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Chandigarh January 16: As many as 1080 candidates remain in the field for the Punjab Assembly Elections 2012 after the withdrawal of nominations by candidates.

A Spokesperson of the CEO Punjab said that nominations of 1259 candidates were found valid after the scrutiny on January 13, out of which 173 candidates have withdrawn their nomination papers today.
Meanwhile, 2 crore ml illicit liquor from Ferozepur and 20 Lac ml from Fazilka have been seized.

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Law has finally started catching up with Sukhbir, Saini: Capt Amarinder

CHANDIGARH, January 16: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today welcomed the inquiry against the Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal and vigilance chief Sumedh Singh Saini, ordered by a court, following a complaint by senior IAS officer Mr VK Janjua that he (Sukhbir) used vigilance bureau to fabricate false cases against him after he refused to pay Rs one crore to Sukhbir as allegedly demanded by him.

Capt Amarinder said, it was good that law has finally started catching up with both Sukhbir Badal and Sumedh Saini who will have to answer for their actions of victimizing and intimidating people, mostly their political opponents, during the last five years. "Good that we did not need to do it after coming to power, they have met their nemesis earlier than expected", he remarked.
The PCC President said, the complaint by such a senior officer had only vindicated his party’s stand that Sukhbir Badal had used the vigilance bureau to settle scores with his opponents and those who failed to submit to his demands. He said, it was so shameful and unfortunate that Sukhbir used vigilance bureau against his own officers to arm-twist them.

Condemning the Deputy Chief Minister for such criminal intimidation of the officers, he pointed out, if that was the fate of such a senior and influential IAS officer anybody can well imagine what must have happened with the common man, particularly the Congress workers who were hounded by the vigilance bureau all these years at the behest of the Akalis led by Sukhbir.  

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CHANDIGARH, JANUARY16: The ECI has issued fresh guidelines regarding the Standard Operating System (SOP) for Flying Squad and Surveillance teams.

Disclosing this here today Special Chief Electoral Officer Punjab Mrs Usha R Sharma said that Under new guidelines, If a person is carrying cash from the business place to the bank, for the purpose of depositing it in the bank, and submits the documents like PAN Card/Business Registration Certificate and bank passbook/statement and copy of the cash book to show regular cash deposits, then no seizure shall be effected, irrespective of the amount. However, concerned person would have to submit a declaration to the surveillance teams or Flying squad including Name and address, photocopy of identity proof ,amount of cash and its source. She said that the Flying teams would obtain the copies of the above documents from the person before release of the cash. 

She made it clear that the concerned person shall submit a copy of the Bank deposit slip to the SST concerned, after depositing the amount in the bank.
                   She said that any person carrying cash for purpose of medical treatment would not be seized, if he provided declaration along with  the proof of medical admission/medical treatment.

Besides that any cash being carried for marriage purpose shall not be seized, if concerned person produces a declaration with documents like marriage invitation/Kalyan Mandap booking/any other document to prove the marriage celebration.
She said that In case of seizure by the SST or Income Tax deptt., the Appellate Authority whom the person can appeal for redressal of grievance would be the SDM/ADM of the district (in charge of the Expenditure Monitoring Cell) and  the Joint Director of Income Tax (Inv) (in charge of the district) respectively.  She said that The name and address of Appellate Authority would be mentioned in the seizure list.
Talking about the violation of Model code of conduct ,She said that CEO has sought report from the R.Os of kartarpur regarding the use of loudspeaker without permission in election compaign by the INC candidate Jagjit Singh. Meanwhile , The CEO has received 1650 complaints regarding the violation of model code of conduct, out of which 730 has been disposed of. She said that Unaccounted cash worth Rs 23,07,40,975 has been seized by the Static Surveillance teams and 1,80,338 Licenced arms have been deposited. She further said that 8103 non bailable warrants have been executed and 4148  persons were bound down under section 107/116 of IPC. 
She said that Mr Shamsher singh Electronic Instructor, Industrial Traning Center Rajpura  has been tranfered  to Industrial Traning Centre Bassi Pathana.
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ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB-- use of aircrafts/ helicopters, during election campaign

Chandigarh January 15:

The Election Commission of India has issued guidelines on the use of aircrafts/ helicopters, during election campaign. According to a Spokesperson of the CEO Punjab said that if the candidate or the worker of the party /candidate also travel in the helicopter/ aircraft of the star campaigners then 50% of the expenditure on the vehicle would be booked to the account of the election expenses of the concerned candidate.
          Clarifying further, he said that if any attendant including security guard, medical attendant of the star campaigner travel with him/her and does not play any role in the elections, then that expense incurred would not be added to the account of the candidate. Adding further, he said that if the representative of the electronic or print media accompanied the star campaigner then 50% expenditure of their travel would be borne by the candidate.

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OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB- distribution of peanuts and sweets a,,,

Chandigarh January 15: On the directions of ECI, the expense incurred on the distribution of peanuts and sweets after a rally of SAD candidate Darbara Singh Guru at village Dhilwan in district Barnala has been added in the candidate’s expenses.

Disclosing this here today, Mrs. Usha. R. Sharma, Special Chief Electoral Officer Punjab said that the SHOs of Bholath, Begowal in Kapurthala, GuruHarsahai in Ferozepur, Chattiwind in Amritsar have also been transferred. Besides that BDPOs of Chamkaur Sahib, Rajpura and DEO Nawansahar, Mr. Amrik Singh have also been shifted. Mr Swaran singh Additional SE city Division, Kapurthala also been transfered.

Meanwhile, the time slots to campaign on Doordarshan and AIR has been given to the Recognized political parties through a draw of lots.

Unaccounted cash worth Rs. 21,00,82,205 was found and referred to Income Tax department and 3734732 ml Illicit liquor was also seized. 

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Khangura: “Shame on Ayali for Conning Aam Admi With Fake Election Commission Observers”

Jassi Khangura, Congress candidate for Halqa Dakha today slammed Manpreet Ayali for cheating the very same aam admi he claims to stand for.  Khangura said Ayali sent men posing as election commission observers to Congress supporters’ homes in Swaddi Kalan and Talwandi Kalan last night.

Khangura said “It’s absolutely shocking that Ayali would send people posing as Election Commission officials to the houses of Congress supporters.  Not only is he showing he doesn’t respect the Commission’s authority or the Model Code of Conduct, but he’s cheating people.”

Khangura filed a complaint with the Election Commission late last night after receiving reports from Talwandi Kalan and Swaddi Kalan that men posing as Election Observers removed Congress flags from peoples’ homes, telling the owners they were not allowed to display them.

Khangura said “Manpreet Ayali has deceived the very people he says he works for.  Shame on him for resorting to such low tactics.  Shame on him for taking advantage of these good people.”

Referring to Ayali’s tactics as “very low”, Khangura said “As soon as these reports came in, we immediately checked with the Election Commission. They assured us that it was certainly not their team who were doing this.  I hope those who did this are prosecuted for impersonating an official.”
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CAPTAIN SHOULD STOP DAY DREAMING-SUKHBIR

·        BKU would turn every stone to wash out Congress from Punjab-Lakhowal

Jalalabad, January 15

Shiromani Akali Dal President Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today advised Capt Amrinder Singh to stop day dreaming of becoming a future CM Punjab as his ‘ship’ Congress is sinking and he and his party leaders were helpless to counter development agenda of SAD-BJP alliance.
Addressing impressive gatherings in the villages Dhippa Wala, Jhuggian Kehar Singh, Mulian Wala, Banna Wala, Paka, Jand Wala Bheme Shah, Jhotian Wali, Shah Pura, Dhani Chirag, Noorpura, Mahuana, Bega Wali, Sajrana, Kamal Wala, Mammu Khera, Khatawan, Kuharian Wali, Dhani Jhalara, Murad Wala and Ghuriana, Akali President said Congress government led by Captain Amrinder Singh had wrecked the education and health sectors in the state. He said that SAD-BJP government inherited schools without teachers and infrastructure and hospitals without doctors. “People of Punjab may recall that the Congress government used to talk of encouraging privatisation in these basic sectors. It used to be said that people prefer private schools to government schools. We have reversed that situation”, he added. Mr. Badal said that SAD-BJP government had not facilitated private investment at the cost of public sector but tried to carry both the sectors along. He said that SAD-BJP government had recruited doctors for dispensaries and teachers for schools. “Our Adarsh school scheme has been emulated by the government at the Centre also. This would not have been possible had there been no vision and initiative”, he added.
Describing the Assembly elections as fight between pro-Punjab and anti-Punjab forces, Mr. Badal reminded the people of Punjab how previous Congress government had got the work on the Bathinda Oil Refinery stopped to favour its friends for five years, put brakes on the most prestigious project of the Khalsa Panth, the Virasat-e-Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib. He said that now Punjab Congress chief is threatening that if elected, he will stop the thermal plants and the Kabbadi World Cup. “But the good thing is that he is never going to be in a position to destroy Punjab again as people of Punjab are well aware of development initiatives of SAD-BJP government and would not give him another chance”, he added.
Meanwhile, Mr. Ajmer Singh Lakhowal, President Bhartiya Kisan Union said that Union would not leave any stone unturned to completely wash out Congress party in the Punjab assembly elections so that the way to say it good bye from Centre would be paved. He said that the Union is not a political front but it decided to support the SAD-BJP alliance because of its pro-farmers policies. He said that the Congress party at centre deceived all the promises it had made to address the farmers’ grievances. Mr. Lakhowal appealed to his Union members and people of Fazilka district to work for victory of all the four candidates of SAD-BJP alliance.
          During today’s campaign hundreds of families left Congress party to ensure record victory of Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal. Prominent amongst others Mr. Sher Singh Ghubaya, Member Parliament, Mr. Surjit Kumar Jyaani, SAD-BJP Candidate from Fazilka, Mr. Gurtej Singh Ghuriana, SAD-BJP candidate from Baluana and Mr. Parduman Singh, district President BKU were also present on the occasion.

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SUKHBIR CONDOLES THE DEATH OF JOURNALIST PREM VERMA

Chandigarh, January15:  The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has condoled the untimely demise of senior journalist Mr. Prem Verma,   who died after a massive heart attack here today.
In a condolence message Mr.Badal said that with the death of Mr. Prem Verma, the Hindi journalism suffered a big jolt as he made a significant contribution in the promotion of Hindi journalism in the region. He further said that Mr. Verma always believed in bringing a change in society through journalism and a void created by his death was difficult to be filled.
Mr. Badal expressed heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed to God to give peace to the departed soul and strength to them, to bear this irreparable loss.
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Capt Amarinder promises one rank, one pension to ex-servicemen

MEHALKALAN, January 15:

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today promised to the ex-servicemen that he will ensure that the one rank one pension scheme was introduced. He said, he had already taken up the matter with the government of India and hoped it will be implemented soon.

Addressing an impressive function organized by the Punjab Chapter of the Indian Ex-Service League to mark the Army Day celebrations here today, he regretted that some bureaucrats sitting in Delhi who had no idea as what it meant to be a soldier were trying to put hurdles in the implementation.

He appealed to the ex-servicemen to help and support the Congress in the forthcoming assembly elections in Punjab.

He said, ex-servicemen are pride of Punjab but unfortunately they have not received their due after retirement or leaving the services of the armed forces. An important step in this direction has already been taken with the Rajya Sabha Committee on Petitions having recommended one rank one pension scheme, he said, while adding, Congress was committed that the rights of ex-servicemen are protected.

He said, the party will pursue with the Central Government to 100% implementation of One Rank One Pension scheme which will benefit 8 lakh ex-servicemen of Punjab.

He said, Congress will engage the Central Government to extend the benefits such as Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), gratuity etc. to the non pensioners.

Among other things he promised, the Congress government will ensure, that the  Ex servicemen would be exempted from paying toll-tax on the State     highways to be constructed on Public Private Partnerships basis, every effort shall be made to remove anomalies of 6th Pay Commission for Defence Personnel,   VAT on all CSD items will be exempted, fnancial grant for the marriage of the daughters of Ex Servicemen widows will be enhanced, funds will be released for creation of Ex Servicemen institutes alongwith Zila Sainik Welfare Centres, all Ex Servicemen affairs will be directly under CM, all Ex Servicemen and Defence Personnel will be attended to on priority  by all State Govt officials,   Ex Servicemen will be incorporated in Youth, sports, anti-drug programmes and skill development centres., all cases of widow pensions, disability pension will be regularised and revised,   Special drive will be made to ensure that widows and old pensioners receive their full entitlements and skills of Ex Servicemen will be utilised for environment protection, disaster relief and trauma response teams especially along National/ State Highways. Besides, the government will ensure that all vacancies reserved for Ex Servicemen are fully utilizes

Prominent among those present on the occasion included Gen GG Dewedi, Chairman Ex-Serviceman Cell, Punjab, Gen TS Shergil, Air Marshal Basra, Capt Bhatti, Caprt Gurjit Laly Jawandha and others.

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Capt Amarinder warns rebels to withdraw; lest they face expulsion

CHANDIGARH, January 15: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today warned all the rebels to withdraw from the contest by tomorrow lest they be expelled from the party for at least five years.

In a statement issued here today, Capt Amarinder said, the party President Ms Sonia Gandhi was clear on the issue that indiscipline cannot be tolerated at any cost. He said, once the rebels are expelled for five years they will not be allowed to return for five years. “Ms Gandhi has made it clear that five years means five years”, he clarified.

The PCC President maintained that even if somebody wants to return after five years he or she will need to have a cooling period of further five years which means anybody expelled today cannot expect to return to party before five years and cannot get any party post for another five years.

Asking the rebels to withdraw lest it be too late, he pointed out, the Congress was coming to power and it will be unwise on part of the rebels to remain out of power as they have suffered the harassment and vendetta of the Akalis for last five years.

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Capt Amarinder appeals un-nominated candidates to withdraw in favour of party

CHANDIGARH, January 14: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today appealed to all the party leaders who have filed their nomination papers against the official party candidates to withdraw in the interest of the party.
Capt Amarinder told all such candidates that he understood their situation since it is everybody’s aim to be part of a Congress government. However, he pointed out, given the fact that there are just 117 assembly segments against about 1500 applicants it was obvious that several deserving candidates were left out.
The PCC President said, the party was well aware and equally concerned about such leaders who have given their everything to the party and stood with it against all odds, particularly during the last five years when they had to face the vendetta and onslaught of the Akali-BJP government.
He pointed out, the rebel candidates can only harm the interest of the party. “We all have suffered during these five years and now is the time to ensure that Congress comes to power and all those guilty of targeting and victimising our people are brought to justice”, he said.
Capt Amarinder said, it is the duty of all the party-men to work together and ensure the Congress victory in these elections in the interest of the party, party-men and Punjab as a whole.
The PCC President said, if they do not withdraw the party will have to take disciplinary action against all of them and they will not be the part of the government and there will be no possibility of their joining back even if they want.

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THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB

CHANDIGARH January 14: As many as 1253 candidates remain in the fray for Punjab Assembly Elections 2012 after the scrutiny of nomination papers.
          A spokesperson of the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab said that the office had received 2054 nomination, out of which 801 have been rejected for various reasons. He said that Jalalabad constituency has the maximum 23 candidates and Attari constituency has recorded the minimum of four candidates in the fray. He further said that candidates could withdraw their nominations by January 16.    

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Chandigarh January 14:  The Chief Electoral officer Punjab, Ms .Kusumjit
Sidhu has called a meeting of the representatives of recognized Political
Parties along with the officers of Doordarshan Kendra and All India Radio
for allotting the time slots to the political parties on the electronic
media.

         Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the CEO said that
the meeting would be held in the office of the Chief Electoral Officer
–SCO-29/30 , Sector 17-E Chandigarh at 3 pm on January 15, 2012.

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17 Akali sarpanchs, 7 ex-sarpanchs from Gurdaspur join Congress

CHANDIGARH, January 14: Seventeen sarpanchs and seven ex-sarpanchs from Gurdaspur today joined the Congress after resigning from the Akali Dal. They were inducted into the party by the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh in presence of PCC general secretary Fateh Jang Singh Bajwa. Besides, Balwinder Singh Nabha, Chairman Central Cooperative Bank Gurdaspur also joined the Congress.
Welcoming them into the party, Capt Amarinder said, it was a positive sign that more and more people were getting inclined towards Congress as people had lost trust and faith in the Akalis.
Besides about a hundred active members of the Akali Dal who included MC members, panchs and sarpanchs also joined the party today. They said, they were convinced that only the Congress under the dynamic leadership of Capt Amarinder Singh can steer the state to progress and development.
Among those who joined the Congress today included:  

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OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB

....Mrs. Usha. R.Sharma

Chandigarh January 13:

To ensure enhanced participation of women electors on Poll day, special arrangements have been made to facilitate them to cast their votes conveniently. The ECI has issued directions, keeping in view that women electors coming to vote at the Polling Stations have to attend many household chores so two women voters may be allowed entry into the Polling Station for entry of one male voter. There would be women Polling Officers to identify the Muslim women electors in “Burqa”. In place where two polling stations are set-up in the same building the ECI has no objection in allotting one of them for men and the other for women.

Stating this here today, Mrs. Usha. R.Sharma said that the ECI has already issued guidelines to take special care of the aged, pregnant women, physically challenged and young mother with small child in lap to provide adequate facilities to cast their vote comfortably.

She said that in response to a complaint regarding distributing money to people by Mr. Gurpreet Singh Malluka, the CEO has received the enquiry report which stated that there was no substance in the complaint but two separate  FIRs have been registered regarding the altercation amongst the workers of SAD and INC in Dayalpura Police Station at Rampura Phul.

As many as 125 observers have already been arrived in Punjab. Giving details, she said 55 general observers, 43 expenditure observers and 27 police observers have reached at different areas in Punjab for the coming elections to the Punjab Vidhan Sabha. The commission has received 1350 complaints of violation of model code of conduct from across the state, out of which 660 complaints have been disposed off.

Giving consolidated report about the seizures , Mr. Sharma said that cash worth Rs. 20,13,42,665 have been found and cash worth Rs. 18,84,82,010 was referred to the Income Tax Department. Unaccounted cash worth Rs. 65, 60,000 was seized from Fatehgarh Sahib this evening. As many as 174063 Licensed Arms have been deposited and 47 unlicensed arms and 159 ammunition have been seized..

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Bhai Harnirpal Singh Kukku joins Congress

MUKTSAR, January 13:

In a major development that will have significant impact and improve the Congress prospects in Malwa region, former MLA and senior Akali leader Bhai Harnirpal Singh Kukku and another prominent Akali leader Jabar Jang Singh Brar today joined the Congress. They were welcomed into the party fold by the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh here today.

Talking to reporters Bhai Kukku, a former MLA from Muktsar, said that a situation had been created whereby it was difficult to stay in the Akali Dal. He said, he believed that the Congress was the better and the right choice as it was the only party that could retrieve Punjab from the situation it was in right now.
Welcoming Bhai Kukku and Mr Brar into the party fold, Capt Amarinder said, it was a positive and powerful indication that people were inclined towards the Congress and the party was certain to sweep the coming elections. He said, with the joining of two senior Akali leaders today, the party’s performance will certainly improve in the Malwa region.
He pointed out, the very fact that senior and prominent leaders like Bhai Kukku were leaving the party should be enough indication for the Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal and his son Mr Sukhbir Badal that their final countdown had started and their days in power were numbered. He said, since the party had no agenda for the state it was natural for the senior and sincere leaders to look for other options to save Punjab.
Asked whether some more people were expected to join the party, Capt Amarinder remarked, “wait and watch and everything will be in front of you in due course of time”. He said, some more senior leaders from both BJP as were in direct contact with the party and they will be inducted in the coming days.
The former Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the Election Commission of India in ensuring free and fair polls and bringing the guilty officials to the book. He welcomed the removal of Ludhiana SSP (Vigilance) SS Mand to Uttrakhand and said this should convey a message to those who were trying to succumb to the Akalis’ pressure.
He said, he had seen the EC officials and police personnel searching the vehicles. He said, this will set a very good precedent as also prevent the misuse of money power.
The PCC President said, most of the rebels from the Congress had withdrawn and joined the party campaign and the remaining few will come around soon. He said, he was in constant touch with all of them and by the last date of the withdrawal of the nominations there will be no rebel from the Congress in the fray.
Prominent among those present on the occasion included senior party leader Avtar Brar, Ms Karan Brar, Ripjit Brar, Nathu Ram, Raja Warring, Kushaldeep Kikki Dhillon and others.

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SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL DISMISSES M.S. HUSSAINPUR, GURWINDER BHATTI  AND OTHERS FROM PARTY

Chandigarh, January 13 : Shiromani Akali Dal President and Deputy Chief Minister Mr.  Sukhbir Singh Badal has dismissed district President of the party from Nawanshehr unit Mr. Mohinder Singh Hussainpur and Harprabhmehal Singh for their anti party activities. Mr. Hussainpur is contesting as an independent againt the party nominee from Nawanshehr seat.
          In a statement issued from party head office here today party Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that Mr. Badal has also dismissed Mr. Gurwinder Singh Bhatti youth wing leader from Fatehgarh Sahib and Mr. Sharanjit Singh Rajwara from the same district.
          Mr. Badal has told the party cadre to maintain discipline and collectively work for the victory of the party candidates from their respective seats. He said that party would not tolerate any act of indiscipline against the party and the candidates of the party in the present elections and anyone found guilty on this count would be strictly dealt with.

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Sehajdharis withdraw candidates in favour of Congress

CHANDIGARH, January 12: The Sehajdhari Sikh Party today announced to withdraw all the 21 candidates it had fielded for the coming assembly elections in Punjab in favour of Congress. This was announced by the president of the party Dr Paramjit Singh Rano at a press conference here today in presence of the President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee Capt Amarinder Singh.
He said, the Sehajdhari Sikhs had been betrayed and let down by the Akalis who had promised to co-opt one of them to the SGPC. He said, instead the Akalis denied the voting rights to the Sehajdharis thus dividing the Sikh community. He said, this was a dangerous precedent and can have alarming ramifications and it must be stopped.
Speaking on the occasion, Capt Amarinder welcomed the High Court Decision scraping the government of India notification that had barred the Sehajdharis from their SGPC voting rights. He said, Congress has always supported their right to vote and it was for this reason they had reciprocated their support to the party.

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Congress to continue with free power to agricultural sector

SAMANA (PATIALA), January 12: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today said that the Congress after coming to power will continue the supply of free power to the farmers. He pointed out, it was the Congress which had started free power to farmers and there was no question of it being withdrawn.
Talking to reporters outside the Tehsil office here where he accompanied his son Mr Raninder Singh Tiku to file his nomination papers from Samana assembly segment, Capt Amarinder criticized the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal for telling lies and saying that the Congress was going to withdraw power subsidy to the farmers.
 “This is a clear lie aimed at creating confusion among the farming community”, Capt Amarinder clarified while justifying the subsidies to the agriculture sector as the input costs have substantially increased and the farmers were not able to get remunerative price for their yield.
The PCC President confirmed that the party had complained to the Election Commission about the transportation of money by the Akalis using some officers of the vigilance bureau. He said, he was satisfied with the measures taken by the commission and he welcomed the thorough checking and frisking of the people involved.
Replying to a question on the rebel candidates, Capt Amarinder said, most of them had withdrawn and only a few were left. He said, he had promised them that once party comes to power all the deserving leaders will be suitably accommodated. He made it clear that winnablity was the only criterion Congress had adopted for allotting the party tickets.
Earlier Mr Raninder Singh Tiku filed his nomination papers in presence of Capt Amarinder Singh, his mother and Minister of State for External Affairs Ms Perneet Kaur, wife Ms Rishma Kaur, sister Ms Jai Inder Kaur, daughter Sehar Inder Kaur and Sangrur MP Vijay Inder Singla.

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NOMINATIONS TODAY 734 MINUS TARN TARN AND LUDHIANA, (ALONG WITH COVERING CANDIDATES)

Chandigarh January 12: As many as 734 nominations have been filed today for the elections to the 117 assembly constituencies of Punjab.
Final report from Tarntarn and Ludhiana could not be received until the filing of this report.
According to a spokesperson, of the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, total number of nomination papers filed until date is 1714 Total 980 nominations had been filed earlier.
                   District wise nominations: Fatehgarh sahib-20, Mansa-23, Moga-26, Gurdaspur-29, Ferozepur-30, Ludhiana---- Patiala-56, Jalandhar-54, Bathinda-43, Amritsar-88, Mohali-22, Muktsar-65-, Nawan Shahr-13, Fazilka-36, Tarn Tarn-----, Sagrur-55, Kapurthala-16, Pathankot-24, Barnala-24, Faridkot-52, Ropar 16 and Hoshiarpur -42.
            Prominent filed today : Sewa Singh Sekhwan SAD-Kadian, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa INC-Dera Baba Nanak, Tarlochan Singh Sund INC-Banga, Rajwinder Lucky INC-Balachaur, Amardeep Singh PPP-Ropar, Balwant Singh Ramuwalia SAD Mohali, Birdevinder Singh -PPP Mohali  Simarnjit Singh Mann SAD(A)Fatehgarh Sahib, Kaka Sukhjit Singh Lohgarh INC-Dharamkot, Ravi Inder Singh Bubble-Ind. Ferozepur, Naresh Kataria INC-Zira, Sarup Chand Singla SAD-Bathinda Urban, Prem Mittal SAD-Mansa, Ajit Inder Singh Mofar INC-Sardulgarh, Parminder Singh Dhindsa SAD- Sunam, Raninder Singh INC-Samana, O.P.Soni INC-Amritsar Central, Amarpal Singh Boni SAD-Ajnala, Lali Majithia Ind. Majitha, Simarpreet Kaur Bhatia Ind. Amritsar East, Ram Lubhaya INC- Shamchurasi, R.C.Dogra INC-Dasuya, Mantar Brar SAD-Kotkapura, Pargat Singh SAD-Jalandhar Cantt.
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Static Surveillance teams have seized unaccounted money worth Rs. 18,84,82,010

Chandigarh January 12: 

 The ECI today issued notice to eight newspapers for publishing advertisments of various political parties without mentioning the advt. at the bottom or name of Party that has got those advts. published.

Disclosing this here today , Mrs. Usha Sharma, Special Chief Electoral Officer Punjab said that it had already been conveyed to all media organizations to follow the guidelines of ECI strictly especially during election time and any violation of those guidelines would be dealt with strictly . She said that meanwhile observers both expenditure and general have started arriving in various constituencies and all ROs have been issued instructions to provide total support to the observers in the discharge of their duties. They have been asked to publicize the name and contact numbers of the observers so that general public and political parties could approach them without any hindrance.
Focusing on check of illicit liquor, all DCs and SSPs have been issued instructions to raid such dens and destroy the liquor seized during the raid. They were asked to focus on those areas known for illicit distillation and keep a watch in these areas so that they do not again come into business after raids.

The DC Bathinda has sent a report of the incident between two rival candidates at Rampura Phul and Bhagta Bhai  ka.The ECI has also sought report from DGP and SSP Bathinda The ECI has also sought report from three ROs of Ferozepur, Sangrur and Jalandhar where supporters of the candidates threw currency notes in the air after filing the nomination papers.
        .       The DCs have been asked to submit fresh Vulnerability Map of their districts according to the fresh guidelines of the ECI by January 14.
        Stressing on check of flow of black money SSPs have been asked to randomly check the vehicles of the candidates, all government vehicles as well as security vehicles.
        The Commission has received 1275 complaints regarding violation of model code of conduct from across the state out of which 605 have been disposed off. A notice has been issued to Mr. Mohinder Singh KP for holding a public meeting without permission in Jalandhar West. Besides that, the CEO has sought a report regarding the political gathering by SAD candidate Ajit Singh Kohar in Dana Mandi at Shahkot.  A report has also been sought by the RO Jalandhar in case of one Ms. Sucheta Kalia Manager Punjab School Education Board, relative of Manoranjan Kalia promoting the interests of BJP and SAD through schools.

        The Static Surveillance teams have seized unaccounted money worth Rs. 18,84,82,010. Besides that gold worth Rs. 40, lakh has been recovered from a PRTC bus going to Delhi at Khanna.
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OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB- Vatavaran Aty Samaj Bachaao Morcha Punjab

Chandigarh January12:  

A delegation of the Vatavaran Aty Samaj Bachaao Morcha Punjab along with its allies of more than 50 environment centric organizations, headed by noted environmentalist and a social activist, Sant Balbir Singh Seechewala today called on the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu. The delegation submitted a memorandum and placed on record its appreciation for the efforts of the CEO Punjab in conducting free, fair, liquor & drug free and peaceful polls in the state.
          Appreciating the decision of ECI for not allowing door-to-door distribution of the voter slips and not allowing the political parties to set up their camps outside the polling booth, Baba Seechewala said that this step would check the poll related violence and conflicts largely on the day of polling. He said that to generate awareness amongst the voters and motivate them to vote without favor and fear, the Organization would print and paste special calendars and posters at the polling booths with the prior permission of the ECI by the Organization. He appealed the political parties to evolve an agenda to tackle the problem of environmental pollution in the state in larger public interest. He urged the ECI to make required amendments in the Law in order to declare the manifestos released by the Political Parties as a legal document. He also urged the commission to take steps in enabling the voters to reject the candidates on the EVM itself.
                   Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu also appreciated the efforts of environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal and his allies for unrelenting and selfless efforts to make the environment pure and pollution. She has asked the deputy commissioners of the state to provide election material to the organization with a view to motivating the voters to exercise their right to vote without fear.
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NOMINATIONS TODAY ---------507 (ALONG WITH COVERING CANDIDATES)

Chandigarh January 11

: As many as 507 nominations have been filed today for the elections to the 117 assembly constituencies of Punjab.
According to a spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, total number of nomination papers filed until date is 979 . Total 472 nominations were filed earlier.
                   It has nominations in District Fatehgarh sahib -20, Mansa-10, Moga-20, Gurdaspur-18, Ferozepur-18, Ludhiana-76, Patiala-46, Jalandhar-43, Bathinda 30, Amritsar-62, Mohali-15, Muktsar-16, Nawan shahr-15, Fazilka-16, Tarn Tarn-35, Sagrur-32, Kapurthala-19, Pathankot-13, Barnala-27, Faridkot-31, Ropar 12 and Hoshiarpur 23. 
Prominent candidates who filed their nomination papers today included: Deepinder Singh Dhillon IND,--Derabassi, Balbir Singh Sidhu INC-Mohali, Jasjit Singh Randhawa INC-Dera bassi, Sukhpal Singh Nannu BJP-Ferozepur, Parminder Singh Pinki INC- Fzr City, Satkar Kaur inc-fzr Rural, Raman Behal INC-Pathankot, Surjit Singh Kohli SAD-Patiala, Surjit Singh Rakhra SAD-Samana, Brahm Mohindra INC-Patiala Rural, Sadhu Singh Dharamkot INC-Nabha, Hardyal Singh Kamboj INC-Rajpura, Jathedat Tota Singh SAD-Dharamkot, Joginder Pal Jain INC-Moga, Ajit Singh Shant INC-Nihalsinghwala, Satinder Kaur Kariha SAD-Nawan shahr, Mohan Singh SAD-Banga, Amarinder Singh Warring INC-Gidderbaha, Gurdas Singh Badal PPP-Lambi, Hans Raj josan Ind.- Jalalabad, Malkit Singh INC-Jalalabad, Upinder jit Kaur SAD-Sultanpur lodhi, Bibi Jagir Kaur SAD Bholath, Rana Gurjit Singh INC-Kapurthala, Sarabjit Makkar SAD-Kapurthala, Prof. Prem Singh ChandumajraSAD-Fatehgarh sahib, Justice Nirmal Singh SAD, Harbans Kaur Dullo INC, Jagdeep Singh Cheema SAD, Ch. Santokh Singh INC-Phillaur, Ajit Singh Kohar SAD-Shahkot, Avinash Chander SAD-Phillaur, Pawan Kumar Tinu SAD-Adampur, Surinder Pal Singh Sibia INC-Sangrur, Razia Sultan INC-Malerkotla, Bhagwant Mann PPP-Lehragaga, Gulzar Singh Ranike SAD-Attari, Harpartap Ajnala INC-Ajnala, Sukminder Singh Sarkaria INC- Raja Sansi, Kewal Singh Dhillon INC-Barnala, Darbara Singh Guru SAD-Bhadaur, Mohamad Siddique INC-Bhadaur, Gobind Singh Kanjala SAD-Mehalkalan, Harmohinder Singh Jassi INC-Bathinda, Sikandar Singh MalukaSAD-Rampura Phul, Janmeja Singh Sekhon SAD-Maur, Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu INC-Talwandi Sabo, Ripjeet Singh BrarINC-Kotkapura, Gurdev Singh Badal SAD-Jaiton,
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Capt Amarinder promises  equitable development of all regions without prejudice or preference

DHURI (SANGRUR), January 11:

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today announced that once Congress comes to power in the state the government will set up special city and town development authorities for all the small cities and towns to ensure proper and planned development.
He promised that the Congress government will ensure the equitable development of all the cities and towns without any prejudice or preference for any particular region.
Addressing a public meeting before accompanying the local party candidate Arvind Khanna to file his nomination papers from Dhuri assembly segment, Capt Amarinder said that Punjab needs the total revamp of the urban development policy. He said, legalizing the unauthorized colonies for the political compulsions as the Akalis have done was not the solution. He said, the cities need proper planning and development lest these turn into slums.
He pointed out, by the year 2022 sixty per cent of the Punjab population will be living in urban areas and for that the planning needs to be done right now. He said, he was not against legalizing the unauthorized colonies in the cities, but he wanted that these colonies should have all the facilities of drainage, sewerage, drinking water and proper roads.
The PCC President regretted that the Akali-BJP squandered away the mandate by the people and did not come up to their expectations. “With the result they (the Akali-BJP) have lost credibility and people want change”, he pointed out, while appealing people to be the harbingers of change and vote Congress to power.
Responding to local party candidate Arvind Khanna’s demand that Dhuri should get as much grants as Patiala, Capt Amarinder said, he did not discriminate between the places and entire Punjab was same for him. He promised that the Congress government will set up a proper sewage and drainage system in the Dhuri town which is a long pending demand of the local residents.
Speaking on the occasion Arvind Khanna promised to change the socio-economic profile of the constituency saying health, education and social uplfitment of the downtrodden will be his top most priority.
Prominent among those present on the occasion included local MP Vijay Inder Singla, senior party leaders Mai Roop Kaur, Laly Jawandha and others.
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CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB- confiscated two vehicles, carrying one case each of illicit liquor, belonging to two Police officials at Mohali.

Chandigarh January 11:
The Static Surveillance Team of the CEO Punjab has confiscated two vehicles, carrying one case each of illicit liquor, belonging to two Police officials at Mohali.

            Giving details of these catches, Special Chief Electoral Officer, Ms. Usha R Sharma said that Jagdeep Singh, DSP Crime was in the vehicle, which was stopped at the nakka, the driver ran away with the vehicle leaving the officer there. Later he was nabbed and a case of liquor was found in the vehicle, another vehicle Innova belonging to DSP Harbhajan Singh of IRB was also confiscated at Mohali along with a case of liquor. FIRs have been registered in both the cases and action was initiated against the drivers under Excise Act.
 Keeping in view the ensuing elections to the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on January 30, the Election Commission of India has declared complete prohibition in the state 48 hours before the date of polling and March 6, when counting takes place.Non-proprietary clubs, star hotels, restaurants etc and hotels having licenses for possession and supply of liquor would not be permitted to serve liquor on these days and all the liquor vends in Punjab would also remain closed. Storage of liquor by the individuals shall be curtailed and restrictions provided in the excise law on the storage of liquor in unlicensed premises shall be vigorously enforced, she added.
                        Clarifying on the opening of new account by the candidate, she said that although it was required for the candidate to furnish the details of the newly opened account to the Returning Officers but for want of this information their nominations papers would not be rejected.
                        She further said that in respect of the objections received in Form 7, after the final publication of electoral rolls on January 2, 2012 with 1-1-2012 as the qualifying date, the commission has directed that the names of only deceased voters would be deleted. The EROs shall prepare polling station wise list of all the remaining objections and give it to the Presiding Officer who shall thoroughly verify the identity of the said voter at the time of polling. The applications received in other forms the EROs shall take action as per ECI’s instructions.
                        Giving details of the complaints, Ms. Sharma said that the CEO has received 1210 complaints regarding the violation of code of conduct out of which 550 have been disposed off. Besides that, 167066 licensed arms have been deposited. As many as 42 unlicensed arms and 130 ammunition were seized and 7720 Non-bailabale warrants have been executed.     
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Senior BJP leader Jagdish Sawhney joins Congress

CHANDIGARH, January 11: Senior Bhartiya Janata Party leader and former Chief Parliamentary Secretary Punjab Mr Jagdish Sawhney today joined the Congress. He said, he had come to the conclusion that only Congress could save the Punjab from the disaster the Akali-BJP government had pushed it into.
Mr Sawhney was welcomed into the party by the Punjab in-charge Mr Gulchain Singh Charak and the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh. They said, Mr Sawhney had joined the party without any condition.
Speaking on the occasion Mr Sawhney said, the BJP had failed his expectations and that of the party workers. He said, he had tirelessly worked for twenty years for the BJP but at the end of the day he was let down and punished for speaking the truth.
He said, his only dream was that Batala should be made a district and the Congress leaders had promised him to make it a district when the Congress forms the government.
Replying to questions of the reporters he said, he was disappointed that the BJP did not do anything to get district status for Batala. He said, the party had let down all its cadres as it had failed to deliver and come to their expectations.
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Congress not to hold political conference during Magi Mela

CHANDIGARH, January 11:

The Congress will not hold the political conference during the Magi Mela this year. The decision to this effect was taken after the party leaders said that they were busy with their own campaigning.
The general opinion in the party was that since the elections were being held slightly earlier than expected, most of the leaders were busy in their own assembly segments. Hence there was a unanimous decision that the party will not hold the political conference during the Magi Mela this year.
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NOMINATIONS FILED------275 (including covering) Chandigarh January 10: As many as 275 nominations have been filed today for the elections to the 117 assembly constituencies of Punjab.

According to a spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab total number of nomination papers filed till date is 472. Total 197 nominations were filed earlier.
      Prominent among others who have filed their nominations today
included:  S. Parkash Singh Badal SAD-Lambi, Amarinder Singh INC-Patiala City, Kuldeep Kaur Tohra SAD-Patiala Rural, Raj Khurana BJP-Rajpura, Som Parkash BJP-Phagwara, Raman Behal INC-Gurdaspur, Gurbachan Singh Babbehali SAD-Gurdaspur, Gurkirat Singh INC-Khanna, Aman Arora INC-Sunam, Dr. Mahinder Kumar Rinwa INC-Fazilka, N.K.Sharma SAD-Derabassi, Randeep Singh INC-Amloh, Gurchet Singh Bhullar INC-Khemkaran, Navjot Kaur Sidhu BJP-Amritsar East.

2,61,000 applications have been received  in Punjab. Disclosing this here today in a media interaction she said that the Deputy Commissioners have been asked to verify the forms at random to ensure that no bogus voters

Chandigarh January 10: The Chief Electoral Officer Punjab Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu while talking to media said that 2,61,000 applications have been received  in Punjab. Disclosing this here today in a media interaction she said that the Deputy Commissioners have been asked to verify the forms at random to ensure that no bogus voters are entered in the electoral roll. DCs have reported that no case of bogus voters has been detected so far Applications from 64 NRIs have been received during the period January 2 to 4, 2012.

                   An enquiry was ordered into a complaint from village Maujpur in district Gurdaspur regarding illicit liquor. The DC had sent a party to visit the village where a huge quantity of liquor, meant to be used in the elections, was found. She has thanked the civic-minded people of Punjab for their support and proactive feedback during this time
. ECI has allowed only 10 vehicles in a convoy by a candidate and not unlimited numbers as earlier.

                   The Chief Electoral Officer today held a meeting with the Principal Secretary Health and the Drug Controller of the State, to keep a strict check on chemists not functioning within the parameters of Law.
She said that the last date for submitting the list of the Star Campaigners by the political parties to the CEO is January 12. To ensure peaceful polls in Punjab required para- military forces have started arriving in the state.
About 42 unlicensed arms and 130 ammunition have been seized and 163122 licensed arms have been deposited so far. As many as 2222 persons were bound down under sections 107/116 IPC. Total numbers of 7620 non-bailable warrants have been executed; unaccounted cash amounting to Rs. 17, 18, 40,905 has been found. About 2096 kgs poppy husk, 3122212 ml illicit liquor 81818 bottles of country liquor, 7880.5 kgm opium, 6340grms heroin, 1552 grms smack, 33524Kgs Lahan have been seized ,four vehicles carrying 10 liters intoxicated liquid were impounded after the declaration of model code of conduct in the state. As many as 1058 complaints of violation of model code of conduct have been received out of which 535 have been disposed off.
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India TV Survey Predicts Win For Congress In Punjab, Uttarakhand, PUNJAB  

In Punjab, Congress with Capt Amarinder Singh appears to be heading to power, with the survey projecting 61 out of 117 seats. The Akali-BJP combine has been projected to get 46 seats (Akali 40 and BJP 6), with ten seats going to 'others'.
 
42 per cent of the respondents supported Congress, while 38 per cent expressed support to SAD-BJP combine. 
 
79 per cent said Team Anna's campaign will have no impact on their decision to vote, while  64 per cent of the respondents wanted change in government.
 
Among the popular chief ministerial candidates, Capt Amarinder Singh led with 36 per cent, and chief minister Parkash Singh Badal got  30 per cent support .

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OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB

Chandigarh January 10: A deputation of Punjab Subordinate Services Federation today met the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu and apprised her of the demands of the staff on election duties in the state.

              In response to their demands of exempting the wife in case of couples put on election duty, she said that it is for the Deputy Commissioners’ to decide in each such case. Similarly, she said that no blanket exemption in the election duties will be given to the widows and unmarried girls except for pregnant women. Physically challenged employees are to be exempted but those with fewer handicaps could be used for less arduous duties. She also said that there would be a special holiday on January 31 and the staff on election duty would be paid for the training period.

              She also said that there was no bar on making salary payments. Promotions could be effected with the clearance of the ECI after the model code of conduct was announced in Punjab, but large-scale movements because of promotions cannot be allowed now in the state. She said that a clarification could be sought through the administrative secretaries and Chief Secretary whenever it is required in this regard.

                                 She said that BLOs would be paid separately for their BLO duties relating to the electoral roll and separately for the duties they discharge on poll day. On a complaint made that BLOs have not been paid their honorarium this year, the CEO clarified that funds had been placed at the disposal of the Deputy Commissioners who would be asked to clear these payments quickly.  
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    Baba Tek Singh Dhanaula joins Congress; narrates details of atrocities by police

CHANDIGARH, January 10:

Sant Baba Tek Singh Dhanuala today joined the Congress along with several supporters and Akali leaders. He was inducted into the party by the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh. Baba Tek Singh is a former SGPC member. He also remained a member of the SGPC executive committee and the Dharam Parchar Committee.

Talking to the reporters Baba Tek Singh narrated the details of atrocities committed on him by the police at the behest of the Akali-BJP government. He revealed that three false cases were slapped on him by the police and he was arrested despite a clear bail from the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Baba Tek Singh revealed that despite the court orders once he was dragged to the police station and his turban tossed in full view of public and the media. “I was hunted and hounded by the Akalis as they wanted to wrest control over the Baba Gala Singh Trust which is now under their illegal occupation”, he said.
Assuring full justice to Baba Tek Singh, Capt Amarinder Singh said, once the Congress comes to power all those people who victimized him will be brought to book. He condemned the Akalis for victimizing everyone who did not succumb to their pressure including the religious leaders like Baba Tek Singh.

Others who joined the Congress today included Buta Singh Dhaliwal, Balwinder Singh Dugga both members of the Municipal Council Barnala,Kuldeep Singh, Harjinder Singh and Balwinder Singh Numberdar, all Akali leaders.
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Sanjha Morcha declared 5th List

• Kamal Chaudhary & Birdavinder  joined Sanjha Morcha

Chandigarh : Today the fifth list of the People’s Party of Punjab was declared having 8 candidates. According to PPP spokeman Arunjot Singh Sodhi the latest list including Sh. Kamal Chaudhary Ex-MP from Hoshiarpur, Birdavinder Singh Former Dy. Speaker SAS Nagar, Darbara Singh Tiwana Patiala (Rural), Virsa Singh Layalpuri Jandiala (SC), Kuldeep Singh Cheema (Retd. SP) Jallandhar Central, Jagdish Kumar Jassal Aadampur (SC), Amarjit Singh Dhadekatwal Mukerian and Ajaib Singh (Retd. Range Officer) from Chabewal (SC).
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Complaint against Bhupinder Singh and Bibi Jagir Kaur for violating the Representation of the Peoples   .....  Sukhpal Singh Khaira,  

     To,                                                                                                        

1. Ms Kusumjit Sidhu, IAS,   Chief Electoral Officer,       Punjab

2. Deputy Commissioner cum District Election Officer,Kapurthala

3. SDM cum Returning Officer 26-Bholath Constituency

4. SSP Kapurthala
5. SHO Police Station Begowal
6. SHO Police Station Bholath

Subject: - Complaint against Bhupinder Singh and Bibi Jagir Kaur for violating the Representation of the Peoples Act 1950.

Sir,
            It is brought to your notice that Bhupinder Singh S/o Jagjit Singh R/o H.No. 751 V. Raipur Pirbax Wala who is son-in-law of Bibi Jagir Kaur is enlisted as a voter at serial no. 927, Part No. 40 of the above said village and has a Voter ID card no. TLN0260018 which is enlisted in the voter list of 2012 Bholath constituency 26 (the photocopy attached alongwith) The above said person in connivance with Bibi Jagir Kaur has got himself enrolled as a voter in Ward No. 11 V. Begowal, Tehsil Bholath at serial no. 1235, Part No. 7 in the voter list of 2010 and now in the voter list of 2012 it has been renumbered as serial no. 443, Part No. 8  having a Voter ID card no. DWC1831445 showing himself to be the resident of H.No. 2285/129 Begowal. This house belongs to Bibi Jagir Kaur. (Photocopies of the voter lists showing the particulars of Bhupinder Singh is attached herewith).

            It has come to my knowledge that the above said accused has used and casted his vote at two different villages in the recently held elections. He has also used these two voter identity cards to his advantage at various places. The enrolment of two votes and getting two voter ID cards by Bhupinder Singh S/o Jagjit Singh at two different places has been deliberately made in connivance with Bibi Jagir Kaur, which is apparent from the fact that she has allowed her son-in-law Bhupinder Singh to use her residential address to illegally enroll himself as a voter of Ward no.11 V. Begowal knowing that he is already registered as a voter at serial no. 927 V Raipur Pirbax Wala shows her complicity in the above said illegal act. The said act is covered by the provisions of Sec 420, 120-B IPC and U/S 31 of the Representation of the Peoples Act 1950.

            Therefore, I request you to take legal action against the above said two accused by registering an FIR under the above said provisions of law.
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Capt Amarinder files nomination papers from Patiala; says overwhelming mood for chang

PATIALA, January 10:

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today filed his nomination papers from the Patiala-I assembly segment. He was accompanied by the members of his family including his wife Ms Perneet Kaur, the Minister of State for External Affairs, son Mr Raninder Singh, daughter Ms Jai Inder Kaur and daughter in law Ms Rishma Kaur.
He arrived around noon at the local Mini Secretariat and submitted his papers in the office of the Sub Division Magistrate Patiala, Mr Anil Garg.
On the way back outside the Mini Secretariat, replying to questions from the reporters, he said, the Congress was certain and confidant of forming the government in Punjab as there was a total mood for change in the state. He said, people were so upset with the Akalis that they were counting the days as when they (the Akalis) will be thrown out.
The PCC President also clarified that there was not much dissidence within the party after the announcement of the candidates. He said, there were some initial reactions but except for one or two persons all those not happy with the list have met him and agreed and assured that they will be campaigning for the party candidates and some of them had already joined the campaign.
Ridiculing the Akali Dal president Mr Sukhbir Badal for leveling baseless allegations that Congress tickets were sold for Rs 25 crores each, Capt Amarinder remarked, “Congress party does not sell tickets as Akalis do, but if Sukhbir believes that Congress tickets were really sold and that too for such a whopping amount, he should better realize and pack off as it means Congress was certain to form the government in the state as nobody likes to buy a losing stock”.
The PCC President reiterated that Mr Raninder Singh was allotted the party ticket by the high command in recognition of having fought against the Akali candidate Ms Harsimrat Kaur Badal in the Bathinda parliamentary elections as he gave a tough fight to the Badals there. He said, although he lost but he polled 4.18 lakh votes even more than some elected MPs.
He said that all the senior leaders of the party from the centre including the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, the Congress President Ms Sonia Gandhi, general secretary Mr Rahul Gandhi will come for campaigning in Punjab in the coming days.
Asked about how many seats Congress expected to win, he said, the party was confidant of winning at least 75 seats as indicated by various surveys including those conducted by the state government intelligence agencies. “But our effort will be to increase the number of seats to maximum and each and every candidate is confidant of winning”, he said, while adding “and they have every reason to feel confident”.
Replying to another question about his own campaign in Patiala, he said, he may not be able to spend much time in Patiala assembly segment as he has to go to each and every assembly segment across Punjab to campaign for the party candidates. “Each resident and every voter in Patiala will be campaigning for me”, he said, while asking, “do you still think that I need to campaign here?”

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OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB NOMINATIONS FILED------171

Chandigarh January 9:

As many as 171 nominations have been filed today for the elections to the 117 assembly constituencies of Punjab.
According to a spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab total number of nomination papers filed till date is 197. Total 26 nominations were filed earlier.

      Prominent among others who have filed their nominations today

included: Sukhbir Singh Badal-Jalalabad SAD, Manpreet Singh Badal-Maur PPP, S Lal Singh INC-Sanaur, Charanjit Kaur Bajwa INC, Tript Rajinder Singh—Fatehgarh Churian INC, Harminder Singh-Patti INC, Sukhpal Singh Khaira-Bholath INC, Amarjit Samra-Nakodar INC, K.D.Bhandari-Jalandhar North BJP, Avtar Henry-Jalandhar Cantt INC, Harbans Lal-Fatehgarh sahib IND., Sat Pal Gosain-Ludhiana Central BJP, Paramdeep Gill-Moga SAD, Rana Gurmeet Sodhi-Guru Harsahai INC, Sunil Kumar Jakhar-Abohar INC, Avtar Singh Brar-Faridkot INC, Hardev Singh Arshi-Mansa, Rajinder Kaur Bhathal-Lahra Gaga INC, S.Lal Singh-Sanour INC, Tejinder Pal Singh Sandhu-Sanour SAD.

Slogans and photographs of the Deputy Chief Minister have been removed or painted over from 226 water tanks...
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER PUNJAB

Chandigarh January 9:

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has given approval to hold interviews of the contract faculty for the current semester to the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology Jallandhar. At the same time, the ECI has declined to give nod to the joining of the newly appointed medical and veterinary officers in the state who had not joined after their selection but before the code coming into effect.

      Disclosing this here today, Ms. Kusumjit Sidhu, Chief Electoral Officer Punjab said that on the directive of ECI, the slogans and photographs of the Deputy Chief Minister have been removed or painted over from 226 water tanks and 933 RO water plants installed under state government’s rural water supply and sanitation schemes in the villages.
Ms. Sidhu also said that a clarification from ECI was sought by the UMEED Foundation to use the pictures and slogans on the ambulances, vans, bags, publicity material distributed owned by the foundation, the ECI, in response has replied that if the owner of the Foundation happens to be a candidate in the state assembly elections then the photographs and slogans have to be removed. If they were left displayed after he files his nomination then cost would be added to his election expenditure.

 All advertisements of the Punjab Government have been removed from the state transport buses as per the reports received from GM Roadways by the DC Patiala

            Intensifying efforts to check excessive use of money in the assembly elections, Ms. Sidhu said that all the government vehicles, even her own vehicle, could be randomly checked. The DCs have been asked not to let any helicopter or aircraft land in their respective district without the prior permission of the DM/ District Election Officer concerned, said Ms. Sidhu. As many as 80 unauthorized hoardings and posters have been removed at various places across the state. The CEO has sought a report from DPRO SAS Nagar in the case of jokes being telecast about S. Parkash Singh Badal on 92.7 FM radio. There were
1001 complaints of model code of violation received from all over the sate out of which 506 have been disposed off.
      About 40 unlicensed arms have been seized and 159051 licensed arms have been deposited so far. As many as 2048 persons were bound down under sections 107/116 IPC. Total numbers of 7596 non-bailable warrants have been executed, unaccounted cash amounting to Rs. 16, 76,
31,905 has been found. Cases involving cash amounting to Rs.8,20,29515 have been referred to the Income Tax Department of which Rs.1,15,55048 has been seized. About 2049 kgs poppy husk, 2677711 ml illicit liquor,
73235 kgm opium, 6340grms heroin, 1548 grms smack have been seized after the declaration of model code of conduct in the state

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Punjab Roadways/ PUNBUS Bag 3 Awards
 
Chandigarh, January 9:
 
PUNBUS has been awarded the Winners’ Trophy and Cash Award for having lowest accident rate amongst all State Transport Undertakings in the country for the Year 2010 – 11. The trophy and the award was received by Mr. Mandeep Singh, Secretary Transport, Punjab today at New Delhi from Mr. A. K. Upadhyay, IAS, President ASRTU & Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport  & Highways Government of India. PUNBUS was also awarded for being one of the five profit making STUs in the country. Similarly Punjab Roadways bagged the Winners’ Trophy and cash award for lowest accident rate amongst STUs for 2010 – 2011 which was also received by Mr. Mandeep Singh in today’s function.
 
PUNBUS and Punjab Roadways have the distinction of receiving this award for the second year in succession. The accident rate in PUNBUS for year 2010 – 2011 was 0.0625 for every 1 lakh KMs time operated while it was 0.0436 per lakh KMs for Punjab Roadways. PUNBUS has posted a profit of Rs. 2.03 Crores for the year 2010 – 11.
 
Meanwhile, Mr. Mandeep Singh informed that PUNBUS was one of the youngest State Transport Undertakings in the country and new buses were being added to the fleet of PUNBUS every year. Presently PUNBUS and Punjab Roadways together have a fleet of 1800 buses. PUNBUS has taken many innovative measures like introduction of Electronic- Ticketing Machines, GPS System and Passenger Information System, Online Reservation System and Advance Reservation System for providing convenience to its passengers. He further said that the reasons for lowest accident rate in the country were the replacement of over-aged fleet with new fleet of buses every year, check on drunken driving and over speeding and intensive training and regular medical check- ups of drivers.

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SAD RELEASES FIFTH LIST OF 8 CANDIDATES

Chandigarh, January 9 :

The Shiromani Akali Dal President S. Sukhbir Singh Badal and party Patron and Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal today announced 8 more candidates in the fifth list of the party candidates for the Punjab Vidhan Sabha elections.

          In a statement released from the party head office here today party Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema disclosed that party has nominated former Indian Hockey team Captain and former Director sports Mr. Pargat Singh for Jalandhar Cantt seat. From Baba Bakala (SC) seat party MLA Mr. Manjit Singh Manna has been nominated, from Samrala party has fielded Jathedar Kirpal Singh Khirnia member PAC, Baljit Singh Jalalumsan member SGPC from Jandiala (SC), Prem Mittal from Mansa, Sant Singh Brar from Gidderbaha, Kanwarjit Singh RoziBarkandi from Sri Mukatsar Sahib and Darshan Singh Kotfatta from Bathinda rural seat.

          Dr. Cheema said that party has now declared a totol of 93 candidates and candidate for Nabha seat would be declared soon.

          It is worth mentioning here that party had release four list earlier with 47 candidates in first list, 15 in the second, 10 in the third and 13 candidates in the fourth list.
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Congress leaders meet Capt Amarinder

CHANDIGARH, January 8:

Several prominent Congress leaders who were not able to get the party nomination for the coming assembly elections met the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder here today and yesterday and assured him that they will work for the party candidates to ensure that the Congress comes back to power in Punjab.
Prominent among those who met the PCC President today and yesterday included PCC general secretary Fateh Jang Bajwa, convenor of the Ex Servicemen Cell Laly Jawandha from Dhuri, former MLA Kanwaljit Laly and Tejinder Singh Bittu, both from Jallandhar, Manoj Arora, Jagjivanpal Singh Gill, Amarinder Singh Libra, Raghubir Singh from Gidderbaha, Ramesh Singla, Rajbir Singh Padiala, Jagtar Singh Rajla and others.
Capt Amarinder assured them that the leadership was very much appreciative of their contribution and long standing in the party. However, he pointed out, since only one candidate could be nominated from one seat all of them could not be accommodated. “It should in no way mean that they were in any way less capable”, he made it clear, while adding, it was a difficult choice.
These leaders told the PCC President that they stood by him and the party and they will work for its victory and ensure that Punjab is rid off the corrupt Akali-BJP regime. Capt Amarinder told them that once Congress comes to power each one of them will be suitably accommodated in the government.
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The Election Commission of India has issued detailed guidelines for the political parties registered with the ECI

Chandigarh January 8:

The Election Commission of India has issued detailed guidelines for the political parties registered with the ECI and its candidates contesting Punjab Vidhan Sabha elections in the state.

                   Disclosing this here today, a Spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab,  said that for the reservation and allotment of election symbols, recognized or registered political parties are required  to  fill the form A. The Form A contains the details of the nominated candidate and his constituency and submits the same to the Chief Electoral Officer Punjab and the Returning Officer concerned before 3 pm on January 12, 2012. The political parties should also intimate the names of the persons who are authorized to sign Form B. He also said that the Party President or Secretary should sign the Form A with the seal of the Party.
                   The Spokesperson further said that the Form B should be submitted positively before 3 pm on January 12, 2012 to the Returning Officer. The name of the official candidate should be clearly mentioned in the Form, which has to be signed by the authorized person of the concerned party. The column 5 &7 of the Form B must mention name of the substitute candidate who will step in on the approved candidate’s nomination being rejected on scrutiny or on his withdrawing from the contest.

No fresh release of funds under the Member of Parliaments (including Rajya Sabha) Local Area Development Fund (MPLAD)

CHANDIGARH, JANUARY 7: 

The Election Commission of India has made it clear that no fresh release of funds under the Member of Parliaments (including Rajya Sabha) Local Area Development Fund (MPLAD) would be made in any part of the country where Election process was in progress.

          Disclosing this here today, the Special Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Mrs. Usha R. Sharma said that, as per the guidelines of the ECI, no fresh release of funds under the MLAs/MLCs Local Area Development Fund would be made until the completion of the election process. She, however, said that there would be no bar releasing the payments for already completed work subject to the satisfaction of the officer concerned.

          Mrs. Sharma also said that the Commission has allowed the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation to disburse loans provided the beneficiaries had been identified before the announcement of poll schedule in the state.

       She said that ECI clarified that use of medical vans having the photographs of congress candidate, Mr. Arvind Khanna, by the UMEED foundation during campaigning, was a violation of Model Code of Conduct. She said that if medical vans were to be used in the normal course for providing medical assistance, photographs of Arvind Khanna should be removed with immediate effect. As far as distribution of booklets ,handbags, notebooks, diaries, T shirts etc. are concerned, the expenditure on such items , if distributed after filing the nomination , would be borne by the candidate himself.

       She said that 875 complaints regarding the violation of Model code of conduct have been received, out of which 360 have been disposed off. As many as 148787 licensed arms have been deposited and 30 unlicensed arms and 79 cartridges have been seized. She said that 7444 non-bailable warrants have been executed and 1721 persons bound down under section 107/116 of IPC. Unaccounted money worth Rs. 9 Lakh fifteen thousand have been seized by the Static Surveillance Teams at Jalandhar. Unaccounted money amounting to Rs.15, 04, 82,538 has been seized after the declaration of model code of conduct in the state. Taking note of the news item appeared in a Hindi Daily regarding the violation of model code of conduct by Raj Kumar Gupta of INC from Jallandhar Central, she said that a report from Retuning Officer Jallandhar has been sought in this connection. Referring to the reports of sale of illicit liquor at Basti Danishmanda in Jalandhar, She said that the matter has already been forwarded to Commissioner of Police Jalandhar for a detailed report.

 Denying the media reports that EC teams were not searching the vehicles of Politicians, Mrs. Sharma said that the ECI has sent clear directions and guidelines that not a single vehicle would go unchecked by the flying squads and static surveillance teams.  However, the Police Commissioner Jallandhar and the SSP have been asked to submit report in this regard to the CEO within 24 hours.
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PM, Ms Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi to campaign in Punjab elections

CHANDIGARH, January 7

: Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, the Congress President Ms Sonia Gandhi and the general secretary Mr Rahul Gandhi will be campaigning for the party in Punjab.

Disclosing this here today, the Punjab Pradesh congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh said that the campaign programme was being worked out and will be announced soon.

JASJIT SINGH BUNNY TO CAMPAIGN FOR NK SHARMA
BUNNY WOULD BE SUITABLE ADJUSTED IN THE GOVERNMENT-SUKHBIR

Zirakpur, January 7 :

Senior leader of the Shiromani Akali and MLA Mr. Jasjit Singh Bunny has announced to full participate in the election  campaign in favour of party candidate Mr. NK Sharma from Derabassi assembly seat.

            He announced this decision in the presence of party President and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal who visited the residence of Capt. Kanwaljit Singh today. On the occasion Youth wing President and former minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majhithia, party candidate from Derabassi Mr. NK Sharma, Incharge of media Committee of SAD Mr. Harcharan Singh Bains and Derabassi leader Mr. Mukesh Rana was also present.

            Mr. Jasjit Singh Bunny said that Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal is like political father to him and whatever decision has been taken by him and Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal in the interest of the his family and party, it was acceptable to him and  he would abide by it.

            Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal on the occasion said that SAD-BJP alliance was set to sweep the present assembly elections and after formation of government Mr. Jasjit Singh Bunny would be suitably adjusted in the government. He also exhorted all the leaders and workers of the party to work hard for ensuing the clean sweep of the alliance.

            Thanking Mr. Bunny for his support Mr. NK Sharma said that he had cordial relations with the family of late Capt. Kanwaljit Singh and decision of Mr. Bunny would boost his campaing and hoped that Mr. Bunny would came forward to handle his election campaign.
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Winnablity was the only criterion for allotting tickets: Capt Amarinder

CHANDIGARH, January 7: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Capt Amarinder Singh today said that the winnablity was the only criterion for choosing the candidates for the assembly elections. Besides, he added, the party had ensured that the tickets were distributed according to the population ratio of the state.
Addressing a press conference here today, Capt Amarinder disclosed that the party gave adequate representation to the youth and the women with 24 of the candidates being less than 45 years of age. Besides, he added, the party had fielded 36 fresh faces in this election.
Maintaining that the final decision was taken by the Central Election Committee headed by the Congress President Ms Sonia Gandhi, Capt Amarinder said, the decision was taken in the larger interest of the party. He agreed that at some places there were more than one deserving and winning candidates. “It was really a difficult choice to make as only one candidate could be fie