E-paper Pakistan Today 3rd November, 2012

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Malala could have been victim of govt plot, claims Nazeer PAGE |03

Pakistan 96th in list of countries with poor populations

Courts will continue to provide relief to masses: CJ PAGE |19

PAGE |04

Saturday, 3 november, 2012 dhu al-Haj 17, 1433

Rs 15.00 Vol iii no 127 19 pages Karachi — peshawar edition

Only president can judge provincial govts, SC told ISLAMABAD ISLAMABAD: Balochistan Chief Minister Aslam Raisani leaves the Supreme Court after a hearing on the province’s law and order situation on Friday.

Women, children among 18 burnt alive in Khuzdar attack g

Makeshift petrol filling station catches fire after armed men open fire at passenger van being refuelled QUETTA ShAhzADA zuLFIqAR

At least 18 people, including seven women and four children, were killed and five others injured when a “mini petrol pump” caught fire following an armed attack on a passenger van in Khuzdar, 250kms south of Quetta.

The victims were mostly burnt alive.

No one has claimed responsibility for the incident so far. Per details, a van carrying passengers had stopped at a makeshift petrol selling station for refuelling, close to the bus stand on QuettaKarachi highway. As the vehicle refuelled, unidentified armed men opened indiscriminate fire on the vehi-

cle and disappeared. Some of the bullets hit the barrels containing petrol, sparking a fire and explosions. All petrol drums placed inside and outside the station, nearby shops and the vehicle went up in flames and were reduced to ashes.

Initially, the district administration said four bodies had been recovered and five injured had been shifted to hospital. But Khuzdar Deputy Commissioner Abdul Mansoor Kakar said at least 18 bodies were shifted to hospital and 11 of them were yet to be identified.

He said three people seriously injured had been moved to Karachi, adding that most of the dead were burnt alive in blazing fire that engulfed the wagon and shops. To a question, he said it was yet

to be established who the target of the attackers was, however, investigation had been ordered and details would only be available after a thorough probe. Kakar said statements of witnesses had been recorded to establish the identity of attackers and the district administration and police would hopefully be able to track them down soon.

Khuzdar has become a troubled area where over 50 people have been targeted by the militant organisations during the last one month. It was the worst incident of its kind in Khuzdar.

Balochistan suffers from a separatist insurgency as well as thriving militancy, making way for both sectarian and ethnic killings across the province.

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TAyyAB huSSAIn

oNTrAry to the apex court’s observations of failure of the Balochistan government and the constitutional crisis in the violencehit province, the federal government on Friday said it was difficult to conclude that the provincial government had failed or lost its constitutional authority when it was discharging its functions and duties like other provincial governments or other administrative units.

The government expressed its stance in the apex court during the hearing in Balochistan law and order case through a report submitted

by Interior Secretary Khawaja Siddque Akbar.

The SC was informed that under the constitution, the president enjoyed the powers to promulgate emergency in a province and he could also decide the mode and manner needed to be adopted to dispose of the issues pertaining to discharge of duties by a provincial government.

The government submitted the written statement before a two-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry and Justice Jawwad S Khawaja through the interior secretary. The statement was read out by Attorney General for Pakistan Irfan Qadir. The report said it was the sole prerogative of the federal government and not of the court to determine the kind, scope, scale, extent, suitability and adequacy of intervention into the affairs of a provincial government on account of internal

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Interior secretary’s report challenges SC’s findings on Balochistan law and order situation SC says govt must admit failure in Balochistan, democracy does not entail killing people

disturbance inter alia to ensure that the government was carried on in accordance with the provisions of the constitution.

“Therefore, it is only the federal government who is competent and has the requisite jurisdiction to decide what is in the best interest of the province,” the statement added. The determination of the legitimacy of a provincial government was again a domain which had been clearly defined in Articles 232 and 234, the report added.

“The president is the sole authority to decide the mode and manner which should be adopted to dispose of the issue pertaining to discharge of duty by a provincial government,” the report said, adding that “this right is absolute and lies only with the president and nobody else”.

Continued on page 04

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02 News NewS

Today’s

november 3: 18th birthday of Taliban Movement

cartooN

iNfotaiNmeNt Sandy photoshoot sparks controversy

Quick Look

on Page 11

Story on Page 05

Nargis Sethi gives 6 months to officers for improvement in power sector

Malala’s best friend not afraid to return to school LONDON

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LAHORE InP

Federal Secretary for Water and Power Nargis Sethi on Friday directed all the officers in the power sector to improve performance of the utility and bring an end to power theft, kunda system and ensure recovery of arrears. Addressing officers of LESCo and GAPCo at the WAPDA House, the federal secretary asked the officers that instead of sitting in offices, they must show improved performance and warned that action would be taken against those who failed to show improvement.

She directed that there should be no unannounced load shedding. She said all the concerned officers and staff members must come forward to eradicate the menace of power theft. She assured that those napping the power thieves would be given cash awards. Nargis Sethi further said that the recovery of arrears must be expedited and wherever Kundas are being used, they should be removed and meters installed to reduce line losses. Sources said the secretary expressed her displeasure and strong resentment over increasing incidents of power theft and said the government would not tolerate such mal practices.

Civil Aviation DG resigns ISLAMABAD OnLIne

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General Captain Nadeem yousafzai on Friday resigned from his post expressing displeasure over the possible reappointment of Khalid Chaudhry. According to reports, the minister of defence was working to reengage Khalid Chaudhry which prompted the DG CAA to quit his post. Nadeem yousafzai, therefore, sent his resignation letter to the Presidency instead of sending it to the Ministry of Defence. Meanwhile, Khalid Chaudhry has been appointed the CAA DG in place of Capt yousafzai.

Story on Page 14

InP

EEN education activist Malala yousufzai’s best friend Kainat has said that she is not afraid to return to school after the Taliban attack.

“Education is very important for girls and I am very happy in my school,” she said. When Malala was shot in the neck and head by the Taliban two other girls, including Kainat, sustained injuries. Kainat was shot in the arm during the attack. Kainat said that she is praying for her friend and is calling for more education for girls in Pakistan. “I miss Malala. I am praying for her,” said Kainat riaz.

While Malala was flown to UK for specialised treatment, Kainat’s treatment continued in Pakistan. Malala is now being treated at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. Dr David rosser, who is treating the teenager, said Malala could have re-construc-

Britain supports democratic Pakistan: Cameron LONDON: British Prime Minister David Cameron on Friday said that his country is a strong supporter of a free and democratic Pakistan, and wanted to help educate Pakistani children. Talking to Pakistani journalists here‚ Cameron said that Britain is expecting general elections early next year. He further said that British aid was to help Pakistani children receive education and have a better chance in life. Cameron described Malala yousafzai as an “extraordinary” case and that her courage is a beacon of light for all those who believe in human rights and education for all. OnLIne tive surgery on her skull when she is strong enough, which he said could be ‘within weeks’. A National Peace award winner, Malala earned international fame for raising her voice

against the Taliban in Swat by maintaining a diary on the website of the BBC under the pen name of “Gul Makai”, wherein she described the atrocities of the Taliban.

Imran used airport detention for political mileage: US NEWS DESK Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan used his detention and quizzing by American authorities in Toronto for political mileage, the Press Trust of India quoted US Deputy Chief of Mission in Pakistan, richard Hoagland, as having said.

“A lot of the story that went out was not very accurate but played up for political purposes,” Hoagland said.

In principle, nobody is ever stopped from entering the US for their political beliefs, he said.

Some reports in the Pakistani media have said that Khan was quizzed by the American officials as his US visa did not permit him to engage in fund-raising activities,

which was apparently one of the main reasons of his visit to the US. Khan was also questioned about his opposition to US drone strikes, the reports said.

Hoagland said countering terrorism is “most important” in USPakistan relations. “The sooner we contain terrorists, the more peaceful the methods (of counter-terrorism) will become,” he said.

The “strategic pause”, an interregnum in the difficult relationship between the two countries, was now making way for a “more mature but restrained relationship” based on diplomatic, military and intelligence cooperation, he said.

Hoagland further said that no matter who won the US presidential polls, there would be “no pendulum swing in foreign policy.”

Blasphemy accused teacher in hiding LAHORE S TA F F R ePO RT

LAHORE: A resident of the area distributing pamphlets asking to open Farooqi Girls School that is closed since last three days over a blasphemy issue. INP

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

A school teacher at the centre of a blasphemy row was in hiding on Friday as her school management denied all responsibility for the “dirty act” and called for her to be punished.

Arfa Iftikhar was forced into hiding after a furious mob stormed Farooqi Girls’ High School two days ago over a piece of homework she set that allegedly contained derogatory references to Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The school management took out front page adverts in two leading newspapers on Friday to deny it had any knowledge of the supposed insults to the Holy Prophet (PBUH), saying Arfa distributed the work just 10 minutes before the school closed for the Eidul Azha holiday.

“our school management and the owners have no link whatsoever with this dirty act,” the advertisement in Urdu said. “We appeal to the government and the police to take legal action against this teacher and investigate her real motive”.

The school’s owner and principal Asim Farooqi has been remanded in custody for 14 days on charges of blasphemy, which can attract death penalty, while a search is underway for Arfa. Farooqi’s lawyer Jawad Ashraf said they would apply for bail on Saturday and accused police of bowing to the mob over the headmaster’s arrest.

“It seems his arrest was made on public pressure but we see that he has no role in this entire case except some negligence as principal of this school,” he said.

Activists say the blasphemy laws are

often abused to settle personal scores, and Ashraf said the possibility of a conspiracy against the school, one of the most successful in Lahore, could not be ruled out.

Farooqi’s son Sameer Asim Farooqi, one of the school’s administrators, said the way the case had panned out was “strange”.

“It seems that an organised gang attacked our school. The attackers were mostly teenagers and they had batons in their hands, but some of them were also armed (with firearms),” he said.

“We also heard there were announcements in the nearby mosques about the incident to inflame the public.”

Sameer Farooqi said Arfa Iftikhar had been sacked, despite telling the principal she had copied out the offending passage by mistake.

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News 03 artS & eNtertaiNmeNt

karachi

SPortS

Rihanna’s $250 album?

President orders nhA to expedite Sindh road projects

Pakistan supports ICC’s initiative of day-night Tests

editorial Dismiss Raisani: Make the best out of a bad situation.

commeNt Arif nizami says; Looking within: In view of the US presidential elections.

Raoof hasan says; History speaks louder than words: The architects of corruption and their demeaning postures.

Story on Page 07

Story on Page 12

Story on Page 15

KARACHI: A Christian woman looks at religious ornaments as the minority community observed All Souls Day on Friday. ONLINE

articles on Page 14

Malala could have been victim of govt plot, claims Nazeer

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Banned outfit extorting money from businessmen LAHORE: A banned organisation is involved in extorting money from several businessmen in the provincial capital, sources told Pakistan Today on Friday. The sources said that the banned organisation had recently demanded rs 10 million from a leading transport company operating from Lahore, adding that the company was threatened with bomb attacks on their terminals in case of non-payment. The transport company has been receiving calls from two Bannu numbers — 0928313243 and 0928310113 — and is being asked to hand over the money in Afghanistan. Sources said that the police had begun investigations into the killings of four people who had refused to give money to the banned organisation. Meanwhile, intelligence agencies have warned of terrorist attacks on prominent political leaders in Punjab. According to intelligence reports, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Punjab chapter was planning to target key politicians belonging to different political parties. The secret agencies through a communiqué to provincial authorities concerned have warned that the TTP’s Matiur rehman group has planned massive terror bids in Punjab. It has been revealed that Waqas, a member of a banned organisation imprisoned in Kot Lakhpat Jail, was coordinating the alleged terrorist attacks from within the jail premises. RAnA hAIDeR

NEWS DESK

o N T r o v E r S I A L British peer Lord Nazeer Ahmed has said he believes 15-year-old education activist Malala yousafzai, who is awaiting reconstructive surgery at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, could have been shot as part of a government plot to discredit the Taliban.

The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for trying to kill Malala, who was shot in the head and neck, when the TTP opened fire on her school van in the Swat valley on october 9. But Lord Ahmed said he believes Malala might have been shot as an excuse to launch a military assault in the Taliban stronghold of Waziristan, The Telegraph reported.

“I don’t know why it happened and one reason could possibly be there’s an operation in Waziristan [which] may possibly be on the cards or some other sort of action,” he was quoted as saying.

“It could have also been to build and increase public opinion and support in favour of a Waziristan operation and God forbid, she could have been caught as a tool in that conspiracy,” he added.

Comparing the incident to crimes in London, he added: “one lone accident should not be generalised and this could have taken place in London and has done so in the past too. So we should not imply that this area is under the control of the Pakistani Taliban in any way just because

Gen Qazi says witch hunt being carried out against ex-generals ISLAMABAD PReSS ReLeASe

Former railways minister Jehangir Ashraf Qazi on Friday said he was forced to say “shut up idiot” to a reporter after the latter refused to back down from hurling corruption allegations against him.

“I was targeted again yesterday apparently in an organised manner by some in the media. Much was made of my telling a reporter to ‘shut up idiot’.

They ran it all over the channels and two anchors even ran their shows on it.

Did you notice that none of them showed as to what remarks had been passed by this reporter which made me shut him up.

“NAB had called me to clarify some points in their ongoing investigation into the royal Palm Golf Course Contract. As I came out, there was a crowd of reporters waiting outside the gate. I told them that I could not comment on the issue as it was sub judice. one of the reporters shouted, ‘you destroyed Pakistan railways. you generals are all corrupt’. I could have ignored him but such a remark which was a travesty of facts having lived a life of honour was not tolerated by me. Unfortunately it is open season for attack on generals and we got trapped into it at this stage,” he said in a statement.

Detailing his achievements as the minister for communications, ports and shipping, postal affairs and railways, Gen Qazi said he handled hundreds of projects without a slur on his character. “railway Golf Course is just one of them in which my involvement was at conceptual level and I was not involved with actual award of contract. Mr Khakwani with the help of his political friends Mr Ayaz Sadiq, Mr Waqas Akram and some others have hounded me because his lease of rs 12 per year was cancelled by me.

“During this period the annual deficit of railway of rs 2.5 billion was eliminated. overdraft of railway with State Bank was reduced from rs 20 billion to rs 17 billion. railway was reorganised and its manpower was reduced from 13,5000 to 95,000. All trains were clean, well furnished and ran on time. All railway stations were cleaned up and facilities on platforms provided. 23,000 ghost pensioners were detected and eliminated. Thousands of acres of railway land either encroached or under ridiculous leases like with Mr Khakwani were recovered.

Dilapidated rolling stock was rehabilitated and new equipment inducted.

Suffice it to say that railway was well on its way to an efficient , profit making entity.

“Some achievements in other sectors would show the commitment.

Gawadar Port was negotiated with China and phase 1 launched. Lowari Tunnel construction was started.

Coastal Highway was completed. Can-

celled existing contracts of motorways M 1 and M 3 and retendered them saving billions of rupees. Won the case against Bayender from international court and retrieved millions in national funds. Construction of Northern Bypass and Layari Expressway in Karachi. Completion of Kohat Tunnel.

Modernization and deepening of Port Qasim and KPT. reorganised National Shipping Corporation turning it from a bankrupt organisation into profit making entity. Share price went from rs 2 to rs 32 per share. No of ships was doubled. Concept of postal mall was introduced and computerised mail tracking was brought in besides many other reforms.

“When you see the amount of work going on and the huge funds involved, you would realise how much importance a golf course lease among hundreds of projects would have for me.

No one has ever raised a finger on my conduct except this group of politicians led by Khakwani who having been thrown out of High Court have continued media campaign and defamation against me. Unfortunately they succeeded in drawing attention of CJ who took suo moto action and now I am being hounded by NAB which seems to be under pressure to slaughter some ex-generals hence the witch hunt continues,” he said.

of this incident.”

Lord Ahmed, a former fishmonger and Labour Party councillor from rotherham, South yorkshire, was made a life peer in 1998. He was temporarily suspended from the party in April after he told a business meeting in Haripur, Pakistan: “Even if I have to beg I am willing to raise and offer £10 million so that George W Bush and Tony Blair can be brought to the International Court of Justice on war crimes charges.”

PML-N demands Gen Qazi’s arrest ISLAMABAD: PML-N leader Siddiqul Farooq has demanded immediate arrest of Javed Ashraf Qazi and others involved in railways land scam. Addressing a press conference at the Central Secretariat of the PML-N on Friday, Farooq said the agreement between the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and Hasnain Construction Company for the payment of rs 16 billion was not sufficient. The PML-N leader said he had started a campaign against Qazi’s corruption in 2002 and “its results are now pouring in after 10 years”. He said he had complained to then NAB chairman about Qazi’s mega corruption. He said he had also sent private references against Shujaat Hussain, Pervez Elahi and Wajahat Hussain about wheat scandal and illegal elections to NAB and the chief election commissioner but no action had been taken on the references. He appealed to the Supreme Court to direct the authorities concerned to implement the unanimous recommendations of the PAC in this connection. He also asked the SC to take suo motu notices of the 2005, 2006 stock market scandals in which then finance minister Shaukat Aziz had plundered $13 billion from 35,000 small investors. Farooq said he would file an application with the chief justice asking to become a party in the corruption cases against Qazi and others. STAFF RePORT

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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04 Post-storm Continued fRom page 24

queTTA: Afghan men play Buzkashi in Ghausabad on Friday. INp

Pakistan 96th in list of countries with poor populations Pakistan is ranked 96 in a new list of countries having percentage population below the poverty line. The ranking is surprisingly better than stable economies like Israel, Argentina and venezuela and much better than neighbours Bangladesh and India.

Nigeria despite its oil wealth is ranked 7th with 70% of the population living below the poverty line. Liberia topped the list with 80 percent of population living below the poverty line. A majority on the list was African states.

Bangladesh was ranked 62, while India stood at number 72 with 31.5 percent and 29.8 percent of populations living below the poverty line, respectively. NEwS DESk

ex-indian army chief threatens to besiege parliament NEWS DESK Former Army chief vK Singh on Friday backed a farmers body’s demand for rejection of the rangarajan Committee report on freeing the sugar sector and threatened to siege the Parliament next month if it is not met, The Times of India reported.

Addressing a press conference along with vM Singh, convenor of the rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Sangathan (rKMS), Singh said the committee’s recommendation on doing away with state advisory price (SAP) and cane reservation area will adversely affect the farmers of northern states. He said the revenue sharing formula suggested by the committee is not fair and does not provide a level-playing field to northern states, where sugar recovery is below 9 per cent. But the panel suggests 70 per cent revenue be paid based on an average 10.31 per cent recovery of sugar.

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

Bizenjo demands snap polls to improve Balochistan situation ISLAMABAD

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AnweR ABBAS

ALoCHISTAN National Party senior leader Mir Hasil Khan Bizenjo on Friday rejected a call for imposing martial law in Balochistan, urging the government to hold early transparent polls to improve the situation in the troubled province.

Talking to Pakistan Today at Parliament House, he said due to the ignorance by the government in assisting flood-hit people, a major human tragedy could occur in the future and result in loss of life of 20,000-30,000 people.

He said no doctor or the medicines were available to the flood-hit people.

“I feel that under the present situation, the spread of disease, unavailability of doctors, medicines, treatment, will re-

sult in the death of around twenty to thirty thousand people within a year or one-and-a-half years”. He said that unless the international community and donors did not get invited in assistance, the situation of flood-hit people would not improve.

Commenting on the recent political situation in the province, Bizenjo rejected the demand for the imposition of the governor’s rule in the province, saying early polls were the solution to the worsening law and order. “The government is not serious about the accountability bill and the present government does not have the capability for conducting any accountability, whereas the opposition has also failed on this issue.”

Elaborating, he urged the introduction of an automatic system for checks and balances as in other countries of the world. To a question, the

senior politician said Americans would not withdraw their troops from Afghanistan completely and would remain present in the region.

Bizenjo said those dreaming for a comeback of the Taliban or Mullah omar were living in fools’ paradise, as after the withdrawal of US and NATo troops it would require another ten years to make the incumbent Afghan government fall.

He said it would be better if both Pakistan and Afghanistan sat together and introduced a joint decision that whoever was involved in militancy would be dealt with zero tolerance.

Bizenjo said Taliban as a force did not exist in Baloch areas; however, their last border was Quetta.

“In Quetta, there are some splinter groups like Lashkar-eJhangvi or Sipah-e-Sahaba and they are unable to conduct any major bid

of terror,” he said. ruling out any expected development of bonds between religious extremists and Baloch separatists, the senator said clerics and nationalist were in contrast to each other and they could not accept each other.

He said the ongoing militancy had had adverse impact on education and health sectors in the province and counter-militancy had doubled these issues.

Bizenjo stated that the situation of education in the province was at its worst, as 65 percent of schools were “one teacher schools” or were without any teacher.

He urged the government to introduce measures to improve the education sector on war footing, as lack of education would result in empowering militants as well as religious extremists.

“When people cut the line, people are about to stone them,” said Chris Allegretta, who had stood in line for 90 minutes with a gas can at a filling station in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey. Less than 40 percent of all gas stations in New york City, Long Island and New Jersey operated on Thursday because of a combination of power outages and constricted supplies after the storm devastated the energy industry’s ability to move fuel into and around the New york City region. U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and Federal Emergency Management Agency Deputy Administrator richard Serino planned to visit Staten Island on Friday amid angry claims by some survivors that the borough had been ignored. ‘THEy ForGoT ABoUT US’ President Barack obama, locked in a tight race with republican challenger Mitt romney, has so far received praise for his handling of storm relief. But scenes of angry storm victims could affect the U.S. political campaign with Election Day four days away. “They forgot about us,” said Theresa Connor, 42, describing her Staten Island neighborhood as having been “annihilated.”

“And Bloomberg said New york is fine. The marathon is on,” she said, referring to Mayor Michael Bloomberg. rising seawater flooded lower Manhattan, much of which still lacked power and subway service on Friday, while midtown and uptown Manhattan were close to normal. Fury has been escalating throughout New york at Bloomberg’s decision to proceed with the marathon on Sunday, vowing the event - which attracts more than 40,000 runners - would not divert any resources storm victims.

“I just walked past four huge generators. Those could be put to use for people who need them,” said Marjorie Dial, a tourist from oregon who was shocked to see the generators in Central Park, where the marathon finishes. “What they’ve discovered on Staten Island should have been the tipping point - the bodies.”

Only president, not SC, can judge provincial govts Continued fRom page 01

It said the present elected democratic government was about to complete its tenure in office in a few months and it was a landmark achievement in the country’s political history.

“The government would not like to taint or tarnish its fair image by invoking its powers to pack up a provincial government and send it home on a limited local issue of discontentment and dissatisfaction of some so-called nationalist elements who hold divergent views best suited to their interests,” the report added. “The pronouncement of failed provincial government in the context was not easily understood and hard to agree with,” the AG said. The report also said a question arose that if the court had declared the provincial government a failure and sans a constitutional right to govern, was the court proclaiming an emergency as envisaged under Article 232, which was solely vested in the discretion and satisfaction of

the president and did not rest with any other person or forum.

It added that the ongoing process initiated by the federal and provincial governments for development of the province and ensuring law and order was a political and human one, which required long drawn strategies, policies and implementation mechanism. Balochistan Advocate General Amanullah Kanrani also had a heated exchange of words with the bench.

He said the killing of Baloch nationalist leader Akbar Bugti took hplace during Musharraf’s regime and led to the deterioration in the province’s security. To this, the CJ said the court had strengthened the state’s institutions, adding that the advocate general should submit his reply in writing.

Kanrani said if Aslam raisani’s government was removed, no other authority would be present to take up responsibility. He added that general election was going to take place in a few months’ time and it were the people of the province who

had the authority to reject the current government. During the course of proceedings, Interior Minister rehman Malik told the bench that he wanted to brief them on law and order in the province and if he was not provided an opportunity, history would neither forgive him nor them.

The chief justice directed the interior minister to submit his statement in writing. Malik informed the court that a nexus of Taliban, Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Jandola existed in the province and was responsible for the deteriorating law and order.

The CJ asked the interior minister why was he “not arresting them”? Malik said he would be giving a briefing on the matter.

In his remarks, the CJ said whatever was happening in Balochistan was the responsibility of the provincial government.

“We all sitting in Islamabad cannot feel the heat of it. Is it possible for the people in Balochistan to move about freely, is anyone safe and secure in any place?” he enquired,

adding that the chief minister’s own nephew was murdered and the culprit had not been arrested yet. The bench remarked that the government needed to admit that the situation in Balochistan was not stable.

The chief justice said a commission should travel to Balochistan to determine the facts about its law and order. Malik said the government and the judiciary had to sustain democracy in the country, to which the CJ said democracy would persist. However, Malik said it did not appear democracy would be able to sustain in the country, but the CJ said, “Democracy does not entail killing people in Balochistan.” Malik said the issue in Balochistan was not that of law and order, but of an insurgency.

The chief justice said the government should control the insurgency with its latest weaponry, security forces and helicopters. Subsequently, the Malik filed an application in the court requesting a postponement in the court’s ruling in the case. “The court should post-

pone the order so that a constitutional crisis is not created,” Malik said. Addressing Malik, the chief justice said police had accused the FC of having a role in the deterioration of the province’s law and order, but Malik refuted the charge, prompting the CJ to say that the province lacked good governance.

Subsequently, the Balochistan government requested the court for four weeks’ time in order to appoint a counsel. The bench gave the provincial government two weeks’ time and adjourned the proceedings until November 20. Meanwhile, the SC barred authorities concerned from releasing funds for 724 unapproved uplift projects in Balochistan while hearing a petition filed by Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party leader Abdul raheem Ziyarat.

While hearing the case, the SC stayed the release of funds and constituted a committee headed by the chief secretary, directing it to present a comprehensive report about distribution of funds for the schemes.

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News 05 Balochistan doctors’ strike continues, warn of halting emergency services QUETTA OnLIne

The Balochistan doctors’ strike continued on the 18th consecutive day on Friday against the abduction of Dr Saeed Ahmed with distressed patients forced to resort to getting treatments in private clinics.

The doctors began their strike on a call by the Pakistan Medical Association Balochistan (PMA).

The doctors warned that emergency service in hospitals would also be halted if the government did not get Dr Ahmed recovered and that the doctors would tender resignations as well.

All outdoor patient departments (oPDs) and operation theatres have been closed in all hospitals across the province owing to the strike.

ChAMAn: An Afghan man and his children head to their destination after crossing into Pakistan from Afghanistan through the Chaman border on Friday. INp

PM announces subsidy on electricity for agricultural tube wells in Balochistan ISLAMABAD

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APP

rIME Minister raja Pervez Ashraf on Friday decided to give subsidy on the electricity supplied to 15,660 registered tube wells on agricultural land in Balochistan.

This decision was made by the prime minister when a delegation of the Zamindar Action Committee along with Balochistan Chief Minister Aslam raisani met him at the Prime Minister’s House. Ashraf said electricity charges pertaining to agricultural tube wells would be shared by the owners, provincial and the federal governments.

It was decided that the owners of the agricultural tube wells will pay a fixed cost

of rs 6,000 per month while 60 percent of the balance bill will be picked up by the provincial government and 40 percent by the federal government. He directed the Ministry of Finance to issue a notification to the effect after completion of all necessary formalities. The prime minister said Balochistan was one of the top most priorities of his government and if the federal government had the fiscal space, it would not have hesitated to provide more relief to the farmers of Balochistan.

He said he was aware that due to the lowering of water table, the tube wells in Balochistan had to be bored as deep as 1,000 feet to pump water. Therefore, it became difficult for farmers to bear the cost of their installation, and the government therefore would provide subsidy to the

farmers by way of picking up a substantial portion of their electricity bills so that they can operate their tube wells, he said. The prime minister said the long-term solution to the problems of electricity bills for farmers in Balochistan lay in use of tube wells run on solar energy, adding that the federal government had provisions in its budget for installation of solar tube wells. Ashraf urged the farmers of Balochistan to come forward and replace the existing tube wells with tube wells run on solar energy so that the issue could be resolved permanently.

He directed the provincial government to nominate its representative and asked the Zamindar Action Committee to nominate two people who should meet the authorities in the Planning Commission and finalise a criteria for installation of tube wells as well

as the share of federal and provincial governments in their installation cost. The prime minister said the real test would be “how quick and how many solar tube wells” were installed. He urged the committee to identify illegal electricity connections of tube wells in Balochistan so that electricity charges could be recovered from them.

He said the government was already providing a subsidy of rs 3.50 per unit and could not afford that electricity dues remained unpaid. He urged the Zamindar Action Committee to help the government in the recovery of electricity dues from farmers in Balochistan.

The prime minister expressed hope that farmers in Balochistan would work hard for the prosperity of Balochistan and progress of Pakistan.

No VIP protocol to passengers at airports ISLAMABAD OnLIne

Passengers will no more be given vIP protocol at airports across the country, per a new directive issued by the Interior Ministry on Friday. In a statement, the Interior Ministry said passengers would not be given vIP protocol at airports, adding that stringent measures would be taken in this regard. “No concession will be given to the vIP passengers anymore after three kilograms of heroin was recovered from a passenger getting protocol a few days ago,” the notification added. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) also issued a notification proclaiming abolishment of special protocol to passengers at airports and directed for equal treatment to all. The CAA decision came after repeated incidents of recovery of drugs from passengers getting special protocols at various airports. The CAA has strictly directed the airport authorities to end special protocol and treatment to certain passengers and make them all undergo legal process so as to stop drug trafficking.

November 3: 18th birthday of Taliban Movement PESHAWAR ShAMIM ShAhID

November 3 marks the anniversary of the formal beginning of the Taliban movement. on November 3, 1994, the Taliban were openly launched by Gen (r) Naseerullah Babar in Kandahar.

Gen Babar was a leading figure of the Pakistan People’s Party and was serving as the Interior Minister when the Taliban emerged. Earlier Maj Gen (r) Babar served the Frontier Corps as its inspector general in early 1970’s when Sardar Mohammad Daud Khan staged a successful coup against Zahir Shah on July 16, 1973.

Later, Babar was named the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor. None other than Babar himself confessed of “bringing almost top leaders of Afghan jihadi groups to Peshawar and imparting them military training”.

Among them were Habibur rehman Niazi, Gulbadin Hekmatyar, Ahmad Shah Masud, Abdul Haq and several others. At the time, another PPP leader Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao was serving first as a captain and later as a major in the Frontier Corps.

Sherpao is, therefore, popular amongst Afghans, just like Naseerullah Babar. At that time, 200 Taliban mysteriously found a dump of 18,000 klashinkovs with ammunitions along the border at Spin Boldak.

The huge quantity of weapons was dumped none other than Pakistan’s secret agencies for the Taliban, as Pakistan had become uncomfortable with Afghan government when Prof Burhanuddin rabbani become president after Prof Sibghatullah Mujaddadi.

Pakistan’s secret agencies then initiated efforts for a parallel group in a bid to safeguard their interests across

the border in Afghanistan. on october 20, 1994, for the first time in recent world history, instead of the foreign minister, then interior minister Gen Babar took six ambassadors to visit Kandahar and Herat and that too without informing the Afghan government. The purpose of the trip was to show Pakistan’s influence in Afghanistan and to tell Afghan mujahideen, especially those part of the rabbani government, that Pakistan could chase them to their home. Gen Babar used to call Taliban “our babies”.

Eight days later on october 28, 1994, then prime minister Benazir Bhutto declared Gen Babar “Umul Taliban” and instead of meeting Afghan president Burhanuddin rabbani, met warlords like Ismail Khan and Dostam in Ashkabad and threatened to open route to Central Asia. on october 29, a military convoy of 30 NLC trucks left Quetta for Ashkabad with Pakistan Consul General in Herat ISI Col Amir Sultan – commonly known as Col Imam – Mulla Borjan and Mulla Turabi on board. Before reaching Kandahar, the convoy was held up by Afghan commander Mansur Achakzai at Takhte Pul. on November 3, 1994, the Taliban attacked Mansur, killed him and freed the convoy. Mansur’s body was hung from a tank barrel for all to see.

Mansur became the first ever victim of Taliban’s brutality. The Taliban then moved on to Kandahar the same evening and kept on moving on and “ruling” Afghanistan under unseen Mulla Umar until october 2001. During the unprecedented and mysterious victories of Taliban, another drama was staged in early 1995 when a school bus was hijacked from Peshawar and driven to Islamabad.

The raid, made on orders of Gen Babar, ended in the killing of all three kidnappers. In reaction, Afghans protested in Kabul and set on fire Pakistan’s embassy, fu-

elling tension amongst the people in both countries.

Within a period of less then two years, the Taliban entered Kabul on September 26, 1996, when almost all former jihadi commanders familiar with Pakistan’s secret agencies vacated their bases and pockets for the Taliban.

The Taliban chanted slogans like “bringing peace and stability, deciding fate of Afghanistan through Loya Jirga and an end to gun-totting culture in Afghanistan”. But soon after taking over Kabul, the Taliban assassinated former Afghan president Dr Najibullah and his younger brother Shah Pur Ahmadzai. Dr Najibullah had taken shelter in UN compound after resignation as president in favour of UN framed peace council.

Before entering Kabul, Taliban’s military commander Mullah Abdul Ghafoor, commonly known as Mullah Borjan told his loyalists at Sarobi to ensure safety of Dr Najibullah in UN compound. But within minutes, Mullah Borjan was mysteriously assassinated at Sarobi and after

his assassination, the Taliban forgot all their slogans.

When they took over Kabul, Taliban gradually lost support of leading jihadi groups and became isolated not only in Afghanistan but across the world. The Taliban regime in Afghanistan got recognition from only three countries - Pakistan, Saudi Arab and United Arab Emirates. other neighbours like Iran maintained its dual standard on links and terms with he Taliban. Neutral countries, Germany and Japan, traditionally considered friends of Afghans, continued financial assistance to Afghans in socio-economic sectors. From 1996 to November 2001, the Taliban broke all previous records of brutalities and aggression. They banned girls’ education and shut barber shops and cinema houses throughout Afghanistan. They also banned music on radio and television. They invited al Qaeda and other militant group from all over the world and made compulsory growing beard for men and mandated veil for women.

They introduced inhuman punishments through selfstyled courts without giving the “right of defence” to the accused or guilty. After such acts, the Taliban lost support of the international community.

Afghanistan was converted into a “safe haven” for militants and criminals from all over the world.

Beside al Qaeda and its affiliates, criminals from Pakistan involved in heinous acts, including sectarian killing, also shifted to Afghanistan. More than 40 training camps and compounds were established only for al Qaeda-affiliated terrorists headed by osama Bin Laden in all over Afghanistan, while separate camps and dens were opened for terrorists from Central Asian republics.

Similar facilities were also offered to militants from other countries.

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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Saturday, 3 November, 2012

SHO, SP SUSPENDED OVER FAKE ENCOUNTER KARACHI

A

STAFF RePORT

tall claim of police to have killed robbers in an encounter in North Nazimabad Block-I area went wrong after both the deceased young men turned out to be innocent citizens.

According to details, the police first took credit for shooting and killing a couple of armed dacoits in North Nazimabad Block-I area, but later their identification as unarmed citizens forced them to take a U-turn.

Later police, having no other choice to save their uniforms, said the deceased were butchers on their way to recover the payments for animals they slaughtered on Eid-ul-Azha. They added that unknown gunmen killed them both most probably during a hold up as they may have been carrying lot of cash.

“It was a misunderstanding as we had found weapons lying next to the dead bodies of the two men”, the police said.

Both the victims have been identified as Adnan and Naeem. The cadavers were shifted to Abbassi Shaheed Hospital for medico-legal formalities.

Police have registered a case against unknown assailants on the complaint of a friend of the deceased. Both the men were residents of New Karachi.

It is pertinent to mention that the outraged relatives and locals vandalized the police station in protest. To give their rage a full vent, they set the patrolling vehicles on fire and left no piece of furniture intact. Cops also incurred their wrath when they tried to bring the situation under control.

Taking notice of the incident, IG police on Friday suspended Shahra-e-Noor Jahan Police Station SHo raja Tariq.

The police have also registered a case against some unknown armed attackers

for damaging police vehicle and property.

BID tO SMUggLE NARCOtICS tO BANgKOK fOILED: The anti-narcotics force foiled a bid to smuggle narcotics to Bangkok here on Friday.

According to anti narcotics force’s joint director general, 70 capsules filled with narcotics were recovered from a passenger during search of his luggage. He was going to Bangkok on a flight.

The passenger was taken into custody for further investigations.

93 COpS fALL pREy tO vIOLENCE tHIS yEAR: Even the law enforcers are not safe in Karachi as target killings have claimed the lives of at least 93 police and rangers officers so far this year.

According to unofficial data, firing incidents since January 2012 have left 88 policemen and five rangers men dead in Karachi as the provincial authorities failed to curb the drive-by attacks motivated by political, ethnic and sectarian hatred.

Five killed in violence KARACHI STAFF RePORT

At least five people including a woman have been killed in separate incidents of violence in Karachi. Tortured dead bodies of three people, including that of a woman, were found from different areas. According to police sources, a 35-year-old man, Saeed, was shot dead in Jaffar Tayar locality of Malir. He was a political activist.

Tension prevailed in the area after his killing. A woman’s tortured body, packed in a gunny sack, was found near Mewa Shah Graveyard. Unidentified gunmen killed a man, identified as Faisal alias Langra, in Ghousia Colony, Jamshed Quarters area.

Police said that he was involved in crimes. A body of a youth was recovered from North Karachi, Sector-5C-2. The youth was shot to death after severe torture. Another tortured body of another youth was recovered from a stream near Mewa Shah Cemetery of the city. Meantime, a policeman was injured in gunfire by miscreants in Gulshan-e-Iqbal. He was brought to Jinnah Hospital for medical care.

Seven policemen were gunned down in January; four in February; nine in March; 11 in April; three in May; six in June; 12 in July; seven in August; 14 in

September and 15 in october, according to the break up.

Five rangers men also fell prey to the unabated violence in Karachi.

Governor appoints mallah as director finance SalU SUKKUR: Sindh Governor appointed Wahid Bux Mallah as Director Finance (DF) of Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU) Khairpur on Friday. Wahid Mallah had also served as Sindh Agriculture University, Khairpur Director of Finance. APP

Banking court judge suspended

KARAChI: A man roasts trotters of a sacrificial animal at a roadside stall. ONLINE

OBEy US Or faCE ThE mUSIC! KARACHI TARIq hABIB

The officials of Karachi police are being targeted in the dirty political game by the influential personalities of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and are being transferred on refusal of not fulfilling their illegal demands From the initial period of the current government’s tenure, Karachi is facing bloodshed in terms of targeted killings and terrorism while the government is busy in the tug of war among other parties. on the other hand, political personalities are targeting the police officers, busy in war with terrorists, and are using pressure tactics to make them fail.

According to details, some 8,000 people have been killed in the city during the tenure of current government since 2008. Karachi has faced 22 waves of targeted killings in this era.

More than 2,000 citizens have lost their lives in the incidents of targeted killings including 74 security personnel.

Karachi police worked hard to control the situation of law and order in the city and arrested over than 1,000 targeted killers belonging to banned outfits

and different political parties.

The police also lost its 294 personnel in war against the terrorism in the city while hundreds received bullet injuries.

Security agencies also faced suicide attacks in reaction.

Some high police officials including SSP Faayaz Khan, SSP Ch Aslam, SSP Farooq Awan, DSP Israr Awan and many others survived in the suicide attacks.

Fortunately, SSP Fayyaz Khan and DSP Israr survived twice and thrice respectively in attempts of terrorists.

The Central Investigation Department (CID) of Karachi also arrested dozens of target killers belonging to the ruling party and its allies. Such type of actions of Karachi police made the government and its allies unhappy.

Now for the upcoming elections, political parties are drawing their strategies and want to appoint their blue-eyed in their constituencies and posts.

Karachi police is also main target of the parties.

The government and its allies want complete control of the police department and are using pressure tactics to make appointments on the basis of favoritism. Problems and hurdles are being faced by the police officers who are

not fulfilling the illegal demands of the government functionaries and they are being transferred and suspended.

Some of the MNAs and MPAs of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) are drawing their filthy plans to win their areas in coming elections. For this purpose, they are also supporting criminal groups in the city.

The MNAs and MPAs want to use the police department as a puppet and they are pressurizing the police officials for the release of their blue-eyed criminals.

The member of Pakistan People’s Party, Faisal raza Abidi and Qadir Petal, are the main part of the dirty game and want control over the police department.

Petal is considering himself as next home minister, said sources.

The police officers, not fulfilling the illegal demands of the influential ones, are being targeted in forms of transfers and suspensions.

During the last two weeks, Qadir Petal asked the CID officers for his personnel support and to fulfill his unlawful stipulates. on refusal, the government of the Sindh transferred them to interior parts of the province.

More than 25 police officers and per-

sonnel including officers who performed actively in war against terror and are on the target of criminals, have been transferred or suspended.

The behavior of politicians is damaging the performance of the security agencies and providing free hand to the criminals in the city. The officers in the police department are feeling insecure and don’t want to get involved in any controversy.

Crime rate in the city has reached its maximum point but the government is taking interest only in drawing dirty sketches to win next elections.

PPP mPs want complete control over police department for ‘manoeuvring’ general elections and noncooperative cops are being transferred or suspended to settle the score

KARACHI: Sindh High Court Chief Justice Mushir Alam suspended Banking Court Sindh Judge Akhtar Farooq over corruption in Sakina Soomro case and has ordered an enquiry against him. The court gave the order in a constitution petition of yawar Qadri in which he stated that he had brought a plot on the highest bid through the banking court for non-payment.

However, he had stated that Sindh Minister Ayaz Soomro met the Banking Court Judge Akhtar Farooq in his chamber and allegedly asked him to sell the plot to his mother. The said judge cancelled the bidding of the plot without issuing the petitioner any notice, tampered the documents and sold the plot to Sakina Soomro. nnI

Govt notifies reduction in transport fares KARACHI: The government of Sindh in exercise of powers conferred by Sub-section (II) of Section 45 of Provincial Motor vehicle ordinance 1965 has re-fixed the transport fare for vehicles plying on city and inter-city routes. According to a notification issued by the government of Sindh here on Friday, the revised fares are also consequent upon recent decrease in the price of CNG. All buses plying in city will charge rs 10 for up to five kilometer distance, rs 15 up to 10 kilometers and rs 16 up to 20 kilometers. Students would be entitled to concessional rates that would be 50 percent of the actual fare.

Mini buses would also charge rs 10 for a five kilometer distance, rs 15 up to 10 km and rs 17 up to 15 km. For coaches, the fare would be rs 17 up to 10 km and rs18 up to 20 km. As for intercity routes the airconditioned coaches and hi-ace vans would charge rs 1.28 per kilometer against the previous rate of rs 1.60 per km.

Non-air-conditioned buses and hi-ace vans would charge 76 paisas per kilometer against previous fare of 95 paisas per kilometer. Fares for air-conditioned buses run under urban transport system (UTS) will be rs 15 up to a distance of 10 kilometers.

Previously, this was rs 17. APP

KHI 03-11-2012_Layout 1 11/3/2012 4:41 AM Page 7

Karachi 07 President orders NHA to expedite Sindh road projects KARACHI

p

APP

rESIDENT Asif Ali Zardari directed the National Highway Authority (NHA), the communication and the finance departments to expedite completion of the roads projects in Sindh.

The President was chairing a meeting at Bilawal House to review progress on the up gradation of Karachi-Hyderabad Superhighway M9 project, the construction and improvement of Badin link road, construction of Amri Bridge across Indus river to connect Qazi Ahmed (N-5) and Amri (N-55) and the 14-Km long Larkana-Mohenjo Daro road upto the Airport. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah, Federal Ministers for Communication Arbab Alamgir Khan, Finance Minister Dr Hafeez Sheikh, Secretary General to the President, M. Salman Faruqui, EoBI Chairman Zafar Iqbal Gondal, NHA Chairman Muhammad Javaid Iqbal, Federal and provincial secretaries and senior officials of the relevant departments were present in the meeting.

The NHA Chairman briefed on the current status of the M-9 project. He informed that work on construction and improvement of Badin link road was near completion and the delay had been the result of torrential rains of 2010 and 2011, land acquisition problems and relocation of those displaced.

He said that construction of a bridge

abdullah Shah Ghazi Urs amidst tight security KARACHI

KARAChI: President Asif Ali zardari chairs a meeting on various road projects in province at Bilawal house. ONLINE over Indus river with three small bridges branching out, one flyover and 2-km right side approach road would be completed before 2013. He told that

KARACHI APP

Sindh Inspector General of Police, Fayyaz Ahmed Leghari ordered Karachi Additional IGP to ensure foolproof security on the occasion of the annual Urs of saint Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi (r.A). “Urs”; birth anniversary celebrations of the saint would be organized from November 6 to 8 (20-22 Dhu al-Hijjah), at his shrine, at Clifton. The Sindh Police Chief directed the Karachi Police Chief to adopt effective security measures at the entrances and the main compound of the shrine. The IGP also ordered deployment of plainclothes policemen at the shrine. He ordered to install walk-through metal detectors at the main gate of the shrine. He also said that sweeping and cleaning of the shrine and its parking lots should be undertaken in the presence of bomb squad units. Divisional SP Security was directed by the IGP to increase police pickets and patrolling in the area around the shrine. He also ordered the respective Station House officer (SHo) to ensure his presence and that of his next in hierarchy at the shrine round the clock. He said that a traffic plan was being drafted to facilitate pilgrims and commuters and to ensure a free flow of traffic during the three day Urs.

Sindh government mandated inclusion of rotavirus vaccine (anti- diarrhoeal) in its routine immunization programs from 2013.

Public Health Special Secretary Dr Suresh Kumar addressing an advocacy seminar organized by Health Education and Literacy Program (HELP), said that the provincial health department had finalized provision of free pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCv) to all infants receiving their first ever dose of pentavalent vaccine, by next week. The Special Secretary told that pneumonia and diarrhea were the leading cause of infant deaths and the government with the support of GAvI Alliance would launch PCv as part of EPI next week. He said that “we must acknowledge that Pakistan is the first country in South Asia to introduce the pneumococcal vaccine in its national vaccination programme. He lauded (HELP) for arranging an advocacy seminar for strengthening routine im-

KARACHI PR

The chairman of the Wackenhut and Security and Management Services (SMS) has rejected a news item published in Pakistan Today on october 31 in which it was reported that 138 private security companies were working without getting their licenses renewed.

In a press statement, the chairman said that their two companies had wrongly been included in the list of firms operating without legal license.

“We do not know about the other companies but the licenses of our two firms are valid,” he said.

yet. He said that more than half of the 15.75 Km bridge approach road from the left abutment of bridge to Qazi Ahmed had been completed. The meet-

ing was apprised that a 14-Km Larkana-Mohenjo Daro road stretch leading to the Airport was completed and opened for traffic.

anti pneumonia and anti diarrhoeal Stress, illiteracy culminate into vaccines mandated in Sindh diabetes: daP

APP

wackenhut, SmS chairman rejects news item

project managers were coordinating with the HESCo authorities to shift 132Kv lines due to which work on a 500 meter patch had not commenced

munization and introduction of pneumococcal vaccine in Sindh. He said that “presence of a large number of community workers and healthcare providers will definitely help devising methods to prevent pneumonia,” Senior paediatrician Prof D.S Akram speaking on the occasion said that Pneumonia was a major killer of children in the province and had to be contained through public awareness and education.

Professor Akram concluded that “poor rates of routine vaccination coverage suggest that all EPI and health related policies must be evidence based and progress should be shared with civil society organizations and Non Governmental organisation (NGos) focusing on health.

SSUEt ADMISSIONS: Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET) admissions 2013 are underway and the last date to apply was set to be November 10.

SSUET Chancellor Z.A. Nizami reviewed the workings of the admission department and ordered the depart-

ment to ensure completion of paper work by November 10. The Chancellor was informed that 3,913 prospectuses had been sold and 2,161 candidates had registered for admission till october 30. He was told that as per analysis of the registered candidates, admissions were being sought in SSUET by students with marks as high as 89.5 percent. He was told that 867 students had sought admission in civil engineering followed by 672 in Electronics, 259 in Computer engineering and 228 in Computer Science. However only 59 candidates had applied for admission in Bio-Medical and 76 had applied for Telecommunication engineering as being their first choice.

The meeting was informed that of the total number of applications registered, 317 were submitted by students who had secured marks above 80 percent and 970 applications were of those who had scored 60 percent and above.

Applicants for Electronic Engineering had average marks of 73.91 percent and applicants for Computer Engineering had secured an average of 89.5 percent.

KARACHI APP

Although the prevalence ratio of diabetes equals amongst men and women in Pakistan, however, a considerably higher number of women die of diabetes induced complications in the country.

Dow University of Health Sciences National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology (NIDE) Director Prof Zaman Shaikh opined that according to the recently published report of International Diabetes Federation, women in Pakistan were relatively more vulnerable to diabetic complications than men.

He said that “poverty, lack of education, awareness and low social status attributed with women could be major factors of weak immune systems of women and hence contributory factors towards their deaths.” In reply to a question, he said that women hailing from the low economic strata of the country were not attentive towards their health and they only consulted doctors when their ailment became chronic.

pakistan’s friend, Turkey stands tall KARACHI: The close relations and very cordial ties between Pakistan and Turkey are a dream that go back even before the two states came into existence. This was said by Turkish Consul General in Karachi, Mr Murat Mustafa onart, at a glittering reception hosted by him last evening at his residence to celebrate the 89 th Anniversay of the Proclamation of the republic of Turkey .

The Turkish Consul General said the relation between Pakistan and Turkey is not between two countries but two people who are closer than brothers and are always looking after one another. He added that Turkey and Pakistan will always be there for each other under any and all circumstances.

He said modern Turkey which had risen from the ashes of the First World War and its aftermath stood very tall today as it was the 15th largest economy in the world with a per capita income of more than $10,000.

Mr onart said he now wanted to concentrate on enhancing cultural ties between both countries which possessed a rich historic past that was second to none. He said he wanted to welcome the two new vice Consuls who had recently joined the consulate.

Acting Governor and Speaker Sindh Assembly Mr Nisar Khuhro who was chief guest on the occasion in his brief address said all Pakistanis were very proud of Turkey ’s achievements and extremely happy that Turkey stands tall after 89 years, adding that theirs was a rare achievement. He said Pakistan and Turkey will always stand together and jointly meet all the challenges that come their way.

Mr Khuhro said Pakistan greatly appreciates and acknowledges the help and assistance rendered by Turkey to Pakistan in its time of need like the 2005 earthquake and recent floods. He concluded by saying that with a friend like Turkey , Pakistan did not have to worry

about its future. The chief guest and Mr onart then cut a cake made in the shape of the Turkish flag. The reception was at-

tended by ministers, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and elite of the city.

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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08 karachi weather UPdateS

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city directory emerGeNcy helP reScUe 1122 edhi coNtrol 115, 32310066, 2310077 motorway Police 130 Police 15 GoverNor’S hoUSe 136 chief miNiSter’S hoUSe 99202051 fire BriGade 16, 99215007-8 BomB diSPoSal 15, 99212667 red creSceNt 35833973 khidmat-e-khalq foUNdatioN 36333811

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Saturday, 3 November, 2012

99261300-06 99261261-8 99244141-9 99215754-7 99217501-3 111128128, 34100541-7 111922478 35090961-7 111422422 35861039-40

KARAChI: nuns pray in front of the graves of their loved ones during All Souls Day, at a Christian cemetery. ONLINE

REDEEMING URBAN JUNGLES Corporate citizens have to play a greater role in making cities livable, healthy and with proper access to healthcare

f

ASMA SHABAB

roM New york to rio de Janeiro and Johannesburg to Karachi, mega cities are spreading faster than wildflowers. While the faces of these cities show elegantly designed skyscrapers, long, smooth roads and avant garde city dwellers, they don’t reflect the rising insecurities regarding the well-being of citizens or easy access to healthcare.

This is especially true in developing countries where hundreds and thousands of masses migrate every year from rural towns to big cities with a dream to make it big. The migration is so intense that most of the time, authorities are unable to cope with the rising demand of services necessary to establish a quality life.

Proper and planned development is not just a one man show and it shouldn’t be. It is a community effort and, to succeed, all players must realize their roles in sustaining the growth of cities. The role of companies in these situations, increases exponentially since they have a lot at stake and should realize that the development of a community should remain a key feature in their growth strategies.

In today’s age, companies cannot survive if they stick to the old methods of advertising and promotion; they have to consider strategies that are mutually beneficial for them and for the communities they operate in.

Today’s world is about building a relationship with consumers through trust and dependability. This was the conversation at a recent Philips Media Summit held in Singapore where Philips invited media representatives from major ASEAN countries to attend and learn more about the three Philips divisions - Lighting, Healthcare and Consumer Lifestyle. The event was a part of Philips’ avowed mission to improve the health and well-being of people in Asia through meaningful innovation and to make a real difference to people’s lives by clearly identifying community health and well-being needs and providing innovative solutions in this direction.

In the Asia region, Philips works to improve people’s health and wellbeing in three focus areas: raising standards of living by creatingLivable Cities; leveraging healthy eating and living habits through its concept of Healthy Living and reducing barriers in the way of quality healthcare under its Access to Healthcare initiative. The Philips Center for Health and Wellbeing is one such dedicated program.

The Center is designed as a knowledge-sharing forum that provides a focal point on what matters most to citizens and communities. With a diverse range of independent experts, policymakers and opinion leaders, Philips debates and defines the critical problems that society is facing and defines or recommends solutions for overcoming these problems with the

aim of improving health and wellbeing worldwide and promoting meaningful change that can improve people’s overall health and well-being.

In Pakistan, the role of the private sector is crucial and companies themselves are waking up to development demands in order to justify the investment and capitalize on the potential of more than 180 million Pakistanis. The Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC), under its Social Investment Program (SIP), has launched a unique Empowerment Program to provide relief to social welfare organizations in health and education sectors. The company has committed to providing electricity to three dialysis centers of the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT) absolutely free of cost. other companies that have transcended into becoming responsible corporate citizens include Procter and Gamble (P&G) that has continued to fulfill its commitment to helping children in need under its corporate cause Live, Learn and Thrive (LLT). P&G has provided quality education and health & hygiene awareness to over 21 million Pakistanis to date. It has also established three schools with the rEAD Foundation and 60 informal schools with the NGo HoPE. Nestle Pakistan is another company living up to its spirit of Creating Shared value (CSv) and, under its Healthy Kids Program, strives to improve the nutrition, health and well-

GenealOGy OF the POSt-COlOnial State in india and PaKiStan

the Water Car and Why CraCKPOt SCienCe thriv eS in PaKiStan

date: Nov 01, 2012, 7:00 Pm

date: Nov 02, 2012, 7:30 Pm

ness of school-going children through better eating, greater physical activity and emphasis on hygiene.

Philips’ global mission to improve the health and well-being of people in Asia is also trickling down into Pakistan and the company, in collaboration with Philips respironics, has donated the first public sector sleep laboratory at Dow University of Health Sciences, ojha campus, where specialized and experienced professionals provide the highest quality care to people with sleep disorders.

While companies own their role of responsible corporate citizenship, traditionally, their initiatives have been restricted to meet the increasing demands in basic services such as education, nutrition and access to safe drinking water. The challenge for companies in the future will be to create forward looking urban development plans and help citizens fulfill the dream of a sustainable and healthy future.

Despite many companies stepping up and fulfilling their Corporate Social responsibility, the average citizen needs to come forward and do more. The concept of hygiene and community uplift needs to be introduced at the school level and included in curricula as a separate subject.

Whether it is a government or a private school, unless the concept of ‘livable cities’ is not inculcated at the nascent stage, it cannot be expected to take root, despite concerted effort by various organizations.

GhaliB Made eaSy

date: thUrSday, 7:00 Pm, weekly eveNt

veNUe: the SecoNd floor (t2f)

veNUe: the SecoNd floor (t2f)

veNUe: the SecoNd floor (t2f)

Join us at t2f for the launch of tariq amin-khan’s book and a discussion on the post-colonial development of india and Pakistan. State formation in post-colonial societies differed greatly from the formation of the western capitalist state. the latter has been extensively studied, while a coherent grasp of the post-colonial state has remained elusive. the analysis of the post-colonial state that hamza alavi started has been deepened by tariq amin-khan in his new book

remember the agha waqar ‘water kit’ drama? why was it bad science and how did he get away with it? “the laws of physics, in particular a fundamental scientific principle known as the Second law of thermodynamics, impose inviolable constraints. every machine constructed anywhere uses the Second law. this is something that i learned in my first year as a student at mit and have taught for 40 years. No serious scientist would dream of challenging the Second law. agha waqar ahmad’s ‘water kit’, if one believes.

Join us at t2f every wednesday for interactive sessions on mirza Ghalib’s poetry, conducted by author and translator, musharraf ali farooqi. Ghalib made easy by @micromafthe poetry of mirza Ghalib (27 december 1797 – 15 february 1869) has been considered complex, abstract and difficult to comprehend. even for Ghalib’s contemporaries, his language and imagery presented a challenge.

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Foreign News 09 US Secret Service agent ‘kills himself’ amid inquiry WASHINgTON AGenCIeS

A US Secret Service agent assigned to President Barack obama’s security detail has died in an apparent suicide, law enforcement sources have said.

Special agent rafael Prieto was being investigated for failing to report a romantic relationship with a foreign national, they told US media. The agency said it was “mourning the loss of a valued colleague”. The behaviour of its agents have been under scrutiny since a prostitution scandal in Colombia earlier this year. A number were dismissed after allegations that Secret Service agents hired prostitutes while they were in Cartagena last April to prepare the way for President obama’s visit to attend the Summit of Americas.

Agents are required to inform the Secret Service of any relationship with a foreign citizen to ensure there is no risk to national security. rafael Prieto, a married father, admitted to investigators that he had been having a long-term affair with a woman from Mexico, sources told the Associated Press (AP).

World Bank to lend to Burma for first time in 25 years NEW YORK AGenCIeS

The World Bank has approved an $80m (£50m) grant and pledged lending for Burma, the second poorest country in Asia, for the first time in 25 years. The money will go to rural communities to build roads, bridges, schools and health clinics, the World Bank said. It comes after the current government began implementing economic, political and other reforms. Last month, the US lifted sanctions and restrictions on financial institutions lending to Burma. “I am heartened by the reforms that have been taking place in Myanmar [Burma] and encourage the government to continue to push forward with their efforts,” said World Bank President Jim yong Kim in a statement. Another $165m will be made available to Burma once the country has cleared its overdue debt to the bank, said Pamela Cox, World Bank vice-president for East Asia and the Pacific, in a conference call to reporters. Discussion will continue in coming months on how to allocate those funds.

TeL AvIv: Australian Light horse Association riders prepare to take part in a recreation of the 1917 battle of Beersheba. agENCIES

Israel ‘admits’ killing Arafat’s deputy TEL AvIv

I

AGenCIeS

SrAEL has for the first time admitted assassinating the deputy of Palestinian leader yasser Arafat in a 1988 seaborne raid in Tunisia.

The operation was planned by the Mossad spy agency and carried out by the Sayeret Matkal elite commando unit, a report published in Israel’s topselling yediot Aharonot said on Thursday.

Israel has long been suspected of assassinating Khalil al-Wazir, better known as Abu Jihad. But only now has the country’s military censor cleared yediot to publish the information,

including an interview with the commando who killed him, at least 12 years after the newspaper obtained the information. The operation was commanded

by Nahum Lev who, in an interview before his death in 2000, spoke frankly about his role in the operation - although it was never published then.

“Abu Jihad was involved in horrible acts against civilians ... I shot him without hesitation,” the commando told yediot.

A long-time friend and deputy to Arafat who headed the Palestine Liberation organisation (PLo), Abu Jihad had played a leading role in directing the 1987-1993 intifada uprising against the Israeli occupation.

He was also blamed for a series of

deadly attacks against Israelis before the uprising, including a 1978 attack on a bus that killed 38 Israelis.

“For us, it was the state of Israel which assassinated Abu Jihad,” said Mahmud al-Alul, a former assistant to the PLo deputy, and now a senior official in the Fatah movement of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. “Abu Jihad was not assassinated by a soldier but by a decision of the Israeli government and its military leadership,” he told the AFP news agency, saying it was clear to the world which Israeli officials were responsible.

“Everybody knows who the prime minister was and the defence minister, and the heads of the security establishment. For us, they are responsible for killing him,”

Alul said.

At the time, yitzhak Shamir was prime minister, and the defence minister was yitzhak rabin, who later served as prime minister until he was killed by a right-wing assassin in November 1995.

Ehud Barak, the current defence minister, was the deputy chief of staff at the time, and Moshe yaalon, now strategic affairs minister, was the unit commander of Sayeret Matkal.

Dozens of similar operations have been attributed to Israel over the decades.

But Israel rarely takes responsibility, and this public acknowledgement gives a rare glimpse into its covert operations.

The PLo was based in Tunisia at the time of the killing.

Syria conflict: Rebels may have Nigerian ‘youths executed’ in Boko haram stronghold committed war crime: UN NEW YORK/ LONDON AGenCIeS

Syrian rebels have been accused of possibly committing a war crime after a video allegedly showing an execution of government soldiers appeared online.

The UN and Amnesty International condemned the alleged killings which reportedly took place after the rebels seized army checkpoints on Thursday.

Footage apparently shows the rebels beating soldiers before shooting them.

Unconfirmed reports say troops have now quit all bases near the strategic northern town of Saraqeb.

The town lies near both the main Damascus-Aleppo highway and the highway linking Aleppo to the coastal city of Latakia - making it doubly strategic.

The army, meanwhile, continued its air strikes across Syria on Thursday.

In all, more than 150 people reportedly died in fighting, said the Syrian observatory for Human rights (SoHr), a UK-based activist group.

The SoHr said that among the victims were more than 70 government soldiers, 43 civilians and 38 rebels.

The claim has not been inde-

pendently verified.

In a separate development, russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, international peace envoy Lakhdar Brahimi and Arab League Secretary General Nabil el-Araby would meet in Cairo on Sunday to discuss the Syrian crisis, the Arab League announced.

The alleged executions took place after the rebels overran the strategic army checkpoints between on Thursday.

The video purportedly shows agitated rebels kicking and pushing the soldiers to the ground inside one of the seized buildings. Shots are then seen fired into the cowering mass of bodies.

A spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human rights, Navi Pillay, said: “It seems very likely that this is a war crime, another one.”

Spokesman rupert Colville added that the video - if proved to be genuine - “will form part of the UN’s investigation into violations in Syria - an investigation which is now almost certain to end up before the International Criminal Court”.

Meanwhile, Amnesty said in a statement: “This shocking footage depicts a potential war crime in progress, and demonstrates an utter disregard for international humanitarian law by the armed group in

question.”

No group has so far admitted carrying out the alleged killings.

But it is alleged that an extremist Islamist group, the al-Nusra front, was responsible.

For months, activists have reported similar summary executions by regime forces virtually every day.

But there has been mounting evidence of similar tactics being used by some rebel groups too, although many have signed a code of practice banning such abuses, our correspondent says.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton earlier warned that radical Islamist fighters were trying to hijack the Syrian revolution.

The comments have drawn an angry response from some opposition leaders, who say that it is the failure of the outside world to support the uprising with practical help that has left the field open to the radicals.

The SoHr more than 36,000 people have been killed since protests against President Bashar alAssad erupted in March 2011.

The SoHr is one of the most prominent organisations documenting and reporting incidents and casualties in the Syrian conflict. It says its reports are impartial, though its information cannot be independently verified.

MAIDUgURI AGenCIeS

Dozens of young men have been shot dead in Nigeria by the military in Maiduguri, residents in the north-eastern city have told the BBC. An imam told the media about 11 youths from his street alone were killed, including four of his own sons.

The alleged extrajudicial executions happened as Amnesty International accused the security forces of abuses in its crackdown on Islamist militants.

A military spokesman in Maiduguri said he was not aware of the incident. But Lt Col Sagir Musa told the BBC investigations would be made. Maiduguri is the stronghold of the Islamist militant group Boko Haram, which is fighting to impose Islamic law across Nigeria.

Hundreds of people in northern and central Nigeria have been killed in attacks blamed on the group over the last two years.

Amnesty International said in a report on Thursday that the security forces have carried out widespread abuses in their campaign against the militants, killing, torturing and burning the houses of innocent civilians. Allegations denied by the military.

‘Bodies in mortuary’ Malam Aji Mustapha, an imam in Maiduguri, said after morning prayers on Thursday soldiers took him and his children to an open field where many people had already been taken. He said that they were told to lie on the ground.

People were called forward for a screening process - the young men were checked against

photos on a computer database and some of them were separated.

He said that they were ordered to look away and then he heard gunshots.

“They killed four of my children in front of me. They took their bodies to the mortuary of the general hospital,” he said.

When he went to collect the bodies later, he saw the bodies of 48 youths, the imam said.

“In my street alone, about 11 youths were shot dead and no-one has given us an explanation about what they did.” reporters have spoken to other residents in the city who had similar stories about house-tohouse searches across the city - and those rounded up taken to the field for screening. one man said he saw a dozen corpses at the general hospital. He identified one of them as a friend with whom he played football.

In response to the Amnesty International accusations, Nigeria’s Finance Minister Ngozi okonjo-Iweala told the BBC’s Focus on Africa programme that the government would never condone human rights abuses, but it should be remembered that the army was trying to curb “terrorist” acts. “I think you need to look at the circumstances. When the UK was battling terrorism... the US, they had Guantanamo Bay....

All countries, when the security of their citizens is at stake, they try to use all the tools at their disposal,” she said.

Ms okonjo-Iweala added that she objected to suggestions that the security forces acted in a “heavy-handed” way.

“Everyday our security forces are putting their lives on the line to fight this issue [of violence by Boko Haram].”

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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10 Comment Looking within

Dedicated to the legacy of the late Hameed Nizami

In view of the uS presidential elections

Arif Nizami Editor Lahore – Ph: 042-36298305-10 Fax: 042-36298302 Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9 Fax: 021-35381208 Islamabad – Ph: 051-2287414-6 Fax: 051-2287417 Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

dismiss raisani Make the best out of a bad situation

By Arif Nizami

aisani has turned out to be perhaps the most inefficient CM since the first elected government was inducted in Balochistan after it was accorded provincial status. raisani has occasionally claimed that he did not have powers but such is the lure of perks and privileges that he continued to cling on to the post. He is not unwilling to resign despite serious strictures passed by the Supreme Court. He has lost the confidence of the provincial chapter of the PPP which has canceled his basic membership. His allies are divided over extending support to him.

Despite claims that he enjoyed majority in the Provincial Assembly, only 15 MPAs out of more than 60 accompanied him to the SC hearing. The apex court has ruled that the government led by raisani had failed to uphold the constitution. on Wednesday, the CJ censured the federal government for not implementing the order that contained the strictures and sought a clarification from the attorney general over the constitutional authority of the provincial government. This should lead the federal government to reconsider if it is wise to keep raisani in power.

The report submitted by the federal interior secretary to the court on Friday maintained that the provincial government had not failed.

The federal government knows more than anyone else of the inability of the CM to improve the situation, despite Islamabad having put billions of rupees at his disposal. The money that could have been used to reduce the sense of deprivation in the province and in improving the law and order situation was siphoned off through phony projects like substandard roads, hefty compensation packages for the CM’s family and a new aircraft. Many PPP leaders from Balochistan, including party president Sadiq Umrani, have conveyed their reservations to the federal government. Balochistan Governor Zulfiqar Magsi has reportedly suggested several times that the president should replace the CM. Speaker Balochisan Assembly has rejected raisani’s request to convene the provincial assembly as he is not sure of the constitutional status of the raisani administration after the SC verdict.

The federal government has three choices. It could continue to support raisani despite demands for change from PPP circles, the governor and the SC. The government would do well to avoid this option as it would not only divide the Balochistan PPP but also lead to a confrontation with the SC. The best way out would be to evolve a consensus for an in-house change. If this turns out to be difficult, the president should impose the governor’s rule. In any case, raisani must go. The new arrangement would by and large be a face saving device. It would however save the federal government from further embarrassment.

oon after Hurricane Sandy wreaking havoc of historical proportions, it is business as usual for the presidential candidates: incumbent Barack obama and his republican challenger Mitt romney.

They are back on the campaign trail with full vigour. Come Tuesday the US electorate will elect a new president.

Theoretically, this election should have been obama’s. After all, four years ago he was elected as the first black president in America’s history. Posing as an agent for change the young and dashing obama gave a lot of hope to an increasing number of unemployed and frustrated Americans. obama can claim credit for taking the country out of recession. But it is too late and too little to help him at the polls. Americans, wary of war in Afghanistan which seems meaningless to them and unemployment rate still running at a historic eight percent, are a deeply divided people. Hence it is no surprise that according to the latest CNN poll, obama at 48 percent is just one percentage point ahead of romney.

If obama loses the race, the elections could be a Carter moment for the Democratic Party. Jimmy Carter as president was strong on human rights and democratic values for the rest of the world. But for Americans, especially after bungling the Tehran hostage crisis in 1981 and rampant stagflation during his tenure, he was considered too weak and inept as a leader. He lost his re-election bid to the republican challenger ronald reagan.

However, if Barack obama loses to romney, his case will be closer to that of George H W Bush who lost to the Democratic challenger despite the successful ground invasion of Iraq in 1991. At the time his approval rating was 90 percent. The Bill Clinton campaign using the prevailing recession at the time coined the now famous phrase, “it’s the economy stupid!”

r

Candid Corner

By Raoof Hasan

S

Bush Sr lost to Clinton after his approval ratings plummeted in less than a year. obama successfully took out osama bin Laden. romney, who was considered a weak candidate representing big business, is successfully challenging him. In fact now he is too close for comfort. Thanks to a weak and sluggish economy.

Wrongly accused of being a Muslim by the ultra conservative, the so-called Tea Party Movement and even by some of the mainstream republicans, obama is deeply unpopular in Pakistan. According to a BBC poll, 60 percent of Pakistanis are against obama and would rather vote for his opponent if they had the vote.

This is not surprising in a country where incidentally the vast majority of the people are anti-US. Under obama exponential increase in drone attacks has contributed to his poor approval ratings as well as that of his country.

In the third and final presidential debate, the candidates focused on a wide range of foreign policy issues including the US mission in Afghanistan, US counterterrorism efforts and relations with Pakistan.

Both the candidates broadly agreed on engaging Pakistan, albeit for the wrong reasons. They consider Pakistan an ally, which is a hotbed of terrorism, and a nuclear state proliferating like no one else. romney, interestingly enough, was more vociferous in keeping lines of communications open with Islamabad than his opponent. owing to the exigencies of the end game in Afghanistan, Pakistan had to be kept engaged, lest it becomes “a failed state”.

There is a perception that under republican administrations Pakistan has been somehow better off than the Democrats.

This was the case when reagan supported the Zia regime in the aftermath of Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

However, judging through the prism of US policies since 9/11, this is hardly true. It was under the republican administration of George W Bush that Musharraf was armtwisted to kowtow to Washington. Pakisatn was threatened to be bombed to the stone ages if it did not fall in line with Washington’s war in Afghanistan.

Since Washington’s relations with New Delhi and Islamabad are viewed as a zerosum game in our part of the world, it is interesting to note that under the Bush administration a strategic shift towards India became quite pronounced. Since 2004, Washington and New Delhi have been sharing a strategic partnership, “based

on shared values and generally convergent geopolitical interests”.

The very next year, in 2005 in Washington, making a clear departure from its stated non-proliferation goals, a framework of a US-India Civil Nuclear Deal was announced in a joint statement by George W Bush among with the Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh.

Under obama, however, enthusiasm for India has somewhat waned in Washington.

The civilian nuclear deal has stalled. Ironically enough, the word “India” was entirely missing from the recent presidential debate.

This does not mean that the obama administration has in any way cozied up towards Islamabad. He visited India in 2010 and twice flew to Kabul but bypassed its socalled ally who had slipped from being a friend to a “frenemy”.

In fact, obama has been tough on Pakistan in many ways. He refused to apologise on the Salala incident in which 24 Pakistani soldiers were killed by the US troops. Nor did he submit to Islamabad’s demand for reopening of the NATo supply routes on its terms. His administration has also refused to balk on the ever-increasing drone attacks.

It is obvious that whoever wins the US presidential race on Tuesday is going to be equally good or bad for Pakistan. There is a broad consensus in Washington on quitting Afghanistan by 2014. Whether Islamabad is part of the end game will depend on how our policymakers play their cards.

Marc Grossman, the US special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, recently visited Islamabad. Apparently, he had a marathon session with the CoAS General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani. reportedly, a departure from the acrimonious meetings of the past the session went quite well. Some kind of a framework of engaging the Taliban was agreed upon.

Candidate Mitt romney, if he makes it to the White House – a realistic possibility now – could be tougher on Pakistan than his predecessor. Drone attacks on our badlands are a bipartisan policy.

These attacks probably might even increase as ISAF troops withdraw from Afghanistan. Neither the pressure on Pakistan from Washington to launch a putsch in N Waziristan is likely to subside whoever occupies the White House. our war gamers should be looking within to chart out security policies in the best interest of the country. And backing the Taliban and their cohorts is not an option in our best interest.

The writer is Editor, Pakistan Today

history speaks louder than words The architects of corruption and their demeaning postures

T

he menace of corruption is deeply ingrained in the political foundations of the country and it may be difficult to trace its origins to any one incident or person.

But the phenomenal increase in its exercise goes back to the emergence of a few families in the realm of national politics. The recent judgement of the Supreme Court (SC) in the matter of Asghar Khan’s petition against the doling out of state funds to impact the outcome of national elections sheds considerable light on the character of some of these stalwarts who are constantly perched atop the moral pedestal pontificating to other members of their community and the people at large.

Deserving particular mention in this domain is the house of the Sharifs whose origin, conduct and tactics have perfected the art of corruption and given it a meaning and substance that were relatively unknown before they entered the arena. The Sharif family came to limelight courtesy the patronage of that demonic despot Zia ul Haq. It is to his self-serving policies that we owe the humiliating plunge that the country has taken over the last thirty-five years. To his policies we owe the gun and the drug culture.

To his self-righteous proclivities we owe the despicable indoctrinations

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

in hate that the ‘madrassah’ syndrome has so extensively cultivated and to a streak of sadism ingrained in his person we owe the most draconian phase of dictatorship witnessed in recent times replete with inhuman floggings and executions.

It is in his lap that we see the birth of the Sharifs and their subsequent nurturing to become political kingpins. Nawaz Sharif’s advent into power as the finance minister in Punjab heralded the unprecedented expansion of their business empire which rested on loans secured that, in most cases, ran into prolonged litigations. The tradition of using public office and state riches mercilessly for personal advancement are all traceable to the political culture that the Sharifs imbibed from the dictator.

The fact that Nawaz Sharif allegedly sold his soul for as little as rs. 3.5 million to propel his political drive against the opposing coalition is also symptomatic of the family’s total addiction to power and its resolve to secure it at whatever price or compromise. Their penchant for using money for the advancement of political ambitions has been a well-known ‘secret’.

While legal proceedings may or may not be initiated, there is little by way of moral ground remaining for such people to stay in politics.

The advent and expansion of the demon of corruption has defiled politics beyond recognition which is now perceived as the art of exploiting the state resources to fill personal coffers. It is in the vile machinations employed by these self-anointed ‘democrats’ that we can trace the demise of the noble concept of politics to which is no longer seen as service to the people. It is now acknowledged as a detestable occupation meriting ignominy for its practitioners.

There are others who allegedly sold their souls, too, for meagre sums.

They included Syeda Abida Hussain, Zafaraullah Jamali, Mohammad Khan Junejo, Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi, Hasil Bizenjo, Pir Pagara, Jamaat-eIslami and some others. The SC has judged that the gratifications paid have to be recovered with profit.

Another groundbreaking aspect of the judgement deals with the role that the President plays in a parliamentary system: “A President of Pakistan, in the Parliamentary system of government, being head of the State, represents the unity of the republic under Article 41 of the Constitution.

And, as per the oath of his office, in all circumstances, he will do right to all manner of people according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill will. Thus, holder of the office of

the President of Pakistan violates the Constitution if he fails to treat all manner of people equally and without favouring any set according to law and, as such, creates/provides an occasion which may lead to an action against him under the Constitution and the law”. read with the part of the judgement dealing with the immediate abolition of the reported election or political cells that may exist in the ISI and the presidency, the adjudication constitutes a serious challenge for the President who, alongside being the head of the State, is also the co-chairperson of the PPP. The judgment is unambiguous and expects of the President to leave one of the two charges that he commands: either the office of the Head of the State, or that of the cochairperson of his political party.

The fact that the co-chairperson of a political party was actually allowed to be elected as the President of the country also reflects the inherent disdain with which the political leaders across the divide treat the constitution. It is effectively construed as a handmaiden that will be used and abused as may please their disposition.

If one measures the bluntness of the judgement against the corrupt predilections of various political leaderships, one wonders as to what

the possible outcome would be. one has also seen the philosophy of confrontation that the PPP leadership has so far adopted to deal with adverse judgements of the SC. In the process, it has had to sacrifice one of its prime ministers also. It is another matter that the move may have been part of the grand strategy to clip the wings of an incumbent who had begun to transgress the parameters of political subservience to the ‘leader’. So, he was encouraged to script his own demise and fade away to his home town via the back yards of the presidency.

All eyes are now set on the government which is to initiate prosecution proceedings against the army generals on the one hand and the politicians on the other. What will be the possible reaction from the army with regard to initiating proceedings against a former Chief and a former DG ISI? Will the government move against its political adversaries, or will it use this unexpected position of strength to strike compromises with them on, let’s say, the new accountability bill and other such perverse formulations? one will not have to wait long to see how things unfold.

The writer is a political analyst.

He can be contacted at: raoofhasan@hotmail.com

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Comment 11

Editor’s mail Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan.

Fax: +92-42-36298302.

E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk.

Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively.

meera Ji: an inspiring poet Muhammed Sanaullah Sani Dar (25 May, 1912 – 3 November, 1949), also known as Meera Ji, ‘studied the Western literary thoughts and its criticism. He also studied many leading poets of the West to be inspired. His descriptive criticism influenced Urdu literature and particularly his contemporary poets.

Had he not been there, many writers and poets would not have left their impressions on Urdu literature’, says Prof Muhammed Hasan Askari (19191978), a premier literary critic.

Aside from writing poems, Meera Ji was a translator of outstanding merits, a critic at his best, a literary columnist of his own style, an editor of a literary magazine trying his best to delve deeper into the new taste of literature and a broadcaster of his own. Faiz Ahmed Faiz in his essay, titled, ‘Meera Ji ka fun’ (The Art of Meera Ji) rightly pointed out that ‘ the way Meera Ji has brought the pieces of world literature to us is not mere a translation but an invention.’

Meera Ji was one of a few poets of Urdu who used many pen names in his writings: Sahiri, Bashir Chan, Meera Ji Almaroof Banday Hasan. Noon Meem rashid gave him a title ‘Adabi Gandhi’ (Literary Gandhi). He co-edited a literary magazine, ‘Adabi Dunya’ from 1938-41. He worked for all India radio, Dehli during 1942-45. He also edited a literary magazine, Khayal, from 194849. He also wrote literary columns, titled, ‘Batain’ (Talks) in the monthly Saqi, Dehli in 1944. His many poetry collections have seen the light of the day: Meera Ji ke Geet (1933), Meera Ji ki Nazmain (1944), Geet hi Geet (1944), Paband Nazmain (1968) and Teen Rang (1968). He also wrote criticism: Mashriq wa Maghrib ke Naghmain (1958) and Is Nazm Main (1944). He also did translation of the work of a Sanskrit poet as Nigar Khana (1950).

According to a research of Dr Jameel Jalibi, he died on 03 November, 1949, at King Edward Hospital, Bombay, and laid to rest at Merry Line graveyard at Bombay. Dr Jalibi ably edited his entire collection of poetry as Kulliyat-e-Meera Ji. JAWED AHMED KHURSHEED Karachi

catastrophic hurricane Sandy Hurricane Sandy that hit the US East Coast on Tuesday, october 30, 2012, has caused devastation that has no parallel in the history of natural disasters in the United States of America, in 100 years. New york City and a major part of the eastern United States struggled with massive flooding and power outages. Hurricane Sandy flooded parts of New york’s subway system and Manhattan’s Wall Street district, bringing a halt to all financial activities in the business hub of New york.

Sandy’s impact has been colossal.

It has brought innumerable homes

under water, uprooted trees and damaged power lines up and down the Atlantic coast. The situation in New Jersey has been comparatively much worse. Houses and businesses on the New Jersey shore have been extensively damaged by the battering of the catastrophic storm. A glance through the pictures available on the net, vividly depict the magnitude of the damage that Sandy has caused to the American city of New Jersey. It wouldn’t be wrong if one said that the damage done is inconceivable.

It is estimated that the destruction caused by Sandy has accrued a loss of

disaster in the US one can see the ongoing discussion on social media network and on some Tv channels exploring the reasons behind the superstorm Sandy which caused widespread chaos and devastation in North America. on the surface it may look a general exchange of views on what the US experienced in last few days. But that’ not end of the story; there are people who are terming the destruction this super-storm has brought as revenge of eternal forces for the Americans’ deeds.

Natural calamities could hit anyone anywhere on this globe whether it’s devastating earthquake in Pakistan (2005) wherein plus 75,000 people died or Tsunami in 2004 which brought widespread destruction on Ache, Indonesia killing around 170,000 people while above 500,000 were left homeless.

We need to learn lessons from Sandy: how the Americans are able to precisely predict the direction, intensity and timing of this super storm which helped to evacuate millions of people to safety, how come they are so quick and efficient in the repair and cleanup operations, how the Sandy doesn’t turn into a political ping pong blame game among federal and state governments and presidential candidates, how thousands of volunteers come out helping everyone in need (as someone wrote these volunteers are unpaid, not because they are worthless but they are priceless).

It’s time to sympathise with those who died in this natural calamity, and time to boost who braved the storm to bring the Ny stock exchange and other public facilities to life within two-day time.

MASOOD KHAN Jubail, Saudi Arabia

let go, mr raisani According to media reports, Speaker Balochistan Assembly has refused to convene assembly session on the advice of chief minister secretariat. Party membership of Chief Minister Balochistan has been suspended for three months by Kalat district PPP president for going against PPP policies. This means there is revolt against Mr raisani in the party. The Supreme Court of Pakistan has already given a clear verdict about the failure of the provincial government in the matter of governance. This is a grave situation for the province. People want to know what justification there is for Mr Aslam raisani to continue as the executive head of the provincial government under these circumstances. Balochistan

over $20 billion to the American exchequer. This means that an expenditure of $20 billion or more would have to be incurred by the US government to undertake rehabilitation and repair work in areas badly affected by Hurricane Sandy. According to reports in the media 40 people lost their lives in the storm. Though not a very large number, loss of valuable human lives is indeed heartrending.

Needless to say that in this hour of grief the entire world should stand by the American people. World nations which have grievances against the US

is facing serious political and constitutional challenges. It is time for the federal government to intervene in the interest of people of the province.

ASGHAR MAHMOOD Islamabad

Need of judicial activism on drones Drone attacks conducted by the CIA in the tribal areas of Pakistan are not only against the international law and UN Charter but are also violative of the Constitution of Pakistan. Article 9 of the constitution provides, “No person shall be deprived of life or liberty saved in accordance with the law”. Furthermore, Article 4 says, “To enjoy the protection of law and to be treated in accordance with the law is inalienable right of every citizen.” In the presence of the procedure provided under the normal criminal justice system of the country, killing suspect terrorists along with the higher ratio of innocent people is absolutely regrettable and condemnable There can be no slightest legality or justification for a state to allow an alien force to deprive its nationals of the right to life arbitrarily. If the government of Pakistan has allowed these drone attacks then it is gross violation of the fundamental rights protected under the constitution. on the other hand if these attacks are going on without the authorization of the government of Pakistan, then again, it is the violation of the article 245 which says “The armed forces shall, under the direction of Federal Government, defend Pakistan against the external Aggression.” So, it is the constitutional duty of the government of Pakistan to direct the armed forces to defend the country against such external aggressor.

So in either case, the government of Pakistan has been guilty of the open violation of the constitution.

In protecting the constructional rights and fundamental freedoms of the citizens, the role of Supreme Court is commendable so far. The apex court can take notice under Article 184(3) of the constitution to protect the fundamental rights of the individuals. It has taken suo motu notices on the issues such as Karachi killing, missing persons and many others. It should also take suo motu notice over these illegal and unjustified attacks in which hundreds of innocent Pakistani nationals have lost their lives. Unlike the other incidents, here the aggressor is obvious and the matter much graver.

MOHSIN RAZA MALIK Lahore

government and bitterly dislike its hegemonic policies must also bury their feelings of hatred and support the American nation, in whatever manner they can, in their hour of tribulation. In doing so, those who have lost their valuable lives in the devastating storm must specially be remembered. They should be remembered in good words and their next to kin should be sincerely supported to face this irreparable and tragic loss with patience and fortitude.

M FAZAL ELAHI Islamabad

responsible politics A government is elected to embark on nation building to face the challenges of future, providing employment, security, health, food and education. When Hurricane Sandy blasted the East Coast, it led to temporary disruption of all public transportation system such as rail, road and air, including the destruction of thousands of homes and electric power shut downs that are expected to last for almost a week.

The world's superpower in the words of President obama was humbled by nature's destructive power, but reminded of its obligation to provide relief and security to the masses. This is what democracy is all about and that is why democratic system of government survives in the developed world. The US elected president suspended his election campaign, declared an emergency of sorts to focus on providing welfare and restore disrupted transportation, health and electricity systems.

America was shaken up with devastation wrecked by what is being termed as Super Storm of century.

In sharp contrast to all this it is shocking to witness that last two successive governments in Islamic republic of Pakistan have been systematically involved in wrecking through sheer incompetence and institutionalized corruption, a function railway network, the national airline, steel industry, creating the worst power generation failure in the history of this country and worsening the law and order situation across the length and breadth of this country. For instance PIA, once the pride of Pakistan, has been bled of additional rs100 billion in losses and pilferage during past four years. We have witnessed industrial retardation and massive flight of capital and skilled human resources to foreign countries.

The nation's financial capital Karachi, has been reduced to notoriety of being declared most dangerous city in Asia, where target killings has consumed more lives than war against India, a city where extortion, land grabbing and kidnapping for ransom has become a booming business, patronized by those in power and a city where law enforcement is hostage to criminal gangs organized by political parties that rule the province in a coalition government. religious fanaticism breeds because of failures of government and ill-conceived policies of security establishment. It is not a natural disaster that has wrecked the Pakistani nation, its people or their economy, but a man-made disaster generated by insatiable greed of its ruling elite and paid corrupt mediocrity within civil or uniformed bureaucracy.

RASHID ORAKZAI Texas, USA

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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12 Voice actors stepping more into the spotlight Jessica Biel received 4 wedding rings from Justin Timberlake

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EGaSTaR Justin Timberlake reportedly gifted his wife Jessica Biel four wedding rings to match her 18-carat engagement ring. it has been revealed. according to People magazine, the 31year-old singer and actor, who tied the knot with hitchcock actress in a lavish four-day bash in southern italy earlier this month, directly collaborated with Leor Yerushalmi of The Jewelers of Las Vegas to design four stackable wedding bands to go with her enormous 18-carat engagement ring, Contactmusic reported. The in Time actor told the magazine that he helped the designer to create the very personal white gold and black rhodium plated engagement ring which also features two aquamarine elements representing his wife’s birthstone. in total the 30year-old bride chose four stackable weddings bands, two of which are the same as Justin’s ring and the other two are said to be white gold with a black rhodium finish and covered in diamonds, while Timberlake chose a simple yellow-gold domed ring with a hammer finish. The couple were eager to have equally special wedding rings, which took several months to complete. however, Biel was said to have worn only one of her wedding bands during their ceremony on their special day in italy. newS DeSK

Rihanna’s $250 album?

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ihanna seems to find her upcoming seventh studio album an occasion worth celebrating.

The singer is releasing a $250 version of “Unapologetic,” complete withairline tickets, caviar, champagne, collectible colored vinyls, a handwritten note from Rihanna, a 2GB flash drive, a t-shirt, lithographs, an illustration, stickers and — wait for it — a custom View Master with photos of Rihanna’s style throughout the years. also included: a 40-page notebook with more scribblings from the Barbadian beauty, a photobooklet, DVD, fan poster and a deluxe version of the album itself. The “Diamond Executive Platinum Box” is set to hit stores Dec. 11. a cheaper version of the swag bag is also available for $79, and includes a number of the items in the “executive” package. a limited edition diamond bracelet is also included. Diamonds have figured prominently in the buildup to “Unapologetic.” The Benny Blanco-produced lead single, “Diamonds,” came with artwork that depicted the singer rolling a joint full of the precious stones. Rumors are also swirling that the singer haspurchased diamond bracelets for all tour ViPS. What can be said? She’s just about that life. For fans too thrifty to plunk down such a chunk of change, the album itself is out nov. 16. newS DeSK

Daniel Radcliffe shares bathtub with Jon Hamm

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CTOR Daniel Radcliffe will be seen sharing a bathtub with co-star Jon hamm in television series “a Young Doctor’s notebook”. Based on the novel by Mikhail Bulgakov, the series shows Jon hamm as a middle-aged doctor looking back on his days as a young medic during World War i, with his younger self played by Radcliffe. The series is based in the backdrop of village Muryovo at the beginning of the Russian Revolution in 1917. The four-part series will come on air early December. newS DeSK

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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NEWS DESK

rANK Welker’s name may not immediately ring a bell to you, but you almost certainly know his voice. He’s acted in nearly 700 films and television shows.

From Fred in “Scooby Doo” to ray in “The real Ghostbusters” to the most recent “Garfield” — if it’s an animated show, there’s a very good chance you’ll hear Welker’s work (he also specializes in animals, like “Aladdin’s” Abu). He can currently be heard reprising his memorable role as the evil Megatron on “Transformers Prime,” with his old friend, Peter Cullen, who plays one of the most noble characters ever created, optimus Prime.

Cullen was also a mainstay of 1980s animation, in roles such as venger in “Dungeons & Dragons.” Welker and Cullen make their living as voice actors and it’s not easy to forget, as the pair of them often break into voices like John Wayne, Peter Lorre and Jabberjaw, one of Welker’s favorites.

However, more and more A-list actors are joining the voice-over club over the last 20 years. It’s even gotten to the point where Chris rock, star of the “Madagascar” franchise, took the opportunity of presenting an animation oscar to quip about how “easy” it is to do voice work. rock joked that all he had to do was say the lines, “And then they give me a million dollars.” (No less than Danny Devito took issue with that characterization.) voice actor Seth MacFarlane — creator of “Family Guy,” “American Dad” and “The Cleveland Show” — is enough of an A-lister to host both “Saturday Night Live” and next year’s oscars. So how has the world of voice acting changed since Welker and Cullen’s early days (besides the fact that a show like “Mighty Man and yukk,” their first job together, probably wouldn’t get made today)?

“The technology has changed a lot,” Welker told CNN. “you see the CGI animation is so pretty and you could do a lot more with it than our old flat animation which I still like, of course.

Watching those shows absolutely blows me away on an HD screen. you see so much more detail. It gives the actor more opportunity to bend your voice and be more subtle.”

Cullen said, “The respect level (for voice acting) is climbing and climbing faster than it ever did before in the last few years. The studios are recognizing they don’t have to hire a big name actor. People don’t know the difference in most cases. They’re finding they

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can take a chance with talent and accomplish the same thing.”

Welker also noted that the Internet has made a big difference, and made it easier for fans to follow particular voice actors.

“In the old days doing the show, we never got one piece of fan mail,” he said. “We had no idea there was an audience out there.

The only way to tell there was some interest was if we got picked up for another season — oh, somebody liked us.”

Crispin Freeman became a voice actor in 1997, just at the time when animation attracting A-listers was going strong. He’s best known for his work dubbing Japanese anime like “Howl’s Moving Castle” and most recently Cartoon Network’s “young Justice.” Cartoon Network is owned CNN’s parent company. “voice actors have always been quite popular in Japan, but American culture is now becoming more aware of the artistic contribution of voice actors because of the swell in popularity of video games and animated films,” he said.

“Not only have both mediums been expanding their market penetration in America in recent years, but the maturity of the storytelling in each medium has grown as well,” Freeman said.

“This attracts an older audience that is more curious about the performers behind their favorite animation or video game character. It seems that as we see a convergence of film, animation and video games, American audiences will become more and more aware of the importance of voice acting.”

Patrick Seitz has a slightly different perspective. He got into voicing even more recently, in 2000, and is mostly involved with the world of video game voice work, as well as anime.

“I don’t know if voice acting is more respected, per se, but I do think it’s a higher profile pursuit than it was in decades past,” he said.

“Games progressing to the point where they can be fully voiced has opened a whole new sphere of awareness and fandom, and ever since the animated feature films got the idea to fill their casts with celebrities (for better or for worse), they’ve never looked back.”

But he certainly agrees with Cullen and Welker that online fandom for voice actors has been a game changer.

“It’s amazing how completely some of the fans have sussed out our vocal fingerprint, so to speak. I’ve had folks identify me based on nothing more than a roar.”

hE abraham Lincoln of popular perception is a mythological figure. he has little to do with the actual 16th president. For example, a popular film depicts a fictionalized Lincoln as having been opposed to slavery virtually from the cradle. his Confederate enemies, on the other hand, were minions of Satan. The reality was not so.

The trailer for Steven Spielberg’s “abraham Lincoln” shows Sally Field as Mary Lincoln lecturing her husband that no other american has ever been so beloved as he. in reality, as that sister-in-law of a Confederate general and sister of other Confederate soldiers had reason to know, no american president has ever been as hated as abraham Lincoln. his election led seven states to secede from the Union, after all, and four more withdrew after seeing his first few weeks’ performance in office. hearing Spielberg’s Mary Lincoln reminds one of h. L. Mencken’s appraisal of Lincoln’s most famous speech, the Gettysburg address. in that speech, on the occasion of a military cemetery’s dedication, Lincoln said: “We here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain, that this nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth.” Mencken, who possessed skill surpassing that of any other man in the art of the sardonic skewer, noted that the only thing wrong with Lincoln’s famous speech — held up ever since as the model of american oratory — is that: “it is difficult to imagine anything more untrue. The Union soldiers in the battle actually fought against

taylor Swift poses for photographers at cma awards 2012 red carpet.

self-determination; it was the Confederates who fought for the right of their people to govern themselves.” americans will generally have none of this. The typical american will accept only a Manichean world in which Good battles Evil endlessly. not for him the refinement of tragedy, of things lost along the way. Lincoln, idolized as the Great Emancipator after his death, must never have done any wrong. none of his accomplishment involved any kind of cost.

But in reality, life is not that simple. Before Lincoln’s election in 1860, the central precept of the majority political party’s creed was that the Federal Government had limited powers, while the states retained the rest. This was the chief quality distinguishing a federal system, such as in the USa, from a national one, like that of Great Britain. Lincoln’s victory in the Civil War involved the destruction of this principle.

Even before his election as president, Lincoln had in fact always stood for power in the central government beyond what the Constitution granted. in this, he followed the leader of the american Whig Party, sometime Senator and Secretary of State henry Clay of Kentucky.

Lincoln, born in Kentucky, first came to political prominence in neighboring illinois as a Whig state legislator. in that office, he campaigned for the kind of pork-barrel politics that made Clay such a formidable figure at the federal level.

Clay’s american System featured an integrated program of dirigisme focused on a congressionally chartered bank corporation, protective tariffs, and congressionally funded roads, canals, and bridges. Lincoln applied the System at the state level to good political

advantage. in general, supporters of this kind of program tended to be the people who expected to reap the benefits — such as denizens of western states like Kentucky and illinois, where roads would be built, citizens of the northeast, which was then the center of american industry, and residents of Philadelphia, where the Bank of the United States was headquartered. The only region essentially left out was the South.

For a politician on the make, this was an attractive program. Clay, its chief proponent, was a kind of political idol for many people — certainly for Lincoln. Upon the senator’s death in 1852, Lincoln gave a eulogy in which he made that point clear. he also identified himself with another plank of Clay’s platform. For many years, Clay had been president of the american Colonization Society.

That very popular civic group, of which expresident James Madison was the first president and onetime president John Tyler was also a prominent member, had as its goal the deportation of black people from the United States. it raised substantial funds and amassed significant political support in the name of paying for their transportation and resettlement. among its achievements was the foundation of the Republic of Liberia on the west coast of africa. in his eulogy, Lincoln trumpeted Clay’s service to the colonizationist cause. he called for the fulfillment of the american Colonization Society’s purpose, adding that if the Society succeeded, “it [would] indeed be a glorious consummation. and if, to such a consummation, the efforts of Mr. Clay shall have contributed, it will be what he most ardently wished, and none of his labors will have been more valuable to his country and his kind.”

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13 Amitabh is proud of Aishwarya’s French honour

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New twist in Ajay-Shah Rukh Khan war T HE war between Ajay Devgn and Shah rukh Khan has just escalated. responding to a news that Ajay’s lawyers have have lodged a complaint with the Competition Commission about the unfair means adopted by the production house to promote Jab Tak..., ayrF spokesperson said: “We would like to clarify at the outset that we still haven’t received any notice from the Commission and will suitably represent our stance if and when called upon to do so.”

The bone of contention here is the share of screens for Son of Sardar and Jab Tak..., both Diwali releases. According to Devgn, yrF had come to an understanding with theatre owners that Ek Tha Tiger and Jab Tak... would be made available to them as a package.

historians until very recently discounted the significance of this thread in Lincoln’s thinking.

Even though he got Congress to appropriate money for the purpose, they downplayed its significance to his record as president, and they insisted that even though he never said so, he had abandoned the idea by the time he issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.

Recent scholarship has proven that he continued to make significant efforts toward carrying out this plan at least until virtually the end of 1863. he certainly did not publicly disavow it in the few months of life that remained to him after that.

One might ask what in the Constitution empowered Congress to spend money on colonizing a particular racial group abroad. The answer would be “nothing.” That seems never to have occurred to abraham Lincoln, and therein lies a tale. henry Clay’s american System, with its national bank and public works, ran afoul of the traditional Madisonian reading of the Constitution. nowadays, neither Barack Obama nor Mitt Romney would let that slow him down, but 19thcentury americans took these things seriously. at its founding in 1854, the Republican Party stood for exclusion of slavery from the Western Territories. its 1860 platform reflected this commitment in its rejection of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857).

To this, however, it also added a full-throated endorsement of the american System, along with a pledge of corporate welfare to railroad corporations. (Lincoln had won fame and fortune as a railroad attorney.) interestingly, and perhaps surprisingly in light of today’s Lincoln myth, the 1860 Republican

yrF rubbished these claims, saying, saying exhibitors “were happy to play out yashji’s movie considering their long standing and emotional relationship with the banner and that a yash Chopra/ Shah rukh Khan movie, coming after a gap of eight long years, did not need any coercion for contractual screening.” refuting Devgn’s claims that yrF has taken up the lion’s share of screens, the spokesperson said, “of the 10,500 plus single screens available on an all-India basis, we have booked less than 1,500 single screens, an industry norm for an Alister movie. If this was an issue, why wasn’t it raised earlier?”

However, on Thursday, Ajay along with members from Eros International and viacom called a meeting with theatre owners at

platform also pledged “the maintenance inviolate of the rights of the states, and especially the right of each state to order and control its own domestic institutions according to its own judgment exclusively.” “Domestic institutions” meant “slavery.” The Republicans thus avowed their intention to leave slavery in the existing states to those states themselves to regulate. When in the next breath they said, “We denounce the lawless invasion by armed force of the soil of any state or territory, no matter under what pretext, as among the gravest of crimes,” they were disavowing any support for John Brown’s Raid or any other attempt by Yankees to spur servile insurrection in the South. Conservatives need not fear that Republicans were abolitionists. Yet, in response to Lincoln’s election in 1860, seven Deep South states seceded from the United States. They feared for slavery’s future with a Republican president. newS DeSK

Eros’ office asking them to give fair chance to his film.

A source said, “About seven to eight members from programming team of various multiplexes attended the meeting in which they were told by the actor and the distributor that they have made a good product and fair chance should be given to their film SoS in terms of showcasing of the film.” Multiplexes were indirectly told not to give into the pressure of the other banner and were promised that they would be provided proper marketing and publicity support if needed.’’ A friend of Devgn said that having invested rs 80 crore in the film and with no other dates available, he has no choice but to escalate his war. Despite repeated attempts Ajay remained unavailable for comment. COuRTeSy TOI

EGaSTaR amitabh Bachchan says he is proud that his daughter-in-law, actress aishwarya Rai, has been chosen to receive a civilian award by the French government for her contribution to the arts on her 39th birthday. aishwarya received the honour of prestigious ‘Knight of the Order of arts and Letters’ by Francois Richier, ambassador of France to india, here Thursday. “aishwarya celebrates her birthday and also a recognition by the French government. They confer on her the medal of honor for arts and letters, their second biggest award,” the 70-year-old posted on his blog srbachchan.tumblr.com. “Many years ago the French had decorated me with the Legion d’honor their highest medal and now the family prides itself with having two of the family gaining recognition from the French,” he further posted. The Knight of the Order of arts and Letters honour is given to people who have shown exceptionable contribution to arts in France and the rest of the world. in the past, noted celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and nandita Das have received the honour. newS DeSK

Sheen ‘splurging on drugs and hiring night escorts again’

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haRLiE Sheen has relapsed to his old ways and is snorting cocaine, smoking crack on a daily basis and is also boozing and procuring the services of high-end escorts, according to reports. an inside look at Sheen’s daily life from a close source who spent nearly every day with the former ‘Two and a half Men’ star reveals a lifestyle riddled with drugs, alcohol and high-end escorts. “For at least the last eight months or so Charlie has been having a quarter to half an ounce of cocaine delivered to him every single day and was spending nearly 2,000 dollars a day on drugs,” Radar Online quoted the source as saying. “Sometimes he’d even get two to three quarters of cocaine in one day. “he snorts it, he smokes it, and then he watches porn. and when he’s not watching porn, he’s hired high-end girls to come over,” the source said. according to the source, Sheen fancies one girl in particular and sometimes pays her anincredible 25,000 dollars per night to be with him. newS DeSK

Pattinson, Kristen Stewart back in magical phase

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CTOR Robert Pattinson who forgave girlfriend Kristen Stewart for cheating on him has reportedly again entered the romantic phase of relationship with her. Stewart, 22, was caught cheating on Pattinson with director Rupert Sanders. “They are not living with each other but they are spending plenty of time with each other and they do sleep over often. Rob usually sleeps over at Kristen’s new home in Los Feliz, rather than the other way around,” hollywoodlife.com quoted a source as saying. “They are in a really magical place right now despite some lingering trust issues on Rob’s side,” the source added. The couple started dating in 2008 with beginning of Twilight franchise.

They will soon be seen together in the last movie of the series Breaking Dawn 2. newS DeSK

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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Infotainment 14 could return 'better' samples, but they could collect better samples faster for sure. Is that enough to justify a human mission to Mars? I think that's the wrong question to ask," Hodges said. Instead, Hodges said it's whether or not the myriad non-scientific reasons for human travel to Mars will justify such a mission before a robotic sample return mission could be funded. "If the answer is yes, then, by all means, we could get great samples and including science should be a priority for that human mission.

Is there a science driver for human exploration of Mars that can be used as its sole justification?

Doubtful. Can it be argued that an unmanned sample return mission is imperative before we send humans? I really don't understand the logic behind that assertion," Hodges concluded.

Site selection

FUTURE MARS MISSIONS: Can humans trump robots?

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or decades scientists have backed the idea of sending robots to collect Martian rocks and return them to Earth, a project that should be possible well before humans crunch their boots into the distant dunes of the red Planet. The idea of landing, scooping up, and hauling back to our world specimens from that intriguing globe has long been endorsed as the Holy Grail of precursor missions by Mars exploration planners. This view was echoed in late September by a summary report from NASA's Mars Program Planning Group (MPPG). Former NASA program manager orlando Figueroa chaired the blue-ribbon team of MPPG members that were tasked to reformulate the agency's Mars Exploration Program. yet other experts question whether robots should do a job that might be better suited for human astronauts. An MPPG objective was to explore options and alternatives for creating a meaningful collaboration between science and the human exploration of Mars. More to the point, recent deep cuts in the budget for Mars exploration at NASA necessitated a reconsideration of the Mars robotic exploration program. Among the summary report observations, the MPPG found that Mars sample return architectures offer a "promising intersection" of objectives between the human spaceflight, space technology, and robotic exploration camps. In a press briefing showcasing the summary report, NASA's John Grunsfeld, associate administrator for the Science Mission Directorate, said that sample return represents the best opportunity to find technological synergies between the programs. "Sending a mission to go to Mars and return a sample looks a lot like sending a crew to Mars and returning them safely.

There's a parallelism of ideas there," he said.

quirement would be satisfied by a robotic mission to ascertain whether life exists on Mars, SchulzeMakuch said. "one of the greatest questions that needs to be solved before any human mission can be launched is whether there exists Martian life on Mars — both for the protection of the astronauts on Mars and planetary protection considerations the other way around — and this can be best addressed with in-situ robotic missions," Schulze-Makuch said.

Better and cheaper

Mobility on Mars

But is a robotic dig-and-dash Mars initiative a clear, hands-down, need-to-do effort that precedes human explorers strutting across the Martian landscape? And to what degree can rocketing back grabbag samples help decipher a long-standing, key question: Is there life on Mars? Another option is to bypass robot surrogates and let astronauts bring back the "Mars goods" themselves. Furthermore, who says the samples must be returned to Earth at all? "I disagree with the high priority on sample return," said astrobiologist Dirk Schulze-Makuch of Washington State University in Pullman. "our insitu [on-the-spot] capabilities are so much better nowadays than, let's say during viking lander (1970s) times," Schulze-Makuch said. "We could address with an in-situ mission whether microbial life is present on Mars." Sample return missions are so much more costly, Schulze-Makuch said, "and the only thing that would be advantageous, in my view, is to get an absolute age scale via radioactive dating of Martian rocks," Schulze-Makuch said, "but from an astrobiological viewpoint, [an] in-situ mission would be better and cheaper." A new NASA goal has stated that from now on any robotic missions should also help support future human missions. This re-

For Hodges, collecting the Martian "right stuff" means mobility on the planet is a pre-requisite.

"Whether the collection is done by teleoperated robots or humans on the surface, it is important to get multiple perspectives to establish detailed geologic context before sampling … and one can't do that with a simple lander because you'd be relying too much on luck, in my opinion," he said. But once you have mobility, the question is whether a human or a robot would be better at getting you the context, Hodges said. Could a human with boots on the surface do that? "Absolutely — that experiment has already been done here on Earth," he said. Hodges thinks a capable teleoperated robot could do that as well, given sufficient time. However, the geologist remains unconvinced that an autonomous robot would be able to do that anytime soon.

Thoughtful collection "For the foreseeable future, most science done on planetary surfaces will be geological and it should be viewed primarily as a field science enterprise," said Kip Hodges, director of the School of Earth and Space Exploration at Arizona State University in Tempe. Despite the successes of Apollo, the Mars Exploration rovers Spirit and opportunity, and now Curiosity, we really have very little experience with planetary field geology, Hodges said.

"In contrast, we have nearly two centuries of experience with field geology on Earth," Hodges told SPACE.com. "My perspective is that we should use the lessons we have learned here to inform how to get the most out of our rare opportunities to do planetary field geology on other worlds." When it comes to sample collection, Hodges said, terrestrial field geologists know better than to sample randomly, unless they have the capacity for many laboratory studies of many samples. "It seems highly unlikely that sample return from Mars will involve large numbers of samples or large-sized samples," Hodges said, "so thoughtful collection of the best, most scientifically informative samples is critical if the greatest science return is the goal."

Bottom line "The question of whether a robotic or human mission would provide better science return is great fodder for argument," Hodges said, moving to a bottom line assessment. "I don't know if a human mission, given the likely duration of a first mission,

Another consideration is whether a sample return mission to Mars might "flight qualify" a site prior to any human setting foot on the red Planet, proving that it's safe to send people in its wake.

"Absolutely not. Why should it be — to confirm that the site contains no pathogens? That's ridiculous," responded robert Zubrin, president of the Mars Society based in Lakewood, Colo. "The Martian surface can't support microbial life, because it can't support liquid water, and is bathed in ultraviolet," Zubrin told SPACE.com. "If there is life on Mars, it is underground, in the water table, which the Mars sample return mission won't reach." To understand the full impact of the "site prequalification" argument, Zubrin said "it must be noted that those who advance it say they want to do a sample return to assure NASA that a given site is free of native life before we send astronauts there. In fact, if Mars sample return or any other probe detected a site with life on Mars, that is exactly where any science-driven program would want to send astronauts." Zubrin said he views the prequalification argument for the Mars sample return mission as not merely wrong, but absurd. "If that argument is needed to justify Mars sample return, then that mission lacks justification, and should not be entertained," he added.

Alternative robotic missions Is sample return the best way to pursue the robotic scientific exploration of Mars, within the budget of NASA's Mars exploration program?

"Maybe," Zubrin said. "It is certainly possible to propose alternative robotic mission sets consisting of assortments of orbiters, rovers, aircraft, [and] surface networks … that might produce a greater science return than the Mars sample return mission, much sooner." Still, Zubrin said that if we are planning human exploration of the red Planet, human explorers can return hundreds of times the amount of samples, selected far more wisely, from thousands of times the candidate rocks, than a robotic sample return mission. "However, that said, if the scientific community really believes that a robotic Mars sample is so valuable that it is worth sacrificing all the other kinds of science they could do with the money, then it is imperative that NASA develop the most efficient Mars sample return plan, to allow the sample to be obtained as quickly as possible and with the least possible expenditure of funds that could be used for other types of Mars exploration missions," Zubrin said.

Dementia of bureaucracy In Zubrin's opinion, the recent MPPG summary report approach to a Mars sample return mission "is probably the unplanned product of the dementia of bureaucracy operating as a social disease, rather than the willful madness of any one individual."

The MPPG summary viewgraphs, Zubrin pointed out, seemingly outline a Mars sample mission conducted in eight parts that include: 1) preland a large rover to collect and cache samples; 2) dispatch a Mars ascent vehicle to Mars and perform a surface rendezvous with the rover or its cache of samples; 3) fly the Mars ascent vehicle to orbit the red Planet and rendezvous with a Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) spacecraft; 4) fly the SEP spacecraft back to near-Earth interplanetary space; 5) build a Lagrange point space station (Lagrange points are spots in space where the competing gravity of two bodies, such as the sun and Earth, cancels out); 6) fly astronauts to the Lagrange point space station; 7) dispatch astronauts from a Lagrange point space station to take the sample from the SEP spacecraft and return to the Lagrange point space station and; 8) have the astronauts return the sample from the Lagrange point space station to Earth. newS DeSK

Jury convicts man who shot and then sued a 90-year-old NOvATO AGenCIeS

A Marin County jury has convicted a burglar of two counts of attempted murder for breaking into the home of a 90-year-old man and shooting him in the jaw. The 31-year-old Cutrufelli now faces the possibility of life in prison. No sentencing date has been

set. Authorities say Cutrufelli, of Novato, was holding Jay Leone at gunpoint in January while searching Leone's Greenbrae home for valuables. Leone freed himself, got his handgun, and the two men exchanged fire. Leone was shot in the face and Cutrufelli was shot three times. Cutrufelli recently filed a lawsuit claiming the homeowner negli-

gently shot him, and caused him "great bodily injury, and other financial damage, including loss of Mr. Cutrufelli's home, and also the dissolution of Mr. Cutrufelli's marriage," according to SourceNewspapers.com.

Before the verdict, Cutrufelli's lawyer, Sanford Troy, told reporters that if his client is convicted, he might suggest dropping the suit. Authorities

say Cutrufelli, of Novato, was holding Jay Leone at gunpoint in January while searching Leone's Greenbrae home for valuables. Leone freed himself, got his handgun, and the two men exchanged fire. Leone was shot in the face and Cutrufelli was shot three times. Cutrufelli recently filed a lawsuit claiming the homeowner negligently shot him.

Psychics put to test by experts

T

wo professional English psychics, Patricia Putt and Kim Whitton, agreed to participate in a test designed by Professor Chris French, Head of the Anomalistic Psychology research Unit at Goldsmiths University of London. A university statement released on Wednesday explains how the study worked: The experiment -- which both mediums agreed was a fair and unbiased test of their abilities -- saw the volunteer psychics sat before five female sitters, who were required to remain silent and hidden behind a screen. The psychics were asked to write notes relating to the individual sitters.

In order to evaluate the accuracy of the psychics' information, each of the five sitters was then asked to distinguish their own reading from the four other readings. The psychics would have passed the test if all five sitters spotted their own reading. Four out of five sitters correctly identifying their own reading would have been considered scientifically interesting, while three or fewer constituted a failure of the test. Perhaps the so-called mind readers were off their game that day. "Kim and Patricia felt they'd have no trouble in passing this test," French said.

"Despite expressing confidence throughout the experiment, neither were able to gain more than a single correct reading, a result entirely consistent with the operation of chance alone." Still, Putt insists that the test didn't prove her powers as a psychic are a sham, the BBC reports. "I am sorry that I appear to have failed but not really surprised," Putt said.

"What I would like to point out is that the work I do is always done face to face so working 'blind' is extremely daunting for the medium. It is easier to explain the reading to the sitter verbally instead of the written word which, if it is their first time, most will not have understood." Whitton also remained confident in her super-natural talents.

"I know what I do is very real, it's easy for me," she said." I'm glad one of the sitters could recognize so many details about herself. Sceptics need to realize you cannot see, hear, feel everything as solid matter with the human eye, ear, and body. Psychics and mediums use a whole other part of the brain which is under-developed in the average man." Michael Marshall, vice President of the Merseyside Skeptics Society which co-organized the exam, suggested that those thinking of visiting a medium should find some other way to spend their hard-earned cash. "While the result of our experiment doesn't disprove psychic ability, the fact that our mediums couldn't pass what they felt was a very fair and simple test does seem to suggest claims that these abilities exist aren't based in reality," he said. "I'd also urge anyone who is thinking of visiting a medium or attending a psychic stage show to think twice, and to question whether their money might be better spent elsewhere." newS DeSK

Sandy photoshoot sparks controversy

B

rAZILIAN model and New york City resident Nana Gouvea took advantage of Superstorm Sandy's wreckage Wednesday, using New york's downed trees and destroyed cars as a backdrop for a number of seductive photos, EGo reported, which quickly went viral. Many Internet users, however, were not sufficiently seduced to not be appalled by Gouvea's apparent lack of respect for the climbing death toll and millions of families displaced by the storm, according to the Herald Sun. Gouvea's comments on the situation certainly did not help. She gushed to EGo about how much she loves hurricanes, saying they give her an opportunity to spend quality time with her husband, Carlos Keyes, who took the now-notorious photos. The photos have sparked a tumblr, Nana Gouvea em Desastres ("Nana Gouvea in Disasters"), which superimposes the brunette beauty onto other tragic scenes, including the sinking of the Titanic, the Hindenburg explosion and the death of Mufasa. newS DeSK

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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Saturday, 3 november, 2012

murray exits Paris, london cast complete Page 18

PCB to send security team to India LAHORE STAFF RePORT

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ELIEvED they might be at the revival of bilateral cricket ties with India but that would not stop the PCB from sending a delegation across the border to "take stock" of the security arrangements for Pakistan team's tour next month.

PCB chief Zaka Ashraf told reporters that the Board welcomed the BCCI announcement that it had got clearance for the tour that begins from December 25 -- the first bilateral contact between the two teams since late 2007.

"It is a great development and we are confident the revival of bilateral ties will also help improve relations between the two countries and increase people to people contact," he said.

The PCB chief said that since assuming office he had focused on restoration of bilateral ties with India

Ponting injury worry ahead of test

and efforts had paid dividends.

"We are happy to be sending our team to India and we are hoping this new beginning will continue on regular basis. The way I see it during the current tenure we have reached a unprecedented level of understanding with the Indian board."

"We don't see the series being played in India or Pakistan we just see it as a series to revive friendship," he added.

Ashraf, however, said that the PCB, after consultations with its government, would send a security delegation to India to asses the arrangements there.

"We have full confidence in the security and arrangements being made by the Indian board but the delegation will be going there to take stock and coordinate things with them," he said.

Ashraf also admitted that India had a influential role in International cricket and that is why he had pushed for the revival of bilateral ties.

"But nothing could be achieved

aussies use Pakistan asylum seeker SYDNEY

let's not harp on past, says home minister Shinde HYDERABAD AGenCy

Stating that sports should be kept free of politics, Union home minister Sushilkumar Shinde today said the Pakistan cricket team's tour of India next month should be welcomed.

"Any player from anywhere can come to India and play here. We cannot restrict.... We must have friendly relations. What has happened in the past, all the time we should not repeat it," Shinde told reporters after the passingout parade of Indian Police Service trainees at the Sardar vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy.

Asked about the opposition of the

Shiv Sena and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena to the tour, Shinde said, "Sportsmanship should be maintained.

Cricket as a sport is certainly welcome.

It should be free from politics."

He said if any meeting took place on the sidelines of the upcoming Interpol meeting in rome (from November 5), he would take up visa issues with his Pakistani counterpart, rehman Malik.

He said India had expressed its willingness to move ahead on the recently signed liberalised visa agreement. "regarding visa [matters], we are ready. But we are told that they [Pakistan] are not ready at the moment. I have asked our embassy people to find out what exactly the situation is."

without the understanding of the Indian board and governments," he noted.

"I hope in future their team plays in Pakistan , if the security situation improves (in Pakistan)," Ashraf said.

pakistan supports ICC’s initiative of day-night Tests

AGenCIeS

Australia has an unlikely weapon as it prepares to stave off a red-hot South African bowling attack -- a Pakistani asylum-seeker who will be helping batsmen ready for the Proteas.

Fawad Ahmed, who left his home in the border region near Afghanistan to come to Australia on a short-stay visa to play cricket in 2010, is awaiting news on whether his claim for asylum has been accepted.

In the meantime, he will be used by the Australian team for batting practice during the South Africa series because of the similarities in his bowling to the Proteas' leg-spinner Imran Tahir.

"I'm really excited and I think I can bowl well. It's good for them and it's good for me, that they have asked me to go there," Ahmed told the Sydney Morning Herald.

Ahmed is familiar with naturalised South African Tahir, having played against him when they were both in Pakistan's domestic cricket.

"We are the same height, with a high arm action, and we can both bowl a good wrong 'un," he said.

"His leg spin is bouncy, and I am like him, so it's good for the Australian batsmen to practise on my bowling".

Ahmed will be in Brisbane as a net bowler ahead of the Test starting on November 9, even though there is no guarantee South Africa -- with its powerful pace line-up -- will use Tahir at the Gabba. But Australian opener Ed Cowan, who pushed for Ahmed to be a net bowler, said it made sense to practise against him ahead of the contest against the world's number one Test side.

"If you're looking to prepare for someone who would have been hard to replicate, you may as well get someone who, to the naked eye, seems pretty similar," Cowan told the Herald.

india refuses entry to Pakistan bodybuilders LAHORE STAFF RePORT

LAHORE STAFF RePORT

SYDNEY AGenCIeS

Australian batsman ricky Ponting was pulled out of a Sheffield Shield game on Friday with a hamstring injury, just days before the in-form veteran is due to lineup against South Africa in the first Test.

The 37-year-old developed "some hamstring soreness during the game", Cricket Australia said of the former national skipper.

"This is a precautionary move to ensure ricky has the best possible preparation for the first vodafone Test against South Africa in Brisbane next week," said CA's team performance manager Pat Howard.

"We've opted to withdraw ricky from the game. If this wasn't a week out from the first vodafone Test then ricky would continue with the match, but we don't want to take that risk.

"We expect ricky to be fit for the first vodafone Test against South Africa."

Ponting has not played a Test since the West Indies last April but has put himself through a gruelling training regime to be ready for the Proteas.

It appears to have paid off with the Tasmanian scoring 350 runs at an average of 125.00 in his last three first-class games.

The first of three Tests against South Africa gets underway in Brisbane on November 9 before three Tests with Sri Lanka, also at home.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has welcomed the ICC's go ahead to day-night Test matches, calling it a "breakthrough" decision that would add value to the game. The executive coordination committee of the PCB which met yesterday to review and discuss the ICC decision, said it would allow member countries to increase the value of Test matches as a product. "The committee has welcomed the decision and noted that cricket at the moment is going through an evolution phase," a spokesman for the board said.

"The committee sees the decision to allow member countries to have day and night Test matches as a breakthrough," he added. The committee noted that Pakistan was the first full member country to have a day-night first-class match with coloured cricket balls.

"The PCB, not once, but twice experimented with having the final of the premier first class tournament under lights with coloured balls and on both occasions the response of the people and broadcasters was positive," spokesman Nadeem Sarwar said.

He said the PCB committee also felt that day-night Tests would allow people

to come and watch quality cricket in their spare time.

"The committee sees this as a value decision of the ICC," Sarwar said. reliable sources in the board were quoted by an Indian news agency that in the next few days the PCB chief might have talks with his South African counterpart on the possibility of a day-night Test match being played between the two countries from early next year.

"Pakistan and South Africa are both strong supporters of day and night tests so this could be a strong possibility if the South Africans respond positively," one source said.

The Indian government has refused to permit Pakistan’s body building team to participate in a regional championship, reports said on Friday. The South Asian Body Building Championship will take place in India from November 2-4.

Pakistan Body Building Federation had earlier sought permission for participation of its 15-member team in the event.

However, the team cannot take part in the championship as its members will not be issued visas after the government’s decision. Last year, the national team had clinched four gold medals in the same event held in Nepal.

India has refused to grant visas to Pakistan’s under-15 baseball team. The team intended to participate in the Asian Junior Baseball Championship, which will commence on November 5 in India.

Bangladesh likely to tour pakistan LAHORE STAFF RePORT

Bangladesh could tour Pakistan later this year after their new president, Nazmul Hassan, revealed that a letter was sent to the PCB, which confirmed such a possibility.

Hassan however, did not disclose the identity of the person who made such a commitment to their counterpart, but verified that essential steps will be taken in order to work out a feasible plan before deciding on whether to give the tour a go ahead.

Pakistan has not hosted an international team since the attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in 2009. They were

further deprived of co-hosting a couple of ICC global events, as the cricket governing body was concerned regarding the security situation in teh country.

"Since we have found out about the letter, we are considering whether it is mandatory to tour Pakistan or if there are any other options. If we go to Pakistan, we need to be assured of adequate security for our team,” Hassan said.

"Actually there are a lot of gaps in that letter, so we have to take all this into account and de-

cide if we want to go or not and if we do [decide positively], then we will go. I would call it a commitment, although it is just a one-line letter, but it is clear the BCB has decided."

Since the appointment of Zaka Ashraf, as PCB’s chief, the country managed to persuade a university XI side from Europe, following Bangladesh’s decision to postpone their tour, despite agreeing to come in the first place. The tour was shelved after the Dhaka High court ordered a four-week embargo

on the national team in April of this year.

Still PCB and other authorities kept on taking necessary steps to revive cricket, and a major breakthrough was made after a World XI, captained by former Sri Lankan skipper, Sanath Jayasuriya, decided to come to Pakistan for a two-match T20I series. However, that venture was solely carried forward by the Sindh government, following PCB’s reluctance to manage any of the arrangements.

If Bangladesh decides to tour Pakistan, it is highly unlikely that the series will take place later in the year after BCCI confirmed the itinerary for the Men in Green’s trip to India.

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Sports 16 PCB to send cricket greats to India LAHORE

t

STAFF RePORT

HE Pakistan Cricket Board will send ten former cricket greats to India on the occasion of visit of Pakistan cricket team to India in December. This decision was taken by Executive Coordination committee (ECC) of Pakistan Cricket Board which met here on Friday under the Chairmanship of its President, Mohammad Zaka Asrhaf has welcomed the announcement of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to host the Pakistan team in December.

“The ECC decided to invite the legends of Pakistan Cricket to witness the matches between India and Pakistan.

The committee noted that these cricketers have rendered valuable services for Pakistan cricket and are asset for not only PCB but for the country as a whole. These players will be goodwill ambassadors for Pakistan Cricket and can help in improving the cricketing relations between two countries. It was decided to invite two players for each venue,” said a spokesman of PCB here.

Following will be invited for the matches, Hanif Mohammad, Imtiaz

i’m fit enough to have another go at iPl: Gilchrist NEW DELHI AGenCIeS

Australian cricket legend Adam Gilchrist Friday confirmed he will be participating in the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

At the end of IPL-5, Gilchrist had said that the final game for the Kings XI Punjab would be his last in the Twenty20 tournament. But Tuesday, Gilchrist was among the 19 players whom Kings XI retained for the next season.

Gilchrist said he would honour the decision made by the franchise. “Franchises made the decision to keep me on the team list. yes, I had earlier said that I had played my last game but I think I’m fit enough to have another go,” he said during a promotional event for the University of Wollongong.

“Indications are I will be playing in the IPL 6.” Gilchrist’s announcement of calling time on his IPL career had left even the franchise stunned. He said his decision was spurred by the injury that forced him to miss a large part of IPL 5. Gilchrist is one of the seven internationals who have been retained by Punjab. Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, now a British citizen, Australians David Hussey, ryan Harris, Shaun Marsh, South African David Miller, and Englishman Dimitri Mascarenhas are the others.

Ahmad, Majid Khan, Zaheer Abbas, Mushtaq Mohammad, Imran Khan, Javed Burki, Wasim Bari, Intikhab Alam and Sadiq Mohammad.

“The committee members hoped that this tour will bring both the cricketing nations closer and will play an important role in strengthening the future relations between both the countries,” he said.

The ECC appreciated the tireless efforts made by PCB Chairman, Ch. Zaka Ashraf, for making this tour a reality as the bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan remained suspended for five years and since 2007 no bilateral series was played between the two countries.

The ECC also paid tribute to the President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari who is also the Patron of Pakistan Cricket Board for the staunch support that he provided being a great statesman. The committee acknowledged that for realization of this tour, after boardto-board understanding, an NoC from India government was required. The Honorable President played a key role in this regard.

The ECC also acknowledged the role of Foreign Secretary of Pakistan who raised this issue with his Indian coun-

Zaheer not happy with short Pakistan-india series LAHORE Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas is delighted to see Pakistan and India resuming cricketing ties after a long while, but expressed disappointment over the short duration of the series.

A few days ago, BCCI announced that the Green Shirts would visit India for a short limited-over series. The traditional rivals are meeting after a long time, and Abbas feels the duration of the series should be a bit longer.

"While it is a very good thing that finally bilateral cricket matches are being revived after nearly five years but the duration of the series has disappointed me given the importance of Indo-Pak cricket contests," he said in a television interview.

"Any bilateral contest is welcome but I would have thought that after such a long break, both countries should have played a proper Test series and found a

window for this in their busy schedules," he added.

"But anyway I hope that very soon the two boards will schedule a full Test series because it has been a long time since we played Tests against each other and that is the real challenge of cricket," he noted.

Another former Test skipper, Hanif Mohammad also expressed delight over the series. He welcomed the decision, and gave full credit to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for sending the side to India to resume the ties.

"It is a good decision although India has not come to Pakistan since 2006 but someone has to take the initiative and it is good we did it. Because I have always felt Indo-Pak cricket contests only further popularise the sport in the subcontinent and bring in new talent," Hanif said. on appointment of the batting coach for the national side, Zaheer Abbas, who himself is a member of the committee working on the shortlisted candidates for the post, described that the board should appoint a local person to do the job.

"I just feel that we should have a local person as batting coach because we have produced some great batsmen in our country and one of them can easily enough do the job for the national team," Zaheer said.

terpart in Secretary level meetings between the two countries.

The ECC also decided to assign

tasks to make necessary preparations for the tour. The National Selection Committee is given the task to finalize

the team for the tour while an advance party will visit India before the tour to oversee the tour arrangements.

STAFF RePORT

AOC wants members to declare history doping SYDNEY AGenCIeS

Australian olympic Committee president John Coates will propose that future Australian olympic team members sign a statutory declaration saying they have no "doping history."

"If they don't sign, they don't go to the games, they won't be selected. What I don't want is for the AoC to have egg on its face like cycling has," Coates said of his zero-tolerance approach.

He will put his proposal to the AoC executive board at a meeting later this month in Melbourne.

The move follows the resignation or firing of Australian cycling officials Matt White and Stephen Hodge. They admitted to doping earlier in their careers following the release of evidence in the Lance Armstrong doping case that saw

AGenCIeS

Persistent rain has forced Sri Lanka to move the next two contests of the fivematch one-day international series against New Zealand away from Colombo, the country's cricket board (SLC) said.

The matches on Sunday and Tuesday would now be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, SLC said in astatement "This decision was made considering the prevailing weather patterns and available ground conditions," the statement said.

"SLC will be constantly monitoring weather conditions forfurther review."

Heavy rain prevented any play in the first oDI between the two sides at Pallekele on Thursday while a one-off Twenty20match in the same arena ended without a result after just 16 overs could be bowled due to weather disruptions.

The final two matches of the series are expected to remain in the southern port town of Hambantota.

two weeks after he also lost his parttime job with Cycling Australia for admitting to doping during his racing career.

White, who was formerly professional men's coordinator with Cycling Australia, was mentioned in the Armstrong report and he confessed to doping while riding for Armstrong's US Postal team. on oct. 19, Cycling Australia vice president Hodge quit after admitting to doping during his time as a professional rider.

"During a stage of my career as a professional cyclist I took performance enhancing drugs — a decision I am not proud of," Hodge said.

Hodge raced as a pro in Europe from 1987 to 1996 with several teams, was appointed to the Cycling Australia board in 1999 and became vice president in 2007.

Tiger blames fatigue for missing Shanghai event

Sl move odis from colombo due to rain COLOMBO

the American rider lose his seven Tour de France titles.

If adopted it would affect athletes in contention for the 2014 Winter olympics in Sochi, russia, and the 2016 Summer olympics in rio de Janeiro.

Athletes, coaches and officials would all be required to sign the document.

"In my opinion we simply cannot allow the name of the AoC to be damaged, like that of the International Cycling Union, for not having taken every reasonable step possible to ensure that no person in authority on our olympic team has a doping history," Coates said.

The statutory declaration would form part of the Team Agreement that athletes, coaches and officials must sign before they are selected by the AoC. on Thursday, Australian professional road cycling team oricaGreenEDGE fired team director White,

SINgAPORE AGenCIeS

Tiger Woods said fatigue was the reason he skipped this week's World Golf Championship event in China.

As Australian Adam Scott and South African Louis oosthuizen grabbed the first-round lead at the $7 million event in Shenzhen, the 36-year-old Woods was holding a putting clinic for school children in Singapore.

The main sponsor had been unhappy Woods and world number one McIlroy chose to miss the WGC event despite being in the country and playing in a lucrative exhibition event.

Woods said he was looking forward to competing in the World Challenge in December, an invitational event he hosts in California, before putting his clubs away for a long rest.

"I was tired and doing these things (clinics) are easy. Competing and getting ready for another golf tournament, I just didn't want to do that," Woods said at Marina Bay after offering his expertise

to 12 selected teenagers.

"I've got four more rounds at my tournament in LA and I'm done until Abu Dhabi next year so I'm looking forward to having this extended break. This is my off-season now and I'm really looking forward to getting away from it.

"Competing and playing golf tournaments after a long schedule, the playoffs, the ryder Cup and a lot of other tournaments, it's been a while," he added of his need for a break after his first full season on Tour since 2005.

Woods, winner of 14 Majors before his marriage imploded in late 2009, lost to McIlroy by a shot in the exhibition dubbed 'The duel on the lake'. The American said he was happy with his year after returning from numerous injury problems.

"This year, I've had three wins and things are certainly progressing nicely," said Woods, who has been plagued by knee, back and Achilles injuries in recent years.

"Last year I was 127th on the (US PGA Tour) money list, or whatever I was, and this year I'm second so that's a pretty good improvement in a year and given that I'm healthy I'm really looking forward to next year.

"Four more opportunities at Major championships and with my game improving, I'm very excited about that for next year."

His three tour titles meant he overtook Jack Nicklaus for second place on the all-time US PGA Tour win list. But he remains four behind the 'Golden Bear' on Major titles as swing changes introduced by coach Sean Foley have yet to yield a major reward.

Oosthuizen surges into WGC-hSBC Champions lead

SHENHEN: Louis oosthuizen equalled the course record with a 63 to take a fiveshot lead at the halfway point of the WGC-HSBC Champions Tournament in Shenzhen, China.

The 2010 open champion's nineunder par round sees him at 16-under and clear of overnight co-leader Adam Scott who carded a 68.

The Australian was joined at 11-under by open champion Ernie Els who matched oosthuizen's 63.

South African oosthuizen had a bogey at the second but then picked up birdies at the third and fifth before an eagle at the seventh. A monster birdie putt on the eighth saw him draw level with Scott and that was the first of four consecutive birdies before he picked up further shots at 15 and 16.

“With this tournament I'm in a great

position to win it but it's not even crossed my mind at the moment,” said the world number 11.

"There's still a lot of golf to be played and I need to put myself in a great position going down the back nine on Sunday.”

"I played the par-5s really well and I think I was 6-under on them today. The rest was down to putting really well. I gave myself a lot of opportunities for birdie, and hitting fairways, hitting greens, and if you make the putts, you shoot a low number."

Els had seven birdies on the front nine as he went out in 29 to join Scott who had three bogeys on the back nine.

Scott said making up a five-shot deficit over the weekend would be difficult with a quality player like oosthuizen leading from the front.

The Australian kept pace with oosthuizen with four birdies in his first seven holes but then fell back with three bogeys on the back nine.

"Its tough chipping around these greens," he said. "There are quite a lot of run-off areas and it's tricky to judge how your shots are going to respond when you hit chip shots."

Jason Dufner (66) and Ireland's Shane Lowry (68) are tied for fourth at 10-under-par while Dustin Johnson (68) and Phil Mickelson (69) are one back at nine-under on the olazabal Course at Mission Hills. AGenCIeS

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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17 Sports hamilton fastest in first practice

aBU dhaBi: lewis hamilton drives on the abu dhabi race track to top the table.

ABU DHABI AGenCIeS

Lewis Hamilton headed Jenson Button as McLaren dominated the first free practice session for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Friday morning.

Hamilton set his table-topping 1:43.285s lap with 25 of the 90 minutes remaining, and beat his countryman and team-mate by 0.333s, with title protagonists Sebastian vettel and Fernando Alonso third and fourth.

More than 35 minutes had elapsed when most of the drivers took to the track, surface temperatures having exceeded 45 degrees Celsius by that point.

Jean-Eric vergne set the initial pace, and brought his marker down from 1:48.9s to 1:46.6s before valtteri Bottas, Michael Schumacher and Alonso took turns at the top, the latter in 1:45.1s with 50 minutes gone.

Championship leader vettel was the first driver to break into the 1:44s shortly afterwards, but his spell at the top lasted less than a minute as Hamilton took a lead he would not relinquish.

Button improved his time before the end of the session as Hamilton experimented with a number of different fuel settings during the final half-hour. vettel ended up third, despite the double world champion running wide at Turn 16 after getting his red Bull crossed up on the kerb at the corner's entry.

Ferrari driver Alonso, who had dropped to sixth, set his best time in the final minute of the session to climb back up to fourth, ahead of Mark Webber in the second red Bull and Michael Schumacher's Mercedes.

reception in honour of teams by Poa LAHORE STAFF RePORT

The Pakistan olympic Association will hold a reception here on November 4 in honour of Pakistan volleyball and jujitsu teams which won medals in international events recently. volleyball team won a silver medal in Sheikh rashid Al-Maqtoom International volleyball Tournament held at Dubai on october 4 – 9. Pakistan JuJitsu players got medals in Asian JuJitsu Championship held from october 18 - 22 in Iran, said a spokesman of PoA on Friday.

Jankovic wins second fed cup by BNP Paribas heart award MOSCOW AGenCIeS

The ITF Friday announced that Serbia’s Jelena Jankovic has become the first player to win two Fed Cup by BNP Paribas Heart Awards in recognition of her performance during Serbia’s semifinal victory against russia in Moscow in April.

Jankovic, who is unbeaten in Fed Cup for two years in singles and doubles, was instrumental in sealing Serbia’s place in its first Fed Cup by BNP Paribas Final.

The former world No. 1, who holds the record for the most Fed Cup singles victories for Serbia, won both her singles matches against russia, including the decisive third point against Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Jankovic, who previously won a Heart Award in 2010, was presented with a cheque for US$10,000, which will be donated to her chosen charity, the Child oncology Department at the Clinical Center of Serbia. The presentation was made by ITF President Francesco ricci Bitti after the draw ceremony for the 2012 Fed Cup by BNP Paribas Final at the old Town Hall in Prague.

Jankovic said: "I’m so honoured to be given this award for the second time. I love playing for my country and giving my best.

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

Murray exits Paris, London cast complete PARIS AGenCIeS

Andy Murray joined arch-rival Novak Djokovic in heading for the exit at the Paris Masters with an early-round loss on Thursday as the eight-man line up for next week's season finale in London was completed.

Third-seed Murray was spanked by towering Polish qualifier Jerzy Janowicz 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 as the Scot followed Dkjokvic in losing early at the last event of the regular season.

World number one roger Federer and injured number four rafael Nadal did not play the event.

Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga thrilled the home crowd with his defeat of Spain's Nicolas Almagro 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/3). That result put Serb Janko Tipsareivc into the eighth spot in the yearend field.

Tipsarevic made his own luck as he knocked rival Juan Monaco off with a 63, 3-6, 6-3 win.

London qualifier Tomas Berdych, the Czech fifth seed, came back to defeat South African Kevin Anderson 1-6, 6-3, 64. France's Michael Llodra ended an 11match indoor win streak for Juan Martin del Potro 6-4, 6-3.

Murray had never been beyond the Bercy quarter-finals and looked like having the perfect chance to fix that blemish in his record.

But beanpole Janowicz upset the form book with his huge serve, which produced 22 aces and 51 winners in just under two and a half hours.

"He played aggressive. He moves pretty good, serves very well. He's unpredictable," said Murray, who was heading

to London within hours.

"When you're on your serve (with a match point) you must close the match."

The 21-year-old winner scored the biggest success of his career on his second match point and fell to the ground with his hands over his eyes lying on the court in pure joy.

"This was the most unbelievable day in my life. I beat olympic champion, US open champion. I beat Andy Murray.

"It's an unbelievable feeling for me. I fell like in few minutes I'm going to wake up and it's gonna be everything gone.

"I don't know actually what I supposed to say because it's really hard to describe this feeling. It's not easy for me to believe what happened actually."

Murray did not want to predict how the exits of himself and Djokovic might affect their showings in London next week. "only time will tell really. A lot of the players will have had slightly different run-ins to the o2. obviously me and Novak lost early this week; roger didn't play, and then I think the rest of the guys are still in here," he said. "you never know, maybe the guys that go deep here they'll have confidence from having a good tournament. But they may arrive a little bit later and might take a while to get used to the conditions.

"I'll be in London tonight. I'll have some rest and I'll come back to practise on Saturday."

The defeat means that the quarter-finals will be the first in four years at a Masters 1000 not to feature at least one of the top four players. Janowicz had beaten a pair of top 20 opponents this week in number 19 Philipp Kohlschreiber and number 15 Marin Cilic, never facing a break point in those matches.

Wozniacki fights to victory over hantuchova

SOfIA: Top seed Caroline Wozniacki battled to a gritty 3-6 7-6(4) 6-4 victory in her Tournament of Champions match against Daniela Hantuchova in Sofia.

The Danish world number 11 lost the opening set and had to come through a tie-break in the second before sealing victory over the Slovakian world number 32. “It was a great match and I am really happy for my victory. Tomorrow I will enjoy my day off,” Wozniacki said. Wozniacki has now won all three of her matches and tops Group Serdika ahead of Italy's fourth seed roberta vinci, who has two wins in three matches after she beat Taiwanese fifth seed Hsieh Su-Wei 6-1 6-2 in a one-sided match. Second seed Nadia Petrova beat fellow russian and third seed Maria Kirilenko 3-6 7-6(4) 6-3 in the only Group Sredets match to be played on Thursday. The match lasted nearly three hours and the effort proved too much for Kirilenko, who afterwards pulled out of the tournament citing an upper respiratory illness. Her withdrawal means Petrova, top of the group with two wins from two, automatically qualifies for the semi-finals along with Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova. Those two will meet on Friday to determine who qualifies second from the group. Kirilenko said: "I'm very sorry that I cannot continue to play my matches here. It was such an honour to receive the wildcard ... unfortunately with this illness I can't finish the tournament as I'd have wished." AGenCIeS

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Sports 18

Shakeel sparkles in Punjab Open Golf LAHORE KhAwAjA PeRvAIz SAeeD‫‏‬

t

HE three-day and 54 holes Bank Alfalah Punjab open Golf Championship commenced at the par-72, Gujranwala Golf Course yesterday, in a way that can only be described as sparkling, as seventeen of the participating contenders produced under par rounds, which definitely is a source of delight and indicates how well our professional golfers are maturing.

Just a decade back under par rounds were a rarity and once in a while when an under par round did come up, it used to become a talk amongst the golfers. Another unusual happening at the end of the first round was that an unheralded one, Shakeel Sayyaz of Islamabad, chose to head the field of many accomplished ones by playing superbly and producing a masterly round of four under par 68.Excelling on every shot he carded birdies on holes 4, 6, 10, 13 and 14 and managed regulation pars on twelve holes. There was a bogie too but only a lone one on the 7th hole and with five birdies up your sleeve it does not bother the competitor who is already brilliance loaded. "I just loved each moment," he said "and in the remaining two rounds seek the support of my mothers prayers and families good wishes, as a good victory can relieve us of many financial problems".

A few other contenders who surface as the perfect ones are Mohammad Munir (Islamabad), M. Nazir (Islamabad) and Talat Ijaz (Gymkhana),with similar score of three under par 69. of course Mohammad Munir is an undisputed champion and even after a hec-

tic appearance in six segments of the MENA Golf Tour in UAE he was bursting with energy and looks all set to show his dominance. The other two

Talat Ijaz and Mohammad Nazir are all out to get noticed and although they been striving for honors since long, this kind of a breakthrough where they started as front runners has been missing. It was nice to see Talat displaying consistency in all aspects of the game. "This is my moment of glory and I will make the best of it on this wonderful golf course."

At a score of 70 are Sunny Masih, Anser Mahmood and Karrar Hussain Changezi and at 71 are Javed Inayat, Mohammad Tariq, Mohammad Javed, Mohammad Sohail, Tahir Nasim, Mohammad Asif, Khalid Khan, Amjad yousaf, Latif rafiq and another Asif. All of them demonstrated good hitting but the putting did not favour them. The putts kept staying out though they lipped the holes. Not too wonderful but with par rounds are two accomplished ones, Matloob Ahmed and Shafiq Masih. They have the ability to become frontrunners over the next two days.

This championship was inaugurated by Maj Gen Zubair Mehmood Hayat, GoC 15 Div, through a splendid looking tee shot, on Friday morning. Lt Col Asgher Mehmood, Secretary, Gujranwala Golf Club advises that ladies and senior professionals will tee off on Saturday and the prize money for seniors section is rs 250,000. There is a prize of a car for a hole in one.

thorpe frustrated by constant questions

ennis will 'go for gold' in Glasgow

SyDNEy: Australian swimming great Ian Thorpe has hit out at the innuendo surrounding his sexuality that has followed him for much of his career, and said the most frustrating thing was the implication that he would lie about it. "The thing I find hurtful about it is people are questioning my integrity and what I say... that this is something that I would be embarrassed about, or I would hide," he said in an interview with ABC Tv. "I don't want to offend anyone, whether they're friends that are gay or whatever else, by getting angry about it, frustrated about it.

"The only part of it I find frustrating is that people think I'm lying." The five-times olympic champion said speculation that he was gay had perhaps arisen because he did not fit into the stereotypical idea of how a successful Australian athlete should behave. "I behave differently, I guess, I like different things," he added. "I'm a nerd, I'm just someone who just happened to be good at a sport as well... I like beautiful things in the world, I like the aesthetics of those things." Thorpe is promoting his autobiography, "This is Me", in which he reveals that he has also struggled with severe depression and had on occasions considered suicide and turned to heavy consumption of red wine to manage the illness. AGenCIeS

gLOSgOW AGenCIeS

olympic champion Jessica Ennis is desperate to complete her full set of medals by going for gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, according to coach Toni Minichiello.

Ennis has never won Commonwealth gold after claiming bronze in Melbourne in 2006 and skipping the event in Delhi in 2010 as compatriot Louis Hazel topped the podium.

But Minichiello, who masterminded the 26-year-old’s magnificent London 2012 display that saw her to claim gold at her first-ever olympics, insists Ennis has her sights set on glory at Hampden Park in two years time. "Jessica will be at Glasgow 2014 - definitely," he said. "That is absolutely the competition plan for us looking ahead. "She has not won the Commonwealth title before. It will not be easy in Glasgow, either."

The 2014 European Championships in Zurich follow on only two weeks after the Commonwealths but, despite the packed schedule, Minichiello is adamant that completing her medal collection remains Ennis’ priority. "It is tight in terms of the schedule but we certainly intend to come to Scotland," he added. "There are Canadians and Australians who can step up to the mark there so it will be good competition.

"In fact, I've already said to Jessica she should delay her retirement in order to take in the Commonwealth Games in 2018 - but perhaps that's because I would quite like a trip to the Gold Coast in Australia."

watch it Live ESPN Sports Center 07:30PM

tigers beat khyaban-e-amin in veteran t20 LAHORE STAFF RePORT

Lahore Tigers beat Khyaban-e-Amin by 6 wickets in a match of the Amar cables T-20 veteran cricket tournament here on Friday at Shah Faisal cricket ground.

Brief scores, Khyaban-e-Amin batted first 148/7 in 20 overs. Ijaz Ahamd 39,Hira Ashfaq 34, Maqsood raza 23 & Faisal Peer Zada 16 runs not out, Lahore Tigers bowling Tahir Irshad 3/25, Ismaeel-ur-rehman 2/28, Muhammd Faiz 1/26 & Saadat Ali 1/32, wickets. In reply Lahore Tigers answered with 152/4 in 19.1over Muhammd yakoob 19, Zaheer Iqbal 15, Saadat Ali 38 not out & Muhammad Muneer 46 runs.

Khyaban-e-Amin bowling Bilal rana 1/30, raza Jaffri 1/19, Ameer Ali 1/14 & Hira Ashfaq 1/5 wickets . Irfan Dilshad and Adnan rasheed were umpire & Waris Basheer was the scorer .End of the match Chief Guest Atta-ur-rehman former Test Cricketer give away man of the match award jointly to Muhammad Muneer & Khalid jamshed is also present.

PcB receives reply of lcca secretary LAHORE STAFF RePORT

Pakistan Cricket Board has received the reply from Secretary, Lahore City Cricket Association, Mian Javed Ali of the fresh notice issued to him in connection with the show cause notice for violating PCB’s code of conduct. “yes, we have received his reply today, Friday, and we expect to reach a decision in week time “,said Shafiq Papa , general managerdomestic, PCB here.

Javed was issued a show cause notice by PCB on September 27 for his undue criticism on the working of Lahore City Cricket Association and its President, Khawaja Nadim Ahmed. Javed submitted a reply of show cause last month which was termed un-satisfactory by the PCB. Javed was served with a fresh notice in which his explanation was sought on 15-points. “ His detailed reply will be examined by the concerned authorities and we hope to reach a decision in a week time “,he said.

To a question, PCB official said it is premature to say what decision will be taken but pointed out that PCB has zero tolerance on such issues. He said the delay in the matter was due to the late reply of LCCA Secretary which is a routine in such cases. “ It has seen that individuals involve in such cases usually submit their reply not on time “,he said adding “ We are looking into the matter carefully and whatever decision will be taken will be communicated”.

Khan backtracks after Roach-Parkinson's comment LONDON AGenCIeS

Amir Khan has been forced to clarify comments in which he appeared to cite former trainer Freddie roach's Parkinson's disease as a reason for their split.

Khan began working with roach after a devastating loss to Breidis Prescott in 2008. In the same stable as pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao, the Bolton-born fighter began to fight regularly out of the US, rehabilitated his career, and became a world champion under roach.

However, he split with the coach after a controversial defeat to Lamont Peterson was followed by a devastating loss to Danny Garcia in July, when he was stopped in four rounds. He said of roach: "It’s hard to see him older and getting worse. Freddie, with the Parkinson’s disease, he was struggling with instructions and couldn’t move as well." roach, who has been named trainer of the year for three of the last four

years, hit back at Khan's comments, saying that his camp had asked him to concentrate on Khan solely before then leaving his stable.

"If that was true (that my Parkinson's was an issue), why would he say to me fire Manny Pacquiao and (Julio) Chavez Junior and they would keep me?” said roach in response to Khan's comments.

"Him, his father, his lawyer and his uncle all said that. It had nothing to do with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s had nothing to do with it. They know that. And I wish them the best of luck."

After being criticised for bringing up the Parkinson's, Khan looked to backtrack and clarify his relationship with roach on Twitter. "Hey guys I didn’t say @Freddieroach is a bad trainer, he’s 1 of the best out there and took my career to a high winning 2 world titles,” Khan wrote.

"I blame myself for the losses in my career. Not blaming @Freddieroach or anyone. I just needed a change.”

The 25-year-old will make his first appearance under the tutelage of his new coach – virgil Hunter – against Carlos Molina in Los Angeles on December 15th.

Hunter was voted trainer of the year in 2011 after helping Andre Ward to win the Super Middleweight 'Super Six' championship with a dominant points victory over Britain's Carl Froch.

Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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Saturday, 3 November, 2012

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ttP declares war on MQM

LAhORe: Police personnel stop a man who was trying to hand over his complaint to former prime minister yousaf Raza Gilani outside the press club on Friday. The man identified as Rajib Ali has set up a protest camp outside the press club for the last four years in search of justice. ONLINE

post-storm anger grows, especially outside manhattan NEW YORK

Courts will continue to provide relief to masses: CJ

AGenCIeS

Frustration grew for superstorm Sandy’s victims in the U.S. Northeast on Friday, many of whom were left with no power, no gasoline and little information about when their shattered lives might return to normal. While Manhattan prepared to host the annual New york City Marathon on Sunday, acute gasoline shortages in the city’s storm-battered outer boroughs and New Jersey led to long lines and short tempers. Tankers finally began entering New york Harbor on Thursday, and a tanker carrying 2 million barrels of gasoline arrived at 2 a.m. (0600 GMT) on Friday, New york Governor Andrew Cuomo said.

Sandy, which brought a record storm surge to coastal areas, killed at least 102 people after slamming into the U.S. Northeast on Monday. Forty-one died in New york City, about half of them in Staten Island, which was overrun by a wall of water. Starting before dawn on Friday, long lines of cars snaked around gasoline stations around the area in scenes reminiscent of the energy shortage of the 1970s. “The police are stopping people who are trying to cut in the line,” said Steven Golub, 53, an attorney who waited in line for hours at a Manhattan gas station. “There’s no gas anywhere else.

There was a guy with diplomatic plates who tried to cut in the line and one of the cab drivers complained so the police actually stopped him.” Police were in place at many spots to keep the peace between furious, frustrated drivers. In one instance, a man who attempted to cut in line was charged with threatening another driver with a gun on Thursday in the borough of Queens.

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AGenCIeS

HIEF Justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry on Friday said the courts would continue to make efforts to restore justice and provide relief to the masses.

Addressing a ceremony at the Sargodha District Bar, Justice Chaudhry said the movement for restoration of an independent judiciary had proved that no martial law would be imposed in the country in future.

He said the lawyers’ movement led to the restoration of the judiciary and the fruits of independent judiciary should reach the masses. The CJ said the lawyers’ struggle had sent a message that neither martial law nor emergency would be imposed in the

future. He stressed on the need for dispensation of instance justice to the masses, calling it an attribute of Allah

Almighty. The chief justice said those who were chosen to dispense justice were special people, but this also put lot of responsibility on their shoulders.

“People expect a lot of hard work from you and it is your duty to come up to peoples’ expectations and dispense justice in an expeditious manner,” he told lawyers and judicial officers.

He said since pay and packages of judicial officers had been increased, they should leave no stone unturned in discharging their duties in a fair and dedicated manner. The CJ also assured them that pays of the staff would also be increased in due course of time. He noted with concern that the rate of disposal of cases in Punjab had registered a decline which was not a good sign.

“There is a need to remove laxity to improve disposal rate.”

ISLAMABAD: Taliban have decided to target the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) activists in order to topple the MQM government, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan said on Friday. In an email to media organisations, Ehsan said the TTP was following the teachings of the Sharia so it was obligatory on the fighters of TTP to fight against the MQM, which was the “organisation of infidels” who had imposed a reign of terror in Karachi. “To avenge the killing of innocent citizens of Karachi, the TTP will not spare MQM members,” he said. Ehsan asked the leaders of Balochistan and Sindh-based separatist organisations – the Baloch Liberation Army and the Sindh Liberation Army – to continue their struggle for their due rights against the incumbent government according to the teachings of Islam. He advised both separatist organisations to follow the path of Islam because Islam assured rights to each and every individual, asking both the organisations to surge their struggle against the government.

The TTP spokesman urged all judges, including the chief justice of Pakistan, to work for the implementation of Sharia in the country. He said the TTP would formulate its course of action for the forthcoming general elections in Pakistan after the government announced the schedule. “The TTP will divide the political parties in Pakistan into three categories in their future strategy for the next general elections,” Ehsan said.

MQM chief Altaf Hussain on Thursday directed the party’s Coordination Committee to announce a date for holding of a public referendum as soon as possible. The MQM chief said public opinion should be gathered from Karachi to Khyber and from Khyber to Balochistan and Azad Kashmir to GilgitBaltistan. “People should be asked if they wanted Quaid-e-Azam’s Pakistan or Taliban’s Pakistan,” he said. STaff rEpOrT

4 cricketers put on notice for rs 80m tax evasion LAHORE: Four cricket players have been issued notices for tax evasion, Federal Board of revenue officials said on Friday. Shahid Afridi, Abdul razzaq, younis Khan and Umer Akmal have been served notices for evading as much as rs 80 million rupees in taxes.

According to FBr officials, other players of the Pakistani team were also being investigated. The four players owe FBr in taxes stemming from their match fees and earnings from endorsements. STaff rEpOrT

PPP, PMl-Q to field joint candidates in elections LAHORE APP

T he Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) have agreed to field joint candidates in the upcoming general elections.

This was stated by PPP Punjab President and Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Manzoor Wattoo and PML-Q senior leader raja Basharat in a press conference after a meeting of the liaison committee of both

parties on Friday.

Wattoo said the liaison committee discussed various issues related to elections and reached a consensus that the alliance between both parties would continue as per the vision of the leadership of the PPP and PML-Q. He said the representatives of both parties were in harmony on the issue of jointly contesting the upcoming polls.

Wattoo said both parties would not individually field candidates across the province and the electable candidates from

Published by Arif Nizami at Plot No 79, Sector 24, Korangi Industrial Area Karachi.

both sides would be given a ticket for national and provincial assembly elections after mutual discussion. The PPP Punjab president said no party would be deprived in the distribution of tickets as the committee had in principle decided the parameters for the purpose. Talking to the reporters, PML-Q’s Basharat said both parties would field suitable people in the elections with consensus. He expressed the resolve that the alliance of both parties would win elections and serve the masses.

Basharat said there were no differ-

Editor: Arif Nizami

ences between the PPP and PML-Q regarding the distribution of seats among candidates and a procedure was prepared for this purpose. Earlier, the liaison committee meeting was held at the Governor’s House with Wattoo in the chair. Punjab Governor Latif Khosa, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira, Federal Minister Nazar Muhammad Gondal, PML-Q leader Moonis Elahi, Basharat, Senator Kamil Ali Agha and PPP Punjab General Secretary Tanvir Ashraf Kaira attended the meeting.