K-Featured – Page 62 – Manipur News

Normalcy limping back in ambush area; villagers returning home; administration thanked

CHANDEL, June, 18: With situation in Chandel limping back to normalcy, terrified villagers of Paraolon who fled their homes after the ambush on June 4 have started returning home from

Villagers roaming around with air gun at the ambush site at Paraolon, Chandel District, Manipur. Photo by Deepak Shijagurumayum.

CHANDEL, June, 18: With situation in Chandel limping back to normalcy, terrified villagers of Paraolon who fled their homes after the ambush on June 4 have started returning home from today.

The district administration initiated a measure wherein about 30 households belonging to Paraolon villagers have reached their homes in a shaktiman provided by the district administration. Many more have reported desire to go back home in a couple of days.

Chandel DC Robert Singh Khetrimayum who was travelling to Paraolon with the villagers also distributed items like rice and dal to the affected people. He was accompanied by CNPO president Ws Kanral Anal and chief of Paraolon village James Dilbung during the trip.

Deputy Commissioner also visited Moltuk village for an interaction with the Commanding Officer of 6 Dogra Regiment. He enquired about the state of Challong and Kotal Khunthak village at Moltuk. He met villagers of Moltuk and asked their problems and difficulties during which the villagers responded that no serious problem other than restriction of movement at night and night-halt in the fields faced by them currently.

Briefing the media, chief of Paraolon James Dilbung thanked the Chandel district administration for providing two shaktiman trucks, rice bags and some eatables.

He also thanked the Sector Commander of 26 Assam Rifles and Commanding Officer of 20 AR. He also thanked the CO of 6 Dogra regiment Moltuk post for assuring safety of his villagers and the adjoining areas and expressing willingness to help and live peacefully with the villagers as before.

The CNPO president Ws Kanral Anal, while expressing thanks to the district administration, Sector Commander of 26 Assam Rifles and the 6 Dogra regiment for their collective efforts to bring back normalcy, strongly appeal to all parties or groups not to disturb peaceful atmosphere again.

Exclusive Photos: Phaikoh Village Manipur Myamar Border, where Indian Army were supposedly picked up by Helicopter after the operation

Phaikoh Village lies in the border between Manipur (India) and Myanmar. The famous ‘Myanmar attack’ that Indian Army have claimed to have carried out against Naga/Metei millitant camps in the Manipur Myamar border or inside Myanmar, to take revenge against Manipur Ambush at Chandel which killed 20 soldiers, wouldn’t have been possible without passing through Phaikoh Village, Ukhrul Manipur. Photo journalist and freelancer Deepak Shijagurumayum and few of his friends visited the border village to find out the truth.

Click on any photos below to view at best resolution.

DRCM – IRCS Chandel Mission 2015 Report

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/drcm-ircs-chandel-mission-2015-report/

Chadonang partially submerged, villagers lament government`s attitude

IMPHAL, June 17: A media team visiting Chadonang Village in Ukhrul district had to use boats to wade through the water which had already started submerging large parts of paddy

Villagers posed behind a banner demanding review of Mapithel Dam before its construction.

IMPHAL, June 17: A media team visiting Chadonang Village in Ukhrul district had to use boats to wade through the water which had already started submerging large parts of paddy fields in the village.

Large parts of paddy fields in the surrounding area have been submerged in water reportedly ever since the Mapithel Dam Watergates were closed on January 15 this year.

Villagers of Chadonang, Thawai, Riha and Ramrei convened a public meeting today at Chadonang Village wherein the villagers also resorted to sloganeering and demanded `Don`™t evict us by force,` `Review Mapithel Dam first, construct later,` etc.

In the name of development, the government has cut off the livelihood of the villagers, lamented Chadonang Village chief Wungnaoyo.

He said the paddy fields which provide the villagers who are mostly farmers with their livelihood are already submerged in water and it is very likely that water would soon enter the houses.

Wungnaoyo also said that the villagers are not against the construction of the Mapithel Dam, but are against the fact that the expert committee formed to determine the compensation for the affected people is yet to submit its report. The committee is suppose to determine the compensation to be paid for the affected homesteads, land, forest, paddy fields, etc. he said.

At the same time, a case against the construction of the Mapithel Dam is still pending before the Manipur High Court and the National Green Tribunal, he continued.

We are not against developmental works, but the affected villagers should be properly compensated, he continued.

`Treat us like humans,` Wungnaoyo lamented before adding we are also people of the land.

Deteriorating livelihood in the name of development is a serious issue noted Citizen Concern for Dam and Development, CCDD Convenor Yumnam Jiten and said that previous dams constructed in the State all have failed drastically in their purposes.

He said Mapithel Dam will submerge more than 595 hectares of land.

Zoramthanga help brokered peace talks between Centre and NE insurgent groups

AIZAWL 14 June,2015: With the signing of ceasefire between the centre and the eight Mizo insurgent groups under the banner of United People’s Front (UPF) on Tuesday last, the talks

Photo source: IFP

AIZAWL 14 June,2015: With the signing of ceasefire between the centre and the eight Mizo insurgent groups under the banner of United People’s Front (UPF) on Tuesday last, the talks with the groups was ungraded to political level from official level, according to former Mizoram chief minister Zoramthanga.
Zoramthanga, who was present in Delhi during the signing of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) told PTI here today that delays in peace talks between the centre and the ethnic Mizo militant groups was harming mutual trusts between the two sides.

“Years have passed after signing SoO earlier, but without any formal parleys,” he said, adding that the groups did not sign SoO during the last nine months making the situation explosive in the north east”, he said.

The former revolutionary leader said that he helped in brokering peace between the groups and the government of India without actually participating in the talks.He said that his main role was to create mutual trust between the groups and the centre, lacking due to prolonged hostilities between the two sides.

“I did not want to be called as interlocutor or as any official mediator as my main role was to build mutual trust between the two sides,” he said.

The UPF constituents were the Kuki National Front (KNF), Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRO), Kuki Revolutionary Army (United), Zomi Defence Force (ZDF), United Kuki Liberation Front (UKLF), Kuki Revolutionary Front (KRF), Zomi Defence Volunteers (ZDV) and Hmar People’s Convention (Democrats), he said.

The militant groups headed by UPF chairman S T Thangboi were represented by leaders of the groups while the centre was represented by Ministry of Home Affairs officials headed by Sambhu Singh, joint secretary (north east) of the MHA.

Earlier, Zoramthanga, went to Myanmar and Bangkok two times to broker peace between the Myanmar government and 17 ethnic-based insurgent groups in that country.

Source: PTI

No respite from flood situation in Assam as rain continues over the region

Guwahati, 14 June,2015: Moderate rainfall has continued over Assam in the last 24 hours washing away chances of any respite. Brahmaputra River is already flowing above the danger level submerging

Guwahati, 14 June,2015:

Moderate rainfall has continued over Assam in the last 24 hours washing away chances of any respite. Brahmaputra River is already flowing above the danger level submerging various parts in the state.

The worst hit areas include Barpeta, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Sonit. The floods have rendered lakhs of people homeless and destroyed crops as well. No immediate relief is in sight as moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to continue over the region throughout Monday.

Moreover, in coming days, widespread moderate rainfall will keep Brahmaputra River flowing above the level of danger. Only when the rain stops can the locals expect some respite. Relief and rescue operations will be hampered by incessant rainfall.

Flood situation in Assam has worsened with over 3 lakh people being affected. After Brahmaputra and several of its tributaries covered fresh areas in Assam, more than 700 villages in 15 districts have been affected.

According to media reports, the most affected areas were Lakhimpur, Barpeta, Sonitpur and Dhemaji districts. More than one lakh people have been affected In Barpeta district alone. The death toll remained at two, one each in Lakhimpur and Bongaigaon districts.

Source: skymet

Girl helps rescue injured animal; veterinary hospital defunct

By Paojel Chaoba IMPHAL, June 13: If you come across an injured animal in the streets, the general reaction is to think that it is a sad event and generally

By Paojel Chaoba

IMPHAL, June 13: If you come across an injured animal in the streets, the general reaction is to think that it is a sad event and generally walk past the harmed being. However, not all people are alike and there is one among the crowd that just do not show concern, but rather act on it.

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Dr Devkishore (Claws and Paws of Keishampat), Neha and volunteers of PFA giving emergency treatment to the injured cow at a farm in Langol. (Pic source: PFA)

One such person is Rajkumari Neha, a 12 standard student of North Point School. She was driving along Uripok Kangchup road to buy medicine, when their vehicle beam flashed on a cow lying bloodied near the road crossing of Uripok Khaidem Leikai. The cow`™s mammalary gland was torn apart (an earth mover had struck the cow with the teeth of the vehicle and drove away.) The scene was more poignant as a month old calf was braying for its mother to get up.

Neha decided to act on the situation and went to the local electronic cable channel, IS Tv to report the incident as the owner may come forward.

She was replied that it was too late for the telecast since it was almost 10.30 pm and the technical team had left. Undeterred, she went to two local newspapers to put an advertisement and was carried so today.

However, as the owner failed to turn up, Neha decide that the minutes were mattering and the cow`™s injury could turn fatal if left untreated. She called up friends and a relative of hers who owns a cargo vehicle. Then, with the help of people from the accident spot, the injured animal along with the calf were hauled up the vehicle and taken to the State Veterinary Department at Sanjenthong at around 10.30 am today. There, the staff told the team to wait and that the doctor would be arriving any minute. But, despite waiting for one hour and more, no doctor came nor was any emergency medical treatment given at the animal hospital. As the animal was severely bleeding, the wait would lead to certain death for the animal. So, the team got in touch with Dr. Devkishore, who runs a private veterinary clinic called `Claws and Paws`™at Keisampat area.

Today , the doctor was looking after his farm located at Meitei Langol, Game Village. The People for Animals, Manipur (PFA) also got in touch with Neha Rajkumari and together took the animal to the said farm. On arrival, the doctor who was planning a Saturday lunch with friends dropped everything and gave emergency treatment to the cow. Oxygen and anesthesia was administered along with intravenous saline solutions to prevent dehydration. The udder of the cow which was falling out was stitched again. The entire operation took nearly three hours to complete . It was a testing time for the PFA volunteers , Neha and the doctor. Finally, the operation was over at approximately 4 pm.

The cow was given fodder and water, it could not rise to its feet immediately but regained strength to sit up and eat. Nearby, the month old calf hidden from view of its mother also lay exhausted, as it could not nourish for more than 40 hours. As a PFA volunteer went upto it, the startled calf sprang to its feet and started to bellow! At that time, the mother heard the sound and also cried back to be reunited with her offspring but could not get up. It was a touching moment for all the people that present at that time. Dr Devkisore exclaimed that the reaction of the mother was a good sign and there is every hope of a speedy recovery. The injured animal would be looked after at the Langol farm till full recovery is made, the doctor added.

`The medicine and other materials are provided free of cost by the doctor from his own pocket for the treatment,` PFA managing trustee, L Bishorjit said. The profits which comes from the doctor`™s private clinic is used to treat animals in need. Bisorjit complained that it is the duty of the Imphal Municipal Council to impound the stray animals let loose in the municipal area. However, there is no heed for the law and IMC turns a blind eye to the stray animals, which endangers animal and public alike.

Neha Rk also mentioned that without the help of PFA and the doctor, the animal would have died for sure. She asked the role of Veterinary Department and the animal hospital, `I am doubtful whether the doctors really care to treat animals, perhaps they feel that `animals should be treated as animals`™ as they cannot voice their plight, ` she said.

The pertinent question is what the State Veterinary Department is actually doing ? The matter has been advertised in the papers and suo moto action could have been taken up. But, even when the injured animal was taken to the treatment centre, no medical aid was given nor did any doctor arrive. The best result is the exemplary initiative taken by a young girl and with her determination helped to save the life of a cow and her calf.

Sources mentioned that requesting calls came from authorities of the State Veterinary Department not to disclose this matter to the media.

Eight district of Arunachal cut off due to Assam flood, shortage of foodgrains

Samudra Gupta Kashyap, Guwahati, 12 June, 2015: Rains in the Eastern Himalayas and the Assam valley over the past one week have cut Arunachal Pradesh off the rest of the

Samudra Gupta Kashyap, Guwahati, 12 June, 2015:

Rains in the Eastern Himalayas and the Assam valley over the past one week have cut Arunachal Pradesh off the rest of the country and left the Brahmaputra and its tributaries flowing above the danger mark in several parts of Assam. More rains are forecast over the next few days.

On the way to school in Balimukh village of Morigaon district in Assam on Thursday, rowing across what used to be a paddy field. (Source: Reuters photo)

Road links have been snapped in eight districts of Arunachal, leaving several administrative circles faced with a shortage of essential items including foodgrains.

“Though it is only the beginning of the monsoon, the situation is already very bad. Most of the border townships and circle headquarters in Longding, Tirap, Changlang, Anjaw, Dibang Valley, Upper Siang, West Siang and Upper Subansiri districts have been cut off by landslides,” said Bamang Felix, government spokesperson.

Itanagar, the capital, has been almost totally cut off. “The main National Highway connecting Itanagar to Bandardewa (Assam) has been blocked at Karsinga for nearly a week. The alternative road to Gohpur too has been snapped at several points. Itanagar is now connected only through a village road to Assam,” Felix said. At least three persons have been killed by landslides in Itanagar, not far from the chief minister’s home. Rains have led to such landslides in many localities and families have been shifted. “Water supply lines have been snapped and electric poles uprooted in many localities,” Felix said. Schools and colleges in Itanagar and Naharlagun have been shut until Monday.

In Anjaw, one of 10 districts that share a boundary with China, deputy commissioner Nyabin Ete said, “We are in a helpless situation. A bridge has been washed away between Hawai and Wallong, cutting off two vital Army positions at Wallong and Kibithu (near the border).” Ete said he trekked several kilometres on Thursday to return to Hayuliang after he was stuck on the road. In Upper Siang, through which the river Tsangpo enters India to become the Brahmaputra, five of the eight administrative circles are cut off. “Luckily, we had stocked enough foodgrains before the rains began,” DC Remo Kamki said. In Tirap, landslides have cut off Laju, an administrative circle on the Myanmar border, for more than 10 days. “The Border Roads Task Force had only a month ago cleared a major landslide between Khonsa and Laju. Last week, another landslide almost wiped out the road near Puntong village. This has also disrupted movement of troops to the border areas where operations are on against the NSCN-K,” said an official in Tirap. The situation has improved slightly in East Siang during the past two days with road links restored, said DC Nidhi Srivastava, but “electricity to many places remains suspended as landslides have uprooted poles”.

Source: The Indian Express

Any disturbance to peace would be appropriately dealt with: DoNER minister

IMPHAL, June 11: `I would rather prefer to concentrate on restoration and maintenance of peace and boost the dreams of the Centre to bring development in North East India,

Doner Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

IMPHAL, June 11: `I would rather prefer to concentrate on restoration and maintenance of peace and boost the dreams of the Centre to bring development in North East India, but if there is any element which tends to disturb the peace it would be appropriately dealt with` Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Jitendra Singh said referring to the June 4 ambush and the post ambush operation by Indian Army.

Addressing media persons at a press briefing today at the Old Secretariat, Dr Jitendra Singh said the Centre will always stand for the region through thick and thin and the people need to be confident that that the Centre is there to ensure peace and development in the region.

He also appealed to the people not to get disturbed or discouraged by such incident.

Dr Jitendra said the government will bring NE at par with the rest of the country which is precisely the objective of his visit.

The Minister, who is also the ex officio chairperson of North Eastern Council informed media that his visit is also to reassure the people of the State and NE that the development for the region is very high on the agenda of the present Central government.

He further stated, `We are here to commit ourselves to contribute whatever we can to ensure that there is peace and tranquility in the State which will be compatible with the optimum growth in the regions.`

Answering whether the govt would like to restore the truce pact abrogated with NSCN (K) if the arm groups is willing, the minister said that he would not like to get into the discussion personally as there are certain sensitive areas in the issue.

However, regarding post-ambush covert operations, he said Indian security forces have to and will appropriately deal with it with an object to restore peace and not to deviate from the agenda of development for the NE.

He said the `Act East Policy`™ and the `Make in Manipur`™ policy will continue and such incidence as the June 4 ambush should not be allowed to interfere and disturb the developmental schemes.

Dr Jitendra who had soon after his arrival in the State capital met the Chief Minister, said he had discussed the developmental initiatives taken up in the State by the Centre during his meeting with the Chief Minister.

He also said that he is very glad and satisfied as the CM also subscribes to the view that the people of the State and the people of North East are in fact fed up of violence and the recurrent disturbances in the environment which have deprive them of enormous benefits being enjoyed by the mainstream India.

The Centre`™s plan for development in NE can be accomplish only with close coordination between the State and the Centre, he said adding that the Centre is ready to provide whatever assistance is needed by the State government.

He said other interests of his visit are to speed up the proposed works for the Impha-Silchar road, commissioning the Thoubal Power project which plans to cater 18 hours of consistent power supply even in the remotest areas of the State and the issue of Sports University.

RPF belittles SF claim on damaging militant camps

IMPHAL, June 10: The proscribed Revolutionary People`™s Front (RPF), refuting the claim made by `Indian Occupational Forces`™ (IOF) on inflicting serious damage to militant camps inside Myanmar territory

Amunitions and Megazines recovered by RPF

A statement issued by Roben Khuman, secretary publicity RPF, conceded that on June 9 morning around 7 am, IOF attacked an OP mobile camp of the outfit`™s armed wing People`™s Liberation Army (PLA) in the interior part Ukhrul bordering Myanmar.

Some of the IOF crossed over the border while some from the border initially attacked a sentry post. However, the IOF were forced to retreat following stiff resistance from the side of the PLA, it said.

It further claimed that the outfit found blood stains besides recovering magazine containing full lives round when combed the area in the aftermath of the gun fight.

Stating that the attack occurred only at the PLA mobile camp, it said that the reports of inflicting serious human casualties to the militant as claimed by top brass of IOF during the cross-border strike was a cheap propaganda, it said adding that `The IOF has failed to tell the truth and misled the Indian people`.

It further appealed the people of Manipur not to believe in such lies.

NORTHEAST COMMUNITY LEADERS MET UNION HOME MINISTER SHRI KIREN RIJIJU TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF CIVILIANS IN CHANDEL DISTRICT FOLLOWING THE AMBUSH AND KILLING OF 18 SECURITY FORCES IN MANIPUR

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release, 9 June 2015 NORTHEAST COMMUNITY LEADERS MET UNION HOME MINISTER SHRI KIREN RIJIJU TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF CIVILIANS IN CHANDEL DISTRICT FOLLOWING THE AMBUSH AND

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release, 9 June 2015

NORTHEAST COMMUNITY LEADERS MET UNION HOME MINISTER SHRI KIREN RIJIJU TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF CIVILIANS IN CHANDEL DISTRICT FOLLOWING THE AMBUSH AND KILLING OF 18 SECURITY FORCES IN MANIPUR

New Delhi,9th June, 2015 ~Collective delegation from the Northeast Region of India met Mr. Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State on 8th June 2015 in North Block to appeal for his immediate intervention to the recent situation in Chandel District of Manipur. The delegation strongly condemn the ambush which left 18 security forces dead and scores of others injured that belong to the Dogra Regiment and have also expressed deepest condolences to the departed Indian Armies and shares the pain and sorrow of the bereaved families.

When the delegation apprised the Minister of Home for State, Mr.Kiren Rijiju on the present crisis in Chandel district, he has given his assurance that he will act on it and convey these concerns to concerned Ministers and authorities. The Minister also added that the concerned state government must cooperate in this process and must also inform the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Defence Ministry that are being taken care of from the side of the state administration.

Keeping in view the past history of massive human rights violations during army operation, the collective leaders led by Mr David Boyes, Ms Binalakshmi Nepram, Ms Alana Golmei

and Mr Zuchamo Yanthan have submitted a memorandum demanding the following points for the safety of the innocent people in Chandel district:

(1). The presence of civil police, and women’s representation in all military combing operations.

(2). Deployment of state police including women police officers and setting up of booths in those areas to coordinate with the army while they carry out the operation.

(3). Constitution of an immediate fact finding mission with immediate effect comprising the political parties, civil workers both men and women.

(4). That the present crisis must not lead to further suffering of the civilian in the areas.

(5). Ensure for peaceful combing operation without violating human rights bearing in mind the bitter memories and experiences of Oinam village in Manipur on 11th July, 1987. (After the killing of nine soldiers by NSCN, a counter insurgency Operation Bluebird was launched in Oinam village on 11th July, 1987. During the operation, there were unimaginable massive human rights violations of rape, torture, illegal arrests and detention, burning and dismantling of homes, dismantling of schools and churches, looting of property and forced labour took placed)

(6). Ensure the involvement of women in any peace process in Northeast India. There are presently 17 ongoing peace talks in the North East. However, not a single woman is included in the process.

The meeting with Minister lasted for 45 minutes and he has assured his best possible support to safeguard the people of Chandel district, Manipur and for people of Northeast region

ENDS

CC to:

Chief Minister, Manipur
Director General Police, Manipur
North East MP Forum
Chief Secretary, Manipur

Army-UG outfits engaged in fierce gun-fight along Indo-Myanmar border

IMPHAL, June 9: A fierce gun-fight broke out between a combined team of underground outfits and the army this early morning along the Indo-Myanmar border in Ukhrul district.

Manipur Ambush – heavy fighting in Manipur Myanmar border

IMPHAL, June 9: A fierce gun-fight broke out between a combined team of underground outfits and the army this early morning along the Indo-Myanmar border in Ukhrul district.

The gun-fight broke out during the massive combing operation conducted by the Army in the wake of the June 4 ambush.

A PIB Defence Wing statement has also claimed of the army being engaged in clashes with separate insurgent groups along the Indo-Myanmar border at two locations today.

According to reports from the Ukhrul district Police, the fierce battle between heavily armed cadres of UG outfits and the security forces took place near Ningshom Village under Kamjong sub-division in Ukhrul district.

The encounter site is around 60 km from the Chasad Police Station towards the Myanmar border, according to the police report.

The Ukhrul District Police headquarter received information through the Chassad Police Station of the gun-fight only around 11:15am although the two sides had exchanged fire since early morning and lasted for a few hours.

However, there is no official confirmation of casualties till the filing of this report.

Meanwhile, according to a press release issued by the PIB, Ministry of Defence, additional Director General of Military Operations (A) Major General Ranbir Singh, had read out the army`™s statement on the operations carried out in the North East.

He had said `You are all aware that following the attack on our security personnel on June 4 in Chandel, Manipur, we have been on a high alert. In the course of the last few days, credible and specific intelligence was received about further attacks that were being planned within our territory.`

`These attacks were to be carried out by some of the groups involved in earlier attacks on our security personnel and their allies.`

`In view of the imminent threat, an immediate response was necessary. Based on intelligence, we conducted operations to counter these planned assaults.`

`Early this morning, the Indian Army engaged two separate groups of insurgents along the Indo- Myanmar border at two locations, along the Nagaland and Manipur borders. Significant casualties have been inflicted on them. As a consequence, threats to our civilian population and security forces were averted.

Further according to the statement, Major general Ranbir Singh had said `We are in communication with the Myanmar authorities on this matter. There is a history of close cooperation between our two militaries. We look forward to working with them to combat such terrorism.`

`While ensuring peace and tranquility along the border and in the border states, any threat to our security, safety and national integrity will meet a firm response` he said according to the statement.

NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and KCP welcome ‘Joint Assault’ team

IMPHAL, June 9: Three senior leaders of the NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and KCP representing each organisations namely KCP president Ksh Laba Meitei, KYKL chairman N Oken and NSCN/ GPRN

IMPHAL, June 9: Three senior leaders of the NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and KCP representing each organisations namely KCP president Ksh Laba Meitei, KYKL chairman N Oken and NSCN/ GPRN chaplee Kilonser Starson accorded `a warm victory reception`™ to the Joint Assault Team that returned after the June 4 attack on the 6 Dogra Regiment, said a joint statement of the three outfits.

The joint statement made available to the media houses was signed by PRO NSCN/ GPRN Col Isak Sumi, dy secretary Publicity and Research, KYKL Th Thoiba and member-in-charge Information and Publicity, KCP S Mangal.

It said the reception was also attended by army chiefs of KCP, KYKL, and Col Isak Sumi of NSCN/GPRN.

Further according to the statement, the event was rather sombre for the losses of the unit commander, Maj Rajanglung of Naga Army and Cpl Amit alias Keisham Rajen, 27, son of K Khamba of Nongdren Maning Leikai, of KYKL during and after the battle.

It said `Late Maj Raza was hit by an enemy mortar shell in the battlefield and Late Cpl. Amit breathed his last on the way to a safer place from the battle, probably, due to heart failure.`

`The KYKL authorities were not aware of any sign of such latent ailment and he had not lodged any health complaint. The report that his dead body bore bullet marks is totally baseless,` it claimed.

The statement further said `If it happens to be a report given out by concerned Indian forces, it is nothing but a shameless lie.`

`Maj. Raza was not only valiant and tactical in battles, but also prudent and judicious politically. His acumen for combat plan could ensure easy success and his tactical guidelines for retreat could save the rest of his team even after his sudden demise. His death is an irreparable loss to the NSCN/GPRN organization and Naga national movement. Cpl. Amit was friendly to all and jolly to a fault. His commitment to the revolutionary struggle and cheerfulness in times of hardships could elevate the sagging morale of everybody. The vacuum caused by his death cannot be filled up easily.`

The joint statement also said the victory of the combined team `is a landmark step towards Naga Meitei unified struggle for WESEA against Indian colonialism and this particular event further forges the camaraderie spirit between the two struggling communities.`

The Elite Unit offered condolence salute to their departed comrades and the gathering observed two-minute silence in honour of the martyred souls, it said.

Teens braved inferno to rescue infants trapped inside burning house

By Alex Guite LAMKA, June 7: In a rare feat of courage and extreme act of bravery, two teenagers, Thangliankhai son of Thangkhanmung of Mission Veng and Paubiakmuan son of

A man watches helplessly as a fire razes the house to the ground

By Alex Guite

LAMKA, June 7: In a rare feat of courage and extreme act of bravery, two teenagers, Thangliankhai son of Thangkhanmung of Mission Veng and Paubiakmuan son of Khaikhup of Zomi Colony who were playing football rescued a two-year old boy and his three year old sister from inside their burning house, late yesterday evening.

The two children were inside as their mother had bolted the door so that they were unable to come out when a fire suddenly erupted engulfing the whole house.

Although the two siblings were saved, the rented residence of Joy Lalmuan, 28 son of Ngaka has been completely gutted by the inferno. However, the source of the fire is yet to be identified, although a faulty electric circuit is believed to have caused the fire.

Speaking to IFP, the two boys said they were playing football near the house when they heard children crying.

When they checked, they found black smoke billowing out of the house which was already on fire, the two said.

Seeing the fire, they rushed to the house and break open the door to enter in the house.

`We know that it would be very risky but the cries of the children made us to enter the house and save them,` they echoed.

`Luckily, there were no harm to the little kids and us,` one of them said.

Joy`™s wife Momoi, 25 said she had gone out to fetch water and had bolted the door from outside living his two babies inside, however all of a sudden the fire engulfed the whole structure.

The fire could have been more disastrous if the families gas cylinder was not empty, she said.

The fire must have destroyed property worth around Rs 3.5 lakhs, according to locals.

Meanwhile, the family is staying at the moment with their relatives at Tuibuang Village.

The grandfather of the children, Ngaka told IFP that in all the confusion due to the fire, his family is unable to still meet the two boys and thank them for their bravery.

`However, our gratitude for them is boundless, without them my grandchildren would not have survived the fire,` he said.

He further thanked the local neighbours and fire brigade team for helping the family douse the fire.

Full-State honour accorded to soldiers killed in ambush

IMPHAL June 6: A full State honour was accorded on the 18 soldiers of the 6 Dogra Regiment who sacrificed their lives in the June 4 ambush in Chandel district.

Governor Dr Syed Ahmed paying his repect to the 18 slain soldiers.

IMPHAL June 6: A full State honour was accorded on the 18 soldiers of the 6 Dogra Regiment who sacrificed their lives in the June 4 ambush in Chandel district.

The ceremony was held at the Tulihal International Airport on Saturday morning.

Their bodies were later flown home in an Indian Air Force Special Flight.

Governor Dr Syed Ahmed led the solemn ceremony with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam and GOC 3 corps lieutenant general Bipin Rawat, IGAR (S) Major General SN Srinivas and GOC 5 Mountain Division major general PN Rao in attendance.

The Governor also led in laying of wreath to the coffins of the soldiers which were adorned with the national Tri-colour.

Speaking to media persons after the ceremony, Chief Minister Ibobi said the government is open to talks and negotiation with any outfit if they lay down their arms.

The Chief Minister was replying to a media query on a feasible political solution and possible ceasefire with the perpetrating outfits.

It is the most unfortunate incident which every citizen of the country should condemn in the strongest term, he said.

We honour the soldiers who have laid down their lives for the country, he continued.

Taking a firm stand on the issue, the Chief Minister also said the NSCN (K) and some valley based UG groups are responsible for the ambush and we will fight against such groups.

No talk with such groups involved in inhumane acts is possible unless they lay down their arms, he continued.

He said we will also appeal to the Centre that it is imperative to closely monitor the international boundary shared with Myanmar which is around 300 km of hilly terrain and steep jungle.

He said we can also request the Myanmar government to assist us in crushing such anti-national elements.

Myanmar has been a safe abode for such groups, he added.

On the issue of border fencing, the Chief Minister said the State has been pressing the Centre to settle the dispute with the neighbouring country.

Combined operation in the area of the ambush will continue as long as deem required, he answered to a query on the duration of the ongoing combing operation in Chandel district.

17 soldiers killed, 16 others injured in ambush claimed by NSCN, KYKL and KCP

IMPHAL, June 4: Heavily armed militants ambushed an army convoy in Chandel district this morning, killing atleast 17 personnel including an officer and injuring 16 others in one of

manipur ambush claimed by NSCN, KYKL and KCP

IMPHAL, June 4: Heavily armed militants ambushed an army convoy in Chandel district this morning, killing atleast 17 personnel including an officer and injuring 16 others in one of the deadliest ambush since the attack on the Sikh Regiment by a hill-based militant outfit some years ago along the Imphal-Ukhrul road which killed 21 personnel.

Meanwhile, the NSCN/GPRN, KYKL and the KCP have claimed responsibility for the attack.

The convoy of the 6 Dogra Regiment was ambushed in between Charlong Village and Paraolon Village, 35 kms from the Tengnoupal Police Station along the New Somtal Road in Chandel district.

An unsigned joint statement of the three outfits said `A combined team of the Elite Strike Unit of Naga Army, KYKL and KCP assaulted five vehicle convoy of the 6thDogra regiment on June 4 at Tengnoupal `“New Somtal Road under Chandel district of Manipur and slain 20 personnel including one JCO and critically injured more than a dozen soldiers.`

`The assault started around 6 am and lasted till 9 to 10 AM.`

`The joint offensive has been launched in sync with each corresponding assertion for self determination and sovereignty.` the statement said.

According to the police, the 6 Dogra Regiment of the Moltuk post was being replaced by the 4 Assam Regiment and they were moving towards their Imphal divisional headquarter when the attack happened.

The personnel were in four vehicles and came under the sudden powerful ambush from the militants just 5 km far from their Moltuk post, police said.

The militants first triggered a powerful Improvised Explosive Device to damage the first vehicle of the convoy and block the way of the other vehicles and then fired RPG shells damaging two other vehicles, according to the police.

The attackers also used sophisticated weapons killing 17 army personnel including a Junior Commission Officer on the spot. Another 16 personnel were injured during the ambush.

Police also said some of the 6 Dogra Regiment personnel retaliated for sometime killing a suspected militant.

The bodies of the killed and the injured personnel were shifted to the Leimakhong Military Hospital in three helicopters.

It is also said that the militants took away weapons from the army, although the exact number of weapons and ammunitions is yet to be officially confirmed.

Soon after recieving information of the ambush, a Chandel district Police team rushed to the spot. Assam Rifles personnel from the nearby post also arrived at the scene.

Sharmila flown to Delhi for court appearance

IMPHAL, June 4: Anti-AFSPA crusader Irom Chanu Sharmila was flown to the national capital to make an appearance at Patiala House Court today. She was accompanied by a doctor, two

Irom sharmila

IMPHAL, June 4: Anti-AFSPA crusader Irom Chanu Sharmila was flown to the national capital to make an appearance at Patiala House Court today.

She was accompanied by a doctor, two nurses, an assistant jailer, a lady warden, a sub inspector and a constable.

Sharmila along with her team boarded the 9:45 am Indigo flight at the Tulihal Airport.

Speaking to media persons before leaving the JNIMS compound where she is placed in a special cell under judicial custody, Sharmila said AFSPA has already been lifted from Tripura, because the government there is sensitive to the desire of the public and works for them.

Whereas in Manipur, the government is more of a commercial polity, she said.

Sharmila also charged the government of benefiting several crores of funds in the name of anti-terrorism.

Voicing her concern against the AFSPA, Sharmila said after Manipur`™s forced merger to the Indian Union, the Constitution of India in an effort to control the small State seems to have given `Licence to Kill`™ even to the junior security personnel.

She further lamented that she was denied a meeting with the Home Minister on the ground that she was a judicial under trial.

Sharmila said there has been multiple amendments to the Constitution of India, then why can`™t it be amended one more time to address the issue of atrocities committed by the IOF in the smaller States like Manipur.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/sharmila-flown-to-delhi-for-court-appearance/

SAKAL questions govt`s commitment to repeal AFSPA

IMPHAL, June 3: Sharmila Kanba Lup (SAKAL) staged a protest demonstration against the failure of the State government to repeal the draconian Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), 1958 today.

SAKAL member shouting slogans demanding repeal of AFSPA.

IMPHAL, June 3: Sharmila Kanba Lup (SAKAL) staged a protest demonstration against the failure of the State government to repeal the draconian Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), 1958 today.

The demonstration was held at the temporary shed of the organization located at Porompat, Imphal East today.

Speaking to newspersons on the sidelines of the protest, convenor of SAKAL S Momon Leima reiterated that the controversial AFSPA had been lifted from the State of Tripura recently taking into account of the suffering and violation meted out to its indigenous community under the cover of the act.

She lamented that the same act has not been lifted from Manipur despite mass public outcry over the demand for repeal of the act from the state at the earliest.

The state government should follow the suit adopted by Tripura to repeal the draconian act as it will be too late to wait call of the Central Government to do the needful, she observed.

Ima Momon said that it was a glory for the Tripura that the draconian AFSPA was lifted from its soil.

There had been many incidents of picking up of youths, murder and disappearance of innocents by security forces in the name of counter insurgency. Also, many innocent people have been victimized by levelling anti-national charge, the convenor of SAKAL pointed out.

She continued asking that whether the 60 MLAs including Chief Minister O Ibobi should remain mute spectators to the atrocities committed by security forces under the shade of AFSPA.

Pledging that SAKAL along with public will launch different forms of intense agitation if the government remains silent over the collective demand for repeal of AFSPA; she cautioned that any untoward incident arises thereof should be borne solely by the government.

During the protest demonstration, members of SAKAL shouted slogans in connection with repeal of AFSPA from the state at the earliest.

Mention may be made that AFSPA was promulgated in the state of Tripura since February 16, 1997. The demand for withdrawal of such act persuaded at various levels at which the Chief Minister of Tripura Manik Sarkar remarked that `We could not take a decision because the security forces did not clear it`. He was saying this on the announcement day of lifting AFSPA from Tripura on May 27, 2015.

Around 1000 polling personnel fan out to 159 booths in Sadar Hills

KANGPOKPI, May 31: Polling officials selected for performing election duty during the 5th ADC Election 2015 to be held on June 1 in respect of Sadar Hills have left for

KANGPOKPI, May 31: Polling officials selected for performing election duty during the 5th ADC Election 2015 to be held on June 1 in respect of Sadar Hills have left for their respective polling booths in Sadar Hills from ADC Complex here today.

More than 1000 polling personnel including reserved personnel have been pressed into election duty in the 159 polling stations in the Sadar Hills.

While 47 booths are in Kangpokpi AC, there are 64 polling booths in Saikul AC and 48 booths in Saitu AC.

Five polling personnel have been deployed in each of the polling booths in the district, said Chunglenmang Kipgen, Returning Officer, Kangpokpi.

He continued that 27 candidates including six from INC, seven from BJP, four from NFP, two from LJP and eight Independent will go for the poll tomorrow in 47 polling booths in 7 DCC under RO Kangpokpi.

According to the Vulnerability Mapping, out of the total 159 polling stations in the district, 48 are considered as hyper sensitive, 59 as sensitive and 52 as normal, said the RO, adding that more than 200 vehicles including in reserved will be used in the election to ferry the polling parties and security personnel in respect of Sadar Hills.

The Returning Officer, Kangpokpi further said that District Council Constituencies along Imphal-Tamenglong Road have been categorized as Hyper Sensitive and Sensitive in the interest of voters and also to ensure free and fair voting.

Among many other Hyper Sensitive booths mentioned in vulnerability mapping by the district administration, all the six polling stations under 8-Wakotphai DCC in Kangpokpi and all the seven polling booths under 24-Bongbal Khullen DCC in Saikul AC have been also categorized as Hyper Sensitive.

As per report received from the Nodal Officer, in-charge of security, adequate security arrangements had been made for the poll, said the RO Kangpokpi, explaining that polling parties will be escorted by security personnel till their destination.

`All the polling parties were dispatched from this morning after successfully distributing the polling materials at Security Barrack, ADC Complex, Kangpopki and they will reach their respective destinations by evening,` added Chunglenmang Kipgen.

While informing that tomorrow`™s voting will begin at 7 am and will continue till 4.30 pm, the district administration called upon the people, who are not voters or candidates of the constituencies going to polls on Monday, to leave the area to ensure free and fair polling.

`I will heave a sigh of relief only after polling is over after which I will return to the district headquarter`, said a Presiding Officer.

“™Being a presiding officer, I will adhere to the responsibilities and ensure safety of my team during the polls,` said a Senior Headmaster from Twilang (IT.Road) area.

“™Some of my friends are going to a booth which is categorized as Hyper Sensitive but I am lucky to have been deployed at a normal polling booth`™`™, said a teacher from Saikul as he waited for his vehicle to leave.

A housewife who came to see-off her husband who has been assigned the duty of a Presiding Officer in the election said, `I am happy that my hubby has been engaged in a constitutional activity and at the same time I pray for his safe return because I have a heavy heart due to the fearsome election culture in Manipur`.

71 years on, Japan continues to remember Battle of Imphal: Ambassador Takeshi Yagi

IMPHAL, May 29: Even though 71 years have passed since the Battle of Imphal was fought, the name of Imphal is still deeply rooted in the minds of the Japanese,

Ambassador of Japan to India Takeshi Yagi and Australian High Commissioner to India Patrick Suckling unveiling the Memorial Plaque .

IMPHAL, May 29: Even though 71 years have passed since the Battle of Imphal was fought, the name of Imphal is still deeply rooted in the minds of the Japanese, and in fact Japanese groups still make memorial pilgrimage to Manipur every year.

This was stated by Takeshi Yagi, the Ambassador of Japan to India, during the commemoration of the 71st Anniversary of Battle of Imphal World War II and the Anniversary Ceremony of the `Battle of Red Hill Aka Point 2926` held today at Maibam Lotpa Ching.

The commemoration was also attended by the Australian High Commissioner to India Patrick Suckling and Chief Minister of the State Okram Ibobi Singh.

The Japanese Ambassador further extended his gratitude to the Manipur Tourism Forum, 2nd World War Imphal Campaign Foundation and Manipur Government for organizing such commemoration adding that he pay his tribute to the great heroes who fought in the battle of Imphal.

`Standing on this ground I am deeply pained to think of those who have experience extraordinary hardship. We should not forget that one of the harshest Battle of WW-II was fought in Imphal`, he said.

He thanked all the organisations and people of Manipur in particular for preserving and taking excellent care of the prayer memorial sites for such a long time including the Indian Peace Memorial which was constructed by government of Japan in the year 1994.

The Japanese Ambassador asserted that throughout its post war history Japan, filled with remorse over the war and bearing in mind that `our action`™ brought sufferings to people in Asian countries, has been contributing for the cause of peace and prosperity and further resolved to continue to do so in the future.

Japan and India have achieved very friendly and co-operative relationship particularly in recent years, he said adding that the interaction between the two nations have significantly expanded and deepened.

As for the North Eastern region of India, Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi and Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe had agreed in September last year to place special emphasis on Japan`™s corporation for enhanced connectivity in North East India and making this region an economic corridor for India and South East Asia, he maintained.

The Japanese government is already conducting technical studies of road networking programmes which include some roads in Manipur and as for other upcoming projects we hope that in co-ordination with the Centre and relevant State government our co-operation in this strategically important region will be further enhanced, continued the Japanese Ambassador.

Delivering his speech Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said `We have heard of countless tales from our own parents and grandparents of that dramatic period when we found ourselves in the midst of one of the greatest battles of the Second World War`.

It is therefore incumbent on us, the people of Manipur to ensure that this fascinating chapter of our own history, which uniquely connects us to many countries around the world, is remembered he observed adding that the 71st Anniversary Commemoration of Battle of Imphal is a key step.

At the same time, the government of Manipur is pleased to be supporting the initiative, he asserted.

According to the Chief Minister, Manipur`™s experience of the WW-II and its related heritage and assets, cemeteries, museums, memorials, battlefields, airfields, bunkers and trenches can be of interest to the people from around the world.

Not just for the families of soldiers and others who were here during the war, but even for others, such as students, scholars, military, enthusiasts, tourists interested in history, general tourists etc., the Chief Minister observed.

He maintained that the challenges for us for the future then will be to see how we can tell the story of what happened in Manipur during the war and develop and present its related heritage in a way that makes it interesting and attractive for visitors to explore.

Ibobi continued that the historical importance with the natural beauty Manipur as one of the best Tourist Destination not only in North East but also in India in attracting the tourist from India and aboard.

The State government will support in preserving these heritage sites as well as to promote the tourism potential of the State, he said.

The Chief Minister also extended his gratitude to the Manipur Tourism Forum and the 2nd World War Imphal Campaign Foundation for organizing the magnificent event.

Australian High Commissioner to India, Patrick Suckling found it amazing, the interest of India in commemorating and remembering the sacrifices and services of the Indian forces that fought in great wars.

He said that the role of Australia in WW-II especially in Imphal was focused in the air.

`Our forces flew in supplies and flew out injured soldiers. Altogether 12 thousands injured soldiers were flown out`, he said.

Patrick asserted that as per accounts of the soldiers, the fighting was very hard and the circumstance were tough besides the unforgiving hot weather adding that the Battle of Imphal was a significant battle in the WW-II.

Every year when Australians gather to commemorate the battle it was out of humility `We do so not to glorify war, not to commemorate victory, we do so to remember the horrors of war and to commit ourselves not to enter into such horrific conflicts`, continued Patrick adding that now Australia and Japan once rival are looking towards peaceful measures.

As a part of the commemoration ceremony befitting floral tributes was also paid at the Indian Peace Memorial.

The Chief Minister of Manipur, the Ambassador of Japan to India and the Australian High Commissioner to India jointly unveiled the Memorial Plaque inscribed with the story of the `Battle of Red Hill Aka Point 2926`.