CMYK

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CMYK

CMYK

SATURDAY 08 March | 2014 | 05 Jamadi-Ul-Awal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 | VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 67 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)Pen For JusticeLargely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&Khttp://www.zabarwantimes.com

Civic Action ProgrammePunchok flags off Bharat Darshan tour of CD volunteers

DEO Ganderbal briefs Media andPolitical Party representatives See More On Page 06

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WEATHER

TEMPERATUREMAXIMUM MINIMUM

SUNSET ON(SATURDAY)SUNRISE ON (SUNDAY) 06:51 AM

06:33PM 0.0 0C 12.90C

FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

Light Rain/Snow would occur at a few places over the state.

Partly cloudy sky. Maximum &Minimum temperatures will be around 11°C & 2°C respectively.

Inside story

On Edit Page

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Woman dies of gas leakage

Executive Committeemeeting of MMJHS held

Sincere efforts needed to cement Indo-Pak relations

See More On Page 06

Loots Kiwi Cricket FairAcquires 7th position in ICC ranking

Soldier injured in landmine blast in

Keran sector

Despite Pakistan’s indecisive-ness over declaration of India as most favored nation for trade and commerce, resumption of trade activities from both Chikendabad- Rawalakot and Salambad-Chokoti has eased the tense situation which had developed between the two countries for the last over a year. It is not the question of earning some bucks or sending some trade items across the line of control but it is the question of creating an atmosphere which in

JAMMU, MARCH 07:The 22nd meeting of Executive Committee of Mubarak Mandi Jammu Her-itage Society (MMJHS) was held here today with the Minister for Tourism Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who is also the Chairman of the Committee, in the chair.The Minister reviewed the func-tioning of renovation and repairs

Srinagar, Mar 7: The Congress high command has decided to field its candidates from only three out of six parliamentary constituencies—Udhampur, Jammu and Ladakh, while as rest of the three Lok Sabha seats in valley have been ap-portioned to National Confer-ence.Well placed sources revealed to KNS, that a high level meeting in Delhi chaired by AICC president Sonia Gand-hi reached to a seat sharing agreement with its coalition partner in the state wherein the Congress has decided to contest from only three seats and has dropped its claim on one of the three Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir valley. Ear-lier the Pradesh Congress Committee was adamant on contesting from one of the

three Lok Sabha seats of the valley besides retaining the three seats of Jammu includ-ing Ladakh.Prof Saif-u-Din Soz, president Pradesh Congress Committee confirmed to KNS on phone from Delhi that the Congress

high command has accepted a seat sharing agreement with the National Conference on equal terms. “Our High Com-mand has agreed to

See NC On Page 11..this in a high level meeting that was chaired by Madam

Congress reaches seat sharing agreement with NC

To field its candidates from 3 Lok Sabha constituencies including Ladakh Jammu, Mar 7: Describing ensuing elections as clash of ideologies and battle between secular and commu-nal forces, Chief Minister Omar Ab-dullah on Friday exuded confidence about the victory at the strength of his party’s commitment to public service and time tested secular cre-dentials.According to a statement issued by NC to KNS, Omar said: “This is an opportunity for people to make a discernible choice between com-munal and secular forces.” He was addressing the party functionaries including sitting and former legis-lators from the Jammu division at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhavan here this afternoon. Omar said that these will be also endorsement of the people to polices, programmes and perfor-mance of the government during over past five years”.Omar Abdullah said that National Conference rank and file has been pressed into election gear across the State, with workers stepping up their mass contact campaign”, he

said, adding that the performance of his government has been inspiring and innovative, especially with re-spect to empowering people through Panchayat Raj Institutions, taking governance at grass roots level and making administration account-able and responsive

See Omar On Page 11..

Omar blows election bigul; terms LS polls a

battle of ideologies

Srinagar, March 7, : Peaceful pro-tests were at different places of Kash-mir Valley against the expulsion of Kashmiri students from Meerut Uni-versity. However, at various places situation turned ugly after protestors clashed with police. Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani had appealed people to protest against the Univer-sity decision after Friday prayers. Jammu and Kashmir Liberation had already declared that it will orga-nize a protest rally in City-centre Lal Chowk. Reports said that a protest rally was taken out from Maisuma locali-ty in Srinagar that was led by Chair-man Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Muhammad Yasin Malik. Amid slogans like ‘Go India Go Back’, the protestors tried to march toward city centre Lal Chowk. However, police in-tercepted the protestors and detained Muhammad Yasin Malik and others. Shortly before his arrest, Malik cas-tigated India for harassing Kashmiri students in every part of the country and said that Government of India must ensure the safety of Kashmiri students all across India. “British ruled over India for more

than 100 years but they never ha-rassed and thrashed Indian students who pursued their studies in London. In India Kashmiri students are being harassed day in and day out which is unacceptable,” he said adding that there will be a day when India will pack its bags from Kashmir. In Kashmir University and Gov-ernment Medical College Srinagar,

scores of protestors staged peaceful demonstration against the slapping of charges and the treatment given to Kashmiri students by University ad-ministration. In South Kashmir’s Anantnag town, a peaceful protest was staged soon af-ter Friday prayers. The protest rally was led by Mirwaiz

See Protest On Page 11..

Expulsion of Kashmir Students

Protests and clashes in Kashmir

Srinagar, Mar 7: Slamming Kash-mir’s separatist leader for ‘polit-icizing’ the issue of suspension of 67 Kashmiri students from Meerut varsity, one of the three interlocutors on Kashmir Radha Kumar Friday stated that the sep-aratists are ruining the careers of the students.Radha told KNS over phone that overreaction is being shown by the separatists at large and that they must ask themselves some very serious questions before ‘po-liticizing’ the issue. “What they want at the See Kumar On Page 11..

Separatists adding fuel to Fire: Radha Kumar

Srinagar, Mar 7: The authori-ties at Meerut including Police and university officials have ex-pressed their desire for the early return of the suspended Kash-miri students, said Junaid Ma-too, a youth leader of National Conference who was deputed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to Meerut on March 6.Matoo told KNS over phone from Meerut that he had series of meetings with the senior govern-ment officials at Meerut and that the matter See Students On Page 11..

‘Students will soon resume their classes’ Srinagar, March 7: The

one-man commission setup by state govern-ment to probe the kill-ings of four civilians in Gagrin, Shopian allegedly by CRPF per-sonnel has impressed upon the Superinten-dent of Police Shopian to depute a police offi-cer to Chandigarh to collect the expert opin-ion from Central Foren-sic Science Laboratory (CFSL) Chandigarh.Retired Justice M.L.Koul heading the one-man commission told Srinagar based news gathering agency CNS that on perusal of the record it is found that the FSL report has not so far been filed by the respondents and it is impressed upon them to see that it is collect-ed and filed before the Commission.

He said that the Chief Prosecuting Officer (CPO) representing the Civil Administration stated before the Com-mission that that the mobile phones (of the slain youth) have been sent by police in Decem-ber 2013 to Chandigarh to get the expert opin-ion about these phones. He said that inquiry is getting delayed as the expert opinion has not been collected so far. “It is impressed upon the SP Shopian that he should depute one po-lice officer namely In-spector Jan Muzaffar who is connected with the investigation to Chandigarh to collect the expert opinion from CFSL Chandigarh. Also, the mobile phones which have been sent for expertSee Lack On Page 11..

Probe into Shopian killings

Lack of expert opinion delaying inquiry

One-man Commission directs Police to seek details from Chandigarh

We have initiated action: District administration

Srinagar, Mar 7: Tak-ing strong note of the reported transfers in Directorate of School Education Kashmir, the district election officer Friday ordered that the transfers must be kept in abeyance in view of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the forthcom-ing parliamentary polls.KNS learnt from the reliable sources that more than 40 transfers of teaching staff in Sri-nagar were ordered by Director School Edu-cation Kashmir in the recent past, bypassing the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Pertinently, during the imposition of

Code of Conduct, the au-thorities are not permit-ted to order any trans-fers and postings in their respective departments.A senior officer in the district administration confirmed the reports informing KNS that ac-tion in this regard has been initiated. “We have also received complaints about the transfers in vi-olation of the model code of conduct,” said the offi-cer adding that keeping in view the sanctity of elections the CEO Sri-nagar has been ordered by the District Election Officer to keep all such transfers in abeyance. The officer stated fur-ther that nobody will be allowed to violate model code of conduct and the same must

See Code On Page 11..

Code of Conduct violated by Directorate of Education

Jammu, March 7: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Umang Narula Friday asked political parties to abide by the model code of conduct of the Elec-tion Commission of India (ECI) during the 5-phase Lok Sabha Elections in the State.Mr Narula requested rep-resentatives of political parties to co-operate with the officials and strict-ly adhere to guidelines of ECI regarding poll expenditure, publicity, Election Manifesto, cam-paigning etc at the meet-ing of all political parties convened here.He said that the Commis-sion has made elaborate arrangements for ensur-ing effective implemen-

tation of the MCC Guide-lines and re-emphasised that the instructions issued in this regard should be read and un-derstood by all Political Parties, contesting can-didates and their agents/representatives, to avoid any misgivings or lack of information or under-standing/interpretation.He said that Expenditure Observers would keep a close watch on election expenditure of the candi-dates and to ensure that no inducement is offered to the electors during the entire election process for exercise of their fran-chise.He further said that the political See Narula On Page 11..

Narula chairs meeting of all political parties

Emphasises on adhering to Model code of conduct for free & fair elections Srinagar, March 7: State

Road Transport Corpora-tion (SRTC) in its reply to an applicant under Right to In-formation Act has revealed that no proper advertise-ment was issued by the Cor-poration for the filling up of the posts of Apprentice en-gineers during the National Conference Government in

1996-97. According to CNS, in reply to the information sought by an RTI activist, Junaid Nazir of Shaheed Gunj Sri-nagar, SRTC has revealed that in order to recruit ap-prentice engineers and oth-er officers in the Corpora-tion

See RTI On Page 11..

SRTC response to Information sought under RTI

Appointments made without issuing advertisement

Srinagar, March 7: Police Friday arrested two Mobile phone lifters in SMHS Hos-pital Srinagar and recovered many stolen phones from them, besides, penalized about 100 offenders smoking

in the hospital premises. Police sources told CNS that Karan Nagar police received numerous com-plaints regarding theft of mobile phones

See Police On Page 11..

Police apprehends Mobile Phone lifters

100 smoking offenders penalized

Srinagar, March 07: (GNS) A woman on Friday was found dead while her husband was found unconscious in an apparent case of gas leakage in Sopore town of Baramulla district in north Kashmir.Official sources told GNS that Shameema was found dead at her house in Zaloora, Sopore while her husband Reyaz Ah-mad was found unconscious by their neighbours this morning. The locals removed Reyaz to the

See Woman On Page 11..

Srinagar, March 07: (GNS) An army man was critically injured in a landmine blast in Keran sector of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, official sources told GNS Friday.Hawaldar Pawan Bishen of 23 Grenadiers along with his colleagues was patrolling the mountain ridges near Balbir Post in Keran

See Soldier On Page 11..

11 Srinagar, Saturday 08 March 2014 Zabarwan Times

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

NC Students

Protest

Woman

Soldier

Lack

Code

Narula

RTI

Police

Omar

Kumar

Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt. Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844

Sonia Ji. We will announce our candidates for the three Lok Sabha seats including Ladakh very soon,” Prof Soz told KNS from Delhi. Meanwhile, the Congress has almost decided to nom-inate Madan Lal Sharma from Jammu and Choudhry Lal Singh from Udhampur.Pertinently, National Conference has already an-nounced its candidates for the three parliamentary constituencies of Kashmir valley—Dr Farooq Ab-dulla from Srinagar, Mehbooba Beig from Anantnag and Sahreef-u-Din Shariq from Baramulla. Present-ly, these three party leaders represent these constit-uencies in parliament. (KNS)

by introducing Right to Information and Public Services Guarantee legislations. Therefore, he maintained that each vote would be endorsement of the people friendly and progressive programmes and initiatives undertaken by his government for the inclusive development and implementation of welfare schemes in all the three regions during more than five years.The NC Working President said that people of Jammu and Kashmir have all along fought the communal, deceptive and disruptive elements and will do so in future as well. He said his party is committed to strengthen secular forces by iso-lating divisive and communal elements, who were posing a big threat to peace and harmony across the country. “We won’t allow them to vitiate the atmosphere by generating ill-will between com-munities for furthering their nefarious political agenda”, he declared.Spelling out the crucial role played by National Conference during most testing times in the his-tory, Mr Omar Abdullah recalled the sacrifices offered by its towering leaders and committed workers in upholding the special entity of the State and dignity of its people. He described work-ers as real strength of the party and hoped they will carry forward the mission chartered by Sher-e-Kashmir to make Jammu and Kashmir a pros-perous, peaceful and forward looking State. He made a mention of path breaking decisions taken in this regard by successive NC governments and the present dispensation and assured that this odyssey will continue with renewed vigour and confidence.Speaking on the occasion, Provincial President Devender Singh Rana assured the high command that party rank and file is fully prepared to take the ensuing democratic exercise to its logical con-clusion.“While being confident about registering massive win in Jammu and Kashmir, the party is looking forward to ensure that the victory comes with a big margin”, he said while eulogizing the per-formance of the government under the towering stewardship of Mr Omar Abdullah. He said the report card of Omar led coalition government has been enviable and the performance in various sec-tors of development appreciable. “This momen-tum has to be maintained to assuage the urges and aspirations of the people in all the three regions and their sub-regions”, he maintained.Various speakers assured the Chief Minister that they will go all out to ensure the victory of all the six candidates contesting the parliamentary elec-tions. Those who addressed the meeting included senior party leaders, Minister for Planning and Development Mr Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, MLAs Mr Surjeet Singh Slathia, Kr Rachpal Singh and Mr Aijaz Jan besides Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Shah Bukhari, Mr Abdul Gani Malik, Mr Khalid Najeeb Suharwardhy, Mr Ajayshatru Singh, Choudhry Talib Hussain and Mirza Abdul Rasheed. The meeting discussed election related issues and took several decisions to gear up the party at all the levels.Present in the meeting were the legislators Dr. Shenaz Ganai and Bimla Luthra besides Rattan Lal Gupta, Th. Kashmira Singh, Babu Ram Pal, Brij Mohan Sharma, Mrs. Vijay Lakshmi Dutta, Jugal Mahajan, Gurdeep Singh Sassan, Surinder Singh Bunty, District Presidents, District Secre-taries, contested candidates and senior function-aries of various wings of National Conference. (KNS)

end of the day through highlighting this issue. They must strive to keep people together rather that indulging into the acts of segregation. They are undoubtedly adding fuel to the fire. ”Reacting to the statement of Chairman Huriyat Conference (M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Radha stated that the assessment of the ground situa-tion is must before the issuance of any political statement. Mirwaiz had sought the help of OIC and other Muslim countries of South Asia for pro-viding admissions to the Kashmiri students- we must analyze the security situation in the Mus-lim world at present, she said, adding that the sit-uation is unnecessarily being generalized.“See how many students from Kashmir are study-ing in other Indian states – around ten thousand and only some 50 incidents of this kind have hap-pened- You cannot claim that no student from Kashmir is safe in other Indian states.”Radha Kumar said that the need of the hour is that the Vice chancellor must resign or be sacked for filing FIR against the students at Meerut. “He could have amicably resolved the issue by coun-seling the students but contrary to this, he regis-tered case against them at Police station and sus-pended them.”She added that cheering for any particular play-er is no sin and that the same was unfortunately

painted with different color. “Reportedly the stu-dents cheered for Afridi- I too cheer for Afridi- I like him- he is not communal but a professional cricketer.” (KNS)

has been amicably sorted out. “Now only the mo-dalities are being discussed that when the stu-dents shall resume their classes in the universi-ty.”Matoo stated that he held a detailed meeting with the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the University in presence of the resident commissioner Mr. Agar-wal and that the response of VC over the issue of safe return of suspended students to varsity was ‘positive.’ “I also held meetings with the senior civil and police authorities overt the issue includ-ing Divisional Commissioner, DIG and SSP- the administration has also assured that it is hopeful that the students will resume their studies at the earliest.” He added that during his meeting with the VC of the university, it was assured that all necessary arrangements shall be made for the security of the suspended students. ”In a very near future it can be stated that when will the students resume

South Kashmir Qazi Yasir. Police however, did not allow protestors to proceed towards the main town. In Baramulla, protestors clashed with police while the police exercised maximum restrain and did not use force. Stone-pelting incidents were also reported from Gagrin Shopian and Ha-jin Sumbal. A police official told CNS that scores of protes-tors resorted to stone pelting as soon as separat-ist leaders including Shabir Ahmad Shah, Nay-eem Ahmad Khan and Mushtaq-ul-Islam entered into Hajin town. When police tried to stop these leaders from moving ahead, the protestors amid pro-freedom slogans pelted stones on the police. A police official said that situation throughout the valley remained peaceful. However, stray in-cidents of stone pelting were reported from Ga-rage Ganderbal, Naidkhai, Hajjan in Sumbal, Ce-ment bridge Baramulla and Gagran Shopian this afternoon. No one was hurt. (CNS)

opinion are brought back immediately with the opinion of the concerned authority,” Justice Koul told CNS. He further said that one petitioner Adil Wachkoo has submitted two Photostat copies of the medical opinion and therefore two doctors who had issued these certificates and reports are required to be examined by the Commission and cross-exam-ined by the opposite side. “The Commission has directed both the doctors as well as Adil Wachkoo to appear before the Commission on March 10 this month in Circuit House, Shopian to record their statements,” Koul said. He said that the Counsel for Central Reserve Po-lice Force (CRPF) has already appeared before the Commission while one of the petitioner Ghulam Nabi Mir did not record his statement on account of his poor health. (CNS)

be obeyed in letter and spirit.However, director school education, Mir Tariq Ali, told KNS that the orders were issued prior to the enforcement of code of conduct. “All the orders issued have been passed priori to code of conduct and there has been no violations of this election commission guidelines,” the director school education added. (KNS)

parties for any kind of publicity during the elec-tions including advertisements in the form of posters, TV Ads, Paper Ads etc will all require a prior certification. He said Commission has cre-ated Media Certification and Monitoring Commit-tees to deal with any Paid News and other media related violations, besides carrying out the exist-ing provisions of pre-certification of political ad-vertisements.Mr Narula said that to facilitate the voters the Commission has directed that Voter Slip along with Photo will be distributed to all enrolled voters by the DEO. These Voter Slips will also be accepted as identity proof of voters at Polling Stations. He said that all electoral rolls will be ex-hibited at the polling stations on 9th March for ad-dition of any left out voters to the list. He asked for co-operation of all political parties for conduct of a free and fair election process in the State. (KNS)

in 1996-97, no proper advertisement was issued by the Corporation and the whole task was done with the Corporation after obtaining approval of the then Minister for transport who also hap-pened to be the Chairman SRTC. In response to a question whether JKSRTS has authority to recruit the engineers by itself with-out referring the posts to Service Selection Board, the Corporation has maintained that the posts in Government Department are only referred to SSRB whereas Corporation engaged as per their Recruitment Regulations with the approval of Chairman. (CNS)

of many patients and their attendants in the premises of SMHS Hospital. Police after regis-tering case FIR numbers 7/2014 and 8/2014 under section 379/RPC started the investigation.

A police team led by SHO Karan Nagar, Mu-hammad Issaq arrested two suspects Showkat Ahmad Jogi son of Majid Jogi resident of Bemina and Saaqib Rafiq Bhat son of Mohammad Rafiq resident of Pampore. During their questioning, the duo confessed their involvement in stealing of many mobile phones in the hospital. On their instances Karan Nagar police recovered many mobile phones from them. Both the accused are in police custody. Meanwhile, Karan Nagar police also launched a drive against smoking in Hospital premises and recovered fine of Rs. 4630 from the offend-ers. About 100 offenders have been penalized for smoking in the hospital. General public especially patients and their attendants have hailed the efforts of the police. (CNS)

nearby hospital for treatment. However, he was later referred to SKIMS, Soura for further treat-ment.Police said that gas leakage was believed to have caused the death of the woman. (GNS)

sector on Thursday evening when he stepped over a landmine laid by army to prevent infiltra-tion, exploded with a bang. The soldier received serious injuries in the explosion. He was airlift-ed to army’s 92 base hospital at Badami Bagh, Srinagar for specialized treatment. His condition is said to be critical.(GNS)

Office of the Regional Transport Officer Kashmir

NOTICEWhereas a joint ap-plication has been received from Shri Jasam Khan S/O Abdul Majeed Khan R/O Nigeen Hazratbal Srinagar (as Transferor) and

Ghulam Hassan Khawana S/o Lal Mohd R/o Gund Kha-lid Sumbal A/P opposite WBS Batamaloo SGR (as Trans-feree) for transfer of Big Bus carriage route permit No: 787/KPS/WA covering Vehicle No. JK01L-6611. Now, therefore, it is notified for general infor-mation that objections, if any to the proposed transfer of the said route permit/vehicle shall be filled writing in the Office of the Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir within a period of 12 days from the date of publication of this notice.NO: JKRTOK-10368 Dated: 06/3/2014

Sd/- Regional Transport Officer

Kashmir

Govt of Jammu & Kashmir

Office of the Executive Engineer Water Management Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA). Safapora

e-tendering E-NIT NO: - 08 OF 2013-14 DATED:- 04/03/2014

For and on behalf of the Governor Jammu & Kashmir State, e-tenders are invited from approved and eligible contractors registered with J&K State Govt./Central Govt. Organizations for the fol-lowing works:- Near village Saderkote Payeen, District Bandipora.

S.No Name of work ADV. COST (Rs. in Lacs)

EARNEST MONEY {Rs. in Lacs)

CLASS OF CONTRACTOR

COST OF TEN-DER DOCU-MENT

T1ME OF COMPLETION

RECEIVING/ OPENING AUTHORITY.

1 Increasing the water holding capacity of wullar lake by way of excavation in plantation area from RD 0-50 (50Mtr X 250Mtr) (Block No:-20)

180.00 3.60 lacs "Aay" & above Rs. 4000/- 60 days CED WUCMA

2 increasing the water holding capacity of wullar lake by way of excavation in plantation area from RD 50-100 (50Mtr X 250Mtr) (Block-No:-21)

180.00 3.60 lacs "Aa/' & above Rs. 4000/- 60 days CED WUCMA

3 Increasing the water holding capacity of wullar lake by way of excavation in plantation area from RD 100-150 (50MtrX250Mtr) (Block No:-22)

180.00 3.60 lacs "Aay"& above •Rs. 4000/- 60 days CED WUCMA .

4 Increasing the water holding capacity of wullar lake by way of excavation in plantation area from RD 150-200 (50Mtr X 250Mtr) (Block No:-23)

180.00 3.60 lacs "Aay" & above Rs. 4000/- 60 days CED WUCMA

The NIT consisting of qualifying information, eligibility criteria, specifications, bill of quantities, (B.O.Q) set of Terms and conditions of contract and other details can be seen/download from the departmental: Website:-www.jktenders.gov.inPosition of funds: Demanded

Publishing date: 04-03-2014

Download date start: 06-03-2014 from 9:00 AM

Bid submission date start: 06-03-2014 from 3:00 PM

Bid submission date end: 13-03-2014 upto 6:00 PM

Date of submission of hard copies: 14-03-2014 upto 4:00 PM

Date of opening of Technical Bid/Financial Bid 15-03-2014 from 11:00 AM

1.The bids shall be- deposited in electronic format on the departmental website:-https://jktenders.gov.in2.The price bids uploaded on the website in time will be opened on 15-03-2014 at 11:00 AM in the office of the Addl. Pr. Chief Executive Director/Chief Executive Director Wullar Conservation and Management Authority WUCMA, Silk Factory Road Rajbagh. In case of public holiday on the date of opening of the bid, the same will be opened on the next working day at the same time and venue.3.Bids must accompany cost of tender document in the shape of demand draft in favour of Executive Engineer Water Management WUCMA, and earnest money in shape of CDR/FDR pledged to Executive Engineer Water Management WUCMA. The bids for the work shall remain valid for a period of 90 days from the date of opening of bids.4.In case the cost of lowest; bidder is found below the advertised amount the bidder has todeposit an additional security performance in the shape of CDR/FDR at the time of issuance ofaward of contracfjo £hp turj^al per below details:-1. Upto 10% below rate over advertised cost____________NIL2. Greater than 10% upto 20% below rate over advertised cost._______3% of advertised cost.3. Greater than 20% upto 30% below rate over advertised cost_______5% of advertised cost.4. Greater than 30% below rate over advertised cost_______5% of advertised cost & 5% of bankguarantee of advertised cost.05. Bidders are advised to download bid submission manual from the “Downloads” option as well as from “Bidders Manual Kit” on website jktenders.gov.in06. To participate in bidding process bidders have to get Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) as per information Technology Act Bidders can get Digital Certificate form approved vendor.07. The bidders have to submit their financial bids on line in electronic format with digital signature. No financial bid will be accepted in physical/hard form.08. Bids will be opened online as per time schedule mentioned above.09. Bidders must ensure to upload scanned copies of all necessary documents i.e Experience Certificate,( issued by an officer not below rank of an Executive Engineer/ equivalent rank)regard-ing successful completion of one/two individual work/works executed during last five years of the nature excavation of earth, river/lake/nallah bed material by mechanical means using hydraulic excavators to the magnitude of 30% or above in-aggregate of thei advertised cost, of individual work/block. Detail of Tools & Plants, CDR, PAN, TIN, DemandDraft, Registration Card and Hard copies of all these documents should also reach the office of the Coordinator Water Management WUCMA at Sheikh-ul-AIam Complex Silk Factory Road Ra-jbagh Srinagar on l’4-03-2014 upto 4:00 PM. No registered post/ courier will be accepted.10. The authority will not be responsible for any delay in online submission of the bid due to any reason.11. The authority shall not be held responsible for selection criteria/policy matter being adopted by the Directorate of Information regarding publishing the NIT, in any of the newspaper under circulation.12. All other terms and conditions shall remain same as per PWD form 25 (double leaf) and as per the detailed document.No:- 100-107/EEWM/WUCMA/2013-14. Dated:- 04-03-2013.

NB:3039 Sd/- Executive Engineer

Government of Jammu and KashmirOffice of the Assistant Commissioner Development BaramullaSubject: Appointment of candidates for the post of class IV (Rural Develop-mentDepartment) Reference: Director Rural Development Kashmir DRDK/Estt/4/Gnl/06/11/14590-600Dated 22.8.2013District Development Commissioner Baramulla DDCB/2310-13 Dated11.6.2013This office notification No. ACD/Estt/2009/Class lv/Rect/8701 dated

5 Sohail Ahmad Bagwan Nazir Ahmad Bagwan Budmulla Baramulla Mirab BDO Baramulla6 Syed Wasim Hussain Syed Zakir Hussain Bugna Noorkhah Boniyar Mirab BDO Baramulla7 Amandeep Sh Jankar Raj Jindlehar R S Pora Orderly BDO Rafiabad8 Sajad Hussain Chachi Mohd Rubani Chachi Masjid Angarn Wagoora Pit. Watcher BDOTangmargThe candidates shall report to Block

Government ofJammu & Kashmir OF-FICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGI-NEER R&B DIVISIONSHOPIANNOTICE INVITING TENDERSNIT No; Fresh /<%> /R&B/SPN e-TENDERINGDated: 02/2014For and on behalf of the Governor, J&K State, e-tenders (In single cover system) are invited on item rate basis from approved and eligible Contractors registered with J&K State Govt., CPWD, Railways and other State/Centra Govern-ments for the following works:-

Office of the Executive Engineer Water Management

Wullar Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA)

(Sheikh-ul-Alam Complex Silk Factory Road, Rajbagh, Srinagar)Corrigendum

Refer this office NIT No:09 of 2013 Dt: 04-03-2014, in this regard kindly read date of submission of hard copies as 10-03-2014 upto 4:00 PM instead of 11-03-2014 upto 6:00 PM.All the terms & conditions shall remain same.

DIPK-NB: 3063 Sd/- Executive Engineer, Water Management

OFFICE OF THE ZONAL EDUCA-TION OFFICER WAGOORASub: filling.up of Regular Vacancies of Teachers in Socially and educationally Backward Areas. (RBA) on the pattei . of ReT Scheme.Ref: - Govt. Order No. 635-Edu of 2010, dated 04-08-2010 issued by secretary education department vide order No. Edu-01/1 15/2010, dated 04-08-2010 and circular issued by DSEK vide No. Estt/111/66/1794, dated 07-10-2010 on the subject read with SRO-S22, dated: 08-05-2013.& CEO Bla's approval No: .ptfjf.^1 lUi&i ~o//~/ $"^2-X^

BARAMULLA, MARCH 07: As per the notification issued by the Election Commission of India, the election schedule has been issued for Baramulla Parlia-mentary Constituency. Around 5,65,897 voters will have right to exercise their vote. The notifi-cation for conduct of polls will be issued on April 12 and last date for filling of nomination will be April 19, 2014. This was stated in a press conference today by District Election Officer, Baramulla, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone who is also the Deputy Commis-sioner. He said that scrutiny of the nomination will be April 23 and the polling would be con-duct on 7th May, 2014 while the counting of votes would be held on May 06, 2014. He said that the District Baramulla comprises of seven Assembly segments. District Election officer said as per the exercise 333 poll-ing stations have been identi-fied as hyper sensitive out of the total 822 polling stations, which would be set up across the District at 725 different loca-

tions. He said that minimum ba-sic facilities are being ensured at all the polling stations, which includes drinking water, toilets and ramps etc. He said in the press conference around 5,65,897 voters exercising their voting right in the district including 2,97,981 males and 2,67,916 fe-male electors. On the occasion the Dis-trict Election Officer said that District Election Control Room has been established with con-tact No. 01952-237110 and Me-dia Centre has also been es-tablished with the contact Nos 01952-236912 and 01952236512. He said the deployment of the security forces will be as per requirement to maintain law and order and to ensure free & fair elections. DEO said that BLOs have been directed to hold special camps at each poll-ing station on 9th March, 2014 to create awareness among voters .They also been directed to display the electoral rolls at each polling station, so that the left out electors are enrolled. On the occasion, District Election Officer appeal to the

electors to visit the polling sta-tions to check their names in the rolls so the leftover eligible electors can get their names in-cluded by filling Form-6 which will be available at all polling stations. District Election Officer said that Model Code of Con-duct has come into force with effect from 5th March 2014 and shall be strictly implemented in the District. For this pur-pose, one District level, two Sub Divisional level and Seven Tehsil level Monitoring Com-mittee have been constituted. He said for expenditure mon-itoring cell with seven Expen-diture Observers, seven Video Surveillance Teams, seven Video Viewing Teams seven accountant teams, 21 flying squads and twenty one static surveillance teams have been constituted. He said in order to check “Paid News” during elections i.e advertisements in grab of news in media and related matters a District level Media Certification and Moni-toring Committee has also been constituted for this purpose.

Special camps to be organized 9th March at Bla

Srinagar, March 07: A police-man was critically injured Fri-day during clashes in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, 20 kms from summer capital Srinagar.Reports reaching GNS said that soon after the Friday prayers, the relatives of a woman, who was allegedly murdered by her in-laws. Nilofar Jan, wife of Bashir Ah-

mad Wani of Kangan died at the SKIMS Soura on Tuesday morn-ing due to the alleged poisoning by her in laws at her house on Monday evening, this week.Reports said that people in Graag took to streets and held protests against the 'murder'. They demanded that the cul-prits be arrested without any delay. The protesters blocked the Srinagar-Leh highway after

which police resorted to force to disperse the protesters which led to clashes in the area. "During the clashes, a police-man was injured seriously after a stone hit his head," sources said, adding, he was referred to Sher-i-Kashmir Medical Sci-ences.The cop was identified as Reyaz Ahmad (belt number 452/G) and he received 12 stitch-es. (GNS)

Policeman hurt during protests over woman’s death

Srinagar, March 7, : Violent clashes erupted in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal town after pro-testors who were demanding a case to be reg-istered against ‘murder’ husband for forcing his wife to end her life a few days before blocked Srinagar-Leh road for hours. As reported earlier by CNS, Neelofar Bano wife of Shabir Ahmed resident of Preng Kan-gan breathed her last at SKIMS after she al-legedly consumed poison. Protestors had demanded that murder case be registered against the husband of the deceased woman. Reports said that soon after Friday prayers, hundreds of people from Preng area blocked the road and amid anti-police slogans de-mands immediate murder case to be regis-tered against the husband of the de-ceased woman. Protestors resorted to stone-pelting after police charged them with canes. The pro-testors attacked po-lice vehicle which left a policeman Reyaz Ahmed in-jured. Police bursted dozens of tear smoke shells to disperse the protestors. Eyewit-nesses told CNS that violent protestors clashed with police for hours as a result peo-ple faced lot of incon-venience due to traffic blockade. (CNS)

Death of Woman:Policeman injured

during clashes

SATURDAY, MARCH | 08 | 2014Daily ZABARWAN TIMES NEWS

Your internal fire may be feeling a bit smothered by a fierce reality check today, Libra. Give people the benefit of the doubt. They are more perceptive than you may think. In fact, it may behoove you to get some honest feedback today from some people you trust. It could be difficult for you to sort out the truth in your present situation, since you’re the one caught in the middle of the maelstrom.

Careful planning on your part is starting to pay off, Scorpio, but be careful that you don’t alienate others in your quest to be the best. You may not realize how your harsh words affect the people around you. Be more sensitive to the feelings of others. Focus and be brave in your actions. Hesitation may cause you to lose control of the situation. Know your boundaries, but push beyond them.

A little foreign culture could be the thing you need right now to spice things up a bit. It could be that you aren’t feeling a very strong connection with the environment around you. You could be anxious to spread your wings and explore your freedom. Start small but think big. Get out of your rut and do more exploring on your own. There’s a sobering, disciplined feeling to the day that could help you think realistically about your situation .

Some days it may be hard for you to get motivated, Capri-corn, but if ever there were a day in which it was easier than others, this would be the day. You’ll find that your mind is quite attuned to the situation around you and that your sense of grounding is helping you manifest that which you wish to bring to life. There’s a sense of time restriction and limitation to the day that is prodding you to act now.

You may feel a bit of restriction working to hold you back from your current plans today, Aquarius. It could be that your mind is feeling restless and that you’re anxious to go, but there’s a feel-ing of discipline and caution nagging you and urging you to slow down. This might not be a bad idea. Discipline and willpower may be exactly the things you need in order to get where you’re going.

You’ll find that a sensitive mind that’s open to every-thing and every possibility is exactly the thing you need at this time in order to be successful in reaching all the goals you’re working toward, Pisces. You’ll find that your sense of duty and need for plans and solid goals are key el-ements for getting to where you need to be. Gather infor-mation and create a plan of attack that is well thought out.

Things that require restriction and discipline on your part may be causing tension and opposition in your world today, Virgo. The good news is that your mind is clear and you should feel in tune with the people around you. Know your allies and take care of them. Remind others of how much they mean to you. The most important aspects of your life are your friends and family, so treat them with uncondi-tional love.

Today is a good day to be receptive to other people’s ener-gies, Aries. You’ll find that a sensitive attitude toward the people around you, combined with a bit of hard work and willingness to fulfill your responsibilities, will make for an unstoppable winning combination. Use this day to collect data and plan your goals. Take responsibility for your actions and don’t be afraid to admit your mistakes.

You’ll find that your mind is sharp and penetrating today, Taurus. Make sure you stay focused and organized. You have the power of discipline behind you that will help you mani-fest quite a bit on a day like today. Keep in mind that your openness to others and your incredible sensitivity are some of your greatest gifts. Use your power to create prosperity for yourself, but do it without hurting or manipulating others.

There is a rough stubbornness to the day that you may find hinders your progress, Gemini. There may be undercurrents of op-position that are slowly wearing away at your psyche. Make sure that you don’t fall into the trap of feeling guilt or regret. These are useless emotions that you simply can do without. If people are be-ing negative or unreasonable, simply walk away from the situation and find a better one.

There are forces working in your favor that you should be sure to latch onto and take advantage of, Cancer. You’ll find that your sense of duty and ability to plan are paying off in a very pos-itive way. You’ll find that you’re able to check quite a few things off your list today. Think before you act and take a time-out to rest and regroup if you need to.

Missed connections and unfortunate misunderstandings will happen less frequently if you slow down and focus. Re-member that you can do things yourself, Leo. Don’t feel like you absolutely need approval from others before tackling the projects that you wish to complete. Your mind is urging you to take the initiative today, so feel free to do so. Just make sure you aren’t too hasty in your actions.

GANDERBAL, MARCH 07: Deputy Commissioner Gander-bal, Mr. Sarmad Hafeez who is also the District Election Offi-cer Ganderbal Friday said elec-tions for the Lok Sabha have been announced by the Elec-tion Commission of India and the schedule of elections for the Parliamentary Constituency No. 2, consisting of 3 districts –Sri-nagar, Ganderbal and Budgam has been issued.

The District Election Officer was addressing a press conference here today.Mr. Hafeez said according to the schedule the notification for fill-ing the nominations of election will be issued on April 02, last date of filling of nominations is April 09, scrutiny of nomina-tions will take place on April 10, the last date of withdrawal of candidature is April 12 and the day of polling of this con-

stituency is April 30.Mr. Sarmad Hafeez said 202 polling stations have been made available at 158 locations for the Lok Sabha Election 2014 in district Gan-derbal. He further said that en-

rolment of eligible voters is still going on and EPIC cards have been issued to approximately 80% of registered eligible voters. He said district Ganderbal has 95% Photo Electoral roll which

is highest in the Valley. He also briefed that elaborate plan with respect to manpower manage-ment , transport management, security management , imple-mentation of Model Code of Conduct, expenditure monitor-ing and Systematic Voters Edu-cation and Electoral Participa-tion (SVEEP) has been charted out and put in place for system-atic hassle free, smooth and transparent conduct of Parlia-mentary elections. In addition Basic Minimum Facilities (BMF )like drinking water, toilet facil-ity, electricity , Ramp etc. have been made available at all poll-ing stations in the district.

Mr. Sarmad Hafeez said that 9th March 2014 has been se-lected as the special campaign day by Election Commission of India and thus he appealed the eligible voters to get themselves registered at respective polling

booths on 9th March, in case they have been left out by any error. He said Booth Level Of-ficers (BLOs) will be available with voter lists at all polling station of district Ganderbal on the same day.On the sidelines of conference District Election Officer held a meeting with the representatives of all Politi-cal Parties and informed them about the important aspects of election viz. expenditure moni-toring, media monitoring and Model Code of Conduct. The aim was to inform the party representatives about the im-portant aspects related to Elec-tion and to seek their support for an effective electoral pro-cess, at district level. Mr. Sar-mad Hafez directed the officers related to the election process to strictly adhere to the direc-tions issued by the Election Commission of India.

BARAMULLA, MARCH 07:

After assuming the charge of

North Kashmir Range, DIG, Mr. Gh-ulam Hassan Bhat in his first inter-action with the senior supervisory

officers here today, stressed for better policing and public liaison. Mr. Bhat had a brief interaction

with the police officers, including Superintendents of Police, Addi-tional Superintendents of Police

and Sub-Divisional Police Officers of North Kashmir Range. During the interaction, Mr Bhat took stock

of the overall situation in the Range including, law and order, security, crime and election preparedness.

SRINAGAR, MARCH 07: According to Electoral Registration Officer (ERO), Bandipora, Mr. S.A. Raina, special camps are being organized at all the Polling Stations of Bandipora district on March 09, 2014 for enrolment of left out voters. The eligible left out vot-ers shall approach to the concerned Booth Level Of-ficers (BLOs) at their respective Polling Stations on the same date. The requisite forms i.e. 6, 7, 8, 8A are available with the concerned BLOs.Similarly, all the Supervisory Officers, BLOs and Designated Officers will be available at all Polling Stations of 16-Kangan & 17-Ganderbal Assembly Constituencies of district Ganderbal on the said date from 11 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. alongwith concerned Voter Lists (Electoral Rolls) for inspection of general public and voters.As such all the voters of district Ganderbal are requested to vis-it their respective Polling Stations and verify their names in the Voter Lists he/she can fill up Form 6 which will be available at Polling Stations and get his/her name enrolled in the Electoral Roll on spot. The Booth Level Agents of all Political Parties, Sar-panchs, Panchs, Lambardars and Chowkidars are also directed to coordinate with BLOs to assist them to facilitate the voters.

Special Camps for left out voters on March 09 at Bandipora, Ganderbal,

Shopian, Baramulla, Pulwama

Bhat assumes as DIG North RangeInteracts with senior supervisory officers

DEO Ganderbal briefs Media and Political Party representatives

Civic Action ProgrammePunchok flags off Bharat Darshan

tour of CD volunteers

Executive Committee meeting of MMJHS held

SHRI AMARNATHJI YATRA, 2014Terms and conditions for setting-up Langars revised

JAMMU, MARCH 07: Inspector Gen-eral of Police (IGP), Home Guards, Civil Defence and State Disaster Response Force, Mr. T. Punchok today flagged off a group of Civil Defence volunteers for Bharat Darshan tour.The 10-days tour programme of 33 civil Defence Volunteers and staff members have been undertaken under Civic Action Programme. The volunteers hailing from all districts of Jammu and Kash-mir Provinces would visit Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Jaisalmair, Bi-kaner, Amritsar and Jammu. Giving the details, the IGP said that the aim of the programme is to provide opportuni-ties to the volunteers to study broader prospects of Civil Defence, besides in-teract with their counterparts in other states to have firsthand knowledge

about their working. He said that such programmes would help in bringing improvement in the working of SDRF and civil defence. He said that with the changing times, the functioning of the organization needs to be strengthened and the tour is one of the activities be-ing undertaken to in this direction.Mr. Phunchok stressed upon the volun-teers to avail the opportunity and get themselves acquainted with the tech-niques being adopted in these states. He asked them to act as ambassadors of the state and share their experi-ences with their counterparts during the visit. He lauded the role of Director General of Police, Mr. Ashok Prasad for his dedicated efforts and assistance for organizing such activities being under taken by the Organization.

JAMMU, MARCH 07:The 22nd meeting of Executive Committee of Mubarak Mandi Jammu

Heritage Society (MMJHS) was held here today with the Minister for Tour-ism Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who is also the Chairman of the Committee, in the chair.

The Minister reviewed the functioning of renovation and repairs works besides took stock of the pace of work of the new developmental projects taken up for construction during this year.

The meeting discussed shifting of HT/LT Lines, renovation of Central Courtyard (Dewan-e-Aam), Illumination of the Complex, development of alternative parking site and other issues.

The meeting also sought views of a Rajasthan based consultancy, which has expertise in restoration of historical monuments. It was decided that a team of Society Members would visit Rajasthan to get a first-hand appraisal at the historical monuments renovated by the agency.

Besides, Secretary Tourism Mr. Zafar Ahmad, Executive Director MMJHS, Mr. Soujanya Kumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, Mrs. Re-hana Batul, Consultant, Tourism Department K. A. Qadri, the Executive Members Prof. Zahur-ud-din, Sh. Narinder Singh Jamwal and Sh.Zafar Javid Ahmad Khan and other senior officers of Tourism Department and Heritage Society attended the meeting.

JAMMU, MARCH, 7: The Terms and Conditions for setting of Langars in the Yatra area have been revised to take care of various concerns including the maintenance of hygienic conditions in the Langar area, environmental protec-tion, non use of plastic materials etc. Several binding clauses in this regard have been incorporated in the revised terms and conditions.

Giving further details, Mr. Preet Pal Singh, IFoS, Additional Chief Ex-ecutive Officer, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, informed that the number of Langars have also been suitably revised keeping in view the recommendations made by National Disaster Manage-ment Authority (NDMA) and other Se-curity Agencies. In this regard a num-ber of representations received from various organisations including the SABLO, led by Mr Vijay Thakur, were considered in several rounds of discus-

sions with the CEO.Mr. Navin K. Choudhary, CEO, has

informed that while the number of Langars during Yatra 2014 will be less as compared to that in Yatra, 2013, in view of the recommendations made by expert bodies, rationalistaion has been achieved in a manner that all Langar organizations which are oth-erwise eligible, have set-up Langers in the past Yatras and do not have any dis-ciplinary proceedings pending against them, will be eligible to set up langars in Yatra 2014.Besides SABLO, led by Mr. Vijay Thakur, which held several rounds of discussions with CEO, the latter received representations on var-ied grounds from other Langer orga-nizations like SAYBO, led by Mr. Rajan Kapoor, and others in their individual capacities.

During his meetings with the Lan-gar organizations the CEO has im-

pressed on them to take all necessary measures to provide hygienic food, as per the approved Food Menu, to the Yatris. He has also cautioned Langer organizations not to use plastic materi-

als, which are banned in the J&K State. The SABLO representatives presented several constructive suggestions re-garding Yatra management which are being considered by the CEO.

DEO Anantnag directs for smooth conduct of LS electionsANANTNAG, MARCH 07: Arrangements for Lok Sabha Elections being held on 24th April,

2014 in Anantnag district were finalized today at a high level meeting under the chairman-ship of District Election Officer Anantnag.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, officers of security agen-cies, all Returning Officers, AEROs, Tehsildars and Block Development Officers.

The meeting was informed that all the arrangements are in place for smooth and peaceful conduct of elections which include preparation of Electoral Rolls, deputation of election staff and transport arrangements for the purpose.

District Election Officer categorically made it clear that the whole process of Lok Sabha polls shall have to be completed with great care and responsibility and every officer con-cerned shall have to adhere strictly to the directions of Election Commission of India. He said that the Information Centre has already been set up in the district. He said that all the BLOs shall remain available at polling stations on March 09, 2014 so that the left out persons would be registered for casting their vote.The Police authorities assured the meeting that fool proof security arrangements have been made to ensure peaceful elections in the district.

District Election Officer urged upon the concerned authorities to work in unison and make coordinated efforts for assuring a smooth atmosphere during conduct of Lok Sabha elections.

Daily Zabarwan TimesEDITORIAL/ OPINIONEDITORIAL/ OPINIONDaily Zabarwan TimesSrinagar, Saturday 08 March 2014

Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer

Sincere efforts needed to cement Indo-Pak relations

Despite Pakistan’s inde-cisiveness over decla-ration of India as most

favored nation for trade and commerce, resumption of trade activities from both Chikend-abad- Rawalakot and Salam-bad-Chokoti has eased the tense situation which had developed between the two countries for the last over a year. It is not the question of earning some bucks or sending some trade items across the line of control but it is the question of creating an atmosphere which in turn gen-erates people to people contact and gradually eliminates ill will against each other. It is because of this factor that the people with vision from both the sides stress on increased people to people contact which accord-ing to them will pave a way for addressing all outstanding is-sues between the two countries. When the two countries start-ed some confidence building measures a few years back no-body at that time believed that these will help in the creation of a friendly atmosphere and the people of the two countries will see a new era of cordiality unlike the past animosities which cost heavily on both the countries. There is no problem on earth which cannot be dealt and ad-dressed through negotiations and whose solution cannot be carved out while sitting across the table. India has taken some strides forward and now it is the turn of Pakistan to reciprocate with the same zeal, spirit, hon-esty and sincerity. For this pur-pose it is imperative to create an atmosphere where both the countries will have full faith and confidence on each other. There are still some irritants in the way of large scale trade and com-merce and ultimate atmosphere for the solution of outstanding issues and one of the main irri-tant is the cross boarder terror-ism which has to be dealt and for which Pakistan has to see that its soil is used against any country. Even the Pakistan Prime Min-ister Nawaz Sharief after taking over had clearly mentioned that the relations with India will be his top priority and Pakistani soil will not allowed to be used against any country. If this is the spirit then no power on earth can stop the two countries com-ing closer, cementing their ties and providing a cordial and friendly future for their people.

Income Tax Ombudsman: Take his help to Redress Your Grievances

As a taxpayer, you may have some very legiti-mate grievances relating to your income-tax mat-ters of settlement of your

claims. You may, for example, feel that the Income Tax Department owes you a certain refund of tax but it is not doing enough to hear your grievance of complaint nor taking action to redress it. You may also be aggrieved about the rude behaviour of officials or their failure to follow instructions and circulars of the Board. In all such cases, you can approach your Income tax Ombuds-man. Before you do so, however, you have to ensure that certain condi-tions are fulfilled. The Ombudsman is governed by, and has to act with-in, the framework of the Income Tax Ombudsman Guidelines, 2006. The institution of Ombudsman is of Scandinavian origin. The Om-budsman enquires into grievances or complaints against the function-ing of a public authority. In our own country, the Income tax Ombuds-man is appointed by the Central Government. He is usually a person with vast experience in tax adminis-tration, but functions independent-ly of it. At present, the Government has appointed Ombudsman at New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kanpur, Chandigarh, Pune, Bhopal, Kochi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Ahmedabad. What Grievances can you take to the Ombudsman

You can complain to the Om-budsman about your grievances re-lating to delays in disposal or settle-ment of claims connected with: a. Issue of refunds;b. Interest waiver petitions;c. Appeal effects;d. Rectification applications;e. Release of seized books of ac-counts and assets;f. Allotment of PANs/ issue of PAN Cards. You can also complain of such mat-ters as failure to:a. Give credit for taxes paid, including tax deducted at source;b. Maintain transparency in selec-tion of cases for scrutiny;c. Follow the guidelines, circu-lars and instructions of the Central Board of Direct Taxes;d. Observe proper working hours by Income-tax officials;e. Acknowledge letters and doc-uments forwarded by the assessee;f. Maintain or update records and registers leading to harassment. “A person can also complain about any unwarranted rude behavior of In-come Tax officials with assesses.” Etc., For further details, please re-fer to clause 9 of the Guidelines.

Procedure to be Followed

On receiving complaint, the Ombudsman will examine it to see if certain basic conditions laid down in the guidelines have been fulfilled or not. He cannot take notice of the complaint unless these conditions are fulfilled. These conditions are: i. The complaint should have been signed by the complainant as well as his authorized representa-tive, in case the complainant is rep-resented by such an authorized rep-resentative.ii. The complaint should clearly

indicate/provide:a) The name, address and PAN of the complainant;b) The name and designation of the official who is being complained against (this should invariably be the junior most officer who has giv-en rise to the grievance, not below the rank of an Income Tax Officer)’c) The facts giving rise to the com-plaint;d) Supporting documents; ande) The relief sought from the Om-budsman.iii. The Ombudsman will accept complaints filed through the elec-tronic media if they are otherwise in order, but the print out of such a complaint has to be signed by the complainant at the earliest. After he does so, the complaint would relate back to the date on which it was first received electronically. A complaint shall not lie to the Ombudsman unless in the first in-stance, the complainant had also made a written representation to the superior authority of the officer complained against. Also, a com-plainant can complain only if he has received no reply and more than one month has passed since he submit-ted his representation. Alternative-ly, he can also complain if he has re-ceived a reply but he is not satisfied with it, or if his representation has been rejected. No complaint can be made:i. 12 months after the re-ply was received from the superior

authority;ii. 13 months after the representation was submitted to the superior authority but no reply was received. Remember, the Ombudsman will not take cognizance of the complaint if it has been the subject matter of : a. an earlier settlement made by the OmbudsmanORb. an appeal, revision, reference or writ before any Income-tax authori-ty or a court of law. On receiving a complaint, the Om-budsman shall forward it to the of-ficer complained against and shall endeavour to settle it by an agree-ment through either conciliation or mediation. If the officer cannot set-tle the grievance by agreement with the complainant within a period of one month, or such further time as the Ombudsman may allow, the Ombudsman will mediate and try to bring about an agreement. If he still does not succeed, he can make an ‘award’.

Powers The Ombudsman has the following powers:

i) He can receive complaints on matters indicated in clause 9 of the Guidelines.ii) He can consider these com-plaints and settle them either by agreement through conciliation and mediation or by passing an appro-priate award.iii) He can require the Income-tax authority concerned to provide any information or furnish certified cop-ies of relevant documents required by him.iv) In the event of the failure of an Income-tax authority, to furnish such information or documents (in-dicated in para iii above), he may

draw an adverse inference.v) He can suggest remedial mea-sures for redressal of grievances.vi) He can also report his findings to the Secretary, Department of Rev-enue and Chairman, C.B.D.T.

Duties The duties of the

Ombudsman are to:i) Exercise powers of superinten-dence and control over his office.ii) Maintain confidentiality of information coming into his pos-session and not divulge the same to third parties, except with the consent of the person who furnish-es such information. He may, how-ever, divulge such information to an opposing party to the dispute in order to reasonably comply with the principles of natural justice.iii) Protect the taxpayers’ rights and reduce their compliance bur-den.iv) Identify issues that increase the burden of compliance and bring the same to the notice of the CBDT and Ministry of Finance.v) Furnish a monthly report to the Chairman, CBDT and Secretary, Department of Revenue recom-mending appropriate action includ-ing that to be taken against erring officials.vi) Furnish an annual review of the tax administration to the Chairman, CBDT and Secretary,

Department of Revenue.vii) Compile a list of awards made by him during the financial year and report the same to the Chief Commissioners concerned and Chairman, CBDT so that the same can be taken into account while writing the Annual Confidential Reports of the officials concerned.

Nature of the Proceedings

The proceedings before the Om-budsman are quasi-judicial in na-ture. He is not bound by any legal rules of evidence. He is expected at all times to be fair and reasonable while performing his functions.

Nature of Awards As already indicated, he shall try to settle a complaint by agreement in the first instance. If such agreement is not forthcom-ing within a month or such further time as the Ombudsman may al-low, he may make an award. This shall be speaking order and shall clearly specify the directions to the authority concerned- including making of an apology. The award, however, cannot affect the quan-tum of total income or tax assessed or the penalty already imposed. The Ombudsman can award com-pensation upto Rs. 1000/- for the loss suffered by the complainant. Such compensation will be the first charge on the budget allotted to the authority complained against. The award shall be binding on the de-partment but it shall be binding on the assessee, only if he issues a letter of acceptance within 15 days of its receipt. If the complainant does not accept the award or fails to furnish a letter of acceptance within 15 days or further period of

15 days if the Ombudsman permits, it shall lapse and be of no effect. If it is accepted by the assessee, the authority complained against has to implement the award within one month of its having being made. Compliance of having done so has to be reported to the Ombudsman.

Check List A check list has been prepared to help you file a complaint. This is given below: 1. The complaint has not been signed by the complainant.2. It has not been signed by the authorized representative.3. It does not contain:-a. The name and address of the complainantb. Supporting documentsc. Details of the relief sought from the Ombudsman.4. It has been made electroni-cally but the hard copy (print out) does not have the complainant’s signature.5. The complainant does not seem to have reported to the imme-diate superior of the officer com-plained against.6. More than one month has not passed before the representation to the immediate superior was filed.7. The complainant does not ap-pear to be aggrieved with the reply received from the immediate supe-rior.8. (a) The complaint has been made after the expiry of one year

from the receipt of the reply of the immediate superior;OR (b) Where no reply has been received from the immediate supe-rior:The complaint has been filed after the lapse of 13 months from the date of filing of the representation before the immediate superior.9. The complaint is the Subject matter of an earlier proceeding with the Ombudsman.10. The ground(s) of the complaint is/are also the subject matter of a proceeding in appeal, revision, ref-erence or writ before an appellate authority or a revisionary authori-ty or a Court of Law.11. The ground is not covered by Guideline 9 of the Income Tax Om-budsman Guidelines, 2006.12. The complainant is represent-ed by an authorized representa-tive but no power of attorney to represent the complainant has been filed before the Ombuds-man. Remember, the answer to every statement in the check list should be negative. A positive response to statements are Sr. No. 1 to 7 and 12 would indicate that the complaint is defective and the Ombudsman cannot proceed further to redress your grievance till the defect is re-moved. A positive response to statements at Sr. No. 8 to 11, on the other hand, would indicate that not only is the complaint defective but it is also incurable. No purpose would be served by filing such a complaint. We all have a positive responsibil-ity in making this institution effec-tive. We can do so by ensuring that we eschew the defects indicated in the check list given above and avoid filing frivolous or vexatious com-plaints.