Tag: IFP

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 8

Citing unfair means used in the polling of Gram Panchayat, election agent of one of the pradhans polling for Sapam Leirak Gram Panchayat, Imphal West (5/14/7) today urged that re-poll should be done for the said area.

Salam Ranjan, election agent for intending pradhan candidate, Thiyam Loken Singh alleged that some miscreants have misbehaved with him creating trouble during yesterday’s polling. The miscreants did not allowed to have free and fair, he added.

He said that there are 555 voters in the Gram Panchayat and turn-out was 521 voters (97 percent) which are irrational and questionable. He demanded that election authrities should see how true the turn-out was.

Further Ranjan said that the younger brother of another intending candidate, Thokchom Bishwarjit who is attached with Imphal West police commando came in his uniform and service gun and caste his vote creating another trouble. He urged that the home department should look into this matter too.

He also cited returning officer (RO), Daulat Khan has been biased to the request for re-poll of Sapam Leirak Gram Panchayat election. Ranjan said that a complaint was sent to the respective deputy commissioners (DC) through the RO but the latter had neglected the area and was not allowed to make a re-poll.

Ranjan urged that appropriate action should be taken up against the RO so such unwanted incident does not happen again in the future.

IMPHAL | Oct 8

A bomb suspected to be IED exploded this evening at around 6, at Nagamapal Phougaishangbam Leikai Imphal. The blast occurred at the back side of a building, which is under the name one John from Keishampat. No one was injured in the blast.

The impact of the blast damaged the right side window of a Hyundai Santro Xing car, bearing registration number MN04A-4516 of silver colour. The said car was driven by one Umananda Loitongbam, (46) son of L. Sukumar of Khagempalli Panthak. He was driving towards Khuyathong when the blast occurred.

Some army personnel who happened to be present at Nagamapal area, after checking the blast cite opined that the bomb was planted on the footpath of Naga river just beside the building.

Though the blast site is under the jurisdiction of city police no police personnel came to the spot for investigation at the time of filing this report.

From Our Correspondent

UKHRUL | Oct 8

Executive Council of the Student’s Union of Pettigrew College (SUPC) told media that the student’s union will intensify its agitation from October 11 onwards, for which the college will be shut down indefinitely.

The decision was made in a press conference led by its general secretary, Phuiya Shimrah in presence of social and cultural secretary, Rathanmi Malung, secretary of boys common room, Khayui Kasom and secretary of girls common room, Soreichon Lungleng.

The general secretary stated that the student’s union had submitted a memorandum to the education minister, government of Manipur in September, for kind intervention and for immediate address to the ongoing issue. However, no response has been made so far, he claimed.

It may be mentioned that the student’s union have been demanding for immediate removal of present principal of the college due to administration failure. Classes for maths, physics and chemistry have not been effective due to shortage of teachers and irregularities. The memorandum also includes regular conduct of classes. In spite of the assurance given by the local MLA, there has been improper functioning of the college administration.

The general secretary stated that as nothing positive result has yielded, the agitation is compelled to carry out and the authority concerned would be responsible for any untoward incident.

IMPHAL | Oct 8

Chief minister, N. Biren Singh has said that solution to the Naga issue should not disturb peace in Manipur, while maintaining that an early resolution of peace talks between the Centre and NSCN (IM) is desirable in the interest of the entire Northeast region, according to a report in the Indian Express.

The report said the chief minister asserted that any agreement on the Naga issue which hurts the interest of Manipur is unacceptable, Biren said that there will not be any compromise on the matter. Large areas of the state are inhabited by Nagas.

“We want early resolution to any issue that affects the people. The same applies to the ongoing talks between Centre and NSCN (IM),” the report quoted the chief minister.

The report said Biren was responding to a query on the state government’s position on the framework agreement signed between the Centre and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland, Issac-Muivah group (NSCN-IM) in August 2015 to bring an end to India’s longest running insurgency, which has so far failed to yield a final outcome.

Among others, NSCN (IM) has sought integration of Naga inhabited areas of the Northeast and autonomy of the proposed region. The demand mostly affects Manipur as the state has vast areas inhabited by Nagas, it added.

“As far as NSCN (IM) is concerned, Manipur government is not a party to the talks with the Centre … however, what we have asked the Centre is that whenever there is a discussion that involves interests of the state, then our views and consent should be taken. There cannot be any compromise on the interest of Manipur,” the report quoted Biren.

He further said, “We have made it amply clear to the Centre that we don’t have any problem with whatever solution that is arrived at, as long as it is confined to the territorial limits of Nagaland,” the report said.

Singh said even other states like Assam and Arunachal Pradesh which can also be affected were also in favour of resolving the Naga issue within Nagaland itself, it added.

“I have been in touch with my counterparts of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. We want a solution to the Naga issue at the earliest within Nagaland without disturbing others as it is in the interest of the people of the Northeast,” Biren was quoted as saying.

Asked about the possibility of Centre agreeing to demand of integration of Naga inhabited areas, he said, “I don’t think the government of India would want a solution that is going to create greater chaos and a bigger problem in the region,” it added.

In case such a scenario was to arise, Biren said, “then the Manipur Assembly will take up the issue and take a resolution against any infringement on the territorial integrity of the state”, the report further quoted Biren.

When asked about lifting of the contentious Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) entirely from the state, Biren said his government has been working to improve law and order situation so that it could be removed in the long run, it said.

“However, the current situation doesn’t warrant lifting of the act entirely from the state. We are working to improve the situation. So, as and when it improves, we will work towards it (removing the act),” he was quoted as saying.

At present except for seven Assembly constituencies in Imphal valley, the act is in force in the rest of Manipur, the report said.

Human rights activists have been campaigning for removal of the act from the state as it gives armed forces extraordinary power that includes immunity from legal action, and the licence to shoot and arrest people without obtaining warrants.

Newmai News Network

DIMAPUR | Oct 8

Rh. Raising, convenor of steering committee which is the highest decision making body of NSCN (IM), said that the “Framework Agreement recognises the sovereign right of the Nagas”.

Rh. Raising said this while speaking in the “Joint Council Meeting on Indian and Burmese Colonialism” on October 6, according to NSCM (IM). His speech was made available to media houses this evening.

According to Rh. Raising, the ‘Framework Agreement’ “has recognised the unique identity” and the history of the Nagas. “It has also recognised the territory of the Nagas by stating that Nagas are the owner of their land. It is also mutually agreed upon that integration of all Naga territories is the legitimate right of the Nagas”, he maintained.

Bringing an honourable and acceptable solution to both parties, co-existence of the two entities and share sovereignty of the two entities are mutually agreed, Rh Raising said.

“We can assure you that the ‘Framework Agreement’ will be our political wall that protects our land, our identity, our rights, our culture, our history and our future from all impending dangers of hostile raging waves roaring against the Nagas on the one hand and it will also be a strong durable bridge between India and Nagalim on the other,” the speech read. 

“And that Nagas will decide their future by themselves, not by others anymore. Hebron will be the Centre of Naga politics, government, culture, civilisation and the seat of their high command”, the NSCN (IM) leader’s speech added.   

According to the convenor of the steering committee,  the era of building the infrastructures of a social system for creation of a positive social environment, scientific education system for production of generations of scientists in different fields, material and spiritual developments of our land and people, building industries for massive productions, marketing, trade and commerce for generation of revenues and others for making our country a land of peace and progress and a society of higher order has come.

“It is now the time of building the damaged psychology of our people; it is the time of building relationship with our neighbours, it is the time of reconciliation with India, it is the time to go to the house of the Lord and praise and worship the Creator of Nagalim,” Rh. Raising added.

The NSCN (IM) leader continued that the “waves of Indian and Burmese colonialism in Nagalim have been covertly or overtly wrecking the land, the mind and the culture of the Nagas without ceasing”. The Indian and the Burmese states have already established their political out posts in Nagalim in the guise of development and security threat, Rh. Raising added.

According to Rh. Raising, the forces of colonialism are rampant everywhere in Nagalim. “They are: the Muslim immigrants from Bangladesh, the Nepalese from Nepal, the Kukis from Burmese Chin state, the Chakmas from Chittagong hills, Bangladesh, tea gardeners from Bihar and Odisha and various business communities from Indian sub-continent. If we do not take strong political and legal steps to check them today, our children will face insurmountable problem from them tomorrow,” the NSCN (IM) leader added.

According to the NSCN (IM) leader, “Indianisation of Nagalim through import voters” from Indian mainland by the Naga politicians is a matter to be viewed seriously. He added that “status and money-monger politicians don’t care for the future of their people”.

Rh. Raising also said that “colonization of Nagalim” through Indian political parties is another established policy of the government of India. “The Nagas of Congress party, BJP party or other parties are consciously or unconsciously the agents of Indian colonial policy. Hypnotized or drunk with the deception of tempting political bait of the enemies they become advocates for the wrong cause of the aggressors. It is so because all Indian political parties are Delhi oriented which always stands diametrically opposed to the concept of Naga nation,” he added.

“We hope all the rational Nagas understand the reality that the Nagas are now placed in a safe and secure position by the Framework Agreement,” the convenor of the highest decision making body of NSCN (IM) added. 

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 8

The Mid-day Meal Workers’ Union, Manipur today demanded that their nine months pending honorarium be disbursed on or before October 21 as a gift for Ningol Chakouba.

President of the union, Y. Indrani Devi told reporters at Manipur Press Club that their pending honorarium of nine months be given and that it will be taken as gifts for Ningol Chakouba, which is one of the biggest Manipuri festivals.

She said that Manipur is the only state which has not got honorarium and has no increment of wages.

A memorandum was submitted to the chief minister, N. Biren Singh, education minister, Th. Radheshyam and education director on July 31 but have not got any positive response, she said.

Another memorandum was also sent to the prime minister, Narendra Modi on October 6 demanding payment of honorarium and proper treatment of charter of demands submitted to the state government, she added.

Indrani said that a service for just one day ‘Ussop’ (feast) is also Rs. 500 and we get only a meagre amount of Rs.1000 for a month, and that is not fair enough working as a government employee, she lamented.

The memorandum submitted to the state officials also demands for the increment of the pay and to extend workers’ status to the mid-day meal workers, to build proper kitchen set, storage, water facility and others in schools, to cover social security benefits facilities to the workers, implement ESI and PF among others.

The president said that if it is not disbursed by October 21, they will take part in the national dharna which will be carried out on November 9 and 10.

IMPHAL | Oct 8

Chief minister, N. Biren today assured that the state would soon witness good road networks under the “Emergency Work” this year as provided in the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) works manual as a one-time measure and as an immediate step.

This was announced by N. Biren while addressing a press conference held today at the CM secretariat.  He maintained that several potholes had been mended and repaired however, incessant rain and floods over the past few months has resulted the damaged of such repaired roads.

Soon after the withdrawal of monsoon in the State, the PWD has started repairing works of various roads across the State, he added.

To ensure that quality is being maintained while constructing of roads, N. Biren said that a Whatsapp group has been created with chief minister, chief engineer PWD and other officials of the department as its members.

He pointed out that if one suspects that quality is being compromised in repairing the roads, then people can lodge their complaint/grievances to the grievance cell or anti-corruption cell or directly to the chief engineer (PWD).

Further N. Biren emphasised that in the last six months of the new government, the government has tried its level best to fulfil several basic requirements and aspirations of the people of the State. The government gave its priority to have good road communications connecting to the district headquarters and other parts of the state, he added.

He continued that the government welcomes any positive criticism or suggestions to have better governance and development in the State. A ‘Bhoomi Puja’ would be performed for the construction of two new bridges above the Barak river and Makru river at Barak on  October 12.

On the occasion, he would be inspecting the road conditions of the National Highway, he added.

Stating the significance of ‘Imphal Evenings’ in the trouble-torn State like Manipur, N. Biren said that a review meeting was conducted for the regulation of road traffic, electrification, vehicles parking etc. in consultation with the traffic police and other departments for the smooth functioning.

Seeking people’s co-operation and support to make ‘Imphal Evenings’ successful, he appealed to the people to avoid throwing garbage on road and not litter around the area. N. Biren expressed his happiness that people have civic sense towards making clean city.

Chief secretary, R.R Rashmi, additional chief secretary, J. Suresh Babu, chief engineer, Kh. Temba and officials of PWD attended the press conference.

IMPHAL | Oct 8

The All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM) strongly condemned the locking of the tribal research institute (TRI) office by a student organisation for their misgiving over appointment and functioning of a Tribal department.

A statement issued by information and publicity secretary of ATSUM, Mikah Kamei, said whatever student body’s grievances and misgiving must be addressed to the government or take legal course.

The issues of the current problems over appointment of deputy director TRI has been explained to the public through print media on August 23, 2017 and ATSUM stand by that statement, it said.

The unwanted action of shutting down of TRI office and character assassination of a senior tribal IAS officer is condemned in the strongest term, it said.

Stating that the tribal offices and officers must not be targeted for lack of employment by some vested individual, ATSUM also questioned the rational of perpetrating group, AMSU.

It is very unfortunate that the TRI offices which was locked on October 6 right under the nose of the government is yet to broke opened despite instant appraisal to the government for initiation of action, it lamented.

Nowhere in any department has such incident occurred without the interference of the government except TRI wherein the rules of law is being given to an organisation, it contended.

Taking serious notes on this present issue, ATSUM draws the attention of the government and AMSU and do the needful to open the locked doors before 12 noon of October 9, failing which it warned to take its own course of action.

From Our Correspondent

KANGPOKPI |Oct 7

Joint secretary, ministry of home affairs (Northeast in-charge), Satyendra Garg visited the designated camp of Kuki National Front, Ebenezer Peace Camp at Natheljang in Kangpokpi district today.

People accorded a symbolic traditional welcome when the Satyendra landed in a chopper at around 9:45 am at Kholjang TAYA Playground with trumpets blow and gong beating while the Kuki chiefs presented him a traditional shawl ‘Saipikhup’ apart from the Kuki women garlanding the senior IPS officer. 

Satyendra, who is also the first person to chair the Kuki political dialogue with the Centre was accompanied by J. Suresh Babu, additional chief secretary (Home), government of Manipur, who is also the chairman of Joint Monitoring Groups of the SoO groups along with other department concerned officials.

The Kuki leaders of various civil voluntary organisations under the aegis of Kuki Inpi including leaders of Kuki National Front greeted the visiting team at Ebenezer Peace Camp Satyendra signed on a monolith erected by the KNF in memory of his historic visit before having a brief interaction and visiting the camp to take stock of the situation.

Satyendra said that his idea to come here is to take stock of the camp, how it looks like, how it runs and how people live here.

He continued that it is right that political talks has been initiated after eight years of signing SoO but the government has appointed separate interlocutor talks without much delay. He said he is working on it while visiting the state and studying the issues interacting with the Kuki leaders.

“Whatever issues about the Kukis, the government is very much aware about it that is why we started the political dialogue and the Centre will do whatever is just from every section of society including the Kukis”, maintained Satyendra.

He also said that Centre wants solution as it is the key to prevail peace and the ultimate key to development and everything is for peace.

KNF general secretary, Aaron Kipgen, who is also the spokesperson of UPF said that the reason why they took up arms and fight for statehood is because they have a political issue. “We feel our custom, culture and tradition would be preserved within the framework of Indian Constitution in free India”, he added.

He continued that over the years the government considered the issue of Kuki arms movement, the signing of SoO and confining at the designated Camp as law and order issue which is why the problem have not been resolved on time.

“I want to reiterate today that the issue of Kuki arms movement, the signing of SoO and confining at designated camp is not a law and order problem but a political issue”, asserted Aaron Kipgen.

He also recalled that when Suspension of Operation was signed eight years back in 2008 and the designated camp inaugurated in 2010, the aspiration of SoO cadres as well as the Kuki people in general was to start political talks by initiating a peace process.

“But, things were not going that fast as expected and we have been waiting for more than 8 years for the political dialogue to be initiated”, he added.

The Kuki Inpi Manipur also submitted a memorandum to the joint secretary apprising him to bring an honorable solution to the Kuki political issue while appreciating and conveying gratitude of the Kuki people to the government of India for initiating the much awaited political dialogue with UPF and KNO.

From Our Correspondent

THOUBAL | Oct 7

Voting was at least 90 percent at Thoubal and Kakching district for the 5th general Panchayat elections conducted by Manipur State Election Commission.

Under Thoubal district, three ballot boxes were set ablaze at Irong and numbers of tear gas shells were fired at Salungfam to control an unruly mob, while ballots boxes and other items kept in the polling booth were scattered by miscreants at Sangaiyumfam.

In today’s election, the voters came out from early morning and stood making long queues at several polling booths under the heat of the day and cast their votes.

Around 10.30 am at the polling station number 2/3/16, Irong Thockhom Moirang LP School under Leisanghthem GP, three ballot boxes were torched after an altercation took place amongst the supporters of two ward member candidates

On the other hand, ballot papers were ripped and torn at polling stations number 8/20/10, 4/20/11 and 8/20/7 of Sangaiyumfam part II under Khangabok assembly constituency, after altercations took place amongst supporters of different zilla parishad candidates over the allegations that proxy votes were being cast.

It is expected that the district election officer, deputy commissioner, Thoubal district L. Nabakiswar may recommend re-polling of these mentioned polling booths.

Meanwhile, at the polling station number 5/12/4 installed at Salungfam Kangyebam Thokchao LP School under Heirok assembly constituency, altercations took place between zilla parishad candidates which resulted in hurling of stones between groups.

The situations worsened as the skirmish resulted in making attempts to snatch ballot boxes inside the booths.  A police force led by SP, K Meghachandra, Thoubal district police immediately rushed at the spot to control the situation which was getting out of hand.

Several tear gas shells were fired and mock bombs exploded in attempts to control the unruly mob.

After the police were able to control the situation, additional forces were brought in and the voters were made to resume the voting. It may be mentioned that the election was conducted peacefully at Thoubal district overall.   

The five teams of women polling personnel who went to perform their election duties for the first time, and the remaining polling personnel returned safe and sound at Thoubal DC complex around 9 pm.

As for Kakching district, the election was performed without any incident of violence and unwanted incidents where the votes were casted at the rate of 90 percent by the voters.

The ballot boxes which will decide the fate of the candidates were moved to the strong room of Thoubal district complex and Kakching Indoor stadium of Kakching district.

The votes will be counted on October 11.    

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 7

Five persons including two minors, one zilla parishad candidate and two voters sustained injuries in violence during the polling for panchayat elections at Kairang Khomidok in Imphal East district today.

Sources said clashes broke out between the workers of two rival zilla parishad candidates of Kairang Khomidok gram panchayat.

The two minor boys are identified as Zahir Khan, 14 son of Md. Bellan of Kairang Mamang Leikai and S. Talim, 17, son of S. Suresh of Khumidok Umang Leikai, the zilla parishad candidate as Badur Rehman alias Babu, 37, son of Abdul Rehman of Khurai Khomidok and the two voters as Kabir Hussen, 25, son of Siraj Ahamad of Kumidok Umang Leikai and Sahid Khan, 19, son of Ibouchou of Kairang Mamang Leikai.

Zaihir got bullet injuries on his left leg, Talim was hit by a stone in the head. The candidate was also hit by a stone in the neck, Kabir was hit by tear gas on his right leg and Sahid got hit by a stone in the head and currently all the five of them are treating at Public Hospital, Hatta.

Speaking to IFP, the injured candidate said that he was hit by a stone at the backside of his neck while he was coming out from the polling station number, 7/19/7 at Heingang Mayai Leikai Primary School at around 10.30 am.

He claimed that his opponent, S. Lebel who is currently the BJP, OBC Morcha’s president was given security escort but his escort was taken back by the government after he filed his election nomination.

“Such action clearly shows that the government is bias in the panchayat election, added Badur.

The other four individuals including the two minors got injured during clashes between the supporter of the two rival candidate at polling station number, 7/18/12 at Kairang Awang Leikai Pimary School.

By A Staff Reporter 

IMPHAL | Oct 7

“Heisnam Kanhailal’s theatre is neither national nor international but it’s universal. It is unfortunate that recognition of his contribution in the world of theatre has come too little, too late.”

This was stated by Prof. H.S. Shivprakash of Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi while delivering the memorial speech on the occasion of the first commemoration of the theatre exponent, Heisnam Kanhailal at Lamyanba Sanglen here yesterday, organised by Kalakshetra Manipur.

Elaborating on the works of Kanhailal, Prof. Shivprakash said though the former had no proper formal education he was able to create a language of his own. “Kanhailal’s vision was very complex. Sometimes it was difficult for him to express in the language we speak”, he added.

Prof. Shivprakash also pointed out that Kanhailal possessed the quality of a prophetic thinker. “He was not someone who loves to project himself. It was his firm belief that one should rather speak through the body of creative work created”, the professor maintained.

Further he said Kanhailal had so much to teach about theatre and art; however, there were a few to learn.

“He would not hesitate to go into the interior areas of the country to teach theatre. The theatre community of the world, not only of this country, must be grateful to him for planting his seeds of wisdom in many parts of India”, said Prof. Shivprakash.

He lamented that had the book written by Kanhailal, ‘Theatre of the Earth’ been published some 30 years earlier, the name of the latter would be among the world theatre luminaries.

Speaking as the chief guest of the observation, minister for art and culture, L. Jayentakumar said he knows very little about the work of Kalakshetra and Kanhailal.

“But in my brief encounter with uncle Kanhailal when he was alive I could notice that his philosophical outlook was very sharp”, he said.

1. Sushila, director of art and culture was present at the function as the president.

Later, N. Premchand, Y. Rajendra and U. Rojio presented papers on the life and works of Kanhailal. The session was chaired by Prof. L. Joychandra.

Floral tributes were paid by the dignitaries and invitees to the portrait of Kanhailal as a mark of respect on his first death anniversary.

From Our Correspondent

JIRIBAM | Oct 7

Voting was peaceful in Jiribam panchayat areas and no major problem was reported. Voter turned out across 57 polling station of the constituency covering the six panchayat areas of Jiribam district was high.

Among the 57 polling station, polling station numbers 1/2/1,1/2/2,1/1/2,1/1/3, 1/1/5 and 1/1/6 were assigned to women polling officials which is first of its kind held in Jiribam Panchayat elections.

As reported, polling station 1/3/4 of Lalpani part – I, Jiribam recorded highest turnout of 95. 28 percent with 283 votes polled out of 297 total votes while polling station 2/6/1 of Goukhal, Jiribam recorded lowest voting percentage of 68.66 percent with 309 votes polled out of 450 total numbers of voters among the 57 polling stations of Jiribam Panchayat election.

Out of 23058 voters in the Jiribam panchayat area, voters cast their votes briskly, recording an over percentage  around 81 percent vote.

At the time of filling this report at around 8:15 pm all the polling officials reported at the deputy commissioner office,

Jiribam with their respective polling station ballots boxes with votes where the fate of 10 Zilla Parishads in two seats, 25 Pradhans in six seats and 153 wards members candidates in 96 seats will be decided on October 11.

SENAPATI | Oct 7

Parents are the true visible God and the first teacher to educate their children said Kayisii while addressing the parents’ day celebration of St. Xavier’s High School, Makhan as chief guest today.

Continuing his speech, the minister for tribal affair and hills and fisheries said compulsory education for all sections of the society is the urgent need of the hour. He encouraged the parents to take extra care to send their children to schools and give them education in best possible way.

Kayisii lamented that the attitude of most parents in the hills towards imparting quality education to their children is still very deplorable. Most parents are illiterate, and they do not have the aptitude, resources, time and energy for their children’s education which is a big challenge for our society particularly for the tribal people, he said.

There is a need to improve the economy and lifestyle of the people in the hills to enable them to impart proper education to their children said the minister. 

Further Kayisii pointed out that there is still a huge gap of educational avenues and facilities between the hills and the valley in the state. “We need quality teachers to teach our children especially those in the interior villages”, said the minister.

There is an urgent demand for better educational facilities and technical know-how in the hills, he said, adding examination centres like matric and other competitive exams are very much lacking in the hills.

He pointed out that in this regard his ministry in coordination with the departments concerned of the government will try to bridge the gap, while appreciating the management of the school and the Catholic missionaries for introducing educational institutions and other quality disciplines in the region.

Athem Muivah, DC Senapati, K. David Khrasi, EM-ADC, Senapti, Henry K. Hriini, retired commissioner, founding member of the school, S.P. Peter Khrasi, founding member and first head master of the school along with hosts of dignitaries attended the occasion as functional president and special guests, respectively. 

Earlier in the day, Kayisii also inspected the landslide affected area of Maram Centre village and interacted with the local community leaders and the affected families. The minister listened to the affected local communities and shared the concern to preserve the nature and plant more trees to maintain ecological balance in the area.

IMPHAL | Oct 7

The National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) organised today ‘One day interactive session with the centre in-charges of Urdu, Arabic and CABA-MDTP centre of Manipur’ at Hotel Imphal, North AOC.

In the inaugural session of the interaction, the governor Najma Heptulla attended as the chief guest. Director of the NCPUL Prof. Syed Ali Karim and social activist Mohd. Afzal were also on the dais.

Appreciating for organising the programme in Manipur where less number of people speak and understand Urdu, the Heptulla appealed for more such programmes in the Northeast. The 10 percent of the sanctioned budget must be utilised in this area within the existing schemes of the respective department as per the guidelines of the government of India, the governor added.

She also shared her experiences pertaining to Urdu language.

The main thrust of the today’s programme was to have an interaction with representatives of Centres in-charge in order to understand their problems and look for solutions for giving benefits to target group.

It may be mentioned that NCPUL is an autonomous regulatory body under the ministry of human resourced, government of India. It is the main authority of Urdu language and education in India. And CABA MDTP is one of the significant initiatives of the NCPUL.

It has been the transformation of Urdu speaking population into part of the employable technological workforce in the age of technology and computer. It not only provides job opportunity to Urdu speaking people but also increases computer literacy rate of the country including Manipur.

To transfer the information technology to language and making Urdu speaking boys and girl’s part of employable technology work force of India, NCPUL establishes computer applications, business accounting and multilingual DTP centres (CABA-MDTP) across the country. There are around 40 centres in the State.

The programme which was attended by president and secretary of the BJP minority wing, Manipur State, representatives from different centres, students etc. had many interactive sessions too.

IMPHAL | Oct 7

The chief secretary has notified that a large number of employees did not attend office today on the ground of Panchayat election in rural areas.

A release signed by R.R Rashmi said very few of them have applied for special causal leave as per the general administration department’s order no. 8/20/77 – R and L/Pt dated September 12.  All administrative secretaries/HoDs are advised to compile list of such officials who absented from duty, on the basis of biometric records of the attendance register and furnish to the secretary (GAD) by October 9 without fail, it added.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 7

Chief minister Nongthombam Biren Singh announced that a scheme will be introduced in the state soon to cater healthcare expenditure for the BPL families. He also announced that a special scheme will also be launched for differently abled persons.

He made this statement at the inaugural function of the two-day 22nd annual conference of the Association of Surgeons of India, Manipur State Chapter which started today at RIMS Jubilee Hall. The conference is held under the theme “Trauma: Early intervention.”

Addressing the delegates of around 300 and other representatives from various parts of the country, he said that he would do his best for the betterment of healthcare services in the state and that the framme a legislation to protect hospitals and medical personnel after discussion with the health department.

He said that Manipur is no less than other states if compared to the availability of good doctors, the only difference is that the state has no proper equipment to compete with the other states. He also said that he would do his best to bring better health financing system, revitalisation of health infrastructure and to promote health tourism.

He urged doctors of the country that the world today is talking of robotic surgeries and tele-surgeries which are certainly great advances, but losing human touch in the process of dispensing health services is not appreciable.

Biren urged the medical fraternity to empathize with patients and their worried parties while discharging their valuable services.

Urging the medical fraternity to keep up the spirit of humanity and kindness which are the true traits of a healer, the Minister also stated that the Government would not tolerate any harassment meted out to health personnel and damage caused to medical properties.

He also assured that he would do whatever possible in his capacity to ensure that shortage of infrastructure and technologies do not come in the way of providing quality healthcare to the people.

Director of RIMS, Professor A. Santa Singh, director of JNIMS, professor Th. Bhimo Singh, secretary of ASI Quarter, Dr. Ebenesh Bensam and president of ASI Manipur State Unit, Dr. Kh. Palin Singh attended the function as presidium members of the function.

The souvenir published annually was also released by the dignitaries.

Secretary of ASI Manipur state chapter, Dr. Ak. Ibohal Singh while giving a report for the year 2017-18, he said that many initiatives have been taken so far, the state chapter is on a plan to organise a rural surgery camp in the hill districts especially Ukhrul and Churachanpur. The camp is likely to be conducted in December or January 2018.

IMPHAL | Oct 7

A team of journalists was threatened by locals when trying to collect news for booth capturing at Khumidok Arapti Upper Primary school at around 1.30 today. At around 11 am at Khumidok, 7/18, workers of rivals candidates clashed causing injuries to some people.

Journalists rushed to the station following information of trouble and when they were trying to take photos and videos, a man shouted not to take photographs and footage.

When journalists identified themselves the man said permission should be taken first using abusive language.

He said “we are having a worst time and candidates are spending hung amount of money. Press cannot do anything to solve the problem.”

He shouted “non-sense press. We do not bother aabout press. Kill press men.” When the scribes were about to leave the man came with a stick and tried to attack the journalists from behind. The team escapeed unhurt.

The team includes journalists from ISTV news, Impact TV news, Sanaleibak and Imphal Free Press.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 6

Tamenglong and Longmai Districts Citizens’ Welfare Forum has called a bandh on October 11 from 6am to 6pm along the national highway-37 (Imphal-Jiribam road) and halt to all national projects working along the highway.

Speaking to media persons today at Manipur Press Club, Imphal the forum’s president, Rangam Thoitak said that the Tamenglong Autonomous District Council (ADC) is currently in defunct.

He said a memorandum was submitted to the chief minister N. Biren on September 24 and the forum’s ultimatum yesterday.

But till today the government has not taken up any action so the forum has decided to call 12 hour bandh on the national highway-37, added the president.

Thoitak said the delay in making a full fledged ADC has caused immense sufferings to the public indirectly or directly.

He added since the local-self government is not there the public cannot approach any of their representatives for their problem.

There is the issue of fuel adulteration, shortage of LPG in Tamei area as benefits of PMUY schemes are not made available to the people of Tamei and frequent accidents on national highway-37 are taking place, continued Thoitak.

Mentioning yesterday’s accident that took place between Khongsang and Rengpang that cazused injuries to two persons, the president said that the forum extends its full support to the Nungba Area Joint Committee to book the culprits at the earliest and rectify the negligence of the highway task force.

He asked “who will receive the chief minister when he visits Tamenglong if there is no local self governance in Tamenglong?”

The forum warned of shutting down of all government offices beginning from district administration if the government still fails to redress the exigency of the burning public issue.

Longpi village chairman, Kailal Gangte who attended the press meet appealed to the government to hand over the NFSA agent of Longpi area to the Longpi Area Chiefs’ Association.

Next round of talk on Nov. 10, Imphal venue proposed

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Oct 6

The fourth round of tripartite talks on district creation issue was held today at DRDA hall Senapati district headquarters between the government of India, government of Manipur and United Naga Council (UNC).

During the talk the UNC raised their objection to the constitution of boundary commission by the state Government. The state Government representatives agreed to place the objection raised by UNC, before the state government for further consideration.

The boundary commission was constituted in June following objections raised by the UNC.

It was also agreed that the previous proceedings will be upheld by the party concerned.

Today’s talks was chaired by Satyendra Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India while the state Government was represented by agriculture, veterinary and animal husbandry minister, V. Hangkhanlian, tribals and hill areas development and fisheries minister N. Kayisii and education and Labour minister Thokchom Radheshyam Singh, Additional Chief Secretary, Dr. J.Suresh Babu and Commissioner (Works), K. Radhakumar. The 11-member UNC side was led by its President Gaidon Kamei.

The next round of tripartite talk will be held on November 10.

Additional chief secretary, Dr. J. Suresh Babu, Commissioner (Works), K. Radhakumar and joint secretary (NE), MHA, Government of India were the official representatives of the Government.

UNC was represented by its president Gaidon Kamei, general secretary, UNC, S. Milan, President, All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur and President, Naga Women’s Union, Asha Wungnam.

Leaders from various civil organizations of Nagas were also present in today’s Tripartite Talk.

In a related development Indrakumar Soibam, secretary general of Siva Sena state unit, said that the tripartite talk is suspicious and seems to have a hidden agenda.

“UNC has clear agenda that there is no rollback of their stand on newly created districts. UNC has links with NSCN-IM and it knows about the framework agreement. Even the central government knows. Then what is the use of state government participating in this talk,” he asked.

The next talk should be held only between the state and the central government, he reiterated.

Meanwhile, Pherzawl District Development Committee (PDDC) has said that the creation of seven new districts in Manipur is a milestone in the history of Manipur and the people of Pherzawl district appreciate the government for the creation and steps to develop it.

A statement issued by its chairman, H.K. Joute said that PDDC which was formed to spearhead the demand for the development of Pherzawl district fully understands the sentiments and emotions behind the stand of the United Naga Council (UNC) on the seven new districts.

It said that PDDC is well aware of the issues concerning the current stand of UNC with regard to apparently “haywired” political structure and environment structure in the state.

“However, in spite of understanding fully the issues and concerns of the Naga peoples of Manipur as voiced by its apex body, we ask the UNC to tune in to the sentiments and aspirations of the people of the newly formed Pherzawl district”, it added.

It further said, “While there is no question that the UNC is genuinely concerned about the welfare and protection of tribal rights, it is also to be understood that consensus needs to be taken from all tribal communities. As often happens, while intentions may be good, outcomes necessarily are, especially when all stakeholders’ aspirations and views are not in tandem.”

“Whilst many of the newly formed districts may surprise many, the people of Pherzawl district on the other hand have been strongly demanding a district and as such came as no surprise. It is in fact the crux of our aspirations and as such, we have no cause for complaints for better or for worse”, it added.

It further appealed to all dry and sundry to desist from including Pherzawl district in their demands for rollback.