CPIM JK State Secretary Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami files nominations

 State Secretary CPI(M), Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami on November 12th filed his nomination papers in the office of Dy. Commissioner Kulgam. He was accompanied by Ghulam Hassan Mir, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen, other prominent party leaders and large number of supporters. It may be recalled here that Tarigami is seeking mandate from the electorate of Kulgam constituency for fourth consecutive term, as he has retained the seat since 1996 continuously.

A mammoth gathering accompanied Tarigami presenting a festivity look in Kulgam town with all young and female folk attired differently dancing on the tunes of drums. People from all walks of life had thronged the office headquarters of CPI (M) since wee hours who joined a large procession to accompany Tarigami to DC office for filing his nominations. The much delighted and enthusiastic supporters of Tarigami were seen raising piercing slogans in his favour and expressing optimism about the winning of their beloved leader. As if attending a ceremony, the females were seen singing and the joyful youngsters were scintillating and clapping. Entire Kulgam town and streets were decorated with banners, posters and buntings presenting a ceremonious scene everywhere.
Addressing the rally at Town Hall Kulgam after filing nominations, Tarigami said that peace in the south Asia is subservient to cordial relations between India and Pakistan and hostilities be pacified on LOC to foster the peace and ensure the development in the sub-continent. He appealed both the countries to carry forward a meaningful dialogue for exploring means to resolve the bilateral issues including Kashmir, besides dialogue with all shades of opinion on the internal front is also an obligation of the Government of India.
The CPI(M) leader said that the political setup is being much humiliated by the opportunists and defectionists that has eroded the faith of the people in the democracy and the electorate process. He said that the tainted and tempted bureaucrats are equally adding to this humiliation on securing their space in the political spectrum. The political parties don’t hesitate to embrace these unwarranted and blotted elements with open arms. It is very astonishing and sorry state of affairs on the part of the political parties that power hungry defectionists and corrupt retires are being sensitively positioned in their cadres making the people much dejected and disgusted with the political dispensation, Tarigami remarked.
Tarigami said that on the one hand the divisive forces are promptly trying to create a wedge among the people of the state on communal lines and on the other the political system is being rotted by the ill elements, labeling it as an unholy entity. He appealed the people to reject these elements by declaring their verdict against them in the forthcoming elections. The forthcoming elections are an appropriate opportunity for everybody especially the young electorate to participate in the democratic process and have their role in policy making and implementation, he said and appealed the youth to come forward and be a part of political setup to set the deteriorating politics in right direction and endeavoring for socio-political empowerment of every section especially the new generation.

Ignoring the miseries of the people after the recent deluge, the central government is putting its all energy in power grabbing in the state by hook or crook, which is vindicated by recent political developments, Tarigami said, adding that BJP led government has declined from its early stand of declaring the calamity as a national disaster. Thought the fact remains that the state has been in need of economic packages from the government of India from time to time since turmoil erupted in the state for revival of its economy and infrastructure development, he asserted. He reiterated CPI(M)s demand of declaring the recent devastating floods as National Disaster and a massive economic package for the State to bring it back on the rails of the development.

The rally was also addressed by Ghulam Hassan Mir, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen and other senior leaders, who sought a decisive mandate for Tarigami from the electorate of Kulgam. They said that his achievements on socio-political, economic and developmental front have remained remarkable and is enjoying a prominent and respectable status in political circles which demands applause from the people. The AMM leaders stressed the necessity to fight unitedly through this platform against the corruption, misgovernance, unemployment, human rights violations and for creating a peaceful atmosphere in the state. They assured that they will continuously raise their voice for the democratic rights of the people of all the three regions of the state

CPI(M) candidate for Wachi (Jammu Kashmir) constituency filed nomination

CPI(M) candidate for Wachi constituency Zahoor Ahmad Rather filed his nominationShopian November 22: CPI (M) candidate for Wachi constituency Zahoor Ahmad Rather today filed his nomination papers in the office of Dy. Commissioner Shopian. He was accompanied by Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami, State Secretary CPI (M) and other prominent party leaders and large number of supporters. It may be recalled here that Zahoor Ahmad Rather is seeking mandate from the electorate of Wachi constituency for first time.People from all walks of life had thronged village Hermain in Wachi where a mammoth rally was addressed by the CPI (M) leaders after filing of nomination papers. Entire village was decorated with banners, posters and buntings presenting a ceremonious scene everywhere. The much delighted and enthusiastic supporters of CPI (M) were seen raising piercing slogans in favour of their candidate.Stating that the people in south Kashmir’s district Shopian are suffering for want of basic amenities at a time when the world has taken a quantum leap in socio-economic development, infrastructure building and technology, Tarigami said and added that the negligence plunged the agriculture and horticulture sectors into greater crises though they remained the mainstay of people here. He regretted that absence of modern infrastructure had rendered this sector unproductive in many respects, heaping untold miseries upon rural population.Tarigami said that Shopian being a prominent fruit zone of the Valley fetches maximum income to the state through export of fruits so there is an urgent need for introducing modern horticulture and agriculture-related infrastructure in the district.In his address CPI (M) contesting candidate Zahoor Ahmad Rather said that most of the areas of Shopian district were neglected by the successive governments."The poor condition of roads and bridges, inadequate road connectivity, absence of proper health care facilities, lack of proper educational infrastructure, unemployment of educated youth, lack of safe drinking water and non-availability of essentials across the district bear witness to the hollowness of claims made by the governments," he added.“A special package of funds be provided for the development of Shopian district, cold storage, modern grading facilities for apple growers of the district, incentives and inputs be provided to the farmers and fruit growers of the area to which they are entitled under various schemes and exemption of interest on loans to the fruit growers,” the CPI (M) candidate said and assured the electorate of Wachi constituency that he will continuously fight for their rights.Others who addressed the rally include senior CPI (M) leader Ghulam Rasool Ganaie and Youth leader Abdul Rashid Itoo.

Awami Mutahida Mahaz (AMM) Releases First List of its Candidates

Awami Mutahida Mahaz(AMM) today released its first list of ten candidates for the forthcoming state Assembly Elections. J&K Awami Mutahida Mahaz was formed in September last year as an amalgam of CPI(M), Peoples Democratic Front, Samajwadi Party, JKNDF, CPI, IDP and some other likeminded parties/groups. The Mahaz stresses on the formation of alternative political policies, maintaining of state’s unity, strengthening of its secular fabric, rooting out of corruption and striving for exemplary good governance. It aims at making purposeful and constructive intervention within and outside the legislative institutions for maintaining peace and resolving of burning issues, confronting the people of the state. It also advocates guaranteeing difference of opinion, intensive constructive changes in the administration; complete rehabilitation of migrants and released militants , jobs for the unemployed; regularization of casual and other employees and due role to the youth of the state in political, social, cultural and developmental activities. The Mahaz stands for the restoration of all the political and administrative powers to the state, withdrawn by underhand means since 1952, withdrawal of all draconian laws, unconditional release of all detenues against whom there are no serious criminal charges and the removal of disparities among different regions and sub-regions of the state.

 
Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami CPI(M) will contest from Kulgam,Hakeem Mohd Yaseen (PDF) from Khan Sahib, Fayaz Ahmad Dar (PDF) from Budgam, Zahoor Ahmad Rather CPI(M) from Wachi, Ab. Qayoom Mir(PDF) from Pulwama, Ab Rashid Pandith CPI from Shopian ; Er. Sheikh Mohd Shafi (Samajwadi Party) from Baderwah , Amrit Varsa(Samajwadi Party) from Ramban; Advocate Pushpa Dogra (Samajwadi Party) from Chenani and Om Prakash CPI(M) from Reasi

Regarding post flood reconstruction and rehabilitation of the affected in the state, the Mahaz has advocated setting up of an enquiry commission which should identify the main causes of the unprecedented destructive floods and fix its responsibility. The umbrella organization feels that along with other causes, the carelessness and insensitivity of the government has to be taken into account. In its manifesto, the Mahaz has promised to strive with vigour for complete reconstruction of various public and private sectors as also for rehabilitating all the flood affected people. Giving top priority to relief, the Mahaz has urged the central government to declare the recent Kashmir floods as a “National Disaster” and release funds accordingly.

CPIM anti-Israel protest rally in Jammu Kashmir

Stating that military aggression in Palestine has unveiled the real face of Israel that is on forefront of State terrorism in the world, CPI (M) State Secretary Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has said blockade of Gaza Strip under the garb specifically prohibited goods is virtually aimed at the genocide of its local populace.

Addressing a protest rally organized by the CPI (M) workers in Shopian, Tarigami said that it is not the military strikes alone that are killing the innocent Palestinian civilians including defenseless women and children but Israel is prohibiting supply of essential commodities in Gaza which is actually aimed at genocide of Palestinian citizens.

While strongly condemning Israel’s military aggression in Gaza the CPI (M) leader condemned the approach of United Nations Security Council that under the influence of USA did not bother to pass a resolution of condemnation against Israel. “The criminal silence adopted by many dictatorial countries in the Arab world also deserves an equal condemnation as their creepy silence has exposed their tacit support to Israeli barbaric aggression in Gaza,” he added.

Tarigami said that the heinous aggression in Gaza has dangerous repercussions for the entire Middle East and the latest ceasefire efforts   by Egypt to end the hostilities were a half hearted exercise which has further vitiated the situation in the region. He said it is lamentable that the Arab countries, especially Egypt, have failed to stop the Israeli aggression and its illegal blockade on Gaza. “It is a simple war crime for which Israel should be taken to International Court of Justice.”

While stressing on a need to form an international solidarity movement to help Palestinians trapped in Israeli barbarism, the CPI (M) leader demanded that Indian Parliament should adopt a resolution for condemnation of Israeli military action in Gaza and the resulting bloodbath in the region. “The international community should actively intervene to stop the Israeli aggression as the Israeli actions violate international laws and obstruct peace efforts in the region,” Tarigami observed.

Earlier hundreds of activists from CPI (M) and the locals of Shopian took out a peaceful protest march in Shopian that culminated in the Main Chowk Shopian. The protesters raised anti-Israel slogans condemning atrocities on innocent Palestinians.

The rally was also addressed by senior CPI(M) leaders Gh Nabi Malik, Gh Rasool Ganie, Ab Khaliq, Mohd Afzal Parry and youth leaders Arshid Hussain Baba and Ab Rashid

No room for illusions, prepare for united struggle: JKPUF

 

Jammu Kashmir People’s United Front, the newly formed umbrella organization of several political outfits held its second convention in Jammu on Sunday, the 19th of January. The well attended convention was held at Kathua, where the front leaders addressed the workers of the area.

Explaining the aims and objectives of the front, the convener, Mohammd Yousuf Tarigami highlighted the acute problems and miserable conditions being faced by the people of the state. He exhorted the people to come out of slumber and prepare themselves for a relentless, protracted and result oriented struggle. No room for illusions, prepare for united struggles, he stressed.

Highlighting the problems of the people and the insensitive approach of the government, Tarigami said that instead of taking concrete measures to mitigate the sufferings of the masses and provide good governance, the political parties, which have been ruling the state for decades are creating mere illusions and selling dreams for electoral gains. He appealed the people to shun these illusions and launch a united and protracted struggle. Tarigami made it clear that the present grim scenario, which has compelled the majority to live a sub human life is rooted in the politico-economic frame, which has been created and perpetuated by the exploiting classes. The way out is, in shattering this frame and distancing from the forces which try to hoodwink people when the elections come closer. He also warned against the forces which feed on divisive and communal tendencies or regional and parochial mindset. He asked the people to ponder over the fact, as to who gained from the divisive and communal politics till now. “None but the advocates of this kind of politics” he asserted.

He advocated unity and said that regional or communal approach will only weaken the peoples common struggle against miss governance and exploitation. Tarigami advocated an alternative policy route that ensures basic rights and does not rely on charity. He also demanded food security, fool proof health care, right to employment, adequate unemployment allowance and welfare schemes for senior citizens and differently abled persons.

Sheikh Ab Rehman former M.P and state president of Samajwadi Party appealed the conscientious and well meaning people of the state to join the ranks of Peoples United Front. He highlighted the issues of unemployment, price rise and food security. He criticized the government for its dismal performance and alleged that the present dispensation has failed to fulfill its promises and has instead taken anti-people measures for the benefit of a privileged few. It has ignored the socially backward groups and hilly backward areas, while taking up developmental plans. The state resources especially the water resources have not been fully harnessed he asserted . Not only this the Govt has not been able to get compensation from the centre for the losses it suffers due to Indus water Treaty. Sheikh Ab Rahman exhorted the weaker sections and toiling masses to fight against exploitation under the banner of Peoples United Front.


I.D. Khajouria, State Chief of International Democratic Party attacked the government for perpetuating corruption and making it a way of life rather than weeding it out. He said, despite the tall claims of progress and development, the plight of the under privileged, farmers and workers remains miserable. Government is trying the age old machination of dividing people in the name of religion, region and caste, simply to cheat them and keep them away from the path of united struggle. He expressed the hope that the masses will understand these nefarious designs of the exploiting classes and will defeat them by forging unity and sustained struggle.

In the convention, it was resolved to approach all those who want basic changes and alternative policies for improving the lot of the common people. Political outfits, intellectuals and civil society groups were asked to come forward and join the People’s United Front for better future of the state.

Those who also addressed the convention include Sham Prasad Kesar, CPI (M) leader, Ishtiyaq Qadri PDF leader and Smt Santosh Khajouria IDP leader.

Third front alternative formed in Jammu Kashmir

 

 The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples United Front (JKPUF), the third front alternative in Jammu Kashmir is officially formed with CPIM, Samajwadi Party, Lok Jana Shakti Party, CPI and various independent MLA's

The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples United Front (JKPUF) on October 30 held its first public meeting at Sher-e-Kashmir Park attended by thousands of people who had come from different corners of the valley.

Addressing the gathering, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami CPI (M) State Secretary, urged the leadership of India-Pakistan to jointly work for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan which will prove to be beneficial for both the countries especially for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Tarigami said the USA’s exit from Afghanistan in next year will provide a chance to India and Pakistan to show statesmanship in course correction and to strengthen their strained relations.

He also criticized the deliberate erosion in credibility of institutions like Legislative Assembly saying the fate of the resolutions passed in the House is known to one and all here in the state and the country. “The government of India promised return of power projects but what happened to those promises is known to all. The rest of damage was done by the retired general who leveled serious but allegations against political mainstream of the state. We have already demanded a thorough probe into these allegations failing which the government of India cannot blame people of Kashmir for any negative consequences,” he added.

Tarigami also expressed concern over the escalation on borders saying that war being no option, the two countries must work for cessation of hostilities as soon as possible. “The families living near borders are the worst victims of these border skirmishes and the tension on borders have a direct bearing on the people of the state and the two countries,” he observed.

In his address, Hakim Mohammad Yasin president PDF and MLA, expressed serious concern over the prevailing socio-economic and political situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Yasin termed efforts seeking political stability development and dignified future should be endeavour of the political leadership.

He said that unfortunately, in past the people of Kashmir have all along been exploited by political forces for their vote banks. “Time has come when the people should realize that such forces have always been interested in their own benefits. Let me also inform those political forces as well that times have gone when you were befooling people with hollow political and emotional slogans. Now people judge you by your performance.”

President PDF observed that double standards adopted by different political parties is responsible for the prevailing mess in the state. “Had these political forces worked fairly calling spade a spade, things would have been entirely different in this state. But these political forces never tried to portray a real picture in front of people instead they have always been indulging in taking people in an ideal world.”

Abdul Rashid Kabuli, former Member Parliament while addressing the meeting highlighted the sufferings of people saying that India and Pakistan can no longer delay the resolution of the vexed Kashmir issue. “People here cannot tolerate anymore sufferings. Time has come when India and Pakistan should sit and resolve this issue by taking peoples aspirations into consideration. People of the state are primary stakeholders of this issue and should be taken on board. Now the leadership of India and Pakistan are talking peace, we the people of Jammu and Kashmir wish them success in their peaceful endevours.”

Kabuli said that a significant number of people in the state have been killed and hundreds of youth have been detained, tortured and tormented during the ongoing conflict. “Time has come when we should work to make Indi and Pakistan understand the need for dialogue and resolution of this long pending issue,” he added.

Sheikh Abdul Rehman former MP and state president Samajwadi Party in his speech criticized Congress and BJP saying both the parties have caused huge damage to the country in terms of mal practices, corruption and communal disharmony. He said CAF findings have exposed the Congress style of working and how the party is neck deep in corruption.

“While Congress is neck deep in corruption the BJP is surviving on communal frenzy. However, both the parties are being funded by corporate houses who have large stakes in country’s economy,” he added.

Sanjay Saraf, Lok Janshakti Party leader observed lamented that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah being a young leader; nothing tangible was done for the unemployed youth of the state. “People had expected a lot from this young man but he proved to be failure. What his government did is evident from that fact that over a 100 youth were killed in 2010 out of which not a single case has reached to any logical conclusion.”

Similarly, Saraf said that the youth of the state are being fed with drugs to benefit the vested interests who use our youth for their vote bank politics.

Abdul Rehman Tukru state secretary CPI also addressed the meeting. In his speech, Tukru said that it is the common people of the state who bear the brunt of the faulty policies of the state and the central government. “We witnesses the common people are being pushed from pillar to post for their genuine issues. What type of policy it is that peasants, who are our backbone, are being neglected to the hilt?”

Meanwhile, Tarigami observed that the all the political leaders who have pledged to work jointly have reached to a consensus that now onwards we will work under the banner “Peoples United Front”. Tarigami said that the Front is well versed with its strength but want to assure the people that efforts will be made to further strengthen this forum. “We know our efforts are inadequate to the challenge in front of us but nevertheless it is a humble beginning from our side to work for our people. In future we will also try to seek support from certain civil society groups, intellectuals and political leaders to strengthen this Front so that people get some sort of relief in their daily lives,” he added.

He appealed people not to misconstrue PUF as an alternative political force which is in search of power. “People of this state are confronted with many grave issues including corruption, misgovernance, political unrest, poor development, unemployment. We won’t claim of having any magic wand to change this scenario within a jiffy, but we will seek peoples support for alternative policies which can bring some change. This is what, we pledge to work for,” he observed.

(Courtesy : Com. Shyam Prasad Kesar)

J&K Anganwadi Workers, Helpers protest in support of their demands

Vice-President All India Federation of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers (AIFAWH) K. Hemlata today expressed serious concern over non allocation of adequate financial resources for Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) to improve the condition of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers. Instead, she said, the government of India has decided to run ICDS in a mission mode which means after concentrating on it for some time it will be stopped.

 

Hemlata was addressing Anganwari workers and helpers who had assembled here at Sher-e-Kashmir Park Srinagar. The workers and helpers later staged a protest demonstration that started at S.K.Park and culminated at Press enclave.

 

She said that ICDS has been playing an important role in reducing malnutrition, but the government’s apathetic attitude has been creating hurdles. “Besides privatization of nursery schools for pre-school education, the government has decided to privatize 10% of ICDS projects by handing them over to NGO’s, Corporates. There is no provision for increasing the wages of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers or providing them with social security benefits. But the mission says that the Anganwadi workers and Helpers should be retired at the age of 65 Years,” she said.

 

Hemlata observed that because of the efforts of CITU the Indian Labour Conference (45th Session) has discussed the conditions of scheme workers including Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, ASHA’s etc. as an agenda item. They should be recognized as workers, paid minimum wages and social security benefits, but the government is not ready to implement these recommendations. All India Federation is fighting against this attitude of government. A black day was observed on July 10th and the Federation has decided to continue the struggle by holding convention along with the beneficiary organizations involving the people at State and District level and also through big mobilizations all over the country. It has also decided to participate in joint Trade Union programmes on 25th September and 12th December, she said. 

 

Jameela Sabiri General Secretary JKAWHU, Naseema Kuchay President JKAWHU,  Spinder Kour Treasurer and Kanta Devi Anganwadi leader urged the Government to immediately release the arrears in favour of the Anganwadi workers and helpers under Central and State share, besides ensuring time bound promotions in various cadres of the Social Welfare Department. They said that Anganwadi workers and helpers, the grass root workers of the ICDS scheme should be entitled to decent living. Their immediate demands which include payment of gratuity, the formulation of a pension scheme to ensure that these women workers do not languish in their old age: immediate enhancement of their meager remuneration to the consumer price index: payment of minimum wages and withdrawal of attempts to privatize ICDS must be fulfilled forthwith. A standing mechanism must be put in place in Ministry of women and Child Development for revision in the rates of Honorarium of Anganwadi workers and helpers.  Anganwadi workers and helpers should be covered by the EPF and ESI Act for regularization of their services as Govt, employee, besides Anaganwadi Centres must be made as noodle centers to impart pre-school education.

 

Others who spoke on the occasion include Abdul Rashid Najar, Joint Secretary CITU, CITU leaders Sham Prasad Kesar and Om Prakash Sharma. These leaders demanded release of pay dues to the newly appointed workers, conversion of ICDS as a separate department and demanded provision of pensionary benefits to the workers and helpers. 

 

The protestors were carrying banners, placards and shouting slogans demanding regularization of their services as Class III and Class IV employees with immediate increase in their honorarium to Rs. 5000 and Rs 4000 per month respectively. They were also demanding release of training grants in favour of the workers and helpers without any delay and providing of T.A, D.A for attending different meetings like pulse polio, Aids Awareness Programme e

Reduce the Sufferings of Kashmiri Masses: CPI(M)

In the backdrop of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s present visit to Jammu and Kashmir, J&K State Committee of  CPI(M) has expressed its dissatisfaction over the current scenario of the state. In a statement issued here today, the party unit alleged
that:
The disillusionment of people has steadily increased and the  expectations regarding improvement in the overall socio-economic  situation and progress of peace process have decreased. The hanging of Afzal Guru and some other unfortunate incidents have resulted in serious setback to the political process and reconciliation. In order to set things right and instill confidence, the political leaders, both at national and state level should introspect and take quick and adequate corrective measures. Till now, the valuable opportunities for peace and reconciliation in the state have not been fully availed. This has resulted in untold sufferings of the common masses. In order to reduce the sufferings of the people and usher an era of peace and prosperity in the region, the stalled Indo-Pak dialogue and the talks between Government of India and the various political sections of the state including the voices of dissent need to be given priority. The confidence building measures which had generated hope among the people on both sides of the LoC, like people to people contact and cross LOC trade need to be strengthened and followed with vigour and utmost seriousness. Relaxation in the regulations regarding travel papers,
replacement of barter system by the use of currency and banking facilities in cross LOC trade and provision of speedy communication facilities will make these CBMs meaningful and effective.

A shadow of fear still hovers certain sections of the younger generation as harsh and draconian laws like AFSPA and PSA continue to haunt them. This needs to be cleared and corrected. The cases of those languishing in jails outside the state should be taken on fast tract so that speedy justice is done. There should be an amount of tolerance towards the voices of protest and dissent. Violence in any form as a means of solution to our problems needs to be rejected out rightly. Apart from other aspirations of the youth, growing unemployment has resulted in frustration and alienation. This is proving harmful for peace and development in the state. Since there are no employment opportunities in private sector within the state, the Government of India should make result oriented efforts to get the educated and professionally trained youth of J&K absorbed in public and private sectors of the country.

The recommendations of different working groups and interlocutors aimed at providing relief to the people need to be reviewed and implemented. PM’s reconstruction programme regarding the return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants deserves serious attention. Adequate relief to earth quake sufferers in the erstwhile Doda district must be ensured.

Corruption free good governance with accountability has been a long cherished dream of our people and could have proved an effective facilitator in seeking solutions to our current problems. Unfortunately this has not been achieved and we have miles to go for reaching this goal. In the same way, the institutionalization, decentralization and democratization of the administration continues to be a distant dream.

Introspection needed to find reasons behind educated youth joining militancy: M Y Tarigami

Denial to a free political space, failure to administer justice to the families of victims of violence and complacency about the fleeting calm are a few important aspects which seriously demand an introspection at all levels in the country before finding out reasons behind the emerging tendency of educated youth joining militant ranks in Jammu and Kashmir.

This was observed by the CPI (M) State Secretary Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami while addressing a Round Table meeting organized by the Centre for Policy Analysis in Srinagar. Referring to over 110 killings that took place during 2010 summer unrest, the CPI (M) leader said question can be posed that why the criminal investigations in these mostly unprovoked incidents of violence have not been concluded and culprits brought to justice even in a single case during the last three years.

“Three years have passed and justice still eludes the families who have lost their near and dear ones during 2010. What happened to the Commission of Inquiry which was mandated to probe 17 killings only? And why was this commission given only 17 killings to probe when we lost over a 110 youth? Has a single case been solved sofar?

The CPI (M) leader observed that initiatives taken after 2010 civilian unrest that include eight-point recommendations announced by central government also proved to be a half-hearted exercise. A lot of lip service was paid to heal the wounds, but precious little was practically done to honour the commitment. Pathetic plight and callous neglect of a plethora of recommendations made by interlocutors have been gathering dust.

One can ask the political leadership of the country that what happened to decisions taken by the Cabinet Committee of Security that recommended to the state government to convene a meeting of the Unified Command to review the notification of disturbed areas. This serious confidence building measure which was supposed to heal the scars of people has been reduced to mere sloganeering. Otherwise, law and order being the state subject, the state cabinet can meet and assess the situation. Also if there is a political will, the state government could de-notify areas as ‘not disturbed’ and thereby making application of AFSPA redundant.

Similarly, Tarigami lamented that the misuse of Public Safety Act in Kashmir. “In its eight point recommendations, the Cabinet Committee on Security had also advised the state government to immediately review the cases of all PSA detenues and withdraw the detention orders in appropriate cases. Here, I would like to quote a similar case of my own constituency Kulgam. Sabzar Ahmad Bhat a resident of Sofipora Daderkoot district Kulgam is a surrendered militant who has been booked in some criminal cases. He has been in jail for the last over six and half years now. Bhat has been acquitted by the honorable court and granted bail in all 8 FIRs registered against him. But when he was to be released, he has again been booked under PSA on June 12, 2013. What to do in such kind of a situation? This young man has not been released once to meet his hapless old aged parents who have not left any stone unturned to get their bread earner out from jail,” he informed.

The eight point announcement was followed by appointment of interlocutors who made some recommendations but till date no action has been taken either by the state or the central government and the report prepared by the group is gathering dust.

“People in Kashmir are living in a suffocating atmosphere. Even peaceful dissent is not tolerated and gross injustices go unpunished. Almost all channels of communication have been blocked and means of protest is being suppressed ruthlessly. What is more worrying is that the youth is being targeted mercilessly. And yet if someone, does not understand or willfully chooses to ignore the real cause and shuts one’s eyes to its inevitable consequences the overall situation is bound to deteriorate rather than coming to normal. Whichever, political party comes in power in Delhi hardly matters for the people of Kashmir. What the people of Kashmir hope is that the political and democratic opinion across the country is mobilized for providing justice to the people. The democratic forces of the country need to come out of slumber before it is too late.

Govt must come out with facts on spurious drug supplies in Jammu Kashmir

Statement issued by the J&K State Committee, CPI (M)
The CPI (M) express serious concern over the day-to-day disclosures of scams and other administrative irregularities in Jammu and Kashmir. Keeping aside the factional political considerations involved and the blame game between the heads of the departments, the government must order a thorough probe in these shocking leaks for the larger public interest.

The level of corruption and financial mismanagement in the state administration has reached to distressing low. The Committee believes that the people are shocked by the recent reports about spurious drugs carried by the print and electronic media. The cases of corruption surfacing regularly in the media unfortunately reflect a pattern and the height of vested interest.

Be it the corruption and irregularities in PHE and Irrigation Department that grabbed the attention of both the Houses of Legislative Assembly in its recently concluded session, or spurious drugs being supplied to hospitals; it seems, scams are tumbling out every day. By now, the government should have come out with the facts on these issues of utmost importance. To the contrary there is not even a proper statement from the government on this subject. It is also ironic that there are reports that even an official included in the list of suspects is part of the departmental investigation in the spurious drug scam. The scars of infant mortality at valley’s lone children hospital were fresh in the minds of the people and now the spurious drugs supplied to them have further refreshed these scars.

The silence on part of the government on this crucial issue is further adding to the doubts of people that there is a deep rooted nexus. In order to clear these aspersions, the government must come out clear on the subject in the best interest of public. There is also a need for necessary and effective steps to be taken to bring down the level of corruption by strengthening the monitoring and vigilance in the government departments. Rampant corruption in the administration has alienated the people in Jammu and Kashmir to the hilt. If the government is serious in its promises to weed out the corruption in the state; there is an urgent need to strengthen the already existing institutions of probity and accountability in the system.

Almost all programs initiated by central government are not delivering the desired results. Government of India has repeatedly censured the state for its failure to implement MNREGA and other centrally sponsored schemes.

The recent revelations made by the CAG informing that the Jammu and Kashmir Government has failed to submit 2,931 Utilisation Certificates amounting to over Rs 2,118 crore to the Centre is also disappointing. The State Committee of CPI (M) believes that such lacklustre attitude will affect the flow of funds to the State in future. This needs to be looked into for the welfare of people.

Government promoting corruption, rues MY Tarigami

Lashing out at the National Conference led Coalition Government for its “failure” to curb rampant corruption in J&K, the CPI (M) state Secretary M Y Tarigami Thursday alleged that “instead of tackling corruption, the state government is promoting it.” “Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah had on the Floor of the House said that his government will remove corrupt officers. Then it was said that the list of corrupt officers has been prepared. I would like to ask Omar Abdullah what happened to that list. Ironically , instead of sacking these corrupt employees , the government is placing them on key positions in the administration which indeed means promoting corruption culture in the state,” Tarigami alleged. He said: “We have time and again raised the issue of empowering the State Accountability Commission but instead of giving it authority, it has been rendered defunct. The Vigilance GKOrganization has failed to deliver. Time has come that Accountability Commission should have its independent organizations that will investigate graft cases.” Addressing his party workers at Pratap Park here, Tarigami said “in our state people are being charged to pay for darkness. “We have to pay power tariff despite no electricity available and whenever people try to lodge their protest, police is brought to muzzle their voices.” He demanded that state government should issue ration to the people living below poverty line (BPL) at the rate of Rs 2 per kg. "The present poverty line figures of Rs 26 a day for an adult in rural India and Rs 32 in urban India continues to be the basis for access to Public Distribution System (PDS), which means larger sections of the poor will be legally excluded from the right to food," he said. He said the Centre is planning to pass Food Security Bill which will make Public Distribution System (PDS) dysfunctional. “Our central leadership is protesting against it, we will also join them,” he said. Later, Activists of CPI (M), led by Tarigami, staged a demonstration against the proposed food legislation and continuous rise in prices of essential commodities in the country. Carrying banners and placards, the CPI (M) activists and supporters assembled outside the Press Enclave here and tried to take out a march to submit a memorandum to the office of Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir. However, the march was not allowed by policemen.

(Courtesy: Greaterkashmir.com)

CPIM protest in Jammu against price rise

Regional Committee, Jammu of Communist Party of Indian (Marxist) observed protest demonstration at Green Belt Park, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu on the call of left parties including CPI(M) to demand a universal public distribution system to ensure food security for all citizens. A large number of party activists from different sectors participated in this protest. All the activists holding red flags and placards in their hands raised slogans against the policies of the government. The rally started from Green Belt Park and after passing through the Panama Chowk and culminated at Divisional Commissioner office and handed over the memorandum to the Divisional Commissioner.

Speaking on the occasion Comrade Sham Prasad Kesar, Regional Secretary of CPI (M) said that this demonstration is the culmination of the month-long joint campaign on the issue of food security and price rise conducted by the Left parties throughout the country. Kesar demanded to concede the following demands immediately that is No BPL or APL, we demand a universal public distribution system, give 35 kg of food grains at a maximum rate of two rupees a kilo per family, distribute the huge eight crore food grain stocks by increasing allocations immediately, scrap the Planning Commission’s highly dubious poverty estimates. Do not use them as basis for allocations for welfare rights, Implement the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations for a fair procurement price and profit margin for formers.

According to the United Nation’s Global Hunger Index, India ranks 67 amongst the 80 countries in the world which suffer from acute hunger of its people. Twenty five percent of the world’s hungry are (shameful to admit) today Indians. According to this Index, India ranks even below counties like North Korea and civil war ridden and now divided Sudan.
Kesar further demanded uninterrupted power supply and check on rampant corruption.

While addressing the gathering senior leaders of party like Om Parkash, State General Secretary CITU, Kishore Kumar, Sohan Lal, Dharm Singh, Bishan Dass, V. K. Vaid said that with the introduction of the neo-liberal economic reforms, the universal public distribution system through ration cards was abandoned in 1997, this system allowed 21 million tonnes of foodgrains, i.e., 45 per cent of the available food stock in 1991 to be distributed through the ration shops. By 2001, such distribution reduced to a mere 13 million. The draft food Security bill perpetuates the targeting of people into priority (BPL) and general (APL). This will automatically exclude 54 per cent of the families in rural areas and 72 per cent in the urban areas. The below-poverty-line (BPL) cardholders will have to pay Rs three per kg of rice when eight states are providing rice at Re one or two per kg for those in the BPL list. Other addressing the gathering were Babu Ram, Ganesh Dass Bawa Ram, Sunita, Kanta , H.D.Bhomick , Kulbir Singh.

CPIM Jammu-Kashmir State Conference

CPIM Jammu Kashmir State conference ahead of the 20th Party congress to be held at Kozhikode in April was held at Jammu from 24th to 26th March 2012.

A mass public rally was held at Press Club Jammu on the 24th March by the State Unit of CPI(M) as a part of its two-days 9th State Conference., which was presided by senior party leader, Sham Prasad Kesar. The participants carrying placards and banners were raising slogans against corruption, price rise and failure of central and state governments at all fronts.

Addressing the well-attended rally, Com Prakash Karat, General Secretary, CPI(M) called for strengthening of the CPI(M) and building a unity of the Left and Democratic forces in the country. “In the present situation in the country, the people are suffering from continuous price rise, massive corruption and shrinking job opportunities. It is necessary to have a left and democratic alternative” he said.

The UPA-II Government at the centre for last three years has pursued policies which are harmful for the people of the country. In the recent Union Budget proposals, there is a big cut in subsidies for fuel and fertilizers. This is going to lead to further price rise. Farmers are already facing difficulties to buy fertilizers in view of steep prices. More and more workers are hired on contract basis. Even government departments are hiring contract employees, thus, they are deprived of all the benefits.

As far as corruption is concerned there is no difference between Cong and BJP. Whereas the UPA has become notorious for one after another corruption scams, the record of the BJP is also bad. The corruption indulged in by Karnantaka State Government of the BJP is an example.

Only the CPI(M) and left parties have clean record as far as corruption is concerned. CPI(M) consistently fight against both the neo-liberal policies and the communal forces.

He appealed to the people of J&K not to be divided on communal lines. Such efforts are being made by communal forces on both sides. He criticized the central government for its failure to initiate a political dialogue to ensure a political solution for the problems in J&K. There are many measures that have to be taken now as militancy and violence has come down to instill confidence in the people of the state.

Addressing the rally, State Secretary CPI( M), M.Y.Tarigami urged India and Pakistan to give up the path of disastrous confrontation which has only resulted in pauperizing the people of both the countries and must draw the lessons as quickly as possible to live together. There are options and opportunities which if availed can result in initiation of credible consensus of resolving outstanding issues. The people of J&K can have a sigh of relief and our suffering substantially be reduced if such a process takes off in the region. People of J&K being on the cross-fire can only appeal to the leadership of both the countries to come out from their traditional rigidities.

Indo-Pak confrontations have not only threatened the peace in the sub-continent but have consumed lot of their resources and left the people of J&K across LOC in pathetic conditions.

He strongly urged upon the leadership of the country to come forward and seize the opportunity for entering into a credible process which can help in finding out constitutionally guaranteed political settlement of this long pending issue. The people of J&K have to be assured that any such solution must protect the unity of the state and preserve its diversities. Constitutional mechanisms need to be evolved which could guarantee that such settlement is not abused in future.

People of J&K have almost lost the trust on govt. assurances because whatever commitments have been made so far by the successive govts. have not been implemented. He also refereed to the recommendations of the Working Groups and recently submitted report of the interlocutors.

Cautioning the people of the state to be vigilant against the communal and divisive forces hell-bent to create a wedge among the different regions and communities ; he said that such designs should be fought tooth and nail.

Lamenting both the central and state governments for having failed to curb the menace of corruption, CPI(M) State Secretary said that State Accountability Commission and Vigilance Commission to be competent enough and resourceful to deal the corruption cases firmly and independently. For the purpose, he suggested for an internal and independent mechanism for anti-corruption institutions.

While speaking on the occasion Mohmmad Saleem, Member, Central Committee CPI(M) said that corruption at all levels has exposed UPA led government badly. Ridiculing the Union Govt. for its least concern over the plight of the farmers and working class people frequently subjected to untold economic crisis and natural calamities on the one hand and its constant efforts for bailing out Kingfisher airlines from the present mess is surprising, on the other hand, he said. Political solution of J&K problem lies in restoration of autonomy to the state with regional autonomy to its three distinct regions, he said. He lambasted the successive govts. for failing to implement their promises made from time to time for restoration of autonomy to the state.

Addressing the rally senior CPI(M) leader Gh.Nabi Malik demanded immediate relief to the affectees the recent storm which has devastated public property and horticulture. He regretted that delay is being made in providing relief to the affected families.The rally was also addressed by trade union leaders Om Prakash and Javaed Zargar who highlighted the demands of the different sections of the working people of the state.

Delegate session started at 4 P.M.which was inaugurated by Prakash Karat. CPI(M) State Secretary M Y Tarigami presented the political - organisational report in the conference highlighting the global consequences of "imperialistic liberalisation". It also pointed out the designs of imperialistic forces in South Asia and the Arab world for their ulterior motives. In the report the failures of the UPA government have been analysed and assessment of the present political and economic scenario of the country has also been underlined. It also expresses concern on rising prices, corruption, unemployment and the issues confronting the common man. The party shall unitedly fight against the designs of imperialistic forces in South Asia with other like-minded, progressive and democratic forces, the report suggested. The party shall mobilise the people against anti-people economic policies at every level, as per the report. After delibrations on the report, it was adopted by the conference.

On the conlcluding day of the conference a 17 member state committee was elected. The state committee later unanimously re elected com. MY Tarigami as the state secretary. The conference also elected four delegates for 20th Party Congress.

The conference also adopted resolutions regarding containing unemployment, transfer of powers to Panchayats, protection of human rights, universalisation of PDS, curbing corruption, promoting agriculture and horticulture, protection of trade union rights, removing gender discrimination, implementation of Ranga Rajan committee report, rehabilitation of migrants, refugees and providing relief to the affected families of the recent wind storm in the state.