Intelligence failed to prevent terror attacks: Paswan

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Saturday, November 29, 2008



In the wake of the terror attack in Mumbai, the Union Minister of Steel and president of Lok Janshakti Party, Ramvilas Paswan admitted to the failure of the intelligence agencies in preventing terror attacks.

Addressing a rally on the 8th foundation day of LJP at Morhabadi ground in the State capital on Friday, Paswan advocated for the need to strengthen the federal structure and federal policing.

He said such terror strikes could be stopped only after the State Governments and the Central Government resolve to fight the menace together.

"After 9/11, no terror strike could take place in America, as the country restructured its federal policy and formulated a joint mechanism to weed out the tentacles of terrorism from its soil," he added.

Defending the Central Government in the wake of the terror attack, Paswan said: "Often the State Governments play safe by putting the onus of terror strike on the Central Government… but the State Governments cry foul when the Central Government tries to reason out with these Governments on security issues."

The Minister also paid homage to Malayesh Banerjee and Prakash Mandal of Jharkhand who lost their lives at the hand of terrorists in Mumbai and condemned the terror attack. But he appealed to the people and political parties not to adopt dual policy over terrorism.

Making a direct attack on BJP for branding terrorism, Paswan said: "BJP raises a hue and cry about terrorism only when the terrorists are non-Hindus. It is now shielding accused persons of Malegaon blast, who happen to be mostly Hindus."

"I cannot say that they are BJP men but Malegaon blast has a link with the party and its 'transmitter RSS'," he added.

Paswan, who was in the State to expand the political bandwidth of the party in Jharkhand, reiterated that only LJP was able to deliver good governance.

Hoping that the Assembly elections in five States would enable the party to gain reorganisation as a national party from the Election Commission, Paswan remarked: "LJP has taken major political stride and gained recognition and support of the people in different parts of the country… and we will rule the politics after 20 years."

Soren still in a fix; Tundi appears viable option

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Friday, November 28, 2008

Till now JMM chief Shibu Soren has kept his UPA counterparts and Opposition NDA guessing about his probable constituency from where he would like to enter in the State Assembly. Guruji is thinking of some other constituency to contest from. However, it is neither Tamar where the by-election would be held on December 29, nor Jamtara where the suspended BJP MLA Vishnu Bhaiya offered to vacate his seat for the smooth passage of Soren into the Assembly.

Well-placed sources in the JMM said that Soren might choose Tundi constituency currently represented by JMM legislator Mathura Prasad Mahto. The era of speculation prevailing from the last three months about the probable constituency of Soren would end within a couple of days. On last Wednesday, Soren while interacting with the media had said: “I will speak to the media after a few days.” Not stating clearly, he hinted that Tamar might not be in his list from where he could contest.

Going by his own statements, Soren is left with Jamtara to seek election. But “Jamtara or no Jamtara”, Soren cannot decide it alone as the State Congress would not like to give away its traditional seat. The sources in the Congress said that the party might not support if Soren wishes to contest from Jamtara. “He is a tribal leader and he should contest from Tamar rather from Jamtara,” said a senior Congress leader.

But amid this confusion, the State BJP is left with a daunting task ahead: Who will take on the JMM stalwart Shibu Soren if he wishes to contest election from Jamtara. The party is left with no stalwart within its fold who could at least throw a decent contest to Soren.

Monitoring the move of the JMM and its own suspended party MLA, the BJP has not yet decided the name. But well-placed party sources said that the party was likely to field Tarun Gupta, president BJP Jamtara. Meanwhile, the suspended BJP MLA hinted that he was likely to resign from his seat any time in favour of Soren. The BJP will be left with the task to save its seat which it had won by a margin of 3,991 votes.

Wished not to be quoted, a senior party leader accepted that the party had no such popular figure to throw challenge to Soren. Hence the party fielding a candidate against Soren would be nothing but a mere ceremony. Refusing the contention, the party lacked leaders of the stature of Soren, the president of the State BJP, Pashupati Nath Singh, said: “Personality might be a matter but it cannot overshadow the ideology and party principles. The BJP has no such problems of candidates, let Soren decide his constituency first.”

Morality no ground to resign: Soren

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Thursday, November 27, 2008

Emerging out of the meeting of the State working committee of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), JMM chief Shibu Soren on Wednesday declined to seek resignation of two ministers of the State Cabinet — Ainosh Ekka and Harinarayan Rai — against whom two days back a special vigilance court directed to file cases in connection with disproportionate properties.

When asked whether or not he (Soren) would seek resignation of the ministers on morality ground and also to ensure an impartial inquiry into their disproportionate properties, Soren shielded his ministers by saying he would not take any decision unless he goes through the documents.

"Morality cannot be a ground for tendering or asking resignation…morality has no place in the politics. I will not recommend any CBI inquiry against them," Soren thus clarified his stand while answering to some of the pointed question. But he refused to react about other ministers who were facing similar charges in the court by calling it sub-judice.

Opening a front against the Left Front Government in West Bengal for committing atrocities against tribals and the original inhabitants, the working committee decided to hold a protest rally at Shahid Minar in Kolkata on January 20. It also decided to submit a memorandum against the West Bengal Government.

He reacted over the remarks of his West Bengal counterpart Budhadeo Bhattacharya, who alleged the tribals affiliated with the JMM in the West Bengal had association with the Maoist groups and they wanted to create terror in the State.

Shibu said: "As the Chief Minister of Jharkhand, I dismiss this allegation as baseless, even an autocratic setup cannot speak and behave in the manner chosen by him against the people." He said the JMM was always against using such methods. Referring to the political resolution passed in this respect, he termed the West Bengal Government synonymous to gundaraj (the rule of goons) and asserted that the party would expand its base in the West Bengal. It would begin with the meeting of the working committee meeting of the JMM on December 20 at Purulia.

Coming out with a decision to expand its political bandwidth in the south India, the JMM decided to fight election in Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Kerla, and Tamil Nadu. It is also mulling for the same in Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The party would hold campaign to highlight the developmental works done by the party from the next Monday. Besides it, the party would constitute the booth committees in view of the next general elections.

LS seat-sharing: BJP not ready to keep JD(U) in good humour

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Let the Janata Dal United go it alone in Jharkhand and fight the forthcoming general elections, the State BJP would not like to share (so many) seats with its junior ally which has demanded six parliamentary seats from the BJP, well-placed sources in the State BJP said.
After State UPA allies which entered into a virtual slang match with each other to stake claims over seats a month back, now it is the turn of the NDA allies to pick the trail, although the tussle is by-polar.

The JD(U) has claimed stake over Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Giridiha, Chatra, Palamu and Godda. The BJP is not amused as its junior partner is claiming Hazaribagh constituency where the BJP wants to field its national vice president Yaswant Sinha.

Appearing determined to repeat what JD(U) did during the last Lok Sabha elections when it fielded its candidate in five parliamentary constituencies after the BJP refused to spare any seat for its junior ally, the president of State JD(U) said: "We respect BJP as our big brother and senior partner…but they should not dictate the terms as such."

Stating further Mahto added that JD(U) might not hesitate to field its candidates if nothing definite comes from the side of BJP. While both the parties tried to place the onus of seat sharing on the high command of party but the leaders of both the parties continue to harp disharmonious tones.

Although the sources in JD(U) confided that the party was adopting a pressure tactic to get at least two seats but Mahto who rejected it outright said: "The party wants not less than six seats as per the decision taken by the working committee and it would be least concerned about the probable damage that the NDA might face in the forthcoming LS election if JD (U) indeed decides to take on the BJP in a friendly contest for the above six parliamentary constituencies." In the last general elections when the JD(U) contested five seats on its own besides the BJP contesting all the seats- the NDA could not open its account in Jharkhand.

Reacting over the demands of the JD(U), the president of state BJP Pashupati Nath Singh said the decision and any comment in this regard could be taken only by the national president of the party and its prime ministerial candidate LK Advani. The State BJP had no role in it, he added. But with in the BJP the sources said that the party was firm in its decision not to leave any seat for the JD(U). BJP has already submitted the recommendation list of the party candidates for all 14 parliamentary seats.

Referring to 'Raisumari', undertaken by the Organizational Secretary of Central BJP Ramlal in the month of June to obtain the view of party workers about candidates was as an indication that the Central BJP would hardly party workers regarding candidates that the central high command of the party would hardly keep JD (U) in good humour.

Even Congress wants Governor to go

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi February 7, 2009


In the weeks gone—after the imposition of the President’s rule it has become apparent that Governor Syed Sibte Razi and the leaders of the state Congress, haven’t been on the same page over several issue.

In a recently sent memorandum submitted to the AICC General Secretary Rahul Gandhi, the State Congress leveled specific number of charges against Razi and demanded his immediate removal.

The news will please the NDA, even though the opposing alliances have been on the war of words. But, both share similar demand—the governor must go—the BJP wants to execute it through agitation while the Congress through memorandum.

The leaders of the state Congress have been strictly directed not make any official or unofficial visit to governor or to participate in any of the programmes of the governor without the prior permission of the party.

“Failing which the party would take disciplinary actions”, a senior party leader quoted this portion of this vocal directive of the party.

Last week, the state Congress served notice on two of its media in-charge—Alok Kumar Dubey and Pradeep Tulsayan for their meeting with the Governor.

Knowing well that their complaints are seldom taken seriously by the top rung of the central leaders of the party and their clamours turn into whisper the Congressmen from the state have decided to raise the matter with the party President and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on coming Tuesday.
Sonia Gandhi and the AICC General Secretary, Rahul Gandhi would meet the chiefs of District and Block Congress Committees of Jharkhand in New Delhi on February 9.

In this one page memorandum signed by the office in-charge of the State Congress Madan Mohan Sharma, the party termed the governor as pro-BJP and his further continuation in the office would damage the poll prospect of the Congress.

Confirming this, well-placed sources in the party said that in the memorandum Razi has been accused off being more caring to the BJP in the appointments of the key posts and ignoring even the genuine points/ demands of the Congress MPs and MLAs.
The memorandum has been substantiated with the recent transfer and posting for the key post, executed by Razi after the imposition of the President’s rule in Jharkhand.
The appointment of the senior police cop Amitabh Chaudhary as the special secretary (Home) worsened the current stand off. Questioning the wisdom behind appointing a (pro-BJP) bureaucrat the party wanted to know how come the Congress will fight the general election and hope to retain its respective tally in Jharkhand in an administrative set-up guided and controlled by a known BJP man.

The decision surprised most of the Congress leaders as the state BJP is seriously considering fielding Chaudhary as BJP candidate from Jamshedpur in the forth coming general election.
In the memorandum Razi has been accused off putting on saffron glasses while appointing the vice chancellors of the university. Speaking on this a senior party leader blamed: “Most of these newly appointed vice chancellors are associated with the NDA…It is the saffronisation of the educational institutes”.

Congress leaders are peeved at the recent administrative reshuffle. The party is in hurry to place its own chosen set of bureaucrats for the key post before the election but Razi hardly entertained them.

Commented a senior party leader and MLA: “However Razi is a known Congress cadre but he is allergic to the Congress…hostile is a fit word.”

However, the Congress comes with official denial but still facts remain that some six months back the same Congress leaders had sent memorandum against Razi to the senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot.

This memorandum is the redo copy of the last one—yet allegations are still fresh and serious.

Namdhari whose darling

BJP, JD(U) try to rope in Namdhari for LS poll

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Monday, November 24, 2008

Two of the NDA allies in Jharkhand — the BJP and the JDU — are trying to rope in the independent MLA from Daltongang, Inder Singh Namdhari, in their party fold, and both parties want to field him from Chatra parliamentary constituency for the forthcoming Lok Sabha election.

Well-placed sources in the BJP revealed that the name of Namdhari has already figured as party candidate from Chatra in the list of the party candidates that the Jharkhand BJP sent to its Central high command for final approval.

The speculation of JD(U) too willing to net in Namdhari in its fold gained ground after the meting of the working committee of State JD(U) where party demanded six parliamentary seats from BJP to contest next LS poll which included Chatra also. Commenting over it, a senior party leader said that JD(U) was willing to field Namdhari from Chatra provided the erstwhile party leader makes his comeback in the party.

Interestingly for both the parties, Namdhari is a sure sort candidate who could manage electoral victory of party. However, Namdhari, who was recently selected as the best MLA on the 8th foundation year of Jharkhand Assembly did not disclose the future course of his action. Talking to The Pioneer correspondent, Namdhari said: "I will disclose this thing after two months whether I will be a BJP candidate or will go with JD(U)."

Will Namdhari move to JD(U), the party that he left in the past? The sources close to him said that Namdhari had some parley over this issue with the central leadership of the JD(U).Sources confided that he was not willing to move in JD(U) fold even though the central leadership of JD(U) wants him to take rein of the party during the next LS elections.

BJP would be a safe option for Namdhari than JD(U) at a time when BJP is not willing to share seat with JD(U) for the next general elections.Trying to put a lid over the speculation of Namdhari's re-entry in the party and he becoming a party candidate from Chatra, JD(U) State president Jaleswar Mahto said: "This is not in my knowledge whether party is trying for his comeback or not… to the best of my knowledge, we have not discussed his candidature and any proposal as such." He further said that party had a lot of good candidates from Chatra.

Music, dance echo Assembly Day

Vijay Deo Jha RanchiSaturday, November 22, 2008

Music and dance had a perfect date with audience on the sprawling campus of Jharkhand State Assembly on the eve of the 8th foundation year of the House. It was also a rare occasion; leaders of the State, general public spent their time with artistes while enjoying soft and soothing melodies out of the hustle bustle of the politics.

The programme which continued till late in the night, the tribal culture of Jharkhand was its best display. The artist and dancing groups who flocked here presented the tribal dance such as Mardraj Thumar. This dance which is mainly performed by male narrated the martial tradition of the Jharkhand tribals and their struggle for imperial subjugation.

Swaying and gyrating on the leitmotif of flutes and high drum-beats the troupe gave a vivid picture of the tribal life.

It was time of another tribal dance, Chhau where the performer with swift acrobatic movement of their body got the laurel. Narrating the mythical war between Goddess Durga and demon, the artistes gave the audience a chance to feel the tribal ethnicity from a close quarter.

The State Government had specially invited the noted exponent of Indian music such as Jaiprakash Churasia, the finalist of TV show 'SAREGAMA' Poonam Yadav, Amit Sana of Indian Idol, noted gazal singer Chand Raja and Puja Chhtarjee to give a live performance the commemorate the occasion.

The pandal was jam-packed with audience who could be seen firmly placed in their seats, were waiting for a night of gazal. Gazals make its impact in its late night performance. The cherished moment came with a soft note of Chand Raja Ham tere sahar me aaye hai musafir ki tarah, sirf ikbaar mulakat ka mauka de do with which the night of gazal started.

Governor Syed Sibte Razi, Chief Minister Shibu Soren along with ministers and officials of the State Government were present during the programme.

Jharkhand JD(U) to ask 6 LS seats from BJP

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Friday, November 21, 2008

Janta Dal United would lay claim over at least six parliamentary constituencies in Jharkhand for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

It is likely to be discussed in the meeting of its working committee scheduled to be held on Friday in Ranchi. It is despite the fact NDA faced fiasco in Jharkhand in the last general elections, when both the parties fought elections separately JD(U) is learnt to have made up its mind to contest elections. It would be decided by the central leadership of NDA after assembly elections in five states.

Even though the State BJP has made its intention known to contest all the parliamentary seats leaving no constituency for JDU, it would claim for that, the sources in the party said. The party is likely to claim over Dhanbad, Giridiha, Chatra, Palamu, Khunti and Godda where it wants to field its candidates during the forthcoming general elections.

One should remember the seat sharing exercise between BJP and JDU during the last general elections when BJP declined to leave seats for JDU. It led to a friendly contest between BJP and JDU in six five parliamentary constituencies including Giridiha, Chatra, Palamu, Godda and Khunti. Well-placed sources in the party said: "JDU would at least stake claim over Dhanbad and Chatra even knowing in advance that big brother, BJP would hardly entertain the claim."

Mahto might six out of 13 constituencies in Jharkhand there are the voices within the party which find fault stating that with five MLAs in the State Assembly including Ramesh singh Munda who died this year the claim holds little water.

Mahto is more interested in Dhanbad as he has been nourishing a political ambition to enter into the corridor of Parliament as an MP besides Chatra the party hopes to field the erstwhile party MLA and stalwart Indersingh Namdhari. Namdhari is also in the wish list of BJP- the party also mulling to adopt him party fold.

As far as the claim of the party for Giridiha constituency is concerned it has still to find a suitable candidate to take on Teklal Mahto of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. The working meet is slated to discuss the strategy of the party during the elections and might take some major decisions to strengthen the party.

This Lakra siblings

Chak De spirit chugs off Lakra siblings of Jharkhand

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Monday, November 17, 2008

The Lakra siblings of Jharkhand have a unique distinction in the field of hockey. The fact might surprise many as surname has until now produced four international hockey players - Bimal Lakra, Birendra Lakra, Asanti Lakra and the eldest Binay Lakra, who have played for India at various levels.

It was a sheer coincidence that the Sports Authority of India (SAI) spotted this pool of talent during a Khassi (goat) tribal hockey tournament at Simdega, where they were playing the tournament with bamboo sticks. But, skilful dribbling, smart manoeuvring, dodging and killing spirit instantly won the attention for them.

They got persistent training in SAI and developed their skill which made them competent enough to represent the country. Bimal and Birendra have been playing for India's senior team, Asanti is a member of the women's team while Binay has participated in Asian school tournament from the country.

Birendra was the centre-half of the team, which however ended up as runner up in the Sultan Azlan Shah Tournament in Malaysia. This lanky star, however, rued the fact that despite winning laurels for the country, hockey associations have remained negligent. "We are playing for the country but we remain incognito…we still trying to get attention," Birendra said.

"No, Government cannot be blamed for this but, the associations' officials as when I returned from Malaysia no one was there to receive me at the airport," said this 23-year-old star who studies in Gossner College.

Birendra is one of the tribal talents who initially thought that playing hockey would earn him a job. And his perseverance has not only found him an India cap but an employment in the Indian Airlines as well. His brother Bimal Lakra won the country Asia Cup.

But Birendra is also not happy with the way team is selected. "Look at other teams like South Korea and Argentina which have been consistent with the same team for years. In fact, being part of the team for longer period allows a player to understand the strategy and one gets acclimatised with other team players as well which is necessary for a good team composition," he opined. Birendra will be leaving for Bengaluru on June 10 to join the camp ahead of a series with Russia.

His sister Asanti reckons their achievement would inspire budding talents of the state. But, the fact of the matter is that, in gifted Lakras, still many year of Hockey is left there and they need to be propped up for more international exposures. Is any body there to listen to them in post-Gill fiasco?

Congress in a fix on how to encash NREGA

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Thursday, November 20, 2008

The grand old party, Congress, which in view of the forthcoming general elections moved into electoral exercise in all over India and Jharkhand too, feels that out of many programmes at least two programmes initiated by the party- National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and Panchyati Raj institution, would pay a good electoral dividends.

But situation is somewhat different in Jharkhand where the party feels it would be difficult to project NREGA as an achievement of the party, courtesy to rampant corruption in NREGA during the regime of erstwhile Madhu Koda as Chief Minister.

Even the senior leaders of the party accepted this fact in their private discourse that party failed to make a dent on the political dispensation of the State to check corruption in NREGA project. It even failed to deter the Government even though the State Congress had launched a series of stir against the State Government where in-charge State Congress Ajay Maken threatened to pull down the Government on this issue.

The party MLA Niel Tirkey said on this, "We are in a vulnerable situation as the performance of NREGA is quite dismal. Even today the party is not happy with the present UPA Government in Jharkhand which has not taken corrective measures to stop corruption in NREGA." The party has nothing to showcase about NREGA, he added.

The issue was repeatedly discussed at the party forum where it felt that it was difficult for the party to distance itself from the omission and commission of the past Government on NREGA since the Government was running due to the support of the party.

Now the party has adopted a different strategy to come out of this as party has decided to start a number of programmes to galvanize the public opinion in favour of NREGA. It would organise workers' rally in Palamu division on December 6-7.

The party has announced a set of programme - 'Rajiv Gandhi Panchyatiraj Sangathan' which is scheduled to be held on November 29. The sources said that the programme would focus upon the importance of NREGA.

Congress spokesperson Alok Kumar Dubey said, "We would try to make the people aware of the benefit of such programmes which unfortunately failed in Jharkhand."

The sources said that the party would not hesitate to raise hackle against the JMM if it fails to address the concern and interest of party on NREGA. In today's days development, the party appointed in-charge for 81 Assembly seats for the formation and coordination of women booth committees.

Raghuwar's combat

Das’ anti-MNS protest strokes discipline issue

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Saturday, November 15, 2008

BJP, the party with a difference, showed its difference again bringing once again the internal bickering of the party to fore in Jharkhand.

The protest march led by the firebrand BJP leader and Jamshedpur East MLA, Raguwar Das, on Wednesday before CM House over alleged silence of the State Government for not granting compensation to the family of deceased-- who lost their lives during MNS sponsored backlash in Maharashtra has sparked off a controversy.

A section of leaders backed by the bete-noire of Das blamed him for not informing the party and its president Pashupati Nath Singh before taking on such programmes and staged a demonstration at party office besides submitting a memorandum against Das demanding disciplinary actions against the MLA.

Adding fuel to the fire, PN Singh while interacting with the media on that day declined that Das ever informed the party about his decision to hold such a programme.

Now Das has come forward to counter the claim of Singh. While terming it flippant, Das said: "I had made my intention clear on October 31 at a Press conference and informed the party president accordingly." He even claimed that Leader of Opposition Arjun Munda was also informed about this.

Speaking further Das claimed to have informed the party president during Diwali meet of the party workers in Dhanbad which was "attended by former MP Rita Verma, Ashoka Mandal and thousands of party workers besides Singh, who also took part in it."

"I tried to contact the State BJP president on his mobile and ultimately requested his personal secretary to inform Singh about my programme hence he can not feign ignorance about this," Das buttressed his stand. Daring his opponent to seek his head, Das further said: "If raising issues of public importance is the violation of party discipline...than I am ready to face the axe, let others go to public and justify this."

However, now Singh has adopted a different posture on this and refused to comment calling it "an internal matter of the party and it unbecoming for a party president to breach discipline."

Requesting the media not to make a mountain out of mole and refrain from pursuing this matter further, Singh said: "I do not know what media wants? This is an internal matter of the party and I would not disclose whether the party was informed about the programme or not...I am not obliged to inform the Press about this."

Speaker reserves verdict on suspended MLA’s disqualification

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Thursday, November 13, 2008

On Wednesday, the Speaker of Assembly, Alamgir Alam, reserved the order on the disqualification of suspended BJP MLA Pradeep Yadav, after hearing arguments of petitioner and defendent.

Seeking disqualification of Yadav from the membership of the Assembly, the leader of Opposition in the Assembly Arjun Munda had a filed petition to the Speaker contending that the MLA violated 10th Schedule of the Constitution.

Presenting the case through his counsels; Munda alleged that Yadav joined the delegation of Jharkhand Vikash Morcha led by Babulal Marandi and met with the Governor during the political crisis in Jharkhand- a ground sufficient for his disqualification.

Adding further Munda said that in past Yadav shared dais with Marandi and campaigned against BJP candidates during a couple of by-elections in Jharkhand.In its original petition Munda had also cited instances when the suspended party MLA campaigned against BJP candidate during some of the by-elections in Jharkhand.

Dismissing the contention raised by the petitioner, the counsel of Yadav said that Yadav in no way flouted the party line by joining JVM delegation and demanding President's rule in the State. The reason he stated that since BJP delegation also raised same demand. About the association of Yadav the counsels explained: “My client never said that he is no more a member of BJP, ‘technically’, he is still a member and there is no proof to suggest that he has joined JVM.”

Contending further the defense lawyer said that the newspaper reports could not form the basis to pronounce judgment. The Speaker asked both the parties to submit the supporting materials if they have any.Later on talking to the media Yadav said, “Munda is trying to save JMM Government by seeking disqualifications of the MLAs who opposed the installation of Shibu Soren as Chief Minister… he wants JMM to complete its full term and he choose the best occasion and method to weaken the opposition by seeking our disqualification.”

Although Yadav accepted his association with Marandi and said, “I had been with Marandi and would remain with him…I repeat this again. I will fight the next election together with JVM.” Munda who declined to comment over the proceeding terming the matter as sub-judice however said: “We have urged the Speaker to take decision based on his conscience and available facts which are self explanatory. The Speaker should take the decision under the light of 10th Schedule of the Constitution and the letter and spirit of the Anti Defection Law must be honoured.” On the sideline of the hearing media men asked the Speaker whether he would entertain the reports of the newspaper submitted by BJP as evidence against Yadav.

Alam said that he would minutely study such news items before writing a final judgment. In the context of the decision taken by the Speaker of Hariyan State Assembly where in a suo-moto decision the Speaker disqualified an MLA for joining a delegation of other party- the media men asked Alam whether he found any similarity in both the cases.

UPA leaders fear ESMA threat may boomerang

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Even UPA allies in Jharkhand are not happy with the way State Human Resources Minister Bandhu Tirkey threatened to impose the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against agitating para-teachers.

They fear that if the impasse continues it would damage the poll prospect of the UPA in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

On Monday, UPA leaders asked Chief Minister Shibu Soren to intervene in the matter and demanded that the minister must be restrained from issuing provocative statements. The conversation took place during griha pravesh ceremony of Soren.

A day back, the minister warned agitating para-teachers to either resume their work by November 15 or be ready to face music which might result into the termination of their service.

The prominent leaders of the UPA including the Union Minister of State of Food and Processing Industries, Subodh Kant Sahay, RJD MLA Girinath Singh and some others asked Soren to resolve the deadlock before it could trigger off a major casualty for UPA in the forth coming general elections. Soren is learnt to have assured UPA leaders to take up this matter.

Well-placed sources said that these leaders asked Soren to accept the genuine demands of the para-teachers on the basis of the recommendations made by the Girinath Singh Committee, which recommended a hike of Rs 3,800, Rs 4,500 and Rs 5,100 respectively for the para-teachers.

The sources also confided that Sahay not only criticised the Minister for adopting tough posture against the teacher but also called it unbecoming. A senior Congress leader and MLA said on the condition of anonymity that UPA allies were worried over the deadlock and the minister was yet to realize that the opposition would loose no time to make it poll plank to baulk UPA during elections.

Their fear is not unfounded as teachers who have the maximum deployment during poll can turn the apple cart of UPA. Jharkhand Congress is more aware of this fact as one of its prominent leaders lost election in the past for locking horns with the teachers of the State.

Meanwhile at a Press conference on Tuesday, the Para-Teachers Association demanded the minister to withdraw his statement about imposing ESMA. Terming Tirkey unfit to hold such a ministry of crucial importance, Kalim Javed, secretary of the organisation affirmed to continue the fight in democratic way.

He also appealed Soren to intervene in the matter and regularize the service of para-teachers and accept the recommendations as per the report of Girinath Singh Committee.

‘MNS violence under control in Maharashtra’

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi RANCHI Monday, November 10, 2008

The State and Central Governments have taken all measures to control MNS-sponsored violence in Maharashtra," said AICC secretary and State Congress in-charge Abdul Mannan. Mannan faced some prickly moments while clarifying party’s stand on MNS issue and the strings of terror attack in the country. But he parried several curt questions on how MNS chief was allowed to hold a Press conference when he was under custody. Mannan blamed Shiv Sena and RSS for atrocities against north Indians and credited the Centre for taking stern action against MNS activities. But he was left with no answer when he was reminded of the media report that said the Maharashtra Chief Minister refused to take action against MNS chief Raj Thackeray even after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh categorically wanted it. While referring to alleged involvement of Pragya Singh Thakur in Malegaon blast, Mannan cautioned that Hindu right wings were spreading its tentacles spelling bad omen for the country. While searching for a suitable answer about what stops the Centre from hanging Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, he said, "His petition for clemency is lying with the President and the Centre has no role in it." Home Minister Shivraj Patil also reminded him of the inept handling of the security issue that he preferred not to answer. Media also wanted to know party’s stand on the current spate of transfer and posting in the State and reminded him of MP Sushila Kerketta’s demand who wanted specific officers to be posted in her area. Both the leaders however termed it the personal choice of the leader but offered no reaction over transfer and posting issue.

‘MNS violence under control in Maharashtra’

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi RANCHI Monday, November 10, 2008

The State and Central Governments have taken all measures to control MNS-sponsored violence in Maharashtra," said AICC secretary and State Congress in-charge Abdul Mannan. Mannan faced some prickly moments while clarifying party’s stand on MNS issue and the strings of terror attack in the country. But he parried several curt questions on how MNS chief was allowed to hold a Press conference when he was under custody. Mannan blamed Shiv Sena and RSS for atrocities against north Indians and credited the Centre for taking stern action against MNS activities. But he was left with no answer when he was reminded of the media report that said the Maharashtra Chief Minister refused to take action against MNS chief Raj Thackeray even after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh categorically wanted it. While referring to alleged involvement of Pragya Singh Thakur in Malegaon blast, Mannan cautioned that Hindu right wings were spreading its tentacles spelling bad omen for the country. While searching for a suitable answer about what stops the Centre from hanging Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, he said, "His petition for clemency is lying with the President and the Centre has no role in it." Home Minister Shivraj Patil also reminded him of the inept handling of the security issue that he preferred not to answer. Media also wanted to know party’s stand on the current spate of transfer and posting in the State and reminded him of MP Sushila Kerketta’s demand who wanted specific officers to be posted in her area. Both the leaders however termed it the personal choice of the leader but offered no reaction over transfer and posting issue.

State Cong gears up for ‘friendly fight’ for LS

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Monday, November 10, 2008

As the next Lok Sabha election is approaching near, the Jharkhand Congress has started gearing up to keep its tally in the State intact. The party has decided to start a number of programmes to strengthen grassroots and to give a boost to poll campaign.

However, it might not shy away from friendly contest in some of the parliamentary constituencies in Jharkhand. This was revealed during the State-level meeting of district presidents of the party in the State capital on Sunday

Trying to make its political presence felt in the State, the Congress decided to revive its old programme; “workers rally” in the different divisions of the State that it had undertaken to expose the corruption during the regime of former Chief Minister Madhu Koda. Similar rallies would be organised in Palamu division on December 6-7 to showcase the achievements of the UPA Government

Emerging out of the meeting, Pradesh Congress Committee chief Balmucchu, and AICC secretary and Congress State incharge Abdul Mannan announced a number of programmes such as “Rajiv Gandhi Panchyati Raj Sangathan” scheduled to be held on November 29 that would be attended by Union Minister for Panchyati Raj Manishankar Aiyar. Through this programme, the party hopes it would be able to generate awareness among the mass about the importance of National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGA).

It is almost decided, NREGA becoming the major poll plank of the party in the next general election. In the meeting, it was decided to form members’ committees at district and block levels for spreading the message that the institution of the panchayati raj in Jharkhand is must for effective and corruption-free implementation of NREGA.

It further announced a string of activities such as the formation of booth committees by the end of November 15. The regular meeting of such booth committees would start from November 19 coinciding the birthday of late Indira Gandhi. The membership drive is also on the top of party agenda.

The consensus that emerged after the meeting was: It would like to have a friendly contest in some of the parliamentary constituencies here in the State if other UPA allies including RJD and JMM do not entertain its claim over some of the constituencies such as Chatra, Hazaribagh and Koderma, which party wants to contest, besides retaining such parliamentary constituencies which it won last time.

Balmucchu clarified the stand of the party: "We have a natural claim over these seats and the party would go to any extent to further the tally of the UPA in the State."

For Chatra that is represented by the RJD, the Congress claims to be the only party from UPA clan that can give NDA a befitting reply in the election.

The party would discuss its claim with other UPA allies and "It would be premature to come to any conclusion, the top leaders of the UPA are still to undertake any such meeting for seat sharing," he added.

He answered tactically when he was asked whether the Congress would leave its claim over some of the constituencies if other UPA allies made similar ‘friendly claims’. “We would sit together and discuss our relative strength and weakness… and would come to consensus,” he remarked. It should be noted that RJD made a similar claim over Godda, the moment Congress claimed Chatra.

Munda dares UPA MPs to resign on MNS issue

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Sunday, November 9, 2008

UPA MPs from Jharkhand should not keep mum and "tender their resignation from Parliament in protest against atrocities committed against north Indians by MNS thugs in Maharashtra", leader of opposition Arjun Munda said on Saturday.

He was answering a specific question at a Press meet on whether or not UPA MPs from Jharkhand would go the JD(U) way and resign from their posts as a mark of protest against the inaction of the Centre and Maharashtra Government for not protecting the north Indians from chauvinistic backlash of the MNS. A day back, the JD(U) MPs from Bihar submitted their resignations en masse on this issue.

Taking the background of the continued silence of the MPs of Jharkhand on this issue during the winter session of Parliament, Munda said this during an interaction with the media in the State capital on Saturday.

Holding the State Government headed by Shibu Soren equally responsible for not pressurising the Central Government to tame the MNS, Munda alleged: "Their (MPs from Jharkhand) conspicuous silence over the whole issue exposes their character and commitment. The JMM, which is a part of the UPA Central Government, should have taken measures to protect the people of the State. The Government has become insensitive to the plight of the people even though the violence took toll on the life of the people of Jharkhand."

Munda also termed organisations like the MNS as 'great threat' to the nation and its 'federal character' and cautioned: "People and politicians need to unite on this issue as such parties nourish an ambition to grab power through such subversive means." He also took a dig at the Nationalist Congress Party and the Congress for giving a free rein to MNS in its violent rhetoric against north Indians.

Speaking about State politics, Munda said: "Even the formation of a new Government in Jharkhand has failed to arouse any hope regarding development since the Government is stuck to a two-point agenda to form new blocks to woo the voters and to project his son as a future leader.

State BJP president Pashupatinath Singh also criticised the State Government for creating blocks as per the recommendations of JMM MLAs while ignoring the genuine as well as old demands of people of the areas which are represented by the MLAs other than the UPA.

Slew of projects likely to mark State Foundation Day

Rajiv/Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Friday, November 7, 2008

Considering the Jharkhand Foundation day as the most opportune time to showcase its achievements, the State UPA would hold a meeting on Saturday to chalk out plans to use the occasion to announce several projects as poll sop.

Dropping hints about the intention of the State Government to announce several projects to benefit the poor section of the society, State RJD president Gautam Sagar Rana told The Pioneer that the UPA allies would discuss the foundation day preparations of Jharkhand.

The State Government has decided to turn the foundation day as a mega event and requested the UPA allies of the State to “stand united” on this occasion.

But casting damper upon proposed 'stand united' show the MLAs of the State Congress criticised Chief Minister Shibu Soren for calling such meeting without addressing the core demands of the party.

While stating that the party MLAs had no information about the meeting, Congress MLA Niel Tirkeysquarely blamed the JMM chief for cornering and ignoring the core demands of the Congress including proper implementation of the developmental projects in the State.

"Such meetings would be a sham and a worthless exercise at a time when we have not been able to deliver the promises made to the people," he lamented. Although Congress MLA Sukhdev Bhagat said that he was not intimated about the agenda of the meeting, leader of the Congress members of the Legislative Assembly Manoj Yadav claimed that he has told them about it.

This cosmic morning

Ghats echo with Chhath prayers

Vijay Deo Jha/Richa Ojha, Ranchi Thursday, November 6, 2008

The dawn of the day was a cosmic moment for the devotees when the Sun begun its precipitous ascends in the eastern horizon, and the distant sky was flaming orange like saffron scattered on the heaving rivers, lakes and ponds.

It marked the advent of the final day of four-day-long Chhath Puja when devotees assembled on the banks of rivers, lakes and ponds of the town and offered arghya to the God Sun with folded hand and bowed head. They offered wheat, milk, sugarcanes, bananas and coconuts to the Sun as part of the ritual for divine blessings.

The devotees included 80-year-old Yamuna Devi, who concluded 45 years of worship without fail and Abhaylal Kishore, who travelled a distance of five kilometres all his way prostrating.

Cutting across the caste and creed, millions of devotees; mostly women, took a dip in rivers and ponds for a holy bath in nearly 43 water bodies across Ranchi and offered their prayer to the rising Sun hoping for god's bounty. At some places people celebrated the festival while digging small tanks within the premises of their house.

Chhath Puja was celebrated at different water bodies in the town --- Kanke Dam, Line Tank, Rukka Dam, Bada Talab, Karamtoli pond, Jail Talab, Bariatu Housing Colony Talab, Argoda besides river Swarenrekha where devotees prominently participated in the festival. The Chhath festival was celebrated at the famous Surya temple, Bundu where devotees offered special prayer to Sun God.

But the river Harmu remained desolated more or less owing to its advanced stage of pollution resisting a good number of people from sinking themselves in stinking water for prayer. At Kishorgang the residents offered their prayer in the small tank specially dug for this purposes. There were some other people also who faraway from the bustling ghats of water bodies celebrated Chhath on their rooftop and preemies with equal notes of devotion.

Devotees, who started thronging at river and pond sides from early in the morning attired in new colourful clothes, presented a panoramic conglomeration of religious devotion and festivity. Added with it was the Chhath related sonorous folksongs: Dinanath ho Kahio Ne Sukhai Ankhik Nor…Kahiya Puraibai Assa more, which showed the devoutness of the people at its best display.

People and devotees who turned festive with the offering of evening Arghya to descending Sun on Tuesday refused to sleep whole night as they could been seen busy in bedecking the ghats and illuminating it with lights.

Before the break of day the ecstatic mass with loads bamboo strewed baskets on their head surged on the roads trudging their ways to different water bodies.

Different puja organisations and the wings of district administration had made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the festival. The electricity department was specially instructed to ensure the smooth supply of electricity. Stalls and tents were erected to welcome the devotees.

Who loves you self styled Fasist

Raj’s pledge to allow Chhath Puja has no believers

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi Monday, November 3, 2008

Although Raj Thackeray and his MNS thugs climbed down and said okay to Chhath Puja, the damage has been done.

It left many who returned home emotionally bruised and shattered. Madan and Ranjeet, both brothers from Kanke, are among those who fled from Mumbai under extreme condition with scars of MNS brutality deep upon their psyche.

Now, they will celebrate Chhath puja along with their family member but MNS sponsored violence took toll of their enthusiasm and gusto.

"Yes, we will celebrate festival with the same verve but the moment I recollect the incidents how MNS men tortured and mauled us in the street and threatened us with dire consequences if we continue to make Mumbai our home, I get frightened… it pains." Madan gets lost in emotion while sharing some of the recent horrible moments of his life.

To the family members of Madan and Ranjeet, it was the grace of the goddess that saved their lives. There are many such families in Ranchi who made special prayer pledges prior to Chhath puja if their family members in Mumbai come back safely or remain safe there.

But there are some unfortunate families whose members either sustained severe injuries by MNS activists. The worried family members of Ramu Das are desperately trying to find out his whereabouts since it is suspected that MNS desperados have allegedly murdered him. While another Marki Devi is under treatment, her family members are trying to maintain mental poise.

Chandrawati, the wife of Ramu Das, is finding it hard to accept the reality, ever since the politics over Chhath changed the contours and colour of her life. While political parties are capitalising the issue, the neighbours of Ramu Das decided not to celebrate Chhath with fervor. "We lost our friend and we decided to celebrate Chhath with simplicity," said Kailash, the co-villager of Ramu.

Swearing not to return to Mumbai, Ranjeet who now decided to start his own business here narrated some horrors of the icebergs of MNS vendetta. "It was terrifying when MNS men asked us to leave Mumbai and announced they would not allow Chhath puja at sea beach or in any part of Mumbai.

Last time they managed to put a ban on our cultural get together calling it a vulgar and provocative display of UP and Bihar culture." Another victim, Santosh Chaudhary, working with a reputed pharmaceutical company who returned home after receiving threats, said, "Unlike last time this year I did not find myself so happy when I visited my home town for puja celebration. Why does this self-styled champion of Hinduism hate Chhath puja when even people from other religions celebrate it, may god bless him."