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IMPHAL, May 20: Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam has today appealed to all village chiefs, headmen and chairmen to ensure the June 1 Autonomous District Council election is conducted in a free and fair manner instead of yielding to the instigations and pressures from the different hill based underground outfits to support their candidates.

Gaikhangam who is also the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee president was addressing a function held as part of the 125th Birth Anniversary observation of the `Father of the Indian Constitution`™ Dr BR Ambedkar organised by the Tamenglong District Congress Committee.

The party`™s election campaign was also inaugurated during the function held at the Noney Longmai common ground at Nungba sub-division, Tamenglong.

Gaikhangam said with the ADC election approaching, there are reports of hill based UG organisations summoning village chiefs forcefully through written notes.

We have access to the written notes of the UG groups from the State`™s intelligence sources, Gaikhanngam who is also the State Home minister claimed.

He continued, after summoning the village chiefs, they will be forced to sign papers saying that they support the UG groups endorsed candidates and then declare before the public that the chiefs had voluntarily supported the candidates.

This is entirely against democracy and an act of desperate measures of the `Kilonsers`™ of the UG groups and their cadres, he continued.

He further said a `kilonser`™ coming down to the status of a grade IV peon and delivering summon letters to the village chiefs is in itself an act of surprise.

He further appealed to the people to bravely face such dictates of the UGs and not to abide by them ahead of the election.

In case they warn or threaten of punishment for defying their summon, tell them that the deputy Chief Minister has forbidden them and to sort it out with the deputy Chief Minister instead, he said.

`Let them attack me using any weapon I will face them,`™ Gaikhangam said adding that anyone abiding to the summons of the UG groups are guilty in the eyes of the law.

The ADC election had been opposed by the people of the hills unless the 6th Schedule was implemented in the hills, however, after 20 years, under the leadership of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, the election was conducted for the first time in 2010, he said.

The election will provide a local self government in the hills and so everyone should ensure that the polls are conducted in a free and fair manner, Gaikhangam observed.

The function was also attended by Hill Areas Committee vice chairman Z Kikonbou Newmai, Tamanglong MLA Janghemlung Panmei and Congress candidates from Tamenglong ADC constituencies.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/gaikhangam-appeals-to-village-chiefs-against-yielding-to-ug-summons-ahead-of-adc-polls/

The recent statements of intent by Education minister, M Okendro, on the matter of revamping and rejuvenating government schools is encouraging. One of the statements said the government would be singling out eight of the best and reputed government higher secondary schools and as a start, and sharply focus government attention on them. This will include bringing in the best teachers on its payroll to teach in them. This is a very good idea. The government does have very qualified teachers, especially among the younger lot recruited in the past few years. Unfortunately, the school system has decayed so badly in Manipur, thanks to unthinking official corruption in the past that most of these teachers are left sitting idle with no students to teach. Indeed, it is a reality that except for the desperately poor, few or no parents send their children to government schools at any level, primary, secondary or higher secondary. While at the high school and primary school levels, the situation is next to impossible to revive, things are a little better at the higher secondary level. The eight schools that the minister named, such as Johnstone, Tamphasana, CC etc, still draw students at the higher secondary level, and to some extent are an alternative to private schools which not all parents can comfortably afford. Given a committed administration, competent teaching staff and up to date teaching infrastructures, there is no reason these schools cannot regain their lost reputations. As in the earlier experiment of starting a few model government schools, they can become a hit too.

There is something else we like to suggest to the education department. If these schools improve and win the confidence of parents and students, they will ultimately be flooded with entrance applicants and there will be no way the school can accommodate them all without sacrificing quality. Since these schools are brand names, they will continue to hold the attraction. Therefore, as in the case of so many extremely successful franchised private schools, such as Delhi Public Schools, what the government can do here is to have different campuses of these eight schools spread out to more places instead of trying to revive little known schools, who reputations, if they at all had any, had been destroyed beyond salvation. As for instance, other than at the original location opposite the Kangla western gate, there could for instance be more Johnstone School campuses in Thoubal, Kakching, Chandel etc. The pool of best picks of teachers meant for these schools can also be made intra transferable within the same Johnstone chain, so that the entire staff will have a sense of attachment and belonging to the particular institution and name. Since there will be other such chains of elite government schools, a healthy competition probably would also result for the betterment of school education in the state as a whole. This initiative can start with the government higher secondary schools for this sector is not dead yet, therefore easier to rejuvenate, but ultimately the experiment must be taken to both the high school and primary school levels.

The other statement was made by the minister recently on the occasion of the declaration of the matric examination results, where again government schools performed dismally, except for the saving grace provided by Jiribam where government school showed encouraging signs of improvement. He said teachers in government schools which consistently fail to produce students who can clear the BOSEM conducted Class X and COHSEM conducted Class XII exams, will be given voluntary retirements. This will indeed be a good step. It will first of all serve as the kind of prodding necessary to put non-performing teachers on their toes and improve their efforts. If this prodding still does nothing, then retiring off these teachers and replacing them with younger and better qualified teachers will be fit to purpose. These teachers who are thus retired off will not be left with nothing in hand for they will have a pension to live on, and the school system too will have the benefit of fresh blood and energy. If these initiatives are pursued with commitment, we are sure within a generation of school going children, government schools would have risen from their moral debris once again. Nothing can be better for Manipur than this. In a situation where parents can take for granted good education for their children, their energy and resources can begin to be directed at other creative pursuits. Children who cannot afford education in private schools too will then be on the same stead as children of richer parents in the preparation for life ahead. Nothing can be a faster way to an egalitarian society than availability of good education for all.

Leader Writer: Pradip Phanjoubam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/equality-through-education/

IMPHAL, May 20: Residents of Purum Likli and Leitangpokpi staged a sit in protest today in front of the Purum Likli Village against a threat on the BJP candidate for the upcoming ADC election from 20-Mapao district council constituency of Sadar Hills.

The candidate is identified as L Kaikam.

During the demonstration, the protestors raised slogans demanding no disturbances to the peace in the area and to allow free and fair conduct of the ADC election.

The protestors identified that Kaikam was intimidated and threatened by the Kuki Revolutionary Army and further demanded the armed groups not to interfere in the ADC election.

One of the protestors appealed to all concern not to serve any threat to the ADC candidates.

Do not threaten the people and allow peace and tranquility in the area, he said.

A threat on one`™s life is against development and it is the time to call for a free and fair election to usher in development, growth and peace in the area, he continued.

The protestors also said that on the day of hoisting of his flag, Kaikam was served a threat note by KRA cadres asking him not to contest the election.

The sit in protest was attended by people of the Meitei community from the neighbouring village of Leitangpokpi.

A member of the Leitangpokpi Awang Leikai Meira Paibi said though the locals of Leitangpokpi Village are not included in the ADC election, they have come out to participate in the protest as the issue was a threat to the free and fair election process.

She said at the same time, the villagers of Purum Likli Village and Leitangpokpi Village are also on friendly terms.

The inter-community harmony in the area has been in existence for long, she said adding that they have been helping one another in times of sorrow.

She said the threat on the ADC candidate is lamentable and regrettable and further appealed to all not to repeat such crime in the area.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/sit-in-staged-against-kra-threat-to-adc-candidate/

IMPHAL, May 19: The Kuki National Liberation Front (KNLF) has decried the act of arson committed in their Semon camp located at Khengjoi sub-division, Chandel district.

The entire structure of the designated camp has been set on fire. It may be mentioned that the area is dominated by troops of 6th Dogra regiment and UKLF cadres.

Speaking to IFP, KNLF Information secretary, Kolphe Kuki today stated that the camp which was forcibly taken by force without proper intimation from concerned state authorities have been razed to the ground. He mentioned that two officer barracks, two ordinary barracks, officers kitchen with dining hall, ordinary kitchen, a wooden stage, five bunkers, a recreational hall and a waiting shed. Altogether, the estimate of the damage is around 30 lacs. He stated that the infrastructure was built by funds from the KNLF itself and without the help of the State government.

The camp was set afire today, it may be mentioned that the cades were forcibly relocated from the Semon camp on May 12 last. They are presently at Chelep village at the designate camp of Pakan Revolutionary Army since then, the outfit has also announced earlier that the KNLF cadres are given shelter on humanitarian grounds and gave them notification to leave within five days time.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/outfit-decries-burning-down-of-camp/

IMPHAL May 19: The government has agreed to meet two of the three demands made by the JAC formed in connection with death of student in an alleged police firing, however, roads passing through Khurai area continues to remain closed for the second day today.

The JAC had announced an indefinite closure of the IP/Pangei/Saikul road and Tinsid Road besides the Imphal-Ukhrul road since Wednesday until the government announces the termination of the police personnel involved in the incident.

A mass rally organized by the JAC was also taken out starting from Popular High School, Khurai today with people joining on as they marched ahead.

A large police force including lady police personnel intercepted the rally at Lamlong Bazar, as it was heading towards the Chief Minister`™s bungalow.

Thereafter, only eight JAC members were allowed to proceed for submission of memorandum while the rest resumed a sit in protest at Lamlong Bazar.

JAC chairman, Devendro Ngangom reported in the evening, `After an in depth discussion with the Chief Minister, deputy Chief Minister and local MLA Dr Ng Bijoy, both parties have agreed on two of the three demands of the JAC.

The demands which have been agreed upon are providing a suitable job to a family member of Konsam Kourounganba and the unconditional release of three students namely Konthoujam Vivek, Chandam Premananda and Chabungbam Manoj Singh, he said.

However on the termination demand, they insist that government cannot terminate any police officials without conducting enquiry and request for further discussion with the police officers before any such measures are taken up, Devendro Ngangom informed.

`Hence we will intensify the road blockade while we await the government to take decision on the termination of the police commandos` he announced.

According to the JAC members, in the late evening, a white Verna car came speeding along the Imphal-Ukhrul road following which, the infuriated bandh supporters hurled stones at the car.

However, the car managed to escape through a narrow lane, the said.

Meanwhile a police team led by additional SP (Ops) of Imphal East Manjit Singh has retrieved the body of Konsam Kourounganba`™s after clearing Rs 22,000 to Shija Hospital and kept the same at the JNIMS morgue.

The said case has been registered under FIR No.34(5)2015 LLI PS U/S 309/224/279/34 IPC.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/govt-agrees-to-two-demands-of-jac-in-death-of-student-in-police-firing/

IMPHAL, May 19: The government has decided to serve notice of voluntary retirement under a Voluntary Retirement Scheme to teachers of government schools who fail to produce any successful students in the BOSEM conducted Class X and COHSEM conducted Class XII exams.

According to an order issued by the deputy secretary Education (S), the voluntary retirement scheme is one of many immediate actions deemed necessary by the government after considering the poor performances of some government high schools and higher secondary schools in the recent Higher Secondary Examination 2015 and HSLC Examination, 2015, the results of which were announced on May 11 and 14 respectively.

According to the order, the Education minister had this evening chaired a meeting reviewing the performances of the government schools in the examinations.

The meeting was also attended by officials of Education (S), BoSEM, CoHSEM, RMSA, SSA, etc.

Following a detailed deliberation, the meeting decided to take up certain immediate actions on the issue, it said.

The meeting decided that all teachers posted in Government High Schools and Government Higher Secondary Schools which failed to produce any successful candidate shall be served notice for Voluntary Retirement under a VRS (Voluntary Retirement Scheme) being considered by the Government.

It was also decided that the Directorate of Education(S) will prepare a Performance Appraisal Format for all government teachers posted at government high schools and govt hr sec schools to review their performances objectively and that the posting of the teachers will be reviewed based on their Performance Appraisal so as to ensure that posting in convenient locations may be considered for good Teachers, it said.

Other decisions also include that teachers whose performances are poor, after review through the Performance Review System, will also be considered for deduction of their salaries either through withholding of one or two months`™ salaries or through withdrawal of annual increments, the modalities of which is being formulated in consultation with DP, FD, etc.

The government will also consider rewarding the good performing government teachers through the Performance Appraisal System so as to motivate and encourage the good Teachers.

Rewards may be given either in the form of advance increment or lump-sum cash awards and certificates etc., it said.

Graduate Teachers recruited under RMSA will also be considered for posting in the eight Model Government Higher Secondary Schools based on their performance to be assessed by the Directorate of Education (S), it said.

The government has also appealed to the parents, parents`™ associations, SMDCs, students unions, etc to provide positive support and encouragement to the students and teachers in the endeavour.

The order also said that the director of Education (S) will take immediate necessary action on the decision of the government within a period of one month and that the report of the Director Education (S) will be considered by a State Level Committee consisting of commissioner/secretary, Education(S) as chairman; director Education (S) as member secretary and joint secretary Education (S), secretary COHSEM, secretary BOSEM, ASPD RMSA and ASPD SSA as members.

At the same time, the report of the committee should also be submitted to the government within 15 days, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/govt-decides-voluntary-retirement-for-teachers-who-fail-to-produce-successful-students-in-board-exams/

IMPHAL, May 19: Anyone trying to defame or tarnish the image of media fraternity of the state will not be spared, said All Manipur Working Journalists`™ Union Vice President Ratan Luwangcha at a media briefing held at Manipur Press Club today.

Union President W Shamjai said that in the ongoing riots regarding the recent killing of one student by the state security force, an individual was caught posing as a reporter. He is identified as one Konsam Anthony, 20, son of K Budhajit of Khurai Lairikyengbam Leikai.

During the ongoing public agitation at Khurai today, Anthony was gathering report with a still camera on his Hero Honda Motor cycle bearing registration no MNO1D 9256 claiming to be a photojournalist of `People`™s Chronicle`™.

On receiving information from scribes gathering reports at the site, an AWMJU team rushed to the spot and found the person to be a fake reporter. He was handed over to the police without further delay.

Lamenting the incident, President Syamjai further said that the same case occurred on 15 May, in the public agitation at Patsoi where two of individuals including one non local were found capturing video footages of the riot within the curfew imposed area. Suspicious on their behavior, police enquired on them and they replied as being freelance reporters. When they failed to produce any valid papers identifying themselves as media, other press reporter present in the spot were inquired to identify them by the police. Later, they were found to be bogus scribes.

President W Shamjai said that it was regrettable that the next day, a news article was carried that those persons were doing their duty legitimately, according to a press release from Television and Film Foundation, Manipur.

Shamjai clarified that in the sensitive area where curfew and CrPc 144 was imposed, they should have identified themselves as filmmakers instead of posing as journalists.

AWMJU President warns those possessing fake press ID card and having sticker of a `PRESS`™ on vehicles. He said that those working at private printing presses are not the news reporters. He appealed that such individuals should not tarnish the image of news reporters.

Further, AWMJU General Secretary ,Jit Ningombam said that it was unfortunate the KSO has banned ISTV and Sangai Express. He calls for a dialogue with AWMJU with KSO to bring an amicable solution regarding the incident and AWMJU will try its level best to bring to an understanding on the issue.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/20year-old-held-posing-as-scribe/

IMPHAL May 19: A 45-year old has alleged NSCN (IM) cadres of thrashing him black and blue on May 18.

The man identified as Daniel Lungleng, 45 son of L Maraotho and Latheola from Challou Village, Ukhrul district is presently getting treatment at a private hospital here in Imphal.

Daniel has identified two of his assaulters as Ringphami of Pui and Ningmi of New Tusom.

Speaking to media persons from his hospital bed, Daniel said he has been actively helping in the election campaign of his brother-in-law Shimreingam A Shimray who is the Congress candidate from Chingai constituency for the upcoming Autonomous District Council election.

Further recounting his ordeal, he said, `On May 18, around 7:30am, I was hiring a Bolero jeep at Wino Bazar to return to Chingai, when these three NSCN (IM) cadres came in civil attires and held me at gun-point.`

`They put me in their Gypsy and drove off. After some time, a little ahead of Phungreitang, they changed vehicles and took me to an isolated area near a private farm house at Ikun Road` he continued.

`There they identified themselves as NSCN (IM) cadres and claimed that I had Rs 4 lakhs in my possession to be used in my brother-in-law`™s election campaign.`

`They then started demanding me to hand over the said amount to them, at which I repeatedly told them that I have no such money with me, nevertheless, two of them started hitting me with clubs` Daniel said.

`Later on they demanded to give them Rs 50000 and even threatened me with dire consequences if I don`™t pay them the amount` he recalled.

Further according to Daniel, after they thrashed him all over his lower torso, they finally decided to go to the candidate`™s house.

On reaching Shimreingam A Shimray`™s house, they found both the candidate and his wife missing and so they dragged him to the NSCN (IM)`™s regional office and Phungreitang, Daniel continued.

He further said he was released around 2 in the afternoon only when some of his family members came to the NSCN (IM) regional office.

However, the cadres demanded him to bring at least Rs 15,000 at the earliest or that he would be picked up again soon, he said.

He said since he was suffering much pain and getting weak, he was brought immediately to Imphal for treatment.

Daniel also pleaded that `The government should ensure that citizens are not intimidated tortured and traumatized in this manner by the non-State actors.`

Daniel sustained bruised marks all over his lower torso starting from his waist.

He complains of pain all over his body.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/cong-worker-alleges-nscnim-cadres-of-assaulting-him/

IMPHAL, May 19: The Manipur Alliance for Child Rights and Manipur Mahila Kalyan Samiti have made a joint appeal to the concern group to release the two boys Moirangthem Sakhenba, 13 and Yaikhom Kumdumba, 11 safely at the earliest.

The two who are students of Lilasing High School and staying at the Children Home, Dewlahland, run by Manipur Mahila Kalyan Samiti had failed to return either to the children`™s home or to their respective homes since May 9. They have remained traceless ever since, leading to apprehensions that they might have been kidnapped.

Speaking at a press conference today, MACR convenor Keisham Pradeep Kumar asserted that this is not the first of such incidents happening in the State and it is high time that the Social Welfare department form a Child Protection Committee.

Manipur being a conflict State, there is high possibilities that the two have either been recruited as child soldiers or been victims of child trafficking, he said.

The two boys are still in their tender age, he continued.

The two organisations also strongly appealed to the government to take up immediate measure to trace the whereabouts of the duo.

N Jamini, secretary told the media persons that if the concern group did not release the duo before May 25, the two organisation along with civil organisations will launch a strong agitation.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/macr-seeks-whereabouts-of-missing-children/

IMPHAL, May 19: The BJP has intensified its campaigning for the June 1 ADC polls with Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram and the party`™s national executive member Tapir Gao addressing a public meeting at the Ukhrul Town Hall today.

Speaking at the poll meeting, Tapir Gao who is also the party`™s in charge of the ADC election in Manipur said the NPF and the BJP are allies at the Centre and even though the two will be fielding their own candidates in the ADC election, both will be supporting each other in principle during formation of ADCs after the election.

He said the elected BJP members can also act as felicitators of the Naga peace process to bring an early solution.

Gao, however, cautioned the armed outfits operating in the hill districts against disturbing the democratic process of election.

He warned any act of pressuring or threatening during the ADC election process would never be the solution.

Attacking the Congress government of the State, he said although five years have passed since the last ADC election, no autonomy or devolution of power has been handed over to the elected ADC members.

Meanwhile, addressing the meeting, Oram said the Congress, which has been ruling the State for 13 long years, has been the major stumbling block in the development of the State`™s Hills districts.

It is now time for the people to shift their support to the BJP and help the party in bringing development from the grass-root level, he said.

The Union Minister also assured a `corruption-free government`™ in the State if brought to power.

All that the Congress can do is to blame the BJP of being anti-Christian or try to create rifts between the Hindus and the Muslims because they have done nothing to talk about other than loot public money, Oram asserted.

He said although the Centre is always ready to sanction any amount of money for the development of the hill districts, the Congress-led government in the State has always stood in the way and denied the funds from reaching the targeted people.

For the Centre to release funds and the funds to actually reach the targeted public there is a need to uproot this corrupt Congress government in the State, Oram said appealing to the people to give BJP a chance to win the ADC seats.

He said he has received many memorandums from the people, and most of these have been demands for more funds.

However, even if I assure to provide the funds or special packages for the hill districts it would be of no use as there is no one to monitor the utilisation of the funds, he continued.

`Give BJP a chance in the ADC election and see the changes in all hill districts.`

He quickly added if the people vote for BJP candidates, then the party can ensure direct delivery of funds to the hill districts through the ADC.

`However, if you vote for the same old Congress, then you have made a big blunder,` he continued.

Continuing to lambast the Congress government, Oram alleged that the previous Congress-led UPA had swindled huge public money amounting in crores in the infamous 2G scam.

BJP State general secretary administrative, M Asnikumar said the Congress has not allowed or undertaken a single development work in the hill areas.

Asnikumar also said that the the party`™s candidate from 44/11 Khamasom constituency SK Somi was selected and approved by the party`™s national and State leaders and as such any claim against his candidature from any insider of the party will be seriously considered by the party.

Party`™s spokesperson Soso Shaiza also urged the Union Minister to ensure full autonomy to the ADC which is enshrined under the Indian Constitution.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/bjps-tapir-gao-hints-at-post-adc-poll-alliance-with-npf/

IMPHAL, May 19: The KNLF has alleged that the BJP in collusion with another armed group, the UKLF has shifted the KNLF camp to gain political advantages in the Khengjoi area.

Speaking to IFP, Commanding Officer of the Semon camp Laldenga said that two candidate are contesting for the upcoming ADC elections under the BJP banner. The two candidates are Thongkhuthang of Torbung segment and Seithang Haokip of Songlang segment. It comes under Khengjoi sub-division of 41 Chandel assembly constituency.

He said that the two candidates are supported by the UKLF and even openly announced their support during a public campaign held recently. The candidates even have started spreading word that they have won under the patron of the mentioned outfit. But, their political objectives were hindered as the KNLF who has a strong presence in the area believes in free and fair elections. With that assurance, candidates representing the Congress party and as independent had filed nominations.

But, the BJP had colluded with the 6th Dogra Regiment and the UKLF to drive away the KNLF from the area, so that the BJP candidates would be `selected`™ and not elected, Laldenga alleged. This was perpetrated also with the help of CO of the said regiment namely one Sandeep Madan, who forcibly relocated the KNLF from Semon area on May 12 last.

Laldenga said that the real motive of their forced relocation is mostly for the political benefits and charged the state BJP of conducting pressure politics.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/knlf-alleges-political-plot-of-bjp-behind-camp-relocation/

IMPHAL, May 18: Taking into account of likelihood of causing serious breach of peace, disturbances to public tranquillity and grave danger to human lives and properties in the areas under Imphal West, District Magistrate, Imphal West in exercise of the powers conferred under Sub-Section 2 of Section 144 CrPc has prohibited assembly of five or more persons which is likely to turn unlawful.

In an order, the DM also prohibited carrying of sticks, stones, firearms and weapons of any other description or objects which can be used as offensive weapons within the said area from 6 pm of May 18 until further orders.

However, the order will not apply to the agencies of the government involved in the enforcement of law and order and the maintenance of essential services.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/crpc-144-imposed-in-imphal-west/

IMPHAL, May 18: Commerce and Industry minister Govindas Konthoujam distributed prizes to winners of the Speed Climbing Competition held at the conference hall of the Manipur Mountaineering and Training Association today.

Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony as the chief guest, Govindas Konthoujam said that the people of Manipur have lots of potential when it comes to sports and games.

For instance, even in mountaineering the climbers of the MMTA has brought laurel for the State in both national and international arenas, he said.

He claimed that the dexterity of the people of the State has been highly regarded by critics and experts of other States of India.

Expressing his appreciation on the tremendous growth of the MMTA over the years, he said that setting up a regional institute of adventure is reasonable in Manipur to further upgrade the MMTA to world class level.

The minister also assured to apprise the Chief Minister to establish the institute besides highlighting the need for allotting a permanent complex for MMTA.

The Manipur Mountaineering Institute located in Lamdan will be added with new features including a Golf Course and upgradation of the accommodation to the level of a three-star hotel, he continued.

Gonvindas Konthoujam also exhorted the youths of Manipur to compete and excel in every aspect not only in sports.

The Speed Climbing was held yesterday at the Kangla Rock and Sport Climbing Wall of MMTA in commemoration of the 2nd Anniversary of the Successful Summit of Mt. Everest by MMTA and the 50 years Golden Jubilee of Indian Mountaineers on the top of the world.

The competition was organized by MMTA in collaboration with All Manipur Working Journalists Union sponsored by the Manipur Development Society.

AMWJU`™s president, W Shamjai, said the successful summit of Mount Everest by natives of the State is a dream come true for the founder members of the MMTA adding that he assured to extend full co-operation to initiatives taken up by MMTA from time to time.

Y Samarjit Singh of Imphal Free Press, bagged the first position in the 40 years below category while W Kumarjit of ISTV and Ch Leikoiba of Pandam, bagged the second and third positions respectively.

In the 40 years above category, Ratan Luwangcha bagged the first position while Jit Ningombam of ISTV and Imo Singh of People`™s Chronicle bagged the second and third positions repectively.

In the 40 years above category for Women, Sonia Sorensangbam of Poknapham bagged the first position while S Bimola of Senmitlon and Nomita Khongbantabam of Hueyen Lanpao bagged the second and third positions respectively.

In the 40 years below category for Women, E Babina Devi of Sanaleibak bagged the first position while Nongmaithem Reena of Impact TV and Chingsubam Leisembi Chanu of Pandam, bagged the second and third positions respectively.

In each category, all the first places were awarded with Rs 10,000 cash prize, Rs 5000 for second place and Rs 3000 for third place along with citations.

The cash prizes were donated by Pradhan-Patsoi G/P N Tomba Meetei, pradhan Mayang Langjing G/P Kh Sanaton Singh, Khaonghampat G/P Pradhan Y Muhindro Singh, Lairenkabi Kadangband G/P Pradhan N Bobby Singh, Representative Thounaojam Leikai G/P Pradhan N Ratan Singh, Sapam Leikai G/P Pradhan A Bishorjit Singh, Phayeng G/P Pradhan A Gojendro Singh, Representative Channgangei G/P Pradhan L Tomna Singh, Yarou Bhamdhiyar G/P Pradhan S Punakeshwor Singh, Takyel G/P Pradhan K Somolata Devi, Lamjaotongba G/P Pradhan RK Gunisana Devi and Bijoy Govinda G/P N Rani Devi.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/govindas-hopeful-of-setting-up-regional-institute-of-adventure-in-state/

IMPHAL, May 18: A team of District Police Commando, Imphal West has conducted search operation in and around Paona Bazar on May 16 based on information received regarding movement of some active members of CoRCoM organization.
According to a release of the PRO, the search was conducted in from of Burma Watch store, Paona Bazar.

During the operation, one hardcore member of CoRCoM, namely, Md. Atao Rahman alias Atabur, 35, son of (l) Md. Tomba of Lilong Chingkham Mamang Tamya Shumang was arrested. Investigation revealed that he was involved in hurling hand grenades and planting IEDs at different Motor Vehicle dealer shops and offices located at Imphal area, it said.

On his disclosure, a combined team of District Police Commando, Imphal West and Thoubal and 40 Assam Rifles seized two numbers of Chinese hand grenades, two number of detonators and one remote control along with two batteries from the courtyard of Fountain English School, located at Lilong Chingkham Tamya Shumanf on the same day, i.e., May 16. Investigation has revealed that Md. Atao Rahman planned a major bomb blast in Imphal area, it said.

Acting on further disclosures made by Atao Rahman, a combined team of District Police I/W and 40 AR seized one rocket launcher loaded with one high explosive shell from the pump house attached to the restroom of the Imam of Mosque located at Lilong Chingkham Tamya SHumang near the school on May 16, it said.

A case has been registered at City Police Station and investigation is going on, it said.

In another release, a team of District Police Commando I/W has conducted frisking and checking at North AOC, Imphal on May 15.

During the frisking and checking, an active member of NSCN (K) organisation namely Daithuipou Gangmei alias Chamshugam, 29 son of (l) Napuna Gangmei of Duithangjang Guitang, Nungba, Tamenglong district a/p Nongmeibung Rajbari was arrested. A case has been registered at Imphal Police Station and investigation is going on, it said.

In yet another release, the Moreh Police Station Officer in charge along with police party has conducted frisking and checking near Sunrise Club Office on May 17 and arrested one active cadre of PLA organisation, namely, Mayanglambam Nganthoi Meitei alias Chinglen Nganba lias Romesh, 25, son of (l) M. Nemai Meitei of Langol Game village Zone-III.

A case has been registered at Moreh Police Station and investigation is going on, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/corcom-nscn-k-cadres-nabbed/

IMPHAL, May 18: The BJP led NDA government at the Centre has decided that all development sanctions under the 14th Finance Commission, will be made directly to panchayats and municipal councils and not through the State, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram said today.

He was addressing an election campaign for BJP candidates of Chandel ADC at the Senapati district Head Quarter Public Ground.

Oram said he was in the district to appeal to the people of Senapati to elect the BJP candidates.

He said the party`™s elected members can directly approach the Prime Minister for development funds.

If the BJP candidates win the ADC election, Oram said he will directly apprise the Central government of the people`™s grievances.

The government will provide more funds for the development of tribals if the BJP candidates are elected in the ADC, however, electing the Congress candidates will mean that we cannot help much to improve the condition of Manipur, he observed.

`On my reaching Senapati, people have made demands for funds for development of the tribals`, he observed.

However, even if the Centre releases funds, who can take full responsibility that the funds will reach the people, he demanded.

BJP is for the poor and needy people, he said elaborating that the party`™s leaders have themselves experience poverty.

And the tribals`™ desire to see that funds meant for them are properly utilised can be achieved only if the BJP wins the election, he continued.

On the other hand, leaders of the Congress party come from rich families and as such have no consideration for the people belonging to the schedule tribes, schedule caste and other minority groups, he asserted.

Under the Congress government, the welfare of ST, SC and OBCs were club together with that of Animal Welfare under one ministry- Ministry of Social Justice, he claimed.

It was the NDA government under Atal Bihari Vajpayee that set up a separate Tribal Affairs Ministry, he asserted.

The Congress has never treated the downtrodden as equals, he continued.

The National Commission for Schedule Tribes had only three members but it was increased to five when Tapir Gao was the secretary, he said.

He said huge funds are sanctioned through the National Commission for Schedule Tribes which are misused by the State government.

Oram said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened the nationalised banks for all citizens of India through the Jan Dhan Yojna, he said.

The party`™s State president Th Chaoba said lotus of the BJP has begun to bloom in the hills today.

There was time when no one from the minority groups would enroll for the party, but now more than a lakh has enrolled themselves with the party during its online membership drive in the State, Chaoba claimed.

In the past no one wanted BJP tickets to contest the ADC election, but now the party received 340 applications for the 144 seats available, he said.

BJP, Manipur Pradesh general secretart (media) laimayum Basanta Sharma alleged that the Centre had sanctioned Rs 1118 crore for the tribals of the State, however, the State government is yet to provide the utilization certificates of the funds.

Today`™s meeting was also attended by BJP National general secretary Tapir Gao, and other party leaders from the State including Dr Borababu, M Bhorot, Mahila president Pramodini, general secretary Mahila, state secretary of BJP.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/centre-will-sanction-funds-directly-to-local-governing-bodies-jual-oram/

IMPHAL, May 18: The BJP wants to overthrow the Congress government in the State and bring peace, harmony and development, asserted Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiran Rijiju today.

Addressing an election campaign for the BJP at Chandel today, the MoS said as long as there is Congress rule in the State, the people will continue to suffer pain and agony.

He said, his ministry receives reports of bandhs, blockades, dharna, etc in the State every day.

This is a clear indication of lack of good governance in the State, he asserted.

The Congress party has damaged Manipur and it will take several years to get back, he said appealing to the people not to give another chance to Congress.

He said the people should overthrow Congress and bring BJP to power for which it is important for the BJP to do well in the upcoming Autonomous District Council Election.

Although the government is there is protect and take care of the society and its people, the present Congress government has totally failed to fulfill the expectations of the public, he said.

Rijiju said Manipur is a beautiful State with a vast pool of resources. Its people have the potential to excel in many fields, however, the government has failed miserably in tapping all this resources and potential of the people, he said.

Road connectivity in the State is in a deplorable condition, he said adding that people are facing difficulties in their movement.

In such a scenario, the people in the remote areas and the hills especially must be facing many problems, he said.

Now is the time to teach the Congress government a lesson, he said appealing to the people to support the BJP in the ADC election.

`Our motto is not only to be in the government, our motto is to serve the people,` he stated before assuring that all possible steps will be taken up to develop the entire North East.

At the same time, he appealed to armed outfits operating in the State to return to normalcy.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/bjp-wants-to-overthrow-congress-and-bring-peace-in-the-state-rijiju/

IMPHAL, May 18: A double bench of the High Court of Manipur comprising of Justice Laxmikanta Mohapatra and Justice N Kotishwar has directed the Manipur government to allot a space in Greater Imphal area for people to assemble and hold peaceful protests.

The order has to be complied within three weeks from today.

The order came after a petition was filed to the High Court of Manipur by a member of Aam Aadmi Party, Digen Singh last year.

The petition was moved in court as the State government did not comply to the order of the then Governor of Manipur , VK Duggal to provide a space near the southern portion of Sahid Minar near Pologround or somewhere in Imphal, to enable the public for sit in protest, dharna, public speech etc. The order number GSM/Gen-8/2008 (Pt VII) was referred to the chief secretary on May 16 of last year.

According to the memorandum submitted by Digen Singh , the public has the right to assemble peacefully without arms and under the Constitution of India the right to freedom of expression.

It said in Manipur there are frequent agitations, and picketing occurs in front of the CM`™s bungalow, Governor`™s residence and other major crowded streets. During such times, unwanted incidents happen as tussle between the security forces and agitators constantly occur, violence is a fallout of such situations.

The need is there to tackle such scenarios and provide a common space for people to express themselves and protest peacefully, it said.

`As we are providing space for parks, gardens, playgrounds etc. we may provide a small space in the heart of Imphal in order to allow ventilation of thoughts and ideas of common people, intellectuals etc. So, the government of Manipur may kindly consider to provide a space for any meeting of public speech, protests etc. to avail fundamental rights under the constitution with reasonable restrictions,`™ it said.

The memorandum also cites that Delhi has Jantar Mantar, where citizens are allowed to gather peacefully and express their opinions.

The memorandum was reciprocated by the Governor, and forwarded to the chief secretary of Manipur.

However, despite the directive of the Governor, was not acknowledged by the State government. The AAP member Digen Sigh then petitioned to the High Court of Manipur as why the order has not been complied with.

The order was given today by the division bench that the space should be allocated within three weeks by the State Government.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/hc-orders-state-to-provide-space-for-peaceful-agitations/

KANGPOKPI, May 18: Enforcing the ban imposed on Imphal based leading newspaper The Sangai Express and ISTV News Channel by Kuki Students`™ Organization GHQ the student body in Sadar Hills burnt down all the copies of The Sangai Express mean for distributing at Kangpokpi in full public view at around 7:30 am this morning.

Some volunteers of KSO Sadar Hills took all The Sangai Express copies from Zalaileng News Service Centre, Kangpokpi and burnt down in front of the news centre in full public view.

KSO Sadar Hills president Thangminlen Kipgen said that the KSO GHQ decision to ban the newspaper and the local television news channel is justifiable and accepted by all tribal people in hill district while adding that the people have been very much aware of the unethical journalism by the two media house and favoritism in reporting performance with respect to the Haorang Kairel killing incident and Thingsat killings.

He also said that ISTV News Channel will be closed from today in the town and cautioned the people not to subscribe the said printed and electronic media in the interest of the ethical journalism in the state.

Thangminlen Kipgen also warned that every morning volunteers will check every bus and vehicles transporting the ban newspaper in town and if anyone found violating the diktak suitable action will be taken accordingly while urging the bus association of Senapati district not to engage in transporting the said paper.

While appealing to all ISTV operator and subscribers in the town to disconnect the channel the student body president also warned to initiate proper action to those who violated it.

Meanwhile, The Sangai Express subscribers of Zalaileng News Service Centre, Kangpokpi asked the news hawkers to replace their subscription with another daily which makes a restless day for the News Centre staffs.

Source from Zalaileng News Service Centre, Kangpokpi said that there are more than 100 subscribers of The Sangai Express both English and Manipur Edition while adding that it is the largest subscribed and circulated daily in the town.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/kso-sh-burns-copies-of-tse-at-kangpokpi-warns-to-unsubscribe/

IMPHAL, May 18: Strong interference are meted out from underground outfits and pressurizing candidates of the upcoming ADC elections to either back away from contesting and to support their sponsored candidate.

The situation is prevalent in many ADC segments of the Sadar Hills jurisdiction, the political manipulation is mostly perpetrated by underground outfits who are presently in suspension of operations with the State and Central government. This was the main point of contention raised by many village elders, village chiefs of Purum Likli which comes under Mapao ADC segment of Sadar Hills. A flag hoisting function of BJP candidate of the said segment, namely Kaikam Kom today was held today at Purum Likli. Speaking at the occasion, President of the Komrem Union, Serto Kom said that the Union condemns the harassment meted out by the organizations to the candidates who are not sponsored by them. `We condemn the harassment and the forced politics favoritism in this area,` he added that elections should be free and fair.

Further adding to the charges, the BJP candidate Kaikam Kom lamented that the public of the area has not been able to exercise their voting rights. They are either intimidated by certain unlawful organizations to vote for their sponsored candidate and for other candidates to back away from contesting. `There is no peace during election time, politics are forced on the public, our democratic rights have been violated,`Kaikum said.

He mentioned that during the last election, he wanted to contest but was made to drop from campaigning as certain highly influential individuals had pressured him to do so. `We should not bow in to intimidation, I have been threatened this time also but I am not afraid. In the interest of the NGOs, I left the election last time as the candidate would win uncontested. This time, the public is behind me,` Kaikam added that no organizations are backing him but only the pressure of the public encourages him to stand for elections this time. `Unlike last time, there will be no `selection`™ and the choice of the people should be respected.` he said.

He highlighted that the elected ADCs are riding in swanky vehicles and questioned where the money for such luxury is coming from: an ADC member is given Rs 10,000 as salary for a month. `Are they public representatives or someone else`™s, let us not give in to the pressure and it is time that the public no longer remain afraid to exercise their democratic right.` he said.

It was learnt that an underground organization had threatened the candidate recently and asked him to bring an amount of Rs 10,000 to their designated camp.

The ceremony was attended by former minister C Doungel, BJP Yuva Morcha vice president; Ramthar Zimik, BJP president of Sadar Hills; Thangkholen Kipgen, Chairman of election committee; Campminthang and Emerson Bapui; Pastor of Purum Likli among other dignitaries.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/05/pressure-politics-at-sadar-hills-adc-elections-bjp-candidate-cries-foul/