kanglaonline – Page 453

Damned by Sekmai dam

The collapse on July 23, of the Sekmai River Lift Irrigation (RLI) Scheme dam built on the Imphal River under the sponsorship of NEC at the cost of Rs. 4.22

The collapse on July 23, of the Sekmai River Lift Irrigation (RLI) Scheme dam built on the Imphal River under the sponsorship of NEC at the cost of Rs. 4.22 crores, should simply be the limit of public tolerance of corruption. That this disaster should have come when the state is literally in an inferno over an issue that many see as an existential crisis Manipur is faced with, has brought out the nature of rot in the system and the shameless unconcern of the power elite like nothing else could have. There had been complaints from people in the Sekmai area about the atrocious and dangerous compromises in the built quality of the dam but no serious heed was paid until cracks began to be noticed around June and the matter came up for discussions in the Assembly during the tumultuous monsoon session where the chief minister Okram Ibobi had clarified that the completed project had still not been totally handed over to the government, so it was the concerned contractor who should be made answerable. He did say that the matter was being inquired into by the state`™s vigilance department.

This is a very lame excuse at best. By Manipur standards, this is not a small project, therefore it is unlikely the entire project money was released immediately after the project was awarded to the contractor. Instead funds would have been released in steps, after crosschecking the quality as well as progress of the construction work. The fault therefore, cannot under any circumstance be of the contractor or contractors alone. Those who awarded the work; those who were supposed to monitor and clear the project at every stage; as well as the contractors who actually executed the work would all have been party to this organised robbery. This obviously is also not an isolated incident, but part of the state`™s modern culture of corruption whereby an elaborate nexus of contractor-technocrat-bureaucrat-politician siphons off public money into their individual pockets in standardised percentages. The rising number of government employees with accumulated wealth far beyond their known sources of incomes, is evidence of this rot within the system. People only laugh at petty VDF personnel on the streets extorting petty changes from auto rickshaws, but generally are unconcerned about the bigger, more brazen and more organised thefts happening at practically every level of the government. The higher the hierarchy of these nexuses, the bigger also would be the booties at stake. Since the Sekmai dam could not even withstand the onslaught of a single monsoon torrent of a river that can hardly be said to be mighty, it is anybody guess what percentage of the Rs. 4.22 crore would have been spent in the actual construction of the dam.

The question of the threat of demographic marginalisation of the original population of the state is nothing to trifle, but the bigger threat to the survival of any people is a corrupt leadership who place their personal benefits and welfares ahead of public good. Plenty of scholarships available today on histories of societies which survived the worst odds and those which perished when faced with adversities that could have been survived, all point to this. Anthropologist Jared Diamond`™s celebrated 2005 book: `Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed` is just one of these. Manipur at this moment seems to resemble some of the worst case scenarios Diamond sketches. The alarming thing is, nobody reprimands corruption today. Anybody who is rich, even when there is a big question mark on his or her known legitimate sources of income, is envied and respected. The new culture is such that given the opportunity, even those outside the corruption nexus, would willingly be partners in the same crimes that they pretend to revile while not belonging to the nexus. Money, even if it is corruption money, enjoys a social sanctity today. This is the tragedy.

It is rather late in the day, but the government must at least make the effort to absolve itself of the crime of corruption. So far it could at least hide its head in the sand, claiming these are mere allegation from its opponents, but not anymore. The Sekmai dam collapse, and yes the submergence of a newly built school building at Chadong, have made this sordid affair openly visible to anyone. Let there be impartial inquiries into these atrocious affairs and all found guilty awarded exemplary punishments as per law. But the matter must not be allowed to end here. A civil society initiated social reformation movement against corruption is also called for. A general censure, rather than respect, of people who get wealthy by dubious means, can be a good start.

Leader Writer: Pradip Phanjoubam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/damned-by-sekmai-dam/

What to do if the Governor refer the New Bill on ILP to the President of India

By Dr.Khomdon Singh Lisam On 9 July, 2015, our Hon`™ble Chief Minister, Shri Okram Ibobi Singh declared that the State Governor has not given his assent to the Manipur Regulation

By Dr.Khomdon Singh Lisam

On 9 July, 2015, our Hon`™ble Chief Minister, Shri Okram Ibobi Singh declared that the State Governor has not given his assent to the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants & Migrant Workers Bill, 2015, which was passed during the 10th session of the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly. According to the Chief Minister, `the Bill was extensively recommended following a detailed discussion for more than five months.` The Bill was also rejected by the people of Manipur, which leads to a series of public agitation under the banner of JCILPS.

The unfortunate part is that the death of Sapam Robinhood Singh (16), S/O S. Romesh Singh of Keisamthong Thangjam Leirak , Imphal. a student from the Anand Singh Higher Secondary School on 8 July, 2015 has added fuel to the fire. The State Government has not ordered even a judicial enquire to do justice to the bereaved family and to calm down the agitation. Probably the JCILPS and JAC may like to take up this issue. It is reported that the Manipur Police has filed an FIR against the deceased Sapam Robinhood instead of treating him as a victim of police atrocity. There are many things which US Marshals Service or GSG 9 of Germany or Scotland Yard Police of UK can learn from Manipur Police. Next year, they may be eligible of the President Medal

The Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants & Migrant Workers Bill, 2015 has been reserved for consultation with the President of India

The Chief Minister, after a long silence disclosed that the State Government has submitted the Bill to His Excellency, the Governor of Manipur on 20 March, 2015 for giving Assent. On 23 June, 2015, His Excellency, the Governor of Manipur informed the State Government that the Bill has been reserved for consultation with the President of India under Article 201 of the Indian Constitution. These procedural failures shows lack of transparency and lack of seriousness and lack of leadership on the part of the State Government.

On 15 July, 2015 , the Manipur State Assembly withdraw the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants & Migrant Workers Bill, 2015

On 12 July, 2015, the Congress Legislators Party decided to withdraw the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and migrant Workers Bill, 2015 as passed in the Manipur Legislative Assembly on 16 March 2015. The decision to withdraw the Bill has come after intense public agitation, open defiance of the curfew for more than five days and mounting public pressure to withdraw the Bill. On 15 July, 2015 , the Manipur State Assembly withdraw the Bill. The Hon`™ble Chief Minister expressed his intension to constitute a committee comprising of members from the Joint Committee On Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) to replace the controversial bill.

The earlier six recommendations of the Political Parties and the comments of the legal experts over a period of five months were rendered useless by the State Government due to poor leadership and lack of seriousness on the part of the State Government.

Who drafted the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill, 2015 (MRVTMW).

Shri Laisom Ibomcha Singh, Hon`™ble MLA stated in the Manipur Legislative Assembly that three officials are responsible for drafting of the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill, 2015 (MRVTMW). He did not mention the names of the officials. If the statement is true, then the three officials are responsible for creating civil unrest and anarchy in Manipur and they should be given forced retirement for misleading and acting against the interest of the people of Manipur and misguiding the Manipur State Government. How and why did the Manipur State Government gave power and authority to the migrant workers for drafting a Bill to control migrant workers in Manipur. Is it not funny.. Recently our Hon`™ble Chief Minister has given forced leave to the Director of JNIMS for committing a lesser crime. The crimes committed by these three officials as mentioned by shri Ibomcha Singh, Hon`™ble MLA. Is 100 times more severe than what the Director of JNIMS has committed. I hope the Hon`™ble Chief Minister may do something serious to protect the prestige and image of the Manipur State Government. Our spineless, deaf and dumb MLAs are maintaining a deafening silence at this critical juncture. They are not interested in public issues. They are more interested in distributing old age pensions to poor senior citizens under video coverage violating the privacy, human dignity and human rights of the poor helpless senior citizens. Probably the JCILPS may like to take up this issue.

Earlier Assurances of the Government of Manipur

On 22 July, 1980, the All Manipur Students Union(MSU) and All Manipur Students Co-ordinating Committee (AMSCOC) signed an agreement with the Government of Manipur to initiate identification, detection of foreigners from 1st August, 1980 of all outsiders and send them back home. On 9 November, 1994, a second such agreement as signed by the AMSU with the Government of Manipur. There have a series of protests and movement for introduction of Inner Line Permit system in Manipur . The response of the state government is quite encouraging . The matter has been under active consideration of the State Government . But till date nothing significant has been done during 1980-2015. This is the proof of efficiency of the State Government.

Earlier Attempts of Manipur Government

1.On 12 July, 2012, the State Cabinet under the leadership of the Chief Minister has passed a CABINET RESOLUTION to urge the Government of India to extend the provisions of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations, 1873 to the State of Manipur.

2. On 13 July,2012, in consonance with the public demand for implementation of Inner Line Permit system to regulate inflow of outsiders, the Manipur State Assembly had unanimously passed a resolution to put pressure on the Government of India to extend and adopt the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation- 1873 with necessary changes in the point of details to the state of Manipur.

3. On 3rd August, 2012, Dr. J. Suresh Babu, Principal Secretary (Home) in his letter no. 1/1(12) /2011 Home dated 3rd August , 2012 has sent a simple one page request letter to the Home Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India to extend the provisions of Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation 1873 (BEFR) to the state of Manipur. But there is no evidence of enclosing any background material and justification in his letter for demanding implementation of BEFR-1873.

4. On 5th August, 2012 as a reply to the Ministry of Home Affaires Mr. Geoffrey, Joint Secretary `“Home, Government of Manipur mentioned in his letter no. 1/1(12)/2011 `“Home (PMR-19) dated that ` the state did not have ILP system in the past`? Manipur Durbar was having a Pass System from 1901 to 1950. The Government of India has approved retention of the said Permit System in Manipur vide Mr. G.E.D Walker, Advisor to the Governor of Assam letter no. 120/47/C- 26-27 dated 17th January, 1948 and adopted by His Highness, Maharaja of Manipur on 26 February 1948? Every outside migrant from other states was required to take a Pass for entering the geographical boundaries of Manipur. This is one kind of Inner Line Permit System since the permit was required for entering the geographical boundaries of Manipur . Then how and why Mr. Geoffrey mentioned in his letter that ` the state did not have ILP system in the past`? The action of Mr. Geoffrey tantamount to sabotaging the State Government`™s efforts and hijacking the people`™s mass movement is a serous crime which needs exemplary disciplinary action.

What are the essential features of the New Bill

In this connection, all the essential features of the New Bill has been described in my previous article entitled `Agenda of the Upcoming Manipur State Assembly regarding a New Bill on ILP` which has been published in prominent English newspapers (14-07-2015), E-pao, Manipur Times etc.

The essential features includes (1) Title of the Bill (2) Objectives and Reasons of the Bill (3) Appropriate definition of Permanent Resident with cut off date of 18 November 1950 (date on which Himmat Singh abolished the Permit System ) (4) Compulsory Registration of outside Migrant Workers on payment of prescribed fees with exemption clauses. (5) Penalty and Punishment clauses for delayed registration or non-registration (6) protection of ancestral land of indigenous people (7) Provision for deletion of the names of the migrant workers who entered Manipur after 18 November, 1950 and their descendants from the electoral rolls of Manipur (8) Provision on Ban on employment in Government sector of Outsiders, who entered Manipur after 18 November, 1950 and their descendants. (9) Provision on Ban on joining competitive examinations in higher educational, Technical educational and professional courses for children of Outsiders, who entered Manipur after 18 November, 1950 and their descendants.

If these provisions are not included in the New Bill, it will be incomplete and the indigenous people of Manipur will continue to suffer. Luckily, our Hon`™le Chief Minister ha expressed his desire to include all the features to satisfy the will of the people.

Proposal of the President, BJP, Manipur

Not a single political party should try to take credit for having passed a bill with all essential features fulfilling the wishes of the people. The state government should work with complete transparency in collaboration with other political parties.based on mutual trust. Shri Th. Chaoba Singh, President BJP should be given an important role considering the role, the BJP can play in getting the approval of the Central Government and assent of the president. His suggestions (1) for constituting a drafting committee comprising of Legal Experts, political representatives, civil society representatives, experts, academicians, JCILPS representatives etc (2) holding a State Seminar for 4-5 days where legal experts, civil society representatives, prominent citizens, academicians, women representatives, JCILPS are very appropriate and should be carried out without further delay Shri Th. Chaoba Singh, President BJP may be given the president ship of the drafting committee. The Drafting Committee may invite suggestions in writing from the people within a limited time. If he is given president ship of the drafting committee, it becomes his responsibility to translate it into action.

Engaging a recognized constitutional experts in India will ensure validity, authenticity of the draft and enhance acceptability of the Bill by the Government of India.

The State Government may seriously consider engaging a recognized constitutional experts in India like Ram Jethmalani, Harish Salve, Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap, Madhav Khosla etc to guide the drafting committee . The Government of India will respect and take seriously the views of these Constitutional experts. This simple step will enhance authenticity of the draft and the acceptability of the Bill by the Government of India. The report of the Drafting committee should bear the signature and seal of the recognised Constitutional Expert as a Consultant.

Holding a PUBLIC HEARING will ensure mass participation while preparing the draft bill

One of the Civil Societies (UCM, AMUCO) may be given the responsibility of organising a public hearing in collaboration with other prominent civil societies for 2-3 days by making open invitation of about 2000-3000 people at BOAT to solicit the views of the common people and submission of report to the President of the Drafting Committee.

Getting Assent of the Governor of Manipur

After observing the actions of His Excellency, the Governor of Manipur in case of `Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants & Migrant Workers Bill, 2015` , we may anticipate that even if the Manipur State Assembly passed a perfect Bill in fulfillment of the demands of the JCLPS and the wishes of the people incorporating all the essential features, the Governor of Manipur , in all probabilities is likely to refer the Bill to the President of India under Article 201 of the Indian Constitution. My fear is that the President of India may reject the Bill as unconstitutional. We should not forget the comments of and experience with Mr. Sushil Kumar Sinde, the then Union Home Minister, who is reported to have said, `Our Constitution will not allow such things. Any sensible person who believes in the Constitution will not pass such a bill.` Although he is a member of the INC, no Congress leader in Manipur has got the guts and courage to question Mr. Sushil Kumar Sinde. How can Mr. Sinde say that a regulation which is in force in Arunachal, Nagaland, Mizoram be termed as `unconstitutional`.

Getting Assent of the President of India

His Excellency, the President of India may require to be briefed about the need for implementation of the Inner Line Permit System in Manipur to correct the population imbalance and to protect the indigenous people (natives) of Manipur so as to enable him to give the assent. For this, we need to work in unity irrespective political difference in the greater interest of the people.

Just after sending the Bill to the Governor of Manipur , the Presidents and their team of political parties of Bharatiya Janata Party 282 MPs), Indian National Congress( 44 MPs), All India Trinamool Congress (34 MPs) , Communist Party of India (Marxist) (9 MPs) Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (6 MPs) should leave Imphal immediately and camped at Delhi to do a lot of advocacy and lobbying with the Central Political Leaders to get the assent of the president.

Mr. Th. Chaoba Singh, President of BJP, Manipur with long years of experience enjoying the confidence of Shri Narendra Modi , Prime Minister of India and his team should stay in Delhi and convince the Union Home Minister, the Prime Minister, BJP President and the President of India till the President of India signs the Assent. He should not try to shrug off his responsibility on some excuses and political difference. He and his team should not come back to Manipur till the President give his assent. Similarly. all the presidents , secretaries of the , Indian National Congress, All India Trinamool Congress, Communist Party of India, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) should leave Manipur and camped in Delhi to advocate and lobby with the national party leaders till the assent of the President is obtained . If they failed to achieve this mission, the people may resort to many unwanted events including ban of national political parties in Manipur etc. We do not want to repeat the mistakes of 18 June,2001.

What to do if the President of India reject to give assent to the New Bill

A single team of Manipur under the leadership of Shri O. Ibobi Sngh, Chief Minister of Manipur assisted by Shri Th. Chaoba Singh, President, BJP, presidents , Secretaries of All India Trinamool Congress, NCP and CPI, civil society representatives, constitutional Experts should meet the Union Home Minister, Prime Minister , President of India, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi . All appointments with national leaders should be fixed while they are still in Imphal. Let us shed our ego, pride and arrogance for the sake of people. We may request His Excellency, the Governor of Manipur to work in greater interest of Manipur and meet the national leaders separately. I feel that there is no need for his Excellency to come back to Manipur without fulfilling the wishes of the people.

If the Home Minister , Prime Minister and the President are hell-bent on rejecting the bill, we should exact a promise to support our proposal for amendment of the constitution of India. We may warn them that if they reject all our demands, then there may be burning of Manipur and responsibility should lie with the Government of India.

Demands for Constitutional Amendments

We should have the courage to tell the central leaders that the Government of India has already committed a series of blunders to the people in Manipur during 1949-2001. Referring to the statement of G.K. Pillai, the then Union Home Secretary, which was published on 27 September, 2011 in the Telegraph newspaper, we can say that ` the ancient kingdom of Manipur had a constitution even before India wrote her own and democracy was introduced in Manipur well before India became a democratic country. But Manipur was reduced to a C-category state under the Indian Constitution in 1948. Nagaland was granted Statehood from a village republic in 1963 while Manipur with a proud history of more than 2000 years was granted statehood only in 1972. This blunder of the Government of India has resulted in creating insurgency problem in Manipur. The existing Article 371C of the Indian Constitution is found to be extremely discriminatory and the source of all communal conflicts in Manipur which needs to be amended.
The people of Manipur feel that that the Indian Constitution was imposed on Manipur without ratification. Manipur did not participate in the Indian Constitutional debate held during 9th december,1946 to 24th January ,1950. It was never ratified by the then Manipur State Assembly. Manipur has never asked the Government of India for constitutional amendment during the last 65 years. The Government of India is offering constitutional amendment just o satisfy Muivah, the General Secretary of NSCN-IM whereas we do not have the courage to ask for constitutional amendments.. We strongly feel that only after constitutional amendment, Manipur will be able to bring about communal harmony, unity, equality and solidarity among all ethnic groups of Manipur and achieve peace and development in Manipur. We can further mention that we, the people of Manipur request the Home Minister , Prime Minister, the President of India to find a permanent cure to these past blunders in Manipur and consider amendment of the Indian Constitution. We can not ask for constitutional amendment off and on. Some civil societies are working on ` Territorial Integrity:, some others are working on ` Schedule Tribe Demand ` while JCILPS is working on ` Inner Line Permt System`. All these demands require constitutional amendments. Surprisingly, they never ask for constitutional amendments. Further there are many core issues of Manipur which need constitutional amendments. Considering all these points, our demands for constitutional amendments may include the following :-

Main features of Constitutional Amendments

1. The Article 3 of Indian Constitution regarding alteration of state boundaries shall not apply in respect of Manipur to protect the 2000 year old territorial integrity of Manipur. The last experience of Telengana State formation with the blessings of Sonia Gandhi bypassing the state assembly was a very bad example.

2. The Union List and Concurrent list under the Indian Constitution pertaining to Manipur shall be taken up by the Government of India only with the concurrence of the State Legislative Assembly

3. Since 90% of Manipur is hill area, Manipur may be declared as a Hill State

4. All the ethnic groups in Manipur may be brought under an uniform land laws

5. Any person from other states of India will be allowed to purchase lands only with the approval of the State Government to protect the indigenous people of Manipur.

6. Any person from other states of India shall need an `Inner Line Permit` to enter Manipur on payment of nominal fees to protect the identity, culture, traditions, language, script of the Manipuris . Manipur welcomes all people from other states to visit Manipur . This will have retrospective effect since 18 November, 1950.

7. The Constitution should provide establishment of an upper house (Legislative Council) with a minimum of 40 members with 10 seats reserved for nomination.

8. The Number of Rajya Sabha MPs should be increased to seven (7) on the basis of equal representation of states as done in USA and other countries. Large and small states should be treated at par in the Rajya Sabha or Council of States.

9. The followers of Pakhangba `“Sanamahi religion may be included under ` Scheduled Tribe category` of the Indian Constitution to restore equality among the ethnic groups.

10. The Manipuri script ( Meitei Mayek) should be included in the coins and currency bank notes

If the Home Minister, Prime Minister, the President of India fails to assure the constitutional amendment within a time frame even up to the last moment, the JCILPS in collaboration with other civil societies may launch a more serious, more severe, more intensive mass movement with the people of Manipur including non-cooperation , civil disobedience to achieve our goal. Our Political Leaders may take this single agenda issue with the Central Leaders. Our Chief Ministers with his MLAs and thousands of volunteers may launch a Dharna at the Jantar Mantar till the demand is given.

(The writer can be reached at- Khomdon.lisam@yahoo.com)

Why not asking Prime Minister Modi to give 100 to Nagas not 80!

Two days of discussion on the Naga political issue with almost all the legislators taking part on the Floor of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly has shown very clearly that not

Two days of discussion on the Naga political issue with almost all the legislators taking part on the Floor of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly has shown very clearly that not a single legislators of the present 12th NLA is aware of the `Charter of Demands` on which the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) leaders have been negotiating for more than a decade. It can now safely be concluded that the House is kept in the dark of the political negotiations. They, however, agreed that the talks between the two parties have been quite long and for which they should urge them to expedite the process for an early settlement to the Naga political issue.

We all know that the talks have been going on only between the `Government of India and the NSCN (IM),` to be very precise, and most of the legislators or for that matter many political pundits as well as media persons have been referring to that. The Government of India`™s mind is very clear that once the final stage to ink for settlement to the Naga issue is arrived at, they will perhaps start letting Naga legislators know that the solution will be `Inclusive` and other components therein. We have heard what Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Interlocutor RN Ravi have recently told the 19-Member Parliamentary Working Committee (PWC) of Nagaland with regard to the settlement of the Naga political issue. And most of the Members who were part of the 19-Member PWC Team at Delhi enlightened the House of what they heard from the mouths of the Prime Minister and Interlocutor during the two-day discussion on the Naga political issue.

Today, the Central leaders and many Naga leaders have questioned the NSCN (K) on their `unilateral abrogation` of the `Ceasefire` with the Government of India. But none of them has carefully studied as to why the outfit had taken this highly dangerous step knowing fully that such move would only lead to unwanted development.

If we think 18 years of Center-NSCN (IM) ceasefire is very long, then NSCN (K)`™s 14 years of ceasefire with the Government of India cannot be a short one. If one dissects the nature of these two ceasefires, it will be only exposing the confusing or rather insensitive nature on the part of the Government of India. We don`™t know whether Delhi knows the ground realities prevailing here in Nagaland or the issues critically involving neighboring States particularly Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and even Myanmar. General Secretary of the NSCN (IM), Thuingaleng Muivah, is from the present State of Manipur, while the Chairman of the NSCN (K) SS Khaplang is from Myanmar.

Everyone knows that the NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) have been deadly rivals since they split into two from their undivided NSCN in 1988 and hundreds of cadres belonging to both of them lost their precious lives only because of the clashes between them. Such factional deadly clashes even continued even after NSCN (K) entered into ceasefire with the Government of India in 2001. But due to the interventions of various civil societies particularly the FNR, the specter of factionalism has come down drastically and the chasm among the factions reduced.

The fact is the NSCN (K) during their long 14-year ceasefire with the Government of India had only suffered beyond repair. They had even suffered split while maintaining ceasefire with the Government of India. Interestingly, and for whatever reason, we don`™t know, the Government of India wasn`™t prepared to hold political talks, not even once, with the leadership of the NSCN (K) in their long 14-year ceasefire, but continues to hold political talks in full swing with NSCN (IM) leaderships since their ceasefire in 1997. This development had made the leaders of NSCN (K) a mockery, besides humiliating them. Had Delhi taken some minimum initiative to even start informal `Political talks` with the leadership of the NSCN (K), things would not have happened as we have seen today. Then, suddenly, everyone including some leaders from Nagaland started questioning why the NSCN (K) should enter into ceasefire with Myanmar government while maintaining with India.

From all the angles and after carefully listening to the two-day discussions on the Naga political issue on the Floor of the Nagaland Assembly on July 23 and 24, it is very clear that the Prime Minister or the Interlocutor to Center-Naga political talks had actually disclosed their minds towards the settlement of the Naga political issue.

When the Prime Minister told the 19-Member PWC from Nagaland that `If I give you 80% of your demand, it doesn`™t mean I am not giving you remaining 20%,` everyone was perhaps caught napping.

The fact is the State Government of Nagaland still decides to remain as `facilitator` – meaning not a real player in the process. This also indicates that the 60 legislators are not a party to the `Talks` between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM). Why 60 legislators because the present Government in Nagaland is all-party Government or Opposition-less Government. Then the question comes that if they are not a party to the `Talks,` then will they have rights to interfere into the process or even asking parties in `Talks` to make their `Charter of Demands` public. The danger is what will they say when the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) take a final decision to resolve the issue. In this case, the State of Nagaland will be only a mere audience to the show.

Knowing this hindrance, Interlocutor Ravi was reported to have told the 19-Member PWC from Nagaland that they should `take up their role higher than the facilitator.` He also said, `What is possible; tell us, we will work together.`

Yet, once the final decision on the settlement on the Naga issue is taken, the Parliament will start discussing on it before approving it and what will the State of Nagaland do at this point of time? The Parliament will revisit the Article 371A for sure for discussion and probably, this process in the Parliament will open up even the 16-Point Agreement as to how it was entered into.

Will the Members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly accept if the Parliament attempts to undo the Article 371A, which was inserted to the Constitution of India after the Parliament enacted the State of Nagaland Act, 1962, in their endeavor to settle the Naga issue? The Parliament will definitely examine Article 371A and may move for Amendment of Article 371A or some Clauses may be added in the Article 371A or dilute some of them. They may try to give certain economic packages to various Naga areas but not before diluting the existing Article 371A. The fear is some of the Clauses in the Article 371A which give unique power to the people of Nagaland may be diluted and that will be a great handicap to the Naga people particularly the Nagas of Nagaland.

Interestingly, the Nagaland State has survived 52 years, while Delhi continues to engage in talks with leaders of Naga political groups to find settlement to the Naga issue. The Naga sovereignty has been fundamental to the Naga political movement and the Article 371A was for making Nagaland as a full-fledged Statehood.

So, if one clearly examines the two things, the Article 371A has, precisely, got nothing to do with the Naga political issue, as the Center has been persistently engaged in ceasefires with various Naga political groups and holding talks with them to find solution to the Naga issue. Surprisingly, the Naga underground groups generally observe the `Naga Independence Day Celebrations` every year on August 14 and strangely, all these activities happened without much obstruction from the Government side.

These complexities and dangers are noticed by Delhi as they had seen why the Naga issue still remains unresolved even after 16-Point Agreement of 1960 or why the Shillong Accord of 1975 invited more bloodshed among the Nagas. That is why Ravi has wisely informed the 19-Members PWC of Nagaland at Delhi that the State government should play more than a `facilitator,` indicating that they should be part of the process because any settlement which is to be arrived at will be for all of them. Otherwise, his fear is that another piecemeal solution will again come and that he does not favor as it will only be a vicious circle. So he has told the Members of the PWC at Delhi that any solution `should be comprehensive and not a piecemeal solution` and the process should be with `inclusive approach keeping in mind the basic Naga ethos, Naga cultures and Naga traditional systems.`

Some Members, while taking part in the discussion on the Naga issue, have also pointed out on why they should not have another 16-Point Agreement. They have pointed out that though it was good enough for them, the Nagas have not agreed to because 16-Point Agreement was signed without consulting with the Naga national group. That is why the Naga issue still defies solution and the Agreement fails to solve the problem till date.

Another Member said the Agreements, Truces, done in the past were the best ones happened at that point of time, though the solution to Naga issue still remained elusive. He was saying that the present Naga leaders should have more refined approach with the experiences they had from the past political events towards finding solution to the issue.

Bottom Line:

But I honestly feel why the solution to the 68-year old Naga political issue (some says 86 years old counting from the day Naga leaders submitted a Memorandum to the Simon Commission) still remains elusive is because their approach to solution was not with 100% attempts. Can we explain to the Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi that attempting with 80% for finding solution to issue which is as old as Indian`™s Independence will only be a piecemeal solution as Interlocutor Ravi has already explained as proven from the past experiences?

Somebody in Nagaland keeps saying PM Modi has guts to solve the Naga issue. I personally feel that `guts` will not solve Naga issue. What is lacking in the leadership of the country is their `love, care, and concern for the people in the region and also wisdom and diplomacy.`

Dear Prime Minister Modi, please learn lessons from your British counterpart David Cameron and former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown whose genuine love, care and concern shown to Scots while speaking to them (Scots) on the eve of the historic `Scottish Independence Referendum, 2014` saved the `United Kingdom` from fragmentation.

State pays fitting tributes to martyrs on Kargil Vijay Diwas observation

IMPHAL, July 26: As in others part of the country, the `Kargil Vijay Diwas 2015`™ was observed at the Banquet Hall of 1st MR today in honour of the brave

IMPHAL, July 26: As in others part of the country, the `Kargil Vijay Diwas 2015`™ was observed at the Banquet Hall of 1st MR today in honour of the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives fighting against the Pakistani intruders in 1999.

Speaking at the observance function as chief guest, Chief Minister O Ibobi said that the Kargil Bijoy Diwas has been observed to commemorate the Operation Vijay of 1999 in which a large number of armed Pakistani intruders were flushed out by the brave Indian soldiers from its territory.

He asserted that the people are well aware why the Kargil War between India and Pakistan broke out and how India bravely won the war though many soldiers lost their lives fighting against the Pakistani intruders.

The CM recalled that seven soldiers from the state namely Lance Nike Kuleshor from Imphal East, Sipoy Charles Nicolas Moyon from Chandel, Sipoy Beningvir Moyon from Chandel, Lance Naik Birneithang from Chnadel, Sipoy Zamkholai Vaiphei from Churachandpur, Sepoy Kapani Asuli from Senapati and Sipoy Daikho Mao from Senapati were amongst the heroes who sacrificed their lives in the war.

Stating that the seven brave soldiers from the state have found their place in the history of martyrs of the country, he said that the people of the state should always remember the undeniable sacrifice made by the soldiers born in the state which is known for bravery and perseverance.

The CM called upon the people to jointly safeguard the territorial integrity of the country from any external threat.

Deputy CM Gaikhangam who presided over the function hailed the immense bravery shown by Indian soldiers in the Kargil War in which a large number of Pakistani intruders were flushed out from the Indian soil.

He acknowledged that the state of Manipur is always in the lead not only in sports, art & culture but also in safeguarding the territorial integrity.

Maintaining that the Kargil martyrs will be always remembered by the people of the country for their sacrifices for the sake of the motherland, the Dy CM called upon the people to collectively safeguard the integrity and identity of the country.

Several high ranking government officials were also present at the observance function.

BJP Manipur Pradesh also observed the Kargil Vijay Diwas at its office wherein president of the party Th Choaba and several other office bearers attended.

During the function, the dignitaries paid floral tributes to the portrait of the seven brave soldiers from the state, who laid down their lives in the war.

Speaking on the occasion, Chaoba said that the Indian soldiers fought the Pakistani intruders with courage and bravery which led to the victory in the war.

He also said that the seven state soldiers who lost their lives in the infamous war will be always remembered by the people.

The observance function was also attended by the vice-president of BJP Manipur Pradesh Dr RK Ranjan; Md AR Khan; I Mangiton; core committee member Prof S Tiken; spokesperson RK Shivachandra; president of BJP Yuva Morcha O Malesh; media general secretary L Basanta Sharma; president of Mahila Morcha RK Pramodini; general secretary organisation of Mahila Morcha L Bobby Devi and several other leaders of the party.

Mapithel Dam blockage creates miseries for villagers

IMPHAL, July 26: The onset of monsoon and subsequent blocking of the Mapithel dam has unfolded more miseries for settlements in both the upstream and downstream area off late. After

IMPHAL, July 26: The onset of monsoon and subsequent blocking of the Mapithel dam has unfolded more miseries for settlements in both the upstream and downstream area off late.

After engulfing Chadong village, resulting in an involuntary displacement of many household, the Louphung Tangkhul and Nongdam Kuki villages that had already been re-settled on the eastern side of the reservoir has been reportedly asked to shift again to safer places.

In addition to that the villagers at the immediate downstream are spending sleepless night following the seepage from earth dam since the past few days. Fearing that the dam will collapse these villagers had set up relief camps to spend night rather than their homestead.

Louphung Tangkhul and Nongdam Kuki villages were completely displaced in 1991 after payment of mere 3000-10,000 rupees per family.

As an immediate measure, the two villages re-settled nearby the dam site with the help of the authority concerned who reportedly provided GI sheets, tarpaulin etc for the temporary settlements.

Moreover, they were also reportedly assured with maximum rehabilitation package.

However, the villagers strongly felt that they have been betrayed by the Government.

According to Kh Vareingam, village secretary of Louphung, the two villages were amongst the first villages to have been displaced by the construction of the dam and their original location of the villages sits at the bottom of the reservoir.

Despite having re-settled without zero resistance for 24 years they asked to vacate from their places for their settlement areas lies in the sinking zone (about 40-50 metres away from the Dam reservoir).

Moreover, they also deplored the step-motherly treatment meted against with regards to rehabilitation and resettlement packages when compared to other villages which technically is in the list of submerged and displace area.

He said that so far the Government had provided with a little over two lakhs rupees per family as higher relief till 2007 when other villagers under the same category (submerged and displace) are getting over 15 Lakhs rupees under Rehabilitation and Re-settlement package which included enlisting every 18 years of a family as separate family.

`We fully co-operated with the Government and never resisted or confronted since the beginning of the project yet in return they deceived us`, lamented Vareingam.

Other villages included in the list of submerged villages (upstream) included Lamlai Khunou, Lamlai Mongbung, Chadong, Lamali Khullen and Phayang.

Unfortunately, Phayang (having around 23 household) and Lamlai Mongbung (having around 86 household) unlike the other villages could not re-settle and extinct today since the displacement and coupled with the Kuki-Naga ethnic clash.

Leaving aside the disparity in the RR package of the Mapithel dam, many right activists are surprised and questioned by the definition of the affected area under the RR package.

It has been brought to notice that four villages including Maphou Kuki, Nongdam Kuki, Nondam Kuki and Bethelphai villages which have been buried by the earth dam were not provided with any rehabilitation packages as they were not categorised in the list of displace/submerged villages due to the construction of the dam.

Similarly, the settlements in the downstream are also demanding for `Special Economic Rehabilitation Package`.

Meanwhile, to take the stock of the situation a team of AMUCO led by its president Mani Kuman, visited the area and interacted with the villages.

Drawing the attention Government with regards to the plight of the affected villages, the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) had urged the Cabinet to approve and take up necessary with regards to the grievances of the people within 30 days time.

BJP submits recommendations to Drafting Committee on enactment of new bill

IMPHAL, July 26: The burning ILP issue can be addressed and resolved within the state itself by passing an ordinance through the State legislature as an immediate measure after taking

IMPHAL, July 26: The burning ILP issue can be addressed and resolved within the state itself by passing an ordinance through the State legislature as an immediate measure after taking Governor`™s assent without infringing the Constitution of India considering the gravity of situation and raging people`™s demand for immediate introduction of ILPS in the state, president of BJP Manipur Pradesh Th Chaoba has stated.

He was addressing media persons at the office of the party located at Nityapat Chuthek here today.

Chaoba informed that a high level committee formed by the party members have drafted and submitted a set of suggestion on the proposed drafting of a new bill to the State Law Minister-led Drafting Committee constituted by the government in the wake of public outcry over the demand for enactment of a new bill to check the incessant influx of outsiders into the state.

The suggestions from the side of the party on the proposed enactment of a new bill acceptable to the people was submitted to the Drafting Committee today after having a thorough consideration during a meeting of the core committee of the party, he added.

He said that the people`™s demand for enactment of a fresh bill can be met in the state level without reaching the Parliament, which would be a time consuming to pass the proposed bill.

However, Chaoba declined to respond when asked whether the party would extend winning support to lobby the Central Government to pass the proposed bill if the new bill incorporates the five points recommended by JCILPS that excludes deportation of non-locals who resided in Manipur after 1951 though he said that the matter can only be said when time comes.

Referring to the proposed enactment of a new bill which is the collective wishes of the people, he said that it is permissible under the State concurrent list which will simply regulate the influx of non-local by establishing a competent authority and imposing certain conditions in selling or buying of land to non-residents.

The president of BJP Manipur Pradesh asserted that the party`™s suggestions include the clause of `public order`™, `land`™ and `peace & good governance`™ in the interest of the local population including the Schedule Tribe to suggest the government to implement a comprehensive regulation within the ambit of the Indian Constitution.

The press conference was also attended by party vice-president Prof S Tiken; spokesperson RK Ranjan and RK Shivachandra and media state general secretary L Basanta Sharma.

Seminar on ILP System and Mass Movement in Manipur held

IMPHAL, July 26: The United Development Association, (UDA), Khangabok organised a one-day seminar on `ILP System and Mass Movement in Manipur`™ today at Manipur Press Club with president of AMBA

IMPHAL, July 26: The United Development Association, (UDA), Khangabok organised a one-day seminar on `ILP System and Mass Movement in Manipur`™ today at Manipur Press Club with president of AMBA Senior Advocate Khaidem Mani attending as moderator.

Editor of Naharolgi Thoudang Kh Loyalakpa; retired MU Professor A Lokendra Singh and social scientist Dhanabir Laishram acted as speakers on the topic.

Addressing the gathering, Professor A Lokendra Singh stated that the ILP issue does not crop up suddenly as it is related to the existence of the Foreign Department during the rule of King, which used to monitor the influx of outsiders into the state.

He recalled that the department used to give permit to the outsiders for a certain period and recover tax from them.

When democratic constitution of Manipur was drafted, Hamant Singh who was the first Chief Commissioner of the state dissolved the permit system, he claimed.

Dhanabir Laishram said that all the educational institutions in Greater Imphal were closed down by an order of the government in view of the tense situation following the death of a student during a protest staged demanding implementation of Inner Line Permit System in the state.

He also said that normal class in the educational institutions should be resumed at the earliest otherwise students may resort to launch agitation which in turn will further deteriorate law and order situation.

The government should tackle the participation of students in ILPS movement in appropriate manner and ensure that their education is not affected at any cost.

Shyamkumar peeved by govt delay in initiating action in student killing case

IMPHAL, July 26: Andro MLA Th Shyamkumar today alleged that the government is playing foul and trying to divert the people`™s attention from the raging issue of demand for the

IMPHAL, July 26: Andro MLA Th Shyamkumar today alleged that the government is playing foul and trying to divert the people`™s attention from the raging issue of demand for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit System in Manipur.

The MLA regretted that the government is only now conceding to the demand for instituting a judicial inquiry into the death of a 16 year old student, Sapam Robinhood, after facing agitation on the streets, and not before, exercising its good judgment.

He said that the situation with regards to the demand for ILPS got beyond a point of no return only after the killing of a protester Sapam Robinhood. Thereafter, he said it was the State Home Department which messed everything up with its drama, confusing the people.

Shyamkuamr further said that on the faithful afternoon of July 8, the student agitators were taking out a peaceful rally though amid the prohibitive orders of CrPC 144 issued by the district magistrate. This being the case, he had said that the police personnel had orders to take action to control the mob, he said.

If this statement hurt any civil society body, he said he would willingly tender his apology for he did not mean to hurt anybody`™s sentiment.

He said instead of carrying out their orders normally, the police personnel used extreme measures and shot tear gas shells, rubber bullets and mock bombs directly at the crowd. Unfortunately, police action resulted in Sapam Robinhood shot dead.

He said the State Home Minister in a statement in the Assembly, clearly mentioned there was no fault of the police in the incident and no action would be initiated for the death of Robinhood.

However, now the State Government has decided to conduct a judicial inquiry into the killing of Robinhood.

The question is that why did the State Government not take any positive step immediately instead of waiting for the public to take to the streets, asked Shyamkumar.

AMCTA to join nation-wide cease work strike

IMPHAL, July 26: The All Manipur College Teachers`™ Association (AMCTA) has expressed their condolence on the death of Sapam Robinhood who died in the hands of the police during the

IMPHAL, July 26: The All Manipur College Teachers`™ Association (AMCTA) has expressed their condolence on the death of Sapam Robinhood who died in the hands of the police during the struggle for implementation of ILPS in the state and also condemned the barbaric action of the police as well during an emergency meeting held on July 26.

According to a release of AMCTA, the association demanded punishment to be given to the police personnel involved in the incident and inclusion of all the points rtecommended by JCILPS in the proposed new Bill.

AMCTA also demanded reopening of all schools and colleges in all greater Imphal areas at the earliest and fulfillment of the demands made by the association regarding the fresh notification of Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) and to terminate appointments of irregular Principals, it said.

The unit colleges of the association under the government will also join in the Nation Wide Cease Work Strike called by All India Federation of University and College Teachers`™ Organisation (AIFUCTO) from August 7. A team led by President of AMCTA, M. Lokendro Singh will also take part in the hunger strike of Office Bearers to be carried out at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi from August 7 onwards, it said.

The demands of the AIFUCTO are immediate constitution of VII Pay Review Committee, AHRD approval of UGC decisions on 3rd Amendments of UGC Regulations-2010 and Ph.D Regulations 2009, Minister-HRD appointment to AIFUCTO-FEDCUTA to discuss the long standing professional demands, Scrapping of API, Roll backed choice based Credit system and CU Bill 2013, extend dates for RC and OC upto December 2015, UGC Pay Scales for all Categories of Teachers, Stop commercialisation of higher education, reject Pension Scheme-2004 and Consult Teachers`™ organisations on Education policies, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/amcta-to-join-nationwide-cease-work-strike/

Smaller states demanding groups to hold national seminar

IMPHAL, July 26: A national seminar on `Perspective and Realization on the Issues of Smaller States in India`™ will be held in New Delhi on August 11, which will be

IMPHAL, July 26: A national seminar on `Perspective and Realization on the Issues of Smaller States in India`™ will be held in New Delhi on August 11, which will be attended by more than 1000 participants including all the stake holders of the smaller states demanding groups, heavy weight politicians, noted activists, scholars, eminent writers and academicians of the country.

The seminar is to be jointly organised by All Bodo Students`™ Union (ABSU); Peoples`™ Joint Action Committee for Boroland Movement (PJACBM); Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC); National Federation for New States (NFNS); Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh (BGP); Vidarbha Rajya Agdhi (VIRRA); Indigenous People`™s Front Tripura (IPTF) and Dimasa People`™s Council (DPC).

A joint press release of the organizations stated that the seminar is to be organised in order to collectively consult on perspectives, challenges and realization on smaller states issue of India by proving a common platform to widely exchange ideas, views, opinions, suggestions, recommendations and to cooperate in finding effective and meaningful pathways and strategies for contributions towards finding solutions over the national issue.

The successive Government of India, particularly the NDA Government considering the peoples`™ genuine aspirations and legitimacy took bold historic political decisions and created three new states namely Jharkhand, Uttarakhand and Chattisgarh in the year 2000 which have sent a positive signal to other smaller states demanding groups across the country, it said.

The NDA Government which envisioned first that with the creations of smaller states in the country the faster growth and development in all fronts could be achieved is back to power with the promises of faster growth and development, protection of identity and culture, proportionate distribution and utilization of resources, removal of regional disparity, social justice and equal dignity, redesigning the country with creating rationally smaller states etc.

So as a major stake holders of the smaller state demanding groups do strongly feel that it is the right time to renew the legitimate demands and carry out peaceful democratic exercises to remind the present NDA Govt to take favourable and time bound appropriate steps to fulfil our longstanding continued demands of smaller states, said the press release.

Mapithel dam : Chadong Village submerges under water

Chadong Villagers witness submergence of their village along with all its priceless identities and history. The government`s developmental design has created another island in the State by submerging the erstwhile fertile plains of village of Chadong. It is a classical case where the woes of the affected people are completely ignored by the State, imposing its policy by hoodwinking some people with compensation and militarizing the area to continue with its `anti-people` project.

Absconding Churachandpur serial rape accused arrested

LAMKA, July 25: Timothy Changsan, charged of raping several girls staying in a boarding home run by him and who had failed to turn up to a court summon while

LAMKA, July 25: Timothy Changsan, charged of raping several girls staying in a boarding home run by him and who had failed to turn up to a court summon while on bail was arrested by the concern police last night from Tuibuang, according to sources.

Timothy who was charged under POCSO Act was surprisingly managed to get a bail in just 92 days after his first arrest, although the Act provides that an accused cannot be provided bail for 180 days that too only if the police fail to file a chargesheet against him.

However, in this particular case the police had already filed a chargesheet against him five days before his release on bail.

The bail was later stayed by the Manipur High Court and had set July 17 for the accused`™s appearance, which the accused failed to obey.

Meanwhile, it is also learnt that the police were unable to produce him in court as he was arrested late in the evening and that the accused has been transported to Imphal last night itself.

NEC discusses human resource development

IMPHAL, July 25: The North Eastern Council (NEC) Secretariat, Nongrim Hills, Shillong has said that a Regional review meeting on Human Resource Development and Employment was held on July 24

IMPHAL, July 25: The North Eastern Council (NEC) Secretariat, Nongrim Hills, Shillong has said that a Regional review meeting on Human Resource Development and Employment was held on July 24 under the Chairmanship of , IES Economic Advisor & i/c Planning Advisor, W.Synrem.

According to a release of the NEC, the meeting was attended by the concerned senior officers of NEC secretariat and the senior officers of Planning and line Departments of NE states.

The meeting discussed the need to formulate a regional plan on Education and Skill development, it said.

The need for establishment of a skill development institute in the region was felt by the member states to fulfill the skilling India mission of the government of India, it said.

The statement continued, concern was expressed by members present that the literacy rate in the region is high but the employability is low due to lack of required skill for employment. Therefore, the focus needs to be given for employment oriented skill training to NE youths, it said.

The issue of migration of NE students to metro and other cities was also discussed. To contain the migration, the participants were of the view that the region needs to have better quality schools and colleges as well as centres of excellence with state of the art facilities for skill development and education, it said.

In order to improve the prospects of more students from the region getting enrolled for technical and professional courses, the need to improve the quality of teachers especially in Mathematics and Science was also emphasised. It was also agreed that a special focus and new thrust on skill development, improvement of quality of education and infrastructure development are urgently required for ensuring a better quality of life for the people of the region.

The action plan to be taken up in the near future for Skill Development, Training and infrastructure development in Education, Social sector and other related issue in the field Human Resource Development & Employment was also discussed during the meeting, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/nec-discusses-human-resource-development/

Komlathabi PHC will be upgraded to open 24×7 soon: Phungzathang

IMPHAL, July 25: Inaugurating the Komlathabi Primary Health Centre in Chandel district today, State Health minister Phungzathang Tonsing said the PHC will soon be upgraded to open 24×7. The centre,

IMPHAL, July 25: Inaugurating the Komlathabi Primary Health Centre in Chandel district today, State Health minister Phungzathang Tonsing said the PHC will soon be upgraded to open 24×7.

The centre, he said is an important one because it covers villages which are under the jurisdiction of eight different Primary Health sub-Centres.

The Health minister said he will pressurise the State government to provide an ambulance for Komlathabi PHC.

He further added that although the centre is under the jurisdiction of Chandel district, it is located in the valley part of the State.

He further urged its employees to work with dedication and attend office on a regular basis to provide service for the people.

Elaborating on the history of the centre, Phungzathang said it was established in 1979 as a sub-centre and upgraded to a PHC only in 2011 under the guidance and suggestion of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh.

He continued construction of the PHC building was completed at a cost of Rs 2 crores sanctioned from the State budget in 2011.

The campus also includes Type I, III and staff quarters, he said.

However, due to the financial constrains faced by the State government, only Rs 1 crore has been sanctioned for the construction of the main building.

The minister also assured to soon add child delivery facilities in the PHC soon following a consultation with the Health director.

The government is considerate to the needs of the people and is trying to provide medical facilities for all villages and localities.

Phungzathang also said that all district hospitals have been upgraded to 100 bedded from 50-bedded for which the government has upgraded Rs 2 crores each.

Health director Dr O Ibomcha who is also the director of State Health Mission and NRHM said the government is trying to provide child delivery facilities in all district hospitals so that the congestion in RIMS and JNIMS could somehow be reduced.

There is also a drive to upgade all PHCs in the State to open 24×7 and is currently targeting more fund from the 14th Finance Commission, he continued.

There are now atlest 40 PHCs left to be upgraded out of 85 centres.

The inaugural function was also attended by Tengnoupal MLA D Karungthang, Chandel DC Robert Kshetrimayum, CMO, Chandel Dr Romy Ngoru and Upa R Jindashing village chief of Komlakhong (Kapaam).

Education in Chadong hit hard as water level rises

IMPHAL, July 25: As the level of the artificial water body which is slowly submerging Chadong and other villages continues to rise since the Thoubal River water was blocked in

IMPHAL, July 25: As the level of the artificial water body which is slowly submerging Chadong and other villages continues to rise since the Thoubal River water was blocked in January, education has been hard hit in the area.

A school building which is already constructed under RMSA, but yet to be inaugurated has also been submerged in the water.

Families in Chadong Village who have been refusing to shift or be shifted from their village until the Rehabilitation and Resettlement package of the government is reviewed expressed that the school going children have either been displaced or discontinued going to school.

The United Christian Academy in Riha Village which had more than 700 students when it first opened in 2003 has been left with only 32 students now, according to the villagers.

The school, they recounted was set up by five Chadong Villager to promote education in the surrounding villages.

The number of students began to dwindle after the closure of the river water which led to the rise in water level, they claimed.

Ningkham Kasum a teacher of the school said the whole school building and its compound will be submerged soon and a thin number of students are presently accommodated at a temporary shed higher up in the hills.

He said ever since the dam construction began, there has been much apprehension among the villagers.

`Even though I am a teacher,` he said he can do not much other than wait and watch.

On the other hand visitors from Ukhrul and other parts of the valley districts continue to roam as if visiting a tourist spot.

The surrounding villagers had recently banned people from thronging the area as tourists.

SPDPO warns stir

IMPHAL, July 27: State Platform of Disable People Organisation (SPDPO) has warned of launching intense agitation in case the government fails to implement various schemes for differently abled persons of

Addressing a press meet at Manipur Press Club today, president of SPDPO Dr Sapam Jasobanta said that the government spoke well for the welfare of differently abled persons in newspapers and functions but their assurances remained only in words.

He lamented that the government has been neglecting differently abled persons of the state by depriving various schemes meant for them.

He pointed out that the State Disability Commissioner Office is lying defunct even though it was established long time back solely for the welfare of differently abled persons of the state.

The government has not taken up any necessary action regarding the alleged raped of a minor differently abled girl by her neighbour identified as Chongtham Rohit alias Ronal on July 1. The inaction of the government in the case is a clear indication that differently abled persons are being neglected by the government, the president of SPDPO said.

He also expressed discontentment over the incident in which LW Gainson, a differently abled person who works as a newspaper hawker suffered injuries after he was hit by stone allegedly pelted by ILP agitators at Lamlai Chalou while returning home from Imphal on his tri-cycle on July 20.

Saying that no one came to ask the health condition of Gaison following the unfortunate incident, he reminded that differently abled persons have been actively taking part in important state issues including ILPS .

Vice-president of SPDPO Th Jonshon who was also present at the meet demanded the government to release money for the beneficiaries of Marriage Incentive Awards of 2013, Financial Assistance 2014, and other schemes meant for disabled people of the state failing which the organization will launch intense agitation.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/spdpo-warns-stir/

Auto-rickshaws to stay off roads on July 27 in support of ILPS movement

IMPHAL, July 25: Endorsing the ongoing mass agitation demanding enforcement of Inner Line Permit System in the state, Joint Administrative Council for Auto Societies Association (JACASN), Imphal City will stage

Announcing this in a press meet at Manipur Press Club here today, convener of JACASN L Somorendro Singh declared that the association will launch different forms of democratic agitation till an acceptable bill to check the alarming influx of non-locals into the State is passed by the government and stringent action is taken up against those police personnel involved in the death of Sapam Robinhood.

He informed that passenger auto-rickshaws will stay off the road on July 27 and appealed to other passenger service associations to halt their services on the day in solidarity to the ongoing mass movement spearheaded by JCILPS.

He also requested clubs, women folk and students`™ associations to extend support to the proposed agitation of the association.

Any individual found defying the call of the association on the day should take the sole responsibility if any untoward incidents happens thereof, he cautioned.

Meanwhile, agitations demanding the ILPS in the State continued at several localities.

Sit in protests were organised in connection to the movement at Lourembam, Tera Keithel, Uripok, while Aripat Meira paibis demonstrated at Pechi Chingolak by forming a human chain.

The Dingku Road block imposed by the JAC formed in connection to the death of Sapam Robinhood also continued.

During the protest demonstrations, the agitators raised slogans demanding implementation of the ILPS or a similar law in the State and punishment for the police personnel involved in the death of the class XI student Sapam Robinhood.

Meanwhile, the Manipur Students` Association Delhi has informed that it will be organising a mass rally in Delhi from Mandi House to Jantar Mantar on July 27 to express `resistance against the State policy of Demographic Invasion, and to protest the brutality of State Force in suppressing Democratic Movement in Manipur.`

Gov orders inquiry into Robinhood`s death

IMPHAL, July 25: The Governor has appointed a Commission of Inquiry consisting of a single Member namely Justice Mutum Binoykumar Singh, former Judge of Gauhati High Court to inquire into

IMPHAL, July 25: The Governor has appointed a Commission of Inquiry consisting of a single Member namely Justice Mutum Binoykumar Singh, former Judge of Gauhati High Court to inquire into the death of Sapam Robinhood who died after sustaining injury during police action on July 8 last.

According to an order issued by the joint secretary (Home), the terms of reference of the commission will be to enquire into the causes and circumstances leading to the death of Sapam Robinhood; to enquire whether there are any excesses or lapses on the part of security personnel on duty and identify such lapses or excesses and to recommend corrective measures and remedies to prevent recurrence of such incident in future.

The Commission will complete its inquiry and submit its report within three months from the date of issue of the notification.

The Governor in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 5 of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952 also directed that all the provisions of sub-section (2), (3), (4) and (5) of Section 5 of the said Act shall apply to the Commission, the order said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/gov-orders-inquiry-into-robinhoods-death/

`Govt has been delaying ADC formation`

IMPHAL July 25: The Manipur Government has been delaying formation of Autonomous District Councils in the six ADCs till date without any reasonable explanation, alleged the chairman designate of Ukhrul Autonomous District Council, Dr Yaronsho Ngalung during a press meet at the Manipur Press Club today.

He appealed to the government to positively respond and invite the parties to form the councils in the respective ADCs without further delay.

`In the interest of the hill people I urge the government to show some support in reestablishing the ADCs again and translate all the pre election promises into action` he appealed.

It might be mentioned that despite declaring the ADC election results on June 10, the oath taking ceremony was delayed till July 13.

Further even after the oath taking for the members who were absent during the original oath taking ceremony was held in Imphal yesterday instead of their respective ADCs, the government is yet to announce further course and the newly elected ADC members are still left defunct without any further directive from the government.

In this connection, Naga Peoples Front has also issued an ultimatum to the State government to facilitate the formation of ADC in the six ADC by 25 of July.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/govt-has-been-delaying-adc-formation/

History of the Inner Line system

History of the Inner Line system By Pradip Phanjoubam The following article is a summary of three articles the author wrote on the current agitation for the introduction of the

History of the Inner Line system
By Pradip Phanjoubam

The following article is a summary of three articles the author wrote on the current agitation for the introduction of the ILP. Two of these were for the new and critically acclaimed web journal, The Wire, started jointly by former editor The Hindu, Siddharth Varadarajan and former editor Daily News and Analysis, Sidharth Bhatia. The third written was written for another new web journal, Catch News, started by former editor Hindustan Times, Bharat Bhushan and former editor Tehelka editor Shoma Choudhury.

Under pressure from unrelenting violent street protests in the state, the Manipur government has withdrawn the Manipur Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill, 2015 passed earlier by the State Assembly, but which was awaiting the assent of the state Governor Syed Ahmed. With this the Manipur government has bought itself some time and the street agitations have been suspended to give the government the room to come with another law to effectively regulate inflow of migrants into the state.

In a meeting with the media recently, the Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi said another Bill is currently under preparation, and for the purpose wide consultations with experts from various fields are being held. While the state breathes a sigh of relief, it would be pertinent to scan through the history of the demand for the introduction of the Inner Line System in Manipur, as well as the history of the ILPS itself.

A culture of violent agitations

Manipur land administration is as per the provisions of the Manipur Land Reform and Land Revenue Act, 1960, a legislation with a Union Government vintage as it was passed while Manipur was still a Union Territory. The state formally joined the Indian Union only on October 21, 1949 after the then king, Bodhchandra Singh, signed the Manipur Merger Agreement under controversial circumstances while he was under arrest in Shillong, the then capital of Assam, where he had gone for some work.

Manipur was one of the many princely states which resisted merger with India, and when finally it was absorbed into the Union, it was not as a full-fledged state but as a Part-C state, with a status even lower than a Union territory. The speculated reasons for this are many. These include making the state feel insignificant to knock out cold the rebelliousness in it. However, protests after protests with increasing tendencies towards violence, resulted in upgrades of its political status in bits and pieces, until in 1972, it was awarded full statehood. But the belief that only violent protests can make the Union take notice had already been conditioned among local citizens, as R. Constantine notes in his book `Manipur: Maid of the Mountains`. This is also one of contemporary Manipur`™s many tragedies.

The MLR&LR Act 1960 covers only the 2000 sq km central Imphal valley. The hills, which form nearly 90 percent of the state`™s territory, except in pockets, are left out of the purview of this Act to be administered under customary land laws of the communities inhabiting them.

This has also meant legal land ownership transfers can happen only in the fertile valley, which has led to continued shrinking of living space with each passing year. Moreover, though the valley is only 10 percent of land area of the state, more than 60 percent of the state`™s population today is concentrated in it. The topography as well as the population distribution pattern has also skewed the development drives, with much of the developmental funds of the state remaining in the valley area, in particular the capital Imphal.

The consequence today is a sharp divide between the hills and the valley, but this is not all, for there is also a pronounced urban-rural divide. In old colloquial Manipuri, the word for `urban` had come to be `Imphal`, making this rural-urban divide to virtually be in a nuanced but antagonistic way, a binary between Imphal and the rural hinterlands.

Not just in the ongoing street agitations, but in many past unrests in the state, these fissures were visible, and often very pronouncedly. On the need for the introduction of a regulatory mechanism to prevent the ultimate marginalisation of the local population, there is a wide consensus cutting across the state`™s geographical regions. But this need is felt most in Imphal and the other valley districts, for land ownership transfers to outsiders, as it is, are prohibited in the hills.

The Inner Line trouble

The ILPS demand in the valley areas of Manipur has as its driving force a xenophobic fear shared by practically the whole of Northeast India `“ and indeed the larger region encompassing neighbouring Myanmar and Tibet `“ that small indigenous populations are under threat of being pushed to the margins of their own lands by settlers.

The six-year-long `anti-foreigner` agitation in Assam in the late 1970s and early 1980s, which resulted in the cataclysmic Nellie Massacre in 1983; the current Bodo trouble in Assam marked by periodic murderous ethnic clashes; the recent lynching in Dimapur, Nagaland; the expulsion of Nepalis from Bhutan in the 1980s, are all different manifestations of this same xenophobia. Like Manipur, Meghalaya too is demanding the introduction of the ILPS. There have also been demands that the entire Northeast region be put under inner line protection.

The Rohingya tragedy in Myanmar`™s Rakhine state, which neighbours Bangladesh, as much as the Tibetans`™ charge that they have already been reduced to a minority in their own country by the unending influx of Han Chinese, are also an articulation of similar existential angst. Myanmar has brazenly declared that it considers the Rohingyas to be Bangladeshi immigrants.

Agitators in Manipur cite the examples of Tripura and Sikkim to justify their fear of being swamped by outsiders. Tripura is a Bengali state today, and the original Tripuris are in a hopeless minority in their former kingdom. Sikkim, similarly, is a Nepali state and the original populations of Lepchas and Bhutias have been pushed to the margins, needing reservation to remain represented in the government.

In May this year, the Manipur government yielded somewhat to public pressure and introduced the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill, 2015 in the Assembly. However, the joint committee of the ILPS demand called this a sell-out, claiming the draft does not provide the kind of protection that the ILPS guarantees. In any case, the Bill has been reserved by Manipur Governor Syed Ahmed, putting Okram Ibobi`™s Congress government in a quandary.

The history of a line

The ILPS has a curious history. It was introduced in 1873 by the British colonial administration as the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation in the then undivided province of Assam, which included practically all the states of the present day Northeast, except Manipur and Tripura, which were then independent kingdoms. The use of the word `regulation`™ was not accidental and says something about the line`™s original purpose.

As colonial historian E.A. Gait notes in A History of Assam, a Regulation is a summary legislation for `backward tracts`™ as distinct from an Act which are laws passed after discussion in the legislature. By this Regulation, then, an Inner Line was created along the base of the hills surrounding the plains of Assam, and British subjects had to get special permission from the administration to go beyond the line. In essence, the ILPS was meant to protect the British revenue districts of the Assam plains from the `wild` hillmen.

Not long after the British annexed Assam in 1826 after the First Anglo-Burmese War, this new territory, still administered from Fort William as a part of Bengal, began showing revenue potential especially after the Bruce brothers`™ discovered tea in the 1830s. Along with tea were also lucrative prospects in rubber, timber etc.

As the tea gardens expanded, planters began encroaching into the hills, bringing them into friction with the hill tribes, making it essential for the British to take out expensive punitive expeditions. The British, however, did not want to extend their administration into these hills as they believed it would not have been cost effective. Therefore, they thought it prudent to draw a line and restrict planters and other speculators from going beyond. As pressure from the planters lobby mounted, the British did push the Inner Line further into the hills on numerous occasions with simple gazette notifications, as historian Bodhisattva Kar notes in a recent essay.

Hill valley divide

In Manipur, this has been further complicated by the sharp divide, and mistrust, between the hills and the valley, where the capital Imphal is located.

The latest agitation was concentrated more or less in the four valley districts of Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal and Bishnupur, with the twin Imphal districts bearing the brunt. Reason?

Although concern over outsiders is shared across much of Manipur, the five hill districts of Tamenglong, Ukhrul, Chandel, Churachandpur and Senapati are already protected. The hills are reserved for the Schedule Tribes, so non-tribals cannot acquire land, unlike in the valley.

The valley districts, spread over 2,000 sq km, account for a tenth of Manipur`s area but over 60% of its population. And nearly all migration, from outside as well as from the hills, ultimately ends up there, increasing congestion. This sense of a shrinking space has made the valley especially sensitive to the migration issue.

In the hills, a section of the population, broadly made up of the Nagas and the Kukis, is apprehensive that the agitation over ILPS would lead to the valley dwellers, the Meiteis, being accorded the Scheduled Tribe status, to the hill folk`s detriment.

Some Meitei voices have been demanding ST status to get benefits of reservation incentives, they are far from unanimous. Many Meiteis, in fact, feel an ST status would make them government job seekers, inhibiting development of other livelihood skills in the community.

Historically, the Meiteis have been better organised and aware than the hill tribes and, therefore, dominant. This is of a pattern described by Prof James C. Scott in his acclaimed book, Art of Not Being Governed: An Anarchist History of Upland Southeast Asia.

Scott`s central argument is that in the entire Southeast Asian massif of mountainous territory punctuated by fertile river valleys – termed “Zomia” – it`s the valleys where “Paddy States” evolve. The relationship between the Paddy States and the surrounding hill populations is seldom cordial because the hill people abhor the idea of the state and are, therefore, continuously in flight from the states` reach.

Many scholars have pointed out problems in Scott`s theory, but most agree that it nonetheless provides valuable clues to understanding ethnic relations in the Zomian theatres of conflict. Manipur would qualify as one.

The state`s problem is that it has failed to adequately address the valley-hill disparity. And it isn`t all Meiteis` fault, as is often presumed. Since it became a full-fledged state in 1972, Manipur has had one Muslim and two Naga chief ministers, one for three terms. None of them did much to bridge the ethnic divisions.

This then is a rough picture of the present trouble and its causes.

In modern times

The Government of India Act, 1919, classified the territories beyond the Inner Line as “Backward Tracts”, leaving them unadministered. The Government of India Act 1935, however, split the territories into “Excluded Areas” and “Partially Excluded Areas”.

The “Excluded Areas” weren`t represented in the provincial Assam government, while representatives of the “Partially Excluded Areas” were nominated by the Governor.

The boundary of the erstwhile “Excluded Areas” is where the Inner Line still exists today – Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland. The Line`s purpose, however, has changed dramatically: it`s now basically a demarcation of protected tribal areas.

Manipur and Tripura were independent kingdoms, thus not subject to the ILPS devised by the British.

Now though, Manipur has a month to agree to the ILPS, or bring a bill modelled on it. The government had initially given itself three months to meet the demand but the Joint Committee JCILPS didn`t agree.

The government has already begun consultations with experts from various fields, including the media and the law, and held all-party meetings.

And it has already received many suggestions to resolve the impasse, one of which is a law similar to the land reform and revenue laws of two non-ST states, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. While J&K, thanks to its special Constitutional status, outright prohibits outsiders from buying land, Himachal makes it virtually impossible to acquire landed property.

As Home Minister Gaikhangam Gangmei said a few days ago, his government is making all efforts to draft a law that “kills the snake without breaking the stick”.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/history-of-the-inner-line-system/