Security checking in Kuwait, many including Keralites in agony

NEW DELHI: Many including Keralites in Kuwait are having a tough time   following a raid conducted as part of security checking. Almost thousands have been arrested so far in the raid conducted by the government. Those arrested were staying in Kuwait illegally without valid documents. Raids are continuing in various parts of the country.

The inspection campaigns are being conducted as per the directive of Ahmadi Security Directorate Major General. Authorities in civil police dress arrested many including Keralites and sent them to jail.

25 Keralites of the arrested have been sent back to India. The flight from Sharjah reached Delhi Friday afternoon. The returned complained that they were neither provided food nor water till they reached here. They said they don’t have a single penny to reach home and many more Keralites are still in jail.

Meantime, government authorities said people were arrested as they were staying without valid documents, some were doing business illegally and some involved in crimes. Authorities hinted that steps will be taken against those involved in cases.

Minister K C Joseph said the Keralites who reached Delhi from Kuwait will be sent to their native places in government’s expense.  Arrangements will be made to accommodate them in the Kerala House. He blamed the Kuwait government for not informing them about their return.

P Jayarajan justifies verbal abuse

KANNUR: CPM leader P Jayarajan said there is nothing wrong in verbally abusing Northern Range IG Jose George IPS. He abused the officer by calling him ‘Erappan’ which means ‘beggar’ and ‘poor’.

Jayarajan said these two words will suit the IG.

HC allows Suryanelli case victim to choose lawyer

KOCHI: Kerala High Court Thursday permitted the victim in the Suryanelli sex scandal to engage a lawyer of her choice to assist prosecution in the appeals in the two decade old case.

A division bench comprising Justices K T Sankaran and M L Joseph Francis, hearing appeals by the convicts in the case, allowed the victim's plea to engage a counsel to assist the prosecution.

Earlier, the woman's petition seeking to appoint special prosecutors was rejected by the high court.

She complained that even at this point of time, main arguments of the accused centre around her character and conduct and she should be given an opportunity to counter the attack and aspersions on her character.

Considering this plea, the bench permitted the victim to engage a counsel to assist the prosecution.

The sex scandal took place in Suryanelli in Idukki district on January 1996. The victim, then a 16-year-old, was threatened, abducted and abused by a bus conductor and was later confined and sexually assaulted for 45 days by 42 men.

The Supreme Court on January 31 set aside the Kerala High Court order that acquitted 35 persons who were convicted by a special court in September 2000. It also ordered the high court to conduct a re-trial in the case.

Phones of Chennithala, Thiruvanchoor tapped, says Sukumaran Nair

PERUNNA: After raising allegation that the community leaders’ phones including his were tapped, NSS General Secretary G. Sukumaran Nair on Thursday alleged that the phones of KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala and Home Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan were also tapped.

He was talking to media persons here. He said that he had lodged a complaint for unofficially tapping his phone. There should have been a scientific probe rather than a probe by the police, he said.

“What is going to happen to Ramesh Chennithala is what that had happened to A.K. Antony and K. Karunakaran. The co-operation between the NSS and the Congress has ended because Congress continues its deceitful stance. Congress has sabotaged the election agreement,” Nair said.

Sukamaran Nair said he cannot reveal now the stance of NSS at the time of lok-sabha election. NSS will remain a pressurizing group.

He said the turmoil within the UDF would end in 5 minutes if Chief Minister wants it to. If the 12 MLAs who received help from NSS have allegiance to NSS they should disclose their stance, he said.

“NSS has not demanded any posts. Community members should resign from government posts. Or else they should resign as members of NSS,” Sukumaran Nair said.

He also said that the unity between NSS and SNDP will continue.

Kozhikode Medical College loses 50 seats


KOZHIKODE: The Indian Medical Council cancelled the recognition of 50 MBBS temporary seats at Kozhikode Medical College on Friday for the lack of doctors and nurses, lack of facilities in class rooms, inadequate number of books in library, and lack of hostel facilities.

Self-financing medical exam: Police clash with SFI activists


KOZHIKODE: The police Friday clashed with the SFI and AISF activists who staged a march to Kozhikode MES Raja Residential School where exams are being held for management seats in nine self-financing private medical colleges. The march was staged in protest against the leakage of question papers by the managements.

The police blocked the march in front of the school.  Stones were pelted at the police when they tried to remove the protestors shouting slogans in front of the school. The police resorted to lathicharge and used tear gas. The students who refused to leave the place continued pelting stones at the police. The glasses of the jeep were smashed. Students arrested clashed with the police inside the vehicle.

ADGP to probe arrest of Amway chief

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: N Shanker Reddy, Additional Director-General of Police (ADGP), north zone, will probe the arrest of Amway India Chief William Scott Pinckney by the Kozhikode crime branch, said Home Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan. Union Minister Sachin Pilot had termed the arrest as unfortunate.

It was noticed that the arrest of Pinckney was comparatively a minor incident. It will be examined. Steps will be taken against organisations involved in misappropriation, said the minister. But the move of the police should be legal, directed the home minister.

Developments are shocking and disappointing, says Sachin

NEW DELHI: Breaking his silence on the raging spot-fixing scandal, Sachin Tendulkar Friday said that the developments of the last two weeks were "shocking and disappointing" and the faith reposed by the millions of fans in the game should be justified.
Tendulkar said the authorities must take sincere steps to get to the root of the issue and ensure that credibility of the game is restored.

The champion batsman, who retired from IPL after his side Mumbai Indians won the title recently, said as a cricketer he has always learnt to play in the true spirit of the game.

"It has always hurt me when the game of cricket is in the news for the wrong reasons. The developments in the last two weeks have been shocking and disappointing. As cricketers we are always taught to go out, fight hard, give our very best and play in the true spirit of the game," Tendulkar said in a statement.

The milestone man of Indian cricket said it was important that the authorities get to the root of the problem.

"During this difficult phase, I join every cricketer, from the boys in the maidans across the country to those who represent clubs, states and the country, who trust the authorities to take sincere steps to get to the root of the issue.

"The faith reposed by the millions of fans should be justified and we owe it to them to ensure that Indian cricket is all about pride and joy," the statement added.

Tendulkar's statement on the spot-fixing scandal assumes great importance since none of the current Indian cricketers have spoken on the issue, since it broke out about two weeks ago.

Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has steadfastly refused to speak on the scandal, apparently under a gag order from the BCCI.

Dhoni evaded questions on spot-fixing at the pre-departure press conference in Mumbai on Tuesday and also did the same at the media interaction in Birmingham yesterday ahead of Champions Trophy.

The only thing Dhoni said at the press conference in Birmingham was that Indian cricket's reputation was not "gone" and that some people were "slightly mentally weak" compared to others. He said that he will speak when the time was right.

With more and more cricket boards and state unit officials coming out in the open against BCCI President N Srinivasan's continuance over the last few days, it will be interesting to see whether more cricketers also start giving their views, taking a cue from Tendulkar.

High command directs to solve issues

NEW DELHI: The congress high command has directed the state leadership to solve the problems of the UDF in the state itself. Sources said the high command will intervene only if the state leadership is unable to solve the problems.

Spot-fixing: Cash paid to Sreesanth traced in Mumbai

NEW DELHI: Delhi Police Thursday claimed to have recovered Rs 5.5 lakh, which was part of the Rs 10 lakhs allegedly paid to cricketer Sreesanth for spot-fixing in an IPL match, from Mumbai.

The recovery was made in Mumbai at the instance of Abhishek Shukla, who was arrested for allegedly removing money and articles of Sreesanth soon after the cricketer's arrest in May 16.

Police sources said this recovery completes the money trail of Sreesanth.

Of the Rs 10 lakhs, Mumbai Police had recovered Rs 75,000 while Delhi Police claims it has evidence of Sreesanth spending around Rs 3.75 lakh for purchases and parties.

Police had taken Shukla, an event manager, to Mumbai yesterday for recovery.

Shukla has been charged under section 201 (causing disappearance of evidence) and taken to Mumbai for recovery of articles and money owned by Sreesanth which he had hidden, sources said.

"We have accounted for Rs 5 lakh out of the Rs 10 lakh Sreesanth got for alleged spot-fixing. Shukla has allegedly hidden the remaining amount belonging to Sreesanth as well as Jiju Janardhan, the cricketer's friend.

"Soon after Sreesanth's arrest, Jiju made a call to Shukla asking to clean up Sreesanth's room," the official said.

Rajeev Pillai was with Sreesanth at time of arrest, says police

NEW DELHI: The police Tuesday informed the Delhi Saket Court that Rajeev Pillai, actor and player of Kerala Strikers Team of Celebrity Cricket League, was with S Sreesanth at the time of his arrest in the spot fixing case. The police told the court that it was Rajeev who informed Jiju Janardhanan, the arrest of Sreesanth as per our direction. Rajeev Pillai is a relative of Sreesanth.

Soon after the arrest of Sreesanth, Jiju asked one Abhishek Shukla to remove the things from the former’s room. It was after that Jiju appeared before the police. Abhishek was arrested this morning.

Meantime, Rajeev Pillai said that he went to Mumbai to act in a film and that he doesn’t have any relation with the bookies. I was with Sreesanth at the time of his arrest. I went for film discussions and the police left me when I told him that I am an actor. I called Jiju from my phone as per the instructions of the police, he said.

Chandy facing fallout of placating communal forces, says VS

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Mounting a scathing attack on the Congress-led UDF Government in Kerala, CPI (M) veteran and opposition leader V S Achuthanandan Tuesday said Chief Minister Oommen Chandy was suffering the consequences of placating communal and casteist forces for power.

"Chandy has been placating communal and casteist forces of different kinds in an opportunistic manner to secure and retain power. The same forces that once supported him are now turning against him," VS said while talking on "contemporary Kerala politics and development" organised by the Press Club here.

The Marxist veteran was referring to intensification of attack on the Chandy Government by influential community outfits like NSS and SNDP Yogam.

To a question, Achuthanandan said he agreed with the view that these organisations, founded as part of social reform movement last century, were crossing limits by meddling in politics.

Referring to the strife in the state unit of the Congress over the issue of giving ministerial berth to KPCC president Ramesh Chennithala, Achuthanandan said the UDF gave the image of a "house haunted by death."

He said on the development front also the government had been a total failure as none of the major pending projects had made any progress in the last two years.

On the ongoing row over the lease of Cochin Port Trust land to NRI businessman Yusuf Ali, Achuthanandan said he stuck to his view that there was nothing irregular about it though some of his party colleagues held a different view on the matter.

Politicians slam Priyadarshan for remark on Malayalam film industry

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:  Well-known filmmaker Priyadarshan Tuesday drew flak for saying that the Malayalam film industry is in shambles and it doesn't have any minister to manage it.

Priyadarshan made the statement at the annual state film award function, organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and the filmmaker is the chairman of the body.

Ever since K.B. Ganesh Kumar resigned as state minister for cinema on April 14 after his wife complained of domestic violence against him, the portfolio is now being looked after by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy who was present at the event.

"Who is Priyadarshan to make such a callous statement? That portfolio is being handled by the chief minister now and he says that the cinema department is rudderless. Priyadarshan should quit as chairman because he insulted the chief minister," Kerala government Chief Whip P.C. George told IANS.

"It was good that I was not present at that meeting. Had I been there, he would have seen my true colours," he added.

It is said that Priyadarshan and Ganesh Kumar are close friends and in his speech the filmmaker said that the film industry would be grateful if the chief minister will give them a minister like Ganesh, if not Ganesh himself. This remark has irked the politicians.

K. Muraleedharan, former State Congress state president and son of K. Karunakaran, said the Congress-led United Democratic Front will decide on the ministership and not Priyadarshan.

"I have told the state Congress president that before a decision is made, the Congress party and the Government coordination committee should meet. I have my opinion on that and I will speak about it there," Muraleedharan told reporters here on Tuesday.

Chennithala may become Deputy Chief Minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ending the infighting within the Congress party in Kerala over the issue of offering portfolio to KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala, a consensus have been reached on Tuesday night after Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Ramesh Chennithala held talks at KPCC Office here.

Chennithala is likely to be offered Deputy CM post along with a department other than Home Ministry, most probably revenue.

However, decision was not taken on whether the Chief Minister will take over Home Ministry from Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan.

The decision to hand over Deputy CM post to Chennithala would be discussed with Congress High Command and constituent parties.

The ultimate decision is to be taken by High Command.

While Chandy did not want to take away Home Ministry from Thiruvanchoor, Chennithala disagreed with it.

The talks began at 9 pm and continued till 9.20.

P C George likely to resign if Ganesh made minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It is heard that Chief Whip P C George has threatened to resign his post if K B Ganesh Kumar, who resigned after allegations of domestic violence, is taken back in the cabinet. He has stated that if Ganesh is made the minister then his cooperation with the government will be completely stopped.

It is known that George has informed his decision to Kerala Congress (M) chairman K M Mani and some other UDF leaders. If that is so, then a tiff can be expected in the UDF.

Decision of George came soon after Kerala Congress (B) chairman R Balakrishna Pillai met the chief minister in connection with the re-entry of Ganesh. After knowing Pillai’s move, George informed his decision to some leaders.

George is against reinstating Ganesh. If taken back, Ganesh has expressed his dissatisfaction in continuing the post.

Meantime, many in the congress are against the entry of Ganesh. Even the allied parties oppose it. It is also hinted that even the chief minister has not taken a favourable stand on it. Chandy had informed Pillai that a decision can be taken only after discussing it in the UDF meet. Most probably, it will be discussed in the UDF meet to be convened on May 30.

Film personalities advice not needed for deciding minister, says Murali

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Film personalities advice is not needed for deciding a minister in the UDF, said K Muraleedharan MLA. He said after casting vote for the LDF, directors’ advice is not necessary to decide a minister in the UDF.

The UDF should hold discussions before taking a final decision in accommodating K B Ganesh Kumar. We have our own opinions and film personalities need not decide the minister, he said. Murali said this after meeting KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala.

VS says should encourage projects providing employment

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Opposition leader V S Achuthanandan said there is no change in the stand taken in connection with the Lulu and Bolgatty projects. He said one should encourage projects providing employment.  He reiterated his earlier stand that there was no breach of rules or law in the implementation of the Lulu Mall and Bolgatty projects.

Talking at the face to face programme organized by the Press Club, he said the then local administration minister Paloli Muhammed Kutty had made it clear that no law was breached. The project was implemented with the permission of the cabinet.

A project providing employment to almost 4000 people should not be shelved at any cost. VS directed to solve the disputes in connection with the project. There is no harm in raising new doubts on Lulu Project. If the doubts cleared are satisfactory, then can accept it, he said.

Murali in support of Chennithala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: K Muraleedharan came forward in support of KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala. He termed the whole incident as unjust. The same incident which happened to me earlier has now happened to Chennithala, he said. He sought the early intervention of the high command. Even though Chennithala has not lodged any complaint, there is no doubt that he is deeply saddened over the whole issue.

Meantime, the JSS has turned up against the UDF government. Even if Chennithala enters, the situation will be the same, said Gowri Amma.

Asif ali Wedding photos Marriage photos,



Kumari’s heart could not save Shinto


KOCHI: The life of Shinto Kuriakose (27) could not be saved even after heart transplantation. The heart transplantation was successfully performed at the Lissie Hospital in Ernakulam by Dr Jose ChackoPeriappuram. The heart of Kumari (59), who died of stroke, was transplanted to Shinto. 

The surgery was performed on May 16. He died after the functioning of his internal organs damaged. Shinto was a dialysis technician of Lissie Hospital.

Shukkur’s statement unfortunate: Antony


ALAPPUZHA: Defence Minister A.K. Antony on Saturday said that DCC President A. A. Shukkur’s statement aimed to tarnish the reputation of SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan and NSS General Secretary G. Sukumaran Nair was unfortunate.

Antony was responding to SNDP leader at Alappuzha Guest House while the latter complained to him about Shukkur’s statement. He told them that he would examine the issue.

Shukkur’s statement unfortunate: Antony


ALAPPUZHA: Defence Minister A.K. Antony on Saturday said that DCC President A. A. Shukkur’s statement aimed to tarnish the reputation of SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan and NSS General Secretary G. Sukumaran Nair was unfortunate.

Antony was responding to SNDP leader at Alappuzha Guest House while the latter complained to him about Shukkur’s statement. He told them that he would examine the issue.

Man held for abusing girls



KOTTAYAM:  Home Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan caught hold of a man who tried to abuse two girls in the middle of the road and handed him over to the police. The incident happened at Thuruthy near Changanassery. The man has been identified as Shashi, native of Chengannur.

Two Keralites drown in Dubai beach


DUBAI: Two Indian expatriate youths drowned while bathing in the sea near the Jumeirah Open Beach on Friday evening.

While the dead body of one of them has been found, the search for the body of the second person by the Coast Guard has been stopped due to the inclement weather.  

According to sources in the Al Reyami Group, where the two missing employees were working, a group of five staffers, all from the South Indian state of Kerala, had gone to the Jumeirah beach on Friday evening.

Of the three who survived, one person was reported to be in a critical condition.

The dead person’s name was Rijesh Puthiyapurayil who worked as an accountant in Al Riyami’s head office. His body is now kept in the police morgue.

The missing person’s name was Shinil Puthiyapurayil, 26, who hails from Payyannur near Kannur and worked in the building materials division of Al Riyami Group.

Three held for attacking couple in bus


MOOVATTUPUZHA:  The police Saturday arrested three persons for brutally assaulting a couple travelling in a KSRTC bus at the Muvattupuzha depot. The arrested has been identified as Shabareesh, Deepu and Sreejith.

The couple identified as Rejina and her husband Ismail Wahab was attacked by a six-member team in the bus while coming back after meeting their family friend. Wahab had to respond when a person started creating problems. For some time, he kept quiet. But when the bus reached Moovattupuzha depot, some persons got into the bus and attacked the couple.

Wahab is undergoing treatment for broken nose. Rejina too who sustained injuries are undergoing treatment at the Kolencherry Medical Mission Hospital. 

Pregnant woman dies in accident



VENJARAMOODU: A pregnant woman, who was undergoing treatment after sustaining injuries in an accident, died here Saturday. The accident happened on May 15 at Vettinadu when she was travelling with her husband in a bike. The woman has been identified as Sandhya (22), wife of Aji of Venjaramoodu. She was nine months pregnant. The baby taken out through a surgery died on May 16. Aji, who sustained serious injuries in the accident, is undergoing treatment at the medical college hospital.

Yusaf Ali withdraws from Bolgatty project


DUBAI: Noted entrepreneur Yusaf Ali decided to withdraw from taking over the Bolgatty Palace and the land in Kochi. Ali announcing his decision in Dubai, said that he is withdrawing from it following the controversy which broke out in the state.

He had obtained permission for the Lulu Mall in Edappally during the tenure of the previous LDF Government. He said that he is deeply saddened on the allegation raised by the CPM now.

Ali said that he has the proofs stating that the LDF granted permission for the project. Those having any doubts can examine the documents. I haven’t encroached any land, he said.  It is not necessary to encroach four to five cents for a company estimated to Rs 30,000 crores. He requested not to insult industrialists like him.

Ranjini Haridas jumped queue, says police


KOCHI: More evidences have been obtained against anchor Ranjini Haridas, who got into a tiff with an American Keralite for jumping a queue at the Nedumbassery Airport. More details have been obtained from the CCTV installed at the airport.

The police had the other day examined the video clippings. The incident happened after the team including Ranjini Haridas, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Mukhta, Arun Gopi and Asha Sharat landed at the airport after a show from US. The clippings showed Ranjini Haridas jumping the queue. The scuffle started soon after that.

Binoy from Ponkunnam questioned it and the clippings showed Ranjini touching him in between the verbal dispute. The court will soon file the charge sheet against Binoy and Ranjini. The police had taken the statements of both.

Kovalam Palce: Mutation done



THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Vizhinjam Village Office on Friday completed the mutation (pokkuvaravu) process of the 16 hectare land area including the Kovalam Halcyon Palace for R.P. Group of industrialist Ravi Pillai.

Dr. B. Ashok to be removed from position of VC


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state cabinet meet has decided to remove IAS officer Dr. B. Ashok from the position of Vice Chancellor of Veterinary University for publishing an article in Kerala Kaumudi daily on April 24 about Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sivagiri Mutt.

The decision taken by the previous cabinet meet will be conveyed to Kerala Governor who is also the Chancellor of the university. The Chief Secretary has been appointed for taking legal actions on this.

The cabinet meet held that Dr. B. Ashok violated all conditions laid by Governor, who is the Chancellor, for publishing any technical and literary works. Moreover, Ashok ridiculed political leaders and department heads in his article.

There will be no outbursts in Congress, says Antony

KANNUR: There are no problems in the congress which cannot be solved, said Defence Minister A K Antony. Talking to reporters here after holding talks with Congress leaders, he said nobody should expect an outburst in the congress.

I hope the problems of the state will be solved amicably. The congress leadership and the government are capable for that. The state leadership had earlier solved problems worse than this and if suppose the state leadership cannot solve it, then the central leadership will intervene.  Congress is not only a state party, he added.

It is quite natural that these types of problems occur, but in a grave situation like this, everybody will stand together and rectify it, he said.

'Invisible forces' trying to stall Kerala's progress: Kunhalikutty

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Industries and Information Technology Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty Thursday said some invisible forces were trying to stall the state's progress on all fronts but refused to identify them.

"Whenever any project, including even widening of roads, is announced, there is stiff resistance from certain quarters... The opposition in our state is by and large supportive of most projects," said Kunhalikutty.

"I do not want to spark a controversy by naming these forces. What we can do is to launch an awareness campaign to see that Kerala's progress in not stalled," said the minister.

Speaking to reporters, he said projects that faced opposition from the so-called invisible forces included the seaplane service which was ready for commissioning May 27.

By using small aircraft that land on water bodies, the project aims to provide an additional layer of transportation by offering last-mile connectivity to tourist destinations.

"Contrary to the fears raised by those who opposed the project, neither the environment nor any activity that is currently on (fishing) will have any problems," the minister said.

"We assure that development will take place by protecting the environment," added Kunhalikutty.

Vellappally receives death threat from Dubai

ALAPPUZHA: Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan on Thursday revealed that he has received death threat from Dubai via internet phone.

The person who phoned him told that he would be killed unless he stops criticizing Oommen Chandy and Ramesh Chennithala. He also used abusive words. Natesan hung up the phone without giving reply.

The person introduced himself as Sasikumar, a worker of SNDP’s UAE organization 'Sevanam'.

Natesan complained to the Mararikulam CI Subhash and the Cyber Cell started a probe which discovered that two earlier calls to Kerala from the number were made by Ramesh Chennithala’s nephew Sasikumar.

But CI Subhash said it was not sure that the call was made by Sasikumar. He added that the details of the Dubai number could not be traced. For this, the assistance of External Affairs Ministry would be sought, he said.

Meanwhile, Vellappally Natesan said that let the police find out the person behind the call.

Decision on Ganesh’s entry after discussions, says Chandy


KOLLAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said a decision on the entry of K B Ganesh Kumar will be taken after holding discussions.

Chandy said the UDF has entrusted him to hold discussions.

A final decision will be taken only after theat, he said.

Differences crop up between Hassan and Sudhakaran in Chennithala issue

KANNUR: Differences have cropped up between KPCC spokesperson M M Hassan and K Sudhakaran MP over the entry of KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala into the cabinet. Hassan said that those with Chennithala are misleading him. He said Chennithala should be included in the cabinet and the problem will be solved without the intervention of the high command itself.

Meantime, K Sudhakaran MP harshly criticized the statements of Hassan and said the issue turned worse due to many including Hassan. We never approached anybody to accommodate Chennithala into the cabinet. Those who held discussions to include Chennithala into the cabinet started the problems. Hassan and many others have a crucial role in that. ‘I’ group never demanded to make Chennithala a minister or a deputy chief minister.  He is one of the best KPCC presents India has seen.

No plus one admission for students passed CBSE school level exams

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court directed not to consider CBSE students who passed the tenth standard after writing the exams conducted by the respective school, for  plus one admissions. The court approved the guidelines moved by the government. The court ordered to continue the procedures for plus one admission.

Only students who studied in the state syllabus and those passed the CBSE board exam will get admissions for plus one. The state argued that if admissions are given to the CBSE students passed in the school level exams then it will badly affect the SSLC students.   

The CBSE are now conducting two exams-- school level and board exams. The government pointed out that students writing the school level exams are getting high marks as the evaluation are conducted in the respective schools.

Kalabhavan Mani surrenders, bail granted

THRISSUR: Actor Kalabhavan Mani, accused of assaulting two forest officers at Athirappilly, surrendered and was granted bail Friday afternoon. He surrendered at the Athirappilly police station by 1.30 pm.

He was produced before the Chalakudy First Class Judicial Magistrate Court after questioning. He was granted bail in a bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties for the same amount.

A complaint was lodged against the actor and his friend for assaulting forest officials on May 14 during a vehicle inspection.

Medical and Engineering Entrance Results available now entrance 2013 results announced.


The results of  Medical and Engineering Entrance Results announced today, excluding MBBS and BDS courses.In the medical stream, Gokul G Nair (Kasargod) bagged the first rank and Amar Babu (Kozhikode) the second rank. A Athila (Malappuram) won the third rank. 74,226 students were eligible for engineering course and 51559 for the medical course.



 For results visit:
www.cee.kerala.gov.in, www.keralaresults.nic.in  

Woman, daughter run over by train



THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A woman and her daughter were killed after being hit by an express train near Kadakkavoor railway station in the district on Tuesday evening. The dead were identified as Nirmala, 40, and Sowmya, 17, the Kadakkavoor police said. They were crossing the track to board a train back home at Poonthura, after visiting a relative at Anchuthengu when the Nagercoil-Gandhidham express train knocked them down. Both died on the spot, the police said.

Three killed in Malappuram



MALAPPURAM: Three persons were killed when the car in which they were travelling collided with a lorry at Chelari. The dead has been identified as Devarajan (60) of Kozhikode, his daughter Rekha (28) and Devarajan (37) of Kollam. Devarajan’s wife Rajalekshmy has been admitted at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital with serious injuries.

I'll abide by party directive: Chandy


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that he would abide by the party’s any directive.

He said this when brought to notice NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair’s statement asking chief minister to take up the post of KPCC chief after the former said that this post was bigger than the CM post.

Chandy said, “All problems will be solved through discussions. I’ve spoken about the entry of Chennithala. There is no change in my personal opinion. When asked whether Chennithala would be made the home minister, he said that it cannot be discussed openly. I was entrusted to take a decision after holding discussions on the ministerial post lying vacant.”

The Kerala Congress (B) has not demanded a ministerial post in writing. No discussions were held regarding the entry of Ganesh.

In reply to a question on the interview given to English daily, Chandy said that he doesn’t think Chennithala will give one like that. I will not try to insult anybody. The congress had always tried to work collectively which will continue hereafter.

Load-shedding may continue in June



THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The top brass of Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) met here on Wednesday and decided to file a request before the State Electricity Regulatory Commission for permission to take the load-shedding beyond May 31.

The existing permission is to impose cyclic load-shedding for one hour load during daytime and 30 minutes during the peak period of power consumption after sunset.

Congress reopens infighting


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Congress party in Kerala has reopened its infighting after long 8 years, with indications that an imminent intervention by the party high command in Delhi is likely.

The two groups within the state Congress—‘I’ and ‘A’—are at loggerheads over giving Home Ministry to KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala.

The ‘I’ group that supports Ramesh alleged that the ‘A’ group, that backs chief minister Oommen Chandy, has humiliated him by first offering him a cabinet berth as deputy chief minister or home minister and later retracting from it.

The ‘A’ group, however, says there had been no such promise and that Chennithala had never been keen to be in the cabinet.

A report in an English daily that claimed Ramesh Chennithala had expressed his resentment with chief minister Oommen Chandy, saying the chief minister could “go his own way” has stirred up a hornet’s nest.

Chennithala, talking to media persons on Wednesday, denied the report and said he has not given any interview to any newspaper or person. But Ramesh has not denied what he “told” in the alleged interview.

Though senior leaders Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan and K. Sudhakaran said it was unlikely that Chennithala would make such a statement, the tussle between the two groups worsened.

All indications are that the party high command will mediate to get the ‘I’ and ‘A’ camps to resolve the crisis involving the senior-most leaders in the party’s state unit.

Last week, speculation was rife that a final call on the issue would be made after prodding the mind of Defence Minister A K Antony, whose views are considered as the last word in Kerala party affairs. But Antony distanced himself from the issue stating that this was a matter to be decided between the Chief Minister and KPCC president and he need not be dragged into it.

Chennithala was seen as a possible contender for the chief ministership when he entered the fray in the Assembly polls in 2011 and won from Harippad segment in Alappuzha district. But he refrained from throwing his hat in the race against Chandy as the UDF could only muster a wafer thin majority of 72 seats in the 140-member Assembly.

Both Chandy and Chennithala have since claimed that they have a smooth working arrangement based on perfect understanding.

Though Chandy has left the invitation open to Chennithala to join the ministry anytime he wants, the latter has resisted the temptation thinking that becoming a minister with a minor portfolio would mar his long-term prospects as a central political player in the state.

However, according to sources in Congress, the real worry of Chennithala is that he might have to step down as the KPCC chief anytime as he had been heading the state unit for over eight years, in tune with the party's line of bringing new faces to head organisational tasks.

Woman, daughter run over by train

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A woman and her daughter were killed after being hit by an express train near Kadakkavoor railway station in the district on Tuesday evening. The dead were identified as Nirmala, 40, and Sowmya, 17, the Kadakkavoor police said. They were crossing the track to board a train back home at Poonthura, after visiting a relative at Anchuthengu when the Nagercoil-Gandhidham express train knocked them down. Both died on the spot, the police said.

No interview was given, says Chennithala


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala denied giving any interview to English daily regarding his entry to the cabinet. I’ve not given any interview officially to any dailies or persons, he said.

Meantime, he was not ready to deny the contents of the interview. He walked away without replying to the question whether the news was concocted.

In the interview to Indian Express, Chennithala had stated that the chief minister can go his way. I was insulted by offering a ministership, he said.

Chandy bags UN award for mass contact programme


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has won the United Nation's Public Service Award for his Mass Contact Programme, which saw him directly engaging with people in the state to address their grievances.

Chandy bagged the first prize from the Asia Pacific region with awardees chosen every year from five zones around the world, a release from the CM's office said.

Since 2003, UN has been giving the award as part of its programme for Public Service Day, which is observed on June 23.
The awards, instituted through a UN resolution, are announced after a three-tier scrutiny and detailed examination.

The shortlisted candidates are examined by a seven-member sub-committee of UN's Committee of Experts in Public Administration.

This year, UN Public Service Day ceremonies will be held from June 24 to 27 in Bahrain where UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon will distribute the awards on June 27. Mr Chandy would be attending the meet to receive his award on that day.

Chandy's mass contact programme has been widely lauded as a unique democratic experiment in which the Chief Minister of an Indian state met thousands of people directly without any intermediaries.

He received upto 5.5 lakh petitions, of which around 3 lakh were resolved, and distributed financial assistance of Rs. 22.68 crore as part of the programme.

Evaluation criteria for the awards include transparency, mechanisms to increase public's ability to seek and receive information in a timely manner and monitoring and analysing government decision-making and processes.

Promotions of accountability and documentation, which can serve as evidence of a government's conformity to legal, procedural and fiscal requirements, were also among the parameters.

Chandy bags UN award for mass contact programme


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has won the United Nation's Public Service Award for his Mass Contact Programme, which saw him directly engaging with people in the state to address their grievances.

Chandy bagged the first prize from the Asia Pacific region with awardees chosen every year from five zones around the world, a release from the CM's office said.

Since 2003, UN has been giving the award as part of its programme for Public Service Day, which is observed on June 23.
The awards, instituted through a UN resolution, are announced after a three-tier scrutiny and detailed examination.

The shortlisted candidates are examined by a seven-member sub-committee of UN's Committee of Experts in Public Administration.

This year, UN Public Service Day ceremonies will be held from June 24 to 27 in Bahrain where UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon will distribute the awards on June 27. Mr Chandy would be attending the meet to receive his award on that day.

Chandy's mass contact programme has been widely lauded as a unique democratic experiment in which the Chief Minister of an Indian state met thousands of people directly without any intermediaries.

He received upto 5.5 lakh petitions, of which around 3 lakh were resolved, and distributed financial assistance of Rs. 22.68 crore as part of the programme.

Evaluation criteria for the awards include transparency, mechanisms to increase public's ability to seek and receive information in a timely manner and monitoring and analysing government decision-making and processes.

Promotions of accountability and documentation, which can serve as evidence of a government's conformity to legal, procedural and fiscal requirements, were also among the parameters.

My words were misinterpreted, says Minister K C Joseph


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:  The media misinterpreted my statement on the accommodation of KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala into the cabinet, said Minister K C Joseph.

Talking to reporters here, Joseph said that he met Chennithala Wednesday morning and held talks with him.

Joseph had earlier stated that Minister P K Kunhalikutty was also entitled for the post.

He asked the media not to do the job of the Congress spokesperson and not to report unnecessary things. Joseph requested the media not to create any controversies.

I don’t think Chennithala will give an interview criticizing the chief minister. The party and the chief minister have a good rapport. If there are any problems, it will be solved amicably, he said.

KCA to support BCCI in spot fixing case


KOZHIKODE: Kerala Cricket Association secretary T C Mathew said they have the same stand as that of the BCCI in the spot fixing case. The KCA will support the investigation of the BCCI.

Addressing reporters here, Mathew said they will neither support nor oppose Sreesanth arrested in the spot fixing case.

Mathew said, “It is too early to respond to the issue of Sreesanth.  The court will decide the fate of Sreesanth once the investigation is completed. We are not ready to neither support Sreesanth nor disbelieve Delhi police. Action would be taken if found guilty. Sreesanth was arrested after getting solid evidence, he said.

Pillai refuses post if son not made minister


KOLLAM: Kerala Congress (B) chairman R Balakrishna Pillai said that he will not accept the post of chairman of the Forward Communities Development Corporation unless his son K B Ganesh Kumar is made a minister.

I had earlier said that we don’t need it but our party deserves it, he said. The chairman post is not a big thing for me but the ministerial post is important for the party. I agreed to accept the post as the UDF leaders requested. This will not replace the ministerial post, he said.  

Nobody can question the morality of Ganesh. The problems between Ganesh and his wife Yamini Thankachy are over. Nobody should interfere in the internal affairs of anybody.

My opinion is to give KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala the portfolio he demands, he added.

P Jayarajan abuses IG Jose George


KANNUR: CPM district secretary P Jayarajan showered abuses on Kannur range IG Jose George. He said the IG, a congressman, is a vagabond, and asked him to drop his police attire and wear the dress of a congressman.

He abused the top official while inaugurating a party function.

No immorality in inducting Ganesh, says K M Mani


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: There is no immorality in accommodating K B Ganesh Kumar to the cabinet, said Kerala Congress (M) chairman K M Mani. He resigned on moral grounds and was not ousted from the cabinet, he said.

He said this while responding to the statement of Chief Whip P C George that the re-entry of Ganesh would be immoral. When more was asked, Mani just walked off.

There is no connection between the number of MLAs and cabinet rank, he said. Parties with less MLAs have obtained the chief minister post. I’m not keen in becoming a chief minister, he said.  

The Kerala Congress (M) is eligible for two seats in the Lok Sabha polls. But before the announcement of the polls, there is no need for a discussion, he said.

No immorality in inducting Ganesh, says K M Mani


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: There is no immorality in accommodating K B Ganesh Kumar to the cabinet, said Kerala Congress (M) chairman K M Mani. He resigned on moral grounds and was not ousted from the cabinet, he said.

He said this while responding to the statement of Chief Whip P C George that the re-entry of Ganesh would be immoral. When more was asked, Mani just walked off.

There is no connection between the number of MLAs and cabinet rank, he said. Parties with less MLAs have obtained the chief minister post. I’m not keen in becoming a chief minister, he said.  

The Kerala Congress (M) is eligible for two seats in the Lok Sabha polls. But before the announcement of the polls, there is no need for a discussion, he said.

ADGP Sen Kumar talks in favour of Kalabhavan Mani


KOLLAM: Intelligence ADGP T P Sen Kumar talked in favour of actor Kalabhavan Mani who is involved in a case for assaulting forest officials. If it was Mohanlal, Mammootty, Jayaram or Dilip in place of Mani, then the approach of the police would have been different, he said.

He said this while inaugurating a function organized by the police association in Kollam.

The police are so eager to nab him as it is Kalabhavan Mani. If it was some other superstars in the place of Mani, then would the police have shown so much interest?  The police are behind him as the actor struggled very hard to reach this  position.

The official said, “I asked Thrissur SP the crime committed by Mani. I’m not justifying the act committed by Mani. The official was not able to give an answer when I asked whether action would have been taken if it was superstars in the place of Mani.  Not only police, the attitude of government officials towards the ordinary people are the same

I was humiliated by offering ministership, says Chennithala


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The differences of opinion between Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala in connection with the re-organisation of the cabinet has turned worse. In an interview given to a English daily, Chennithala has harshly criticized Chandy.

Chennithala has openly stated that the relations between the party and the government will not be as before. There will not be any compromise anymore. Chandy can go his way and I will go my way.

Chennithala said, “I was humiliated by offering a ministership. They told me that a decision would be taken after Kerala Yatra. But by the end of it, I was approached again and again with pleas to join the cabinet. But now I understand that it was all done to humiliate me. I will not join the cabinet without the intervention of the high command. The re-entry of K B Ganesh Kumar will be opposed.”

Chennithala asked whether he had put any hurdles in the way of Chandy in running the government. Many including Chandy knows that I’m not behind a ministerial post. But at the last phase of the Kerala Yatra, they strongly forced me to join the cabinet. But all that was to humiliate me, he said.

The move to accommodate Ganesh Kumar into the cabinet came the next day Chandy offered me the home portfolio or the deputy chief minister post. This move of Chandy will be strongly opposed, said Chennithala. 

Train knocks down college student

ANGAMALY: A college student was fatally knocked down by a train while crossing the railway track. The dead has been identified as Laisa, a graduate student of Thrissur St Thomas College. Three other students who were with the dead have been admitted to the hospital with injuries. The condition of one of the injured is stated to be serious.

P.P. James becomes Press Club President


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: P.P. James of Kerala Kaumdi has been elected as the President of the Trivandrum Press Club on Monday. Biju Chandrasekhar of Deepika is the Secretary.

Yesudas Williams, Ayyappan (Asianet), and Jayan Menon (Malayala Manorama) have been elected as Vice President, Joint Secretary and Treasurer respectively.

The Managing Committee members are K. Anas (Chandrika), Anil Gopi (Janmabhoomi), Biju Neyyar (Jeevan TV), N.K. Girish (Manorama News), Mahesh Chandran (Mathrubhumi News), and P.V. Murukan (mflintmedia).

B. Girish Kumar (Deshabhimani) has been elected as the Welfare Committee member.

Ramesh not to join cabinet, says Chandy


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Monday held talks with KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala on cabinet reshuffle and later told media persons that the latter is not going to be inducted in the cabinet for now. He also clarified that a cabinet reshuffle is not in the agenda.

Chandy also said that Ramesh has not yet shown interest in joining the cabinet. The reports on this matter are the creation of media. The position of KPCC President is higher than ministerial post. AICC President is the only position higher than the post of KPCC President, Chandy added.

The only priority given right now is for filling the vacancy left after Ganesh Kumar resigned as Forest Minister. A decision will be taken on this after the matter is discussed in the UDF, said Chandy.

IPL Scam: Delhi Police in Kochi


KOCHI: A seven-member team of the Delhi Police, investigating the IPL spot-fixing case in which Kerala Speedster S. Sreesanth is arrested, arrived in Kochi on Monday for collecting information about Sreesanth’s money transactions.   

It is learnt that since Sreesanth’s parents are in Delhi presently, raids would not be carried out at his house here.

Sreesanth’s bank accounts in Kochi, his investments in other organizations and the sources of money he spent for business purposes at Kochi and Bangalore will be investigated.

Self-financing colleges increase fees


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The self-financing medical colleges in the state increased their fees on Monday after it gave the nod from state government. Rs. 15000 has been increased for the merit seat, Rs. 50,000 for management seat and Rs. 1 lakh for NRI seat.

The decision to grant permission for increasing the fees was taken at the talks held between the college managements and Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Ministers V.S. Sivakumar and Aryadan Muhammed.

The existing fee (Rs. 20,000) imposed on BPL students in merit seats will not be increased.  

Thus, the new fee for merit seat is Rs. 1,65,000 which was Rs. 1,50,000 earlier. Fee for management seat is now Rs 7 lakh (earlier Rs. 6.5 lakh); fee for NRI seat is Rs 10.5 lakh (earlier Rs. 9.5 lakh).

Pension is the right of employees: VS



PATHANAMTHITTA: Pension is the right of every employee and not a liberality of the government and the Supreme Court of India had categorically stated this, opposition leader V S Achuthanandan has said. VS was inaugurating the state meeting of the Central Government Pensioners’ Association here on Saturday. The order of the apex court in 1983 had clearly stated that governments were not supposed to change the pension scheme of employees in accordance with their policy from time to time, he said. The Supreme Court had maintained that pension was the remuneration to an employee for sincerely completing his job and was the wage set apart while serving as a staff member, he said.

Youth killed in accident

KALPETTA: A youth was killed when the motorcycle he was riding collided with a Kozhikode-bound utility vehicle at Thalippuzha, near Vythiri, on Sunday noon. The police identified the dead as Midhun, 20, son of Gopalakrishnan of Kanakkazhi at Feroke in Kozhikode. The pillion rider Shimlal, 20, from Feroke was admitted to the Taluk hospital, Vythiri, with minor injuries.

I’ve not requested for a ministership, says Chennithala


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: No discussions were held in connection with the reorganisation of the cabinet, said KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala. I have not requested the high command for a ministerial berth nor has she asked me, he said.

He said this while talking to reporters after visiting V M Sudheeran undergoing treatment in Bangalore.
Chennithala said that he is least interested in joining the cabinet. I’m not behind a ministerial post.

K B Ganesh Kumar’s re-induction into the cabinet has not been discussed, he said.

Cabinet reshuffle reduced colour of Kerala Yatra: Muraleedharan


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader K. Muraleedharan on Sunday opined that the talks on cabinet reshuffle have reduced the colour of Kerala Yatra. He alleged that leaders are trying to actively participate in channel talks.

If KPCC chief Ramesh Chennithala is included in the cabinet, then he should be given a reputed position. He also said that he does not know anything about the cabinet reshuffle.

Private tankers strike work



THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A group of tanker lorry owners, that carry drinking water meant for the capital city on Saturday night declared a snap strike for Sunday following the district administration’s directive to introduce certain restrictions on the supply of water from the Water Authority.

The water supply to private hospitals, flats, hotels and other institutions was disrupted.

A minor road accident involving an autorickshaw and tanker lorry had caused a law and order issue near Aruvikkara dam on Friday. A protest meeting in connection with the incident was held at Venmani near Aruvikkara on Saturday.

The authorities say that the strike is part of lorry owners’ move to increase water price.

Meantime, the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) has doubled the distress of the residents by announcing that water supply will be disrupted from Sunday noon to Monday noon.

Jiju Janardhanan was like Sreesanth's 'satellite': Kerala Cricket Association secretary


NEW DELHI: Kerala Cricket Association secretary TC Mathew on Sunday revealed that pacer S Sreesanth was indeed very close to Jiju Janardhanan, and called him the "satellite" of the tainted speedster.

"He (Jiju) is always around Sreesanth as a satellite. We used to see him around Sreesanth not only in Kerala but in abroad also. When Sreesanth moves in the city he is always seen in his car. May be we thought he is a close friend of Sreesanth," Mathew told a news channel.

"Being a Malayali, he is eligible to play for Kerala. That's why may be Sreesanth brought him here to help him make it to the Ranji squad," he said.

Jiju was among the 11 bookmakers arrested by the Delhi Police for alleged spot-fixing in the T20 League matches.

"We never suspected his intentions. We only watched him as a normal person. One thing people used to know about him was that he was always around Sreesanth," he added.

The Mumbai police on Saturday said that they had raided a five-star hotel and searched the rooms independently booked in name of Sreesanth and Jiju Janardhan in the city and found laptop, ipad, mobile and diary which appeared to be of the cricketer.

Addressing reporters in Mumbai, joint commissioner of police Himanshu Roy said, "We are recreating the movements of Sreesanth and Jiju on May 14th morning through CCTV footage. We shall be able to make a final comment only after analysing evidence."

The T20 domestic Cricket Leahue was dealt a massive blow when Special Cell of Delhi police arrested pacer S Sreesanth and his Rajasthan Royals teammates -- Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan -- on Thursday for allegedly indulging in spot-fixing in at least three IPL matches as per arrangements with bookies who are suspected to have underworld connections abroad.

Delhi Police on Sunday arrested three more in the spot-fixing scandal including a former Ranji player.

The police have asked hotels in Mumbai, Chandigarh, Kolkata and Hyderabad to provide CCTV footage to scan meetings of the three arrested cricketers with bookies in connection with the spot-fixing case.

Police are also planning to seek permission for collecting voice samples of the players.

In the wake of controversy over spot-fixing in IPL matches, the sports ministry has started holding consultations with the law ministry to draft a new law to deal with betting in sports.

"Yes, I talked to (sports minister) Jitendra Singh.. We will soon draft a new law to deal with the malice of betting," law minister Kapil Sibal said in Delhi on Sunday.

He said the confidence of the people in sports is shattered when such controversies erupt.

While people think whatever is happening in the field is in the interest of the game, facts turn out to be otherwise, the minister said.

I’ve not sought dy CM post, says K M Mani


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: I’ve not sought the post of deputy chief minister, said Congress (M) leader and Finance Minister K M Mani.

No discussions were held in the UDF regarding the post. I’ve neither asked the post nor demanded it, he said.

The differences of opinion seen in the congress will not affect the UDF, he said.

Civil services topper scored just 53%


NEW DELHI: The final marks of successful candidates of the civil services examination were made public for the first time by the Union Public Services Commission website on Thursday.

The move came following a direction by the Central Information Commission (CIC) to make the results public on the UPSC website.

The list for this year shows that the topper, Haritha V Kumar, a woman engineer from Kerala, scored 53% marks (1193 out of 2250).

Earlier, the marks were sent to the candidates individually.

For the third straight year, a woman has topped the UPSC exams. Kumar, who cracked it on her fourth attempt, did her BTech from Kerala University. V Sriram, who did his MBBS from Kerala University, ranked second. The third ranker was Stuti Charan, who has done a BSc from Jodhpur University.

The preliminary examination was conducted on May 20 last year for which 5,36,506 candidates applied and 2,71,422 candidates appeared.

Of these, 13,092 candidates were declared qualified for the written examination held last October, and 2,674 candidates were selected for the personality test in March-April this year.

In total, 998 candidates have been recommended for appointment to various central services posts, for which there are 1091 vacancies.

Kerala's third heart transplantation successfully completed


KOCHI: Thursday was a day of rebirth for Shinto (23), even as Kerala witnessed the third successful heart transplantation, thanks to two persons—Kumari Jose (59) and Dr. Jose Chacko Periappuram.

Now, Shinto, son of Kuriakose from Mulanthuruthi, lives with the heart of Kumari Jose, wife of Jose from Aluva, who passed away on Thursday due to stroke at Amrutha Hospital here.

Kumari’s heart was placed in Shinto, who was admitted at Ernakulam Lisie Hospital, early morning on Thursday. This is the first time in the history of medical Kerala that the heart of a person at a hospital was transplanted in another patient at another hospital.

And the key person behind the successful surgery is none other than Dr. Jose Chacko Periappuram who led the first two heart transplantation surgeries in the state.

Shinto was hopelessly staying at Lisie Hospital for months since a suitable heart was unavailable. Only a heart transplantation surgery could save Shinto.

It was Fr. Varghese Asin Thaipparambu who indirectly became the saviour of Shinto. Pavin, son of Kumari, telephoned Varghese to inform his mother’s death. Varghese has been the Assistant Director of Lisie Hospital and so he put forward the idea of organ donation to which Kumari’s relatives answered in the affirmative.

Immediate arrangements were made then, and a surgery was carried out by Dr. Jose Chacko to remove Kumari’s heart at 9 pm, which was completed at 1.30 am. With the police’s aid, the heart was brought to Lisie Hopital, where Shinto was admitted. The surgery on Shinto was done within half an hour.

Now, Kumari’s heart throbs in Shinto’s chest. Shinto came back to life. Relatives of Kumari also know very well that Kumari has not left them. Just because “heart” always binds people.

Me too eligible for deputy chief minister, says Mani



KOTTAYAM: Finance Minister and Kerala Congress (M) Chairman K M Mani on Saturday said that he too was eligible for the position of deputy chief minister. But, he added that he was not taking the initiative now and said that the party welcomed the move to induct KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala to the cabinet.

If proved guilty, hang me: Madhani


BANGALORE: PDP leader Abdul Nasser Madhani, allegedly involved in the 2008 Bangalore blasts, on Saturday sent a letter to President Pranab Mukherjee demanding the latter to ensure justice for him.

He also alleged that he was trapped by the police. He asked the president to hang him if it is proved that he has links with terrorist organizations or proved to be a traitor.

In his letter, Madhani, who is currently lodged under judicial custody, explained his present problems concerned with health. He said that he takes around 20 capsules a day.

Court seeks govt's response on Kalabhavan Mani’s bail plea


KOCHI: The Kerala High Court sought the response of the police on the bail plea of actor Kalabhavan Mani in connection with the assault of forest officials.  The court will consider the plea only after getting the response of the police. 

The actor filed the bail plea today. The actor was not at home when the police went in search of him.

Meantime, the court rejected the actor's demand of avoiding arrest till a decision is taken on the bail plea. The court will consider the case again on Monday.

Do not drag me into Cabinet reshuffle: Antony


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Defence Minister A.K. Antony told reporters that he did not wish to be dragged into the discussions about a possible Cabinet reshuffle.

"I have come here to attend the rally to mark the culmination of KPCC president's Kerala Yatra campaign. Cabinet reshuffle is not in my agenda," Antony told reporters at the airport.

"The questions relating to cabinet reshuffle should be put to the Chief Minister and KPCC president, who are the competent persons to take decisions on that in consultation with the high command," he added.

Pinarayi’s statement towards CPI ‘unfortunate’, says Panniyan


THRISSUR:  The statement of CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan towards CPI is unfortunate, said CPI state secretary Panniyan Raveendran. Leaders should control their words, he said.

Pinarayi attacked the CPI at a function recently. CPI observing Onchiyam martyrs day separately is only a local issue. Commenting such issues on public venues is not a good procedure. Local issues should be solved locally.  Instead of wasting time on it, leaders should stop using sarcastic words, said Panniyan.