Tag: State

Imphal, August 22 MNS NNN: A highly decomposed body of a non-local was found in the Imphal River section of Sekmaijing Thongkhong under Kakching Police Station in Thoubal district this afternoon.
The body of Dasharath Ram aged about 40, son of Mahendra Ram, a native of Bihar’s Muzafarpur, was spotted by some locals of Sekmaijing Thongkhong who were taking bath in the river around 1 p.m.
Dasharath was staying in a rented house at Nagamapal Eshing Chaibi and stayed there for a couple of years before he was found dead Wednesday, according to a police report.
The report said a team of Kakching Police Station recovered the body and later identified it. The body, which was found wearing only an underwear, was in a highly decomposed state, it added.
Whereabouts of Dasharath was unknown since he went missing after going out from the house to take bath in the Imphal River around 9 a.m. of August 19, the report said, adding he was not a good swimmer

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/body-found-at-river/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Aug 22: The Nehru Yuva Kendra Imphal yesterday observed Sadbhavana Diwas at the Court Room of D.C. Office, Imphal West. The programme was attended by Vice – Chairperson Km. L. Tilotama as Chief Guest, Ningthoukhongjam Ibungochoubi, Journalist and social activist as Resource Person and Jackie Ruivah, Zonal Director, NYKS, Imphal Zone as Functional President.
In the morning session there was a special session in which the Youth Club Leader coming from all the blocks of Imphal West District presented report on :-
1. the achievement of the youth clubs during the last 2 years,
2. challenges faced by the youth club,
3. Action plan for the year 2012-13.
This was followed by an interaction session between the members of the different youth clubs and various Departmental experts of Central and State Government.
In the second session there were offering of Floral tributes to the Photograph of Late Rajiv Gandhi, the 6th Prime Minister of India.
All dignitaries and invitees joined in the floral tribute in the traditional way. Y. Laksman Singh District Youth Co-ordinator, in his keynote address mention about the purpose of observing the day and also highlighted about the programmes and activities of NYK for the year 2012-13.
This was followed by an inspirational speech from Ningthoukhongjam Ibungochoubi, resource person on Youth and Social Harmony in Manipur. In his speech, he said that defining the role of youth is very critical even more so when there is social unrest. Youths are often called both in times of peace and in times of war to protect the nation, to defend the nation or for the development of the nation. Apart from defining youth he said that “…… asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength.
However, one should be in a position to be able to help others. But there are many more people who do not have the strength to ask for help. ur duty as youth clubs is to collectively find out ways to help such youths.
He further said that the first character of youth should be to quote, “Do not negotiate out of Fear but do not fear to negotiate.” He further spoke on instilling in today’s youth the spirit of volunteerism only then there will be social harmony.
The Chief Guest released the IEC booklet on Youth Initiative for Publicity of Message of Peace and Development in Manipur. She also gave away Certificates and Prizes to the Position Holders of the Essay Writing Competition organised by the Kendra at the Kanan Devi Memorial School on the theme of the Role of Youth and Student in maintaining Peace & Harmony in Manipur. The Chief Guest administered Sadbhavana Day Pledge with all the participants and officials
The Zonal Director thanked all the participating Youth Leaders and Government Officials for their active involvement in the all round development of the Community.
She further sought the co-operation of all concern for successful implementation of the Youth Programme in the District. The Observance of the Day was closed with Plantation of Trees in the Campus of the D.C. Office Complex and Distribution of Tree Saplings to all the Youth Clubs Leaders.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nyk-observes-sadbhavana-diwas/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Aug 22: The Nehru Yuva Kendra Imphal yesterday observed Sadbhavana Diwas at the Court Room of D.C. Office, Imphal West. The programme was attended by Vice – Chairperson Km. L. Tilotama as Chief Guest, Ningthoukhongjam Ibungochoubi, Journalist and social activist as Resource Person and Jackie Ruivah, Zonal Director, NYKS, Imphal Zone as Functional President.
In the morning session there was a special session in which the Youth Club Leader coming from all the blocks of Imphal West District presented report on :-
1. the achievement of the youth clubs during the last 2 years,
2. challenges faced by the youth club,
3. Action plan for the year 2012-13.
This was followed by an interaction session between the members of the different youth clubs and various Departmental experts of Central and State Government.
In the second session there were offering of Floral tributes to the Photograph of Late Rajiv Gandhi, the 6th Prime Minister of India.
All dignitaries and invitees joined in the floral tribute in the traditional way. Y. Laksman Singh District Youth Co-ordinator, in his keynote address mention about the purpose of observing the day and also highlighted about the programmes and activities of NYK for the year 2012-13.
This was followed by an inspirational speech from Ningthoukhongjam Ibungochoubi, resource person on Youth and Social Harmony in Manipur. In his speech, he said that defining the role of youth is very critical even more so when there is social unrest. Youths are often called both in times of peace and in times of war to protect the nation, to defend the nation or for the development of the nation. Apart from defining youth he said that “…… asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength.
However, one should be in a position to be able to help others. But there are many more people who do not have the strength to ask for help. ur duty as youth clubs is to collectively find out ways to help such youths.
He further said that the first character of youth should be to quote, “Do not negotiate out of Fear but do not fear to negotiate.” He further spoke on instilling in today’s youth the spirit of volunteerism only then there will be social harmony.
The Chief Guest released the IEC booklet on Youth Initiative for Publicity of Message of Peace and Development in Manipur. She also gave away Certificates and Prizes to the Position Holders of the Essay Writing Competition organised by the Kendra at the Kanan Devi Memorial School on the theme of the Role of Youth and Student in maintaining Peace & Harmony in Manipur. The Chief Guest administered Sadbhavana Day Pledge with all the participants and officials
The Zonal Director thanked all the participating Youth Leaders and Government Officials for their active involvement in the all round development of the Community.
She further sought the co-operation of all concern for successful implementation of the Youth Programme in the District. The Observance of the Day was closed with Plantation of Trees in the Campus of the D.C. Office Complex and Distribution of Tree Saplings to all the Youth Clubs Leaders.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nyk-observes-sadbhavana-diwas/

Senapati, Aug 21NNN: Rendering a Good Samaritan service today to the home-bound students and people of Manipur from elsewhere India, the United Naga Council (UNC), All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Naga Peoples Organisation (NPO), Senapati District Students Association (SDSA), Mao Council, Karong and Senapati Towm Committee, Senapati District Women Association (SDWA) and others provided snacks and other comforts at Mao Gate in the Manipur-Nagaland border.
The surprise students and others who have fled their work places in southern cities of India today experienced a welcome treat from these Naga organisations at Mao Gate.
More than 150 people were accorded and given snacks at the relief camp opened by these Naga organisations at the border town. The Naga civil bodies have planned to open the relief camp for the next two weeks and if need be the duration will be extended, said a source.
Some of the students while interacting with the Naga civil body leaders said that though they were not physically assaulted nor threatened directly but they were fleeing as SMSs were doing the round that August 20 was the deadline given for the North East people to leave their respective places from some of the south Indian cities. Some of them narrated that their friends were threatened and even assaulted physically. Some even alleged they heard of snatching of cell phones from their friends by miscreants.
Meanwhile, leaders of the Naga organisations at Mao Gate have opened the relief camp not only to provide snacks and other comforts but to act as a moral booster to the already shocked and traumatised students and people who are fleeing to their respective home state. These Naga organisations also acted as guides while looking for vehicles to various destinations.
Meanwhile, it has been witnessed that people from the North East are fleeing from the their work places from Indian cities mostly in the south since the last few days following the heightening apprehension of the escalation of violence against them from certain quarters.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/passengers-welcomed-at-mao-gate/

Mail News Service NNN
Imphal, Aug 21: The body of Sarif Ahmed of Lilong was brought to Manipur today and his body was brought to JNIMS morgue.
In connection with the death of the student a JAC has been formed in connection with the killing of him. A meeting was also held at Lilong Bazar.
The resolutions of the meeting included among other things to offer a job equivalent to MPS or MCS to the family, to donate a library in the cotton college where he studied and to provide Rs 10 lakhs to the relatives of the victim.
The body will not be received till the demands are met.
However the JAC has decided to take the body of Sarif after Chief Minister O Obobi ensured the former to meet its demands,” the JAC convenor Zakir Hussain.
It was informed that the CBI has already begun probe into the death of Sarif, Hussain said.
He also said the Government side assured the JAC to take up necessary steps within five days to pay a special ex-gratia and a government job to the next of kin and build a library in memory of the late student at a proper place in Assam.
The incident had happened near the Jalpaiguri railway station in the northern part of the state of West Bengal close to Assam when two people from Northeast were killed and nine others were injured after being thrown out of the moving train.
The exodus of Northeast students and other workers including professionals from the South Indian cities in the last four or five days is not the outcome of the Assam violence but it is a long time racial profiling of the people of the region, the Joint Students’ Coordination Committee (JSCC) in Manipur said Tuesday.
The Joint Students’ Co-ordination Committee consists of Pangal Students’ Organisation, Kuki Students’ Organisation, Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong, Zeliangrong Students’ Union Manipur.These students’ body under the aegis of JSCC addressed a joint press conference at the headquarters of All Manipur Students’ Union here at DM College campus where the leaders of various student organisations from the hill were also attended.
Thokchom Suresh, member JSCC said Northeast students and other people fleeing Bangalore, Pune and Hydrabad are not secured on their way because no security measures have been taken up for them though two special trains are being arranged to transport them home. He alleged the Northeast people residing in these cities are not provided with adequate security even though some particular areas are secured and appealed the Government to take up proper steps instead of politicize the whole gamut of sensitive issue. Another JSCC member, Moirangthem Angamba said the Government is still unable to take up stringent action over the Pune incident wherein a Manipuri student was severely beaten up and that it has remained silent on the follow up incidents occuring in the Southern states.
It is really unfortunate the state Government has not the guts to talk to the West Bengal Government in connection with the killing of Sarif Ahmad, Angamba said. He said it would be a right move of the state Government if it sends a ministerial team to West Bengal to find out the facts and circumstances on the killing of Sarif instead of dispatching police officials there for monitoring the situation.
Postponing it by calling all the incidents as rumours will lead to nothing, he suggested saying the state government should provide security to all the Manipuris on their way from Guwahati to the state.
Leaders of Pangal Students’ Organisation, Kuki Students’ Organisation, Tangkhul Katamnao SaKlong, Zeliangrong Students’ Union of Manipur and JSCC, an umbrella body of six student organisations participated at the press conference also strongly condemned the killing of Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Manipur secretary by armed men.
The north east inter state winger transporter union in a press released urged the concerned authority to punish those persons who were responsible for the killing of Md. Sarif Ahmed. The union also urged the authority to provide adequate ROP to drivers of truck so that essential commodities can be brought to Manipur during the band, blockade on NH.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/sarifs-body-brought-jac-puts-up-demands/

Churachandpur Aug 21 NNN: In order to make the police more efficient in dealing with cases involving juveniles, a one day workshop christened as District Level Consultation for Police Personnel on Juvenile Justice Act was conducted in Churachandpur district headquarters in southern Manipur today.
MACR K.Pradipkumar said that owing to the difficulty in identifying whether a person is still considered as a child i.e one who is yet to attain the age of eighteen according to the definition of juvenile and as termed by the Juvenile Justice ( Care and Protection ) Act, 2000, many acts of the police have created problems.
Pradipkumar while pointing out the importance of biological age determination to be conducted by the police when making apprehension of any child for some minor offends maintained that there are times when the age of the person concerns which are, for instance 15 was recorded as 21 or 22 and then gives the treatment as if he or she is mature “This causes more harm than good,” Pradipkumar said . He also added that sometimes the age of an apprehended person may be determined on looks and his appearances and in the process those who appeared as very old but young in age, happens to get the worst form of punishment.
The MACR convenor then stated that sending a juvenile without proper determination of his age to jail may be counter-productive and create more social problems while adding that there are times of confusion when a child is arrested who had already got himself inducted into a militant outfit. “The question comes whether the juvenile should be sent to jail or place under the care of Justice Juvenile Board ( JJB).
Pradipkumar stressed the need for the clear determination of anyone arrested by the police before proceeding to a next step saying that there are no proper places to look after the person if the police having had arrested a child but registered him as an adult.
Pradipkumar o suggested that a good communication procedure between the police and the Juvenile Justice Board is a must .
K Saroja Devi highlighted the conditions of working girls in cities. She said there are so many people in the region working at massage parlours and other work places in cities getting no proper facilities to live and are greatly exploited. In this regard, she cited an example one girl they have rescued recently from Kerala hailing from Chandel district who was very sick and needed good medical attention .

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/awareness-campaign-on-juvenile-act/

Id-ul-Fitr was celebrated today throughout the state. Mass prayers were held followed by feasting . Muslims dressed in white attires greeted each other to celebrate the festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramzan.
At the mosques Muslims greeted “Id Mubarak” . Verses from the Quran were read out by the Ulema at the mosques .
27 Assam Rifles of 28 Sector under HQ IGAR(S) organized “EID-UL-FITR’’ celebrations at Soura and Keirak
in Thoubal District . The main Eid congregation was held at the Idgah at Soura and the
Masjid at Keirak. The highlight of the event was the rendering of the ‘Id Namaaz’ by the devout Muslims. After the
prayers, a social event was organised at the Soura Community Hall, where the troops of 27 Assam Rifles greeted their
brethren and shared food with them. The Maulvi of the village conveyed that “Eid Ul Fitr” is the time for self
reflection and focusing on the values of all the faiths and Id-ul-Fitr also fosters brotherhood and interaction. The Commandant 27 Assam Rifles, in his message, conveyed his heartiest greetings and best wishes to all and exhorted them to let the spirit of Id-Ul-Fitr build in us the spirit of compassion and love and promote unity, peace and prosperity.
In another occasion,18 SIKH of 9 Sector celebrated EID in Bengoon village with the local people on 20 Aug 2012. Villagers alongwith the students of Madrassa and members of anti drug association were present for celebrations. The troops from 18 SIKH attended the Namaaz at the Masjid and wished the whole community on this day, a happy and prosperous time ahead.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/id-ul-fitr-celebrated/

Imphal, Aug 20 NNN : Following a formal intimation from New Delhi today inviting the United Naga Council (UNC) to resume the suspended dialogue on ‘Alternative Arrangement” for Manipur Nagas, the Naga body has called off its proposed 96-hour bandh in Naga areas of Manipur.
The UNC was to begin its proposed bandh from midnight of August 20 in protest against the non-resumption of the talk on the issue.
“The 96-hour total bandh in Naga areas in Manipur with effect from the midnight of 20th August, 2012 to protest against the lack of sincerity and political will on the part of the government of India and the government of Manipur to carry forward the democratic process of dialogue on the demand for an alternative arrangement outside the Government of Manipur pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue has been called off,” the UNC said in a statement this afternoon.
It said the decision was taken in an emergency meeting of the United Naga Council (UNC) to consider the communication received from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India (GoI) in the afternoon today wherein it was informed that the next round of tripartite talk of New Delhi, the Government of Manipur and the UNC would be held at Delhi on the suggested date of 29, 30 or August 31, 2012 as per the convenience of the UNC.
The UNC team will be participating in the 4th round of tripartite talk at Delhi which is being proposed for the 31st August, 2012.
“We solicit the prayer support of the All churches and the general Naga public for the success of the talk,” the UNC said.
The Naga body also stated that it would like to acknowledge the elaborate preparations made by the Naga tribe bodies, frontal, women and students organisations that had been put in place for the proposed bandh towards securing our political aspiration. The UNC then stated it looks forward to the participation and ownership of the Naga public in the days to come.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/unc-suspends-bandh/

Imphal, August 20 NNN: Manipur Consumer Affairs and Food and Public Distribution (CAF & PD) minister M Okendro today said it is not necessary to “worry about fuel” and other essential commodities in the state, but asked the public not to buy fuel more than personal necessary announcing that the Government is making all out efforts to start home delivery of domestic LPG gas by September this year.
It has become a major hurdle to make available fuel for 24-hour because people are queuing at oil pumps and buying as much fuel as soon as the news of blockade is received, Okendro said.
The public should not worry over scarcity of fuel because there is enough stock of it–17 days for petrol, 20 days for deisel and another 65 days for other food items– the FCS Minister announced and said the state Government is also taking up other steps to ensure non-stop supply of essential commodities.
However, the minister said that during the recent bandh call given in connection with NREGS fund in Senapati district, a number of oil tankers were damaged and many wounded when stone-thrawing bandh supporters attacked them at Mao gate and Maram along National Highway-2. All the oil tankers had stopped transporting fuel for two consecutive days protesting the incident in the aftermath of the violent incident.
The state Cabinet has decided to pay compensation to the damaged vehicles and the injured by deducting the necessary amount from the NREGS fund of Senapati following the incident, Okendro reiterated. The Cabinet meeting was held on August 18 last.He said following the cabinet decision, all the fuel stations had already begun process to resume normal sale of fuel.
Okendro announced the Government is also making all out efforts to start home delivery of cooking LPG gas by September and to streamline all the items of Public Distribution System (PDS) in the state.
All Manipur Petroleum Transporters and Drivers Union (AMPTDU) president Bhupendra Bose and IOC State Level Coordinator K Ibohal also spoke at the joint press meet.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/adequate-petroleum-products-in-stock-okendro/

Imphal, Aug 19 NNN : Committee for Protection of Tribal Areas, Manipur (COPTAM) has resolved that it would oppose tooth and nail regarding the government decision which says that recognition of any new village in the hill districts of Manipur should be done with the consent of the state Revenue department.
COPTAM in a meeting held today resolved that the Committee with the support of the tribal people will oppose the decision. “The final authority with regard to the recognition of a new village in the hills is the Hills department,” stated the COPTAM resolution.
COPTAM general secretary Thangkam Lupheng informed Newmai News Network that another resolution that has been taken in today’s COPTAM deliberation is the Jiribam issue. The COPTAM leader says that the Committee does not oppose to the “declaration” Jiribam subdivision as a full fledged district. “However, if at all the state government grants the Jiribam subdivision to district status, it should be declared as a “hill district” and not otherwise,” said COPTAM resolution. According to the tribal committee, in case the state government declares Jiribam as a district but still not as a hill district status then tribal villages should be adjusted to include in either Churachandpur or Tamenglong districts. Driving home its point to prove Jiribam is in a hill district, COPTAM claimed that in the 1970s any government employee posted in Jiribam was given the ‘hills allowance’ by the government. “This has proved that Jiribam is very much in the hill district,” said COPTAM.
On the hill land survey matter, COPTAM meeting resolved that no agency or government department should be allowed to carry out the survey. COPTAM’s move on this came after the state Revenue minister had stated in the last assembly session that hill land survey would be carried out soon. However, expressed if certain acceptable mechanism is done by the state governmentfirst then the tribal committee may review its decision. COPTAM cited that all land record should be submitted to the respective Autonomous District Council (ADC) and followed by proceedings acceptable to the tribals before the hill land survey is done by the state government.
On the Autnomous District Councils (ADCs) in the hills, COPTAM said that for namesake it is ‘autonomous’ but in reality it is a hollow ADCs in Manipur hills. “COPTAM demands from the government to make the ADCs in Manipur hills fully ‘autonomous’. “Since the elections to the ADCs were held and though it is only a namesake in existence we can do little now to reverse the whole process except to demand for the real autonomous district councils and empower the local people so as to make the grass root level democracy meaningful,” said COPTAM.
COPTAM then discussed on the district boundary issue.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/coptam-does-not-want-revenue-involved-in-hill-areas/

Imphal, Aug 19 UNA : United Revolutionary Front (URF) Acting Chairman Lanheiba @Brojendro said they believe in Government of India and Government of Manipur in having a tripartite peace talk on Saturday.
Though we didn’t sign a formal tripartite agreement with Government of India (GoI) and Government of Manipur (GoM) but we have already three rounds of peace talks with the representative of both sides where Shambu Singh and Suresh Babu represent for GoI and GoM respectively.
The first tripartite talk was held on 23rd March 2012.
For a time being the URF is having a transit camp at 30 Assam Rifles posted in Khurkhul, Imphal West district, at present there are some 100 cadres in the camp but the total strength of the URF is more than 470 cadres, said Lanheiba.
URF is compromising of five KCP fraction which includes Kangleipak Communist Party- Lanheiba (KCP-L), KCP-Sunil Meitei- MTF, KCP-Chingkheinganba, KCP- Lamyanba Khuman, KCP- K.K. Nganba are officially recognise but another two KCP fraction (KCP-Kesho Meitei and Ibungo Ngangom) is also in a joining process inform Acting Chairman.
In the said transit camp 50 percent of its cadres will camp but after having a signatory camp a full strength of its URF will be camped.
URF has submitted 31 charter of demands to the GoI and GoM which includes work culture and green revolutionary as a main points said Lanheiba after reporters ask why they choose for peace talk after such a long time.
There is no pre-condition for the peace talks, we are waiting for interim agreement. URF is form for a common platform for any outfits who want to join in the process of peace talk, everyone is welcome said Lanheiba.
All operation is cease after we come for a peace talk and we are looking forward for a positive response.
In the meantime 26 cadres of URF and 50 jawan of AR donate there blood.
We are very lucky that we got the opportunity to donate our blood to save a live of other said Lanheiba who himself donate a blood.
The press conference was also attended by Rohini Meitei, Home secretary URF and Chingkheinganba @ Chingsuba, Chief central finance.
Awareness-cum-Voluntary Blood donation camp was organise by 30 AR, Manipur Aids Control Society (MACS) and Regional Institute of Medicals Science (RIMS) blood bank.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/urf-believes-in-a-peace-talk-with-goi-and-gom/

Various frontal organizations of Zeliangrong took out a protest rally carrying the body of Tanthuingai Kamei, secy. of ZSU, Manipur who was shot dead in the night of August 16.
The rally was taken out in and around Noney Bazar and later a meeting was held.
The protesters demanded to produce the killers on or before Aug 25. The United Naga Council (UNC) condemns the “cold blooded killing” of Chunthuigai Kamei, general secretary of the Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Manipur (ZSUM) and Mr Jenao Golmei of NSCN -IM by cadres of the NSCN-K Zeliangrong Region the evening of August 16 at Nungkao (Luangkao) village under Tamenglong district.
The UNC said at this time of peace and reconciliation among Naga brethren, the August 16 killings have come as a rude shock to the Naga people.
“Apart from obliterating the two precious lives, the cruel action has greatly eroded the general goodwill and mutual trust that is slowly finding space in our society. The civil society, which upholds the unity and oneness of society is greatly disturbed by the assassination of Mr. Chunthuigai who has a proven record of selfless sacrifice and contribution to the community as a student leader. His sudden departure has created an emptiness that will not be filled up .

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/killing-of-kamei-protested/

MNS: The Red Shield Division organized a State level Seminar on “Manipur Society-Emerging Dynamics”, today, at the Red Shield Auditorium, to focus attention on the myriad intricacies of the dynamics of the Manipur Society and discuss measures to find solutions to its problems.
Lieutenant General AK Sahni, SM, VSM, Corps Commander, 3 Corps, DS Poonia, Chief Secretary, Y Joykumar Singh, DGP, and others attended the seminar. The Inaugural Address was delivered by Lt General AK Sahni GOC 3 Corps, in which he highlighted the rich cultural diversity of Manipur. The General emphasised that such forums provide a platform for all stakeholders to discuss contentious issues and arrive at a possible roadmap for the future of the state.
The Keynote address was delivered by DS Poonia, Chief Secretary, in which he brought out various facets of conflicts in Manipur and emphasised on looking beyond the set piece conventional solutions.
The Seminar was conducted in three sessions, followed by an interactive session with the audience. The seminar saw enthusiastic participation by all sections of the society and the discussions were lively and interesting.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/seminar-on-manipur-society/

Imphal, Aug 18NNN: The United Naga Council (UNC) said its proposed 96-hour bandh will go ahead as planned from the midnight of August 20.
However, the UNC said a safe passage will be allowed to outstationed students and other natives who are homeward bound on “mass exodus” due to violence and threats thereof on North Easterners in some parts of the country. “While the collective human problem of the North East region will receive adequate accommodation, the general public are once again requested to extend their cooperation and solidarity towards our legitimate and registered political issues, which is being deliberately ignored by the Government,” the UNC stated.
The UNC said the bandh has been called to protest against the utter lack of respect for the democratic process of dialogue and insincerity on the part of the Government of India and the Government of Manipur in taking forward the tripartite talk on the demand for an alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur .

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/unc-to-go-ahead-with-96-hour-bandh/

Imphal, August 18 NNN: In Tamenglong district, petrolium extraction plan on Friday faced a stiff opposition from the local residents as large number of agitating people forced the district administrators and the company’s authorities to sign an agreement on ‘no petrolium excavation’ in Manipur.
Hundreds of protesting local people under the aegis of the Committee on Protection of Natural Resources of Manipur thronged Nungba Community Hall holding placards and trying to mar a public hearing on the issue. They showed strong opposition against the plan, saying the people stand against it.
Notwithstanding the protest, the district authority somehow began the hearing under tight security around 11 a.m. Soon after that, the agitatation turned violence and started to disrupt the hearing shouting anti-exploration slogans.
As the tension escalated the district Deputy Commissioner C Arthur rushed at the site and tried to pacify the agitators making appeal to stay calm and leave the site. Not heeding to his request, another group of agitators arrived at the scene and stopped the DC from leaving the area.
The protestors later forced Arthur to sign an agreement to stop oil exploration in the state.
Mention may be made here that on August 14, the All Zeliangrong Students’ Union (Assam, Manipur and Nagaland) had urged the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India to “withdraw” the PEL licenses granted to Jubilant Oil and Gas Private Limited (JOGPL), based in the Netherlands which has been awarded the contract works for the exploration and drilling in two oil blocks in Manipur located in the Jiribam (Imphal East district), Tamenglong and Churachandpur districts of Manipur.
According to the Zeliangrong students’ body, the contracts were awarded to the Netherlands based company under the eighth round of New Exploration Licensing Policy Eight round (NELP-VIII). The Government of India had signed the “Production Sharing Contract” (PSC) on July 19, 2010 in New Delhi with JOGPL for onland oil block in Manipur, codenamed (AA-ONN-2009/1) & (AA-ONN-2009/2), said the AZSU.
Another area that concerns the AZSU is the lack of transparency. “No details on the quantum of oil discovered in Manipur or results of studies have been revealed so far to the people of the state. The indigenous minorities of Manipur are not informed officially till date that, oil is found in Manipur and that contract has been offered to foreign companies for exploration. That, the Detailed Project Report, Production Sharing Contract, the Petroleum Exploration Licensing agreements, EMP, EIA, MOU, social, cultural and economic assessments, which are signed between the Government of India, Government of Manipur and the Jubilant Oil and Gas Private Limited in the year 2010 are not provided to the indigenous peoples of Manipur, more so with the affected peoples of Tamenglong, Churachandpur and Jiribam sub division of Imphal East Districts. No one in Manipur is aware of what kind of terms and conditions are laid down in the licensing between the Government and the Jubilant Oil and Gas Private Limited. The Draft EAI and executive summary did not include indigenous languages like Zeme, Liangmei, Kuki, etc which is mandatory in the public hearing process. The petroleum exploration is an international issue which needs immediate attention to control the Climate Change phenomenon. This project will destroy the biodiversity hot spot zone. It will affect the aquatic habitat of India and her neighboring countries; permanent damage of green zone of India, endanger species, relocation of animal habitat and their environment, disturb migratory birds and animal in the region. It will disturb the rail heads crossing the region, Tipaimukh dam, etc.,” said the AZSU.The AZSU then expressed its concern that innocent villagers of Tamenglong district, who have no technical knowledge of the n impacts .

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/tamenglong-no-to-oil-exploration/

Senapati, Aug 16 NNN: About 80 goods vehicles were stoned by bandh supporters between Mao Gate and Maram along the National Highway 2 (previously NH-39) this afternoon. One loaded oil tanker got leaked due to the stoning while another loaded oil tanker dashed into a drain.
The Senapati police have filed four FIRs against the bandh sponsor.
The Senapati District Chairmen/Secretaries Association has been imposing a 48-hour bandh since the midnight of August 15 in protest against the deduction of 25 percent MGNREGS fund from the villages account.
According to reports received, the oil tankers were latter given protection by the police and the CRPF personnel. The leaked oil tanker is either in the custody of the 5th Assam Rifles or in the Senapati police station. It is yet to confirm.
The incident occurred near Makhan at around 2:30 pm.
Reports further said all the vehicles have been escorted by the CRPF personnel but due to the long tailing of the vehicles, the bandh supporters managed to carry out their act. About 10 passenger buses from Dimapur also came along with the goods transporters but since they were moving ahead of the rest, these public vehicles were not affected.
Reports also added that windshields of several vehicles were damaged due to the stoning by the bandh supporters between Mao Gate and Maram.

It can be mentioned that on August 4, chairman of the Senapati Autonomous District Council (ADC) R.S Henry Hiilii had clarified that the ADC members will never deduct any part of the MGNREGS fund which is meant for the people.
However, Henry Hiilii had also cited the government order of 2010 that states, “As per the order issued by the commissioner of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RD & PR) on September 14, 2010, it has been clearly mentioned that 50% of the funds available under NREGS shall be provided to the Gram Panchayats or Village Authorities, 25% of the funds to the Zilla Parishads and District Councils and the remaining 25% of the funds to the line departments for implementation of the scheme/projects under NREGS guidelines,” claimed R.S Henry Hiilii. He then added that as far as the deduction and transferring is concerned.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/80-vehicles-damaged-in-attack-by-bandh-supporters/

Senapati, Aug 16 NNN: About 80 goods vehicles were stoned by bandh supporters between Mao Gate and Maram along the National Highway 2 (previously NH-39) this afternoon. One loaded oil tanker got leaked due to the stoning while another loaded oil tanker dashed into a drain.
The Senapati police have filed four FIRs against the bandh sponsor.
The Senapati District Chairmen/Secretaries Association has been imposing a 48-hour bandh since the midnight of August 15 in protest against the deduction of 25 percent MGNREGS fund from the villages account.
According to reports received, the oil tankers were latter given protection by the police and the CRPF personnel. The leaked oil tanker is either in the custody of the 5th Assam Rifles or in the Senapati police station. It is yet to confirm.
The incident occurred near Makhan at around 2:30 pm.
Reports further said all the vehicles have been escorted by the CRPF personnel but due to the long tailing of the vehicles, the bandh supporters managed to carry out their act. About 10 passenger buses from Dimapur also came along with the goods transporters but since they were moving ahead of the rest, these public vehicles were not affected.
Reports also added that windshields of several vehicles were damaged due to the stoning by the bandh supporters between Mao Gate and Maram.

It can be mentioned that on August 4, chairman of the Senapati Autonomous District Council (ADC) R.S Henry Hiilii had clarified that the ADC members will never deduct any part of the MGNREGS fund which is meant for the people.
However, Henry Hiilii had also cited the government order of 2010 that states, “As per the order issued by the commissioner of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RD & PR) on September 14, 2010, it has been clearly mentioned that 50% of the funds available under NREGS shall be provided to the Gram Panchayats or Village Authorities, 25% of the funds to the Zilla Parishads and District Councils and the remaining 25% of the funds to the line departments for implementation of the scheme/projects under NREGS guidelines,” claimed R.S Henry Hiilii. He then added that as far as the deduction and transferring is concerned.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/80-vehicles-damaged-in-attack-by-bandh-supporters/

JAC Irabanta to launch stir
The JAC formed in connection with the missing of I. Irabanta of Nongdam. AMUCO, HERICOUN, IPSA, UPF, students orgn. Warned the state and central govt. to release him.
Meeting the press at Manipur Press club today, Sanjay Sorokhaibam of AMESCO said, his missing has completed two months. So far Manipur Police don’t trace the kidnappers.
One cadre of NSCN(I/M) Winners was arrested on August 11, he also informed the gathering. He also appealed the NSCN (I/M) to release him. The govt. should take up necessary actions in this connection fails which various agitations will be launched.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/jac-irabanta-to-launch-stir-2/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Aug 14 : The 66th Independence day will be observed tomorrow. The main function will be held at 9.30 am at 1stBn MR. The Governor Gurbhachan Jagat said in a message, “We have been celebrating the Independence Day since the attainment of India’s Independence on August 15, 1947. While celebrating our Independence, we have to introspect on how far we have been able to uphold and promote the spirit of nationhood and its freedom as citizens of an independent country. The 15th of August reminds us of the pre-independence spirit and patriotism along with the unity and sacrifices made for the attainment of our freedom from the British yoke. It is worthwhile to recall that our freedom was won after supreme sacrifices by innumerable Indians at the altar of the long freedom struggle.For the last 65 years of our independence, India has made significant progress in all spheres and has been recognized as a prospective economic superpower. However, much more is still to be done in order to bring our country on par with developed countries. It is in this context that Manipur too should, as an important State of the country, contribute and partake of the opportunities that the changing times bestow on our country. We have to reject any differences which are impeding our progress. It should be our earnest and strong aspiration to achieve peace and progress in our State and contribute to human welfare. Today, we must work for both national coherence and emotional integrity and also for transmitting the great ideals for justice, equality and fellowship to the future generations.
As a nation, we should always be proud of our democracy and our commitment to peace, equality and social justice. The legacy of our freedom fighters must be preserved at all costs. On this day of rejoicing, we must all unitedly stand together in paying homage to our freedom fighters – both known and unknown – and redeem our pledge to utilize our national resources and the talented human resource to usher in a new economic order providing opportunities to all sections of our society. Let us also resolve to promote peace and harmony, narrow our differences and work together for the peace and progress of our State and the nation.
Maj Gen U K Gurung, YSM, IGAR (South) and All Ranks of Assam Rifles extend warm greetings and sincere goodwill to all the people of Manipur on the auspicious occasion of Independence Day. IGAR (South) also sends his earnest message of unity and understanding on this joyous occasion and wishes the people peace and prosperity.
892 personnel have been awarded police medals on the occasion of the Independence Day this year. President’s Police Medals for Gallantry have been awarded to 13 personnel, Police Medals for Gallantry to 113 personnel, President’s Police Medals for Distinguished service to 84 personnel and Police Medals for Meritorious Service have been awarded to 682 personnel.
28 personnel on the occasion of Independence Day, 2012 have also been awarded including President’s Correctional Service Medals for Distinguished Service to Three personnel and Correctional Service Medals for Meritorious Service to 25 personnel.
Police Medal for gallantry
Sarangthem Ibomcha Singh Dy. Superintendent of Police, Kh. Basanta Kumar Sub Inspector, Potsangbam Tarunkumar Singh Sub Inspector, Toijam Khogen Singh Sub Inspector, Khangembam Sunilkumar Singh Sub Inspector, Binoy Irom Jemadar
President’s Police Medal For Distinguished Service Independence Day-2012 Nongmaithem Ibohanbi Singh, Inspector of Police, Cid(sb), Vip Security Section, Police Medal For Meritorious Service Independence Day-2012
Bhadra Bhattarai, Havildar, 4th Indian Reserve Battalion, Laiphrakpam Ibotombi Singh, Havildar, Mptc, Pangei I/E PO Pangei, Heigrujam Kullachandra Singh, Superintendent of Police, Telecom, Mpto, N Chandrajini Singh, Subedar, 1st Bn, Manipur Rifles, Imphal.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/police-medals-for-13-police-personnel-august-15-reminds-us-of-pre-independence-spirit-and-patriotism-guv/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Aug 14 : Discovering the movement of UG cadres in Ward No.9, Moreh of Chandel district, troops of 9 Assam Rifles of 26 Sector under HQ IGAR (South) launched operation in the area and apprehended one PREPAK (Pro) cadre on 13 Aug 2012. The apprehendee was identified as SS L/Cpl Kshetrimayum Robi Singh alias Pakhanglakpa (45), s/o Kshetrimayum Tombi Singh, r/o Kakching, Thoubal dist. One .32 Pistol with magazines and two live round were recovered from the apprehendee who alongwith recoveries was handed over to Imphal West police station.
In yet another incident, troops of 28 Assam Rifles of 9 Sector under HQ IGAR(S) launched operation in Top Dusssera and Yaranmam Nomaiching Makhom on 13 Aug 12 resulting in recovery of five Chinese hand grenades, seven No.36 M hand grenades and three RPG bombs. The recovered items were handed over to Porompot Police station for further destruction.
Meanwhile, A team of ninth AR arrested a cadre of PREPAK (Pro) from Moreh Tata Sumo Parking on August 12.
The apprehendee was identified as Leishangthem Ranjit (30) Moreh ward No. 7. One point 32 pistol, seven live rounds were seized from his possession. He was handed over to Moreh PS.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/militants-nabbed-16/