Manipur Mail – Page 4

Opposition parties slam government on border issue

IMPHAL, Sept 23 MNS/NNN: The Manipur People’s Party today slammed the O Ibobi led Congress Government accusing it of taking Rs 5,08 lakh from the Centre in a deceitful manner to use in the upcoming 2014 Lok Sabha elections.
MPP president N Sovakiran alleged that the Congress Government of Manipur has recently taken Rs 5, 08 lakh from the Centre on the pretext of giving compensations to the villagers of Manipur’s Chandel district affected by Indo-Myanmar Border Fencing.
“But, the ruling Government will use this money in contesting the next Lok Sabha elections,” the MPP leader accused while addressing a joint meeting of non-Congress parties held at the Community Hall, Keishampat Lairembi here.
Contesting election by selling state’s border lands will invite hue and cry from the people and it is better that the Congress stop such a fraudulent move, he said.
The meet once again called upon both the state and Central Governments for an immediate halt to the current erection of fencing on Indo-Myanmar border and to redress the border issue by October next month.
It demanded that the new stilted fencing erected by Myanmar inside Haolenphai village in Manipur’s Chandel district be dismantled immediately.
The joint meeting was attended by leaders of MPP, Pangan Political Forum (PPF), Manipur state units of BJP, JD-U, NCP, CPI, CPI-M, JD-S, All India Forward Block (AIFB), Naga People’s Front (NPF), Naga People’s Party (NPP), Trinamool Congress, Seva Sena and Manipur State Congress Party (MSCP).
NPF general secretary Athon Abonmei said the Congress Governments of both the Centre and state have not taken any concrete step to resolve the three-month-old border issue of the two neighbours, leaving the people in utter dismay and confusion.
He alleged that the state Government is taking more serious on rice and kerosene than border lands and ridiculed the Food Security Act that the Congress Government is preparing to introduce in the state.
MI Khan, spokesman, PPF urged all the NGOs, other social organizations and political parties to visit New Delhi and gherao the Parliament over the border issue.
Saying that the Myanmar has not grabbed the border lands on Manipur side of Indo-Myanmar boundary, but these have been ceded by the state Government to the neighbour because of casualness, alleged Manipur BJP spokesman Y Nilamani.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/opposition-parties-slam-government-on-border-issue/

MIT students evicted taking shelter at hall

IMPHAL, Sep 23 NNN : Around 55 students of Manipur Institute of Technology, Takyelpat have taken shelter at a community hall in Tera Yengkhom Leirak here after the Principal in charge of the institute forced them to leave the hostel yesterday.
A total of 145 MIT students, including many from outside the state are now on stir for over a week demanding removal of the institute’s Principal in charge Th Kulachandra.
Yesterday, several students of the institute who were staging a sit-in protest on the demand at the MIT complex were injured when police used tear gas and lathi charged them.
Coordinating Committee for Development of NH-37 and its Surrounding Important Roads and Tera Yengkhom Leirak Development Committee are now looking after the pushed out MIT students since yesterday.
Tera Yengkhom Leirak Committee secretary Monoranjan urged the concerned authorities to take immediate steps to end the standoff so that the students can return to their hostel and resume normal classes.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mit-students-evicted-taking-shelter-at-hall/

Unsafe packaged drinking water

IMPHAL, Sep 23 NNN : Most of the packaged drinking water manufacturing units in Manipur have turned out to be dangerous as they produced hazardous products that could result in fatality.
T Brojendro Khaba, Deputy Food Safety Commissioner, Directorate of Health, told NNN unsafe packaged drinking water could claim life so the higher authority should look into it with seriousness.
Cases of toxic materials found in such bottled water have been continuously appeared in various local dailies since early part of the current year however nobody has ever tried to lodge a complaint in this regard to the Directorate till date.
He appealed to the public to come to the Directorate if any food item or packaged drinking water is found mixed up with poisonous particles, saying the Food Safety authority of Manipur Government has the exclusive right to ban such manufacturers after the state Government sends its proposal to the Directorate to this effect.
Earlier, media reports had revealed about containing of toxic particles in bottled drinking water.
Machineries used by these units are all given ISI recognition by the Bureau of Indian Standards, but it is doubtful that if these units are buying ISIs through bribing, he said.
Khaba also said these units in the state need to follow a long procedure to produce packaged drinking water and it is not known whether they are actually maintaining it.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/unsafe-packaged-drinking-water/

Mizoram to cooperate with neighboring States over security along boundary lines

AIZAWL, Sept 23 NNN : The meeting on border issue has agreed to carry out border patrolling in a frequent manner along the boundaries of Assam, Tripura and Manipur.
Mizoram Chief Secretary L. Tochhong and officials of the Assam Home department today held an interactive coordination meeting in Aizawl discussing over security and other related concerns in connection with the upcoming Mizoram assembly elections.
Assam representatives who came for the coordination meeting included Mahananda Hazarika, Jt. Secretary and DIG Binod Kumar, while, Ashwani Kumar, CEO, H. Lalengmawia, Jt. CEO, senior officers of Home Department and Mizoram Police, representatives of BSF and Assam Rifles represented Mizoram government.
Mizoram Chief Secretary L. Tochhong said in the meeting that the neighbouring states are crucial in ensuring peaceful elections in the forthcoming assembly elections in Mizoram. She expressed her hope that the help and support required from the neighbouring states on security concern would be fulfilled.
She also expressed her happiness over the prevailing peaceful relation between Mizoram and its neighbouring states.
The coordination meeting held today was in pursuance of the direction of the Election Commission of India (ECI) to organize coordination meeting on security concerns with neighboring three states – Assam, Manipur and Tripura which shall be part of preparation for the forthcoming Mizoram assembly elections.
Home Departments of Tripura and Manipur were expected to attend the meeting today but unable to do so due to inconvenience in flight services in the case of Manipur and in the case of Tripura, its Home Secretary had another important programme to attend.
Tripura Government, however, has communicated the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Mizoram in writing and assured its readiness to extend support to Mizoram regarding security concern as well as in other needs in the forthcoming Mizoram election.
The meeting today decided that the district administrations–deputy commissioners and SPs may be informed to hold as many coordination meetings as possible with their counterparts in the neighbouring states on security concern.

DoNER Minister lays foundation stone for Water Supply Scheme

AIZAWL, Sept 23: NNN Paban Singh Ghatowar, Union Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), who arrived today here in Aizawl for a two-day stay, laid the foundation stone for Aibawk Water Supply Scheme.
Laying the foundation stone for the water supply scheme, DoNER Minister Paban Singh Ghatowar congratulated the people of Aibawk for being selected for the scheme while other localities are also there in waiting. He expressed his hope that under the supervision of PHE Department, the work would be completed within stipulated timeframe.
The central government is caring much for the needs and progress of the people of Mizoram, the visiting Union Minister said, adding, DoNER Ministry has also been advised to take fast steps in this regard.
Under peace and tranquility, Mizoram is moving along the path of progress, said the DoNER Minister, and lauded the state government for carrying out different schemes successfully and profitably.
Highlighting the various steps taken so far and being taken by the DoNER Ministry for the progress of Mizoram, the Union Minister said plans are on for big projects to enhance power sufficiency. He mentioned that 100 crore rupees has been sanctioned by DoNER for
Tuirial Hydro Electric Project, and will also sanction another 200 crore, which will enhance power sufficiency and enable Mizoram to supply power even outside the State too.
The people of Mizoram are peace-loving and God-fearing people, commented the Union Minister, adding, Mizoram, under a strong state government, also continues to be most peaceful and progressing among others States in India.
Aibawk Water Supply Scheme will feed 3 villages- Aibawk, Sateek and Phulpui. Water will be drawn from Tuirivang River by about 33km long pipe, and 4 reservoirs will be constructed. Rs. 9.98 crore is estimated for the scheme and is expected to complete within 2 years time.
The visiting DoNER Minister is accompanied by V.B.Pathak, Joint Secretary, DoNER and Umakant, Director, DoNER.

Where the state is heading to?

Enhanced security measure is being considered in the back drop of series of bomb blasts and killing of migrant workers in the state capital. So far nobody has claimed responsibility for all that been perpetuated. Why these incidents happened? That needs to be discussed. Such type of incidents will continue to happen no matter whether security is strengthened or not. Even the Indian Parliament was attacked by the Mujahideen. Instances are not lacking. The perpetrators of such type of crime will always find the loopholes and strike at their sweet will. What is now required is making attempt to win the confidence and trust of the masses. No common men will go to police station and let out what they have in mind because they are apprehensive at the end they themselves will become the victims. The press fraternity is at the receiving end. Even the hawkers were threatened. Though no life attempt was made confusion prevails. Why should such type of incidents continue to happen? Manipur needs leaders with strong will power to cleanse the messes that have piled up everywhere. Such campaign should start from the top level. Fraudulent show of money power by the top level officials in grabbing land and also in constructing palatial buildings is the root cause of mushrooming of evils in the society. They give damn to the law of the land and indulge in doing what they think is beneficial to them. Even the elected representatives complain albeit secretly that they cannot face the haughtiness of top level bureaucrats. Bureaucrats flatly deny their request for extension of help to the needy people. All these bomb plants, killing of migrant workers reflect the angst and frustration of the youths. Highly educated and intelligent youths cannot dream of becoming a Government employee in Manipur. If they cannot garner up a few millions of rupees to fill the coffer of influential men their chances of stepping into Government is remote. Many sold away agricultural land to become SI or Jamadar. What can we expect from those who got the job through back door? No meaningful contribution will be made by them. When they are asked to remain vigilant, they will waste time dozing off. Therefore foot patrolling or enhanced security measure will yield no better result. What we need is transparency. Show it.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/where-the-state-is-heading-to/

No country can progress until it treats women respectfully: Shinde

New Delhi, Sep 23 (ANI): Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde on Monday said no country can progress unless they treat their women with respect.
Addressing the 16th Meeting of the National Integration Council here, Shinde said: “The first relates to the safety and security of women. As you all know, women not only constitute fifty percent of our population and have an equal role to play in the development of this country, but they also remain the main foundation of an egalitarian and dignified society. No country can progress unless they treat their women with respect.”
“Unfortunately, we continue to read about heinous crimes committed on our women. The statistics on crimes against women reveal an increasing trend in the last three years. The brutal rape and attack on a young girl in Delhi last year shocked the conscience of the nation,” he added.
Asserting that the Government of India took a major initiative to amend the criminal law to make the punishment for such offences more stringent, Shinde said: “The judiciary also took steps to fast track the prosecution of the criminals and the judgment in the matter was pronounced recently. We hope that this example will serve as a deterrent.”
“Nevertheless, we need to discuss what further action needs to be taken by the society so that we can deal with the root cause of discrimination and denigration of women. We will also need to change the attitude of the society. As more and more opportunities are seized by the young women of this country for their economic and social development in our growing economy, we will have to ensure that this does not lead to friction in the society,” he added.
Speaking on the issue of the continued discrimination against SC/STs in the country, Shinde said: “The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in India have been subjected to indignity, marginalization and neglect through ages. In spite of affirmative action provided for in the Constitution, the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes have still not been integrated fully into the society. On the other hand, they continue to be subjected to atrocities.”
“In the last three years, the statistics on the subject reveal an increasing trend in cases of atrocities committed against these classes. There is an attitude of indifference in even prosecuting the cases that have been registered under the stringent Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act,” he said.
“The disturbing fact is that the rate of conviction in these cases is very poor. Various pretexts are taken recourse to and justice denied. Unless those committing the atrocities are punished, there will be no deterrence for the people who perpetrate such crimes. This forum may like to discuss the hurdles that still act as barriers for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes to catch up with the rest of the society, live in a dignified manner and become equal partners in national development,” he added.

New political outfit floated in Mizoram

AIZAWL, Sept 22 NNN: A new political party has been floated called Zoramthar Duhtute (Beiseina Thar) even as Mizoram is set to go to assembly elerctions in two months’ time.Zoramthar
But leaders of this outfit do not want to call their group as ‘political party’. They said they are a group of people under the style and banner of Zoramthar Duhtute (Beiseina Thar) to save Mizoram.
Beiseina Thar said it has come up with a clear-cut plan to do away with the prevailing party politics by way of contesting in the assembly elections and thereby form a government that will be for the people.
They will put their best efforts to replace the political parties in the State that have ruled so far, accusing the latter as ruling along party line and individual preferences rather than for the larger public interest.
The interest group in the name of Zoramthar Duhtute (Beiseina Thar) Pawl has announced that they will contest in the upcoming Mizoram MLA election and would take every possible step to form a government that would belong to the people.
Chairman of Zoramthar Duhtute Pawl, SL Sailova, IAS (rtd) said, “What has been witnessed in the past 40 years is governance marked by preference to one’s kith and kins and members of political parties only. People got very little of their shares, and political parties are only thinking of how to win in the elections, nothing else. Because of this, we have come up.”
Gen Secy of Zoramthar Duhtute Pawl, Dr. Zodinpuia Pachuau also said, “We know very well that there is no hope with the governments we have had so far, and if we continue to have the same kind of government, we don’t believe that a good government will be formed. To fulfill the desire of the common people to have a good government, ‘Zoramthar Duhtute’ has been formed.” It is our main objective to let the people get their proper shares, to make them strong, and to save them from their miserable condition, Dr. Zodinpuia added.
In reply to media query as to whether they plan to form a new Political party, Dr. Zodinpuia said “We don’t have a plan to form a new Party. But our way of functioning will be like that of a party, and we shall also have candidates.”
Zoramthar Duhtute Pawl leaders also said that the Election Commission of India can accept the group as ‘unregistered party’, adding “We have not yet decided how many candidates we shall have in the forthcoming election. However, we expect to have at least 5 candidates so that we would be able to use ‘common symbol’.”
“We can come to agreement with anyone whether it is a political party or others, if they could agree with our objectives and principles” they added.
Sailova said, “Had the range of salary of the government servants lowered, and corruption detested, I don’t believe the State will experience such a severe financial crisis like the present.”
Informing that they will invite good individuals for their Candidates, SL Sailova added “if we don’t find one (like our want) we may just contest daring to lose”. He further added that their candidate will all sign oath of affirmation, and will be expected to give up if they don’t want to do their duty well.
SL Sailova, IAS (rtd) as chairman of the outfit, Lalngheta Sailo, IPS (rtd) as Vice Chairman, Zodinpuia Pachuau as General Secretary, Dr. Lalnunthara as Treasurer, Dr. Chawnglungmuana as Secretary and other members.
As announced by them, Zoramthar Duhtute Pawl is determined to fight for a new peoples’ government in the forthcoming 2013 Mizoram Legislative Assembly (MLA) elections. Leaders of the group also explained that they come to the fore with their common interests to form peoples’ government, not a party government.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/new-political-outfit-floated-in-mizoram/

UKLF will not tolerate those who harrass public leaders

Mail News Service
Imphal, Sep 22 : Kuki National Liberation Front (KNLF) surrendered to the state government and accordingly the home coning ceremony was held on the 9th September 2013 at 1st Bn. Manipur rifles, Imphal. Although the previous press statements of KNLF are contrary to their recent surrender ceremony, UKLF expressed its happiness for their joining the peace process. Indeed, the KNLF had time and again openly blamed SoO groups of Kuki UGs for joining the peace process and even dubbed them as traitors and betrayers but their action as of now is not in line with their previous statement. Anyway, accepting peace process is always good for all and UKLF appreciated them.
JM.Thadou, Info& Publicity Secy. UKLF said their present action of threatening social leaders of Chandel district like Kuki Pepoles Forum (KPF), Kuki Students Organization (KSO), Kuki Chief Association (KCA), Kuki Women Human Rights (KWHR) and Kuki Inpi Manipur(KIM) is much against to their acceptance of peace term.
It asked KNLF leadership to withdraw their action of threatening and harassing public immediately otherwise we (UKLF) will not remain a silent spectator. The UKLF believed and accepted that revolutionary groups are formed for the cause of the people and, hence, we shall be compelled to take up any step to protect and safeguard the public and restore peaceful atmosphere which is our primary duty.
UKLF also appealed to the state government (Home Deptt.) to look into the matter and do the needful before things goes out of hands.
On the day of their home coming ceremony , Chief Minister of Manipur, O Ibobi Singh clearly stated and laid down some dos and don’ts to be followed by the surrenderees but the KNLF started unruly actions just after hardly five days of the ceremony which is much against to their acceptance of peace with the government.

NCP wants better dealing on border issue

IMPHAL, Sept 22 NNN: The Manipur unit of NCP is not happy the way the government of India deals in connection with the Indo-Myanmar border issue. The NCP said issues pertaining to international boundaries should be dealt by the Union government but that is not the case here.
NCP legislator L Ibomcha Singh while talking to the reporters said it so happens here that the state government of Manipur needs to constantly press the Central government to bring a tangible solution regarding the missing or displaced border pillars and for proper demarcation of Indo-Myanmar border.
According to the NCP legislator, in the year 2002, he had raised in the state legislative assembly in connection with the missing border pillars and had sought clarifications from the state government. “In his reply, the chief minister had furnished that border pillar numbers 101, 66, 78 and 79 were found missing,” said L Ibomcha, but the reasons for the missing of the border pillars were not known by the state government that time. The NCP MLA then said to ascertain the facts, a joint survey team comprising representatives from India and Myanmar 11 years ago.
“Now, we are interested to know whether the reports of that joint survey team were submitted to the Union government,” demanded L Ibomcha. He also demanded to know as to what extent the state home department had pursued the matter to the Union home ministry.
According to L Ibomcha, the chief minister had informed assembly then that the state home department had apprised the matter relating to the border pillars missing to Surendrakumar Singh, the then joint secretary of Ministry of Home Affairs incharge of North East. The NCP legislator suggested that the outcome of that apprisal be made public.
L Ibomcha then suggested that advanced satellite imaging techniques with Global Positioning System (GPS) will be able to determine the exact border line.
Meanwhile, appealing all the poitical parties and civil society organisations to shed their differences and come forward in addressing the border issue. He also said all political party meeting will be convened in the near future to discuss the issue.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ncp-wants-better-dealing-on-border-issue/

Pot holes that deface

Fund starved PWD it seems has not been able to maintain the roads passing through the state capital. All roads are filled with pot holes. Just near Usha cinema hall at Paona bazaar the potholes almost block movement of vehicles. Half of the Paona bazaar road lay occupied by vehicles from dawn to dusk. Vehicles move on the western side of the road. At the said spot the vehicles cannot freely as the depth of the potholes is near two feet. Autos with lots of passengers face trouble in crossing the portion of the road if the vehicles parked at the eastern side turn out to be longer and bigger. The pot holes in the middle of the road at Waheng Leikai, which are also as big as pond invite fatal accident. If the two wheelers do not drive wisely and cautiously at the area where such pot holes have appeared, they will face instant death. Then the entry point at Palace gate is a hell on the road. Completely damaged road, which extends nearly 50 feet in length, gives deep jerk to the users of the road. The words uttered by the commuters when they pass such portion of the road cannot be printed in the news paper. Blasphemous words are uttered against the Government. If roads are repaired and kept in tip top condition and foods are available at cheaper rate as desired by the UPA Government at the centre there is no reason as to why the masses should not feel happy of having a popular Government they also say. Then again at Wangkhei side just near the entry point of Ningthem pukhri gravels pile up, which is not levelled. Accident will occur at this area also. Two wheelers unable to climb the portion of the road which has landscape of a small hill suddenly halt in the middle of the road. During the dry season when vehicles move fast it is likely two wheelers will get sudden push from backside. An amazing phenomenon too has also been detected both repairing and reappearance of the potholes go together. Hence the call for specialisation in repairing potholes. There should be separate wing in the PWD, whose sole duty should be to survey the roads, which are prone to frequent appearance of potholes. The area at Nityaipat chuthek near the traffic island is also prone to pot holes. It was repaired a few months back. Now the area is filled with pot holes. Whom do we blame, the engineer who cannot prescribe sand, stone and asphalt combination or contractor who makes attempt to make some gain by distorting the prescribed combination. Whatever the case may be the blame is put on the Government. Pay attention on pot holes.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/pot-holes-that-deface/

Justice Koteshwor releases book on land tenur

eMail News ServiceImphal, Sep 22 : A simple function in connection with the release of a book entitled “An introduction to land tenure in Manipur and the Manipur land revenue and land reforms act” was held at Sega road. Releasing the book Justice N. Koteshwor said, the book will be useful to the law students and also to the officials working in revenue section of the Government of Manipur. He appealed to all to respect law of the land.Retd. Chief Justice of Gauhati High court R. K. Manisana hailed the writer of book H.Jugeshwor, who is no more for the laborious task done in writing the book. Dean of Social Sciences Manipur University Elangbam Bijoykumar and Salatur Rehman Principal of the LMS Law college also spoke on the occasion.Radharani wife of the late writer also spoke and she appreciated all those who contributed generously in making the programme a success. K. Bipinchandra Sharma advocate gave the key note address.Dr. Sanjit Nepram gave the welcome address while the vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. H. Chandrakala daughter of the late writer.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/justice-koteshwor-releases-book-on-land-tenur/

NSS week observance from Sep 24

Mail News Service
Imphal, Sep 22 : The 24th September, 2013 is’ the 44th Foundation Day of the National Service Scheme (NSS). It is a DAY to be remembered and observed by all the NSS functionaries. All the NSS functionaries of the state are asked to observe the day making it mandatory. From this year onwards, the NSS Cell, Manipur University has decided to carry out a number of NSS related activities collaborating with a number of NSS functionaries of the State by observing NSS WEEK w.e.f.24th September-30th September. NSS matters, in some institutions of the state, are found to be neglected. Even some of the Programme Officers of the different NSS Units could not carry out NSS activities because of many reasons. They are found to be assigned additional responsibilities by the authority of the concerned Institute also other than
NSS. If we observe for a week, NSS Units can carry out some activities either of the day during the week. The significance of the NSS in the society needs to be made known to the student volunteers, community and adopted villages. During the Week, as such, NSS Units can do something for the betterment of the society. In fact there is no area in which NSS cannot be a part of it. Mass Tree Plantation as a part of the Mission GO GREEN, an Initiative of the NSS Cell,MU , Sanitation Programmes, Campus Cleaning, Basic Philosophy on NSS, Special Camping Programmes, Blood Donation Camp, Vivekananda Lecture Series, Life Skill Training, First Aid Training Camp, Awareness Programmes on Disaster Management, etc are expected to carry out by the NSS functionaries during the Week.
The service rendered by the NSS volunteers is not for the sake of volunteers only. NSS is a Social Service for the cause of the welfare of the society. Our NSS volunteers have to go a long way to bring peace, communal harmony, all round development in the society. The role of the youth of the country which constitute almost 40% of the total population of the same need to be rejuvenated in different aspects so as to contribute in the nation building process. This can be done by rendering community development service through a number of activities.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nss-week-observance-from-sep-24/

Kenyan envoy condoles death of two Indian nationals

New Delhi, Sept 22 (ANI): Kenyan High Commissioner to India Florence Imisa Weche on Sunday expressed her condolence to the Indian Government after two Indian nationals were killed in an attack at a Nairobi mall.
” It is a sad occasion and I also take this opportunity to offer my condolences to the Indian government for that loss,” she said.
Weche said that the Indian Government had not asked for any assistance from the Kenyan authorities but they would provide every possible support.
Two Indians, including an 8-year-old boy, were among 39 killed in a terrorist attack at Westgate shopping mall in Nairobi, with dozens of hostages still trapped inside.
While one of the victims 40-year-old Sridhar Natarajan was working with a pharma firm, the boy Paramshu Jain was the son of a manager of the local Bank of Baroda branch.
According to the Mirror, men armed with AK47s and grenades opened fire inside the Westgate Mall in the affluent Westlands area of Nairobi, and the Al Qaeda-linked militant group Al Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the attack.
In a televised address, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said 39 people had died in the attack and 150 were injured.
He said security forces were in the process of ‘neutralising the attackers and securing the mall’ in what was a ‘delicate’ operation but that those responsible would be hunted down and punished. Al-Shabaab in Twitter account said it had warned there would be consequences when Kenyan soldiers entered southern Somalia to fight the militants.
The militants from Somalia have claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it is retaliation for Kenya’s military intervention in Somalia.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/kenyan-envoy-condoles-death-of-two-indian-nationals/

Price rise of rice and faulty measures

As the price of rice continued to shoot days after days leaving the befuddled concerned department unable to find a way to control the price rise, a faulty idea crept in. Such measures of distribution of rice at crowded areas should have been taken when all systems have collapsed. The manner with rice is sold at crowded areas reflects complete absence of mechanism to reach out to the masses. Spiralling price hike can be checked when the supply chain is strengthened. Earlier system of selling Government controlled rice through rationing agents does better job. Where had gone our elected representatives? They have a role to play to improve the supply chain. The long queue that forms wherever rice is sold makes it appear as if Manipur has been ravaged either by war or natural calamities. As if starvation had engulfed the entire masses men and women with torn plastic bags stand for collection of rice. One hates to see such scene. What we do not try to remember is that there are thousands and thousands of people, who need rice yet they cannot stand in such beeline queue for one reason or the other. Under the scorched heat without any shade men and women form the long queue to get 10 kgs of rice. Children below 15 years of age are barred from standing in the queue, which needs to be clarified. Do not children eat rice? It is time Government make serious attempt to revive public distribution system. Where lies the necessity for all these road shows when the same task can be done by approved rationing agents. Frankly speaking such show blackens the face of the Government. The public memory is still fresh. The scene of thousands standing in queue for collection of petrol or diesel from oil depots haunts us which is yet fade out. Distribution of rice in the manner as is being done now will not solve rice scarcity in bazaar areas. Now rice is sold at bazaar areas at Rs 1200 per 50 kgs. During the corresponding period last year rice was sold as cheap as Rs 700 per the same weight. What made things to come to this stage. It says something has gone wrong somewhere. The attention of the highest authority is invited to look into the matter.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/price-rise-of-rice-and-faulty-measures/

Killing of Jonathan condemned

IMPHAL, Sept 21 NNN : The Tangkhu lShanao Long, Delhi (TSLD) said it is saddened to learn about the killing of Jonathan Kashung, who was not just a leader but a father of 4 children, a husband, a son and a brother.
Jonathan Kashung (49), one of the presidential candidates of Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), the apex body of the Tangkhul tribe, was abducted by unidentified armed men from Phungreitang area in Ukhrul town on September 13 at around 9:40 am apparently in connection with the TNL presidential election. Since then he was traceless.His decomposed body was found late September 17 evening at Tolloi Junction, around 4 km north-west of Ukhrul district headquarters.
“We wish to state that there is no rationality in claiming lives of people, no matter what charges and allegations are leveled against the person. We express our hurt and anger against such act of violence,” the TSLD said.
It also said that as women who have been striving to work for peace and justice we strongly condemn this senseless act and “we implore upon our people to help stop such in future so that our families and children can grow in a society free from fears”.
The TSLD then shares the grief of the family and express our deep condolence especially to his wife and children.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/killing-of-jonathan-condemned/

Moreh Court inaugurated

Imphal, Sept 21 MNS/NNN: The first ever Judicial Magistrate First Class/Civil Judge (Junior Division) at Moreh having video conferencing facility was inaugurated by Justice Abhay Manohar Sapre, Chief Justice, High Court of Manipur.
Justice Sapre made a speech during the inaugural function organised by Law and Legislative Affairs Department of Manipur Government. Sapre said the court has become the first of its kind in Manipur that has a video conferencing facility.
Today is a remarkable day in the history of judiciary system of Manipur, he said.
He said plans are afoot to establish such courts in every district of the state soon and hailed the state Government for setting up of an independent High Court.
Thoubal District and Sessions Judge Court was established on July 19 this year after the Manipur High Court was set up on March 23 of the same year, he mentioned, adding that again on September 14, the Bishnupur District Sessions Judge Court was inaugurated.
Now the Government is all set to open such courts for the districts of Senapati and Tamenglong, he informed.
He said the newly established court at the last town of the country Moreh in Chandel district, bordering Myanmar will certainly do good to the people.
The Chief Justice said that in a democratic country like India, maintaining the rule of law is quite necessary and at the same time the support of the general public is highly needed to make it complete.
All are equal in the eyes of law and that peace, harmony and prosperity prevail in a society where there is rule of law, Sapre said, adding establishing such courts in all the districts of the state will build up a peaceful society.
Justice N Kotiswar, Judge, High Court of Manipur, MLA D Korungthang, Chandel district Deputy Commissioner Th Chittaranjan, Autonomous District Council, Chandel, Khaidem Mani, president, All Manipur Bar Association (AMBA) and representatives of Hill Area Committee, Moreh were also present at the ceremony.
Advocate Khaidem Mani said the Judicial Magistrate First Class/Civil Judge (Junior Division), Moreh will deal with both criminal and civil cases.
Opening of this court will end the difficulties that had faced by the people of the Moreh town while approaching the courts at Chandel headquarters and Imphal.
Mani said that the new court at Moreh has been able to set up because of the initiative taken up by Justice Sapre and Chief Minister O Ibobi and appealed to Judges to execute their duties honestly and to make the people understand the real meaning of rule of law.
MLA D Korungthang lauded the state Government for opening the court at Moreh considering the importance of Moreh town.
He called upon the local public of the commercial hub of the state to extend cooperation to all the activities of the new court.
The MLA also urged the residents of the town not to indulge in mob justice but to act as per the established law courts.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/moreh-court-inaugurated/

48 hours strike called to protest killing of Jonathan

IMPHAL, Sept 21 NNN : The Southern Tangkhul Students’ Union (TAKL) or Southern Tangkhul Students Union while issuing a strong worded statement against the NSCN-IM on the murder of Jonathan Kashung, has announced today to call 48 hours ‘Tangkhul area’ bandh in condemnation.
TAKL said it it vehemently condemned the brutal killing of former Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) president Mr. Jonathan Kashung s/o late Shanteihui Kashung of Shingkap village after his abduction on September 13 by NSCN –IM.
According to the Tangkhul students’ body, Jonathan was a front-runner presidential candidate of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) election scheduled for September 18.
“The highly decomposed body was traced on the morning of the scheduled election, after repeated assurance by the abductors that he would be released safely. The family and his supporters were compelled to withdrew his candidature even after his dead, despite qualifying the screening. The manner in which he was killed and abandoned in the wilderness to rot by the NSCN(IM) is an extremely inhuman and heinous act. The NSCN (IM) which has been engaging in a peace talks with the government of India for the last 17 years is never expected to commit such a senseless crime against its own people, defeating its purpose of ushering peace and political solution. Killing a veteran public leader like Mr. Jonathan Kashung who has rendered selfless service to the Naga society, without any trial, sends a very terrorizing message to the public,” the TAKL fumed.
It then demands clarification with evidences of the charged allegations that Jonathan Kashung had received Rs 50 lakhs from Chief Minister, O Ibobi Singh and that he had served as a Chief Advisor for Manipur Naga Revolutionary Front (MNRF).
TAKL then appeals to the ‘chief election commissioner’, Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) to countermand and re-notify a fresh TNL Election 2013 since the candidature of Lt. Mr. Jonathan Kashung had been duly approved after screening following all required formalities. Lest public sentiments might aggravate to unprecedented outcomes, it cautioned.
“As a mark of public condemnation against such heinous crime, there will be a total bandh in Tangkhul inhabited area on September 24 and 25. TAKL appeals to all the Tangkhuls to extend their support and cooperation in condemning such injustice.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/48-hours-strike-called-to-protest-killing-of-jonathan/

Dental students against bandh

IMPHAL, Sept 21 NNN: Students of Dental College, Lamphel here today organised a sit-in protest at the college campus demanding all to exclude the medical institute from purview of any sort of bandh and strikes.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the demonstration, Prof Th Narendra Babu, vice-president, RIMS (Regional Institute of Medical Sciences) Teachers’ Association maintained that students of the Dental College will have to get a few classes since the Government allowed them admission very lately.
“Now they cannot miss a single class because chances are high that the syllabus may not be able to complete if bandh and strikes disturb them.”
Meanwhile, Prof Narendra Babu informed that an inquiry committee headed by RIMS Medical Superintendent Ch Arun has been constituted to look into the controversial death of Aheibam Bijeta Devi.
Bijeta, a 25-year-old woman, hailed from Lamshang bazaar Imphal West district, died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) shortly before she was to deliver her first baby on September 13.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/dental-students-against-bandh/

Imphal Ukhrul services suspended

IMPHAL, Sep 21 NNN : Imphal-Ukhrul passenger bus service has ceased from Saturday after the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) (Tangkhul Naga organization) allegedly issued threat to the bus owners over non-payment of monthly subscription.
Sources in Imphal-Ukhrul Bus Association said that every bus owner had been paying Rs 12,000 to TNL each month however it was stopped by the association sometime back after the Naga organization turned a blind eye over its request to ban service by other passenger vehicles along the route.
TNL had detained six passenger buses belonging to the association over non-payment of subscription on September 19, but luckily the drivers along with the vehicles somehow escaped from their clutches yesterday, they said.
Following the incident TNL has threatened the bus association to send back all the six drivers to their custody warning that no more passenger bus can ply on the road from today, the sources added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/imphal-ukhrul-services-suspended/