Tag: Top Stories

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/

IMPHAL, Jan 13: The election department has fixed the final official figure of the valid nomination papers at 289 candidates following the rejecting of one more nomination paper of another Independent candidate Moirangthem Totomsana from 33-Heirok A/C during the scrutiny held today by the ROs and subsequent withdrawal of nomination paper by an Independent candidate Kongkham Tomba Singh of 23-Mayang Imphal A/C today.

Nomination papers of seven candidates were rejected by concerned Returning Officers yesterday during the first day of scrutiny.

As per the official figure received from the state election department, a total of 289 nominations filed by different candidates including 16 female candidates from different Assembly Constituencies were considered valid by the respective ROs.

Due to some technical problems during the process of the scrutiny of the nomination papers of candidates at various offices of ROs yesterday, the process scrutiny of some of candidates have continued till today during which the nomination paper filed by the Independent candidate M. Totomsana from Heirok AC was rejected.

As per the official figure issued by the state election department all nominations papers of seven candidates, in 1-Khundrakpam A/C, nominations papers of five candidates in 2-Heingang A/C,  nomination papers of four candidates in 3-Khurai A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 8-Lmlai A/C, nomination papers of eight candidates in 4-Kshetrigao A/C, nominations papers of five candidates in 5-Thongju A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 4- Yaiskul A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 15-Wangkhei A/C of the Imphal East district.

Most the nomination papers of five candidates in 9-Thangmeiband A/C, nomination papers of seven candidates in 10-Uripok A/C, nomination papers of five candidates in 11-Sagolband A/C,  nomination papers of six candidates in 12-Keishamthong A/C,  nomination papers of three candidates in 13-Singjamei A/C,  nomination papers of four candidates in 16-Sekmai (SC) A/C, nomination papers of six candidates in 17-Lamshang A/C, nomination papers of  four candidates in 18-Konthoujam A/C,  nomination papers of five candidates in 19-Patsoi A/C,  nomination papers of six candidates in 20-Langthabal A/C,  nomination papers of five candidates in 21-Naoriya Pankhanglakpa A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 22-Wangoi A/C and nomination papers of five candidates in 23-Mayang Imphal ACs under the Imphal West district were also found valid during the scrutiny today.

For Tamenglong district, nominations of papers of three candidates each in 54-Nungba, 53-Tamenglong and four candidates in 52-Tamei A/C were also found valid during the scrutiny today conducted at DC office Tamenglong.

But for the Churachandpur district, nomination of five candidates in 55-Tipaimukh A/C, nomination papers of six candidates each in 56-Thanlon, 57-Henglep, 59-Saikot and 60 Saikot along with the nomination papers of five candidates in 58-Churachandpur A/C were confirmed valid during the scrutiny today.

Besides, for Chandel district nomination papers of eight candidates in 41-Chandel A/C and nomination papers of six candidates in 42-Tengnoupal A/C were also confirmed valid during the scrutiny.

All 16 candidates who have file their nominations papers for Ukhrul district which includes five candidates from 43-Phungyar A/C, seven candidates from 44-Ukhrul A/C and four candidates from 45-Chingai A/C were also found valid during the scrutiny today.

The nomination papers of all 21 candidates who have filed their nominations papers from different Assembly segments of the Senapati district were also found valid during the scrutiny today, which includes four nomination papers of four candidates in 46-Saikul, nomination papers of five candidates in 50-Kangpokpi, nomination papers of four candidates in 51-Saitu A/C, nomination papers of three candidates in 48-Mao A/C , nomination papers of two candidates in 47-Karong and nomination papers of three candidates in 49-Tadubi Assembly constituency, the official source added.

The numbers of candidates is still expected to drop as there are possibilities of some more candidates withdrawing their nomination paper on the last day of the withdrawal of the nomination paper tomorrow, the source added.


Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/nominations-papers-of-289-candidates-including-16-female-officially-finalised-as-valid/

IMPHAL, Jan 13: The election department has fixed the final official figure of the valid nomination papers at 289 candidates following the rejecting of one more nomination paper of another Independent candidate Moirangthem Totomsana from 33-Heirok A/C during the scrutiny held today by the ROs and subsequent withdrawal of nomination paper by an Independent candidate Kongkham Tomba Singh of 23-Mayang Imphal A/C today.

Nomination papers of seven candidates were rejected by concerned Returning Officers yesterday during the first day of scrutiny.

As per the official figure received from the state election department, a total of 289 nominations filed by different candidates including 16 female candidates from different Assembly Constituencies were considered valid by the respective ROs.

Due to some technical problems during the process of the scrutiny of the nomination papers of candidates at various offices of ROs yesterday, the process scrutiny of some of candidates have continued till today during which the nomination paper filed by the Independent candidate M. Totomsana from Heirok AC was rejected.

As per the official figure issued by the state election department all nominations papers of seven candidates, in 1-Khundrakpam A/C, nominations papers of five candidates in 2-Heingang A/C,  nomination papers of four candidates in 3-Khurai A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 8-Lmlai A/C, nomination papers of eight candidates in 4-Kshetrigao A/C, nominations papers of five candidates in 5-Thongju A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 4- Yaiskul A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 15-Wangkhei A/C of the Imphal East district.

Most the nomination papers of five candidates in 9-Thangmeiband A/C, nomination papers of seven candidates in 10-Uripok A/C, nomination papers of five candidates in 11-Sagolband A/C,  nomination papers of six candidates in 12-Keishamthong A/C,  nomination papers of three candidates in 13-Singjamei A/C,  nomination papers of four candidates in 16-Sekmai (SC) A/C, nomination papers of six candidates in 17-Lamshang A/C, nomination papers of  four candidates in 18-Konthoujam A/C,  nomination papers of five candidates in 19-Patsoi A/C,  nomination papers of six candidates in 20-Langthabal A/C,  nomination papers of five candidates in 21-Naoriya Pankhanglakpa A/C, nomination papers of four candidates in 22-Wangoi A/C and nomination papers of five candidates in 23-Mayang Imphal ACs under the Imphal West district were also found valid during the scrutiny today.

For Tamenglong district, nominations of papers of three candidates each in 54-Nungba, 53-Tamenglong and four candidates in 52-Tamei A/C were also found valid during the scrutiny today conducted at DC office Tamenglong.

But for the Churachandpur district, nomination of five candidates in 55-Tipaimukh A/C, nomination papers of six candidates each in 56-Thanlon, 57-Henglep, 59-Saikot and 60 Saikot along with the nomination papers of five candidates in 58-Churachandpur A/C were confirmed valid during the scrutiny today.

Besides, for Chandel district nomination papers of eight candidates in 41-Chandel A/C and nomination papers of six candidates in 42-Tengnoupal A/C were also confirmed valid during the scrutiny.

All 16 candidates who have file their nominations papers for Ukhrul district which includes five candidates from 43-Phungyar A/C, seven candidates from 44-Ukhrul A/C and four candidates from 45-Chingai A/C were also found valid during the scrutiny today.

The nomination papers of all 21 candidates who have filed their nominations papers from different Assembly segments of the Senapati district were also found valid during the scrutiny today, which includes four nomination papers of four candidates in 46-Saikul, nomination papers of five candidates in 50-Kangpokpi, nomination papers of four candidates in 51-Saitu A/C, nomination papers of three candidates in 48-Mao A/C , nomination papers of two candidates in 47-Karong and nomination papers of three candidates in 49-Tadubi Assembly constituency, the official source added.

The numbers of candidates is still expected to drop as there are possibilities of some more candidates withdrawing their nomination paper on the last day of the withdrawal of the nomination paper tomorrow, the source added.


Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/nominations-papers-of-289-candidates-including-16-female-officially-finalised-as-valid/

IMPHAL, January 13: The CorCom which has been carrying out attacks on Congress workers have further warned that the individuals who are still actively working for the Congress, involved in opening campaign booths or in distributing money to the public, going for house campaigns, becoming polling agents for the Congress party etc, will be given capital punishment. Womenfolk in the guise of Meira Paibes, who are guarding the Congress candidates should refrain immediately it further warned.

A release by the umbrella organization further stated that the public should not be in proximity with those individuals rallying for the Congress. Those involved in protesting the activities of the CorCom will be closely monitored, it said.

CorCom also warned that no political party should form any pre-poll or post-poll alliance with the Congress.

If left unheeded, the said political party will be awarded the same treatment meted to the Congress at present.

The imposition on the party is carried out as the Congress is working against the interest of the public and the revolution for independence. It is immaterial if the election is carried out or who wins the election it said.

But, if the CorCom is defied, penalty will be awarded regardless of whether it is before or after the election, it further warned.

It said it should be known by the public that the Congress government or the state CM Okram Ibobi has done nothing worthwhile for the development of the state.

Both the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister are “Fathers of the Memorandum of Understanding”, many understandings have been signed between them and the public but none have been carried out practicality and it shows the irresponsibility of the state government”, it said.

It said that under its governance, wanton killings have been taking place and the public knows the fact.

Leave alone innocent persons, the Advocate General of the state had also been shot and there was no justice carried out. The son of a minster killed an innocent boy but was later released on bail it further said. Such actions translate that many murders and random killings will be seen if the Congress remains in power.

During its tenure, the influx of migrants have been left unchecked and the ratio of migrants to locals have risen to one third it said.

Ibobi instituted a crisis management committee and have given a free hand to non locals in entering and residing in the state, it charged.

Hurling allegations against the state governance, it questioned what positive steps the state government and the centre took when the state was besieged by demands made by other ethnic communities of the state? The public was held at ransom for more than a hundred days of economic blockade and even the visiting Home Minister P Chidambaram failed to address the issue during his visit during those days, it said.

The Congress government has left the education sector to the dogs and the human resources have not been developed. It should be known by the public that the state government have kept the public under its heel. The workings of the Congress clearly indicate that in cahoots with the centre, the state is subjugated under a colonial yoke, it concluded.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/corcom-warns-of-capital-punishment-to-congress-workers/

IMPHAL, January 13: The CorCom which has been carrying out attacks on Congress workers have further warned that the individuals who are still actively working for the Congress, involved in opening campaign booths or in distributing money to the public, going for house campaigns, becoming polling agents for the Congress party etc, will be given capital punishment. Womenfolk in the guise of Meira Paibes, who are guarding the Congress candidates should refrain immediately it further warned.

A release by the umbrella organization further stated that the public should not be in proximity with those individuals rallying for the Congress. Those involved in protesting the activities of the CorCom will be closely monitored, it said.

CorCom also warned that no political party should form any pre-poll or post-poll alliance with the Congress.

If left unheeded, the said political party will be awarded the same treatment meted to the Congress at present.

The imposition on the party is carried out as the Congress is working against the interest of the public and the revolution for independence. It is immaterial if the election is carried out or who wins the election it said.

But, if the CorCom is defied, penalty will be awarded regardless of whether it is before or after the election, it further warned.

It said it should be known by the public that the Congress government or the state CM Okram Ibobi has done nothing worthwhile for the development of the state.

Both the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister are “Fathers of the Memorandum of Understanding”, many understandings have been signed between them and the public but none have been carried out practicality and it shows the irresponsibility of the state government”, it said.

It said that under its governance, wanton killings have been taking place and the public knows the fact.

Leave alone innocent persons, the Advocate General of the state had also been shot and there was no justice carried out. The son of a minster killed an innocent boy but was later released on bail it further said. Such actions translate that many murders and random killings will be seen if the Congress remains in power.

During its tenure, the influx of migrants have been left unchecked and the ratio of migrants to locals have risen to one third it said.

Ibobi instituted a crisis management committee and have given a free hand to non locals in entering and residing in the state, it charged.

Hurling allegations against the state governance, it questioned what positive steps the state government and the centre took when the state was besieged by demands made by other ethnic communities of the state? The public was held at ransom for more than a hundred days of economic blockade and even the visiting Home Minister P Chidambaram failed to address the issue during his visit during those days, it said.

The Congress government has left the education sector to the dogs and the human resources have not been developed. It should be known by the public that the state government have kept the public under its heel. The workings of the Congress clearly indicate that in cahoots with the centre, the state is subjugated under a colonial yoke, it concluded.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/corcom-warns-of-capital-punishment-to-congress-workers/

NEW DELHI, January 12(agencies): Language has ceased to be a wall in Indian visual literature. In 1910, when Rabindranath Tagore wrote the “King of the Dark Chamber” and it appeared on stage a year later in Santiniketan on his 50th birthday, little did he know that one day it would jump the regional language divide to render itself in Manipuri – sans subtitles.

Acclaimed director Ratan Thiyam`s new production that premiered on the opening day of the 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav this week is a strange reinterpretation of Tagore`s classic play about his search for the divine within his inner cell of darkness.

It pushes the ongoing experiment of mainstream Indian theatre with the vernacular idiom and the viewer`s natural instinct for drama to the farthest frontier – where the divides blur on stage.

“Language is important in theatre… it differs according to space because the space itself has no language. Subtitles have become a ticklish problem we are facing around the world. If we put subtitles and if you read the text, it takes away from the drama because the audience concentrates on the text. Sub-titles should be done carefully scene-wise,” Thiyam told IANS.

“One can put a few lines to convey the mood but should never reveal the idea of a drama in a subtitle,” Thiyam said.

Thiyam`s production, adapted and pruned to fit the 1 hour and 30 minute slot, comes as the story of a woman`s battle with darkness and her redemption into inner light when she gives in to the joy of surrendering to the “ugly” – and finds solace in its inherent horror.

At the centre of Thiyam`s play are four major characters – queen Sudarshana, her maid Surangama, the king and his chief courtier. A motley cast of smaller characters adds to the layers which are played out in three primary tiers – that of the queen and her maid, the king and his men and a posse of Manipuri folk dancers and musicians who alternate the scenes in a set sequence.

The king in Thiyam`s adaptation can be accessed in the dark chamber because he spurns light. The performance begins with Queen Sudarshana`s anguished search for light in the chamber of darkness that the king has created for her in the subterranean depths. The king – a personification of darkness – promises that the queen should be able to identify him on the spring full moon when he will knock on her dark chamber. And only then will they meet as one.

The narrative from here on twists and turns through paths of blood, treachery and conflicts till the queen and her dark lord unite. In the final act, the queen cries for the sun as the king embraces her in his inky folds. In that overriding darkness, she shines like a deity bathed in her inner golden light – a diva of the underworld.

What probably lifts the play from the mundane is its use of the Manipuri language that is at once folksy, harsh on the uninitiated ear, anguished and yet appealing in its earthy lyricism. The absence of English or Hindi subtitles keeps the viewer hooked to the action on stage with twice the amount of concentration simply to decipher the narrative. At the end of 90 minutes, the play inspires in the viewer a desire to learn the unknown – in this case the colourful “bhasa or vernacular” arts of India.

The use of Manipuri classical dance movements, folk traditions, contemporary dance and local attires – in a screaming palette of saffron, red, yellow, golden and black – create a gala on stage.

“This is a complex psychological play and yet very contemporary. When we look at the concept of globalisation and the technological development, there has to be a spiritual balance between what we do technologically and our meaningful endeavours,” Thiyam said.

Tagore had tried to address this divide for many years till his death. His plays are very meaningful and relevant to all ages, the director said.

“The King of Dark Chambers” – first published in English in 1914 – was one of the few of Tagore`s plays to corner global space because of its spiritual universality, potential for visual drama and nuanced plot.

In 1961, American music veteran Harold Leventhal co-produced it as a dramatic theatrical work for Broadway. It played for eight months to favourable reviews for its innovative blend of traditional and the modern.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/scaling-language-wall-with-tagore-and-thiyams-theatre/

IMPHAL, Jan 12: With nearing of the poll for the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly election of the state which is scheduled to be held on January 28, the election observers have started arriving into the state and started their respective duties.

The election observer who arrived the state capital includes RK Goswami, Expenditure observe for all Assembly Constituencies,  Arvind Agarwal general observer for Lilong, Thoubal and Wangkhem Assembly Constituencies,  Tahang Taggu, general observer of Wabagai, Kakching, Hiyanglam and Sugunu Assembly Constituencies.

Besides, AP Siddique police observer of all assembly constituencies and three income tax officers D Tisso, L Ramcharan and Gilbert Sohtum were also arrived the state capital this morning to conduct their respective duties as an observers in connection with the ensuing general election of the state.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/seven-election-observers-arrives-in-state-capital/

By Paojel Chaoba
IMPHAL, January 11: Post the election code of conduct which has been imposed in the state since December 24, 2011, which deprives the sitting MLAs of their primary legislative powers; the status quo will remain in force till March 6,2012 on which the date for poll results will be announced.

The 10th Manipur Assembly election is scheduled for January 28 and the counting will be conducted on March 6.

The gap of 37 days encompassing the whole of the month of February is the longest waiting time for announcement of poll results in the history of any assembly election conducted in the state so far. The date has been fixed to coincide with the poll result announcement of Uttarkhand, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. It is also the first time that the counting for all constituencies will be held and announced on a single day.

The Chief Electoral Officer PC Lawmkunga while talking to the IFP in this respect stated that the administrative power of the government remains as it is; even though the election code of conduct prohibits MLAs from exercising their legislative powers.

Detailing on the matter, the CEO confirmed that the term for the SPF government expires on March 15, 2012 as the second tenure of the government began on March, 2007 which encompasses a term of five administrative years. “The code of conduct will be effective till the announcement of the poll results, whereas the state administration will remain as it is, till the completion of the SPF term”. 

Lawmkunga further said that the state government can make payment for the actual completed works; can promote officials by convening DPC and fill regular post vacancies due to retirement; deputation can be carried out and individuals can be appointed on ‘compassionate’ grounds.

The state administration is also able to call and finalize tenders of routine nature.

What the government cannot do is, the legislators cannot inaugurate any developmental projects nor use government vehicles aside from going to their respective offices, it cannot publish any booklet indicating development of any government departments.

It cannot sanction grants from any consumer welfare funds or issue sanction orders which are out of turn/PCO/telephone without approval of the ECI or the CEO.

Detailing on security measures, the CEO assured that EVM machines will be kept under tight security measures provided by the paramilitary forces during the long wait to the final counting.

He also added that 350 companies of various security forces will be deputed to cover all constituencies for smooth conduct of the polling process.

“For the first time, there will also be police observers so as to ensure that no muscle power or wayward activities comes to play from the state forces”, Lawmkunga added.

For effective transparency and to prevent proxy during the poll, each voter will be photographed inside the polling station with the ink mark on the finger and the result will be matched with the electoral list bank to identify the actual voter and the bogus one. If certain irregularities are found then there is all possibility of repoll at the particular polling station. He added that 2,357 cameras have been purchased at a cost of Rs 40 lacs for the purpose.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/state-government-has-administrative-but-no-legislative-powers-while-election-code-of-conduct-is-in-force/

IMPHAL, January 11: For the first time ever in the Northeast, a landmark discussion titled “Asia Rising: Implications for the World Economy” was organised at ITA Centre For Performing Arts , Machkhowa on Tuesday, January 10 with two outstanding figures as speakers, Nobel Laureate, Joseph Stiglitz, Professor of Economics at Columbia University and distinguished economist and author, Lord Meghnad Desai.

The afternoon warmed up as the remarkable discussion between the two leading economists began and they presented their views on the economic rise of the Asian giants, India and China and the roles these countries have to play in the global balance of economic power, stated a press release of the Tattva Creations.

Opening the discussion in response to Lord Meghnad Desai, Stiglitz said,“The failure of deregulation in the West led to so much of the problem. There has been growth, but a lot of people have not benefitted from the growth.”

He further said “What GDP doesn’t talk about is what happens to every citizen.” 

He emphasised the need for countries to preserve their natural resources. “Assam is lucky to still have a lot of natural resources. It can promote eco-tourism to a great extent” Stiglitz  also said.  With regard to sustaining the growth rate of India and China’s respective economies, Stiglitz said “There is still a very big gap in per capita income. The knowledge gap is closing very rapidly but there is still 20-30 years to go before the growth rate can be sustained.” Talking about the IMF, Stiglitz  significantly said “The IMF has changed to addressing issues of inequality. But rural economy does not find representation in IMF.”

Responding to a question on whether popular movements against governments across the world, and especially the crusade against corruption in India led by Anna Hazare was an indication that systems of governance need to change, Stiglitz said  “I think there is a serious need for change. Governments are not working as they should. And it’s not just corruption. There is a need to change policies and we need greater involvement of civil society towards bringing about changes.”

Commenting on the role of civil societies in an economy, Lord Meghnad Desai said, “I think civil society can play an active role in economics. They can pressurise the governments into framing policies for the betterment of the people.”

After this, the floor was open for interaction between the panellists and the audience. This is the first time that a talk show of this stature and significance has happened in Guwahati. There were students from across the Northeast attending the talk show which was a platform for them to interact with global opinion makers and understand the global responsibilities towards equity. The significant event was wrapped up with a vote of thanks by YFFP co-founder, Mr Gaurav Gogoi.   

Gracing the occasion as chief guest was the Chief Minister of Assam, Tarun Gogoi.  Joining them on the event was also Anya Stiglitz and Dolly Gogoi, the release added.  

At the very onset of the event, Chief Minister, STarun Gogoi and his wife, Dolly Gogoi felicitated Mr and Mrs Stiglitz and Lord Desai after which Shantanu Thakur, secretary, Sports & Youth Welfare Department, Assam and Cultural Affairs (addl) read out the citation for Prof Stiglitz and Lord Desai on behalf of the Chief Minister of Assam.

Meanwhile, addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said, “This is a great moment for us all to have these two renowned economists in our midst, and to discuss the emergence of the two powers –India and China.  I feel we in Assam are better off than America as far as the condition of the economy is concerned. We need globalization, but at the same time we need localization. I feel that economics concerns the poor and the downtrodden.  Everywhere in the world there is conflict between the rich and the poor. Mahatma Gandhi had said, “There is enough to meet the demands but not enough for man’s greed”.

Present on the occasion was another distinguished guest, Ranjit Barthakur, Investment Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Assam, the statement added.

Post this path breaking event in Guwahati, there was an exclusive media interaction with the distinguished panellists in the seminar hall of ITA, Machkhowa.

The event was organised by Youth Forum on Foreign Policy (YFFP) in association with Eclectic Times and the entire event was managed by Tattva Creations – Strategic Integrated Marketing Communications.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/serious-need-for-change-governments-are-not-working-as-they-should-nobel-laureate/

By Chitra Ahanthem
IMPHAL, January 11: In an interaction with IFP, Irom Sharmila who has been on an indefinite fast since November 2000 calling for the removal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act said that she derives great moral support from the people who write to her and send her their support. “When people write to me saying they are moved by my fast, it moves me greatly that they would take out time from their lives and write to me and express their solidarity with the people of Manipur. It is their support that keeps me going,” said Irom Sharmila. She was being produced at the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, at Lamphel today.

Irom Sharmila further went on to say that EKTA(unity), a resource center for women in Madurai in Tamil Nadu sent her a letter of support signed by 2118 people after taking up a campaign in which the group reached out to students and grassroots organizations demanding for the repeal of the Armed Forces Powers Act. In the letter addressed to Irom Sharmila, which was handed to this reporter, representatives of EKTA said that their campaign was started in November, 2011 under which a handbill about the 11 year fast undertaken by Irom Sharmila was distributed. “We sincerely hope that the Government of India would take cognizance of the feelings expressed by people from all walks of life to repel this draconian act and retain the spirit of democracy in our country,” said the signed letter.

She also expressed her appreciation to the Student Christian Movement of India, based in Bangalore, which also sent in a letter of support of her demand for the removal of AFSPA.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/the-support-of-people-keeps-me-going-irom-sharmila/

IMPHAL, January 11: The Governor of Manipur, Gurbachan Jagat today inaugurated a five day long an international film festival on sports and performance, ‘the 2nd Re:Play 2012 Internesenal Film Kumhei at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipuri Dance Academy organized by the Manipur Film Development Corporation in association with Hun-tre! International Manipuri Projects.

Speaking at the inaugural function the Governor stated that Manipur which is rich in cultural heritage especially in dances needs to film our beautiful dances for posterity and for viewers in other parts of the country and world.

“Such festivals provide an opportunity to our film aficionados to witness good films produced in different parts of the globe and they can keep abreast of the international trends. Some of our film-makers had the opportunity to participate in various international film festivals but such people are few” the Governor expressed.

He further expressed his hope that the workshops will not be the end and the delegates will continue to interact with the resource persons in future.

The Governor further expressed that the two workshops which will be conducted during the festival: one on Documenting Dance with Yoshiko Chuma and another on Screenplay with Alexandra Viets make festival all the more important for Manipur.

He further expressed that the workshop will provide an opportunity to the local talents to pick up skills and added that the films shown during the festival will attract viewers who are starved of good films.

He further wished the foreign guests a good time in Manipur and that they carry back fond memories of the state.

The five day long festival will also feature various international films including Dance on camera festival, New York; Focus on Indonesia; Film festival Dokumenter, Yogjakarta.

The festival will also have workshops on films including the Filmmaker: Andibachtiar Yusuf; Dance workshop: Yoshiko CHuma and Screenwriting workshop: Alexandra Viets.

During the inaugural day of the international festival, Andibachtir Yusuf’s film ‘Romeo Juliet’ made its Indian premiere.

The second day of the festival will also feature the Indian premiere of ‘With: Dragons beget dragons’ directed by Ariani Dharmawan of Indonesia.

The closing day of the festival will have a performance by Yoshiko Chuma ‘A tribute to MK Binodini Devi’.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/local-talents-could-pick-up-skills-from-five-day-film-festival-governor/

from John K. Kaping
UKHRUL, January11: With the filing of nomination of the 10th Manipur Member of the Legislative Assembly Election 2012 coming to an end by 3:00pm at the Election Office of Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner office today, altogether 1,98,077 total electorates of Ukhrul district are waiting to decide the fate of the district`s three assembly constituency seats with overall 179 polling stations.

In the district, the 45-Chingai (ST) A/C has the highest number of electorates with a total voter of 74,965 with 17967 male voters and 19465 females; followed by 44-Ukhrul (ST) a/c with 34,718 and 36,129 male and female electorates respectively with the total figure of voters at 70,847.

43-Phungyar (ST) has a total figure of 52,265 voters with 26,009 male voters and 26,256 females voters.

The number of female voters outnumbered in the three constituencies of the district as per the latest Ukhrul Election Office 2012 Electoral Revise Edition by a margin of 3,725 voters in total figure. There are 97,176 male electorates 1,00901 female voters in the district.

And as per the official source from the Ukhrul Returning Officer`s (RO) Office the voting of votes during the election will be exercised at a total of 179 Polling stations where in 43-Phunghar (ST) has 61 Polling Stations, 44-Ukhrul (ST) A/C has 59  stations and that of the 45-Chingai (ST) A/C has 59 polling stations.

And till the filing of this report, the official source has disclosed that altogether 10 candidates have successfully filed their nomination papers officially at the Ukhrul Election Office under RO.

Somatai Shaiza fielded his candidature in 44-Ukhrul (ST) a/c with Trinamool Congress ticket, MK. Preshow 45-Phungyar (ST) a/c with INC ticket, Khashim Vashun 45-Chingai (ST) a/c IND, Victor Keishing 43- Phungyar (ST) a/c with INC ticket, Bontia Keishing of 43-Phungyar (ST) a/c with MSCP ticket, Aleng A. Shimray of 44-Ukhrul (ST) a/c with NCP, Honreikhui of 43-Phungyar (ST) a/c with NPF, Aleng Shimrah of Ukhrul-44(ST) a/c with MSCP, Samuel Risom of 44-Ukhrul NPF and Paul Muinao of 45-Chingai (ST) a/c with NPF ticket.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/198077-ukhrul-voters-await-january-28/

IMPHAL, January 10: Discovering the movement of UG cadres at Pallel Maning Wang Leikai, troops of 42 Assam Rifles of 26 Sector under HQ IGAR (S) launched operation  in the area and apprehended one PLA cadre on January 10, informed a PRO IGAR statement.

The statement has further identified the apprehendee as Khuraijam Khelendro alias Shanti,34, s/o Nand Kumar, r/o Pallel Maning Awang. One Chinese Hand grenade and three 9mm live rounds was recovered from the apprehendee.

The militant cadre alongwith the recoveries were handed over to Kakching Police Station, the stated added.

In yet another incident, troops of 18 SIKH of 9 Sector under HQ IGAR(South) launched operation at Ningombam and apprehended two KCP(City Meitei) cadres on January 10.

The statement has further identified the two apprehendees as Herojit alias Vicky (area cdr of Imphal west district), 27, s/o S Ibomcha, r/o Sangoibam Maning Leikai and Bablu alias Charies, 26, s/o Joy Kumar, r/o Sangoibam Moirang Leikai.

One .32 Pistol with magazine and two mobile phones with SIM Card was recovered from the apprehendees.

The cadres alongwith the recoveries were handed over to Singjemai Police station, the statement added.

The statement has also added that discovering the movement of foreigners at Pallel, troops of 27 Assam Rifles and 42 Assam Rifles  under HQ IGAR(South) launched operation in the area and apprehended six Myanmar nationals on January 9.

The apprehendees have been identified as Noor Rulamin, 32, s/o Noor Hakim, Md Yunusd, 22, s/o Md Yusuf, Md Ousman,16, s/o Mason, Md Issak,23, s/o Noor Hakim, Md Zaw Kaw Raya,25, s/o Noor Alam and Abdul Hamid, 30, s/o Havez Ahmed.

All apprehendees were handed over to Kakching Police Station, the statement added.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/ar-apprehends-three-militant-cadres-along-with-arms/

IMPHAL, January 7: The Zeliangrong United Front has appealed to all concern including political parties and militant groups to shun used of force and threats to pressurise the people to vote for them during the ensuing election in the state. The outfit has further wished the people of the state in general and the Zeliangrong community in particular with the coming of the Gaan-Ngai festival.

This was informed by secretary in charge, ZUF A Ramroi during a press briefing somewhere in Tamenglong district this evening held in connection with the handing over of one NSCN (IM) cadre to the local Zeliangrong bodies today.

Further elaborating on the issue, he stated that the NSCN (IM) cadre was caught by the ZUF cadres from Awangkhun in Tamenglong district on January 1 at around 8:30pm.

He further identified the NSCN (IM) cadre as s/s sgt major Meikiurou Kamei alias Charlis, 40, s/o (late) Dinthiaklak of Awangkhun.

He added that Meikiurou was handed over to the local bodies after a strong appeal from the bodies. The local bodies had appeal to the ZUF to stop bloodshed in the new year amongst the Naga communities.

However, he added that had it been the NSCN (IM) that had caught a ZUF cadre, the NSCN (IM) would haved certainly killed the ZUF cadre.

The ZUF wants to bring unity amongst the different communities residing in the state, he added.

Chairman Zeliangrong Baudi, Manipur Thomas Kamei expressed that the Zeliangrong Baudi wants to bring peace and unity in the state.

He further welcomed the handing over of the NSCN (IM) cadre to the people.

The handing over was also attended by Zeliangrong Students’ Union Manipur chairman.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/zuf-hands-over-nscn-im-cadre-to-local-bodies-following-appeal-from-bodies/

IMPHAL, January 7: Imphal west district police under the supervision of addl SP (ops) Issak arrested two CorCom cadres from Thongju Part II yesterday at around 7:30pm.

Speaking to media persons, addl SP (ops) Issac informed that following the frequent attacks on Congress candidates and workers by CorCom, Imphal west district police under the guidance of SP intensified their daily frisking and checking by establishing strategic points and by putting more labour in collecting information.

He further informed the district police and the 9Sector AR have been conducting CI ops at Keishamthong, Singjamei, Yaiskul and Thongju and during one such operation at Thongju, the team arrested two individuals identified to be RPF/PLA cadres.

The two have been identified as s/s 2nd lt Athokpam Surchandra alias Ningthou alias Choathoi, 41, s/o A Kula of Thongju pt II and Laishram Imocha alais Ibungochouba, 45, s/o (late) Pushkor Singh of Singjamei Thongam Leikai.

He further informed that the two cadres are working under one s/s captain Koireng .

Surchandra further disclosed that the arms and ammunitions recovered from them were handed over to them by an unknown woman and man few weeks ago, the addl SP added.

He also disclosed that the weapons were handed over to them to be used in targeting the Congress candidates and workers as was the decision taken by the CorCom recently, the police officer informed.

The two were waiting for an opportunity to attack the Congress candidates and workers of Imphal area who had been listed out by the committee, the police officer added.

The police team further recovered one lathode gun, five lathode shells, two 9mm pistols and 259 live ammunitions, one Chinese hand grenade along with detonator, 32 numbers of .45 mm ammunitions and one empty case of lathode shell, he further informed the media persons.

Addl SP Issak further informed that Surchandra had recently returned to Imphal from Bangladesh about 15 days back in order to carry out the threats and attacks on Congress candidates and workers.

He further expressed that the police have been able to arrest the two with help from the general public.

Meanwhile, joint teams of Imphal east CDO and Imphal west CDO had arrested 10 cadres of the PREPAK (PRO) who were involved in lobbing grenades at the residences of Congress workers at Lairikyengbam leikai on December 12 and 13, 2011 and at Singjamei Mayengbam Leikai on January 4 and 5.

Speaking to media persons yesterday at the Imphal east police station, addl SP (ops) IE, Dr Ak Jhalajit Singh identified the individuals as Asem Moomon Singh, 41, s/o A Matum Singh og Langdum Makha Leikai (from his residence; recovered one Chinese hand grenade), Aranbam AbungSingh, 30 s/o A Chaoba of Langdum Maning Leikai (bailed out PLA; recovered one AK 47 with magazine and 8 live rounds); Kangabam Borsingh, 43, s/o (late) K Ibobi of Langdum Lairembi Leikai, Yenshembam Romeo Singh, 29, s/o (late) Y Thoiba of LangdumAwang Leikai (recovered one 9mmpistol mouser with magazine and four live rounds).

The other militant cadres have been identified as Mutum Warjit Singh alias Malemnganba, 22, s/o M Madhumangol Singh of keirao Lairembi Leikai (recovered one AK 56 with magazine an ten live rounds and four nos of demand letters of KCP signed by Malemnganba), Ningthoujam Itomba Singh, 44, s/o (late) N Selung Singh of Keirao Bitra Awing Leikai (recovered two Chinese Hand Grenades), Takhellambam Nobo Singh, 34, s/o T Iboton Singh of Sandrok Mayai Leikai (recovered one Maruti van with regd no MN 04A/5871), Yenshembam Romeo Singh, 42, s/o Y Angou of Khanarok Mayai Leikai, Haobikam Shivchandra Singh, 29, s/o H Yaima Singh of Bamon Kampu (recovered one Dell Laptop and HP Inkjet printer) and Louriyam (o) Thaba Devi w/o L Nganbi Singh of Keirao Khunou.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/imphal-west-police-nab-pla-cadres-along-with-huge-cache-of-arms-involved-in-attacks-on-congress/

IMPHAL, January 7: The State level Gaan Ngai festival was observed at two places in the state with organizers of both celebrations claiming their celebrations as State level.

Gaan Ngai festival was also observed at the BOAD with Governor of Manipur Gurbachan Jagat gracing the celebration as the chief guest while L.P. Gonmei IAS, principal Secretary, govt. of Manipur as chief guest and president of the festival.

Speaking during the celebration, the Governor stated that Gaan-Ngai marks the end of a year and heralds a new year. It is the biggest annual festival of the Zeliangrong community lasting for five days.

He further elaborated that the festival which literally means “Festival of Winter Season” is a festival paying homage to those souls who departed the year before and is also an occasion of worship, joy and merriment providing an opportunity not only to the Zeliangrong people but also to others to come together and work for our shared goal of ensuring peace and harmony in the society, setting aside all differences, said governor.

Further he appealed that “While celebrating Gaan-Ngai, we should resolve to follow the spiritual and moral values that the festival conveys to make the festival significant”.

Also he elaborated that every festival of a community or a group of people has its own and distinct character and message. The spirit of Gaan-Ngai festival is to disseminate the message of peace, friendship, brotherhood, compassion and forgiveness among the people not only of Manipur, but also to mankind, he said.

Meanwhile delivering his key note addressed, president of Zeliangrong Union (AMN) Amu Kamei said that Gaan-Ngai festival is believed to be as old as human culture and particularly agricultural life.

Further he said for thousands of years, the Zeliangrong people had been celebrating the Gaan-Ngai festival as an inseparable part of their traditional and customs, every year at their respective village level.

Meanwhile, the state level Gaan-Ngai Celebration Committee, Manipur under the Tingkao Rawang Chapriak Phom, TRCP (Assam, Manipur Nagaland) organized another celebration at Chinikon village, Senapati district today.

Speaking as chief guest, UCM president Yumnamcha Dilipkumar stated that the people of the State should preserve the indigenous religions of the state so as to bring peace, development and unity amongst the various communities residing in the state.

He stated that the indigenous people of the state have been divided by religion like Hinduism and Christianity. He further added that the advent of various religions from outside has created the Meitei-tribal divide.

He further informed that a true Kabui has his own indigenous religion and he cannot be identified with any other religion.

“It is time for the indigenous people to preserve our own religion and bring peace and unity amongst the communities of the state.

He further stated that the UCM will act in its level to bring the state observation of the Gaan-Ngai festival under a single organizer.

Poudongai Kamson, in his presidential speech expressed his heartfelt sorrow over the observation of the state level Gaan –Ngai at two places. He expressed that the TRCP has been demanding the declaration of Gaan-Ngai as a state holiday since 1976.

The first state level Gaan-Ngai festival was observed for a week at Ragailong in 1998 in the presence of then CM Nipamacha after his government assured the declaration of the festival as state holiday.

However it was only in the year 2003, when the then government declared Gaan-Ngai as state holiday and since then the TRCP has been organizing the state level Gaan-Ngai festival.

The main highlights of the observation were the sacrifice of a pig to examine its spleen for the prediction of the future of the people; obligation of the holy wine to the Tingkao Ragwang; shouting of Hoi and extraction of sacred fire which were followed by cultural dances.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/governor-calls-for-unity-setting-aside-all-differences-during-gaan-ngai-celebration/

IMPHAL, January 5: The Election Commission of India today instructed the neighbouring states of Assam, Nagaland and Mizoram to intensify their security preventive measures along their borders with the state of Manipur to prevent safe transit of armed militant cadres into the state and disturb the smooth conduct of the ensuing 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly election.

The instruction was given to officials of the three neighbouring states by the Election Commissioner of India during an inter-state coordination meeting held at the conference hall of the old secretariat at Imphal today.

The meeting was attended by DGPs, CEOs of Nagaland, Mizoram and CEO; and commissioner home of Assam, while the state of Manipur was represented by chief secretary, CEO and officials of the state home department.

Speaking to media persons during a press conference, the Election Commissioner of India announced that the neighbouring states should extend their full co-operation to Manipur in the successful conduct of the general election in the state by preventing militant cadres to infiltrate into the state through the inter-state boundaries.

During the said meeting, the officials from the neighbouring states had also officially assured full co-operation with their Manipur counterparts to stop militants from entering the state, he further informed.

Further according to the Election Commissioner of India, the officials had also given their official assurance to intensify their security preventive measures along their boundaries with Manipur.

The ECI has further intimated the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of defence to double the deployment of security forces along the porous international border between Manipur and Myanmar to prevent any unwanted trespassing along the porous border, he added.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/neighbouring-states-assure-security-cover-along-state-border-ahead-of-election/

IMPHAL, January 5: Grenade attacks at the residences of Congress offices and MLAs as well as candidates and workers of the party continued unabated as at least three bombs were hurled at the residential areas of Congress candidates and workers today.

In the first incident today, unidentified person suspected to be militants lobbed a hand-grenade at the residence of businessman Taorem Dipak, 41 s/o Thambal of Yumnam Leikai Nakrabam Leirak this morning around 5.30am. The bomb exploded however there were no reports of human casualties. Dipak is stated to be a Congress worker.

The bomb which was suspected to be hurled from outside Dipak’s residential wall exploded in the courtyard.

In connection with the bomb attack, residents of the area staged a sit-in-protest today and denounced the bomb attack at the residence of the local businessman.

In the meantime, another hand-grenade was also hurled at the residence of Sapam Ranjan located at Konthoujam. Ranjan is aspiring to be a Congress candidate in the upcoming 10th Manipur legislative assembly election and is the son of (late) Sapam Budhichandra, ex-Speaker of the Manipur legislative assembly.

The bomb exploded near the residential gate of Ranjan but there were human casualties.

In yet another bomb blast today, one IED was found planted near the Old Checkon bazar along Porompat DC road where there used to be a Congress office which has been shifted to another place.

According to police source, the IED was found planted on a small tree near the Old Checkon bazar just opposite to the rows of wooden shops.

As police suspect the bomb to be remotely controlled one, a special bomb squad of the Manipur Police was called in. later after the arrival of the bomb squad, the bomb was safely exploded at the spot around 7.11pm after vacating civilians from the area.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/attacks-on-congress-workers-continue-unabated/

IMPHAL, January 5: The Janata Dal (Secular), Manipur and its rival the Janata Dal United, Manipur have announced five candidates each for the ensuing 10th Manipur legislative assembly election today.

While, JDU announced its first list of five candidates with a press conference held today at its office located at Paona Bazar, Imphal, the JD(S) announced its candidates through a press statement.

Speaking to media persons, president of the JDU Manipur unit M Tombi Singh said the party is expecting to field at least 15 candidates in the ensuing state assembly election.

The candidates announced today were Md Abdul Jhabar for Jiribam, Linjalet Haokip for Chandel, H Simther for Phungyar, Padam Kharal for KPI and Semkholet Haokip for Saitu assembly constituency.

In the meantime, the candidates announced by the JD(S) Manipur are Sitara Begum for Kshetrigao, Khundongbam Ajit alias Ojit Singh for Keishamthong, Sapam Samungou Singh for Patsoi, K Binoy Meitei for Keirao and Chandramani Tarao for Tengoupal assembly constituency.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/candidates-announced/

IMPHAL, January 5: The proscribed KCP (MC), in a statement, has claimed responsibility of the shooting of Khwairakpam ongbi Jamuna of Ngairangbam on her thigh on January 4, 2012.

The KCP(MC) statement issued by its publicity officer  Loyalakpa said the task was performed by a section of the KCP(MC) under the command of revenue officer Nongdrenkhomba.

While clarifying that the outfit had never served any monetary demands to Pradhan of Yurembam Gram Panchayat namely Laishram Ongbi Chaobihal Devi, the KCP(MC) statement said the outfit wished to clarify regarding misunderstanding created amongst the public in the aftermath of the punishment given to Jamuna.

It said the outfit knew about huge amounts of money being misused by Pradhan of Yurembam Gram Panchayat L Chaobihal and the outfit had served repeated warnings to stop misuse of public money and asked to approached outfit. Instead of approaching the outfit, the Pradhan in question acted as reactionary and continued siphoning of huge amount of money under MGNREGS.

The outfit also alleged that some cadres of the outfit who had gone to hold talks with Pradhan Chaobihal sometime back were made to run amok and had nearly fallen in the hands of police commandos when one Khwairakpam Niti of Sagoltongba, who was at the residence of Chaobihal on the day informed police. Luckily, the cadres managed to flee from the area, the statement said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/01/kcpmc-claims-responsibility-for-jamuna-shooting/