Headlines – Page 817 – Manipur News

VC expresses helplessness to revoke reservation Act

IMPHAL, August 7: “Revocation of The Central Education Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Amendment Act, 2012 is out of my hand as it was approved and implemented by the President

IMPHAL, August 7: “Revocation of The Central Education Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Amendment Act, 2012 is out of my hand as it was approved and implemented by the President of India,” clarified Manipur University vice chancellor H Nandakumar Sarma.

He said it can only be revoked by the Supreme Court of India and added as for him, he can only wait and hope for the situation to subside.

The VC has been under much fire from both the university students and the Manipur University Teachers’ Association after the university registrar Prof N Lokendro issued a notice asking the hostellers to vacate their hostels immediately and all classes were suspended.

Sources believe that the notification was a direct fallout of the contentious The Central Education Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Amendment Act, 2012 which has been opposed by a group of students while another group has been demanding its immediate implementation in the university.

During an exclusive interview with this IFP reporter today, the VC said he had himself come to know of the Amendment Act only on July 17, while he was in New Delhi to discuss increase in fund for OBC students of the State with the UGC.

It may be mentioned that the Amendment Act was already approved by the President of India in 2012 and, the Manipur University authority decided to implement it only from this ongoing admission session.

He said the notification asking students to vacate their hostel rooms and suspension of classes were taken up only to ensure “peace and tranquillity” is maintained in the university campus.

Although, classes cannot remain suspended for long, the university will be open only when the situation over the reservation issue settles, the VC asserted.

Altogether 711 hostellers including girls had vacated their hostels during a short notice.

Majority of the students have already left for their homes, however, many still remain outside the university gates taking shelter in a community hall seeking “justice” against what they call “unreasonable order” to vacate their hostels.

Many of those who have stayed behind are from the far flung areas.

Meanwhile, Manipur University Students’ Union Revival Demand Committee supported by the students of the university protested in front of the university’s main gate.

The students were seeking revocation of The Central Education Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Amendment Act, 2012.

The protest turned ugly after their attempt to storm into the university campus was foiled by State security forces using mock bombs.

Five students including three girls were in injured in the police action, MUSU RDC convenor Th Suresh told IFP over the phone.

He said the university authorities are inviting the students wrath with its uncalled for order to suspend all classes.

The teachers are meaningless in the absence of their students, he said demanding that the entire university including the office of VC should be close if the university is to be closed.

He further appealed to the higher authorities of the university to check the present situation in the university, saying that the ordeal is creating a fear psychosis amongst the students.

Meanwhile, the Manipur University Teachers’ Association has called an emergency general body meeting on August 8, 2014 at 1pm in the Old Senate hall, Department of Earth Sciences, in view of the present situation in Manipur University, said a press release of the association.

Cabinet approves five more sub-divisions in hills

IMPHAL, August 7: The State cabinet has approved creation of five new sub-divisions in the hill districts of the State.

According to government spokesperson, CAF & PD minister Moirangthem Okendro, the Chief Minister chaired a cabinet meeting at the conference room of his secretariat this afternoon.

He said the cabinet approved the creation of the five new sub-divisions with an aim to facilitate proper administration in the districts.

Okendro identified the new sub-divisions as Mao and Bungte Chiru sub-divisions in Senapati district, Lungchong Meiphai sub-division in Ukhrul district, Thangting sub-division in Churachandpur district and Haochong sub-division in Tamenglong district.

Further elaborating on the cabinet decision, he said Mao sub-division has a population of 51138 and will cover the 13 villages previously included in the Tadubi sub-division, Lungchong Meiphai sub-division will have 28 villages with a total population of 42451 existing as TD Block.

Thangting sub-division will have 125 villages with a total population of 27730, he said before adding that 66 of the total villages were previously under Churachandpur sub-division while 59 others are from Henglep sub-division.

Haochong sub-division will be created by carving out 16 villages with a total population of 14120 from Tamenglong sub-division, whereas Bungte Chiru sub-division will be created by carving out 27 villages from SDC Kangchup circle and will have a total population of 12071, the government spokesperson said.

The decision for the creation of the new sub-divisions was approved considering the difficulties villagers from far flung areas had to face in order to reach the district and block Head Quarters, he said.

On the other hand, the cabinet has also approved appointing four additional government advocates through the Manipur Public Service Commission, he said.

Vote bank politics root cause behind present situation: BJP

IMPHAL, August 7: The present issue of foreigners over-flooding in the State has been created by politicians who practice vote bank politics, BJP Manipur Pradesh spokesperson RK Shivchandra told the

IMPHAL, August 7: The present issue of foreigners over-flooding in the State has been created by politicians who practice vote bank politics, BJP Manipur Pradesh spokesperson RK Shivchandra told the media today.

He said it is seriously alarming that out of 27 thousand voters in Jiribam, 20 thousand are foreigners, and added now several other constituencies like Thangmeiband and Wangkhei are also facing the same problem.

Addressing a press meet at the party’s Nityaipat Chuthek office, he said the party strongly condemns the firing of tear gas shells and use of brute force by the police to control students and womenfolk agitating in demand of Inner Line Permit System implementation in the State.

If the present government led by Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi, is sincere towards the public demand, as suggested by yesterday’s all-political party meeting, it should release all those arrested in connection with the present movement unconditionally, he continued.

Failure to do so will only reveal the true intention of the government towards the ILP demand movement, he added.

The BJP spokesperson also demanded the government to enact proper laws to check the selling of land to outsiders in the State and to immediately constitute a committee to monitor the illegal entry of foreigners at Moreh, Jiribam, Churachandpur and Mao.

“ILP alone cannot save the indigenous population, we need stronger land laws, like in Shimla where foreigners cannot buy land there,” Shivchandra pointed out.

Referring to yesterday’s all-political party meeting, he said it will be unproductive, like in the previous instances of the Momoko incident and the Indo-Myanmar border issue, he asked the government to take advice from the JCILPS instead of taking political party representatives to Delhi.

The government should take opinions from JCILPS and other CSOs and discuss the issue with other experts of the State on whether to go to Delhi or enact a law on its own, he said.

He said the Union Home Ministry had earlier in 2012, already written to the principal secretary, Home asserting that the State government cannot implement the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act 1873 in the State as it is applicable only in the North Eastern States of Nagaland, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh.

On July 19, 2012, the Union Ministry had also asked the government if the ILP was implemented in the State in the past and to furnish the period if it was, he said. He said although the BJP has not a single representative in the Manipur Legislative Assembly, it considers the 60 MLAs as representatives of the people.

He said it would be much better if the MLAs could agitate at Delhi during the Assembly session.

Students protesting Nabachandra’s death injured in police firing

BISHNUPUR, August 7: Several students who were protesting the death of 18 year old Nabachandra were injured when police fired tear gas shells and rubber bullets at them. Phairenbam

BISHNUPUR, August 7: Several students who were protesting the death of 18 year old Nabachandra were injured when police fired tear gas shells and rubber bullets at them.

Phairenbam Nabachandra, 18, son of Ph Lukhoi of Thanga presently staying at Moirang Patlou succumbed to injuries sustained while trying to pacify a fight between a mohori and his labourers on August 5 at the under construction water supply scheme, Moirang Chengei Lampak.

He was a class XI student of Moirang Multipurpose Higher Secondary School.

The JAC formed in connection with the death had staged a sit in protest at the Moirang Bazar demanding the police to produce the culprits involved before sunset today.

The sit in protest was also participated by students of Moirang Multipurpose Higher Secondary School and other schools.

After the police failed to meet the demand before the set deadline, a huge mob including the students turned up at the Moirang Lamkhai and blocked the road.

Sources informed that earlier, representatives of the JAC, students and family members had met with the contractor of the water supply at the office of the Bishnupur SP Herojit.

During the meeting the contractor had offered Rs 2 lakh to settle the case, while the students demanded installation of Nabachandra’s statue at the school, suitable job for the bereaved family and to award befitting punishment to the culprits according to the law of the land.

After the talk failed, JAC supporters and students burnt tyres and placed boulders on the road blocking traffic movement.

A police team led by Moirang SDPO Raghumani and Moirang PS OC Surjaboro tried to control the agitators.

Around 3.25pm, Bishnupur SP Herojit arrived at the scene and watch vehicles lined up on both sides of road block at Moirang Lamkhai.

As the police were trying to disperse the agitators, a Maruti car coming from the Imphal side and a bus coming from the opposite side tried to speed away, but were stopped by the mob and damaged.

Trying to control the mob, police fired tear gas shells and rubber bullets.

Class XI student Konjengbam Windi, 16, daughter of Lokendro of Moirang Phairembam Leikai received nine stitches on her right side leg after being injured in the police action.

Class IX student Oinam Bebi, 15, daughter of Nobin of Moirang Laishoi; class X student Mairenbam Rustam, 15, son of Ranjit were hit by rubber bullets and have been admitted at the Moirang CHC.

Class XI student Rojita, 16, daughter of Abdul Sadar of Kwakta Sandhong fainted and was admitted at the Moirang Charitable Hospital.

T Tonu daughter of Kameshwar of Phubala received three stitches on his right calf.

All the injured were shifted to the hospital by the police team.

It is also learnt that Rustam has been shifted to Shija Hospital after his condition deteriorated and however he is said to be out of danger, according to source.

Agitations demanding ILP implementation continue

IMPHAL, August 7: Demands for implementation of Inner Line Permit System in the State continued today with the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) spearheading more agitations

IMPHAL, August 7: Demands for implementation of Inner Line Permit System in the State continued today with the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) spearheading more agitations against the State government.

Different forms of demonstrations including rallies, sit in protest, etc were carried out in several parts of the State.

Sit in protest were held at Patsoi part III community hall, Kangabam Leikai, Wanhengbam Leikai, Khoyathong Bazar, Langol View Clinic community hall, Kombirei market, Awang Kongpal TV tower, Naharup Thongkhong, Naharup Makha Leikai, Khergao School, Thambalkhong Thongkhong, Kongpal Chanam Leikai, Kongpal Mutum Leikai and Singjamei Bheigyabati Leikai.

The Awang Leikinthabi Meira Paibi Lup also organised a sit in protest at Awang Leikinthabi Bazaar Road.

Around 200 locals participated in the protest.

Students of Sugunu area also held a rally.

Students of Sugunu Higher Secondary School, Sugunu Junior High School, Grace Academy Sugunu, Ganga Academy, Holy Child School Sugunu, Standard School, St Joseph School, CPIS School Sugunu Academy converged at the compound of the Sugunu Higher Secondary School and took out the rally till Sugunu bazar.

The students shouted slogans demanding the MLAs and ministers to resign for their failure to implement the ILP in the State. They also held placards demanding ILP implementation in the State.

JCILPS, students wing, Thoubal convenor Kh Rabi told the media that students will continue to agitate until the ILP is implemented in the State.

Thounoujam-Yangdong Meira Paibi and the YOC, Yangdong staged a sit in protest at the Yangdong Keithel.

Tanjeng Khunou and Mangjing meira paibis also staged a sit in protest at the Tangjeng Khunou Terahoubi Keithel which was also participated by the Thoubal District United Women’s Development Organisation.

Later the demonstrators took out a rally in the locality.

Our Bishnupur Correspondent adds: Meira pabis of Ishok village, Bishnupur joined hands with the JCILPS to stage a sit in protest at the local bazar area.

The sit in protest was also participated by students of Royal Academy AMS.

On the other hand, the Development& Protection United Voluntary Organisation (DPUVO), Nambol along with JCILPS and Special Regular Higher Secondary School , Nambol Sabal Leikai Students’ Union held a sit in protest cum public meeting demanding implementation of the ILP in the State at the Nambol Sabal Leikai Community Hall.

JAC demands arrest of culprits in Alice killing

IMPHAL, August 7: The JAC formed in connection with the alleged killing of N S Alice staged a sitting protest today at the Tangkhul Baptist Church, Chingmeirong. Speaking to the media,

IMPHAL, August 7: The JAC formed in connection with the alleged killing of N S Alice staged a sitting protest today at the Tangkhul Baptist Church, Chingmeirong.

Speaking to the media, JAC spokesperson AC Rising said a formal complaint had been lodged in connection with the Alice’s death with the Heingang Police by her uncle NS Ngareishan.

However, no FIR was lodged and the complaint was only entered in their log book as GD entry no 25, dated 30-7-2014, he said.

He alleged Alice death was not suicide but it was plain murder, clearly pointed out by the injury marks on her body.

Ever since Alice was found dead, neither her husband Pebam Ranjit Singh nor his family have ever visited and inquired about the death, he alleged.

While lamenting that the incident was reported to the media as suicide, he added that the JAC will not accept such misleading information and will not compromise under any circumstances.

The JAC further warned the government to take necessary action in time and demanded the police to register the FIR immediately and book the culprits within five days.

The government should provide ex-gratia to the bereaved family and the culprits should be punished according to the law of the land, the JAC further demanded.

A memorandum was also submitted to both the Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi and the deputy Chief Minister, Gaikhangam in connection with the demands, he said.

AMWJU withdraws RIMS boycott

IMPHAL, August 7: The All Manipur Working Journalist’ Union has lifted its boycott against the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal, said a statement signed by the union’s secretary GA

IMPHAL, August 7: The All Manipur Working Journalist’ Union has lifted its boycott against the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal, said a statement signed by the union’s secretary GA Naocha.

It said the boycott has been lifted following a formal information conveyed by RIMS authority regarding L Phillip Singh’s appointment as media adviser of the institute, replacing Laithangbam Iboyaima.

It may be recalled that AMWJU decided to boycott RIMS, after a reporter of Manipuri daily Poknapham was insulted by Iboyaima using derogatory words when the former had gone to RIMS campus to get a report.

AMWJU had demanded the removal of L Iboyaima as media adviser of RIMS.

Further, the statement has also clarified that AMWJU has never demanded a table tennis board from the Parliamentary Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports, Manipur, and has not received one either.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/amwju-withdraws-rims-boycott/

I-Day frisking intensifies

THOUBAL, August 7: As part of the ongoing security check prior to Independence Day, August 15, to prevent any unwanted incidents, the additional SP of Thoubal (Ops) S. Ibomcha and

THOUBAL, August 7: As part of the ongoing security check prior to Independence Day, August 15, to prevent any unwanted incidents, the additional SP of Thoubal (Ops) S. Ibomcha and District Police Commando OC, Anandkumar had led a combing operation at areas under Kakching Police Station today from 4 am till 7.30 am.

A source from the Police stated that around 500 individuals were kept at Langthel Kangjeibung due to lack of proper documents. Upon further investigation of the 500 individuals, seven who were identified as bailed out UGs, six individuals suspected to be miscreants were arrested and sent to Kakching Police Station for further investigation, the source said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/i-day-frisking-intensifies/

MU students find refuge at community hall as university suddenly closes door

IMPHAL, August 6: At least seven students including three girls were injured in police action this morning in front of the Manipur University administration block.The incident was the fallout

IMPHAL, August 6: At least seven students including three girls were injured in police action this morning in front of the Manipur University administration block.

The incident was the fallout of the sudden closure of the Manipur University without any clear explanation.

The University was closed until further notice following an order issued by the Registrar, N Lokendra Singh yesterday.

As per the order, the ongoing classes including practical examinations of PG courses have been suspended with immediate effect until further notice besides asking the hostellers to vacate their respective hostels by 4pm of August 6.

Following the order, the hostellers started vacating since yesterday however a handful of hostellers in defiance stayed behind.

According to information culled from the spot, it has been learnt that disappointed by the short notice to vacate their hostel rooms, the students who stayed behind proceeded towards the administration block today with the intention to meet the Vice Chancellor and the Registrar.

However, they were denied permission.

Perturbed with the denial, the students went on a rampage and started attacking the block which resorted, the police to use force against them.

To disperse the mob police baton charged and fired mock bombs, injuring the students. However, no serious injury is reported.

Some of the hostellers are reportedly taking shelter at Khuman Lampak Youth hostel while others are taking refuge at the Heijigang Bazaar community hall (opposite to the university).

Speaking to IFP this evening, a student stationed at the Haijigang community hall expressed his disappointment over the sudden move of the MU.

“How can one expect to vacate the hostel within such a short notice? Some of the hostellers are from the remote corners of the State. We condemned and demand the MU to revoked the order”, he continued.

Meanwhile, official sources told IFP that the order was issued with an intention to prevent any untoward incidents in the wake of the disturbed atmosphere within the campus following the confrontation of two groups with regards to reservation issue.

It may be recalled, students belonging to OBC and SC are objecting to a newly issued Central government directive to alter the reservation norms which weighed the balance against them. The new norms, if implemented, would come in favour of ST students, and therefore the university authorities anticipate violent confrontations, therefore the order for closing the university “till further notice.”

MUTA demands VC’s resignation

IMPHAL, August 6: The Manipur University Teachers’ Association has condemned the “brutal action” against students of the university and demanded resignation of the present vice chancellor.
The teachers’ body was reacting to the university authority asking the hostellers to immediately vacate their hostels.

In a press statement, MUTA said, “Regarding the present impasse out of the sudden imposition of the admission policy which has further been escalated by the whimsical action of the university authority asking the hostellers to immediately vacate their hostel rooms before 4 pm of August 6, 2014 and suspension of all ongoing classes including the practical classes of PG courses, MUTA condemns, in the strongest term, the unwarranted brutal action onto the agitating students who have been protesting peacefully against the University Authority.”

“In the process, the present Vice-Chancellor has created a history, for the wrong cause though, of firing the first salvo of tear-gas shells in the University Campus.”

“It shows the administrative failure of the vice-chancellor in bringing an amicable solution.”

MUTA said it had already asked for the VC’s resignation for failing miserably to improve the academic standard and streamlining the functioning of the university.

“There has also been breach of agreements with MUTA signed on February 10, 2014, as none of the MUTA’s demands have been fulfilled so far,” it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/muta-demands-vcs-resignation/

Committee constituted to explore legal routes available to protect indigenous peoples

IMPHAL, August 6: A 13 member committee of political parties has been constituted, led by deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam as chairman and MLA RK Anand as convener. The committee will

IMPHAL, August 6: A 13 member committee of political parties has been constituted, led by deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam as chairman and MLA RK Anand as convener. The committee will examine and consult legal experts to explore if a law can be enacted in the State to protect the indigenous peoples.

The said committee was constituted in a marathon meeting of all political parties on the hot issue of Inner Line Permit system, held today at the office chamber of the Chief Minister Okram Ibobi. The meeting chaired by the Chief Minister and started this afternoon at 2 and continued till 7:30 in the evening.

The newly constituted committee will meet on August 9.

In today’s meeting, representatives of most of the political parties were present, except for the Naga Peoples’ Front, NPF. The 13 members are: deputy CM Gaikhangam and MLA RK Anand of Congress, L Ibomcha of NCP, Dr I Ibohalbi of Trinamool, Dr M Nara of CPI, Ksh Shanta of CPI (M), K Shyam of LJP, Manihar Goswami of JD (S), M Tombi of JD (U), RK Shivachandra of BJP and K Kabita Devi of BSP, Th Manihar of AAP and N Sovakiran of MPP.

The committee will submit a report to the Government soon but has not fixed a date for doing so.

Moirangthem Tombi of JD (U) speaking on the sidelines of the meeting said the political parties have collectively urged the Government to release the agitators who are in police custody.

ILP agitation: Policeman misfires smoke bomb, injures self

IMPHAL, August 6: A policeman was seriously injured when a smoke bomb targeted at a student’s rally demanding Inner Line Permit misfired and exploded near his face this afternoon. Athokpam

Students seek shelter as a smoke bomb fell among them during an ILP demand rally. Source: IFP

IMPHAL, August 6: A policeman was seriously injured when a smoke bomb targeted at a student’s rally demanding Inner Line Permit misfired and exploded near his face this afternoon.

Athokpam Herojit, 27, son of A Raghu, a personnel of the Wangoi Police officer in charge’s team was hit on the face by a smoke bomb misfired by another personnel at Yumnam Leikai, while trying to control students of Manipur College.

Herojit, who is from Samurou Naorem Chakprou Leikai, was rushed to the hospital immediately.

Students continue to take out rallies demanding implementation of the Inner Line Permit in the State today, even as an all-political party meeting to discuss the issue was underway at the Chief Minister’s office chamber this evening.

A large number of Manipur College students took out a rally trying to proceed towards the Chief Minister’s bungalow, but were stopped by the police at Yumnam Leikai.

Students were heard shouting slogans demanding ILP implementation in the State.

Police fired several rounds of smoke bombs and tear gas shells in their effort to control the demonstrating students.

The firing of the tear gas shells and smoke bombs also created chaos amongst the smaller students studying in schools located in the area.

Students of other schools and colleges also took out rallies under the aegis of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System, students’ wing.

Ram Lal Paul School students also took out a similar rally, which was controlled by the police in front of the school gate.

GP Women’s college students also took out a rally.

Several students were also injured during different agitations demanding implementation of ILP in the State today.

Five of the injured have been identified as BA 5th semester student of GP Women’s College Khwairakpam Sushma, daughter of Khwairakpam Merena of Kongba Bazar, BA 1st year student Naorem Gopeshor son of Inaobi of Mayang Imphal, Chabung Copeny Leikai, BA III semester, GP Women’s College student Jenny Kom daughter of Akhup Kom of Maibung Kom, B Sc 1st semester, Manipur College student Thounaojam Sunder son of Thounaojam Nandeshori of Konjeng and Bsc III semester, Manipur College student Ranjana Phamdom daughter of Jila Phamdon of Thangju.

While the first three have been admitted at RIMS, the other three were admitted at the Iboyaima Hospital in Singjamei.

Meanwhile, according to a statement of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System, sit in protests were also staged at different places today.

It said sit in protest were held at Iroisemba Lambi Khongnag makhong, Luker, Salam bazar board Mamang leikai, Khamaram (Kameng Mamang), Iroisemba community hall, Nambol Kha Jiri, Nachou, Nambol Kamong Maisnam Leikai community hall, Nambol Kamong Maisnam Leikai Maning, Nambol Kamong Langoljam, Nambol Naorem, Kumbi, Hapta Golapati opp oil pump, Naharup Mayai Leikai, Mahaballi Kabui villagers near the Advance Hospital, Pureiromba Nongpok Ingkhol, Konung mang, Khabam Lamkhai, Kwakeithel Akham Leikai, Sugunu, etc.

Our Bishnupur Correspondent adds: Students from six schools of Kumbi and its surrounding areas today took out a joint rally under the JCILPS demanding implementation of the ILP in the State.

Students from Kumbi High School, Sanatombi Oriental School, Shamballei Sekpil School, YP School, Ideal School and Sandong primary School converged at the Kumbi bazar.

The rally started from the bazar area and after reaching Kumbi Terakha returned back to the bazar area.

The students shouted slogans demanding ILP implementation, clarification on the silence of the MLAs during the recent Budget session, public representatives should step down on moral grounds, etc.

Ranjita JAC warns as government misses deadline

THOUBAL, August 6: The JAC formed in connection with the suspected killing of Lourembam Ranjita has warned that the government should be held responsible for any untoward incident

THOUBAL, August 6: The JAC formed in connection with the suspected killing of Lourembam Ranjita has warned that the government should be held responsible for any untoward incident arising out of the JAC’s movement seeking justice.

The warning came after the deadline set by the JAC demanding the authorities to produce the culprits ended today.

Family members of the deceased along with JAC members, local MLA K Meghachandra, Andro MLA Shyamkumar, minister Oken, Imphal East adhyaksha K Tombi, ZP member Kh Sobha, pradhan S Kumar along with meira paibis met the Chief Minister today.

Later after the meeting with the Chief Minister, the JAC convened a public meeting at Yairipok Khoirom.

The JAC said that even though the government has missed the deadline, the Chief Minister has assured to arrest the culprits at the earliest and punish them accordingly.

Following the Chief Minister’s assurance, the JAC and family members have decided to take the body tomorrow, the JAC said.

Further according to the JAC, during today’s meeting, the Chief Minister had instructed several concerned police officers to expedite investigation in the case and to arrest the culprits at the earliest.

The JAC, at the same time lamented the concerned authority’s failure to produce the culprits even after five days since Ranjita’s body was found.

Lourembam Ranjita Devi, 33, wife of L Loken Singh of Yairipok Khoirom Mathak was found dead at their Kakmayai Mamang Loukol field under Yairipok Police during a manhunt during the night of August 2 launched after she failed to return from the fields.

The JAC asked as to why the police continue to keep in their custody several individuals arrested in connection with case, if they have been found not guilty.

Local MLA Meghachandra expressed deep condolence against the incident. He further assured to provide all possible help in the case.

Meanwhile, earlier in the day, local residents had staged a sit in protest at Khoirom Mathak Leikai Hand Pump Keithel decrying the suspected killing.

During the sit in protest, the road from Khoirom Ataobung Bazar to Yairipok Chandrakhong was blocked.

Women are mirrors of a society: Ak Mirabai

IMPHAL, August 6: A 6-month vocational training course given to female jail inmates concluded with the distribution of participation certificates by Social Welfare minister AK Mirabai today at Manipur Central Jail.

During the function, Mirabai said that those women who have spent their lives in the jail are not inmates by choice but landed there because there were led into the wrong paths. Despite being in the jail, the female jail inmates have responsibilities of maintaining their families and hence the vocational training was provided to 15 female jail inmates in the first phase of the programme, she added.

Pointing out that the training will be provided to more women inmates in subsequent phases, Mirabai expressed her optimism that the training would be of some help to the inmates to augment the incomes of their respective families after their return to the mainstream.

“Women who are the mirrors of society are extremely important in any society. Without women, no society can exist,” she emphasised.

She said the vocational training programme was organized with an aim to ensure self-earning jobs to the female prisoners.

Mirabai encouraged the female inmates to look forward to a new life after their stay in prison and to never follow the wrong paths again while assuring them of providing maximum help after their return to normal life with various departmental schemes.

The six month vocational training course for female jail inmates for their rehabilitation was sponsored by the Manipur State Women Development Co-operation Ltd, Imphal.

The 15 inmates received their certificates from Mirabai. Social Welfare director Dr Rangitabali Waikhom and Manipur Central Jail SP BGO Lein Mang Jail were also present at the function.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/women-are-mirrors-of-a-society-ak-mirabai/

MGNREGA training camps held at Thoubal

THOUBAL, August 6: A three day Training cum Orientation programme was organised by District Programme Coordinator, Thoubal District on ‘MGNREGA Operational Guideline, 2013’ of Thoubal and Kakching C.D. Block Zilla Parishad members at Kshetri Sanglen and attended by Thoubal Zilla Parishad Adyaksha, Kh. Swarnalata as the chief guest.

During the programme, MGNREGA, Thoubal District Training Coordinator, S. Ranjan had said that MGNREGA, which is the flagship of Indian Government changes accordingly. He further stressed the training program was held so that PRI members can understand the continuous changing of the act so as to help the public in understanding the act as well.

It may be mentioned that during the opening session of the program, SIRD, Manipur faculty, Ng. Jogendrajit has discussed on the issues of ‘Key stake holders, roles and responsibilities, job cards and demand for works’ and IEC, State Level Officer, Kh. Ibochouba stressed on the topic ‘Social Mobilisation and Possible Convergence works in MGNREGS’as resource persons.

In the afternoon session, DRDA Thoubal, Program Officer, Kh. Muhindro had emphasized on the topic ‘Roles of PRIs in implementing MGNREGS’and Executive Engineer, Ng. Somorendro also discussed on ‘Planning for works and preparation of Labour Budget in MGNREGS’.

According to a release of the Training Coordinator, discussions on ‘Architecture, Key Messages and Permissible Works of MGNREGS’ will be presented by SIRD Faculty, Doctor A. Somorendro and ‘Financing Matters, Accosting and Utilization of Funds in MGNREGS’ will bediscussed by Commerce Department, Associate Professor, Doctor Kh.Tomba as resource persons during the 1st session of the 2nd day of theprogram.

During the afternoon session of the program ‘Maintenance of Records and Management Information System in MGNREGS by L. Tomba and ‘Social Audit, Vigilance and Grievance Redressal in MGNREGA by DRDA Thoubal, Program Officer, Kh. Muhindro will be presented.

On the final day of the program, DRDA Thoubal, Executive Engineer, Ng. Somarendro will discuss on the topic ‘Quality Management of works and Payment of Wages’ during the morning session. And in the afternoon session, DRDA Thoubal, PO, Kh. Muhindro will stress on ‘Capacity Building and Awareness Generation in MGNREGS’.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/mgnrega-training-camps-held-at-thoubal/

Applications called for LIME scholarship

IMPHAL, August 6: The Students’ League Manipur has stated that Manipur University will offer Lamyanba Irabot Memorial Educational Scholarship (LIME-scholarship) for Master of Arts (MA) starting from this year onward.

According to a release of the organisation, the scholarship will be offered to those students who are poor and cannot afford to pay for their fees.

The scholarship programme can only be taken by students from family who are Below Poverty Line (BPL).

It said Meitei students must come from villages and their parents must be farmers or workers in the fields. Scheduled caste students must be form Andro village or Leimaram village with poor family back-ground. Scheduled tribes students must be of Aimol, Tarao, Purum, Kom, Chothe, Chiru, Kharam, Khoibu and Koireng tribes.

The scholarship will be awarded to 20 students and 10 students belonging to Meitei community who are living outside Manipur such as Assam or Tripura. Students from Assam and Tripura may submit their applications for the scholarship. The application forms can be availed from Marxism Learning Centre, RIMS Road from August 10 onwards, it said.

According to another release of the organisation, a Patriotic Poetry competition and Symposium will be organised in collaboration with other organisations by the Students’ League Manipur on August 13, Patriotic Day. The competition will be held at four districts of Manipur, namely Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur and Thoubal, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/applications-called-for-lime-scholarship/

Unchecked influx alarming if migrant population has surpassed tribal population: RK Anand

IMPHAL, August 4: Naoriya Pakhanglakpa MLA RK Anand stated that it is a matter of great concern if it is true that the migrant population has surpassed the population of

IMPHAL, August 4: Naoriya Pakhanglakpa MLA RK Anand stated that it is a matter of great concern if it is true that the migrant population has surpassed the population of indigenous tribes.

Terming the unchecked influx of migrants as alarming, the Naoriya Pakhanglakpa MLA who was speaking in the sidelines of his visit to his local Assembly constituency said that the Inner Line Permit issue which has now became a raging issue was not necessary during the time when Manipur was a princely State.

Outsiders were allowed to enter the State but it was regulated so as not to pose a threat to the demographics of the State, he said adding as a princely State, the entry of outsiders were regulated by a certain law but that law got repealed after the merger with India when the then Chief Commissioner Himmat Singh declared it null and void on 1950.

Stressing that after the merger with India, the influx of outsiders has grown exponentially in Jiribam, Chandel and Churachandpur, Anand said these outsiders claim to be indigenous people but they are not Manipuris.

According to clause 1 D and E of Article 19 under the Indian Constitution, any citizen of India can move freely within the territory of India, he said, but there are exceptions under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873 under which people from other parts of India need a permit to enter the States of Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.

It was not extended to Manipur because the State was not a part of India at the time of its implementation, Anand said.

Citing the resolution taken at the Assembly which put to question whether the provisions under Article 19 is valid if the survival of the indigenous people is at stake and what measures can be taken to stop the indigenous people from being swamped by outsiders, he stated that the Assembly took a similar resolution again assuming that the State government can take the decision of implementing the Act. But after thoroughly re-examining the matter, we decided to urge the Central government for implementing the ILP Act, Anand added.

He said that after a thorough analysis of Article 19(e), it was learnt that the State can make certain restrictions on this right for protecting the interests of the general public and tribal communities.

Stressing that all the 60 MLAs who are representatives of the people of the State are determined on the issue of ILP implementation, Anand said the issue got sidelined due to the problem created by NSCN-IM problem in the State.

We mobilised our forces to drive out the NSCN-IM from the State because ceasefire is not extended to our State, he added.

Appealing to the members of the State BJP to play a crucial role during the meeting with the NDA government, he said that the Chief Minister’s statement on the ILP issue during the recent Assembly session is important because he urged all the agitators demanding the implementation of ILP, civil societies, the people and all political parties of the State to join hands in taking a collective decision on getting the Act implemented.

Court allows formal arrest of NSCN (IM) cadres in separate case

IMPHAL, August 4: Two of the eight NSCN-IM cadres who were arrested in connection with the killing of Autonomous District Council, Ukhrul member Ngalangzar Malue were formally arrested for their

IMPHAL, August 4: Two of the eight NSCN-IM cadres who were arrested in connection with the killing of Autonomous District Council, Ukhrul member Ngalangzar Malue were formally arrested for their involvement in two different cases today.

With the police remand of the eight expiring today, they were supposed to be produced before the concerned court.

However, with the CJM, Imphal East being out of station on an official assignment to Bhopal, the eight were instead produced before the court of CJM Imphal West RK Memcha.

During today’s court proceeding, the Tamenglong police submitted a plea before the court seeking custodial remand of Wunglengpam Raipang alias Apam, 31, son of Ramreingam of Tushal village, in connection with a case under Fir No.22 (II)2012 TML PS u/s 307/426/400& 25(I-C) Arms Act.

The case was registered following a gun fight between ZUF and NSCN-IM on November 20, 2012 at Khumji.

Similarly, Phungyar police also submitted a separate plea seeking custodial remand of Shimreingam Value alias Angam, 33, son of Alung Value of Tuinem Village, Ukhrul in connection with a case under FIR no.3 (9)2009 PYR PS u/s 307/34 IPC&25 (I-C) Arms Act. The case was registered by the police in connection with an ambush laid by the NSCN-IM against a column of 23 Assam Rifles.

The two were formally arrested by the concerned police stations after being granted permission by the court today.

Apam was remanded to police custody till August 8 while Angam was remanded till August 7.

Meanwhile, the six remaining cadres have been remanded to judicial custody for 15 days.

The six are s/s private Wingky, s/s lance corporal Sepachi, s/s pvt Longji, s/s lance corporal Somrei, s/s sergeant major Esachar Ejao and s/s sergean K Hareithing.

It may be mentioned that the eight were reportedly arrested during a police raid on the WTR office of the NSCN (IM) in Ukhrul district during the wee hours of July 13, a day after the ADC, Ukhrul member was killed.

The section registered against the eight include FIR no.14 (7) 2014 UKL PS u/s 16 UA (P) Act, 363/346/400/IPC, 5 Explosive Substances Act, 6(I-A) I.W.T Act and 25 (I-C) Arms Act.

India and Myanmar discuss joint venture to set up thermal power plant

IMPHAL, August 4: India and Myanmar today discussed a joint venture to set up a Thermal-power plant in Sagaing region of Myanmar. The meeting was held at the Tamu township Army

IMPHAL, August 4: India and Myanmar today discussed a joint venture to set up a Thermal-power plant in Sagaing region of Myanmar.

The meeting was held at the Tamu township Army headquarters, Myanmar.

The Myanmar delegates were led by its Union Minister U Khin Maung Soe of the Ministry of Electric Power, Sagaing region, while the Indian delegates were led by Manipur Commerce and Industry Minister Govindas Konthoujam.

Following the discussion, the Myanmar Union Minister U Khin Maung Soe said he will discuss the venture with the top leaders of his country and inform the Indian side soon.

If discussions between the two countries end successfully, the project will see the Indian side finance the plant, while the Myanmar government will provide the required land.

The two sides also discussed the issue of visa service between the two countries to ensure trouble free passage of travellers between them.

Manipur minister Govindas placed before the Myanmar delegates that from the Indian side efforts are on to actualise the service at the earliest.

He also urged the Myanmar side to do the needful from their side and to support the Integrated Check Post to be constructed on the Indian side.

During the meeting, Govindas had also highlighted the arrest of six Indians by Myanmar authorities, which the Myanmar Minister had assured to look into and discuss their release with the country’s concerned authorities.

The Indian delegates present during the meeting included consulate general Embassy of India, Mandalay N Nandakumar, additional DC, Moreh Robert Singh, chief engineer (Electricity) Sarat Singh, Border Trade & Chamber of Commerce, Moreh president V Sekhar and other officials.

The Myanmar delegates include State Power minister, Sagain region Eu-Kya Win, Border Trade Chamber of Comerce, Tamu chairman U Hla Maung and others.

MPP stages sit-in protest demanding ILP implementation

IMPHAL, August 4 : The Manipur People’s Party staged a sit-in protest demanding the implementation of Inner Line Permit at the Manipur People’s Party Office near the Polo ground today. Speaking

IMPHAL, August 4 : The Manipur People’s Party staged a sit-in protest demanding the implementation of Inner Line Permit at the Manipur People’s Party Office near the Polo ground today.

Speaking to the media MPP president Nongmeikapam Sovakiran Singh said that due to the non-implementation of the Inner Line Permit System in Manipur, many non-indigenous people or migrants from outside the State and many foreign nationals (Nepalis, Bangladeshis and Burmese) who have been coming to the State have now settled in the State and claim they are locals and are also shown in the statistical data of the Manipur population in the ratio of 3:1 at the 2001 census.

He further said that by virtue of such migrants from foreign countries and other neighboring states, Tripuris in Tripura have now lost their indigenous rights and customary laws as they are now in a minority in their own State.

The Manipur Peoples’ Party, therefore, feels that the long history and culture of indigenous people of Manipur which is more than 2000 years old will vanish very soon if the Inner Line Permit System is not implemented in the State of Manipur immediately, he added.

Sovakiran also stressed the stand of MPP vis-a-vis implementation of ILP and stated that it continues to urge the government of the State to restore the ILPS in Manipur immediately and also to protect the rights of indigenous people of the State.

The Komrem Mother Association stated that it supports the ongoing movement of ILP implementation in Manipur.

According to a release of the association, it said that if the system is not implemented small communities will become extinct. It demanded the implementation of ILP or a similar system in the state.

It also condemned the brutality of the police force against the students and further appealed to stop such act in the future, it said.

Our Bishnupur Correspondent adds: A sit-in-protest cum public meeting was staged today at Keinou Thongkha Community hall of Bishnupur district demaind ILP implementatio.

The sit in cum meeting was jointly organised by Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) of Keinou Thongkha Chnura Lup, Keinou Thongkha Makha Leikai Meira Lup and Keinou Thongkha Chaokhat Khongthang Lup.

Tondang, Advisor of Apunba Kanglei Sinnaibi Lup (AKSIL), spoke at the meeting participated by around 100 women from different organisations of the locality.

Slogans were shouted by the demonstrators demanding ILP implementation in Manipur and demanded the release of Arjun Telheiba, executive member of JCILPS, and other 28 members.

Several other demonstrations were also held at Heirangoithong, Kakwa Pechu Lampak, Konung Mamang, Sagolband Meino Leirak Maisnam Ningthomba Leikai, Haobam Marak Irom Leikai, Kwakeithel Mayai Koibi, Kanto Sabal Leikai, Sekmai Bazar, Keinou Thongkha, Kongba Uchekon, Thoubal Tangjen and in other parts today.