Foreign investors seem to be warming up to India’s power sector again, after a long gap. Hyderabad based infrastructure firm Gayatri Projects on Tuesday signed an agreement with Singapore’s Sembcorp to set up a 1,320 mw thermal power plant in Krishnapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The cost of the supercritical power project will be Rs 6,869 crore – which will include an equity investment of Rs 1,718 crore by the two partners. This is the first investment by a foreign firm in India’s power sector in over four years.
Gayatri managing director T V Sandeep Reddy and Sembcorp executive vice-president Tan Cheng Guan signed the JV agreement in the presence of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah, Union Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and Rajya Sabha Member T Subbarami Reddy today. “The first phase of the project will be completed in 40 months,” Mr. Reddy said. The next phase of the project involves setting up another 1,320 mw power capaicty, he added. The entire 2,640 mw capacity would be ready in five years time. The project will help meet part of the growing power needs of the state, Mr. Rosaiah said at the event.
"Sembcorp is the first foreign company to invest in the power sector in India in the last four-and-a-half years," Mr. Shinde said, speaking at the occasion. Although 100 per cent FDI is permitted in the power sector, response of foreign investors has been tepid so far, Mr. Shinde said. “But now we have taken many corrective steps to help the power sector grow, which is restoring confidence among foreign investors," he added.
Gayatri Projects will own a 51 per cent stake in the project, while Sembcorp will hold the remainder. The Singapore based firm would be investing Rs 1,100 crore in the project, Gayatri said in a statement. Sembcorp Utilities is a Singapore based firm with interests in power generation and water supply. Temasak Holdings, the investment arm of Singapore Government, owns a 49.7 per cent stake in the firm.
Showing posts with label Hyderabad. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hyderabad. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Monday, May 17, 2010
State, rain leave city battered
A brief but torrid spell of rain and 70 kmph gales left Hyderabad in a shambles on Sunday, with uprooted trees and hoardings leaving the city without power for eight hours and more and a traffic jammed that enveloped most main roads.
The so-called “emergency teams” of the power and civic utilities responded only after three hours.
The rain lasted barely for an hour but gave a preview of what the city can expect in the monsoon next month with the civic authorities in a state of total unpreparedness.
The negligence of civic authorities meant that lakhs of people fretted and fumed and cursed in dark, waiting to perform the auspicious Lakshmi puja on Akshaya Tritiya.
Those who were out on the roads shopping for the festival or attending the thousands of weddings on the auspicious day were stuck in never-ending traffic jams.
Traffic was blocked trees felled by the gales but there was no sign of workers of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation and the Water Supply and Sewerage Board.
Motorists and local residents worked with bare hands to remove tree branches to clear the roads and policemen lent a helping hand. Vehicular traffic was diverted on several routes.
Though the traffic police made frantic calls to the GHMC officials to dispatch emergency teams, it was only after 6.30 pm that the personnel, equipped with equipment to cut trees, started clearing operations.
The so-called “emergency teams” of the power and civic utilities responded only after three hours.
The rain lasted barely for an hour but gave a preview of what the city can expect in the monsoon next month with the civic authorities in a state of total unpreparedness.
The negligence of civic authorities meant that lakhs of people fretted and fumed and cursed in dark, waiting to perform the auspicious Lakshmi puja on Akshaya Tritiya.
Those who were out on the roads shopping for the festival or attending the thousands of weddings on the auspicious day were stuck in never-ending traffic jams.
Traffic was blocked trees felled by the gales but there was no sign of workers of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation and the Water Supply and Sewerage Board.
Motorists and local residents worked with bare hands to remove tree branches to clear the roads and policemen lent a helping hand. Vehicular traffic was diverted on several routes.
Though the traffic police made frantic calls to the GHMC officials to dispatch emergency teams, it was only after 6.30 pm that the personnel, equipped with equipment to cut trees, started clearing operations.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
SIT to probe into Hyderabad shooting case
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of city police on Saturday took over the probe into the killing of a police constable by three unidentified assailants even as Viqaruddin, said to be a member of the banned Simi, was emerging as the key suspect. The case was transferred from Hussaini Alam police station. The incident took place last evening at Shah-Ali Banda area in the old city of Hyderabad, police said. "The case was on Saturday handed over to SIT for a thorough investigation into the death of police constable U. Ramesh," a senior police officer told PTI. Police officials, meanwhile, said some eyewitnesses have identified one of the assailants as Viqaruddin, said
to be a member of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (Simi), going by his photo. Viqaruddin, allegedly having links with terror outfits like Huji is wanted in connection two attacks on policemen on December 3, 2008 and May 18, 2009. The body of Ramesh was shifted from Osmania General Hospital (OGS) here to his native Madanapalli in
Chittoor district on Friday night after an autopsy.
Three bullets were fired at Ramesh and one bullet was recovered from his chest during autopsy. It was for the third time in the last 17 months that suspected terrorist elements attacked policemen on duty in Hyderabad city. Two persons were killed and as many injured in these incidents.
Alleged ISI operative Viqaruddin opened fire on the sleuths of counter-intelligence cell at IS Sadan in December 2008 injuring a head constable, according to police. He was also allegedly involved in the shootout at Falaknuma in which a home guard died and a police constable was injured on May 18 last year, the second anniversary of Mecca Masjid blast.
Viqaruddin, against whom the Special Investigation Team of the city police has already registered a case, is
a resident of Old Malakpet area here and had joined Darsgah-e-Jihad-o-Shahadat (DJS), a suspected front
of Simi. Police say he is a strong follower of jihadi ideology and has now emerged as a major challenge for
them. The police commissioner, Mr A.K. Khan, had earlier this month claimed that they had obtained clear leads on
Viqaruddin and hoped to nab him soon. The latest incident comes four days ahead of the third anniversary
of Mecca Masjid blast in which five persons were killed.
to be a member of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (Simi), going by his photo. Viqaruddin, allegedly having links with terror outfits like Huji is wanted in connection two attacks on policemen on December 3, 2008 and May 18, 2009. The body of Ramesh was shifted from Osmania General Hospital (OGS) here to his native Madanapalli in
Chittoor district on Friday night after an autopsy.
Three bullets were fired at Ramesh and one bullet was recovered from his chest during autopsy. It was for the third time in the last 17 months that suspected terrorist elements attacked policemen on duty in Hyderabad city. Two persons were killed and as many injured in these incidents.
Alleged ISI operative Viqaruddin opened fire on the sleuths of counter-intelligence cell at IS Sadan in December 2008 injuring a head constable, according to police. He was also allegedly involved in the shootout at Falaknuma in which a home guard died and a police constable was injured on May 18 last year, the second anniversary of Mecca Masjid blast.
Viqaruddin, against whom the Special Investigation Team of the city police has already registered a case, is
a resident of Old Malakpet area here and had joined Darsgah-e-Jihad-o-Shahadat (DJS), a suspected front
of Simi. Police say he is a strong follower of jihadi ideology and has now emerged as a major challenge for
them. The police commissioner, Mr A.K. Khan, had earlier this month claimed that they had obtained clear leads on
Viqaruddin and hoped to nab him soon. The latest incident comes four days ahead of the third anniversary
of Mecca Masjid blast in which five persons were killed.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
A.P. can have 44 Ministers: Rosaiah
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah said here on Monday that he felt the need to expand his Cabinet as there are only 34 Ministers now.
Speaking to newspersons, the Chief Minister pointed out that the State could have up to 44 Ministers as per the recommendations of Sarkaria Commission and that he would expand the Cabinet at an appropriate time.
Mr. Rosaiah refuted the criticism that the Planning Commission had rebuffed the government for increased revenue expenditure vis-a-vis plan expenditure. It had approved the State plan with an outlay of Rs. 36,800 crore, one of the largest in the country, and appreciated the performance of the State government.
The Planning Commission had made a general comment that revenue expenditure should be reduced and plan expenditure increased for better growth. This expert opinion would apply to all States and also the Centre, he observed.
The Chief Minister refuted the charge that the government is earning enormous revenue through excise. Stating that Congress had never promised total prohibition, he said it would strive to wean away people from liquor in a phased manner.
Earlier, at the Praja Patham programme, people residing in the sea shore village of Katarivaripalem revealed they did not have any problem of drinking water or power supply. As the water sources were salinated due to the tsunami in December 2006, Rotary and Assist provided drinking water using reverse osmosis technique. District Collector Kantilal Dande said the people were seeking distribution lines for tap connections.
Express gratitude
Farmers thanked Mr. Rosaiah for sanctioning lift irrigation scheme at a cost of Rs. 5 crore to irrigate 1,400 acres in the village. They sought cement lining of canal to extend water supply to 600 acres more. He also agreed to construct second summer storage tank for Chirala at a cost of Rs. 89 crore with World Bank aid.
Speaking to newspersons, the Chief Minister pointed out that the State could have up to 44 Ministers as per the recommendations of Sarkaria Commission and that he would expand the Cabinet at an appropriate time.
Mr. Rosaiah refuted the criticism that the Planning Commission had rebuffed the government for increased revenue expenditure vis-a-vis plan expenditure. It had approved the State plan with an outlay of Rs. 36,800 crore, one of the largest in the country, and appreciated the performance of the State government.
The Planning Commission had made a general comment that revenue expenditure should be reduced and plan expenditure increased for better growth. This expert opinion would apply to all States and also the Centre, he observed.
The Chief Minister refuted the charge that the government is earning enormous revenue through excise. Stating that Congress had never promised total prohibition, he said it would strive to wean away people from liquor in a phased manner.
Earlier, at the Praja Patham programme, people residing in the sea shore village of Katarivaripalem revealed they did not have any problem of drinking water or power supply. As the water sources were salinated due to the tsunami in December 2006, Rotary and Assist provided drinking water using reverse osmosis technique. District Collector Kantilal Dande said the people were seeking distribution lines for tap connections.
Express gratitude
Farmers thanked Mr. Rosaiah for sanctioning lift irrigation scheme at a cost of Rs. 5 crore to irrigate 1,400 acres in the village. They sought cement lining of canal to extend water supply to 600 acres more. He also agreed to construct second summer storage tank for Chirala at a cost of Rs. 89 crore with World Bank aid.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Major fire in Madhapur pub
Lakhs of rupees worth property was feared destroyed after fire broke out in a pub located on the fourth floor of a commercial complex at Madhapur on Monday evening triggering panic among the locals.
Fortunately, no customers were inside the pub when the fire accident occurred. Thirteen workers of the pub managed to escape unhurt.
On noticing the fire in the kitchen, the staff disconnected the power supply. With much difficulty, they shifted the LPG cylinders to the terrace of the building.
The workers later came out safely by the main staircase while some slid down through the sewerage pipe before jumping onto the adjacent building.
The Madhapur police said the pub had special seating arrangements to watch live cricket matches. Flames erupted from the kitchen around 5.30 p.m. and spread to the entire floor.
Even as fire-fighters struggled to douse the blaze, smoke engulfed the lift on the fourth-floor making it difficult for them to reach inside the pub.
The fire personnel later pressed a snorkel into service and put out the flames after three hours. Furniture, electronic goods and other valuables were gutted in the incident. “It was a difficult task for us to extinguish the flames as combustible material was stored in the pub,” said Ranga Reddy district Assistant Fire Officer K.V. Krishna Kumar.
Fortunately, no customers were inside the pub when the fire accident occurred. Thirteen workers of the pub managed to escape unhurt.
On noticing the fire in the kitchen, the staff disconnected the power supply. With much difficulty, they shifted the LPG cylinders to the terrace of the building.
The workers later came out safely by the main staircase while some slid down through the sewerage pipe before jumping onto the adjacent building.
The Madhapur police said the pub had special seating arrangements to watch live cricket matches. Flames erupted from the kitchen around 5.30 p.m. and spread to the entire floor.
Even as fire-fighters struggled to douse the blaze, smoke engulfed the lift on the fourth-floor making it difficult for them to reach inside the pub.
The fire personnel later pressed a snorkel into service and put out the flames after three hours. Furniture, electronic goods and other valuables were gutted in the incident. “It was a difficult task for us to extinguish the flames as combustible material was stored in the pub,” said Ranga Reddy district Assistant Fire Officer K.V. Krishna Kumar.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Sania weds Shoaib earlier than scheduled
In another dramatic turn, the much-awaited wedding of tennis star Sania Mirza and Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik was performed at a five-star hotel around 1 p.m. as per Muslim customs on Monday, ahead of the earlier announced date of April 15.
The nikah was performed in the presence of a select gathering comprising only the family members of the newly-wed couple.
There was high drama as Sania left her posh Jubilee Hills residence accompanied by parents, Imran Mirza and Naseema Mirza, and sister Anam.
A battery of camerapersons, from both print and electronic media, followed the bride's vehicle till the venue, initially kept a secret for security reasons.
A close relative of the Mirza family described the 10-minute ceremony as a ‘very simple affair.' Sania's family members and Shoaib's close relatives, including his sisters and brothers-in-law, attended the function, he told The Hindu. Keen to end speculation and avoid criticism, the families decided to advance the nikah.
Sources said that the families steered clear of possible legal hurdles before going ahead with the ceremony by seeking necessary counsel.
Shoaib's passport was confiscated by the police after Hyderabadi woman Ayesha Siddiqui filed a complaint against the cricketer, claiming Shoaib had married her earlier.
Police have not released the passport yet though the case against him has been withdrawn.
The controversy over the cricketer's first marriage ended after Shoaib ‘divorced' Ayesha following the intervention of community elders.
The nikah was performed in the presence of a select gathering comprising only the family members of the newly-wed couple.
There was high drama as Sania left her posh Jubilee Hills residence accompanied by parents, Imran Mirza and Naseema Mirza, and sister Anam.
A battery of camerapersons, from both print and electronic media, followed the bride's vehicle till the venue, initially kept a secret for security reasons.
A close relative of the Mirza family described the 10-minute ceremony as a ‘very simple affair.' Sania's family members and Shoaib's close relatives, including his sisters and brothers-in-law, attended the function, he told The Hindu. Keen to end speculation and avoid criticism, the families decided to advance the nikah.
Sources said that the families steered clear of possible legal hurdles before going ahead with the ceremony by seeking necessary counsel.
Shoaib's passport was confiscated by the police after Hyderabadi woman Ayesha Siddiqui filed a complaint against the cricketer, claiming Shoaib had married her earlier.
Police have not released the passport yet though the case against him has been withdrawn.
The controversy over the cricketer's first marriage ended after Shoaib ‘divorced' Ayesha following the intervention of community elders.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Toll in Hyderabad riots rises to three
The tension was back in the old city of Hyderabad today with a person, stabbed during communal clashes last fortnight, succumbing to his injuries in a hospital. With his death, the toll in the communal riots has risen to three.
Narasimha, 54, a resident of Lal Darwaza area, who was stabbed by unidentified people in Hussaini Alam police station area on the night of March 28, died at the Osmania Hospital on Wednesday night.
As news of his death spread, police went on high alert in Shahali Banda and adjacent areas near the historic Charminar to prevent any untoward incident. Even curfew-pass holders were stopped from entering into the old city.
Elaborate security arrangements have been made as some groups are reportedly preparing to take out a funeral procession.
After initial confusion, police relaxed the curfew in these areas along with other-riot hit parts of the city.
The 12-hour curfew relaxation began at 6 a.m. in all 25 police station areas but the movement of people in Shahali Banda and surrounding areas was restricted. Shops and schools remained closed.
Though the day curfew was lifted last Monday, the police are continuing with the night curfew as a precautionary measure.
The riots, which broke out March 27 in the old city following a dispute over religious flags, also left over 150 people injured.
Police said they have registered 152 cases and arrested 200 people in connection with various incidents of violence. (IANS)
Narasimha, 54, a resident of Lal Darwaza area, who was stabbed by unidentified people in Hussaini Alam police station area on the night of March 28, died at the Osmania Hospital on Wednesday night.
As news of his death spread, police went on high alert in Shahali Banda and adjacent areas near the historic Charminar to prevent any untoward incident. Even curfew-pass holders were stopped from entering into the old city.
Elaborate security arrangements have been made as some groups are reportedly preparing to take out a funeral procession.
After initial confusion, police relaxed the curfew in these areas along with other-riot hit parts of the city.
The 12-hour curfew relaxation began at 6 a.m. in all 25 police station areas but the movement of people in Shahali Banda and surrounding areas was restricted. Shops and schools remained closed.
Though the day curfew was lifted last Monday, the police are continuing with the night curfew as a precautionary measure.
The riots, which broke out March 27 in the old city following a dispute over religious flags, also left over 150 people injured.
Police said they have registered 152 cases and arrested 200 people in connection with various incidents of violence. (IANS)
Monday, April 5, 2010
Situation peaceful in riot-hit areas of Hyderabad
Situation in riot-hit areas of Old City here remained peaceful for the third consecutive day today with authorities deciding to relax curfew for nine hours from Monday.
“Curfew will be relaxed from 8 am to 5 pm in all the zones from Monday. The situation will be reviewed on a regular basis and once it is normal, the curfew will be lifted completely,” Hyderabad City Commissioner of Police, A K Khan, told reporters.
However, intense patrolling would continue in trouble-torn areas in the Old City and night-time curfew would be in force, he said.
Mr. Khan, who is monitoring the situation, also played cricket with locals for a while near the famous Charminar in Old City.
Violent clashes between two communities had led to the imposition of indefinite curfew in 17 police stations of South Zone from March 29 and eight police stations of West, Central and East zones from March 30.
Meanwhile, curfew was relaxed for three hours in all the 25 police station limits in two phases today, enabling people to come out and buy essential items.
However, people complained that they were being “virtually looted” with necessary items like vegetables being sold at exorbitant prices.
Daily labourers and roadside vendors, who were hit hard due to the curfew, wanted the government to completely lift it and ensure that the prices of essential commodities were kept under check.
“Due to the curfew, we are facing problems for last several days. Essential items are being sold at more than double the normal prices and common man is at the receiving end,” said a woman, who came out to buy essential items during the curfew relaxation period.
Two people were killed and over 90 persons sustained injuries in the communal clashes that witnessed arson, stabbing, heavy stone pelting and burning of vehicles.
Around 350 persons were taken into custody and 190 cases registered in connection with the riots.
“Curfew will be relaxed from 8 am to 5 pm in all the zones from Monday. The situation will be reviewed on a regular basis and once it is normal, the curfew will be lifted completely,” Hyderabad City Commissioner of Police, A K Khan, told reporters.
However, intense patrolling would continue in trouble-torn areas in the Old City and night-time curfew would be in force, he said.
Mr. Khan, who is monitoring the situation, also played cricket with locals for a while near the famous Charminar in Old City.
Violent clashes between two communities had led to the imposition of indefinite curfew in 17 police stations of South Zone from March 29 and eight police stations of West, Central and East zones from March 30.
Meanwhile, curfew was relaxed for three hours in all the 25 police station limits in two phases today, enabling people to come out and buy essential items.
However, people complained that they were being “virtually looted” with necessary items like vegetables being sold at exorbitant prices.
Daily labourers and roadside vendors, who were hit hard due to the curfew, wanted the government to completely lift it and ensure that the prices of essential commodities were kept under check.
“Due to the curfew, we are facing problems for last several days. Essential items are being sold at more than double the normal prices and common man is at the receiving end,” said a woman, who came out to buy essential items during the curfew relaxation period.
Two people were killed and over 90 persons sustained injuries in the communal clashes that witnessed arson, stabbing, heavy stone pelting and burning of vehicles.
Around 350 persons were taken into custody and 190 cases registered in connection with the riots.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Growing demand to lift curfew in Hyderabad
Daytime curfew may be relaxed: Police Commissioner
The Andhra Pradesh capital limped to normality with no untoward incident being reported from any of the 25 curfew-bound areas of the old city on Saturday, but the authorities seem to be in no mood to lift the curfew, a demand that has been gaining strength among people.
The normal situation during the phased curfew relaxation in 25 police station areas on Saturday has only prompted the authorities to announce further extension of curfew relaxation periods. “If situation improves further, we will consider lifting the day curfew,” Commissioner of Police A.K. Khan said.
Saturday, the fifth day of curfew, tested the patience of not only citizens in the 25 police station areas, but also the policemen enforcing it. “If the situation is normal, why continue the curfew?” was an oft-repeated question media personnel had to face. However, Mr. Khan would only say that the decision to lift the curfew would be entirely based on situational assessment by his team and also on the intelligence inputs. While the Special Investigation Team led by Additional CP, Crimes, K. Narasimha Reddy, began investigation into communal violence, allegations of police harassment have begun to surface from both the communities. While the BJP has accused the police of picking up innocent people just to counter-balance the number of arrests made from the minority community, the Majlis has alleged that the police are unleashing a reign of terror by arresting innocent people. MIM president and MP Asaduddin Owaisi staged a protest in front of Charminar police station on Friday night.
Relaxation time
The relaxation time in Afzalgunj, Begum Bazaar, Shahinayatgunj, Tappachabutra, Asifnagar, Mangalhat, Kulsumpura and Habeebnagar will be extended by one more hour from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Sunday, according to police.
The Andhra Pradesh capital limped to normality with no untoward incident being reported from any of the 25 curfew-bound areas of the old city on Saturday, but the authorities seem to be in no mood to lift the curfew, a demand that has been gaining strength among people.
The normal situation during the phased curfew relaxation in 25 police station areas on Saturday has only prompted the authorities to announce further extension of curfew relaxation periods. “If situation improves further, we will consider lifting the day curfew,” Commissioner of Police A.K. Khan said.
Saturday, the fifth day of curfew, tested the patience of not only citizens in the 25 police station areas, but also the policemen enforcing it. “If the situation is normal, why continue the curfew?” was an oft-repeated question media personnel had to face. However, Mr. Khan would only say that the decision to lift the curfew would be entirely based on situational assessment by his team and also on the intelligence inputs. While the Special Investigation Team led by Additional CP, Crimes, K. Narasimha Reddy, began investigation into communal violence, allegations of police harassment have begun to surface from both the communities. While the BJP has accused the police of picking up innocent people just to counter-balance the number of arrests made from the minority community, the Majlis has alleged that the police are unleashing a reign of terror by arresting innocent people. MIM president and MP Asaduddin Owaisi staged a protest in front of Charminar police station on Friday night.
Relaxation time
The relaxation time in Afzalgunj, Begum Bazaar, Shahinayatgunj, Tappachabutra, Asifnagar, Mangalhat, Kulsumpura and Habeebnagar will be extended by one more hour from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Sunday, according to police.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Curfew continues in riot hit Hyderabad
Curfew continued in riot-hit parts of Hyderabad for the fourth day on Friday. Even though the situation remained peaceful, police were on high alert because of Friday prayers.
Police decided not to relax the curfew in all 25 police station areas since they anticipated trouble during Friday prayers. They have requested Muslims to pray in their homes.
Police Commissioner A.K. Khan told reporters that curfew, which was relaxed for two hours in 17 police station areas on Thursday, would continue without any relaxation Friday.
An eminent Islamic scholar has also ruled that Friday prayers were not a must in curfew-bound areas and appealed to Muslims to pray in their homes. Mufti Khaleel Ahmed, head of the Islamic university Jamia Nizamia, said Friday prayers in mosques are a must only when they can be offered without any disturbance and without endangering lives.
Home Minister P. Sabita Indra Reddy had earlier hinted that curfew could be relaxed for prayers but after a review meeting with Chief Minister K. Rosaiah and police top brass last night, she ruled out the relaxation.
Security has been tightened at all places of worship in Hyderabad and in districts like Adilabad, Mahabubnagar and Nizamabad. The chief minister has directed police to deploy additional forces to ensure peace during Friday prayers.
Meanwhile, no untoward incident has been reported from any part of the city since Tuesday night. However, the home minister made it clear that the curfew would continue till normalcy was restored.
The communal violence, which broke out following a dispute over putting up of religious flags, has so far claimed two lives and left over 150 injured.
Police have increased their probe into various incidents of violence. As many as 200 people have so far been arrested in connection with 67 cases of rioting. The arrests were made for attacks on places of worship, arson and looting and damage to public and private property.
Police decided not to relax the curfew in all 25 police station areas since they anticipated trouble during Friday prayers. They have requested Muslims to pray in their homes.
Police Commissioner A.K. Khan told reporters that curfew, which was relaxed for two hours in 17 police station areas on Thursday, would continue without any relaxation Friday.
An eminent Islamic scholar has also ruled that Friday prayers were not a must in curfew-bound areas and appealed to Muslims to pray in their homes. Mufti Khaleel Ahmed, head of the Islamic university Jamia Nizamia, said Friday prayers in mosques are a must only when they can be offered without any disturbance and without endangering lives.
Home Minister P. Sabita Indra Reddy had earlier hinted that curfew could be relaxed for prayers but after a review meeting with Chief Minister K. Rosaiah and police top brass last night, she ruled out the relaxation.
Security has been tightened at all places of worship in Hyderabad and in districts like Adilabad, Mahabubnagar and Nizamabad. The chief minister has directed police to deploy additional forces to ensure peace during Friday prayers.
Meanwhile, no untoward incident has been reported from any part of the city since Tuesday night. However, the home minister made it clear that the curfew would continue till normalcy was restored.
The communal violence, which broke out following a dispute over putting up of religious flags, has so far claimed two lives and left over 150 injured.
Police have increased their probe into various incidents of violence. As many as 200 people have so far been arrested in connection with 67 cases of rioting. The arrests were made for attacks on places of worship, arson and looting and damage to public and private property.
Clashes: police rely on video footage
Police are relying on video footage to identify the accused in the cases of communal clashes reported in the city in the past three days.
An extensive analysis of the visuals of the violent incidents - majority of them recorded by police - was undertaken to identity the accused, the Hyderabad Police Commissioner, A.K. Khan, told reporters on Wednesday. Nearly 200 video cameras were used by the police to record the clashes reported on Sunday and Monday.
“Police have crucial evidence in the form of video footage of the Bajrang Dal rally that turned violent on Tuesday. Some 75 video cameras were used for this purpose,” Mr. Khan said.
Different timings were adopted for curfew relaxation to optimally use forces available focussing on trouble prone areas.
“People better buy essential commodities for at least two days as there will not be any curfew relaxation on Friday in South Zone,” the Commissioner said. No decision was taken yet on relaxing curfew in eight police stations of West zone and one each in Central and East zones.
The relaxation period is meant to purchase essential commodities, milk, groceries and medicines.
Arrangements were being made in coordination with marketing department to sell vegetables and other goods, he said.
Meanwhile, the circulation of hate messages through short message service of mobile phones during communal clashes was being investigated by the Cyber Crime Cell.
An extensive analysis of the visuals of the violent incidents - majority of them recorded by police - was undertaken to identity the accused, the Hyderabad Police Commissioner, A.K. Khan, told reporters on Wednesday. Nearly 200 video cameras were used by the police to record the clashes reported on Sunday and Monday.
“Police have crucial evidence in the form of video footage of the Bajrang Dal rally that turned violent on Tuesday. Some 75 video cameras were used for this purpose,” Mr. Khan said.
Different timings were adopted for curfew relaxation to optimally use forces available focussing on trouble prone areas.
“People better buy essential commodities for at least two days as there will not be any curfew relaxation on Friday in South Zone,” the Commissioner said. No decision was taken yet on relaxing curfew in eight police stations of West zone and one each in Central and East zones.
The relaxation period is meant to purchase essential commodities, milk, groceries and medicines.
Arrangements were being made in coordination with marketing department to sell vegetables and other goods, he said.
Meanwhile, the circulation of hate messages through short message service of mobile phones during communal clashes was being investigated by the Cyber Crime Cell.
Judicial inquiry into communal riots demanded
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has demanded a judicial inquiry into the circumstances leading to the communal riots in Hyderabad.
CPI (M) State secretary B.V. Raghavulu, addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, said that the situation had deteriorated to such an extent that a curfew had to be imposed in the old city. Though the situation was extremely grave, the police and the State government were playing the role of spectator, he alleged.
It had come out that the attacks were being made in a planned manner with the “conspirators” sending SMSs to different areas, he said.
The CPI (M) leader said no action was taken though there were early indications of trouble during Sriramanavami and Milad-un-nabi. He sought to know what the intelligence wing was doing.
Since there was a failure on the part of the police too, only a judicial inquiry would bring out the truth. It was the responsibility of the State government to make public the names of the conspirators. The Government was taking a ‘meditative and spiritual posture' towards all the problems the people were facing, he alleged.
Mr. Raghavulu made an appeal to the public to participate in large numbers in the picketing and jail bharo programmes of the Left parties and its allies on April 8 to register their protest against the indifference of the State and Central governments towards the issue of continuous rise in the prices of essential commodities.
Quoting figures, he said that the Central government came up with a budget to increase prices putting indirect burden to the tune of Rs. 45,000 crore on the people. On the other hand it reduced the subsidy on food and increased burden on the poor.
It became evident in the re-surveys conducted by the officials that ration cards were being weeded out to reduce the number of cards. A large portion of the cards that were weeded out were genuine.
CPI (M) State secretary B.V. Raghavulu, addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, said that the situation had deteriorated to such an extent that a curfew had to be imposed in the old city. Though the situation was extremely grave, the police and the State government were playing the role of spectator, he alleged.
It had come out that the attacks were being made in a planned manner with the “conspirators” sending SMSs to different areas, he said.
The CPI (M) leader said no action was taken though there were early indications of trouble during Sriramanavami and Milad-un-nabi. He sought to know what the intelligence wing was doing.
Since there was a failure on the part of the police too, only a judicial inquiry would bring out the truth. It was the responsibility of the State government to make public the names of the conspirators. The Government was taking a ‘meditative and spiritual posture' towards all the problems the people were facing, he alleged.
Mr. Raghavulu made an appeal to the public to participate in large numbers in the picketing and jail bharo programmes of the Left parties and its allies on April 8 to register their protest against the indifference of the State and Central governments towards the issue of continuous rise in the prices of essential commodities.
Quoting figures, he said that the Central government came up with a budget to increase prices putting indirect burden to the tune of Rs. 45,000 crore on the people. On the other hand it reduced the subsidy on food and increased burden on the poor.
It became evident in the re-surveys conducted by the officials that ration cards were being weeded out to reduce the number of cards. A large portion of the cards that were weeded out were genuine.
Streets remain deserted in old city
Life, as if by a wave of magic wand, seems to have screeched to a grinding halt in parts of the once walled city of Hyderabad. The usual buzz is sorely missing, streets remain deserted and all pervading is an uncertain calm that stirs memories of a forgotten period when communal violence and curfew came visiting in tandem. On Wednesday, second day of the curfew, citizens in the old city remain nervous and edgy. Small and motley gatherings hang around lane corners, youngsters either vanish into the by-lanes on being spotted or step forward to belligerently enquire the motive of visitors to their areas and women roam around in search of outlets to pick essential commodities. There has been no supply of milk and scarce is the availability of vegetables. “We are in a bad shape, even milk is not available and the drinking water supply was not there yesterday,” bemoans Suresh at Alijah Kotla. Near Purani Haveli, Ramraj Chauhan points out that a milk packet priced at Rs.13 was being sold between Rs.20 and Rs.25. “With no work for last two days and little money on hand, how do we pay so high,” he says.
For most, the threads of communal harmony are not strained due to the recent violence. Neighbouring families of Jehangir and Narsing Rao chat away the curfew blues at Etebar Chowk.
“All is fine here and there is nothing to bother us. We are comfortable as always,” says Jehangir as Rao's mother nods her assent. Some have their woes compounded severely due to curfew restrictions. Md.Raheemuddin, a senior citizen from Falaknuma has acute stomach pain and needs urgent medical attention.
Sweating profusely and frail hands shaking from the pain, he says, “a surgery planned for my ulcer problem got affected and now I am trying to go to curfew free area for it”.
This being the auspicious period for marriages, many having scheduled weddings in family for tomorrow could be seen nervously thronging the police stations for permission of some sorts.
For most, the threads of communal harmony are not strained due to the recent violence. Neighbouring families of Jehangir and Narsing Rao chat away the curfew blues at Etebar Chowk.
“All is fine here and there is nothing to bother us. We are comfortable as always,” says Jehangir as Rao's mother nods her assent. Some have their woes compounded severely due to curfew restrictions. Md.Raheemuddin, a senior citizen from Falaknuma has acute stomach pain and needs urgent medical attention.
Sweating profusely and frail hands shaking from the pain, he says, “a surgery planned for my ulcer problem got affected and now I am trying to go to curfew free area for it”.
This being the auspicious period for marriages, many having scheduled weddings in family for tomorrow could be seen nervously thronging the police stations for permission of some sorts.
Communal aggression, a cumulative effect
The conflict over tying of religious flags might appear to be the flashpoint for the communal clashes that led to enforcement of curfew in the old city, but the sudden outburst of unbridled aggression from both the communities was the cumulative effect of various developments over the past few weeks.
These developments, both political and religious, have led to growing distrust between the communities and the muscle-flexing by political parties to consolidate their bases made the residents nurture a confrontationist attitude.
The flare-up of violence is a direct outcome of this hardened attitude.
A pattern
There is a pattern if one were to examine some seemingly unconnected developments over the past few weeks. The Jamaat e-Islami Hind's public meeting in Hyderabad in which Jamaat leaders had endorsed the demand for the State's bifurcation, contrary to the stand taken by the MIM seemed to have set the ball rolling.
The MIM, despite its complete sway over the minority community, perceived it as a development that could erode its political base and renewed its efforts to further consolidate its base, though these efforts were not directed against any political party.
A series of developments like celebration of Milad-un-Nabi on an unprecedented scale, (where thousands of religious flags were pitched at various places and buntings strung across the streets), a massive rally on account of MIM's 52{+n}{+d} year of revival, the party's agitation demanding reservation for minorities had led to some unease among some sections of the majority community.
Deep suspicion
This section in the majority community had always been nurturing the feeling that the minorities were being given undue importance and that the police always handled them with kid gloves.
Several cite the example of police being extremely accommodative in allowing a minority procession via Assembly building, bypassing the prohibitory orders.
These developments, keenly watched by the other community, were sought to be counter-balanced. Public meetings were addressed by religious leaders like Acharya Dharmendra or VHP leaders where some controversial statements were made. The majority community was exhorted to celebrate Sri Ramanavami and Hanuman Jayanti on a massive scale and the underlying message was that it should surpass the Milad-un-Nabi procession.
Trigger point
In this scenario, the efforts to pitch saffron flags after removing the green flags led to the first conflict in Madannapet, but the issue was localised with timely police intervention.
However, it took an ugly turn on the night of March 27 when groups clashed in Moosabowli over the issue of removing and tying new buntings.
The next day, violence flared up and continued till Tuesday.
The other contributory factor for the current situation is the failure of the law enforcement agencies to put two and two together and initiate security arrangements.
This is the reason why police failed to anticipate that the Bajrang Dal rally on Tuesday would turn violent and allowed it to take out the procession despite the situation being very tense.
The failure was further accentuated with the general sense of apathy among the police ranks at the cutting-edge level as they believed that any stern action could be construed as ‘over action' marking them for departmental harassment at the behest of political parties.
The sum total of all these developments is the situation which the State capital is witnessing now.
It remains to be seen whether the investigating agencies would manage to get any evidence to substantiate the allegations of political conspiracy theories doing the rounds.
These developments, both political and religious, have led to growing distrust between the communities and the muscle-flexing by political parties to consolidate their bases made the residents nurture a confrontationist attitude.
The flare-up of violence is a direct outcome of this hardened attitude.
A pattern
There is a pattern if one were to examine some seemingly unconnected developments over the past few weeks. The Jamaat e-Islami Hind's public meeting in Hyderabad in which Jamaat leaders had endorsed the demand for the State's bifurcation, contrary to the stand taken by the MIM seemed to have set the ball rolling.
The MIM, despite its complete sway over the minority community, perceived it as a development that could erode its political base and renewed its efforts to further consolidate its base, though these efforts were not directed against any political party.
A series of developments like celebration of Milad-un-Nabi on an unprecedented scale, (where thousands of religious flags were pitched at various places and buntings strung across the streets), a massive rally on account of MIM's 52{+n}{+d} year of revival, the party's agitation demanding reservation for minorities had led to some unease among some sections of the majority community.
Deep suspicion
This section in the majority community had always been nurturing the feeling that the minorities were being given undue importance and that the police always handled them with kid gloves.
Several cite the example of police being extremely accommodative in allowing a minority procession via Assembly building, bypassing the prohibitory orders.
These developments, keenly watched by the other community, were sought to be counter-balanced. Public meetings were addressed by religious leaders like Acharya Dharmendra or VHP leaders where some controversial statements were made. The majority community was exhorted to celebrate Sri Ramanavami and Hanuman Jayanti on a massive scale and the underlying message was that it should surpass the Milad-un-Nabi procession.
Trigger point
In this scenario, the efforts to pitch saffron flags after removing the green flags led to the first conflict in Madannapet, but the issue was localised with timely police intervention.
However, it took an ugly turn on the night of March 27 when groups clashed in Moosabowli over the issue of removing and tying new buntings.
The next day, violence flared up and continued till Tuesday.
The other contributory factor for the current situation is the failure of the law enforcement agencies to put two and two together and initiate security arrangements.
This is the reason why police failed to anticipate that the Bajrang Dal rally on Tuesday would turn violent and allowed it to take out the procession despite the situation being very tense.
The failure was further accentuated with the general sense of apathy among the police ranks at the cutting-edge level as they believed that any stern action could be construed as ‘over action' marking them for departmental harassment at the behest of political parties.
The sum total of all these developments is the situation which the State capital is witnessing now.
It remains to be seen whether the investigating agencies would manage to get any evidence to substantiate the allegations of political conspiracy theories doing the rounds.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Shoot-at-sight in old city
Shoot at sight orders have been issued in Old City and indefinite curfew was extended to eight more places on Tuesday as clashes spread to more areas.
Fresh clashes broke out at Musheerabad, Nallagutta, Ramgopalpet, Begum Bazar, Kavadiguda, Rasoolpura, Malakpet and Kavadiguda in the wake of a religious procession.
One person suffered bullet injury on Tuesday after police opened fire on a mob resorting to violence at Karwan.
A huge mob ransacked two shops at Begum Bazar chatri, and set one shop on fire. Police fired at least 16 rounds including teargas shells and rubber bullets to disperse the mob. Six persons reportedly sustained injuries after being hit by bullets.
Eight persons, including a couple sustained injuries in sporadic incidents of stone pelting at Mangalhat and Puranapul. Most of the injured have been admitted in the Osmania General Hospital.
In the wake of the continuing clashes, indefinite curfew has been imposed in Afzalgunz, Begumbazar, Shahinathgunz, Tappachaputra, Asifnagar, Mangalhat, Kulsumpura and Habibnagar.
Curfew is unlikely to be relaxed on Wednesday morning and police has warned of action against those who enter public streets without letters from the competent authority.
The city commissioner, Mr A.K. Khan, said that police has been asked to take the maximum possible action against unruly mobs. “That includes opening fire at mobs resorting to violence and attacks," he asserted.
In all, two persons have died in the clashes in the Old City so far, even as new bouts of violence left 112 people injured.
Trouble was triggered on Tuesday by a religious procession that moved from Gowilpura to Tadbun in Bowenpally. All along the route there were clashes and several people were injured in stone pelting and attacks.
Clashes that began in South Zone limits of the Old City spread to Central Zone, West, East and North Zones.
City cops came under sever criticism for permitting the procession through sensitive areas. At some places hundreds of motorcycle-borne men deviated from the original procession route and resorted to violence. There was retaliation from the other group, leading to clashes.
The commissioner visited Musheerabad area soon after the clashes broke out. Two groups also clashed in Bholakpur and Indiranagar and set fire to several vehicles.
“We have taken around 25 trouble-makers into custody and three persons were injured in the clash at Musheerabad,” said the Central Zone DCP, Mr Hari Kumar. “We are making the leaders of both the communities sit together and sort the issues."
The North Zone DCP, Mr Murali Krishna, admitted that many who took part in the procession had deviated from the route.
Meanwhile, ordinary people were put to untold difficulty because of the clashes and curfew in more than 20 localities across the city.
"Police should relax curfew at least for two hours during day so that people can purchase vegetables, milk and other essentials," said Mr Abdul Hameed, a resident of Falaknuma.
Hundreds of rail passengers were also put to hardship following violence in Musheerabad, Bholakpur and areas adjacent to Secunderabad railway station. Though all the trains were operated as usual, many travellers found it difficult to reach the station.
"So far, we have not cancelled trains including MMTS services,” said Chandrima Roy, chief public relations officer of SCR. “We are taking the help of local police to know the situation in the city.”
The Hyderabad city region of APSRTC has cancelled around 400 bus services in Old City areas. Meanwhile, police informed that curfew passes were being issued at main control room, the commissioner of police office and the special branch office.
Fresh clashes broke out at Musheerabad, Nallagutta, Ramgopalpet, Begum Bazar, Kavadiguda, Rasoolpura, Malakpet and Kavadiguda in the wake of a religious procession.
One person suffered bullet injury on Tuesday after police opened fire on a mob resorting to violence at Karwan.
A huge mob ransacked two shops at Begum Bazar chatri, and set one shop on fire. Police fired at least 16 rounds including teargas shells and rubber bullets to disperse the mob. Six persons reportedly sustained injuries after being hit by bullets.
Eight persons, including a couple sustained injuries in sporadic incidents of stone pelting at Mangalhat and Puranapul. Most of the injured have been admitted in the Osmania General Hospital.
In the wake of the continuing clashes, indefinite curfew has been imposed in Afzalgunz, Begumbazar, Shahinathgunz, Tappachaputra, Asifnagar, Mangalhat, Kulsumpura and Habibnagar.
Curfew is unlikely to be relaxed on Wednesday morning and police has warned of action against those who enter public streets without letters from the competent authority.
The city commissioner, Mr A.K. Khan, said that police has been asked to take the maximum possible action against unruly mobs. “That includes opening fire at mobs resorting to violence and attacks," he asserted.
In all, two persons have died in the clashes in the Old City so far, even as new bouts of violence left 112 people injured.
Trouble was triggered on Tuesday by a religious procession that moved from Gowilpura to Tadbun in Bowenpally. All along the route there were clashes and several people were injured in stone pelting and attacks.
Clashes that began in South Zone limits of the Old City spread to Central Zone, West, East and North Zones.
City cops came under sever criticism for permitting the procession through sensitive areas. At some places hundreds of motorcycle-borne men deviated from the original procession route and resorted to violence. There was retaliation from the other group, leading to clashes.
The commissioner visited Musheerabad area soon after the clashes broke out. Two groups also clashed in Bholakpur and Indiranagar and set fire to several vehicles.
“We have taken around 25 trouble-makers into custody and three persons were injured in the clash at Musheerabad,” said the Central Zone DCP, Mr Hari Kumar. “We are making the leaders of both the communities sit together and sort the issues."
The North Zone DCP, Mr Murali Krishna, admitted that many who took part in the procession had deviated from the route.
Meanwhile, ordinary people were put to untold difficulty because of the clashes and curfew in more than 20 localities across the city.
"Police should relax curfew at least for two hours during day so that people can purchase vegetables, milk and other essentials," said Mr Abdul Hameed, a resident of Falaknuma.
Hundreds of rail passengers were also put to hardship following violence in Musheerabad, Bholakpur and areas adjacent to Secunderabad railway station. Though all the trains were operated as usual, many travellers found it difficult to reach the station.
"So far, we have not cancelled trains including MMTS services,” said Chandrima Roy, chief public relations officer of SCR. “We are taking the help of local police to know the situation in the city.”
The Hyderabad city region of APSRTC has cancelled around 400 bus services in Old City areas. Meanwhile, police informed that curfew passes were being issued at main control room, the commissioner of police office and the special branch office.
Bellary hand behind clashes?
Intelligence sleuths have got information that a key Karnataka BJP minister and Bellary strongman allegedly funded radical Hindu outfits to orchestrate riots in the city.
A top intelligence source told this correspondent that the minister, who runs mines in AP, had developed a grouse against the K. Rosaiah government for its swift action in curbing illegal mining and transport of ore and for its cancellation of mine leases.
“Using his money power, this minister had reportedly arranged funding to different outfits in the city,” said the source. The state Congress leadership, which has got the information about the Karnataka minister’s alleged role, has communicated it to the AICC leadership. It is learnt that the Congress president, Mrs Sonia Gandhi, who was briefed about the intelligence findings, has directed the state government to take firm steps in handling the law and order situation.
Meanwhile, the Vijayawada Congress MP, Mr Lagadapati Rajagopal, who met the Congress president’s political secretary, Mr Ahmed Patel, also alleged that Hyderabad riots were the handiwork of the BJP.
“It is all happening after Mr Kishen Reddy took the reins of the party in the state,” he said. “The BJP wants to prove its existence in Hyderabad through this.” He appealed to state government to curb the incidents with iron hand and warned that Pakistan’s ISI would further exploit the situation.
The former minister, Mr J.C. Diwakar Reddy, a close confidante of the Chief Minister, also met Mr Ahmed Patel on Tuesday morning and briefed him about the latest situation in the state. Mr Diwakar Reddy told mediapersons, “Certainly there is an effort to destablise the Rosaiah government at any cost,” he said.
A top intelligence source told this correspondent that the minister, who runs mines in AP, had developed a grouse against the K. Rosaiah government for its swift action in curbing illegal mining and transport of ore and for its cancellation of mine leases.
“Using his money power, this minister had reportedly arranged funding to different outfits in the city,” said the source. The state Congress leadership, which has got the information about the Karnataka minister’s alleged role, has communicated it to the AICC leadership. It is learnt that the Congress president, Mrs Sonia Gandhi, who was briefed about the intelligence findings, has directed the state government to take firm steps in handling the law and order situation.
Meanwhile, the Vijayawada Congress MP, Mr Lagadapati Rajagopal, who met the Congress president’s political secretary, Mr Ahmed Patel, also alleged that Hyderabad riots were the handiwork of the BJP.
“It is all happening after Mr Kishen Reddy took the reins of the party in the state,” he said. “The BJP wants to prove its existence in Hyderabad through this.” He appealed to state government to curb the incidents with iron hand and warned that Pakistan’s ISI would further exploit the situation.
The former minister, Mr J.C. Diwakar Reddy, a close confidante of the Chief Minister, also met Mr Ahmed Patel on Tuesday morning and briefed him about the latest situation in the state. Mr Diwakar Reddy told mediapersons, “Certainly there is an effort to destablise the Rosaiah government at any cost,” he said.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Curfew in 8 more police station zones: AK Khan
Curfew in 8 more PC Zones
Afzal gunj
Begam bazar
shahinaz gunj
Tapach butra
Asif Nagar
Mangalhat
Kulsumpura
Habib Nagar
Afzal gunj
Begam bazar
shahinaz gunj
Tapach butra
Asif Nagar
Mangalhat
Kulsumpura
Habib Nagar
Hyderabad continues to be tense
Situation remained tense on Tuesday in several areas of the old city where curfew was clamped following incidents of communal violence, which left one dead and 80 injured since Saturday.
Curfew, imposed on Monday evening, has been extended till 6 pm today, South Zone DCP Madhusudhan Reddy said.
Due to curfew, 10th class examinations in 140 centres in South Zone area have been postponed, he said.
The Centre has rushed 1,800 paramilitary personnel to restore peace in the sensitive areas. The entire force has been put on alert to maintain law and order in view of Hanuman Jayanti celebrations on Tuesday.
Fresh violence erupted on Monday in Moghalpura, Shalibanda, Charminar, Aliabad, Falaknuma, Shamsheergunj and Lal Darwaja localities after a group of miscreants pelted stones at passersby which increased tension, police said.
One person was stabbed to death yesterday and another hurt in the Shalibanda area. Another person was injured when a vehicle was attacked at Khilwat Chowrasta, they said.
About 130 persons, suspected to be involved in the communal clashes, have been taken into custody so far, police added.
Curfew, imposed on Monday evening, has been extended till 6 pm today, South Zone DCP Madhusudhan Reddy said.
Due to curfew, 10th class examinations in 140 centres in South Zone area have been postponed, he said.
The Centre has rushed 1,800 paramilitary personnel to restore peace in the sensitive areas. The entire force has been put on alert to maintain law and order in view of Hanuman Jayanti celebrations on Tuesday.
Fresh violence erupted on Monday in Moghalpura, Shalibanda, Charminar, Aliabad, Falaknuma, Shamsheergunj and Lal Darwaja localities after a group of miscreants pelted stones at passersby which increased tension, police said.
One person was stabbed to death yesterday and another hurt in the Shalibanda area. Another person was injured when a vehicle was attacked at Khilwat Chowrasta, they said.
About 130 persons, suspected to be involved in the communal clashes, have been taken into custody so far, police added.
Sania to wed Shoaib, settle in Dubai
India’s ace tennis player, Sania Mirza is to marry Shoaib Malik, the former cricket captain of Pakistan. The wedding has been scheduled within a month.
“The couple will be based in Dubai, where Shoaib is a resident and Sania will continue to play tennis once she recovers fully from the serious wrist injury,” Sania’s father, Mr Imran Mirza, told this newspaper on Monday.
Sania is understandably excited about her marriage. “My wedding is, Inshallah, going to be the biggest day of my life,” the 23-year-old said, adding, “I have been in constant glare for too long and would appreciate the privacy at this very personal moment in my life.”
In a statement, Shoaib vowed to support Sania in her career. “I fully understand what it takes to be an international sportsperson and I will support Sania in her career as long as she wishes to play,” the cricketer said, while confirming the news.
Sania recently broke off her engagement with Mr Sohrab Mirza, a childhood friend. Shoaib was involved in a controversy over marrying Ms Ayesha Siddiqui, a Hyderabadi. Ms Siddiqui is also known to Sania’s family.
“Representing India at the 2012 Olympics is very important for her and I will be the proudest husband if she can win a medal for her country,” Shoaib added.
Sania, a former top-30 player, is planning a comeback just before Wimbledon in June. “I hope to be fully fit to represent India in the Commonwealth and Asian Games that are scheduled for later this year,” she said.
Imran, who has coached Sania through her career, observed: “This is a unique case where the husband and wife will represent their respective countries in sport.”
Sania’s mother, Ms Nasima Mirza, was delighted. “Marriages are made in heaven,” she said.
“The couple will be based in Dubai, where Shoaib is a resident and Sania will continue to play tennis once she recovers fully from the serious wrist injury,” Sania’s father, Mr Imran Mirza, told this newspaper on Monday.
Sania is understandably excited about her marriage. “My wedding is, Inshallah, going to be the biggest day of my life,” the 23-year-old said, adding, “I have been in constant glare for too long and would appreciate the privacy at this very personal moment in my life.”
In a statement, Shoaib vowed to support Sania in her career. “I fully understand what it takes to be an international sportsperson and I will support Sania in her career as long as she wishes to play,” the cricketer said, while confirming the news.
Sania recently broke off her engagement with Mr Sohrab Mirza, a childhood friend. Shoaib was involved in a controversy over marrying Ms Ayesha Siddiqui, a Hyderabadi. Ms Siddiqui is also known to Sania’s family.
“Representing India at the 2012 Olympics is very important for her and I will be the proudest husband if she can win a medal for her country,” Shoaib added.
Sania, a former top-30 player, is planning a comeback just before Wimbledon in June. “I hope to be fully fit to represent India in the Commonwealth and Asian Games that are scheduled for later this year,” she said.
Imran, who has coached Sania through her career, observed: “This is a unique case where the husband and wife will represent their respective countries in sport.”
Sania’s mother, Ms Nasima Mirza, was delighted. “Marriages are made in heaven,” she said.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Situation in old city of Hyderabad is worse and lead to Curfew in South Zone
The situation in old city of Hyderabad has transformed from bad to worse. People were seen pelting stones and in one incident one person who was stabbed died in the hospital. We would not like to reveal the religion of the dead person since this would only inflame the tensions.
Curfew has been imposed in the South Zone of Hyderabad which would come into effect from 7 PM today. South Zone covers Moosarambagh, Saidabad, Saroornagar, Barkas, Moghalpura, Falaknuma, Puranapul, Begum Bazaar, Shali Banda, and Rajendra area (For entire list please see the list below)
Seven more central battalions and additional forces, including nearly 1000 paramilitary personnel dispatched by the centre, were being deployed to restore peace in the trouble-hit areas.
Miscreants attacked passersby with knives and other sharp-edged weapons in Gowliguda, Falaknuma, Shamsheergunj and Chatrinaka areas after asking them to identify themselves. Women and children were not spared either. About a dozen places of worship were targeted by unruly crowds, who also torched a few shops, a cattle shelter and vehicles.
Even the media persons were not spared. TV9, NTV, TV5 and Eendau's reporters were reported to have suffered injuries.
Police Commissioner AK Khan has termed the incidents "pre-planned". Seventy people have been arrested in connection with the violence.
While the tensions have been rocking the old city the rain god sent rains to cool some tempers.
South Zone areas
---------------------------
Moosarambagh
Saidabad
I.S.Sadan
Santoshnagar
Riyasat Nagar
Kanchanbagh
Barkas
Chandrayan gutta
Jangammet
Uppuguda
Lalithabagh
Rain Bazar
Kurmaguda
Chavni
Akberbagh
Saleem Nagar
Old Malakpet
Azampura
Dabeerpura
Noorkhan Bazar
Pathergatti
Talabchanchalam
Moghalpura
Gowlipura
Aliabad
Falaknuma
Nawabsaheb Kunta
Jahanuma
Fathe Darwaza
Shali Banda
Hussain Alam
Ghansi Bazar
Begum Bazar
Gosha Mahal
Dhoolpet
Puranapul
Doodbowli
Ramnaspura
Kishanbagh
Rajendra Nagar
Shivarampally
Mylardevpally
Rajendra Nagar
Attapur
Curfew has been imposed in the South Zone of Hyderabad which would come into effect from 7 PM today. South Zone covers Moosarambagh, Saidabad, Saroornagar, Barkas, Moghalpura, Falaknuma, Puranapul, Begum Bazaar, Shali Banda, and Rajendra area (For entire list please see the list below)
Seven more central battalions and additional forces, including nearly 1000 paramilitary personnel dispatched by the centre, were being deployed to restore peace in the trouble-hit areas.
Miscreants attacked passersby with knives and other sharp-edged weapons in Gowliguda, Falaknuma, Shamsheergunj and Chatrinaka areas after asking them to identify themselves. Women and children were not spared either. About a dozen places of worship were targeted by unruly crowds, who also torched a few shops, a cattle shelter and vehicles.
Even the media persons were not spared. TV9, NTV, TV5 and Eendau's reporters were reported to have suffered injuries.
Police Commissioner AK Khan has termed the incidents "pre-planned". Seventy people have been arrested in connection with the violence.
While the tensions have been rocking the old city the rain god sent rains to cool some tempers.
South Zone areas
---------------------------
Moosarambagh
Saidabad
I.S.Sadan
Santoshnagar
Riyasat Nagar
Kanchanbagh
Barkas
Chandrayan gutta
Jangammet
Uppuguda
Lalithabagh
Rain Bazar
Kurmaguda
Chavni
Akberbagh
Saleem Nagar
Old Malakpet
Azampura
Dabeerpura
Noorkhan Bazar
Pathergatti
Talabchanchalam
Moghalpura
Gowlipura
Aliabad
Falaknuma
Nawabsaheb Kunta
Jahanuma
Fathe Darwaza
Shali Banda
Hussain Alam
Ghansi Bazar
Begum Bazar
Gosha Mahal
Dhoolpet
Puranapul
Doodbowli
Ramnaspura
Kishanbagh
Rajendra Nagar
Shivarampally
Mylardevpally
Rajendra Nagar
Attapur
