Should Orissa's Rich Textile Culture be Patented???

--By P. Neelakantha Achary

The tour to Orissa is incomplete without a glimpse of its rich textile culture. If the state of Orissa is in your destination list, then be prepared to know more about the textile culture of the state from very close. The state is famous for Puri, the abode of Lord Jagannath, Konark - The Sun Temple, and some unique historical monuments. Apart from that, the state is known for its textile heritage. The appliqué craft of Pipili is famous worldwide and portrays the textile culture of the state that includes Sambalpuri sarees, IKat, tusser silk, tribal handlooms, etc.

The decoration of drawing halls is incomplete without a piece of handloom from Orissa. The handloom and crafts from Orissa have already received accolade on the global arena. Every nook and corner of the state is filled with its rich textile culture and artistic expressions.

In ancient time too, the state was famous for its textile culture. Similarly, the handloom trade in the tribal belt of the state has also potential to become an additional source to share the economic prosperity of the state. The tribal belt of the state have their own identity and a great ethnic culture. But they could get more exposure if the handloom sector is given due attention.

The handloom products from the tribal belt could be another life for the state. The tribal handloom possess rich quality in work, but losses its ground in terms of recognition. The products from such belt could be promoted worldwide and patented. It is necessary so that the mark of originality is not disappeared and it gives recognition to original work.

The appliqué of Pipili provides great income source for families in and around that village. Similarly, the promotion of the tribal belt work could also help the state to generate revenue and ultimately the tribes associated could be self-reliant. And this could be a great step towards changing the image of the state from a poor state to a great rich textile heritage state.

The modern life style have forced people adopt fashion as part of their life. The brand mantra of the advertising gurus is the key to attract the customers and making their brand market-oriented. Despite this, the brand of Orissa is making its way successfully; now it's time for the tribal belt to prove its excellence in the handloom sector. The great work in handloom in these tribal belts often go unnoticed. Attention towards this, would help the state in maintaining its identity with the resources of rich textile culture and eventually become a powerful economically prosperous state on the national scene.

Orissa Policemen speak out, demand adequate staff to fight Naxal Menace

The recent Maoist attack in Nayagarh and Daspalla, opened a new debate among the policemen in the state. Nayagarh was never a naxal-prone area and no such incidents were reported in the past. However, Friday's daring attack by the Maoists changed all perceptions in the state. There is a belief that Maoists could even dare to attack the state capital if they wish so.

The Orissa Police associations have demanded adequate fortification of police stations and armouries in the state. They have also asked the state government to declare the entire state as Naxal-prone. This is for the first time policemen in the state have made this demand.

Battlefield Gasma Forest: 20 Maoists and 3 Policemen killed

Breaking News! Heavy exchange of fire continues in Gasma forest in Ganjam district, which falls between Nayagarh and Bhanjangar. Gasma forest is located at a distance of 40 km from Bhanjanagar. According to sources, at least 20 Maoists and three SOG (Special Operation Group) were killed in the gunbattle. The Orissa Home Secretary has confirmed the reports.

Massive combing operation was launched on Saturday by CRPF, Special cell of Orissa Police and IAF. Special Greyhound Force from Andhra Pradesh also joined the operation, giving it a further boost. More Greyhound Forces are expected to join the special operation tomorrow. Radar helicopters from IAF are being used to hund down the Maoists who fled to Gasma forest after killing police personnel and looting arms in Nayagarh and Daspalla.

Mahendra Kumawat, the special secretary of Central Home Department has arrived in Orissa to monitor the situation. The operation launched by CRPF, SOG, IAF, OSAP and Greyhound Force is said to be the biggest ever anti-Maoist operation in the country.

Breaking News! Security Personnel encircles Maoists near Nayagarh

Breaking News! More than 600 police and CRPF personnel have launched a massive combing operation against the Maoists who attacked the police stations in Nayagarh and Daspalla on Friday night, killing 15 people including 14 policemen. They also looted arms and ammunition worth crores of rupees. The incident sent shockwave across the state and the entire nation.

In a joint operation, more than 600 CRPF personnel and hundreds of police personnel have encircled the Maoists near a mountain between Nayagarh and Bhanjanagar. They are accompanied by two IAF helicopters. The security personnel have closed all entry and exit routes. So, there is no escaping route for the Maoists. Although they have loads of arms and ammunitions, the security personnel seem to outnumber them in power and arms.

After the Nayagarh incident, the security personnel, with the backing of the state government, are baying for the blood of the Maoists. They are not in a mood to let this opportunity go out of their hand. Additional security forces are being sent, after it was confirmed that Maoists are almost trapped. Further details are awaited.

Highlights of Orissa Budget (2008-09)

Orissa Finance Minister Prafulla Ghadai, presented a tax-free budget in the state assembly on Saturday. He had a tough time to read out the preapred text, as opposition members stormed into the well of the house, demanding CM Naveen Patnaik's resignation over Maoist attack in Nayagarh. The budget for 2008-09, pegged the total outlay at Rs. 28,747.08 crore.

The State government will spend Rs 20,349.97 crore under non-plan, Rs. 6653.79 crore under State plan, Rs 538.95 crore under Central plan and Rs 1204.37 crore under Centrally sponsored schemes. This year's total budgetary provision has been enhanced by Rs. 4613.39 crore compared to the previous budget.

The State’s revenue receipt was estimated to be Rs. 23,270.42 crore against revenue expenditure of Rs. 22,706.55 crore while revenue surplus had been shown as Rs. 563.87. The state government has put emphasis on irrigation. The budget allocation for this sector has been increased by Rs. 736.24 crore from Rs. 1,140.75 crore in 2007-08 to Rs 1,876.99 crore for 2008-09.

The state government has decided to focus on key sectors such as home, school, mass education, health & family welfare and rural development. The government has allocated Rs. 100.50 for Biju Gramya Jyoti Yojana (double of the total allocation in 2007-08). Another housing scheme called 'Mo Kudia' (My hutment) will have a budgetary allocation of Rs. 100 crore. Gopabandhu Grameen Yojana and Biju KBK Yojana will also get similar allocations.

The government has announced sops for students. Rs. 10 crore will be provided for awarding scholarships to 10,000 students at the rate of Rs. 10,000 per annum for pursuing professional studies in engineering, medicine, MBA and MCA. The government will form one lakh women self-help group. Each group will receive Rs. 5,000. Monthly pension for artists has been increased from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000.

Uproar in Orissa Assembly over Maoist Attack

The Orissa Assembly on Saturday witnessed uproarious scenes over the daring Maoist attack in Nayagarh and Dashpalla. Speaker Maheswar Mohanty had to adjourn the assembly at least twice amid pandemonium. The opposition parties blamed the ruling BJD-BJP government for the daring Naxal attack and demanded immediate resignation of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Incidentally, Mr. Patnaik is in charge home department.

CM Naveen Patnaik visits Nayagarh, announces Compensation for the Victims

Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik visited Nayagarh today amid tight security arrangements. He paid a visit to the armoury and the Police Training School at Nayagarh. The CM condemned the Maoist attack in strong words and vowed to deal with the Naxals with an iron hand.

Mr. Naveen Patnaik has also announced a compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each for the families of all 14 policemen killed in the attack. In addition, he announced Rs. 2 lakh for the family of the civilian who was killed in yesterday night's attack in Nayagarh. The deceased police personnel will also get an insurance cover of Rs 10 lakh. The CM announced that government would bear the medical expenses of all injured.

Naxal Attack in Nayagarh: IAF Helicopters called in

Breaking News! The Orissa government has decided to use IAF Helicopters to track down the naxalites who killed 14 people including 13 policemen in Nayagarh and Dashpalla last night. These two helicopters are being brought from Andhra Pradesh. Around 600 police personnel have been deployed in Nayagarh. They have intensified the combing operations.

Six companies of additional CRPF personnel have been rushed to Nayagarh immediately. CM Naveen Patnaik has condemned the attack and said that security personnel were outnumbered by the armed naxals.

14 people including 13 Policemen confirmed dead in Naxal Attack

Yesterday night's daring naxal attack had claimed 14 lives including those of 13 policemen. Over 200 maoists including women attacked the police stations in Nayagarh, Dashpalla and Nuagaon. They also took possession of a police outpost in Galeri on the Bhanjanagar - Chakapad road. The naxals killed ASI Dandapani Mishra and other police personnel in Nayagah police station before setting the building on fire. They also torched the Police Training School.

Another group of Naxals bombed the Dashpalla police station. They also hijacked a passenger bus. One civilian was killed in crossfire. The Maoists looted a huge number of arms and ammunition from the armoury.

Orissa News Online was the first to report the news on Internet. We had published the breaking news at 11.45 PM yesterday. The fate of the hijacked bus is not immediately known. High alert has been issued in entire Nayagarh district, Khurda, Phulbani and Bhubaneswar. Other parts of the state have also been put on alert. Senior police officials including the Police DG have rushed to Naygarh to assess the situation. The police have intensified the combing operations. All routes passing through Nayagarh, have been sealed.

Uproar in Orissa Assembly over Fuel Price Hike

The Orissa Assembly witnessed uproarious scenes over petrol and diesel price hike. While the ruling BJD demanded a censure motion against the UPA government at the Centre, BJP, CPI and CPI(M) too protested against the price hike and demanded it to be discussed in the house. The opposition parties that looked united against the ruling BJD-BJP government on Thursday, were disintegrated on the fuel price hike issue.

The assemby was adjourned for 30 minutes on Friday. BJD-BJP combine and the Congress attacked each other and stormed the well of the house. CPI (M) members staged a demonstration near PMG Square against the increase in oil price.

Breaking News! Naxals attack police stations in Nayagarh and Dashpalla

--By Orissa News Online Correspondent

Breaking News! It's 23.45 on February 15, 2008. We just received the breaking news that naxalites (who came in large numbers) have attacked the police stations in Nayagarh and Dashpalla. According to unconfirmed reports, some casualities are feared in Dashpalla. A large number of arms and ammunition have been looted from the police stations.

The naxalites have set the Police Training School in Nayagarh on fire. They also hijacked a bus passing through the area. The exchange of fire is on between the police and naxalites. One civilian was killed in the crossfire. Further details are awaited.

Orissa Govt. rejects demand for CBI Probe into Health Scam

The entire opposition staged a walkout in the Orissa Assemby, as the government rejected their demand for a CBI probe into the multi-crore scam in the World Bank-funded Orissa Health System Development Project. The house was adjourned thrice amid pandemonium. The government maintained that since vigilance probe is going on, a CBI probe at this juncture is not necessary.

Health Minister Sanatan Bisi rejected the opposition demand for a CBI probe and assured the house that state vigilance department is conducting the probe in an impartial manner. Since the opposition is not in a mood to relent, the Assembly may witness the same drama on Friday too.

Orissa Government rejects National Tiger Census

Orissa CM Naveen Patnaik has rejected the national tiger census figures released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). According to the relased figures, Orissa has less than 60 tigers with Similipal National Park housing less than 30. However, the CM refuted the claim, saying Simplipal alone has more than 100 tigers. Interesting, Naveen Patnaik himself heads the Ministry of Environment and Forest.

The Chief Minister has decided to lodge a strong objection with the Ministry of Environment as well as the Wildlife Institute of India for this inaccurate census figures. He also asked other states to reject the census figures. The NTCA tiger census figures say that there are only an estimated 1,411 tigers left in the wild in India, less than half the number found in the 2002 census.

Tension in Dhinkia over Posco Project

People in Dhinkia formed human chains to prevent the surveyors from conducting the survey on the Posco project site. They were lensed with arms and lathis. The authorities did not enter the village and carried out their survey in adjacent Gobindpur village. Dhinkia village is considered as the epicentre of anti-Posco movement. Hundreds of people including women and children gathered around the temoprary fences to prevent the entry of survey team into their area.

However, the Special Special Land Acquisition Officer Nrusingh Swain said that district administration has already excluded Dhinkia village from survey and land demarcation.

Orissa Govt. announces sops for Teachers

Just a day before the budget session, the Orissa Government had announcued sops for teachers across the state, which brought smile to their face. They finally got what they have been demanding for long. The state cabinet decided to regularize nearly 52,000 Siksha Sahayaks in the state and retain the EGS voluntary teachers as '"Gana Sikhyak" with enhanced pay scale.

All Siksha Sahayaks who have completed six years of service, would be made primary school teachers with effect from April 1, 2008. They would be working under the Zilla Parishad. Siksha Sahayaks, who have completed at least three years of service, would be paid consolidated amount of Rs 3,500 per month. Others would get between Rs 2,000 and Rs 3,000 per month. The pay structure will come into effect from December 2007.

The EGS volunteer teachers would be called as "Gana Sikhyak". The EGS schools will be upgraded to regular schools under the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan. They would receive a monthly salary of Rs 2,000. The untrained teachers would receive Rs 1,700. The Cabinet also approved the enhanced the block grants to 1,314 High Schools and 834 Upper Primary (UP) ME Schools .

The Budget Session starts with Opposition Boycott

The budget session of the Orissa legislative assembly began with a boycott by opposition parties led by the Congress. They staged a walkout immediately after Governor M. C. Bhandare started reading his speech. The governor highlighted the government's achievements.

The opposition returned to the house once the governor's speech was over. The budget session is likely to be stormy, as the opposition is planning to target the government on issues like "Health Scam", "Farmers' Suicide" and "Law and Order in the state".

Orissa Govt: Ban on Poultry import to continue

Even though the West Bengal government has lifted the ban on the trade, transport and consumption of poultry, the Orissa government has decided not to lift the ban on import of poultry birds from West Bengal and Jharkhand. It was confirmed by Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Secretary H K Panda.

It could be recalled that despite the directives from the Centre, the Orissa government had failed to go for the culling of poultry birds in the areas bordering Bird Flu-hit West Bengal. The matter is in High Court now. The Centre in its recent recommendations, asked the Orissa government to end restriction on import of poultry birds from West Bengal, but the government is not ready to accept it.

Orissa Government gets provisional nod to Arcelor for land acquisitions

Steel giant Arcelor Mittal has received provisional approval from the Orissa government to acquire 7,750 acres of land for setting up a 12-million ton steel plant and township in the state. It was confirmed by Arcelor Mittal India CEO Sanak Mishra. To fuel the power plant, the company has already got a coal mine on lease.

Four People arrested in Kidnapping Case

The Orissa police have arrested four persons in connection with the sensational kidnapping of businessman Rashmiranjan Mohapatra from Keonjhar. The kidnappers allegedly acted on the orders of gangster Shiekh Hyder, who is currently lodged in Bolangir jail. Rashmi was kidnapped from Bhubaneswar in May 2007. His family members are said to have several installments of ransom money to the kidnappers for his release, but in vain.

When his family members failed to seek his release, they approached the police. The Bolangir and Kendrapara police conducted a joint operation to nab the culprits. The arrested kidnappers included a lawyer Ganapati Ray, Sheikh Churia (Hyder's son) and his associates Jajati Biswal and Gayatri Biswal. While Ganapati was arrested from Bolangir, the others were arrested from Kendrapara.

Rashmiranjan is still untraceable. The police are interrogating the accused to find a clue on the whereabouts of the abducted businessman.

2500 year old City unearthed in Sisupalgarh, Orissa

Archaeologists have unearthed a 2,500 year old city at Sisupalgarh in Orissa. According to ASI (Archeological Survey of India) sources, the city is older and bigger than Athens in Greece. They also believe that it had a population of more than 25,000. Although Sisupalgarh was discovered in 1948, the actual excavation began only three years ago.

A team of archeologists from Deccan College in Pune, University of California and Archeological Survey of India (ASI) are conducting the excavations. Some of the interesting findings of the team included a large monument for public gathering, a large variety of pottery, pillars, walls and utensils.

Orissa Government to bring Bill on OBC Quota

The Orissa government has decided to bring a special legislation in the coming Budget Session, which will ensure 27 per cent reservation in government jobs for OBCs. According to the government sources, reservation of 11.25 per cent for OBCs will be implemented as an interim measure and 15.75 per cent of jobs will be kept vacant.

The vacant posts will be filled up after completion of the legal process. Currently, the OBCs enjoy 11.25 per cent reservation, while the STs and SCs enjoy 38.75 per cent reservation.

Police Commissioner releases Traffic Blueprint

Under the new Police Commissionerate system, Police Commissioner Binay Kumar Behera released the new traffic blueprint for the capital. The new system is aimed at improving the traffic movement in Bhubaneswar.

From Vani Vihar to Sishu Bhavan, 49 parking zones will be identified. There will be 16 parking zones between Acharya Vihar Square and AG Square on the Sachivalaya Marg. Similarly, there will be 8 parking zones between Jayadev Vihar and Damana Square. No parking fee will be collected from the common people.

Street Vendors on rampage in Bhubaneswar, beat up BMC Officials

Breaking News! Street vendors in Bhubaneswar went on a rampage near Raj Mahal square in Bhubaneswar. They beat up several BMC officials and damaged public properties. The police team immediately rushed in to rescue the officials. At least 2 Municipal officials including a senir officer have been injured in the attack.

The incident occurred when a group of MBC officials had gone to demolish the temporary shops established by the street vendors. The police have arrested 5 street vendors so far. Further details are awaited.

East Zone wins Duleep Trophy battle against South Zone

East Zone bowlers Ranadeb Bose and Tushar Saha delivered their best to help their team register a 68 run victory of South Zone in a Duleep Trophy match at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Chasing a victory target of 273, South Zone bowled out for 204 in the second innings. Bose took three crucial wickets.

Orissa's wicket keeper-batsman Haladhar Das was the find of the match, as he scored 93 and 54 not out in both innings. East Zone got 5 points after this win. Here's the final score:

East Zone: 313 and 163
South Zone: 204 and 204

Over 2000 Rural Doctors threaten to resign

More than 2000 doctors working in the rural areas of the state, have threatened to resign if their demands are not met by February 18, 2008. They are demanding higher salary, better working conditions and sophisticated infrastructure. The ultimatum was issued to the government by Orissa Medical Services Association (OMSA) on Wednesday.

OMSA has already started collecting resignation letters from the rural doctors and more than 2000 letters have been collected so far. The resignation letters have given one month notice to the government. That means, the doctors will not be reporting on duties from March 19, 2008.

Orissa govt delays Culling Operation

The strong resistance from poultry farmers across the Orissa-West Bengal border, forced the Orissa government to delay the culling operations. The culling operation was supposed to begin on Wednesday.

The poultry farmers have filed a writ petition in the High Court challenging the Orissa government decision to cull "healthy birds" in 737 villages within the 5 km radius of Bird Flu-hit West Bengal. The directive was issued by the Centre. According to sources, the government is waiting for HC's order before taking any further action.

Breaking News! HIV+ Persons to get Pension in Orissa

Breaking News! The Orissa government has decided to offer a pension worth Rs. 200 per month to the HIV+ persons in the state for life. The pension scheme will be covered under 'Madhu Babu Pension Yojana'. The scheme will take effect from this month.

The government move has brought smile to the faces of HIV patients who have been dumped by the society and are living under neglect and apathy. Orissa became the first state in the country to provide such benefits to the HIV patients. Currently, there are 6,132 HIV+ persons in the state.

Amazing Sand Art by Sudarshan Patnaik [Cool Pics]

The beautiful sand art and sculpture created by Sudarshan Patnaik on the beach, have been widely appreciated by people across the globe. Thousands of people throng to Puri every month to get a glimpse of the beauty and grandeur created by Sudarshan.

We have recently published an article titled "Beautiful Sand Art by Sudarshan Patnaik [Cool Pics]" at Destination India. The article has listed pictures 13 amazing sand art sculptures created by Sudarshan Patnaik. View this here.

Interestingly, the article has received worldwide accolade on the social bookmarking sites such as Propeller, Reddit, Mixx, Care2, StumbleUpon etc. etc.

Naveen Patnaik expands Ministry, 3 new ministers inducted

Orissa CM Naveen Patnaik finally expanded his ministry with the induction of three new ministers. Former minister Mr. Pradipta Naik (BJP), former Rajya Sabha MP Mr. Sanatan Bisi (BJD) and Boudh MLA Mr. Pradeep Amat have been administered the oath of office and secrecy by governor M C Bhandare at Raj Bhavan.

Ministers with independent charge, Mr. Duryodhana Majhi and Mr. Debi Prasad Mishra were elevated to cabinet ranks. Debi Prasad Mishra will continue to be in charge of Excise and Tourism. Duryodhan Majhi has been given the portfolio of Planning and Co-ordination & Science and Technology.

Pradipta Nayak got back his old department of Labour and Employment. Sanatan Bisi has been given the department of Health, while Pradeep Amat will be in charge of Steel and Mines. Sanjeeb Kumar Sahoo will hold the portfolio of School and Mass Education.

In Picture: Sanatan Bisi

Nine Lakh Poultry Birds to be culled in Orissa

Despite the objections from Fisheries and Animal Resources Department (FARD) against culling of poultry birds , the Orissa government has decided to go for the culling within 5 km radius of Orissa-West Bengal border. The culling will begin on Wednesday. According to the estimates, around 9 lakh birds are expected to be culled.

Although no bird flu has been detected in the state so far, the government is playing safe following the directives from the Centre. The government has already formed two teams to carry out the culling operations. The affected poultry farmers will be duly compensated by the state government within 7 days.

Ministry Expansion to be held today

The much-awaited ministry expansion of the Naveen Patnaik government will take place today. The BJD-BJP had to defer the ministry expansion at least thrice in the past. Hectic parleys could be seen in Orissa's political circle in the past couple of days. They are many aspirants for the lucrative ministerial posts, but it is CM Naveen Patnaik who will have the final say without bowing to any pressure tactics.

Pradipta Nayak of the BJP, who had resigned in the 'false affidavit' case, is all set to return as a minister. Names of Jayaram Pangi and Sanatan Bishi are doing round for the ministerial posts from BJD quota. According to some confidential sources, names of Damodar Rout, Balabhadra Majhi, Rabi Narayana Nanda and Ramesh Majhi are also being discussed. All the aspirants have kept their fingers crossed.

Jewellery Shop looted in Sambalpur

Seven armed robbers looted diamond and gold jewellery worth Rs 3 crore from a jewellery shop in Sambalpur. In a planned robbery, they first damaged the close circuit cameras and locked up the staff and customers inside. According to thr eye-witnesses, the dacoits came in a black van. They poured milk on the close circuit cameras before carrying out their operation.

The robbers were speaking in Hindi. They snatched mobile phones from the staff and customers and disconnected the landline phone connections. Ironically, the operation continued for 45 minutes, but nobody outside the shop got a clue about what was happening inside. The police have launched a massive manhunt to nab the robbers.

Rakesh Nayak - The Martyr from Orissa

Rakesh Nayak (26) of Puri was one of the five martyrs, who were killed of a poisonous gas leak on INS Jalashwa. Rakesh, trained at INS Chilika, was a mechanic with INS Jalashwa. He was killed while trying to help his colleagues hit by a poisonous gas leak in the warship.

Hundreds of people flocked to his home to pay their last homage to the martyr. He was cremated at the Swarg Dwar cremation ground in Puri after a guard of honour by INS Chilika.

Contaminated Water kills 2 children, 48 people hospitalized

At least two children were killed and 48 peopl hospitalized at Sindhekela village near Titilagarh, Balangir after consuming contaminated water. According to sources, the water was supplied by the village panchayat from a nearby river well.

The outraged public manhandled the SDMO for failing to accomodate a doctor in village hospital. They mistook the SDMO as CDMO. The district administration is taking immediate steps to ensure clean water supply to the people and better medical facilities to the affected people.

NALCO gets 'Navaratna' Status

The Union Cabinet has approved the 'Navaratna' status for leading PSU NALCO (National Aluminium Company Ltd). NALCO has its production units in Anugul and Damanjodi in Orissa. NALCO always led the way in producing high quality aluminium products ever since its inception in 1985. It is one of the laregest profit making PSUs for the government of India.

Rani Jamuda alias Nanika revealed the nexus between Maoists and Mine Owners

According to latest media reports, Maoist leader Anna Reddy's girl friend, Rani Jamuda alias Nanika has revealed the nexus between Maoist leaders and mine owners in and around Sukinda. Some tribal leaders, who supported the anti-Tata stir in Kalinga Nagar area are alleged to have links with Maoists and received huge benefits in return.

The arrested Maoists also revealed that they used to get millions of rupees from the mines and other industries in Sukinda to run the anti-Tata movement in Kalinga Nagar. More skeletons are expected to tumble, as the police continues it interrogation of the Maoist leaders including Anna Reddy and Rani Jamuda.

Senior Lecturer suspended for terming Saffron parties as terror organizations in Book

A senior lecturer with Sailabala Women's College, Cuttack has been suspended for terming the saffron parties BJP, Shiv Sena, RSS and Bajarang Dal as terrorist organizations. The lecturer in question is Shyama Charan Mohanty. He and Amarendra Mohanty, Retd. Reader of Ravenshaw College, Cuttack had written the controversial book, "Indian Polity Process" in which BJP, Shiv Sena and other Sangh Parivar organizations were compared to Pakistan's dreaded terrorist organization, Lashkar-e-Toiba. The book was being taught in the +3 Final Year Arts stream.

Although Shyama Charan Mohanty had issued a written afidavit with an apology, the government is in no mood for spreading the venom. He and the other Reader would be prosecuted under Rule 15 OCS Act. Action is expected to be taken against Kitab Mahal, which published the book.

Anna Reddy's arrest: A huge success for Orissa Police

The Jajpur police have confirmed that one of the arrested Maoists from a private hospital in Bhubaneswar, was dreaded Maoist leader Anna Reddy alias Bir Narasingha Lu. Anna Reddy was arrested by the police when he visited his "girlfriend" Nanika alias Rani Jamuda (20) who was being treated at Kalinga Hospital for Brain Malaria. Nanika is a native of Ambagadia village in Kalinga Nagar area of Jajpur district.

Besides Anna Reddy, two other Maoists Manjresh Hansda and Ram Chandra Das were also arrested by a special police team from Jajpur. They both belong to Jajpur district. Anna Reddy's arrest is considered a major success for