Imphal, Dec. 20: Manipur home minister Gaikhangam has sought help from central forces in hunting down the NSCN (I-M) cadre who molested film actress Momoco as the incident continued to fan tension in the state capital today.
On Tuesday night, a man identified as senior NSCN (I-M) cadre Living Stone molested film actress Momoco in the green room of a concert at Chandel district headquarters. He also fired two rounds at two male artistes when they intervened.
The incident occurred at a time when the Naga rebel outfit and New Delhi were reportedly inching closer towards a peace settlement and there were concerns about what impact that would have over Manipur’s territory.
No one was hurt in the firing but the incident triggered a storm of protest.
For the second consecutive day, Manipur’s artiste fraternity poured its anger on the streets by making an abortive attempt to storm the state Assembly today. More than 10 women’s organisations threatened to launch a mass agitation if the government failed to book the culprit.
After submitting a memorandum to the home minister yesterday, singers, film and theatre artistes and members of citizens’ bodies planned to storm the state Assembly.
Members of Film Forum Manipur, All Manipur Matam Ishei Kanglup (singers’ body) and Shumang Leela Council (theatre body) gathered at Thangmeiband and marched towards the Assembly today. They were stopped by police at a distance of about 500 metres from the Assembly gate leading to a heated exchange between armed police and the protesters.
“I have directed the police to take help from security forces in tracking down and arresting the cadre. Although the NSCN (I-M) is holding talks with the Centre, a criminal is a criminal. We will arrest him,” Gaikhangam, who is also the deputy chief minister, assured the House.
Gaikhangam made this statement after Trinamul Congress leader I. Ibohalbi Singh raised the issue during zero hour. Singh demanded prompt action to pacify public outrage.
Two Congress members — N. Biren Singh and R.K. Anand Singh — joined the outcry demanding a House condemnation and calling for an end to violation of ground rules by NSCN (I-M) cadres.
The Speaker turned down the demand for House condemnation maintaining the House was yet to get evidence of the Chandel incident.
Protesters blocked the road leading to the state Assembly and did not allow any vehicle, including those carrying MLAs to pass the road for nearly one hour. Later, the protesters burnt an effigy of Living Stone.
“We will wait for the response of the government. If justice is delayed we will intensify our agitation,” said L. Surjakanta, president of Film Forum Manipur.
An official source said security measures were tightened to prevent an outbreak of violent protests.
The Shumang Leela Council suspended the ongoing Shumang Leela festival as a mark of protest today and the Film Forum Manipur also suspended screening of films in Manipur’s halls. Singers said they would not participate in any concert.
Rs 100cr swindle: Manipur man held
NEW DELHI: Delhi Police's special cell has arrested a native of Imphal, Manipur for duping thousands of people through a multilevel marketing scam with promises of high returns. Ningombam Raju alias Raju Singh allegedly cheated more than 23,000 people of approximately Rs 100 crore in the last few years by promising to treble their investments.
Raju was arrested on Sunday by a team of inspectors Sanjay Dutt, Rahul Kumar and Dharmender following a request from the police superintendent of Imphal. Manipur Police had information that Raju was hiding near the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border.
Raju came to Delhi in 1995 and worked with a photocopier firm in Daryaganj. He went back to Manipur in 1999 and worked there as a service agent for photocopier machines before returning to Delhi in 2004.
"Between 2004 and 2009, he worked as a service agent and also sold walkie talkie phones. In 2009, he started working at a multilevel marketing company, BBS (Base Business System) Marketing Limited in Paschim Vihar. The company was owned by Irom Satish, a Manipur resident, who fled after cheating many people. Raju learnt the working of multilevel marketing and decided to start his own venture," said DCP, special cell, Sanjeev Yadav.
"Raju joined LPC (Lala Prem Chand) Multilevel Marketing Company at Kakrola More, Uttam Nagar which was owned by brothers Vinod and Balbir Bagga and dealt in induction cookers. He then moved to Welkin Real Tech Pvt Ltd, owned by Kishanveer and managed by Parveen Thora from Najafgarh. Later, the Bagga brothers joined Welkin and started cheating people with Raju. They also managed a website for this company with the link globalwinindex.biz," said Yadav.
"The accused used to lure people by offering to treble an initial deposit of Rs 10,000 in three months. The company also offered other schemes for shorter durations. Members received 10% of the deposit made by the new investors introduced by them. The joining fee was fixed as Rs 1,500, and a member could invest up to Rs 10 lakh on one ID. The company claimed the money was being invested in real estate and stocks," said special commissioner of police, SN Srivastava.
Raju played a pivotal role in luring many Manipuris into investing in this bogus company. "In February 2011, Welkin Real Tech Pvt Ltd closed down after collecting massive amounts. Kishan Veer and the Bagga brothers started a new company. At the time of the closure, they had over 23,000 members/subscribers. Raju went underground for some time, only to resurface in April 2012 at a house in Noida, where he started another business of supplying solar lanterns/inverters," said Yadav.
Of late, police claimed, Raju was planning to start another marketing company in association with a man named D K Bajpai. The accused reportedly obtained an arms licence and a Walther pistol in 2010. He later sold this gun and bought an Erma Werke revolver. He also bought a plot at Kakrola More, Uttam Nagar and another property in Jeevan Park, Uttam Nagar.
Raju was arrested on Sunday by a team of inspectors Sanjay Dutt, Rahul Kumar and Dharmender following a request from the police superintendent of Imphal. Manipur Police had information that Raju was hiding near the Uttar Pradesh-Delhi border.
Raju came to Delhi in 1995 and worked with a photocopier firm in Daryaganj. He went back to Manipur in 1999 and worked there as a service agent for photocopier machines before returning to Delhi in 2004.
"Between 2004 and 2009, he worked as a service agent and also sold walkie talkie phones. In 2009, he started working at a multilevel marketing company, BBS (Base Business System) Marketing Limited in Paschim Vihar. The company was owned by Irom Satish, a Manipur resident, who fled after cheating many people. Raju learnt the working of multilevel marketing and decided to start his own venture," said DCP, special cell, Sanjeev Yadav.
"Raju joined LPC (Lala Prem Chand) Multilevel Marketing Company at Kakrola More, Uttam Nagar which was owned by brothers Vinod and Balbir Bagga and dealt in induction cookers. He then moved to Welkin Real Tech Pvt Ltd, owned by Kishanveer and managed by Parveen Thora from Najafgarh. Later, the Bagga brothers joined Welkin and started cheating people with Raju. They also managed a website for this company with the link globalwinindex.biz," said Yadav.
"The accused used to lure people by offering to treble an initial deposit of Rs 10,000 in three months. The company also offered other schemes for shorter durations. Members received 10% of the deposit made by the new investors introduced by them. The joining fee was fixed as Rs 1,500, and a member could invest up to Rs 10 lakh on one ID. The company claimed the money was being invested in real estate and stocks," said special commissioner of police, SN Srivastava.
Raju played a pivotal role in luring many Manipuris into investing in this bogus company. "In February 2011, Welkin Real Tech Pvt Ltd closed down after collecting massive amounts. Kishan Veer and the Bagga brothers started a new company. At the time of the closure, they had over 23,000 members/subscribers. Raju went underground for some time, only to resurface in April 2012 at a house in Noida, where he started another business of supplying solar lanterns/inverters," said Yadav.
Of late, police claimed, Raju was planning to start another marketing company in association with a man named D K Bajpai. The accused reportedly obtained an arms licence and a Walther pistol in 2010. He later sold this gun and bought an Erma Werke revolver. He also bought a plot at Kakrola More, Uttam Nagar and another property in Jeevan Park, Uttam Nagar.
Manipur students demand BDO’s termination
IMPHAL, Dec 7 – Manipur-based Thadou Students’ Association (TSA), Chandel district and Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO), Khengjoy Block, have demanded immediate termination of the Block Development Officer (BDO) of the Khengjoy TB block in the border district for his alleged misappropriation of government fund meant for the needy villagers living across the 134 villages of Chandel district.
A memorandum highlighting the grievances of the villagers of the block due to the alleged high-handedness of the BDO, Md Nazimuddin Shah, a resident of Kshetrigao village under Imphal East district, which is jointly signed by vice-president Ngamsei Touthang of KSO, Khengjoy block and president Thongkhovum Khongsai of TSA Chandel district, was submitted to Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh today.
The said officer allegedly has been deducting 5 per cent of Mahatama Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme fund from each and every villages since the last five years which amounted to Rs 1,67,96,614, the memorandum alleged. It further alleged that recently the said BDO supplied Sony digital cameras (DSC-W630) to each village chief for subsequent deduction of the price from each MGNREGS fund, it said. But he charged Rs 13,000 for each camera whereas, the price of a camera was Rs 8,990 at UK Enterprises, a camera shop in Imphal, and Rs 7,990 as per company printed price. “When he was requested to disclose the amount allotted to each village, he threatened them to withhold the fund. Moreover, he had also deducted a fractional of amount of MGNREGS fund from every village,” the memorandum claimed.
In buying 134 cameras, the officer made a profit of more than Rs 7,42,500 which he misappropriated from MGNREGS fund, it charged. The said officer also reportedly insisted the village chiefs to sign on blank cheques, the memorandum said. “He (the officer) runs the BDO office at his private residence at Khergao in Imphal East.
“If the government neglecting the sentiments of the public does not fulfil our demand within December 15, we are going to launch any kind of agitation and for any future untoward incidents the government would be responsible,” the memorandum cautioned. The said BDO could not be contacted for his comment.
A memorandum highlighting the grievances of the villagers of the block due to the alleged high-handedness of the BDO, Md Nazimuddin Shah, a resident of Kshetrigao village under Imphal East district, which is jointly signed by vice-president Ngamsei Touthang of KSO, Khengjoy block and president Thongkhovum Khongsai of TSA Chandel district, was submitted to Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh today.
The said officer allegedly has been deducting 5 per cent of Mahatama Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme fund from each and every villages since the last five years which amounted to Rs 1,67,96,614, the memorandum alleged. It further alleged that recently the said BDO supplied Sony digital cameras (DSC-W630) to each village chief for subsequent deduction of the price from each MGNREGS fund, it said. But he charged Rs 13,000 for each camera whereas, the price of a camera was Rs 8,990 at UK Enterprises, a camera shop in Imphal, and Rs 7,990 as per company printed price. “When he was requested to disclose the amount allotted to each village, he threatened them to withhold the fund. Moreover, he had also deducted a fractional of amount of MGNREGS fund from every village,” the memorandum claimed.
In buying 134 cameras, the officer made a profit of more than Rs 7,42,500 which he misappropriated from MGNREGS fund, it charged. The said officer also reportedly insisted the village chiefs to sign on blank cheques, the memorandum said. “He (the officer) runs the BDO office at his private residence at Khergao in Imphal East.
“If the government neglecting the sentiments of the public does not fulfil our demand within December 15, we are going to launch any kind of agitation and for any future untoward incidents the government would be responsible,” the memorandum cautioned. The said BDO could not be contacted for his comment.
There's more in Manipur killings than meets the eye: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court on Thursday said a proper probe is needed into various encounter killings in Manipur and suggested formation of a Special Investigating Team to probe into some of those cases, a proposition opposed by the NHRC and Centre.
Observing that situation in the state is not normal, a bench of justices Aftab Alam and Ranjana Prakash Desai said further investigation needs to done as in some cases judicial enquiry came to conclusion that people were killed in fake encounters.
"Why there should not be a proper investigation? There is more than meets the eye. So many encounters took place. Situation is not normal. We are concerned about the failure of constitutional scheme," the bench said.
One of the petitioners contended that CBI can be directed to inquire into those cases but the bench said it might not be practical solution as agency would take years to complete the probe. "What would CBI do? It would take years and years to complete the probe," the bench observed.
The proposition of setting up SIT was opposed by the Centre and the NHRC (National Human Rights Commissions). The Commission said it would not be possible for SIT to probe such a large number of cases.
The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) petition by an association of the families of the alleged victims, pleading with the apex court to set up a special investigation team and direct inquiry into around 1500 such cases.
The apex court expressed surprise on how a 12-year old boy, said to be a militant, was killed in the state. "How can a 12-year old boy be a terrorist?," the bench said adding "We expect NHRC to be more effective in dealing with such cases."
The counsel appearing for NHRC, however, submitted that the commission can not enforce its guidelines as it lacks penal powers. "SIT may not be a proper solution as the number of incidents are so high. What requires is a proper guidelines and its effective implementation," the commission said.
The Centre, meanwhile, contended that a one-sided picture has been portrayed by the petitioner before the apex court and the situation is not so grim in the state. "The petitioner has tried to present a very gloomy picture of Manipur, as if people of the state are completely alienated. It is submitted that this is not the correct position. While the state of Manipur is facing the insurgency problem and the police and armed forces are dealing with that problem to the best of their capabilities, the common man is not generally affected by such counter-insurgency operations," it said.
While justifying the protection given to the armed forces personnel posted on duty to enable them operate with requisite thrust and drive, the government said it is also considering amendments in the Armed Forces Special Powers Act. "The matter was placed before the Cabinet for making a few amendments in the Act after following inter-ministerial consultation procedure prescribed therefor. It was advised to place the matter before the Cabinet Committee on Security first," it said.
"The cabinet committee of security did not approve the same. As suggested by the competent authority, the process of further consultation between the ministries has been undertaken and a final decision in this regard can only be taken by the Cabinet," added the government.
"Nevertheless, the exercise of amending the AFSPA is under consideration of the government," the Centre said in its affidavit.
The association said in all, over 2000 odd extra-judicial killings have taken place in the state, but no one has been held guilty till date. It alleged innocent people with no criminal records have been killed by security forces and no proper investigation has been done in such cases. "Not only were there no criminal investigations and prosecutions of the guilty, even departmental enquiries were not conducted and no policemen or personnel of the security forces were punished departmentally for their actions.
"The magisterial enquiries that took place sometimes were conducted by the executive magistrates under the cover of secrecy and most often without intimation to the eyewitnesses and the members of the families. They were conducted as an eyewash," the petition said.
The apex court had earlier on July 4 agreed to hear a similar plea for probe into the alleged extra-judicial killings by the Border Security force in the West Bengal border area.
In that case, petitioner Bangla Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha, a Kolkata-based NGO, had alleged that there are more than 200 cases where the BSF personnel indulged in extra-judicial killings and torture in the border area and those cases were never probed by the state police.
The NGO had alleged that instead of registering FIR against the BSF personnel, it is registered against the deceased and the case is closed on that basis.
Observing that situation in the state is not normal, a bench of justices Aftab Alam and Ranjana Prakash Desai said further investigation needs to done as in some cases judicial enquiry came to conclusion that people were killed in fake encounters.
"Why there should not be a proper investigation? There is more than meets the eye. So many encounters took place. Situation is not normal. We are concerned about the failure of constitutional scheme," the bench said.
One of the petitioners contended that CBI can be directed to inquire into those cases but the bench said it might not be practical solution as agency would take years to complete the probe. "What would CBI do? It would take years and years to complete the probe," the bench observed.
The proposition of setting up SIT was opposed by the Centre and the NHRC (National Human Rights Commissions). The Commission said it would not be possible for SIT to probe such a large number of cases.
The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) petition by an association of the families of the alleged victims, pleading with the apex court to set up a special investigation team and direct inquiry into around 1500 such cases.
The apex court expressed surprise on how a 12-year old boy, said to be a militant, was killed in the state. "How can a 12-year old boy be a terrorist?," the bench said adding "We expect NHRC to be more effective in dealing with such cases."
The counsel appearing for NHRC, however, submitted that the commission can not enforce its guidelines as it lacks penal powers. "SIT may not be a proper solution as the number of incidents are so high. What requires is a proper guidelines and its effective implementation," the commission said.
The Centre, meanwhile, contended that a one-sided picture has been portrayed by the petitioner before the apex court and the situation is not so grim in the state. "The petitioner has tried to present a very gloomy picture of Manipur, as if people of the state are completely alienated. It is submitted that this is not the correct position. While the state of Manipur is facing the insurgency problem and the police and armed forces are dealing with that problem to the best of their capabilities, the common man is not generally affected by such counter-insurgency operations," it said.
While justifying the protection given to the armed forces personnel posted on duty to enable them operate with requisite thrust and drive, the government said it is also considering amendments in the Armed Forces Special Powers Act. "The matter was placed before the Cabinet for making a few amendments in the Act after following inter-ministerial consultation procedure prescribed therefor. It was advised to place the matter before the Cabinet Committee on Security first," it said.
"The cabinet committee of security did not approve the same. As suggested by the competent authority, the process of further consultation between the ministries has been undertaken and a final decision in this regard can only be taken by the Cabinet," added the government.
"Nevertheless, the exercise of amending the AFSPA is under consideration of the government," the Centre said in its affidavit.
The association said in all, over 2000 odd extra-judicial killings have taken place in the state, but no one has been held guilty till date. It alleged innocent people with no criminal records have been killed by security forces and no proper investigation has been done in such cases. "Not only were there no criminal investigations and prosecutions of the guilty, even departmental enquiries were not conducted and no policemen or personnel of the security forces were punished departmentally for their actions.
"The magisterial enquiries that took place sometimes were conducted by the executive magistrates under the cover of secrecy and most often without intimation to the eyewitnesses and the members of the families. They were conducted as an eyewash," the petition said.
The apex court had earlier on July 4 agreed to hear a similar plea for probe into the alleged extra-judicial killings by the Border Security force in the West Bengal border area.
In that case, petitioner Bangla Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha, a Kolkata-based NGO, had alleged that there are more than 200 cases where the BSF personnel indulged in extra-judicial killings and torture in the border area and those cases were never probed by the state police.
The NGO had alleged that instead of registering FIR against the BSF personnel, it is registered against the deceased and the case is closed on that basis.
Gaikhangam lays foundation of market complex at Moreh
Moreh: Giving a boost to the ambitious "Look East Policy", Manipur deputy chief minister Gaikhangam on Wednesday laid the foundation of a multi-storied market complex at Manipur's Moreh town bordering Myanmar, about 110 kms from Imphal.
The items incorporated in the ongoing Indo-Myanmar commercial activities have been increased from 40 to 62 even as the state government has identified a site at Moreh to set up a satellite town.
Manipur Industrial Development Corporation Ltd (Manidco), the implementing agency of the market complex, is targeting to complete its construction within 36 months. "The new market complex would be a milestone for the Look East Policy and a turning point for entrepreneurs of the country in general and Manipur in particular," said Gaikhangam, who also holds the home portfolio.
In his speech, Manipur commerce and industries minister Govindas Konthoujam said the government is targeting to complete construction of the supermarket ahead of the scheduled time. He added that the number of items increased for Indo-Myanmarese border trade includes rice, medicines and motorcycles. Stating that four to five international marketers come to Manipur every month to expand their business in India by shipping the items through Myanmar, Govindas said he has taken into account some of their suggestions to import electronics items from Thailand.
"We are thinking about the Myanmarese government's request to grant transit permit to ferry electronic items to India," he said. Stating that the highway leading to Moreh, the gateway of South East Asia, is very important in the face of the growing commercial activities, Govindas urged all concerned not to impose bandhs and blockade along the route.
The items incorporated in the ongoing Indo-Myanmar commercial activities have been increased from 40 to 62 even as the state government has identified a site at Moreh to set up a satellite town.
Manipur Industrial Development Corporation Ltd (Manidco), the implementing agency of the market complex, is targeting to complete its construction within 36 months. "The new market complex would be a milestone for the Look East Policy and a turning point for entrepreneurs of the country in general and Manipur in particular," said Gaikhangam, who also holds the home portfolio.
In his speech, Manipur commerce and industries minister Govindas Konthoujam said the government is targeting to complete construction of the supermarket ahead of the scheduled time. He added that the number of items increased for Indo-Myanmarese border trade includes rice, medicines and motorcycles. Stating that four to five international marketers come to Manipur every month to expand their business in India by shipping the items through Myanmar, Govindas said he has taken into account some of their suggestions to import electronics items from Thailand.
"We are thinking about the Myanmarese government's request to grant transit permit to ferry electronic items to India," he said. Stating that the highway leading to Moreh, the gateway of South East Asia, is very important in the face of the growing commercial activities, Govindas urged all concerned not to impose bandhs and blockade along the route.
Not prudent to repeal AFSPA in northeast, government tells SC
NEW DELHI: The Centre on Wednesday informed the Supreme Court that it was considering amendments to the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, which provides sweeping powers to security forces in areas declared disturbed due to militancy.
The ministry of home affairs, in its response to a petition by Th Suresh Singh seeking repeal of the law, said it would not be prudent to repeal AFSPA or withdraw it from northeastern states, even though the Justice Jeevan Reddy Committee had recommended its repeal and amending Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to achieve the purpose of AFSPA.
"However, the grim security situation in the northeast, more so in Manipur, caused by unlawful underground militant groups bent upon separation of Manipur from the country, has also been considered by the government on the basis of the advice of the Army, police and other security and intelligence agencies," the ministry said. "Therefore, it was considered not a prudent step to repeal AFSPA as recommended by the committee. The matter was placed before the Cabinet for making a few amendments in the act after following inter-ministerial consultation procedure. It was advised to place the matter before the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) first."
Narrating the procedure for amendment of the act, the ministry said, "The CCS did not approve the same. As suggested by the competent authority, the process of further consultation between the ministries has been undertaken and a final decision can only be taken by the Cabinet."
It added, "Moreover, the unmanageability of the powerful militant groups by the local police also compels the state government of Manipur to seek aid of central security forces to keep the insurgent groups under check. Nevertheless, the exercise of amending AFSPA is under consideration of the government."
The Union government said around 1,500 militants were holding a population of 23 lakh in Manipur to ransom and keeping them in constant fear. "The root cause of militancy in Manipur is the constant endeavour of these insurgent groups to spread fear so that they can continue to extort money and the leaders of such groups can continue to lead luxurious life in foreign countries," it said.
Referring to the high percentage of voting in the last two assembly elections in Manipur, the home ministry said people of the state had always demonstrated their faith in the country's institutions. It said, "The ethnic rivalries among different tribes, viz Meiteis, Kukis and Nagas, are deep-rooted and the militant groups fervently advance their ideologies by taking advantage of the porous international border with Myanmar, which is 256 km long, heavily forested and contains some of the most difficult terrain. "Taking advantage of this situation, the militant outfits utilize the other side of the border (which is beyond the jurisdiction of the Indian armed forces) for conveniently conducting their operations of extortions/kidnapping/killing/looting and ambushing the security forces."
The government said counter-insurgency operations seldom affected the common man. The petitions on extra-judicial killings in Manipur and a plea for withdrawal of AFSPA from the state will come up for hearing in the Supreme Court on Thursday.
The ministry of home affairs, in its response to a petition by Th Suresh Singh seeking repeal of the law, said it would not be prudent to repeal AFSPA or withdraw it from northeastern states, even though the Justice Jeevan Reddy Committee had recommended its repeal and amending Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to achieve the purpose of AFSPA.
"However, the grim security situation in the northeast, more so in Manipur, caused by unlawful underground militant groups bent upon separation of Manipur from the country, has also been considered by the government on the basis of the advice of the Army, police and other security and intelligence agencies," the ministry said. "Therefore, it was considered not a prudent step to repeal AFSPA as recommended by the committee. The matter was placed before the Cabinet for making a few amendments in the act after following inter-ministerial consultation procedure. It was advised to place the matter before the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) first."
Narrating the procedure for amendment of the act, the ministry said, "The CCS did not approve the same. As suggested by the competent authority, the process of further consultation between the ministries has been undertaken and a final decision can only be taken by the Cabinet."
It added, "Moreover, the unmanageability of the powerful militant groups by the local police also compels the state government of Manipur to seek aid of central security forces to keep the insurgent groups under check. Nevertheless, the exercise of amending AFSPA is under consideration of the government."
The Union government said around 1,500 militants were holding a population of 23 lakh in Manipur to ransom and keeping them in constant fear. "The root cause of militancy in Manipur is the constant endeavour of these insurgent groups to spread fear so that they can continue to extort money and the leaders of such groups can continue to lead luxurious life in foreign countries," it said.
Referring to the high percentage of voting in the last two assembly elections in Manipur, the home ministry said people of the state had always demonstrated their faith in the country's institutions. It said, "The ethnic rivalries among different tribes, viz Meiteis, Kukis and Nagas, are deep-rooted and the militant groups fervently advance their ideologies by taking advantage of the porous international border with Myanmar, which is 256 km long, heavily forested and contains some of the most difficult terrain. "Taking advantage of this situation, the militant outfits utilize the other side of the border (which is beyond the jurisdiction of the Indian armed forces) for conveniently conducting their operations of extortions/kidnapping/killing/looting and ambushing the security forces."
The government said counter-insurgency operations seldom affected the common man. The petitions on extra-judicial killings in Manipur and a plea for withdrawal of AFSPA from the state will come up for hearing in the Supreme Court on Thursday.
Market complex to come up at Moreh
Industrial development on agenda
Moreh, Dec 6 : Manipur deputy chief minister Gaikhangam today laid the foundation of a multi-storey market complex at Moreh, a border township, marking the start of a series of infrastructure development projects aimed at exploiting maximum benefits from the Look East policy.
The Rs 22-crore market complex will come up next to border gate number 2 and will house domestic products under the trade items. The construction of the complex will be over in three months.
Earlier, there were 40 trade items under the agreement between India and Myanmar. The number was increased to 62 last month by adding 22 more items, including rice, medicines, motorcycles and electrical appliances.
Last year, the trade volume was Rs 4 crore and this year officials of the state trade and commerce department are estimating to increase the volume up to Rs 10 crore.
The trade and commerce department estimates that the trade volume could increase more than 50 per cent once the agreement to add 22 more items becomes operational.
While Myanmar developed modern shopping complexes at neighbouring Tamu and in the process of developing one more at Namphalong just a few steps inside Myanmar, Moreh did not have a proper shopping complex till today.
The construction of the market complex at Moreh aims to boost border trade and reap more benefits out of the trade. After the market complex, the construction of a 500-acre satellite town at Haolenphai, near border gate number 1 is on the agenda of the Ibobi Singh government.
“Our target is to make Moreh another industrial township like Frankfurt,” Gaikhangam said.
Gaikhangam, accompanied by commerce and industries minister Govindas Konthoujam, surveyed the proposed site for the satellite town. The government has already acquired land and is preparing a detailed project report for the approval of the Centre.
“The market complex is only the beginning. A series of development projects is in the pipeline. The satellite town will be a state-of-the-art cosmopolitan city. Big trade and commerce bodies like the Indian Chamber of Commerce will be invited to be the stakeholders,” Gaikhangam said.
So far, Myanmar is drawing more benefits out of the border trade. Gaikhangam admitted that Manipur or for that matter India could not draw much benefits.
The Ibobi Singh government has taken infrastructure development seriously as Moreh is the gateway to Asean countries and also in view of the Look East policy.
Gaikhangam urged all communities to shun narrow and selfish politics based on community interests.
Moreh, Dec 6 : Manipur deputy chief minister Gaikhangam today laid the foundation of a multi-storey market complex at Moreh, a border township, marking the start of a series of infrastructure development projects aimed at exploiting maximum benefits from the Look East policy.
The Rs 22-crore market complex will come up next to border gate number 2 and will house domestic products under the trade items. The construction of the complex will be over in three months.
Earlier, there were 40 trade items under the agreement between India and Myanmar. The number was increased to 62 last month by adding 22 more items, including rice, medicines, motorcycles and electrical appliances.
Last year, the trade volume was Rs 4 crore and this year officials of the state trade and commerce department are estimating to increase the volume up to Rs 10 crore.
The trade and commerce department estimates that the trade volume could increase more than 50 per cent once the agreement to add 22 more items becomes operational.
While Myanmar developed modern shopping complexes at neighbouring Tamu and in the process of developing one more at Namphalong just a few steps inside Myanmar, Moreh did not have a proper shopping complex till today.
The construction of the market complex at Moreh aims to boost border trade and reap more benefits out of the trade. After the market complex, the construction of a 500-acre satellite town at Haolenphai, near border gate number 1 is on the agenda of the Ibobi Singh government.
“Our target is to make Moreh another industrial township like Frankfurt,” Gaikhangam said.
Gaikhangam, accompanied by commerce and industries minister Govindas Konthoujam, surveyed the proposed site for the satellite town. The government has already acquired land and is preparing a detailed project report for the approval of the Centre.
“The market complex is only the beginning. A series of development projects is in the pipeline. The satellite town will be a state-of-the-art cosmopolitan city. Big trade and commerce bodies like the Indian Chamber of Commerce will be invited to be the stakeholders,” Gaikhangam said.
So far, Myanmar is drawing more benefits out of the border trade. Gaikhangam admitted that Manipur or for that matter India could not draw much benefits.
The Ibobi Singh government has taken infrastructure development seriously as Moreh is the gateway to Asean countries and also in view of the Look East policy.
Gaikhangam urged all communities to shun narrow and selfish politics based on community interests.
Manipur lawyers extend boycott
Bar association sticks to demands
N. Kumarjit (centre) at the news conference in Imphal on Monday. Telegraph picture
N. Kumarjit (centre) at the news conference in Imphal on Monday. Telegraph picture
Imphal, Dec 4 : Members of the High
Court Bar Association, Manipur, today resolved to continue abstention
from work until concrete assurances were given by relevant authorities
to fulfil their demands.
Members of the Imphal bench of Gauhati
High Court have been abstaining from work since November 8 demanding
appointment of seven judges for a separate high court of Manipur and
also appointment of only Manipuris as judges.
The high court lawyers launched the
agitation as the Centre was planning to open separate high courts for
Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura anytime and also following reports that
there were moves of absorbing existing judges of Gauhati High Court for a
high court in Manipur.
The high courts are likely to be opened latest by January.
The bar association held a meeting today
to review its course of agitation and also assurances given by Supreme
Court judge A.K. Patnaik, in-charge of high courts in the Northeast, and
Union law minister Ashwani Kumar to look into their demands.
A delegation of the bar association led by its president N. Kumarjit met Patnaik and Kumar last week in Delhi.
“Today, we have reviewed the outcome of
the meetings in Delhi and we have decided that the assurances given by
the honourable Supreme Court judge and the Union law minister were not
satisfactory. So, we will continue our agitation for an indefinite
period,” Kumarjit told reporters after the meeting.
He said the association was planning to
intensify the agitation by mobilising support from Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh, chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh and the Chief Justice
of India. The delegation during their visit to Delhi last week tried to
meet the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
The association is also planning to hold
sit-ins and rallies to mount pressure on the Centre and the Supreme
Court to fulfil their demands.
The resolution noted that the Chief
Justice of Gauhati High Court, A.K. Goel, “failed to feel the pulse” of
the High Court Bar Association, Manipur. “He is not taking interest in
the affairs of Manipur and he is acting as if he is not the chief
justice of Manipur,” the resolution said.
Kumarjit said Manipur has four quotas for judges in Gauhati High Court. At present, there are only two judges from Manipur.
Gauhati High Court has a sanctioned
strength of 24 judges. Though Assam had 11 quotas, now the number of
judges from Assam had gone up to 15, Kumarjit said.
Khidem Mani Singh, a senior member of the
bar association, demanded an inquiry into the manner in which judges of
Gauhati High Court are appointed.
Kuki blockade affects normal life in Manipur
An indefinite blockade by Kukis recently brought normal life across Manipur to a standstill.
The blockade was spearheaded by the separatist Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC).
In Kangpokpi, a stronghold of the Kukis, public transport system was badly hit.
"Such shutdowns create many problems. I am a teacher and have to go to work but I am getting late as I have to stand in queue outside a petrol pump. It affects my work," said Loitongbam Ramchandra Singh, a local resident.
Many people, like the team of 30th National Junior soft-ball championship players, faced problems in commuting from Dimapur to Imphal. The security forces later escorted the team to Imphal.
"We have been sitting in the bus since yesterday. We are facing many problems. We have not eaten properly and have not had a bath. We hoped that we would reach early and practice, but we are facing many problems," said Suchilda Pataik, a championship official.
Manipur has already suffered a lot due to blockades and strikes imposed by militant outfits. Those worse affected by such activities are the common people.
The blockade was spearheaded by the separatist Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC).
In Kangpokpi, a stronghold of the Kukis, public transport system was badly hit.
"Such shutdowns create many problems. I am a teacher and have to go to work but I am getting late as I have to stand in queue outside a petrol pump. It affects my work," said Loitongbam Ramchandra Singh, a local resident.
Many people, like the team of 30th National Junior soft-ball championship players, faced problems in commuting from Dimapur to Imphal. The security forces later escorted the team to Imphal.
"We have been sitting in the bus since yesterday. We are facing many problems. We have not eaten properly and have not had a bath. We hoped that we would reach early and practice, but we are facing many problems," said Suchilda Pataik, a championship official.
Manipur has already suffered a lot due to blockades and strikes imposed by militant outfits. Those worse affected by such activities are the common people.
Prohibitory orders in Manipur’s Thoubal
Curfew like restrictions was imposed in Manipur’s Thoubal district
headquarter area Sunday as tensions were building up following death of a
58-year old man who sustained bullet injury in police firing to
disperse protestors blocking Indo-Myanmar section of NH-2.
Strict prohibitory orders under section 144 were imposed in the whole Thoubal district, police said, adding that the restrictions in this district were imposed due to apprehensions that agitations being launched by the people following deaths of two persons in Thoubal district headquarters and missing of non-Manipuri staying in his in-law’s house at Kakching of same district were likely to escalate with violence actions.
People were blocking the highway demanding booking of culprit(s) involved in the killing of one Yanglem Naoba alias Bisheshwor (31) of the same locality with deceased Manichandra. Naoba was shot dead by miscreants in the morning of November 30 last.
The protesting people who took to the streets and blocked the road for the second day sunday were irate on hearing that injured Manichandra breathed his last at the hospital today, around 11 am and attempted to storm the office of the deputy commissioner of Thoubal district.
Timey arrival of chief minister’s spouse and MLA O Landhoni Devi to hold talks with the agitating people prevented the people from further proceeding towards the DC office. MLA Landhoni was reportedly sent by chief minister O Ibobi Singh to convince the people of his constituency.
Strict prohibitory orders under section 144 were imposed in the whole Thoubal district, police said, adding that the restrictions in this district were imposed due to apprehensions that agitations being launched by the people following deaths of two persons in Thoubal district headquarters and missing of non-Manipuri staying in his in-law’s house at Kakching of same district were likely to escalate with violence actions.
People were blocking the highway demanding booking of culprit(s) involved in the killing of one Yanglem Naoba alias Bisheshwor (31) of the same locality with deceased Manichandra. Naoba was shot dead by miscreants in the morning of November 30 last.
The protesting people who took to the streets and blocked the road for the second day sunday were irate on hearing that injured Manichandra breathed his last at the hospital today, around 11 am and attempted to storm the office of the deputy commissioner of Thoubal district.
Timey arrival of chief minister’s spouse and MLA O Landhoni Devi to hold talks with the agitating people prevented the people from further proceeding towards the DC office. MLA Landhoni was reportedly sent by chief minister O Ibobi Singh to convince the people of his constituency.
Bamboo bicycle launched in Imphal
IMPHAL, Nov 30 – The bamboo bicycle or Wa-(bamboo) Bike is all set to hit the State roads turning the dream of bicycle enthusiasts in Manipur into a reality after the formal launch of the bike in Imphal last afternoon.
Though the State had witnessed successful test ride of four bamboo-fabricated bicycles during the 10th Critical Mass of Manipur Cycle Club (MCC) in April this year, the made in India ‘bambike’ was formally launched at the ongoing 10-day Manipur Sangai Festival on the 8th day yesterday.
Two models of bamboo-fabricated bicycle or ‘Wa-Bike’ – one each for men and children – were assembled during a four-day workshop held under the aegis of South Asia Bamboo Foundation (SABF) in collaboration with MCC.
“I hope the government in our State takes steps to make cycle lanes for a healthy environment in our city,”says Parliamentary Secretary (Tourism and Sports) M Prithviraj while speaking at the function. “I appreciate the innovative and unique idea of making such a bamboo bicyle in the State.”
The bicycle, the first in the country, is made of both iron and bamboo. The main frames are made of bamboo and the rest such as wheels, joints and chains are made of iron parts.
Manipur’s Commerce and Industries Minister K Gobindas lauded the activities of MCC. It maye be noted that the State Environment and Ecology Wing had already promised to buy 1000 such Wa-Bikes in the days to come to use as samples for environment-friendly means of transport.
Urging the communities to adopt cycle for daily local transports in the Imphal city and urban areas of Manipur which remain congested due to unchecked rise in number of motor vehicles, mostly two-wheelers, a key functionary of MCC, James Mayengbam, said, “But we’ll be testing the durability of the bamboo-fabricated cycles for a few months before venturing into commercial production.” So the MCC is also yet to fix price of the Wa-Bike.
Former president of the World Bamboo Organisation Kamesh Salam and Bangalore-based designer Vijay Sharma were instrumental in making the MCC’s dream into reality.
Though the State had witnessed successful test ride of four bamboo-fabricated bicycles during the 10th Critical Mass of Manipur Cycle Club (MCC) in April this year, the made in India ‘bambike’ was formally launched at the ongoing 10-day Manipur Sangai Festival on the 8th day yesterday.
Two models of bamboo-fabricated bicycle or ‘Wa-Bike’ – one each for men and children – were assembled during a four-day workshop held under the aegis of South Asia Bamboo Foundation (SABF) in collaboration with MCC.
“I hope the government in our State takes steps to make cycle lanes for a healthy environment in our city,”says Parliamentary Secretary (Tourism and Sports) M Prithviraj while speaking at the function. “I appreciate the innovative and unique idea of making such a bamboo bicyle in the State.”
The bicycle, the first in the country, is made of both iron and bamboo. The main frames are made of bamboo and the rest such as wheels, joints and chains are made of iron parts.
Manipur’s Commerce and Industries Minister K Gobindas lauded the activities of MCC. It maye be noted that the State Environment and Ecology Wing had already promised to buy 1000 such Wa-Bikes in the days to come to use as samples for environment-friendly means of transport.
Urging the communities to adopt cycle for daily local transports in the Imphal city and urban areas of Manipur which remain congested due to unchecked rise in number of motor vehicles, mostly two-wheelers, a key functionary of MCC, James Mayengbam, said, “But we’ll be testing the durability of the bamboo-fabricated cycles for a few months before venturing into commercial production.” So the MCC is also yet to fix price of the Wa-Bike.
Former president of the World Bamboo Organisation Kamesh Salam and Bangalore-based designer Vijay Sharma were instrumental in making the MCC’s dream into reality.
Sarjubala bows out of Sr Women's National boxing Championship
GUWAHATI: In what came as a biggest upset of the day, the youth world and reigning national champion, Sarjubala Devi of Manipur went down to Mamta of Haryana in a enthralling semifinal contest on the fourth day of the 13th Senior National boxing championship on Wednesday.
In 48kg category, Haryana state champion and the bronze medallist at the 2011 senior nationals, Mamta entered the ring looking to avenge last year's defeat against the 19-year-old Manipuri boxing sensation, and she made her intentions clear at the beginning of the first round itself.
Taking full advantage of her height, Mamta overpowered Sarju with her long reaching arms and did not allow the multiple youth national champion to play her natural game.
Mamta led 5-4 at the end of the first two minutes of the play and then continued with similar tactics in the second round as well. Her strategy paid off and midway through the bout she had a three point advantage (5-3).
In the third round, Sarju upped the ante and was able to get the better of her opponent after Mamta was given a warning for a foul punch.
Things seem to be turning in favour of the Manipuri boxer, but drama unfolded in the fourth round when she got a caution herself, for intentionally putting her head down.
After an intense eight minutes of play in total, it was Mamta who triumphed by virtue of points (20-17) and advanced to the final round of the championship.
For the 23-year-old Haryana boxer, this win meant a lot after having lost to Sarjubala in the semi-finals last year.
"It was difficult bout to win and it could have gone either way. We have practiced together at the national camps and I know her game, plus I had also done my home work pretty well. I did not allow her that many attacking opportunities in the beginning and moved around the ring a lot and it worked like a charm," said Mamta.
"In the end she was under pressure and became over aggressive that played in my favour as well. Overall, I am very happy with my performance," she added.
Mamta will take on Rebecca Lalinmawii of Mizoram, who got the better of local girl Anita Kahar of Assam, in the next round with the aim of bagging her first senior national gold medal.
Meanwhile, in the fly weight division (51kg), silver medal winner at the 2012 Asian Championships, Pinky Jangra displayed great determination and skill to get past some solid attacking from Basanti Chanu of All India Police.
She led from the start to finish to win 29-16. In the championship round she will face Toniabala Chanu of Arunachal Pradesh, who beat Roshni Subba of Sikkim.
The field got tougher with the likes of 2012 World Championship bronze medallist Kavita Chahal (+81kg), Guangzhou Asian Games bronze medallist Kavita Goyat (75kg) of Haryana along with silver medallist at the 2012 Asian Championships Pooja Rani (75kg) of RSPB, Sonia Lather (54kg) of Haryana, Monica Saun (60kg) of Uttarakhand and Pinky Jangra (51kg) also of the Railways all cementing their place in the championship round.
World number 5, Chahal defeated Laxmi Padiya on points (27-7). The fight for the yellow metal in the middle weight division will witness 2011 Arafura Games silver medallist Pooja Rani taking on 2012 Asian Games bronze medallist Kavita Goyat of Haryana.
In the round of four, Rani was at her menacing best as she beat Poonam Mahant from Madhya Pradesh in a completely lop-sided contest. Goyat too had an easy route to the finals with a 26-7 victory over Poonam from All India Police.
In the bantam weight division former national champion and last year's silver medallist Lather had to dig deep against some power punching from Assamese boxer Anjali Machahary, but in the end the veteran boxer beat the local girl 19-14 on points.
In the feather weight division, it was a bad day seasoned boxer Mandakini Chann representing AIP. The 27 year old came up short against 2010 Asian Championship bronze medallist Pavitra of the Railways team.
In 48kg category, Haryana state champion and the bronze medallist at the 2011 senior nationals, Mamta entered the ring looking to avenge last year's defeat against the 19-year-old Manipuri boxing sensation, and she made her intentions clear at the beginning of the first round itself.
Taking full advantage of her height, Mamta overpowered Sarju with her long reaching arms and did not allow the multiple youth national champion to play her natural game.
Mamta led 5-4 at the end of the first two minutes of the play and then continued with similar tactics in the second round as well. Her strategy paid off and midway through the bout she had a three point advantage (5-3).
In the third round, Sarju upped the ante and was able to get the better of her opponent after Mamta was given a warning for a foul punch.
Things seem to be turning in favour of the Manipuri boxer, but drama unfolded in the fourth round when she got a caution herself, for intentionally putting her head down.
After an intense eight minutes of play in total, it was Mamta who triumphed by virtue of points (20-17) and advanced to the final round of the championship.
For the 23-year-old Haryana boxer, this win meant a lot after having lost to Sarjubala in the semi-finals last year.
"It was difficult bout to win and it could have gone either way. We have practiced together at the national camps and I know her game, plus I had also done my home work pretty well. I did not allow her that many attacking opportunities in the beginning and moved around the ring a lot and it worked like a charm," said Mamta.
"In the end she was under pressure and became over aggressive that played in my favour as well. Overall, I am very happy with my performance," she added.
Mamta will take on Rebecca Lalinmawii of Mizoram, who got the better of local girl Anita Kahar of Assam, in the next round with the aim of bagging her first senior national gold medal.
Meanwhile, in the fly weight division (51kg), silver medal winner at the 2012 Asian Championships, Pinky Jangra displayed great determination and skill to get past some solid attacking from Basanti Chanu of All India Police.
She led from the start to finish to win 29-16. In the championship round she will face Toniabala Chanu of Arunachal Pradesh, who beat Roshni Subba of Sikkim.
The field got tougher with the likes of 2012 World Championship bronze medallist Kavita Chahal (+81kg), Guangzhou Asian Games bronze medallist Kavita Goyat (75kg) of Haryana along with silver medallist at the 2012 Asian Championships Pooja Rani (75kg) of RSPB, Sonia Lather (54kg) of Haryana, Monica Saun (60kg) of Uttarakhand and Pinky Jangra (51kg) also of the Railways all cementing their place in the championship round.
World number 5, Chahal defeated Laxmi Padiya on points (27-7). The fight for the yellow metal in the middle weight division will witness 2011 Arafura Games silver medallist Pooja Rani taking on 2012 Asian Games bronze medallist Kavita Goyat of Haryana.
In the round of four, Rani was at her menacing best as she beat Poonam Mahant from Madhya Pradesh in a completely lop-sided contest. Goyat too had an easy route to the finals with a 26-7 victory over Poonam from All India Police.
In the bantam weight division former national champion and last year's silver medallist Lather had to dig deep against some power punching from Assamese boxer Anjali Machahary, but in the end the veteran boxer beat the local girl 19-14 on points.
In the feather weight division, it was a bad day seasoned boxer Mandakini Chann representing AIP. The 27 year old came up short against 2010 Asian Championship bronze medallist Pavitra of the Railways team.
Imphal hosts festival to promote popular classical dance forms
Imphal: Manipur capital Imphal recently played host to a festival that aimed to promote the classical dance forms of Manipuri and Satriyya.
Classical dancers from different parts of the country took part in the four-day long Festival of Classical Manipur Solo Dance.
The event was held under the aegis of Manipur State Kala Akademi to spread awareness about the classical dance among the youth.
“This solo classical festival will surely benefit the classical dancers, especially those learning different forms of classical dances,” said S. Bideshwor Sharma, the Secretary, Manipur State Kala Academy and one of the organisers of the event.
Manipuri dance forms like the Ras Lila, Pung Cholom, Nupa Cholom and Thoibi enthralled the audience, who turned up in large numbers.
“Manipuri classical dance has got a bright future as many youth, both females and males, are taking up dancing as a profession, said Bimbavati Devi, a classical dancer from Kolkata.
Manipuri classical and martial arts dance forms have fascinated many foreign artists like Jonathan Julian Forster of France.
Forster recently performed a solo Thang-Ta performance while his mother Angela Sofia Sterzer performed a Manipuri Classical dance amidst much applause from the crowd.
“This is amazing that they have come from Paris to Manipur and performing Thang-Ta martial art. And this is the second time they have come and this is really encouraging to the people,” said Bracjachand Singh, who watched the show.
Anjela, who arrived in India in 2001 as a tourist, fell in love with Indian classical dances and learned Manipuri classical dance from Kolkota-based Guru Jiten. She has now opened a dance school in Paris where she is teaches Manipuri dance to the French.
Classical dancers from different parts of the country took part in the four-day long Festival of Classical Manipur Solo Dance.
The event was held under the aegis of Manipur State Kala Akademi to spread awareness about the classical dance among the youth.
“This solo classical festival will surely benefit the classical dancers, especially those learning different forms of classical dances,” said S. Bideshwor Sharma, the Secretary, Manipur State Kala Academy and one of the organisers of the event.
Manipuri dance forms like the Ras Lila, Pung Cholom, Nupa Cholom and Thoibi enthralled the audience, who turned up in large numbers.
“Manipuri classical dance has got a bright future as many youth, both females and males, are taking up dancing as a profession, said Bimbavati Devi, a classical dancer from Kolkata.
Manipuri classical and martial arts dance forms have fascinated many foreign artists like Jonathan Julian Forster of France.
Forster recently performed a solo Thang-Ta performance while his mother Angela Sofia Sterzer performed a Manipuri Classical dance amidst much applause from the crowd.
“This is amazing that they have come from Paris to Manipur and performing Thang-Ta martial art. And this is the second time they have come and this is really encouraging to the people,” said Bracjachand Singh, who watched the show.
Anjela, who arrived in India in 2001 as a tourist, fell in love with Indian classical dances and learned Manipuri classical dance from Kolkota-based Guru Jiten. She has now opened a dance school in Paris where she is teaches Manipuri dance to the French.
Man held for selling wildlife meat
IMPHAL, Nov 28 – The owner of a food stall has been arrested for allegedly selling porcupine and wild boar meat during the on-going Manipur Sangai festival 2012.
The Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Dr Anil Kumar told reporters here yesterday that the accused has been arrested under Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 on the basis of alleged sale of wildlife products. “He was produced before the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Imphal East last evening”, a senior Forest official said.”
The food stall owner has been identified as Oinam Bojo Singh of Sagolband Moirang Leirak in Imphal West district. The Forest department took the action after local dailies published news items on the open sale of wildlife meat at the food court of the festival.
People for Animals (PFA) activists on November 24 collected the meat claimed by the stall owner as that of porcupine and wild boar. The stall was selling the wildlife meat at Rs 100 per plate.
Meanwhile, the arrested proprietor has been released on payment of Rs 12,000 as fine as per provisions under Schedule 3 and 4 of Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 after he was produced before the court today.
The Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Dr Anil Kumar told reporters here yesterday that the accused has been arrested under Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 on the basis of alleged sale of wildlife products. “He was produced before the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Imphal East last evening”, a senior Forest official said.”
The food stall owner has been identified as Oinam Bojo Singh of Sagolband Moirang Leirak in Imphal West district. The Forest department took the action after local dailies published news items on the open sale of wildlife meat at the food court of the festival.
People for Animals (PFA) activists on November 24 collected the meat claimed by the stall owner as that of porcupine and wild boar. The stall was selling the wildlife meat at Rs 100 per plate.
Meanwhile, the arrested proprietor has been released on payment of Rs 12,000 as fine as per provisions under Schedule 3 and 4 of Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 after he was produced before the court today.
Have 12 kids, Minister tells Meitei women
Manipur Social Welfare Minister Mirabai Akoijam has
urged women of the non-tribal Meiteis to bear at least 12 children each
to save the minority community from extinction.
The
Meiteis should stop limiting the number of children through family
planning, she said, speaking at a function here on Sunday. Ms. Akoijam
said the population of the male Meiteis had come down drastically as a
result of violent incidents.
Rare animals meat being sold at Manipur fest
IMPHAL: The Thoubal unit of People for Animals (PFA) made the shocking disclosure that a food outlet at the ongoing Manipur Sangai Festival has on offer an array of dishes made from the meat of rare wild animals like boar (wild pig) and porcupine.
Members of PFA, Thoubal, who carried out a brief survey at the festival venue on Saturday, found that the stall-owners were selling porcupine and wild boar meat openly at the festival for Rs 100 a plate of five to six pieces.
"This shameful act is being carried out in the open at the Sangai festival. We don't know how the festival organizers, who are responsible officials of the state government, granted permission to the stall-owners to sell the meat of endangered species," said Lourembem Bishwajit, managing trustee of PFA, Thoubal.
"We have even procured samples of what is being claimed to be porcupine and wild boar meat from the stall-owners as documentary evidence. If the matter turns serious, we will send them to experts for confirmation after consulting forest authorities," Bishwajit said. Not only does the stall banner mention that the menu offers the meat of the rare animals, the names of the animals in question are also mentioned in the thermo-flasks at the stall and the owners were seen serving the meat to people openly, he said.
"The festival is named after the rare and endangered Sangai (brow-antlered deer), but this doesn't mean that other endangered animals' dishes can be sold in the open at the fair. This shows that the stall-owners and festival organizers do not want to protect and conserve wild animals. The foreigners who are attending the festival will have a dreadful impression of Manipur and its people," Bishwajit said.
Wild boar and porcupine are listed in schedules III and IV respectively of the endangered animals of the country under the Protection of Wildlife Act, 1972, he said. He appealed to the forest department to take immediate action against the stall-owners and festival organizers.
Members of PFA, Thoubal, who carried out a brief survey at the festival venue on Saturday, found that the stall-owners were selling porcupine and wild boar meat openly at the festival for Rs 100 a plate of five to six pieces.
"This shameful act is being carried out in the open at the Sangai festival. We don't know how the festival organizers, who are responsible officials of the state government, granted permission to the stall-owners to sell the meat of endangered species," said Lourembem Bishwajit, managing trustee of PFA, Thoubal.
"We have even procured samples of what is being claimed to be porcupine and wild boar meat from the stall-owners as documentary evidence. If the matter turns serious, we will send them to experts for confirmation after consulting forest authorities," Bishwajit said. Not only does the stall banner mention that the menu offers the meat of the rare animals, the names of the animals in question are also mentioned in the thermo-flasks at the stall and the owners were seen serving the meat to people openly, he said.
"The festival is named after the rare and endangered Sangai (brow-antlered deer), but this doesn't mean that other endangered animals' dishes can be sold in the open at the fair. This shows that the stall-owners and festival organizers do not want to protect and conserve wild animals. The foreigners who are attending the festival will have a dreadful impression of Manipur and its people," Bishwajit said.
Wild boar and porcupine are listed in schedules III and IV respectively of the endangered animals of the country under the Protection of Wildlife Act, 1972, he said. He appealed to the forest department to take immediate action against the stall-owners and festival organizers.
Manipur Congress president narrowly escapes militant attack
Former deputy chief minister and working president of the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) Deborah Marak, had a narrow escape when heavily armed tribal Garo rebels fired in the air at a public meeting in her constituency in Meghalaya's East Garo Hills district, police said on Sunday.
"Heavily armed militants suspected to be those of the break-away-faction of the Achik National Volunteer Council (ANVC) came to the public function at a village under Williamnagar area, had an altercation with Marak and fired several rounds in the air last evening," district administrator Vijay Mantri told PTI.
He said, the reason behind their attack is yet to be ascertained.
The incident took place at around 4:30pm on Saturday evening when Marak was distributing prizes for a football tournament involving several teams from the constituency, police said.
Marak who did not take security cover, sustained injuries in her legs and knees while fleeing from the area. The breakaway faction of the militant organisation had threatened legislators in the Garo Hills region of dire consequences if they hold public meeting without their permission.
The leader of the breakaway faction of the ANVC today issued a stern warning to prospective candidates and sitting legislators of a free and fair declaration of the development projects and expenditures for the areas.
"Please pay heed to the given warnings and show some initiative before campaigning. It is time to show results. We are also interested to know the implementation of the Rs5 crore area development scheme of each MLAs, just to make sure public money is not being used for political campaigns," Rimpu Marak, the break-away leader said in a statement to the media.
Marak denied having received any extortion demands from the rebels. The ANVC which is fighting for a separate 'Achik land' for the Garo tribals, is under a tri-partite ceasefire agreement with the Centre and the state.
"Heavily armed militants suspected to be those of the break-away-faction of the Achik National Volunteer Council (ANVC) came to the public function at a village under Williamnagar area, had an altercation with Marak and fired several rounds in the air last evening," district administrator Vijay Mantri told PTI.
He said, the reason behind their attack is yet to be ascertained.
The incident took place at around 4:30pm on Saturday evening when Marak was distributing prizes for a football tournament involving several teams from the constituency, police said.
Marak who did not take security cover, sustained injuries in her legs and knees while fleeing from the area. The breakaway faction of the militant organisation had threatened legislators in the Garo Hills region of dire consequences if they hold public meeting without their permission.
The leader of the breakaway faction of the ANVC today issued a stern warning to prospective candidates and sitting legislators of a free and fair declaration of the development projects and expenditures for the areas.
"Please pay heed to the given warnings and show some initiative before campaigning. It is time to show results. We are also interested to know the implementation of the Rs5 crore area development scheme of each MLAs, just to make sure public money is not being used for political campaigns," Rimpu Marak, the break-away leader said in a statement to the media.
Marak denied having received any extortion demands from the rebels. The ANVC which is fighting for a separate 'Achik land' for the Garo tribals, is under a tri-partite ceasefire agreement with the Centre and the state.
Ishanou among 27 films for IFFI
Sobhapati Samom
IMPHAL, Nov 26 – The critically-acclaimed Manipuri feature film, Ishanou (1990), one of the masterpieces of Aribam Syam Sharma, has been included among 27 Indian feature films to be screened at the Centenary Indian Cinema section of the 43rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI), 2012 being held at Goa from November 20-30.
According to Manipur Information Centre, New Delhi, Ishanou (Chosen One) was the official selection of the Government of India for screening at the Cannes International Film Festival, 1991 and was the first ever film from the North-east showcased at the prestigious Cannes Festival.
The 91-minute colour film tells the extraordinary story of a young wife, Anoubam Kiranmala who suddenly begins to experience a series of fits and trances which the doctors cannot cure. A happy small family, somewhere in the Manipur valley, a husband (Kangabam Tomba) and wife and their little girl (Baby Molly) under the caring and protective authority of a market woman (Manbi) breaks up when Tampha, the young wife, is possessed by the divinity of the mysterious Maibi phenomenon and goes through a series of violent feats of vision and trance till she runs away from home in frantic nocturnal quest of her Maibi Guru for initiation into the sect of the chosen.
Magic and mystery break upon the mundane world of buying and selling and common rituals like that of a young girl’s ears being pierced and buying of a second-hand scooter and a promotion in office, bringing into play the world of the Maibis with their exquisite ritual singing and dancing and worship and myth-making.
But behind the colourful spectacle of traditional Lai Haraoba, into which Tampha almost loses herself in enraptured absorption, there lurks the pain of a mother who can no longer nurture a child who is by then a stranger. The film closes on those images of estrangement that almost stifles the sheer grandeur and glory of the ritual festival.
Eminent littérateur MK Binodini scripted the screenplay of the story. Girish Padhiar was the cameraman and Ujjwal Nandi was the editor.
IMPHAL, Nov 26 – The critically-acclaimed Manipuri feature film, Ishanou (1990), one of the masterpieces of Aribam Syam Sharma, has been included among 27 Indian feature films to be screened at the Centenary Indian Cinema section of the 43rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI), 2012 being held at Goa from November 20-30.
According to Manipur Information Centre, New Delhi, Ishanou (Chosen One) was the official selection of the Government of India for screening at the Cannes International Film Festival, 1991 and was the first ever film from the North-east showcased at the prestigious Cannes Festival.
The 91-minute colour film tells the extraordinary story of a young wife, Anoubam Kiranmala who suddenly begins to experience a series of fits and trances which the doctors cannot cure. A happy small family, somewhere in the Manipur valley, a husband (Kangabam Tomba) and wife and their little girl (Baby Molly) under the caring and protective authority of a market woman (Manbi) breaks up when Tampha, the young wife, is possessed by the divinity of the mysterious Maibi phenomenon and goes through a series of violent feats of vision and trance till she runs away from home in frantic nocturnal quest of her Maibi Guru for initiation into the sect of the chosen.
Magic and mystery break upon the mundane world of buying and selling and common rituals like that of a young girl’s ears being pierced and buying of a second-hand scooter and a promotion in office, bringing into play the world of the Maibis with their exquisite ritual singing and dancing and worship and myth-making.
But behind the colourful spectacle of traditional Lai Haraoba, into which Tampha almost loses herself in enraptured absorption, there lurks the pain of a mother who can no longer nurture a child who is by then a stranger. The film closes on those images of estrangement that almost stifles the sheer grandeur and glory of the ritual festival.
Eminent littérateur MK Binodini scripted the screenplay of the story. Girish Padhiar was the cameraman and Ujjwal Nandi was the editor.
Manipur hosts festival to provide impetus to tourism
Imphal, Nov.23 (ANI): The Manipur Government and its Department of
Tourism have organised the ten-day 'Sangai' festival with an aim to
provide an impetus to tourism industry and promote the region's cultural
heritage.
The cultural extravaganza began with the aim to showcase the best of Manipur and every year it commences from November 21-30.
It highlights the state's cultural heritage, folk dances, indigenous cuisine and music, adventure sports and natural beauty.
The state's Deputy Chief Minister, Gaikhangam, inaugurated the festival at Hapta Kangjeibung here two days ago.
Olympics bronze medallist MC Mary Kom and Royal Thai Embassy Minister Counsellor (commercial) Tharadol Thongruang also attended the inaugural function.
A visitor, Ningthoujam Roshan Singh told the reporters that such festivals would promote tourism in the state.
"I have been a very regular visitor in this festival since three to four years and this time I am finding very new editions in this like the fireworks that we have just seen. So, I am enjoying this festival a lot. I don't think this is the only platform for promoting tourism but I think this is one of the very good platforms for promoting tourism in the state," said Singh.
The 'Festival' was earlier known as the 'Manipur Tourism Festival' which began in 2008.
In 2010, it was renamed as 'Manipur Sangai Festival' with an aim to popularise 'Sangai', the rare species of dear to be found in Manipur.
During the Festival, the artists showcased their rich culture and heritage through their dance performances.
Amid enthusiasm, another visitor, Subdari expressed her gratitude towards the authorities for giving her golden opportunity to participate.
"I feel happy as I think I am getting a golden chance to join this one and to participate in this. I am participating as I have my own food stall," said Subdari.
The festival showcased the finest of handloom, handicrafts and fine arts indigenous cuisine products of the province.
In the recent years, the 'Sangai Festival' has assumed greater significance and the 2012 edition celebrates the ethnic diversity of Manipur Society.
Cultural programmes were also organized to entertain visitors.
International cultural troupes also performed and enthralled the audience at the festival.
The cultural extravaganza began with the aim to showcase the best of Manipur and every year it commences from November 21-30.
It highlights the state's cultural heritage, folk dances, indigenous cuisine and music, adventure sports and natural beauty.
The state's Deputy Chief Minister, Gaikhangam, inaugurated the festival at Hapta Kangjeibung here two days ago.
Olympics bronze medallist MC Mary Kom and Royal Thai Embassy Minister Counsellor (commercial) Tharadol Thongruang also attended the inaugural function.
A visitor, Ningthoujam Roshan Singh told the reporters that such festivals would promote tourism in the state.
"I have been a very regular visitor in this festival since three to four years and this time I am finding very new editions in this like the fireworks that we have just seen. So, I am enjoying this festival a lot. I don't think this is the only platform for promoting tourism but I think this is one of the very good platforms for promoting tourism in the state," said Singh.
The 'Festival' was earlier known as the 'Manipur Tourism Festival' which began in 2008.
In 2010, it was renamed as 'Manipur Sangai Festival' with an aim to popularise 'Sangai', the rare species of dear to be found in Manipur.
During the Festival, the artists showcased their rich culture and heritage through their dance performances.
Amid enthusiasm, another visitor, Subdari expressed her gratitude towards the authorities for giving her golden opportunity to participate.
"I feel happy as I think I am getting a golden chance to join this one and to participate in this. I am participating as I have my own food stall," said Subdari.
The festival showcased the finest of handloom, handicrafts and fine arts indigenous cuisine products of the province.
In the recent years, the 'Sangai Festival' has assumed greater significance and the 2012 edition celebrates the ethnic diversity of Manipur Society.
Cultural programmes were also organized to entertain visitors.
International cultural troupes also performed and enthralled the audience at the festival.
Oranges, Manipur’s other trademark
Manipur is not just about about insurgency, bandhs, blockades and
blasts. The state is gearing up for the ninth state-level Orange
Festival, to be held on December 14 and 15 at Tamenglong, about 140 km
west of the capital. While the festival will see various interesting
events such as traditional games and sports, an orange eating
competition, the Orange Queen contest and various entertainment
programmes, its biggest attraction is the “best orange” contest, for
which the farmer gets a cash award of Rs 1 lakh. Tamenglong, also a
district, accounts for about 70 per cent of Manipur’s annual orange
production, which is estimated at about 10,000 tonnes. Tamenglong is
marked by evergreen forests, a wide variety of wildlife and a number of
waterfalls.
Talks hope with Kuki groups
Imphal, Nov 20 : Manipur deputy chief minister Gaikhangam today said the Centre would soon begin talks with Kuki militant groups who have signed the suspension of operations agreement.
He also said the state government had invited the Kuki State Demand Committee for discussions tomorrow. The committee has imposed an indefinite economic blockade on the national and state highways in Manipur since Saturday to press for a Kuki state and dialogue with the Kuki militant groups.
Gaikhangam, who returned here yesterday from New Delhi after meeting Union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, told reporters that senior officials of the ministry would arrive here after the winter session of Parliament to chalk out the modalities of talks with Kuki militant groups.
He said he had told central officials that the Kuki groups were disappointed as no progress had been made in the peace process in the past seven years. “I urged the Union home minister to start the dialogue. I am confident the talks will start soon,” he said.
Twenty Kuki militant groups, under two umbrella organisations of United Peoples Front and Kuki National Organisation, had signed the agreement in August 2005. The groups, which have been fighting for a separate Kuki state and are now living in designated camps, have been demanding initiation of talks.
Gaikhangam hoped that since the Centre has agreed to start negotiations with the militant groups, the committee would “respond positively and lift the blockade in the larger interest of the people”.
The blockade has completely dislocated supply of essential commodities in the state. More than a hundred loaded trucks and buses bound for Imphal are stranded at Jiribam town in Imphal East district and Senapati district. Transport services between Imphal and the five hill districts have also been hit.
Though the blockade entered only the third day today, some petrol pumps shut down saying they had run out of stock. Gaikhangam said he would look into this. He also said arrangements had been made to bring the stranded vehicles to Imphal. “There is no reason to worry about scarcity of fuel and other essential items. The state has a government which will do everything to ensure its supply,” he said.
He also said the state government had invited the Kuki State Demand Committee for discussions tomorrow. The committee has imposed an indefinite economic blockade on the national and state highways in Manipur since Saturday to press for a Kuki state and dialogue with the Kuki militant groups.
Gaikhangam, who returned here yesterday from New Delhi after meeting Union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, told reporters that senior officials of the ministry would arrive here after the winter session of Parliament to chalk out the modalities of talks with Kuki militant groups.
He said he had told central officials that the Kuki groups were disappointed as no progress had been made in the peace process in the past seven years. “I urged the Union home minister to start the dialogue. I am confident the talks will start soon,” he said.
Twenty Kuki militant groups, under two umbrella organisations of United Peoples Front and Kuki National Organisation, had signed the agreement in August 2005. The groups, which have been fighting for a separate Kuki state and are now living in designated camps, have been demanding initiation of talks.
Gaikhangam hoped that since the Centre has agreed to start negotiations with the militant groups, the committee would “respond positively and lift the blockade in the larger interest of the people”.
The blockade has completely dislocated supply of essential commodities in the state. More than a hundred loaded trucks and buses bound for Imphal are stranded at Jiribam town in Imphal East district and Senapati district. Transport services between Imphal and the five hill districts have also been hit.
Though the blockade entered only the third day today, some petrol pumps shut down saying they had run out of stock. Gaikhangam said he would look into this. He also said arrangements had been made to bring the stranded vehicles to Imphal. “There is no reason to worry about scarcity of fuel and other essential items. The state has a government which will do everything to ensure its supply,” he said.
Vehicle lifters' gang busted in Manipur
IMPHAL: The police along with volunteers of a Muslim body 'Anjuman Islah-E-Muashrah' busted a gang of seven vehicle lifters and recovered 10 two-wheelers from them at Muslim-dominated Lilong area in Thoubal district.
Some electronic gadgets like laptops, colour printers, scanners, smart-card making machines, lamination and spiral-binding machines used by them for making fake documents and smart cards were also seized.
The accused along with the stolen vehicles and the seized equipment were taken to the Lilong police station on Saturday evening.
A key member of Anjuman said the seven were pulled from different locations at Lilong area during a special drive launched since Friday morning.
Sources said the Muslim welfare body has been working relentlessly to check drug abuse, theft and other crimes since the past few years in the area and that it would continue with its drive in collaboration with the police or Assam Rifles or both.
Some electronic gadgets like laptops, colour printers, scanners, smart-card making machines, lamination and spiral-binding machines used by them for making fake documents and smart cards were also seized.
The accused along with the stolen vehicles and the seized equipment were taken to the Lilong police station on Saturday evening.
A key member of Anjuman said the seven were pulled from different locations at Lilong area during a special drive launched since Friday morning.
Sources said the Muslim welfare body has been working relentlessly to check drug abuse, theft and other crimes since the past few years in the area and that it would continue with its drive in collaboration with the police or Assam Rifles or both.
Manipur can't be divided by any demand: Deputy chief minister
IMPHAL: In the face of NSCN (IM) leadership's Naga integration stance and the renewed demand for a separate Kuki state advocated by a Kuki pressure group, Manipur deputy chief minister Gaikhangam on Tuesday said the state could not be divided by any demand.
If any reasonable demands are put up, the government will discuss them for consideration. But any issue, which will slice Manipur into pieces, will not be taken into account and that every section of the society living in harmony in Manipur will also not allow to disintegrate the state, said Gaikhangam, who also holds the home portfolio.
"Both the central and the state government will not entertain or consider any demand to break Manipur and that the state government has its firm stance to safeguard Manipur's territorial integrity," Gaikhangam told reporters on the sidelines of a felicitation programme accorded to him for being appointed as the deputy CM by Autonomous District Council members of Tamenglong district at Raigailong in Imphal west on Tuesday.
The Naga minister, who is also the president of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, said the state government had full confidence to the commitments given by the central leaders that Manipur's territorial integrity would be protected.
On December 3 last year, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said at a huge public rally in Imphal that the Centre was committed to safeguard Manipur's territorial integrity. In the presence of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, the Prime Minister said there was no proposal of "supra state" structure for the Nagas.
Integration of all Nagas living in the northeast under one geographical and administrative entity is said to be one of the key agendas featured in the reported final stage of the 15-year-old NSCN (IM)-Centre talks.
On the other hand, the United Naga Council (UNC) is fast campaigning for an alternative administrative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur outside the state government pending the Naga political solution.
The Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDS), gearing up its demand for creation of a separate Kuki state, has called an indefinite road block in all state and national highways passing through Kuki-inhabited areas in Manipur from Thursday evening.
If any reasonable demands are put up, the government will discuss them for consideration. But any issue, which will slice Manipur into pieces, will not be taken into account and that every section of the society living in harmony in Manipur will also not allow to disintegrate the state, said Gaikhangam, who also holds the home portfolio.
"Both the central and the state government will not entertain or consider any demand to break Manipur and that the state government has its firm stance to safeguard Manipur's territorial integrity," Gaikhangam told reporters on the sidelines of a felicitation programme accorded to him for being appointed as the deputy CM by Autonomous District Council members of Tamenglong district at Raigailong in Imphal west on Tuesday.
The Naga minister, who is also the president of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, said the state government had full confidence to the commitments given by the central leaders that Manipur's territorial integrity would be protected.
On December 3 last year, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said at a huge public rally in Imphal that the Centre was committed to safeguard Manipur's territorial integrity. In the presence of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, the Prime Minister said there was no proposal of "supra state" structure for the Nagas.
Integration of all Nagas living in the northeast under one geographical and administrative entity is said to be one of the key agendas featured in the reported final stage of the 15-year-old NSCN (IM)-Centre talks.
On the other hand, the United Naga Council (UNC) is fast campaigning for an alternative administrative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur outside the state government pending the Naga political solution.
The Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDS), gearing up its demand for creation of a separate Kuki state, has called an indefinite road block in all state and national highways passing through Kuki-inhabited areas in Manipur from Thursday evening.
Panel’s ILP plan runs into Ibobi wall
Imphal, Nov 14 : The Ibobi Singh-government is taking steps to prevent the joint committee on inner-line permit (ILP) from issuing stay permits to non-Manipuris living in Manipur.
The joint committee, a conglomerate of citizens’ organisations, had already announced that it would start issuing forms for stay permits from Monday as part of its campaign to detect foreigners.
The committee said barring those coming for government services, education, sport, cultural purposes and living in Manipur since before 1947, the stay permit would be issued to all non-Manipuris. It said the last date for form submission was December 19.
The committee had earlier given an ultimatum to both the state government and the Centre to implement the ILP system in Manipur by November 18.
The committee gave the ultimatum after Union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde virtually rejected a decision taken by the Manipur Assembly in July this year urging the Centre to implement the system, which is existing in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.
After the BTAD riots, the Ibobi Singh-government launched a campaign to detect foreigners. The joint committee felt that this was not enough.
Ibobi Singh is away on a foreign tour and deputy chief minister Gaikhangam, who is holding the home portfolio, is the chief minister in-charge now.
Official sources said Gaikhangam was consulting senior police officials and legal experts to foil the plan by the joint committee.
“The government will not remain silent if steps are taken by civil organisations to issue permits. This will complicate things and cause serious law and order problem,” an official source said.
The source said the government was taking steps to check the inflow of foreigners by setting up checkgates at all the entry points, including Jiribam, Manipur’s gateway to Assam. Many outsiders, who had tried to enter Manipur without proper documents proving their Indian citizenship, were turned back from Jiribam, the source added.
A source close to the deputy chief minister said Gaikhangam appreciated the spirit of the committee but was not prepared to remain silent. The source said only the Centre could implement the ILP system.
The joint committee, however, is prepared to face government opposition. It tried to speak to the government, but received no response, the spokesperson for the joint committee, Joy Chingakham, said.
Joint committee convener Sapamcha Jadumani said they were prepared to face any “obstruction” from the government and would go ahead with the plan.
The joint committee, a conglomerate of citizens’ organisations, had already announced that it would start issuing forms for stay permits from Monday as part of its campaign to detect foreigners.
The committee said barring those coming for government services, education, sport, cultural purposes and living in Manipur since before 1947, the stay permit would be issued to all non-Manipuris. It said the last date for form submission was December 19.
The committee had earlier given an ultimatum to both the state government and the Centre to implement the ILP system in Manipur by November 18.
The committee gave the ultimatum after Union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde virtually rejected a decision taken by the Manipur Assembly in July this year urging the Centre to implement the system, which is existing in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.
After the BTAD riots, the Ibobi Singh-government launched a campaign to detect foreigners. The joint committee felt that this was not enough.
Ibobi Singh is away on a foreign tour and deputy chief minister Gaikhangam, who is holding the home portfolio, is the chief minister in-charge now.
Official sources said Gaikhangam was consulting senior police officials and legal experts to foil the plan by the joint committee.
“The government will not remain silent if steps are taken by civil organisations to issue permits. This will complicate things and cause serious law and order problem,” an official source said.
The source said the government was taking steps to check the inflow of foreigners by setting up checkgates at all the entry points, including Jiribam, Manipur’s gateway to Assam. Many outsiders, who had tried to enter Manipur without proper documents proving their Indian citizenship, were turned back from Jiribam, the source added.
A source close to the deputy chief minister said Gaikhangam appreciated the spirit of the committee but was not prepared to remain silent. The source said only the Centre could implement the ILP system.
The joint committee, however, is prepared to face government opposition. It tried to speak to the government, but received no response, the spokesperson for the joint committee, Joy Chingakham, said.
Joint committee convener Sapamcha Jadumani said they were prepared to face any “obstruction” from the government and would go ahead with the plan.
Civic staff on strike in Manipur, others plan stir
Salaries pending for 24 months; no response yet from government
Various sections of government employees have started a strike demanding payment of salaries and allowances pending for nearly 24 months. The Manipur government is unable to pay salaries and allowances ahead of Ningol Chakkouba, the biggest festival, to be celebrated on Thursday.
The employees expect no solution to the crisis as Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, also in charge of the Finance Ministry, is in Australia on a prolonged private visit. Chief Secretary D.S. Poonia and other top officials too are out of station on leave.
The financial crunch has resulted in a moratorium on all cash transactions. While some sections of employees are denied their salaries, contractors have also been denied payments. Some have suspended construction works as they cannot buy materials and pay the workers.
The restive employees of the Imphal Municipal Council came out of their offices on Monday warranting intervention of the riot police. The employees immediately launched an indefinite ‘cease work’ demanding payment of salaries.
“Garbage has not been cleared from Tuesday morning in Imphal,” secretary of the Imphal Municipal Council Employees' Union Subita Thoudam told The Hindu. She said it was inexcusable that salaries were not paid ahead of the festival, when married daughters and sisters are invited to a sumptuous lunch. The officials have sought 20 days for the payments, but it was merely a ploy to buy time as assurances had never been kept, she added.
Employees of five departments — PWD, public health engineering, irrigation and flood control, minor irrigation and electricity — are to launch an indefinite strike from November 20 if the salaries pending for 19 months were not paid by November 19.
They have been staging a sit-in since November 6 but there was no response from the government. They had submitted a memorandum to Mr. Ibobi Singh for clearing the salaries.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Gaikhangam is looking after the office of the Chief Minister during the absence of Mr. Singh. Official sources said Mr. Gaikhangam is merely disposing of routine files and not authorised to take major policy decisions.
Various sections of government employees have started a strike demanding payment of salaries and allowances pending for nearly 24 months. The Manipur government is unable to pay salaries and allowances ahead of Ningol Chakkouba, the biggest festival, to be celebrated on Thursday.
The employees expect no solution to the crisis as Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, also in charge of the Finance Ministry, is in Australia on a prolonged private visit. Chief Secretary D.S. Poonia and other top officials too are out of station on leave.
The financial crunch has resulted in a moratorium on all cash transactions. While some sections of employees are denied their salaries, contractors have also been denied payments. Some have suspended construction works as they cannot buy materials and pay the workers.
The restive employees of the Imphal Municipal Council came out of their offices on Monday warranting intervention of the riot police. The employees immediately launched an indefinite ‘cease work’ demanding payment of salaries.
“Garbage has not been cleared from Tuesday morning in Imphal,” secretary of the Imphal Municipal Council Employees' Union Subita Thoudam told The Hindu. She said it was inexcusable that salaries were not paid ahead of the festival, when married daughters and sisters are invited to a sumptuous lunch. The officials have sought 20 days for the payments, but it was merely a ploy to buy time as assurances had never been kept, she added.
Employees of five departments — PWD, public health engineering, irrigation and flood control, minor irrigation and electricity — are to launch an indefinite strike from November 20 if the salaries pending for 19 months were not paid by November 19.
They have been staging a sit-in since November 6 but there was no response from the government. They had submitted a memorandum to Mr. Ibobi Singh for clearing the salaries.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Gaikhangam is looking after the office of the Chief Minister during the absence of Mr. Singh. Official sources said Mr. Gaikhangam is merely disposing of routine files and not authorised to take major policy decisions.
Gaikhangam states GoM's stand on SoO
Imphal, Nov 12 : Maintaining that the State Government is just a facilitator to the Suspension of Operation pact inked between the Centre, State Govt and the KNO and UPF, Home Minister Gaikhangam today said that the State Government only came into the reckoning after the pact was signed between the Kuki armed outfits and the Indian Army.
The SoO pact was first signed between the Kuki armed groups and the Centre in 2005 and the State Government entered the pact only 2008 .
On the pronouncement of the KNO that no progress has been made even after 7 years of the agreement coming into force, Gaikhangam said that the State Government is not well acquainted with the clause under which the agreement was first inked.
However the State Government has been urging the Centre to start a dialogue with the Kuki groups as early as possible.
Once the agenda of the talk or the demand put up by the Kuki armed groups become clear, then the same would be discussed by the State Cabinet, he added.
On the reported deal being readied between the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India, Gaikhangam said that Delhi is yet to give the pact in writing to the State Government.
The SoO pact was first signed between the Kuki armed groups and the Centre in 2005 and the State Government entered the pact only 2008 .
On the pronouncement of the KNO that no progress has been made even after 7 years of the agreement coming into force, Gaikhangam said that the State Government is not well acquainted with the clause under which the agreement was first inked.
However the State Government has been urging the Centre to start a dialogue with the Kuki groups as early as possible.
Once the agenda of the talk or the demand put up by the Kuki armed groups become clear, then the same would be discussed by the State Cabinet, he added.
On the reported deal being readied between the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India, Gaikhangam said that Delhi is yet to give the pact in writing to the State Government.
Manipur: state and family care together
Sobhapati Samom
Imphal, Nov 12 : The Nongmaithem family is an example of how Manipur has benefited from the state health programmes. The infant mortality rate has dipped to 11 in 2011 from 14 in 2010.
For Imphal residents Nongmaithem Rocky (38) and his wife Meena (27) giving nutritional food to their children is not challenging since breast feeding till the baby's first birthday is a tradition in their society.
Most couples in the state have an extended family support system besides getting support from Anganwadis and other health awareness programmes through local health workers and NGOs.
"The state health programmes also help in arranging our children's food," says Rocky, a small time trader.
"The Anganwadi centre helps a lot in shaping our children."
The ICDS is being implemented at 4501 Anganwadis in Manipur. Rocky's wife Meena, a private school teacher, was also among the state's 15,969 women beneficiaries (2010-11) of Janani Surakhsha Yojana (JSY), a centrally-sponsored scheme under National Rural Health Mission for pregnant women.
The cash assistance of Rs. 700 with delivery and post-delivery care helped her with her three-year-old second baby girl Triska in 2009 unlike the first baby girl Parnika in 2007.
NRHM has improved public health tremendously besides reducing infant death rate, maternity mortality and neo-natal mortality in this northeastern state which now has one of the best records in tackling malnutrition and hunger in India.
For every 1000 live births, 11 die in Manipur as compared to 59 in Madhya Pradesh as per the latest Sample Registration Survey reports. The infant mortality rate dipped to 11 in 2011 against 14 in 2010.
"Besides vaccination programmes health mela, newborn care week and village health day helps us in sharing knowledge with village women," says a newly appointed felicitator Semsoon who captains 20 ASHAs (health activists) at the village level and is attached to a government health centre near Imphal.
Imphal, Nov 12 : The Nongmaithem family is an example of how Manipur has benefited from the state health programmes. The infant mortality rate has dipped to 11 in 2011 from 14 in 2010.
For Imphal residents Nongmaithem Rocky (38) and his wife Meena (27) giving nutritional food to their children is not challenging since breast feeding till the baby's first birthday is a tradition in their society.
Most couples in the state have an extended family support system besides getting support from Anganwadis and other health awareness programmes through local health workers and NGOs.
"The state health programmes also help in arranging our children's food," says Rocky, a small time trader.
"The Anganwadi centre helps a lot in shaping our children."
The ICDS is being implemented at 4501 Anganwadis in Manipur. Rocky's wife Meena, a private school teacher, was also among the state's 15,969 women beneficiaries (2010-11) of Janani Surakhsha Yojana (JSY), a centrally-sponsored scheme under National Rural Health Mission for pregnant women.
The cash assistance of Rs. 700 with delivery and post-delivery care helped her with her three-year-old second baby girl Triska in 2009 unlike the first baby girl Parnika in 2007.
NRHM has improved public health tremendously besides reducing infant death rate, maternity mortality and neo-natal mortality in this northeastern state which now has one of the best records in tackling malnutrition and hunger in India.
For every 1000 live births, 11 die in Manipur as compared to 59 in Madhya Pradesh as per the latest Sample Registration Survey reports. The infant mortality rate dipped to 11 in 2011 against 14 in 2010.
"Besides vaccination programmes health mela, newborn care week and village health day helps us in sharing knowledge with village women," says a newly appointed felicitator Semsoon who captains 20 ASHAs (health activists) at the village level and is attached to a government health centre near Imphal.
Lawyers' strike paralyzes work at Gauhati HC's Imphal bench
IMPHAL: Work at Gauhati high court's Imphal bench came to a grinding halt on Thursday as lawyers of the bench began an indefinite ceasework in pursuit of their demand to appoint seven judges when a separate HC for Manipur is set up.
This has dealt a blow to thousands of litigants of the state even as there is likelihood of setting up separate high courts for Manipur, Tripura and Meghalaya by the Centre within the current month ahead of Parliament's winter session, said the legal fraternity.
High Court Bar Association (HCBA), Manipur, president advocate N Kumarjit Singh said since the Centre is planning to appoint four Judges for the proposed HC in the state, the ceasework has been launched. It is not possible for a full-fledged High HC to be run by only four judges , he added, while demanding that the seven judges should be appointed from eligible members from both bar and bench of the state as they should be given the chance for elevation.
Appointment of judges in the proposed Manipur HC from other states will never be accepted by the association, he said. Earlier chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh had pressed the Centre to set up the proposed HC with a minimum strength of five judges but the plea was turned down, rued Kumarjit. The association's general secretary, Roshni Piba, said they raised the demand with Union law minister Salman Khursid in August this year. As the minister gave a positive remark to the demand, a ceasework strike launched by the association the previous month was suspended, he said. He added that bar members had remained hopeful that the demand would be implemented.
Since the association came to learn that only four judges would be made available in the proposed state HC, the association has been compelled to launch the ceasework strike, he said. He added that the decision to launch the stir followed a meeting of the association convened on Wednesday.
He said the demands would be reiterated to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Union law minister and the chief minister.
The association's ex-officio executive member, advocate N Jyotendro, said nearly 7000 cases are pending in the Imphal bench of the Gauhati HC - the second highest figure in NE after Assam.
This has dealt a blow to thousands of litigants of the state even as there is likelihood of setting up separate high courts for Manipur, Tripura and Meghalaya by the Centre within the current month ahead of Parliament's winter session, said the legal fraternity.
High Court Bar Association (HCBA), Manipur, president advocate N Kumarjit Singh said since the Centre is planning to appoint four Judges for the proposed HC in the state, the ceasework has been launched. It is not possible for a full-fledged High HC to be run by only four judges , he added, while demanding that the seven judges should be appointed from eligible members from both bar and bench of the state as they should be given the chance for elevation.
Appointment of judges in the proposed Manipur HC from other states will never be accepted by the association, he said. Earlier chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh had pressed the Centre to set up the proposed HC with a minimum strength of five judges but the plea was turned down, rued Kumarjit. The association's general secretary, Roshni Piba, said they raised the demand with Union law minister Salman Khursid in August this year. As the minister gave a positive remark to the demand, a ceasework strike launched by the association the previous month was suspended, he said. He added that bar members had remained hopeful that the demand would be implemented.
Since the association came to learn that only four judges would be made available in the proposed state HC, the association has been compelled to launch the ceasework strike, he said. He added that the decision to launch the stir followed a meeting of the association convened on Wednesday.
He said the demands would be reiterated to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Union law minister and the chief minister.
The association's ex-officio executive member, advocate N Jyotendro, said nearly 7000 cases are pending in the Imphal bench of the Gauhati HC - the second highest figure in NE after Assam.
Manipur Gears Up For Ningol Chakkouba
Imphal, November 08 2012:
Rare but delicious fish varieties such as Pengba and Ngaton would be put
up for sale for the Ningol Chakkouba festival at four specific
locations of Imphal areas, said S Tomba & Sons Integrated fish
Farming Private Limited proprietor S Surchandra of Hiyangthang Mamang
Leikai.
considered to be highly endangered, Pengba and Ngaton fish varieties are being reared at the private firm's ponds spread over 3 paris out of the total area of 8.5 paris, he said and informed that they would be put on sale for the said festival at Rs 700 each per kilogram.
According to Surchandra, who is also a national and State award winner in recognition of his endeavour to preserve and culture the indigenous fish varieties, the wholesale rate of the fishes at normal times are Rs 800 each per kg but the same would be sold at the reduced price to enable the people of Manipur re-enjoy taste of the delicacies.
Apart from the firm set to participate at the annual fish fair to be held at Hapta Kangjeibung, Pengba and Ngaton varieties would be put on sale at Singjamei Bazar, Kwakeithel and Uripok end of the BT Flyover, the award-winning entrepreneur informed while pointing out that the fish varieties had been cultured/reared at the Hiyangthang Mamang Leikai complex since 1985 and subsequently produced Pengba variety for sale to the masses since 2002 and Ngaton five years later.
considered to be highly endangered, Pengba and Ngaton fish varieties are being reared at the private firm's ponds spread over 3 paris out of the total area of 8.5 paris, he said and informed that they would be put on sale for the said festival at Rs 700 each per kilogram.
According to Surchandra, who is also a national and State award winner in recognition of his endeavour to preserve and culture the indigenous fish varieties, the wholesale rate of the fishes at normal times are Rs 800 each per kg but the same would be sold at the reduced price to enable the people of Manipur re-enjoy taste of the delicacies.
Apart from the firm set to participate at the annual fish fair to be held at Hapta Kangjeibung, Pengba and Ngaton varieties would be put on sale at Singjamei Bazar, Kwakeithel and Uripok end of the BT Flyover, the award-winning entrepreneur informed while pointing out that the fish varieties had been cultured/reared at the Hiyangthang Mamang Leikai complex since 1985 and subsequently produced Pengba variety for sale to the masses since 2002 and Ngaton five years later.
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While confiding that the Pengba and Ngaton rearing area would be expanded in subsequent years, he also stated that efforts are on to culture and produce 'Nganap', another highly endangered indigenous fish variety.
Culturing of the Nganap variety, considered essential for religious events/rituals most importantly marriage ceremonies of the Meitei community, is being aimed for june-July next year, said the proprietor who strongly advocated that every fish farmers should strive to preserve the State fish Pengba, along with regenerating the Ngaton population.
Further informing that the firm has so far distributed 70,000 fingerlings of Ngaton and Pengba to various clubs and organisations with an aim to preserve the indigenous fish varieties, Surchandra also drew the attention of the State Government on the need to extend financial and technical assistance to the local fish farmers for ensuring survival and mass production of the delicacies.
He also regretted that out of about 20,000 fish farmers in the State, Pengba and Ngaton varieties are being reared/cultured only at fish farms located in Keirenphabi, Kumbi and Meitram besides Hiyangthang.
On hunger strike for 12 years
Irom Sharmila in India's Manipur state is force-fed in detention, but refuses to give up protest against draconian Act.
Subir Bhaumik
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Irom Sharmila has been demanding the repeal of a law that allows troops to act with impunity [AFP]
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Frail and suffering after being on fast for more than
12 years, Irom Sharmila proclaims she will die on hunger strike unless
India repeals the draconian Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) . The AFSPA gives security forces sweeping powers,including the power to shoot people dead on mere suspicion, while operating in areas afflicted by rebellions - like in Sharmila's Manipur state on India's far eastern border with Myanmar (Burma). "How can men in uniform enjoy such powers in a democracy which they so often misuse? This Act must be repealed if India is serious about its democracy. Or else, I will continue my hunger-strike until I die," says the frail Sharmila , who turned 40 on March 14 this year. On November 2, 2000, troops of India's elite counter-insurgency force Assam Rifles opened indiscriminate fire on a market at Malom near Manipur's state capital Imphal. Ten civilians were killed on the spot - among them a 60-year-old woman and three teenage boys, one of whom had won the Prime Minister's Award for Bravery. The Assam Rifles forces were upset after one of Manipur's more than a dozen rebel groups attacked one of their patrols - but the people they killed in retaliation were innocent civilians who had no involvement in the attack. "That was a Thursday, the day I used to fast every week. I was so shocked by the massacre at Malom that I just decided to continue my fast unless the draconian law was repealed," Sharmila said, lying on her bed in the Imphal hospital, where she is held in "judicial custody" and force-fed every day through a tube in her nose to keep her alive. "This is a symbolic fight for the people of Manipur who have suffered so much at the hands of the security forces. Hundreds of our boys and girls have been killed on mere suspicion of being rebels. This is possible because the AFSPA gives so much power to the security forces. This Act must go," she said. Brother Irom Singhajit Singh recalls that his sister had one last supper with pastries and sweets, then touched her mother's feet to seek her blessings to begin the epic fast. Popular weapon Hunger strike has been a popular weapon of protest in India since Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, popularised it during the anti-colonial struggle. But nobody has been on fast longer than Sharmila. Manipur has been ravaged by four decades of separatist insurgency, with close to a dozen groups involved in fighting Indian forces and, often, amongst themselves. Thousands have died - among them, many young men and women killed on mere suspicion of involvement with the rebel groups. Once in a while, Manipur has erupted over such killings, as it happened eight years ago, when another young girl Thangjam Manorama was allegedly raped and shot by the Assam Rifles soldiers and left to die on a village road. The Indian federal government set up a high power committee to look into the popular demand of scrapping the AFSPA, perhaps to pacify the people's anger.
But under severe pressure from the Army and the para-military forces, the federal government backed off, even refusing to place the committee's report for discussion in the parliament. The Army says that it cannot operate against armed rebels unless covered by this AFSPA. "Either keep the AFSPA and allow us to use it or don't involve us in counter-insurgency operations. We will be happy to be back in our barracks," says former Indian Army chief General Shankar Roychowdhury . For the past 50 years, the Indian army and its para-military troops have battled scores of rebel groups in the country's troubled Northeastern states, a region considered strategic by Delhi because it is hemmed in between Bangladesh, Myanmar, China, Nepal and Bhutan. Last year, a group of 25 civil rights activists from across the country, went on a long march from the rebellion-scarred state of Jammu and Kashmir all the way to Manipur on the India-Myanmar border to draw attention to Sharmila's epic fast and the cause for which she has sacrificed her youth. The protest march attracted global media attention and rights activists across the world came out to express solidarity with Sharmila's epic hunger strike to demand scrapping of the controversial AFSPA. But it had no effect on Delhi as the Indian government conveniently turned the other way, retaining the AFSPA and ignoring the march and the world's longest hunger strike. "The government has just one agenda now. To keep Sharmila alive, because if she dies, there may be an uproar," says Manipur's leading human rights activist Babloo Loithongbam. The 'Iron Lady of Manipur' Three days after she started her hunger strike, Irom Sharmila was arrested and charged with "attempting to commit suicide". Since then, she has been force-fed through a tube in her nose. Every year, she is released once and then promptly re-arrested on the same charges and the routine goes on. Back in her heavily-guarded hospital ward, Sharmila is unmoved and determined to carry forward her struggle. "I fast until the AFSPA goes. I have not wasted 12 years of my life to back off. Either my people live with respect or I don't eat," says Irom Sharmila, now called the "Iron Lady of Manipur" for her historic feat. Brother Singhajit remembers his sister as being "always different ". "She was always modest with few friends, never liked to dress up or use jewellery. She read religious books, practiced yoga and naturopathy," he says. "She has not changed a bit." In her years of hunger strike, Sharmila has won many awards, including one for lifetime achievement from the Asian Human Rights Commission. Nobel Laureate Shirin Ebadi has promised to take up her case before the United Nations.
But while the Trinamul Congress rules the eastern state of West Bengal and has some lawmakers in northeastern states like Sharmila's home state Manipur, the CPI(M-L) is on the margins of Indian politics. In recent weeks, the chief minister of the troubled northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, who represents the regional party, National Conference, has pitched in to support Sharmila's demand for scrapping the AFSPA. Abdullah says the Act is often misused by security forces while fighting rebel groups and civilians end up as victims of their excesses. But no major political party in India has so far come out in support of the "Iron Lady" who is making history by her unique protest. That does not worry Sharmila much. "I will do my duty, I will do what I have to for my people, without really bothering what happens," says Sharmila. |
Cellphones distributed to Manipur health workers
IMPHAL, Nov 9 – Manipur Health and Family Welfare Minister Phungzathang Tonsing distributed mobile phones to the Accredited Social Health Activists(ASHA), Auxillary Nurse Midwives (ANM) and staff nurses working under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) at a function here today.
Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Ram Muivah, Director State Health Mission Devesh Deval and district level programme coordinators besides others attended the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Tonsing hoped that the mobile phones distributed today can help provide speedy services to the people. Principal Secretary Ram Muivah said malnutrition was the biggest challenge in the State.
Speaking to The Assam Tribune, State Programme Manager Ng Monota of NHRM said a total of 3,878 Asha,194 Asha facilitators, 470 ANMs and 220 staff nurses will be receiving the mobile phones under Maternal Child Tracking System(MCTS). Among the nine districts, Senapati has the maximum number of ASHA workers.
Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Ram Muivah, Director State Health Mission Devesh Deval and district level programme coordinators besides others attended the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Tonsing hoped that the mobile phones distributed today can help provide speedy services to the people. Principal Secretary Ram Muivah said malnutrition was the biggest challenge in the State.
Speaking to The Assam Tribune, State Programme Manager Ng Monota of NHRM said a total of 3,878 Asha,194 Asha facilitators, 470 ANMs and 220 staff nurses will be receiving the mobile phones under Maternal Child Tracking System(MCTS). Among the nine districts, Senapati has the maximum number of ASHA workers.
Govt given deadline to implement ILP in Manipur
Imphal: A citizens' committee today threatened to implement the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system on its own if the Centre and Manipur government failed to implement it by November 18.
The committee had already informed the Centre and state government to implement the ILP system in the state in view of increasing influx of both people from outside and illegal migrants, a spokesman of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) said.
Noting the state government has already passed a resolution in this regard two months ago, he said, Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde has not taken any action on it.
The spokesman said the ILP was in force in neighbouring Nagaland and Mizoram and there was no question of it being unconstitutional.
He said JCILPS would implement the system on its own in the state if it was not implemented by the government by November 18 as the people coming from outside the state for work had outnumbered its total tribal population.
The committee had already informed the Centre and state government to implement the ILP system in the state in view of increasing influx of both people from outside and illegal migrants, a spokesman of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) said.
Noting the state government has already passed a resolution in this regard two months ago, he said, Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde has not taken any action on it.
The spokesman said the ILP was in force in neighbouring Nagaland and Mizoram and there was no question of it being unconstitutional.
He said JCILPS would implement the system on its own in the state if it was not implemented by the government by November 18 as the people coming from outside the state for work had outnumbered its total tribal population.
Assam Rifles rescues five China-bound tokay geckos at Moreh
IMPHAL: Joining the multi-pronged drive against the increasing poaching and smuggling of tokay geckos in the state, Assam Rifles personnel seized five geckos meant to be smuggled to China via Myanmar from two smugglers at the border town of Moreh.
Personnel of 9 Assam Rifles launched an operation to curb such smuggling and apprehended the two, along with five specimen of the rare reptile species, at Moreh Gate No 2 on Monday, said Assam Rifles officials here on Thursday.
The geckos were supposed to be smuggled from Moreh to Myanmar and were to be sent to China, the statement said, adding that the estimated cost of a gecko is about Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 in the local (grey) market.
The arrested duo — W Mani Singh and Ch Rajesh Singh — along with the geckos were handed over to Manipur forest officials at Moreh. With Monday's seizure, nearly 60 geckos have been rescued from different parts of the state by the police, People for Animals (PFA), Thoubal district and central forces in the past four months.
Owing to their purported therapeutic values, tokay geckos have a high demand in some Asian countries, though experts say there is no scientific proof to substantiate claims that the reptiles have any medicinal values.
A smuggler can easily fetch up to Rs 20 lakh for a mature gecko weighing around 200gm and measuring 14 inches in these countries.
Taking serious note of the reported smuggling of tokay geckos from Manipur to foreign countries, the wildlife crime control bureau urged the Union ministry of forests and environment to include the reptile species in the endangered animals' scheduled list under the Protection of Wildlife Act, 1972.
Personnel of 9 Assam Rifles launched an operation to curb such smuggling and apprehended the two, along with five specimen of the rare reptile species, at Moreh Gate No 2 on Monday, said Assam Rifles officials here on Thursday.
The geckos were supposed to be smuggled from Moreh to Myanmar and were to be sent to China, the statement said, adding that the estimated cost of a gecko is about Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 in the local (grey) market.
The arrested duo — W Mani Singh and Ch Rajesh Singh — along with the geckos were handed over to Manipur forest officials at Moreh. With Monday's seizure, nearly 60 geckos have been rescued from different parts of the state by the police, People for Animals (PFA), Thoubal district and central forces in the past four months.
Owing to their purported therapeutic values, tokay geckos have a high demand in some Asian countries, though experts say there is no scientific proof to substantiate claims that the reptiles have any medicinal values.
A smuggler can easily fetch up to Rs 20 lakh for a mature gecko weighing around 200gm and measuring 14 inches in these countries.
Taking serious note of the reported smuggling of tokay geckos from Manipur to foreign countries, the wildlife crime control bureau urged the Union ministry of forests and environment to include the reptile species in the endangered animals' scheduled list under the Protection of Wildlife Act, 1972.
Congress MLAs to campaign to protect Manipur's interests
Imphal: Congress MLAs in Manipur have decided to start a campaign against dilution of the state's interests in any settlement reached between the NSCN (IM) and the Centre over issues affecting the Nagas before the coming Nagaland Assembly Elections.
About 15 Congress MLAs, led by senior member Y Surachandra, would soon leave for Guwahati and Itanagar to meet Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki to discuss the issue, party sources said here on Thursday.
The team, which would include some ministers, would also meet central leaders, including the Prime Minister, Congress president and Union Home Minister over the issue, they said.
Different social organisations, like the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation, had stated in the past that Manipur would not tolerate territorial disintegration and dual system of governance in the state which "has a 2000-year-old written history".
About 15 Congress MLAs, led by senior member Y Surachandra, would soon leave for Guwahati and Itanagar to meet Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki to discuss the issue, party sources said here on Thursday.
The team, which would include some ministers, would also meet central leaders, including the Prime Minister, Congress president and Union Home Minister over the issue, they said.
Different social organisations, like the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation, had stated in the past that Manipur would not tolerate territorial disintegration and dual system of governance in the state which "has a 2000-year-old written history".
New Manipur government spokesman
Manipur education minister M Okendra Singh has been appointed as the spokesperson for the state government during a specially-convened Congress Legislative Party meeting, CLP sources said today.
The sources said congress MLA D K Korungthang was appointed as CLP secretary in the meeting presided over by by Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh last evening.
The meeting, which was convened to discuss development activities in the state, discussed the ongoing peace talks between the central government and NSCN-IM, the sources said.
A memorendum of settlement is likely to be signed between the two parties before the next Assembly elections in Nagaland next March.
The sources said congress MLA D K Korungthang was appointed as CLP secretary in the meeting presided over by by Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh last evening.
The meeting, which was convened to discuss development activities in the state, discussed the ongoing peace talks between the central government and NSCN-IM, the sources said.
A memorendum of settlement is likely to be signed between the two parties before the next Assembly elections in Nagaland next March.
HIV+ve bodybuilder battles funds crunch
IMPHAL: HIV positive bodybuilder and 'Mr Manipur' Khundrakpam Pradeep Kumar, who is participating in the 'Mr Asia' and 'Mr World' competitions in November and December, is finding it difficult to have a proper nutritional diet owing to acute financial crisis.
Pradip, who is undergoing Anti-Retroviral Therapy (Art), is competing at the eighth Senior Mr Asia championship in Ludhiana in the first week of November. The next month, he will take part in the 4th Mr World Championship in Bangkok.
A resident of Khamnam Leirak in Imphal West, Pradip (43) disclosed his health status to the media a few days after bagging the 60-kg category senior 'Mr Manipur' title in a state-level competition held here in December, 2007. Pradip, a brand ambassador of Manipur Aids Control Society (Macs), later bagged silver and bronze medals in different national competitions and stood eighth in the 'Mr World' competition.
Manipur is one of the six high HIV/AIDS prevalence states of the country. According to Macs, the state has 38,016 people infected with HIV, including 10,109 women and 2,578 children. Pradip, who has emerged as an icon of inspiration to the world, spends around Rs 40,000 in procuring foreign nutritional diet every month.
"Macs, which used to pay Rs 8,000 a month for my nutritional support, has stopped extending the amount since June this year," Pradip informed TOI on Monday.
"The state government which had promised to appoint me as a regular employee in the youth affairs and sports department in 2009 also failed to do anything about it. This was another major setback," said Pradip. A group of HIV positive widows of the state launched a charity campaign to collect money for him after they came to know about his financial condition. They are providing me monetary help and I am very thankful to them, he said.
Recently, a social organization donated Rs 1.5 lakh to the bodybuilder for his cause, he said.
"Since I do not have money, I am not in a position to procure the standard nutritional diet. But I am ready to fight all odds and I will manage to make it through. I will continue with my rigorous practice and give my best at both the competitions," he added.
Pradip, who is undergoing Anti-Retroviral Therapy (Art), is competing at the eighth Senior Mr Asia championship in Ludhiana in the first week of November. The next month, he will take part in the 4th Mr World Championship in Bangkok.
A resident of Khamnam Leirak in Imphal West, Pradip (43) disclosed his health status to the media a few days after bagging the 60-kg category senior 'Mr Manipur' title in a state-level competition held here in December, 2007. Pradip, a brand ambassador of Manipur Aids Control Society (Macs), later bagged silver and bronze medals in different national competitions and stood eighth in the 'Mr World' competition.
Manipur is one of the six high HIV/AIDS prevalence states of the country. According to Macs, the state has 38,016 people infected with HIV, including 10,109 women and 2,578 children. Pradip, who has emerged as an icon of inspiration to the world, spends around Rs 40,000 in procuring foreign nutritional diet every month.
"Macs, which used to pay Rs 8,000 a month for my nutritional support, has stopped extending the amount since June this year," Pradip informed TOI on Monday.
"The state government which had promised to appoint me as a regular employee in the youth affairs and sports department in 2009 also failed to do anything about it. This was another major setback," said Pradip. A group of HIV positive widows of the state launched a charity campaign to collect money for him after they came to know about his financial condition. They are providing me monetary help and I am very thankful to them, he said.
Recently, a social organization donated Rs 1.5 lakh to the bodybuilder for his cause, he said.
"Since I do not have money, I am not in a position to procure the standard nutritional diet. But I am ready to fight all odds and I will manage to make it through. I will continue with my rigorous practice and give my best at both the competitions," he added.
Cop, actor sent to jail for raping Imphal schoolgirl
IMPHAL: A local court on Tuesday remanded a police commando driver for allegedly raping a schoolgirl and his friend, a film actor-cum-singer for assisting in the crime, to judicial custody here.
While the prime accused, police driver Yumnam William, has been suspended by the police department, Film Forum Manipur (FFM) has banned actor Thongam Tarun, who assisted in the crime, from working in Manipuri films.
A resident of Khagempalli Panthak in Imphal West, William (28), had befriended the victim, a Class XII student of TG Higher Secondary School.
On the pretext of taking her to a birthday party, William picked up the girl, who was returning home from school on October 20, in a car. The accused then picked up Tarun (27) from his Thangmeiband Sinam Leikai residence here and the three of them went to a hotel at airport road.
After drugging her with soft drinks, she was allegedly raped in a hotel room by William. Meanwhile, Tarun made sure nobody saw the crime taking place, sources said.
However, following public uproar, they surrendered to the police on the next day.
On Sunday night, a duty magistrate (Imphal West) remanded both the accused to judicial custody for 13 days. They were charged under Sections 366/376/34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Meanwhile the FFM, an apex body of all film-related units in the state, has decided that the forum will not approve any film activities taken up by co-accused Tarun.
"In an FFM meeting convened a few days back, we took the decision against Tarun, who has tarnished the film fraternity of the state. We have also banned his recent music video albums and a film in which he worked," FFM chairman L Surjakanta Shrama told this reporter on Tuesday.
On October 25, home minister Gaikhangam said that punitive action would be taken against the two accused. On the same day, the irate school students protested against the alleged rape of their classmate.
A team of Manipur State Commission for Women, led by its chairperson L Ibetombi Devi, visited the victim's house and consoled the girl and her family and assured that the commission would extend all the support to them.
'PureFit Kothanur provides dance and fitness with personal traning. This is a women led fitness and dance center providing Zumba, Aerobics, Bolly Aerobics, Power Yoga in Bnagalore. We are devoted to the job of ensuring that every member who joins the dance or fitness has the best dance experience possible.'
While the prime accused, police driver Yumnam William, has been suspended by the police department, Film Forum Manipur (FFM) has banned actor Thongam Tarun, who assisted in the crime, from working in Manipuri films.
A resident of Khagempalli Panthak in Imphal West, William (28), had befriended the victim, a Class XII student of TG Higher Secondary School.
On the pretext of taking her to a birthday party, William picked up the girl, who was returning home from school on October 20, in a car. The accused then picked up Tarun (27) from his Thangmeiband Sinam Leikai residence here and the three of them went to a hotel at airport road.
After drugging her with soft drinks, she was allegedly raped in a hotel room by William. Meanwhile, Tarun made sure nobody saw the crime taking place, sources said.
However, following public uproar, they surrendered to the police on the next day.
On Sunday night, a duty magistrate (Imphal West) remanded both the accused to judicial custody for 13 days. They were charged under Sections 366/376/34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Meanwhile the FFM, an apex body of all film-related units in the state, has decided that the forum will not approve any film activities taken up by co-accused Tarun.
"In an FFM meeting convened a few days back, we took the decision against Tarun, who has tarnished the film fraternity of the state. We have also banned his recent music video albums and a film in which he worked," FFM chairman L Surjakanta Shrama told this reporter on Tuesday.
On October 25, home minister Gaikhangam said that punitive action would be taken against the two accused. On the same day, the irate school students protested against the alleged rape of their classmate.
A team of Manipur State Commission for Women, led by its chairperson L Ibetombi Devi, visited the victim's house and consoled the girl and her family and assured that the commission would extend all the support to them.
'PureFit Kothanur provides dance and fitness with personal traning. This is a women led fitness and dance center providing Zumba, Aerobics, Bolly Aerobics, Power Yoga in Bnagalore. We are devoted to the job of ensuring that every member who joins the dance or fitness has the best dance experience possible.'
People For Animal snaps villagers' ties with 'snake god'
IMPHAL: For villagers of Kumbi in Manipur's Bishnupur district, anything even remotely related to religion is sacred. The local deity, in any form, holds sway over their lives and is highly revered.
On Tuesday, when People For Animal (PFA) members went to rescue a python captured and worshipped by villagers as a 'reincarnation' of the local deity at the village, they had a hard time convincing them that the 8-ft-long reptile needs to released in the wild for its safety.
The reptile, which is listed under Schedule 1 (most endangered animals in the country) of the Protection of Wildlife Act, 1972, was captured from a paddy field at Kumbi Setupur by the villagers on Saturday. It was kept at the house of the owner of the field and hundreds offered money, fruits and flowers to the snake considering it to be a local deity.
"On Tuesday, the gathering grew bigger after local priests performed rituals. After taking the advice of forest officials, we, along with a strong police team, including commandos, went there today. The villagers and the priests strongly objected to handing over the python initially," said Lourembam Biswajit, the managing trustee of PFA, Thoubal.
After they were given a brief idea about the provisions of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, including the related penalties, the villagers finally released the python after performing some rituals. "While some chanted rituals praising the deity, others, in groups, wept near the python. We took the reptile to Manipur veterinary hospital in Imphal to check its health," said Bishwajit.
On being informed about the incident, PFA chairman Maneka Gandhi asked the PFA's Thoubal unit to rescue the python and release it in a safe place. "We will observe the python at our enclosure in Thoubal for a couple of days and release it the jungle after consulting with forest officials," he added.
In April, 2010, villagers of Lamlai in Imphal East caught a rare cobra from a house and handed it to Manipur zoo authorities.
On Tuesday, when People For Animal (PFA) members went to rescue a python captured and worshipped by villagers as a 'reincarnation' of the local deity at the village, they had a hard time convincing them that the 8-ft-long reptile needs to released in the wild for its safety.
The reptile, which is listed under Schedule 1 (most endangered animals in the country) of the Protection of Wildlife Act, 1972, was captured from a paddy field at Kumbi Setupur by the villagers on Saturday. It was kept at the house of the owner of the field and hundreds offered money, fruits and flowers to the snake considering it to be a local deity.
"On Tuesday, the gathering grew bigger after local priests performed rituals. After taking the advice of forest officials, we, along with a strong police team, including commandos, went there today. The villagers and the priests strongly objected to handing over the python initially," said Lourembam Biswajit, the managing trustee of PFA, Thoubal.
After they were given a brief idea about the provisions of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, including the related penalties, the villagers finally released the python after performing some rituals. "While some chanted rituals praising the deity, others, in groups, wept near the python. We took the reptile to Manipur veterinary hospital in Imphal to check its health," said Bishwajit.
On being informed about the incident, PFA chairman Maneka Gandhi asked the PFA's Thoubal unit to rescue the python and release it in a safe place. "We will observe the python at our enclosure in Thoubal for a couple of days and release it the jungle after consulting with forest officials," he added.
In April, 2010, villagers of Lamlai in Imphal East caught a rare cobra from a house and handed it to Manipur zoo authorities.
Irom Sharmila awarded for her grit
KOLKATA: The Centre may have remained indifferent to the demands of Irom Sharmila, but the Iron Lady's voice and cause seems to have reached the Kerala coast.
On Saturday, Kovilam Trust bestowed the Kovilam Smaraka Activist Indian National Award to Sharmila who has been fasting for nearly 12 years now in demand for repeal of the Arms Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA). Since Sharmila could not be in the city due to legal problems, the award was received by her elder brother Irom Singhajit on her behalf.
But Singhajit later returned the award to the trust saying that it was to honour his sister's resolution, who has decided not to accept any award or recognition from any individual or organisation till her demands are met.
"It is a proud moment to receive such an award. But I would request the Kovilam Trust to keep the award in its safe custody and hand it over to Sharmila when she is comes out free from the judicial custody," said Singhajit.
He added that Sharmila had expressed this wish during a meeting when she was produced in the court on October 9. The Iron Lady has been on fast since November 2000 after some civilians were shot dead allegedly by Assam Rifle personnel in Malom village of Manipur. Her non-violent protest against AFSPA has made her an iconic figure.
"Seldom do we come across an activist with such determination and courage. Sharmila is an emblem of courage. If Tagore was alive, he would have been so proud of Sharmila. So would have been the departed great men who had fought for the country and for truth," said Mahasweta Devi.
The activist writer who handed over the award was not allowed to meet Sharmila when she had gone calling on the firebrand activist in Imphal in 2009. Mahasweta revealed that she would be writing on Sharmila and her crusade.
According to Singhajit, Sharmila meditates and does yoga for almost four hours everyday in the hospital. That perhaps has prevented her from diverting her mind to other things around her, he said. At present, Sharmila is confined in a room in Imphal's JN Hospital where she is forcibly nasal fed. She is produced in the court every 15 days for extension of the judicial custody.
"AFSPA was initially imposed in some disturbed areas of Nagaland about 55 years ago. It was supposed to be for a limited period and for some particular areas. Instead, it has now been imposed in other parts of the country too. The UN has already said that this draconian law cannot exist in a democracy. Sharmila has been fighting for scrapping of the law for almost 12 years," said human rights activist Babloo Loitongbam.
Even family members do no have access to Sharmila. They have to obtain permission from the state home department at least a month in advance to meet her in the hospital. When asked, documentary filmmaker Josy Joseph expressed dissatisfaction at the kind of treatment doled out to northeast India by the mainstream media.
"All major newspaper houses have a Guwahati edition. Though all news reports reach their respective head quarters, it bounces back to the Guwahati edition. Sharmila has been fighting for years now, but there isn't any pressure as people in mainland India hardly get to know the true picture in northeast India," said Joseph.
On Saturday, Kovilam Trust bestowed the Kovilam Smaraka Activist Indian National Award to Sharmila who has been fasting for nearly 12 years now in demand for repeal of the Arms Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA). Since Sharmila could not be in the city due to legal problems, the award was received by her elder brother Irom Singhajit on her behalf.
But Singhajit later returned the award to the trust saying that it was to honour his sister's resolution, who has decided not to accept any award or recognition from any individual or organisation till her demands are met.
"It is a proud moment to receive such an award. But I would request the Kovilam Trust to keep the award in its safe custody and hand it over to Sharmila when she is comes out free from the judicial custody," said Singhajit.
He added that Sharmila had expressed this wish during a meeting when she was produced in the court on October 9. The Iron Lady has been on fast since November 2000 after some civilians were shot dead allegedly by Assam Rifle personnel in Malom village of Manipur. Her non-violent protest against AFSPA has made her an iconic figure.
"Seldom do we come across an activist with such determination and courage. Sharmila is an emblem of courage. If Tagore was alive, he would have been so proud of Sharmila. So would have been the departed great men who had fought for the country and for truth," said Mahasweta Devi.
The activist writer who handed over the award was not allowed to meet Sharmila when she had gone calling on the firebrand activist in Imphal in 2009. Mahasweta revealed that she would be writing on Sharmila and her crusade.
According to Singhajit, Sharmila meditates and does yoga for almost four hours everyday in the hospital. That perhaps has prevented her from diverting her mind to other things around her, he said. At present, Sharmila is confined in a room in Imphal's JN Hospital where she is forcibly nasal fed. She is produced in the court every 15 days for extension of the judicial custody.
"AFSPA was initially imposed in some disturbed areas of Nagaland about 55 years ago. It was supposed to be for a limited period and for some particular areas. Instead, it has now been imposed in other parts of the country too. The UN has already said that this draconian law cannot exist in a democracy. Sharmila has been fighting for scrapping of the law for almost 12 years," said human rights activist Babloo Loitongbam.
Even family members do no have access to Sharmila. They have to obtain permission from the state home department at least a month in advance to meet her in the hospital. When asked, documentary filmmaker Josy Joseph expressed dissatisfaction at the kind of treatment doled out to northeast India by the mainstream media.
"All major newspaper houses have a Guwahati edition. Though all news reports reach their respective head quarters, it bounces back to the Guwahati edition. Sharmila has been fighting for years now, but there isn't any pressure as people in mainland India hardly get to know the true picture in northeast India," said Joseph.
Dengue case confirmed in Manipur, alert sounded
IMPHAL: Health officials of Churachandpur district have sounded a health alert to combat the spread of dengue as a case has been confirmed in the the Kuki-Chin-Mizo-dominated district.
Besides spreading awareness on the epidemic, the district's health officials appealed to the people to get their blood tested immediately in case of any suspected symptoms.
Having heard the spread of dengue at Chengkhonpang village in the district headquarters a few days back, the district malaria officials went to the village on October 18 and collected blood samples of a 17-year-old girl and woman suspected to be infected of the epidemic, sources said.
The two samples were tested positive at the district's rapid diagnostic testing centre and for further confirmation, the same were sent to the state malaria department and later to the microbiology department of the centre-run Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) here, the sources added.
However, the two are now out of danger.
Besides spreading awareness on the epidemic, the district's health officials appealed to the people to get their blood tested immediately in case of any suspected symptoms.
Having heard the spread of dengue at Chengkhonpang village in the district headquarters a few days back, the district malaria officials went to the village on October 18 and collected blood samples of a 17-year-old girl and woman suspected to be infected of the epidemic, sources said.
The two samples were tested positive at the district's rapid diagnostic testing centre and for further confirmation, the same were sent to the state malaria department and later to the microbiology department of the centre-run Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) here, the sources added.
However, the two are now out of danger.
Manipur to host 6th Manipur Polo International Tournament
GUWAHATI: The far-flung North Eastern state of Manipur may not be the most popular tourist destination but it does offer some unique experiences against a scenic backdrop. The government of Manipur is all set to organize the sixth Manipur Polo International tournament between 24 and 29 November. The tournament will coincide with the Manipur Sangai Festival 2012 organized by the ministry of Tourism.
The theme of this year's tournament is 'Save the Manipuri Pony, the Original Polo Pony' from extinction and promotion of Polo Tourism in the state. The tournament will be conducted under Indian Polo Association Rules and mounted on Manipuri Pony.
Teams from Hurlingham England, Germany, France and Thailand are participating in the tournament besides a team representing the Indian Polo Association and a team from Manipur. The foreign teams have been coordinated by Hurlingham Polo Association, the controlling body of International Polo, Royal Embassy of Thailand in India and Consul General of German Embassy in Kolkata.
The tournament will be held at the Mapal Kangjeibung (Polo ground) in Imphal. The gallery, lawn and pavilions are being renovated currently.
According to the organizers and many historians, polo may have been popularized by the British, it originated in Manipur. The game was known as 'Sangol Kangjei' in Manipuri. It is said that the first polo club in India was established in Silchar, Assam, in 1834.
The theme of this year's tournament is 'Save the Manipuri Pony, the Original Polo Pony' from extinction and promotion of Polo Tourism in the state. The tournament will be conducted under Indian Polo Association Rules and mounted on Manipuri Pony.
Teams from Hurlingham England, Germany, France and Thailand are participating in the tournament besides a team representing the Indian Polo Association and a team from Manipur. The foreign teams have been coordinated by Hurlingham Polo Association, the controlling body of International Polo, Royal Embassy of Thailand in India and Consul General of German Embassy in Kolkata.
The tournament will be held at the Mapal Kangjeibung (Polo ground) in Imphal. The gallery, lawn and pavilions are being renovated currently.
According to the organizers and many historians, polo may have been popularized by the British, it originated in Manipur. The game was known as 'Sangol Kangjei' in Manipuri. It is said that the first polo club in India was established in Silchar, Assam, in 1834.
Police commando booked for raping teenager in Manipur
A police personnel, who allegedly raped a 16-year-old minor girl after drugging her at a fast food joint, was booked on rape charge, an official source said Monday.
The incident took place on Saturday at a fast food joint at Ghari under Lamphel police station of Imphal West district.
The accused Yumnam William (30), a resident of Khagempali Panthak in Imphal East district is a driver of the police commandos attached with Imphal East district police and was arrested by Porompat police of the same district and handed over to the Lamphel police station of Imphal West district where a case against him was registered.
In the case, one Thongam Tarun (27), a resident of Thangmeiband was mentioned as co-accused and has been arrested by the police, the source added.
Police said, the accused and his friend on October 20 last took the teenage girl to a fast food joint at Ghari with them on the pretext of dating. The girl was recently introduced to the accused.
At the joint, William allegedly mixed some sedative drug in a cold drink and offered it to the girl. Taking advantage of the unconsciousness of the girl, William raped her repeatedly.
A medical test has already been conducted Monday at RIMS forensic department, the police source said. The accused and co-accused would be produced in a local court Tuesday.
ZUF cadre held for rape
Meanwhile, a ZUF cadre who has been accused of raping four minor girls in Khoupum Valley of Tamenglong district on October 5 last along with another cadre of the outfit has been arrested by a combined team of troops of Red Shield Division, Imphal West and Bishnupur district commandos.
The arrested cadre identified as ‘private’ Latjanthai Malangmai of Noney has been handed over to Bishnupur police along with another arrested L/CPL Gigonpou of Ramgaijang, North Cachar Hills, Assam, a statement of the PIB (Defense Wing) said.
The statement said, Latjanthai was intercepted by troops of Red Shield Division at Pinjang on Oct 6 while escaping from Khoupum Valley.
However, he managed to escape the fire fight after injuring two Army Jawans. Nonetheless, he was later arrested in manhunt by the combined troop.
The incident took place on Saturday at a fast food joint at Ghari under Lamphel police station of Imphal West district.
The accused Yumnam William (30), a resident of Khagempali Panthak in Imphal East district is a driver of the police commandos attached with Imphal East district police and was arrested by Porompat police of the same district and handed over to the Lamphel police station of Imphal West district where a case against him was registered.
In the case, one Thongam Tarun (27), a resident of Thangmeiband was mentioned as co-accused and has been arrested by the police, the source added.
Police said, the accused and his friend on October 20 last took the teenage girl to a fast food joint at Ghari with them on the pretext of dating. The girl was recently introduced to the accused.
At the joint, William allegedly mixed some sedative drug in a cold drink and offered it to the girl. Taking advantage of the unconsciousness of the girl, William raped her repeatedly.
A medical test has already been conducted Monday at RIMS forensic department, the police source said. The accused and co-accused would be produced in a local court Tuesday.
ZUF cadre held for rape
Meanwhile, a ZUF cadre who has been accused of raping four minor girls in Khoupum Valley of Tamenglong district on October 5 last along with another cadre of the outfit has been arrested by a combined team of troops of Red Shield Division, Imphal West and Bishnupur district commandos.
The arrested cadre identified as ‘private’ Latjanthai Malangmai of Noney has been handed over to Bishnupur police along with another arrested L/CPL Gigonpou of Ramgaijang, North Cachar Hills, Assam, a statement of the PIB (Defense Wing) said.
The statement said, Latjanthai was intercepted by troops of Red Shield Division at Pinjang on Oct 6 while escaping from Khoupum Valley.
However, he managed to escape the fire fight after injuring two Army Jawans. Nonetheless, he was later arrested in manhunt by the combined troop.
Manipur, Goa best places to be born in India
NEW DELHI: Olympic medalist Mary Kom would be happy to hear this.
Manipur has burst into the scene to become the best place to be born in India along with Goa.
For every 1,000 live births, 11 die in Manipur as compared to 59 in Madhya Pradesh, which ranks as the worst place in the country to be born. The infant mortality rate (IMR) in Manipur has dipped to 11 in 2011 as against 14 in 2010.
Goa, like last year, is still the best place to be born in India. However in a strange twist of events, the state has actually recorded an increase in IMR among smaller states - from 10 infant deaths per 1,000 live births to 11 in 2011.
West Bengal is the only major state to record a rise in IMR.
The latest Sample Registration Survey (SRS) data sent to the Union health ministry by the Registrar General of India on Friday shows that while the IMR for Bengal was 31 in 2010, it has increased to 32 in 2011 - one more child dying per 1,000 live births.
Overall in India, IMR has dropped by three points from 47 to 44 infants deaths per 1,000 live births during 2011.
The IMR for rural areas has dropped by three points from 51 to 48 infant deaths, while the urban rate stands at 29 in 2011 from the previous 31 in 2010.
Around 19 more children are dying in rural India per 1,000 live births as compared to urban India. While IMR in urban India stood at 29 in 2011, it was 48 in rural India.
In Maharashtra, 25 children died per 1,000 live births, whereas Delhi's IMR stood at 28. Tamil Nadu had an IMR of 22 (24 in 2010).
According to SRS 2011, among major states, Maharashtra has seen the largest percentage decline in IMR - 14.7% over 2010, followed by Punjab (11.5%), Karnataka and Kerala (10.3%), Tamil Nadu (9.3%) and Bihar (8.1%).
National Rural Health Mission chief Anuradha Gupta told TOI that compared to 2010, India in 2011 has seen a 6.3% reduction in annual infant mortality rate compared to 1.7% in 2005.
This, Gupta says, is largely due to the tremendous increase in institutional deliveries, thanks to the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), which was launched in April, 2005, which promoted institutional delivery among would-be mothers by providing cash assistance.
"One big reason for the dip in IMR is the 24x7 public health facilities. Also states have given tremendous attention to neonatal health. There are at present 384 sick and new born child units (SNCUs) that handle critical neonatal cases," Gupta said.
Manipur has burst into the scene to become the best place to be born in India along with Goa.
For every 1,000 live births, 11 die in Manipur as compared to 59 in Madhya Pradesh, which ranks as the worst place in the country to be born. The infant mortality rate (IMR) in Manipur has dipped to 11 in 2011 as against 14 in 2010.
Goa, like last year, is still the best place to be born in India. However in a strange twist of events, the state has actually recorded an increase in IMR among smaller states - from 10 infant deaths per 1,000 live births to 11 in 2011.
West Bengal is the only major state to record a rise in IMR.
The latest Sample Registration Survey (SRS) data sent to the Union health ministry by the Registrar General of India on Friday shows that while the IMR for Bengal was 31 in 2010, it has increased to 32 in 2011 - one more child dying per 1,000 live births.
Overall in India, IMR has dropped by three points from 47 to 44 infants deaths per 1,000 live births during 2011.
The IMR for rural areas has dropped by three points from 51 to 48 infant deaths, while the urban rate stands at 29 in 2011 from the previous 31 in 2010.
Around 19 more children are dying in rural India per 1,000 live births as compared to urban India. While IMR in urban India stood at 29 in 2011, it was 48 in rural India.
In Maharashtra, 25 children died per 1,000 live births, whereas Delhi's IMR stood at 28. Tamil Nadu had an IMR of 22 (24 in 2010).
According to SRS 2011, among major states, Maharashtra has seen the largest percentage decline in IMR - 14.7% over 2010, followed by Punjab (11.5%), Karnataka and Kerala (10.3%), Tamil Nadu (9.3%) and Bihar (8.1%).
National Rural Health Mission chief Anuradha Gupta told TOI that compared to 2010, India in 2011 has seen a 6.3% reduction in annual infant mortality rate compared to 1.7% in 2005.
This, Gupta says, is largely due to the tremendous increase in institutional deliveries, thanks to the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), which was launched in April, 2005, which promoted institutional delivery among would-be mothers by providing cash assistance.
"One big reason for the dip in IMR is the 24x7 public health facilities. Also states have given tremendous attention to neonatal health. There are at present 384 sick and new born child units (SNCUs) that handle critical neonatal cases," Gupta said.
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