Addl SP Ibomcha depose before court in Khwairamband Keithel fake-encounter case

IMPHAL, August 27: Five years after the Khwairamband Bazar fake encounter, additional SP (Operations) of Thoubal District Police, Sarangthem Ibomcha Singh has deposed before the Sessions Judge, Manipur East today

IMPHAL, August 27: Five years after the Khwairamband Bazar fake encounter, additional SP (Operations) of Thoubal District Police, Sarangthem Ibomcha Singh has deposed before the Sessions Judge, Manipur East today as a prosecution witness.

The alleged encounter had injured five persons and had resulted in the death of Chungkham Sanjit and Th Rabina in July 23, 2009.

Ibomcha in his deposition stated that there was no record of the number of ammunition consumed by each commando personnel implicated in the case except for commando Md Imran.

He was given six rounds and they were all spent.

Ibomcha mentioned that the armoury staff should have written the number of ammunition consumed by each commando personnel.

He also stated that during the course of the investigation and examination of sub-inspector K Punshiba, head constable Keshor Singh, havildar Jagat Singh and head-constable Binoy Kumar, did not state if they had fired any rounds with the fire arms issued to them.

He also stated that he did not know the reason for their suspension. But, on August 5, 2009, he came to know the 8th M R Commandant had notified that havildar Th. Jagat Singh and rifleman Toiyaima had been suspended from service.

Similarly, he said he is not aware of the reasons for the suspension of of rifleman Imran Khan’s suspension later through the 5th IRB Commandant.

In his deposition at Cheirap Court today as prosecution witness number 58, Ibomcha said that he has inspected the ten seizure memos given by the then officer in charge Y Munal Singh and other concerned police officers.

The seizure list was prepared within July 23, 2009 and August 20, 2009. The memo includes four 9mm pistol, 3 sub-machine guns (carbines), four AK rifles along with empty cases and live rounds.

It may be mentioned that the city police station had taken up case under FIR no. 75(7) 2009 city police station under section 302/326/307/506 of the IPC, 17/20 UA (P) Act and 25 (I-B) Arms Act. But, after the Tehelka magazine report on August 1, 2009, the city police station took up another case under FIR number 82(8)2009 under 302/34 of the IPC under section 27 (B) of the Arms Act. The case was investigated by additional SP S Ibomcha Singh before being handed over to additional SP (prosecution) S Chaoba Singh

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/addl-sp-ibomcha-depose-before-court-in-khwairamband-keithel-fake-encounter-case/

MHFW directs newly appointed RIMS director to force open his office room within 24 hours

Imphal, August 27: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed RIMS director Dr Ch Arunkumar to open the room of former director Dr Sekharjit in the presence

Imphal, August 27: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed RIMS director Dr Ch Arunkumar to open the room of former director Dr Sekharjit in the presence of Deputy Director (A) and representative(s) of the local police and District Magistrate.

The directive however served notice to the dismissed director, Dr. Sekharjit, through the newspapers, to come on his own accord to open the room so as to prevent the earlier alternative.

A directive from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (North East Section) states that news may be published in local newspapers to the effect that former RIMS director Dr Sekharjit Singh has kept the office room of RIMS director under lock and key on August 26 and his whereabouts are not known.

The directive said, Dr. Sekharjit is thereby informed through the newspapers that he should come and open the office room of the RIMS Director within 24 hours from the publishing of the news in the newspaper, failing which the room would be opened by the current Director in the present of Deputy Director (A) and the representative(s) of the local police and District Magistrate, added the directive.

The directive said the matter has been considered carefully in the ministry and it has been decided with the approval of Secretary (H&EW) and action may be taken immediately.

The directive also said an FIR is to be lodged with the police station and the District Magistrate informed of the incident. A copy of is also to be sent to the District Magistrate with a request for permission for opening of the lock of the office of the Director, RIMS Imphal.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/mhfw-directs-newly-appointed-rims-director-to-force-open-his-office-room-within-24-hours/

Habit of splintering organisations impair any mass movement, says former AMSU president

IMPHAL, August 27: Commemorating the four students who laid down their lives during an agitation against artificial scarcity of rice in Manipur on this day 49 years ago, the All

IMPHAL, August 27: Commemorating the four students who laid down their lives during an agitation against artificial scarcity of rice in Manipur on this day 49 years ago, the All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU) led the students of the State in paying homage to the four student ‘martyrs’ of the historic “Hunger Marchers Movement” or “Chaklam Khongchat” of August 27, 1965 by observing the 49th Hunger Marchers’ Day at Pishum Chingamacha.

The observance started with renderings of Yakairol at Pishum Ching from the early morning. Later, floral tributes were paid to the four martyred students namely Oinam Nabakumar, Laishram Chaobal, Nongmeikapam Pramodini and Waikhom Nilamani at their memorial located atop the Pishum Chinga Macha.

AMSU president Th Naresh unfurled the flag of the students’ body at the memorial site to commemorate the event.

Thousands of students of the State and family members of the four martyrs attended the function. Later after paying floral tributes, a rally was also organised to mark the occasion from Pishum Chingamacha to DM College Auditorium, where a meeting was held.

The rally started from Pishum Chingamacha Memorial and after passing Pishumthong, Keisamthong, Wahengbam Leikai, Nagamapal, Khuyathong, Thangmeiband concluded at DM College Multipurpose Hall.

Speaking as the chief guest during the observation, former AMSU president Prof Irom Gambhir said that commemorating the day is important for everyone, especially the students for them, to acknowledge the supreme sacrifice made by the four martyred students and students of those days.

He said that the day was observed to commemorate the struggle for righteousness, and added that since a long time back, students have played an important role.

However, the teachers or lecturers in any institution could not raise their voices against the lack of facilities, Prof Gambhir said, this failure to raise voice for legitimate demands is not a good omen.

He stated that regular principals must be appointed in schools and colleges under the guidelines of UGC. However, in the State since many years ago, the State government has failed to appoint regular principals, he said, adding it is high time to discuss how government teachers lag behind in their teaching methods from private school teachers.

The era we live in is one in which means of communication has reached its zenith but corruption level is also quite high, he stated, and moreover the people of the State have the habit of dividing any kind of organisations into two instead of remaining united which invariably impair any mass movement.

AMSU president Th Naresh said that the present generation could not envision the changes which have occurred in the society and the contributions made by the past generations.

He noted that the students’ agitation over the scarcity of food which was witnessed in 1965 was against the clandestine export of rice from the State to other states. Manipur was once a self sufficient State in terms of food production, he added.

However, the situation has changed today and people are on the verge of starvation if food products are not imported from other states for a few days. In such a situation, one needs to find the root cause of the problem, Naresh said.

Meanwhile, the 49th Hunger Marcher’s Day, organised by the All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU), District Committee, Jiribam, was observed today at the Jiribam Higher Secondary School Auditorium Hall.

In relation with the 49th Hunger Marcher’s Day, a rally was organised by taking out processions with palanquins carrying photos of Nilkamal, Laishram Chaobal, Oinam Naba Kumar and N. Promodini who died during the historic event of Manipur in 1965. The day is observed to commemorate the supreme sacrifice given by the four brave souls of Manipur.

The observation was attended by S. Maniton Singh, General Secretary, Senior Citizen Society Jiribam; Y. Sanjiv Singh, President AMSU, District Committee, Jiribam and KH. Haridash Singh, Founder Secretary, AMSU, Jiri Branch, Ph. Gyanendro Singh, Ex- President, AMSU District Committee, Jirbam as the chief guest, president and guest of honours respectively.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/habit-of-splintering-organisations-impair-any-mass-movement-says-former-amsu-president/

Jadonang’s struggle has its relevancy to this day: CorCom

IMPHAL, August 27: The sacrifice made by the brave Haipou Jadonang for ushering a better future for his community, and his struggle against the colonial regime has become more relevant

IMPHAL, August 27: The sacrifice made by the brave Haipou Jadonang for ushering a better future for his community, and his struggle against the colonial regime has become more relevant today, said a statement of the Coordination Committee, a conglomerate of six proscribed organisations of Manipur, namely: KCP, KYKL, PREPAK, PREPAK (Pro), RPF & UNLF.

The statement signed by its media coordinator, H Poirei has paid revolutionary salute to Jadonang on his 83rd death anniversary which is on August 29. Praising Jadonang for his pioneering leadership role he played for Kabui community in particular and Manipur in general, while fighting against the British, it said Jadonang’s struggle was towards achieving sovereignty of the land.

Recalling that Jadonang was born to Thiudai and Tabonliu in Kambiron village of Tamenglong, in the year 1905, when British colonial rule prevailed over Manipur following the 1891 battle, it said Jadonang grew up to be an upright patriot.

The statement continued that Jadonang stood against oppressive decrees of the then colonial British and the King, who forced upon hill people to do hard manual jobs like carrying their loads; collecting undue taxes from households etc.

It continued that Jadonang firm stand gave a clarion call against the human right violations meted out to the people, and thereby gave an impetus to anti-colonial struggle. Jadonang unmasked the sinister designs of colonialism by following the indigenous culture and religion, Jadonang had a firm belief that he could save his countrymen from the colonial yoke, said the statement.

Further, the statement said Jadonang’s action of mobilising his countrymen against the British became a big headache for the coloniser. Accordingly, the British hatched a plan to capture Jadonang by giving false charges to him. Jadonang was captured on February 19, 1928 from Binakandi, Cachar.

Adding that Jadonang was tried by the then political agent JC Higgins, who acted as both judge and prosecutor, charged him with IPC Section 302/109 and 320/149, without giving any opportunity to defend himself; the statement maintained that Jadonang was hanged to death on August 29, 1931 near the bank of Nambool River in a hasty manner.

Had Jadonang been alive for a longer time, without getting caught by the British, the history of anti-colonial struggle would have taken a different course, it said.

The statement continued that there is an urgent need to follow the footsteps of Jadonang by today’s generation, whose ideals were based on indigenous and cultural moorings. It said the colonial legacy of the British is still being practiced by India; therefore it is important to fight against the colonial oppression with the same ideals of Jadonang.

Further continuing that the Indian colonial regime has been trying to erase the rich indigenous imprints of this land from the surface of the earth, it said there is no other way, except furthering the anti-colonial struggle with a united force of the people. This will be a true tribute to Jadonang, the statement added.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/jadonangs-struggle-has-its-relevancy-to-this-day-corcom/

KNLF bans other rival Kuki organisations

Imphal Aug 27: The Kuki National Liberation Front (KNLF) has banned the Kuki People’s Forum, Kuki Chief’s Association (KCA), Thadou Students’ Association (TSA), Kuki Students’ Organization (KSO), Kuki Women Human

Imphal Aug 27: The Kuki National Liberation Front (KNLF) has banned the Kuki People’s Forum, Kuki Chief’s Association (KCA), Thadou Students’ Association (TSA), Kuki Students’ Organization (KSO), Kuki Women Human Rights, said KNLF secretary Lalmoi i on Wednesday.

Speaking to media persons, KNLF secretary Lalmoi stated that most of the Kuki Civil Organisations of Chandel have been instigated by the United Kuki Liberation Army (UKLF) and they are working against the interests of the people, so KNLF has decided to ban them.

KNLF has taken this decision after giving a lot of thought that most of the Kuki Civil Organization leaders are dictated by the UKLF and they are working against public interest and have started to issue a notification without informing the general headquarters, added Lalmoi.

KNLF has lots of regards for the Chiefs’ association and civil organisation of Chandel district but if they can be easily swayed by UKLF, KNLF will not remain a silent spectator, he said, adding that if leaders of civil organisation go against KNLF or if oppose the front then they will be rewarded capital punishments.

It is a very unfortunate that some civil organisations opposed KNLF due to the instigation of UKLF which is totally against the interests of the people of Chandel, Lalmoi said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/knlf-bans-other-rival-kuki-organisations/

Fuel trucks to arrive today

IMPHAL, August 27: Trucks will be arriving under escort tomorrow from Khatkhatti. 37 tankers loaded with diesel, 49 petrol tankers, 27 tankers of kerosene, 4 trucks of ATF, and 41

IMPHAL, August 27: Trucks will be arriving under escort tomorrow from Khatkhatti. 37 tankers loaded with diesel, 49 petrol tankers, 27 tankers of kerosene, 4 trucks of ATF, and 41 LPG bullets will arrive tomorrow.

The convoy also has 18 petrol tankers and 9 tankers of diesel of BPCL, one ESSAR tanker of petrol left Khatkhatti today at midnight along with FCI trucks nearing approximately 100 numbers.

Transport of the fuel and other essential supplies remained cut off for the last 2 days as the truckers protested the taxes and ill treatment meted by police along the highway.

The Dimapur Municipal Council along with the truckers were reassured by the concerned DGP to look into the plight of the truckers within a week’s time and the cease work protest was called off.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/fuel-trucks-to-arrive-today/

Political committee defers ILPS meeting

IMPHAL, August 27: The all political party meeting which is scheduled to be held on August 28 to discuss the legalities of the Inner Line Permit has been differed on

IMPHAL, August 27: The all political party meeting which is scheduled to be held on August 28 to discuss the legalities of the Inner Line Permit has been differed on August 30, according to a highly reliable source.

It may be mentioned that the meeting to be held on the August 28 was resolved by the chairman of the all political party committee on ILPS, MPCC president Gaikhangam held in his office.

The source added that the meeting has been differed as the convenor of the committee MLA RK Anand is presently out of station.

The meeting to be held on August 30 is supposed to be attended by 3 representatives from the All Manipur Bar Association, High Court of Manipur Bar Association and from the Manipur University.

But, there has not been any notification tendered to the mentioned to attend the meeting till the filing of this report. However, some political leaders met home minister Gaikhangam today.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/political-committee-defers-ilps-meeting/

RIMS director Dr Sekharjit removed prematurely from post

IMPHAL, August 26: Prof L Sekharjit Singh has been removed prematurely from the post of director, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS). The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued

IMPHAL, August 26: Prof L Sekharjit Singh has been removed prematurely from the post of director, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS).

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued an order to this effect on August 25.

It may be mentioned that Prof Sekharjit took charge as director of RIMS on September 14, 2010 and his tenure was to expire on September 13, 2015.

The order signed by a deputy secretary of the ministry said the director has been “relieved of his duty as director with immediate effect,” and that Prof Chongtham Arunkumar will take charge of the post.

The new director officially took charge of the post at 1 pm today at the RIMS administrative block.

Chongtham Arunkumar is a present professor of the Department of Orthopedics and hails from Singjamei Mathak Chongtham Leikai.

It may be mentioned that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has lodged a case against Sekharjit on charges of corruption regarding irregularities in the supply of dental chairs and other misappropriations.

According to sources, the CBI has submitted the FIR copy to the District and Sessions Judge, Manipur East on May 23, 2014.

The non-bailable case bears number Criminal Miscellaneous case number 41 of 2014 reference RC number 6 (A) 2014/IMP under section 120-B, 420 of the Indian Penal Code, read with 13 (2)/13 (1) (D), Prevention of Corruption Act.

Other respondents in the case also include Dr Rajiv Ratna Singh who is professor of Dental College, chief accounts officer Elangbam Devendro, professor H Shanti Singh of Anesthesia department and Lal Gopal of M/S Mukherjee Enterprise, Thakur Road, Kolkotta.

Mukherjee Enterprise is the supplier of dental chairs.

The CBI represents the State as the petitioner in the case and sources said that more investigation is underway to frame a charge sheet against Dr. Sekharjit.

It may also be mentioned that there is another CBI case against former RIMS director, Prof. L Fimate.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/rims-director-dr-sekharjit-removed-prematurely-from-post/

Sankirtana’s inscription in UNESCO list celebrated

IMPHAL, August 26: State Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today attended the felicitation function of the “Inscription of Sankritana in the Representative List of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

IMPHAL, August 26: State Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today attended the felicitation function of the “Inscription of Sankritana in the Representative List of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity at Shri Shri Bijoy Govindajee Mandap, Sagolband, Imphal.

The function which also saw felicitation of 17 individuals who were actively involved in submitting the nomination of Sankirtana to UNESCO was organised by the State Art and Culture department.

Speaking at the function, the Chief Minister said we are indebted to our forefathers who had left such a rich cultural heritage for us.

People, especially the experts and gurus should work together to gain more recognition of our cultural richness throughout the world, he said.

Ibobi said the inscription of the Sankritana in the representative list of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage of humanity is no small feat.

The Sankirtana also helps in ensuring peaceful-co-existence and spreading peace in the land, he said.

Further in his speech, he said after the inscription of Sankirtana in the list, our duty towards safeguarding it has only grown bigger.

Sankirtana is the start and it should not be the end, he observed before expressing the need to include ‘Lai Haroaba’ in the list and to gain worldwide recognition of the cultural heritage of the different communities residing in the State.

It may be mentioned that the nomination for Sankirtana was submitted to UNESCO in 2009 and it was inscribed in the representative list of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2013.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/sankirtanas-inscription-in-unesco-list-celebrated/

Highways in Manipur to be completely developed within six months: State BJP

Imphal, August 26: The Union Surface Transport and Shipping Minister has assured to sanction Rs15, 000 crores for the completion of National Highways in Manipur connecting with the rest of

Imphal, August 26: The Union Surface Transport and Shipping Minister has assured to sanction Rs15, 000 crores for the completion of National Highways in Manipur connecting with the rest of India. The development work on the highways will be completed within six months from today, said Union Surface Transport and Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari.

In a meeting with senior leaders of BJP Manipur Pradesh led by Dr Borababu and nine other delegates at around 1: 30 pm today at the Transport Bhawan, the Union Surface Transport and Shipping Minister said he will see to it that the development work on the National Highways of Manipur is completed within six months by sanctioning Rs 15,000 crores.

The nine State BJP delegates who were present along with Dr Borababu were former party president Sh Shantikumar, S Tikendra, S Rajen, Th Shyamo, T Shayamacharan, Michael Gangmei, N Ratan, Y Khemchand and Dr S Dhananjoy.

A highly placed source said that they discussed the present condition of the National Highways which are in abysmal conditions and at the mercy of the seasons with Gadkari.

During the meeting, it is reported that Gadkari informed the delegate that he had already taken a decision to develop the National Highways of Manipur within six months by sanctioning Rs 15,000 crore.

Meanwhile, the delegates submitted a memorandum reminding the Union Transport Minister of the cherished dream of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpaye who assured the people of the State to extend the Super Highway from Silchar to Moreh, and thereby connect it to the Expressway from Saurastra in Gujarat to Silchar in Assam.

The Jiribam to Imphal stretch which is currently a distance of 220 Km in a mountainous terrain will be shortened by means of tunnels by about 70 Kms, it said.

Gadkari has also assured that the dream of the former PM will be realised soon.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/highways-in-manipur-to-be-completely-developed-within-six-months-state-bjp/

Truck set ablaze for ignoring quarry restriction

IMPHAL, August 26: Volunteers of the Sekmai Protection Committee and the Advance Women Society Sekmai along with other locals of Sekmai area set ablaze a sand laden truck for quarrying

IMPHAL, August 26: Volunteers of the Sekmai Protection Committee and the Advance Women Society Sekmai along with other locals of Sekmai area set ablaze a sand laden truck for quarrying against their restriction at the Imphal River.

The truck bearing regd number MN 03 1093 is said to be from Khongampat area; however, its owner’s identity could not be ascertained till the filling of this report.

Volunteers of the two bodies caught the truck quarrying sand from the Sekmai area of Imphal River this morning around 9.45.

Speaking to media persons, president of the committee, Rajesh said ferrying and quarrying activities in Sekmai area had been restricted since sometime back.

During routine checking around 8:45 am today, volunteers saw the truck quarrying sand from the river bed and at once informed the committee and the women society, he said.

Soon a large mob gathered around the truck near the Hotel Pan at the National Highway 2 approach road from Sekmai Khwairakpam, he said.

The public later conveyed a meeting at Sekmai over the incident.

Rajesh said the incident was unfortunate.

He said ignoring the restriction against quarrying activities in the area by civil organisations and locals, this truck was found quarrying sand.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/truck-set-ablaze-for-ignoring-quarry-restriction/

Two killed, several injured in separate road mishaps

IMPHAL, August 26: Two men were killed while ten others were injured in two separate road mishaps in the State since yesterday. A passenger of a Tata Sumo was killed

IMPHAL, August 26: Two men were killed while ten others were injured in two separate road mishaps in the State since yesterday.

A passenger of a Tata Sumo was killed while nine others were injured when it skidded down a gorge at the Old Cachar Road in Bishnupur this morning around 7:30.

The vehicle was coming from Joujangtek in Nungba sub-division, Tamenglong towards Bishnupur.

The victim has been identified as Lunkhogin Haokip, 57, son of Hegom Haokip of Jouangtek.

According to family members of the victim, the Tata Sumo had left with 11 passengers on board for Bishnupur.

After driving around seven kilometer towards Bishnupur, there was a landslide and in order to avoid it, the driver tried to manoeuvre his vehicle along the roadside on the side of the gorge, but in the process fell around 50 feet into the gorge, the family maintained.

Lunkhogin died on the spot, they said.

On the other hand, the injured passengers were brought to the Bishnupur District Hospital around 12:05 pm.

Of the nine, the condition of four deteriorated and had to be referred to RIMS.

Meanwhile, another accident left a 56 year old dead, while the driver of a two-wheeler is undergoing treatment at the Intensive Care Unit, Shija Hospital.

Around 8pm last night, 56 year old Huidrom Tolamu, 56 son of (L) H Mangijao Singh was hit by a motorcycle at Keishampat Junction.

He was rushed to the hospital but could not be saved and succumbed to his injuries.

On the other hand the driver of the motorcycle is also presently undergoing treatment at the ICU of the Shija Hospital.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/two-killed-several-injured-in-separate-road-mishaps/

Ukhrul DC not to allow breach of peace or misconduct by police

By R Lester Makang UKHRUL, August 26: Maintaining that the strategic deployment of increased State security forces in Ukhrul district headquarters is to basically pre-empt any untoward situation in the

By R Lester Makang

UKHRUL, August 26: Maintaining that the strategic deployment of increased State security forces in Ukhrul district headquarters is to basically pre-empt any untoward situation in the aftermath of the assassination of an ADC member on July 12 last, the deputy commissioner Hrisheekesh Modak, has on Tuesday said that the security measure is equally to protect the civilians while maintaining peaceful atmosphere in the town.

The DC disclosed this during an interaction with media persons at his office chamber this evening.

He said that there is no cause for apprehension among the public on account of the presence of security forces. He also said no untoward cases of harassment by the security forces have been reported so far.

He nevertheless assured that his administration would not stand any breach of peace on the part of the security personnel, adding that any such cases, if they do happen, should be immediately brought to his notice.

Reiterating that the township is peaceful and that his administration is closely keeping tabs on the current situation, he further informed that his priority is to ensure public safety while maintaining law and order.

Incidentally, this assurance came in the midst of growing apprehension among the public that the security forces might go on a violent spree and commit excesses against the innocent civilians any time.

Meanwhile, deploring the unfortunate incident of bashing up of Ukhrul SDPO and his driver while on duty in good faith on Sunday evening, DC Modak appealed to all to refrain from breaking the prevailing peaceful atmosphere in the town.

 

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/ukhrul-dc-not-to-allow-breach-of-peace-or-misconduct-by-police/

“Scientists will eventually curb climate change”

IMPHAL, Aug 26: There will be a shortage of food if anything affects agricultural activities in a country where people depend heavily on agriculture, stated Manipur University Vice-Chancellor Prof H

IMPHAL, Aug 26: There will be a shortage of food if anything affects agricultural activities in a country where people depend heavily on agriculture, stated Manipur University Vice-Chancellor Prof H Nandakumar Sharma while speaking as the president of an awareness programme on ‘Climate change in Agriculture’ at the premises of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research in Lamphel today. The awareness programme was organised under the guidance of National Initiative on Climate Resilient Agriculture.

Scientists are finding ways to curb climate change and will eventually succeed, he said, however, the main difficulty is controlling natural calamities which are unpredictable. Predicting climate is way too difficult, he added.

Prof Nandakumar said deforestation, the world over, has led climatic uncertainty, manifesting in unnaturally heavy rains, droughts etc. One of the major reasons for such cumulative effect on the climate is energy production, power generation etc, he added.

The Vice-Chancellor of MU further stated that there are lots of fluctuations in climate, so there is a need to find out the crops which can grow in different kinds of climate.

The awareness programme graced by the State Agricultural Minister Abdul Nasir as the chief guest was attended by many cultivators from various districts of the State. A demonstration of various machines, followed by discussions, was also conducted as part of the programme.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/scientists-will-eventually-curb-climate-change/

CSOs garner support for Sharmila with rally

IMPHAL, August 26: The Women Action for Development organised a mass rally against the ‘torture and inhuman treatment of Irom Chanu Sharmila’ from Basket Ground, Nahabam, Brahmapur Leikai. The rally

IMPHAL, August 26: The Women Action for Development organised a mass rally against the ‘torture and inhuman treatment of Irom Chanu Sharmila’ from Basket Ground, Nahabam, Brahmapur Leikai.

The rally participated by womenfolk of the locality commenced at around noon and was followed by a public meeting at Wangkhei Multipurpose Community Hall, Wangkhei Keithel Asangbi, where the rally participants gathered after the rally.

The meeting was jointly organised by WAD, NEDF, WEJ, IRDA, NLF, CNPW, KCWWA, COWF, VWCOC, HAWA, SAVE, ABFC, DVSF, SSG, EEMA, CWD, UNM-M, CSD, KLYC, LWWK, PWWS, TNMP, KCLWDA, RLP, SADO, KKLMPPl and RUCHI.

At the opening of the public meeting, WAD secretary Sobita Mangsatabam in her keynote said that in the way back when Mahatma Gandhi fasted his demands were tabled and discussed in high level political tables.

She continued that it was undesirable that when Irom Sharmila fasted for the last 13 years demanding repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, it has not been even considered.

President Kuki Womens Union, Manipur Rose Mangshi Haokip who was present in the public meeting as a dais member said the continuous drama of re-arresting Sharmila needs to be stopped now.

She said that Sharmila has the right to live like normal beings among us.

What Sharmila is doing is for the betterment of the public and not for herself, she said.

She called for a collective show of support to Sharmila’s movement irrespective of hills or valley.

President All Manipur Bar Association (AMBA) and advocate High Court, Manipur Khaidem Mani condemned the excessive action of the State security forces against Irom Sharmila during her recent re-arrest from her temporary agitation site.

He said Sharmila is someone who has kept her words of pure fasting by not even using water to wash her mouth.

The public meeting was also attended by former Principal of Manipur College and general secretary of Senior Citizen Society Manipur Prof L Sadananda, President Rongmei Women Union Panti Golmei and JCILPS women wing convenor L Nganbi.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/csos-garner-support-for-sharmila-with-rally/

ILP sit in protest held at Tokpa Ching

THOUBAL, Aug 26: In relation with the ongoing demand for implementation of ILP in the state, Tokpa Ching Meira Paibi Apunba Lup organised sit in protests at different areas of

THOUBAL, Aug 26: In relation with the ongoing demand for implementation of ILP in the state, Tokpa Ching Meira Paibi Apunba Lup organised sit in protests at different areas of Tokpa Ching area today.

The Lup organised the protests at Tokpa Ching Community Hall and at Tokpa Ching Mondum Mahadev Gate. During the protests, the protestors held placards with slogans demanding implementation of ILP, to implement ILP as soon as possible and the removal of all the 60 MLAs for failure to implement ILP in the state.

A similar protest in the form of Meira rally was also demonstrated this evening by different organisations, clubs and Tentha Apunba Meira Paibi at Tentha area, Thoubal.

The rally was jointly organised by Ideal Club, Tentha, YDA, Takwa Tentha, Tamaido Tentha, Maido Tentha, TKUC, KYC and SYDO Tentha Marongban along with the Meira Paibi. The protestors shouted out demand for ILP implementation in the state during the protest.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/ilp-sit-in-protest-held-at-tokpa-ching/

AMSU to observe Hunger Marchers’ Day

IMPHAL, Aug 26: The All Manipur Students’ Union has stated that it is preparing to organise the 49th Hunger Marchers’ Day on August 27. According to a release of AMSU,

IMPHAL, Aug 26: The All Manipur Students’ Union has stated that it is preparing to organise the 49th Hunger Marchers’ Day on August 27.

According to a release of AMSU, in August 27, 1965, the public and students had jointly held a protest against the then government for causing artificial scarcities of essential food items in the state. During the protest, three students identified as Nabakumar, Chaobhal and Pramodini and AIR driver, Nilamani were killed in firing by security forces.

It further stated that in remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives during the protest, AMSU had been observing August 27 as Hunger Marchers’ Day since 1965. And as a continuation of the tradition, the Union will observe the 48th Hunger Marchers’ Day at Singjamei Pishum Chinga, where a floral tribute will be held at the memorial sites.

Later, a meeting will be held at DM College campus, the release said.

The press communiqué also appealed to the people of all ages, students, clubs, organisations, Meira-Paibis, private organisations, drivers, government and non-government employees to take part in the observation.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/amsu-to-observe-hunger-marchers-day/

AR personnel injured in IED explosion

IMPHAL, Aug 26: A havildar of the 3 Assam Rifles was hit by splinters during an Improvised Explosive Device attack this morning around 6:15 at Old Somtal, Chandel district along

IMPHAL, Aug 26: A havildar of the 3 Assam Rifles was hit by splinters during an Improvised Explosive Device attack this morning around 6:15 at Old Somtal, Chandel district along the Indo-Myanmar border.

The injured has been identified as havildar no 35578A Jagdish Chander, 49.

He was hit by splinters on the left side of his neck and leg.

Sources informed the IFP that the Assam Rifles team under attack had opened a post in the nearby Sahlon hills and belongs to the D Coy of the 3 Assam Rifles.

It is also learnt that the IED which was already planted exploded as the AR team in a Road Opening Patrol was approaching along the Inter Village Road on the western side of their post.

The injured havildar was shifted around 9:55 am in a helicopter to the military hospital in Leimakhong and is said to be out of danger.

Meanwhile, no militant outfit has claimed responsibility of the attack.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/ar-personnel-injured-in-ied-explosion/

AR personnel convicted for life, now languishing in Sajiwa, seeks transfer to Jammu Jail

Imphal, August 25: An ex-rifleman of the Assam Rifles convicted for life at the Sajiwa Central Jail has sought for a transfer to a jail at his native Jammu and

Imphal, August 25: An ex-rifleman of the Assam Rifles convicted for life at the Sajiwa Central Jail has sought for a transfer to a jail at his native Jammu and Kashmir.

A source said that the State Home department has sent a letter to the Inspector General of Prisons (Jammu Central), government of Jammu and Kashmir, recently to furnish comments or approval to the State government regarding the proposed transfer to the Jammu Central Jail at the earliest.

The statement reads that the State government has no objection to the transfer of ex-rifleman (barber) no. I-912222P of 44 Assam Rifles, a life convict, as per the provision under the transfer of Prisoner Act, 1950.

The life convict identified as Shashi Kumar of Chanhala village from Jammu Teshil pleaded for transfer from Sajiwa Central Jail to the Jammu Central Jail to be able to meet his family members, on March 22, 2010.

The source said Shashi Kumar was convicted on April 4, 2006 under Section 302 IPC & 27 Arms Act of A.A. Section – 164(2) read with paras 107 and 108 by the General Court Martial in the Headquarters of 27th Sector Assam Rifle c/o 99 APO and sentenced to be hanged till death.

Shashi Kumar didn’t file any petitions to the Central government or Superior Military Authority and in any High Courts against the conviction because his family members could not come and meet him in the Sajiwa Central Jail, it said.

Moreover, he had problems adjusting with the inmates due to the language barrier, the source added.

The source said if Shashi Kumar is transferred to his home State; thereafter, he can meet his family members and be able to file a petition to the High Court or any authority against his conviction.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/ar-personnel-convicted-for-life-now-languishing-in-sajiwa-seeks-transfer-to-jammu-jail/

JCILPS bans male vendors from Ima Keithel

IMPHAL, August 25: Continuing with their movement demanding implementation of Inner Line Permit System in the State, the Joint Committee on ILPS, Women wing today conducted a drive to check

IMPHAL, August 25: Continuing with their movement demanding implementation of Inner Line Permit System in the State, the Joint Committee on ILPS, Women wing today conducted a drive to check the credentials and identity proofs of non locals.

The drive launched to weed out non-locals without proper valid papers was conducted at Masjid Road, Paona Bazar.

Members of the committee said they will check ‘intrusion’ of the ema keithel by non-local male vendors.

JCILPS women wing convenor, L Nganbi said from tomorrow no male vendor will be allowed space inside the ema keithels.

The ema keithels are famous for having only women vendors, and so male migrants cannot be allowed to vend in the keithels, she said.

Meanwhile, a public meeting in connection with the Inner Line Permit System was held today at the Icham Khunou, Thoubal Zilla today.

The meeting which was jointly organised by the Icham Khunou Meira paibi Lup, Icham Khunou Youth Welfare Association and LI English School, Icham Khunou was attended by several elders of the locality, students and meira paibis.

MAPI council advisor Th Manihar and Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System member Sunil Karam spoke on the occasion as resource persons.

Newmai News Network adds: During the drive of the JCILPS most of the non-local residents produced their Voter ID cards which identified them to be residents of Sagolband constituency and their cards were duly signed by the Imphal West Deputy Commissioner.

Many of the non-Manipuris did not possess papers issued to them by their respective State authorities. The volunteers of JCILPS, Women Wing warned them to have their proper documents or else they would face another difficult situation next time, said the report.

Later in the day, the JCILPS, Students Wing raided a dozen of bakery shops at Babupara in Imphal. They seized a large quantity of bakery items in the raid.

A large quantity of bakery products infested with fungus and selling beyond expiry dates were seized from 12 bakery shops at Babupara, Moirangthem Angamba, convenor, JCILPS, Students Wing told reporters.

He said the seized food items had been burned down and destroyed at Keishampat Junction.

Angamba appealed to the Food Safety Department to look into such matters and take maximum care while issuing licenses to bakery shops in future.

He warned that all bakery shops which have not possessed health license and also shop license will be closed down within one week.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/jcilps-bans-male-vendors-from-ima-keithel/