Makers of Blackberry introduce Tablet

Ottawa: Research In Motion, the Canadian maker of the BlackBerry smartphone, introduced its first tablet computer on Monday at a developers' conference in San Francisco. But in a return to its roots, the company said that the new device, the BlackBerry PlayBook, would be aimed mainly at business users.

After popularizing wireless e-mail, R.I.M. has ceded much of its leadership in the smartphone market to Apple and phones based on Google's Android operating system.

The introduction of a tablet computer will not end criticism from some analysts that R.I.M. is now playing catch-up with Apple. But in a bid to distinguish the PlayBook from Apple's iPad, Michael Lazaridis, R.I.M.'s co-chief executive, said that the new tablet contained several features requested by corporate information technology departments.
In an address to conference attendees, Mr. Lazaridis called the PlayBook "the world's first professional tablet" and repeatedly emphasized that it was fully compatible with the special servers that corporations and governments now used to control and monitor employees' BlackBerry devices.

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While the company offered some specifics about the new device, it left many questions unanswered, most notably the tablet's price. The company was also vague about its release date, indicating only that it would be available early next year.

Among the PlayBook's novel features are outlets that allow it to display material on computer monitors or television sets, but Mr. Lazaridis made no effort to use them during his presentation. As animations showing the device's features appeared above him on a giant screen, he did little more with the PlayBook in his hand than switch it on.

"It's a very real product," said Charles S. Golvin, principal analyst with Forrester Research. "But obviously it's very much a work in progress."

Perhaps responding to criticisms that the operating system for R.I.M.'s phone is outdated, the PlayBook will use a new operating system developed by QNX Software Systems, a company R.I.M. acquired from Harman International earlier this year.

The new device can also display Web pages created using Adobe's Flash software, a capability not found on the iPad. To underscore that point, Shantanu Narayen, the president and chief executive of Adobe, appeared on stage with Mr. Lazaridis.

While R.I.M.'s phones and tablet will have incompatible operating systems, Mr. Golvin expects that outside software application developers will work around that issue by using Flash, as well as standard Web page protocols.

R.I.M. has lagged well behind Apple in terms of the number of applications available for its hand-held devices. But immediately after the PlayBook announcement, Amazon said that it would introduce a Kindle e-book application for the PlayBook.

Unlike the most expensive iPads, the PlayBook cannot connect directly to cellular networks. Users will be able, however, to connect to the Internet through a wireless Bluetooth connection to their BlackBerrys or by using Wi-Fi networks.

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Aishwarya comfortable working in Tamil cinema

Iruvar, Jeans, Raavan, and now Robot. After her fourth film, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan admits that she’s finally comfortable working in Tamil cinema. “Earlier when I was doing Iruvar (1997) with Mani (Ratnam) and Jeans (1998) with Shankar, delivering my dialogue in Tamil was like sitting for an examination,” she reminisces. 

“I used to write my lines in English and mug them diligently the day before the shoot. Although I now understand the language better, I still wouldn’t risk a conversation with a local because my grammar is rusty.” The actress plays Sana, a medicine student, in the film and insists she was like a student on the sets too.

“Irrespective of whether I’m doing a film in Hindi, Tamil, Bengali or English, for me the director is like a teacher. I would watch Shankar as he reviewed a shot on the monitor and wait for him to break into an ecstatic smile to know that the moment had worked for him cinematically,” she says.

She adds that for all the technical wizardry in Jeans or Robot, Shankar is not trying to make a Hollywood film. “He’s only trying to weave a fantasy that would appeal to the aam janta here.”

From larger-than-life superstar Rajnikanth, Rai Bachchan claims to have learnt lessons in humility. “Rajni sir is so unassuming,” she marvels. “He never cribbed about the long hours he had to spend on the sets owing to the technical detailing.

I completed three other films — Raavan, Guzaarish and Action Replayy — in these two years but he was completely focussed on Robot.”

Did she learn to flip sunglasses and cigarettes, Rajni style? “Nope, but I got to see him do it ‘live’. And it was a jaw-dropping experience,” she says. However, she did brush up on her technical know-how: “During Jeans, Shankar exposed me to multiple imaging. Robot took me a step further.” Who did she enjoy romancing more, the Robot or a regular Rajni? “I was spoilt for choice,” she laughs. “Both the man and the machine were irresistible.”

Her last Tamil film, Raavan, didn’t live up to expectations even though it fared better than its Hindi version. Will Robot conquer the box-office? The actress has her fingers crossed and is quick to add that she enjoyed Raavan too: “But when the audience doesn’t like something, we strive to do better next time.”

Oscar: Angadi Theru loses to Peepli Live

Vasanthabalan’s reality film ‘Angadi Theru’ lost to Peepli Live in the race to be India’s official entry to this year's Oscar Awards in the Best Foreign Language Film category.

The decision to send the Bollywood film ‘Peepli Live’ was announced by the selection committee chairman KS Sethumadhavan in Chennai on Friday.

There were five Tamil films out of the initially shortlisted 27 Indian films. Singam, Angadi Theru, Madrasapattinam, Raavanan and Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya. Notable other language films were Paa, Raajneeti, My Name is Khan, Three Idiots and Pazhassi Raja.

In the end Aamir Khan produced ‘Peepli Live’ was chosen saying “the film is a reflection of India's culture and ethos, even as it highlights the burning problem - farmer suicides.”

Sources said ‘Angadi Theru’ gave stiff competition to Peepli Live during the selection process. How ever the social satire managed to win over Angadi Theru.

Peepli Live is a satire about the farmer suicides in India and how the media and politicians handle the issue to their evil gains. The film sends across a strong social message with subtle humour. It is directed by journalist Anusha Rizvi and produced by Aamir Khan.

PMO denies ministers were pulled up on Games work

The Prime Minister's office (PMO) on Saturday denied reports that Manmohan Singh had pulled up the Group of Ministers (GOM) in charge of the Commonwealth Games (CWG) for the delays and the shoddy work regarding the Games. A statement issued by the PMO said, "Such reports are misleading". 

The statement said: "The prime minister has seen reports in a section of the media that he 'pulled up' the Group of Ministers in charge of the Commonwealth Games. Such reports are misleading."

It added that the prime minister "appreciates the difficult job the GOM has on its hands". "He has been encouraging the ministers and officers concerned to work together extra time to make the Games a success."

Several media networks Friday reported that two senior ministers -- Sports Minister M.S. Gill and Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy -- were 'pulled up' by Manmohan Singh Thursday during a meeting he had called.

The reports said that Manmohan Singh denied permission to Gill to make a presentation on the Games. Instead, he suggested to Gill that "hands-on solutions" were needed now, the reports said.

The Commonwealth Games, the biggest sports event to be hosted by India after the 1982 Asian Games, has been dogged by delays and controversies. Several countries delayed the departure of their athletes to the Oct 3-14 Games in Delhi after reports of "filthy and unliveable conditions in the Games village".

Around 7,000 athletes and officials from 71 countries and territories are scheduled to attend the 12-day mega sports event.

China's Call for an Apology Is Met With Anger in Japan

Chinese authorities also continued to hold four Japanese nationals, whose detention two days ago was widely seen as a move by China to pressure Tokyo to release the captain, Zhan Qixiong. On Saturday, Japanese diplomats were allowed their first visit with the four, who are held in northern Hebei Province. 

The two-week standoff over the captain’s detention near islands claimed by both nations had seemed to end Friday when Japan gave in to Chinese pressure for his release. But no sooner had the plane carrying the captain landed in China than Beijing again ratcheted up the pressure, this time by demanding an apology and compensation. 

On Saturday, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Jiang Yu, said, “China of course has the right to demand the Japanese side make an apology and compensation.” An earlier statement said the arrest violated the captain’s human rights. 

In Japan, the new demands were met with anger and disbelief. Its Foreign Ministry quickly issued a statement whose curt terms departed from its usually cautious and opaque language.

“There is no territorial issue that needs to be resolved,” said the statement by a ministry spokesman, Satoru Sato. “The demand by the Chinese side for apology and compensation is completely groundless and is utterly unacceptable.” 

The fact that the rejection was not directly from a higher-ranking cabinet official suggests that Tokyo may hope to prevent the apology demand from growing into another diplomatic showdown. But its bluntness also suggested that Japanese officials may want to deflect domestic criticism that they appeared to have caved into Chinese pressure by releasing Mr. Zhan.

The name is Khan

The Commonwealth Games are not doing much to make us Delhiites proud. However, Khan Market definitely is. According to the annual global survey by real estate consultants Cushman & Wakefield, this central Delhi market has been declared the world’s 21st most expensive retail high street. HT City

takes a look at what makes Khan Market so cool. 

1 This is one place in Delhi where stray dogs and cats feel loved. They are well looked after, vaccinated,
well fed and are also wrapped with coats during winters.  

2 The Khan Market crowd is the upper crust of Delhi society. It comprises of diplomats, book lovers, foodies, politicians and the rest of the fashionable.

3 The market’s middle lane is rutty but who cares... it is lined with cool restaurants — from cafes to fine diners — offering cuisines from all over the world.

4 Khan Market is pricey and is a natural ‘home’ for the rich but the good thing is that it has free parking for your car and there are attendants to guide you.

5 Khan Market is known for its bookshops. Their number has dwindled to four (KD Singh’s The Book Shop is terribly missed) but the remaining shops are still some of Delhi’s best bookstores. Even if you don’t like books, just step in for people watching.

6 Yay, the Metro is coming to Khan. The soon-to-be-opened Humayun Road metro stop will, for all purposes, be known as the metro station for Khan Market. Commuting to the place will become easier.

7 Khan Market is the favoured destination of Delhi’s famous people, all coming from different walks of life. Sample the regulars: MP Rahul Gandhi, singer Shubha Mudgal, J&K chief minister Omar Abdullah, dancer Shovana Narayan and author William Dalrymple. Heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor, too, has been spotted here.

8 The landmark eateries of Khan Chacha’s and Salim’s Kabab enables fashionable Delhiites to get Delhi’s best kathi rolls and kebabs without venturing into Old Delhi, the traditional haunt for kebabs.

9 Khan Market is more than just the sum total of its showrooms. Delhi’s only Parsi cemetery lies just behind it. Its backyard also boasts of Delhi’s only synagogue.

10 Khan Market has some of the few good, clean places in Delhi, other than 5-star hotel coffee shops, that offer early breakfasts. Choko La, for instance, offers lovely choices as early as 8am.  

11 The public toilets in the Middle Lane maintain hygiene standards that rivals that of the nearby 5-star hotel. 

12 You can find the world in Khan Market. And we don’t just mean the expat crowd. When it comes to shopping for foreign cheeses, chocolates, hummus, juices, fruits and even flowers, moneyed Delhiites drive to Khan Market. 

13 Khan Market is the place to pamper your pets. The Market has two shops selling all that you need for your Poopoo.

14 Khan Market gives you freedom from the ‘shady’ crowd. The rich dad’s poor girl can walk around without worrying about the stares of ‘perverts’. For there aren’t any such men in Khan Market, or so it seems.

15 Come to Khan Market to check out what’s the latest in high-street style. Divas who come to shop here are dressed in their sartorial best.

16 Khan Market has a dizzying wide range of footwear. You can buy a sandal worth R10,000 or a chappal from street side stall here for less than Rs 300.

17 “My name is Khan and I’m not a mall.” In a city where the shopping public is being swept by the first-world glamour of malls, Khan Market still remains fashionab

BlackBerry deal possible with India: Said Canada

Toronto: Canadian Trade Minister Peter Van Loan, who Friday discussed the issue of India's threat to ban BlackBerry with Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma, said the smart phone maker Research in Motion (RIM) should be able to reach an agreement with New Delhi.
The two ministers met as part of the 'First Annual Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment' to deepen their 'strategic partnership' and triple bilateral trade to $15 billion in the next five years.

India has extended the Aug 31 deadline by two months to allow BlackBerry - which has one million subscribers in the country - to allow access to its encrypted email message for security reasons.
Sharma reportedly reiterated India's decision to ban BlackBerry if RIM does not allow its access to secure emails by the next deadline. RIM has given some options to the Indian government to stay in the world's second fastest growing economy.

Van Loan said India's demand for access to BlackBerry encrypted data for security investigations is the same that Canadian security agencies already possess.
"As you know in Canada, when the police or security agencies present evidence to a judge and obtain a warrant, they are able to intercept telephone calls and other forms of communication," the Canadian trade minister told the media in the presence of Anand Sharma.


Since India is also seeking the same power to access emails for security reasons, Van Loan said, "We believe that RIM can arrive at a resolution on that basis - that protects freedom, protects those fundamental values of privacy but at the same time allows legitimate security interests to be represented."
During their meeting, the two ministers released the Canada-India Joint Study Group Report on the feasibility of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA), a government statement in Ottawa said.
"The ministers agreed that there is significant potential for sustained growth in trade and investment flows between the two countries, and reiterated their prime ministers' commitment to increasing trade to $15 billion annually in the next five years," the statement added.

After entering into similar agreements with Japan, South Korea, Japan and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Sharma said India would soon finalise the accord with Canada.
They also discussed the proposed social security agreement, foreign investment promotion and protection agreement and audio-visual co-production agreement between the two countries to raise their business ties.
The two sides agreed to set up a Canada-India CEO Forum to offer policy suggestions. They also decided to set up working groups on the private sector-public sector partnership (PPP) in areas of infrastructure, energy and mining, agro-processing, information and communication technologies, and education.

CJI Kapadia to head three-judge Bench on Ayodhya dispute

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India S.H. Kapadia will head a three-judge Bench to hear the Ayodhya dispute case in the Supreme Court on Tuesday. On September 23 the Supreme Court by an interim order, had stayed the pronouncement of verdict by the Allahabad High Court scheduled for September 24 on four title suits relating to the Ayodhya dispute.

A Bench of Justices R.V. Raveendran and H.L. Gokhale, which stayed the pronouncement of the verdict are not part of the three-judge Bench, which is an entirely new one.

Besides the CJI, the other two are Justice Aftab Alam and Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan. These three judges constitute the Forest Bench hearing cases relating to environment.

While entertaining a special leave petition (SLP) to defer the judgment for solving the dispute through negotiations, Justice Raveendran and Justice Gokhale had referred the matter to the CJI for posting it before a larger Bench in view of the divergent views expressed by them on the staying of the pronouncement of the verdict by the High Court.

Since Justice D.V. Sharma, one of the three judges on the Special Bench of the Allahabad High Court that had reserved the verdict in the title suits is due to retire on October 1, the SLP has been listed for further hearing on September 28.

Attorney General G.E. Vahanvati, who has been asked to assist the court, is to tell the court the Centre's stand on the issue. On that day a decision to continue the stay or to vacate it, is expected to be taken by the three-judge Bench.

The petitioner Ramesh Chandra Tripathi was aggrieved over the Allahabad High Court order of September 17 refusing to defer the judgment to explore an opportunity for an amicable settlement through negotiations between the parties to the dispute.

In his SLP, he contended that when there was a crisis in Jammu and Kashmir, when most of the northern States were flood-hit and when Delhi was to host the Commonwealth Games within a few days, pronouncement of the judgment would worsen the situation and revive tensions.

Commonwealth Games 2010: Athletes warned of rising terrorism threat

A policeman stands guard outside the Commonwealth Games athletes' village in Delhi. Photograph: B Mathur/Reuters.

Athletes and business leaders planning to attend the Commonwealth Games in Delhi have been privately warned to expect terrorist attacks on tourist sites and public spaces across India, the Observer has learned.

After a week in which the Games appeared to be in serious danger of cancellation, some athletes have now started to arrive in Delhi. The first representatives of England arrived on Thursday, while Scottish and Welsh competitors were due to fly in yesterday.

But a risk analysis provided to a number of national teams – believed to include some from the UK – and major corporations has highlighted the terrorist threat overshadowing the event.

The alarming assessment, by one of the world's leading security firms, helps explain why the Commonwealth Games Federation president, Michael Fennell, warned yesterday that there was still great concern about the security and safety of athletes and officials.

In a damning indictment of Delhi's ability to protect visitors, the UK-based firm Control Risks warned that the diversion of security resources to protecting the main stadiums left India without the capacity or capability to protect soft targets, with local police not up to the job.

The firm has advised its clients to stay away from tourist attractions, public places and government buildings, and not to travel by public transport.

Chietigj Bajpaee, the company's south Asia senior analyst, told the Observer that Control Risks had advised clients to expect terrorist attacks on soft targets around India in the days running up to the Games and during the Games themselves, from 3 to 14 October.

"I think there is a relatively high likelihood of attacks taking place, but these attacks may not target the Games venues themselves," he said.

"We have advised against using public transport, advised against going to certain areas, advised against going to tourist attractions in the weeks leading up to and during the event, given that security resources will be concentrated on securing the Games themselves, so other parts of the city and the country will be vulnerable.

"We have also advised that if you are a team participant you may be more vulnerable than a tourist. We have advised avoiding areas around government buildings or anything that could be considered a soft target, such as marketplaces."

The advice was vindicated when two Taiwanese tourists were shot outside the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, in the heart of Delhi last Sunday. Initial attempts by the police to deny terrorist involvement were met with widespread disbelief and officials later pointed the finger at the Indian mujahideen, which had claimed responsibility and promised further attacks. One report, citing police sources, suggested the group had hired gunmen to attack westerners on sight.

The security warnings come at the end of a terrible week for India in which several national teams threatened to withdraw from the competition, voicing dismay at the ramshackle condition of the Games village, the collapse of a footbridge to the main stadium and the tourist shooting.

To add to visitors' concerns, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has now expressed serious misgivings about the quality of the stadiums. The institution's head in India, Sachin Sandhir, warned of serious shortcomings in the public and sporting infrastructure, despite the estimated £6.3bn spent on the Games.

"The last-minute dash to complete most venues has resulted in huge compromises on quality of projects, bypassing of clearances, and exploitation of workers," he said.

He said structures caving in or showing signs of damage so soon after being built – a ceiling within the main stadium also collapsed last week – "raise serious concerns on the structural quality, viability and safety of venues, and are indicative of the gross violations of building codes and regulations and the level of adherence to ethical professional practices".

Sandhir criticised the Games as a wasted opportunity for India to showcase its talents, blaming rampant corruption, inefficiency, a lack of trained and qualified professionals, and the allocation of construction works to ill-suited agencies. "The absolute disregard to the use of standard material and equipment has also seriously jeopardised safety of venues," he said.

In a verdict which will do little to reassure those heading for Delhi, he added: "We can now only wait and watch and be hopeful that not all the venues were subjected to this lackadaisical approach to development and, in fact, some of these will actually deliver to international standards."

Some athletes have now started to arrive in Delhi, but while organisers believe that their swift reaction to international protests – which included the prime minister, Manmohan Singh, taking personal charge – may have helped turn a corner, many parts of the city and its key Games-related projects still resemble a badly drained building site.

The first members of Team England to arrive have been staying in a five-star hotel after shocked officials deemed accommodation in the Games village unacceptable. Craig Hunter, England's chef de mission, said he was glad to see the work was being done to improve conditions in the village, but added "we are in a phase of looking at the detail, making sure that fire and safety equipment and procedures are in place and that the apartments are clean and safe. Our next wave of athletes arrives on Sunday and a lot still needs to happen before then. So more and swift action is required."

Yesterday, Fennell said there had been considerable improvements but that there was still a lot to do if the Games were to go ahead as planned. "What is of great concern is the safety and security of athletes and officials," he said.

About 7,000 athletes from 71 countries were expected to travel to Delhi, but several have pulled out, citing security fears, concerns over the accommodation and the ongoing dengue fever problem – worsened by large pools of stagnant water that have proved a breeding ground for mosquitos – as reasons enough to stay at home.

Australia's world discus champion, Dani Samuels, said the mosque shooting had led to her decision to pull out.

English diver Peter Waterfield, a previous gold and silver medal winner, said he was putting his family first and would not put himself at risk by travelling.

Govt announces Kashmir package: Eight ways to peace

he Centre took its first decisive step to quell the three-and-a-half-month-long turmoil in the Kashmir Valley on Saturday by announcing that it intended to reduce its security footprint there and appoint a group of interlocutors to hold “sustained dialogue” with Kashmiri leaders.

The package includes advice to the state to immediately release all youth detained for stone-throwing, reopen schools, make R5 lakh ex-gratia payment to the families of the 108 people killed in protests, redeploy security forces — reducing in particular their bunkers and checkposts — and take a decision on areas from where the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) can be lifted. 

“We think these steps should address the concerns of different sections of J&K, including (those of) the protesters,” Home Minister P. Chidambaram said. 

“To the extent the government’s approach is anti-separatist and pro-citizen, we will welcome it,” said the BJP, which is opposed to any move to dilute the AFSPA. 

The People’s Democratic Party, the main opposition in the state, joined J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah — who has been on the firing line for the “governance deficit” in the state — to welcome the central plan as “a good first step”. 

 JKLF leader Yasin Malik wanted to discuss the proposal with his colleagues before responding but hardline separatist leader S.A.S. Geelani called the initiative an “eyewash”. 

Abdullah said the Unified Command — which has representatives from the security forces, including the army and the state government — would meet within a few days to decide on redeployment of forces.

Kashmiri people resent the presence of security personnel — army or central paramilitary force — manning check posts or in bunkers that came up over the last two decades to fight terrorists.

Officials said redeployment of forces that would aim at reducing the visibility of central forces was a significant step but would be executed in a phased manner. Chidambaram said the government would also appoint a group of interlocutors under an eminent person to begin the process of a sustained dialogue including political groups, (and) youth bodies.

The decisions come days after Chidambaram led an all party delegation to the state to reach out to Kashmiri people.

The CCS was slated to meet next week. But with the Ayodhya verdict out of the way this weekend, the government seized the first opportunity to seal its Kashmir plan lest the gains made by the all party team’s visit were frittered away.

Rajni-starrer Robot expected to make box office history

The trailer of the Rajinikant-Aishwarya Rai Bachchan starrer Endhiran was released in Chennai on September 11 in a grand way and with great support from ardent fans of the actor. Produced by Kalanidhi Maran on behalf of Sun Pictures, the big-budget film is directed by Shankar. 

The movie’s trailer was released at Sathyam Cinemas in Chennai by Kalanidhi Maran, Rajinikant and Shankar. Those present included prominent personalities like Nadigar Sangam president Sarath Kumar, Resul Pookutty, directors Bhagyaraj, Dharani, K S Ravikumar, Parthiban, Hari, Lingusamy, Sundar C, Cheran, actors Arya, Vivek, Lawrence, Karan, editor Mohan, cinematographer Rathnavelu, art director Sabu Cyril and members of Rajinikant’s family including son-in-law Dhanush.

Expectations are running high with Rajnikanth-starrer Robot, the most expensive film produced in India, set to hit the screens next Thursday.

Sun Pictures, the film distribution and production studio of the Chennai-based Sun TV Network owned by Kalanithi Maran, has taken a huge risk by investing around Rs 150 crore, said industry sources. However, the production house is confident that it would not only be able to recoup its investment but also post profits from the project.

"Rajnikanth has a huge fan following not only in south India, but also in countries like the US, UK, France, Japan and Korea and we expect the film to do well in these regions," said Ajay Vidyasagar, chief operating officer, Sun TV Network. The film also stars Aishwarya Rai.

Sources at Box Office India said the three versions of the film — in Tamil, Hindi and Telugu — having already been sold for around Rs 85 crores Robot is off to a good start. While the Tamil version Endhiran has been sold for over Rs 50 crore, the Telegu and Hindi versions have clocked Rs 25 crore and Rs 10 crore in distribution rights, respectively. The film will be released with subtitles on 300 screens overseas.

"Tamil and Telegu versions are expected to take huge openings. Hindi versions may do well in places like Maharashtra, but north India may struggle. Overseas, the Tamil version is expected to be a huge success, as Rajnikanth has extensive appeal in places like the US and Japan," said a senior analyst at Box Office India.

Dismissing concerns over the Ranbir Kapoor-Priyanka Chopra starrer, Anjaana Anjaani – to be released on the same day – impacting bookings of Robot in northern India, Taran Adarsh, a film trade analyst, said, "Any Rajnikanth movie is awaited eagerly. The storyline is innovative, I am optimistic that it will do well with the audience. Anjaana Anjaani may impact bookings of Robot in north India, but it would also face stiff competition from Endhiran in southern parts of the country."

Prakhar Joshi, head of programming PVR Cinemas, laid all doubts to rest. "We have good expectations from Robot. We have already received a lot of enquiries about the movie. Block bookings have been made for the Tamil version in Mumbai and Delhi."

Sun Pictures plans to launch eight to 10 films this year. "We have launched three films now. Endhiran will be our fourth release, which is a one-off project. We operate at a margin of 10 to 15 per cent and any boost from Endhiran is always welcome," said Vidyasagar.

Analysts who track Sun TV Network said the ball could roll either way. "Considering that Shankar had directed Rajnikanth in Sivaji-The Boss and it turned out be a huge hit at the box office, the expectations from Robot are very high. If the film does well, Sun TV Network shares will move around 15 per cent in the near term," said a Mumbai-based media and entertainment sector analyst, who did not wish to be named.

Sun TV Network shares today closed up 1.78 per cent at Rs 517.75 at the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Parties trade allegations over Tripathi's allegianceParties trade allegations over Tripathi's allegiance

LUCKNOW: Ramesh Chandra Tripathi, the petitioner who sought a last chance for an amicable settlement of the Ayodhya dispute and actually got lucky, may be enjoying his celebrity status, but his ideological identity has set off a debate among the political parties.

On Friday, BJP state president Surya Pratap Shahi hinted at a press conference that Tripathi was a Congress sympathiser and could well be motivated by the party's concerns.

The Congress lost no time in disowning the man and actually issued an official disclaimer.

In a statement released to the media, UPCC media incharge Subodh Shrivastava categorically stated that "Tripathi is neither a member of the Congress party nor has he participated in any of the party activities."

The release further said, "Certain selfish and vested interests have calculatedly floated the rumour that Congress party is behind the Tripathi's move of filing the petition before the Supreme Court. Such claims are baseless and far from the truth."

Talking to TOI, Shrivastava said, "The move was aimed at countering the whisper campaign that has been doing the rounds for the last few days. Apart from Shahi, BJP vice-president Vinay Katiyar and even the lawyer for Sunni Waqf Board, Zafaryab Jilani, had levelled the same allegation, and so the senior leaders in the party deemed it fit to clear the air."

Mahindra Satyam to delist from NYSE next month

MUMBAI | HYDERABAD: Mahindra Satyam, formerly Satyam Computer Services, will delist from the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, after realising that it cannot meet the October 15 deadline for preparing financial statements under US accounting standards.

The news triggered a massive 26% fall in its ADRs on Friday. The domestic shares fell 6%. “Due to the late SEC filings, which are among the unfortunate results of the misdeeds of former management, we are delisting from the NYSE,” said Vineet Nayyar, chairman, Mahindra Satyam.

The company said it intends to file a Form 25, or notification of removal from listing, with the US regulator, Securities and Exchange Commission or SEC, around October 4, and anticipates the ADRs to be delisted from the NYSE on or close to October 14.

Satyam Computer Services’ promoter, Ramalinga Raju, confessed to hiding liabilities and overstating profits for many years in January 2009, a revelation that stunned investors, India Inc, the government and all regulatory agencies.

He was subsequently arrested and jailed. The government superseded the board of Satyam with its own nominees and then arranged a sale to Tech Mahindra, the IT services arm of the Mahindra & Mahindra Group.

The problems with Satyam’s financial accounts meant that the company did not publish its financial results for 2008-09 and 2009-10. The last date for publishing results for these two years under US accounting standards, or US GAAP, is October 15, according to SEC rules. On Tuesday, the company said it would publish results under Indian GAAP, but remained silent on the US GAAP numbers.

Friday’s delisting announcement is a clear indication that the company will not be able to adhere to American accounting standards in such a short time-frame.

But experts say that delisting will not solve the company’s problems.

Gloom lifts as big guns back Commonwealth Games

NEW DELHI: The first foreign athletes for the Commonwealth Games arrived here on Friday, even as the country’s administration mobilised efforts to salvage the mega sporting event, after a disastrous run-up to the event that saw a barrage of adverse global media attention.

More nations gave their thumbs up to the Games, on a day when even the weather seemed to co-operate, giving Delhi its first sunny, rain-free day in weeks. This monsoon has been the wettest in more than three decades.

New Zealand, England and Australia, which had been concerned about the facilities at the Games Village, confirmed their participation, saying they are satisfied with the progress.

English athletes, who arrived in Delhi on Friday, are however, staying in hotels for now, and will move to the Village once the quarters there are ready. The English men’s hockey team and the lawn bowling squad are among the 22-strong group of athletes that arrived.

“We don’t want to move them in one day and then have to move them again. We want them to get over their jet lag and then move in when it’s ready,” The Daily Telegraph quoted English chef de mission Craig Hunter as saying.

Chennai super kings rocks again: Beaten Bangalore Royal Challengers

Scores:

 

CSK 174/4(17) | BAN 123/9(16.2)
CSK won by 52 runs (D/L method). Man of the Match: Suresh Raina

 

Presentation:

 

Dhoni: Raina made things look easy. RCB were dealt a severe blow when Steyn got injured. Raina was well supported by Hussey and Vijay. Don't really have to say too many things to Raina. Our new ball bowlers did well to pitch the ball up and get the ball to move, we got the start that we needed on this wicket. It was important to stick to our catches and we did well. We have to see what kind of wicket is prepared to the final, so we will decide our playing eleven based on that.

 

Kumble: We conceded too many runs. The injury to Steyn and Kohli didn't do us any good. Raina played a fantastic knock. Our fielding wasn't the best, had we latched onto the catches, things could have been different. With the bat, we lost too many wickets at the outset. The CLT20 has been fantastic, I would like to thank the supporters, not just here but also those back home and those who have supported us for the past 3 years. All the best to Chennai for the final.

 

Raina: Great effort, happy to have qualified for the final. I knew that the Bangalore bowlers would come hard at me so I had made up my mind to attack right from the outset. We are all looking forward to the final.

 

Raina is the MoM for his sparkling knock of 94

Bangalore looked resigned to the fact that the match was beyond their reach even before their chase got underway! It looked like a game of 2 halves. The Chennai seamers darted the ball both ways and the batsmen were all at sea against the late swing. Chasing a stiff target RCB started off on the wrong foot. Losing Dravid and Uthappa in quick succession at the outset pegged them back, and it almost looked like those two body blows at the top knocked the stuffing out of the Challengers. Kohli couldn't replicate his magic once again and Taylor's misery with the bat continued. Manish Pandey was their only saving grace with a fighting knock of 52 but it was always in a lost cause. The CSK seamers were brilliant at the start and were backed superbly by the spinners to complete a demolition. Join us shortly for the post match presentation.

 

Manmohan disallows presentation on Games by Gill

New Delhi: A day after calling an emergency meeting on the Commonwealth Games (CWG) to impress upon the Ministers concerned need to get their act together, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday cut M.S. Gill short when Union Sports Minister offered at a cabinet meeting to make a presentation on the CWG for the benefit of his ministerial colleagues.

Sources in the government told The Hindu that Dr. Singh told Mr. Gill that as the matter was discussed at length on Thursday, there was no need to go into it again.

Apparently, at the end of the meeting, after all the items on the agenda were taken up and dealt with, Mr Gill made the offer to the Prime Minister – and it was turned down.

For the government, the last few weeks have been particularly trying, with the Ministry of External Affairs having to fend off embarrassing enquiries from foreign missions.

Special briefing

And last week, at Cabinet Secretary K.M. Chandrashekhar's instance, at a specially organised briefing for heads of foreign missions, Press Information Bureau's Principal Director-General Neelam Kapur addressed concerns about security, health and the delays and glitches associated with the Games.

Now, on Saturday, all heads of missions and chiefs of bureaus of newspapers are going to be taken to various venues, it is learnt, to counter the negative publicity. Mr. Chandrashekhar also had a one-and-half hour long meeting on Friday afternoon with Commonwealth Games Federation president Mike Fennell.

Ministers questioned

The sources said Dr. Singh, alarmed by media reports, both national and international, about shoddy planning for the CWG, on Thursday questioned Mr. Gill, Union Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy and Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit very closely on the state of preparedness of the venues and the Games Village, as well as the collapse of the foot overbridge near the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Dr. Singh wanted to know what was being done to finish the work in time.

Clean-up issue

At that meeting, when the question of getting in help from outside to help in the clean-up was mooted, Home Secretary G.K. Pillai pointed out that these people would need to be cleared by the Intelligence Bureau, given the security concerns.

With the focus now on “housekeeping” issues at the Village, top of the line five-star hotels – the Taj, Oberoi and ITC – have flown in over 50 housekeeping experts from out of town to help the government in the task of supervising the clean-up at the 34 towers in the Village, the sources told The Hindu.

However, after all the bad news, government representatives looked a little more cheerful on Friday – now that the focus is merely on getting the venues and the Village ready and the roads that connect the two.

However, large parts of the city still a shambles, with debris lying along unfinished roads, and major shopping areas that were to be refurbished to coincide with the Games, still looking like conflict zones.

English team arrives, Delhi breathes easy

The withdrawal threat is over. Delhi welcomed its first batch of athletes — from England — on Friday. Other contingents are reportedly en route. The first lot of Australian sportspersons is scheduled to arrive early next week.

The government, according to sports ministry sources, spent Thursday and Friday detailing measures taken to make the Games Village habitable and hygienic. “Sports Minister M.S. Gill spoke to counterparts in New Zealand, Australia, England, Canada and Scotland,” said a source.

“England sports minister Hugh Robertson assured us England would participate and, in fact, said he was looking forward to visiting India.” 

The only problem area now is the Village, where delegates attended a two-hour assessment meeting in the morning.  Sources said New Zealand, Canada, Scotland and England voiced concerns about some hygiene and safety issues. 

Sources said their chefs de mission complained about structural and health problems  and  were  angry  that  promises  made  to them by the Organising Committee (OC) had not been kept.

The   day   also   saw   Cabinet  Secretary  K.M.  Chandrashekhar reassure Commonwealth  Games  Federation  chief Mike Fennell that the government was addressing his concerns at the highest level. He reportedly told Fennel all issues,  including  crucial security concerns, had been addressed, and that remaining  concerns  could easily be dealt with by the Village housekeeping staff.

Delhi Chief  Minister  Sheila  Dixit,  who  made  a  surprise visit to the Village, stated: "Everything is falling into place".

However, till  Friday night, no foreign team had checked into the Village. English  sportspersons,  including the hockey and lawn bowls teams, checked into  luxury  hotels  and England's chef de mission, Craig Hunter, said the teams would not move into the Village before early next week.

As for  the  Indian  athletes, they felt the accommodations were adequate, despite morning power cuts. 

However, the gymnastics team, which arrived late  on  Thursday,  had  a  harrowing  time  dealing  with dirty rooms and malfunctioning  toilets.  In  addition,  lifts  in  two of the three towers allocated  to India (Tower 30-31) were out of order because of waterlogging in the basement.

Lodging FIR against railway, Govt

The state government is lodging an FIR against the railways for the death of the seven elephants in Jalpaiguri in North Bengal on Wednesday.

The government is going to take up the matter with railway minister Mamata Banerjee and central environment and forest minister, Jairam Ramesh who had earlier expressed concern over such elephant deaths.

Roy said that he had held meetings with railway officials and the railways had promised to run all goods trains at a speed of around 25 kmph. "But after the accident, we found that the train had a speed of 70 kmph and the DRM too said so," the forest minister said.

Roy said that if the train was running slower, then its driver could have controlled the speed on sighting elephants on the track and the accident could have been averted. This is the highest number of pachyderms killed in Dooars on a single day, the minister said.

He said his department had repeatedly urged the railways to be cautious about operating along forest routes.

Out-of-court settlement not need, Litigants

Litigants in the Ayodhya title suit do not favour an out-of-court settlement, though the Supreme Court opened a window for negotiations by postponing the high court verdict.

One of the oldest litigants in the case, Mr Hashim Ansari, said he was not in favour of an out-of-court settlement because whatever agreement is reached between the parties, it would ultimately end up in courts.

“I want the judgement to be delivered before Justice Dharam Veer Sharma retires on September 30 since after that the reserved verdict may become invalid and the process of hearing out all parties may begin afresh leading to another few decades of delay,” said the 90-year-old Ansari in Ayodhya.

He claimed the Muslim community was prepared to accept the verdict of the court and wanted the issue to get over, once and for all.

Eighty-two-year-old Mahant Bhaskar Das, another litigant in the case, too said it would have been better if the verdict was delivered by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad high court on September 24 as was originally scheduled. He said he wished the verdict would be pronounced soon.

However, Nirmohi Akhara, another party to the Ayodhya dispute, which supported the plea filed in the high court by Ramesh Chandra Tripathi for deferring the verdict to find an amicable solution to the issue, did not suggest any concrete step to find a solution in the brief time available.

Mr Ranjit Lal Verma, who represents the Nirmohi Akhara, said relying on a court order for a final solution to the Ayodhya issue was not possible as there were many parties involved and they would keep challenging any order in the higher courts.

“Negotiation is the only way out for a speedy disposal of the matter,” he said, but did not suggest any concrete step on how to go about it. He said as per his knowledge, there were no plans of meeting up with other parties in the next few days to find a solution. The Hindu Maha Sabha has also expressed disappointment over the SC stay on Ayodhya verdict.

The Sunni Central Waqf Board counsel Zafaryab Jilani said in Lucknow that Mr Tripathi was not serious about any settlement. “I don’t find any possibility of any negotiation happening in the next few days,” said Mr Jilani, who is also the convenor of the Babri Masjid Action Committee.

On the possibility of the verdict reserved by the three-judge bench becoming invalid after the retirement of Justice Dharam Veer Sharma on September 30, Mr Jilani said that in special circumstances the Centre could, in consultation with the Chief Justice, can grant an extension to a judge.

Final demand for apology sets up legal battle with Pakistan

England warned yesterday that they will start legal action unless they receive an apology from Ijaz Butt, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. In their first official move to show they mean business, the ECB and the Professional Cricketers' Association confirmed that it had sent a pre-action letter on behalf of the team.

Butt accused England of fixing the outcome of the third NatWest Series match against Pakistan at The Oval "for enormous amounts of money". His comments came following an announcement by the ICC that it was investigating Pakistan's conduct in the match, an inquiry itself prompted by information received from The Sun newspaper.

England's players are seeking a full and unreserved apology. The statement issued on their behalf said: "Mr Butt has been advised that if a satisfactory response is not received, legal proceedings will be commenced against him without further notice."

The PCB said in a statement that it had received the letter. "In this letter multiple demands have been raised. The board has instructed London lawyers, Addleshaw Goddard, to respond on its behalf to these demands," the statement said.

Tata will launch Aria this month: Price 10 lakh

NEW DELHI: Tata Motors will launch Aria a cross-over between a multi-utility and sports utility vehicle within a month. Unveiled at the Auto Expo and billed as a four-wheeler built for Indians by Indian engineers, Aria will compete with Toyota Innova and M&M's Xylo.

Sources say that the car is expected to be priced at about Rs 10 lakh. When contacted a representative of Tata Motors said that the Aria would be launched within a month and the company is keen on cashing in on the festive season

Tata Motors plans to pack the vehicle with lot of features to take on utility vehicles like Innova, Scorpio, Bolero and Xylo.

Key factor to watch out for is whether Tata Motors will price Aria above its competitors like Xylo or Innova as the competition is going to be very fierce. Tata Motors says that since it is going to be packed with features, they will really declare the price on the date of the launch.

The Aria sports a 2.2-litre common rail diesel engine and blends the functionality and comfort of a mid-range MPV with the all-terrain assurance and premiumness of an SUV. Safety features include 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), offered by an Indian manufacturer for the first time.

Tata Motors' current line up of SUVs and MUVs include Safari and Sumo Grande.

Facebook down for few hours - Thursday 23 Sep

Facebook was down for many users for several hours Thursday, the second day in a row access to the site was hampered. 

"Today we experienced technical difficulties causing the site to be unavailable for a number of users," a spokeswoman said in an email. "The issue has been resolved and everyone should now have access to Facebook. We apologize for any inconvenience."

The problem started early Thursday afternoon and was resolved by about 5:30 p.m. ET.

The spokeswoman said the issue was not related to the one from Wednesday, when problems with a third-party network provider shut the site down, or slowed it badly, for several hours. She didn't elaborate on the nature of Thursday's outage.

With more than 500 million users, Facebook is the world's largest social-networking site.

On Facebook's blog for developers, a post said the site was "experiencing latency issues," or a time delay, with its platform. But some tech observers speculated that the delay on the developers' platform was unlikely to have been the entire cause of the problem.

As usual, Facebook's outage led thousands of social networkers to Twitter to, well ... talk about Facebook.

"Somebody needs to fix Facebook ASAP," wrote Gizmodo blogger Rosa Golijan on her Twitter feed. "I don't like having to tweet to show that I 'like' all the stories about it being down."

Several sarcastic Twitter users bemoaned the fate of the undernourished virtual plants and animals of FarmVille, while others (presumably with a degree of self-awareness) remarked on the ramifications of the outage.

"OPB BREAKING NEWS: Facebook is down," read a message on Oregon Public Broadcasting's feed. "Worker productivity rises. U.S. climbs out of recession."

To promote freedom, Obama hails India's thriving democracy!!

United Nations, Sep 23 (IANS) Hailing India for peacefully throwing off colonialism and establishing a 'thriving democracy' of over a billion people, US President Barack Obama has pledged to support free flow of information to promote democracy around the world.

'There is no right more fundamental than the ability to choose your leaders and determine your destiny,' he said at the opening of the UN General Assembly here Thursday but stressed democracy would not succeed because America dictates it.


'Make no mistake: the ultimate success of democracy in the world won't come because the United States dictates it; it will come because individual citizens demand a say in how they are governed,' the president said.


At the same time, he believed 'There is no soil where this notion cannot take root, just as every democracy reflects the uniqueness of a nation,' said Obama citing several examples including India, that he is set to visit in early November.


'Later this fall, I will travel to Asia. I will visit India, which peacefully threw off colonialism and established a thriving democracy of over a billion people,' he told the annual gathering of world leaders.

Elephants crushed by train

A speeding cargo train crushed seven elephants to death in eastern  india after the animals tried to rescue two calves that got stuck in the tracks, conservation officials said Thursday. 

The baby elephants became trapped as the herd was crossing the rail line in a densely forested area in northern West Bengal State late on Wednesday night. The adults had crowded around the calves to protect them when they were hit, said Atanu Raha, the chief state forest conservator. The two calves were among the dead.

More than 20 elephants have died in a little more than a year in the area, which is known as an elephant corridor, Mr. Raha said. Rail traffic was suspended overnight and the surviving members of the herd were still at the scene in the morning, watching over the dead and injured, he said.

Sheila in charge, the cleaners troop in

After the Delhi government’s embarrassment with the foot over-bridge, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit has busied herself in getting the Games Village cleaned up. On Thursday, Dikshit, along with 1,000 NDMC workers, marched inside the Village for the clean-up job. 

The Delhi government has also roped in managers from five-star hotels in the city to supervise housekeeping work at the Village. Dikshit, who was inside the Village for nearly three hours in the morning, returned in the evening to inspect the residential towers. By night, the CM, her principal secretary, the Chief Secretary and Special Secretary Keshav Chandra had spent over six hours in the Village. 

During the day, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also held a meeting attended by Dikshit, Sports Minister M S Gill, Urban Development Minister Jaipal Reddy and Delhi L-G Tejendra Khanna to take stock of the situation. “All efforts are being made to standardise the cleanliness level in the Games Village as desired by our guests,” said a statement issued by Khanna after the meeting to which Suresh Kalmadi wasn’t invited

Goods train mows downs 7 elephants

JALPAIGURI: A goods train speeding at 70kmph through the Dooars, large tracts of which are a go-slow zone, ploughed into a herd of elephants on a clear, moonlit night, killing seven of them - the highest number of elephant deaths in a single railway accident in the country.

What became immediately clear within hours of the Wednesday 11.30pm accident was that the driver seemed to have done nothing to prevent such a high casualty - three adult females, two young elephants, an adult tusker and a calf. The accident spot is in the middle of tea gardens and there are no tall trees to obstruct vision. That, along with the fact that the moon was out, would make it very difficult to not spot the animals trudging down the tracks, foresters said.

The force of the impact, which took place 1.5km from Banerhat station in Jalpaiguri district, tossed five elephants off the tracks. The carcasses lay scattered in a 250-metre radius, with bones sticking out at grotesque angles and blood turning the tracks red. One of them had got entangled in the wheels, leaving the huge body broken and turning the flesh into a pulpy mass. For hours later, villagers could hear the death cries of the elephants.

Two of the animals, grievously injured, managed to limp off the tracks. In the morning, they were found a few hundred metres away, shivering, as they fought the agony of slow death. Both died by the time they were taken to Gorumara National Park and the Khuttimari range for treatment.

"This is murder and not an accident. Had the train maintained a controllable speed, the driver could have slammed the brakes after hitting the first elephant. Straightaway, six jumbos would have been saved. Strong steps should be taken against the driver and the railways," said Animesh Basu of the Himalayan Nature and Adventure Foundation.

The train, officials said, was travelling at 70kmph but the claim was disputed by some wildlife organizations, who said the speed was likely to be 90kmph if the damage was any indicator. The speed limit for trains in the Dooars' protected zones is between 20kmph and 40kmph. The accident spot, however, isn't in that zone.

By the time five elephants had been cut down, an adult female turned around to charge the train, claimed forest officials. The driver panicked on seeing this, and instead of slamming on the brakes, revved the train. "The train hit the elephant at full impact, dragging it for nearly 300 metres. The body got so badly entangled in the wheels that the driver had to reverse to Banerhat station," said Subhas Chandra Ghosh, ranger, Binnaguri Wildlife Squad.

Like in earlier such cases, the railways refused to take blame. On Thursday, a railway official gave a technical explanation. "The accident occurred between two tea gardens, which is not a protected zone. There are no forests in the vicinity. We are supposed to maintain a speed limit only in protected zones," the official said.

Read more: Goods train mows downs 7 elephants - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Goods-train-mows-downs-7-elephants/articleshow/6616632.cms#ixzz10Oks1RQz

PM not to meet Games chief

New Delhi, Sept. 23: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is not expected to meet Commonwealth Games Federation president Michael Fennell and has kept organising committee boss Suresh Kalmadi out of a key meeting in an apparent expression of unhappiness at the sports bureaucracy.

Fennell, who reached Delhi today and sought an appointment with the Prime Minister, has been asked to meet the cabinet secretary. The Games official is also likely to meet the group of ministers monitoring the preparations for the Games, scheduled to kick off on October 3.

Sources said the Prime Minister was extremely unhappy over the Games preparations and the controversies that had engulfed the event. He is learnt to have conveyed to his colleagues that the nation had been misled all along. 

Singh, who presided over a 90-minute meeting where Kalmadi was not present, has directed all stakeholders to ensure that the country is spared further embarrassment, the sources said.

The sources said the Prime Minister’s reluctance to meet Fennell could be traced back to events a few years ago. A section of the government was then in favour of cutting Kalmadi down to size or replacing him. But Fennell had then cited a charter to bail out Kalmadi.

With the Games now caught in scandal after scandal, a section of the government feels that the wider sports bureaucracy, not necessarily confined to the country, should not wash its hands of the mess.

Indian officials are also peeved at Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive Mike Hooper’s attempt to lay the entire blame at the host country’s doors. India has only itself to blame for the mess, Hooper told NDTV 24X7.

“The responsibility for the Games is not mine or the federation’s at all,” Hooper said, adding that the Centre “at the highest level is now showing heightened urgency”.

Kalmadi, who has been lying low for the past few days, today drove to the airport to receive Fennell. Kalmadi promised a “good Games” — a climbdown from his “better than Beijing ” refrain.

Commonwealth Games chief rushing to New Delhi

New Delhi: Commonwealth Games Federation chief Mike Fennell is rushing to New Delhi on an emergency visit amid widespread anger over India's frenzied last-minute preparations for the event which is due to open a week from Sunday.

Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive Mike Hooper told The Associated Press on Wednesday that Fennell would arrive on Thursday and had requested a meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Fennell's arrival comes as organizers struggle to cope with unfinished buildings, a 'compromised athletes' village', a bridge collapse near the main stadium and numerous other problems.

But even as star athletes withdrew and doubts over the staging of the Commonwealth Games gathered momentum, Indian officials were attempting to play down concerns as an international overreaction.

"Athletes and guests should not bother about such small matters," Urban Development Minister Jaipal Reddy told a television channel about the unclean accommodations, insisting that the Commonwealth Games village would be immaculate by the time events begin October. 3.

Officials from some delegations have already moved into the village, which is due to open to athletes from 71 countries by Friday.

As to the collapse of the 90-meter pedestrian bridge -- which injured 23 construction workers, five critically -- New Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit told reporters: "The accident is not as big as being made out to be. We are giving adequate compensation to those injured."

The pedestrian bridge, which was still under construction, lead from a parking lot to the games' main stadium.

The Games, which bring together more than 7,000 athletes and officials from all over the British Commonwealth every four years, was supposed to showcase India's emerging power in the international community. Instead, it is becoming an embarrassment, highlighting the many problems that the country is still struggling to control.
Fennell on Tuesday had written to the Indian government, urging it to finish the athletes' village. In addition to shoddy conditions inside and outside the buildings, there also are problems with plumbing, wiring, furnishings, Internet access and cell phone coverage.

New Zealand officials complained that there was excrement in many of the rooms, plumbing wasn't working, and that there were no handrails around balconies or stairwells.

"They have to come up with a clear plan to meet the needs of athletes and show they can provide consistent standards," Hooper told AP.

Hooper confirmed reports of excrement found in rooms in the village.

The games have historically been dominated by England, Australia and Canada, and all three have voiced concerns about the conditions in India.

"It's hard to cancel an event of this magnitude, but we are close to the wire, and teams may start to take things into their own hands," England chef de mission Craig Hunter told Britain's Press Association. "Athletes will start getting on planes soon and decisions will have to be made. We need new levels of reassurance."

Australian discuss world champion Dani Samuels withdrew from the games Tuesday, citing concerns over health and security, according to her manager, Hayden Knowles.

England's world champion triple jumper Phillips Idowu also pulled out, saying in a Twitter message that: "I can't afford to risk my safety in the slightest. Sorry people, but I have children to think about. My safety is more important to them than a medal."

Australia's 1990 Commonwealth Games gold medalist Jane Flemming expected more athletes to withdraw.

"The fact that someone of Dani's stature (has withdrawn) I'm sure is making a whole lot of others question their attendance," Flemming told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. "It would not surprise me if we now see a whole flux of withdrawals."

Although no country has said it will pull out, New Zealand team manager Dave Currie delivered a foreboding message in a radio interview.

"If the village is not ready and athletes can't come, obviously the implications of that are that (the event) is not going to happen," Currie told New Zealand radio network newstalkZB.

Criticism of the games have become increasingly vocal in recent two weeks, with widespread accusations of corruption and mismanagement. Organizers were also struggling to cope with unfinished buildings, the 'filthy' athletes' village, an outbreak of dengue fever and security worries.

Security has been increased after unidentified gunmen wounded two tourists on Sunday outside one of the city's top tourist attractions. An Islamic militant group took responsibility for the shooting.

New Delhi, India's capital and home to more than 12 million people, was chosen to host the 19th edition of the Commonwealth Games in November 2003. But between then and 2008, the country did little to prepare.

Read more at: http://cwg.ndtv.com/commonwealth/article/id/spoen20100154072/type/latest/Commonwealth-Games-chief-rushing-to-New-Delhi-53972.html?cp

Read more at: http://cwg.ndtv.com/commonwealth/article/id/spoen20100154072/type/latest/Commonwealth-Games-chief-rushing-to-New-Delhi-53972.html?cp