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Peace rally to denounce atrocities against Meitei Christian community

IMPHAL, June 1: Peace Rally Committee, a committee formed by Meitei Christian Leaders will be organizing a peace rally on June 6 to denounce the burning down of church buildings,

IMPHAL, June 1: Peace Rally Committee, a committee formed by Meitei Christian Leaders will be organizing a peace rally on June 6 to denounce the burning down of church buildings, obstructions to construction works of churches, pastors`™ houses and threatening to Meitei Christians and stoning during worship in the churches and houses.

Announcing this during a press meet at Manipur Press Club here today, Chairman of Peace Rally Committee Rev. Dr L Iboyaima Singh informed that the rally will start from Presbyterian House, War Cemetery Road opposite DM College and will end with a prayer at Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound.

He said that the rally will not be a protest against any communities but it will be like a prayer walk where positive and constructive slogans like `We trust the God`™, `We stand for Peace and Unity`™, `We are Peace Loving People`™, `Church is a place of Worship`™, `Please Stop Burning the Churches`™, `Please Allow Church Construction`™, `Please lift up banning of church construction works`™, `God founded church, let us honour God`™, `Save the church to see life and future`™, `Church has the solution`™, `Manipur shall be saved`™, `Please stop mob injustice against churches`™ etc will be chanted.

The Indian Constitution guarantees the right to choose any religion. Many Meiteis chose to follow Christian religion due to believe in Lord Jesus. It should not be seen as taking advantage or breaking Meitei customary law. Meitei Christians should not be looked down by other communities, the chairman of the committee said.

He continued that Meitei Christians have been performing various activities towards peace in the state and preaching students to follow right path of life.

General secretary Rev. K Premjit Singh who was present during the meet lamented that Meitei Christian community has been facing various problem in the state, which is very unfortunate.

He claimed that Imphal West Meitei Christian Church at Patsoi Lamkhai situated around 200 meter from Patsoi Commando Unit was burnt down by some unknown persons on May 13 last at around 10.30 pm. Also the construction work of VCI Church at Kongpal Naoroibam Leikai was banned by locals.

Even pastor of the church was threatened through phone call to stop the construction work, he said.

Stating that Meitei Christians are peace loving people who pray for peace and harmony in the state, he said that around 50 organizations and 400 churches have assured that they will extend help in organizing the rally.

He also appealed to the people to give support and cooperation to the peace rally.

ADC poll witnesses high voter turnout amidst violent interruptions

Imphal, June 1: Voter turnout for the Autonomous District Council election in the five hill districts and Sadar Hills is stated to be around 75-80 percent, according to official sources.

The State Election Commission has also rescheduled polling in six polling stations.

In an official notification, the State Election Commission said polling at these polling stations has been rescheduled for June 4, as polling personnel failed to reach their polling stations in time for the June 1 election.

The official notice also identified the polling stations are 4/5-Nungsai LP School, 4/6-Santing Government LP School, 4/7- Santing Chongchin LP School, 4/8 Saiching LP School, 4/9-Lailong (S) LP School and 4/12-Kawnpi Mission School of Churachandpur district.

Sources also said that re-poll could be conducted in atleast 42 polling stations where there were reports of violence interrupting the poll process.

Voting was peaceful in all districts until noon today, however, the election process was marred by violent incidents reported widely from all districts in the later part of the day.
Interruptions to the voting process including incidents of destroying ballot boxes, tension among supporters of candidates, booth capture, gun-shooting, impersonation and proxy voting, etc were reported from all districts.

However, reports suggest high voter turnout in all districts other than in Tamenglong.

Reports suggest that at the end of the voting process, the voting percentage reached 65 percent in Sadar Hills, 75 percent in Churachandpur, 90 percent in Chandel, 80 percent in Ukhrul, 75 percent in Senapati and 40 percent in Tamenglong. However official confirmation on the poll percentage is awaited.

Several violent incidents were also reported from several polling stations across the six ADCs.

At 11/5 Taloulong polling station, around 1:15pm, supporters of both the Congress and BJP candidates fired shots in the air following a heated argument over interference in the poll process.

At Kangpokpi DCC, at 6/2 and 6/3 Kalapahar Junior High School, miscreants destroyed ballot boxes in front of the polling personnel. At the same time there were also scuffles between the police guarding the stations and supporters of some candidates.

In Chandel district, KNA and UMLA cadres allegedly captured booths at 1-Khoibu Segment including 1/5 Bongli, Â½ Khoibu and 1/1 Tollen polling stations.

However, villagers of the area attacked the UG cadres and stormed the polling stations and ballot papers were destroyed in the process.

Reports also said that re-poll is likely in eight polling stations out of 172 in Sadar Hills- 17/2 Maojang, 19/4 Ankhumbung, 19/5 Thangal Sarung, 19/7 Youngba Langkhong, 20/5 H Champhai, 23/6 Terakhong and 6/2 Kalapahar.

In Senapati district, re-poll is likely in eight polling stations out of 186 polling station namely 2/5 Liyai Khullen (D), 9/9 Makuilongdi, 12/4 Lairouching (A), 12/5 Lairouching (B), 19/1, 19/2, 19/3 Lakhamai, 19/6 Sirong.

In Tamenglong, re-poll is likely in three polling stations out of 165 – 23/4 Kambirong, 19/6 Zoujangtek and 13/5 Tamenglong.

Deconstructing a paranoia

The second election to the Autonomous District Councils, ADCs, in the hill districts, after their revival five years ago following a long hibernation, were held today. Fortunately, despite apprehensions, the polling concluded well by and large though marred at some places by sporadic violence. Surprisingly and encouragingly, the elections were marked by active participation of the electorate both during the campaign period as well as polling. It is a surprise, because going by the sceptics, these councils are damp squibs and at best placebos for ADCs under the 6th Schedule. It is at the same time encouraging because the enthusiasm shows that positive grassroots politics is alive and kicking in the hill districts. Maybe these ADCs do not have the degree of autonomy of the 6th Schedule ADCs, but their power structure is very close to those guaranteed by the Panchayati Raj which has been adopted in much of the rest of the country, and in the valley districts of Manipur as well. Understandably it has its strengths and its pitfalls. Very broadly, while the 6th Schedule ADCs have a measure of financial autonomy, the ADCs in Manipur are like implementing partners of developmental works of the state government, and certain departments have to have their programmes executed through these grassroots institutions. There have been plenty of hiccups in this relationship, but much of these also have had to do with local politics. One of these is, Panchayat and ADC leaders who work at the grassroots and are in constant touch with the people, at another level become threats to the positions of local MLAs, for the former can, and have more often than not aspired to the higher political platform of the State Legislative Assembly.

But leave the debate on the structures of these grassroots bodies for the time being, and instead go to the more immediate concerns expressed from different quarters over the manner the just concluded ADC elections were conducted. As expected, one of these relates to the paranoia that these elections too is likely to be hijacked by the campaign to have the state dismembered, in particular by those pushing for an alternative administrative arrangement pending a larger resolution of the Naga political movement for which leaders of the NSCN(IM) have been holding talks with the Government of India for the last 17 years and more. Obviously this interpretation is influenced by the attempts of the Nagaland People`™s Front, NPF, to make inroads into Manipur politics, both at the Assembly level as well as the grassroots, and the vociferous statements, often provocative, by their supporters in the state. Quite by coincidence, there is also the sensitive issue of the Dzuko Valley ownership which has come to the fore recently in the wake of alleged encroachment into this beautiful valley from the Nagaland side, although the valley belongs to both Manipur and Nagaland in parts, and traditionally to the Mao and Southern Angami communities. This issue too has added to the current milieu.

None of these issues are unimportant. Manipur must tackle them all, but to club them as part of a larger campaign to dismember Manipur would amount to mistaking the wood for the forest. Though important, and though they related to land in their own ways, all of them are not the same, therefore cannot be to anybody`™s benefit, seen as parts of any single grand design. The Dzuko Valley issue for instance has nothing to do with the Greater Nagaland issue. As we have written before, the valley is best left alone for all nature lovers to admire, and for the local communities of Mao and Southern Angami to benefit from this universal admiration. Nagaland and Manipur government should put their heads together to have the valley declared as a UNESCO world heritage site instead. On the NPF entry into the ADC elections, what changes can this bring about? There are NFP legislators in the Manipur Assembly, what difference that has made to the Greater Nagaland campaign? Nothing, except some silly debating brownie points with which supporters of the campaign think they can convince everyone that there is widespread disenchantment of these areas with the Manipur administration. Let it however be known, the people who are to be convinced of such a swing of emotion are not passive listeners ready to swallow anything they are fed with. They know how and why things happen to great extents. The moment this is realised, even the stalemate over the Naga peace talks should begin showing results.

Leader Writer: Pradip Phanjoubam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/deconstructing-a-paranoia/

JAC calls gen strike against alleged killing of woman

IMPHAL, June 1: The Aimol Numels`™ Waar, Manipur has said that in connection with the killing of Chairperson of Meira Paibi (Aimol Numei Waar, Manipur) M. Ruisoting Aimol, wife of

IMPHAL, June 1: The Aimol Numels`™ Waar, Manipur has said that in connection with the killing of Chairperson of Meira Paibi (Aimol Numei Waar, Manipur) M. Ruisoting Aimol, wife of Babudhon who was shot dead by Assam Rifles personnel along with some unknown person headed by Major Aditya Kapoor on May 31 at around 9.54 pm, a JAC has been formed.

According to a release of the association, the AR personnel came on a white Maruti Gypsy bearing registration number MN 01W 1510.

It further said that empty cases of 5 AK rifles, single barrel bullets, four numbers of caps, half a bottle of whiskey, two bottles of Diablo and some documents were found.

In connection with the issue, the JAC has called a general strike along NH 102 from the midnight of June 2. The association also stated that a similar incident had also occurred on May 27 at around 11.35 pm at Aimol Khullen village. The JAC strongly condemned the inhuman act of the AR against the people.

It further stated that the dead body will not be claimed until and unless the culprits are produced and handed over to the JAC within 24 hours. It also appealed to the government to take up measures to prevent such incidents in future, it said.

Press Release: Lean Startup Workshop 2 held

Lean Startup Workshop 2 motivates budding entrepreneurs Entrepreneurship is not about dreaming but to act. Sharing of knowledge and support among themselves is a must. IMPHAL, May 30: Dynamic Manipur

Lean Startup Workshop 2 motivates budding entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship is not about dreaming but to act. Sharing of knowledge and support among themselves is a must.

IMPHAL, May 30: Dynamic Manipur in collaboration with Globizs Web Solutions and MIMS, MU organized its second workshop event series ‘Lean Startup worshop’ at Hotel Yaiphaba Thangal Bazar Imphal here today.

The workshop is organized with the objective of building up a Startup eco-system in Manipur which can help in creating more number of successful entrepreneurs thereby solving the unemployment problems and bringing a sustainable economic solution.

Managing Director of Globizs Web Solution Roshinikumar Yambem and Business start up expert from USA, CEO Zeenova Inc and Co-Founder and VP Eng and Strategy, Akasia Inc. Gautam Thokchom spoke on the needs in starting up a business during the workshop.

Gautam Thokchom, CEO Zeenova Inc and Co-Founder and VP Eng and Strategy, Akasia Inc. said that entrepreneurship is an absolute freedom what a man wants whatever he wants to do. It is not about dreaming but to act. Entrepreneurs should not be considered as people who are earning money for themselves, but as people who are contributing to the society by providing employment to many jobless.

He said advised the aspiring entrepreneurs to not lose heart at the initial failure, but to work harder.

Delivering his speech as resource person, Managing Director of Globizs Web Solution Roshinikumar Yambem said for every entrepreneur, learning ‘failed fast, succeed fast is a must. A business cannot succeed without experiencing failures in the initial stage. Success stories of many entrepreneurs were scripted after experiencing failures.

Entrepreneurs are new kind of breeds among human beings. Society is the stakeholder of the entrepreneurs’ business enterprise. When the entrepreneurs fall down, the society too falls down. In the context of Manipur, knowledge sharing and mutual co-operation among the entrepreneurs is very poor. For achieving success in business, knowledge sharing and support among the entrepreneurs is a must, he observed.

He said that a budding entrepreneur, before launching his product, should have a clear cut long vision, good business plan and the scope of customers who would use the product. Without customers, every business flops.

He said that the lean startup event is an endeavour to extract the ideas of global business methodology and apply the same in our local business context.

The event was organized with support from the sponsoring Partners like Marina Spring, Shija Hospitals, Babina Diagnostics, FRANCHISE India, Hotel Classic, Imphal, Globizs Web Solutions, Manipur Creations, HVS Constructions Materials Pvt. Ltd while MIMS, Manipur University, Korea Manipuri Association (KMA), North American Manipur Association (NAMA), Green Biotech, Likla – Thangjam Agro Industries Pvt. Ltd., Imphal, WiseWorld Immigration and Education Consultants, Toronto, Canada as endorsing parters.

WOL Media, Siroi Offset Printers, Thoubal, Globizs Web Solutions, E-pao, Impact TV, Manipur Times, The Peoples’ Chronicle supported the event as Advertising, Printing, Technology & Media Partners.

The workshop was attended by 30 registered participants who are aspiring and came to the workshop with a business idea.

Harekrishna Mangsatabam (IAS), Special Secretary (Administrative Reforms), Special Secretary (Forest & Environment), Additional Director (Science and Technology), Director (Printing & Stationary, Niranjan Leirenjam, CEO, JCRE Skill Solutions, Dayanidi Huidrom, MD, Intellisome Consulting, Haobam Joyremba, MD, CubeTen Technologies, Hanjabam Shubhra Devi, MD, Meira Foods and Khagemba Sanabam, MD, Marina Spring also attended the event as invitees. Dr. L. Jibon Sharma, Dr. Keshorjit Sororkhaibam of MIMS, who are also DM’s Lean Startup advisors are also attended the workshop.

Sincerely,

Dr. N. Jiten Singh

Chief Coordinator, Dynamic Manipur

https://www.facebook.com/DynamicManipur

Email: dynamic.manipur@gmail.com

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/press-release-lean-startup-workshop-2-held/

14th Annual Social Gathering and General Body Meeting 2015 of EMA at Worcestershire, UK

The Annual Social Gathering and General Body Meeting for the year 2015 has just been concluded. The three day event which began on the evening of May the 22nd and

The Annual Social Gathering and General Body Meeting for the year 2015 has just been concluded. The three day event which began on the evening of May the 22nd and concluded in the morning of May the 24th , was held at Hanley Swan, a beautiful heritage village of English county of Worcestershire. Like every year the gathering was attended by Manipuri Diasporas residing in different parts of Europe, their friends and families.

A delicious treat of BBQ started the evening on Friday. But the main highlight of the gathering was the mouthwatering traditional Manipuri dishes prepared from ingredients and spices brought from home. To mention a few, Sareng thongba, rau taothong, mangal ushoi ooti, soibum eromba, thambou singju were the key items of the feast . Besides the delicacies it was a funfilled sporting event as well ,with ‘Thabal chongba’ and a tough football match between General Secretary team and Chairperson team . Gen Secy team won the match by 3-2 and lifted up the prestigious EMA Cup 2015 which began annually since 2014. Children of EMA parents also had a good time in the pleasant sunshine of temperature 15-20 degrees Celsius. They also enjoyed the most popular game, Chaphuthugaibi which seemed to be their favorite apart from them organizing a fund raising campaign themselves for orphans in Manipur. The fund drive was conducted by selling their unused toys and eatables prepared with their parents.

The gathering also had their annual General Body Meeting and this year happens to be the election year for a new EMA Executive Committee. Members had an exhaustive discussions on how to make EMA better as a platform for Manipuri Diaspora’s residing in different parts of Europe. A mutual understanding was reached for members to be actively involved in exploring ways to incorporate EMA as an organization to the changing needs of the time which will help the association function better and in an effective way. Some amendments in the Constitution were also passed by the general body. The General Body also elected a new Executive Committee members through proposals of candidates and voting . The EMA Executive Committee 2015-2017 are Chairperson – Dr. Krishnananda Sharma Shamurailatpam, General Secretary – Indrasekhar Mayengbam, Finance Secretary – Sobita Khangembam , Information Secretary – Rajesh Sharma Hidangmayum, Cultural Secretary – Bijaya Hijam and Sports Secretary – Deepak Takhelmayum.

The outgoing Chairperson, Mr Bishwajit Okram, thanked the outgoing committee members for selflessly working towards the upliftment of EMA as an orgnisation . He also thanked everyone for giving him the opportunity to serve the community and supporting him in many of the initiatives that he undertook during his tenure. In his speech, the newly elected Chairperson, Dr Krishnananda, also shared his common views and promised that he and his team will do their best to uphold the traditional values of EMA and to protect and preserve the identity of Manipur.

A group photo with women members wearing traditional Manipuri dresses summed up the very existence of EMA upholding and preserving the varied tradition and culture of Manipur and providing its members a platform to give them a feeling of ‘HOME AWAY FROM HOME’. Also a rare opportunity for children born and brought up here in Europe to remind them of their rich traditional and cultural roots.

TRIPURA IS START, AFSPA MUST GO FROM EVERYWHERE: SSSC

PRESS RELEASE TRIPURA IS START, AFSPA MUST GO FROM EVERYWHERE: SSSC Announcement of Repeal AFSPA from Tripura is a welcome move. We, at Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, convey our sincere

PRESS RELEASE

TRIPURA IS START, AFSPA MUST GO FROM EVERYWHERE: SSSC

Announcement of Repeal AFSPA from Tripura is a welcome move. We, at Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, convey our sincere thanks to Govt of Tripura as well as MHA for considering the move. We believe that repeal of AFSPA from Tripura is a decision in favor of democracy and humanity.

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) view this incident as ‘moving from inertia of AFSPA’. It is because since many years and even after continuous demands by people and rights groups, AFSPA was not even diluted a bit. No government or security agencies have taken any positive steps towards its repeal and were isolated from this issue. No one in the government even wanted to talk about the issue and those who were in government never tried to break the ice and ignored people’s demand.

As, SSSC had already stated in several other campaigning moments, AFSPA does not have people’s mandate. We also believe that by breaking this inertia, there is a signal of something positive. A start was awaited.

As Tripura is one of the states of North East region of India, repealing AFSPA from this state also sends a message of confidence and hope among all other people who are residing in AFSPA zone presently. We also see that this start must become dynamic very soon and governments must try to repeal it from every where.

We demand with the government to immediately pay attention towards Manipur also where Irom Sharmila is on a continuous fast since the last 15 years. Keeping AFSPA in Manipur is against the will and future of state. We demand with state and central government both to coordinate and cooperate with each other to end the impasse over AFSPA. For Manipur, state leadership of central ruled patry was already promised repeal of AFSPA.

SSSC believes that AFSPA that was extended to J&K vide AFSPA-J&K, should also be repealed as victimisation and sufferings cannot be looked separately. A human rights violation is always a violation of human rights regardless of region. in J&K, so many incidents of killings, rapes and disappeances have already been reported and evidences were provided even before courts against many security officials, but due to impunity under AFSPA (section 7), nothing could be done against culprits.

SSSC also see that enjoying such an impunity that AFSPA provides is actually a corruption and it is absolutely not required for any responsible , honest and committed security force personals. In contrary, it becomes dangerous as such absolute powers divert the normal way of working of personals.

SSSC appeals with the state and central government to immediately act upon this long pending demand of Repeal AFSPA. AFSPA is not required not only in Tripura but in no other AFSPA state. AFSPA is a failed law.SSSC will continue its efforts and will be organising protests and active campaigning in coming months for advocating Repeal of AFSPA from every where.

Press Release issued by

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaignhttp://repealafspa.blogspot.com

For any queries, contact Ravi Nitesh at savesharmila@gmail.com or 9958907799

No Tobacco day calls to tackle illicit trade of tobacco products

IMPHAL, May 30: The Indian Medical Association, Manipur State Branch today observed the World No Tobacco Day 2015 at the association`™s hall under the theme `Stop illicit trade of tobacco

IMPHAL, May 30: The Indian Medical Association, Manipur State Branch today observed the World No Tobacco Day 2015 at the association`™s hall under the theme `Stop illicit trade of tobacco products`.

The observation was organised in collaboration with the Medical Directorate, National Health Mission, National Tobacco Control Programme, Voice of Tobacco Victims and Coalition Against Drug and Alcohol.

At the onset of the function, State Health Mission`™s Dr K Komolini flagged off a rally from the State Health Mission which was continued till the IMA office.

Students from various schools participated in the rally holding placards, which read `Buy Tobacco Get Cancer,` `Smoking Tobacco Doesn`™t Make You Cool,` `Quite Tobacco before It Kills You,` `Say no to Tabacco.`

Meanwhile, speaking at the observation, Family Welfare director Dr K Rajo said that most of the middle aged persons consume tobacco.

He said many people have lost their lives due to tobacco use.

Manipur stands top in the use of tobacco among the North Eastern States, he continued.

Women who consume tobacco face certain threats during child delivery, the doctor said.

Dr Rajo also added that smoking a single stick of cigarette shortens one`™s life-span by seven minutes.

UGs capturing ballot boxes in CCpur: reports

LAMKA, May 31: Just one day ahead of the Autonomous District Council election, the preparation for the election was seriously affected when cadres of a UG group allegedly tried to

LAMKA, May 31: Just one day ahead of the Autonomous District Council election, the preparation for the election was seriously affected when cadres of a UG group allegedly tried to capture ballot boxes and kidnapped polling officials at 4-Chongkhojou ADC constituency of Churachandpur today.

The attempt was however thwarted by the swift action of a joint security team of Churachandpur police and Assam Rifles led by SP Churachanpur.

The polling officials and the ballot boxes were rescued near Chiangpi Village under Henglep sub-division and brought back to CCpur town by a reinforced police team led by addl SP Balram Singh.

The rescued team reached the Churachandpur DC office around 4:30pm.

Meanwhile, it is also learnt that in another incident happening yesterday, another election duty bound team heading for their designated booth in Chote Munpi ADC constituency was also waylaid by a UG group at Kholmun Village, who snatched ballot boxes.

However, pressure from the security forces resulted in the UG cadres returning the ballot boxes, according to sources.

It is also learnt that the concerned officials had not reported the incident, however, after the police and the Assam Rifles received information of the incident, they pressurized the concern outfit to return the ballot boxes which reached the DC office around 3pm today.

Meanwhile, a visibly shaken poll official talking to IFP, on condition of anonymity, said that their team is guarded by a 303 rifle welding VDF personeel which is not enough to safeguard them when there is so much violence.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/ugs-capturing-ballot-boxes-in-ccpur-reports/

Loaded tankers to be brought in ahead of blockade

IMPHAL, May 31: In the wake of the proposed indefinite economic blockade along National Highway-2 (Imphal-Dimapur road) imposed by the Committee for Koziirii and Dziiko (Dzuko) Land Boundary Resolution starting from June 1 midnight against the land encroachment at Dzuko Valley by Nagaland, the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has made a special arrangement to bring back loaded oil tankers here in the State before the commencement of the blockade.

The special arrangement is being made considering the daily needs of fuel by the people of the State.

Sources said efforts will be made to bring back loaded oil tankers from the petrol and diesel supply points at Guwahati, Tinsukia and Numaligarh to Imphal safely before 1 pm of tomorrow.

Earlier, empty oil tankers used to leave Imphal at around 10-11 pm with CRPF escort and reach Mao next early morning. CRPF personnel from Nagaland would escort the tankers till they cross the State. After loading fuel from the supply points, CRPF personnel from Imphal would escort the loaded oil tankers up to the State capital.

Under the special arrangement, empty oil tankers will cross the Mao Gate before 1 pm of tomorrow. The number of loaded oil tankers that will be reaching Imphal tomorrow could not be ascertained.

However, it is said that above 50 loaded oil tankers including both petrol and diesel will be reaching here, the sources added.

On the other hand, neither the IOC nor the state government has made any arrangement to make oil tankers travel through National Highway-37 (Imphal-Jiribam road) to load fuel till the time of filing this report.

`Govt trying to divert public attention`

IMPHAL, May 31: The State government is trying to divert the public`™s concern from the various serious issues confronting the State at the moment by victimising us (three MLAs), claimed

IMPHAL, May 31: The State government is trying to divert the public`™s concern from the various serious issues confronting the State at the moment by victimising us (three MLAs), claimed recently disqualified MLA of Wangoi Assembly Constituency Oinam Lukhoi today.

Soon after joining the BJP, Lukhoi said the Ibobi led Congress government has taken advantage of a family conflict in the Trinamool Congress.

He questioned why the Speaker chose to announce the verdict of their disqualification when the State is burning on the issue of land encroachment at Dzuko Valley from the Nagaland side.

The issue was an inner conflict of the Trinamool Congress regarding the party`™s State president which had already been amicably solved within the party, he said. At the same time following the development, they had already submitted their applications seeking withdrawal of the case, Lukhoi continued.

However, the Speaker announced the verdict which had been reserved for a long time and all these were done under the guidance of Chief Minister Ibobi, he alleged.

He continued why the Speaker is keeping the case of five MSCP MLAs joining the Congress still pending.

It is now much better to fight the bye-election and get elected again instead of taking the Speaker`™s verdict to the court, he continued.

The people of Wangoi are ready to challenge the Congress in fresh election, he said.

He said it is the right time to join the BJP and fight against corruption.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/govt-trying-to-divert-public-attention/

Change is near, declares Bishwajit

IMPHAL, May 31: A change in near in Manipur, Thongam Bishwajit who joined the BJP today following his disqualification as Thongju MLA asserted. Speaking at the BJP`™s Nityapat Chuthek where

IMPHAL, May 31: A change in near in Manipur, Thongam Bishwajit who joined the BJP today following his disqualification as Thongju MLA asserted.

Speaking at the BJP`™s Nityapat Chuthek where he along with the two other ousted MLAs were welcomed, Bishwajit said it is the right opportunity for the people to step forward and bring a change.

We have some experience of what goes inside the State Assembly during our stint as MLAs and it is clear to us that there is no administration and law in the hill districts.

INC stands for India`™s Naturally Corrupt party, Bishwajit asserted before pledging to fight against the party to bring the much needed change under the BJP.

Bye-polls in the three Assembly Constituencies which have been left vacant after our disqualification would be a fight between the people and the corrupt Congress, he claimed.

Expressing hope that he would be able to open the BJP`™s account in the State Assembly, Bishwajit appealed to the people not to sell their support for money.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/change-is-near-declares-bishwajit/

People still supporting us: Joykishan

IMPHAL, May 31: People will decide the fates of their constituencies during the expected bye-elections, disqualified Thangmeiband MLA Kh Joykishan said regarding the seats left vacant following the disqualification of

He was speaking at the BJP Manipur Pradesh office after joining the party.

Joykishan said with the people`™s support, he hopes to retain the seat, but in case the people fail to support him, he would go away from the people of his constituency.

He said soon after hearing of the Speaker`™s verdict against the three MLAs, people told him not to take the case to the court and to fight the bye-election as they were with him.

People told me they were ready for fresh poll and that we will defeat the verdict through election, Joykishan said.

Fresh polls would be a fight between the people and the Congress not between candidates, Joykishan asserted.

The disqualification is directly depriving the people of the three constituencies of development and welfare, he continued.

Joykishan continued although some MLAs had suggested him to take the Speaker`™s verdict to court, he felt it was a good opportunity to challenge and fight the Congress which has deprive the people of any development in the past 13 years or so.

Now it is for the people to decide who their right representative is, he said.

Joykishan said he wanted to join BJP and follow Narendra Modi`™s principle and eradicate corruption from the State.

Today, three `knights`™ have joined the BJP to fight the corrupted Congress, he claimed.

He further appealed to the people to join the BJP and strengthen it. Joykishan also showered support to the BJP candidates for the June 1 ADC election.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/people-still-supporting-us-joykishan/

ZU (AMN) calls for peace on Dzuko Valley issue

IMPHAL, May 31: The Zeliangrong Union (Assam, Manipur and Nagaland) has regretted that issue of alleged land encroachment at the Dzuko valley has created an unpleasant atmosphere and tension between

IMPHAL, May 31: The Zeliangrong Union (Assam, Manipur and Nagaland) has regretted that issue of alleged land encroachment at the Dzuko valley has created an unpleasant atmosphere and tension between the Mao and Angami communities in particular and the people of the two States in general.

A press release of the union said that the rightful claim and counter claim on Dzuko valley is supported by many powerful civil societies and prominent leaders of the two States and the union feels that the opinion and views of these powerful organisations and prominent leaders may hamper the age old good relationship of the neighbouring States.

The union has also appealed to the governments of Manipur and Nagaland to bring an amicable solution immediately with the help of the Centre.

It also sincerely appealed to the Mao and Angami brothers to withdraw the imposed drastic actions and also request both to come together with mutual understanding and mutual respect and solve the differences as soon as possible, it said.

The union also suggested that if the Dzuko valley is going to hamper the relationship between the two communities, the union suggests to declare Dzuko Valley as `No Men`™s Land`™ so that everyone can enjoy the unique and beautiful valley, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/zu-amn-calls-for-peace-on-dzuko-valley-issue/

Disqualified MLAs join BJP; Chaoba to pressure government for early bye-polls

IMPHAL, May 31: The three Trinamool Congress MLAs who were recently disqualified joined the BJP today. Kh Joykishan of Thangmeiband Assembly Constituency, Thongam Bishwajit of Thongju Assembly Constituency and Oinam

IMPHAL, May 31: The three Trinamool Congress MLAs who were recently disqualified joined the BJP today.

Kh Joykishan of Thangmeiband Assembly Constituency, Thongam Bishwajit of Thongju Assembly Constituency and Oinam Lukhoi of Wangoi Assembly Constituency joined the BJP this evening.

Supporters of the three from their respective constituencies came in full strength and thronged the Nityaipat Chuthek of the BJP from 2pm.

BJP Manipur Pradesh president, Th Chaoba approved their joining in and expressed hope that the three will open the party`™s account in the State Assembly by winning the expected bye-elections.

Speaking at a simple function at the BJP office welcoming the three into his party`™s fold, Chaoba said people, who have realized the true face of the Congress are today coming in droves to the party office with smiles on their face, even though they are supposed to be sad over the disqualification of the three MLAs.

Chaoba claimed the Speaker had taken his decision, while obeying the Chief Minister`™s order.

The Congress is against any MLA from any party working for the development of the State and welfare of the people, he said.

The disqualification of the three is not only an insult to Bishwajit, Lukhoi and Joykishan but to the people of Thongju, Wangoi and Thangmeiband, he continued.

Ibobi didn`™t want these three to be MLAs anymore and so used the Speaker as his puppet to exercise the latter`™s power to do the job without any consideration of its fall-out, Chaoba remarked.

The Speaker is inhuman as is evident from the fact that he considers to remain silent in the SI assault case, the BJP State president continued.

The three wanted to take their case to the court, but since even the judiciary in the State is under the Ibobi led Congress government, they considered it hopeless and decided to fight fresh elections, Chaoba asserted.

He further said that the BJP will pressure the government to hold the by-polls within three months time from today.

Welcoming the three ousted MLAs on behalf of the party`™s national president Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP national executive member Tapir Gao said the three with their entry into the party will follow the party`™s vision of bringing development and peace in Manipur.

Speaker`s Strange Verdict

The disqualification of three MLAs of the All India Trinamool Congress by the Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Th. Lokeshwar Singh, is being understandably protested by supporters of these MLAs, but leaving aside their disappointment at their leaders being so unceremoniously deposed, there are certain legal doubts which have not been explained adequately by the 31-page ruling of the Speaker. The first of these has to do with the very basic condition set by the 10th Schedule, popularly known as the Anti-Defection Law, that elected MLAs (or MPs) of a political party cannot cross the floor of the Assembly (or Parliament) without attracting penal action under this law unless the defecting group constitutes one third of the total strength of the party in the Assembly (or Parliament) as the case may be. In our case, this will be the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly. The fact is the Trinamool Congress returned seven MLAs in the last Assembly election. The fact is also four MLAs wanted to break away from the party, claiming they had formed another party. The obvious conclusion is, four is way above one third of seven, therefore their wanting to leave their original party should not have attracted review under the 10th Schedule at all. Moreover, one of the four rebels had expired in the meanwhile, leaving the Trinamool with only six MLAs in total, and the rebels with three.

Let us do some interesting permutations. One third of seven is approximately two point three. Since we cannot have a fraction of an MLA, the (.3) would have to be converted to a whole number. By the basic thumb rule of mathematics, in such a situation, (.5) is taken as the median. Therefore 2.3 MLAs would have been treated as two MLAs. There was some ambiguity here, however, after the demise of one MLA, and the total number of Trinamool MLAs was reduced to six. One third of six MLAs thus becomes a round figure of two, so there should have been no uncertainty anymore. In either scenarios, three (or four) MLAs leaving a legislature party of six (or seven), should have been seen as commanding the requisite number not to attract the 10th Schedule. If each disqualification case was treated as separate cases, having different merits to be adjudicated, then perhaps there would have been no escape from penalties under the 10th Schedule, but the judgment on all the three was by a single order. Moreover, there was only one petitioner against all of the dissident MLAs, and his case was fought by his two advocate team. Similarly, all the dissidents had only one advocate fighting for them. The Speaker`™s order itself mentions in para 2 that `these cases were taken up together, with the consent of the parties, for the hearing and disposal by a common order.` Further on in the same para the ruling again says `all the pending Disqualification Cases filed by the petitioners, involved identical facts and similar issues`. In para 49, the Speaker`™s ruling again says that the dissidents confirmed by `their acts/actions and admissions` that they were forming a new political party thereby substantiating `the contentions of the petitioners`.

In other words, the three MLAs were disqualified because they wanted to leave their original party and form a new party. The point is, this cannot be a justification for disqualifying the MLAs for the 10th Schedule does not put a blanket ban on MLAs switching loyalties, either by defecting or by voting against the party whip in any contest of strength in the Assembly. It only puts a tough restriction that they have to first muster the strength of one third of their original legislature party to split without attracting penalty. If it was a blanket ban on dissenting voices, it would have been by democracy`™s own definition, tyranny. Those who remember the debates on the 10th Schedule at the time it was being introduced in 1985 will be in no doubt that this danger was acknowledged by all at the time. If the Parliament and Assemblies acquire meaning because of the dialectics between the voices of the Treasury benches and the dissenting voices of the Opposition benches, the same principle of respecting dissenting voices must be allowed within the different legislature parties too, but as it was realised, with some structural barriers so inner party dissidence cannot be engineered easily from outside. Under the circumstance, should the Speaker not be asked to explain how four (or three) MLAs wanting to leave a legislature party of seven (or six) can attract the provision of the 10th Schedule? Clearly, in this case, the dissenters formed the majority voice within the legislature party, and their majority opinion was being snuffed out. Is this not anti-democratic, other than being in clear contravention of the terms set by the 10th Schedule?

Leader Writer: Pradip Phanjoubam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/speakers-strange-verdict/

Around 1000 polling personnel fan out to 159 booths in Sadar Hills

KANGPOKPI, May 31: Polling officials selected for performing election duty during the 5th ADC Election 2015 to be held on June 1 in respect of Sadar Hills have left for

KANGPOKPI, May 31: Polling officials selected for performing election duty during the 5th ADC Election 2015 to be held on June 1 in respect of Sadar Hills have left for their respective polling booths in Sadar Hills from ADC Complex here today.

More than 1000 polling personnel including reserved personnel have been pressed into election duty in the 159 polling stations in the Sadar Hills.

While 47 booths are in Kangpokpi AC, there are 64 polling booths in Saikul AC and 48 booths in Saitu AC.

Five polling personnel have been deployed in each of the polling booths in the district, said Chunglenmang Kipgen, Returning Officer, Kangpokpi.

He continued that 27 candidates including six from INC, seven from BJP, four from NFP, two from LJP and eight Independent will go for the poll tomorrow in 47 polling booths in 7 DCC under RO Kangpokpi.

According to the Vulnerability Mapping, out of the total 159 polling stations in the district, 48 are considered as hyper sensitive, 59 as sensitive and 52 as normal, said the RO, adding that more than 200 vehicles including in reserved will be used in the election to ferry the polling parties and security personnel in respect of Sadar Hills.

The Returning Officer, Kangpokpi further said that District Council Constituencies along Imphal-Tamenglong Road have been categorized as Hyper Sensitive and Sensitive in the interest of voters and also to ensure free and fair voting.

Among many other Hyper Sensitive booths mentioned in vulnerability mapping by the district administration, all the six polling stations under 8-Wakotphai DCC in Kangpokpi and all the seven polling booths under 24-Bongbal Khullen DCC in Saikul AC have been also categorized as Hyper Sensitive.

As per report received from the Nodal Officer, in-charge of security, adequate security arrangements had been made for the poll, said the RO Kangpokpi, explaining that polling parties will be escorted by security personnel till their destination.

`All the polling parties were dispatched from this morning after successfully distributing the polling materials at Security Barrack, ADC Complex, Kangpopki and they will reach their respective destinations by evening,` added Chunglenmang Kipgen.

While informing that tomorrow`™s voting will begin at 7 am and will continue till 4.30 pm, the district administration called upon the people, who are not voters or candidates of the constituencies going to polls on Monday, to leave the area to ensure free and fair polling.

`I will heave a sigh of relief only after polling is over after which I will return to the district headquarter`, said a Presiding Officer.

“™Being a presiding officer, I will adhere to the responsibilities and ensure safety of my team during the polls,` said a Senior Headmaster from Twilang (IT.Road) area.

“™Some of my friends are going to a booth which is categorized as Hyper Sensitive but I am lucky to have been deployed at a normal polling booth`™`™, said a teacher from Saikul as he waited for his vehicle to leave.

A housewife who came to see-off her husband who has been assigned the duty of a Presiding Officer in the election said, `I am happy that my hubby has been engaged in a constitutional activity and at the same time I pray for his safe return because I have a heavy heart due to the fearsome election culture in Manipur`.

MPP president charged of dissolving district committees

IMPHAL, May 30: Although there is an ongoing court case regarding the alleged suspension of three Manipur People`™s Party`™s central committee members by the party president N Sovakiran, the president

According to a central committee member of the party S Dilip Singh, an order had come out on May 25 stating that the dissolution of the district and kendra committees was the resolution no 3 of a working committee meeting convened on May 23 at the president`™s office.

The dissolved Kendra committee`™s are Wangkhem Kendra Committee, Moirang Kendra Committee, Sugnu Kendra Committee, Thanga Kendra Committee, Lamlai Kendra Committee, Yaiskul Kendra Committee, Thongju Kendra Committee, Sagolband Kendra Committee, Kumbi Kendra Committee and SIngjamei Kendra Committee.

The dissolved district committees are Thoubal District-I, Thoubal District-II and Bishnupur District.

He said the step taken up by the party president is despite a case pending against the president before the Civil Judge, Senior Division no 1.

He further said that the dissolution of the district and kendra committees and suspension of the three central committee members are against paragraph 2 of Article No 8 (2) of the party`™s constitution and the rights of the members provided under Article 29.

Such actions are that of a dictator, he continued.

All these are acts to bring an end to the only regional political party in the State he said adding that the president is acting in an anti-party manner.

Sovakiran should step down from being the party president on moral grounds, Dilip demanded.

No NSCN (IM) ceasefire in Manipur: Tapir Gao

IMPHAL, May 30: The NSCN (IM) ceasefire is not extended to Manipur and is confined only in Nagaland, BJP national executive member Tapir Gao told media persons today at the

IMPHAL, May 30: The NSCN (IM) ceasefire is not extended to Manipur and is confined only in Nagaland, BJP national executive member Tapir Gao told media persons today at the BJP Manipur Pradesh office.

During the same briefing, BJP Manipur Pradesh president Th Chaoba also claimed that NSCN (IM) cadres have abducted Taningjam Village chairman Ringthengning for supporting the BJP candidate from Magulong district council constituency of Tamei AC.

Tapir Gao said that the State government should be held responsible for all incidents of kidnapping, abduction and threat to ADC election candidates and workers committed by UG groups under Suspension of Operation with the governments.

The Centre is providing para-military forces to Manipur, however, the State government is unable to properly control the movement of the armed cadres, he said.

The para-military forces are for maintaining law and order, however, without the consent of the State government, the Centre cannot interfere in monitoring the movement of armed cadres who are threatening ADC election candidates and workers.

He further appealed to the leaders of SoO signatory groups and the NSCN (IM) not to violate the ground rules agreed between them and the government of India.

The Modi government is taking up various steps to maintain peace with the SoO and peace talk signatories, he said and further asked all cadres to stay in their designated camps in order to maintain peace.

He further appealed to the State government to deploy State forces to ensure the free and fair conduct of the ADC polls.

Chaoba also claimed that miscreants have snatched poll materials including ballot box from polling personnel of 3/16 Mongken and 3/9 Chothe Munpi polling stations under 3-Henglep DCC in Churachandpur district due to the failure of the State government to deploy armed police personnel in the area. The snatching of poll materials is very suspicious because the constituency will witness a straight fight between the BJP candidate and Congress candidate, he added.

In another incident, the Taningjam Village chairman Ringthengning has been abducted by NSCN (IM) cadres for supporting the BJP candidate for Magulong DCC of Tamei in Tamenglong, Chaoba alleged.

He further identified the NSCN (IM) cadres as Nambou of Makhuilongdi region and from Nagaland and Agim from Nieamning Village.

He continued such incidents have been reported just 48 hours ahead of the ADC election.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/no-nscn-im-ceasefire-in-manipur-tapir-gao/

Preparations for bye-elections in A/Cs of three disqualified MLAs initiated

IMPHAL, May 30: Following the disqualification of three MLAs of All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) from the House by the tribunal of Speaker of Manipur Legislative Assembly under the Tenth

IMPHAL, May 30: Following the disqualification of three MLAs of All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) from the House by the tribunal of Speaker of Manipur Legislative Assembly under the Tenth Schedule of Indian Constitution, the first meeting to chart out necessary preparations for holding bye-election in the respective constituencies of the disqualified MLAs was held today at the office of DC Imphal West at Lamphelpat.

The three AITC MLAs who have been disqualified are Kh Joykishan (Thangmeiband Constituency), Th Bishwajit Singh (Thongju Constituency) and O Lukhoi Singh (Wangoi Constituency). They were disqualified on May 27 by the Speaker invoking anti-defection law.

The meeting which was presided by DC Imphal West, Ningthoujam Geoffrey began at 11.25 am though it was supposed to begin at 11 am as per an official circular.

According to an official who attended the meeting, there is a high possibility of holding bye-election in the three constituencies to fill up the vacant seats of MLA in the constituencies.

The meeting was convened to start necessary preparations for holding the election following the disqualification.

The meeting also discussed about selection of required staff to be employed in the bye-election, reservation of office rooms to be used by the staff and preparation of relevant documents to be sent to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the official disclosed.

Assistant Commissioner of Imphal West District, Sukumar; Sub-Divisional Officer of Imphal West (Lamphel); SDO Wangoi; Sub-Deputy Collector, Wangoi; SDC (Headquarter), Wangoi and Assistant Electoral Officer (AEO), Amuyaima were also present at the meeting.

Meanwhile, Manipur Legislative Assembly has issued an official notification today declaring that seats of MLAs in the Assembly Constituencies of Thangmeiband, Thongju and Wangoi are vacant following the disqualification of its MLAs.

According to reports received by this daily from Assembly Secretariat, a copy of the notification has been sent to ECI today.

A copy of the judgement order passed by the tribunal of Speaker disqualifying the three MLAs was also sent to the commission yesterday.

An official gazette notification regarding the disqualification and subsequent vacancy of MLA seats in the respective constituencies will be out soon. A copy of the notification will be sent to the ECI, the reports said.

The vacant seats in the assembly segments mentioned in the official notification which was sent to the Election Commission of India are at 5-Thongju; 9-Thangmeiband and 22-Wangoi Assembly Constituencies, it added.