17 JAN 2016
Issue 14
FREE N AT I O N A L
Britain’s FIRST FREE Sunday Newspaper
Black magic, spells, charity and the empty promises of fake faith healers 14 Diabetes reaches crisis levels in the UK
Asian Sunday campaigns to raise awareness of fake faith healers We hear one shocking story after a family lost almost £70,000
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Women in History: Parveen babi
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Pakistan a deeply misunderstood country
See more on pages 6 & 7
The Desi kitchen
Coming soon…
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
NEWS Britain’s FIRST FREE Sunday Newspaper
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Bihar Government of India imposes a Samosa Tax The government in one of India’s poorest states is to tax samosas as a “luxury”, it’s been reported. The administration in India’s northern Bihar state has included the humble snack on a list of 23 items that will be taxed at 13.5 per cent. Among the other items on the list, which was approved in a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, are mosquito repellent, cosmetics and all sweets costing more than 500 rupees ($7.50; £5.20) per kilo. The extra revenue raised by the tax will help fund development projects in the state,
according to Indian reporters. Described by Unicef and the World Bank as one of the country’s poorest states, Bihar is in the process of receiving a development package worth 1.65 trillion rupees ($24.7bn; £17bn) from the national government for projects including road, rail, power, and gas supply, according to reports from the Economic Times (Mumbai). It is rumoured that the tax has come about due to an anticipated revenue shortfall because of the ban on liquor from April 1
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Cadbury is opening a threefloor Creme Egg cafe in London with Creme Egg toasties and a ball pool
Civil liberties campaigner to quit role at rights group Liberty Civil liberties campaigner Shami Chakrabarti is to quit her role at campaign group Liberty.
For seven weeks only, Cadbury is set to open the doors to the World’s first Cadbury Creme Egg cafe on Greek Street, in London’s Soho on January 22.
And once you’ve had your fill of all that Creme Egg, you can head to the third floor, where there will be a ball pool. Imagine this scene, but with Creme Eggs.
The first floor will host a sit down cafe serving such delights as the melting Creme Egg toastie (golden toast, sandwiched together with a deliciously gooey Creme Egg, which you can order to go), Creme Egg and soldiers, Creme Egg tray bake, and, for the sophisticates, mini Creme Eggs and strawberries.
The Creme Egg café will be open at 26 Greek Street from 22 January until 6 March on Fridays between 5pm – 9pm and Saturdays and Sundays between 2pm – 6pm.
Under her leadership, Liberty, which was founded in 1934, has campaigned on issues such as stop-and-search powers and compulsory ID cards.
You’ll be able to reserve a table in the cafe from Monday January 18 on Eventbrite, with limited walk-ins available.
The 46-year-old will remain in her role until a successor is appointed.
How will you eat yours?
Ms Chakrabarti described her 12 years as Liberty’s director as an “enormous privilege”, and said she was leaving the group “stronger than ever”.
Liberty said recruitment for her replacement would begin in the coming weeks. During her time at its helm Ms Chakrabarti has
been a constant defender of the Human Rights Act. Ms Chakrabarti once wrote that she became a lawyer after reading the novel To Kill A Mockingbird, saying the novel had had a “profound effect on me”. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Twitter that she was “sad to see” Ms Chakrabarti stand down, describing her as having “been a superb champion of human rights”. Labour MP for Holborn and St Pancras, Keir Starmer, who is the former director of public prosecutions, congratulated Ms Chakrabarti and said she had transformed Liberty.
Guide LIFESTYLE Issue 14
TOP TIP FOR SKIN It’s not just women
men can also banish spots, signs of ageing and dry tight skin. The products we all shouldn’t go without
ASIAN SUNDAY | ISSUE 46
Your guide to the best eateries in Bradford & District
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ASIAN SUNDAY by ZARA HASSAN
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THREE FOODS TO TRY AN AVOID NEWS DURING FASTING
Through the decades, every era has had its own particular fashion trend focusing on prints and styles. We can now
If you’re planning on buying vintage I think you should always start small, shop with something in mind.
Bradford Couple Charged With Terrorism Offences
Tim Peake’s historic
Three foods you’ve been item, told are ‘healthy’ that actually and can cause seriouspiece health in my opinion would be aincrease coat. It’sweight something small yet amore statement toproblems. introduce to your other clothes.
cleanser, a good face Spacewalk ends early w•asConcentrated h and an exfoliorange ator. juice – Most concentrated juices can cause problems around the waistline, which include, cranberry, apple and other fruit juices. Friday’s main task was completed done. ious elements outif of the fruit during the concentration You should also invest Buying vintage doesn’t mean designer labels but you’re into designer labels look process. for Dior, from the 50’s or Gucci and successfully, water in Tim water. So contrary to what adverts say it is believed starting your day with a big but glass of concentrated juice is a in an eye cream just to But there was one glitch the really bad decision. Kopra’s helmet meant the brighten that area that astronauts could not solve on astronauts were ordered. back will be gentle to skin. the fly. A water leak into Kopra’s
• Margarine, is another fat storing but has more serious health It canon cause you tostreet gain weight, out yourpiece goodinto cholesterol increase bad cholesterol by A greatfood, modern fashion piece that werisks. still see our high and is wipe a timeless is leopard the ISS,print. leavingyour work undone helmet forced Nasa controllers building up blockages in your arteries. Butter is a better alternative. Butter has fat in it too, but it’s a saturated fat that your body can burn for fuel instead of building up blockages Images as early as those from ancient Egypt show women rocking leopard spots. to abort the spacewalk two hours Britain’s first European Space in your arteries, like trans fats can do. PRODUCT early. The men were ordered Agency astronaut began his OF THE inside, having completed their • At number three it’s whole wheat bread. Are you as shocked as we were? Bread is High in Carbs and Can Spike Blood Sugarmaiden Levels spacewalk shortly WEEK A Even husband and wife from – Preparation of Terrorist was intelligence led and there main task, but leaving others before 1pm on Friday as the whole grain bread usually isn’t made out of actual “whole” grains. Bradford appeared via video Acts* is no evidence to suggest undone. The incident echoed a orbiting station soared 250 miles Leopard prints always represent power and femininity, pin up girls like Marilyn Monroe celebrated glamour and sexuallink January 8, before that any communities By and the time Theon starches in bread get broken down quickly in the digestive tract and enter the bloodstream as glucose. are This at causes a rapidabove spike Australia. in blood sugar insulinhe levels. more serious situation in July Ijaz too. Khan was arrested in ity inblood this way the Oldwhole Bailey charged with 2013 when European astronaut returned inside, he had circled Even wheat bread spikes sugar faster than many chocolate bars. immediate risk in connection February 2015Fashion fordigested offences In his Little Dictionary Christian Dior saidthis “But tosugar wearand leopard must have alead kind which is a little Most breads are the made of pulverized wheat. They areofeasily and rapidly spike blood insulin you levels, which can toof thefemininity blood sugar “rollerLuca Parmitano had a sudden offences under Terrorism with operation. the planet atnotorious least three times under the Terrorism Act at are the main foods you eat for Suhoor (The Pre-Dawn Meal). coaster” and stimulate overeating. Well, you’re probably allfair thinking bit sophisticated. If you are and those sweet, don’t wear it...” Act. rush of water leak into his and witnessed six stunning Manchester Airport. or sunrises. Be sure to choose yourself something leopard print from the rails next time you’re on thesunsets high street, add a bit of glam into helmet.
Here are27 some tips Ijaz Khan, years, is for a healthy Suhoor Afsheen your wardrobe withKhan a leopard print dress, a shirt, a cardigan and even some trousers (ifEmerging you’re daring fun charged with: fromenough). the QuestHave airlock was arrested in Suhoor (The Pre-Dawn Meal) into the darkness of Earth’s with it and remember always try it on before you buy. One Section October 2015 Foroffence suhoor, itunder is imperative to drink plenty of water, eat afor good blend of protein, carbohydrates, and essential fat. That’s right, “good fats” Peake have many fat-burning shadow, joined Nasa’s and muscle-building properties, and their impor5 of theisTerrorism 2006 under tance even greaterAct during Ramadan.offences Some good suhoorthe foods include: Tim Kopra for more than four Kind to Eyes -Simple Preparation of Terrorist Terrorism Act from hours of challenging work. • her Protein shake • Raisins or dates • Olive oil – preferably extra virgin (which means it’s cold processed and the Soothing Cream, Acts* home address. • Egg whites (1 yolk) £3.99 from Boots. • Chicken breast
Afsheen Khan, 27 years, is • Oatmeal charged with: Use all these products • Cream of wheat
daily offence or as advised One under Section you’llTerrorism be amazed Act 2006 5and of the to how great your skin looks and feels. Also, remember to drink lots of water!
Under the direction essential fatty acidsof areground preserved) staff in Houston, • Plenty of waterthe astronauts overcame snagged tethers, a brief carbon dioxide scare, and North East Counter a torn glove before the day was Terrorism Unit, It is important to take a solid multi-vitamin, multi-mineral supplement with suhoor as well to make sure daily minimum requirements of key nutrients are met. Avoid high sodium foods like soups, sauces, condiments, gravies, high sodium bread products, and canned meats. Of course eating fried foods and heavy oil items can cause heartburn and problems for you all day so it is best to avoid those if possible!
• Cinnamon investigation, • The Bananas carried by • Raw, darkout Honey
• Fibrous vegetables –This will help increase the feeling of fullness as well. • All natural peanut butter • Flax seed oil –
WEIGHT LOSS REVIEW- WAZN
Bradford man sets on a mission to help Bradford become more health aware. “I am a big fan of Dr Qazi’s work and that’s why I want to introduce his non-surgical solutions manto sets on a mission to helplocal BradBradford”, explained ford businessman become more health Yasseraware. Khan, and “I am a big fan of Dr Qazi’s work and that’sBeauty why I want to introduce his Doctor range of treatments, which includes ‘WAZN’ non-surgical solutions to Bradford”, Dr Daud is a medical pracexplained localQazi businessman Yasser titioner with licence to practise in UK, Europe, Middle and famous Beauty Doctor rangeEast of treatAsia including Pakistan. HisDaud ments, which includes ‘Wazn’ Dr interest in medical research Qazi is a medical practitioner with has enabled him to latest state licence to practise in bring UK, Europe, Midof art technologies. dle East and Asia including Pakistan. Working and living in UK, he His interest in medical research has observed the need for Non-Surenabled him to bring latest state of gical procedures to improve the art technologies. Working livhealth and well beingand of patients ing inespecially UK, he observed the need Asian populationfor as Non-Surgical procedures to improve they are more vulnerable to the health beingillnesses of patients acute and and well chronic than especially Asian population as they are their counterpart White populamoretion. vulnerable to acute and chronic illnesses thanistheir counterpart White Dr Qazi amongst the pioneers who introduced latest technolopopulation. giesisofamongst IPL andthe Radio FrequenDr Qazi pioneers who cy andlatest Ultrasound integrations introduced technologies of IPL into UK and especially in Asian and Radio Frequency and Ultrasound community. His quest for knowlintegrations into UK and especially edge and research furthered in Asian community. His quest for him to and launch his own health knowledge research furthered & Beauty product range. This him to launch his own health & Beauty includes Dietary supplements, product range. This includes Dietary Vitamins & Minerals, Skin & Hair
certain ailments and diseases of body. His unique formulations GMP approved laboratories in USA and has made him pioneer Skin & Hair care products and products products around the globe. for certain ailments and diseases "WAZN" weight loss manage- of body. programme His unique formulations has been ment is the start of products list. laboratories in many USA and has made him “There are so health products and diet plans on the market where you have productstoday, around the globe. "WAZN" to make major lifestyle changes, Each capsule helps: programme Each Weight loss management capsule helps: such drinking shakes *Burn is theas start of products list.etc” *burn fat, fat *Boost metabolism, said Yasser “There are so many health products *boost metabolism, * Increases your energy “People simply haven’t got the energy and diet plans on the market today, * increases your level time these days, so in my opinwhere you have to make major lifestylelevel * Improves digestion ion WAZN is the answer. changes, such as drinking shakes etc”* Improves digestion * Prevents weight gain. “People like my mum won’t go to weight gain. said Yasser. “People simply haven’t got* Prevents However, WAZN is not the gym, so that’s why Dr Qazi However, WAZN is not prethe time these days, so in my opinion prescribed as an off the produced WAZN, it was created scribed as an off the counter Wazn the answer. “People like my counter weight loss prodto helpistackle obesity, without weight loss product, but mum won’t go lifestyle to the gym, so that’s uct, but more as a weight making major changes more as a weight managemanagement programme, why Dr is Qazi produced WAZN, it was WAZN a 100% natural veggie ment programme, which which works for almost created towhich help tackle obesity, without capsule, contains Raspworks for almost everyone, everyone, young, old, making major lifestyle berry Ketone, African changes Mango, WAZN young, old, male orThe female. male or female. prodis a 100% natural veggie Green Coffee Extract (allcapsule, of Theuct product is used to bewhen used is to be which contains Raspberry Ketone, which are known to release when your index is your BMIBMI index is greater enzymes that break fat). African Mango, Greendown Coffee Extract greater than 25 as it helps than 25 as it helps you It(all also contains of which are Hoodia known toAcai release youmaintain maintainananideal idealvalue value of (known have properties to kill enzymestothat break down fat). of 25 or less. 25 or less. off cancer), Green Tea Acai extract,( It also contains Hoodia (known teamhere here at at which twenty plus to havehas properties to killamino off cancer), WellWell ourour team Asian Sunday will be acids), Apple cider vinegar and Asian Sunday will be Green Tea extract,( which has twenty putting the capsule to the Panax Ginseng. capsules plus amino acids),The Apple cider vinegar putting the capsule to the test....keep posted as we claim to be Alcohol, Hormones test....keep posted as we and Panax Ginseng. The capsules will post results in the and Gelatine free, with no side will post results in the claim to be Alcohol, Hormones and coming editions. effects.
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
NEWS
Plea from Syrian refugee mothers as numbers of female UK travellers rise Latest figures from UK national counter terrorism policing show that women and girls are continuing to travel to Syria. The UK police service and partners are today (Tuesday 12th January) launching a new film urging mothers to prevent further tragedies. The short film focuses on three Syrian refugee mothers speaking directly to mothers in the UK about the realities of life in Syria and asking why any woman would want to take their family to live in a war zone. It is complemented by open letters that the women have written urging mothers in this country to take steps to prevent their daughters travelling to Syria. The film, which has been developed in association with the charity Families Against Stress and Trauma (FAST), is released on the same day as new figures reveal that, between 1 January 2015 and
31 December 2015, 56 women and girls were reported missing to the police by their families, all feared to have travelled to Syria. Helen Ball, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism policing, is launching the campaign as part of an on-going initiative to encourage women and mothers to play their part in preventing their children from travelling to Syria and putting themselves in real danger. Local women attending the events which will start in London followed by series of regional launches across the country will be asked to support the Prevent Tragedies campaign by sharing its messages with their families and friends. The importance of the role of mothers in deterring other family members from travelling is also highlighted in the full findings of an online survey released recently.
The national online survey was carried out between March and April 2015 by national counter terrorism policing. The survey revealed that two thirds (66 per cent) of 11-25 years old who were asked which family member they were most likely to talk to said they would speak to their mother if they were worried about someone they knew being radicalised or considering travelling to a conflict zone abroad.
women in this film highlight the harsh reality of life for women and children living in a war torn country. I hope they will go some way to helping young women and mothers stop and think about the huge mistake they would be making if they travel. The results of the national online youth survey have also shown how important women are in helping to deter loved ones from travelling to
Syria. This film provides credible voices that describe the realities of the situation in Syria actually is. “Help and advice is available from a wide range of agencies. Anyone who is worried about a loved one and concerned they are considering travelling to Syria is encouraged to reach specially trained police officers by calling 101 or visiting www. preventtragedies.co.uk
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Helen Ball said: “We are deeply concerned about the numbers of girls, young women and also families who are taking the decision to go to Syria, unaware of the dangers they face when they arrive and the fact that they are unlikely to ever be able to return home to their devastated wider families. “The personal accounts of the
British Mum Accused Of Joining IS and Of Using Social Media To Encourage Terrorism
A British mother accused of travelling to Syria with her young child to join Islamic State told her family she wanted to die a martyr, a court heard. Tareena Shakil initially said she was going to Turkey on a package holiday in October 2014 but instead went on to the IS stronghold of Raqqa to join their ranks. Deleted photographs recovered
from her phone showed the married 26-year-old wearing an IS balaclava after arriving in Syria, prosecutors said. Another picture allegedly showed her brandishing an AK47 assault rifle.
The former college student sent messages home to friends and relatives in the UK, saying she was “happy as Larry” in Raqqa and asking them to visit, it was claimed. In a WhatsApp conversation with her father Mohammed Shakil back in England, she wrote: “I can leave, but I don’t want (to). I want to die here as a martyr.”
On trial Tareena Shakil
Later she told others: “I’m here, happy as Larry, everybody is bothered but me. Lol, they just can’t get their head around it.”
At the start of her trial at Birmingham Crown Court, prosecutors alleged Shakil either married or arranged to be married to a jihadi fighter. As well as joining IS, she is also accused of using social media to encourage acts of terrorism. Shakil, from Sparkbrook in Birmingham, is thought to be the first British woman to return from the IS-controlled region of Syria to face such terror charges, all of which she denies. Sean Larkin QC, for the prosecution, said Shakil was radicalised in 2014, researching and then posting messages and pictures in support of IS. He said: “She left for Turkey on 20 October. Although she booked a
return flight, she was not going to come back, and this was no spurof-the-moment decision.” In an image shown to the jury, Shakil is shown pushing a buggy through East Midlands Airport on 20 October 2014.
After arriving in Turkey she allegedly made her way to the border with Syria and crossed into the country.
Mr Larkin told the court that Shakil returned to Turkey on 9 January 2015 and was arrested at Heathrow Airport when she flew back to the UK the following month. In an interview, she told officers she was kidnapped and taken to Syria but had managed to escape. The trial is scheduled to last up to three weeks.
Prosecution told the court Shakil was allegedly living the life as a ‘Mujahira’ and while there she either did or arranged to get married to a fighter. “The court also heard that she was given access to firearms, and there were images of her (child) wearing clothing with the ISIS logo and posing by a firearm.
CCTV Image of Shakil at East Midlands Airport with her child
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
COVER STORY
Black magic, spells, charity and the empty promises of fake faith healers
- Asian Sunday campaign to raise awareness of fake faith healers Images: Getty
We hear one shocking story after a family lost almost £70,000
Please note images shown are for illustration purposes only and are not claiming that these are fake peers/faith healers
To cope with unprecedented psychological distress, many Kashmiris turn to holy men known as peers. After reciting Koranic verses and blowing into a water bottle, peer Munshi Syed Hussin Kazmi runs beads over this young man’s face to restore his sight. Whilst we don’t know if the man’s sight is restored, but many have lost their wealth as a result of some ‘fake’ per consultations.
Couple being treated by peer for anxiety and depression Please note images shown are for illustration purposes only and are not claiming that these are fake peers/faith healers
by Alison Bellamy The Asian Sunday is today raising awareness of bogus faith healers, who have been known to take tens of thousands of pounds from vulnerable people experiencing a crisis or family problems. In the last few days we have heard reports about people visiting so called faith or spiritual healers, also known as peers or advisors, who claim they can solve problems in return for cash donations to charity. And lots of it.
Those experiencing problems such as depression, divorce, children going off the rails or even money and business related issues, can often find themselves needing someone to advise them or help solve their suffering. Quite often, they do this privately and do not tell anyone else for fear of embarrassment or shame about the mess they are in. We have spoken in confidence to one Pakistani family, from Bradford, which has lost more than £70,000 in cash, after promises that their family problems would be ‘cured’ by
their cash offerings for orphans in Pakistan. The mother of the household, who kept her visits secret initially, paid out £30,000 made up of smaller amounts of cash, then once her family found out, had to find even more money to buy back precious family gold from a pawnbroker, which she had sold to fund donations to the peer. Asian Sunday tells their story, as told to us by the elder son of the family, after a peer started ‘helping’ his mother.
People awaiting for solutions to their problems from their peer
Jan 2016, 1st Edition
ASIAN SUNDAY
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COVER STORY “My mother turned to a faith healer when things did not seem to be going right. She was promised things would change for the better. My sister kept absconding from home, sometimes for a few days, but would always eventually return. Her friends liked to dress up, party, were westernised and would go to places like shisha bars and come home late. My parents would be anxious and worried waiting up for her. My parents were protective towards her. They wanted her to be home by sunset and to dress in moderate Asian attire and not spend time with individuals who they felt had a bad influence. It was embarrassing for us as it was the hot topic of gossip that my sister was rebellious and did as she pleased. My mother confided in her friend who introduced her to a faith healer, who we refer to as a peer in our mother tongue. My mother visited him with her friend on several occasions without our knowledge. She was told by the healer that the problems were due to a family member in Pakistan cursing us and doing black magic as my sister had refused to have an arranged marriage. This put doubts in my mother’s mind as my sister had refused several arranged marriage proposals. This made my mother believe this man had special powers as he had knowledge of our past.
The peer told my mother that he did not charge for his services and blessings but he had a mosque charity box, which she could donate to if she wanted. At first the peer gave my mother a Taveez (which is some Arabic scripts written on pieces of paper). He said to dissolve this magical potion in water, then mix it in my sister’s drink or food and it would make our problems disappear. My mother donated £20 which she put in the box placed in the man’s living room. My mother started to follow the instructions. Some nights my sister would stay home and my mother thought this was due to the spell. She would return and tell him her problems were improving and he would say she needed to pay for the education of some orphans and would give her bank details for a charity in Pakistan. He would say: “It is all for charity, I do not charge.” He would also give my mother pieces of paper to burn, which he said would get rid of spells cast on us. My mother started to visit him, sometimes several times a week telling him all sorts, even saying that I was bad with money. He promised my mother he would help me with his prayers and taweez.
money into his chosen bank account in Pakistan. It added up to thousands over time. Then I had a personal pay-out for a whiplash injury after a crash. I got a few thousand pounds and bought a new car. I told my family I had saved the money. My mother was delighted and confided in the peer. He told her this was due to his blessings, and if she wanted it to continue she had to donate £5,000 towards the construction of a madrassah for orphans in Pakistan. Things would turn nasty when my mother would say she had little money. He would say she needed to raise money or else bad things would happen. My mother doesn’t work and has little money. She started to pawn her gold jewellery and sentimental items from her wedding to pay him. My mother was afraid of bad spells he could cast and listened to his demands. This continued for over a year without our knowledge. My sister would have mood swings and my mother would rush to this man who would give her more taweez. He said it would rid my sister of all evil acts.
My sister was now staying out for a few nights at a time; my mother would then visit the peer, who would say she would return soon.
When my sister had fallen out with her best friend, my mother was happy as she believed this girl was a bad influence. Again the peer took credit and told my mother to transfer another £3,000 towards the madrassah.
When my sister eventually returned home this man would ask my mother to help feed orphans. She would transfer
A week later my sister made up with her friend and the peer told her someone had cast another curse on the family and she
needed to donate £10,000 and it would immediately rectify the problems and my sister would behave. My mother sold her gold bangles and paid the money to a bank account. But problems worsened, my sister left home and was living alone. This was a huge embarrassment as we are well known and respected in the community. Eventually, my mother confided in my father and told him everything. We confronted the peer whose defence was that my mother had given money to charity and not to him, as he does not charge for his services. Due to this faith healer we lost out nearly £70,000 in total. My mother paid this man in excess of £30,000 and we had to buy back all the jewellery she had pawned. This is a happening frequently in the Asian community, we have had lots of people approach us and tell us of their dealings with the same man. When my mother visited him there was always several other people waiting to see him, the majority of them were vulnerable women who are illiterate and have superstitious beliefs. This man poses as a holy man, does not work, claims to work for free, educates his children in private schools, lives in a luxury house and has a fleet of prestige cars.”
We sent a representative from Asian Sunday to see an unrelated Bradford-based spiritual healer. Our representative told the Asian healer, who is in his 60s, that he was experiencing family problems and was struggling to cope. The healer told him that he must help others. And the best way to help others was to feed the homeless. The man who went for advice said: “The healer told me that I had to feed homeless people eight times over. My parents live in Pakistan and near their village are some homeless people, so I suggested I could give my parents the money. “But he said no and that I had better give the money to him adding that he would be the one to tell me who to give the money to – and he said give it to him. “Then he said I also had to feed 100 orphans in an orphanage. He said I should pay £500, plus another £300 for the homeless people, and that was just for starters. “I then felt he was persuading me to give him money. He reassured me saying that I had family problems and they would stop if I donated money.” Our representative made his excuses and left. He did not pay any money. Police say that anyone handing over amounts of money in this manner should be wary and if suspicious or feel something is not right, then seek advice. Contact your local police force for advice. A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: “We would urge anyone who believes they may have been a victim of fraud to contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. Reports can also be made to police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.” For people experiencing family problems or other issues contact the Citizen’s Advice Bureau www. citizensadvice.org.uk or your local GP surgery for the correct support and information.
Spells and evil spirits
Spiritual methods are often questioned for authenticity and with many fake spiritual healers around it makes the job harder
If you would like to share your experience or seek advice please email alison@asiansunday.co.uk in confidence.
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
NEWS
Police hunt woman in kangaroo headscarf who ‘stabbed boy on bus with kitchen knife’ Recently released CCTV footage, shows what is believed to be a young woman in a headscarf stabbing a teenager on board the 133 London bus. The bus was on Brixton Road in Lambeth, south London and the footage was captured at around 12.30pm on Boxing Day. The teenage victim’s 51-year-old grandmother had to intervene after the suspect produced a large kitchen knife and attacked him, Scotland Yard said.The grandmother managed to disarm the suspect, who then got off the bus and fled towards Oval. The boy suffered a minor cut to the stomach and a large kitchen knife was later found by police.
Wanted. Police are looking for a suspect described to be female, Asian aged between 20 to 30 years The suspect is described as an Asian woman, aged about 20 to 30 years and she wore a distinctive headscarf with a kangaroo print.
The moment a woman allegedly stabbed a teenage boy on a bus in Lambeth
in writing.
Bereaved families have vetoed the donation of organs from hundreds of registered donors in the last five years, according to new figures
‘My nurses are speaking for the person who has died. People who join the register want and expect to become organ donors. We do not want to let them down.
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) data suggests relatives blocked transplants in 547 – or one in seven – cases since 2010. The body said in a statement it would no longer seek a family’s formal consent in order to reduce the number of ‘overrides. The move is to deal with the high demand of people who desperately need new organs to save their lives. The bereaved will be given a leaflet which explains consent remains with the deceased, although they can still block donation by providing reasons
Sally Johnson, director of organ donation and transplantation at NHSBT, told the broadcaster: ‘We are taking a tougher approach – but also a more honest approach.
‘We have every sympathy for families
cars in front that wanted to turn right into a petrol station.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 199092
Hospitals will no longer need consent from deceased’s families for organ donation The NHS has toughened up the way it collects organs for donation due to Hundreds of bereaved families blocking organ donation. According to the NHS 1,200 patients would have received transplants if families did not veto a donor’s wishes
Council officials were forced to back down after trying to fine a City worker for driving in a bus lane on Christmas Day, when no buses run in London.
– and of course we do not want to make their grief worse. We think this will make what is a hugely distressing day easier for them, by reducing the burden on them. ‘The principle that the individual affected is the one who consents applies throughout medicine, and it is not different because someone has died.’ Driver fined for using bus lane on Christmas Day... when there are no buses
“It was Christmas Day and I knew buses weren’t running, so I moved into the bus lane for about eight seconds. The bus lane ended after those eight seconds. Naeem Alam, even had an appeal against the penalty rejected before Barking and Dagenham Council admitted it had made a mistake and agreed not to charge him. Mr Alam was left stunned when he was issued with an on-the-spot fine for driving in a bus lane on Christmas Day - despite the fact there were no buses running. The thirty-year old was visiting his sister when he drove into the bus lane, but was stunned when he was slapped with the ticket for an eight second infringement - on the only day of the year when London buses don’t run. Mr Alam told a local newspaper that the decision to issue the penalty was “ridiculous”. “I was driving back from my sister’s after Christmas lunch,” he told the paper. “There was a vehicle a few
“On January 4, I received a PCN. To my surprise the contravention was being in a bus lane – which I found rather bizarre, because there aren’t any buses on Christmas Day. I was really baffled by the whole thing.” He appealed the penalty notice but Barking and Dagenham Council initially refused to budge and Alam was told he would have to pay the £65 fine as there was no Christmas Day exemption. But a Barking and Dagenham Council spokesman admitted a mistake had been made. “This PCN should not have been issued as we do not enforce on Christmas Day,” he said. “We would like to apologise to Mr Alam for any inconvenience.” This clearly demonstrates a case to challenge fines if you believe them to be incorrect.
Wan ted: Goo d co o A k p s p cook . l y s@a n ow sian su nda
y.co .u
The Desi Kitchen‌ coming to a screen soon.
k
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
NEWS
Aspiring fashion designer, 20, who killed herself because she feared losing her Muslim boyfriend to an arranged marriage by Raheema Khan
path of a passing lorry, the impact killing her instantly.
An aspiring fashion designer terrified she would lose the love of her life to an arranged marriage killed herself by stepping in front of a lorry, an inquest heard.
The hearing into her death was told she died of multiple injuries after being struck at Clay Mills, near Burton, Staffordshire, in the early hours of July 2.
Suk Yin Cheng left a note on her iPod expressing her distress at the fact that her Muslim boyfriend of two years, Kahil Mohammad, could be forced to marry another woman on religious grounds.
In the note left on her iPod, Miss Cheng stressed that the fact her boyfriend was potentially going to be subject to an arranged marriage had left her distressed and depressed.
Believing she would be unable to cope in such circumstances, the 20-year-old walked into the path of a speeding HGV - minutes after phoning Mr Mohammad to tell him: ‘I love you. I’m doing this for you.’
In a statement to the police, Mr Mohammad explained that he and Miss Cheng were ‘inseparable’ and he wanted to marry her.
Speaking at a hearing into her death on Wednesday, Mr Mohammad insisted his girlfriend appeared to be ‘happy and smiling’ when they were together for what proved to be the final time on July 1 last year, hours before the tragedy After leaving his company, Miss Cheng - known as Caley by her family - headed to the busy A38 dual carriageway instead of going home. Following her brief phone call to Mr Mohammad, she walked directly into the
At the inquest, Pc Carl Matthew, the investigating officer from Staffordshire Police, said when Miss Cheng’s phone was recovered, they could see she had spoken to her friends via social media about her concerns over the arranged marriage. But Mr Mohammad, 22, said an arranged marriage had not been discussed on the evening before Miss Cheng’s death. The coroner’s court heard that the day before the tragedy, Miss Cheng had been to work at the Boots warehouse, in Burton-on-Trent.
She then drove to Mr Mohammad’s house in Derby, where the pair chatted until around 11.30pm. He told police ‘she seemed fine, happy and smiling’ when she left. Miss Cheng - who was born in Holland to Chinese parents who run a takeaway in Derby - was due to drive home to her family home, but drove towards Burton on the A38, where she pulled into a lay-by. She made her phone call to Mr Mohammad at around 12.15am. He recalled: ‘She said that she loved me and that she was doing this for me. I did not know why she was saying that.’
Aspiring fashion designer commits suicide for boyfriend - Photographed her with her boyfriend
The hearing at Burton Town Hall was told Miss Cheng died at 12.40am when she was hit by the lorry. Devastated Mr Mohammad today paid tribute to his tragic girlfriend - saying that he was desperate to marry her. The 22-year-old shopworker said: ‘Caley was unique. She’s an angel. I wish that she would come back for a second so I could talk to her. ‘I didn’t believe it when I heard she had passed away. I rang hospitals, her family and friends, went to all her favourite places. I was in shock.
Boyfriend Mr Mohammed devastated at the death of his girlfriend
Tributes pour in for M40 crash victim Charity worked Junaid Arif has been named as the victim of a fatal crash on the M40. Arif, was believed to be in his 20s, died when his car left the carriageway and plunged down an embankment at 1.10am on Thursday. He was thrown from his vehicle, near junction 16, close to Henley-in-Arden , and was confirmed dead at the scene. A tribute page was set up on Facebook for the ‘beautiful
human’, who was also known as Jedy. Friends described him as a dedicated charity worker who wanted to help provide clean water to countries such as Pakistan and Bangladesh. Usman Hanif posted: “Such a beautiful human, always smiling and offering to help. RIP.” Nadia Hussain wrote: “So sad to hear someone at such a young age like you has left the
world. “Breaks my heart.” And Mycroft Ibn Nazir added: “You’ll be truly missed by us all.” Junaid had set up a fundraising page following the death of friend Nabil Hussain in November and wrote on Facebook that he had raised more than £1,000 for the Birmingham-based charity Islamic Help.
Junaid Arif died instantly in M40 car crash
Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
11
NEWS
37% of children in London leave primary school obese or overweight BHF calls for 9pm watershed junk food ban to curb UK obesity crisis Around 37 per cent of year six children in London are obese or overweight, according to latest statistics. Carrying excess weight into adulthood increases the risk of developing heart disease in later life. These latest worrying figures mean there are around 35,300 children in London leaving primary school obese or overweight. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is calling for a ban on all junk food TV advertising before 9pm, as part of the Government’s Childhood Obesity Strategy, to help improve children’s health. Millions of children across the UK are being exposed to junk food adverts during popular shows such as the X Factor and Hollyoaks. Analysis by the BHF shows that weak regulations are creating loopholes that mean that food companies can advertise junk food - high in fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt - during programmes watched by children in London. Shockingly, 13 junk food adverts were shown during just one X Factor show last year, promoting unhealthy snacks such as crisps, chocolate bars and pizzas to the children watching before 9pm.
Current regulations mean that foods high in fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar are banned from being advertised during children’s programming. But the latest Ofcom figures show that two-thirds (65 per cent) of children watch TV during what is considered adult airtime. Peak viewing for children is between 7 and 8pm when up to 1.8 million children are glued to their TV screens. One of the most popular programmes for children is the X Factor with up to 1.2 million children aged 4-15 watching. During last year’s series, the BHF found adverts for foods high in fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar, such as Cadbury chocolate, Doritos crisps, Kinder chocolate, Chicago Town pizzas and Haribo sweets, all of which are banned during children’s programming. Weak regulation also allows programmes such as Hollyoaks, shown between 6.30pm and 7pm to be sponsored by Domino’s Pizza, exposing children to adverts for high-saturated fat and salt pizzas up to four times during every 30-minute episode. The nation’s leading heart charity says current regulations are ‘failing’ families in London because
X Factor and Hollywoaks, popular with children are showing too many junk food advert they are allowing junk food companies to target children with advertising that would be banned during children’s programming. The BHF is calling for the Government to announce a ban on junk food advertising before 9pm as part of a robust Childhood Obesity Strategy that is expected later this month. Mike Hobday, Director of Policy at the BHF, said: “It’s worrying that so many children in London are obese or overweight. Carrying excess weight into adulthood increases the risk of developing heart disease in later life. “We mustn’t allow food companies to continue to exploit a failing regulatory system that allows them to bombard TV screens with junk food adverts at the times
13 junk food adverts were shown during just one X Factor show last year
when the highest numbers of children are watching TV. “We need to protect young people against the sophisticated marketing techniques of junk food advertisers to help tackle the obesity crisis which threatens the heart health of future generations.” National statistics show that children are eating more saturated fat and sugar than is recommended and not enough fruit and vegetables. A third of year six children (33.2 per cent) are overweight or obese in England. Obese children are more likely to be obese adults, which in turn increases their risk of a heart attack or stroke. Last month the BHF joined
eighteen organisations to form a national alliance calling for a range of polices to tackle the UK’s obesity crisis. These include: •
Robust restrictions on unhealthy food marketing, including a 9pm watershed for TV advertising of junk food
•
Independent set of incremental reformulation targets, backed by regulation for industry to reduce the sugar, saturated fat and salt in our foods
•
The government should introduce a 20 per cent tax on sugary drinks
For more information about the BHF’s call for a ban of junk food advertising before 9pm, visit: www.bhf.org.uk/junkfood
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
FEATURE
The floodgates opened, but so did hearts by Adeeba Sanna Zahoor Christmas, a time of year when families hope to spend quality time
together, leaving the stresses of work at the office and relaxing at last. That’s what one would expect, however this definitely wasn’t the case for some. Storms Frank and Desmond impacted the UK
Al-Imdad charity volunteers helping with flood cleanup
and Wales severely in December, leaving hundreds of homes and businesses flooded and ruined. However, if there is one positive which can be taken from this ordeal, it is the strength of community spirit which has proven to be a force of nature in its own right. At a time when there have been potential political leaders like Donald Trump challenging multicultural and multi-faith cohesion, this crisis really has highlighted what can be achieved when we remove boundaries of race and religion. York Mosque and Islamic Relief, helped bag sand to stem water flow. They posted a message on Facebook saying: “Over 100 tonnes of sand bagged and ready for distribution, around nine hours of hard work put in by the dedicated volunteers... We can’t thank you all enough.” More than 300 volunteers of Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association have been involved in offering assistance also, across 38 towns and villages affected by the storms. Churches have been collecting donations such as clothes, dry foods, baby food, toiletries and so on and the Sikh charity Khalsa Aid provided 4000 sandbags, thousands of hot meals, cleaning items and manpower to aid the clear up process.
payments should be redirected and refocused internally in the UK. There has been dismay at the UK giving 0.7 per cent of GDP to other countries when we have problems of our own like the flood crisis, which have been managed insufficiently. However, this seems irrelevant for a few reasons. It should be remembered that we are fortunate enough to be the third largest economy in Europe and sixth in the world. Even by giving away 0.7 per cent of GDP, that still leaves us with 97.3 per cent to spend on the UK. The government has the means to improve our defences to such disasters but clearly more needs to be done. What might be criticised is the government’s involvement with other defences instead, like airstrikes in Syria, with a cost of $390 million predicted by Osbourne, and examples such as Iraq and Afghanistan proving that such action only exacerbates. That indeed is money that could be better spent on flood defences rather than military defences in the middle east. The army’s contribution during the floods this Christmas, with their almost immediate ability to provide support, confidence and security also suggests our military should
be less involved in Syria and more in the UK perhaps. As well as using our amply available financial resource to increase flood defence budgets, there are some other practical changes that clearly need to be made. The Environment Agency makes some valid points about possible solutions to the flooding crisis. It has been suggested that we stop building substations on vulnerable sites and building houses on floodplains for example. Former environment minister, Lord Rooker advises ‘rewilding’, a process by which new forests would slow flooding by trapping water with their roots. These are all effective changes that can be made with the support of our government. The government definitely needs to be pragmatic and take practical steps to reduce the risk of this happening again and to also increase budgets for such crises so we are better equipped to deal with them. What shouldn’t change however is our sense of comradery and community both on the micro and macro levels, be it foreign aid to help educate children in Pakistan or donating hot food to flood victims at home. That is what puts the Great in Great Britain and we should be proud of that.
The Community Foundation for the Calderdale flood appeal which was set up on Boxing day reached a quarter of a million pounds after just a few days of receiving donations from local businesses, charities and of course the general public.
Floods in Leeds
Praise for community support has been continuously positive, however the same cannot be said about attitudes towards the government’s input. One of the prevalent arguments which has arisen is that the UK’s foreign aid
Volunteers from Khalsa Aid preparing meals for flood victims in Hebden Bridge
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14
Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
HEALTH
Diabetes reaches crisis levels in UK
Diabetes now affects 4 million people in the UK we look at myths associated with type 2 and why south Asian people are prone to it. by Alison Bellamy People often say to me ‘You don’t look like a diabetic’. I don’t suppose I do. You don’t necessarily have to be obese, unhealthy and unfit to have the chronic condition, which has once again hit the headlines with new figures.
high risk factor for people who are south Asian: “The risk can be as much as six times higher than a white British person, and can be linked to their genetics, culture,
traditions and lifestyle, which covers diet, exercise and habits. “Work is going on to help educate people. Having diabetes is not
something to be ashamed of, as it can often be in Asian communities. The right management and care means that people can live a relatively normal life.”
He said some Asian families were often ashamed of the condition, and in one case he knew of, they did not tell a prospective marriage partner, that their relative had
There are now 4 million people with diabetes in the UK. And people of South Asian origin are six times more prone to developing it, than their white British counterparts. I am one of the 10 per cent of the four million diagnosed who have Type 1 diabetes. I need insulin injections, as my pancreas does not work. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas still functions a little bit, and is helped with tablets, or in some cases extra insulin, where needed. Insulin is needed to balance the amount of food you eat and stops sugar levels becoming too high, which in turn if left high for a long time, can cause complications. Diabetes expert Dr Mahendra Patel, is senior academic of the University of Huddersfield, and Chief Executive Officer of the South Asian Health Foundation, based in Birmingham, which works to promote better health care among Asian people. Dr Patel said there was an extra
Dr Mahendra Patel “Factors associated with people of South Asian origin such as their diet, lifestyle, and things like sweet treats, like cakes and Indian sweets for young children, or for example four sugars in a cup of sweet tea, plus the use of ghee in cooking, added to genes, and not enough exercise, do not mix well, and add up to create a significant risk factor.”
Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
15
HEALTH
Children should not be rewarded regularly with sweets for doing well or given fizzy pop full of sugar as a habit. It is better to start healthy habits as young as possible.
it, in case it was seen as a ‘bad’ match. They tried to hide the condition and lived with it in secret until it became impossible to hide. “People can be ashamed of the condition. All that is needed is small steps to manage it. Or better still make early changes to avoid getting it in the first place, said Dr Patel. Based on 2014-15 GP patient data Diabetes UK says there are 4.05 million people with the condition, including 3.5 million adults who have been diagnosed, an increase of 65% over the past decade and around 120,000 more than the previous year. There are thought to be 549,000 with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Many of them are of south Asian origin. Melanie Davies, professor of diabetes medicine at the University of Leicester and University Hospitals of Leicester NHS trust, said that numbers with the condition were growing across the world, often outstripping estimates. As such, she said, the 4 million figure is ‘not surprising but quite alarming’. There are also lots of people at very high risk of developing diabetes over the next five to 10 years. The large driver is the increase in the number of people with type 2 diabetes, associated with obesity in the population. “We know that we have an ageing
population so of course there are lots of ageing people with diabetes, but we’re seeing in the [Leicester] clinic, teenagers and even children with type 2 diabetes and we wouldn’t have seen this 10 years ago. Even under the age of 30 there are many more people developing it than before and having it for a longer time, so there are more complications.” A lot of tasty Asian food, including curries, breads and rice, are full of carbohydrates, which can cause weight increase if not eaten in moderation. And Indian sweets and desserts are mostly full of sugar. Dr Patel added: “A south Asian person is three to six times more likely to develop diabetes and shockingly, the younger generation are at higher risk due to the lifestyle of today’s society. Small things add up such as playing computer games, taking less exercise, eating a few more sweets, smoking, apathy, and a diet which is high in fat. These are all modifiable risk factors. “Within the Asian culture I have noticed a few myths which circulate, such as injections are bad for you and can mean you are about to die. This is not true, at this stage you need an injection of insulin to stay alive. “Combine this with different cultural attitudes and different religions and the fact that some communities are ‘hard to reach’, then type 2 is reaching crisis
levels.” There are many community programmes going on with talks and visits to places like mosques and community centres, in various languages, as well as joint working with Imams. Dr Patel said: “Small changes are key to tackling this. Whether it is dropping from four sugars in a cup of tea to just two, then that is a good start. A little more exercise, such as a walk in the park, or reducing intake of sugary food, is all excellent.” The National Audit Office recently criticised the poor standard of diabetes care, and Diabetes UK says that unless this is remedied more people will end up experiencing potentially preventable diabetes-related complications such as blindness, kidney failure and amputation. The charity says more than 24,000 people a year with diabetes die before their time. Diabetes UK’s chief executive, Chris Askew, said: “The need to tackle this serious health condition has never been so stark or so urgent. Tragically, we are continuing to see too many people with diabetes suffering serious complications, and even dying before their time, and we know that key reasons for this are that they are being denied both the care and access to education that would help them to manage their condition well.”
Symptoms of diabetes Raising awareness and urging people to be tested is being promoted by the NHS through doctor’s surgeries and health support groups and centres. Many people ignore the symptoms, which can take a while to become apparent in type 2. •
urinating more often than usual, particularly at night
•
feeling very thirsty
•
feeling very tired
•
unexplained weight loss
•
itching around the genital area, or frequent episodes of thrush
•
cuts or wounds that heal slowly
•
blurred vision (caused by the lens of the eye becoming dry)
These are all symptoms of a higher than normal sugar level. If not enough insulin is being made, then the sugar in your body, from food containing sugars and carbohydrates, cannot be processed. See your GP for advice. More at www.diabetes.org.uk or the South Asian Health Foundation www.sahf.org.uk
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
Property
Home improvement ideas for increasing your property’s value A property is one of the biggest financial investments you will make in your lifetime and with increased pressures on personal finances looming in later life, it makes sense to ensure that your home remains in tip top condition. Jon Over, Managing Director
Property kitchen
at Goldstone Homes, provides his home improvement ideas for helping to increase your property’s value. The heart of the home: the kitchen has become an integral part of modern day living and is often regarded as the heart of any home. The key to creating
a perfect kitchen is careful planning and quality fixtures and fittings. Built in appliances, hard wearing worktops and timeless design will all help to add value. However, don’t go overboard. Keep the look and feel in line with the rest of your home and proportionate with
your property’s value and the surrounding area. Conservatory/extension: creating extra space is always going to be a welcome addition for any property. Do your research thoroughly and spend time focusing on what will work best for your property. Speak
to a professional tradesperson so you can ensure you are getting the best return on your investment. Extra space should be seamless and work well with a property’s existing layout. Out of place conservatories and clumsy shaped extensions are a no-no.
Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
17
Loft conversion
Parking: the average UK family has two cars so parking is often at a premium especially on roads with older properties. Using surplus space to the side, front or even the back of your property for off street parking is not only desirable to future buyers but also guarantees a safe space for your vehicle and helps to reduce the cost of your car insurance. A good builder will be able to advise you on the best types of materials to use, accessibility and any relevant permissions required for lowering curbs adjacent to your proposed parking space. Conversions: loft or basement conversions are a great way to utilise existing space and create additional rooms. Think about how the conversion will work with the current layout and what the conversion will mean in terms of added value. For example, an additional bedroom won’t work in a four bedroom home with one bathroom unless you have space to create an en-suite facility as well. Any undertaking this large should always be carried out by a professional. Get recommendations for a reputable and reliable construction company and, if possible, view examples of previous projects that they have completed. For more information about Goldstone Homes and how they can help you with your next project, please visit www.goldstonehomes.co.uk
Please note this image is for illustration purposes only and not work of Gladstone Homes
Please note this image is for illustration purposes only and not work of Gladstone Home
Property
18
Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
LET’S TALK
OPINION
with Dr Faraaz
Hi, welcome to my column! My name is Dr Faraaz Bhatti and I am a doctor in Emergency Medicine. I hope to start an interesting discussion on issues that affect every community and ones that are hopefully interesting for you. In my upcoming articles for the Asian Sunday I will be exploring ideas, some with no particular answers, and others with plenty – and my aim is to get the conversation going. So let’s talk. I would encourage readers to take what I say as just my opinion and not out of context. The articles aren’t intended to take the place of medical advice and if you do have any medical concerns then seek advice from your doctor. Today I want to touch on whether or not as a population we live in a pro-medication culture. What do you think, do we? I am not going to use any fancy statistics except for a story or two from my own experience. Treatments are very important for our wellbeing and man (or woman) has been using them in some form or another for thousands of years. Once upon a time leaches were used to suck away illness when applied to the skin – whether or not that worked is not my point, my point rather is that they were not used for every cough
or cold a person had. Surely, if they were used that irresponsibly it would render any person anaemic! It is a silly thought, but in today’s world this can be likened to antibiotic use for a common cold. It simply doesn’t work and only creates resistance!
Over the years we have shown how we strive as a species to live longer, healthier and sometimes we do whatever it takes to be the best we can be. This may be in sports, education, our work, in health and so on. Let’s focus on health for a minute. We are always trying to be better and in doing so, we as a human race create new medicines and treatments. But buying a new medicine, or demanding its prescription isn’t like upgrading from your old Corsa to brand new Mercedes is it? Let’s put this into context: we have an ageing population, right? Well that means a greater percentage of older people – so if we live longer our health needs become greater as we have more time to ‘collect’ illnesses (putting it simply). In order to keep up, medicine is advancing at rapid speed. But are medicines always good? And how many are too many?
As a doctor I would say that medicines should be used as prescribed by a medical professional and taken appropriately. For example, if an asthmatic were to take steroids every single day, inappropriately and not as directed, would you expect there to be a potential for some quite serious side effects? That is not to say steroids are bad, not at all – if used in the right circumstances. But remember, one person’s medicine is another’s poison – and that is why medication reviews with your General Practitioner is so vitally important. There is a school of thought that every visit to the doctor should mean you leave with that green piece of paper that gives you access to a
medicine that no-one can pronounce. What it does? What its side-effects are? … well that doesn’t matter at that precise moment in time. After all, what use is the package insert? The feeling of success that some may feel has been achieved by having their doctor scribble their signature on the line for a medicine is more than enough to start the process of feeling better. My grandmother won’t mind me saying this but she has always visited the doctor expecting not only reassurance, but also a prescription. This was engrained in her from childhood, a time when good doctors prescribed and bad doctors, well didn’t! So whether its asthma, or a cold, the doctor should prescribe tablets regardless. Is there a placebo effect to this? And is there a psychological component? Are we happier with prescribed advice and reassurance or if we leave our doctor’s surgery with a prescription? These are all rhetorical questions of course and I don’t know the answers! Doctors are humans and we are influenced by a whole variety of factors – including clinical need and a patient’s wishes. If you were to take new medicines every time you visited the
doctor, or even if I visited mine for that matter – we’d be eating tablets with milk in a breakfast bowl every morning. Not only are inappropriately- prescribed medicines bad, they may interact with others that you are on. Every medicine has potential for side- effects, even paracetamol! So the bottom-line surely should be that if you think you are taking too many medicines, then you may well be. Always discuss what you are taking with your doctor and don’t cut them out (or add them in for that matter) on your own! Sometimes we have to take multiple medicines as a fact of life, but sometimes we take them because they were prescribed to us ten years ago, or because it worked for the next door neighbour’s great aunt’s second cousin. Despite the tongue-in-cheek humour in this article, this is a serious topic and we must take responsibility for our own medicines. You can follow my Twitter feed on @Faraaz_Bhatti and let’s talk about important health issues. If you would like me to talk about any specific issues, then feel free to let me know. However, for any medical concerns or queries talk to your doctor.
Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
19
news
NHS Junior doctors on national 24-hour strike against new ‘seven day contracts’ by Alison Bellamy NHS Junior doctors began a 24hour strike against new contracts this morning (Tuesday) at more than 100 picket lines around the UK. The industrial action is being taken over a long running contract dispute over new guidelines. It follows weeks of talks between the British Medical Association and the Government, who have failed to reach an agreement. More than 50,000 medics, who are members of the BMA, started the 24 hour strike from 8am, in a protest against changes to their pay and working conditions. Thousands of operations and appointments have been cancelled in preparation for today’s action, as people are warned to stay away from hospitals and only attend if absolutely necessary. At a picket line at Dewsbury and District Hospital, in West Yorkshire, striking NHS staff received overwhelming support as members of the public and motorists passed by. Car horns tooted as drivers gave a thumbs up sign and people shouted encouragement, to show they approved of the action. A spokeswoman at the picket line said: “We have been here since 8am and will stay until 12.30pm. We have to take action as the Government is not listening to us.” Two groups totalling around 30 people wore BMA vests and waved placards calling for action to save the NHS and to support the strike. They stood at the main entrance to the hospital which is currently
being downgraded, transferring much-needed services such as the A&E department to Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield, about eight miles away.
£69,000. Under the present system shifts from 7pm to 7am Monday to Friday and the whole of Saturday
and Sunday attract a premium rate of pay. Under the new plans, a higher rate would run from 10pm to
7am Monday to Friday, and from 7pm on Saturday evenings (a concession on the previous 10pm).
Junior doctors will only provide ‘emergency care only’ until 8am tomorrow when the strike ends. This means some of them will still be on rota to work in A&E departments and cover other emergency services in hospitals. The British Medical Association’s junior doctors’ leader, Johann Malawana, said conditions for junior doctors need to change. In a video posted to the BMA’s Twitter site, he said doctors have ‘even been unable to get leave for their own weddings despite months - and even up to a year - of notification in advance’, adding that the situation ‘cannot continue’. The Government wants to introduce a new contract for doctors working up to consultant level to replace the current one which is ‘outdated’. Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt wants to introduce a ‘truly sevenday NHS’. He plans to cut the number of hours on a weekend that junior doctors can claim extra pay. Under the most recent proposals, doctors will receive an 11 per cent rise in basic pay - but extra pay for ‘unsocial’ hours will be cut. Trainee doctors currently have a starting salary of £22,636 in their Foundation Year 1 (F1). This rises to £30,000 within four years. Doctors in specialist training receive a starting salary of £30,002. Prior to becoming a consultant this can rise to
A picket line of NHS junior doctors and colleagues outside Dewsbury Hospital today.
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Issue 14
ASIAN SUNDAY
21
OPINION
From the Outside In…
by Alison Bellamy
Apparently, I am one of the lucky few who loves their job. Only two out of every ten people actually like going to work. And being a news reporter for the Asian Sunday, means I am relishing the opportunity of learning about all sorts of interesting things and meeting some extraordinary people. So here I am, immersing myself in Asian culture and learning about cousin marriages, the pitfalls of faith healers and trying not to give them all your cash … if at all possible, as well as the obvious Asian related health scares, including don’t eat too many naan breads, which I do far too often anyway. On the plus side, I have just had a stimulating introduction into the world of Bollywood, by seeing two ‘biggies’ in one day. I know a lot of Asian folk enjoy a Bollywood or two as much as the next Tamwar, Dinesh or Hamza, but I did not realise just how popular a past time it is, for people of all ages and outlooks. The boss of Asian Sunday asked if I could review Dilwale and Bajiro Mastani, on the day they were both released. I explained that I didn’t
really do ‘Bollywood’ and it wasn’t really my sort of thing. I don’t do stage musicals either. All that singing and dancing seems a bit cheesy to me. But a ‘can do’ attitude is essential in this job, so there was simply no getting out of it, as I grimaced saying ‘of course I would go along’. In fact I had never even seen a Bollywood properly and was thinking I’d rather see the new Star Wars, as I wondered how much Indian dancing I could take over several hours. Then I remembered … I don’t really ‘get’ Star Wars and prefer films which are set on planet earth and have love, action and adventure in them … isn’t that Bollywood anyway? ‘I know that you are not a fan,’ smiled the boss, ‘But a challenge is good for you.’ So off I went. I was surprised at the longer length of the movies, both around two-and-a-halfhours. It was a blast from the past to have an
interval, which reminded me of cinema trips as a child in the 1970s and 80s, to see films with my family. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo, are the ones I recall.
I noticed I was the only single, white, female watching both films. Nothing wrong with that and I felt I had discovered another world, away from the one I usually live.
I loved it and felt a part of something special. It was as if I had attended a secret ‘members only’ club and had somehow smuggled myself into it. This time around it seems the promotion for Dilwale has been much more mainstream in the British media, at least. I enjoyed the ‘competitive families’ angle of Dilwale and identified with this, and I am not even Asian. The important mantra of ‘you must be best you can at everything’ made me smile as I thought about my Asian friends and how important career, lifestyle, house and even down to what is for tea tonight, can be for some of them.
And as much as I liked seeing the entertaining antics of dream team Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in Dilwale, which is full of fast cars and cringe-worthy chat up lines, my favourite film out of the two was Bajiro Mastani, because it reminded me of the HBO television series Game of
Thrones, with its mighty battle scenes and dramatic cinematography. I loved the Indian palaces, the silk drapes and all the finery too. Having travelled a lot with a backpack when I was younger to places including Nepal and India, it reminded me of how much I love this part of the world and all its wonderful colour, texture and rich culture. I soon realised that I had been at the cinema for almost six hours. I think the cinema staff - who by this time had started to recognise me - might have wondered if I was a strange lady, hanging around the Bollywood section on my own, after my date had not turned up. It was refreshing to see families relish the experience as I saw a set of parents, plus their teenage children and pals enjoying a fun time, with lots of snacks and treats to go with their experience. It was a pity about the gigantic basket of crunchy nachos, and toppings, which seemed to last for the first half of Dilwale. But each to their own. They are very different films, well ... apart from the singing, dancing, colourful clothes and rainstorms, that is. And I will certainly be in the queue the next time there is a Bollywood blockbuster out.
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Women in History – Who was she?
Remembering Parveen Babi 20 January 2016, is the eleventh death anniversary of legendary fashion model and Indian actress Parveen Babi. We remember the yesteryear actress Babi entered the film industry in the seventies a time where there were two kinds of women in Indian movies, the virtuous and the vamps. Babi made a break with both stereotypes. She offered instead a woman who spoke anglicised Hindi, had lustrous hair and long legs, was a favourite of reigning superstar Amitabh Bachchan, and had made her mark in a no-holds barred, unconventional role in Yash Chopra’s Deewar, With Deewar, Parveen defied Hindi films’ norms and played a heroine who not only flaunted her drink openly but also indulged in premarital sex with her lover, Amitabh. Parveen’s understated performance brought her big notices. Her sophisticated demeanour and cool nonchalance proved a further double whammy. The poignancy that reverberated when her dream of wearing the sindoor (a cosmetic red powder worn by Indian woman to show they are respectably married)
ended in a blood-soaked wedding sari made her death one of cinema’s most memorable scenes. Parveen was born in a place called Junagadh, in Gujarat, India to a Muslim family. She did her early schooling from Mount Carmel High School, Ahmedabad and later attended St. Xavier’s College, Ahmedabad where she earned a Master of Arts in English literature. Born in a feudal aristocratic family, her ancestors came from a lineage of Gujarat’s historical Pathan community and belonged to the royal Babi Dynasty. Parveen was born fourteen years after the marriage of her parents and was their only child. She lost her father at the age of ten. Parveen never married but media tabloids speculated that she may have had relationships with men in the film-industry such as director Mahesh Bhatt as well as actors Kabir Bedi and Danny Denzongpa. She was also rumoured to have had an affair with her co-star of many films, Amitabh Bachchan, with whom she later developed irrational fears as she accused him of trying to kill her.
Parveen’s career started whilst she was studying in Ahmedabad university when B R Ishara discovered her in a chance meeting. Ishara, who was keen to cast a new girl opposite excricketer Salim Durrani, chose Parveen for his Charitra (1973), a bold follow-up to his Chetna. Charitra bombed but the tall, bright-eyed Parveen stood out. Her second release, the Kishore Sahu-directed Dhuen Ki Lakeer (1974), also flopped, but a song from the film, Teri jheel si gehri aankhon mein, lingered in public memory, as did Parveen’s beaming countenance. Parveen, who looked younger than her age, found instant acceptance and surprised everyone by being snapped up for nine more films. B R Chopra’s taut thriller, 36 Ghante (1974), didn’t last for much longer in the theatres; but the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer, Majboor (1974), where Parveen had a conventional arm-candy role and sported elaborate hairdos and outfits, finally furnished a hit for the actress. But it was Parveen’s small but crucial role in Yash Chopra’s Deewar (1975), that was largely responsible for formulating her image as the sleek, chic, Western woman whose long, open tresses, flying wildly in the wind, became an unspoken expression of her desire to be unshackled by convention, both on and off screen. After Deewar, Parveen’s biggie with Dev Anand, Bullet, misfired. The actress also fired blanks in a trio of insignificant roles with Randhir Kapoor (Bhanwar, Mama Bhanja, Mazdoor Zindabad) and a dud called Rangeela Rattan opposite Rishi Kapoor. But Parveen had no reason to fret. A gold mine, Amar Akbar Anthony (1977), awaited her. AAA was
essentially an Amitabh show, but Parveen had the best role among the heroines. Also, the fact that she was paired opposite superstar
Amitabh contributed significantly to her stardom. Her career was booming and she was singled out for the rare
Parveen Babi’s famous songs Song
Film
Singer
Teri jheel se gehri aankhon mein
Dhuen Ki Lakeer
Vani Jayram, Nitin Mukesh
Aankhen milayenge, nazdeek aayenge
Bhanwar
Lata Mangeshar, Kishore Kumar
Lata Mangeshkar, Mukesh, Humko tumseho gaayahai Amar Akbar Mohammed Rafi, Kishore pyaar Anthony Kumar Main toh beghar hoon
Suhaag
Asha Bhosle, Shashi Kapoor
Baahon mein tere masti ke ghere
Kaala Patthar
Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi
Pyaar karne waale pyar karte hain
Shaan
Asha Bhosle
Maaara thumka badal gayee
Kranti
Lata Mangeshkar
Jawani jaaneman haseen dilruba
Namak Halal
Asha Bhosle
Raat baki baat baki
Namak Halal
Bappi Lahiri, Asha Bhosle
Angrezi mein kehte hai ke I love you
Khuddar
Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar
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Women in History – Who was she? distinction of being featured on the cover of Time magazine. She became the first Indian movie star to appear on the magazine, with her face representing the modern Indian woman at the time. However, Parveen, who was part of the hip Juhu (northwest Mumbai) crowd, was always one to respond to her heart. At one stage, she even placed her career on the backburner and took off with boyfriend at the time Kabir Bedi, who was to play the title role in an Italian television serial, Sandokan. Fortunately, Parveen returned in the nick of time to pick up the threads of her career with renewed fervour. It was the era of multi-starrers and she snapped up a mixed bag of roles in ensemble fares. She was Vinod Khanna’s neglected wife and a mother in B R Chopra’s The Burning Train (1980), Amitabh’s beauteous leading lady in Ramesh Sippy’s star-studded follow-up to Sholay, Shaan (1980), and had an interesting cameo in Manoj Kumar’s Kranti (1981). She was also Amitabh’s love interest in Do Aur Do Paanch (1980) and Kaalia (1981). Parveen reached the pinnacle of her popularity at the turn of the new decade with a couple of interestingly dark-shaded roles in Meri Awaaz Suno (1981) and Namak Halal (1982). Her unapologetic turn as the gangster’s moll dancing to Kanwarlal in Meri Awaaz Suno revived memories of Deewar. Next, she dazzled audiences with her two cabaret numbers, Raat baaki and Jawani jaaneman, in the blockbuster, Namak Halal.
In 1983, after a prolonged effort to extend her oeuvre by working with middle-of-the-road directors like Vinod Pande (Yeh Nazdeekiyan with Marc Zuber), Esmayel Shroff (Dil Aakhir Dil Hai with Naseeruddin Shah) and Hrishikesh Mukherjee (Rang Birangee opposite Amol Palekar) came to naught, Parveen, the emotional gypsy, mysteriously flew off again, this time to the US. Some claimed it was her association with the spiritual guru, UG Krishnamurthy, the release of Mahesh Bhatt’s Arth (a semi-autobiographical look at his extramarital relationship with Parveen) and her disturbed state of mind that prompted her to abandon everything. But Parveen never confirmed the veracity of any media speculation. When she returned after an extended stay in New York, a nowbloated Parveen vented spleen at Amitabh and accused him of a deep-seated conspiracy. She was rumoured to have been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, a mental illness although she regularly denied this, stating that her being labelled as such was a conspiracy by the film industry and the media to malign her image and make her appear as insane, so that they can cover up their crimes.
Some sources indicate that it could have been a situation of acute depression, but not confirmed since she had many failed relationships with one of her former lovers openly humiliating her. This led Parveen to break relationships with most of her close dear ones including her own blood relations, having few contacts with known people and had become reclusive as she distrusted everyone Nevertheless, she started a career as an interior decorator in 1991. In 2002, she again hit the headlines when she filed an affidavit in the special court hearing the1993
Parveen Babi’s landmark films Year
Film
Costars
1974
Majboor
Amitabh Bachchan
1975
Deewar
Amitabh Bachchan
Convincingly essaying the role of a seductress who, under duress (her mother is held captive), baits Shashi Kapoor into a death trap, she exuded unlimited oomph. Compliments flowed in even from the most unexpected quarters. A serious actress like Deepti Naval expressed the desire to do a role a la Parveen Babi in Namak Halal.
1977
Amar Akbar Anthony
Amitabh Bachchan
1979
Suhaag
Shashi Kapoor
1981
Kaalia
Amitabh Bachchan
1981
Meri Awaaz Suno
Jeetendra
No more could Parveen’s detractors regard her as the poor man’s Zeenat (Zeenat Aman, was a contemporary actress who was making successful films during the same period as Parveen). Nor was she a bonsai star who grew in Amitabh’s shadow. Now she was a star-actress in her own right.
1982
Namak Halal
Shashi Kapoor
1982
Ashanti
Mithun Chakraborthy
1982
Khuddar
Amitabh Bachchan
1983
Rang Birangi
Amol Palekar
serial bomb blasts case, claiming that she had gathered clinching evidence against actor Sanjay Dutt showing his involvement in the case, but she did not turn up in court after being summoned saying that she was afraid of being killed. She was found dead on 22 January 2005 after her residential society secretary alerted the police that she had not collected milk and newspapers from her doorstep for three days.The police suspected that she may have been dead for up to 72 hours before her body was found. The cause of her death was not immediately known. She was found to have gangrene of the left foot as a complication of her diabetic condition. A wheelchair was found near her bed and a series of disarranged paintings, clothes, medicines and old newspapers. She had a bandage
on her left foot, that she had put on, to treat her gangrene which had resulted from a long ailment of diabetes. It is possible that she was unable to walk in her last days due to a gangrenous foot and required the use of a wheelchair to move inside the house. A post mortem was conducted and reports showed that there were no traces of food in her stomach but some alcohol (possibly from her medication) was found and it is possible that she had not consumed anything for more than three days and as a consequence starved to death. The police ruled out any foul play and it was determined she succumbed due to total organ failure and diabetes. She led a lifestyle with many tragedies and left this world in tragic circumstance. Bollywood’s bohemian Indian woman that was – Parveen Babi
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POLITICS
by Raheema Khan A report called ‘Learning the Lessons from Defeat’ was completed in November, to look into why Labour lost the general election last summer. It is believed that the report may have been suppressed by the party because it would undermine Jeremy Corbyn, but Corbyn has now bowed down to pressure and authorized his Party to release it. According to those who have read early drafts the findings of the document, are unlikely to be a huge surprise when they are published next week, yet the report may be awkward for Mr Corbyn as he seeks to pull Labour towards a more leftwing platform of rail nationalisation, unilateral disarmament, higher taxes and higher public spending than the Tories. More so because the report, which is written by Margaret Beckett, suggests that Labour “failed to connect with demographic groups who are seen as in the centre” of British politics, instead
that it was not seen as sufficiently in favour of “aspiration”. Economic competence was the biggest concern of those polled for the report, suggesting that voters did not believe the economy would be safe in the hands of the party. David Cameron, the Tory leader, repeatedly warned that Labour had presided over “boom and bust” at the end of the last decade while promising his own “long-term economic plan”.
Former Labour Leader Ed Miliband
Former Labour leader Ed Miliband tried to counter those attacks, not least by fully costing all his major policies, but of piling on more votes in constituencies voters still distrusted his party on the issue. that it already held. It adds that the party needs to work more closely with business, arguing
The report concludes that Labour failed to shake off the “myth” that it caused the financial crash.
Women's state pension petition secures second parliamentary debate Thanks to rising pressure from campaigners against planned age changes to the state pension which will hit hundreds of thousands of women aged 55-65 are to be debated again by MPs in Parliament The new debate, to be led by
Labour MP Helen Jones, will be held in Westminster Hall on Monday 1 February. Ms Jones is chair of the Petitions Committee, the group of MPs which decides if parliamentary petitions with more than 100,000 signatures should be debated in Parliament.
The changes mean women born in the 1950s will have to wait longer than expected to receive their state pensions, and many feel they have not been given enough notice to prepare for them. Some affected women say they will lose as much as
Some affected women say they will lose as much as £30,000 as a result of having to wait longer for their state pension. At the previous debate earlier this month, organised by the Scottish National Party MP Mhairi Black separately to the petition, MPs unanimously
backed a motion calling for extra measures to protect women affected by the acceleration in the rise of the state pension age. However, just like the last debate, the result of the one on 1 February won't be binding on the Government, which can choose to ignore it.
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POLITICS
Why will some women lose out under the state pension changes? There are two separate increases of the state pension age currently underway: •With the 1995 Pensions Act, the Government decided that men's and women's pension ages would be made the same by 2020. Previously, women retired at 60 and men at 65. •In 2011 the state pension age for both men and women was raised to 66. These changes mean women born after 5 April 1950 will receive their
state pensions later than expected –in some cases six years later. Many women who had been expecting to start drawing their state pensions between 2016 and 2020 only found out affected have been directly contacted".in 2011 – with the additional change in state pension ages – that they would face a delay. Some women have argued they weren't informed of the rise in their state pension age at all. However, the Department for Work and Pensions says it did take appropriate steps to notify women of the changes and insists "all women
MP Mhairi Black debates pensions
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BUSINESS
Bank of England retains interest rates despite oil slump and share price slide
The Bank of England has kept interest rates on hold this month, noting volatility in global markets and highlighting a sharp fall in oil prices that is likely to keep inflation low. The Bank of England said it expects only a slight drag on inflation from the renewed plunge in global oil prices as Monetary policy committee voted overwhelmingly
again to keep interest rates at a record low rate of 0.5 per cent, where they have been since March 2009 The Bank also said British economic growth around the turn of the year would probably be a bit slower than it previously forecast, judging from a recent downbeat tone among businesses, but that the fall in oil prices could boost
Younger people likely to be worse off as result of state pension changes, data shows
growth in future.
The BoE, which has been wrongfooted by inflation’s fall below zero, appeared to be keeping its options open ahead of a new set of forecasts due next month. These will set out more clearly its views on how Britain’s economy will fare in 2016, nearly a decade after the start of the global financial crisis.
According to government figures, while many older people will benefit in the coming years, millions who are under forty are likely to be worse off. Most people now in their teens, 20s and 30s will be worse off as a result of changes to the state pension system, while millions of older people will gain, according to the government’s own figures. The DWP paper emerged a day after MPs on the Commons work and pensions committee launched a major inquiry into intergenerational fairness – the question of whether the current generation of people in or approaching retirement will, over the course of their lifetimes,
have enjoyed and accumulated much more housing and financial wealth, public service usage and welfare and pension entitlements than younger people can hope to receive. Financial experts have said that the further into the future we go, the more losers there are. The message to those in their 20’s today is that you can still look forward to a state pension, but it’ll be less generous than that enjoyed by today’s pensioners. Join our pension debate. Are you under 40? Do you think you will be worse off? Email us newsdesk@asiansunday.co.uk or join the debate on twitter #pensiondebate
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FINANCE
According to a motoring group, fuel could become cheaper than bottled water
700 Jobs at risk as troubled supermarket chain plans to seven store closure plan About 700 jobs will be put at risk as supermarket giant Morrisons plans to close stores in home city and at Wigan, Boston, Stowmarket, Braintree, Tunbridge Wells and Hounslow Morrisons has also begun consultation with staff about the closure of stores in Wigan, Boston in Lincolnshire, Stowmarket in Suffolk, Braintree in Essex, Tunbridge Wells in Kent, Hounslow, west London and its only city centre store in Bradford. The closure of Bradford store is likely to be the hardest hit, with around 80 jobs set to go, especially as the city has been attempting to rebuild itself after several years of difficulties.
Motoring expert RAC predicts Fuel could become cheaper than bottled water if the price of oil continues to plummet. Oil prices have fallen by 30 per cent since early December, with Brent crude sinking below $30 a barrel last week. Many analysts predict it could tumble even further, with Standard Chartered warning $10 a barrel is a possibility. The RAC said this could lead to UK motorists paying 86p per litre for fuel, as long as the pound does not continue to weaken against the dollar. In December, supermarket fuel
retailers cut petrol to under £1 per litre for the first time since 2009 – excluding promotions – and last week diesel passed the same figure. Average prices across the country are 102.5p per litre for petrol and 103.2 for diesel.
when a litre of fuel is cheaper than a litre of some bottled waters.”
Simon Williams, of the RAC, said: “With no apparent end in sight to the freefalling price of oil, motorists can expect some really low fuel prices in 2016.
The motoring organisation claimed diesel should be cut even further given current oil prices. “Retailers still need to pass on more wholesale price savings on diesel to motorists at the pump, as the wholesale price is still 3p a litre cheaper than that of petrol,” Williams said.
“Breaking through the £1 a litre price point for both petrol and diesel was clearly a welcome landmark, but it looks as though there is more to come. In fact, we may get to a bizarre time
“We should really be seeing diesel priced several pence cheaper than petrol on every forecourt, to the point where the average price of diesel goes below that of petrol.
The Bradford Westgate store was opened in 1969, making it one of
Morrisons earliest outlets. Morrisons said: “Regrettably we cannot see any improvement in the viability of the Westgate store and are proposing its closure. Many people will know that we have considered closing the store before and have instead decided to carry on trading which is in part down to the hard work of our colleagues. Despite their dedication we have not seen the response from customers needed to secure the store’s future. “This is not the outcome we wanted but we have to make difficult decisions to give the overall business the best chance of success.” The stores are expected to close over the next few months.
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TRAVEL
Pakistan A deeply misunderstood country! by Ayesha Babar Recently I conducted a social experiment: at a friend’s birthday do in London, I decided to (a bit randomly) ask my friends what was the first thing that came to mind when I said Pakistan. In my heart, I sort of knew the answers I would get – extremism, oppression, poverty – at least that is what I heard most often when I had first asked this question to some colleagues some years before. The answers this time around surprised me. The first one to speak was a friend, Sam, who exclaimed that the first word that popped in his mind, was ‘misunderstood’. I couldn’t resist a smile! ‘Misunderstood?’, I wanted to confirm. ‘Yes, misunderstood’ he reiterated. ‘If you had asked me this question a few years ago my answer would have been very different. I too, like most others who have grown up in the Western world, would have said words, none of which would have been positive.’ I was even more delighted when most of the other people in that room, echoed similar sentiments. This got me thinking. Was a paradigm shift actually taking place in terms of how people perceived Pakistan? Marie-Anne, a German friend chipped in too. ‘Yes, we would have said some unpleasant things – but in all honesty, it would not have been our fault. The only exposure we had to Pakistan growing up was through the media. And the things we heard and saw were all mostly negative. It was always depicted as a place with rundown buildings, no respect for culture, ridden with extremism, where women were oppressed and education was sparse. It was only later when friends who were fortunate enough to visit shared a very different narrative. And as I engaged more with social media especially with pages like Humans of New York (who had reported extensively from Pakistan this
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Women’s boxing club in Pakistan summer), I realised more and more about how wrong I had been to judge a place I knew nothing about’.
pieces of news such as the setting up of Pakistan’s first all-women boxing club in Karachi recently.
This small group was fortunate to see a different face of the country – a face that is usually veiled behind a grotesque misunderstanding. It would be silly to deny that there are many problems that plague Pakistan. But that is only one part of the picture. And a small part. There are so many other things that never reach a wider audience.
While a lot of progress has been made, there are still miles to go till the message reaches
It is a diverse amalgamation of different cultures and ethnicity, where traditions are celebrated with much fanfare. Once dubbed as the ‘Switzerland of the East’ the Northern Areas are breathtakingly scenic. The cities are bustling with activity and the tradition of education has been long upheld by iconic institutions such as Government College in Lahore and the Agha Khan Medical University in Karachi. The rich colours of the clothes that the people adorn and the richer history of the different regions will leave an impression on visitors.
photo credit: Sitwat Rizvi
TRAVEL
everyone! If you have not been yet, here are some photos that show this different, much more beautiful side of a nation whose heart beats to the sounds of the sufi Coke Studio as easily as it does to the emerging pop rock sounds.
Beautiful scenic views of Northern Pakistan
Women in Pakistan enjoying a meal out
Picture Courtesy: Hamza Abbas Malik
In the recent years, many, especially from the younger lot, have tried to portray this more positive side of the country. International media correspondents who are based in Pakistan have also made a positive contribution to this endeavour by highlighting some oft neglected
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BUSINESS
What a start to 2016! I love the start to a new year, and this has nothing to do with the two plus weeks of holidays over Christmas! The reason why I like the New Year is because it’s a fresh start, and a time to make new resolutions, which I have to be honest I tend to stick to. This year is no different, but as a couple me and the misses have this year talked about finance, and what we want from this year. I know its boring stuff, but let’s just say we would rather be careful than let our finances go out of control. Just before writing this month’s article I was thinking how many of my loyal readers are doing the same as me, and thinking about the year ahead. I was not confident many people are because let’s face it the credit card statements are dropping on the mat, and the reality is dawning on many of us relating to how much money we spent over Christmas. My view is you cannot turn around what’s happened so do not stew over it, but instead do something about it. I do not like giving statics in my articles but the truth is most of us now owe nearly £13, 500, which has doubled over the last six months from a figure of circa £9, 000, and strangely enough this is three times the figure owed by single parents. This tells me that couples are starting to spend beyond their means. Our regular costs, which is petrol etc. have gone down,
Our columnist Mr Money Bags, who has decades of experience in finance, an MBA, an advanced diploma in financial planning and not to mention his super business skills each edition will give you, our lovely readers some valuable tips and advice on money and business matters. He is forthright and can sometimes be stern when it comes to your cash, but when it comes to finance he really is the expert. Read on for your business and finance advice.
Mr Money Bags
but other things such as holidays have got more expensive; therefore, most of us are actually spending more, but the question is should we be doing this, when RBS have typically scared the living day lights out of many people by predicting doom and gloom, and saying markets will drop and we are likely to be in same position as 2008/2009?
Now, I am not predicting doom and gloom, but I am predicting a slowdown in the markets, as well as recovery slowing down in the country. There is talk of rate rises, but the average family should be more concerned about living beyond their means rather than focusing on issues that might arise or not arise. So, coming back to excess spending over Christmas, let’s all look at how much we have spent, and start paying it off. If you have spent too much on the credit card consider a 0 per cent interest balance transfer, or even a short term loan with a very low rate of interest. The main thing is just do what you think is right for you, and if you have got your head in the sand, the truth is if you keep it there things will spiral out of control! Final point ladies and gentleman, this is a new year so let’s make this a year where we are financially more aware, sensible and doing the right thing by ourselves, and our families. Good Luck and happy New Year.
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MOTORING
Home Owners and Businesses Turn Empty Parking Spaces Into £2Million by Raheema Khan Home and business owners across the UK earned more than £2million in 2015 by renting out their unused parking spaces with YourParkingSpace.co.uk. The online parking marketplace is reminding home and business owners the huge benefit that their unused spaces could have on their finances in 2016. Its customers, both private and commercial, rent out a variety of parking spaces through the site including driveways, private off-street parking spaces, lockup garages and spaces from commercial car park operators. With household finances continuing to be squeezed, renting out unused parking spaces could be a great way to earn extra, regular income. Michael Watson rents out his parking space at his home in West London for £120 per month. “I’d heard through friends the concept of people renting out their unused parking spaces. I was initially a
little concerned that others in the building complex would take issue but with YourParkingSpace I have found an excellent, regular tenant for the space. It also prevents the space being used by drivers who shouldn’t be parking there.” Joan Pryce, from Fareham, near Portsmouth, rents out a garage parking space for £60 per month. “I first discovered the idea of renting out my parking space by looking online. The space and income is fully managed by YourParkingSpace and there’s been no issues as my rental client has been very good. I spend the extra income on household bills, not very exciting but extremely helpful living on a pension and it stops my husband hoarding in the garage!” Those who live near high profile event and sports venues could benefit the most from YourParkingSpace. Joy Farrukh lives close to Wembley Stadium and rents out nine spaces across her two driveways, earning £15 per day for each space when events are taking place.
“My brother introduced me to the idea of renting out my drive as he already knew about it and when he realised the size of both my drives and the location of my homes, he put the idea to me”, said Joy. “I meet and chat with almost all of the drivers because I think it’s important for them to feel a strong element of trust in me knowing that their vehicle is safe and then they are at complete ease as though they’ve parked with me before.” It’s not just individuals and homeowners benefiting from letting parking space, many businesses are also utilising YourParkingSpace’s services. Bruntwood is a family-owned and run property company that provide office space, serviced and virtual offices, meeting rooms and retail premises to companies with over 100 properties across Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and Birmingham. YourParkingSpace.co.uk rent out its unused parking inventory across their property portfolio. Andrew Butterworth, Sales Director at Bruntwood Estates
Ltd, said: “Utilising the services from YourParkingSpace is a fantastic way for us to increase revenue from unused sites. The whole process is easy and straightforward and is an excellent way for businesses to generate extra income for their unused parking space. Taking just one of our sites in Manchester, over £30,000 in incremental revenue was generated by YourParkingSpace in 2015.” Commenting on the amazing sums that its customers earned in
2015, Harrison Woods, managing director of YourParkingSpace. co.uk, said: “It’s great that our customers have earned such significant amounts of money by renting out their unused spaces with us. We hope that even more customers will join our parking revolution in 2016.” For more information on YourParkingSpace.co.uk or to find out about renting out unused parking spaces please visit https:// www.yourparkingspace.co.uk.
Electric Cars Achieve Five Years’ Growth In A Single Year by Raheema Khan Home and business owners across the UK earned more than £2million in 2015 by renting out their unused parking spaces with YourParkingSpace.co.uk. The online parking marketplace is reminding home and business owners the huge benefit that their unused spaces could have on their finances in 2016. Its customers, both private and commercial, rent out a variety of parking spaces through the site
including driveways, private off-street parking spaces, lock-up garages and spaces from commercial car park operators. With household finances continuing to be squeezed, renting out unused parking spaces could be a great way to earn extra, regular income. Michael Watson rents out his parking space at his home in West London for £120 per month. “I’d heard through friends the concept of people renting out their unused parking spaces. I was initially a little concerned that others in the building complex would take issue
but with YourParkingSpace I have found an excellent, regular tenant for the space. It also prevents the space being used by drivers who shouldn’t be parking there.” Joan Pryce, from Fareham, near Portsmouth, rents out a garage parking space for £60 per month. “I first discovered the idea of renting out my parking space by looking online. The space and income is fully managed by YourParkingSpace and there’s been no issues as my rental client has been very good. I spend the extra income on household bills, not very exciting but extremely helpful living on a
pension and it stops my husband hoarding in the garage!” Those who live near high profile event and sports venues could benefit the most from YourParkingSpace. Joy Farrukh lives close to Wembley Stadium and rents out nine spaces across her two driveways, earning £15 per day for each space when events are taking place. “My brother introduced me to the
idea of renting out my drive as he already knew about it and when he realised the size of both my drives and the location of my homes, he put the idea to me”, said Joy. “I meet and chat with almost all of the drivers because I think it’s important for them to feel a strong element of trust in me knowing that their vehicle is safe and then they are at complete ease as though they’ve parked with me before.”
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Issue 14
It’s not just individuals and homeowners benefiting from letting parking space, many businesses are also utilising YourParkingSpace’s services. Bruntwood is a family-owned and run property company that provide office space, serviced and virtual offices, meeting rooms and retail premises to companies with over 100 properties across Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and Birmingham. YourParkingSpace.co.uk rent out its unused parking inventory across their property portfolio. Andrew Butterworth, Sales Director at Bruntwood Estates Ltd, said: “Utilising the services from YourParkingSpace is a fantastic way for us to increase revenue from unused sites. The whole process is easy and straightforward and is
an excellent way for businesses to generate extra income for their unused parking space. Taking just one of our sites in Manchester, over £30,000 in incremental revenue was generated by YourParkingSpace in 2015.” Commenting on the amazing sums that its customers earned in 2015, Harrison Woods, managing director of YourParkingSpace.co.uk, said: “It’s great that our customers have earned such significant amounts of money by renting out their unused spaces with us. We hope that even more customers will join our parking revolution in 2016.” For more information on YourParkingSpace.co.uk or to find out about renting out unused parking spaces please visit https://
Volvo Xc90 revealed as the safest car in Britain Automotive research centre identifies key steps that would make British roads safer as the winners of the 2016 What Car? Car of the Year Safety Award are announced The Volvo XC90 is the safest new car on sale in Britain, and the winner of the 2016 What Car? Car of the Year Safety Award. The Honda Jazz and Toyota Avensis were commended as runners up from among a strong 17 car shortlist for the Award, the results of which were announced on the evening of 13th January 2016. The 2016 Safety Award was judged in conjunction with leading independent automotive research centre and vehicle safety organisation, Thatcham Research, using a set of criteria that combined hard facts with expert opinion. All of the cars considered for the Award have earned the coveted Euro NCAP five star crash test rating and also have Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) standard on at least one model derivative – a point that Thatcham Research cites as vital to ensure the highest safety standards. “It is a great pleasure to be able to formally recognise Volvo, as
well as Honda and Toyota, for the excellent safety performance of their vehicles,” commented Thatcham Research Chief Executive, Peter Shaw. “As the clear winner of the 2016 What Car? Car of the Year Safety Award, the Volvo XC90 has an outstanding complement of active and passive safety features that affords drivers, passengers and other road users the highest levels of protection currently available.” Shaw continued: “Like all of the 17 cars in the final reckoning, the Volvo XC90, Honda Jazz and Toyota Avensis gained top ratings in crash testing, but just as importantly they are fitted as standard with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), a technology that Thatcham Research believes is key to reducing crashes and saving lives on British roads.” Contenders for the 2016 Safety Award were assessed against stringent factors that included adult and child occupant Protection, with pedestrian protection and additional safety innovations including new collision avoidance technologies also considered.
www.yourparkingspace.co.uk. Future market Government anticipates that 5% of new car registrations (around 100,000 units) will be ultra low emission by 2020 – an expectation that appears on track in light of recent growth. As more motorists look to manage running costs, a money-saving end goal could be
MOTORING Go Ultra Low exists to help motorists understand the benefits, cost savings and capabilities of the raft of ultra low emission vehicles on the market. The collaborative campaign is the first of its kind, bringing together a consortium of leading vehicle manufacturers, Government and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Further details are available at www.GoUltraLow.com.
providing the momentum for the surge in electric vehicle popularity. Electric cars can be driven for as little as 2p per mile, compared with 10-12p for a conventionally powered car. Furthering their appeal, the variety of city, family, SUV and sports cars provides the practicality motorists crave, while some boast hybrid range of up to 700 miles.
Rank
Ultra low emission vehicle
2015 Registrations
2014 Registrations
Year-on-year growth
1
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
11,681
5,364
2
Nissan LEAF
5,236
4,051
29%
3
BMW i3
2,213
1,393
59%
Editor’s pick – Car of the Week The new Jaguar XF All-Wheel Drive The all-new XF’s torque on-demand all-wheel drive (AWD) system will, for the first time, be offered with the clean, refined, 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium diesel. The combination of dynamic and traction benefits of AWD with the responsiveness and fuel efficiency of the 180PS/ 430Nm Ingenium engine and eight-speed automatic transmission makes the all-new XF an even more compelling choice in the business segment with CO2 emissions of 129g/km. In normal driving, all of the engine’s torque is sent to the rear axle. Compared to permanent all-wheel drive systems this preserves realwheel drive dynamics and agility, ensures that steering feel remains uncorrupted, and also reduces parasitic losses in the driveline. Control over when torque should be transferred to the front axle – and how much – is determined by Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) – a highly sophisticated technology designed, developed and calibrated entirely in-house. IDD continuously estimates the friction between the tyres and the road surface, and also how much of the available grip is being exploited at each tyre contact patch. First used on the F-TYPE AWD, IDD is integrated into the transfer case and can apply predictive, feedforward control strategies as well as reactive, feedback control. IDD is also networked to the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, the torque vectoring system and Jaguar Drive Control. If IDD predicts that the rear axle is approaching the limit of available
traction, torque is transferred to the front axle. Torque can also be transferred to the front axle to help mitigate oversteer during fast cornering by providing yaw damping. Together with impressive fuel economy of 57.7mpg and CO2 emissions of only 129g/km, the AWD diesel model can achieve 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds. The 180PS Ingenium engine’s maximum torque of 430Nm – one of the highest ratings in the class – is generated from just 1,750rpm, delivering strong mid-range acceleration and outstanding real world performance. Maximum speed is 138mph.
118%
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Issue 14
JOBS
Reporters/Journalists wanted
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Hours of Work: Flexible Salary: £40k OTE (basic, plus car and expenses) Are you a self starter, ambitious, self motivator, have the hunger to achieve and increase earning potential? Then
our Managers at Asian Sunday want to hear from you
communication skills and be educated to a minimum of 5 GCSE’s at grade C or above and have a can do attitude. You will be required to travel nationally and with positions in London and Yorkshire. For the right candidate full training will be given
To apply or for more information email Two positions has become available for a covering letter with your CV to jobs@ Business development Manager to help asiansunday.co.uk with Sales Executive sell our services to Business clients. in the subject field or post to: Asian Sunday Newspaper 18 East You must have a minimum of one Parade, Bradford, BD1 5EE year’s experience selling to B2B customers. You must possess excellent T. 0333 577 0046
Asian Sunday is expanding nationally and therefore is looking for journalists or reporters. We have a cracking news patch here and we want enthusiastic reporters who will get out and about bringing in exclusive stories and getting into the heart of our communities. You will have all your preliminary qualifications, including 100 wpm shorthand. The ideal candidates will have knowledge of Asian Communities living in the UK along with business and lifestyle. We are an equal opportunities employer and therefore accept
applications from all backgrounds. Flexible working hours. Pay scale according to NUJ guidelines and based on experience. To apply send your CV with a covering letter to editor@ asiansunday.co.uk or post to: Asian Sunday Newspaper 18 East Parade, Bradford, BD1 5EE T. 0333 577 0046
DISTRIBUTORS wanted Asian Sunday is expanding and therefore are looking for more distributors. Asian Sunday is now approaching its fourth year and has now launched nationally. Therefore, we are looking for distributors in London, Leicester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Lancashire and Manchester. If you want to earn some extra cash and have a few spare hours over the weekend to deliver the Asian Sunday newspaper to businesses, then we want to hear from you.
You must have your own van or car. Pay: Full car allowance and salary will be paid to the ideal candidates. Hours: Flexible In the first instance please apply with a letter of interest to jobs@asiansunday. co.uk with Distribution as your subject or post letter of interest to: Asian Sunday Newspaper 18 East Parade, Bradford, BD1 5EE T. 0333 577 0046
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Non-Executive Member wanted
– Inspirational Women Foundation
Inspirational Women Foundation is a not for profit organisation established to support, empower and inspire women of any age, any back-ground, whether in the home, at work, in the community or in business.
join the organisation and help make decisions which lead to equality for women locally, nationally and internationally.
Inspirational Women Foundation is looking for like minded individuals who have a passion for community and want to assist in building networks to help support and inspire women locally, nationally and internationally.
4 year appointment, approximately 12 days per year.
Inspirational Women Foundation is currently funded by the proceeds of the Bradford’s Inspirational Women Awards, (now in its fifth successful year) and various funding activities across the country. The foundation is now looking for Non-Executive Board members to
Non-Executive Member
Pay: Voluntary first year. Thereafter £150 per day plus expenses Number of positions: 6 The appointed candidate(s) will be expected to contribute to the strategic development and direction of the IWF, oversee the development and review of key performance targets, ensure the foundation complies with its statutory requirements and ensure that a high standard of corporate governance
Hiring?
are observed at all times. Candidates who are able to offer advice to senior management on a range of general management issues, such as HR matters and management best practice would be advantageous. We are looking for candidates with a background in business, HR, finance, law, training above all with the ability to perform at Board level. Candidates must also be able to demonstrate: integrity and a commitment to transparency of decision-making; effective communication, influencing and inter-personal skills; high level of analytical ability; and the capacity and temperament to work in an open, inclusive and collaborative environment. Previous experience as a Non-
Executive Director is not essential but an aptitude for strategic thinking, the ability to work as part of a team and a commitment to IWF’s objectives are. Applications are welcome from individuals of any background, gender and disabled people who are able to make a real contribution to this organisation. Members are expected to attend quarterly board meetings and to participate in additional meetings, conference calls and sit on ad hoc committees from time to time. Most meetings take place in the evening. Interested candidates should submit a CV to founder@ inspirationalwomenawards.org.uk with a covering letter explaining why you believe you are suitable for the role.
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ASIAN SUNDAY 37
MATRIMONIALs
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ASIAN SUNDAY
Issue 14
Sports
Farah Looking to Pack a Real Punch in The Boxing World by Ayyaz Malik
Farah Jamil, is dedicated in making boxing a more acceptable sport for Asian women in Scotland
Asian’s in sport has always had the stigma attached to it, the lack of acceptance by the masses, but as far as Asian girls are concerned that negative stigmas seem a lot worse than that of their male counterparts. One young Asian lady Farah Jamil, a 25-year old Asian who is an amateur boxer from Glasgow, Scotland is on a mission to change that, especially since she is the only Asian female boxer in Scotland. Farah has always been a sporty person, in fact, the Glaswegian use to do judo only a couple of years ago, which only emphasises the drive this young lady has to excel in the sporting field. Farah though decided to move
into a career in the ‘squared ring’ rather than the ‘judo mat’. Thankfully for the 25-year old Glaswegian, the switch to boxing helped her career change for the better. Farah Jamil can boast of winning the Scottish champion in 2014 and being able to compete in several tournaments since. Not content to ‘rest on her laurels’ Farah will be going for the Scottish champion again in March this year. The young Scots lady is currently nursing a wrist injury, so we hope she gets well soon! Farah, here at Asian Sunday we’re inspired by your story and we hope you’re able to succeed at the highest level of women’s boxing. You’re a very determined
and hardworking young lady, all the best in your career. Be sure to keep reading Asian
Sunday where we will keep you up to date with Farah Jamil’s progress.
Liverpool Use Their Allen Key to Unlock Arsenal by Ayyaz Malik A late Joe Allen goal allowed Liverpool to salvage a point in what was truly a breathtaking game that ended 3-3. In a game that quite literally swung like a pendulum,
it was Liverpool who started this game the brighter. Emre Can who didn’t have the best of nights on the night struck a shot which was only parried by Arsenal keeper Petr Cech. Roberto Firminho, who was preferred to
Christian Benteke on the night gratefully capitalised on Cech’s error and placed his effort into the bottom right corner. Liverpool would have been looking to draw inspiration from previous matches when they have scored early in matches, but sadly for them, it wasn’t to be. Arsenal who had been second best at this point, against the run of play managed to draw level through Aaron Ramsey. The Welshman expertly converted after a very clever through-ball from Costa Rican Joel Campbell. Those two goals within the first 20 minutes of the match would only be the start of the drama and excitement.
Liverpool’s Joe Allen celebrates his dramatic late equaliser against Arsenal at Anfield
The first half of this game was brilliant and exciting, it was literally the case of if you would
have blinked in the first half you would have missed something. After losing their lead, the Anfield side retook to the lead in spectacular fashion.
turned provider and sent over a cross for French striker Olivier Giroud who duly converted to score his eighteenth goal in what has been an amazing season so far.
Somebody obviously didn’t tell Firminho that the Puskas award has already been awarded, but maybe the 24-year old has put his name into the hat for next year’s nomination. The Brazilian who got his side’s first goal brilliantly added Liverpool’s second and his second. The former Hoffenheim man brilliantly placed his curling effort into the top corner of Petr Cech’s goal, which left the former Chelsea keep with no chance.
Arsenal did have a chance to take the lead soon after, but somehow Olivier Giroud managed to miss from only a couple of yards out when it would have been easier to score. Liverpool also had a chance to go in at the break in front, but unfortunately for The Reds, Firminho’s effort shaved the top of the bar.
Liverpool would have thought surely, this time, they can take control of the game, but again Arsenal hit back. Scorer of the first goal Aaron Ramsey, this time,
Roberto Firminho’s effort was one of the last acts in what was a breathtaking first half. After such a good first half, it was going to be difficult for the second half to be even half as good - and sadly that’s how it panned out.
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Sports While the first half, the game was more open, the second however turned into a little bit more of a cagey affair. The home-side Liverpool had the better of the play, but ever so slightly. After withstanding some Liverpool pressure who grew more into the game, Arsenal took the lead on the night for the first time. French striker Giroud who had a very eventful night after scoring one goal, missing a sitter and suffering a head injury in the buildup for the first goal, grabbed his second of the night after Liverpool failed to clear a set-piece. With nearly half an hour left to play and the weather deteriorating, visitors
Arsenal would have been confident of closing out this game for a precious three points.
over their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Liverpool after this result drop
to ninth below Stoke who beat Norwich 3-1. As for the actual game itself, it was a fantastic
advert for the Premier League, you can why people say this is the best league in the world.
The Gunners did try and close the game out by bringing on club captain Mikel Arteta to shore things up in midfield, but that decision backfired as Joe Allen who is known as the ‘Welsh Xavi’ equalised with a well-placed shot into the left corner in the dying minutes of what was an enthralling game. As good a game as it was, this result doesn’t benefit either side. Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table is now cut to goal difference only after Leicester’s superb win
What Ever The ISL Can Do The BSL Can Do Better? by Ayyaz Malik After the success of the Indian Super League (ISL), a new Bangladesh football league, The Bangladesh Super Soccer League which is a proposed football league in Bangladesh set up by the Bangladesh Football Federation and Soccer League UK, will launch in 2017. The league will see eight franchises competing against each other, with each representing the cities of Bangladesh. The Bangladesh league which will be similar to the infrastructure of their Indian counterparts will feature big international players alongside Bangladeshi players. Qatar Football Association and France Football Federation have shown interest in investing in the league. According to Soccer League UK, Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet and Cox’s Bazar will be hosting matches during the first season of the tournament. Soccer League UK have expressed a firm interest in buying tournament rights and look set to acquire the tournament rights for $750 million. German sportswear giants Adidas and American sportswear giant Nike have
Bangladesh National Football Team. Proposed Bangladesh Super Soccer League,could give Bangladesh football the attention it deserves
expressed interest in sponsoring franchises. When the Indian Super League
was formed it attracted some legendary football talent such as ex-world cup winner Robert Pires for example. That, in turn, raised
the profile of football in India. Bangladesh will be hoping that when the league starts in 2017, that they could attract players
of such talent which will help raise the profile of football in Bangladesh.
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Issue 14
Sports
Snooker Needs to Master the Art of Making Snooker Appealing
by Ayyaz Malik Snooker for so long seemed like it lacked diversity in terms of the pros who play it, when I was growing up I was accustomed to players such as the legendary Stephen Hendry and Ronnie O’Sullivan in their prime. As good as an era that was for snooker, there was smoothing missing, the lack of diversity,
the lack of players from other backgrounds. Players such as James Wattana and Pakistani player Shokat Ali were on the circuit, but players like these were few and far between. With due respect to both of these players, they were in tournaments to almost make up the numbers. Fast forward a decade or so however and slowly it looks like that fact is changing. Snooker chief
Hamzah Akbar a player that could do with a better chance in tournaments
Barry Hearn since he has been in charge of the world game has attempted to increase the global appeal of snooker by bringing it to different parts of the world. Places such as India, for example, have benefited by hosting snooker tournaments and, in particular, players like Aditya Mehta who went to the semi-finals of the Indian Open in 2013. In that same event, British born Bengali player Hammed Miah reached the second round and actually ended up losing to Aditya. Whether one likes it or not, snooker needs to make sure it sells itself properly commercially. Money is making the world and sporting world go round, that’s a fact just look at the IPL for example. The fact that the IPL generates a lot of money has, in turn, helped develop big crowds and TV revenue for example. The main selling point is that the best cricket talent across the globe
comes to India to ply their trade. In the case of snooker, they are doing that, but slowly it seems and ‘half-hearted’. If we look at the ongoing Snooker Masters, for example, the lack of diversity is for all to see. Yes, there are some Asian players from the Far East, (three to be exact) in this tournament but this tournament only consists of the top 16 players in the world. Personally, I hope that Barry Hearn uses the wildcard system to enable more talent to come through. Players like Hammad Miah and Aditya Mehta have performed well when on a level playing field. Maybe even Hamza Akbar can have a better chance in tournaments as well, Akbar lost to Ronnie O’Sullivan in a German Masters qualifier, but I am sure such an experience could only do him the world of good in the long run. With these three players, one
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Snooker chief, Barry Hearn
can see that slowly players from a South Asian background are coming through, snooker needs to persevere with what they’re doing. As much as I love snooker, in my humble opinion snooker bosses need to have all tournaments with the wild card system. Snooker is a world sport, they need to find more ways to attract all countries to the sport such as South Asian countries and beyond and I think this is the way forward of achieving that (wild card system). All the major sports are able to market itself over the world as the playing talent is from all over the world until snooker does the same, I think snooker as a brand could be harmed in the longer run. The crowds won’t flock in their hundreds and thousands overnight necessarily, but the snooker authorities need to at least try. Let’s not forget Rome wasn’t built in a day.