Tag: National

Manipur Information Centre
NEW DELHI, Dec 30: The Election Commission of India published the list of the names of Recognised National and State Parties, Registered Unrecognised Parties and the list of Free Symbols, in pursuance of paragraph 17 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, by updating its Notification No. 56/2011/PPS-II, dated 8th March, 2011, as amended from time to time. The notification was issued by Varinder Kumar, Secretary of the Election Commission of India on Wednesday.
The National Parties and the Symbols respectively reserved for them and postal address of their Headquarters are 1.Bahujan Samaj Party -Elephant [In all States/U.T.s except in the State of Assam, where its candidates will have to choose a symbol from out of the list of free symbols specified by the Commission] -4, Gurudwara Rakabganj Road, New Delhi – 110001; 2.Bharatiya Janata Party -Lotus -11, Ashoka Road, New Delhi – 110001; 3.Communist Party of India- Ears of Corn and Sickle -Ajoy Bhawan, Kotla Marg, New Delhi – 110002; 4.Communist Party of India (Marxist)-Hammer, Sickle and Star- A.K.Gopalan Bhawan, 27-29, Bhai Vir Singh Marg (Gole Market), New Delhi – 110001; 5.Indian National Congress Hand 24,Akbar Road, New Delhi – 110011;and 6. Nationalist Congress Party –Clock- 10, Bishambhar Das Marg, New Delhi-110001.
The State Parties in which they are State Parties in Manipur and the Symbols respectively reserved for them and postal address of their Headquarters are 1. Manipur People’s Party –Bicycle- People’s Road, Imphal- 795001 (Manipur); 2. National People’s Party- Book -2nd Floor, MDU Building, M.G. Avenue, Imphal-795001 (Manipur); and 3. Rashtriya Janata Dal -Hurricane Lamp- 13, V.P. House, Rafi Marg, New Delhi -110001.
The registered unrecognized political parties and postal address of their Headquarters in Manipur are 1.Manipur Democratic People‘s Front Lairik Yengbam Leikai(South), Opposite-33KV Electric Sub-Station,Near K.M. Tower, Tirupati Lane,Imphal East – 795010; 2. Manipur People’s Party (Democratic) Qtr. No.1, Type-IV, Babupara, Imphal-795001; 3. Manipur State Congress Party, Keishampat (Opposite Raj Bhawan),Imphal-795 001; 4. Naga National Party Hd.Qtrs. Aja Daily Office, Church Road, Dewlahland, Imphal; 5.People’s Democratic Alliance Ragailong, Imphal-795 001; 6.Kuki National Assembly Grace Cottage, Paiteveng, Kwakelthel, P.O. Imphal, Pin-795001; and 7.United People’s Democratic Party (Socialist) Tangkhul Avenue, Imphal -795001. Number of registered unrecognized political parties in India was 1308.
The list of 87 free symbols were Almirah, Air Conditioner, Auto- Rickshaw, Balloon, Basket containing Fruits, Bat, Batsman, Battery Torch, Belt, Black Board, Bottle, Bread, Brief Case, Broom, Brush, Bucket, Cake, Calculator, Camera, Candles, Carrom Board, Carpet, Carrot, Cauliflower, Ceiling Fan, Chess Board, Coat, Coconut, Cot (In all States and Union Territories except in the State of Kerala), Crow, Cup & Saucer, Cutting Pliers, Dao, Diesel Pump, Dish Antenna, Dolli, Electric Pole, Envelop, Flute, Frock, Frying Pan, Funnel, Gas Cylinder, Gas Stove, Glass Tumbler, Grapes, Harmonium, Hat, Helmet, Hockey and Ball, Ice Cream, Iron, Kettle, Kite, Lady Purse, Letter Box, Mixee, Nail Cutter, Neck Tie, Pen Stand, Pencil Sharpener, Plate Stand, Pot, Pressure Cooker, Razor, Refrigerator, Ring, Saw (In all States and Union Territories except in the State of Kerala). School Bag, Scissors, Sewing Machine, Shuttle, Slate, Stethoscope, Stool, Table, Table Lamp, Telephone, Television, Tent, Tooth Brush, Trumpet, Violin, Walking Stick, Water Tap, Whistle, and Window.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/list-of-recognised-parties-symbols-published/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 29: The Press Registrar, Shri T. Jayaraj, RNI presented the 55th Annual Report “Press in India” 2010-11 to the Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Uday Kumar Varma.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary (I&B) said, the Annual Report was a compendium of interesting data containing status of print media in the country. He said, based on previous years’ trends, a comparative analysis of different newspapers in circulation, their growth over a period of time and further comparative statements could be presented through graphs in the next year Annual Report. This would add value to the Report thereby becoming an important reference point for key stakeholders in the industry.
The Annual Report has highlighted key trends for the Indian press for the Year 2010- 11. The analysis provides a broad overview about the general trend of the Indian press based on the number and claimed circulation of newspapers.
The total number of registered newspapers stood at 82,237. 4853 New newspapers were registered during 2010- 11. The percentage of growth for registered publications over the previous year was 6.25%. RNI approved 13,229 titles for the year 2010 ending March 31st 2011. The largest number of newspapers and periodicals registered in any Indian language was in Hindi with a figure of 32,793. English had the second largest number of newspapers and periodicals which was 11,478. The total circulation of newspapers stood at 32,92,04,841 as against 30,88,16,563 copies in 2009- 10. The number of Annual statements received in RNI for the year 2010- 11 upto 15 June 2011 was 14,508 against 13,134 in 2009- 10 registering an increase of 10.46%.
As per the data from the Annual statements received, the highest number of newspapers were published in Hindi (7910), followed by English (1406), Urdu (938), Gujarati (761), Telugu (603), Marathi (521), Bengali (472), Tamil (272), Oriya (245), Kannada (200) and Malayalam (192). In terms of circulation, according to the report, Hindi newspapers continued to lead with 15,54,94,770 copies followed by English with 5,53,70,184 copies. Urdu press had a figure of 2,16,39,230 copies.
The report is a statutory requirement under Section 19 G of the PRB Act, 1867. The 722 pages report, carrying 11 Chapters has been compiled by the Officials of RNI. It is an analysis of the Indian Press which focuses mainly on circulation as claimed by the newspapers.
It also carries different Chapters viz ownership of newspapers, analysis of daily newspapers, language wise study of the press and analysis of registered newspapers. The source of information of the report is the Annual Statements submitted by the publishers of newspapers and periodicals etc in accordance with 19 D of the Act.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/4853-new-newspapers-registered-during-2010-11/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 29: The Press Registrar, Shri T. Jayaraj, RNI presented the 55th Annual Report “Press in India” 2010-11 to the Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Uday Kumar Varma.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary (I&B) said, the Annual Report was a compendium of interesting data containing status of print media in the country. He said, based on previous years’ trends, a comparative analysis of different newspapers in circulation, their growth over a period of time and further comparative statements could be presented through graphs in the next year Annual Report. This would add value to the Report thereby becoming an important reference point for key stakeholders in the industry.
The Annual Report has highlighted key trends for the Indian press for the Year 2010- 11. The analysis provides a broad overview about the general trend of the Indian press based on the number and claimed circulation of newspapers.
The total number of registered newspapers stood at 82,237. 4853 New newspapers were registered during 2010- 11. The percentage of growth for registered publications over the previous year was 6.25%. RNI approved 13,229 titles for the year 2010 ending March 31st 2011. The largest number of newspapers and periodicals registered in any Indian language was in Hindi with a figure of 32,793. English had the second largest number of newspapers and periodicals which was 11,478. The total circulation of newspapers stood at 32,92,04,841 as against 30,88,16,563 copies in 2009- 10. The number of Annual statements received in RNI for the year 2010- 11 upto 15 June 2011 was 14,508 against 13,134 in 2009- 10 registering an increase of 10.46%.
As per the data from the Annual statements received, the highest number of newspapers were published in Hindi (7910), followed by English (1406), Urdu (938), Gujarati (761), Telugu (603), Marathi (521), Bengali (472), Tamil (272), Oriya (245), Kannada (200) and Malayalam (192). In terms of circulation, according to the report, Hindi newspapers continued to lead with 15,54,94,770 copies followed by English with 5,53,70,184 copies. Urdu press had a figure of 2,16,39,230 copies.
The report is a statutory requirement under Section 19 G of the PRB Act, 1867. The 722 pages report, carrying 11 Chapters has been compiled by the Officials of RNI. It is an analysis of the Indian Press which focuses mainly on circulation as claimed by the newspapers.
It also carries different Chapters viz ownership of newspapers, analysis of daily newspapers, language wise study of the press and analysis of registered newspapers. The source of information of the report is the Annual Statements submitted by the publishers of newspapers and periodicals etc in accordance with 19 D of the Act.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/4853-new-newspapers-registered-during-2010-11/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Dec 28: The Central Bureau of Investigation today filed a Closure Report in the in the Court of Special Magistrate, CBI, Dehradun in the Case relating to the death of Swami Nigamananda in Uttarakhand.
Detailed investigation by the CBI revealed that there was no case of poisoning. The technical, clinical, medical investigation has concluded that the cause of death was malnutrition leading to Wernike’s Encephalopathy and associated complications due to prolonged fasting. Chemical analysis of the viscera of Swami Nigamanand did not detect any poison including Organo phosporous poison.
A medical board headed by experts from AIIMS was constituted to examine the cause of death of Swami Nigmanand. The board also heard a representative of the complainant ,doctors who treated late Swami Nigmanand in different hospitals in Haridwar and Dehradun, as well as, those who performed first and second postmortem on Swami Nigmanand were also invited by the board. After an in depth analysis and detailed deliberations the medical board concluded that the cause of death was malnutrition leading to “Wernike’s Encephalopathy and associated complications due to prolonged fasting”. The medical board also concluded that there were no clinical and postmortem evidences supportive of any poisoning including Organo Phosphorus poisoning as alleged in the complaint. Also no evidences came on record showing nexus between the suspected persons named in the FIR.
Swami Nigmanand had gone on fast for 73 days from 20-01-2008 for stopping mining, quarrying and crushing in the Kumbh area. He again sat on fast to protest against the orders of Hon’ble High Court of Uttarakhand from 19-02-2011 to 27-04-2011 during which he was daily under medical check up and after that although he was continuously under medical care he expired on 13-06-2011.
A complaint was lodged on 11.05.2011 with Inspector Kotwali, Haridwar alleging that a doctor of a Haridwar Hospital in criminal conspiracy with the Proprietor of a stone crushing company attempted to kill Swami Nigmanand of Matri Sadan by getting administered poison through an unknown nurse during his treatment in the District Hospital, Haridwar. Later on it was also alleged that poison was given in the ambulance while Swami Nigmanand was being transferred from District Hospital, Haridwar to Doon Hospital, Dehradun.
CBI had registered this Case under section 120B read with 302 IPC on the request of State Government.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/cbi-files-a-closure-report-in-a-case-relating-to-death-of-swami-nigmanand/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 27: Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s statement in Lok Sabha made while intervening during the debate on the Lokpal Bill today:
On corruption, our Government like none before has taken decisive steps. In the last one year, we have been working on certain landmark legislations. The Right of Citizens for Time Bound Delivery of Goods and Services and Redressal of their Grievances Bill, 2011, is before this House. The Public Interest Disclosure and Protection to Persons Making the Disclosures Bill, 2011, and the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, 2011, awaits your approval. The Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill, 2010, has already been cleared by the Standing Committee and awaits Government’s consideration.
The Electronic Delivery of Services Bill, 2011, is being introduced which will ensure that essential public services are electronically delivered at the doorstep of the citizen. These are landmark and unprecedented legislations. On the administrative side, our Government seeks to streamline decision making consistent with the principles of transparency and accountability. We are formulating public policy measures on procurement. A Group of Ministers has recommended elimination of discretion in administrative matters where possible. This is work in progress. We began with the Right to Information Act. We will not end the fight against corruption with the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill.
Corruption is corruption whether in the Union or in the States. It has no legislative colour. I urge leaders of all parties to rise above partisan politics to demonstrate to the people of India that this House means business in its effort to combat corruption. All of us are party to the resolution reflecting the sense of the House in which we committed to establish Lokayuktas in the States along with the Lokpal. We would be in breach of the promise that this House made to the nation if we do not provide for the mechanism of the Lokayuktas by taking recourse to citing articles of the Constitution as impediments. Such a course of action should not derail the sense of the House .
The Central Government is responsible for providing a limited number of public services directly to the citizen. The real problem lies in the domain of State Governments where the aam aadmi feels the pinch of petty corruption on a daily basis. It is for this reason that Group C and Group D employees have been brought within the ambit of Lokayuktas in States.
Local as well as State authorities are charged with providing essential services to the common man. It is here that the bane of corruption needs to be combated. Water, electricity, municipal services, land records, policing, transport, ration shops are but a few examples of essential services provided by State and Local authorities that affect the life of the aam aadmi. Setting up of Lokayuktas in States will go a long way in addressing the sense of frustration that is reflected in the anger that we see around us.
We believe that the CBI should function without interference through any Government dictat. But no institution and no individual, howsoever high he may be, should be free from accountability. All institutional structures must be consistent with our Constitution.
Today we are given to believe that a Government that is directly elected by the people and accountable to it cannot be trusted but a body that will not derive its legitimacy from the people directly or be accountable to it could be trusted to wield its immense powers with honour and trust. No entity should be created inconsistent with our constitutional framework and charged with onerous executive responsibilities without any accountability. In the ultimate analysis, all institutions within the framework of the Constitution are accountable to Parliament and Parliament alone. In our enthusiasm to enact this law we must not falter. I believe that the CBI should function independently of the Lokpal. I also believe that the CBI should function independently of the Government. But independence does not mean absence of accountability. We have, therefore, proposed a process of appointment of the CBI Director which involves the Prime Minister, the Chief Justice of India or his nominee and the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. None should have doubts about the integrity of this process. As far as the issue of CBI functioning under the Lokpal is concerned, my Government believes that this would create an executive structure outside Parliament which is accountable to none. This is anathema to sound constitutional principles. I believe that the Bill which is now before the House contains a judicious blend of functional autonomy and accountability of the CBI.
In the course of this debate, the bureaucracy has been at the receiving end. While I agree that public functionaries must be above board and that delinquents must be dealt with expeditiously and decisively, I must express my deep appreciation for many a public servant who have shown exemplary integrity in discharging their functions in an environment of distrust. I don’t think all public functionaries need to be painted with the same brush just as all politicians should not be presumed to be corrupt. We must not throw the baby out with the bath water. Without a functional, efficient administrative system, no Government can deliver for its people.
Let us not supplant the system with one in which the public servants will hesitate to fearlessly record what they think and in that process endanger the very soul of good governance. In judging the conduct of public servants, we must not lose sight of the need to distinguish genuine and honest mistakes in the discharge of their duties from patently illegal acts. Very often our public servants have to take decisions under conditions of uncertainty. The future being inherently uncertain, it is possible that an action which ex ante appears to be rational may ex post turn out to be faulty. Our systems of reward and punishment must not lose sight of this fact.
All systems of governance must be based on trust. It is the people’s trust that we in Government reflect and protect. Rampant distrust of all authority imperils the foundations of democracy. Our polity with its enormous size and diversity can only be held together when we put our faith and trust in institutions that we have carefully built over the years. The power of the electorate is the ultimate authority which brings accountability to our democratic institutions. In endangering democracy, we will only be unleashing the forces of chaos where reason will give way to emotion.
We are creating something for the future in response to the inadequacies of the present. We have to be mindful of the pitfalls when we look into the future. Let us not create something that will destroy all that we cherish – all in the name of combating corruption. Let us remember that the road to hell is paved with good intentions.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/political-parties-should-discuss-corruption-issue-sans-political-motive-pm/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 26: The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed two chargesheets in three separate cases regarding alleged corruption in North Cachar Hills, Autonomous Council (Now Dima Hasao) in the Court of Special Judge, CBI Cases, Guwahati on 21.12.2011.
The first case relates to the Social Welfare Deptt., in which Chargesheet U/s.120B, 409, 420, 468, 471 IPC and Sec.13(2) r/w 13(1) (c) & (d) of P.C.Act, 1988 has been filed against the then Chief Executive Member, NCHAC; Dy.Director, Social Welfare Department; Junior Engineer of PWD on deputation to Social Welfare Department; Junior Engineer, DRDA Dhubri (under suspension); Junior Inspector of Co-operative Society and two private persons for misappropriating a sum of Rs.13.53 crore (approx) sanctioned for execution of works relating to different schemes under Social Welfare Department, in N. C. Hills, Assam.
During investigation of the case, hard cash of Indian Currency amounting Rs.13.45 crore (approx) was recovered from a secret chamber constructed in the garage of brother-in-law of the accused Dy.Director.
In the Second case relating to the Soil Conservation Deptt, Chargesheet U/s 120B, 420,468, 471 IPC and Sec.13(2) r/w 13(1) (d) of P. C. Act, 1988 has been filed against two Divisional Soil Conservation Officers; Executive Member, Dima Hasao Autonomous Council, Haflong; one Range Officer; one Soil Conservation Field Worker; one Senior Soil Conservation Demonstrator and a Junior Soil Conservation Demonstrator, for misappropriation of an amount of Rs.1.66 Crore sanctioned for execution of works relating to Water Harvesting, Land Development, etc. in N. C. Hills(Now Dima Hasao).
The Assam Govt. referred 9 cases (05 cases in 1020 and 04 cases in 2011) to the CBI on alleged corruption in North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (now Dima Hasco). CBI has already filed three chargesheets in 03 separate cases on 23.11.2011.
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.
Name of accused In first case:-
Mohet Hojai, the then Chief Executive Member, NCHAC
R.H. Khan, the then Deputy Director, Social Welfare Deptt. Haflong
B.C. Dey, Junior Engineer Public Work Deptt. On deputation to Social Welfare Deptt. Haflong
Amjad Hussain Junior Engineer, DRDA Dhubri
R. Ahmed, Junior Inspector, O/o Dy. Registrar, Co-Operative Society, Haflong
Dabasish Bhattacherjee & Amjad Ali, Pvt. Contractors
Name of accused In second case:-
Arup Rai, Divisional Soil Conservation Officer
Amitabh Rai, Divisional Soil Conservation Officer
Subrata Hojai, Executive Member, Haflong
L. Chetia, Range Officer (since retd.)
M. Bhattacherjee, Field worker, Soil Conservation Deptt.
J. Hojai, Demonstrator, Senior Soil Conservation Deptt.
A.K. Das, Demonstrator Junior Soil Conservation Deptt.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/corruption-in-north-cachar-hills-autonomous-council/

Shillong, Dec 22: In a tragic incident, ten labourers of the coal rich mine fields of Nongjri-Nonghyllam-Rajaju area of West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya died in a freak vehicular mishap on Wednesday at Ranikor West Khasi Hills in the Meghalaya-Bangladesh border which is some 176 km away from Shillong.
The incident took place at around 3.p.m yesterday when a truck loaded with coal laborers who were heading home for their Christmas vacation slipped the main road and run into the deep running water.
Five others are battling for their lives after the truck they were traveling fell into the Ranikor river in West Khasi Hills district on Wednesday. The DC said, “ Till this moment nothing can be established for the cause of the mishap”.
As per the latest report four of the dead were from Wahkaji, West Khasi Hills, four are from Pamlakrai, and each from Tyrsad and Dympep village of East Khasi Hills.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ten-labourers-killed-in-accident/

Shillong, Dec 22: In a tragic incident, ten labourers of the coal rich mine fields of Nongjri-Nonghyllam-Rajaju area of West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya died in a freak vehicular mishap on Wednesday at Ranikor West Khasi Hills in the Meghalaya-Bangladesh border which is some 176 km away from Shillong.
The incident took place at around 3.p.m yesterday when a truck loaded with coal laborers who were heading home for their Christmas vacation slipped the main road and run into the deep running water.
Five others are battling for their lives after the truck they were traveling fell into the Ranikor river in West Khasi Hills district on Wednesday. The DC said, “ Till this moment nothing can be established for the cause of the mishap”.
As per the latest report four of the dead were from Wahkaji, West Khasi Hills, four are from Pamlakrai, and each from Tyrsad and Dympep village of East Khasi Hills.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ten-labourers-killed-in-accident/

AIZAWL, Dec 22 NNN: Mizoram Governor Vakkom Purushothaman while greeting the people of Mizoram during the yuletide said, “Christmas is an important occasion for Christians worldwide because it was at Christmas that God sent His beloved Son, Jesus Christ, into the world.
To Christians it represents a time of reconciliation, of peace, of hope and of happiness.
Preparations for the festivities are on in Mizoram as in other parts of the world and there is a general feeling of cheerfulness and goodwill.” He also said that this would be his first Christmas here in Mizoram and is looking forward to enjoy the spirit of merriment and festivity which is in the air.
While reveling in the festivities of Christmas, the Governor sent a message of “peace and goodwill” that was proclaimed by the angels at Christmas. He expressed confident that the celebrations in Mizoram will be in the true spirit of Christmas that is love, peace, goodwill and benevolence.
In his message, the Governor expressed deeply about the state, its beautiful landscape, moderate climate provide immense scope for developing tourism and tourist related industries. Promotion and publicity of the various festivals and dances could draw tourists not only from the mainland but from different parts of the world, he said.
While commenting on the Congress flagship project, New Land Use Policy (NLUP), the governor stated that for the coordinated development of rural areas is now in full swing. However the success of NLUP rest largely on the active participation of the beneficiaries and the line departments.
He also conveyed his appreciation of the active role being played by the Churches and the NGOs in supporting the Government’s efforts in various projects intended for the socioeconomic uplift of the society and in enlightening the citizens of the-State on health related issues.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/christmas-is-an-important-occasion-for-christians-worldwide-governor/

AIZAWL, Dec 22 NNN: Mizoram Governor Vakkom Purushothaman while greeting the people of Mizoram during the yuletide said, “Christmas is an important occasion for Christians worldwide because it was at Christmas that God sent His beloved Son, Jesus Christ, into the world.
To Christians it represents a time of reconciliation, of peace, of hope and of happiness.
Preparations for the festivities are on in Mizoram as in other parts of the world and there is a general feeling of cheerfulness and goodwill.” He also said that this would be his first Christmas here in Mizoram and is looking forward to enjoy the spirit of merriment and festivity which is in the air.
While reveling in the festivities of Christmas, the Governor sent a message of “peace and goodwill” that was proclaimed by the angels at Christmas. He expressed confident that the celebrations in Mizoram will be in the true spirit of Christmas that is love, peace, goodwill and benevolence.
In his message, the Governor expressed deeply about the state, its beautiful landscape, moderate climate provide immense scope for developing tourism and tourist related industries. Promotion and publicity of the various festivals and dances could draw tourists not only from the mainland but from different parts of the world, he said.
While commenting on the Congress flagship project, New Land Use Policy (NLUP), the governor stated that for the coordinated development of rural areas is now in full swing. However the success of NLUP rest largely on the active participation of the beneficiaries and the line departments.
He also conveyed his appreciation of the active role being played by the Churches and the NGOs in supporting the Government’s efforts in various projects intended for the socioeconomic uplift of the society and in enlightening the citizens of the-State on health related issues.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/christmas-is-an-important-occasion-for-christians-worldwide-governor/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 22: The Central Bureau of Investigation today filed a charge sheet in the Court of Special Judge (CBI Cases), Ranchi against Ex- Minister of Jharkhand and 6 others for possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. He was Minister for Health & Labour in the cabinet of the then Chief Minister who was also earlier chargesheeted in a CBI case. In the present Chargesheet, the then Minister of Health & Labour has been charged with acquiring disproportionate assets to the tune of Rs. 6.99/- crores (approx). The six others chargesheeted include his then OSD; his two nephews as well as two other relatives and one friend.
The case was registered by CBI in August, 2010 on transfer from the Jharkhand Vigilance as per the orders of Jharkhand High Court in WP (PIL) No. 4700/2008. Apart from the then Minister of Health & Labour, the then Chief Minister of Jharkhand and two other ex—ministers were also named accused in the FIR., which have allegations ranging from misuse of official position to possessing disproportionate assets.
The then Minister of Health & Labour is presently in judicial custody. The investigation of the case is continuing with reference to other allegations.
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.Charges were filed against Bhanu Pratap Shahi, Ex Minister of Health & Labour, U.S. Malviya, Ex OSD of Sh. Bhanu Pratap Singh, Prashant Kumar, nephew of Sh. U.S. Malviya and three relatives and one friend . Madhu Koda the then Chief Minister of Jharkhand and two ex-ministers Kamlesh Singh & Bandhu Tirkey named in FIR.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/cbi-files-chargesheet-against-an-ex-minister-of-jharkhand/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 22: The Central Bureau of Investigation today filed a charge sheet in the Court of Special Judge (CBI Cases), Ranchi against Ex- Minister of Jharkhand and 6 others for possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. He was Minister for Health & Labour in the cabinet of the then Chief Minister who was also earlier chargesheeted in a CBI case. In the present Chargesheet, the then Minister of Health & Labour has been charged with acquiring disproportionate assets to the tune of Rs. 6.99/- crores (approx). The six others chargesheeted include his then OSD; his two nephews as well as two other relatives and one friend.
The case was registered by CBI in August, 2010 on transfer from the Jharkhand Vigilance as per the orders of Jharkhand High Court in WP (PIL) No. 4700/2008. Apart from the then Minister of Health & Labour, the then Chief Minister of Jharkhand and two other ex—ministers were also named accused in the FIR., which have allegations ranging from misuse of official position to possessing disproportionate assets.
The then Minister of Health & Labour is presently in judicial custody. The investigation of the case is continuing with reference to other allegations.
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.Charges were filed against Bhanu Pratap Shahi, Ex Minister of Health & Labour, U.S. Malviya, Ex OSD of Sh. Bhanu Pratap Singh, Prashant Kumar, nephew of Sh. U.S. Malviya and three relatives and one friend . Madhu Koda the then Chief Minister of Jharkhand and two ex-ministers Kamlesh Singh & Bandhu Tirkey named in FIR.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/cbi-files-chargesheet-against-an-ex-minister-of-jharkhand/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 22: Government today introduced in Lok Sabha the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, aimed at setting up the body of Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas at the level of the States. Government also introduced a Bill for amending the Constitution for conferment of Constitutional status on both bodies. Government also withdrew earlier Lokpal Bill, 2011 as it decided to introduce a new comprehensive
Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, 2011 Bill after consideration of the suggestions made by the Parliamentary Committee which recommended significant changes in the scope and content of the earlier Bill.
The salient features of the proposed new Bills are as under:-
Focus on improving accountability
Ø Establishment of new institution in the Constitution called Lokpal for the Union and Lokayukta for the States. These autonomous
and independent bodies, shall have powers of superintendence and direction for holding a preliminary inquiry, causing an investigation to be made and prosecution of offences in respect of complaints under any law for the prevention of corruption.
Ø The Bill provides a uniform vigilance and anti corruption road map for the nation, both at Centre and States.
Ø The Bill institutionalizes separation of investigation from prosecution and thereby removing conflict of interest as well as increasing the scope for professionalism and specialisation.
Structure of the Institution:
Ø Lokpal will consist of a Chairperson and a maximum of eight Members of which fifty percent shall be judicial Members.
Ø Fifty per cent of members of Lokpal shall be from amongst SC, ST, OBCs, Minorities and Women.
Ø There shall be an Inquiry Wing of the Lokpal for conducting the preliminary inquiry and an independent Prosecution Wing.
Ø Officers of the Lokpal to include the Secretary, Director of Prosecution, Director of Inquiry and other officers.
Process of selection:
Ø The selection of Chairperson and Members of Lokpal shall be through a Selection Committee consisting of –
§ Prime Minister;
§ Speaker of Lok Sabha;
§ Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha;
§ Chief Justice of India or a sitting Supreme Court Judge nominated by CJI;
§ Eminent jurist to be nominated by the President of India Ø A Search Committee to assist Selection Committee in the process of selection. Fifty per cent of members of Search Committee shall
be from amongst SC, ST, OBCs, Minorities and Women.
Jurisdiction:
Ø Prime Minister to be brought under the purview of the Lokpal with subject matter exclusions and specific process for handling complaints against the Prime Minister. Lokpal can not hold any inquiry against the Prime Minister if allegations relate to:
§ International relations;
§ External and internal security of the country;
§ Public Order;
§ Atomic energy§ Space.
Any decision of Lokpal to initiate preliminary inquiry or investigation against the Prime Minister shall be taken only by the Full Bench with a majority of 3/4th. Such proceedings shall be held in camera.
Ø Lokpal’s jurisdiction to include all categories of public servants including Group ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’ & ‘D’ officers and employees of Government. On complaints referred to CVC by Lokpal, CVC will send its report of PE in respect of Group ‘A’ and ‘B’ officers back to Lokpal for further decision.
With respect to Group ‘C’ and ‘D’ employees, CVC will proceed further in exercise of its own powers under
the CVC Act subject to reporting and review by Lokpal.
Ø All entities receiving donations from foreign source in the context of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) in excess of
Rs. 10 lakhs per year are brought under the jurisdiction of Lokpal.
Ø Lokpal will not be able to initiate inquiry suo moto.

Other significant features of the Bill

Ø No prior sanction shall be required for launching prosecution in cases enquired by Lokpal or initiated on the direction and with the
approval of Lokpal.
Ø A high powered Committee chaired by the Prime Minister with leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha and Chief Justice of India
as members, will recommend selection of the Director, CBI.

Ø Provisions for confiscation of property acquired by corrupt means, even while prosecution is pending.

Ø Lokpal to be final appellate authority on all decisions by public authorities relating to provision of public services and redressal of
grievances containing findings of corruption.

Ø Lokpal to have power of superintendence and direction over any investigation agency including CBI for cases referred to them.

Ø The Bill lays down clear time lines for :

§ Preliminary enquiry – three months extendable by three months.

§ Investigation – six months extendable by six months.

§ Trial – one year extendable by one year.

Ø The Bill proposes to enhance punishment under Prevention of Corruption Act :

(a) Maximum punishment from 7 years to 10 years

(b) Minimum punishment from 6 months to 2 years

Ø The Bill proposes to give legal backing to Asset Declaration by public servants.

Ø The Bill also seeks to make necessary consequential amendments in the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952, the Prevention of
Corruption Act, 1988, the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003, and the Delhi Special Police
Establishment Act, 1946.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/lokpal-and-lokayuktas-bill-2011-introduced/

AIZAWL, Dec 21: The state which has been dry for the last 13 years may soon be wet again.
After the Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition Act passed in the year 1997, the govt had prohibited sale, possession and consumption of any kind of wine/whiskey in the state. As there has been various incidents of breaching the law, the state govt had formed Mizoram Study Group of MLTP Act to study the failures and success of the Act. The State Prohibition Council will study the reports of the Study Group and Sub-Group on MLTP Act, 1995 on January next year. The study group had asked various organisations on their opinion in connection with the implementation of MLTP Act. Meanwhile, the State Prohibition Council in its meeting held in Aizawl under the chairmanship the Excise Minister, JH Rothuama. The meeting also discussed the report prepared by Presbyterian Synod which collected opinions from 1,008 persons. The Prohibition Council also welcomed efforts made by the YMA and other voluntary organisations for creation of conduceive and peaceful atmosphere during celeberation of Christmas and New year. Their representatives will also visit persons on duty in various localities on the 23rd evening.
Now the big question is whether the Mizoram govt will lift the Act legalising selling and consumption of wine/whiskey or any International branded in the market.
Meanwhile, since the passing of MLTP Act in 1997, though an interested person can still find liquor in various places but open sale and consumption was totally banned. It was in the year 2007, MLTP Act was amended which legalised manufacture of wine from guavas and grapes but with strict rules. In this amendment, manufacturer should follow govt rules on percentage of alcohol to be included in the wine and the quantity of wine to be possessed by any individual. The amendment also forbid transport and export of local manufactured wine outside the state.
During the year 2010, the state after 13 years of prohibiting grape cultivators from producing wine have brought out Zawlaidi, love potion, a locally manufactured grape wine, thanks to the amendment of MLTP Act 1997 in 2007. The enthusiasm of the grape farmers has been fuelled by the amendment of the Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition (MLTP) Act. The Act had earlier prevented them from large-scale commercialisation of their products and wine-making from grapes.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mizoram-may-lift-liquor-ban-next-year/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 21: The Addl. Session Judge, Fast Track Court, Rohini, New Delhi has convicted Vijay Khanna U/s 120 B, 420, 467, 468, 471, 482 A&B IPC and sentenced him to undergo five years Simple Imprisonment with fine of Rs.5000/-. Accused Vijay Khanna has also been imposed fine of Rs. 05 lakh as compensation to the complainant.
CBI took up the investigation of FIR No.135/1991 of Police Station, Hazrat Nizamuddin, New Delhi on the directions of Govt. of India and registered a case on 08.10.1996 U/s 120 B, 420, 467 &471 IPC.
It was alleged in the complaint that the complainant was introduced to Mr. & Mrs. Vijay Khanna by a common friend. In November, 1992 the common friend approached the complainant and requested to lend an amount of Rs. Five lakh for a joint business venture with him and Mr. & Mrs. Vijay Khanna on a joint guarantee, to be repaid in three months. The complainant paid Rs. Five lakh to the common friend against a promissory note. On 01.03.1993, the accused met the complainant and handed over a draft of $ Twenty Five Thousand purportedly issued by Chemical Bank, Los Angeles, California. As the draft was equivalent to te Rs. 8,12,500/-, the complainant paid Rs. 3,12,500/- to the accused and returned the promissory note. Subsequently the draft was found to be forged when deposited by the complainant in his NRI account maintained in Punjab National Bank, Naraina, Delhi.
After thorough investigation a chargesheet was filed in CMM Court Delhi on 06.03.1998. The charges, U/s 420, 467 & 471 IPC were framed by the Trial Court on 22.05.2004. The Addl. Session Judge, Fast Track Court, Rohini found the accused guilty and convicted him.
In another case, the Addl. Session Judge, Fast Track Court, Rohini convicted accused Vijay Khanna U/s 120 B, 467, 471, 489 A & 489 B IPC and sentenced him to undergo five years Simple Imprisonment with a fine of Rs. Five Thousand. Accused Vijay Khanna has also been imposed a fine of Rs. 5 lakh payable to CITI Bank.
CBI took up the investigation of FIR No.200/1994 of Police Station, R.K. Puram, New Delhi on the directions of Govt. of India and registered a case on 12.08.1996.
It was alleged that the complainant & his client (NRI, who lives in USA) were introduced to Sh. Vijay Khanna by Sh. Narinder Kumar Jain (since expired) a friend of his client at a hotel in New Delhi on March, 01,1993, where Mr. Vijay Khanna had given a Bank draft no. 00718642 dated 24.02.1993 for US $ 10,000/- purportedly issued by Chemical Bank, Los Angeles California to complainant. In lieu of the bank draft, the complainant made a total payment of Rs.3,27,000/- to Sh. Vijay Khanna and Sh. Narinder Kumar Jain (since expired) on different occasions. On 02.03.1993, the complainant deposited the said bank draft in his NRI A/c No. 504341008 in CITI Bank, Connaught Circus, New Delhi, which was subsequently found to be forged.
A chargesheet was filed against accused Vijay Khanna U/s 420, 467, 468, 471, 489A & B r/w 120B IPC in the Court of CMM, Delhi on 06.07.1998. The Court found the accused Vijay Khanna guilty and convicted him.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/accused-sentenced-to-undergo-five-years-imprisonment/

MNS: As there is no commonly delineated Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, there are a few areas along the border where India and China have different perceptions of LAC. Both sides patrol upto their respective perceptions of LAC due to perceived differences in alignment of LAC.
On 13.7.2011, a PLA patrol attempted to cross a 200 feet wall of loose stones constructed 250 meters on our side of Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Yangtse area of Tawang which was prevented by our troops. The stone wall was partially damaged by PLA which has been reconstructed. As per the established mechanism with China, a strong protest was lodged with the Chinese side on the action of the PLA patrol in a Flag meeting.
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Miss Anusuiya Uikey and Shri A. Elavarasan in Rajya Sabha today.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/demolishing-wall-by-chinese-army-in-arunachal-pradesh/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 20: 20 States have constituted State Human Rights Commissions. These are Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
8 States have not constituted the State Human Rights Commissions. These are Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Haryana, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Uttarakhand.
The responsibility to ensure adequate manpower and infrastructure for each SHRC lies primarily with the respective State Government. The Govt. of India and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) are keen that each State sets up a State Human Rights Commission. The Govt. and NHRC have been requesting to all those States, which have not yet constituted their State Commission, to do so at the earliest. This was stated by Shri Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in Ministry of Home Affairs in written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/state-responsibility-to-maintain-hr-commission/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 20: 20 States have constituted State Human Rights Commissions. These are Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
8 States have not constituted the State Human Rights Commissions. These are Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Haryana, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Uttarakhand.
The responsibility to ensure adequate manpower and infrastructure for each SHRC lies primarily with the respective State Government. The Govt. of India and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) are keen that each State sets up a State Human Rights Commission. The Govt. and NHRC have been requesting to all those States, which have not yet constituted their State Commission, to do so at the earliest. This was stated by Shri Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in Ministry of Home Affairs in written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/state-responsibility-to-maintain-hr-commission/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 20: Fragmentation of habitats is known to have adverse impact on biodiversity. Taking note of this in the North Eastern States, the Government has taken up a number of measures. These inter alia include the following:
(i) Documentation of plant and animal diversity of the north eastern States by the regional centres of the Botanical Survey in India and the Zoological Survey of India, respectively.
(ii) Biodiversity characterisation at the landscape level using satellite remote sensing in parts of North-eastern India jointly by the Department of Biotechnology and Department of Space in order to comprehensively map the bioresources, including providing population status of more than 1000 species.
(iii) Establishment of the Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development in Imphal, Manipur in 2001 by Department of Biotechnology for development and sustainable utilization of bioresources through biotechnological interventions for socio-economic growth of the North-Eastern region.
(iv) Setting up of the North-Eastern Region-Biotechnology Programme Management Cell by Department of Biotechnology to effectively coordinate various programmes implemented in the region.
(v) Supporting of a number of research and development projects by the Government towards restoration of degraded habitats in the North Eastern region. This information was given by the Minister of State for Environment and Forests (independent charge) Shrimati Jayanthi Natarajan in a written reply to a question by Shri Kumar Deepak Das in Rajya Sabha today.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/eco-system-in-ne-states/