Tag: IFP

IMPHAL | Dec 11

The governor of Manipur, Najma Heptulla has conveyed her warm greetings to the people of Manipur, especially to the brave mothers on the auspicious occasion of ‘Nupi Lan’ on December 12.

The governor stated that she felt proud of the courage, responsibility and sacrificial spirit of the brave women of Manipur who fought in the ‘Nupi Lan’ against the monopolistic policies of the colonial rule.

Manipuri women hold a key position in the social and economic activities of the state even in the present days, said the governor.

She further urged all the people of the state irrespective of caste, creed and religion to emulate the sacrificial spirit of the brave women and strive collectively to bring the state in the path of peace and development.

IMPHAL | Dec 10

Thangmeiband Apunba Nupi Lup (THANIL) drew the attention of the chief minister, N. Biren to expedite the case of Ng. Nicky who was allegedly abandoned by MLA, H. Dingo after having sexual relationship with her for seven years and promises to marry her.

Speaking to media persons today at Manipur Press Club, Imphal THANIL secretary, W. Thaebema condemned the act of the MLA as an inhuman act.

She pointed out that even as a case has been registered with the women police station, Imphal West but the matter is not making any headway till today.

Moreover, Nicky has already submitted her statement to the district magistrate and a reminder has already given to the chief minister on November 17, she continued.

The association drew the attention of the chief minister to let the IO of the case submit the charge sheet against Dingo at the earliest.

THANIL warned to take up certain forms of agitation if the chief minister remained deaf ears to their demands and appealed to the civil society organisations of the state to support them in the struggle to deliver justice for Nicky.

It may be mentioned that a 12 hours bandh was called on June 10 in Thangmeiband area as the chief minister failed to take up action against the MLA besides organising many sit-in protest demanding justice for Nicky.

From Our Correspondent

TAMENGLONG | Dec 10

The five-day long orange festival has finally come to an end with the valedictory programme held at Indoor Stadium, Tamenglong.

MLA, Tamei assembly constituency, Awangbou Newmai, attended as the chief guest. While, chairman, ADC Tamenglong, Namsinrei Panmei, and deputy commissioner, Tamenglong, Armstrong Pame, IAS,  were the president and principal host of the closing ceremony.

In his address, Awangbou Newmai presented a sum of Rs. 5 lakh to the organising committee of the festival, on behalf of minister, PWD, RD and PR and power, Th. Biswajit Singh, who was supposed to attend as the chief guest in the said programme.

He also informed that Th. Biswajit has assured to construct cold storage facilities in Tamenglong soon under his department. That, road connectivity will be improved, and electrification of villages which are yet to be electrified will soon be taken up, he added.

Awangbou Newmai also congratulated the organising committee, as well as orange growers of the district, for the successful conduct of the orange festival. He also expressed his wish to scale the state level orange festival into a national festival, in the future.

While thanking chief minister, N Biren Singh, for sending young and dynamic deputy commissioner to Tamenglong, he also appealed the state cabinet to give special attention to Tamenglong district, owing to its economic backwardness.

Meanwhile, chairman, ADC Tamenglong, Namsinrei Panmei, besides donating a sum of Rs. 50, 000 to the organising committee, credited the success of the festival to the orange growers in the district.

Further, chief medical officer, Tamenglong, Dr. Chambo Gonmei while pronouncing the vote of thanks, he also announced that the orange queen contest will be held on December 13, and hopefully the weather will be viable by then, he added.

In the said festival, Gaigupliu was declared the best orange producer and the second position went to David Gangmei while, Tawangkam Newmei and Guingamliu bagged the third spot.

The prize for the best orange producer carried a cash reward of Rs. 2 lakh and a citation certificate, and Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 75 thousand along with a citation certificate each, was awarded for the second and third position, respectively.

Each participants was also awarded a sum of Rs. 7000 each, as consolation prizes.

In the said valedictory ceremony, Zeme Cultural Dance troupe, Azeena, a renowned singer from Tamenglong and Liangmaipui Baudi entertained the gathering which was also attended ADC members of Tamenglong, namely, Poukinlung, Micah Panmei, Ramning Pame, TP Sanjeu, and SG Pammei.

Despite the bad weather, a huge crowd turned up at the closing function of the 14th State Level Orange Festival 2017 which closed with the singing of warm Christmas carols led by ‘Christmas Colours’, Tamenglong.

From Our Correspondent

TAMENGLONG | Dec 10

The five-day long orange festival has finally come to an end with the valedictory programme held at Indoor Stadium, Tamenglong.

MLA, Tamei assembly constituency, Awangbou Newmai, attended as the chief guest. While, chairman, ADC Tamenglong, Namsinrei Panmei, and deputy commissioner, Tamenglong, Armstrong Pame, IAS,  were the president and principal host of the closing ceremony.

In his address, Awangbou Newmai presented a sum of Rs. 5 lakh to the organising committee of the festival, on behalf of minister, PWD, RD and PR and power, Th. Biswajit Singh, who was supposed to attend as the chief guest in the said programme.

He also informed that Th. Biswajit has assured to construct cold storage facilities in Tamenglong soon under his department. That, road connectivity will be improved, and electrification of villages which are yet to be electrified will soon be taken up, he added.

Awangbou Newmai also congratulated the organising committee, as well as orange growers of the district, for the successful conduct of the orange festival. He also expressed his wish to scale the state level orange festival into a national festival, in the future.

While thanking chief minister, N Biren Singh, for sending young and dynamic deputy commissioner to Tamenglong, he also appealed the state cabinet to give special attention to Tamenglong district, owing to its economic backwardness.

Meanwhile, chairman, ADC Tamenglong, Namsinrei Panmei, besides donating a sum of Rs. 50, 000 to the organising committee, credited the success of the festival to the orange growers in the district.

Further, chief medical officer, Tamenglong, Dr. Chambo Gonmei while pronouncing the vote of thanks, he also announced that the orange queen contest will be held on December 13, and hopefully the weather will be viable by then, he added.

In the said festival, Gaigupliu was declared the best orange producer and the second position went to David Gangmei while, Tawangkam Newmei and Guingamliu bagged the third spot.

The prize for the best orange producer carried a cash reward of Rs. 2 lakh and a citation certificate, and Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 75 thousand along with a citation certificate each, was awarded for the second and third position, respectively.

Each participants was also awarded a sum of Rs. 7000 each, as consolation prizes.

In the said valedictory ceremony, Zeme Cultural Dance troupe, Azeena, a renowned singer from Tamenglong and Liangmaipui Baudi entertained the gathering which was also attended ADC members of Tamenglong, namely, Poukinlung, Micah Panmei, Ramning Pame, TP Sanjeu, and SG Pammei.

Despite the bad weather, a huge crowd turned up at the closing function of the 14th State Level Orange Festival 2017 which closed with the singing of warm Christmas carols led by ‘Christmas Colours’, Tamenglong.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 10

The Congress party was compelled to shift the venue of its sit-in protest demonstration demanding the content of the “Framework Agreement” following disturbances caused by miscreants in Heingang constituency.

As a part of the their continued protest demanding the contents of “Framework Agreement” the Congress party scheduled was to organised the sit-in demonstration at Leipham Khunou Soibam Leikai ground.

However, the sit-in was later shifted to Heingang Mayai Leikai, at the residence of one P. Saratchandra, a member of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, (MPCC) following an alleged protest lodged by miscreants not to organise such protest in Heingang constituency.

Speaking during the sit-in demonstration at Heingang Mayai Leikai, former deputy chief minister, Gaikhangam, strongly condemning the intervention termed it as an unfortunate incident.

He said that the ongoing protest of the Congress party is not aimed at gaining political mileage but serves the interest of people and the state.

Particularly implying to the BJP, he advised that it would be wise for any political party to stop playing narrow minded politics and take into consideration the sensitivity of the issue.

The latest move of the rival party amounts to encouraging the NSCM-IM and its demand, he contended.

The senior congress legislator also further termed the disturbance as an act of supressing the freedom of speech in a democratic society.

He maintained that the move of the rival party would only invite another uprising of the people.

Former chief minister of Manipur, Okram Ibobi Singh said to obstruct the sit in protest which has been held in a continuing manner at each assembly constituencies by the congress party, is undemocratic.

In a democratic society everyone has their right to express their views and opinion, he said.

Ibobi also ridiculed the limited knowledge of the newly elected ministers in the present government on the initiatives taken by the Congress government against the interest of Manipur’s integrity. 

Member, MPCC, P. Saratchandra said while making preparations to organise the sit in protest at the ground at Kairang Muslim under Hiengang assembly constituency, some people came and asked not to organise the protest, providing the reason that the place was under chief minster’s assembly constituency and their organising such sit in protest at that spot would go against the interest of chief minister.

As the shifted the spot to Laipham Khunou today to organise the sit in protest, some people who were allegedly close the chief minister, N. Biren, came over to area and stopped them from holding the protest, he said. They warned if the organisers hold the protest despite their warnings, then Heingang block congress committee will be held responsible for any untoward outcome, he informed.  

Moreover, roadways leading to the venue where the protest was going to be held were kept blocked with logs and bamboos, due to which many people who came to attend the occasion could not reach the area and left disheartened, some with tears, he added.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 10

The Congress party was compelled to shift the venue of its sit-in protest demonstration demanding the content of the “Framework Agreement” following disturbances caused by miscreants in Heingang constituency.

As a part of the their continued protest demanding the contents of “Framework Agreement” the Congress party scheduled was to organised the sit-in demonstration at Leipham Khunou Soibam Leikai ground.

However, the sit-in was later shifted to Heingang Mayai Leikai, at the residence of one P. Saratchandra, a member of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, (MPCC) following an alleged protest lodged by miscreants not to organise such protest in Heingang constituency.

Speaking during the sit-in demonstration at Heingang Mayai Leikai, former deputy chief minister, Gaikhangam, strongly condemning the intervention termed it as an unfortunate incident.

He said that the ongoing protest of the Congress party is not aimed at gaining political mileage but serves the interest of people and the state.

Particularly implying to the BJP, he advised that it would be wise for any political party to stop playing narrow minded politics and take into consideration the sensitivity of the issue.

The latest move of the rival party amounts to encouraging the NSCM-IM and its demand, he contended.

The senior congress legislator also further termed the disturbance as an act of supressing the freedom of speech in a democratic society.

He maintained that the move of the rival party would only invite another uprising of the people.

Former chief minister of Manipur, Okram Ibobi Singh said to obstruct the sit in protest which has been held in a continuing manner at each assembly constituencies by the congress party, is undemocratic.

In a democratic society everyone has their right to express their views and opinion, he said.

Ibobi also ridiculed the limited knowledge of the newly elected ministers in the present government on the initiatives taken by the Congress government against the interest of Manipur’s integrity. 

Member, MPCC, P. Saratchandra said while making preparations to organise the sit in protest at the ground at Kairang Muslim under Hiengang assembly constituency, some people came and asked not to organise the protest, providing the reason that the place was under chief minster’s assembly constituency and their organising such sit in protest at that spot would go against the interest of chief minister.

As the shifted the spot to Laipham Khunou today to organise the sit in protest, some people who were allegedly close the chief minister, N. Biren, came over to area and stopped them from holding the protest, he said. They warned if the organisers hold the protest despite their warnings, then Heingang block congress committee will be held responsible for any untoward outcome, he informed.  

Moreover, roadways leading to the venue where the protest was going to be held were kept blocked with logs and bamboos, due to which many people who came to attend the occasion could not reach the area and left disheartened, some with tears, he added.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 10

“Manipur government should not endorse imposition of AFSPA in the name of bringing peace and security rather they should have courage and urged central government for withdrawing of the draconian law”, said Phulindro Konsam, coordinator Apunba Lup.

Phulindro Konsam, was speaking as one of the speaker during the observance of International Human Rights Day held under the theme of ‘Lets stand up for equality, justice and human dignity’ at Gandhi Memorial Hall Imphal.

Phulindro, observed that the universal declaration on human rights and similar rights enshrined in the Indian constitution to safeguard our rights will be meaningless in the state of Manipur unless the draconian act like AFSPA continue to prevail.

He compared AFSPA with Armed forces (special powers) ordinance 1942 promulgated by the British to suppress the ‘Quit India movement’.

He contended that no justice is achieved in any cases related to violation of human rights under the guise of AFSPA.

“We cannot compromise any cases like torture, rape, murder, fake encounter with compensation. Appropriate legal actions should be taken up against culprit at any cost. And justice should be given without consuming much time because justice delay is justice deny”, he said.

The Apunba Lup convener further condemned the further extension of Disturbed Area status in some part of Manipur.

He observed that the MoU signed between the state and various companies in the North East Development summit during the Sangai Festival will only lead to exploitation of our natural sources of Manipur.

Recalling all the rights violation that has been taking place since 1980, Sunil Karam, coordinator of the Working Committee of the Apunba Lup (WCAL) shared some of his views in his key note address.

The United nation had insisted Government of India for the withdrawal of this AFSPA yet the latter remains silent till today, he said.

Joy Chingkham Coordinator of APUNBA LUP was also the presidium member of today’s observation ceremony.

The observation ceremony was organised by WCAL and all the representatives of civil society organisations attended.

The gathering unanimously affirmed that, “Despite implementation of several laws for the protection of human rights by the United Nation General Assembly in the world and similar law are mentioned in part III of Indian constitution yet there is a gross violation of human rights in Manipur due to the enforcement of Arms forces Special Act (AFSPA) 1958.”

The CSOs attended during the event have expressed their opinion against the act of India Union in their role in signing the merger agreement which led to the formation of insurgencies, and subsequent imposition of AFSPA.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 10

“Manipur government should not endorse imposition of AFSPA in the name of bringing peace and security rather they should have courage and urged central government for withdrawing of the draconian law”, said Phulindro Konsam, coordinator Apunba Lup.

Phulindro Konsam, was speaking as one of the speaker during the observance of International Human Rights Day held under the theme of ‘Lets stand up for equality, justice and human dignity’ at Gandhi Memorial Hall Imphal.

Phulindro, observed that the universal declaration on human rights and similar rights enshrined in the Indian constitution to safeguard our rights will be meaningless in the state of Manipur unless the draconian act like AFSPA continue to prevail.

He compared AFSPA with Armed forces (special powers) ordinance 1942 promulgated by the British to suppress the ‘Quit India movement’.

He contended that no justice is achieved in any cases related to violation of human rights under the guise of AFSPA.

“We cannot compromise any cases like torture, rape, murder, fake encounter with compensation. Appropriate legal actions should be taken up against culprit at any cost. And justice should be given without consuming much time because justice delay is justice deny”, he said.

The Apunba Lup convener further condemned the further extension of Disturbed Area status in some part of Manipur.

He observed that the MoU signed between the state and various companies in the North East Development summit during the Sangai Festival will only lead to exploitation of our natural sources of Manipur.

Recalling all the rights violation that has been taking place since 1980, Sunil Karam, coordinator of the Working Committee of the Apunba Lup (WCAL) shared some of his views in his key note address.

The United nation had insisted Government of India for the withdrawal of this AFSPA yet the latter remains silent till today, he said.

Joy Chingkham Coordinator of APUNBA LUP was also the presidium member of today’s observation ceremony.

The observation ceremony was organised by WCAL and all the representatives of civil society organisations attended.

The gathering unanimously affirmed that, “Despite implementation of several laws for the protection of human rights by the United Nation General Assembly in the world and similar law are mentioned in part III of Indian constitution yet there is a gross violation of human rights in Manipur due to the enforcement of Arms forces Special Act (AFSPA) 1958.”

The CSOs attended during the event have expressed their opinion against the act of India Union in their role in signing the merger agreement which led to the formation of insurgencies, and subsequent imposition of AFSPA.

IMPHAL | Dec 10

Retired IAS and treasurer of Manipur Cultural Integration Conference, R.K. Nimai said violation on human rights will persist unless a concerted effort to confront the issue is made.

The retired IAS officer stated this during the international Human Rights Day observance held today at Human Rights Initiatives (HRI) office, Wangkhei Thangapat Mapal, Palace Compound, Imphal East.

Nimai who attended as the chief guest said ‘right to life’ is the most important of all the Human Rights in today’s society.

By ‘right to life’ we mean everyone should have access to basic amenities like good road system, health care systems, education, adequate essential commodities etc. But, people have often overlooked the most important aspect of human rights, he contended.

Although, politicians usually talked about the value of life but at the end of the day it is nothing but a lip service, he opined.

People have to take the initiative on their own against the violation of human rights, he added.

Nimai further said violation of human rights has been on the rise not only in the state but in every corner of the world and will never end.

Acting chairman, Human Rights Initiative (HRI), Yumnam Ratankumar also attended the observation as president and the observation was jointly organized by HRI and Families of the Involuntarily Disappeared Association, Manipur (FIDAM).

IMPHAL | Dec 10

Retired IAS and treasurer of Manipur Cultural Integration Conference, R.K. Nimai said violation on human rights will persist unless a concerted effort to confront the issue is made.

The retired IAS officer stated this during the international Human Rights Day observance held today at Human Rights Initiatives (HRI) office, Wangkhei Thangapat Mapal, Palace Compound, Imphal East.

Nimai who attended as the chief guest said ‘right to life’ is the most important of all the Human Rights in today’s society.

By ‘right to life’ we mean everyone should have access to basic amenities like good road system, health care systems, education, adequate essential commodities etc. But, people have often overlooked the most important aspect of human rights, he contended.

Although, politicians usually talked about the value of life but at the end of the day it is nothing but a lip service, he opined.

People have to take the initiative on their own against the violation of human rights, he added.

Nimai further said violation of human rights has been on the rise not only in the state but in every corner of the world and will never end.

Acting chairman, Human Rights Initiative (HRI), Yumnam Ratankumar also attended the observation as president and the observation was jointly organized by HRI and Families of the Involuntarily Disappeared Association, Manipur (FIDAM).

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 10

As part of the International Human Rights Day observation, a discussion on human rights, armed conflict and pre-merger status of Manipur was held today at State Guest House, Sanjenthong.

The event was organised by Coalition for Indigenous Rights Campaign (CIRCA).

Research associate at Centre for South East Asia Study, MU, Kangubam Sanatomba, former member of Manipur State Human Rights Commission, Yambem Laba and associate professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) A. Bimol Akoijam spoke during the function.

Convener of CIRCA, Somorendro Thokchom told reporters at the sidelines of the event today that situation of Manipur and UN Declaration of Human Rights is totally contradictory.

It is rather saddening that after Merger Agreement of the state with Indian Government in 1949, judicial killings, custodial rape cases and other numerous cases of human rights violations are in the rise at the state, he pointed out.

This programme is not an observance of the day, but discussion on human rights, whether NE states especially Manipur is actually getting the benefits of human rights inscribed in the United Nation of Declaration of Human Rights, Somorendro said.

He also said that demands and movements in the state such as ILP, ST and removal of AFSPA are given birth by the Merger Agreement to which Manipur lost its sovereignty. 

Bimol Akoijam, associate professor of JNU narrated how human rights was achieved from England in 1205 with Magna Carta.

He said that since then sovereignty has been given to the nation and not monarchy or the ruler.

Continuing his speech on in the context of Manipur, the people lost its independence and sovereignty after signing the Merger Agreement.

“It is high time that our people self realised that our rights are within us and not from external upper hand”, he said.

Sanatomba, research associate at MU said that the demand for pre-merger status of CIRCA may create major contradictions, national conflict and ethnic conflict in the state.

As a result, he suggested the CIRCA to redefine the pre-merger status demands inorder to avoid confusion.

, stressed the need of dialectics for society’s development and to generate political relationship between India and Manipur.

He stated this citing the example of the extension of ‘Disturbed Area’ status in the state which is the precondition for promulgation of AFSPA and followed by the continued militarisation in the state.

also put forward the idea whether Instrument of Accession which was signed before independence can also be an instrument of resolving the present conflict of the state.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 10

As part of the International Human Rights Day observation, a discussion on human rights, armed conflict and pre-merger status of Manipur was held today at State Guest House, Sanjenthong.

The event was organised by Coalition for Indigenous Rights Campaign (CIRCA).

Research associate at Centre for South East Asia Study, MU, Kangubam Sanatomba, former member of Manipur State Human Rights Commission, Yambem Laba and associate professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) A. Bimol Akoijam spoke during the function.

Convener of CIRCA, Somorendro Thokchom told reporters at the sidelines of the event today that situation of Manipur and UN Declaration of Human Rights is totally contradictory.

It is rather saddening that after Merger Agreement of the state with Indian Government in 1949, judicial killings, custodial rape cases and other numerous cases of human rights violations are in the rise at the state, he pointed out.

This programme is not an observance of the day, but discussion on human rights, whether NE states especially Manipur is actually getting the benefits of human rights inscribed in the United Nation of Declaration of Human Rights, Somorendro said.

He also said that demands and movements in the state such as ILP, ST and removal of AFSPA are given birth by the Merger Agreement to which Manipur lost its sovereignty. 

Bimol Akoijam, associate professor of JNU narrated how human rights was achieved from England in 1205 with Magna Carta.

He said that since then sovereignty has been given to the nation and not monarchy or the ruler.

Continuing his speech on in the context of Manipur, the people lost its independence and sovereignty after signing the Merger Agreement.

“It is high time that our people self realised that our rights are within us and not from external upper hand”, he said.

Sanatomba, research associate at MU said that the demand for pre-merger status of CIRCA may create major contradictions, national conflict and ethnic conflict in the state.

As a result, he suggested the CIRCA to redefine the pre-merger status demands inorder to avoid confusion.

, stressed the need of dialectics for society’s development and to generate political relationship between India and Manipur.

He stated this citing the example of the extension of ‘Disturbed Area’ status in the state which is the precondition for promulgation of AFSPA and followed by the continued militarisation in the state.

also put forward the idea whether Instrument of Accession which was signed before independence can also be an instrument of resolving the present conflict of the state.

IMPHAL | Dec 10

The proscribed umbrella organisation CorCom in a message on the occasion of the International Human Rights Day said it shares the hardships of the people who are suffering from living under India’s colonial rule and whose rights have been snatched.

A release signed by media coordinator Ksh. Yoiheiba said the organisation also stands for all the people in the world who are fighting for their human rights. The colonial master India must cease violating the rights of the people in the State and must respect human rights, it said. 

Though the world has crossed a new millennium and is going through many changes, the social administrative system is stilled filled with many loopholes and due to the colonial rule, many people, and communities are deprived or their basic human rights, the release continued. Ways of dividing people and lives, obliteration of communities through oppression, massacre, genocide and religious war, breeding hate towards other community, race have increased rate of violation of humans rights in a massive scale, it further said.   

It added that state terrorism caused by the colonisers has made the region into a battle zone and affected many budding youths turning them into drug addicts, exposing them to HIV- AIDS, the release said adding this has severely affected the natural order of things and ways living a peaceful life.

As the director general, UNESCO, Federico Mayor have stated, the only means to ensure all the human rights of the people and letting them perform their duties is to completely root out all the differences and conflicts amongst the communities of a country, thereby ushering in a long-lasting, life of peace, the release said.  

Human rights are the most basic necessities of living and the progress of the world and its people who had thriving since many decades are all founded upon it, it continued. The most important of them all is the right to freedom, it said. Human kind seeks a life of dignity and security, based on the mentioned right and therefore it has been sought by all, the release continued. On December 10, 1948, it was declared by the United Nations General Assembly that every human being has the right to life, right to live in an independent society and economy.   

An International Bill on Human Rights was created and followed by taking up the protocols of International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the release further said.

However, in Manipur the human rights, right to self determination under an independent economy has been denied and the people have been kept oppressed, it alleged.

The rights granted by the constitution of India exist merely in paper only, it said. The Indian army has been committing genocide by giving them the “Licence to kill,” it said. India soldier have been given what they want by implementing “AFSPA-1958” which directly defy International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, 1966, it continued. 

Ever since the right to self determination was snatched away by the colonial rule, it seems the very right no longer exist at all. The struggles taken, which are of utmost importance to reclaim those rights are made to look like something wrongful, it added.

The war of Independence fought for the sake of our rights, which had been stolen by India, is accepted by the world and granted by the UN, it said. If we set aside all our differences and become united under one single force to take equal measures, then our goals will be achieved, the release concluded.

IMPHAL | Dec 10

Chief minister, N. Biren said that the state government has taken up adequate security measures at all the border areas of the state to check entry of illegal migrants and thwart unlawful activities in the wake of Rohingya crisis in Myanmar and outsiders identification exercise in neighbouring Assam.

Addressing media persons on Hill Leaders’ Day held at chief minister’s secretariat today, N. Biren said that a police station would be opened at Behiang at the earliest.

The CM informed that he would personally visit the interior village located along Indo-Myanmar border in Churanchandpur district to lay the foundation stone of the police station soon after the finalisation of land for the said purpose.

He also said that the state government is planning to deploy IRB personnel in the villages of Kwatha as well.

Apart from opening an additional police post, around 60 armed police personnel had been sent to Jiribam to meet the required security manpower. Jiri police had been strengthened and directed to remain alert as illegal migrants trespass to state’s territory by crossing the temporary bamboo bridges built over Jiri river, he added.

Biren further stated that the state government is ready to consider villagers’ proposal for construction of a ‘welcome gate’ and opening of a police check post at Jessami in Ukhrul district.

He said that new chairman and members of Manipur Human Rights Commission would be appointed soon in order to strengthen the commission.

Regarding the indefinite shutdown announced by the JAC of All Manipur DPC Completed Re-recruitment Candidates of Police Constables Male 2013, the CM appealed to the candidates to revoke their decision.

He clarified that he had never assured to the JAC to declare the recruitment results within a stipulated deadline though he informed them that the Court had ordered the government to constitute an enquiry committee and submit a report within two months. He continued that he clearly told the JAC that the government could not do anything before the submission of the enquiry report as the matter is sub judice. The sudden announcement of indefinite shutdown by the JAC is very unfortunate and the government would not remain silent if the JAC goes ahead with the shutdown, he added.

Responding to a query regarding the inconvenience faced by the people due to checking and frisking for long hours at Khudengthabi on NH-102, the CM said that all these problems would be eased out once a vehicle scanning machine is installed there. The machine had already been procured and it would be installed soon after finalisation of land, he added.

Regarding implementation of ILPS, N. Biren said that a consultative committee comprising of representatives of all the communities of the state and a drafting committee would be constituted soon.

He said that a notice to invite imminent persons to join the two committees would be issued on the media within a few days.

The CM attended to 121 complaints and interacted with around 500 people during Hill Leaders’ Day from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Officials of different government departments were deputed at CM’s secretariat for the day to help attend to the grievances of the public.

Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) screened documentaries highlighting the achievements of the new government.

IMPHAL | Dec 10

Women Action for Development (WAD), Imphal, has today submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister of India, to repeal AFSPA 1958, and to set up a commission inquiry to investigate execution and crime against women in Manipur.

On the occasion of the observation of International Human rights Day, 2000 people gathered in Moirang, the historical place where the Indian flag was hoisted as a symbol of free India, ironically, to deliberate on the grave implications concerning AFSPA.

Since 1992, 18791 people have been executed extra judicially in northeast India, including the 5101 deaths in Manipur. That, out of the 2273 cases reported since 2012 in Manipur, the number of conviction is only 28, and access to justice is rare, especially for women, it added.

The memorandum further mentioned that since 2017, 50 women were killed in Manipur by known and unknown people and cadres of armed groups who are suspected to be closely associated with the Indian security forces.

That, the report of the special rapporteur in India, on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions of 2013, had raised serious concerns about the excessive use of force by security officers and also on the legislation of AFSPA which permits such use of force without accountability, it continued.

Furthermore, the memorandum also added that besides the appeal for removal of AFSPA 1958, it has been urged upon the Prime Minister to set up a commission inquiry to investigate execution and crime against women in Manipur, with the mission to eradicate unlawful killing of women in Manipur.

To allow women victims to speak about their experiences and also ensure access to justice and punishment of the perpetrators, it added.

Lastly, justice is demanded against the six-person (male) suspected to be carrying arms, who had attacked the office of WAD on August 11, 2017, the memorandum added.

IMPHAL | Dec 10

Social Welfare and Cooperation minister, Nemcha Kipgen today expressed that the basic beliefs of all religions are of love, peace and harmony and there is no religion which promotes or advocates any act that is contradictory to love, peace and harmony.

The minister was speaking as chief guest at the First Tagaramphung Advent Christmas 2017, under the theme of ‘Love, Peace and Harmony’, held today at Tagaramphung (Yaikongpao), village ground, Kangpokpi district.

She also stated that believing in God or religion must be reflected in daily conducts that exhibits the love, peace and harmony.

‘In our society, Manipur in particular and the country in general, there is a strong need to reiterate the pivotal role of love, peace and harmony in our dealings with one another in such a manner that they are essential in the formation, upbringing and establishment of our society and intolerance has no room among us’, said Nemcha.

She further said, ‘We need to reiterate this through our own leadership and individual commitments for the improvement and development of our society and country as much as it is essential for the family and the individual’.

The minister also stressed on the need to contemplate the good virtues of any religions at the levels of various leaderships of different communities and confirm that the vital roles they play is never overshadowed by the selfishness of few people.

As part of the celebration, various churches of the district participated in the choral competition. T. Khullen Baptist Church was the winner of the choral competition, while first runner-up was bagged by Tagaramphung Baptist Church and second runner-up by Thadou Baptist Association (TBA), Kangpokpi.

The minister also wished the celebration of the Tagaramphung Advent Christmas to go a long way towards re-establishing the harmonious social relations and bring a new era of peace in the society.

SP of Kangpokpi district, M. Pradip Singh, speaker of Advent Christmas Programme, Reverend Vumthang Sithlou and representatives from various villages, churches and church institutions were part of today’s celebration.

By the Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Dec 9

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed against the acid attack on M. Menaka, today threatened to launch series of agitation if the authority concerned fails to fulfil their demands within seven days.

Speaking to media persons at Manipur press club, convener of the JAC, Naorem Mahendra, urged the government to take serious initiatives by delivering justice at the earliest citing the gravity of the crime.

It is the responsibility of all the stake holders to bring out an ultimate solution so that such brutal incident, which is the first of its kind in the state, may not recur, he added.

Maintaining that the incident was equivalent to an attempted murder, the JAC convener further demanded the authority award severest form of punishment to the accused involved in the crime.

The convener also further demanded the authority to extend financial assistance to the victim, who is a mother of two children, until she fully recovers.

He warned to take up series of agitation with the help of civil society organizations, if the government fails to convert the demands into action within seven days.

Mahendra further appealed to all the civil organisations of Manipur to extend their supports in the course of step taken up by the JAC.

Menaka was allegedly attacked on the night November 29, by Md. Shahdad alias Tomba, using acid.

In connection with the incident three including Md. Shahdad were arrested by the police.

The Joint action committee formed against the incident today organised sit-in protest demonstration at citizen club today strongly condemning the incident at Citizens club, Imphal.

IMPHAL | Dec 9

Centre for Research and Advocacy, Manipur (CRAM) has urged the government of India and the state government to respect and promote the human rights of all indigenous peoples of Manipur as guided by the provision of the UDHR.  

A release said CRAM is making the appeal on the occasion of the 69th anniversary of the adoption of the UN declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on December 10. CRAM would like to express their concern with the continued imposition of Armed Forces Special Powers Act, AFSPA, 1958, that derogates non derogable rights, like the ‘Right to Life’, ‘Right to Justice Remedy’, etc, it said. CRAM also expressed their concern regarding the singing up of MoUs to commence mining operations in Manipur on December 2 at the sidelines of North East Business Summit in Imphal without any details of the MoUs to the people, the release further said.

As recommended by various UN Human Rights bodies, the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958, should be repealed, it continued. The full implementation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the UN declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples 2007 is critical to advance indigenous peoples rights and their self-determined rights over the land and resources, it added.  

IMPHAL | Dec 9

Chief minister, N. Biren Singh said that there is a strong need to dig out more inner potential and talents in the field of sports of the state and explore it to the world. This was stated by the CM at the closing function of the 11th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament 2017 held at THAU Sports Complex, Thangmeiband, Imphal West.

Speaking as chief guest of the function, N. Biren said that sports helps in building real human relations and there is no religion, caste or creed in sports. Sports have a great value in promoting peace in the world, he added.

The CM also said that the government is trying its level best to complete the ongoing construction of various sports complex in the hill districts of the State. Under the recent initiative taken up by the government of India, playgrounds would be developed in each and every village to encourage sports in the country, he added.

Stating that football is becoming popular these days, N. Biren urged the organising committee to organise the tournament at larger scale to reach national level so that the tournament would have maximum exposure in the country.

Mentioning the demand made by the Zeliangrong Union for the construction of Sports Complex, he suggested the union to look for a suitable site for the construction of the complex, for which government would extend every possible help. The CM also said that the government would have a concrete discussion with the locals of the Thangmeiband area for the development of THAU ground such as construction of roofing, pavilion, artificial turf playing surface and others.

Biren stated that the Kabuis inhabited in the valley areas of the state where sports is very active. Earlier, large number of players belonging to Zeliangrong community represented in various clubs during different tournaments of the state. However such representation has been decreasing since many years, and the reason might be non-availability of playgrounds to play, he added.

On the occasion, N. Biren extended monetary assistance of Rs. 50,000 to the organising committee of the tournament.

Addressing his presidential address, MLA Gaikhangam appealed the organising committee to think of expanding the tournament at the scale of national level and it should not be confined only to Zeliangrong community of the state. He further said that Haiphou Jadonang was born in Zeliangrong community but he represents as a symbol of patriotism of human kind.

The function was also attended by former chief minister, Radhabinod Koijam, MLA Tamenglong AC, Samuel Jendai, former minister, Dr. Kh. Loken Singh, former MLA, Janghemlung Panmei, vice-president of BJP, Jyotin Waikhom, president of Zeliangrong Football Association, Gaipuijai Golmei, president of Zeliangrong Union, Amu Kamei.

The final match of the tournament was played between Langthabal Chingthak Rongmei Club (LCRC) and Keishamthong Kabui Football Club (KKFC). The tournament is being organised by Zeliangrong Football Association.

From Our Correspondent

THOUBAL | Dec 9

At the public meeting organised by Heirok Block Congress Committee under the supervision of Manipur Pradesh Committee at Umang Laikon under Heirok part I, former chief minister, Okram Ibobi Singh said the public is still suspicious of the secrecy behind the framework agreement.

He said the agitations of the congress will continue as long as the contents of the framework agreement are not disclosed to the public.  The agitations are not being organised against any political party, or against the militant group NSCN- (IM), he stated. It is not for making political gains of the party or against the framework agreement itself which seeks to bring an everlasting resolution to the Naga issue, he added.

What the congress party has been demanding is that the terms on which the government of India and NSCN – (IM) have agreed upon, that has been included in the framework agreement be disclosed to the public, and not to keep it as a secret, he maintained. 

He further said the signing up of an agreement between two sides means that the two parties have agreed on certain terms. If both the parties do not agree with each other on specific terms, then there would be no signing up of the agreement, he said. The terms which has been agreed upon, are disclosed to the public and not kept in a secret manner, he said adding this is the practice conducted all over the world.

However, the agreement that was signed up on August 3, 2015 between the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and general secretary of NSCN – (IM), Th. Muivah and its contents have not been disclosed to the public and kept under secrecy in the past two years, he added.

If the contents of the agreement bring a permanent and peaceful solution to the issues of the Nagas, then it would be for the betterment of all and the congress party will support it, he said. However, if the agreement does something opposite, that may bring harm to other communities while trying to please another, and has the possibility of affecting the territorial integrity of Manipur, then congress party will face them, he assured.

Ibobi further said during president Ramnath Kovin’s visit at the state to attend Sangai Festival, a copy of the memorandum was handed over to the president, demanding disclosure of the contents of the framework agreement.

The president responded by saying “This is a political issue” and made no further reply, he continued. But we came to know that the president went to Nagaland afterwards and said to the public that the issue of Naga people will be resolved soon, he added.              

On the other hand, during the meeting that took place at Kolkatta between the chief ministers of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, and home minister, Rajnath, an assurance was given that the resolution of Naga issue will not affect the territorial integrity of the neighbouring states. However, when he gave the comment at Nagaland that “their demands will be given,” Ibobi said.

Such act of speaking something at Imphal and saying another at Nagaland, which is a double standard treatment of BJP leaders, is causing the people of Manipur to lose their sleep, he added.     

Speeches were given by T. Mangibabu, Kumari Tilotama and former representative of Hierok assembly constituency, former minister M. Okendro. The meeting was attended by thousands who arrived from several areas of Hierok.