K-Featured – Page 66 – Manipur News

Rajnath says plans afoot to raise two battalions in Assam and Manipur to accommodate and rehabilitate insurgents

Violence won’t be tolerated at any cost, says Union Home Minister IMPHAL, February 13: Union Minister for Home Affairs, Rajnath Singh today assured that plans are afoot to establish two

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh,Chief Minister Okram Ibobi and Union Minister of State for Home, Kiran Rijiji at a meeting.

Violence won’t be tolerated at any cost, says Union Home Minister

IMPHAL, February 13: Union Minister for Home Affairs, Rajnath Singh today assured that plans are afoot to establish two separate battalions in Assam and Manipur exclusively for surrendered militants who have come to join the mainstream adding that BJP Government.

This is in the firm belief that India cannot be complete or strong without first strengthening the Northeast, the minister said.

The minister was speaking to the press at the border town of Moreh this morning.

Rajnath and his Minister of State (Home) Kiren Rijuju, arrived in Manipur on two days visit. They arrived by a special plane of the Border Security Force (BSF) at the Tulihal Airpot, Imphal at 1.15 pm from there they went directly to Moreh town bordering Myanmar on an Army helicopter. The Director General of Assam Rifles also accompanied the Union Ministers.

After landing at the 9 Assam Rifles Head Quarter, the Union Ministers headed to the construction sites of the Integrated Check Post.

Speaking to media persons during the reception, Rajnath Singh said that his purpose for the visit at Moreh border town was to take stock of the situation of the progress of various developmental works implemented and also to inspect other requirements.

The Union Home Minister divulged that he will not allow any form of harassment by security forces against the people of the North East region as well as Manipur.

After the inspection, the Union ministers returned to the 9 Assam Rifles headquarters where they interacted with the Jawans and also the villagers settled in the surrounding area.

The deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, Tengnoupal MLA, Minister Govindas and other officials also attended present during the visit.

Later in Imphal at a reception by the State BJP, Rajnath said the NDA government believes that violence should not be tolerated at any cost. Give us a chance for five years to bring development in the NE, stated Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh who arrived in the State on a tour.

Attending a welcome party hosted by the State BJP unit at around 6 pm in its office at Nitaypat Chuthek, he said India now has a strong democracy after a non-Congress political party came to power at the Centre. Appealing to the NE people to give his party a timeframe of five to 10 years to develop the Northeast states, he said insurgency and militancy are the major problems of the NE states.

He also appealed all the insurgents in NE states to leave violence because India was now a healthy democracy where there was no room for violence.

He said the government would like to offer welfare scheme for UGs willing to participate in nation building as the NDA is committed to bringing development to the NE at all cost.

Further asking for five years to give the present government to prove its words, he said if the NDA government doesn`™t bring development in the next five years people in the North-east can blame him personally of failure. If anyone were to ask which region is the top priority for development in India, it is the Northeast region, he stressed.

Our Prime Minister has instructed all the 65 ministers to visit NE at least once in two months. The ministers have to visit NE and must review the development works taken up in NE. People and insurgents must know the true intensions of the NDA government, he said.

Violence and insurgency have to end in NE as the Prime minister is also giving more emphasis to NE States, he added.

He said the NDA government doesn`™t discriminate between States because it knows that when a State develops, the country will develop automatically. If assistance is required for a state, we will provide as much help to them, he added.

The nation has given its confidence to the BJP, now it is time for the party to honour the people for giving it this priceless chance. Let us increase BJP members through membership drives nation-wide. Let us contact people directly door to door, stated Rajnath Singh.

Union Minister of State for Home, Kiran Rijiju who also accompanied Rajnath said the Central team has inspected and reviewed all undergoing construction works at the International Check Post at Moreh today. The Look East policy of the Government of India has been changed into the Act East policy by PM Narendra Modi, with a sharp focus on the North-East as priority area, he said.

Moreh of Manipur will become the gateway to South East Asian countries. The lives of people in the North-East can change only when economic activities develop. In the last 68 years of Congress rule, there was no vision document prepared for the development of NE, he informed.

But the Prime Minister has instructed the Home Minister along with other Cabinet ministers of the NDA government to visit the NE states to review various developmental works in the region, he added.

The Home Minster has always given importance and attention to the NE especially Manipur. Manipur is a focus area because this land is the jewel of India, he said.

BJP state unit president Thounaojam Chaoba requested the Home Minister to advise the Government of Manipur to hold ADC elections in time after the expiry of the term of the earlier ADC members in May. The State should improve its law and order situation in the hill areas which has totally failed in the last many years and even PDS items have not been reached to poor people, he said.

He appealed to bring a solution for peace and development in the State and asked Home Minister Rajnath to impose PR in the state as this is the only remedy left for the problems of mismanagement in Manipur.

JNV Chandel teachers stage sit-in protesting against stabbing of teacher

THOUBAL, February 11: Following the incident of critically injury caused to a teacher after he was stabbed by one of his student yesterday, the teaching staff of Jawarhar Navodaya Vidyalaya,

JNV, Chandel teachers staging a sit-in protest

THOUBAL, February 11: Following the incident of critically injury caused to a teacher after he was stabbed by one of his student yesterday, the teaching staff of Jawarhar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Chandel staged a sit in protest at the school premises at Liwa Sarei in Chandel District today.

Since morning, teaching and non teaching staff of the vidyalaya gathered at the gate of the vidyalaya holding placards like “We condemn criminal act towards teachers” “teachers devoted their life for the students”, etc. and staged the protest against attacking of the teacher.

Speaking to the media persons at the sideline of the sit in protest, one of the teacher told that the incident happened yesterday afternoon when one of the student of Class XII who was sent home for his parent`s counselling after he was found smuggling in intoxicants inside the campus, stabbed LC Alex Pammei, a PGT teacher of the Vidyalaya with a knife.

While condemning the incident in the strongest term the teacher further appealed the school authority to bring amicable solution at the earliest in order to remove the fear psychosis among the staff and the students.

The critically injured teacher was admitted to RIMS Imphal first and later shifted to SHIJA Hospital`s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for further treatment.

It is worth mentioning that a Class XII student of JNV Chandel stabbed his teacher in the abdomen inside the school premises at around 2 pm yesterday.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister inspects Trade and Exhibition Centre

IMPHAL, February 9: Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Nirmala Sitharaman arrived in Manipur today to inspect the ongoing construction of the Trade cum Permanent Exhibition Centre at

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh handing over a bouquet to Union Ministr of Commerce and Industries Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday.

IMPHAL, February 9: Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Nirmala Sitharaman arrived in Manipur today to inspect the ongoing construction of the Trade cum Permanent Exhibition Centre at Lamboi Khongnangkhong, Timber Park Special Economic Zone project at Kuraopokpi in Thoubal district, and the developmental works taken up at Moreh.

On the first day of her two-day visit to Manipur, she took stock of the ongoing construction of the Trade cum Permanent Exhibition Centre in Imphal West.

She visited the construction site along with her officials and the State Commerce and Industries minister Govindas Konthoujam.

She advised the State authorities to take care of the construction being carried out at a swampy site and also advised to complete the project within 20 months instead of completing it in 24 months so that the people could benefit out of the trade and exhibition centre.

She said: `The Prime Minister has insisted that each one of his ministers will have to focus on the North East, State by State. We want to start four major projects including this trade centre. We are very keen to move forward with the four major projects. Before the monsoon we would like to see something positive.”

She said she was keen to give employment preceded by skill development along with the establishment of development projects in the state.

She also added that the government is cooperating with the state government to ease out disturbances in the region.

Later while attending a programme in the BJP State unit office, she said she have discussed about the potential of border trade in Manipur and other issues thoroughly today.

He added that she held discussions to improve the livelihood of people here by capitalising on the State`™s potential in border trade.

In this regard, she said, the Union Ministry will give maximum support to the State. The turmeric items, Ginger items etc found in the State have a lot of potential if exported abroard; so, if necessary, the ministry will help construct a food processing division in the State too, she added.

She said that her Ministry will help find the market for the items with potential found in the State. Jiribam has potential for rubber plantation, she said, adding the Central government will give equal treatment to the State even though it has a Congress led government.

She asked the government, while meeting with Chief Minister, to strengthen the border trade with Myanmar for more bringing more development.

Tomorrow, she is visiting the Special Economic Zone project at Kuraopokpi in Thoubal district and later will inspect development works being taken up at the Indo-Myanmar border town, Moreh.

JDU and CPI condemn BJP`s `immigrant` tag for NE people

IMPHAL, February 4: Janata Dal United, Manipur strongly condemns the incident in which people of the North East were referred as `immigrants`™ in a vision document of the BJP released

The CPI agitation against the use of the term ‘immigrant’ to refer to the people of NE by BJP.

IMPHAL, February 4: Janata Dal United, Manipur strongly condemns the incident in which people of the North East were referred as `immigrants`™ in a vision document of the BJP released yesterday in relation with the Delhi Assembly Election slated on February 7, stated JDU, Manipur president M Tomba Singh at a press meet in its party office today. JDU, Manipur has also sought a clarification from the BJP.

Tomba Singh said BJP has always done something detrimental to the people of the region. The then Union Home Minister LK Advani announced a ceasefire extension without territorial limits causing problems to the state during which 18 people lost their precious lives and many government department buildings and the State Assembly were set on fire, he added.

The BJP is again inviting trouble and a new June 18 uprising when its chief ministerial candidate at the Delhi Assembly elections, Kiran Bedi, termed the people of the North-east as immigrants for getting some votes, he said.

The BJP government has announced many developmental packages for Manipur within its hundred days`™ programme which is yet to be delivered, he said, adding the Janata Dal United and the people of Manipur were monitoring as to how far they have delivered on their assurances.

All the actions of the BJP are intentionally done and that is why the Janata Dal United believes that there could be hidden agenda of the BJP against the people of the North-east.

Meanwhile, members of CPI,Manipur staged a sit-in protest in front of the Gambhir Singh Shopping complex condemning the usage of the term `immigrants`™ while describing people from the North-east.

CPI Manipur State Council member and former minister, N Mangi alleged that the BJP had always acted against the interest of the people of the region. During the tenure of Atal Bihari Vajpayee as the Prime Minister of India, the inclusion of the word `without territorial limits`™ while conceding to the demands of NSCN( IM) for a Greater Nagaland sparked violence and witnessed the massacre of several people, he said.

Questioning the rationale of State BJP president Th Chaoba`™s Delhi visit for a political rally when NE people are termed as immigrants, he also stated that Olympiad Mary Kom has brought glory to the country in the field of sports. She has brought laurels to the country by representing the country and how come the BJP termed us as immigrants, he asked.

Indefinite bandh against alleged AR highhandedness affects busy Imphal-Moreh highway traffic

IMPHAL, January 30: The indefinite bandh imposed by the Tengnoupal village authority along the Imphal-Moreh highway has seriously affected normal traffic flow along highway. The bandh commenced from midnight yesterday

Women folk raising placards while imposing bandh at Tengnoupal along the Imphal-Moreh highway

As a result of the bandh, the Indo-Myanmar border trade, which has a daily business transaction of over crores of rupee was also affected by the bandh. Bandh supporters also prohibited the Vehicles and personnel of the Assam Rifles during the bandh, informed a source.

At the same time, over hundreds of vehicles are reportedly stranded at Moreh border town.

Bandh supporters also blocked the highway at Tengnoupal bazaar by piling up burning tyres, tree branches etc.

Local womenfolk also staged a sit in protest in the middle of the highway displaying placards and banners which reads, `Tengnoupal is not battlefield`, `24 AR is not the friends of the hill people`, `Down with Assam Rifles` etc.

The womenfolk also chanted slogans saying `Go back 24 Assam Rifles`.

Meanwhile, Tengnoupal MLA DK Korungthang also arrived at the bandh epicentre to take stock of the situation.

Speaking to media persons, the MLA divulged that he will appraise the matter to the Chief Minister and Home minister.

Although no agreement could be arrived at between the bandh supporters and the MLA for suspending the bandh, some stranded vehicles coming Moreh side including AR vehicles were allowed to proceed following a request from the MLA, sources said.

Speaking to the media persons, one of the bandh supporters said that some of the villagers including a pregnant woman and a paralyzed BP patient who were going for health check-ups were detained and prohibited to proceed at around 5.30 pm yesterday by the 24 Assam Rifles at Sita Lamkhai Check point and made them to proceed on foot for a distance of more than 2 kilometers.

She further said that villagers of Tengnoupal and its surrounding villages are not allowed to proceed back to their village after 6 pm by the Assam Rifles which is a direct deprivation of the villagers fundamental rights, she added.

While appealing for the removal of the Assam Rifles and their check post at Sita Lamkhai, the Women Leader warned that the villagers of Tengnoupal will intensify our agitation until and unless the Assam Rifles were removed.

Meanwhile, receiving reports of detention of villagers by the AR posted at Tengnoupal, a team of the Kuki Students`™ Organisation, Chandel led by its president and accompanied by media persons visited Tengnoupal.

Speaking to media persons, president of the student body Doumang Haokip said that the act of detaining and prohibiting villagers of Tengnoupal Village including a pregnant woman and BP patient to proceed to their village by the 24 Assam Rifles is not only condemnable but is also a gross violation of fundamental rights.

While endorsing the ongoing agitation of the Villagers of Tengnoupal Village, KSO President also appealed all individuals and other civil organizations to co-operate and endorse the indefinite bandh which was called against the action of the Assam Rifles.

Meanwhile, All Tribal Women Organization Chandel District and Chingtam Nupi Apunba Lup, Pallel strongly condemned the act of Assam Rifles for depriving the rights of the villagers and also expressed to extend its support the ongoing agitation of the villagers, sources said.

Chief Minister assures setting up a Rani Gaidinliu memorial site in Imphal

IMPHAL, January 28: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has assured all possible help from his government in setting up a memorial site for freedom fighter Haipei Rani Gaidinliu at a

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh offering floral tributes to a portrait of Rani Gaidinliu.

IMPHAL, January 28: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has assured all possible help from his government in setting up a memorial site for freedom fighter Haipei Rani Gaidinliu at a suitable site in Imphal.

He was speaking as the chief guest at the birth centenary celebration of the freedom fighter at the Manipur Film Development Corporation auditorium organised by the Kabui Mothers`™ Association today.

The Chief Minister also said that selfless sacrifices for the land made by freedom fighters like Haipei Rani Gaidinliu are priceless and can never be repaid by the present generations fully.

Rani Gaidinliu`™s statue will be erected at a suitable site in Imphal so that the present and future generations of the land may be able to identify her sacrifices and contributions, Ibobi said.

Making sacrifices was a natural gesture for Rani Gaidinliu, he said speaking of the freedom fighter.

On another note, the Chief Minister said the Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal railway line project which was started in the year 204 is today one of the fastest advancing project among 34 national railway projects and is projected to complete by December 2016.

Once the project is completed, it will be extended in a phase wise manner from Imphal to Moreh by 2020 and then from Moreh to Kalemyo in Myanmar, Ibobi asserted.

Stating that three labourers involved in the drilling of a 5 km long tunnel for the rail project at Awangkhul have been kidnapped by armed miscreants, the Chief Minister appealed to all concerned to release the labourers immediately and without any harm and not to disturb the national projects.

Meanwhile, speaking as the president of the observation, deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam recounted a brief history of the freedom fighter.

He said Rani Gaidinliu was a staunch follower of another freedom fighter Haipou Jadonang`™s struggle against the British since her childhood days.

It is a proud moment for the State that the Centre has released Rs. 5 and Rs. 100 commemorative coins remembering and acknowledging her contribution and sacrifices of the grand lady, the State deputy Chief Minister said.

Gaikhangam said the State government has already constructed a memorial park for Haipou Jadonang in Imphal and at the same time is trying to unveil the nine-foot-statue of the freedom fighter which is under construction, on his death anniversary next year.

The railway station which will be located at his birthplace Kambiron in Tamenglong will be named Haipou Jadonang Railway Station, he said.

Meanwhile, floral tributes were paid to a picture of freedom fighter Haipei Rani Gaidinliu during today`™s observation and two-minute silence observed in memory of the freedom fighter.

Chingjokpou Phaomei of Namdulong presented a Ra-Luh (indigenous musical instrument) recital while Guru Rewben Mangshava joined by his son presented traditional songs.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh also released a souvenir of the observation.

Planning and Development Authority chairman T Mangibabu, MLA Saikot TN Haokip, MLA Kakching Y Surchandra Singh, deputy Speaker Manipur Legislative Assembly MK Preshow Shimray, MLA Tamenlong Janghemlung Panmei also attended the observation as guests of honour.

State celebrates Republic Day amidst militant boycott call

IMPHAL, January 27: As celebrated in other parts of the country, Manipur also celebrated the 66th Republic day , with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh as the chief guest, amidst

IMPHAL, January 27: As celebrated in other parts of the country, Manipur also celebrated the 66th Republic day , with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh as the chief guest, amidst the boycott call from militant groups.

The main event was organised at the Kangla fort wherein Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, unfurled the National Flag.

2nd IRB assistant commandant Lunzamung Tunglung led the guard of honour for Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh.

The Chief Minister further conferred the Police medal for gallantry, President`™s Police medal for distinguished service and police medal for meritorious service, to 20 individuals which included 12 police personnel, five jail officers and men, three Manipur fire service.

The main highlight of the celebration was a 120-contingent strong parade which included contingents of ex-servicemen, students, security personnel, band parties. 12 tableaus from different department also participated in the parade.

The parade was led by 8th IRB commanding officer PG Singsit as parade commander.

Concluding the celebration, deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam addressed the vote of thanks at the 1st MR parade ground, which was supposed to be delivered by the Chief Minister.

Recalling the day when India became a Republic in 1950, the Deputy Chief Minister said that today India has become one of the most powerful and respected nations in the world.

Subsequently, a substantial change has been brought in Manipur under the leadership of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi, he said elaborating further that the present government has successfully built a mini secretariats, sports complexes in each districts besides bringing a commendable change in education, health and PHED, irrigation etc.

Infrastructure developments like the State assembly, High Court of Manipur, Mini secretariat have caught the attention of the tourists, he continued.

Maintaining that more changes are imminent under the leadership of the present Chief Minister, he appealed to the public to extend full co-operation for the successful implementation of other projects.

Owing to the absence of a full-fledged Governor from the State, he said the Chief Minister had to receive the contingent salute of the Republic Day celebration at Kangla.

The celebration was also attended by the council of Ministers, MLAs, bureaucrats, top police officials.

Meanwhile, the day was also observed in all districts of the State.

According to a DIPR statement, Chandel district celebrated the Republic Day at Maha Union Higher Secondary School ground with deputy commissioner Ningthoujam Geoffrey as the chief guest.

Cultural programmes, march past parade and prize distribution ceremony mark the day.

The function was attended by village chiefs and officers of the district.

Tamenglong district celebrated the Republic Day at Mini Stadium, Lower ground with DC RH Gonmei, hoisting the national flag. Altogether 23 contingents, which includes civil police, Manipur Rifles, VDF, school and college students, took part in the March past, according to a DIPR statement.

Tamenglong SDPO H Zone Laikho was the parade commander.

JNV girls`™ contingent stood the first, 5th MR Unit School stood second and JNV boys`™ contingent stood third in the March past competition, the statement said.

Tamenglong District News Bulletin published by District Information Office, Tamenglong and a magazine `Orange Festival 2014`™ published by State Level Orange Festival Organizing Committee were distributed during the function, it said.

Senapati district celebrated the 66th Republic Day at Mini Stadium Ground, Senapati with deputy commissioner Jacintha Lazarus as the chief guest, according to the statement.

It said a contingent led by SDPO PS Daiho gave Guard of Honour to the DC on her arrival at the celebration.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC appreciated the civil society leaders and tribe leaders for maintaining tranquillity and said that this will bring progress and prosperity in the land, according to the statement.

She also said that the District Administration has been trying to deliver goods to the public without any discrimination and biasness and all these are attributed to the collective efforts being rendered by the SDOs, DLOs and their subordinate staffs, it said.

The DC also informed that Senapati district is selected as one of the pilot district to implement a scheme as `Beti Bachao, Beti Padao` which is basically targeting the girl child and to ensure that there is no discrimination and every girl gets equal right to life and education.

Thoubal district celebrated the 66th Republic Day at Basu Ground, Khangabok, Thoubal.

According to the DIPR statement deputy commissioner, T Ranjit Singh unfurled the National Flag and received the salute of an impressive march past of 54 contingents commanded by Yairipok SDPO Hemanta Singh.

The parade contingents included cultural troupes, police, home guards, NCC boys and girls and students from various schools in the district.

A cultural programme, meritorious awards distribution ceremony and display of band party by 2nd Bn Assam Rifles were among the highlights of the celebration.

The celebration was attended by a large number of people from the nearby villages, it said.

Our Ukhrul Correspondent adds: Ukhrul district administration celebrated the 66th Indian Republic Day peacefully with the deputy commissioner Hrisheekesh Modak taking the salute at Bakshi Ground, Hungpung from the colourful parade contingents.

Addressing at the ocassion, DC Modak while reminding the denizens of the district that the government has made a great stride towards development during the past 65 years of Republic India, has called upon each and everyone to come forward and work together with his administration to bring about peace, prosperity and development in the district.

He also stressed upon the need for improvement in the socio-economic conditions of the people of backward corners like Ukhrul district.

At the same time, DC also lauded the student contingents for taking part in the national event.

Altogether 26 March Past contingents including 15 from different schools took part in the celebration. Among which, Little Angels`™ English School Senior Girls emerged the winner, while Ukhrul Higher Secondary School Girls and Scholar Pakshimi Boys got second and third position respectively.

41 AR, Somsai also exhibited a colourful Band Party Display while AR Somsai School students presented a Choreography item. Moreover, Halang Youth Council and Hungpung villagers displayed grand traditional folk dances.

Meanwhile, a friendly football match was organized as part of the occasion where DC 11 defeated TNL 11 by scoring 7-4. T. Rocky, MPS, SDPO, Ukhrul was the parade commander. Ukhrul SP, SDO, CEO, CO, 41 AR, Somsai, Ukhrul Block headmen also attended the function.

Press Release “IROM SHARMILA MAKE BY INDIA CAMPAIGN”

OFFICE OF THE Manipur Students’ Association Delhi New Delhi Ref. No.: 20150126MSAD/PR

OFFICE OF THE

Manipur Students’ Association Delhi

New Delhi

Ref. No.: 20150126MSAD/PR Date:26/01/2015

IROM SHARMILA, MAKE BY INDIA CAMPAIGN

Press release

Human Rights Committee of Manipur Students’ Association Delhi launched one month campaign on “IROM SHARMILA, MAKE BY INDIA CAMPAIGN”. The campaign was commenced today(26th Jan.2015) at the University of Delhi and it will last till 28th of Feb, 2015.

The campaign aims to showcast the contradictory of India’s policy of “make in India” and discourse in the North East region especially Manipur. In the 65 years under Indian administration, the government shows no interest to promote productivity of Manipur. Once a self sustained Manipuri economy has now become completely dependent on the import economy based on National Highway. So far their only product is more Police personals, VDF(Village Defence Force) and Special Police Officers (SPO), which results in the brutality and oppression to the people. All the stake holders of the state, political parties and civil society members have silently endorse the politics of AFSPA and its practice.

Indian National Congress strongly opposed the British colonial law- Armed forces special powers ordinance 1942.The same INC passed the Armed Forces Special Power Act in 1958 in more brutal way after some amendment in the Parliament.
The BJP resolved that they will never repeal as long as India exist.
The regional political parties like Trinamool congress, AIADMK, DMK, BSP, Samajwadi, Janata Dal Parivar, BJD continue to support this draconian law. AAP has no difference on AFSPA.
Most of the Indian thinkers, scholars, personalities, journalists have chosen the conspiracy of silence. Majority of the Indian continue to ignore AFSPA. 95% of the Indian intelligentsia believes that India could not sustain without AFSPA.
Indian nationalism could not imagine India without AFSPA.
Most Gandians who believe in non-violence hates Irom Sharmila and people struggle.
Indian political ideology and political thoughts, arthasastrya, religious texts justify everything and anything to sustain in the name of politics and security of the state.
Casteist, sexist and racist mentality does not allow to sense the pain and trauma of the people under military regime, its politics and the practice of AFSPA.
India hopes to produce more economy, entrepreneurship, business and compete with other countries around the world to make India a producing economy and propose “Make in India” programme. But in the case of Manipur and other military controlled areas, it produces more police personals, Village Defence Force (VDF), Special Police Officers (SPO), which again produce more brutality and oppression to the people.
After the annexation of Manipur by Dominion of India, in the last 65 years, the once self sustained Manipuri economy has now become completely dependent on the import economy based on National Highway.
India makes Irom Sharmila who is now carrying the longest hunger strike in the history of mankind. She has been on fifteen years of fast against AFSPA.

Hence street corner meeting, area meeting, class mobilisation and online campaign will be the part of this campaign. MSAD appeal all the people of Manipur and students to support the campaign.

Sd/-

Secretary, Public Relations

Bipinchand Pheiroijam

Another IED blast rocks Imphal

IMPHAL, January 25: Giving another severe blow to the law enforcing agencies, a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Imphal on the eve of the 65th Republic Day celebration.

State Police personnel inspecting the site of the IED blast at the western bank of the Nambul river, opposite Keishamthong Moirang Ningthou Leirak.

IMPHAL, January 25: Giving another severe blow to the law enforcing agencies, a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Imphal on the eve of the 65th Republic Day celebration.

Today`™s explosion took place this morning around 9.30 am at the western bank of Nambul river, opposite Keisamthong Moirang Ningthou Leirak. The blast site was just about 20 metres away from the place where an explosion ripped off on January 23 evening.

The IED was detonated by a remote controlled device, said official sources.

The place was reportedly teeming with security personnel keeping vigil 24×7 in view of the Republic Day celebration. This is the sixth blast within Imphal city in less than a week and Police are still groping in the dark.

Bomb blast in unending succession has been continuing since January 20.

On the other hand, armed miscreants attacked the group centre CRPF, Mongsangei, using hand grenade last night along Mayai Lambi, Singjamei police station. However, no casualty was reported.

Sources said that camp came under attack twice, the first one around 8.30 pm which landed within the campus and seconds later another grenade exploded. Chinese made hand grenades ware used in the attacks.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/01/another-ied-blast-rocks-imphal/

Information Manipulation, Stated Beliefs and Revealed Beliefs: Manipur’s current methodology

By Amar Yumnam Governance has now attained the “the status of a lost word of the English language to a fashionable and challenging concept in a range of disciplines and

By Amar Yumnam

Governance has now attained the “the status of a lost word of the English language to a fashionable and challenging concept in a range of disciplines and research programmes.” In fact, governance is now a key word in every discussion of a society and its economy. But any discussion on governance is never complete without referring to a 1532 book, The Prince, of Niccolò Machiavelli. Looking at the challenges of reforms and the absence of political responsiveness to widely shared public issues in Manipur, Machiavelli sounds like the most appropriate commentator. He wrote in 1532 thus: “And it should be realized that taking the initiative in introducing a new form of government is very difficult and dangerous, and unlikely to succeed. The reason is that all those who profit from the old order will be opposed to the innovator, whereas all those who might benefit from the new order are, at best, tepid supporters of him. This lukewarmness arises partly . . . from the skeptical temper of men, who do not really believe in new things unless they have been seen to work well. The result is that whenever those who are opposed to change have the chance to attack the innovator, they do it with much vigour, whereas his supporters act only half-heartedly; so that the innovator and his supporters find themselves in great danger.” This sounds exactly like a commentary on contemporary Manipur. The response in terms of electoral outcomes, the responsiveness of the political elite to the core issues of the people, and the very character of action of the administration in Manipur all reflect the very phenomenon explained nearly five centuries back.

But this is not the end. Manipur has now acquired additional aspects in this and with a very dangerous outlook for the society. The degraded character of governance functioning has now taken roots in the very functioning of the individuals themselves. Till recently the problem was one of divergence between the stated beliefs of the political class and the beliefs revealed in their actions; there was no convergence between the two. The public felt this and despite the Machiavellian weakness of inability to effectively organise at the collective level, there were voices of dissent loud and clear. Now this has almost disappeared. In a context where the government sector is the only effective and widespread employer of people, the governing class has been able to corrode the core values and principles of governance of every government sector and institutions such that the relevance of dissent has been murdered. All in the government sector and all those who aspire to get access to the facilities of the government have only sacrificed their personal beliefs and joined the bandwagon of sycophancy. This has led to the below par quality in any delivery by the government and the institutions in Manipur in every aspect of performance. The situation has reached such a level that even the non-state forces, which had promised a better world and elimination of the negative traits in the governance in the beginning, are now strong partners in the game of non-convergence between stated beliefs and revealed actions. This is a very violent atmosphere where the very source of any dissent could be eliminated as the two partners, the state and pseudo-anti-state forces, have the capability to indulge in any violence without accountability; there have been and there are examples of this in Manipur. It is a kind of scenario where the scope for recovery to an ameliorated social context is hugely stunted.

Now we may wonder how such a situation can prevail for long. The answer has to be found in what is happening with information sharing. A very systemic disease of the governance as manifested in the functioning in every government sector and institutions in today’s Manipur is the indulgence in information manipulation. Information is manipulated in such a way that the stated beliefs are taken as genuine ones by the populace. It is also done to cover the revealed actions so as to make them appear as truly reflecting the stated beliefs. There is a large scale indulgence in information manipulation. Some people are aware of this game but there is the Machiavellian weakness and the contextual danger of being victim to elimination.

Thus such a beautiful land of Manipur is now dominated by people who manipulate information to portray positive images while stealing in every possible way. This game is administered by the sharing of booty by state and pseudo-anti-state forces. This has murdered the scope for common people to organise in any way to voice dissent with every probability of getting lives eliminated without accountability. Manipur is now really dirty, dangerous and deadly. One has to be a practitioner of the game or leave the land behind. It is a place where there is no scope for theory, no scope for critique, and no scope for social amelioration. Who cares?

Another case of recovery of human skeletons alleged

IMPHAL, January 18: Another report of recovery of human skeleton from campus used by paramilitary force has surfaced, in the wake of the clamour to determine the mystery behind the

IMPHAL, January 18: Another report of recovery of human skeleton from campus used by paramilitary force has surfaced, in the wake of the clamour to determine the mystery behind the recovered skull and bones from erstwhile Tombisana High School.

In this fresh case, skeletal remains were reportedly unearthed while digging the campus of a VDF post to construct the fencing situated at Chothe village, Bishnupur district head quarter. The camp was used by paramilitary forces.

This was disclosed by the People`™s Action for National Democratic Movement (PANDM) president, Yumnamcha Dilipkumar today at the fifth foundation of the group held today at Manipur Press Club.

The PANDM president said that they received the information from local sources of Chothe village adding that they would set in motion an investigation to authenticate the report.

Dilipkumar appealed all the NGOs, intellectual etc to visit the place to obtain more clues presuming that it could be victims of enforced disappearance.

Stating that PANDM will extend their full support, Dilipkumar said that it would leave no stone unturned.

Meanwhile, the PANDM president spelling out the objective of the group was to make a corruption free state, he informed that it will soon launch a campaign call `Zero-Corruption`.

Even as the MLAs, Ministers and other to bureaucrats speaks of wiping out corruption, they are the one responsible for the menace, said Dilipkumar adding that he exhorted the need to end the trend of taking bride from candidates while recruiting Government job.

Retd Lt Col, RK Rajendra, addressing the gathering as the chief guest termed the prevailing situation unfortunate for the state State government has not able to give any information about the recovered skulls and skeletons from former Tamphasana High school campus.

He asserted that a suo-moto case would have been registered against the Government had the State Human Right Commission is operational today.

The observance was also attended by N Shanta Singh, National Awardee Chairman cum Managing Director Manipur Finance and Business Ltd. Cum Advisor, PANDM as guests of honour.

Though AFSPA lifted from Imphal, the two capital districts have most troops stationed

By DNbir IMPHAL, January 16: Manipur`™s twin capitals Imphal East and West districts, has topped the chart of being the districts with the highest number of security forces deployment excluding

Army within AFSPA free areas

By DNbir

IMPHAL, January 16: Manipur`™s twin capitals Imphal East and West districts, has topped the chart of being the districts with the highest number of security forces deployment excluding civil police.

According to highly reliable sources, altogether there are seven security groups operating within the districts including Army, paramilitary forces and state forces. No doubt being the capital vital Government institutes are stationed within these districts. However, the figure comes as a surprise for the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) had been withdrawn from seven assembly segments of the two districts.

The Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF) is stationed in 27 different places within the districts, which include CRPF-group centre, 32 Battalion CRPF, 69 Bn CRPF, 86 Bn CRPF, 109 Bn CRPF, 143 Bn CRPF, 213 Bn CRPF. Of the total, 23 are stationed in Imphal West, while the remaining four are stationed in Imphal East.

The India Reserve Battalion (IRB) has the highest number of battalions including 1st IRB Bn, 2nd Bn IRB, 3rd Bn IRB, 4th Bn IRB, 5th Bn IRB, 6th Bn IRB, 7th Bn IRB, 8th Bn IRB (CDO), 9th Bn IRB.

The Army has only two regiments operating within the Imphal West district. They are stationed in five different places including a battalion head quarter of the 12 Bihar Regiment along with three posts and a company of the 9 Dogra Regiment.

The Assam Rifles are operating in 10 places including the 9 Sector with five battalions, IGAR (S), 10 AR, 16 AR, 30 AR, 40 AR five of which are station in Imphal West and the rest in the Imphal East.

The Border Security Forces (BSF) has only one battalion, 49 battalion BSF, including a sector head quarter, CI Ops and stationed in ten places of which eight is station in Imphal East and the remaining in the West.

The Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF) is stationed in only two places of the Imphal West district including CM office and residence and Tulihal Airport.

Meanwhile, the Manipur Rifles has only three battalions including the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles and 2nd Bn MR, 7 Bn MR.

Though AFSPA lifted from Imphal, the two capital districts have most troops stationed

By DNbir IMPHAL, January 16: Manipur`™s twin capitals Imphal East and West districts, has topped the chart of being the districts with the highest number of security forces deployment excluding

Army within AFSPA free areas

By DNbir

The India Reserve Battalion (IRB) has the highest number of battalions including 1st IRB Bn, 2nd Bn IRB, 3rd Bn IRB, 4th Bn IRB, 5th Bn IRB, 6th Bn IRB, 7th Bn IRB, 8th Bn IRB (CDO), 9th Bn IRB.

The Assam Rifles are operating in 10 places including the 9 Sector with five battalions, IGAR (S), 10 AR, 16 AR, 30 AR, 40 AR five of which are station in Imphal West and the rest in the Imphal East.

The Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF) is stationed in only two places of the Imphal West district including CM office and residence and Tulihal Airport.

Meanwhile, the Manipur Rifles has only three battalions including the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles and 2nd Bn MR, 7 Bn MR.

NPF leaders reveal Nagaland CM`s murky transactions in foreign bank accounts

IMPHAL, January 15: Nagaland People`™s Front president Noke Wangnao and leader of NPF legislature party Kaito Aye have alleged that now it was crystal clear why former party president Dr

IMPHAL, January 15: Nagaland People`™s Front president Noke Wangnao and leader of NPF legislature party Kaito Aye have alleged that now it was crystal clear why former party president Dr Shurhozelie has stood firmly behind T.R. Zeliang despite the latter losing popular support of the NPF and Democratic Alliance of Nagaland MLAs.

In a press release, the two party leaders stated that the real motive behind the support was the exchange of enormous amounts of black money that changed hands through multinational companies and which were deposited in foreign banks.

The two leaders in the press release mention that documents of international money transfers to TR Zeliang and his wife`™s accounts in Hong Kong and Kuala Lampur sent from Singapore are in their possession (a copy of which has been provided to the IFP).

The details of money transfers contained in the documents are to the tune of more than 78 crores, it said.

The two leaders also released some documents giving the details of money transactions of more than Rs. 78 crores and 66 lakhs. The documents reveal that an amount of 70,00,000 Singapore dollars roughly equivalent to Rs. 32,37,50,000 was transferred on August 16 last to Zeliang`™s bank account at the Royal Bank of Canada, Hong Kong by a certain Ramasamy Veeran from an account at the DBS Bank Ltd, Six Sheraton Way, DBS Building, Singapore.

The documents also further reveal that an amount of 1,00,08,500 Singapore dollars roughly equivalent to Rs. 46,28,93,125 was transferred to the account of Zeliang`™s wife, Kevizenuo Rangkau on September 26 last year at the RHB Bank BHD, Kuala Lumpur.

The money was transferred from an account at the OCBC Bank BHD, People`™s Park Centre, Singapore belonging to a certain Raguvaran Murali who mentions Ramasamy Veeran as his contact person, according to the document.

The enormous amount of illegal money is used to lure MLAs and party workers to favour Zeliang, it said, adding a syndicate of few ministers and politicians are secretly running the affairs of Nagaland and making unbelievable amounts of money for their personal gains.

It said they are selling Nagaland and the rights of the Naga people and carrying out international money transfers and moving black money which is being kept in foreign bank accounts.

`All this transferring and movement of black money is not only illegal and a direct admission of corruption but they are also a threat to national security of the country and needs to be investigated by competent authorities of the country so that those responsible can be punished as per the law of the land`, the two NPF leaders said in the press release.

Stating that the shocking revelations of his involvement in the corruption and transferring of black money requires his immediate removal as Chief Minister, it said he has no more moral authority to continue even for a single day as the Chief Minister of Nagaland.

In the press release, the two leaders accused him of not only being a minority Chief Minister but also a Chief Minister who has been selling Nagaland and the rights of the Naga people for his own personal gains.

`We have several more revelations to be brought out to the public domain on how he is involved in high corruption and how he has been releasing hundreds of crores as payments to selected contractors for his self gains`, the two leaders said in the press release, adding all this while he has been harping of the deficit and financial crisis in Nagaland while continuing to release funds wherever he has benefited. In just a few months as Chief Minister, he has accumulated hundreds of crores and has concentrated solely on making money as he always knew that his days as the Chief Minister were numbered, it said.

Even now, under the present political circumstances, the Chief Minister is clearing dozens of files everyday making crores and crores of payments under illegal circumstances and making money by keeping all his few MLAs and Ministers under forced confinement at de Oriental Grand hotel in Kohima, the two leaders said in the release.

Another fact that needs to be pointed out is that all the ministers, parliamentary secretaries, advisers and chairman who are supporting Kaito Aye have already tendered their resignations protesting against the illegal, unconstitutional and dictatorial orders of the Dr Shurhozelie and also due to the fact that Zeliang is now in the clear minority, it said.

In the press release, the two leaders assure the people of Nagaland that they will fix responsibility and punish him as per the law of the land once a popular government is installed in Nagaland. Any bureaucrat or politician, who is obeying the illegal instructions of the minority Chief Minister, will also be held responsible for their actions, the press release warns.

It is a clear sign of his inability and present minority position that the minority Chief Minister had called the officers and bureaucrats of the State Government to explain his political position and justify his embarrassing loss of confidence by the elected Members, it said, adding Zeliang has not only demeaned the office of the Chief Minister but also embarrassed himself and brought disrepute to the entire establishment in carrying out this immature and childish actions.

Suspected PLA militants attack AR camp injuring two personnel

IMPHAL, January 15: Two personnel of the Assam Rifles including a JCO were injured when suspected PLA militants attacked the AR camp located at Machi under Chandel district late last

IMPHAL, January 15: Two personnel of the Assam Rifles including a JCO were injured when suspected PLA militants attacked the AR camp located at Machi under Chandel district late last night.

According to reports, the incident occurred around 11.30 pm.

The camp is a Company Operating Base (COB) of the 20 Assam Rifles situated under Tengnoupal police station.

The militant reportedly attacked the camp from a hill top using sophisticated weapons including RPG and rocket launchers. Besides injuring the two personnel the attack also inflicted some damage to the camps, informed sources.

The injured personnel have been identified as Jeet Bahadur Suner, Naib Subedar (2002169 A) and rifleman T Chentya (5113719). Both sustained bullet injuries and were evacuated to military hospital Leimakhong early morning today.

It has been further informed that a massive operation was conducted today in an around the area from where the attack was launched.

Helicopters were also used during the operation, it said.

More than one lakh deaths due to accidents annually in the country: AIRTWF secretary

IMPHAL, January 14: Manipur is the only State in the whole country where dead drivers of transport vehicles plying along the national highways are remembered and commemorated, said All India

Floral tribute being offered to portraits of deceased drivers.

IMPHAL, January 14: Manipur is the only State in the whole country where dead drivers of transport vehicles plying along the national highways are remembered and commemorated, said All India Road Transport Workers Federation secretary advocate Hareshwor Das today.

He was speaking at the 26th Drivers`™ Day celebration at the ISBT Complex.

Family members led others in offering floral tributes to portraits of the deceased drivers.

Continuing further, Das said his federation has been trying to do the same- commemorate the deceased drivers- for long.

Acknowledging the dangers that the drivers of the region had to undergo, he said the entire North Eastern States are mostly hills and on top of that the roads are in deplorable conditions, however, the Centre continues to remain silent.

The total length of road in India is 33.14 km on which some 15.92 crores of vehicles are plying daily and there is an 11 percent increase in the number of vehicles on daily basis he observed.

More than a lakh of people die while around 10 lakh are injured every year in road accidents he observed.

Elaborating further, he said Rs 70000 crore is utilised to control road mishap damages which amounts to around 3 percent of the total GDP.

The Narendra Modi government is also trying to replace the Motor Vehicle Act 1988 with the new Road transport & Safety Bill, 2014 he observed.

He said the new bill will magnify fines and extend imprisonment period.

He said that the All India Road Transport Workers Federation has been agitating against the new bill as most provisions of the bill are against the welfare of drivers. He also appealed to all associations and unions working for the welfare of drivers to join hands in agitating against the implementation of the new bill.

Das also said that the high number of accidents is mostly due to the poor road condition.

The day was organised by the All Manipur Petroleum Tankers Drivers`™ Union and was also attended by senior Depot Manager IOC Ltd, Manipur Sinam Ibungoton Singh; president Golaghat District Drivers Union, Assam Pabon Barua; President NH 53 Truck Owner Association, Imphal Kh Inaoba Meetei; secretary Centre for Indian Trade Union, Manipur Sarat Salam and president AMPTDU Y Bhupenchandra Ghosh as guests of honour and president respectively.

As part of function devotional songs were presented.

Later gifts were distributed to the family members of deceased drivers`™ family and veteran drivers.

Tangkhul village decides to allow women in apex village decision making body

IMPHAL, Dec 14: In an unprecedented and historical move the People of the Ringui (Tongou) village formally resolved to allow the women of the village to be elected as members

Tangkhul village decides to allow women in apex village decision making body

IMPHAL, Dec 14: In an unprecedented and historical move the People of the Ringui (Tongou) village formally resolved to allow the women of the village to be elected as members in the traditional village Court in the village Assembly held on yesterday, a report said.

The village also resolved that the Church should not discriminate women by denying them of their right to hold high offices of the Church simply because of their gender. It was resolved that the church should henceforth open up the position of Deconness and pastorship to women, the report added.

It further said, a motion to abolish the tradition of not allowing women folks in the court of the Naga village was moved by the president and general secretary of the Ringui Shanao Long (Ringui Women`™s League), which then was carried forward by the chief of the village Atem A Shimray and the Speaker of the House, Abel Ahum.

In his explanation, the headman informed the villagers that such legislation was not only necessary but an obligation for all the men folks, if the village and the people at large are to see progress, the report said.

Emphasising that the participation of women in the decision making of the society is vital to the overall development of the society the Speaker urged the Assembly to look beyond the present and not be restrained by traditions. He reminded the villagers that the role of women in the Tangkhul Society was much more than what has been practised now, it said.

It may be reminded that the Apex Tangkhul Women`™s League `“ the Tangkhul Shanao Long has recently raised the issue of women`™s representative in the Tangkhul Naga Long. The decision of the Ringui Village Assembly has paved the way for other villages to follow suit and expedite the process of reformation within the traditional tribal institution, it added.

It may be recalled, the Nagaland Assembly had recently expressed its inability to implement the women reservation Act in Nagaland due to opposition from the village councils.

Nagaland News: Chizami Za (Day) celebrated amid fanfare

CHIZAMI (Phek), Jan 11 (NEPS): For the first time, a grand Chizami Za (Day) has been celebrated with pomp and gaiety on January 8 here at the Chizami Local Ground

Chizami Za celebration picture. Chakhesang Tribe of Nagaland

CHIZAMI (Phek), Jan 11 (NEPS): For the first time, a grand Chizami Za (Day) has been celebrated with pomp and gaiety on January 8 here at the Chizami Local Ground under Phek district. Around four thousand villagers and families of those who married to other non-Chizamians attended the spectacular “Chizami Za” celebration organized under the theme “Recognizing history, celebrating the present, inspiring the future.”
Rich traditional songs and dances, cultural items, Music, Indigenous Games, Sports, Education and Religious Ceremonies, war preparation show and other cultural items like Lorhi Ketshe and Makru Kefu dominated the Chizami Za celebration. There were also highlights of colorful extravaganza of Arts and Crafts, Food, Flowers, Attires, and Sales during the celebration.

Chizami Za celebration picture. Chakhesang Tribe of Nagaland

Speaking on the occasion, Lhiwepelo Mero, Retd Director, Agriculture, urged the people of Chizami to learn how to live on their own feet. “Let us not be beggars or depend on others to live,” he said and further asserted that nothing was too small to do.
Calling emphatically upon the Chizamians to work to be independent, Mero also stated that they should not depend for everything on politics. “Give your best in whatever field you are by putting your full trust in God,” he added.
He called upon the Chizami men to love their wives, while encouraging the Chizami women married to non-Chizamians to love their husbands. “So that together we can make Chizami a model village,” he added.

On behalf of all the in-laws, Oken Jeet Sandham, Editor of the NEPS News and president of Muaythai Federation of India, who married a Chizamian, delivered greetings on the occasion. He called upon the Chizamians that they should give up the hedonistic lifestyles and must learn not only how to live independently but also try to know what their counterparts had been doing and how the world was going on. “We must know how to choose a good and capable leader in order to bring changes in the village,” he said. “Politics can never thrive when we remain aloof from the people and grassroots people.”
Oken Jeet Sandham also assured the Chizamians that wherever they were, they would always see that the welfare of the people of the Chizami would be given top priority in whatever capacity they could.

Chizami Za celebration picture. Chakhesang Tribe of Nagaland

In his welcome address, Kewepelo Tsuhah, Chairman, Village Council Chizami, said the Chizami Za was a time to inspire the future and called upon the people to give their best to the younger generation who would be their future pillars.
The significance of Chizami Za is to preserve, promote and celebrate the rich cultural heritage and social dynamics of Chizami Village. It is also to renew and build family ties, friendships and unity through bringing together every Chizami citizen, in-laws and well-wishers settled across the State and beyond.
For visitors it means a closer understanding of the people and culture of the village in particular and Chakhesang Nagas at large, and an opportunity to experience the food, songs, dances and customs of its people.

Chizami Day has been organized under the aegis of the Chizami Village Council and it will be celebrated after every 5 years.

Palace intrigues led to Seven Years Devastation and British Rule in Manipur, says Dy CM

IMPHAL, January 9: Supreme sacrifices made by the Kings and leaders of Manipur in the past must be remembered so that people can learn from them, stated deputy Chief

IMPHAL, January 9: Supreme sacrifices made by the Kings and leaders of Manipur in the past must be remembered so that people can learn from them, stated deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam.

The dy Chief Minister was speaking as the chief guest at the observance of the 181st death anniversary of Maharaj Gambhir Singh today.

Reminding the people that the unity, integrity and boundary of the state have stood the test of time, he said: `We must also learn how disunity among Kings in the past led to the loss of their territories.`

History must be read and understood with depth to gain wisdom from it, he said, adding that Mahatma Gandhi always maintained that the British didn`™t conquer India but in fact it was handed over to them due to the disunity among the Kings of India of the past.

This lesson from history must always be learnt and shared among us, he opined.

The deputy CM said the seven years devastation and the British rule in Manipur were a direct result of palace intrigues and lack of integrity. `Drawing from the past, we must now unite and maintain peace and harmony among the hills and valley communities of the State`, he said, further warning that those who try to disintegrate the State won`™t be spared.

State Archaeology, Department of Art & Culture organised the observance of the 181st death anniversary of Maharaja Gambhir Singh at his Samadhi at Langthabal (Canchipur), Imphal.

Heavy rainfall caused a poor turnout of participants but the function was held in full swing. Floral tributes were paid to the portrait of Maharaja Gambhir Singh and Nara Singh.

Later a guard of honour and a gun salute were given by personnel of the Manipur Rifles.

Langthabal MLA Karam Shyam speaking as the president of the function said the death anniversary of Maharaja Gambir Singh should be observed in a larger scale and politicians and VIPs of the state should made it a point to participate in such functions.

The function was also attended by PHED minister I Hemochandra, Art & Culture director K Sobita Devi and secretary (Art & Culture) K Radhakumar.

Chaoba led BJP team conducts spot inspection on NH-37

IMPHAL, January 8: A team led by State BJP chief conducted a spot inspection of the Imphal- Jiribam Road, NH-37, one of the lifelines of Manipur. The BJP chief

IMPHAL, January 8: A team led by State BJP chief conducted a spot inspection of the Imphal- Jiribam Road, NH-37, one of the lifelines of Manipur. The BJP chief told media-persons that BRO officials have informed him that the road repair work of NH-37 would be completed by March this year but his party is not convinced.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the manner in which BRO officials are repairing the road, he said there were no signs of the road repair going on in full swing as only a few labours were engaged. `We didn`™t notice any big machines being utilised for the road development either,` Chaoba said, adding that even if officials are stating that there is a shortage of funds for the road development, it has to be repaired.

He also informed that he would visit the national capital on January 15 to mount pressure on the Prime Minister and the concerned Union Minister to expedite the road development work by submitting a detailed report of the spot inspection.

The spot inspection team comprising of many State BJP leaders which inspected the condition of the road which is about 220 Kms long also interacted with many top officials of BRO. They found that the road was in prime condition from Imphal to Noney but the stretch from Rangkhung which led to Irang after crossing Awang Khul which has been black-topped earlier was in an abysmal condition as many cracks have appeared in its black-toppings.

However, they discovered that the road from Irang to Khongsang was also in prime condition. It further came to the notice of the team that apart from some wear and tear in some portions of the road from Khongsang to Nungba after crossing Rengpang, the road was relatively in a good condition. They discovered that many portions of the road from Nungba to Barak was in a deplorable condition but the condition of the road from Barak upto the stretch of the road barley a Km away from Makru has improved.

But both the sides of the road upto six Kms( 186-192 Kms) from the Makru Bridge were in a pitiable state, the team relayed.

The BJP chief also called upon the CO of the 83 RCC, BRO, RK Garg in Noney and dicussed the condition of the road.

During the discussion, the BJP leaders quoted the CO as saying that the stretch from Imphal to Santi Kunou whose condition has improved as compared to its condition during the last several years was being repaired by the 83 RCC.

They said that the CO informed them of setting a target of completing the road development by March this year.

Vehicles have now started using the newly constructed Barak Bridge which is an important connecting point in the NH-37. People have stopped plying on the earlier bridge about a month ago as its condition has deteriorated beyond repair.

The second-in-command of the 114 RCC of the BRO, Colonel L J Singha informed the inspection team that from 186 Kms to 192 Kms, the condition of the road was in an abysmal state. 114 RCC of the BRO is repairing the stretch of the road from Santi Khunou to Jiribam.

They also stated that Colonel Singha informed them that the 114 RCC cannot take up the road development work in full swing as there were no sufficient funds.

He also informed them of setting a target of completing the road development work of the stretch under his responsibility by March this year.

The BJP inspection team included former presidents of the State BJP such as Sh Shantikumar and M Bhorot, Vice-president I Mangiton, general secretary (administration) M Asnikumar, BJYM president O Malesh etc.