TCN Person of the Year 2010 | TwoCircles.net
Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, Human Rights Activist
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL
AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL
Public statement
AI Index: ASA 16/010/2010
16 July 2010
Myanmar elections will test ASEAN’s credibility
Southeast Asian nations should press the Myanmar government to protect the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association throughout the elections period and beyond, Amnesty International said today on the eve of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Ha Noi.
ASEAN has repeatedly emphasized that the elections should be held in a “free, fair and inclusive manner”. Yet those calls do not go far enough to highlight the human rights that are most at risk in the elections context. Indeed, the Myanmar government has not taken any steps to improve its poor human rights record as the polls approach.
More than 2,200 political prisoners continue to languish behind bars in Myanmar. This is double the number since the start of the mass peaceful anti-government protests of August – September 2007—a huge indictment of the grim human rights situation there.
Under Electoral Laws enacted in March, no political prisoner can take part in the elections, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. The same laws also prohibit them from membership in any political party.
ASEAN should unequivocally call for the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners of conscience at the Ministerial Meeting, something they conspicuously failed to do at the organisation’s summit in Ha Noi in April.
The Electoral Laws also list a number of offences and penalties, among them—a blatant violation of freedom of expression—a vaguely worded provision against "exhorting" persons to vote or not to vote in the elections.
Moreover, in a 21 June directive issued by the Union Election Commission, political parties are prohibited from campaigning activities that “harm security, the rule of law and community peace”. These regulations allow for an excessively broad interpretation of what constitutes a threat to “security”. For decades the authorities have routinely used vaguely worded laws to arbitrarily criminalize peaceful political dissent.
New censorship rules introduced in June also serve to undermine any remaining scope for independent journalism around the elections process.
The “three freedoms”—of expression, peaceful assembly, and association—must be safeguarded for all, whether people choose to participate in the elections or not. It is not enough for ASEAN to adopt a “wait and see” attitude.
ASEAN states must also be prepared to speak out forcefully if individuals are harassed and detained for their peaceful political views and activities in the run-up to the elections.
Failure to address these urgent challenges will damage ASEAN’s international credibility. It is crucial that ASEAN seizes this opportunity to work towards the realisation of long overdue human rights improvements in Myanmar.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises 10 member states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The annual ASEAN Ministerial Meeting takes place from 19 – 23 July this year.
ENDS/
Public Document
****************************************
For more information please call Amnesty International's press office in London, UK, on +44 20 7413 5566 or email: press@amnesty.org
International Secretariat, Amnesty International, 1 Easton St., London WC1X 0DW, UK
www.amnesty.org
Public statement
AI Index: ASA 16/010/2010
16 July 2010
Myanmar elections will test ASEAN’s credibility
Southeast Asian nations should press the Myanmar government to protect the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association throughout the elections period and beyond, Amnesty International said today on the eve of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Ha Noi.
ASEAN has repeatedly emphasized that the elections should be held in a “free, fair and inclusive manner”. Yet those calls do not go far enough to highlight the human rights that are most at risk in the elections context. Indeed, the Myanmar government has not taken any steps to improve its poor human rights record as the polls approach.
More than 2,200 political prisoners continue to languish behind bars in Myanmar. This is double the number since the start of the mass peaceful anti-government protests of August – September 2007—a huge indictment of the grim human rights situation there.
Under Electoral Laws enacted in March, no political prisoner can take part in the elections, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. The same laws also prohibit them from membership in any political party.
ASEAN should unequivocally call for the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners of conscience at the Ministerial Meeting, something they conspicuously failed to do at the organisation’s summit in Ha Noi in April.
The Electoral Laws also list a number of offences and penalties, among them—a blatant violation of freedom of expression—a vaguely worded provision against "exhorting" persons to vote or not to vote in the elections.
Moreover, in a 21 June directive issued by the Union Election Commission, political parties are prohibited from campaigning activities that “harm security, the rule of law and community peace”. These regulations allow for an excessively broad interpretation of what constitutes a threat to “security”. For decades the authorities have routinely used vaguely worded laws to arbitrarily criminalize peaceful political dissent.
New censorship rules introduced in June also serve to undermine any remaining scope for independent journalism around the elections process.
The “three freedoms”—of expression, peaceful assembly, and association—must be safeguarded for all, whether people choose to participate in the elections or not. It is not enough for ASEAN to adopt a “wait and see” attitude.
ASEAN states must also be prepared to speak out forcefully if individuals are harassed and detained for their peaceful political views and activities in the run-up to the elections.
Failure to address these urgent challenges will damage ASEAN’s international credibility. It is crucial that ASEAN seizes this opportunity to work towards the realisation of long overdue human rights improvements in Myanmar.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises 10 member states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The annual ASEAN Ministerial Meeting takes place from 19 – 23 July this year.
ENDS/
Public Document
****************************************
For more information please call Amnesty International's press office in London, UK, on +44 20 7413 5566 or email: press@amnesty.org
International Secretariat, Amnesty International, 1 Easton St., London WC1X 0DW, UK
www.amnesty.org
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Jammu and Kashmir authorities urged to end detention of lawyers
Jammu and Kashmir authorities urged to end detention of lawyers
22 July 2010
The Jammu and Kashmir state government must immediately end the preventive detention of the leaders of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association, Amnesty International said on Wednesday.
Mian Abdul Qayoom, the President of the Bar Association and Ghulam Nabi Shaheen, its General Secretary, have been arbitrarily detained under the J&K Public Safety Act (PSA) since 7 July and 18 July 2010 respectively.
The vaguely formulated PSA allows for detentions of up to two years without charge or trial on the presumption that future acts harmful to the state may be committed.
"The detention of the Bar Association leaders appears to be an attempt to stifle legitimate and peaceful protest, as part of the ongoing crackdown by the authorities in parts of Kashmir," said Sam Zarifi, Asia-Pacific Director at Amnesty International
The grounds of detention prepared by the Srinagar District Magistrate relating to Mian Qayoom allege he is attempting to turn the Bar Association into "a secessionist outfit" indulging in "illegal activities".
Four previous criminal cases registered involving Mian Qayoom between October 2008 and June 2010 are also mentioned in the document which accuses him of instigating recent protests that have reportedly left at least 18 people dead.
"The state administration has resorted to preventive detention under the PSA, which subverts the judicial process," Zarifi said. "If the government has criminal charges to bring, it should do so in a properly constituted criminal trial where Mian Qayoom will have the protections afforded under the law, for instance, the ability to post bail."
The official grounds of detention against Mian Qayoom state that he is being detained for questioning the conduct of government security forces and for his political views.
Reports indicate the General Secretary of the Bar Association, Ghulam Nabi Shaheen, is being detained on similar grounds as well as for organizing public rallies seeking the release of Mian Qayoom.
"The arbitrary use of the PSA to detain government critics is yet another demonstration of why this law must be repealed," Zarifi said.
The Kashmir valley has witnessed mass public protests over the past several months, initially over the extrajudicial executions of three men at Machil, Baramulla district, and subsequently by killings of protesters by Central Reserve Police Force personnel.
At least 18 people, many of them teenagers, were allegedly killed during a crackdown on protests that began on 11 June 2010.
Amnesty International has previously demanded that the Indian authorities avoid excessive use of force and investigate all the deaths due to the shootings.
The State administration has also responded by placing a large number of people in preventive detention instead of charging and trying them – including those reportedly suspected of throwing stones at the police and others suspected of inciting violence by posting inflammatory material online.
A number of political leaders have also been recently detained including Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani, and his aides Mohammad Ashraf Sahrai, Ayaz Akbar, Mohammad Yousuf Mujahid and Zafar Akbar Bhat. Prominent Kashmiri leaders including Shabbir Shah and Nayeem Ahmed Khan also continue to remain in detention under the PSA.
22 July 2010
The Jammu and Kashmir state government must immediately end the preventive detention of the leaders of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association, Amnesty International said on Wednesday.
Mian Abdul Qayoom, the President of the Bar Association and Ghulam Nabi Shaheen, its General Secretary, have been arbitrarily detained under the J&K Public Safety Act (PSA) since 7 July and 18 July 2010 respectively.
The vaguely formulated PSA allows for detentions of up to two years without charge or trial on the presumption that future acts harmful to the state may be committed.
"The detention of the Bar Association leaders appears to be an attempt to stifle legitimate and peaceful protest, as part of the ongoing crackdown by the authorities in parts of Kashmir," said Sam Zarifi, Asia-Pacific Director at Amnesty International
The grounds of detention prepared by the Srinagar District Magistrate relating to Mian Qayoom allege he is attempting to turn the Bar Association into "a secessionist outfit" indulging in "illegal activities".
Four previous criminal cases registered involving Mian Qayoom between October 2008 and June 2010 are also mentioned in the document which accuses him of instigating recent protests that have reportedly left at least 18 people dead.
"The state administration has resorted to preventive detention under the PSA, which subverts the judicial process," Zarifi said. "If the government has criminal charges to bring, it should do so in a properly constituted criminal trial where Mian Qayoom will have the protections afforded under the law, for instance, the ability to post bail."
The official grounds of detention against Mian Qayoom state that he is being detained for questioning the conduct of government security forces and for his political views.
Reports indicate the General Secretary of the Bar Association, Ghulam Nabi Shaheen, is being detained on similar grounds as well as for organizing public rallies seeking the release of Mian Qayoom.
"The arbitrary use of the PSA to detain government critics is yet another demonstration of why this law must be repealed," Zarifi said.
The Kashmir valley has witnessed mass public protests over the past several months, initially over the extrajudicial executions of three men at Machil, Baramulla district, and subsequently by killings of protesters by Central Reserve Police Force personnel.
At least 18 people, many of them teenagers, were allegedly killed during a crackdown on protests that began on 11 June 2010.
Amnesty International has previously demanded that the Indian authorities avoid excessive use of force and investigate all the deaths due to the shootings.
The State administration has also responded by placing a large number of people in preventive detention instead of charging and trying them – including those reportedly suspected of throwing stones at the police and others suspected of inciting violence by posting inflammatory material online.
A number of political leaders have also been recently detained including Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani, and his aides Mohammad Ashraf Sahrai, Ayaz Akbar, Mohammad Yousuf Mujahid and Zafar Akbar Bhat. Prominent Kashmiri leaders including Shabbir Shah and Nayeem Ahmed Khan also continue to remain in detention under the PSA.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
City commitment against torture and organized violence in Varanasi
http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2010/07/city-commitment-against-torture-and_20.html
http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2010/07/city-commitment-against-torture-and_20.html
http://testimony-india.blogspot.com/2010/07/city-commitment-against-torture-and_20.html
Peoples' Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) and Danish organization Rehabilitation and Research Centre for Torture Victims (RCT) had exclusively hold the high profile honor ceremony of survivor of torture and organized violence on 54 birth anniversary of Veteran Journalist Sri Sushil Tripathi on 18th July, 2010 in Hotel Kamesh Hut, Varanasi.
The program started by paying homage on the photo of pro – survivor veteran Journalist by political leader Mr. Mohan Prakash, Dr. Shailendra Kumar Tripathi, Parikshit and Priyanka, Mayor Mr. Kaushlendra Singh, Acharya Sant. Vivek Das, Vijay Narayen, Dr. S.M Gangulay, Tarun Kanti Basu and many other renowned person of the city and local participation of around 150 people who join the struggle against TOV.
The program proceeds giving brief introduction about him, as he raised the issues related to the down trodden and victims of any category candidly. Expressing their views, the participants recalled the contribution of the late journalist in the field of media and he fought for the cause of poor and victim through pen.
The testimony of the twelve survivors was read to the public and the survivors were honored with the testimony and traditional white shawl. The name of the survivors Ram Ji Gupta, Mrs. Neetu Gupta, Mr. Mahatim, Mr. Vinod Gupta, Mr. Phool Chand, Mr. Harkhali, Mr. Jahid, Mr. Bikhari Sahani, Mr. Lal Chandra Sonker, Mrs. Mamta Singh, Mr. Pankaj Kumar Verma, Mr. Dilip Seth.
After hearing the emotional part of the testimony Bikhari Sahani started crying and the eyes of the people presented in the hall become wet. "I feed my family by pulling trolleys for 18 hours after working day and night. I took a loan of Rs 24,000 to build a shelter for my family to save it from rains. One fine day two officer came along with around 50 cops and bulldozer and without any information razed my house. We could not save our belongings. The incident left my wife in coma and later she died. Now I need justice after all I am a human being. Please do something for my children otherwise they will starve to death."
Ram Ji Gupta became nervous after hearing the soft feeling, on 12 February this year my entire family got to face police torture. Late in the night I opened the door of my house on hearing a knock. A couple of policemen barged into my house and started beating up female of my house with boots and belts. Even they tried to molest my wife and my daughter in law. Then they dragged us to police station and abused us. An ordinary man is not safe in the city. I want CBI and the CB-CID to investigate the matter and ensure justice for my family.
Mahatim felt proud after being honored and fearlessly narrated his self suffering to the media. He reaffirmed his fight against mafia don Munna Bajrangi up to the last battle for the conclusion of the case.
Overall impact of the honor ceremony is in form of survivor's commitment against impunity.
On the occasion the five girls also Chanda, Jyoti, Puja, Vimla and Madhuri -who fought against the child marriage, were awarded with Savitri Bai Phule award. They Prevail and emanate from the traditional culture or male supremacy. As most women in India suffer directly or indirectly by the existing patriarchal structure of the society. Denying the child marriage the parents of these girls faced odd situation in the society.
After the girls are being honored by this award and high profile media publicity, the parents of these girls feel psychological courage and join the movement against the child marriage as organized violence against women. It is noted that it is in result 10 years effort in the area of Baghwanala with the support of Child Right and You (CRY), Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT), Parul Sharma, Raj Dulari Foundation, Helma Ritscher, DIG (Germany) and InWent.
Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi announced "Sushil Tripathi media fellowship" for "Promoting a psycho -legal framework to reduce torture and organized violence in India" of 1 lakhs 20 thousand Rupees each to three including two from Hindi and one from English for two years for 10 story reporting. The media fellowship will be declared on the birth anniversary of great writer Munshi Prem Chandra (Shakespeare of Hindi literature) on 31st July, 2010.
The program was moderated by Sri Ashok Anand and ended with the vote of thanks by Ms. Shruti Nagvanshi.
Please see the link:
http://testimony-india.blogspot.com/2010/07/from-glimpse-of-media-and-photo.html
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/varanasi/Now-girls-say-I-wont-do/articleshow/6181691.cms
http://www.scribd.com/doc/34570436/Scan-0015
http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2010/07/prevention-of-torture-bill-2010.html
http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2010/07/city-commitment-against-torture-and_20.html
http://testimony-india.blogspot.com/2010/07/city-commitment-against-torture-and_20.html
Peoples' Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) and Danish organization Rehabilitation and Research Centre for Torture Victims (RCT) had exclusively hold the high profile honor ceremony of survivor of torture and organized violence on 54 birth anniversary of Veteran Journalist Sri Sushil Tripathi on 18th July, 2010 in Hotel Kamesh Hut, Varanasi.
The program started by paying homage on the photo of pro – survivor veteran Journalist by political leader Mr. Mohan Prakash, Dr. Shailendra Kumar Tripathi, Parikshit and Priyanka, Mayor Mr. Kaushlendra Singh, Acharya Sant. Vivek Das, Vijay Narayen, Dr. S.M Gangulay, Tarun Kanti Basu and many other renowned person of the city and local participation of around 150 people who join the struggle against TOV.
The program proceeds giving brief introduction about him, as he raised the issues related to the down trodden and victims of any category candidly. Expressing their views, the participants recalled the contribution of the late journalist in the field of media and he fought for the cause of poor and victim through pen.
The testimony of the twelve survivors was read to the public and the survivors were honored with the testimony and traditional white shawl. The name of the survivors Ram Ji Gupta, Mrs. Neetu Gupta, Mr. Mahatim, Mr. Vinod Gupta, Mr. Phool Chand, Mr. Harkhali, Mr. Jahid, Mr. Bikhari Sahani, Mr. Lal Chandra Sonker, Mrs. Mamta Singh, Mr. Pankaj Kumar Verma, Mr. Dilip Seth.
After hearing the emotional part of the testimony Bikhari Sahani started crying and the eyes of the people presented in the hall become wet. "I feed my family by pulling trolleys for 18 hours after working day and night. I took a loan of Rs 24,000 to build a shelter for my family to save it from rains. One fine day two officer came along with around 50 cops and bulldozer and without any information razed my house. We could not save our belongings. The incident left my wife in coma and later she died. Now I need justice after all I am a human being. Please do something for my children otherwise they will starve to death."
Ram Ji Gupta became nervous after hearing the soft feeling, on 12 February this year my entire family got to face police torture. Late in the night I opened the door of my house on hearing a knock. A couple of policemen barged into my house and started beating up female of my house with boots and belts. Even they tried to molest my wife and my daughter in law. Then they dragged us to police station and abused us. An ordinary man is not safe in the city. I want CBI and the CB-CID to investigate the matter and ensure justice for my family.
Mahatim felt proud after being honored and fearlessly narrated his self suffering to the media. He reaffirmed his fight against mafia don Munna Bajrangi up to the last battle for the conclusion of the case.
Overall impact of the honor ceremony is in form of survivor's commitment against impunity.
On the occasion the five girls also Chanda, Jyoti, Puja, Vimla and Madhuri -who fought against the child marriage, were awarded with Savitri Bai Phule award. They Prevail and emanate from the traditional culture or male supremacy. As most women in India suffer directly or indirectly by the existing patriarchal structure of the society. Denying the child marriage the parents of these girls faced odd situation in the society.
After the girls are being honored by this award and high profile media publicity, the parents of these girls feel psychological courage and join the movement against the child marriage as organized violence against women. It is noted that it is in result 10 years effort in the area of Baghwanala with the support of Child Right and You (CRY), Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT), Parul Sharma, Raj Dulari Foundation, Helma Ritscher, DIG (Germany) and InWent.
Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi announced "Sushil Tripathi media fellowship" for "Promoting a psycho -legal framework to reduce torture and organized violence in India" of 1 lakhs 20 thousand Rupees each to three including two from Hindi and one from English for two years for 10 story reporting. The media fellowship will be declared on the birth anniversary of great writer Munshi Prem Chandra (Shakespeare of Hindi literature) on 31st July, 2010.
The program was moderated by Sri Ashok Anand and ended with the vote of thanks by Ms. Shruti Nagvanshi.
Please see the link:
http://testimony-india.blogspot.com/2010/07/from-glimpse-of-media-and-photo.html
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/varanasi/Now-girls-say-I-wont-do/articleshow/6181691.cms
http://www.scribd.com/doc/34570436/Scan-0015
http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2010/07/prevention-of-torture-bill-2010.html
Friday, July 9, 2010
Why Kashmir is burning
http://news.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/jul/08/slide-show-1-explained-why-kashmir-is-burning.htm#contentTop
The deaths of 14 teenagers and a youth since June 20 in firing by the Central Reserve Police Force and state police have triggered a cycle of violence in Kashmir. Civilian protests against what is alleged to be excessive use of force by the paramilitary personnel during clashes with stone pelters sustain a vicious cycle during which more casualties occur and violence continues to haunt the state.
There has been widespread violence in Kashmir in the last few days as separatist leaders continue to capitalise on the unrest among the youth in the state. The failure of the peace process between Centre and the separatist leadership, as also between New Delhi and Islamabad, to throw up any concrete solutions to the over six-decade long problem of Kashmir has generated a backlash among the local youth who often target police and paramilitary forces with rocks and stones. The valley has been under curfew for four days now.
The deaths of 14 teenagers and a youth since June 20 in firing by the Central Reserve Police Force and state police have triggered a cycle of violence in Kashmir. Civilian protests against what is alleged to be excessive use of force by the paramilitary personnel during clashes with stone pelters sustain a vicious cycle during which more casualties occur and violence continues to haunt the state.
The first civilian who was killed during this year was Whamiq Farooq, 13, who died on January 31, when protesters clashed with security forces in the Rajouri Kadal area of Srinagar.
The cycle of violence triggered by one civilian death results in protests during which more casualties occur and the ball keeps on rolling.
Roughly, in the last two months, there have been 20 days when markets, educational institutions and banks have remained shut due to a shutdown.
The moderate All Parties Hurriyat Conference has put forth demands that include removal of paramilitary bunkers and troops from all cities and major towns of the valley. They have also demanded the release of the youth arrested during clashes with the security forces and repeal of the controversial Armed Forces' Special Powers Act which gives sweeping powers to the deployed troops in the valley.
The separatists are demanding a political solution that satisfies the aspirations of Kashmiris through tripartite talks between India, Pakistan and the representatives of Kashmiris.
Both the local police and the CRPF act in tandem while dealing with the law and order situation in the valley. The CRPF has been accused of using excessive force since they are in the forefront of crowd control operations. The unprecedented violence that occurs during such protests is often tackled by the CRPF and the local police by firing at the crowd
The chief minister has said the time has come when a political dialogue needs to be started between India and Pakistan and also between New Delhi and various shades of opinion in Kashmir to reach a sustainable solution to the problem. He also said that no amount of economic development and prosperity would ensure peace unless matched with a political initiative.
The chief minister, who heads a coalition comprising his National Conference and the Congress, is fully backed by New Delhi to deal with the situation. The task is definitely not beyond Abdullah as long as he has Delhi's full backing to steer out of the present turmoil.
Omar Abdullah had already starting reaching out to the people through interactions with the civil society in violence-hit areas. He has held such interactions in Srinagar, Baramulla and Anantnag. The government is hopeful that these interactions would instill confidence among the people and help restore order in the Valley.
The deaths of 14 teenagers and a youth since June 20 in firing by the Central Reserve Police Force and state police have triggered a cycle of violence in Kashmir. Civilian protests against what is alleged to be excessive use of force by the paramilitary personnel during clashes with stone pelters sustain a vicious cycle during which more casualties occur and violence continues to haunt the state.
There has been widespread violence in Kashmir in the last few days as separatist leaders continue to capitalise on the unrest among the youth in the state. The failure of the peace process between Centre and the separatist leadership, as also between New Delhi and Islamabad, to throw up any concrete solutions to the over six-decade long problem of Kashmir has generated a backlash among the local youth who often target police and paramilitary forces with rocks and stones. The valley has been under curfew for four days now.
The deaths of 14 teenagers and a youth since June 20 in firing by the Central Reserve Police Force and state police have triggered a cycle of violence in Kashmir. Civilian protests against what is alleged to be excessive use of force by the paramilitary personnel during clashes with stone pelters sustain a vicious cycle during which more casualties occur and violence continues to haunt the state.
The first civilian who was killed during this year was Whamiq Farooq, 13, who died on January 31, when protesters clashed with security forces in the Rajouri Kadal area of Srinagar.
The cycle of violence triggered by one civilian death results in protests during which more casualties occur and the ball keeps on rolling.
Roughly, in the last two months, there have been 20 days when markets, educational institutions and banks have remained shut due to a shutdown.
The moderate All Parties Hurriyat Conference has put forth demands that include removal of paramilitary bunkers and troops from all cities and major towns of the valley. They have also demanded the release of the youth arrested during clashes with the security forces and repeal of the controversial Armed Forces' Special Powers Act which gives sweeping powers to the deployed troops in the valley.
The separatists are demanding a political solution that satisfies the aspirations of Kashmiris through tripartite talks between India, Pakistan and the representatives of Kashmiris.
Both the local police and the CRPF act in tandem while dealing with the law and order situation in the valley. The CRPF has been accused of using excessive force since they are in the forefront of crowd control operations. The unprecedented violence that occurs during such protests is often tackled by the CRPF and the local police by firing at the crowd
The chief minister has said the time has come when a political dialogue needs to be started between India and Pakistan and also between New Delhi and various shades of opinion in Kashmir to reach a sustainable solution to the problem. He also said that no amount of economic development and prosperity would ensure peace unless matched with a political initiative.
The chief minister, who heads a coalition comprising his National Conference and the Congress, is fully backed by New Delhi to deal with the situation. The task is definitely not beyond Abdullah as long as he has Delhi's full backing to steer out of the present turmoil.
Omar Abdullah had already starting reaching out to the people through interactions with the civil society in violence-hit areas. He has held such interactions in Srinagar, Baramulla and Anantnag. The government is hopeful that these interactions would instill confidence among the people and help restore order in the Valley.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
Something really nasty and dangerous is going on in India’s neighbouring island. In May 2009 the bloody civil war between the Tamil Tigers (LTTE) and the Sri Lankan government ended but during those final months of the war it has been reported that massive war crimes were committed by both sides and even today, thousands of Tamil civilians are stuck in camps.
India has taken a very unquestioning line towards the Sri Lankan government. Basically, the Indian government has looked the other way – to the extent that the Sri Lankan President had the gall to brag about how he doesn’t care about international pressure as long as India is happy.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Indias-views-matter-dont-care-about-the-world-Rajapaksa/articleshow/6099633.cms
In the name of fighting terrorism, the Sri Lankan government has killed thousands of innocent Tamils and has closed off the country to foreign journalists and organisations like Amnesty International. Local Sri Lankan journalists have had to flee the country because of a very real threat to their lives and some have even been killed.
http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/info/ASA37/001/2010/en
http://www.amnesty.org/en/news-and-updates/news/journalists-danger-sri-lanka-20080205
Don’t allow the Sri Lankan government to get away with this. Today it is Sri Lanka, tomorrow it could be another country that will start killing innocent civilians in the name of fighting terror.
Certainly watch this chilling Channel 4 video. It has been authenticated by the UN so what you see is the truth.
http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/world/asia_pacific/execution%20video%20is%20this%20evidence%20of%20war%20crimes%20in%20sri%20lanka/3321087
2. Read this excellent International Crisis Group Report and watch the video below
http://www.crisisgroup.org/en/publication-type/multimedia/videos/louise-arbour-sri-lanka.aspx
At the end of your article, please remember to link to the online petition –
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
India has taken a very unquestioning line towards the Sri Lankan government. Basically, the Indian government has looked the other way – to the extent that the Sri Lankan President had the gall to brag about how he doesn’t care about international pressure as long as India is happy.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Indias-views-matter-dont-care-about-the-world-Rajapaksa/articleshow/6099633.cms
In the name of fighting terrorism, the Sri Lankan government has killed thousands of innocent Tamils and has closed off the country to foreign journalists and organisations like Amnesty International. Local Sri Lankan journalists have had to flee the country because of a very real threat to their lives and some have even been killed.
http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/info/ASA37/001/2010/en
http://www.amnesty.org/en/news-and-updates/news/journalists-danger-sri-lanka-20080205
Don’t allow the Sri Lankan government to get away with this. Today it is Sri Lanka, tomorrow it could be another country that will start killing innocent civilians in the name of fighting terror.
Certainly watch this chilling Channel 4 video. It has been authenticated by the UN so what you see is the truth.
http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/world/asia_pacific/execution%20video%20is%20this%20evidence%20of%20war%20crimes%20in%20sri%20lanka/3321087
2. Read this excellent International Crisis Group Report and watch the video below
http://www.crisisgroup.org/en/publication-type/multimedia/videos/louise-arbour-sri-lanka.aspx
At the end of your article, please remember to link to the online petition –
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Plight of the Tamils, Massacre; Government; Censorship
SRI LANKA: Plight of the Tamils,Massacre; Government; Censorship
The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) wishes to forward an appeal
from the Irish Forum for Peace in Sri Lanka regarding the conditions and treatment of Tamil civilians in the north of the country. The government is still barring independent monitoring bodies and press members from entering the territory, making it impossible to verify reports of large scale human rights violations.
For more information, please contact the organization by e-mail, at
irishpeaceforum@gmail.com or take a look at its website:
www.ifpsl.org
1. Send international observers to the 'post-conflict zone'
immediately to determine the truth in the reports from religious
sources on the ground that the Sri Lanka military have shot captured
wounded combatants, LTTE officials, TRO administrators and civilians.
2. Allow immediate access to the ICRC so that they can evacuate the
wounded to hospitals.
3. Allow immediate access to the international media, because if the
conflict is over the excuse that the journalists face danger is
untenable.
4. Allow the civilian population held in internment camps return
immediately to their land assisted by ICRC and UNHCR.
5. Three Sri Lankan doctors who treated hundreds of badly wounded
civilians in understaffed, makeshift hospitals in the country's war
zone are detained by the Sri Lankan military in an undisclosed
location on accusations they gave false information about the
casualties to the media. Free the doctors immediately.
6. We believe that this was a war without any witnesses. Appoint an
international independent jury to investigate the crimes against
humanity that were committed by the Sri Lankan government. Such an
investigation should be carried out with the fullest assurance given
to the witnesses about their safety
7. The Forum believes that the present Sri Lanka military onslaught
has a clear genocidal intent. This intent has underlined the need for
a political settlement that would protect the collective existence of
the Tamils.
8. The principles of self determination and parity of esteem need to
be respected in any future political arrangement.
SUGGESTED ACTION:
Please send an email, fax or sms to the relevant Sri Lankan
authorities with the following demands.
SAMPLE LETTER:
Re: The plight of the Tamils in Sri Lanka
Dear _________,
I am deeply concerned about the the conditions and the treatment of
Tamil civilians in the north of the country by the Sri Lankan
authorities. The government is still barring independent monitoring
bodies and press members from entering the territory, making it
impossible to verify reports of human rights violations on a large
scale. I wish to join the Irish Forum for Peace in Sri Lanka--among
them Prof. Brian Maguire, Dr Jude Lal Fernando, Dr Iain Atack, Dr
Longcharo Naro, Ms Moya Loughnan, Ms Claire De Jong, Ms Jenny
Haughton, Mr John Robinson, Ms Sorcha Tormey
Mr Sean O Boyle, Mr Dominic Thorpe--in calling for the national
government to:
1. Send international observers to the 'post-conflict zone'
immediately to determine the truth in the reports from religious
sources on the ground that the Sri Lanka military have shot captured
wounded combatants, LTTE officials, TRO administrators and civilians.
2. Allow immediate access to the ICRC so that they can evacuate the
wounded to hospitals.
3. Allow immediate access to the international media, because if the
conflict is over the excuse that the journalists face danger is
untenable.
4. Allow the civilian population held in internment camps return
immediately to their land assisted by ICRC and UNHCR.
5. Three Sri Lankan doctors who treated hundreds of badly wounded
civilians in understaffed, makeshift hospitals in the country's war
zone are detained by the Sri Lankan military in an undisclosed
location on accusations they gave false information about the
casualties to the media. Free the doctors immediately.
6. We believe that this was a war without any witnesses. Appoint an
international independent jury to investigate the crimes against
humanity that were committed by the Sri Lankan government. Such an
investigation should be carried out with the fullest assurance given
to the witnesses about their safety
7. The Forum believes that the present Sri Lanka military onslaught
has a clear genocidal intent. This intent has underlined the need for
a political settlement that would protect the collective existence of
the Tamils.
8. The principles of self determination and parity of esteem need to
be respected in any future political arrangement.
Sincerely Yours,
----------------------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE SEND A FAX OR SMS TO:
Professor Rajiva Wijesinha
Secretary
Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights
2, Wijerama Mawatha
Colombo 7
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 268 1982
Secretary
National Human Rights Commission
No. 36, Kynsey Road
Colombo 8
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 2 694 924 / 696 470
E-mail: sechrc@sltnet.lk
Mr. Mohan Peris
Attorney General
Attorney General's Department
Colombo 12
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 2 436421
E-mail: ag@attorneygeneral.gov.lk
Mr. Jayantha Wickremeratne
Inspector General of Police
New Secretariat, Police Head Quarters
Colombo
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 2 440440/327877
E-mail: igp@police.lk
-----------------------
Thank you.
Urgent Appeals Programme
Asian Human Rights Commission (ua@ahrc.asia
)
-----------------------------
Asian Human Rights Commission
19/F, Go-Up Commercial Building,
998 Canton Road, Kowloon, Hongkong S.A.R.
Tel: +(852) - 2698-6339 Fax: +(852) - 2698-6367
The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) wishes to forward an appeal
from the Irish Forum for Peace in Sri Lanka regarding the conditions and treatment of Tamil civilians in the north of the country. The government is still barring independent monitoring bodies and press members from entering the territory, making it impossible to verify reports of large scale human rights violations.
For more information, please contact the organization by e-mail, at
irishpeaceforum@gmail.com or take a look at its website:
www.ifpsl.org
1. Send international observers to the 'post-conflict zone'
immediately to determine the truth in the reports from religious
sources on the ground that the Sri Lanka military have shot captured
wounded combatants, LTTE officials, TRO administrators and civilians.
2. Allow immediate access to the ICRC so that they can evacuate the
wounded to hospitals.
3. Allow immediate access to the international media, because if the
conflict is over the excuse that the journalists face danger is
untenable.
4. Allow the civilian population held in internment camps return
immediately to their land assisted by ICRC and UNHCR.
5. Three Sri Lankan doctors who treated hundreds of badly wounded
civilians in understaffed, makeshift hospitals in the country's war
zone are detained by the Sri Lankan military in an undisclosed
location on accusations they gave false information about the
casualties to the media. Free the doctors immediately.
6. We believe that this was a war without any witnesses. Appoint an
international independent jury to investigate the crimes against
humanity that were committed by the Sri Lankan government. Such an
investigation should be carried out with the fullest assurance given
to the witnesses about their safety
7. The Forum believes that the present Sri Lanka military onslaught
has a clear genocidal intent. This intent has underlined the need for
a political settlement that would protect the collective existence of
the Tamils.
8. The principles of self determination and parity of esteem need to
be respected in any future political arrangement.
SUGGESTED ACTION:
Please send an email, fax or sms to the relevant Sri Lankan
authorities with the following demands.
SAMPLE LETTER:
Re: The plight of the Tamils in Sri Lanka
Dear _________,
I am deeply concerned about the the conditions and the treatment of
Tamil civilians in the north of the country by the Sri Lankan
authorities. The government is still barring independent monitoring
bodies and press members from entering the territory, making it
impossible to verify reports of human rights violations on a large
scale. I wish to join the Irish Forum for Peace in Sri Lanka--among
them Prof. Brian Maguire, Dr Jude Lal Fernando, Dr Iain Atack, Dr
Longcharo Naro, Ms Moya Loughnan, Ms Claire De Jong, Ms Jenny
Haughton, Mr John Robinson, Ms Sorcha Tormey
Mr Sean O Boyle, Mr Dominic Thorpe--in calling for the national
government to:
1. Send international observers to the 'post-conflict zone'
immediately to determine the truth in the reports from religious
sources on the ground that the Sri Lanka military have shot captured
wounded combatants, LTTE officials, TRO administrators and civilians.
2. Allow immediate access to the ICRC so that they can evacuate the
wounded to hospitals.
3. Allow immediate access to the international media, because if the
conflict is over the excuse that the journalists face danger is
untenable.
4. Allow the civilian population held in internment camps return
immediately to their land assisted by ICRC and UNHCR.
5. Three Sri Lankan doctors who treated hundreds of badly wounded
civilians in understaffed, makeshift hospitals in the country's war
zone are detained by the Sri Lankan military in an undisclosed
location on accusations they gave false information about the
casualties to the media. Free the doctors immediately.
6. We believe that this was a war without any witnesses. Appoint an
international independent jury to investigate the crimes against
humanity that were committed by the Sri Lankan government. Such an
investigation should be carried out with the fullest assurance given
to the witnesses about their safety
7. The Forum believes that the present Sri Lanka military onslaught
has a clear genocidal intent. This intent has underlined the need for
a political settlement that would protect the collective existence of
the Tamils.
8. The principles of self determination and parity of esteem need to
be respected in any future political arrangement.
Sincerely Yours,
----------------------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE SEND A FAX OR SMS TO:
Professor Rajiva Wijesinha
Secretary
Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights
2, Wijerama Mawatha
Colombo 7
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 268 1982
Secretary
National Human Rights Commission
No. 36, Kynsey Road
Colombo 8
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 2 694 924 / 696 470
E-mail: sechrc@sltnet.lk
Mr. Mohan Peris
Attorney General
Attorney General's Department
Colombo 12
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 2 436421
E-mail: ag@attorneygeneral.gov.lk
Mr. Jayantha Wickremeratne
Inspector General of Police
New Secretariat, Police Head Quarters
Colombo
SRI LANKA
Fax: +94 11 2 440440/327877
E-mail: igp@police.lk
-----------------------
Thank you.
Urgent Appeals Programme
Asian Human Rights Commission (ua@ahrc.asia
)
-----------------------------
Asian Human Rights Commission
19/F, Go-Up Commercial Building,
998 Canton Road, Kowloon, Hongkong S.A.R.
Tel: +(852) - 2698-6339 Fax: +(852) - 2698-6367
Friday, July 2, 2010
Escaping the “child-catchers” of the LTTE
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
Title: Escaping the “child-catchers” of the LTTE
Amnesty International is calling on the UN to set up an independent investigation into possible war crimes committed in Sri Lanka in the final months of the civil war which ended in May 2009. Both sides, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the Sri Lankan government’s armed forces committed human rights violations. The families who suffered deserve justice and if you want to know why, read young Kamla’s account of how she escaped capture.
Child-catchers of the LTTE
The bullets and bombs were scary but what struck terror in Kamla’s heart were the “child-catchers” of the LTTE. For months, Kamla (nearly 15) and her 2 younger sisters managed to escape them by hiding in barrels buried underground in the backyard. The lid would be closed and soil sprinkled on top, with only a small tube fitted for breathing.
However, during the final months of the war, shelling became so bad that the family were displaced 14 times and ended up in a hut without any of their possessions.
Caught in the cross-fire
One morning, when Kamla came out of the hut she found the place surrounded by more than 20 child-catchers. She ran in terror, ducking and hiding behind huts and somehow managed to escape. That night, her family decided they couldn’t continue like this anymore. Along with 150 other Tamils, they began moving towards the Sri Lankan army controlled areas, risking one final confrontation with the LTTE. “Tigers fired wildly. Parents fought against Tigers and some were dragged away,” recalls Kamla. But after a night of battle, the Sri Lankan army saved them and sent them to the Vavuniya camp.
Take Action
A year after this escape, Kamla drew the picture above (she is in yellow, surrounded by “child-catchers” in black) to show what disturbed her the most. Help Kamla and her family discover the truth by calling for an independent investigation. Your signatures will be presented to UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon at a high level meeting in September during the UN General Assembly.
Please click on the link below to help Kamla.
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
Escaping the “child-catchers” of the LTTE
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
Title: Escaping the “child-catchers” of the LTTE
Amnesty International is calling on the UN to set up an independent investigation into possible war crimes committed in Sri Lanka in the final months of the civil war which ended in May 2009. Both sides, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the Sri Lankan government’s armed forces committed human rights violations. The families who suffered deserve justice and if you want to know why, read young Kamla’s account of how she escaped capture.
Child-catchers of the LTTE
The bullets and bombs were scary but what struck terror in Kamla’s heart were the “child-catchers” of the LTTE. For months, Kamla (nearly 15) and her 2 younger sisters managed to escape them by hiding in barrels buried underground in the backyard. The lid would be closed and soil sprinkled on top, with only a small tube fitted for breathing.
However, during the final months of the war, shelling became so bad that the family were displaced 14 times and ended up in a hut without any of their possessions.
Caught in the cross-fire
One morning, when Kamla came out of the hut she found the place surrounded by more than 20 child-catchers. She ran in terror, ducking and hiding behind huts and somehow managed to escape. That night, her family decided they couldn’t continue like this anymore. Along with 150 other Tamils, they began moving towards the Sri Lankan army controlled areas, risking one final confrontation with the LTTE. “Tigers fired wildly. Parents fought against Tigers and some were dragged away,” recalls Kamla. But after a night of battle, the Sri Lankan army saved them and sent them to the Vavuniya camp.
Take Action
A year after this escape, Kamla drew the picture above (she is in yellow, surrounded by “child-catchers” in black) to show what disturbed her the most. Help Kamla and her family discover the truth by calling for an independent investigation. Your signatures will be presented to UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon at a high level meeting in September during the UN General Assembly.
Please click on the link below to help Kamla.
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
Title: Escaping the “child-catchers” of the LTTE
Amnesty International is calling on the UN to set up an independent investigation into possible war crimes committed in Sri Lanka in the final months of the civil war which ended in May 2009. Both sides, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the Sri Lankan government’s armed forces committed human rights violations. The families who suffered deserve justice and if you want to know why, read young Kamla’s account of how she escaped capture.
Child-catchers of the LTTE
The bullets and bombs were scary but what struck terror in Kamla’s heart were the “child-catchers” of the LTTE. For months, Kamla (nearly 15) and her 2 younger sisters managed to escape them by hiding in barrels buried underground in the backyard. The lid would be closed and soil sprinkled on top, with only a small tube fitted for breathing.
However, during the final months of the war, shelling became so bad that the family were displaced 14 times and ended up in a hut without any of their possessions.
Caught in the cross-fire
One morning, when Kamla came out of the hut she found the place surrounded by more than 20 child-catchers. She ran in terror, ducking and hiding behind huts and somehow managed to escape. That night, her family decided they couldn’t continue like this anymore. Along with 150 other Tamils, they began moving towards the Sri Lankan army controlled areas, risking one final confrontation with the LTTE. “Tigers fired wildly. Parents fought against Tigers and some were dragged away,” recalls Kamla. But after a night of battle, the Sri Lankan army saved them and sent them to the Vavuniya camp.
Take Action
A year after this escape, Kamla drew the picture above (she is in yellow, surrounded by “child-catchers” in black) to show what disturbed her the most. Help Kamla and her family discover the truth by calling for an independent investigation. Your signatures will be presented to UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon at a high level meeting in September during the UN General Assembly.
Please click on the link below to help Kamla.
http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/call-un-investigate-sri-lanka-rights-violations
Over 100,000 innovations from rural Indian school dropouts!
http://business.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/jul/01/slide-show-1-rural-india-hotbed-of-amazing-innovations.htm#contentTop
A cycle that runs on water and land, a scooter-powered flour mill, a solar mosquito killer, a cycle-powered washing machine -- these are just a few of the over 100,000 outstanding innovations that have come from school dropouts and poor people from rural India.
How has your experience been working with rural innovators?
Working with innovators has been one of the most exciting things in my life. The rural innovators have the spirit to innovate and come up with solutions overcoming their problems.
Despite the lack of education, power and money, the grassroots innovations exemplify the struggle to find a better and cheaper solution to address our problems.
There is a lot to learn from their lives and achievements. It has been an enriching and enlightening experience. These tribals are the true pride of India.
They have so many great innovations. I found the villages in Bastar district to be one of the best in hygiene and sanitation. Here, a sick person is cremated after his death, while a healthy person who dies is buried. This is a good, healthy practice. Here is a lesson for all of us to follow.
The youth do not want to join Maoists, they are so talented that we should be able to guide them in the right direction. Unfortunately, the police and administration are indifferent to them. They are given no opportunity to exhibit their skills.
We are now initiating a programme to bring out their talent and make them leaders in their own right.
The government is not investing in places like this, there are not given any opportunity to come up in life. So their anger is not misplaced.
They have developed a medicinal variety of paddy. If we add such products to out nutraceuticals market, this will have such a huge impact. This agro-bio diversity should be catalogued and marketed. I have talks with the National Gene Bank but nothing has happened yet.
There are so many ideas that can drive the Indian economy. Our institutes should pay more attention in developing products that have mass appeal.
A cycle that runs on water and land, a scooter-powered flour mill, a solar mosquito killer, a cycle-powered washing machine -- these are just a few of the over 100,000 outstanding innovations that have come from school dropouts and poor people from rural India.
How has your experience been working with rural innovators?
Working with innovators has been one of the most exciting things in my life. The rural innovators have the spirit to innovate and come up with solutions overcoming their problems.
Despite the lack of education, power and money, the grassroots innovations exemplify the struggle to find a better and cheaper solution to address our problems.
There is a lot to learn from their lives and achievements. It has been an enriching and enlightening experience. These tribals are the true pride of India.
They have so many great innovations. I found the villages in Bastar district to be one of the best in hygiene and sanitation. Here, a sick person is cremated after his death, while a healthy person who dies is buried. This is a good, healthy practice. Here is a lesson for all of us to follow.
The youth do not want to join Maoists, they are so talented that we should be able to guide them in the right direction. Unfortunately, the police and administration are indifferent to them. They are given no opportunity to exhibit their skills.
We are now initiating a programme to bring out their talent and make them leaders in their own right.
The government is not investing in places like this, there are not given any opportunity to come up in life. So their anger is not misplaced.
They have developed a medicinal variety of paddy. If we add such products to out nutraceuticals market, this will have such a huge impact. This agro-bio diversity should be catalogued and marketed. I have talks with the National Gene Bank but nothing has happened yet.
There are so many ideas that can drive the Indian economy. Our institutes should pay more attention in developing products that have mass appeal.
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