1st Martyrdom Anniversary of Mayopam, Ramkasing

The first Martyrdom Anniversary of martyred Mayopam Ramror and Ramkasing Vashi was Sunday observed at TNL Ground, Ukhrul with Naga public leaders from across the State paying solemn homage to the two departed souls at the Martyrdom Memorial Graveyard …

The first Martyrdom Anniversary of martyred Mayopam Ramror and Ramkasing Vashi was Sunday observed at TNL Ground, Ukhrul with Naga public leaders from across the State paying solemn homage to the two departed souls at the Martyrdom Memorial Graveyard Source Hueiyen News Service R Lester Makang

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Transporters threaten to stay off highways

Transpor ters operating on Imphal Jiribam highway as well as Imphal Dimapur highway will stay off the two highways if the State Government does not take up concrete actions to repair the broken Barak Bridge within the next couple of days Source The…

Transpor ters operating on Imphal Jiribam highway as well as Imphal Dimapur highway will stay off the two highways if the State Government does not take up concrete actions to repair the broken Barak Bridge within the next couple of days Source The Sangai Express

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‘Inordinate delay’ in council formation irks Tangkhul bodies

Ukhrul based civil organizations of the Tangkhul community while vehemently condemning the deliberate and inordinate delay of the council formation in Chandel and Tamenlong districts have fervently urged the Congress led SPF Government to respect the s…

Ukhrul based civil organizations of the Tangkhul community while vehemently condemning the deliberate and inordinate delay of the council formation in Chandel and Tamenlong districts have fervently urged the Congress led SPF Government to respect the sentiment and aspirations of the tribals Source Hueiyen News Service

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Protesting Bills drafted for protection of indigenous people Tribal student bodies’ call 12 hrs total bandh

The Kuki Students’ Organi zation GHQ , the All Naga Students’ Association Mani pur and both ATSUM groups have jointly called a 12 hrs bandh in all hill districts of the State with effect from 6 am tomorrow Source The Sangai Express

The Kuki Students’ Organi zation GHQ , the All Naga Students’ Association Mani pur and both ATSUM groups have jointly called a 12 hrs bandh in all hill districts of the State with effect from 6 am tomorrow Source The Sangai Express

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Chandel JAC appeals for restoration of transformer

After normal supply of power in about seven villages of Chandel district headquarters came to a grinding halt for almost 20 days due to the damaged caused to a transformer near Chandel SDO office, the newly formed JAC on Electricity Consumers Welfare P…

After normal supply of power in about seven villages of Chandel district headquarters came to a grinding halt for almost 20 days due to the damaged caused to a transformer near Chandel SDO office, the newly formed JAC on Electricity Consumers Welfare Programme ECWP Chandel District headquarters appealed to the MSPCL to replace the same with one having higher voltage at the earliest Source Hueiyen News Service

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Endorsed total bandh in the hill districts of Manipur – E-Pao.net

Endorsed total bandh in the hill districts of ManipurE-Pao.netThe bandh will also be effective in all the Thadou areas of Manipur. We also appeal to the general public to cooperate on these issues as the Bills attempt to trample on our rights and cauti…

Endorsed total bandh in the hill districts of Manipur
E-Pao.net
The bandh will also be effective in all the Thadou areas of Manipur. We also appeal to the general public to cooperate on these issues as the Bills attempt to trample on our rights and caution all that any untoward accident/incident occurring during

and more »

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1st martyrdom anniv of Mayopam Ramror and Ramkasing Vashi observed

IMPHAL, August 30: The first martyrdom anniversary of Mayopam Ramror and Ramkasing Vashi was observed today at Tangkhul Naga Long Ground, Ukhrul with Naga public leaders from across the State

IMPHAL, August 30: The first martyrdom anniversary of Mayopam Ramror and Ramkasing Vashi was observed today at Tangkhul Naga Long Ground, Ukhrul with Naga public leaders from across the State paying solemn homage to the two departed souls at the Martyrdom Memorial Graveyard.

Various Naga tribe leaders led by United Naga Council (UNC) president Gaidon Kamei pledged to carry forward the Naga political struggle undeterred by the oppressive tactics of the State government.

Ramror and Vashi were amongst the thousands of people rallying to demand immediate revocation of 144 CrPC promulgated at Ukhrul town for more than a month and withdrawal of the police commando from the district on August 30 last year. These demands followed the killing of one ADC member and pre-dawn raid on the office of NSCN (IM) at Ukhrul. They died on the spot and several others were injured when the police fired at the crowd.

In his welcome address, Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) president V Weapon Zimik applauded the courage of the two young martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Nagas. He reiterated the chronology of Naga movement and the ceaseless collective struggle of the people till date.

UNC president Gaidon Kamei unveiled the Martyrdom Monumental Tombstones erected at TNL Ground in honour of late Mayopam Ramror and Ramkasing Vashi who were shot dead by Manipur Police commandos during a mass peace rally at Wino Bazaar in Ukhrul on August 30 last year.

Thousands became teary with emotion and the two young widows wept inconsolable when one of the Christian`s most solemn and emotional songs `Nearer to thee` began to rent the air at TNL Ground as leaders from different Naga organizations and tribe Hoho leaders of Manipur laid wreaths at the tombs of the two UNC martyrs.

Wives of the two martyrs also offered floral tributes to their respective departed husbands. Rossetina wife of late Mayopam Ramror and Chonmiwon wife of Ramkasing Vashi were both pregnant with their first child at the time when their husbands were shot dead.

Giving the Martyrs Day message, UNC President Gaidon Kamei in his address said that Ramror and Vashi will be remembered forever in the history of the Nagas for their solemn sacrifice.

He further said that the subjugating force of Manipur government will never be able to suppress the Nagas`™ right to self determination. He then expressed vehement condemnation of the killing of the two innocent rallyists.

Kamei also reiterated the pledge to take forward the Naga struggle with unity and oneness, while urging all factional Naga national leaders to forget past mistrust and come together for the collective Naga cause.

Leaders and representatives from ANSAM, NWU, CNPO, NPMHR, NPO and ZB delivered solidarity messages. A two-minute silence was also observed during the observance in remembrance of the two departed martyrs.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/1st-martyrdom-anniv-of-mayopam-ramror-and-ramkasing-vashi-observed/

Police clampdowns on hunger strikers continue; three more pulled up

IMPHAL, August 30: Yet another three volunteers of Democratic Students`™ Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) Thoubal Branch, who had launched hunger strike at Thoubal Wangmataba Devi Mandap demanding implementation of Inner

IMPHAL, August 30: Yet another three volunteers of Democratic Students`™ Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) Thoubal Branch, who had launched hunger strike at Thoubal Wangmataba Devi Mandap demanding implementation of Inner Line Permit System or equivalent act in the State, have been arrested by police yesterday around 11.50 pm.

The arrested hunger strikers are Arun Mayengba, 18 (social & culture secretary of Kha Manipur College Kakching); Naorem Indrakumar, 17 (debate & extension secretary of Chouyaima Higher Secondary School) and Waikhom Bidyaswor (student of Little Star Higher Secondary School, Thoubal Haokha).

After they were picked up from the hunger strike venue, another six volunteers of the students`™ body came out and launched the agitation at the same venue from today morning around 7.30.

They are identified as Thokchom Radharani Devi, 12 (Class VI student of Lalit Madhop Sharma High School, Khongjom) daughter of Th Tombi Devi of Khongjom Mamang Leikai; Ningombam Sanathoi Devi, 14 (Class IX student of Eureka High School, Khongjom) daughter of N Bijoy of Sapam Mayai Leikai; Lisham Joyratna Chanu, 17 (Class XII student of Chouyaima Higher Secondary School) daughter of L Premchandra of Thoubal Kiyam Leikai; Mayengbam Malemnganba Singh, 14 (Class VIII student of Eureka High School) son of M Robin of Langathel Thingel Leikai; Laishram Rabikanta Singh, 14 (Class IX student of Eureka High School) son of L Kuber of Sangaikhong Sabal Leikai and Nepram Anand Singh, 14 (Class IX student of Eureka High School) son of N Jugeshor of Langathel Thingel Leikai.

According to them, they will continue the hunger strike stir till an acceptable bill to safeguard the indigenous people from the unchecked influx of outsiders in the State is passed by the government.

Male and women vendors at Thoubal Market are manning the student hunger strikers.

A total of 19 volunteers of DESAM Thoubal Branch have been pulled up by police for launching hunger strike agitation since August 19.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/police-clampdowns-on-hunger-strikers-continue-three-more-pulled-up/

Haipou Jadonang`s final resting place rendered insignificant

IMPHAL, August 30: Even as the death anniversary of Haipou Jadonang Malangmei is being widely observed in different part of the north-eastern region every year, the freedom fighters`™ final resting

IMPHAL, August 30: Even as the death anniversary of Haipou Jadonang Malangmei is being widely observed in different part of the north-eastern region every year, the freedom fighters`™ final resting place at his native village Puiluan (Kambiron) under Nungba Sub-division of Tamenglong district apparently has been rendered insignificant due to the government`™s apathy.

Though the State government observed the 84th death anniversary of the leader in grand scale on last Saturday with unveiling of his bronze statue at Keishampat, his native village Puiluan remained in dark without electricity for over two months now.

The fact of living without electricity however failed to deter the villagers from keeping alive the spirit of Jadonang`™s historic sacrifice.

The Jadonang Memorial Trust Puiluan also observed the death anniversary of the late freedom fighter with much fervour.

Marking the day, villagers from different parts of the districts visited the burial site and gave offering in traditional ways. A formal function was also organised at the Jadonang Memorial Hall wherein entertainment programme like traditional dances, musical performances were organised till late in the evening with electricity supplied by the NF power company.

Speaking to media persons, Pounamgai Kamei, former president of Jadonang Memorial Trust, rued the way Puiluan village has been left on their own mercy.

He continued that Puiluan village in every aspect is lagging behind, adding that the only community hall in the village was also built by the village with contribution from various sources.

`Puiluan is a historic place for the fact that it is the birth place of Haipou Jadonang Malangmei yet the government has done nothing significant for this village especially to preserve the elements relating to Haipou Jadonang`, Kamei lamented.

The burial site of Haipou Jadonang and its surrounding located around 2 km atop Puilon village is lying in sorry state.

Cracks have appeared on stone plaque built on top of Jadonang`™s grave besides remains surrounding the burial sites relating to Jadonang are gradually reclaimed by nature.

It has been informed that the resting place mostly remained isolated from rest of the world due to the rugged landscape.

The road is accessible by foot or four-wheeler vehicle but during raining seasons, it can be accessible only by foot.

According to RK Athuan, they have already approached the government requesting to restore the only legacies of Haipou Jadonang in 2006 yet nothing has been done so far.

He further appealed to the government to help in restoring the sites before there are nothing left to preserve.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/haipou-jadonangs-final-resting-place-rendered-insignificant/

Tribal student bodies call 12-hr bandh from 6 am today

KANGPOKPI, August 30: Several tribal student organizations namely the Kuki Students`™ Organization (GHQ); All Naga Students`™ Association Manipur (ANSAM) and both the ATSUM groups have jointly called a 12 hour

KANGPOKPI, August 30: Several tribal student organizations namely the Kuki Students`™ Organization (GHQ); All Naga Students`™ Association Manipur (ANSAM) and both the ATSUM groups have jointly called a 12 hour bandh in all the hill districts of the State with effect from 6 am of August 31.

A joint statement signed by Seiboi Haokip, general secretary of KSO-GHQ; Alexander Huten, general secretary of ANSAM; Maun Tombing, president of ATSUM and Joseph R. Hmar, acting president of ATSUM said that the 12 hour bandh was called against the introduction of the Protection of Manipur Peoples Bill, 2015; Manipur Land Revenue & Land Reforms (Seventh Amendment) Bill, 2015 and Manipur Shop & Establishment (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015 in the special session of the State Assembly on August 28.

It pointed out that the bills have overlapping of Article 371 C and Manipur Hill People Administration Regulation Act, 1947 and reiterated that various tribal organizations had apprised the government of their stands in this regard.

While holding the State government and the Hill Areas Committee responsible for any problematic circumstances arises out of the bandh, the tribal student bodies in the statement made it clear that the tribal people will not remain silent spectators when their rights are threatened by such way of systematic infringement.

Mention may be made that various tribal bodies including KSO, ANSAM and ATSUM have released several press statements separately in the past few days voicing their total resentment over the three bills introduced in the Assembly on August 28 following an agreement between the State government and JCILPS on August 25.

The tribal bodies claim that the bills will directly or indirectly affect the tribal interest.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/tribal-student-bodies-call-12hr-bandh-from-6-am-today/

ILPS hunger strikers number rises to 157

IMPHAL, August 30: The number of hunger strikers in the state demanding implementation of the ILP System or similar act to safeguard the indigenous people is still rising. The total

IMPHAL, August 30: The number of hunger strikers in the state demanding implementation of the ILP System or similar act to safeguard the indigenous people is still rising.

The total as of today has reached 157. This includes those who had been arrested by concern authorities but are still hunger-striking.

Of the 157 hunger strikers, 41 are juvenile. Another 36 girls and 35 boys are fasting in the Imphal East, Imphal West and Thoubal districts. Among them one man is 80 years old.

While the DESAM Thoubal district unit had 10 new volunteers including three girls this morning at 7.30am, replaced their earlier hunger strikers who were arrested at 1 in the morning.

The new volunteers are identified as Class VI Lalit Madhop Sharma Higher Secondary School Thockchom Radharani 12, daughter of Th Tombi; Class IX Eureka High School Ningombam Sanathoi 14, daughter of N Bijoy; XII Chaoyaima Higher Secondary School Lisham Joy Ratana Chanu 17, daughter of L Premchandra Meetei; Class VIII Eureka High School Mayengbam malemnganba Singh 14, son of M Robin; Class IX Eureka High Svhool Laishram Rabikanta 14, son of L Kuber and Class IX Eureka High School Nepram Anand 14, son of N Jugeshor Singh.

A Class VIII student of Nongpok Maheikol Brahmapur Aribam Lekai launched hunger strike at Singjamei Wangma Kshetri Leikai waiting shed. The student was identified as Sapam Subolchand Singh 12, son of S Sushilkumar, he started hunger strike from 7 am onwards after the earlier faster 80 years old Aribam ongbi Sanahanbi was arrested by police today morning 5.30 am.

On the other hand, in the round-the-clock relay hunger strike of Thangmeiband another 7 new strikers including three woman strikers replaced yesterday`™s group today from morning 10 am.

The new strikers were identified as Sagolsem Tembi Devi 65, wife of Late S Surchandra Singh; Oinam Manileima Devi 65, wife of Late O Maimu; Nongthombam Dina Devi 52, wife of N Robin Singh; Maimom Ashis Meitei 21, son of M Chaoba Meitei; Suraj Sougaijam 22, son of S Rajen; Thiophil Maibam 21, son of M Boby and Bikram Wangkheirakpam 22, son of W ongbi Kabita Devi.

Another two faster also launched hunger strike after earlier fasters were arrested by police today evening 1 pm at Khongman Mangjil Oriental Club.

The two new faster were identified as Takhelchangbam Kishan 17, son of T Bokulchandra Sharma and Takhelchangbam David Sharma 17, son of T Brajmani Sharma of Brhamapur Mangjil Mamang.

Altogether 13 new hunger strikers are fasting for the ILP System to be implement or similar act in the state.

31-Aug-2015 / Our Staff Reporter / 0 Co

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/ilps-hunger-strikers-number-rises-to-157/

Stranded truckers deplore sluggish repair work by BRTF

IMPHAL, August 30: Truckers stranded along the National Highway-37 due to a defect of the Bailey bridge over the Barak River have strongly deplored the sluggish nature of repair work

IMPHAL, August 30: Truckers stranded along the National Highway-37 due to a defect of the Bailey bridge over the Barak River have strongly deplored the sluggish nature of repair work carried out by the BRTF.

Meanwhile, official source from BRTF informed that the repairing work will be completed within 20 days at least.

Over 100 trucks are still stranded on both sides of the Barak Bridge and are waiting for the completion of the bridge.

Speaking to media persons, one of the stranded truck drivers revealed that they have been stranded for over five days waiting to cross over. However, they are seeing almost no progress, he said.

He further revealed that even as workers came to the bridge, the work actually last just few hours without much progress.

Since the bridge encountered the problem on August 26 afternoon, the workers only able to strap two metal chains to hold the damage part of the bridge.

According to Chanchal Sarkar, Junior Engineer of BRTF, they are trying their best to repair the bridge and added that it could probably be over within 20 days.

Claiming that the damage inflicted to the bridge was due to passing of overloaded trucks, he further revealed that this was the second time that the bridge had encountered technical difficulties since its opening November last.

This time the damage was inflicted by a truck and 12-wheeler truck carrying 600 cement bags altogether weighing 30 tons, he contended.

It is worth noting that the capacity of the current Bailey bridge is only 24 tons officially.

The truckers expressed disappointment over the failure of the State government to intervene into the matter till date.

According to the transporters, the government has officially sanctioned only 25 tons for ten-wheeler trucks and 31 tons for 12 wheelers when the capacity of the bridge is only 25 tons.

`It is like we are not allowed on this bridge`, said the driver on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, with the tense situation prevailing in the State in the wake of various issues, the transporters are transferring their goods with the help of labours from one end to the other.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/stranded-truckers-deplore-sluggish-repair-work-by-brtf/

Tangkhul CSOs threaten stir over ADC installation

IMPHAL, Aug 30: Vehemently condemning the deliberate and inordinate delay of the council formation in Chandel and Tamenglong district, several Tangkhul frontal civil organizations based in Ukhrul under the aegis

IMPHAL, Aug 30: Vehemently condemning the deliberate and inordinate delay of the council formation in Chandel and Tamenglong district, several Tangkhul frontal civil organizations based in Ukhrul under the aegis of Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) have urged the concerned authority to install the council in the two hill districts on or before September 7 failing which the organizations will resort to launch intense form of agitation.

In a joint statement issued to the press today, the organizations asked the Congress-led SPF government to respect the sentiment and aspirations of the tribal community of the State.

The democratic alliance of Chandel and Tamenglong is formed by two political parties namely the NPF and BJP with clear majority to form council house and had staked claim on many occasions. However, without any reasons whatsoever the Congress led SPF government has deliberately trampled upon the democratic rights of the tribal people which amount to murder of democracy, it said.

Decrying the malicious intent of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh and Deputy CM Gaikhanagm for such unwarranted action, the tribal organizations warned that any further suppression of democratic rights of the tribal shall not be tolerated in any manner and will not remain as mute spectator.

It appealed to all those people at the helm of state of affairs to rectify the anomalies committed immediately and initiate corrective measures in the interest of one and all.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/tangkhul-csos-threaten-stir-over-adc-installation/

AMMSU`s allegation against party on NSCN(IM) accord malicious: AR Khan

IMPHAL, August 30: The allegation made by the All Manipur Minority Student Union (AMMSU) at the BJP at such crucial juncture in the history of the Northeast region, is like

IMPHAL, August 30: The allegation made by the All Manipur Minority Student Union (AMMSU) at the BJP at such crucial juncture in the history of the Northeast region, is like spitting venom to incite distrust among communities over IM-Government of India peace accord for some individual gains, clarified AR Khan, Convenor State level committee Minority Affair BJP Manipur Pradesh.

He further clarified that even the peace accord framework has not been openly placed before the public by the Central government and under the circumstance, such charges made to a political party is very unfortunate and strongly condemn.

He said that people of Manipur should not believe or endorse the statement of AMMSU. He also said AMMSU is not apex body of Muslim student union and it is not mandated by the Muslim community.

AMMSU is an organisation backed by some individuals for their own interest, he further charged.

Various civil society and political parties of state seriously view the peace accord and are careful misunderstanding or any communal tension does not erupt among our own bloods brothers, he said.

The BJP Minority Morcha is worried that such irresponsible statement of the students might end up disturbing the strained atmosphere of peace and harmony in the state.

AR Khan further said that the AMMSU is unlikely to have discussed with any Muslim leaders of integrity before giving out such provoking statement.

He further appealed to everybody to not take the AMMSU statement seriously as they are not a genuine organisation mandated by the Muslim community.

He further clarified again that during the period of signing the peace accord, a team of BJP Manipur Pradesh led by Th. Chaoba was in New Delhi. After getting the information of the accord just inked, the state BJP team met RN Ravi who is the interlocutor of the Naga talks.

He said RN Ravi assured to BJP team that the peace accord will not disturb the geographic boundary of Manipur or any other Northeast state.

The BJP Minority Morcha demanded the AMMSU to clarify on what basis it plans to boycott the BJP, he said.

He said the talks are a government matter, and the state BJP has no power to interfere.

At this critical juncture such statements might lead to wrong interpretations and with grave consequences, he said.

AR Khan further charged that the AMMSU is an opportunist, and advised the organisation to keep silent if it is unaware of the ground reality.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/ammsus-allegation-against-party-on-nscnim-accord-malicious-ar-khan/

12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh today – Nagaland Post

12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh today
Nagaland Post
Three influential tribal student organisations, All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM), All Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM) and Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) have called for a 12-hour hill districts bandh from 6 am on Monday in
Manipur: Hills district bandh on MondayAssam Times

all 2 news articles »

12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh today
Nagaland Post
Three influential tribal student organisations, All Tribal Students' Union Manipur (ATSUM), All Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM) and Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) have called for a 12-hour hill districts bandh from 6 am on Monday in
Manipur: Hills district bandh on MondayAssam Times

all 2 news articles »

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12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh today – Nagaland Post

12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh today
Nagaland Post
Three influential tribal student organisations, All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM), All Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM) and Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) have called for a 12-hour hill districts bandh from 6 am on Monday in

and more »

12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh today
Nagaland Post
Three influential tribal student organisations, All Tribal Students' Union Manipur (ATSUM), All Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM) and Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) have called for a 12-hour hill districts bandh from 6 am on Monday in

and more »

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNFZ5VcxogLgjSFuPsQC04LNA4RRDQ&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&cid=52778939947536&ei=bwzlVchlj9tpyoOKwAM&url=http://www.nagalandpost.com/ChannelNews/Regional/RegionalNews.aspx?news%3DTkVXUzEwMDA4NTc5OQ%253D%253D

Debating the ILP Bills

At last the three interrelated Bills, meant to check influx of migrants into Manipur will be discussed and their passage sought in the Manipur Legislative Assembly today. In all likelihood,

At last the three interrelated Bills, meant to check influx of migrants into Manipur will be discussed and their passage sought in the Manipur Legislative Assembly today. In all likelihood, they will get past the Assembly, but that hardly is the end of their journey to becoming Acts, for they will have to also have the assent of the Governor to become law. It must be said it is one of those rare strokes of genius that the Bill was split into three, so that even if the most disputed of them dealing with the controversial cut off year for identification of non-domiciles and their deportation, (incidentally the only new Bill among the three), is delayed, the other two, which are amendments of existing laws, are not bogged down along with it. It is our opinion that if these two amendments, which will effectively prohibit land ownership transfers to non-domiciles in the valley districts are assured, the major part of the problem at hand would have been resolved. In the hill districts, these two would be redundant for the original laws being amended are applicable only to the valley districts only. There have been some apprehensions expressed that the new provision in the amended MLR&LR Act by which the government can bring any strip of land in the state within the purview of the law would result in these strips of lands becoming valley land. This defies logic. Suppose Tamenglong town decides to have the Act to make land have bankable value, how would that make Tamenglong part of the valley?

The first of the three Bills which seeks to bring in a permit system for migrants is the one which would cover all the districts in the state, but as we are now witnessing, this is being objected to by some civil organisations in the hills. This being the case, it would perhaps be a good idea to introduce a clause in the Bill that if the hill population do in earnest dislike the proposed permit system, the law would be open to further amendments to make it applicable only in the valley districts. Or it could be the other way round. The Bill could exclude the hills from its purview from the very onset today, but with the provision that if the hills do come to a consensus on the matter, the law could be amended in the future to include the hill districts as well. As it is, the hill districts are already protected, therefore in effect it is only the valley districts which may actually need it, as for instance when the state`™s rail connection in anticipation of the `Act East Policy` becomes operational, and with it the feared influx of migrants.

In the maddening cacophony of posturing and sloganeering in various statements made by different sections of the state`™s civil society, there is also a distinct voice which seems to think the doors of the valley districts, which together form only 10 percent of the state`™s total area, should be left open for anybody to walk in and out at pleasure, while the doors of the hill districts should not only remain tightly shut to the valley dwellers, in particular the Meiteis and Meitei Pangals, but bolted still tighter by newer special arrangements. It is astonishing that anybody can see this as a durable formula for peace. Asymmetric empowerment structures are necessary to level out playing fields, but cannot by any stretch of imagination be limitless, and as we have witnessed in these troubled weeks, the explosion of sentiments in the valley is in a way a statement that this limit has been crossed. The valley too now is demanding protection, with legitimacy in our opinion.
A brief look at the history behind the different administrative models for the hills and the valley here should be interesting. The administrative mechanism evolved in Manipur by the British after they brought the kingdom under them in 1891 is almost a replication of their administrative model in their older province of Assam where they had revenue provinces administered directly by modern land revenue laws, and the non-revenue hills simply left `unadministered`. By the Government of India Act 1919, these hills beyond its `Inner Line` were marked off as `Backward Tracts` and left largely unadministered but under the Governor`™s direct rule and not the provincial government`™s. We also know that by the GOI Act 1935 the `Backward Tracts` were re-categorised into `Excluded Areas` and `Partially Excluded Areas`. The `Excluded Areas` were not given any representation in the Provincial Government, which had been given much more democratic powers by then, with the condescending explanation that these hills were still not ready for democratic governance. The `Partially-Excluded Areas` were however given some representations in the Provincial Government, but by nomination of the Governor and not by election. In Manipur, the British did not draw an `Inner Line` separating the hills from the valley, but there is a great deal of replication of the provisions, as we can see. The provincial government ruled the valley districts, but the hills were kept under the President of the Manipur State Durbar, PMSD, who played the role of the Governor in a British province. Although not identical, this was the broad pattern of governance the British took to every one of their newly acquired territories.

What about the hill valley relationship before the British? This can be the theme of another editorial, but it definitely would be wrong to imagine it would have resembled the modern state which administers its borders as intensely, or even more intensely, than its core.

Leader Writer: Pradip Phanjoubam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/debating-the-ilp-bills/

Recent rain damages estimated at Rs 600 crore; ADB Thoubal-Kasom Khullen Road by 2017

IMPHAL, August 30: The recent massive monsoon rainfall together with what is claimed to be a tectonic movement under the earth has severely affected the eastern belt of the state

Work Minister Ratankumar inspecting Thoubal Kasom Khullen Road on Sunday.

Work Minister Ratankumar inspecting Thoubal Kasom Khullen Road on Sunday.

IMPHAL, August 30: The recent massive monsoon rainfall together with what is claimed to be a tectonic movement under the earth has severely affected the eastern belt of the state of Manipur, said Minister works and Transport Dr Kh Ratankumar Singh during a tour at Kasom Khullen to take stock of the natural calamity and progress of newly declared National Highway Thoubal Kasom Khullen Road today. He said that this kind of natural calamity is once witnessed in the state 60 years back but the intensity this time was more severe.

Sinking of roads, destruction of buildings and houses, flooding of irrigational land and homestead lands, collapse of more than 11 bridges is estimated to cost more than 600 crores, Minister asserted and further said that restoration work is under progress and it may take time to completely restore the destruction caused by Mother Nature.

Comprehensive reports regarding the loss from natural calamity have already been prepared and after assessing it, restoration will gear up in full throttle, Minister Works said.

It may be mentioned that due to massive rainfall during the month of July caused sinking of land affecting the road condition.

The ongoing work on Thoubal Kasom Khullen Road under the aegis of Asian Development Bank and ABCI Infrastructures Pvt. Ltd. has to go through new cutting of road stretching 1.5 Km due to sinking of road of 250meters length at Molnem Village, 38Km from Thoubal.

Road condition beyond Kasom Khullen which does not fall under the work jurisdiction of ADB is lying unattended having more than 10 landslides disconnecting interior villages.

Presently the interior villagers are totally cut off with the only communicable facility through mobile phones.

To least establish connectivity, Minister Works assured the villagers to make excavators and other tools for the purpose available and to start clearing the roads from tomorrow.

Minister Works and Transport Dr Ratankumar Singh also announce he would introduce `Geo Grid`™ to reinforce the road for longitivity and said that an extra amount of Rs. 11 crores will have to be spent to restoring the road construction initiated by ADB.

Project Director ADB Yumnam Joykumar who accompanied the tour said during a press briefing that the completion target for the 47.25 Km Thoubal Kasom Khullen road is by September 2017 but he is confident to complete the project by early 2017 if nature favours.

He said that due to 250meters sinking road at Molnem 40 villages have been disconnected and assures full restoration it within five days.

In regard he said though the landslides beyond Kasom Khullen are beyond their jurisdiction, he would still extend support by deploying two excavators in towing away the mud.

He further stressed that to reinforce the road condition, the introduction of `Geo-grid`™ and planting of special grass species from Africa named `Victory Grass`™ which grows in extreme environments will be successful.

MLA Phungyar Victor Keishing who is also Parliamentary Secretary Tribal Development during the interaction with the villagers assured the restoration of the road. He urged the villagers to have faith in the Government and its agencies.

He also appealed the Church authority and Village Authority to educate the villagers for scientific jhumming to at least minimise such natural calamity in future.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/recent-rain-damages-estimated-at-rs-600-crore-adb-thoubalkasom-khullen-road-by-2017/

Manipur: Hills district bandh on Monday – Assam Times

Manipur: Hills district bandh on Monday
Assam Times
The All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur, All Naga Students’ Association Manipur and Kuki Students’ Organisation calls for 12 hour bandh in all the hills district of Manipur from 6 am to 6 pm on August 31 to protest against the The Protection of Manipur
12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh todayNagaland Post
Tribal student bodies call 12-hr bandh from 6 am todayKanglaOnline
Protesting Bills drafted for protection of indigenous people Tribal student The Sangai Express

all 4 news articles »

Manipur: Hills district bandh on Monday
Assam Times
The All Tribal Students' Union Manipur, All Naga Students' Association Manipur and Kuki Students' Organisation calls for 12 hour bandh in all the hills district of Manipur from 6 am to 6 pm on August 31 to protest against the The Protection of Manipur
12-hour Manipur hill districts bandh todayNagaland Post
Tribal student bodies call 12-hr bandh from 6 am todayKanglaOnline
Protesting Bills drafted for protection of indigenous people Tribal student The Sangai Express

all 4 news articles »

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNEPYnkuIQm-tNEksTPmDYYhnkhZwA&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&cid=52778939947536&ei=4pDjVdDnNo_bacqDisAD&url=http://www.assamtimes.org/node/14751

Orphans tie rakhis to jawans in Manipur – Oneindia

OneindiaOrphans tie rakhis to jawans in ManipurOneindiaImphal, Aug 30: Children of an orphanage tied rakhis (sacred thread) on the wrists of the jawans who in turn pledged for their safety at Tiddim road here on the occasion of Rakhsa Bandhan. Sweets w…


Oneindia

Orphans tie rakhis to jawans in Manipur
Oneindia
Imphal, Aug 30: Children of an orphanage tied rakhis (sacred thread) on the wrists of the jawans who in turn pledged for their safety at Tiddim road here on the occasion of Rakhsa Bandhan. Sweets were distributed by the jawans of the Assam Rifles among …

and more »

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNEOTx-EF1t1RnsnYlSB0_mbGfpnhg&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&cid=52778939797012&ei=bv7iVfi3CobTaK6HifAC&url=http://www.oneindia.com/india/orphans-tie-rakhis-to-jawans-in-manipur-1853814.html