Shocking visuals of CPM activists being hacked are out; four arrested

MALAPPURAM:  Shocking video footages of a group of armed men hacking CPM activists in the middle of the road in broad day light in Thiroor have come out on Thursday. Following this, police arrested four suspects after an intense day-long search.

The CPM alleged that the attackers were SDPI activists and the government had also confirmed it.

Tension griped the area after TV channels flashed visuals of the gangsters once again attacking the hapless CPM activists, who were writhing in pain from the first attack.

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said that there were 13 attackers and the police hadbeen able to identify four among them. Later reports said the police were able to arrest Majeed, Naufal, Abdul Gafoor, and Sahinoor.

Meanwhile, CPM State secretary Pinarayi Vijayan has said that Muslim League should clarify their policy and alleged that the League abetted the crime. “ It is the terror face of the League that is being unveiled through the incident,” he said.

The home minister said that special team was formed to investigate the case. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy also added that nobody would be allowed to take law in their own hands

The victims are CPM Purathoor local committee members A K Majeed and Arshad and the incident is said to be a fallout of Malappuram Mangalam Grama panhchayat by-election. The two, who have sustained severe injuries in head, arms and legs, have been admitted to medical college hospital.     

It all started when CPM activists were celebrating their election win. Suddenly a Popular Front activist rode a bike into the celebration party, resulting in an altercation. The guy was manhandled and handed over to the police.

Later the CPM activists who were travelling in a car were waylaid and attacked.

NSS betrayed us: Vellappally

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: SNDP general secretary Vellapally Nadesan alleged on Thursday that the NSS had betrayed the SNDP. He told a private TV channel that the former was using his organisation for its own benefit.  

Vellapally said that he was late in understanding NSS general secretary Sukumaran Nair. “We are not in good terms with him now. The key and keys of administration is in the hands of NSS,” he added.

CBI inquiry into TP murder case plausible, Govt told

KOZHIKODE: Kerala government has got the advice that it can consider the possibility of ordering a CBI inquiry into T P Chandrasekharan murder case.  

The advice comes from Director General of Prosecution Asif Ali. The suggestion is that there is no legal hurdles in ordering CBI probe into the conspiracy allegedly hatched to kill TP in 2009. The case in this regard was registered in Chembola police station  

Kalamandalam principal suspended


THRISSUR:  M Unnikrishnan, principal of Kerala Kalamandalam, has been suspended from service. He was suspended on investigation following a complaint lodged against him for misbehaving towards a temporary teacher.

I’ve not decided to partake in Pinarayi’s march, says Gowri Amma

ALAPPUZHA: I’ve not decided whether to attend the march led by CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan flagging off in Alappuzha tomorrow, said JSS state general secretary K R Gowri Amma.

I cannot take a decision alone. I’ve to consider with the party leadership, she said.

Pinarayi had earlier asserted that he is not against Gowri Amma attending the march.

Chandy requests to make changes on import duty of rubber

NEW DELHI: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that he has requested Union Minister Anand Sharma to make changes in the import duty of rubber in order to bring down the fall in the price of rubber.  Talking to the media, he said that he has also proposed to provide financial help for the procurement of rubber.

The farmers in the state are anxious in the fall. Still, the state will go forward in the procurement. The anxiety of farmers was brought to the notice of the union minister. The minister has taken a favorable stand on the demands of the state.

Chandy has also informed Union Minister Veerappa Moily on the anxiety in the Kasturirangan report.

Clearance has obtained for the spices park in Idukki and convention centre in Kochi. Land has to be acquired for it.

In reply to a question, he said talks will be held with allied parties on the selection of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls. The high command has to take a final decision on the new KPCC chief and it will be announced soon, he said.

Rahul corrupt, will field candidate against him: Kejriwal

NEW DELHI: Targeting Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Friday accused him of being corrupt and said the party will field candidates against him, UPA ministers and leaders of other parties.

He also took a jibe at BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi and the Congress Vice-President for spending over "Rs 500 crore on branding" and image-building exercise.

Drawing up a list of "corrupt" politicians, Kejriwal said the party will field candidates against them.

The list included Gandhi, several UPA ministers, SP supremo Mulayam Singh, BSP chief Mayawati, Union Ministers P Chidambaram and Sushil Kumar Shinde and former BJP president Nitin Gadkari, among others.

Addressing the National Council meeting attended by Aam Aadmi Party volunteers from across the country, Kejriwal said, "I have prepared a list of dishonest (politicians) of the country. If you come across any honest politician in the list then please tell me.

"I am asking for the country's approval on whether to defeat (these politicians) or send them to the Parliament."

Kejriwal said the party will field candidates against Gandhi, Union Ministers Shinde, Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal, G K Vasan, Salman Khurshid, Veerappa Moily, Prakash Jaiswal, Kamal Nath, Pawan Bansal, as well as MPs Naveen Jindal, Avtar Singh Bhadana, Anu Tandon, Suresh Kalmadi and Assam CM Tarun Gogoi.

"I have started the list. Till evening, you (AAP workers) prepare a list and submit it the party," he told AAP workers.
The Chief Minister slammed Gandhi and Modi for engaging in expensive image branding campaigns.

"They spent Rs 500 crore for image makeover...To prepare brand Modi and brand Rahul, they are spending Rs 500 crore. Can these people, who spend Rs 500 crore for branding, give an honest government? After they come to power, they will recover that money from us," he said.

Kejriwal said the party's motto was not to seize power, but to eradicate corruption. "Our motto is not to seize power and do politics for power like BJP and Congress. Our motive should be no corrupt leader and no one from dynasty politics should enter Parliament," he said.

Kejriwal said AAP candidates will also be fielded against Union Minister Farooq Abdullah, DMK MPs Alagiri, former Minister A Raja, Kanimozhi and NCP leaders and Union Ministers Sharad Pawar and Praful Patel.

Attacking BJP, Kejriwal said AAP will contest elections against BJP's youth wing leader Anurag Thakur, former national president Nitin Gadkari, BJP national secretary Ananth Kumar and former Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa.

"We trusted these parties for 65 years and thought that they will do good to the nation, but they betrayed us. After 65 years, we have an opportunity that a common man will go inside Parliament and talk about his rights," Kejriwal said.

AAP will also field candidates against JD(S) leader and former Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and YSR Congress chief Jaganmohan Reddy, he said.

Attacking political parties for passing "lame" Lokpal bill last year, he said the bill is not even capable of "killing a rat...finishing corruption (with the Lokpal Bill) is a far-sighted thing."

He said he was not sure whether the Janlokpal Bill of the Delhi government will be passed as AAP did not have numbers in the House. "We do not have majority in the House. And even if we pass the bill, it is not sure whether the Centre will approve it."

Congratulating his government for the work done in one month, Kejriwal claimed that corruption cases have come down drastically and that was their biggest achievement. "What the (previous) governments could not do in 65 years, our government did in a month. For five years, BJP and Congress said audit (of power discoms) cannot be undertaken because of a case in the High Court. When we came to power, we gave an order of auditing these companies in five days.

"28 years have passed after the 1984 anti-Sikh riots took place and Sikh brothers have been demanding a probe. Congress and BJP only demanded a probe, but when our government came to power, we asked LG (Lt Governor) to form a committee. On Monday, we will take a decision on this in the Cabinet," he said.

No compromise on two seats, says K M Mani

KOTTAYAM: There is no compromise from its demand for two seats in the Lok Sabha polls, said Kerala Congress (M) chairman and Finance Minister K M Mani. The party deserves two seats, he said.

The matter will be voiced at the appropriate time at the apt venue, he said.

The high powered panel meeting of the Kerala Congress will be convened in Kottayam tomorrow, he said.

Jazeera withdraws strike, heads to Chittilappilly’s house

NEW DDELHI: Jazeera of Kannur, who was protesting against sand mafia for the past 116 days in the national capital, has withdrawn her strike. She decided to withdraw her strike after the chief minister assured to take steps against the sand mafia.

Meantime, she said that she has decided to contest polls against A P Abdullahkutty MLA, who wrote an article against her. Abdullahkutty along with the police are supporting the sand mafia, she alleged.

Jazeera said she will be going straight to industrialist Kochouseph Chittilappilly’s house. She said that she has not refused the reward of Rs 5 lakhs announced by him. I just said that I will not accept the money along with Sandhya Suresh, who voiced her protest against the LDF agitation.
I didn’t protest for money. He announced the reward publicly and if the money is not given, then he should announce it openly. Otherwise, I’ll stage a hunger strike in front of his house, she told media.

Meantime, Chittilappilly said that he never told the money will not be given. I’m ready to deposit the money in her children’s bank account, he said.

Modi would have whipped NaMO Vichar Manch activists: Muraleedharan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: If Narendra Modi had come to know about some dissidents forming an organisation using his name (NaMo for Narendra Modi), he would have whipped them, BJP State president V Muraleedharan has said.  

He was responding to a question about some 12 BJP dissidents joining the CPM. He also asked the CPM to publish the names of BJP activists in the CPM, if the number had reached 2000.

BJP censures Shoba Surendran

KOTTAYAM:  The national leadership of the BJP has censured senior leader Shoba Surendran, who sent a complaint against party state president V Muraleedharan, from speaking to the media. The directive was given by a national leader of the state.

In the complaint she had alleged that the situation in Kannur where leaders like O K Vasu and M K Ashokan joining the CPM could have been averted if the BJP leadership in Kerala had taken action against the party's district president.  She said that though several allegations were made against the district leader, the leadership was reluctant to take action.

Shoba informed the media yesterday that she had sent a complaint against state BJP president V Muraleedharan to party chief Rajnath Singh and Narendra Modi. The complaint stated that Muraleedrahan is behaving like an autocrat.

She has been directed not to create any problems as all are engaged in the programme to be attended by Narendra Modi in the first week of February.

Meantime, it has been mentioned that state president V Muraleedharan and Shoba Surendran are locking horns for Rajya Sabha seat.

SDPI leader sustains hack injuries


PALAKKAD: A leader belonging to the SDPI outfit was hacked by some miscreants at Vaniyamkkulam in the district. He has been identified as E S Khaja, a district president of the outfit.

Court had observed Lavalin case not entitled for trial: Pinarayi

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram CBI court had observed that the SNC Lavalin case was not entitled for trial, said CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan.  That verdict still exists and some may have been disappointed on it, he said.         

Pinarayi said this while reacting to CBI filing review petition in the case. The court had claimed that the case not entitled for trial was charged with an offence.

Pinarayi asked the Muslim League to make their stand clear on the attack towards CPM activists at Tirur in Malappuram. They are trying to protect terrorists. The congress and the UDF are joining hands with communalism.  The congress has the same policies as that of the BJP.
Even after the court made criticisms against the chief minister, he is clinging to the post which is anti-democratic.

The congress is not able to announce the KPCC chief as the internal affairs in the party are severe. With the accommodation of Ramesh Chennithala, the congress is in a more pitiable situation.  
Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is a symbol of genocide. Modi will go to any extent to execute the orders of RSS. Modi is the prime ministerial candidate to implement the teachings of RSS, he said.

Kavya in Jeethu’s film?

Director Jeethu Joseph himself had informed that post his box-office hit Drishyam, he would be directing two films. The hearsay was that Dileep, Prithviraj and Mommotty would be the heroes in the films.

But now, reports have come that dear actress Kavya is going to be the protagonist in his next film. It will be a “heroine-centric” film. However, the final word about the cast is yet to be announced officially.    

Kavya will also be acting in the film Thantethallatha karanathal, to be directed by Radhakrishnan Mangalathu. The shoot will begin in April.

Colonel fires at two pedestrians

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A scuffle that followed a minor vehicle accident culminated in a retired army officer gunning two pedestrians and injuring them at Valiyavila near here on Wednesday.

The injured are Venkateswara Roa and Manoj. The army officer who fired at them in a fit of rage is Colonel Berlin. The quarrel started when Berlin’s vehicle hit Rao and Manoj. The local people soon waylaid the army officer and enraged by the people’s act Berlin took out his gun and fired at the two pedestrians.

Jamaat-e-Islami Hind under vigil: Govt

KOCHI: "Islamic organization, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JEIH) doesn’t abide by Indian constitution and legal system," said Kerala Home department in an affidavit submitted before the high court. It also added that the organisation is under constant government vigil.

The government’s affidavit was filed in response to a petition filed by one Adul Samad, seeking a ban on JEIH.  

“The home department has examined 97 books of the organisation, out of which 14 have contents that go against communal harmony. There is evidence to show that the JEIH has been involved in anti-national activities. The proof establishes the organisation’s link with Left-wing extremism. JEIH has also held anti-government demonstrations in association with certain organisations,” said the affidavit submitted by Under Secretary (Home department).        

Burnt body of housewife: Accused gets life term

THRISSUR: The accused in the case related to finding of charred body of a housewife along National Highway was awarded life sentence by a fast track court in Thrissur on Wednesday.

The deceased was Shanta (47) from Nellankara and the accused in the case is Palaveettil Jileesh from Chakkudi.    

The incident happened in June 2003. Shanta’s body with burnt face and stomach was found in a conduit in front of Koratti government press.

Lump sum tax on autos withdrawn

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The lump sum tax imposed on autos has been withdrawn, informed Finance Minister K M Mani in the assembly.  He took the decision after there were wide spread protests on the hike. Mani announced the decision while replying to the demand for grants in the assembly. 

The amount for the debt relief of fishermen has been raised to 10 crores from one crore. The government will strongly intervene to prevent the fall in the price of rubber. An amount of Rs 10 crores has been granted for the procurement of rubber.

The honorarium for Anganwadi and Asha workers has been raised to Rs 2000 and 1000 respectively.

Special schools with 100 students will be made aided schools. All welfare pensions have been increased by Rs 100.

AAP leaders not providing info on party funding: Centre to HC

NEW DELHI: The Centre on Wednesday told the Delhi high court that AAP leaders, including chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, have not provided the information sought by them on the funding received by the party.

"We have asked for certain details from them regarding bank accounts and other information vide our letter dated November 4, 2013. We had also sent another letter to them. But there is no answer," Additional Solicitor General Rajeeve Mehra, appearing for the ministry of home affairs, told the court.

Meanwhile, the bench headed by justice Pradeep Nandrajog asked petitioner advocate M L Sharma to also implead AAP as one of the respondents in the PIL filed by him seeking lodging of a criminal case against founding members of the party, including Kejriwal, for allegedly receiving foreign funds in violation of law.

"AAP is a registered political party. Why you have not made them a party? File an amended memo of parties by next date of hearing i.e. February 5," the bench said.

Besides Kejriwal, the petitioner has made AAP leaders Manish Sisodia, Shanti Bhushan and Prashant Bhushan as party in his PIL.

The high court had earlier asked the Centre to look into "afresh" the accounts of AAP to find out the source of money received by it after its inception.

The order had came after the Centre had filed a report in which it had said that an evaluation of the accounts of civil society of Team Anna was done in 2012 and a report was filed before another bench of the high court last year in a similar PIL filed by the petitioner earlier.

The Centre had earlier submitted before the court that the issue raised by the petitioner in his PIL has already been investigated and a report was prepared on the issues earlier by the government.

Sharma, in his plea, had cited some names including that of Kejriwal and sought that "a direction be issued to register a criminal case against the respondents (AAP members) under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) and to conduct day-to-day trial proceedings under court supervision in the interest of justice."

SC seeks report on Madhani’s health condition

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court directed to submit a report on the health condition of PDP chairman Abdul Nazar Madhani, arrested and jailed in Karnataka in the Bangalore blasts case.  The court directed the doctors of the Manipal Hospital who treated the leader to submit the report at the earliest.

The court asked to hospitalize him for check-up and a decision on his bail plea will be taken after obtaining the report. The court will consider his case again on March 26.

Meantime, the Karnataka Government strongly opposed granting bail to Madhani.
He has been charged for conspiracy and abetment. The Karnataka Government asked that if bail is granted to him and he leaves the state then it is not sure whether he will return back or not.

Kannur airport: Pvt partnership cut to 16 pc

THIRUVANANTHPURAM: Minister K Babu has informed the Assembly that the government has restructured the shareholding pattern of Kannur airport. “Defence Minister A K Antony will inaugurate the stone-laying ceremony of the airport on February 2. The change to the shareholding pattern was effected after the Airport Authority of India mooted for the same,” said the minister.
      
The minister said: “The private share of 46 per cent has been reduced to 16 per cent and the government’s share has been increased from 26 to 35 per cent. The share of public sector will be 23 per cent and that of the Airport Authority of India will be 26 per cent. For the first phase of the construction of the airport, the estimated expense is Rs 1792 crore. The first flight from the Kannur airport will take off on December 31, 2015.  

Tanker lorry overturns in Haripad

ALAPPUZHA: The driver and cleaner of the tanker lorry sustained injuries after it overturned near the R K Junction in Haripad at 3.15 am early Wednesday morning. A major tragedy has been averted as the gas leakage was contained. People residing within 500 metres of the area were evacuated as part of precautionary measures.  

The tanker involved in the accident was going to Kottayam from Tutucorin. Police and fire force have reached the spot. Transportation on the national highway was diverted due to the incident.

Kasturirangan report rocks assembly, debate tomorrow

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:  LDF Opposition members Wednesday disrupted proceedings in the House, seeking a debate on the Kasturirangan committee report on Western Ghats conservation forcing the Speaker to adjourn the Assembly for an hour.

LDF members were irritated over the Centre's assertion before the National Green Tribunal yesterday that order restricting industrial activities and mining in Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESA), as specified by the report, stands.

They alleged that it was contrary to the assurance given by the Centre that the Kasturirangan report suggestions would be implemented only after considering the state's views.

Unruly scenes were witnessed when five slogan shouting MLAs from the high range region, including a woman MLA, Bijumol from Idukki, climbed the Speaker's podium while many others moved to the Well of the House demanding a debate on the issue.

Speaker G Karthikeyan, who held consultations with Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Opposition leader V S Achuthanandan announced when the House reassembled that an agreement has been reached to hold the debate tomorrow.

CPM deputy leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, who raised the issue through a notice for adjournment motion, alleged that government failed to protect interest of farmers as settler farmers in 123 villages identified as ESA by Kasturirangan report were under the fear of an 'undeclared eviction' threat. No development activities would take place, he said.

LDF wanted the "anti-farmer" recommendations in the report to be deleted and demarcation of 123 villages as ESA should be reviewed, he said. "People in high range regions are in a grip of anxiety over the new development," he added.

Replying to the notice, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy asserted that there was no ground for anxiety and "nothing has changed."

The 'Office memorandum' issued by Environment Ministry on December 20 last that final decision on the Kasturirangan report would be taken only after consultation with states concerned stands, he said.

"State government is committed to protecting the interest of farmers in the region and was confident that state would succeed in getting necessary modifications in the report," he added.

One more judge recuses to hear revision plea in Lavalin case

KOCHI: Another judge of the Kerala High Court Wednesday recused himself from hearing the revision petition against the discharge of CPM state secretary, Pinarayi Vijayan in the SNC-Lavalin graft case.

When the petition by T P Nanda Kumar, chief editor of Crime magazine, came up before Justice M L Joseph Francis, he recused himself. The petitioner had challenged the order of discharge by CBI special court, Thiruvananthapuram, against Pinarayi and six others.

CCTV visuals of Fayaz meeting P Mohanan exposed

KOZHIKODE:  The visuals of Fayaz, accused in the gold smuggling case, meeting CPM leader P Mohanan Master at the Kozhikode district jail, have been exposed. The CCTV visuals show the two coming out after holding talks from the jail welfare officer’s room on June 8 in 2013.

The talks were held when Mohanan Master was serving trial in the TP Chandrasekharan murder case. The court had acquitted him in the case.

Fayaz’ visit to the jail in traditional Arabic dress had sparked a controversy then.   Mohanan Master had stated earlier that he has not seen Fayaz.

GPS to be installed in tanker lorries, says Rishiraj Singh

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Global Positioning System (GPS) will be installed in all tanker lorries operating services in the state, said Transport Commissioner Rishiraj Singh.

They will be given one month’s time to install it and if failed to do so at the stipulated time, they will not be allowed to enter the state, he said.

Check will be strengthened to implement the condition that tanker lorries should have two drivers. 

Shoba Surendran complains against BJP State president

NEW DELHI:  Mahila Morcha State president Shobha Surendran has written a letter to BJP central leadership, complaining against BJP State president V Muraleedharan and asking the leadership to remove him from the president’s post.   

“Muraleedharan is behaving like an autocrat in the party. He has not been heeding to senior leaders’ advice nor has he been making any attempt to coordinate the leaders,” said Shobha in the letters sent to BJP national president Rajnath Singh and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi    

In the letter, Shobha has also alleged that it was in protest against Muraleedharan’s policies that certain BJP activists left the party and formed NaMo Vichar Manch in Kannur. “If Muraleedharan had listened to the leaders’ advice, such a thing would not have happened. Similar developments are happening in places including Palakkad,” she pointed out.

Facebook insult: Police to register case

KOCHI: City Police Commissioner K J James has asked Ernakulam North CI to file a case on the incident in which Vijitha, a woman from Kochi, committed suicide after she was allegedly insulted through Facebook comments.

Case will be based on the police complaint lodged by Vijitha’s husband earlier.   

The Commissioner has also asked Cheranallur police to register a case against Thottappali native Ratheesh, if necessary.
Ratheesh had allegedly insulted the woman through Facebook and SMSes, following which the lady hanged herself to death.

Govt hopeful of getting Centre's approval for Bill

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government Tuesday expressed hope that it would be able to get Presidential assent to the 'Plachimada Coca-Cola Victims Relief and Compensation Claims Special Tribunal Bill-2011, passed by the state Assembly.

Replying to a submission by A K Balan (CPI-M) on the "delay" in getting assent to the bill, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the state was committed to get the approval as the bill was passed unanimously.

'Centre has asked for certain clarifications three times and state had already replied'. The matter is at the final stage and our effort is to get assent to the Bill', Chandy said.

The bill proposed to establish a Tribunal to try all disputes for compensation and secure it from Coco-Cola Company.

A high level committee appointed by the state government to report the loss caused to the people had estimated an amount of Rs 216.25 crore as compensation due from the firm. The Bill was passed based on the recommendations of the high level committee.

Coca-Cola closed down its unit at Plachimada in Palakkad in March 2004, following agitation by locals complaining of environment pollution and over exploitation of ground water by the company.

UDF meet postponed, talks to solve CMP dispute to continue


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy will hold talks with the two warring sections of the CMP on February 2 as part of solving the problems in the party. The UDF meet scheduled for January 30 has been postponed in order to give more time for talks and to convene the meeting with everyone.

The UDF had informed the CMP that they will be retained only if the problems are solved. Following that, the K R Aravindakshan and CP John factions have temporarily stopped group meetings and conventions.

These two usually represent the party in UDF meetings.

Decision on CBI probe after getting legal advice, says Chennithala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala Tuesday said a decision on the CBI probe in TP murder case will be taken after obtaining legal advice. Talking to reporters here, he said the role of CPM has been revealed after the sentence of the accused.

Many including TP’s wife Rema and opposition leader V S Achuthanandan have sought a CBI probe in the case. The government is also considering approaching the court against the acquittal of the accused.

The court verdict upholds the argument of the government and the prosecution.  The minister praised the prosecution for striving hard in the case.

Chennithala also lauded former home minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan for his role in speeding up the probe.

Pinarayi to respond after studying verdict in TP case

KANNUR: CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan Tuesday said that he will respond on the sentence awarded to the accused in the TP murder case after studying the verdict.

Talking to reporters after the sentence was pronounced, Pinarayi said the CPM central leadership will not take action against its activists on the basis of the court verdict. Leaders said a decision will be taken after obtaining the report of the party commission.

Meantime, politburo member Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said the party will move the court for the CPM leaders convicted in the case.

CPM central committee member E P Jayarajan said all steps will be taken to prove the innocence of the party leaders.

CPM cannot distance from responsibility of TP murder case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The CPM cannot distance away from the responsibility of murdering RMP leader T P Chandrasekharan, said Chief minister Oommen Chandy.

The stand of the CPM that they have no role in the murder case has stained the party’s image with the court verdict, Chandy said this while responding to the sentence.

The court verdict is one putting an end to political murders, said Chandy.

Endosulfan strike withdrawn

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The strike staged by endosulfan victims in front of the Cliff House has been withdrawn. It was withdrawn following talks held with the chief minister and other ministers. 

The chief minister assured to include more panchayats in areas where people suffer the most.  The government also assured to provide the first installment of the financial aid given to the victims before March 31.

Verdict a relief, says Rema

KOZHIKODE: K K Rema, widow of TP Chandrasekharan Tuesday said the life imprisonment awarded to 11 accused in the TP murder case has brought some relief to her. She welcomed the decision.

Talking to reporters soon after pronouncing the quantum of sentence, she said she preferred death sentence and will approach the higher court against the verdict. 

Manju ‘deletes’ Dileep

Much has been talked about Malayalam’s sweet actress Manju Warrier’s estrangement with her actor-husband Dileep. Now, the couple is said to be heading for a split, though it is not officially confirmed. The matter is, but, a closely guarded secret.     

The latest buzz is that Manju Warrier is going to remove Dileep’s name from her passport. Her name in the passport (K2256832) is Manju Gopalakrishnan. Gopalakrishnan is the original name of Dileep. Manju has done paperwork to replace Gopalakrishnan with Warrier and change the address currently appearing in the passport. Manju also recently gave an advertisement in the newspaper in this regard.   

Manju Warrier’s marital life has been on the rocks for some months now. Since June last, she has been living with her parents. Their daughter Meenakshi has been with Dileep. (Manju and Dileep married on October 20, 1998.)

However, the recent news kind of reaffirms the story of their break-up. Moreover, there were reports that Manju had moved Thrissur family court to get divorce from Dileep. It was also lately that Manju re-launched her filmi carrier.      

11 including three CPM local leaders get life imprisonment in TP case

KOZHIKODE: Eranhipalam Special Additional Sessions Court judge R Narayana Pisharady awarded life imprisonment to 11 accused including three CPM local leaders found guilty in RMP leader T P Chandrasekharan murder case. 31st accused M K Pradeepan aka Lambu has been sentenced to three years.

Those awarded life imprisonment are M C Anoop (1st accused), Manoj Kumar aka Kirmani Manoj (2nd accused), N K Sunil Kumar aka Kodi Suni (3rd accused), T K Rajeesh (4th accused), K K Mohammed Shafi (5th accused), Annan Shijith (6th accused), K Shinoj (7th accused), K C Ramachandran (8th accused), member of the Kunnummakkara local committee Manojan aka Trouser Manojan (11th accused), former branch secretary of Kadanganpoyil of the CPI(M) P K Kunhanandan (13th accused) and member of the Panur area committee of the CPI (M) P V Rafeeque (18th accused).

A fine of Rs 50,000 each has been imposed on the first seven accused.  K C Ramachandran, Trouser Manoj and P K Kunhanandan have to pay an amount of Rs 100, 000 each as fine.  

The first seven accused were found guilty under Section 302, 143, 147 and 149 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The accused from second to seventh were found guilty under Section 148. However the second and third accused was also convicted under Sections of the Explosive Substances Act.

T P Chandrasekharan was murdered on May 4 in 2012 at Onchiyam.  Out of the total 76 accused, 22 were acquitted earlier. Out of the 36 who faced trial, 24 were acquitted on January 22. 

Pvt bus strike put off

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The private bus operators have postponed the indefinite strike scheduled from January 29.

The decision came following their discussions with Transport minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan on Monday. The minister is understood to have told the association leaders that more time was required to study the issue.

Gold hunt again at Karipur airport

KOZHIKODE: An instance of gold hunt again at Karipur international airport! Three-kg gold was recovered from one native of Kannur, Ashkhar, who arrived from Doha. The gold was concealed inside an iron box.

State second in cheating cases: Chennithala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is in the second position in cheating cases, said Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala. He informed the assembly that cheating of Rs 554 crores have been witnessed in the past two years.

More was witnessed in solar fraud cases. 4090 fraud cases have been registered in the state so far.

Excise Minister K Babu said anti-drug clubs will be started in all colleges and inauguration of one of the clubs will be held at the SN College in Kollam tomorrow. Stringent steps will be taken to prevent the use and sale of ganja, he said.

Central leadership backs resolution passed against VS

NEW DELHI: The CPM central leadership has come to support Kerala CPM unit’s   passing of resolution against Opposition leader V S Achthanandan for his public comments on T P Chandrasekharan murder case and NaMo Vichar Manch issue, overstepping the party’s prerogative.

The central leadership has clarified that there is nothing unusual in passing the resolution. The central leaders also said that what the Kerala unit of the party had done was quite right as the authority to take action came under its purview.      


CPM State committee had earlier said that Achuthanadan’s such statements were inappropriate. The resolution also concluded that “the party cannot accept the statements made by VS and he should not unilaterally resort to such practices again.”    

Kochi metro will be extended till Tripunithura

KOCHI: Kochi Metro Railway Ltd board of directors, which met on Monday has decided to extend the metro rail service till Tripunithura. For this the railways will have to incur an additional expense of Rs 323 crore, DMRC chairman Sudheer Krishna said at a press conference after the meeting.

As per the original plans, the metro was supposed to extend the rail line till Pettah. The director board’s new decision came after it took into consideration a report submitted by an agency called RIGHTS. “A decision has also been taken on availing of loan from a French company. For this, an agreement will be signed on February 8,” informed the directors.

HC stays order against withdrawing of Palm oil case

KOCHI: Thrissur Vigilance court’s order that Palm oil case can’t be withdrawn gets stay from the high court for two more months.
The stay order was pronounced after the government filed a petition in the high court, questioning the vigilance court’s order.

The Thrissur vigilance court had asked the government to continue with the case, stating that the withdrawal of the case would badly affect the societal justice and general aspiration.

Woman insulted in Facebook commits suicide

KOCHI:  A woman committed suicide after she was insulted via Facebook and SMS. The dead identified as Vijisha, native of Cheranalloor, committed suicide Sunday night.

Her relatives alleged that she was insulted by her relative identified as Ratheesh of Ambalappuzha. He posted some incredibly bad comments about her in the Facebook and also sent some bad messages to her friends.

She along with her husband lodged a complaint at the Cheranelloor police. When no steps were taken she approached the Kerala High Court and the latter sought a report from the police. They also tried to settle the issue.

Lulu mall: CPM rejects Ernakulam District Committee report

KOCHI: Ernakulam CPM District committee’s report, that industrialist M A Yusaffali built Lulu mall in Kochi on encroached land,  was rejected by the CPM State committee.

The State committee said Bolgatti convention centre was built as per norms and warned against any enmity towards industrialists including Yusaffali.   

CPM State Secretary Pinarayi Vijayan averred that Yusaffali had bought the land legally and criticised the District leadership of triggering unnecessary controversy over the deal. “Even the court has not pointed out any instances of land grabbing. Yusafali built the mall on the land he bought from the Corporation,” he aded  
    
Ernakulam District committee had raised allegations against two industrial establishments  -  Bolghatty Convention centre and Lulu mall in Edappally. The issue was raised by M M Lawrence and District secretary Dinesh Mani. The committee's  finding was that there was irregularity in Lulu group’s Bolghatty deal, which "resulted in a heavy financial loss to Port Trust"

Court to pronounce punishment in TP murder case tomorrow


KOZHIKODE: The Special Additional Sessions Court will pronounce the quantum of punishment in the sensational Revolutionary Marxist Party leader T P Chandrasekheran murder case here tomorrow.

Judge R Narayana Pisharody had convicted 12 persons, including seven key suspects and three leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) after finding them guilty in the May 4, 2012 case.

The court also set free 24 others, including party Kozhikode district secretariat member P Mohanan and Kuthuparamba area committee secretary K Dhananjayan for lack of evidence.

Rebel leader Chandrasekharan was hacked to death by Innova car borne assailants at Vallikkad near Vatakara in the district while he was returning home on his motor bike.

Bullet in Air India plane: Probe heads towards Delhi

NEDUMBASSERY: Amid tight security arrangements during the Republic Day on Sunday, a bullet was found inside an Air India plane that arrived here from Delhi in the evening.

The investigating officers have said that the probe will be extended to New Delhi. The workers who offloaded goods from planes spotted the bullet inside the storage cabin. The finding of the bullet on the Republic Day is seen as a breach of security as tight security was in place during the day.     

A team led by Nedumbassery CI Murali has started the investigation. Bureau of Civil Aviation Securities will also conduct a special inquiry. The incident has brought to light the vulnerability of security arrangements provided by different security agencies across the nation.

Food poisoning in school

KOTTARAKKARA: Almost 60 students of Jawahar Navodaya School have been admitted in the hospital after they complained of stomach pain and vomiting. The condition of none is stated to be serious.

The school authorities failed to admit the students in the hospital even after they developed uneasiness last evening itself. Almost 486 students from sixth to tenth standards are accommodated in the hostel. The students are allowed to go home only during vacation time.

The students were served idli and sambar for breakfast, biriyani in the afternoon and rice and curry at night. When the students complained of vomiting and stomach pain, the service of the nurse on duty was given. They were admitted in the hospital Tuesday morning when their condition turned worse.

CPM fearing CBI probe, says K K Rema

KOZHIKODE: The CPM is against CBI probe in the murder case of RMP leader T P Chandrasekharan, said his widow K K Rema. She said that she is not ready for any reconciliation from her demand for a CBI probe.

The widow said that she will go forward with hunger strike till a CBI probe is announced. 

MNS workers vandalize toll booths in Thane on Raj Thackeray's orders

THANE: At least half a dozen toll plazas were vandalized by suspected MNS activists here after party chief Raj Thackeray asked workers not to pay toll tariff and "crush" the toll gates.

A toll booth at Dahisar check-post was raided by a group of MNS activists on Sunday night and damaged, according to Thane rural police.

Elsewhere in Kalyan, several toll booths in Kalyan were raided by suspected MNS men led by local MLA Prakash Bhoir, police sources said, adding offences have been registered against miscreants under various sections of the IPC.

In rural Thane, there are 8 toll booths and in the commissionerate there are five, police said.

The attack came after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray on Sunday night asked workers and citizens not to pay even a single penny as toll tariff in the state even if it meant that they had to resort to violence to prevent it.

"If there is any instances just crush the toll nakas. If there is a traffic jam let it be, let the situation take its own course. Do not bother just don't pay toll in any of the toll booths," Raj said.

Additional force has been deployed at all these nakas, police said.

This is not the first time that the party has agitated against toll booths.

On January 16, an MNS legislator was among 20 people arrested for allegedly vandalizing a toll booth in Dombivili township of Thane district.

The MNS has been since sometime opposing the collection of toll in the state without providing any amenities and better services to the citizens.

Earlier, suspected Shiv Sena activists had vandalized four toll booths in Maharashtra's Kolhapur city on January 12.

Endosulfan victims’ debt to be written off

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The debt of endosulfan victims will be written off, said Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. Replying to the adjournment motion moved by the opposition, the chief minister said the government is willing to hold talks with the protestors.

Aid will be provided to endosulfan victims down with cancer. The government is considering of giving pension to 711 persons and help to more panchayats. Minister K P Mohanan has been entrusted to take decisions on the matter. Following the reply, the speaker denied permission for the motion.

Man dies in accident


NEYYATNKKARA: A 45-year-old man was killed after a bus rammed into his bike at the railway cross. He has been identified as Shasidharan Nair of Kunnathukal.

The incident happened Monday morning at Ezhuthukondamkani railway cross in Amaravila in the rush which happened soon after the railway gate was opened.

Endosulfan victims’ debt to be written off

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The debt of endosulfan victims will be written off, said Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. Replying to the adjournment motion moved by the opposition, the chief minister said the government is willing to hold talks with the protestors.

Aid will be provided to endosulfan victims down with cancer. The government is considering of giving pension to 711 persons and help to more panchayats. Minister K P Mohanan has been entrusted to take decisions on the matter. Following the reply, the speaker denied permission for the motion.

House boat gutted in Alappuzha, tragedy averted

KOTTAYAM:  A house boat carrying tourists has been gutted in a fire that broke out early Monday morning. The incident happened at a lake in the district. Big B, the boat was owned by Joemon, a native of Thathampalli.

A ten-member team from Andhra Pradesh was in the boat. A tragedy was averted after the boat employees shifted the tourists to the shore. One laptop and a mobile phone of the tourists have been gutted in the fire. A loss of Rs 80 lakhs has been reported.  The boat had five rooms. A short circuit from the AC is said to be the cause of the fire.

President’s medal for ADGPs Sandhya, Anil Kanth

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: ADGPs B Sandhya and Anil Kanth have been chosen for President’s medal on the eve of the Republic Day.   

Police medals for meritorious service will also be presented to Tampi S Durga, M K Srinivasan, G Hariprsad, A J Vargheese and K N Ramarajan.

Vice-chancellor appears before Governor

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: M G varsity vice-chancellor Dr A V George, who is facing allegation that he tampered with his bio-data to earn the job, on Saturday, appeared before the Governor to give his statements.  

The Governor, who is also the varsity chancellor, called him after the government sent the former a report stating that “George does not possess the required qualification to become a vice-chancellor”.

In the bi-data submitted for the VC’s post, George had mentioned that he had worked as department head in the Kasargode central university. But actually he had gone there on a two-months’ deputation from Iringalakkuda Christ college, where he was working. The government had also reported that George did not have the required work experience as department head.

54th Kerala School Youth Festival: Gold Cup for Kozhikode

PALAKKAD: In the 54th Kerala School Youth Festival, Kozhikode district emerged winners as the event came to an end on Saturday. The district school took 924 points to win the coveted gold cup. This is the eight consecutive victory for Kozhikode district schools.

The host Palakkad took the second place with 920 points and the Thrissur district came third with 918 points.   

Malappuram (898 points) and Kannur (868 points) came fourth and fifth respectively. The Thiruvananthapuram district scored 800 points only to reach the 11th place.

Biju Radhakrishnan’s letter expresses doubt over court order

KOLLAM: Reshmi murder case convict Biju Radhakrishnan has written a letter expressing doubts over the court verdict sentencing him to life in prison. The letter was handed over to his counsel at Kollam district jail on Saturday.

He had also mentioned in the letter that he was being made a martyr in order to bury the solar scam.

Tharoor should either resign or be sacked: CPM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM State Secretariat has demanded the resignation of Union Minister Shashi Tharoor to “facilitate a fair and impartial probe into the death of his wife Sunanda Pushkar under dubious circumstances.”

If he is not ready to put in his papers, he should be sacked, the party observed.

“Instead of registering a case against the minister and questioning him under police custody, the government has been trying to carryout a probe to help him. When Tharoor continues as minister, the probe conducted by Delhi police will turn out to be  farce, pointed out the party, which also criticised the Congress party for making Tharoor one of the  spokespersons of the party.  

Padma awards for Iyengar, Paes, Kamal Haasan, Ruskin Bond, Yuvraj

NEW DELHI: Former Council for Scientific and Industrial Research chief Dr R A Mashelkar and yoga guru BKS Iyengar would receive the country’s second highest civilian award Padma Vibushan this year.

Noted film actor Kamala Haasan, Tamil lyricist VR Thevar, tennis player Leander Paes, classical singer Parveen Sultana, justice Dalvir Bhandari and author Ruskin Bond were chosen for Padma Bhushan, the third highest civilian award. They are among the 25 people awarded this year's Padma Bushan.

Cricketer Yuvraj Singh was among the seven sportspersons selected for this year's Padma Shri award, the fourth highest civilian award. Cine stars Paresh Rawal and Vidya Balan, sand artists Sudarsan Pattnaik and theatre artist Bansi Kaul are among the 101 selected for this year's Padma Shri.

Squash player Dipika Pallikal, former Indian women's cricket captain Anjum Chopra, Sunil Dabas (Kabaddi), Love Raj Singh Dharmshaktu (Mountaineering), H Boniface Prabhu (Wheel Chair Tennis) and Mamta Sodha (Mountaineering) were the other sports persons selected for Padma Shri awards.

Padma Vibhushan is awarded to recognise exceptional and distinguished service to the nation in any field, including government service. Padma Bhushan is given for distinguished service of high order and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. These awards are conferred by the President at a ceremonial function at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Forty-year-old Leander Paes, who had earlier being conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards, is the most successful tennis player of the country with 14 Grand Slam title -- eight men's doubles and six mixed doubles.

Paes, hero of India's numerous Davis Cup wins, also won India's first Olympic medal in singles at the Atlanta Games in 1996, when he won a bronze.

Gopichand, one of the finest badminton players to have emerged from the country, is the second renowned sports personality to have been conferred with the Padma Bhushan honour this year.

He was conferred the Arjuna Award in 1999, Khel Ratna in 2001, Padma Shri in 2005 and Dronacharya in 2009 in a glittering career both as a player and a coach.

Padma Awardees List

Following is the list of the 127awardees of Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri which were announced on the eve of the 65th Republic day.

Padma Vibhushan
1.  Dr Raghunath A Mashelkar, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra
2.  B K S Iyengar, Yoga, Maharashtra

Padma Bhushan
 1.  Gulam Mohammed Sheikh, Art-Painting, Gujarat
 2.  Begum Parveen Sultana, Art-Classical Singing,Maharashtra
 3.  T H Vinayakram, Art-Ghatam Artist, Tamil Nadu
 4.  Kamala Haasan, Art-Cinema, Tamil Nadu
 5.  Justice Dalveer Bhandari, Public Affairs, Delhi
 6.  Prof Padmanabhan Balaram, Science and Engineering, Karnataka
 7.  Prof Jyeshtharaj Joshi, Science and Engineering,Maharashtra
 8.  Dr Madappa Mahadevappa, Science and Engineering,Karnataka
 9.  Dr Thirumalachari Ramasami, Science and Engineering, Delhi
10.  Dr Vinod Prakash Sharma, Science and Engineering, Delhi
11.  Dr Radhakrishnan Koppillil, Science and Engineering, Karnataka
12.  Dr Mrityunjay Athreya, Literature and Education, Delhi
13.  Anita Desai, Literature and Education, Delhi
14.  Dr Dhirubhai Thaker, Literature and Education, Gujarat
15.  Vairamuthu Ramasamy Thevar, Literature and Education, Tamil Nadu.
16.  Ruskin Bond, Literature and Education, Uttarakhand
17.  Pullela Gopichand, Sports-Badminton, Andhra Pradesh
18.  Leander Paes, Sports-Tennis, Maharashtra
19.  Vijayendra Nath Kaul, Civil Service, Delhi
20.  Late Justice Jagdish Sharan Verma, Public Affairs, Uttar Pradesh
21.  Late Dr Anumolu Ramakrishna, Science and Engineering, Andhra Pradesh
22.  Prof Anisuzzaman, Literature and Education, Bangladesh
23.  Prof Lloyd I Rudolph, Literature and Education, USA
24.  Prof Susanne H Rudolph, Literature and Education, USA
25.  Dr (Smt) Neelam Kler, Medicine- Neonatology, Delhi

Padma Shri
  1.  Mohammad Ali Baig, Art-Theatre, Andhra Pradesh
  2.  Nayana Apte Joshi, Art, Maharashtra
  3.  Musafir Ram Bhardwaj, Art-Instrumental Music- Pauna
  4.  Manjha, Himachal Pradesh
  5.  Sabitri Chatterjee, Art-Film, West Bengal
  6.  Prof Biman Bihari Das, Art-Sculptor, Delhi
  7.  Sunil Das, Art-Painting, West Bengal
  8.  Elam Endira Devi, Art-Manipuri Dance, Manipur
  9.  Vijay Ghate, Art-Instrumental Music- Tabla, Maharashtra
 10.  Rani Karnaa, Art-Kathak, West Bengal
 11.  Bansi Kaul, Art-Theatre, Jammu and Kashmir
 12.  Ustad Moinuddin Khan, Art-Instrumental Music-Sarangi Player, Rajasthan
 13.  Geeta Mahalik, Art-Odishi Dance, Delhi
 14.  Paresh Maity, Art-Painting, Delhi
 15.  Ram Mohan, Art-Film Animation, Maharashtra
 16.  Sudarsan Pattnaik, Art-Sand artist, Odisha
 17.  Paresh Rawal, Art-Cinema and Theatre, Maharashtra
 18.  Wendell Augustine Rodricks, Art-Fashion Designing, Goa
 19.  Prof Kalamandalam Sathyabhama, Art-Mohini Attam, Kerala
 20.  Shri Anuj (Ramanuj) Sharma, Art-Performing Art, Chhattisgarh
 21.  Santosh Sivan, Art- Film, Tamil Nadu
 22.  Supriya Dev, Art-Bengali Cinema, West Bengal
 23.  Sooni Taraporevala, Art- Script Writing, Maharashtra
 24.  Vidya Balan, Art-Cinema, Maharashtra
 25.  Durga Jain, Social Work, Maharashtra
 26.  Dr Rama Rao Anumolu, Social Work, Andhra Pradesh
 27.  Dr Brahm Dutt, Social Work, Haryana
 28.  Mukul Chandra Goswami, Social Work, Assam
 29.  J L Kaul, Social Work, Delhi
 30.  Mathurbhai Madhabhai Savani, Social Work, Gujarat
 31.  Tashi Tondup, Public Affairs, Jammu and Kashmir
 32.  Dr Hasmukh Chamanlal Shah, Public Affairs, Gujarat
 33.  Sekhar Basu, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra
 34.  Madhavan Chandradathan, Science and Engineering, Kerala.
 35.  Sushanta Kumar Dattagupta, Science and Engineering, WestBengal
 36.  Dr Ravi Bhushan Grover, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra
 37.  Prof Eluvathingal Devassy Jemmis, Science and Engineering, Karnataka
 38.  Ramkrishna V HosuR, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra
 39.  Dr Ajay Kumar Parida, Science and Engineering, Tamil Nadu
 40.  Dr Malapaka Yajneswara Satyanarayana Prasad, Science and Engineering, Andhra Pradesh
 41.  Kiran Kumar Alur Seelin, Science and Engineering, Gujarat
 42.  Dr Brahma Singh, Science and Engineering, Delhi
 43.  Prof Vinod Kumar Singh, Science and Engineering, Madhya Pradesh
 44.  Dr Govindan Sundararajan, Science and Engineering, Andhra Pradesh
 45.  Ramaswamy R Iyer, Science and Engineering, Delhi
 46.  Dr Jayanta Kumar Ghosh, Science and Engineering, West Bengal
 47.  Ravi Kumar NarrA, Trade and Industry, Andhra Pradesh
 48.  Rajesh Saraiya, Trade and Industry, Maharashtra
 49.  Mallika Srinivasan, Trade and Industry, Tamil Nadu
 50.  Pratap Govindrao Pawar, Trade and Industry, Maharashtra
 51.  Dr Kiritkumar Mansukhlal Acharya, Medicine- Dermatology, Gujarat
 52.  Dr Balram Bhargava, Medicine- Cardiology, Uttar Pradesh
 53.  Prof (Dr) Indra Chakravarty, Medicine- Health and Hygiene, West Bengal
 54.  Dr Ramakant Krishnaji Deshpande, Medicine- Oncology, Maharashtra
 55.  Prof (Dr) Pawan Raj Goyal, Medicine- Chest Disease, Haryana
 56.  Prof Amod Gupta, Medicine- Opthalmology, Haryana
 57.  Prof (Dr) Daya Kishore Hazra, Medicine, Uttar Pradesh
 58.  Prof (Dr) Thenumgal Poulose Jacob, Medicine- Vascular Surgery, Tamil Nadu
 59.  Prof (Dr) Shashank R Joshi, Medicine- Endocrinology, Maharashtra
 60.  Prof Hakim Syed Khaleefathullah, Medicine- Unani Medicine, Tamil Nadu
 61.  Dr Milind Vasant Kirtane, Medicine- ENT Surgery, Maharashtra
 62.  Dr Lalit Kumar, Medicine- Oncology, Delhi
 63.  Dr Mohan Mishra, Medicine, Bihar
 64.  Dr M Subhadra Nair, Medicine- Gyneacology, Kerala
 65.  Dr Ashok Panagariya, Medicine- Neurology, Rajasthan
 66.  Dr Narendra Kumar Pandey, Medicine- Surgery, Haryana
 67.  Dr Sunil Pradhan, Medicine- Neurology, Uttar Pradesh
 68.  Dr Ashok Rajgopal, Medicine- Orthopaedics, Delhi
 69.  Dr Kamini A Rao, Medicine- Reproductive Medicine, Karnataka
 70.  Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah, Medicine- Surgery, Andhra Pradesh
 71.  Prof Om Prakash Upadhyaya, Medicine, Punjab
 72.  Prof (Dr) Mahesh Verma, Medicine- Dental Science, Delhi
 73.  Dr J S Titiyal, Medicine-Opthalmology, Delhi
 74.  Dr Nitish Naik, Medicine- Cardiology, Delhi
 75.  Dr Surbrat Kumar Acharya, Medicine-Gastroentrology, Delhi
 76.  Dr Rajesh Kumar Grover, Medicine-Oncology, Delhi
 77.  Dr Naheed Abidi, Literature and Education, Uttar Pradesh
 78.  Prof Ashok Chakradhar, Literature and Education, Delhi
 79.  Chhakchhuak Chhuanvawra, Literature and Education, Mizoram
 80.  Keki N Daruwalla, Literature and Education, Delhi
 81.  Prof Ganesh Narayandas Devi, Literature and Education, Gujarat
 82.  Prof Kolakaluri Enoch, Literature and Education, Andhra Pradesh
 83.  Prof (Dr) Ved Kumari Ghai, Literature and Education, Jammu and Kashmir
 84.  Smt Manorama Jafa, Literature and Education, Delhi
 85.  Prof Rehana Khatoon, Literature and Education, Delhi
 86.  Dr Waikhom Gojen Meeitei, Literature and Education, Manipur
 87.  Vishnu Narayanan Namboothiri, Literature and Education, Kerala
 88.  Prof Dinesh Singh, Literature and Education, Delhi
 89.  Dr (Mrs) P Kilemsungla, Literature and Education, Nagaland
 90.  Anjum Chopra, Sports- Cricket, Delhi
 91.  Sunil Dabas, Sports- Kabbadi, Haryana
 92.  Love Raj Singh Dharmshaktu, Sports- Mountaineering, Delhi
 93.  Dipika Rebecca Pallikal, Sports- Squash, Tamil Nadu
 94.  H Boniface Prabhu, Sports- Wheelchair Tennis, Karnataka
 95.  Yuvraj Singh, Sports- Cricket, Haryana
 96.  Mamta Sodha Sports- Mountaineering, Haryana
 97.  Parveen Talha, Civil Service, Uttar Pradesh
 98.  Late Dr Narendra Achyut Dabholkar, Social Work Maharashtra
 99.  Ashok Kumar Mago, Trade and Industry, USA
100.  Siddharth Mukherjee, Medicine-Oncology, USA
101.  Dr Vamsi Mootha, Medicine- Biomedical Research, USA
102.  Dr Sengaku Mayeda, Literature and Education, Japan. 

Fractured govt after polls will be catastrophic: President

NEW DELHI: Favouring a stable government after the coming elections, President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday warned that a fractured government will be hostage to "whimsical opportunists" and be "catastrophic" to India.

Asking the voters not to "let India down", he said 2014 must become a year of healing after the fractured and contentious politics of the last few years and whosoever wins must have have an undiluted commitment to stability, honesty and development.

Addressing the nation on the eve of 65th Republic Day, the President said he was not a cynic because he knew that democracy has a marvellous ability to self-correct.

"It is the physician that heals itself and 2014 must become a year of healing after the fractured and contentious politics of the last few years," he said.

Mukherjee said the year 2014 was a "precipice moment" in India's history and it should re-discover that sense of national purpose and patriotism which lifts it above and across the abyss and back on the road to prosperity.

"1950 saw the birth of our Republic. I am sure that 2014 will be the year of resurgence."He said the youth should be given jobs and they would raise villages and cities to 21st century standards.

"Give them a chance and you will marvel at the India they create. This chance will not come if India does not get a stable government.

"A fractured government, hostage to whimsical opportunists, is always an unhappy eventuality. In 2014, it could be catastrophic. Each one of us is a voter; each one of us has a deep responsibility; we cannot let India down. It is time for introspection and action," he warned.

Constitution does not stop CM from protesting: Kejriwal

NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who faced flak for his protest in the heart of the capital, today said the Constitution does not prevent the Chief Minister from holding a dharna.

"I read the Constitution, couldn't find anywhere that a Chief Minister cannot hold 'dharna'," he said on criticism to his two-day dharna outside Rail Bhavan.

He also charged that "the media is getting paid to do negative stories on AAP."

Kejriwal's role in leading a protest while holding constitutional office has come under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court which yesterday slammed law enforcing agencies for allowing unlawful assembly of supporters of the Chief Minister in the heart of national capital.

In his Republic Day address at Chhatrasal Stadium here, the Delhi Chief Minister said the Jan Lok Pal Bill is almost ready and will be passed at a special session in Ramlila Maidan in February.

Holding that security of women in the national capital is "highly compromised", he said the government has formed a committee under the Chief Secretary for the formation of 'Mahila Suraksha Dal' in the city.

"Women security in the national capital is highly compromised. It is our utmost duty and priority to provide security to women. We have formed a committee under the Chief Secretary for formation of Mahila Suraksha Dal," he said.

He said that it may not have powers like the police but the force will work like security guards stationed outside buildings and housing societies.

"They will provide security to women. We will have retired army personnel, police and home guards as members of suraksha dal," he said.

Kejriwal also said the committee under the chief secretary will make provisions to ensure that rapists are sent to jail within 3 to 6 months.