JAC to squat at MLAs' residences

Imphal, February 28 : A public meeting convened by the JAC Against the brutal Killing of Dr Th Kishan, A Rajen and Y Token at Nagamapal Kangjabi Leirak today resolved, among others, to stage sit-in-protests at the residences of Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) as a part of sustaining the ongoing agitation.

The meeting organised in condemnation of the killing of Kasom Khullen SDO Dr Th Kishan, driver A Rajen and Revenue Department Mandal Y Token by the Naga rebel group NSCN (IM) unanimously resolved to stage protest demonstrations at the entrance gates of the MLAs.

The public gathering also decided to organise mass protest rally in Bishnupur district headquarters on March 2 to demand arrest and punishment of the trio's killers with similar agitation at Thoubal district the next day.

It also resolved to appeal to Government employees to join the movement through mass casual leave on march 4 with future course of agitation to be decided based on response/reaction of the State authorities and report of the enquiry committee, which the Government had constituted to investigate the case.

Arrest and punishment of the culprits according to law of the land and convening of emergency Assembly session for deliberation and definite stand of the Government on the issue were the highlight of the meeting.

Addressing the gathering JAC chairman Lt Col (Retd) Soram Tiken categorically asserted that the killing of the three is a conspiracy and that the Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Pal along with the NSCN (IM) cadres involved in the case deserve to be booked and punished for not only the murder but also for scheming communal enmity.

Pointing out to all concerned, especially State authorities that the proclaimed law and court of the Naga rebel group have no validity or legal authenticity and the masses cannot not accept contention of the NSCN (IM), Tiken demanded a special security force, if needed, be set up by both the state and Central to reclaim custody of the killers from the NSCN-IM's clutches.

The JAC chairman also disagreed with the assertion of Tangkhul Naga long president Stephen Ankang's at the february 25 protest rally cum public meeting at Ukhrul district headquarters for punishment of the killers under the Tangkhul customary law.

Tiken substantiated that customary law should be applicable in cases only when the victim/s and the perpetrator/s belong to the same community/tribe.

He reminded that the land is being governed by laws enacted and framed through the people's representatives and thus the question of customary law in the particular case do not arise.

MEEKAL president AK janaki Devi observed that CM O Ibobi's tolerant attitude when mockingly welcomed during a visit to Senapati district headquarters emboldened murderers of Dr Kishan, Rajen and Token.

She also alleged that lenient approach of the State Govt inspite of a number of report/incident of extortion along the NHs, frequent abductions and merciless slaying of individuals is an important factor for the criminals to commit more atrocities.

The women activists also expressed strong resentment at inaction of State and Central security forces against criminal activities of the NSCN-IM and exclaimed that these forces are morally responsible for Dr Kishan, Token and Rajen losing their lives.

MHA seeks 2 IRBs for Chhattisgarh

Imphal, February 28 : The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India, has asked the Nagaland government for two Naga IRBs for deployment in the Naxal-hit Bastar region of Chhattisgarh for two years.

The Daring ninth was deployed in Chhattisgarh earlier.

The MHA's demand reportedly came following Union Home Minister P Chidambaram's recent visit to Naxal-infested Chhattisgarh and a subsequent high-level meeting held with the Chhattisgarh government.

It was learnt that the Governor of Chhattisgarh, who was the former Intelligent Bureau chief, had personally persuaded the Union Home Minister for deployment of Naga IRB jawans in Chhattisgarh instead of any other force.

Pointing to the popular demand of the Naga IRB in Chhattisgarh after the Daring 9 had received accolades for its valour and gallantry while serving there, the Chhattisgarh Governor was said to have gone to the extent of telling the Home Minister that one Naga IRB was far more effective than 10 battalions of other force in the state.

Though the state government is yet to take the final decision on the MHA demand for two IR Battalions, it is likely that the state would be compelled to comply with the demand.

Tribals' Council pleads Governor

Imphal, February 27 : Pleading on the constitutional head of the State to realize his constitutional duty in directing the State Government to initiate local self-government for the tribals, leaders from the Manipur Tribals Council today argue for the immediate intervention of His Excellency.

The state government never wants to see the tribals to have their own local self-government at village levels, and the district level as well, charged the council in its representation to the governor today.

The Government gives importance only to the Panchayats and Parishads elections in the valley by conducting but failed to uphold the same for district council elections in the hills.

The tribal democratic rights and constitutional safeguards were snatched away by the state government, said the council.

Article 46, 338, 339 and 340 of the Constitution require the Governor of Manipur to report to the President of India every ten years on the administration of the hill areas of Manipur, it adds and claimed that the President of India failed to fulfil its constitutional duties in this regard by not directing the State constitutional head to initiate election in the declared Scheduled area.

Tribal chiefs rights and their lands were still as it was from time immemorial, and we did not surrender them to any Government.

We only participate in Indian democracy, the memo maintained, but the state government denied them to participate in that democratic exercise.

Also sounding a warning note the cou-ncil warns of joining self determination movement if the Government intentionally curtails the tribals to participate in democratic exercise at the grass root level.

Though specifying March 2009 as the dateline for the state government to conduct the ADC election, the Governor is understood to have told them that the upcoming Lok Sabha will impede the process but assured the leaders to do his bit after the election.

HSLC 2009 exam to commence today

Imphal, February 27 : The number of students enrolled for appearing in the High School Leaving Certificate Examination to be conducted by the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur this year has been recorded highest in comparison to the previous five years.

In all 27,976 students would be appearing in the examination due to begin from tomorrow.

Enrolment of students for the first public examination conducted by the Board of Secondary Education had witnessed steady decline over the last five years.

In 2005, 26,321 students were enrolled, 24,926 students in 2006, 23,228 students in 2007 and 24,864 students in 2008.But this year an increase of 3112 students in the enrolment has been recorded against that of the last year.

Interacting with The Sangai Express in connection with the enrolment of more students for the examination this year, Secretary of Board of Secondary Education, Manipur L Rajmohan Singh observed that it is a sign of improvement.

He explained that the number of students appearing in HSLC examination under the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur had declined in the past five years due to various factors like students from the hills opting to appear in the examination under Nagaland Board, strict measures against use of unfair means in the examination and students preferring to write the examination under the National Open School.

However, as the number of students opting for Na-galand Board has come down this years, the number of student enrolment under the Manipur Board has increased, he added.

This year, students from 476 private schools, 224 Go-vernment schools and 85 Aided schools would be ap-pearing in the examination.

For smooth conduct of the examination this year, in all 58 private centres and 30 Board centres have been set up and 15 flying squads formed, he informed.

It may be noted here that the BSEM has been conducting HSLC examination since 1973. In the history of the examination so far, the year 1995 has recorded the highest number of students with a total of 49,216.Commencing from tomorrow, this year's HSLC examination would continue till March 23. Class XI and XII examination conducted by the Council of Higher Education, Manipur would also be held along with the Board examination this year.

Mid-day meal 'out of stock'

New Delhi, February 27 : The grand and noble program-me of the Government of India to provide free mid-day meals to students of primary schools across the country is facing crippling problems as there is no stock of rice in FCI godown.

An official source disclosed that with rice stock for the same scheme emp-ty in FCI godown, rice for Mid-Day Meal scheme has not been released since October last year till February this year.

To ensure that rice quotas for these months do not get lapsed, the Ministry of Human Resources Development has written to the Government of India to extend lifting validity, conveyed the source.

On the other hand, as fixed by the Programme Advisory Board of the Mi-nistry of Human Resources Development, primary level students of Manipur will be given mid-day meals for 21 days in a month during the current academic session.

With the State Government realising that the Mid-Day Meal scheme is still unable to achieve its target in remote areas, particularly in hill districts, the Government has initiated a special measure to make the scheme a success all over the State, informed the source.

Under the new arrangement, distribution of Mid-Day Meal cards, stock registers, cash books and attendance registers to all Government schools including schools under District Councils have already begun.

The exact figure of children availing mid-day meal will be entered in the Mid-Day Meal card on daily basis.

Quantity of rice taken by a school and quantity fed to students under the scheme will be entered in the stock register on monthly basis.

Amount sanctioned for purchasing vegetables and other dish items will be entered in the cash book while attendance register will be used in recording attendance of students, explained the source.

Keibul villagers decry summon

Imphal, February 27 : Keibul and Chingmei villagers have decried the summons sent by Forest Department in connection with the fire that ravaged an extensive area of the Keibul Lamjao National Park on February 22. The villagers to whom summons have been sent to collect reports on the inferno include Sinam Thoiba (55) of Keibul Makha Leikai, Heisnam Chaoba (58) of Keibul Awang Leikai, Oi-nam Koireng (70) of Chingmei, Haojam Lukhoi (61) of Chingmei and his wife Haojam (O) Yaima (57), Salam Motilal (30) of Keibul Mayai Leikai, Ningthoujam Yaima (53) of Keibul Mayai Leikai, Heisnam Jiten (37) of Keibul Awang Leikai, Ning-thoujam Mangalemba (48) of Keibul Mayai Leikai and Salam Doren (37) of Keibul Awang Leikai.

According to the summons, they should report to Forest Department on February 27. In connection with the summons, a joint meeting of Keibul and Chingmei villagers was held at Chingmei Keinya Bazar today.

Various resolution adopted in the meeting include urging upon the authority to increase the number of staff looking after Keibul Lamjao National Park and to take up necessary measures to avoid fire mishaps in future.

Awarding befitting punishment to any one found starting fire inside the Park and conducting a joint enquiry with the villagers to check if there is any casualty to Sangai because of the inferno were other resolutions of the meeting.

The meeting also decried the act of issuing summons to eleven villagers in connection with the inferno.

After the meeting, more than 1000 villagers of Keibul and Chingmei went to the Park and inspected the areas ravaged by fire.

Notably, officials of Forest and Environment have clarified that there was no casualty to Sangai because of the inferno.

Manipur student hurt in Shillong inferno

Imphal, February 27 : A Manipuri student studying in class XII at Assam Rifles Public School in Latkot, Shillong had a providential escape with burnt injuries when fire broke out his in sleeping room under suspicious condition.

The injured student has been identified as Shivraj Sharma of Chingmeirong.

He is the son of BK Sharma, who is the Deputy Director in the Transport Department, Govt of Manipur.

According to family members, Shivraj was slee-ping along with 15 other students in the AC House Dormitory of the School when the fire which had already caught his blanket was detected in the wee hours today.

In a state of daze, Shivraj who had no idea how the fire broke out tried to flung the blanket and in the process a part of the burning blanket stuck to his body causing the injuries.

The school authority admitted Shivraj to hospital and informed family members about the incident at around 11 am today.

After passing Cl-X from Maria Montesorri School here, Shivraj was admitted to the Latkot school for his 10+2 studies.

He is to appear in the CBSE conducted class XII exam scheduled to begin from March 1.

Night landing trial at Tulihal Airport set for March

Imphal, February 27 : The trial test for night landing of aero-plane at Tulihal Airport is likely to be conducted in March.

According to an official source, the Airport Authority of India has communicated to the State Government that the test landing would be conducted in March.

As part of the Prime Minister's package, the State Government has taken up necessary measures for providing facilities for night landing of aeroplanes at Imphal Tulihal airport.

Accordingly, towers have been constructed and Solar Power Obstruction Light (SPOL) installed atop Nongmaiching, Phunal Maring, Heibong, Chingphu and Langjing hillocks.

However, as the clearance of the Ministry of Civil Aviation is essential for providing facilities for night landing, the Airport Authority of India has been trying to get the required clearance from the Ministry.

JNRUM buses to zip across Manipur

Imphal, February 27 : In the selection of 65 Mission Cities where 15,000 city buses would be provided for improving the city transport system under the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewable Mission (JnURM), the Government of India has included 60 buses for Manipur.

According to an official source, out of the 60 buses to be provided by the Ministry of Urban Development, 50 are low floor buses and the remaining 10 semi-low floor buses.

The total estimated cost of 50 low floor buses to be provided would be around Rs 100 crores and the 10 semi low floor buses would cost around Rs 20 crores, thus total cost of the 60 buses would come to around Rs 120 crores, the source disclosed, adding that the Ministry would be sanctioning the buses by March next.

The 60 city buses to be provided under JNURM would ply to connect the 10 city bus parking lots being proposed to be set up by the State Government from the allocated fund of the 11th Plan.

The sites where the proposed city bus parking would be set up include Sekmai, Lilong, Wangoi, Nam-bol, Pangei, Irilbung, Top Khongnangkhong, Keithelmanbi (National Highway 39), Lamlong and Lamshang.

The 60 city buses would be operated by a company under the public-private partnership and the company would also be responsible for the maintenance of these buses.

However, the company has to pay the revenue share of the State Government generated from operating the bus services.

As of now the State Government has not yet finalised on the company which would be entrusted with the task of operating the 60 city buses.

The State Government would invite tenders from various companies before taking a final decision in this regard.

Moreover for the purpose of repairing the 60 city buses in case of breakdown during service, the Government is considering to upgrade the existing MSRTC complexes at Moirangkhom and Mantripukhri as workshops, the official source added.

Curfew in Manipur relaxed for twelve hours

Manipur, Feb 25  With a further improvement in the law and order situation in Manipur, curfew was relaxed for twelve hours from 6 a.m. on Wednesday morning.

Meanwhile, the local civil society organisations have urged the state government to pressurise the National Socialist Council of Nagaland(Isaac-Muivah - NSCN (IM) to hand over the killers of the three government officials.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) had imposed an indefinite strike on February 19 against the murder of three state government employees in Ukhrul district by some unknown miscreants.
State Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh on February 20, met leaders of the JAC who submitted a charter of demands to him including immediate prosecution of the former Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul region and the arrest of culprits.
The JAC has held the NSCN (IM) responsible for the killing of the employees.
However, in a statement, the NSCN (IM) denied their link to the murder.

CM to meet union Home Minister and Defence Minister today

DG gives clean chit to rescued three

Imphal, February 25 : Even as Chief Minister O Ibobi who is in Delhi is scheduled to meet the Union Home Minister as well as the Union Defence Minister and highlight the brutal killing of the SDO of Kasom Khullen and his two subordinates tomorrow, State DGP Y Joykumar has given a clean chit to the three other employees who were reportedly rescued by a team of the Assam Rifles and State police from Tolloi in Ukhrul district.

On being contacted DGP Y Joykumar said that the three other employees who were rescued from Tolloi village in Ukhrul district in the wee hours of February 21 are 'victims'and had no hands in the gruesome killing of the SDO and his two men.

The three men who were put up in a safehouse of the IGAR (S), but under the custody of the State police, due to security reasons have been transferred to Imphal West police today.

Though the DGP had announced through some sections of the media that the three had admitted that the SDO and his men were killed by some IM men, he refused to disclose any other information culled from them, when The Sangai Express contacted him today.

Since the battered bodies of the SDO and his two subordinates were found at a spot at Senapati district, a case has been taken up by Senapati police.

With an investigation team set up under an SDPO, the statement of the three rescued men will be recorded at Imphal soon, said Senapati police.

Following the setting up of the investigation team, Senapati police have started covering the conversation of the concerned made through the mobile phones and the mobile of the then Ukhrul DC Pankaj Pal may also be confiscated for due investigation, said the source further.

Meanwhile Chief Minister O Ibobi who is currently in Delhi is scheduled to meet the Union Home Minister and Union Defence Minister tomorrow to demand that the master mind in the crime, Lt Col Hopeson Ningshen, Major Ashang and Town Commander of Ukhrul Apho Chibo who are reportedly in the custody of the IM group be handed over to the State Government for due course of action.

The NSCN (IM) which had earlier proclaimed that the verdict in the case would be arrived at by Monday (Feb 23) has sought three more days time to arrive at a final decision as some suspects are still to be identified.

On the other hand the Inquiry Committee constituted by the State Govt under Agriculture Commissioner O Nabaki-shore and IG LM Khaute (Intelligence) has recorded the statements of the three 'rescued'men.

The statement of the Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul Pankaj Pal has also been recorded, said the source.

The DC was earlier summoned to the office of the Chief Minister and questioned on the lack of co-ordination and dereliction of duty, before the suspension order was issued.

The JAC on the other hand has been demanding criminal proceedings against the DC.

Govt insensitivity means severe hardships for Mautum affected in Churachandpur

By M Kaimuanthang

Churachandpur, Feb 25 : The Mautam affected people of Churachandpur district are reportedly compelled to pay the transportation charges from the district headquarters to their respective villages which is 10 times more than the government approved rates.

Stating this today in a press release, the ZEPADA (Zomi Economic Planning and Development Agency ) has said that this is a cruel act of insensivity on the part of the goverment to tax the hungry public just because there is no provision for meeting the transportation cost.

Maintaining that the ZEPADA had always made an appeal to the government to make arrangement for transporting rice, it said this too had not yielded positive response from the government.The district officials appeared to be completely helpless on the issue, it said adding which is why the hungry villagers have to bear the brunt of such apathy.

The release went on to say that the FCI is supposed to pay or re-imburse the transportation charges upto the existing principal distributuion centres i.e. Parbung and Churachandpur headquarters.

Questioning why even after receiving such magnanimous assistance from the Union government the state government failed to extend a little samaritan gesture, it said in spite of this during the first phase of relief rice distribution in Singngat subdivision there were reports of rice embezzlement on the pretext that provision for transportation charges are not given by the government.

The district administartion inititaed prompt action due to which the culprits, both officials as well as the village chiefs, were forced to recover all the missing rice.

While expressing hope that such practises do not recur in the future, it pointed out there are instances of NREGS money being diverted by the chiefs to meet the transportation charges in Thanlon and Henglep sub-division.

In additon to the transportation charges the chiefs are asked to pay expenditures of the supervisory officials deputed to oversee the conduct of rice distribution, it said.

It said what remains uncertain is when and from which account will the government repay Rs. 3 per kg plus officials expenditures paid by the chief, while stating also that the amount is ranging from Rs. 20,000 to 92,000 for villages of Thanlon and Henglep sub-division.

It further said this is an enormous amount for famine affected people, adding they have scepticism as the government having given definite assurance is yet to recover the meagre amount of Rs. 17, 964 that ZEPADA incurred on food, lodging and transportation charges of the visiting Central ministerial team who conducted survey of crop damages during April 2 and 3 in Churachandpur district.

Bird Flu Virus in Manipur in 2007 was Unique

INDIA - Study of the H5N1 virus causing the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Manipur in 2007 suggests that the virus originated in Russia, China or Mongolia, and may have been brought by migrating wild birds.

A focal H5N1 outbreak in poultry was reported from Manipur, a north-eastern state of India, in 2007. 7thspace reports that the aim of the study was to genetically characterize the Manipur virus isolate to understand the relationship with other H5N1 isolates and to trace the possible source of introduction of the virus into the country.

Characterisation of the complete genome revealed that the virus belonged to clade 2.2.

It was distinctly different from viruses of the three EMA sub-lineages of clade 2.2 but related to isolates from wild migratory waterfowl from Russia, China and Mongolia. The HA gene, had the cleavage site GERRRRKR, earlier reported in whooper swan isolates from Mongolia in 2005.

A stop codon at position 29 in the PB1-F2 protein could have implications on the replication efficiency. The acquisition of polymorphisms as seen in recent isolates of 2005-07 from distinct geographical regions suggests the possibility of transportation of H5N1 viruses through migratory birds.

The authors concluded that considering that all eight genes of the earlier Indian isolates belonged to the EMA3 sub-lineage and similar strains have not been reported from neighbouring countries of the sub-continent, it appears that the virus may have been introduced independently.

Reference

Mishra A.C., S.S. Cherian, A.K. Chakrabarti, S.D. Pawar, S.M. Jadhav, B. Pal, S. Raut, S. Koratkar and S.S. Kode. 2009. A unique influenza A (H5N1) virus causing a focal poultry outbreak in 2007 in Manipur, India. Virology Journal, 6: 26.

Meitei Christians condemn killing of SDO and co-workers

February 18,

THE Meitei Baptist Convention, Manipur (MBCM), has condemned the gruesome killing of the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Kasom Khullen, Thingnam Kishan, his driver Aribam Rajen Sharma and staff Yumnam Token.

Their bodies were found near Taphou Kuki village in Senapati district after being abducted from Ukhrul a few days ago, according to a press release issued by Y Ashis Kumar, general secretary, MBCM.

Meitei Christians will take up the campaign against the killing culture of Manipur and appeal to all in the civil society to get involved in restoring peace and harmony among various tribes and communities of the State, the release said.

The member churches of Meitei Baptist Convention, Manipur, extended their condolence to the bereaved family members of the victims and also appealed to all sects of society in

Manipur to maintain peace and harmony, the release added.

The Meitei Baptist Convention, Manipur is the unified body of Meitei Christians in Manipur involved in transforming individuals and communities.

Normal life paralysed, vehicles damaged in Manipur

Imphal, Feb 18 : Normal life was brought to a standstill and over 50 vehicles were damaged at various places during the 48-hour Manipur bandh called to protest the killing of a Sub-Divisional Officer and his two staff members by suspected hill-based militants, official reports said.

Supporters of the bandh, called by a local action committee and supported by several major social organisations, damaged vehicles at Sagolband, Kakwa, Yumnam Leikai and many other places for defying it, the reports said.

They said supporters of the bandh blocked the road at many places in Imphal and greater Imphal areas and set afire vehicle tyres at major roads here.

Shops, markets, business establishments were closed while attendance in government was "almost nil". Transport services between Manipur and neighbouring states and also within the state were cancelled in response to the bandh which began from midnight last, the reports said.

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed by local residents called the bandh in protest against the brutal killing of SDO of Kasom Khullen in Ukhrul district, Thingnam Kishan, his driver Aribam Rajen and an official of his department Y Token, whose bodies were found yesterday at Taphou area of Senapati district.

RIMS belies trust

Imphal, February 18 : The tall claims of those in authority to make RIMS at par with AIMS sounds hollow if one takes cognizance of the non-functional ultrasound machine and absence of separate Gynae Operation Theatre in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Ward have been causing severe inconvenience to patients.

Speaking at a discussion programme on child health held in the complex of Women and Child Development ashram at Changangei Uchekon today, Associate Professor of RIMS Dr S Randhoni disclosed that ultrasound machine of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department has not been functioning for the last 5/6 years.

Observing that non-functional ultrasound machine has been causing immense inconvenience to patients admitted in RIMS, Dr Randhoni said that patients are compelled to go outside the institute to take ultrasound which is essential in most cases of child delivery and related medical examinations.

Besides the financial burden faced by poor patients, taking ultrasound outside RIMS causes great hardships at times of emergency, she noted.

Another major problem faced by patients is the absence of a separate OT for the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department.

With the general OT occupied most of the time for emergency cases like bullet/bomb injuries, the OT was not available when situation demands surgical operation for child delivery, she said.

Unavailability of OT in such situations put both the mother and child at great risks.

To redress these problems, the department has repeatedly approached the RIMS authority to make the ultrasound machine functional and also to open a separate OT for the department, Dr Randhoni said.

Informing that around 1000 children are born in the hospital in a month on the average, she said that 30 percent of these child delivery cases need operation.

The discussion programme held under the aegis of the Manipur State Commission for Women was also participated by MSCW Chairperson Dr Ch Jamini, former Director of Family Welfare Dr Th Biren, Additional Director dr H Ibemhal, Joint Director Dr Y Ibechoubi and Imphal East District Welfare officer Dr Momota Mukherjee.

Dr Y Ibechoubi said that only 60 percent of children can be immunised in Manipur.

She noted the importance of giving health awareness to the people so that women and children can enjoy all health care facilities.

Dr Jamini said that necessary recommendations would be forwarded to the relevant authority to redress the problems plaguing Obstetrics and Gynaecology department of RIMS.

AICC condemns killings of govt officials in Manipur

AICC condemned the killing of sub-divisional officer of Kasom Khullen, Dr Thingnam Kishan, his driver Aribam Rajen Sharma and staffer Yumnam Token, whose bodies were found near Taphou Kuki village in Senapati district. They had earlier been abducted..

CONDEMNING THE killing of innocent people in Manipur, the All India Christian Council (AICC) has appealed to all the tribes, and communities of the state, particularly the churches of all denominations to condemn the violence in the state and be involved in restoring the peace, harmony, law and order in the region.

AICC condemned the killing of sub-divisional officer (SDO) of Kasom Khullen, Dr Thingnam Kishan, his driver Aribam Rajen Sharma and staffer Yumnam Token, whose bodies were found near Taphou Kuki village in Senapati district after being abducted from Ukhrul a few days back.

Regional secretary of AICC and spokesperson of North East Support Centre and Helpline, Rev Madhu Chandra said, “The intention of the killing the MCS officials by the unknown persons is not clear.

Yet it could cause communal tension among the different communities of the state, particularly on the eve of general elections due in just few months. Whoever the killers may be, they are anti-people and deserve stringent punishment from the law.

Most important, all the communities must maintain peace and harmony and avoid any provocative propaganda.”

Reports say there is, on average, a killing of three persons each day.

This has left countless widows and orphans and is a grave concern for every citizen of the state. Recalling the role of every civil society, including the role of the churches and church bodies, is very crucial.

Dr Sam Paul, AICC national secretary of public affairs, said, “Wherever churches exist, they bring the community transformation.

I believe the body of Christ and the churches of Manipur still have a big role to bring the community transformation, peace, harmony, law, and order to the state.”

Dr Paul appealed to all the Christian churches and denominational bodies to organise mass prayer campaigns for the state and play the role in bringing the transformation just as Christianity in many parts of the world has brought the same.

Responding to chief minister O Ibobi Singh’s promise of Rs 10 lakhs to the bereaved family of the SDO and five lakh rupees to other victims, Dr Paul said, “Mr Ibobi should not cover failures with a money game.

He must act immediately to stop the gruesome killings of the innocent either by anti-social elements or any others.”

Manipur bandh today

Tension after 3 bodies found

Imphal Feb 18 : Tension prevailed in Manipur today, after the dead bodies of Kasom Khulen Sub Divisional Officer Kishan, his driver and another staff were found near Taphou Kuki village on NH-39.

The trio had been abducted by unidentified armed people on 13 February from Ukhrul DC gate in Ukhrul District.

The three bodies were found with their hands tied behind their backs and their heads bearing grievous injuries. A bloody hoe and a medium sized stone ~ apparently used in killing them ~ were found near their bodies.

A Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed against the killings has called a 48-hour statewide bandh from midnight tonight. The JAC has demanded that the culprit be arrested and has refused to take charge of the bodies.

The JAC has blamed the NSCN(IM) for the killings. The JAC representative speaking at a Press conference said it had proof that Kishan and his staff members were killed by NSCN(IM) cadres.

It said, soon after the officer was abducted by the organisation, telephone calls from the Ukhrul DC office informed that Kishan had been taken away by a well known NSCN(IM) functionary in Kishans own government jeep.

The NSCN(IM), however, have denied any involvement in the killings. Condemning the killings spokesperson of the MIP told Newmai News Network that it has ordered an inquiry into the killing and has asked its cadres to book the persons involved. The NSCN(IM) also condemned the killing calling it a terrorist act.

Soon after the news of the killing spread angry locals at Uripok and Yumnam Leikai came out and blocked roads closed down shuttered at shops. Irate locals also took out a rally shouting anti-NSCN(IM) slogans.

The state government called an emergency meeting of the Unified Command which was soon followed up by a Cabinet meeting.

In another development colleagues of Dr. Kishan, all MCS officers converged at the CMs bungalow and submitted a memorandum demanding a CBI inquiry into the killing.

Tangkhul organizations condemns killing

Dimapur, February 18 : Consequent upon the recovery of the dead bodies of the kidnapped SDO of Kasem Khullen, Thingnam Kisham and his two subordinate staffs at Taphou Kuki in Senapati District, several apex Tangkhul organizations today termed the incident as shocking and said that the ‘barbaric act goes beyond tolerable limits of humanity’.

The different Tangkhul organisations strongly demanded speedy intervention of the concern authority to book the culprit under the law of the land at the earliest.

An emergency consultation meeting of the Thangkhul Naga Long, Thangkhul Katamnao Saklong, Thangkhul Shanao Long, Mayar Ngala Long, Thangkhul Naga Wungnao Long condemned the ‘gruesome incident’ in the strongest term and have even decided to call a 24 hour bandh starting from 6pm this evening .

“Killing of administrative Officer without any known reason is not only irrational but an insult and an attempt to degrade the entire civil populace,” stated a press statement received here today which was appended by the presidents of the TNL, TKS, TNWL, and TSL and the vice president of TMNL.

The organizations jointly demanded to know the modus operandi of the persons responsible for committing such a heinous crime. 

“If at all the deceased officer and his staffs deserves punishment of such a degree it should have come out public before taking up such stringent stations,” the release stated.

Meanwhile, the organisations have also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members.

Six including a woman assaulted at Moreh

Imphal, February 18 : Members of the MAPI Council coming back from Moreh including a woman were assaulted to injure by some unknown persons speaking Kuki dialect.

The incident occurred at around 9 pm at a spot near the Moreh Gate no.2 on the south of the Moreh police station.

The injured members of the Council were its general secretary Thangjam Shyamananda (32) son of Angou of Huikap Mayai Leikai, secretary organization Chungkham Romeo (44) son of Ibopishak of Brahmapur Chungkham Leikai, Moirangthem Khoidumbi (50) wife of Achou of Kongba Makha Nandeibam Leikai, Lourembam Gunachandra (32) son of Shyamsundor of Wangkhei Tokpam and Angom Joychandra (27) son of Thonglen of Kakching Khunou.

While strongly condemning the act of the miscreants, the MAPI Council today has demanded the state government to investigate into the incident and find out whether it was done out by the cadres of the Kuki militants included in the Suspension of Operation and booking of the culprits and punish them at the earliest.

Speaking at a press conference today at the office of the MAPI Council (Manipur Peace and Integrity Council) at Palace Compound, its president, Th Manihar recalled the incdent and said that the members of the Mapi Council went there in a bus together with members of the Human Rights Initiative and members of some Meira Paibi organizations for an organizational matter on February 15 .

The incident occurred when the bus with around 20 people parking nearby the Moreh Police Station owing to the brake failure and preparing for night stay at a hotel nearby.

As the place near the hotel they are lodging was not convenient place for vehicle parking, the bus parked to a public ground of the Moreh Meetei Council which is some 700 metre away from the hotel, he told.

He also said that to find out the miscreants involved in the assault incident has been taken by the Tribal Council Moreh but any untoward incident happened arising out of the incident, the council will not take any responsible.

The president further said that they will submit a memorandum to the chief minister who is also in-charge of the home portfolio.

The five members also present in the press conference.

Corpses of 3 kidnapped persons found in Senapati

Dimapur, February 18 : The bodies of the SDO of Kasem Khullen, Thingnam Kisham, and his two subordinate staffers who were reportedly kidnapped from somewhere in Ukhrul district while traveling on February 13 were recovered at Lukhrabi Thong near Kuki Taphou, Senapati district this morning.

The hands of the victims were tied from behind and their faces were smashed with stones, beyond recognition.

A press release received here from the office of the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) informing about the recovery of the dead bodies, while quoting reliable sources, said the three victims were kidnapped and ‘hijacked’ on February 13 from somewhere in Ukhrul district,  along with a Gypsy (MNG 0/45799).

The three were found murdered in cold blood on the morning of February 17 at Lukhrabi Thong, Senapati district.

The said vehicle is still missing, the release informed. 

In this connection, the Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), Senapati District Women Organisation (SDWA) and Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) strongly condemned the kidnapping and the ‘inhuman killing’ of the three persons and ‘demanded immediate necessary action from the concern authority.

 “The three apex organisation of the District demands immediate investigation and punishment of those culprits by the concern authority,” stated the release which was appended by the NPO general secretary, Simon Chawang, SDWA general secretary Pongdeila and the SDSA president Kuba Peter.

The three organizations also questioned those culprits ‘representing individuals or organisations’ as to why the victims were kidnapped from some other places and ‘such gruesome act’ be committed in the Senapati district “thereby creating negative image of the district which cannot be pardoned”. 

Furthermore, the three apex organizations of the district, while sharing the grief and sorrow with the bereaved family members, appealed to every responsible citizen and organization to condemn the merciless killing of innocent lives.

24 hr lightning bandh called in Ukhrul

Dimapur, February 17 (MExN): A lightning 24-hour bandh has been called in Ukhrul district with effect from 6 pm this evening by six Tangkhul organizations as a sign of protest against the killing of the SDO of Kasem Khullen, Thingnam Kisham and two subordinate staffs. Their   dead bodies were recovered at Lukhrabi Thong, Senapati district on February 17.

The three were reportedly abducted on February 13 by some unidentified persons while they were traveling in a Maruti Gypsy somewhere in Ukhrul. 

The six organizations namely Thangkhul Naga Long, Thangkhul Katamnao Saklong, Thangkhul Shanao Long, Mayar Ngala Long, Thangkhul Naga Wungnao Long called the bandh after an emergency consultation. During the bandh, no movement, except emergency cases, would be allowed. The organizations have appealed to the public for their fullest cooperation.

NSCN (IM) orders ‘investigation’

Dimapur | February 18
Strongly condemning the killing of Subdivisional Officer (SDO) of Khasom Khullen, Dr Thinam Kishan and two others, the NSCN-IM has said tonight that the outfit has ordered investigations to book the culprits at the earliest possible time.

The NSCN(IM) “ministry of information and publicity” has informed Newmai News Network tonight that it has nothing to do with the incident and said such heinous crimes should be condemned by all sections of the society.

Pledging to book and award befitting punishment to the culprits involved in the killing of the SDO and two others, the NSCN (IM) has said the killing of the officials was carried out by vested interests to ‘create unnecessary unrest in the society’.

The NSCN (IM) appeals to the public not to spread rumours but to remain calm saying that the outfit would put its utmost effort to book the culprits at the earliest.

Cabinet fixes hiked pay for JNIMS Profs

Imphal, February 18 : With the State Government intent on setting up a State Government Medical College by rechristening the Jawaharal Nehru Hospital to the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, the State Cabinet which met today has agreed to revise the proposed pay structure of the faculty members, so as to attract professionals from outside the State.

As per a decision taken during a Cabinet seating chaired by the Chief Minister today evening, it was agreed that to attract the best brains in the field, the pay should be Rs 1.2 lakhs per Professor for three Professors who would be needed.

Over and above this it was decided that their increment will be to the tune of three PC every year in addition to the State bearing the cost of their water supply.

Other than this the Cabinet has also decided to extend the last date for the submission for the application forms from the earlier deadline of February 12 to 20, said the source.

The Cabinet also discussed about the possibility of posting an official of the rank of a DSP to look after the security of the Governor and the Chief Minister.

The meeting also decided to rechristen the Food and Civil Supplies Department to Consumers Food Affairs and Public Distribution.

Along with this the Cabinet has also decided to bring the Weights and Measures Department under the newly christened Department, said the source.

A Bill to amend the rules of the Shree Shree Govindajee Temple Board will be introduced in the upcoming Assembly session for due amendments, said the source and added that the amendments are aimed at allowing the festivities of Umang Lais to be held under the aegis of the said Board.

The Cabinet also fixed the price for the land acquisition for the widening of the road from Thong Nambonbi to Haobam Marak, Waheng Leikai to Tera Bazar, from Keishampat to Tulihal airport as well for land acquisition to bring up the Oil Depot at Malom.

MCS officers decry, condole

Imphal, February 18 : The All Manipur MCS Officers' Association has strongly condemned the brutal murder of Kasom Khullen SDO Dr Thingnam Kishan and his two staff in the strongest term.

The association has also condoled the demise of SDO Dr Thingnam Kishan, Driver Rajen Sharma and Mandol Y Token during a meeting held today.

Members present in the meeting also observed a two minute silence as a mark of respect to the departed souls.

After deliberating on the gruesome murder of the three Government employees, the MCS officers resolved to submit a memorandum with a demand to hand over the murder case to CBI for immediate investigation.

Other demands of the memorandum include provision of a suitable Government job to the immediate dependent or next of kin and provision of an amount of not less than Rs 20 lakhs as special one time grant of ex-gratia.

Similar facilities should be provided to the other two staff who were murdered along with the Kasom Khullen SDO.

All cost for the education of the children of the deceased officials should be borne by the State at least up to class XII, it demanded.

Taking into account of the insecure situation prevailing in their respective places of posting, the MCS officers appealed to the Government to take up necessary actions immediately so that the officers can function effectively and efficiently with a better sense of security.

They further asked the State Government to allow them function from their respective district headquarters till appropriate security arrangements are made.

The MCS officers also resolved to take mass casual leave and stage a sit in protest on the day of the aasti.

Manipur Minister inspects NREGS works

Imphal, February 18 : Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Md Allaudin Khan visited different areas of Bishnupur district and personally inspected the works taken up under NREGS today.

The Minister has also decided to recommend Bishnupur DC Aleng A Shimray for an excellency award for implementing programmes under strict financial discipline.

RD & PR Minister Md Allaudin Khan was accompanied by Kumbi A/C MLA N Mangi, DC Aleng A Shimray and many relevant officials during his inspection tour today.

The team inspected the minor irrigation canal being made alongsides the road from Toubul to Yangoilok under Toubul Gram Panchayat, road embankment work and drain being constructed Charolokchao to Loktak under Thinungei GP and also the minor irrigation canal being made from Khujairok to Haraorou.

Visibly satisfied with the manner of working and proper utilisation of sanctioned funds, Md Allaudin Khan said that he would recommend an excellency award for the Bishnupur DC to the State Government.

The team also inspected the NREGS works being executed in Phubala GP, Moirang Khunou GP and Ngangkhalawai GP.

Later speaking to reporters, Md Allaudin Khan said that he would make inspection visits to hill districts after covering the valley districts.

While observing that NREGS works being executed in Thoubal and Bishnupur districts are satisfactory, the Minister disclosed that several discrepancies were detected in Imphal West district.

While some Panchayats have no work place, local bodies of some other Panchayats are unable to find work places to implement the NREGS, Allaudin said.

He further stated that no money will be released for those Gram Panchayats where machines are put into service in NREGS works.

Five MAPI Council members assaulted

Imphal, February 18 : Five members of the MAPI Council were severely assaulted by suspected UG cadres on their way back from Moreh to Imphal on February 15 .

Strangely, the spot where the MAPI Council members were physically assaulted by the unidentified armed persons was just near the Moreh police station.

The victims of the assault are Lourembam Gunachandra of Wangkhei Tokpam Leikai, Moirangthem Khoidumbi of Kongba Makha Nandeibam Leikai, Angom Joychandra of Kakching Khunou, Thangjam Samananda (Assistant Secretary) of Huikap Mayai Leikai and Chungkham Romeo (secretary organisation) of Brahmapur Chungkham Leikai.

Speaking to reporters today, Chungkham Romeo said that the incident took place when they were returning back to a house located just adjacent to Moreh police station after parking their vehicle in the office of the MCM.

As they approached the gate of the house, some armed persons who came in a van from the direction of Moreh gate number 2 and clad in camouflage dress started thrashing without saying anything.

The assailants spoke Kuki dialect, Romeo said.

A case has been registered in Moreh police station in this connection, he said.

MAPI Council president Th Manihar said that he would not like to flare up such small incidents.

Yet he expressed apprehension if such small incidents would affect integrity of the State.

He also sought attention of the Chief Minister to resolve the matter amicably in case the assailants belong to a group currently under SoO pact with the Government.

He also appreciated the reported assurance of the HTC that they would work to bring an understanding on the matter by February 21 .

No agenda to solve water scarcity in Manipur

Imphal, February 18 : Even as Imphal city is griped with water scarcity problem � roads in some localities covered with powder of dusty soil, the water bowls of each household remain dry, and cracks developed in some scraps of land owing to no rainfall within the last three or four months � the labyrinth and corridors of the PHED campus at Porompat have been filled with muddy water that has leaked from the water supply tankers trading in supply business.

It has been almost three months the state had experienced no rainfall.

This being the reason, pipe water supply systems, the main source of water to every locality within Imphal, ceased to flush water to the public and remain dry.

As such, the localities are hit by water scarcity problem.

To countenance this challenge, the people had to buy water � the elixir of life � from tankers for their daily uses.

Sagolband areas, Tera areas, Singjamei areas, Kwakeithel areas, Haobam Marak areas have witnessed no pipe water delivery since the last two months, according to reports.

Interacting with Hueiyen News Service on water scarcity matter, Haobam 0ngbi Ichechaobi of Sagolband Meinou Leirak said that two months had lapsed when the last tub was filled with drops of their locality's pipe water supply.

As such, in the absence of public Ponds in their Leikai, the local publics are constrained to get water from water tankers.

The coffer of an individual gets poorer by Rs 600/700 in a month in getting water from the suppliers, she said.

She further said that local MLAs, ministers, and councilors may be aware of the scarcity of water in the localities but sadly there has been no single occasion when they bother to distribute water to the local populace.

She also rued that for families which have no regular source of income, getting water from the suppliers is an added burden.

Potshangbam Ibotombi of Singjamei Chingamakha reveals that his locality is not getting pipe water supply since the past two or more years.

He said that getting water from the tankers for that long has adversely affected the economy of the people.

He laments that the government is not even bothered to ensure proper water supply system thus far.

He even feels regretful of sanctioning huge amount of money by the authority to fix water pipe just to let it remained buried under the earth.

He also wonders how the government is going to provide adequate water to interior areas even when they could not supply water to Imphal areas even sparsely.

Conversely, the irony lurks somewhere here.

Even as the people are faced with water shortage problem, the Water Supply at Porompat in Imphal East is doing a good business by selling around 150 tankers a day at an average.

Individuals have been supplied water at the rate of Rs 100 per Tata Tanker, Rs 20 per Auto-rickshaw, Rs 30 per Jeep/DI Tata.

However, a sum of Rs 50 per Tata, Rs 5 per Auto-rickshaw, Rs 10 per Jeep/DI Tata has been charged by the department concerned from the individual water tanker suppliers, an official from the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) disclosed to HNS.

Interestingly though, there is no agenda to disburse water free of cost to the needy people by the concerned government department as of now, the official said.

He however said that there is a programme to disburse water free of cost to the people in case the state continues to experience no rainfall till March.

Ensure 100 days works to job card holders: Allauddin says

Imphal, February 18 : Rural Development and Panchayati Raj minister, Md Allauddin today said that his department will assumed pradhans doing wrong if they could not provide 100 days works to the NREGS job card holders within March 31, 2009 .

Meanwhile, minister's inspection to works sites where works have been taken up under the NREGS across the four valleys concluded today.

On the last day he inspected various work sites located in the interior places in Bishnupur district.

He was accompanied by the DC, Bishnupur AS Shimray and other concern government officials.

The places where Allauddin inspected included improvement of three km long canal from Bishnupur to Toupul, from PHSC to Loktak canal lying the under jurisdiction of Toupul gram panchayat, ground leveling and digging of local pond, black topping of road connecting Ngakchoupokpi under the PMGSRY and three km long canal from Charoi Lokchao to Chaning Loukon and Khujairok to Haroubi Loukon under the Thinungei Gram Panchayat.

He also inspected works taken within the Phubabala Gram panchayat like clearing of canals from Awang River to Singeibok, water harvesting pond at Moirang Khunou under Moirang Khunou GP, improvement works of three kilometer long inter-village road (IVR) at Haotak pat and other works taken in the adjoining areas like Kwakta Charangpat, Kumbi etc.

On seeing the working nature of there, minister expressed dissatisfied and said that he will review it.

He also said that on all round observation, the implementation of works in Bishnupur is the best among the valley districts.

He also credited it to the DC, Aleng Shimray of the district and lauded him for his sincere work in the implementation of the NREGS scheme.

Commenting on his series of visit to various work places in various parts of the districts under NREGS, he said that 80% of the works have been completed and asked the authorities of the NREGS to ensure 100 days works to the card holders.

If 200 days works could not be given to the card holders, concern authorities would be asked to make up it in the next financial year.

Allauddin also said that if 100 days works could not be arranged, then it will be treated as weakness of the pradhan.

So concern authorities should called meetings and discuss on how to arrange and improve in imparting works to the job card holders.

He also said that as it was the first time, the work being taken up under the scheme in the valley areas, there have been many flaws but it will be improved in the years to come, he added.

Youths rush for recruitment

Imphal, February 17 : Amidst hue and cry of the issue of Special Police Officers (SPOs) of Heirok, Thoubal district, for the alleged negligence by the state government, recruitment rally for Village Defence Force (VDF) begins on Monday in three districts of Thoubal, Imphal West and Bishnupur.

According to reports, the Monday recruitment witnessed a huge turn-out of youths in the Thoubal district while it was a low turn-out in Imphal West and Bishnupur districts.

Atleast 3000 youths turned up at Thoubal Basu ground while about a thousand turned up for the recruitment in Imphal West district which was held at the 2nd Manipur Rifles' battalion ground and about 800 turned up for Bishnupur district.

Official reports said that Thoubal will recruit 500 VDF while 350 each be recruited for Imphal West and Bishnupur districts.

The recruitment will continue for atleast two to three days, as per the reports.

Talking to media persons during the rally, senior superintendent of the Imphal West district police, L.Kailun, said that the VDF will receive a sum of Rs.3000/ each as monthly salary besides ration and uniforms etc.

He also said that the initial training period for the VDF will be for one year which could be extended and added that they will be posted at their concerned police outposts.

Interacting with the media at the recruitment rally, one Ch.

Khogen, 21, of Nambol Bishnupur district, a ten standard student, revealed that he decided to joint the VDF so as to defend his village and added that he is a job seeker and had never taken part in any recruitment rally.

Another youth, Themba, 21, of Heigrujam Mamang Leikai, Imphal West district, a student of eleven standard revealed that this is the second time that he has to take part in such recruitment.

Three DSOs placed under suspension

Imphal, February 17 : On the charge that they went to the camp of the United People's Party of Kangleipak voluntarily in response to the summon of the armed outfit, FCS Minister Y Erabot has issued stern instructions to the FCS Commissioner to suspend three District Supply Officers (DSOs) .

On the other hand, preliminary report of the departmental enquiry conducted by three FCS officials in the aftermath of the seizure of 1002.44 quintals of rice (Super Fine grade A) from a private godown at Mantripukhri by the FCS Minister has been submitted to the Government today.

The three DSOs against whom instructions have been issued for suspension are S Iboton for Imphal West, W Deben for Imphal East and Th Bhumeshore of Bishnupur district.

The three DSOs were in the custody of the UPPK since January 30 till they were released on February 8 in connection with a rice scam.

Meanwhile, a notification issued by the FCS Department has put the three DSOs under suspension.

Speaking to The Sangai Express, FCS Minister Erabot asserted that the three DSOs went to the camp of UPPK voluntarily.

They were not abducted by UPPK activists, he asserted.

As it is known that they went to the camp of UPPK voluntarily without any knowledge of the Government in violation of the Government's standing order that no Government employee should comply with summons from any insurgent group, the FCS Commissioner has been instructed to suspend the three DSOs, conveyed Erabot.

The Minister also appealed to all responsible Government employees to abide by the Government standing order and also to perform their duties scrupulously and sincerely.

Since the day he took over the FCS Department, inquiries into several irregularities prevalent in the Department have revealed that more than 7000 quintals of rice have gone missing, Erabot disclosed.

Informing that he has received preliminary report of the investigation made in connection with the seizure of 1002.44 quintals of rice along with six trucks on February 12 from an illegal private godown located at Mantripukhri, the Minister conveyed that the FCS Director has been directed to submit a detailed report after conducting further inquiry into the matter within the current month.

Preliminary report of the investigation conducted by FCS Deputy Director Kh Raghumani, DSO RK Binoy and Assistant Director N Meghachandra mentioned about drivers of the seized trucks disclosing to one Lalan that the seized rice was lifted from Sangaiprou FCI godown without necessary documents.

The seized rice was meant for rehabilitation purposes.

The FCS Minister has instructed the FCS Director to conduct further enquiry on six points.

Night landing facility in Imphal ready for trial run

Imphal, February 17 : With installation of the Solar Power Obstruction Light (SPOL) at five hill tops almost complete, written intimation has been sent to the Ministry of Civil Aviation to fix a date for a trial night landing at the Imphal airport.

An official source informed The Sangai Express that the Joint General Manager of the Airport Authority of India stationed at Imphal wrote to the Director General of the Ministry of Civil Aviation about a week back to fix a date to conduct trial night landing at Tulihal Airport.

However, the Ministry of Civil Aviation will be sending a team of AAI to the State first to look into SPOLs installed at five hill tops before deciding on the technical feasibility of landing aircrafts at Imphal airport in the night, informed the source further.

The Joint General Manager stationed at Imphal has already appealed to the Chief Minister to approach the Ministry of Civil Aviation at Government level so that night landing at Tulihal Airport can be commenced shortly, added the source.

Market complex in Imphal East district

Imphal, February 17 : The State Government has initiated plans to construct a market complex in Imphal East district.

The Government is planning to build the market complex at Nongmeibung where the Raja Dumbra High School stands today.

Earlier, the State Government was planning to build an Air Hostess Academy at the same site.

A meeting presided by Chief Minister O Ibobi was held today at his office today.

The meeting attended by Industries Minister Y Erabot, Deputy Chairman of State Planning Board E Kunjakeshore and officials of Town Planning Board discussed the construction of a new market complex.

The meeting deliberated on demolishing the Raja Dumbra High School building to construct a market complex at its compound under the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission.

It was noted that the proposed market complex would benefit people of Kshetrigao and Yaiskul Assembly segments particularly in the field of commercial activities.

Moreover, it would be able to bring noticeable development in the surrounding area.

Taking into account the congestion in Pureiromba market, lack of parking space, frequent fairs at Hatta Kangjeibung and the annual Kang procession in addition to the upcoming cultural complex which would make the area all the more congested, the meeting deliberated on keeping the area vacant.

Trophy goof-up mars Polo

Imphal, February 17 : In an embarrassing goof-up, both the champion team and runners-up team of the 26th State Level Polo Tournament have been awarded trophies inscribed with the word "Winner".

The tournament participated by 10 teams was organised by the All Manipur Polo Association.

Entry fee for the tournament was Rs 1100 for each team.

Two trophies saying the two teams are both champions

In the final match played at Imphal Polo ground today, Thoubal district Polo Association defeated Chingkheihunba Polo Association, Khurai Kongpal 6-1 .

Members of the Thoubal District Polo Association led by its secretary Soibam Inaocha came to the office of this newspaper this evening and showed the trophies given to the champions and runner-up team.

They also brought another worn-out old trophy given to the runner-up team.

They said that no member of the tournament organising committee could be seen at the end of the final match today.

They further lamented that there was no cash prize with the champions trophy.

Surajkund fair ends amidst colourful performances

Surajkund (Har), Feb 16 : The 15-day Surajkund&aposMela'(fair) which was witnessed by nearly eight lakh people, including over 10,000 foreigners, today came to an end.

It finished with a colourful show of folk dances and music from the&apostheme state' Madhya Pradesh and the host state Haryana.

Attending the concluding function here, state Governor A R Kidwai distributed prize to various artisans.

More than 7.5 lakh visitors attended this year&aposs fair which saw participation of foreign countries such as Egypt, Thailand and SAARC countries sans Pakistan and Maldives.

"Sri Lanka has shown keen interest in organising a similar Mela. They have sought mutual cooperation from Surajkund Mela Authority. This implies that the popularity of the Mela is growing day by day," Kidwai said.

The Governor also interacted with the craftspersons, including those from Egypt, SAARC countries and Thailand and the folk artists.

Firing at Mapithel Dam; 7 missing

Imphal, February 16 : In another event in Mapithel dam’s troubled history, seven persons from Louphong village in Manipur are reported to have been picked up by a combined force of Assam Rifles and IRB.

The persons’ whereabouts remain unknown ever since they were taken away on February 13 and the 14th.

It is reported that the persons were brutally assaulted by the security forces before being taken away.

As per reports, there was a firing encounter on February 13 in the vicinity of the dam’s site between some unidentified gunmen believed to be of an armed organization and Indian Reserved Battalion.

Following the firing incident, the area has been cordoned off by the armed forces and intensive search operations are being carried out in the region.

According to reliable sources, curfew has been imposed in the entire area while villagers were grouped together and disallowed from venturing out of the village.

The area falls under Litan police station. However, the police station in concern denied having any knowledge about the information on the missing persons. 

Among the missing persons, S. Ngathingkhui, 53, son of one Late. S.  Sathengba was picked up on February 3, while the rest were picked up in the morning of 14 February. 

Residents of Mapithel Dam (Thoubal multipurpose dam) are experiencing relentless hardships ever since their land was heavily militarised. Mention may be made here that on November 3, last year women protestors peacefully agitating the dam construction, were severely assaulted by Manipur Police and IR.

The missing persons are S Baner, 23 son of S.Ramthar; Kh. Thotmathing, 23, son of Kh. Samphang; S. Mathew, 48, son of Late. S Lungteiba; Kh. David, 52, son of Late Kh. Punaoleng; Kh. Vareimi, 25, son of Putting; KS Vareshim, 28, son of Ks. Asph and S. Nagthingkhui, 53, son of Late. S. Sathengba.

Manipur players bag team title

National Wushu

Imphal, Feb 14 : Manipur players took the overall team champions’ title bagging 28 medals, including 14 gold in the 17th Senior National Wushu Championship held at Naded, Maharashtra, from February 1-7.

In the Taolu routine event, Ng. Toshibala Chanu won four gold medals, L. Sanatombi Chanu claimed two gold, A. Sanathoibi Devi bagged one gold and three silver, Y. Sapana Devi clinched two gold and two silver, and S. Boro Singh claimed two silver and one bronze. L. Ratan won one gold and one silver in the same routine, while G. Indrakumar laid claim on one gold and two bronze. L. Jhalajit won one gold and one bronze. 

In the Sanshou event, Y. Sanathoi Singh and Ng. Ibemcha Devi claimed one gold each while Th. Romajit, H. Gagarin and H. Gangapati Devi bagged one silver each.

Armed villagers threaten to form independent org

Imphal | February 14 : Alleging that they have been ignored for long by the state government, the Special Police Officers (SPOs) (armed villagers) of Heirok in Manipur's Thoubal district have threatened to withdraw their status as SPOs and instead form another independent organisation to safeguard their village.

This comes even as the central government has directed the government of Manipur for recruiting more SPOs in the state.

While informing this during a press conference held on Friday at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal the group commander of the SPO C-Company, Thokchom Romen, revealed that SPOs are morally down following the apathy of the state government. Inspite of many revolts from time to time by the SPOs demanding their rights, including submitting a memorandum to the Union home minister, the government is still silent, rued Romen and informed that one of the 300 SPOs has joint the Army.

He pointed out that the SPOs were confined at the Pangei training centre even after their training duration was over following which the SPOs resorted to hunger strike. They were later transferred to Heirok with the assurance of providing necessary requirements including setting up of separate barrack and regular duty, however till date no necessary requirement are met, except salary and reporting at the attached security post, asserted Romen.

The commander of the SPO C-Company also informed that the step of the government to convert the SPOs into Village Defence Force (VDF) will not be accepted and added that all if government fails to intervene immediately to address the grievances of the SPOs they will form a separate independent organization to protect the village of Heirok.

Following the direction of the central government a state cabinet meeting in January has also approved for recruitment of 10,350 SPOs and the recruitment process will be started on February 15.
It is worth mentioning that SPOs were established by the state government recently following the arms demands made by the villagers of Heirok and other localities in the Manipur valley to defend and protect themseles from certain quarters.

Three more FIRs lodged against Meghalaya minister

Shillong , Feb 12 Three more FIRs have been lodged against controversial Meghalaya Mining and Geology minister Donkupar Massar accusing him of threatening, kidnapping and assaulting voters during the Khasi Hills District Autonomous Council elections in the state.

Police said three cars of the minister were torched by a mob at Pynursla in East Khasi Hills district last evening after the minister allegedly threatened and assaulted some voters in the Nongshken area from where his wife Grace Mary Kharpuri was contesting the polls held yesterday.

" Police are studying in detail the FIRs filed against Massar by some people," East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police A R Mawthoh said, adding all the victims had been sent for medical examination.

He confirmed that the minister was questioned at the Sadar police station last night but was released later.

East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner B Dhar said,"we will look into the documents related to the Massar case before deciding on the future course of action in the matter."

Massar is already under police probe in connection with three other criminal cases registered against him on charges of assault and threats.

Three kidnapped officials freed by militants in Manipur

Imphal, Feb 12 : Three officials of Manipur food and civil supply (FCS) department, kidnapped by a militant outfit, were freed, official sources said on Wednesday.

The United People's Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) had abducted district FCS officers - S Iboton, W Deben and Th Bhumeswar - on January 30 last suspecting them of selling rice meant for public at exorbitant rate.

The outfit had demanded Rs. 3 crore for safe release of the three officials. 

The UPPK said they had freed the officials on Tuesdayafter knowing that they were not involved in the sale of the public rice. 

The outfit demanded payment of Rs. three crore to the outfit by FCS minister Y Erabot and department commissioner S Budhachandra before February 17, alleging the department was selling rice at exorbitant rate.

CM pulls up DCs for non-participation in NREGS photo exhibition

Allauddin continues inspection

Imphal, February 12 : State chief Minister O Ibobi has instructed the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of all nine districts to give explanation within 18 days why Manipur stall was not opened in the photo exhibition of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) in New Delhi recently.

This information was divulged by Minister of Panchayati Raj & Rural Development, Minority and Other Backward Classes (MOBC) and Fisheries, Md Allauddin Khan to media persons today.

He told media persons that it came to light after it was published in newspapers that Manipur's stall was absent in the NREGS Photo Exhibition.

In fact, the works under NREGS were being successfully done in Manipur despite plenty of hindrances making the state occupy the first position among the North Eastern States, Minister Allauddin said.

He has already submitted a written complaint to the Chief Minister asking him to take appropriate action regarding the non-participation of Manipur in the NREGS Photo Exhibition held in New Delhi, the Minister revealed.

Minister Allauddin, accompanied by officials of concerned yesterday visited different places in Imphal east districts to inspect if the works under NREGS were being carried out properly and as per rules.

Today also the Minister along with officials concerned went to different sites in Imphal west district where works under NREGS were being done.

The Minister and the officials found set of stairs being not constructed in the various community ponds owing to lack of material components for the labourers.

The Minister said, 70% of the progress of the works inImphal East and West district has been completed, the remaining 30% will be completed soon in consultation with the State Council.

In the first phase of the NREGS, there were certainly shortcomings in the method of works.

But from 2009-10, the government would try to implement the scheme fully.

After overseeing all the works done in nine districts of the state, the government would find out where the shortcomings were and try to correct them, he said.

He said that the works were handing over to the Panchayats.

The Panchayats have also a mistake for not holding meetings frequently.

If the NREGS works to be done completely, it is necessary that the Panchayat Members and the Zilla Parishad Members should hold meetings with the local MLAs, the Minister said.

Md Allauddin further said, it has been found that many persons whose names were not in the sanctioned list were among those who got 100 days' job.

Because of such anomalies, job card holders have started complaining that they have not received their payment, and that the Minister concerned should resigned.

However, in a state like Manipur where a lot of obstacles are created by various factors, it can be said that the progress of the works has been made 100%, he said.

Director of RD & PR, Y Neta told newspersons that the BDOs should personally oversee the works.

However, it has been found that the district level officers and SOs did not look after the works fully.

They would be given instructions to oversee the works completely.

The Minister and the officials inspected the community pond being dug at Takyel Khongban Ward No-2, the community pond of Takyel Khongban Ward No-4, Thokchom Pukhri being dug at Ward No-5 Heinoupok of Langjing Achouba Gram Panchayat, and several others in the adjoining areas.

Workers also complained to the Minister about several things.

Manipur Tribal land ownership discussed at seminar

Churachandpur, Feb 11 : A one-day seminar organised by the Churachandpur District Students` Union, CDSU, on the topic `Tribal land ownership and development in Manipur` was held today at the KKL complex, Headquarter Veng.

A seminar paper was presented by the Outer Manipur member of parlaiment, MP Cheranamei on the topic `Land and forest` while K Vungzamawi, a lecturer presented a paper on `Tribal land ownership and development`.

During the seminar Cheranamei said that ours was a land-based economy and land was the most important factor in the tribal based economy. But we somehow failed to maintain and manage our land due to primarily ignorance.

"In spite of the fact that government had created a department to assist in the management but it has not done enough in the direction, he said.The MP said he wanted political empowerment of the tribals of the state in any possible way adding that he played a role in making the SoO agreement possible, in the Indo-Naga peace talks, setting up of Indo-Myanmar border trade at Behiang, and inter village road connectivity and so on along with a possible helicopter service to the interior areas, setting up of a railway ticket counter and raising of the level of quotas by 7.5 percent in the railway exams.

Officials to speak at Vietnam summit

New Delhi, February 11 : With an aim to attracting more investment from the ASEAN countries to the North Eastern states, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in association with the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Indian Diplomatic Mission in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industries is organising a three-day ASEAN North East India Investment and Trade Opportunities Summit at White Palace, 194 Hoang Van Thu in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam from February 12 to 14 this year.

Officials at the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) said the event was being organised in Vietnam so as to ensure maximum participation from the ASEAN countries.

They said all the chief ministers of the region had been invited to the meet to showcase their states as attractive investment destination.

The DoNER Ministry had earlier organised a North East India Trade and Investment Opportunities Week in Bangkok and a North East Investment Opportunity Day in New York.

The decision to hold an investment week in Vietnam came after envoys and representatives of over 10 ASEAN countries participated in the 4th North East Business summit, which was held in Guwahati in September 2008.The Summit generated a high degree of investment interest in the region by the ASEAN countries and now we want to take it forward, officials said.

They said ASEAN countries as well as many European nations have also shown their interest in investing in the region.

We are also planning to take envoys of many European nations to the North East as they have also shown keen interest in investing in the region, they said.

Officials said even envoys of some Arab countries have also expressed interest in visiting the region to explore possibilities for investment.

The State delegations from the North East States today left their respective states to proceed to Ho Chi Minh City for the ASEAN North East India Investment and Opportunities Summit.

The State delegations will discuss trade and investment in the agriculture, infrastructure, tourism and IT sectors with their Vietnamese counterparts at the event.

ources from DoNER Ministry said more than 70 companies from different business sectors in North East India had already confirmed their participation in the event.

A high profile delegation of corporate organizations from various parts of India will be present in the Ho Chi Minh City for the summit and have their first time one-to-one meeting with Vietnamese counterparts.

Laos Minister of Industries and Commerce Dr.

Nam Viyaketh will deliver the inaugural address on February 12 in the presence of Ministers of the North- Eastern States of India and dignitaries from Vietnam and India.

In the inaugural session, the Secretary General of Indian Chamber of Commerce Dr Rajeev Singh will deliver welcome address.

It will be followed by a multimedia presentation on Opportunities Unlimited with introducing the North East India.

Secretary of DoNER Jarnail Singh will present keynote address.

Tourism Minister of Meghalaya Conrad Sangma, Trade and Commerce Minister of Mizoram Lalrinliana Sailo and Agriculture Minister of Sikkim Somnath Paudyal will make special address to the gathering.

Deputy Minister of Vietnam Bin Xuan Khu will also deliver his speech as Guest of Honour.

It will be followed by the inaugural address of Dr Nam Viyaketh.

The inauguration of Exhibition of the Product of North East India will take place on the first day.

The Session on Tourism to be held on the second day will be chaired by the Tourism Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K Sangma.

The Managing Director of Himalayan Holidays Tsering Wange will make presentation on tourism opportunities in North east India.

It will be followed by a panel discussion to be attended by Agriculture Minister of Sikkim Somnath Paudyal, Parliamentary Secretary of Nagaland Dr KC Nihoshe, Trade and Commerce Secretary of Mizoram Esther Lal Ruatkimi, Tourism Director of Manipur H Deleep and Industries and Commerce Director VG Jenner.

Peoples Committee of Ho Chi Minh City,department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vietnam will make a presentation on Ho Chi Minh City in respect of tourism.

In the Session of Infrastructure, Trade and Commerce Minister Lalrinliana Sailo will be the Chairman.

The Indian Chamber Commerce will make the infrastructure opportunities in North East India which will be followed by a panel discussion of Agriculture Minister of Sikkim Somnath Paudyal, Chief Secretary of Meghalaya Ranjan Chatterji, Commissioner of Nagaland Imkonglemba, Industries and Commerce Director of Tripura V.G.Jenner and Superintendent Engineer of Power, Manipur N Dwijen.

In the Session on agriculture, Food Processing, Handlomm and Handicrafts, Agriculture Minister of Sikkim Somnath Paudyal will be the Chairman.

Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre, India Director and president of World Bamboo association Kamesh Salam will make presentation on agro and food opportunities in North East India which will be followed by a panel discussion comprising of Parliamentary Secretary of Nagaland Dr KC Neosho, Principal Secretary of Meghalaya VS Oberoi , Industries and Commerce Director of Tripura VG Jenner, Managing Director of Manipur Food industries Corporation Ltd.

N Joykumar and Mizoram Entrepreneurship Network Joseph I.Ralte .

In the afternoon of the second day, there will be a session on Cambodia Lao-Vietnam Development Triangle (CLV-DT) and NE India with Secretary of DoNER Jarnail Singh in the chair.

In the session, Additional Chief Secretary (Planning) of Manipur DS Poonia will make presentation.

It will be followed by one-to-one meetings.

In the valedictory session on February 14, the topic on-South east Regional Integration-Building International Partnerships will be discussed by eminent leaders from the countries namely Singapore, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Canada, Malayasia, Korea, Lao, Bangladesh and Cambodia.

It will be followed by one-to-one meetings exclusively between Indian delegates and foreign delegates present in Vietnam so that the concrete business and investment deals can be generated in the near future.

Disease breeding drains haunt Imphal

Imphal, February 9 : Contrary to drainage system in human settlement zones conceptualised as a way to wash away waste materials that would enable citizens live a healthy life the very system, if we can call it a sytem, in the capital city, according to many, has turned into a breeding ground for diseases.

A random survey conducted by The Sangai Express as part of 'My City, My Life', stumbled upon almost the entire drains in the city areas clogged and prone to disease outbreaks thereby endangering the citizens.

Some outstanding reasons pointed out by those associated with the issue on why the drainage system of the capital city remain a failed case include clogging, similar level of drains compared to road surface and absolute absence of initiative to dredge the river beds where water-waste combination can easily flow into.

A clogged Nambul river offers the best site for germs to breed

Encroachment upon natural waterways is another important deterrent hampering smooth draining of wastes, they pointed out.

The capital city divided into 27 municipal wards annually witnesses inundation at the slightest drizzle with the citizens the ultimate sufferers not only in wadding through the water-logged roads but having to endure seasonal outbreak of diseases.

It is a common sight rather than an exception that the drainage systems in the entire Imphal Municipal Council area remain under murky water with construction works of the system reduced to an eyewash as such an initiative remain incomplete.

Frankly speaking certain portions of drainage system in a particular locality are constructed with a tell-tale sign of the contractor concerned being the only beneficiary as the water-waste flow is stagnant due to incomplete connectivity to the main drain.

Here, the Government is not the lone defaulter as the citizens too seem to remain indifferent regarding importance of drains to keep away potential disease onslaught as drains are considered to be waste dumping sites.

It should not be lost on the part of the citizens that water pipes are laid along or close to drains.

Commenting on the issue, Ward No-4 Councillor Manoharmayum Bimolchandra, a resident of Nagamapal Singjubung Leirak expressed outrage at the sight of drains being clogged with plastic wastes (polythene bags/pouch) and strongly advocated awareness among the citizens for collection and dumping away the menace at a proper place.

pointing out that level of drains are deeper than that of streams/rivers consequently preventing flow of wastes, the Councillor also suggested regular dredging of river beds which was a common exercise during the rule of kings.

He also warned of dangers posed by clogged drains with the reference that pipes for drinking water are laid along the local drain.

Sharing his views, ward No-14 Councillor Haobam Santosh not only lamented absence of well defined steps to construct and maintain drainage system of a locality but also regretted lack of aptitude of heavy vehicle operators who ignore the fact that local drains are susceptible to damage when narrow lanes are trampled upon.

Expressing that community servicing is an inevitable apparatus for proper maintenance of a locality's drainage system rather than wait for Government initiative, Santosh said pre-monsoon cleansing of drains would go a long way in preventing disease outbreaks.

Significantly, Th Bijen, who is the Implementation Committee Convenor of Imphal Municipal Council overseeing works being taken up under the Ministry of urban Development's Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewable Mission conceded that drainage system in and around the capital city requires immediate attention as they are in a highly deplorable condition.

Noting that drain construction works in the past were carried without proper planning or taking into account the city structure and ways to drain out excess wastes with water, he attributed such lack of foresight as the chief factor for failure of drainage system and frequent inundation of localities.

Striking a positive posture, the Convenor confided of a five member team of Hyderabad-based National Consultancy for Planning and Engineering of conducting a survey since january 7 to realign the Imphal drainage systems in order to ensure existence of a functional system.

Awakening the citizens that Kongba, Nambul and Imphal rivers are the main waterways that used to carry away waste materials from Imphal areas, Bijen urged the people to inculcate civic sense and contribute their mite in saving the capital city.

Highlighting health hazards posed to the citizens due to clogging of drains, Additional Director (Public Health) of the State's Health Department Dr Bhubonchandra iterated that stagnant drains become breeding ground for mosquitoes and flies.

Buzzing of mosquitoes even during winter months which had been a common phenomenon for the last many years is an example of Imphal area drains remaining clogged, he explained.

Cautioning that citizens would continue to suffer in case the drainage system remain in the same perilous condition, Dr Bhubonchandra elaborated that with most water pipes laid near or along drains there is high possible of germ infected water seeping into leaked pipes through which drinking water are carried.

Consumption of contaminated water causes diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid, malaria, diarrhoea, infection of eyes etc.

USER study method decried

Imphal, February 9 : The All Manipur NGO Partners' Consortium on HIV/AIDS has condemned the 'situational analysis' made by USER Manipur reportedly without properly studying the activities undertaken by NGOs established under NACO and MACS in Manipur towards controlling AIDS in the State.

Speaking to media persons at its Thangmeiband Yumnam Leikai office today, president of the Manipur NGO Partners' Consortium on HIV/AIDS Y Surchandra said that it took strong exception to the recent drive undertaken by USER Manipur at some Drop-in Centres, run by NGOs, working in the field of HIV/AIDS, in the name of situational analysis for it lacked authenticity and proper monitoring tool besides not giving prior information.

Situational analysis or research works conducted by any social organisation including the USER Manipur are welcome provided their works have definite objectives and follow correct process, Surchandra said while hinting at some hidden agenda behind the sudden drive undertaken by USER Manipur without permission of the relevant authority and without giving any prior information.

Because of all these reasons, partner NGOs of the consortium have decided not to extend cooperation to any such "unauthenticated drive" undertaken by USER Manipur in future, he informed.

Further, project staff involved in providing false information to USER Manipur without any knowledge of chief functionaries will be suspended, Surchandra said.

For any untoward affect resulting from media reports which seemed to be accusing NGOs without doing proper analysis of their operational mechanism about all published programmes, the USER Manipur should be held responsible, he asserted.

Seminar on peace and development with focus on Manipur held in New Delhi

NEW DELHI, Feb 9 : The Gandhi Peace Foundation organized a seminar on the theme `Peace is essential for development` with a reference to Manipur on Saturday at the conference hall of the foundation at 221-223 Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg here.

In his key note address, Prof. Imtiaz Ahmed, former professor of the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi stated that Manipur had been facing a problem of militancy for a long time. Numerous armed militant groups raised on ethnic lines had emerged. The level of violence in the state had consistently remained high and had accounted for the largest number of incidents of violence in the north eastern region for the last couple of years.

He further mentioned that besides killings of civilians and government personnel, the militants had indulged in extortion, kidnapping for ransom and had caused frequent strikes and blockades in the state especially on the national highways. These activities had created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation among civilians and the government officials. The obvious effects of those militant activities were colossal economic losses to the state, paralyzing of the administration and normal life of the people, delays in implementation of development work and disruption in the supplies of essential commodities resulting in increased prices. The people whether in business or profession or government, had feared about being able to work and operate freely and without fear.

He highlighted that the fast pace of development in today`s globalizing world was of no use to Manipur if the people of the state could not participate and take the advantage of it. He said that the objective of the seminar was to understand and appreciate the different views expressed by the participants on those crucial and important issues and that would also be an opportunity for them to chalk out direction for future. He hoped that the deliberations during the workshop would also help in formulating strategy for strengthening the peace process in the region and thereby facilitating all-round development.

In his inaugural address, the former Governor of Assam and chairman of North Eastern Council Dr. Bhishma Narain Singh who was also former Union Cabinet minister said, "At the politico-administrative level I must admit that our approach has been ad hoc and mostly confined to fire fighting. There is a need for urgently reviewing the total situation in the north-east particularly in Manipur to pinpoint the reasons of insurgency. In specific areas, a comprehensive, long-term plan and effective programmes of action should be decided upon and implemented to tackle the specific root problems in each area of insurgency and potential unrest."

He further stated that while most of the ground action might be through the state governments, the Union government had to be constantly alive to the situation by remaining in constant touch and by almost day-to-day review of the situation. He alarmed, "If we falter in this any longer, the future of Manipur will be jeopardized."

Describing Manipur as one of the most attractive states of the north east with its enchanting landscapes, the charming people and their vigorous tradition of creative culture, Dr. Bhishma Narain Singh stressed the need of the people, the intellectuals and the youths of Manipur for playing major role in development process with their full involvement.

He said that certain measures had been taken under the Five Year Plans, the NE Vision 2020 and the Look East Policy and were in operation for removal of regional economic imbalances and for accelerating the development process.

He stated, "The reasons for their not achieving the desired result and success have to be closely scrutinized. This is all the more necessary as the entire strategy needs reorientation in the light of the new economic policies, liberalization and privatization. Specific areas have to be identified where benefits of economic development, industrialization and social services do not reach or result in scanty or lopsided growth. A corrective programme of action has to be devised specifically for these areas and pointedly for actual area of potential insurgency and militancy."

The former Governor emphasized a strong and determined campaign on all fronts by the political parties for their deep involvement and participation of the ethnic groups, minorities and classes in this great effort. That should be of beyond party, caste considerations and religious and cult differences, he added. "A modicum of stable law and order condition is absolutely essential for the march of our nation and the north- east particularly Manipur towards progress, peace and prosperity," he asserted.

During the seminar, C Doungel, former finance minister of Manipur said that Manipur was one of the kingdoms - Assam, Manipur and Tripura in the north east. When it merged into the Indian Union, it was under the category of Part `C" states and the Central government allocated only Rs. 1.50 crore in the First Five Year Plan. It achieved its statehood only in 1972 whereas the neighbouring state of Nagaland attained the Statehood in 1963. Hence, the state of Manipur could not advance well ahead at par with other states and it made the people very much aggrieved. He made suggestion to the government for convincing the insurgents to bring them onto the negotiating table and also for solving the increasing problems of unemployment in the state.

Prof. Amar Yumnam of Manipur University, Canchipur described the visible violence on the people living at the border villages of Manipur who were surviving with no public distribution system, no power and no connectivity. He urged upon the authorities concerned to stop such visible violence.

KB Veio Pao, head of English department, Bhagat Singh College, New Delhi emphasized the need to look into the ground reality of any issues, not into the sugar-coated reality while solving it.

Dr. John Angam, assistant professor of Delhi University said that the absence of peace had created a huge loss in Manipur. As education system was completely disturbed in Manipur, students were coming out from the state for studying outside Manipur by pouring out money to outside. Intellectuals and entrepreneurs went outside the state for finding a new livelihood. In the era of globalization, no one from outside desired to invest in any business in Manipur. He suggested to restore a responsible government in Manipur. He also criticized the frequent statement of the authorities that they were always blaming to the underground elements when they failed to take up any developmental works in Manipur. He also suggested to the people of Manipur to look at the broad perspective of the changing scenario of the global world, completely avoiding minor issues like border issues, ethnic identities etc.

Dr. Athikho Keissi, assistant professor of Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi underlined the need of the regional and local media for playing a major role in bringing peace and development in Manipur. He said that the regional and local media were more highlighting and reacting on the violence instead of solving the situation. Media being the watchdog of the society, he said, should focus on resolving the crisis. He emphasized the need of peace journalism in Manipur. State government media should also be functioned properly in the regard, he added.

Dr. Bhagat Oinam, assistant professor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi suggested to find out the need of the people in the development process by asking what they aspired for. He denied the statement that India was one nation. He said that India was a multi-nation.

Dr. Bimol Akoijam, associate professor of the JNU, New Delhi said Gandhism had been practiced in Manipur right from the beginning till today. Through Gandhiniti, Irom Sharmila had been demanding for lifting of AFSPA from Manipur for the last many years without taking any food. The authorities did not listen to her voice of peace. The ideology of Gandhi or Gandhism should always be in the heart of everybody, he added.

Kh Jibon Singh, former minister of culture, Manipur said that though the equality and justice were reflected in the preamble of the Constitution of India, the people of Manipur had not still fully enjoyed the facilities of equality and justice. He was of the view that all the rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution should be made available to the people of Manipur, their being the citizens of the country.

KD Singh, joint police commissioner, Delhi Police lamented that the climax of lawlessness had been reached in Manipur.

Academicians, intellectuals, media representatives, students and youths of Manipur working and studying in New Delhi took part in the one-day conference.