Author: Imphal Free Press

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 1

Secretary of Women Welfare Association, Hiyanglam Sorokhaibam Bijenti claimed one Elangbam Sulendro founder member and administrator of Elangbam Sulochana Academy, Hiyanglam must be punished for alleged sexual assault against two minor girls.

 Bijenti was addressing the media during a press meet held at Indigenous People’s Association of Kangleipak (IPAK) Keishampat office this evening.

Bijenti recalled on September 20, Elangbam Sulendro (45) of Hiyanglam Lai Panganba, Wabgai Kakching district punished the two minors for not performing well in the class. The two minors who are sisters of same parents were detained at the time of school break and were instructed to stay at a class room of KG-II.

“Sulendro instructed the two minors to lie on the desk without facing each other. And he tried to touch the private parts of the minors”, she alleged.

Bijenti continued that the matter came to light when the two minors refused to attend parents meet of the school on September 24. “The elder sister revealed to her mother about the incident that their teacher Sulendro tried to touch her private part and she feel hesitant to attend the school”, she said.

Consequently when the parents tried to file a complaint against the teacher at Hiyanglam police station on September 29 late night, officer of the station refused to take the complaint due to late office hour and told them to come the following day to file the complaint.

However when the parents went to file the case on the following day the police officer of Hiyanglam police station allegedly told them to shorten the case through negotiations between the two parties, said Bijenti.

Meantime in the late evening the grandmother of the minor called Sulendro on the matter and asked him to apologise to the family but on the following day, instead he charged the former of defaming him with sexual assault charges, she added. 

As the police allegedly shrugged off from its responsibilities, the parents of the two minors discussed the matter with local club, Youth Pioneer Club, Hiyanglam. Accordingly the parents called Sulendro and asked him to apologise but on the contrary the latter threatened the former not to inform about the matter to anyone, Bijenti continued.

Bijenti demanded that Sulendro must leave his profession under moral ground and to surrender within three days. If Sulendro fails to surrender himself within the deadline intense action will be taken by joining hands with civil voluntary organisation of the state, she warned.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 1

Defence secretary, Government of India, Ashok Kumar Gupta arrived today in the state on official visit.

Gupta who arrived this afternoon at the Imphal international airport said that he is on a personal visit and declined to give further comments.

Although the visiting defence secretary declined to revealed the purpose of his visit, sources said that it could be related with the ongoing Rongiya refugee crisis in the neighbouring state of Myanmar.

He will be staying at the hotel Imphal today at leave for an official visit to Moreh border town tomorrow.

After returning from Moreh he will leave Imphal for Nagaland tomorrow.

From Our Correspondent

CCPUR | Oct 1

The SP of Churachandpur, Rakesh Balwal briefed about the recent rescue of eight girls including four minors in a press conference today held at his office chamber, in presence of additional SP (l/O), SDPO and town commander of 25 AR, Thanlon.

Elaborating on the arrest of one, T. Vumthianlal alias Romeo (39) son of Tunzakap of Dorcas Veng, New Lamka, he said the arrest was made by a combine team of Assam Rifles led by Major Narinder Sharma and SDPO of Churachandpur, Jonny Sharma, which was made around 8:30 pm of last night.

Rakesh Balwal stated that police received reliable information on September 30 around 7 pm about Romeo hiding at Vengnuam area, New Lamka. The combine Churachandpur police comprising of three teams of SDPO Churachandpur, SDPO Thanlon, sub-inspector T. Seikhotinlal Haokip and a team of 25 AR apprehended Romeo from the house of Vumkhansuan from Vengnom South, New Lamka.

Meanwhile, another person named Lunkholal Haokip (50), son of (Late) Thangpu of Tuibong, Bazaar Veng was also arrested at 9:20 pm from his residence at Tuibong, Bazaar Veng in a follow up action by the joint team.

Moreover, T. Chingzaniang (36), wife of T. Paubiaklun of Salem Veng, Central Lamka Churachandpur, who has been helping Romeo in arranging all logistic requyirements for the last few weeks was also arrested today at 2:30 pm.

It may be mentioned that Romeo has been absconded after he was alleged of killing of Thangkhanlun Taitom on July 27. The incident occurred in one electrical goods store located at Teddim Road where he was captured by CCTV that was installed at the shop. He was a town commander of ZRO/ZRA.

From Our Correspondent

CCPUR | Sept 30

 Lamyanba Hijam Irawat Ningshing Numit was observed today at the office of Churachandpur United Club Organisations (CUCO) Tuibong, B. Vengnom organised by CUCO and Ladies United  Development Organization (LUDO).

The programme was attended by the president of the COCU, S. Kulla Mangan as functional president, the president of LUDO, Y. Anandini Devi, secretary, LUDO, Nengjalam, organisation secretary, CUCO, Ngamzathang Khongsai and secretary, CUCO, Dousei Vaiphei attended as guests of honours.

A two minute silence in remembrance of the leader was held at the gathering. During the observation, the members present held a mass cleanliness drive at the roadside of KBC Church at village approach road of B. Vengnom.

President of COCU talked about the cosmopolitan ideology of the late leader, his sympathy for the down trodden and his fight for the unity of all community and his struggles, arrest and the imprisonment for the 7 time for the cause he believed.

President of LUDO also echoed the speech of Kulla Mangan and thanked her fellow ladies from LUDO and others from CUCO who gathered today and took part in the cleanliness drive.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 30

Altogether eight girls including some minors from Churachandpur district who were trafficked to Yangon have been rescued and brought back to the state today.

The girls were rescued from Yangon and brought back to Kolkata yesterday.

The rescued girls were brought to Imphal by officials of social welfare department, child line Bishnupur and district administration (DC) Churachandpur this afternoon around 2 pm.

From the airport the girls were taken to Churachandpur by a team of the DC and superintendent of police of the concerned district after they were formally handed over by the officials of the social welfare department at the airport.

Speaking to IFP, the Churachandpur DC, disclosed that the girls were rescued by Impulse NGO with the help of Myanmar police during a raid from a hostel in Yangon a week back.

He said the girls will be handed over to their families or given rehabilitation after necessary formalities are carried out.

According to state pogramme officer (SPO)-integrated child protection scheme (ICPS), Sandhya, one of the officials who escorted back the rescued girls from Kolkata, said the girls were brought back to Kolkata yesterday by a team of Impulse NGO with the help of Myanmar embassy and kept at Manipur Bhawan Kolkata.

Nothing could be ascertained about the movements of the girls at the moment as they apparently are confused, said the social welfare officer adding that proper counseling would be given.

Nevertheless, citing preliminary reports she revealed that most of the girls were to be taken to Singapore to be engaged as house maids.

She lauded the Impulse NGO and Myanmar government in making the rescue operation and return journey of the girls successful. And, also the home department Manipur and Churachandpur DC for their strong support.

It is learnt that the Chuarachandpur district administration sent the assistant commissioner (AC) to assist in the operation to bring back the girls in the state.

Shandya further informed that all necessary rehabilitation or other requirements will be initiated by the child welfare committee (ICPS) Churachandpur.

Child line Bishnupur, director L. Pishak, citing the increasing rate of trafficking cases in the entire NE region particularly Manipur drew the attention of the government to beef up security after and take tough stand on human trafficking.

He said many of the trafficking cases remained unreported and that there are children out there waiting to be rescued.

The child line director further observed that inability of the government concerned to give befitting punishment to human traffickers is also another factor resulting in failure to curb the growing human trafficking cases.

Our Bureau

IMPHAL | Sept 30

Expressing concern over the increasing incidents of sexual harassment and trafficking of women, governor Najma Heptulla said empowering women with a view to emergence of a new society where there is gender equity, peace and justice would help in resolving the problems. 

Heptulla was speaking as chief guest in the 2nd Manipur Catholic Women Convention, organised by Manipur Catholic Women Organisation (MCWO), which begin today at Christ Jyoti School, Mantripukhri, Imphal under the theme “Women in the family, church and society.”  The convention will conclude on October 3.

Continuing her speech, Heptulla said there is no religion higher than truth and we should work towards universal brotherhood. The theme, “Women in family, church & society”, under which the convention is being held, is remarkable, she said, and congratulated the Manipur Catholic Women Organisation for organizing such an event.

Wishing a grand success of the event, Heptulla expressed her desire to have a copy of resolutions passed during the convention and also said that she would extend all possible help.

Speaking on the inaugural function, Archbishop of Imphal, Rev. Dominic Lumon D.D. said, the presence of the governor at the function shows the concrete love and appreciation for MCWO and the women of Manipur. It will surely boost their thoughts, he added.

He said, women are honoured and have dignity in Manipur. Education is the key to justice and development. It helps us related to one another he added.

Reverend wished the celebration honours womanhood. Ts. Shelvi Monsang, President, MCWO was also present at the function.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 30

Parliamentary secretary home, L. Sushindro said if all the people of the state follow the ideology of Hijam Irawat there will be a unity among all the people of the state regardless of their community or religion. 

He was addressing as chief guest during the observance of “121st Birth Anniversary of Lamyanba Irawat” today at Keishampat Lairembi community hall, Imphal organised by Socialist Students Union of Manipur, Manipur Proletariat Peoples’ Democratic Union and Struggle Committee Manipur.

As a part of the function awards were given to five journalists and one media house of the state for their dedication to their work.

The people’s choice editor award was given to Hueiyen Lanpao editor, Hemantakumar Ningomba, people’s choice newspaper award to Sanaleibak, investigative journalist award to Imphal Free Press, senior reporter, Paojel Chaoba, reporter award to ISTV video journalist U. Indraraj, people’s choice special category award to Hueiyen Lanpao, reporter, Gyanand Naorem and sports journalist award to Poknapham, reporter H. Sadananda.

Sushindro said that next year the birth anniversary of Hijam Irawat will be conducted at the state level.

“The present government is following his ideology of serving the people with dedication, works for the welfare of the public and bringing emotional integrity among the people of hills and valley,” he added.

Mentioning that the Night Plaza, which is to be open very shortly will be a great venue for recreation and relaxation Sushindro said that it will be very wrong to give negative comment about Night Plaza.

There cannot be total ban on liquor in the state as some tribes and caste have to brew it for their traditional practice but if misused he or she will be punished according to law, added the parliamentary secretary.

He appealed to all the civil bodies and people of the state to be united to bring a “better Manipur” and he said that the government needs supports from the public in bringing a great development in the state.  

The function was attended by MPPDU president, N. Meghachandra as president, MYCY president, Th. Kunjamani, Keishampat Keisham Leikai Meira Paibe president, Keisham Paramoi and Imphal Public School, founder principal, A. Kenedy as guests of honour.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 30

Secretary of Manipur State Council, CPI, N. Nara said Irawat was not only a patriot for the state but also an internationalist. He was speaking at the 121th birth anniversary celebration of the leader today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound.

Nara said Irawat possessed a rare quality of leadership with intelligence and full of sacrifice. The day is celebrated in many parts including Assam, Tripura and Bangladesh. In the next few years it will also be celebrated at Mandalay as the place has also connections with the life of Irawat.

He said Irawat was a man, who thinks for the welfare of the society.

Nara said, at the time when Manipur was not annexed many wanted to form Purvanchal Pradesh by combining Assam, Nagaland, Manipur and other states of North-east by making Silchar as capital.

But Manipur being an independent kingdom, Irawat opposed the proposal. According to the condition of that government and to solve the problems, Irawat joined CPI, he added.

Irawat organised a public meeting at Manipur Dramatic Union, and to prevent the meeting police resorted to lathi charge, resulting in the death of some people.

From that moment Irawat worked for the welfare of Manipur from hiding, Nara said. Irawat sacrificed his life fighting against the formation of Purvanchal Pradesh and he succeeded.

Nara further said Irawat was an undisputed leader of the state and he wanted to bring equality among people of different class to bring development.

People had lost faith in the present political leaders due to party hopping. To bring good and welfare in the society the political leaders need to be stable, Nara asserted.

As a part of the programme Thiyam Meghachandra Journalist Award was given to editor, Impact TV, Yumnam Rupachandra, Thokchom Achouba Integrity Award to social activist, Amu Kamei, Hijam Achou Shinmee Award to Soibam Ningthem, Nongthombam Iboton Teacher Award to Geeta Phanjoubam, Laishram Ramsing Trade Union Award to Sairem Manglem, Kshetrimayum Ibobi Blood Donor Award to R.K. Dayananda and Khangjrakpam Mani Driver Award to Thoudam Nonganjao Meetei.

The awards include a citation, shawl and cash.

Social activist, Amu Kamei said it is glad to see people from different places of the state to join the function. But he expressed unahppiness at the absence of contingents from the hills. “If there is no unity among the people, development of Manipur is impossible,” he said.

India is a democratic country but political parties sometimes forget the meaning of democracy during election, Amu said, in a democractic system people are the king but on the contrary MLAs and ministers are the king in the state. After being elected the leaders denied the rights of the people and indulged in corruption, he alleged.

Veteran CPI leader, M. Ibohal, chairman of Irawat Celebration Committee (ICC), Th. Tomba, chairman, control commission, MSC/CPI, B. Sharma, patron member, All Manipur Nupi Marup, Yambem Ibeni, veteran leader, All Manipur Nupi Marup, Th. Bhanumati and others attended the function as presidium members.

People paid floral tributes to the portrait of Irawat at the Leela Shanglen.

A state march past completion was held at Palace Compound. It was organised by All India Students’ Federation (AISF), Manipur State Council. Forty-two contingents participated in the competition.

IMPHAL | Sept 30

Students and working people from North East people residing in Delhi today celebrated the 121st birth anniversary of great revolutionary leader Hijam Irawat at North Campus, Delhi University today.

A release said that the programme organised by North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) saw huge participation of students from various colleges of Delhi University and added that the programme saw rendition of revolutionary songs remembering Hijam Irawat, discussion on his revolutionary ideas and other cultural activities.

It said that discussion was organised on the topic ‘Revolutionary legacy of Hijam Irawat and its relevance in our time’ which saw active participation of students, activists and independent researchers.

During the discussion Irawat’s intensive work towards building a truly democratic, progressive people’s movement in the region, and his revolutionary views on the question of creating a just society where different communities coexist with mutual respect for each other were emphasized, it added.

Further it said that the programme highlighted the necessity of Irawat’s ideas amid the present state of discord between different communities and added that Irawat stood for unity among different oppressed communities as a necessary step for people to liberate themselves.

At this crucial juncture, NEFIS took it as a duty to highlight Irawat’s vision to build democratic people’s movements that goes beyond the façade of representative democracy apparatus by exposing all forms of exploitation, oppression and subjugation faced by the toiling masses of the Northeast, it added.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 30 

Endorsing the pioneering work of Jananeta Hijam Irawat, commissioner (Works, IPR, CAF & PD) Kangjam Radhakumar said the literary works of the legendary leader both published and unpublished are worthy of academic research by students of literature.    

In his speech as chief guest, at the 121st birth anniversary of Hijam Irawat at Manipur Dramatic Hall, Yaiskul Police Lane here today, organised by Jananeta Hijam Irawat Birthday Celebration committee, Radhakumar, commissioner (Works, IPR, CAF & PD), government of Manipur said he fully endorses Irawat as a pioneer of modern Manipur literature as shown by his numerous works comprising of poetry, prose, drama, travelogue and translation.

In his welcome address, Sarat Salam, secretary of CPI(M) Manipur maintained that Jananeta Hijam Irawat Birthday Celebration Committee which was formed long years back has been pioneering in organising the birth anniversary of Irawat. The present day mass celebration throughout the state by other organisations has been a credit of the committee, he added.

Santa Kshetrimayum, convener, Jananeta Hijam Irawat Birthday Celebration Committee, in his key note address, said that amongst the many facets of Hijam Irawat, his love for theatre was well illustrated by his participation in theatres and also by being one of the founders of Manipur Dramatic Union.

The logo of the union as seen till today as two ploughs crossing each other was also designed by Irawat himself, Santa pointed out.

Member of the presidium, Khumanthem Debabrata Singh, managing director, Cane & Bamboo Allied Industries, Imphal delivered lectures on the economic reforms and political idealism of Hijam Irawat.

The celebration function was also attended by  Meitram Shamu, chairman, Jananeta Hijam Irawat Birthday Celebration Committee, Manihar Goswami, working president, JD(S) Manipur, Akham Khergopal Singh, president, Manipur Dramatic Union, Khomdram Gyaneswor, Secretary, AIFB, Manipur, Ningthoujam Ratan, Secretary, RSP, Manipur, Sapam Samungou Singh, CPI(ML) Liberation, Manipur, Kangjam Chaoba Singh, president, Manipur Library Association, Nongmaithem Thoiba, vice president, Manipur Loumee Marup and Maibam Randhoni, president, All Manipur Democratic Women Association as presidium members.

Earlier floral tributes were paid to the portrait of Jananeta Hijam Irawat as mark of respect to the leader.

The function was concluded with songs of Irawat sung by Takhellambam Dinamani and Thounaojam Maloti and a play entitled ‘Lamyanba Irawat’ played by artistes of Manipur Dramatic Union.

From A Correspondent

BISHNUPUR | Sept 30

As part of the weeklong 62nd wildlife celebration of the state forest department, a bird watching trip in and around Loktak lake for young students from Bishnupur besides Manipur University students was held at Thingungei Patton, about 40 km south of Imphal today.

Divisional forest officer (DFO) L. Debala of Bishnupur district flagged off the bird watching team in presence of state’s bird experts K. Jugeshore who is the principal of Kumbi college, Mangolnganbi college lecturer RK. Birjit who is also managing trustee of Center for Conservation of Nature and Cultivation of Science (CCNCS), Zoology lecturer Ch. Sony of Moirang college and CCNCS functionaries.

The bird watching teams which include around 30 students including students from Manipur University’s environment science department, moved out in five groups using twelve local boats from Thingungei shoreline towards the main lake area for about two hours during the day’s trip before returning back at the starting point to share their feedbacks.

Speaking to reporters on the sideline of the day’s event, DFO Debala said that the main objective of organising such an event is to spread the awareness and importance of birds to the students and public. The department’s major objective is for the conservation of water birds and migratory birds in and around Loktak for a better biodiversity in the region, she added.

There are reports of sudden decline of the population of the migratory birds at the Loktak Lake due to implementation of new techniques of fishing in the lake. Some of the important migratory water birds failed to turn up last year, may be because of it, a bird lover opined.

IMPHAL | Sept 30

The 121st birth anniversary of Jananeta Hijam Irawat was observed at Manipur University campus organised by Irawat Celebration Committee Manipur University.

Floral tributes were paid at the statute of the eminent leader installed in front of Manipur University library. Patriotic songs were played during the function. Students paid red salute with raised fist to the pioneer.

Speaking on the occasion, minister L. Jayantakumar Singh disclosed the government decision to dedicate the land next to Manipur State Assembly Complex in honour of freedom fighter and social activist Jananeta Hijam Irawat Singh and named as “Irawat Square”.

He further expressed his disappointment over the fact that few political parties and social organisations has expressed Jananeta Hijam Irawat as their own within their narrow framework and requested the media to convey the wishes of the current government to keep Jananeta Hijam Irawat as a State Icon above every social and political based division.

Minister L. Sushindro Meitei said that Lamyanba Hiajm Irawat is not only a leader of single political party but was the leader of Manipur. He urged the people of Manipur to support the government in their efforts for the installation of the statue of Jananeta Hijam Irawat at plot located opposite to Manipur Legislative Assembly complex. Government is also trying at the maximum level to make aware about Hijam Irawat Singh to the students community, he added.

The observance function was also attended by dean of Social Sciences MU, ProfN. Lokendra Singh, dean, School of Humanities, Manipur University, ProfM.  Mani Meitei, dean, School of Human and Environmental Sciences, Prof Arunkumar, Librarian Manipur University Prof Th. Madhuri Devi, dean of Students Welfare, Manipur University, Prof Kh. Tomba Singh and director of MIMS and CESD Manipur University, Prof Ch. Ibohal Meitei as chief guest, president and guests of honour, respectively among others.

IMPHAL | Sept 30

All Manipur Building and Others Construction Workers Welfare Union claimed that some organisations gave false allegation to the Manipur Building Constructions Welfare Board (MBCWB) chairperson and cashier.

Speaking to media persons the union’s spokesperson, M. Sunita said that it has been only four months the S. Preshyojit was appointed as the chairperson of MBCWB and dirty politics has been playing in the labour department since the department was established so blaming him for the unwanted action of the department will be very wrong.

She said a shelter home of the department was constructed at Chingmeirong Khonangani Karak but found out that the land document belong to an individual.

Such action is the dirty work of some employees of the department and some members of the board, she added.

Moreover, the welfare benefits of the labour for the year 2013 till 2016 is still not made available to the labourers, continued the spokesperson.

Earlier labour card was not made in the office and files and records were not proper maintained but since Preshyojit was appointed as the new chairperson labour card is made in the office and started maintaining proper record and is working to computerise the records and files, added Sunita.

Moreover, the new chairperson is working very hard to release the four years pending welfare benefits of labour within three months and to make the labour department a transparency department, continued the spokesperson.

Newmai News Network

SENAPATI | Sept 29

United Naga Council (UNC) demanded the State Government of Manipur and the Government of India to make their respective “clear-cut” positions on the 7 new district creation issue/tripartite talks within 48 hours. UNC said that Naga people and UNC should not be held responsible for any eventuality in the event of the failure from the government sides to pay heed to its demand.

This decision was taken in today’s presidential council meeting of UNC, according to the Naga body.

UNC held its ‘presidential council meeting’ in its office at Senapati where UNC executives and Naga frontal organizations participated it, according to UNC. The Naga body said also that today’s meeting “seriously viewed the dilly-dallying tactics played by the Government of India and the State Government of Manipur on the tripartite talks/the 7 new district creation issue.”

According to UNC, on September 15 it had asked the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India, regarding the latter’s position on the next tripartite talks “but till date nothing has come forth from the MHA.” UNC then said that the State Government of Manipur and the Central Government should not take the Nagas for granted.

“We will wait for the next 48 hours and in case if the MHA and the State Government of Manipur do not respond or do not give satisfactory response to our demand, then we have no other option but to take up our own course of action,” asserted the Naga body.

In today’s meeting, UNC executives and Naga frontal organizations also discussed their preparedness on the course of action to be taken up in the event of the failure from the MHA and the Manipur to respond or do not give “satisfactory response to our demand,” disclosed the Naga body.

It can be noted here that, tripartite talks on district creation issue was held at Senapati on August 11 where UNC, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the State Government of Manipur representatives had participated. The three parties had agreed upon to hold “next round of talks” in the month of September.

The August 11 talks were brought up to the ‘political level’ with the participation of three cabinet ministers of Manipur, which included Agriculture & Veterinary Minister V. Hangkhanlian, Tribal Affairs & Hills Minister N Kayisii and Education & Labour and Employment Minister Th Radheshyam.

Apart from the three cabinet ministers, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Dr .J. Suresh Babu and Commissioner (Works & IPR) K. Radhakumar Singh had also participated in the talks. A large number of UNC team had participated in the August 11 talks chaired by Satyendra Garg, the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 29

The World Heart Day was observed today by Manipur Heart Care Society at Lainingthou Khamlangba community hall, Imphal West.

Delivering the presidential speech JNIMS medicine department, professor, Y. Iboton Singh said that 17.3 million people died every year due to heart diseases, becoming the disease which causes maximum deaths.

If a child having heart disease is not treated in time, the child will have poor health condition in his or her whole life and in case if it is a girl it will not have the capacity to deliver a child as there is 99 percent chances of death during delivery, he added.

Family problems, pressure, tension and unhealthy diet are the main factors of rising heart disease, continued the president.

India is one of the leading countries which have high number of heart patients and as for the state 15 patients out of every 100 patients treating in JNIMS and RIMS are heart patient, added Iboton.

He asked the people of the state to visit doctors at once if there is any doubt of having heart problem as it is easy for treatment during the early stage.

He said that people should check their health regularly to stay healthy.

Moreover, people having high or low blood pressure need to take their medicine regularly and timely and should often check their blood pressure regularly, added the president.

The function was attended by Manipur University’s former director (AVRC), Lokendra Arambam as chief guest and senior cardiac surgeon, professor, Ksh. Kala Singh as guest of honour.

From Our Correspondent

KANGPOKPI | Sept 29

The road leading to Saikul hill town from Imphal suddenly tumbled near Champhai located around 7 Km away from Saikul sub-division today at around 2:30 pm due to a heavy landslide.

Many vehicles passing along the road were stranded for few hours until a JCB cleared the half remaining road which could only accommodate only light motor vehicles.

The place of occurrence is reportedly under Imphal East in Khundrakpham Assembly constituency and road is near a river bank.

President of Kuki Inpi Saikul Gamkai, Seimang Lupho has appealed to the state government and concerned department for early intervention so as to avoid further grievances of thousands people of Saikul areas.

He alleged that the unfortunate incident happened today due to negligence on the part of the concerned PWD department as half of the road had already been carried away earlier. A representation had already been submitted to the IFC minister for construction of retaining wall at the site earlier, he added.

Seimang Lupho also appealed the MLA of Khundrakpham and Saikul Assembly constituency for swift intervention in the interest of their respectively electorates without further delay.

Imphal-Saikul road is the only lifeline of the people as there is no other alternate connectivity road except Sapormeina-Saikul road which is currently not motorable owing to the breakdown of the bridge over Gundung near Sapormeina in the aftermath of cyclone Mora which is still unattended.

Meanwhile, the roadway connecting from Yairipok to Nongpok Keithelmanbi was cut off after a landslide reportedly occurred at the Malom side.

The landslide occurred on the ground below the road, cutting of a massive chunk of the path and making it no longer crossable. This has caused difficulties to the villagers of Moirangpurel, Tumbukhong etc.

The villagers have appealed to the authorities concerned to urgently look into the matter. It may be mentioned that the area where the landslide occurred comes under Andro Assembly constituency.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 29

The Socialist Students Union of Manipur (SSUM), Manipur Proletariat Peoples’ Democratic Union and Struggle Committee Manipur will observe the 121st birth anniversary of Hijam Irabot tomorrow at Keishampat Lairembi community hall.

Speaking to media persons today at SSUM office at Keishampat, SSUM convenor, publicity and propaganda, N. Tanoranjan said that in connection with the day, awards will be given to five journalists and one media house of the state for their dedication to their works.

The people’s choice editor award will be given to Hueiyen Lanpao editor, Hemantakumar Ningomba, people’s choice newspaper award to Sanaleibak, investigative journalist award to Imphal Free Press, senior reporter, Paojel Chaoba, reporter’s award to ISTV video journalist U. Indraraj, people’s choice special category award to Hueiyen Lanpao, reporter, Gyanand Naorem and sport journalist award to Poknapham, reporter H. Sadananda, he added.

During the programme prizes will be distributed to the winners of the “Irabot Seitha Ishei Changdamnaba”  that took place on September 21 at G.M. Hall and also to the winners of the march past competition which was conducted at THAU ground on September 26 in relates with the 66th death anniversary of Hijam Irabot, he continued.

Tanoranjan announced that the winners of “Irabot Seitha Ishei Changdamnaba” are Bhanupati Devi, Th. Sinthoibi and S. Nonglennganbi for the junior category and A. Tondonsana, S. Jeevan and Alice Khongbantabam for the senior category.

He further announced that the winners of the march past competition for the junior category are Royal Education Centre (girls), Paradise English School (boys) and Standard Robert Higher Secondary School (girls) and winners for the senior category are 65th Girl NCC, Royal Education Centre (boys) and Paradise English School (girls).

IMPHAL | Sept 29

Cleanliness is not limited to any person or place, it is the responsibility of everyone to keep themselves clean as well as their surroundings to make India a clean India in the real sense. This was stated by governor of Dr. Najma Heptullah at the inaugural function of Swachh Bharat Week at Indira Gandhi National Tribal University Regional Campus, Makhan, Manipur in Kangpokpi District.

The celebration of Swachh Bharat Week was begins September 25 and will conclude on October 2.

Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, governor said that during the week long programme, a series of activities will focus on a number of subjects and the organisers deserve commendation for choosing some pressing issues for deliberation.

She further said that Swachh Bharat Mission, a clean India campaign is the responsibility of all of us. It is a mass movement launched by the government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister to make India, a Clean India by 2019.

It was the dream of the Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi for the people to maintain swachhta for a healthy and prosperous life. Unfortunately, it has not been so effective before because of the lack of awareness and cooperation of the people, lack of supervision of concerned departments, lack of accountability of the concerned people, lack of dedication and sincerity among the government machineries.

She said Swachh Bharat Mission was launched on October 2, 145th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, popularly known as Bapu and it is aimed to be completed on October 2, 2019, the 150th birth anniversary of Bapu.

Cleanliness is holiness and this mission is intended to cover all the rural and urban areas for maintaining cleanliness all over the country.

One important component of the Swachh Bharat Mission campaign is elimination of open defecation in the country. Manipur is well advanced on this front and large parts of the state have been declared as open defecation free.

A huge positive of open defecation free is that it can keep the people healthy and check crime against women i the rural areas. Further, maintenance of cleanliness and hygiene in India would bring great opportunities in the country to enhance its economic status by improving tourism as well as keeping the citizens healthy and happy.

Cleanliness would keep everyone happy and healthy in all respects physically, mentally, socially and intellectually by reducing the chance of diseases. The state government has taken up various activities during the Swachh Bharat campaign t keep our environment clean.

The governor was impressed by the intitiative taken by the university to celebrate Swachh Bharat and hope it will continue on regular basis. The efforts will keep the campus clean and green by strengthening the existing forest cover and also by developing new green cover in the campus.

Later, governor  planted a tree which was also attended by faculty and students of the university. The celebration of Swachh Bharat Week was graced by Prof. N. Rajmuhon Singh, vice-president, BEENET, Manipur & dean, school of mathematical and physical sciences, Manipur University as president, Prof. Sarungbam Birendra Singh, director, National Institute of Technology, Manipur as guest of honour in presence of Prof. Ramjeevan Singh Thakur, director, IGNTU-RCM. The celebration was organised by Eco-Club, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, regional campus, Manipur in collaboration with Biodiversity, Ecology and Environment Network, Manipur.

Super special incentive for the state FIFA players, if team victorious

IMPHAL | Sept 29

Conveying heartiest congratulations to the eight footballers from the state who made the cut in the Indian squad for FIFA U-17 World Cup, youth affairs and sports minister Letpao Haokip wished them and the Indian team all success in their campaign.

“Really it is very heartening that eight boys from Manipur are representing the country in the U-17 FIFA world cup. I wish them the best of luck. I also thank the players for their hard-works which earned them a place in the Indian football squad. We, the people of Manipur are with them. They are the face of Manipur,” Letpao said in a press meet held at the secretariat conference hall today.

Letpao, who himself was a professional footballer, announced Rs. 10,000 each to the eight players from his personal end as a token of encouragement.

The minister said that the government has a policy for awarding special incentives to international players from the state. He said every sports person who represented the state or the country in international arenas are given Rs. 5 lakh cash incentive. The same will be applied to the eight footballers selected to represent India in the U-17 World Cup, Letpao said.

“A super special incentive for the players are planned by the government if the players win gold medal,” he said while refusing to disclose what ‘this super special incentive’ would be.

The eight players from Manipur who are in the Indian U-17 FIFA World Cup squad are Dheeraj S. Moirangthem (GK), Boris Singh Thangjam (Defender), Suresh Singh Wahengbam (MF), Nongdamba Naorem (MF), Mohammad Shahjahan (MF), Khumanthem Ningthounganba (MF), Jackson Singh Thounaojam (MF) and Amarjit Singh Kiyam (MF).

The minister also congratulated referee Thumli Joysing Monsang of Chandel on being selected by Professional Games Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) for a programme in collaboration with All India Football Federation (AIFF) and IMG.

“I feel proud of him,” he said adding that it is a matter of pride for Manipur as well as India to see a young referee got selected to undergo such course. The minister also promised possible financial assistance from his side before he leaves for the course.

The Minister said that incentives would be given to all players in recognised disciplines who participated in national/international events through proper channel.

There is five percent job reservations for sports persons in every recruitment. In some cases,

outstanding sportspersons are given government jobs immediately by creating suitable posts in commensuration with their qualification.

Letpao also said that playground development in the grassroots level will be taken up under Khelo India project.

Replying to a query, the minister said sports infrastructure construction which are left unfinished in every district of the state would be completed by the present government at the earliest.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 29

Works minister, Th. Bishwajit Singh strongly refuted the allegations made by an editor of a local daily during morning news analysis programme of All India Radio (AIR) Thursday, against the works department, terming it as unfortunate.

The editor of the local daily during the talk show reportedly criticized the present government particularly works department for its alleged failure to repair roads in Imphal dotted with potholes.

Addressing a press conference at his office, the minister regretted the editor’s allegations for being ignorant and unbecoming for a senior journalist.

Bishwajit claimed the editor has entirely neglected the fact that Manipur this time has come under unpredictable onslaught of inclement weather at an unprecedented scale.

Incessant rains has brought floods in the state for the fifth time besides triggering widespread landslides in the hills leaving trails of destruction, he said.

Nevertheless, the government has been doing its best in responding to the prevailing situation and taking necessary measures, he asserted.

The minister pointed out that even before the recently concluded budget session the department has taken up repairing works to fill potholes in Imphal taking into consideration the immediate need.

However, constant rains and floodings have reduced the repairs worthless, he added.

To avoid wasting of unnecessary time and funds taking up frequent temporary repairs citing unpredictable weather the department has made plans to give a proper facelift of the entire state, maintained the minister.

Stating that necessary planning is almost complete, he assured to bring about a substantial change of the entire structure including road conditions, drainage system of the state by March.  He appealed to the public to bear with the department.

Further countering the criticism, the works minister dared the critic to take the responsibility of taking up works during rainy season.

Bishwajit, who is also holding the portfolio of power, further gave his best shot to provide uninterrupted electricity during the upcoming under 17-FIFA football world cup due to begin from October.