Tag: Editorial

The state Government has shown commitment to end drug menace in the state. All out efforts are being made to eliminate illegal drug trade, which is carried out every day. The statement made by the Home Minister Gaikhangam in the house yesterday is quite convincing. Manipur Government will leave no stone unturned to nab whoever, howsoever powerful they may be. Manipur will cease to be a haven for drug smugglers. A big nullah at Lilong was filled by the drug packets. The strips after removing tablets were thrown into the nullah. It means the smugglers had adopted a new modus operandi. Was it sold in liquid form or powder? Drug problem can be solved by blocking the entry of drugs to Manipur from other manufacturing units scattered in different parts of the country. How can it be made possible? This question haunts even the law enforcing agencies. A drug smuggler will be able to throw light how these drugs are brought into the state by air or by road. By keeping a sniffer dog the smuggling of drugs into the state by air can be checked. Because very few number of planes land in the state. Once the smugglers have felt the state police have made strip chase of drugs they will give up the habit of using aeroplane as conduit for transportation of the banned drugs. The possibility of bringing in drugs by bus or truck will also be not an easy task. Moreover public awareness has been created. Men and women have taken out rallies protesting against the smuggling of drugs into the state. Common people will never think of jumping into this illegal trade. They have realised the dangers that lie ahead. They know they will not be able to move out unscathed when caught by the law enforcing agencies. The manner with which a police commando team seized contraband drugs worth Rs 25 cores from Pallel has opened the eye of all. All are awake. Opposition parties too have been alerted. Government has shown the readiness to act. Nobody will be able to carry out the illegal trade as they did in the past. No matter whether the law of the land gives stringent punishment to the smugglers or not the task to cleanse the state of drugs will not be successful unless common masses extend cooperation to the law enforcing agencies. The situation now calls for everyone to act the role of informer. Anything that one considers is suspicious can be reported to the state police. While everyone is talking of the menace of drugs comparing it with nuclear bomb as it can completely wipe out a generation some are still thinking of making a good money out of the illegal trade. Who are these people? Do they know that the drugs that they are selling to Myanmar side will bounce back to Manipur in another refined form gaining a title party drug? Opposition leaders’ speech in the House on the issue of drug smuggling is also thought provoking. Manipur will become a drug free land in the near future. Ruling party’s action, opposition’s alertness and awareness of the masses plus supportive media’s role will help root out the menace of drugs from Manipur.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/drug-menace-will-uprooted/

The speech made by the Governor of Manipur Gurbachan Jagat reflects the firm stand taken by the Government of the state to fight for protection of territorial integrity of the state. Manipur is safe in the hands of the men in power. Moreover all the political parties of all hues have made open declaration not to allow secession of any part of Manipur. The question of Manipur breaking up does not arise. This message has been sent out, which is loud. But some elements are turning deaf ear to such message. So they play with the idea of creating homeland within Manipur. The appeal made by the Governor to insurgents to eschew violence is also timely. All these bomb blasts that have occurred here and there on different occasions end up maiming the innocent people. Many had fallen as victims of the bomb blasts. Large number of youths had laid down arms before the Government. Unless the surrendered insurgents are properly rehabilitated the others who are continuing to wage war against the establishment with arms will not come back. Rs 4000 stipend per month plus Rs 2.5 fixed deposit in the name of each and every surrendered extremist may to some extent support livelihood. The Government has also in mind for providing vocational training to those who have laid down arms. Surrender policy though it has been able to attract small fishes the big fishes cannot be attracted. How can they be brought to the negotiating table? This is a mind boggling question. The answer is yet to be found. The think tank of the Government at the centre has in its mind set, the initiative for bringing rebel leaders on the negotiating table must start only when the rebel leaders have grown old. Rebel leaders are still too young. They are in their early fifties or sixties. They have adjusted to the jungle life. They are not thinking of retiring that is known from reading the statements issued by the rebel leaders on the occasion of anniversary foundation day of the rebel organisations. The Union Government brought Laldenga of Mizoram and Isak Chisi Swu and Muivah of NSCN to the negotiating table. If Swu and Muivah did not stick to their useless demand of amalgamation of all Naga inhabited areas Nagaland would have reaped the fruit of peace talk. Precious time had been wasted in discussing something that will never materialise. Almost all the communities below one crore population are protected by the constitution of India. Manipuri diaspora does not reach even three million. Cannot they be given protection in the same manner SC/ST are getting protection from the constitution of India? Manipuris cannot make through in the UPSC conducted examination, reason being it is branded as general class. State Government can demand some quota for the state and its people in the selection of IAS or IPS if our poor people cannot be granted constitutional protection. Because IAS and IPS are considered as ambassadors of development. A simple survey will reveal very few Meiteis are in the list of IAS or IPS. Let us see what comes out after making this demand of constitutional protection.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/there-should-be-separate-quota-for-manipuris/

PWD Minister Kh. Ratankumar’s statement to develop entire state highway and other important roads in the state capital is soothing to ear. He mentioned the names of the roads that will receive immediate attention of the state Government. His statement reflects all that the state Government has in mind. The Government is paying the thrust to bettering road connectivity. Moreover these smouldering dusts mar the prestige of the state. Because the road is the face of the state, which cannot be spoilt. Residents at Lamphel areas expressed happiness when a team led by the Works Minister visited the area to see the progress of the road development works done at Lamphel areas. They said the suffocation caused by dusts will be eased. The residents at other areas where the Works Minister visited too made the similar expression. Having heard their comment and one knows the expectations the masses have from the Government. They want the Government to focus on road, the rests are secondary. Then the other problems like drinking water scarcity and power suplly can be taken up. Manipur has set on the path of development. The state Government has enough fund for taking up various programmes for the people of the state. Better days are ahead. The young ministers are competing in performing better works. If they cannot not perform their duties they must make way for others to come in. As the ministers compete in carrying out their duties they must keep in mind the educated unemployed youths. Thousands of educated youths are living in wilderness not knowing what to do? If thousands are applying for constables’ job there are thousand others, who hate to join active service. They look for other service and contract work. The Government has not created jobs for them. The major burden of an elected Government is the creation of jobs. Nevertheless if jobs are not created social turmoil and restlessness will be caused. Educated youths will be forced to opt for a way to enable themselves stand on their own feet. They must feel the happiness of having a Government that shows care for the hapless lots. In the past educated unemployed youths were granted financial assistance to enable them start business suited to them. Such policy or schemes are not heard these days. Initiative for extending financial assistance to the educated unemployed youths must come from the concerned department. It seems the concerned department is preoccupied with the other activities like development of Moreh as a new town. We all agree the new township at Moreh will create jobs for hundreds of persons. Let the educated youths reap the benefits of having world class market at Moreh. There may be manufacturing units at the new township being opened. The two day workshop held at Imphal might have evolved strategy where the focus is to be paid in the development of a new town at Moreh. Let us make Manipur a prosperous state. Everyone has a role to play to achieve this goal. Our young Ministers have created new hope. Manipur will reach the target it has set.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/new-hope-created/

A massive thrust is given by the state Government in the improvement of power, road communication and infrastructure. A 400 Kv line will connect Imphal with the gas based power supply unit in Tripura. Jiri Tupul rail line will be completed by 2016. Rail service, when it is extended up to Imphal than to Moreh, will change the whole concept of transportation. The prices of essential commodities will come down. The prices of construction materials too will come down. There in Bihar the price of a bag of cement is below Rs 300 but here in Manipur it is sold at Rs 400 per bag. Then there is also a huge gulf of differences in the prices of iron, corrugated sheets and other materials. Manipur having been declared as the gate way to ASEAN countries will see hectic commercial activities. The benefits will be reaped by the people of the state. If the people in Singapore have reaped benefits after it has become a centre for commercial activities there is no reason why Manipuris should not get similar benefits. Roads communication will better. The state Government has also taken up ambitious plan to upgrade Imphal airport to international level. 700 acres of land have been acquired after much persuasion and erection of walls had been done. All these are changes brought by time albeit with the blessings of the supportive Government at the centre. The people have reaped the benefits of having a stable Government in Manipur. More programmes are on the anvil. Moreh border town will receive a face lift. A well equipped township is coming up at Moreh and land for the purpose too has been identified. Central Government representatives had visited the border town repeatedly and important data collected for development of a new township at the border. Goods sold at the town will be duty free. After the development of the border town lots of tourists will visit Manipur for buying goods, which will be available at cheaper rate. All these are the policies of the Union Government. Rajiv Gandhi former Prime Minister had in mind the border state like Manipur can attract tourists from across the country after developing the border town as business centre. The dreams are slowly turning into reality. Manipur will become one of the richest states of the country getting five figure crores from tourism annually. If Kerela, Goa can survive with income from tourism Manipur cannot lag behind. But the question being asked is are we prepared to adjust to the fast changes that may happen in the very near future. The roads passing through the state capital are narrow. Traffic jams have become a regular feature. Steps need to be taken up on war footing to divert the national highway from the crowded areas. Traffic congestion at Kanglapat road can be avoided after the national highway had been diverted. The need for constructing more fly over has also arisen. Road crossing at Kwakeithel, Keishampat and Nityaipat chuthek depict horrible scene every day. Addition of fly overs at the above mentioned areas will enable smooth flow of vehicles. More need to be done. Let us encourage our Government to take up more developmental programmes.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/all-these-developmental-programmes-are-for-people-of-manipur/

The whole world will hear the voice of the lone fighter from Manipur. Irom Chanu Sharmila is in Delhi as she is required to present before a court in Delhi. She has been fasting demanding lifting of armed forces special powers act from Manipur. The lone dissenter’s voice is becoming louder. She had been honoured with various international awards in recognition of her courage and will power. She is unrelenting. She has expressed the confidence that the Union Government will repeal the act. If the Union Government refuses to act as per her wishes a negative message will be sent. Moreover the question is being asked why Manipur in particular and NE at large should be reduced to receptacle of such deadly, diabolic and useless act when other states having similar insurgency or terrorist related problems do not see imposition of such act. Just recently two powerful bomb blasts rocked Hyderabad killing large number of people and injuring three figures. It could not be ascertained who were behind the bomb blast. But Andhra Pradesh was not brought under the AFSPA. A commission too had been formed in the past that recommended softening of the act. It is said Indian army is insisting that the act should remain where it is. But India is a democratic country if the Government cannot act as per the wishes and expectation of the masses where the sovereignty of the people lies. This question was asked by Sharmila. Manipur being a border state will require the service of the Indian army to check intrusion of unwanted elements from the other side of the boundary. Army can be scattered all along the border areas, where it is considered problematic. They can stay at the town area also but minus AFSPA. The state police is performing wonderful job in dealing with insurgency. They do not say they require an act to cover their operation against the elements detrimental to the well being of the society. AFSPA cannot provide security to the wrong doers. But the Indian army is insisting on imposition of this useless act. Show the generosity and decide to go together with the masses. AFSPA has acted as a thorn in the heart. It needs to be removed. Should the Government wait for the Indian army to dictate the time has come for removing the thorn. That will mean, biggest democracy in the world functioning under the army. India is different from Pakistan and Myanmar where military have their sway be it in laying down policies and functioning of the Government. Consider Sharmila’s demand seriously and attempt to fulfil her wishes. We want to see the return of the day when she sits together with her family members and relish the food with her own hand. When will that day arrive, this question is being asked. We are confident the Union Government will hear the feeble voice of the defiant lady, which has become louder and lift the act. Delay in lifting the act will be dangerous. Manipur people are closely monitoring Sharmila’s Delhi visit. Let she return home with beaming smile on lip.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/sharmila-in-delhi/

All these drug related problems can be solved when there is collective will of all concerned. The Government is expected to act. Similarly opposition parties should show the alertness to check, who else are involved in this illegal trade. Then there should be awareness among the common people. Here arises the question what role media should play to create awareness among the common masses. Awareness will come when the common masses understand the dangers that lie ahead when they understand what their leaders are doing is not acceptable. Well one army officer, who gets six figures as monthly pay could be dragged into the illegal trade. Then there is the story of minister’s family joining this illegal trade. The common people wonder what is happening around us. The fall out of all these wrong doings by higher up is that the VIPs will be checked while leaving common masses free. If you as a man find time to visit religious places what you will notice is that while young male are set free the young girls with bags will be checked. After all it is their creation. They had acted as porter for carrying deadly bombs in their bags. On Janmasthami day all male folk were set free while keeping the women including young girls who came with flowers were checked. It was a pitiable scene. The question is now put to you why you agreed to act in defiance of your own principle. The main issue now is drug. This problem will be solved. Because everybody has shown their willingness to fight against the menace of drugs. Opposition has shown the alertness just as the Government has shown the willingness to act against those involved in the deadly business. Better days are ahead. Everybody has realised the harmful effects of drugs. In the past when Manipur roads were used as lackadaisical routes for supplying drugs to different parts of the world the youths were carriers of all forms diseases. Realisation dawned quickly. Though many lives were claimed by deadly disease, many youths were saved. It happened one fine morning a young man, who is no more now, came to me and asked why it happened his loose motion did not stop even after taking pills. I told him to check his blood. Alas it turned out AIDS. He died within weeks of cheeking his blood. But he was a young man and he had no wife. If he had one the disease would be handed down to his off spring. The problem facing the state has to be seen from different angles. All that has happened in the past few weeks has made all of us realised who is involved in this illegal trade. Therefore massive efforts should be made to check the wrong doing and also to make Manipur a heaven on earth. Everyone has to contribute something. The little you do for the betterment of the society will be known when you show the readiness to do something for the society.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/do-something-for-the-society-the-results-will-be-known/

Imphal Municipal Council’s cleanliness drive needs to be supported by all for it aims at cleaning Nambul River. The importance of Nambul River need not be stressed again and again. When Imphal is in spate the only river that will drain away flood water is Nambul River. Hence Nambul was included in the list of major rivers of the country. The Union Government shows generosity when the state Government seeks fund for saving Nambul river. The Union Government shows readiness to infuse fund for construction of retaining walls along the course of the river. Under the Brahmaputra project a huge amount of money was spent in the construction of the retaining walls. More will come after the state Government have sent utilisation certificate to the Ministry concerned. Regrettably the water of the river has become unusable as human refuses are dumped into the river by the river side dweller. The human refuses are then taken down by the river for final deposition at the Loktak lake. The lake is now filled by filthy materials that include plastic bags. In the very near future the lake too may vanish unless massive effort is made to deepen the lake. Like other thinking men those in Imphal Municipal council understand that serious attention should be given to removing dirt and garbage from Imphal area and dump at low lying area, which has been identified as dumping site by the Government. The warning that had been sounded by the Municipal council authority against non registration of household and shops with the NGOs engaged in the collection of the refuses from different parts of the state capital indicates that large number of citizens in the state capital are still refusing to register with the NGOs. This is not a good trend. All should come out voluntarily and register with the NGOs. In doing so they can consider themselves a part of the save river water campaign. It is shame we cannot protect the river running in our midst very near our home. Moreover the absence of water bodies in the crowded areas will increase dependence on river water for multiple uses. The drive for enrolment should start from Khwairamband bazaar areas where every shop throws out more refuses than they sell. Dirts pile up in front of shops. Such types of dirts are not to be seen in other metropolitan cities of the country. A lesson can be learnt from them. An official of the council can be sent to such metropolitan cities to learn the art of managing with the dirt. Whatever the case may be why we should wait for someone to dictate on how to throw away the dirts and refuses from our home. Vehicles are running in every lane and by-lane for carrying away the refuses away from your home. They will happily oblige to do the service because they get something out of their humanitarian service. Enrol from today and feel the happiness of being a part of the cleanliness drive. Since the garbage collection campaign was started one or two decades back by the NGOs the Nambul river water has become little bit cleaner even during the dry season. The drive must continue.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/imphal-cleanliness-drive/

The results of the elections held in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura revealed a confusing trend. It went against the expectation of the poll analysts. Congress party was expected to return to power with resounding success in Meghalaya. But it could not get the magic figure of 30 plus in the 60 member house. While in Tripura the party received a drubbing from the ruling party Left Front. But the people of Nagaland will regret putting NPF continuously for three terms. !0 years were wasted and another five years term too will be wasted without doing anything as it remains concerning only the Naga problem. A problem, which could not be solved in the last years, will remain unsolved in the next five years also. Because the Union Government does not have clear cut idea how this problem can be solved. The Union Government made frantic efforts to find logical solution to the Naga issue. It sought the help and suggestion from Manipur Government to make Nagas in Nagaland happy. The hardened stand taken by Manipur CM O. Ibobi dampened the spirit of all sundry in Nagaland. How can Manipur’s land be sacrificed to make the people in other state happy? “Do not create a fresh problem in solving another problem” said Ibobi to the central leaders of Congress (I). No matter whether NPF returns to power for third term or not Manipur will remain intact. The Union Government understands political consciousness of the people of Manipur. If Nagas in Nagaland think their demand can be achieved by keeping Rio Government for another term, the voters in Manipur had done that in advance. When Ibobi Government was installed for three terms continuously a message was sent to all, who matter that he has been given mandate to fight for protection of territorial integrity of the state. Ibobi’s stand is really serious; he will not allow disintegration of Manipur as long as he is Chief Minister of Ibobi. He is the leader of the hour. But the next five years will be a critical period for Manipur. Rio had even branded Manipur CM as enemies of Nagas. In the next five years he may resort to dirty politics. He may even instigate his party cadres to resort to road blockade to create restlessness in Manipur. When a truck from Manipur accidentally hit someone in Nagaland no attempt was made by Nagaland Government to solve the follow up crisis until Manipur Government intervened. A similar problem happened in Manipur involving a driver from Nagaland but it was solved by Manipur Government without waiting for help from the neighbouring state. That shows the difference between two Governments. Manipur is different from other states in NE region. Union Government representatives had confided to some of the cabinet Ministers from Manipur that Union Government keeps Manipur at a different level little above some of the states in NE region. They say Manipur cannot behave like these states. NPF Government in Nagaland is warned against playing communal politics. Rio might have learnt a lesson or two from the previous two terms. If he carries out administration keeping the interest of all people Nagaland will reap the benefit of keeping a stable Government.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/npf-must-change-the-attitude-shown-to-neighbouring-state/

Abnormal things always happen in Manipur. When heroin number four was available abundantly at least 10 youths in every Leikai resorted to deadly powder. All of sudden the memory of Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent has been revived. No wonder big shots and their family members contributed to reviving this memory. Involvement of big shots in the illegal trade of exporting intoxicating drugs to neighbouring foreign country using porous border Manipur share with Myanmar indicates this must be a very lucrative business. Yet none knows how much one can gain by spending a few lakhs of rupees on the contraband drugs. The police personnel, who have quizzed those involved in the illegal trade will be able to throw light how much one can make out of the illegal trade. There will be lots of stories that will be interesting to know. How do they establish contact with the smugglers on the other side of the boundary and how the drugs are smuggled out? Like the scientists, who conceal their findings police keep the secret between the teeth and the mouth. But journalists are different. They are habituated to disclosing everything they know. If the seizure was made by reporters they would have narrated everything they know from the day the drug was loaded to the day it was seized. In between there will be story about how it was brought to Manipur by air or by bus. It is a long process. Everything will be interesting to know. If one makes the disclosure blow by blow account of how it was finally packed in Imphal for the final transportation to Myanmar the story will be like a hot cake. Everyone in Manipur will like to read such story. Will the story end at Pallel, where the seizure was made. Will illegal trade on drug end with this episode? It is likely to end here. It will take another four or five years to revive this illegal trade. Now instructions had been sounded to check every vehicle including those used by VIPs moving towards Moreh and also those coming from Moreh. In the past simple women could move freely, leisurely and merrily but since some of them acted as courier using their bags in carrying deadly bombs they have been heavily scanned and checked even on the day of religious congregation. Now VIPs too will be checked on the road in the same manner one is x-rayed while entering airport tarmac. This will be abnormal activities something not to be seen in any parts of the world. But this is not the creation of simple and lay men. Big shots give damn to something that simple men are scary about. A simple man cannot even think of doing such business let alone carrying them to Myanmar. Unfortunately small traders, who bring some chappal and T shirts, are checked on the high way road between Moreh and Imphal while leaving big shots free. This incident has turned out eye opener. The small time business men will enjoy the pleasure of doing their business. Because the focus now will be on big shots. Enjoy the trip to Moreh.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/now-the-focus-will-be-on-vips/

Rainy season is still far away. As expected drinking water scarcity has occurred. Major rivers too have become shallower as the water level has gone down low. Water scarcity will hit all irrespective of where one lives. Almost all the scantily preserved water bodies will dry up. Drinking water scarcity continues to hit all yet we are not learning the need for preserving more water bodies. The Government decision to dig a big pond at Lamphel will go a long way not only in preserving flood water but also in protecting the ecology at Imphal areas. Water preserved at such pond can be used in feeding water reservoirs scattered here and there. During the rainy season flood water inundates low lying areas at Uripok. When the Nambul River is in spate the culvert at Shamushang is closed down to block entry of flood water at Lamphel areas. If there is a big lake like pond the excess water can be stored for use during the dry season. Every district headquarters be it at hills or valley must have large water reservoir. The state Government must take it up as a policy to dig out huge pond at the area, which cannot be used either for construction of building or cultivation. Because in future the demand for water will increase manifold. One decade back Singda could supply enough water to the water supply schemes scattered at different areas of the state capital. Now it is almost dry. If we have felt problem now it will be greater in future. Keeping the future in view steps have to be taken to preserve more water bodies to store adequate water to meet the growing demand for water. Water should be stored at source. That will be less expensive than constructing multi crore dam along the course of the river. Pitiable scene is seen at different areas of Imphal East and West. The river side dwellers lay their own pipe all along the road side and water is pulled up from river using water pump. Then the water is stored in pond for drinking. At Tera in Imphal west young men are seen carrying jerry cans on the two wheelers to collect drinking water from the areas where tap water is available. Such scene is ominous and shameful. We have hills and we have rivers that run near every locality. Yet the same water cannot be used. It reflects dearth of ideas in the minds of those at the helms of affairs about how to use river water. But some of the engineers of the PHED have become millionaires. They have bought land and buildings worth crores of rupees. Does not it sound funny? With a few thousands pay can they buy such costly land and building. Surely secret dealing naturally. Our engineers have ceased to play the role of advisers. If they do not advise our executive how will the latter know about the methods to be adopted to ensure regular supply of drinking water to the consumers? It is time engineers of the concerned department are pulled up and assigned the task of evolving strategy for storing rain water and also for giving such water to the consumers.

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

As the indefinite blockade on national high way called by Kuki State Demand Committee begins the hardship is felt. Long queue was seen in front of oil depots even before the onset of the agitation. Panic buying has started. Festive mood of spring season has been shattered. Moreover February and March are marriage season. Petroleum products will be the rarest item. But the season demands availability of petrol and diesel in huge quantity. Large numbers of vehicles are used in the Manipur style of marriage. The greatest festival of Manipuri “Yaoshang” is also knocking at the door. Wait and watch approach method though successful in the past in dealing with such form of agitation cannot be applied now. If such agitation is called during July or August it will not cause much problem. Because during autumn season no festival is conducted. This agitation is really untimed. The situation prevailing now calls for drastic action to bring the strikers to the negotiating table. State Government can summon Kuki leaders for holding threadbare discussion over the matter. They can be told boldly the demand can never be fulfilled. Because Manipur belongs to all communities. No piece of land can be carved out of our tiny state. If Nagas’ demand for amalgamation of all Naga inhabited areas cannot be met how can Kukis’ demand for separate homeland be given. Tell the agitationists to stop floating on the false dream. When the agitation called by a civil organisation to protest against the molestation of a film actor and ill-treatment meted to out other artistes who attempted to rescue the female actor turned ugly with all hell breaking loose, rebel organisation intervened and the situation was saved. That agitation exposed thoughtlessly called bandh threatens to tear even the social fabric. Even the scribes were attacked and their vehicles stoned. Who can advise the Kuki State Demand Committee to abandon the path they have adopted and switch over to other form of agitation? Agitation launched peacefully sends loud message. Irom Chanu Sharmila Chanu’s agitation “fast unto death agitation” rocked the mind set of those at the helms of affairs in Delhi. They are considering to find a way for softening the deadly and diabolic armed forces special powers act. The committee can single out some one among them to resort to peaceful agitation. That will be effective. Road blockade though it appears resounding success initially will end up without getting anything. The apex court had given a standing order to defy bandh or blockade on the national highway. Such form of agitation threatens to strangulate the most hapless people. The hand to mouth people will be the victim of the agitation. The rich people had already piled up all that will be required during the bandh period. Barrels filled with petrol and diesel too had been kept for use during the same period. Those who cannot buy even two or three litres of petrol will be seen standing forming long queue. The prices of other essential commodities will shoot up. Tighten the belt, gloomy days are ahead. Use petrol and diesel wisely and sensively. Eat little. It is sad we are going to land in a very ugly situation.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/peaceful-agitation-sends-louder-message/

As the demand for creation of separate homeland within the state of Manipur hots up the heart begins to boil. Restlessness has been created and normal life has been thrown out of gear. One is confused. Why such demand comes up in a tiny state like Manipur. Can this demand be met? There is understanding among all to safeguard territorial integrity of Manipur. We feel sad Manipur has been reduced to a plaything by different communities. Demands can be made, that is the democratic rights of all people living in the state. When one makes a demand one must weigh the practicability aspect. Because Manipur will never be fragmented; this has been told again and again by the Union Government. Leaders of all the political parties have also said that. Yet some section of the people belonging to different communities play with the issue again and again. If one has an ear one will hear what these central leaders are saying. Central leaders are saying they will make all out efforts to protect territorial integrity of Manipur. If one has eye, one would have surely seen young and women dying for protection of Manipur’s boundary. If there can be no extension of Greater Nagaland into the state of Manipur how can there be a separate Kuki homeland within the state of Manipur. June great uprising that happened sacrificing 18 lives was for protection of territorial integrity of the state. All those incidents appear in front of our eyes when certain section of people demand separate homeland. Manipur belongs to all communities. Every community has their share in this land. Stop dreaming. The map released by the demand committee claiming almost 80 percent of lands as kuki areas confuse the already confounded mind. Manipur kings fought several wars, all were for protecting the boundary of the land. History tells that. Future generation will not pardon the present generation if we allow fragmentation of Manipur. Nothing wrong in telling the agitationists not to put up such irresponsible demand. Time is precious. Conserve energy to fight for a better cause that will be acceptable to all. Kukis can demand for development of their culture and language. Nagas too can make similar demand. But the agitation for demanding homeland is wastage of time and energy. There will be lots of hurdles in fulfilling the demand. Let us give peace a chance. It is time the Government of Manipur rejects outright the demand of the agitating section saying the demand cannot be fulfilled. The leaders of the Kuki state demand committee have been advised not to use high way as weapon to reach their message within the belt of hearing of those at the helm of affairs. If the leaders are serious about their demand they must learn a lesson from those demanding Telengana state within Andhra Pradesh. Those demanding separate state do not resort to road blockade or economic blockade. Something needs to be learnt from them. The Union Government is also considering creation of Telengana state. The time and energy wasted in making irresponsible demand could have been used in doing other better job.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/separate-homeland/

Education Minister M. Okendro received appreciation continuously for two days one for declaring release of pending pays of all the Government teachers and another for establishing separate directorate for Manipuri language. Earlier he had received kudos for saying within three years Government schools will be in competition with the private schools. The students who receive home support go to private schools and those who have nothing go to Government schools. The difference has to be there. Young students pursuing education without having anything cannot be expected to do well in his pursuit. Moreover Government teachers neglect their duties. They draw pay without teaching students. There are large numbers of teachers in every locality, who get pay without going to schools. When the Minister said the Government schools will be in competition with the private schools he must be having some ideas as to how these shirking teachers could be utilised in their job. The entire people will be with him when he attempts to streamline the functioning of the Government schools. Because poor parents cannot afford the luxury of sending their young children to the costly private schools. School education has been heavily commercialised. Owners have become millionaires. Manipur is a funny state even the very poor family sends their children to the private schools. The government decision to release pending pays was soothing to the ears of the teachers. This morning they talked about the pay only. Was he speaking for the sake of speaking, they ask each other. Okendro is different he takes up ministerial job with a conviction and commitment to change the department he has taken care of. Establishment of Manipuri language directorate has happened during his time. The previous Ministers wasted precious time least bothering about the language, which got the berth it deserved in the Indian constitution 20 years back. When Manipuri was included in the 8th schedule during Narasimha Rao period in 1992 Manipuris had upbeat mood hoping the language would be developed at a fast pace. But it remained stagnant. The question was asked why the change was not taking place. Now we have known and we have found the answer. We are not doing anything for the development of our language. The establishment of the separate directorate will pave way for speedy development of not only Manipuri language but also all the major tribal dialects spoken in Manipur. Financial aid can be extended to do research on Manipuri language. Writers can be given assistance to write more biographies of the great personalities born and brought up in Manipur. It will be interesting to read biographies of noted comedians, Oinam Babu, Chaoba and Mayang Imphal Tombi. The state had produced great politicians. Their biographies will also be interesting to read. Similarly the books written on king of melody Pahari and Khun Joykumar will be prized addition to the book case. Minister Okendro deserves appreciation from all for making bold decision to bring a change in certain sector, which was kept neglected for prolonged period of time. Manning education department is a challenging job. Go for fulfilment of the mission without wavering. Because a mission cannot fail. You will succeed.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/appreciation-galore/

Congress Government as it decides to hand over drug seizure case to the CBI for thorough and conclusive investigation indicates it does not intend to protect the unknown owner of the drugs seized from Imphal airport. The state Government even appealed to the Civil Aviation ministry to take strict measures to ensure that aeroplane is not used by smugglers for carrying contraband drugs. Earlier Manipuri youths used heroine number four. In the past the powder was smuggled into the state through the porous border areas. The lackadaisical routes of the state in particular and the NE region as a whole were used for exporting the powder, which were available abundantly then to other neighbouring countries. Like the animal, which faced extinction, Manipuri youths almost crawled, the face sunken deep like the skull, could not move properly. Drug addicts indulged in thieving. There were lots of thieves in the past. Nothing could be kept outside the house. Even the mother’s phanek was stolen for puffing or injecting a small piece of heroine number four. Small babies wearing gold ear rings were done to death by the addicts. That situation has gone now. Yet many young boys are resorting to tablets, which are sold clandestinely at different areas of the state. These sellers cannot be caught. Their modus operandi too cannot be known as no serious attempt is made by the law enforcing agencies to arrest the drug paddlers. The state Government has now realised that the future generation cannot be left at the mercy of the pitiless paddlers. Now serious attempt is being made to arrest the king pin. Investigation by the CBI will expose the nexus if any between the high and the low in this illegal trade. The amount of money involved in this trade is really big, which works out to eight figures. Can petty thieves manage such a huge amount of money? Surely the illegal business might have been done by the big shots. It seems the state police are handicapped to touch the gang involved in this trade. Moreover the state police have limitation it cannot go beyond the boundary of the state. CBI having jurisdiction across the country will be able to conduct a thorough investigation into the crime. But the question arises will the CBI, which has its hands full with lots of work be able to take the task assigned to it. Moreover CBI in Manipur is like a toothless tiger. Too many cases were handed over to the central agency. But so far nothing noteworthy came out of the investigation. Nevertheless the Government as it gives stern warning to the illegal traders indicating it will spare nobody found involved in the illegal trade has been able to show to the masses it stands to cleanse the society of the evils, who are lingering in our midst wearing the garb of gentlemen. We need to do more to save our youths. The king pin will be caught, we are confident about it. Because there is a saying where there is a will there is a way. The commitment that the Government has shown to cleanse the society of the evil doers will not go to waste. Do more.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/government-stand-hailed/

As the election date for Nagaland assembly election draws nearer a scene is emerging, which is crystal clear? It is likely a change may be effected when the results of elections are declared. Wining state assembly election continuously for three terms is not an easy task. At the central level too Congress party is making all out efforts to emulate the record set by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in forming Government continuously for three terms. Since then no political party has been able to remain in power continuously for more than two terms. But Ibobi of Congress (I) and Narendra of BJP are different. The party led by them could win continuously for three terms in their respective states. Neiphieu Rio will not be able to do what the two leaders did. The Home Minister of the state showing damn, to the directive of the Election Commission of India not to show money power, carried arms, liquor and money that reflected the approach of downfall to the party. NPF also attempts to win the election by whipping up the emotion of a community. But Nagaland itself is embroiled by the clash of opinion among the people on whether the state should be divided into two or not. Neiphieu Rio could not put at rest the demand for bifurcation of Nagaland. So he attempted to direct the anger of the disgruntled people of the state to Manipur by making a deep jibe to the Manipur Chief Minister calling him the enemy of Nagas. That reflected his insecurity. He swam in the false dream that the people of his state would stand for his party if he locked in verbal duel with the Chief Minister of neighbouring state. But Nagaland cannot be in competition with Manipur. Manipur is well ahead of all the neighbouring states including Nagaland. In a race competition what is important is running very fast to touch the finishing line ahead of other competitors. By shouting one does win. But NPF of Nagaland thinks otherwise. Yes the leader of a political party can ridicule the policy and programmes of a rival party. That is a customary practice accepted by the law of the land. As if the whole people are behind him he did something a Chief Minister of a state would not have thought of doing. Is Nagaland for Nagas only? Do not their population constitute people belonging to other faith? Rio indulged in cheap propaganda. He has been exposed. Keeping all these things in view one can make a logical conclusion, Nagaland may see a change. A change that will speed up peace and development of the state. Nagaland would have been a hot spot for tourism and centre for many of these centrally sponsored projects but it cannot grab anything. Because it remained talking about problems of Nagas only. But they cannot speak out what do they mean by problems of Nagas. Will the problem be solved by widening the road will it be solved by opening more academic institutions. Time is really precious. Do not waste by making irresponsible demand, which is untenable. Remember the proverbial phrase Rome was not built in day. Nagaland will set on the path of development when the leaders, who can feel the pulse of common masses are elected.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nagaland-may-see-a-change/

Aya Ram, gaya Ram culture has been all of sudden revived in Manipur as the Lok Sabha election approaches. Erstwhile leaders of MPP had rushed to the BJP. Perhaps they feel MPP has no future in Manipur politics. Or perhaps they feel BJP may return to power at the centre. It is the considered view of politically conscious people of Manipur that the party in power at the centre gains acceptability of voters. Simple voters heap a sigh of relief when the candidates they voted get closer to the ruling party. Voters openly encourage their representatives to switch to ruling side. If the anti-defection law was not in force the 60 member house in Manipur would see no opposition member. There had been Samata Government in Manipur. 11 MLAs from Congress (I) rushed to Samata and a three month Government was formed. That was a funny period. There were 33 Ministers. Even a simple function was attended by 11 cabinet ministers. They had nothing to do other than attending Government or public functions. Such Government was better off gone. Further continuation of such Government would have put Manipur in turmoil. Manipur needs a stable Government. Though there had been a rush to the BJP one does not see the possibility of BJP forming a Government at the centre. There is internal squabbling within the party. The party cannot project its prime ministerial candidate. That shows where the party stands. Politics is a game of patience. The rush to a party be it regional or national is untimed. When the right time comes there will be a reckoning. Moreover in Manipur style of election it is the individual charisma of the candidate that wins. People forget issues, policies and programmes of the parties during election. Leader like Govindas of Bishnupur and Shyamakumar of Andro have victory written on their foreheads. Ask them to try on any party they will win. Politics is a serious game. One must know where the weakness lies. Psephologist can declare whether a candidate will win or not long before the conduct of the election by studying the mood of the voters. If they can do, why not politicians should be able to weigh the mood of the voters. Unnecessarily they cause hardship to the family members and local people by jumping into the fray again and again. Always remember a serious game like politics should be played by wise politicians only. Not all are born lucky. Not all are born to win in electoral politics. Just analyse how many of the candidates ended up drawing a thud losing deposits. Many others finished second. In Manipur those who had won earlier in previous elections also cannot win. Then there are fools, who switch side as and when their leaders change political colours. Manipur style of election egg on defeated leaders to change party every time they lose an election. Defection done once or twice may be acceptable, but changing political parities like chameleons evokes fun. Chief Minister has rightly said one must not change political parties for the sake of remaining in political lime light.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/defection-galore/

The crowd that turned up to hear Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Vice President Rahul Gandhi as they rendered speeches for February 23 assembly elections plus the claim made by leaders of the party, of Congress becoming the single largest in 60 member house of Nagaland assembly, emboldens the belief of the common men, Congress may return to power in Nagaland. Moreover 10 years rule by NPF led Government could do nothing meaningful for development of the state. During the same period the other states in NE region particularly Manipur had seen addition of too many infrastructural development. Prestigious capitol project had come up. Massive construction at Khwairamband bazaar took place during the same period. Then there is city convention hall. All these heart throbbing. Then if one visits the district head quarters one will notice the change that had taken place. Nagaland Government forgot its prime duty and waited for the change that it felt would be brought by the peace talk in the same manner lazy men waiting for the fruit to fall in their mouth. But the inconclusive peace talk was extended further. It will continue to be extended again and again for certain demands made by extremists are untenable. Manipur will remain intact no matter whether NSCN demand expansion of territory. Nor the demand for implementation of 6th schedule in Manipur be met. Keeping all these things in view the possibility of NPF returning to power will be next to impossible. NPF’s 10 year rule had exposed the inability of the party to do anything for the betterment of Nagas in Nagaland. Forgetting the prime duty of developing Nagaland it attempted to venture into other neighbouring states’ politics. But it ended like a faux pas without yielding the desired result, it expected. It got only four seats in Manipur. That shows Nagas in Manipur want to lead a peaceful life. A handful of leaders are attempting to hijack the opinion of the masses by playing with people’s emotion. There is a saying you can befool a few people for some time but you cannot befool all people for all time. Realisation has dawned in the minds of the highlanders. They will not go for NPF. After all where lies the need for another homeland for Manipuri Nagas when they are living peacefully in a state, which has seen the return of peace. It will not be a surprise when Congress party sweeps Nagaland poll as the party did it in Manipur. Every party hoped of getting double figure in Manipur election. What happened stands out as a testimony to the people’s belief. Manipur people want the development to come fast so they went for Congress party. Nagaland too will see the change after ousting NPF from power. Moreover existence of NPF is disturbing to the peaceful coexistence of all people in the neighbouring states including Manipur. Rio even called Manipur CM number one villain of Nagas. He hoped by locking in verbal duel with Manipuris the unity of Nagas would be established. Hostile country does that when there is unrest in their own country. Neiphieu Rio has seen the door of exit. Better days are ahead.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nagaland-election/

Power Department can be transformed into corporation. Nothing wrong as long it ensures regular power supply to the consumers. However the state Government is cautioned against privatisation of power sector. Pitiless private companies will devour the poor consumers like shark walloping floating objects in the sea. Above 90 percent of the people living in the state are very poor and most of them are in rural areas. They do not have proper shed to protect from deadly cold during winter and scorchy heat during summer. They do not enjoy even the basic amenities. They drink directly from pond without filtration and boiling. Ask the poor people anywhere in any part of the state, to priotise their need. They will say we do not want anything; they will take whatever that comes to them. To such group of people enhanced electricity bill will be a blow like a jolt from the blue. If private companies enter the power tariff will shoot up and the poor people will be in no position to buy electricity. In Delhi a small house having one air conditioner, two or three fans and a freezer pay around Rs 6000 per month. Here in Manipur a well to do family pleads the inability to spend even Rs 1000 per month on electricity. Even the Government employees getting not less than Rs 50000 per month do not inculcate the habit of clearing electricity bill in time. Many of them are defaulters. They are shameless too. They allow their power line to be snapped while indulging in power theft in the night when there would be none to check illegal connection. But a change is seen at the area where pre paid connection has been introduced. A carpenter who has got pre paid facilities said he spends Rs 1100 per month. He said if he did not use the machine for smoothening the face of the wood the monthly rental fee would have been much lower. He does not use more than four bulbs of 15 watts each. Unfortunately the Electricity department cannot extend such facility to all places in Imphal. Whatever the case may be introduction of pre paid system has revolutionised the whole concept of using electricity. If this facility covers the whole seven assembly segments power theft done at workshop, at school and at Government offices will be checked. Misuse of electricity is done mostly at Government offices. The happy news is that the state is going to receive more power from other states from NE region. But electric does not come free. It has to be bought. There is a gulf of difference between the amount spent in buying power and the amount collected as tax from consumers. The Government thinks by transforming the department into corporation the losses may be controlled partially if not fully. Because to make a corporation self sustenance employees have to work sincerely and honestly, in same manner BSNL employees are doing to keep the body alive. More drastic actions may follow. Retrenchment policy may be applied to kick out shirking employees. Manipur desperately improvement in power sector, which has become an acid test for the Congress led Government. Go ahead. The rest can be tackled.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/power-corporation-in-manipur/