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The South Asian Times

e x c e l l e n c e i n j o u r n a l i s m
Vol.9 No. 45 March 11-17, 2017 80 Cents New York Edition Follow us on TheSouthAsianTimes.info

White House rules


BJP ahead but to fall out wholesale
short of majority in UP replacement of
Obamacare
Exit polls show Congress, AAP neck to neck in Punjab
Congress is rushing through
New Delhi: Prime Minister the new healthcare bill
Narendra Modi's campaigning
Washington: President Trump will
has helped BJP get well ahead of
not be receptive to a wholesale
rivals in the election in the coun
replacement of Republicans cur
try's most populous state, Uttar
rent proposed healthcare bill, a
Pradesh, but may fall short of an
White House of ficial speaking on
absolute majority, four major exit
background told The Daily Caller.
polls showed on Thursday.
The official said the White House Americans for Refugees and Immigrants joined Indians at a vigil in
Victory for BJP in UP would
wasnt entirely surprised when con Bellevue, Washington, on Sunday in honor of Srinivas Kuchibhotla, a
boost Modis chances of winning
the 2019 general election and
servative political groups like software engineer shot and killed two weeks ago in Kansas. (Photo : AFP)
Heritage Action, Americans for
underscore his popularity. The
PM would also see success as vin
dication of his sudden decision in
November to abolish high
denomination banknotes to rein
PM Modi was face of the BJP
campaign in UP and a good
showing there will boost his
chances of winning the 2019
Prosperity and Club for Growth
came out against the American
Continued on page 4 India strongly
general election. India-Pak conflict could
takes up hate
in corruption. The BJP would
(Photo courtesy Mint)
need to win 202 seats to secure a
majority in the 403seat UP NDTV, ahead of an alliance
turn nuclear: US General
between the ruling Samajwadi Washington: A significant conven
assembly in Uttar Pradesh, where
Party and the Congress party tional conflict between Pakistan
voting ended on Wednesday. The
BJP would win 179 seats, accord
ing to an average of four exit
polls compiled by news channel
that is seen picking up 136 seats.
In Punjab, exit polls showed a
Continued on page 4
and India could escalate into a
nuclear exchange, a top American
general warned on Thursday.
Testifying before powerful Senate
attacks issue
Here's What Exit Polls Show Armed Services Committee, General
Joseph Votel, Commander of the US
Central Command or CETCOM, said
there is continued ongoing tensions
between Pakistan and India.
with US
India remains concerned about
Outrage in India and in Parliament
the lack of action against India follows safety concerns among
focused militants based in Pakistan
Continued on page 4 Indians in America.
New Delhi: India raised the killing was conveyed by US officials dur
of Indian engineer Srinivas ing his talks in Washington that
Kuchibhotla in a hate attack in the Feb 22 attack on Kuchibhotla
Kansas with US authorities in very and his friend was an individual
strong terms, a top official said on case.
Thursday, adding that the security Baglay said that the Indian
of Indians and persons of Indian Consulate reached out to the fami
origin is a matter of serious con lies of Kuchibhotla and Alok
cern for Delhi. Madasani, who was injured, and
On a day the issue was raised in also to the family of a Sikh, Deep
a big way in Parliament, and Home Rai, a US citizen, who was injured
Minister Rajnath Singh assured in a hate attack in Kent
MPs that the government is taking (Washington state) last week.
the issue very seriously, External Continued on page 4
Affairs Ministry spokesperson
Indo American Press Club inaugurated its executive committee for year 2017 on March 4 in Hicksville, NY, SEE RELATED STORIES AND
Gopal Baglay said in a briefing that
and felicitated Padma Shri HR Shah in the presence of dignitaries & community leaders. See story on page 15. OPEDS ON PAGES 811.
Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar

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TheSouthAsianTimes.info TRISTATE COMMUNITY March 11-17, 2017 3

New AIA team installed White House has a


"very positive view" of
IndoUS ties: Jaishankar

AIA executive committee members posing with Amb. Riva Ganguly Das and NYC Comptroller Scott
Stringer; (right) President Gobind Munjal stressed AIAs Desi Next program for the younger generation.
New York: The Association of Executive Committee members shared AIAs achievement such as
Indians in America (AIA), New were sworn in: Vice Presidents: obtaining the minority status and
York Chapter, known for holding Harish T hakkar, Dr Bal Gilja, the inclusion in the census.
the annual Deepavali Festival, a Gitanjli Anand, Dr Jagdish Gupta; Mr. Munjal laid down his vision
major New York calendar event, MembersAtLarge: Gobind for expanding the youth pro
held the Inauguration / Oath Bathija, Asmita Bhatia, Vinod grams and stressed the need for Indian Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
Ceremony of the newly elected Chand, Indu Gajwani, Jyoti Gupta, membership drive for the youths Washington: T he Trump started under the previous Obama
20172018 Executive Committee Usha Kapoor, Beena Kothari, and get them involved. He Administration has a "very positive administration, would be held later
at the Consulate General of India Deepika Modi, Sudeep Jay Modi, expressed his commitment to view" of the IndoUS relationship and this year.
here. The ceremony was graced Beenu Sabharwal, Nina Sahani, upholding AIAs objective of a lot of interest in taking the ties for Dates were being worked out for the
by Consul General of India, Shyam Gajwani, Divya Shah, Indian Heritage, American ward, Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar India visit of Secretary of State Rex
Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das, as Pushpa Shah, Avinash Suri, Commitment through expanded said after his wideranging talks on Tillerson and Commerce Secretary
chief guest, Deputy Consul Hargovind Gupta, Anita Thakkar programs such as Desi Next, a several issues including H1B visas Wilbur Ross to hold the first India US
General Dr. Manoj Mohapatra, and Swati Vaishnav. forum for the younger genera with top officials in Washington. The Strategic and Commercial Dialogue
NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer, NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer tion, commitment to local philan Foreign secretary said that India con under the Trump administration.
Manhattan Borough President saluted contributions of the thropic projects to serve the veyed to the United States that H1B He termed his visit as very produc
Gale Brewer, Past Presidents of Indian Immigrant community to Indian community, in addition to was a category of trade in services tive and said that the importance of
AIA National & Chapter the City of New York, and empha the continued commitment to the that helps American economy. relationship was conveyed to the
Presidents, community leaders, sized the importance of the diver annual Deepavali Festival with This comes amongst widespread Trump administration. Besides this
media and prominent guests from sity, while presenting the com fireworks at South Street Seaport. concerns regarding skilled Indian India also took up the issues regarding
the tristate area. mendation certificate to AIA. The ceremony was invoked with workers in the US, which have become the safety of Indians in the US, espe
Immediate Past President Mr Manhattan Borough President Ganesh Vandana performed by more serious after the US Citizenship cially against the backdrop of Kansas
Sunil Modi, introduced by Asmita Gail Brewer, a longterm friend of Me lana Krishna of Nritya and Immigration Services said that shooting. The visiting Indian officials,
Bhatia, talked about accomplish AIA, congratulated the team, and Saagaram Dance Academy, and an starting April 3, 2017, it will tem accompanied by the Indian
ments of his 4year Presidency. reinforced her support to the energizing performance by stu porarily suspend premium processing Ambassador to the US, Navtej Sarna,
He expressed his full confidence Indian community, citing exam dents of Nartan Rang Dance for all H1B petitions. This suspension also met the top leadership of the US
that AIAs future under the new ples of her support for the sus Academy of Bharatiya Vidya may last up to 6 months. Jaishankar Congress, including House Speaker
leadership of Mr Gobind Munjal is pension of parking rules during Bhavan after the rendition of told reporters that he is "optimistic" Paul Ryan, House Minority Leader
bright and that the NY Chapter Deepavali. national anthems of USA and about the continuation of the upward Nancy Pelosi, Senate Foreign Relations
will further flourish. Dr. Shashi Shah, National India by Gita Setia, ITV host. The trajectory of the bilateral relationship. Committee Chairman Bob Corker and
The newly elected President President of AIA, which is cele vote of thanks was presented by He added that the IndiaUS Strategic his House counterpart Congressman
Gobind Munjal and the following brating its 50th year, proudly AIA Secretary Vimal Goyal. and Commercial Dialogue, which was Ed Royce.

Air Indias allwomen crew makes


history with roundtheworld ight
San Francisco: Air India says it has Delhi to San Francisco last Monday, ber of the staff from the flight's
become the first airline to fly traveling over the Pacific Ocean. captains to the cabin crew, checkin
around the world with an all The crew completed a mandatory and ground handling staff were
female crew, just ahead of rest period before flying over the women. Even the engineers, who
International Women's Day. Atlantic back to New Delhi, com certified the aircraft, and air traffic
"Air India scripted history by fly pleting the roundtheworld trip. controllers, who cleared its depar Air India's allwomen crew posed for selfies in
ing an allwomen crew flight Smiling members of Air India's ture and arrival, were women, the San Francisco airport last Monday.
around the world," the airline said crew, wearing saris and jackets, company said. women flights scheduled to mark domestic routes to combat inflight
in a statement on Facebook, after posed for selfies in San Francisco An Air India spokesman told CNN International Women's Day on sexual assault. The move came
Flight AI 174 touched back down International Airport last Monday that the airline has applied for a March 8. In another move last after reports that some women
in New Delhi last Friday. before setting off on the final leg of Guinness World Record to mark the month Air India began se lling were being groped by male passen
The Boeing 777 flew from New the trip, CNN reported. Every mem occasion, part of a series of all femaleonly seat sections on its gers.
4 March 11-17, 2017 TURN PAGE TheSouthAsianTimes.info

India strongly takes up drubbing in the 117member IndiaPak conflict could


CHRISTIAN CHARITY: hate attacks issue with US
Continued from page 1
assembly.
The India TodayAxis poll pre
turn nuclear: US General
Continued from page 1

US for solution that You would have also seen the


response of the US authorities,
dicted Congress getting 6271
seats and AAP gett ing 4251
and even responded militarily to
terrorist attacks in Indiaheld ter
seats.
'HONORS INDIA'S LAWS'
beginning with President Trump ritory earlier, Vote l told top
who referred to the Kansas inci It said SADBJP alliance was like American Senators.
dent in his address to the ly to get between 4 to 7 seats and We assess that these types of
Washington: The US says it wants teachings to the children that it Congress. The US Embassy had others two. The India NewsMRC attacks and the potential reactions
Compassion Internat ional, a aids. put out a press release condemn poll predicted AAP and Congress increase the likelihood for miscal
Christian missionary outfit, and "We believe the strategic place ing the Kansas killing. Speaker of getting 55 seats each. culation by both countries, he
the Indian government to find a ment of local churches makes the House has also condemned it, SADBJP has been in power in said.
solution that "honors India's laws." them best suited to address the said the spokesperson, adding the state for the last 10 years, Furthermore, Indias public pol
"We want all parties to be able holistic needs of the children in that there is wide ranging con while the AAP contested assembly icy to diplomatically isolate
to work cooperatively and certain their communities," the mission demnation of such crimes within elections in the state for the first Pakistan hinders any prospects
ly in a way that honors India's ary organiation declares. "And the US. time. for improved relations. This is
laws and also, as I said, in a trans only they can ef fectively deliver This point has also been high The results will be declared on especially troubling as a signifi
parent process and find a way for the Jesusbased teaching and lighted by various prominent US March 11. cant convent ional conflict
ward," Mark Toner, the State wholelife care that children in dignitaries that such crimes do between Pakistan and India could
Department's Act ing poverty deserve." not represent the views of the vast White House rules out escalate into a nuclear exchange,
Spokesperson said Thursday. The missionary organization majority in that country. In fact, wholesale replacement of given that both are nuclear pow
As it is a religious organization, had mounted a campaign in the several senior US dignitaries have Obamacare ers, Votel said.
India had put the Christian group US, corralling members of explicitly mentioned in the recent Continued from page 1 Pakistans increased focus on its
on a list of groups that require Congress to take up its cause and days that Indians are welcome in Health Care Act, expressing hope eastern border detracts from its
prior permission to fund organiza having a House of Representatives the United States, he added. that certain tweaks to the bill efforts to secure the western bor
tions in the country. Foreign Affairs Committee hold a Given the high priority the will win over skeptical conserva der with Afghanistan from incur
Compassion International says hearing on its problems in India. Government attaches to the secu tives, as long as they dont expect sion by Taliban and al Qaeda
on its website that for strategic It has since said that it was rity and wellbeing of Indians and too much. fighters, he pointed out, adding,
reasons it works w ith lo cal winding up its $45 million opera persons of Indian origin abroad, If some of these groups want a security along the western border
churches to provide Christian tions in India. we will continue to remain strong wholesale replacement of the bill, will nevertheless remain a priority
ly engaged with the concerned thats not going to happen, the for Islamabad, as the Pakistani

No arrest or motive authorities wherever required.


Kansas Governor Sam
of ficial cautioned. President
Trump wouldnt be receptive to
military seeks to expand border
control and improve paramilitary
Brownback on Wednesday wrote a that. security.
yet in killing in letter to Prime Minister Narendra
Modi expressing regret over the
Speaker of the House Paul Ryan
staked out a similar position on
Votel sadi that seven of the US
designated 20 terrorist organiza

South Carolina violence against Indians. Thursday, saying the new bill is tions have home in Pakistan. So
Another Indian, Harnish Patel, the closest we will ever get to as long as these groups maintain
was killed in South Carolina 10 repealing and replacing safe haven inside Pakistan they
New York: Although there has expressed puzzlement over the Obamacare.
days ago, but the killing was not will threaten longterm stability in
been no arrest in the killing of motivation for killing of Patel, Some Republican Congressman
identified as a hate crime. Afghanistan, he said.
Harnish Patel in South Carolina one of three attacks in which peo have criticized the proposed bill, Of particular concern is the
state last week, of ficials say ple of Indian origin were victims,
BJP ahead but to fall short calling instead for separate legis Haqqani Network, which poses the
invest ig at ions are making the newspaper reported.
of majority in UP lation that they say more fully greatest threat to coalition forces
progress but they are not sure of "We don't have any direct evi repeals Obamacare. Kentucky Sen.
Continued from page 1 operating in Afghanistan, he said
the motive. The Post and Courier dence that tells us it's an ethnical Rand Paul and House Freedom
tight finish between Congress and adding that to date, the Pakistan
newspaper quoted Lancaster ly mot ivated killing", Doug Caucus member Jim Jordan
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the military and security services have
County Sheriff Barry Faile as say Barfield, a lawyer for the local recently announced plans to intro
assembly polls with two exit polls not taken lasting actions against
ing, "We are making progress on Sheriff's Office told the newspa duce separate healthcare legisla
giving the exact same number of it.
this case." per. "And we don't have anything tion.
seats to the two parties. We have consistently called
The newspaper reported on that tells us it's not." The White House of ficial con
In two other exit polls, Congress upon the Pakistanis to take the
Wednesday that local of ficials "We don't have any graffiti, any ceded that some conservative con
was ahead in one and AAP in the necessary actions to deny terror
said that the State Law antiMuslim or antiIndian graffi cerns about the bill wont be
other, but all the polls predicted ists safe haven and improve secu
Enforcement division was helping ti" scrawled on his front door," he addressed, noting the nature of
that the ruling Akali DalBJP rity in the FATA along the Afghan
with the investigation. An official added. legislative negotiation.
alliance was headed for a huge border region, he said.

Jaipur (India) Bureau IANS Newswire Services


Prakash Bhandari IANS Washington Bureau
Prakash@TheSouthAsianTimes.info Arun Kumar
arun.kumar@ians,in
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TheSouthAsianTimes.info TRISTATE COMMUNITY March 11-17, 2017 5

Bill against outsourcing jobs reintroduced in US Congress


Washington, DC: A bipartisan tres to disclose their locations to lion nationwide. "It is important relocating their call center over
Bill was reintroduced in the US customers, and would require that American workers continue seas where foreign workers are
Congress to make companies them to comply with US con to have access to good service often exposed to dismal labor
that move call centres overseas sumers' request to be transferred sector jobs and receive a livable conditions and paid cheaper
ineligible for grants or guaran to a service agent physically wage," he said. wages, the Congressmen said.
teed loans from the government, located in the US," the two law "Unfortunately, we have seen At the same time, communities
a move aimed at curbing the makers said. call center jobs moved overseas across the country have commit
transfer of jobs to nations like incentivise them to locate in the The legislation is similar to a to India, the Philippines, and ted millions in taxpayer dollars
India. US by creating a public list of bill introduced in 2013 that other countries. This bipartisan to fund incentives for companies
Introduced by Congressmen "bad actors" consisting of those would have required disclosure legislation will protect call center to bring jobs to their neighbor
Gene Green from the Democratic that shipped all or most of their of a call center location to con workers in Texas and throughout hoods, but have been left empty
Party and Republican David service work overseas. sumers, along with the option to the country, and American con handed, they observed.
McKinley, the US Call Center and "Being on the list would make transfer to a domestic call center. sumers from unfair treatment," "Our number one priority in
Consumer Protection Act would these actors ineligible for federal Green said there are 54,000 he added. Congress is protecting and creat
deter companies from shipping g rants or guaranteed loans, call center jobs in the Greater In the last decade, there has ing American jobs," said Mr
American jobs overseas and would require overseas call cen Houston area alone and 2.5 mil been an increase in companies McKinley. (PTI)

Women's empowerment
can increase global
GDP by $12 trillion
Assistant Secretary
General Lakshmi Puri

Marina Budhos being honored with a plaque

NY consulate event commemorates


abolition of indentured labor
Special to South Asian Times India. Such languages as Hindi, so, the IndoGuyanese recalled.
New York: Empowering women theme of 2017's observance is
Bhojpuri, Urdu, Tamil, Telugu and Dr Tyran Ramnarine, also from
to achieve economic equality 'Women in the Changing World
New York: Among dozens of coun Bengali are spoken, aside from Guyana, studied in England and
would "exponentially" increase of Work: Planet 5050 by 2030'
tries where Indian diaspora lives, English, French and Creole, he the US. He worked in NYC
global gross domestic product with the goal of achieving parity
Mauritius has a pride of place. said. Cooli Ghat, which symboli Department of Education and is
(GDP) by at least $12 trillion by that year.
People of Indian origin constitute cally represents Indian indentured currently working on a book
2025, according to Assistant At the current rate of progress,
nearly 70% of the islandnations labor from India, is a landmark in Surviving on a Sugar Estate. He
Secretary General Lakshmi Puri. she said, it would take 170 years
population. At least 50% of them our country. In 1987, it was said the British took over Bengal in
With women's equal participa to achieve pay equality, according
are Hindus. Multiple languages of declared a national monument. 1757 and captured Delhi later.
tion in the economy, world GDP to a World Economic Forum
the subcontinent are spoken in the At the request of IndoGuyanese Well before independence, India
has the potential to even go up to report on gender gap.
country situated in Africa. luminary Pandit Ram Lall, present had a share of 27% in g lobal
$28 trillion, she said Tuesday cit The current pay gap between
The Indian Diaspora Council, a at the event, and others, wealth. Shortly after 1947, it just
ing a study done by the consult women and men is at least 23 per
citybased nonprofit body, organ Lutchoomun delivered a part of his had 3%, the expert pointed out.
ing company, McKinsey, in asso cent and even bigger in many
ized last week an event titled speech in Hindi/Bhojpuri to the T he Indian indentured labor
ciat ion w ith UN Women, the countries, she said.
100th Anniversary surprise of many in the audience. spanned from 1834 through 1917,
international organisation's outfit Women do twothirds of the
Commemoration of Abolition of Professor Marina Bud hos, a when it ended in most Britain
for women's empowerment and world's work in terms of hours,
Indian Indentured Labor at the noted historian and an awardwin ruled countries, including South
equality. yet their global income is only
Consulate General of India. ning writer on the diaspora, was Africa where it was abolished in
The total world GDP is estimat onetenth of men's, she said, with
Vishal Lutchoomun, a represen another important speaker at the 1910. A larger fourday conven
ed to be about $75 trillion. too many hours spent in provid
tative of Mauritius at the UN, March 3 event. My father worked tion in this respect is scheduled to
"We need to make a great leap" ing care and in domestic work.
traced the history of Indians in his here at this consulate shortly after open on March 17 in Trinidad.
to reach that goal of economic Women put in twoandahalf
native land since 1834 and their Indian independence. His actual Another one in New De lhi is
equality by 2030, she said at a times more time in these mostly
inherent bonds with the mother surname was Buddhu, not a great planned next month.
news conference on the eve of unpaid and very underappreciat
land. name. On the suggestion made by Ashook Ramsaran of the diaspo
International Women's Day. To ed tasks than men on a global
We have a vast majority of some, he changed the last name to ra council played a prominent role
focus on economic equality, the average.
Mauritians whose origin is in Budhos and thats how I became in organizing the New York event.
6 March 11-17, 2017 TRISTATE COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

IN BRIEF

Obama shares IndianAmerican Trump renominates Ajit Pai for


woman's 'inspirational' letter second term at FCC
arack Obama has shared an "inspir ative writing and literature for underserved

B ing" letter by a 38yearold Indian


American woman on International
Women's Day, thanking his wife Michelle
children in the community.
"I later found out that the inspirational
powerhouse of a woman who spoke was
P
resident Donald Trump
has nominated Indian
American Ajit Pai to
of immigrants from India, Pai
grew up in Parsons, Kansas.
Appearing before a Congres
serve another term at the sional committee on
for making a difference in her life. Michelle Obama. I wanted to say thank you
powerful Federal Communi Wednesday, Pai said in his
The former US President shared the let to the both of you. Thank you, Michelle, for
cations Commission (FCC). new role as Chairman of Fed
ter in its entirety on 'Medium': "Read to the helping a vulnerable teenager raised to
Soon after becoming the eral Communications Com
end" of the note, he writes, adding "you comply to start to challenge the notion that
President, Trump had desig mission, he looked forward
won't regret it." she was powerless," Sindhu wrote.
nated Pai as acting Chairman to bring digital opportunity
The letter, which was sent to Obama on Sindhu further thanks Michelle for teach
of Federal Communications (FCC). He had to all Americans. "Highspeed Internet ac
January, was written by Sindhu who is a ing by both words and example that the
previously served as Commissioner at FCC. cess, or broadband, is critical to economic
feminist and a mother. She had heard best uses of power and influence are in the
"These dedicated men and women will help opportunity. But there are still too many
Michelle speak in 1996, the Elle.Com re service of others and our community.
me and the rest of the Administration as we parts of this country where broadband is un
ported. "I am now a middleaged Indian woman
continue our work to make America great available or unaffordable," he said. "There is
"I'm proud of Michelle for the difference who is married to an Indian feminist man
again. I am grateful for their willingness to a real and growing digital divide in America.
she made in this young woman's life, and and raising a feminist 3yearold son
serve and honored that they will be joining In wealthier, metropolitan areas, 4G LTE is
I'm inspired by Sindhu's storyso I thought (whose middle name is Atticus and who
my team," Trump said as he announced sev ubiquitous, and gigabit fixed service is ex
I'd share it with you today," Obama pref thinks he is actually Thomas the train.)
eral other key administration posts along panding. But many rural areas are being left
aced Sindhu's letter. They are amazing, she adds.
with Pai. Appointed by Trump's predecessor behind," Pai said in his testimony before the
"One day in Fall 1996, an idealistic 17 "The ways in which you have impacted
Barack Obama, Pai was confirmed unani Senate Commerce, Science and Transporta
yearold Indian girl was inspired while sit the world have left me expecting so much
mously by the Senate in May 2012. The son tion Committee.
ting in a chapel. She didn't remember the more from our world. And I know that this
name of the woman who spoke. But she will is not an expectation I can have without be

Centenary celebration of
never forget the fire that was lit to make ing part of that change. The events from
something of her life, and to use that life to this week, this amazing women's march,
serve others," she wrote. echoed globally that the expectations I
She wrote, that week, she signed up to be
a volunteer at the hospital and signed up
have are not ones I hold in isolation. I want
a different world. I need a different world,"
Osmania University in Chicago
for an afterschool program teaching cre Sindhu wrote. lory of Hyderabad" is organizing Cen Osmania University, with 300,000 stu

G tenary Celebration of Osmania Uni


versity Hyderabad, India on May
dents and 5000 Staff members, is the sev
enth oldest in India and the third oldest in

Bill Gates tribute to 14th at Shalimar Banquets, 280 W. North


Ave, Addison, IL 60101. Prof S. Ramachan
South India. It is a multifaculty and multi
disciplinary university, offering rich and var

IndianAmerican doctor who


dram, Vice Chancellor, Osmania University ied courses in the faculties of Arts, Sciences,
will be the chief guest. Neeta Bhushan, Con Social Sciences, Law, Education, Engineer
sul General of India, Chicago will preside. ing, Technology, Commerce, Management,
died before nishing memoir Hardik Bhatt, CIO, office of the Governor, IL
will be the guest of honor. Glory of Hyder
Informatics, Pharmacy, and Oriental Lan
guages. All Osmanias living in the US and
n IndianAmerican doctor, Paul and highlights other aspects of the book that abad will also present Osmania University & Canada are requested to attend this historic

A Kalanithi has found a new admirer in


Microsoft founder Bill Gates who has
said that he was moved to tears by Kalanthis
drew him to it.I was also drawn in by
Kalanithis eloquent writing...This short book
has so many layers of meaning and so many
Siasat Calligraphy Exhibition during the cel
ebration at 3.00 pm and authentic Hyder
abadi dinner and musical extravaganza.
event, along with their families and friends,
in large numbers. For updates and more in
formation visit www.gloryofhyderabad.org
memoirs, When Breath Becomes Air a interesting juxtapositionslife and death,
poignant tale of a man who was diagnosed patient and doctor, son and father, work and
with stage IV lung cancer in 2013 and
passed away two years later.
family, faith and reason...
Gates is certain that he would pick the
Prince Organization signs White House
Its an amazing book. I was super touched
by itIn fact, I can say this is the best non
book again to read.
I dont know how Kalanithi found the
Equal Pay Pledge on Intl Womens day
fiction story Ive read in a long time... Im physical strength to write this book while he rince Organization, owner, developer department heads in its national organiza
usually not one for tearjerkers about death
and dyingBut this book definitely earned
my admirationand tears, Gates wrote in a
was so debilitated by the disease and then
potent chemotherapy. But Im so glad he
did. Kalanithi, whose wife Lucy is also a doc
P and operator of Hilton, Marriott, Holi
day Inn and other top hotel franchised
brands has taken it upon itself to partner
tion. "If the Declaration of Independence
were being written today in America "Equal
pay" would be enumerated with life, liberty
review of the book. tor, was just 15 months away from being a with the Trump administration by commit and pursuit of happiness as inalienable
Kalanithi died in March 2015 before he trained neurosurgeon when he died. ting to the White House Equal Pay Pledge. rights" Tolani wrote. The organization is at
could finish his book and When Breath Be Kalanithi had degrees in human biology, Prince Organization is highly supportive of the forefront for hiring and promoting
comes Air was published ten months later. English Literature, and history and philoso women in highranking leadership roles women in higher levels of management and
It stayed on the New York Times bestseller phy of science and medicine from Cam where many women have worked their way having a vast diversity in the decisionmak
list for the rest of the year. Gates warns read bridge and Stanford Universities before he up through the ranks from GMs and man ing group helping women with mentoring
ers against being put off by the sad theme graduated from Yale School of Medicine. agers to alltheway to Clevel executives and and other leadership programs.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL COMMUNITY March 11-17, 2017 7

H1B VISA REFORM TO BE PART OF


IMMIGRATION PACKAGE: US TO INDIA
Washington, DC: T he US has of H1B visas. here. "Nevertheless when it is Donald Trump's administration. compet it ive. "If the Trump
assured India that the H1B visas "There was a sense that there is addressed, it would be part of the During their meetings with the Administration's intention is to
issue was not a priority for it and a recognition of the contribution overall immigration package," Ms top administrat ion ofcials, bring back American companies
would be part of the larger immi of the Indian tech sector. Certainly Teotia said. including Commerce Secretary to America and attract more for
gration reforms package that the this is not very much...not a priori Ms Teotia, along with Foreign William Ross, Homeland Security eign investment in America and
new Trump administration is ty of the government. They are Secretary S Jaishankar, is current Secretary John Kelly and with the therefore have more growth in the
working on. The assurance came concerned with the immigration ly in the US meeting top ofcials Congressional leadership, the vis near term, then it was important
amid an ongoing debate in the US issue...most of the issues are quite of the Trump administration and iting Indian ofcials conveyed that growing America remains compet
and reported moves by the Trump dif ferent," visiting Commerce the Congressional leadership. H1B is a "category of trade and itive. So, there would actually be
administration to bring out an Secretary Rita Teot ia told India has been strongly taking services" which actually helps (a) growing need for this partner
executive order to curtail the use reporters at a news conference up the case of H1B visas with the American economy to be more ship," Mr Jaishankar said.

IndianAmerican lawmakers Trump ofce seeks


60 days to respond to
slam new immigration order H4 visa issue
Washington, DC: Prominent Indian
American lawmakers have slammed US Washington, DC: The Trump administration has
President Donald Trump's new executive sought 60 days from a US appeals court to "consider"
travel ban order, saying it "does not make its response in a case challenging Obama govern
US safe" and it "undermines American val ment's decision to allow spouses of H1B visa holders
ues without improving security". to work in the US, putting the jobs of thousands of
The new order, signed privately by Indians at stake.
Trump on Monday, bans immigration The H1B community, which includes a large num
from six Muslimmajority countries, drop ber of Indians, had welcomed the move by the Barack
ping Iraq from the previous order in Obama administration in 2015 to allow H4 visahold
January, and reinstates a temporary blan ers mainly spouses of the H1B visaholders to be
ket ban on all refugees. gainfully employed.
The new measures will block citizens of But the group 'Save Jobs USA' soon took the matter
Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and to the Washington DC appeals court after a district
The new order bans immigration from six Muslimmajority countries, court upheld the Obama administration's decision.
Yemen from obtaining visas for at least dropping Iraq from the previous order in January, and
90 days. The order also suspends admis Now, the Trump administration has sought a 60day
reinstates a temporary blanket ban on all refugees.
sion of refugees into the US for 120 days, suspension in the appeals court proceedings. On
directing US ofcials to improve vetting does not eliminate the need to provide the sion that was struck down by multiple February 1, the Department of Justice led a petition
measures for a programme that is already American people with meaningful evi courts," he said in a statement. in the court titled 'Consent motion to hold proceedings
widely regarded as extremely stringent. dence supporting this ban. The White Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said that in abeyance for 60 days'.
It will go into effect from March 16. House has failed to provide actual justi Trump has been forced to recognize that The Trump administration sought the freeze to
California Senator Kamala Harris blast cation based on facts." his original travel ban was both "unconsti "allow incoming leadership personnel adequate time
ed Trump's order, saying: "This latest Congressman Ro Khanna said: "The tutional" and "ineptly" executed. "The new to consider the issues."
attempt by the Trump administration to Trump Administration's repackaging is order recognizes that we must honor the The "abeyance" in court proceedings has led to con
ban new immigrants and refugees from merely a second attempt to revise his visas of those who already have been cern among H4 visa holders, particularly as Attorney
Muslimmajority countries, like the rst unconstitutional policy." given clearance to come to the US, as well General Jeff Sessions is a known critic of the H1B pro
attempt, undermines our nation's core "This is the same ban, driven by the as excludes legal permanent residents and gram.
values, jeopardizes our national security, same hazardous discrimination that weak dual citizens affected by the ban," she said Immigration Voice announced to intervene in the
and hurts our economy." ens our ability to ght terror. The public in a statement. case for thousands of H4 visaholders, saying this was
"This ban does not keep us safe. It puts and courts rejected the Trump administra "It also excludes Iraq from the list of the the "only option" to protect the rights of its members
American lives at risk," she said. tion's rst attempt at this, and it must do banned countries, another clear sign that and their families, including children who are US citi
"Refugees eeing war and violence, who so again," he said. such a ban would hurt our coalition zens.
have cleared a twoyear vetting process, Democratic US Representative Ami Bera ef forts for peace in the Middle East. It The recent statements from the US government
should not arrive in the United States only also slammed the new order. "My job is to should not have taken the courts and present "an unacceptable risk" for Immigration Voice
to have the doors shut," a report by Times keep our country safe, and this kind of nationwide protests to stop such an order members that the DoJ might decide after 60 days
of San Diego quoted her as saying. ban on trave l does not enhance our from taking effect in the rst place," she against the H4 visa holders.
Harris, an attorney by profession, said national security in fact it makes us less said. "There is nothing for the Department of Justice
ISIS will use the new ban as a recruitment safe." The President was "irresponsible" in attorneys to confer with their leadership about given
tool while "researchers, engineers, aca "This is a bad second attempt at an "throwing" the country into chaos and the District Court's clear decision stating that this case
demics, and entrepreneurs" are turned executive order that is just as un putting fear in the hearts of millions of had no basis for ever being led," said Aman Kapoor,
away. "Omitting one country from the list American and xenophobic as the rst ver families, she added. cofounder of the group.
8 March 11-17, 2017 NATIONAL COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Comptroller Maragos
decries attacks What makes it different this time
}
olitical rhetoric and l By Parveen Chopra
P acts that single out
cy. So, as eminent attorney Ravi Batra says on the
adjoining page, the onus is on President Trump
and discriminate against our days after the horric attacks of 9/11, to call an end to shameful and countryripping
any ethnic
or religious
groups is
F Balbir Singh Sodhi, a 49yearold Sikh, was
gunned down outside the gas station he
owned in Mesa, Arizona. Mistaken to be Muslim
demonic "hate," in favor of our Better Angels that
uplifts us all.
Many of us Indian Americans voted for Trump
unAmerican because of their beards, Sikhs have been the vic last November. Let us now not nd an expression
and must be tims of hate crimes since then, the worst being a worse than basket of deplorables for them. They
condemned. gunman opening re inside a Wisconsin gurd thought and perhaps still think that his trade and
The recent wara in 2012, killing six. taxation policies and $1 trillion in infrastructure
rhetoric by This time, a white guy mistook a darkcomplex spending will be good for the country and better
Nassau County President
ioned Srinivas Kuchibhotla from south India to ment of all Americans. This may still come to
Comptroller AntiTrump placards near the pyre of Srinivas
Trump has be a Middle Eastern and shot him in a bar in pass. That still does nothing to calm down the
George Maragos Kuchibhotla in Hyderabad.
gone too far Olathe, Kansas. Get out my country chant was insecurity among the minorities and people of
and is resulting in acts of hatred echoed days later in Washington state, by a heightened the foreboding. That he himself dal color.
against Indian, Muslim, and Sikh masked white man with a gun who shot at Deep lied for a few days before decrying the clearly Indians, being brown and doing much better
communities not seen since after Rai, a Sikh American who has survived. racist attack in Kansas was bad optics to say the than some other minority communities in
World War II under McCarthyism. What is different this time is the enormity of least. America, had become complacent. The current
Our County Executive (Edward P. the outrage and widespread fear among the India has strongly taken up the matter with atmosphere may jolt them into more civic
Mangano) must speak out against Indian community in America over safety and Washington. Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar was engagement. Already, the media noted that some
the Immigration Ban and take security concerns. There have been vigils and conveyed by US ofcials that the Feb 22 attack Indian ladies took part in the womens march the
proactive and public steps to pro protests in different parts of the country. Back in on Kuchibhotla and his friend was an individual day after Trumps inauguration in Washington,
tect our communities against India too there have been protests against such case. Of course, there is no conspiracy, no DC. Some progress! We must also take to heart
racial hatred, ethnic discrimina hate crimes. One fallout: some people shelving organized gangs like the dotbusters couple of the advice of community leaders and politicians
tion, and antiSemitism. the idea of going to America to study or work. decades ago in New Jersey. It was an isolated act of various stripes to participate more actively in
I call on our County Executive It is different this time because the recent hate by a disturbed White man who bore some the political process. Fortunately, we have ve of
and the Police Commissioner to crimes could have been foretold because of the grudge against the foreigner looking people. But our own in the US Congress currently, and they
publicly assure our residents that antiimmigrant rhetoric and bigotry of the that does not assuage the security fears in the have voiced our concerns loudly and clearly.
Nassau County administration Trump election campaign. President Trumps community. The real, unsaid fear is this: the There need to be more pondering and heart
will do all within its power to pro executive actions and proposals since inaugura looming presence of Steve Bannon in the White searching to nd the way forward to not only
tect all our residents from dis tion such as travel ban on predominantly House as Trumps brain is a dog whistle, that this make our place secure here, but also for the

~
criminatory rhetoric and Muslim countries, revising H1 and H4 visa rules, administration wants to curtail fresh immigra peace and prosperity of the country we now call
hateful acts. making immigration meritbased etc have only tion to retain white majority and white suprema home.

Hate crimes against Indians not STUDENTS IN INDIA PROTEST


to be tolerated: US lawmaker HATE CRIMES IN US
Washington: An inuential US lawmaker has or gender, have no place in our country," Mr New Delhi: T he All India Students' "We will try to make this a civil society
strongly condemned the recent hate crimes Costa said. Association on Thursday held a protest protest later. We are raising an initial
against IndianAmericans and said that such "My thoughts and prayers are with the vic march here against hate crimes against voice against the deaths of the Indian
incidents in the US will not be tolerated. tims, their families and all the Indian commu Indians in the US and demanded strict Americans in the US. Not only Indian
"The recent hate crimes against Indian nities across the country. Justice must be action from the government. Americans, there have also been attacks
Americans in Washington and Kansas cannot served, and I commend the agencies that are Members of the left wing student organ on other racial and religious minorities,"
and will not be tolerated," said Democratic working together to prosecute the individuals ization marched from Teen Murti to the AISA's National President Sucheta De told
lawmaker from California, Jim Costa. who are responsible for the horric and hate US Embassy to protest rising cases of IANS.
"We, as Americans, should never forget that ful attacks," he said. racist attacks against Indians in the US. "The racist attackers see minorities and
our country was founded in part on the prin Meanwhile, Senator Jerry Moran from The AISA demanded the Indian govern shout 'This is not your country, go back
ciple of religious freedom. Our Constitution Kansas visited Indian Embassy this week. ment should hold US President Donald to your country'. Very interestingly, the
protects the freedom of religion. Attacks on "The (Kansas) shooting has caused wide Trump "accountable for propagating hate Ministry of External Affairs and the Prime
the Indian community are rooted in hatred, spread concern in India over the safety of against racial minorities". Minister are silent because their own
bigotry and a complete lack of understanding sons and daughters who have come here to They asked for a tough diplomatic stand party (the BJP) tells religious minorities
of the faith and culture. study and work in pursuit of the American by Prime Minister Narendra Modi against here to go (back) to their countries," she
"As a nation of immigrants, we must treat dream. I expressed my condolences to increasing cases of hate crimes in the US. said.
every American citizen with the same level of Ambassador Navtej Sarna and assured him The protesters raised slogans like "We are here to say that hate makes no
respect and acceptance into our communi and his country that such hatred is not the "America ki dalali nahi chalegi", "Trump ki country great and that there is a need to
ties. Hate crimes, especially those that are norm in Kansas, and I delivered a letter from dalali nahi chalegi" (Actions on behalf of be proactive to end hate crimes in the US,"
based on intolerance for a certain race, creed Olathe Mayor Mike Copelan, he said. America or Trump will not be tolerated). she added.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL COMMUNITY March 11-17, 2017 9

The onus is on POTUS: Ravi Batra


The South Asian Times: Safety
concerns have escalated in the
Indian community after the recent
hate crimes. How do you view the
situation and what can be done? life of 5,000 men, women and American Values so that we may Tillerson, Attorney General Jeff
children upon landing in India, now in real fact, as we did at our Sessions and Homeland Security
Ravi Batra: Adam Puriton fol after losing these colonies to birth, be the "united States of Secretary John Kelly working
lowed up his ragesoaked "Get out George Washington: so, India paid America," with "united" as a beau together to effectuate a calibrated
of my country!" rant with enough the price of the successful tiful and heartwarming adjective, policy change that seeks to honor
bullets to cut down law abiding American Revolution and every rather than merely a declarative the Constitution as well as the
Srinivas Kuchibhotla and shoot Indian is uniquely a lawful "fake news" noun since Lincoln's President's solemn duty to protect
Alok Madasani and Good American with an indivisible des Civil War and sharply in focus our public safety.
Samaritan Ian Grillot. While this tiny, not merely an indivisible since November last. If the travel ban has taught any
may reincite the KKK, as fresh nation ( "...one nation under God, Those of us who voted for one anything, it is that governance
blood in the water does sharks, indivisible,..."). President Trump and want him to must not mimic campaigning.
the fact remains this is a hate The 2016 election left America drain the swamp and restore I am delighted that the revised
crime during Hate Season that a house divided. Do we really Greatness also expect greatness travel been excludes from its
needs President Trump to call an want a civil war that is neither from POTUS, in addition to great grasp not only green card holders
Eminent Attorney Ravi Batra
end to shameful and countryrip civil nor lawful? President Trump ness from America. Let greatness and holders of lawfully issues
ping demonic "hate," in favor of less"? has the opportunity, consistent dene each of us, every citizen visas, but also the loyal and brave
our Better Angels that uplifts us To the ignorant, I hasten to with his Oath, to be the president and institution, so America can Iraqi citizens who have risked
all. offer a few critical reminders of all Americans especially those truly be adjective "great," and not their lives to support American
The question that ought to unique to India and Indians: who voted for someone else. merely noun "Great." policy in Iraq.
haunt Trump adviser Steve 1. Columbus came looking for Sovereignty includes Trumpvot Those who are opposed to the
Bannon is: Has his White India and Indians, and if Indians ers and NeverTrumpers, and the How do you view the revised new travel ban, must put politics
Supremacist coded rhetoric of didn't come to America, Columbus Constitution protects each from travel ban? aside, as they are dutybound to
"taking back (our) country" ignit would still be lost; tyranny and hatefueled violence. Ravi Batra: I welcome President help President Trump perform
ed the violent explosive pentup 2. Boston Tea Party of 1773 I expect Attorney General Jeff Trump and his presidential gov and succeed, and only object for a
anger among those who are starred Indian Tea; and Sessions, a man of personal honor, erningmode. What a delight to valid constitutional objections or
"White" and "rich," "poor" or "job 3. Lord Cornwallis extracted the to vindicate all that we cherish as see Secretary of State Rex valid policy differences."

We should join civic resistance to


injustice building up in US
By Shivaji Sengupta majority Muslim countries, was here, are citizens of this country or happening, not legally and consti the Silicon Valley CEOs are South
perhaps the last straw on the are permanent residents, have a tutionally, but through fear. The Asians or Asians. "We are not just

I
t's been about two weeks since camel's back. Those who agree responsibility toward the United criminals are not the Mexicans but building an economic society; we
Srinivas Kuchibhotla died of a with Trump began to see this as an States. T hen, there is politics, true blue Americans who go are building a civic society," he
gunshot wound, and Alok opportunity to take the law into national and international. A group around killing foreigners about said. His implication is that Asians
Madasani injured. Harish Patel in their own hands and commit vio called South Asian Americans whom they know nothing. And cannot join in the building of a
South Carolina was shot and killed, lence against immigrants. Leading Together (SAALT) has doc immigrants are leaving; foreigners civic society simply because they
and Deep Rai in Seattle survived a What exacerbates this whole, umented over 200 incidents of are not coming in. are Asians and know nothing
murder attempt. Madasani is a unpleasant and scary situation is hate violence and xenophobic We are thus standing on the pre about America. Well, are these
friend of Kuchibhotla the two the added ignorance of those who crimes against South Asian and carious isthmus between fear for poor white Americans, with their
software engineers worked for committing hate crimes, those Arab communities. The Hindu, one ourselves, and anxiety for our levels of education and ignorance,
Garmin, a GPS company. often referred to as "white trash." of India's most respected newspa adopted home. As South Asians better builders of American civic
All this we know. What none of They cannot distinguish between pers, has called for External Affairs what should we do? What is our society? As immigrants and US citi
us can fathom is why these two immigrants from the Middle East Minister Sushma Swaraj to formal responsibility? zens we have a duty to join the
young Indians, relaxing with a and South Asia. Purinton, the man ly protest to President Trump I suggest we should join the vast civic resistance that is building up
drink in an upscale bar in Kansas, who killed Kuchibhotla, thought he about the lack of safety of Indians resistance already building in in America and educate our set
would be so cruelly targeted clear was killing a Middle Eastern. in America. America against hate and discrimi tler white American brothers.
out of the blue. Or so it seems. White House press secretary Sean But for me, and most Indian nation, not just against Indians but Invite them to our homes, mix with
But perhaps not. According to Spicer categorically rejected any Americans, the recent clearly hate against all minorities. Indians in them, be eager to learn from them
Alok Madasani who was having the causal re lat ionship between crimes make us quest ion: Is this country have a tendency to be their culture; not be separate.
drink with the deceased, the assas Trump's (hate) speeches against America changing? clannish, looking only after their Through our clannishness and
sin, Adam Purinton, was already Mexican undocumented criminals Sandip Roy, a writer who recent own interests. Yes, we have lost myopia, let us not prove Steve
harassing them, asking questions and this crime. He failed to address ly relocated to India from the US, three of our brothers; but we are Bannon right.
whether they were legally in the why such crimes have suddenly and David Brooks of The New York losing much more than that. We,
US. Many people, therefore, are ared up since Trump's inaugura Times have lamented the change in the immigrants, are losing our The writer is Professor of
connecting the attack directly with tion. Denying the connection may American environment from being foothold in this country. Our ght English and Vice President for
Trump's mission of deporting all be justied; not saying anything a friendly, trusting, sweet simple is not against President Trump. He Academic
undocumented entrants. Since the about the killer, a former Navy ton (Roy's view) to a country has been legally elected. Our ght Affairs at
presidential election, during which Seal, or the murder victims, seems breeding fear, hate and paranoia, should be against anything unfair Boricua
Donald Trump had made a number insensitive and callous. especially about foreigners and unjustied be it a presidential College in
of inammatory remarks, the So now what can be done? On (Brooks'). I submit that these Executive Order or these senseless NYC. He
atmosphere in the country has the one side we have fear. Many things are radically changing all killings of minorities. has lived in
been decidedly antiimmigrant. Indians, back home and here in the our lives. What Donald Trump Steve Bannon, Trump's chief the US for
President Trump's Executive Order US, are calling for Indians to promised ostensibly by changing adviser, has looked dismally at the 50 years.
barring entry by people from return. On the other, we who live and amending laws is ironically fact that more than twothirds of
10 March 11-17, 2017 NATIONAL COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

US man videostalks Outrage in community


Indians, says theyre
stealing jobs over blasphemous CNN
Washington/New Delhi:
Members of the Indian commu
nity in the US have been
this whole area is all Indian,
amazing. Its an amazing number
of jobs have been taken away
show on Hinduism
New York: Indian American commu
alarmed by a video posted on an from Americans. T he Indian nity and Overseas Friends of BJP
antiimmigration website, which crowd has ravished the Midwest. (OFBJP) USA have strongly con
shows Indian families relaxing Its a takeover, the man said. demned the airing last weekend of
in an Ohio park, while a man Pushor told BuzzFeed News the despicable Believer episode on
taking the video accuses them of that the immigrant visaholders Hinduism by CNN, hosted by the
stealing American jobs, the are a threat to the IT jobs. Reza Aslan. OFBJP said:
media reported. The video is What were trying to point Documentaries like these are threat
titled Welcome to Columbus out is people in Ohio, IT workers to religious harmony in this country.
Ohio Suburbs Lets Take a and other professional people, CNN chose to air this blasphemous
Walk to Indian Park and was have lost their jobs to foreign episode despite nationwide request
posted on guest workers, he said. from the community to stop it. The
SaveAmericanITJobs.com. The The video has many Indian Aghoris episode reects Iranian
website is run by 66yearold families worried. It comes after The first episode of Believer focused on the fringe sect of supposedly
American host Reza Aslans poor
cannibalistic Aghoris. It came amid atmosphere of hate against immi
computer programmer Steve Hyderabad techie Srinivas understanding of Hinduism and
grant minorities, sparking outrage in the Indian community.
Pushor, reported BuzzFeed Kuchibhotla was shot dead sends a wrong message to the view
News. recently at a bar in Kansas City. ers about Hinduism and its philoso Kand, who had initiated ef forts to said in a statement that they were
The video has a running com Many people have reacted to phy. Most Hindus are vegetarians eradicate misrepresentation of extremely concerned that while
mentary showing men, women the video, some calling it an and uphold nonviolence and their Hinduism in California text books in they are not Aslans intentions, erro
and children playing and relax attempt at igniting racial dis customs, rituals, and practices are 2004, said, When we are witnessing neous depictions, misleading
ing in a public park. T he cord. nonviolent with the aim of world intolerant attacks on minorities, tele imagery, and provocative rst half of
description of the video reads As a cit izen of this g reat peace. Worlds oldest religion, casting this serial will add more mis the program could exacerbate
Ohios suburban park is occu nation I nd this video against Hinduism, is the only major religion representation, bias and may lead to Hinduphobia in the face of wide
pied by rich Indians. These the fundamental American val that propagates the message whole more hate crimes. spread religious illiteracy about
Indians have to be clocking in at ues of diversity and equality of world is one family and prays for US India Political Action Hinduism. OFBJP has demanded an
$$$150 200K plus in salary all races, commented a user whole worlds prosperity and peace. Committee (USINPAC) said in a state unconditional apology from CNN for
to live in this area. The clothes w ith a prole name Stem Shalabh Kumar, founder of ment, T he show characterizes severely hurting the sentiments of
they are wearing, the cars in the Mentor. As an American, I apol Republican Hindu Coalition and a Hinduism as cannibalistic, which is a Hindus across the globe. OFBJP pres
parking lot, the expensive baby ogize for this mans behavior! top supporter of President Trump, bizarre way of looking at the third ident Krishna Reddy Anugula said,
strollers, ALL pointed to BIG $$, commented another user. said in a tweet, Hinduism has been largest religion in the world. Documentaries like this promote
the narrator said in the video, During the entire video, the attacked because a large number of Reza Aslan responded to claims of hatred towards Hinduism and
adding Americans found it dif narrator has used words like Hindu Americans supported Trump Hinduphobia on Twitter: This is a destroy the religious fabric of a
cult to get IT Jobs. The number insane, hell and mad look during the election campaign. I con show about the Aghori not Hinduism nation. CNN should not provide a
of people from foreign countries ing at footage of Indians in the demn @rezaaslan, CNN for airing #believer https://t.co/uwroTHp5Ka. platform to promote hatred against
blows my mind out here. You see post. Believer with ction. Khanderao The Hindu American Foundation any religion.

Kansas guv says ashamed of


shooting, Indians are valued India lauds Kansas hero
New York: Indians are a valuable community of Kansas and New Delhi: India has offered to assist 24
they are welcome in the state, governor Sam Brownback has yearold Ian Grillot, who tried to grab a
told Indian diplomats and community members in the after Kansas gunman who shot at two Indians
math of the killing of Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla. last week, as he recuperates from bullet
The hateful actions of one man doesnt dene us, Kansas wounds at a hospital, and has invited him
governor said. to visit.
Brownback said he was ashamed of the killing of India's consul general in Houston
Kuchibhotla and the wounding of Alok Madasani last month who has jurisdiction over Kansas state
and it was not characteristic of the state that valued Indians, met Grillot and his parents last Thursday
consul general Anupam Ray told IANS over the phone. and read out a Twitter message for him
The hateful actions of one man doesnt dene us, from foreign minister Sushma Swaraj.
Brownback said. Ray, who is based in Houston, Texas, has "India salutes the bravery of Ian
jurisdiction over Kansas state, visited the state last week and Grillot," Anupam Ray, India's consul gen
Anupam Ray, India's consul general in Houston, met Ian Grillot in the Kansas
met the governor, lieutenant governor Jeff Colyer and mem eral, read out from his phone as Grillot,
hospital, conveying an invitation to visit India.
bers of the Indian community. with his right arm in a sling, looked on.
The state leaders said they are available for the Indian "Best wishes for a speedy recovery." Ray said. "We will stand by you, whatever you ing the Austins management to have the
community and will give them whatever help they need, told Grillot and his parents that he was need." On Rays invitation to Grillot and man evicted. But the man returned min
according to Ray. Ray described as moving his meeting last speaking on behalf of Swaraj and the his family to India as soon as he is able to utes later with a gun and shot at
Thursday with Ian Grillot, the heroic American, who was Indian people, in a brief video of their travel, Grillot replied: "I look forward to Kuchibhotla and Madasani. Kuchiobhotla
shot while trying to stop the gunman. interaction shot by the Indian consulate being able to go meet everybody [in died while Madasani survived.
I have not met a person like that in my life, Ray said. A in Houston and by Kansas University India]." On February 22, Grillot was at the Grillot, who had tried to take cover,
very brave man, he took a bullet for another man. Hospital, where Grillot is undergoing Austins Bar and Grill in Olathe, Kansas, thought the attacker had emptied his
Grillot represents the best of America, he said. After the treatment. "On behalf of the minister, it is when Adam Purinton started abusing two magazine and tried to charge him. But
shooting Consul R. D. Joshi and Vice Consul Harpal Singh my great honor and privilege to meet Indian engineers also enjoying a drink. the gunman still had two bullets in his
from the Houston Consulate General had rushed to Kansas you, and convey our minister's and the Grillot joined the engineers, Srinivas gun, and shot those at Grillot, who
to help Madasani and the family of Kuchibhotla. people of India's good wishes to you," Ray Kuchibhotla and Alok Madasani, in urg received injuries to his hand and chest.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL COMMUNITY March 11-17, 2017 11

Pause on chasing the American Dream


Mumbai based journalism student KARISHMA ASOODANI spoke to four youngsters about their
reaction to recent hate crimes against Indians in America.

I
t is a dream for many Indians Mayukh Majumdar, who closely in almost all first world countries. grants is to go to a peaceful peace. yours" are the words that come
to find their way to the US, followed the US presidential A student who lives in fear of get from a country which has about
the land of abundant oppor election: ting deported for doing something Abhinav Singh, a social media 13% of its total population of for
tunities. But the recent incidents It's definitely a sad phenomenon wrong, is now also living in the executive: eigners. United States is one of
there are making many to of hate crimes against Indians in fear of getting harassed. It is easy T his rapid rise of blind hate undoubtedly the most influential
rethink what good are all crime. But it's not unexpected for me to feel targeted after learn against innocent people because countries in the world, which
those promised opportunities if especially since we have been see ing about crimes against Indians in they appear to be a certain way is makes it an important economy
you have to risk your life and ing increasing attacks against the America. Racial discrimination has absolutely abhorrent. In India too, too. It is here that these foreign
limb? minorities and people of color in always been an issue, but now it people are victimized for belonging nationals contribute about 14.7%
In May 2016, Davinder singh the United States after an election has entered a dif ferent phase to certain states or religion. We to the US economy, which is actual
was shot dead at his gas station which was highly divisive. where people are being attacked express our outrage against hap ly larger than the share of their
in Newark. A few months later Everyone wants to visit America wantonly, with seeming impunity. penings in the United States, and population.
came the news of Nicki Pancholy once in their lifetime, but now it's I'm being asked by my parents to rightly so, but this should make us Thus, hate crimes become a very
who was attacked in California sad that a lot of Indians are recon go out in a group, so that I'm not realize that hatred anywhere is important issue not just for people,
in November. But last months sidering visiting because they're targeted or attacked. My confi detestable. We will definitely see an but also for the economy. Even
hateful killing of Srinivas fearful of what might happen to dence is gone for a toss and fear increase in such attacks because when we exclude the economy fac
Kuchibhotla has sparked a them if they do. has gripped me. I hope that US this has been normalized by the cur tor, the bigger question here is
huge outrage in India, where President Trump looks into this so rent White House. about the value of life. Is anyone's
many parents are advising Rakshita Chhajer, who is study that students like us who are seek life as dispensable as a glass of
their children to shelve plans ing Brand Management in the UK: ing opportunities in the Untied Kopal Cheema, a prospective beer in a Kansas bar? How many
to go to America for jobs or The constant hate towards immi States can safely step in. After all, business journalist more lives do we have to lose
studies. grants is seen clearly among locals what concerns students and immi "Leave my country and go to before this can be stopped?

Is anyone's life as dispensable as a glass of beer in a Kansas bar?


12 March 11-17, 2017 US AFFAIRS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

TRUMP'S NEW IMMIGRATION ORDER


IS 'VITAL' FOR US SECURITY
Washington: Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
said on Monday that the new executive order Iraq is off the list; green
on immigration, signed earlier in the week card and visa holders
by President Donald Trump, is "vital" for the
country's security and asked Washington's
not affected; travel
allies around the world to "understand" that ban effective
it is a "temporary" effort to strengthen immi March 16 onward.
gration control.
The executive order Trump signed on three have provided refuge to terrorists and
Monday morning is "a vital measure for have governments that have lost control of
strengthening our national security" where their territories due to groups like the
by the President is "exercising his rightful Islamic State, Al Qaeda and their affiliates.
authority to keep our people safe," EFE news Sessions also said that the Justice
quoted Tillerson as saying in an appearance Department believes this order, like the first
before reporters along with Attorney General one that was blocked by the courts, is "a law
Jef f Sessions and Home land Security Rex Tillerson, Jeff Sessions and John Kelly explaining the new order ful and proper exercise of presidential
Secretary John Kelly. authority", as per the constitutional powers
"While no system can be completely infalli Iran, Somalia, Yemen, Libya, Syria and Sudan. (multiple security measures) to achieve our accorded to the President to make national
ble, the American people can have high con Tillerson urged US allies and partners shared objective of preventing those with security judgments.
fidence we are investigating ways to improve around the world to understand that the criminal or terrorist intent from reaching the Kelly, meanwhile, said that the Department
the vetting process and thus keep terrorists newly crafted order is part of the administra United States." of Homeland Security will enforce the meas
from entering our country," said Tillerson, tion's attempt to eliminate security vulnera Sessions, upon addressing reporters, ures "humanely, respectfully and with pro
adding that the order will strengthen securi bilities "that radical Islamist terrorists can emphasized that "More than 300 people who fessionalism", albeit forcefully.
ty for the US and its allies. and will exploit for destructive ends". came here as refugees (since the September This order specifies that citizens of the six
Trump signed a new version of his earlier The top US diplomat said that Iraq was 11, 2001 terrorist attacks) are under FBI nations in question may enter the US if they
controversial order, and the new directive struck of f the list although it had been investigation for potential terrorismrelated had a valid visa before 5 p.m. on January 27.
will enter into force on March 16 and prohib included in the first one because it "is an activities." The President also eliminated any refer
it US entry to refugees for 120 days, along important ally in the fight to defeat ISIS," He said that three of the nations on the list ence to Christians, that group being one that
with halting the issuing of visas to citizens of adding that Baghdad "will be implementing are state sponsors of terrorism and the other he had tried to protect in his first order.

TRUMP BACKS GOP PLAN WikiLeaks releases trove of


AGAINST OBAMACARE DESPITE
SKEPTICISM IN CONGRESS alleged CIA hacking tools
Washington: The Donald Trump to help people acquire health insur Washington: Antisecrecy organiza hacking programs, The NYT added.
administration on Tuesday backed ance and to expand Medicaid. tion WikiLeaks on Tuesday released One, codenamed Weeping Angel,
the proposal Republican lawmakers The new plan ends the require thousands of documents that it said uses Samsung "smart" televisions as
presented to replace the healthcare ment that uninsured individuals described sophisticated software covert listening devices. According
reform law signed in 2010 by for obtain health insurance or face a tools used by the Central to the WikiLeaks news release, even
mer President Barack Obama, fine. Intelligence Agency (CIA) to break when it appears to be turned of f,
despite the skepticism the plan has The GOP plan also intends to cre into smartphones, computers and the television "operates as a bug,
aroused among some more conser ate a system of tax credits to pro even Internetconnected televisions. recording conversations in the
vative lawmakers. vide incentives to people to buy The initial release, which WikiLeaks WikiLeaks with portions of the room and sending them over the
After Trump confirmed on Twitter health insurance, and it exempts said was only the first part of the archive." WikiLeaks said the source, internet to a covert CIA server."
that "Our wonderful new companies from having to of fer document collection, included in a statement, set out policy ques The release said the program was
Healthcare Bill is now out for alternative coverage to their 7,818 web pages with 943 attach tions that "urgently need to be deve loped in cooperation with
review and negotiation," Health and employees. ments, The New York Times quoted debated in public, including British intelligence.
Human Services Secretary Tom However, the proposal has the group as saying. The entire whether the CIA's hacking capabili Since their release, internetcon
Price made an appearance before already encountered detractors archive of the CIA material consists ties exceed its mandated powers nected televisions have been a focus
reporters at the White House to among Republican ranks. On the of several hundred million lines of and the problem of public oversight for hackers and cyber security
defend the ef forts to repeal one hand, more moderate computer code, it said. of the agency." T he source, the experts, many of whom see the sets'
Obamacare, EFE news reported. Congressmen whose states benefit Among other disclosures, the group said, "wishes to initiate a ability to record and transmit con
"Our goal is absolutely to make ed from Obamacare are coming out WikiLeaks release said that the CIA public debate about the security, versations as a potentially danger
certain that individuals have the against the GOP plan and, on the and allied intelligence services had creation, use, proliferation and dem ous vulnerability.
opportunity to select their physi other, the most conservative managed to bypass encryption on ocratic control of cyber weapons." In early 2015, Samsung appeared
cian," emphasized Price. Republicans such as Senator Rand popular phone and messaging serv The documents, from the CIA's to acknowledge the televisions
"In terms of premiums, we believe Paul, say they see it as "Obamacare ices such as Signal, WhatsApp and Centre for Cyber Intelligence, are posed a risk to privacy. The fine
strongly through this whole process Lite". "This is a work in progress," Telegram. dated from 2013 to 2016, and print terms of service included with
and as it takes effect that we'll see a Price said regarding the govern According to the statement from WikiLeaks described them as "the its smart TVs said that the televi
decrease in not only the premiums ment's aim to work with the more WikiLeaks, government hackers can largest ever publication of confiden sion sets could capture background
that individuals will see, but a skeptical lawmakers to incorporate penetrate Android phones and col tial documents on the agency." conversations, and that they could
decrease in the cost of healthcare some changes they want. lect "audio and message traf fic A CIA spokesman, Dean Boyd, be passed on to third parties.
for folks," Price said. On some peo Price also said that the majority of before encryption is applied." said, "We do not comment on the T he company also provided a
ple calling it Trumpcare", Price said citizens will see no "significant The source of the documents was authenticity or content of purported remarkably blunt warning: "Please
he preferred to call it "Patientcare". change" in their coverage and that not named. WikiLeaks said the doc intelligence documents." be aware that if your spoken words
T hat proposal has been long the goal is for patients to have the uments, which it called Vault 7, had Some of the details of the CIA pro include personal or other sensitive
awaited after the repeated promises option to select their own doctors, been "circulated among former US grams might have come from the information, that information will
by Republican lawmakers since as well as to give more flexibility to government hackers and contrac plot of a spy novel for the cyber age, be among the data captured and
2010 to repeal and replace states to manage their insurance tors in an unauthorized manner, revealing numerous highly classi transmitted to a third party through
Obamacare, including its subsidies markets. one of whom has provided fied and in some cases, exotic your use of Voice Recognition."
TheSouthAsianTimes.info US AFFAIRS March 11-17, 2017 13

Public hearing on Russian Trump to restrict jobs to


meddling in election spouses of H1B visa holders
Washington: After the contro authorization to work hurts the
Washington: T he House versial ban on 6 Muslim coun American workers. After
Intelligence Committee will hold tries and continuous target on increasing the difficulty in pre
its first public hearing in the probe immigrant and foreign workers, mium processing of H1B visas
into alleged Russian interference the latest target on the radar of and now increasing the difficul
in the 2016 election, committee the Trump administration are ty level of H4 visas, the Trump
chairman Devin Nunes has said. the spouses of the foreign work administration has increased
The Republican congressman ers. In a report published on the problems of the immigrant
from California told reporters on Womens day, it has been stated labor force working in the US.
Tuesday that the hearing will be that the US Department of T he USCIS from April 3,
held on March 20, adding that he Justice has filed a brief in the 2017, will temporarily suspend
intends to hold more public hear Washington DC court appealing the premium processing for all
ings on the matter, given the inter to freeze a case for 60days the H1B petitions and the sus
est it has aroused and with the aim involving the authorization for pension may last up to six
of being transparent, Efe news H4 visa holders. The holders of months.
reported. H4 visas are mostly the spous An appeal was filed by a
The House Intelligence Committee is probing Kremlins involvement es of the H1B visa holders group called Save Jobs USA
Called before the hearings as
in US election and any collusion with the Trump campaign. residing in the United States. against this but it was over
witnesses are FBI Director James
Comey, National Security Agency denied any connections with the Russian links with the Trump cam In 2015, the US administra ruled. However, the group has
Director Mike Rogers, former CIA Kremlin and has called the accusa paign, but he reiterated that his tion under Barack Obama had once ag ain appealed to the
Director John Brennan and former tions about his contacts with the meetings with the diplomat were passed a rule that allowed the Trump Administration to look
National Inte lligence Director Russians a "witch hunt". in keeping with his duties as sena eligible spouses holding H4 over the appeal filed by the
James Clapper. Tensions in the matter height tor, the position he held at the visa to work while their counter Department of Just ice. T he
The US intelligence community ened after last wee k T he time, and not in connection with part holding H1B visas would Department of Just ice on
concluded that the Russian govern Washington Post revealed that his advisory role to Trump's cam await to gain the permission for February 1 had filed an appeal
ment under President Vladimir Attorney General Jef f Sessions paign. permanent residency in the US. entitled Consent motion to hold
Putin had undertaken measures to held meetings with the Russian Meanwhile, Democrats called However, things have now proceedings in abeyance for 60
influence the November 8, 2016 Ambassador to Washington that he specifically for Sessions' resigna changed after Trump took over days asking the court to allow
presidential election to favor cur later hid from the Senate during tion and continue to insist on the as President. incoming leadership personnel
rent President Donald Trump and his confirmation hearings. need to open a special and inde As reported by Economic adequate time to consider the
harm the e lect ion chances of When those meetings became pendent investigation into the Times, the new US Attorney issue. The appeal will impact
Demo crat ic nominee Hillary known, Sessions recused himself issue of Russian election interfer general Jeff Sessions has stated thousands of Indians residing in
Clinton. Meanwhile, Trump has from the investigation into the ence. that the H4 rule that allows the US with H4 visa.

Trump, Obama haven't spoken Trump will not accept FBIs


since inauguration, but aides have
Washington: President Donald Trump among advisers will ultimately lead to a
nay to wiretapping claims
Washington: President Donald Trump does
and former President Obama have not conversation between the 44th and
not accept FBI Director James Comeys denial
spoken since the inauguration, but their 45th presidents.
of his charges that the outgoing President
respective advisers have. Spokesmen for Trump and Obama
Barack Obama wiretapped the billionaires
Two people familiar with the matter declined to comment. Obama was irked
phones last year, a White House spokes
say Trump's White House chief of staff, and exasperated in response to his suc
woman said. Comey unsuccessfully asked the
Reince Priebus, and Obama's former cessor's uncorroborated wiretapping
Justice Department over the weekend to pub
W hite House chie f of staf f, Denis accusation, sources close to the former
licly refute Trumps accusations that Obama
McDonough, have spoken since Trump president told CNN, thoug h these
ordered his phones tapped during the 2016
claimed, without evidence, that Obama sources say Obama's reaction stopped
electoral campaign, say media reports.
had him wiretapped. short of outright fury.
The FBI director said the gravity of the
There have also been conversations Obama and his aides responded with
accusations of Trumps communications
between other former Obama of ficials disbelief when they learned of Trump's
being tapped required a public statement by
and Trump officials since Saturday. Saturday morning tweets laying out the
the Justice Department saying that did not
"T here is a dialogue," one person charges. Later in the day, an Obama
happen, but the latter agency has not as yet
familiar with the conversations said, spokesman said "neither President
issued any statement on the matter.
speaking on condition of anonymity Obama nor any White House of ficial
W hite House spokeswoman Sarah
because they are not authorized to ever ordered surveillance on any US citi
Huckabee Sanders was asked on Monday in
speak publicly about the talks. zen. Any suggestion otherwise is simply
an ABC News interview on whether Trump
The question is whether these talks false."
accepted Comeys views on the matter.
You know, I dont think he does, the
spokeswoman said, adding that the govern

Hawaii to fight Trump's revised travel ban ment of former President Obama was wire
tapping American citizens, a seeming refer
Obama was reportedly infuriated by the
Honolulu: A day after President Trump tries and temporarily shuts down ence to the massive surveillance carried out
Presidents allegation that Trump Tower
signed a revised travel ban, attorneys America's refugee program, af fecting by the National Security Agency (NSA)
was wiretapped going into the election.
for Hawaii said the state plans to chal wouldbe visitors and immigrants from revealed by whistleblower Edward Snowden,
so he could have done the same to Trump. former president through a statement by his
lenge that order as well. Iran, Syria, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen and
The President wants the truth to come out spokesman.
The state wants to amend its existing Libya.
to the American people through the House White House spokesman Sean Spicer asked
lawsuit challenging Trump's previous Hawaii's lawsuit had been on hold
Inte lligence Committee and that is the later that Congress investigate the alleged
order to contest the revised one, while a nationwide injunction on the
process we go through, she said. wiretapping as part of the case about Russias
according to a motion filed on Tuesday initial ban remained in place. This is
Trumps accusation without substantiation supposed interference in last Novembers US
in federal court in Honolulu. the second time Hawaii has asked a
that Obama ordered his telephone calls to be presidential election, in order to determine
The new order bars new visas for judge to lift the stay in order to file an
wiretapped was tweeted by Trump, which was whether there was a potential abuse of power
people from six Muslimmajority coun amended lawsuit.
rejected hours later as simply false by the by the Obama administration.
14 March 11-17, 2017 OP-ED TheSouthAsianTimes.info

By IndiaSpend Team
DOING BUSINESS EASIER, BUT INDIA STILL
I
ndia improved its ease of doing
business ranking last year
moving up from 131 to 130 in a AMONG WORST PERFORMERS
list of 190 countries by reducing
the average time taken to start an safety. This is about the same time
enterprise and secure a permanent that Japan takes and twice the
electricity connection, according to time taken by developed Western
2016 World Bank data. nat ions such as US, UK and
However, an IndiaSpend analysis Germany. South Asia is the slowest
of these data shows that India still region in this respect, slower than
ranks among the worst performers even African countries.
on other key parameters. In every country, industrial and
Using five parameters, we picked commercial disputes arise when
10 nations across seven regions to there is a conflict of interest
compare India's ease of doing busi between companies or between
ness south and east Asia (includ companies and the government.
ing China), developed countries, Resolving these conflicts in the
subSaharan Africa, lower middle least possible time is a sign of a
income countries such as India healthy and growing economy.
(with per capita incomes between In most indicators, India ranked low, coming closest to subSaharan African countries. India, on an average, takes thrice
$1,026 and $4,035) and the the time to resolve disputes than
European Union. completing legal procedures and slowest of the four most advanced taken to provide electricity to a developed countries. The country's
In most indicators, India ranked (5) resolving insolvency if a busi countries take: US (6), UK (5), new enterprise rose to 100 days in judicial system is fraught with
low, coming closest to subSaharan ness fails. We compared these Germany (11) and Japan (11). 201314, and then gradually fell to delays and there is a shortage of
African countries. parameters in India with three However, it is an improvement 46 days in 2016. South Korea lower as we ll as hig her court
The five indicators are all related country groups over the decade over the 34 days it took in 2014 to leads with the least time, 18 days. judges. India is slower than even
to the time taken to get key tasks 2007 to 2016: (1) neighboring get a new project going. When it comes to warehousing, its poorer Asian neig hbors at
completed. Those include: (1) start Asian countries (2) deve loped The one area where India has dispute resolution and dealing resolving insolvencies that are
ing a business, (2) building a ware countries and (3) differently devel made considerable improvement is with insolvency, India is still way common in market economies.
house and equip the industrial oped country groups. provision of electricity to new busi behind. Companies here take about When businesses collapse, it is
premises with water and sewerage W hen compared to the most nesses. It has overtaken three half a year to build a warehouse, important to resolve and recover
connection, telephone line and advanced Western economies and major economies and lags only cost ing about Rs 50 lakh accumulated loans and debts so
safety measures (3) getting perma Japan, Indian businesses take behind Germany in this aspect. ($75,000) in Mumbai, with provi that entrepreneurs and banks do
nent provision of electricity, (4) twice the time (26 days) that the From 60 days in 200912, the time sions for water, telephone and not suffer.

Campus faceoff: BJP stumped by young idealists


By Amulya Ganguli Leftleaning students of New work". What is the legal paradigm?
Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University According to the Supreme Court in

I
n the confrontation between the ( JNU), which the BJP MP, the Kedar Nath Singh vs the State
Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Subramanian Swamy, wanted to be of Bihar in 1962, "a citizen has the
Parishad (ABVP) and the Leftist closed down and fumigated. right to say or write whatever he
students in the various campuses, Now, the scene has shifted to the likes about the government or its
the saffron brotherhoods muscular colleges of the University of Delhi measures by way of criticism or
nationalism is facing stif f resist after the ABVP protested against comment so long as he does not
ance not so much from the tradi the invitation sent to a JNU stu incite people to violence against
tional politicians, despite their dent, Umar Khalid, to attend a sem the government established by law
occasional interventions, as from inar in Ramjas college. Its objec or with the intention of creating
the students. tions to Khalid's presence were that public disorder".
Since the latter are seen to be he made antinational speeches in In the context of this judgment, a
driven more by unsullied ideology JNU. The Hindutva camp's case call for "azadi" is no more than a
than any cunning political calcula against the nonsaffron students of declamatory outburst as long as
ABVP members participate in Tiranga March at Delhi University
tions, the Bharatiya Janata Party campus in New Delhi. (Photo: IANS) Hyderabad university, the JNU and there is no violence in its aftermath
(BJP) has not found it easy to deal the Delhi university is that they use or public disorder.
with these young idealists. tread carefully, therefore, when Nevertheless, it is clear that the the licence of the freedom of Whatever public disorder there
Its tactics have swayed back and criticising her. BJP finds it easier to lambaste speech to demand "azadi" (free has been can be said to be due to
forth, therefore, from outright con Even then, some in the BJP have Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav dom) for Kashmir, as in JNU, and, the intolerance of those who are
demnation of what the ABVP's tried to push the envelope as far as than deal with adversaries like more recently, for Bastar, which is unable to accept viewpoints other
opponents have been saying to an they could by depicting her as a Gurmehar. Khalid's special field of study. than their own and, therefore, tar
acknowledgement of the sincerity pawn in the hands of the Leftist This is not the first time that the Since this demand for "azadi" get the "alliance of subversion" in
of the youthful Leftleaning parties. Hence, Minister of State for BJP and the ABVP have been in a amounts to subversion Khalid the name of nationalism.
activists. Home Kiren Rijiju's loaded ques similar quandary. Last year, the faces charges of sedition and is cur It is obvious that branding critics
Nothing has shown the BJP's tion: who's polluting the mind of ABVP retreated into a shell for a rently out on bail Finance as subversives is essentially an
indecisiveness more than its varied this young girl? while after Rohith Vemula, a Dalit Minister Arun Jaitley has called the intimidatory tactic which becomes
responses to the 20yearold Delhi A Mysuru MP of the BJP even student of University of Hyderabad, nonABVP groups an "alliance of all the more menacing if it is wield
student, Gurmehar Kaur's straight went to the extent of comparing committed suicide in the aftermath subversion". ed by groups associated with the
forward challenge to the ABVP, the her with Dawood Ibrahim, which of a clash between the ABVP and His penchant for these catchy ruling dispensation.
Sangh parivar's student wing "I prompted Law Minister Ravi the Ambedkar Students phrases is known. He had called the Only the very brave and the ideo
am not afraid of the ABVP". Shankar Prasad to say that the par Association, to which Rohith return of official awards by a sec logically committed can stand up to
For the saf fronties, who wear liamentarian was "wrong". belonged. The clash occurred in the tion of the intelligentsia last year a such threats. At the same time,
their patriotism on their sleeves, Perhaps realising that the party context of a Union minister's belief "manufactured rebellion". since the opposing groups carry
the issue has been complicated by was going too far in its criticism of that the university was a den of Defence Minister Manohar political labels, the battles on the
the fact that Gurmehar is the the daughter of a martyr, Home antinationals. A few weeks after Parrikar has said, however, that campuses are likely to ebb and
daughter of a soldier who died in a Minister Rajnath Singh has called that tragedy, the ABVP became free speech is okay, but it has to be flow in accordance with the politi
terrorist attack. They have had to her a daughter of India. involved in skirmishes with the within a "reasonable legal frame cal currents outside.

The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
Comptroller Maragos and DCG Dr Mohapatra felicitating HR Shah

6
16 March 11-17, 2017 HOLI Festival

Different parts, same colors


H o l i c e l e b r at i o n s ac r o s s I n d i a

(from left to right) Differently abled children celebrate holi during a program in Kolkata on Feb 5. (Photo: IANS) Nepalese people play with colored powders
after hoisting a colorful pole known as chir to mark the beginning of the week-long Holi festival in Kathmandu, Nepal, March 5.(Xinhua)
Workers busy making color powder ahead of Holi at a workshop in Jaipur, on Feb 16. (Photo: Ravi Shankar Vyas/IANS)

O ne of the most joyous festivals in India,


Holi is celebrated with much fanfare
by Hindus worldover. The celebration of the
H a r ya n a E a st e r n I n d i a
ated in Orissa. And Jagannath or the Lord of
the Universe is yet another name of Krishna.

occasion and the traditions related to its ob- A human pyramid is formed to break the In Bengal, Holi is called Dol Yatra, or the E a st e r n I n d i a
servance, however, vary from region to re- pot of buttermilk hung high up in the street swing festival. Traditionally the festival is
gion in India. Know how Holi is celebrated in Haryana, also in North India. The tradition celebrated with idols of Krishna and Radha In Manipur too, Holi is extremely interest-
different parts of India and the places where of the Hindu undivided family there is that placed on swings and devotees take turns to ing. It is a six-day festival here, commencing
it is observed with the most gaiety. the brothers wife beats her brother in law swing them. Women dance around the swing on the full moon day of Phalguna. The tradi-
with her sari rolled up into a rope in a mock and sing devotional songs, as men spray tional and centuries-old Yaosang festival of
N o r th I n d i a rage. All this is done in good humor and colored water and powder called Abeer. Manipur amalgamated with Holi in the 18th
in the evening the brother in law brings However, recent trend doesnt see much of century with the introduction of Vaishnavism.
Holi at Mathura and Vrindavan is cele- sweetmeats for her. those traditions. People play with colored wa- In earlier times, folk dances were performed
brated with great gusto for many days. For, ters, powders in the morning. And later take with folk songs under the moonlight. The only
these were the places where Krishna spent W e st e r n I n d i a out processions on the streets with bands and musical instrument used was an indigenous
most of his childhood. Situated in the North with faces and bodies covered with Holi colors. drum. Presently, these have been replaced by
Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, the celebra- In Maharashtra and Gujarat, a grand pro- The Nobel laureate Indian poet Rabindra- modern bands and fluorescent lamps. Begin-
tion there spans over a week or so. Each cession of men soaked with colored water nath Tagore introduced Basanta Utsav to re- ning days before people of collect money from
major temple, housing the idols of Krishna walks through the streets with a mock alert live the ancient tradition in the school of Shan- the community to spend on the festivities.
and Radha, celebrates Holi on a differ- call that asks to take care of pots of butter tiniketan, the seat of learning he founded. A thatched hut of hay and twigs and
ent day. People throng the temples to get and milk as Krishna comes in. This refers The Basanta Utsav means Springfest. There sticks is built and then set ablaze. The next
drenched with colored water and consider to Krishnas habit of stealing butter and the boys and girls would greet the spring at day, boys go in groups to play gulal with the
it a blessing from the god. milk stored in terracotta pots from peoples this time of the year. Not only with colors but girls. And in return for playing with them,
Of particular interest is the Holi festi- homes. There is also a tradition of hanging with recital of songs, dance and hymns in a the girls extract money from the boys. Also
val in the village of Barsana, 42 km from a pot of buttermilk high up in the street. serene environment. Today Shantiniketan is devotees play gulal and dance in front of
Mathura. Radha belonged to Barsana while Men forming a human staircase try to a full-fledged university but lives up to greet the temple of Krisna dressed in the tradi-
Krishna hailed from Nandagaon. On Holi, break this pot and whoever succeeds is the spring every year with the same tradition. tional white and yellow turbans, and sing
men from Nandagaon come to Barsana to crowned the Holi king of the locality for Orissa has also traditions similar to those of devotional songs. On the last day of the fes-
celebrate Holi with the women here, who that year. All these traditions come as a Bengal. They only place the idols of Jagannath tival, hundreds of devotees take out proces-
are ready to beat them with sticks instead mock show to relive the acts of Krishna, in place of Krishna and Radha. This is because sions towards the main Krishna temple, 3
of playing with gulal. who popularised Holi in its present forms. the famous Jagannath Temple of Puri is situ- km west of the state capital, Imphal.

Holi in Tri-State area


Barsana: People celebrate
`Laddu Holi` at Larliji Temple
in Barsana, Mathura on March 5.

Date: March 5 Spring Festival of Holi, will take place this year
Venue: Starlite Pavillion, Richmond Hill, NY on March 12. The Parade will end at the Phil
Event: Holi/Phagwah Mela 2017 Rizzuto Park (Smokey Oval) where there will
be a cultural program showcasing the commu-
Indra Seet Promotions & Geeta Mandir came nitys talented artistes. The Phagwah Parade
together to present a spectacular Holi event. is a community cultural event which helps
For years now the Caribbean Indian commu- to propagate spiritual ideas of social healing,
nity has been actively celebrating the festival love, peace, forgiveness and reconciliation.
of colors in New York area with all its pomp
and gaiety. More than 30 temples and NGOs Date: March 11, 18
participated in the event which had Stars In- Venue: Stage 48th, 605 West,
ternational Band performing. 48th Street, NYC
Event: Holi.in.the.city
Date: March 12
Venue: Richmond Hill, NY New Yorks most colorful party will be held
Event: 29th Annual Phagwah Parade over two Saturdays. This ticketed event is
open to those above 21. Wearing white attire
Richmond Hills Phagwah Parade, which is a must though you can rest assured you
commemorates the much anticipated Hindu will be provided organic colors to play with.
(Photo: IANS)
HOLI Festival March 11-17, 2017 17

Skin and hair care before, after Holi


By Shahnaz Hussain apply a moisturizer. Apply moisturising lo- cup of cold milk and add one teaspoon of ply a mild herbal shampoo, working it into
tion or cream on the arms and exposed areas. any vegetable oil, like til, olive or sun- the hair with the fingers. Massage the scalp

H oli, the festival of colours, is celebrated


at a time when nature renews and re-
freshes herself. With a little care, we can do the
Apply leave-on conditioner or hair serum
on hair before playing Holi. This protects
the hair from the effects of sun exposure
flower oil. Mix well. Dip cotton wool into
this mixture and use it to cleanse the skin.
gently and rinse thoroughly with water again.
Beer can be used as a last rinse. In fact, it
Sesame seed (til) oil can be used to re- will soften and condition the hair. Add the
same and also sustain our youth and beauty. and dryness caused by colours. Hair cream move colours from the body, massaging it juice of a lemon to the beer. Pour over the
The dry Gulal and the wet colours of to- containing sunscreen is also available. on the skin. This not only helps to remove hair after shampoo. Leave on for a few min-
day are not derived from natural sources. Take very little, spread on both palms the colours, but gives added protection to utes and rinse off with plain water.
They contain chemicals, shiny particles of and massage light into the hair, or smooth the skin. Sesame seed (til) oil actually helps The day after Holi, mix two tablespoons
mica and even lead, which not only irritate palms over the hair. Or, apply pure coconut to counteract sun-damage. honey with half a cup of curd. Add a pinch
the skin, but collect on the scalp. oil and massage it lightly into the hair. This While bathing, scrub the body gently of turmeric. Apply this on the face, neck
Since Holi is played outdoors, sun-expo- also provides protection against colours. with a loofah or wash cloth. Immediately and arms. Leave it on for 20 minutes and
sure can have a detrimental effect on the skin. Apply transparent nail varnish on the after your bath, apply a moisturizer on the wash off with water. Helps to remove tan
Apart from harmful UV radiation, sun-expo- nails. This helps to protect the nails from face and body, while the skin is still damp. and soften the skin.

(Image courtesy: rewardme.in)

sure makes the skin dry by causing depletion absorbing Holi colours. This helps to seal in moisture. Within the next few days give your hair a
of moisture and also tans the skin. The skin The real problem is removal of colours af- If there is itching, add two tablespoons vin- nourishing treatment. Mix one tablespoon
can become dry and dull after playing Holi. ter playing Holi. Rinse the face with plenty of egar to a mug of water and use it as a last rinse. pure coconut oil with one teaspoon castor
Remember to apply a sunscreen 20 min- plain water and then use a cleansing cream, or This helps to reduce itching. However, if the oil. Heat and apply on the hair. Then dip a
utes before going out in the sun. Use a sun- lotion. Apply and massage it on the face. Then itching continues, and there is rash and red- towel in hot water, squeeze out the water
screen of SPF 20 and above. If your skin is wipe off with moist cotton wool. Remember ness, there may be an allergic reaction to the and wrap the hot towel around the head,
prone to pigmented patches, select a higher to cleanse the area around the eyes too, using colour. Consult a doctor as soon as possible. like a turban. Keep it on for 5 minutes. Re-
SPF. Most sunscreens have built-in moistur- a light touch. A cleansing gel helps to dissolve While washing the hair, first rinse with peat the hot towel wrap 3 or 4 times. This
izers. If your skin is very dry, first apply the the colours and facilitates their removal. plenty of plain water to wash away the dry helps the hair and scalp absorb the oil bet-
sunscreen, wait for a few minutes and then To make your own cleanser, take half a colours and tiny particles of mica. Then ap- ter. Wash your hair after an hour.

Chilly winds and rains may dampen the mood this Holi in North India
H oli, the festival of colors, is just a few
days away. People, especially in the
northern India, are all geared up for coming
The met department has predicted thun-
dershowers and dust storms over Delhi-
NCR between Thursday and Saturday. As a
western Himalayan region. A couple of
spells of light rains, and dust storms are
Due to the impact of the WD, thundery
development and dust storms are likely to
predicted over Delhi and NCR. occur at a few places over Delhi and NCR on
Monday, March 13th, when they will get a result, the mercury will dip on coming days. In the aftermath, temperature is expect- the evening of March 8.
chance to play with colors, and celebrate the According to Delhis Regional Weather ed to drop by 2 to 4 degrees on Holi. The One or two spells of rain and thunder-
festival with their loved ones. Forecast Centre (RWFC), an active western MET department has predicted minimum storms are likely to occur at many places
Chilly winds and spell of rains, however, disturbance (WD) is likely to affect north- temperature of around 11 degrees Celsius, between the evenings of March 9 and 10,
may dampen the mood of those looking for- west India from March 7 to 11. WD may and a maximum of around 24 degrees Cel- with intensity peaking on Friday, said an
ward for the festival of colors. cause widespread rain and snow over the sius on coming Monday. official of RWFC.
18 March 11-17, 2017 BOLLYwOOD

Karan Johar plays down


Lipstick... Kanganas nepotism remarks
F ilmmaker Karan Johar says actress
Kangana Ranauts remarks about
him promoting nepotism in the film in-
dustry doesnt hold true for him, adding
that she made sweeping statements to
make an impact.
Kangana, known for her brazen hones-
ty, took a dig at Karan when she appeared
in one of the episodes of his chat show
Koffee With Karan. She called him the

brings shock to outdated flag-bearer of nepotism in Bollywood.


Karan expressed his views when a so-

thinking in India : Prakash Jha cial media user, during a live chat session
on Twitter, asked: Was Kangana correct
about nepotism?
Konkana Sen in a still from the movie. He posted: Not entirely! She made an
impact with her sweeping statements!

F ilmmaker Prakash Jha says his new


film production Lipstick Under My
Burkha, which has been denied a certifi-
viewing life from a male point of view and
CBFCs letter shows only that.
Directed by Alankrita Shrivastava, the
That was fun... for her! And the show.
Asked whether he is obsessed with
star kids, Karan said: Ask Kangana.
cate by the censor board, offers a shock film has won awards in film festivals and
The year 2016 was a difficult one for
value to those with an outdated mindset. will be travelling to festivals in Miami, Am-
Karan as his film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil got
The Central Board of Film Certification sterdam, Paris and London.
into trouble due to the presence of Paki-
(CBFC) on February 23 refused to give a cer- While the other countries are accepting
stani actor Fawad Khan.
tificate to the film for its sexual references and this liberty in a new way and reaching to a new
Now, Karan hopes that he gets to Kangana is known for her
use of abusive words, among other reasons. level, this has brought a shock to their outdat-
spend a year without offending anyone. brazen honesty.
Talking about it, Jhan said: Lipstick Un- ed thinking in our country. What they dont
der My Burkha is a beautiful film. It brings understand is that by refusing certificate to a
down the shallow and oppressing rules of film they cant oppress this thinking, Jha said. R e v i e w
our society, which says women cant speak He is happy that the certificate denial
about their fantasies. They are used to has raised the debate.

Will be blown away if


I get a National Award
A l i a B h a t t

S he is on a winning spree at various award


galas for her impactful portrayal of a Bi-
hari migrant in Udta Punjab. And even
though she doesnt work for trophies, the
young and versatile Alia Bhatt says she will
be blown away if she gets a National Award.

Commando 2
Having won the Best Actress trophy at
the recently-held Filmfare Awards and
Screen Awards, Alias deglamorized perfor-
mance as a victim of drug abuse in Udta

A frothy laidback entertainer


Punjab could be one of the frontrunners
for the Best Actress category at the upcom-
ing 64th National Film Awards.
Vidyut fails to be convincing as his character graph is flawed.
I will be blown away if I get it. Its an
honor to win a National Award. I dont
know if its possible, but if it happens, of
course, I will be very glad, Alia said. How-
T his is the second edition of this action
thriller franchise, the first being re-
leased in 2013.
crashes through his universe, punching, kick-
ing, displaying his parkour stunts and shoot-
ing himself and everyone that stand in his way.
ever, Alia says she will not be disappointed In this edition, after the arrest of Indias And if you think that Commando 2 is all
even if she doesnt get it. most wanted black money launderer, Vicky about action and nothing else, then you are
With awards, you are rewarded for just Chaddha in Malaysia, Captain Karanvir wrong. There is a plethora of lip locks and
your efforts. I dont think of it as the be- Singh Dogra, the Commando of the Special for some lighter moments, there is Bhavana
all and end-all. I dont work for awards, but Cell, is assigned to accompany the police Reddy, the encounter specialist, who mouths
the year that you get them, its just that you team to bring him back to India. her dialogues with a Hyderabadi twang. She
feel very grateful and you feel very glad While the narrative begins with the re- is used for slapstick effect throughout.
that your efforts have been recognized. cent demonetization issue, it ends up with Vidyut Jammwal as Commando Karanvir
Starting her career in the Hindi film in- how the black money could help the poor Singh is sincere, but he fails to be convinc-
dustry at a young age with the 2012 film deprived farmers of our land. ing as his character graph is flawed. Fred-
Student of the Year, Alia, who turns 24 The film is as knowingly unreal as some dy Daruwala as ACP Baktawar seems to be
on March 15, has carved out a niche for of the best early 1990s action classics. Like a miscast as a team leader. He does not
herself in Bollywood in a short time span those films, this one is essentially synthetic have the persona that balances Vidyuts
through her roles in movies like Highway, with a body count. The director has the knack and thus is not impressive.
2 States and Dear Zindagi. for setting up preposterous action scenes The film is grandly mounted with excellent
Alia is currently busy promoting her and then cutting away from them so quickly production values. The cinematography is of
forthcoming entertainer Badrinath Ki Dul- that you cant help but chuckle in disgust. fine quality, the background score which most-
Alia will next be seen in hania and said that, like her previous work, As for the action sequences, there are plen- ly consists of a rock-n-roll beat, makes the film
Badrinath Ki Dulhania. doing this film was also a challenge for her. ty, and they suffer the same fate. Karan just seem like a frothy and laidback entertainer.
BOLLYwOOD March 11-17, 2017 19

Need hair on chest to play


Karan Johar
became a father Wolverine, quips SRK
H
to twins born ollywood star Hugh Jackman feels Shah He has reprised his role as The Wolver-
through a Rukh Khan can take forward the baton ine for one final time in Logan. During
surrogate. to play his popular The Wolverine character. the film promotion activity in Taiwan,
And the Bollywood superstar feels he first Jackman had said that maybe Shah Rukh
needs hair on the chest to look convincing. Khan can play him.
Jackman has essayed the role of the Reacting to a post by a fan on Twitter
superhero mutant with a heart of gold in which said why she wants Shah Rukh to play
The Wolverine film saga, which started Wolverine, SRK posted: Hair on the chest
17 years ago. The actor has appeared as lady Need hair on the chest!! Working on it
Wolverine in nine of the X-Men sagas. though. Love Hugh and Wolverine.

Karan Johar becomes


father to twins via
surrogacy
B ollywoods celebrated filmmaker Karan
Johar announced he feels enormously
blessed to have become a father to twins via
dren are my world and priority.
In his book An Unsuitable Boy, Karan not
just opened up about his sexuality -- albeit
surrogacy. Celebrities like actress Priyanka in a veiled manner -- but also expressed a
Chopra and choreographer-filmmaker Farah desire to adopt a child or opt for surrogacy.
Khan congratulated him on the happy news. The filmmaker, who keeps travelling
The daughter has been named Roohi -- a around the world and is known for his
rearrangement of Karans mothers name knack of making romantic dramas, under-
Hiroo, and the son has been christened stands that having children would mean
Yash -- after Karans late father. that work, travels and social commit- Hugh Jackman has appeared as Wolverine in nine of the X-Men sagas.
Karan, 44, said: I am ecstatic to share ments would have to take a back seat.
with you all the two most wonderful addi- Karan also extended gratefulness to the

I was overweight, very shy


tions to my life, my children and lifelines: surrogate who fulfilled his lifelong dream
Roohi and Yash. I feel enormously blessed and provided a warm, loving and nurturing

Viola Davis
to be a parent to these pieces of my heart environment to my children before bring-
who were welcomed into this world with ing them into this world.
the help of the marvels of medical science. Actors Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and
He says parenthood is an emotional yet Sidharth Malhotra are thrilled with the
well thought out decision he has taken af- new additions to the family of Karan, who
ter considering all the responsibilities and
duties that come with being one.
launched their acting career in 2012 with
his directorial Student of the Year.
Fences star Viola Davis, who won an
Oscar in the Best Supporting Actress
category, says it was only last year that she Viola flaunts her
In order to arrive at this decision, I have Farah, who has triplets with husband
Oscar win.
began to feel fully confident in her skin.
prepared myself mentally, physically, emo- Shirish Kunder through IVF, is glad Karan
My confidence took time. It really did,
tionally and logistically to ensure that my finally took her advice seriously. Best thing
to come into myself, people.com quoted
children get all the unconditional love, care to happen to you and theyll be the youngest
the 51-year-old as saying.
and attention from me and mine. people you hang out with, so alls good, said
She added: At first, I just wanted to try
I have submitted to the fact that my chil- Farah, who had children at the age of 43.
really hard to make people see that I was
pretty, that I wasnt just the drug addict
from (the 2002 drama) Antoine Fisher, so it

Javed Akhtar is was about proving something to someone.


She said: I was one of those people that

part of Manto,
everyone knew, but I didnt have a lot of
friends. I didnt date or do any of that stuff.
I was overweight and very, very shy.
reveals Nandita Das Davis, who grew up in extreme poverty,
added that she was definitely not a snazzy
Manto will be directed dresser and definitely didnt wear make-up.
by Nandita Das.

A ctress-filmmaker Nandita Das says


veteran writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar
Ittefaq an adaptation,
not a remake: Sidharth
is part of her directorial Manto, a
biopic on late writer Saadat Hasan
Manto. My next movie is titled
Manto. Preparations are
going on, Shabana Azmi B ollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra
says his upcoming film Ittefaq is an
adaptation of the 1969 released Rajesh
murder mystery genre, Sidharth said at the
launch of New Era cap collection on online
shopping website Jabong.com on Friday.
is acting in it and it is a
secret but Javed Akhtar is also part of the mov- The film will be tracing the life of Manto Khanna and Nanda starrer movie, and not The Baar Baar Dekho actor didnt want
ie, Nandita said on the sidelines of an event at the time of the India-Pakistan Partition. a remake. to reveal details about the film.
by Shabanas NGO Mijwan Welfare Society. Currently, Nawazuddin is preparing for Ittefaq is a murder mystery just like the Lets keep the mystery as it is a murder
Manto features Nawazuddin Siddiqui the film and, in fact, he has already done old one. I would say we are not remaking it. mystery. I hope people will like our effort,
as the prolific short story writer, and Ra- costume tests for the role and shared the We are adapting it to look more engaging in said the actor, who made his debut with
sika Dugal essays his wife. first look of him as Manto on social media. todays time. Ittefaq is a true homage to the Karan Johars Student of the Year.
20 March 11-17, 2017 INDIA TheSouthAsianTimes.info

MPs concerned over killing of Indians in US


New Delhi: Racial discrimination Dal leader Bhartruhari Mahtab protest from the Congress benches,
against Indians and the recent sought to know from the govern with MPs voicing opposition to the
killings in the US figured in the Lok ment why Indians are getting killed statement.
Sabha, with Congress leader there. CPIM leader Mohammad Salim
Mallikarjun Kharge saying it has "The Indian government should blamed it on the atmosphere of
started happening after Donald force the US government to take hatred created during the US elec
Trump took over as President of the action," he said. tions.
US. Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) "We should understand, when we
As opposition members across member A.P. Jithender Reddy create an atmosphere of hate it
party lines accused the government blamed the "America for Americans" remains there."
of inaction and failure in taking call given by Trump for the rise in Salim also called it a failure of
care of its diaspora, Union Home such incidents. diplomacy. Rajnath Singh also said
Minister Rajnath Singh assured the Shiromani Akali Dal leader Prem that as External Af fairs Minister
members that the government is Singh Chandumajra said that such Sushma Swaraj is unwell, a detailed
taking the issue very seriously and incidents of killings of Indians in statement will be given in the
also promised that a statement the US and other parts of world are House next week.
would be made in Parliament in the The members were voicing concern over the killing of Indian engineer not new. The members were voicing con
Srinivas Kuchibhotla in Kansas on February 22.
coming week. "There have been racial attacks cern over the killing of Indian engi
Kharge, raising the issue, said: diaspora," he said. Their parents in India are worried," on Indians in US in the past. neer Srinivas Kuchibhotla in Kansas
"Indians in the US are being killed, The Congress leader said Prime Kharge said. Government should take it serious on February 22 in an apparent hate
threatened, asked to leave the coun Minister Narendra Modi should "Prime Minister reacts on tweets ly," he said. crime, and of another Indian
try while our government remains speak on the issue. on every issue. But why is he silent He also alleged that when France Harnish Patel a week later. A Sikh
silent." "Why is the government silent on on this. He must answer and should banned turbans, they had met then man, Deep Rai, who was an
"This has started after (Donald) this issue. Around 1.70 lakh Indian share the details of its plan to stop Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, American citizen, was fired at in a
Trump became the President (of the students are there for studies. such attacks," he said. but he told them India would not racial attack last week, and is out of
US). The Indian government has Lakhs of Indians are there for work Expressing his deep concern over make France an enemy for a turban. danger. US President has con
failed to ensure the safety of its purposes. They are being targeted. the killing of Indians, Biju Janata T he statement led to a brief demned the Kansas shooting.

Ajmer shrine blast: DU professor Saibaba gets


Aseemanand, 6 others life term for Maoist links
acquitted Gadchiroli (Maharashtra):
Suspended De lhi
University professor G.N.
Saibaba and four others
who had been earlier con
victed on charges of hav
ing Maoist links were
sentenced to undergo life
imprisonment by the
Sessions Court here, of fi
cials said.
The wheelchairbound
English teacher of Ram Lal
Anand College in Delhi,
Saibaba, 47, was arrested
from the capital in May
2014 by Maharashtra's
Delhi University professor G.N. Saibaba.
AntiNaxal Operations (ANO) unit. Mishra, Tirki and Narote went into the
Earlier, Saibaba, with 90 percent dis deep forests of Gadchiroli in Maharashtra
ability, was lodged in Nagpur jail but got to meet Narmada Akka, a top Maoist
RSS leader Swami Aseemanand (left).
bail from the Supreme Court on medical commander, who handed over Rs
Jaipur: A court has acquitted RSS leader Activities (Prevention) Act. "The judge will g rounds in April 2016 which also 500,000, which was delivered to Saibaba
Swami Aseemanand and six others in the pronounce its judgment after hearing my exempted him from personal appearance to propagate Maoist ideology in the
Ajmer Sharif Dargah blast case of 2007 arguments on March 16," said Public in view of his deteriorating health. urban setting.
while convicting three other accused. Prosecutor Ashwani Kumar Sharma. Another convict was awarded a 10year Public Prosecutor Prashant
T he special Nat ional Invest ig at ion Three of the total 13 accused are still jail term by Additional Sessions Judge Satgianathan produced 23 witnesses and
Agency (NIA) court convicted Bhavesh missing and on the run. Suryakant S. Shinde. 41 articles, including data retrieved from
Patel, Devendra Gupta and Sunil Joshi Three persons were killed and at least 15 All the accused have been convicted hard disks found at Saibaba's residence.
(now dead) and fixed March 16 for pro others injured when a bomb exploded under the UAPA Sections 13, 18, 20, 38 Satgianathan said that in 2012, Saibaba
nouncement of the sentence. around 6.15 p.m. on October 11, 2007, and 39 pertaining to conspiracy, having and others had part icipated in a
"The judge has convicted Bhavesh Bhai inside the premises of the shrine of Sufi links with terrorist groups and support conference of the Revolut ionery
Patel, Devendra Gupta and Sunil Joshi in saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti. ing the outlawed Maoists. Democratic Front, a Maoist frontal group
the case. Sunil Joshi has already died," Initially, police had blamed Islamic terror The others convicted are Jawaharlal which is banned in Andhra Pradesh and
Jagdish Rana, advo cate for Swami groups for the blast, but later a confession Nehru University student Hem Mishra, Odisha.
Aseemanand, told IANS, adding that all by Aseemanand shifted the focus of the former journalist Prashant Rahi (both In his speech as deputy joint secretary,
others have been acquitted. probe towards Hindutva groups. nabbed in 2013), Mahesh Tirki, Pandu Saibaba had said that Naxalism was the
The court has found three guilty under According to the NIA chargesheet, Narote (all sentence to life) and Vijay only route and denounced the democrat
sections 120 B (criminal conspiracy), 295A Aseemanand, Gupta, Chandrashekhar Leve, Tirki, who will serve a 10year term. ic system.
(Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to Mukesh Vasani, Bharat Mohan Rateshwar, The ANO said they found incriminating The videos of his speeches were played
outrage religious feelings of any class by Lokesh Sharma, Harshad Solanki, Patel, documents, pen drives, memory cards in the court and the prosecution said
insulting its religion or religious beliefs) of Sunil Joshi and others were accused of and CDs which contained vital informa Saibaba was in contact with Maoist
the Indian Penal Code, various sections of planting and exploding bombs inside the tion about the banned Maoist groups. groups in neighboring countries like
Explosive Substances Act and Unlawful Ajmer shrine and murder. T he prosecut ion contended that Nepal and Sri Lanka.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info INDIA March 11-17, 2017 21

Over 60% voting in UP,


Manipur records 86%
'Hung assembly in UP,
AAP win in Punjab'
New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh is expect
ed to throw up a hung assembly
while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)
is set to take power in Punjab, an
India TVCVoter exit poll said on
March 9.
Uttarakhand is also tipped to get
hung assembly while the Bharatiya
Janata Party (BJP) could edge out
the Congress in both Goa and
Manipur, the exit poll findings
said. Elections in the five states
Voters a queue to cast their vote at a polling booth in Bhadohi, Uttar
took place between February 4
Pradesh on March 8. (Photo: IANS)
and March 8.
New Delhi/Lucknow/Imphal: Over security reasons, polling was held Both the BJP and the Samajwadi
sixty per cent polling was reported here between 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. unlike PartyCongress combine were
across seven districts of Uttar other places where voting was locked in a close contest in Uttar
Pradesh for 40 assembly seats in underway till 5 p.m. and people in Pradesh and the Bahujan Samaj
The BJP could get 155167 seats, the SamajwadiCongress alliance
the final phase of state assembly the queue were also allowed to cast Party (BSP) will come third, it said.
135147 seats and the BSP 8193 seats in UP.
elections, while 86 per cent votes their votes. T he BJP could get 155167
were cast in the second and final Bhadohi, known for its high car seats, the SamajwadiCongress to 67 of the 117 assembly seats, it seats in the 70member assembly,
phase of the Manipur Assembly pet exports, logged a poor 57.9 and alliance 135147 seats and the said. it said.
elections. so did Ghazipur where only 59 per BSP 8193 seats. The majority The Congress could come second Goa may get a hung assembly,
The seventh phase saw 60.03 per cent votes were cast. The Prime mark in the 403member state with 4149 seats and the ruling but the BJP was expected to win
cent balloting, bringing to an end Minister during his roadshows in assembly is 202 seats. Akali DalBJP combine was project 1521 seats, the Congress and its
the longdrawn polling process for Varanasi had appealed to the peo The BJP is projected to get 33.4 ed to finish with just 513 seats. allies 1218 and the AAP 04 seats.
the 17th Vidhan Sabha. ple of Poorvanchal to turn up in per cent of all votes followed by In Uttarakhand, both the BJP and In Manipur, the BJP is projected
Heavy balloting was logged in the large numbers and vote for 'parivar the SPCongress (32.3), the BSP Congress were neck and neck and to win within a range of 2531 of
last phase in all the 40 seats spread tan' (change). Buoyed by the high (24.3) and 'Others' 10 per cent. may fall short of majority, the exit the 60 seats in the assembly, with
across seven districts in the turnout, state BJP leaders said it In Punjab, the AAP is projected polls said. the ruling Congress trailing at 17
Poorvanchal region, with the Maoist was a signal that the people had dis to form a government winning 59 The two parties could win 2935 23, it said.
infested areas also doing exceeding missed the incumbent Samajwadi

'Government, Lok Sabha


ly well in terms of participation in Party and were yearning for change
the electoral process. Varanasi, the and that they had voted for good
political constituency of Prime governance promised by the BJP.

sympathizes with
Minister Narendra Modi, saw 63 "The polling in Uttar Pradesh
per cent polling while neighbouring passed of peacefully without any
Mirzapur recorded 62.6 per cent. untoward incident," Deputy Election

Saifullah's father'
While 61.35 per cent voting was Commissioner Vijay Dev told media
registered in Jaunpur, 63.78 per in New Delhi.
cent was reported in Chandauli and Out of total number of 535 candi
62.5 per cent in Sonebhadra, which dates, 51 were women candidates, New Delhi: Union Home Minister
is part of the Maoist belt. Due to he said. Rajnath Singh said the government
and the Lok Sabha sympathises

Killing of Indian fisherman with Sartaj, the father of a slain


terror suspect who refused to

raised in Lok Sabha accept the body of his "traitor" son.


Making a statement in the Lok
Sabha on the blast in a Bhopal
New Delhi: Members in the Lok Tharoor said that Indian fisher
Ujjain passenger train and subse
Sabha raised the issue of the men were also being arrested by
quent antiterror operations in
killing of an Indian fisherman Pakistan's Navy and recently,
Lucknow, Rajnath Singh also said
allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy, Indian fishermen were taken in
that the antiterror operations had
and sought action from the gov custody in the British Indian
helped "successfully avert" a possi
ernment. Raising the issue in the Ocean Territory (BIOT) of Diego
ble threat to national security and
lower house, AIADMK leader M. Garcia, an archipe lago of 55
that further probe would be hand
Thambidurai said the fishermen islands in the Indian Ocean south
ed over to the Nat ional Security personnel deployed outside the house where a gunfight
community was in "shock" over of India.
Investigation Agency. between a suspected IS operative and commandos was
the killing. "Fish stock near the shore has
Referring to the shootout in underway in Lucknow. (Photo: IANS)
He also said that Indian fisher depleted, so fishermen go into
Lucknow in which Saifullah was
men are regularly troubled by the deep waters. Modernization of
killed after nearly 12hours long my life for my family, but this boy "self radicalised" and he along with
Sri Lankan Navy who at times also fishing infrastructure is urgently
gun battle with police, the Home has shamed me. I sympathise with others including five who have
take away their fishing equipment. required," he said.
Minister spoke about the youth's the father of Saifullah, I am sure been arrested were trying to build
The AIADMK member also urged Six fishermen from
father who on Wednesday said he the whole House sympathises with an Islamic State Khorasan module
the central government to resolve T hangachimadam in
did not want to take the body. him," the Minister said. in the city.
the issue around the Katchatheevu Ramanathapuram district were
So far six arrests have been "He (Sartaj) had to lose a son. Saifullah hailed from Kanpur. His
island, which was ceded to Sri fishing near the Katchatheevu islet
made related to the train blast, the The government is proud of such father Sartaj said that Saifullah had
Lanka. in the narrow sea dividing the two
Minister informed Lok Sabha. people, the whole House is proud left home around two and a half
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor countries when they were fired at
"When the Uttar Pradesh police of such people," the Minister said, months back after being scolded
said urgent action needed to be on Monday night, Indian officials
met his father to hand over the as members from both treasury and beaten by his father for not
taken for the fishermen communi said. One fisherman, K. Britjo, was
body, Sartaj said one who could and opposition benches joined him working.
ty who are losing their livelihood killed. Another who was injured
not be faithful to his country, was by thumping their desks. "W hat he has done is not in
as the fish catch close to the shore was warded in a hospital in Tamil
no one for him," Rajnath Singh said Saifullah, who was killed in the national interest. We will not take
was depleted, and the fishermen Nadu. The others escaped without
in the House. wee hours of Wednesday in the dead body of such a traitor,"
are forced to go into deep waters. injuries.
"He said I have worked hard all Lucknow, was according to police Sartaj had said in Kanpur.
22 March 11-17, 2017 DIASPORA TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Indian man assaulted in New Zealand Wish I had enough funds to


Wellington: An Indian national
here has said that he was assault
airlift all Indian patients
ed, spat at and subjected to a racist
tirade during a road rage incident
from abroad: Sushma Swaraj
in Auckland city, a media report
New Delhi: Bombarded with
said. One needs to be only
requests to airlift patients from
Narindervir Singh said that he Indian, she tweeted in
dif ferent countries, External
was filming from inside his vehicle
when the incident happened last
Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj response to a comment
on Wednesday expressed her
week, reported local news service that to avail any
inability to accede to such
Newshub on Monday. facility one needs
demands.
"I gave him a space ... that lady
I receive many requests for Air to be a Muslim
gave me the finger. He was driving
ambulance from Indian abroad,"
that car (point ing to a white
Ms Swaraj tweeted while tag
Holden) and now he's trying to The victim was abused, sworn at and told to go back to his own country ging a Twitterati who wanted 23
threaten me, g iving me bad
lakh rupees for an air ambu
names," Singh said in the video, hurts my heart ... The first thing in than a decade.
lance.
which was being streamed live on my mind was that he might hurt "[It made me feel] so sad because
"I wish I had enough funds to
Facebook. me with some weapon." New Zealand is so beautiful there
airlift all Indian patients from
After Singh informed the driver When Singh left, he assumed it are lovely people here."
various countries of the world,"
that he's uploading the video live, was all over. But when he parked The man who hurled abuse at
she said.
the situation escalated and Singh on a nearby side street, he said the Bikramjit ended up apologizing in
Swaraj also retweeted some of
was abused, sworn at and told to white Holden pulled up once again an email. However, those who
the requests she has received
go back to his own country, the and the racist rant continued. work with migrants say such dis
over the past few months.
report said. Another man, Bikramjit Singh, crimination appears to be increas
Her comments also come in
The abuser, who is seen in video suffered similar abuse last week as ing, said the report.
the backdrop of criticism by a
wearing a grey tshirt, was tailgat he left a Papatoetoe storage facili "We are seeing it much more
twitterati after she tweeted on
ing according to Singh, who said ty, reported Newshub. openly which is a very serious con
Monday about a crash of an air
he simply pulled over to let him A man who claimed Bikramjit cern," said Anu Kaloti from the
ambulance near Bangkok and
pass. The man also made derogato was speeding yelled at him, saying: Migrant Workers Association.
the death of its pilot.
ry remarks about Punjabi people, "Go back to your f*****g country "I think societies are becoming
The Minister also rejected sug
Newshub report said. slow down! You know what the more and more intolerant, espe
gestion that to avail any facility
"It really shocked me and after speed limit is here." cially since Trump was elected
one needs to be a Muslim. comment that to avail any facili
he [left], I was really shaken," However, Bikramjit said he was President of the US."
One needs to be only Indian, ty one needs to be a Muslim.
Singh told the news service. n't speeding, is a New Zealand citi Both men have filed their com
she tweeted in response to a (PTI)
"I don't know what to do, it really zen and has lived here for more plaints with the police. (IANS)

IndianCanadian
Pradeep Nair named Ford Foundation denied entry to US
Toronto: An Indian origin Canadian

regional director for subcontinent citizen was barred from entering


the US and told to get an immigrant
visa if she wanted to cross the bor
New York: Pradeep Nair, who previ Ford Foundation. Nair joins the Ford mental policies. The success of this der. Manpreet Kooner, who lives in
ously headed then US President Bill Foundation with an impressive work was highlighted by President Canadian city of Montreal, said she
Clinton's Climate Initiative in India, record of guiding the growth and Clinton at the United Nation", the was refused entry at a crossing
was on Wednesday named The Ford development of regional institu statement said. along the QuebecVermont border
Foundation regional director for its tions. As India country director of Nair has taught development proj on Sunday after a sixhour wait
office serving India, Nepal, and Sri the USbased Institute for ect financing at business schools in where she was fingerprinted, pho
Lanka. "A seasoned public and pri Sustainable Communities, he estab India and mentored entrepreneurs tographed and questioned before
vate sector leader, Nair brings deep lished the organisation's India office in engineering colleges. He most being refused, The Huffington Post
regional expertise and more than 20 and was instrumental in forming recently served as program director (Canada) reported. Ms Kooner, 39,
years of experience building part strong relationships with the Indian of the USbased Volcker Alliance, said that the officials told her that
nerships among government, corpo government, the private sector and where he played a critical role in she was an immigrant without a
rate, philanthropic, and civil society NGO communities across Asia. shaping the organization's mission valid US visa, and claimed that the
Pradeep Nair
partners in the dynamic South Asia As head of Clinton's Climate and drove partnerships with govern border agent told her, "I know you
(Image : windowtonews.com)
region," a Ford Foundation state Initiative in India, Nair "helped to ment to improve public sector effec might fee l like you're being
ment said. tered branch office," the statement grow the regional chapter of the tiveness. Nair holds an MBA in Trumped". "Unbelievable. Refused
Nair will guide the foundation's added. global cities network, chaired by for finance from Karnataka University, entry to the States. Because I'm
operations in New Delhi with a staff Nair's global experience and lead mer New York City Mayor Michael an engineering degree in electronics apparently an immigrant who now
of more than 30. "Following a peri ership "and his expertise in building Bloomberg. He also helped to foster from Bharathiar University, and has requires a visa to enter the States.
od of renewal, he assumes leader partnerships in the region will be a the first investments in clean energy also studied filmmaking. He began While informing me that I cannot
ship over a revised program focus great asset as our work in South by India's large state governments, his career with the management enter the States. The office told me
that represents a fresh start for the Asia enters a new chapter," said and advised national government consulting firm Deloitte in Silicon 'I've been trumped'", she wrote on
foundation and its recently regis Darren Walker, president of the agencies on key health and environ Valley. her Facebook Page.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info SUBCONTINENT March 11-17, 2017 23

Pak not to extradite Sri Lanka denies shooting


Indian fishermen
Kulbhushan Jadhav
Islamabad: Pakistan's top foreign activities," he said.
policy advisor Sartaj Aziz ruled "The government is also exam
out extradition of alleged Indian ining the possibility of sharing
spy Kulbhushan Jadhav, saying the dossier with other countries
categorically "There is no such and international organizations,"
possibility." he added.
Brie fing lawmakers in the Explaining the details of the
Senate, Prime Minister Nawaz dossier presented to the UN, Aziz
Sharif 's Adviser on Foreign said it was based on thorough
Affairs Aziz rejected reports that ground work and inputs from
Jadhav will be released at some various departments. "This is a
stage. Aziz said a case was being very delicate and sensitive issue
prepared to prosecute Jadhav, and requires detailed prepara The issue of fishermen arrests between India and Sri Lanka has
who was arrested from t ions and home work as it dragged on for several years.
Balochistan in March last year. re lates to direct or indirect
Colombo: Sri Lanka said its Navy Indian fishermen in a humane
Aziz said "It has never been involvement of Indian state actor
Aziz was briefing lawmakers did not kill an Indian fisherman manner at all times," it said.
said that there was any lack of in subversive and terrorist activi
in the Senate. but added the killing in the sea "Initial investigations indicate
evidence against Jadhav". ties in Pakistan," he added.
ties in Pakistan," Aziz told the dividing the two countries was "a that the Sri Lanka Navy is not
Jadhav in a video had "con Claiming that Pakistan's view
Senate in response to a query matter of deep concern". involved in this alleged incident,"
fessed" that he was working for point on the issue of Indian
during question hour, according A Foreign Ministry statement the ministry said in a statement.
India's Research and Analysis involvement was being accepted
to the Asso ciated Press of said Colombo was deeply con "Irrespective of the parties
Wing (RAW) to create instability internationally, he said the gov
Pakistan. The Foreign Af fairs cerned over the shooting that involved, if in fact a shooting has
in Pakistan, part icularly in ernment also sent a list of ques
Adviser also said that a dossier killed a fishermen and wounded taken place, it is a matter of
Balochistan and Karachi, which tions to New Delhi on the matter.
has been shared with United another from Tamil Nadu. grave concern, and all possible
India has denied. "Dossier is not the only route
Nations Secretary General on "The safety of fishermen is of action will be taken, in coopera
"We have prepared an FIR and to deal with this issue as actual
"Indian involvement" in the utmost importance and the gov tion with Indian authorities, to
a case is in the process of regis route to settle this issue is prose
internal affairs of Pakistan. "This ernment of Sri Lanka is firm in its investigate this incident, utilizing
tration to prosecute the Indian cut ion for which the case is
dossier includes details about commitment to ensuring that all GPS technology as we ll," the
state actor for involvement in being prepared," the adviser
Kulbhushan Jad hav and his government agencies treat all statement said.
subversive and terrorist activi explained.

Nepal's Terai tense, curfew US mentions India


imposed in Madhes area in South Asia
Kathmandu: Curfew was imposed
in Nepal's Terai and Mad hes
regions in view of the prevailing
travel warning
tension there since the death of
three Madhesi Morcha cadres in a Washington: The US has issued facilities, citizens, and interests.
clash between security forces on a travel warning to its citizens US citizens should avoid travel
the previous day. visiting Pakistan, Afghanistan to Afghanistan, as no region in
Sporadic protests and demon and Bang ladesh and said the country is immune from
strations took place in several extremist elements are also violence," the US State
parts of Nepal's southern region in "active" in India. Department said in its world
reaction to the deaths. An alliance The warning came on a day wide caution. "A number of
of Madhesbased parties has called President Donald Trump's established terrorist organiza
for a twoday strike to protest administration issued a new tions, indigenous sectarian
against the killings. executive order temporarily groups, and other militants
Public transport, factories, indus barring citizens of six Muslim pose a danger to US citizens in
A protest by Madhesis in Nepal. majority nations from entering Pakistan." "Extremist elements
tries and educational institutions
were badly hit, as irate Morcha Nepal Telecom of fice, and also compensation to the deceased and the United States but exempted are also active in India, as out
cadres held demonstrations and damaged a National Human Rights bear all costs incurred on the treat those with valid visas. lined in a recent emergency
burned tyres in Rajbiraj the Commission vehicle, police said. ment of the injured," said Prime "The US government assesses message. Terrorists have hit a
headquarters of Saptari district. In view of the violent protests, Minister Prachanda. terrorist groups in South Asia wide variety of targets and
Markets in Bhardaha, Kanchanpur, security has been beefed up at the Three Morcha cadres died and at may be planning attacks in the institutions in Bangladesh," the
Rupani and Kalyanpur areas District Court, DAO, District Police least two dozen were injured in region, possibly against US advisory stated.
remained shut during the day. Of fice and the District Land police firing when the alliance of
Hundreds of protestors took to Revenue Of fice. Prime Minister the Madhesbased parties attempt
the streets and chanted slogans Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', ed to disrupt the MechiMahakali
demanding compensation to the meanwhile, called a meeting of campaign of the secondlargest
kin of the deceased, medical treat Home Minister Bimalendra Nidhi party, CPNUML, in the Rajbiraj
ment to the injured, declaration of and security chiefs and urged them industrial zone.
the deceased as martyrs and action to exercise restraint while using According to the Morcha, seven
against the guilty. force. After the meeting, the Home of the injured demonstrators were
They vandalized the Communist Minister called the Chief District in critical condition. They were
Party of Nepal (Unified Marxists Officer and local security chiefs of undergoing treatment at the
Leninists) [CPNUML] regional Saptari district to the national cap Dharanbased B.P. Koirala Institute
of fice at Lahan Municipality1, ital for clarification. of Health Sciences, while others
g heraoed Saptari District "I am really saddened by the were being treated at the Gajendra
Administration Of fice (DAO), ran tragic incident that took place in Narayan Singh Sagarmatha Zonal
sacked Rajbiraj Municipality and Saptari. The government will pay Hospital in Rajbiraj.
24 March 11-17, 2017 INTERNATIONAL TheSouthAsianTimes.info

France's Fillon refuses 'China won't let South


China Sea stability
to quit presidential race be disturbed'
Paris: Beleaguered French politi
Beijing: China will never allow "Even between China and the
cian Francois Fillon declared "no
hardwon stability in the South US, if we change our mindset, the
one can stop" his bid for the presi
China Sea to be disturbed or vast ocean will become a broad
dency after a mass rally attended
undermined again, Foreign stage of cooperation," he said.
by thousands in Paris.
Minister Wang Yi said. The Declaration on the Conduct
T he centrerig ht candidate
The situation in the South China (DOC) of Parties in the South
insisted he would not be standing
Sea has calmed down visibly due China Sea is being implemented in
down during an interview on
to the joint ef forts of China and a full and effective way, and the
French television, despite growing
the Association of Southeast Asian concerned parties are returning
calls for him to quit the race, BBC
Nations (Asean) countries, Xinhua to the right track of settling their
reported.
news agency quoted Wang as say disputes through dialogue and
Fillon, 63, faces a criminal inves
ing. He said the stability in the consultation, he said.
tigation over payments made to
South China Sea is a blessing to China and the Asean are
family members. He suf fered a
the region and the world. "If advancing the consultation on the
severe setback after T he
someone should try to make Code of Conduct in the South
Republicans party senior chiefs
waves and stir trouble, they will China Sea (COC) to work out com
suspended their support for his
The centreright candidate faces a criminal investigation. have no support and face com mon regional rules. Wang said
bid and are mulling a Plan B in
mon opposition of the entire China, the US and Russia should
which the moderate conservative would propose an alternative can replaced by Juppe, his rival in the region." According to Wang, China work together and pursue win
Alain Juppe is well placed to rep didate in the coming hours. primaries last year. "If they had would like to see more maritime win outcomes. In the new era, the
resent the rightwing party in the However, he said it was impor wanted Alain Juppe's project, then cooperation and greater trust ChinaUSRussia relations should
upcoming presidential election. tant "not to humiliate" Fillon and they would have voted for Alain between different parties. not be a "seesaw" game.
Fillon had earlier told tens of allow him a "dignified" way out. Juppe in that election," Fillon said.
thousands of supporters he would But Fillon was in a defiant mood "No one has the power to force
be cleared over allegations he had during in an interview on French me to withdraw... It is not the
paid his family for work they did television network France 2 on party that will decide. It's not
not do. Sunday evening. regional presidents or former pri
These allegations have resulted "No one today can stop me being mary candidates who will make
in Fillon's popularity slipping in a candidate," BBC quoted him as the decision for me," Xinhua news
opinion polls. saying. He said he was "not autis agency quoted Fillon as saying on
Just before the rally Christian tic" and was able to listen to criti France 2.
Estrosi, a close ally of former cism and understand the difficul "It's not behind the scenes that
President Nicolas Sarkozy, told ties his campaign faced. However, things will happen, but before the
BFMTV that senior Republicans China lays claim to almost all of the resourcerich South China Sea.
he re jected the idea of being French," he added.

N Korea slaps temporary


exit ban on Malaysians
Seoul: North Korea issued a tem
porary ban on all Malaysians
from leaving the country, amid a
diplomatic row between the two
Iraqi special forces seen on the eastern side of Mosul. countries over the death of
Pyongyang leader's half brother
in Kuala Lumpur, a media report

IRAQI FORCES RECAPTURE said.


T he Korean Central News

GOVT BUILDINGS IN MOSUL


Agency (KCNA) in the report said
the Foreign Ministry notified the
Malaysian Embassy in Pyongyang
that it will not permit Malaysians
Mosul: Iraqi security forces dis foot of a strategic bridge across
staying in North Korea to leave
lodged Islamic State (IS) militants the Tigris River, known as Al
the country until the safety of
from main government buildings Hurriyah Bridge and the adjacent
North Korean diplomats and citi Police cordon off the North Korean embassy i in Kuala Lumpur.
in Mosul city. municipality building, as well as
zens in Malaysia is "fully guaran
The federal police and interior the building of the central bank,
teed through the fair settlement Star daily reported cit ing regular North Korean citizens in
ministry special forces after a provincial security source told
of the case". Malaysian Home Affairs minister Malaysia will be allowed to leave
overnight clashes with militants Xinhua on anonymity.
It said that Malaysians in North Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as saying in the country.
managed to free large parts of The Mosul museum is com
Korea will be able to live normally a media briefing. Immediate ly after his
the neighborhoods of Dawassa pletely destroyed and leveled to
under the same conditions as "The Home Ministry has made a announcement, police surround
and Dandan. the ground. ISIS militants have
they did be fore, despite ruling, effective immediately, that ed and cordoned of f the North
The forces recaptured the judi looted and destroyed the muse
Pyongyang's interim ban, Yonhap not one staf f member or of ficer Korean Embassy in Kuala
cial government complex, Mosul um artifacts and have rigged
News Agency reported. of the (North Korean) embassy Lumpur.
Museum, court buildings and explosives around the buildings
In a titfortar response, the can leave the country...This will A total of 11 Malaysians includ
Nineveh police directorate build and leveled it to the ground,
Malaysian Government has also be made effective at all immigra ing three embassy staff and their
ing, Lt. Gen. AbdulAmir Yarallah, Abde l Amir alMohamadi,
banned North Korean embassy tion exits nationwide," he added. families, are stranded in
from the Joint Operat ions Commander of the Rapid
staf f and of ficers from leaving Ahmad Zahid also confirmed Pyongyang, says Deputy Foreign
Command said in a statement. Response Forces of the Iraqi
the country. "We don't mean to do that the travel ban only applies to Minister Reezal Merican Naina
The troops also captured the Federal Police, told CNN.
this, but it needs to be done," The the diplomatic staff, and that that Merican.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info BUSINESS March 11-17, 2017 25

Finance Bill to be passed before March 31: Jaitley


New Delhi: The Finance Bill will 2017 and also applauded the
be passed by Parliament before efforts that went into bringing it
March 31 to enable ministries to out within a short span of time.
avail funds from April 1, Finance In his speech at the conference,
Minister Arun Jaitley said. Finance Secretary Ashok Lavasa
"This would help the ministries said that the Revised GFR 2017
to remain in stage of readiness as aims to provide a framework
funds would be available with within which an organisation
ef fect from April 1," he said at manages its business in a finan
the conference of financial advi cially prudent manner without
sors here. compromising its flexibility to
He stressed on the challenges deal with varied situations.
lying ahead for the government "The new GFR 2017 will enable
as a whole to ensure that expen an improved, efficient and effec
diture on schemes and projects tive framework of fiscal manage
should start from the beginning ment while providing the neces
of the financial year to leverage sary flexibility to facilitate timely
the early passing of the Budget. delivery of services," he said.
The Finance Bill is introduced The Finance Bill is introduced in the Lok Sabha, after the presentation of the annual budget. The GFRs are rules and orders
in the Lok Sabha, after the pres dealing with matters involving
entation of the annual budget, to enables the government to enact ing challenges for businesses to the financial year. This could be public finances. General
implement the financial propos many proposals including excise, make changes in between the seen as a step towards ease of Financial Rules were issued for
als for the following financial customs and service tax related year. Now, if the Bill is passed in doing business," tax expert the first time in 1947 bringing
year. proposals. March, then like income tax, even Pritam Mahure told IANS. together in one place all existing
Once passed by Parliament and "Earlier the Finance Bill used to indirect tax changes could be Jaitley also released the revised orders and instructions pertain
assent is given by President, it be passed in May or June, creat effective from very first month of General Financial Rules (GFR) ing to financial matters.

Modi hopes for Minimum balance penalty INDIA'S GOLD


'breakthrough' to offset costs of Jan Dhan DEMAND MAY TOUCH
on GST 650750 TONS IN 2017
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
accounts: SBI New Delhi: India's gold market, facing shortterm
headwinds following the demonetization and intro
Mumbai: Providing a rationale
has exuded confidence on the passage of duction of excise duty, will recover on the back of gold
for reintroducing penalty for
the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Bill in demand, which is expected to be around 650750
nonmaintenance of minimum
the Budget session of Parliament which tonnes in 2017, a World Gold Council (WGC) report
balance in its savings accounts
resumed on Thursday. said.
from April 1, State Bank of India
"There will be detailed discussion on the "India's gold demand has fallen sharply in the past,
chief Arundhati Bhattacharya
Budget and I am sure the level of debate but has then recovered. Previous attempts by the
on Wednesday said the public
and discussion will be of good quality. It authorities to clamp down on gold have failed: Gold is
sector lender needs funds to
will be focused on the issues pertaining to too intimately ingrained in Indian society. On balance,
balance the oeprational costs of
the welfare of the poor," Modi told the while demand is likely to improve, our view for 2017
Jan Dhan accounts. "Now there
media. is cautious: we expect consumers to buy between 650
is a burden of a lot of things.
Citing positive response from the states tonnes and 750 tonnes," the report said. Over time,
We have 11 crore financial
and other political parties, Modi said he the council anticipated that economic growth and
inclusion accounts basic sav
hoped the GST, the country's biggest tax greater transparency within India's gold market
ings and Jan Dhan accounts
reform, would be in place by this session would push demand higher and by 2020, it sees
and have to manage them as
itself. Indian consumers buying between 850 tonnes and
well," Bhattacharya said on the
"We are hopeful of a breakthrough in 950 tonnes.
sidelines of a women entrepre State Bank of India Chairman
the GST. One of the reasons for our opti According to the WGC, India's gold industry suffered
neurs' national convention here. Arundhati Bhattacharya.
mism is that all the states have cooperated last year. In the first half, the one per cent excise duty
"SBI was the only bank that
in a positive manner. All the political par on jewelery manufacturing prompted a 42day strike
didn't have this as we have said that the bank has not
ties have also been extremely positive and and the income disclosure scheme disrupted the black
removed it in 2012," she said. received any formal request on
cooperative in their response," he added. market fearing a backlash from tax officials, some
This condition of maintaining this. T he SBI has made it
"We have been able to move forward in consumers postponed buying gold.
minimum balance will not be mandatory for savings accounts
this direction after arriving at a consensus "...the shock demonetization initiative caused a liq
applicable to the Jan Dhan in metropolitan areas to main
on certain decisions subsequent to uidity squeeze that af fected the entire economy.
accounts, she added. tain a minimum balance of Rs
detailed discussion on this issue in a dem These policies, combined with fragile rural sentiment
According to reports, the gov 5,000, Rs 3,000 in urban areas,
ocratic manner," the Prime Minister said. and a soaring gold price, pushed gold demand to its
ernment has asked SBI to recon Rs 2,000 in semiurban areas
"The efforts are on to enlist the coopera lowest level since 2009," the report pointed out.
sider its decision to levy the and Rs 1,000 in rural areas,
tion of all to ensure that the GST is in place It said that the ban on cash transactions over Rs 3
penalty, though Bhattacharya from April 1.
by this session," added Modi. lakh from April 2017 could hurt rural Indian demand.
26 March 11-17, 2017 SPORTS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

India beat Australia to


level Test series
Bengaluru: Star of fspinner Jadeja bagged a wicket each. with 269 scalps, behind Anil
Ravichandran Ashwin led with a The Australians found it dif fi Kumble, Kapil Dev, Harbhajan
sixwicket haul as India defeated cult to score against Jadeja who Singh and Zaheer Khan.
Australia by 75 runs with a day gave away only three runs in his "It was not coming out of the
to spare in the second cricket eight overs which included five hand all right. I was trying to
Test at the M Chinnaswamy maidens. turn it too hard. One good thing I
Stadium here. Ashwin is now the most suc did was when wickets were not
Chasing a target of 188 runs, cessful bowler in the 201617 coming, I kept the runs down,"
Australia were all out for 112 in season with 89 wickets. He is the Ashwin said after the match.
their second innings shortly after fastest ever to reach 25 five "We just spoke in the dressing
tea on the penultimate day. India wicket hauls, achieving the feat room to bowl some short spells
have now levelled the fourTest in 88 innings ahead of Sri and keep changing over. That is
series at 11. Lankan g reat Mutthiah why we were rotat ing so we
The Indians bowled superbly Muralithaaran (100) and leg could attack through such short
on a pitch which has developed endary New Zealand fast bowler balls."
quite a few cracks, making it dif Richard Hadlee (111). Indian opener Lokesh Rahul
ficult for batting. The Chennai spinner is also the was declared Man of the Match.
Ashwin did the most damage fastest Indian bowler to take 200
with figures of 6/41. Fast bowler Test wickets in India, reaching
Umesh Yadav displayed excellent the landmark in 30 Test matches. Virat Kohli and Ravichandran
speed and swing to return 2/30 He has gone past Bishen Singh Ashwin celebrate in Bengaluru.
while fellow pacer Ishant Sharma Bedi to be fifth on the list of (Photo: IANS)
and leftarm spinner Ravindra highest wicket takers for India

Shuttlers Saina,
Sindhu, Prannoy
OzIndia rivalry: More business If India want to
be better than
advance in All
England
& politics than cricket Australia, let
Birmingham (England): Saina By Shivaji Sengupta
them be so on
Nehwal, P.V. Sindhu and H.S. the field, and
Prannoy advanced to the second et's go back for a moment to
not in the bank.
round of the All England Open
Badminton Championships
which began at the Barclaycard
L that wonderfully unrealistic
but romantic film, Chak De,
India! Everything that happened in decided that there has to be more
Arena here. it, did not happen in real life: except equitable distribution of monies
Meanwhile, Kidambi Srikanth, one. What Chak De exhumed was between the member countries.
Ajay Jayaram and the men's unbounded selfbelief and determi BCCI will still get more than anyone
doubles pair of Manu Attri and nation; first in the coach, and else, but less than they are getting
B. Sumeeth Reddy put up below
thence to the players. now. All the countries are on the
par performances to exit the
For India to win after the thrash same page regarding this matter.
tournament.
ing they received in the first Test by India, of course, disagrees. Not only
However, India's two biggest
333 runs was a testimony to that do they disagree, they are threaten
hopes, Saina and Sindhu won India should be more gracious, more accommodating of other
type of selfbelief and determina ing not to play ball if they do not
easily in their first round match
tion. What one heard throughout countries trying to institutionalize cricket. get the amount they are demanding.
es. Sixth seed Sindhu eased past
the preparation period, even as T hen came 1971, and Sunil himse lf became the Chief England and Australia oppose them.
Danish Mette Poulsen with a 21
India was systematically taking Manohar Gavaskar. I see him as the Administrator. Test players and One Which brings us back to the rival
10, 2111 victory in 29 minutes.
apart cricket teams from New primary ef ficient cause of India's Day International players started ry between Australia and India. It is
In the second round, the 2016
Zealand, England and Bangladesh, turnaround in cricket. Gavaskar getting paid much, much more lit not simply about cricket. It's about
Olympic silver medallist will
the talk was about India versus handed the torch over to Kapil Dev. erally crores of rupees. The Board money. As a man of Indian origin,
meet Indonesian Dinar Dyah
Australia. All that preceded was Immediately after Gavaskar's retire of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) one who has always taken pride for
Ayustine, who moved past
merely "happy prologue to the ment, Sachin Tendulkar came to became "filthy rich" with television being Indian, and as a cricket
Danish qualifier Natalia Koch
swelling act of the imperial theme." play, and with him players like Anil and other advertisement rights. All enthusiast, I feel deeply disturbed
Rohde 2119, 2220.
Yes, India versus Australia is a Kumble and Srinath; others such as this would have been wonderful by BCCI's shenanigans. They are
Eighth seed Saina battled past
majestic rivalry. According to Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, VVS had the organization also hadn't emulating colonizers and forgotten
World No.11 and defending
Sydney Morning Herald, this rivalry Laxman, and the inimitable been led by businessmen, politi what it is to be colonized. With
champion Nozomi Okuhara of
ranks higher than the Ashes Virendra Sehwag followed. By cians, and tycoons. BCCI became money, they crudely think they can
Japan 2115, 2114 in 38 min
(England versus Australia). Each 2001, thirty years after Gavaskar unilateral, arrogant and began to tame every cricketing country in
utes. Saina will face German
team has been losing on the oppo broke into the scene with 774 runs dominate their terms all over world the world. Well, it always doesn't
qualifier Fabienne Deprez in the
nent's field since 2004, when Virat in just four Tests in his very first cricket by making money its prime work out that way. The Indians
next round. In the men's singles
Kohli, the present Indian captain, test series, Indian cricket was final mover. have until April to respond to the
category, only Prannoy managed
was 14 years old. ly in its renaissance. It never looked The BCCI reasoning was simple: ICC. Australia's opposition to India
to progress to the second round.
But rivalry comes with a price. To back. Cricket became immensely since they provide most of the is justified. India should be more
Prannoy defeated China's Qiao
understand that we have to recall popular. money for world cricket, they ought gracious, more accommodating of
Bin 1721, 2220, 2119 in an
what Indian Test cricket was like With popularity comes money. A to get most of the receipts and roy other countries trying to institu
excruciating men's sing les
when I was 14. Then, India lost to Bengal businessman, Jagmohan alties. India, though, is still not the tionalize cricket. It's a good sign
match that lasted an hour and
nearly everybody; and not just in Dalmiya, also a cricket enthusiast, undisputed champion on the play that the Supreme Court is now
22 minutes. Next, Prannoy will
cricket; in every sport, except hock was watching all this. He quickly ing field, though they are close to obliging BCCI to fall in line. If they
face Chinese seventh seed Tian
ey (in which they had also started got inside the coterie of cricket the top. However, their posturing in want to be better than Australia, let
Houwei, who registered a 2119,
losing). To be an Indian sports administrators, and, due to his deft the world arena is like that of a Big them be so on the field, and not in
2118 win over Tommy Sugiarto
of Indonesia. enthusiast in those days was financial planning, expert handling Brother. Recently, the rest of the the bank.
fraught with disappointment. of the media as clients of cricket, ICC (International Cricket Council) Let's return cricket to cricketers!
TheSouthAsianTimes.info US AFFAIRS March 11-17, 2017 27

Playing the winning Trump card


By endorsing Trump a year ago, John LaValle is better
positioned today to win Republican nomination for
Suffolk County Executive in 2019. He may even get an
ambassadorship to one of the 26 Caribbean nations.
By Robert Golomb

W
hen on April 6, 2016
John LaValle, 48, the
then and current
Suf folk County Republican
Chairperson announced at a Long
Island Trump political rally that
he was endorsing the controver
sial billionaire for the GOP
Presidential nomination, many
leaders from both the Democrat
and Republican parties were said
to be in a state of shock. While it
is rare to have them agree on any
polit ical matter, concerning
LaValles endorsement of Trump, John LaValle became Trump surrogate during the presidential campaign.
who came to Long Island that day class throughout this eastern Americas own energy resources, incredibly taken by what I saw. Trumps direction, LaValle stated,
to thank LaValle (as well as sever Long Island County of one and a his promise to remove literally His kindness, his friendliness, his As the reports began to come
al other Republican leaders) for half million citizens was that this thousands of useless and burden warmth, and his clearly genuine over the television of Trump win
his support, they were in full selfinflicted wound would all some regulations off the backs of concern for the feeling of others ning state after state, including
accord. but end LaValles chances of win businessmen and women, his be they his chauf feurs, body the swing states of Florida, Iowa
It is strange to see Democrats ning the Republican nomination plan to secure our borders, and guards, children of people and Ohio, the incredible realiza
and Republicans agree on any for County Executive in 2019. his commitment to re build involved in the campaign and tion that he was going to be elect
thing. I guess it takes a maverick That nomination, which would Americas infrastructure, he stat campaign staff members left a ed president beg an to set in
like me to get that kind of bipar have pitted him against twoterm ed. very strong impression upon me. throughout the large crowd of his
tisan agreement, LaValle, whom incumbent Demo crat Steve On these and other domestic I was just hoping for the opportu increasingly euphoric supporters.
I interviewed last week in his Bellone in the general election, and foreign policy issues, LaValle nity to become a part of the It was a magical night for them
of fice in the Suf folk County was w ide ly considered to be noted that he found that the over campaign and help him become all. And it was great night for the
Republican Headquarters, stated, LaValles for the asking, prior to whe lming majority of president. future of America.
wearing a broad smile on his the Trump endorsement. Republicans, many independents Trump was to give him that Trumps victory that nig ht
face. LaValle, now no longer smiling, and even more than a few opportunity. In late April, he con might also well prove to be great
Actually, it was little secret told me that while he was well Democrats agreed with Trump, tacted LaValle, asking him if he for the political future of LaValle.
inside the political doors of both aware of this widespread biparti leading him to believe that his would be interested in working With his contentious decision to
part ies in Suf folk that many san belief that he had committed support of his candidacy was for the campaign under the title, endorse Trump fully vindicated,
Republican and Democrat leaders a major polit ical blunder in anything but Quixotic. Because Trump Surrogate. For LaValle, it LaValle has reemerged as the
were offering the same supposed endorsing Trump, he possessed he was right on the issues, and was an easy decision to make. I overwhelming favorite to win,
near certainties on three inter no second thoughts at the time because as a totally independent answered yes in an instant, he should he seek it, the Republican
connected predictions. The first about his decision. The stakes nonpolitician and extraordinarily recalled. In this new role, LaValle nomination for County Executive
was that Trump, who was run for America were too high for me successful businessman, he was appeared on more than 150 in 2019. In addition, it has been
ning virtually without any sup to worry about my own political the right person to articulate and cable and regular network news speculated in several New York
port from the national party future. I was looking for the can champion those posit ions, I shows airing from the New York news outlets that Trump, with
establishment, had little chance didate who had the g reatest became convinced even during area. On each, he told me, his goal whom LaValle is rumored to still
of w inning the Republican potential to become a great presi the most challenging days of the was to serve as a representative be in contact, is considering him
Presidential nomination. The sec dent. Based on the domestic and campaign that Donald Trump of Trump, with whom he soon for an ambassadorship to one of
ond was that even if by an foreign policy positions he pro would be the next President of found himse lf speaking on a the 26 Caribbean nations.
extreme long shot Trump won posed and the strong, sincere and the United States, he said. weekly basis. There can only be While LaValle was reluctant to
the GOP nomination, he had even unapologetic way he proposed LaValle added that in addition one Donald Trump, he stated. discuss his political future, he did
less of a chance of defeating the them, that candidate for me, I to being impressed by the poli But even he can only be in only acknowledge that his involve
then certain Democrat nominee concluded, could only be one per cies and positions of Trump, he one place at one time. So when ment in the Trump presidential
Hillary Clinton, who was beating son: Donald Trump, he told me. was also impressed by what he called to, it was my honor and campaign has improved his polit
him handily in almost every gen The foreign policy positions, perceived to be the future presi privilege to serve as his surro ical standing in the county. When
eral election poll. LaValle cited included dents positive personal qualities. gate. I asked him to be more specific,
Their third area of agreement Trumps,commitment to rebuild I originally endorsed Mr. Trump, LaValle performed that role he stated, smiling broadly once
was that by endorsing Trump, our military, and, directly related whom prior to the event in Long from the day he accepted again, Since the election I have
LaValle a father of 3 young boys to that, provide significantly Island I had met only once about Trumps of fer, up through the sensed that family members,
and an attorney, who prior to his improved medical care and other 3 years ago, because I believed August Republican Convention, friends and political associates
se lect ion as Suf folk County needed services for our military the solutions he proposed to, in where he also served as a New have been more inclined to listen
Republican Chair in 2009, had veterans, totally de feat and his own words, make America York State Trump delegate, up to my advice be it concerning
served as the Supervisor of the destroy Islamic terrorism and great again would do just that, until the night of the election political or personal matters.
town of Brookhaven from 2,000 rebuild our historic relationship he said. itself, November 8th. As well they should.
2005, and before that as a City with Israel, our ally mistreated Yet, he continued, I as I got to Describing that night, when,
Councilman from the same town for the past eight years. know him on a personal level the standing alongside thousands of Robert Golomb is a nationally
from 19962000 had just suf LaValle said he was equally day of and the several days cheering Trump supporters in the and internationally published
fered a fatal selfinflicted political impressed by Trumps domestic following the endorsement, I got main ballroom of Manhattans columnist. Email him at
wound. policies. I was extremely excited an inside look at the private side Hilton Hotel, he watched the tide MrBob347@aol.com and follow
The consensus of the political by Mr. Trumps pledge to unleash of Mr. Trump. And I became of the election results swaying in him on twitter@robertgolomb
28 March 11-17, 2017 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Funny Side by Nury Vittachi

You hurt my feelings, now


make me a millionaire
E
motional distress
is when you make
a sarcastic com
ment on Facebook and
every sing le friend
thinks that's what you
really think, and when
you later point out that
you don't actually advo
cate eating the unem
ployed or whatever,
BEST they think you are
being sarcastic.
RATE So then you're in a
bad mood and switch to
FOR your email and find
this: "Dear Mr

INDIA Columnist, how much are my emotions


worth in major currencies at today's rates in
something like: "The Right of The American
People to File and Win Ridiculous Lawsuits

AND various countries around the world?"


The message from reader Agnes P.K. Ting
Shall Never be Infringed."
But I checked with a lawyer who told me

PAKISTAN baf fled me until I clicked her link to a


February news report: Police in the US just
that people make emotional distress claims
all over the world.
paid $885,000 to a petowner "for emotion A teacher in the UK demanded compensa
al distress" after they shot his pet dog. A sec tion for being stressed out by kids and a
New York Head Quarter ond link led to a January report of a student court g ave him 101,000 pounds
who was asked to urinate in a bucket in a ($125,000), before a higher court snatched
422S Broadway
storeroom and received $1.25 million, also it back arguing that "a person stressed out
HICKSVILLE "for emotional distress". by kids" was pretty much the definition of
NY 11801 "Why do we work to earn money instead teacher.
of just waiting until someone hurts our feel A guy in India watched a really bad
5168271010 ings and then claim compensation for emo Bollywood movie called "Rockstar" in 2014
tional distress," Agnes asked. and demanded Rs. 50,000, which is about
Good question. I thought the answer might $750, "on account of mental harassment
be that these things only happen in the and agony suffered". Given that Bollywood
United States, a country which undoubtedly movies sometimes run threeandahalf
has a constitutional amendment saying hours, he may have underpriced the dam
age.
In China, a man tried to sue actress Zhao

Laughter is the Best Medicine Wei because her intense stare at the camera
during a particular TV show caused him
"spiritual damage". I can see how the attrac
tive Ms Zhao could cause any male viewer to
have significant nonspiritual thoughts. The
courts eventually declined to hear the case,
although if they had any brains they would
have taken a week off to inspect Ms Zhao's
videos as part of their "due diligence"
process.
Still, I can see why courts in Asia refuse to
pay compensation to viewers aggrieved by
shockingly bad television. TV companies
would basically be paying cash to every
viewer every day for every show. And how
ever much they paid, it wouldn't be enough.
Yet despite the rash of emotional distress
lawsuits, let's remember that many claims
fail. A colleague forwarded me a report
about a woman who found her image was
used without permission in a Chipotle
restaurant promotion and asked for $2 bil
lion. The courts recently ruled against her,
but I think it was worth trying, just in case
the judge had had a nice lunch and gave her
a token $100 million to say sorry for the
by Mahendra Shah thumbs down.
Meanwhile, if any judges are reading this,
Mahendra Shah is an architect by education, entrepreneur by profession, artist and humorist, cartoonist and writer by hobby. He has been how much can I get for the emotional dis
recording the plight of the immigrant Indians for the past many years in his cartoons. Hailing from Gujarat, tress of having a sarcastic comment misun
he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. derstood? Millions, right?
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ASTROLOGY March 11-17, 2017 29

Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874


By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, 2648 9899
psharma@premastrologer.com; www.premastrologer.com

MARCH 1117, 2017 ANNUAL PREDICTIONS: FOR THOSE BORN IN THIS WEEK
ARIES: Pending proposals will get imple LIBRA: Before refusing a promotion 11th March, 2017 would be a period of success and happi
mented with the help of seniors. An offer, look the things from longterm Influenced by number 2 and the Moon. ness, as you would make major gains. You
impulsive behaviour brings disappoint perspective. Friends and family mem You are active, smart, energetic, responsi would easily outsmart your competitors
ment at family front. Better to control it to save bers would encourage to work harder. Put your ble, systematic and a friendly person. You because of you better skills and aptitude.
all. Monetary gains are likely to remain below extra money at a safer place promising to return always aim high and you are not satisfied Investments during this period would also
expectations. Dont forget to take some time for you on time. A special message from until you achieve your goals. You are help yield handsome gains. New proposals for
love partner. Unwanted thoughts could occupy beloved/lover lifts spirits. Cataract patients must ful and loyal to your friends but you need joint venture would be alluring, but a part
mind thus keeping you distressed. Vacations avoid overexposure to sunlight. Planning for to check your tendency to behave stubborn nership is definitely not on your cards this
are at a premium, if you consider them. You traveling requires advice of persons whom you and fickleminded at times. This year you year. You would make new friends through
might face problem to sell your property as travel with. Selling a plot might be profitable as are asked to handle additional responsibili old ones. T he months of September,
marketing might not be correct. If possible property rates tend to rise sooner. Ef forts to ties at work. This would put you in good January and April would be highly signifi
dont waste your valuable time on unproduc defend your identity would pave the way for books of your employer and go a long way cant.
tive work. your future success. in bringing you rewards. You would work
TAURUS: A missed opportunity would SCORPIO: Make sure you dont neglect on new ideas, which would he lp you 15th March, 2017
hard to regain especially at professional subordinates by giving an ear to them to increase your income. Spouse expected to Influenced by number 6 and the planet
front. Arguments with children could enable yourself to find valuable sugges bring in some thrilling news later this year. Venus. You are energetic, practical, system
put some mental pressure. However, dont tions. Enjoying a picnic with family will not only Distant journeys, maybe overseas for some atic, methodical and a generous person.
strain yourself beyond a point because certain bring joy but also help in clearing misunder would be highly pleasurable and rewarding. You are fond of charity and social work and
issues are best when left untouched. New con standings. Successful execution of brilliant ideas The months of September, December and you frequently associate with likeminded
tracts might appear lucrative but might fail to would help in earning financial profits. You find April seem to be highly beneficial. people to support the noble cause, but you
bring desired gains. Romantic relationship suf pleasure and enjoy ecstasies of love in the arms need to control your tendencies to behave
fers as you neglect the feelings of partner. Even of partner. A continuous positive thinking gets 12th March, 2017 impatient, whimsical and jealous at times.
meditation & yoga might fail to enhance men rewarded as you succeed in whatever you do Governed by number 3 and the planet This year businessmen are likely to diversi
tal toughness. Your travel plans could not during this week. A systematic approach to plan Jupiter. You are a practical, energetic, reli fy into new and more profitable avenues.
workout as you will be visiting a beastly place. your journey will benefit you in future. Your per gious, brilliant, sober and an optimistic per Few unexpected trips would be taken this
Mortgaging your plot is not right for you, crisis sonal loan plans for property could be in son. You are always looking for a change year. You could also be traveling to an
may arise. Hidden enemies might sabotage progress. You will be successful in acquiring new and you adapt to new technologies quickly exotic destination of your choice. Health
your legal matters. skills to discover more about yourself. than others. You are efficient and sincere, however would need more attention than
GEMINI: A very good week to apply for SAGITTARIUS: Good week for imple but you need to check your tendency to before. Some exhilarating news from your
overseas job. Charming nature and menting new plans and ventures. You behave jealous and stubborn at times. This children later in the year would boost up
pleasant personality would make you are likely to hear a good news from year sharing personal and secretive infor your spirits. Investment would be prof
the attraction of family function. A very suc close relatives. Control your expenses and avoid mation would not be in your best interest. itable, but do not put all your money at one
cessful week as far as monetary position is con being too lavish in your spending. Behave proper The atmosphere at office would be compet place. The month of August, October, March
cerned. Love journey is likely to be short but ly while going out with love companion. Make itive and would require you to handle and May will be eventful and result orient
sweet. Health would remain fine despite a busy sure you avoid everything that af fects your important jobs with more responsibility. ed.
schedule but dont take it for granted. Some health. It is important to delve into your desires You can look forward to new friendships
arrangements before you go on an overseas before you plan to travel. Want to buy a property and even a romantic alliance through work 16th March, 2017
trip will save your time, ef fort and give you at seaside, go through the safety measures. It will related projects. You need to control your Governed by number 7 and the planet
peace of mind. Your dream for new house be in your interest not to give importance to use mood and erratic behaviour; otherwise you Neptune. You are af fectionate, charming,
might be full filed now. Friendship tool would less things. are like ly to disappoint many people sober, courageous, original and an honest
benefit friend by removing the flaws in behav CAPRICORN: Traveling brings new over around you. Distant journeys, maybe over person. You are highly courageous and
iour. seas business opportunities. You are seas for some would fetch favorable fond of accepting challenges, but you need
CANCER: Time to equip yourself with likely to plan a short trip with family. returns. The months of November, January to control your tendency to behave impa
strong communication skills to You are likely to earn monetary gains through and June will prove to be significant. tient, timid and short temper at times. This
enhance career prospects. Unexpected various sources. Proposing might benefit, as is going to be an extraordinary year for
visit by old friend could give you a pleasant chances of succeeding in love are high. You need 13th March, 2017 you, which would promise you financial
surprise. Increase in income from past invest to keep patience as your continuous effort cou Ruled by number 4 and the planet growth and prosperity. This is also going to
ment is foreseen. Search for a true romantic pled with common sense & understanding brings Uranus. You are generous, peace loving, be a rewarding period for workingwomen.
friend might end this week. Mental alertness success. Pack your bags and be ready for an dashing, systematic, disciplined, and cre Your income would rise, but you would also
would enable to solve a tricky problem. If amazing holiday. Lifestyle home is what you are ative in nature. You are very hardworking spend more than necessary on luxuries and
youre planning a vacation, be sure to consider looking for? Things begin to move in your favour and possess an ability to impress others other comforts. Romance and new alliances
your work does not effect. Deals on commer as you find people supporting you. with your intelligence, but you need to con look likely for the unattached. Your seniors
cial property can tend to be at full boom. Your AQUARIUS: Time to be a good commu trol your tendency to be extravagant, reck and coworkers are likely to give you anx
creativity would immensely help in doing well nicator & natural negotiator to enable less and moody at times. This year you ious moments at times. Health of your
in life. yourself to tackle the pressure of a would find yourself changing plans more spouse would cause concern and anxiety.
LEO: Promotions and monetary benefits highly responsible position. Evening enjoyed than usual and decision on certain fronts The months of October, December, March
for dedicated professionals. Family with family and close relatives brings immense would not be easy. Some changes in friend and August will be highly significant.
members appreciate the changes made pleasure. Property dealings would materialize ship also seem to take place later this year.
in & around the house. Indications of earning helping in bringing fabulous gains. If possible, Frequent and fruitful journeys would be 17th March, 2017
financial profits through commissions, divi spend quality time with love partner to know & undertaken. A property transaction or Ruled by number 8 and the planet Saturn.
dends or royalties. You enjoy a lovely time as understand each other better. Encourage mind to acquiring a new vehicle during this period You are creative, active, confidant, intelli
Cupid is on your side this week. Creative hob be receptive to positive emotions like love, hope, seems likely. Visit to a religious place or gent and an artistic person. Your strong
bies are likely to keep you relaxed. Weekend faith, sympathy and optimism to enjoy a sound blessings from a spiritual person would be determination always keeps you ahead of
getaway to enjoy pubs and clubs is on your health. When preparing to travel with a family be high on your agenda. Your outgoing nature others and makes you popular in your sur
way. Getting your dream home will be the humble and patient. If you are shifting to another will work to your advantage as you gain rounding, but you need to restrain your ten
greatest pleasure for you. You will be success rental house then go through the contract papers favours and benefits from important peo dencies towards being erratic, stubborn
ful in cutting yourself away from old ideas & carefully. You will have to save yourself from the ple. The months of October, February and and jealous at times. This year your self
beliefs that have outlived their utility/purpose. conspiracy hatched by enemies. July will bring prosperity. confidence would be high and you would
VIRGO: Subordinates/coworkers would PISCES: You are likely to encounter some make financial deals, which would bring
be very helpful. An old friend makes a challenging situations at workplace. Some 14th March, 2017 your extra cash. New alliances and partner
pleasant visit later in the week. changes that you might make to your Ruled by number 5 and the planet ships for some. Speculation would prove to
Important people will be ready to finance any looks could annoy family members. Better to do Mercury. You are highly intelligent, diplo be rewarding and longterm investment is
thing that has a special class to it. Love com things that would please them. Financial problems matic, highly business oriented, accommo recommended. Long pending legal disputes
panion will be eager to meet you during this could affect constructive thinking. Disclosure of dating, dashing and kindhearted individual. would be sorted out bringing relief to your
week. With a positive outlook & confidence, secret affair might create some problems at love You are a very social person and your fami mind. Blessing from a saintly person would
you succeed in impressing people around you. front. You are likely to suffer from stress & ten ly and friends have a priority in your life, provide solace and mental comfort. Stay
A short trip with lavishing experiences is the sions in this week. Reduce your property loans but you need to curb your tendencies to away from strangers and avoid spending on
right thing for you. Purchasing home loan is otherwise you will be in great trouble. You unnec behave reckless, vindictive and moody at others. Health needs extra care. T he
not the right decision for you. You might face essarily waste time by trying to change the will of times. This year you should try to focus months of September, January and May
opposition and rivalry in personal situations. a friend without changing mind. your energy into professional endeavors. It would prove to be result oriented.
30 March 11-17, 2017 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Happiness is a state of mind


cow into the hut to live with you and says, It is all your fault! that life is harder without
for a week and then come back to T he wise man thought for a
see me. moment and said, My dear,
The woman was puzzled. She go home
thought that since he was a wise
man, there must be
some magic in bringing
the cow into the house,
so she did what he said.
The next week was hor
rible. It was so crowded in
By Sant Rajinder Singh the house that every time
Ji Maharaj the cow turned around, all
the six family members had

L
ife is filled with many chal to change their seats. When
lenges and sometimes, under they tried to sleep, the smell
pressure, people crack. They was intolerable, and it would
feel they can no longer stand all moo throughout the night,
the problems facing them. waking them all up.
life is harder
at
find th pend time
Sometimes people feel they have After the week passed, the
it a n d
e lose l we s
the worst job in the world. Others woman returned to the wise
n ti
feel they have the worst health man and began shouting at him,
rrib le , un til w
lth i s b a d u
h an we are.
o ea t
job is h e think our h ndition r side.
problems; they feel no one could be What have you done? I came to
k ou r rs e co e
We thin an income. W people in wo er on the oth
plagued with as many physical you to make things better and
problems as they have. At some now I am more miserable than
t d n be
time in our lives, we feel that no before. Your advice did not work. withou spital and fin e grass is gree so much easier if we
one could have things as bad as we He thought for a moment and
in a ho ways feel th accept that God knows what is best
have. asked, Do you have any chickens?
W e al an income. for us. If we examined the times in
There is a folk tale about a wise Yes, she said. We think our health is bad until our lives that we interfered with
man who lived in a forest. People He told her, Take them into the and try one we spend time in a hospital and Gods will, we may have discovered
would travel far and wide to seek hut with you for a week. She did more thing. Take the cow and find people in worse condition than that we messed things up terribly
him out for answers to their prob not understand how this would the chickens out of your hut. Then, we are. We think our family mem on our own and prayed to God to
lems. One day, a woman came to help, but since he was a wise man, come back to me in a week. bers are bad, until we find our return things to the way they were.
him for advice. and everybody in her village found The woman was fed up with his selves alone and realize how diffi Next time we think things are
He said, My dear, what can I do his advice helpful, she thought she advice but thought she would give cult life is without them. We always going badly and that God is not
for you? would give this a try. it one last chance. She returned feel the grass is greener on the properly listening to us, we should
She said, Things are terrible at When she returned home, she home and pulled the cow out of the other side. sit back, take a deep breath, and
home. I live in a small hut with my collected all the chickens from the house. She took the chickens out The woman learned that what relax. We should give God a chance
husband and two children. The hut backyard and moved them into the and returned them to the backyard. she thought was bad was actually to let things happen and observe
is barely large enough for the four house. For the next week, the chick A week later, the woman not so bad when she saw how patiently. We will find when all is
of us. I wanted a bigger house but ens were flying around the hut, returned to the wise man. much worse things could be. It is said and done that God worked
my husband is not doing well at landing on everything and making How are things now? he asked. human nature to think that every things out for the best in the end. If
work and cannot afford anything a mess of the place. Thank you so much! You are body else has it so good, and it is we reflect, we would find that if
larger. As times are bad, my hus After a week, she returned and truly wise. Since I removed the cow only we who are suffering. God had listened to our complaints
bands father lost his job, so his cried, in tears, You must be crazy. and chickens from the hut, I feel so We think we know what is best and let us do things our own way,
parents had to move in with us. We Your advice is terrible. It is impossi much happier. Things have become for us. How many times have we things may not have been in our
were already crowded before, but ble to live in the hut now. The cow so peaceful. tried to intervene with our two best interest at all.
now with six of us living together turns around and knocks into us. T he wise man smiled. T he cents to find that when we tried to Happiness is a state of mind. If
in that small space, it is unbearable. The chickens fly all around the hut. woman returned home and lived change our situation, we made we think that God is not doing
I cannot take it anymore. I feel like My inlaws are always choking happily with her husband, her chil things worse? T hen, we regret what is best for us, we will always
screaming! from the smell and complaining dren, and her inlaws. what we have done and wish we be unhappy. If we would realize
T he wise man thought for a about how bad it is living with us. This story illustrates that we are could make things go back to the that we are living according to
moment and asked, Do you have a The children find chicken feathers often unhappy with our situation way they were. what God wishes for us, and that
cow? falling into their food. My husband until we find that things could On the spiritual path, one of the God is giving us what is best for us,
The woman said, Yes, we do. is constantly fighting with me over always be worse. We think our job lessons we need to learn is accept we would always be happy and
He said, I advise you to bring the the living conditions in our home is horrible, until we lose it and find ing the will of the Lord. Life would content.

WHERE IS GOD?
ne of the questions I find to what saints and mystics have after this physical life. wants to distract us with thoughts, meditation each day will help us

O people ask most frequently


is: where is God? They also
want to know about their soul or
been saying for centuries: God is
within us.
They have found God by going
Some saints have called the
human body a temple in which the
Creator resides. Since soul or spirit
so in Sawan Kirpal Ruhani Mission
we mentally repeat spiritually
charged words. In an introductory
find out for ourselvesusing the
laboratory of the human body
where God is. While scientists
spirit. Science has advanced to the within through meditation. is a part of God, we each carry God method called Jyoti Meditation, we keep looking for God in the deep
point where we have powerful tel What is meditation? Some peo within us. It is a matter of medita can repeat any name of God with est reaches of outer space or with
escopes and spaceships to explore ple think of it as merely a way to tion to look within and find God. which we feel comfortable to keep in the minutest particles of the
outer space, and particle accelera relax the body and mind. What are the instructions for the mind from distracting our atom, we can solve the greatest
tors to look at the smallest parti For the saints and mystics, medi how to meditate? Meditation is attention. The body and mind will mystery ourselves by sitting in
cles within each atom, yet we have tation has been the way to find simple. We merely find a quiet, feel relaxed and peaceful, and our meditation.
not uncovered where God is in this God within. Through meditation, comfortable place to sit in which soul or spirit will have a spiritual
material universe. The fact that we also find answers to questions our mind and body can be stilled. experience leading to us finding By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji
the Creator has yet to be found in about what happens to us after We close our eyes and look within God within. Maharaj
the outer physical universe points death and whether there is life to see what appears. The mind Doing the spiritual practice of (For more visit www.sos.org)
TheSouthAsianTimes.info March 11-17, 2017

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