Sadar Hills demand will “resurrect the past wounds”, says ANSAM

KANGPOKPI, November 3: The demand for a full-fledged Sadar Hills District is not based on the principles of justice for all and laws of nations while it will only reopen

KANGPOKPI, November 3: The demand for a full-fledged Sadar Hills District is not based on the principles of justice for all and laws of nations while it will only reopen the wounds of the past and will become a thorn in the flesh of our solidarity movement remarked All Naga Students’ Association Manipur.

Seth Shatsang, president ANSAM said in a press communiqué that creation of a full-fledged Sadar Hills District is not a political solution and the political future of our Kuki brothers and sisters while adding that the need of the hour is to focus on strengthening and solidifying our solidarity movement for our common future.

He also reminded the Government of Manipur of the various Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) signed between ANSAM, NSF (Naga Students’ Federation), and other Naga organizations in 1981, 1992, 1996 and 1998 with regard to the creation of a full-fledged Sardar Hills District while warning that abrogation of the MoUs will be viewed with all seriousness and as a continuing ploy of the State to weaken the indigenous/tribal organizations and communities’ solidarity.

He asserted that true healing of past wounds could occur only in a genuine solidarity movement firmly grounded on universal principles of human rights and humanity while adding that reverting to positions and demands that are fragmented and not based on democratic principles and of justice for all will not deliver us from the cycle of conflict sustained by the State.

Seth Shatsang also said that the passing of the three legally flawed and controversial Bills¯the Protection of Manipur People Bill 2015; Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (seventh amendment) Bill 2015; and Manipur Shops and Establishment (second amendment) Bill 2015) provided a good reason for the indigenous/tribal peoples of Manipur to come together and stand up for their immediate cause.

The Bills are bias and not motivated by universal human rights and democratic principles and it is for this reason that the indigenous/tribal peoples in Manipur arose in solidarity for their just cause, he added.

He further said that the indigenous/tribal organizations and communities have emerged as having the capacity to unite for a right cause.

However, one must not forget that having come together is only the beginning of a journey to address the historically rooted injustices and a search for peaceful co-existence firmly founded on a vision for just-peace, Seth Shatsang added.

He continued that coming together of indigenous/tribal peoples in Manipur must translate into a solidarity movement guided by their quest for truth and justice while adding that no movement can solidify overnight and no movement can withstand divisive forces of a state if it is not driven by their thirst for truth and justice.

He also said that a solidarity movement can only emerge victorious if it is clear of the principles it must be founded upon and added that it is only then that a solidarity movement will be able to establish a mutually acceptable fair terms of political and social cooperation.

He continued that it is only through a solidarity movement that one can build up common sympathies and begin to truly share their pains and pride, or even regrets together and transform their histories of conflict into one of mutual understanding and social and political cooperation.

All Naga Students’ Association Manipur (ANSAM) also appeals to all the indigenous/tribal organizations and communities to be vigilant of the divisive forces and be conscious of the basis for a solidarity movement.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/sadar-hills-demand-will-resurrect-the-past-wounds-says-ansam/

KIM apprises Centre’s interlocutor of Kukis’ stand on Peace Accord

KANGPOKPI, November 3: The Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body of the Kukis, met the signatory of Naga Peace Accord RN Ravi, who is also the Interlocutor of Indo-Naga Peace

KANGPOKPI, November 3: The Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body of the Kukis, met the signatory of Naga Peace Accord RN Ravi, who is also the Interlocutor of Indo-Naga Peace Talks at Hotel Classic Grande, Chingmeirong Imphal today.

A four member delegate of KIM including its president Thangkhosei Haokip, general secretary Khaimang Chongloi, speaker Ch Ajang Khongsai and RT Akhel, president Aimol Tribe Union spent nearly an hour to apprised RN Ravi of various Kuki issues including the state of mind of Kuki people over the Naga Peace Accord and political dialogue with KNO and UPF.

Khaimang Chongloi said that we once again clearly informed RN Ravi about the standpoint of Kuki people over Naga Peace Accord and reminded him of our earlier representations to the Prime Minister and Home Ministry as well as highlighted our meeting with him recently at Sadar Patel Bhavan, New Delhi on August 20.

“There is no change in our standpoint over Naga Peace Accord and it remains the same”, said Khaimang Chongloi.

We also highlighted the compelling assimilation of Aimol community into Naga Community by the NSCN-IM and the recent kidnapping of one Aimol and Baite man by the NSCN-IM whose whereabouts is still unknown said Khaimang Chongloi.

KIM also underlined the forceful adaptation of four Aimol villages by NSCN-IM in full combat dress and sophisticated weapon thereby rendering untold misery like unbearable demand to the people and condemned the same in the strongest term he said.

We also pleaded RN Ravi for immediate intervention of the Centre for the safe release of the two victims added Khaimang Chongloi.

He further said according to the Haipi Declaration No 5 clause (a) and (b) we had mailed representation to the Centre about KIM’s directive to KNO and UPF to abrogated SoO if the Centre failed to hold political dialogue on or before October 31 while probing about the KIM representation to RN Ravi.

We also told RN Ravi that since the deadline set for the Centre to hold political dialogue with KNO and UPF had passed we have contemplated to take up an extreme form of agitation.

KIM also asked RN Ravi as to why the Centre has failed to expedite political dialogue with KNO and UPF even after the State government had recommended for appointment of Interlocutor and holding political talks with the KNO and UPF?, Khaimang added.

However, RN Ravi responded that on account of the ongoing intense campaign for Bihar election the process of political talks with KNO and UPF has been delayed said Khaimang Chongloi.

RN Ravi also assured us that since the election campaign program at Bihar have been culminated today political dialogue with KNO and UPF could have taken place within a few days, added Khaimang Chongloi.

Nevertheless, we warn the Centre government of intense agitation by the Kuki people if it fails to appoint an interlocutor and initiate political talks with KNO and UPF at the earliest, Khaimang Chongloi added.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/kim-apprises-centres-interlocutor-of-kukis-stand-on-peace-accord/

Civil organizations want E Tomba as Deputy Labour Commissioner

IMPHAL, Nov 3: Several civil society organizations have appealed for reinstating E Tomba as the deputy labour commissioner. He had been transferred from the said post on October 24, 2015

IMPHAL, Nov 3: Several civil society organizations have appealed for reinstating E Tomba as the deputy labour commissioner.

He had been transferred from the said post on October 24, 2015 by an order of the deputy secretary (DP), govt. of Manipur and the charge has been handed over to another official. In the regard, and decrying the transfer as unjust, Loyalam Construction Workers Welfare Union, Kangmong Manglak, Kangmong Nupi Chaokhat Thourang Lup, Kangmong Nupi Angang Yaipha Lup, Patsoi Yaorang Youth Development Club and Luker Mahila Mandal. Thourang Lup.

The organizations in different press releases said that the former deputy labour commissioner, Elangbam Tomba Singh is also the incumbent secretary of the Manipur Building Construction Workers Welfare Board and his transfer from the mentioned post is not timely and unjust. And as such, the transfer is not acceptable to the civil organizations. It was mentioned that E Tomba Singh is to retire in 2018 and he is among one of the most experienced persons to handle the state of affairs of the Labour department. It was requested by the said organizations to reinstitute E Tomba to his earlier post for more progressive conduct and for the humanitarian organizations to expedite their works for the public.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/civil-organizations-want-e-tomba-as-deputy-labour-commissioner/

Two killed in blast identified; official confirmation awaited

IMPHAL, November 3: The two killed in yesterday’s bomb blast in front the residential gate of Wangkhem MLA Keisham Meghachandra Singh have been identified although official confirmation is still awaited.

IMPHAL, November 3: The two killed in yesterday’s bomb blast in front the residential gate of Wangkhem MLA Keisham Meghachandra Singh have been identified although official confirmation is still awaited.

Although, police sources insist that the concerned police station is yet to receive any official claim on the identification of the two bodies from anyone including their families, other reliable sources have identified the two.

It may be mentioned that an IED exploded near the gate of the Yairipok Bishnunaha residence of Wangkhem Constituency MLA Keisham Meghachandra Singh late last night around 9:15 following which a mutilated body was found along with a charred two-wheeler initially.

However, police sources confirmed that the mutilated bodies of two persons were found from the blast site and not just one as was reported earlier.

The same sources also confirmed that none of the family members of the two found dead at the spot have made any official claim or identified the bodies till this afternoon, however, the two bodies were shifted to JNIMS morgue late last night for post mortem.

The police sources also informed that some individuals have been picked up and are being interrogated in connection with yesterday’s blast however, since a police investigation is underway, much details cannot be divulged.

According to police sources, the charred vehicle found from the blast site has been officially identified as a Pleasure moped and to be black in colour with Regd No. MN 01/Y 1756 and is registered in the name of a Nepali woman from Salu Village in Senapati district.

On the other hand, other sources identified the two killed in the blast as Md Daulat, 30, son of Md Atao Rehman of Yairipok Tulihal Toupokpi and Nameirakpam Boboi, 30, son of N Sarat Singh of Yairipok Poirou Khongjil.

Sources also informed that although both are residents of Yairipok, Md Daulat is said to be presently staying at Hatta and that Boboi was staying in a rented room at KR Lane with his family.

Boboi is said to be an auto-rickshaw driver and supports his family, according to the sources. His mother is also a worker, while his father is a labourer for the charcoal sellers at the New Checkon crossing and delivers charcoal bags to customers using a rickshaw.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/two-killed-in-blast-identified-official-confirmation-awaited/

UNLF active workers arrested: PRO Police

IMPHAL, Nov 3: A combined team of district police commandos Imphal West and 12 Bihar Regiment conducted cordon and search operation and arrested two active workers of UNLF on October

IMPHAL, Nov 3: A combined team of district police commandos Imphal West and 12 Bihar Regiment conducted cordon and search operation and arrested two active workers of UNLF on October 30, said a press statement of the PRO Police.

It said the operation was conducted acting on a reliable information about the presence of some active members of UNLF organisation in and around Mongsangei Kongjeng Leikai area with a view to commit prejudicial activities like extortion, transportation of weapons etc.

The statement further identified the two as Yumnam Chiranjit Singh alias Phajaba alias Robert, 40, son of Y Ingobi Singh of Konjeng Leikai Kounathabi and Sinam Santa Singh alias Abungo, 35, son of S Tombi Singh of Thangmeiband Sinam Leikai.

It said investigation revealed that they had served demand letters to various businessmen, government employees, the general public and pradhans, etc.

A case has been registered at Singjamei Police Station and investigation is going on, it continued.

Further according to the statement, on October 31 based on a specific information, a team of Narcotics and Affairs of Border Police Station, Manipur arrested one drug smuggler namely Thangkhanhau Zou, 51, son of (L) Tutzathang Zou of P Kamdou Veng PS, Churachandpur from Oksongbung Lairanjam Leirak Machin near Citizen Club Moirang, Bishnupur district.

Three kgs of opium was seized from his possession, it said.

A case has been registered at Narcotics and Affiars of Border Police Stations, Manipur and investigation is going on, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/unlf-active-workers-arrested-pro-police/

Online Postal Life Insurance launched

IMPHAL, November 3: The Manipur Postal Division today launched its online Postal Life Insurance today. Speaking to media at a press conference held at Manipur Postal Headquarter, director (Post), Vinod

IMPHAL, November 3: The Manipur Postal Division today launched its online Postal Life Insurance today.

Speaking to media at a press conference held at Manipur Postal Headquarter, director (Post), Vinod Kumar said it’s a mile stone in path of technology induction with objective of fastest and reliable insurance service to all the people and it will give a great boost for social security among the people.

The director further congratulated all Manipuri people as well as members of the Manipur Postal Family.

Now people in Manipur can do their PLI related works like deposit of premium of their policies in online environment, he said.

He said in the new online environment, periodical premium for insurance can be deposited in any Post Offices in Manipur, further not only in Manipur, it can be credited anywhere in India at any CSI Mc Camish equipped Post Office.

Imphal HPO is the first Post Office in Manipur to be given this status, he said.

Director intimated that at present there are more than 600 POs in India are working online, very soon, other POs will also join this new status.

Very soon, Churachandpur MDG, DM College SO, Lilong SO and Lamlong SO will follow suit and before the end of the month, maximum number of Post Offices in Manipur will be under McCamish, he said.

He added that at present there are 4629 PLI and 7886 RPLI number of policies in Manipur.

He added that before coming to this moment all information like insurer’s details, signatures and related documents were digitised and uploaded on Central Server.

He said that a Central Processing Centre (CPC) has been established in Imphal HPO which will scrutinise process and upload the digitized records in a prompt manner and people in Manipur will enjoy “Online Insurance Service”.

He declared that the objective is to provide all Manipur people the best insurance services with fastest speed. Director once again congratulated all Manipuri people and requested them to opt for maximum no of PLI and RPLI to ensure future investment.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/online-postal-life-insurance-launched/

Absent Civic Citizenship

A basic difference between the West and the East in attitude towards ideal citizenship is rather pronounced and fits into a familiar stereotype. Once again, it is about a rather

A basic difference between the West and the East in attitude towards ideal citizenship is rather pronounced and fits into a familiar stereotype. Once again, it is about a rather closed-ended, but definitely tangible materialistic outlook towards the ways of the society, pitted against another that leans towards a more abstract and by that virtue, intangible and extended notions of society and social structures. Hence, in the Western context one often gets to hear individuals talk of model citizenship as constituting of paying ones taxes honestly, respecting rule of law etc. Interestingly, the list of virtues includes one other quality, namely that of donating to charity. Philanthropy is structured into the Western society and many explain this not just a matter of large-heartedness or selflessness, but more a question of what many refer to as enlightened self-interest. The benefits of the money an individual gives to charity will on the one hand directly benefit the needy, but in an indirect and roundabout way, they would come to the donor as well, not just in a metaphysical way, but also very much materialistically. Plenty of examples for this but first a little more elaboration on the structure of this philanthropy. In Italy’s income tax law for instance has a clause whereby a tax payer can give 0.8 percent of his income tax due to any of a list of government recognized religious charitable organisations. If the individual does not wish to do so, he or she will have to in any case pay the amount to the government. Many actually pay the 0.8 to religious charitable organisations (as IFP found out during a trip some years ago) and the country being 95 percent Catholic, a majority of this public charity go to Catholic organisations, Charitas being just one of the most prominent, and a name familiar to many developing countries. Now to say that 0.8 percent of the income tax base of a developed nation is respectable is an understatement and this is the kind of money available with this nongovernment sector to do charitable work, including setting up schools and hospitals for the weaker sections, and not the least to spread the religion. The general attitude of suspicion often associated with the funds of Catholic missionaries have should be allayed somewhat by this knowledge that much of it come from voluntary donations. For the West, donating to charity is an intuitive individual strategy for achieving social harmony.

This enlightened self-interest is seen in other Western countries too. The USA for instance must rank top in terms of the number of extremely rich trusts and foundations, funding charitable projects, not just within the country but internationally. It is also true that a good many the top bureaucrats in New Delhi have children studying in the US on some fellowship provided by these American trusts. Understandably, if one’s son or daughter is studying in America on American scholarship, or is working there after the programme, one would most likely have at least something nice to say about America. The implication is, this charity has a bearing on international diplomacy and politics too. The enlightened self-interest here is obvious. Former chairman of Chrysler Lee Iacocca in his irreverent and crass criticism of Henry Ford-II his former boss and later sworn enemy, (in his autobiography: “Lee Iacocca”) puts this in a crass and distasteful way when he claimed that Ford was interested in uplifting the working class and creating a middle class so that they would have the money to buy his cars. Iacocca’s statement may have been a result of personal spite, all the same he outlined a deep and basic psychology behind Western philanthropy – you get as much as you give.

Contrast this with the Eastern notion of a model citizen. The mantra all of us have heard and internalized from early childhood, is that good citizenship basically constitutes of respecting one’s parents, elders, teachers, etc. A good man here donates (makes sacrifices) to temples in the hope of divine rewards, but forgets about making a contribution to charity from which orphans and destitute can benefit. The civic nature of citizenship is treated as secondary, and one which would follow as a corollary of the first set of values. Citizenship is no longer something the structure of the state can help mould, but a spiritual, a non-materialistic goal. Public charity plays little part in this scheme of things too. Hence, while India has many super rich citizens, charitable trusts rich enough to fund social projects in a big way still remains negligible.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/absent-civic-citizenship/

People remembers Malom incident victims

IMPHAL, November 2: People today remembered the victims of the November 2, 2000 Malom incident when personnel of the Assam Rifles had gunned down 10 civilians. Families of the victims,

IMPHAL, November 2: People today remembered the victims of the November 2, 2000 Malom incident when personnel of the Assam Rifles had gunned down 10 civilians.

Families of the victims, friends, supporters and others offered floral tribute during the memorial service observed at the memorial site erected at the place of the incident.

Photos of the victims were placed at their memorial site located on the western roadside of the Tiddim Road at Malom Tulihal Boroi Makhong since around 8 in the morning for the people to pay their respect.

The observation was organised by the Ten Immocents Deceased Families Committee which was formed by the family members of the 10 victims.

The 10 victims of the incident are Tokpam Shantikumar, a student and son of T Somorendro Singh of Malom Tulihal Awang Leikai, 2nd driver of FCI Kangujam Bijoy Singh of Leimapokpam Khunpham, Oinam Sanayaima Singh of Nambol Naorem, farmer Amakcham Raghumani Singh of Nambol Naorem, a National Child Bravery Award winner in 1988 Sinam Chandramani Singh son of S Tonu Singh, Malom Megha High School assistant teacher Sinam Robinson Singh, son of S Tonu Singh of Malom Tulihal Makha Leikai, student Soibam Prakash Singh of Malom Tulihal Awang Leikai, jeweller Kshetrimayum Inaocha Singh son of Ksh Ibochou Singh of Malom Tulihal Awang Leikai, Leisangbam Sana Devi, 64, wife of (L) L Tomba Singh of Kabaw Wakching and Revenue department employee Gurumayum Babu Sharma son of (L) G Tomba Sharma of Lairenjam.

It may be mentioned that on the fateful day, a UG group had attack the Assam Rifles team by triggering an IED explosion following which the Assam Rifles personnel gunned down the 10 innocent persons at the spot.

Last year, after family members of the victims filed a case, the Court had made the government pay Rs 5 lakhs each as compensation to the victim families.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/people-remembers-malom-incident-victims/

Complete digitisation of Food Security Act beneficiaries list by Nov 15: Minister

IMPHAL, November 2: The Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (CAF&PD), Minister M Okrendro has given strong instruction to all the district authority heads to complete the digitisation Process of

IMPHAL, November 2: The Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (CAF&PD), Minister M Okrendro has given strong instruction to all the district authority heads to complete the digitisation Process of Beneficiary list by November 15 to ensure the smooth implementation of the National Food Security Act due to be fully operational from January 1, 2016.

A preparatory meeting was convened today afternoon starting from 2.30 at the conference hall of secretariat south block chaired by the Minister and attended by all administrative heads of the entire district including Deputy Commissioners of Ukhrul, Thoubal, Bishnupur and Senapati. Besides, District Supply officers from other Sub-division including Jiribam, Kangpokpi.

The meeting minutely reviewed the progress of the ongoing digitisation process of beneficiaries and consequently the Minister asked the officers present to complete the digitisation by November 15 without leaving behind any deserving household/beneficiary.

During the meeting the officials also presented their current status report of their ongoing digitisation process.

It is learnt that Imphal east has so far covered 67 percent, 30.53 percent in Imphal west, 46.30 percent in Thoubal, 22.69 in Bishnupur, 55.58 percent in Churachandpur, 75.66 percent in Kangpokpi, 67.32 percent in Senapati, 71.86 percent in Ukhrul and 57.24 percent in Chandel.

The Minister also asked the officers to be cautious while preparing the beneficiaries and avoid listing beneficiaries from family with economically sound background in the priority household list.

Under the scheme, the beneficiaries will be avail with rice at 3 rupees per Kg, Pulses at 2 rupees per Kg and other coarse grains at one rupees per Kg.

However, the implementation of the scheme will not affect the benefits given to AAY beneficiaries.

Further during the meeting the Minister also asked the officials to spell out the difficulties being faced by the authority in their digitisation process and assured to give necessary assistance without any delay ranging from funds and other equipment required.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/complete-digitisation-of-food-security-act-beneficiaries-list-by-nov-15-minister/

NEFIS coordinates 12-hour hunger strike across country to mark 15th year of Sharmila`s struggle

IMPHAL, November 2: The North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS), in discussion with Irom Sharmila, organized today a twelve-hour hunger strike to mark the 15th year of her heroic struggle

IMPHAL, November 2: The North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS), in discussion with Irom Sharmila, organized today a twelve-hour hunger strike to mark the 15th year of her heroic struggle against Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). A statement of the NEFIS said it successfully organized the twelve-hour hunger strike across various cities among which include Delhi, Gwalior, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Kokrajhar (Assam), etc.

A sit-in protest along with the hunger strike was organized at Jantar Mantar (Delhi) today where large numbers of NEFIS members, North East students, as well as representatives from various progressive and democratic organizations collected to condemn the enforcement of the long abused Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), it said.

It is to be noted that on November 2, 2000 a terrible tragedy shook the Manipur when 10 civilians were shot dead by paramilitary forces at a local bus-stop in Malom, Manipur, it said.

Among the deceased was an 18-year old National Bravery Award winner.

The massacre triggered angry protests across Manipur and led to Irom Sharmila going on her epic fast a few days later, it said.

Justice, however, continues to be denied in the case of the Malom massacre and many other such cases. Meanwhile, Irom Sharmila continues to be heckled by cases filed against her and periodic arrests, it said.

NEFIS has hence pledged to take forward the nation-wide struggle against the draconian and anti-people Armed Forces Special Powers Act, it added.

Eminent Human Rights activist, Babloo Loitongbam and Women Rights Activist Maya John, ensured their presence to extend their solidarity to the hunger strike/collective sit-in, according to the statement.

Babloo Loithongbam highlighted the dastardly way in which Indian State continues to justify AFSPA and force-feed Irom Sharmila citing reasons of prevention of suicide, it continued.

Maya John termed AFSPA a draconian law which serves just as a ploy to curb the democratic rights of people in so-called `Disturbed`™ regions without any compunctions or fear of being implicated in a judicial probe, it said.

It should be noted that AFSPA has been enforced in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as in the North East states where it is serving as a useful weapon for the Indian State to curb the democratic rights and freedom of the people of these regions. Under the draconian provisions of AFSPA the government`™s judgment on why an area is found to be `disturbed`™ is not subject to judicial review, it said.

The statement continued that there can be no prosecution, suit or any other legal proceeding against anyone acting under this law, except with the sanction of the Central government.

Moreover, this controversial law provides dangerous impunity to the armed forces for detaining, using lethal force and entering and searching premises without warrant, it said.

Since armed soldiers trained in combat and in war have no training in civilian law or policing procedures, atrocities under AFSPA are inevitable and are growing, it claimed. Hence, NEFIS demands that AFSPA should be repealed at the earliest from all states, thereby ending the miseries of the people, it said.

AFSPA has been condemned nationally and internationally by all democratic and justice loving people. Even certain government-appointed commissions (including the recent Justice Verma Committee) and human rights organizations have pressed for the withdrawal of the Act. The continued enforcement of the Act has ensured continued protests.

This is why NEFIS`™ call for a hunger strike on November 2 elicited a phenomenal response, it said. At its Jantar Mantar sit-in protest, NEFIS called upon all the different communities of the North East, as well as people across the country to raise a unified struggle against AFSPA.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/nefis-coordinates-12hour-hunger-strike-across-country-to-mark-15th-year-of-sharmilas-struggle/

Governor approached to take up befitting action against `corrupt officials` of the Vety and Animal Husbandry dept

IMPHAL, Nov 2: The department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry has been charged of rampant corruption. Several financial irregularities have been detected in the process of various projects and schemes,

IMPHAL, Nov 2: The department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry has been charged of rampant corruption. Several financial irregularities have been detected in the process of various projects and schemes, promotion and illegal transfer of funds, misappropriation etc.

The Governor of the State has been approached with the complaint along with statistical data and with reference to the official reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General.

The complainant namely, S Bino Devi of Haoreibi Mayai Leikai has submitted the complaint today.

The copy of the complaint has also been submitted to the Chief Minister, minister Govindas who is in charge of the said department and chief secretary O Nabakishore.

It was prayed by the complainant that the above initiate immediate action for initiating a suo- moto enquiry under a high powered committee to re-verify the irregularities of funds misappropriation, illegal transfer of funds to personal accounts, irregular payment of pension/salary, irregular appointment by promotion of officers etc and to book the guilty officers as per the law.

The complaint mentions that the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of 2015 have highlighted “Irregular maintenance of cash book`™ by the DDO of the Veterinary directorate by erasing and overwriting of the entries made in the cash book from the year 2011 which ultimately leads to misappropriation of public money as erasing and overwriting on an entry made in the cash book is strictly prohibited as per rule 77 of CTR. On further queries, it is learnt that Dr. H. Chaoba was functioning as DDO of the directorate for the period from 20/12/2011 vide Govt order No.9/3/2011-Vety (Dept) dated 20/12/2011.

The complaint also further mentioned that the CAG report has highlighted that the Department drew Rs. 47.32 lakhs in March 2013 and Feb. 2014 for payment of honorarium of 756 officials for conducting the 19th livestock census which is conducted every 5 years. Instead of disbursement of the withdrawn amount to the concerned officials, the amount was transferred to the bank account of the deputy director (Statistics) of the directorate namely O Debola Devi.

Further mentioning about the financial irregularities during the year 2012-13, it said vaccines and appliances worth Rs 136.72 lakhs (Rs 65.87 lakhs for 17 general medicines and 70.88 lakhs for 52 generic medicine and appliances) were procured, but none of the medicine procured were distributed to the veterinary institutions as per records of the stock register and by which openly states the fund misappropriation. During the year 2012-13, vaccines and appliances worth Rs 280.52 lakhs were procured, however, 44 items worth Rs 83.73 lakhs was not distributed.

There was further granting of ACP scheme to 170 employees of the department using non-existing ACP office memorandum with the approval of the Govt, inclusion of 4 un-recommended officers in the promotion of grade III officers, payment of higher scale of grade III to 6 demoted officers, irregularities of funds amounting to Rs 50.14 lakhs for the year 2012-13 for taking up Integrated Poultry Development Programme under the RBPFS scheme, however a sizeable amount of chicks and poultry ration was not supplied amounting to 23.60 lakhs.

So, in the regard, the complainant sought inquiry be taken up in the appeal to the Governor requesting for action to the matters mentioned above.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/governor-approached-to-take-up-befitting-action-against-corrupt-officials-of-the-vety-and-animal-husbandry-dept/

`Pong road closure a standard requirements under MCI`

IMPHAL, November 2: Breaking the silence over closure of pong road the JNIMS director, Dr L Deven, said that the decision to close the road was taken by Medical Council

IMPHAL, November 2: Breaking the silence over closure of pong road the JNIMS director, Dr L Deven, said that the decision to close the road was taken by Medical Council of India (MCI) as per the standard procedure or requirement of the MCI.

The JNIMS Director gave this clarification during a press conference convened at the administrative block of the institute today.

He further explained that as per minimum standard requirements schedule of a medical Institute or medical college under the Medical Council of India (MCI), shall he housed in a unitary campus near its teaching hospital having room for future expansion, as such road passing through the campus was discontinued, added the JNIMS Director.

Dr L Deven also revealed that in connection with the present issue of closure of Pong road, five representatives of JAC formed against the road closure had submitted a memorandum to MCI Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Service through him (Director) on October 29.

The memorandum has mentioned to reopen the Pong road which passes through the campus of JNIMS in public interest.

Similarly, another memorandum was also received from All None Regular Employees Association (ANREA) demanding to bring an amicable settlement with the JAC, continued Dr L Deven.

He illuminated that opening of the Pong road has only drawbacks to the Institute rather than gain.

The closure of Pong road will bring significant improvement to JNIMS as it provide a secure Academic atmosphere of MBBS and PG students, secure moral values and disciplines of patient parties and staffs relation, held the JNIMS Director.

Moreover, it will help maintain the surrounding need and clean, minimize lost of properties of JNIMS, public and Patients parties and minimized disturbance degrading the ethic of the doctor under the influence of outsiders, pharmacists, brokers and medicine sales man breaking the prohibition and restriction against them affecting the relationship of co-operation of lowers staffs with Doctors, further elaborated the Director.

Meanwhile, JNIMS spokesperson, Prof Y Mohen, strongly reacting to the recent incident of restricting patients from entering the JNIMS by the JAC, termed the incident an unfortunate one.

He said that even in war time Hospital and individuals who needs medical attention are give free passes by any army.

Prof Y Mohen further described JNIMS Director as `down to earth person`™ citing his personal initiative taken to arrange a meeting for the JAC to meet the Chief Minister in the initial stage of the JAC`™s agitation.

The JAC should by now realised that the issues lies with the Ministry, he said adding that even the Chief Minister had clearly responded that the JNIMS is not State`™s property.

He suggested that it is high to discuss on alternative route for residents surrounding the JNIMS.

Given the facts, he appealed the JAC to withdraw its protest (closure of JNIMS`™s main gate) causing hardship for who needs immediate medical attention.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/pong-road-closure-a-standard-requirements-under-mci/

BJP says if given victory, Cong scams will be made public

IMPHAL, November 2: Ensure wins for the BJP candidates in the November 21 bye-election, and then watch them unveil the various scams and corruption of the Congress government, BJP Manipur

IMPHAL, November 2: Ensure wins for the BJP candidates in the November 21 bye-election, and then watch them unveil the various scams and corruption of the Congress government, BJP Manipur in charge and MP Prahlad Singh Patel said during the opening of a new party office.

The party office was opened at the bazar area residence of Indrajit, a candidate of the 2012 State General Election for Thangmeiband constituency today.

Patel speaking on the occasion said during the 13 years of Congress government, there has been no development of the NH 37.

He said the Union Minister of Surface Road and Transport, Nitin Gadkari will inspect the NH-37 to ensure that it`™s repairing is completed at the earliest and proper investigation of the Loktak Scam will be conducted soon.

The scandals of the Congress government in the past 13 years will be BJP`™s main issue for the November 21 bye election, he said.

Make sure that the two candidates of the BJP win the bye-election and make them raise the various scandals and corruptions of the Congress in the State Assembly floor so that the party`™s MPs can raise the issues on the floor of the Parliament, Patel continued.

He further appealed to the people of the bazar area to vote for Kh Joykishan.

Electing the BJP candidates will mean putting a check on corruption and bringing development, he said.

Thangmeiband BJP candidate Kh Joykishan said the branch office was opened as part of their election campaign.

This will take a vital role on discussing and solving the various problems faced by the people, he said.

Campaigning will start in the bazar area in the presence of Prahlad Singh Patel, he said.

Indrajit said though he had fought the last election on a MSCP ticket, he decided to support Kh Joykishan this time.

The simple function was also attended by S Premananda general secretary Organisation, former presidents of BJP Manipur M Bhorot, H Borbabu, S Shantikumar, former DGP Manipur Y Joykumar.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/bjp-says-if-given-victory-cong-scams-will-be-made-public/

Man charged with stealing calf succumbs to mob assault

IMPHAL, Nov 2: A man charged of trying to steal a calf succumbed after being assaulted by a mob during the wee hours today at Ucheckon under Irilbung Police Station.

IMPHAL, Nov 2: A man charged of trying to steal a calf succumbed after being assaulted by a mob during the wee hours today at Ucheckon under Irilbung Police Station.

On the other hand, neighbours of the man have countered the charges stating that the man is a school headmaster and couldn`™t have stolen the calf.

The deceased has been identified as Md Hajmat alias Babu, 55, son of (L) Md Kasim Ali of Keirao Makting Awang Leikai.

He was assaulted by a mob who found him around 3 am trying to drag away a calf he had allegedly stolen from the cowshed of one Khumanthem Brojen, 45, Kongba Nandeibam Leikai.

On the other hand, Keirao Makting Awang Leikai residents countered the allegations and said Hajmat is the headmaster of the UJB School where his own wife is also a teacher.

Claiming that he was implicated wrongly by certain individuals and beaten to death, the residents have formed a JAC in this connection.

The JAC has demanded punishment for all those involved in the incident, Rs 5 lakh as ex-gratia and a suitable government job for a family member.

Unless the demands are met with, the body of the deceased will not be accepted, the JAC declared further.

At the same time, angry locals also set on fire the house of one of the deceased`™s neighbour identified as Md Amu who was allegedly involved in the incident.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/man-charged-with-stealing-calf-succumbs-to-mob-assault/

Will soon highlight achievements of govt during three terms: Ibobi

IMPHAL, November 2: The BJP, afraid of facing the Congress in Manipur, has decided to send hordes of its Union Ministers to campaign for the November 21 bye election of

IMPHAL, November 2: The BJP, afraid of facing the Congress in Manipur, has decided to send hordes of its Union Ministers to campaign for the November 21 bye election of Thangmeiband and Thongju Assembly Constituencies, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said.

He said this is a shameful act on the part of the BJP.

Speaking to media persons soon after Bijoy Koijam submitted his nomination today, the Chief Minister said during the UPA rule in the Centre, both the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and AICC president Sonia Gandhi would not frequent the State to be part of election campaigns, however, to the contrary, the BJP is sending a horde of Union Ministers to poll bound Bihar and the Prime Minister himself has conducted election campaigns at several places.

Ibobi said the Congress welcomes all 21 Union Ministers to campaign for the BJP candidates in the State and see who win the bye elections.

The CM observed with the third term of the Congress coming to an end soon, the party has decided to highlight all it has done during the past 13 years beginning from the laying down of the foundation stone of the railway project by the then Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and including the upgradation of the Manipur University to a Central university.

He said an album will be released highlighting all the developments under the Congress.

The Chief Minister continued the MPSC has been made re-functional in the State and more than 50 percent of administrative recruitment for posts like AE, SO-II, more than 300 engineers for PHED, MI, PWD and IFCD were handed over to the MPSC recommended by the State cabinet to ensure transparent recruitment process.

The Congress doesn`™t need to invite star campaigners for the bye-election, he said.

He said the party will soon clear all the issues surrounding the police recruitment which is being re-verified after the election.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/will-soon-highlight-achievements-of-govt-during-three-terms-ibobi/

CM woos bazar communities, says bazar development underway

IMPHAL, November 2: Due to the election code of conduct imposed in the State ahead of the November 21 bye election, the government couldn`™t assure development of Imphal City but

IMPHAL, November 2: Due to the election code of conduct imposed in the State ahead of the November 21 bye election, the government couldn`™t assure development of Imphal City but basic amenities will be provided to the people living in Imphal City, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said today during an interaction programme with the Town Committee of the Bazar area.

The interaction was held as part of an election campaign of Congress party candidate Waikhom Jyotin.

Ibobi said power supply in the State will improve soon, because the government considers it as a top priority under urban development.

The government, he said is aware of the grievances of the people in the bazar area and although all the issues are small, we are unable to check them due to some minor communication gaps.

It is now time for the people of Thangmeiband to elect Jyotin Waikhom as their representative and bring the government closer to the people so that we will be able to look into the grievances of the people, he said.

The Chief Minister said, the Congress considers the five year mandate given by the people to be of immense value and so the government don`™t even disturb the works undertaken by the MLAs in their constituencies.

At the same time, being the ruling party, the Congress has been looking out for the entire State, he said.

We don`™t want the bye-election, he said adding that the people are aware of who is responsible for the bye-election.

He urged the people to choose their leader who can raise their voice for the people.

Since RB Koijam was elected as a representative of the constituency, Thangmeiband and the Congress had drifted apart, he said.

The government is targeting to keep the city need and clean, he said.

PHE minister I Hemochandra who delivered his speech in Hindi said the people of Thangmeiband have chosen wrong leaders in the past.

He said electing the Congress MLA may help in solving many of the problems of the constituency including proper supply of drinking water.

He further appealed to the Chief Minister to solve the problem of frequent occurrence of flood whenever there is a few hour of raining in the absence of proper drainage system.

The minister also wanted the government to come with a proper parking system and look into the issue of traffic congestion and construction of proper retaining wall on the bank of the Nambul River.

The interaction was also attended by deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, minister of Commerce and Industries Govindas Konthoujam, Lamlai MLA Ksh Biren and Sekmai MLA Kh Devendra.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/cm-woos-bazar-communities-says-bazar-development-underway/

Half marathon to create awareness on barrier free and rights based society

IMPHAL, November 2: The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Multiple disabilities (NIEPMD) jointly with the Spastic Society will organise an open half marathon in the State on

IMPHAL, November 2: The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Multiple disabilities (NIEPMD) jointly with the Spastic Society will organise an open half marathon in the State on November 15 under the theme `Run for Inclusion towards a barrier free and rights based society for persons with disabilities`™ said secretary Spastic Society of Manipur Laishram Tokendra Ricky during a press meet held at Manipur Press Club, Imphal today.

Ricky said that differently abled persons have become a sensitive issue and such activity like the marathon will help in spreading positive message on the issue among the masses.

He said that the marathon can be participated by any individual irrespective of gender, he also added that some differently abled persons will also participate in the half marathon and special consolation prize will be awarded for them.

Physically challenged persons continue to face social stigma, he said.

The marathon has been organised so that awareness on the abilities of the differently abled is created among the masses which will help in fighting social stigma, Spastic Society Manipur spokesperson Kirpa Phiroijam said.

He further appealed to all concerned against imposing bandhs and blockades on the day and to instead extend support to the effort.

A locomotor disabled with both lower limbs affected and an Asian Paralympic Arm Wrestler bronze medallists will try to set a Limca Book of Records in hand walking, he said.

It was also announced that the half marathon will start from Khuman lampak Stadium from 7am on November 15 and will cover a distance of 21 kms approximately in and around Imphal and the prizes will be Rs 20,000, Rs 15,000 and Rs 10,000 for the first three spots for both male and female category.

The Spastic Society of Manipur further donated a wheel chair for the Manipur Press Club which will help persons with disabilities if they want to organise any press conference at the club premises.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/half-marathon-to-create-awareness-on-barrier-free-and-rights-based-society/

2 killed in IED blast near MLA’s house in Manipur – Times of India

2 killed in IED blast near MLA’s house in Manipur
Times of India
The incident happened amid increased violence triggered by rebels in insurgency-hit Manipur. Two Assam Rifles Jawans, including a JCO, were killed in separate attacks by insurgents in Chandel and Ukhrul districts and many powerful IEDs were planted …

2 killed in IED blast near MLA's house in Manipur
Times of India
The incident happened amid increased violence triggered by rebels in insurgency-hit Manipur. Two Assam Rifles Jawans, including a JCO, were killed in separate attacks by insurgents in Chandel and Ukhrul districts and many powerful IEDs were planted …

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNGFGbiIAzS653pBj990TSqXvvRSqQ&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&ei=B0A6VsCHPM7N3QG41YyQCQ&url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/2-killed-in-IED-blast-near-MLAs-house-in-Manipur/articleshow/49649842.cms

Expect an amicable solution: RN Ravi says of NSCN (IM) Peace Accord

  IMPHAL, November 3: “We should expect a very amicable solution to the best interest of all,” Centre’s interlocutor in its talks with the NSCN (IM) RN Ravi told media

 

KIM_delegates_and_RN._Ravi_

Centre’s interlocutor RN Ravi with the KIM delegates . Photo : IFP

IMPHAL, November 3: “We should expect a very amicable solution to the best interest of all,” Centre’s interlocutor in its talks with the NSCN (IM) RN Ravi told media persons regarding the outcome of the talks today.

This is the interlocutor’s second visit to the State to consult the Manipur government and civil organizations since the signing of the Framework Agreement between the Centre and the Naga militant group on August 3 in New Delhi in the presence of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.

RN Ravi landed at the Tulihal Airpot around 11:30 am and went directly to The Classic Grande at Chingmeirong where he met delegates from several CSOs later in the day.

Ravi also had a brief chat with the waiting media persons at the airport, wherein he disclosed that the talk is going on.

“Today I have come over here to consult with the civil societies. I had consulted them in the past; which is an ongoing process and I hope something good comes out of it,” he told media persons.

On further enquiry regarding the Centre’s take on the charter of demands put up by the civil societies during his last visit, the interlocutor said, “When we conversed with each other we don’t have a fix position, we understand each other because most of the problem is on account of mutual misunderstanding.”

“So once we start talking to each other we understand each other’s position and that helps us in coming to a common ground.”

He continued that both sides understand each other better, we are coming closer, the process of consultation is on, and hopefully something should come and something should come fast.”

The trip according to the interlocutor is to bring a consensus to the “political issue” of the Naga militants.

Later in the afternoon, the interlocutor met civil organisations like the All Manupur United Club Organisations, United Committee Manipur and Committee of Civil Societies Kangleipak (CCSK).

Speaking to media persons after the meeting with the interlocutor, UCM president Elangbam Johnson said the civil organisations have reiterated their six demands which was earlier submitted to the interlocutor during his first visit in the month of September.

However, he rued that the interlocutor was ambivalent with regards their demands and declined to spell out the details of the so called “frame work agreement” signed between both the parties.

Nevertheless, on a positive note, the UCM president revealed that Ravi suggested the issue be settled across the negotiating table.

Meanwhile, Dr Y Mani Khuman, president AMUCO, said that the CSO delelegates briefed the interlocutor about the series of anti-social activities carried out by NSCN-IM ever since it signed the peace accord.

He also informed that RN Ravi will be making another visit to the State during the last week of November.

CHANDEL: A team of delegates of the Committee on Protection of Tribals Rights (CoPoTR ), Chandel District also met the Centre’s Interlocutor for Naga Peace Talk RN Ravi and apprised him of the grievances of the district at Hotel Classic Grande Imphal today.

Informing media persons of the meeting, CoPoTR Chandel advisor Ts Beton Anal told that the team led by president Wng Kohring Victor met RN Ravi at Hotel Classic Grande and apprised the grievances of the District to him.

The committee member also put up issues regarding the functioning of the Chandel’s Autonomous District Council (ADC) from a rented office in Imphal instead of its office located at Monsang Pantha in the District Headquarters, he added.

Beton Anal further informed that several other problems of the district including habitual irregular attendance of staff were also put up before the interlocutor.

Besides accepting the invitation to visit the district Headquarters, the interlocutor also assured the committee members to address the grievances of the district at the earliest, said the advisor.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/expect-an-amicable-solution-rn-ravi-says-of-nscn-im-peace-accord/

4 militants arrested in Manipur – Business Standard

4 militants arrested in Manipur
Business Standard
Three hardcore members of outlawed militant outfit People Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) including two girls were arrested from Chalwa village of Manipur’s Chandel district on November 2 last, said a press release issued by Assam Rifles.

4 militants arrested in Manipur
Business Standard
Three hardcore members of outlawed militant outfit People Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) including two girls were arrested from Chalwa village of Manipur's Chandel district on November 2 last, said a press release issued by Assam Rifles.

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNEaJf7SWeZrPSIpQTqAxKwanhy19w&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&ei=heQ4Vuj0L8GU3QGyqrrgAg&url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/4-militants-arrested-in-manipur-115110301566_1.html