Manipur NGO's

Vikramjit needs support

2011-08-24T05:49:00.001-07:00

Despite no sponsor backing him, Vikramjit Singh has come a long way. “As age catches up, Vikram needs to achieve IM and GM norms quickly. If he's given sponsorship support, which gives him access to coaching, time to practice and overseas international exposure, I see no reason why he cannot become a GM,” says Grandmaster Ramesh. By A. Joseph Antony.
G. KRISHNASWAMY

Street-side chess games in his native Imphal attracted bets, but fascinated seven-year-old Sougaijam Vikramjit Singh nonetheless. A. B. Meetei, a big name in the sport, lived just five minutes away.
The Rs. 40 price tag, not a small amount for his middle class parents, for Philip Robar's, ‘A guide to chess,' required a promise to his mother that studies wouldn't slacken. The queen is not indispensable, that tome taught him.
Maternal uncles scolded him: The game's nothing short of gambling. Since Manipur had no reservation counters, the 24 hours to Guwahati to merely book rail tickets was nothing compared to four or five-day journeys (only one way) to places as distant as Calicut (now Kozhikode).
With no sponsor backing, the expenses, the food and the weather were just some hurdles hampering the young player's progress. Next to no access to sound coaching, books or game-related software would have laid lesser players low, not Vikramjit.
From third in the Manipur sub junior championships, he logged 4.5 out of nine in the 1993 Ahmedabad Nationals, a sound start for a beginner. In the 1994 Calicut under 14 Nationals, he tallied six, climbing to 6.5 at Nagpur the next year.
Vikram's mother was reluctant to send her son, afflicted with fever, to the National Children's Chess Festival at the Andheri Sports Complex in 1995. Only a promise that he'd give up chess if he didn't win, made her relent.
In the fray were some of the biggest names of chess — K. Sasikiran, Tejas Bakre, Sandipan Chanda Neelotpal Das, Saptarshi Roy Chowdhury, S. Kidambi and S. Satyapragyan. It was Vikram who emerged Numero Uno and thus the National under-14 champion.
With this feat, he'd booked his berth to Brazil for the world under-14 championships, where he was ‘snapped' with the legendary Anatoly Karpov. The young lad's first ELO rating was an impressive 2205 and he kept improving till fate dealt him a big blow.
Vikram's father died in 1998 and it was a struggle for his mother to look after the family. She didn't come in the way of her son's ambitions though. He persisted with the sport to prove critics wrong.
“To me chess is a sport because you play to win, an art because it has a lot of beauty and a science because of the logical reasoning involved,” says Vikram. “It is so much like life, for the lessons it teaches and the never ending ideas that flow from it.”
Unlike Kolkata-based players, with access to the latest in chess, thanks to the Alekhine Chess Club at Gorky Sadan, Vikram had his mother ailing from diabetics to look after. While others played nine major tournaments, he could manage just two, finding his ELO rating slipping consequently.
That he was capable became evident at the 2002 Goodricke tournament, where he beat Kazhak Grandmaster Temir Bayev Serikbay.
“Lack of training and playing opportunities in Manipur would have cost Vikramjit dearly,” said Tejas Bakre.
“When we played in age group competitions, Vikram would have figured in the nation's top half a dozen. But with little exposure to international competition, the talent that was obvious in him, didn't bloom to potential and instead took its toll on his game,” felt Bakre, now an Assistant Manager with Air India in Ahmedabad.
Vikram qualified for the National A on his very first attempt, finishing sixth at the 2003 National B championship at Nagpur. While his career seemed on the ascendant, personal problems plagued further progress.
Since he had no major achievements in the next two years his appointment in South Central Railway (SCR) could only be in the non-officer cadre, although he was a graduate. Taking up a full-time job had by then become a necessity for his mother's leg was amputated due to acute diabetics.
With encouragement from SCR Sports Association Chess Secretary K. Sambasiva Rao and Manager A. Alexander, Vikram's chess career revived. In the opening round of the 2009 Hyderabad National Rapid championship, Vikram stunned second seeded Sandipan Chanda in the opening round and Tejas Bakre in the second.
“Vikram was a serious contender,” Chanda recalled. “When he should have been playing good tournaments abroad, he had to travel three to four days to take part in Indian events. It was a lot more difficult for Vikram, with things so unequal that you must consider what he achieved and under what circumstances,” he said.
“The opening is perhaps the only area where he can be pinned. If he's equal with you in the middle game, he can be dangerous. Once Vikram takes the initiative, he's very difficult to defeat,” observed Chanda.
“Vikram is an example of how to continue without complaining and on how diverse Indian chess is. He was and remains talented and deserves opportunities he so sorely missed. A month or two competing in good tournaments in Europe would do wonders for him,” suggested the former ONGC employee, now on his own.
At the second Orissa Open GM tournament last year, Vikram drew with GM Ivan Farago, defeated GM Temir Bayev Serikbay, drew with GM Vokarev Sergey and subdued International Master (IM) Rustam Kaiyerbekov.
At the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth championship, Vikram drew with GM Eltas Sarfarli (ELO rating 2610) and with Anton Kovalyov (2615). Le Quang Liem at 2645 became the highest rated GM that Vikram held to a draw in the Parsvnath tournament, also in the national capital last year.
“Despite hailing from a state such as Manipur, where a chess culture is virtually absent and there are not enough opportunities, Vikramjit has done well to get this far,” said Grandmaster R. B. Ramesh. “Younger players, not just from his state but the entire north eastern region can look up to him for motivation,” said the TN player, who quit his Indian Oil Corporation job to run a full-time chess academy in Chennai.
“As age catches up, Vikram needs to achieve IM and GM norms quickly. If he's given sponsorship support, which gives him access to coaching, time to practice and overseas international exposure, I see no reason why he cannot become a GM,” Ramesh concluded.

Gadkari urges PM Manmohan Singh to solve Manipur highway blockade

2011-08-24T05:48:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: BJP president Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, urging the latter to intervene into the Sadar Hills district demand agitation and do the needful for creation of the district.Gadkari sent the letter a few minutes after a delegation of the self-explanatory Sadar Hills Districthood Demand Committee (SHDDC), including its general secretary Tonghen Kipgen and leaders of the saffron party, convened a meeting with him at his New Delhi residence in the afternoon.Manipur unit BJP secretary (media affairs) L Bashanta Sharma, who also attended the meeting, said the party, which supports the SHDDC agitation, would also highlight the matter in Parliament.In pursuit of its demand to convert Sadar Hills in Senapati into a full-fledged revenue district, the SHDDC has been imposing economic blockades on National Highways 39 and 53 since August 1. The committee has also called an indefinite general strike in Sadar Hills, which is predominately inhabited by the Kukis.On the other hand, the United Naga Council (UNC) has also imposed an indefinite bandh on all highways, including NH-150, in Naga areas since Sunday morning in protest against what it termed as the state government's attempt to bifurcate Naga areas to create new districts. On Tuesday night, suspected UNC supporters torched a rice-laden truck in Senapati along NH-39, the key supply route of the state.The strikes have already triggered a commodity crisis in the state hitting the commoners hard. In his letter sent to PM , the BJP supremo said, "You may be aware that a legislation - Manipur (Hills area) Autonomous District Council act 1971 - was passed by Parliament for creation of six autonomous district councils."He added, " I feel that your good office will intervene in the matter and forward this issue to the state of Manipur for immediate implementation of the Manipur (Hills area) Autonomous District Council Act 1971." Besides Basanta , other BJP leaders who met Gadkari included Tapir Gao, Avinash Koli, general secretary (organization ) and national executive member P Somojit Singh.

Economic blockade leads to price rise in Manipur

2011-08-21T22:59:00.001-07:00

Imphal: The indefinite economic blockade demanding conversion of Sadar Hills into a full-fledged district has led to steep increase in prices of essential commodities in Manipur, official reports said.
The blockade by the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee (SHDDC) since August 1 has led petrol to be sold at Rs 120 per litre in the black market instead of Rs 62, while the prices of vegetables have also gone up, the reports said.
Trucks loaded with essential commodities were stranded at the Mao gate border between Nagaland and Manipur and at Khatkhati in Assam.

The state cabinet met twice last week to discuss the issue, which has been opposed by several Naga organisations since Sadar hills, a Kuki-dominated area in Senapati district, also included some Naga-settled areas.
Official sources said no hasty decision could be taken because Sadar hills was inhabited by many ethnic tribes although it was a Kuki-majority area.
All opinions would be sought before the area was converted into a district, they said.

Solar power for Manipur hospitals

2011-08-20T23:38:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Aug. 21 : Solar energy or wind-solar hybrid systems will power Manipur’s hospitals and deputy commissioners’ offices by mid-2012.Announcing this here during a function, Manipur Renewable Energy Development Authority director L. Manglem Singh said the solar energy systems had already been installed at Moreh hospital in Chandel district.The authority observed the day as the Renewable Energy Day to mark the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.A two-wheeler rally was also taken out here as a part of the programme to create awareness about solar energy.“The next hospital in line is Churachandpur district hospital. Installation of equipment at the hospital has already been completed. We have also carried out the trial run. It will be inaugurated by October,” Singh said.He said all the remaining five district hospitals in the hills would be covered by next year while nine offices of deputy commissioners would be powered by solar energy by June next year.He said the authority would soon take up another programme of providing 50,000 solar water heaters for domestic as well commercial use in the state.The authority has also powered 200 villages with solar energy.The villages, located in some of the remotest parts of the state, had been deprived of electricity as their remoteness made power supply difficult.The agency also honoured 110 students who excelled in the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur, examinations this year and last year by presenting them with a domestic solar energy lighting system each.

In his sister’s footsteps

2011-08-19T23:08:00.001-07:00

Chandigarh: Growing up in Yuinban, a village in Manipur, L Devendro Singh would often accompany older sister L Sushila Devi to her training centre in Imphal, where she sparred alongside the likes of L Sarita Devi and five-time World Champion MC Mary Kom.
When his name figured on the list of boxers chosen in the Indian team for the World Championships, his dream of emulating his sister’s achievements — including two national titles — looked to be on track. With the likes of Asian silver medalist Amandeep Singh and former world youth champion Nanao Singh missing out, Devendro’s inclusion came as a surprise, but the 19-year-old light-flyweight boxer is eager to perform well.
The early lessons absorbed from his sister made a big impact on Devendro. “Often, Mary and other boxers would come home. I used to watch them and took my first steps in boxing by training with them. Since most of them were in the pin-weight category (46kg), it was never a problem for me since my weight was same in my sub-junior days.
“They would often discuss strategies and that helped me a lot. Sometimes, we used to walk more than 10 kms from the village to Imphal,” said Devendro while speaking to The Indian Express on Thursday after his inclusion in the World Championships team.
Early beginner
An early induction in the SAI centre under coach Ibomcha Singh meant that Devendro would often train, in his younger days, with Suranjoy Singh and Dingko Singh. Devendro’s first sub-junior nationals gold came in 2003. He followed that with five more medals in the junior nationals — three gold, one silver and a bronze. He went from strength to strength in junior events after that, his medal haul in the following years including a gold at the Cuba Invitational tournament in 2008, a silver in the 2010 Asian Junior Championship in Iran and a bronze in the Hyder Ali Cup in 2008.
“The silver medal in Iran boosted my confidence a lot. That event was tough as most junior Asian champions were taking part. Hyder Ali also sees the presence of European and Asian boxers and the bronze there meant a lot to me,” says Devendro, who is a hawaldar with the Indian Army and trains at ASI Pune.
Devendro took part in his first, and so far only, senior international tournament at the World Military Games in the USA in 2010 and won a bronze medal. Amandeep Singh’s fine displays in the Commonwealth Boxing Championships and during the Commonwealth Games meant that Devendro had to wait for his chances but he surprised Amandeep and Nanao at the trials with his swift footwork and hard punches.
“I was confident during the trials. After Nanao injured his wrist last year, he worked a lot with me and it helped me a lot in the trials too. Amandeep is a tall boxer as compared to other boxers in the category and I worked on my feet movement to counter his height advantage,” said Devendro.
With the World Championships starting in a month’s time, Devendro is hopeful of earning one of the available ten quota places in Baku. “Most of the Asian boxers are top ranked in the world and pose a threat in World Championships. It will be an exciting opportunity for me,” he says.

SoO signatories show pro-Sadar Hills stance at JMG meeting

2011-08-18T21:29:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, August 19 : Kuki militant groups currently under the Suspension of Operation, SoO have exerted pressure upon both the centre and state government regarding the long cherished demand of a separate Sadar Hills district of the Sadar Hills Districthood Demand Committee, said a source.According to a highly placed official source, the militant outfits had exerted pressure for the government to fulfill the demands of a separate Sadar Hills district, during a joint Monitoring Group meeting of the SoO signatories which was held Wednesday at the MHA block, New Delhi, however, the concerned representatives of the central and state government have failed to comply positively to the new demands of the SoO signatories.The source also mentioned that the JMG meeting has agreed upon the extension of the SoO for another year starting from August 22 and to further enhance the monthly stipends received by the cadres of the groups from Rs 3000 to Rs 5000.The meeting was attended by joint secretary North East in charge of MHA Sambhu Singh, officials of Intelligence Bureau, military intelligence, Assam Rifles, Army CRPF, BSF representing the central government while the state government was represented by the chief secretary DS Poonia and addl. DGP (Intelligence) L.M. Khoute and leaders of the various Kuki militant groups which are under the banner of KNO/KNA and UPF who were the signatories of SoO, stated the source.Meanwhile, the leaders of the Kuki militants who present in the JMG meeting yesterday reportedly demanded early completion of the remaining designated camps which was officially approved earlier by the government, the source added.

Manipur MLA dies in Mayur Vihar mishap

2011-08-18T21:04:00.001-07:00

NEW DELHI: A Congress MLA from Manipur was killed and another person injured when the car they were travelling in collided with another vehicle at Mayur Vihar on Thursday. The deceased has been identified as E Suraj Singh (45). The injured person, Rezi (46), is undergoing treatment at a city hospital.The incident occurred around 2am. The MLA had come to Delhi to meet his three children , who study in city schools, and had put up with Rezi. They were crossing Mayur Vihar when another vehicle bearing number DL 12 CA 1412 collided head-on with theirs. Singh was killed on the spot. The driver of the other vehicle fled the spot. "We received a call about the accident almost immediately."We rushed the victims to a nearby hospital where Singh was declared dead on arrival," said a senior police officer.

Prof HNK Sarma assumes charge as Manipur University VC

2011-08-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

Imphal, Aug 18 : The President of India, in her capacity as the Visitor, Manipur University, has appointed Professor H Nandakumar Sarma, Professor of Physics, as the Vice-Chancellor of the University. Professor H Nandakumar Sarma assumed the office of the Vice-Chancellor today and will hold the office for a period of five years with effect from August 17 or till he attains the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier. He is cuurently the senior most professor of the Manipur University.

Panel balm for people infected with HIV

2011-08-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

KHELEN THOKCHOM• Ten-year-old Ibemma Devi (named changed), an HIV patient, studies in Class I, her progress stunted by frequent illness• Matouleibi Devi (name changed), an HIV-positive widow living with her infected son, fights social stigma in addition to the immunity-shattering virus• Nganbi Devi, a teenager, is treated badly whenever she goes for anti-retroviral therapy and medical advice at a government hospitalImphal, Aug. 17: For the first time since the deadly HIV was detected in her blood, Matouleibi Devi got a willing ear today to listen to her anguish.The widow and her son, along with several others like her, lodged complaints of neglect at a two-day public hearing for children affected by HIV/AIDS organised by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights at the auditorium of Kangla fort of Imphal city today.The panel, comprising the commission’s chairperson, Shanthi Sinha, member Deepa Dixit and S.D. Dey from CRY, promised the complainants food, education and healthcare.The commission “settled” the petitions by directing government officials from the social welfare department, education department and deputy commissioners present during the hearing to look into the demands.Most of the complaints were similar.They did not get the government’s help as they were not aware of the benefits.“I stopped going to government hospitals because the doctors and nurses did not treat me and my children properly,” said Thoibi Devi (name changed).Sinha directed the officials to bring them under social welfare schemes like widow pension, loans and provide them other forms of financial assistance.She asked education director W. Rajen, who was present at the meeting, to go to Ibemma Devi’s school, talk to the school’s head and arrange for special coaching so that she can be in the right class.The official also asked the project director of Manipur AIDS Control Society, Ashok Kumar, to institute an inquiry into the denial of treatment of HIV-positive people at hospitals.She directed the education director to waive examination fees of an HIV-positive boy, who could not appear for the matriculation examination for his inability to pay the required fees.“The commission has indeed come as a blessing for us and we are looking forward to better support from the government,” an HIV-positive widow said.

Yes, you really can make a better world

2011-08-16T21:28:00.001-07:00

By Mark Hare"All these people we have helped have become friends of ours," says Natascha Yogachandra, "so it's personal for us." The work of her Hope is Life Foundation (hopeislife.org) is small scale, but life-changing.I recently had what's become my annual sit-down with Natascha, now 18, and her parents, Nat and Debbie. The Yogachandras, from Fairport, set out for India and then Thailand after the tsunami struck Nat's native Thailand in 2005. Natascha, then a sixth-grader, had been collecting books for poor children in far off places for years. She was moved by the sight of the tsunami victims and persuaded her parents (Nat is a retired Kodak marketing executive) to move closer to the action so they could do more.They rented out their Fairport home and have lived on the road ever since, raising small amounts of money and using it for very local projects — most often for schools, libraries and educational materials, but for small economic development projects, too.Natascha completed her high school education at an international school in Bangkok and has completed her freshman year at New York University, where she is majoring in journalism and anthropology.I continue to find the Yogachandras' story both interesting and inspirational because their experience shows just how much people can do with tiny amounts of money.Theirs is a hands-on foundation and they only give to people they know and whose needs they can verify. They oversee the spending and make sure that every project is aimed at helping people become independent and is sustainable. Even now, with Natascha in school, and Debbie and Nat living near Ithaca with her father, they still travel and continue the foundation's work.Just this summer they visited a dozen young women whose tuition they've been paying in a Calcutta secondary school. Some of them are moving on to college. But school administrators were direct, Natascha says, "Some of them are just not ready to go to college," she says. But they will receive vocational training and that will help them secure jobs — which is the key to escaping abusive husbands or families that might sell them to brothels. They'll continue to send tuition supports.In Manipur, near the Indian border with Myanmar, they visited a school with 143 students, many of them AIDS orphans. They have become friends with the school's owner and her husband, who is the headmaster — and they trust both of them. The Yogachandras helped them set up a small pig farm that will provide training and jobs for villagers and generate some income to sustain the school. That's the kind of project that can change lives, a few at a time.That's an important lesson, and very empowering. Natascha is certain that she'll find a way to integrate the foundation work with her after-college life and career. "This work has to be woven into our daily lives," she says.I hope many more young people get a taste of her experience. To travel the world and see just how much good each of us can do is the perfect antidote to the poison of today's retrenchment and no-can-do philosophy.Give young people a glimpse of what's possible, and they'll become not just personally engaged, but politically engaged — convinced that the United States can do big things, can put people to work, meet the needs of those in trouble and build a better country. The foundation's name says it all: Hope is life.(You can contribute by sending checks to the Hope is Life Foundation, P.O. Box 261, Fairport, NY 14450)Mark Hare's column appears on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. He can be reached at (585) 258-2351.

Manipur: The Slippery Slope, Again

2011-08-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

By South Asia Intelligence Review/IBNSOn August 1, 2011, five persons were killed and eight others injured when militants triggered a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion near a barber's shop at Sanghakpam Bazaar in Imphal East District. The explosive, planted on a two-wheeler, killed two Manipuri girls and two persons from Bihar - the barber and his son. Later, on August 2, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh announced that the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) was behind the blast, and revealed the identity of the fifth person killed in the incident as an active cadre of the NSCN-IM, named Anthony. He noted, further, that the NSCN-IM cadre, who rode the scooter with the explosives, might have had a specific target, but the device may have exploded prematurely. The Chief Minister claimed that the blast was aimed at the members of Autonomous District Council (ADC), who are housed in a nearby guest house complex of District Councils. The explosion reportedly occurred just after the vehicles of ADC members had passed past the spot.Earlier on July 23, 2011, suspected NSCN-IM militants exploded a bomb in the office of the ADC in Ukhrul District, bordering Myanmar. On May 28, 2011 three persons were injured when a powerful bomb exploded at a sports stadium (Khuman Lampak) complex in Imphal West District. The blast was apparently intended to target members and officials of the ADC, who were functioning from this location due to the threat held out by the NSCN-IM.Significantly, the United Naga Council (UNC), the NSCN-IM linked apex Naga body in Manipur, had opposed the ADC 2010 elections, held in two phases, on May 26 and June 2, 2010, under the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Councils (3rd Amendment) Act, 2008, since these were not under the 6th Schedule of the Constitution of India. The UNC argues,'Local adjustment' has been spelt in the form of the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Councils (3rd Amendment) Act, 2008, which has been carefully doctored and stripped off of all the provisions that go into self governance and the rights of the hill people over their land and resources and removing the primacy of the traditional institutions of the tribals which is enshrined in the Constitution of India. The 6th Schedule of the Constitution of India has provisions of self governance and the rights of the hill people over their land and resources and the primacy of the traditional institutions of the tribals.The UNC's relations with the State Government have been deteriorating since the killing of two students in Police firing on supporters of NSCN-IM 'general secretary' Thuingaleng Muivah, while they were taking out a rally at Mao Gate in Senapati District, when the State Government blocked Muivah from entering Manipur on May 6, 2010. The situation worsened further with the ADC elections, held after a gap of 20 years, and the UNC announced a severing of ties with the Government of Manipur. The UNC approached the Union Government with the demand for an 'alternative administrative arrangement', declaring that the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Councils (3rd Amendment) Act 2008 failed to meet tribal aspirations or to provide any sort of autonomy, leaving the ADCs at the mercy and under the control of the State Government.Subsequently, in a memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on September 14, 2010, the UNC stated that on July 1, 2010, the Nagas in Manipur had resolved, through their highest decision-making forum, the Naga People's Convention (NPC), that the Nagas would sever all political ties with the 'communal' Government of Manipur and, consequently, the vacuum in governance and administration created as a result, must be filled with an 'alternative arrangement' by the Government of India (GoI) in consultation with the Naga people at the earliest possible. It was also asserted that the 'imposed' ADC elections were "null and void" and, under no circumstances, would the ADCs be allowed to function in the Naga areas.Shortly thereafter, on October 12, 2010, the Manipur Police Department received intelligence inputs that the NSCN-IM had decided, at the 'highest level', to selectively target and eliminate elected members of the ADCs belonging to the Naga community, since they had failed to 'honour' the group's diktats for the boycott of ADC elections and, after getting elected, refused to resign from their posts despite specific 'directives'.On June 30, 2011, however, the UNC demand for an 'alternative administrative arrangement' for the Nagas living in Manipur received a severe blow, with both the State and Central Governments categorically setting aside this option during tripartite talks held in Senapati District. The outcome of these talks was in line with Chief Minister Ibobi Singh earlier declaration that a separate administrative model for the Nagas of Manipur was out of the question. The State Government indicated that the elected ADCs in the Hill region had enough power to develop their Hill Districts and redress grievances of the tribal people. Moreover, the Joint Secretary (Northeast) in the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Shambhu Singh, added, "We could not understand what 'alternative arrangement' means and the Centre is not going to do anything on the issue."Meanwhile, on April 15, 2011, eight persons, including six Policemen, were killed and six injured in an ambush laid by the NSCN-IM on the convoy party of the Phungyar Member of the Manipur Legislative Assembly (MLA), Wungnaoshang Keishing, near Riha village in Ukhrul District. On April 19, 2011, the outfit accused Wungnaoshang of working hand in glove with the Ibobi Government's policy to 'disintegrate Naga territories' by creating a new cosmopolitan District, Phungyar. Keishing, who supported the initiative, had been warned of "drastic action" by the UNC, if he did not withdraw his support for the new District. As the demand for the creation of Phungyar District becomes sharper, the UNC, on April 8, 2011, without naming the Phungyar District Demand Committee, stated,It is implicit that the demand for new District(s) at this point of time in Naga/Hill areas of Manipur is the handiwork of the adversaries to vitiate and derail the 'Alternative Arrangement' process which is in progress peacefully and democratically. The UNC reminded that the Naga people in the State of Manipur have severed all political ties with the Government of Manipur, demanding the intervention of the Government of India for an 'Alternative Arrangement' outside the Government of Manipur.Despite the threat to his life, Keishing has said that there was no question of his withdrawing support to the demand for the upgradation of the Phungyar Assembly Constituency into a full-fledged revenue District, in the interest of bringing about development and the meeting the aspirations of the people.In another gruesome incident on July 24, 2011, a young couple was killed at Lungpha village in Ukhrul District. Claiming responsibility for the killing, the NSCN-IM said that Vareignam Mahongnao was killed for his anti-Naga activities as he was allegedly working with the Manipur Naga Revolutionary Front (MNRF). However, on July 28, MNRF denied any links with Vareignam. MNRF, an NSCN-IM splinter group in Manipur, was formed in 2008 under the leadership of Allen Siro, and claims to be an autonomous revolutionary group with the avowed aim of protecting the territorial integrity of Manipur and working for communal harmony between different ethnic groups in the State.Evidently, the whole issue is intertwined with the NSCN-IM's larger ambition for the integration of Naga areas under one administrative unit, and this is the cause of the spike in violence by the group in Manipur. According to the partial data compiled by South Asia Terrorism Portal (SATP), out of the 43 insurgency related killings in 2011, 15 are associated with the NSCN-IM, including eight civilians and seven Security Force (SF) personnel. In 2010, out of a total of 138 fatalities, the NSCN-IM was involved in only one incident - on May 18, 2010, one of its cadres was killed while the bomb he was planting under a bridge along the stretch of the Imphal-Mao section of the National Highway-39 in Senapati District, blew up accidentally.On August 2, 2011, the Manipur Chief Minister, disclosed that the State Government has advised the Central Government to revoke the ongoing cease-fire with the NSCN-IM, since it continued to engage in open acts of terrorism in the State. Such advice is, however, unlikely to impact on the 'peace process' that has survived continuous breaches of 'ground rules' since the ceasefire agreement of 1997.Amidst rising NSCN-IM activities in Manipur, reports indicate that major Meitei insurgent outfits in the State are making serious efforts to form a "united front" in pursuit of their own ethnically polarized goals. On August 9, 2011, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs M. Ramachandran told the Lok Sabha (Upper House of Parliament) that these groups included the People's Liberation Army (PLA), United National Liberation Front (UNLF), Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), Noyon faction of Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP-Noyon), Vice Chairman faction of People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK-VC), Progressive faction of PREPAK (PREPAK-P) and United People`s Party of Kangleipak (UPPK).Manipur has experienced rapid improvement in its security scenario as steep declines in fatalities have been recorded in the State since 2008. All this is now in jeopardy, with the NSCN-IM's rising ambitions, and the 'reactivation' of a coalescing Meitei insurgent front. Much of the escalating NSCN-IM violence has, of course, been directed against Naga leaders who have refused to toe the rebel group's line. Nevertheless, the fundamentals of this violence are directed against the integrationist impetus of the Valley based politics and Meitei insurgent groups. Unless these inherent contradictions are managed - if not resolved - the spiral of violence can only push this unfortunate State back into the cycles of bloodletting that have wracked it for nearly five decades now.(The writer Veronica Khangchian is Research Associate, Institute for Conflict Management)

Manipur Scribes Not to Cover I-Day Celebrations

2011-08-14T23:09:00.001-07:00

The All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) has decided not to give coverage of the Independence Day celebrations in protest against 'unwanted and unexpected' police verification by going to the houses of journalists.The decision not to give coverage of the celebrations was taken last evening during an executive meeting of the union, an AMWJU spokesman said today.He said police and CID personnel went to the houses of those media persons whose names have been submitted to the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) for 'special pass' for entering venue of Independence Day celebrations. All these media persons have already got government press cards issued by the DIPR.The spokesman said journalists who were not found at their houses during the verification were told through family members to bring residential certificates for getting 'special pass' and it was very humiliating to the media persons.He said authorities also knew that only those media persons who had already got press cards issued by the DIPR could be given the special pass.He also said if police and CID wanted to verify, they should have gone to the respective media houses and met editors or senior colleagues.Due to the suspicious nature of police regarding journalists, the AMWJU would not give coverage of the Independence Day celebrations, he said.Seven insurgent organisations had given boycott call of the Independence Day celebrations and said they would also observe a general strike on the day, saying Manipur had been 'forcibly merged' with the union in 1949.

Rose Manshi calls for support to demand for Sadar Hills district

2011-08-14T22:53:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL August 15 : Rose Manshi Haokip, Kuki Mothers’ Association president in her speech during the 8th Customs and Traditional Observation day 2011 held at J.N. Dance Academy, Imphal today called for support from women civil organizations and other social organizations of the state to the demand for a separate Sadar Hills district.Stating the ongoing decades long demand of a full-fledged Sadar Hills district as demanded by SHDDC as reasonable, she elaborated that the demand is necessitated from the administrative point of view as the residents of Sadar hills have been facing hardship on a regular basis in seeking normal government assistances.She added that as the district headquarters is relatively far from the area, the residents have been constantly facing rigorous setbacks in terms of transportations and other related issues. Further, citing Sadar Hills area as being populated by people belonging to different ethnicity and communities, she said that the demand is for the convenience of all the different communities living together for the last many years and not solely for one particular community.Rose, who was speaking as the special guest during the observation of Custom and Traditional day, called for a speedy concrete affirmation from the government on the decades long demand of the Sadar Hills Districthood Demand Committee that the demand is for the territorial integrity and unity of the state and not intended towards any demand for sovereignty or with any intention to secede from the state.Recollecting the Kuki war of the nineteenth century that was fought against the then colonialist power under the leadership of General Tinto Haokip to guard from colonial threat and subjugations perpetrated to the people of the state, Rose substantiated that the intention was necessitated from the feeling of patriotism and to safe guard the territorial integrity of the state.The function, held for the last seven years organized by the Customs and Tradition organizing committee with the intend to preserve and conserve the traditional customs and practices of indigenous communities of the State was also addressed by other dignitaries.P.Parijat Singh, minister agriculture attended the function as the chief guest of the function. P.Inakhunbi Devi, sr.grade lecturer, DM Collge, K. Manoranjan Singh, additional chief engineer CADA and agriculture, Dr. S. Saroja Devi, deputy director vety. Moreh division among others also attended the function as special guests.A book titled “Luchinglen Kanhai” written by L. Mangisana, editor, chief advisor, CTOC was also released today by the chief guest during the function.Later, the function was followed by various traditional presentations that were presented by various indigenous communities of the state.

Manipur to deploy foolproof security along national highways

2011-08-12T22:23:00.001-07:00

Meanwhile, several Naga organisations including United Naga Council, strongly opposed the creation of Sadar Hills districtout of present Senapati district. Kuki civil organisationsincluding SHDDC, said they would continue their agitation tillSadar Hills area was converted into a revenue district. Over 1000 people were killed during the protracted ethnicclashes over the issue of land between Kukis and Nagas indifferent parts of Manipur hill districts in early 1990s,officials said. Granting of full-fledged revenue district to Jiribam, about222 Kms west of here, has been delayed because of the SadarHills issue, sources added.

Naga bodies continue to oppose districthood to Sadar hills

2011-08-12T00:31:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, August 11: “The ongoing general strike of the Sadar Hills Districthood Demand Committee towards the creation of a full fledged Sadar hills district could mean the creation of “War and Problem” to the native villages of various tribes mainly the Liangmai community”, said the Liangmai Naga Council, Manipur.The LNC in a statement said that about 15 to 20 villages of the Liangmai community presently falls under the so-called Sadar Hills area which have been recorded since the British Rule and in the records of Manipur Maharaja. However, after Independence of India, the lands have been occupied by other communities as villages sprang up with fake registration in the office of the Government of Manipur, it stated.It claimed that the present map for creation of Sadar hills district have been drawn with more than half of Liangmai Land even touching Liangmai head quarter, Tamei, in Tamenglong district.It further maintained that in legendary tales and history of Manipur, there are no other communities except the Liangmai in the western parts of SHDDC’s Map of Sadar Hills. It asserted that the best example in the history is the present name of Koubru Range, the word Koubru is derived from the name Koubou, the name of Liangmai forefather, it said.Moreover it stated that the range is in the heart of the present SHDDC map and further added that, the names of hills and rivers are named in Liangmai dialect.It further warned the government of Manipur against any hasty decision without the consent of the Liangmai community failing which the torn Laingmai comunity should create a district for Liangmai.On the other hand, the Naga Students’ Union Chandel (NSUC), in a statement has cautioned the present state government to take its steps with utmost care as the Sadar hills issue concerns multi-communities living together in the beautiful state of Manipur and especially since, the Nagas have been resisting arbitrary encroachment and creation of artificial boundary of their land since colonial period.It urged the government to be wise enough to curve and conduct a proper consultation with the Nagas and its sentiments in connection with the matter.It also stated that the NSUC, stand firm in supporting to the decisions and wills of ANSAM and UNC.It has further warned that it will not remain a silent spectator to the issue of Sadar hills and further informed government to consult the Nagas pre hand.

SADAR HILLS DISTRICT AND ITS IMPACT

2011-08-11T00:12:00.001-07:00

I strongly believe that no Nagas will ever oppose to the democratic aspiration of the Kuki brothers, to the demand for a separate district or even a state if it is really genuine. Nobody can deny anybody the “Right to Live” under their own administrative conveniences but any kinds of demands should never be beyond imagination to themselves as well as to their immediate neighbours. No demands can be possible in a democratic country like India without taking the confidence of the immediate neighbour and the rightful (read it as indigenous) owner of the land.SOME FEW FACTS:1.Taphou Phyamai Village with approximate household of 125 (the well known Mt. Everest College is under this village), only 2 kilometres south of Senapati main bazaar, under Senapati Town Area Council, 101% dominated by the Poumai Naga and Mao Naga tribes in and around the Village is also under Sadar Hills Map.2. Oklong village one of the oldest Liangmai Naga villages situated approximate 23 kilometres north and 30 kilometres south of Nagaland border is also under the demands of Sadar Hills. Not even a single Kuki village exists at the radius of 27 kilometres or may be even more.3. Saikul town area dominated by the Thangal Naga tribes from time immemorial till 1992 is now dominated by the Kuki community yet most of the land is still rightfully own by the original settlers.5. Irong village, headquarters of the Southern Tangkhul Naga Baptist Association (STNBA), south of Saikul, in the tri-junction of Ukhrul-Thoubal-Imphal East district, under Saikul sub-division is very much a part of Senapati district, and the neighbouring villages are all Tangkhul and a few Maring villages.6. Kangpokpi town and the vicinity, a thick forest area till the advent of British and Christianity very much belongs to the Maram, Thangal and Zeliangrong. (I was told that the Christian Missionary took the permission from the Nagas to establish Theological College and Hospital at Kangpokpi. I'm also told that even the Kukis paid annual tax to the neighboring Naga villages for living in their land even after 1947.)7. Makhan village and the surrounding Naga villages near Sekmai. If we were to believe the Manipur history books and the scholars than that area used to be Meetei Raja’s favorite hunting spot but always on the permission from the Nagas and in returned the Maharaj sent special gifts annually to the entire neighbouring Naga village Chiefs.8. The most beautiful part is the census, let the Government of Manipur official figures of the various sub-division and its number of villages do all the talking.(For convenience let me use N=Naga, K=Kuki, Ne=Nepali).SADAR HILLS WEST SUB-DIVISION –1971 = 58 Villages (34N, 11Ne, 13K)1981 = 77 villages (36N, 15Ne, 26K)2001 = 150 villages (49N, 32Ne, 69K)SADAR HILLS EAST SUB-DIVISION-1971 = 173 villages (114 N, 59 K )1981 = 189 villages (116 N, 73 K)2001 = 295 villages (124 N, 171 K)SAITU GAMPHAZOL SUB-DIVISION-1971 = 71 villages (41 N, 29 K, 1 Ne)1981 = 87 villages (45 N, 41 K, 1 Ne)2001 = 178 villages (61 N, 115 K, 2 Ne)MAO-MARAM SUB-DIVISION-1971 = 52 villages (49 N, 2 K, 1 Ne)1981 = 78 villages (69 N, 2 Ne, 7 K)1991 = 85 villages (82 N, 2 K, 1 Ne)PURUL SUB-DIVISION-1971 = 21 villages (all Naga)1981 = 24 villages (all Naga)1991 = 27 villages (all Naga)PAOMATA SUB-DIVISION-1971 = 11 villages (all Naga)1981 = 14 villages (all Naga)1991 = 20 villages (all Naga)Number of Kuki villages doubled in all the SADAR HILLS and some even tripled while the Nagas villages remains almost the same even after 40 years (30 years in three sub-division**). Now, its 10 years and the Kuki villages must have even increased by 10 times of 2001.**Mao-Maram, Paomata and Purul sub-division is not available for 2001 Census. I wonder why the abnormal growth rates of Kukis were mentioned whereas the normal growth rates of the Nagas were neglected.Now, I believe that this official figure and the ‘Demand Map’ may make much sense and change the perspective of our discussion for the demand of the Sadar Hills District in Senapati District. Residing along the NH-39 and the bogus census does not necessarily give any rights to rightfully claim the occupied LAND as YOURS. NO LAND CAN BE TAKEN AWAY WITHOUT THE WILL OF THE RIGHTFUL OWNER, IF AT ALL TAKEN BY FORCE, THAN THAT’S THE BIGGEST CRIME.“Do we ever expect the villagers to sign the agreement or vote in favour to part their ancestral land to a new district which may never benefit them? Before giving any conclusion, please remember that no proud citizen wants to be a minority in their own land”.CAUTION!Naga frontal civil organisation like SDSA, TKS, ZSUM, NPO, ANSAM and UNC have already voiced their concerned and warn the consequences to the Manipur state government for bifurcating of Naga areas without their consent for creation ‘Sadar Hills District’, would not be neglected. Ignoring Naga voices will result a communal hatred and bloodshed, even worse than 1990s Naga-Kuki clash and June 18, 2001 uproar. And, even bigger DISINTEGRATE MANIPUR is expected, instead our Meitei brothers much concerned for MANIPUR INTEGRITY. Henceforth Nagas will not tolerate those elements and the government of Manipur will be held responsible for any untoward incidents arising out of it.Nimi Kamei,A Naga Research and AnalysisTahamzam (Spt).nkamei7@gmail.com

Manipur RTI activist ostracised

2011-08-11T00:05:00.001-07:00

Sobhapati Samom IMPHAL, Aug 11 – An RTI activist in Manipur’s Imphal East district has been ostracised in his own village for raising question over the construction of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan school building.Th Biren Singh (55) of Wakhong village fearing the eviction of the village school building in future if constructed in the unauthorised land, filed an RTI application enquiring whether the school building was constructed within the school’s authorised (patta) land or not.“Now, the villagers who were believed to have been influenced by local politicians, socially boycotted him for moving the RTI case”, Manipur’s noted RTI activist Wahengbam Joykumar said. “Besides, he was not even served at the village tea-stalls or other shops”.Like Biren, many RTI activists in the State have been facing direct or indirect threats or pressures mostly from the elected representatives, the activist claimed.“So we are forming a united forum called – Transparency Initiative Manipur (TIM) for the RTI activists of the State to face such threats and pressures collectively besides monitoring relevant cases”, he added. The first State level convention of TIM on people’s rights to information will be held on August 6 next.The rights activist who had filed more than 30 RTI cases besides being consultant for 200 cases since the introduction of RTI six years ago, wondered why Police and Jail departments were exempted from the purview of RTI unlike in other States.“However, some of the citizens have benefited their basic rights after the RTI interventions,” said Kh Bobby, another RTI activist.

UNC charges state govt of bias handling of Sadar Hills issue

2011-08-09T21:13:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, August 10 : The United Naga Council will not accept Bifurcation of Naga Areas without the wishes and consent of the Nagas. The Nagas have been resisting arbitrary encroachment and creation of artificial boundary of their land since colonial period and hence any attempt on the part of the government of Manipur to create SADAR Hills district without consulting the Nagas will be strongly opposed, stated a statement of the United Naga Council.It has further stated that the Nagas have signed four MOUs with the government of Manipur, wherein the MOU of 1998 stated that “ resolution to the conflict on the issue of SADAR HILLS will be brought about through a concensus of the peoples concerned in the interest of bringing about lasting peace and harmony between the Nagas and Kukis”. Therefore, the government should not take any hasty decision in this matter.It has further mentioned that the inept handling of the present crisis and bias attitude demonstrated by the government of Manipur is viewed by the Nagas as an attempt pit one community against the other.Further according to the statement, all emergency cases including seriously ill persons should be allowed free passage for medical treatment within 24 hours time starting August 8, in the event of failing to make this humanitarian arrangement the Nagas would blame the government of Manipur for any casualties caused due to lack of medical attention.It has also warned against forcing the Nagas to contribute money to fund the agitation and asking them to organized rallies and dharnas in support of Sadar Hills district against their will should be immediately stopped, henceforth Nagas will not tolerate those elements and the Government would be held responsible any untoward incidents arising out of it, added the release.

Manipur chokes as Kukis block highways

2011-08-08T22:38:00.001-07:00

Manipur is once again facing the heat of blockade of two arterial highways that serve as the only supply routes to the state from the rest of the country.Kuki-tribe-dominated Sadar Hills District Demand Committee had called for a weeklong blockade of National Highways 39 and 53 on August 1 to mount pressure on the Manipur government to create a separate district for the Sadar Hills area, carving it out of the present Senapati district.However, the SHDDC agitationists have intensified the agitation after their last Thursday's talks with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh failed to make any headway towards solving the problem.The SHDDC has decided to extend the highway blockade programme till August 31, much to the worry of people in Manipur, especially in valley districts.The prices of essential items have already shown an upward trend, as the supply of goods along the two highways has been severely affected.The NH 39 connects Manipur to the rest of the country through Dimapur in Nagaland while NH 53 connects the state through Silchar in south Assam.Despite heavy deployment of forces, blockade supporters have dug up craters at many points on the NH 39 besides torching a number of government offices and establishments.Meanwhile, the All Naga Students Association of Manipur has opposed creation of a separate Sadar Hills district carving it out of Senapati district."The ANSAM and Nagas in general will like to remind the state (Manipur) government that Sadar Hills district will not be allowed to be created by carving the area out of Naga-dominated area of Manipur," the ANSAM stated.The Kuki tribe has raised the demand for a separate Sadar Hills district as they are wary of rival Naga tribe's demand for an alternative arrangement for administration of Naga-dominated hill districts of Manipur, including Senapati district.Manipur Nagas' demand for a separate administration for hill areas in Manipur enjoys the backing of Naga rebel group Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isaac Muviah, which is engaged in peace talks with the Centre.

Japanese delegation visits Manipur

2011-08-08T22:20:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Aug 9 : A two-member Japanese official delegation led by Minister Naoki Ito, and First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in India, Koju Matsubayashi, recently visited Manipur.During their three-day visit, they took a first hand account of the current situation for undertaking future programmes in the state.The tour was organized under the aegis of Indo-Japan Friendship Association, Manipur.The delegation met senior leaders of the state and held talks with them on various subjects."We want to have discussion with Manipur government regarding how to enhance the friendship and cooperation on economic affairs between the two sides," said Naoki Ito.

Manipuri Prostitution arrested in Bangalore

2011-08-07T21:55:00.001-07:00

BANGALORE: With the arrest of seven people including four women the police busted two prostitution rackets here on Saturday.

An apartment in HRBR layout was raided and four person including three women were arrested by the Banasawadi police.

The accused has been identified as Syed Safir Ahmed (40), a resident of Jayanagar 9th Block.

Among the three women, one lived in HRBR Layout, while the other two have been identified as natives of Manipur and Madikeri.

According to the police, Syed worked as a lab technician in a dental clinic in Jayanagar. He came to know about the financial difficulties the women were facing and convinced them that they would earn well if they joined him and introduced them to flesh trade.

They had rented a flat in the apartment and charged Rs 3,000 for an hour. Other accused in the case, Ramesh and Ravi, are absconding and search in on to nab them.

The Banasawadi police have seized cash Rs 2,000 and mobile phones and have registered a case.

In another incident, Yashawantapur police raided a house on HMT main road in Brindavananagar and arrested three persons including one woman.

The accused have been identified as Pradeep and Vinod. Another woman is said to be absconding and police are searching for her.

An amount of Rs 1,000 in cash and a mobile phone have been seized from the accused.

Manipur political parties seek one-day poll

2011-08-07T21:32:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, Aug 8 – The political parties in Manipur have suggested to the Election Commission to make the forthcoming Assembly election in the State a one-day affair.

The political parties made the suggestion to the three-member team of the Election Commission of India (ECI) which visited here yesterday on a one-day trip. The State is scheduled to go to the polls early next year.

The team led by election commissioner SY Quraishi held meetings with State political parties, besides meeting the State Government officials at the main conference hall of the State Secretariat.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, the Election Commissioner noted that his team had consultations with seven political parties of the State in order to include their suggestions.

He said that the political parties complained of rampant use of money and muscle powers during the last Assembly election and sought the deployment of paramilitary forces to rein in malpractices such as proxy voting, high expenditure, paid news, etc.

The Election Commissioner said that a committee will be appointed with a recommendation of Press Council of India (PCI) to oversee media contents like paid news, etc., and recommend action against the guilty party during the forthcoming Assembly election.

The visiting team also comprised Election Commissioners VS Sampath and HS Brahma, Deputy Election Commissioner JP Prakash and Alok Shukla and Director General Expenditure Monitoring PK Das.

Firing, arson in Manipur, 2 hurt

2011-08-07T00:00:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Aug. 7 : Two persons were injured when Manipur Rifles fired at protesters who set ablaze five government offices in Senapati district last night in support of their demand to upgrade Sadar Hills subdivision to a full-fledged district.

The Kuki community, spearheaded by the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee, had launched an indefinite strike in the subdivision on July 31 to put pressure on the government to concede to their demand. It first imposed an indefinite economic blockade on National Highway 39 (Imphal-Dimapur road) and NH 53 (Imphal-Jiribam road), the two supply lines of Manipur, and then called an indefinite strike in Sadar Hills from August 2.

Last night, supporters of the strike set fire to a post office and a primary health sub-centre at Kalapahar and the offices of the sub-divisional officer, deputy inspector of schools and integrated child development scheme at Saparmeina between 10.30pm and 3am. The arson took place after the state cabinet, which met last evening, failed to take any decision on the demand.

Manipur Rifles personnel deployed at Kalapahar along the Imphal-Senapati road, a part of Imphal-Dimapur highway, opened fire at the arsonists around 10.30pm, injuring two — Thangkhanlal, 18, on the right leg and Thangzalian, 19 on the left hand. They have been admitted to Kangpokpi Hospital in Sadar Hills.

Altogether 10 government offices have been set on fire by the protesters so far, sources said. The strike has also left Imphal-bound vehicles stranded in Senapati town. Naga organisations are reportedly helping the stranded passengers with food and board.

The Kuki-dominated Sadar Hills is located inside the Naga-dominated hill district of Senapati and has three Assembly constituencies. The demand for upgrading the subdivision is more than three decades old. Successive governments have taken the decision to create the district but could never implement it because its boundary could not be settled with the Nagas.

The All Naga Students Association, Manipur, says the district should be carved out only with the consent of the Nagas. The United Naga Council, the apex body of the Nagas in Manipur, has not announced its stand but is expected to support Ansam.

Demand to bifurcate Chandel district arises

2011-08-06T23:59:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Aug 7 : In the midst of heavy agitations going on to make SADAR Hills into a full fledged district which have left three people to death and a number vehicles burnt, a demand to bifurcate Chandel into two different districts has come into surface recently.

The Kuki Students Organisation (KSO), Chandel and Kuki Chiefs Association (KCA), Chandel has now demanded the state government to split Chandel into Chandel and Tengnoupal districts separately.

They also threatened the government to block NH 39 and call a total bandh of Chandel district if the demand of Sadar Hills District Demand Committee to make Sadar Hills into a full fledged district was not met.

Briefing media persons at a press conference held at Molnoi, in Chandel, Lathjalen Mate, President of KSO, Chandel said that the District Demand Committee, Tengnoupal had submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister way back in 2006 demanding to bifurcate Chandel into Chandel district and Tengnoupal district.

It is very unfortunate on the part of the Chief Minister to have sidelined this issue when he announced recently that the government is considering to bifurcate Ukhrul district into Ukhrul North and South and also to bifurcate Churchandpur into Thanlon and Tipaimukh districts.

KSO president further said that this shows his total negligence and detestation for the people of Chandel.

He further said that Tengnoupal has got the required population to be made into a separate district.

Apart from this the people of Tengnoupal is having a hard time to go to Chandel head quarter for all administrative works.

So the District demand committee, Tengnoupal, has now come up with different strategies to strengthen its demands.

Supporting the demand for a full fledged Sadar Hills, he said that the demand is a 39 year long demand.

Before announcing the formation of any other new district, whether of Ukhrul, Churchandpur or Jiribam, the government should first announce Sadar Hills as a district.

If their demands are not met by the government in due time KSO will be forced to block NH39 along Moreh road and call a total bandh of Chandel district.

Speaking on the occasion, TL Paokhokhai, President of KCA said that the demand to bifurcate Chandel has been initiated since 1970 .

The government should consider it on priority basis.

Hueiyen News Service

Scribe shot at, AMWJU condemns

2011-08-05T21:37:00.001-07:00

A journalist was shot at by some armed miscreants at Keishampat Takhel Leikai here yesterday. He luckily escaped unhurt in the incident. All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) and Editors met today at the Press Club led by president A Mobi Singh. The meeting condemned the attack on NETV video journalist Nameirakpam Bishorjit Singh. The government was urged to take proper action to nab the miscreants.

Manipur gets 75 seats in new working women hostel in Delhi

2011-08-05T20:45:00.001-07:00

NEW DELHI, Aug 6 : It is good news for working women from the North East states in Delhi and National Capital Region. There is a home away from home. In a joint initiative of ministry of Women and Child Development and ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, the government of India is providing a safe, affordable and comfortable hostel accommodation exclusively for working women from North Eastern states at Jasola Vihar here.

Five storied 500 bedded working women hostel with two lifts erected opposite to Apollo Hospital will be inaugurated on August 20 and its operation will be started immediately.

Its location is very close to Jasola Metro station and it has 167 three bedded rooms with attached toilet and bath. It has well furnished living room with bed, chair, table, cupboard; dining with kitchen; round the clock security services; and power and water back up.

Creche facility for working women with children, high standard housekeeping, mess provision and adequate parking facility for vehicles are available.

Working women with gross income not exceeding Rs. 30, 000/- per month, who may be single, widowed, divorced, separated, married but whose husband or immediate family does not reside in Delhi and National Capital Region are eligible to seek accommodation in the hostel.

Preference will be given to working women who are from disadvantaged sections of the society or physically challenged. Girls upto the age of 18 years and boys upto the age of 5 years accompanying working mothers will also be allowed to stay in the hostel.

Women from the North Eastern Region who are under training for job, provided the total training period does not exceed one year may also be accommodated if there is vacancy available after accommodating working women.

Manipur has been allotted 75 seats in the Jasola Working Women Hostel.

Sources from the ministry of Women and Child Development said that the ministry would like to reach full strength of the hostel as soon as possible. If any state government of NE states was not able to utilize the seats allocated to it, the same would be passed on to other NE states which has higher demands and are able to utilize more seats. For further information, the Section Officer of Ministry of Women and Child Development at Telephone Number 011-23388513 may be contacted and applicants may apply through resident commissioners of their states.

Meanwhile, Manipuri Diaspora Association, Delhi an organization of Manipuris settled in and around Delhi expresses its deep and sincere gratitude and regard to Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India for his noble gesture for constructing a dedicated “Girls’ Hostel of North East” in Delhi stated a statement of the organization.

BSF unlikely to replace Assam Rifles on Myanmar border

2011-08-04T06:35:00.001-07:00

Shillong, Aug 4 (PTI) The BSF is unlikely to replaceAssam Rifles to guard the Myanmar border, Assam RiflesDirector General Lt Gen Rameshwar Roy said today. Even as the Centre is yet to take a final call on theissue, Roy said, "There was less possibility" of the BSFreplacing the Assam Rifles as his force "is identified withthe ground, the people and the terrain". "Discussions are going on. But I am sure ultimately itwill be in our favour. Indications are such. It is because ofthe fact that Assam Rifles has domain knowledge about thepeople, terrain and complete operational situation in theMyanmar border," he said. Roy said as Assam Rifles has been manning the 1640-kmborder for many years now, it would be difficult to replaceit. Asked how close to the border the Assam Rifles posts canbe set up, Roy said, "It will depend on the infrastructuredevelopment. As the roads keep on developing towards theborder, we will keep on going closer. We cannot sit in thejungle. It does not solve the problem." "But with development of infrastructure, the troops willkeep moving closer. The post at Moreh (Manipur) for example isbang on the border," he told PTI. Earlier, the Centre was considering deployment of theBSF along the Myanmar border.

Illegal red wood worth crores seized

2011-08-04T00:51:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, Aug 3: 27 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of Red Shield Division seized high value red wood worth crores at Singhat. Two trucks with registration numbers NL 07 A 3790 and NL 05 D 1933 moving from Imphal towards Songtal were intercepted by a vehicle check post established by 39 Assam Rifles at Singhat. Both the trucks did not possess any valid vehicle documents. The drivers of the trucks claimed to have been carrying rice bags and soyabean bags to Mizoram.

The trucks were checked threadbare and it was found that each of the trucks was carrying 200 big logs of red wood. The drivers of the trucks have been identified as Muanminlian and Lalminlian. Both the drivers revealed the name of the owners of the trucks.

The case is being investigated in consultation with the forest officials. It would be relevant to mention here that this high value wood is smuggled into Myanmar where it is used to make statues of Budha, perfumes, incense sticks and various other artifacts which are sold at high price in Thailand and South East Asia.

The smuggling of this high value red wood has come to light in Churachandpur in the recent times and 27 Sector Assam Rifles has intercepted such a consignment for the second time in last one month.

Manipur shutdown cripples normal life

2011-08-03T06:18:00.001-07:00

Imphal: Normal life in Manipur was disrupted today in response to a 12-hour strike called by the All Manipur Students’Union (AMSU) to protest the bomb blast on the outskirts of the capital in Imphal West district.
All transport services between Manipur and rest of neighbouring states were cancelled because of the strike which began at 5 am, an official said.
The strike exempted media and essential services like medical and water supply.

A policeman guards the site of a bomb blast at Sangapham Bazar in Imphal East on Monday. PTI

Five persons were killed and at least eight others seriously injured when suspected militants exploded a powerful bomb at Sangakpham area near the guest house of Autonomous District Council (ADC) office on Monday.
An official statement said the blast was triggered by the militant outfit, NSCN-IM.
The Manipur government conducted elections to the six autonomous district councils late last year but it was opposed by some hill-based organisations who demanded extension of sixth schedule of the Constitution to all six hill districts of Manipur.
These organisations in separate statements did not favour holding elections to autonomous district councils where elections were not held for over 20 years.
Manipur’s total area is 22,327 square km out of which 90 percent constitutes hill areas where less than 40 percent of the population lives.

Manipur has maximum handloom clusters in NE region

2011-08-03T01:46:00.001-07:00

With 39 handloom clusters, Manipur has become the biggest handloom clusters hub in the North eastern region, surpassing all the other States in the region.

This was stated by O Nabakishwore Singh, Principal Secretary in the Manipur State’s Department of Commerce and Industry, while speaking on the occasion of 12th Handloom day.

Mr. Singh highlighted the socio-economic importance of the handloom weavers, craftsmen, etc in preparation of handloom products and stressed on the requirement of maintaining quality as well as quantity of the handloom items to fulfil needs of potential customers.

While speaking about protection and expansion of handloom sector in the State, he said that the government has designed several schemes and projects for the purpose. He particularly cited the scheme of building 1860 work sheds for handloom craftsmen.

He disclosed that the government has consulted the concerned department of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in this regard.

Mr. Singh further stated that the State government has got in touch with the concerned Ministry of the Central Government to propose inclusion of a provision for development of the State’s handloom industry in the 12th Five Year plan which would begin next year.

Further, while calling the attention of the concerned government department, he stressed on the need to develop and revitalize sericulture industry in the State.

Chingtam Luwang of Handloom Promotion Council said that since its foundation in 2000, the Council has been urging the government to devise a Handloom Policy of the State and to set up a separate handloom department within the government.

2 foreigners apprehended, drug seized

2011-08-02T01:47:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Aug 2 : Two Myanmar nationals have been nabbed from near the Manipur-Myanmar border areas.

Assam Rifles officials said troops of Assam Rifles launched an operation at Sita Track Junction yesterday and nabbed a Myanmarese national from a four-wheeler coming from Imphal to Moreh.

He was handed over to Tengnoupal Police Station, AR sources said.

In yet another incident, troops of Assam Rifles launched an operation at the border town of Moreh yesterday and apprehended another Myanmarese national on his way to Moreh.

Four kgs of opium was recovered from him and he was handed over to the Narcotics Control Bureau, Imphal, AR sources added.

Bethsaida centre torturing inmates: CoNE

2011-07-31T23:22:00.001-07:00

By Joseph Joute

Imphal, Aug 1 : The first of its kind in Churachandpur, the International School of Western Music, Tidim Road today held its 2nd Thanks Giving Day at the Cozy World restaurant where hundreds of music children, social leaders and church leaders attended the function.

A project of International Music Foundation, the Music School was sponsored by the Hmar People Convention (Democratic)/HPC (D) with a sum of Rs.3.5 lakhs for a two month Western Music Course.
The main event held at Synod Building was graced by Lal Hossan, Executive member, ADCC as the chief guest, Songneilien Songate, social sorker as guest of honour, Kamsuanlun, EM, ADCC as functional president and Khamlian Khup, Secretary, Zomi Council as the chief host.

Special invitees from the Kuki Inpi, Hmar Inpui, Zomi Council and other tribe leaders including church leaders attended the function.

The Director of the Music School James T Joute said theme of the Music School is Peace, Love and Harmony, which is the need of the district, and he is trying to promote through music.

Participants at the inaugural programme of the International School of Western Music
Speaking at the function Lal Hossan said, that music is a universal language and an important instrument to build up the youth of our society towards a more peaceful and developed society.
Training up a child in music other than other harmful activities is a good way of promoting peace and harmony, he said.

This Thanks giving Day is a platform which brings together various tribe leaders of the district and could be a very helpful instrument in ushering peace and harmony in or land, said F.Doliensung, Hmar Inpui secretary adding that the institute honours HPC (D) for its brotherly gesture by funding the project and handed over documents related to the implementation of the music project.

It maybe mentioned that the KNA has also once funded the Music Project for a specific music project to the same institute.

James T Joute said objective of the Institute is to promote excellence in music education.

Till date it eight students from the institute has got placement in reputed international music school starting with appreciable income, and 23 young kids have been trained as mini-musician, he said.

The Institute presently offers Music course such as; Trial 1 month, Basic 6 months, International Course one year and reference to Trinity London School of Music.

James has an experience as Music Director of over 10 years.

The Music School hopes to organize more events in the future to promote peace.

The Sangai Express

3 held for child trafficking in Manipur

2011-07-28T21:17:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Jul 29 : Three persons, including two women, were held by Manipur police today for allegedly bringing in eight children to the state to use them for begging and other purposes.

Imphal East police said the accused, Nandu Vaid (35), his wife Tamater (35) and another woman Kamakhya, all hailing from Jalpaiguri in west Bengal, were held after a complaint from the State Child Welfare Committee.

Eight children, between the age group of four to eight, were brought by them from their state and forced to do various illegal activities.

The trio were produced before a court today and remanded to 14 day police custody for violation of Juvenile Justice Act.

The children would be sent back to their respective places.

Japan to help build hospital in Manipur

2011-07-28T20:44:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 29 : The minister-in-charge of political affairs of Japanese embassy, New Delhi, Naoki Ito, today laid the foundation stone of a hospital, Japanese Hospital Manipur. It is proposed to be set up by an Imphal-based trust called Japanese Second World War Victims Memorial Hospital Trust, Manipur, at Khabeisoi, 5km from here in Imphal East.

Naoki, along with Matsubayashi Koju, the first secretary, Japan embassy, was here for three days. They arrived here on Tuesday and left for Delhi this afternoon after laying the foundation stone.

The Japanese government has assured the NGO to provide Rs 45 lakh for construction of the hospital on an initial plot of 1.25 hectares. In the first phase, the NGO plans to construct four blocks, surgery, medicine, gynaecology and accupunture, each having 30 beds. Japan will provide the funds from the scheme, Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects, that gives financial assistance to NGOs working at the grassroots. The trust is working to improve the relationship between Manipur and Japan which have links since World War II, during which many Japanese soldiers died in Manipur.

Relatives of the Japanese soldiers visit Manipur to pay homage to their dear ones. In memory of the Japanese soldiers, a peace park was constructed at Maibam Lokpa Ching in Bishnupur district, 17km from here.

“After the first Rs 45-lakh aid, we will approch the Japan Bank for International Cooperation for more financial assistance. We have prepared the project report and are ready to submit it to the bank,” the president of the trust, Rajen Ayangba, said.

He said the hospital was to be constructed in memory of the Japanese soldiers who had died in Manipur.

Ayangba said the trust planned to acquire more land as the hospital plan was to have 24 blocks or departments. The Japanese government has promised to extend all possible help to the hospital.

During their stay here the two officials visited Indian National Army memorial complex at Moirang, India Peace Memorial, known as Peace Park at Maibam Lokpa Ching, in Bishnupur district and Manipur University at Canchipur in Imphal West.

The Indian Peace Memorial was constructed by Japanese war veterans in memory of Japanese soldiers killed here.

“It is a matter of satisfaction that a peace memorial has been constructed here. This is the symbol of cooperation between Manipur and Japan. From this foundation, we can build further friendship and cooperation between Manipur and Japan,” Naoki said.

Manipur emerges victorious at the women's sub-junior boxing

2011-07-28T20:43:00.001-07:00

NEW DELHI: The final day of competition at the 2nd sub-junior women's national boxing championship presented by Monnet I spat and Energy Limited and young emerging pugilists of India were one step away from being crowned "Sub-Junior National Champions". The JCT College of Engineering in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu played host to some scintillating boxing action and after four days it was time for the final battle.

Going into the finals, it was a fight between Madhya Pradesh and Manipur. Out of the 10 players in the semifinals for Madhya Pradesh only 6 qualified for the finals. Manipur on the other hand saw seven of its boxers making to the last stage, whereas Delhi and Haryana had 5 players each reaching the finals.

The day though belonged to the state of Manipur. With seven young glove women making it to the finals, the state of MC Mary Kom was already looking to secure the top honours - and so it did.

TS Merina Chiru (50kg) and L Holena Devi (54kg) in the 14-year group accompanied with N Jarina Devi (42 kg) of the 13-year group and KH Binata Devi in the 12-year group all notched up resounding victories in the summit clash to claim the yellow metal, thrusting Manipur into the top spot.

Merina Chiru and Holena Devi completely outclassed their opponents Taslima Khatun of West Bengal and Mohini Bute representing Maharashtra respectively, with the referee having to stop the fight in the second round. Jarina Devi and Binata Devi also secured decisive, although on points against local girl R Sindhu and Shama of Punjab.

The North Eastern state, which has been continuously strengthening the Indian pool of boxing talent, claimed the sub-junior national title with 4 gold medals, 3 silver and 2 bronze. Hosts Tamil Nadu took the second spot with 3 gold and 3 silver, while Haryana brought up the third position with 3 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze medal.

The final battle turned out to be a disappointment for the central state of Madhya Pradesh. Asha Roka and Anjali Sharma were the only two boxers who were able to manifest their dreams into reality with a victory in the finals. Roka, playing in the 38 kilogram weight class of the 13 year group, completely outclassed Jashanpreet of Punjab in a one-sided contest, while Sharma pulverized Gorla Jyothi of Andhra in another skewed battle in the in the 38 kilogram weight class of the 12 year group.

In the 42 kg weight division (14 years), Nisha Jatav's purple patch was cut short by the feisty boxer Pooja. Jatav was out of sorts against the Haryana girl and could not play her natural game. Pooja a silver medallist at the inaugural Sub-Junior Women National Championship claimed her first national gold with an 18:7 victory, where Nisha had to make do with a silver medal performance. Raksha Gope (48kg) of the same age group and Sarita Singh Toman (46kg) along with Upasna Pandey (50kg), in the 13 year group, also suffered the same fate taking MP out of contention in the championships.

Traffickers land in cop custody

2011-07-27T22:01:00.001-07:00

Trio claim to be from WB

Imphal, July 28 : Police arrested three non-Manipuris, including a couple yesterday, on charges of trafficking children for begging. Six children brought from outside Manip-ur by them were also rescued.

The three arrested persons were identified as Nandu Ved, 35, his wife Tamator, 35, and another woman identified as Phul Kumari, 30. The police and Child Welfare Committee, Imphal West, said the three persons claimed to be from West Bengal, but their exact origin is being investigated.

All three were produced in an Imphal East court today and remanded in judicial custody for 15 days. They came to Manipur on Monday along with the children in the age group of six months to 12 years. Two of them are children of the couple.

The police said the trio were picked up from near Mahabali in the city along with two children yesterday. Four children were in the custody of Imphal West Child Welfare Committee and two went to jail along with their parents.

The police said the children were very young and they could not be separated from their mother.

Child Welfare Committee chairperson Annie Mangsatabam said the matter came to light after the police found two children loitering around last night and handed them over to the committee.

“After investigation we came to know that they were brought to Manipur on Monday by some persons and lost their way while begging in the city. Then we lodged a complaint with the police and three were arrested yesterday,” she said.

Two other children were also rescued by the committee and taken into its custody.

The police said two children were with the trio when they were picked up yesterday. The police and the committee suspect some more children were brought along with the six and are looking for them.

“The trio possessed forged documents and we could not believe they really hail from West Bengal. They sometimes said they came from Dimapur, sometimes Bihar and sometimes West Bengal. We are trying to find out their exact origins. They could also have come from Bangladesh,” Mangsatabam said.

The police, however, said they “looked like Bengalis.”

In the FIR, the address of the trio is recorded as Kamakhagori Super Market, West Bengal. They were found at a temporary shelter at Mahabali here yesterday.

Mangsatabam said the trio forced the children to beg in different parts of Imphal; two of them lost their way and were found by the police.
Top

Manipur School refutes allegations

2011-07-27T22:00:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 28 : Sainik School, Imphal, blamed “corrupted mindsets” for the agitation by Class IX and X students on Sunday and Monday and said it was an attempt to tarnish the image of the school and its principal Col Ravi Kumar.

This is the first time the school has reacted officially to the agitation by the students who demanded withdrawal of the code of conduct card issued to students and against the alleged high-handedness of the principal.

The school termed the allegations against the principal and his family members as baseless and said it was an attempt to settle personal scores. It did not, however, specify who the disgruntled elements were.

It said the conduct card was implemented to ensure “meticulous discipline without physical, corporal, suspension, withdrawal, punishment from this academic session”.

“The principal never picked up a cane or an instrument to give corporal punishment to students. The reality was that since his arrival, physical punishment, ragging or beating and other forms of corporal punishment had become obsolete in the school and the principal never used abusive language,” the statement given by the school said.

Manipur rivers in spate, camps opened

2011-07-27T02:13:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Jul 26: Manipur today experienced heavy rainfall which aggravated the flood situation in the state.

Incessant downpour since past few days resulted in rising water levels of the main rivers.

Large numbers of houses have been inundated at Uripok, Lamphel, Sagolband.

Large tracts of agricultural lands at Imphal West, Thoubal, Imphal East, Bishenpur districts have been flooded.

Those living beside Nambul river are badly affected and many people displaced.

Ministers, local MLAs and officials are touring the flood affected areas regularly.

The 27 Assam Rifles has established the flood relief assistance camps to provide assistance to the affected populace of Nungu, Khogjam and Chairel villages in Sugnu area of Thoubal district.

A major portion of these areas were submerged under flood waters leading to displacement of a substantial number of local people to relief shelters.

Preventive measures are being carried out to avert an outbreak of water borne diseases such as diarrhoea, cholera, anaemia, dengue and dermatological problems.

Sit-in-protest to demand district in Manipur

2011-07-27T01:55:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 27 (PTI) Hundreds of people launched a sit-in protest to press for creation of Sadar Hills area in Manipur's Senapati district as a district, official reports said today.Reports said hundreds of people including women gathered at Kangpokpi town hall area, about 35 km north of here, yesterday and launched a sit-in protest demanding conversion of Sadar Hills area into a full-fledged revenue district.Tonghen Kipgen, secretary of Sadar Hills District Demand Committee (SHDDC), which organised the protest, said they would launch a series of agitation including economic blockade of NH-39 (Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati) to press their demand.Major portion of NH-39 in Manipur passes through Sadar hills area.Official sources said previous Manipur governments had decided to convert Sadar hills area into a full-fledged revenue district but it withdrew at the last minute.Kuki-majority Sadar hills area is also inhabited by different ethnic communities including Nagas, Nepalis and Meiteis, sources said adding that a section of an ethnic community had objected to Manipur government's decision to convert the area into a full-fledged district.

MPP raises President's rule cry in Manipur

2011-07-27T01:54:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Accusing the Congress-led Secular Progressive Front (SPF) government in Manipur failing in several fronts, the opposition Manipur People's Party (MPP) has sought imposition of President's Rule in the troubled state.

One of the oldest regional parties in the northeast, the MPP said the next assembly election should be held at the earliest for the installation of a new government. A memorandum to this effect was sent to President Pratibha Patil by the party president and former minister Nimaichand Luwang on Tuesday.

On Public Distribution System ( PDS)), the memorandum alleged that almost all its items such as rice and sugar have been sold out in the local market without distributing to the card holders. "Sometimes, only 8 to 10 kg of rice were made available to some cardholders and that too at the higher rate of Rs 15 per Kg only for 5/6 months in a year" the memo said.

On Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), the MPP, which has five MLAs in the 60-member assembly, contended that no components of it - books, uniform and mid-day-meal - were made available to the beneficiaries (students) despite crores of rupees being sanctioned for the purpose.

The MPP said the law and order situation in Manipur was worsening everyday as incidents such as ransom, extortion and grenade attacks have become a routine affair.

`Sadar Hills people deprived of Rs.38000 crores development package`

2011-07-27T01:40:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, July 27 : Representatives of various Kuki civil bodies, member of district council (MDC) and member of Sadar Hills districhood demand committee (SHDDC) today staged a sit in protest demonstration at the office complex of the additional deputy commissioner (ADC), Kangpokpi, against the 40 year denial of full fledged districthood to Sadar hill autonomous district.

The protest was jointly organized by the SHDDC and MDCs wherein various Kuki civil bodies like the Kuki Innpi Sadar Hills, KSO sadar hills, Sadar Hills Chief Association (SAHILCA), Kuki Women Union Manipur, Thadou Students’ Association Sadar Hills, Kuki Innpi New Keithelmanbi Block, Kangchup area Tribal Youth organizations, KSO new Keithelmanbi, KSO Saikul, took part.

Later a memorandum addressing to the Chief Minister of Manipur was submitted to the ADC Kangpokpi, H. Rupachandra Singh, by the leaders of the various bodies including the chairman of Autonomous District Council Kangpokpi, S. Sheipu.

Briefing media persons on the sideline of the protest SHDDC secretary, Tonghen Kipgen, said “we are spearheading the sentiments of the people of Sadar Hills, we are leading the citizens of Sadar Hills as an example”.

He further disclosed that the committee will declare its further course of action in few days time.

The SHDDC in the memorandum mentioned that the trust of the people of Sadar Hills Autonomous District Council has on successive Manipur Governments have been very strong that they have been the most peaceful, patience and democratic citizens not only of Manipur but also throughout India with regards to their demand for districthood is concerned.

The people’s patience for almost 40 years for the complete concretization of Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Council Act 1971 in respect of Sadar Hills Autonomous District council should be seriously considered by the state government, it urged.

It further claimed the prolonged delayed of granting districthood have denied the people the opportunities for all round developments. Socio-economic developments that have been lost during the period of about 38 years will amount to Rupees 38,000 crores as rough estimate.

“We are now really surprised and questioned ourselves as to if we live in a state where the government does not want development of its land and people; is the constitution of India partial amongst the different sections of citizens of the state, is the boundary of Manipur not definitely demarcated so that our citizenship to a particular state is not yet clear: how has the state that has the earliest democratic form of government in the whole south east Asia could manipulate and neglect an Act of Parliament? We have no choice other than posing to ourselves these simple but hard questions. We still believe that the government of Manipur has answers to them” it said.

While comprehending the facts and circumstances it concluded that the propriety of politics and would be a means of doing social justice as well as a way of dispensing equal development to all sections of the Manipuri society to fulfill the demand of Sadar Hills’ people. It further asserted that spearheading the sentiment of the people SHDDC, MDCs and public leaders sat together today, the 26 July at Kangpokpi protesting the 40 years denial of our genuine demand for districthood for speedy developments of the people under the Sadar Hills Autonomous District.

Further it reiterated that the Sadar Hills be declared the 10 full fledged district of Manipur at most immediate times.

Flare-up at army school in Imphal

2011-07-25T23:30:00.001-07:00

‘Haughty’ principal draws students’ ire

Sainik School Imphal.
Imphal, July 26 : Classes were disrupted at the Sainik School Imphal today after senior students revolted against school principal Col Ravi Kumar, alleging “ill-treatment” of students.
Sources said students, mostly belonging to Classes IX and X, refused to attend the morning physical exercise and also classes, demanding the resignation of Col Kumar.
Eyewitnesses said students belonging to these classes came out of their rooms, walked up to the closed gate of the school all the while shouting slogans against the principal. They demanded that they be allowed to go home and stay there till the principal resigned.
The students alleged that Col Kumar ill-treated them and was always “rude” to them.
Sources said trouble was brewing on campus since July 14 after Col Kumar allegedly spat at one of the Class IX students apparently in retaliation to alleged spitting by this student on the principal’s son — who is also in Class IX — after the boy reported the matter to his father.
Col Kumar also beat up some of the students of Class IX that day, the students alleged.
What triggered today’s agitation is not clear, but sources said the students were angry following the July 14 incident.
Sources said the students damaged some furniture last night and refused to go to their rooms. They remained outside their rooms last night till 2.30am when they were finally persuaded by the school authorities to go back to their rooms.
The school authorities called the parents of the students to the school and sought their help in persuading the students to restore normality on campus.
The principal was not available for his comment.
The registrar of the school, Maj. Anand Thoudam, confirmed the agitation and disruption of classes.
“This is an in-house problem and a minor one. We called the parents here to seek their help in making the students understand. We are trying to resolve the issue (student agitation),” the registrar said.
The official maintained that the exact cause of the agitation was not known. Some classes were disrupted, he admitted.

Manipuris rejoice athletes' Arjuna glory

2011-07-25T23:28:00.001-07:00

Imphal: Sports lovers in Manipur are on cloud nine with two athletes from the state being recommended for this year's prestigious Arjuna Award. On Friday, the award committee recommended pugilist Mayengbam Suranjoy and Wushu player W Sandhyarai Devi's named for the award.

This comes at a time when top woman weightlifter, Renubala Chanu, decidingto return the gold medal that she won in the Commonwealth Games last year to the sports minister. Renubala, who won a gold in the 58kg category in the CWG, said she was hurt at not being named for the Arjuna Awards after 11 years at the top level and winning medals at the international level.

A resident of Uchiwa Awang Leikai village in Imphal West, Suranjoy has bagged a number of laurels, including gold in last year's Delhi Commonwealth Games, while Sandhyarani, has bagged silver in the women's Sanshou 60kg category at the 16 Asiad in China's Ghanzhou city.

Five-time world women boxing champion MC Mary Kom was one of the members of the awards' selection panel, which sprint legend PT Usha headed.

The recommendation of the two athletes has brought immense pride to Manipur, which already has a number of Arjuna awardees.

"We will hold a fitting programme to felicitate them after they bag the awards in the formal conferring ceremony," said L Manglem Singh, secretary Manipur Olympic Association (MOA).

Country's ace archer Laishram Bombayla Devi, who has qualified for the ensuing London Olympics, is the daughter of Manglem.

Members of a sporting club in Imphal, while expressing their utmost joy over the selection of Suranjoy and Sandhyarani for the prestigious award, said the two athletes deserved the awards.

"We have sports in our blood and it should be tapped systematically. The government as well as sports experts should frame a comprehensive policy to ensure that the current sports movement moves in a faster pace," said a member of the club.

Known as the country's mini-powerhouse of sports, Manipur has also produced over nine Olympians and two Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna awardees, including Mary Kom and hordes of international players.

Media in Manipur: Time for reality check

2011-07-25T23:08:00.000-07:00

Money is important, very important. In fact it is the wheel around which the world revolves and this is the reason why Bill Gates was known more as the richest man on earth at one point of time than as the man behind Windows or Microsoft.

The Sultan of Brunei will most probably figure in the consciousness of quite a large number of people but few would be able to put their finger on the map of Brunei and the reason why his reputation has preceded his country is nothing but money, again.

However in as much as money is needed there is a huge difference between building a fortune and fattening one's wallet through dubious means and this is probably the reason why there was no overt hue and cry when the then Prime Minister Deve Gowda dumped protocol and personally called on Bill Gates during his visit to India in the latter half of the 90s.

Imagine the stink it would have raised if Mr Gates had raised his money through money laundering or by running a gun racket ! This brief observation has been mentioned in the face of the debate and discussion sparked off by an article which appeared in the My Turn column of this news paper (English edition) on July 24.

The article primarily dealt with the effectiveness or rather the ineffectiveness of the media in Manipur and sought to analyse the probable reasons for this, but in the process, the question of how much or how little journalists earn here as salaries suddenly became the lightning rod of many comments.

Given the importance of money, this is no doubt important and one may even be forgiven for making this central to the whole discussion and in making this topic the central point of the discussion, it invariably envelops the question of whether money should be such a defining factor in deciding how one fits into one's profession or not.

Should leeways be allowed because journalists are an underpaid lot ? Has the media in Manipur become some sort of a toothless tiger in the face of its dependence on Government largesse in the form of advertisements ?

Is society or the Government indifferent to the media because of the quality of the people involved in the profession of journalism ?

These are some of the points which were invariably thrown up in the course of the discussion and while there were elements of truth in all the views expressed, there is still the need for the media itself to go in for a bout of reality check, without any ifs and buts.

For any reality check to have an impact, unalloyed sincerity is called for and it is important to acknowledge that this exercise cannot be held to please anyone. The question is whether the media fraternity and establishments are ready to face the ugly truth or not.

But face it we must, for we can no longer afford to adopt the Ostrich like attitude any longer.

First of all there is the urgent need to question why the low pay and salaries of journalists, and here we include the Editors, the sub-editors, the reporters and even regular columnists, should be viewed as the cushion for the shortcomings we see all around.

Does this mean that the lower one's salary is, the longer the rope should be for one to engage in activities that does not fit the job profile or at times even run contrary to it ? Does the low pay mean that all should look the other way if a journalist uses his ID card to land a plum contract work ?

Why is the media in Manipur not able to attract the best brains around ? Is it because of the extremely low pay and salary or is it because of the demanding nature of the profession or is it because a job in the media carries no status at all ?

There are no easy answers to these questions, for sure, but at the same time we need to remember that anyone not satisfied with his salary or pay has no business to prostitute the profession he is in and this applies to all not only journalists.

For that matter, such is human nature that no pay or salary will be deemed enough or satisfactory but under no circumstances should these factors be cited to justify selling one's soul to the devil.

This is the reason why Anna Hazare has become some sort of an icon and why the Lok Pal Bill has perhaps become the most well known Bill in a long, long time in India.

For the media to be able to frighten the wit out of the Government or any one for that matter, it must have credibility. This is a truism which is acknowledged by all the journalists in Manipur, but the bitter truth stares one in the face when attempts are made to seek this credibility rather than earn it.

It is only when a distinction between earning it and seeking it is clearly drawn can the media learn to stand straight when asked to kneel.

For too long it has been a case of crawling when asked to kneel.

Imphal remembers 'fake-kill' victims

2011-07-24T00:14:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: A large number of people on Saturday paid floral tributes to reformed rebels Chungkahm Sanjit and Rabina Devi who were gunned downed by Manipur police commandos in an alleged fake encounter at Imphal Bazaar on July 23, 2009, even as the bereaved family members are demanding a speedy probe into it to punish the guilty cops.

Sanjit, a former rebel, was gunned down inside a pharmacy on Bir Tikendrajit Road, while pregnant Rabina was hit while she was moving along with her son. Six civilians were also injured in the shootout that triggered a prolonged civil movement against "state terrorism". Justice (retired) P G Agarwal, who conducted a judicial inquiry into the incident, submitted his report to the state government on May 17 this year while another case taken up by the CBI on the same incident is still pending.

Incidentally, families of the deceased persons and several local pressure groups stayed away from the inquiry saying that they had no faith in such probe.

Amid tears, mourners, including members of the bereaved families, key leaders of the Apunba Lup and civil bodies paid floral tributes to Sanjit and Rabina at a ground here where a meeting was also held.

Earlier in the day, the mourners had abortively attempted to hold the mourning ceremony at the high security Gandhi Memorial Hall and Manipur Press Club in the heart of Imphal. On security reasons and non-possession of meeting permissions from the authorities, police prevented them from organizing the functions at these two venues. "Two years have gone and my son's killers are yet to be punished. This is not fair. We want the CBI to speed up the case and punish the killer commandos, who snatched my son's soul," a broken Taratombi, mother of Sanjit, told TOI.

Her husband Chungkham Khelen, who was running a motor workshop at Maram bazzar in Senapati district, has now come to his residence at Khurai area in Imphal area only to groom their remaining three sons. "Before his death, Sanjit had somehow managed to help our family's economic burden by working as a painter but now we are having a hard time to groom my three sons - Vishal, Momocha and Monish," she said.

Seven police commandos, including a sub-inspector, had been suspended in connection with the shootout. The public outcry against the incident compounded after a national magazine carried out the story along with telltale pictures of Sanjit being surrounded by heavily armed police before he was shot inside the pharmacy. During the five-month-long stir period, education system collapsed in the valley areas as three powerful students' organizations boycotted classes on the plea that right to life was more important than right to education.

60-hour Pallel bandh stifles border trade from Myanmar

2011-07-24T00:12:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 23 (NNN): At least two vehicles were viciously attacked and damaged allegedly by bandh supporters along the Imphal-Moreh stretch of National Highway 39 today. A 60-hour chakka bandh has been imposed beginning 6 am today by several organizations from Pallel led by Youth Volunteers Association in protest against state government transport department move to prohibit renewal of contract permit to passenger Tata Wingers plying between Imphal and Pallel.
At about 8:30 am today, suspected bandh supporters viciously attacked and damaged a passenger auto rickshaw bearing registration no MN 04 B 7219 and a private Maruti (A-Star) bearing registration no MN 01 W 9903.
The 60-hour chakka bandh has been imposed in protest against the state government’s noncooperation on the demand of ten different organizations from Pallel area, including Kuki Students’ Organization, Pallel, Maring Students’ Union, Pallel, Winger Drivers’ Association, Pallel Bazar Board, and village chiefs of Pallel etc.
Pallel is located between the capital of Manipur and the trading border town of Moreh, approximately 50 km from Imphal. It is an important transit point for businesses.
The bandh severely constraint vehicular movements on the Imphal-Moreh stretch of National Highway 39, bringing business along the international border to a complete halt as businessmen could not travel along the highway.

Manipur Chief Minister distributes items worth Rs 1 cr to schools

2011-07-23T00:51:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Jul 23 : Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh today distributed educational items worth about Rs one crore to 57 schools at a function held at Lamphelpat here.

All the schools were under DNA (DBT's Natural Resource Awareness) Clubs category. The objective of the club is to inculcate a sense of appreciation for bio-resources of the country, their uses and management into students.

Mr Singh said, ''We should include more schools in the DNA Club category. The activities under the DNA clubs are proposed to be a unique mix that includes interactions with eminent personalities associated with Bio-resources and Bio-technology.

Manipur rivers in spate, large areas flooded

2011-07-23T00:50:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Jul 23 : Heavy rainfall during the last few days has flooded large parts of the state and most rivers are flowing near danger mark.

Large numbers of houses were inundated at Uripok, Lamphel, Sagolband. Government offices, BRTF, CRPF, police stations, Indian Council of Agricultural Research office, schools at Lamphel had been flooded.

Large tracts of agricultural lands at Imphal West, Thoubal, Imphal East, Bishenpur districts were submerged.

Irrigation and Flood Control Department (IFCD) officials said the rivers were flowing at high levels. Those living beside Nambul river had been badly affected.

The water level of river Imphal was above 785.8 mtr, river Lilong was flowing at 780.350 mtr, river Iril was flowing at 784.725 m, river Thoubal at 778.915 mtr.

Though the exact numbers of people displaced was not available, it was estimated that over a thousand people had been affected at Thoubal district.

Ministers, local MLAs and officials visited the flood affected areas today and inspected the conditions.

There was apprehension that the embankments may collapse.

Condition may further aggravate as more rainfall was expected.

Manipur student falls to death

2011-07-23T00:25:00.001-07:00

HYDERABAD: A day after a PhD student from Karnataka was found dead in the BITS, Pilani campus in the city, a student from Manipur reportedly fell to death from the second floor of a hostel in the Agriculture College of the Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University at Rajendranagar late on Thursday night.

The youngster from Manipur was part of a group of students who came to the city on an education tour.

A third year BSc student of the Central Agricultural University in Manipur, the deceased, Lallungh Nena Chaku Chhuak (23), hailed from Imphal.

According to Rajendranagar police sub-inspector Ramesh, Chaku along with 40 other students was on an all-India education tour.

They came to the city on July 19 for a four-day tour and had been staying in the guest house of the university. They were supposed to leave for Coimbatore on Saturday.

Police said the students visited various agriculturalrelated institutes, including the Directorate of Rice Research (DRR), NAARM and ICRISAT on Thursday and returned to the university late in the night.

“Four students, including Chaku went to the second floor of the Farmer’s Hostel to have a party late in the night. Chaku sat on the railing and was chatting with his friends when he lost his balance and fell down to the ground,” police said.

The Farmer’s Hostel is used to accommodate farmers visiting the campus on study tours.

Bandh against Tamil leader's arrest cripples Moreh town

2011-07-22T01:08:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Life was paralyzed at Moreh in Manipur's Chandel district bordering Myanmar on Thursday, which happened to be the last day of a 48-hour bandh called in protest against the recent arrest of V Sekhar, a leader of Tamil community hailing from the town.

The strike, which began at 6 am of Wednesday, was called jointly by the Border Trade and Chamber of Commerce (BTCC) and Tamil Sangam. Incidentally, Sekhar (42) is the president of the two organizations.

On July 14, Shekhar was arrested at Chennai airport by Madhya Pradesh Police in connection with the alleged murder of his business associate Rajesh Dagar. He has also been charged with drugs (cocaine) smuggling. Rubbishing the charges leveled against Sekhar, the two bodies demanded immediate and unconditional release of the leader. Sources said Sekhar is currently being quizzed at the national capital.

"Sekhar is innocent and has nothing to do with any criminal activities as thought by police. He has been extending all possible support to promote the ongoing trade and commerce between the two countries. We want his unconditional release," a protester said on Thursday.

Because of the bandh, commercial activities between the two neighboring countries were stopped and vehicles were off the roads. Moreh, the focal point of the country's ambitious Look East Policy, transacts around Rs 5 crore in commercial activities.

Though the market at Namphalong town in Myanmar close to Moreh remained open, only a few shoppers were seen there. Responding to the call of the BTCC, a large number of Moreh residents demonstrated against Sekhar's arrest.

Meanwhile, the two groups, in a joint statement, expressed their gratitude to members of all social organizations for extending their support to the bandh.

Govt can’t alter reservation rules in all-India services: SC

2011-07-21T00:54:00.001-07:00

Reservation rules for general and reserved candidates in all-India services like IAS and IPS cannot be altered by the government as it may violate the Constitution, Supreme Court has said.

A Bench of Justices R V Raveendran and A K Patnaik said the roster system for general, SC, ST and OBC candidates should be adhered to and reservation in excess of the prescribed quota limit is illegal and unconstitutional.

“The roster system ensures equitable treatment to both general and reserved candidates and hence cannot be bypassed on some ground or the other which may result in unfair treatment to either general candidates or reserved candidates in violation of their right to equality under Articles 14 and 16(1) of the Constitution,” Justice Patnaik observed.

The apex court passed the ruling while dealing with the petition of G Srinivas Rao, an IPS officer and a general candidate, challenging the Centre’s decision to allot him the Manipur-Tripura Joint Cadre on October 27, 1999, instead of his home cadre Andhra Pradesh.

Manipur CM inaugurates NSA hostels

2011-07-21T00:45:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 20: Manipur chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh inaugurated four buildings of the National Sports Academy at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal today.

The buildings comprise hostels for boys and girls, a sports hostel and indoor stadium.

Constructed by the Manipur Development Society, the boys’ and girls’ hostels cost Rs 474.28 lakh each, with a capacity of 150 beds each.

The sports hostel, constructed with funds from the 12th Finance Commission, cost Rs 433.76 lakh with 150 beds and the indoor hall costs Rs 412.86 lakh.

Chief minister O. Ibobi Singh said the National Sports Academy was an acknowledgement to the spirit and sporting talent of the state.

He added that the total cost of the project was around Rs 18.45 crore.

The chief minister added that the annual intake of the academy is 60 students, of which 50 per cent are reserved for state students and the remaining for outstation students. At present, there are 159 students at the academy, of whom 58 are girls.

The disciplines at the academy are archery, boxing, judo, taekwondo, weightlifting and wrestling.

Youth affairs and sports minister D.D. Thaisii, along with irrigation and flood control minister N. Biren Singh, Speaker I. Hemochandra Singh and other MLAs attended the inaugural function.

Referee promoted: Ex-Elite national referee L. Yaima Singh was promoted as state referee instructor by the All Manipur Football Association according to the assessment of the four-day referee instructor course.

L. Ibohal Meitei, M. Nilo Meitei and K. Brojen Singh have also been elevated to district referee instructors.

NEDFI to monitor and evaluate government projects in Manipur

2011-07-20T06:26:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 20 (PTI) The North Eastern DevelopmentFinancial Corporation (NEDFI) will monitor and evaluate theprogress of nine projects being implemented in Manipur withfinancial assistance from the Centre and other institutions,official sources said today. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed betweenspecial secretary (planning) Sajad Hasan on behalf of theManipur government and NEDFI representatives on July 16. The Manipur government also issued an order on Mondayasking the concerned heads of departments to cooperate withofficials from NEDFI while inspecting, monitoring orevaluating the progress of work of the projects beingimplemented in the state, sources said. Out of the total of Rs 46.71 crores sanctioned by theCentre (special plan assistance, non-lapsable central pool ofresources) and north eastern council, Rs 45.91 crores have sofar been released, sources said adding that monitoring andre-evaluation of these projects became necessary to find outwhether the work done so far matched with the amount releaseso far. Also, the quality of work would be checked, they said. The nine projects included construction of bridge atLamlong on Imphal river, construction of infrastructure ofTamenglong Higher Secondary School in Tamenglong district,installation of a power sub-station at Moreh border town inChandel district, Keibung Yengkhom bridge on Thoubal river inThoubal district, construction of some inter-village roads ininterior districts etc, sources added.

Over 400 villagers receive treatment at Assam Rifles camp

2011-07-20T00:43:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: At least 400 villagers from the remote areas in Manipur's Chandel district received medical aid during a camp organized by Assam Rifles' doctors.

Areas in distant corners of Manipur have been deprived of basic amenities, including medical care. With the onset of monsoons, outbreak of various diseases like malaria is common, an Assam Rifles statement said.

Personnel of the 29 Assam Rifles have been instrumental in providing medical support to the local populace in remote areas, the statement said, adding that taking a stride forward in this direction, the unit organized a medical camp at Kwatha village with a view to cover all villages near the international border.

"The medical officers of the unit and nursing assistants provided medical care to the people. Around 400 villagers, including children, from Kwatha, Kwatha Khunou, Satang, Molphei and Saikul village were treated at the camp and medicines like cholroquine was also distributed," it said.

In the meantime, personnel from the same unit apprehended two underground cadres in a counter-insurgency operation launched in the Chamol area in the same district on Tuesday. The rebels have been handed over to police.

On the other hand, 27 sector Assam Rifles, under the aegis of the Army's Red Shield Division, inaugurated a vocational training centre at Hiangtam Khunou in Churachandpur district, a defence statement said.

Four sewing machines were handed over to the village authorities, the statement said and added that an instructor has also been provided by the sector for teaching basics of stitching and sewing to women.

Nine arrested with contraband substances

2011-07-18T22:11:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Jul 19 : Six drug users and peddlers were arrested along with contraband substances from different areas during past 24 hours in this district.

Six persons, including a jawan of Manipur Rifles, allegedly found using and selling drugs were held at Imphal East by the locals.

They were handed over to Imphal East police station.

They were also ostracized from their respective localities.

Meanwhile, three persons were held with banned wildlife products and drugs yesterday.

Troops of 31 Assam Rifles and Manipur Police personnel launched a joint operation at Khudengthabi, Chandel district and intercepted three individuals sitting along with banned wildlife products and drugs from two vehicles.

They were moving from Imphal to Moreh.

Around 2.5kgs of Pangolin Shells, 3461 Spasmo Capsules were recovered from them.

The arrested criminals were handed over to Wildlife Department, Imphal and Narcotic Control Bureau Imphal respectively.

Imphal land row hots up

2011-07-18T00:52:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 18 : The dispute over a residential area in the heart of this town has reached the flash point with the Manipur government trying to acquire it for a state-owned five-star hotel and the 35 residents resisting the move tooth and nail.

The government has now instituted a vigilance commission inquiry to look into the land allotment status of the residents after all other efforts met with strong resistance.

The Ibobi Singh government plans to construct a five-star hotel in the area, Kabo Leikai, after evacuating the residents. The hotel will then be leased out to the private sector.

On July 11, revenue commissioner S. Sunderlal issued an memorandum declaring detection of “serious irregularities/illegalities” in the land allotments, made in 2006 by the land revenue and settlement department. He also served showcause notices on the 35 landowners asking them to answer as to why the “unauthorised” allotments should not be cancelled.

The vigilance commission has also asked the landowners for their original land pattas as part of the inquiry.

“All these are attempts to browbeat the landowners and acquire the land forcibly. We will not succumb to such an undemocratic approach of the government,” the chairman of the area, also known as Naga River Colony, K. Golmei, said.

The government has not keyed down its efforts despite the fact that the matter is now sub judice.

The residents had filed a petition against the government in the Imphal bench of Gauhati High Court, which fixed August 11 as the next date for hearing of the case. The court had also directed the state government to produce the original land allotment records on or before the next hearing.

Responding to the vigilance commission’s directive, 11 landowners wrote to the commission to wait till disposal of the court case.

A joint action committee formed by the landowners is now consulting legal experts on how to respond to the revenue commissioner’s showcase notice.

“We will not submit our original land records to the government as it may destroy them to acquire our land forcibly. We will submit them to the court,” Gomei said.

The issue has also been brought to the notice of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, after John Dayal, a member of the National Integration Council, submitted a report of a fact-finding mission headed by him on the Kabo Leikai issue.

Sonia, in her letter to Dayal, assured him that she would request the Ibobi Singh government to look into the grievances of the landowners.

A team, comprising rights activists from different parts of India, also visited Imphal last month to examine the land acquisition process and objected to the manner in which the Ibobi Singh government was going about it.
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Sonia assures Naga River colony locals

2011-07-18T00:31:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, while acknowledging the growing public fury against the state government's decision to set up a five-star hotel at Naga River Colony here after evicting people of the area, has pledged to request the authorities concerned to look into the matter.

The hotel is to be upgraded from the existing state-run Hotel Imphal located close to the colony also known as Kabo Leikai that houses around thirty families belonging to different ethnic communities.

Claiming that they have been living there since ages, the ill-fated residents said the government's plan to set up the luxurious hotel after evicting their houses, worship places and graveyards was an attempt to break the age-old tradition of peaceful co-existence among different communities in harmony and disrespect to religion. They have been opposing the order since last month.A local pressure group and the colony residents said they are happy to learn that Sonia Gandhi has assured to look into the matter for the well-being of the inhabitants. The group, in a statement released on Saturday, said Sonia's assurance was given to John Dayal, a member of National Integration Council, New Delhi.

The pressure group's statement said the villagers are apprehensive that they may be evicted soon if the process of land acquisition was not halted halted. Chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh has recently said his government was considering to provide resettlement to those Naga colony residents whose houses would be evicted for setting up the proposed 5-sta0r hotel.

Rishang lashes out at Naga crusaders

2011-07-18T00:30:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 18 : Rajya Sabha MP Rishang Keishing has lambasted the recent quit notice serve by Naga Crusaders to Meiteis as sheer nonsense aimed at upsetting the integrity of Manipur.

He further advised the so-called Naga crusaders to stop scheming for straining the cordial relationship between the hill people and plain people who have been living in harmony since ages.

Former Chief Minister Rishang Keishing was speaking as chief guest at the closing ceremony of Tal Phangnaba organised by Samurou Sangeet Natya Vidyalaya at Naorem Chaprou Panthoibi Shanglen (community hall) today.

He also condemned the quit notice served to Meiteis by Naga Crusaders.

It would be in the best interest of all concerned to stop conspiring for devastation of the whole State as if there is conflict between the hill people and plain people who have been living together for centuries, he stated.

It would be best appreciated if the Naga and Kuki armed groups as well as those operating in the valley concentrate on seeking ways and means to strengthen mutual love and cordiality among different communities.

Conflict and confrontation are manifestation of shunning development and progress, he asserted.

If one has to name the oldest and biggest political party in the country, it is obviously Congress, the seasoned politician claimed.

He went on to claim that the same party has been safeguarding the integrity of both India and Manipur.

Being a big party, there may be tainted individuals/politicians within the party.

Such tainted individuals should be expelled from the party and strengthen the party.

Those serving the people should understand that development and prosperity of the society would secure their own welfare, he asserted.

Calling upon the people not to be swayed by money at the time of elections, he exhorted the public to vote for candidates who are committed to welfare of the State and the people.

He also appealed to support MPCC vice-president Sagolsem Achouba.

Observing that Manipur is known across the world for its rich art and culture and sporting excellence, Rishang Keishing he would consult with Sagolsem Achouba for development of Samurou Sangeet Natak Vidyalaya and establishment of a college for the Vidyalaya.

MPCC vice-president and president of the Vidyalaya Sagolsem Achouba said that he would put in his best efforts to establish a college for the Vidyalaya.

Four smugglers arrested with red sandalwood of 15.95 tons

2011-07-16T09:46:00.001-07:00

Siliguri, Jul 16 : Four notorious sandalwood smugglers of an international gang were arrested with contraband goods worth nearly Rs two crore while transporting it to China, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence sources today said.

The DRI said the four, identified as Rahul Jaiswal of Delhi, Md Mahmoud, Md Kurban and Md Quorban, were arrested while transporting about 15.95 tons of red sandalwood in two trucks from Bijlimari tea garden area near here last night.

The DRI said the contraband goods were imported from Andhra Pradesh via Delhi on way to Manipur for final dispatch to neighbouring China.

The DRI believes the sandalwood smugglers have made a hub in Delhi for storage before shipment of contrabands to the foreign countries and use Siliguri as corridor.

All four were today sent to a local court for police remand.

The DRI said all four were members of a notorious smuggling gang, which operates in India and abroad.

Hill teachers object to Manipur government's decision

2011-07-16T09:33:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: A teachers association in Manipur on Saturday objected to state government's decision bringing elementary schools in hill districts under autonomous district councils and threatened to call a strike if it was not withdrawn.

"The government decision was to degrade the status of education in the state and the hill teachers would not accept the government's policy," the All Manipur Hill Teachers' Association said in a statement today.

It said strikes would be launched soon if the decision was not withdrawn.

At present all elementary schools in hill districts are under the Directorate (Schools) Education. According to the recent government decision, elementary schools would be under the chairman who would be an elected ADC member, official sources said.

The bank accounts of schools would also be operated by the chairman and headmaster or headmistress jointly, the sources said.

There are at present six ADCs in hill districts. The elections to autonomous district councils were held late last year after gap of about 20 years.

Some hill-based organisations had earlier opposed the elections to the ADCs and demanded the hill districts be kept under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Left parties kick soff anti-corruption campaign in Manipur

2011-07-15T22:12:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: The state units of several Left parties have launched a week-long democratic movement against corruption and other social ills in Manipur. The stir will be carried out in a phased manner at all district headquarters of the state.

On Friday, activists of the CPI, CPI (M), Forward Bloc and RSP kicked off the first phase of the movement at Aribam Mandhop in the Singjamei area of Imphal. During the campaign, the parties will call for adoption of an effective Lokpal Bill legislation, a national judicial commission to curb corruption in the judiciary and action against corruption by big businessmen in connivance with politicians.

L Thoiren Singh, the assistant secretary of Manipur state council of CPI , said the campaign will seek implementation of electoral reforms, checking use of money in elections, unearthing of black money and bringing back illegal money stashed abroad.

The state of CPI, which is a coalition partner of the Congress-led Secular Progressive Front (SPF) government in the state, has four legislators in the 60-member assembly. Senior communist leader Ph Parijat holds a cabinet berth in the front.

On the other hand, the state unit BJP on Thursday organized a leaders' meet at its Imphal office to strengthen the party in view of the coming assembly elections likely to be held in February next year. Various national leaders of the saffron party took part in it.

Manipur schemes need to be strengthened: Wasnik

2011-07-15T22:11:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Having reviewed various schemes that are currently being implemented by his ministry in Manipur, Union social justice and empowerment minister Mukul Wasnik emphasized the need to intensify them. Wasnik, who along with some central government officials, arrived here on Friday morning for a two-day visit to the state, said he has identified certain weak areas in the implementation of the schemes.

On the sidelines of a meeting with PCC leaders at Congress Bhavan in the heart of Imphal, the Union minister told reporters that steps should be taken to address the loopholes.

Straight after landing at Imphal airport in the morning around 11.30, Wasnik held a review meeting with concerned officials, including those from the state social welfare department, at a hotel here. The meeting dwelt at length with the schemes, relating to differently-abled persons, senior citizens and drug abuse in the state. Before wrapping up his visit, the minister will hold a meeting with NGO leaders who are working under the schemes of the ministry.

Wasnik learnt there is a lack of coordination between the social welfare department and the agencies implementing such schemes. Lack of capacity-building measures like holding awareness programmes at the grassroots level to strengthen the schemes was also pointed out in the meeting.

The Union minister's visit came in the wake of a threat from the All Tribal Disables' Union, Manipur (Atdum) to launch a stir if the state government fails to comply with its various demands, including issuance of disability certificates.

Atdum alleged the state government and the medical board have failed to address the plight of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in obtaining disability certificates. A large number of disabled persons living in remote areas cannot obtain disability certificates as they are required to visit Imphal to get them, which is difficult for them, Atdum said.

Since they do not possess disability certificates, they do not get benefits like jobs, financial assistance, unemployment allowance and scholarships. Also, the 3% job positions reserved for PWDs in government departments are already occupied and there is a need for more jobs for them.

Recently, the first state-level games for PWDs was held at Khuman Lampak, with over 270 athletes competing in various events - athletes, aquatics, football, boochi, softball and badminton.

Manipur youth want a militancy free education zone

2011-07-15T05:44:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 15 (ANI): Living under the shadow of guns, blasts, extortion, and violence is difficult and studying in such an environment even more so. No surprise then that students in Manipur want education to be a militancy free zone.

This is because militants have been threatening these institutions and causing problems in their functioning.

Grenade attacks on educational institutions are common and teachers often receive threatening notes. Blasts, blockades, shutdowns and strikes have ensured that schools remain closed for days.

"The situation here affects our studies. We are supposed to complete our syllabus within one year but we are unable to do so because of boycotts, strikes, and shutdowns. We cannot study in peace," said Shaya Devi, a studentSeveral teachers' associations, student bodies and senior citizens of the state had attended the protest meeting and took out a rally, demanding that education should be freed from disturbances and corruption.

Several resolutions were adopted during the meeting. One of them is a demand for exempting schools and colleges from purview of any shutdown or strike. Militancy is one of the main problems for the students. Militants demand money from their family or kidnap people creating tension for the students. They do not let them study peacefully, so these students want a free education zone," said N Chaoba Singh, President, All Manipur Students' Guardian Organization

"We face many problems so today we are demanding that we should get proper and peaceful education. There are many reasons why we cannot study properly and that may affect our future," said Priyanda, another student.

Solar energy being promoted in Manipur

2011-07-15T04:52:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 15 : In an endeavor to promote the usage of solar energy, the Manipur Renewable Energy Development Agency (MANIREDA) has set a target for providing 10,000 solar water heaters under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Energy Mission.

The agency recently organized a one-day workshop on solar thermal system that laid stress on the need to use solar and wind energy to meet the power shortage in the region.

MANIREDA aims to set up solar water heaters, lights, cells, biogas plants and windmills in the region in pursuit of this goal. The heaters that have a capacity of 100 litre per day, cost around 25,000 each, 75 per cent of which will be provided by central and state subsidy.

This will help save 75-megawatts of power and prevent carbon emission of 1.5 tonnes in a five-year period.

It also aims to spread awareness among people about the benefits of renewable energy.

"he main objective of the workshop is to make aware of what is solar heater system and advantage and disadvantage of it and how they can use it and get benefit from it," said Waikhol Chandra, Officer, MANIREDA

MANIREDA is the nodal agency for formulating policies and programmes, for popularising the applications of various non-conventional and renewable source of energy in Manipur.

The agency has set up biogas plants, distributed solar cells, lighting systems, wind-solar hybrid energy system in villages of the hill districts of Manipur where electricity has not reached.

Under Manireda, a 200 KW solar power plant was set up recently at Moreh, 165-gram panchayats were electrified and 5736 solar street lighting sets with a capacity of 444 Kilowatts were distributed.

MANIREDA not only helps in setting up the solar plants but also trains villagers in preventive maintenance of these installations.

"Solar panel is much better now and it can be used for home lighting system. Using solar systems is a much better system because it is not polluting the environment. Also as India is advancing it will be using the renewable energy in a big way," said Dilip, a beneficiary.

Manipur hosts fourth pineapple fair

2011-07-15T04:51:00.001-07:00

The fourth edition of the annual state level pineapple fair was recently organized in Manipur.

Organised under the auspices of Andro Kendra, a non-governmental forum with active support from the State Horticulture Department, the main objective of the fair was to provide technical knowledge to local farmers about pineapple plantation and cultivation.

More than 300 metric tonnes of pineapples were put on sale during the fair.

Farmers set up more than 160 stalls to showcase and sell their produce.

It is estimated that each stall sold pineapples worth Rs 10000.

" Pineapple is one of the priority crops in Manipur, so every year we encourage farmers to cultivate this crop in the pineapple growing areas. This will help them uplift their socioeconomic standards and also incomes of the state," said Subendra Singh, one of the organizer.

The fair also provided an opportunity to the farmers to interact with experts.hey discussed many issues like the lack of marketing and cold storage facilities, non-availability of loans to farmers and promotion of pineapple cultivation in the region.

"Before the farmers, they grew about 20 to 25 thousands plants per hectare, but now a days it's about 50 to 60 thousand plants per hectare," said N Ram Singh, Professor, Central Agricultural University.

Manipur stands fourth in pineapple production as the climatic conditions and soil in the state is just right for its cultivation.

Vendor eviction: Gauhati HC notices to Manipur govt

2011-07-14T02:38:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Acting on a petition filed by 44 women street vendors who have been evicted from Khwairamband Bazar in the heart of Imphal, the Gauhati high court on Tuesday issued notices to the Manipur government.

One of the pleas made by the petitioners to the court was to allocate to them the existing empty space available on the first floor of the three new women's market buildings. They also sought the development of the open space at the temporary market located at the erstwhile old district hospital here into a market structure exclusively for street vendors.

The women, while pleading for regulation of street-vending activities in the state as per the recommendation of the National Policy, 2009, also requested that arbitrary dispossession/evacuation of street vendors without a legally-framed rehabilitation scheme be stopped.

After hearing the submissions put up by advocate Meihoubam Rakesh on behalf of the petitioners, Justice T Nandakumar Singh, in his Imphal bench sitting, issued notices to the state government through the commissioner, municipal administration, housing and urban development (Mahud) and the secretary/ executive officer of Imphal Municipal Council (IMC). The court asked these officials to give their replies within four weeks.

The petitioners contended that consequent to the state cabinet decision adopted on April 25 this year, all women vendors were evicted from Khwairamband Bazar and the evicted women were asked to carry out their vending activities at Lamphelpat area here where a large open field has been developed as a market.

Consequently, on April 26, a public meeting organized by street vendors, including the petitioners, decided to approach the Gauhati high court to air their grievances.

The petition said the Prime Minister, in his letter dated August 4, 2009 addressed to all the chief ministers in the country, said the Centre had revised the national policy on urban street vendors that was formulated in 2004. The revised policy aimed at ensuring that urban street vendors are given due recognition at national, state and local levels to pursue economic activity without harassment.

It also said the revised policy underscores the need for a legislative framework to enable street vendors to pursue an honest living, the petition said, while citing a recent Supreme Court verdict that said the fundamental rights of street vendors cannot be regulated without a proper law.

Tobacco products sold openly inside Manipur University campus

2011-07-13T00:16:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, July 12: According to the Prohibition of Sale of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products around Educational Institution Rules, 2004, the sale of tobacco products is strictly prohibited in the area within a radius of 100 yards (approximately 91 meters) of any educational institution. However, tobacco products are sold openly right inside the campus of Manipur University without any intervention from the concerned authority.
These prohibition rules have been framed under section 6 of the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003.
The tobacco products such as cigarettes, pan, khaini, gutka, pan masala etc. are found being sold in some stalls attached to the quarters of lower grade employees of the university. The consumers of such tobacco products are none other than the students of the university. Moreover, these stalls are located near the three boys’ hostels of the university and are frequented by the students as they also sell tea, snacks and other commodities of daily use.
One hosteller of Thangjing Boys’ hostel told IFP that he used to occasionally consume pan and some other tobacco products like khaini and gutka while returning to his hostel, but now he has become addicted to the substances.
He said, “I have to demand extra money from my parents just to meet my daily expense on tobacco products. Normally, I spend about Rs. 50 daily to buy them including cigarettes”.
Just few meters outside the campus of Manipur University, almost all grocery shops sell cigarettes, pan and other tobacco products. There is no restriction in the sale of tobacco products near the university campus even if there is a prohibitory act.
As per the rules, a fine of upto Rs 200 can be imposed for selling tobacco products within a radius of 100 yards of an educational institution. The offence is compoundable which means no case will be registered if the offender pays the fine.
It is also mandatory for the authority of the educational institution to display and exhibit boards outside the premises stating that the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products within the stipulated area is prohibited. These 100 yards should be measured from the outer limit of the boundary walls of the institute.
It may be mentioned here that the Delhi High Court, on March 21, directed the Delhi University to issue directions to its colleges to appoint nodal officers to ensure that no outlet is found selling tobacco products within a the university us of 10 yards of the educational institutions.
It is high time for the authorities of Manipur University to check the sale of tobacco products inside the campus and within 100 yards of its premises. The anti-tobacco campaign should also touch this prestigious central university. Higher education does not mean only the specialized knowledge a student receives in a particular field. The students should also be well aware of the harmfulness of tobacco products and should organize themselves to launch anti-tobacco campaign in their campus itself.

Manorama murder case reaches Supreme Court

2011-07-12T00:48:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Challenging the recent Gauhati high court verdict that allowed the Manipur government to open and act upon the probe report on the facts and circumstances leading to the rape and brutal killing of Thangjam Manorama Devi by Assam Rifles in 2004, the defence authorities have filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the Supreme Court.

On July 11, 2004, the bullet-riddled body of Manorama, then 32, was found at Laipharok Maring village in Imphal East. The previous night, personnel belonging to 17 Assam Rifles picked her up from her residence at Bamon Kampu Mayai Leikai village in the same district after issuing an arrest memo.

In the aftermath of Manorama's brutal rape and murder, Manipur witnessed largescale protests against the incident and a collective demand to scrap the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act.

On Monday, a large number of mourners, including human rights defenders, social activists, leaders of civil bodies and the bereaved family of Manorama Devi paid floral tributes to the human rights activist near her residence on the occasion of her seventh death anniversary.

Civil society leaders, at a meeting convened there, categorically renewed the people's demand to repeal the military act that gives unbridled powers to the armed forces.

In August last year, a division bench of Gauhati high court allowed the state government to open and act upon an inquiry report on the facts and circumstances leading to Manorama's killing. The report, which is still being kept under wraps, was prepared by retired district judge C Upendra Singh.

Since the government respondents failed to comply with the order, Manorama's family filed a writ petition in the high court in January for opening the inquiry report and initiate a fresh probe by the CBI for punishing the guilty Assam Rifles personnel. Though the matter was listed for hearing on Monday, it had to be deferred as the central government (Union defence and home affairs secretaries) and commandant of 17 Assam Rifles have already filed the SLP challenging the division bench ruling.

"I was all prepared to contest the case at Gauhati high court's Imphal bench today. But it had to be placed after disposal of the SLP as told by the court," said advocate Meihoubam Rakesh, appearing on behalf of Manorama's mother and younger brother. Following the central government's SLP, the Supreme Court recently issued notices to the respondents, he added.

Rakesh, who is also the director of Manipur unit of Human Rights Law Network (HRLN), said they would contest the Supreme Court case after consulting with their key functionaries in New Delhi. He added that the matter has also been conveyed to Manorama's family.

Facebook to attract voters

2011-07-12T00:47:00.001-07:00

Manipur election office goes social networking

Imphal, July 12 : Manipur chief electoral officer P.C. Lawmkunga today opened an official Facebook account to reach out to young voters and encourage them to participate in electoral process.

The account, under the name CEO Manipur will be used as an interactive forum for young voters.

Lawmkunga updated his status message immediately after he first logged in.

“Our goal is to attract maximum number of voters to the polling booths. In the 2007 Assembly elections, the poll percentage was 83. In the February bypolls in Konthoujam Assembly constituency (in Imphal West district) the poll percentage was nearly 90,” he said.

He said Manipur has 1,619,000 voters and the networking site was used to encourage all the registered voters to participate in the electoral process in the next Assembly election.

He said voters using this networking site can lodge their complaint on Facebook and the department would attend to the complaints promptly.

Officials at the state election office said the educated youths were unconcerned about the democratic exercise.

Apart from the Facebook account, call centres will also be opened at all the nine districts where voters can make toll free calls to register their grievances.

“We are in the process of procuring computer systems. These call centres are to address public grievances,” he said.

Another initiative taken by the electoral officer is to get mapping of all the 20,195 polling stations across the state with the help of Manipur Remote Sensing Centre. So far mapping of booths in 19 of the 60 Assembly constituencies have been completed.

The electoral officer also plans to hold seminars and workshops for voters from all walks of life. Moreover, panel discussions will be aired on local AIR station, DDK Imphal and ISTV, a private TV channel, in August and September.

Manipur zoo to reopen for tourists soon

2011-07-12T00:46:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: The Manipur zoological garden, which was closed for visitors after it was flooded by incessant rains six days ago, is set to reopen after the water has been receding at a fast pace.

The only state's zoo located in the Iroisemba area in Imphal West would be thrown open to people as soon as the flood water recedes completely, a senior officer of the Manipur forest department said on Monday.

The catchment area of the zoo's entrance route, part of visitors' road, lawns, deer enclosures and others places inside the zoo were flooded completely due to continuous rain for the past few days.

To ensure the safety of around 400 animals, including 31 species of mammals, 3 reptile species, 20 birds variety and eleven brow antlered deer, locally known as Sangai, housed inside the zoo, the authorities had to keep the zoo shut since July 6.

"We have witnessed quick receding of flood water in the last few days and water is expected to recede completely in a day or two," the officer said.

Before opening the zoo to people, a social service and cleanliness campaign would be conducted by the zoo staff, he said adding that not a single animal has been found infected with water-borne disease.

On being questioned about the housing of emus, he said the birds would be kept in the zoo just for a few days now as construction of enclosures for the big birds has been completed.

Locusts invade Manipur paddy fields

2011-07-12T00:45:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, July 12 – Even as the people of Manipur are trying to grapple with the problem of shortage of food grains in the market, locust invasion and subsequent havoc on paddy fields in the recent past have made the situation grim.

The villagers of a remote Ukhrul village have been running from pillar to post to get the necessary help after their paddy fields have been attacked by swarms of locusts in the recent past. The standing crops of the village have been destroyed last month by the locusts. The Ramson Khuthak village is about 70 km south-east of here.

N Ramhenrhing, headman of Khunthak village said that after the paddy has been sown and started to sprout, swarms of locusts attacked the plants leaving the fields barren since the last few weeks.

The livelihood of these villagers numbering around 250 are at risk as they solely depend on the annual agriculture products.

Each household in the village used to harvest around 200 to 250 tins of paddy from their fields in a year. But the recent damage in their fields has put the villagers in misery.

This is not the first time that the swarms of locusts have attacked the State’s paddy fields. Earlier, the pests have damaged the paddy fields of Tamenglong and Thoubal districts as well at the time of harvest.

The State Agriculture department, is however, yet to study the situation and find out whether the invading locusts are of destructive type or not.

Laotian team seeks business opportunities in Assam

2011-07-11T06:01:00.001-07:00

Guwahati, July 11 : India's Look East Policy, is attracting teams from South East Asia to explore trade opportunities.

Recently, a Laotian delegation visited Assam and identified tourism, agriculture and hospitality as key sectors for investments.

Laotian Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Nam Viyeketh said: "We are looking for business opportunities in the Northeast through the Lao PDR. There is a lot of scope for business activities in Assam, which we can explore. Water resources, mine, agriculture, tourism, etc. sectors in Assam have attracted the attention of the Lao delegates."

He said Lao PDR would work towards promotion of better business relations between India and other Asian countries.

Sanjiv Narayan, President of the Assam Chamber of Commerce said: "They have shown keen interest in the fields of agriculture, hospitality and tourism. They are keen to invest in these sectors. Our businessman saw the opportunities available in their country and I am sure that they would like to go and invest there."

"Now as the militancy is decreasing in the northeast, people have started looking towards northeast and are showing keen interest in it," he added.rade with Southeast Asian countries will make the Northeast a trading hub, improve the investment climate in the region and create a large number of job opportunities. hrough its Look East Policy, India has committed itself to integrating with Southeast Asian nations.

Manipur book fair promotes better reading habits among youth

2011-07-11T06:00:00.003-07:00

Imphal, July 11 : With the aim of promoting better reading habits among youth in the state, a five-day book fair was recently held in Manipur.

Organised by the Job Centre Manipur, in association with a private publication, the book fair provided students and other people a perfect opportunity to pick up books of their choice

The stalls at the fair had books on varied subjects in an effort to attract people of different age groups.

Over 15000 such books ranging between Rs 2000-Rs 5000 were on display.

“The students are getting detailed information here and get to know the exam pattern also. We have introduced new books for the students so the student can get to know about more opportunities and will help them to get job and clear the competitive exam,” said Rajat Choudhary, one of the organiser.

The huge participation of people clearly reflects people’s interest and fondness for books.

“First of all it really encourages me in my studies. We get all the books here so for a student it is very good,” Rabindchandra, a student

“ It is very good because here we get most of the books and I can choose what I want. So it’s very helpful,” added Purnishila, another student.

Cane, bamboo products, a source of income for many in Manipur

2011-07-11T06:00:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 11 (ANI): A large number of people in Manipur are engaged in the manufactured cane and bamboo items to earn their livelihood from it.

These artisans are working under the aegis of The People's Action for Rural Development Organization (PARDO) that has set up the Rungchan cane and bamboo crafts cluster.

Many people from Maring Tribe are also engaged in this business in Tusihimi Village in Chandel District.

"We get a salary every month; so it is very helpful I can pay for my children tuition fees as well I can spend money on my other needs. So, it is very good," said K Tabitha Tarao, an artisan .

"I am working here and I get paid. But I request the government to help us and give us some support then I am sure that we will have a better life," said Ch Koshil Tarao, another artisan.

Handmade cane and bamboo products from the Northeast are in great demand across the country. They attract many buyers in fairs and exhibitions.

The finished products are marketed within the state and are also sold at India International Trade Fairs.

"We are trying to give our best support to our Artisans but we need to do more. We request the government to provide us more help especially for the artisans. This will help us pay them well and they can sustain themselves better," said W Charanga, Chairman, PARDO.

India has nearly 145 varieties of bamboo species. Bamboo forests occupy approximately 10.03 million hectares, which constitutes almost 12.8 percent of the total forest area of the country. 28 percent the area is located in the northeast region. (ANI)

Mystery shrouds death of HIV+ woman, NGOs join cause

2011-07-11T00:00:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Hordes of NGOs, including the Manipur Network of Positive People, have asked the state government to order a reinvestigation into the recent death of an HIV-positive woman here.

The body of Rasheshori (33) was found at her Sagang village house in Imphal East district on the night of June 2. It was alleged that she was killed by her trucker husband, M Ibomcha, for keeping her HIV status concealed. On the basis of the allegation, police arrested Ibomcha, a resident of Yainganagpokpi.

However, the incident took a new twist with the locals of Sagang claiming that Rasheshori was killed by her brother, Milan, owing to some disputes over land. Following this, activists of NGOs such as MNP+, Women Action for Development and SAATHI on Saturday staged a demonstration at Singjamei Bazaar in the heart of the city, seeking reinvestigation into Rasheshori's murder. They also claimed that Ibomcha had not murdered his wife. tnnThe NGO leaders also said they were mulling to move court to find out who killed Rasheshori's.

Holding placards with messages like "Don't discriminate HIV+ve women and children," " Reinvestigate the murder of Rasheshori", " Save the life of HIV-affected orphans" and "Ensure the right to health education and shelter to all children infected and affected by HIV/Aids", the NGO activists said the government must take certain measures for the welfare of Ibomcha's two children.

Manipur is among six states in the country which have high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. According to Manipur State AIDS Control Society statistics, Manipur has 38,016 HIV-positive people. Of them, 10,109 are women and 2,578 children.

Government to set up dental hospital in restive Manipur

2011-07-09T21:43:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: The Union health and family welfare ministry has agreed to set up a dental hospital in Manipur.

The state does not have any dental hospital barring the dental departments in the Centre-run Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) and the newly-established Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (Jnims).

Manipur heath minister L Jayantakumar Singh and health commissioner Moses Challai approached officials of the ministry for setting up a dental hospital during a meeting at Nirmal Bhavan in New Delhi on Wednesday, said a statement issued by Manipur Information Centre in the national capital. The ministry officials asked to submit a concept paper for the project, the statement said, adding that Jayantakumar assured them of sending it after discussing the matter with state officials.

Jayantakumar also met the secretary-cum-director general of National AIDS Control Organization (Naco)Sayan Chatterjee and had a discussion on the alarming spread of HIV/Aids in Manipur's Moreh town in Chandel district.

During the meeting, they discussed about illegal flesh trade and blood transfusion in the border areas which are major factors responsible for spread of the epidemic snd decided to take up appropriate measures on the matter, added the statement.

Manipur Chief Electoral Officer on Facebook

2011-07-09T21:25:00.001-07:00

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manipur is opening an official account on Facebook
- Date : July 11, 2011 -

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manipur is opening an official account on face Book in furtherance of its endeavor towards,'Systematic Voters' education and electorial participation at 11:30 am on July 11 Monday in the office chamber of the CEO Manipur at Old Secretariat Imphal.

CEO set to woo young voters
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 02 2011: With a view to ensure participation of young voters in greater numbers, and also to educate them about electoral politics, the Chief Electoral Officer Manipur is all set to use internet social networking platform of Facebook ahead of the next Assembly elections scheduled in the early part of 2012 . An official source informed that the CEO would open an account in Facebook next week with the primary objective of connecting with young voters.

Detailed information about the Assembly elections would be up-loaded in Facebook which is a popular website among both youngsters and older people. Young voters would also be allowed to post their comments, experiences and opinions about elections in the same website.

The new initiative of using the popular platform of Facebook is to ensure maximum participation of young voters in the Manipur Legislative Assembly elections, and also to educate them about the electoral politics and elections. Against the present figure of 93 per cent, the Election Commission is targeting hundred per cent completion of the photo electoral roll compilation work ahead of the Assembly elections.

With regard to the proposed opening of an account in Facebook, the CEO presided a meeting on 'Systematic voters education and electoral participation on June 29', conveyed the official source.

Auto rally against drug abuse held in Manipur

2011-07-07T02:54:00.000-07:00

Imphal, July 7 (ANI): To spread awareness about the gangers of consuming drugs, an auto rally was recently held in Manipur as a part of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The rally was organized by the social welfare department in collaboration with FINGODAP-Manipur Chapter, AMADA, CADA and Usher Manipur under the theme "Think Health, Not Drugs".

After the rally ended, a public meeting was held where speakers shared their views on how to prevent youth from taking to drugs.

"To compare to other state most of the youth in Manipur use a drug so, but in other state old age people use drug so it is very serious and important to take step from now onward," said Jogesh Maibam

Meanwhile, in Sikkim, activists organised a cycle rally to educate people, especially the youth.

"Drugs are the killer disease for the society and we all are united here to fight for drugs and drug abuse. The message that goes to the youth is to take up positive activities and concentrate on positive side of life," said Satish Bardewa.

Hundreds of NCC cadres from various schools and colleges of Jorhat District also took out a rally in and around Jorhat town under the theme "Say No To Drugs, Yes To Life".

The rally concluded with a meeting of eminent doctors that laid stress on the harmful effects of tobacco.

"Our aim is to end drug abuse. We want to protect the future generations of the country from drug abuse and its ill effects," said Prabhakar, Colonel, Indian Army.

Nagaland too extended its support in the fight against the drugs. People from all walks of life participated in a public meeting and pledged to contribute their bit. (ANI)

Manipur hosts handloom and handicraft buyer-seller meet

2011-07-07T02:53:00.001-07:00

Imphal, July 7: Keen to facilitate the promotion of exports of indigenous handloom and handicraft items produced in Manipur, a buyer seller meet was recently held in the state.

The meet was organized under the aegis of the Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers and Handicraft Artisans' Cooperative Society in association with Ministry of Textiles and State's Department of Commerce and Industries.

Fifteen high profile handloom traders and exporters from different parts of the country along with representatives of the state and the central governments took part in the event.

The authorities provided all possible support to the artisans to facilitate the sale of handloom and handicraft products outside the state.

"It is a very good idea to bring buyers from outside to Manipur because when artisans and weavers can now find out what else they can sell in the rest of the country and also get exported. So, it is very good thing," said N Choubey, Development Commissioner, Handicrafts, Government of India

Visitors also appreciated the work of the local artisans and urged them to improve quality as their products have a huge export market.

"In Imphal, I saw a number of good products that were on display. I hope they can improve them further in the future," said Ramesh a buyer.

The highlight was a fashion show where young boys and girls walked down the ramp showcasing hand woven apparels.

Young designers of the Blue Ocean Academy designed the clothes.

"In Manipur, we have good handloom products. In order to export them outside the state, we need good designers and a good platform to display them," said H Ranita Devi, designer at the Blue Ocean Academy.

Martyrs' complex now dumping ground

2011-07-07T02:26:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Kekrupat, where 18 martyrs who laid their lives for the cause of safeguarding Manipur's territorial integrity were cremated, has become a no-man's land despite deployment of four Manipur home guard personnel, lamented the United Committee Manipur (UCM) on Wednesday.

At present, the place is used for washing clothes and dumping waste, said the UCM which developed the site.

During the people's uprising against the extension of the Centre-NSCN (IM) ceasefire beyond territorial limits in June 2001, the 18 protesters were killed in police firing.

Offices of all political parties, assembly building and residences of ministers and legislators, including the chief minister's bungalow, were also burnt by people during the protest. In its aftermath, the UCM was formed by various social bodies.

To remember their sacrifice, the UCM has been organizing "The Great June Uprising" at Kekrupat since 2002. The committee, in a statement, said it has been trying its best to develop Kekrupat into a sacred site for veneration. After the state government took over the area, which falls under Kanga, the Kangla Fort Board deployed four home guard personnel to guard it.

Sadly, the personnel haven't performed their duties properly, said the UCM statement, adding that Kekrupat has now become a dumping ground for people living in the vicinity.

"For how long one should remain mum on seeing dumping of garbage, washing of clothes and other such activities inside the sacred Kekrupat complex?" questioned the UCM.

Stating that a UCM team on Tuesday morning saw some people fishing in a pond in the Kekrupat complex, the UCM said such activities should be stopped immediately.

The chief minister, who is also the chairman of the Kangla Fort Board, and also holds the home portfolio, should initiate necessary disciplinary action against the four home guards men, demanded the UCM.

"They should be transferred and replaced by a fresh group of personnel to guard the sacred venue," said the statement issued by the UCM.

Moreh residents protest against poor BSNL network

2011-07-06T00:11:00.000-07:00

IMPHAL: Charging the BSNL with frequent network failure for quite a long time at Manipur's Moreh town bordering Myanmar, irate consumers living there burnt down the gadgets provided by the service provider at their homes on Monday.

The subscribers, along with members of Meitie Council Moreh (MCM), a local civil body, brought their SIM cards, telephone bills, landline phone receivers and wireless modems for surrendering them at the office of Moreh telephone exchange as a token of protest.

Since no responsible officials were seen at that time, the disgruntled subscribers piled up their articles and set them ablaze at Moreh market, said one of the consumers. The protesters also raised slogans like "go back BSNL" and "go back Cell One".

Earlier, various community-based organizations at the border town like Tamil Sangam Moreh, Chambers of Commerce and Hill Tribal Council Moreh had asked the BSNL staff at Moreh to leave the place for not providing good network there.

Nambul waters flood Imphal

2011-06-30T11:37:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL: Large swathes of low- lying areas in the state capital have been flooded as the Nambul River is overflowing following heavy downpour over the last few days.

The water level of many rivers is on the rise, forcing the government and locals to maintain vigil round the clock.

Water from the Nambul has flooded various fish farms, dwelling houses and educational institutions in both the districts.

Floodwaters have also thrown life out of gear at several low-lying areas in Uripok and Lamphel areas in the heart of Imphal.

The gradual rise of water level of Thoubal, Iril , Imphal and Iril rivers have also created panic among the people living in the low-lying areas.

About 200 hectares of paddy field in Chajing Loukon in Imphal West have been flooded after an embakment of the Chandranadi rivulet caved in on Tuesday.

Manipur irrigation and flood control officials, who are running a control room for the last few days, however, said the water level of several rivers receded slowly on Wednesday.

"With all the required machinery and manpower, we are ready to fight floods anytime," said the officials who are maintaining vigil at their Imphal control room.

As a preventive measure, the flood control department has already opened two of the five sluice gates of Ithai Barrage in Bishnupur district and that instructions have also been given for opening the remaining gates if required.

Unlike the last few days Wednesday witnessed lesser degree of rainfall in the valley areas.

Manipur withdraws 5 pc VAT on kerosene

2011-06-28T11:28:00.000-07:00

Sobhapati Samom

IMPHAL, June 29 – In a move to reduce the impact of the latest hike in prices of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) and diesel on the common man, the Congress-led Secular Progressive Front Government in Manipur has announced to waive off the five per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on Kerosene (SK Oil).

“We will impose zero tax on SK oil in the public interest”, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said on Tuesday. “On LPG, we will take a minimum tax.”

A Cabinet meeting on Monday also decided to exempt the VAT which is five per cent above the cost of kerosene per litre in the interest of the below poverty line (BPL) families.

The government will impose a minimum tax on LPG, Ibobi hinted while replying to a question on price hike. “We will try to lower it further after comparing the neighbouring States such as Assam and Nagaland”, he added.

Ibobi was addressing the media along with visiting permanent member of Congress Working Committee Luizinho Falerio, who is in charge of Manipur at the Congress Bhavan here in presence of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Gaikhangam and other senior leaders here.

Falerio was here to attend the MPCC sponsored political conference held under the theme ‘Congress view on present situation’ at Mapal Kangjeibung on Monday. He said the Right to Food Security Act will be introduced in the country soon in view of the food shortage across the world.

On the recent hike in prices of fuel and LPG, the former Goa Chief Minister said “It’s the impact of global phenomenon.”

Terming that Manipur has been marching ahead with the country in the developmental sector, the former Chief Minister responding to a question on the June 30 tripartite talk in Senapati, said that peace is the pre-requisite for development. “There might be differences even among family members”, he said. “Many issues can be resolved amicably. There must be a crusade to promote peace in the area”.

The Central Government, after announcing the hike in diesel, kerosene and LPG prices on Friday, had asked State Governments to reduce State-level taxes to lower the prices of these commodities. Without delay, West Bengal and Haryana had already reduced prices of some petroleum products since the hike.

Kerala, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Delhi also decreased the prices after reducing VAT and other levies followed by Maharashtra and Meghalaya.

Award for drug-free Mantak

2011-06-28T01:32:00.000-07:00

IMPHAL: Mantak, a small tribal hamlet in Manipur's Chandel district that was once famous for producing high-quality country liquor and notorious for its people's addiction to the brew, has now become the first model drug-free village in the state, thanks to increased awareness about the harmful effects of alcoholism.

The village, also known as Kakching Mantak, has around 1,000 'clean' residents belonging to the minority Kom community who have shunned alcohol. Leave alone alcohol, you will not even find any tobacco products like gutkha or cigarettes being sold at any of the pan-shops or roadside kiosks in this village.

In recognition of the villagers' efforts to eradicate alcoholism and tobacco, the All Manipur Anti-Drug Association (Amada), a leading NGO in Manipur, honoured Mantak with its fifth annual excellence award 'Athouba' (The Marvel). The award was conferred on the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on Sunday and was given away to the village authority by Amada president M Padamini Leima at a simple function held in Mantak community hall. The 'Athouba' award carries a cash prize of Rs 5000 besides a certificate and a memento.

Amada secretary K Meghachadra Meetei asked all to emulate the Mantak villagers efforts at curbing alcoholism.

S Rameshwar Kom, a villager, said, "Thanks to the strict and committed anti-alcohol and anti-intoxicant campaign launched by our village authority in June 1992, the villagers have given up drinking and brewing country liquor."

Before the village authority took the decision to make Mantak a drug and alcohol-free village, liquor addicts from different parts of Chandel and the neighbouring Thoubal district used to come to the village to drown their sorrows in the intoxicated world here. However, Mantak has been alcohol free for the last two decades. Many alcoholics in the village have overcome their addictions and recovered from alcohol-related diseases as well.

Hidden agenda tag on Govt's 5 Star dream

2011-06-28T00:12:00.001-07:00

Imphal, June 28 : At a time when the residents of Naga River Colony are raising a strong and vocal protest against the Government's decision to set up a 5-Star hotel at the locality, a fact finding team of National level civil society organisations has expressed apprehension that the State Government may have a 'hidden agenda' in acquiring land at the locality.

Apart from analysing the facts, the team visited Naga River Colony and interacted with the residents this morning.

The team comprised of National Integration Council Member Dr John Dayal, North East Support Centre and Helpline Spokesperson Madhu Chandra, Manipur State Minorities Commission Member N Debendra and All Manipur Christian Organisation President Rev Prem Vaiphei.

The team later hosted a press conference at Manipur Press Club in the presence of Naga River Colony residents, social workers and civil society leaders.

Speaking to the media, Dr John Dayal said, "It is quite clear from the narratives of the events that the Government has been in undue haste in the entire process of acquiring land.

The Government issued land acquisition notifications even before assessment of the hotel's needs were available.

It gives credence to the apprehensions of the villagers that there are malafide intents in the Government's move and the entire exercise may be just for the benefit of some unknwon rich and politically powerful persons" .

He said that the State Government formed a Committee under the Chairmanship of the Chief Secretary to assess the value of assets and frame the principle on which the assets and management of Hotel Imphal are to be leased out to private party on PPP model on June 4 this year.

However, the Government started land acquisition process way back on May 20, 2011 by issuing the notifications.

After analysing the facts and listening to the residents, the fact finding team made six recommendations to the State Government to break the deadlock.

Maintaining that there does not seem to be any need to acquire Naga River Colony land to set up a luxury hotel, the team recommended that Imphal Hotel be upgraded on the existing land.

There is sufficient land for the hotel and nearby Government properties to suit even a huge luxury hotel, the team said adding that many luxury hotels are being run across the globe in the land less than the one Hotel Imphal currently owns.

The team also recommneded to have face-to-face discussions by the Chief Minister to respond to the apprehensions of the residents.

It added that PPP models must not be for the benefit of a few but affected people must be given an opportunity to be a part of the PPP with guarantee of profit sharing, employment and other benefits.

The team also recommended to lift Section 144 of CrPC being imposed at the locality so that livelihood, security community life are not disrupted.

The team will submit its findings and recommendations to Governor Gurbachan Jagat, Chief Minister O Ibobi, National Minorities Commission Chairperson, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes Chairperson etc.

Ibobi opposes ‘alternate arrangement’ for Nagas

2011-06-26T23:05:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, June 27 – Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh on Saturday said that his government will not accept the ‘Alternative Arrangement’ for Naga areas in the State and asserted that the question did not arise on the issue for the State Government had made its stand clear to the public.

He said the government has already expressed its decision on the issue and the government still holds firm on its decision.

Addressing a press conference here on Saturday, Ibobi said “In a democracy, demands can be lodged either with the Centre or the State”.

A Cabinet meeting of the ruling Secular Progressive Front Government here recently decided to send State Chief Secretary- led team of officials to attend the forthcoming tripartite talks between the representatives of UNC, State and Central officials to be held at Senapati, on June 30 next.

The Chief Minister replying to questions further informed that the State Government has asked for the agenda of the meeting.

UNC, a Naga civil society organisation in Manipur has been demanding an ‘alternative arrangement’ for the Nagas living in Manipur after their Senapati meeting last year saying that Nagas will sever all political ties with the Government of Manipur.

Ibobi govt pulls out of Naga meet

2011-06-25T22:02:00.000-07:00

Imphal, June 26 : Manipur chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh today said the state government was not prepared to accept the demand of an alternative administrative arrangement for Nagas living in Manipur as sought by some Naga organisations.

Ibobi Singh’s categorical rejection of the demand came six days ahead of the scheduled meeting of officials of the state government, Union home ministry and representatives of the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Committee for Alternate Arrangement, a Naga body at Senapati district headquarters.

The home ministry convened the third round of meeting on the demand at Senapati on June 30. The date was fixed after Naga organisations, led by the UNC, served an ultimatum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to convene the meeting by June 30 or face a backout by the Naga bodies in future talks on the issue.

Earlier, the third round of talks was scheduled for May 30.

However, it was indefinitely postponed following a request from the Ibobi Singh government in the wake of Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio’s visit on May 28 to open the Manipur unit of the Nagaland political party, Naga People’s Front, at a function in Senapati.

“We have a firm stand on the issue. We made it very clear to the Union home ministry that the state government would not accept the demand for an alternative administrative arrangement for the Nagas of Manipur,” Ibobi Singh told the media in his office here this afternoon.

He said India being a democratic country, anyone or any group could make any demand. “However, as far as the Manipur government is concerned, there is no reason to accept the UNC demand,” the chief minister said.

Despite opposition from the United Committee Manipur (UCM) in taking part in the upcoming talks by the Manipur government, Ibobi Singh is sending an official team, headed by chief secretary D.S. Poonia, to the Senapati talks.

The UNC, in a memorandum earlier this week, urged the chief minister not to take part in the proposed talks.

The UNC and other Naga bodies raised the demand for an alternative administrative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur after the government prevented NSCN (I-M) leader Th. Muivah from entering Manipur and the death of two students during police crackdown on Muivah’s supporters at Mao Gate last year.

The first round of talks was held in Delhi in September and the second round was organised at Senapati in December last year.

Current Electricity Blues In Manipur

2011-06-23T02:14:00.001-07:00

By: Khelsoril Wanbe
The importance and role of electricity in this power-driven age is something that doesn’t need any more explanation, elaboration or analysis. What we often hear from people who have just had the privilege of visiting our neighboring states is that “power is very regular in this or that state.” In Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura etc power supply is said to be much better than Manipur. Here in Manipur too we can claim that power comes and goes at punctual hours: load shedding is very regular and predictable unless interrupted by some transformer or electric post or cyclone problems. If power fails to arrive at the expected hour, we can say, with some measure of confidence that there must be some disturbances in the power transmission lines. Every day we enjoy at least four hours of power supply during day time and five to seven hours at night. We are still expecting the power condition to deteriorate further. So the question arises as to whether we are enjoying exactly what we deserve or are we being made to suffer like mute species. It’s indeed a very sad electricity situation that we are experiencing here in Manipur, India. India is a highly rapidly developing country that is expected to be the richest country in the near future, which may not be true. But, it is at least true that India is a fast developing country. People who have visited other states of India know it very well that despite extreme climatic conditions in those states, electricity condition is far better than what we are enjoying here in MANIPUR. Could this power scarcity here be because of the fact that we do not need much electricity here because our climate is comparatively not so extreme? My point is that here in Manipur, we can somehow survive the summer heat without ceiling or table fans, which will not be possible in cities like Delhi, Kolkota, Chennai, Bengalore, Mumbai and so on. Another reason why we don’t bother much about the irregularity of electric(ity) may be because of the easy availability of generators and invertors. I really wonder whether the few hours of daily electricity supply is sufficient to carry on with our daily business. Payment of electric bills too is now a very complicated problem for for how many years most of us have not paid power taxes. The problem is faced not only by the bill payers but also by the power tax collectors or the government electricity department. The government seems to be encountering a gargantuan problem in connection with power tax collection due to the piling up of mountain high electric bills that have been defaulted by both the public and the government departments. Regarding the power bills owed by the Manipur government departments, it’s still unclear how much remains unpaid. Instead of staging some kind of power show on the public power tariff defaulters, I think, it would be much better to think seriously of a lasting solution. Perhaps, grinding of heads together is what all the concerned parties (the government, the people, civil bodies etc) need to do. How long; how long are we going to suffer from this power crisis? If I’m not mistaken, I think I heard with my own ears, a few years ago, that our power crisis would be over by 2012. 2012 is projected as a danger year by a movie of the same title. Our worry then is whether we are going to meet the doomsday without ever fully tasting the fruits of human civilization. We are now, of course, in possession of all the electronic gadgets, devices and appliances that the modern civilization affords, but without proper supply of electricity what is the meaning of owning a TV, fridge, computer, fan, AC, electric cooker, washing machine, Xerox machine, printing machine and so on and so 4th. In previous years we used to enjoy a more regular supply during rainy seasons, but now that good time has failed to return. Power poverty in this post- nuclear age may be something unbelievable for people living in developed and developing places of the world. Power failure is something very rarely experienced in metropolitan cities like Chennai, Bengalore, Guwahati etc forget about Delhi and Mumbai. A once in a blue moon blackout may be tolerated with little complaint, but having to experience it on a regular basis does not fail to give us the feeling that we are still living in the past centuries. I feel, it’s high time now for the government to try to bring a solution to this problem. Some kind of long term plan needs to be formulated without wasting many more precious months and years. We the public too need to understand the need to pay bills regularly and timely. Power inequality too is something to be properly taken into consideration and done away with. The aristocrats, kings and queens too need to experience the pleasure of having to endure hot, dark summer nights without electricity. They too need to feel the electricity blues that the hoi polloi are singing in their humble homes! The climate of Manipur too is changing for the worse and thus the need of using electric fans too increasing. Don’t get me wrong; this is just one example. Electricity, nowadays, is no longer a luxury but a real necessity for one and all, rich and poor, young and old. But electricity should not be made available in exchange of something more valuable or dearer human survival. Proper power management, of course, is something that should be given proper thought by one and all. The big question now is how electricity/power supply is reportedly very regular in other states, and how/ why that is not the case here in this godforsaken corner of the world. This is something to be seriously pondered upon by the government and the people before being left far behind.

Manipur government officials to discuss Naga problems with United Naga Council

2011-06-22T20:15:00.001-07:00

Imphal, Jun 23 : The Manipur government has decided to depute an official team led by Chief Secretary DS Poonia to discuss problems faced by Naga on June 30.

The talks will be held at Senapati district with members of United Naga Council (UNC).

Secular Progressive Front (SPF) spokesperson N Biren said a team of Union Home Ministry will also came to attend the meeting.

The talks were supposed to be held on May 30 however, it was postponed.

The state government had asked the UHM to postpone talks with the UNC on the grounds that UNC had refused to accept the invitation extended by the government.

Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh had stated earlier that making alternative arrangements for Naga was not possible because it could not declare the Autonomous District Council (ADC) as null and void.

Elections were already held and members elected from the area, he added.

Iron Lady sent to judicial custody again

2011-06-22T19:40:00.003-07:00

IMPHAL, June 23 – The Manipur Government has yet again remanded Irom Sharmila Chanu in custody for 15 days soon after she had come out of jail.

After producing her before the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Imphal East Ronald Keishing on Tuesday noon, Sharmila was further sent to judicial custody. She will be produced before the court on July 5 next for further hearing.

The Iron Lady of Manipur was released on March 10 last. But she had been serving a sentence of one year for “attempt to commit suicide” under section 309 of the Indian Penal Code. She was arrested on March 11 last soon after President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, who was here on a two-day visit to the State, left for Delhi.

Manipur land owners mull legal route

2011-06-22T19:40:00.001-07:00

Okram Ibobi Singh

Imphal, June 23 : Owners of the land where the Manipur government is planning to build a luxury hotel is likely to move court to stall acquisition.
The government’s plan is to develop the existing ground floor plus first floor Hotel Imphal at Kabo Leikai to a star hotel by either leasing it out to a private party for construction or on a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
The government has not decided on the private party, but sources said a local businessman was on the chief minister’s mind for the lease or partnership.
For starters, the government constituted a five-member committee, headed by chief secretary D. S. Poonia, to assess the value of the assets of Hotel Imphal and staff strength for the purpose of leasing it out.
However, the officials at the hotel said they were not informed of the exact plan of the government.
The committee — comprising senior officials from the finance, revenue, public works and tourism departments as members — is also assigned to frame “the principle” on which the assets and management of the hotel is to be leased out to a private party or parties or on the PPP model and make the recommendations that would benefit both the parties.
Manipur has only one three-star hotel — Classic Hotel.
As the committee is working on the assignment, the government has already initiated steps to acquire the entire 1.5-acre residential area of Naga River Colony, next to the hotel.
The colony, with 30 houses on government record but 50 houses according to residents, has a population of 500.
After the first attempt by the government officials to assess properties of the notified area of the colony on June 6 failed following strong resistance from the land owners, the government carried it out on June 20 by deploying about 100 armed and unarmed police personnel.
The residents are opposed to the move because they feel that land of the poor is being acquired by the government for handing over to rich businessmen for a luxury hotel.
“Life is more important than a luxury hotel. We are not against development activities of the government. But taking away land owned by the poor for handing over to rich people for commercial purposes is anti-people and unacceptable,” a resident said.
Sources said the landowners are consulting legal experts to challenge the government move in court.
Last week, a church body, the All Manipur Christian Organisation, also opposed the government’s move to acquire land where three churches and a temple exist.

DoNER approves projects worth Rs.12.96 Crores in the Education Sector of Manipur

2011-06-22T10:34:00.000-07:00

Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Govt of India -

New Delhi, 22 June, 2011

The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region has approved projects worth Rs.12.96 Crores in the Education Sector of Manipur. The costs of the projects would be met from the Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) fund administered by the Ministry.

In the 96th Meeting of the NLCPR Committee held in New Delhi recently, Rs.12.96 Crores was recommended for sanction of Construction of 30 Nos.of Model Primary School Buildings for the 6 Autonomous District Councils of Churachandpur, Ukhrul, Sadar Hills, Tamenglong, Senapati and Chandel.

This is a part of the Phase I of the Construction of 300 Nos of Modern Primary Schools under the Autonomous District Councils of Manipur to be undertaken by Ministry of DoNER in the light of the directions of Supreme Court to improve education infrastructure in the Autonomous Councils of the State. The components for construction of Infrastructure in each School would include Buildings, Rain Water Harvesting, Fencing etc.

The matter had also come up for discussion during the meeting chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister at New Delhi on 4th June, 2011 with the Chief Minister of Manipur and other senior Union Ministers.

Earlier this month in the 94th Meeting of the NLCPR Committee, Rs.9.72 Crores was recommended for sanction of Infrastructure Development of 9 Government Colleges in the valley/hills in Manipur and Rs. 12.3 Crores for Construction of 7 Tribal Markets in the state.

Minister of DoNER Shri. B.K Handique said that steps were being taken to hasten the process of sanction to facilitate the early execution of projects under NLCPR.

Delhi legislative assembly PAC in state to share ideas with its Manipur counterpart

2011-06-21T23:44:00.001-07:00

IMPHAL, June 21: A six member team of the Public Account Committee, Delhi Legislative Assembly led by it chairman Veersing Dhingan, MLA Delhi Legislative Assembly has arrived in the state capital this afternoon to share the views and ideas on the functioning of the Public Account Committee of both Legislative Assemblies.

According to an official source the team from the Delhi Legislative Assembly soon after their arrival in the state capital at around 2.15 pm this afternoon attended a courtesy call on the speaker Manipur Legislative Assembly at the Manipur Legislative Assembly Secretariat.

According to the same source, the official interaction with the visiting team’s state counterpart was convened this afternoon at around 3 pm at the office chamber of the speaker Manipur Legislative Assembly which was attended by the members of the state committee which included opposition leader Radhabinod Koijam chairman, PAC along with six members of the committee including O Joy Singh, W. Brajabidhu Singh, Dr. Kh Ratan Kumar Singh, Dr Ng Bijoy Singh, Dr. I Ibohalbi and MLA M Prithviraj Singh.

The members of the PAC Delhi Legislative Assembly team visiting the state have been identified as Sahib Sing Chawhan MLA, Joy Bhagawan, MLA, Shyamlal Garb MLA, Azizuddin under secretary Delhi Assembly secretariat, and senior accountant officer of the Delhi Legislative Assembly.

The official source further mentioned that, the visiting team will be accorded with state reception at the 1st MR Officer Club this evening where the visiting team will be entertained with cultural programs and a dinner.

The team will leave Imphal tomorrow afternoon after visiting important local spots in the morning tomorrow, the source added.

Ibobi minister opposes hotel plan

2011-06-20T19:19:00.001-07:00

Security personnel guard the protest site in Imphal on Monday.

Imphal, June 21 : The sharp differences between chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh and industries minister Yumkham Erabot Singh came out into the open today after the latter joined hands with residents of Naga River Colony, who were resisting a government move to acquire their land.
Ibobi Singh had initiated steps for developing the existing state-owned Hotel Imphal to a five-star hotel after evicting the residents from the 1.5-acre colony located adjacent to the hotel, but the residents opposed the move.
The chief minister today sent an official team from public works and settlement departments to the colony at 8.30am along with about 100 armed and unarmed police personnel to assess the properties in the colony, which has about 500 residents belonging to various communities. Police presence was necessitated by the fact that on July 6, the residents had thwarted an attempt by the same team to carry out the assessment.
But the officials and the police team could not act immediately because they found Erabot Singh among the residents blocking the entrance to the colony.
As the standoff continued, senior police officials from both Imphal East and Imphal West rushed to supervise the “clean up” operation and also to seek a go ahead from the chief minister.
After a nearly three-hour standoff, Ibobi Singh ordered the police to use force to evict the protesters, including the minister.
The protesters finally dispersed after a police officer warned them that force would be used unless they dispersed immediately and went home. The assessment work was also carried out for the 30 houses on official record without any disturbance.
Erabot did not react to the threat and remained calmly seated on a chair. “This (use of force) is not good,” he said.
It is common knowledge that the relationship between Erabot Singh and Ibobi Singh is not exactly cordial. But with Erabot siding with the residents of the colony, also known as Kabo Leikai, the differences have been brought out into the open.
“The government should protect the rights of land ownership of citizens and religious institutions. The existing land for Hotel Imphal is more than enough for a five-star hotel. The move is anti-people,” Erabot Singh said. The colony falls within the minister’s constituency.
The All Manipur Christian Organisation, an apex body of church bodies in Manipur, had also opposed the move as the colony has three churches and a temple.
“The government used force. We were helpless, though we want to stop eviction of the poor residents, churches and a temple for construction of a five-star hotel,” chairman of the village authority K. Golmei said.
The vice-chairman of the village authority, Z.V. Wungshim, said the move was dictatorial and would entail serious repercussions.

Two Bangladeshis held in Manipur

2011-06-20T03:29:00.001-07:00

Imphal, June 20 (PTI) Two Bangladeshi nationals who were arrested from Manipur's border district of Chandel for travelling without valid documents, official sources said today.Assam Rifles personnel of 29th Battalion nabbed Md Hussain and Md Ismail of Cox Bazar in Dhaka yesterday from Tengnoupal area.The two were handed over to Tengnoupal police station, about 100 km southeast of Imphal, sources said.Investigations are on whether they have been smugglers or businessmen, officials said.Chandel district borders Myanmar where narcotic drugs and precious forest products are smuggled into Manipur for various Indian cities and abroad.

Manipur integrity campaign vows to oppose divisive agenda

2011-06-19T00:53:00.001-07:00

Imphal | June 18 : The 10th June Uprising Day and the 10th Unity Day were observed today in a solemn note and poignant reminiscent of June 18, 2001, one at the Great Uprising Memorial Complex at Kekrupat in Imphal and the other at THAU Ground, also in Imphal. The former was organised by the United Committee, Manipur (UCM) and the latter by the All Manipur United Club Organisation (AMUCO) with thousands of people paying befitting floral tribute to the "18 martyrs."
On June 18, 2001 eighteen protestors were killed in the security force firing when the people rose up against the Bangkok declaration of June 14 where ceasefire without territorial limit was extended between the government of India and the NSCN-IM.
On Saturday at Kekrupat, speaking as a presidium member, ex-president of UCM K Lanngamba said that June 18 has been observed because the NSCN-IM and the government of India failed to include the aspiration of the people of Manipur in the ongoing Indo-Naga peace process.
The peace talks between NSCN-IM and the government of India should be concluded at the earliest possible time. If it is allowed to continue without generating any concrete outcome, a June 18, 2001 like incident cannot be ruled out in the foreseeable future, he said, adding if a situation comes to a sorry pass the government of India should be prepared to take complete responsibility.
He went on to say that the NSCN-IM has been collecting taxes, engaging in kidnapping and killing for ransom, all under the shadow of peace talks, the ex-president of UCM said.
"We don’t believe in suspension of operation (SoO) and such like", Lanngamba went on to say, and added that that the ongoing suspension of operation signed by Kuki outfits has not yielded any tangible result.
“It is as though SoO has given a license to these (Kuki) underground outfits to do whatever they want with impunity. If such agreement is signed, the both the Central and the state government should meticulously monitor the adherence to or the lack thereof of the ground rules,” he said.
Lanngamba also cast doubt at the recent opening, in the presence of the chief minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio, of the Manipur unit of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) saying that the move is aimed at achieving the NSCN-IM agenda of greater Nagaland.
“We are not opposed to visits by the Nagaland chief minister as he has lots of respect for the people of Manipur”, he said, “But the chief minister (of Nagaland) must guard himself against visits aimed at dividing the territory and people of Manipur.”
He has also appealed to the government of Manipur to pull out from the tripartite talks involving government of India and United Naga Council, besides Manipur government, wherein the Naga body has sought “alternative arrangement” for Nagas of the state outside the jurisdiction of the government of Manipur.
UCM president Yumnamcha Dilip Kumar, speaking at the same event, said that if June Uprising had not happened; Manipur today would have been just a namesake without the embodiment of the hopes and aspirations of the people. The government of India is trying to break Manipur into pieces but UCM will face the might of the India state and successfully defend its territorial integrity, he said.
In order to pander NSCN-IM, the government of India had given permission to its chief Muivah to visit Manipur and consequently two innocent lives were lost, he said and blamed the government of India for instigating one community against the other.
The UCM president also lambasted the state government saying “by staging fake surrendering drama, arresting 2-3 undergrounds or killing them in fake encounters will not bring peace in the state,” he said and offered, “only through political dialogue can peace and solution be found in Manipur.” Rev. Rehang Chothe, president of HERICOUN said that common sentiment of peace and belongingness in Manipur can be fostered when Kuki, Naga and Meitei join hands together for a better and prosperous tomorrow.
In another event at Thau Ground, christened as 10th Unity Day, observing the same incident, L Binoy, president of Senior Citizen for Society, said that even though we speak about unity and integrity the fact remains that we are a divided house with AMUCO and UCM observing the event separately. “If we really want peace and unity, we must first come together under one platform and organize the observance of June 18 together,” he said.
Let the government of India and NSCN-IM have their peace talks, but they will not be allowed, not so much as attempt, to break apart the integrity of Manipur, he added, and appealed to the public and the undergrounds to defend the territorial integrity of Manipur unitedly while also suggesting to the underground outfits to seek solution in peace talks with the government of India.
AMUCO chief KT Rehman said though Unity Day has been observed today the constant effort by some group to break Manipur has not fulfilled the real meaning of observing Unity Day. He however said AMUCO will forever strive to bring unity in the state.

Thousands pay tribute to Jun 18 martyrs

2011-06-18T23:54:00.000-07:00

Imphal, Jun 19 : Thousands of people offered floral tributes at Kekrupat Memorial Complex where 18 martyrs, including a woman, were cremated in 2001.

People braving the inclement weather come in large number to pay tribute to the martyrs.

People representing various communities, religions attired in their traditional dresses were standing in serpentine queue waiting for their turn to pay homage to the heroes.

In June 2001, there was a massive uprising in Manipur after the Central government decided to extend truce with NSCN (IM) beyond Nagaland.

The expansionist policy of NSCN (IM) was protested and in CRPF and police firing 18 persons were killed.

Every year the day is observed in various places of the state.

Manipur bodies slam Centre

2011-06-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

Imphal, June 19 : The United Committee, Manipur and the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation today accused New Delhi of driving wedges in communities of the Northeast.

They also blamed Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio for supporting NSCN (I-M)’s demand for the division of Manipur.

The committee opposed participation by the Manipur government in the talks over the United Naga Council’s (UNC) demand for an alternative administrative arrangement for Nagas living in Manipur.

The two organisations held separate functions in Imphal city today to pay tribute to 18 persons killed in the firing by security personnel to control rampaging protesters who burnt government buildings on June 18, 2001. They were protesting against extension of the NSCN (I-M) ceasefire.

The uprising forced New Delhi to roll back the declaration of extension without any territorial limit.

As speaker after speaker assailed New Delhi for its “divide-and-rule” policy during the programmes here, Naga organisations from four Naga-dominated districts despa-tched identical memoranda to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, urging him to fulfil the demand for alternative arrangement.

Thousands, including Lok Sabha MP Th. Meinya Singh, chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh’s wife and MLA Landhoni Devi, paid floral tributes at the memorial site at Kekrupat in Imphal city.

“The Manipur government should not take part in the meeting, the agenda of which is dividing Manipur. The state government should take a clear stand on the UNC demand,” said committee president Yumnamcha Dilipkumar.

Organisation president K. T. Rahman said opening of the Manipur unit of Naga People’s Front in Senapati recently by Rio and the attempt by NSCN (I-M) leader Th. Muivah to enter Manipur were parts of a design to break up Manipur.

Traders in Moreh allege AR harasses good carriers

2011-06-18T05:28:00.001-07:00

Imphal, June 17 2011: Alleging that 42 Assam Rifles at Bongyang and 29 Assam Rifles at Tengnoupal is giving unwarranted harassment to goods carriers on the Imphal-Moreh route, the Border Trade & Chamber of Commerce, Moreh today in a memorandum, drew the attention of the Chief Minister to their grievances.

The chamber in its memorandum signed by president V Shekhar and general secretary S Surinder Singh Patheja of the Border Trade & Chamber of Commerce, Moreh lamented the lack of attention by the authority to the problems it faces.

Trucks ferrying goods for the local market at Moreh are being stopped at check posts of Assam Rifles along the Imphal-Moreh section of NH 39.Drivers were ordered to offload the goods, packed cases and cartons of goods are forcibly broken for checking, thereby damaging goods.

Sometimes goods are even lost in the process of checking, the traders body alleged citing that recently, on June 3, a goods truck (UP 52S-2933) was detained by 29 AR at Tengnoupal check post and handed over to Tengnoupal police.

The Border Trade & Chamber of Commerce, Moreh approached the commanding officer of the local unit of Assam Rifles stationed at Moreh and apprised him of the problems faced by the traders, but, it seems that our pleas have fallen on deaf ears, the memorandum said.

This issue is affecting trade at Moreh, the memorandum said reminding the great pains being taken by the authorities of both state Commerce and Industries of Department and and Union Ministry of Commerce and Industries New Delhi, and the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to develop and increase the volume of trade through Moreh.

They stated that various meetings of all trading agencies of Manipur and other places have been held at regular intervals in Moreh and Imphal.

The main agenda of these meetings have always been to find and improve ways and means to boost trade at Moreh.

"Moreh is strategically very important for development of trade and the development of Manipur.

The Prime Minister of India in his Look East Policy had clearly stressed the need to develop this aspect," they reminded the CM.

In 1995, the then Minister of Commerce & Industries P Chidambaram had signed an agreement with Myanmar.

Both countries had agreed to trade which each other by land route from Moreh.

This was a historic land mark for the people of Moreh and Manipur.

Relations and trade improved and flourished between the neighbouring countries India and Myanmar Again in 2000, the Ministry of Commerce & Industries of India issued another directive to give more impetus to trade.

A normal trade agreement was signed with Myanmar giving the traders of Moreh more width to deal with the local customers of Myanmar, Tamu to be precise.

The government is at present going to construct an Integrated Check Post at Moreh.

NH 39 and the town roads are being improved.

There are plans to give a new face lift to Moreh town, all this is being done simply because the state government and the Centre is confident that Moreh will very soon become the hub of business and will be one of the biggest revenue earners for the exchequer.

All these efforts will be possible only if safe and uninterrupted passage is given to goods entering Moreh town, the memorandum asserted and added that the business community of Moreh have registered shops.

They are paying all applicable taxes and are law abiding citizens of the state of Manipur.

"We should not be considered as smugglers and treated as such.

The business traders of Moreh must be given the same considerations as is given to traders in other parts of the state and country," the memorandum of the traders at the border town complained, reiterating their appeal to the CM to address to their grievances.

Manipur ‘gun widows’ call for end to violence

2011-06-17T20:58:00.000-07:00

Manipur Women Gun Survivors’ Network founder Binalakshmi Nepram speaks at the programme in Imphal on Friday. Picture by UB Photos
Md Azad Khan of Thoubal was allegedly killed in a fake encounter by government forces in 2009. His widow, Mumtaz, 36, was forced out of her husband’s house by her in-laws. At present she weaves cloth to feed two children.
Edina Devi’s husband Ningthoujam Anand was picked up from Imphal city and allegedly killed in a fake encounter by government forces in Senapati district in 2009. She is also struggling to bring up her two children by running a small shop.
Irom Chitra, a young mother is running from pillar to post to seek justice for her only son Roger, 19, who was allegedly killed by N. Ajay Singh, son of irrigation and flood control minister, N. Biren.
Imphal, June 17: Widows of the ongoing armed conflict in Manipur and relatives of victims calling themselves “gun survivors” gathered at a hotel here to observe the Global Week of Action Against Gun Violence today to chalk out strategies to stop gun violence and for their own survival.
The programme was organised by Manipur Women Gun Survivors’ Network, an NGO, to help gun survivors (widows) in making a living. They shared their pain, suffering and struggle to eke out a living. “Police cannot kill a man without trial. They might think they punished my husband. But what they really did was they punished me, my children, my husband’s relatives and my relatives for no fault of ours,” Edina said. When security forces allegedly killed her husband they had accused him of being a militant.

Mumtaz said, “When they ‘killed’ my husband they also killed me and my children.”
“Over 20,000 people were killed in the five-decade long armed conflict in Manipur, where more than 30 armed groups operate and 40 security battalions are deployed. About 300 women were made widows every year by the conflict,” Binalakshmi Nepram, the general secretary of Control Arms Foundation, India and the founder of Manipur Women Gun Survivors’ Network, said.
Nepram, who studied extensively on proliferation of small arms in South East Asia, said Manipur was flooded with small arms made in India and various foreign countries, including the US and Israel. She said guns from troubled Afghanistan were also routed to Manipur.
It is when Irom Chitra narrated her ordeal after her son Roger was allegedlykilled that all present, mostly women relatives of victims, wailed for their own hard life and “bleak future”.
The struggle for a living is not the only challenge faced by the widows. As Edina said, they were ill-treated by society. The problem is compounded when some of the widows turned to flesh trade to make a living, NGO activists pointed out.
The Imphal Declaration made at the end of the programme called on the Manipur government, the Union government and the international community to check gun violence in Manipur and help gun survivors.
The declaration also called for removal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act.