Imphal : The agitating Joint Administrative Council (JAC) of All Manipur Trade Union Council (AMTUC) and All Manipur Employees Organization (AMGEO) on Saturday demanded a white paper from the chief minister of Manipur regarding the issue of the implementation of 6th Central Pay Commission especially in its reported statement that the state will have to spend about Rs. 2000-4000 crores for the implementation of the pay commission.
The JAC also alleged that this was a false information from the part of the chief minister.
Briefing media persons in this connection at its office at Babupara, Imphal, the general secretary of the JAC, Ch. Chandramani, revealed that the chief minister had misinformed the general public often in his speeches during functions regarding the issue of implementation of the 6th Pay Commission.
Chandramani also pointed out that the chief minister had often commented that to implement the revised pay the state needs around Rs. 2000 to 4000 crores which if implemented it will affect the state developmental plans.
However, contrary to the chief minister’s information Chandramani pointed out that as per the calculation of the JAC the total amount required altogether, including the due from 2006 to 2009 is about Rs 1240.71 crores.
In this regard, he asserted that the chief minister had misinformed the general public which could lead to a misunderstanding between the JAC and the public and demanded a white paper regarding the information provided for transparency.
Ch. Madhumangol, the president of the JAC, also said that the JAC started its agitation from November 2008 however, lamented that no official response had been provided by the government so far and expressed his discontent over the chief minister’s comments.
The president further pointed out that there were separate funds for plans and non-plan and that the chief minister’s comment of affecting the developmental work due to the 6th Pay commission implementation was baseless.
‘Peace can come only through collective efforts’
K. V. Pusa, NPCC, President along with SASU members during the 59th session of Southern Angami Students Union at Viswema.
Viswema : Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), President K. V. Pusa today asserted that peace can come to Nagaland only through collective efforts.
Speaking at the 59th session (Biennial general conference) of Southern Angami Students Union (SASU) here under the theme “Probity of a student’s life,” Pusa said peace is the pre-requisite for progress and it can be achieved only through collective efforts and contributions from all sections of Naga society. Stating that peace has remained elusive to the Naga people for too long, he said, “We all want peace.” Pusa said real peace can be ushered in when all are engaged in quality activities. He particularly urged Naga youths to strive for peace collectively vis-a-vis to bring tranquility and harmony in Naga society.
SASU BIENNIAL GENERAL CONFERENCE 2009Pusa also urged the youths to foster peace and understanding among Nagas to progress together. He also called upon the students to develop constructive disciplines like uprightness, honesty, integrity and trustworthiness.
The three day long conference is being marked by literary competitions, debate & extempore speech, cultural competition, outdoor games of volleyball and tug of war for both men and women.
Devotional service will take place on February 1 from 9:30 AM onwards with Rev. Dr. Neikedozo Paphino, president, Nagaland Christian Revival Church as the speaker. It will be followed by folk song, modern and traditional couple show.
Valedictory session has been scheduled at 4:00 PM with Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) chairperson Vipopal Kintso as guest of honour. The function will be followed by Japfu-vaganza nite and bonfire.
1st Tribal Cultural Exchange Programme held ADC polls soon: CM
Imphal, January 31 : MANIPUR CHIEF Minister Okram Ibobi said his government is taking up necessary steps to hold the autonomous district council election without delay.
Poll process of the district council is on, for this we are seeking people cooperation, Chief Minister said while delivering his speech during the 1st tribal cultural exchange program at the Tribal Research Institute auditorium, Chingmeirong on Friday.
The day long cultural exchange program was organized by All Tribal Students Union Manipur (ATSUM) .
Ibobi also informed the gathering that a positive indication has been forwarded to his govern-ment for the establishment of a university for the hills.
The authority of Indira Gandhi National Tribal University had recently intimated the state government in this regard.
I hope the executive council of the concerned party (IGNTU) would take the necessary decision he said and added that besides his government is seriously considering taking up of several development projects in the hill districts.
Appreciating ATSUM's timely intervention of certain grievances of the students of the hill districts,Ibobi further informed that the state government is also presently developing the adequate infrastructure for the primary education in hills.
Expressing encoura-gement for organizing the first tribal cultural exchange program of state,CM hope that required fund would be earmarked in the annual budget of the Tribal development department for preserving various traditional and cultural activities of the tribal communities.
He also apologized for his untimely presence at the program due to his daughter's marriage ceremony today.
Manipur Tribal Develo-pment and Veterinary minister D D Thasii while speaking on the occasion said all the people of Manipur both valley and hill dwellers should unite in taking up the develop-mental projects in the region.
One shouldn blame another, we should establish unity through our different cultural activities, he opined.
Dr John Pulamte, President of ATSUM while addressing the exchange program said,We also feel that all 32 (plus) tribal communities of manipur deserved to have one special day so as to celebrate their past anf forge a stronger bond of unity and brotherhood for the future adding,We hope such program will make the people forget our minor differences in the past but enjoy and celebrate our rich cultural heritage together.
The student leader taking advantage of the presence of Chief Minister,also urged to take up their unfinished agenda including introduction of Rules for Manipur reservation of vacancies in post and services(ST/SC) amendment Act 2007,extension of service of contract basic teachers for a period of one year,opening of IGNTU regional campus and functioning of autonomous district council.
Lok Sabha MP Mani Charenamei,Hill Areas Committee Chairman Thangminlien Kipgen, Loli Adanee,a prominent poumai politician who contested Lok Sabha poll last time, Samson Ramei, President of United Naga Council, Kho John, advisor of ATSUM and other students leaders of various tribal communities attending the gathering have witnessed a number cultural dances performed by different tribal dance troupes.
Poll process of the district council is on, for this we are seeking people cooperation, Chief Minister said while delivering his speech during the 1st tribal cultural exchange program at the Tribal Research Institute auditorium, Chingmeirong on Friday.
The day long cultural exchange program was organized by All Tribal Students Union Manipur (ATSUM) .
Ibobi also informed the gathering that a positive indication has been forwarded to his govern-ment for the establishment of a university for the hills.
The authority of Indira Gandhi National Tribal University had recently intimated the state government in this regard.
I hope the executive council of the concerned party (IGNTU) would take the necessary decision he said and added that besides his government is seriously considering taking up of several development projects in the hill districts.
Appreciating ATSUM's timely intervention of certain grievances of the students of the hill districts,Ibobi further informed that the state government is also presently developing the adequate infrastructure for the primary education in hills.
Expressing encoura-gement for organizing the first tribal cultural exchange program of state,CM hope that required fund would be earmarked in the annual budget of the Tribal development department for preserving various traditional and cultural activities of the tribal communities.
He also apologized for his untimely presence at the program due to his daughter's marriage ceremony today.
Manipur Tribal Develo-pment and Veterinary minister D D Thasii while speaking on the occasion said all the people of Manipur both valley and hill dwellers should unite in taking up the develop-mental projects in the region.
One shouldn blame another, we should establish unity through our different cultural activities, he opined.
Dr John Pulamte, President of ATSUM while addressing the exchange program said,We also feel that all 32 (plus) tribal communities of manipur deserved to have one special day so as to celebrate their past anf forge a stronger bond of unity and brotherhood for the future adding,We hope such program will make the people forget our minor differences in the past but enjoy and celebrate our rich cultural heritage together.
The student leader taking advantage of the presence of Chief Minister,also urged to take up their unfinished agenda including introduction of Rules for Manipur reservation of vacancies in post and services(ST/SC) amendment Act 2007,extension of service of contract basic teachers for a period of one year,opening of IGNTU regional campus and functioning of autonomous district council.
Lok Sabha MP Mani Charenamei,Hill Areas Committee Chairman Thangminlien Kipgen, Loli Adanee,a prominent poumai politician who contested Lok Sabha poll last time, Samson Ramei, President of United Naga Council, Kho John, advisor of ATSUM and other students leaders of various tribal communities attending the gathering have witnessed a number cultural dances performed by different tribal dance troupes.
Rickshaw driver killed
Imphal, January 31 : A non-local rickshaw driver was killed when a goods laden Tata truck knocked him down along Imphal-Churachandpur Road at Kwakeithel just opposite to Lamjingba Lup under Imphal West Police district at around 9.30 am today.
The Tata truck was coming towards Imphal when the incident took place.
According to police report, the victim has been identified as Sultan Ansari s/o Juman of Jeet Kahia village under Rajepur Police Station, Motihari district, Bihar but staying at a rented house at Nagamapal, Imphal and driving a rickshaw.
He was returning from a place in Kwakeithel when the Tata truck (MN-02/0221) knocked him down.
He was rushed to RIMS Hospital but succumbed.
The Tata truck was coming towards Imphal when the incident took place.
According to police report, the victim has been identified as Sultan Ansari s/o Juman of Jeet Kahia village under Rajepur Police Station, Motihari district, Bihar but staying at a rented house at Nagamapal, Imphal and driving a rickshaw.
He was returning from a place in Kwakeithel when the Tata truck (MN-02/0221) knocked him down.
He was rushed to RIMS Hospital but succumbed.
Evaluation of model exam in full swing
Churachandpur, January 29 : THE EVALUATION of the High School Leaving Certificate Model Examination 2009 organised by the Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) General Head Quarter (Education) in collaboration with the World Vision India, Sadar Hills ADP, under the theme "Come, let us rebuild education" is in full swing now.
The KSO GHQ (Education Cell) is trying its best to keep the date of declaration of the result as announced earlier, General Secretary, KSO, Churachandpur, Seiboy Haokip said.
The date of declaration of the result of the model examination as announced earlier is February 2. The Hueiyen Lanpao found the evaluators deeply engrossed in their works under the supervision of the Examination Controller, Churachandpur Private Centre, Thangpao Haokip today at the office of the KSO, Churachandpur.
It may be recalled that the HSLC Model Examination 2009, organised by the KSO for students appearing in the HSLC Examination 2009 to be conducted by the BSEM, was held from January 10 to 14 .
The purpose of the model examination is to benefit the students by creating an ambience of exam same as that of the BSEM-conducted HSLC final exam so as to make themselves prepared for it, according to a statement issued by Education Secretary, KSO/GHQ.
In another press release issued by the KSO, Chandel district appealed to all heads of the schools and the teachers in Chandel district to promote quality education in sync with the KSO's Education Reformation Policy under the theme "Come, let us rebuild education.".
Jamlen Haokip, Secretary, Education, KSO, Chandel district charted out seven course of action to help achieve the objectives.
The press release informed that starting from academic session 2009-2010, all government schools inclusive of schools under district council, grant-in-aid and EGS/AIE under SSA should start holding regular classes in accordance with the academic calendar issued and published by the departments concerned.
All the outstation schools headmasters and teachers should make it a point to locate themselves as their respective place of posting for the smooth functioning of their institutions in time without further delay and fail.
In the event of failing to do so, appropriate action should be taken up in consultation with the department concerned, Jamlen Haokip's press release informed.
In respect of the EGS/AIE under SSA, the KSO, Chandel, the VEC and village chiefs are notified to strictly follow the guidelines of the programme implementation.
Whoever deals with the SSA under ZEO Chandel should disburse all finances sanction by the state authority to the respective EGS/AIE schools/centre through proper Chandel in time with transparent administration, it warned.
The KSO GHQ (Education Cell) is trying its best to keep the date of declaration of the result as announced earlier, General Secretary, KSO, Churachandpur, Seiboy Haokip said.
The date of declaration of the result of the model examination as announced earlier is February 2. The Hueiyen Lanpao found the evaluators deeply engrossed in their works under the supervision of the Examination Controller, Churachandpur Private Centre, Thangpao Haokip today at the office of the KSO, Churachandpur.
It may be recalled that the HSLC Model Examination 2009, organised by the KSO for students appearing in the HSLC Examination 2009 to be conducted by the BSEM, was held from January 10 to 14 .
The purpose of the model examination is to benefit the students by creating an ambience of exam same as that of the BSEM-conducted HSLC final exam so as to make themselves prepared for it, according to a statement issued by Education Secretary, KSO/GHQ.
In another press release issued by the KSO, Chandel district appealed to all heads of the schools and the teachers in Chandel district to promote quality education in sync with the KSO's Education Reformation Policy under the theme "Come, let us rebuild education.".
Jamlen Haokip, Secretary, Education, KSO, Chandel district charted out seven course of action to help achieve the objectives.
The press release informed that starting from academic session 2009-2010, all government schools inclusive of schools under district council, grant-in-aid and EGS/AIE under SSA should start holding regular classes in accordance with the academic calendar issued and published by the departments concerned.
All the outstation schools headmasters and teachers should make it a point to locate themselves as their respective place of posting for the smooth functioning of their institutions in time without further delay and fail.
In the event of failing to do so, appropriate action should be taken up in consultation with the department concerned, Jamlen Haokip's press release informed.
In respect of the EGS/AIE under SSA, the KSO, Chandel, the VEC and village chiefs are notified to strictly follow the guidelines of the programme implementation.
Whoever deals with the SSA under ZEO Chandel should disburse all finances sanction by the state authority to the respective EGS/AIE schools/centre through proper Chandel in time with transparent administration, it warned.
VISIBLE IMPROVEMENT IN STATE HEALTH SECTOR SCENARIO
The findings of the second Common Review Mission, the biggest independent review exercise of its kind in any flagship programme of the government, has clearly confirmed that the National Rural Health Mission has made a difference everywhere.
Outpatient cases, institutional deliveries, impatient cases, diagnostic services, emergency transport services have all registered an improvement in a majority of the States.
Over 50,000 Nurses and ANMs have been added on contract under the National Rural Health Mission besides nearly 15,000 Specialists, MBBS Doctors and Ayush Doctors. Such large-scale addition of human resources has translated into improved availability of health care services for people in rural areas.
13 States were visited by six member teams as part of the Second Common Review Mission of the National Rural Health Mission in November-December 2008. Public Health experts, NGO representatives, development partners, senior public servants etc. were part of these independent teams that spent ten days in two districts of the selected States. Assam and Mizoram in North Eastern region, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan from among the high focus States, four States namely, Karnataka, Maharahstra, Kerala and Tamil Nadu among the non-high focus States were covered in the current Common Review Mission.
There is a large-scale evidence of poor people coming to government facilities on much larger scale than before. Shortages of human resources, physical infrastructure, equipments etc. is being attempted under the National Rural Health Mission as per the Indian Public Health Standards. The fast expansion of medical and nursing education is required in high focus States for provision of adequate number of health human resources. Similarly, more efforts at building capacities among community leaders in the management of health programmes and in seeking inter-sectoral convergence with other determinants of health like Water, Sanitation, Education, Nutrition etc. is required. National Rural Health Mission has established the institutions and encouraged the activities that bring about communitization of health care with flexible financing and innovations in human resource engagement. The development of the last two years have created hope that India may also be able to achieve the Millennium Development Goals by a faster reduction of mortality and morbidity.
The Mission found that states with better baseline like Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have been in a position to make quicker use of untied funds. The Mission has felt the need for more flexibility in funding along with better management for enabling the areas of infrastructure, human resources and supplies to catch up with the achievements in institutional deliveries. In the field of public-private-partnership, most of the states have NGO and private sector collaboration. A need was felt to deepen such partnerships in the states like Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. NRHM has definitely given a boost to community participation in the health sector. For example, Village Health and Sanitation Committees haven formed in 82 per cent villages in Maharashtra and 92 per cent villages in Chhatisgarh. ASHA remains the flagship of community participation. The Assam Report states “ the ASHA programme has created a groundswell for NRHM in the state, they are the face of NRHM and have a visible and audible presence”.Chhatisgarh, Orissa, Assam Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh have all completed their 4th module of training for ASHAs (total of 15 to 19 days of training. Uttar Prades Bihar and Mizoram lag behind with only 7 days training. Drug kits for ASHAs have been procured and distributed in all states except in UP and Bihar.
National Rural Health Mission has also put in place an elaborate system of decentralized management of health with the involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Rogi Kalyan Samitis and Village Health and Sanitation Committees. These institutions are utilized untied financial resources for improving the health facilities and for involving local communities in the organization of Village Health and Nutrition Days and other outreach services.
Outpatient cases, institutional deliveries, impatient cases, diagnostic services, emergency transport services have all registered an improvement in a majority of the States.
Over 50,000 Nurses and ANMs have been added on contract under the National Rural Health Mission besides nearly 15,000 Specialists, MBBS Doctors and Ayush Doctors. Such large-scale addition of human resources has translated into improved availability of health care services for people in rural areas.
13 States were visited by six member teams as part of the Second Common Review Mission of the National Rural Health Mission in November-December 2008. Public Health experts, NGO representatives, development partners, senior public servants etc. were part of these independent teams that spent ten days in two districts of the selected States. Assam and Mizoram in North Eastern region, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan from among the high focus States, four States namely, Karnataka, Maharahstra, Kerala and Tamil Nadu among the non-high focus States were covered in the current Common Review Mission.
There is a large-scale evidence of poor people coming to government facilities on much larger scale than before. Shortages of human resources, physical infrastructure, equipments etc. is being attempted under the National Rural Health Mission as per the Indian Public Health Standards. The fast expansion of medical and nursing education is required in high focus States for provision of adequate number of health human resources. Similarly, more efforts at building capacities among community leaders in the management of health programmes and in seeking inter-sectoral convergence with other determinants of health like Water, Sanitation, Education, Nutrition etc. is required. National Rural Health Mission has established the institutions and encouraged the activities that bring about communitization of health care with flexible financing and innovations in human resource engagement. The development of the last two years have created hope that India may also be able to achieve the Millennium Development Goals by a faster reduction of mortality and morbidity.
The Mission found that states with better baseline like Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have been in a position to make quicker use of untied funds. The Mission has felt the need for more flexibility in funding along with better management for enabling the areas of infrastructure, human resources and supplies to catch up with the achievements in institutional deliveries. In the field of public-private-partnership, most of the states have NGO and private sector collaboration. A need was felt to deepen such partnerships in the states like Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. NRHM has definitely given a boost to community participation in the health sector. For example, Village Health and Sanitation Committees haven formed in 82 per cent villages in Maharashtra and 92 per cent villages in Chhatisgarh. ASHA remains the flagship of community participation. The Assam Report states “ the ASHA programme has created a groundswell for NRHM in the state, they are the face of NRHM and have a visible and audible presence”.Chhatisgarh, Orissa, Assam Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh have all completed their 4th module of training for ASHAs (total of 15 to 19 days of training. Uttar Prades Bihar and Mizoram lag behind with only 7 days training. Drug kits for ASHAs have been procured and distributed in all states except in UP and Bihar.
National Rural Health Mission has also put in place an elaborate system of decentralized management of health with the involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Rogi Kalyan Samitis and Village Health and Sanitation Committees. These institutions are utilized untied financial resources for improving the health facilities and for involving local communities in the organization of Village Health and Nutrition Days and other outreach services.
Saranamei village: so near yet so far
SARANAMEI, Jan 28 : Saranamei village, or Siimai as the locals know it, is just 14 km away from National Highway 39. According to local legends, it is one of the oldest settlements, if not the oldest, in the great migration of the Nagas after they emerged from the Makhel cave.
But the 14 km which separate it from the nearest highway township Tadubi might as well be the gulf that separates heaven and hell.
This became obvious during a one day cultural exchange function organised by an NGO by the name of ICHAM, under the dynamic leadership of its young president, N Boi Rajendro. In an event which will be remembered not just by the villagers, who turned out in great numbers at the local ground, but also by those who went there to witness the event, cultural troupes from the valley performed for the village and local dancers performed for the visitors. Gifts were also exchanged.
Upto Paomata village there is a single lane all-weather state highway which continues right up Jessami in Ukhrul district. This road is in a dilapidated condition, but even this would seem a luxury compared to the approach road to Saranamei that branches off from it at Paomata. This 5km dirt road, dusty during the dry seasons and un-navigable during the wet season seemed like an eternity to traverse.
It is absolutely depressing and infuriating to see this village is so far yet so near. It is as if it is a spot left unnoticed by the state. It is even more infuriating that Saranamei is just one example of hundreds of others which have fallen in the same blind spot of the state.
Saranamei is not a small insignificant village either. The village has about 1000 households and is home to about 5000 flesh and blood citizens of this state. It is absolutely confounding that the government can remain unconcerned when so many of its citizens are deprived of even the most basic benefits of governance.
The village does not have a primary health sub-centre, it has not known treated pipe water, there are no public transport facilities, although there were some private taxis with Kohima registration seen parking in some corners of the village, there are no government offices or representatives in the village, the village approach road was constructed by the villagers themselves and maintained by them too.
Although it is so atrociously left out by the government, the village remains a picture of integrity in its isolation. It is a village in which the traditional and modernity exist side by side without conflict or friction.
The older generations in this village are still holding on to their traditional religion and world view, although the younger generation have all without exception adopted the Christian faith.
After another generation, the village would be, like most other villages in the hills, fully proselytised.
But the transition is visibly smooth. In fact the ICHAM function was timed to coincide with Rahchi, a traditional festival celebrated in good spirit with an abundance of traditionally brewed rice beer, pou zhou.
But the 14 km which separate it from the nearest highway township Tadubi might as well be the gulf that separates heaven and hell.
This became obvious during a one day cultural exchange function organised by an NGO by the name of ICHAM, under the dynamic leadership of its young president, N Boi Rajendro. In an event which will be remembered not just by the villagers, who turned out in great numbers at the local ground, but also by those who went there to witness the event, cultural troupes from the valley performed for the village and local dancers performed for the visitors. Gifts were also exchanged.
Upto Paomata village there is a single lane all-weather state highway which continues right up Jessami in Ukhrul district. This road is in a dilapidated condition, but even this would seem a luxury compared to the approach road to Saranamei that branches off from it at Paomata. This 5km dirt road, dusty during the dry seasons and un-navigable during the wet season seemed like an eternity to traverse.
It is absolutely depressing and infuriating to see this village is so far yet so near. It is as if it is a spot left unnoticed by the state. It is even more infuriating that Saranamei is just one example of hundreds of others which have fallen in the same blind spot of the state.
Saranamei is not a small insignificant village either. The village has about 1000 households and is home to about 5000 flesh and blood citizens of this state. It is absolutely confounding that the government can remain unconcerned when so many of its citizens are deprived of even the most basic benefits of governance.
The village does not have a primary health sub-centre, it has not known treated pipe water, there are no public transport facilities, although there were some private taxis with Kohima registration seen parking in some corners of the village, there are no government offices or representatives in the village, the village approach road was constructed by the villagers themselves and maintained by them too.
Although it is so atrociously left out by the government, the village remains a picture of integrity in its isolation. It is a village in which the traditional and modernity exist side by side without conflict or friction.
The older generations in this village are still holding on to their traditional religion and world view, although the younger generation have all without exception adopted the Christian faith.
After another generation, the village would be, like most other villages in the hills, fully proselytised.
But the transition is visibly smooth. In fact the ICHAM function was timed to coincide with Rahchi, a traditional festival celebrated in good spirit with an abundance of traditionally brewed rice beer, pou zhou.
Moreh protests against alleged rape and murder
Imphal, January 28 : A mass protest rally participated by around 5000 people belonging to different communities was taken out in Moreh town today against the alleged rape and murder of Lamkhothing Mate on January 22 reports our correspondent.
The protest organised under the aegis of the Kuki Women Union and Human Rights (KWU&HR) was supported by the All Community Development Organisation Moreh (ACODOM), Manipuri Muslim Council Moreh, Nupi Khunai Chaokhat Lamjing Lup Moreh, Kha Nongpok Apunba Nupi Lup Moreh, Moreh Muslim Minority Development Society, Meetei Council Moreh and Tamil Sangam Moreh.
Throughout the course of the rally, the protesters held placards which read as "Hang the rapist", "We condemn murder", "Down with rapist murder" "Women too are human being", "We demand immediate arrest of rapist" etc.
The rally started from Moreh public ground and terminated at the same point after passing through SRYC, Moreh ward no 4, Moreh gate no 2, Nepali Basti, Muslim basti, Chavangphai , Cannan Veng, Moreh Hospital road and NH 39.The Hill Tribal Council president said that the punishment that should be awarded to the murderer will be decided according to Kuki customary law if he comes out and confesses his crime within three days otherwise there is no other option except taking up steps that may prove risky in the future of the murderer.
On the other hand, because of the 48 hours bandh called in Moreh against the murder of Lamkhothing Mate since yesterday, there was no vehicular movement in the border town.
All shop and business establishments remained closed.
The protest organised under the aegis of the Kuki Women Union and Human Rights (KWU&HR) was supported by the All Community Development Organisation Moreh (ACODOM), Manipuri Muslim Council Moreh, Nupi Khunai Chaokhat Lamjing Lup Moreh, Kha Nongpok Apunba Nupi Lup Moreh, Moreh Muslim Minority Development Society, Meetei Council Moreh and Tamil Sangam Moreh.
Throughout the course of the rally, the protesters held placards which read as "Hang the rapist", "We condemn murder", "Down with rapist murder" "Women too are human being", "We demand immediate arrest of rapist" etc.
The rally started from Moreh public ground and terminated at the same point after passing through SRYC, Moreh ward no 4, Moreh gate no 2, Nepali Basti, Muslim basti, Chavangphai , Cannan Veng, Moreh Hospital road and NH 39.The Hill Tribal Council president said that the punishment that should be awarded to the murderer will be decided according to Kuki customary law if he comes out and confesses his crime within three days otherwise there is no other option except taking up steps that may prove risky in the future of the murderer.
On the other hand, because of the 48 hours bandh called in Moreh against the murder of Lamkhothing Mate since yesterday, there was no vehicular movement in the border town.
All shop and business establishments remained closed.
Bandh affects life in Manipur hill districts
Newmai News Network
Imphal, January 28 : The 24-hour full Chakka Bandh called by the All Manipur Newly Appointed Autonomous District Council Teachers' Association, 2006 on Tuesday adversely affected normal lives in the State especially in the hill districts of Ukhrul, Chandel, Senapati and Churachandpur.
Inter-district passenger buses did not ply today.
According to reports received by NNN, bandhs in Chandel, Churachandpur and Senapati districts were most effective with some reported instances of tyres being burnt, road blocks by supporters and even vehicles put on halt.
The teachers' association had called for a 24 hours full Chakka bandh over the alleged failure of the state government in paying their salaries for the last 19 months including their allowances and arrears.
The association also reportedly closed all the six Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) effectively for two days on January 23-24 .
Speaking to NNN, Ngamboi, spokesperson of the ADC of Sadar Hills area informed bandh supporters since morning blocked the road by burning tyres and putting up stone wall along the highway.
The spokesperson also informed that bandh supporters even stopped vehicles but clarified that no untoward incidents occurred.
However, the vehicles were allowed to pass after M Sushilkumar, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Senapati range arrived on the spot and came to an agreement with the representatives of the ADC, informed Ngamboi, spokesperson of the ADC, Sadar Hills area.
Ngamboi, meanwhile, informed that the ADC might resort to other forms of general strike or even economic blockade along the National Highway 39 if the state government do not pay heed to their demands.
Meanwhile, an official source informed that more 80 (eighty) vehicles including loaded trucks and passenger vehicles were stranded at Mao Gate in Senapati district Tuesday evening due to the bandh.
Inter-district passenger buses did not ply today.
According to reports received by NNN, bandhs in Chandel, Churachandpur and Senapati districts were most effective with some reported instances of tyres being burnt, road blocks by supporters and even vehicles put on halt.
The teachers' association had called for a 24 hours full Chakka bandh over the alleged failure of the state government in paying their salaries for the last 19 months including their allowances and arrears.
The association also reportedly closed all the six Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) effectively for two days on January 23-24 .
Speaking to NNN, Ngamboi, spokesperson of the ADC of Sadar Hills area informed bandh supporters since morning blocked the road by burning tyres and putting up stone wall along the highway.
The spokesperson also informed that bandh supporters even stopped vehicles but clarified that no untoward incidents occurred.
However, the vehicles were allowed to pass after M Sushilkumar, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Senapati range arrived on the spot and came to an agreement with the representatives of the ADC, informed Ngamboi, spokesperson of the ADC, Sadar Hills area.
Ngamboi, meanwhile, informed that the ADC might resort to other forms of general strike or even economic blockade along the National Highway 39 if the state government do not pay heed to their demands.
Meanwhile, an official source informed that more 80 (eighty) vehicles including loaded trucks and passenger vehicles were stranded at Mao Gate in Senapati district Tuesday evening due to the bandh.
Churachandpur PDS
Imphal, January 26 : Referring to the news report about the pilferage of PDS rice at Churachandpur, the DSO has claimed that no PDS rice was issued from FCS godown, Churachandpur from January 1 till date.
Whatever rice was distributed before Jan 1 was done so under proper supervision of FCS staff at DSO office.
The rice at the shop at CCpur was brought from Dimapur, said the DSO and added that the vouchers confirm this.
Whatever rice was distributed before Jan 1 was done so under proper supervision of FCS staff at DSO office.
The rice at the shop at CCpur was brought from Dimapur, said the DSO and added that the vouchers confirm this.
KWU&HR calls Moreh bandh
Imphal, January 26 : The Kuki Women Union and Human Rights (KWU&HR) Moreh has called a 48 hours Moreh bandh with effect from 6 am of January 26 till 6 am of January 28 demanding identification and arrest of the person (s) responsible for the murder of Lamkhothing Mate.
In a press release, the KWU&HR condemned in the strongest term the most heinous and brutal manner in which Lamkhothing Mate, a handicapped woman was looted, raped and murdered inside her own shop on January 22 .
Conveying that a mass protest rally will be taken out on January 27 against the murder, it said that further course of action shall be taken up in case the demand is not met by the authority concerned.
The KWU& HU further appealed to all like minded individuals and oganisations for cooperation.
In a press release, the KWU&HR condemned in the strongest term the most heinous and brutal manner in which Lamkhothing Mate, a handicapped woman was looted, raped and murdered inside her own shop on January 22 .
Conveying that a mass protest rally will be taken out on January 27 against the murder, it said that further course of action shall be taken up in case the demand is not met by the authority concerned.
The KWU& HU further appealed to all like minded individuals and oganisations for cooperation.
AR debunks UNLF claim
Imphal, January 24 Contrary to the claim of UNLF of having destroyed bunkers and inflicted casualties on security forces in Khenjang on January 18, troops of 10 JAK LI of 26 Sector Assam Rifles have inflicted large casualties on cadres of 293 MPA of UNLF, the PRO of Assam Rifles claimed in a statement today, adding that confirmation has been received regarding elimination of five cadres of UNLF including the mobile group commander identified as one self styled major in the firefight.
The PRO informed that in the late hours of January 18, a patrol party of 10 JAK LI was fired upon in the general area of Khenjang.
The troops in a well-planned move, retaliated the attack, said the PRO.
In the ensuing gun fight, five UGs were eliminated, said the statement.
However, taking advantage of the thick foliage, dark night and close proximity to the border, the other militants were able to slip alongwith the bodies of the killed militants, claimed the PRO further.
On search of the area later, blood trails and clothing and equipments were found, the PRO said, adding that UNLF is maintaining secrecy not to reveal these casualties as same will further lower the morale of its cadres.
The PRO informed that in the late hours of January 18, a patrol party of 10 JAK LI was fired upon in the general area of Khenjang.
The troops in a well-planned move, retaliated the attack, said the PRO.
In the ensuing gun fight, five UGs were eliminated, said the statement.
However, taking advantage of the thick foliage, dark night and close proximity to the border, the other militants were able to slip alongwith the bodies of the killed militants, claimed the PRO further.
On search of the area later, blood trails and clothing and equipments were found, the PRO said, adding that UNLF is maintaining secrecy not to reveal these casualties as same will further lower the morale of its cadres.
Relay hunger stir enters 46th day
Imphal, January 24 : THE RELAY-HUNGER strike being carried on under the aegis of the Sharmila Kanba Lup which commenced on December 10 last year at the Poropmat PDA complex will be entering the 46th day tomorrow.
On the 45 day today also, showing solidarity to Sharmila's fasting stir and with the voice to save her by repealing the AFSPA, around 70 womenfolk of Nambol, Lairenkabi, Utlou, Iroishemba etc.
staged the relay hunger strike.
Speaking to the participating womenfolk, president of the CADA headquarters, Lourembam Lata expressed shock over government silent even as the stir of Sharmila has completed eight year.
She is not doing it for her own shake, she added.
She revealed that Sharmila had chosen to launch the stir unable to remain silent when the security forces meted out atrocities and violated the modesty of the women under the shadow of the AFSPA since its imposition in the state.
"It is lucky for me to be able to attend the fast even for a day," she said.
Many persons like social workers Nahakpam Basantakumar, LEIMAKON president, LC Rita talked on the Act during the hunger strike.
On the 45 day today also, showing solidarity to Sharmila's fasting stir and with the voice to save her by repealing the AFSPA, around 70 womenfolk of Nambol, Lairenkabi, Utlou, Iroishemba etc.
staged the relay hunger strike.
Speaking to the participating womenfolk, president of the CADA headquarters, Lourembam Lata expressed shock over government silent even as the stir of Sharmila has completed eight year.
She is not doing it for her own shake, she added.
She revealed that Sharmila had chosen to launch the stir unable to remain silent when the security forces meted out atrocities and violated the modesty of the women under the shadow of the AFSPA since its imposition in the state.
"It is lucky for me to be able to attend the fast even for a day," she said.
Many persons like social workers Nahakpam Basantakumar, LEIMAKON president, LC Rita talked on the Act during the hunger strike.
JAC declares 'black area' at Khongjom, boycotts R-Day
Imphal, January 24 WHILE DECLARING "black area" in Khongjom, the JAC against Occupation of Phundrei Maning Ching (Chingjao Ching) for Installation of AR by Government of Manipur, Khongjom has decided to boycott the Republic Day Celebration.
The JAC took the decision as government failed to take up positive action even after the deadline set by the JAC on January 22 expired, a statement of the JAC demanding cancellation of the allotment to land at Phundrei Maning Ching said.
With the declaration of "black area" in Khongjom area, the JAC stated that black colour flags will be hoisted at every homesteads in Khongjom area apart from hoisting the same in all government and private institutions located in the area cover by the JAC.
Buses and other kinds of vehicles also asked to do the same by the JAC.
Except the black colour flag other flags will not be allowed to display in the area.
The same will continue till the demand of cancellation of land allotment to the AR is converted into action, it added.
While announcing the boycott of the Republic Day, it went to state that government keeping behind the voice of the people gives more important to the celebration apparently neglecting the place where the forefathers fought the last war of Manipur independent.
Government has neglected the sentiment of the people as well, the statement added while strongly decrying the it attitude even though the allotment hurt the sentiments of the people of not only Khongjom area but also the entire populace.
The JAC took the decision as government failed to take up positive action even after the deadline set by the JAC on January 22 expired, a statement of the JAC demanding cancellation of the allotment to land at Phundrei Maning Ching said.
With the declaration of "black area" in Khongjom area, the JAC stated that black colour flags will be hoisted at every homesteads in Khongjom area apart from hoisting the same in all government and private institutions located in the area cover by the JAC.
Buses and other kinds of vehicles also asked to do the same by the JAC.
Except the black colour flag other flags will not be allowed to display in the area.
The same will continue till the demand of cancellation of land allotment to the AR is converted into action, it added.
While announcing the boycott of the Republic Day, it went to state that government keeping behind the voice of the people gives more important to the celebration apparently neglecting the place where the forefathers fought the last war of Manipur independent.
Government has neglected the sentiment of the people as well, the statement added while strongly decrying the it attitude even though the allotment hurt the sentiments of the people of not only Khongjom area but also the entire populace.
Students, locals stage protest against bomb threat at school
Imphal, January 24 STUDENTS OF the Little Master English Higher Secondary School, Samurou and womenfolk of the Samurou today carried out a sit-in protest in front of the school premise decrying the placing of a bomb in the school by some unknowns suspected to be undergrounds yesterday.
Placards written with "Don't cause fear to the students by placing bomb, don't convert school into battlefield, make education, a free zone, don't bargain life with money," were displayed at the protest side.
The sit-in protest commenced from around 11 am and went on till 2 pm.
Mention may be made that a bomb wrapped with paper in a polythene bag was deposited at the premise of the school yesterday at around 11.50 am by some suspected underground activists.
The incident has caused panic to the students and teachers of the school appearing examination of the Standard-XI.
The incident has also led to the abandoned of the examination.
The founder secretary of the Little Master Higher Secondary School, Samurou Moirangthem Thoiba said the bomb was placed by one unknown person who entered to the school compound and dropped it at the school veranda stating to hand over it to the principal.
The incident has disturbed the exam for the day, he said.
He also revealed that due to the pressure from various underground organizations to the school, school authorities could not sit in the school and look after the school administration and students also feel fear of any untoward incident in the school.
In the recent time also a bomb was placed in the school and threatened the school authorities by some persons claim to be KCP on the demand of Rs.5 lakhs while appealing all concerns not to do such kinds of act which caused fear to the students and school authorities by repeating the similar incident of yesterday.
Placards written with "Don't cause fear to the students by placing bomb, don't convert school into battlefield, make education, a free zone, don't bargain life with money," were displayed at the protest side.
The sit-in protest commenced from around 11 am and went on till 2 pm.
Mention may be made that a bomb wrapped with paper in a polythene bag was deposited at the premise of the school yesterday at around 11.50 am by some suspected underground activists.
The incident has caused panic to the students and teachers of the school appearing examination of the Standard-XI.
The incident has also led to the abandoned of the examination.
The founder secretary of the Little Master Higher Secondary School, Samurou Moirangthem Thoiba said the bomb was placed by one unknown person who entered to the school compound and dropped it at the school veranda stating to hand over it to the principal.
The incident has disturbed the exam for the day, he said.
He also revealed that due to the pressure from various underground organizations to the school, school authorities could not sit in the school and look after the school administration and students also feel fear of any untoward incident in the school.
In the recent time also a bomb was placed in the school and threatened the school authorities by some persons claim to be KCP on the demand of Rs.5 lakhs while appealing all concerns not to do such kinds of act which caused fear to the students and school authorities by repeating the similar incident of yesterday.
Songpekmun villagers homeless
Imphal, January 24 : MEMBERS OF nine families of Songpekmun village in Thanlon sub division of Churachandpur district have been rendered homeless after their homes had been burnt to ashes on the night of January 20 .
A press release issued today by the PIB (Defence Wing) stated that tragedy struck nine poor families of Songpekmun village in the remote and backward sub-division of Thanlon in Churachandpur district when fire engulfed their houses in the middle of the night on January 20 .
Around 2 o'clock on the morning of January 20, a resident noticed fire in one of the houses and raised an alarm.
However, since the houses of the poor villagers were made of only dried bamboos, in no time the fire spread to the adjoining houses.
The people had just enough time to save themselves and their children before the raging inferno devoured their homes and their meager but precious belongings.
The fire consumed everything in its way.
It was sheer providence that no one was injured except for a few minor burns in some of the villagers.
The press release further stated that when 12 MADRAS, located at Thanlon, came to know about the incident, they reacted in their usual professional way.
A relief team of a Medical Officer with essential medical supplies and rations for the affected people reached the spot in the morning.
Though there were no serious injuries, it was a sad sight to see small children pick whatever was left of what was once their home among the smoldering ruins.
The troops of 12 MADRAS distributed rice, milk, dal, sugar and tea leaves to the affected people.
It stated that the only civil government presence was in the form of a doctor from the Thanlon PHC who treated some of the inured.
Other than him, there was no official present.
In fact during the entire day, no official even cared to visit the village, the press release stated.
A press release issued today by the PIB (Defence Wing) stated that tragedy struck nine poor families of Songpekmun village in the remote and backward sub-division of Thanlon in Churachandpur district when fire engulfed their houses in the middle of the night on January 20 .
Around 2 o'clock on the morning of January 20, a resident noticed fire in one of the houses and raised an alarm.
However, since the houses of the poor villagers were made of only dried bamboos, in no time the fire spread to the adjoining houses.
The people had just enough time to save themselves and their children before the raging inferno devoured their homes and their meager but precious belongings.
The fire consumed everything in its way.
It was sheer providence that no one was injured except for a few minor burns in some of the villagers.
The press release further stated that when 12 MADRAS, located at Thanlon, came to know about the incident, they reacted in their usual professional way.
A relief team of a Medical Officer with essential medical supplies and rations for the affected people reached the spot in the morning.
Though there were no serious injuries, it was a sad sight to see small children pick whatever was left of what was once their home among the smoldering ruins.
The troops of 12 MADRAS distributed rice, milk, dal, sugar and tea leaves to the affected people.
It stated that the only civil government presence was in the form of a doctor from the Thanlon PHC who treated some of the inured.
Other than him, there was no official present.
In fact during the entire day, no official even cared to visit the village, the press release stated.
Woman murdered after rape at Moreh
Imphal, January 24 IN A grim incident, a physically challenged woman of 35 years was found murdered in a suspicious manner this morning inside her own shop at Moreh border town in Chandel district.
It is suspected that she was sexually assaulted and then murdered by throttling her.
According to official sources the incident took place in a shop located at Moreh Ward No 9 near a forest gate, which according to the sources belonged to the deceased.
The deceased has been identified as one Lamkhotin Mate @ Tingbu daughter of Jamlet Mate of Thanglom Veng, Moreh Town.
Sources further said that the victim might have been strangulated to death after being raped as she was found with her inner pants pulled down to her knees besides her private parts bleeding and also some strangulation marks on her neck.
Family sources informed that Lamkhotin had been living alone in her shop (pan dukan) for the last one year.
Post mortem on the body has been done at RIMS mortuary and handed over to the family.
It is suspected that she was sexually assaulted and then murdered by throttling her.
According to official sources the incident took place in a shop located at Moreh Ward No 9 near a forest gate, which according to the sources belonged to the deceased.
The deceased has been identified as one Lamkhotin Mate @ Tingbu daughter of Jamlet Mate of Thanglom Veng, Moreh Town.
Sources further said that the victim might have been strangulated to death after being raped as she was found with her inner pants pulled down to her knees besides her private parts bleeding and also some strangulation marks on her neck.
Family sources informed that Lamkhotin had been living alone in her shop (pan dukan) for the last one year.
Post mortem on the body has been done at RIMS mortuary and handed over to the family.
National awards galore for State talents
Imphal, January 24 : It's raining National level awards in Manipur besides two more nominations in the pipeline.
In a move that could positively be considered a big morale boost and recognition to all the efforts and hard works put in by the people of Manipur at the National level, three individuals from the State are all set to receive National or equivalent awards in the coming days even as two professors of the Manipur University (MU) have already received on December 29, 2008.Interestingly, two more are nominees of other National level awards.
According to reports, Prof W Viswanath Singh and Dr RK Gambhir Singh of the Department of Life Sciences, MU were conferred gold medals and a citation each by the Zoological Society of India on December 29, 2008 during the 19th National Congress of Zoology held at Gauhati University in Guwahati.
They were awarded the National level awards for their outstanding contributions in the field of research, added the report.
Besides this, two artists from the State have also been chosen for the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards, 2008.According to reports published as received from the Manipur Information Centre (MIC), Ningombam Ibobi Singh was chosen for his contribution in the field of Nata Sankirtana while Leitanthem Heramot Meitei was chosen for his contribution in Thang-Ta.
According to the reports, the General Council of Sangeet Natak Akademi, the National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama in its meeting held in New Delhi on January 10, 2009 selected 34 (thirty-four) practitioners of Music, Dance and Theatre for the Akademi Puraskar (Akademi Awards) for the year 2008 .
The award, conferred in 1952, not only symbolises the highest standard of excellence and achievement on national basis but also recognises sustained individual work and contribution to the practice, stated the reports.
The award will reportedly carry a cash prize of Rs 50,000/ besides a Tamrapatra and Angavastram.
With the above mentioned awards going off mainly to the elders of the State and not wanting to be left behind, a lad from the State, Y Addison Singh is all set to receive the National bravery award for children on Republic Day in New Delhi.
According to various reports as received from the MIC, Addison Singh is amongst the twenty children including eleven girls selected by the Central Government to receive the National Bravery Awards for Children, 2008.The award is being given to those who showed immense courage and even risk their lives to save someone or sometimes their own.
Under this award, the awardees are entitled to financial assistance till completion of their schoolings under sponsorship programme of the councils besides the government of India reserving some seats for them in medical, engineering and polytechnic.
Besides these winners and to be winners, it is also interesting to note that MC Mary Kom has been nominated for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award which is one of the biggest sporting awards in the country.
Winner of four World Boxing Championships in the 46 Kg category, MC Mary had been earlier denied of the award.
But after winning the world boxing championship for the fourth time, there are high speculations that she would eventually win the award this time.
Moreover, MC Mary Kom is also been nominated for the 'MTV India Youth Icon of the Year, 2008', an award given by the Music television to an individual for his/her outstanding achievements in a particular field in the given year.
And joining all these individual awards and nominations is the Loktak Lake of the State.
Situated in Moirang of Bishnupur district, the largest fresh water lake in the North East of India has been reportedly nominated for the NDTV's Seven Wonders of India.
Perhaps, in a first of its kind, the news channel of India, NDTV is reportedly holding the campaign in collaboration with the Union ministry of Tourism as a part of Incredible India! campaign.
Manipur on the National list is perhaps nothing new to the people of the State with state already being a recipient of many National awards in the previous yearsbe it literature, art, theatre or even cinemas not to forget sports.
However, these awards could once again remind the people of the state that their efforts and hard works are being recognised.
These could also be perhaps a reminder to the people of the state that they could perhaps beat just anyone to the race for the national awards thus encouraging and boosting their morale.
In a move that could positively be considered a big morale boost and recognition to all the efforts and hard works put in by the people of Manipur at the National level, three individuals from the State are all set to receive National or equivalent awards in the coming days even as two professors of the Manipur University (MU) have already received on December 29, 2008.Interestingly, two more are nominees of other National level awards.
According to reports, Prof W Viswanath Singh and Dr RK Gambhir Singh of the Department of Life Sciences, MU were conferred gold medals and a citation each by the Zoological Society of India on December 29, 2008 during the 19th National Congress of Zoology held at Gauhati University in Guwahati.
They were awarded the National level awards for their outstanding contributions in the field of research, added the report.
Besides this, two artists from the State have also been chosen for the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards, 2008.According to reports published as received from the Manipur Information Centre (MIC), Ningombam Ibobi Singh was chosen for his contribution in the field of Nata Sankirtana while Leitanthem Heramot Meitei was chosen for his contribution in Thang-Ta.
According to the reports, the General Council of Sangeet Natak Akademi, the National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama in its meeting held in New Delhi on January 10, 2009 selected 34 (thirty-four) practitioners of Music, Dance and Theatre for the Akademi Puraskar (Akademi Awards) for the year 2008 .
The award, conferred in 1952, not only symbolises the highest standard of excellence and achievement on national basis but also recognises sustained individual work and contribution to the practice, stated the reports.
The award will reportedly carry a cash prize of Rs 50,000/ besides a Tamrapatra and Angavastram.
With the above mentioned awards going off mainly to the elders of the State and not wanting to be left behind, a lad from the State, Y Addison Singh is all set to receive the National bravery award for children on Republic Day in New Delhi.
According to various reports as received from the MIC, Addison Singh is amongst the twenty children including eleven girls selected by the Central Government to receive the National Bravery Awards for Children, 2008.The award is being given to those who showed immense courage and even risk their lives to save someone or sometimes their own.
Under this award, the awardees are entitled to financial assistance till completion of their schoolings under sponsorship programme of the councils besides the government of India reserving some seats for them in medical, engineering and polytechnic.
Besides these winners and to be winners, it is also interesting to note that MC Mary Kom has been nominated for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award which is one of the biggest sporting awards in the country.
Winner of four World Boxing Championships in the 46 Kg category, MC Mary had been earlier denied of the award.
But after winning the world boxing championship for the fourth time, there are high speculations that she would eventually win the award this time.
Moreover, MC Mary Kom is also been nominated for the 'MTV India Youth Icon of the Year, 2008', an award given by the Music television to an individual for his/her outstanding achievements in a particular field in the given year.
And joining all these individual awards and nominations is the Loktak Lake of the State.
Situated in Moirang of Bishnupur district, the largest fresh water lake in the North East of India has been reportedly nominated for the NDTV's Seven Wonders of India.
Perhaps, in a first of its kind, the news channel of India, NDTV is reportedly holding the campaign in collaboration with the Union ministry of Tourism as a part of Incredible India! campaign.
Manipur on the National list is perhaps nothing new to the people of the State with state already being a recipient of many National awards in the previous yearsbe it literature, art, theatre or even cinemas not to forget sports.
However, these awards could once again remind the people of the state that their efforts and hard works are being recognised.
These could also be perhaps a reminder to the people of the state that they could perhaps beat just anyone to the race for the national awards thus encouraging and boosting their morale.
Weeky news for the week Jan 17-Jan 23, 2009
Mumbai: Describing the Satyam episode as a "blot" on India's corporate image, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh says the government is determined to get to the bottom of the fraud and punish the guilty.
Lucknow: Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt makes his political debut as Samajwadi Party candidate for Lucknow Lok Sabha constituency amidst fanfare by launching a virtual poll campaign but expresses disappointment that no Congress leader stood by him after his father Sunil Dutt's death.
Sunday Hyderabad: After nine days in jail, Chairman of Satyam's tainted ex-chairman B Ramalinga Raju, his brother and ex-MD Rama Raju and former CFO V Srinivas are taken into custody by the Andhra Pradesh CID and questioned, as the Raju family-promoted Maytas got some relief.
New Delhi: Fog again plays havoc with the delay of about 50 domestic and international flights, cancellation of 15 and diversion of 23 others at the Indira Gandhi International airport.
Monday New Delhi: Jharkhand is placed under President's rule, a week after Chief Minister Shibhu Soren resigns after losing a byelection in the state.
New Delhi: BJP leader Yashwant Sinha, Jharkhand party chief Pashupati Nath Singh and former Manipur chief minister W Nipamacha Singh will contest the forthcoming Parliamentary polls from Hazaribagh,Dhanbad and Inner Manipur constituencies respectively, according to the BJP's list of 18 Lok Sabha candidates declared.
Tuesday Mumbai: Maharashtra Police files a chargesheet against 14 people including a serving Army official into the Malegaon blast which had brought to the fore the possible role of Hindu extremists in terror activities.
Jaisalmer: India successfully test-fires a new version of the nuclear-capable BrahMos missile at Pokhran.
Wednesday New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh undergoes 'coronary angiography' as part of a series of heart-related tests at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which claimed to have successfully test-fired the BrahMos missile on Tuesday, backtracks, saying it had missed the target after last minute glitches.
New Delhi: The international community, led by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation pledges over USD 630 million to fight polio in India over the next three years.
Thursday New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh greets Barack new US President on his election and expresses hope that the bilateral relations between India and US would strengthen further.
Mumbai: Triple Oscar nominee music maestro A R Rahman says he felt on "top of the world" and discloses that he was getting offers from Hollywood producers to provide the musical score for their films.
Friday New Delhi: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton calls up External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee to express desire to take the bilateral ties to a new level.
New Delhi: India slaps a ban on import of toys from China after cheap supplies from the neighbouring country upset the applecart of the domestic manufacturers.
Lucknow: Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt makes his political debut as Samajwadi Party candidate for Lucknow Lok Sabha constituency amidst fanfare by launching a virtual poll campaign but expresses disappointment that no Congress leader stood by him after his father Sunil Dutt's death.
Sunday Hyderabad: After nine days in jail, Chairman of Satyam's tainted ex-chairman B Ramalinga Raju, his brother and ex-MD Rama Raju and former CFO V Srinivas are taken into custody by the Andhra Pradesh CID and questioned, as the Raju family-promoted Maytas got some relief.
New Delhi: Fog again plays havoc with the delay of about 50 domestic and international flights, cancellation of 15 and diversion of 23 others at the Indira Gandhi International airport.
Monday New Delhi: Jharkhand is placed under President's rule, a week after Chief Minister Shibhu Soren resigns after losing a byelection in the state.
New Delhi: BJP leader Yashwant Sinha, Jharkhand party chief Pashupati Nath Singh and former Manipur chief minister W Nipamacha Singh will contest the forthcoming Parliamentary polls from Hazaribagh,Dhanbad and Inner Manipur constituencies respectively, according to the BJP's list of 18 Lok Sabha candidates declared.
Tuesday Mumbai: Maharashtra Police files a chargesheet against 14 people including a serving Army official into the Malegaon blast which had brought to the fore the possible role of Hindu extremists in terror activities.
Jaisalmer: India successfully test-fires a new version of the nuclear-capable BrahMos missile at Pokhran.
Wednesday New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh undergoes 'coronary angiography' as part of a series of heart-related tests at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which claimed to have successfully test-fired the BrahMos missile on Tuesday, backtracks, saying it had missed the target after last minute glitches.
New Delhi: The international community, led by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation pledges over USD 630 million to fight polio in India over the next three years.
Thursday New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh greets Barack new US President on his election and expresses hope that the bilateral relations between India and US would strengthen further.
Mumbai: Triple Oscar nominee music maestro A R Rahman says he felt on "top of the world" and discloses that he was getting offers from Hollywood producers to provide the musical score for their films.
Friday New Delhi: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton calls up External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee to express desire to take the bilateral ties to a new level.
New Delhi: India slaps a ban on import of toys from China after cheap supplies from the neighbouring country upset the applecart of the domestic manufacturers.
Process as End
Source: IMPHAL FREE PRESS
Posted: 2009-01-24
Are peace talks in the northeast destined to remain a process until finally the process itself becomes the goal? This is a question which cannot miss any serious observers of the region. The answer seems to be in the affirmative, not merely from watching the Naga peace talks, but also the entry of so many other groups in Manipur into this process, in their case without any clear cut route charted out, or even the blueprint of what might be the ultimate solution, known. In fact, for many of the groups entering the fray now, it was never very clear what they were fighting for when they were fighting, unlike say the Nagas who were never in any doubt what they wanted from the time the elite leadership amongst them from the then Naga Club met the Simon Commission when the latter visited Nagaland in 1929. It is also unimaginable these latter groups would be able to come up with any credible, tangible goals, justified by the history or the present, now that they have supposedly stopped fighting. And yet the juggernaut has been set rolling and the “peace process” would carry on, perhaps for a decade, or even several decades, by which time a generation or two would have changed guards, and whatever little tangible goals that can be said to have yoked these disparate groups together would have been lost sight of.
From the state’s point of view, maybe this is a solution in itself. If this indeed is the case, then it would be much more fitting to refer to these peace talks as “peace offensives” rather than “peace initiatives”. In an oxymoronic sense, such a “peace” would become a “war” strategy. We would say this is a legitimate strategy too – that is, legitimised by war. Ultimately, the object in a war, be it open or cold, tepid or by proxy, is to win. But even if it is legitimate under the sweeping war philosophy encapsulated by the terse and familiar phrase: “everything is fair in love and war”, another vital question would continue to haunt. It may be legitimate, but does this necessarily guarantee success? It is for this than for any other reasons that we have reservation about the present push. After a settlement has been reached, would the larger problem of insurgency be solved conclusively, considering also the fact that the “peace offensive” still fails to impress many quarters that matter. After seeing how the state government treated the few dozen militants who it managed to wean away from the rebel camp, the prospect of convincing more of the benefits they can reap from hanging up their jungle boots and saying farewell to arms would have receded even farther away.
There is a little more to be said on the “peace offensive”. Probably the new initiatives, especially of enlisting some factions of a hopelessly splintered underground group operating in the valley area, was meant as bait to lure bigger fish. Those with some experience in angling (and many of us are as children with our improvised fishing devices), would know it fully well that when the bait becomes too obvious, particularly when the menacing hook is not covered entirely by the bait, no fish would bite. We are sure those who fashioned his new initiative would know this too. Our hunch is, nobody seriously waging the insurrection war would bite this bait. And like it or not, the chain is only as strong as the weakest link, and here are the obvious weak links of this strategy. Rather than a strategy, what we propose in its place is the offer of an open-minded and open-hearted parley that laid a premium on a solution honourable to all parties involved.
But this “process as end” story is a doubled-edged sword which can cut either way. If “peace talks” are doomed to be reduced to this, insurgency itself is trapped in this same syndrome. This juggernaut too is become a perennial self-sustaining process which follows its own unique logic. The constant fights over government contract jobs by these non state players through their proxies, the need for harsh diktats to ensure public compliance to their agendas rather than voluntary participation etc, are some symptoms of this decay corroding away the soul of the insurrection. Under the circumstance, if the “fish baiting” games are to be abandoned, the “one-up-man ship” war games too must end. What is called for is a one to one discourse, which can give way to more hard-headed dialogues to finally pave the way for a negotiated settlement.
Posted: 2009-01-24
Are peace talks in the northeast destined to remain a process until finally the process itself becomes the goal? This is a question which cannot miss any serious observers of the region. The answer seems to be in the affirmative, not merely from watching the Naga peace talks, but also the entry of so many other groups in Manipur into this process, in their case without any clear cut route charted out, or even the blueprint of what might be the ultimate solution, known. In fact, for many of the groups entering the fray now, it was never very clear what they were fighting for when they were fighting, unlike say the Nagas who were never in any doubt what they wanted from the time the elite leadership amongst them from the then Naga Club met the Simon Commission when the latter visited Nagaland in 1929. It is also unimaginable these latter groups would be able to come up with any credible, tangible goals, justified by the history or the present, now that they have supposedly stopped fighting. And yet the juggernaut has been set rolling and the “peace process” would carry on, perhaps for a decade, or even several decades, by which time a generation or two would have changed guards, and whatever little tangible goals that can be said to have yoked these disparate groups together would have been lost sight of.
From the state’s point of view, maybe this is a solution in itself. If this indeed is the case, then it would be much more fitting to refer to these peace talks as “peace offensives” rather than “peace initiatives”. In an oxymoronic sense, such a “peace” would become a “war” strategy. We would say this is a legitimate strategy too – that is, legitimised by war. Ultimately, the object in a war, be it open or cold, tepid or by proxy, is to win. But even if it is legitimate under the sweeping war philosophy encapsulated by the terse and familiar phrase: “everything is fair in love and war”, another vital question would continue to haunt. It may be legitimate, but does this necessarily guarantee success? It is for this than for any other reasons that we have reservation about the present push. After a settlement has been reached, would the larger problem of insurgency be solved conclusively, considering also the fact that the “peace offensive” still fails to impress many quarters that matter. After seeing how the state government treated the few dozen militants who it managed to wean away from the rebel camp, the prospect of convincing more of the benefits they can reap from hanging up their jungle boots and saying farewell to arms would have receded even farther away.
There is a little more to be said on the “peace offensive”. Probably the new initiatives, especially of enlisting some factions of a hopelessly splintered underground group operating in the valley area, was meant as bait to lure bigger fish. Those with some experience in angling (and many of us are as children with our improvised fishing devices), would know it fully well that when the bait becomes too obvious, particularly when the menacing hook is not covered entirely by the bait, no fish would bite. We are sure those who fashioned his new initiative would know this too. Our hunch is, nobody seriously waging the insurrection war would bite this bait. And like it or not, the chain is only as strong as the weakest link, and here are the obvious weak links of this strategy. Rather than a strategy, what we propose in its place is the offer of an open-minded and open-hearted parley that laid a premium on a solution honourable to all parties involved.
But this “process as end” story is a doubled-edged sword which can cut either way. If “peace talks” are doomed to be reduced to this, insurgency itself is trapped in this same syndrome. This juggernaut too is become a perennial self-sustaining process which follows its own unique logic. The constant fights over government contract jobs by these non state players through their proxies, the need for harsh diktats to ensure public compliance to their agendas rather than voluntary participation etc, are some symptoms of this decay corroding away the soul of the insurrection. Under the circumstance, if the “fish baiting” games are to be abandoned, the “one-up-man ship” war games too must end. What is called for is a one to one discourse, which can give way to more hard-headed dialogues to finally pave the way for a negotiated settlement.
ISTV worker harassed by security forces
IMPHAL, Jan 24 : All roads and shops were closed by the local public at Hapta Golapati in Imphal east district today in protest against the detention of Aimir Shah, 30, son of E Abdulla of Hapta Golapati by the security forces on January 22 around 4.15 pm at Bishnupur.
Later, after an agreement between the police and public a sit-in protest was staged and a public meeting was held.
According to public the person presently works as a line technician of ISTV and was picked up in front of his brother`s shop while he was out for buying medicines for his mother.
The locals and family members enquired with the Imphal east, Imphal west and Bishnupur district police but were informed that no such report regarding any disappearances of detentions were there. Later, the JAC and Bishnupur police found that he was at a Ningthoukhong army camp. He was handed over to Bishnupur police and family members this afternoon.
Aimir expressed that he had no relations with any militant organisation and added that he was picked up by the Bishnupur commandos and dumped at the Ningthoukhong army camp. He also said that the police threatened him and asked him if he belonged to the PULF or was an informer.
Later, after an agreement between the police and public a sit-in protest was staged and a public meeting was held.
According to public the person presently works as a line technician of ISTV and was picked up in front of his brother`s shop while he was out for buying medicines for his mother.
The locals and family members enquired with the Imphal east, Imphal west and Bishnupur district police but were informed that no such report regarding any disappearances of detentions were there. Later, the JAC and Bishnupur police found that he was at a Ningthoukhong army camp. He was handed over to Bishnupur police and family members this afternoon.
Aimir expressed that he had no relations with any militant organisation and added that he was picked up by the Bishnupur commandos and dumped at the Ningthoukhong army camp. He also said that the police threatened him and asked him if he belonged to the PULF or was an informer.
States asked to remain on high alert around R-Day
NEW DELHI, Jan 24 : The Government of India continues to pay the closest attention to the security situation and to terrorist threats emanating from different organisations. Intelligence is gathered and shared on a 24x7 basis with all agencies of the Central government and the state governments, the ministry of home affairs has said.
Following the conference of chief ministers on January 6, 2009, the state governments have upgraded their intelligence gathering machinery. They have also undertaken a number of measures to prevent and counter terrorist threats.
Nevertheless, there are a number of terrorist, extremist and insurgent groups which continue to pose a serious threat to the security of the country. The period before and after the Republic Day is an especially vulnerable period. Government of India has sensitised the state governments and has asked them to remain at the highest level of alertness.
The Union home ministry has sought the cooperation of the people in preventing and countering terrorist threats and appealed to the people to report suspicious activities and movement of suspicious persons in their neighbourhood to the local police. This can be done by calling the police control room at the district/city level or, where the service is available, by calling the toll free number 1090.
The security forces will be able to discharge their duties more effectively if they have the fullest cooperation of the people, it said.
Following the conference of chief ministers on January 6, 2009, the state governments have upgraded their intelligence gathering machinery. They have also undertaken a number of measures to prevent and counter terrorist threats.
Nevertheless, there are a number of terrorist, extremist and insurgent groups which continue to pose a serious threat to the security of the country. The period before and after the Republic Day is an especially vulnerable period. Government of India has sensitised the state governments and has asked them to remain at the highest level of alertness.
The Union home ministry has sought the cooperation of the people in preventing and countering terrorist threats and appealed to the people to report suspicious activities and movement of suspicious persons in their neighbourhood to the local police. This can be done by calling the police control room at the district/city level or, where the service is available, by calling the toll free number 1090.
The security forces will be able to discharge their duties more effectively if they have the fullest cooperation of the people, it said.
AR evicts NSCN(IM) cadres from Siroi but gives them safe passage to designated camps
IMPHAL, Jan 24 : After a three days of standoff between a group of NSCN(IM) men who tried to set up a camp in Siroi village and troops of the Assam Rifles, the matter has been brought to a conclusion today with the NSCN(IM) men seeking safe passage of their men to their officially recognized designated camps.
A press release by the IGAR (South) said that NSCN (IM) cadres attempted to establish a camp in close vicinity of Siroy village early this month.
Upon receiving the information regarding the presence of armed cadres of NSCN (IM) in Siroi village area, Assam Rifles troops reached the location and cordoned off the area effectively on January 19.
The release said there are three camps in Manipur for NSCN (IM) as "camps taken Note of" by the govt. These are Bonning in Senapati district, Ooklong in Tamenglong district and Phungchong in Chandel district. Movement of armed cadres is not permitted in any other area.
The release said the NSCN (IM) has been trying to establish new camps earlier too but all these attempts were foiled by the troops.
It said in 2007 they tried to establish camp in Siroi, but they were evicted and camp destroyed. Recently again they tried to establish a new camp at Khumbi near Phungyar, but they were removed and camp destroyed.
This time once again they have tried to establish camp in Siroi village but the Assam Rifles has not allowed them.
The release said the NSCN (IM) requested for the safe passage to their ranks from the failed camp site at Siroi. This has been considered and granted in order that the issue is resolved amicably in the interest of peace and tranquility in the area.
The Assam Rifles however reiterated that movements of NSCN (IM) cadres either in uniform or with arms will not be permitted.
Provision of safe passage however has been accepted as a one time measure in the interest of peace and tranquility it said warning such leniency will not be forthcoming again in the future.
Earlier, the United NGOs Mission, Manipur, Thoubal district network has said in a release that the report of tensions between the AR and the NSCN(IM) at Siroi of Ukhrul district from January 20 had made the innocent people living in the area fear for their lives, especially the women, children and daily bread earners.
The mission has appealed for the protection of civilian lives by the government which is the guardian of the people, it said while also wishing for a quick settlement to the Siroi issue.
The Women`s Committee of the United NGOs Mission, Manipur has also appealed to the state and non-state armed forces stationed at Siroi village to ensure the safety of the civilian population.
It has called upon both sides to protect the lives of the civilians specially the women and children and respect for internationalhumanitarian law and also not to take up any action that would be harmful to the lives of the villagers.
It also expressed solidarity and deep concern for the women of Siroi village and other villages in the surrounding area while praying for the resolving of the stand off amicably and without further delay.
The North East Dialogue Forum has also expressed its concern over the bitter situation between the Assam Rifles and the NSCN(IM) over a camp at Siroy village in Ukhrul district because such a situation impinges solely on the women and children in particular and the innocent civilians in general, a release from the forum said.
The forum has appealed to both the parties to resolve the situation in an amicable way and relieve the anxiety of the womenfolk of Siroy and neighbouring villages who have been sitting on vigil 24 hours a day while braving the winter cold.
The forum has also appealed that all concerned refrain from doing anything that may impair the mental and physical normalcy of the innocent civilians in the area.
A press release by the IGAR (South) said that NSCN (IM) cadres attempted to establish a camp in close vicinity of Siroy village early this month.
Upon receiving the information regarding the presence of armed cadres of NSCN (IM) in Siroi village area, Assam Rifles troops reached the location and cordoned off the area effectively on January 19.
The release said there are three camps in Manipur for NSCN (IM) as "camps taken Note of" by the govt. These are Bonning in Senapati district, Ooklong in Tamenglong district and Phungchong in Chandel district. Movement of armed cadres is not permitted in any other area.
The release said the NSCN (IM) has been trying to establish new camps earlier too but all these attempts were foiled by the troops.
It said in 2007 they tried to establish camp in Siroi, but they were evicted and camp destroyed. Recently again they tried to establish a new camp at Khumbi near Phungyar, but they were removed and camp destroyed.
This time once again they have tried to establish camp in Siroi village but the Assam Rifles has not allowed them.
The release said the NSCN (IM) requested for the safe passage to their ranks from the failed camp site at Siroi. This has been considered and granted in order that the issue is resolved amicably in the interest of peace and tranquility in the area.
The Assam Rifles however reiterated that movements of NSCN (IM) cadres either in uniform or with arms will not be permitted.
Provision of safe passage however has been accepted as a one time measure in the interest of peace and tranquility it said warning such leniency will not be forthcoming again in the future.
Earlier, the United NGOs Mission, Manipur, Thoubal district network has said in a release that the report of tensions between the AR and the NSCN(IM) at Siroi of Ukhrul district from January 20 had made the innocent people living in the area fear for their lives, especially the women, children and daily bread earners.
The mission has appealed for the protection of civilian lives by the government which is the guardian of the people, it said while also wishing for a quick settlement to the Siroi issue.
The Women`s Committee of the United NGOs Mission, Manipur has also appealed to the state and non-state armed forces stationed at Siroi village to ensure the safety of the civilian population.
It has called upon both sides to protect the lives of the civilians specially the women and children and respect for internationalhumanitarian law and also not to take up any action that would be harmful to the lives of the villagers.
It also expressed solidarity and deep concern for the women of Siroi village and other villages in the surrounding area while praying for the resolving of the stand off amicably and without further delay.
The North East Dialogue Forum has also expressed its concern over the bitter situation between the Assam Rifles and the NSCN(IM) over a camp at Siroy village in Ukhrul district because such a situation impinges solely on the women and children in particular and the innocent civilians in general, a release from the forum said.
The forum has appealed to both the parties to resolve the situation in an amicable way and relieve the anxiety of the womenfolk of Siroy and neighbouring villages who have been sitting on vigil 24 hours a day while braving the winter cold.
The forum has also appealed that all concerned refrain from doing anything that may impair the mental and physical normalcy of the innocent civilians in the area.
AMWJU, EF suspend two editors for issuing I-cards to UG leaders
IMPHAL, Jan 24 : The All Manipur Working Journalists Union, AMWJU, has in an emergency meeting today decided to indefinitely suspend the editor of the afternoon daily Kanglaipaki Meira from the union for having personally issued press identity cards to certain leaders of the KCP, who were arrested from outside the state recently, a press statement by the AMWJU said.
It may be recalled, two editors, Wangkhemcha Shyamjai of the Kangleipaki Meira and Saikhom Jugol of Meeyam a morning daily, were reported to have personally issued press identity cards to some of the leaders of the KCP arrested from Delhi and Bangalore recently.
The AMWJU in follow up action, confirmed the report from the Bishenpur district police SP and also from the two editors themselves, and have as a consequence decided on the action.
Jugol who is also a member of the Editors` Forum, has been dropped from the forum, according to the report tabled before the AMWJU by representatives of the Editors` Forum, it said.
Further, the AMWJU meeting also decided that the AMWJU would institute an inquiry into the incident by a enquiry team headed by the AMWJU general secretary, it said.
The report of the enquiry team would be tabled before a general body meeting of the scribes body within a week, the statement said.
Yesterday, in a release from SP, Bishnupur district had said two of the five KCP leaders arrested in New Delhi carried with them press identity cards issued by two newspapers in Imphal.
The arrested men are Chongtham Manglemjao alias K.K. Mangang alias Ngouba alias Irabot alias Koi age 56, son of (late) Ch. Mani of Nagamapal Singjubung Leirak, Imphal West, general secretary cum foreign secretary of KCP; Naorem Amumacha alias Yambung age 56, son of N. Hera of Kakwa Naorem Leikai, president elect of KCP; Chongtham Ibomcha Singh age 35, son of (late) Mani of Singjubung Leikai, Imphal West, collection of finance in-charge KCP; Ngarianbam Ratan, 36, son of Ng. Ibobi of Thangmeiband Lairenhanjaba Leikai, assistant aid of K.K.Mangang.
They were arrested from their hideouts in Delhi on January 17. A case has been registered and presently they are in Delhi Police custody.
Two other hardcore leaders of KCP, Naorem Brojen alias James alias City Meitei alias Hobi, 32, son of N. Nara Singh of Tentha Khunou Bazar Naorem Leikai, Thoubal District and Naorem Romesh Singh, 31, son of N. Manihar of Tentha Khunou Bazar Naorem Leikai, Thoubal District, at present residing in Lamboi Khongnangkhong, Imphal West District were also arrested from their hideouts in Bangalore on January 19 and brought to Imphal today. A case has been registered against him by the police.
Among those who carried a press identity card was Amumacha, the KCP president elect. He had a valid Sub-Editor I-card of Kangleipak Meir, the police statement had said.
The other arrested man who had a press identity card in his possession was Ngarianbam Ratan. He had a reporter`s card of Meeyam morning daily, according to the police.
It may be recalled, two editors, Wangkhemcha Shyamjai of the Kangleipaki Meira and Saikhom Jugol of Meeyam a morning daily, were reported to have personally issued press identity cards to some of the leaders of the KCP arrested from Delhi and Bangalore recently.
The AMWJU in follow up action, confirmed the report from the Bishenpur district police SP and also from the two editors themselves, and have as a consequence decided on the action.
Jugol who is also a member of the Editors` Forum, has been dropped from the forum, according to the report tabled before the AMWJU by representatives of the Editors` Forum, it said.
Further, the AMWJU meeting also decided that the AMWJU would institute an inquiry into the incident by a enquiry team headed by the AMWJU general secretary, it said.
The report of the enquiry team would be tabled before a general body meeting of the scribes body within a week, the statement said.
Yesterday, in a release from SP, Bishnupur district had said two of the five KCP leaders arrested in New Delhi carried with them press identity cards issued by two newspapers in Imphal.
The arrested men are Chongtham Manglemjao alias K.K. Mangang alias Ngouba alias Irabot alias Koi age 56, son of (late) Ch. Mani of Nagamapal Singjubung Leirak, Imphal West, general secretary cum foreign secretary of KCP; Naorem Amumacha alias Yambung age 56, son of N. Hera of Kakwa Naorem Leikai, president elect of KCP; Chongtham Ibomcha Singh age 35, son of (late) Mani of Singjubung Leikai, Imphal West, collection of finance in-charge KCP; Ngarianbam Ratan, 36, son of Ng. Ibobi of Thangmeiband Lairenhanjaba Leikai, assistant aid of K.K.Mangang.
They were arrested from their hideouts in Delhi on January 17. A case has been registered and presently they are in Delhi Police custody.
Two other hardcore leaders of KCP, Naorem Brojen alias James alias City Meitei alias Hobi, 32, son of N. Nara Singh of Tentha Khunou Bazar Naorem Leikai, Thoubal District and Naorem Romesh Singh, 31, son of N. Manihar of Tentha Khunou Bazar Naorem Leikai, Thoubal District, at present residing in Lamboi Khongnangkhong, Imphal West District were also arrested from their hideouts in Bangalore on January 19 and brought to Imphal today. A case has been registered against him by the police.
Among those who carried a press identity card was Amumacha, the KCP president elect. He had a valid Sub-Editor I-card of Kangleipak Meir, the police statement had said.
The other arrested man who had a press identity card in his possession was Ngarianbam Ratan. He had a reporter`s card of Meeyam morning daily, according to the police.
Manipur Governor seeks impact report on employees' strike
Imphal, Jan 24 : STRESSING THE need for keeping the government departments functioning and not to hamper the services to the general public, Manipur Governor, Gurbachan Jagat has asked the Chief Secretary to submit a report on the impact of the agitation launched by the government employees on the functioning of the departments, official source said today.
On the other hand, the cease-work strike of the employees of the Manipur government has entered 57th day today.
The strike was launched on November 27 last year.
The agitation of the employees under the banner of the Joint Administrative Council, an apex body of the employees of the Manipur government of different departments has paralysed the working in various departments except the secretariat services.
The employees of the secretariat services, which are the backbone of the state administration, are yet to join the strike even though they had already warned of joining the strike if the state government delayed in fulfilling the demands of the employees.
The JAC launched the strike demanding implementation of the recommendation of the 6th Pay Commission in favour of the state government employees.
Referring to the newspaper reports on the state of the working of the various departments of the government being paralysed as a result of the ongoing cease-work strike by the employees, the Governor wanted to keep the government departments functioning so that the "benefits due to the general public are not hampered," said a communiqu� of the secretary to Governor, RK Nimai sent to Chief Secretary, Rakesh asking him to submit a report on the impact of the employees' agitation on the functioning of the departments.
In the report, the attendance of the staff, number of departments affected etc.
should be stated as desire by the Governor, the intimation of the secretary to Governor said.
Following the received of the communiqu� from the Raj Bhavan, chief secretary has directed all the principal secretary/commissioners, secretaries, all deputy commissioners to submit report of impacts of the strike in their respective departments at the earliest without fail, the source said.
The employees of the state government have been on cease-work strike demanding implementation of the recommendation of the Centre's sixth pay commission to its employees.
Mention may be made that with employees under the aegis of the Joint Administrative Council (JAC) of All Mainpur Trade Unions Council (AMTUC) and All Manipur Govt.
Employees Organisation (AMGEO) have started launching cease work strike from November 27 after its week long pen down strike ended on November 26 .
Currently, employees joining the strike are also staging sit-in protest in series at their respective office premises.
Employees of the state transport department staged the sit-in protest today in front of its office at Bapupara.
The sit-in protest will stage till January 31 which the JAC is likely to announce another form of agitation if there bring about agreement till date.
On the other hand, the cease-work strike of the employees of the Manipur government has entered 57th day today.
The strike was launched on November 27 last year.
The agitation of the employees under the banner of the Joint Administrative Council, an apex body of the employees of the Manipur government of different departments has paralysed the working in various departments except the secretariat services.
The employees of the secretariat services, which are the backbone of the state administration, are yet to join the strike even though they had already warned of joining the strike if the state government delayed in fulfilling the demands of the employees.
The JAC launched the strike demanding implementation of the recommendation of the 6th Pay Commission in favour of the state government employees.
Referring to the newspaper reports on the state of the working of the various departments of the government being paralysed as a result of the ongoing cease-work strike by the employees, the Governor wanted to keep the government departments functioning so that the "benefits due to the general public are not hampered," said a communiqu� of the secretary to Governor, RK Nimai sent to Chief Secretary, Rakesh asking him to submit a report on the impact of the employees' agitation on the functioning of the departments.
In the report, the attendance of the staff, number of departments affected etc.
should be stated as desire by the Governor, the intimation of the secretary to Governor said.
Following the received of the communiqu� from the Raj Bhavan, chief secretary has directed all the principal secretary/commissioners, secretaries, all deputy commissioners to submit report of impacts of the strike in their respective departments at the earliest without fail, the source said.
The employees of the state government have been on cease-work strike demanding implementation of the recommendation of the Centre's sixth pay commission to its employees.
Mention may be made that with employees under the aegis of the Joint Administrative Council (JAC) of All Mainpur Trade Unions Council (AMTUC) and All Manipur Govt.
Employees Organisation (AMGEO) have started launching cease work strike from November 27 after its week long pen down strike ended on November 26 .
Currently, employees joining the strike are also staging sit-in protest in series at their respective office premises.
Employees of the state transport department staged the sit-in protest today in front of its office at Bapupara.
The sit-in protest will stage till January 31 which the JAC is likely to announce another form of agitation if there bring about agreement till date.
Saturday Leader/Walking the HIV/AIDS tightrope
Source: Leader writer : Chitra Ahanthem
The initiative taken up by the Manipur Network of Positive People to provide a comprehensive package of education, nutrition and medical support for forty children affected by HIV/AIDS is a welcome relief for many parents who cannot afford to send their wards to school, burdened by the costs of their own treatments and a succor to the guardians left in charge of children whose parents have died of HIV/AIDS. And yet, for each one of the forty children who got the said support from the MNP+ led initiative, there are many others who have not got the support that is due to them. This, in many ways reflects the failure of the way HIV/AIDS related programs have been in place in the country. The buzz words for the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) backed programs have been on “high risk groups” for which “intervention programs” are designed. This means then that when the decision makers were setting out programs, they were looking only at
injecting drug users, migrant workers, sex workers and commercial sex workers. This meant then that nobody was looking at addressing issues and needs of the spouses and sexual partners of the said populations and their offspring. The entry of bilateral donor agencies in the state did address some needs of children affected by HIV/AIDS but comprehensive education support remained elusive. Yet, the basic premise of this initiative being needed reflects too well the deplorable environment of education that exists around us today.
The Sarva Siksha Abhiyaan under the Government of India aims at providing free education to children till the age of 14 years. The scheme has provisions for free school textbooks along with a mid day meal for students in Government schools but in Manipur, parents have more faith in private schools on one hand while on the other, the implementation of the said scheme leaves little to be desired. The preference for private schools stems from the quality of teaching imparted at Government schools and it is no matter of irony that parents teaching at Government schools send their children to private schools. Children belonging to the hill districts are worse off since there are less private schools. The MNP+ led initiative addresses the needs of forty children affected by HIV/AIDS but what of the others who are affected and what of children who are not affected by HIV/AIDS?
The 17th International AIDS Conference in Mexico City in August 2008 brought many voices from certain countries in Africa who said that the attention by various international donors to the needs of children affected by HIV/AIDS created a segregation of sorts between “NGO children” and “non-NGO children”. The “NGO children” would be the ones who would get some benefit or the other while the later would be the ones who needed those services just as well but did not get it because he/she was not infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Many people who had worked in various African countries talked of the subtle division among children who were in dire need of education, health, nutrition and medication out of which, only those affected by HIV/AIDS had opportunities to have them addressed. There was also a strong message resonating at the Mexico Conference about the need to focus on family units as a whole while rendering HIV/AIDS related services
instead of a male member (father) going to a particular service center; a female member (mother) going to another and the child being taken to yet another place. These voices from Africa has special meaning for Manipur considering the extent of similarities: the ravages of conflict (armed, ethnic) in both settings have impacted health and educational institutions besides fracturing the economic situation of the people. HIV/AIDS has only added its own dimension to failing institutions and breaking apart mechanisms that need to be in place for their redressal.
There must be a strong resolve by the Government to look at appropriate measures in terms of the educational needs of children living in the state. There is no doubt a series of “consultations” organized by various departments and agencies, the latest being the one organized by the Manipur Women Commission on the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and children. What is required are not consultations in name but an action process that addresses the needs of the HIV /AIDS affected and infected populations. The call at this hour would be an appraisal of what has been talked about till now and then to walk that talk.
The initiative taken up by the Manipur Network of Positive People to provide a comprehensive package of education, nutrition and medical support for forty children affected by HIV/AIDS is a welcome relief for many parents who cannot afford to send their wards to school, burdened by the costs of their own treatments and a succor to the guardians left in charge of children whose parents have died of HIV/AIDS. And yet, for each one of the forty children who got the said support from the MNP+ led initiative, there are many others who have not got the support that is due to them. This, in many ways reflects the failure of the way HIV/AIDS related programs have been in place in the country. The buzz words for the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) backed programs have been on “high risk groups” for which “intervention programs” are designed. This means then that when the decision makers were setting out programs, they were looking only at
injecting drug users, migrant workers, sex workers and commercial sex workers. This meant then that nobody was looking at addressing issues and needs of the spouses and sexual partners of the said populations and their offspring. The entry of bilateral donor agencies in the state did address some needs of children affected by HIV/AIDS but comprehensive education support remained elusive. Yet, the basic premise of this initiative being needed reflects too well the deplorable environment of education that exists around us today.
The Sarva Siksha Abhiyaan under the Government of India aims at providing free education to children till the age of 14 years. The scheme has provisions for free school textbooks along with a mid day meal for students in Government schools but in Manipur, parents have more faith in private schools on one hand while on the other, the implementation of the said scheme leaves little to be desired. The preference for private schools stems from the quality of teaching imparted at Government schools and it is no matter of irony that parents teaching at Government schools send their children to private schools. Children belonging to the hill districts are worse off since there are less private schools. The MNP+ led initiative addresses the needs of forty children affected by HIV/AIDS but what of the others who are affected and what of children who are not affected by HIV/AIDS?
The 17th International AIDS Conference in Mexico City in August 2008 brought many voices from certain countries in Africa who said that the attention by various international donors to the needs of children affected by HIV/AIDS created a segregation of sorts between “NGO children” and “non-NGO children”. The “NGO children” would be the ones who would get some benefit or the other while the later would be the ones who needed those services just as well but did not get it because he/she was not infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Many people who had worked in various African countries talked of the subtle division among children who were in dire need of education, health, nutrition and medication out of which, only those affected by HIV/AIDS had opportunities to have them addressed. There was also a strong message resonating at the Mexico Conference about the need to focus on family units as a whole while rendering HIV/AIDS related services
instead of a male member (father) going to a particular service center; a female member (mother) going to another and the child being taken to yet another place. These voices from Africa has special meaning for Manipur considering the extent of similarities: the ravages of conflict (armed, ethnic) in both settings have impacted health and educational institutions besides fracturing the economic situation of the people. HIV/AIDS has only added its own dimension to failing institutions and breaking apart mechanisms that need to be in place for their redressal.
There must be a strong resolve by the Government to look at appropriate measures in terms of the educational needs of children living in the state. There is no doubt a series of “consultations” organized by various departments and agencies, the latest being the one organized by the Manipur Women Commission on the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and children. What is required are not consultations in name but an action process that addresses the needs of the HIV /AIDS affected and infected populations. The call at this hour would be an appraisal of what has been talked about till now and then to walk that talk.
A Myth Called “Divide and Rule”?
The British are said to have nurtured a communal divide in India to rule India easily. Though divide and rule is a consistent method of conquest, especially in Africa, where Europeans favored one side against another, in the end ruling both. But in India, where it was most prominent, given the partition of the India and Pakistan in 1947, I find the picture to be far murkier.
It was near the end of the first Elizabethan era of England. On 31 December 1600, the Queen of England and Ireland granted a royal charter to group of merchants to trade in the shores of the far off Indian subcontinent. The route to India had been opened a century ago by the adventures of Vasco da Gama. Spice trade from India had always been routed through the far reaching arms of the Ottomans, Venice or the Habsburgs. Vasco da Gama gave the other Europeans a quicker way to spice. The Portuguese, Vasco’s countrymen, were the first off the blocks. By the start of the sixteenth century, they had established bases in the states of Kerala, Goa and Mumbai. Being true Catholics, they propogated their religion (Probably explains why most Indian Christians are Roman Catholics). Wait, I am digressing here.
The Company of Merchants of London Trading into the East Indies, as they were initially called, set sail to India to bring spice to the British Isles. When the British East India Company came to India they faced opposition from their European counterparts, Portuguese and French. But things improved when the British Crown made a commercial treaty with the Indian Mughal Emperor, Jahangir. Also, the Portuguese, now part of the much larger, Spanish Kingdom (albeit ruled by mostly impotent rulers), which had huge gold reserves in their American provinces, did not find India much attractive. With dwindling Portuguese interest and support of the strongest of the Indian Kingdoms, British East India Company flourished.
India, like always, was a region divided into many kingdoms. The Mughals, in the north, were the strongest of them all. In Central India, they were the five Deccan Sultanates, remnants of the older Bahmani Sultanate – Bijapur, Golkonda, Ahmadnagar, Bidar and Berar. Down south were the remnants of the Vijayanagara Kingdom, which fell apart in the disastrous Battle of Talikota in 1565. Though the Vijayanagara King still exercised control over the south (It ends in 1646), it was largely nominal, with the provinces more of less independent. In the north-east was the dynasty of Ahom. There were probably other smaller kingdoms as well.
By the time British East India Company established themselves in India, Berar was assimilated by the Mughals and Bidar by Bijapur. So in all, India was divided between the Mughals in the North, Bijapur, Golkonda and Ahmadnagar in the Centre, Ahom in the North East and in the South – the remaining Vijayanagara Kingdom, their former subsidiaries – Mysore, Keladi Nayaks, Thanjavur Nayaks, Madurai Nayaks and Chitradurga Nayaks, and their former tributaries in Kerala – Samoothiri, Kochi and Thiruvithaamkoor. In all the Indian sub-continent was divided into thirteen nations. Later the Mughal Kingdon would first conquer the remaining Deccan Sultanates and fall apart by the beginning of the eighteenth century. The Maratha Empire replaced the Mughals as the powerful empire in the north, though they also fell apart and divided into numerous principalities.
After the Battles of Plassey (1757) and Buxar (1764), the British East India Company would usher in British rule over India till 1947, when India was partitioned into two – India and Pakistan.
Okay, done with the History lesson. To put it in short. When the British came to India, India was divided into at least thirteen different nations. By the time they came to power there were much more. When they left, there were just two. So, where is the divide and rule? In fact, British did something that no Indian had ever been able to before (outside mythology). Unite India under a single banner (Note that the princely states were subsidiaries to the British Empire, which acknowledged their overlordship, similar to the Holy Roman Empire and German princes)
The impression about a policy of “Divide and Rule” arises from the belief that the British intentionally divided India on religious grounds, (after uniting it regionally). So, I thought I’d look at the times the British made attempts to do so. In case I have missed out anything, please give me the details.
The first thing that came to my mind was the Partition of Bengal.
The first decade of the twentieth saw many controversial policies by the British regime. The first was the Partition of Bengal. Bengal, at the time, included the states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Orissa in today’s India and Bangladesh. The state had a population of around 85 million people, hosted the national capital and the center of the intelligentsia. It is difficult to govern such a huge chunk of people from one place. So, the Governor General chose to split the state in the middle. Unfortunately for him, the split divided the state at a religious level, with the west 16% Muslim and the east 58%. Seen as an excuse to divide the nation by religion, it led to mass protest throughout the nation, with people of all religion uniting together. The partition was reversed later in 1911 and instead Kolkata and the narrow strip of area that now forms West Bengal were added to the earlier East Bengal. The western parts were devolved into a different state. Oddly enough, the addition of Kolkata to East Bengal garnered no negative opinion. The Partition can also not be seen as a case of divide and rule, since it in fact united all religions and had to be repealed to in wake of strong national sentiment.
The second act of “Divide and Rule” was reservation.
After the fiasco of 1857, the British encouraged India self rule. In 1885, Indian National Congress was formed under the auspices of the British Governor General to bring out pro British elite British education Indians to bring some semblance of self rule in India. Instead, it provided to be fertile grounds of Indian nationalism against the British. By the start of the twentieth century, Congress was divided into two factions – the extremists (led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak) and the moderates (led by Gopala Krishna Gokhale). There was also a concern among the Muslims that the Hindu dominated Congress may ignore them. The wikipedia article on Bal Gangadhar Tilak has clubbed him as a part of “Hindu Politics” series, suggesting he was a staunch Hindu and could have been a source of the concern among the Muslim. However, since the article also mentioned he chose Muhammad Ali Jinnah to defend him in court, it suggests he had no ill-feeling towards Muslims. (Do correct me, if I am wrong). However, these concerns were met in the Government of India Act 1909 (Also known as the Minto-Morley Reforms) which gave reservation to the Muslim minority in order to safeguard them from the Hindu majority. On paper, it seems fine, since our nation follows a much maligned form the same reservation by extending to many more categories of people. But this reservation would lead to strife between the two religions till the end of British rule.
I have tried to find more influences of the British with regards to religiously divide India, but have come to no avail. If it is these two instances that caused a religious divide in our country during independence, then the fault lies directly on our grandparents who lived during that time. Reservations were asked for by Indian politicians because of the genuine concerns of the Indian people (Minority interests are something that every nation seek to protect). Post independence, the problem has been compounded by extending it to many more minorities. It seems more in the interest of the nation’s politicians to keep a policy of “Divide and Rule” in effect. If somebody asks me, about the British Divide and Rule policy, I would say it was purely “Made in India”.
It was near the end of the first Elizabethan era of England. On 31 December 1600, the Queen of England and Ireland granted a royal charter to group of merchants to trade in the shores of the far off Indian subcontinent. The route to India had been opened a century ago by the adventures of Vasco da Gama. Spice trade from India had always been routed through the far reaching arms of the Ottomans, Venice or the Habsburgs. Vasco da Gama gave the other Europeans a quicker way to spice. The Portuguese, Vasco’s countrymen, were the first off the blocks. By the start of the sixteenth century, they had established bases in the states of Kerala, Goa and Mumbai. Being true Catholics, they propogated their religion (Probably explains why most Indian Christians are Roman Catholics). Wait, I am digressing here.
The Company of Merchants of London Trading into the East Indies, as they were initially called, set sail to India to bring spice to the British Isles. When the British East India Company came to India they faced opposition from their European counterparts, Portuguese and French. But things improved when the British Crown made a commercial treaty with the Indian Mughal Emperor, Jahangir. Also, the Portuguese, now part of the much larger, Spanish Kingdom (albeit ruled by mostly impotent rulers), which had huge gold reserves in their American provinces, did not find India much attractive. With dwindling Portuguese interest and support of the strongest of the Indian Kingdoms, British East India Company flourished.
India, like always, was a region divided into many kingdoms. The Mughals, in the north, were the strongest of them all. In Central India, they were the five Deccan Sultanates, remnants of the older Bahmani Sultanate – Bijapur, Golkonda, Ahmadnagar, Bidar and Berar. Down south were the remnants of the Vijayanagara Kingdom, which fell apart in the disastrous Battle of Talikota in 1565. Though the Vijayanagara King still exercised control over the south (It ends in 1646), it was largely nominal, with the provinces more of less independent. In the north-east was the dynasty of Ahom. There were probably other smaller kingdoms as well.
By the time British East India Company established themselves in India, Berar was assimilated by the Mughals and Bidar by Bijapur. So in all, India was divided between the Mughals in the North, Bijapur, Golkonda and Ahmadnagar in the Centre, Ahom in the North East and in the South – the remaining Vijayanagara Kingdom, their former subsidiaries – Mysore, Keladi Nayaks, Thanjavur Nayaks, Madurai Nayaks and Chitradurga Nayaks, and their former tributaries in Kerala – Samoothiri, Kochi and Thiruvithaamkoor. In all the Indian sub-continent was divided into thirteen nations. Later the Mughal Kingdon would first conquer the remaining Deccan Sultanates and fall apart by the beginning of the eighteenth century. The Maratha Empire replaced the Mughals as the powerful empire in the north, though they also fell apart and divided into numerous principalities.
After the Battles of Plassey (1757) and Buxar (1764), the British East India Company would usher in British rule over India till 1947, when India was partitioned into two – India and Pakistan.
Okay, done with the History lesson. To put it in short. When the British came to India, India was divided into at least thirteen different nations. By the time they came to power there were much more. When they left, there were just two. So, where is the divide and rule? In fact, British did something that no Indian had ever been able to before (outside mythology). Unite India under a single banner (Note that the princely states were subsidiaries to the British Empire, which acknowledged their overlordship, similar to the Holy Roman Empire and German princes)
The impression about a policy of “Divide and Rule” arises from the belief that the British intentionally divided India on religious grounds, (after uniting it regionally). So, I thought I’d look at the times the British made attempts to do so. In case I have missed out anything, please give me the details.
The first thing that came to my mind was the Partition of Bengal.
The first decade of the twentieth saw many controversial policies by the British regime. The first was the Partition of Bengal. Bengal, at the time, included the states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Orissa in today’s India and Bangladesh. The state had a population of around 85 million people, hosted the national capital and the center of the intelligentsia. It is difficult to govern such a huge chunk of people from one place. So, the Governor General chose to split the state in the middle. Unfortunately for him, the split divided the state at a religious level, with the west 16% Muslim and the east 58%. Seen as an excuse to divide the nation by religion, it led to mass protest throughout the nation, with people of all religion uniting together. The partition was reversed later in 1911 and instead Kolkata and the narrow strip of area that now forms West Bengal were added to the earlier East Bengal. The western parts were devolved into a different state. Oddly enough, the addition of Kolkata to East Bengal garnered no negative opinion. The Partition can also not be seen as a case of divide and rule, since it in fact united all religions and had to be repealed to in wake of strong national sentiment.
The second act of “Divide and Rule” was reservation.
After the fiasco of 1857, the British encouraged India self rule. In 1885, Indian National Congress was formed under the auspices of the British Governor General to bring out pro British elite British education Indians to bring some semblance of self rule in India. Instead, it provided to be fertile grounds of Indian nationalism against the British. By the start of the twentieth century, Congress was divided into two factions – the extremists (led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak) and the moderates (led by Gopala Krishna Gokhale). There was also a concern among the Muslims that the Hindu dominated Congress may ignore them. The wikipedia article on Bal Gangadhar Tilak has clubbed him as a part of “Hindu Politics” series, suggesting he was a staunch Hindu and could have been a source of the concern among the Muslim. However, since the article also mentioned he chose Muhammad Ali Jinnah to defend him in court, it suggests he had no ill-feeling towards Muslims. (Do correct me, if I am wrong). However, these concerns were met in the Government of India Act 1909 (Also known as the Minto-Morley Reforms) which gave reservation to the Muslim minority in order to safeguard them from the Hindu majority. On paper, it seems fine, since our nation follows a much maligned form the same reservation by extending to many more categories of people. But this reservation would lead to strife between the two religions till the end of British rule.
I have tried to find more influences of the British with regards to religiously divide India, but have come to no avail. If it is these two instances that caused a religious divide in our country during independence, then the fault lies directly on our grandparents who lived during that time. Reservations were asked for by Indian politicians because of the genuine concerns of the Indian people (Minority interests are something that every nation seek to protect). Post independence, the problem has been compounded by extending it to many more minorities. It seems more in the interest of the nation’s politicians to keep a policy of “Divide and Rule” in effect. If somebody asks me, about the British Divide and Rule policy, I would say it was purely “Made in India”.
India Weather Report
Jan 23(Reuters) - Following is the weather report detailed by
India
CHIEF FEATURES (Based on 0830 hours IST observations)
A western disturbance is likely to affect western
Himalayan region during next 2-3 days. Isolated to scattered
rain/thundershowers are also likely over plains of northwest
India on 24th and 25th January.
Fog/shallow fog condition prevailed over parts of East
Uttar Pradesh, North Bihar and West Assam. It is likely to
continue mainly in morning hours during next 1-2 days.
The minimum temperatures are above normal by 4-6°C over
parts of northwest & west India. Current Meteorological
conditions suggest that minimum temperatures are likely to
increase by another 1-2° C over northwest and adjoining central
India during next 48 hours and decrease thereafter.
Forecast valid upto 0830 hours IST of 26th January, 2009
LOCAL WEATHER REPORT:
---------------------
Departure
Departure
Max Temp from Normal Min Temp from
Normal 24 Hour
--------------Deg Celcius--------------
Rainfall
(MM)
------ ----------- --------
----------- -------- New Delhi 22.4 1.0
12.0 4.0
0.0 Mumbai 35.8 5.0
18.6 3.0
0.0 Chennai 30.6 2.0
18.4 -3.0
0.0 Kolkata 26.8 0.0
14.9 1.0
0.0 Ahmedabad 30.4 1.0
16.3 4.0
0.0 Bangalore 29.5 0.0
15.2 2.0
0.0 Bhopal 26.0 0.0
11.0 1.0
0.0 Bhubaneshwar 31.6 3.0
17.8 2.0
0.0 Chandigarh 19.8 0.0
11.4 5.0
0.0 Dehradun 20.8 2.0
10.0 4.0
0.0 Goa 34.4 3.0
19.7 0.0
0.0 Guwahati 22.5 -1.0
15.3 5.0
0.0 Hyderabad 33.0 4.0
16.8 2.0
0.0 Jaipur 25.4 3.0
12.4 4.0
0.0 Lucknow 22.5 0.0
9.6 2.0
0.0 Nagpur 33.0 4.0
12.1 -1.0
0.0 Patna 22.4 -2.0
12.1 2.0
0.0 Pune 30.9 1.0
11.8 1.0
0.0 Srinagar 12.2 7.0
0.5 1.0
0.0 Thiruvananthapurm 32.9 2.0
20.8 -1.0
0.0 Raipur 31.2 3.0
14.7 1.0
0.0 Shimla 17.8 9.0
11.6 10.0
0.0 Ranchi 24.5 2.0
9.2 -2.0
0.0
NORTHWEST INDIA
[J & K, H. P., UTTARAKHAND, PUNJAB, HARYANA , DELHI, WEST
UP]
Isolated rain/snow is likely over Jammu & Kashmir and
Himachal Pradesh during next 24 hours and many places
thereafter.
Isolated rain/snow is likely over Uttrakhand after 24
hours.
Rain/thundershowers are likely at a few places over Punjab
and isolated over north Haryana and Chandigarh from tomorrow
night onwards.
Mainly dry weather is likely over the rest region.
EAST INDIA
[EAST UP, JHARKHAND, BIHAR, ORISSA,, WEST BENGAL & SIKKIM
]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
NORTHEAST INDIA
[Arunachal Pradesh, NMM& T, Assam, Meghalaya,]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
SOUTH INDIA
[TN, AP, KERALA,, KARNATAKA, LAKSHADWEEP, ANDAMAN &
NICOBAR ISLANDS]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
WEST INDIA
[GOA, MAHARASHTRA (OTHER THAN VIDARBHA), GUJARAT,
RAJASTHAN]
Isolated rain/thundershowers are likely over west
Rajasthan from tomorrow onwards.
Mainly dry weather is likely over the rest region.
CENTRAL INDIA
[M.P, CHHATTISGARH, VIDARBHA]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
Weather Outlook from 0830 hrs IST of 26th January, 2009 to
0830 hrs IST of 28th January, 2009. (Based on numerical
weather products):
Decrease in precipitation activity and fall in minimum
temperatures is likely over northwest India.
Scattered rain/thundershowers are likely over Arunachal
Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya. Note: 'TRACE' means that rain
fell but there was not enough rainfall to measure.
India
CHIEF FEATURES (Based on 0830 hours IST observations)
A western disturbance is likely to affect western
Himalayan region during next 2-3 days. Isolated to scattered
rain/thundershowers are also likely over plains of northwest
India on 24th and 25th January.
Fog/shallow fog condition prevailed over parts of East
Uttar Pradesh, North Bihar and West Assam. It is likely to
continue mainly in morning hours during next 1-2 days.
The minimum temperatures are above normal by 4-6°C over
parts of northwest & west India. Current Meteorological
conditions suggest that minimum temperatures are likely to
increase by another 1-2° C over northwest and adjoining central
India during next 48 hours and decrease thereafter.
Forecast valid upto 0830 hours IST of 26th January, 2009
LOCAL WEATHER REPORT:
---------------------
Departure
Departure
Max Temp from Normal Min Temp from
Normal 24 Hour
--------------Deg Celcius--------------
Rainfall
(MM)
------ ----------- --------
----------- -------- New Delhi 22.4 1.0
12.0 4.0
0.0 Mumbai 35.8 5.0
18.6 3.0
0.0 Chennai 30.6 2.0
18.4 -3.0
0.0 Kolkata 26.8 0.0
14.9 1.0
0.0 Ahmedabad 30.4 1.0
16.3 4.0
0.0 Bangalore 29.5 0.0
15.2 2.0
0.0 Bhopal 26.0 0.0
11.0 1.0
0.0 Bhubaneshwar 31.6 3.0
17.8 2.0
0.0 Chandigarh 19.8 0.0
11.4 5.0
0.0 Dehradun 20.8 2.0
10.0 4.0
0.0 Goa 34.4 3.0
19.7 0.0
0.0 Guwahati 22.5 -1.0
15.3 5.0
0.0 Hyderabad 33.0 4.0
16.8 2.0
0.0 Jaipur 25.4 3.0
12.4 4.0
0.0 Lucknow 22.5 0.0
9.6 2.0
0.0 Nagpur 33.0 4.0
12.1 -1.0
0.0 Patna 22.4 -2.0
12.1 2.0
0.0 Pune 30.9 1.0
11.8 1.0
0.0 Srinagar 12.2 7.0
0.5 1.0
0.0 Thiruvananthapurm 32.9 2.0
20.8 -1.0
0.0 Raipur 31.2 3.0
14.7 1.0
0.0 Shimla 17.8 9.0
11.6 10.0
0.0 Ranchi 24.5 2.0
9.2 -2.0
0.0
NORTHWEST INDIA
[J & K, H. P., UTTARAKHAND, PUNJAB, HARYANA , DELHI, WEST
UP]
Isolated rain/snow is likely over Jammu & Kashmir and
Himachal Pradesh during next 24 hours and many places
thereafter.
Isolated rain/snow is likely over Uttrakhand after 24
hours.
Rain/thundershowers are likely at a few places over Punjab
and isolated over north Haryana and Chandigarh from tomorrow
night onwards.
Mainly dry weather is likely over the rest region.
EAST INDIA
[EAST UP, JHARKHAND, BIHAR, ORISSA,, WEST BENGAL & SIKKIM
]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
NORTHEAST INDIA
[Arunachal Pradesh, NMM& T, Assam, Meghalaya,]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
SOUTH INDIA
[TN, AP, KERALA,, KARNATAKA, LAKSHADWEEP, ANDAMAN &
NICOBAR ISLANDS]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
WEST INDIA
[GOA, MAHARASHTRA (OTHER THAN VIDARBHA), GUJARAT,
RAJASTHAN]
Isolated rain/thundershowers are likely over west
Rajasthan from tomorrow onwards.
Mainly dry weather is likely over the rest region.
CENTRAL INDIA
[M.P, CHHATTISGARH, VIDARBHA]
Mainly dry weather is likely over the region.
Weather Outlook from 0830 hrs IST of 26th January, 2009 to
0830 hrs IST of 28th January, 2009. (Based on numerical
weather products):
Decrease in precipitation activity and fall in minimum
temperatures is likely over northwest India.
Scattered rain/thundershowers are likely over Arunachal
Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya. Note: 'TRACE' means that rain
fell but there was not enough rainfall to measure.
Public meeting held at Khuman Lampak on killing
IMPHAL, Jan 23 : A Public meeting was held today afternoon at Raising Athletic Union Sports Complex, Khuman lampak and a Relay was organised regarding the killing of P. Kunjabihari @ Abung age 35 years son of late P. Pishak Singh of Lairikyengbam Makha Leikai and N. Anand Singh age 37 years son of late N. Lala Singh of Top Moirangkampu Makha Leikai by combined forces and Imphal west district commando at Kanglatombi Makhan road on 21 January 09.
In the meeting a Joint Action Committee against the brutal killing of P. Kunjabihari @ Abung has been formed. Many resolution has been taken, Submitting memorandum to the Chief Minister and Local MLA which includes Judicial inquiry and punishment to the responsible police personals, Ex-gratia to the family, suitable job to the family and if government fails to take up steps regarding the killing a strong agitation will continue.
According to the family members P. Memcha sister of Kunjabihari said that they went out in afternoon to passed out the bill cheque for contract works on that day and at present his wife P Anju Devi is being conceive, he is having a daughter.
She further pray that this may be the last in Manipur and asked the culprit to give punishment.
Meanwhile the family and locality of N. Anand Singh condemn the killing and police blocked the relay which came to give memorandum to Chief Minister.
His wife N. Adina Devi said that his husband is a normal person earned his living by driving auto and he has 2 daughter.
In the meeting a Joint Action Committee against the brutal killing of P. Kunjabihari @ Abung has been formed. Many resolution has been taken, Submitting memorandum to the Chief Minister and Local MLA which includes Judicial inquiry and punishment to the responsible police personals, Ex-gratia to the family, suitable job to the family and if government fails to take up steps regarding the killing a strong agitation will continue.
According to the family members P. Memcha sister of Kunjabihari said that they went out in afternoon to passed out the bill cheque for contract works on that day and at present his wife P Anju Devi is being conceive, he is having a daughter.
She further pray that this may be the last in Manipur and asked the culprit to give punishment.
Meanwhile the family and locality of N. Anand Singh condemn the killing and police blocked the relay which came to give memorandum to Chief Minister.
His wife N. Adina Devi said that his husband is a normal person earned his living by driving auto and he has 2 daughter.
MPLF reiterates Republid Day boycott call
IMPHAL, Jan 23 : The Manipur People`s Liberation Front, MPLF, a federation of some major underground organisations in Manipur has reiterated its commitment to enforce the general strike on Republic Day in Manipur as per the joint declaration by MPLF, KLO, TPDF and ULFA to have a general strike throughout the Northeast on the day.
A press release by the MPLF said the strike is to begin at 1am on January 26 and conclude the same day afternoon at 6pm.
The release called upon the people to stay indoors, all classes of vehicles not to ply, businesses to close, cinemas to suspend shows, any kind of celebrations to stop and airlines to drop services for the day.
All untoward incidents resulting from non compliance should be treated as self-invited, the release warned.
The release however exempted the media, medical services and water supply from the purview of the strike. It also exempted protest demonstration against the oppressive rule in the state.
It said the chaos and mayhem in Manipur and the northeast region is on account of the imposition of the Indian constitution over 58 years ago in the region.
A press release by the MPLF said the strike is to begin at 1am on January 26 and conclude the same day afternoon at 6pm.
The release called upon the people to stay indoors, all classes of vehicles not to ply, businesses to close, cinemas to suspend shows, any kind of celebrations to stop and airlines to drop services for the day.
All untoward incidents resulting from non compliance should be treated as self-invited, the release warned.
The release however exempted the media, medical services and water supply from the purview of the strike. It also exempted protest demonstration against the oppressive rule in the state.
It said the chaos and mayhem in Manipur and the northeast region is on account of the imposition of the Indian constitution over 58 years ago in the region.
Uchekon claim men’s title
| South Eastern succumb to 4-2 loss | ||
| Thongju hockey | ||
Uchekon Youth Athletic Club claimed the men’s hockey title of the 1st Thongju Kendra Sports Festival 2009. In the final match played today, Uchekon Youth Athletic Club defeated South Eastern Youth Organisation by 4-2 goals to emerge the winner, while the latter had to settle for the runners-up title. The trophy will be distributed after the completion of all the other events in the festival. Uchekon Youth Athletic Club should have won the match with a better goal margin, but they missed two penalty strokes of the three they got in the match. Uchekon Youth Athletic Club ruled the first half of the match with an iron hand and adopted an attacking strategy to push their opponents South Eastern Youth Organisation on to the backfoot. Despite playing a defensive game, South Eastern failed to stop their marauding counterparts and Uchekon took the upper hand by pumping in two goals. M. Mirple Singh fetched the first field goal in the 28th minute to take the lead while M. Jeetendro Singh displayed a perfect execution of the penalty stroke in the 32nd minute before half-time. In the second half, there was a long lull with most of the action limiting itself to the midfield as South Eastern Youth Organisation finally found their rhythm to give Uchekon Youth a run for their money. However, P. Adeva Singh broke the deadlock netting the ball in the 52 minute to bring up the third Uchekon Youth goal. South Eastern Youth Organisation hit back with determination and broke the shackles in the 54th minute as Th. Sanjit Singh fetched his team the opening goal. However, within the next minute, Uchekon hammered in their fourth goal with N. Romesh Singh joining the party in the 55th minute. South Eastern got their second goal from a penalty stroke converted by Ksh. Nippo to tone down the score to 2-4 goal in the final hours of play. Uchekon got eight penalty corners while South Eastern Youth Organisation were awarded six, but none of them were converted by the teams today. |
ZSF strike affects normal life in Churachandpur
S Singlianmang Guite
Lamka, January 23 : Normal life in the second biggest township was affected since yesterday evening as Zomi Students' Federation imposed, in haze, an indefinite bandh on all business establishments except emergency services and transport.
The federation's swift move mid-day was an off-shoot of the identification of the dead man retrieved near the Khuga River on Tuesday at New Zoveng.
Identified as Jamkhothong of B Phaipham, and a father of two with dual spouse, the federation has been maintaining that he was done to death without any fault of his and demands an instant reaction from the Government.
With the student union backed by Zomi Council, still insistent on their demands during the talks held today at the DC official chamber normal life was affected in the entire township for the second consecutive day, today.
Assurance given by the district administration later in the day moments before the deadline of the student body and Zomi Council expires, however saves the situation heading for worse.
S Kapkhanmuan, ZSF president who was elated over the support of various student bodies in the district on the issue said the Government has promised to book the perpetrators of the crime at the earliest and agree to compensate the bereaved family according to the Government's standing orders.
Any form of imposition announced following the agitation was withdrawn later today with immediate effect from the government making their assurance formal, he said.
The federation's swift move mid-day was an off-shoot of the identification of the dead man retrieved near the Khuga River on Tuesday at New Zoveng.
Identified as Jamkhothong of B Phaipham, and a father of two with dual spouse, the federation has been maintaining that he was done to death without any fault of his and demands an instant reaction from the Government.
With the student union backed by Zomi Council, still insistent on their demands during the talks held today at the DC official chamber normal life was affected in the entire township for the second consecutive day, today.
Assurance given by the district administration later in the day moments before the deadline of the student body and Zomi Council expires, however saves the situation heading for worse.
S Kapkhanmuan, ZSF president who was elated over the support of various student bodies in the district on the issue said the Government has promised to book the perpetrators of the crime at the earliest and agree to compensate the bereaved family according to the Government's standing orders.
Any form of imposition announced following the agitation was withdrawn later today with immediate effect from the government making their assurance formal, he said.
Home >> Headlines "Hills yet to enjoy benefits of SAI, YAS"
Imphal, January 23 : Lok Sabha MP Mani Charenamei has stated that youths of hill districts are yet to enjoy any benefit from Sports Authority of India and Department of Youth Affairs and Sports even as the two bodies have taken up different programmes for development of sports and welfare of youths in the State.
The MP was speaking as chief guest at the opening ceremony of the 8th Barak Range Sports Meet 2009 at New Konphung, Tamei.
The opening ceremony was graced by Tamei A/C MLA Awangbow Newmai, Commanding Officer of 14 Mahar Tamei Col GS Sandhu and Mapi Council president Th Manihar as presidium members Mani Charenamei said that the sports meet will go a long way in building unity among the people settling along Barak range and speaking common language.
The sports meet will also provide a platform for interaction among youth and to show their sporting talents, he said.
Saying that the sports meet is a big step towards producing successful players, the MP noted that sports knows no difference between communities or religions.
He also assured all possible assistance for development of sports in the area.
While the youths in valley enjoy the advantage to practice sports in Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, the youths in hill districts are yet to enjoy any kind of sports infrastructure.
Even as SAI has been undertaking different schemes for development of sports, none of these schemes have reached any of the hill district till date, the MP asserted.
Observing that the Barak Range Sports Meet is neither in the form of a sports festival nor exactly fits in the category of a sports competition, Mani Charenamei called upon the organisers to rectify the mode of the sports meet so that the meet can serve as launching pad for prospective players.
Besides donating cash to the organising committee, the MP also distributed sports materials to teams coming from Nagaland, Assam and Manipur to participate in the sports meet.
GS Sandhu exuded that the sports meet will bring closer interaction among Naga tribes in addition to promoting sports in the hill districts.
Pledging that the Army would provide all possible assistance in education and sports, Col GS Sandhu also donated sports materials and first aid items to the organisers.
MAPI Council president Th Manihar also donated footballs, volleyballs, volleyball nets and Sepak Takraw balls to the organisers.
The sports meet which will have competitions in men's football, men's volley and women's volleyball is being participated by 20 teams from Assam, Nagaland and Manipur. As a part of the opening ceremony, a Sepak Takraw team from Imphal played an exhibition match.
This was followed by another exhibition football match between MAPI Council team and the champion team of the sports meet's last edition.
The MP was speaking as chief guest at the opening ceremony of the 8th Barak Range Sports Meet 2009 at New Konphung, Tamei.
The opening ceremony was graced by Tamei A/C MLA Awangbow Newmai, Commanding Officer of 14 Mahar Tamei Col GS Sandhu and Mapi Council president Th Manihar as presidium members Mani Charenamei said that the sports meet will go a long way in building unity among the people settling along Barak range and speaking common language.
The sports meet will also provide a platform for interaction among youth and to show their sporting talents, he said.
Saying that the sports meet is a big step towards producing successful players, the MP noted that sports knows no difference between communities or religions.
He also assured all possible assistance for development of sports in the area.
While the youths in valley enjoy the advantage to practice sports in Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, the youths in hill districts are yet to enjoy any kind of sports infrastructure.
Even as SAI has been undertaking different schemes for development of sports, none of these schemes have reached any of the hill district till date, the MP asserted.
Observing that the Barak Range Sports Meet is neither in the form of a sports festival nor exactly fits in the category of a sports competition, Mani Charenamei called upon the organisers to rectify the mode of the sports meet so that the meet can serve as launching pad for prospective players.
Besides donating cash to the organising committee, the MP also distributed sports materials to teams coming from Nagaland, Assam and Manipur to participate in the sports meet.
GS Sandhu exuded that the sports meet will bring closer interaction among Naga tribes in addition to promoting sports in the hill districts.
Pledging that the Army would provide all possible assistance in education and sports, Col GS Sandhu also donated sports materials and first aid items to the organisers.
MAPI Council president Th Manihar also donated footballs, volleyballs, volleyball nets and Sepak Takraw balls to the organisers.
The sports meet which will have competitions in men's football, men's volley and women's volleyball is being participated by 20 teams from Assam, Nagaland and Manipur. As a part of the opening ceremony, a Sepak Takraw team from Imphal played an exhibition match.
This was followed by another exhibition football match between MAPI Council team and the champion team of the sports meet's last edition.
SP asserts on killing
Imphal, January 23 In connection with the encounter between the combined force of Thoubal Police Commandos and 21 Assam Rifles and suspected militants at Wabagai Leirak Achouba on January 19 in which one suspected militant was killed, SP of Thoubal police Clay Khongsai has asserted that the slain has been confirmed to be a lieutenant of the proscribed KYKL.
In a statement made available to the press today, the SP informed that after identification by the family members and on checking the police record from the Special Cell of Imphal West, it has been confirmed that slain identified as Khumukcham Thoiba alias Tomba alias Jilla (46) s/o late Kh Sanahanba of Mahou Tera but staying at Japhou Bazar, Chandel was a lieutenant of the proscribed KYKL.
He was arrested earlier on February 21, 1993 under FIR No 46 (2) 93 LPL PS u/s 121/121-A IPC & 13 UA (P) A Act and gain on February 21, 1996 under FIR No.20(2) 1996 KCG PS u/s 121/121-A IPC & 20 UA (P) A Act, the SP explained.
In a statement made available to the press today, the SP informed that after identification by the family members and on checking the police record from the Special Cell of Imphal West, it has been confirmed that slain identified as Khumukcham Thoiba alias Tomba alias Jilla (46) s/o late Kh Sanahanba of Mahou Tera but staying at Japhou Bazar, Chandel was a lieutenant of the proscribed KYKL.
He was arrested earlier on February 21, 1993 under FIR No 46 (2) 93 LPL PS u/s 121/121-A IPC & 13 UA (P) A Act and gain on February 21, 1996 under FIR No.20(2) 1996 KCG PS u/s 121/121-A IPC & 20 UA (P) A Act, the SP explained.
Amnesty asks Israel to disclose weapons, munitions used in Gaza war
Jan 23Amnesty International on Friday asked Israel to disclose the weapons and munitions its forces used during the three week military offensive in Gaza which claimed over 1300 lives. Donatella Rovera, heading an Amnesty International investigation team in Gaza said they have got irrefutable evidence of the use of white phosphorous munitions used in built-up civilian areas.
He said that some victims of Israeli air strikes were brought in with charred and sharply severed limbs and doctors treating them need to know what weapons were used.
Earlier Israel refused to confirm that its troops had used white phosphorus.
White phosphorous particles embedded in the flesh can continue to burn, causing intense pain as the burns grow wider and deeper, and can result in irreparable damage to internal organs. It can contaminate other parts of the patient's body or even those treating the injuries
Pleasant morning for Delhi, mercury goes up
Jan 23Another pleasant morning greeted Delhiites on Friday with the minimum temperature remaining four notches above normal at 12 degrees Celsius.The Met Office said Friday's minimum was higher than Thursday's 11.3 degrees.
January this year has been warmer so far as compared to last year when the minimum dropped below five degrees a number of times. The season's lowest temperature was recorded on January 2 when the minimum dipped to four degrees.
The record for January's minimum temperature is on 16th of 1935 when the temperature fell to -0.6 degrees Celsius. The minimum in 2006 had slumped to 0.2 degrees Celsius.
Code of inquiry in massacre of AR personnel
Imphal, January 23 : ASSAM RIFLES today has ordered a code of inquiry into the incident of decamping a jawan with the service weapon issued to him after shooting to dead a JCO with five other personnel including a havildar Wednesday evening in interior Ukhrul district of Manipur even as manhunt operations has started launching in the entire hill district with security red alert to trace out the deserter jawan.
Inspector general has order a code of enquiry into the incident.
The operation to track down the decamped jawan is also in progress, said a source from the PRO of the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South) today.
A jawan of the 17 Assam Rifles by the name Sheneyi Medio, hailing from Nagaland state at first gunned down the JCO named Baldev Singh and later fired indiscriminately toward the post where other personnel are camping and immediately left the post with the AK rifles issued to him, the source said.
The jawan decamped only with the weapon (AK rifles) issued to him," the source revealed while clarifying that no other weapons carry away by him while running away.
Other personnel died in the discriminating firing were havildar Shamsu Chama, rifleman, W Islam, Diwas Singh, Bikash Kumar and Pritish Kumar.
The six personnel were on duty at the very outpost under the supervision of the JCO, the source said.
The source also ruled out possibility of the decamped jawan joining to a militant outfit stating soon after the shoot out incident, the entire hill area have been cordon off and manhunt operations have launched and till today operation in the jungles are in progress.
The incident occurred in the aftermath of a heated altercation between the decamped jawan and the JCO, Naib Subedar Baldev Singh, the in-charge of the AR manning a permanent check post on the road connecting the Ukhrul district headquarter with Kasom sub-division of the same district near the Kasom Khullen village.
The place is located some 17 kilometer from the hill district headquarter of Manipur which bordering with Nagaland on one side and with Myanmar.
Wednesday's incident is the sixth of which personnel of the Central security forces deploying in the state for counter insurgency killed their colleagues for one or other reason since 2005.The latest one occurred in July last year 2008 in which a jawan by the name Ashokumar of the Jammu and Kashmir Light shot dead a major Ankit Varandhwaj at one its post at Montuk in Chandel district.
In September 2005, a jawan of the 5th Assam Rifles killed four of his colleagues and wounded to one other following a heated argument inside the barrack of one of its post in Jiribam of Manipur.
The incident was followed by another incident of shooting to dead of his colleague by another jawan who also committed suicide in October 7 of the same year.
In November 3, 2006 also at Nongdum post of the 19 Assam Rifles in the same Ukhrul district where Wednesday incident occurred, a Havildar by the named committed suicide after killing his post commander.
Wednesday incident is amidst a high tension between the troops of Assam Rifles and cadres of the outlaw NSCN (IM) maintaining cease-fire with GOI at Siroy village near the district headquarter since the last three days.
Troops of Assam Rifles are keeping cordon off a camp of the NSCN(IM) .
Inspector general has order a code of enquiry into the incident.
The operation to track down the decamped jawan is also in progress, said a source from the PRO of the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South) today.
A jawan of the 17 Assam Rifles by the name Sheneyi Medio, hailing from Nagaland state at first gunned down the JCO named Baldev Singh and later fired indiscriminately toward the post where other personnel are camping and immediately left the post with the AK rifles issued to him, the source said.
The jawan decamped only with the weapon (AK rifles) issued to him," the source revealed while clarifying that no other weapons carry away by him while running away.
Other personnel died in the discriminating firing were havildar Shamsu Chama, rifleman, W Islam, Diwas Singh, Bikash Kumar and Pritish Kumar.
The six personnel were on duty at the very outpost under the supervision of the JCO, the source said.
The source also ruled out possibility of the decamped jawan joining to a militant outfit stating soon after the shoot out incident, the entire hill area have been cordon off and manhunt operations have launched and till today operation in the jungles are in progress.
The incident occurred in the aftermath of a heated altercation between the decamped jawan and the JCO, Naib Subedar Baldev Singh, the in-charge of the AR manning a permanent check post on the road connecting the Ukhrul district headquarter with Kasom sub-division of the same district near the Kasom Khullen village.
The place is located some 17 kilometer from the hill district headquarter of Manipur which bordering with Nagaland on one side and with Myanmar.
Wednesday's incident is the sixth of which personnel of the Central security forces deploying in the state for counter insurgency killed their colleagues for one or other reason since 2005.The latest one occurred in July last year 2008 in which a jawan by the name Ashokumar of the Jammu and Kashmir Light shot dead a major Ankit Varandhwaj at one its post at Montuk in Chandel district.
In September 2005, a jawan of the 5th Assam Rifles killed four of his colleagues and wounded to one other following a heated argument inside the barrack of one of its post in Jiribam of Manipur.
The incident was followed by another incident of shooting to dead of his colleague by another jawan who also committed suicide in October 7 of the same year.
In November 3, 2006 also at Nongdum post of the 19 Assam Rifles in the same Ukhrul district where Wednesday incident occurred, a Havildar by the named committed suicide after killing his post commander.
Wednesday incident is amidst a high tension between the troops of Assam Rifles and cadres of the outlaw NSCN (IM) maintaining cease-fire with GOI at Siroy village near the district headquarter since the last three days.
Troops of Assam Rifles are keeping cordon off a camp of the NSCN(IM) .
Malls Flooded With Foreign Apparels
One might not able to locate where Manipur lies! Intellectuals even confused on several occasions on the where about of this state as a foreign nation. Their assumptions seem a dream comes true today! The youths and teenagers are fashion cognisant and that too not Indian apparel, but foreign lifestyles. The business of fashion in Manipur is more advanced than other cities of India, leaving those metropolitans.
Manipur is an extraordinary place, full of charm, beauty and creativity. It lies in the North-Eastern region of Indian Sub-continent, between 23.5 oN-25.3 oN Latitude and 93.4 oE-95.3 oE Longitudes, bordering Myanmar in the east, Nagaland state in the north, Assam and Mizoram in the west. Encircled by nine hill ranges, Manipur is marked out by a picturesque valley in the midst. The total area of Manipur is 22,327 sq. km. Out of this only 2,238 sq. Km are valley while the remaining areas are covered with hilly tracts.
Manipur, a small state which lies on a melting pot of culture is regarded as one of the world’s beauty spots. The Rasa Lila, a classical dance of Manipur is world famous for its gentleness and serenity. Modern day polo was first played here as royal sport. Thus, the world credited the state as the home for polo game.
The place of surpassing attractions include superb panorama of evergreen hill ranges, the soil of Khongjom soaked with sacred blood of martyrs, the first battle of Anglo-Manipur war of 1891 at Kangla, the erstwhile capital of Manipur Kingdom. The Loktak lake-the largest freshwater lake in the North East, natural habitat of Brow-antlered deer at the Keibul Lamjao National Park-the only floating National Park in the world, the I.N.A. Memorial at Moirang where the first tricolour flag of Indian Independence was hoisted by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, the Siroi Lily found only on the Siroi Hills, the symmertical two Second World War cemeteries, exquisite handloom and handicraft products of world fame.
Manipur is famous for the ‘Ema Keithel’ - women’s market at Khwairamband bazaar- the only and the largest market in the world run by women, the gold-domed Shri Govindajee Temple, the Saheed Minar, the Khonghampat Orchid Yard, the Tharon Cave at Tamenglong, the Khanghui Cave at Ukhrul, the Kangla Park and the Moat surrounding the old historical palace of the Maharajas of ore-British period.
Manipur is not only the gateway to the North Eastern region but also a fascinating destination for discerning tourists. Legends say that the discovery of Manipur is the result of the delight the Gods took in dancing. It is this remarkable bid that gives Manipur a unique identity of her own. Blessed with a salubrious climate, famous for its distinctive cultural pattern and its evergreen scenic beauty, extend the tourists a cordial invitation to visit Manipur.
The shops and malls located here are flooded with foreign goods. From trousers, shirts to shoes and even caps - all are highly fashionable with excellent quality. Thanks to various factors - remote locations, border area, indefinite blockades and of course, the pressure from revolutionaries.
Two major shopping malls are very popular in Manipur. Gambhir Singh Shopping Arcade was established on July 17, 1998. The mall is a four-storey building with different plot sized shops. Unlike Mumbai and Delhi, it is not own by one proprietor or retail guru. Every shop owner is the owner of his own shops or plots. The first floor has around 25 shops with a vast area of 28 square metres each. Cost wise, each shop has retail value of Rs 7-10 lakhs. Second floor housed around 60 smaller shops with an area of 12 square metres. The top floor housed several offices and a cable operator, ISTV which is the sole cable channel in Manipur.
The second floor shops are rented for Rs 750 -1000 per month. Besides apparel and lifestyle cloths, there are beauty saloon, cosmetics and restaurants inside the Gambhir Singh Shopping Arcade. The name ‘Gambhir Singh’ is dedicated to the great kings of Manipur Kingdom who freed its people from the clutches of Burmese (present day Myanmar) invasion. Thus, people here used to say, the shopping mall freed from normal and orthodox lifestyles. Ever since the mall came, teenagers and youths here are fashion conscious and they could compete with any models and actors from Bollywood.
The other shopping mall is Leima Shopping Plaza at Governor Road, behind the Polo Ground. The word ‘Leima’ refers to ‘respected lady’ in regional language. Definitely, the plaza is meant for women in general. It has around 35 shops and others are in the final stage to be open for the public. The Leima shopping Plaza was earlier a huge movie theatre with modern Dolby system and other modern facilities, named ‘Friends Mini’. Hollywood box office grosser like ‘The World is Not Enough’ and Bollywood superhit ‘Hum Aap ke Hai Kaun’ were the last movies the Manipur cinemagoers could remember. But due to the revolutionaries ban on Hindi films in the state since last 4-5years, people stop viewing cinemas. The owners of the theatre had then converted it into the current plaza. Like the previous shopping mall, it is the hunting ground for the foreign fashion.
When a teenager wears foreign outfits, naturally the looks need to be transformed to match with his dresses. For this, several saloons and parlour exists within the plaza. One might wonder how this fashion trends starts in this small state. Reaching Manipur is not one’s cup of tea. It takes nearly 3 days from Delhi by rail till Guwahati, then another night journey by bus. Reaching Imphal by airline could cost heavy expenditure, around Rs.12,000-Rs.15,000 per person. Lack of communication and improper contact with other part of the country is hampering the Indian fashion to reach the mind of Manipuris youth staying here. And when films and other source of Hindi serials have been forbidden from the youth’s life, where do they get inspiration of latest fashions?
Although bans from viewing Hindi and its movies, these youths crave to imitate Indian models and actresses. They love to be like the King Khans and the pretty priety Zinta! Moreover, recent renaissance of Manipuri films has paved the way for fashions to revive again. Today almost two films are produced every month and the quality and the customs of such miniature efforts are the best in entire North East India. Big players like Assam could not match the quality, fashion and customs that are shown in Manipur cinema, though mega and super malls such as the Hub, Sohum and the Vishal Malls are located in Guwahati. Visitors frequency are meanly for business and shopping purposes only. Unlike the big malls in other cities of the country the two malls at Imphal have a highest conversion percentage of business volume, nearly 79%.
Manipur is an extraordinary place, full of charm, beauty and creativity. It lies in the North-Eastern region of Indian Sub-continent, between 23.5 oN-25.3 oN Latitude and 93.4 oE-95.3 oE Longitudes, bordering Myanmar in the east, Nagaland state in the north, Assam and Mizoram in the west. Encircled by nine hill ranges, Manipur is marked out by a picturesque valley in the midst. The total area of Manipur is 22,327 sq. km. Out of this only 2,238 sq. Km are valley while the remaining areas are covered with hilly tracts.
Manipur, a small state which lies on a melting pot of culture is regarded as one of the world’s beauty spots. The Rasa Lila, a classical dance of Manipur is world famous for its gentleness and serenity. Modern day polo was first played here as royal sport. Thus, the world credited the state as the home for polo game.
The place of surpassing attractions include superb panorama of evergreen hill ranges, the soil of Khongjom soaked with sacred blood of martyrs, the first battle of Anglo-Manipur war of 1891 at Kangla, the erstwhile capital of Manipur Kingdom. The Loktak lake-the largest freshwater lake in the North East, natural habitat of Brow-antlered deer at the Keibul Lamjao National Park-the only floating National Park in the world, the I.N.A. Memorial at Moirang where the first tricolour flag of Indian Independence was hoisted by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, the Siroi Lily found only on the Siroi Hills, the symmertical two Second World War cemeteries, exquisite handloom and handicraft products of world fame.
Manipur is famous for the ‘Ema Keithel’ - women’s market at Khwairamband bazaar- the only and the largest market in the world run by women, the gold-domed Shri Govindajee Temple, the Saheed Minar, the Khonghampat Orchid Yard, the Tharon Cave at Tamenglong, the Khanghui Cave at Ukhrul, the Kangla Park and the Moat surrounding the old historical palace of the Maharajas of ore-British period.
Manipur is not only the gateway to the North Eastern region but also a fascinating destination for discerning tourists. Legends say that the discovery of Manipur is the result of the delight the Gods took in dancing. It is this remarkable bid that gives Manipur a unique identity of her own. Blessed with a salubrious climate, famous for its distinctive cultural pattern and its evergreen scenic beauty, extend the tourists a cordial invitation to visit Manipur.
The shops and malls located here are flooded with foreign goods. From trousers, shirts to shoes and even caps - all are highly fashionable with excellent quality. Thanks to various factors - remote locations, border area, indefinite blockades and of course, the pressure from revolutionaries.
Two major shopping malls are very popular in Manipur. Gambhir Singh Shopping Arcade was established on July 17, 1998. The mall is a four-storey building with different plot sized shops. Unlike Mumbai and Delhi, it is not own by one proprietor or retail guru. Every shop owner is the owner of his own shops or plots. The first floor has around 25 shops with a vast area of 28 square metres each. Cost wise, each shop has retail value of Rs 7-10 lakhs. Second floor housed around 60 smaller shops with an area of 12 square metres. The top floor housed several offices and a cable operator, ISTV which is the sole cable channel in Manipur.
The second floor shops are rented for Rs 750 -1000 per month. Besides apparel and lifestyle cloths, there are beauty saloon, cosmetics and restaurants inside the Gambhir Singh Shopping Arcade. The name ‘Gambhir Singh’ is dedicated to the great kings of Manipur Kingdom who freed its people from the clutches of Burmese (present day Myanmar) invasion. Thus, people here used to say, the shopping mall freed from normal and orthodox lifestyles. Ever since the mall came, teenagers and youths here are fashion conscious and they could compete with any models and actors from Bollywood.
The other shopping mall is Leima Shopping Plaza at Governor Road, behind the Polo Ground. The word ‘Leima’ refers to ‘respected lady’ in regional language. Definitely, the plaza is meant for women in general. It has around 35 shops and others are in the final stage to be open for the public. The Leima shopping Plaza was earlier a huge movie theatre with modern Dolby system and other modern facilities, named ‘Friends Mini’. Hollywood box office grosser like ‘The World is Not Enough’ and Bollywood superhit ‘Hum Aap ke Hai Kaun’ were the last movies the Manipur cinemagoers could remember. But due to the revolutionaries ban on Hindi films in the state since last 4-5years, people stop viewing cinemas. The owners of the theatre had then converted it into the current plaza. Like the previous shopping mall, it is the hunting ground for the foreign fashion.
When a teenager wears foreign outfits, naturally the looks need to be transformed to match with his dresses. For this, several saloons and parlour exists within the plaza. One might wonder how this fashion trends starts in this small state. Reaching Manipur is not one’s cup of tea. It takes nearly 3 days from Delhi by rail till Guwahati, then another night journey by bus. Reaching Imphal by airline could cost heavy expenditure, around Rs.12,000-Rs.15,000 per person. Lack of communication and improper contact with other part of the country is hampering the Indian fashion to reach the mind of Manipuris youth staying here. And when films and other source of Hindi serials have been forbidden from the youth’s life, where do they get inspiration of latest fashions?
Although bans from viewing Hindi and its movies, these youths crave to imitate Indian models and actresses. They love to be like the King Khans and the pretty priety Zinta! Moreover, recent renaissance of Manipuri films has paved the way for fashions to revive again. Today almost two films are produced every month and the quality and the customs of such miniature efforts are the best in entire North East India. Big players like Assam could not match the quality, fashion and customs that are shown in Manipur cinema, though mega and super malls such as the Hub, Sohum and the Vishal Malls are located in Guwahati. Visitors frequency are meanly for business and shopping purposes only. Unlike the big malls in other cities of the country the two malls at Imphal have a highest conversion percentage of business volume, nearly 79%.
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