SIALKOT, Sept 14: Electioneering for the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry annual elections is in full swing by the Democratic Founders Group, as the nomination papers of all the candidates from the two rival groups have been okayed by the chamber's election commission. The polling is scheduled to be held on Sept 20 and 21, 2004.

SCCI's ruling Ittehad Founders Group leader Sheikh Riazuddin told newsmen on Tuesday that the SCCI was a democratic financial organization, which had set examples in the socio-economic development. He vowed to continue struggle for promoting democratic norms in the chamber.

Democratic Founders Group President Sohail Khawar Mir, however, accused the ruling group of using official funds for the campaign. He said the group had made the SCCI an election hall.

He said: "The chamber has been hijacked by some influential people for the last several years, who nominate the SCCI's office-bearers instead of conducting annual elections in a democratic way."

OVERCHARGING: The boatmen of the Tavi river continues to overcharge people for transporting them across the river. In their special meetings, Kachhi Maand and Phookaliyaan union councils have unanimously passed resolutions against exploitation of villagers. The villagers told newsmen on Tuesday that the boatmen of an official and few private boats have been charging Rs10 from each person for one side.