Manipur Mail – Page 37

Assam blockade against Nagaland lifted

DIMAPUR, June 7 NNN: The All Assam Adavasi Students Association (AAASA), Karbi Anglong District Committee’s sponsored indefinite economic blockade against Nagaland has been lifted today.
The AAASA had imposed indefinite economic blockade since 5 a.m. of Thursday against Nagaland at Bokajan area in protest against the killing of an Adivasi man on June 3 following an exchange of gun fire between the Nagas and the Adivasi community at Mariani area in the Assam-Nagaland border.
Over 300 goods trucks stranded at Bokajan area bound for Nagaland as well as Manipur started moving towards their respective destinations this afternoon few hours after the AAASA announcement to lift the blockade.
No reason was given for lifting the blockade.
The killing of one Adivasi man identified as Sanjay Bhumji in the exchange of gun fire between the Nagas and the Adivasis at Mokokchung area on June 3 has prompted several Adivasi organisations to impose blockade against Nagaland in three different outlets—one at Mokokchung, the other at Mon and since today along National Highway 39 at Bokajan, Assam.
At Mokokchung, the Nagas themselves are imposing blockade against along the roads leading to Assam since June 4.
Since last month, tension has been brewing between Adivasis and Nagas in the Nagaland-Assam border of Mariani.
The Nagas accuse the Adivasis of encroaching their land while the Adivasis counter the Nagas of dismantling their fields.
On June 3, villagers from across the borders had exchanged fire and a bullet hit Sanjay Bhumji’s chest. He was rushed to Jorhat Medical College but succumbed shortly.
This incident happened barely after a week’s of imposing blockade and counter blockade in the border area.
On May 27, under the banner of the All Assam Tea Tribes’ Students Association (AATTSA), the Adivasis had imposed blockade to Nagaland at Mariani area of Assam-Nagaland border accusing the Nagas of assaulting the some Adivasis. On the other hand, the Nagas had alleged that the Adivasis were encroaching into Nagas’ land and had destroyed the standing crops in the fields of the Nagas at Mariani area.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/assam-blockade-against-nagaland-lifted/

Medical entrance exam cancelled

IMPHAL, June 7 NNN : The scheduled MBBS/BDS entrance exam 2013 for the state of Manipur has been cancelled, state Health Services said Friday.
It was announced by Dr A Bijoy, Director, Health Services while speaking to reporters at the office chamber of Education minister M Okendro in the Old Secretariat here.
Dr Bijoy flanked by Manipur minister Okendro, said MBBS entrance exam for the state had been dropped after the state Cabinet in a recent meeting decided to select MBBS/BDS on merit basis per rules from the qualified candidates who have got through in the recent National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) conducted by the CBSE under the Medical Council of India (MCI).
Dr Bijoy also said he was really sorry for the cancellation of the exam.
The conclusion meant to enable all the young MBBS/BDS aspirants of state to compete themselves at the all India level.
He said as much as 4950 candidates from Manipur sat in the NEET 2013 and its results were declared June 5 and if selected, 30 seats in Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) and another 85 seats in Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) which are now vacant will be filed up by the chosen candidates.
A total of 5756 MBBS/BDS aspirants were to appear in the state entrance test for this year and that around Rs 40 lakh was collected from them by selling forms, he informed.
However, he said that a total amount of Rs 23 lakh was spent on preparations for the entrance test and the Health Services was planning to return the money to them.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/medical-entrance-exam-cancelled/

19 held by police: ILP stir

IMPHAL, June 7: At least 19 volunteers of ‘ILP system students’ section’ were detained by Manipur Police in connection with the agitation against entering of non-locals (people from mainland India) into the state on Friday.
They were picked by the police from their own offices here. A Thoithoi, secretary, Democratic Students’ Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) and its deputy organization secretary, and Nishi, president, National Identity Protection Committee (NIPCO) and its advisor, and Jayenta, president, Students’ Union of Kangleipak (SUK) and its general secretary, publicity secretary, and several leaders of All Manipur students’ Union (AMSU) were among them.
Sources said a team of police also conducted searches at the offices of Kangleipak Students’ Association and AKOM LUP, but no one was detained during the hunt.
The police team led by Inspector John (Commando) and Deputy Superintendent of Police Ibomcha, Imphal West District Police raided all the offices of these student organizations including that of NIPCO and picked them up, the sources added.
The agitating student volunteers were detained after they started agitation against entering of non-locals into the state. The agitation is being spearheaded by the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) which has been demanding introduction of inner Line Permit system in Manipur.
On June 5, 40 non-locals coming to Manipur were sent back from Sekmai in Imphal West district by volunteers of several student organisations as part of the agitation by JCILPS preventing non-locals from entering the state.
Following the failure of the state and central Governments to announce a clear stance on the Inner Line Permit issue, the JCILPS had announced to disallow entry of non-locals to the state from June 1-5.
Volunteers of ILP system students’ from student bodies like AMSU, DESAM and KSA including volunteers from Sekmai Protection Committee conducted checking on every vehicles moving toward Imphal from Dimapur side as part of the agitation by JCILPS and forced 40 non-locals to return to their places on June 5.
With the dateline of the ultimatum given to Manipur Government to clear its stance on introduction of Inner Line Permit system in the state was ending, JCILPS had on May 30 decided to go on with its earlier decision to stop visiting of non-locals to the state from June 1-5 and disallow outsiders to enter into the lanes and localities of the state from June 6-10.
Representatives of Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System met the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary and other Cabinet ministers on May 20 during which it had discussed seriously about the ultimatum served to the Government regarding its stance on implementation of ILP system in the state.
Jadumani, convenor, JCILPS had lashed out at the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh for allegedly being double standard and accused the Congress Government of ignoring the resolution of the state assembly with regard to introduction of the ILP system under Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations, 1873.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/19-held-by-police-ilp-stir/

ASHA the New Hope of health Care Delivery in Rural India

Dr. H. R. Keshavamurthy, Director (M&C), Press Information Bureau, Kolkata.
Awareness about health care programmes and facilities is the essence for the success of any health care initiative which is closely linked with human development. The Government launched the National Rural Health Mission in 2005 to provide accessible, affordable and quality health care to rural population. One of the key components of the Mission is to provide every village with a trained female community health activist called ASHA or Accredited Social Health Activist.
ASHA is selected from the village itself and is accountable to it. ASHA acts as a bridge between the ANM and the village. She is accountable to the Panchayat. She is an honorary volunteer, receiving performance-based compensation for promoting universal immunization, referral and escort services for RCH, construction of household toilets and other healthcare delivery programmes. She facilitates preparation and implementation of the Village Health Plan along with Anganwadi worker, ANM, functionaries of other Departments and Self Help Group members.ASHA works as an interface between community and the public health system. ASHA is the first port of any health related demands of deprived sections of the population, especially women and children who find it difficult to access health services in rural areas. ASHA programme is expanding across states and has been successful in bringing people back to public health system, increasing the utilisation of out-patient services, diagnostics facilities, institutional deliveries and in-patient care.
ASHAs are central feature of National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) community based health care delivery. They are widely accepted as the most visible face and one of the most successful components of NRHM. Till date more than 8.85 lakh ASHA workers have been selected, trained and deployed across the country. ASHAs perform the role of facilitation, activism and community level care. Their work includes counselling on improved health practices and prevention of illness and complications and appropriate curative care or referrals for pregnant woman, newborn, ill children as also for malaria, tuberculosis and other conditions. Other than this, ASHAs have also been engaged in the social marketing of products such as sanitary napkins and spacing contraceptives. To enable ASHAs to perform these roles, most states have established the institutional structures required for training and support. What more needs to be done is strengthening these structures to perform effectively.ASHAs are effective in reaching about 70 percent of the population with their services but a substantial 30 percent still remain unattended. A training booklet has been disseminated to state governments to help ASHA in reaching marginalised populations in her area. Incentive package for ASHAs has been increased and payments are being streamlined.
ASHA facilitators are an integral part of the ASHA programme and are to be deployed before the selection of ASHA. An intensive induction training programme of 23 days in 5 episodes is given to the ASHA worker. After a period of six months of her functioning in the village she is sensitised on HIV/AIDS issues including Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Reproductive Tract Infections, prevention and referrals. She is also trained in new-born care. The Central Government bears the cost of training, incentives and medical kits. The remaining is funded through central assistance given to state governments under this programme. Over 7.99 lakh ASHAs have been provided drug kits so far. These kits contain Generic AYUSH and allopathic formulations for common ailments which are replenished from time to time. Most states are also in the process of distributing an equipment kit to ASHAs for providing home-based new-born care.
An evaluation study commissioned by the Planning Commission has revealed that more than 65 percent beneficiaries are visited by ASHA once in 15-30 days. 80 percent beneficiaries have confirmed delivery of free drugs by ASHA. 65 percent beneficiaries have opted for institutional delivery and 60 percent of women availed antenatal care services in government facility proving the significant role of ASHA in motivating pregnant woman for utilisation of antenatal care from public health care facilities. 56 percent of couples reported use of contraception of which 88 percent availed from government health counters.ASHA has also played an important role in educating patients from the households visited by them to go for treatment of chronic diseases in public health institutions instead of private health facilities. Evaluation study has also pointed out the need to improve payment of compensation to ASHAs and also to provide advance money for emergency transport. The new initiatives are:- Establishing an ASHA database in all states; Introducing a system for outcome monitoring; Introducing handbook for ASHA facilitators; and Setting up ASHA grievance redressal mechanism.In a separate evaluation study in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand it has been pointed out that there is a great urgency to speed up establishment of support structures and implementation of the programme. All these states will benefit a great deal while having a skilled ASHA at the community level to promote maternal, new-born and child health and family planning.
(PIB Features.)

Racial tagging and the mysterious death of Reingamphi Awungshi

death of Reingamphi Awungshi88

Dr. Malem Ningthouja
Campaign for Peace & Democracy (Manipur)
Notwithstanding extreme summer heat, many from the Northeast residing in Delhi had taken onto the street, and spent atleast 24 hours at the Malvia Nagar Police Station protesting ‘racial tagging’ after death of a migrant ‘worker’ Miss Reingamphi Awungshi and demanding justice.
Reingamphi Awungshi (26) (15-07- 1987 to 29-05-2013), daughter of AS Chihanpam of Chuithui village, Ukhrul district (Manipur), who had worked in a spa company was found death under mysterious condition on 29th May 2013 at her rented room, 424, ground B-Block, Chirag Delhi. Reingamphi was found lying dead on a pool of blood with multiple injuries; while her nose was bitten off and her leg bore big cut mark, her eyelids scratched, and eyes bleeding. The police had taken over the body, her mobile phone, photo albums, cloths and mattress and etc into their custody.
Many were infuriated by the suicide theory of the police. What about the wounds? Police concluded they were posthumous and caused by rodents. They had not even lodged an FIR 24 hours after. The suicide theory restricted the scope of post mortem in the AIIMS. It had also caused tampering of evidences to be found on the body. The suicide version was widely circulated by the media. The police had also tampered evidences in the room. The police apathy was coupled with racial prejudice as pointed out by Binalakshmi Nepram “We have been told by the SHO, Vijay Pal, that these girls from northeast work in SPA and that’s why these incidents take place.”
Relatives and friends of Reingamphi suspected rape and murder but the police were covering up crime. They suspected the brother-in-law of the landlord who had made frequent approach to waive off rent and intimation with Reingamphi to gain her acquaintance despite her disapproval. The landlord had first noticed Reingamphi lying suspiciously when he had peeped through the ventilator above the door. He had alarmed the police who subsequently broke open the front door. Though the room was locked from the front door, the backdoor of the room was found to be opened. Anyone could have gained entry from the backdoor of the room of the Reingamphi that was connected to the adjacent room of the landlord. The room was also vertically connected to the rooms on the first floor. These rooms are accessible to one another by scaling the iron grilled wall.
It was this cumulative police apathy that brought hundreds of northeast students and others for a protest on the day after the incident – first at the AIIMS, where the post mortem was conducted and the victim’s relatives refused to receive the body, and later the Malviya Nagar police station where they asked police to lodge an FIR under section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). They spent the night there and on 31st May afternoon. But the police lodged an FIR under Section IPC 306 (abetment of suicide). The FIR was in complete disregard of the preliminary post-mortem report, which did not mention the cause of her death. Protest continued till the evening of 1st June when ACP SS Gill conveyed that an FIR No 253/13 PS Malvia Nagar was lodged with added section of IPC 302. Re-post mortem and handling of the case to CBI, if required was ensured. On 3rd and 4th many had waited for post mortem report only to be informed again that the causes of death had not been fully established. In the meanwhile threat warnings by the locals such as “if any of the local boys were investigated/picked up by the police then those from the North East living in that area would face consequences” were intimated to those who took part in the candle light vigil on 1st protestors. Finally the mortal remain of Reingamphi was flown to Imphal on 6th June.
The incident and the protest once again reignited memories of humiliation over the mysterious deaths of Richard Loitam, Dana Sangma and the racial assaults that led to the mass exodus from Bangalore in 2012. It also increased the apprehension about racial vulnerability of the vast chunk of the Northeast migrant students and ‘workers’, particularly women, who are clubbed in various rented pockets in the NCT. It is also apparent from this case that the May 10, 2012 home ministry advisory on racial discrimination and profiling of the northeast peoples in the metros seems to have been ignored by the law enforcing agencies at the ground level. The MPs from Manipur and the Government of Manipur seems to feign ignorant about the issue and they chose to remain silent.

SEZs: creating Infrastructure, Changing Landscape

Amit Guin
Around fifty-five kilometers from the capital of the Eastern state of West Bengal, Kolkata, and with river Hooghly flowing on its west, is located a Special Economic Zone in Falta.
With the setting up of the SEZ in the district of South 24 Parganas, the place became well connected by a developed network of roads, two ports and an international airport. Along with 24-hours water supply, uninterrupted power supply, FSEZ offers a truly supportive environment by providing simplified procedures for investors.
This facelift to Falta happened after the Government conceived the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) Policy in 2000. Hindsight suggests that the Government started working towards the sole goal of rectifying the shortcomings of the EPZ model as it was not able to give a fillip to export promotion because of various roadblocks, namely, multiplicity of controls and clearances, absence of world-class infrastructure, and an unstable fiscal regime. It was then, when the ideation of SEZ came into being. The new Policy aimed at making SEZs the engines for economic growth complemented by quality infrastructure, attractive fiscal package – both at the Centre and State level. After working on various loose ends, a comprehensive Special Economic Zones Act, 2005, was passed by the Indian Parliament in 2005, which provided for simplification of procedures and for single window clearance on matters relating to central and state governments. The new Act envisaged generation of additional economic activity, promotion of exports of goods and services, promotion of investment from domestic and foreign sources, creation of employment opportunities and development of infrastructure facilities.
Coming back to the Falta Special Economic Zone, it needs to be stated that this SEZ, which was approved by the Government in 1984, has since then, left a remarkable mark in the local area of its set-up in terms of direct as well as indirect employment, emergence of new activities, change in the consumption pattern and social life, and positive changes in human development facilities such as education, healthcare among others.
The Falta SEZ is home to four unique units, namely, Vikram Solar Private Limited, J V Gokal & Company Private Limited, Carbide Cutting Tools Private Limited and Cheviot Company Limited. These units are unique, because apart from helping in employment generation and engaging the local population, they are engaged in producing eco-friendly and biodegradable products, along with undertaking a number of green initiatives.
Established in the year 2006, Vikram Solar is into the manufacturing and sale of solar photovoltaic modules and systems that can produce clean and green energy, hence leading to sustainable environmental development. It also engages itself in a continuous process of improving environmental performance and developing systems by providing appropriate training to the employees. In the year 2010, the Vikram Group of Industries launched a Rs. 100 crore 25 MW solar photovoltaic module manufacturing plant at FSEZ. Vikram Solar is unique for its green products and is the only company in India to use Electroluminescence Test for cells before using in the Modules.
A company known for its high woman employability, J V Gokal & Co. Pvt. Ltd. is a sixty-year-old tea exporting company in India. It expanded its operation in Falta in 2006. Touted to be among the top five tea exporter company from India, it involves 80 per cent women in value added tea packaging jobs.A manufacturer and exporter of industrial cutting tools, Carbide Cutting Tools Pvt. Ltd. is established in the FSEZ with 125 employees working for the production of drills, endmills and various other special tools. The company’s annual turnover for the April-March 2012 period was Rs. 18.06 crore, all of which is from CCT’s works at FSEZ. CCT has one of the best designs and quality benefiting from world class research and development from OSG Japan. The end users of its products include the likes of Boeing, Honda, General Motors, L&T, Ashok Leyland and Tata among others.
Cheviot Company Limited is one of the leading manufacturers and exporters of fine jute yarn. In 2003, the company set up a 100 per cent Export Oriented Unit in FSEZ. The company uses traditional jute yarn to manufacture superior quality industrial fabrics. Cheviot has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, with all its products being eco-friendly and biodegradable.
The M L Dalmiya & Company Ltd. developed IT/ITES SEZ is located in Bantola. The Green Tech Park is an IT park which is located in a remote location at the Bantola SEZ. It houses IT major Cognizant’s office, which officially inaugurated its operations in the Green Tech Park in January 2011. The SEZ facility here is spread over an area of 20 acres. Cognizant, here, is committed to providing its associates with a best-in-class, healthy and safe work environment. It has also engaged in a number of green initiatives, which includes encouraging its employees to dispose their e-waste responsibly.
The Manikanchan SEZ, located close to the Kolkata Airport is one of the first SEZ providing world class infrastructure to the exporters of gems and jewellery. Spread over an area of five acres, it is also home to Shree Ganesh Jewellery House (I) Ltd. The company has large state-of-art manufacturing facilities in Manikanchan SEZ. It employs around 600 employees at their plants located in the SEZ. The Jewellery House has won the Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council’s Outstanding Performance of Exports from EOU/SEZ-Plain Gold Jewellery for five consecutive years from 2007 to 2012.
Government has been successful in achieving of what it had thought of in the Special Economic Zones Act.
The overwhelming response to the SEZ scheme is evident
from the flow of investment and creation of additional employment. The SEZ scheme has generated tremendous response amongst investors, both in India and abroad. In addition to earning of foreign exchange and development of infrastructure, SEZs have also created a significant local area impact in terms of direct as well as indirect employment, emergence of new activities, changes in consumption pattern and social life, human development facilities such as education, healthcare etc., as in the case of Falta SEZ, and many alike.
(PIB Features.)

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/sezs-creating-infrastructure-changing-landscape/

Maj Gen UK Gurung IG AR (S) and Maj Gen R Chopra IG AR (South) (Designated) calling on Chief Minister O Ibobi on Friday

Mt Everest sumiteers given rousing welcome

MPHAL, June 6 MNS NNN: The successful Manipur team of the ‘1st North East Top of the Mount Everest Expedition 2013’ was warmly received and greeted by the people of Manipur on Thursday.
Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association (MMTA) and the observation committee of the 12th Great June Uprising and Unity Day jointly organised a reception ceremony honouring them at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium here.
Dr L Surjit Singh, leader of the team, Puyamcha Mohon, successful Mt Everest climber, N Bidyapati Devi, successful first lady Mt Everest climber of Manipur, N Chingkheinganba Meitei, the youngest successful Mt Everest climber of the Northeast India, N Robert, climber, James Waribam, climber, Dr L Nelson, medical doctor of the expedition team, Ch Shankar and Ph Bidyachand Singh, successful Everest climbers from NCC were honoured during the function.
KT Rahaman, president, All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO), Y Nabachandra, president, United Committee Manipur (UCM) and RK Ranendrajit, former president of MMTA shared the dais at the occasion.
Making a speech at the function, KT Rahaman said that it was the ‘proudest moment’ of the people of the state and hailed the feats of the Manipuri Everest conquerors admitting that despite its tininess the state now has terrific personalities who have scaled the Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
RK Ranendrajit also spoke at the event. He said the amazing youths of the state have fulfilled the three decades old dream of the MMTA by reaching the summit of Everest.
After weeks of climbing, a 16-year-old school kid N Chingkheinganba from Manipur along with his team reached the top of Mount Everest on May 8, becoming the first youngest boy in the entire North East to conquer the world’s highest mountain.
On May 7, N Bidyapati Devi set a record as the first Manipuri lady to scale the Everest summit.
Chingkheinganba, who is a resident of Patsoi in Imphal West district, is a climber from MMTA. Ansu Jamsenpa from Arunachal Pradesh, David Zohmangaiha of Mizoram, Tarun Sakia of Assam, Karzi Sherpa of Sikkim and Wanshuk Myrthong of Meghalaya along with Chingkheinganba had reached the Everest, with a peak at 8,848 metres (29,029 ft) above sea level.
The 1stNorth East Top of the Mount Everest Expedition 2013 was officially sent off from the historic Kangla Fort, Imphal on February 25.
Bidyapati, Nima Lima of Arunachal Pradesh and Anand Gurung had successfully reached the top of the mountain on May 7 and Gurung was the first climber from the team to conquer Everest. The expedition was organised by MMTA uunder the aegis of Planning Department, Manipur and funded by North Eastern Council (NEC), Shillong.
The expedition team included 16 climbers—seven from Manipur, two each from Mizoram, Arunachal Pardesh, Assam and Sikkim, and one from Meghalaya.
Mount Everest having an altitude of 8, 848 metre from the mean sea level and is located at the Mahalangur section of the Himalayas.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mt-everest-sumiteers-given-rousing-welcome/

AR Go green fortnight

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 6 : In Sync with the initiative by the HQ IGAR (S), 27 Sector observed a ‘Go Green Fortnight’ with effect from 01 to 06 Jun 2013. The event was organized with an aim of saving and regenerating flora of the state and also spread awareness among the Public. A series of event was organized during the fortnight which includes plantation of Saplings, awareness campaign on environmental issues. Over 1,000 saplings which includes ornamental, fruit bearing and other forest trees were planted at various location in Churachandpur Districts. Large number of students from various Schools and Colleges took part in the initiative who participated voluntarily with zeal and enthusiasm. Villagers especially the farmers have been educated on the importance of maintaining the ecological balance of the state. To culminate the event, Brig Advitya Madan, Cdr 27 Sector on 06 Jun 2013 planted a sapling in a Special function organised at Churachandpur, speaking on the occasion, Cdr 27 Sector exhort the gathering to contribute in whatever way to curb the depleting ecological balance. The programme received an overwhelming response and lots of appreciation from the locals.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ar-go-green-fortnight/

Student body flays CM on ILP issue

IMPHAL, Jun 6 UNA: Reacting to a statement of Manipur chief minister O Ibobi Singh on the issue of implementation of inner line permit system in Manipur, a student body flayed him of being giving a “irresponsible” statement on Thursday.
State chief minister O. Ibobi Singh had on Wednesday said that the government would not remain silent if the volunteers of Joint Action Committee on Inner Line Permit System take law in their hands while pressing the state government for the implementation of ILP system in the state.
The chief minister said this while reacting to the type of campaign being launched in the state which includes preventing entry of Indian citizens (non-locals) into the state. The chief minister, however, said that his government was not against the introduction of the ILP but as the matter is with the union government it has to be jointly press the union government through proper channel.
Addressing a press conference held its office at Imphal, the Student Union of Kangleipak (SUK) termed the statement of chief minister regarding peoples’ agitation for introduction of the Inner Line Permit System in the state as ‘irresponsible” statement.
Pressing the government for introduction of the inner line permit system in Manipur to check unchecked increase in the number of non-locals in the state, the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) has been conducting drives against non-Manipuris.
With the dateline of the ultimatum given to Manipur Government to clear its stance on introduction of Inner Line Permit system in the state was ending, JCILPS had on May 30 decided to go on with its earlier decision to stop visiting of non-locals to the state from June 1-5 and disallow outsiders to enter into the lanes and localities of the state from June 6-10.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/student-body-flays-cm-on-ilp-issue/

Body of deceased Manipuri girl brought back

Imphal Jun 6 UNA: The lifeless body of Manipur girl who was found death in her rented room in New Delhi recently which sparked controversy after the family members and students’ community of Manipur and Northeastern states alleged that she was murdered and brought back to Imphal.
Ringamphy has been alleged of raped and murdered mercilessly. She was found dead inside a rented room at South Delhi in a mysterious condition.
The mortal remains of the Reingamphy, a native of Choithar village of Manipur’s Ukhrul district was brought back to Imphal by an Indigo flight.
Delhi police had earlier refused to file a case in regard to the dead of the Manipuri girl but later as the matter of the death was brought to the notice of the Delhi administrators the Delhi police later filed a murder case and started investigation into the case.
The dead body was conducted post mortem for two times. However, no action has been initiated against the police officer who refuses to file a case.
The dead body arrived at Imphal airport today afternoon where representatives of various civil organizations and family members received the soulless body.
Later, the body was taken to Tangkhul Baptish Church to pay tributes from near and dear one. Her lifeless body would be taken to her native village at Ukhrul tomorrow.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/body-of-deceased-manipuri-girl-brought-back/

ATSUM gives intimation to railway to stop work

Imphal Jun 6 MNS/ UNA: As a part of their 38 day sustained agitation the Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM) gave intimation to the railway authority to stop the undergoing works taken up between Imphal-Tupul railway from the midnight of June 7.
Speakers of ATSUM said that if the initimation of the student body is not gaven heed then the consecoinces face by the workers be the responsibles of the concern authority.
The intimation letter was given to the higher authority of the railway today added ATSUM speakers.
ATSUM also strongly condemned police for torturing the members of All Tribal Disables’ Union Manipur (ATDUM) including their president Momo Tantnaga in police custody.
At the same time ATDUM also stage a sit in demonstration against the police for torturing their members in front of its office at Nagaram, Imphal.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/atsum-gives-intimation-to-railway-to-stop-work/

Assam, Nagaland border dispute taking its toll

DIMAPUR, June 6 NNN: Confrontation between the Adivasi community and that of the Nagas in the Assam-Nagaland border is getting more and more serious on every passing day.
The All Assam Adivasi Students Association (AAASA) has imposed indefinite economic blockade against Nagaland at Bokajan area in Karbi Anglong district of Assam bordering Nagaland since 5 am today.
The killing of one Adivasi man identified as Sanjay Bhumji in the exchange of gun fire between the Nagas and the Adivasis at Mokokchung area on June 3 has prompted several Adivasi organisations to impose blockade against Nagaland in three different outlets—one at Mokokchung, the other at Mon and since today along National Highway 39 at Bokajan, Assam.
At Mokokchung, the Nagas themselves are imposing blockade against along the roads leading to Assam since June 4.
Meanwhile, reports said several goods trucks are stranded at Bokajan including Manipur bound trucks due to the Adivasi students’ body.
However, it is yet to confirm how many Manipur trucks got stranded at Bokajan.
Since last month, tension has been brewing between Adivasis and Nagas in the Nagaland-Assam border of Mariani.
The Nagas accuse the Adivasis of encroaching their land while the Adivasis counter the Nagas of dismantling their fields.
On June 3, villagers from across the borders had exchanged fire and a bullet hit Sanjay Bhumji’s chest. He was rushed to Jorhat Medical College but succumbed shortly.
This incident happened barely after a week’s of imposing blockade and counter blockade in the border area.
On May 27, under the banner of the All Assam Tea Tribes’ Students Association (AATTSA), the Adivasis had imposed blockade to Nagaland at Mariani area of Assam-Nagaland border accusing the Nagas of assaulting the some Adivasis. On the other hand, the Nagas had alleged that the Adivasis were encroaching into Nagas’ land and had destroyed the standing crops in the fields of the Nagas at Mariani area.
“Unable to restrain further, the villagers waylaid the encroachers on May 23 and caught two encroachers red-handed in the act of destroying plantation and cultivated land within the village ancestral land near the Assam border. The encroachers culprits were handed over to the Police Station of Longchem Hq for necessary action,” the Naga villages of Nokpu Village Council and Saring Nokpu B Village Council had stated.
Vehicles from Nagaland and travelers at Mariani were blocked since last week demanding that the government of Assam arrest those Naga villagers involved in the abduction and assault incident on two Adivasis failing,which indefinite road blockade would be imposed on Nagaland.
Countering to the act of the Adivasi community, the apex body of the Ao Nagas under the banner of Ao Senden had imposed counter-blockade from 6 am of May 28.
The Nokpu Village Council and Saring Nokpu ‘B’ village Council of Nagaland alleged that activities of the ‘encroachers’ from Assam side, comprising of armed Adivasis and illegal immigrants under the instigation of some individual with selfish vested interest from the area are still continuing.
The village councils had then said there are historical facts and evidence that tells us about having very good Ahoms ? Naga relationship which exist till today; and even closer relationship between the communities living border areas, both village council re-iterates that people of Nokpu village still maintained the age old close relationship with the people of Ahoms. And there is no misunderstanding with the people of Assamese people except that we are against illegal immigrants who are encroaching our ancestral land, it added.
“Therefore, the action of the villagers in apprehending the encroachers/culprit and approaching authorities for taking action as per law should not be construed as kidnapping case, and further, both the council appeal to the local residence of Naganijan/Nakachari/Mariani section; not to resort to false allegation which would result disturbing peace in the area, And also pointed out that if any encroachers are caught in future the village will deal with them as per customary law of the land,” the Village Councils had stated.
There are around 80 lakhs population of Adivasis in Assam alone and a couple of Adivasi based militant outfits are existing demanding a Adivasi statehood by carving out a portion of Assam state.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/assam-nagaland-border-dispute-taking-its-toll/

Governor releases book on Tiankham

Governor Gurbhachan Jagat releasing a book at Churachandpur.

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 6 : Gurbhachan Jagat , Governor today released a book which is a memoir of (Late) T.C. Tiankham at Churachandpur. He said “His was the generation where they had seen British and Maharaja Rule, was a player in the brief period when Manipur was independent and after the merger of Manipur with the Union of India. Born in the then Lushai Hills, now Mizoram, his family . migrated to Churachandpur and he got his education at Churachandpur, Imphal, Silchar and Sylhet. Getting education during those days was not an easy proposition and his travails show his determination. He was a member of the Manipur State Constitution – Making Body and then he became a member of the Interim Council and after the first election under the Manipur Constitution Act, 1947, became the first Speaker. After the merger of Manipur with the Union of India, he joined the State Service and rose to the level of Secretary. Even after retirement he was active in various social activities.
Memoirs are usually penned after a long lapse of time and any such efforts indicate the care the individual has taken in maintaining records, showing his carefulness and meticulousness in maintaining records
This is a labour of love and needs to be treasured not only by his family and all those who knew or heard about him but by the general population as it vividly recalls his personal journey and effort with anecdotes about the situation then. What we now see and consider common place were prized possessions then, such as cars, roads, etc. I had not had the opportunity of meeting (Late) Tiankham but everyone who knew him tells me about his sincerity, hard work and truthfulness.
Another way of judging a man after he passes away is the legacy that he leaves behind in the form of his children. He said he met and interacted with Vunga personally during the course of his tenure .

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/governor-releases-book-on-tiankham/

Entry of outsiders restricted

Volunteers of joint committee on inner line permit student wing stopped seven tourist buses and others and checked if there were non-Manipuris who did not possess valid documents at Koujengleima New Bazar this morning around 11 a.m. and 40 non-Manipuris were arrested. They left Sekmai and returned towards their destination. The students wing checked vehicles […]

Volunteers of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) carrying out drive against non-locals at Sekmai area.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/entry-of-outsiders-restricted/

Protest against killing of Reingamphi

Reingamphi

New Delhi, June 5 MNS: On 29th of May 2013, Ms A.S. Reingamphi alias A.S. Solam from Ukhrul district of Manipur was found dead under suspicious circumstances in her rented accommodation, House no. 424/B , Ground Floor, Chirag Delhi, New Delhi -110017 under Malviya Nagar Police Station in India’s capital Delhi. There were signs of brutal mutilation on her nose ,face and her legs .Her eyelids were scratched, eyes were bleeding and there was a pool of blood where she was found lying.
The deceased’s relatives submitted a complaint letter to the SHO, Malviya Nagar Police Station on 29th May 2013. They charged the landlord and his brother-in-law of sexually assaulting and murdering Ms Reingamphi. They informed the police that the brother-in-law of the landlord was stalking and harassing Ms Reingamphi and specifically over this weekend , 25-26th May, the landlord called her repeatedly. The SHO of the Police Station Malviya Nagar refused to file an FIR.
After 3 days of sustained pressure on 31 May, the Malviya Nagar Police finally lodged an FIR under Section 306, which is abetment to suicide. This is in complete disregard of the preliminary post-mortem report, which does not mention the cause of her death and against the wishes of the family.
On 1 June 2013 the Minister for Women and Child Development Dr Kiran Walia, arrived at the Malviya Nagar Police Station, where protests went on and intervened, saying that the case will be transferred to the Crime Branch and asked for a fresh post-mortem investigation.
A humble candle light vigil was organized near the house of the deceased in Chirag Dilli on 1st June, 2013.At the site of the vigil , the locals threatened the participants that if any of the local boys were investigated/picked up by the police then those from the North East living in that area would face consequences.
We, the civil society and women’s groups from all over Northeast region , Delhi and India condemn the killing of Ms A.S. Reingamphi alias A.S. Solam and call upon Govt of Delhi, Govt of India to ensure justice is done. We have been protesting over last several days to ensure justice is done and will continue our struggle to ensure peace to family of late Ms A.S. Reingamphi.
The present FIR done unilaterally by Malviya Nagar Police Station Delhi without taking into consideration the complainants’ letter be retracted and a fresh FIR be filed alleging sections 302(Murder) and 304(Culpable Homicide not amounting to murder) of the Indian Penal Code. Malviya Nagar Police Station had filed FIR under IPC Section 306 (abetment to suicide ) which has been rejected by family members.
Serious attention must be paid to the discrepancies between the first and the second Post Mortem reports. The suspects– the landlord and his brother-in-law– should be arrested and thoroughly questioned.
All the institutions involved speed up the process of investigation and justice be delivered. In this regard, the viscera report should come out as soon as possible. Action to be taken against the Police officials of the Malviya Nagar Police Station for refusing to file an FIR which is the right of all the citizens.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/protest-against-killing-of-reingamphi/

BSNL stir

Mail News Service Imphal, June 5 : The forum of BSNL unions/associations Manipur today staged a sit in protest demanding the implementation of 78.2 percent IDA fixation for the BSNL employees at the BSNL office complex Babupara. The association demanded to honour the agreement between the BSNL management and the Forum which was signed on […]

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 5 : The forum of BSNL unions/associations Manipur today staged a sit in protest demanding the implementation of 78.2 percent IDA fixation for the BSNL employees at the BSNL office complex Babupara. The association demanded to honour the agreement between the BSNL management and the Forum which was signed on 12.6.2012. The association will launch indefinite cease work strike from 12 June 2013 if their demand is not met.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bsnl-stir/

NSF members meet Gaikhangam

IMPHAL, June 5 NNN : The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) met Manipur Home minister Gaikhangam on June 4 and apprised him certain issues relating to the Nagas of Manipur. After meeting the Manipur Home minister, NSF president Tongpang Ozukum and its general secretary Easter Rhakho in a statement said the NSF said, “In connection with the proposal for construction of a five star hotel at Kabo Leikai in Imphal the government of Manipur carried out inhuman actions against the Nagas in the colony by demolishing their houses within 48 hours of the government order to vacate from their colony,” and strongly condemned the act of the Manipur government.
“This incident clearly demonstrates the sinister intention and continued attempt on the part of the communal government of Manipur to torture and discriminate the Nagas in Manipur,” said the NSF.
“The Federation, as a sign of showing its solidarity, has also visited the Silent village which was attacked by a large number of highly armed people from the neighbouring Saijang village on May 3. In this regard, NSF entourage team has pressed upon the government of Manipur to deploy adequate security for the safety of the villagers as well as to maintain status quo while respecting boundary demarcation between the villages,” the NSF added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nsf-members-meet-gaikhangam/

World environment day observed

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 5 : The world environment day 2013 organised by Bee Net Manipur and CGHS was observed today at Manipur Press Club Major Khul. The theme for the year is think eat save reduce your food print.
Resource persons Dr. Th. Sobta Devi president women environment protection force, Th Bhogen Singh Junior scientist officer directorate of environment govt. of Manipur and Prof. N. Rajmohon Singh vice-president Bee Net Manipur spoke at the occasion.
Today is World Environment Day. 5th June was declared as the “World Environment Day” on the recommendations made by UN Conference on Human Environment in 1972. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) through the celebration of World Environment Day spreads awareness and gets citizens’ support for environment protection across the globe.
The theme for this year’s World Environment Day (WED) is Think. Eat. Save- Reduce our Foodprint. The campaign calls for minimizing waste of food at all stages of the food chain, from farm to fork. This is to raise awareness about the environmental consequences of our food choices and find ways to reduce our environmental “foodprint”, as food production has profound impact on environmental resources. Agriculture is responsible for 70% of fresh water consumption, 80% of deforestation, and 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. It is the cause of land-use change, biodiversity loss, and responsible for large-scale soil, water and air pollution. The campaign is also to remind each one of us that despite producing enough food for everyone, 90 crore people still go hungry world over. On this day we take a pledge to make a difference, individually as well as collectively, to reduce food loss or wastage and move towards a world where everyone has enough to eat and no one is malnourished or undernourished.
This mission cannot be achieved when we lose almost one-third (about 1.3 billion tonnes) of all the food produced globally. It is ironical that developed nations waste food more than the less developed countries. In India we lose approximately 40 per cent of perishable and non-perishable food at different stages from production, transportation, storage, retail to consumption. Millions of tonnes of food grain, in the absence of adequate storage infrastructure, rots every year. This is wastage of our dwindling natural resources and detrimental to the environment.
The WED is an opportunity to raise large-scale awareness among the producers, transporters, manufacturers & retailers, regulators, hospitality industry and affluent consumers on the negative aspects of wastage of food and how thoughtful actions can help minimize food loss.
Smt. Jayanthi Natarajan, Minister for Environment & Forests presided over the function to celebrate World Environment Day organized by the Ministry of Environment & Forests here today. While addressing the gathering, she said that there cannot be sustainable development without environment given due importance. Emphasizing the importance of sustainable development in everyday life, Smt. Natarajan said that natural resources cannot be replaced. She said that the debate of progress versus environment or development versus environment is completely irrelevant and unnecessary. Highlighting the importance of this year’s theme “Think. Eat. Save- Reduce our Foodprint” she said, that there is an urgent need to become more aware of environmental impact on the food choices we make. If food is wasted, it means all resources and inputs used in the production of all those foods are also lost, she added.
On the occasion, Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member Planning Commission delivered the key note address on the theme. Dr. V. Rajagopalan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment & Forests and Ms. Lise Grande, UN Resident Co-ordinator and UNDP Resident Representative also addressed the function.
As the part of the celebrations, Five publications namely, Animal Discoveries- 2012, Plant Discoveries 2012, Coastal Zones of India, National Wetland Atlas: High Altitude Lakes of India and National Wetland Atlas : Wetlands of International Importance under Ramsar Convention were released by the dignitaries for spreading awareness and sensitizing the citizens.
On the occasion, Smt. Natarajan, presented this year’s “Young Environmentalist of the Year Award – 2013”to Ms. Arundhati Srivastava, from New Delhi . She has been selected for this year award by conducting a National Level Poster Making Competition on the occasion of Earth Day on the theme : Face of Climate Change.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/world-environment-day-observed/

Child Protection Commission wants govt to safeguard school going children

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 5 : Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) today directed the state government and school authorities to ensure protection of children during their transportation to school and back home. A Nabachandra, Chairman of the Commission today issued 13 recommendations to the authorities in a sitting held here at its office. He said there should be proper policy to transport school children and government should fix the numbers of students to be taken in a school van/school bus.
Transport department was directed to check vehicles as per the Motor Vehicles Act. Transporters were asked not to take up multiple jobs, paint same colour for all school vehicles, Education Department, Manipur and the Transport Department, Manipur were directed to develop appropriate modalities for streamlining services of the school van/ school bus .
The decision were taken today after the Commission took up a suo moto case 15 school children falling unconscious inside a school van on May 23 last. The Commission noted that the silencer of the van was not working properly and Carbon monoxide was released inside the van. As it was raining on the said day the driver closed the windows which resulted in the students in the age group of 7 to 11 falling unconscious.
The driver after changing the van with the help of school teachers took the children to JNIMS where the students regained consciousness after oxygen was administered for about one hour. The Commission also noted that any delay in transportation of the children could have been fatal.
The Commission said as expressed in the Directive Principles of State Policy in Article 39 (f) of the Constitution of India that “Children are given opportunities and facilities to develop in a healthy manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity and that childhood and youth are protected against exploitation and against moral and material abandonment” the observations, recommendations and findings was disposed of. Members of the Commission K. Maharabi Singh, Y. Nolini Devi, Th. Jaya , Lamminlian Vaiphei , Ch.Nabachandra also were present during the hearing.