WEEKLY NEWS ROUNDUP

INTERNATIONAL

Nuclear Summit at Washington

Prime Minister Dr.ManMohanSingh is in America on a four day visit. His visit on the eve of a Nuclear summit scheduled to commence tomorrow attended by 47 nations assumes significance at a moment the whole world is caught in the race for stock-piling more and more nuclear war-heads. The summit is primarily intended to reduce the stock-pile of nuclear weapons in the possession of various nations and to take urgent steps to prevent the terrorists from acquiring ‘dirty weapons’ as the terrorists will have no qualms in wreaking destruction at any part of the world and to warn the participating nuclear weapon states to provide maximum security to their nuclear sites thus protecting them from the reach of the hard-core militants.

To the consternation and shock of the participating countries including the host USA under whose leadership the nuclear summit is hosted Israel under Benjamin Netanyahu’s last minute withdrawal from the summit has turned out to be a dangerous portend. Israel always nurses apprehensions of attacks from the Arab community, the latter’s anger and belligerent attitude on the simmering issue of Palestinian is widely known across the world. A kind of existential threat, mutual suspicion lingering since 1948 must have been the reason behind the last minute back-out from the much-hyped summit. Major responsibility for this existential threat lies with Israel itself as intermittent bombardments, ruthless carnage of Palestinians and building settlements in West Bank and Gaza strip ignoring the warnings of its long term friends USA, Britain and a few Western nations.

Heartening indeed to note here that an ardent desire to slash Nuclear stock-piles in the armory of world’s two largest nuclear weapon possessors US and Russia- 95 percent of the lethal weapons are in their kitty- is seen.

Last week’s START-I (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) held in Prague in the august presence of US President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and the signing of a treaty to slash the atomic weapons by third is certainly a welcome sign. Yes, it is only a short step forward but that is not at all enough. Each country has certain roles to play in slashing the lethal nuclear war-heads and to enable them to refrain from acquiring such weapons, threat of sanctions and war is not a solution as such threats ultimately lead to the intensification of the fear-psychosis that is inherent in the psyche of developing nations and they are thus constrained to proceed on manufacturing nuclear weapons. Powerful nations must instead adopt a soft approach to these nations, invite them to talks and erase the apprehensions. Thus better sense would prevail upon them and that would ultimately lead them to refrain from the path of manufacturing killer weapons.

At this juncture close on the heels of Nulcear summit in USA in India a minor lapse in a Delhi super market led to the leaking of Cobalt-60 made many persons fall sick with symptoms of dizziness, nausea, rashes, dehydration. Cobalt-60 is mainly used to detect cancer. It was of less intensity and suppose major incidents were to happen somewhere what would have been the plight of innocent citizens.

While writing about the Nuclear Summit I just recalled the incident and set me thinking.

Hope better counsel would prevail over the nations especially nuclear-power nations to rescue the whole world from a nuclear holocaust.

Democratic Reforms in Pakistan

It is a welcome step. An all-party delegation, all unanimous in their views, tabled a report in National Assembly thus paving the way for the passage of 18th Amendment bill which would be an appreciatory step in future. Pakistan President Asif Ali Sardari will be divested of his privilege to dissolve the Parliament without the recommendation of cabinet. This privilege was introduced by none other than the former President General (Retd) Pervez Musharraf to perpetuate his hold on power. Now that Asif Sardari’s privilege to dissolve the Parliament to be taken away from him, the cabinet under Muhammed Yusuf Raza Gilani must recommend the dissolution of the Parliament, if warranted, to the President and then only the latter be enabled to proceed on these lines. The ushering in of a powerful democracy means the Army’s wings also getting clipped. Furthermore Indian democracy has a lot to cheer about - the co-existence of two neighbouring democracies in the long run may prove beneficial to both.

Taliban still haunting U.S.

Taliban launched another fierce attack on U.S Mission in Afghanistan and a suicide bombing at Peshawar led to the death of over 40 activists of the National Awami Party while holding a rally there inflicting heavy casualties on both sides. Four terrorists were reportedly killed in the encounter with security forces.

U.K to go to polls on May 6

United Kingdom is set to go to polls on May 6. The much awaited elections to be watched across the world for the last one year by international observers drawing near with popularity ratings of Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Conservative leader David Cameroon amidst twists and turns, the results might spring up some surprises. From the penultimate days of the reign of Tony Blair who was forced to step down on the Iraq muddle The New Labour Party’s popularity was steeply declining. With the elevation of the then Chancellor of Exchequer to prestigious post of Prime Minister, note here it was the fulfillment of his long cherished dream- Gordon Brown’s popularity graph was on a downward curve. An upbeat David Cameroon if nurtured dreams of entering 10 Downing Street with his popularity rate at its peak it was quite natural. The British electorate was also pretty sure about Mr.Cameroon and his wife Samantha (she might have felt like the first lady of the nation) getting enthroned in PM’s saddle in the near future.

Now much water flowed down Thames since then the results are anybody’s guess. A hung parliament is predicted by some observers. But observers can also go wrong that is the way politics move on. Another contender Nick Clegg of Liberal Democratic Party this time with the Harry Potter fame Daniel Radcliffe to his help though not cherishing the prestigious post at least might be able to play king maker. The Green Party under Caroline Lucas is hopeful of improving the Party’s prospects. Await till the counting date.

S.M.Krishna’s China visit

Much need not be expected from the visit of Foreign Minister S.M.Krishn’a visit to China. Here also ‘chai, samosas and gritty charm’. Tall talks on improving mutual relations, improving strategic, economic, educational, business, industrial ties, with all issues of contention still swept under the carpet, whether Pakistan must be watching with the wily ways of its traditional friend China, amusingly, interestingly and what not? Anyhow the news of pact on hotline between the two nations is a welcome one. Camaraderie Bonhomie, all abound

Rajapakse feels humbled

The formidable victory of SriLankan President Mahindra Rajapakse’s UFPA alliance (United Freedom Peoples’ Alliance) and his National Freedom Party in the Parliament elections finds him on a cheerful, humble mood for the enormous trust and love showered upon him close on the heels of his 18 per cent majority victory in the Presidential elections against his immediate opponent Retd (General) Sarath Fonseka on Feb 26.

Emergency declared in Thailand

Thailand PM, Abhijit Vejjajiva in the face of mounting attacks against his Govt by Pro-Thaksin citizens declared emergency in the country. He still refuses to budge and is not willing to step down. The stand-off still continues.

Indian student wins Gates award

Indian student Aditi Malik emerged one among the victorious students instituted by Melinda Gates foundation in the field of Social relations.7000 students from various nations had contested and only 80 emerged successful, and the Indian student Aditi Malik is one among them. Aditi Malik is student of human rights and she is going to join Cambridge courtesy Gates Foundation to go on with her studies coming autumn. A proud glorious moment for India and our congrats in abundance. Aditi hails from Delhi.

Polish President killed in a Plane Accident

Polish President Lech Kazynski along with 96 Polish delegation met with a Plane crash on board Tu-154 killing him on the spot. All the travelers got killed. Ignoring the Russian warnings the pilot of the ill-fated plane persisted with landing at an airport in the Russian city Slovenska amidst the thick fog. The plane hit the trees and crashed. The fog and the pilot’s error must have caused the crash. Kazynski’s twin brother Jaroslaw Kazynski is also an active participant in Polish politics.

India against Sanctions on Iran

Dr.ManMohanSingh has made it known to the US authorities India’s reservations on the move of US to impose sanctions against Iran. Whether it will go down well with America and its allies remains to be seen.

NATIONAL

Women’s Reservation Bill

The passage of Women’s Reservation Bill in the Loksabha scheduled to start on April 15 is unlikely. The Yadav troika and their allies, Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party are up in arms to stall it from getting tabled. The euphoria after its passage in the Rajya Sabha has vanished. The culprits are among the ruling elite also as many male MPs are apprehending the loss of their right to contest in the coming elections if it is enacted. Male-chauvinists have the upper hand in the national mainstream even now.

80th Anniversary of Dandi

Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi like some brand ambassadors of our country has already evolved into a ‘brand’- A ‘brand’ to be remembered and eulogized even by our neo-liberal ruling mandarins, industrialists, business tycoons only on special occasions. Otherwise how many of us recalled him on April 6, The 80th Anniversary of Dandi March which went off without a whimper. Khadi-clad political leaders are seen everywhere and Khadi-clad business tycoons also seen roaming around the citadels of power to achieve their aims by hook or by crook. I don’t want to write or talk much about them as my pen must not get dirtied.

Chidambaram’s Apology

“The buck stops at my desk. I own full responsibility for the dastardly incident”- Chidambaram was seen opening out his heart before the media on the unfortunate massacre of 76 CRPF jawans in the forests of Chintan Malar,. Dantewada district of Chattsigarh. He had reportedly sent in his resignation letter to the Prime Minister and PM abruptly confident of our Home Minister and that is a good omen.

Shoaib-Sania Nikah

Fed up. The media reminding us of paparazis are flocking around Sania and Shoaib Malik at Jubilee Hills residence of Sania expecting scent of something to enter their nostrils. Let them tie the nuptial knot and Insha Allah happily live there after, anywhere, anytime. Our media people have more serious issues to take up and leave these minor issues into the background. Sensationalism and gossips still continue to be the curse of our media as is the practice prevalent everywhere.

Left Parties hold demonstrations

Left parties CPI(M), CPI, RSP, Forward Block under the leadership of Prakash Karat, A.B.Bardhan, Abani Roy, Debabrata Biswas led a long march along the Parliament street protesting against the galloping prices of food items and other essential commodities and also demanding the roll-back of those items. Karat, Bardhan ,Debabrata Biswas and Abani Roy courted arrest in the agitation against the UPA II govt.

FDI banned in Cigar sector

Who told our Govt is opening up all sectors for Foreign Direct Investment? The govt. care for our health seriously and hence no question of allowing FDIs in the cigarette manufacturing sector. Kudos to our Govt. After all Cigarette smoking is injurious to health. Touching indeed.

REGIONAL

Kerala State Film Awards Announced

The much expected Kerala State Film awards announced with ‘Paleri Manickyam- Oru Pathirakolapthakathinte Katha’ bagging the Best picture Award and Renjit conferred with the Best Director Award for the same film. Swetha Menon, as Chirutha bagged the best heroine award and Mamootty the best actor. Pazhassi Raja, directed by Hariharan and scripted by M.T.Vasudevan Nair got away with eight awards. Yesudas, the best male singer and Shreya Ghoshal the best female singer stole the limelight.

On the expected this year’s film awards announcement was followed by the washing the dirty linen in public with the ones who were left high and dry fuming and those who won the awards getting elated. Anyhow media celebrated the event, discussions, interviews and cross-fires as usual. Good. The show must go on.

Vaishakhan felicitated

Noted writer Vaishakhan was felicitated at Thrissur the other day by Purogamana Kala Sahithya Sanghom. His story ‘Silencer’ which was published in the Mathrubhumi Weekly bagged the Kamala Surayya Award. As a writer it was recalled by a critic his independent writing owing no leniency towards any ‘isms’. Noted social activist and cultural icon Sukumar Azhikode pointed out that Vaishkhan depicted the true life through his writings. Congratulations Vaishakhan.

Adieu to Rajesh, the brave Jawan

Rajesh, the Malayalee jawan who was one among the 76 killed in an ambush by the Maoists in the forests of Chintan Malar was given a tearful adieu at his native place of Airapuram, Mazhuvannur. He was given an adieu befitting a brave jawan who fought for his nation with full State honours in the presence of weeping relatives, friends and local people.

Thakazhy literary festival begins

Jnanapith Award winner and internationally acclaimed writer Thakazhy Sivasankara Pillai was recalled at Sankara Mangalam, Thakazhy, Kuttanad and an eight day literary festival got off to a colourful start. Discussions, seminars and Kaviyarangu are included in the eight day literary festival. Before the inauguration of the festival in the presence of Katha, Thakazhi’s better-half floral tributes were offered at Smriti Mandapam where he was laid to rest.

Katha was felicitated on the occasion. G.Sudhakaran Co-operation Minister inaugurated the event and noted novelist George Onakkur delivered a lecture on the writings of Thakazhi, K.R.Meera and other dignitaries were present.

SPORTS

Navratilova diagnosed with breast-cancer

Martina Navratilova, the renowned tennis star who holds a record of winning eight grand slams has been diagnosed with breast-cancer. She was in tears when the news was first revealed to her. The doctors are very much hopeful of curing it completely as it is non-invasive and only one percent out of hundred succumbs to it. Let’s pray for her immediate recovery.

Golf

Tigerwoods back to his first love

After undergoing traumatic days involving his sexcapades with more than a dozen ladies which led to his wife Jane Nerdine leaving him alone, Tiger Woods was all repentance personified. He confessed to his immoral acts before the media, spent his days in a rehabilitation centre, the therapy still continues. Tiger Woods is a reformed man now. Now he has returned to his first love- Golf- with a bang and has proved his uniqueness in Golf once more. Well done Tiger Woods.

WEEKLY NEWS ROUNDUP

REGIONAL

Akkitham

Mahakavi (Great Poet) Akkitham celebrated his 84th birthday on March 20, 2010 at Kumaranalloor in the presence of his well-wishers in the Malayalam literary world like Jnanapith Award winner M.T.Vasudevan Nair, Artist Namboodiri, poet Alangode Leela Krishnan, P.T.Narendra Menon, Prof. M.Leelavathi to name a few. To the man who is blessed with the rare credit of witnessing one thousand full moons, the Kerala cultural scene were united in paying rich tributes. His masterpiece “Irupatham Noottandinte Ithihasam” (The Legend of Twentieth Century) won him laurels across the literary world. Akkitham’s works are a fountain of love and peace to the entire humanity. Let us offer him a long life of creativity which he has had in abundance throughout his life.

New Kerala Chief Justice takes charge

Soon after the retirement of Justice S.R.Banoormatt, the great man who helped in paving the way for dispensing justice without fear or favour Justice Justi Chelameswar was sworn in as Chief Justice of Kerala High Court who was serving at Guwahati High Court previously. The oath of office was served by Governor R.S.Gavai and a few dignitaries at Thiruvananthapuram Justice Justi Chelameswar hails from our neighbouring State of Andhra Pradesh.

Kodungalloor Meena-Bharani observed

The annual “Kavutheendal” ceremony was observed at Sri Kurumbakavu Bhagavathi temple, Kodungalloor with religious fervour and devotion by devotees this year also. The oracles (Velichapads) shaking the swords violently and menacingly performed the sacred ceremony before the presiding deity. Inebriated with Bhakthi, the devotees dressed in red-robes invoking the name of Devi reaching upto a crescendo, even go to the extent of bruising themselves with the swords in their hands to satisfy the all-powerful Goddess. A customary ritual mostly by the Dalits to celebrate the important day when the Dalits of yore got permission to enter the temple premises for the first time to perform their religious rites before the deity.

NATIONAL

BJP national leadership under the new President Nitin Gadkari is a new ‘avatar’ (incarnation) with prominence given to glamorous figures like Hema Malini, Smriti Irani, Kiran Kher, Vijay Raj Scindia, Varun Gandhi - almost 33 percent posts allotted to women- setting an example to other parties which also preach prominence be given to the opposite gender in all walks of life obviously to ‘empower’ them. Whether the new look Gadkari has given to his Party would result in change of heart among the masses remains to be seen. However the new team could create ripples across a small section of gentlemen in the Party for not giving positions of importance with the indomitable erstwhile Bollywood product Shatrugnan Sinha giving vent to his anger inviting Gadkari’s wrath who stands firm in his decision. The young President took the opportunity on learning about the outbursts of Mr.Sinha reminded the unhappy ones not to go to the media but to lodge their complaints to the top leadership ie; Mr.Gadkari himself.

Narendra Modi defies SIT summons

The SC (Supreme Court) appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) summons to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to appear before it on 21st March 2010 has met with no response from Mr.Modi. It is reported that Mr. Modi has not cared to appear before the team headed by R.K.Raghavan. It seems he is busy holding consultations with legal experts to move against the summons issued by the Investigation Team. Supreme Court constituted the team in response to an appeal filed by Zakia Jaffree, the widow of former MP Ehsan Jaffree in the Baroda Housing Colony massacre leading to the gruesome deaths of 59 inhabitants including Mr. Ehsan Jaffree in February 26, 2008.

No wheat export this year

Food and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar declared last week the Government has decided not to export wheat this year. The rise in prices of essential commodities and food items must have prompted his Ministry not to go for the wheat export.

In the meanwhile I happened to watch a shocking and painful news item in an English TV News Channel wheat getting rot weighing upto tens of thousands of tons while about half the population of India is within the grip of famine and death due to food scarcity. Imagine the plight of those teeming millions suffering from hunger, malnutrition and extreme poverty, at one end of the country the invaluable food items are going rot due to the criminal negligence of those in the halls of power. Our food Minister was seen lamenting before the media his ignorance of such pathetic state of affairs ie; that tons of wheat going rot in the go-downs.

Road Safety bill

At a time India is among the list of 10 nations on the matter of road accident deaths according to Global status report on Road Safety released by United Nations with the intention of bringing the casualty figures to the minimum, ‘Road Safety Bill 2010’ is set to be introduced in the current session of Parliament. A number of welcome suggestions have been included in the bill and in the course of discussions let us hope for more innovative suggestions by the MPs. According to World Health Organisation (WHO) report - out of the 1.3 million casualties from road accidents reported from across the world 60 percent of the casualties occur in India. Imagine the alarming plight of the lack of infrastructure facilities on the one side and steep rise in the number of new vehicles entering the dilapidated roads on the other side.

Nirupama Subramaniam’s successful completion of assignment in Pak

Nirupama Subramaniam after successful completion of her 4 year assignment as Correspondent of National daily ‘The Hindu’ has returned to India with mixed feelings. Braving all dangers and obstacles in the course of her assignment like assassinations, (she was very much present at a few feet away from the venue Former PM Benazir Bhutto was gunned down by terrorists in the run-up to the previous elections) constant verbal altercations among the various political parties, protest demonstrations, frequent bomb blasts leading to deaths of innocents and damage of property, various power centres, terror outfits, a nation called the world over as the epicenter of terrorism, she was sad to leave her friends who were sincere, loving and helpful in her performance of her professional obligations. She even recalls the touching words of Pak President Asif Ali Zardari: “There is an Indian in every Pakistani and there is a Pakistani in every Indian” and to her delight and excitement she could very well fathom the depths of those words while interacting with the fellow Pakistanis. To her sorrow and grief she came to a touching conclusion that the enmity prevails between the political leaders of the respective nations and that the citizens of both nations always hope for friendly relations, constant contacts and reunion. To fulfill this long-cherished dream the common citizens will have to come to the fore thereby heralding a happy dawn. It is worthwhile to mention here that she was awarded several times for the best correspondent for in-depth reporting from across the border.

Sustainable Ecological resolutions

While inaugurating the first Lawrence Picking Memorial at Chennai, Robert Jenson, Professor, School of Journalism, Texas dwelt on the need for Sustainable Ecological Resolutions instead of going mad after technology for the range of the moment progress in the development of a country. Such unwarranted obsession with technological development without taking care of sustainable ecology will ultimately lead to disastrous consequences.

Lawrence Picking who was a Faculty at the Asian College of Journalism for a short span passed away recently and the occasion was exclusively devoted to commemorate him thus offering homage to a distinguished Journalist and Teacher who imparted innovative ideas among the ACJ students. N.Ram, Editor-in-Chief- ‘The Hindu’-, Sasi Kumar, Media Foundation Chairman and other distinguished persons took part in the memorial inauguration.

In the course of his speech Robert Jenson took umbrage at “Paid News Syndrome” and stressed in no uncertain terms that it was not in anyway connected with Professional Journalism. He exhorted the audience who listened to him in rapt attention the importance of upholding values and ethics in Professional Journalism.

Anna- Life and times of C.N.Annadurai

Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Minister of State for External Affairs released a biography authored by R.Kannan titled “Anna- The life and times of C.N.Annadurai” by handing over to K.Madhavan , the then Minister in Annadurai’s cabinet. N.Ram, Editor-in-Chief, The Hindu, was also present on the occasion. Anna’s contribution to Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu and his relentless fight for the Dravidian movement could put an end to decades of Congress rule even outshining the former congress icon K.Kamaraj.

INTERNATIONAL

In a few weeks from now, Britain will go to polls. For Gordon Brown, Prime Minister and leader of Labour Party it will surely be an uphill task in the face of increasing discontent among the electorate to reach 10 Downing Street this time. The Iraq blunder unnecessarily committed by his predecessor Tony Blair and Mr.Brown’s collusion with the Blair decision, pushed both of them into a tight corner. Blair facing the ire of his New Labour Party comrades had to bow out, paving the way for his bete noire Gordon Brown, then Chancellor of Exchequer also is not popular with the masses. Blair’s deposition before the Chilcot Inquiry committee displaying no remorse for his decision to fight against Iraq, and the subsequent appearance of Mr.Brown before the committee and his not-so-sincere apology for the lapses have not gone down well with the electorate. The Conservative Party under David Cameroon is nursing hopes of a come-back this time around after long period in hibernation the confidence with which he moved on earlier is not in sight now. A hung Parliament might be a possibility this time.

Turmoil in Thailand

Thailand is still simmering. Abhisit Vejjaviva the incumbent Prime Minister despite massive protests unleashed by the supporters of the deposed Prime Minister who was shown the door by the Monarch years back is adamant. Thakshin Shinawatra alleged to have been a corrupt head of State however enjoys massive support in Thailand. The man with a remote in hand seems like controlling the destiny of a country.

Court-Martial of Sarath Foneska

Retired General Sarath Fonseka who unsuccessfully contested against Mahinda Rajpaksa later charged with conspiring against the government and subsequently imprisoned was sentenced to undergo Court-Martial. The Court-Martial proceedings began on Tuesday.

Girija Prasad Koirala no more

Girija Prasad Koirala, the four time Prime Minister of Nepal is dead at the age of 85. He was suffering from respiratory troubles and was under treatment for the last few years. He fought against autocracy, weathered challenges, feuding political parties, which ultimately led the formation of Nepali Communisty Party (Maoist) causing anarchy for decades and tirelessly tried to bring them into the mainstream. A good friend of India throughout his life, his death is a great loss to India.

Quartet call to Israel

U.N. Secretary General, Ban-Ki-Moon, US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, European Commission Envoy and Russian leaders urged Israel to stop building settlements in East Jerusalem and West Bank to bring about a “lasting solution” to the enmity between Israel and Palestine. Israel in no mood to oblige the Quartet call and continues with its resettlement plans.

SPORTS

IPL
Of late, bringing cheers to the cricket lovers of Kerala and Pune, two more teams have been included among the list of IPL 2011. Sahara group purchased for US $ 370 million and Rendzevous group came up with US $ 333.3 million.
In today’s match held at Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, Mumbai Indians defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 7 wickets.

WEEKLY NEWS ROUNDUP

REGIONAL

Akkitham

Mahakavi (Great Poet) Akkitham celebrated his 84th birthday on March 20, 2010 at Kumaranalloor in the presence of his well-wishers in the Malayalam literary world like Jnanapith Award winner M.T.Vasudevan Nair, Artist Namboodiri, poet Alangode Leela Krishnan, P.T.Narendra Menon, Prof. M.Leelavathi to name a few. To the man who is blessed with the rare credit of witnessing one thousand full moons, the Kerala cultural scene were united in paying rich tributes. His masterpiece “Irupatham Noottandinte Ithihasam” (The Legend of Twentieth Century) won him laurels across the literary world. Akkitham’s works are a fountain of love and peace to the entire humanity. Let us offer him a long life of creativity which he has had in abundance throughout his life.

New Kerala Chief Justice takes charge

Soon after the retirement of Justice S.R.Banoormatt, the great man who helped in paving the way for dispensing justice without fear or favour Justice Justi Chelameswar was sworn in as Chief Justice of Kerala High Court who was serving at Guwahati High Court previously. The oath of office was served by Governor R.S.Gavai and a few dignitaries at Thiruvananthapuram Justice Justi Chelameswar hails from our neighbouring State of Andhra Pradesh.

Kodungalloor Meena-Bharani observed

The annual “Kavutheendal” ceremony was observed at Sri Kurumbakavu Bhagavathi temple, Kodungalloor with religious fervour and devotion by devotees this year also. The oracles (Velichapads) shaking the swords violently and menacingly performed the sacred ceremony before the presiding deity. Inebriated with Bhakthi, the devotees dressed in red-robes evoking the name of Devi reaching upto a crescendo, even go to the extent of bruising themselves with the swords in their hands to satisfy the all-powerful Goddess. A customary ritual mostly by the Dalits to celebrate the important day when the Dalits of yore got permission to enter the temple premises for the first time to perform their religious rites before the deity.

NATIONAL

BJP national leadership under the new President Nitin Gadkari is a new ‘avatar’ (incarnation) with prominence given to glamorous figures like Hema Malini, Smriti Irani, Kiran Kher, Vijay Raj Scindia, Varun Gandhi - almost 33 percent posts allotted to women- setting an example to other parties which also preach prominence be given to the opposite gender in all walks of life obviously to ‘empower’ them. Whether the new look Gadkari has given to his Party would result in change of heart among the masses remains to be seen. However the new team could create ripples across a small section of gentlemen in the Party for not giving positions of importance with the indomitable erstwhile Bollywood product Shatrugnan Sinha giving vent to his anger inviting Gadkari’s wrath who stands firm in his decision. The young President took the opportunity on learning about the outbursts of Mr.Sinha reminded the unhappy ones not to go to the media but to lodge their complaints to the top leadership ie; Mr.Gadkari himself.

Narendra Modi defies SIT summons

The SC (Supreme Court) appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) summons to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to appear before it on 21st March 2010 has met with no response from Mr.Modi. It is reported that Mr. Modi has not cared to appear before the team headed by R.K.Raghavan. It seems he is busy holding consultations with legal experts to move against the summons issued by the Investigation Team. Supreme Court constituted the team in response to an appeal filed by Zakia Jaffree, the widow of former MP Ehsan Jaffree in the Baroda Housing Colony massacre leading to the gruesome deaths of 59 inhabitants including Mr. Ehsan Jaffree in February 26, 2008.

No wheat export this year

Food and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar declared last week the Government has decided not to export wheat this year. The rise in prices of essential commodities and food items must have prompted his Ministry not to go for the wheat export.

In the meanwhile I happened to watch a shocking and painful news item in an English TV News Channel wheat getting rot weighing upto tens of thousands of tons while about half the population of India is within the grip of famine and death due to food scarcity. Imagine the plight of those teeming millions suffering from hunger, malnutrition and extreme poverty, at one end of the country the invaluable food items are going rot due to the criminal negligence of those in the halls of power. Our food Minister was seen lamenting before the media his ignorance of such pathetic state of affairs ie; that tons of wheat going rot in the go-downs.

Road Safety bill

At a time India is among the list of 10 nations on the matter of road accident deaths according to Global status report on Road Safety released by United Nations with the intention of bringing the casualty figures to the minimum, ‘Road Safety Bill 2010’ is set to be introduced in the current session of Parliament. A number of welcome suggestions have been included in the bill and in the course of discussions let us hope for more innovative suggestions by the MPs. According to World Health Organisation (WHO) report - out of the 1.3 million casualties from road accidents reported from across the world 60 percent of the casualties occur in India. Imagine the alarming plight of the lack of infrastructure facilities on the one side and steep rise in the number of new vehicles entering the dilapidated roads on the other side.

Nirupama Subramaniam’s successful completion of assignment in Pak

Nirupama Subramaniam after successful completion of her 4 year assignment as Correspondent of National daily ‘The Hindu’ has returned to India with mixed feelings. Braving all dangers and obstacles in the course of her assignment like assassinations, (she was very much present at a few feet away from the venue Former PM Benazir Bhutto was gunned down by terrorists in the run-up to the previous elections) constant verbal altercations among the various political parties, protest demonstrations, frequent bomb blasts leading to deaths of innocents and damage of property, various power centres, terror outfits, a nation called the world over as the epicenter of terrorism, she was sad to leave her friends who were sincere, loving and helpful in her performance of her professional obligations. She even recalls the touching words of Pak President Asif Ali Zardari: “There is an Indian in every Pakistani and there is a Pakistani in every Indian” and to her delight and excitement she could very well fathom the depths of those words while interacting with the fellow Pakistanis. To her sorrow and grief she came to a touching conclusion that the enmity prevails between the political leaders of the respective nations and that the citizens of both nations always hope for friendly relations, constant contacts and reunion. To fulfill this long-cherished dream the common citizens will have to come to the fore thereby heralding a happy dawn. It is worthwhile to mention here that she was awarded several times for the best correspondent for in-depth reporting from across the border.

Sustainable Ecological resolutions

While inaugurating the first Lawrence Picking Memorial at Chennai, Robert Jenson, Professor, School of Journalism, Texas dwelt on the need for Sustainable Ecological Resolutions instead of going mad after technology for the range of the moment progress in the development of a country. Such unwarranted obsession with technological development without taking care of sustainable ecology will ultimately lead to disastrous consequences.

Lawrence Picking who was a Faculty at the Asian College of Journalism for a short span passed away recently and the occasion was exclusively devoted to commemorate him thus offering homage to a distinguished Journalist and Teacher who imparted innovative ideas among the ACJ students. N.Ram, Editor-in-Chief- ‘The Hindu’-, Sasi Kumar, Media Foundation Chairman and other distinguished persons took part in the memorial inauguration.

In the course of his speech Robert Jenson took umbrage at “Paid News Syndrome” and stressed in no uncertain terms that it was not in anyway connected with Professional Journalism. He exhorted the audience who listened to him in rapt attention the importance of upholding values and ethics in Professional Journalism.

Anna- Life and times of C.N.Annadurai

Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Minister of State for External Affairs released a biography authored by R.Kannan titled “Anna- The life and times of C.N.Annadurai” by handing over to K.Madhavan , the then Minister in Annadurai’s cabinet. N.Ram, Editor-in-Chief, The Hindu, was also present on the occasion. Anna’s contribution to Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu and his relentless fight for the Dravidian movement could put an end to decades of Congress rule even outshining the former congress icon K.Kamaraj.

INTERNATIONAL

In a few weeks from now, Britain will go to polls. For Gordon Brown, Prime Minister and leader of Labour Party it will surely be an uphill task in the face of increasing discontent among the electorate to reach 10 Downing Street this time. The Iraq blunder unnecessarily committed by his predecessor Tony Blair and Mr.Brown’s collusion with the Blair decision, pushed both of them into a tight corner. Blair facing the ire of his New Labour Party comrades had to bow out, paving the way for his bete noire Gordon Brown, then Chancellor of Exchequer also is not popular with the masses. Blair’s deposition before the Chilcot Inquiry committee displaying no remorse for his decision to fight against Iraq, and the subsequent appearance of Mr.Brown before the committee and his not-so-sincere apology for the lapses have not gone down well with the electorate. The Conservative Party under David Cameroon is nursing hopes of a come-back this time around after long period in hibernation the confidence with which he moved on earlier is not in sight now. A hung Parliament might be a possibility this time.

Turmoil in Thailand

Thailand is still simmering. Abhisit Vejjaviva the incumbent Prime Minister despite massive protests unleashed by the supporters of the deposed Prime Minister who was shown the door by the Monarch years back is adamant. Thakshin Shinawatra alleged to have been a corrupt head of State however enjoys massive support in Thailand. The man with a remote in hand seems like controlling the destiny of a country.

Court-Martial of Sarath Foneska

Retired General Sarath Fonseka who unsuccessfully contested against Mahinda Rajpaksa later charged with conspiring against the government and subsequently imprisoned was sentenced to undergo Court-Martial. The Court-Martial proceedings began on Tuesday.

Girija Prasad Koirala no more

Girija Prasad Koirala, the four time Prime Minister of Nepal is dead at the age of 85. He was suffering from respiratory troubles and was under treatment for the last few years. He fought against autocracy, weathered challenges, feuding political parties, which ultimately led the formation of Nepali Communisty Party (Maoist) causing anarchy for decades and tirelessly tried to bring them into the mainstream. A good friend of India throughout his life, his death is a great loss to India.

Quartet call to Israel

U.N. Secretary General, Ban-Ki-Moon, US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, European Commission Envoy and Russian leaders urged Israel to stop building settlements in East Jerusalem and West Bank to bring about a “lasting solution” to the enmity between Israel and Palestine. Israel in no mood to oblige the Quartet call and continues with its resettlement plans.

SPORTS

IPL
Of late, bringing cheers to the cricket lovers of Kerala and Pune, two more teams have been included among the list of IPL 2011. Sahara group purchased for US $ 370 million and Rendzevous group came up with US $ 333.3 million.
In today’s match held at Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, Mumbai Indians defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 7 wickets.

WEEKLY NEWS ROUNDUP

NATIONAL

Indo-Pak Dialogue

The dawn of February 25 was as usual in New Delhi. Hyderabad House was all welcome to a ‘historic’ meeting of minds. Smiles, warm hand-shakes, “gritty charm, chai, samosas” ( Courtesy : Sherry Rehman, Leader- Pakistan Peoples’ Party) aplenty. Good.

Nirupama Rao and her team on one side of the table with three dossiers prepared by Ministry of Home Affairs for the scrutiny of Pak Foreign ministry and Salman Bashir, Pak Foreign Secretary in a serious but smiling face and his team on the other side.

Both already briefed by their respective higher-ups, the talks went on smoothly.

Her inherent diplomatic approach, notwithstanding, mincing no words wanted Pakistan to curb the terrorists crossing from across the border first and then “let’s proceed on with composite dialogue process” to discuss the “core issue” of Jammu&Kashmir threadbare.

Salman Bashir wanted all issues terrorism included to be bracketed with composite dialogue process so as to enable both nations to discuss the “core issue” of Jammu& Kashmir to be discussed straight away. Both stuck to their respective stands albeit with smiling faces.

Both sides held separate press conferences as was decided earlier and made known their respective stands already known to the media as also common citizens. But the dialogue must go on and on and on.

Pakistan’s Kashmir ‘fixation’ dates back to 1947 itself ie. after partition. Then there were no terrorists or in the words of General (Retd) Pervez Mushara ‘freedom fighters’ anywhere in the picture.

But three major wars fought by successive rulers of Pakistan against India leading to casualties on both sides over the issue of J&K resulting in much bloodshed.

Terrorists appeared on the seen later, first appreciated and encouraged by Pak governments provided with logistical supports and massive funds. The successive rulers of Pak governments rejoiced over the capacity of these elements for striking at will anywhere in J&K as also the whole of India.

This Kashmir ‘fixation’ of Pak rulers proved detrimental to themselves in the long run and they continue to pay dearly for the nefarious activities of the so-called ‘freedom fighters’. Now the whole nation has turned into a ‘towering inferno’ and the rulers go on lamenting over their helplessness to rein in these lethal elements - just think of the enormity of destruction of properties, loss of lives, even former PM Benazir Bhutto fell victim to the machinations of hard-core terrorists like Tehreek-E-Taliban, Huji, LeT and other such accursed beings. If one is of the opinion that Pakistan faces extinction on account of these Frankenstein monsters how is it possible to blame him but that is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

If Pakistan from the very outset had shed its Kashmir ‘fixation’ and its rulers concentrated more on the development and prosperity of the country, it would have become a powerful nation by now. Instead it has termed out to be the hot-bed of terrorism in the eyes of whole world.

The Afghanistan Imbroglio- India suffers Casualties

It was the third time Taliban militants had launched two suicide bombings killing in the process six Indians along with citizens of other nationalities including an Italian Diplomat. While the US and Afghan forces were loudly making tall claims about their renewed surge inflicting massive losses to the terror elements in Marjah in the Helmund provinces, they were taken aback by the two separated suicide bomb attacks killing almost 17 at the very heart of Kabul, the Afghan capital.

Reports streaming in from various sources point to the unlimited civilian casualties in the North-West Frontier Province. No end in sight for a breakthrough in the near future. Innocents for no fault of theirs’ always bore the brunt of all wars and violence, be it anywhere.

Maoists Cease-fire Offer

Reciprocating Home Minister P.Chidambaram’s offer of a 72 hour cease-fire against the Maoists. Maoist leader Kishenji has responded with a 72 days cease-fire. Who is actually more peace-loving- Chidambaramji or Kishenji? I am being more and more confused.

Mobilization, consolidation, tactical approach what not a variety of interpretations from media community.

Vasundhara Raje Resigns

Vasundhara Raje, former CM and now opposition leader in Rajasthan Assembly has in the end, ‘royally relented’ and vacated her prestigious post. Whether her ‘royal step’ is in deference to the wishes or dictates of BJP President the ‘indomitable’ Nitin Gadkari, sorry no idea.

Beheading of Two Sikhs in Pakistan

The whole country cried in anguish and deplored the barbaric beheading of two Sikhs by Taliban militants in Pakistan. The Sikh community and the whole India and Sikhs elsewhere went into a shock and rage over this blood-chilling act.

Railway Budget

The news of fund crunch in the Railway Ministry couldn’t deter an irrepressible Mamata Banerji in presenting a people-friendly Railway Budget in Parliament on Feb 24th. Train fares and freight charges remain untouched. Though she went soft on her Home State that is not a crime Mamata took care to meet the needs of other States also though to a lesser extent. Elections are round the corner in West Bengal and she feels like Writers Building beckoning her at least in the coming elections. Whether her long-cherished dream would fructify we have to wait and watch.

Parliament Budget

Another great son of West Bengal Pranab Kumar Mukherji without departing from his previous style as Finance Minister under different Prime Ministers presented the General Budget- a pragmatic one- it is his forte amidst protests as also applauses by opposition and ruling benches over certain issues respectively.

Giving the right hand and taking by the other hand he has done a balancing act. The decision to hike the petroleum prices evoked sharp protests in Parliament leading to lightnings and thunder showers opposition members and some of the UPA allies trooping to the well of Parliament demanding roll-back of prices and then an unprecedented walk-out by them, the great man stood firm and had a difficult time shouting down the irate members. He was seen and heard “this is a constitutional requirement and you can’t stop me” and the unstoppable Minister went on with his duty. Nice.

The bottom-line remains bottom-line, it will continue to be so. They can go out into the streets with begging bowls.

Murli Deora, this time happy, he can sit pretty well with a broad smile for having passed the buck to the FM.

Industry sector rejoice as usual as they have got what they expected from the FM. The farm sector and the social sector need be satisfied with a nominal fund earmarked for their ‘welfare’. Let Lord Indra listen to his prayers for a fast recovery.

Qatar Nationality to M.F.Hussain

The artists and the cultural personalities heard with shock the conferment of Qatar Nationality upon M.F.Hussain, the world famous painter who is 95 now. He had to leave India after suffering humiliations and threat from Hindu fundamentalists for depicting Hindu Godessess in the ‘nude’ which the Hindutva elements found an insult to Hindus. A self-imposed exile in a Gulf country culminating in conferment of that country’s nationality upon him sent shock waves and anger amongst the Indian artistic community.

At least the Government should show the courtesy of honoring him with “Overseas Indian Citizenship” at least.

INTERNATIONAL

Iraq elections are scheduled for March 7. Ahead of the elections, media-world and political commentators are busy weighing the prospects of various alliances. The incumbent Noori-Al-Maliki’s alliance this time faces a tough challenge ahead due to the anti-incumbency factor, wide-spread corruption and intermittent violence. The Iraqi National Alliance under Shiite leader Muktada-Al-Sadr faction of Shiites and a few religious organizations combinedly fight against Al-Maliki’s alliance. Sadr faction is Pro-Iran, they want an early exit of US troops from Iraq and end rampant corruption. Await.

Victor Yanukovich Sworn-in

Victor Yanukovich, the pro-Russian newly elected leader of Ukraine took oath as the next ruler of Ukraine. Being a Pro-Russian, Russian rulers Dmitry Medvede and Vladimir Putin are upbeat. So is Yanukovich.

REGIONAL

Kerala Assembly’s budget session has started. Finance Minister, Dr.Thomas Isaac is busy with his budget preparation exercise. The celebration of the fourth anniversary of the government and the impending assembly elections might lead to more populist measures in the budget eyeing the vote-bank.

Temple Festivals

Annual Attukal Pongala festival which is already in the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest congregation of women devotees to offer pongalas with religious fervour and devotion for attaining profuse blessings of presiding Deity at Attukal temple to remain ‘Deergha Sumanagalies’ ( a happy and prosperous prolonged married life) throughout their lives gathered before Attukal Devi this time also.
Annual ‘Makam Thozhal’ festival at Chottanikkara was also celebrated by the women devotees on the auspicious day of Makam, Devi’s star being Makam has a special significance. Those who pray to Devi on this auspicious day are believed to be blessed with a life-long married life and marital bliss.

Annual Guruvayoor Temple festival has begun. The ‘Kodiyettam’ (Flag-hoisting) and the customary annual ‘Aanayottam’ (Elephant race) conducted with much religious fervour and devotion.

In Kerala this is festival season. Places of worship - temples and churches - are in a festive mood with devotees thronging before the presiding deities and pray to their heart’s content, pouring out their sorrows with tears streaming down their cheeks and seek their blessings with folded palms.

LITERATURE

Salman Rushdie, writer of international repute and Booker of Booker Prizes Winner has stepped into a world of penning his experiences while in hiding to escape from the “fatwa” (death-warrant) issued by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini for writing a novel, “The Satanic Verses” in which he is alleged to have cast aspersions on the prophet.

Malayalam Film Industry

It seems Malayalam film industry has no way out of the quagmire of mud-slinging against each other, the dog-fights, a daily routine forgetting the precious as also the culture-rejuvinating role of films. Personal animosities and washing the dirty linen in public surpass all decencies. Super, Super-Duper, Mega and what not? We the film-goers need to shame a part of the blame for keeping in our hearts larger than life pictures of some “pigmies”. It is actually our fault.

SPORTS

Sachin atop the world

Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar has once again proved his towering presence in the world of cricket. In the Gwalior One Day against South Africa, the master batsman with a 200 not out the first time ever in One Day Cricket surpassing the previous records set by Saeed Anwar of Pakistan, 194 and Charles Coventry of Zimbabwe, 194 has gained the profuse applause and approval of the world. Let him have the stamina and will-power to scale new heights in future.

Hockey

In the Hero Honda World Cup Hockey match India has got off to a flying start by defeating Pakistan 4-1.