Manipur Mail – Page 26

Consultation on Tipaimukh dam against misuses of environment

IMPHAL, July 9 MNS : A one day public consultation on Tipaimukh dam and forest clearance jointly organized by citizens’ concern for dams and development, committee on land and natural resources, committee on the protection of natural resources in Manipur and North east dialogue forum was held today at Manipur Press Club, Major Khul.
The Committee on Land and Natural Resources, Citizens Concern for Dams and Development, Committee on the Protection of Natural Resources in Manipur, North East Dialogue Forum an Action Committee Against Tipaimukh Dam co-organized a public consultation on “Tipaimukh Dam and Forest Clearance” at the Manipur Press Club on 9 July 2013 . The consultation is being organized to review the aggressive push by both the Government of Manipur and Government of India to accord “Forest Clearance” for the proposed 1500 MW Tipaimukh Multipurpose Hydroelectric Project.
Dr. Immanuel Varte, Deputy Director of Centre for Research Organization and Education, Dr. RK Ranjan, Chairperson, Citizens Concern for Dams and Development, Mr. Stephen, ex-chairperson of Zeliangrong Students Union Manipur, Joseph Hmar, Secy, Citizens Concern for Dams and Development and U. Nobokishore, Secy, North East Dialogue Forum deliberated the meet as resource persons.
The participants affirmed that the forest, land, rivers and other natural resources of Manipur are crucial for the sustenance of endemic flora and fauna and the survival of several indigenous communities.
It expressed concern that the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) of the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) is meeting on 11-12 July 2013 to consider the proposed 1500 MW Tipaimukh Multipurpose Hydroelectric Project for “Forest Clearance”
The FAC of MoEF is relying for reports of a one day aerial survey of officials of Government of India, and also the request from the Government of Manipur and the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation, all of which recommended for felling 7.8 million trees and 27,000 bamboo in Manipur without proper and comprehensive impact assessment due to proposed Tipaimukh dam construction.
Ministry of Environment and Forest of the Government of India conceded “Environment Clearance” in October 2008 for the proposed Tipaimukh Dam project despite peoples’ objections in all the five public hearings held from the year 2004 till 2008.
An MoU was signed with the Government of Manipur, the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) and Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL) on 28th April 2010, reaffirmed on 22nd October 2011, without obtaining the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of all affected communities in Manipur, Mizoram and Assam.
Remind of the recommendations of the UN Committee on the Elimination of All forms of Racial Discrimination in 2011 on Tipaimukh Dam not to construct the dam without the free prior and informed consent of all affected indigenous peoples.
The participants further resolved thatthe Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) of the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF), Government of India should desist from granting Environment Clearance for the proposed Tipaimukh Multipurpose Hydroelectric Project as this would amount to clear cut violation of the rights of indigenous peoples in Manipur.
The FAC of the MoEF should also take cognizance that all Indigenous Peoples of Manipur have full rights over their lands and resources, as also recognized by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, 2007. The FAC of the MoEF should refrain from making recommendations for Compensatory Afforestation as Manipur is such a small State with huge pressure on land and forest already and the forest to be submerged by Tipaimukh HEP is so huge that it is irrational to compensate similar areas in other parts of Manipur with afforestation.
Manipur cannot afford to sacrifice its forest and to fell 7.8 million trees and 27,000 bamboo groves in Manipur for a mega project which will wrought widespread havoc on environment and sufferings on peoples’ lives and future.
The MoEF should recommend revoking the MoU signed on Tipaimukh Dam by the Government of Manipur with Government of Manipur, National Hydroelectric Project and Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited on 28 April 2010, reaffirmed on 22 October 2011.
The Government of India should ensure that the proposed 1500 MW Tipaimukh HEP is not constructed without the Free, Prior and Informed Consent of indigenous peoples. The MoEF should revoke the Environment Clearance Granted for Tipaimukh Dam in October 2008 based on the
stern objections by the affected communities in all the five public hearings from 2004 till 2008.
The MoEF should recommend that the proposed Tipaimukh dam should adhere to the recommendations of the World Commission on Dams, the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples, 2007 and the recommendations from the UN CERD Committee on Tipaimukh Dam in 2011

‘Hindi speaking’ Chinese troops enter into Indian Territory, vandalise cameras

New Delhi, July 9 (ANI): The Chinese troops intruded into Chumar area in the Leh-Ladakh sector that had sparked off tensions between New Delhi and Beijing in April, and threatened the locals in Hindi over two weeks ago.
The troops also broke the high-resolution cameras set up by the Indian Army had set up in the area a month ago.
The incident took place on June 17 when a Chinese patrol intruded into the Indian side and dismantled the cameras set up in Chumar.
The Chinese troops threatened the locals in Hindi, and asked them to vacate the area. They claimed the area to be their own.
The incident was reported to the government by Indian intelligence agencies and confirmed by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police. According to the DNA the incident was kept under wraps as the government did not want another international controversy while it was also battling the Uttarakhand floods.
This incident took place ahead of Defence Minister A.K. Antony’s visit to China this month.
Antony held delegation level talks with his counterpart Gen. Chang Wanquan in Beijing during his four-day official visit to China last week,.
During the meetings, both sides discussed a number of issues relating to bilateral defence relations, exchanges and interactions between the Ministries of Defence and Armed Forces of both countries and the regional and international security situation.
In the discussions between the two Defence Ministers, measures to promote mutual trust and confidence building between the Armed Forces were discussed. It was agreed that ”strategic communication” is required for building trust and understanding.
It was also agreed that in the meanwhile, both countries will make joint efforts to maintain peace and tranquility on the borders and take measures to strengthen communication and coordination at various levels between the border guarding forces.

AMUCO office bearers elected

IMPHAL, July 9 MNS NNN : New office-bearers of the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) took oath on Tuesday.
They were elected after AMUCO held its general conference for two days at Manipur Dramatic Union (MDU) hall here. Their tenure in office will end after three years.
Dr Y Manikhuman was chosen as the new president of the body, MC Modhuchandra as general secretary. The advisory board consists of the outgoing AMUCO president KT Rahman and Yangsosong Koireng.
Ph Devan, K Helen and W Gonendro were elected as joint vice-presidents. Other newly elected office-bearers were T Gandhi, organization secretary, S Jameskumar, publicity secretary and N Shyamsundar, finance secretary.
Four persons—W Naobi, L Thoithoi, Ph Azamankhan and Mangboi Gangte—were appointed joint assistant organization secretaries.
Ch Manikanta and Kh Khogen were elected joint assistant publicity secretaries while Y Ranbir and Md Yakup as joint finance secretaries.
LC Munindro, L Rojit, Th Chaoba and Ahong Kamei were chosen as officer secretary and executive members respectively.
The oath taking ceremony was administered by advocates Ch Dhananjoy, K Khogendra and K Joychandra.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/amuco-office-bearers-elected/

Accused in murder of MLA’s cousin held

Imphal Jul 9 MNS UNA : Prime accused in the murder of cousin brother of sitting
Congress MLA DK Korungthang has been arrested by a team of Tengnoupal police of Chandel district.
Md Manif alias Ibothem (35), son of late Md Yakip Ali of Sora Maning Leikai of Thoubal district who has been arrested by the police yesterday was produced to the chief judicial magistrate (CJM) Chandel today morning and took remand for seven days in the police custody.
The cousin of the sitting MLA, DK James (60) was found murder at place between T Minou and Khangsim village of Chandel district in the morning of July 3 with multiple cut injury marks.
Family has been claiming that his money bag, mobile phone and identity card were found missing.
Police source said the accused was arrested after tracking the mobile phone of the deceased. The lost SIM card was also recovered from the possession of the accused.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/accused-in-murder-of-mlas-cousin-held/

KSDC’s general strike concludes economic blockade begins

Imphal Jul 9 MNS UNA : At least four vehicles were damaged including one which was torched by Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) supporters in Churachandpur district on the second and last day of the 36-hour general strike which was concluded this evening, at 5 pm.
With the ending of the general strike, the economic blockade on the national highways passing through the Kuki dominated areas of the state has commenced from 5 pm. The KSDC has geared up to enforce the 48-hour economic blockade at all important roads in the state, a statement of the committee dispatched to the media informed. The blockade which would be concluded at till 5 pm of July 11 would be effective on the Imphal-Ukhrul and Imphal Churachandpur section of NH-150, Imphal-Jiribam via Tamenglong section of NH-37, Imphal-Moreh and Imphal-Senapati section of NH-2 as announced earlier by the KSDC.
Meanwhile, on the last day of the 36-hour general strike imposed by the KSDC, at least four vehicles (two Alto brand cars, a Gypsy were dismantle and a two wheeler pulsar brand motorcycle was set afire) by the strike supporters at Tuiboung and Sielmat area along the Imphal-Churachandpur section of the NH-150.
Except this sporadic incident, the general strike has concluded by and large peacefully.
The KSDC claimed that on the second day of the general strike there witnessed unflinching supports at all places in Kuki dominated areas of present day Manipur.
In Imphal-Ukhrul Road more than two hundred women folks come out on the street at Mahadev near Mongnelphai in Ukhrul district and enforced the general strike. Owing to the strict enforcement of the strike, even peddlers were out of sight on this road said the KSDC vice-chairman T.S. Kuki.
In Imphal-Saikul road total bandh has been observed and all the schools, government offices and business establishment in Saikul sub-division remained closed for the second day today.
In Imphal-Jiribam-Tamenglong no vehicular movement and no incident is reported and as such in Leimatak proper all offices and schools are also remained shut.
In Churachandpur district a pulsar motor-cycle was burnt down by bandh supporters. Hundreds of people came out on the streets in support of the general strike and stopped movement of the vehicles including convoys of security forces to avert any untoward incident.
Government offices including the office of Deputy Commissioner, schools and colleges were closed. Women in hundreds hold banner in support of Kuki State and burn tyres on the streets, the KSDC said. In Imphal-Dimapur section of the NH-2, except few vehicles and no vehicular was seen plying except opening of some shops at Motbung and
Kangpokpi and its adjoining areas where United People’s Front (UPF) allegedly forced to open the shops, opposing the agitations being launched by the KSDC.
The same situation was witnessed along the Imphal-Moreh section.
Government offices, schools and business centres were remained close at border town, Moreh during the 36-hour general strike.
The KSDC further announced that the committee has geared up to enforce the 48-hour economic blockade at all important roads in the state from today, at 5 pm, the statement of the KSDC signed by its information and publicity secretary S George Guite said.

It’s called shamelessness

Something has blinded our senses. We are not scared of the consequences that may entail for doing wrong practices. Engineers openly demand cut money and scoff at those, who cannot meet their demand. Teachers neglect their duty and indulge in other activities all for earning extra money. How much one needs? It is really shameful a doctor refused to perform operation on a patient for not bringing medicines from the pharmacy of his choice. Pharmacy and doctor collusion should be shattered. In future if any doctor is found recommending a pharmacy of his choice for buying medicines by patients he or she should lose the licence cancelled. And if they are Government employees their services should be ended. The right of an individual cannot be curtailed. Now a patient had exposed all that transpired between the patient parties and the doctor. For a few hundreds of rupees a doctor could stoop too low. Now all his prestige and image have been dragged down. This is eye opener for all those, who matter. Always remember some of the patient parties are as smart as those engaged by intelligence agencies. They can easily weigh the pros and cons of every single word uttered by a doctor. The system of a doctor recommending pharmacy must be abandoned. In the event of a patient or a party asking out of curiosity where medicines are available a doctor can recommend the pharmacy of his choice. That situation may not arise. Because patients are really scary of talking to doctor. The report has revealed that there is a huge gulf of difference in the prices of the medicines quoted by the pharmacy in question and the others scattered here and there. Hard earned money cannot be wasted without any reason. Instead of recommending the pharmacy the doctor could openly say he wants a few hundreds of rupees. That sounds more reasonable than making prolonged procedures of recommending a pharmacy and sharing the profit. The patient had no alternative other than moving out of the hospital as the Doctors have refused to carry out operation. He was taken to another hospital for the operation. A question will arise how the patient was discharged. There is a system for discharging a patient. Or was the patient expelled. The authority owes an explanation. The matter requires thorough investigation by the authority. Why Doctors engaged by the Government should neglect their duties. Then there is also large number of Government doctors who despite getting hefty pay perk and perquisites remain confined to private clinics for earning extra money. Investigation if any should cover all.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/its-called-shamelessness/

Hemant Soren to meet Governor, stake claim to form Govt. in Jharkhand

Ranchi, July 9 (ANI): Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) legislature party leader Hemant Soren, who claims to have the support of 42 MLAs in the 82-member state assembly, is expected to formally stake claim to form the government today.
According to an official, Soren has been given an appointment with the Jharkhand Governor Syed Ahmed at 5.30 pm.
The latest development in this regard comes nine days before the six-month period of President’s rule ends in Jharkhand. The state was carved out of Bihar on November 15, 2000.
Marxist Coordination Committee MLA Arup Chatterjee, Jharkhand Janadhikar Manch MLA Bandhu Tirkey and three independent MLAs — Bidesh Singh, Chamra Linda and Harinarain Rai have already extended their support to the new JMM/Congress/RJD alliance.
Geeta Koda, another independent MLA and wife of former chief minister Madhu Koda, has also extended her support to the new alliance.
Jharkhand Party MLA Enos Ekka said his party has set a 15-point charter and his support to the alliance depends on a written assurance that the demands would be fulfilled by the future government.
If Ekka lends his support to the alliance then the Hemant Soren-led coalition will have the support of 44 MLAs in the 82-member House.
The President’s rule was imposed in Jharkhand on January 18 after the JMM pulled out from the BJP-led government.

NSFDC – Playing Important Role in Economic Dev of Target Group

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is implementing a number of schemes for development of Scheduled Castes and National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC) is playing an important role in economic development of the target group. The Corporation is active at National level and provides financial assistance ranging from 30,000/- to 30 lacs to entrepreneurs belonging to scheduled castes for setting up their own business ventures. NSFDC also provides 100% grant for skill development training programmes and also provide education loans to students for pursuing higher studies. The Corporation has assisted more than 8.50 lakh beneficiaries by providing loan of more than 2500 crore in last twenty four years.
In the rapidly changing scenario in the World, empowerment of masses does not end with providing financial assistance for starting any business activity, but also involves inclusion of weaker sections in all spheres of development. Good education is one of the foremost requirements for getting employment or starting a self-employment venture. The youth of today needs financial assistance to follow their dreams of getting quality education and livelihood earning skills. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment assists the target-group by giving post-matric scholarships and national overseas scholarship for pursuing higher studies. As the present day education has become an expensive affair particularly if one is to study away from his/her home by staying in hostels, there is a need to fill the gaps in scholarship amount and the actual expenditure. NSFDC is playing a major role in meeting this requirement. Its Educational Loan Scheme has been drafted in such a manner so as to cover all items of expenditures and provide wide coverage of courses. Getting education from foreign universities by the students is also possible through NSFDC’s Educational Loan Scheme.
Further, it is very essential for young persons to be well trained in their chosen area of occupation. Self-employment or wage employment requires exhaustive skill development training. The Government has established number of institutions in the country for imparting these trainings. In this endeavour, NSFDC has entered into partnership with many of such training institutions and are imparting short-term skill training programmes for the educated unemployed youth belonging to scheduled castes. All the expenses of such courses are being met by NSFDC. NSFDC also provides stipend of Rs.1,500/- per month to these trainees for meeting miscellaneous expenses.
In the present business environment – schemes of providing finances for self-employment venture – care should be taken that forward and backward linkages to the business
activity undertaken with financial assistance from NSFDC are available so that beneficiary can increase their business in future by these linkages. The investment in the business should be sufficient to generate enough income, so as to make beneficiaries financially independent. The fund requirement should be met completely, so that beneficiaries need not look for supplementing their requirement from other sources. State Channelizing Agencies should also provide guidance to beneficiaries for running their business successfully and adopt an attitude of holding the hand of the beneficiary for a longer time. Efforts should also be made to bridge the gap between the rural, urban and semi-urban youth belonging to scheduled castes, in all fields.
The need of the hour is for better methods and approaches to ensure the effectiveness of various programmes and schemes for the economic development of masses belonging to scheduled castes.
(PIB Feature).
Inputs from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

AR organises interaction

27 AR of Headquarters 28 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) organised an interactive session with the Youth Club at Thungcheng Village Sugnu on 07 July 2013. The gathering comprised of Officers from 27 AR, Youth Club and other women dignitaries of the area. The Officers enquired about their well being and also about the prevailing state of affairs in the region. A total of 50 Youth Club members were present during the interaction. Officers of 27 AR exhorted the Youth Club to come ahead and take proactive steps for the development of the state and to ensure peace and prosperity in the region. They also stated that the Manipuri society has always acknowledged the sacrifice and contribution of youth in various spheres of life and that 27 AR shall always stand committed for the same.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ar-organises-interaction/

E commerce website launched

www.epotpham.com, an e-commerce website was launched today at Manipur Press Club by The All Manipur Working Journalist Union’s General Secretary GA. Naocha Sharma in a function.
ePotpham, an online shopping portal aims to provide indigenous Manipuri items easily available especially to the people residing outside the state and within Manipur. This site will be a platform for the Entrepreneurs of the state to promote and market their products to other part of the world.
The products can be purchased from the site through Netbanking and other payment gateways. Delivery will be done via various Courier services like DTDC, First Flight, Blue Dart (for special products) and EMS Speed Post.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/e-commerce-website-launched/

Women attack rapist

IMPHAL, July 8 NNN : Police today faced a tough situation when a large number of womenfolk stormed the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Imphal West where a raped accused was presented.
I Bobo aged 39, an accused in a 12-year-old girl rape case, was attacked by the agitating women, who were present inside the court complex, with sandals and ladies shoes.
The police escorting the accused however carried him away and led inside the police van safely. Shoes and sandals were thrown toward the rape accused by the women protesters when he walked out of the court room.
Additional police personnel were called in to control the angry crowd inside the court complex. However, no one was injured in the aggressive standoff.
The court remanded the accused to further 15 days judicial custody.
Bobo allegedly raped his own niece at Tharoijam Maning Leikai under Patsoi Police Station in Imphal West on July 1.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/women-attack-rapist/

Insurgency hampering development : CM

IMPHAL, July 8 MNS/NNN : The CM of Manipur O. Ibobi said, Manipur sericulture project’s phase two will be taken up under the financial assistance of ministry of textiles.
He was speaking as chief guest at the cheques laptops distribution function under HEDA, cluster and CDP at MFDC auditorium hall, palace gate Imphal today.
To improve the economy of Manipur handloom products should be exported to outside and for this quality should be maintained.
He was of the view that with the help of power looms, our products have to be increased. Without peace, there will be no development. To bring peace and prosperity, he sought the help of the people, he said and added that the govt. is ready to hold talks with UGs.
Gobindas Konthoujam commerce and industries minister in his presidential address said the govt. has the policy to distribute solar home lighting system so that weavers can produce hand loom products. He appealed them to maintain work culture.
The principal secy, commerce and industries O. Nabakishore and director sericulture and commerce and industries also attended the function.
“Although Japan tries to invest huge money for various projects in Manipur, the insurgency problem has hampered this development”, said Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh on Monday.
He said as per 2009-10 census there are only 2.18 people producing handloom and handicraft items in the country with Manipur enjoying the third place amongst the largest producers of handloom articles.
The Chief Minister distributed cheques amounting to Rs 3 lakh-5 lakh to 22 handloom entrepreneurs under Handloom Export by Development Approach (HEDA) Projects, 2013.
A total of 17 laptops including printers and generators were also given to 17 handloom clusters under the Computer Added Textiles Design (CATD).
For Sericulture Department, 40 percent balance check amount each deducting from the total amount Rs 70.08 lakh was also distributed to 455 beneficiaries under Catalytics Development Programme (CDP) in respect of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Senapati, Chandel, Tamenglong districts and Kangpokpi.
Ibobi said, “We need power looms to save time. Our state enjoys the third place amongst largest producers of handloom items in the country and we are really proud of it.”
However, he said Japan wants to invest huge money in the state for various projects, but it has been hampered by insurgency problem.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/insurgency-hampering-development-cm/

Kuki bandh affects life

IMPHAL, July 8 MNS/NNN: The two-day bandh called by Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) in all kuki dominated areas of Manipur began today at 5 am affecting all the normal daily activities.
Due to the strike launched by Kuki state demand committee (KSDC) shops at Moreh town were closed down .
The KSDC claims that in Churachandpur seven vehicles including one Shaktiman truck, two Activa Honda bike, one Tata Magic van and three Auto-rickshaws were damaged by bandh supporters on the first day of the bandh today.
According to KSDC, along Imphal-Ukhrul road no vehicular movement was seen and so as along the Imphal-Moreh road. Along Imphal-Moreh road people came out today and blocked the road at several places and in border town Moreh all business establishment down their shutters, educational institutions were closed and halted all normal activities. In Leimatak(Loktak Hydro electricity project) all activities like schools, offices did not function, according to the KDSC. Along Imphal-Dimapur road at Sadar Hills sector no movement could be seen as such in Saikul sub-divisional headquarters, the KSDC said.
“The KSDC will not cow down under any circumstance till the political movement for the Kuki is achieved. KSDC upholds the steps taken by the people for unitedly supporting the bandh and appeals the people to contiue supporting us till the end to expose the lackaidaiscal attitude of the government towards the Kukis,” KSDC leader George Guite said.
The KSDC has been demanding from both the state and the Central Governments to start peace parleys with two umbrella Kuki armed groups—The Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF)—which are signatories to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) involving both the Central and state Governments.
Recalling its movement, the Kuki State Demand Committee(KSDC) said on Monday that it was revived on November 2, 2010 based on the political movement of the Kuki National Assembly(KNA) for creation of Kuki State in the present day Manipur(First memorandum was submitted in 1960 to the then Prime Minister of India Late PT Jawaharlal Nehru).Before the advent of the British colonialists in the soil of the Kukis,the Kukis governed themselves under chiefs in their territories without outside interfence in their affairs.Since the merged of the Kuki territories with Kangleipak (Manipur) without the consent of the Kukis which added their suffering increases day in and day out.
KSDC has been leading the mass movement for separate Kuki State within the Constitution of India as Kukis are denied of their rights for life, security and development and peaceful governance of their affairs in their ancestral land even after India got independence and the attainment of statehood by Manipur.
“Failure on the part of the Government to protect the life and property leading to Kuki genocide in the 1990s , planting of landmine by killing and maining innocent Kuki villagers raping of women in the 2000s,” the KSDC pointed out while citing it as one of the factors to start for the demand of a separate Kuki State.
Another factor has been the denial of Sadar Hills as full-fleged district as it is dominated by the Kukis is tantamount to denial of development of the Kukis.
“The Government failed to address the governance of the tribals under Sixth scheduled which is a constitutional rights; the disparity/negligence of development in Kuki areas; the policy of the Government of alienating and annexation of tribal land through state mechanism; interference of the Government and its machineries in the affaire – de of the Kukis; the Government denied the rights of the tribals in Government employment by alienating the reservation policy; rendering the Hill Area committee non-functional which is a breach of the privileges’ of the tribals; denial of proportionate representation in the state assembly between the tribals and non- tribals.etc etc., are also some other factors that have prompted us to start this movement,” the KSDC stated.
The Kukis in present day Manipur is left with pamper and has no future for political as well as administration, it lamented.
“The KSDC therefore had led the Kuki people for their political survival leading to mass rally since its inception in 2010 followed by general strikes, public blockade, economic blockade etc.as the Government had failed to address the vexed Kuki political issue,” KSDC leader George Guite added.
“In 2012, the patience of the Kuki people was beyond control that led to the boycotting of ASEAN-INDIA car rally. As a face saving measure, the government of India through the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had sent a letter aasuring the Kuki people that the political dialogue with Kuki underground groups would begin after the Winter session of the Parliament. Taking into confidence, the KSDC had decided to suspend the boycott but nothing concrete steps have been taken by the government of India and that had prompted the KSDC to blockade the BCIM car rally.The Government inspite of addressing the issue unleased their might by manhandling the peaceful demonstrators at various places in Imphal-Jiribam Road(NH-2) and imposition of curfew under Crpc 144 in Imphal-Moreh Road. It was ashame for the government as the car rally was welcomed with placards and black-flags at various places which exposed the hollowness of Indian democracy,” the KSDC recalled.
It then said, sensing the indifferent attitude of the Government towards the Kukis, the KSDC decided to resume the suspended public blockade and called general strike from 5 am of July 8 to 5 pm of July 9 in all the Kuki inhabited areas in Manipur and to be follwed by economic blockade for 48 hours.
The KSDC will continue the movement till the political solution for the Kukis inthe form of Kuki State is attained/achieved, the KDSC affirmed.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/kuki-bandh-affects-life/

KCP Lalumba Chairman missing with money

Imphal, July 8 MNS/NNN: The chairman of KCP Lalumba group went missing along with three other cadres and family members of the chairman after withdrawing a sum of Rs. 1,92,68,800 from UBI branch, North AOC on June six.
The party signed soo with India govt.and state govt. on August 2010 and since then the cadres have been staying at battalion of Seventh MR. Disclosing this, the general secy, of the party Ramananda alias Roso while talking to media at a place at Imphal east said, the chairman Kshetrimayum Hitendra alias Kritibash alias Lallumba (41) Thinungei Maning Leikai withrew the amount for 114 cadres from UBI branch North AOC.
A representation was submitted to the principal secy (home) to enquire into the matter, he further said and added that the chairman has been expelled from the party and three cadres accompanying him should return to the camp.
Lallumba KCP faction, president, Kshetrimayum Hitendra alias Kritibas, who hails from Thinungei Maning Leikai in Manipur’s Bishnupur district, withdrew the huge amount from the bank and disappeared, said the outfit’s general secretary on Monday.
Talking to newsmen somewhere in Imphal East district, the outfit’s general secretary, Wahengbam Ramananda alias Rousow disclosed that Hitendra has vanished after secretly taking out the money from the bank and now he is untraceable.
He said a meeting of the outfit’s leadership has decided to expel him from the organization after the incident.
Ramananda also said the outfit signed a tripartite agreement on August 6, 2010 with the state and Central Governments in Imphal and since then its cadres including the leaders have been lodging at 7th Manipur Rifles, Khabeisoi.
The amount was kept in the personnel accounts of the cadres in UBI/AT Line, North AOC and it was given by the Government for rehabilitation of the cadres.
He alleged that president Lallumba took out the money in cahoots with the bank manager and left his quarter along with his family on June 9 and since then his whereabouts is still unknown.
However, Lallumba gave some money out of the withdrawn total amount to some cadres but there are still 70 more cadres including officers of the outfit who have left with nothing, the general secretary added.
The Principal Secretary has been informed about the matter in a letter, Ramananda informed, adding that more letters will be given to other competent authorities in this regard.
He said another three cadres of the outfit have gone with Lallumba and warned the trio to immediately return to Khabeisoi.
Ramananda further appealed to the Government to look into the matter and take punitive action against Lallumba.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/kcp-lalumba-chairman-missing-with-money/

Wreath laying ceremony

Mail News Service
Imphal, July 7 : 18 SIKH of HQ 9 Sector Assam Rifles, under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South), organised a Wreath laying ceremony at Imphal Airport to pay tribute to Martyr Soldier, Late Naik BD Warshung of 8 Assam Regiment, who expired on 06 July 2013 in Command Hospital, Kolkata fighting battle with Tuberculosis. The wreath was laid by CO 18 SIKH on behalf of GOC 3 Corps, IGAR (S), GOC 57 Mtn Div, Commander 9 Sector Assam Rifles, as a mark of honour to the deceased soldier.The mortal remains of Late Naik BD Warshung was accorded full military honour at the Imphal Airport before being dispatched to the native village in Chandel district

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/wreath-laying-ceremony-2/

UNC organises meet to discuss tripartite talks

IMPHAL, July 7 NNN: The United Naga Council (UNC) has urged the government of India to convene the next round of ‘tripartite talks’ involving the UNC, the government of India and the Manipur government on the UNC’s demand on the ‘Alternative Arrangement’ for the Nagas of Manipur.
In this connection, ‘consultative meeting preparatory’ to the next round which is to be the 6th round of tripartite talk of the Government of india, Government of Manipur and the United Naga Council was held on Saturday at Taphou Naga village, Senapati.
According to the UNC, the consultation was participated by intellectuals and scholars, social leaders, tribe Hohos, regional organizations, women and student leaders, social activists, frontal organisations, MLAs, Naga contractor’s association, former UNC presidents and general Naga public.
It then said the interactive programme focused on two aspects, for which there were two separate sessions. In the first session an analysis of “the tripartite talk process so far” was taken up. In the second session, views and suggestions were generated from amongst the participants on the perspective and the effective approach to the 6th round of talk. The pre and post talk strategies for the people’s movement for alternative arrangement outside the Government of Manipur were also deliberated. Ningreichon Tungsang and Chingya Luithui moderated the two sessions of which Pungdi Celestine and Boveio Pou Duo were the respective rapporteurs. The panelists of the consultation were Dr Benjamin Gangmei, Modoli Puni, r Gina Sangkham, Sword Vashum and G. Gaingam, the UNC stated.
At the conclusion of the programme, the participants resolved to urge the Government of India to convene the next round of talk at an early date as agreed upon in the 5th round held on the February 12, 2013.
The meeting also registered serious concern over the delay of the settlement of the Indo-Nagas issue and strongly urged the Government of India to expedite the peace process to its logical conclusion, the Naga body added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/unc-organises-meet-to-discuss-tripartite-talks/

Two women held

Mail News Service
Imphal, July 7 : Based on specific information regarding movement of militants from Yumnam Khunao village towards Pangai for delivering ammunition to unknown persons, troops of 16 Assam Rifles of 10 Sector AR under aegis of HQ IGAR (South) launched an operation and apprehended two female overground workers of PREPAK (PRO) on 06 Jul 2013. The apprehendees were identified as Mayanglangbam Victoria Devi alias Jamdupati aged 40 years, W/o M Loken Singh, resident of Topkongpal Naoriya, Imphal East Dist and Thounaouam Pep Devi aged 36 years, D/o Th Shanghai, resident of Wabagai Keirak, Thoubal Dist. Three Chinese Hand Grenades were recovered from the apprehendees. During the course of further interrogation it was revealed that more arms and ammunition were dumped in village Ishing Thenbi of Sagolmong. Based on the information, a follow up operation was launched which resulted in recovery of a huge cache of arms and ammunitions. Two Carbines with magazine, one 9mm Pistol with two magazines, nine rounds of 9mm Pistol, three Lathode Shell, six Chinese Hand Grenades, six Detonator and one live round DAC43W-II were recovered from the cache. The apprehendees alongwith recoveries were handed over to Sagolmang Police Station.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/two-women-held/

BJP opposes Food security Ordinance

Imphal Jul 7 UNA : In a state like Manipur where public distribution system was in a state of embarrassing failure, the National Food Security Bill (NFSB) would only swell the pocket of the ruling Congress MLAs and ministers.
This was conveyed by BJP national general secretary Tapir Gao addressing to media at the office of the BJP Manipur Pradesh in which he took up various issues related with Manipur.
He said that in BJP rule states like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, etc. it has already been implemented and “it is in vogue successfully while claiming that success is mainly due to the efficiency of the PDS.”
BJP supported the food security bill, but ready for a debate in the upcoming monsoon session of the Parliament for certain amendments, he said, adding “In the context of Manipur where PDS is simply a fiasco, the National Security Food Bill will swell the pockets of Congress MLAs and ministers.”
Asserting that the NFSB might have ensured a full coverage of food entitlement to 67% (82 crore of people) of total population and the total requirement was 62million tons of food grain, Tapir said the government have to bear an extra expenditure of Rs 1.25 lakh crore.
Availing five kg of rice at the rate of Rs 3 or wheat at the rate of Rs 2 per kg per person per month and entitlement of Rs 6000 as maternity benefit, hot cooked food to the age group of six month to 14 years were other highlights of the NFS Ordinance, he said exposing the modus operandi of the UPA government.
“The UPA has managed to pass the act in a hurried manner taking through the route of ordinance and that it has been subsequently promulgated by the President instead of putting up and discussed in the Parliament is apparent that it is a political gimmick to gain electoral profit in the Lok Sabha elections due 2014,” he alleged.
UPA has also failed its promise of passing Food Security Act within 100 days of coming to power after 2004 election. Criticism has also cropped up from the public that a PIL was served by one advocate that Article 123 of the Indian Constitution has been misused as the ordinance has been passed though it was not an “emergency” situation.
Regarding the ongoing demand for implementation of the inner line permit (ILP) system in Manipur, the BJP national general secretary termed the issue as a serious social challenge of the state.
“There arises a demographic imbalance by way of population dilution of indigenous people and hence their social identity, arts and culture were threatened,” he said, asserting that BJP has already been made note of legislating to safeguard the identity of indigenous people in the election manifestos in the last two Assembly elections and also in last Parliamentary election.
The party would always fight and contribute to the cause of indigenous people and its efforts to save the people of Manipur from being marginalized. Legislation is a must and the party has no other option except to adopt ILP as per provision of Article 5 of the Indian Constitution, he said.
While taking up the matter of fake encounter killings, Tapir alleged that most of the fake encounter case took place during the 10 years tenure of chief O Ibobi Singh who held the portfolio of home department. Ibobi himself was the chairman of the Unified Command of the security forces countering insurgency in Manipur.
He further criticized the Congress government, both at thee Centre and in Manipur for demoralizing most of the important democratic institutions with their continue process with full intension. The clear example was Manipur government has made defunct the Manipur State Human Right Commission and State Information Commission which were the most important democratic institute of the state.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bjp-opposes-food-security-ordinance/

KSDC to go ahead with bandh

Imphal Jul 7 UNA : The Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) Sunday said that it would go ahead with the announced 36-hour general strike due to commence tomorrow at 5 am which would be followed by economic blockade on the national highways passing through the Kuki inhabited areas of Manipur.
The 36-hour general strike would be concluded at 5 pm of July 9 and economic blockade which would continue till 5 pm of July 11 would immediately commence after the general strike.
Information and publicity secretary George Guite when contacted said that KSDC would go ahead with the proposed agitations and all its constituents and supporters have been asked to remain alert for carrying out the agitations successfully.
While announcing the agitations, the KSDC alleged that they were compelled to launch the agitations as government of India has failed to adhere to and implement the “written assurances” given to the Kuki people from the Union ministry of home affairs on two occasions, November 22, 2012, December 13, 2012 and January 27, 2013.
The body has reminded the concerned authorities to begin the political dialogue on June 16 last at the latest but no positive response could be received from the Centre till date. The adamant attitudes of the government of India has compelled to resume its suspended blockade, this time with intensified forms of agitations by launching general strike and economic blockade, George said.
The KSDC is demanding initiation of political dialogue on their demand for creation of a separate state of the Kukis by curving out the Kuki inhabited areas of the present state of Manipur.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ksdc-to-go-ahead-with-bandh/

Minor raped by uncle

Imphal Jul 7 MNS/UNA : An 11-year old girl has been allegedly raped by her uncle at Phaknung Mayai Leikai under Lamlai Police Station of Imphal East district on July 5 last. The father of the minor girl has lodged a complaint with the police who registered a FIR case on Sunday.
According to the father of the minor girl studying in Class V at a government school, his cousin brother Kangujam Loken Singh son of Iboyai Singh of same locality had raped her minor child around 1 pm of July 5 in his house taking advantage of the absence of other family members.
The sexual assault on her child came to light when they (parents of the victim girl) received phone calls threatening of dire consequence if they lodged complaint with the police or informed local people. The phone caller identified himself to be the son of the accused person, the father told media persons today after relating the bizarre crime against his ward.
He further said that the accused has been absconding since the day of the incident. A complaint has been filed with the police today and medical examinations would be carried out tomorrow as told by the police, he added.
This was the second case in which minor was raped by her uncle after the recent case of raping a 14-year old girl by her uncle in Imphal West’s Salam Khul on the night of June 29 in which villagers caught the alleged rapist and handed over to the police.
Rape and molestation cases were rapidly increasing in Manipur in the last three years. As per a compiled report of the state police department, a total of 150 rape cases were reported during the last three years, from 2010 till 2012.
Thirty-four rape cases were recorded in 2010, 53 cases in the following year 2011 and it was 63 in 2012. During the same period, at least 118 molestation cases (31 in 2010, 38 in 2011 and 49 in 2012) were recorded in various police stations across the state.
Cases related to ‘cruelty by husband and relatives’ are also increasing rapidly in the state as 18 cases of the kind were recorded in 2010. In the following year 2011, 39 cases were recorded and in 2012, 43 cases were recorded.
Noting the rising crimes against women in Manipur seriously and condemning the recent cases of violence against women in the state, women wing of the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has resolved to table the matter in the upcoming Congress’s Mahila Convention to be held in Mumbai for discussion.
Addressing a press conference held at Imphal Congress Bhavan today, president of Manipur Pradesh Mahila Congress, Ranisana said that the matter would be tabled for discussion during a two-day Congress Mahila Convention, scheduled on July 9 and 10 at Mumbai.
Rahul Gandhi and several other leaders of the Congress party would attend the convention and delegations from the state would urge the leaders of the party to take up all possible measures to reduce and prevent crimes against women and children in Manipur.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/minor-raped-by-uncle/