విజయలక్ష్మి పర్యటనను అడ్డుకునే ప్రయత్నాల్ని ఖండించిన లోక్ సత్తా

Lok Satta condemns attempts to thwart Vijayamma’s visit

Lok Satta Party today condemned the police for preventing YSRCP Honorary President Y. S. Vijayalakshmi from entering Nalgonda district and removing her to a police station in Khammam district. Mrs. Vijayalakshmi was on a visit to console farmers hit by heavy rains and floods in Telangana districts.

In a media statement, State Lok Satta Party President Katari Srinivasa Rao said the police seemed to be acting at the behest of Congress Ministers and other party leaders who had called upon people to thwart Mrs. Vijayamma’s visit as she is opposed to the carving out of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao said that both the Government and political party leaders in all the regions have to observe restraint and strive to arrive an amicable and comprehensive settlement to the Telangana question, instead of provoking each other with undemocratic and unconstitutional words and deeds. The Constitution guarantees the right of every citizen to live, travel and work anywhere in the country.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao underlined that one may agree or disagree with Mrs. Vijayamma’s views on bifurcation of the State but none is entitled to abridge her rights as an Indian citizen. In fact, Telangana leaders should go the extra mile to assuage the fears of Seemandhra people over their future in Telangana and pave way for an amicable settlement.

చర్చలతో సామరస్య పరిష్కారాన్ని సాధించకుంటే తెలుగువారి సంక్షోభం దేశ సంక్షోభమవుతుంది

వోల్వో దుర్ఘటన పట్ల లోక్ సత్తా దిగ్భ్రాంతి

Lok Satta expresses dismay over Volvo accident

The Lok Satta Party today expressed dismay over nearly 45 passengers being burnt alive in a Volvo bus accident at Palem in Kothakot mandal of Mahbubnagar district in the early hours of Wednesday.

In a media statement, State Lok Satta Party President Katari Srinivasa Rao pointed out that Volvo buses have been experiencing short-circuit problems because of defective insulation and wiring in body building and installation of gadgets like TVs and audio sets beyond the engine capacity.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao, who has worked on problems in the transport sector for more than a decade, demanded that the Government enforce all safety measures including speed regulation to prevent accidents. Unfortunately, the administration has come to a standstill in the State for the last four years.

He sought a thorough inquiry into the ghastly accident and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families.

ఐక్యరాజ్యసమితి అవినీతి వ్యతిరేక ఒప్పందంపై 30న ఢిల్లీ సమావేశంలో పాల్గొంటున్న జేపీ

Dr. JP to take part in Delhi meet on Convention against Corruption

Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, General Secretary, Foundation for Democratic Reforms and Lok Satta Party national President is attending a conference being convened by the Union Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions in New Delhi on Wednesday, October 30, to review implementation of the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).

It may be recalled that India is a signatory to the convention.

The Ministry is conducting the meeting to ascertain the views of civil society leaders on Indian laws’ compliance with UNCAC provisions.

Dr Jayaprakash Narayan will highlight the improvements required in anti-corruption law, and in the institutional arrangements to combat corruption. These include effective, impartial investigation, independent prosecution, special courts, confiscation of properties of corrupt public servants, and measures to safeguard whistle blowers.

నగర భద్రతపై లోక్ సత్తా వినూత్న కార్యక్రమం

విశిష్ట ప్రజాసేవకుడు సి.ఎస్ శాస్త్రి - జేపీ నివాళి

Sastry is a public servant with pragmatic approach: Dr.JP pays tribute

Lok Satta Party National President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan expressed his condolences over the demise of C.S.Sastry, former IAS officer.

Dr. JP described him as an officer with a pragmatic approach. Dr. JP recalled that he received prizes from Mr. Sastry when he was a school student and had the opportunity of working with him later as a collegue.

A challenge to Indian federalism

The efforts of the Union government to divide Andhra Pradesh irrespective of the State legislature’s views, pose a grave danger to federalism and unity.

The decision to divide Andhra Pradesh raises important questions about federalism and the nation’s future. This is the first time in India that a state is sought to be divided without the consent of the State legislature, and without a negotiated settlement among stakeholders and regions, and in the face of public opposition.

All major federal democracies have in their Constitutions the provision that a state cannot be divided or merged with another state without its prior consent. This is the essence of federalism.

Article 3

India’s Constitution-makers gave much thought to the issue of formation of new states and reorganisation of states. The Drafting Committee and the Constituent Assembly were aware of the circumstances prevailing at that time. India witnessed Partition, accompanied by violence, bloodshed, and forced mass migration. In addition, there were several kinds of States — Parts A, B and C — and there was need to reorganise all states and integrate the 552 princely states. If the consent of every State or Unit was a precondition to altering the boundary, reorganisation would have become an excruciatingly difficult exercise. Consequently, the final text of Article 3 as promulgated provided for the President’s recommendation and ascertaining the views of the state concerned both with respect to the proposal to introduce the Bill and with respect to the provisions thereof.

Our nation-builders were wise in drafting the Constitution to suit our requirements. More important, successive governments have wisely applied Article 3 in dealing with states. While prior consent of the state was not necessary under the Constitution, in practice every state has been formed with prior consent, in most cases after a detailed, impartial examination by an independent commission. Only in the case of Punjab, there was no legislature at the time of dividing the State in 1966. But there was a broad consensus among stakeholders and no opposition.

So far, Parliament and governments have acted with restraint and wisdom in dealing with boundary issues and formation of states. They rejected the notion that anything could be done to alter boundaries, provided it is not expressly prohibited by the Constitution. While prior consent of the state legislature is not mandatory, in practice care has been taken to obtain consent, or to act only on the express request of the state. The 1956 reorganisation was based on the fundamental principle of language; there was broad national consensus on the issue.

Articles 3 & 4 in their present form are enabling provisions empowering Parliament to act in an exceptional situation when national interest warrants it, or to settle marginal boundary disputes between states when they are recalcitrant and efforts to reconcile differences and arrive at a settlement fail. The framers of the Constitution did not intend to give Parliament arbitrary powers to redraw boundaries; nor did successive Parliaments and governments act unilaterally or arbitrarily without consent, broad consensus or negotiated settlement.

Even after 1987, in every case of state formation, the consent of the state legislature was obtained. The broader principle of federalism and the willing consent of constituent units and their people has been deemed to be necessary before a state is formed or a territory merged, unless overwhelming national interest demands action by Parliament. The procedure was observed in creating Jharkhand, Uttaranchal and Chhattisgarh in 2000.

Dr. Ambedkar said in his reply to the debate in the Constituent Assembly on states’ rights: “The… charge is that the Centre has been given the power to override the States. This charge must be admitted. But before condemning the Constitution for containing such overriding powers, certain considerations must be borne in mind. The first is that these overriding powers do not form the normal feature of the Constitution. Their use and operation are expressly confined to emergencies only”.

It is this spirit that informed the actions of the Union government and Parliament over the past six decades. There were blemishes in the application of Article 356 earlier. But over the past two decades Indian federalism has matured a great deal. The Supreme Court, in Bommai (1994), made Article 356 more or less a “dead letter” — as Dr. Ambedkar had hoped. Though the Finance Commission’s recommendations are not binding on Parliament and government, those of every Finance Commission in respect of devolution of resources have been accepted and implemented. Since the report of the Tenth Finance Commission, there has been greater transparency in devolution: most of the tax revenues of the Union are being treated as the divisible pool, and a fixed proportion of it is shared with states as decided by the Finance Commission. States are now more in control of their economic future.

Limited sovereignty

This does not mean states can act as they please, or that their territorial integrity is inviolable. There is one nation and one citizenship, and the nation’s territorial integrity is paramount. However, within that overarching framework, states exercise limited sovereignty, and the federal spirit informs the operation of the Constitution. The Constitution did not intend to make India a unitary country with states functioning as municipalities, their survival dependent on the will and whim of the Union government. Nor did the operation of our Constitution over the past 63 years suggest a de facto unitary state. In fact, federalism has been deepening in India, in keeping with global trends.

The determined efforts of the Union government and its oft-repeated declarations that Andhra Pradesh will be divided irrespective of the legislature’s views, pose a grave danger to federalism and unity. Andhra Pradesh was formed with the prior consent of the Andhra State Legislature, and the Hyderabad State Legislature. When two popular movements for the state’s division were launched in the three regions — in Telangana in 1969-70, and in Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema in 1972-73 — the Union government encouraged all regions to arrive at a negotiated settlement. Corresponding constitutional provisions were put in place to safeguard the interests of all regions. An explicit and implicit compact was made by the Union with the people of Andhra Pradesh to the effect that the State would remain united. It is on this basis that people migrated on a large scale to the other regions and to the capital, Hyderabad, and built their lives, livelihoods and the State’s economy. In this backdrop, any redrawing of boundaries would need another agreement arrived at by the affected parties through patient negotiation. The Union has a seminal role in helping reconcile conflicting interests harmoniously. Parliament can act only on the basis of such an agreement, consensus and consent. Any other approach would be ham-handed, arbitrary and uneven, and run counter to the principles and practice of federalism as they have evolved under Indian conditions.

The way the President and Parliament handle the Andhra Pradesh issue will, in a fundamental sense, shape the future of the Union itself. This is a defining moment not for Andhra Pradesh alone, but for our federal Constitution and India itself.

If such an arbitrary decision becomes a precedent, any and every state could be divided or boundaries altered without consent, and without a negotiated settlement, that will effectively convert states into municipalities, and India into a unitary state. Neither the Constitution-makers nor nation-builders intended such an outcome. And India’s future will be in peril if such an effort is made to make the nation effectively unitary at this stage.

In critical moments like this the President and Parliament have to act with restraint, foresight and wisdom. The President is not only the head of the Republic, he is also a part of Parliament. The President is elected by members of both Houses as well as members of State Assemblies. In a fundamental sense the President represents the nation — both Union and states — and is the final defender of the Constitution and federalism along with the Supreme Court. This is therefore a fit case where the President should exercise his constitutional duty independently before recommending introduction of any Bill to divide the State of Andhra Pradesh.

Leaders of parliamentary parties too should act with clarity and wisdom, and with the knowledge that division of a state without its consent and a negotiated settlement among all stake-holders converts the nation effectively into a unitary one. Every state will, in future, be vulnerable to unilateral action for short-term electoral expediency.

The Constitution, the President, Parliament and the political parties will be put to a severe test in this case, and the way they respond to this challenge will shape the future of our Republic, and the future of federalism in India.

by Jayaprakash Narayan

Courtesy: The Hindu

లోక్ సత్తా 'సురక్షిత హైదరాబాద్' ఉద్యమంలో మీరు సైతం భాగస్వాములవ్వండి

Lok Satta calls for people’s participation in its ‘Safe Hyderabad’ movement

The Lok Satta Party is seeking people’s participation in its ‘Safe Hyderabad’ movement.

All that one has to do to take part in the movement is to give a missed telephone call to 1800 4193007.

Mr. Dosapati Ramu, President, Greater Hyderabad Lok Satta Party, in a media statement said that the party is striving for installation of at least 3000 CCTV cameras in the city with a population of nearly a crore immediately.

The other items on its agenda are ushering in of community policing, local courts and police reforms. Prevention of political interference in crime investigation and provision of modern training to police personnel form part of police reforms.

సెస్సుని మింగి రైతుల్ని ముంచుతారా? మార్కెట్ యార్డుల బాగు కోసం సాగుదార్లు ఉద్యమించాలి: జేపీ

Farmers suffering because of market cess diversion: Dr.JP

If agricultural produce brought by farmers to market yards in Telangana is washed away in rains these days, the blame lies squarely with the State Government, said Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan here today.

In a media statement, Dr. JP pointed out that the State Government which collects Rs.600 crore a year as market cess has over the years diverted it for other purposes instead of utilizing it to improve market yards.

Dr. JP recalled that during his Rytu Chaitanya Yatras in Medak and Nizamabad districts he noticed that farmers including women who had brought their produce for sale had to spend days at market yards without even minimum facilities like toilets.

He underlined that a cess is levied for a specific purpose and the market cess is meant for improving market yards. It is not a tax meant to augment the State’s revenue. The Government has been using market committees to rehabilitate politicians, instead of providing representation to genuine farmers. As a result, officials are having a field day.

Dr. JP demanded that market yards be improved with construction of compound walls and toilets and provision of covered space for storing produce and electronic weighing equipment.

The Government collects crores of rupees by way of market cess in Seemandhra districts too but does not utilize it on improving marketing facilities. Cotton brought to market yards is damaged in rains as there are no covered space. As a result, the price of cotton has plummeted from Rs.4000-5000 to Rs.2500-3000 a quintal.

Dr. JP wanted the Government to provide storage facilities for cotton, and cold storages for crops like chilli and turmeric and arrange for grant of pledge loans.

If the Government does not improve market yards, farmers should launch an agitation, said Dr. JP and pledged Lok Satta Party’s support.

Mr. P. Bhaskara Rao, leader, farmer’s wing of the Lok Satta Party, wanted the State Government to go to cyclone-hit farmers’ rescue immediately. The Government should also focus its attention on improving the drainage system too so that farmers do not suffer crop losses year after year.

లెక్కామీదే.. లెక్కలేనితనమూ మీదే

Govt failed to heed advice on CCTV cameras: Lok Satta

Had the Government heeded the Lok Satta suggestion made in May 2013 and installed CCTV cameras, the atrocity on software employee Abhaya could have been prevented, said Mr. Dosapati Ramu, President, Greater Hyderabad Lok Satta Party.

In a media statement, he recalled that in a representation to Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy, the Lok Satta suggested that the State Government foot the bill for CCTV cameras and seek reimbursement from the Union Government later. The State Government had sought Rs.450 crore from Delhi for installation of 3500 cameras when Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh visited Dilsukhnagar in the city in the wake of bomb blasts. The State Government could have at least asked legislators to allocate money from their constituency development fund towards purchase of cameras.

The representation drew the Chief Minister’s attention to the fact that there were only 370 CCTV cameras in the jurisdiction of the Hyderabad Police Commissioner and 51 in the jurisdiction of the Cyberabad Police Commissioner. Of them, 34 in Hyderabad and all the 51 in Cyberabad were dysfunctional. And not a new camera was installed in 2011, 2012 and till May 2013.

Mr. Ramu said in his statement that the Lok Satta would fight for protection of women and prevent atrocities against them. The State Government had failed in the discharge of its primary duty of maintaining law and order and ensuring rule of law.

సి.సి. కెమేరాల కొరత, అధ్వాన్న నిర్వహణపై హెచ్చరికల్ని ప్రభుత్వం పెడచెవిన పెట్టింది: లోక్ సత్తా

13వ ఆర్థికసంఘం నిధులు తక్షణం విడుదల చేయాలి - స్థానిక ప్రభుత్వాల సాధికారత సమాఖ్య సమావేశం డిమాండ్

Local governments demand release of 13th Finance Commission funds

Sthanika Prabhutvala Sadhikarata Samakhya, the organization fighting for empowerment of local governments, has demanded that the Government release 13th Finance Commission funds immediately, now that panchayat elections have been held. (The release of funds had been held up on the ground that elections to local bodies had not been conducted).

The federation held a meeting in Hyderabad on October 22 to discuss measures for better functioning of local bodies in the wake of successful conclusion of elections to panchayats.

Among those who took part in the meeting were federation founder and Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, federation Convener Solipeta Ramachandra Reddy, Warangal’s former Mayor Dr. T. Rajeswara Rao, ‘Ekalavya’ Venugopal Reddy, Satyanveshana Mandali leader Putta Surendra Babu, Jana Vignana Vedika founder Dr. Brahma Reddy, Lok Satta Party Vice Presidents D. V.V. S. Varma and Bandaru Ramamohan Rao, and representatives of newly elected sarpanches from districts.

In his keynote address, Dr. JP appealed to all people to transcend party lines and work for empowerment of local governments so that they could provide good governance.

Federation Convener Solipeta Ramachandra Reddy released the resolutions adopted at the meeting to media today.

The federation demanded that local bodies be recognized as local governments and panchayat offices be designated as local government offices. If the Government does not concde the demand, the federation would resort to direct action.

All Government employees working at the village level should be brought under the supervision of panchayats. Panchayats should be empowered to implement all Central and State Government schemes at the village level.

The federation suggested that the 14th Finance Commission allocate a higher share of funds for direct release to panchayats and municipalities considering their growing requirements.

The federation decided to meet Union Government representatives and seek implementation of the 73rd and 74th amendments to the Constitution.

Later, retired officials of the Panchayat Raj Department responded to sarpanches’ queries.

Lok Satta Times October 16th-31st, 2013

Lok Satta Times October 16th-31st, 2013 can be downloaded from the following link.

http://www.loksatta.org/cms/documents/lstimes/lstimes-2013-10-16-31.pdf

నా అన్నదమ్ముల్లో ఒకరినే ఎంచుకోవాల్సిన నిర్బంధం నాకెందుకు? తెలుగు ప్రజలకు జయప్రకాష్ నారాయణ్ బహిరంగ లేఖ

Dr.JP calls for dialogue among Telugus to arrive at consensus

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash NarayanI today appealed to Telugus across Telangana and Seemandhra regions not to drown out each other’s voices that give vent to the desire for a separate State on the one hand and anguish over the State being cleaved on the other.

“It is supremely important to respect each other’s desires and it is our bounden duty to make them come true. And we know it can be done.”

Dr. JP asked people to realize that “the Congress Party is hell bent on subverting any peaceful solution for Telugus in favour of its own vested electoral interests. Through “its reckless and undemocratic methods” in conceding the legitimate demand for Telangana Statehood, the Congress has undermined. the federal structure. “The Congress will go down in history as having the singular distinction of not only derailing the country's economy, but also its democracy.”

In an open letter addressed to Telugu people, Dr. JP asked in anguish why he should be forced to choose between brothers in the glorious Telugu family. Why should one region burn today and the other tomorrow?

Dr. JP said he hears both voices – the one demanding statehood for Telangana and the other expressing anguish over the State’s bifurcation. The demand for Telangana, which was expressed in hushed tones decades ago, has become a powerful boom. “Although the voice has been politically manipulated repeatedly, it is still the people's voice. The people have expressed their desire in election after election in Telangana. It must, therefore, be accorded due legitimacy.”

Dr. JP said he is also witness to the tear-stained faces of Seemandhra people, their hearts bleeding over the division of the State. “Although, there is no dearth of political instigation here also, their emotion is real and must be duly recognized.”

Against such a backdrop, Dr. JP asked why there should be winners and losers within the family and why he should be forced to choose between the two brothers. This is not a zero sum game.

Dr. JP underlined that at Lok Satta leaders of tall stature from both Telangana and Seemandhra sit across the table and talk to each other about reconciling the legitimate demands of both sides because they believe in internal democracy.

Pointing out that the true meaning of democracy is to reconcile conflicting interests. Dr. JP challenged the Congress party to do it in the context of Andhra Pradesh. He said the Congress has no moral right to govern this country since it has demonstrated its incapacity in doing it.

“Everyone knows that when a State, created on the basis of language, is sought to be divided, that too when division involves a region with one of the biggest cities in the country and an economic hub, there is complexity. The pain and anguish caused can be imagined.”

Yet, the Congress Party acted in a reckless and undemocratic manner in conceding the legitimate demand for Telangana Statehood. It patently undermines the federal structure.

The Congress methods have “resulted in a conflict between an immovable object and an irresistible force. The way this anger is boiling over today, it can affect national unity and that is the worst the Congress could do to our country. The Congress will go down in history as having the singular distinction of not only derailing the country's economy, but also its federalism and democracy. These approaches remind us of the days of Emergency when the whole nation was converted into a jail, liberty was extinguished, and States’ rights were violated with contempt”.

Dr.JP recalled that our founding fathers' tryst with destiny led to the integration of the entire country without a single drop of blood being spilled. “Today, the Congress Party has made a farce of that legacy by staunchly refusing to build a consensus between the Telangana and Seemandhra stake-holders. Instead, it glibly plays hate politics and electoral games, watching idly as the State burns. Their current methods are totally unacceptable.”

“We are a federal republic. Parliament cannot ride roughshod over a State. I've begged so many times for this topic to be discussed.”

గద్దెపై ఏ గాడిదను కూర్చోబెట్టడానికి..?

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

ఢిల్లీలో ఉంది ప్రభుత్వమా? ప్రైవేటు కంపెనీయా?

Courtesy: Eenadu

రావూరి మృతి తెలుగు రచనారంగానికి పెద్ద లోటు - జేపీ నివాళి

20న ఢిల్లీలో వివేకానంద యువసమ్మేళనానుద్దేశించి జేపీ ప్రసంగం

నిరంకుశ, నిర్లక్ష్య కేంద్రమంత్రుల బృందాన్ని బహిష్కరిస్తున్నాం. అన్ని ప్రతిపక్షాలూ కలిసిరావాలి: లోక్ సత్తా విజ్ఞప్తి

Lok Satta to boycott GoM on State bifurcation

The Lok Satta Party has decided to boycott the Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted by the Union Cabinet on the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and called upon other political parties to follow suit.

State Lok Satta Party President Katari Srinivasa Rao announced the decision taken by the party's State Working Committee earlier today at a media conference.

Mr.Srinivasa Rao recalled that the Lok Satta has all along maintained that it would welcome formation of Telangana as part of a comprehensive and amicable solution. Far from working out such a solution, the Congress Party has viewed State bifurcation as a party issue with an eye on votes and seats in the next general election. When an agitation erupted in Seemandhra, the Congress appointed the A. K. Antony committee instead of a parliamentary committee or a committee of Union Ministers. The Lok Satta had set an example by rejecting the Antony committee.

The Center's egoistic, dictatorial, incompetent and immature handling of a delicate subject runs counter to the country's federal structure and threatens national unity, said Mr.Srinivasa Rao. That is why the Lok Satta has decided to boycott the GoM.

Mr.Srinivasa Rao recalled that when the State was rocked by agitations for a separate Telangana during 1969-70 and a separate Andhra during 1972-73, Union Government representatives held comprehensive discussions with State representatives for months and hammered out solutions. In contrast, the present GoM has called upon people to convey their views via emails instead of holding discussions with all sections of people in all regions although the subject involved the very existence of a large State and that too the first to be carved out on linguistic basis.

The methods of working chosen by the GoM dent the federal character of the country and widen the chasm between people of different regions.

If the Government of India realizes its folly and initiates comprehensive discussions with all sections of people with a sincere desire to find an amicable solution, the Lok Satta will have no hesitation in joining hands.

Mr. K. Omkar, Vice President, Mr. P. Ravi Maruth, General Secretary and Mr. N. Ravinder, Secretary, took part in the media conference.

The State’s future should be decided on Telugu soil: Dr. JP

“When feelings are running high on both sides, Andhra Pradesh can neither be bifurcated nor kept united forcibly. In such a situation, the Union Government should not take any decision arbitrarily as in a monarchy, foist it on the State and dent the federal set-up in the process.”

That was what LokSatta Party national President Dr.Jayaprakash Narayan told a delegation of Andhra Pradesh RashtraParirakshanaVedika which called on him today at the party headquarters.

Dr. JP reiterated the party stand that it would welcome formation of Telangana as part of a comprehensive and amicable solution. The LokSatta Party is opposed to the Center imposing its decision in a dictatorial manner and fanning regional animosities without working out a comprehensive and amicable solution.

Pointing out that States are not municipalities but enjoy an equal status with the Center, Dr. JP said that the Center cannot take the Assembly for granted and ask people to convey their views by email. Such a stance is unconstitutional and harms the federal set-up.

Dr. JP recalled that immensely popular Jawaharlal Nehru and strong Indira Gandhi took decisions by respecting popular sentiments. Even a dictator like Stalin of the erstwhile Soviet Union dared not undo the States. How can a Center which cannot interfere in a State’s domain beyond a point unilaterally decide on the very existence of a State, Dr. JP asked.

The question whether Andhra Pradesh should be dividedinto two or three States or some other r arrangement has to be made must be settled on Telugu soil. If it can, the Center should facilitate such a dialogue and help in arriving at a comprehensive and amicable solution, said Dr. JP.

LokSatta Party State President Katari Srinivasa Rao took part in the meeting.

According to Vedika Coordinator V. Lakshmana Reddy, Dr JP pledged his party’s support to any attempt aimed at safeguarding the federal set-up.

Dr. JP demands withdrawal of case against P. C. Parakh

LokSatta Party national President Dr.Jayaprakash Narayan today expressed his indignation over the CBI registering a case of criminal conspiracy against Mr. P. C. Parakh, a blemishless former IAS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, in the coal scam.

Dr. JP, himself a former IAS officer and member of the Administrative Reforms Commission, demanded that the CBI revoke its foolish decision straightway since it undermines people’s faith in criminal investigation and threatens the very existence of the CBI

Talking to media persons who called on him, Dr. JP recalled that the LokSatta has been in the forefront in demanding autonomy for institutions like the CBI and ACB, prompt investigation into corruption cases and swift and stringent punishment of the guilty including confiscation of their ill-gotten wealth. But the CBI action runs counter to the recommendations of the Administrative Reforms Commission. Autonomy for an institution like the CBI does not mean license to do whatever it wants to do without being accountable.

Dr. JP pointed out that allocation of coal mines as per the prevailing policy without indulging in corruption cannot be construed as conspiracy. Mr.Parakh allocated the coal mine jointly to first applicant Hindalco and two public sector undertakings for captive mining.

Dr. JP recalled that the LokSatta has all along demanded that scarce natural resources like coal and iron ore be allocated only through open, competitive bidding to give no scope for nepotism and corruption. When all others demanded punishment of Mr.A. M. Raja, then Union Telecom Minister and others guilty of arbitrary allocation of 2-G spectrum licenses, only the LokSatta in association with some prominent citizens approached the Supreme Court and succeeded in getting the licenses cancelled and paved way for allocation of scare resources through competitive bidding.

Officials who allocate mines as per the existing policy without indulging in corruption cannot be accused of conspiracy by anybody, Dr. JP said.

Dr. JP demanded that the Central Vigilance Commission which has jurisdiction over the CBI should intervene in the false case against Mr.Parakh forthwith. He also wanted immediate ushering in of the policy of allocating sparse natural resources through competitive bidding. Steps should be taken to facilitate immediate mining of coal from blocks which had been allocated transparently without any taint of corruption.

Dr. JP said he would write to the CVC seeking action against CBI officials who foisted the case of conspiracy against Mr.Parakh, reputed for his probity.

పారఖ్ పై కేసు సీబీఐ మూర్ఖపు చర్య, వెంటనే వెనక్కి తీసుకోవాలి. జోక్యం కోసం సీవీసీకి లేఖ రాస్తా: జేపీ

రాష్ట్రం ఉనికికి సంబంధించిన నిర్ణయం సంప్రదింపులతో తెలుగునేల మీదే తేలాలి: లోక్ సత్తా

Lok Satta Times Oct 1st-15th, 2013

Lok Satta Times Oct 1st-15th, 2013 can be downloaded from the following link.

http://www.loksatta.org/cms/documents/lstimes/lstimes-2013-10-01-15.pdf

Lok Satta Times Sep 16th-30th, 2013

Lok Satta Times Sep 16th-30th, 2013 can be downloaded from the following link.

http://www.loksatta.org/cms/documents/lstimes/lstimes-2013-09-16-30.pdf

పెనుతుపాను గండం దృష్ట్యా విద్యుత్ ఉద్యోగుల్లాగే పారిశుద్ధ్య, వైద్యారోగ్య సిబ్బందీ సమ్మె విరమించాలి: జేపీ విజ్ఞప్తి

Call off strike in view of cyclone threat, Dr. JP appeals to essential service staff

LokSatta Party national President Dr.Jayaprakash Narayan today appealed to Government employees in medical, public health and other essential services in Seemandhra region to emulate their counterparts in electricity utilities and call off their strike in view of the grave threat posed by cyclone Phailin.

In a media statement, Dr. JP said that Andhra Pradesh NGOs have succeeded in drawing attention of all including those in Delhi to their fears and anxieties over the proposed State bifurcation through varied actions spread over more than two months.

Dr. JP asked them to end their strike considering the untold hardships people have been going through because of the breakdown of sanitary conditions and outbreak of infectious diseases and the impending natural calamity and the festive season.

శ్రీహరి మృతి పట్ల లోక్ సత్తా తీవ్ర విచారం

విద్య, ఉపాధి అవకాశాలతోనే మార్పు

Courtesy: Eenadu

సురాజ్య ఉద్యమం వెబ్ సైట్ ప్రారంభం

Courtesy: Andhra Jyothy

9న సురాజ్య ఉద్యమ వెబ్ పోర్టల్ ప్రారంభం

Surajya Movement’s Web Portal Launch on 9th

Towards achieving its objectives of youth empowerment and good governance, Surajya movement is launching a web portal on 9th October at 3.45 p.m. in Prasads IMAX first floor. The web portal will act as a facilitator for the socially conscious, patriotic youngsters to discuss, coordinate and take initiatives for building a better India.

Surajya Movement Steering Committee Convener & Lok Satta party president Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, Margadarsi Managing Director Smt. Sailaja Kiron, AMR-APARD Director General Chandramouli (IAS., Retd.), Surajya Steering Committee members & youth will participate in the inauguration of web portal.

At the same premises, Surajya Photo Exhibition, ‘Our Villages…Bright & Dark Sides’ will be open to public from 5PM to 9PM.

లోక్ సత్తా పార్టీ కృష్ణా జిల్లా అధ్యక్షుడు మృతి పట్ల జేపీ దిగ్భ్రాంతి

ఉగ్రవాద దాడుల్ని నివారించిన పోలీసులకు జేపీ అభినందనలు

Dr. JP congratulates police on nabbing ‘terrorists’

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today congratulated the Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu police on preventing terrorist strikes by taking into custody suspected terrorists at Puttoor in Chittoor district.

Dr. JP said that the police attract a lot of flak when they fail to prevent a terrorist attack. But in many cases they succeed in foiling terrorist designs by staking even their lives. Nearly 1000 police personnel die every year in our country in the discharge of their duties.

Dr. JP demanded that the police force be modernized at a fast pace with provision of latest technology and equipment, better transport and quality training. The police should be provided autonomy and insulated from political interference.

Dr. JP said that the police should be strengthened to ensure safety and security for citizens and maintenance of rule of law.

చేతులు కాలాకైనా రాజనీతిజ్ఞతను ప్రదర్శించండి - కేంద్రానికి, పార్టీలకు జేపీ విజ్ఞప్తి

Display Statesmanship, Dr.JP Tells Center and Parties

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today appealed to the Union Government and national parties to set aside electoral considerations and strive to resolve the crisis in Andhra Pradesh at least now.

They should appreciate that Telangana and Seemandhra cannot be kept united or separated forcibly. As Abraham Lincoln said, public opinion is everything. Without it nothing can be done and with it there is little that cannot be done.

Addressing a media conference, Dr. JP said the Union Cabinet need not have wasted 64 days merely to endorse what the Congress Working Committee had decided on July 30 on the formation of Telangana. It ought to have utilized the interregnum to hold discussions with all stakeholders and harmonized the conflicting interests among people of the three regions of the State.

Dr. JP pointed out that while people in Telangana ardently demand self-rule those in Seemandhra are genuinely haunted by fears of insecurity. The Center has merely displayed complacency, lack of will and incompetence in recognizing the ground realities. When an immovable object meets with an irresistible force, disaster becomes inevitable. Far from recognizing this, the Union Government is staging a political drama keeping its sights on votes and seats in elections.

Dr. JP said the need of the hour is statesmanship and recalled how Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel integrated 562 princely States with the Indian Union peacefully with his foresight, tact, diplomacy, patience and restraint. In contrast, our present day rulers are living up to the maxim that fools rush in where angels fear to tread.

Dr. JP appealed to intellectuals, youth and media as also all political parties in the State to realize that no problem is intractable if they display sincerity and restraint. Asking people to set aside passions and refrain from violence, he told them that they should not cut the nose to spite the face.

Dr. JP said that the Lok Satta Party would do its best to douse the fires and help promote a solution that gives comfort or causes equal dissatisfaction among all stakeholders. Although past sins cast long shadows, it is never too late to retrieve the situation, said Dr. JP. Otherwise, there is the danger of Andhra Pradesh degenerating into another Lebanon or Somalia or Kashmir. He expressed the hope that the Union Cabinet Committee on the State’s bifurcation will sincerely and find solutions based on facts and logic.

State Lok Satta Party President Katari Srinivasa Rao, Vice Presidents D. V. V. S. Varma and Bandaru Ramamohan Rao and Secretary Nandipeta Ravinder took part in the media conference.

విలువలతో కూడిన నాయకత్వంపై టాటా గ్రూప్ సీఈవోలనుద్దేశించి జేపీ ప్రసంగం

Dr.JP to address Tata group CEOs on values-based leadership

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan will be addressing participants in Tata Ethics Conclave - 2013 at Vivanta by Taj President in Mumbai on October 4 on ‘Values-based leadership.’

Senior business leaders and CEOs of Tata group companies take part in the annual event. It provides a platform for participants to learn from emerging ethics practices.

On October 5, Dr. JP will be addressing the third MTC Global Annual Convention at Aravali Gurukul Ashram, Kaparda, in Jodhpur district of Rajasthan on ‘21st century economics in 19th century politics.’

The Aravali Institute of Management and Management Teachers’ Consortium are organizing the convention with focus on management education for the future.

కన్నుకు కన్ను అంటే అందరం గుడ్డివారమవుతామని తెలుగు ప్రజలు గ్రహించాలి: జేపీ

Dr.JP counsels Telugu people to realize ‘An eye for an eye makes all of us blind’

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today appealed to people engaged in a fight for and against Telangana to remember Mahatma Gandhi’s adage that “An eye for an eye makes all of us blind” and resolve to work harmoniously to find a solution.

In a message to people on Gandhi’s birth anniversary, Dr. JP said that “restraint, reconciliation, responsibility and respect are the foundations of a harmonious society. That is Gandhi’s way. Hating each other, using harsh language, imitating the worst features of each other – they are not Gandhi’s way.”

On the occasion of the birth anniversaries of Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Sastri, and the Lok Satta Party formation day, Dr.JP and the Party state president Katari Srinivasa Rao unfurled the national and Lok Satta Party flags and garlanded portraits of Gandhi and Ambedkar.

Dr. JP recalled Gandhi’s contention that the best way of getting justice is rendering justice to the adversary and asked whether our parties and leaders are practicing it. “We all need to introspect – do we have the moral right to pay tribute to Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri?

Dr. JP pointed out that intolerance, lies, failure to render justice to others, rousing fears and blaming others for our problems have all led to the Andhra Pradesh crisis.

“Whatever happens, we are all Telugus and Indians. Where are spiritual leaders? Where are artists and writers? Why are they silent?

“Gurus, saints, stars, writers – please speak up. Do not take sides on politics & division of the State.”

All of them should remind people that we all share a language and culture, and promote harmony and reconciliation. “Whatever happens, we will remain a family, and we share a common destiny. Politics should not promote hatred. Transcending politics and irrespective of the final outcome, the wise, learned and talented Telugus should spread this message.”

Two pledges

Recalling that Gandhi always sought full employment to empower citizens and give them dignity, Dr. JP said the need of the hour in India is job creation. While China created at its peak 200 million jobs in industry in 20 years, India created just two million jobs in 20 years.

By taking two pledges on the occasion of Gandhi’s birthday, Dr. JP said, we can build an India of Gandhi’s dreams. First, we shall not buy gold at all. If we must, we will buy 50% of what we plan. Second, those of us whose basic needs are met will give 10% of our income and time for charity and community.

“If we reduce gold demand, and give 10% of what we have for the community, we all prosper; the nation prospers. We need to modernize and adapt Gandhi’s message to suit our needs today. Let us do simple, practical things every day.”

“If gold import is stopped, we will have no current account deficit. If we cannot curb gold demand, we cannot build India. Gold does not fulfill any real need. We have 30000 tons of gold in India – the world’s largest reserve. We still import 1000 MT a year! What is needed for ornaments and weddings can be met by internal market. A lot of gold is lying idle. Available gold with people is enough to give 100 grams to every family! Our gold needs can be met without imports. If we cannot promote self-reliance even in a commodity like gold, which we cannot really use, we have no right to invoke Gandhi.”

Dr. JP said that to fulfill the second pledge of giving 10% of our income and time for charity and community “We don’t have to deprive or starve our families.”

“When our children inherit our assets, let 90% go to them, and 10% to society in some form. Family comes first. But society comes next. Let our 10% income, time and assets build the community – library, park, school, hospital, museum. Our time can go to volunteer to teach, manage traffic, fight fires, maintain parks or graveyards.

“We build a nation when our personal growth and public good go together. Let us begin in simple things every day.”

Lok Satta Party leaders DVVS Varma, Bandaru Rammohana Rao, N.Saroja devi, Dosapati Ramu, E.Chennaiah, P. Ravimaruth and large number of cadre took part in the programme.

రాజకీయాల్ని మార్చటంలో కీలకపాత్ర పోషిస్తున్న లోక్ సత్తా: జేపీ

Dr. JP recalls Lok Satta’s stellar role in transforming politics

No other civil society movement or political party has achieved so much in so short a time as the Lok Satta in transforming politics in India, asserted Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today. “Yet, we have miles to go for realizing our goal of good politics and good governance,” he added.

Addressing media to mark the seventh anniversary of the party, Dr. JP pointed out that the Lok Satta was largely responsible for adoption of three Constitutional amendments by Parliament. The 91st amendment to the Constitution imposing a ceiling on the number of Ministers at the Center and in States, the 97th amendment providing for autonomy to cooperatives, and the 120th amendment facilitating formation of a Judicial Appointments Commission are all the results of Lok Satta efforts.

The Lok Satta was also instrumental in the adoption of laws providing for disclosure of assets and liabilities and criminal antecedents of electoral contestants, formation of local courts, political funding law and right to information. Its initiatives for laws on guaranteeing service to citizens and formation of an Indian Judicial Service will bear fruit shortly.

Recalling Lok Satta’s efforts to go to the rescue of the farmer, Dr. JP said it has succeeded in persuading the Union Government to permit export of food grains and impose customs duty on import of edible oils. It has ensured a better price for AP paddy by fighting against illegal restrictions on its movement outside the State. It is fighting on behalf of farmers for the promotion of genetically modified crops.

Dr. JP said the distinction for electing office-bearers through secret ballot for the first time in decades in Indian history goes to the Lok Satta Party.

A lot more remains to be done to transform our politics, governance and economy. Proportional representation system, strong and empowered local governments, independent and effective anti-corruption institutions, and service guarantees law are the most important changes required to make our politics an instrument to improve the lot of the people. Lok Satta is dedicated to creating new politics to a new generation of Indians, and will pursue these goals steadfastly over the next few years, Dr JP said.

Dr. JP appealed to youth, women, farmers, middle classes and self-employed people to be in the forefront in the fight for good governance and economic prosperity. The Lok Satta Party has launched the Surajya movement to demand among other things quality education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities for all, decentralization of administration, provision of Government services as a matter of right and strong institutional mechanisms for eradicating corruption.

Dr. JP said he has no doubt that in the next five to 10 years politics will undergo a transformation for the better because of the awakening among youth, rise of the middle class and the impact of the media.

Dr. JP said the party would decide on its 2014 general election strategy at the party’s General Council meeting in Hyderabad on October 19. The council will debate whether it should contest in all seats or concentrate in select seats and whether it should enter into alliances and if so with whom. The Lok Satta, he said, is conscious of its limitations: First it is short of resources since it does not believe in collecting black money. Second, it does not divide people on the basis of caste and religion, region and language. Third, it has to contend with parties whose agendas and methods are entirely different. And finally, Lok Satta wants to pursue ethical politics and opposes vote buying and short-term freebies.

He disclosed that the Lok Satta Party has decided to extend unconditional support to the Aam Aadmi Party in the Delhi elections.

Replying to a question on formation of Telangana State, Dr. JP said the Lok Satta stood for an amicable, comprehensive and permanent solution. Whether the State is divided or kept united, the concerns of aggrieved people should be addressed and resolved. Dr. JP pointed out that protagonists on either side of the current great divide have roused false hopes and fuelled unnecessary fears. Formation of a separate State will neither be a panacea nor a catastrophe, he added.

State Lok Satta Party President Katari Srinivasa Rao recalled the Lok Satta fought against malpractices at petrol bunks and facilitated easy enrolment of voters. The Lok Satta played a key role in the launch of the National Rural Health Mission, cancellation of the 2 G spectrum licenses, thwarting of the move to provide immunity to convicted legislators from being disqualified, and the Nirbahaya law enactment.

Lok Satta Party leaders D. V. V. S. Varma, Ravi Maruth, N. Saroja Devi, P. Sivaji and Dosapati Ramu took part in the get-together with the media.