.

Malaysian Indian lawmaker quits party, alliance

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Indian lawmaker N. Gobalakrishnan has resigned from the membership of People’s Justice Party (PKR) and the opposition alliance People’s Alliance (PR) after falling out with its leadership.

The first-timer from Padang Serai constituency in Kedah state said Saturday that he plans to stay as an independent.
Gobalakrishnan’s action to …. Original article  : Malaysian Indian lawmaker quits party, alliance.

Egyptian protesters find support among Yemenis

Sanaa, Jan 30 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Dozens of people took to the streets in Yemen in support of the Egyptians’ protest against their President Hosni Mubarak and also raised slogans against their country’s president Ali Abdullah Saleh.

The demonstrators, including opposition politicians and journalists, marched towards the Egyptian embassy in Sanaa Saturday, RIA Novosti quoted media …. Source  : Egyptian protesters find support among Yemenis.

10 killed as protesters storm Cairo building

Cairo, Jan 30 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Over 10 protesters were killed in clashes with police near the Egyptian Interior Ministry building in Cairo in the early hours of Sunday, RIA Novosti said quoting Al Jazeera.

The protestors’ crowd was trying to storm the building, located in the centre of the Egyptian capital, forcing police … Original source on Gaea Times at : 10 killed as protesters storm Cairo building.

Obstruction of Parliament not undemocratic: Arun Jaitley

RANCHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley has said that obstruction of Parliament is not undemocratic.

“Parliament’s job is to conduct discussions. But many a times Parliament is used to ignore issues and in such situations obstruction of Parliament is in the favour of Democracy. Therefore, Parliamentary obstruction is not undemocratic,” Jaitley, here …. Source article  : Obstruction of Parliament not undemocratic: Arun Jaitley.

Is India-Pakistan back channel still working? (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri, Pakistan’s foreign minister during the five years when the two countries came closest to a settlement of its outstanding disputes, particularly on Jammu and Kashmir, surprised a packed audience at Sapru House last week when he said the backchannel talks between Indian and Pakistani interlocutors had almost produced a …. Source  : Is India-Pakistan back channel still working? (Capital Buzz).

Nation pays homage to Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs’ Day

NEW DELHI – India Sunday paid homage to the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi with prayer meetings and floral tributes on his 63rd death anniversary observed as Martyrs’ Day.

It was on Jan 30, 1948 that Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated here.
The day commenced with 2-minute’s silence at 11 a.m., followed by prayer meetings … Read more >>>.

Egypt Crisis Reaches A Crescendo

CAIRO, EGYPT (GaeaTimes.com)- The political crisis in Egypt is reaching a new level as it seems from the development. The effort of the Hosni Mubarak government to thwart the protesters from communicating by blacking out web services and mobile telephony has not succeeded much. The army has been deployed in many sensitive areas … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Egypt Crisis Reaches A Crescendo.

Obama appeals against violence in Egypt

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has reiterated his appeal to the protesters on Egyptian streets to restrain from violence in the mass protests being staged to demand stepping down of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.

“He reiterated our focus on opposing violence and calling for restraint, supporting universal rights, and supporting concrete steps that … Read more >>.

Jordanians stage protest to support Egyptians

AMMAN – A number of Jordanian activists staged protests in front of the Egyptian embassy in Amman to express their support for the Egyptians who have taken to the streets demanding the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak since the last few days.

Dozens of demonstrators Saturday, including trade unionists, Islamists and members of political parties, …. Original source  : Jordanians stage protest to support Egyptians.

Irish Prime Minister Cowen to dissolve parliament Tuesday

DUBLIN – The Irish Senate has passed a finance legislation that enacts six billion euros ($8.2 bn) in tax hikes and budget cutbacks, agreed as part of December’s EU-IMF bailout for Ireland. This enables Prime Minister Brian Cowen to dissolve parliament Tuesday.

The passage of the finance measure Saturday after two days of Senate debate …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama committed ‘true global, strategic partnership’ with India

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has reaffirmed his commitment to building a “true global, strategic partnership” with India at a meeting with National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon.

Obama dropped in as Menon was meeting with his American counterpart Tom Donilon at the White House Friday and stayed on for about 15 minutes reflecting his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama committed ‘true global, strategic partnership’ with India.

Firing cabinet not enough, Mubarak must go: El Baradie

CAIRO – Protests in Egypt continued unabated as the pro-democracy leader Mohamed El Baradie stuck on the demand of President Hosni Mubarak’s resignation and said the appointment of a new vice president and a prime minister was not enough.

The comment by the Nobel laureate came after Mubarak Saturday swore in intelligence chief Omar Suleiman … Original article on : Firing cabinet not enough, Mubarak must go: El Baradie.

Compare CPI-M, Trinamool’s development record: Mamata

COOCH BEHAR/SILIGURI – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Saturday said West Bengal’s ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) should compare what they had done for implementation of railway projects in West Bengal during UPA-I government with what has been done by her party during UPA-II.

“The CPI-M) can only criticise and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Compare CPI-M, Trinamool’s development record: Mamata.

Official delaying file for CBI probe in mafia nexus: Goa minister

PANAJI – Goa Home Minister Ravi Naik Saturday claimed that Chief Secretary Sanjiv Srivastava was sitting on a crucial file recommending a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the state’s police-politician-drug mafia nexus for nearly two months.

Speaking to reporters at a press conference here, Naik said that the home ministry had cleared … Read more : Official delaying file for CBI probe in mafia nexus: Goa minister.

Decks cleared for panchayat polls in Kashmir: Minister

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government Saturday said decks have been cleared for holding panchayat elections in the state.

The announcement came after a meeting of the cabinet sub-committee, headed by Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather, tasked to sort out the issue of holding panchayat polls in the state.
“The committee held a detailed …. Read the original article  : Decks cleared for panchayat polls in Kashmir: Minister.

Accept JPC demand for smooth parliament session: Jaitley

RANCHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley Saturday said the union government should accept the demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam for the smooth running of parliament’s budget session beginning Feb 21.

“The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government should begin the exercise to create an …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Accept JPC demand for smooth parliament session: Jaitley.

UPA is looting the country: Gadkari

CHENNAI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari Saturday said the 2G spectrum scam will bring down the United Progressive Alliance government and added that former communications minister A. Raja could not have done the “misdeed” on his own.

He also accused the Congress and the DMK government in Tamil Nadu of looting the … Read : UPA is looting the country: Gadkari.

CPI-M has done nothing for north Bengal: Mamata

COOCH BEHAR/SILIGURI – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Saturday said the CPI-M should compare what they had done for implementation of railway projects in West Bengal during UPA-I with what has been done by her party during UPA-II.

The CPI-M can only criticise and sabotage railway projects. Before criticising our projects, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : CPI-M has done nothing for north Bengal: Mamata.

Thatcher held secret meetings with Indian guru

LONDON – Former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher met controversial Indian guru Chandraswami at the House of Commons in 1975, after he was recommended to her by then deputy high commissioner to Britain, Natwar Singh.

Details of the meetings have been revealed by Singh, who was present when they took place, according to the Daily … Read more >>.

Egypt Crisis Deepens

CAIRO, EGYPT (GaeaTimes.com)- Mohamed ElBaradei, one of the leading opposition leaders in the trouble-torn Egypt issued his support to the anti-government protests that have been ongoing in parts of the country for the past few days and called for the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak amidst the crisis. The leading opposition leader talked to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt Crisis Deepens.

Karunanidhi meets Prime Minister, discusses fishermen killings

NEW DELHI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi met the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, here on Monday and is understood to have raised the issue of Indian fishermen being killed allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy.

The Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK) chief, who arrived here on Sunday [..] Read the original article: here.

Fishermen’s killing: Sri Lanka wants more information

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka Monday requested India to provide additional information on the killing of two Indian fishermen allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy even as the two countries agreed to convene a joint meeting of a panel to enhance cooperation in the field of fisheries.

India’s Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao called on President … Read more >>>.

Draft Lokpal bill disappoints, parties cagey

NEW DELHI – The draft Lokpal Bill 2010 is meant to create the institution of an ombdusman that will tackle political corruption, but civil society groups say it will be a toothless body with only recommendatory powers and will also not cover guilty bureaucrats.

The draft Lokpal Bill 2010, which has been circulated to various …. Read the original article  : Draft Lokpal bill disappoints, parties cagey.

Pak situation can’t be compared with events in Egypt, Tunisia: Gilani

MULTAN – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that the current situation in Egypt or Tunisia cannot be compared with that of Pakistan, as the country’s “institutions are working and democracy is functional”.

“Pakistan’s economy is under pressure, not in crisis. Our foreign exchange reserves are at …. Read the original article  : here.

Egypt uprising echoes Philippines 25 years ago (Comment)

President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt is facing the toughest challenge to his 30-year rule but he is not the only dictator in the world not to read the signals on his radar. His own unarmed people have risen in revolt against him but that is not the way he sees it.

What is happening in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Egypt uprising echoes Philippines 25 years ago (Comment).

Egyptian protesters plan march of million people

CAIRO – The massive uprising to oust Egyptian president of 30 years Hosni Mubarak were scaled up Monday with protesters, who have defied curfew and remain unfazed despite fighter jets and tanks, planning to hold a march of over a million people through the streets of Cairo Tuesday.

The plan is to have more than … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egyptian protesters plan march of million people.

China sends planes to Egypt for stranded nationals

BEIJING – China sent two planes to Egypt to bring back Chinese citizens stranded in Egypt Monday.

The two planes left Beijing Monday noon, according to sources with the Chinese foreign ministry.
“The Chinese government attaches great importance to the security of Chinese citizens in Egypt, and has coordinated with relevant airlines to increase flights … Original source on Gaea Times at : China sends planes to Egypt for stranded nationals.

Egypt Crisis: 300 Indian Tourists Return

CAIRO, EGYPT (GaeaTimes.com)- Amidst the political turmoil in extensive parts of Egypt with anti-government protests throwing normal life completely out of gear, government from nations across the world are doing their best to evacuate citizens from the trouble-torn country. As the crisis in Egypt further deepens without showing much sign of slowing down, governments …. Read the original article  : Egypt Crisis: 300 Indian Tourists Return.

You can’t vote wearing your T-shirt, Malaysian Indian told

LABIS – Malaysian Indian voter V. Kumaran had to choose between his T-shirt and his vote in a by-election to parliament held Sunday.

The 29-year-old ethnic Indian arrived at the Kampung Paya Merah polling centre here in a blue T-shirt with the words “BN” emblazoned on its pocket. BN stands for Barisan Nasional, the ruling …. Source  : You can’t vote wearing your T-shirt, Malaysian Indian told.

Berlusconi planned infamous ‘bunga bunga’ party hours before probe

LONDON – A series of leaked SMS texts have shown that Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was planning to host one of his infamous ‘bunga bunga’ parties just hours before prosecutors revealed he was under investigation.

Berlusconi, 74, was referred to by his nickname “Papi” in the texts between Anglo-Italian regional councillor Nicole Minetti, 25, who … Read more »».

New Zealand joins calls for regime change in Egypt

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Monday joined international calls for Egypt President Hosni Mubarak to respect his people’s demands for a change in the country’s regime.

“There is obviously a strong wish among the Egyptian people for a more broadly based government and for greater freedoms and improved economic conditions, and this desire needs to be … Read : New Zealand joins calls for regime change in Egypt.

ElBaradei – a Nobel laureate in eye of Egypt’s political storm

LONDON – Nobel Peace Prize winner Mohamed ElBaradei, who has emerged a leading opposition figure in the political upheaval sweeping through Egypt, has rich experience in working at the UN and distinguished himself as the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

ElBaradei has now returned to Egypt to spearhead the protesters demanding an …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ElBaradei – a Nobel laureate in eye of Egypt’s political storm.

Egypt changes will impact Pakistan, says Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – The consequences of the changes in Egypt will “inevitably impact us”, a Pakistani daily said Monday, adding this will serve as a “stark lesson as to what happens when rulers fail to hear the voices and heed the wishes of those they rule”.

An editorial in the News International said the events … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egypt changes will impact Pakistan, says Pakistani daily.

Karunanidhi to discuss seat-sharing with PM, Sonia

NEW DELHI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK) chief M Karunanidhi will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi to discuss seat-sharing for the upcoming elections in the state

Karunanidhi, who arrived here on Sunday, said he will meet Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi to discuss the seat-sharing arrangement …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Karunanidhi to discuss seat-sharing with PM, Sonia.

Egypt situation being monitored: Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Islamabad is “watching what is happening” in Egypt and will evacuate its citizens if the situation worsens, authorities said.

Express Tribune reported Monday that the Foreign Office did not make it clear as to when it plans to bring back around 150 Pakistani families.
Anti-government protests in Egypt Monday entered the seventh …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Egypt situation being monitored: Pakistan.

Spanish PM expresses support for democracy in Arab world

Zaragoza (Spain), Jan 31 (IANS/EFE) Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero expressed hope that the Arab countries where there have been anti-government protests in recent weeks will achieve “democratic reforms, freedom, progress and social justice”, but always through “peaceful changes.”

Zapatero Sunday remarked on the “significant moments” that several Arab countries are going through, …. Read the original article  : here.

Chidambaram to visit mountainous areas near Jammu

JAMMU – Union Home Minister P. Chidamabaram would be visiting Kishtwar, a mountainous district northeast of Jammu, during his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir beginning Thursday to review the security situation and take stock of the political developments.

Chidambaram would be interacting with district level officers of Kishtwar district, tucked in the Himalayas about … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chidambaram to visit mountainous areas near Jammu.

Egypt protesters defy curfew; Baradei says no going back

CAIRO – Anti-government demonstrators defied a curfew to protest Monday morning in Egypt’s capital, demanding President Hosny Mubarak step down from office after three decades of rule.

Leading opposition activist Mohammed ElBaradei had earlier Sunday promised tens of thousands of protesters that change would come to their country, as they staged a sixth day of …. Read the original article  : here.

Obama speaks with foreign leaders on Egypt situation

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has spoken with leaders from Turkey, Israel, Saudi Arabia and Britain on the present situation in Egypt, the White House said.

Obama spoke to Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Saudi King Abdullah Saturday, and to British Prime Minister David Cameron Sunday, Xinhua … Read more : Obama speaks with foreign leaders on Egypt situation.