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NORTHEAST COMMUNITY LEADERS MET UNION HOME MINISTER SHRI KIREN RIJIJU TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF CIVILIANS IN CHANDEL DISTRICT FOLLOWING THE AMBUSH AND KILLING OF 18 SECURITY FORCES IN MANIPUR

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release, 9 June 2015 NORTHEAST COMMUNITY LEADERS MET UNION HOME MINISTER SHRI KIREN RIJIJU TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF CIVILIANS IN CHANDEL DISTRICT FOLLOWING THE AMBUSH AND

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release, 9 June 2015

NORTHEAST COMMUNITY LEADERS MET UNION HOME MINISTER SHRI KIREN RIJIJU TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF CIVILIANS IN CHANDEL DISTRICT FOLLOWING THE AMBUSH AND KILLING OF 18 SECURITY FORCES IN MANIPUR

New Delhi,9th June, 2015 ~Collective delegation from the Northeast Region of India met Mr. Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State on 8th June 2015 in North Block to appeal for his immediate intervention to the recent situation in Chandel District of Manipur. The delegation strongly condemn the ambush which left 18 security forces dead and scores of others injured that belong to the Dogra Regiment and have also expressed deepest condolences to the departed Indian Armies and shares the pain and sorrow of the bereaved families.

When the delegation apprised the Minister of Home for State, Mr.Kiren Rijiju on the present crisis in Chandel district, he has given his assurance that he will act on it and convey these concerns to concerned Ministers and authorities. The Minister also added that the concerned state government must cooperate in this process and must also inform the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Defence Ministry that are being taken care of from the side of the state administration.

Keeping in view the past history of massive human rights violations during army operation, the collective leaders led by Mr David Boyes, Ms Binalakshmi Nepram, Ms Alana Golmei

and Mr Zuchamo Yanthan have submitted a memorandum demanding the following points for the safety of the innocent people in Chandel district:

(1). The presence of civil police, and women’s representation in all military combing operations.

(2). Deployment of state police including women police officers and setting up of booths in those areas to coordinate with the army while they carry out the operation.

(3). Constitution of an immediate fact finding mission with immediate effect comprising the political parties, civil workers both men and women.

(4). That the present crisis must not lead to further suffering of the civilian in the areas.

(5). Ensure for peaceful combing operation without violating human rights bearing in mind the bitter memories and experiences of Oinam village in Manipur on 11th July, 1987. (After the killing of nine soldiers by NSCN, a counter insurgency Operation Bluebird was launched in Oinam village on 11th July, 1987. During the operation, there were unimaginable massive human rights violations of rape, torture, illegal arrests and detention, burning and dismantling of homes, dismantling of schools and churches, looting of property and forced labour took placed)

(6). Ensure the involvement of women in any peace process in Northeast India. There are presently 17 ongoing peace talks in the North East. However, not a single woman is included in the process.

The meeting with Minister lasted for 45 minutes and he has assured his best possible support to safeguard the people of Chandel district, Manipur and for people of Northeast region

ENDS

CC to:

Chief Minister, Manipur
Director General Police, Manipur
North East MP Forum
Chief Secretary, Manipur

Case hearing against MPP president fixed for June 22

IMPHAL, June 9: Civil judge, senior division, Imphal West Dr Ch Shantibala Devi has today fixed the hearing of the case filed against Manipur People`™s Party president N Sovakiran Singh

IMPHAL, June 9: Civil judge, senior division, Imphal West Dr Ch Shantibala Devi has today fixed the hearing of the case filed against Manipur People`™s Party president N Sovakiran Singh for suspending three central committee members of the party against the party`™s Constitution on June 22.

The petitioners of the case are MPP central committee members Laikhuram Apabi and two others while the party president is the respondent.

According to the last hearing on the case, counsels of both the petitioners and the defendant were present in the court today. However, the counsel of the petitioners submitted more documents/ affidavits related to the case before the court after receiving prior permission.

And since it is also required for the counsel of the defendant to have knowledge of the additional affidavits and documents submitted by the counsel of the petitioners, the court decided to postpone the hearing for some more days and fixed it on June 22.

Health dept directs Food Safety Officers to check food items

IMPHAL, June 9: The Health Department has stated that as there are press reports of selling food items such as `Maggie`™ and `Baby Milk Powder of Nestle India`™ which are

IMPHAL, June 9: The Health Department has stated that as there are press reports of selling food items such as `Maggie`™ and `Baby Milk Powder of Nestle India`™ which are found to be not fit for human consumption and hazardous to health, all Food Safety Officers are directed to take up immediate surveillance and inspection works in their respective jurisdictions to check if the food items being sold in the State fulfills all the mandatory requirements prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the Food Safety and Standard Requirement Act, 2011 .

According to the official memorandum of the department, there are also reports of importing many packaged food items from Myanmar into the State by Food Business Operators and the standards and quality of such food items need to be checked and analyzed properly before consumption by the public.

The FSOs are also directed to take sample of any food items or substances which are stored for sale by the Food Business Operators in contravention of the aforesaid Act and the Regulations and take up necessary actions for sending/referring to Food Testing Laboratory for analysis for further course of action as per rules, it said.

The Food Safety Officers will submit a daily back report of actions so far taken to the Commissioner of Food Safety/Principal Secretary (Health and FW), Government of Manipur, it said.

Recovered body identified as that of KYKL cadre

IMPHAL, June 9: The body which was recovered by security forces during their ongoing combing operation in areas of Chandel district following the June 4 deadly ambush has been identified

IMPHAL, June 9: The body which was recovered by security forces during their ongoing combing operation in areas of Chandel district following the June 4 deadly ambush has been identified as a cadre of the Kanglei Yaol Kanna Lup, KYKL.

According to police source, the body is identified as that of Keisham Rajen Singh, 28, son of K Khamba Singh of Nongdren Maning Leikai under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East.

It is said that his body was recovered yesterday during the operation from Leibung Village which is about 10 km from the ambush site.

The body has been deposited at the JNIMS morgue for post mortem examination which will be conducted tomorrow.

Wars and War Mongers

After the devastation of the June 4 insurgent ambush on a 6-Dogra convoy which left 18 soldiers dead, news emanating from press conferences in New Delhi today say the Indian

After the devastation of the June 4 insurgent ambush on a 6-Dogra convoy which left 18 soldiers dead, news emanating from press conferences in New Delhi today say the Indian Army has struck back killing an unspecified number of insurgent fighters in the Indo-Myanmar border area along Manipur and Nagaland. It is not certain if the troops entered Myanmar in these operations. We do hope there has been no collateral damage caused. Even if there were none, and all killed were combatants, and even if these combatants were Myanmar domiciles, we would still be sad. Just as we cannot rejoice when Army soldiers are killed, we cannot do so when insurgent combatants are the casualties too. We have no doubt that all wars are evil, and the sooner they come to an end the better. But the sad thing is, this is unlikely to happen so soon, precisely because there are still too many war mongers left in the civil society all around. Leave aside the perpetually screaming talking heads on the TV channels, for they do no analysis except raise the decibel of public hysteria. A more meaningful way to assess this postulate is to do a scan of the opinion pages of sober mainstream newspapers. Such an exercise too would testify the existence of these war mongers.

Perhaps the term war monger is a little too blunt, for the approaches of these analysts are a lot more nuanced. They are war mongers all right, but their war mongering is disguised in intellectual sophistry. Those who have been closely following analyses on the June 4 bloody ambush and its aftermath will have noticed two broad and differing ways of looking at the carnage. One group looks at where the government policies have failed, both in the immediate as well as the longer terms in dealing with this conflict theatre. As for instance, they see with a sense of foreboding that the sudden shift in the insurgency undercurrents was triggered by the government allowing, or encouraging the conclusion of the 14 year old ceasefire it held with the Khaplang faction of the NSCN. True the government may not have done this out of any cynical intent, but so as to facilitate its peace negotiations with the other faction of the NSCN, which because their bases are chiefly on the Indian side of the border, is more important for India. Without pointing any accusative finger at the government of sinister game plans, these analysts do point out the obvious failure of judgment on the part of the government, and their alibi is the current escalation of violence and tension in this conflict theatre.

The other camp sees things quite differently. They see the solution in elimination of all resistance through military means. They coldly analyse ebbs and flows of insurgent morale by doing body counts of soldiers killed every year. They want to see a Bhutan type joint operation to exterminate the militants, both Khaplang`™s own fighters as well as the other NE militants he is giving shelter on his soil. There are however two oversights in this approach. One, in the case of the Bhutan operation against Indian militants, Bhutan`™s only stake was it also wanted to free its territory of what are India`™s war against itself, to use a phrase from Sanjib Baruah`™s book `India Against Itself`. Obviously, this camp does not see this as an `India Against Itself` situation. Unlike in Bhutan, Myanmar has been fighting its own wars against itself on many fronts, and it must be having its own strategies to resolve its problems. Indeed, the country is on ceasefire agreements with almost all its own ethnic insurgencies, although its truce with the powerful Kachins has been barely holding with violent confrontations breaking out every now and then. In any case, experience of the past half a century is proof enough that this extermination approach only complicates the problems.

Meanwhile, our prayers go out to the villagers of the affected areas of Chandel and beyond. We wish them safety. We understand how they would have been helpless even if insurgent fighters came and sought shelter in their villages, as much as they would now be helpless when Army trooper barge into their homes in their search operations. There is nothing to rejoice in this war, as so many war mongers seem to be doing. There is on the other hand, only sorrow at every single news of children, wherever they are, losing their fathers, wives their husbands, mothers their sons, sisters their brothers, in this mindless conflict.

Leader Writer: Pradip Phanjoubam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/wars-and-war-mongers/

NE community leaders meet Kiren Rijiju, appeal to ensure safety of civilians in post ambush operation

IMPHAL, June 9: A collective delegation from the Northeast Region of India met Union Minister of State, Kiren Rijiju on June 8 in North Block to appeal for his immediate

IMPHAL, June 9: A collective delegation from the Northeast Region of India met Union Minister of State, Kiren Rijiju on June 8 in North Block to appeal for his immediate intervention in the recent development in Chandel district in the aftermath of ambush on an Army convoy.

According to an emailed statement, the delegation led by David Boyes, Binalakshmi Nepram, Alana Golmei and Zuchamo Yanthan also submitted a memorandum demanding certain points for the safety of the innocent people of Chandel district.

At the same time the delegates also strongly condemned the ambush which left 18 soldiers dead and scores of others injured.

They also expressed deepest condolences to the departed Indian soldiers and shared the pain and sorrow of the bereaved families.

Meanwhile, the demands made to Ministry of State include presence of civil police, and women`™s representation in all military combing operations; deployment of state police including women police officers and setting up of booths in those areas to coordinate with the army while they carry out the operation.

Other demands include constitution of an immediate fact finding mission with immediate effect comprising the political parties, civil workers, both men and women and that the present crisis must not lead to further suffering of the civilian in the areas.

The MoS was also appealed to ensure peaceful combing operation without violating human rights bearing in mind the bitter memories and experiences of Oinam village in Manipur on July 11, 1987.

The memorandum said after the killing of nine soldiers by NSCN, a counter insurgency Operation Bluebird was launched in Oinam village on July 11, 1987.

During the operation, there were unimaginable massive human rights violations of rape, torture, illegal arrests and detention, burning and dismantling of homes, dismantling of schools and churches, looting of property and forced labour took placed), it said.

It further appealed to ensure the involvement of women in any peace process in Northeast India. There are presently 17 ongoing peace talks in the North East. However, not a single woman is included in the process, it said.

The statement also said that the Minister of Home for State, Kiren Rijiju has given his assurance that he will act on it and convey these concerns to concerned Ministers and authorities.

The Minister also added that the concerned State government must cooperate in this process and must also inform the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Defence Ministry of the steps that are being taken care of from the side of the state administration, it said.

Bishe`s innocence can be proved only after completion of police investigation: JAC

IMPHAL, June 9: The JAC formed in connection with the alleged murder of Ningthoujam Rebika has refuted the claim made by family members of Ningthoujam Bishe that he is not

IMPHAL, June 9: The JAC formed in connection with the alleged murder of Ningthoujam Rebika has refuted the claim made by family members of Ningthoujam Bishe that he is not involved in the case.

Speaking at a press meet at Manipur Press Club today, convener of the JAC Ningthoujam Ajit said that whether Bishe is guilty or not guilty should be decided only after completion of the ongoing police investigation of the case.

He termed the allegation hurled by Bishe`™s family members that people of Heirok stole household items before torching their house as baseless and untrue.

He clarified that the JAC had carried out a publicity round in the locality using loudspeakers to call out Bishe`™s family members to discuss the incident.

However, no one came out and the house was found empty, he said.

Ajit also said that yesterday`™s violence wherein the glass windshields of miister Okendro`™s car were damaged was also unfortunate.

Advisor of the JAC Mandir Laishram who was present at the meet cautioned that the JAC will resort to agitations if the government does not deliver justice on the case at the earliest.

He appealed to civil organizations and legal experts to help the JAC in delivering justice to the killing of Rebika.

He mentioned that mob justice has been taking place in the society as people are not satisfied with the kind of justice deliverance by the government.

It may be mentioned that Ningthoujam Bishe had called a press conference during which he claimed that he was not involved in the killing of Rebika.

He also said that police picked him up for interrogation following the incident but released later.

His residential house was burnt down by a mob on the day Rebika was found raped and murdered. Houses of another two individuals including the main accused identified as Tekcham Jasraj, 24 alias Yaima were also torched by the irate mob.

Fishing in Loktak Lake by using electronic device condemned

BISHNUPUR, June 9: In condemnation of the fishing practice using dynamo powered electronic device in Loktak Lake during night time, Ningthoukhong Municipal Council, Bishnupur district called a press conference at

Chairperson of Ningthoukhong Municipal Council RK Bimola; Councillor of Ningthoukhong Municipal Council M Rajen; members of the JAC Against Dynamo; All Loktak Lake Fishermen`™s Union Manipur (ALLAFUM); All Loktak lake Union; Ningthoukhong Youth Welfare Club and representatives of several organizations attended the press conference.

Addressing media persons, RK Bimola said that a complaint was lodged with the Ningthoukhong Municipal Council on June 4 by the JAC urging to restrict the practice of fishing using dynamo powered electronic device in Loktak Lake during night time which has been going on since the last three years.

She further said that such fishing practice will affect the eco-system of the Loktak Lake which is the largest freshwater lake in the entire north east India , famous for the phumdis floating over it.

Expressing concern on the rampant fishing practice using electric current in the lake, she urged the government and Loktak Development Authority to intervene into the matter and ensure that such fishing practice is stopped.

MLAs welcome ADC candidates

By Alex Guite LAMKA, June 9: Following in the steps of the Thanlon MLA Vungzagin Valte, Health minister Phungzathang Tonsing today organised a reception programme of all Autonomous District Council

By Alex Guite

LAMKA, June 9: Following in the steps of the Thanlon MLA Vungzagin Valte, Health minister Phungzathang Tonsing today organised a reception programme of all Autonomous District Council candidates from his constituency.

The Thanlon MLA had organised a similar reception programme at his residence about a week ago stating that he would work with any candidate who wins the election regardless of their party affiliation

Singat MLA Ginsuanhau also organised a similar reception for ADC candidates of his constituency.

The MLA said regardless of the outcome tomorrow, he is ready to work with whosoever wins the election.

He had also arranged a dinner for the candidates, which was skipped by some sitting MDC members.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/mlas-welcome-adc-candidates/

Army-UG outfits engaged in fierce gun-fight along Indo-Myanmar border

IMPHAL, June 9: A fierce gun-fight broke out between a combined team of underground outfits and the army this early morning along the Indo-Myanmar border in Ukhrul district.

Manipur Ambush – heavy fighting in Manipur Myanmar border

IMPHAL, June 9: A fierce gun-fight broke out between a combined team of underground outfits and the army this early morning along the Indo-Myanmar border in Ukhrul district.

The gun-fight broke out during the massive combing operation conducted by the Army in the wake of the June 4 ambush.

A PIB Defence Wing statement has also claimed of the army being engaged in clashes with separate insurgent groups along the Indo-Myanmar border at two locations today.

According to reports from the Ukhrul district Police, the fierce battle between heavily armed cadres of UG outfits and the security forces took place near Ningshom Village under Kamjong sub-division in Ukhrul district.

The encounter site is around 60 km from the Chasad Police Station towards the Myanmar border, according to the police report.

The Ukhrul District Police headquarter received information through the Chassad Police Station of the gun-fight only around 11:15am although the two sides had exchanged fire since early morning and lasted for a few hours.

However, there is no official confirmation of casualties till the filing of this report.

Meanwhile, according to a press release issued by the PIB, Ministry of Defence, additional Director General of Military Operations (A) Major General Ranbir Singh, had read out the army`™s statement on the operations carried out in the North East.

He had said `You are all aware that following the attack on our security personnel on June 4 in Chandel, Manipur, we have been on a high alert. In the course of the last few days, credible and specific intelligence was received about further attacks that were being planned within our territory.`

`These attacks were to be carried out by some of the groups involved in earlier attacks on our security personnel and their allies.`

`In view of the imminent threat, an immediate response was necessary. Based on intelligence, we conducted operations to counter these planned assaults.`

`Early this morning, the Indian Army engaged two separate groups of insurgents along the Indo- Myanmar border at two locations, along the Nagaland and Manipur borders. Significant casualties have been inflicted on them. As a consequence, threats to our civilian population and security forces were averted.

Further according to the statement, Major general Ranbir Singh had said `We are in communication with the Myanmar authorities on this matter. There is a history of close cooperation between our two militaries. We look forward to working with them to combat such terrorism.`

`While ensuring peace and tranquility along the border and in the border states, any threat to our security, safety and national integrity will meet a firm response` he said according to the statement.

NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and KCP welcome ‘Joint Assault’ team

IMPHAL, June 9: Three senior leaders of the NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and KCP representing each organisations namely KCP president Ksh Laba Meitei, KYKL chairman N Oken and NSCN/ GPRN

IMPHAL, June 9: Three senior leaders of the NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and KCP representing each organisations namely KCP president Ksh Laba Meitei, KYKL chairman N Oken and NSCN/ GPRN chaplee Kilonser Starson accorded `a warm victory reception`™ to the Joint Assault Team that returned after the June 4 attack on the 6 Dogra Regiment, said a joint statement of the three outfits.

The joint statement made available to the media houses was signed by PRO NSCN/ GPRN Col Isak Sumi, dy secretary Publicity and Research, KYKL Th Thoiba and member-in-charge Information and Publicity, KCP S Mangal.

It said the reception was also attended by army chiefs of KCP, KYKL, and Col Isak Sumi of NSCN/GPRN.

Further according to the statement, the event was rather sombre for the losses of the unit commander, Maj Rajanglung of Naga Army and Cpl Amit alias Keisham Rajen, 27, son of K Khamba of Nongdren Maning Leikai, of KYKL during and after the battle.

It said `Late Maj Raza was hit by an enemy mortar shell in the battlefield and Late Cpl. Amit breathed his last on the way to a safer place from the battle, probably, due to heart failure.`

`The KYKL authorities were not aware of any sign of such latent ailment and he had not lodged any health complaint. The report that his dead body bore bullet marks is totally baseless,` it claimed.

The statement further said `If it happens to be a report given out by concerned Indian forces, it is nothing but a shameless lie.`

`Maj. Raza was not only valiant and tactical in battles, but also prudent and judicious politically. His acumen for combat plan could ensure easy success and his tactical guidelines for retreat could save the rest of his team even after his sudden demise. His death is an irreparable loss to the NSCN/GPRN organization and Naga national movement. Cpl. Amit was friendly to all and jolly to a fault. His commitment to the revolutionary struggle and cheerfulness in times of hardships could elevate the sagging morale of everybody. The vacuum caused by his death cannot be filled up easily.`

The joint statement also said the victory of the combined team `is a landmark step towards Naga Meitei unified struggle for WESEA against Indian colonialism and this particular event further forges the camaraderie spirit between the two struggling communities.`

The Elite Unit offered condolence salute to their departed comrades and the gathering observed two-minute silence in honour of the martyred souls, it said.

IROM SHARMILA’S COURT APPEARANCE & INSENSITIVITY OF STATE

PRESS RELEASE Irom Sharmila appeared before the metropolitan magistrate Akash Jain in the Patiala session court of Delhi on 5th and 6th June 2015. The Court was required to record statements of

PRESS RELEASE

Irom Sharmila appeared before the metropolitan magistrate Akash Jain in the Patiala session court of Delhi on 5^thand 6^th June 2015. The Court was required to record statements of the witnesses that included the doctors along with another person who had recorded the protest of Jantar Mantar when Irom Sharmila was in Delhi in 2006.

In this case, the Delhi police had lodged FIR upon Irom Sharmila under section 309 of “Attempt to suicide’. Now as doctors did not come, the next date was given by the court with the hope that it will be the final hearing.

Save sharmila solidarity campaign (SSSC) members accompanied Irom Sharmila in the Court and were present in the court in solidarity. Campaign observed that though it was a judicial requirement, but such kind of hearings are mere unnecessarily harassment on the name of section 309 upon a human rights activist. It is a clear contradiction in Irom Sharmila’s case as while she is fighting for right to life, she is being charged with the allegation of taking away the right to life.

It is also observed that despite Irom Sharmila’s desire to meet Prime minister of India, prime minister Office have not called for any meeting yet. It is her demand since long time that she is hopeful with democracy and she wants to meet Prime minister. Save Sharmila Soldarity Campaign believes that not calling a meeting with her is actually a denial of state to meet this crusader of non-violence. It is a time when Irom Sharmila has global supporters to raise voice for her cause, but despite all efforts and unparalleled sacrifice and struggle, Indian state is continuously ignoring and suppressing her. It is unfortunate that the government is giving priority of talks with those who are adopting violent ways, but it is continuously ignoring the non-violence.

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign is already involved in campaigning and will increase its activities from coming months to spread awareness and to advocate for the cause of Irom Sharmila.

SSSC also condemns the Manipur attack and the questioning of demand of repeal of AFSPA. It was reported and SSSC reiterates the statement of Irom Sharmila who had condemned the Manipur attack. She regarded the killing of soldiers to be shocking and shameful. She has always condemned killing which is the reason for her protest. She regards killing, no matter by whom, as shameful and unacceptable. She had also said that this incident happened in a region which is under full control of AFSPA but still it happened. It shows that AFSPA has not been the solution.

SSSC agrees and fully supports her view. SSSC feels that such attacks are also failure of state itself as it seems that state has not even capable of protecting its own functionaries. Also, the fact remains that the common people are the sufferers of atrocities of both the state and anti-state groups. Through AFSPA, the state has been involved in performing extreme atrocities upon common people in past. SSSC believes that imposing hard laws like AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) in civil areas are of no use and it has been used against people widely. There must be a strategy to remove AFSPA from all areas of North East and J&K as without it confidence building cannot be done. AFSPA is a failed law and it must go.

Press Release issued by

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign

http://repealafspa.blogspot.in

One killed, four hurt as vehicle plunges into gorge

IMPHAL, Jun 8: At least one person was killed and four others including a woman suffered injuries when a Tata DI passenger vehicle they were travelling veered off track and

IMPHAL, Jun 8: At least one person was killed and four others including a woman suffered injuries when a Tata DI passenger vehicle they were travelling veered off track and fell into a gorge in a place between Rangkhong and Awangkhul along NH-37 (Imphal-Jiribam road) under Noney Police Station, Tamenglong district today around 8.30 am.

The deceased has been identified as Md Akhtar Hussain, 36 son of Late Md Ashafuddin Laskar from Silchar. He was working as a tyre fitter in Coastal Project Limited, a company engaged in the ongoing construction of railway line.

Reports said the ill-fated passenger vehicle was heading towards Imphal from Jiribam when its driver lost control while trying to stop the vehicle from moving backwards after climbing a stiff portion of the road and plunged into a deep gorge located around 15-km from Noney Police Station.

The four injured who were admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment are said to be out of danger. Police have registered a case in connection with the incident.

The dead body of the deceased has been preserved at JNIMS morgue for post mortem examination, the reports stated.

Final hearing on Speaker`s challenge to impersonation case fixed on June 17

IMPHAL, June 8: The final hearing of the counter case against the Manipur Legislative Assembly`™s Speaker impersonation case, filed by the speaker Th Lokeshwar Singh himself has been fixed on

IMPHAL, June 8: The final hearing of the counter case against the Manipur Legislative Assembly`™s Speaker impersonation case, filed by the speaker Th Lokeshwar Singh himself has been fixed on June 17, by the Court of District and Sessions Judge Manipur East at the complex of Uripok Cheirap Court.

The criminal revision case number 4 of 2015 was filed by the Speaker against Namoijam Singhajit Singh who contested in the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly Election as a NCP candidate from the Khundrakpam Constituency in 2012.

Namoijam Singhajit now the respondent of the case had earlier filed a petition (Criminal (C) case no. 35 of 2015) against the Speaker before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Imphal East.

He had charged that the Speaker`™s name appear as `Oinam Lokeshwar Singh`™ not as Thokchom Lokeshwar in his MA (History) passed documents. But in the affidavit submitted to the Election Commission of India for contesting in the State Assembly election in 2012, the Speaker used the title `Thokchom`™.

During the hearing of the case today, the court told counsels of the respondent that Election Commission of India accepts affidavit submitted by the Speaker and asked under which provision it should be challenged.

Directing the counsels to prepare relevant documents and affidavit in this regard, the court fixed the final hearing of the case on June 17.

It may be mentioned that Speaker Th Lokeshwar was summoned by CJM Imphal East on April 16, 2015 however prior to his appearance on April 15 he filed a counter case with the District and Session judge Manipur East.

The District and Session Judge in its ruling on April 15 while fixing the hearing the criminal revision case number 4 of 2015, on June 6 stayed the earlier case with the CJM Imphal East.

ADC candidates clarify on proxy voting allegations

IMPHAL, June 8: Four candidates of the 12-Chandel DCC namely independent candidate Hulang David Anal, NPF candidate PS Ngamnung Anal, NPF; independent candidate HT Kilaching, and BJP candidate SR Ngamhlung have jointly clarified regarding a charge from another independent candidate about their indulgence in proxy voting during re-poll at 12/4 Kanankhu Polling Station.

It may be mentioned that after the re-poll on June 6, Sng Larson chief agent of independent candidate TS Willingson Anal had written to the DEO concern demanding disqualification of the four candidates on the ground of proxy votes and waving party flags within the polling area.

Meanwhile clarifying on the allegation Hulang David Anal said that it was unfortunate that they are falsely charged and said that the election which was held on June 1 was re-polled due to having evidence of proxy voting and high handedness of the said TS Willingson Anal as the polling station was located within the 20meters of his residence.

He said on the day of re-poll on June 6, the four candidates had jointly inspected the polling station at Kanankhu Primary School and then stayed away from the polling station in accordance with the norms put up by the election commission.

He further clarified that all five candidate had not defy any rules of the election commission and did not used any of their respective party flags within the restricted parameter of the polling area.

SR Ngamhlung submitted that the candidates stayed at a distance till the end of the polling time on the re-poll day and added that there are no evidence of any proxy voting as it was a free and fair voting.

He said that any concern can have survey or conduct interviews of the polling agents and other officials for fact finding.

During the press meet a chief agent Alex D remarked that before the ADC election a memorandum have submitted to the concern DC about the mentioned polling station Kanankhu Primary School and two other for shifting to other sites as those were hyper sensitively located but it was unfortunately not addressed. He also said that with the permission from the concern authority they have checked the ballot box and found no signs of proxy voting.

PS Ngamnung Anal and other candidates lamented the unfounded and baseless allegations charged by the TS Willingson.

Police fend off impending Wangjing-Heirok clash; mob damages minister Okendro`s car

IMPHAL, June 8: The agitation over the alleged murder and rape of Ningthoujam Rebika took a sudden twist today when locals of Heirok and Wangjing came close to a violent

IMPHAL, June 8: The agitation over the alleged murder and rape of Ningthoujam Rebika took a sudden twist today when locals of Heirok and Wangjing came close to a violent face-off over the alleged involvement of a Wangjing local identified as Bishe in the case.

However, police stepped in and fired several tear gas shells to defuse the tension and disperse the two sides.

At the same time Heirok MLA Moiranghtem Okendro who came to take stock of the situation faced the ire of the locals who pelted stones at his convoy damaging his car`™s windshield.

According to information culled from today`™s incident site, around 7:30 am, locals of Wangjing started doing a publicity round using loudspeakers to convene a public meeting against the burning down of Bishe`™s house.

The locals also blocked the IVR connecting Wangjing and Heirok against allegations of Ningthoujam Bishe`™s involvement in the killing of Rebika and the subsequent burning down of his house by a mob from Rebika`™s locality on June 6.

Infuriated on getting information about the road block, Heirok locals also came out in full strength to confront the Wangjing locals while declaring that the latter`™s upheaval against the public of Heirok is inappropriate and inconsequent at a time when the burning issue is the rape and murder of a 25-year-old woman.

Even as the two sides were standing face to face for a confrontation, a huge Thoubal police team including commandos arrived and dispersed the Wangjing locals by firing tear gas shells.

On the other hand, a face-off ensued between the police and the Heirok locals near the Wangjing Awang Leikai.

The police needed additional force and also fired tear gas shells, rubber bullets and live bullets to disperse the protestors. The protestors also fired sling-shots and pelted stones towards the police. The police-protestors showdown lasted for around three hours.

The police however managed to turn back the protestors towards their village.

During the commotion, more than 20 persons including two women were injured and around 28 protestors of Heirok were arrested by the police. The arrested were released later in the day.

However, many of the 28 arrested and released had to be taken to the Heirok CHC for treatment after they complained of undergoing severe beatings from the police.

Two of them were also referred and taken to RIMS for further treatment.

In the meantime, around 10:20 am, local MLA Moiranghtem Okendro arrived with his escort team at Heirok Part II Laimayum area to talk with the protestors.

However, the protestors angered by his late arrival pelted stones damaging the windshields of the MLA`™s government allotted Verna car bearing regd no MN 01W 8688.

This made the MLA turn back and return without stopping, however, the protestors besieged the three Gypsy vehicles (bearing regd nos N 01 W 3024, MN 01 W 3025 and MN 01 X 3408) of 1st MR DGP pool escorting the minister and released them only after damaging the windshields.

The minister was later escorted by a Thoubal Cdo team upto Imphal.

It may be mentioned that N Bisojit alias Bise son of (L) N Tombi of Wangjing Tekcham Leikai had called a press conference yesterday clarifying his innocence in the killing of Rebika. He had said that he was released by the police who picked him up for enquiry on the incident on June 6, the day when a mob protesting the killing had burned down the houses of three suspects including Bishe`™s.

On the other hand, the JAC formed in connection to the death of Rebika has condemned today`™s confrontation between the locals of the two villagers as unfortunate.

During a press conference held this evening at Heirok, JAC member Kh Sini said the incident was unfortunate however, the use of loudspeakers for a publicity round by the Wangjing villagers had started the confrontation.

He continued that the JAC had high hopes that the Chief Minister will not take lightly Rebika`™s killing and punish all the culprits at the earliest. He added that the IO of the case had also assured to fully investigate the case.

The JAC and the family will not demand ex-gratia and it is the firm stand of the JAC to fight without violence to get justice in the case, he said.

He said the JAC had failed to covey its stand to the people of Heirok.

Meanwhile, the alleged rape and murder of Rebika has been condemned by All Manipur Nupi Marup and its Thoubal branch, Kairembikhok Nupi Samaj, Women in Governance, Thoubal Chapter among others.

Families of missing hunters seek administrative help to find them

IMPHAL, June 8: Families of the four hunters of Tonsen Khullen in Chandel district who have failed to return after they went hunting and fishing near Moltuk area on June

IMPHAL, June 8: Families of the four hunters of Tonsen Khullen in Chandel district who have failed to return after they went hunting and fishing near Moltuk area on June 3 have submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, Chandel to extend administrative support in finding the missing persons.

Following the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner immediately wrote to the Army commander for allowing search parties to look for them.

The family members also sought an appointment to meet the IG of 26 Sector Assam Rifles. However, a Major met the aggrieve party on behalf of the IG to receive the memorandum and informed them that a body found yesterday from the ambush site is not that of any of the missing persons.

Meanwhile, a wife of one of the hunters fainted during the meeting with the DC and had to be taken to the Chandel District Hospital where she is presently undergoing treatment.

The four hunters are K Rajamani Kom, 55, son of (L) Thonglen Kom, Y Mandana Kom, 39, son of Y Ibochou Kom, Yumnam Koireng, 30, son of Y Ibochou and Sr Koko Kom, 29, son of Sr Sanahongba Kom.

Our Kangpokpi Correspondent adds: The Komrem Union Manipur (North East India) today avidly pleaded with the security forces engaged in the extensive operation against the militants after the Paraolon (Chandel) ambush not to harm the four hunters from Tonsen Khullen if they happen to come upon them.

Lalkhomang Serto, President KRUM (NEI) in a press statement said it is our humble appeal to the security personnel involving in the extensive operation not to harm the four hunters if they happen to encounter them and hand over them to their families at the earliest so as to relief their families from their worries plead the union president.

Strongly condemning the ambush in which 18 army personnel were killed and others were severely injured, the union deeply condoles on the death of the soldiers who sacrificed their precious life for maintaining peace, law and order in Manipur while sharing the grief and pain of the deceased families.

`Violence brings no solution`, said the KRUM (NEI) supremo while appealing both security personnel and insurgents to respect the right to life of every human being in their conducts.

Chandel civil societies protest ambush

CHANDEL, June 7: A sit-in-protest against deadly attack of the Indian security forces that killed 18 soldiers and many other injured on June 4 near Paraolon village in Chandel district

CHANDEL, June 7: A sit-in-protest against deadly attack of the Indian security forces that killed 18 soldiers and many other injured on June 4 near Paraolon village in Chandel district was held at the Chandel DC Lamkhai today.

Organised under the aegis of Chandel Civil Society, representatives of various frontal organisation women from different tribes, village chiefs and pastor took part in the protest.

A memorandum condemning the brutal attack which was addressed to the Union Minister of Home Affairs was submitted to the Deputy Commissioner of Chandel Robert Khetrimayum Singh

The Challong village authority has also strongly condemned the ambush.

The village authority in press note jointly signed by village chief SK James and secretary LV Molarson saluted and extended heartfelt condolence and solidarity to the near and dear ones of the departed soldiers.

It said the service of the soldiers to the nation and the people of the area and the Challong village in particular will remain forever.

`We also like to share that we have a friendly relation with the regiment and will not let any other agency to derail those ties. We have been safe and were able to live peacefully under their protection. We are also ready to cooperate with their initiative to make the area peaceful`, the statement added.

Further stating that the people of Sulam area yearned for peace, the village authority appealed to the groups not to repeat such kind of act in the future.

The United Naga Council, Chandel Naga People`™s Organisation (CNPO), Naga Women Union, Tribe presidents in a joint meeting held today at CNPO`™s office also condemned the ambush.

Condemning the deadly attack in the strongest term the joint meeting said that any underground groups must not upset the people for creating war in the peaceful zone.

The meeting condoled and mourned the loss of 18 security forces and shared deepest sorrows to the bereaved families of the soldiers. It also prayed and wished speedy recovery of the injured.

The meeting also deliberated on the combing operation launch by the Indian forces during which it said that the operation has to be done according to the order of court and women police must be deployed in the operational areas.

The meeting further appealed for the safe return of 4 villagers of Tonsen Khullen who were reported missing from June 3 while going for hunting.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/chandel-civil-societies-protest-ambush/

`Textile Son of Manipur` to start first hosiery factory in State

By Paojel Chaoba IMPHAL, June 8: In 2000, he left Imphal with just around Rs 14,000. In a strange land, he swept floors just to survive, he was with his

By Paojel Chaoba

IMPHAL, June 8: In 2000, he left Imphal with just around Rs 14,000. In a strange land, he swept floors just to survive, he was with his better half and they subsisted on just one square meal a day. This man returned to Manipur to build a textile factory and he opened his showroom at Thangmeiband today with his own brand titled `Manipur Creations.`™

This is a brief story of Koijam Vasunraz, a self made man, textile entrepreneur. He owns a factory at Tirupur, a district of Tamil Nadu and also known as the `textile city`™ of India. There, he has a work staff of more than 200 employees. In his power looms, he has made such designer apparel with names like Van Heusen ,Pantaloon, Polo etc. He opened his own brand titled `Manipur Creations`™ and the apparels are designed by his better half , Koijam Sanjita, `Behind every successful man they say there is a woman ! For me, it was her, she is my strength !` Vasunraz said.

Today, Vasunraz and Sanjita opened their showroom at Thangmeiband near DM college campus, and a visibly impressed Industry minister, K Govindas inaugurated the shop. In a true rag to riches story which could inspire every youth seeking a job in the State, Vasunraz`™s ability to fight the odds and establish his presence in untested waters proves that when there is a will,there is indeed a way.

He has acquired land measuring 25,000 sq feet at Phumlou Siphai , Lamshang, Imphal West for building his factory. Besides this, he has also been offered another 10,000 sq feet of work space with dedicated power supply at Takyel Industrial estate by the State government.

Vasunraz said that the objective of opening up a factory is not entirely about profit alone but to start an industrial revolution assuring jobs and promoting the State through its colourful attires.

`We have produced garments at par with other renowned companies. We will compete with any other brand available in Manipur. The theme is to promote the handloom and handicraft of Manipur, my showroom design is based on our cultural heritage, the straw roofing and the bamboo, cane etc. used is to further promote the craftsmen who are dying out due to unemployment.` He added that his carry bags are also made from recycled paper to conserve the environment.

At the function today, minister Govindas said that Vasunraj is a promising entrepreneur of the state. He applauded that the modest showroom will expand to the rest of the other districts and will have a good market in future, which will also generate employment from the public. `I want to encourage this entrepreneur and have given him all the necessary infrastructure to do so, in the hope that there will be more employment generation in the State, we need more investors like him to promote the Industry sector in Manipur. I applaud his courage and determination of setting up a factory here. We cannot let his factory die away either, this is the land of economic blockade, bands which is a hindrance to progress, to development, there can be various agitations, but the economic blockade is dangerous starting from farmer to the businessmen of the State, it is our sole loss and hinders all development. Blockades and Bandhs are a number one enemy of the State.` Govindas said.

The minister mentioned that all major departments of the State are tying up together to form a program to eradicate unemployment in the State. `We want to explore the potential of the resources of this State, a Fragrance and Flavor development centre is coming up for the second time in the country. We have so much potential but don`™t know how to utilize it.`™ He added that a positive change will happen in the industry sector by next year.

MLA of Thangmeiband constituency , Kh Joykishan said that he never expected a Manipuri to have the capability of running a factory in another state of India. He said that our state is not self reliant and that we survive on the money given from the centre, however if we prioritize on developing industry and entrepreneurship, we can improve the financial condition of the State and along with it the living standards of the public.

NIA forensic experts arrive to help earlier team in probe

IMPHAL, June 8: A day after the National Investigation Agency commenced its probe of the June 4 ambush site with a spot enquiry, a forensic expert team of the agency

IMPHAL, June 8: A day after the National Investigation Agency commenced its probe of the June 4 ambush site with a spot enquiry, a forensic expert team of the agency led by a high level officer arrived in the State today.

It is also learnt that a team of the agency led by an inspector general level officer will be arriving in the State to inspect the ongoing investigation of the NIA.

A reliable source has informed IFP that the forensic expert team has brought along several high-tech equipments and will be joining the six-member team of the agency, already in the State, in the investigation.

The forensic experts will examine the gun, empty cases of bullets and empty shells of lathod gun recovered from the ambush site and will determine the details of the origination, year of manufacturing, power etc of the weapons recovered so far, the source said.

The source also informed that some individuals have been picked up during the combing operation conducted by the security forces which has been continuing in the area ever since the ambush.

The individuals are under stern interrogation to verify whether they are civilians or UG cadres involved in the ambush, the source added.

It may also be mentioned that 11 individuals were picked up yesterday during the operation, however, they were individually identified by the ADC chandel as civilians and later released.

It may be mentioned that a combined team of the NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and KCP had laid an ambush on a convoy of the 6 Dogra regiment of Moltuk post on June 4 in between Charlong Village and Paraolon Village, 35 kms from the Tengnoupal Police Station along the New Somtal Road in Chandel district killing 18 personnel including an assistant commandant and injuring scores of others.