Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE LEGEND OF HIS HOLINESS MESSIAH OF PEACE TURNS 100. LEGEND WORTH KN

BY. FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

THE LEGEND OF HIS HOLINESS MESSIAH OF PEACE TURNS 100. LEGEND WORTH KNOWING. 

 His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin is a spiritual and temporal head of about million plus Dawoodi Bohras settled throughout the world. His Holiness functions as the vicegerent to the Imam who ruled over a large part of Islamic empire in the 10th to 12th Centuries and executes much of the Imam’s reverential position and authority as Dai al Mutlaq. While Imam is from the progeny of Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) and the supreme head of the Shia Fatimi Ismaili Tayyibi Dawoodi Bohras, Dai al Mutlaq is the authority instituted by the Imams to lead the followers of Imam during their seclusion which is in occurrence since 12th Century. His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin is the 52nd incumbent to this august office of al-Dai al-Mutlaq. 

 As the occupant of this office for about 47 years, His holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin has revived his community by giving vibrant expression to the community’s devotion to the family of Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) thus bringing it closer to its Fatimi roots through a varied educational and architectural endeavors. Besides, he has also restructured the community’s identity and promoted a movement to draw its business ethics closer to Islamic tenets. He has thus affected a significant spiritual and cultural upliftment of the community and its practice of the faith. 

 HIS HOLINESS DR. SYEDNA MOHAMMED BURHANUDDIN SAHEB- 

 His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin is an accomplished scholar, an illustrious philanthropist and an untiring traveler and veritable ambassador of goodwill. 

 His Holiness was born in Surat (India) on March 6th 1915. His revered father and predecessor Dr. Syedna Taher Saifuddin the 51st Dial-ul-Mutlaq predicted that his son would be a harbinger of honor and glory for the community and a messenger of peace and harmony for the entire world. 

 To fulfill the objective he was best trained in all the various fields. Consequently under the disciplined tutelage and personal supervision of his learned father, His Holiness mastered the entire Quran-Ul-Majeed at a tender age of 13. His excellent and exceptional intellectual ability made him a master of various religious scriptures at a young age and at the age of 19 he was designated successor to the office of Al-Dia-ul-Mutlaq by Syedna Taher Saifuddin. He ascended the seat of Al-Dai-ul-Mutlaq as its 52nd incumbent in the year 1965 on the sad demise of Dr.Syedna Taher Saifuddin. As predicted he reached the height of glory with incredible achievements falling at his feet. His era undoubtedly came to be known as the Golden era in the history of Dai-ul-Mutlaq. 

 Educational Contributions 

 We are living in turbulent times. Internationally there are wars and upheavals. But there is a war that each one of us must fight closer home, a war between good and evil. If this is difficult for us as adults, it is even more so for our children. Modernity is a two edged weapon. While it provides luxuries it also exposes us and our children to demoralized behavior. It is the task of educational institutions to provide cultural values along with worldly education to bring out a disciplined character and beneficial noble citizens. This will make life stable, purposeful and honorable. 

Education being a backbone of prosperity is thus given a great emphasis by His Holiness. He has therefore established a number of educational institutions worldwide, the first being, ‘Burhani College of Commerce and Arts’ at Mumbai, in the year 1970. At present there are over 400 educational institutions all over the world which are functioning under the administration of His Holiness. 

 As the teachings in the institutions lay stress on mental and material well being, spiritual training, organizational ability and internal discipline, there is obviously ample of social activities and myriad of contributions to the society by the community. 

 Contributions to Environment 

 Environment being the most crucial topic of concern globally, His Holiness with his foresight and divine guidance has been successfully able to educate the community about the preciousness of environment and motivate them to preserve this treasure. 

 On the occasion of his 80th birthday in 1991 he established “Burhani Foundation (India)” to promote research and awareness in environment. 

 This institution has made excellent contributions in the field of environment and struggles throughout the year to promote awareness about the same. The environmental contributions reach the peak during the celebration time of birthday of His Holiness, when the entire community teams up and works for the betterment of environment. The latest environmental program during the current ongoing centenary celebration is the Save Our Sparrow project. Under this, the Burhani Foundation (India) distributed 52000 Bird Feeders free of cost worldwide to interested people in order to provide a year round source of food to the humble sparrow and other tiny birds that are facing extinction. 

 Social Contributions 

 Man is a social being and thus has certain social obligations to perform. His Holiness being a conscious soul ensures that he and his community members discharge their social duties to the fullest extent. His sincere and dedicated efforts to establish social prosperity are praise worthy. The personal financial contributions of His Holiness for social betterment are unaccountable. He has also established several public charitable trusts, the amount of which runs in crores for the service of mankind. 

 Financial assistance to Entrepreneurs 

 Finance is the fuel of an economy. No doubt there are numerous financial institutions throughout the world that lend money on interest, but you will be astonished to know that, His Holiness has established “Burhani Qarzan Hasanah Trust” based on the tenets of Quran, which lends absolutely interest free loans. Peter Drucker in his book “Managing in Turbulent Times” predicted that in this decade many organizations will collapse because of the burden of finance cost. His Holiness predicted the same in the year 1939 and saved mankind from the clutches of interest. The prime purpose of the trust is to provide seat capital for the development of business. 

 Recognitions 

 The personality of His Holiness has a magnetism of its own. Where ever he goes he draws huge crowds and dignitaries, who come to receive his blessings and seek his guidance and advice. In the context of his magnificent contribution, it is inevitable that he is recognized throughout the world. Wherever he has been he has been honored by recognition. 

 Following are a few: 

 • In the year 1966, His Holiness was conferred the Degree of Dr. of Islamic Studies by Al Azhar University of Cairo (Egypt). 

• In the same year he was conferred the honorary degree of Dr. of Theology by the Aligarh Muslim University in recognition of his broad and liberal humanism. 

• In 1976, on the occasion of historic World of Islam festival hosted in London, Syedna was invited and delivered a series of memorable lectures at the International Islamic Conference on Aspects of Islamic studies held at Albert Hall. 

• In 1978, he was awarded the title of Visha-hun-neel, a rare distinction presented to foreign dignitaries by his Excellency President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt. 

• 1980, Syedna established the Burhani Qardan Hasanah Trust (interest free loan), to propogate and foster the lofty Quranic concept of Qardan hasanah. 

• In 1982, in appreciation for the noble services to the cause of humanity his royal highness, the Lt. King Hussain of Jordon honored him with the highest civilian award of “Order of Star of Jordan(1st rank)”. 

• In 1986, the mayor of Houston USA presented His Holiness a proclamation declaring 8th August 1986 as His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin Day. 

• In 1988, the governor of Punjab (Pakistan) presented him “The Key of Lahore”.

 • In 1992, the mayor of Chittagong (Bangladesh) presented him “The Golden key of the City”. 

• In the same year the governor of Noysbee (Madagasgar) presented “Emblem of the City to him.

 • In 1996, a number of cities in the US and Canada including San Jose, Houston, Dallas, Irving, Richmond Hill proclaimed Syedna as the Honorary Citizen and presented him ‘Key of the City’ 

• In 1999, he accepted the Chancellorship of Aligarh Muslim University. 

• Also in the year 2001, he was presented “Key of the City of Houston” by the mayor during his visit to the city then. 

• In 2004, Syedna was conferred a Degree of ‘Doctor of Letters’ by the University of Karachi, Pakistan. 

• In 2005, Syedna reconstructed the multi specialty ‘Saifee Hospital’ in Mumbai. Honourable Indian Prime Minister Mr. Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurated the same. 

• In 2007, Mayor of Houston, USA presented a proclamation to Syedna declaring Monday, 7th May, 2007 as “His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin day” in Houston. 

• Besides he also has numerous religious titles awarded by his predecessor father. 

• In spite of his ripe age, His Holiness dedicates his entire working hours to the service of mankind. He leads the prayers, solemnizes marriages, gives his valuable advice, visits the homes of the faithful, personally oversees the affairs of over 400 community run educational institutions, supervises hospital and charitable institutions, looks after to the provisions of free boarding and lodging for thousands of pilgrims, provides scholarships for educations to deserving students, gives special aid to the aged and infirm and it is a wonder to know that no file remains with him for more than 24 hrs. 

 His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin Saheb will complete 99 years of his life and enter on the grand 100th year as per Islamic Calendar which falls on Friday, 25th March 2011. 

 “THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER” salutes the Messiah and heartily wishes His Holiness on the 100th Birthday and also wishes for his long, healthy and prosperous life for the betterment of mankind. 

SERVING THE NEEDY IS HUMANITY.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter PASSING THE PARCEL IGR & CS HAS NO INFORMATION. DOESN’T WANT TO WORK FOR IT

BY FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

PASSING THE PARCEL 

IGR & CS HAS NO INFORMATION. DOESN’T WANT TO WORK FOR IT 

 TBMR had filed an RTI with IGR & CS department asking for some useful information about the Stamp papers which were issued by the State Bank of Mysore. While the PIO at IGR & CS did not reply to the RTI, the same was filed with the Appellate authority to provide the information. The Appellate authority called the applicant on 08th March 2011 and our Editor appeared for the same. However, what happened then was really shocking. 

 The IGR & CS himself being the head of the department was the Appellate authority himself. It was Mr. S. N. Jayaram, a 1994 batch IAS Officer who also was the Ex-MD of the Karnataka State Co-Op Apex Bank Ltd. 

 When the Editor, an RTI applicant approached, the appellate Mr. Jayaram advised him to file an RTI with the SBM whose information is required rather then asking the same from IGR & CS. This is extremely condemnable. How can a responsible person like the appellate authority and IGR & CS don’t know the RTI rules? It is the duty of the appellate to provide the information sought to any RTI applicant. Besides, Mr. Jayaram also asked him a copy of the SBM Appellate authority reply against his RTI appeal filed with them earlier. Frankly, it is not his business. 

 The IGR & CS department is paying more than one lakh rupees as rent from the tax payers money for the building and it is the duty of the officers to monitor the activities pertaining to the Revenue department. In this case, they must monitor and maintain records of all Stamp papers transactions done by the Bank etc. 

However it is not done so. None of the required documents are neither obtained by the IGR & CS department till date & are not even collecting or demanding from the bank. In spite of RTI being filed regarding the same, the IGR & CS is least bothered to collect the information from the Bank and provide the same. On the Contrary, the IGR & CS who is also the Appellate authority, asked the applicant to seek the information from the Bank directly. 

 Besides, the Appellate asking for the copy of the reply by the SBM appellate is also highly condemnable. It may be for the intention to just copy paste the information as given by the SBM appellate and issue a reply to the applicant there by misguiding him. 

 When an appeal was filed with the Appellate, the authority called him to office. But, then, how could you call an applicant to your office only to tell him that he has to file an RTI with the respective Bank in stead to seek the information required? Does not this clearly show the world how an important department like IGR & CS is functioning? 

 It is reminded that it is the duty of the IGR & CS and the whole department to get the relevant information from the related source and provide to applicants whosoever he may be. On the contrary, the information primarily should be available with you in first place, rather than seeking it from the related source later on. 

 Your act of suggesting Banks name for the information and also asking for the copy of SBM appellate is highly condemnable Mr. IGR & CS. 

 The Editor has however filed an appeal with the KIC regarding the information. And by the way, Mr. Jayaram, the IGR & CS got transferred from his post on 11th March and the new IGR & CS Mr. Shivappa (IAS) has taken up the charge.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter BUSINESSES CELEBRATE THE CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

BY FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

BUSINESSES CELEBRATE THE CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS 

 The worldwide million plus Dawoodi Bohra community is in immense festive mood. Their spiritual and temporal head, His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin (TUS) will complete 99 years of life and enter the grand 100th year as per Islamic calendar which falls on 25th March 2011. 

 It should be noted that His Holiness emphasized on Entrepreneurship and due to his constant and sincere efforts, the Dawoodi Bohras today are famous worldwide as Traders and Businessmen. It is therefore relatively important that the festive mood of Centenary Celebrations pierces into the Business life of Dawoodi Bohras. 

 In the Context, in Bangalore, Burhani Shopping Festival is organized wherein the Dawoodi Bohra businessmen will reward their customers with gifts and compliments in return for purchases made by them. While majority of the Dawoodi Bohras have their establishments in City Market area, the Burhani Shopping Festival is organized on Sadar Patrappa Road, Silver Jubilee Park Road and Narasimha Raja Road and its by lanes. 

 Burhani Shopping Festival was inaugurated today on Monday, 14th March at 11am on a grand scale in presence of many Political and other dignitaries. Dr. Hema Chandra Sagar, BJP MLA (Chickpet Constituency), R. Roshan Baig, Congress MLA (Shivajinagar Constituency), Zameer Ahmed, JD(S) MLA (Chamrajpet Constituency) graced the occasion. Dhanaraj, BJP Corporator of Dharmaya Temple Ward No. 119 and Gunashekhar, Corporator of Jayamahal Ward No. 63, were also present for the occasion. Members of the KHAMA association and other dignitaries including the Bangalore Aamil Saheb of Dawoodi Bohra community, Sk. Khuzaimabhai Yamani were also present. 

 The Dawoodi Bohras establishments are all decorated and placards of greetings to His Holiness on Centenary Celebrations and his contributions in various fields and achievements are also briefly displayed at all outlets. Any customer that checks in any of the premises, and shops for goods will be rewarded with proportionate worth compliments to commemorate the Centenary celebrations of His Holiness. Gift items consists of Laptop Bags, Shopping Bags, Cash Bags, Silver coins etc. 

 Burhani Shopping Festival will officially run up to 25th March, the corresponding day of Gregorian calendar, when His Holiness will begin his 100th grand year of life. The individual establishments also may extend the offer for a longer period.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE CHOICE AND THE CONTROVERSY VISHWA KANNADA SAMMELANA MIRED BY CONTROVERSIES-YET SUCCESSFUL

BY FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE CHOICE AND THE CONTROVERSY 

 VISHWA KANNADA SAMMELANA MIRED BY CONTROVERSIES-YET SUCCESSFUL 

 The Vishwa Kannada Sammelana though vital for Karnataka, became a cesspool of controversies. The Government spent more than 30 crores to sponsor it, but, the Sammelana which was immediate to the Kannada Meet in Bangalore was definitely not a good move. Thousands of Kannadigas who are still relishing the Kannada meet held by the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, found it hard to prepare for the World Kannada meet within such a short period. 

 WORLD KANNADA MEET 

 The Chief Minister B.S Yeddyurappa had sometime back declared that the Government will hold World Kannada meet in Belgaum on March 11 to 13. As the meet was organized by the Government, it implies that the dominant and decisive role was of the politicians and bureaucrats, and not of Kannada organizations, writers and ordinary kannadigas. The Government decided whom to invite and what resolutions to pass. It also decided the agenda and needless to say that the meet was aimed for publicity. All one could do is to attend the meet, purchase a couple of kannada books, taste the food if it was available, and return to their natives. 

 There was no need for World Kannada meet a month after All India Kannada Meet, but, politics made Yedurappa to hold the meet for improving his public image. While there is real threat to Yedurappa’s position and there are strong possibilities of the state going for a snap poll, Yedurappa had to build up his tainted image, and he hit upon the Kannada Meet. 

 SOFTWARE MAN-HARD TO DIGEST 

 Whatever, the World Kannada meet was mired in controversies. The Government chose Infosys’ Boss N.R Narayana Murthy to inaugurate the Meet and popular Hindi Actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to be the Chief Guest. The choice of Narayan Murthy became a big controversy. The kannada scholars and activists strongly protested over the choice of Narayan Murthy arguing that his contributions as far as Kannada is concerned, is a big zero. In fact, it is he who is advocating English education from the primary level. 

Besides, he has no contributions to the kannada or kannadigas either in the state or elsewhere? His Infosys Company has provided employment to more than two lakh people in the state and elsewhere, but, hardly 10% of them are kannadigas. It has also till now not developed a single software in Kannada. It is to be remembered that NRN built his present Infosys empire in Bangalore with the largesse like land, tax exemption and other soups offered by the then Chief Minister HD Deve Gowda. He came into public dominance during SM Krishna regime and was even tipped for the President of India post but was denied due to the National Anthem controversy. 

 It is under this back drop that the choice of Yedurappa to invite Narayan Murthy to inaugurate the World Kannada Meet was opposed. On the Contrary, his wife Sudha Murthy has done more service to Kannada and the State through her Foundation. She has written kannada books and is actively involved in social work. She can be credited with hi-tech toilets in Bangalore and she is also encouraging poor meritorious students to pursue their education through scholarships and donations. But Yedurappa had his own ideas. 

 Naturally, the kannada organizations and writers took strong objection to the choice of Narayan Murthy to inaugurate the meet. Many organizations even threatened to boycott the meet itself. Yedurappa, shaken with the developments, tried to defend on the pretext that Narayan Murthy is the most visible face of kannadiga in the world and the state would be honouring itself by honouring Narayan Murthy. But, people were not convinced. 

 ALL FOR GLAMOUR 

 Further, the choice of Ashwarya Rai Bachchan as the Chief Guest was also equally controversial. Except that she was born in Karnataka, all her studies and career are limited to Hindi cinema and she has grown in stature after her marriage with Abhishek Bachchan. Her contribution to Kannada is again a big zero and her presence at the kannada meet was limited to glamour. 

 Besides, Yedurappa on the eve of the World Kannada Meet got another Hindi actress Hema Malini elected to the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka. 

 UNITED FOR KANNADA 

 Whatever, keep aside the intentions and dirty politics in organizing such respectful events, the World Kannada Meet was hugely successful indeed. It is pleasure to know that all those who participated raised one voice to unite and contribute towards Karnataka and its culture. And that is what counts. Isn’t it!

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter PLANNING THE SANCTIONS NAGADEVANAHALLI LAYOUT- ONE LAYOUT, MULTIPLE PLANS LOKSEVA HOUSING SOCIETY- CO-OP. SOCIETY FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSE

BY FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

PLANNING THE SANCTIONS 

NAGADEVANAHALLI LAYOUT- ONE LAYOUT, MULTIPLE PLANS LOKSEVA HOUSING SOCIETY- CO-OP. SOCIETY FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSE 

 The Lokseva Housing Co-operative Society floated by the KPSC employees provide a classic Text book case in the art of confusion. The best example for this confusion is its Nagadevahalli Layout, formed on 12 acres 3 Guntas of land. The BDA had sanctioned 165 sites in 1993 and later in 2006 another layout plan supposed to have been sanctioned provided 187 sites. This draft layout plan only has the signature of a petty official who had signed ‘For’ Deputy Director of Town Planning. Then, another sanctioned layout plan of 200 sites was prepared and no one knows which one is legal? Interestingly, the BDA has refused to sanction another modified plan for carving out sites from CA areas. 

 In our current issue, we bring to you the scams in Lokaseva Housing Co-operative Society which is floated by the KPSC employees for the KPSC employees, but, has already outlived its utility. After providing sites to members (in all 192,) the society should have been winded up, but, M N Gururaja alias M N Gururaja Rao, the secretary of the society converted it into a real estate firm forming many more layouts and selling the sites to public at market rates. 

 M N Gururaja Rao, presently the Assistant Secretary in the KPSC is also functioning as M N Gururaja in the Society. He has been the Secretary since its formation in the eighties. Despite the Co-operative Act stipulating to adopt model bye laws to all the Co-operative Societies in the State, this is the only society which cared too hoots for adopting the model bye law. As per the Act, every Co-operative Society shall have paid Secretary and no member or Director can become the Secretary let alone paid Secretary. But M N Gururaj, who has become a law unto himself, is still continuing as Secretary. 

To avoid departmental action, he is staying himself as M N Gururaj instead of his original and official name of M N Gururaja Rao. If troubles come, he can avoid the consequences by stating that M N Gururaj, the Secretary of the Lokaseva Housing Society is different from M N Gururaja Rao, the Assistant Secretary in KPSC! 

 Forget about all these. In the formation of its first layout at Nagadevanahalli, M N Gururaj has committed unimaginable scams but his high links at high places, has blinded the eyes of the Co-operative department officials who are supposed to take action against the omissions and commissions in the society. 

 In fact, the society had purchased 12 acres and 3 guntas of lands in Survey. No. 24 and 25 of Nagadevanahalli, bordering Ullal. The sale deed between the land owners and the society shows that M N Gururaj has signed as M N Gururaja Rao and the BDA had also sanctioned the layout plan of the society. It sanctioned 165 sites of various dimensions. M N Gururaj submitted a list of Members of the society totaling 192 members (which included around 34 set up members who paid only Rs. 100 as share fee). Deducting those who have not paid the sital amount, 165 sites were more than sufficient to cater to the needs of all the eligible members of the society. 

 But M N Gururaj had sold more than 200 sites in this layout! How could this happen when the total sanctioned sites were only 165? The fact is that M N Gururaj had unofficially purchased adjacent land and formed sites in that area also without caring to follow the law of the land. But there was a hitch. If somebody wanted to purchase a site in the layout if he went for legal opinion, the cat would be out of the bag. 

The fact that while the BDA had sanctioned only 165 sites and the society had sold 200 sites will not go undetected. To insulate himself against such detection of fraud, M N Gururaj tried to show a façade of legality. He submitted another draft layout plan in 2005 to the BDA. In the draft layout plan, 187 sites have been shown. That is a clear increase of 22 sites over the earlier sanctioned sites. Curiously, M N Gururaj had given that draft layout plan to many gullible purchasers to show that the society has formed 187 sites. To make it seem like an official copy, he got a petty official in BDA to ‘endorse’ the copy as ‘For’ Deputy Director Town Planning! 

 This is not the end of the road. M N Gururaj wanted to sell some sites as the land prices sky rocketed between the years 2006 to 2008. He wanted to form some more sites and make crores. He formed sites in the park areas too and submitted another modified areas plan. He had used all his influences to get the BDA to approve the modified plans. But, as the parks had already been handed over to the BBMP, the BDA refused the sanction. 

 In fact, M N Gururaj had cleverly manipulated the dimensions of the sites to increase the number of sites. He had formed sites of dimensions like 60 x 551/2”, 30 x 41, etc. By doing such manipulations, he increased the number of sites. But the question is – how could the BDA sanction sites measuring 30x41, 40x551/2 etc. 

Any answers??

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE BURDEN OF INVESTIGATION JPC probe into 2G Spectrum is a meaningless exercise

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER

THE BURDEN OF INVESTIGATION

JPC probe into 2G Spectrum is a meaningless exercise

 The UPA Government has finally agreed to constitute a Joint Parliamentary Committee to probe the 2G Spectrum scam. The BJP which demanded the JPC did not allow the winter session of the Parliament to transact any business. Now, the JPC is agreed upon and we can expect the Budget session to pass off peacefully. The UPA government did take a tough stand over the matter of not having the JPC, which it perceived would set a bad precedent. The formation of JPC will however become a double edged weapon to the BJP also. Congress on the contrary can use this as an opportunity, to cut size the DMK. Whatsoever, the constitution of JPC to probe the 2G Spectrum may not serve any purpose as there are already multi dimensional probes in action and almost complete on the same. 

 One does not know the background of the BJP for making a determined bid into the alleged 1.76 lakh crore 2G Spectrum scam. But, there are many chances that the same may backfire the BJP very hard. Interestingly while the BJP was insisting for a JPC probe, the Public Accounts Committee of the Parliament headed by BJP’s senior leader Murali Manohar Joshi was also probing the 2G Spectrum scam. Yet the BJP fiercely demanded JPC. The Public Accounts Committee and the Joint Parliamentary Committee are common but for few differences. Both consist of MP’s of various parties and while PAC is headed by the Opposition, the JPC is headed by the Ruling party. 

Another difference between the two is that PAC can only summon people up to the rank of bureaucrats and not politicians and JPC can summon anyone related with the scam, be it the PM or an ordinary clerk. The JPC thus becomes the higher version of PAC. It is another matter that while the PAC was on, the Honourable PM had already offered to appear before the PAC if required and this was first time in Indian history. 

 Kapil Sibal, the HRD Minister who took over the Telecom Ministry after the resignation of the tainted Telecom Minister A. Raja, appointed a retired Supreme Court Judge Shivraj Patil to probe the scam in detail with particular stress in the procedural aspects since 2001. Justice Shivraj Patil submitted a report within a month identifying the procedural lapses and the persons involved including Telecom Minister and other officials. The report also proved embarrassing for the BJP as, it was in power between the years 1999 to 2004. Pramod Mahajan and Arun Shourie of the BJP are also accused of abetting the procedural lapses by the commission. 

 All in all, three enquiries have already been held over the 2G spectrum scam. The PAC of the Parliament has almost completed the probe. The CBI is half the way and will finish it in a couple of months and Justice Shivraj Patil has already submitted the report over the procedural lapses. 

 Further constituting a JPC to probe the scam will bear no fruit. The multiplicity of the probes by the PAC, CBI, and ED will all come in the way of the political probe. While this is the fourth JPC probe, it too is expected to bite the dust like the earlier Bofors and Harshad Mehta case. 

 The Supreme Court monitored CBI probe is enough to do the justice in this scam. The CBI has already filed charge sheets against Raja and some others and as the investigation continues many more prominent names of Politicians, Bureaucrats, Industrialists will tumble out. 

 By the way, the Congress too accepted the JPC probe after major factors of the scam already became public and the CBI already roped in the main culprits. Hereafter, the JPC will not have much work to do. Besides, the PAC is also probing the scam. It simply cannot whitewash the scam as it is headed by the opposition leader. And most importantly, the entire scam revolves around the procedure lapses in the telecom ministry, the report of which is already submitted by Justice Shivraj Patil. 

 In such a scenario, besides gaining the publicity value and an opportunity to blame the ruling Government, the JPC will not serve any other purpose. But truly, that is what the Political party and the politicians are interested in. Is it not?

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter THE GREAT DAMAGER-II LOAN RAISING SCAM OF THE KLAC GM

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

 THE GREAT DAMAGER-II 

 LOAN RAISING SCAM OF THE KLAC GM 

 TBMR in its past edition had covered a story about the corrupt official of Karnataka Land Army Corporation, now known as Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited. The General Manager Mr. S.V.Venkatesh Murthy, has credited himself with bundles of manipulations. He is not an ordinary or notorious corrupt official but a bulldozer of corruption who enjoys the unadulterated support of few IAS officials. While suspension is the logical decision for corrupt practices, the culprit here was abundantly rewarded and promoted for undertaking manipulations. 

 While there are myriads of manipulations of S.V.Venkatesh, we are featuring an exclusive loan raising story of the manipulative General Manager. 

 THE BEGINNING 

 When M.R.Srinivasa Murthy became the BMP (now BBMP) Commissioner, Footpath works worth more than 20 crores were entrusted to KLAC and S.V.Venkatesh was entrusted the same. However, the works executed by S.V.Venkatesh were all out and out substandard. The Foot path works were entrusted to sub contractors and more than 60% of the works were done by private contractors who got it on sub contract from S.V.Venkatesh. 

 FORCEFUL NEED 

 Primarily there was no need of laying concrete block footpaths after removing the cobble stone footpaths. The cobble stone footpaths have stood the test of the time and the BMP would have saved several crores if the renovation of footpaths were done by replacing the damaged stone slabs and relaying the existing slabs. But the story was different here. 

 BLUNDER IN WORK 

 Almost total of the footpath work undertaken by KLAC had gone waste. Most of the cement curbstones and tiles that were laid came off and the footpaths worn out. The BBMP was forced to lay many footpaths afresh, some with Sira stones or mosaic tiles. The BBMP had also entrusted the Hi tech toilets numbering around 100, at cost of more than 9 crores and within two-three years, most of the hi-tech toilets also become non-functional. Shockingly, in spite of all these, nobody in the BMP questioned the quality and quantum of works done by S.V.Venkatesh. On the contrary, even the payments were made to him. 

 WITHOUT THE GODFATHER 

 Later, after the exit of M.R.Srinivas Murthy, S.V.Venkatesh faced hurdles in getting the BMP to settle the bills, most of which were with excess claims. The BMP adopted a tough stand of releasing of payment only after inspection of work. Up till then, S.V.Venkatesh had submitted claims to the tune of more than Rs. 18 crores towards final settlement. But the BBMP estimated the works worth a little above 10 crores. 

 As the BBMP tightened the screws, S.V.Venkatesh had no money to complete many other works. The BBMP officials had made it clear that they will clear the bills only after the inspection of quality and quantity of the executed work. 

 RAISING THE LOSS 

 While he was in trouble, he did the most unimaginable. The KLAC had to undertake works, after the entrusting agencies deposit money. In many cases, the money was released in installments depending upon the progress of the works. In the case of BBMP also, the KLAC had got substantial money to start the works. But when the BBMP took the tough stand that it will pay the final bills only after the claims were checked and counterchecked, S.V.Venkatesh felt the heat. He then forced the then MD Ravishankar to divert some of KLAC money to BBMP zone, still not enough money could be diverted. 

S.V.Venkatesh therefore forced the then MD to procure a loan of 3.60 crores from Corporation Bank, Shivajinagar. The KLAC had kept an FD of more than 20 crores at the said bank branch, being the savings on works accrued in the past several years. The FD was mortgaged and 3.60 crore loan was raised. 

 There was absolutely no need for raising a loan and that too on the FD. Rather, S.V.Venkatesh could have made efforts to get the BBMP payments released. The loan was however raised and spent within a few days on works. 

But what are the returns? Even assuming 10% savings (or profits in other words) the KLAC could have earned 36 lakhs. Further, if we deduct the interest for the three months, the KLAC would have netted 23-24 lakhs, provided the work was completed and the bill was then settled. 

 But what is the reality? After taking the loan on 7.3.2007, S.V.Venkatesh simply spent it on works and kickbacks. The work therefore suffered and the repayment delayed resulting in KLAC paying lakhs of rupees as interest charges against the loan. 

Any agency works for profit and what is the use to exist and undertake work that is bound to give no returns. The loan raised by KLAC has inflicted losses to the department rather than benefiting them. On the contrary, the amount if it remained in Fixed Deposit scheme would have fetched them more. 

 PROFIT V/S LOSS 

 The KLAC could have earned lakhs of rupees as interest if 3.60 crores were kept in FD. In stead, the KLAC had to pay lakhs of rupees towards interest to the Bank on the loan. Normally, finances are taken from Banks for short term works with a good profit margin. 

But in this case, a huge loan was raised and that too for a long period. Further, if the loan amount was spent on the work, it would have been completed and payment too would have been realized. But, as said above, the story was different here. 

 Of course, the then MD A.K. Singh is believed to be an honest and pious man. His endorsement of raising the loan can be due to the pressure from S.V.Venkatesh with realizing that he is backed by many powerful officials. 

 CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS? 

 The Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department which was controlling the department for KLAC had spent more than Rs. 3500 crores towards development works. It executed the works through its Rural Development Engineering Department and interestingly, the RDED had only two Chief Engineers to look after entire works. 

 Compared to this, the KLAC had executed works to the extent of about 300 crores during 2007-08. And to execute these projects, KLAC had three Chief Engineers! Calculating the average, each the RDED Chief Engineers executed the work to the tune of Rs. 1800 crores and KLAC Chief Engineers, which is its subsidiary, executed works to the tune of 100 plus crores only. 

RDPR - Two CEs for 3500 crore works 

KLAC - Three CEs for 350 crore works 

 Well, there are many more scams and manipulations of the great General Manager. The best way to conclude is to stay that in spite of all such misdeeds, S.V.Venkatesh even today is the General Manager of KLAC which is now known as KRIDL.

Firoz.T.Totanawala The Bangalore Metro Reporter SAVE OUR SPARROWS

FIROZ.T.TOTANAWALA 

 THE BANGALORE METRO REPORTER 

SAVE OUR SPARROWS 

BFI & NFS INITIATES THE BIGGEST CONSERVATION PROJECT, WILL DISTRIBUTE 52000 BIRD FEEDERS FREE 

 Birds are gift of nature and form an integral part of urban life. Man, in his race for livelihood has been neglecting or rather damaging the nature which is provided for his own benefits. Consequently, many species of birds and wild life which were common to us few years back are on the verge of extinction. 

 The humble house sparrow for instance, which was once omnipresent feature of urban environment, has seen a drastic decline over the past few years, mainly due to lack of food and habitat. It would be a great tragedy to loose such a wonderful part of nature all because of our negligence. Researchers feel that the decline of this humble bird may actually point to a larger threat – that is, the degrading urban environment worldwide. 

 In order to safeguard and protect these small cuties, a wonderful and biggest conservation initiative project called “Save Our Sparrows” is initiated by Burhani Foundation (India) in collaboration with Nature Forever Society. 

 March 6 is the birthday of His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin (TUS) as per the Gregorian calendar and as per the Hijri Calendar His Holiness will enter the 100th year of his life on 20th Rabiul Aakher 1433H which falls on 25th March this year. 

 On the historical occasion of 100th Milaad Mubarak and birthday celebration of His Holiness Dr Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin on March 6, in the run up to the World Sparrow Day on March 20, the Foundation in collaboration with Nature Forever Society, will distribute a record 52,000 bird feeders around the world, to boost the dwindling house sparrow population. In Mumbai, Shri Murli Deora will be the Chief Guest of this unique programme which will be attended by numerous esteemed Dignitaries, Consulates, NGO’s and prominent personalities. The representatives from Guinness Book of World Records will also be present to witness this event. 

 This single biggest nature conservation effort would be held during the celebrations spanning over three weeks, NFS Chief and well known sparrow man Mohammed Dilawar said. The entire cost of this unique project, titled ‘Save Our Sparrows’, will be borne by the Burhani Foundation (India), he added. 

 The population of house sparrow and other urban wildlife is in serious decline due to the habitat loss, scarcity of food and lack of nesting sites. Through this project, Burhani Foundation (India) attempts to provide house sparrows and other urban birds a year round source of food. 

 SOS is part of a series of activities supported by Nature Forever Society, in the run up to the second World House Sparrow Day celebration on March 20. The bird feeders will be distributed free-of-cost to interested citizens, institutes, forest departments, social groups, societies and conservation organizations in India and world wide. It could be installed in homes, open yards, balconies and even office premises and will work as an easy and functional conservation tool for the common people to save these lovely tiny birds. 

 BURHANI FOUNDATION (INDIA) 

 Burhani Foundation (India) was formed by His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin (TUS) for the purpose of environment preservation. It has been silently advocating environmental awareness and research around the world, for the last 20 years. It has also been involved in many other significant projects like vermiculture and organic farming over the past years. 

 In order to make SOS a success, Burhani Foundation is calling on all the people from different walks of life, educational institutes and nature conservation organisations to come forward and involve themselves in the worldwide project to save the House Sparrows. Through this project, Burhani Foundation (India) also hopes to create awareness towards the well being of other beautiful creations of almighty, thus offering a tribute to His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin (TUS) whose mission is harmony and compassion.