Nagaland: NCP and BJP official notification for merger expected by Wednesday

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, June 24 (NEPS): Former office bearers of NCP, Nagaland Unit led by its former president Imtilemba Sangtam, MLA, have appeared before the Speaker of the

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, June 24 (NEPS): Former office bearers of NCP, Nagaland Unit led by its former president Imtilemba Sangtam, MLA, have appeared before the Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Chotisuh Sazo at his Office Chamber on Tuesday to validate their resolution passed on June 16, 2014 for their formal “merger claim” with the BJP in Nagaland.

Photo caption: Nagaland Assembly Speaker (left) at his office examining the documents of three NCP MLAs’ merger claim with BJP, Nagaland. (Right) Former NCP office bearers with Imtilemba Sangtam, MLA, coming out after appearing before Speaker, Nagaland Assembly on June 24, 2014. Photo by Oken Jeet Sandham/NEPS

Sazo, who was out for a week, reached Kohima late last night and could not attend to the documents of the 3 Nagaland NCP MLAs’ merger claim with the BJP in Nagaland. He, however, called the Nagaland Unit of NCP’s former office bearers and their president to appear before him at his office on Tuesday and validate their signatures appended to the “resolution” passed by them on June 16, 2014 for their merger claim along with their three MLAs with the BJP in Nagaland.

At about 3 PM on Tuesday, the former NCP Nagaland Unit office bearers led by Imtilemba Sangtam, MLA, appeared before the Speaker at his office chamber and verified all their signatures appended to their resolution for merger claim with the BJP, Nagaland.

Talking to NEPS soon after appearing before the Speaker, Sangtam said the Speaker was now satisfied after crosschecking their credentials and expressed the hope that “Official Notification” for the “Merger” of three NCP MLAs along with their party supporters with the BJP, Nagaland could be issued by Wednesday.

Talking to NEPS at his office chamber on Tuesday, Speaker Sazo disclosed that he had called the NCP office bearers and their president to appear before him at his office as he wanted to crosscheck their credentials on their “Resolution” passed on June 16, 2014 of their formal “merger claim” with the BJP, Nagaland.

Sazo also disclosed that he received documents from the three NCP MLAs—Imtilemba Sangtam, Dr TM Lotha and Mmhonlumo Kikon—with their party resolutions and Nagaland BJP’s acceptance resolution of the merger on June 16, 2014. “But I sought some more additional documents from them to furnish whether there was any resolution of the NCP National Political Party deciding to merge their party with the BJP or any authorization to the State Unit of NCP to take any decision in this regard. At the same time, whether there was any resolution of the BJP National Political Party accepting the merger of the NCP with BJP” he said.

“Because this is Constitutional matters and I need to thoroughly examine by consulting with legal and constitutional experts before any official notification with regard to the merger claim is issued from my office,” Sazo explained. “At the same time, I also have to listen to the views and counter views expressed by the parties concerned to the present development following the three NCP MLAs’ merger claim with the BJP.”

Asked when he would give official notification to the three NCP MLAs’ merger claim with the BJP, Nagaland, the Speaker said, “May not be today.” Although he did not specify the date of issuing the official notification, it is believed that “Official Notification” for the three NCP MLAs’ merger claim with BJP, Nagaland may be issued by Wednesday.

Global Peace Makers : Binalakshmi Nepram Meets Former US President, Jimmy Carter & Kofi Annan in Oslo

New Delhi,23 June 2014: Noted woman civil rights activist,writer & humanitarian, founder of the Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network from Northeast Indian state of Manipur, Ms Binalakshmi Nepram attended the prestigious Oslo Forum which was successfully held last week on 18 and 19^th in Oslo, Norway.

Bina with Former US President Jimmy Carter

The Oslo Forum is one of the leading global network of conflict mediation practitioners. In the past, a number of high-level participants including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Gerry Adams, Mohammad Khatami, Martti Ahtisaari, Bono, and many other luminaries have participated in the Forum. The Oslo Forum have also hosted several Nobel Peace Prize laureates. Leading mediators representing governments and regional organisations as well as key United Nations actors charged with negotiating peace were also present.

Bina with Kofi Annan

In her visit to Oslo last week, Ms Nepram met with His Excellency Mr Kofi Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations and spoke with President Jimmy Carter who is the 39^th President of USA. Ms Nepram gave to both dignitaries the beautiful Leiroom woven by the women of Manipur which was received with great warmth by President Jimmy Carter. Ms Nepram also met and spoke with Mr Tim Sebestian, founder of BBC Hard Talk besides several dignitaries who are engaged in peace talks around the world

In a statement issued after her return from Oslo, Ms Nepram said, “My participation at Oslo Forum sincerely will go a long way in ushering much needed peace in 60 decades of violence that has engulfed India’s Northeast region. Citizens across Northeast region too aspire for peace,progress,development and hope this is achieved with collective,sincere,dedicated,united efforts of all. 45 million people of India’s Northeast deserve to live with dignity,without war and loss of lives. I went in peace and have returned with lessons for finding peace for us all. The journey for peace have begun and this time it will be led by women of the Northeast”.

Contact~Office of Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network & Northeast India Women Initiative for Peace

Email : cafi.communique@gmail.com

Phone: +91-11-46018541 Fax: +91-11-26166234
Web: www.womensurvivorsnetwork.org / www.cafi-online.org

Nagaland : Official Notification of 3 NCP MLAs’ merger expected by Monday

KOHIMA, June 22 (NEPS): “An Official Notification” of the 3 Nagaland NCP MLAs’ merger with the BJP in Nagaland is expected by Monday and the Nagaland Assembly Office has already received the

KOHIMA, June 22 (NEPS): “An Official Notification” of the 3 Nagaland NCP MLAs’ merger with the BJP in Nagaland is expected by Monday and the Nagaland Assembly Office has already received the additional documents from the three and also merger acceptance letter from the BJP National Party.

Talking to NEPS over phone from Guwahati, Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Chotisuh Sazo, who is reaching State capital tomorrow, confirmed that his office had received additional documents from the 3 MLAs, Imtilemba Sangtam, Dr TM Lotha and Mmhonlumo Kikon and also a letter from National BJP Office of accepting the three MLAs’ merger with their party (BJP) in Nagaland.

Sazo hinted that he would examine the documents tomorrow. “Hopefully official notification of their merger with the BJP will be issued after I examine the documents,” he stated.

It may be mentioned that 3 NCP MLAs, Imtilemba Sangtam, Dr TM Lotha and Mmhonlumo Kikon, along with their supporters formally merged with the BJP on June 16. NCP MLA Khumo refused to join the merge. But the Speaker, however, explained that he had been examining their documents by consulting constitutional experts before issuing official acceptance from his office, besides he sought certain information from the 3 MLAs to furnish whether there was any resolution of the NCP National Political Party deciding to merge their party with the BJP or any authorization to the State Unit of NCP to take any decision in this regard,” the Speaker pointed out. “At the same time, whether there was any resolution of the BJP National Political Party accepting the merger of the NCP with BJP.”

Dr TM Lotha, MLA and Parliamentary Secretary, said the documents submitted to Speaker’s Office on June 16, 2014 for formal merger of 3 NCP MLAs with their supporters with BJP was done by fulfilling all the laid down rules of the 10th Schedule of the Anti-Defection Law.

“Yet the Speaker has sought more documents, we have already submitted to his office,” a State BJP party functionary said and further hoped that, “the Speaker will issue official notification for the merger as we have fulfilled all the laid down rules of the 10^th Schedule of the Anti-Defection Law.”

European Manipuri Association(EMA) Annual Social Gathering and Convention 2014

Office of the European Manipuri Association(EMA) London, United Kingdom 13th EMA Annual Social Gathering and Convention 2014 has concluded at Kent, UK The Annual Social Gathering and Convention for the

European Manipuri Association Annual Social Gathering 2014, Kent, UK

Office of the

European Manipuri Association(EMA)

London, United Kingdom

13th EMA Annual Social Gathering and Convention 2014 has concluded at Kent, UK

The Annual Social Gathering and Convention for the year 2014 of the European Manipuri Association has been concluded on 15th June 2014 at Maidstone, Kent, United Kingdom. The gathering started on the evening of 13th June by members arriving at Coldblow farm, situated on top of the Kent Downs in the South East of England. The farm is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty with stunning views of local footpaths and bridleways. A perfect venue for the gathering, serving a taste of natural heritage of English countryside.

The two days gathering and convention was attended by members of the Manipuri Diaspora community and expatriates residing in different parts of Europe. A once in a year major event which is also an opportunity for the widespread community to meet each other and welcome new members to the organisation.

Traditional delicacies prepared with ingredients brought from home, travelling thousands of miles, infused the spirit of Manipuriness. Besides the delicacies, it was a fun filled event with friendly yet organised competitive sports, showcasing of entertainment skills such as magic show by one of EMA’s senior members, rendering melodious Manipuri tunes making everyone nostalgic. A group photo with women members wearing traditional dresses summed up the very existence of EMA upholding and preserving the varied tradition and culture of Manipur and providing its members a platform to give them a feeling of ‘Home away from home’. Also a rare opportunity for the children born and brought up here in Europe, teaching as well as reminding them of their rich traditional and cultural roots.

The main highlights of the event were the first ever introduction of ‘EMA Cup’ football match organised between members residing in London versus ‘Rest of Europe’. The team comprising of ‘Rest of Europe’ won and lifted the cup .Man of the match was awarded to Franco Mayanglambam. Apart from fun and cultural activities, an annual convention comprising of discussions on different topics related to socio-economic development of Manipur, promotion of Manipuri culture in Europe ,to promote EMA through more mini gatherings and networking creating more awareness than before about its existence in Europe in general and London in particular are some to mention.

The Convention has resolved to organise EMA Football Cup as an annual event from this year onward to promote sports and unity among the Diasporas living in Europe. Furthermore, there was a brainstorming session on how to showcase the cultural heritage and artifacts of Manipur in particular and North East India in general at the international level whilst utilising the limited resources available.

EMA Football Players 2014

The Executive Committee of EMA would like to thank its members specially those who had travelled far from different parts of Europe to attend the gathering. The moral and financial support provided by those members who couldn’t make themselves to the event is well appreciated. Special thanks to those who offered extra help to the executive committee in organising the event which has always been the reason for a successful EMA gathering.

With regards Dated 16th June 2014

Somorendro Khangembam

General Secretary

EMA, Europe

Out on bail accused in Pallel drug haul case continue to abscond

IMPHAL, June 20: Two of the five accused out on bail in the Pallel drug haul case continue to remain at large delaying court proceedings. The police have also failed

IMPHAL, June 20: Two of the five accused out on bail in the Pallel drug haul case continue to remain at large delaying court proceedings.

The police have also failed to book both even after the special court Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (ND&PS) had earlier issued arrest warrants against them for violating instructions to appear before the court.

Accused PRO Col Ajay Chowdhury coming out of the court room with another accused. Photo: IFP

While the three other accused out on bail namely PRO Col Ajay Chowdhury, RK Babloo, 25, son of RK Bijen of Top Khongnangkhong and Seikholen Haokip, 35 years, son of Telsing Ngamjang (TN) Haokip (former minister) of B Vengnom Tuibong appeared before the court today, the two absconding identified as Letminlal Letminlal Haokip alias Minlal Haokip, 25, son of (L) Kakai Haokip of New Checkon near Brighter School and Zangminthang Tuboi alias Minthang, 29, son of Dousei Tuboi of Bunglung Village failed to appear.

Meanwhile, judge S Imocha again issued warrant of arrest against the two and directed all five to appear on July 7.

On May 27, the special court Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (ND&PS) had issued arrest warrants against two for violating instructions to appear before the court after getting bail.

They (accused) were granted bail on May 19 and physically released from jail the next day along with the three other accused including PRO Col Ajay Chowdhury.

All five were released with the stern restriction against leaving the State and on the execution of PR bond of Rs One lakh each.

I will urge the Prime Minister to repeal AFSPA, says Sharmila

IMPHAL, May 27: “I will try to meet the Prime Minister of the country and highlight the problems faced by the people after the imposition of the AFSPA. I will

IMPHAL, May 27: “I will try to meet the Prime Minister of the country and highlight the problems faced by the people after the imposition of the AFSPA. I will also urge the Prime Minister to repeal the Act”. This was said by Irom Sharmila to the media, minutes before her departure to Delhi today morning at Imphal airport.

Irom Sharmila Chanu
Photo: IFP

She also added that to get the demand or to fulfill her struggle there is a need for unite support of the people.

She left this morning by an Indigo Flight as she will be produced at Patiala House Court, New Delhi on May 28. One doctor, a nurse, one police personnel from the jail and one IO is accompanying Sharmila to Delhi.

It may be recalled that Sharmila had missed similar summons twice with the state failing to send her citing shortages of fund. A case was registered against Sharmila for staging a protest fast at Jantar Mantar in 2006, demanding repeal of AFSPA.

The case registered against Sharmila by the police concerned is FIR No.222/06 under IPC section 309.

Incomplete PMGSY road continue to stir trouble in Ukhrul

UKHRUL, May 26: Gross irregularities in road construction from NH-150 to Khangkhui Khunou village under PMGSY in Ukhrul district continue to stir things up as work agency attempted to bluff

UKHRUL, May 26: Gross irregularities in road construction from NH-150 to Khangkhui Khunou village under PMGSY in Ukhrul district continue to stir things up as work agency attempted to bluff their way through its completion inspection with the connivance of the concerned department.

Supposed to provide a lifeline to connect five contiguous villages of Khangkhui Khunou, Khangkhui Khullen, Choithar, Nungshong Khunou and Nungshong Khullen in Veikhang area, the said road project was undertaken under PMGSY Package No. MNO 916/Phase IV since 2008. However, following arbitrary shifting of road alignment by the agency and concerned department, the public of the area raised serious objection and the work subsequently halted.

MSRRDA team inspecting PMGSY new road alignment along Choithar- Khangkhui route.
Photo: IFP

Alleging that the agency is working hand in glove with the concerned departmental staff to extract the whole amount without completing the work, the Veikhang Development Front (VDF) has today said that contractor SK Redeem has already drawn Rs. 1,64,21,883 out of tender amount Rs. 3,45,94,587.48 by forging a completion report whereas in reality, the work has been abandoned with barely 60 per cent complete since September 26, 2012.

VDF, President A Hongva further stated that an interim court order dated 8 May 2014 calling a halt to construction of the work is in force which is an extension of the previous one, hence the work has been left incomplete.

“Even then the agency has in the meantime, fraudulently drawn another Rs. 10 lakhs till May 2014 apart from proposing another 1.10 crore,” he alleged.

Decrying alleged irresponsibility of EE, MSRRDA Somi, Hongva said that Somi had maintained that BMS and PMGSY are separate projects and that the stretch from Choithar to Khangkhui Khunnou cannot be undertaken under PMGSY as it was earlier started under BMS and the two roads cannot merge but roads constructed under the two projects practically joined after passing Khangkhui Khullen.

Moreover, as per the scheme guidelines, there should be 12 retaining walls, 12 breasting walls, 1 slab culvert 1 bridge and 44 ring culverts, but so far only 2/3 ring culverts have been laid and that too in unrelated portions while stream areas are left plunging. Even the width of the road is only 4.5 mtrs, far below prescribed norms of 7 mtrs, Hongva rued.

Interstingly, an official team of MSRRDA led by SE Ninglum has today inspected the work site whose completion report was reportedly submitted by the agency in collusion with the concerned departmental officials recently.

Deplorable and unnavigable surface of the so called completed road greeted the official team as the team’s vehicle got stuck on the road swivelling its wheels in the muddy ground for nearly an hour.

More surprise awaited the team as they proceeded since the road ended abruptly toward reaching the Chihui river, compelling them to take the old britisher road.

Rich Shirui forests` biodiversity at stake

New Shirui-Mapum road sows seeds of destruction on Ukhrul`s richest rainforest By R Lester Makang UKHRUL, April 29: In an era where density of highways, roads and other such communication

New Shirui-Mapum road sows seeds of destruction on Ukhrul`s richest rainforest

By R Lester Makang

UKHRUL, April 29: In an era where density of highways, roads and other such communication links is considered an important benchmark of development everywhere, we are witnessing an upward trend in building or expanding highways and roads across towns, villages and rural interiors of Manipur. Correspondingly, the impact that this surge in road building has on the environment is also growing at an alarming rate and in cases where roads cut through dense forest regions, it could directly cause unplanned damages to the areas ` ecology beyond redemption.

A case in point is the fast degradation of the previously rich Shirui hills which is home to rich and unique biodiversity of the state including the famous Shirui Lily, Shirui tiger and various flora and fauna. The newly built inter village road spreading 30 kms across the Shirui Kashong`s wilderness connecting Shirui village and Mapum village in northern Ukhrul is directly blamed for the current large scale deforestation in the area.

Constructed in the year 2006-2007 under PMGSY, the IV road cuts through the heart of the Shirui`s deep rainforest causing immesurable damages rendering a vast portions of the forest open, dry and hotter. “The first and biggest blunder committed in destruction of the forest and wildlife in the area has been the opening of the IV road which then opens up Pandora` s box giving easy access for commercial activities like timber trading etc.” observed L Willington, headman of Shirui Aze.

“But this was permitted long ago as a goodwill gesture on our part and also considering the hardships of our neighbouring village,” he maintained.

Another factor that hinders a consensual approach to checking deforestation is the distribution of land ownership practised among the inhabitants of Shirui village.

“Ninety per cent of land spanning the deep forest belongs private owners, while public lands comprises only 10 per cent” Willington said while adding that which is why the Village Authority has little control over those privately owned lands where trees are felled with the consent of the owner.

The difficulty then lies in the fact that the current rampant deforestation across the Shirui hills are basically due to subsistence related activities. “Unless means of subsistence is secured for each private owner, we cannot stop them. The state government must adopt a special policy to preserve the forest and plan out an alternative means for the poor villagers who solely depend on the natural resources for their economic activities before it is too late” pleaded a village elder on condition of anonymity.

Significantly, the current water crisis in Ukhrul town is directly attributed to unplanned deforestation in Shirui hills which remain the sole water source for the township. Four rivers originating from the thick Shirui hills namely, Yangkong river and Maret kongrei which flow down into Loktak lake in Manipur and Shangkong and Razik kong flowing into Myanmar territory have severely depleted in recent years. “These Water sources have gone down by nearly 50 per cent in volume after construction of the said road,” Willngton asserted.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/04/rich-shirui-forests-biodiversity-at-stake/

Assam – Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped

Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped By Oken Jeet Sandham One of the most humiliating chapters in the history of Nagaland since Statehood would be, perhaps, its inability to

Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped

By Oken Jeet Sandham

One of the most humiliating chapters in the history of Nagaland since Statehood would be, perhaps, its inability to conduct elections on its own soil at Ladaigrah under Longlen District, bordering Assam, due to Assam Police’s deliberate threat and refusal to vacate a Nagaland school building wherein the polling was supposed to take place.

Everyone including the media in Nagaland were stunned when they saw the news along with a picture showing the Assam Police blocking the road preventing Nagaland polling officials from proceeding toward Ladaigarh to conduct polls for the Ladaigarh Polling Station No. 1 under 49 Tamlu A/C. Later in the day, it was declared that the polling at Ladaigarh could not be conducted due to Assam Police’s blocking of road leading to Ladaigarh and thus it (polling) had been adjourned.

In the past also, the Assam police did the same thing. But the previous elections, somehow a makeshift polling station was arranged nearby and allowed the voters to exercise their franchise. But this time, the situation was altogether different that not only murdering the rights of the voters to exercise their franchise but also not allowing the Nagaland polling officials from proceeding towards their polling station at Ladaigarh. But the saddest part was the state government’s inability to make any arrangement for the voters to exercise their franchise. If the Assam police refused Nagaland polling officials from proceeding to Ladaigarh, the Nagaland government could have airlifted those polling officials to conduct the polls there. But they did not.

It is unfortunate that when the state of Nagaland was created in the early 60s, the drawing of the new state boundary was not properly carried out. And once the new state was carved out from the existing state, the boundary had to be drawn and the necessary border machineries should be put into place. These unresolved border issues have really taken quite a toll on the lives of people on both sides.

It is only understandable that such border skirmishes would take place from time to time but they should not be misinterpreted as threatening to the aged old relationship between the two neighboring people. The people of the two states should not, at any cost, allow this issue lingering.

Most of the incidents including the Ladaigrah episode that have been taking place in the Assam-Nagaland border areas were something to do with longstanding unresolved inter-state border issues. Many issues were to do with paddy fields, farmlands, forests, etc. as per the past records. There were allegations from Nagaland border side that some people from across the border descended on their ancestral paddy fields, farmlands and even forcibly grabbed their lands with the help of Assam armed police as well as neutral forces. On the other side, there were also allegations that the Nagas from across the border encroached Assam’s lands or killed wild animals. And sometimes, clashes took place on either side while stepping into either side. Sometimes, such issues became hot debates even during assembly sessions of both the states. Yet, they were also resolved through series of dialogues at various levels.

Regrettably, large numbers of non-locals have been systematically occupying the long stretch of Assam border over the years and their numbers keep increasing leaps and bounds. And the people of Assam have little knowledge of what these non-locals have been doing on the state’s border areas.

To ease the border problem between the two states, the Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement as early as 1972 was made. This Agreement was meant to lessen border tension, while trying to find long lasting solution to the border issue.

The problem is this Interim Border Agreement was not implemented in toto. Rather it became a tool for the Assam government to strengthen their state forces along the border, while Nagaland relegated to a helpless position as they had to oblige to the terms of the agreement. According to information, Assam has 44 Assam armed police posts set up all along the Assam-Nagaland border in violation of the Interim Agreement; whereas there is reportedly 1 Nagaland armed police post all along the border. In other words, Nagaland was sincere if not over-sincere.

As per the Agreement, the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) should be placed under the neutral forces. Interestingly, such forces are placed again under the command of an IG of Assam police. And also Nagaland government temporarily allowed the Assam forest department for the management of the border reserved forests in the DAB. But due to the mismanagement by the Assam forest department, people from both sides started settling in the disputed reserved forest areas. Subsequently both the Assam and Nagaland governments had given recognition to those settlers.

Today, the problem is more complicated because the people living in the border areas of Assam are mostly non-locals but the Nagaland side becomes helpless as they do not know to whom they will talk. We have seen that some non-locals started talking the language of locals to restore aged old relationship between the Nagas and the Assamese. This interesting development might have confused some leaders in Nagaland. We started seeing some statements made by some responsible Naga Ministers saying they would not talk to “Adivasis” for resolving Assam-Nagaland border raw. But they failed to realize that by uttering this way, you would be paying attention to them instead of focusing on the right persons. It looks like you have been asked to talk to these people to resolve border raw with Assam. Let us be wiser and focus on the real issue plaguing both the states.

This so-called Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement 1972 is a blunder and it has become a bond of contention between the people of the two neighboring states. The first step to find solution to the chronic border issue is this “Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement” should be scrapped.

At the same time, both the states should immediately engage in serious business to frame new Border Agreement. Only then should they constitute an Assam-Nagaland Border Committee wherein persons with high social standing from both the states should be appointed as Members for a period of 5 years and their term can be extended on periodic basis. Their main job is to check the border irregularities and also examine the process of implementation of the Agreement.

It is still afresh in our memories about the infamous interstate clashes at Merapani in 1985 over border issue. No one thought the relationship would return as good as before. But the aged old relationship had fast returned. Because both sides can’t afford remaining un-neighborly as they will remain as neighbors till this beautiful God given earth exists.

The construction of “Foothill Road” on Nagaland border is very important for the development of the state. But this should not be misinterpreted as solution to the Assam-Nagaland border issue. The failure to find solution to the Assam-Nagaland border issue is not due to not constructing “Foothill Road.” Nevertheless, you can construct hundreds of new roads. It is your prerogative. But the Assam-Nagaland border raw can only be resolved provided both parties are sincere.

Gratitude – For a Blooming Ema keithel and Spiritual home of Polo event

Dear Editor , Words of Gratitude: For a Blooming Ema keithel and a Blooming spiritual home of polo Blooming Manipur, an initiative inspired by Britain in Bloom, has been making

Dear Editor ,

Words of Gratitude:
For a Blooming Ema keithel and a Blooming spiritual home of polo
Blooming Manipur, an initiative inspired by Britain in Bloom, has been making efforts to encouraged and transformed the land we called our home with some loving and caring gardening acts. We are glad to have had the opportunity in maintaining a community garden at Ema keithel by planting flowers in hanging baskets and indigenous leafy Urum trees at the historic market and trying to transformed the historic market into a blooming pride. We continually seek to encouraged and promote a wider participation in this community gardening initiative especially from the hardworking Ema and ebens and instilled a sense of ownership and transformed it into a Blooming Keithel.

With the hope of encouraging a wider public participation and understanding this historic market, We alongwith the kind activist of Kangla facebook group have organised the small event of community gardening at Ema Keithel and at Heingang Hill /ching , on the 25th o april 2014 .

We are glad that Lady Belinda Morse , one of our strong supporter of Blooming Manipur and author of the book , Calamity and courage – Queen of the Raj ; Sir Jeremy Morse , OBE , former chancellor of Bristol university and director of Bank of England ; Mr RK Nimai , Commisioner , dept of arts and culture , Govt of Manipur ; Mr Nimai Sharma , Chairperson of Imphal Municipal council have attended the day’s event and interacted with the womenfolk and gardening activists.
The team have also planted a few Chingthrao/bauhinia saplings at Heingang hills with the hope of transforming this beautiful and sacred place as the Blooming spiritual home of polo/sagol kangjei. This we believe would allow Heingang hill to occupy a unique place in the world of Polo and also bring about a much needed awareness of the sacred value of this beautiful hillock.
We hope this small events would generate and promote ‘caring and kind’ acts to the land we called our home , which could inspire to execute visible acts of care like gardening in our public spaces and places and transform our land into a Blooming pride and instill that vital sense of belongingness to our people especially the children .

We are grateful to the members of our governmental authorities , the women of the keithel , kind individuals of Heingang and of Heingang Polo Sanctuary and everyone who have participated and extended their help in making a memorable event.

Our sincere words of gratitude especially to the kind journalist and media who have covered the event and the caring activities extensively and shared with their readers and viewers. This we believe would be of immense help in encouraging and generating interest among our kind and caring people to undertake initiatives based on ‘loving where we live’ concepts and lay foundations for a transformed and Blooming land of ours.

We sincerely believe this collective effort with a supportive journalism community that can share and encouraged our people with ‘transforming thoughts and acts’ can bring the changes Manipur needs so much.

Bish Elangbam
Blooming Manipur
Loving where we live

Jhum cultivation a threat to Global Warming

By Kamboi KANGPOKPI, April 23: In what is becoming an annual event, increasingly frequent and more intense, fires are sweeping through the forest particularly in the hill districts of the

By Kamboi

KANGPOKPI, April 23: In what is becoming an annual event, increasingly frequent and more intense, fires are sweeping through the forest particularly in the hill districts of the state during the initial stage of jhum cultivation.

Jhum cultivation is in fact an annual practice by the hill people mainly for their livelihood keeping aside the dangerous outcome of the practice.

During the initial stage of the jhum cultivation, a vast area of the forest is burnt down for agriculture and plantation of varieties of crops apart from other purposes by the poor farmers.

Burning of forests is of concern for many reasons, the most often cited being loss of habitat for rare plants and animals and an increase in global carbon dioxide (CO2) leading to “Global Warming” which the poor farmers have little knowledge and awareness of.

The poor farmers who survive with the help of jhum cultivation give much more importance to their annual profession/practice rather than the dangerous outcome of their profession (burning forest for jhum cultivation).

The burning of the forest mainly for jhum cultivation definitely affects the ecosystems because it is part of the global ecosystem.

In many cases this annual practice by the poor farmers add to the deforestation process and it takes many more years for the forest to grow back again.

The air around the entire district of Sadar Hills Senapati in Manipur has been drastically polluted compared to the past and the mercury level continues to go higher.

Global warming, if it continues and does not turn back, will cause huge changes in the ecosystems. But unfortunately no one knows for sure how warm it will get and how fast it will get there so lots of people particularly the poor farmers still argue over whether there really is global warming.

One local jhum cultivator innocently claims, “What I have done is the most suitable and sustainable job for the survival of my family. I don`t think my job is a threat to anything and I don`t believed in Global Warming,” terming it as a ploy to end the main source of livelihood of the poor farmers ie Jhuming.

Another jhum cultivator asserted that there is no other options for us rather than adopting to this occupation to sustain our livelihood because other occupation needs high amount of capital to begin with which we are unaffordable for us(the poor farmers/cultivators).

In the meantime, there is daily report of water scarcity both in the valley as well as in all the hill districts of the state which is probably the most interesting outcome among many others of the cutting down of trees and burning of forest mainly for jhum cultivation by the poor farmers which they (the poor farmers) interestingly have no knowledge about.

All the major rivers in the state have dried up resulting in tremendous scarcity of water which has directly affected the general public and compelled the public health engineering department to cut down on supply of potable water.

The continuous rising of mercury with the temperature hovering around 35.6 degrees celsius on April 21, recorded as the hottest day in the state in 15 years is the direct effect of global warming which is another significant account of jhum cultivation.

Now the big question is can this annual practice of the poor farmers particularly in the urban and hilly region of the state and the country be stopped?

The suitable answer to this rests with us. It is this generation at the eleventh hour who have the knowledge and ability to act. If we leave it to the next generation it will simply be too late and the forest won`t be there to save and the global warming to prevent.

There are many different groups that will have to work together to achieve an end to this annual practice while considering the livelihood of the poor farmers too- environmentalists, conservationists, government as well as those who actually work in the forest-the poor farmers.

It is the vital role of the governments of initiate suitable measures in bringing out the most suitable solution which is the need of the hour.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/04/jhum-cultivation-a-threat-to-global-warming/

RT: China tells US not to meddle in Hong Kong’s internal affairs

China tells US not to meddle in Hong Kong’s internal affairs China has warned the United States against meddling in Hong Kong’s internal affairs after Vice President Joe Biden met

China tells US not to meddle in Hong Kong’s internal affairs

China has warned the United States against meddling in Hong Kong’s internal affairs after Vice President Joe Biden met with two former Hong Kong legislators who expressed concern that Beijing is tightening control over the territory.

Biden met with Anson Chan, former chief secretary and founder of pro-democracy group Hong Kong 2020, and Martin Lee – founder of Hong Kong’s opposition Democratic Party – at the White House on Friday.

PHOTO: The Vice President drops by a meeting with Hong Kong pro-democracy advocates Martin Lee and Anson Chan.
Photo: RT.com

Vice President Biden underscored Washington’s “long-standing support for democracy in Hong Kong and for the city’s high degree of autonomy under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework,” the White House said in a statement.

In response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that it “firmly opposes any countries meddling in the city’s internal affairs in any way,” South China Morning Post quoted.

“Hong Kong affairs are China’s internal affairs,” said a spokesperson for the Office of the Commissioner of the Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong.

The official added that Hong Kong is currently going through a sensitive political reform period.

“[We] would hope the US would be cautious of their words and actions regarding Hong Kong affairs and not let Hong Kong issues impede Sino-American relations,” he noted.

Commenting on the activists’ concerns over press freedom and other core values in Hong Kong, the spokesperson said that “Over the past 17 years since Hong Kong’s return, the region has seen the successful implementation of the ‘one country, two systems’ framework, which contributed to Hong Kong’s great socioeconomic and democratic development.”

“As a result, the people in Hong Kong are enjoying unprecedented democratic rights and freedom, which has won international acclaim,” the official added, as quoted by Xinhua news agency.

Read Full Story: http://rt.com/news/china-us-biden-interfere-897/

LS Election Manipur: Yes or No to NOTA, what voters are saying?

LS Election Manipur: Yes or no to NOTA, what voters are saying? Democracy is all about choices and election in majoritarian electoral system is a game of numbers. For the

Electronic Voting Machine (Credit: Election Commission of India)

LS Election Manipur: Yes or no to NOTA, what voters are saying?

Democracy is all about choices and election in majoritarian electoral system is a game of numbers. For the first time in India’s more than 6-decade-long history of democracy, voters have been empowered with None Of The Above (NOTA) option or popularly known as the right to reject candidates. Unlike previous polls in Manipur, the runup 16^th Lok Sabha election is fused with a strange air of NOTA, frustration of voters and their anger against the legislators, who failed keep pre-poll promises.

Following a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court of India ordered to apply NOTA button on voting machines on 27^th September, 2013. The discussion for NOTA is doing the round and youths from the state have dared even to initiate a campaign- “Vote-for-NOTA-in-Manipur-Kangleipak” (NOTACACom). The humming buzz evidently signals that a chunk of voters largely youths are likely to use NOTA option to show their rejection of contestants for the election scheduled to be held on 17^th April, 2014.

When asked about his view, Laiphrakpam Herojit (25) of Hingthang, Imphal West, who is going to vote for the first time opines, “the right to reject and privacy is what the voters needs. NOTA will be very helpful.”

In a recent interview conducted by Kanglaonline, voters especially youngsters hail the verdict of the apex court and said that it is a boon to the citizens of India.

While stating that NOTA has no sense till now and has no power, Goutam Ningombam, UGC-JRF, PhD Scholar, Department of Chemistry, Manipur University said, “I think we should vote for the one we trust and waste no votes. If want a change, we should exercise our right instead of bargaining the rate of vote. If the elected person fails to maintain our aspirations, we can simply stop cooperating in future.”

The crux is that decision of the voters is what that will shape the future. The unity and honesty of the citizens should be built instead of pressing NOTA. When the voters create positive perspectives things will turn out to be positive, the 29-year-old research scholar from Moirang, Bishnupur district added.

Emphasizing that exercising franchise is the right and duty of every eligible citizen of India, Pramod Ningombam (35), senior journalist said it is one way to make choices about how we want our life to be. Though we understand the candidates to be ‘devils’ in different forms, we have no choice but to choose the ‘lesser devil’.

He also suggests that we all should go for the candidate with the lesser devil in himself/herself.

Hrishikesh Angomcha (28), Sub-Editor, Hueiyen Lanpao (English Edition) also believes that the option is good, but not purposeful. “The candidates will be elected based on the highest number of votes secured no matter how many voted for NOTA.”

Dr. K Chandra (identity changed on condition of anonymity) said that since we are the ones, who made politicians corrupt, the only option to make them uncorrupt is NOTA because if elected, they will become corrupt again.

“Many responsible citizens will be opting for NOTA this time because there is none who deserves. The past decades speak it and all of a sudden, we can’t find an honest and responsible candidate just a few days ahead of elections. Before claiming as honest to the people, one needs to be honest to oneself first,” the 32-year old young AIMS medical post graduate said.

Salam Herojit (34) of Nambol, Bishnupur district welcomes the provision and at the same time he appeals the Election Commission of India and NGOs to create awareness about the power and adverse effect of this button across the country.

“It won’t be exaggerating to say that an effective use of NOTA to the extend that it creates an impact on Indian election is a far-fetch dream,” Herojit said.

Ukraine on the Brink of Civil War – Yanukovich, Ukraine’s Ousted President

With the intensification of protests at the eastern Ukraine by Russian speaking Ukranian citizens, specially in the Donesk region, & subsequent crackdown by self appointed government at Kiev, Ukraine is

Excerpts from Russia Today (RT.com) report:

“Blood was spilt today,” Yankovich told journalists referring to the events in the eastern city of Slavyansk. “Now our country finds itself in a totally new situation – with one foot in the door of a civil war. The Kiev junta has issued a criminal order to use armed forces and the army against the protesters.”

In the event of a mass crackdown on protesters and use of force, the “new rulers” of Ukraine will carry full responsibility, the ousted President said, adding that the people of Ukraine will never accept “dictatorship” and “especially nationalists’ dictate.”

He has urged the country’s security forces not to obey “unlawful orders” and restrain from shooting at “people of Ukraine”.

Ukraine is now “inexorably” heading towards bankruptcy and chaos, Yanukovich also warned in his speech. Holding a referendum is the only one way to avoid splitting Ukraine, the coup-deposed leader stressed.

People watch arned men near a regional police building seized by armed separatists in Slavyansk, Ukraine on April 13, 2014 (AFP Photo / Anatoly Stepanov) Souce: rt.com

Read Full Story: http://rt.com/news/yanukovich-ukraine-war-civil-292/

MH370 ‘hijacked and in Afghanistan’: Mirror UK Reports

Unknown terrorists are said to have taken control of the missing plane MH370 and forced it to land near Kandahar The extraordinary report attributed the source of the revelation to

Unknown terrorists are said to have taken control of the missing plane MH370 and forced it to land near Kandahar

The extraordinary report attributed the source of the revelation to a Russian intelligence source, appeared in the Moskovsky Komsomolets newspaper.

The source told the paper: “Flight MH370 Malaysia Airlines missing on March 8 with 239 passengers was hijacked.

“Pilots are not guilty; the plane was hijacked by unknown terrorists.

“We know that the name of the terrorist who gave instructions to pilots is “Hitch.”

“The plane is in Afghanistan not far from Kandahar near the border with Pakistan.”

FOR LIVE COVERAGE OF THE SEARCH FOR FLIGHT MH370, CLICK HERE.

According to The Daily Star, Moskovsky Komsomolets also claims the passengers have been divided into seven groups and are living in mud huts with almost no food.

Twenty Asian passengers were said to have been smuggled into a bunker in Pakistan.

Photo: Mirror UK

The unconfirmed report suggested that the terrorists are possibly seeking to bargain with either America or China .

However the news is yet to be confirmed by authorities either in Malaysia or China.

Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappeared soon after taking off on March 8 from Kuala Lumpur bound for Beijing.

It had 227 passengers and 12 crew on board, triggering a multinational search that is now focused on the Indian Ocean.

On Friday, the Prime Minister of Australia, Tony Abbott, has said he was “very confident” that signals picked up by search teams in the Indian Ocean were from missing Flight MH370′s black box.

During a visit to Beijing, China, he told the the Australian Broadcasting Corporation: “We have very much narrowed down the search area and we are very confident the signals are from the black box.”

A fifth signal was detected by search crews on Friday.

The signals will eventually allow them to determine an exact resting place for the downed Boeing 777.

They will then send down a submersible vehicle to plumb the depths of the ocean for the black box.

The ‘pings’ emitted by Flight MH370′s black box are soon expected to fade, more than a month after the plane, which was carrying 227 passengers and 12 crew, disappeared on March 8.

Source: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/mh370-hijacked-afghanistan-russian-intelligence-3407468#ixzz2yllezOZY

Application Invited for PhD with Fellowship at UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research

Join the frontier institute in experimental condensed matter physics and be a leading researcher with international foot print UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research (An Autonomous Institute under University Grants Commission,

Join the frontier institute in experimental condensed matter physics
and be a leading researcher with international foot print

UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research

(An Autonomous Institute under University Grants Commission, New Delhi)

University Campus, Khandwa Road, Indore-452001

Phone 0731-2463913/2762267 Web-site: www.csr.res.in

Ours is a research institute having state of the art facilities to carry out frontline research in experimental condensed matter physics. The institute is running Ph.D. program in Physics for more than 20 years and the pass out Ph.D. students of this institute are well placed in national and international laboratories of repute. For entry to this Ph.D. program an entrance test is organized on 16^th of June 2014 for post graduate students with minimum 55% marks in any branch of Physics. Due consideration will be given for reservation policy as per Governmental norms. Those appearing in final semester can also apply. The successful candidates in this test will be personally interviewed. All the selected candidates will be offered a research fellowship as per UGC rules and after the successful completion of course work will be eligible for registering for the Ph.D. degree of the Devi Ahilya University, Indore.

Students with qualified CSIR/UGC/NET, JEST certificate need not apply for this test and can appear in the interview directly, they may be called for interview in the month of May & June.

Application giving name, address, e-mail and academic and other qualifications with subject and percentage of marks etc. along with recent passport size photograph should be sent to administrative officer-I. The envelope containing the application should clearly mention “Application for research student”.

For further details of the various facilities available and placement of past students etc. and how to submit application, please visit our website: www.csr.res.in

Note: Last date for receipt of application: 1 May 2014.

Sleeper class to and fro railway fare will be paid to the candidates called for interview.

CENTRE-DIRECTOR

Attracting The Tourist

Leader Writer: Wangkheimayum Bhupendra Singh A few days back, the Governor Vinod Kumar Duggal had formally opened a two day long eco-tourism conclave in the state capital. The Governor was

Leader Writer: Wangkheimayum Bhupendra Singh

A few days back, the Governor Vinod Kumar Duggal had formally opened a two day long eco-tourism conclave in the state capital. The Governor was accompanied by a host of personalities – authority on the subject – who had come from all over the country to help the state market itself as a tourist destination before the world and to become a tourist friendly destination. The conclave was opened on an ambitious note, as the Governor himself put it, it is hoped that the topics and issues discussed during the Conclave would help the state become better equipped to handle the difficulties and hardships faced in the efforts to promote the kind of tourism, which is environment friendly, sustainable and preserve the natural serenity and beauty of a place like Manipur. Although the conclave was designed to be specifically focused on eco-tourism, the delegates nevertheless touch on diverse aspects to develop tourism.

It is apparent that the State is gearing up to harness the potential of tourism in the state to give development a boost. And with the Governor’s announcement, the bugle has been sounded and now it is up to the government and the people that the efforts become fruitful and do not meet an abrupt end. Much has been said and a lot more written about the state’s potential in tourism and how much we can gain by endorsing tourism. For all the potential that the state has in tourism, it is also important to note that branding of a product is as important as what is inside the product. The beauty of the state lies not only in its scenic beauty, but is also augmented by the myriad of tribes and others inhabiting together in the hills and the plains with its unique diversity. Development of infrastructures alone cannot attract tourists into the state. The cultures, traditions of the many communities, the rustic lifestyle all pull in to make Manipur the land that it is. And this is how the state needs to be branded.

In his speech during the opening of the conclave, the Governor had also highlighted that the State Tourism Department is working in a sustained and systematic manner for harnessing the tourism potential of Manipur. If the government is really keen in developing tourism in the state, then there are certain things that need to be looked at. The state is confronted with several issues as of now, with many of them recognised as detriments to not only tourism but also to any form of development. However, the one issue that has caused much annoyance in the state and which everyone has not shied away from blaming is the law and order situation. Almost every problem confronting the state is either law and order problem or is indirectly linked to it. Once the government can prove before the world that the law and order situation in the state has improved considerably, tourist inflow would eventually grow. And once the issue of portraying a peaceful Manipur is accomplished, the government can add to it by improving accessibility to the state by improving communication and transportation avenues in the state. However, all of these need participation of the local populace. This is for both the government and people to understand that nothing is possible without active participation of the people.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/04/attracting-the-tourist/

Nemesis for diabolic misdeeds of Congress

Nemesis for diabolic misdeeds of Congress With or without mandate the Congress has ruled the nation by default for quite a long time. Because of the high integrity and honestly

Nemesis for diabolic misdeeds of Congress

With or without mandate the Congress has ruled the nation by default for quite a long time. Because of the high integrity and honestly inherited from the Congress leaders of pre-independence era the present Congress leaders were so elated that they had started working as if they were the megalomaniacs. They had overlooked the interest for common people and started working for their own interest. Wittingly or unwittingly they had committed a series of high profile scams viz CWG, 2G-Spectrum, Coalgate, Railgate etc. Even the CBI had been coded to function as a congress bureau of investigation. Ultimately the Supreme Court had to interfere and said “CBI is the caged parrot” and given directives for setting it free. Also in the recent past the hypocrisy of discredited congress leadership has been graphically exposed by print and electronic media. At the same time because of independent free press unwanted price rise, high corruption, poor governance, compromise at border issue has come to the public domain just before the so called semi-finale of 2014- PE (parliamentary election). Then as a natural consequence congress has been defeated completely in the Assembly election of Delhi, Rajashthan, Madhyapradesh and Satishgard. This is nothing but the nemesis for the diabolic misdeeds of congress led UPA Govt.

Yesterday the finale 2014-PE has been started. The writings on the walls are crystal clear that the congress led UPA govt has no probability to come back after 16th May 2014. Now facing its unavoidable evil fortune congress is rather confused and nervous. As per Indian psephologists congress is a sinking boat today. Many senior sitting MPs like Mr. P. Chidambaram, Mr. Manish Tiwary, Mr. Jitendra Malik etc have refused to contest. Many other leaders like Mr. Bhagirath Prasad, Mr. Rao Inderjeet etc have deserted congress and are contesting on BJP tickets. Also there are congress candidate like Mr. Ramesh Chand Tomar (Goutam Budh Nagar constituency,UP) who has deserted congress after passing the scrutiny and has joined BJP. Now the unexpressed reality is that many senior leaders no longer have faith in Rahul Gandhi’s leadership. General Secretary Janardan Dwivedi has advocated for Mrs Priyanka Gandhi Badhra to take the reign of INC. But the high command has kept his proposal in deep freeze saying it is good but the timing is wrong. Mr. Rahul’s inconsistency is also one of the main factors of decaying the party. With respect to the Adarsh scam Rahul had said that tented leaders including Mr. Ashok Chavan would not be excused. However corrupted leaders like Mr. Ashok Chavan, Mr. Pawan Kumar Bansal etc have been given the party tickets. In addition to the inconsistency he keeps on changing his stand on many important national issues. It seems he is utterly confused.

Congress is anti-people in Manipur. Having annexed Manipur under duress Congress has always been treating Manipur as a colony. The first Congress PM Jawaharlal Nehru had given the Kabo Valley to Myanmar (Then Burma) bypassing the Manipur leaders. With the knowledge of the congress high command, Local Congress leaders viz Mr.Rishang Keishing, Mr.Gaikhangam, Mr. Ngajokpa and many other leaders had unsuccessfully tried to disintegrate Manipur. During the present congress regime a large portion of Manipur has been lost to Myanmar. World famous record of two month old economic blockade took place in Manipur. Jungle Raj is prevailing in Manipur without any development programs. State as well as Central govts have refused to recognize Irom Sharmila who is one fast-unto-death to get the inhuman AFSPA-58 removed. However CM O.Ibobi had secretly tried to coax the Iron Lady to give up the fast and join the Congress to fight politically to get the act repealed from Manipur. The Iron Lady had taken a good decision by rejecting the CM’s sinister offer. Mr. O.Ibobi, with a very low integrity and honesty, has made a hollow claim that even if a super power tries to disintegrate Manipur it would not be possible. He is better to come out of his well and realize how the Telengana State had been created in spite of the huge protest spearheaded by the then CM Kiran Kumar Reddy in tandem with other political leaders and lakhs of Telugu population. Does our CM have the guts to protest against his decision of his so-called high command (Madam Soniaji)? No, he can’t. He is simply howling to get the vote for the incompetent Congress candidates who have apologized to their respective voters for they could not implement pro-people schemes. The same lethargic inactive candidates have begged the public to elect them again so that they would be able to accomplish the good job they could not do earlier. They have admitted themselves to be failure representatives of the people. So why should we give them another chance? Under the prevailing political scenario if we all vote for BJP candidates it will surely enhance the prospect of modeling a resurgent Manipur. Congress MLA O. Landhoni has also appealed not to vote for candidates of potentially unviable political parties. At present Congress is a sinking boat. The so-called Third Front has already been decimated before being realized and the AAP has imploded due to their internal problems. And unfortunately AAP founder leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Yogendra Yadav have been attacked every now and then in full public view. Unfortunately today also after being garlanded Mr. Kejriwal has been slapped by an auto driver in south Delhi. Hence keeping in view the nationwide popular BJP wave, we all should vote for BJP candidate Prof. Gangumei Kamei on 09.04.14 & for Dr. R.K. Ranjan on 17.04.14 respectively.

Sumatibala Ningthoujam
Email: sumatibalan@yahoo.com

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/04/nemesis-for-diabolic-misdeeds-of-congress/

Peace Volunteers trained to mitigate conflict in India’s Northeast

Peace Volunteers trained to mitigate conflict in India’s Northeast Delhi/Imphal, 5 April 2014: Northeast India comprises the contiguous Seven Sister States—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur,Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and a brother Sikkim. The region has been facing the onslaught of multiple armed conflicts for

Peace Volunteers trained to mitigate conflict in India’s Northeast

Peace Volunteers trained to mitigate conflict in India’s Northeast

Delhi/Imphal, 5 April 2014: Northeast India comprises the contiguous Seven Sister States—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur,Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and a brother Sikkim. The region has been facing the onslaught of multiple armed conflicts for many decades. The issues aggravated after the introduction of the Armed Forces Special Power Act. More than 50,000 lives have been lost in the violence. The total population of North Eastern Region of India is 38,857,769, of which 19.1% are living below the poverty line. North East India deals with complex social political issues such as struggle over natural resources, ethnic conflicts, illegal migration, displacement and social exclusion. In Assam, there have been 14 bomb blasts since January to March, this year and 30 cases of bomb blasts between January and March 23 in Manipur. The conflict in Manipur turns 300 women into widows annually.

On 25-26 March 2014, Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network and North East India Women Initiative for Peace in partnership with Control Arms Foundation of India (CAFI) successfully organized an event ‘Peace Volunteers Training on Women, Peace & Security, Human Rights, Leadership, Conflict Resolution and Peace Building in Northeast India’, in Manipur.

The training workshop commenced with an introductory speech by Ms Binalakshmi Nepram Founder, Manipur Women Gun Survivor Network, welcoming all the resource persons and ‘Peace Volunteers’ at the event. She opened the session by giving an overview of the disturbing situation and status of women in Northeast India, against the background of the region’s prolonged inter and intra-state conflicts and patriarchal nature. She described how women are the victims of rape, abduction, child marriages, female infanticide, acid attacks, dowry-related murders, honor killing and enslavement. The focus of her speech was on ‘Women, Peace and Security in Northeast India’ and the inclusion of women in peace negotiation processes. She mentioned that Nepal is the first and only South Asian country to adopt the National Action Plan on Resolution 1325 and 1820, as a result of which the application of Security Council Resolution 1325 – which addresses the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women. She furthermore criticized that many Northeast India’s conflicts which are left unreported by mass media.

Ms Hazarimayum Jubita, Executive Director of Gender and Development Initiative and Convener of Peace Core Team, Manipur expressed that ‘Peace is a Process’. She quoted, “In Northeast India Peace Builders fight each other and form another Peace Builder.” She also mentioned that conflict can be solved from the top, down and bottom process and expressed the need of women in decision making processes and give peaceful solutions to the conflicts. She also expressed the need of women in decision making processes and give peaceful solutions to the conflicts. She said that Conflict happens at different levels, so, we need women to engage in decision making processes at different levels.

Mr. Wahengbam Joykumar, Executive Director, Human Rights Initiative, Manipur, explained the benefits of volunteerism. He mentioned about the qualities of a good leader as well as non-violent methods to combat violence. He also explained the concept of Human Rights which means freedom, equality, dignity, non-discrimination and is indivisible and universal. Further, he traced the concept of Human Rights to Indian Context, that in India, every citizen is entitled to all the Six Fundamental Rights granted by the Constitution and as citizens of India, have the right to seek constitutional remedy in times of human rights violation.

Mr. Phurpa Tsering, MA, International Relations, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, expressed his opinion about who could be Peace Volunteer, training methods, roles and responsibilities of the peace volunteer. He said that there should be linkage of local level network to the national level peace building process to ensure amplification of voices from grass roots to the national platform, to link community groups and leaders, to link networks of women to district, state and national level networks, to link with peace buildingnetworks, mothers’ bazaars, district & state conventions and meetings, awareness events, exposure and exchange visits, youth meetings, and media engagement. He also added that women representatives should be facilitated to participate in different national and regional forums works on women, peace and security agenda as well as supported to attend discussion forums and contribute to the dialogue processes.

Mr Meihoubam Rakesh, Director, Human Rights Law Network, Manipur, explained how to file First Information Report (FIR) to the police and any application to the court. He mainly focused how to apply theoretical knowledge to practical and field knowledge. He encouraged women and youths to learn the basic rights given by the constitution and spread awareness in their society by doing more practical works. According to him, attending workshop and reading books about the rules and regulation is not worth until and unless you apply that practically.

Mr RK Bobichand, Director, Change and Peacebuilding Action (CPA), expressed that “there is no formula for peace building”. He explained each and every point about the types of conflict, types of violence, different approaches to conflict like prevention, settlement, management, resolution as well as conflict transformation. Later on, he added ‘Peace is a process, many-sided, never-ending struggle to transform violence’ and explained about the types of negative and positive peace.

D. Michael Lunminthang Haokip, Doctoral Student, Department of Political Science, Manipur University, Imphal, said that in order to bring peace and to build friendship, home visit and taking documentation is one of the most important parts in bringing peace among the different societies, caste and groups. He explained how to do documentation of any incident happened and encouraged volunteers to start work from grass root level.

There were around 40 volunteers at the event and all were highly motivated by the Peace Volunteer training workshop by gaining much knowledge about the issues of Women, Peace and security, Human rights, Leadership, conflict transformation and Peace building in Northeast India. They were being assigned various tasks such as, to make documentation of conflict affected people, identification of prominent people in their area and to look whether they work for the people, collect the data of any incident happen in a year and identify themselves the areas/issues they can contribute for the society as a peace volunteer.

The workshop lay stressed on gender issues. It was suggested that the role of women in decision making processes is a critical factor in solving problems. Youth and women were encouraged to take leadership role and participate in all social activities.

Impact of social media while our elections & politics groping in the dark

By Oken Jeet Sandham Literally, every person on the street has Facebook Account. In other countries and even in major Indian cities, whether cobbler or rickshaw puller or barber or

By Oken Jeet Sandham
Literally, every person on the street has Facebook Account. In other countries and even in major Indian cities, whether cobbler or rickshaw puller or barber or vegetable vender, they mostly have social media accounts, particularly Facebook. Almost every restaurant – whether small or big – has free Internet facilities through Wi-Fi. Everyone coming to the restaurants is normally seen enjoying free Internet facilities through the Wi-Fi services, while enjoying various cuisines. The whole world is virtually at their fingertips.
Over 80% of the world leaders now have their own social media accounts, particularly Facebook. Starting from mere local politicians to Prime Ministers and Presidents, they all have owned their own social media sites. Many Queens and Kings also have joined social media. Most of them used Facebook extensively to promote their missions and charitable works, while those politicians would do their best to propagate their political and social agendas. Millions of Facebook users will also systematically use the social media sites (Facebook) to promote their commercial ventures. Various professionals will use Facebook to promote their professional programs. To a great extent, their purposes are served.
Since the advent of Facebook, the communities of the world are more connected than ever before. The boundaries have virtually disappeared and the world communities become one family. The people don’t wait any important information of any candidates these days; they can easily get it through their Facebook sites. Besides this, the general publics can directly put their questions in their social media sites and even join debates in it.
We have seen how the last American Presidential elections were fought through various social media sites. Barack Obama and his Republican rivals Senator John McCain and later with Mitt Romney virtually had their presidential campaigns organized in the Facebook and it had largely worked to capture the mood of the voters who were also users of Facebook and other social media sites.
The last American Presidential elections had shown to the world that no one could any longer fight without Facebook and other Social media machines. After the American elections were over, numbers of Facebook and other social media users were seen a quantum jump and it still keeps surging.
Every Prime Minister or President of the world would have their Facebook with millions following them. They virtually pitted against each other for their political and electoral battles. They could systematically advance to many areas. Every activity of any Prime Minister or the main Opposition Leader will be instantly uploaded in their Facebook before it goes to any other online publications, forget about Print Media that will come next day only.
In India, we have now witnessed unprecedented use of Facebook and Twitter, etc. during this time’s upcoming 16th Indian Lok Sabha elections by contending candidates and their political parties. They have been constantly uploading news of election campaigns in their respective social media sites. According to report, the social media, particularly Facebook will play a major role in 2014 elections. It said out of 534 constituencies, 160 were identified as High impact zones, 67 were identified as Medium impact zones while the rest were classified as Low impact zones.
It further disclosed that they were categorized on the basis of internet and Facebook users in that particular constituency. On basis of data collected from past year and equating it with current stats, it concluded that the High impact zones will be the major game changer in 2014 elections.
Nadrendra Modi, the BJP’s Prime Ministerial candidate has millions of Facebook and Twitter followers. His electioneering news is constantly uploaded in his and his BJP’s Facebook and Twitter sites. Congress Star Campaigner Rahul Gandhi also equally uses the services of the Facebook and Twitter for propagating his electioneering campaigns, while Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh too can’t help but depending on social media like Facebook to put his political agendas and developments, etc.
Though he projected himself very simple, Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Chief Minister and leader of AAP, couldn’t progress without depending on social media. He had to convey his thought, ideas and election campaigns through social media in many cases. In fact, the social media plays integral, both to the candidates and the public.
In India, every political party has their social media sites today. They too have used benefits of the sites to the fullest possible manner to advance their political agendas. Massive political propaganda has been created through Facebook and Twitter by every political party and their leader to project that they are the savior of the country. If closely monitored, it appears that they are unlikely to play politics without the services of Facebook and Twitter. What a revolution indeed.
Even in the Region, State Units of various National Political Parties like the BJP, Congress, etc. have opened their own social media sites and played their own games to only strengthen their propaganda machine.
Every media house does have their own various social media sites, so do all the media persons. In fact, some of the national media houses constantly upload every new development in their news portals as well as their Facebook and Twitter. These have happened, over and above their print editions. Even the electronic media like TV Channels, in spite of their live telecast of each and every development, do constantly upload their news in their Facebook and Twitter.
In Nagaland too, number of social media users are seen increasing leaps and bound. There are heated debates taking place on various issues facing them in their social media sites. Facebook has given space for each and every person to share their thoughts, ideas and plights, etc.
Hundreds of users throw their questions in the Facebook daily or hourly with regard to the current Lok Sabha elections as well as Naga political issue. It is interesting to note that while AICC Vice President Rahul Gandhi was addressing a mammoth election rally at Kohima Local Ground on March 27, news of his address was being uploaded in Facebook and Twitter simultaneously. How advance the Social Media of today is? In fact, immediate political debates generated when he raised the controversial points with regard to Naga political issue where he said, “I will not give any promise as your Chief Minister who said he would bring solution to the Naga issue within three months if he was voted to power.”
Before NPF formally lodged its complaint, the actual debates were over within few hours as soon as it was uploaded in the Facebook and Twitter. It went viral.
It is regretted that NPF and NPCC have just opened their Facebook accounts with hardly any following them. Hardly election campaign news is seen uploading in their sites. They should engage their media personnel to work for their social media sites. Nagaland BJP Unit has, however, been maintaining their Facebook site well.
NPF candidate Neiphiu Rio, who is also DAN consensus candidate, has nearly 500 followers, while Congress Candidate KV Pusa’s seemed to have just been opened recently with less than 100 followers. Some of their party functionaries, of course, have their social media accounts opened. This development clearly shows that they are yet to know the value of social media.
Looking at the present scenario, Nagaland political activities are yet to catch up the social media importance. They are still in the dark while others are busy uploading their activities, yet they do not know what is happening in Facebook with their stories. Here is a wakeup call for our political leaders to join the Facebook or else they will be left out.