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Govt apathy writ large on PWD, Ukhrul

By R Lester Makang UKHRUL, January 29: While the denizens of Ukhrul district find it convenient to direct their ire toward the Public Works Department (PWD), Ukhrul Division for the

By R Lester Makang

UKHRUL, January 29: While the denizens of Ukhrul district find it convenient to direct their ire toward the Public Works Department (PWD), Ukhrul Division for the poor condition of circular roads and all approach roads to the town`™s main road which is also in a bad shape, the officials of the department have a different story to tell.

Soon after the wet, swampy season, Ukhrulites are once again greeted with the typical cloud of dust with the onset of dry wintry season as most part of the so-called black-topped surface of the town`™s roads have worn out sooner than expected, or for that matter, within a year of repairing or re-laying the same.

The task of maintaining the town`™s main road which has developed innumerable cracks and pot holes within a year of re-laying has been undertaken by the Border Roads Organization (BRO) along with that of national and state highways including Ukhrul-Imphal, Ukhrul-Jessami and Ukhrul-Kamjong roads since some years back, according to officials of PWD, Ukhrul.

PWD, Ukhrul division still retains the task of maintaining the twin Circular roads at the East and West of the district headquarters and a slew of approach roads within the town areas as well as in the interiors like Awang Kasom, Chingai, Ngaingu, Somdal, Tusom, Huimi and Kachai including the Imphal-Ukhrul old road via Lamlang Gate in western Ukhrul, disclosed the officials adding that the condition of all these roads has been deteriorating for the last many years rendering them almost unmotorable at various points.

`But what else could we do since the State government has not sanctioned any fund for repairing these roads for the past 3/4 years,` lamented the officials.

Citing financial crunch, the government is not releasing any fund for consecutive 3/4 years, they said before adding that at least Rs 1 crore would be required to repair some of the important roads under its jurisdiction.

Worst still, there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel as the department staff said that there has been no response whatsoever even after the department apprise the three local MLAs of the district about the matter.

`We are rendered idle and made to attend office here merely for namesake without having any task to do for want of fund and we do not see any positive sign in near future either,` they added.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/govt-apathy-writ-large-on-pwd-ukhrul/

JAC formed against reported Kadangband killing, says one of the victims is a civilian

Threatens 24 hour general strike, demands magisterial enquiry IMPHAL/ KANGPOKPI, January 29 (With inputs from our Correspondent): A Joint Action Committee formed in connection with the alleged killing of Khupneilal

Threatens 24 hour general strike, demands magisterial enquiry

IMPHAL/ KANGPOKPI, January 29 (With inputs from our Correspondent): A Joint Action Committee formed in connection with the alleged killing of Khupneilal Neihsial and Robert Hesei has warned of a 24-hour statewide strike from the midnight of January 31 and at the same time demanded a magisterial enquiry into the alleged encounter.

Meanwhile, Kangchup Chingkhong Village Authority has clarified that Khupneilal Neihsial son of (L) Lallam Neihsial one of the victims is a bonafide citizen and secretary of Kangchup Village Authority and not related to any underground organisation.

It is worth mentioning that yesterday at about 7:30pm, the two were killed reportedly in an alleged gunfight between 8 AR and suspected KNF cadres at Kadangband some few meters away from Kadangband Bridge under Lamshang police station.

Three others identified as Helen Kuki (30) son of Chongsat of Saparmaina, Satmang Kuki (25) son of Thanglun of Keithelmanbi BM Road and Thangkholen Kuki (25) son of Thangjamang of Leimakhong were also injured in the encounter and are presently taking medical treatment at Regional Institute of Medical Science (RIMS).

Khupneilal`™s family informed that he left home to attend a meeting at Nakhojang village to settle a family dispute there.

Taking serious note of the nature of the incident, a public meeting was held today at Kangchup area attended by the Kuki Inpi Kangchup, Kangchup Area Human Rights Association, Kangchup Area Tribal Youth Organisation and other local bodies and formed a Joint Action Committee against the killing.

The demand was later submitted to the Chief Minister of Manipur in written form.

Speaking to the media persons at RIMS morgue JAC convenor Thangminlen Haokip said that if the government fails to constitute a magisterial enquiry into the alleged killing of a civilian Khupneilal Neihsial and a KNF cadre Robert Hesei within January 31, the JAC will be compelled to impose 24 hour statewide general strike and at the same time the death bodies will not be claimed.

Claiming otherwise to the reported encounter, Thangminlen said the security personnel shot at the team including the two from a very short range after stopping them without any warning or provocation.

He said at least the security personnel should frisked them at the first place to know their identity and added that shooting at SoO groups without verification is condemnable.

The JAC demanded the magisterial enquiry as it is the only way to know the truth said Thangminlen.

So the concern authority should look into the matter for the sake of delivery of justice in the interest of the general public.

Earlier in the day, a brief commotion ensued at RIMS mortuary over the issue of post mortem examination of the bodies.

It is learnt that with families of the both the deceased decling to claim the bodies, the police decided to proceed with the post mortem examination as unclaimed bodies. However, the bereaved family opposed leading to the brief commotion.

Later the post mortem examination was cancelled.

Meanwhile all business establishments along the NH-2 between Kangpokpi and Motbung remained closed for the entire day.

Modi`s Look West Policy

Is the world power alignment on the cusp of another tectonic shift? Does the recent reception accorded to the American President, Barak Obama, by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, any indication

Is the world power alignment on the cusp of another tectonic shift? Does the recent reception accorded to the American President, Barak Obama, by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, any indication of a new world order in the offing? The enthusiasm that lit the face of the Indian Prime Minister is obvious, and he almost seemed too eager to fraternise with the US President, that at some point the meeting between the two leaders of the two most powerful democracies in the world somewhat lost the official, no nonsense business atmosphere. As American newspapers, notably Wall Street Journal, noted with the air of an amused spectators, Modi held on to Obama`™s hand after their first handshake for an extended period, making it awkward for Obama. Yet again as they were standing together, Modi again grabbed Obama`™s hand casually and dripped it for an extended period, and the commentator, as somebody who claims to have plenty of close friends in India, explained to his American readers in an empathetic tone, this is how Indians expressed their warmth. Was it instant chemistry? Did Obama reciprocate in equal zest, or was he just playing along to please his host? All this will become clear soon.
The two leaders also are supposed to have made breakthroughs in the Indo-American relationship. Though the substantive components of the talks between the two are still not clear, what has indeed been publicly claimed is a ground breaking peaceful nuclear deal. Critics are however quick to point out this was a deal the previous Congress led government under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh initiated, and while in the Opposition, the BJP had vehemently opposed this as a sell out. But this is what Parliamentary politics is about, and the Opposition is supposed to oppose any policy initiative by the Ruling party. This is supposed to be good for democracy but nonetheless, it does get a little too cynical at times though. But let us be patient and not judge the book by the cover yet. Maybe there is something good about to happen for India and the world.

One thing is certain, India it seems is ready to abandon the Nehruvian policy of non-alignment with any of the power blocs of the world. Otherwise, starting from the end of the World War II, when the Cold War began to have its chilling grip on the world, America was desperately wooing India as its natural partner. This was a time when the Communists under the leadership of the USSR were making great inroads into Asia, having already taken China after Mao`™s Red Army began delivering crushing defeat after defeat on Chiang Kai-shek`™s pro-West regime. The Americans first under President Truman and then more desperately under President Eisenhower began looking to India to be its anchor in its battle for Asia. When Nehru consistently refused to be America`™s proxy, though he was not for the Communist, America began tilting towards Pakistan. It will be recalled, this new American policy orientation was solidified under President Nixon and his secretary of state, Kissinger in the 1970s. Is this equation about to change? Maybe, but it is unlikely this will be to the extent Modi desires. It is difficult to imagine America suddenly abandoning Pakistan which has virtually been its unsinkable aircraft carrier in its War of Terror. Would Modi be ready to compromise on his government`™s rather bellicose stand on the Pakistan and Kashmir issue? Unlikely, but what is more than likely is America will ask for such a compromise so it can have the both Pakistan and India as its allies, and history since the Cold War has been evidence to this. Even when Nehru caved in his resistance to ally with any power bloc and was pathetically willing to abandon the non-alignment policy after India`™s humiliating defeat by China in 1962, and asked for American help, America threw in this same spanner, breaking Nehru`™s heart. Again, though America now obviously wants to contain China, would it be willing to forsake its partnership with this economic powerhouse completely? These are difficult questions but as they say, let us hope for the best but prepare for the worst.

Leader Writer: Pradip Phanjoubam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/modis-look-west-policy/

Oinam civil body lifts 48 hours Tiddim bandh

IMPHAL, January 29: The Oinam Tangleihad Okshoi Protection Committee has lifted its 48 hours bandh on NH 150 after the Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh assured to withdraw its decision

IMPHAL, January 29: The Oinam Tangleihad Okshoi Protection Committee has lifted its 48 hours bandh on NH 150 after the Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh assured to withdraw its decision for allotting 188.75 acres of Oinam Tangleihad Okshoi grazing ground to the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department for plantation of fodder today.

Oinam Nagar Panchayat chairperson Oinam Budhi speaking on behalf of the protection committee said if the government doesn`™t take positive actions, the agitation will be continued with more intensity.

Oinam people launched agitations by blocking the NH-150 on January 28 and 29 in protest against the decision of the state government to hand over the Okshoi grazing ground to Veterinary and Animal Husbandry for fodder plantation.

The decision for the withdrawal of the agitation was taken after the Oinam A/C MLA Dr I Ibohalbi held talks with the Chief Minister and deputy Chief Minister on the night of January 28 along with representatives of the protection committee.

Many people from Oinam were injured in police action during the agitations yesterday.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister had assured to review the matter in the next cabinet meeting. Meanwhile, the committee thanked the Chief Minister for acting in consideration for the public grievance.

Today, Dr I Ibohanbi told the media that Okshoipat in Oinam is surrounded by Yangoi Maril on the Northern side, Meichakpi on its Southern side, while in its east lays Yangbi and in the west it`™s surrounded by Mayangpat. The portion of this lake was handed over to the locals for grazing their cattle from the Fishery department by the then Chief Commissioner in 1954. The ground was declared as belonging to the people of Oinam by the Director of Settlement on April 19, 1972 when two persons laid claims to the ground by encroaching upon it.

It got embroiled in another land dispute when 32 persons laid claims to the ground by entering it in their names in the patta record but the Meira Paibis filed a case in the High court in 1995. Later, DC Imphal West gave instructions to conduct an inquiry on who actually owned the ground. After the completion of the inquiry, DC Imphal West ordered that the land can`™t be allowed to be owned by the 32 people.

Dr I Ibohanbi met the Chief Minister twice: once in the morning along with the Deputy Chief Minister and again with the protection committee in the night. After a negotiation, the committee decided to withdraw the agitation in Oinam.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/oinam-civil-body-lifts-48-hours-tiddim-bandh/

Indefinite bandh against alleged AR highhandedness affects busy Imphal-Moreh highway traffic

IMPHAL, January 30: The indefinite bandh imposed by the Tengnoupal village authority along the Imphal-Moreh highway has seriously affected normal traffic flow along highway. The bandh commenced from midnight yesterday

Women folk raising placards while imposing bandh at Tengnoupal along the Imphal-Moreh highway

As a result of the bandh, the Indo-Myanmar border trade, which has a daily business transaction of over crores of rupee was also affected by the bandh. Bandh supporters also prohibited the Vehicles and personnel of the Assam Rifles during the bandh, informed a source.

At the same time, over hundreds of vehicles are reportedly stranded at Moreh border town.

Bandh supporters also blocked the highway at Tengnoupal bazaar by piling up burning tyres, tree branches etc.

Local womenfolk also staged a sit in protest in the middle of the highway displaying placards and banners which reads, `Tengnoupal is not battlefield`, `24 AR is not the friends of the hill people`, `Down with Assam Rifles` etc.

The womenfolk also chanted slogans saying `Go back 24 Assam Rifles`.

Meanwhile, Tengnoupal MLA DK Korungthang also arrived at the bandh epicentre to take stock of the situation.

Speaking to media persons, the MLA divulged that he will appraise the matter to the Chief Minister and Home minister.

Although no agreement could be arrived at between the bandh supporters and the MLA for suspending the bandh, some stranded vehicles coming Moreh side including AR vehicles were allowed to proceed following a request from the MLA, sources said.

Speaking to the media persons, one of the bandh supporters said that some of the villagers including a pregnant woman and a paralyzed BP patient who were going for health check-ups were detained and prohibited to proceed at around 5.30 pm yesterday by the 24 Assam Rifles at Sita Lamkhai Check point and made them to proceed on foot for a distance of more than 2 kilometers.

She further said that villagers of Tengnoupal and its surrounding villages are not allowed to proceed back to their village after 6 pm by the Assam Rifles which is a direct deprivation of the villagers fundamental rights, she added.

While appealing for the removal of the Assam Rifles and their check post at Sita Lamkhai, the Women Leader warned that the villagers of Tengnoupal will intensify our agitation until and unless the Assam Rifles were removed.

Meanwhile, receiving reports of detention of villagers by the AR posted at Tengnoupal, a team of the Kuki Students`™ Organisation, Chandel led by its president and accompanied by media persons visited Tengnoupal.

Speaking to media persons, president of the student body Doumang Haokip said that the act of detaining and prohibiting villagers of Tengnoupal Village including a pregnant woman and BP patient to proceed to their village by the 24 Assam Rifles is not only condemnable but is also a gross violation of fundamental rights.

While endorsing the ongoing agitation of the Villagers of Tengnoupal Village, KSO President also appealed all individuals and other civil organizations to co-operate and endorse the indefinite bandh which was called against the action of the Assam Rifles.

Meanwhile, All Tribal Women Organization Chandel District and Chingtam Nupi Apunba Lup, Pallel strongly condemned the act of Assam Rifles for depriving the rights of the villagers and also expressed to extend its support the ongoing agitation of the villagers, sources said.

RNBA observes conference at Tamenglong

IMPHAL, January 28: The decadal 4th Women Conference of Rongmei Naga Baptist Association (RNBA) was kicked off today at Longmai (Noney) common ground Tamenglong district under the theme `Excellent Woman in Christ`. The conference will be concluded on January 30. Atleast 15,000 delegates from 183 churches affiliated under RNBA of Manipur and Assam will take part in the conference.

Rev. Akam Kamei, vice prisident Rongmei Naga Baptist Association inaugurated the conference by cutting the ribbon of the conference hall at Longmai- III.

Later Rev Mansi Gangmei, Executive Secretar of Rongmei Naga Baptist Association hoisted the Rongmei Naga Baptist Association flag and declared the conference opened during inaugural service in the late night.

Marking the opening day the excellence mother award of Rongmei Naga Baptist Association was awarded to Ramdiatliu Pamei, 90 years old of Dailong Baptist Church wife of Late Pastor Ramridin Pamei. The award consist of cash award, souvenir and a memento. Moreover, Parade of choirs, seminar on various, traditional dress display further marked the conference.

The conference aimed to march forward towards perfection in Christ and also aims to attain prefect sprituals.

Rev. Akam Kamei, President Rongmei Naga Baptist Association released the souvenir. Akeina Gonmei, Develoment Scretary of Rongmei Baptist Association Nagaland; Rev L. Timothy Phaomei, Pastor, RNBACC, Imphal; Dempu Pheiga, programe Manager, World Vison India and Dr. G. Majachunglu Gracy, PG RIMS Imphal attended as the guest resource persons in the three days long conference.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/rnba-observes-conference-at-tamenglong/

ATSUM demands adherence to UGC norms in recruitment of assistant professors

IMPHAL, January 28: All Tribal Students Union, Manipur has demanded that MPSC must follow UGC norms while recruiting assistant professors for government colleges. Speaking to the media at a press

IMPHAL, January 28: All Tribal Students Union, Manipur has demanded that MPSC must follow UGC norms while recruiting assistant professors for government colleges.

Speaking to the media at a press meet in the ATSUM office at Nagaram, Vareiyo Shatsang, general secretary of the apex tribal students`™ body, said multi-disciplinary subjects must be recognised by MPSC as per UGC norms without any discrimination.

As per UGC norms, equal weightage should be given to publication of seminar papers, teaching experience etc, and the academic track record, he added, warning to launch agitations from February first week if the government doesn`™t comply to the norms laid down by UGC.

He said it was unfortunate that MPSC was sticking to a norm that`™s being followed in the recruitment of teachers under RMSA, SSA etc where 85 percent weightage is given to academic performance with the remaining 15 percent decided by how one performs in an interview, which is not justified while selecting teachers for the highest seat of learning.

Elaborating that all levels of studies beginning from matriculation to post graduation is not equally important, he said that`™s why more weightage should be given to the graduation and the post graduation level. The current norms of MPSC are ridiculous and irrational as it gives more weightage to performances at the matriculation and intermediation exams more than Ph. D degrees.

The National Eligibility Test (NET) conducted by UGC, CSIR or similar test recognised by the UGC like SLET/SET is a required qualification for the post of assistant professor in colleges and universities, he said, adding MPSC shouldn`t overlook the importance of NET/SLET/JRF during the recruitment.

As such NET/SLET/JRF should be given equal weightage to Ph. D degrees while considering all the criteria and publication of research works, seminar papers and teaching experience etc should be given more weightage than performance at the intermediate levels, he said.

He further said that Mphil/PhD degree holders from relevant multidisciplinary centres/subjects must also be considered as per UGC norms during the recruitment without any bias and discrimination. It is unfair on the part of MPSC to evaluate only the academic performance indicators and the performance in a Viva Voce for the recruitment of assistant professors, he added.

All PhD holders before or after 2009 must be treated equally but while also keeping this in mind that the marking system during the late 80`s, and the 90`s varies a lot. There has been a more liberal system of marking from 2005 onwards, Shatsang said.

Mirabai inaugurates three juvenile observation homes

THOUBAL, January 28: Social Welfare minister, AK Mirabai inaugurated three Observation Homes today at three different areas of Imphal, Thoubal and Bishnupur today. The homes were constructed under provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and protection of children) Act, 2000 for the year 2014-15 with recognition from the Ministry of Women and Child Development.

The homes inaugurated are located at Nambol Maibam Chingmang, Bishnupur District, Langthabal Lep Mayai Leikai, Imphal West District and Samaram of Thoubal District.

While, the home at Langthabal Lep Mayai Leikai, Imphal West District is for girls only, the other two are for boys and all three will be run under the Ministry of Women and Child Development`™s `Integrated Child protection Scheme.

The Samaram Observation Home constructed by the All Backward Classes and Economic Development Organisation has a total capacity of 25 inmates and was constructed.

Speaking after the inaugural of the homes, the minister said the more such home will be constructed at Tamenglong, Noney, Ukhrul and Imphal East.

Including the three homes, the Social Welfare department has already constructed 14 children homes, two shelter homes and an observation home since 2013 in the State, she said adding that all the homes were constructed with the concerned ministry providing 90 percent funding while the remaining 10 percent were provided by NGOs.

Stating that Thoubal district has the most number of NGOs, the minister further pointed out that the NGOs need to be alert and at the same time understanding of the needs of the inmates who are all juveniles.

Efficient counseling is needed she said adding that any wrong advices or counseling could have adverse effect on the young minds.

The NGOs and those involved in running the homes should also be in regular touch with other concerned government departments, she said.

Mirabai also said that the Social Welfare department has also taken up specific schemes for the disabled and the department is always available for the people.

It can be mentioned that the inauguration programmes were attended by MLA Landhoni, MLA S. Bira, Social Welfare director Rangitabali Waikhom and JJ Board members, CWC members and members of department.

Meanwhile, Thoubal DC, T. Ranjit, SP Radhashyam took part in the inauguration programme held at Samaram and spoke on JJ Act meticulously.

Oinam bandh turns violent, seven injured in police-protestors faceoff

IMPHAL, January 28: At least seven individuals including women were injured in a violent confrontation between agitators and police today at Oinam bazaar during the first day of the 48

IMPHAL, January 28: At least seven individuals including women were injured in a violent confrontation between agitators and police today at Oinam bazaar during the first day of the 48 hour bandh imposed along the Tiddim road in the area.

Meanwhile, police also reportedly arrested 15 protestors.

The bandh which commenced from 5 am this morning was imposed by the Oinam Tangleihada Okshoi Grazing Ground Protection Committee.

In response to the bandh, locals of the Oinam area came out in the streets and blocked the roads piling up burning tyres, log and stones, disrupting the normal traffic along the Tiddim road.

A team of Bishnupur police rushed to the area and attempted to disperse the crowd using tear gas, mock bombs. In retaliation, the agitators started using catapults and throwing stones. In the confrontation at least seven individuals were reportedly injured.

The bandh was reportedly imposed in opposition to a government decision to hand over 128 hector of grazing ground to the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry department.

The committee claimed that during the last 70 years the grazing ground has become an important part of the people living in and around the Oinam area. It may be mentioned that the committee had reportedly submitted memorandums on several occasions demanding the State to cancel the allotment.

Bakuwa villagers` wish for black-topped road still a far dream

By Shyam Waikhom IMPHAL, January 28: Villagers of a small village Bakuwa which lies some 17 km north of Noney in Tamenglong district continue to wait for a seasonal black

By Shyam Waikhom
IMPHAL, January 28: Villagers of a small village Bakuwa which lies some 17 km north of Noney in Tamenglong district continue to wait for a seasonal black topped road since some two decades back.

Bakuwa Village is today considered as the origin of the Inpui tribe, according to the villagers.

The village, they said has remained neglected by the government for long.

People have today got accustomed to the dust and mud found year long on their main lifeline which connects the village to Noney.

During a recent visit in December 2014, this IFP reporter found that the road starting from Noney is in a bad condition with not a single sign or patch of black-topping along the entire road stretch.

The road was filled with dust and is hard to believe that passenger vehicles are plying along the road which was expanded from a small footpath in 1995 by the Tamenglong MLA of the time Samuel Zendai.

However, unfortunately, the road has never been blacktopped, lamented Kh Arei Khulapka of Bakuwa village.

During the rainy season it is the worse, he said adding that the road get slippery and people had to walk for 17 km till Noney as vehicles are unable to stay on the road during the rains.

For any medical emergencies, patients have to be taken on stretchers till the Noney Health Centtre, he said.

However, the sufferings of the village and its people do not end here, he pointed out.

The bridge along the road is in a pitiable condition and many have been injured due to its condition, he reported.

The area had once been abandoned during an epidemic in 1918, however, many villages have once again been re-established in the past one or two decades, according to the locals.

They said Bakuwa Village was re-established in 1994 by the founder of Inpui Baptist Church Ipu Nameizendang.

Another villager, R Meiriba Khunbu had told this reporter that a team of the State government had recently conducted a road survey for the development of the 35 km long Imphal-Haflong road also known as KT road under Asian Development Bank funding.

The road passes through the village and once it is completed, the dream of the villagers to have a blacktopped road in their village would be fulfilled, he said adding sarcastically that there is however, no surety as to when the project will be completed.

It is not only the road condition which is hurting and hampering the development of the area, he said and added that the villagers are facing all kinds of problems.

PDS items are also not properly distributed in the area, he complained.

The villager also lamented that even though the village has very fertile lands and witness good vegetable production every year, due to the transportation constraints the farmers are unable to take their produces to Imphal.

They could only take their produce to Noney, he said.

Final hearing of case regarding construction of religious buildings inside RIMS further deferred

IMPHAL, January 28: The final hearing of the case regarding land encroachment inside Regional Institute of Medical Sciences campus for construction of churches, which was due today was further deferred by a division bench of the High Court of Manipur comprising of Chief Justice LK Mohapatra and Justice Khwairakpam Nobin Singh.

However, the bench did not fix the exact date of the next hearing.

The deferment decision followed a plea submitted by advocate general, Th Ibohal, counsel of the respondents the counsel representing the respondents.

The respondent`™s counsel informed the court that taking serious note of the matter, the government of Manipur has constituted a committee which has been meticulously discussing the matter.

Subsequently, he pleaded the court to give more time to submit a final affidavit regarding to the case after the committee submits its report.

Even as the bench was apparently left displeased with the latest development, it nevertheless granted the plea.

It may be recalled that Dr Khomdon Singh Lisam, a resident of Southern Palace Compound, Palace Road Imphal filed a PIL before the court (no. 19 of 2013) in connection with the case referring to Supreme Court`™s ruling against erection of religious structure inside educational institute owned by the government. He was represented by advocate Th Manihar.

The respondents of the case are state of Manipur represented by Chief Secretary Government of Manipur, Union of India represented Union Health Secretary Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the regional institute of medical sciences (RIMS) represented by Director of RIMS, deputy director RIMS. commissioner (Revenue) Government of Manipur, Deputy Commissioner Imphal West, deputy settlement officer (Admn), survey and settlement officer, Directorate of settlement and land revenue, popular pisciculture association of Manipur, Lamphel Rongmei Baptist Church and Lamphel Baptist Church.

CPI, Imphal West observes conference

IMPHAL, January 28: The 11th conference of Imphal West district Communist party of India (CPI) was held today at the conference hall of Oriental college, Takyel. The conference was attended

IMPHAL, January 28: The 11th conference of Imphal West district Communist party of India (CPI) was held today at the conference hall of Oriental college, Takyel.

The conference was attended by Dr M Nara, state secretary CPI Manipur State Council; Langol Iboyaima, former state secretary CPI; L Sotin, state secretary All India Trade Union Congress, L Thoiren, Assistant state secretary Manipur State Council CPI.

Moreover, delegates from eight assembly constituencies including Langthabal, Naoria Pakhanglakpa, Wangoi, Mayang Imphal, Patsoi, Konthoujam, Lamsang, Sekmai, also took part in the conference.

The discussion was held on `Political and organisational matter`™ including the abolishment of planning department since BJP came into power, decreased in fund allocation of NREGS, outstanding due of job card holders in Imphal West district, National S ports University, rehabilitation and compensation package of affected people by Government schemes/project, talks with militant organisation without any condition, repeal AFSPA from the state, appropriate legal action with regards to the discovery of skull in Tombisana high school, transparency while implementing development schemes related with women and children etc.

Addressing the gathering, Dr M Nara, alleged that the UPA`™s mis-governance and corruption had favoured the BJP to come to power at the centre Government.

Dr Nara further said that Manipur Government has failed considerably in delivering the benefits to the people while citing the failure Public Distribution System and failure to implement the national food security in the State Government and added that it rather started privatisation of Government institute.

Informing that the left with like-minded parties has prepared to push forwards a massive national, he revealed that similar movement will be launched in the state for which all the CPI is sorting out ground works.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/cpi-imphal-west-observes-conference/

Govt to provide free life-saving drugs to prevent overdose deaths

IMPHAL, January 28: The State government has decided to procure NALAXONE, a lifesaving drug to treat drug-overdose cases in one go for a year so as to provide free treatment

IMPHAL, January 28: The State government has decided to procure NALAXONE, a lifesaving drug to treat drug-overdose cases in one go for a year so as to provide free treatment to the needy in a month`™s time, considering the serious problem of death cases due to drug-overdose.

This was stated by PK Jha, project director of Manipur State AIDS Control Society, at a one-day State Level Consultation on `Improving Access to Nalaxone at Health Care Settings in Manipur` held at the MACS Conference Hall, RD Wing under the aegis of National Health Mission (NHM), Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) and Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE).

Jha said though drug overdose is a common phenomenon among the people who inject drugs in the state, as per reports available from NGOs and communities, drug overdose is one of the main factors for deaths among people who use drugs.

The unavailability of drug overdose data makes it difficult to accurately describe the overdose burden in Manipur. Hence, in the absence of official overdose data of Manipur, the government has been unable to come up with responses which can have any serious impact in containing the seriousness of the issue, he said.

But people overdosed on drugs can be saved by NALAXONE, a drug which is cheap and at the same time safe to use. NALAXONE has been included in the list of essential medicines by World Health Organisation (WHO) since 1983. However, this medicine is still unavailable in health care settings in the state, Jha said.

He further said that considering the gravity of this issue, and to save lives, NALAXONE will be made available to the needy.

CoNE has been taking up initiatives to address the issue of drug-overdose in the state for quite a long time. As a part of the initiative, CoNE has approached the Health department to make NALAXONE accessible to the needy free of cost, he said.

Jha stated `considering the problems being faced by people who used drugs in case of drug-overdose and the feedbacks being given by various NGOs in this field, the State government has decided to provide NALAXONE in one go for a year,` and added that `the medicine to treat drug-overdose would be made available in health care centres of the state. As of now, the approval from the Finance department is being awaited so that the problem of drug-overdose is met at the earliest in the interest of the drug users`™ community. Hopefully, NALAXONE would be available free of cost to the public in a months`™ time`.

He also informed that the most important thing was to make the general population aware that NALAXONE is available in the health care centres. The information should be provided to all the NGOs working in drug-abuse. `MSACS will make sure that NALAXONE will be available in proper quantity as soon as the Finance department approves of procuring the medicine`.

Delivering his speech, Mission director, State Health Society, Dr O Ibomcha Singh pointed out the need to procure Nikethamide along with NALAXONE. There are also cases of drug-overdose when other drugs apart from opioid are used. As such, when we procure NALAXONE, there is also the need to procure Nikethamide which can be used in all kinds of drug-overdose cases. He also informed that NALAXONE should be made available in all health centres and also sub-health centres, adding, `Trainings should also be imparted at different levels including ANMs and ASHAs.`

A former drug user and a survivor from drug-overdose shared that he experienced instances of drug overdose a couple of times and each time he was saved by volunteers of NGOs working in this field.

Finally, he said, he decided to give up drugs and joined the OST programme under SASO. Considering the problems, he had faced with drug-overdose and the need to bring drug-users to the mainstream, he started volunteering to help people like him.

During the course of his volunteer work, he said, he had been able to save about 50 people who use drugs, from overdose related deaths in the last one year.

KNA cadres killed in reported gun-fight with AR

IMPHAL, Jan 28: At least two cadres of the Kuki National Front were killed on the spot and three others injured in a gun-fight with a team of the 8

IMPHAL, Jan 28: At least two cadres of the Kuki National Front were killed on the spot and three others injured in a gun-fight with a team of the 8 Assam Rifles, Kangchup post this late evening at Kadangban Thongkhong under Lamsang Police Station, Imphal West.

The AR team later shifted the three injured militant cadres to the RIMS.

Although the details of the dead cadres could not be ascertained, the injured have been identified as Helen Kuki,30, son of Chongsat of Saparmeina; Satmamang Kuki 25 son of Thanglun of Keithelmanbi BM Road and Thangkholien Kuki 25 son of Thangjama.

Reports also said that the encounter took place around 7.40pm.

Meanwhile, no one has been allowed to enter the encounter site till the filing of this report.

Further details are awaited.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/kna-cadres-killed-in-reported-gunfight-with-ar/

Chief Minister assures setting up a Rani Gaidinliu memorial site in Imphal

IMPHAL, January 28: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has assured all possible help from his government in setting up a memorial site for freedom fighter Haipei Rani Gaidinliu at a

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh offering floral tributes to a portrait of Rani Gaidinliu.

IMPHAL, January 28: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has assured all possible help from his government in setting up a memorial site for freedom fighter Haipei Rani Gaidinliu at a suitable site in Imphal.

He was speaking as the chief guest at the birth centenary celebration of the freedom fighter at the Manipur Film Development Corporation auditorium organised by the Kabui Mothers`™ Association today.

The Chief Minister also said that selfless sacrifices for the land made by freedom fighters like Haipei Rani Gaidinliu are priceless and can never be repaid by the present generations fully.

Rani Gaidinliu`™s statue will be erected at a suitable site in Imphal so that the present and future generations of the land may be able to identify her sacrifices and contributions, Ibobi said.

Making sacrifices was a natural gesture for Rani Gaidinliu, he said speaking of the freedom fighter.

On another note, the Chief Minister said the Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal railway line project which was started in the year 204 is today one of the fastest advancing project among 34 national railway projects and is projected to complete by December 2016.

Once the project is completed, it will be extended in a phase wise manner from Imphal to Moreh by 2020 and then from Moreh to Kalemyo in Myanmar, Ibobi asserted.

Stating that three labourers involved in the drilling of a 5 km long tunnel for the rail project at Awangkhul have been kidnapped by armed miscreants, the Chief Minister appealed to all concerned to release the labourers immediately and without any harm and not to disturb the national projects.

Meanwhile, speaking as the president of the observation, deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam recounted a brief history of the freedom fighter.

He said Rani Gaidinliu was a staunch follower of another freedom fighter Haipou Jadonang`™s struggle against the British since her childhood days.

It is a proud moment for the State that the Centre has released Rs. 5 and Rs. 100 commemorative coins remembering and acknowledging her contribution and sacrifices of the grand lady, the State deputy Chief Minister said.

Gaikhangam said the State government has already constructed a memorial park for Haipou Jadonang in Imphal and at the same time is trying to unveil the nine-foot-statue of the freedom fighter which is under construction, on his death anniversary next year.

The railway station which will be located at his birthplace Kambiron in Tamenglong will be named Haipou Jadonang Railway Station, he said.

Meanwhile, floral tributes were paid to a picture of freedom fighter Haipei Rani Gaidinliu during today`™s observation and two-minute silence observed in memory of the freedom fighter.

Chingjokpou Phaomei of Namdulong presented a Ra-Luh (indigenous musical instrument) recital while Guru Rewben Mangshava joined by his son presented traditional songs.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh also released a souvenir of the observation.

Planning and Development Authority chairman T Mangibabu, MLA Saikot TN Haokip, MLA Kakching Y Surchandra Singh, deputy Speaker Manipur Legislative Assembly MK Preshow Shimray, MLA Tamenlong Janghemlung Panmei also attended the observation as guests of honour.

No security lapses: Gaikhangam

IMPHAL, Jan 27: There is no security lapses in the State, deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said while flagging off a team of the Zeliangrong Youth Front (Assam, Nagaland and Manipur)

IMPHAL, Jan 27: There is no security lapses in the State, deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said while flagging off a team of the Zeliangrong Youth Front (Assam, Nagaland and Manipur) on a North East tour this morning.

The team was flagged off from in front of the Haipou Jadonang Park near Keishampat.

He said the 35 delegates of the youth front will take the message of love, unity and understanding among the Zeliangrong communities spread across the North Eastern States of the Country.

The tour will visit Assam, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya.

Replying to a media query, the deputy Chief Minister who also holds the Home portfolio said there is no security lapses in the public security system of the State although several explosions had occurred amidst the tight security measures undertaken ahead of the 66th Republic Day Celebration.

He said the explosions which occurred around the State were just reminders from the armed groups operating in the State about their existence.

So far there have been no human casualty and al such explosions have been found planted outside of busy areas, he observed.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/no-security-lapses-gaikhangam/

Manipur`s high and mighty shun At Home tea after R-Day

IMPHAL, Jan 27: The absence of the State Governor, Dr. K.K.Paul at the Republic Day parade in Imphal and sparse attendance at the show apart, a lot of dignitaries also

IMPHAL, Jan 27: The absence of the State Governor, Dr. K.K.Paul at the Republic Day parade in Imphal and sparse attendance at the show apart, a lot of dignitaries also missed out the At Home party at the Raj Bhawan in the afternoon of the same day. The GAD or the Deputy Commissioner`s Office however termed it as Reception. The party was hosted by the Hon`ble Chief Minister of Manipur O.Ibobi Singh and his better half, O.Landhoni Devi at Raj Bhavan, Imphal.

There were a lot of important absentees. To start with O.Landhoni Devi herself did not turn up. Perhaps social obligations took precedence over constitutional niceties for the day was marked with numerous weddings across the State. But more important was the fact that the Army brass of the 57th Mountain Division and the BSF and CRPF top brass which are normally seen when the Governor was hosting the At Homes were conspicuous by their absence. Only the Inspector General of the Assam Rifles was seen around.

However there were more prominent and politically important personalities who did not showed up. The list can start with Education Minister Moirangthem Okendro, followed by Govindas Konthoujam Industries Minister and Phunzathang Tonsing Health Minister. The face of the youth in Ibobi`s government Md.Abdul Nasir Agricultural Minister was also not there and so was the lone lady in the Council of Ministers Kum.AK Mirabai Devi.

The Hon`ble Speaker Shri Th.Lokeshwor Singh was also an important absentee both in the morning parade as well as at the Reception. in the afternoon. Ninglun Victor of the NPF and the Deputy Speaker Preshaw Shimray were to be seen.

None of the known dissident MLAs saved for Kshetrimayum Biren were also present. These includes Y.Surchandra ,N.Biren and K.Ranjit.

KTC new building inaugurated

KANGPOKPI, Jan. 27: The New office building of Kangpokpi Town Committee constructed under 13 Finance Commission by Sadar Hills Autonomous District Council has been inaugurated in a simple function held

Haokholal Hangshing, chairman, ADC Sadar Hills, who attended the function as chief guest inaugurated the newly constructed KTC office building in the presence of Seikhosat Hangshing, executive member (Adm.&Town), ADC Sadar Hills and Haokholen Guite, local MDC.

Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, Kuki Inpi Gunhom Lhang, Kangpokpi Town Committee members, Kangpokpi Women Welfare Organization and Kangpokpi Youth Union also attended the function.

The inaugurated KTC Office building has been dedicated by Rev. Tongjam Haokip, chairman, Kangpokpi Town Churches Fellowship.

Speaking at the simple function Haokholal Hangshing said that the office building was constructed under 13 Finance Commission before lauding all who are involved the successful construction and inauguration of the same.

He urged the Town Committee in particular and the general public to utilize the building to bring peaceful environment and transparent administration in the town.

Chonkam Kipgen, president Kangpokpi Town Committee while lauding the ADC Sadar Hills chairman and his colleagues for constructing the building presented a traditional shawl to the chairman and EM of the town in-charge as a token of gratitude.

He also expressed gratitude to the two contractors Helen and Mangminhao for their good quality maintenance in the construction work.

Kuki Inpi, Sadar Hills secretary, Kuki Inpi Gunhom Lhang president and other leaders also spoke on the function.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/ktc-new-building-inaugurated/

Govindas reveals plans to introduce handloom products as school uniforms

IMPHAL, January 27: The State government has plans to soon introduce State handloom products as uniforms of school students and its employees, Commerce and Industries minister Govindas Konthoujam said while

The meet was held at the Ningthoukhong Kha Maning Leikai Indoor Stadium organised jointly by the directorate of Commerce and Industries and the Manipur Apex Handloom Weaver and Handicraft Artisan Co-operation Society.

Govindas said the State Education minister will himself announce the introduction of the handloom products as school uniforms.

Stating that similar meets will also be organised in the other districts soon, he said the meet has been organised to help weavers, designers and artisans of Manipuri handloom increase their income.

State artisans have been producing unique designs which are very much popular both in and outside the State, he said.

Imitations of several patterns and designs which are unique to the State like the temple design (Moirang Phee) have been found sold in markets of several other States, the minister lamented.

Owing to such imitations, three patterns the Saphee Lanphee, Moirang Phee and Wangkhei Phee had got Geographical Indication registration from the ministry of Textile, Government of India, the minister said declaring that anyone trying to copy the patterns would have to take prior permission from the State Directorate of Commerce and Industry now.

The directorate is also trying to process the GI registration of the Mapan Naiba, Potloi, Khamenchatpa and Kouna products from the central ministry, Govindas continued.

The Integrated Handlooms Development Scheme (IHDS) was introduced in 2007-08 under the Ministry of Textile and Handloom and the State received sanction for creation of 54 handloom clusters during 2013-14, he continued.

The State is also seeking sanction for 51 handloom clusters for 2014-15 from the ministry, he said.

The minister also said that the department of Commerce and Industries has collaborated with the NIC to monitor every cluster development in all districts by nominating Cluster Development Executive.

Every cluster has to upload the details of their work done every week on the website of the directorate through the Geo Information System, he said.

He said he will also look into the development of sericulture in the State.

Today function was also attended by Nambol MLA, N Loken, Kumbi MLA S Bira and Commerce and Industries director B John Tlantinkhuma as president and guests of honour, respectively.

RPF claims hand in series of bomb blasts

IMPHAL, January 27: The proscribed Revolutionary People`™s Front (RPF) has claimed in press statement signed by its secretary publicity Roben Khuman the outfit is responsible for the series of bomb

IMPHAL, January 27: The proscribed Revolutionary People`™s Front (RPF) has claimed in press statement signed by its secretary publicity Roben Khuman the outfit is responsible for the series of bomb blasts triggered in the State during the period of January 20 to 26.

The explosions were triggered as part of the boycott announced against the celebration of India`™s Republic Day in WESEA by CorCom, Kamatapur Liberation Organization, National Democratic Front of Boroland (S) and United Liberation Front of Asom (I), it said.

In its statement RPF has claimed its hand in the blast occurred on January 20 at 8 am at near Khurai Lamlong Thongkhong; the blast on Jan 21 at 11 am at Nagamapal Singjubung Leirak near Crematorium Complex; the blast on Jan 22 at 6 am at near the gate of 27 Sector Assam Rifles camp, Torbung Bangla under Churachandpur police station.

Further, it has claimed its hand in the blast that occurred on January 23 at 4:30 pm at Nambul River bank opposite Keisamthong Laisom Leirak; on January 24 at 7:30 am at Nambul River bank opposite Sagolband Meino Leirak and at 10 am of the same day at near Yaiskul Firing Range ground at Imphal River bank; again on January at 9:30 am at Keisamthong Moirang Ningthou Leirak Nambul River bank.

Furthermore, it has claimed its hand in the blast that occurred on January 26 at 7 am at Khuyathong Pukhri Achouba near crematorium and Yaiskul Hicham Yaichampat Imphal River bank and also at 8:30 am at Hapta Golapati Imphal River bank under Porompat Police Station.

It also claimed the blast at 9 am at KR Lane Imphal River bank and Wangjing Purana Heitup Pokpi Mamang Leirak paddy field under Thoubal Police Station and Bishnupur DC office.

The statement also claimed that ULFA (I) and RPF jointly planned two bomb blasts at two different places in Digboi Town in Tinsukia District of Assam.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/rpf-claims-hand-in-series-of-bomb-blasts/