Tag: National

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 12 : The Red Shield Division has strongly rebutted the claims of NSCN (IM) on the AR-ZUF nexus published in Newspapers on 12 Jun 12. This is a serious attempt by NSCN (IM) to malign the image of 10 AR under Red Shield Division which is working tirelessly to ensure peace in the Nonei area. The Assam Rifles under the Red Shield Division has a clear mandate of not allowing any armed movement of underground groups in the area under its responsibility. The public meetings and pamphlet campaigns undertaken by the Red Shield Division against intimidation of the local population by armed groups has not only made the population more aware but has also strongly weaned the masses out of the fear psychosis created in their minds by the under grounds especially the NSCN (IM).
It may be recalled that all major incidents of firing on local population as on 24 Jan 12 as well as burning down of vehicles on NH-37 on 06 Oct 11, 23 Oct 11 and 04 Nov 11 were perpetuated by NSCN (IM). It is also interesting to note that civil functionaries and so called finance functionaries of NSCN (IM) were chased out of Longmai Area by the local population post the 24 Jan 12 incident of shooting carried out NSCN (IM) in Noney.
The bodies of NSCN (IM) cadres post the IFC on 07 Oct 2011 with ZUF in Area Liesok were allowed to be kept in Noney for a condolence meet merely on humanitarian grounds as Nonei forms a communication hub. Similarly, post the IFC of 30 May 2012 in ljeirong, bodeis of ZUF cadres were brought to Nonei by student bodies and the Women Organisations of Longmai Area. No armed cadres were allowed into Nonei by the Assam Rifles. The Army authoritiese have explained the constant bickering by the NSCN (IM) as the signs of the organisation being today totally exposed to the masses for their wrong doings. The allegation of underground cadres using AR vehicles and supplied with arms and ammunition is a figment of wild imagination of the NSCN (IM).
It must also be noted that on 05 Jun 2012 a story of highhandedness by the AR CO was also circulated in the newspapers taking the name of the All lnpui Student Union. However, the same was later refuted by both the All lnpui Student Union as well as the village authorities of the area as an handiwork of some miscreants in the same newspaper the next day. It is evident that the publishing of the said article was also done at the behest of NSCN(IM).
The Red Shield Division has strongly condemned the repeated intrusions by the undeground groups from Hebron and other places into and around Tamenglong which has seriously disturbed the peace of the area. The Red shield Division reiterates its stand that no armed movement of any Underground Group will be allowed and is committed to ensuring peace and harmony in their entire Area of Responsibility. All such movements will be dealt with severely as per the law of the land regardless of whether the cadres belong to ZUF, NSCN (IM) or any other such militant groups. It has also been decided to officially take up the case with Ceasefire the Monitoring Group a PIB(DW) release here said.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/army-lashes-out-at-nscn-im/

Aizawl, June 12 (NNN): The Hmar People’s Convention-Democratic (HPC-D) rebel leadership has “condemned” the arrest of its top leaders–’army chief’ Lalropui and ‘deputy army chief’ Bieknung by the Mizoram police at Silchar Airport on June 10.
In a press communique issued in Aizawl today, the Hmar rebel outfit which is demanding an autonomous district council covering Hmar inhabited areas in Mizoram, said that the two HPC-D leaders were on their way to meet the ‘all party delegation’ (political parties) at an undisclosed location in the Barak Valley, Assam.
“The all party delegation from Mizoram has been working to find a truce between the HPC(D) and Mizoram government and two weeks earlier with authorisation from the Mizoram chief minister it was agreed that face to face meetings should be held. The all part delegation was also told by the chief minister to find a way to end the impasse with the Young Mizo Association ( YMA ). As such, the all party delegation said that just speaking over the phone was not enough and that there should be a face to face meeting which was approved by the chief minister,” the rebel outfit said in a statement.
The rebels also claimed that chief minister Lal Thanhawla had made a “promise” to the delegates that ” there would be no hurdles from the the government side.”
The rebels said the action of the Mizoram government of arresting its leaders was “immature” and terms it as a “cowardly act”.
“It is now clear that Congress government does not want peace,” the statement added.
Urging the people “not to panic” over the developments, the Hmar rebels said, “Hmars have been at the receiving end for over two decades and and we will continue to endure such treatment, but one day the salvation of the tribe will come.”
“It is time for injustice and discrimination to end… Those who have planned such action will not be forgiven even by God,” the HPC-D stressed aptly in a reference to Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla and Mizoram Home Minister R Lalzirliana.
Claiming that there are “more brave people” to carry on the movement that has spanned over two decades, the HPC-D said, “The arrest of our leaders will not weaken us. This action on the part of Mizoram government is a sign that they should never be trusted in the future and we’ll be more careful,” the press note said.
It may be mentioned that the HPC-D has signed a Suspension of Operation (SoO) both in Assam and Manipur. The rebel outfit said the “arrest was illegal” and “we’ll take a decision on people who has no regard for the violators.” “How can we expect a government that does not respect the rule of law to be truthful,” HPC-D asked.
The Hmar rebels said the outfit now led by Zosangbera will continue in the talks initiated with the Centre.
Expressing their happiness over the “continued support” from the public, the HPC-D said efforts were on to get the arrested leaders released “as soon as possible.”

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/hpcd-condemns-arrest/

Guwahati, June 12 (NNN): In order to save the lives of women and infants during deliveries and post delivery a vision document has been released today in Guwahati.
The vision document is to cut the infant and maternal mortality rates in Assam which was released by state chief minister Tarun Gogoi.
It can be noted that the infant mortality rate (IMR) of Assam is 58 compared to the national average of 47. The maternal mortality rate (MMR) of 390 is similarly much below the national average of 212.
Unveiling the vision document Tarun Gogoi said that the state of Assam’s rate of improvement in economic growth during 2001-2010 was sixth highest among all states. He added that Assam has a long way to go when it comes to social indicators. Tarun Gogoi said that though the government of Assam has brought down IMR from 76 to 58 in the last 10 years but it is still behind the national average of 47. “The MMR too has been brought down from 490 to 390 during this period, but we are nowhere near the national average of 212″ the chief minister added.
The chief minister said his government has accorded topmost priority to development of women and children. “The vision document thus encompasses areas such as safe drinking water, school enrolment, sanitation, reservation for women and prevention of crimes against women,” Gogoi said.
The chief minister also underscored the high prevalence of malnutrition and anaemia among girls and women. He stated that coupled with a high percentage of girls marrying below 18 years of age, these were major factors for high IMR and MMR in Assam.
Nearly 67.8% of adolescent girls (15-19 years) are anaemic in the state.
The vision document quoted DLHS-III (2007-08) as saying that about 40% women in Assam in the age-group of 20-24 years married before the legal age of 18 years. Though this is less than the national average of 42.9%, the increase in mean age of marriage for women had a cascading effect on maternal and child health in Assam.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mortality-rate-still-high/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, June 12 : The term of office of Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, President of India, ends on 24th July, 2012. The President is elected by the members of the Electoral College consisting of:
(I) elected members of both Houses of Parliament, and
(II) elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of all States including National Capital Territory of Delhi and the Union Territory of Puducherry.
(The nominated members of either Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha or Legislative Assemblies of the States are not eligible to be included in the Electoral College and therefore, they are not entitled to participate in the election).
The Seven-Judges Bench of the Supreme Court of India unanimously held in 1974 in the case of Presidential election that “the Electoral College as mentioned in Article 54 is independent of the Legislatures mentioned in Article 54. None of the Legislatures mentioned in Article 54 has for the purpose of that Article any separate identity vis-a-vis in the Electoral College. The Electoral College compendiously indicates a number of persons, holding the qualifications specified in the Article to constitute the electorate for the election of the President and to act as independent electors…”
Article 55 (3) of the Constitution provides that the election shall be held in accordance with the System of Proportional Representation by means of single transferable vote and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot.
The Election Commission, in consultation with the Central Government, has decided to appoint the Secretary General to the Rajya Sabha as the Returning Officer for the election. The Commission has also decided to appoint Assistant Returning Officers in all State Capitals including NCT of Delhi and Union Territory of Puducherry for making arrangements for conducting the poll and for transportation of the ballot boxes and other important documents to and from the Election Commission. For meeting any eventuality in case the Assistant Returning Officer is not available for any reason, a second Assistant Returning Officer is also being appointed. Notification will be issued on 16.06.2012 (Saturday), Last date for making nominations, 30.06.2012 (Saturday), Date for the scrutiny of nominations, 02.07.2012 (Monday). Last date for the withdrawal of candidatures, 04.07.2012 (Wednesday), Date on which a poll shall, if necessary, be taken, 19.07.2012 (Thursday), Date on which counting, if required, shall be taken 22.07.2012 (Sunday).
The nomination paper of a candidate must be delivered to the Returning Officer at New Delhi in the place to be specified by him by a public notice either by the candidate or by any of his Proposers or Seconders between 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. A nomination paper of a candidate has to be subscribed by at least fifty electors as Proposers and at least fifty electors as Seconders. An elector can subscribe to only one nomination paper of a candidate as either a Proposer or a Seconder. The security deposit for the election is Rs. 15,000/- (Rupees fifteen thousand only), which is required to be made along with the nomination paper.
The list of Members of the Electoral College maintained by the Commission for the Presidential Election, 2012 (as of today) is available for sale @ Rs. 300/-per copy from the counter opened in the premises of Election Commission of India. A copy of the Electoral College is also being uploaded on the Commission’s website.
ARO of Manipur will be Y. Indira Devi, Secretary, Manipur Legislative Assembly Secretariat and M. Ramani Devi, Deputy Secretary, Manipur Legislative Assembly Secretariat.
Polling for Manipur will be done at Committee Room, Ground Floor, New Assembly Building, Chingmeirong.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/presidential-election-on-july-19-2/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, June 12 : The term of office of Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, President of India, ends on 24th July, 2012. The President is elected by the members of the Electoral College consisting of:
(I) elected members of both Houses of Parliament, and
(II) elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of all States including National Capital Territory of Delhi and the Union Territory of Puducherry.
(The nominated members of either Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha or Legislative Assemblies of the States are not eligible to be included in the Electoral College and therefore, they are not entitled to participate in the election).
The Seven-Judges Bench of the Supreme Court of India unanimously held in 1974 in the case of Presidential election that “the Electoral College as mentioned in Article 54 is independent of the Legislatures mentioned in Article 54. None of the Legislatures mentioned in Article 54 has for the purpose of that Article any separate identity vis-a-vis in the Electoral College. The Electoral College compendiously indicates a number of persons, holding the qualifications specified in the Article to constitute the electorate for the election of the President and to act as independent electors…”
Article 55 (3) of the Constitution provides that the election shall be held in accordance with the System of Proportional Representation by means of single transferable vote and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot.
The Election Commission, in consultation with the Central Government, has decided to appoint the Secretary General to the Rajya Sabha as the Returning Officer for the election. The Commission has also decided to appoint Assistant Returning Officers in all State Capitals including NCT of Delhi and Union Territory of Puducherry for making arrangements for conducting the poll and for transportation of the ballot boxes and other important documents to and from the Election Commission. For meeting any eventuality in case the Assistant Returning Officer is not available for any reason, a second Assistant Returning Officer is also being appointed. Notification will be issued on 16.06.2012 (Saturday), Last date for making nominations, 30.06.2012 (Saturday), Date for the scrutiny of nominations, 02.07.2012 (Monday). Last date for the withdrawal of candidatures, 04.07.2012 (Wednesday), Date on which a poll shall, if necessary, be taken, 19.07.2012 (Thursday), Date on which counting, if required, shall be taken 22.07.2012 (Sunday).
The nomination paper of a candidate must be delivered to the Returning Officer at New Delhi in the place to be specified by him by a public notice either by the candidate or by any of his Proposers or Seconders between 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. A nomination paper of a candidate has to be subscribed by at least fifty electors as Proposers and at least fifty electors as Seconders. An elector can subscribe to only one nomination paper of a candidate as either a Proposer or a Seconder. The security deposit for the election is Rs. 15,000/- (Rupees fifteen thousand only), which is required to be made along with the nomination paper.
The list of Members of the Electoral College maintained by the Commission for the Presidential Election, 2012 (as of today) is available for sale @ Rs. 300/-per copy from the counter opened in the premises of Election Commission of India. A copy of the Electoral College is also being uploaded on the Commission’s website.
ARO of Manipur will be Y. Indira Devi, Secretary, Manipur Legislative Assembly Secretariat and M. Ramani Devi, Deputy Secretary, Manipur Legislative Assembly Secretariat.
Polling for Manipur will be done at Committee Room, Ground Floor, New Assembly Building, Chingmeirong.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/presidential-election-on-july-19/

Aizawl, June 11 NNN: It is a huge setback for the Hmar Democratic Convention-Democratic (HPC-D) as the outfit’s self styled army chief Lalropuia and its self styled deputy army chief Biaknunga were arrested by Mizoram police on Sunday at 9 am from Silchar Airport.
This was announced today by Mizoram Home minister R.Lalzirliana during a press conference at his office chamber.
In this connection, R.Lalzirliana said the HPC (D) is now in Suspension of Operation agreement (SoO) with Manipur and Assam governments. “The agreement has been there since August 22, 2008 and all these while the Hmar militant group has been violating the terms and conditions of SoO by indulging in extortions, kidnapping and exposing their arms”, the Mizoram home minister alleged.
Last month, the Mizoram police had said it was prepared to act fast against state-based Hmar People’s Council-Democratic ( HPC-D) outfit if the militant group tries to create unwanted atmosphere in the state disturbing peace and tranquility.
Intelligence report had said that HPC-D was planning to bomb important power line like Manipur to Mizoram, Loktak Hydel Project and bridges along the NH-54 connecting Aizawl from Silchar. The militant group was targeting to destroy important places in Aizawl, said police department. In this regard the police department was planning to act against the militant group if they try to indulge in any unlawful activities so that the peaceful state is in danger.
A flag march covering most of the villages in HPC-D ‘Demand Area’ was conducted by the Mizoram police early last month.
It can also be noted that last month the Hmar People’s Convention (HPC) General Headquarters, Sakawrdai Mizoram had alleged that the Mizoram government was reluctant in implementing the Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) signed in 1994. The Hmar outfit then accused that the intervention of Young Mizo Association (YMA) recently in the HPC’s demand for Autonomous District Council under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, had been acting as disintegration force of the Mizos rather than unifying the community.
The HPC had said that when Mizoram was given the status of Union Territory under Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Act, 1971 and North Eastern areas (Re-organisation) Act 1971, it had been deleted from Sixth Schedule Para 20, Part III since 29 April 1972. “It no longer was Tribal Area, which will be regretted in future, and the then Mizo leaders are responsible for this. The districts of Lai, Mara and Chakma are the only districts under the Sixth Schedule. All these districts are within Mizoram, and are still administered by the ministers and government officials, and they never separated themselves from Mizoram, nor can’t they do so. Likewise, the Hmar people have simply demanded the creation of Autonomous District Council, which will but safeguard the Mizos”, the HPC had stated.
The Hmar outfit then quoted the MoS between the HPC and the Mizoram Government signed in 1994 which says, “The Government of Mizoram has appreciated the concern and pressing demand of the HPC delegation particularly regarding the political safeguard as available under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India. Accordingly, the government of Mizoram will take immediate measures for inclusion of an area to be specified with the HPC Demand Area of Mizoram and the other non-schedule areas of Mizoram in the schedule (Tribal) Area of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India so that the above-mentioned areas are safeguarded under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India.”
“After such long period from 1994, the Mizoram government is not fulfilling its promise, just because it doesn’t take steps to fulfill”, the HPC stated, adding that in comparison that, the Indian Government was very faithful as it fulfilled the MoS which it signed with the Mizo National Front (MNF) in 1986.
The HPC then accused the Young Mizo Association (YMA) of disintegrating the Mizos rather than uniting the the community. “The YMA is apprehensive that the creation of Autonomous District Council is threatening the Mizo integration,” the Hmar outfit had added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/hpcd-chief-arrested/

New Delhi, June 11 (ANI): As the suspense over the presidential candidate intensifies, the ruling Congress Party and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday made it absolutely clear that they would come up with a suitable name following due consultations and at an appropriate time.
Congress spokesperson Manish Tiwari said the consultation process over the name of the presidential candidate is on.
“See, you have put up this question for almost 25 times in the last one month. The talks are on. When the consultation process will be over and we will come to a logical conclusion, then we will let you know,” said Tiwari.
The BJP, however, said it would comment on the issue only after the ruling Congress Party announces its presidential candidate.
“The BJP’s stated position is that let the name of the candidates should come from the Congress Party.
Thereafter, the BJP will come up with its views and talk,” said BJP spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman.
A fresh round of consultations on the issue of selection of a presidential nominee has begun in the UPA, after the Congress Working Committee (CWC) authorised Sonia Gandhi to decide on the candidates for the coming presidential and vice presidential elections.
According to reports, the resolution, authorising her, was moved by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, who is believed by many to be the front-runner among those vying to be the next President of the country.
The dilemma over the nomination of president continues with political parties remaining divided over a suitable candidate’s name.
Moreover, Mamata Banerjee has so far kept the Congress guessing about whether she will support the party in its choice of candidate for the Presidential election
There have been reports that the Congress is reaching out to allies to arrive at a consensus on Vice President Hamid Ansari or Pranab Mukherjee for the coveted post.
President Pratibha Devisingh Patil’s term ends on July 25 this year.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/congress-bjp-still-undecided-on-presidential-candidate/

Dimapur, June 10 NNN : Reacting to the statement of Naga National Council (NNC) issued by its member Victor, the NSCN-IM said the NSCN-IM is currently having a cease-fire with Indian Government and conducting a hectic strenuous political dialogue with the Indian leaders to clinch an honorable political settlement with India. The NSCN-IM leadership fully understands and is aware of the support and goodwill of the Naga people. “Therefore several rounds of Naga Consultative meetings had been held in foreign lands as well as in Naga homeland represented by every different sections of the Naga People.
In this way, with the mandate of the Naga people the NSCN leadership is holding the talks with Government of India. It is called political negotiations. In negotiations, whether political of Economic, it is a universal understanding and norm that give and take principle is naturally involved. As per the prudence of the Naga people and their desires, the NSCN leadership knows how much we can give and how much we can take. Only barking as mad dogs which are expecting by some silly Nagas will not work.
Political dialogue requires saqacity, technic and positive diplomacies. But it is also regretted that still there are certain elements even among the Nagas who are trying hard to sabotage the current talks in connivance with some Indian leaders and agencies,” the outfit added.
The outfit then said the NSCN does not accuse or malign any person or group unless and until it is provoked or falsely accused. “Therefore, the NSCN warns all individuals and groups to be cautions in their talks and gossips so as not to hurt and provoke others,” it warned.
“In Sunday (10th June 2012) daily papers one member of the so-called NNC by assumed name (may be real) of Victor, an inmate of Kohima transit Camp has been talking about political principle. What is his principle? Is he talking or writing about his surrendered and betrayal shillong accord of 1975?? He is writing about consent and consultation of the Naga people. Had the Shillong Accord people consulted or had consultation with the Naga people before signing the Shillong accord?? A big NO! Mr.Victor’s real name is “VICTIM”. He is a victim of his mind and ego. Therefore, his name is not Victor, but “VICTIM”. He is praising Miss.Adino Phizo. But Naga people acknowledge Adino as a member of the suffering family and so far not recognize her as a Naga Leader.
He is talking about splits and divisions among the National workers. But he must be taught that in a long drawn out movement like ours, there is tendency of dissensions and divisions. It is quite natural. But people should understand “WHO IS WHO” and “WHAT IS WHAT”. People should be able to distinguish what is genuine and what is spurious. Who is real person or who is an imposter,” the NSCN-IM statement added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nscn-im-on-nnc-allegations/

Guwahati, June 10 NNN : An Air India flight carrying 51 people had a narrow escape this morning when one of the nose wheels of the plane fell off shortly after it took off from Silchar airport.
Altogether the aircraft was carrying 46 passengers, two pilots, two air-hostesses and an engineer. The Air India flight however miraculously landed safely at Guwahati Airport after one hour.
The ATR9760 aircraft took off from Silchar Airport at around 9am, said the officials of the Air Traffic Control. The ground staff there noticed an object falling and found it to be a nose wheel. ATC Guwahati was subsequently informed.
One of the officials at the office of Air Traffic Control in Guwahati said, “We asked pilot Urmila Yadav to fly at low pass (after the aircraft wheels are out for landing) so that the ground staff could have a look at the aircraft from close and detect the failure,” he added. “We then instructed her to circle above the airport for an hour to use up as much fuel as possible. This is done in emergency situations to minimise the chances of an aircraft catching fire if it crash-lands.”
The ATC officer added that Yadav was instructed to land the nose wheel as late as she could in order to avoid any catastrophe. “She did some tremendous piloting, handled the situation well and landed safely around 10:30am,” he said.
But the passengers went through the most miserable hour in their lives before the ATR landed. Two women fainted while the crisis situation made an asthmatic old man breathless.
Sumanta Chaliha who was of the passengers said, “We became suspicious when the airhostesses started giving safety demonstration for the second time 45 minutes after take-off. When I asked one of them if anything was wrong, she said they were expecting emergency landing. We panicked when a cabin crew (engineer) began shifting some suitcases from the cockpit to the aircraft’s rear.”
Officials of the Air Traffic Control said shifting the weight to the rear of as aircraft was the ‘done thing’ when problem arises with nose wheels.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ai-plane-forced-emergency-landing/

Mail News Service
Kolkata, June 10 : The Central Bureau Of Investigation has arrested a S.K. Satyarthi , Chief General Manager rank Officer of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) working in Telecom Factory, Kolkata Circle, for demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs.3.25 lakh from the Complainant.
The complainant (a supplier) has alleged in his complaint that the accused was harassing him by getting his supplied materials and tender documents rejected on flimsy grounds. The accused was demanding money from him for doing his business smoothly within his jurisdiction.
CBI registered a case and laid a trap. The accused was caught red handed while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs. 3.25 lakhs from the complainant at a hotel in Kolkata yesterday night.
In the follow up searches conducted at the residence of the accused, 15 passbooks in various names, 20 debit cards, various documents relating to investment, four gold biscuits etc. were found.
These are being scrutinized for further investigation.
The accused was produced today in the court of CJM Alipore, Kolkata and was remanded to judicial custody.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/cbi-arrests-chief-general-manager-of-bsnl-for-accepting-bribe/

Dimapur, June 9 NNN: The Naga National Council (NNC) has accused the NSCN-IM of killing Nagas in large number on the pretext of one thing or the other.
The NNC press communique issued by Victor accused that the NSCN led by Isak and Muivah has so far killed over 3000 Nagas on the pretext of Naga sovereignty. “They (NSCN) killed at first in the name of Naga sovereignty and then they killed, tortured and taxed without the concrete stand in the names of greater Nagalim, Special Relationship with India, Naga Integration, 31 point Charter of demand, Supra State (Christmas gift), Alternative Arrangement within Manipur State, boycott of Manipur ADC election and wholehearted involvement in Manipur State Assembly election, 2012 by killing and torturing the Southern Naga publics without any true color like chameleon. Then what will be the next? And what will be the next wicked action against the innocent Naga public? Nobody knows,” Victor said.
The statement of the NNC leader said that Th. Muivah, Isak and their comrades besides defected from NNC/FGN in 1979 and betrayed their sworn oath of allegiance without principle as they were convinced by Mrs. Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India. “So the Myanmar International News(MIN) London base February, 1981 said, ‘During 1979 Muivah and Isak were contacted and recruited by Mrs. Gandhi’s administration through the Research Analysis Wing (RAW).’ See News Magazine Feb. 1981 Vol. 2 No. 2 page 2,” said the press note.
It then alleged that “the so-called” National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) led by Isak and Muivah was thus formed on January 31, 1980 without the consent of the Naga people and they created division, bloodshed and all sorts of evil culture in Nagaland and followed by other divisions and formation of several groups themselves in 1988, 1990, 2005 and 2011 without any consent of the Naga people, the host of the Naga nation.
Given this alleged background, the NNC leader said, “Politics without principle is the destruction of the people and nations. Destruction is the arch-enemy of mankind and it defiles the Holy creation of God, the Creator of the Universe. In the same way, politics without principle causes division, bloodshed and all sorts of evil culture in Naga societies.”
Victor then said since ‘our forefathers’ had discovered this blessed land of the Nagas, The Nagaland the Nagas have been sovereign, independent and free at all. “We have our inborn sovereign independence and freedom, the gift of God Almighty. Therefore we have been unitedly safeguarding our inherent birthright as a Nation under the banner 0f mandated Naga National Council (NNC) and the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) in accordance with the provisions of the Yehzabo(Constitution) of Nagaland with the theme ‘Nagaland for Christ’ and existing it still under the genuine leadership of Adinno Phizo, President, NNC,” the press communique stated.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nnc-accuses-nscn-im-of-killing-people/

Dear Shri Anna Hazare,
This refers to the letter dated 26.5.2012 addressed to the Prime Minister purported to have been signed by you and several others. I have been directed to make the following submissions to the issues raised:
The Government has tabled a strong Lokpal Bill in Parliament which has features that are more progressive than in any Bill tabled before. This Bill has been prepared after extensive discussions with you and your colleagues and all suggestions that were considered to be feasible have been incorporated. This Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha. Government is of the opinion that Parliament has to take a final view on the Bill and the passage of the Bill should be a Parliament-led process. To this end, Government is open to suggestions from all parties. In fact, many suggestions have been accepted by the Government in the course of the discussions on the Bill and two all-party meetings have been held in an effort to build consensus. The Bill has now been referred to a Select Committee which will be open to receive and examine all relevant suggestions.
In addition to the Lokpal Bill, Government has taken a slew of measures, both legislative and executive, to curb and reduce corruption. The Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Persons Making the Disclosure Bill, the Prevention of Bribery of Foreign Public Officials and Officials of International Organisations Bill, the Citizens’ Right to Grievance Redress Bill and the Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill have been brought forward. India has also ratified the United Nations Convention against Corruption. A comprehensive public procurement law has been approved by the Cabinet. The National Mission for Delivery of Justice and Legal Reforms has been set up.
A Group of Ministers set up by the Government to consider measures to tackle corruption has approved a large number of measures as given in the annexure. These are being implemented by the various Ministries and a monitoring mechanism has been set up to track progress.
To fight the menace of black money, the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act and amendment to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act have been passed. A special committee has been set up to examine measures to strengthen laws to curb black money generation. Independent agencies have been commissioned to assess the quantum of black money and make recommendations. New Income Tax Overseas Units have been set up and new Tax Information Exchange Agreements and Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements have been signed to contain generation and outflow of illicit funds.
Agencies like CBI, ED, CAG and CBDT continue to function independently as per their mandates. In fact, the term of this Government has been especially marked by zero interference in the functioning of these agencies. CAG has functioned in an unfettered way in conducting audit of various departments.
The Government continues to welcome suggestions from all segments of civil society, including the one represented by you, on measures to bring greater probity in governance and public life. The Government is committed to make all efforts to reduce corruption and bring in greater transparency. The Government is also determined to ensure that baseless and uninformed allegations made against public servants are not allowed to create fear that can lead to paralysis in decision-making and slow down growth and development.
We have noted from your letter that you have previously addressed communications to all the Ministers conveying the allegations made against them for their views.
As regards the allegations made against the Prime Minister, they seem to be based on a leaked draft of the CAG on coal block allocations and on media stories. You have provided no evidence to back up these allegations and you have yourself said that you are not making these allegations. All details of the policy and procedures followed for coal block allocations have been placed in the public domain by the Coal Ministry and can be seen by all by going to the link http://coal.nic.in/welcome.html. All decisions were taken in public interest on the basis of legal provisions and relevant policy in force.
The final report of the CAG has not yet been tabled in Parliament. When it is tabled, the Government will submit detailed responses before the Public Accounts Committee as per Constitutional procedure. It is also understood that the CVC, in exercise of the powers vested in it, has recently directed the CBI to carry out a Preliminary Enquiry on a complaint on coal block allocations filed by an Opposition MP and some others. CBI will carry out the enquiry fairly and independently. Your insinuations and allegations against the CBI are unwarranted and unjustified.
I must regret that your statement that “top most institutions of the country like the Supreme Court, High Court, CAG etc. have leveled these allegations [against the Ministers] from time to time”, is not only vague but unacceptable.
The tone and tenor of your letter and the broad and sweeping nature of the statements made are also unacceptable.
Your demand for the constitution of a Special Investigation Team has been considered, as also the terms of reference suggested by you. Having regard to the fact that the existing legal and statutory framework has adequate and sufficient provisions for addressing the issues raised by you, your demand cannot be acceded to.
The allegation that an understanding has been reached by the Government with Shri Mulayam Singh to hush up ongoing CBI enquiries is baseless and untrue. It is unfair to the Government, Shri Mulayam Singh and the CBI and an insult to the judicial system.
As regards allegations leveled against what you have termed as ‘team Anna’, these too would be subject to due investigation by concerned agencies if and when reports are filed. There is no provision under law to subject anyone to twice the penalty allowed under the relevant law.
Finally, with regard to the special fast track courts suggested by you to deal with cases of allegedly tainted MPs, the matter has been considered but cannot be acceded to since Government and the judiciary both monitor the pendency of cases in various courts.
Key measures approved by the GoM to tackle corruption
> Fast-tracking of all cases of public servants accused of corruption –
· Competent authority to take decision within 3 months on requests from investigating agencies for sanction of prosecution (orders issued since).
· Competent authority to decide within 3 months all requests for granting/denying permission under Section 6(a) of DSPE Act, 1946. The competent authority for officers of the level of JS and above in GoI will be the Minister-in-Charge. (orders issued since).
> Electoral Reforms –
· Ministry of Law & Justice directed to come up with specific proposals for initiating reforms expeditiously. (These are awaiting political consensus).
> Relinquishing discretionary powers enjoyed by Ministers at the Centre-
· DoPT directed to issue a general advisory to all Ministries/Depts. to carry out an exercise for putting in place regulatory parameters for exercise of discretionary powers and putting them in public domain. (instructions since issued by DoPT).
> Introduction of an open and competitive system of exploiting natural resources-
· Most of the recommendations of the Ashok Chawla Committee accepted. DEA directed to monitor the implementation of the same by the respective Ministries/Depts.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/pmo-writes-to-anna-hazare/

New Delhi, June 8 (ANI): Facing a dearth of water resources and a decline in its availability, the Rajasthan Government is taking effective steps to control the misuse of water and trying to fill up reservoirs and ponds, besides running mobile water trucks to provide every citizen of the state with water.
Special trains are also being run to provide water to remote areas of the desert state.
Stressing on the need for a better water management system, the Ashok Gehlot-led state government is for the first time, providing water to farmers for irrigation of their lands from the Indira Gandhi Canal.
Water supply resources are limited in the state, and therefore, there is a need to efficiently and effectively manage available resources.
One step in this direction is a plan to use fifty percent of the revenue generated from irrigated water for the maintenance of canals.
The sprinkler irrigation system has also been introduced from the Narmada Canal Project.
Stage Two of the Indira Gandhi Canal is also benefiting from the sprinkler irrigation system and turning barren lands into lush green fields.
Rainwater harvesting is an available tool.
The Rajasthan Government has been consistent in rectifying the imbalance between limited water resources and water usage.
Take for example Nagore District. Here, about 40 water tanks have been built in ten small towns with the help of the Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Ltd.
The state government has several projects to ensure provision of sufficient water across the region.
In the coming year, the state government plans to set up and nurture drinking water projects at a cost of Rs.3796 crore.
This is a time-bound action plan.
Out of the above amount, Rs.590 crore has been allotted for phase-2 of the the Pokran-Falsoond project to provide water in towns like Pokaran, Siwana and Balotra and 171 other villages.
About Rs.260 crore has been approved for the Barmer Lift Project. In addition to this, Rs.88 crore has also been allotted for the town of Takatdgarh town and 111 villages, under Jwai-Pali Project.
The government is very keen on spending Rs.80 crore to establish transmission pipeline with the help of NABARD with the intention of providing drinking water between the two cities Chambal and Boondi.
Rajasthan is the worst effected state as far as availability of water is concerned. The Indira Gandhi Canal Project and the Chambal River Project alone cannot provide sufficient potable water in the region.
Eleven districts of the state, including Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Churu, Alwar, Karoli, Dausa, Sawai Madhopur, Nagaur, Pali and Bhilwara etc. have been suffering from a scarcity of drinking water.
The state needs Rs.25, 000 crore from the Center to solve the drinking water problem in these districts.
So far, it has allocated Rs.1340.00 crore in the budget 2012-2013 under National Rural Drinking Water Scheme, the highest in the country.
Chief Minister Gehlot has requested the Central Government to help his government to solve Rajasthan’s water problem.
A special request has also been made to the Prime Minister and the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission to give special status to the state for solving its water problem

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/desert-state-rajasthan-takes-steps-to-ensure-better-water-management/

Kannauj, June 8 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav’s wife Dimple Yadav has been elected unopposed to the Lok Sabha from the Kannauj parliamentary constituency in Uttar Pradesh that was slated to go to polls on June 24.
It has been a poll walkover for Dimple, as mainstream political parties did not field any candidate against her.
The two independent candidates, who were to contest for the Kannauj seat, have now withdrawn their nominations.
Dimple, 35, who filed her nomination papers on June 5, will be declared the winner from this constituency tomorrow.
Dimple had earlier this week said that being the chief minister’s wife, it would be a golden opportunity for her to work for Kannauj.
“I think being the wife of the chief minister, I have the best opportunity to work for the welfare of the people and to work for the development of my constituency,” she said.
Dimple had contested the 2009 Firozabad by-election, but lost to Congress candidate Raj Babbar.
The Kannauj parliamentary constituency fell vacant after Akhilesh Yadav resigned from the Lok Sabha on being sworn in as a member of the UP Legislative Council and after becoming the State’s chief minister.
Akhilesh Yadav has represented the Kannauj seat thrice

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/dimple-yadav-elected-unopposed-to-lok-sabha-from-kannauj/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, June 8 : The Special Judge for CBI cases, Dehradun has convicted the then four Police Constables of Uttrakhand i.e. Madan Singh; Jitender Kumar; Yashveer Singh & Jaipal Singh U/s 304/34, 308/34, 201/34 of IPC in a case relating to Uttrakhand agitation and sentenced them to undergo seven years Rigorous Imprisonment with a fine of Rs.15,000/-each. Besides, the victim is to be paid Rs.20,000/-as compensation and Rs.10,000/-each to other two injured persons.
The Central Bureau of Investigation had registered a case on 25.01.1995 U/s 147,148, 307 & 302 of IPC on the orders of Allahabad High Court in Civil Writ Petition No.32982/94 filed by Uttrakhand Sangharsh Samiti. CBI took up the investigation of FIR No.298-A/94, earlier registered at Police Station Dalanwala, Dehradun.
It was alleged that on 02.10.1994, Uttrakhand Sangharsh Samiti had organized a rally at Delhi and people from hill areas were proceeding to Delhi on 01.10.1994 to attend the rally.
The ralliests were stopped by Police near Rampur Tiraha in Distt. Muzaffarnagar (UP) where incidents of rape, molestation had taken place. A mob of agitators and supporters of Uttrakhand Movement had assembled on 03.10.1994 morning in Karanpur area.
On imposition of curfew and seeing the Police, the agitators started running in the bylane towards the residence of the then National Secretary of a Political Party and started pelting stones esides shouting slogans against him. The politician along with other inmates went to the roof top. After seeing the crowd, he called security personnel to the roof top and accordingly accused Madan Singh, Jitendra Kumar, Yashvir Singh and others went to the roof top carrying their firearms and ammunition.
Though the mob was at a distance of about 60 yards from his residence & not carrying any firearm and the situation was also not such to warrant firing, Constables Jitender Kumar, Madan Lal, Yashvir Singh & Jaipal Singh fired on the mob after consultation with the said politican. After the firing, when the mob had dispersed, the accused persons took hot water and cleaned their firearms with a view to destroy the evidence of firing from their respective arms. Accused Madan Singh, Jitender Kumar and Jaipal Singh arranged live cartridges to replace the fired cartridges. As a result of firing, one person namely Rajesh Rawat was hit under his nostril and was declared brought dead in hospital. Two persons Rajiv Mohan and Ravinder Rawat were also grievously injured in the firing.
After thorough investigation,a chargesheet was filed on 06.04.1996 in the court of Special Judicial Magistrate, CBI cases, Dehradun against the said politician; Madan Singh, the then Constable; Jitender Kumar, the then Constable; Yashveer Singh, the then Constable & Jaipal Singh, the then Constable(Also PSO to the said politician).
The Trial Court found the then four police personnel guilty and convicted them. The said Politician was acquitted by the Court.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/four-uttrakhand-police-men-sentenced/

The Union Cabinet today approved setting up of an Autonomous Organization named ‘North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach‘ (NECTAR) at Shillong, Meghalaya as a Society under the Societies Registration Act 1860, under the Department of Science & Technology w.e.f 2012-13. The total expenditure involved will be Rs.292 crore during the 12lh Plan period. The Ministry of Science and Technology proposes to establish a nodal centre in the North Eastern Region in the form NECTAR as a society under the Societies Registration ACT 1860. NECTAR would promote deployment of carefully selected technologies, emanating from the public funded research institutions under Government of India and State Govts, in consultation with the respective state governments, after assessing their application potentials.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/technology-application-at-ne/

Irked over the indifference matted out to North East students in the main land India, different students organization under the banner ‘North East Students’ Organization (NESO)’, on Thursday publicized its first phase of agitations by holding a sit-in-protest on June 7 at Guwahati.
Addressing a press conference in Shillong, NESO, Information and Publicity Secretary and former Khasi Students Union (KSU president, Samuel B Jyrwa said, “We have decided to stage a one-day sit-in-protest in Guwahati on June 7, over the failure of the central government to address various issues affecting the North East region.”
He also informed that it is the first phase of agitation to demand the central government to address the issues pertaining to the North East Region (NER). “Discrimination against our students (North Eastern) studying in different parts of country is one of the serious issues which have tormented us. We demand the government to safe-guard the lives of North eastern students studying in main land India,” the publicity secretary of NESO asserted adding “The other issues of concern are, influx, lifting of the Armed Forces Special Power’s Act (AFSPA) .from NE region,

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/neso-to-hold-sit-in-protest/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, May 29 : The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region and Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Chairman of North Eastern Council (NEC), Shri Paban Singh Ghatowar has addressed the the Conference of Ministers of Welfare/Social Justice of North Eastern States in Shillong today. The Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Mukul Wasnik was also present on the occasion.
In his address, Shri Ghatowar said that as stipulated by the Government of India, the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has to earmark 2% of their Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) for expenditure in the North Eastern States in case of schemes for SCs. For other schemes, the money to be earmarked is as per norms of 10% of GSB, he added.
The Minister informed that the schemes of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region pertain, mainly, to investment in physical infrastructure. He said that under major scheme of NLCPR, till date, 1393 projects worth Rs. 11529.17 crore have been taken up in sectors such as roads & bridges, education, health, power, irrigation & flood control, water supply, sports etc.
He outlined that under North Eastern Council (NEC), despite having limited outlay for Human Resource Development and Education, following projects/programmes have been funded:
(i) National Tournament on Cricket for Physically Challenged Players in Manipur during 2010-12;
(ii) Construction of School Building and Hostel at Lyntijam Welfare Development Association, Mawtnum, Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya for the benefit of physically challenged students;
(iii) Part-funding of construction of De-addiction Centres;
(iv) Sponsored a Training Programme on Hearing Disability Sector organized by IGNOU at Shillong for disabled persons
Shri Ghatowar expressed confidence that the Conference would prove to be an important milestone in journey towards achieving a just and equitable growth leading to all-round development of the nation as a whole and North Eastern States, in particular.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ghatowar-addresses-conference-of-social-welfare-ministers-of-ne/

Guwahati, May 29 NNN : Assam is the second state in India after Punjab that has the highest record of crime against the fairer sex.
According to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Assam’s record of crime against women is alarming. The NHRC therefore, asked the government of Assam to do something in this connection.
“The government of Assam should do some ‘serious introspection’ so that the crime against women is reduced,” stated the NHRC.
NHRC member Justice GP Mathur said in Guwahati today, “This is as per data received from National Crime Records Bureau.” He stated this after the NHRC ended its two-day camp sitting to decide 50 pending cases related to rights violations in Assam. The NHRC team was headed by its chairperson Justice KG Balakrishnan.
Justice Mathur did not explain the nature of the crimes but underscored dowry and witch-hunting as the main reasons why Assam was getting a bad name. “Maternal and infant mortality rates are equally high in the state,” Justice Mathur said, adding Assam’s sex ratio was similar to Punjab.
“There is clearly a problem that Assam needs to address. Some introspection needs to be done,” he said. “A large number of complaints about crime against women were received last year. The problem can be addressed through education and awareness.”
Justice Balakrishnan said the Commission primarily discussed domestic violence, marital discord and trafficking (of women and children) in its camp sitting. “Assam is seriously affected by trafficking,” he said.
“The Commission has pointed out that custodial deaths and encounter killings need to be informed within 48 hours. Almost all states are complying with our recommendations,” Justice Balakhrishnan said.
It can bev noted that out of 50 cases, 17 were heard by NHRC’s full bench. At least six cases were closed after the panel received satisfactory answers from government authorities. In the other cases, NHRC gave time to the authorities to respond to its recommendations. It recommended about Rs 35lakh as compensation in different cases of human rights violations.
On Wednesday, the team will hold a day-long sitting in the Meghalaya capital Shillong.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/assam-high-on-crime-against-women/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, May 29 : The Central Bureau of Investigation has today filed two chargesheets against three accused U/s 120B R/w 302 of IPC and Section 3/25/27 of Arms Act in the court of Special Judicial Magistrate for CBI cases at Lucknow (UP) relating to murder of Dr.V.K.Arya and Dr.B.P.Singh, the then Chief Medical Officers, Family Welfare Department of Uttar Pradesh
The High Court of Allahabad, Lucknow Bench vide its orders dated 27/07/2011 in Writ Petition No.3659 of 2011 directed the CBI to take over and investigate Case Crime No 322/2010 of PS Vikas Nagar, Lucknow pertaining to the murder of Dr. V K Arya and Case Crime No 269/2011 of PS Gomti Nagar pertaining to the murder of Dr. B.P. Singh. Accordingly, the CBI re-registered the two cases on 30/7/2011 and took it up for investigation.
It was alleged that on 27.10.2010 at around 6 am, Dr. V. K. Arya, the then CMO, Family Welfare, Lucknow was shot dead by two motorcycle borne assailants when he was on his morning walk, in front of Rani Luxmi Bai School, near his residence in Vikas Nagar area of Lucknow. A Case was registered by UP Police at PS Vikas Nagar. Similarly on 2.4.2011 at around 6.15 am, Dr B P Singh, the then CMO, Family Welfare was shot dead by motor cycle borne assailants when he was on his morning walk in Gomti Nagar area of Lucknow. A case was registered at PS Gomti Nagar.
The CBI investigation of these cases revealed that the motive behind the killing of Dr. V.K. Arya and Dr. B.P. Singh was to be due to various issues relating to the alleged expenditure of NRHM funds. The then Dy.CMO Dr Sachan(now no more) conspired with others and hired two shooters through a contractor, all of UP-based. The accused got embolded after Dr VK Arya’s murder as the actual killers were not detected by local police at the relevant period and indulged in the second murder. Same weapons have been used by the killers in both murders. One accused chargesheeted earlier by local police in Dr VK Arya case, has been absolved of murder charges.Further investigation to unearth the larger conspiracy in the alleged murders will continue. The public is reminded that the above findings are based on the investigation done by CBI and evidence collected by it. Under the Indian Law, the accused are presumed to be innocent till their guilt is finally established after a fair trial.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/cbi-files-chargesheet-against-three/