JCILPS – Page 12 – Manipur News

No let up in ILPS movement: Road blocks give way to suspension of all economic activities

IMPHAL, July 20: There is no let up in the movement demanding implementation of the Inner Line Permit System or a similar legislation in the State, although supporters turned to

A torch rally taken out in New Checkong area demanding implementation of the ILPS.

IMPHAL, July 20: There is no let up in the movement demanding implementation of the Inner Line Permit System or a similar legislation in the State, although supporters turned to suspending all economic activities and staging sit in protests rather than imposing road blocks as the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System initiates its new course of agitations.

Normal life in the State capital and the valley districts was greatly hampered as business activities were suspended in response to a call from the JCILPS. Road blocks were also witnessed at a few places.

Since early morning, womenfolk came out to the streets and staged sit in protests.

Women vendors suspended their economic activities and staged sit in protests at their market sheds at several places.

Sit in protests were also witnessed on the road sides in almost every locality. Formations of human chain were also witnessed at different localities including at the Keishamthong Elangbam Leikai, Thangmeiband, Sagolband, Nagamapal among others.

The movement supporters held placards demanding immediate implementation of the ILPS, punishing the police personnel involved in the death of Sapam Robinhood, etc.

Residents of Kotha Khabam Maning Leikai also staged a sit in protest at their local community hall. Similar sit in protests were also witnessed at Awang, Mayai and Mantra Leikais of the locality.

Locals also blocked the road demanding punishment of the police personnel involved in the death of Robinhood.

Agitators also blocked the Uripok-Kangchup road and the Imphal-Jiribam road at different places since early morning affecting traffic flows, however, no untoward incidents were reported from the said areas.

Sit in protests were also staged at Thangmeiband, Uripok, Moirangkhom, Yaiskul Police Lane, Keisamthong Kabui Khul, Keishamthong, Singjamei, Singjamei Wangma Kshetri Leikai, UYO-WWA-WDA Club of Bheigyapati Leikai, Heirangoithong Bazaar etc.

Meira rallies were also taken out at several places including at New Checkon area late in the evening.

A large number of supporters from Sagolband who had taken out a rally met and converged with another large number supporters coming from the Uripok side near the Bir Tikendrajit Flyover, however, police disperse them back to their respective areas in a peaceful manner.

The Kakhulong Women Society also took out a torch rally demanding and supporting the implementation of ILPS in the State. The torch rally which started from Kakhulong passed through Masjid Road and Paona Bazar.

The Sangaiprou Kabui Khul also staged a sit in protest at Sangaiprou Kabui Khul demanding implementation of ILP in the State.

The All Manipur Nupi Manbi Association also staged a sit in protest at Khurai Lamlong Bazar supporting the public movement for implementation of the ILPS or a similar law in the State.

Our community also shares the fear of the people of the State in the absence of an Act like the ILPS, said secretary of the association Santa Khurai.

Santa also said that it is their bounded duty to support the mass movement.

Hyderabad Manipuri Society organised ‘Candle light vigil’

ilp, ilps, jcilps, hyderabad manipuri society

Hyderabad Manipuri Society, Hyderabad organised a peaceful candle light vigil at at Doyens Township Colony, Serilingampally on Saturday, 18th July 2015. Photo by HYMS

Hyderabad Manipuri Society (HYMS) has organized a peaceful “CANDLE LIGHT VIGIL” at Doyens Township Colony, Serilingampally on Saturday, 18th July 2015, to condemn the atrocious act of police force which resulted in the brutal killing of student, Sapam Robinhood ,and to demand the implementation of ILP in Manipur. HYMS observed 2-minutes of silence as a mark of respect to the departed soul and prayed for the soul to rest in peace. We also conveyed its condolence to the family of Sapam Robinhood and shared its grief. HYMS strongly condemn the police action that led to civilians and students injuries over the last two weeks in Manipur, who were protesting against the Manipur government insensitive visitors bill and demanding full implementation of ILP. We support the implementation of ILP in – No uncertain term.

HYMS can be reached at hyderabadmanipurisociety(at)gmail(dot)com .

ILP amasung political leader singi vote bank policy

I.L.P issue asida some political leader kharana magi magi kendrada leiba mitop kharagi vote phangnanabagi I.L.P issue asida kaya pukning changsindaba yaoba khara aduna manipur government gi I.LP ga related leiba Officer amadi minister singi marakta mot manadaba khara yaoramgani maram aduna I.L.P issue asi kaya serious oidaba aduna praja eikhoida laakkadouriba macha mashu sing kamaina leihougadage meitei haiba jaati asi mutlakpagi mami sami urakpadunani ngasi eikhoina tumba chapham khangdana leiriba mayam ase kanasu natte eikhoi eikhoi e amatani khallaga miyamna thagatlakliba minister singsina masagi idendity khanjallaktaba asi eikhoigidi laibak thibani aduga amaromda eikhoina I.L.P chatnahallu haibasida kanagumba kharana atoppa phattaba romda puthoklaga eikhoig mayamga leiminaraklaba ipa ipu haaktakdagi leiminarakpa tatna thanaba yadraba atoppa jati haibadi non manipuri singda I.L.P chatnahallu haiba system asi lanna uhanba asinasu mot manadaba yaorakpara haina khalli aduba eikhoina taalliba I.L.P system asi mitop tanthoknaba wakhallonda pusillakpa natte supnatagi atoppa state kharada chatnahallaga aduga manipur da chatnahandaba asi indian govt gi policy da makhoida eikhoi manipur gi mathakta kari policy oiramgani khanbada akiba kiningai oiba wakhan khanthaba chumbra khalli aduna ei khoi amatani supnatagi govt gi law gi thongda system amakhak chatnahanbiyu haibani .(mayamna comment asi pabiraga asoiba yaoragadi haibiraku achumba oiragana mathakta panjakhiba wahei sing ase gyan tahoudaba atoppa jati singda khanghanbiyu eikhoi masel khatnaba yade eikhoi amatani haiba wakhallon purakpada khajikta mateng oigadra khanduna miyamda wahei asi haijabani)

The short article was sent by Momon Thoudam from Jiribam. He is Special correspondent for www.kanglaonline.com. He can be reached at thoudammomo(at)gmail(dot)com.

Manipuri students in Pune demands introduction of ILP in Manipur: MSAP PR

Pune, 14 July 2015 : The Manipur Students’ Association, Pune (MSAP) organized a peaceful rally on 14-July 2015 at Pune University Campus, Pune & also observed a 2 minutes silence

MSAP rally demanding introduction of ILPS in Manipur.

Pune, 14 July 2015 : The Manipur Students’ Association, Pune (MSAP) organized a peaceful rally on 14-July 2015 at Pune University Campus, Pune & also observed a 2 minutes silence to condemn the killing of one the students who was part of the peaceful rally demanding the introduction of the Inner Line Permit system (ILPS) in the state.

On July -8, a 16 year school boy, Mr. Sapam Robinhood was hit on the face by a tear gas shell fired from a close range in an effort by the state police to block a rally at Khurai, the impact had resulted in his tragic death.

The Students association of Manipur, Pune (MSAP) strongly condemned the current violation of basic human rights in the state and taken a strong resolution to support in whatever way possible in fighting against any human right violation in the state.

(MSAP can be reached at prezmsap@gmail.com)

Manipur ILPS demand: General strike in Jiribam

Jiribam, 14 July 2015 : JCILPS Jiribam branch enforced general strike at different places and market areas in Jiribam sub-division. Leingangpokpi, Lalpani bazar and Champanagar were mainly affected by

ILPS demand agitation in Champanagar, Jiribam

Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/manipur-ilps-demand-general-strike-in-jiribam/

Women vendors` ILPS rally stopped midway

IMPHAL, July 15: Angry womenfolk of the three Ima Keithels took out a protest rally against the three months time set by the House to bring out a fresh bill

Police women trying to control vendors of Ima Keithels during a protest rally.

IMPHAL, July 15: Angry womenfolk of the three Ima Keithels took out a protest rally against the three months time set by the House to bring out a fresh bill which can protect the indigenous people during its special sitting today.

The women protestors demanded implementation of a bill at the earliest to check the unbridled entry of non-locals into the State.

Decrying police brutality in controlling the present ongoing movement, they further demanded that the police personnel involved in the death of Sapam Robinhood should be punished at the earliest.

The rally started around 12:30 pm from the bazaar area and attempted to march towards the Assembly building where the one day emergency sitting of the Assembly was underway.

Police attempt to stop them resulted in a tussle, however, an understanding was brought about soon between the two groups and the protestors turnaround from the Bir Tikendrajit Flyover and entered into the Ima Keithel.

During the short rally, around 200 women vendors of the three keithels shouted slogans condemning the police personnel involved in the death of Sapam Robinhood and implementation of the ILPS in the State at the earliest.

Meanwhile, residents of New Checkon road, Palace Gate also staged a mass sit in protest demanding implementation of the ILPS in the State by blocking one side of the road.

Residents of Keishampat also demonstrated at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai supporting the demand for implementing ILPS in the State and punishment for the police personnel responsible for Robinhood`™s death.

The Film Forum, Manipur also staged a sit in protest in front of the Usha Cinema hall.

Around 100 well-known actors, actresses and others hold placards condemning the death of S Robinhood and asking the government to act now to protect the indigenous people.

Following the sit in protest, they visited Robinhood`™s home at Khurai Lairikyengbam Leikai.

Meanwhile, an effigy of the Chief Minister was burn at Tera Bazar, while protestors from Khurai Leirikyengbam Leikai also blocked the Dingku Road in protest against the resolution of the House.

Local clubs and meira paibis of Tentha area also took out a meira rally this evening showing support for the ILPS movement.

Around 500 individuals participated in the rally.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/women-vendors-ilps-rally-stopped-midway/

MSAD holds public meeting against demographic invasion by the state policies and state atrocities

Office of the Manipur Students’ Association Delhi New Delhi Press release Ref.No.:MSADPR20150711

Office of the Manipur Students’ Association Delhi

New Delhi

Press release

Ref.No.:MSADPR20150711 Date: 11/7/2015

A Public meeting was held against the demographic invasion by the state policies and state atrocities on July 14, 2015 at Delhi University Garden. The meeting was organized by Manipur Students’ Association Delhi and took these resolutions.

1) Issuance of passes/permits to outsiders/Non Manipuries –(Manipuries are those people/communities who have been recognized by the state government )

(a) Passes would be with limited validity

2) Not to allow permanent settlement to non -Manipuries in Manipur.

(a) Multinational companies and state cannot buy / give (i) Individual and Community owned land.

3) Marking 1951 as the base year to differentiate between migrants/Non Manipuries from Manipuries,/People of Manipur .

4) Denying land holding rights to outsiders/ Non Manipuris,

5) Setting up of a full-fledged Labour Department to regulate entry of inter-State migrants and commencement of detection of migrants/outsiders.

(a) There should be a monitoring committee from civil society organizations from the state to check the functioning of the committee/department appointed by the government that SSC should be acknowledged by the Government.

6)In keeping with the historicity and contemporary needs of Manipur as a geo-political entity whose existence, as the first Schedule of the Indian Constitution acknowledges, precedes the adoption of the Constitution of India, all necessary constitutional and administrative steps must be taken to protect and preserve the Manipur State and her indigenous people.

(a)Indian constitution should be amended to implement the ILP/MSPC (Manipur State Permit System)

7) Either the Government of Manipur or the Union Government of India should not enact any legislation or administrative step that go against the spirit and letter of above basic demands.

The meeting strongly endorsed to adopt these approaches to be adopted by the people who are part of the ongoing movement for Manipur State Permit System/ Inner Line Permit System

a) An open dialogue for all the communities of Manipur would be held in the ongoing movement.
b) Political class and political consciousness program would be held for the mass awareness
c) Inter- communities dialogue within the communities of Manipur would be held as part of the ongoing struggle for demanding ILP/MSP( Manipur State Permit)
d) Any anti – non Manipuri / communal discourses would not be inserted in the process of mobilization.
e) Demographic invasion is rooted in state policies. Demographic invasion is systematically done by the state policies and the target of the movement would be against the state and its policies not against non Manipuries/ migrants who have come for their livelihood.

Resolution on State repression

1) Justice should be delivered to Sapam Robinhood and all the injured persons under state atrocities during the movement

2) Government impose curfew should be lifted and normal life should be restored immediately

3) The state should not curtail the democratic rights of the students to take part of the people’s movement.

4) Students have every right to participate in the people’s movement.

5) State should restore normal class from imposed curfew in the educational institutions.

6) A proposed draft would be prepared to safeguard the indigenous people of Manipur and that will be sent to JCILPS.

MSAD can be reached at msad.manipur@gmail.com

General strike affects normal life; no untoward incident reported

IMPHAL, July 14: The 14-hour state-wide general strike called by the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System brought the State to a complete halt today. Bandh supporters came on

Manipur ILP Demand: Women agitators blocking a road.

IMPHAL, July 14: The 14-hour state-wide general strike called by the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System brought the State to a complete halt today.

Bandh supporters came on the streets and demonstrated at various places as shops and other business establishments remained shut-off for the day and vehicles including passenger services remained off the roads.

Meanwhile as part of the movement demanding implementation of the ILPS in the State, sit in protests were witnessed in various localities in the State capital including at Luwangsangbam, Lairikyengbam Leikai, Khurai Sajor Laikai, Thoidringjam Leikai, Yaiskul Police Lane, Soibam Leikai, Wangkhei, Palace Compound, Mahabali Kabui Khul, Naharup Mayai Leikai, Singjamei Chingam Leikai, Lilong, Sagolband area etc.

Protestors`™ and bandh supporters also burn effigies of Chief Minister and other MLAs demanding dismissal of the police personnel involved in the death of student Sapam Robinhood.

Road blocks were also witnessed at Thangmeiband road, Khuman Lampak Bus Terminus, Lairikyengbam Leikai, Khurai Ahongei, Soibam Leikai, Nongmeibung, Heirangoi thong etc

Agitators remained on the streets enforcing the 14 hour general strike.

Streets in the State capital wore deserted looks.

Meanwhile, demands were made to punished the involved police personnel in the killing of Sapam Robinhood and to implement the ILPS at the earliest.

However, there were no reports of any untoward incidents till the filing of this report.

Meanwhile, the Kakhulong Women Society also organized a meira rally starting from Khakhulong which continued till Paona Bazaar and ended in front of the Usha Hall.

Later the women folk gathered and condoled Sapam Robinhood and his bereaved family. The women folk also prayed for his soul to remain rest in peace.

The women demonstrators also lit candles in the formation of ILP at Kakhulong main gate.

Joint statement circulated on the occasion of the PROTEST AGAINST BRUTALITY OF STATE FORCES AND TO PROTECT THE PEOPLE OF MANIPUR FROM DEMOGRAPHIC INVASION

INDIA: Manipur Joint Statement Opinions against the Ongoing Indefinite Curfew in Manipur 11th July 2015 In Manipur, there has been a democratic movement to safeguard the rights of

INDIA: Manipur

Joint Statement

Opinions against the Ongoing Indefinite Curfew in Manipur

11^th July 2015

In Manipur, there has been a democratic movement to safeguard the rights of the indigenous peoples. The incumbent regime in the State led by Mr Okram Ibobi has acted contrary to the democratic and legitimate demands of the movement for Inner Line Permit System and the recommendations of the All Political Parties Committee on ILPS (2014). There was a deliberate attempt to protect the interest of the migrant outsiders by arbitrarily passing a bill known as the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers’ Bill 2015, which has not received the assent of the Governor. There were attempts to suppress, at gun point, the protests against the Bill and the popular movement to defend the rights of the indigenous peoples. Brutal police actions have inflicted casualty on several persons. A 16-year old student named Sapam Robinbood, participating in a rally, was killed by the police on July 8, 2015. In order to suppress popular demonstrations against the brutality, the Government immediately imposed an indefinite curfew in the two central districts of Imphal Valley and closed all the educational institutions. Defying the curfew, people came out in the streets of Imphal in great numbers. The police resorted to open aggressive and disproportionate use of force in the form of torture, and cruel and inhuman degrading treatment, indiscriminate use of tear gas and rubber bullets, firing of live rounds upon the protestors and arbitrary detentions with impunity.

It is against this backdrop that we are coming up with a joint statement under the title Opinion against the Ongoing Curfew in Manipur.

Government and curfew

There has been unrestrained population invasion by outsiders under the policy and constitutional framework of the Government of India that ostensibly allows free movement of people within the country. The outsiders are enjoying virtual monopoly over commodity and the labour markets of Manipur. On the other hand, the military and corporate and private sector partnership projects have been forcibly taking control of the land and resources without any regulation and restraint. In this situation, it is natural that the indigenous peoples began to take up the initiatives towards defending their identity, market, livelihoods, land and other resources.

The question of defending the rights of the indigenous peoples is a political question that is intricately founded in the context of a worsening socio-economic condition and progressive cultural annihilation. It is the responsibility of a democratic government to bring a political solution to this question. However, the puppet Manipur regime, which functions under the command of the federal Indian pro-corporate and private sector regime, indulge in suppressing this question under the barrel of a gun.

Why is the government indifferent to the universal principle of defending the rights of the indigenous peoples? The government is determined in using curfew to suppress the popular movements to defend the indigenous peoples and the agitations against the summary killings, torture and arbitrary detentions. This predisposition exposes the government as an authoritarian regime of a violent and radical right-wing clique that relies on the gun as the backbone of its enterprise against the people, at the cost of democracy. Judging by the nature of State terrorism, the Government remains the real enemy of democracy.

Police and Curfew

The perception is that the Manipur police is meant for ensuring the security of the people; in fact the regime constantly refers to them as “security personnel”. Those who are employed in this sector are recruited from amongst our citizens, the majority from poor families. The expenditure of their salary, uniforms and weapons are being paid out of the taxes collected from the people including themselves. However, in the past instances and in the present situation, the police have forgotten that they are the citizens of our motherland and have acted brutally. Instead of serving the peoples, they have been converted into a mercenary force of the terrorizing clique that runs the Government.

During the curfew, the Manipur police and its auxiliary forces the India Reserve Battalion (IRB) and Village Defense Force (VDF) have been acting like agents of terror without any restraint. In the name of controlling crowd, which they referred to as “mob control”, they have intentionally violated the standard norms of using ‘firearms’, and have indulged in the widespread use of live bullets, rubber bullets, mock bombs and tear smoke shells with the intention to inflict injury and to kill. The deliberate baton attacks, brutal beatings and firing upon unarmed civilians who were on the run exemplify their terrorist character.

We want to raise some questions to the Manipur police. Aren’t you natives of our motherland, born of the same mothers? Do you really think that there is no share for you in this movement to defend the indigenous peoples? Are you supportive the stand to act against the movement of the indigenous peoples to defend their culture, land and livelihood? Being persuaded by the oppressive cliques and opportunism for a small government salary, promotion and misuse of weapons; how long will you remain standing against legitimate democratic movements concerning our motherland?

Curfew and economic burdens

The immediate tactics of closing down educational institutions and using curfew to suppress the agitation have converted the Greater Imphal area into a war field. Deployment of several rabble rousing police gangs in strategic locations and corners of Imphal has caused obstructions to the free movement of peoples. They indulged in unprovoked baton charging, firing rubber bullets and tear smoke shells on anyone either coming out of a gate or walking on a street. Tear smoke shells have been lobbed into homes too.

The government, instead of bringing a political solution, has spent huge amounts of money in the war effort. Huge amounts from the public exchequer are spent on fuel for bullet proof and armoured vehicles, live ammunition, rubber bullets, mock bombs and tear smoke shells. The government is a favoured customer in the burgeoning market to suppress dissent. When the lack of interest to bring a political solution to vital issues and problems culminated into silencing of democratic voice by spending huge amount of money in war expenditure, whose loss is it? Is this money paid out of the wage labour of those who run the government? No! They do not work with the hands and feet to earn their livelihoods. They exploit peoples and misappropriate public fund to accumulate their wealth. The public fund that they misuse comes from the taxes paid by those who work with labour. Should we agree with this ugly trend of wasting our money to wage war against the people, when it could instead be used for economic production and growth?

The war against the people, as other facet of curfew, has created a big onslaught on their free movement and the local economy. The imposition of the curfew in the central areas of Manipur has not only created obstructions to those who live in those areas, but also on those who earn through daily commuting from the peripheries and those who have to pass through the central areas to reach other destinations on a daily basis. In that sense the curfew has extensive impacts similar to a blockade on the economy and transportation all over Manipur.

The curfew has imposed a big burden on those who are dependent on the Imphal market for their daily consumption. It seriously affected the petty traders who are dependent on the local market for commodity exchange. The marginal labourers who are in search of daily work are badly affected because of the restrictions to free movement. Who will compensate for the loss incurred on the family income due to the obstructions caused by the curfew? If these burdens of the people have not been addressed by those who accumulate huge money through corrupt means and who are enjoying the blessings of the authoritarian regime; it only obviates the fact that they are profiting from oppressing the people and are never for their welfare.

The authoritarian regime knows the aspiration of the exploited and oppressed peoples. But, it does want to address it at the cost of the vested interests of the rulers. Therefore, there is no need of repeatedly conveying the aspirations of the people to them. For several years the peoples have been bearing the burdens of the ugly corrupt model of governance and the tactics of suppression of the democratic voices at gun point. We strongly condemn all these models and tactics.

Statement endorsed by:

1. Akhu Chingangbam, Imphal Talkies.

2. Amit Bhattacharyya, Secretary General, Committee for the Release of Political Prisoners.

3. Anthony Moirangthem, President, Manipur Students Association Pune.

4. Dina Oinam, President, Women Empowerment and Child Development Organization (Manipur).

5. Dr. George T. Haokip, Chairperson, Institute Alternative India.

6. Ishan Chandam, League of the Proletarian Students of Manipur.

7. Jiten Yumnam, Centre for Research and Advocacy Manipur.

8. L. Bijendra khuman, Social Welfare Club Mayang Imphal.

9. Luikang Lamak, Ex-President, Naga Students’ Union. Delhi.

10. Malem Ningthouja, Campaign for Peace & Democracy (Manipur).

11. Padam Kumar, Worker’s Unity Trade Union.

12. Priyobata Irengbam, Manipur Students’ Association Delhi.

13. Roy Laifungbam, Civil Society Coalition for Human Rights In Manipur and UN [Members are: All Manipur Nupi Manbi Association; Centre for Organisation Research & Education; Centre for Research and Advocacy, Manipur; Citizens Concern for Dams and Development; Civil Liberties and Human Rights Organisation; Civil Liberties Protection Forum; Committee on Human Rights, Manipur; Community Network for Empowerment; Extra-judicial Execution Victim Families’ Association Manipur; Families of the Involuntarily Disappeared’s Association Manipur; Forum for Indigenous Perspectives and Action; Human Rights Alert; Human Rights Defenders Manipur; Human Rights Initiative; Human Rights Law Network Manipur; Human to Humane Transcultural Centre for Trauma and Torture Victims; Just Peace Foundation; Life Watch; Manipur Alliance for Child Rights; Movement for Peoples’ Right to Information Manipur; North East Dialogue Forum; Threatened Indigenous Peoples Society; United Peoples Front.]

14. Sanayairanchan Kshetrimayum, Manipur Alert.

15. Sapam Shyamsunder, Irabot Research and Commemoration Committee.

16. Vijay Singh, Editor, Journal Revolutionary Democracy.

11^th July 2015

Joint statement circulated on the occasion of the PROTEST AGAINST BRUTALITY OF STATE FORCES AND TO PROTECT THE PEOPLE OF MANIPUR FROM DEMOGRAPHIC INVASION, organized by the Manipur Students’ Association Delhi, at the University of Delhi, on 11^th July 2015.

Brutality and totally disproportionate use of force by Manipur police, utter failure of state administration : CORE

PRESS RELEASE 10th July 2015 The Centre for Organisation Research and Education (CORE) Manipur continues to reiterate its position that the widely reported brutality and totally disproportionate use of

PRESS RELEASE

10^th July 2015

The Centre for Organisation Research and Education (CORE) Manipur continues to reiterate its position that the widely reported brutality and totally disproportionate use of force by the Manipur Police is a definitive sign of the utter failure of the State administration to respond to the democratic voice of the indigenous people of Manipur in a way that demonstrates its commitments to the Constitution of democratic India and international human rights law.

The reported violent attack today by the police forces on the home of the grieving family of the Late Sapam Robinhood at Khurai Lairikyengbam Leikai, using tear gas and other projectiles, is a clear violation of domestic and international standards of humanitarian and human rights law. In this land, it is the tradition for families to undertake a fast until the last death rites are completed. A family undertaking this ritual fast has been brutally attacked by the state. This act is absolutely unpardonable.

Throughout today, reports continued to pour in along with graphic photographs of civilian protestors all over the Imphal Valley against the homicide committed by the police on 8^th July 2015 and demanding a law that protects the native people of Manipur from annihilation being subjected to torture and cruel and inhuman degrading treatment or punishment by the police.

With this latest development, as reported, the State of Manipur has been purposefully plunged into a situation of direct and violent confrontation between the government and its people. This situation has been allowed to happen during a sitting of the State Assembly. The state government has been distorted into a monolithic oppressive creature that perpetrates open violence against its subjects. The present government, under the leadership of sitting MLAs Okram Ibobi Singh and Gaikhangam as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister who is also in additional charge of home affairs, respectively, has abdicated all moral and legal authority to continue.

We are in total support of the legitimate demands of the people of Manipur for a strong legal statute that provides safeguards to the native population for their survival, livelihood, land and culture. It is utterly beyond our comprehension how legislators elected by the people of Manipur have abandoned them at this critical hour, taking umbrage behind imagined legal technicalities while their collective political will is shamefully surrendered.

We once again appeal to this government to show some basic humanity and respect of the law. A government that has no regard for the law and constitution has no moral authority to issue any direction or advice to the people because it has lost its legitimacy. A full scale impartial judicial inquiry to investigate the events of these last few days is called for, and we are deeply concerned that Manipur is rapidly sinking into total anarchy.

[Dr. Laifungbam Debabrata Roy]

President

Elders’ Council

ILP Totally an adult issue ?

By Rocky Wahengbam “What is ILP?” people ask. Why are youths involved? Do they need to? Are the indigenous people really threatened? Without giving a straight answer ‘Yes’, let us

By Rocky Wahengbam

“What is ILP?” people ask. Why are youths involved? Do they need to? Are the indigenous people really threatened? Without giving a straight answer ‘Yes’, let us first try to understand the issue as a whole. If you’re an outsider and want to travel to Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, you’ll need this Inner Line permit (a type of certificate/paper). Even if you’re an Indian citizen and wish to travel to these places, you’ll need an ILP. This provision was made by Britishers under an Act called as Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, 1873. An outsider cannot take away any rubber, wax, ivory or other forest product (or any book, diary, manuscript, map, picture, photograph, film, article of religious or scientific interest outside these inner line permit areas). This ILP provision was made to give special protection to the indigenous people of the North-east region. If I give the above definition when someone asks about ILP, it would be just a lame one. The present demand for ILP encompasses much more than the above mentioned definition which derives from the Act imposed by the then British for their business interests. In addition, the MRVTMW Act 2015 passed by Manipur Legislative Assembly in March 2015 which awaits the consent of the State Governor neither serves any purpose in protecting the native population.

The JCILPS set up to demand the implementation of the said permit agreed with the All political parties before its drafting of the said bill on 5 major agendas namely : 1) Issuance of passes/permits to outsiders/migrant workers. 2) Not allow their permanent settlement in Manipur. 3) Marking 1951 as the base year to differentiate migrants from original settlers. 4) Denying land holding rights to outsiders/migrants. 5) Setting up of a full-fledged Labour Commission to regulate entry of inter-state workers and detect illegal migrants/outsiders. But, the MRVTMW Act 2015 didn’t talk about land holding rights and didn’t define indigenous/original inhabitants/ permanent settlers. Hence, it ended up backfiring itself. Any act passed which do not ban the land holding rights of non-indigenous outsiders will remain a joke to the demand committee.

The Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Act, 2015 which experienced a walk-out of the 4 Trinamool Congress Opposition MLAs when it was passed in the Assembly in March 2015 failed to capture the aspiration of the people. The Leader of the House CM Ibobi Okram who moved the motion in a hasty manner by proclaiming to make amendments if needed in future, blatantly shows how a Bill which in its soul passed to protect the Indigenous Inhabitants ends up protecting the Migrant Workers. An Act which was hastily passed without paying heed to the All Parties Resolution by projecting that the Govt. has stopped resorting to the ‘delaying tactics’ ends up being a part of the same old game.

What are the implications of ILP? ILP can be used only for travel and not for permanent residency in the area. Outsiders cannot buy property in the state. Inter-racial marriage (Marriage of Manipuris [Kangleichas] with Non-Manipuris) will become minimal as residences of outsiders are not permitted. There will be less competition among the backward tribes and in-flowing foreigners. Although such provisions though are not valid for Central Govt. employees, security personal, etc.

ILP is applicable only to Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, but it is not applicable to Manipur. So, question: Why doesn’t Manipur fall under ILP system? Because Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh were under the British control till independence. So Britishers implemented ILP permit there, but Manipur was princely states so ILP wasn’t implemented here. Although, Manipur (as a princely state before independence) had created its own system of Permits/ passports but it was abolished in 1951. In 2012, Manipur State Assembly also passed a resolution urging Government of India, to implement the ILP system to Manipur. Moreover, these 3 states with all their original inhabitants belonging to the Scheduled tribe list of the First Schedule enjoy protection under Article 342 of the Indian Constitution. This ST status made them easy in implementing the aforementioned ILP. For Manipur, some sections of population particularly the Meeteis which qualifies the definition of ST (primitive traits, geographical isolation, distinct culture, shy of contact with community at large, economically backward as compare to the mainstream society) under the constitution are still not ST and hence, do not enjoy various other constitutional protections.

Pro ILP arguments for Manipur

After independence, the influx of foreigners/non-locals/outsiders in Manipur has increased exponentially. This has led to increased competition (in jobs, business, elections ) among locals and outsiders. Foreigners started standing for local elections and some of them have also emerged victorious! Local youth has to compete with outsiders for state Government jobs, college admissions. Influx of outsiders, changes the demographic structure of the state, in long term, this could pose a major problem to reservation quota for Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes.

Culturally, outsiders bring their language and culture. It poses serious threat to Manipuri language, scripts, local dialects and traditional way of life. Drug trafficking cases, incidents of rape and other crimes in the State have become more rampant due to the influx of outsiders into Manipur. Manipur is one of the six high HIV prevalence states in the country. The influx of migrants is worsening this problem. Lands in tribal belts and blocks are being occupied by non-tribals and Bangladeshis, but the government machineries have done nothing to protect these lands from the encroachers, rather give them ration cards to secure the vote bank. Since the NE states are already backward in areas of education, infrastructure, etc such a competition has passed on to the younger generation. The recent violent riots in Assam is an example on how if immigration is unchecked can lead to severe problems. Outsiders are ready to work for lower wages. This makes difficult for the local Manipuris to get any employment.

Why ILP is a Valid Demand?

ILP system is already in place in Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, then why should it not be implemented in Manipur, which is in the same geographical area, facing similar problems for immigration. ILP system doesn’t PROHIBIT outsiders from entering into a state. It merely requires them to get registered so they can be easily identified. Any under-privileged section of the citizens residing in the territory of India or any part there of having a distinct language, script or culture of its own shall have the right to conserve the same. This demand is therefore constitutional and legal.

Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill-2015

The Bill originally suffered for bringing out without penal clauses violating Article 35 a (ii) of the Indian Constitution. Without penal provisions in the Bill, it was framed like a tiger without fangs or claws. Firstly, the title of the Bill is a disgrace. The title which seeks to protect migrant workers instead of the indigenous people of Manipur just goes over my head. I cannot comprehend why such an Introduction was put forth in the bill to highlight the aims and objectives of the Bill when there is already an Act called State Migrant Workmen Act-1979 to protect Inter-state migrant workers. The introduction which says – A Bill to provide for registration of visitors, tenants and migrant workers for their safety and security and for maintenance of public order in the State of Manipur, is sure to invite a big slap right in the beginning.

Section 14 of the Bill said that the Provisions of this Act shall not apply to the permanent residents of the State of Manipur. The Clause which doesn’t define ‘Permanent Resident’ is a misleading and ambiguous one. It will become extremely difficult to identify all those who came after 18 November 1950 and chuck them off from the electoral list. Lastly, the major contention with the bill is that there is no clause mentioning about the Banning of Land Holding Rights by ‘Outsiders.’

With the Arrival of Indian Railways, Trans-Asian Highway, Major national projects under Act East Policy and Centrally sponsored schemes, ILP is a must- a socio economic political necessity. The aspirations of the people in total can be realized and full protection can be meted out by incorporating the ST demand with the ILP demand. Today, one dies for ILP; many will die for ST status because ILP is never complete without ST status. With the death of a student called Sapam Robinhood, the public out-roar has become more intense and the fear of other states emulating such protests has also increased. Excesses of state actors particularly the State Police have become quite rampant recently. Lessons have not been learnt when one youth was shot death for not stopping his vehicle at the frisking point. In terms of tackling such protests, I envisaged a civil war if some protests same as that of Delhi gang rape happens in Manipur. Their training should incorporate controlling of angry mob instead just teaching them to shoot suspects.

The 5 days house confinement of outsiders by civil organizations will take an ugly turn if this sensitive issue is not handled in time. We cannot say that a bloody clash between the native and the outsiders will never happen. The death of the Youth and his idolization as ‘Yelhoumi Kanbagi Lamjing Meira’( Torch bearer for the protection of Indigenous people) shows where this issue is moving into. His death can be understood in the way the state has failed to understand peace protest and blood shedding is required in each issue. All these involvement of the students will be termed as the increased political consciousness of the youth or youth being used as instruments to receive political ends, I do not wish to comment. But one thing is sure, this issue could have been easily solved if the legislature ponder upon the aspirations of the people and work towards achieving them. The non-existent intervention from the judiciary is also questionable. It’s high time for everyone concerned to pull up their shocks and nip the issue at the bud by understanding the aspiration of the indigenous people before the cry of mothers become our lullaby and the sounds of teargas and mock bombs become the firecrackers of the night. Everybody loves fire crackers but nobody wants them to be a part of everyday life. It will be already late if we sit and wait for the molehill to turn into a mountain.

The writer is a Sociology Honours graduate from Hindu College, Delhi University and can be reached at rockywahengbam@gmail.com

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/ilp-totally-an-adult-issue/

Public-police clashes continue for third consecutive day

IMPHAL, July 11: For the third consecutive day, ILPS supporters came out defying curfew orders and imposed road blocks, conducted mock funeral of the Chief Minister, burn his effigies, staged

ILPS Demand Intensified: Public-police clashes continue for third consecutive day

IMPHAL, July 11: For the third consecutive day, ILPS supporters came out defying curfew orders and imposed road blocks, conducted mock funeral of the Chief Minister, burn his effigies, staged sit in protest demanding withdrawal of the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill 2015.

The protestors were also demanding a Bill to safeguard the indigenous people of the State.

Although curfew was relaxed for five hours from 5am to 10am today, as soon as the curfew was re-imposed people came out to the streets and started demonstrating, resulting in several fierce police-agitators confrontations.

Meanwhile, the government has started deploying CRPF personnel including women personnel in the State capital to reinforce State security forces in controlling the raging agitation.

At Hiyangthang, meira paibis of Hiyangthan and Langthabal organised a joint meira rally.

In Kakwa a strong police-agitators confrontation occurred.

Police fired tear gas shells, rubber bullets, used catapults as the agitators also pelted stones and used catapults. There were several reports of minor injuries sustained during the confrontation.

The agitators also used foul language against the media persons covering the incident.

Police-agitators confrontations were also witnessed in Sagolband, Keisamthong, Kwakeithel, Pisum, Khagempali, Heirangoi Thong, MU gate, Kakwa, Kongman, Kongba, Basikhong, Heingang, Kontha Ahalup.

The Ragailong Pei (Thoubei), Ragailong women society, Ragailong youth club, JCILP Student Wing and MSF Imphal West also jointly conducted a torch rally at Ragailong.

The people also paid their respect to Sapam Robinhood who lost his life on July 8.

The Chingmi Tami Meira Paibi Lup also staged a sit in protest in the Langol area. Similar protests were staged at Lairkyengbam Leikai, Keisamthong, Khabam Leikai, Kontha Ahalup, Heirangoi Thong, Singjamei Mayeng Leiaki, Kongba, Singjamei Khatri Leiaki.

Rallies were also taken out at Sekmai, Mayang Langjing, Langthabal Phura Makhong, Pangei Bazar, Chanchipur, Ragailong, Kakwa and Singjamei.

Security forces also arrived to control the rallies and mob protests.

There were reports of police personnel suffering minor injuries in the tussle with the agitators.

In Khurai, agitators conducted a mock funeral of State Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh.

Sit in protest against the death of a student in police firing on June 8 were also staged at several places along the National Highway 2 starting from Khabam Lamkhai to Sekmai today.

Women folk started gathering on the highway since 11 am and staged sit in protest at Khabam Lamaki, Koirengei, Khonghampat, Pheidinga, Khurkhul, Sekmai and Maharabi.

At Khabam Lamkhai, around 700 women from various villages including Khabam, Heingang, Achanbingei, Matai, Luwangsangbam under the apunba Meira Paibee of Heingang Kendra gathered and staged the sit in protest.

The womenfolk later burned down effigies of the Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh and his deputy Gaikhangam.

Slogans were also shouted demanding implementation of the ILPS, to safeguard the indigenous people of the State.

Condemning the incident of the death of Robinhood, the womenfolk also demanded punishment of the personnel involved.

Meira paibis of Koirengei also demonstrated at Koirengei Bazar, Khonghampat Mantri Leikai and Khonghampat Awang Leikai.

At Loitang, Pheidinga, Khurkhul, Sekmai, Maharabi sit-in-protest and protest rally were held blocking traffic movement along the NH-2.

The women protestors displayed placard reading `implement ILP in state` `safe indigenous people of Manipur` `we condemn student killed` and `Punish personnel who killed student`.

Meanwhile, sounds of smoke bombs and tear gas shells continue to echo even till late evening.

It may be mentioned that the JAC and JCILPS has underlined to continue to demonstrate agitations and protest rallies until the ILPS or similar Act is not implemented in to the state safeguarding the indigenous community of the state. The JAC along with family members of the deceased Sapam Robinhood denied accepting the soul-less body until the demand of the public is not met.

Manipur ILPS demand intensified, JCILPS Jiribam branch burns effigies of CM O Ibobi

Exclusive report from Jiribam by Momon Thoudam. Jiribam 10-July-2015: Joint committee on Inner Line Permit System( JCILPS) Jiribam branch Volunteers of Students’ Wing, JCILPS women organization and civil organizations in the Jiribam

Manipur ILP Demand – Jiribam: A police personal stands near the protest site

Exclusive report from Jiribam by Momon Thoudam.

Jiribam 10-July-2015: Joint committee on Inner Line Permit System( JCILPS) Jiribam branch Volunteers of Students’ Wing, JCILPS women organization and civil organizations in the Jiribam sub division responded to the call of JCILPS and intensified their demand to introduce ILPS in Manipur.

Effigies of Manipur Chief Minister, Deputy CM and Education Minister were burnt today at different places in Jiribam. Protesters also burnt effigies in front of the residence of Revenue & Law Minister and Jiribam MLA Th. Debendra. Normal life has been affected in Jiribam due to the continued agitation.

Click on the below photos to view the photo gallery:

Curfew fails to deter agitators; rallies, sit-in held at several places

IMPHAL, July 10: For the second consecutive day, protestors continue to take out rallies, block roads and confront the police in different parts of the State capital amid a curfew.

Manipur ILP Demand intensified: An injured protester carried away by Police

IMPHAL, July 10: For the second consecutive day, protestors continue to take out rallies, block roads and confront the police in different parts of the State capital amid a curfew.

The agitation demanding the withdrawal of the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill and implementation of a proper Bill which could safeguard the indigenous people of the State took a serious turn in the aftermath of the death of a student of the Ananda Singh Higher Secondary School on June 8 in police action during a protest rally.

Curfew has been imposed in the twin districts of Imphal since July 9, as protestors come out to the streets and imposed road blocks.

For the second day today, protestors defied the curfew and came out to the streets.

A huge number of Khetrigao constituency residents tried to storm MLA Amin Shah`™s residence around 1pm but were stopped by the police.

The protestors wanted to talk to the MLA on the present ILPS issue.

It is also learnt that Nambol residents had also tried to storm the residence of local MLA Nameirakpam Loken but the police thwarted the attempt around 3pm.

However, protestors continue to burn tyres, place tree branches, rock boulders and iron posts on the roads. Sit in protests were also staged in different parts of the State including at Kongba crossing, Khongman Mangjil, Singjamei Bheigyabati leikai.

Heavy clashes between the agitators and the security forces were also witnessed in several localities.

Police fired tear gas shells, rubber bullets, threw mock bombs, lathi-charged trying to disperse the protestors, while, the protestors replied by shooting catapults and pelting stones.

Many were injured on the protestors`™ side, while some police personnel were also injured.

At Lairikyengbam Leikai, the JAC formed in connection to the death of Sapam Robinhood organised a mass rally.

The rally started from Lairikyengbam Leikai and continued till Lamlongthong where it was met by a strong police team.

Soon a tussle ensued between the protestors and the police. In the tussle, the angered protestors threw the police barricade into the Imphal River. They also shouted demands to safeguard the indigenous people, save Manipur, save North East people.

The protestors also shouted at the police that the demand was also for the police and their families and `Take our lives, but don`™t destroy our Home, please, we are eager to sacrifice for the ILPS.`

After the brief tussle, they returned back and took the rally upto Popular High School and return back.

During their return they tried to march towards the State Assembly building where the last day of the 11th session of the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly was underway.

They were again stopped by security personnel along the Dingku Road.

During the process, an IRB personnel fired from his service rifle resulting in the protestors turning violent and throwing stones at the police personnel who also fired back rubber bullets, tear gas shells and lobbed mock bombs.

Several protestors were injured and some were arrested by the police.

Similar agitations were also witnessed at Wangkhei, Singjamei, Kakwa, Canchipur, MU Gate, Khagempalli, Keishamthong, Thangmeibad, Sagolband, Urikok, Naoremthong, Prompat DC road, Langthabal etc.

Road blocks were also reported from outside the Imphal area at Khonghampat Mayai Leikai, Tendongyan, Sekmai, Maharabi etc along the National highway no 2.

Police had also reportedly fired bullets at Khonghampat Mayai Leikai to disperse the protestors, informed sources. Effigies of the MLAs were also burnt at Sanakeithel Lamphel.

Meira rallies were also taken out during the night. Effigies of all 57 MLAs were hanged at Singjamei.

Photos of curfew imposed in Imphal after JCILPS student agitator killed in police action

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/photos-of-curfew-imposed-in-imphal-after-jcilps-student-agitator-killed-in-police-action/

MSAD PR on JCILPS student protestor killed (Manipuri language)

Office of the Manipur Students’ Association Delhi New Delhi Press release Ref. No.: MSADPR20150708 Date: 8/7/2015 Yelhoumee kanbagi khongjangda sarkargi force na hatpada thawaina pontha pikhrba athouba maheiroi Sapam

Office of the Manipur Students’ Association Delhi

New Delhi

Press release

Ref. No.: MSADPR20150708 Date: 8/7/2015

Yelhoumee kanbagi khongjangda sarkargi force na hatpada thawaina pontha pikhrba athouba maheiroi Sapam Robinhood, apokpa Sapam Romesh amadi apokpi Sapam Babita (Abi) leipham Khurai Lairikyengbam Makha Leikai amadi Ananda Singh Higher Secondary School Chekon da class XI science da tamliba maheiroi asina changsillakliba khongjangda thawaina pontha pikhibada Manipur Studnets’ Association Delhi (MSAD) na thamoi sokna nungaitaba fongdokchari amadi leihouriba eemung manunggi meeoisinggi awabada saruk yajari loinana ngasigi thoudok asida asok-apan nagkhraba maheiroisinggidamaktasu MSAD na nungaitaba fongdokchari.

Matam kuinadagi changsillakliba khongjang asibu namthanabagidamak paliba sarkar asina maheiroisingbu sa-ngada chatthaagadaba lichat chatthaba haibasi khunnai asibu oosittabani. Tunggi yumbirel oirakkadaba maheiroisingna lairik tamgabada thadoktuna leibakki khallaga chatpa rally da police force sijinnaduna khunai asibu muthatlage khanbagi mawongda tourakliba asi taraina louba matam nattre.

Ngasigi sarkar asi yelhoumeegi khandaba makhoigi furitkhaoda changnaba peisa kharagi khanba leibakki khandaba maikei khangdana chelliba turelgi ichelgumbani.

Manipur Legislative Assembly asi peisa khakta khannanaba leibra ntraga leibakki warep loupham natabra? Leibakki oiba wa khannapham natrabadi masi leibagi wahanthok leiribra?

Sarkargi ludraba thouong asi tasengna maheiroi khunnaibu singnabani amadi asigumlaba thoudok asina henna thouna happaga eikhoi punna amatta oibagi liching makhada changsilliba khongjang asina mai paktrifaoba changsinminasi haina MSAD na meeyamda ningsingjari. Loinana hayen tang 9 July 2015 pung 3 p.m. da DU garden, north campus ta makha taba khongjang changsinnabagidamakta public meeting ama koujari.

CORE PRESS STATEMENT: Extreme abuse of power/failure of Home Department of Manipur to stem disgraceful slide in public affairs

PRESS STATEMENT 8th July 2015 The Centre for Organisation Research and Education expresses utter scorn for the extreme abuse of power and failure of the Home Department of Manipur to

PRESS STATEMENT

8th July 2015

The Centre for Organisation Research and Education expresses utter scorn for the extreme abuse of power and failure of the Home Department of Manipur to stem the disgraceful slide in the public affairs of Manipur. The reported fatal injury suffered by a young boy of 16 years, Sapam Robinhood Singh, S/o Romesh of Keishamthong Thangjam Leirak, presently residing at his mother’s home at Khurai Lairik Yengbam Leikai and studying in class XI (Science) at Ananda Singh Higher Secondary School, Nongmeibung was avoidable and preventable. He was reportedly shot with a tear gas shell on his left check at close range and was rushed to Public Hospital Hatta and was later referred to Raj Medicity, North AOC where he succumbed to the injuries inflicted by the Manipur Police. It has been reported that a large number of students numbering more than forty also sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at various hospitals around Imphal.

The Manipur Police have been trained in the use of tear gas projectiles and mob control, as stated by official information from the Manipur Police Training College (MPTC) at Pangei. But this report seems to say the very opposite. A peaceful rally is not a mob. Use of fire power by the police is under the domain of the district administration. Who gave the order to fire tear gas projectiles at the students? Excessive and disproportionate use of power is, unfortunately, the character of the Manipur Police.

We condemn the totally unjustified abrupt imposition of indefinite curfew in the Great Imphal area from 3:30 PM of 8th July 2015, seeking excuses in an imagined deterioration of law and order, as a clear demonstration of the total failure of the state administration. Peaceful demonstrations and rallies are the very foundations of the democratic will of the people and the fundamental rights freedom of expression and assembly protected by the Indian Constitution, and not to be confused with deterioration of law and order. It is evident that the government of Manipur is not just anti-people but openly in contempt of the democratic principles of India.

It is paradoxical that the government of India entered into an international human rights treaty on civil and political rights and entered into an obligation to uphold, promote and protect these rights, but it is left to the civil society, children, students and human rights defenders to perform these obligations!

As we grieve with the family of Sapam Robinhood and all the injured young students, we demand an immediate lifting of this draconian curfew imposed in Imphal and the immediate establishment of an independent and fair judicial inquiry into the incident in order to fix responsibility and liability in accordance to the law.

[Dr. Laifungbam Debabrata Roy]

President

Elders’ Council

Press release from CORE, Manipur. They can be reached at laifungbam@coremanipur.org

JCILPS student protestor killed in police action: indefinte curfew imposed in greater Imphal

Imphal, 8 July 2015 : Adding a new twist to the ongoing agitation for implementation of the Inner Line Permit System in Manipur, a student volunteer died after sustaining grievous

Photo credit: KC James

Imphal, 8 July 2015 : Adding a new twist to the ongoing agitation for implementation of the Inner Line Permit System in Manipur, a student volunteer died after sustaining grievous injury during police action in an attempt to contain the agitators who were coming towards the state assembly building with the aim of disrupting and boycotting the ongoing assembly session. The deceased has been identified as Sapam Robinhood Singh, 16, S/o Romesh of Keishamthong Thangjam Leirak, presently residing at his mother’s home at Khurai Lairik Yengbam Leikai and studying in class XI (Science) at Ananda Singh Higher Secondary School, Nongmeibung. He was shot with a tear gas shell on his left check at close range and was rushed to Public Hospital Hatta and was later referred to Raj Medicity, North AOC. The incident happened at Minuthong Hatta when the protestors entered into a clash with the state security personnel who were posted at the area . A large number of students from various educational institutions including Ibotonsana Higher Secondary School, Tamphasana Girls Higher Secondary School , Churachand Higher Secondary School and Modern Academy Higher Secondary School converged from various directions towards the state Assembly building at around 11.40 today morning. A large number of students numbering more than forty also sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at various hospitals around Imphal. Meanwhile, owing to the deteriorating law and order situation, curfew has been imposed in both Imphal West and Imphal East Districts in an effort to contain the situation and prevent further instances of violence. Meanwhile, at around 10 today morning, a large number of member volunteers of the Women’s Wing, Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System Manipur (JCILPS) stormed the residence of the state legislative speaker Kh Lokeshwar at Keishampat, Imphal West. The women agitators, when being informed of the unavailability of the speaker decided to wait for his return. In another similar incident, students of CC Higher Secondary School also prevented W.L. Hangshing, Principal Secretary (PHED) from traveling from his official residence at Sanjenthong. The committee has been taking up various forms of agitation in its longstanding demand for implementation of the ILP system which will ensure the protection and preservation of the cultural and traditional identity of the indigenous inhabitants of the state.

Source: Imphaltimes

Jiribam affect by JCILPS bandh as well

Jiribam,7 July 2015 : The 19 hour bandh called by the JCILPS jiribam branch, Conglomerate body of student organization, women organization and civil organization with demands to implement the Inner

Jiribam,7 July 2015 : The 19 hour bandh called by the JCILPS jiribam branch, Conglomerate body of student organization, women organization and civil organization with demands to implement the Inner Line Permit System in the State . Normal life was affected in Jiribam by the 19 hours bandh, All roads leading to Jiribam was closed while schools, offices and business establishments remained closed for the day..

Ema market Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Highway turning point .. Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Main market.. Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Main turning point,baupara Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Market , Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Kali mandir road, Photo credit ; Momon Thoudam

Kalinagar Photo credit: Momon Thoudam

Moreh market jiri Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Near police station,babupara Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Railway crossing Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Sumo counter(jiri to imphal) Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Zero point(congress building babupara) Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/jiribam-affect-by-jcilps-bandh-as-well/

My 46 questions to Shri L. Ibomcha Singh, Hon’ble MLA, in connection with Inner Line Permit System in Manipur

Dr. Khomdon Lisam Two Police officers came to my residence at Palace Compound on 26 March, 2015 at about 1.30 p.m. The senior Police Officer said to me “ L.

Dr. Khomdon Lisam

Two Police officers came to my residence at Palace Compound on 26 March, 2015 at about 1.30 p.m. The senior Police Officer said to me “ L. Ibomcha , MLA has filed an FIR no. 88(03) 2015 Imphal Police Station under section no. 1244 a /186/189/505(2) IPC. Pabung . Did you publish an article in the newspaper in which you defamed Shri L. Ibomcha singh , Hon’ble MLA of Keisamthong Constituency”. I said “why should I defame him. I am only bringing the facts before the people.” Then he showed me the para of the article in which Shri Ibomcha singh got offended . The para is taken out from my article entitled “How can we salvage the Manipur State Legislative Assembly ? “. The para reads like this “the mistake our Honourable Chief Minister Shri O. Ibobi Singh has committed is his too much reliance and confidence in Shri L. Ibomcha Singh, Opposition MLA , who happened to be the Law Secretary at one time. He is using his legal knowledge and expertise in destroying Manipur.

Honourable Chief Minister might have genuinely wanted to fulfil the demands of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS). But Shri L. Ibomcha Singh might have warned or threatened the Chief Minister about the possibility of declaring such an act as unconstitutional and the possibility of the Act being struck down by the Supreme Court or the High Court. They could not see any other option.” I told the Police Officer that we respect Shri L. Ibomcha Singh . He is not only MLA but he was also at one time the secretary /Law under the Government of Manipur. He is a legal expert . He was a member of the drafting Committee. He enjoy the faith and confidence of the Hon’bleChief Minister , Manipur. I myself and the members of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) were expecting that he will be able to bring out an effective law for protecting the indigenous people (natives ) of Manipur. On the contrary , he was instrumental in bringing out the present Bill entitled “ The Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill”. His actions has disappointed the people. The JCILPS announced 18 hours band and demanded to withdraw the Bill. The young people and women are sitting in Dharna , protested everywhere. The State Government also initiated a series of repressive measures . Any time, violence may erupt anywhere. This present Bill is meant to protect the migrant workers and not to protect the indigenous people (natives ) of Manipur. If you want to arrest me for writing this article , you can arrest me now. The Police Officer replied “ No Pabung. We came in civilian vehicle to evade public notice, we do not come in police vehicle . We want to know only the facts. Then I briefed them about why the JCILPS is doing this mass movement on Inner Line Permit System, what is Inner Line Permit System etc. The Police Officer said “ Pabung , you may arrange for an Anticipatory Bail. “ I said I am not interested to go for an Anticipatory Bail. You can come and arrest me any time. I am ready to go to jail. I will invigorate the JCILPS movement by going to jail. The Police Officers said that they will discuss the matter with their senior officers and inform me again. They left the place.

Nowadays it is very dangerous to be right when the government is wrong. Who will Protect us from Our Government? Anyway, I want to ask the following 46 questions to Shri L. Ibomcha singh , Hon’ble MLA for his clarification to the people .

Are you a legal expert ? For me, you are second to none.

Did you work as the Secretary /Law at one time under the state government.

Are you enjoying the faith and confidence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister as a legal expert ?

Were you a member the Drafting Committee of the present Bill ?

Were you a member the All Political Parties Committee on the present Bill representing NCP?

Did you agree/accept to the Title of the present Bill “The Manipur Regulation of Visitors , Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill” ? This Title is dull, not appealing, misleading and does not reflect the main objectives of the Bill The suggested title of the Bill was ” Protection of the Indigenous people of Manipur Bill-2015 “.This title is appealing, attractive, reflects the main objectives of the Bill and will be able to attract the attention of the Government of India. The second option may be the “Manipur Inner Line Permit Bill -2015″ . The third option may be Manipur Migrants Regulation Bill- 2015. The present title should be dropped without further consideration. If you do not agree, who pressurised you to agree ?

Did you agree/accept to the objects and reasons of the present Bill ? The stated objects and reasons of the present Bill is “ to maintain tranquillity and public order in the interest of general public and visitors by registering the visitors , tenants and migrant workers “. The JCILP is very clear about the objectives of the Bill. The main objectives of the Bill may be (1) to protect the identity, culture, lands, language, script and business of the indigenous people and permanent residents of Manipur (2) to regulate the entry , employment and settlement of migrants to Manipur. If you do not agree, who pressurised you to agree?

Did you agree/accept to the definitions of “Permanent Resident” of the present Bill ? The definition given in the Bill is : “Permanent Residents“ means “a person who is ordinarily a resident of state of Manipur”. This is really very dangerous. I feel that this definition will give a blanket right to every migrant worker to buy land and settle in Manipur. Is it not against the general interest of the indigenous /native people of Manipur . Once His Excellency, the Governor of Manipur gives assent to this bill, it will be very difficult to amend the Bill. Once this right is given with the assent of the Governor, any amendment will amount to forfeiture of this right with complicated legal consequences. Why did not you consider this aspect as a legal expert. You can say that Permanent Resident means a person born or settled in Manipur prior to 18 November, 1950 (day on which the permit system was abolished by Chief Commissioner Himmat Singh )

Did you agree/accept to omission of protection of land . At present any outside migrant worker can purchase land in the valley areas of Manipur . Did you agree to the omission of protection of land for the indigenous/native people of Manipur. There is no provision on ban of purchase of land by migrant workers. The legal experts have recommended for insertion of this clause on ban of purchase of land by migrant workers but you have ignored the recommendation of legal experts and you are instrumental for this omission which is against the general interest of the indigenous/native people of Manipur.

Did you influence or agree /accept the Bill without Punishment Clauses ? So far my information goes, you have also pointed out that under Article 35 (a)(ii) of Indian Constitution, the State can not pass a law with punishment clauses . Is it correct ? Karnataka State Assembly had passed an Act namely the Karnataka scheduled castes and scheduled tribes (Prohibition of transfer of certain lands) act, 1978 wherein a conviction and a punishment with imprisonment which may extend to six months or with fine which may extend to two thousand rupees or with both was prescribed. If Karnataka can do it , why not Manipur State Legislative Assembly do it. That means , you are misguiding the Hon’ble Chief Minister.

Are you aware : the legal experts have pointed out that without punishment clauses like detention , the law will not be effective . It will be like paper tiger “ ? If so why did you fail to provide Punishment clauses in the Bill. ? People may interpret your expertise as a shallow knowledge of law.

Are you aware of the 7th Schedule List 2 (State List Entry 64 –Offences against Laws of the Indian Constitution under which the state is empowered to enact laws connected with offences ? If so, why not you include the punishment clauses in the Bill ?

Are you aware that the Permit system introduced by the Manipur Durbar in 1901 was abolished by Mr. Himmat Singh, the then Chief Commissioner of Manipur on 18 November, 1950 without the approval of the Government of India, allowing free entry, unchecked influx of migrant workers from other states?

Are you aware that many political leaders are using the migrant workers as their vote banks- registering their names in the electoral rolls ? If so, why not you include a clause for deletion of names of migrant workers who entered Manipur after 18 November , 1950 (day on which the permit system was abolished by Himmat Singh) from the electoral rolls in all affected constituencies of Manipur.

Are you aware that the Manipur Durbar devised a very effective system of controlling the entry of Non-Manipuris called the Permit or Passport system in 1901when the population of Manipur was only 284,465( 1901 Census) ?

Are you aware that This Permit system in Manipur was brought under the Foreigners Department on 1 November, 1931 ?

Are you aware that the Government of India has approved retention of the said Permit System in Manipur vide Mr. G.E.D Walker, Advisor to the Governor of Assam letter no. 120/47/C- 26-27 dated 17th January, 1948.?

Are you aware that the massive influx of outside migrants is likely to produce a demographic imbalance in Manipur in the near future ? According to 2001 Census, the population of outside migrants in Manipur was 707,488 as against the Meitei population of 751822, tribal population of 670,782.

Are you aware that there is a regulation called the “Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation -1873” passed by Lord Northbrook on 27 August, 1873 ?

Are you aware that the “Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation -1873 is now in force in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Mizoram ?

Are you aware that the Mizoram State has adopted Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation -1873 on 8 September, 2006 ?

Do you think adoption of Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation -1873 is only for tribal areas? If so, why did the British extended this regulation to Kamrup, Sibsagar, Lakhimpur of Assam which are not the tribal areas ?

Do you think adoption of Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation -1873 by Manipur is unconstitutional ? If so, why and how these regulation is in force in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Mizoram ?

Are you aware that the influx of outsiders has deprived the indigenous Manipuri population of their ancestral land , food, employment , manual work , education etc.?

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has posed a threat to the Manipuri identity and culture of the indigenous Manipuris.

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has posed a threat to Manipuri language , scripts and local dialects due to ever increasing influence of Hindi as the link language and “Bazar Bhasa “ in trade and commerce.

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has posed a threat to survival of local labourers due to uncontrolled and unchecked influx of cheap labourers from other states and from Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar .

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has posed a threat to reservation quota for scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes as many of them are also eligible under the same reservation quota.

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has deprived the job opportunities of indigenous population

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has deprived of higher educational and Technical educational opportunities like MBBS, BDS, BSc ( Nursing) , BE etc, of indigenous population as may of the outsiders are also eligible to apply for the same .

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has deprived of competitive posts like MCS, MPS and other high ranking posts of indigenous population as the outsiders are also eligible to apply .We have seen that some of the outsiders holding very high posts in the Government and this is happening at the cost of our local talents.

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has posed a threat to Law and Order , Public Security and Safety as many of them indulged in black market , crimes

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has posed a threat to survival of small ethnic tribal groups like Aimol ( 2643/2001), Chothe( 2675/2001), Koirao (1200/2001) , Koireng(1056/2001), , Monsang- 1634/2001) , Moyon ( 1,710/2001), Ralte( 110/2001), Salhte 311/2001)

Are you aware that influx of outsiders has increased the spread of HIV /AIDS as may of the migrant workers are also indulging in high risk behaviour in sex and drug use .

Are you aware that some of migrant workers are very keen to contest election and become MLA and Minister. Earlier , we had one Nepali MLA also.

Are you aware that on 2^nd March, 2006, I . Hemochandra , Hon’ble MLA had initiated a discussion on Inner Line Permit in the Manipur State Assembly?

Are you aware that on 26 August, 2011, Shri N. Mangi Singh Hon’ble MLA put up a Calling Attention Motion on Inner Line Permit System in Manipur in the Manipur Legislative Assembly and the matter is pending with the State Cabinet since 27 August, 2011.

Are you aware that on 27 August, 2011, the State Cabinet under leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister, Manipur had discussed about the need to introduce the Inner Line Permit system in Manipur .

Are you aware that the Manipur State Cabinet under leadership of our Hon’ble Chief Minister passed a resolution on 12 July, 2012 and urge the Government of India (GOI) to extend the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873 (ILP) to Manipur.

Are you aware that the Manipur Legislative Assembly passed a resolution on 13 July, 2012 to extend and adopt the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation , 1873 (ILP). The resolution was submitted to GOI on 3rd August, 2012.

Are you aware that Dr. J. Suresh Babu, Principal Secretary (Home) in his letter no. 1/1(12) /2011-Home dated 3rd August , 2012 has sent a request to the Home Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, GOI to extend the provisions of Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation -1873 to the state of Manipur.

Are you aware that the population of indigenous/native American Indians has been reduced from 100% at the time of arrival of Columbus to 0.1 % to 0.2% in 2006 (the U.S. Census Bureau-2006)

Are you aware that the population of indigenous/native Australians has been reduced from 100% at the time of arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Botany Bay in January 1788to establish a penal colony to just 2.4% of Australia’s total in 2001 (Quadrant. https://www.quadrant.org.au/magazine/issue/2008/451/who-are-indigenous-australians.)

Are you aware that the population of indigenous/native people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has been reduced from 100% at the time of establishment of a Penal Colony in 1789 to hardly 1000 in 2011 ( “Andaman & Nicobar Islands at a glance”. Andamandt.nic.in. http://andamandt.nic.in/profile.htm.)

Are you aware that the indigenous peoples, who accounted for 95% of the population of Tripura in 1931 census, have been reduced to a mere 31% in the 1991 census mainly due to influx of refugees from East Pakistan. Even the names of different villages, hamlets, rivers, tributaries, markets, area, hills, hillocks, towns etc had been changed to suit the tongue of Bengali refugees, who had since became majority population. The unchecked and uncontrolled population invasion from East Pakistan has caused serious , social, political, economic and demographic impact which has destroyed the identity , culture and traditions and language of the indigenous people of Tripura .

Are you serious and committed to protect the identity, culture, customs, land, language , religion, mineral resources, business, employment opportunities of the indigenous people /natives of Manipur.

If so, why are you afraid to initiate an appropriate law to fulfil the wishes of the people.

What we are doing is for the future generation of Manipur- for our children, for our motherland, for our honour. Rambo said “ Live for nothing or die for something. Denis Fonvizin once said ” A fool is very dangerous when in power.” Once Charles de Gaulle said “I have come to the conclusion that politics is too serious a matter to be left to the politicians.” These quotations become very relevant in the context of Manipur these days.
I am not conveying any disrespect to you. But the people have the right to know the facts. I have the right to freedom of speech and freedom of expression as guaranteed under the Indian Constitution. My going to jail for this cause is immaterial to me.

If you want to debate this matter in the DDK/AIR/ISTV/Impact TV for wider coverage, I am ready to participate.

The End