NSCN(IM) furious with Delhi

Newmai News Network DIMAPUR, Jan 16: Two days after the fiasco near Camp Hebron with… more »

Newmai News Network
DIMAPUR, Jan 16: Two days after the fiasco near Camp Hebron with the Assam Rifles, the NSCN-IM accused New Delhi of violating the ceasefire ground rules.

NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chisi Swu and the outfit`s general secretary Th. Muivah were prevented by the Assam Rifles personnel from visiting Swu`s home town Zunheboto (in Nagaland) with the directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday.

Expressing anger over the Saturday development, NSCN-IM leader V.S Atem in a press conference in Dimapur today said the act of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) was nothing but a violation of the ceasefire ground rules. “The Government of India wants to solve the Naga political problem. The Nagas want the solution. However, if we don`t meet our people for consultation how can we move forward in solving the problem?” fumes V.S Atem, a former `military chief` of the NSCN-IM.

On Saturday, Muivah and Swu were on their way to Zunheboto from their camp Hebron in the large entourage consisting of about 70 vehicles but were stopped by the waiting Assam Rifles at Bade village led by an Assam Rifles brigadier at around 9:30 am. Bade village is located at about 20 kilometres from NSCN-IM`s Hebron camp.

The Assam Rifles asked Muivah and Swu not to go ahead with their visit to Zunheboto without obtaining a permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs. At around 3 pm the Ministry of Home Affairs had reportedly allowed Muivah and Isak Swu to visit Zunheboto but with certain conditions.

One condition of the MHA for the NSCN-IM leaders`s tour to Zunheboto is that Muivah and Swu will travel without weapons. The second condition of the MHA to the NSCN-IM leaders is that personal security guards shall not carry weapons even in concealed manner.

The third condition has been that the number of vehicles not to exceed twenty  and the NSCN-IM leaders will not hold any public meeting or press conference.

Meanwhile, V.S Atem did not mention anything about the proposed visit of the NSCN-IM leaders to Zunheboto.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/nscnim-furious-with-delhi/

Army Chief moves Supreme Court in age row

NEW DELHI,  January 16: In an unprecedented move, Army Chief Gen V K Singh on… more »

NEW DELHI,  January 16: In an unprecedented move, Army Chief Gen V K Singh on Monday moved the Supreme Court against the government’s rejection of his claim on his date of birth.

In writ petition, he is believed to have questioned the government’s decision to treat his date of birth as May 10,1950 instead of May 10,1951 as claimed by him on the basis of his matriculation certificate and other documents.

This is the first time that any Service chief has dragged the government to the court of law.

The petition has been filed and senior advocate U U Lalit will represent Gen Singh before the apex court.

In his petition, Gen Singh has said the matter related to his “honour and integrity” as he headed a force of 13 lakh personnel.

Questions government`s move

He questioned why the government had chosen to “change” his date of birth after he had spent 36 years in service and promoted throughout the career.

Gen Singh’s action caps months of tussle between him and the Ministry of Defence during which he made two statutory representations to the Ministry.

Defence Minister A K Antony had recently rejected his statutory representation which ended all the internal appeal options on the subject for the General.

By this decision of the government, Gen Singh will have to retire on May 31.

He has been contending that May 10, 1951 should be treated as his actual date of birth as it was mentioned in his matriculation certificate but the Defence Ministry has rejected it as May 10, 1950 is the date entered in his UPSC entrance form for National Defence Academy (NDA).

`Kept his options open`

Interestingly, at a press conference on Friday last, the Army Chief had kept his options open on the issue without disclosing the strategy.

Asked if he was contemplating resignation, he had said, “Please leave it to my judgement what do I want to do. It is an issue that concerns me. Let me decide on some action after I get time to think about myself.”

Queried if he was not ruling out resignation, he said “let me find time time to think about myself.”

Gen Singh, who took over as the Army Chief on March 31, 2010, has been maintaining that the issue related to his “integrity and honour“.

He had said that he tackled the issue in “organisational interest“.

A para-commando and veteran of 1971 Indo-Pak war succeeded Gen Deepak Kapoor.

Mr. Antony, while rejecting Gen Singh’s statutory representation, had sent a letter to him expressing full confidence in his leadership.

Home Minister P Chidambaram, a member of the Appointments Committee of Cabinet, last week told a press conference that the age issue of Gen Singh had been dealt with “fairly and justly“.

“We hold the Army Chief in great respect. He is a fine soldier. He has done remarkable service to the country. We are unhappy that the controversy should have erupted but I am hopeful that that controversy will be resolved,” Mr. Chidambaram had said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/army-chief-moves-supreme-court-in-age-row/

Ukhrul holds series of poll meets

From John K. Kaping UKHRUL, Jan 16:  DC Ukhrul and observers and assistant observers of… more »

From John K. Kaping
UKHRUL, Jan 16:  DC Ukhrul and observers and assistant observers of the three assembly constituencies of the district held a series of meetings on different aspects of the forthcoming assembly elections at the chamber of the returning officer here today.

The marathon session deliberated on various issues related to election expenditure accountings, security aspects, electronic voting machines (EVMs) and ‘worry list’ trainings.

The high-level meeting was attended by Sahail Ali, General Observer, Harsh Prakash, Expenditure Observer, Alok Kumar, Security Observer, assistance observers RK Sanjaoba and Standhope A Shatsang along with the top police officers including Ukhrul SP.

A reliable source disclosed that with a view to ensure free and fair poll in the district, the meeting took up the ‘worry list’ that included precautionary measures to subside or abrogate any unwanted elements leading to the public apprehension or derailing peaceful and democratic elections. Other highlights were discussions on stopping proxy voting or impersonation, drill on the rules advocated in the election code of conduct, new EC order on photographing of voters in all the polling stations.

Also, strong security cover for the candidates, agents, workers and the pubic voters was discussed and worked-out during the meeting. In this regard, residents of Ukhrul district have been told to assist and co-operate with election officials.

The public have also been asked to refrain from organizing or participating at any sort of political rally without the prior permission of the district administration.

With regards to the matter of election expenditure, the source added that a brief but thorough examination of the candidates’ accounts took place. Further, the deployment of the Central Para Military Forces across the district was okayed.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/ukhrul-holds-series-of-poll-meets/

`Poll related expenditures have come down` CEO Manipur

By Chitra Ahanthem IMPHAL, Jan 16: Elections in Manipur which have been synonymous with much… more »

By Chitra Ahanthem
IMPHAL, Jan 16: Elections in Manipur which have been synonymous with much noise and fanfare have undergone a major change with strict election guidelines being enforced through the directives of the Election Commission of India (ECI). “There is a lot of appreciation for the lack of noise pollution this time. Our supervision has ensured that poll related expenses remain low,” said P.C. Lawmkunga, Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur to IFP today. The CEO further mentioned that surveillance and monitoring teams to keep track of political parties and their candidates are being dispatched to every district in the state.

“These teams are made of officials from the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) who along with a team of external observers, are keeping an eye on poll related expenditures,” said Lawmkunga. He further added that surveillance was also being done at Imphal airport to keep track of cash surplus being brought it.

The strict monitoring on the lead up to the state assembly elections may well have led to the disappearance of huge roadside hoardings in prime locations around Imphal. Earlier, the hoardings at Nityaipaat Chuthek and those along BT road had huge pull outs of the Congress President, Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Shri Manmohan Singh along with Sri O. Ibobi and Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President, Shri Gaikhangnam. A lone hoarding of the Manipur People’s Party (MPP) featuring party President Nimaichand Luwung and the late, Shri Alimuddin put up on BT road has also been taken down.

Political parties have cut down visibly on the scale of political meetings and rallies in the state. While flag hoisting, nomination filing or even press meets were marked earlier by large presence of vehicle cavalcades, long lines of flag waving supporters, the current election scenario has come to resemble a very muted presence with political parties being wary of being caught on the wrong foot.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/poll-related-expenditures-have-come-down-ceo-manipur/

NCP, MPP pledge good governance and territorial integrity in manifestos

IMPHAL, January 15: The Nationalist Congress Party, NCP, Manipur state unit, and the state regional… more »

IMPHAL, January 15: The Nationalist Congress Party, NCP, Manipur state unit, and the state regional political party the Manipur People’s Party, MPP, released their manifestos this evening.

The National Congress Party, Manipur manifesto was released this evening by its national general secretary Purno.A Sangma at the NCP office in the presence of the state NCP leader Radhabinod Koijam with its MLAs and office bearers at Thangmeiband.

Speaking to media person PA Sangma said that as per the manifesto, bringing good governance, protcting the state territorial integrity, ushering in communal harmony, working for peace and development will be the NCP’s campaign point in fighting the forthcoming election in Manipur.

He further said that the party will fight against corruption and crime against the women and children.

On the other hand, to pursue some of the issues of good governance, the NCP will seriously into the issue of corruption, incompetence, unemployment, crime against women and children, AFSPA, reintroduction of the Inner Line permit system, territorial integrity question, drugs and HIV-Aids, frequent blockades on the national highways and low productivity facing the state general public in recent times.

Radhabinod Koijam, president of the state unit of the NCP also said that in the forthcoming election the NCP has fielded 23 candidate. He further said that the party had actually sent up 24 candidates, however one candidate has withdrawn therefore only 23 candidate are left to fight the election.

He said his party will fight to bring changes in the state.

In the meantime, the regional political party of the state, the Manipur People’s Party, MPP, has also released its manifesto today at its office by its president Nimaichand Luwang in the presence of office bearers.

Speaking to mediapersons the MPP president said, the MPP was establish in the year 1968 with an objectives of protecting the territorial integrity and the identities of the ethnic groups of Manipur that had together shared the joys and sorrows in the long history of this state.

He said the MPP has time and again pledged to protect the territorial integrity and common identity of this state, and MPP will do everything within its power to safeguard the identities and nourish the culture, traditions, customary practices of all the ethnic groups of Manipur.

He further said the MPP will also work towards means to prevent frequent disruption of traffic along the Natinal Highway.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/ncp-mpp-pledge-good-governance-and-territorial-integrity-in-manifestos/

Neiphiu Rio to campaign in Tml, Chandel and Ukhrul

UKHRUL, Jan 15: The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio is all set to visit… more »

UKHRUL, Jan 15: The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio is all set to visit Manipur on 19th and 21st of this month on campaign trial for Naga People’s Front in the State.

Detailing the schedule of his visit, the itinerary programme issued by S. Kho John, General Secretary, NPF Manipur Unit said, the Nagaland Chief Minister will visit Tamenglong on Jan 19, at 11 am, Chandel on 21 Jan at 10:30am and Ukhrul on 21 at 1pm.

Meanwhile, Ukhrul AC NPF candidate Samuel Risom today campaigned along with his workers in the areas of Sihai Khullen, Sihai Khunou, Khamasom Khullen, Khamasom Walleley and other neighbouring villages.

Chingai AC NPF candidate Paul Muinao accompanied by former Minister Aza Shimray and former MLA Dr. Khashim Ruivah visited the villages of Nungbi, Chingjaroi Peh (Paoyi), Paorei and Phungcham.

The campaign of Phungyar Kendra NPF candidate Honreikhui Kashung has covered Mapithel, Kasom and Thoubal range.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/neiphiu-rio-to-campaign-in-tml-chandel-and-ukhrul/

Three gunned down by police at Lamdeng Khunou

IMPHAL, January 15: In yet another encounter, three persons suspected to be UG suspects were… more »

IMPHAL, January 15: In yet another encounter, three persons suspected to be UG suspects were gunned down by security personnel today at around 8.30. pm. The incident took place at an inter village road connecting Iroisemba and Lamdeng Khunou.

According to the police, on receipt of specific information about movements of suspected UG cadres,  a team of Imphal west commandos conducted routine operations at the said area. Further, some suspicious persons were found loitering near the site.

As the police team challenged the individuals to stop and identify themselves, the commandos were fired upon by the miscreants. The commandos retaliated and engaged the attackers, police said.

In the aftermath, it was found that one individual was found near the said area and later police discovered two other corpse in the vicinity.

Several arms and ammunition including one AK-56 rifle along with magazine containing live rounds were recovered from the possession of the deceased men.

One M-20 pistol along with three live rounds, one hand grenade and an IED with detonator was recovered from their possession.

It is believed that one among the three may be Md. Abdul Haque of Lillong.

The real identities of the other slain individuals could not be ascertained till the time of filing this report and are being kept at RIMS mortuary for identification and post mortem.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/three-gunned-down-by-police-at-lamdeng-khunou/

Rejected candidate arrested for UG nexus and lobbing grenade

IMPHAL, January 15: A person who filed nomination as an Independent candidate and who was… more »

IMPHAL, January 15: A person who filed nomination as an Independent candidate and who was rejected by the state election committee, identified as one Moirangthem Totomsana alias Toto alias Nongsaba 40 yrs s/o M. Tombiyaima of Heirok Part-II Mayai Leikai was arrested by a combine team of thoubal CDOs and 15 AR during a search operation held at Thoubal Wangjing area for nexus with a militant outfit.

Speaking to media persons, OC Thoubal Sudhir Singh said that the arrested person Moirangthem Totomsana was involved in lobbing a hand granaded at the residence of M Oken of the INC, Heirok assemly constituency on January 10 at about 7:24 pm.

Sudhir further said that as per interrogation he disclosed that on Janaury 10 at about 7 pm he himself under the command of one Robinson of the UPPK, along with some members of the outfits were dropped at Ukhongsang by some cadres of the UPPK.

He further told the OC that he along with his partners in the crime after being dropped, crossed a paddy field and marched towards the residence of M Oken.

Taking the opportunity of security lapse, he hurled the grenade at the Oken resident, the Thoubal OC said he was told by the captured man.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/rejected-candidate-arrested-for-ug-nexus-and-lobbing-grenade/

DGAR equestrian kicks off

IMPHAL, January 15: The 9th edition of the DGAR cup State Equestrian Championship and the… more »

IMPHAL, January 15: The 9th edition of the DGAR cup State Equestrian Championship and the 3rd IGAR (south) Junior Equestrian Championship was kick off today in a glittering inaugural ceremony at the Polo ground, Imphal. In all 12 teams containing over 94 riders in senior, junior and young girl’s category from 9 different esteemed clubs are participated in the championship.

Major General UK Gurung, YSM, IGAR (S) who graced the inaugural function as chief guest, said that it was an opportune moment to meet all the riders and the sports enthusiast from different sections of the society. He also added that the championship is aimed at encouraging the game of Polo and Equestrian to discover hidden talents in a sport which is said to have originated from the state of Manipur.

The inaugural function of the championship was also attended by Dr S Joykumar, president, Manipur Equestrian Association, Brigadier Navneet Kumar, commander 9 sectors AR and Dr. Th. Jeevan Singh, director, veterinary and animal husbandry services.

The function showcased the rich and varied cultural heritage of the state with traditional reception and Pot-Lanba. The flag hoisting ceremony was followed by March Past of the participating team led by piper band 30 Assam Rifles.

The release further said that the Equestrian events are scheduled in a span of 4 days and include events like Tent Pegging (Team), Tent Pegging (individual) in senior and junior categories with individual show jumping in all the three categories. 

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/dgar-equestrian-kicks-off/

JAC claims arrested man is innocent

IMPHAL, January 15: A Joint Action Committee against the wrongful arrest of an innocent auto… more »

IMPHAL, January 15: A Joint Action Committee against the wrongful arrest of an innocent auto driver today submitted a memorandum to the DGP, Manipur, demanding necessary action against the police personnel involved.

Speaking at a press conference, secretary of the JAC Haji Arafat Ali disclosed JAC strongly condemn the reported inhuman act of the state police commandos and the 42 Assam Rifle perpetrated on the innocent auto driver it said such behaviours result in surrender of public faith in these forces.

He further said that Haji Arafat Ali is an innocent person who earns his daily wages driving an auto rickshaw  and unfortunately he was arrested by the combined teams of CDOs and 42 AR near the Kongpal bridge at about 2:30 pm charging a a cadre of KCP(MC) on January 13, and later in the next day he was found at Kakching police station with various charges against him.

He said the charges slapped on him are all unfounded, and so the JAC demanded his unconditional release.

He said the JAC is also demanding appropriated action against the commandos and AR personnel for unwarranted arrest.

Rebutal: The 42 Assam Rifles in the meantime has clarified that Md. Amzad Khan, 29, s/o Md Abdul Hakim of Keibung Wangmata is an active overground KCP(MC).

A release said he was arrested while trying to excape from a vehicle check post.

It said he was carrying an extortion note claiming he confessed to extorting and collecting money for his party.


Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/jac-claims-arrested-man-is-innocent/

Man nabbed for poaching zoo animal

Newmai News Network GUWAHATI, Jan 15: A man from Churchandpur district of Manipur was nabbed… more »

Newmai News Network
GUWAHATI, Jan 15: A man from Churchandpur district of Manipur was nabbed by Assam forest guards from Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden in Guwahati today for attempting to poach in the zoo.

According to divisional forest officer (DFO) Utpal Bora, the poacher identified as one Chinkhansong (55) was arrested inside the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden by the forest guards on Sunday morning. The poacher was nabbed along with a .303 rifle, six live cartridges, a machete and an axe. The forest officer said that during interrogation Chinkhansong said he had sneaked into the zoo to kill a rhino and then take its horn.

Utpal Bora said that this morning, one of the forest guards saw Chinkhansong loitering about in a suspicious manner near the one-horned rhino enclosure. Without wasting much time the forest guards arrested the poacher and handed over to the police.

The forest officer said, “During the interrogation the poacher disclosed that he had crossed over the boundary wall last evening hoping that Sunday would be a holiday for zoo officials and guards in view of Magh Bihu.”  Chinkhansong had also confessed during the interrogation that he was a member of an organized gang engaged in poaching.

Principal chief conservator of forest Suresh Chand said that Chinkhansong came to Guwahati on January 13 and was staying in a hotel in Guwahati.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/man-nabbed-for-poaching-zoo-animal/

Cold wave hits Manipur, NE

By Sobhapati Samon IMPHAL, January15: Manipur is in the grip of a cold wave as… more »

By Sobhapati Samon
IMPHAL, January15: Manipur is in the grip of a cold wave as the mercury plunged to 2.6 degree Celsius in the state capital today. The maximum temperature recorded was 21.9 degree, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Imphal sources said.

The minimum temperature of the volatile state which was hovering around 10 Degree Celsius on an average this month, has been gradually going down since Saturday, recording 2.6 degree Celsius which is much colder then that of December 14’s temperature recorded here.

Besides the state capital, severe cold wave conditions also prevailed in other hill district headquarters of the state,sources informed.”Cold wave conditions prevailed in some parts of west Madhya Pradesh and at isolated places in Assam & Meghalaya, Nagaland-Manipur-Mizoram-Tripura, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim and west Uttar Pradesh”,reports Indian Meteorological Department in their website today. “Cold day conditions also prevailed at isolated places in east Uttar Pradesh.”With a minimum temperature of 2 degree Celsius,January 21 was the coldest day during last against previous year’s 2.3 degree Celsius as per Meteorological Office Imphal records on January 13.”Even though coldest day of the year 2010 was in January, people feel colder this fortnight because fog has remained for longer period”,feels weather report observers in Imphal.

The cold wave has forced households in Manipur to burn a huge amount of charcoal for their ‘meiphu’ (local heater). Earlier, households used to have a fireplace called Phung-ga to keep the house warm. But such fireplaces have nowadays given way to electrical appliances. Interestingly, the irregular power supply has forced many people to go back to charcoal to keep themselves warm despite its soaring prices.With cold wave gripping the State over the last few days besides recently concluded prolonged blockade, demand for charcoal has suddenly increased. “One bag of charcoal weighing 50 kg costs between Rs 450 to 500 today”, an Imphalite felt. “Last season the price was around Rs 360 to Rs 380.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/cold-wave-hits-manipur-ne/

CRY complies child rights manifesto

IMPHAL, 15th January, 2012:  Child rights issues affecting children in the state continue to be… more »

IMPHAL, 15th January, 2012:  Child rights issues affecting children in the state continue to be conspicuously absent from the pre-election agendas of the various political parties, says CRY – Child Rights and You.

The NGO has compiled a Child Rights manifesto which lists issues affecting children’s lives in Manipur, and has asked all political parties to commit to ensuring a safe and secure social environment, where every child can enjoy a peaceful and healthy life and grow to their full potential. As Manipur heads to the polling booths in a few days, the NGO has intensified its efforts to ensure the rights of children in the state by directly advocating with all political parties themselves.

As with all states that witness turmoil, the children of Manipur have suffered the worst effects of the unrest, even though they are not the obvious targets. Being not in access to quality schooling and education, poor access to basic healthcare and a palpable fear of  being kidnapped or trafficked out of the state are just a few of the realities faced by Manipuri children on a daily basis.

While elaborating on the need for a child rights manifesto, Atindranath Das, Director CRY East says, “Children must be viewed as equal citizens, entitled to enjoy equal rights. CRY advocates that all political parties should consider the rights of children; think of them and the promises the state has made to them through the Constitution – that of a life of dignity that must include food, health, shelter, education, protection and play.” According to him, “As Manipur is passing through a phase of turmoil, it is the need of the hour for whichever party comes to power to ensure a conflict-free, safe and protected environment for all children.” 

Speaking at a press conference in Imphal today, Ashim Ghosh, senior manager DS, CRY East said, “As in the last Assembly elections in 2007, CRY has been watching the political arena closely, with the hope that children’s issues would be properly reflected in the agenda of the candidates. Unfortunately, we have found that despite the large number of children’s organisations pointing out this noticeable gap, political parties continue to ignore children and the issues that affect them. So we are now going directly to the parties, knocking on doors to remind candidates that the ultimate winners should always be children.” 

Child rights can only become central to a state’s political agenda if the people of the state choose to make it priority by ensuing government accountability to actualise the rights of children.

Hence, during this State Assembly Election, CRY – Child Rights and You, seeks to raise public awareness on the state of children in Manipur, and unite people to usher in lasting change in their lives.

CRY calls out to each and every person  – the electorate – to hold representatives, contesting candidates, political parties and the policy makers accountable for child rights by demanding specific, non-negotiable entitlements from the government.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/cry-complies-child-rights-manifesto/

Muivah and Swu prevented from entering Zunhebodo district

Newmai News Network DIMAPUR, Jan 14: There was a stand-off between the Assam Rifles and… more »

Newmai News Network
DIMAPUR, Jan 14: There was a stand-off between the Assam Rifles and the NSCN-IM in Nagaland today when the entourage of Thuingaleng Muivah and Isak Chisi Swu was prevented in a mid-way from going to Zunheboto.

NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and the outfit`s chairman Isak Chisi Swu were on their way to Zunheboto, a Nagaland district but the waiting Assam Rifles stopped them at a place called Bade village, some 20 kilometres from the outfit`s camp Hebron at around 9:30 am. Around 70 vehicles were part of the NSCN-IM leadership entourage.

Sources informed Newmai News Network said there was a stand-off since then between the Naga outfit and the Assam Rifles. The matter got resolved only in the late afternoon at around 3:30 pm after which the NSCN-IM leaders returned back to their camp Hebron.

According to sources, the NSCN-IM leaders were stopped by the Assam Rifles with a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The Assam Rifles told the NSCN-IM that Muivah and Swu could not visit Zunheboto without getting permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs.From 9:30 am till 3:30 pm there was an intense argument between the Assam Rifles authority and the NSCN-IM leaders at Bade village. The Assam Rifles team was reportedly led by a brigadier. The Nagaland police officials along with large number of police personnel reportedly rushed to Bade village to calm the situation. Unconfirmed reports said the Nagaland government also played a role to resolve today`s impasse at Bade village. At around 3 pm the Ministry of Home Affairs reportedly allowed Muivah and Isak Swu to visit Zunheboto but with certain conditions. The MHA reportedly directed that not more than 20 vehicles can follow the NSCN-IM leaders` visit to Zunheboto. The MHA directives also reportedly asked NSCN-IM leaders not to hold meetings at Zunheboto.

Following all these developments, the NSCN-IM leaders have reportedly put off their visit to Zunheboto for the time being.

“The MHA had insulted us,” fumes Phumthing Shimrang, `chief of the army staff` of the NSCN-IM`s armed wing.

Earlier in the morning, Muivah had told the media that the have to talk to their people. “We have to talk with our people. We need interactions. More interactions with our people,” said Muivah.

It can be noted that the tension had been building since yesterday after the NSCN-IM leadership had learnt that the MHA had sealed all the roads from Hebron camp leading to Zunheboto by the Assam Rifles.

Meanwhile the NSCN-IM said today the itinerary of Muivah and Swu to Zunhebuto has been deferred on account of certain untenable conditions laid down by the Government of India and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) through its Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG).

One condition of the MHA for the NSCN-IM leaders`s tour to Zunheboto is that Muivah and Swu will travel without weapons. The second condition of the MHA to the NSCN-IM leaders is that personal security guards shall not carry weapons even in concealed manner. The third condition has been that the number of vehicles not to exceed twenty  and the NSCN-IM leaders will not hold any public meeting or press conference

“We are extremely shocked by the immature policy of the GOI when the NSCN is holding serious political negotiation to end the more than six decades of conflict. We seriously question the stand of the government of India (GOI) and the MHA. The position taken by the MHA has nakedly exposed the true colour of the GOI and a big question on their sincerity in finding an early and honourable political solution,” the NSCN-IM today.

The outfit then condemns in the strongest term “the double standard and provocative decision” of the GOI to prevent the visit of Isak Chishi Swu and Th. Muivah to Zunhebuto. The NSCN-IM said it considers this a policy of dividing the Nagas and deliberately excluding the Naga people from the efforts to arrive at a peaceful political solution.

“Lasting political solution can be arrived at only through genuine democratic process of involving the people. Therefore, we question the deliberate strategy of the GOI to exclude the Naga people from the peace process and that certainly will have grave ramifications,” the NSCN-IM stated while adding, “Failing to understand and value the steps taken by the Nagas to seek peaceful political solution to the decades old political conflict, we observe, is a serious political bankruptcy within the Indian leadership.”

The NSCN-IM then thanks the Sumi people including the Sumi Hoho, student communities and Church fraternity for their earnest effort to welcome the `collective leadership,` Chairman Isak Chishi Swu and General Secretary, Th. Muivah and their entourage. “We learnt that you have given your utmost efforts. We are sincerely moved. We thank you, the Sumi people. We will not fail to come and we will not leave you behind in ther the final political solution,” it concluded.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/muivah-and-swu-prevented-from-entering-zunhebodo-district/

Fire guts many shops at Ccpur New Market

LAMKA, January 14: Fire from an unkown sources broke out in the main market areas… more »

LAMKA, January 14: Fire from an unkown sources broke out in the main market areas of New Market where most shop deals in goods and garments imported from Moreh this morning at about 7 am and reduced to ashes a U- shape building that housed three shops selling  shoes and garments as well as two video parlours.

The shops were located adajacent  to the former Churachandpur Cinema Hall which has now been partitioned into many shops selling garments and shoes of various types.

Owners of the shops were indentified as Lulun, Piangpu and Tete while those of the vidoe parlours are Mangcha and Lalpu according to sources.

At about 7 am this morning when every body was busy in the market areas of New Market  fire started from a corner in a line of houses facing mostly the west and after it become more intense passersby and owners of shop nearby panicked and rang an alarm bell.

Fire brigade tried to extinguished the fire but in vain said a shocked women to IFP.

Meanwhile police team and personnels from the BSF also reached the place to put in their mite in dousing the flames.

So far no exact estimates of damage could be obtain  but is believed to be worth several lakhs.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/fire-guts-many-shops-at-ccpur-new-market/

Molested girl points finger at police

IMPHAL, January 14: Decrying the report of molest of one 11 years girl by suspected… more »

IMPHAL, January 14: Decrying the report of molest of one 11 years girl by suspected police personnel today the Hapta Bazaar area women and youth protested by closing the new checkon road for some hours.

The incident happened this afternoon when the girl Sony (name change) a Class VI student of Eastern High School was shopping for gycerlin at the glocery shop of one non local.

She told mediapersons today that in name of talking to her he started touching her body and further grabbed her private parts. When she try to shout, he held her and shut her mouth using his hand, she added.

She also added that the person was unknown to her.

She said she managed to free herself and ran to her father and elders to report the matter.

Eye witnesses of the incident also said people of the area rushed out and caught hold of the accused. However the man was rescued by Imphal east police CDOs vehicle No. 3 after firing several rounds of bullets to disperse the crowd.

Angry folks then blocked the Checkon road for about 2 hour.

In the meantime local women folks and club also filed an FIR to the concern police station on the assault.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/molested-girl-points-finger-at-police/

5 sitting MLAsdrop out of race

Newmai News Network IMPHAL, Jan 14: Five sitting MLAs of Manipur Legislative Assembly had failed… more »

Newmai News Network
IMPHAL, Jan 14: Five sitting MLAs of Manipur Legislative Assembly had failed to file their nomination papers for the January- 28 scheduled general elections even as 11 aspiring candidates, including one woman today delivered their withdrawal notices on the last day of withdrawal of candidatures.

The five sitting MLAs who chose not to contest in the polls include Thangminlen Kipgen from Kangpokpi Assembly Constituency holding Hills Area Committee chairman, Marung Makunga of Tengnoupal Assembly Constituency, M. Thorii in Mao Assembly Constituency, Dr Kasim Ruivah of Chingai Assembly Constituency and Md. Hellauddin from Lilong Assembly Constituency.

The reason behind their failure to file their nominations could not be confirmed as the MLAs could not be reached for comment.

Sources close to them said the five MLAs could not get party tickets of their choice owing to which the legislatures decided not to contest the elections.

Meanwhile, 11 candidates who have already filed their nominations for polls to the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly on Saturday withdrew their candidatures. However, the exact number of candidates in the withdrawal list could not be known as State Chief Election Commissioner’s control room did not provide details. The candidates include four from Manipur State Congress Part (MSCP), one NCP and six Independents.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/5-sitting-mlasdrop-out-of-race/

Workshops call for prudent voting

IMPHAL , January 14: “To be anti-India or pro- India is not the issue. It… more »

IMPHAL , January 14: “To be anti-India or pro- India is not the issue. It is time for us to be pro-Manipur, AFSPA is not doing anything good for Manipur, let us fight it”, Professor Bimol Akoijam of JNU exclaimed at a one day Political Convention on AFSPA held at Hotel Classic today.

In keeping with the code of conduct, the IFP is not reporting statements by the representatives of the political parties.

Another one day consultation workshop on the theme “Your Vote is Your Future was today held at hotel Kristina organised by the United NGOs Mission-DN-Imphal east Network (UNM-DN-I/E Network).

During the workshop chairman of the (UNM-DN-I/E Network) Themthing Ruvanaro, and consultants (UNM-DN-I/E Network) OJ Meitei were on the dyes as moderator and spokesperson.

During the workshop spokesperson of varous civil society organisations deliberated on the developments in the state and urged all to keep the welfare of the future generation in mind.

The workshop was participated by prominent persons including civil organization, political party workers, social workers, and various NGOs etc.

Continuing on his key note address, Akoijam dwelled on the problems of the act; stating that India is the only democratic country which uses military might on a regular basis as part ofstate administration. “Using the army as part of administration is unacceptable, army is used during times of war”, he said. Further, the oldest democracy, the United Statesdo not endorse it. All otherpreventive laws; TADA, MOCOCA, POTA, does not bring the military in the civil authority and AFSPA cannot be implemented as an excuse for law and order.

He further stated that the constituent assembly of India discussed and expressed serious concerns about the extent and impacts of using military in the internal affairs of the country. Citing points on the Supreme Court of India judgment on AFSPA, he said that it must be examined carefully to raise the right questions.

He mentioned that the Supreme Court examined only the constitutionality of the Act ,whether or not  the Parliament has the authority to legislate such an Act. The SC judgment while upholding the constitutionality of the Act pressed on temporary use of military and which is required to be reviewed every six months.He questioned then, why in Manipur the Act has been used as part of civil  administration over the last 40 years.

He pointed out that the SC judgment that the ‘disturbed condition’ which allows the army  to operate with legal impunity is not related with ‘armed rebellion’. Bimol questioned why AFSPA is being implemented here when there is no armed rebellion.

Section 3 in AFSPA empowers the Governor or Central Government to declare a part or the whole state as a ‘disturbed area’ and that, all extraordinary laws passed by the Government of  India has clear definitions.

“If one asks what is the definition of a disturbed area, then the simple answer the SC gives is that Government of India and its people defines disturbed areas”. Bimol stated that this is a clear case of the Central Government refusing to accept and not recognize the fact that thestate has political issues with the Union of India. “Decision of taking a life is taken by a man with a gun, this is simply not acceptable”, he said.

The professor mentioned the need for the public to introspect into the woes that the Manipuri society is facing today and that, the public also is responsible for its own predicament. He appealed that every individual needs to exercise his or her democratic rights and to choose the right candidate in the upcoming election.

The convention was also attended by delegates from all political parties including the  BJP, MPP, Trinamool Congress, NCP, CPI, RJD, JD(S), CPI (M), MSCP of the state except for the INC.

The delegates also voiced firm opposition against the draconian Act and gave assurances that the party manifestos will endorse the scrapping of the AFSPA.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/workshops-call-for-prudent-voting/

CorCom releases list of Cong workers, police seize document

IMPHAL, January 14: Coming out strongly against congress workers, the CorCom have listed several names… more »

The Imphal West CDOs conducting search operationS in connection with the forth-coming general election at Thangal Bazar area.

IMPHAL, January 14: Coming out strongly against congress workers, the CorCom have listed several names which encompasses three assembly constituencies of the state,i.e. Thoubal a/c, Sugnu a/c and Heingang a/c.

A press release by CorCom detailing the credentials of the Congress workers of the three constituencies, 192 workers of Thoubal which is the Chief Minister O Ibobi’s constituency,138 of Heingang which is of minister N Biren Singh and 50 persons from Sugnu of works minister K Ranjit Singh was released to the press for publication.

However, policer got the wind of it and a team of policement visited newspaper offices the press to prevent the publication of the list.

The IFP’s copy of the press release was also seized by the policemen.

The said police team also intimated that the list of Congress candidates have been confiscated from other media houses and should not be published as it would amount to a breach of law.

It may be recalled the CorCom swore to dislodge the Congress from state power and has been doing everything to prevent Congress candidates from campaigning.

It had also issued stern warning yesterday that it would even award capital punishment to Congress workers who do not heed the committee’s warning.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/corcom-releases-list-of-cong-workers-police-seize-document/

Rally held to urge people to vote prudently

IMPHAL January 13: Under theme’s “People’s campaign for assembly election deciding our destiny” today a… more »

IMPHAL January 13: Under theme’s “People’s campaign for assembly election deciding our destiny” today a mass rally under the banner “Towards Public Issue Bases Election Vote for Life with Dignity and a Resurgent Manipur” was organized by the USER Manipur.

Speaking to media person the convener, B. Deben of the rally, disclosed that the rally was organizing as part of an awareness programme to awaken the people of the state, and to demand the general public to vote the right persons for Manipur development.

He further said that “the well being and life with dignity of the individuals as well as the collective are results of a well governed and administered state. In order words, a healthy society is a well-governed and administered one”.

He said this rally thus is also a part for demanding to establishment of institutional and public accountability against the corruption, fiscal management and criminal and extrajudicial violence, and on against the development issue on collapsing education, dismal electricity and water supplies, lack of basic infrastructure, developmental disparities in both hill and valley areas, and unemployment issue in the state.

And further said time has came to awake and struggle against the armed conflict, communal politics, and other thing which are affected in the daily life of the general public in Manipur.

And lastly mentioned that, we the USER Manipur further urged the general public to vote the party who will works for a better education system and life in Manipur in the forthcoming government he added.  

The rally was started from Kwakeithel and ended at Keishampat junction.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/rally-held-to-urge-people-to-vote-prudently/