Category: Imphal Free Press

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 23

Manipur today woke up to a political ruckus involving MPCC president T. N. Haokip. A street campaign poster of the BJP prominently featured a picture of he Congress president.

When a picture of the poster was uploaded in a social media status update of the senior politician of the Congress, it went viral.

The poster of the veteran Congressman in the BJP poster was displayed along busy Kangla park road right in the heart of Imphal city.

The photo which was uploaded early in the morning from an unknown source caught more attention and went viral by the seconds as it stated that Haokip is likely to join the BJP fold.

The upload on a Whatsapp group said “President of MPCC, MLA TN Haokip has unofficially joined BJP. His joining the party may be officially announced today either before or after the executive committee meeting of the BJP Manipur Pradesh scheduled to be held at 11 am today. BJP’s national leaders like Ram Madhav Prahlad Singh Patel and one more, whose name I cannot remember at this moment, will attend the meeting”.

The poster in question was displayed on the median of the road along with the photos of other key functionaries of the BJP including the chief minister, N Biren Singh.

The photos were displayed in connection with the executive committee meeting of the BJP convened today at the Classic Grande, Chingmeirong.

The poster was put on display since early morning today as a preparation for the executive committee meeting.

When IFP contacted BJP, the party denied any hand in the arrangement and informed that the poster was a mistake committed by one Sharma Enterprise, Wangkhei.

The clarification said the enterprise was reportedly engaged in the printing of hoardings and posters of the party, and that the party had nothing to do with the bizarre poster blunder.

The controversial poster was later removed and replaced with the poster of the Speaker of Manipur Legislative Assembly, Y. Khemchand.

When the mistake caught the attention of Sharma Enterprises, the firm uploaded a clarification through social networking sites apologizing for the mistake and that it (the enterprise) will bear all the responsibility.

Further in response to the development, the BJP issued a statement informing that the contract between Sharma Enterprises and the BJP has been cancelled.

The statement issued by K. Saratkumar Singh, general secretary (Administration) BJP, Manipur Pradesh, said, “For reasons of false printing and erection of hoarding, your contract with the BJP Manipur Pradesh stands cancelled. “Any resultant consequences regarding the matter shall be solely borne by your firm and the BJP Manipur Pradesh will not be responsible for it.”

Sharma Enterprises in a press released tender its apology to both BJP and Congress for committing the photo mistake.

The release signed by B. Peter Sharma said the enterprises will shoulder all the consequences of the mistake.

However, the Congress party Manipur alleged the political development as a “dirty political conspiracy” against the party (Congress) device by the BJP.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 23

The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president, T. N. Haokip today accused the BJP of playing “dirty political conspiracy” against him and the Congress party by intentionally putting up his poster with BJP symbol along with posters of BJP leaders and uploading wrong information of him on the internet that he would be joining the BJP.

Haokip told a press conference that he will seek legal help besides filing a complaint with the police cyber crime unit in connection with the incident.

Briefing media persons in this regards at Congress Bhavan, Haokip said the incident was an attempt to tarnish his political image and also defame the Congress before terming it as unfortunate.

“The BJP is not only targeting me but the entire Congress party in the country particularly the MPCC”,” he charged.

He maintained that the entire episode leading to the controversy surrounding him in the internet was intentionally device by the BJP.

The very idea behind igniting the controversy was to create confusion amongst the public, which the BJP is good at, alleged Haokip.

Nevertheless, the senior Congress legislator showing his firm commitment with his party, said that his integrity was not up for sale.

According to him he had overcome many temptations since he was first elected with Congress ticket in 2002.

Haokip claimed that he had not only refused huge amount of money but also leadership offered to him in the past by the BJP adding that former chief minister of Manipur R. K. Dorendro is the living proof.

“There are always ups and downs in politics and I have had enough experience. After what I have gone through I have committed myself that I will be with Congress as long as I am in politics”, said the MPCC president.

Responding to clarification made by Sharma Enterprise owning the responsibility of the error committed, Haokip said, “The damage has already been done”.

Stating that the Congress party is very much alive, he warned that the Cogress will toughen its stand against the BJP after the ongoing Assembly session is over.

“The longer the BJP stays in power the more the damage to Manipuri society”, said Haokip.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 23

Kumbi Government High School students threatened to boycott the coming half yearly examination which is going to commence from tomorrow if the government fails to revoke the transfer order of the school headmaster and three teachers.

Addressing a press meet today at Manipur Press Club, Imphal the game and sport secretary of school student’s association, Seram Suresh Meetei said that the students welcome the seven teachers who are newly transferred to the schools.

But they strongly condemned the transfer of their headmaster and three teachers, he added.

He said that the students association does not want the new headmaster as their head master as he has not taken up any developmental works when he was the headmaster of the school earlier.

The secretary said that the school has improved a lot during the time of their headmaster who was transferred recently. “Mid-day meal and computer facilities were made available to the students as well as maintained the academic routine properly,” he added.

For the welfare of the students and the school he appealed to the government to revoke the transfer order of their headmaster and three teachers.

From Our Correspondent

MOREH | July 23

A 13 years old girl was shot dead allegedly by a Kuki National Army (KNA) cadre at Moreh Ward No.1 at around 5 am today.

The deceased girl was a class IX student of Mt Moreh Public School, Canan Veng and she has been identified as Nengneingah Khongsai, daughter of Letthang Khongsai of Thingphai village, currently resided at her uncle’s place at Gilgal Veng.

The accused has been arrested he has claimed himself to be the boyfriend of the girl and he has been identified as Seikhosat Haokip alias Sasat Haokip, son of Thanglet Haokip of Chavanhphai, Moreh. He is said to be a cadre of Kuki Natinal Army who was deputed as a personnel bodyguard of a KNA leader. A country made 9mm pistol and three rounds of ammunition were recovered from him by the police.

While the police tried to take the culprit to Imphal, a mob of locals had an altercation with the police demanding to handover the culprit to public and an immediate bandh was called by the public around 11 am. Later, SP of Tengnoupal, S. Ibomcha had a talk with the public and controlled the situation to take the culprit to Imphal.

IMPHAL | July 23

The executive committee of state BJP today resolved to safeguard the territorial integrity of Manipur.

“The the state executive meeting of BJP took a firm stand to keep intake the territorial integrity of the state and to provide the necessary service to the needy and weaker people,” chief minister N. Biren Singh announced.

 “As opposed to the rumours that NPF ministers will break the unity of the state, the ministers of NPF are now standing for the unity of the state. This is one of the greatest achievements made by BJP. The previous governments aren’t able to do what we have done in just few months after forming the government,” said Biren.

He ridiculed the member who raised the question in the Assembly session yesterday about what BJP will be able to do in 15 months that the previous government hadn’t done in 15 years.

Biren said the member must understand that the achievement of the government is not just building bridges but creating oneness and the sense of the belongingness among the people irrespective of race is the milestone itself of a government.

The chief minister gave credit to the fellow members for executing the responsibilities without compromising so as the government can create the face of “government for people.”

The meeting was attended by MP Kshetrimayum Bhabananda Singh, works minister Thongam Biswajit , MP Prahlad Patel and founder members of BJP.

IMPHAL | July 23

The Thadou Students’ Association, Chandel has expressed strong condemnations against the murder of Nengneingah Khongsai (18), who was shot dead by an alleged KNO/KNA cadre identified as Seikhosat Haokip alias Sasat Haokip at Moreh at around 4. 30 am today.

The culprit should be given befitting punishment for killing a civilian member of the community as per law of the land, said a release. The government must also arrest the perpetrators involved in the murder of Jamkholal Zou, whose justice is still not delivered, it said adding the organisation condemns the incident of July 20, wherein it was alleged that Jangthang Mate was forcibly whisked away from his home at around 11 pm by armed KNO cadres and threatened him on some election-related matter as Jangthang supported BJP candidate in this year’s MLA election. 

The government must rein in SoO groups as well as non-SoO armed groups from engaging in terror activities for the sake of peace, security and development, it further said. We appeal to the government to remove cadres of different rank and file of KNO/KNA from Moreh to permanently install peace and tranquillity and build confidence in the mind of citizen of Moreh that such barbaric acts do not occur in the future again, it added.

Kuki Women Human Rights, Chandel district also strongly condemned the murder of Nengneingah Khongsai. In a release it urged the concerned authority to investigate the case and give befitting punishment to all involved in the crime, so that such crime is not committed again.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 23

The top prize ‘German Star of India’ of Stuttgart’s 14th Indian Film Festival, Germany was given to Loktak Lairembi (Lady of the Lake), directed by Haobam Paban Kumar and the film has become a bestowed film prize amongst Indian filmmakers.

The award recognised the best Indian feature film, along with a cheque of 4,000 Euros sponsored by the main festival sponsor, the entrepreneur from Stuttgart and honourary consul of the Republic of India for Baden-Wu¨rttemberg and Rheinland-Pfalz.

Haobam Paban Kumar’s debut feature film Loktak Lairembi was world premiered at the Asian new current section of the prestigious 21st Busan International Film Festival 2016 and had its European screening at the 67th Berlin Film Festival 2017.

It has travelled to numerous film festivals and has won more than ten awards including the Best Environment Film at the 64th National Film Awards this year.

The film is based on the short story ‘Nongmei’ by Sudhir Naoroibam. It is about Tomba, a depressed fisherman who gets a gun accidentally and marvels with the gun as his power of self-protection.

He transforms himself to an assertive man who began to believe that the gun would solve all his problems.

Paban Kumar created an ethnographic thriller with his debut feature film. It is at Loktak Lake, a scenic paradise in the north-east of India, where extreme beauty meets extreme violence. The 14th edition represented a current cross section and mirror of the Indian society with 40 films.

The festival which was held from July 19 to July 23 July concluded last night with the award ceremony and it took the audience to a five-day journey of modern day Indian cinema. The festival opened with the comedy ‘Newton’ and the German premiere of ‘Lipstick under my Burkha’.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 23

The two youths, who saved father and son from drowning in Nambul river on July 19 in a road accident have been rewarded by Marina Spring package drinking water company today at its head office at Moirangkhom today.

The duo are Mutum Nanao (23) son of M. Sarat from Khonghampat Mayai leikai and Keisham Sunder (32) son of K. Baruni from Kongba Khetri leikai.

Speaking to the media, proprietor of Marina Spring, Khagemba Sanabam said the reward is given to the two brave hearts for praising their bravery and heroic actions. “Besides education certificates the two have achieved social certificates which will add more in their quality,” he added.

If such deeds start developing in public then a well and organised society will come up in the state, Khagemba stated.

According to Nanao, he was at hump bridge when the car fell into the river. He rushed to the spot but people who were near to the incident were not taking initiative to save thse inside the car.

“Instead people were filming the incident with their cell phones. At the very moment without thinking a thought he jumped into the river and while trying to reach the car Seram Ramajit from Nongmeibung Seram Leikai came out from the window of the car. Ramajit shouted his son is trapped at the back seat,” Nanao recalled.

Nanao said, he swam towards the car and pulled out Chingkheinganba (3 years and 4 months) from the back seat of the car. When he pulled out Chingkheinganba, the child was unconscious having pale lips. He was brought to back to the bank and after giving first aid the child was saved, Nanao narrated.

Nanao urged the people to stop the habit of making films recording incidents instead of saving life and if people nearby rushed to save before him then condition of the child would not be worse.

Nanao is a registered football player and now he is playing super division under Northern Crown footbabll club, Khonghampat. And Keisham Sunder is doing passenger service with his diesel auto.

For the heroic deeds of Nanao and Sunder proprietor of Marina Spring package drinking water rewarded both with Rs. 10 thousand and a relevant job in the company.

IMPHAL | July 22

By A Staff Reporter

Shija Hospital and Research Institute is going to launch “Shija subsidized OPD scheme” in its nine departments with a consultation fee of Rs. 50 only per visit every Thursday, 2.00-4.00 p.m. from July 27.

The departments include under the scheme are Breast & Thyroid Clinic, Cardio Thoracic & Vascular Surgery, Shija Dental White, ENT (Shija ENT Hospital, Sanakeithel, Lamphel), General Medicine, General Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Orthopaedics and Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Palin Khundongbam, chairman and managing director, said 10 per cent discount on investigations, surgeries and room rent will be applicable to all the subsidized OPD patients if performed within 30 days from the date of advice by the consultant.

“The main objective of introducing this scheme is to implement new technologies and maintain world-class quality service in affordable price.” said Dr. Palin. He also announced that new medical equipment will be installed and the equipment will start functioning from next month in order to remove the inconvenience of patients in travelling to other states for treatment.

Palin claimed that the hospital has achieved several milestones in the field of surgery. Shija hospital has performed numerous cataract surgeries in Manipur. Its doctors can operate more than 80 patients per day through Phacoemulsification, a modern cataract surgery, he claimed further.

Dr. Palin said he is disappointed with the allegation of keeping dead body of patients inside the ICU to charge extra money and also disallowing the families to enter the ICU. “Due to hygienic, psychological and other factors, such restrictions are imposed.” said Dr. Palin, adding that the patients and their parties need to be counseled and educated for such matters, which they have begun.

IMPHAL | July 22

The Manipur Legistaltive Assembly today unanimously passed five demands for grants amounting to 502,85,21,00 crores for the year 2017-2018.

The demands passed by the House includes demand No. 1 state Legislature for a sum not exceeding Rs 80,35,08,000, demand No. 2 council of ministers for a sum not exceeding Rs 8,62,00,000, demand No. 3 secretariat for a sum not exceeding Rs 77,85,04,000, demand No. 12 municipal administration, housing and urban development for a sum not exceeding Rs 324,37,01,000 and demand No. 27 election for a sum not exceeding Rs 11,66,08,000.

The House also unanimously passed the Manipur Appropriation (No.3) Bill, 2017.

As soon as the House convened, the leader of the House, chief minister N. Biren Singh said that the clash between students and police on Friday was an unfortunate incident. During the clash the police had to fire tear gas shells to control the mob during which three persons were injured including a police personnel. The chief minister also said an FIR was registered in Imphal East Police Station for unlawful activities and disturbance in government movement. 

Clarifying on the transfer issue, the chief minister said, the higher secondary lecturers were given promotion and transfer for the benefit of schools. He said, the incident could have been avoided by proper communication with the concern authorities.

N Biren further informed the house that he invited the students for talks over the issue and gave assurance that the matter can be reviewed if error was found in the transfer process.

Opposition member Thangmeiband MLA Kh. Joykishan expressing his concern over the injury of students and police personnel said that, the Speaker had denied the rights of the Opposition by not giving time for question hour and zero hour during the full budget session.

Deputy chief minister Yumnam Joykumar (in-charge of Finance) moved for discussion and voting for five demands for grants, 2017-2018 on the floor of the House. Opposition MLAs Kh. Joykishan Singh, Okram Henry Singh, RK Imo Singh, K. Meghachandra Singh and Md. Abdul Nasir cut motion for demand No. 12 – Municipal Administration, Housing and Urban Development. The policy cut motion was moved on account of inability to increase honorarium of the ward members, failure to check work executed by work development committee of Imphal Municipal Corporation and misuse of fund, inability to communicate with the ward development committee and local MLAs, failure to run IMC as corporation properly, Inability to implement PMAY scheme properly, Absence of proper policy to control flash floods in municipal areas, Absence of proper policy for functioning of Imphal Municipal Corporation and lack of proper policy for development of municipal area.

Th. Lokeshwar Singh, N. Loken Singh, AK Mirabai and P. Saratchandra Singh also gave their observations on the five demands for grants. MLA Lokeshwar Singh said that, vehicles carrying raw materials for construction are polluting the city and that the waste materials should be collected on time by the concerned authority.

MLA Loken Singh appealed to the House to revive the Nambol water supply scheme (Khoriphaba water supply) and asked on the status of the repairing of the Nambol Bazar, damaged during the Jan 4, 2016 earthquake.  MLA P Sharatchandra Singh said demand No. 12 – Municipal Administration, Housing and Urban Development is deserving. He also spoke on strengthening of local urban bodies and said there is a need for satellite towns to ease the high population density in Urban areas.  He also opined that, the Liaison offices (Manipur Bhavan) in other states could help in promoting art and culture, tourism, and health services. It can also serve as information centres for students and people from other states.

Replying to queries of the Opposition MLAs Joykishan over low ranking of Imphal in the list of Smart cities, MAHUD Minister Shyamkumar said, the concerned department were unable to send the necessary documents in January, due to election code of conduct. He said, 90 percent of the works have been streamlined and continuous cleaning is taken up in the core areas of Imphal city after he took up the charge as MAHUD Minister. He was hopeful that Imphal city could become number 1 city in cleanliness in the coming years.

With regards to querires on the Imphal Smart City Mission, Shyamkumar said, Imphal Smart City Limited (ISCL) was incorporated on November 25, 2016. He said that, Rs 109 crore has been released by the Centre while a sum of Rs 17 crore has been earmarked as part of the State matching share. The Central Government and State Government will share 50 percent each of the total expenditure, he added. He said, the Board of Directors of ISCL comprises 8 directors including the nominee Director of the Central Government. The chief secretary of Manipur is the chairman of the Board of ISCL and the municipal corporation is the chief executive officer (CEO) of ISCL, he added.

Replying to the query of MLA N. Loken Singh, Shyamkumar said, the beneficiaries for PMAY were selected based on Socio-Economic Caste Census. He said, 1,330 beneficiaries were selected from the Nambol Constituency, the Minister explained that the scheme is yet to gain momentum as most of the land deeds (patta) are not in the name of women/housewives.

In response to MLAs K. Meghachandra and Abdul Nasir on AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation), Shyamkumar said, under AMRUT a minimum of 2.5 percent of the total cost is earmarked for development of parks and green spaces with children/ elderly citizen friendly facilities. He said, the total Government allocation for Manipur under AMRUT is Rs 180.32 crore out of which Rs 175.81 crore for water supply and Rs 4.41 crore for parks. The funding pattern is 90:10 (Centre/State). The State Government has submitted 3 State Annual Action Plan (SAAP) to the Ministry of Urban Development.

Regarding the query of MLA Okram Henry Singh on Solid Waste Management Plant at Lamdeng, Shyamkumar said, the yet to be inaugurated plant is fully functional. Replying to AK Mirabai during discussion over present status of renovation/reconstruction of Ima Keithel, the Minister said, as the damage incurred during the earthquake was intense so the renovation/reconstruction will be finished in due course of time.

During cut motion put up by MLA Joykishan on lack of communication between the Ward Development Committee and local MLAs, Shyamkumar said, there is no provision for involvement of local MLAs in ward development activities. He however, said that, he would try to involve local MLAs for overall development. Over the misappropriation of funds for ward development, Chief Minister said, as the investigation is still in progress, the details of the report can not be tabled in the House. He said, the status would be made available to the MLA as per his request.

After the discussion, deputy chief minister Y Joykumar (in-charge of Finance) moved the five demands to be passed by the House. All the demands were unanimously passed by the House. The House will meet again on Monday.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 22

Under the rules of procedure of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, the motion to elect seven members each to the committee on public accounts, committee on estimates and committee on public undertakings was put up by deputy chief minister, Y. Joykumar today.

The Speaker announced that the election will be held on July 26. It may be mentioned that six parliamentary secretaries had resigned from their post earlier to facilitate their entry into the various committees of the House.

 Teacher transfer is state policy :  N. Biren

Regarding the clash which occurred on Friday among students of CC Higher Secondary School and Imphal East police personnel in which injuries were caused to three policemen including commando officer–in-charge Vaiphei, police have registered an FIR.

Mentioning that the protest occurred due to the transfer of teaching staff of the school, leader of the House, Biren Singh today clarified on the floor of the House that the transfers were done under state government policy.

He said, “It is very unfortunate that there were reports of protest against the transfer of teachers. The transfer is done, following promotion of teachers. This will benefit both the students and teachers. The public should cooperate with the policies adopted by the government as it is meant for the welfare of the students and teaching community.”

Biren said police registered a case in connection with yesterday’s clash between the police and students to find out how the violence broke out.

Reports said there were stone pelting by the agitating students and the police had to use tear gas shells to bring the situation under control.

Biren said some students and three police personnel sustained injuries. “When a police team was negotiating with the students demonstrating on an Imphal street some unknown persons pelted stones at the police. The injured persons were hospitalised,” the chief minister said.

SENAPATI | July 22

The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Senapati organised a ‘One-Day FLower Show cum Sales’ under the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ programme, with the theme “There is strength within her to empower her community”,  at Senapati Mini Stadium today.

Speaking as chief-guest, Athem Muivah, Deputy Commissioner, Senapati said, in comparision, our society is much advance than the rest of the country as empowerment of girls are concerned. He further stated that ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ (BBBP) is a very unique programme as it involves all the different Government Departments, NGOs as well as public.

He requested all the stake-holders, Government Departments, NGOs, publics, etc., to join hand and work together for the successful implementation for this project as well as the other projects for the development of the district.

Speaking in her key-note address, Smt. L. Ela A Magdalene, DPO, ICDS, Senapati said that ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ was started in the year 2015. Out of 161 projects all over India, Senapati district was the lone District selected for Manipur.

She further enumerated the three main objectives of the Project as prevention of gender biased Sex Selective Elimination, ensuring survival and protection of the girl child and ensuring education and participation of the girl child.

The objectives are aimed to prepare the girl child for their married life, to give good health and financial freedom in future life.

She further said that BBBP Task Force at District and Block-Level have been formed. The Project will be giving more emphasis on the adolescent girls.

As a follow up of the programme, there will be street plays, media campaigns, documentation, BBBP Awards and observation of Girl Child Day.

The flower show was participated by different ICDS SHG Groups of the district. ICDS Tadubi SHG, ICDS Accord SHG and ICDS Kangpokpi Naga were selected as the third, second and first best group respectively.

The function was also attended by all the district level officers of the district.

Newmmai News Network

KOHIMA | July 22

The present political crisis in the party is a blessing in disguise and this is a God-given opportunity to screen out the grain from the chaff, said Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu, President of Naga People’s Front (NPF) and former Chief Minister.

Addressing party functionaries at his private residence in Kohima this afternoon, Liezietsu said, “We have identified the polluted leaders and had filtered them from the party for good. Only the faithful leaders are now in the party. The party can work peacefully and conveniently for the welfare of the party and the Naga people since corrupt and polluted leaders have been removed from the party.”

He called the 11 MLAs who stood firm with the party as the “seeds of NPF party”.

Urging party leaders and workers to stand firm on their conviction and principles, Dr. Shürhozelie said that NPF will grow taller and stronger with only the faithful and dedicated leaders to lead the party.

Coming down heavily on the BJP-RSS ideology and principles, the former Chief Minister said that NPF has severed all ties with the BJP to protect the identity and the rights of the Nagas. He said that earlier, due to its alliance with the BJP, the party on many occasion could not speak out the truth. However, he said now the NPF does not have any hesitation to speak the truth for the Naga people.

Further, NPF president said that the NPF is not against Hinduism but stated that it will not allow the saffron party to create disturbance to Naga politics and went on to add that Governor PB Acharya, “who is also a hardcore RSS pracharak”, violated all the constitutional provisions and established laws to bring down his government but that he will never achieve his dream to install a BJP government in Nagaland.

He also said that though the NPF party detached its alliance with the BJP he appreciates Prime Minster Narendra Modi for courageously supporting and strengthening the ongoing Naga Peace process and on curbing corruption.

Dr. Shürhozelie cautioned the party leaders that TR Zeliang and group have destroyed the government and now they will try to destabilise even the party. However, he reminded that if the party leaders stand committed and firm, no force of money or power can destroy the party.

He asserted that since rotten potatoes were removed from the sack, the NPF party shall rule beyond 2018.

On MKR Pillai case, the former Chief Minister questioned why so many legislators have reservation to hand over the case to CBI for inquiry.

NPF legislator CL John is his short speech termed the present crisis as “vitamin” for the party stating that filtering the corrupted MLA from the party will now make the party stronger. He also said that the crisis as revival period for the party to go stronger.

NPF MLA, Yitachu in his speech said that NPF party is growing from strength to strength and even expanding its wings to other Naga-inhabited areas that the BJP Government at the Centre got scared and brought all mechanisms at its disposal  to bring down Dr. Shürhozelie NPF government.

Therefore, Yitachu asserted that those who uphold the NPF party principles are upholding the future of the Nagas.

MLA, Vikheho Swu admitted that crisis after crisis within the NPF party occurred due to some disgruntlement and power mongering among MLAs themselves that “quality time for the development of the state could not be availed sincerely.”  He therefore, called upon the people to elect only sincere and dedicated leaders in the future.

MLA Chotisu Sazo who also spoke on the occasion appreciated the party leaders for standing firm despite crisis within the party legislature. He went on to warn that many dissident MLAs may come to lure party leaders with lucrative offers but urged to uphold the true spirit of the party.

During the programme, NPF working president, Huska Yepthomi, Women Wing President, Tonlih Wangsa, Youth Wing President, Vihoshe Swu, Farmers Wing President, Lanukaba Ao and Minority Wing President, Bishnu Bhattacharjee also spoke on the occasion.

From A Correspondent

THOUBAL | July 22

Many students came out to the streets yesterday and blocked the highway near Okram, Thoubal by forming a human chain, shouting many slogans for a new law that prevents outsiders from entering the state administrative services.

The demonstration was organised by the Thoubal district council of Kangleipak Students’ Union (KSA) and participated by students of Fancier Higher Secondary School and New Era School.

One of the members of KSA expressed that the influx of many outsiders in the state are increasing in an alarming rate. The outsiders have started many big businesses here and the economy of the state is now becoming dependent on them. Those looking for some opportunities from these business men and the politicians who want some extra votes have unlawfully included them in the voters’ list. The outsiders have also started standing in the elections and are trying to get their hands in the state administration, he added.

He also said that few ones have already got some positions in the government posts and this has created a threat to the indigenous people of Manipur.

KSA also expressed that the demonstration of the students was held so that they can save the future of future generations of Manipur.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 22

Ukhrul has a new tourist spot from today besides Shirui Hill, as Wuya Kachui village in Kamjong district is officially declared as a tourist site for the presence of a flower called in local name as ‘Wuyawon’.

Wuya Kachui village in Kamjong district is officially declared a tourist site today after inauguration by deputy commissioner of Kamjong district, Kengoo Zuringla along with sub-divisional officer (SDO), L.H. Ngathungsin.

During the function, the chief guest Kengoo Zuringla while expressing his happiness in the inauguration of such a beautiful site also stressed that the thing of beauty in the district to be preserved especially the local people. 

The opening function organised by Shingcha Katamnao Long was attended by surrounding villages’ headmen including Maku village, Puching, Changa, Yeda, Khangkhui Khullen, Langkhe and leaders of Tangkhul Katamnao Long among others.

Chairman of Shingcha village, Raiyo Zimik said that the during time of war in ancient times, villagers used to camp at the mount of Wuya Kachui, and whenever they do, the people resting there experienced sleep paralysis. Therefore the name Wuya Kachui is given.

Wuyawon flower is a ground orchid, pink in colour and blooms during the peak monsoon season of July month.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 22

The “lawful chief” of Lamdan/Lamtan village, M. Acham asked the T.A. and Hills and DC, Churachanpur to enquire into whether a criminal can hold the post of village chief or village authority by referring to the Village Authority Act, 1956.

Addressing a press meet today at Manipur Press Club, Imphal, Acham claimed that he has been appointed as the lawful chief of Lamdan/Lamtan by the former chief (his father) by convgening a clan meeting on the genuine Meiringmei clan on 2014.

He said that M. Khuripou was appointed as the chief of Lamdan/Lamtan village in 2015 with the help of the former deputy chief minister, Gaikhangam by superseding all the previous orders of the TA and Hills, principal secretary.

He said that after appointing Khuripou as the new chief of the village he has been looting the village forest wealth which has been preserved by their forefathers more than 100 years.

As the village chief post has been forcefully usurped Khuripou has made a shameful attempt to sell a dense forest area at a price of Rs. 5 lakhs but timely intervention made the attempt futile, he added.     

Acham charged Khuripou that he has conducted many criminal activities like deforestation, illegal stone quarries in the village and even misuses funds of the sanitary schemes and mid-day meal provided by SSA for the village school.

He appealed to the government and the concerned authority to look into this and take up action to bring justice.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 22

Students of Ananda Singh Higher Secondary Academy today protested in front of the school at Nongmeibung, Imphal demanding roll back of the transfer order of the four teachers of the school.

During the protest which started from around 1.30 pm, vehicles were stopped from passing the road in front of the school gate.

Later at around 4 pm police were able to control the situation after negotiating with the student leaders.

Speaking to media persons, Ananda Singh Higher Academy Students’ Union, general secretary, Oinam Bonny said that the students of the school strongly condemn the transfer of the four teachers from the school as they have already covered half of the syllabus.

The transfer of the teachers during the middle of the academic seems that the government likes to separate the bonds between the teachers and students, he added.

The general secretary urged the government to roll back the transfer of the four teachers with immediate effect as it will give a big blow to students’ career, who are going to appeare in the upcoming council examination.

Bonny further asked the government to fill up the teachers, as the school suffers lack of teachers.

The student association warned that certain forms of agitation will take place if the government failed to draw back the transfer order of the four teachers of the school.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 22

The “lawful chief” of Lamdan/Lamtan village, M. Acham asked the T.A. and Hills and DC, Churachanpur to enquire into whether a criminal can hold the post of village chief or village authority by referring to the Village Authority Act, 1956.

Addressing a press meet today at Manipur Press Club, Imphal, Acham claimed that he has been appointed as the lawful chief of Lamdan/Lamtan by the former chief (his father) by convgening a clan meeting on the genuine Meiringmei clan on 2014.

He said that M. Khuripou was appointed as the chief of Lamdan/Lamtan village in 2015 with the help of the former deputy chief minister, Gaikhangam by superseding all the previous orders of the TA and Hills, principal secretary.

He said that after appointing Khuripou as the new chief of the village he has been looting the village forest wealth which has been preserved by their forefathers more than 100 years.

As the village chief post has been forcefully usurped Khuripou has made a shameful attempt to sell a dense forest area at a price of Rs. 5 lakhs but timely intervention made the attempt futile, he added.     

Acham charged Khuripou that he has conducted many criminal activities like deforestation, illegal stone quarries in the village and even misuses funds of the sanitary schemes and mid-day meal provided by SSA for the village school.

He appealed to the government and the concerned authority to look into this and take up action to bring justice.

Khogen Khoibam

IMPHAL | July 22

The Grassy Knoll BMX boys (GBB) today organised the World BMX Day for the first time in Manipur at the Indoor Stadium of Imphal College, Kwakeithel Lamdong, Airport Road.

The BMX riders commenced the day by riding all the way from Kangla to Imphal College and the event was packed with performances by B-Boying dancers, magic show and drama that entertained the students and teachers of the Imphal College and other audiences.

The founder of GBB, Loyanganba Laishram has said that inclusion and recognition of extreme sports in the Olympics has energised the BMX riders to perform more in the world arena. He also said that the contemporary BMX riders are very thankful to their mentors Umananda and Dipen for introducing the wave of BMX and skateboarding in Manipur.

There will be more to come up in a series in the coming years with more events of competitions, he added.

The guest of honour of the function, Umananda Irom has said that the BMX riders of these days are too fleet-footed in their performance. He said that BMX stunt is a form of art which requires a good discipline and synchronisation to make the show complete.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | July 22

Well known poet and prose writer Arambam Ongbi Memchoubi’s literary works were celebrated today with a programme named “Through my Window” organised by Sahitya Akademi at Dave Literature auditorium, Imphal.

The Akademi award winner’s life and works were looked back through a magnifying lens by another eminent writer K. Shantibala professor Manipuri department, Manipur University by delivering a talk on “Eina Uh-jhaba Memchoubi.”

Memchoubi was born at Kwakeithel Moirang Purel Leikai on January 1, 1957 to Thounaojam  Babu Singh and Sanjanbam Ibempishak as eldest of 10 siblings. Memchoubi published her first poetry book in 1984.

The social activist turned writer is the wife of late Arambam Somorendro. Brought up in Nambol, she got the inspiration to write from a very young age whilein staying in Nambol.

Quoting Menchoubi Shantibala said, “I was an activist before. I had not dreamt of writing. However, after getting two poems published in Macha Leima magazine my life changed to a great extent.”

During the lecture, Shantibala presented Memchoubi’s aspect on feminism, mystical force, culture and tradition through her poems.

1. Behari Singh, convenor Manipur Language Advisory Board Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi said the programme’s main objective is to analyse the works of the writer.

Her works made it crystal clear that Memchoubi is a multi-faceted writer, he concluded.