It’s dead man walking again in Tamil Nadu

STORYBOARD

It’s dead man walking again in Tamil Nadu

ARUN RAM

21.12.2020

Early in his election campaign, Kamal Haasan got what he wanted: attention from not just the voters, but his political rivals too. If inciting chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami was Kamal’s idea, he did it with elan. “Many present-day ministers wouldn’t have seen the bright face of MGR,” the MNM leader told gatherings in Virudhunagar and Tuticorin past Tuesday. “But I have grown up on MGR’s lap; he greeted me whenever I achieved something big or small.”

EPS retorted: “The AIADMK was founded by MGR, and we are the only party that can claim his legacy.”

Kamal isn’t the first one this season to allude to MGR. Speaking at the MGR University in Chennai in March 2018, Rajinikanth had said: “I am not MGR, but I can give a pro-poor government like his. Once when I was hospitalised, MGR used to call regularly to inquire about my wellbeing.” Rajini, too, got an acerbic treatment from the AIADMK. Even the BJP tried to appropriate the fur-capped darling of the Tamils, using his image along with that of BJP state president L Murugan and comparing MGR with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The AIADMK asked its overambitious ally to behave.

Those were only trailers of a suspense – even comic – thriller that will play out for five months before the assembly election. What’s striking is that 33 years after his death, MGR continues to be at the centre of public memory and political machinations. The AIADMK can indeed claim MGR’s legacy, primarily because of retaining the name – despite two episodes of rebellion the party survived – the founder chose. Nobody could match the pro-poor and humane spirit of MGR, the governments under J Jayalalithaa and EPS had tried to keep welfare measures on their priority list, though their intentions were more political than philanthropic.

Rajini and Kamal will have personal anecdotes to share about MGR’s kindness and warmth, but projecting themselves as the new-age MGRs will be preposterous. For, MGR was much more than the sum of all that his legacy claimants try to appropriate.

Why can’t the recent star entrants in politics match MGR? Here is reproducing a part of what I wrote in 2002 when the AIADMK turned 30: He (MGR) was just the hero Tamil Nadu badly wanted in real (life). He never played a negative role. On screen, MGR never smoked or drank and always treated his women with respect. Superstar MGR was the harbinger of hope, the warrior of the oppressed and the messiah of the masses. He had sparkling eyes, till those trademark dark glasses hid them. He was fair.

How much of that were Rajini and Kamal on the silver screen? As for the transition from the decked-up film sets to the dust bowls of politics, MGR’s was a gradual manoeuvre, unlike that of the new stars. While being the glamourous messenger of the DMK’s ideologies to the masses, MGR was being politically educated, so much that when he rebelled and launched his own party, the ADMK, on October 17, 1972, he could hit the ground running.

The socio-political fabric, too, was conducive. More from the 2002 story: The DMK was being seen as a party predominantly of such castes as mudaliars and vellalars. Other castes such as kallars, mukkulathor and dalits were getting an inferior treatment in the DMK and it was only natural for them to rally behind the ADMK (which became the AIADMK on September 12, 1976). For MGR, turning his fan clubs into party units was a breeze. It may not be so for Rajini or Kamal.

arun.ram@timesgroup.com

We have delivered whatever we have promised.

— Edappadi Palaniswami, CHIEF MINISTER

POKER FACE Now you make me laugh

Officials can’t be posted in home dists: EC

Officials can’t be posted in home dists: EC

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Chennai:21.12.2020

The Election Commission has issued an advisory on postings and transfers of officials in the states, including Tamil Nadu, where assembly elections are scheduled to take place next year.

The advisory, which was issued ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, bars the state governments from posting officials to their home districts or where they have already served for a long period.

Officials should not be posted in their home districts or in places where they served long years.

Officials should not have served for three years in the last four years or completing three years on or before May 31, 2021, the advisory said.

Officials against whom the commission had recommended disciplinary action in the past and which is pending or which has resulted in a penalty should not be posted for any election related duties, the advisory said.

50% drop in inquiries from state for medical seats in univs abroad

50% drop in inquiries from state for medical seats in univs abroad

Covid-Induced Financial Crisis, Travel Restrictions Are Reasons For Less Interest

Ragu.Raman@timesgroup.com

Chennai:21.12.2020

Every year in Tamil Nadu, after the first round of medical counselling, students rush to book a seat in foreign universities. This year, delayed medical counselling, the Covid-induced financial crisis and travel restrictions have brought down the number of inquiries for study abroad.

With NEET 2021 only a few months away, many students have begun cancelling admissions to give the entrance test another try.

The number of inquiries for medical admissions has come down by more than 50% in most countries, educational consultants said. R Sureshkumar, managing director of Chennai-based Truematics - Overseas Education Consultancy, said only students with low NEET scores have confirmed admissions.

Countries like the Philippines and Ukraine have another admission window in January.

Many consultancies have opted out of doing admissions to universities in China, which was one of the top destinations for Indian students, due to travel restrictions.

A Mahendran, managing director of Foreign Students Study Centre in Trichy, said there was still no clarity over when the flight services and physical classes would resume. “It discourages students and parents. Despite the still raging Covid-19 pandemic, students are still interested in studying medicine in China due to the quality of medical education offered and the lower cost,” he said. Last year, the Medical Council of India (MCI) approved 45 universities in China.

D Subhas Chandrabose, managing director of St John’s Educare India Private Limited, said many students wanted to give another try, with NEET 2021 only six months away.

“Due to online classes and travel restrictions, we are also experiencing cancellations of admissions,” he said, adding that his consultancy was guiding students seeking admissions to universities in Philippines, Jamaica and Kazakhstan.

However, there is not a big change in the admission trend to Russian universities.

“Since more students have cleared NEET, we expected admissions to increase two-fold. But there is only a slight increase in admissions to Russian universities compared to last year,” said C Ravichandran, managing director, Study Abroad Educational Consultants.

While deemed universities in India charge between ₹1 crore and ₹1.25 crore, it would cost around ₹35 lakh in several foreign universities, with institutions in countries like Malaysia charging around ₹80 lakh.

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No isolation zone needed on int’l flights under 4 hours

No isolation zone needed on int’l flights under 4 hours

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Mumbai:19.12.2020

As air travel gets increasingly safer with norms like mandatory testing for Covid, airlines have begun seeking relaxation of certain norms. Following a request from Air India, the ministry of civil aviation has now removed the requirement of an isolation zone inside aircraft for flights under four hours.

Under the ministry’s standard operating procedures (SOP), when Air India restarted international flights in May, the last row had to be reserved as quarantine area and so the seats had to be left vacant.

However in the recent months, with Covid testing emerging as a mandatory requirement for international passengers, the probability of a passenger developing and showing symptoms on board the flight has reduced. In the last week of November, the Air India chairman and managing director sought the relaxation of that norm for all international flights.

In an office memorandum issued on December 16, the ministry amended the said norm to allow flights with duration of four hours or less to be operated without such a quarantine area. Airlines operating international flights, like Mumbai-Dubai, for instance, don’t need to block the last row three seats from now.

“Airline shall carry sufficient number of PPE kits to be provided to passengers who develop symptoms while in flight,” the ministry order said.

Use Ayush docs for clinical work and you could lose accreditation: NABH to hosps

Use Ayush docs for clinical work and you could lose accreditation: NABH to hosps

Rema.Nagarajan@timesgroup.com

19.12.2020

The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare providers (NABH) has warned allopathic hospitals accredited with it that they could face withdrawal of accreditation if they were found employing Ayush doctors for performing clinical duties in ICUs and other patient care areas in place of MBBS resident medical officers (RMOs) and emergency doctors.

A “cautionary notice” the board issued on Thursday said, “This is a blatant violation of NABH standards for healthcare accreditation and very much against patient safety norms and compromise quality of modern medicine clinical care outcomes.” TOI had, in October, reported on the use of Ayush doctors in ICUs for night duty being a fairly common practice in many private hospitals, particularly in Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Thursday’s notice stated that the NABH has taken a serious note of the matter and reiterated that deploying of Ayush doctors in allopathic hospitals for writing independent orders and clinical work without the supervision of allopathic doctors is not permitted. In case the allopathic hospitals are employing such doctors to work as clinical assistants, under applicable state laws, they should not be involved in direct patient care and should strictly follow job responsibilities as defined by hospital management, it added.

Ayush doctors working in allopathic hospitals will not be considered by the NABH as RMOs during the process of assessment and for the purpose of grant of accreditation, stated the notice, adding that any violation may invite adverse decision by NABH, including withdrawal of accreditation.

However, even as the NABH has been carrying out surprise inspections in hospitals in this matter, it is yet to have a definite list of states that allow Ayush doctors to be employed in allopathic hospitals to either prescribe a pre-defined set of allopathic medicines or to do clinical procedures after completing a bridge course.

NABH officials clarified that the board’s legal team was in the process of determining the status of the law in different states.

காலமுறை ஊதிய உயர்வு அரசு டாக்டர்கள் மனு

DINAMALAR

கோர்ட் செய்தி 

தமிழ்நாடு

காலமுறை ஊதிய உயர்வு அரசு டாக்டர்கள் மனு

Added : டிச 18, 2020 23:40

சென்னை:காலமுறை ஊதிய உயர்வு வழங்க வலியுறுத்தி, சுகாதாரத் துறை கூடுதல் செயலரிடம், அரசு டாக்டர்களுக்கான சட்ட போராட்டக் குழு தலைவர் பெருமாள் பிள்ளை மனு அளித்துள்ளார்.

மனுவில் கூறியுள்ளதாவது:தமிழக அரசு டாக்டர்கள், காலமுறை ஊதிய உயர்வு கோரி, பல ஆண்டுகளாக போராடி வருகிறோம். தற்போது, காலமுறை ஊதிய உயர்வு, நோயாளிகள் எண்ணிக்கைக்கு ஏற்ப டாக்டர்கள் நியமனம், பட்ட மேற்படிப்புகளில், அரசு டாக்டர்களுக்கு, 50 சதவீத ஒதுக்கீடு.மேற்படிப்பு டாக்டர்களுக்கு கவுன்சிலிங் முறையில் பணி ஒதுக்கீடு போன்ற, நான்கு அம்ச கோரிக்கைகளை வலியுறுத்தி, எட்டு டாக்டர்கள், சென்னை உயர் நீதிமன்றத்தில் வழக்கு தொடர்ந்துள்ளோம்.

இந்த வழக்கு விசாரணைக்கு வர உள்ள நிலையில், அதற்கு முன்னதாகவே, டாக்டர்களின் நியாயமான கோரிக்கையை, அரசு ஏற்க வேண்டும். குறிப்பாக,கொரோனா காலம் என்பதால், போராட்டத்தில் ஈடுபட்டால், பொது மக்கள் பாதிக்கப்படுவர். அதனால், நீதிமன்றத்தை அணுகி உள்ளோம்.தற்போது, 2,000 'மினி கிளினிக்' திட்டத்தை, தமிழக அரசு செயல்படுத்துகிறது. இதபோன்ற பல்வேறு திட்டங்களுக்கும், சாதனைகளுக்கும், டாக்டர்கள் துணையாக இருக்கிறோம். எனவே, எங்கள் கோரிக்கையை நிறைவேற்ற வேண்டும்.இவ்வாறு, அதில் கூறப்பட்டுள்ளது.

'நீட்' தேர்வு தில்லுமுல்லு: மாணவி, டாக்டரை கைது செய்ய முடிவு

DINAMALAR

தமிழ்நாடு

'நீட்' தேர்வு தில்லுமுல்லு: மாணவி, டாக்டரை கைது செய்ய முடிவு

Added : டிச 19, 2020 02:08

சென்னை:'நீட்' தேர்வு போலி மதிப்பெண் சான்றிதழ் அளித்து, மருத்துவ கல்லுாரியில் சேர முயன்ற வழக்கில், மாணவி மற்றும் அவரது தந்தையான பல் டாக்டரை கைது செய்ய, போலீசார் முடிவு செய்தனர்.

ராமநாதபுரம் மாவட்டம், பரமக்குடியை சேர்ந்தவர் பாலசந்திரன். இவரது மகள் தீக் ஷா, 18. இவர், சென்னை, நேரு விளையாட்டு அரங்கில், எம்.பி.பி.எஸ்., - பி.டி.எஸ்., படிப்பில் மாணவர்களை சேர்ப்பதற்கான கவுன்சிலிங்கில் பங்கேற்றார். தந்தையுடன் கவுன்சிலிங்கிற்கு வந்திருந்த மாணவி தீக் ஷா அளித்த, நீட் தேர்வு மதிப்பெண் சான்றிதழ் போலி என, தெரியவந்தது.

இதுகுறித்து, மருத்துவ மாணவர் சேர்க்கை செயலர் செல்வராஜன், பெரியமேடு காவல் நிலையத்தில் புகார் அளித்தார். பாலசந்திரன், தீக் ஷா ஆகியோர் மீது மோசடி உள்பட, ஆறு பிரிவுகளில் வழக்கு பதிவு செய்துள்ளனர். விசாரணைக்கு நேரில் ஆஜராக வேண்டும் என, இரண்டு முறை, 'சம்மன்' அனுப்பியும் வரவில்லை.அதனால், இருவரையும் கைது செய்து, சட்டத்தின் முன் நிறுத்த, போலீசார் முடிவு செய்துள்ளனர்.

நிர்வாக ஒதுக்கீடு:இன்று முதல் கவுன்சிலிங்

DINAMALAR

நிர்வாக ஒதுக்கீடு:இன்று முதல் கவுன்சிலிங்

Added : டிச 18, 2020 23:38

சென்னை:சுயநிதி மருத்துவக் கல்லுாரிகளில், நிர்வாக ஒதுக்கீட்டில் உள்ள, எம்.பி.பி.எஸ்., - பி.டி.எஸ்., இடங்களுக்கான கவுன்சிலிங், இன்று துவங்குகிறது.

எம்.பி.பி.எஸ்., - பி.டி.எஸ்., மருத்துவக் படிப்புகளில், 2020 -21ம் கல்வியாண்டுக்கான மாணவர் சேர்க்கை, சென்னை, நேரு விளையாட்டரங்கில் நடந்து வருகிறது. அரசு ஒதுக்கீட்டுக்கான முதற்கட்ட கவுன்சிலிங் நடந்து முடிந்துள்ளது.இதையடுத்து, ஈரோடு, பெருந்துறை, ஐ.ஆர்.டி., மருத்துவக் கல்லுாரிகளில், போக்குவரத்து ஊழியர்களின் வாரிசுகளுக்கான இடங்கள்; வேலுார் சி.எம்சி., கல்லுாரியில், சிறுபான்மையினர் இடங்களுக்கான கவுன்சிலிங் முடிந்துள்ளது.

இந்நிலையில், சுயநிதி மருத்துவக் கல்லுாரிகளில் நிர்வாக ஒதுக்கீட்டில் உள்ள, 952 எம்.பி.பி.எஸ்., மற்றும் 695 பி.டி.எஸ்., பல் மருத்துவப் படிப்பு இடங்களுக்கான கவுன்சிலிங், இன்று முதல், 23ம் தேதி வரை நடைபெற உள்ளது.நாளை, ஞாயிற்றுக்கிழமை என்பதால் விடுமுறை அறிவிக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது.

Case against in-laws for not giving promised assets to woman

Case against in-laws for not giving promised assets to woman

TNN | Dec 19, 2020, 04.32 AM IST

Madurai: The Karupayurani police have registered a case against the in-laws of a woman whose husband, affected by AIDS, died by suicide. The 25-year-old woman in her complaint had accused her late husband’s parents and siblings of going back on their promise and refusing to give her their property.

According to the FIR registered on Thursday, the in-laws had hidden the fact that their son was affected by HIV and got her married to him in September, 2016. The woman, who came to know about it at a later stage questioned her husband and his parents for hiding it from her. They apologised to her and also promised to give her a share of their property.

Since she was pregnant she had gone to her parent’s place. Meanwhile, on March 10, 2017, her husband committed suicide by self-immolation. The woman claimed that her in-laws did not inform her about her husband’s death and even after three years they had not kept the promise of giving her their property.

Based on the directions of the additional mahila court, the in-laws who are residents of Varichur were booked under sections 498(a) (husband or his relative subjecting woman to cruelty), 406 (punishment for criminal breach of trust) and 417 (punishment for cheating) of the IPC.

Post-Covid OPDs witness steady stream of patients

Post-Covid OPDs witness steady stream of patients

TNN | Dec 19, 2020, 04.37 AM IST

Madurai: Even as the number of fresh Covid-19 cases are seeing a decline across the state, including Madurai, recovered patients are turning up in numbers at the post Covid-19 wellness centres in both government and private hospitals. While fatigue is the most common condition reported by patients post recovery, some patients have had more serious lung and cardiac-related issues.

According to doctors, around 5-10% of recovered patients show symptoms or develop conditions. At the Government Rajaji Hospital (GRH), doctors are following up with patients over phone, encouraging them to come for check-up. “We call up around 100-150 patients in a day, usually a week after they are discharged and follow up in case of symptoms. Around 50% of recovered patients are coming in.”

“Patients who had 80% of lung involvement often develop lung fibrosis or scarring. Low oxygen saturation levels and vascular issues are also reported,” said a senior doctor at GRH. In a few cases, patients have suffered severe conditions like stroke or heart attack as well. “The elderly and those with co-morbid conditions must come for follow-ups post recovery. Patients who remain oxygen-dependent even after recovery must also come for reviews. Anti-coagulants are also given to some patients post recovery and they may be at risk of vascular issues if they suddenly stop the medicines or avoid follow-ups,” the doctor added.

“Fatigue is the most common condition reported. This fatigue is chronic and can affect patients from going about their regular work. Chronic cough and breathing difficulties are also common,” said Dr Padma Prakash Gandhiraj, chief intensivist and clinical administrator for critical care unit, Apollo Hospitals, Madurai. The doctor further said that some patients are also suffering brain-related issues like short term memory loss, loss of concentration, and decline in cognitive abilities. “Scarring of lung tissue and decline in cardiac functions is being seen in both elderly as well as younger patients. We are now seeing some patients who were in home isolation, turning to the post Covid-19 wellness clinic,” he added.

“We had some cases of even viral infection and cardiac issues initially. As cases have come down, now fewer people are turning up for post are. We are trying to encourage and educate patients to come for follow-ups,” said Dr B Kannan, medical administrator, Meenakshi Mission Hospital and Research Centre.

Govt middle school students to get free tablet PCs: Min

Govt middle school students to get free tablet PCs: Min

Dec 19, 2020, 04.44 AM IST

Trichy: Tablet computers will be given to three lakh government school students from classes VI to VIII to enhance their learning experience, said school education minister K A Sengottaiyan during an event organised to distribute recognition letters to private nursery and primary schools in Trichy on Friday. An announcement in this regard is expected by January 20, he added.

The state government has also decided to create the post of trainers in 7,042 Atal tinkering labs which is equipped with 3D printer and computers and were created across schools under a central scheme to make children future innovators, he said.

He said that an aspirant with 152 NEET score cannot secure a medical seat in any state other than Tamil Nadu because of the 7.5% reservation introduced by state government to uphold the principles of social justice.

On reopening of schools, Sengottaiyan said that saving lives of children is the priority for the government and a decision will be taken after consultation with stakeholders.

Addressing members of private schools, he said the state government understands the issues faced by the self-financing schools due to Covid-19. Therefore, the government has released Rs 370 crore in advance to private schools for the seats filled under right to education (RTE) Act. “The state government is committed towards giving permanent recognition to private schools for smooth functioning,” he said.

The minister said that the revised state board curriculum has set an example for other states to follow as even civil services aspirants in north India are referring to Tamil Nadu text books for preparation.

Students battle rain to take answer scripts to college

Students battle rain to take answer scripts to college

Dec 19, 2020, 04.44 AM IST

Trichy: With online semester examination in colleges affiliated to Bharathidasan University (BDU) starting on Monday, the ongoing rain has been putting students to hardship in submitting answer scripts in their respective colleges. While the question paper is sent to students through mail, they have to write the exam at home on plain paper and submit the answer scripts in colleges within three hours.

Since incessant rain has been lashing the region in the last two days, students have been finding it difficult to reach their colleges on time with the answer scripts. They have urged the university to accept soft copies of the answer scripts through mail which will help them save time and money.

S Sharmila, a UG student of Lalgudi on the outskirts of Trichy, came all the way to her relative’s place in the city to appear for the online semester examination. Since her college is in the city, it may not be possible for her to submit the answer scripts on time if she took the exam at her home. On Thursday, she had to hire a taxi from her relative’s place to reach the college to submit the answer script due to the rain.

“Some of the outstation students are forced to rent a house near the college to appear for the exam. When the colleges have already collected fee for examination including stationery charges, students are made to spend extra money by coming to college. Most students hail from poor families and are finding it tough to meet the expenses,” said S Subramanian, a parent.

BDU registrar G Gopinath said online submission of answer scripts was a failure during the end semester examination as students were found uploading the wrong files. Therefore, they chose to keep it offline. Since some students are facing issues, the university administration will look into them and find alternatives, he said.

Autonomous colleges have instructed students to send the soft copies of the answer scripts through mail. But the affiliated colleges of the university have asked students to submit them in person after completing them. P Jerold, a first year student of MSc Psychology in an autonomous college in Trichy, said they appeared for the online examination from their homes, but didn’t have to go to colleges to submit the answer scripts.

AIIMS land handed over, says TN in Madras HC; Centre accepts it

AIIMS land handed over, says TN in Madras HC; Centre accepts it

Dec 19, 2020, 04.40 AM IST

Madurai: Putting an end to the political wrangling over handing over of land earmarked for construction of AIIMS in Madurai to the Union government, the state on Friday told the Madurai bench of the Madras high court that it had handed over the land to the Centre. Assistant solicitor general L Victoria Gowri, central counsel, confirmed the same in the court.

Recording the submissions, a bench of Justices N Kirubakaran and B Pugalendhi asked additional advocate general K Chellapandian, appearing for the state, to take action against the official who had furnished wrong RTI information stating that the land was yet to be handed over by the state government. The court was hearing a PIL that latched onto the RTI reply to seek speeding up of work to establish the premier institution.

K Chellapandian told the court that after the PM laid the foundation stone for the construction of AIIMS, the Centre had sought enter-upon permission on June 7, 2019. The next month, proposals were sent to the commissioner of land administration to transfer the land.

He further stated that on September 9, 2019, the collector passed an order according permission to enter upon the 200 acres of land. The ministry of health sent a communication seeking an additional 22.49 acres of land and the same was identified and permission granted to enter upon. He stated that after the central government sought to hand over the land in August this year, handing over certificate was prepared and sent to the central government for signing and returning the same on November 3. The letter for handing over the land was sent to the central government on November 6, said the AAG.

Assistant Solicitor General L Victoria Gowri confirmed that the state government had handed over the land for construction of AIIMS. A meeting was conducted in this regard with a fact finding mission of the funding agency, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) from November 24 to 26. She said that the next stage would be signing of a loan agreement before March 31, 2021, after which the project would be commissioned.

Taking cognizance of the submissions, the bench asked the central government to show more interest in the project.

Covid vaccination is voluntary, says govt ‘Even Those Recovered Advised To Get Inoculated’

PREPARING FOR THE VACCINE

Covid vaccination is voluntary, says govt

‘Even Those Recovered Advised To Get Inoculated’

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

New Delhi:19.12.2020

Even those who have recovered from Covid-19 are advised to receive the complete schedule of Covid vaccine irrespective of their past history of infection, the health ministry said and emphasised that this would help in developing a strong immune response against the disease.

While the Centre is working with state governments to identify people under different categories who will receive the vaccine in the first phase, beneficiaries will have to mandatorily register themselves with a photo ID for the vaccination. Once registered, they will receive information about the session and site to visit on their registered mobile number.

But those with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 infection will be asked to defer vaccination for 14 days after symptoms resolution as they may increase the risk of spreading the disease to others at the vaccination site. Getting vaccinated for Covid-19 will be voluntary, the ministry said, adding the vaccine introduced in India will be as effective as any developed by other countries.

“ It is advisable to receive the complete schedule of the vaccine for protecting oneself against this disease and also to limit the spread to close contacts including family members, friends, relatives and co-workers,” the ministry said while listing out a series of frequently asked questions on Covid-19 vaccine. To complete the vaccination schedule, an individual will be required to take two doses of the vaccine 28 days apart. While the regulator is examining three applications for emergency use authorisation, the government said it is geared to launch a vaccine soon.

Six vaccines are in different stages of clinical trials in India. On which vaccine is likely to be more effective, the health ministry said all the vaccines that receive licence will have comparable safety and efficacy.

Full report on www.toi.in

Covid-hit Rlys lost 70% of revenue

The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the Indian railways in more than one way in the past nine months. While it’s staring at barely Rs 15,000 crore revenue from the passenger segment, which is barely 30% of what it earned during 2019-20, at least 30,000 of its employees were infected by the virus.

Railway Board chief executive officer and Chairman V K Yadav also said that there had been some unfortunate death of railway employees due to the pandemic. TNN

‘Can’t jail people for infinity while looking for others’

‘Can’t jail people for infinity while looking for others’

New Delhi:19.12.2020

Applicants cannot be made to remain in jail for infinity merely on account of the fact that other persons who were part of the mob have to be identified and arrested, a Delhi court said while granting bail to two men lodged in jail since April after being held for rioting. “Needless to say, the investigation is complete; chargesheet has also been filed; trial is likely to take a long time,” additional sessions judge Vinod Yadav said. Dinesh Tiwari, counsel for Shah Alam and Riyasat Ali, had sought bail on the ground of parity with co-accused. TNN

‘No FIR or any specific charge against accused’

It also came on record that Alam is the brother of former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain, the main accused. Accused counsel Dinesh Tiwari argued that the accused had been identified by the witnesses for they belonged to a particular community.

He also highlighted that after completing the investigation, police had filed a chargesheet. “No useful purpose would be served by keeping them behind bars, as the trial in the matter is likely to take a long time,” submitted Tiwari.

Special public prosecutor Manoj Chaudhary contested the submission by saying that the two men had been identified by the witnesses and therefore they couldn’t take the plea of parity.

HC: Passport can’t be denied if only FIR filed

HC: Passport can’t be denied if only FIR filed

Ajay.Sura@timesgroup.com

Chandigarh:19.12.2020

The Punjab and Haryana high court had made it clear that the passport authorities cannot refuse or cancel a passport merely on the ground of registration of a FIR unless the criminal matter has reached the court of law. The high court directed the passport authorities to issue a passport to a resident of Haryana’s Rewari who was denied passport after a criminal case was found to be registered against him during police verification.

“It is a settled position that the passport authorities cannot refuse or cancel a passport merely on the ground of registration of a FIR. Sections 6 (2)

(f) and10 (3) of the Passport Act, 1967, provide that such refusal/ revocationis to be invoked only in the event of proceedings in respect of an offence alleged to have been committed by the applicant are pending before a criminal court in India,” observed Justice Lisa Gill.

Reason For Denial

The petitioner, 23, had applied for a passport on September 26, 2020. However, due to the pendency of an FIR against him, it was not issued to him

PASSPORT

HC tells petitioner to submit detailed fresh application

The HC passed the order while disposing of a petition filed by Yogesh Kumar of Rewari who had sought directions for issuance of passport.

The counsel appearing for the Union government pointed out that in the application for issuance of a passport submitted by the petitioner, pendency of FIR has not been mentioned. It was only on police verification that the same came to light.

The passport authorities were well within their right to deny the passport to the petitioner.

On this, the counsel for the petitioner submitted that the application form was filled at a cybercafé with help of a person there. It is due to this reason that the pendency of FIR was not mentioned. He, however, added that no permission from the trial court was required as charge against the petitioner has not been framed.

After hearing both the parties, the HC observed that admittedly, in the present case, cognizance of the FIR has not been taken by the criminal court. “The provisions thus do not come into effect. The petitioner can, therefore, not be refused a passport on the sole ground that FIR stands registered against him.”

“Keeping in view the facts and circumstances as above, it is directed that in case, the petitioner submits a fresh application giving the entire requisite details, the concerned Regional Passport Officer, shall consider the said application in accordance with law while taking into account the aforementioned legal position... In case, the application is submitted within one week, necessary action thereon, shall be taken within two weeks, thereafter. It is made clear that in case the petitioner needs to travel on the said passport, it would be subject to orders of the court of competent jurisdiction in respect to the FIR registered against him,” observed the HC while asking the passport authorities to issue him fresh passport.

Man held for selling same plot of land three times

Man held for selling same plot of land three times

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Bhopal:19.12.2020

A man, identified as Nandkishore, allegedly sold a plot of land to three different people for around Rs17 lakh.

According to police, complainants Vinod Kumar Thakur, a resident of Jehangirabad and Akhilesh Dwivedi, a resident of Soubhagya Nagar Govindpura, stated in their complaints that Chhoti Bai, mother of accused Nandkishore Lodhi, a resident of Maholi village, sold a plot of land to Akhilesh Dwivedi for Rs7 lakh in 2017. Later, the accused Nandkishore sold the same plot to Vinod Kumar for Rs5 lakh in January 2020, and sold it once again to Heeralal Jatav for Rs5 lakh in July. Acting on two victims’ complaints, police registered a case of fraud and arrested the accused. He was produced before the court from where he was sent to jail.

Students complain of mask irritation, docs suggest small breaks

Students complain of mask irritation, docs suggest small breaks

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Bhopal:19.12.2020

Wearing a mask for long hours during school time was an irritant for several students on Friday. Doctors have suggested that students can remove masks for a few seconds whenever they feel itching or irritation. However, this can be done only when people around them are at a 6-feet distance or no one is around. Doctors have specifically recommended wearing masks and practising hand hygiene for students attending schools.

For parents, the biggest concern is the safety of the students. Schools have opted several measures to follow the Covid guidelines like physical distancing and sanitisers across the campus. Nevertheless, the biggest concern was asking students to wear a mask throughout the school hours.

“I have been using masks regularly ever since the pandemic surfaced. But, wearing masks for long hours during school was somewhat irritating. I do not know what to do in such a situation. I will ask my parents after school is over,” said a student, Bharti Verma.

For such children, doctors suggested that they can remove the mask for a few minutes only when the other person is at least 6 feet away.

“There is no excuse when it comes to wearing masks. However, it is also true that children may get irritated after wearing them for long hours. In such a situation, they can remove it for a few minutes when people are at a 6-feet distance. During other times, students will have to wear masks,” said Dr Rakeh Sukheja.

He added that hand hygiene is a must. “Wearing masks and hand hygiene is the need of the hour. Keep doing this regularly,” said Dr Sukheja.

Notably, schools have formed teams to monitor the students. “Teams will ensure that students must follow the Covid norms properly. They will report the management daily about their monitoring,” said Babu Thomas, secretary, Association of Private Un-aided Schools.

Students wait for their class to begin at Kamla Nehru School on Friday

No high fives, no huddles: Students warned for flouting distancing norms

CAUTION YES PANIC NO

No high fives, no huddles: Students warned for flouting distancing norms

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Bhopal:  19.12.2020

Coming in groups and high-fiving each other were some of the errant behaviour among students that were spotted on Day 1of schools reopening.

While schools have made all possible arrangements on

the campus, in a few institutions, students were found not following the Covid norms. School administrations warned the students several times to follow physical distancing norms and keep the mask on their faces.

“We have no control over the students before they reach the school. What they have done on the way can’t be controlled by the schools. For that, parents have to ensure that their children follow the instructions,” said a school owner, not wishing to be named.

In a few schools, students were spotted high-fiving each other inside the classrooms. “Children were instructed that they can’t touch each other in any situation. Students agreed to follow the instructions after they were informed that they can’t even high-five,” said a school teacher.

It was also noticed that students came in groups and scattered in front of their school gates. When asked about it, a student tried to avoid the question.

In order to ensure that the students follow the Covid norms, several parents went to drop their children. “I can’t take any kind of risk. These are children who have come out to attend school after a long time. Outside the school, as a father I am taking care of her and inside I hope school management will do the same,” said Neeta Rane, a mother.

Parents said that for practical learning, students need to send their children to the schools. “It is true that I can’t keep our children at home as this year she has to appear for class 12 boards. For practical purposes, they need to attend school. I think it is the responsibility of both parents and schools to ensure that students must follow the Covid norms,” said Anay Sisodia, father of a student.

Students stand in groups in front of a school in Bhopal on Friday

Online side-effect: Writing not quite right

Online side-effect: Writing not quite right

Ramendra.Singh@timesgroup.com

Bhopal:19.12.2020

Students attending school after a gap of 10 months displayed one major problem — poor writing habit. Teachers advised them to improve their writing, otherwise they would face problems in higher classes.

With the opening of schools, even teachers were spotted in a new uniform — wearing masks and gloves. On Day 1 of schools reopening, most teachers had to motivate students to resume their writing habits.

Teachers said that class 9 to 12 are crucial for school students. “After completing class 8, syllabus of students change suddenly. They have to make notes and put extra effort in writing. But the online classes have made them stay way from writing. When students attended classes on Friday, it was noticed they they were avoiding writing,” said a teacher, not wishing to be named.

The teacher said that such a habit will land students in trouble. “Students must resume their writing habits. They have to make bigger notes in higher classes and if they lose their writing habit, it will be a big issue for them,” said another teacher.

Even students admitted that they were losing the writing habit. “Online classes are of shorter time. There was no way for teachers to check notebooks as they were focused on completing the course. As writing was very limited, it has become a little problem while attending class and start writing again,” said a student, Akshay Raj.

Schools are now planning to focus on the writing habits of the students. “Schools can start such classes as writing habits are important for students. Even during online classes, students can keep working on their writing,” said a teacher.

It is to be noted that the school education department has allowed online classes for students who do not want to attend classes.

New search committee to be formed for Vidyapith VC post

New search committee to be formed for Vidyapith VC post

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Ahmedabad:19.12.2020

After a controversy erupted over the appointment of a new vicechancellor of Gujarat Vidyapith, questions are being raised about the appointment of the members in the selection committee itself.

This committee, entrusted with identifying the next vice-chancellor, flouted some rules in the appointment of its members. The controversy comes as the varsity, founded by Mahatma Gandhi, is in its 100th year.

The four-member selection committee appointed by Vidyapith trustees consisted of only three members and the fourth member, to be nominated by the University Grants Commission (UGC), had not been brought on board, sources in Gujarat Vidyapith said.

“The UGC has now ordered a new search committee to be formed,” a source said.

Questions are also being raised on whether the current members were appointed legally.

The selection committee had recently recommended the name of former Vidyapith registrar, Rajendra Khimani, for the vice chancellor’s post. The term of the present vicechancellor, Anamik Shah, ends on December 31.

There is growing uncertainty over the candidature of Khimani and whether he can take charge as the new VC on January 1, or if the appointment is challenged, can he re-apply for the post. The next available option is to select the next best candidate of the three names that were initially proposed, sources said.

Mobiles have longer reach than missiles: Rajnath

Mobiles have longer reach than missiles: Rajnath

Chandigarh:19.12.2020

Apparently referring to the impact of social media in conflicts between nations, defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said the reach of the mobile phone now was bigger than that of a missile. Addressing the annual Military Literature Festival here, Singh warned that different kinds of security threats may emerge in the future.

“This event is important from another point of view,” he said through videoconference. “As times change, the nature of threats and wars is also changing. In the future, other security-related issues may come before us.”

He added that conflicts are gradually becoming “comprehensive” in the manner never imagined earlier. Possibly alluding to the power of social media and mobile apps, he said, “Today the range of a mobile has crossed even the reach of a missile,” he said.

He added that the enemy can now reach people even without crossing any borders, and urged everyone to play the role of a soldier. “We should remain alive to these dangers and save ourselves from wrong and misleading information and save others too, and festivals like this can play a key role in this,” he said, urging literary figures to make use of their talent to the full for this. PTI

Woman sues dentist for botched procedure, wins ₹60,000 relief Suffered Severe Pain, Swelling

CONSUMER IS KING

Woman sues dentist for botched procedure, wins ₹60,000 relief

Suffered Severe Pain, Swelling

Petlee.Peter@timesgroup.com

Bengaluru:19.12.2020

A 34-year-old woman took a dentist to the consumer court after her root canal procedure went awry, resulting in an infection, swelling of the gum and excruciating pain. Following a court battle which lasted nearly three years, Fatemah Razmjouei recently won a compensation of Rs 60,000.

In July 2017, Fatemah, a resident of Banashankari III Stage, suffered from severe tooth and gum ache. She approached Dr Diwakar’s private clinic in the locality and sought preliminary treatment. The dentist recommended a root canal procedure, which was carried out at his clinic on July 18. Fatemah was asked to visit again later to fix a tooth cap. But within a few days, she developed an infection, for which the doctor gave her a few medicines.

With the situation persisting, the dentist recommended Fatemah go for a CT scan, from which it became evident that something had gone wrong with the root canal procedure. Fatemah next approached a private hospital, where dentists asked her to immediately remove the filling done as part of the procedure. She also visited the dental facility at St Martha’s Hospital, where doctors confirmed incorrect drilling on the right side of the mouth. She had to undergo a fresh surgery and subsequent treatment to recover completely.

Infuriated by the episode, the Bengaluru woman sent a legal notice to Dr Diwakar and sought Rs 10 lakh in damages for the botched-up procedure. On January 24, 2018, Fatemah filed a complaint with Bangalore 2nd Additional Urban District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.

During the litigation, Fatemah presented her case through her lawyer. The dentist’s attorney argued that Fatemah had created a ruckus at the clinic and that Dr Diwakar had refunded Rs 3,700 to her. The attorney further claimed the court case was an attempt at making illegal gain as there was no threat to the tooth, as claimed.

In the proceedings that lasted 34 months, judges of the city consumer forum examined the records presented and determined that there was indeed negligence on the part of the dentist while performing the surgery. But the court didn’t encourage other claims of the complainant, including possible loss of tooth and weight loss because of the procedure, as she failed to produce proof to substantiate the same.

In a verdict pronounced on November 24, 2020, the judges ruled that the dentist must pay Fatemah a compensation of Rs 50,000 for negligence, apart from Rs 10,000 towards her litigation expenses, all payable within 60 days of the verdict.

A CT scan showed something had gone wrong with the root canal procedure Fatemah underwent at a BSK clinic. She later visited the dental facility at St Martha’s Hospital, where doctors confirmed incorrect drilling on right side of the mouth

HC: Change of name part of right to expression under Constitution

HC: Change of name part of right to expression under Constitution

Rajesh Kumar Pandey TNN

Prayagraj: 19.12.2020

The Allahabad high court has held that change of name is a part of right to expression guaranteed under Article Article 19

(1) (a) of the Constitution of India.

Allowing a writ petition filed by one Kabir Jaiswal, Justice Pankaj Bhatia observed, “As the right to freedom of expression is guaranteed under Article 19 (1) (a) of the Constitution, freedom of expression through the change of name cannot be denied to the petitioner in the present case and he is entitled to change his name.”

The court also directed the CBSE to issue a fresh certificate recording the name of the petitioner as Kabir Jaiswal in place of Rishu Jaiswal within a period of two months.

According to the petitioner, he had appeared in the Secondary School Examination in the academic year 2011-13, i.e., Class X, and Senior School Certificate Examination in the year 2015, i.e., Class XII, conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education, Delhi in the name of Rishu Jaiswal, son of Santosh Kumar Jaiswal and had passed the examinations also.

Later, the petitioner with an intent to change his name from Rishu Jaiswal to Kabir Jaiswal, got a notice published in the notification in the Gazette of India and moved an application for correction of the name from Rishu Jaiswal to Kabir Jaiwal. In the petition, the petitioner claims that the name was changed in the Aadhaar card and the PAN card also in pursuance to the Gazette Notification.

However, when the petitioner moved an application through the school concerned for change of name in the certificates, granted by the CBSE, the school in question forwarded the request to the Board and the Board vide order dated May 27, 2020, rejected the application for change of name on the ground that the particulars of the school records do not show the change of name as sought by the petitioner.

Rape-Marriage Promise Can't Be Called Inducement When Sexual Activity Continues Over Indefinite Period Of Time: Delhi High Court

Rape-Marriage Promise Can't Be Called Inducement When Sexual Activity Continues Over Indefinite Period Of Time: Delhi High Court: 'The talks of Marriage took place between accused & prosecutrix after they entered into an intimate physical relationship.'

FASTag to take heavy toll on motorists without Aadhaar

FASTag to take heavy toll on motorists without Aadhaar

Notification in November made card must for purchasing FASTag

Published: 16th December 2020 05:09 AM |

By B Anbuselvan

Express News Service

CHENNAI: With the Centre making FASTag, an electronic toll collection system, mandatory for all four-wheelers running on National Highways (NH) toll plazas from January 1, motorists who are yet to get Aadhaar, which is a prerequisite for getting the FASTag, are expected to be penalised heavily. Although the Supreme Court ordered that Aadhaar should be made compulsory only for availing benefits from the government, union government has made it mandatory for purchasing the FASTag ID. 

Activists rued that motorists who did not have Aadhaar or not willing to share their Aadhaar will be put through hardship for using national highways. To this effect, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways issued a notification in November, amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. To get FASTag, motorists had to submit a copy of Aadhaar, vehicle registration certification, bank account, and mobile number. 

Representatives of FASTag suppliers said, “For filling the electronic KYC (Know Your Customer) form in ‘myfastag’ application, Aadhaar is mandatory. Without getting validated through Aadhaar, the FASTag account will not get linked with bank account, which will allow the user to recharge the amount.”Retired IAS officer MG Devasagayam, who was one of the petitioners of the case in Supreme Court against linking Aadhaar with bank accounts said making it compulsory was illegal, unconstitutional, and amounted to contempt of court.

“The apex court clearly said Aadhaar should always be optional unless the person was a beneficiary of the government scheme. The High Courts and Supreme Court should exercise their powers when the judicial orders are disobeyed blatantly.” Aimed at reducing cash handling at the toll gate, the e-payment system was introduced in tollgates maintained by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) since December 15 last year. The NHAI said non-FASTag vehicles would be charged double the user fee.

Following a stiff resistance from a section of truck owners, NHAI converted 25 per cent of the lands into hybrid lanes, enabling user fee payment through cash, and FASTag in 13 out of 48 tollgates in the State. In May, the hybrid lanes in 13 tollgates were made FASTag lanes. However, one lane on the extreme left in each toll was allowed for making cash. Chennai-based consumer activist T Sadagopan wondered why one’s private credentials are required for using toll roads. “The personal data captured in Aadhaar are sensitive in nature. Senior citizens are vulnerable as their data could be misused. People have the right to say ‘no’ to sharing their personal details. There is no transparency and NHAI is following unfair trade practices in selling FASTags.

The Ministry’s notification said transports will not be able to renew fitness certificates without installing FASTags. The notification also stated that, to acquire third-party insurance for a vehicle, FASTag will become a requirement from April 1, 2021. Despite repeated attempts, NHAI officials could not be reached for comments.

Railways to operate special train from Tambaram to Assam

Railways to operate special train from Tambaram to Assam

In return direction, the Tambaram - New Tinsukia Weekly Special will leave Tambaram at 6.55 pm on Thursdays and reach New Tinsukia at 7.55 am the fourth day. The services are to start on December 31.

Published: 17th December 2020 02:26 AM 

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Railways announced that a weekly special train will be introduced between New Tinsukia in Assam and Tambaram in Tamil Nadu. In a statement, the Railways said New Tinsukia - Tambaram Weekly Special will leave New Tinsukia at 6.30 am on Mondays and reach Tambaram at 9.25 pm the third day. First service is to commence on December 28.

In return direction, the Tambaram - New Tinsukia Weekly Special will leave Tambaram at 6.55 pm on Thursdays and reach New Tinsukia at 7.55 am the fourth day. The services are to start on December 31.

The trains will stop at Dibrugarh, Dhemaji, North Lakhimpurpur, Harmuti, Viswanath Charali, Rangapara North, New Misamari, Rangiya, New Bongaigaon, Kokrajhar, New Alipurduar, New Coochbehar, Dhupguri, New Jalpaiguri, Kishanganj, Barsoi, Malda Town, New Farakka, Pakur, Rampur Hat, Siuri, Andal Jn, Durgapur, Asansol, Joychandi Pahar, Purulia, Tatanagar, Hijilli, Balasore, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Khurda Road, Berhampur, Visakhapatnam, Rajamundry, Eluru, Viyayawada, Ongole, Nellore and Chennai Egmore. The trains will be operated until further advice, and advance reservation has been opened, the Railways added.

Chennai's RGGGH reduces the number of doctors posted on Covid-19 duty

Chennai's RGGGH reduces the number of doctors posted on Covid-19 duty

The RGGGH has handled the largest number of positive Covid-19 cases in the State, treating more than 30,000 patients since March, and has also processed more than 4.5 lakh swab samples so far. 

Published: 16th December 2020 05:13 PM 

Chennai corporation collecting swabs from migrant workers who are working at a construction site at OMR (File Photo | Ashwin Prasath, EPS)

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: The Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (RGGGH) has reduced the number of doctors posted on Covid-19 duty due to the decrease in positive cases. 

RGGGH dean Dr E Theranirajan said a total of 243 doctors were posted for a cycle consisting of seven days, and now this has been reduced to less than 90 doctors per cycle. 

"One or two doctors are posted from each department. The cases have largely decreased and since we have begun non-Covid operations, many doctors have returned to routine services," he told The New Indian Express. 

The RGGGH has handled the largest number of positive Covid-19 cases in the State, treating more than 30,000 patients since March, and has also processed more than 4.5 lakh swab samples so far. 

Dr Theranirajan said that as on Wednesday, the Covid inpatients in the hospital are the lowest ever. "There are only 79 Covid positive patients now which is the lowest ever, while 150 patients are kept in observation as suspect cases," he said. 

More than 80 percent of beds too are vacant in the hospital presently with just 229 beds occupied out of the 1668 beds available. 

The inpatient count too has reduced largely in the hospital. "From about 200 inpatients daily during the peak stages, now only about 30 inpatients are coming. Among them, only about 15 are positive cases," added Dr Theranirajan. 

From deaths being in double digits during the Covid peak period, presently, the deaths at the RGGGH are at zero every alternative day, said doctors. 

"Deaths from the RGGGH has remained in zero mostly but still, some private healthcare facilities are transferring patients in the last minute. So, one or two deaths happen on alternate days," said Dr Theranirajan. 

He spoke of a case where a private hospital had kept a patient for more than 40 days and shifted him to the GH at the last minute when his condition became critical. "His condition remains critical but we are giving him the best treatment," the dean said.