In Phases, Govt Unlocks Lockdown in Kulgam Gunfight Restrictions in Containment Zones to Continue Till June 30

9thyear of publication Srinagar Observer Delhi Govt Issues Home Isolation Norms As DGP Sanctions Retirement Gift In Virat Kohli only cricketer in Forbes’ Covid-19 Positive Cases Cross 17,000 In Capital Favour Of 106 Police Personnel top 100 highest-paid athletes of 2020 As a token of appreciation for their services in various capacities to the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday suggested a slew of department, the Director General of Police Shri Dilbag Singh sanctioned India captain Virat Kohli remained the only cricketer to be included in the measures for home isolation of coronavirus positive patients in an retirement gift of rupees 79,50,000 in favour of 106 Police personnel list of top 100 highest-paid athletes of 2020 put forward by Forbes attempt to curb the rapid spread of the Covid-19 outbreak in the magazine. The right-handed batsman is also the only Indian athlete to be city. The national capital recorded 1,106 fresh coronavirus cases of J&K Police who are retiring from service tomorrow after attaining featured in the list. According to Forbes, Kohli had an estimated total in the last 24 hours, taking the total tally in Delhi to over 17,000. superannuation or taking voluntary retirement. | Page 05 earnings of $26 million ($24m from endorsements and $2m from Emphasising that coronavirus positive ...| Page 07 salary/winnings). He made a jump of over 30 places ...| Page 08

Sunday, 31 May, 2020 08, Shawwal 1441 Hijri Published from Srinagar RNI No:JKENG/2012/43267 Vol:9 Issue No: 126 Pages:8 Rs.5.00 epaper: www.srinagarobserver.com Two Militants Killed In Phases, Govt Unlocks Lockdown In Kulgam Gunfight Restrictions In Containment Zones To Continue Till June 30

SO News Desk have an economic focus. “MHA order of March 24, Srinagar: As the lock- 2020 imposed a strict lockdown continued for nearly down throughout the country. three months across the Only essential activities were country, the Government of permitted. All other activi- India on Saturday decided ties were prohibited. Subse- to unlock the lockdown in quently, in a graded manner phases while stating that the and keeping the overarching restrictions in containment objective of containing the zones to prevent the deadly spread of COVID-19 in view, virus from spreading will the lockdown measures have continue till June 30. been relaxed,” the order fur- The government extended ther reads. COVID-19 lockdown till June The order stated that the Umaisar Gull forces approached towards sus- 30th while issuing new guide- new guidelines have been pected spot, hiding militants fired lines for lockdown 5-0 with issued today based on exten- Kulgam: Two militants were upon forces, which was retaliated phased re-opening of all activ- sive consultations held with killed in an encounter that broke triggering an encounter. ities outside the containment States and UTs. out between government forces and Officials said that the militants zones across the country. As per the new guidelines all militants at Wanpora village in Qa- were repeatedly offered to lay weap- As per the new guidelines activities that were prohibited imoh area of South Kashmir's Kul- ons and come out of the house without issued by Ministry of Home will be phased re-opening of all down guidelines. will come into effect from earlier will be opened up in ar- gam district on Saturday morning. wearing any clothes and to surrender Affairs, the lockdown 5.0 will activities outside containment Ministry of Home Affairs June 1, 2020 and will be effec- eas outside containment zones An official told a local news before the forces, but the “offer was come into effect from June Zones while strict enforcement (MHA) issued new guidelines tive till June 30, 2020,” reads in a phased manner, with the gathering agency that two mili- rejected every time and instead mili- 01, 2020 and will remain in of lockdown will have to be ob- today, for phased re-opening the order. As per the new stipulation of following Stan- tants were killed in exchange of tants fired at the forces.” force till June 30, 2020. served in containment zones of areas outside the Contain- guidelines the current phase dard Operating Procedures fire whose identification is being Mobile internet has been also sus- As per the guidelines there during phase 1 of the new lock- ment Zones. The guidelines of re-opening, Unlock 1 will (SOPs), to be | More on P2 ascertained, while as search oper- pended in Shopian for precaution- ation is under way in the area. ary measures. Meanwhile, a police Earlier, an official said that spokesman said that during the inter- cordon and search operation was vening night of 29/30 May 2020, on a Modi Govt anniversary launched in the area by joint team specific input generated by Kulgam of forces including 1 RR, CRPF and Police, a cordon & search operation 177 COVID Cases Detected in JK, Toll 2341 Kulgam Police on specific inputs was launched jointly by Kulgam Po- Trashing Art 370, 35 A about the presence of militants lice, 01 RR and CRPF 18 Bn at Wan- ‘908 Patients Recover So Far, Smokers At Higher Risk Of Virus’ in the area on Friday evening. He pora Khudwani area of South Kash- Top Achievements: MHA said that on Saturday morning as mir’s Kulgam district. | More on P2 SO News Desk recovered and 28 have died; Agencies taken on Women safety, Disaster 03 in Jammu division and 25 management etc. Jammu: The Jammu and in Kashmir division. Talks At Military, Diplomatic New Delhi: On the completion The ministry has termed the Kashmir Union Territo- The Bulletin further of one year of the second term of 'abrogation of Article 370 and ry witnessed no respite said that out of 164581 Levels On To Resolve the Prime Minister Narendra 35A' as a historic step. from the COVID-19 as test results available, Modi led government, Union "Historic step to remove Arti- the number continue to 162240 samples have Ladakh Standoff: Rajnath Home Ministry on Saturday is- cle 370 and 35A of Constitution of mount here with officials been tested as negative Agencies sued a list of its achievements India, brought JK and Ladakh at informing that 177 cases till May 30, 2020. which includes Abrogation of par with other States and UTs, All were detected in the newly Additionally, till date New Delhi: As Indian and Chi- Article 370 and 35A from Jam- provisions of Constitution of In- carved UT on Saturday. 165225 travellers and nese troops remain engaged in mu and Kashmir, the opening of dia, without any modifications or The government in- persons in contact with a tense border standoff, Defence Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, strict exceptions, to now apply to JK and formed that 177 new positive suspected cases have been Minister Rajnath Singh on Satur- action on militancy and Insur- Ladakh," Home Ministry stated. cases of novel Coronavirus enlisted for surveillance day asserted that the government gency, focus on North-east, steps "The Jammu and | More on P2 (COVID-19), 52 from Jammu which included 36538 per- will not allow India's pride to be division and 125 from Kash- from various hospitals, 16 sons in home quarantine in- hurt under any circumstances mir division, have been re- from Jammu Division and cluding facilities operated by even as he said bilateral talks Aug 5 decision due to PM's willpower: Nadda ported today thus taking the 17 from Kashmir Division. government, 56 in Hospital were on at military and diplomat- haratiya Janata Party’s (BJP) National President JP Nadda on total number of positive cases According to the daily Quarantine, 1405 in hospital ic levels to resolve the row. Saturday said that the abolition of Article 370 and 35A of the in Jammu and Kashmir to 2341. Media Bulletin on novel isolation and 43514 under Singh also said that he con- was "ready, willing and able to B Constitution last year were the result of Prime Minister Naren- Moreover, 33 more Coronavirus (Covid-19), out home surveillance. Besides, veyed to US Defence Secretary mediate" between the two coun- dra Modis political willpower, adding that many important decisions COVID-19 patients have of 2341 positive cases, 1405 83684 persons have complet- Mark T Esper during a telephon- tries. He reiterated the offer on were taken in the first year of the NDA government | More on P2 recovered and discharged are Active Positive, 908 have ed their | More on P2 ic conversation on Friday that Thursday as well. India and China have an existing The Ministry of External Af- It Was A Year Of Disappointment: Cong mechanisms to resolve "prob- fairs indirectly rejected the offer Not disclosing symptoms could put life of individuals lems" through talks at diplomat- two days ago, but Singh became he Congress on Friday described the first year of the Modi Gov- and their families at risk. In case of symptoms like fever, cough and ic and military levels. the first central minister to ernment as a “year of disappointment, disastrous manage- In the midst of the flare-ups speak on India's position on the T ment and diabolical pain”. Congress leader K C Venugopal said difficulty in breathing report early. Do not fear, call COVID-19 helpline between Indian and Chinese issue with clarity. the six years of the Modi dispensation have seen fraying of bonds of numbers and seek medical advice.’ empathy, fraternity and brotherhood with increase | More on P2 armies, US President Donald "I spoke to the US Defence Sec- Trump on Wednesday said he retary yesterday. | More on P2

Burglars loot Efforts Being Made To Increase Militant Mela Kheerbhawani Order Modified, Rs 2 lakh cash Actions In Hinterland: Security Agencies COVID Spoils Much Awaited UT Capitals to Have from Gurdwara at Re-union of KPs, Muslims CAT Benches Jawahar Nagar BS Raju and Director General of Agencies Police Jammu & Kashmir, Dil- Sheikh Danish bag Singh co-chaired a meeting New Delhi: The Benches of of the Core Group consisting of Central Administrative Tribunal Srinagar: Burglars struck top officials of Civil Administra- (CAT), that adjudicates Central gov- into Kalvi Dhar Gurudwara tion, Intelligence Agencies and ernment employees’ service mat- in Jawahar Nagar area of Sri- Security Forces at Srinagar. ters, will function from Jammu and nagar and decamped with cash The meeting was to review Srinagar, the Personnel Ministry from the donation box and the security situation and en- has said, modifying its earlier or- some valuables. Officials told sure readiness to meet antic- der that had created confusion and a local news gathering agency ipated security challenges, a resentment among many over the that police was informed about statement issued here reads. jurisdiction of tribunals. the incident after authorities at The statement said that the The move comes | More on P2 Gurdwara found the lock at the core group focussed on the entrance broken. need for high level of synergy Soon after being informed, a amongst all the agencies in ad- Govt Suspends police team from Rajbagh Police dressing the security concerns Raja Syed Ganderbal emotionally heart Station along with FSL team of Kashmir. “Intelligence inputs as they wait throughout the PO Arrested with reached the spot, officials said. indicate that Pakistan had in- Tulmulla: The ongoing year to celebrate the Mela to Contraband Locals said that it was found tensified its efforts at increas- COVID-19 pandemic in Jam- revive the age old communal that the cash around Rs two ing infiltration and Ceasefire mu and Kashmir like other bond and harmony between Agencies lakh kept in a cash box used for Violations across the Line of parts of the country Saturday KP’s and Muslims. donations was missing. Mean- at increasing infiltration and Control. There is also an effort cast a shadow on the much Every year, Shanti Devi Srinagar: Government has while, Jammu and Kashmir po- Core Group Meets To Ceasefire Violations across the to calibrate increase in militant awaited re-union of Kashmiri would reach the temple ear- suspended a deputy prosecution lice in a statement issued here Line of Control. “There is also actions in the hinterland. Pa- Pandits and the Muslims at ly in the morning on the eve officer (prosecuting officer), said that they have obtained the Strategise Security an effort to calibrate increase in kistan and its proxies are also Mela Kheerbhawani in Tulmu- of Mela Kheerbhawani as more than three weeks after his CCTV footage and are tracking SO News Desk militant actions in the hinter- active on social media to launch la area of Central’s Kashmir’s she would sit among dozens arrest by police after he was al- down the suspects behind bur- land,” they said. disinformation campaign in Ganderbal district as doors of of Kashmiri Pandit women legedly found to be in possession glary at a gurdwara in Jawahar Srinagar: The security agen- In the backdrop of the prevail- J&K,” it added. Temple were shut and religious to sing traditional songs and of contraband in Rajouri district. Nagar area of the city. “In the in- cies Saturday said that intelli- ing situation in Jammu & Kash- The core group discussed the gatherings disallowed. religious hymns to mark the According to an order by JK tervening night of 29/30 -05-20, gence inputs indicate that Pa- mir, the General Officer Com- plans to ensure a robust counter The development left hun- occasion. But today, closure of Home Department, a copy of burglars | More on P2 kistan had intensified its efforts manding, Chinar Corps, Lt Gen infiltration grid | More on P2 dreds of KPs and Muslims of main entry gate | More on P2 which lies with a | More on P2 SRINAGAR 02 OBSERVER Srinagar / SundAY / 31 MaY i 2020 News

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contests it. the first casualty is the democracy. In fact, de- the body to use it properly will put patients at tual aura is missing. Where are our muslim In Phases, Govt Both sides have been asserting that pending mocracy is under attack by the Modi govern- higher risk of serious lung conditions such as brothers and sisters, who would offer us water prescribed by the Health Ministry: the final resolution of the boundary issue, it is ment which got elected through this democrat- pneumonia. and refreshments on this day,” Omkar Nath, The order states that religious places and necessary to maintain peace and tranquillity ic process,” he said. The people are further informed that, the after paying obeisance at the main entry of places of worship for public, hotels, restaurants in the border areas. (Agencies) The Congress leader said subjugation of best way to protect themselves from COVID-19 Temple, told a local news gathering agency. and other hospitality services and shopping Parliament has become the norm. is by maintaining physical distance of at least Ghulam Ahmed, a local resident of Tulmula malls will be permitted to open from June 8, 2020 Trashing Art “Sadly and tragically, Indian Parliament 2 metre from others, frequently cleaning said that there were clear directions from the during phase 1 of this lockdown. Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act, 2019, Jam- has been sidestepped under the garb and guise hands with an alcohol based hand sanitizer or administration that no stall should be set up “Health Ministry will issue SOPs for the mu and Kashmir reorganised into Union Ter- of COVID-19 pandemic.” washing them with soap and water and follow- in view of the Covid and that there was a pri- above activities, in consultation with the ritory of Jammu and Kashmir with the legisla- He said standing committees and select com- ing good respiratory etiquettes and hygiene. or information that no large gathering will be Central Ministries/ Departments concerned ture, and Union Territory of Ladakh without mittees have been side-lined and given a go-by. As a measure for social distancing in public allowed at the temple this year. “Setting up a and other stakeholders, for ensuring so- Legislature, formally came into force on 31st Even grassroots democracy of panchayats, places and workplaces wearing a face cover is stall had been just an excuse as I would meet cial distancing and to contain the spread of October 2019,” it stated as some of its major zila parishads and municipal councils and cor- compulsory. my childhood friend Ravji on this day. COVID-19.” achievements. porations have been virtually non-functional The bulletin again explained that early de- My heart is crying and I want to cry loud- In Phase II, schools, colleges, educational/ MHA has also said that the Ministry suc- with the bureaucracy ruling the roost and the tection of COVID-19 can prevent the spread of ly as the pandemic didn’t allow my friend to training/ coaching institutions etc. will be cessfully organised Amarnath Yatra 2019 and entire country is being ruled directly by the disease so we need to be responsible for the pay obeisance at the temple this year,” he said opened after consultations with States and 3,42,883 Yatris had safe and secure Darshan, central government. well-being of ourselves and everyone around amid sobs. “I greeted him over phone and both UTs. higher by nearly 20 per cent, as compared to “This can be fatal for any democracy and us. “Not disclosing symptoms could put life of of us broke down. Covid played spoilsport in State Governments/ UT administrations have 2018. more so for Indian democracy. The Congress individuals and their families at risk. In case our meeting. Hope this disease gets over soon.” also been advised to hold consultations at the in- Another achievement that the government and 22 political parties have demanded that a of symptoms like fever, cough and difficul- Chuni Lal Bhat, who heads Hindu Welfare stitution level with parents and other stakehold- has highlighted is the opening of Kartarpur virtual session of Indian Parliament should be ty in breathing report early. Do not fear, call Society, who would lead the hawan at the tem- ers and based on the feedback, a decision on the Corridor. called forthwith and all standing committees COVID-19 helpline numbers and seek medical ple every year, said that it was really unfortu- re-opening of these institutions will be taken in “Union Cabinet passed a resolution on 22nd and select committees of Parliament consti- advice”. nate that Kheerbhawani mela wasn’t celebrat- the month of July. “MoHFW will prepare SOP November 2018 to celebrate the historic occa- tuted for oversight on government should be Advisory has further exhorted upon the ed this year. for these institutions.” sion of 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak activated without delay and the democratic people not to step out of home, unless abso- “The reason was genuine but we feel deeply Only a limited number of activities will re- in a grand and befitting manner, throughout process set in motion,” he said. lutely necessary. “If you have to move out for hurt and saddened over the development. Our main prohibited throughout the country. These the country and across the globe. India signed He also said that justice has been denied to unavoidable reasons, ensure that you wear a hearts would purify at the temple as would activities include International air travel of pas- the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor Agreement with millions of people in the country as the subor- mask and practice social distancing, personal meet our relations after a long gap and also the sengers, operation of Metro Rail, cinema halls, Pakistan on 24th October 2019. dinate judiciary has been non-functional for hygiene and frequent handwashing with soap aura where muslims would prepare refresh- gymnasiums, swimming pools, entertainment Indian pilgrims of all faiths to undertake the first time in India’s history for almost 60 and water.” ments and facilitate our religious rituals is parks, theatres, bars and auditoriums, assembly year-round Visa-free travel to Gurudwara days now. In case of any emergency people can avail smoothing that was quite amazing,” he said, halls and similar places and social/ political/ Kartarpur Sahib through Kartarpur Sahib Venugopal said at the start of the seventh free ambulance services 24x7 at their door- adding that “entire KP community is in shock sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/reli- Corridor - a long-standing demand of followers year, India stands at a crossroads with its cit- steps by calling on toll-free number 108 while over cancellation of religious rituals at the gious functions/ and other large congregations. of Guru Nanak Dev Ji,” MHA stated. izens exhausted by the weight of this “govern- as pregnant women and sick infants can avail temple this year due to COVID.” “Dates for their opening will be decided based Similarly, Amendments in the NIA Act and ment’s sins, ineptitude and callous insensitiv- free ambulance services by dialling toll-free Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gan- on assessment of the situation during phase III of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment ity to the widespread suffering”. number 102. derbal Muhammad Khalil Poswal said that this lockdown.” Act have been listed in the achievement of the “Over the last six years, India witnessed a People can also call on toll-free national J&K Dharmath trust had conveyed them that As per the guidelines, lockdown shall con- Union Home ministry under “Strict Action on steady increase in the politics of distraction helpline number 1075; J&K COVID-19 Helpline there would be large gathering. tinue to be implemented strictly in the con- militancy and insurgency.” and false noise, to the point that it has become Numbers 0191- 2549676 (UT level Cell), 0191- “We ensured that there is no gathering this tainment zones. “These will be demarcated According to MHA “Disaster management” a defining mainstay of Modi Government’s 2520982, 0191-2674444, 0191-2674115 (For Jam- time. Main thing was Pooja which was held by the State/ UT Governments, after taking is another of its key achievement. While the administrative style. While it served the polit- mu Division), 0194-2440283 & 0194-2430581 (For with the attendance of few people. For the into consideration the guidelines issued by MHA has also played an important role in ical interests of the BJP, it came at an unprece- Kashmir Division) for support, guidance, and general public and devotees it was arranged the Health Ministry. Within the containment dealing with COVID-19, handling Cyclones dented economic and social cost to the nation,” response to health-related queries on Novel through social media platform,” he said and zones, strict perimeter control shall be main- like Vayu, Maha, Bulbul and Amphan. he said. Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). greeted KP community across the globe on the tained and only essential activities allowed.” “Successful coordination of assistance to “Prime Minister Modi would do well to re- Public is advised to strictly follow the advi- occasion. (KNO) The order also states that the use of Aarogya States and execution of Rescue and Rehabili- member that extraordinary promises beget sories issued by the government from time to Setu mobile application should be encouraged tation and dissemination of timely informa- extraordinary expectations. But as we shall time and rely only on the information released Order Modified, by various authorities with a view to ensure tion to national and regional media by MHA, see, even the most ordinary and mundane ex- by the government through the daily media nearly a month after the Ministry in its safety. (KNO) sensitization workshop for nodal officers pectations of keeping a country running were bulletin to print and electronic media. April 29 order had extended the CAT’s Chan- dealing with Disaster Management in all De- beyond the capabilities of this Government People are also advised to refrain from digarh Bench’s jurisdiction to the States of Two Militants partments/ Ministries of Central Government which promised ‘so much’ and delivered ‘so spreading rumours and pay no heed to them Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab and “During the search operation, the hiding held by MHA,” MHA stated. very little’,” Surjewala said. at the same time. Union Territories of Chandigarh, Jammu and militants fired on the joint search party. The Regarding the welfare of Paramilitary per- Modi and his cabinet members had taken Kashmir, and Ladakh. fire was retaliated leading to an encounter,” sonnel, Home Ministry has stated that “in- oath on this day last year for a second term in Burglars loot This order had created resentment and the spokesman said. creasing Age of retirement of CAPFs person- office. (Agencies) have broken into Gurdwara Jawahar Nagar confusion among many employees of the new- “In the ensuing encounter, two militants nel to 60 years, ensuring uniformity in age of and decamped with some cash after making ly created Union Territories of Jammu and were killed and their bodies were retrieved retirement for Central Armed Police Forces 177 COVID Cases their way into Gurudwara through a window. Kashmir, and Ladakh. Following which, the from the site of encounter. The identification (CAPFs) personnel and implementation of Or- surveillance period. They have broken open a wooden safe in the Central government had on May 1 clarified and affiliation of the killed militants is being ganized Group ‘A’ Services Status to Officers Providing district-wise breakup, the Bulle- Gurdwara and looted some cash,” said a police that neither the petitioner nor the lawyer need ascertained.” The spokesman said that incrim- of CAPFs” were accomplished in one year. tin said that Bandipora has 146 positive cas- spokesman. to go to Chandigarh for filling petition or ap- inating material including arms & ammuni- (Agencies) es (including 01 case reported today) with 11 Police spokesman said the main Curren- pearing before the tribunal related to service tion were recovered from the site of encounter. Active Positive, 134 recovered (including 02 cy Vault (Iron Safe) could not be opened by matters of employees. “All the recovered materials have been taken Aug 5 decision due cases recovered today), 01 death; Srinagar has the burglars and is intact. “One mahant and “The term Chandigarh circuit is being mis- into case records for further investigation and in its second term. 272 positive cases (including 26 cases reported a watcher were stationed at the gurdwara interpreted to mean that the petitioner/lawyer to probe their complicity in other cases. In this He said that this work of abolition of Arti- today) with 134 Active Positive, 131 recovered during the night. In this regard a case FIR No would have to go to Chandigarh, which is not connection, a case under FIR number 30/2020 cles was done by Union Home Minister Amit (including 03 cases recovered today), 07 deaths; 42 of 2020 stands registered in PS Rajbagh,” so. All service matters of Central government under relevant sections of law stands registered Shah. The abolition of the said Articles had Anantnag district has 314 positive cases (in- said the spokesman. and UT employees of J&K and Ladakh will be in Police Station Qaimoh and investigation has done away with the special status of the state cluding 19 cases reported today), with 187 Ac- SP South Sajad Ahmad-JKPS along with heard and disposed off in CAT Bench in J&K been initiated. People are requested to cooperate of Jammu and Kashmir and special rights of tive Positive, 122 recovered (including 02 cases SDPO Sadder Dr. Azhar Rashid-JKPS and itself,” it had said. with police till the area is completely sanitized its permanent residents. Addressing a press recovered today), 05 deaths; Baramulla has SHO Rajbagh Insp. Sameer Ahmad visited the However, on May 28, the Personnel Min- and cleared of all the explosive materials, if conference on the completion of one year of 217 positive cases (including 40 cases reported spot immediately along with FSL Team and istry came out with a notification that said, any”. (KNO) the Modi government in its second term, the today) with 110 Active Positive, 102 recovered, dog Squad, he added. “The Central government hereby specifies BJP leader was asked if they were confident of 05 deaths; Shopian has 168 positive cases (in- “FSL has been called and evidences like fin- Jammu and Srinagar as the places at which Talks At Military returning to power again in the 2024 elections. cluding 16 cases reported today) with 59 Ac- ger prints and foot prints have been obtained. the Benches of the Central Administrative I told him that we have developed a mech- He said: “We do not do politics all the time. We tive Positive, 108 recovered (including 01 case Further all entry and exit routes to the Gurd- Tribunal shall ordinarily sit for the Union anism already under which any problem be- wish to work for the people all the time. Poli- recovered today) and 01 death; Kupwara has wara are being searched for evidences,” said Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Union tween India and China are resolved through tics is done only during elections. We do not 258 positive cases (including 03 cases reported the spokesman. Territory of Ladakh.” military and diplomatic dialogue,” Singh told work in the government to return to power. today) with 184 Active Positive, 74 recovered; “CCTV footage has been obtained and oth- It removed the Union Territories of Jammu Aaj Tak news channel. We want to move forward in serving our coun- Budgam has 99 positive cases (including 10 er corroborating CCTV footages are being ob- and Kashmir, and Ladakh out of the ambit of He was replying to a question on whether try, our nation.” cases reported today), with 36 Active Positive tained around the area. Suspects in the case Chandigarh Bench. It has now amended its India ruled out any third-party mediation in Nadda said that even as the entire world and 61 recovered cases (including 09 cases re- are being tracked down by the investigating last month’s order by inserting Jammu Bench resolving the border row with China. was under the threat of novel coronavirus, the covered today) and 02 deaths; Ganderbal has team in a very professional manner.” (KNO) and to specifically say that the Bench will have The defence minister said efforts are on to situation in India was much in control by the 32 positive cases (including 01 case reported jurisdiction over the Union Territory of Jam- resolve the border row in eastern Ladakh. way the country had handled the crisis under today) with 08 Active cases and 24 recoveries; Efforts Being mu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. “I want to assure the country that we will the leadership of the Prime Minister. Kulgam has 277 positive cases (including 04 along the Line of Control, counter militant With the creation of new Bench, over 31,000 not allow India’s pride to be hurt under any The BJP leader said that the country was cases reported today), with 250 Active Positive grid in the hinterland and recent successes in matters of the employees of the erstwhile State circumstances. India has been following a moving forward while focusing on self-reli- and 23 recoveries and 04 deaths and Pulwama anti-militancy operations. “The intelligence of Jammu and Kashmir, which were heard by clear policy of maintaining good relationship ance and ‘’swadeshi’’. reported 70 positive cases (including 05 cases inputs indicate efforts by anti-nationals and the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, will now with neighbouring countries and it is not a Nadda said that when the coronavirus lock- reported today) with 58 active positive and 12 Pakistan proxies to calibrate increase in vio- be transferred to the CAT, officials said. new approach; We have been following it for down was imposed in March, India’s daily recovered. lence in the Jammu and Kashmir. Recent suc- The erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir long. At times, situation arises with China. It testing capacity was 10,000 while it was now Similarly, Jammu has 130 positive cases (in- cesses including killing of militant organiza- has been reorganised into two Union Territo- has happened before,” he said. 1.60 lakh. Now, 4.5 lakh PPE kits were getting cluding 02 cases reported today) with 91 active tions leaders and prevention of large scale IED ries — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh — Singh noted that China has also said that it manufactured in India daily apart from 58,000 positive cases and 37 recoveries and 02 deaths; attacks have blunted such efforts,” it added. with effect from October 31, 2019. wants to resolve the border issue through dip- ventilators, he added. (Agencies) Udhampur has 65 positive cases (including 13 The support of the Kashmir people has been The Personnel Ministry’s earlier order had lomatic dialogue. cases reported today) with 39 active positive critical in the success of the security forces. evoked shared reactions from all concerned in “It has been India’s efforts to ensure that the It Was A Year cases, 25 recovered (including 03 cases recov- The core group discussed the need for con- the State. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Justice tension does not escalate. It should be resolved in acts of communal and sectarian violence. ered today) and 01 death; Samba has 41 posi- tinued intelligence based anti-militant opera- Gita Mittal has shot off a letter to Minister of through talks at military and diplomatic lev- Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjew- tive cases (including 07 cases reported today) tions with a humane touch, it said. State for Personnel Jitendra Singh, a move re- els. Negotiations are ongoing between the two ala said that at the end of six years, it appears with 30 Active Positive and 11 recoveries (in- The statement reads that in order to ad- sulting in sharp reaction from CAT chairman countries at the military and diplomatic lev- the Modi government is at war with its people cluding 01 case recovered today); Rajouri has dress the complete eco-system of militant L. Narasimha Reddy. els,” he said. and is inflicting wounds on them, instead of 27 positive cases (including 06 cases reported organisations in Jammu and Kashmir, the The establishment of Benches at various Troops of India and China were engaged in healing them. today) with 22 active positive cases and 05 re- anti- militancy operations are being supported places and to ensure disposal of the cases is the standoff for over three weeks in Pangong “It is inflicting wounds on Mother India,” covered; Kathua has 71 positive cases (includ- by efforts to identify and arrest over ground the responsibility of the tribunal and the high Tso, Galwan Valley, Demchok and Daulat Beg he said. ing 06 cases reported today) with 52 Active workers who sustain the terror organisations. court need not be so apprehensive. Wherever Oldie in eastern Ladakh. “This government is trying to fill the coffers positive and 19 recovered; Kishtwar has 08 The Divisional Commissioner brought out necessary, the guidance and help of the high The trigger for the face-off was China’s stiff of the select rich and is exploiting the poor and positive cases with 07 active positive cases and the focus of the administration to tackle cul- court would certainly be taken, the CAT chair- opposition to India laying a key road in the inflicting pain on them,” Surjewala said. 01 recovered; Ramban has 89 positive cases (in- tivation and trafficking of drugs in the valley, man had said. (Agencies) Finger area around the Pangong Tso Lake be- The Congress also released a set of six cluding 14 cases reported today) with 74 active and also the focussed efforts to address the sides construction of another road connecting “myths” about the Government, highlighting positive and 15 recoveries (including 12 cases COVID 19 challenge facing the nation. Govt Suspends the Darbuk-Shayok-Daulat Beg Oldie road in its failures on various fronts and alleging that recovered today); Reasi has 14 positive cases In the end, the senior commanders ex- local news gathering agency, the suspen- Galwan Valley. democracy is under threat and Parliament (including 01 case recovered today) with 11 ac- pressed satisfaction at the successful handling sion shall be deemed to have been with effect Military sources said China was also laying is being subjugated and side-lined under the tive positive and 03 recovered, Poonch has 38 of the security situation and asked for contin- from May 4, the day he was arrested. a road in the Finger area which is not accept- BJP-led dispensation. active positive cases while Doda has 05 posi- ued efforts to maintain peace in Jammu and “As per the report received from the Direc- able to India. The two leaders said that while the people tive cases (including 03 cases reported today) Kashmir. tor General of Prosecution, J&K, Waseem Ah- The sources said military reinforcements of the country are feeling helpless, the Gov- with 04 active positive case and 01 recovered. mad Qureshi, Assistant Public Prosecutor in including troops, vehicles and artillery guns ernment has turned out to be heartless. On the According to the bulletin, of the total 2341 COVID Spoils the Court of Judicial Magistrate, Ukhral (Pros- were sent to eastern Ladakh by the Indian BJP’s charge of the Congress playing politics positive cases in the UT of J&K 1056 have been left not just Shanti Devi but hundreds of ecuting Officer), while on his way from Rajou- Army to shore up its presence in the areas over the COVID-19 crisis, Venugopal said the reported as travellers and 1285 have been re- other devotees disheartened and emotionally ri on 04 May 2020 was found to be in possession where Chinese soldiers were resorting to ag- opposition party did not indulge in any poli- ported as others. hurt. of 08 grams of contraband, by the Police party gressive posturing. tics and gave suggestions instead. The Bulletin said that the breakup rep- The Kheerbhawani mela—one of important of Rajouri,” the order said. The situation in eastern Ladakh deteriorat- “Being a responsible opposition, it is our resents districts from which the patients have festivals of Kashmiri Pandits, is celebrated on Subsequently, a case (FIR No. 230/2020) ed after around 250 Chinese and Indian sol- duty to raise the problems faced by the com- been traced or are ordinarily residing. Zyestha Ashtami, which fell today, (May 30) this under section 8(a), 21/29 NDPS Act, 1985 was diers were engaged in a violent face-off on the mon people. As opposition, we highlighted the The bulletin has informed the public that year. Every year thousands of Kashmiri Pandits registered in Police Station Rajouri against evening of May 5 which spilled over to the next failures of the Government,” he said. smokers are at higher risk of COVID-19 infec- visit the temple to participle in religious rituals him and he continues to be on judicial re- day before the two sides agreed to “disengage”. Venugopal said the Government “is totally tion, Stop Smoking now;·the act of smoking and to pay obeisance. mand. However, the standoff continued. insensitive” to the plight of migrant labourers means that fingers (and possibly contaminat- Kashmiri Pandits, settled outside J&K would “On account of having remained in Po- The incident in Pangong Tso was followed and farmers and the Congress was only trying ed cigarettes) are in contact with lips which not miss the occasion, and would throng in large lice custody for more than forty eight by a similar incident in north Sikkim on May to highlight the problems and plight of com- increase the possibility of transmission of numbers on this eve to participate in the hawans hours, (he) is required to be placed un- 9. mon people and failures of the Government in virus from hand to mouth. Smokers may also etc. der suspension in terms of the provisions The troops of India and China were engaged resolving them. already have lung disease or reduced lung The festival had been always a glaring exam- of Civil Services (Classification, Control in a 73-day stand-off in Doklam tri-junction in Surjewala also demanded that a virtual ses- capacity which would greatly increase risk ple of Kashmir’s composite culture and commu- and Appeal) Rules, 1956,” the order said, 2017 which even triggered fears of a war be- sion of Parliament be convened immediately of serious illness. Smoking products such as nal harmony as muslim would facilitate pandit adding, “Now, therefore, pending further tween the two nuclear-armed neighbours. to discuss pressing issues and the due process water pipes often involve the sharing of mouth brethren by provide refreshments and by setting up enquiry into (his) conduct, he shall be The India-China border dispute covers the be set in motion for holding of meetings of var- pieces and hoses, which could facilitate the stalls to sell lamps (diyas) milk, coconut, followers deemed to have been placed under sus- 3,488-km-long LAC. China claims Arunachal ious parliamentary committees. transmission of COVID-19. Conditions that and everything used in hawans and Pooja. pension w.e.f. 04.05.2020 i.e. the date since Pradesh as part of southern Tibet while India “When ‘pradhan sevaks’ become autocratic, increase oxygen needs or reduce the ability of “There are no stalls today here. The spiri- when he has been in custody.” (GNS) SRINAGAR NEWS SRINAGAR / SUNDAY / 31 MAY I 2020 OBSERVER 03

Govt Suspends Prosecuting Advisor Khan releases Officer Arrested For LED Glow of Mata Kheer Bhawani Govt evacuates 101,170 on Jyeshtha Ashtami Possessing Contraband

AGENCIES contraband, by the Police stranded JK residents party of Rajouri,” the or- SRINAGAR : Government der said. SO NEWS DESK pur in 20 special trains, so suspended a deputy pros- Subsequently, a case far. ecution officer (prosecut- (FIR No. 230/2020) under JAMMU: The Jammu and As per the official com- ing officer), more than section 8(a), 21/29 NDPS Kashmir Government has muniqué, of 71585 returnees three weeks after his ar- Act, 1985 was registered evacuated about 101,170 JK evacuated through Lakhan- rest by police after he was in Police Station Rajouri residents, stranded in other pur till May 30, 2020 (morn- allegedly found to be in against him and he con- parts of the country due to ing) included 17609 from possession of contraband tinues to be on judicial COVID lockdown, via Punjab; 21786 from Him- in Rajouri district. remand. Lakhanpur and through achal Pardesh, 21 from According to an order “On account of having special trains and buses till Andhra Pardesh, 6766 from by JK Home Department. remained in Police cus- date amid strict observance Delhi, 1383 from Gujrat, 3137 The suspension shall be tody for more than forty of all necessary guidelines from Rajasthan, 4089 from SO NEWS DESK Ashtami. deemed to have been with eight hours, (he) is re- and Standard Operating Haryana, 159 from Chattis- He hoped that the blessings effect from May 4, the day quired to be placed under Procedures. garh, 3517 from Uttarakhand, JAMMU: Advisor to Lieu- of Mata Kheer Bhawani would he was arrested. suspension in terms of the As per the official data Therefore, a total of about 879 stranded passengers have 1068 from Maharashtra, 4545 tenant Governor, Farooq spare the humanity from this “As per the report re- provisions of Civil Ser- received in this regard, the 101,170 J&K residents strand- entered through Lakhanpur from Uttar Pradesh, 64 from Khan today released a spe- pandemic and soon the situ- ceived from the Director vices (Classification, administrations of Jammu ed outside UT have been from May 28 to May 29 morn- Odisha, 267 from Assam and cially designed LED Glow ation would turn normal for General of Prosecution, Control and Appeal) Rules, and Kashmir districts have brought back to the UT by ing while 674 passengers have 1007 from Madhya Pradesh, of Mata Kheer Bhawani in holding the Mela with the J&K, Waseem Ahmad 1956,” the order said, add- received 37 COVID special the Jammu and Kashmir reached today in the 17th 88 from Dehradun, 1328 from Jammu on the occasion of traditional enthusiasm and Qureshi, Assistant Public ing, “Now, therefore, pend- trains at Jammu and Udham- government by 37 COVID Delhi COVID special train Chandigarh, 693 from Te- Jyeshtha Ashtami. fervor. Prosecutor in the Court ing further enquiry into pur railway stations from special trains and a fleet of at Jammu. lengana, 116 from Karna- The LED Glow made by The Advisor also hoped that of Judicial Magistrate, (his) conduct, he shall be different states and UTs, so buses through Lakhanpur So far, 17 trains have taka, 21 from Tamilnadu, 52 Mata Kheer Bhawani ji Wel- the social harmony that Jye- Ukhral (Prosecuting Of- deemed to have been far, with about 29,585 strand- after strictly observing all reached Jammu with a total from Chennai, 324 from fare Society (MKBJYWS) shtha Ashtami festival has ficer), while on his way placed under suspension ed passengers while about necessary preventive mea- of 13,945 stranded passengers Bihar, 164 from West Bengal, contains audio katha (story) nurtured over centuries will from Rajouri on 04 May w.e.f. 04.05.2020 i.e. the 71,585 persons have been sures regarding the Virus. belonging to different dis- 107 from Jharkhand, 3 from of Ragnya Bhawani and 35 get strengthened as society 2020 was found to be in date since when he has evacuated by the government As per the detailed break tricts while 15,640 passen- Nepal and 3271 from other most popular devotional comes together to help each possession of 08 grams of been in custody.(KINS) through Lakhanpur till date. up about the figures, about gers have reached Udham- states and UTs. Kashmiri songs in her praise other during the occasion. and prayer. The glow contains Speaking about the new the story of Ragnya Bha- initiative, Kiran Watal, con- wani which has been written venor of the MKBJYWS said by renowned writer and poet that there is always a need Dr Agnishekhar. to attract young people to our DDC Bandipora convenes Shahid Iqbal holds consultations with The remote-controlled hi- heritage and culture and this tech glow was to be installed is an attempt in that direction. introductory meeting with officers, reviews Trade Organisations at Mata Kheer Bhawani ‘Also, the power of story shrine at Tulmulla as a and music is immense, so Developmental scenario newer attraction but was having it around the holy cancelled due to COVID-19 seat will add to the devo- pandemic. tional atmosphere ,” he However, the Society de- added. Among others pres- cided to release the device ent were Prof Ashok Aima, in Jammu and would be Vice Chancellor, Central subsequently installed at the University of Jammu; Dr Mata abode as soon the con- Agnishekhar, Dr Yudhvir ditions become conducive. Gupta, Dr Gautam Goel, Speaking on the occasion, Pintoo ji, Dr Adarshpal Advisor Khan greeted Kash- Gupta, Kuldip Luthra, Prem SO NEWS DESK ering in revised lockdown about Hotel industry issues mir Pandit community in Sharma, MK Yogi, Rohit Bhat, notification, alternate plan and need for support to the J&K and outside on the aus- Bal Krishan Bhat, Ajay Bhat, SRINAGAR: In continuation for educational system, select industry. Sheikh Farooq of picious occasion of Jyeshtha Aryan Ramesh and BL Dhar. with the ongoing week-long timing for opening of differ- religious tour organisation deliberations and discussions ent markets and designated and president of Restaurant SO NEWS DESK culture and ensure deserving safety and maintain social with stakeholders and trade timing. and Café association called people avail benefits of dif- distancing. organisations, Deputy Com- Mohammad Yaseen Khan, for continuation of lockdown. Lt Governor’s message on “World BANDIPORA: After assum- ferent welfare schemes. Deputy Commissioner also missioner, Srinagar Shahid President, Kashmir Eco- Nasir Khan and Imtiaz ing charge as District Devel- He said he would be taking reviewed the progress on Iqbal Choudhary held detailed nomic Alliance suggested a Ahmed raised several issues No Tobacco Day” opment Commissioner Ban- regular assessments of works several projects of public discussions with Kashmir graded initiation of activities, and put forth suggestions for dipora, Ravinder Kumar held at ground levels and would importance including water Chamber of Commerce and support to FMCG network, sectoral and business support SO NEWS DESK to COVID-19 as tobacco has an introductory meeting with be expecting the most honest supply schemes, roads and Industry, Kashmir Econom- opening of some markets on aimed at economic revival a negative impact on lung district officers of various and dedicated efforts at en- other infrastructure besides ic Alliance, Kashmir Traders alternate days, designated while taking due care of steps JAMMU: Lieutenant Gov- health and may lead to departments and reviewed suring smooth and responsive reviewing the status of works and Manufacturer Federa- timing, notification of social required for covid contain- ernor, Girish Chandra chronic respiratory dis- the performance of all sectors. administration. He exhorted on several languishing proj- tion, Federation of Chambers distancing norms for markets ment. Murmu in a message on eases. At the same time, it Additional Deputy Com- upon the officers to provide ects in the district. of Industry in Kashmir among . He also raised several issues DC Srinagar expressed “World No Tobacco Day”, must be made known that a missioner Bandipora, Zahoor a responsive administration He said certain develop- others. faced by the business and gratitude to trade and busi- which is being observed on very large number of people Ahmad Mir, Assistant Com- to the people, based on the mental works have resumed The discussions were aimed trade organisations. ness organisation for their the theme ‘Protecting youth die every year due to smok- missioner Revenue Reyaz principles of justice so that in the district with priority at finalising strategy for eco- Iqbal Trumboo discussed overwhelming support and from industry manipulation ing related diseases, he Ahmad Beigh, Joint Director visible impact is seen on the given to important projects nomic revival, graded open- the issues faced by transport- contribution in the hour of and preventing them from added. Supporting the World Planning Imtiyaz Ahmad and ground. of public importance. He ing of sectors and markets ers and associated staff. He need. He made a special men- tobacco and nicotine use’ Health Organization's call other senior officers of the With regard to the war urged the officers to expedite in non-containment areas raised the flight of families tion of Hotel association for this year has underlined the to the youth to join the fight district were present on the against COVID19, Ravinder the work on these projects and public involvement and associated with transport their magnanimity to provide high importance of sensitiz- to become a tobacco-free occasion. Kumar hailed the untiring so that projects can be com- participation in COVID con- and sought special bailout luxury hotels for quarantine ing the youth with the req- generation, the Lt Governor Speaking on the occasion efforts of the frontline work- pleted at earliest. tainment strategies. The initiative for them. In wake facilities at nominal rates uisite information they need stressed on strict enforce- Deputy Commissioner Ban- ers that bore fruits as evident DDC Bandipora said much meeting also discussed a host of COVID he highlighted the which has set an example in to recognize the tactics en- ment of all related laws for dipora assured the officers from the decreased number time has been wasted owing of issues faced by traders need for new norms and sub- the country. He also thanked gaged by tobacco and re- discouraging the consump- of the district administration of cases. He said the war has to the lockdown and hence including loan repayments, sequent revised tariff plan the associations for their lated industries to attract tion of cigarettes and other of his complete support in not ended yet and urged the work needs to be expedited manufacturing, transporta- for transport. valuable and concrete sug- younger people towards tobacco products, especial- the endeavors aimed at prompt officers not to lower the guard to compensate the losses. He tion and loss of perishable FCIK President Ashraf Mit gestions. addictive products and ly among the children and execution of works and de- till the chain is broken. He directed them to keep in con- items apart from expiry of put forth a number of sug- ADC Hanief Balkhi moder- stressed on empowering the young people, besides taking velopment of district. said the officers need to be sideration the related health products during lockdown. gestions also sought regular ated the sessions while ADM youth with the knowledge initiatives for spreading DDC directed the district more alert with ease in re- advisories especially main- KCCI head Sheikh Ashiq interactions by senior Gov- Harvinder Singh and Social to repulse these deceitful awareness among the mass- officers to ensure prompt strictions and urged the taining social distancing and sought detailed guidelines ernment functionaries with and Preventive Medicine team manipulations. es about the life threatening public service delivery sys- people to continue to follow using safety gears while for feasts, finalisation of ho- trade and business organisa- headed by Dr Rabbani Tariq Tobacco users are also risks related to smoking and tem, people friendly work advisories for their own working on these projects. tel rent, norms of social gath- tions. Wahid Malik discussed was also present. likely to be more vulnerable tobacco use.

DDC Ganderbal Dr Abid, CEO ERA JTFRP conducts reviews functioning extensive tour of project areas in Reasi of RDD Sector

SO NEWS DESK

GANDERBAL: District Development Com- missioner, Ganderbal, Shafqat Iqbal today chaired a meeting with officers of Rural Development Department and BDC chairpersons of district Ganderbal to review the progress made under the flagship programmes including MGNREGA, 14th FC etc. Among others the meeting was attended by all BDC Chairpersons, CPO Gander- bal, ACD Ganderbal, DPO Ganderbal, BDO’s and other concerned officers/officials. The DDC reviewed Block and Panchayat- wise performance made under various SO NEWS DESK and allied economic activities like cultivation of Rice, schemes and set the timelines for comple- Maize and vegetables and the upgradation of the road tion of all pending works, while directions JAMMU: Further expanding the scope of the develop - will provide them with an improved access to markets for were passed to expedite the pace of devel- mental activities and with a purpose to restore the eco- faster marketing of their perishable agricultural produce opmental works. nomic activity in the remote parts of the Jammu Division in the nearby markets. During the meeting DDC listened to the JTFRP has started work on one more significant road CEO,JKERA/JTFRP was informed by Tarsem Lal, Proj- issues and grievances of the BDC Chair- upgradation project in Jammu. ect Manager, Transport, JKERA,Jammu that the work on persons which emerged due to lockdown, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed, Chief Executive Officer JKERA/ the integrated road package in Reasi District is esti - and passed on spot directions to the con- JTFRP today conducted an extensive tour of Reasi District mated to cost Rs 16.04 crores and the upgradation of the cerned officers for their redressal and for the identification of the locations were work can be road would involve further strengthening of the road impressed upon them to extend full support started on the road up gradation of Anji-Panasa- Devi surface by laying of flexible pavement which will comprise and cooperation by every means so that Mai- Ohli Mandir road in the Reasi District . the 04 layers of 50 mm Bituminous Concrete, 50 mm percentage of progress of work is improved. Dr. Syed Abid during the site inspection of Devi Mai- Ohli Dense Bituminous Macadam, 150 mm Wet Mix Macadam DDC also directed the BDO’s to acceler- Mandir road stretch which forms the part of pilgrimage and Granular sub-base (G-II) 150 mm. He said other ate the pace of Aadhar seeding and complete –tourism circuit gave on spot instructions for the construc- components of the road upgradation include construction the process within 2-days positively. tion of public conveniences at various picturesque view of (41) no. pipe culverts , (05) no Box culverts 2015 metres DDC said a lot of time has been wasted points where pilgrims /tourists take stop over for enjoy- of retaining wall, 2789 meters of breast wall, 7169 meters due to lockdown and hence works need to ing the scenic natural beauty and visiting various temples of lined drain, 800 meters of crash barriers. be expedited to compensate the loss. He enroute namely, Deva Mai Mandir, Ohli Mandir , Kol- Kan- Dr.Abid directed the engineers and contractors to also directed them to keep in consideration doli Mandir and the road was traditionally being used by ensure that the work be completed well within the stipu- the related health advisories especially the pilgrims for visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji Shrine. lated timeline of 15 months to prevent cost overruns on maintaining social distancing and using The upgradtion of the road will provide the pilgrims the project and also directed that all the environmental safety gears while working on the projects. visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine from Akhnoor and and resettlement issues be taken due care of while execut- The DDC also took stock of physical and Poonch Districts with a shorter alternative route and ing work on the project and reiterated his instructions for financial achievements made under MGN- thus give a major boost for the creation of additional adhering to SOPs like social distancing and health and REGA and 14th FC. The DDC stressed on livelihood opportunities for local people in tourism and hygiene measures for prevention against the COVID-19 improving performance and adhering to travel sector. Pandemic. the timeline for completing the target of Anji-Panasa road stretch of the road passes through JTFRP funded by the World Bank is spending Rs 166 achieving 50% expenditure under the key the villages Seela, Panasa, Dassanu, Pabbar, etc were crores on the construction of various road and bridges in schemes. residents are primarily associated with the agriculture Jammu region. SRINAGAR 04 OBSERVER SRINAGAR / SUNDAY / 31 MAY I 2020 EDIT

Moon Debate: Tradition versus Technology

between the two dates. This difference Addressing a news briefing in Is- doing so. of dates led to a further debate between lamabad earlier, Chaudhry said that The Federal Minister for Religious technology and tradition and the issue his ministry wanted to end the conflict Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Noor ul took an almost ugly turn. Fawad Chau- over moon-sighting by relying on tech- Haq Qadri said on Saturday that the de- { dry Minister of Science and Technology nology, adding that he rejected notions cision on Eid would be taken by ulema. for Pakistan, swanked and thrusted use that technology should not be involved In a statement, he said that the gov- of technology and advocated Eid to be in moon-sighting. “Islam is a religion of ernment and people of Pakistan would celebrated on Sunday 24th of May, on knowledge and intellect. Whoever says celebrate Eid according to the decision ZAHOOR AHMAD SHAH the other hand Mufti Muneebur Reh- technology should not be involved in taken by the Ruet-i-Hilal committee. man Chairman Central Ruet-i-Hilal moon-sighting, we reject their perspec- He said “help of science and technology [email protected] Committee advocated to follow sharia tive”. He refuted the perception that the could be taken” but clarified that sharia and let the religious authorities to de- moon needed to be sighted to declare relied on witnesses for moon-sighting. cide. More than technology versus tradi- Eid. “This is not necessary as shown by The debate took a triangular shape tion the debate was between Anna (Ego) teachings of Imam Hanbal and the reli- as the two ministries and the central “A BLOOMING FLOWER” o not fast unless you see the and Aastha (Faith/tradition). Fawad gious scholar Javed Ahmed Ghamidi”. Ruet-i-Hilal committee took different crescent (of Ramadan) and do Chaudry got caught up in insensitivi- Chaudhry said it would be the first time stands. The technology ministry de- not give up fasting till you see ty and declared Eid too early, based on that Muslim countries all over the world clared Eid on Sunday, the religious af- My flower is surrounded by different walls; Dthe crescent (of Shawwal), but his technological basis. His observation would celebrate Eid ul Fitr on the same fairs ministry supported sharia and the if the sky is overcast (if you cannot see (predictions) could have been true but day. central committee relied on witnesses Because the law of land is about fake calls. it), then act on estimation. (Bukhari) declaring too early was out of place, On the other hand the Central Ru- (Sharia & shahada). The religious af- The whole world is going through which led to controversy. et-e-Hilal Committee, dominated by reli- fairs ministry supported Ruet-i-Hilal Being beleaguered, it struggles to fulfil its dreams tough times due to the ongoing covid-19 Chaudry is a ‘seasoned’ politician gious experts, takes decisions on moon committee (ulema) and said the final pandemic. Like other sectors of life, the and has mastered the art of getting into sighting owing to which Ramadan and decision will be taken by the Ruet-i-Hi- Because what is the need of a good sense in the socio-religious sectors have also seen various governments over the years. Eid in Pakistan are celebrated across lal. Fawad criticised Mufti Muneeb for great challenges and issues. Most of the He was made the Information Minister the country. It is pertinent to mention ‘making mockery of government orders. world of narrow beams. socio-religious events like Eid, Shab- to the shock and surprise of many. Af- that the committee insists on sighting Mufti Muneeb deserves the credit e-Qadar and Jummat-ul-Vida are gath- ter months of being in the news for the the moon by telescope. In recent times, for not getting egoistic. He declared his Time is fixed for everything to rise ering oriented and a huge number of wrong reasons, was soon replaced and the committee and the science ministry verdict only after satisfactory confirma- people assemble to pray and celebrate. was instead handed over the Ministry of has been debating over the methods of tions. Fawad Chaudhry’s tone and tem- But the priority is to know why to arise. Eid-Ul-Fitr is being celebrated after the Science and Technology. the moon-sighting while the former per were not good enough though there end of Ramadan i.e. on the first day of Chaudry is known for his flawed re- insisting on “Shahdats” and the latter were chances of appearances of moon in It is ready to givesmell and sweet water Shawaal. Eid is a festival of happiness, marks and controversies throughout demanding of the authority to adopt certain cities of Pakistan. To this extent charity, joy, and thanksgiving. On this Pakistan and abroad. In past he has scientific methods. To interlock Science Fawad Chaudhry’s claims were right Because the job is done to cater. day the people meet and greet each oth- launched unnecessary attacks on the and Religion, Dr Tariq Masood, Joint but it was premature to say and decide er. This time due to covid-19 pandemic Ulema by labeling the gathering for Secretary Ministry of Science & Tech- the end of Ramadan so hastily. Had My voice is hidden in this flower. the people could not meet each other moon-sighting as a waste of time and nology was appointed as member (tech- moon been sighted it was good to let the as gatherings are not allowed and the money. He didn’t stop there, and added nical expert) in the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Grand Mufti declare and announce. But My life is hidden in this flower. nationwide lockdown is in operation. further fuel to the fire by claiming that Committee by the Ministry of Religious Fawad Chaudry was purely involved in SHAHID SHAMSHAD The mosques, shrines, and other reli- religious scholars were against the cre- Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. utter Anna Parasti (egoism). It looked gious places are locked and closed for ation of Pakistan. Adding insult to in- The Ruet committee chairman ac- as if he was in a race to steal the show. 12TH PASS OUT. visitors to avoid and curtail the spread jury is Chaudhry’s habit of putting his knowledged that the moon sighting this But it was not only a matter of moon but KHUSHIPORA, ZAINAKOTE. of the virus. During the month of Ra- foot in his mouth and commenting on time was “very sensitive” and therefore faith and tradition. Infact People paid no madan people were advised not to visit things he knows nothing about. He is the body had focused on the southern ar- heed to the claims of Fawad Chaudhry, mosques and gather on occasions of known for another staggering statement eas where it was expected to be spotted. rather waited for the decision of Ruat Shab-e-Qadar, Jummat-ul-Vida and Eid; about 5G being launched in Pakistan by He also said that the judgment of testi- e Hilal committee. The Ruat e Hilal rather pray at home, which was hailed Huawei; a fact backed by neither solid monies received from areas where the committee took a lot of time to decide by some ulemas and challenged by few. nor liquid ground. moon was expected to be sighted took and it was accepted by Mufti Muneeb The Ramadan of this year was altogeth- In contrast to other countries Minis- “quite a lot of time”. that moon sighting this time was a very

{ er different as there were no congrega- ters of Science and Technology, Fawad Mufti Rehman showed his disagree- sensitive issue. After confusions and tional prayers and blissful meetings and Chauduary is simply LLB. His relevance ment with Fawad Chaudhry and said controversies the Eid was declared to be peopled adopted utmost austerity. But to the portfolio of Ministry of Science that, “he (Fawad) has no standing. We celebrated on Sunday. the most debatable issue during this and Technology has been questioned by are bound to the shariat.” He further year was not austerity but was when to many attacking his credentials. As per added that Chaudhry “should not inter- Author is a PhD Research Scholar, end fasting and celebrate Eid, whether his qualifications Chaudhry seems so fere in matters of religion” and request- Department of History, on 29th or 30th and the issue was stuck poorly matched for this ministry. ed the prime minister to stop him from University of Kashmir, Srinagar.

Wisdom Finds Truth

example of wisdom that is awakening us which impact the quality of knowledge thermore, wining and losing is part of the student because the reality is before his or from deep slumber. Let us try to know more that our students carry. Starting from poor game and thereby teaches us to accept her eyes. Everything happens according about it. quality of teachers and obsolete thinking things and constantly improve to make to a plan and we are the part and parcel of Wisdom is a quality of human personali- methods to make education a mere rat race things better. It also leads to mutual respect that very plan. The uncertainties of life will ty defined as having experience, knowledge with hyper competition. Enforcement of for either side. Another aspect of involving provide us an opportunity to ponder over and good judgement to take correct actions. discipline in strict terms kills the curiosity students through art, culture and creating things and ultimately lead to wisdom. More often, it is said that wisdom can be ac- of a child and the pass- fail system focuses work will break the monotony of mere fact In a nutshell, we can say that without quired through experience but experience more on marks rather than knowledge or mugging requirement leading to recogni- wisdom, a person is like an animal. He or itself doesn’t automatically confer wisdom. wisdom. These issues extend from the basic tion and exercise of freedom of expression. she doesn’t know his or her worth. He or SYED MUSTAFA AHMAD It would be appropriate to quote Greta here. elementary level right up to college where Giving students an opportunity to express she doesn’t know the real objective of the [email protected]. Many such examples exist in our past as critical and independent thinking has nev- themselves will bring out original and in- large Universe. well like Swami Vivekananda, reformist er emerged. dependent thinking. It will not only act as According to such person, the whole Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Subhash Chan- In order to escape this brain trap and in- a stress-buster but will also help students to universe is not a mystery to be pondered dra Bose. All of them had some thing in culcate our young generation with knowledge adopt soft skills as measures. over. In front of his or her eyes, the Sun, t is a universally accepted truth that common: they were well- read, educated, ultimately leading to wisdom, it is important These can be really effective in counter- the Sky, the Moon, the Earth, the tallest wisdom is an asset. In religions, the curious enough to seek answers and bold to make learning joyful and wholesome. In- ing the suicidal tendencies that students of- mountains, the difference among people, need of wisdom is highly stressed enough to oppose anything wrong. volving students in the decision making pro- ten suffer from. In the long run, the students the change of seasons, the alteration of Iupon. Wisdom is a way to find truth. Wisdom is vital because it pierces cess and being sensitive to their needs holds will know the real objective of nature. Why day and night, the cycle of birth and death, In this perspective, a 13-year- old young en- through the veils of ignorance, confusion key. Furthermore, India has achieved 90% are we here? What is our destiny? Why do the growth of different crops in different vironmentalist has awakened the world to and illusion leading to radiant light of enrolment at elementary level, the focus must the days and the nights come and go? Why seasons, the blowing of winds, the smell of the hollow promises on environment pro- truth. Therefore, it is all the more import- shift from quantity to quality. Sports, art and is this universe as it is? flowers, the diversity among animals, etc., tection by world leaders. Greta Thunberg, ant to make our citizens informed enough culture, fieldwork, etc., will help the students Why do people take birth? Why do we mean nothing. a teenage girl from Sweden, has reflected so that they can take right decision. The get and retain the information in a more have difference in everything? These things This person shuts eyes and is lost in his exemplary courage and has also fulfilled pre- requirement of all this stems down to meaningful way. They will be in a position to are wisdom. To know one’s value is the hall- or her own illusive world. When the con- the responsibility of the young generation providing quality education which is ho- know the real objective of learning. They will mark of wisdom. sciousness of knowing arises in him or her, to make our leaders accountable for their listic in nature. Rabindranath Tagore said, learn for ever if an environment of indepen- Further, the students should be giv- he or she embarks on the path of knowing actions. She has highlighted very basic “The really educated person is that who is dent and critical thinking is created. It will en a tint of practical aspect of what they and that is called wisdom. So, it is up to a yet fundamental flaws in policy making. A free from all biases and possesses the ability act as a catalyst in gaining wisdom. are learning. The value and urge of learn- person to reflect. Looking at yourselves and voice that everyone resonates with, special- to distinguish between ethical and unethi- Sports teaches a person skills which ing will increase more if they realize the find out the reality is the shortest way to ly the young generation. It is indeed com- cal conduct.” gives a responsibility to promote a coordi- above-mentioned things. It will make a know wisdom. Overall, a person is a mini- mendable that environmental degradation Looking into the education sector often nating and participating approach leading situation where the happiness and the sad- Universe. Now, the ball is in our court to has become the center of our talks. It is an reveals some glaring structural problems to installation of democratic values. Fur- ness will not leave any kind of impact on a look out for wisdom.

The road to a blue-green recovery

precedented changes in all aspects of soci- against climate change, providing us with Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we central to building back better must be ety". Back then, achieving unprecedented everything from food to energy, from med- were on course for global warming of more unprecedented reductions in anthropo- change in the short term may have seemed icine to employment, along with the oxy- than 3.5C by the end of this century. Once genic greenhouse gas emissions around a tall order but not so today. And while gen of every second breath we take. crossed, the dreaded line of 2C warming the world. Only then will we reverse the pandemics are not the prescription for In the face of COVID-19 restrictions, to would witness the ocean's loss of its coral decline of the ocean's health and best pro- mitigating climate change, they do demon- progress momentum in favour of a healthy reefs, home to 30 percent of its biodiversi- tect our own. strate possibilities. ocean, the first week of June will witness ty. What would that mean for the health We have a universally agreed plan to Amid the COVID-19 crisis, our chief a major global online event, the Virtual of the ocean? At this stage the truth is we save life in the ocean - SDG 14. This is the PETER THOMSON responsibility lies in the pursuit of the Ocean Dialogues. This series of inclusive don't know; but let's at least agree that it fourteenth goal of the United Nations' 2030 common good: caring for those around us, digital convenings is being designed and would not be good. That is an existential Sustainable Development Agenda, setting ALJAZEERA heeding the strictures of our authorities, hosted by the World Economic Forum and reality, for without a healthy ocean, we out a series of targets aimed at conserving and supporting the heroic efforts of our Friends of Ocean Action, with a view to know we cannot have a healthy planet. and sustainably using the ocean's resourc- f there were ever a tide in human essential services and health workers. But producing actionable solutions in favour Thus, those global warming green- es. affairs that should be taken, this is these dark times will soon end, and we will of conserving and sustainably using the house gas emissions are our common We will need a compass to guide our re- it. A pitiless pandemic has befallen find ourselves stepping out on the road of ocean's resources. The best interests of enemy. They are the cause of the ocean's covery course and we have a reliable one Ius, bringing sadness and sacrifice recovery. people and planet alike demand that com- falling oxygen levels and rising levels in the form of the 2030 Sustainable Devel- around the world. But when we raise When we do, it is the high road to a sus- mitments and action for a healthy ocean of acidity, both trends exacerbating and opment Agenda, coupled with the Paris our eyes, we see that skies are free of jet- tainable world that we must take, not the are not held back. both stressing life under the waves. Our Climate Agreement. stream scars, city air is clear and clean, low one returning to planet-polluting sin- Perhaps the greatest risk resulting escalating greenhouse gas emissions are Through these, we can ensure that sweet birdsong echoes down our streets. gle-use plastics, profligate burning of fos- from the COVID-19 pandemic would be the cause of the warming of the ocean, by short-term recovery solutions are in ac- And those long-recommended modes of sil fuels and wanton denigration of nature. that we lose sight of the most fundamental which coral is bleached, ecosystems lost, cord with long-term development and cli- cyberspace office-work and meetings have Human security demands that we build challenge facing humanity, namely that of extreme weather events fomented, and sea mate action objectives. become the norm. back better - the recovery road to a blue- reducing our greenhouse gas emissions to levels made to rise ever upwards. The vision of a blue-green post-pandem- In 2018, a special report on global warm- green future lies ahead. The blue element levels that will keep global warming below And so, when this cursed pandemic ic recovery fully accepts the priorities of ing from the IPCC told us that, "limiting of this recovery is that of a sustainable 1.5C. Venture above that figure and we will retreats and we enter into the inevitably fostering economic development and cre- global warming to 1.5 [degrees Celsius] ocean economy; for the ocean covers 70 be placing the wellbeing of future genera- tough times of the recovery phase, the ating employment, at the same time pro- would require rapid, far-reaching and un- percent of the planet, is our greatest buffer tions in great jeopardy. self-interest of our species demands that moting greater social equity and welfare.

Printer, Publisher, Owner & Editor: Parvaiz Ahmad Khan Exe. Editor: Raja Muzamil Published From: Dadi Kadal Tanki Pora D.C Office Road, Srinagar Kashmir -190001, Cell No: +91-9419007532, +91-9419007530 Tele/Fax: 0194-2486069 Printed at : Khidmat Offset Press The Bund Srinagar Regd : JKNP-177 RNI No: JKENG/2012/43267 SRINAGAR 05 OBSERVER Srinagar / SundAY / 31 MaY i 2020 News Director SKIMS Poor Patients To Accorded Farewell To DGP Sanctions Get Financial Succor: Various Employees Retirement Gift In Favour DM Anantnag SO NEWS DESK erly ill COVID +ve patients are Of 106 Police Personnel provided all the requisite medi- ANANTNAG: Medical isolation cal facilities. facility for symptomatic COVID The DM said that the district +ve patients has been augmented administration will leave no to 64 from existing 14 at Govt. Med- stone unturned in making best ical College hospital Anantnag. medical facilities available to The decision to this effect the COVID +ve patients to avoid was taken by District Magis- deaths on account of infection. trate, Mr K.K Sidha during his Earlier, Mr. Sidha interacted inspection of the hospital. with the patients and enquired The DM said that it was im- about the health care facilities. perative to augment hospital He asked the Superintendent isolation facility in view of GMC to furnish a list of poor pa- spike in COVID-19 +ve cases tients for extending them financial in the district. The augmented succor during the present crisis. bed strength, he said will be The DM sanctioned Rs. 10,000/- out equipped fully as per the pro- of district red cross fund to a poor tocol so that the critical or sev- patient admitted in the hospital.

SO NEWS DESK administrators, managers and skilled manpower. SKIMS Bemina Crosses SRINAGAR: Director SKIMS/ Director SKIMS also present- SO NEWS DESK ing superannuation or taking 69 Non-Gazetted officers, 26 EOSG Dr. A.G Ahangar accorded Citations to these employ- voluntary retirement. lower subordinates and 8 200 recovery mark ed farewell to various employees ees as a mark of recognition of JAMMU: As a token of appre- The gift of rupees Seven- Followers. The personnel be- SO NEWS DESK of SKIMS who attained superan- their outstanding services and ciation for their services in ty-Five thousands each has longed to different units and nuation today on 30th May , 2020. contributions in transforming various capacities to the de- been sanctioned out of Con- wings of the department. SRINAGAR: Fourteen (14) more COVID-19 patients ad- Director SKIMS/EOSG the dream of this Institute into partment, the Director Gener- tributory Police Welfare Fund Retirement gift at a uniform mitted in SKIMS Hospital Bemina for treatment after test- while bidding farewell ac- an “Island of Excellence”. al of Police Shri Dilbag Singh on their superannuation or rate of rupees seventy-five ing positive more than two weeks back at various referral knowledged the contribution Those who were present on sanctioned retirement gift of voluntarily retirement. thousands is sanctioned to centres were discharged today the 30th of May, 2020 after of these employees who served the occasion included Dean rupees 79,50,000 in favour of Order has been issued each police personnel from successful completion of treatment. They include Nine (09) in various capacities in differ- Medical Faculty SKIMS, Medi- 106 Police personnel of J&K vide PHQ Order No. 1644 for the Contributory Police Wel- from District Budgam, Two (02) from Bandipora, Two (02) ent departments of SKIMS. He cal Superintendent, H.O.D Ne- Police who are retiring from grant of retirement gift in fa- fare Fund (CPWF) at the time from Anantnag, and one (01) from Shopian. said their meritorious services phrology, Hospital Administra- service tomorrow after attain- vour of 03 Gazetted Officers, of his/her retirement. The gift With this the number of COVID-19 recovered patients moves have immensely contributed to tion, Superintending Engineer to 203 and 41 still under treatment out of total COVID positive the growth of this Institution IT and other Sectional heads of admitted patients numbering 246 since 1st April 2020. Among in their capacities as inspiring various departments. the admitted patients a large number of COVID positive pregnant women have been managed and till date 12 deliveries conducted including 05 major surgeries for child birth (LSCS) on Director RDD Kashmir tours DC Budgam convenes introductory cum review Man booked for escaping various blocks of district Bandipora from quarantine center SO NEWS DESK meeting with officers IMRAN KHAN SRINAGAR: In order to review SO NEWS DESK department wise review amid the progress achieved in differ- COVID-19, the DC instructed all RAJOURI: Rajouri police on Saturday arrested a person ent sectors / flagship schemes BUDGAM: A Day after as- executing agencies to apply for for escaping from an administrative quarantine center in under implementation in Dis- suming charge as Deputy Com- special COVID-19 permission Thanamandi area. trict Bandipora and assessment missioner, Budgam, Shahbaz passes with respect to construc- SSP Rajouri, Chandan Kohli said that a man identified as of COVID-19 control efforts, Di- Ahmad Mirza today convened tion of roads, buildings, laying Shakeel Ahmed son of Abdul Ghani resident of Bhanghai rector Rural Development Kash- introductory meeting with all of pipelines, installation of elec- Thanamandi was in administrative quarantine center at Boys mir Mr. Qazi Sarwar here today District & sectoral officer of the tric poles and transformers. It is Higher Secondary School Thanamandi from where he fled toured various blocks of district District. At the outset, Joint Di- pertinent to mention here that away in the intervening night of Friday and Saturday. Bandipora. The Director was ac- rector planning formally wel- higher authorities have already “ Soon after the matter came to fore, special police team headed companied by Superintending comed DC Budgam for assuming granted permission to 156 proj- by Station House Officer Fareed Ahmed under the supervision Engineer REW Kashmir, ACD the charge. The meeting among ects/works to kick start devel- of Sub Divisional Police Officer Sajjad Khan was framed which Bandipora, Executive Engineer, others was attended by Rafiq Ah- opmental work in Budgam. The conducted raids at various places.” the police officer said. REW Bandipora, Block Develop- mad J.D planning, Dr. Moham- DC directed EXENs of all execut- Accused was later traced and arrested and has once again been ment Officers and field staff of mad Ashraf GM DIC Budgam, ing agencies to call for effective put into the administrative quarantine as per SOP while a case in the District. SE Hydraulics, SE EM &RE, meeting with contractors so that FIR 102/2020 under sections 188, 269 IPC and 3 EPD Act has been The Director stressed upon frequent washing of hands, use of masks in Red Zone areas. CEO, ACD, DIO, EXENs of R&B, issues related to labour & mate- registered in Thanamandi police station against the accused. execution of Works under vari- face masks and maintenance of The Director also held a sep- PHE, PDD, REW, Irrigation, rial are sorted out before hand. Rajouri police appeals all the people to follow Standard Op- ous flagship programmes as per social distancing at work sites. arate interaction session with PMGSY, and other concerned The DC was apprised that erating Procedures meant for management and prevention of sanctioned estimates and their After the field visit, the DRDK Chairpersons of Block Develop- District and sectoral officers. MGNREGA action plan for COVID19 that especially include disclosing travel history. completion within stipulated chaired a review meeting at ment Councils in which their In his address, the DC 2020-21 stands approved with time lines and as per the latest Mini Secretariat Bandipora role in containment of spread Budgam stated that 'he shall the target of 13 lac Person days instructions communicated by which was attended by con- of COVID19 was highly appre- extend full support to officers and the work is going in full A Sikh hangs self, another found dead the Government. Besides, pur- cerned Sectoral / block level of- ciated as a result of which the of District administration for swing in all blocks of the Dis- AGENCIES suance to directions of Advisor ficers / officials of the District. It district has remarkably per- prompt execution of work. The trict. It was also revealed in the Baseer Khan, it was enjoined was informed that 116 number of formed in reducing the number DC interacted with all officers meeting that under languish- SRINAGAR: Dead bodies of two persons belonging to Sikh faith upon all the concerned officers new works have been taken-up of COVID-19 positive cases. The of District administration and ing projects, work is under pro- were found in two different parts of Kashmir Valley on Saturday. to take-up the works in each and in the District, engaging 1356 Chairpersons highlighted sever- instructed them to remain com- cess for 100 projects out of total During morning hours, locals found Sikh hanging from a tree in Mir every Panchayat of the District House-holds and generating 8580 al grievance for which the Direc- mitted and perform duty with 114 projects. Bazar area that falls under the jurisdiction of Police Station Kulgam. (except Red Zone areas), so as PDs. Further the District has tor issued on-spot directions to utmost dedication. The DC emphasized that They informed the police that took possession of the body. to revive the rural economy in procured 3.96 lacs reusable cot- the concerned officers for their During the meeting, J.D COVID-19 has posed a chal- A police official said that the slain was a 36 year old truck view of prevailing situation. The ton masks out of which 3.00 lacs immediate redressal. Planning highlighted the en- lenge for the entire District driver and hails from Jammu. He identified the deceased as Director visited various work masks were distributed among Further, the Director assured tire profile of District ranging administration and in these Ravinder Singh of Gigersimbli Paryal area of Jammu. A case sites and interacted with the la- health Officials, Frontline work- the participants to forward from area, literacy, population, circumstances it is incumbent has been registered in this regard. bourers registered under MGN- ers and general public (priority/ certain grievance cannot be re- sex ratio, status of electricity, upon all officers to accept the Police also recovered a dead body of another Sikh near FCI REGA. They were advised to non-priority beneficiaries) with solved at Directorate level to roads, water and other parame- challenge and come up to the Store in Gurubazar area of Srinagar city. The slain who was follow safety protocols including main focus on distribution of higher competent authorities. ters of District. While taking the expectations of the people. a truck conductor has been identified as 60 year old Tarseem Lal son of Sajoo Raam of Unchi Basti Dasoowa area of Punjab. Working Journalist's frames association under banner Srinagar Police of Bhalessa Bunjwah Thathri Journalists Association Army welcomes Bakerwal Seizes Gas Agency SO NEWS DESK SHAFQAT SHEIKH Community in Kigam- SRINAGAR: Acting tough BHALESSA: The working Jour- Kandi Bowl in Kupwara against the violators of Govt nalists across the hilly terrain prohibitory orders, Police have regions of Doda and Kishtwar, booked 09 shopkeepers for de- today framed association under fying restriction orders in Sri- banner of Bhalessa Bunjwah nagar, besides seized Gas Agen- Thathri Journalists Association. cy at Hassanul Bannat Colony The meeting was attended by Umerhair area of Srinagar. scores of journalists and various Officers in the jurisdiction of PS issues were discussed for admin- Sadder have booked 09 shopkeepers istrative redressal. for defying prohibitory orders im- During the course of meeting, posed by Govt. Accordingly, Police Senior Journalist Ishtyak Malik have registered cases vide FIR num- presents the welcome address and bers 137/2020, 138/2020, 139/2020, framed the association under name 140/2020, 141/2020, 142/2020 and and style of "Bhalessa Bunjwah 143/2020 under relevant sections Thathri Journalists Association" . of law at Police Station Sadder and Firdous Khanday was given MIR ARIF Bakerwals, they were whole- further investigations into the cas- responsibility of President of as- heartedly welcomed and dis- es have been initiated. sociation whereas Ishtyak Malik KUPWARA: Chak- Kigam tributed with Solar Lamp and In the jurisdiction of PS Soura, was elected Gen. Secretary, Rafi Battalion under aegis of 8 Sweets. Also during the event Police alongwith Tehsildar Ei- Choudhury was elected Chief Sector Army of Kilo Force their medical issues were ad- dgah seized a Hamdan Gas Agen- Advisor and Shafqat Sheikh was continues its effort to reach dressed and basic medicines cy at Hassanul Bannat Colony elected Chief Spokesperson of out to Bakerwal communi- alongwith Health and Hy- Umerhair 90-feet Road. The store the association. ty who have migrated from giene items were distributed. along with 400 cylinders has been The association was framed Baber Nafice , Arif Suhail Malik, the district administration must wearing of masks and maintain- South Kashmir to area of Ki- The family of the nomads sealed by concerned Tehsildar. among which Ravi Vanshi and Ch. as Executive members of the asso- appreciates and encourage the ing of social distance to avoid the gam- Kandi Bowl. have also been gifted with In this regard Police have Mohd Saleem were elected as Vice ciation for the year 2020-21. works of Journalists during spread of Covid 19 pandemic. On arrival of Bakerwal mobile phones to ensure bet- registered a case FIR No.52/2020 President, besides Akram Malik The association president Fir- Covid 19 pandemic. Rafi Choudhury Chief Advi- community Chak-Kigam Bat- ter connectivity for them as under relevant sections of law at as Joint Secretary, Arjun Thak- dous Khanday lauded the efforts The working Journalists urged sor of association presents votes talion of 47 Rashtriya Rifles they venture in higher reach- Police Station Soura and inves- ur as Publicity Secretary, Anzer of working Journalists during upon entire media fraternity for of thanks and urged upon all to interacted with the Bakerwals es of local forests. tigation has been initiated. Ayoub as Advisor, Bilal Bhalessi the country wide lockdown of unity and fight for cause of justice. works with zeal and zest for re- at various locations on and as- The gesture shown by the Police have once again re- and Ishtyak Batt as Organisers, Covid 19 pandemic. Adding the They appealed general public for gaining the power of media. sured them for any assistance. Indian Army was well appre- quested the general public to fol- During the interaction ciated by the Bakerwals and low the restrictions imposed by ensuring effort to strength- they extended their grati- Government in order to prevent The association was framed among which Ravi Vanshi and Ch. Mohd Saleem were elected as Vice en relations of Army with tudes towards the Army. the spread of Covid-19 and those President, besides Akram Malik as Joint Secretary, Arjun Thakur as Publicity Secretary, Anzer Ayoub as Advisor, Bilal Bhalessi and who are violating the restric- Ishtyak Batt as Organisers, Baber Nafice , Arif Suhail Malik, as Executive members of the association for the year 2020-21. tions will be dealt strictly.

Use Of Masks Mandatory In SRINAGAR 06 OBSERVER SRINAGAR / SUNDAY / 31 MAY I 2020 BUSINESS

Rishi Sunak sets out plans to taper off UK's Even before Covid19, India's covid19 job saving scheme from August economy was slumping London: UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak has to start paying towards people's wages, set out the UK government's plans to taper with taxpayer contribution dropping to 70 New Delhi: The Indian economy rate is estimated at 28.7 per cent in off the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme per cent of the furlough grant and employ- was in its worst phase even before 2019-20. At the same time, its fiscal from August as the economy gradually ers covering 10 per cent. By October, tax- the coronavirus outbreak, with capacity to combat these challeng- opens up from the pandemic lockdown. payer contribution will fall to 60 per cent growth in the gross domestic prod- es is weakened due to sharply con- The Indian-origin finance minister on and employers will pay 20 per cent before uct (GDP) falling to a 11-year low of tracting tax revenues of the Central Friday said the furlough, or forced leave, the scheme closes at the end of the month. 4.2 per cent in 2019-2020. The econo- government. In 2020-21, the growth scheme, under which the UK taxpayer cov- I have aimed to make the scheme as flex- my grew by 3.1 per cent in the Jan- outcome will depend on the balance ered 80 per cent of the wages of nearly a ible and generous as possible. But there uary-March quarter of 2019-2020, between the positive contribution million jobs, will begin to wind down with will be hardship ahead for many and I will against 5.7 per cent at the same time of agriculture and public adminis- employers asked to contribute a "modest" work very hard to get people back into a year ago, the slowest growth in at tration and defence services, and proportion of those costs from August be- jobs, he said, when asked about looming least eight years. the subdued performance of manu- fore it ends in October. unemployment as the lockdown is lifted. According to National Statistical facturing, construction and the two The furlough scheme cannot continue The minister, who has been at the fore- Office data, the manufacturing sector heavyweight service sectors,” he indefinitely. Employers will be asked to con- front of the UK's economic response to the has grown merely by 0.03 per cent in explained. tribute, alongside the taxpayer, to pay the pandemic, also confirmed that a taxpay- FY 2019-20 compared to 5.7 per cent in Weather forecasts for normal wages of their staff, said Sunak, as he higher-funded grant for self-employed workers the previous year. monsoon rains offer hope that the lighted that no British government in histo- has also been extended for another three The growth of the construction rural sector can help support mil- ry had undertaken a scheme at such a scale. months, with a second payment of up to sector, which is responsible for a spill- lions of migrant workers who re- From July 1, a flexible furlough will be GBP 6,500 available under the Self-Employ- over effect on several other indus- country is likely to enter Lockdown been a fall mainly in manufacturing, turned to their villages from the cit- in place. Employers will have maximum ment Income Scheme. At the end of Octo- tries, too declined to 1.3 per cent. 5.0, with a few exemptions, to curb construction as also in the two heavy- ies when the lockdown began. flexibility to decide to bring back employ- ber, all such schemes will be wound down Gross capital formation has also the spread of coronavirus infec- weight service sectors — trade, hotels, Hitting out at the BJP govern- ees for a number of days per week, he said. to focus on opening up the economy. remained low in FY 2019-20, while tions. Hit by the lockdown of over etc, and financial and real estate ser- ment, Congress leader P. Chidam- As part of the changes, in June and July, Not everything will look the same as be- the growth of deposits in banks de- two months, many businesses, reel- vices,” said D.K. Srivastava, EY In- baram said he predicted Q4 GDP the scheme will continue as before with fore. We won't be able to put the key into clined to 7.9 per cent, compared to ing due to the worst slowdown, shut dia’s chief policy adviser. growth would touch a new low at the government covering 80 per cent of the lock and step into the world as it was in 10 per cent in the previous fiscal — operations, leading to lakhs of job “India is thus facing a problem of below four per cent. wages up to GBP 2,500 with no employer January. But the government will do what hinting at low-level savings. Bank losses. falling investment and savings and “It has turned out to be worse at contribution. it can to help people thrive in the post- credit growth more than halved to “Due to a 2.8 per cent contraction an acute problem of Covid-induced 3.1 per cent. This is pre-lockdown. Of In August, the taxpayer contribution COVID world, Sunak added. 6.1 per cent, compared to the previ- in investment and 3.6 per cent fall in lockdown. 91 days of Q4, the lockdown applied will stay at 80 per cent, with employers The minister, who was addressing the ous fiscal’s 13.3 per cent, that shows exports, real GDP growth has fallen In 2019-20, gross capital formation to only to seven days. It’s a telling asked to pay National Insurance and Em- daily Downing Street briefing, revealed people’s consumption too will be to 4.2 per cent in 2019-20, which is the at current prices, as a proportion commentary on the BJP’s econom- ployer Pension Contributions, which are that a further 324 fatalities over the pre- lower. lowest since 2008-09 when it was 3.1 of GDP, has fallen to 29.7 per cent ic management,” Mr Chidambaram about 5 per cent of employment costs. vious day meant that the UK coronavirus The data comes a time when the per cent. On the output side, there has of GDP. By implication, the saving said. By September, employers will be asked death toll now stands at 38,161.

SC issues notices to Tata in Three Indian companies get licence to Yes Bank acquires 24% Mistry’s cross-appeal case manufacture NASA's coronavirus ventilators stake in Dish TV India

Washington: Three Indian companies have got licences from NASA to manufacture its indigenously developed ventilators for critical COVID-19 patients. The three Indian companies are Alpha Design Technologies Pvt Ltd, Bharat Forge Ltd and Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd, the space organisation said in a statement on Friday. Apart from the Indian firms, 18 other companies, including eight American New Delhi: The Supreme acknowledged oppression of and three Brazilian, have been selected Court issued notices on Fri- minority shareholder in re- to manufacture the critical breathing day to Tata Sons Ltd and moving Mistry as executive devices. Ratan Tata on a plea by two chairperson of Tata Sons The National Aeronautics and Space Shapoorji Pallonji group and had reinstated Mistry Administration (NASA), which is an ified for use in field hospitals, the NASA A high-fidelity lung simulator tested Mumbai: Yes Bank has ac- "The shares have been firms, Cyrus Investments to that position, it failed to independent agency for space research, statement read. almost 20 different ventilator settings, quired 44.53 crore equity acquired on invocation of and Sterling Corp., seeking grant certain crucial reliefs aeronautics and related programmes in "The VITAL team is very excited to representing a number of scenarios that shares each having a nom- pledge of shares and this is board representation pro- to the firms. the US, developed the ventilator specifi- see their technology licenced," said Leon could be seen in critically ill patients in inal value of one rupee and a one-time transaction," said portionate to the 18.4% stake “The NCLAT by limiting cally for coronavirus patients at its Jet Alkalai, manager of the JPL Office of an intensive care unit, it said. constituting 24.19 per cent of Yes Bank in regulatory fil- they hold in the Tata group the relief granted to the ap- Propulsion Laboratory (JLP) in South- Strategic Partnerships. "VITAL performed well in simulation Dish TV India Ltd's post-is- ings at stock exchanges late holding company. pellants in connection with ern California. "Our hope is to have this technology testing with both precise and reproduc- sue paid-up share capital as on Friday. The notices were issued their prayer for Board rep- The JPL engineers designed the spe- reach across the world and provide an ible results," said Dr Tisha Wang, clini- on March 31. Dish TV India Ltd is a di- on a plea moved by the two resentation, only to the re- cial ventilator -- called VITAL -- in little additional source of solutions to deal cal chief of the UCLA Division of Pulmo- The shares have been ac- rect to home entertainment firms against a December mainder of Cyrus Mistry’s over a month and received 'Emergency with the on-going COVID-19 crisis," he nary and Critical Care Medicine. quired pursuant to invoca- service provider. 2019 ruling by the National tenure has not secured the Use Authorization' from the Food and said. "In addition, the setup and operation tion of pledge of the shares The company has a Company Law Appellate Tri- interest of the Shapoorji Pal- Drug Administration on April 30. NASA said VITAL was developed with of the ventilator was quick and us- subsequent to default/ bandwidth capacity of bunal (NCLAT). lonji group from any preju- The VITAL (Ventilator Intervention input from doctors and medical device er-friendly. The UCLA team commends breach of terms of credit 1,422 MHz with an ability A bench of justices AS dicial conduct in the future,” Technology Accessible Locally) equip- manufacturers. JPL for actively contributing to the facilities sanctioned by Yes to deliver more than 655 Bopanna and Hrishikesh the petition said. ment uses one-seventh the parts of a A prototype of the JPL device was COVID-19 response and successfully ad- Bank to Essel Business Ex- channels and services, in- Roy tagged the petition The NCLAT, in its De- traditional ventilator, relying on parts successfully tested by the Human Sim- dressing one of the key medical needs in cellence Services Ltd, Essel cluding 40 audio channels along with the appeals filed cember 18, 2019 judgment, already available in supply chains, the ulation Lab in the Department of Anes- the sickest group of patients," a media Corporate Resources Pvt and 70 HD channels and by Tata Sons in January had ruled in favour of the space organisation said. thesiology, Perioperative and Pain Med- statement said. Ltd, Living Entertainment services. challenging the NCLAT ver- Mistry firms holding that This high-pressure ventilator offers icine at Mount Sinai on April 23. The coronavirus, which first emerged Enterprises Pvt Ltd, Last It reported a consolidated dict. Both appeals will now the proceedings of the board a simple, affordable option for treating A modified design, which uses com- in China's Wuhan city, has claimed Mile Online Ltd, Pan India total income of Rs 6,218.28 be heard together. meeting of Tata Sons held on critical patients while freeing up tra- pressed air and can be deployed by a 1,02,836 lives in the US, with over 1.7 Network Infravest Ltd, RPW crore as on March 31, 2019. Cyrus Investments and October 24, 2016, removing ditional ventilators for those with the greater range of hospitals, was recently million confirmed cases so far. Projects Pvt Ltd, Mumbai Dish TV India is operated by Sterling said in their peti- Mistry as chairman was il- most severe COVID-19 symptoms. Its tested at the UCLA Simulation Center in The global death toll has crossed WTR Pvt Ltd and Pan India the Zee Group and the Video- tion that although NCLAT legal. flexible design means it also can be mod- Los Angeles. 3,50,000. Infraprojects Pvt Ltd. con Group.

US warns governments, shipping companies on German airline Lufthansa agrees to give aiding Iran fuel shipments to Venezuela up airport slots for $10 billion bailout Berlin: German flagship air- had been reduced compared WASHINGTON: Seeking to Iran, both OPEC members have been sent privately to line Lufthansa agreed Satur- to initial plans, dpa reported. deter further shipments of with fraught relations with governments “around the day to a compromise worked Under the agreement, the Iranian fuel to Venezuela, the United States. world.” out between the government airline must remove up to the Trump administration The government of Ven- A person familiar with the and the European Union, four aircraft from the two has quietly warned foreign ezuelan Socialist President matter said among them was overcoming a major hurdle airports, equivalent to three governments, seaports, ship- Nicolas Maduro has flaunt- Gibraltar, situated on the toward final approval of a 9 daily take-off and three land- ping companies and insur- ed the tankers’ arrivals to tankers’ route. A U.S. official billion-euro (USD 10 billion) ing rights per aircraft, to al- ers that they could face stiff show it remains unbowed by said various countries had bailout from Berlin. low competitors to take the U.S. sanctions if they aid the pressure. The United States, been asked to deny then port Lufthansa said in a state- Monday to help Lufthansa, slots, the airline said. tanker flotilla, the U.S. envoy which seeks Maduro’s oust- services. ment it had agreed to the which, like most airlines, The slots will be re-allo- on Venezuela told Reuters on er, has called it a “distrac- It remained unclear what compromise worked out has been struggling during cated through a bid process. Friday. tion.” impact this effort might between Germany and the the coronavirus pandemic. Discount airlines Ryanair Elliott Abrams, Washing- “We’ve alerted the ship- have. EU in which the airline The EU imposed condi- and easyJet are both thought ton’s special representative ping community around the Two other tankers, the Li- will have to give up several tions, however, saying that to be interested. on Venezuela, said the pres- world, ship owners, ship beria-flag Bella and Bering, prized landing slots at Mu- bailouts must include mea- Lufthansa's supervisory sure campaign targeting captains, ship insurers, and passed through the Suez Ca- nich and Frankfurt airports. sures that would maintain a board now needs to approve heavily sanctioned U.S. foes The Venezuelan navy on sures” in response to the we’ve alerted ports along the nal in early May, according to The dpa news agency re- level playing field for other the full rescue package, in- Iran and Venezuela was be- Thursday escorted a fourth shipments. At least one other way between Iran and Ven- Refinitiv Eikon data. Sources ported the German govern- companies. cluding the conditions, and ing waged “to be sure every- tanker bringing Iranian fuel tanker was en route in the ezuela,” Abrams said in an familiar with the matter said ment had also agreed to the Specifics on the EU's de- the German government one recognizes this would be through its waters to the Atlantic. interview. United States was looking for compromise. mands weren't announced, needs to finalize its plans a very dangerous transaction gasoline-starved country, It was a sign of deepening He said diplomatic warn- ways to prevent them from The government an- but Lufthansa said the scope with the European Commis- to assist.” defying U.S. threats of “mea- ties between Venezuela and ings, known as demarches, reaching Venezuela. nounced the aid package on of commitments it agreed to sion. RBI imposes Rs 4 crore penalty on Citibank

New Delhi: The Reserve Bank of India based on deficiencies in regulatory com- RBI under the provisions of Section 47 as to why the monetary penalty should (RBI) on Friday said that it has imposed pliance and is not intended to pronounce A (1) (c) read with Section 46 (4) (i) and not be imposed for non-compliance with a monetary penalty of Rs 4 crore on Citi- upon the validity of any transaction or Section 56 of the Banking Regulation the aforesaid directions. After consider- bank for the contravention of Section agreement entered into by the bank with Act, 1949, taking into account failure of ing the banks' reply, oral submissions 10 (1) (b) (ii) of Banking Regulation Act, its customers. the bank to adhere to the aforesaid direc- made during the personal hearing and 1949 (the Act). According to India's central bank, the tions issued by the RBI. additional submissions made after the RBI in a release said the monetary statutory inspection of the Indian oper- This action is based on deficiencies personal hearing, RBI came to the con- penalty has been imposed on Citibank ations of the bank with reference to its in regulatory compliance and is not in- clusion that the above charges were es- for non-compliance with the directions financial positions as on March 31, 2017, tended to pronounce upon the validity tablished and warranted imposition of issued by it on obtaining a declaration and March 31, 2018, and the Risk Assess- of any transaction or agreement entered monetary penalty," said the RBI. from customers about credit facilities ment Reports (RARs) pertaining thereto into by the bank with its customers, said "After considering the bank's reply enjoyed with other banks, granting non- revealed, inter-alia, contravention with the RBI. and oral submissions made during the fund based facilities to non-constituent the provisions of the Act and non-com- "The statutory inspection of the banks personal hearing, the RBI came to the borrowers, verifying data available in pliance with the above-mentioned direc- with reference to its financial position conclusion that the charges regarding CRILC database and obtaining no-ob- tions issued by the RBI. as on March 31, 2018, conducted by RBI, non-compliance with RBI directions on jection certificate (NOC) from lending RBI has also imposed a monetary Co-operative Bank Ltd, Ahmednagar, While imposing a monetary penalty revealed, inter alia, non-compliance IRAC norms, management of advances banks at the time of opening current ac- penalty of Rs 60 lakh on Bharat Co-op- for non-compliance with directions is- on Bharat Co-operative Bank (Mumbai) with RBI directions on IRAC norms and and exposure norms and statutory/oth- counts, and submission of compliance to erative Bank (Mumbai) Ltd, Rs 45 lakh sued by it on the Income Recognition Ltd, TJSB Sahakari Bank Limited (the Frauds - classification and reporting. er restrictions were established and war- risk assessment findings. on TJSB Sahakari Bank Limited (the and Asset Classification (IRAC) norms bank), RBI said that the penalty has been A separate notice was issued to both ranted imposition of monetary penalty," According to the RBI, this action is bank) and Rs 40 lakh on Nagar Urban and Frauds. imposed in exercise of powers vested in the banks advising them to show cause said the RBI. SRINAGAR 07 OBSERVER Srinagar / SundAY / 31 MaY i 2020 News

US 'Very Saddened' By What Happened Elections for five non-permanent members of UNSC next month; To The Relationship With China: Trump India assured of seat Washington: President Don- na to agree for an inquiry into ald Trump has said the US is "very the origin of the virus, including saddened" by what happened the allegation that it emerged to its relationship with China, from a bio-lab in the central Chi- hours after he announced a series nese city of Wuhan. of decisions against it and blamed "The world is now suffering as the Chinese government's "mal- a result of the malfeasance of the feasance" for the death and dev- Chinese government," he said. astation caused by the COVID-19 He added that China had "insti- pandemic worldwide. gated a global pandemic that has Amid escalating bilateral cost over 100,000 American lives". tensions over the coronavirus The president accused China of pandemic, trade issues and Bei- pressurising the WHO to "mis- jing's new controversial secu- lead the world" about the virus. rity law in Hong Kong, Trump However, China has rejected all announced a series of decisions US allegations of a cover up re- United Nations: The states casting its vote in a including issuing a proclama- garding the COVID-19 outbreak. UN General Assembly has secret ballot. tion to deny the entry to certain On asked if this was the start of decided to hold elections Now, large in-person meet- Chinese nationals and tighten- the Cold War between the US and for the five non-permanent ings at the world body's heading of regulations against Chi- China, he said, "And all over the members of the Security quarters stand postponed till nese investments in America. world, 186 countries, and prob- Council next month under the end of June due to the Trump also terminated the US' ably more than that now. And the new voting arrangements COVID-19 pandemic. relationship with the World Health they stopped it in China, but they due to the COVID-19 restric- Under the new voting ar- Organisation, accusing the UN's has killed over one lakh people in "Countless lives have been didn't see anything in Beijing didn't stop it going to Europe and tions, with India assured a rangement, President of the health body of misguiding the America alone. taken and profound economic and I didn't see anything in oth- the United States and the rest win being the sole contender General Assembly Tijjani world on the coronavirus and sid- Trump said that China con- hardship has been inflicted all er Chinese cities, but I did see of the world. So what's that all for the Asia Pacific seat. Muhammad-Bande will cir- ing with China on this issue. tained the virus within its own around the globe," Trump said. them in New York and London, about? And we have to do a very The 193-member General culate a letter to all Member We're talking about doing a territory but did not stop it from According to the Johns Hop- in Paris. We saw them in Spain strong study and figure that out. Assembly adopted the decision States at least 10 working lot of things and we're very, very spreading around the world. kins University data, the dead- and we saw them in Italy. We They wanted to go in, and they on Friday titled 'Procedure for days prior to the first round saddened by what happened to We are certainly not happy ly disease has infected nearly 6 saw that the enemy, the invisi- were delayed. But we asked to holding elections by secret bal- of the secret balloting, in- our relationship with China. with what happened with respect million people and claimed over ble enemy come out," he said. go in very specifically, and they lot without a plenary meeting forming them of the date on They should have never allowed to China. They have a virus that 364,000 lives worldwide. Led by the US, several coun- didn't want any help. They didn't during the coronavirus disease which the elections will be this to happen. They could have started and when it got out of con- The US is the worst-affected tries in the world have blamed need any help, and then it got out (COVID-19) pandemic'. held, the number of vacant stopped it at the source. We asked trol, perhaps, I assume that's what country in the world with over 1.7 China for the spread of coronavi- of control in some form. But it According to the decision, seats, the venue where bal- them to come in and help them, happened, it got out of control, million confirmed COVID-19 cas- rus and its failure to provide time- didn't seem to get out of control the elections of non-permanent lots may be cast and other and they didn't want help from whichever way and they stopped es and more than 102,000 deaths. ly information about the disease, when it came to going to other members to the Security Coun- logistical details. anybody, even the World Health it from going to China, but they They did not do a good job. leading to the death of over three parts of China because it didn't go cil and the election of members On the day of the elec- Organization, he told reporters at didn't stop it from going to the rest So, I don't know if it was incom- lakh people and causing an un- very far, but it did come to the Unit- to the Economic and Social tions, the voter will be re- the White House on Friday, refer- of the world. So nobody likes that. petence or it was done for some precedented economic crisis. ed States. It did come to Europe. It Council will be held simulta- quired to visit the designat- ring to the spread of the virus that That was not good, Trump said. other reason, but I know that I Trump has been pressing Chi- went all over the world, he said. neously in June 2020 without a ed venue during a specific plenary meeting. time slot to cast its ballots. Election for the five Only ballots cast in the non-permanent members of ballot boxes at the designat- Air India’s Moscow-Bound the 15-nation council for the ed venues will be accepted Virus-battered Italy faces worst 2021-22 term was originally and no ballots would be ac- Plane Called Back As Team scheduled on June 17. cepted after the last time slot India is a candidate for a has expired. recession since World War II non-permanent seat and its If the total number of bal- Finds Pilot Is Covid-19 +ve victory is assured as it is the lot papers cast in all the bal- New Delhi: An Air India’s der Vande Bharat Mission, had Milan: Facing its deepest sole candidate vying for the lot boxes do not amount to at Delhi-Moscow Airbus A-320 Neo reached Uzbekistan’s airspace, recession since World War II lone seat from the Asia Pa- least a majority of the mem- (VT-EXR) flight was forced to re- our team on ground realised and with business confidence cific grouping. bers of the Assembly, the turn midway after ground team that one of the pilots had tested collapsing, the coronavirus New Delhi's candidature President would circulate a realised that the pilot was coro- Covid-19 positive,” a senior Air pandemic is hitting Italy’s was unanimously endorsed letter to all Member States navirus positive. India official was quoted as say- economy hard. in June last year by the 55 indicating a new date and Officials said there was an ering by Press Trust of India. Business confidence in the members of the Asia-Pacific time for the elections. ror in the pre-flight test report, “The flight was immediately eurozone’s third largest econ- grouping, including China The General Assembly which was read as negative ini- asked to return. It came back to omy in May plummeted to its and Pakistan. President will circulate a tially. The pilot reportedly took Delhi at around 12.30 pm on Sat- lowest level since official sta- From India's perspective, letter to all Member States ill during the flight and was urday,” the official added. tistics institute ISTAT start- any change in the voting informing them of the re- called back. The crew has been quaran- ed the index in March 2005. method will not impact its sults once the voting is “When the A320 plane, which tined. Another plane would be The figure is “alarming”, chances. The term is to start complete and the ballots did not have any passengers as sent to Moscow to bring back said small business federa- in January 2021. counted. it was heading to Moscow to the stranded Indians, according tion Confesercenti. Traditionally, the UNSC Canada, Ireland and Nor- bring back stranded Indians un- to the officials. “The health and economic Italy was the first Euro- and a million jobs are in dan- elections are held in the way are vying for two seats emergency has swept busi- pean country to be hit by ger,” he said. General Assembly hall with in the Western Europe and nesses away, especially in the pandemic and imposed a “Jobs are only created if each of the 193 member other countries category. shops, services and tourism,” strict two-month lockdown there is growth, innovation, Russia Records Nearly 9,000 it said. which paralysed much of the investment. The car manufac- Its members are particu- country’s economic activity. turing crisis can’t be solved larly concerned “by the lack As a result, the country is with subsidies or furloughing. New Coronavirus Cases of liquidity necessary to pay set for a drop in GDP of be- You solve it by looking to the costs and salaries... we are tween nine and 13 percent, the future, by investing in new China home-built aircraft close to a point of no return Bank of Italy said on Friday. technologies,” he said. and that’s why the measures Data also showed that the Italy is set to be the main ben- carrier conducting sea trials decided by the government economy shrank 5.3 percent eficiary of a European Union Beijing: China's Defence Min- and entirely refurbished. (loan guarantees, SME subsi- in the first quarter -- worse 750-billion-euro recovery plan istry said the navy's only entire- Both are based on a Soviet dies) must be operational im- than the 4.7 percent initial- but it still may not be enough. ly home-built aircraft is carry- design with a "ski jump" style mediately,” said federation ly estimated. It had not seen Italian citizens are slightly ing out sea trials to test weapons flight deck for takeoffs rath- head Patrizia De Luise. such an “exceptional” decline more optimistic, but far from and equipment and enhance er than the flat decks used by “We need to reduce bu- in the first quarter since 1995, celebrating. The pandemic training of the crew. Ministry much larger US aircraft carri- reaucracy and accelerate and ISTAT said. has killed over 30,000 people. spokesperson Ren Guoqiang on ers. It is powered by a conven- Moscow: Russia has record- thorities are trying to lower the simplify procedures, because This year’s losses could Consumer confidence went Friday said the exercises were tional oil-fueled steam turbine ed nearly 9,000 new cases of the death toll for political reasons, if support is delayed again, amount to 170 billion euros, from 100.1 points in May to being conducted as planned, ap- power plant, compared to the coronavirus, roughly consis- Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana many businesses will have no equivalent to the GDP of 94.3 in March, its lowest level parently unaffected by the coun- nuclear fuel American carriers tent with the increases report- Golikova explained Friday that option but to stop,” she said. Veneto, Italy’s third biggest since December 2013. try's coronavirus outbreak. and submarines use. ed over the past two weeks. Russia’s count contains only The government last week industrial region, a Medio- While the state has paid for The Shandong's commission- China is seen as striving to The national coronavirus those confirmed to have died of accused banks of not acting banca study said. furloughs or handouts for those ing last year by Chinese President overtake the US as the domi- task force said Saturday that the infection, but she also gave quickly enough, but they The head of the country’s no longer able to work, many Xi Jinping underscored the coun- nant naval power in Asia and 4,555 Russians have died of figures for people who tested said that they had already main business confederation have slipped through the net. try's rise as a regional naval pow- already boasts the world's larg- Covid-19 and 396,575 infections positive for the virus but died passed on around 400,000 loan Cofindustria, Carlo Bonomi, They include Eleonora er at a time of tensions with the est navy in numbers of vessels. have been confirmed overall. of other causes. If all categories requests worth more than said that up to a million jobs Fogliacco, 35, a fitness and US and others over trade, Taiwan Beijing says aircraft carriers The relatively low mortality are counted as Covid-19 deaths, 18 billion euros ($20 billion) could be threatened nationwide. swimming teacher in Lom- and the South China Sea. are needed to protect its coast- rate compared with other coun- the nation’s total toll for April to the state-backed Central “We’re waiting for figures bardy, the hardest hit region It is the second Chinese aircraft line and trade routes, but they tries has prompted skepticism would stand at 2,713, or nearly Guarantee Fund. at the end of May but indica- where gyms were ordered carrier to enter service after the are also seen as backing up its domestically and abroad. In a 60 per cent more than the previ- - A million jobs threatened - tions are that between 700,000 closed at the end of February. Liaoning, which was originally claims to self-governing Tai- bid to dispel suspicions that au- ously announced number. purchased as a hulk from Ukraine wan and the South China Sea. China says US Action On Hong Kong 'Doomed To Fail'

Beijing: The mouthpiece of Chi- blackmailing or coercion...can only be Beijing has yet to give details on legislation in 2003. na's ruling Communist Party said US wishful thinking and day-dreaming!" what specific measures it will take in Beijing's resolve appeared to have moves to end some trading privileg- China has threatened to retaliate response, although the People's Daily been hardened by months of anti-gov- es for Hong Kong "grossly interfere" over the US move to cancel trading ad- editorial said China was prepared to ernment protests in Hong Kong that in China's internal affairs and are vantages granted to Hong Kong after make a "resolute counterattack and frequently led to violent confronta- "doomed to fail". its handover from British to Chinese what awaits you can only be a shame- tions between police and the largely Saturday's editorial in the newspa- rule in 1997. ful failure". youthful demonstrators. per People's Daily was responding to an Tensions over Hong Kong have in- In Hong Kong on Saturday, Secretary China repeatedly accused foreign announcement from President Donald creased over the past year as China for Justice Teresa Cheng said it was governments and international organi- Trump, after China's ceremonial Parlia- has cracked down on protesters and "completely false and wrong" to say the zations of fuelling the demonstrations, ment bypassed Hong Kong's local legis- strengthened its control over the Asian territory was losing its autonomy. while showing no direct evidence. lature to advance legislation that could financial hub. China's central authorities have the Speculation over Washington's re- severely curtail free speech and opposi- Critics say the vote on Thursday at absolute right to take action on na- sponse has included the possibility tion political activities in the semi-au- the National People's Congress to impose tional security regarding Hong Kong, that those connected with the crack- tonomous Chinese territory. security legislation on Hong Kong effec- Cheng told reporters. down, including members of the Hong It was the "firm determination of all tively negates Beijing's pledge to maintain She also criticised the US, saying "any Kong police force, could face U.S. trav- Chinese people" to oppose interference the territory's separate civil, legal and eco- other state that tries to use coercion or el bans or other sanctions. in Hong Kong affairs by any external nomic institutions under the "one coun- whatever means with a view to interfer- "It is now clear that Hong Kong is forces, the paper said. try, two systems" framework. ing with the sovereign right of a state caught in the middle of major Chi- "This hegemonic act of attempting Trump said the administration would to pass its own national security law is na-US tensions," said Tara Joseph, to interfere in Hong Kong affairs and begin eliminating the "full range" of arguably infringing on the principle of president of the American Chamber of grossly interfere in China's internal af- agreements that had given Hong Kong a non-intervention under public interna- Commerce in Hong Kong. fairs will not frighten the Chinese peo- relationship with the US that mainland with one country, one system," he said. status it has enjoyed from the US. tional law, and that is not acceptable". Businesses face multiple unan- ple and is doomed to fail," it said. China lacked, including exemptions Secretary of State Mike Pompeo It's not yet clear what impact the de- China passed the Hong Kong nation- swered questions about the unraveling Attempts at "forcing China to make from controls on certain exports. notified Congress on Wednesday that cision will have on US companies that al security law after stiff public oppo- of the special trading relationship and concessions on core interests includ- "China has replaced its promised Hong Kong is no longer deserving of operate in Hong Kong, or on the city's sition scuppered a previous attempt by it "won't be like flipping a switch", Jo- ing sovereignty and security through formula of one country, two systems, the preferential trade and commercial position as Asia's major financial hub. the territory’s legislature to pass such seph said. (AP) SRINAGAR SPORTS OBSERVER SUNDAY 31 MAY 2020

ACCORDING TO FORBES, KOHLI HAD AN ESTIMATED TOTAL EARNINGS OF $26 MILLION ($24M FROM endorsements and $2m from salary/ winnings). He made a jump of over 30 places from 2019, as he was positioned at the 66th spot in this year’s list VIRAT KOHLI only cricketer in Forbes’ top 100 highest-paid athletes of 2020

ndia captain Virat Kohli remained the only Forbes’ list of top 100 highest-paid athletes. cricketer to be included in the list of top In 2019, he was positioned at the 100th I100 highest-paid athletes of 2020 put for- place with an estimated earnings of $25 ward by Forbes magazine. The right-handed million. batsman is also the only Indian athlete to Meanwhile, Swiss tennis great Roger be featured in the list. According to Forbes, Federer has become the first from his sport Kohli had an estimated total earnings of to top Forbes’ list of highest paid athletes. $26 million ($24m from endorsements and With an estimated $106.3 million earned $2m from salary/winnings). He made a over the past 12 months, Federer edged out jump of over 30 places from 2019, as he was Portuguese football superstar Cristiano positioned at the 66th spot in this year’s list. Ronaldo from the top spot. The factors that went into Forbes’ cal- The three athletes immediately below culation were athletes’ revenue, including Federer are all football players with Ronaldo prize money, salaries, contract bonuses, en- on second with estimated earnings of $105 dorsements, royalties, and appearance fees million. His arch rival and Argentine great from June 1, 2019, until June 1, 2020. Lionel Messi is third with an estimated $104 This is the second year in a row that Kohli million while Brazil’s Neymar comes fourth has become the only Indian to feature in the with $95.5 million.

Options may be to cancel it this year: ‘UEFA to fast-track competitions in one venue’ CWI gives approval in MCC chief Sangakkara on WT20 ISTANBUL: UEFA plans to group has been set up with tion of games, the Turkish complete this season’s Cham- the participation of repre- Football Federation (TFF) principle for England tour Mumbai: The ICC T20 World pions League and Europa sentatives from the leagues hopes the Champions Lea- Cup has been a matter of hot League competitions by play- and clubs to examine cal- gue final will be played in debate with some calling for ing all rounds from the quar- endar solutions and format August — the month when it to be postponed to 2022 ter-finals onwards in one host options that would allow for Istanbul is usually sunk into with an eye on the coronavi- city, according to Getafe presi- the completion of the current the hot and humid summer rus pandemic while others dent Angel Torres. season. A variety of options torpor. feel that a ‘wait and watch Both competitions were are being looked at and no The final was set to be held policy should be adapted. put on hold at the last-16 decisions have been made at on Saturday at the Ataturk Marylebone Cricket Club stage in March due to the this stage.” Olympic Stadium. (MCC) President Kumar San- coronavirus pandemic, with Getafe’s last-16 first leg Today, the uncertainty gakkara feels that the point the Champions League final match away to Inter Milan reigns not only over the date of focus should be the virus in Istanbul and the Europa was postponed after fierce of a possible resumption of and how it will act over time. League showpiece in Gdansk criticism led by Torres at the the Champions League, sus- Speaking on Star Sports also being postponed. game going ahead in Italy, pended during the last 16, but show Cricket Connected, “UEFA’s idea is to play the which at the time was the also on the rest of the compe- the former Sri Lanka cap- immunity globally among found out, so we will have to Champions League and Eur- European epicentre of the tition as speculation abounds he Cricket West Indies board gave approval - tain said: “The real thing is the people to withstand this. wait and see, but the options opa League, starting from pandemic. whether will it return as nor- in principle - for West Indies’ tour of England what’s going to happen with So, those are really questions may be to cancel it this year, the quarter-finals, across one Sevilla’s first leg match at mal, if there will be no return the virus. Is it going to disap- that I don’t think anyone can postpone it to another year, match in one venue although home to AS Roma was also legs, or even if a “Final four” Twhich is likely to get underway in July. The pear like SARS and MERS, answer at the moment. but to have in place antici- nothing has been confirmed postponed, although the six tournament will be staged. decision was taken during a teleconference meet- or is this something that’s “We will get more clari- patory procedures that take yet,” Torres told Spanish ra- other first leg games did take “Whatever the scenario — going to come back seasonal- ty as time goes by. So, I can into account health and safe- dio station Cadena COPE on place. final or mini-tournament — ing of the Board of Directors of Cricket West Indies ly? Will we have to live with imagine sitting around a ty of both the players and the Friday. “They will come to The second legs of four we are ready,” said the TFF, following detailed discussions involving medical this particular virus or dif- table for the ICC, trying to spectators, and make sure a decision on June 17 [when Champions League last-16 highlighting Turkey’s infra- ferent strains of it from time understand, consulting with that’s iron clad.” the executive committee ties still need to be played, structure and record against and cricket-related representatives of CWI and to time or do we have to live experts to understand what’s The upcoming episode will meets].” while Atletico Madrid, Paris the pandemic. the England and Wales Cricket Board. with it long term? going on. And more so, the see a gala panel involving From the group stages on- St Germain, Atalanta and RB Ankara claims to have “These discussions involve the local and inter- “If that’s the case, then some questions that a lot of us Sangakkara, Suresh Raina, wards, each round of both Leipzig have already booked brought “under control” the of the changes that we have have in our minds have still Robin Uthappa & Irfan competitions until the final their places in the last eight. fatal virus which, according national logistics and protocols which are already seen in our lives now, may not been answered by the top Pathan, who will deliber- are held across two matches, ISTANBUL HOPES TO to official figures, has caused being put in place to minimize risk and optimize be the new normal for us for most experts in the world. ate on pressing issues in one being played at the home HOST ‘HISTORIC’ FINAL about 4,500 deaths among a few years until a vaccine is “Everyday, there are new the world of cricket during of each team. Although no date has been some 160,000 confirmed cases the health and safety of all concerned. CWI has found or until there’s enough learnings, new things being COVID-19 times. UEFA said: “A working announced for the resump- in the country. also received and reviewed detailed plans for players and staff to be kept in a bio-secure environment for the duration of the tour, with all matches being played behind closed doors,” ac- T20 World Cup at ‘high risk’ of being postponed cording to CWI. The next process will involve logistics, with Melbourne: Cricket Australia (CA) extra biosecurity measures that we and the other inbound tours for the Australia. is bracing for the very high risk of need to put in place to deliver the season. “There is no doubt the T20 World CWI’s management seeking approvals from var- the men’s Twenty20 World Cup be- season.” CA FACES FURTHER COST CUT- Cup is a big question and that’s a ious national governments of the Caribbean “to ing postponed and the resulting fi- CA released a draft schedule for TING factor of perhaps A$20 million and nancial hit during the coronavirus the southern summer that involves Meanwhile, Australian cricket ... it’s likely that our bio-security facilitate the movement of players and support pandemic. back-to-back T20 Inter national se- faces another round of cost-cutting measures we need to put in place to staff, using private charter planes and conducting Australia is scheduled to host the ries against the West Indies and to shore up finances hit by the coro- deliver the season will cost in the medical screenings and individual COVID-19 test- tournament in October and Novem- India in October, a Test match navirus shutdown and no part of order of A$10 million.” ber but with global travel restric- against Afghanistan at Perth from the game will be immune, Roberts Most CA staff remains furloughed ing for all members of the touring party.” tions in place it’s very doubtful the Nov 21, and the Tests against India warned. on 20 percent pay until the end of The ECB, meanwhile, is aiming to deliver “gold event will go ahead. And if it does, in Brisbane, Adelaide (Dec 11-15), CA has already furloughed about June, while the board’s executive its unlikely crowds will be allowed Melbourne (Dec 26-30) and Sydney 80 percent of its workforce, while team has taken a 20 percent pay-cut. standard” bio-secure environments for interna- in stadiums because of social dis- (Jan 3-7). state associations have also made Roberts’ leadership amid the pan- tional cricket to take place in this summer. Al- tancing requirements. The Australians regained top spot deep staff cuts in recent weeks. demic has been slammed by former “We have been hopeful all along from India in the last International CA’s financial outlook has im- players and media pundits, who though government go-ahead for international that it could be staged in Octo- Cricket Council rankings released proved with India’s tour, worth have accused him of exaggerating cricket in England and Wales is yet to be obtained, ber-November but you would have before sport was shuttered globally an estimated A$300 million ($200 the game’s financial problems. Steve Elworthy - the man responsible for de- to say there’s a very high risk about in the pandemic. million) in revenue to CA, set to go However, Roberts said further the prospect of that happening,” India are scheduled to stay for a antine requirements are in place at ahead in the home summer. cuts were necessary to maintain in- livering the plans - confirmed that nearly every Cricket Australia chief executive three-game One-day International the time. But Roberts said the board was vestment in community cricket as other aspect of the ECB’s preparations are at an Kevin Roberts said on Friday. series on Jan 12, 15 and 17 before the “It may be that circumstances still facing an A$80 million shortfall much as possible. Roberts is more confident about Australians take on New Zealand in dictate that when the time comes due to Covid-19. “We’ve made a commitment to advanced stage and they remain confident that the lucrative four-Test series three one-day games and a T20 from maybe we can only use one or two “So were focused on delivering significantly reduce the cost base the West Indies will arrive in the UK on June 9 in against India going ahead, starting Jan 26 to Feb 2. venues, we really don’t know any of the best season as possible noting of Cricket Australia, unfortunately at the Gabba in Brisbane on Dec 3. The schedule depends on state that yet,” Roberts said. “There are that the likelihood of significant that means no area of the organi- preparation for a three-match Test series begin- “But while that would deliver much borders being open and the provi- endless scenarios and possibilities crowds is very slim,” he said. “Ordi- sation will be untouched,” he said. ning in July. needed broadcast revenue, it would sion for visiting foreign teams to [but] were very optimistic that we narily that would deliver well over “It’s unfortunate that there will be also come at a cost of millions for fulfill whatever isolation or quar- will be able to stage the Indian tour A$50 million in revenue to Cricket an impact on our people.”