Headlines – Page 844 – Manipur News

Hopeson Ningshen convicted, quantum of sentence on June 30

IMPHAL, May 31: NSCN (IM) self-styled lieutenant colonel Hopeson Ningshen was on Saturday convicted in the triple murder case of Dr Th Kishan and his two subordinate staff by a

IMPHAL, May 31: NSCN (IM) self-styled lieutenant colonel Hopeson Ningshen was on Saturday convicted in the triple murder case of Dr Th Kishan and his two subordinate staff by a Special CBI Court.

The verdict of the three year-long trial was announced today at the Patiala House, New Delhi in the Special CBI Court of VK Gupta. The argument on quantum of sentences will however be held on June 30, 2014, informed a source.

Hopeson Ningshen has been held guilty for the commission of offences punishable under Section 302, 364 A, 394 read with 120B IPC.

Kasom Khullen SDO Dr Kishan and his two subordinates were found bludgeoned to death at Taphou along National Highway-2 (Imphal-Dimapur road) on February 17, 2009.

Following much furore over the involvment of NSCN (IM) cadres in the triple murder of SDO Dr Kishan and his two subordinate staff, Yumnam Token, a Mandal, and driver Aribam Rajen, the Manipur government on January 31, 2010, handed over the case to the CBI.

Today’s conviction came after the deferral of the announcement on two counts.

The pronouncement of judgement in the case was supposed to be made on January 18 earlier this year, however as Justice VK Gupta was on tour, the decision was kept on hold and deferred to February 15, 2014.

Ever since reports that the pronouncement of judgement will be made on January 18 became public, the JAC spearheaded to organised public meetings to discuss the development of the case.

A public congregation was held at Mapari Ninghingkol, Uripok Machin on January 15.

Hearing of 17 year old sedition case against Freedom editor held

IMPHAL, May 31: Hearing for seventeen years old case on the then local English daily Freedom’s editor RK Ranendrajit who was charged of publishing seditious and inflammatory editorial on September

IMPHAL, May 31: Hearing for seventeen years old case on the then local English daily Freedom’s editor RK Ranendrajit who was charged of publishing seditious and inflammatory editorial on September 12, 1997 was conducted today before the District and Session Judge, Manipur (E) Cheirap court, Uripok.

Khaidem Mani, Defence Counsel to Ranandrajit recounted after the hearing that the case was filed under FIR 359(9)97 of IPS u s 124-A IPC. The charge sheet was submitted before the court during April and May of 1998. The editor’s arrest was averted with an anticipatory bail then, said Mani.

He further informed that, during today’s hearing public prosecutor Bimola submitted the charge stating that in the said editorial column seditious and inflammatory languages were used with a calculated design to excite feeling of disaffection against the government and its established law, and thereby it could also promote feeling of contempt and hatred among the general public and different communities.

She also mentioned that similar editorials were also written in previous editions including 12/9/97, 4/1/97, 30/1/97, 29/1/97, 17/2/97, 16/3/97 and 27/4/97.

Defence counsel Mani arguing on behalf of the accused submitted that the charge is curtailment of dissent voice, fearing criticism because lots of tortures to the people of Manipur have been taking place after the Merger and implementation of AFSPA 1958 since September 8, 1980.

He said such editorials were simply highlighting the grievances of the people.

He said that there is no question of anti-India feeling. People of Manipur and northeast must be treated same as the rest of the Indians. So the editorial contains no seditious, inflammatory languages and ill-feeling against the government.

There were no protest, movements, agitations and public meetings held against the government responding to the said editorial, he countered.

He further said that there is no foundation in the charge leveled against Ranendrajit. Mani further cited example of cases on Thounaojam Iboyaima adviser Irabot Foundation, former Minister N Biren regarding their speech on April 9, 2000 at the Cheirao ching floral tribute ceremony. Both were charged with the same Act, but were acquitted later on.

The next hearing will be on June 13, Mani added.

No internal crisis in BJP, Chaoba affirms

IMPHAL, May 31: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Manipur Pradesh has urged the Union Home minister to suspend the Armed Forces Special Power Act 1958 from Manipur on a temporary basis,

IMPHAL, May 31: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Manipur Pradesh has urged the Union Home minister to suspend the Armed Forces Special Power Act 1958 from Manipur on a temporary basis, State president Th Chaoba told the media today.

Chaoba was addressing a press conference at the Manipur Press Club Saturday regarding the recent speculations reported in local dailies about his possible replacement from the president’s post of the State unit, BJP.

He questioned how the party can think of changing the president at a State unit when even the national party president remains unchanged.

There is no crisis inside the party as has been speculated, he said before acknowledging, however, there are some minor differences between some members of the party.

This is part and parcel of being in a branch of such a big national party as the BJP, said Th Chaoba.

However, the reported crisis inside the party is totally baseless. Such speculations have been raised as the party is growing since the NDA came to power at the Centre, he asserted.

The minor differences is all part of being in a family, he said before declaring that the camping of some senior leaders of the State unit at the national capital for the past ten days has no concern whatsoever with replacing him as the president.

Ever since, the party won a landslide victory at the Centre, the State unit has been celebrating. It is only congratulating each other between the senior party leaders of the State unit, he continued his clarification.

The State Pradesh with the help of the national leaders of the party will soon enquire if there is any outside influence on the reported news of conflict in the party, he continued

There was no favouritism while issuing party ticket for the recent LS election, he said while adding the tickets were finalised only by the Parliamentary Board led by the national president, Rajnath Singh, Venkaiah Naidu and other leaders.

He said he is not authorised to select candidates for MPs and MLAs but only for Panchayat and Municipality elections.

Chaoba said he have met various leaders including Home minister Rajnath Singh and discussed the present law and order situation of the state, during which the Union minister had assured to take all positive actions.

During his recent stay at the national capital, he said he along with his team had apprised the Union Home minister on certain suggestions regarding the law and order situation in the State.

The Union minister’s reply was that since he had taken charge of the ministry recently, the State BJP team should come up with a few points which reflect the party manifesto of the recent LS polls, he said.

So, a four point priority list including demand for repeal of AFSPA, border issue, law and order situation, etc have been submitted to the government, he said.

Chaoba acknowledged removing AFSPA or its repeal will take time in the Parliament.

There is not much effect in the neighbouring State of Nagaland even though AFSPA is imposed since the Disturb Area Status has been removed from the State, he said.

As the Disturb Area Status has been removed from some assembly segments in Greater Imphal area, likewise it needs to be removed from the entire 60 Assembly Constituencies, he said.

With the Union minister for Road Transport and Highways and Shipping, Nitin Gadkari, he had discussed the development of the Imphal-Jiribam road, he said.

Further addressing the media, he said he had discussed the border fencing issue with the new DoNER minister VK Singh, who on being asked to implement a scheme for the State, had replied he would visit the State to inspect the ground reality.

He said he had never mentioned the BJP will be contesting against the NPF in a friendly manner.

The BJP had fought both the Congress and the NPF, he stated.

He said the people are aware that there was heavy rigging during the recently concluded 16th Lok Sabha election in the State.

Prof Gangmumei Kamei and RK Ranjan were also present during the conference.

Meanwhile, Chaoba also stated that the Prime Minister has been urged in written to initiate an enquiry into the episode of power-cut in Manipur during the swearing-in ceremony of the Prime Minister on May 26.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/06/no-internal-crisis-in-bjp-chaoba-affirms/

Rangia SDPO deposes before court in Meghen’s case

IMPHAL, May 31: Failure of the prosecutors to produce its witnesses in time continues to hamper the proceeding of the case lodged against United National Liberation Front (UNLF) chief, RK

IMPHAL, May 31: Failure of the prosecutors to produce its witnesses in time continues to hamper the proceeding of the case lodged against United National Liberation Front (UNLF) chief, RK Meghen alias Sanayaima.

The UNLF chief and his 14 associates were again produced before the court this morning around 11 am.

Yet again a prosecution witness of the two who was supposed to appeared today, identified as MC Kuli, digital expert of forensic science laboratory, failed to turn up. Today’s was the fourth instance when the said witness has failed to respond to the court summon.

According to a source, only one prosecution witness Kautishwor Gogoi, sub-divisional police officer, Rangia, Assam, appeared before the court today as prosecution witness.

Gogoi was the officer in-charge, Noonmati police station in 2010. His statement was recorded by the court and later cross examined by defence counsel, informed the source.

The charges framed against Meghen and his 14 other associates include waging war against India, extortion and procuring arms from foreign countries etc (NIA case no.10 of 2010 (special trial) u/s 121/A/120-B/122/16/17/21 UAP Act).

Meanwhile, the prosecution counsel reportedly assured the court that there would be no further hic-up in the future while producing its witnesses, said a source. The court fixed the next round of hearing on June 19 and 20, 2014.

Prof Islam-uddin killing: One more sent to judicial custody

IMPHAL, May 31: A main accused in the murder case of Prof. Islam-uddin, dean of student welfare and professor economics at the Manipur University, has been sent to judicial custody

IMPHAL, May 31: A main accused in the murder case of Prof. Islam-uddin, dean of student welfare and professor economics at the Manipur University, has been sent to judicial custody today.

The accused has been identified Sanabam Gunajit alias Ngongo, 35, son of S Babhaljit Mangang of Uripok Kabrabam Leikai.

He was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Imphal, Cheirap Court and sent to judicial custody by the court till June 13.

Gunajit was arrested by a team of CBI led by DSP, L Hangsing, from house no.B-84 Jeevan Park Uttam Nagar, New Delhi on May 22, 2014.

On May 27, 2014 the CBI produced him before the district session judge Manipur East wherein he was remanded to CBI custody for five days.

Prof Islamudding was shot dead by armed miscreants inside the Manipur University campus on May 25, 2009 evening.

The Singjamei Police registered a case in connection with the incident. Later, the same year, the case was handed over to CBI by the government. On July 31, 2010 the CBI submitted a charge sheet in connection with the case.

Gunajit is the second accused in the case, the CBI has arrested.

Wareppam Janyanta alias Dilip alias Lakpa, 44, son of W Jila of Wangoi Laiphrakpam Leikai one of the main accused is presently in judicial custody. He was arrested by a combined team of CBI and Bihar Police.

Chaoba goes on the offensive condemning blast; Gaikhangam in defensive mode

Home minister has asked State to apprise on law and order situation IMPHAL, May 30: President of BJP Manipur unit Thounoujam Chaoba lambasted the state Home department for its complete

Home minister has asked State to apprise on law and order situation
IMPHAL, May 30: President of BJP Manipur unit Thounoujam Chaoba lambasted the state Home department for its complete failure to maintain law and order in the state.

Chaoba rushed to visit the victims of the bomb blast that occurred in Singjamei May 29, just after his return from Delhi.

It may be mentioned that two persons were killed while several others were injured in the Chingamakhong bomb blast areounf 5.15pm Thursday.

The victims are undergoing treatment at RIMS, Shija, Raj Polyclinic, Advance Hospital and Iboyaima Hospital Singjamei.

Speaking to the media on the sideline of his visit, Chaoba alleged that the blast had occurred because of the state government’s negligence in maintaining law and order.

He said Singjamei is in the heart of the Imphal. The blast occurred at a place where securities are deployed round the clock.

State is now facing the worst law and order situation Chaoba alleged.

He further informed that the Union Home minister Rajnath Singh has taken serious note of the incident.

Accordingly, the minister has demanded a proper appraisal of the law and order situation in the state within 48 hours, he said.

The BJP president strongly condemned the incident and termed it as an inhuman act.

He said such heinous crime should not be repeated in the future. Chaoba said he will meet the Chief Minister to demand proper ex-gratia for the victims.

On the other hand, State deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam also visited the victims of the Singjamei bomb blast, who are now recuperating at different hospitals.

In a defensive tone, the Home minister speaking to the media said there has been no negligence on the part of his department. “This is not an isolated case, even in highly advanced country like US, shooting incident of school children happens”, Gaikhangam said.

Gaikhangam claimed that with the modern technology a powerful bomb can be assembled very easily.

He said that there could be possibility of outsourcing the plantation of bombs to people like drug users who are in need of money.

Condemning the incident, he sought the corporation of the public in preventing such incidents.

Gaikhanagam also visited Rinku Khumukcham Editor of Imphal Times who is currently undergoing treatment in Shija Hospital following an accident, and offered him financial assistance.

Meghen produced before court, prosecution witnesses fail to appear

IMPHAL, May 30: The chairman of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) RK Meghen alias Sanayaima who has been under judicial custody of National Investigation Agency (NIA) along with his

IMPHAL, May 30: The chairman of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) RK Meghen alias Sanayaima who has been under judicial custody of National Investigation Agency (NIA) along with his 14 associates of the outfit was on Friday produced before the Special Court of NIA in Guwahati. However, the prosecution witnesses of the NIA failed to appear before the court.

The number of prosecution witnesses in the case registered by the NIA against RK Meghen and 14 others of the UNLF is 108 out of which the majority are from the NIA.

After the NIA submitted the chargesheet of the case to its Special Court, subsequent proceedings of the case was taken up.

Of the 108 prosecution witnesses, more than 50 have been already crossed examined and their statements recorded, informed sources.

It may be mentioned that MC Kuli, digital expert of the Forensic Science Laboratory and two other prosecution witnesses had also failed to appear before the same court on May 12 and 13.

The three failed to appear before the court today also, however, the court has provided time till Saturday for the witnesses to appear before the court, informed the source.

The UNLF chairman and 14 other associates made physical appearance before the Special Trial Court of NIA on Friday at 10:30 am under case No. 1 of 2010 (Special Trial) V/S 121/121-A/120-B IPC & 16/17/18/20 VA (P) Act, the source said.

Sources also added that the three other members of the UG group, granted bail by the same court were represented by their counsels

After ‘leave camp’ demand, locals raise ‘cancel URF SoO’

IMPHAL, May 30: The JAC formed demanding the immediate shifting of the URF designated camp from Loitang Khonou, Spinning Mill has warned to launch several forms of agitation in case

IMPHAL, May 30: The JAC formed demanding the immediate shifting of the URF designated camp from Loitang Khonou, Spinning Mill has warned to launch several forms of agitation in case the government failed to provide positive response to the demand by Saturday 10am.

In this regard, the JAC president Kh Ibeton Devi said the JAC and family members of the two URF cadres whose bodies were found buried inside the storeroom of the designated camp have already submitted a memorandum to the minister concerned yesterday evening.

While declaring the incident as heinous, a family member of one of the two dead cadres urged the government to take proper action and to cancel the SoO signed with the outfit.

Addressing the media at the Manipur Press Club today, Kh Ibeton Devi said the memorandum has warned that the JAC and the family members are ready to launch several agitations including a State wide general strike in case the government fail to take any positive action on their demand.

She said yesterday, locals of several villages staged a sit in protest near the Loitangkhunou Spinning Mill and later took out a rally around the camp.

The memorandum has also demanded the minister to arrest the culprits involved in the killing of the two at the earliest and to punish them accordingly.

Even though the memorandum had demanded the government to take some positive steps during the deadline set by the JAC, till now there has been no such response from the government, she said.

The JAC and family members will join hands with the various civil society organisations of the State and launch agitations.

A family member of one of the dead cadres said, the act is highly condemnable as the cadres had joined the peace process by signing a memorandum with the government with an aim of returning to the mainstream, she said.

She lamented after the two were reported missing, the family members had contacted the leaders of the outfit who told them repeatedly that the two had deserted the camp during the intervening night of March 18-19 and on May 28 their bodies were recovered buried inside the store room of the designated camp.

She called on the government to take proper action against all involved in the crime and to cancel the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the outfit.

CCpur students’ body resists decision to transfer teachers

LAMKA, May 30: The Churachandpur District Student Union (CDSU), in their continuous opposition to the State government’s order to transfer/ relocate more than 300 teachers from the district, snatched various

CDSU president Chin said that the student body has collected a bunch of files from the ZEO CCpur office and further disclosed that a number of files from 10 leading schools, in addition to the ZEO office, were also collected during the last week.

The president told IFP that they will burn the files if the government did not comply with its demand before June 2 which will be followed by intense agitation.

It may be recalled that the CDSU are demanding the revocation of the government/ cabinet order that will take more than 300 teachers from the district without proper mechanism to replace them. The president added that the decision is biased and has been meted out only in CCpur district.

The president of CDSU also lamented that the people from the valley, where there was no post available are filling up vacant post in the hills and after 2 to 3 years, they leave the district in the lurch.

The exercise was done to spoil the good academic progress brought by the 40 mathematics and science teachers who will be transferred as per the government order which, in turn, will spoil the balance of educational system that has been the hallmark of the success of education in CCpur district, Chin stated.

The CDSU also said that the students of the district got disturbed as the teachers are to be transferred from their duties which make teacher-student ratio of 95:1.

UG cadres held during separate CI operation in Manipur

IMPHAL May 30: Imphal East District Police commandos on Friday morning conducted a cordon and search operation at Kshetri Leikai Mongkhang Lambi and Ningom Leirak under Irilbung Police Station and

IMPHAL May 30: Imphal East District Police commandos on Friday morning conducted a cordon and search operation at Kshetri Leikai Mongkhang Lambi and Ningom Leirak under Irilbung Police Station and detained eight persons and handed them over to the Irilbung Police station for further verification.

The cordon and search operation was conducted by P Achouba officer In charge Imphal East Commando under the supervision of Singhajit additional, SP operation of Imphal East from the early morning.

Eight persons who failed to produce their proper verifications were detained and handed over to the police station.

Meanwhile, a combined team of the Imphal West District Police commandos and 30 AR arrested an active member of PREPAK, identified as Kshetrimayum Somananda Meitei, 30, son of (L) Ksh Tombi Meitei of Khurai Laishram Leikai from Lamsang Bazar, informed a press statement of the PRO Police.

It said that he was assigned to extort money from shopkeepers, government employees, mobile tower owners and general public by using demand letters for raising fund for PREPAK.

The release further said that Somananda was also involved in transportation of arms and ammunition for the party.

The Bishnupur District Police commandos also conducted search operation at Nambol Khathong area on May 29. During the search operation, one KCP (MTF) cadre identified Wahengbam Inaocha Singh alias Ibomcha alias Ashiky, 34, son of W Irabot Singh of Nambol Khathong was arrested.

In a follow up action, another KCP (MTF) cadre, Khundrakpam Hemanta Singh alias Ahingchamba, 44, son of Kh Thoiba Singh of Laimapokpam Awang Leikai was also arrested from his house, it said.

In an unrelated incident, on May 29, Bishnupur District Police commandos conducted search operation at Leimapokpam area and arrested one cadre of KCP (MTF), Longjam Shyam Singh, 59, son of (L) L Ibochou Singh of Yumnam Huidrom Thiyam Leisangkhong. Investigation revealed that he was involved in extortion of money from the general public, shopkeepers and government employees of Bishnupur district, it said.

Based on information that some active workers of PREPAK (Pro) are going to transport money extorted from general public to their senior cadres staying at Myanmar, commandos of Thoubal District Police conducted frisking and checking at Pallel Bazar near Cdo post on May 29, it said.

The PRO statement said that during the frisking and checking, one active worker of PREPAK (Pro) identified as Sarangthem Johny Meitei, 29, son of S Shyam Meitei of Thabalkhong Sabal Leikai riding in a Maruti van silky silver in colour, bearing registration No MN01X-2555 was arrested along with Rs 201590/- in Indian currency and two I-Phone mobile handsets.

In another follow up action, one of his associates, Sapam Robindro alias Nanao, 35, son of S Bhagirath Singh of Khongjam Patpal was also arrested, it claimed.

Investigation revealed that they were involved in extortion of Rs. 2,01,590 from the contractors at Imphal, the release said.

Traffic disrupted along Mayai Lambi; Imphal unaffected by general strike

IMPHAL, May 30: Normal life and traffic along the Mayai Lambi Mayang Imphal Road on the first day of the 48 hour Manipur bandh launched by the Joint Action Committee

IMPHAL, May 30: Normal life and traffic along the Mayai Lambi Mayang Imphal Road on the first day of the 48 hour Manipur bandh launched by the Joint Action Committee formed in connection with the alleged shooting incident at the Ekop Ningthou Yakabu Semgat Sagat Lup Uchiwa Hayel.

Supporters had burned down a Bajaj Pulsar motor bike for defying the bandh at Yumnam Huidrom informed a source.

The effect of the bandh was hardly visible in Imphal, and all passenger service vehicles were seen plying along all routes. Markets and shops remained open for the day as normal.

However, Mayai Lambi Mayang Imphal areas were mostly affected as bandh supporters were seen coming along the road and disturbing vehicular traffic by burning tyres and placing rock boulders and other objects in the middle of the road.

All markets and shops in the area remained closed during the bandh.

Bandh supporters burned down a Bajaj Pulsar motor bike at Yumnam Huidrom bazar area this noon.

A JAC member lamented that the police have been unable to arrest even a single individual involved in the firing at the Uchiwa, some five days ago, where several persons including a MPS officer of the Mayang Imphal police was injured.

He said in case the government continue and if the government take the positive steps they will take other formed of agitation, he said.

Dam sites in Thoubal inspected

IMPHAL, May 30: The parliamentary secretary in charge of the two departments of Minor Irrigation and Information and Public Relations, K. Meghachandra led an official team to tour and inspect

IMPHAL, May 30: The parliamentary secretary in charge of the two departments of Minor Irrigation and Information and Public Relations, K. Meghachandra led an official team to tour and inspect all major dam projects in the Thoubal district undertaken by the state government today.

The team visited dams still under construction to make and assessment of work progress, as well as those which are already in operation to see if there are shortfalls in their maintenance and to assess repair needs.

The dams visited by the team today included the Ithei Maru Dam in the Kakching assembly constituency, the Wangjing Canteen Dam in the Wangjing assembly constituency, the Heirok Litan Dam in the Heirok assembly constituency and the Samhoubi Dam at Nongpok Sekmai.

The team found out that the Ithei Mary Dam, which has been operation for years now, is in need for major renovation and repair works. The rest of the dam projects are still very new and are now n the process of being constructed. The team only made assessments of the progress of work there.

The Wangjing Canteen Dam is now almost complete. The Heirok dam construction is only in its initial days while the Nongpok Sekmai Dam already needs some repair work.

Speaking to the media after the tour, Meghachandra said there has been no dispute with local clubs in the conduct of the annual mela in the district this financial year, however there has been some disruptions in the schedules.

In this regard, official letters had been served to the local D.C. and S.P. as well as the concerned MP, but all these were to no avail and the disruptions could not be prevented.

He said there were reports on occasions that the mela continued till late into the nights under security, and there were cases of drunken revelries by some people with nobody to stop them.

This being the case, local clubs got together and decided that the mela would have to conclude without extending any further from the schedule date of conclusion.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/05/dam-sites-in-thoubal-inspected/

Inclusive education caregivers stage protest

IMPHAL, May 30: A sit-in-protest was staged against the continuing injustice and discrimination towards the Inclusive Education (IE) caregivers under SSA by the concerned department with respect to their contract agreements. They were all appointed under the advertisement no. 1/3/09/-SSA (SMA) dated 21/03/ 2011.

The sit-in-protest was staged at Khuyathong on Friday after a memorandum had been submitted to Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh on Thursday.

Speaking to media persons, Kh Premita, a protesting caregiver, stated that if IE caregivers are disengaged it would prove difficult while handling children with special needs (CWSN).

Continuing that IE caregivers are qualified in the detection and management of CWSN both in pre and post natal cases and these services are indispensable in identification and support of the CWSN, she said that the IE caregivers were in service without pay since March 2014 but insisted on rendering service considering their requirement by CWSN.

She alleged that IE caregivers are not treated equally with others staffs engaged and appointed on contract.

“If the caregivers are not engaged again or the contract agreements are not renewed then it will severely affect the livelihood of most of them as they are over aged to apply for other jobs. Such a step will put great challenges to the implementing agency in catering the needs and importance of CWSN,” she said, highlighting their role in education of children with CWSN and in reinforcing and enrolling CWSN in normal government schools and indentifying them.

The caregivers are in a unique position to help the children in their pursuit of formal education, she said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/05/inclusive-education-caregivers-stage-protest/

MSAP against racial profiling

IMPHAL, May 30: The recent series of incidents of assaults, molestation as well as racial discrimination against the people from the north-eastern states in the major cities where a good

IMPHAL, May 30: The recent series of incidents of assaults, molestation as well as racial discrimination against the people from the north-eastern states in the major cities where a good numbers of students and working professional are populated has largely affected to the students communities said Anthony Moirangthem, president, Manipur Students’ Association of Pune (MSAP) speaking to the media the Manipur Press Club, today. Anthony said that they have submitted a memorandum on May 19 to the Governor of Manipur, Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and Education minister in this regard. He further said that MSAP strongly appealed to the authorities concerned of the Manipur state Government and Central Government to take immediate steps in the major cities to end the racial discrimination and take serious action against racial labeling. He opined that the history and unique culture of the northeast should be included at the school level education curriculum of other states and central boards. He further maintained that due to the law and order situation in the state there has been mass exodus of the students to other states. In this regard there is need for hostels, particularly for working women professionals with proper security, he added.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/05/msap-against-racial-profiling/

Two killed, scores injured in Chingamakhong blast

Not due to lapses of Home dept, Chief Minister clarifies IMPHAL, May 29: Atleast two persons were killed and 15 others injured when a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded

Not due to lapses of Home dept, Chief Minister clarifies

IMPHAL, May 29: Atleast two persons were killed and 15 others injured when a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded this evening at a crowded mini market shed of Singajamei Chingamakhong right at the foothill of the 40th Assam Rifle occupied Chinga (hillock).

Sources said that the blast occured around 5.15 pm.

All the injured have been rushed to various hospitals in Imphal a majority of them at RIMS hospital.

With the conditions of the injured reported to be critical the death toll is expected to rise.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh had also visited the injured at RIMS.

He was accompanied by PHE minister Hemochandra, Commerce and Industry minister Govindas Konthoujam, IFC minister Ngamthang Haokip, DGP Manipur and other top police brass.

Soon after the blast, a team of Imphal police led by Clay Khongsai IG Law and Order, I K Muivah DIG Range I, Dr Ak Jhalajit Superintendent of Police Imphal west and other police officer of Imphal west district rushed to the blast site and inspected the area.

Singjamei MLA, I Hemochandra and Govindas Konthoujam minister Commerce and Industry also visited the blast site.

Hemochandra strongly condemned the attack terming it an act of cowardice.

The deceased have been identified as one Syamsankar Rai, 31, son of (L)) Ram Shinha Rai and Arvind Rai, son of Chakaldip Rai, 20 both hailing from Mujafarpur district, Bihar.

Out of the 15 injured persons 8 persons were admitted to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, the injured persons have been identified as Bolendra Roy, 32, son of Guni Roy, Sanjoy Roy son of Jayenta Roy, Arun Mate, 38, son of Bangali Mate and Papu Shah 25 son of Gula Saha all hailing from Bihar’s Muzaffarpur.

Others who are admitted in the RIMS hospital include Meisnam Manisana, 55, wife of Bono of Singjamei Chingamathak Meisnam Leikai, Chanam Bimol, 27, son of Iboyai of Ngairangbam Awang Maning Leikai, Thounaojam Shyamkanhai, 51, son of (L) Babu of Singjamei Chingamathak and Thongram Bimol, 57, son of (L) Shamu of Singjamei Waikhom Leirak.

Five other injured were admitted at the Advance Hospital, two other at the Iboyaima Hospital and two other at the JNIMS.

Their identities could not be ascertained however, till the filling of this report.

Speaking to media persons at the hospital, the Chief Minister termed the attack as an act of coward that should be condemned by one and all at the strongest term.

“The government will not spare the perpetrators and have alerted all the police stations”, asserted the Chief Minister.

When queried whether the attack could possibly be targeted at the non-locals, the Chief Minister did not ruled out the possibility and cited that the area is often crowded with non-locals.

However, he did not draw a conclusion to the theory and rather added that the motive could be ascertained only after proper investigation and apprehension of the perpetrators involved.

At the same time, the Chief Minister clarified that incident cannot be construed due to lapses of the home department adding that the Government cannot give security for everyone.

Yet, the government has been trying their best to prevent such incident in areas especially where AFSPA has been lifted.

Sharmila maintains faith of AFSPA repeal under Modi government

IMPHAL, May 29: “Lets’ pray that the government understands the hardships faced by the people under AFSPA, and repeals the Act at the earliest, Irom Sharmila told the State media

IMPHAL, May 29: “Lets’ pray that the government understands the hardships faced by the people under AFSPA, and repeals the Act at the earliest, Irom Sharmila told the State media soon after touching down at the Imphal Airport.

She arrived this morning after her appearance before the Metropolitan Magistrate at Patiala House, New Delhi Wednesday.

She said her stay at the national capital was short and much to her dismay; she failed to meet newly sworn in Prime Minister Narendra Modi due to his busy schedule.

Irom Sharmila said she had written a letter and a poem addressed to Modi. “I will definitely meet him if I get the chance.”

The constitutional rights are there in the first place for the welfare of the people, however, the Indian government continues its violation by not letting the citizens of the North East enjoy the full benefits, she lamented.

If the citizens are against an incumbent government, then the government needs to understand the needs and hardships faced by the former, she expressed before adding after all it is the public who gave power to the government.

When asked if she would like to reach out for the UNO and plead her case, in case the Indian government fail to solve the issue, she said if the authorities concerned, intellects, public support her, she will definitely plead the issue before the UNO.

However, I cannot do much alone as I am powerless and do not have much knowledge, the anti-AFSPA crusader told the media.

Sharmila said before her Court appearance, she was kept in a police station and made to wait for several hours.

In order to avoid the media waiting for her at the Court premises, she was taken inside the Courtroom through the back door, she resented.

Sharmila left Imphal on May 27, for her Court appearance accompanied by a doctor, a nurse of the JNIMS and a personnel each from the Jail and Manipur Police.

Consultative meet on JJ Act details finer points at CCpur

LAMKA, May 29: The Manipur Alliance for Child Rights, Churachandpur Chapter (MACR-CC) organised a one day consultative meeting on Juvenile Justice Act, POCSO Act, Substance Abuse Act and the role

LAMKA, May 29: The Manipur Alliance for Child Rights, Churachandpur Chapter (MACR-CC) organised a one day consultative meeting on Juvenile Justice Act, POCSO Act, Substance Abuse Act and the role of media in relation to the laws.

The district’s SP, Kabib, while speaking as a resource person said that the children are safeguarded by the law and in this regards, the police have special justice units led by SI/ASI rank officers, particularly women personnel.

The role of the society and the media on the issue are very important, he said before appealing to all to take active roles.

The SP said it is a sensitive issue, any victim or accused, i.e juvenile in conflict with the law, need to be handled with utmost care.

He said a police shouldn’t be in his official uniforms rather should be in civvies, while handling the victims or accused.

Woman police are more preferred during such cases, he said and added the personnel should act according to the convenience of the child.

And even if such an accused is found guilty, he or she should be put in an observation home and not in one run by the police.

IFP Group Editor, Pradip Phanjoubam speaking on the topic ‘role of media’ said the media persons need to be committed in their work, as competition is high.

He said the impression that the media/ press know it all is a wrong conception and further suggested organising of periodical refresher courses.

He also said that the practice of printing the details and pictures of juveniles is wrong and call for stern actions.

The other resource person, Pishak, head of the New Life Foundation and the secretary of MACR and a noted activist of child rights said the public need to be more aware of the JJ Act, and learn more of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

MACR- CC rev Dr Nicky said substance abuse is one root cause of disorder in the district, and all should be part of the fight to eradicate such evils.

Retrospection, introspection and action are the need of the hour, he expressed.

He further lauded all those who are attending the meeting and commended the Khuga Company Station of the Red Shield Division and its CO Colonel Anil.

Secy info and pub, MACR-CC Alex Guite gave the vote of thanks, and express thankfulness to the participant media persons, and then the resource persons.

He further thanked Khuga Company col Anil for his help in organising the meeting, DC PK Jha for allowing the use of the District Training Centre and others.

Remove URF, locals demand after bodies recovered from its camp

IMPHAL, May 29: A day after the recovery of the partly decomposed bodies of two missing URF cadres from inside their designated camp at Loitang Khunou, residents of the neighbouring

IMPHAL, May 29: A day after the recovery of the partly decomposed bodies of two missing URF cadres from inside their designated camp at Loitang Khunou, residents of the neighbouring villages today demanded the immediate removal of URF designated camp from the area.

The locals had convened an emergency meeting at Mini Market Shed Loitang Khonou and decided to demand the immediate removal of the URF designated camp from Loitang Khunou Spinning Mill at the earliest.

As a mark of protest, the locals also took out a silent protest rally at Khurkhul Lamkhai this afternoon.

Today’s emergency meeting was attended by locals of Loitang Khounou, Senjam Chirang, Moibung Khunou, Khurkhul, Loitang Khulen, Senjam Khounou, Phumlou, Mayang langjing and locals of Loitang Senjam.

Speaking to the media, one of the Meira Paibi leaders, revealed that during the meeting, the villagers deliberately discussed the several anti-social issues involving URF cadres ranging from burglary, slaughtering of livestock of the villagers during the past few months including the recovery the two dead bodies of URF cadres.

The URF is presently a signatory of the Suspension of Operation with the government is lodged at its designated camp at Loitang Khunou, Spinning Mill. Two of its cadre who went missing during the intervening night of March 18-19 earlier this year were recovered yesterday buried inside the storeroom of the camp.

She continued, the militants under SoO have become a nuisance lately for the villagers.

The villagers have lodged several complaints against the URF cadres earlier with the concerned Sekmai Police, she added.

Moreover, the frustrated villagers have also staged various forms of protests against their (URF) act, she asserted.

A memorandum is expected to be submitted to the Chief Minister and Home minister soon.

Telegraph report says NSCN(IM) ready for MNF style truce

IMPHAL, May 29: An Agartala datelined story in the popular daily, The Telegraph, Kolkata, by its Tripura correspondent, Sekhar Datta, said the NSCN(IM) is ready for concluding a truce with

IMPHAL, May 29: An Agartala datelined story in the popular daily, The Telegraph, Kolkata, by its Tripura correspondent, Sekhar Datta, said the NSCN(IM) is ready for concluding a truce with the Government of India after 17 years of holding ceasefire to facilitate peace negotiations.

The report which quoted “a senior Intelligence Bureau, IB, official said the agreement is fashioned along the lines Mizoram bought its peace nearly three decades ago.

The report went further to say that “as part of the formula, NSCN (Isak-Muivah) chairman Isak Chishi Swu — and not general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah — will become the chief minister of Nagaland, taking along some of his close followers in the council of ministers, and will face fresh elections within six months”.

(Imphal based Newmai News Service, in a Dimapur datelined story however said a prominent but unnamed NSCN(IM) leader refuted the veracity of the claims of the Telegraph report calling it absurd in an interview to the news service.)

The Telegraph report quoted the IB official as saying the proposal by central interlocutors was being fine-tuned after which it would be submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and home minister Rajnath Singh.

It further quoted the source that Neiphiu Rio will further have a key role in finalising the matter.

It said “Rio, who resigned as the chief minister of Nagaland in the second year of his third term in office, has already been elected to the Lok Sabha. He is likely to be included in the Union council of ministers in the next reshuffle of the NDA government. It is believed that his chosen successor T.R. Zeliang will resign to pave the way for assumption of power by the NSCN (I-M) leaders.”

The Telegraph report further claimed the “official said Rio, an influential Angami Naga leader, had all along been a votary of peaceful settlement to Nagaland’s insurgency problem. He had been upset with former chief minister S.C. Jamir’s attempts at scuttling the peace talks and had also resigned from the Congress in 2002.”

The report further said Rio floated the Naga People’s Front (NPF) and with other regional parties and the BJP, formed the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland, which won Assembly elections thrice in 2003, 2008 and 2013. Before the 2013 Assembly elections, Rio had said all 60 members of the Nagaland Assembly had offered to quit to pave the way for a settlement.

The reporter further quoted the IB official as saying Rio “resigned as chief minister and contested the Lok Sabha polls only to help the process of peace.”

The tripartite Mizoram Peace Accord was signed by then Union home secretary R.D. Pradhan, late Mizo National Front (MNF) leader Laldenga and then Mizoram chief secretary Lalkhama on June 30, 1986. Following the accord and as per a tacit understanding, Mizoram chief minister Lal Thanhawla, who headed a Congress government, resigned, paving the way for assumption of power by Laldenga and his colleagues, who were required to face Assembly polls within six months. Laldenga won the Assembly polls held in February 1987. That had put an end to the two-decade-old insurgency in Mizoram and peace still prevails in the state.

“Under the federal structure, state govt won’t be affected under any union govt”

IMPHAL, May 29: India is a federal government and every ruling party must be aware of the responsibilities of both the centre and state governments. We believe that the new

IMPHAL, May 29: India is a federal government and every ruling party must be aware of the responsibilities of both the centre and state governments. We believe that the new NDA government will not cause any problems in carrying out our responsibilities. This was stated by Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee Gaikhangam in an interactive session with the media at his office chambers on Thursday evening.

A propaganda doing the round in Manipur is that after the NDA government led by BJP has come to power at the centre the Congress party is divided among various workers which is totally baseless, he said.

The MPCC president said: “The party is in a strong position in the whole country after two Congress MPs won the election as compare to other states. There is unity in MPCC under the leadership of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi. The party and its active workers are all together and the government is working in a smooth way. Though there has been a change at the centre, it will be of no consequences to our state because Indian government has a federal structure.”

The system is almost the same whether a Congress or a non-Congress government is in the centre. There was a time when the UPA government ruled and many states have different parties. Sometimes, some parties expressed triumph beyond limitations which is not good, the MPCC president said.

When quizzed about the cabinet reshuffle, he said it’s up to the Chief Minister to decide as he knows better about what is good for the government or not and has to consult the party and the high command.

He clarified that when he along with the Chief Minister went to Delhi, they didn’t attend the CWC meeting but informed the high command that they have delivered on their promise of sending two MPs.

The CLP meeting is likely to discuss the party matters on the present situation on May 30 as a part of the periodic sitting of the Congress once a month.

In the CWC meeting, the leaders may discuss the reasons of the party’s devastating failure in the last general election. It may also discuss for more vigorous election preparations for the coming election.

Gaikhangam has strongly condemned the Singjamei bomb blast which took place at around 5:10 pm on Thursday which left two persons dead and injured several others.

Explaining that there is nothing to be gained from such gun and bomb culture except the loss of lives of our own people, he said such incident gave a fear psychosis among the civilians and such dastardly acts by criminal minds in public places must be highly condemned.

“The Home department will take up major and necessary actions against such cold blooded criminals while also making it sure not to harass people. Such actions couldn’t be done by UGs without the support of drug users or people desperate for a single meal. MPCC shares the sorrow and pain of the bereaved families every moment.”

He asked the people concerned to think twice before doing such actions and the outcome of the consequences in future.

Talking about the gruesome double murder at the URF designated camp in which the decomposed bodies of the URF cadres were recovered on Wednesday, he said it is unfortunate as the duo have come out to join the peace process and the main stream to lead a normal life after being in jungle for long.

“The Home department will seriously look into the matter and go to the bottom of the case. The leader is out of station as of now but we will track him down soon. We need to re-look on the terms of the peace process agreement because the group has violated the SoO ground rules but it’s for the court to decide and give the verdict. Till now, there is no knowledge of who actually committed the crime whether as an individual or a group,” he said.