Tag: IFP

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 14

A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed before the High Court of Manipur against the prolonged scarcity of non-judicial and judicial stamps (court fee stamps) in the state.

The PIL was filed by advocate Athokpam Indrakumar Singh, former president of All Manipur Bar Association, before the division bench comprising of acting Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh and Justice Kh. Nobin Singh.

The division bench has directed the advocate general (AG) N. Kumarjit, to take necessary steps to ascertain the causes of the non-availability of the stamps maintaining that the scarcity is causing serious inconvenience to the public at large, not only affecting the judicial system but also in other areas of official activities where judicial/non-judicial papers/stamps/documents are required.

While notice was also issued to chief secretary, commissioner (finance), commissioner (revenue), the director of treasury, the case is to be listed in November 17.

Advocate A. Jagjit represented the petitioner while the AG who represented the state was assisted by P. Tamphamani.

The petitioner in his submission pointed out that prior to the filing of the said PIL, repeated requests have been made from various section of the public including BAR associations, public individuals and litigants, however the government remained adamant and failed to supply adequate quantity of the judicial/non-judicial stamps.

It further mentioned that although the smaller denominations of non-judicial stamps are not available with licensed vendors, the same are readily available with the street vendors, pan stores and oath commissioners, who are teeming in an around the Cheirap Court Complex sans control of any authority.

It claimed that the non-judicial stamps of Rs. 10 are sold for unwarranted premiums of Rs. 140, Rs. 20 at Rs. 90 and Rs. 50 at Rs. 140.

Steps have been taken to find out the reason behind the scarcity by inquiring with the concerned authorities of the government but no satisfactory explanation has been given thus far, it lamented.

The petition claiming that scarcity of the legal documents has been lingering since the last four to five years without any reasonable explanation, and this is what compelled him to file the PIL in the interest of the state.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 14

Old weavers were felicitated during Wangkheiphee Mantri’s Handloom’s “Sinnai Leichal” organised today evening at Wangkhei Meihoubam Lampak, Imphal East.

Speaking on the occasion, arts and culture minister, L. Jayantakumar said to promote the indigenous clothes of the state proper research is needed. One of the indigenous clothes of Manipur “Wangkhei Phee” has a rare quality but due to lack of marketing knowledge the clothes have hardly reached the global market.

The concerned department needs to research thoroughly on the raw materials needed in creating this exquisite textile to increase productivity, he said. The state is not sound in technology but some advanced state print the textures used in the indigenous clothes by using advance machine, the minister pointed out.

The clothes are imitated and imported back into the state at much lower prices than their original, which is now affecting the market of the genuine ones, he maintained. 

The department concerned should take care and to save the indigenous clothes, necessary action should be taken up as early as possible, Jayenta added.

As a part of the programme some old women weavers were felicitated with mementoes. Later a fashion parade was presented on indigenous dresses manufactured from Wangkheiphee Mantri’s Handloom.

MLA, Heikham Dingo Singh, MLA, Th. Satyabrata Singh also attended the function as guest of honour and president, respectively.

IMPHAL | Oct 14

Chief minister, N. Biren Singh has said that educating the masses about the philosophy, implications and components of Lai Haraoba can do wonders in strengthening the sense of oneness among the people of different communities of the State. 

He was speaking as the chief guest at Mera Meepham (Annual Conference of Umang Lai Haraoba) organised by Umang Lai Kanba Apunba Lup (UKAL) at Maharaja Chandrakirti auditorium, Palace Compound, here today.

Mentioning the brilliance and achievements of Manipuri people in different fields, chief minister said that the world would acknowledge the ancient high civilisation of the Manipuris if the Puyas (ancient scriptures of Manipur) are translated into English and Hindi.

Biren said that tranquillity remains elusive in the State due to paying less attention to the common history, culture and origin shared by the people of hill and valley for quite a long time.

Stating that the present State government has been giving due importance to preserving the age-old traditions and culture of the State, Biren said that within a few months after the present government  came to power, the joint interrogation cell was shifted from Kangla. 

He asserted that the sacred Kangla is now free from all forms of impurity and it has regained its real essence.

Informing that the government is making cost estimates for the construction of a bridge over Imphal river to enable opening of the eastern gate of Kangla, Biren said that he had studied the old map of the fort for the said purpose.

Speaking at the occasion, L. Jayantakumar said that every community of the world has the tendency of tracing their origin and blood relations.

Stating that the philosophies and meanings implicated in Lai Haraoba are so significant in terms of studying the origin of the universe and the life cycle of human beings, the minister opined that utmost care must be given to avoid alteration of its original form due to addition of alien components.

Art and culture minister, L. Jayentakumar and organising committee chairman, Prof. Ng. Kangjiya Mangang were the guest of honour and president of the function, respectively.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 13

The two-day residential awareness programme on Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, came to an end today at Hotel Tampha, North AOC.

Commissioner, R.K. Kumarjit Singh attending the closing day function as chief guest, said that the new charter of rights has many new changes. As for instance, there is reservation from 3 per cent to 4 per cent in employment, 4per cent to 5 per cent in higher education among others, he said.

“It will do away social stigma of shame and inferiority complex among PWD”, he added.

He highlighted one of the main difference is that the previous Act had only eight classifications and the new has a total of 21 categories of disability. Special disabilities like dwarfism, learning disorder, acid attack victims are added in this new category.

The commissioner hoped that the situation of PWDs will be better in the state as the head of the government, chief minister N. Biren Singh, is really concerned about people with disabilities and he has also declared some good initiatives.

President of State Platform of Disabled People’s Organisation Manipur (SPDPO), Md. Yunus Khan said that the awareness programme was organised by SPDPO and funded by Manipur North Economic Development Association (MANEDA), Shishu Sarothi, Guwahati and Light for the World of Christoffel Development Cooperation.

The function was also attended by director of Shishu Sarothi, Arman Ali, legal advisor to Shishu Sarothi, Ambalika Senapati, advisor to SPDPO, Sapam Jasobanta and chairman of MANEDA, Peter Hongnamei attended the function as presidium members.

Child welfare officer, department of social welfare, L. Dhaneshwor, in his presentation yesterday said that the new Act provides for setting up a special court and a special prosecutor for differently abled persons when any one needs legal service in seeking justice.

He also said that under section 25 of the Act, free health care and special provision are reserved for people from rural areas.

He mentioned Section 47 which provides equal pay for equal work, non-discrimination in government employments and to dodge promotion denial.

Director of social welfare, Jacintha Lazarus inaugurated the workshop as chief guest yesterday and advisor to SPDPO, Dr. Sapam Jasobanta was guest of honour.

The workshop was attended by five representatives from each district and organisation of PWD. Manipur has a total number of 54,100 persons with disabilities on record.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 13

In a grenade attack at mela ground of Sagolband, Lukram Leirak Youth Club (LLYC) at around 7.15 pm, 10 people were injured, including two minors. One boy of around 10 was injured critically and is now fighting for his life at RIMS hospital.

The mela is scheduled to begin from October 15.

Speaking to media, secretary of LLYC Library, Lukram Prem said two unknown person came on a two wheeler and threw the bomb inside the mela ground. After the blast, when the local rush inside the premises of mela, some stalls were found totally destroyed.

He said Nameirakpam Jenhill son of N. Naoba of Tera Lukram Leirak was found lying beside the roller coaster in daze. The blast caused a grievous wound to the right abdomen of Jenhill. Locals immediately rushed the boy to RIMS causality for first aid.

Names of the injured in the blast are Md. Jafair Ali (25) son of Md. Nadir Ali of Tera Lukram Leirak original from Assam, Th. Iboyaima (60) son of late Th. Goluchnadra of Tera Lukram Leirak, Laishram Ibomcha (48) son of late L. Ibobi Takyel Wangbal Moirang Ningthou, A. Thoi (37) daughter of A. Nila of Game Village, L. Sushil (29) son of late L. Inoucha of Laipham Khounou, N. Nongurou (45) son of late N. Bihari of Tera Lukram Leirak, Th. Basanta (48) son of late Th. Babu of Tera Lukram Leirak, N. Bedajit (38) son of late N. Suranjit of Tera Lukram Leirak and Soubam Sunder (15) son of S (O) Sangita of Moirang Hanuba.

From the blast site police personnel of Lamphel were able to find a grenade lever.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 13

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today reportedly submitted two FIR cases related with fake encounter involving Manipur Police commandos before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Imphal East for initiation of hearing.

According to highly placed reliable sources, these fake encounter cases were submitted by the CBI Special Crime-III, New Delhi based on reports submitted to the bureau by the recently constituted Special Investigation Team (SIT), CBI Imphal branch in compliance with a directive of the Supreme Court of India.

The Supreme Court vide its order passed on July 14 in the case of Extra judicial Execution Victim Families Association, Manipur and the Union of India, ordered the CBI, New Delhi to form an SIT team for inquiring into fake encounter killings in the state.

Subsequently, a five members Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by one SP, an additional SP, a SDP and two inspectors was formed to investigate different cases of fake encounters in the state involving police personnel and security forces.

The two cases submitted to the CJM were FIR No. 18(1) 2012, Irilbung PS, u/s 307, 400, 34 IPC, 25 (I-C) Arms Act relating to killing of one Md. Jamir Khan at Kyamgei Shantipur on January 20, 2012 by the personnel of Imphal East district police commandos and another case is that of FIR No. 41(2)2008 Porompat PS, u/s 307, 34 IPC and 25(I-B) Arms Act in connection with the killing of one Soram Ranjit Singh at Hatta Minuthong on February 15, 2008 by the personnel of Imphal East district police commandos.

The concerned police IOs of respective police station were advised to maintain case files intake for proper holding of the hearing at the court.

The Supreme Court in its final judgement of writ petition (Cril) No.129 of 2012 and Writ Peition (Civil) No.445 of 2012 passed an order to hand over the investigations of different fake encounters that occurred in the state of Manipur involving police personnel and personnel in uniforms.

CBI’s SIT have started gathering information relating with the FIRs registered at different police stations in connection with the fake encounter cases besides the investigating agencies have already received reports of the three commissions of inquiries and 16 case records of judicial inquirires in connection with the fake encounter cases that took place in the state involving security forces.

IMPHAL | Oct 13

The Jnanpith Jury Board, at a meeting, unanimously decided to confer the Jnanarima Manad Alankaran 2017 to Elangbam Sonamani Singh, noted Manipuri litterateur, according to a press release by the board.

It said Sonamani has enriched Manipuri language with his adept multifaceted creations through novels, short stories, poetry, translation and Khand Kavyas.

It further said Sonamani’s creations reflect the socio-cultural milieu and capture the changing times thorugh the prism or our rich traditional values.

The release further said Sonamani has authored more than forty books and is a doyen of the Manipuri literary and socio-cultural fraternity.

He is also the receipient of many prestigious awards that include Manipur State Kala Academy, Centray Sahitya Akademi, Translation Award of Central Sahitya Akademi, Thoibi Award and more, it said, adding “Sonamani is a writer of unique excellence.”

The board meeting was chaired by Jnanpith Laureat Prof. Dedarnath Singh.

The winning author, under this scheme will receive a monthly honorarium for next one year and will also be felicitated by Jnanpith with a Saraswati Murti, citation and shawl, it said.

IMPHAL | Oct 13

Chief minister N. Biren Singh said that people’s involvement, co-operation and awareness campaigns on the impact of climate change is very much important for conserving and preserving the ecology and environment. This was stated by him at the Orientation Programme for Legislatures and Administrative Secretaries on Climate Change Adaptation held at Hotel Classic Grande, Imphal.

The programme was organised by Directorate of Environment, Government of Manipur in association with Department of Science and Technology, Government of India and Swiss Agency for Development and Co-Operation SDC.

Addressing the gathering, chief minister said that the State government is targeting to achieve the National commitments on climate change mitigation and adaptation like generation of 105 MW of on-grid solar roof top facilities by 2022, enhancing of water accessibility and rejuvenation of water resources including stream head management, protection of wetlands and other natural resources. The government would promote organic farming along with modern and scientific agriculture in the State, he added.

Biren mentioned that as an impact of climate change in the state is the incessant rains which have caused floods everywhere in the last six months which have cause immense misery for the people.

He complimented the initiatives taken up by NABARD to counter climate change and expressed his belief that more action oriented programmes will be taken up such as conservation and preservation of wetlands and natural resources. He said that in the meantime, the State government is preparing a Detailed Project Report for the conservation and restoration of Lamphelpat area

Minister for Forest and Environment Th. Shyamkumar said that climate change is not just a threat to the environment but also to growth and development of the nation.

He further said that considering the impacts of Climate Change, the State government and various departments and stakeholders has been implementing identified strategies and action under State Action Plan on Climate Change. The ongoing Climate Change Adaptation Project at Phayeng is one of the integrated model projects undertaken by the eight line departments with the support of the people, he added.

Speaking at the orientation programme, Head and Counsellor, Swiss Cooperation Office India, Embassy of Switzerland Ms. Marylaure Crettaz said that the impact of climate change has been manifested in all the regions of the world including mountainous regions like Manipur and other north-eastern states of the country in the form of water related threats like frequent floods and increase of temperature etc.

Ms. Marylaure Crettaz informed that the Indo-Swiss Bilateral Cooperation on Climate Change has taken up various projects and activities such as to strengthen the resilience of vulnerable communities, capacity building, risk assessment and raise public awareness on the impact of climate change. Such orientation Programme for Legislatures and Administrative Secretaries on Climate Change adaptation is a part of training programme conducted with the help of NABARD Consultancy Services (NABCONS) in various States, she said that training programmes of State Level officials of various departments are also being organised for better implementation and dissemination of information on effects of climate change to the people.

On the occasion, Former Secretary, Government of India Shri Hem Pande delivered a talk on “Climate Policy and Climate Finance: its Opportunities”.

Cabinet Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries, MLAs, Administrative Secretaries, delegates from outside the State participated in the orientation programme.

IMPHAL | Oct 13

Textiles, Commerce and Industries minister Thongam Biswajit Singh met Minister of Commerce & Industry, Government of India Suresh Prabhu at the Make In India Conclave at Stockholm, Sweden on Friday, and discussed ways to develop the industry sector in Manipur.

The two-day Make In India Conclave at Stockholm, Sweden held on October 12 and 13, 2017 is organised by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Government of India, in partnership with Confederation of Indian Industry.

On Friday, Minister Biswajit also attended a round table of delegations of India and Sweden at the Sheraton Hotel, Stockholm. The delegates of the two countries discussed four agendas namely:digitisation, innovation, smart cities and new investment opportunities in all States of the country.

The minister is part of the Indian delegation participating in the two-day conclave which was chaired by Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Löfven. The Indian delegates include Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Suresh Prabhu, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devender Fadnavis, India’s Ambassador to Sweden & Latvia Monika Kapil Mohta and Manipur Textiles, Commerce and Industries Minister Shri Thongam Biswajit Singh.

Earlier on October 11, minister Biswajit had a long discussion with the Indian Ambassador to Sweden & Latvia Monika Kapil Mohta for development of the industry sector in the State and on ways to attract more investors to the State under the Make in India initiative.

Minister Biswajit led a delegation of the state to the conclave with the aim to bring to international knowledge the investment opportunities Manipur has to offer in food processing, handloom/handicraft and textiles especially in ethnic designs and motifs.

The state team had also participated in the ANUGA-2017 at Cologne, Germany. It may be mentioned that ANUGA is an international food and beverage fair and offers an opportunity to exhibitors to showcase their products, services and technologies.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 13

Former project director and presently officer on special duty of Manipur Development Society (MDS) Yambem Ningthem, was granted anticipatory by Justice Kh. Nobin Singh, High Court of Manipur.

Ningthem filed bail petition (AB/28/2017) on Thursday before the bench of Justice Kh. Nobin Singh, High Court of Manipur.

Ningthem’s bail petition was heard today and the HC granted the plea after furnishing a surety bond of Rs. 50,000. The court passed an interim order not to arrest Ningthem and fixed the next date of hearing on October 25.

On the other hand, the anticipatory bail hearing of former chief minister, Okram Ibobi Singh was deferred till October 25.

A case was lodged against Ningthem and five others including former chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh on September 1, alleging huge financial irregularities totalling Rs.185.79 crores had been committed under their watch.

The others in the FIR included former chief secretaries, D.S. Poonia, P.C Lawmkunga, O. Nabikishore Singh and also S. Ranjit Singh (administrative officers, MDS).

The FIR was lodged against them by Dr. Th. Muhindro Singh, joint secretary planning, based on findings of the investigation conducted by the state vigilance commission.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 13

BJP Manipur state unit has today clarified that the party is not related or have any link with Molecule who announced Rs. 5 crore reward for every FIFA under 17, 2017 players of the state, and Rs. 8 crore for any player who scores the first goal.

Speaking to media persons at the BJP party’s office at Imphal, the state unit’s general secretary, K. Sharatkumar Singh said that the statement made by Molecule using the party name does not have anything to do with the BJP or the present BJP-led government.

Touching on another topic, he said BJP will at least get majority in the recently conducted held gram panchayat election.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 13

A function for weavers and artisans was held in anticipation of Hastkala Sahog Shivir which will be organised from October 7 to October 17. The upcoming function is related to the 100th birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay.

The programme was jointly organised by development commissioner (H), Ministry of Textile, COHANDS and Manipur Handlooms and Handicrafts Corporation Ltd, at Kangla Hall, Kangla, Imphal West.

Speaking on the occasion, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, minister, Karam Shyam said 80 per cent of family maintenance in the state is in the hands of women, and if the state does not give importance to women, development would be impossible.

He said by and large the term “weaker section” in the context of the state constitute of orphans, widows, old aged people neglected by their children etc.

He also said development is not only vitally dependent on infrastructural advances, but growth of basic humanity in people. Most people think of individual welfare but not public good and this is a problem, Shyam added.

In this regards, he said He said the government led by chief minister N. Biren Singh is giving equal emphasis to human development as well as on infrastructural development. Without human development, there cannot be a strong economic growth.

To abolish corruption from the state, politician and public should understand each other, and people should take the initiatives to remove corruption, he said.

Guest of honour of the function, MLA of Mayang Imphal constituency, K. Robindro said the state is known to world for its handicraft and handloom products. Though these products have high quality, because of lack of knowledge of modern marketing, handloom they are unable to reach the global market.

He said the use of indigenous handloom and handicraft products should be made mandatory in every government and private firms so as to promote them and the artisans behind their production.

Meanwhile, Pehchan card were distributed to 20 artisans. A toll free number 18002084800 where people can seek help in marketing handloom products was also announced.

Member of parliament (Lok Sabha) Th. Meinya, MLA, O. Lukhoi Singh, MLA, H. Dingo Singh and deputy chairman Manipur state planning board, S. Rajen Singh also attend the function as guest of honour and president respectively.

IMPHAL | Oct 13

Bhartiya Janata Party, Manipur Pradesh has notified that Khwairakpam Robin Singh, son of Kh. Sanajoaba Singh of Sekmai A/C, active member of the party, is expelled from the party as per the provision of the party constitution, article XXXV, disciplinary action, breach of discipline clause (f) with immediate effect, said a release signed by president BJP Manipur Pradesh, K. Bhabananda Singh.

IMPHAL | Oct 12

North-East Students Society of Delhi University (NESSDU) demanded revocation of the HRD’s decision making Hindi compulsory in academic courses or introduce a Compulsory Hindi Test (CHT).

Vice president of the society and a representative of the state, V. S. Mungreishing elucidated on the issues faced by Northeastern students in the country’s capital. He said that making Hindi mandatory will be tough on the NE students studying Delhi University as they do not hail a region where Hindi is not their mother tongue.

A student of third semester in DU, Mungreishing told reporters at Manipur Press Club that “many seniors have completed their graduation but have not received their degrees as they flunked Hindi.”

“The result is a social stigma compelling our seniors to go no further than work in call centres or seek part time jobs, feeling ashamed of going back home because they do not have a degree in hand. They cannot even go for competitive exams and other well-paid jobs also,” he added.

Compulsory Hindi Test was imposed from the academic year 2013 in Delhi University for graduation students and is mandatory to get a degree.

He said that representatives of NESSDU started out to cover all NE states to give awareness to public as well as the government about hardships faced by students of NE studying in Delhi. He also said that he would meet the education minister and the chief minister to give recommendations to the central HRD department to remove the said mandate.

A recommendation was also submitted to the vice-chancellor recently but there is no response till date, he said.

The students’ society also demanded the construction of a hostel in the campus of DU especially for students of Manipur as accommodation charges are prohibitive in the campus vicinity.

Newmai News Network

DIMAPUR |Oct 12

The Kohima bench of the Guwahati High Court has deferred the hearing of the ‘Whip issue’ to October 25, according to Dr. Shurhozelie led Naga People’s Front (NPF) today.

The Dr Shurhozelie led NPF, in a release said today’s deferment of the hearing on the ‘Whip issue’ should not be construed as anything negative or positive “for either of the parties since the Judge before whom the matter came up for hearing had excused himself from taking up the case on the ground that two of the respondents to the case are his kith and kin”.

The release continued, “It is a truth universally accepted that it is the president of a political party, or someone authorised by the president, who appoints the chief whip of that political party so as to keep its legislators within the parameters of the party’s principles and ideologies, especially when it comes to voting in either the Parliament or the Legislative Assembly”.

Further it said anyone who deviated from “this universal truth” and practice would be doing so at his own peril, “like what TR. Zeliang and group are doing, since their delinquent behaviour or action cannot stand scrutiny of the law”.

“The case before the Court of law is very simple: Is it the political party or the Legislature Wing which appoints the Chief Whip for the Party?” the statement of Dr Shurhozelie led NPF asked.

According to the release, the Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution does not mention that the legislature wing should appoint the chief whip of the party, but makes it abundantly clear that it is the political party which appoints the chief whip so as to enable it to keep its flock together.

The idea behind amendment of the Constitution is to prevent instances such as that of one legislator, Ram Lal of Haryana who defected three times in a single day, giving rise to the phrase “Aya-Ram-Gaya-Ram”, it added.

The statement maintained that a direct bearing to this argument is the fact that Mmhonlumo Kikon, the chief whip of the BJP in Nagaland was not appointed by Paiwang Konyak, the leader of the BJP legislature party in Nagaland Legislative Assembly, but through the direction of the National BJP general secretary, Ram Madhav.

“This ‘Whip Issue’ in the Court is hanging over the TR Zeliang-led government like the proverbial Damocles’ Sword, and sooner or later, the law will catch up with the wrong-doers and rectify the gross injustices they have perpetrated,” the statement added.

‘Leisaa Latpa’ ceremony performed for Barak & Maku bridge 

IMPHAL | Oct 12

First and foremost priority of the new government is to bring development in the hill areas of the State for without the progress in the hill districts, there would be no inclusive development in the State, reiterated N. Biren. 

This was stated by him today at the Leisaa Latpa (Bhoomi Puja) for the construction of Barak and Makru bridge on the NH-37 held near Barak bridge, Tamenglong.

Seeking love and support of the people, the chief minister continued without the support of the people and government, the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) would not be able to complete the project under the stipulated time.

He maintained that the government has kept its door open 24X7 and everyone is invited for to knock the door so that the issues/grievances of the people could be solved as soon as possible.

He further said that the purpose of the today’s visit was not just for Bhoomi Pujah of the two bridges but also to observe how the people of the living in hill areas of the State. The NHIDCL has committed to complete the construction of these bridges by December, 2017.

On the occasion, chief minister said that the construction of the Barak and Makru bridge will definitely improve the flow of traffic in the Imphal-Jiri Road. Apart from the construction of Bridge, the government would be preparing a detailed project report within 6 months for the construction of Irang Bridge, he added.

During his maiden visit to Barak, Tamenglong, large number of people warmly welcomed and felicitated N. Biren Singh, his council of ministers and MLAs at various places such as Tupul, Noney, Khongshang, Nungba, Rengpang, Kambiron etc.

He said he would be visiting Tamenglong district on October 24 of this month and would be announcing some developmental programmes for the district. During his visit to the district, he said that he would announce a Rs. 35crore water supply scheme to provide potable water supply to the people of the district.

Mentioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative of ‘Saab ka Sath Saab ka Vikas’, he stated that the objective of the new government is to render human service for the welfare of the people of the State.

Further he said that new medical insurance schemes to provide better healthcare to the poor and BPL families of the State would be announce soon. The scheme would provide free medical treatment to BPL/poor families. Under this scheme, the beneficiaries will be entitled to medical treatment coverage up to Rs. 2 lakhs per family per year.

Biren also pointed out that the State government is planning to launch a special scheme for differently-abled persons of the State. Under the new scheme, skilled differently-abled persons would be given soft loans to help start their own business.

The scheme would also have a provision to provide monthly pension to fully disabled persons and the said scheme would be implemented from December 3 on the occasion of ‘International Day of People with Disability’, he added.

The team also inspected the construction and progress of Jiri-Tupul-Imphal Railway line at Noney.  He also inspected and reviewed the progress of the world’s tallest girder rail bridge located at Noney.

Speaking on the occasion, executive director of NHIDCL, Ajay Ahluwalia said the total estimated cost for the construction of Barak and Makru bridge is 110 crores.  He further said that NHIDCL act as an instrument for infrastructure development to improve road connectivity and efficiency of the international trade corridor to enable efficient and safe transport.

The company is working for the road construction of 1500km in Manipur, he added. In the first phase, the company would be engaging in the repair and restoring of various roads of the State.

 The Barak and Makru bridge would be having a 154 meter span and 122 meter span respectively on the Jiribam-Barak Road (NH-37) and will be constructed by Bharatia Infra Project Limited.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 12

The Special Judge, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Imphal West today sentenced a 62 year old man to rigorous imprisonment for a period of 12 years and imposed a fine of Rs. 20,000 on him for sexually assaulting a 9 year old minor girl.

The man identified as Huidrom Bheigya Singh, 62, son of late H. Anagangyaima Singh of Komlakhong, Ereima Maning Leikai, was convicted under section 4 of the POCSO Act for committing penetrative sexual on minor.

The convict was produced before the special judge of POCSO, M. Manjokumar Singh today and the sentence hearing was conducted.

During the hearing the special public prosecutor submitted that the accused is convicted under section 4 protection of POCSO for committing penetrative sexual assault on a minor girl, which is very serious offence particularly because the accused is a matured person, having full knowledge of the situation and prayed to award the sentence to maximum like life imprisonment.

The counsel of the accused in his submission however contended that the accused is now an aged person of 62 year and has a wife with an unsound. He also said the accused has no antecedent of criminal activities.

It also further mentioned that on that day of the offence the accused was drunk and the act was done under the influence of alcohol. Moreover, the counsel submitted that his client has also been in judicial custody since the day of the incident and prayed for awarding minimum sentence by considering these mitigating factors.

The court after hearing submissions of both the counsels and considering the materials on record, observed that the act committed by the accused to a victim, who was a minor of 9 years and who also used to call him “pupu” (Grandfather) is a very much an inhuman act.

The Special judge therefore ordered that the convict Huidrom Bheigya Singh be sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for a period of 12 years and fine of Rs. 20,000 under the section 4 of POCSO Act and in default of payment of fine, the accused has to undergo another six months simple imprisonment.

It is also further ordered that the said fine of Rs. 20,000 shall be deposited to the court and the said amount be given to the victim as compensation. The period which the victim has already undergone in judicial custody during the period of investigation as well as during the trial will be set off from the sentence awarded, the order said.

The court has also recommended for providing compensation of Rs. 2 lakhs from the scheme “Financial Assistance and Support Service to Victim of Rape” a scheme for retrospective justice launched by the Ministry of Women and Children Development, Government of India.

The convict Bheigya Singh was apprehended by the police following a written complaint lodged by the mother of the victim girl on September 2, 2015 stating that on September 1, 2014 at about 4.30 pm her two minor daughters went to their nearby shop to buy some eatables.

On their way home, the accused who is their neighbour and also the so-called grandfather of the said kids, called them inside his house.

The report further stated that the accused sent the younger sister of the victim to play outside his room but he accompanied the victim insides his room and on the pretext of scratching the skin itches, he raped the victim on his bed.

The incident came to light when the victim girl disclosed the same to her aunty on September 2, 2015 thereupon a regular case FIR No. 45(9) 2015 WPS, IW,u/s 4 POCSO Act was filed.

Following the completion of the investigation by the women PS, Imphal West submitted charge sheet against the accused on February 23, 2016 before the special judge POCSO, Imphal West and continued trail during which statement of 13 witnesses have recorded and examined by the court.

The accused was convicted by the judge on October 9 and sentence was issued today.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 12

The Special Judge, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Imphal West today sentenced a 62 year old man to rigorous imprisonment for a period of 12 years and imposed a fine of Rs. 20,000 on him for sexually assaulting a 9 year old minor girl.

The man identified as Huidrom Bheigya Singh, 62, son of late H. Anagangyaima Singh of Komlakhong, Ereima Maning Leikai, was convicted under section 4 of the POCSO Act for committing penetrative sexual on minor.

The convict was produced before the special judge of POCSO, M. Manjokumar Singh today and the sentence hearing was conducted.

During the hearing the special public prosecutor submitted that the accused is convicted under section 4 protection of POCSO for committing penetrative sexual assault on a minor girl, which is very serious offence particularly because the accused is a matured person, having full knowledge of the situation and prayed to award the sentence to maximum like life imprisonment.

The counsel of the accused in his submission however contended that the accused is now an aged person of 62 year and has a wife with an unsound. He also said the accused has no antecedent of criminal activities.

It also further mentioned that on that day of the offence the accused was drunk and the act was done under the influence of alcohol. Moreover, the counsel submitted that his client has also been in judicial custody since the day of the incident and prayed for awarding minimum sentence by considering these mitigating factors.

The court after hearing submissions of both the counsels and considering the materials on record, observed that the act committed by the accused to a victim, who was a minor of 9 years and who also used to call him “pupu” (Grandfather) is a very much an inhuman act.

The Special judge therefore ordered that the convict Huidrom Bheigya Singh be sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for a period of 12 years and fine of Rs. 20,000 under the section 4 of POCSO Act and in default of payment of fine, the accused has to undergo another six months simple imprisonment.

It is also further ordered that the said fine of Rs. 20,000 shall be deposited to the court and the said amount be given to the victim as compensation. The period which the victim has already undergone in judicial custody during the period of investigation as well as during the trial will be set off from the sentence awarded, the order said.

The court has also recommended for providing compensation of Rs. 2 lakhs from the scheme “Financial Assistance and Support Service to Victim of Rape” a scheme for retrospective justice launched by the Ministry of Women and Children Development, Government of India.

The convict Bheigya Singh was apprehended by the police following a written complaint lodged by the mother of the victim girl on September 2, 2015 stating that on September 1, 2014 at about 4.30 pm her two minor daughters went to their nearby shop to buy some eatables.

On their way home, the accused who is their neighbour and also the so-called grandfather of the said kids, called them inside his house.

The report further stated that the accused sent the younger sister of the victim to play outside his room but he accompanied the victim insides his room and on the pretext of scratching the skin itches, he raped the victim on his bed.

The incident came to light when the victim girl disclosed the same to her aunty on September 2, 2015 thereupon a regular case FIR No. 45(9) 2015 WPS, IW,u/s 4 POCSO Act was filed.

Following the completion of the investigation by the women PS, Imphal West submitted charge sheet against the accused on February 23, 2016 before the special judge POCSO, Imphal West and continued trail during which statement of 13 witnesses have recorded and examined by the court.

The accused was convicted by the judge on October 9 and sentence was issued today.

IMPHAL | Oct 12

Child welfare officer, department of social welfare, L. Dhaneshwor said that the new disabilities act of 2016 is better and has more benefits than the previous act of 1995. He made this statement on the opening day of a two-day residential awareness programme of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, held today at Hotel Tampha, North AOC.

Dhaneshwor said that the new Act provides special court and a special prosecutor for any differently abled person who needs legal assistance in seeking justice. He also said that under section 25 of the Act, free health care is also guaranteed and special provision for people from rural areas.

He further mentioned Section 47 which provides equal pay for equal work, non-discrimination in government employments and to dodge promotion denial.

Dhaneshwor also lectured on many other new features and new benefits of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Head member of State Platform of Disabled People’s Organisation Manipur (SPDPO), Md. Yunus Khan said that the awareness programme was organised by SPDPO and funded by Manipur North Economic Development Association (MANEDA), Shishu Sarothi, Guwahati and Light for the World of Christoffel Development Cooperation.

Director of social welfare, Jacintha Lazarus attended the function as chief guest of the function and advisor to SPDPO, Dr. Sapam Jasobanta as guest of honour.

The workshop was attended by five representatives from each district and organisation of PWD. State has a total number of 54,100 persons with disabilities.

IMPHAL | Oct 12

Child welfare officer, department of social welfare, L. Dhaneshwor said that the new disabilities act of 2016 is better and has more benefits than the previous act of 1995. He made this statement on the opening day of a two-day residential awareness programme of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, held today at Hotel Tampha, North AOC.

Dhaneshwor said that the new Act provides special court and a special prosecutor for any differently abled person who needs legal assistance in seeking justice. He also said that under section 25 of the Act, free health care is also guaranteed and special provision for people from rural areas.

He further mentioned Section 47 which provides equal pay for equal work, non-discrimination in government employments and to dodge promotion denial.

Dhaneshwor also lectured on many other new features and new benefits of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Head member of State Platform of Disabled People’s Organisation Manipur (SPDPO), Md. Yunus Khan said that the awareness programme was organised by SPDPO and funded by Manipur North Economic Development Association (MANEDA), Shishu Sarothi, Guwahati and Light for the World of Christoffel Development Cooperation.

Director of social welfare, Jacintha Lazarus attended the function as chief guest of the function and advisor to SPDPO, Dr. Sapam Jasobanta as guest of honour.

The workshop was attended by five representatives from each district and organisation of PWD. State has a total number of 54,100 persons with disabilities.