`Women bear brunt of underdevelopment`

IMPHAL, Dec 10: The chairperson of the Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW), Dr. Ch. Jamini Devi has said that underdevelopment is a stumbling block in the path of women`s empowerment in the state of Manipur.

She made this statement while addressing the gathering at the third foundation day of the Manipur State Commission for Women held today at Lamphelpat.

Speaking at the function, Jamini further made the observation that the women of Manipur are deprived of their primary rights despite of continuous efforts made by the commission to eradicate this social stigma.

She also stated that the commission exists only for examining cases and making recommendations to the concerned authority for effective implementation of women`s rights. She also said justice can be delivered only through law courts.

Appealing people to render cooperation and support to the commission for working effectively for the real cause of the oppressed women in the society, Jamini call for strengthening the functions of MSCW.

Member of MSCW, L. Gangte also stated that the commission has been working endlessly for the upliftment of the status of women in the state for the last three years and it will try to resolve every problem of women in the years to come.

Women should try to be self-reliant and shall avoid too much dependence on their male counterparts, she observed adding women should move forward to join the revolution for a new society free from gender biases.

The foundation day was also attended by Laaljan Begum, member MSCW, Jodhachandra Sanasam and other women rights activists of the state.

'75% of 'encounter' victims in Manipur were newly married men'

Imphal, December 10 2009: Magisterial Inquiry must invariably be held in all cases of dead which occur in the course of police action, rights activists demanded speaking at the observation functions of the International Human Rights Day which many NGOs observed across the state Thursday like in other parts of the globe.

Holding of seminars, discussions on the ending the conflict situation in the state which resulted in the large scale violation of human rights, reading out of message of UN secretary-general Ban Ki-moon on the occasion and statement of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay marked the observation functions.

The structural violence emerging out of the creation of social and political structures that had deprived the rights of indigenous people of Manipur in terms of safety, respect, participation, economy, identity and culture, considered to be the base for the existing conflict, some suggest.

The controversial merger agreement and imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) were also observed as origin of the conflict situation in the state which put Manipur into a trouble state.

Executive director of Human Rights Initiative, Manipur, Lc Jinine Meetei in his key note address to an observation function at State Guest House, Imphal observed that from late 2005 onwards, Manipur undergoes increasing volume of alleged encounter deaths particularly by combined force of government armed/paramilitary forces and Manipur police commandos.

In the year 2008, 303 persons and in the year 2009 till November 262 persons were killed, he counted observing that about 85 percent of killed persons were of the age ranging from 16 to 30 years boys and newly married men.

Based on the survey report of the Human Rights Initiative, Manipur, 75 percent of the victims of encounter are recently married to and young fathers, leaving one kid or two.

"Most of their survived children are of aged about 6 months to 6 years, many a married wives are survived getting pregnant at the time their husbands are killed," he said.

The government of India and Manipur infringes the civil and political rights as well as the economic, social and cultural rights mentioned in Universal Declaration of Human Rights on many occasions, he alleged.

Over and above, destruction of evidence of the encounter deaths/extrajudicial executions due to improper deposition of the dead bodies in the Regional Institution of Medical Sciences (RIMS) mortuary, the autopsy procedure that is noncompliance with the custodial killings, quick disposed off the body, non-conduction of forensic examination, etc. have been questioned in his speech.

6 persons honoured with awards & fellowships Governor calls for preservation of culture

Imphal, December 09 2009: Manipur State Kala Akademi today presented Akademi awards 2008 to 16 distinguished personalities in the fields of art, culture and literature at a solemn function held at Kangla hall here.

State Governor, Gurbachan Jagat graced the function as chief guest.

Akademi fellowships were conferred on Ningthemmayum ongbi Mangi Shija and Dr Moirangthem Kriti, while Manipur State Kala Akademi awards (dance) for the year 2008 were conferred on Nongthonbam Amusana and Lukram Manglembi, Kshetrimayum Godhador and Ngangom Ngoubi (music).

Theatre award went to Ningombam Jadumani, Shumang Leala award to Nandeibam Iboyaima, Khongjom Parba to Maibam Tomba, folk music to Pukhrambam Ningol Thoinu, Thang-ta to Sanjenbam Yaima, Tribal culture to Darenglian Aimol and Lanthunglan Guite, literature award to Kshetrimayum Bira and fine art to Khundongbam Ojit and Vareimi Shinglai.

Governor Gurbachan Jagat presenting Akademi award to a distinguished personality, Commissioner, Art and Culture, P Bharat looks on

The award carries cash amount of Rs 7000, a citation and a shawl each.

Commissioner (Art & Culture) P Bhorot presided over the fellowship and award distribution function.

Delivering his address as chief guest, Governor, Gurbachan Jagat lauded the effort of the Akademi to present awards and fellows to the people working in the fields of dance, music, theatre, shumang leela, other forms of art, thang-ta, literature, tribal culture and fine arts in recognition to their outstanding services in their respective fields.

"Art and culture is a unifying force and a catalyst to bring peace and harmony amongst the people, which is required most today in a society like ours," the Governor observed stressing the need for preservation and promotion.

The effort of the Akademy will help a lot in preserving and promoting the rare and unique cultural heritage of the state apart from encouraging the efforts of individual scholars and artistes.

"No doubt, such efforts of the Akademi have become significant and provided requisite recognition to the outstanding scholars and artistes, for which, I complement the MSKA," Gurbachan.

The Governor also praised the Akademi on knowing that 348 awards in different in different fields of arts and culture by the Akademi and honoured 64 persons as fellows, receiving national Akademi awards by 54 personality of the state by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi.

Fifty-three Manipuri writers have so been honoured with Sahitya Akademi Awards including 19 for translation works by the Sahitya Akademi New Delhi and one with Lalit Akademi, he revealed expressing proud of these achievements.

Manipur is in fact recognized in not only in India but also in other parts of the world by its rich cultural heritage.

The state of Manipur and its people have been identified by its distinct and rich cultural tradition, the governor said.

Manipur set for facelift

Guwahati/Imphal, Dec. 9: With the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) awarding the 2nd National Youth Games to Manipur Olympic Association (MOA) in 2011, Imphal is all set to build new infrastructure to accommodate some new disciplines.

Confirming that the Games were awarded to Manipur during the IOA annual general meeting in New Delhi vide a unanimous resolution on Monday, MOA general secretary L. Manglem said the dates were yet to be fixed but Imphal was ready to host the mega event.

The 1st National Youth Games, awarded to Bangalore, which would see nearly 6,000 athletes in the under-18 age group from all over India rubbing shoulders, is yet to be held.

Altogether 32 disciplines, including a few Asian Games disciplines like sepak takraw, wushu and Commonwealth Games disciplines like lawn bowls will be held.

“We have our infrastructure ready from the 5th National Games held in Imphal in 1999. What we need now is creation of some new infrastructure to accommodate the new Olympic charter disciplines like lawn bowls and more indoor stadiums to accommodate certain disciplines like handball and sepak takraw, among others, which have been shifted indoors nowadays. I think we have enough time to develop the infrastructure,” Manglem told The Telegraph over phone from Delhi.

Referring to the accommodation of the players and the technical officials, he said they could be accommodated at the National Games Village at Langol. The IOA officials could be given rooms at luxury hotels in Imphal, he added.

“Besides, our Olympic Bhawan, which is being constructed, will also be ready by next year. It will have enough VIP accommodation facilities,” Manglem added.

The Olympic Bhawan at the Khuman Lampak Sports Complex is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 4.82 crore and is set to be completed in March next year.

Manipur Human Rights Commission on Ukhrul firing

Imphal | December 9 : Demanding the facts of the alleged indiscriminate firing by the 34 Assam Rifles E. Company in the evening of December 4 at Kasom Khullen in Ukhrul district, Manipur, Ng. Nongyai and S. Gourachand Singh, members of the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) on Wednesday set a deadline to produce the reports of the enquiry by December 21.
It was demanded following the filing of complaint to the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) by the Kasom Khullen Sub-Division Development Association (KKSDDA), Ukhrul district.
It is worth mentioning that the incident took place in the evening of December 4 at Lungtorum/Khorupok village under Kasom Khullen police station leaving atleast two persons injured and several houses and buildings of the village damaged. The firing reportedly lasted till the morning of December 5.
While submitting the statement by the KKSDDA to the MHRC, it included the list of demands of providing of deserving compensation to the victims who were injured in the incident, to provide compensation for the damaged houses, building, to take up action against the guilty 34 AR E. Company personnel and to provide remedial measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. It also demanded to conduct spot enquiry at the earliest.
The KKSDDA also mentioned in the statement the damages caused by the 34 AR in the firing which included a primary school teacher’s quarter, a community hall, a guest house, an Anganwadi centre, a weaving centre, a pastor quarter, a church building and seven houses of the villages.

Colleagues continue sit-in to free engineer

File picture of meira paibis at a sit-in against the abduction of Manipur public health engineering department executive engineer Laishram Dhaballo in Imphal Imphal, Dec. 8: Functioning of the Manipur public health engineering department was affected for the second consecutive day today as the employees continued their sit-in demanding release of the their colleague abducted by a militant group a few days back. Laishram Dhaballo, an executive engineer of the department, was abducted on Saturday and the next day a militant group claimed responsibility over phone through a department official. The outfit is yet to disclose its motive to the department or the family of the hostage. The employees’ coordination committee, however, believes that the abduction has something to do with the department. Even if the officials of the department know the reason for the abduction they are not disclosing it to the media. Demanding the release of their colleague, the employees of the department suspended work and launched a sit-in at the gate of the head office at Khoyathong of Imphal city. The secretary of the coordination committee, N. Nanao reiterated the demand for the safe release of the hostage. He said the sit-in would continue until Dhaballo was released. Dhaballo’s family has also been mounting pressure on the department to secure the release of the engineer, an official source said. He added that efforts were on to establish contact with the abductors. Suspected militants also exploded a hand grenade last evening at the residence of Sanasam Lokendro Singh at Thongju in Imphal East. Singh is an assistant engineer of the same department. Police said no one was injured in the explosion and they could not say which group was responsible for the attack. The police had also recovered an unexploded hand grenade from the gate of the engineer’s residence on December 2. They said it was probably kept there to threaten the engineer. The family members and neighbours of the engineer were planning to stage a sit-in at the village today against the grenade attack, but it was postponed in view of a religious programme at the locality today.

RPF calls for stronger movement

Imphal, December 08 2009: Pointing out the ineffectiveness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights made by the United Nations on December 10, 1948, in Manipur, the anniversary of which is observed as International Human Rights Day every year across the world, the Revolutionary People's Front has called upon the people of Manipur to launch a stronger and more determined movement to secure collective rights of the people and also the right to self determination, guaranteed by the same declaration.

A statement issued by the RPF's Publicity Secretary T Leisemba asserted that in a place like Manipur reeling under alien rule, both armed and unarmed movements are necessary to secure the rights of the subjugated people.

In general, each country guarantees certain rights in addition to the rights guaranteed by the UN to peoples of its member countries so that peoples can live freely and stride towards collective development.

Moreover, there are two generally accepted concepts known as international human rights and international humanitarian laws which are closely inter-linked.

These two concepts were clearly defined by the Geneva Convention and other additional protocols.

As the liberation movement of Manipur is very much active, the people of Manipur need protection under both the national laws and international laws.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the national laws of each country guarantee several rights to the people which are broadly classified as individual and collective rights.

Individual rights encompass right to free movement, settlement, right to speech, right to form associations, right to equality, right to education, freedom of professing religion of one's choice, freedom from exploitation etc.

But in Manipur which is allegedly reeling under alien rule, all these beautiful provisions and clauses are meaningless.

There is no let up in fake encounters even in public places in broad daylight in this land where many draconian laws like the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act are in force.

Because of these reasons, the people of Manipur need to make stronger vows and take firmer positions every time they observe December 10 (International Human Rights Day).

Only then, the road to securing the rights guaranteed by the UN can be shortened.

As political and economic freedom can be achieved only when the Nation gains sovereignty, development pace can also be accelerated when sovereignty is realised.

This is supported by the UN General Assembly Declaration of 1948 and ICESCR and ICCPR Covenants of 1966 .

The same declaration was incorporated in the UN General Assembly Resolution 2200 A (XXII) passed in December 16, 1966 .

Compelled by this resolution, Indian Parliament passed the Human Rights Bill but much later on December 22, 1993 paving way for establishment of human rights commission in the country.

After a prolonged delay, the Government of India ratified the international convention against terror under cruel inhuman or degrading punishment on October 14, 1997 .

Even as India is also a signatory to most international covenants for safeguarding human rights, all kinds of human rights violations are being witnessed in Manipur, the outfit alleged.

Conveniently overlooking the fact that wars too have rules and limits, security forces have been acting as instruments of fake encounters, rape, involuntary disappearance, torture and detention of even aged democratic protesters under NSA.

The Government of India has also been persistently scheming to project the liberation movement of Manipuri people as terrorism, the outfit asserted.

Nevertheless, the liberation movement would rage on without any interruption because the origin and cause of the liberation movement is accepted by international laws and supported by the international community, the RPF claimed.

It further asserted that the liberation movement of Manipur is a political struggle based on clear ideology besides enjoying mass base.

At present, AFSPA is not enforced in some segments of Imphal but more people are killed in these areas.

This means the foremost priority is complete independence.

Only a forceful and massive movement can secure sovereignty of Manipur otherwise all international laws and rights will remain useless documents for the Manipuri Nation, the RPF asserted.

KLA washes hands off twin killings

Imphal, December 08 2009: Clarifying that KLA is not responsible for the killing of Hemang Taothang alias Mamang and Hemang alias Tiger at B Vengnoum in Churachandpur in the evening of December 5, information and publicity secretary of the armed outfit Armstrong Gangte has asserted that the two persons were killed by KNO/KNA.

Talking to mediapersons somewhere in Ukhrul district today, Armstrong Gangte said that on that fateful day Hemang Taothang alias Mamang and Hemang alias Tiger have gone to get something from B Vengnoum in Churachandpur when they were abducted and killed by armed cadres of KNO/KNA.

So that claim in newspapers that the two persons were killed by KNO/KLA was baseless, he added.

Informing that B Vengnoum is a stronghold of KNO/KNA, Armstrong reiterated that since KLA has left KNO and joined UPF, there is no such organisation called KNO/KLA anymore.

He further said that since KNO/KNA has been playing divide and rule policy among smaller ethnic Kuki groups, it could never be recognised as a national organisation of the Kukis.

It was KNO/KNA which encourages formation of ZRF and provides asylum.

But with the growth of ZRF, KNO/KNA plays its divide and rule and break up ZRF.

After this, KNO/KNA patronises ZDV but shot dead general secretary cum finance secretary of ZRF Abraham Jou in connivance with his bodyguard, Armstrong alleged.

Not happy with the conduct of KNO/KNA and its ideology, ZDV has also joined UPF.

KNA has also broke apart KLA group under KNO into two as Touthang group and Doungel group which has subsequently led to the formation of KRF.

It is because of such unwanted activities of KNO/KNA that KLA parted from KNO and joined with UPF, Armstrong reiterated, while calling upon the civil organisations not to be confused over the issue.

Furthermore, Armstrong alleged that killing of four persons by MLI at Mongkot Chepu on September 7 was at the behest of KNO/KNA.

So the demand for ex-gratia from the Government is not acceptable nor KLA would take it.

However, he appealed to all the authorities concerned to hand over the six arms seized to the custody of KLA which is under the fold of UPF.

KNO/KNA has been encouraging bloodshed in Kuki society and as a result has lost captain Touthang, Soson Touthang, Jilngam Touthang, Paolen Touthang, Goulen Touthang, Jangthang Touthang, Tongam Touthang, Khaithang Touthang, Yangam Touthang and Khailum Touthang, Armstrong said, adding that KLA does not like the bloodshed policy and programme of KNO/KNA under the guise of Zalengam movement and hence joined UPF.

Since KLA is an organisation under UPF now, Joint Monitoring Group of SoO ensure necessary benefits to the KLA as well, Armstrong pleaded.

Farmers' Club Products Exhibition on

Imphal, December 07 2009: For the first time in Manipur, a farmers' club products, an exhibition cum sale of various vegetable products and plants, which would go on for 7 days, has begun from today at GM Hall here.

Facilitated by People's Development Society, the event is being organised by Manipur Rural Bank under the sponsorship of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development.

In all 37 stalls are participating in the exhibition displaying various vegetables and plants.

Inaugural function of the exhibition was attended by MLA Dr Ng Bijoy Singh as chief guest and MLA S Kunjakishore Singh as president.

Officer in-charge RO Manipur of NABARD AB Das, Programme Co-ordinator of KVK Thoubal Dr Okram Nobo Singh and Senior Manager of Manipur Rural Bank AB Sharma were also present at the occasion as guests of honour.

Delivering the key note address, secretary of People's Development Society Thokchom Birmangol pointed out that as their no food security in Manipur, farmers should be encouraged in their activities.

He also informed that knowledge of various new techniques would be imparted to the farmers during the exhibition.

CM calls for preservation of culture, tradition of tribals

Imphal, November 30 : Manipur Chief Minister, O Ibobi Saturday called for a concerted effort in the preservation of old age cultures and traditions of all communities, irrespective large or small, residing in the state since time immemorial.

Speaking as chief guest at the inauguration function of celebration of Hmar Sikpui Rudi-2009, a winter festival of Hmar community of Manipur, here in Imphal (at the auditorium of the Tribal Research Institute), Ibobi said every indigenous tribes settling in the state whether it may small or big should effort to preserve their own cultures and traditions.

The state is home to various tribes since time immemorial.

Larger tribes should not look down upon the smaller tribes in any way.

Only when people live in harmony without differentiating which one is majority or minority, the passage of development will speed up.

MLA, Ngursanglur and director of RIMS, Dr L Fimate also attended the inaugural function of the festival celebration as guest of honour.

Prof Lal Dena presided over the function.

Presentation of cultural and traditional dances of the Hmar tribe marked the occasion.

From time immemorial the Hmars used to celebrate during winter season an annual festival called Sikpui festival or feast.

This festival is held to mark the successful harvest during mid winter.

The festival also is an occasion when the Hmar community experience sense of love and unity amongst them.

On this day, the poor and the rich, the high and the low all share the festival feast in one common ground.

In one of the songs of this Sikpui Festival, there is a vivid reference to some happenings in the unknown distant past, which bear similarity to the experiences of the Israelites at the time of their liberation from the Egyptian bondage under the leadership of Moses and the events that followed after they crossed the Red Sea.

Security to be deployed at interior Manipur village

Imphal: A police outpost would be opened soon at Thayong Khunou in Manipur's Imphal East district after the former chief of the village L Riyamkhup was killed by suspected Kuki militants, official sources said here today.

The decision to set up a security post was taken by the state government after a delegation of the village leaders called on chief minister O Ibobi Singh yesterday, sources said.

The state government would also give employment to the next kin of Riyamkhup, who was a government school assistant teacher and a leader of Kom community in the area, they said.

Sources said steps had also been taken to prevent any communal clashes particularly between Kuki and Kom communities in the area.

Riyamkhup was shot dead on Wednesday night near his house in the village allegedly by Kuki militants.

Komrem Union Manipur president L Karong had yesterday said that they respect other communities in the state and bigger communities should not impose diktat on them.

Rules of Game

By: Heigrujam Nabashyam

In the last session of the Parliament during a discussion on the rail budget when a member of the Lok Sabha commented that the rail budget looked like the budget of West Bengal, the rail minister Mamata Banerjee, an MP from West Bengal shot back “What is your problem with West Bengal”. The fact was, the rail budget was obviously lopsided with the interests of West Bengal to which the rail minister belongs. Interestingly the rail minister did not stop with that stunning shot; she also said that she would do whatever she could for the development of West Bengal – a classic statement from an Union minister in the parliament.
The statement of the rail minister certainly smacks of parochialism. But as a Mamata brigade member of the Rajya Sabha wrote in the column of The Telegraph, “India cannot prosper without a prosperous Bengal”, the minister for railways was right in putting Bengal first before the nation. Or should there be a different opinion?
It is the prerogative of the government – and the minister is the government – to focus on whatever programme or whichever area that the government considers priority. Equally it is also the responsibility of every member of the House – ruling or opposition to draw the attention of the government which they consider should be the priority. Though, finally it is the government that prevails. And that was exactly what Mamata Banerjee was doing – doing whatever she could for the development of West Bengal, as the Union minister of railways.
The same is true in all the departments of the government – of the present or of the past. The same will be true in any future government, too. This is not only true for the Union government of India, it is also true for any government in the states and Manipur is no exception.
The same is also true not only for India, but also true for any country in the world irrespective of the form and system of the government including that of the United States of America which stands for individual liberty and freedom and democratic rights for all its people and of the government of the People’s Republic of China whose system is anathema to individual liberty and freedom and having a government of one party dictatorship.
However the beauty of a democratic system – unlike a dictatorial one is that the government may be taken to task by the opposition or by any citizen for any violation of the rules of the game. Orders of the government could also be struck down by the judiciary if the orders are found to be ultra vires with the law of the land. The most important deterrent to the government in a democratic system is, of course, the ire of the people – the voters – who can vote the government out in the next elections, if the government goes against their wishes. Speaking to the media to mark his 20 years in cricket in Bombay – Mumbai the Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar provoked the Supreme leader of the Shiv Sena, Bal Thackrey by his “cheeky single” – “Mumbai belongs to all Indians”. Though there was no issue with his other statements that he was a Maharastrian and he was extremely proud of that and he was an Indian first.
The sensitivity of the Shiv Sena or its offshoot Maharastra Navnirman Sena for Mumbai has some sort of a legacy after the formation of Gujarat and Maharashtra on linguistic consideration from the earlier Bombay state. The Marathi speaking people or the Marathi Manoos as the Shiv Sena and its offshoot love to call themselves, - consider that Mumbai belongs to the Marathi Manoos. And that nobody should challenge that.
But the hard fact is Bombay - Mumbai is the financial capital of the country besides being the capital city of Maharashtra. The control of the economic power in this financial capital is in the hands of the corporate people who are non-Marathi Manoos. This, without any doubt, is the basic cause for the sensitivities of the proponents of the Marathi Manoos.
When Tendulkar was scolded for his “cheeky” statement, leaders from across the political spectrum of India showed solidarity with Sachin Tendulkar, not for any cricket but for all reasons of politics. They condemned the Sena Supremo for his parochialism. And if I were somebody I would also have condemned the Supremo as I had a little experience of the ethos of the Manoos in Bombay sometime last winter, despite my being a non-stranger to the Maharashtrian life.
The feeling or sentiment of a lost territory is, I believe, not typical for the Marathi Manoos. The sentiment is common in cities, towns and places where emigrants or people from other parts of the country have marginalized the sons of the soil. This is a phenomenon; even the advanced societies in the world are not free from. Indeed, the most infamous remark in the recent past of reflecting such sentiments was – “Britain would be swamped by the Asians” - made by the then British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Unfortunately the spirit of this phenomenon is on the rise in certain areas and in certain sections of society in India and with globalization the phenomenon will become more and more prominent.
When Mamata Banerjee as Union minister put Bengal before the nation in her rail budget, nobody called her parochial, because she knew how to play the game. She was doing it for Bengal – not for the Bengalis – therefore she was not parochial. It is also understandable how she and for that matter any leader would feel in a hypothetical situation where the sons of the soil are marginalized by emigrants in their own home state.
However, this is not to suggest that parochialism may be justified and that attempt should be made to sort the matter out on the streets because the issue is much more important and complicated and needs thorough planning and execution with the sanction of law to deal the matter.
In a similar vein but much at a lower level, it was reported that some civil society organizations in Manipur – FRIENDS, The Inner Line Permit Demand Committee Kangleipak, etc. - held a meeting and voiced serious concern of the indigenous peoples of Manipur for the alleged threats to the sons of the soil by the emigrants from Nepal and Bangladesh. And the fun is the state government does not even consider them as illegal immigrants. According to the reports placed in the meeting the emigrant populations of the Nepalis and the Bangladeshis have far exceeded the population of many of the smaller indigenous communities of Manipur put together.
It may be noted that there are at least 36 indigenous groups or communities in Manipur and many of the communities have populations of few thousands each only. Therefore given the vulnerability of the social demography of Manipur the rise in the migrant population in Manipur is disturbing. This naturally calls the state government to take steps to check this disturbing trend by applying appropriate laws, as it is a tricky situation.
The Manipur government must enact proper land laws to protect the indigenous communities and this will help maintain the demographic balance more than any other measure. At the same time Manipur should not be made difficult to reach by any citizen or by the tourists by imposing any restrictions including the Restricted Area Permit imposed by the Union Government. But the state government must play the game wisely so that the sons of the soil would be placed in a better position while taking on the challenges of globalization.
The writer is a Ex-Candidate Singjamei a/c, Manipur

Manipur sweeps several medals in the Special Olympics National Games 2009

Imphal, Nov 22: The Manipur Team has won several medals at the Special Olympics National Games 2009 held at the cities of Kolkata, Mumbai and Patna.

According to Sports Director, Special Olympics Bharat Manipur Chapter, Th. Saratkumar Singh, the Manipur women`s team comprising of Y. Somolata, Y. Ibechaobi, A. Sardaluxmi and Nengneo Neishel won gold medal in bocce team event and Somolata as well as Ibechaobi won silver medals in individual bocce event.

While men`s team comprising of W. Dinesh, Kenjit, A.John and S.Milan won bronze medal in bocce team event and men`s handball team won silver medal.

Further, four football players namely A.Abung, Satjahao Haokip, Kh. Bangkim and Sominlal Kipgen have been selected for the World Summer Special Olympics to be held at Athens in 2011.

GK Pillai assures elections to ADC in Manipur

New Delhi, November 22 2009: Demanding election to the Autonomous District Council, the Manipur Tribal Council, represented by its president HK Joute and the general secretary H Pauzalal submitted a memorandum to the President of India Pratibha Patil today. The MTC leaders also met the Outer Manipur MP Thangso Baite and Home Secretary GK Pillai, besides other political leaders and put forward their grievances.

Speaking to this correspondent the Tribal Council Secretary H Pauzalal said that Home Secretary Pillai had given his assurance that the council election will be held at the earliest.

He assured that he will pressurize the State Government for the same.

Further the Tribal Council secretary questioned why ” the Panchayati Raj in the valley areas are being held regularly and are effectively functioning but why are the elections to the district councils being withheld ? If other North East States could enjoy such provisions, why not in Manipur ? ” .

He further noted that the special provision under the Indian Constitution, Article no 371 (C) has no meaning if the election of the districts is being delayed or withheld.

He said, ” this is injustice and a step motherly treatment by the Centre as well as the State Government to the hill tribals of Manipur”.

In the memorandum submitted to the President which was also addressed to the Prime Minister , the Chairperson of UPA Government, the Opposition leader, the Union Home Minister and the Governor of Manipur, the Tribal Council leaders requested that the State Government be asked to hold the ADC elections on or before 2009 .

Domestic workers and their children observe day of hope

Imphal, Nov 22: A Day of Hope cum Children`s Day was observed today by Manipur Domestic Workers` Movement (MDWM) at Don Bosco Savio Hall, Chingmeirong.

The function was attended by Dr. S Vaiphei, MO, HQ IGAR (South), Rev. Fr. C.C. Jose, Mary Immaculate Parish Priest and Majaguila, councillor of IMC as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

Addressing the function, Dr. Vaiphei highlighted the various programmes taken up by Assam Rifles for the welfare of people especially of health and medical services and appealed the domestic workers to work sincerely with deep faith in God.

Fr. C.C. Jose, the President of today`s function, announced for free education to be given to the children of domestic workers at Don Bosco School with the kind support from Bosco Mangal.

A domestic worker also expressed her grievances and hardship faced in her day to day life and urged the government agencies to render certain services that can raise their standard of living.

Later, various songs and dances were presented by the children of domestic workers as a part of children`s day.

Home >> Headlines Ukhrul body condemns kidnap of village chief

Imphal, November 21, 2009: The Tangkhul Naga Wungnoa Long (TNWL) has expressed strong condemnation to the incident of abduction of Mathankhui, headman of Hong Village of Ukhrul district the underground outfit group UKLA (MC) on November even though he had been released on the next day safely.

This act of abducting innocent civilian has created tension insecurity and emotional harassed to the family members as wells the public at large, a statement of the body signed by its president, Kaphungkan Shimray said.

At the same time, the TNWL also expressed gratitude and thanks to UKLA (MC) underground group for releasing him safely on the next day (November 17). A resolution condemning the act of the UKLA (MC) was taken in an executive meeting of the TNWL held on November 17. The meeting also resolved to appeal to all the underground group/factions to stop indulging this kind of abduction of any form of inhumane act that could trigger tension and other unwanted social problems, the TNWL stated.

ZSUBV flays 11 Assam Rifles

Imphal, November 14 2009: The Zeliangrong Students' UNion, Barak Valey has strongly condemned the alleged high handedness of 11 Assam Rifles, reports our Jiribam correspondent.

The Union lamented that troops of 11 Assam Rifles posted at Azuran in Tousem sub-division of Tamenglong district burnt down barns of the villagers of Longchai in Tousem terming them as hideouts of UGs.

Besides burning down the barns of the villagers, the AR men also terrorised the people of Longchai on the pretext of counter insurgency operations.

The Union has appealed to the higher authority of Assam Rifles to refrain its jawans from terrorising the innocent civilians on the pretext of counter insurgency operations.

Bodies raise repeal AFSPA pitch

Imphal, November 14 2009: Eighteen different civil organisations based in the Northeastern States, Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi have demanded immediate repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958 from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura as well as the Jammu and Kashmir Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1990 from Jammu and Kashmir.

A resolution was adopted in this regard after deliberating on the issues of AFSPA from November 12 to 14 at New Delhi.

The three day long meeting was attended by representatives of Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP), Boro Women Justice Forum (BWJF), Borok People's Human Rights Organisation (BPHRO), Borok Women's Forum (BWF), Campaign For Peace & Democracy Manipur (CPDM), Centre for Law Development (CLD) Srinagar, Human Rights Alert (HRA), Indian Social Action Forum (INSAF), Jammu & Kashmir Trade Union Centre (JKTUC), Karbi Nimso Chingthur Asong (KNCA), Manipur Students' Association Delhi (MSAD), Muslim Khawateen Markaz (MKM), Naga Women's Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), Naga Women Union Manipur (NWUM), New Trade Union Initiatives (NTUI), Saheli Women's Group (NWG), Samindar Karbi Anime (SKA) and The Other Media (TOM).

The meeting noted that AFSPA continues to be the most important repressive tool of the Indian state that empowers even a non commissioned officer of the armed forces of the Union to kill on mere suspicion while also providing legal immunity from prosecution, thereby causing untold misery and agony among the peoples of the affected regions.

The civil organisations shared deep concern over the importance being given to AFSPA by the State in the context of the increasing militarization of the society in the sub-continent especially after 9/11 and the growing communalization of the polity in India as a whole.

They also expressed concern over the way the media is reporting incidents of violence in J&K and the North-East by and large ignoring the assault on human rights by the guardians of law and order and broadly endorsing those policies of the state that militate against democratic norms and humanitarian principles.

Noting that this Act has led to gross civil and political rights violations including enforced disappearances, extra-judicial execution, torture, inhuman and degrading treatment, rape and other forms of sexual violence against women, arbitrary arrest and detention, the meeting urged upon New Delhi to refrain from inserting any part of the Acts into any other legislation granting unbridled powers to the armed forces of the union or the State police.

Further noting that the imposition of AFSPA also has severe economic, social and cultural cost including erosion of civil administration, lack of access to education, basic health care, destruction of properties and sources of livelihood, and environmental destruction, they called upon the people of India to support the ongoing campaign for the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act and resist the increasing militarization of democratic spaces.

The meeting agreed that continuation of the 'disturbed area' status under the AFSPA in many parts of the country is illegal in view of the violation of the mandatory six monthly periodic directed by Supreme Court in its 1997 judgement.

They noted that the climate of impunity entrenched in these areas have led to the complete failure of the rule of law including non-registration of cases against the armed forces, and even if the few cases where investigations are completed the criminal prosecution is pending for want of sanction from the Central Govt on the application sent by the State Governments.

It reminded that the Government of India's own BP Jeevan Reddy Committee (2005), Administrative Reforms Commission headed by Veerappan Moily (2007) and Working Group on Confidence-Building Measures in Jammu and Kashmir headed by Mohammad Hamid Ansari (2007) have consistently recommended the repeal of AFSPA, The civil organisations unanimously agreed that the regions where AFSPA has been imposed, there exist suppressed democratic aspiration of people and the prolonged imposition of AFSPA has resulted in deepening the cycle of violence.

They also shared the view that repealing AFSPA would open up the necessary democratic space for addressing the root causes of the political instability, conveyed a joint statement.

Two kidnapped engineers yet to be traced in Manipur

Imphal: Security personnel combed different parts of Imphal East district to trace the two kidnapped engineers of Manipur power department as several organizations today appealed to the abductors not to extort money from government departments and release the duo unharmed.

A police team, supported by other security personnel, searched Khurai, Kongpal and other places in Imphal East district in past few days following report that the kidnapped officials were being kept somewhere in the district, a senior police official said.

The newly-formed United People's Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) earlier claimed responsibility for the abduction of Executive engineer TH Tomalchan and section officer of the department L Mangi, who were taken away at gun-point from near their houses at Kongpal and Khurai area in Imphal East on November 6 and demanded a payment of Rs. 15 crore by the department for their safe release.

While various social organisations called upon the ultras to ensure safe release of the officials and not to indulge in extortion from government departments, a power department official confirmed attempts were being made to rescue the officials "by using various means."

CIC verdict on RTI fees

By SUBHASH CHANDRA

Public-authorities spend valuable man-hours and much more postal-expenses to send demand-letter of even rupees two for one page. The petitioner has to spend on postal and bank charges to remit petty amount like rupees two.

IT REFERS to full-bench CIC-verdict clarifying that public-authorities cannot charge more than rupees two per page of copied documents to be supplied in response to RTI petitions. But Union government should make some petty amendments towards RTI fees to make it economical both for public-authorities and RTI petitioners.

Public-authorities spend valuable man-hours and much more postal-expenses to send demand-letter of even rupees two for one page. The petitioner has to spend on postal and bank charges to remit petty amount like rupees two. Rule should be to provide first few pages say five free-of-charge, while full copying charges may be charged if number of pages exceed five meaning thereby that rupees twelve (and not rupees two) may be charged for six pages. System will save money and man-hours both for petitioners and public-authorities.

Public-authorities like Supreme Court spend extra by responding through costly Registered Post, while others like Prime Minister’s Office use unreliable ordinary mail even despite being informed about wrong-delivery of letters. Public-authorities should be directed to use reliable and economical Speed Post only for all destinations covered by Speed Post service.

Army honours for state police officers

IMPHAL, Nov 7: A special Army Awards Investiture Ceremony was conducted at the Red Shield Auditorium of HQ 57 Mtn Div today in honour of six brave police officers of Manipur and New Delhi who have been awarded the Eastern Army Commander`s Commendation Card, presided by Maj Gen Shakti Gurung, VSM, GOC, 57 Mtn Div in the presence of senior Police and Army officials.

In his welcome address, Maj Gen Shakti Gurung, VSM highlighted the tremendous potential of the people of Manipur, its rich heritage and natural resources. He highlighted the need for peace and security to prevail for the development of the State and thanked the Police and Civil administration for all the assistance and support provided.

Tracing the precise, well coordinated and surgical operations conducted by 57 Mtn Div over the last year, Maj Gen Shakti Gurung, VSM highlighted the fact that numerous UG hideouts were destroyed in and around Loktak Lake with zero collateral damage, or casualties to innocent civilians. This, the GOC mentioned, was an outcome of the excellent rapport and synergy shared by the Army and Police in Manipur. In fact, this cooperation has been often cited as an example for other states to emulate.

Maj Gen Shakti Gurung, VSM reached out to the misguided youth who had been forced to join UG cadres at tender ages while their leaders lived luxurious lives in foreign countries and big Metro cities. He exhorted these misguided youth to accept the Govt`s excellent and honourable surrender policy. This would give them a second chance to live a normal life with their parents and children.

The seven awards conferred on police officials from Bishenpur District and New Delhi is perhaps the first time that so many Army awards have been given in a single year to a different organisation.

In the glittering and solemn ceremony, the Police Officials awarded the Eastern Army Commander`s Commendation Card were, Mr Jayanta Singh, Superintendent of Police, Bishenpur, Mr Sudhir Kumar Metei, Inspector, Bishenpur Police Cdos (Two Awards), Mr S Chandra Kumar, Inspector, Bishenpur Police Cdos, Mr P Sanjoy Singh, Sub-Inspector, Bishenpur Police Cdos, Mr BL Vaiphei, Sub-Inspector, Bishenpur Police Cdos, Mr Krishan Giri, Encounter Specialist, Delhi Police.

The GOC requested the DGP Manipur to recognise these awards as being equivalent, if not more superior, than Police awards. Due weightage should be given to the individuals who have won these awards in their overall career profile.

UBI scam: More money recovered

Imphal, November 06 2009: Out of the total amount of Rs 4.54 crores fraudulently withdrawn from UBI Churachandpur Branch by a UG group, a sum of another Rs 1.71 crore has been reportedly handed over today.

The balance amount is also likely to be handed over tomorrow.

The new development has come about even as the State Government is discussing to hand over the case to the CBI for inquiry following strong pressure from the Army authorities.

A signatory of the Suspension of Operation (SoO), the UG group had fraudulently withdrawn the amount which is actually meant for the Multi-Sectoral Development Programme.

At around noon today, members of the UG group handed over Rs 1.71 crores in the presence of Brig Rajiv Pant of 27 Sector, Churachandpur; Deputy Commissioner of the district Jacinta Lazarus and SP G Bimol.

Earlier, the UG group had handed over Rs 2.27 crores.

According to information received by the press, the UG group in question has so far handed over Rs 3.98 crores out of the total Rs 4.54 withdrawn.

The remaining balance amount is also expected to be handed over tomorrow.

The amount which was handed over today has been seized by the police after the same was produced before the court of CJM Churachandpur.

It may be recalled here that the police have already arrested some staff of the bank in connection with this case.

On the other hand, police have taken up another case in connection with the attempt to avail loan for purchasing truck from MGT Motors (Tata Motors) with fake certificates and patta as well as land valuation worked out by forging the signatures of SDC and Sub-Registrar of Keirao Bitra, Imphal East district.

The matter came to light when officials of the company visited the office of the SDO, Keirao Bitra today for verification of the application submitted by one Puyam Boby of Ucheckon Takhok Mapal for taking loan to purchase a truck, SDO Ng Roben disclosed.

On checking the official record, the patta submitted in the name of Puyam Inao who is supposed to be the guarantor of the person taking the loan was not only found to be in the name of one Puyam Hera but the signature of Supervisory Kanungo (SK) too had been forged.

Apart from forging the signature of the SDC and working out the land valuation as Rs 15 lakhs, the land valuation certificate has also been detected to be fake and encumbered certificate which was re-prepared after forging the signature of the Sub-Registrar.

Beware of Government’s agents, caution student organisations

IMPHAL, Nov 1 : In case anyone commits the blunder of colluding with the State Government against the three months old people’s movement including the class boycott agitation, in the course of which there have been many casualties, sufferings and arrests, they would be taught befitting lessons, cautioned the AMSU, MSF and KSA.
However, guardians’ bodies, teachers’ associations, private individuals and other organisations organising any meeting to find out the root cause for students’ staying away from schools and any agitation they may launch towards enabling students attend class would be appreciated and supported, the three student bodies said in a joint statement.
Even after the July 23 Khwairamband killing has been proven to be a clear case of fake encounter with photographic evidence by Tehelka magazine, the State Government has not taken up any action commensurate to the crime till date.
Rather, the Government has been scheming to reduce the people’s movement by using both secret and open agents.
The Government has been making invitations for negotiation on one side while at the same time plotting to terminate the people’s movement using different organisations including student bodies who have allegedly thrown away their principles and also involved in different criminal activities.
The issue can be settled only when the Government start acting in line with wish and aspirations of the people, the student bodies iterated.
Though a round of talk was held with the State Government, the Government is still unable to give a definite assurance to fulfil the main demands of the people. As such, the ongoing class boycott movement would remain, they declared.
Any individual or group putting up obstacles or jeopardising the people’s movement would amount to putting their heads between grindstones, the student bodies warned.
The AMSU, MSF and KSA reiterated that they do not have any third ear to listen to appeals for lifting the class boycott until and unless the people’s goal is achieved.
Reacting to the call to make educational institutions a free zone, the student bodies asked the advocates of ‘free zone’ if they remembered their slogan only at the time when collective strength of the people should be mustered in the fight against the incumbent Government.
Noting that some agents of the Government including a students’ body are organising a public meeting at BOAT on November 2 in connection with the ongoing class boycott movement, the AMSU, MSF and KSA asserted that the movement being spearheaded by the Apunba Lup cannot be affected by whatever decision adopted in the meeting.
Questioning whether the ‘education free zone’ campaign did not cover GP Women’s College and Manipur University, the student bodies asked as to why GP Women’s College Principal Karam Manimohan was assaulted most brutally.
They further asserted that Karam Manimohan was hospitalised because of the assault by the particular students’ body and later succumbed to the injuries.
The student bodies went on to ask whether making educational institutions a free zone meant summoning teachers at their office and thrashing them.
It would be very unfortunate if those organisations decide to challenge the people’s movement openly instead of consulting and highlighting their opinions and views to the AMSU, MSF and KSA.
Calling upon guardians and teachers, who are deeply worried over the inability of students to attend class to introspect and tread in the right path towards bringing a justified solution to the issue, the student bodies appealed to the guardians and teachers to stay away from those taking side with the Government and plotting to nullify the people’s movement. They asserted that the Government has been using some student bodies to make the class boycott movement ineffective after it failed to do so by using police commandos. They further called upon all sections of the society to launch a renewed and forceful movement against the ruling leaders of the State to take the movement to its logical end.

CM calls for peace and harmony on Kut day

IMPHAL, Nov 1: The post harvest festival of Kuki-Chin Mizo group, `Kut` was celebrated in various parts of the state today.

The main celebration of the day was observed by the State Level Kut Committee at the 1st MR ground Imphal this morning with chief minister O Ibobi Singh as chief guest of the function.

Cultural dances and folk songs by the artists from different communities of Kuki-Chin Mizo group marked the observation.

Chief minister O Ibobi Singh while inaugurating festival this morning at 1st MR ground Imphal said the celebration is not for the Kuki-Chin Mizo alone.

Such festivals can bring peace and communal harmony in the state he said.

The chief minister further said Kut was once celebrated by the communities of Kuki Chin Mizo at their respective villages during this season choosing a convenient time, but considering the value and impact of the festival the state government brought it up to a state level festival and November 1 has been recognized as Kut day.

The festival is today recognised by the Union ministry of tourism.

The chief minister also extended his greetings to the people of the state on the occasion and mentioned that as a post harvest festival of Kuki-Chin-Mizo group of people, `Kut" symbolizes compassion, gaiety and gratefulness.

It is also a thanks giving to God for a bountiful harvest, he said.

Setting aside the barriers of all castes, creeds and religions, the festival provides a good platform to every human being to introspect on his own thoughts and values he added.

There is confident that the Kut festival will be celebrated in its true spirit and reaffirm our resolve to strengthen peaceful coexistence among various ethnic groups, which is an age-old glorious tradition of the people of Manipur, the chief minster said.

MP, Manipur Outer Parliamentary Constituency, Thangso Baite and power minister T Phungzathang attended the function as president and guest of honour made their wishes to the people of the state for bringing peace and harmony with the celebrations of Kut festival.

The chief minister also released the Kut souvenir.

The inaugural function this morning was enlightened by the performances of cultural dances and folk music performed by various artists from different communities.

On the other hand, the second session of the Kut festival organized by the state Level Kut committee this afternoon attracted large crowds from different parts of the state to witnessed the Miss Kut, 2009 contest.

The show was enlived further by a music bonanza and other cultural items.

Kut celebration was also conducted today at Henglep, Churachandpur, Sita in Chandel district and other interior parts of the state where Kuki-Chin-Mizo communities are settled.

Manipur lawyer goes missing

Wife suspects abduction by rebels, neighbours hold sit-in for his release

OUR CORRESPONDENT

Residents of Singjubung stage a sit-in to protest the abduction of Manoharmayum Ibotombi Sharma in Imphal on Thursday. Picture by Eastern Projections Imphal, Oct. 29: A lawyer who was served an extortion notice of Rs 1 lakh by a militant organisation a year ago went missing from Imphal after leaving home to repair his car on Sunday morning. Though the family has not received any ransom call yet, his wife is certain that it is a case of abduction by suspected militants. This, in fact, is the first instance when a lawyer has been targeted by suspected rebels. Manoharmayum Ibotombi Sharma, 54, practises at Gauhati High Court. “He went out of the house at 9am on October 25 in his car. Before leaving, he told me that he would be going to a garage to get some parts of his car repaired. Since then his whereabouts are not known,” Sharma’s wife, Dhaniya Devi, said. No militant group, however, has claimed responsibility for the alleged abduction or made any contact with the family. “When he failed to return home till evening, I was worried and tried calling him on his mobile phone. But his phone was switched off,” Dhaniya Devi said. That evening, she lodged a complaint with Imphal police station about her missing husband. The police, too, believe it is a case of abduction and have begun investigations. But they are still clueless on Sharma’s whereabouts, Dhaniya Devi, said. Militants have earlier attacked senior officers in the state after alleged extortion demands. But this is the first time that a lawyer has been abducted by suspected militants. Sharma’s family, however, failed to name any suspected militant group for the abduction. Dhaniya Devi said nearly a year ago, a faction of the Kangleipak Communist Party (Wanglen Group) had demanded Rs 1 lakh from her husband. But Sharma did not give them the money and the group did not persist with the demand either. “I cannot say if the same group is responsible for the abduction. So far, we do not have any clue about my husband. We suspect that some militants could be holding him for ransom,” Dhaniya Devi said. Residents of Singjubung in Imphal city staged a sit-in today demanding Sharma’s release. “We want the lawyer safely released and also a clarification on why he was abducted by the group,” said Ranisana Devi, one of the protesters. The alleged abduction comes just days after the murder of retired doctor Huidrom Binodkumar Singh. Singh, who retired in February as the medical officer of a government hospital in Bishnupur district, was robbed and murdered by unidentified persons in Imphal East on October 22. All government and private hospitals and clinics across the state suspended OPD and routine operations yesterday to protest against the murder.

Nagaland lifts force from border

Manipur protest pays off
OUR CORRESPONDENT

Imphal, Oct. 14: Manipur moved a company of India Reserve Battalion to Akash post at Jessami in Ukhrul district along the state’s boundary with Nagaland as Nagaland Armed Police withdrew today.

The Nagaland government agreed to withdraw the force from the post following a directive from the Union home ministry to facilitate Manipur to open a post of its own force.

Nagaland police had moved into the security post after troops of the BSF were withdrawn for deployment elsewhere about six months ago.

An official source here said the Union home ministry made the move after chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh sent a protest representation to home minister P. Chidambaram against the opening of Nagaland Armed Police on this side of the border.

Ibobi Singh lodged the complaint on October 9 after it was reported that the Nagaland Armed Police had opened a post at the border village on Jessami on Manipur land.

The source said Navin Verma, the joint secretary (Northeast) in the Union home ministry, in a fax message informed Ibobi Singh that the Nagaland government had been directed to withdraw its force and directed him to open a post of the India Reserve Battalion to replace the Nagaland post.

After receiving the home ministry directive, Manipur director-general of police Yumnam Joykumar Singh spoke to his Nagaland counterpart to facilitate the change of forces at the Akash post, located near Akash bridge across the Tizu river that divides Manipur and Nagaland. They fixed today as the day for the replacement.

Another official source in Ukhrul said over phone that one company of the 6th India Reserve Battalion, comprising more than 90 personnel and led by one assistant commandant, left the district headquarters this morning for Jessami, which is about 135km away.
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Normal life affected in Manipur due to general strike

Imphal, Oct 15 (PTI) Normal life was today affected in Manipur due to a general strike called by insurgent outfits to protest the merger of the state with the country on October 15, 1949.

Markets, shops and business establishments remained closed while transport services between Manipur and neighbouring states were cancelled.

Attendance in government offices was almost nil as employees could not reach offices due to absence of transport services, reports said.

The strike also affected normal life in the interior districts.

Security forces were deployed at important points in the capital town here.

The Manipur People's Liberation Front (MPLF), formed by some major insurgent organisations, has called the 24-hour strike.

Govt asks MHRC to abort July 23 probe

Imphal, October 8 : Along with directing the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) to wind up its investigation into the July 23 Khwairamband Bazar incident for the second time, the State Government has also asked the Commission to withdraw the summons served on the Imphal West SSP and Commando OC.

According to a reliable source, in a letter dated September 29, but received by the Commission only yesterday, Under Secretary of Home Department, Government of Manipur Priyadarshini Laishram directed the Commission, for the second time, to wrap up its investigation since a State-sponsored Judicial Inquiry is to be conducted.

The Commission had received similar instruction from the State Government last month as well.

The source further disclosed that in the same letter, the Under Secretary has also asked the Commission to withdraw its summons issued on September 29 on Imphal West SP and Commandos OC to appear before the Commission to record their statements on the BT Road incident that left two people killed, and five others injured in alleged police firing.

Regardless of the instructions, the Commission has taken serious note over the failure of Imphal West SP and Commando OC to appear before the Commission today for recording their statements.

Accordingly, the Commission has issued an arrest warrant of the two police officers.

Addressed to the DGP, the warrant has asked that the two absconding police officers be arrested and producing before MHRC by October 9 definitely, the source disclosed.

The Commission is likely to discuss the directives of the Government to wrap up its investigation into the July 23 incident.

However, it is very likely that the Commission would not accept the proposal of the Government, the source added.

Meanwhile, public protest over the July 23 incident continued with demonstrations in different parts in pursuance of the demand for punishment of the police commandos involved in the incident and resignation of Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh on moral ground.

At Tera Lukram Leirak, Poirei Iata and Tera Lukram Leirak Apunba Nupi Lup joined hands in staging a protest demonstration.

Placards inscribed with slogans like 'Remove all black laws from Manipur ', 'Give befitting punishment to the police commandos involved in the BT Road incident', 'Take action against the police officers who are protecting the guilty police Cdos', 'Step down CM Ibobi on moral ground ', etc were seen.

Rahul effect: Cong leaders visit Dalit homes in UP

Lucknow – Taking a cue from Rahul Gandhi, Congress MPs, MLAs and office bearers today chose Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday to visit Dalit homes across Uttar Pradesh, sharing food with them and spending a night there in an attempt to reclaim the Dalit vote bank in the key state.

Union Ministers Jitin Prasada and Sri Prakash Jaiswal, UPCC president Rita Bahuguna Joshi, CLP leader Pramod Tewari and cricketer-turned-politician Md Azharuddin travelled to Dalit-dominated villages in their respective constituencies and discussed their problems.

While Joshi visited at Hardiya village on Mirzapur-Allahabad border, Tewari went to a village in Pratpgarh district and MP Azharuddin was in Moradabad.

48-hour Manipur bandh begins today

IMPHAL, Oct 1 – A 48-hour Manipur bandh has been called from midnight of October 1 in protest against the “irresponsible and unstable” SPF-led Government of Manipur for “denying the genuine demands” of the joint action committee to resolve the “chronic cases” of 835 teachers of the six Autonomous District Councils appointed in 2006 by the State Government.

In a press release issued by the convener and co-convener of the JAC on Wednesday, appealed to the people for their co-operation in the fight for the rights of the victimised teachers who have been working for the cause of education in the State.

Meanwhile, an indefinite economic blockade had been imposed along the National Highway 39 and 53 from midnight of September 29 by the JAC against the State Government’s directive for holding DPC for fresh recruitment of primary teachers for six hill districts without settling the cases of the 835 primary teachers who were appointed in 2006 and who had been drawing regular salaries for the last 10-11 months since their induction.

It is worth noting that the Naga Peoples’ Organization (NPO) had stated in a press release on Tuesday that the JAC does not exist in Senapati district and as such the NPO will not support the economic blockade called by the JAC, and will ensure free flow of vehicles carrying goods on National Highway 39.

The NPO had further stated that the 835 teachers who were appointed in 2006 should sort out their problems with the appropriate authorities instead of imposing economic blockade.

Bandh, boycott won’t bring solution: Manipur CM

Imphal, Sep 30: Calling bandh and boycotting classes will bring no solution, stated Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi Singh while addressing in the closing ceremony of the 2nd School Meet at Khuman Lampak today. The Chief Minister appealed to the students’ organizations, All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU), Manipur Students Federation (MSF) and Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA) to stop their agitation of boycotting the classes and requested them to come forward for talks.

Stating the July 23 shoot out at Khwairamband Bazaar as unfortunate, O Ibobi Singh who presided as the chief guest at the 2nd School Meet maintained that several agitations have erupted since the incident.

He also asserted that the government had decided to initiate a magisterial probe on the July 23 incident. However, in the interest of the general public the Judicial Enquiry has been initiated.

The Chief Minister has also appealed to the people of Manipur to come forward and furnish their statement in connection with the incident.

Asserting that the police officials involved in the July 23 incident to have been suspended, O Ibobi stated that the police officials cannot be just dismissed without appropriate enquiry.

Ibobi Singh said that he had received information of providing bullets to some schools by the boycott supporters for conducting classes.

Instead of agitating and boycotting the classes, the boycott supporters should come forward and talk and resolve the matter, stated O Ibobi Singh.

He also stated that such activities are not meant for the students.

Maintaining that the Government has always given the first priority to education in the State, O Ibobi further asserted that the performance of the Government schools’ is deteriorating every year. The school authorities must complain to the higher authorities to improve the performance of the government schools, added the Chief Minister.

He also assured that the government would support such annual school meet. About 777 students from all the nine districts of the State participated in the second school meet.

Our demands are for Manipur, assert JACs

Imphal, September 29: Taking strong exception to the assertion of the people of Thoubal Leishangthem and Thoudam that they never took part in the people's movement, the Khurai JAC and the Lamshang JAC reminded that their demands are for the rights and welfare of all the people of Manipur.

A joint press release issued by the two JACs said that they were well aware of the divide and rule policy being allegedly played by Chief Minister Okram Ibobi against the people of Manipur.

Yet, the people of Manipur were cautious enough not to fall prey to such diabolic policy.

Apparently referring to the pamphlet distributed by some people of Thoubal Leishangthem and Thoudam yesterday, the JACs asked whether they could speak against the mass movement in case the tragedies befalling upon the families of Rabina and Sanjit fall on their own families.

"Should not they launch similar protest movements, if the victims belonged to Thoubal district and the Chief Minister happened to be someone from Khurai or Lamshang?", they questioned.

Questioning their capacity to distribute pamphlets at Imphal Bazar yesterday without any permission from Imphal West DC, Imphal East DC or Thoubal DC, the JACs said that some people would have been shot dead by police commandos belonging to Thoubal district in case any group belonging to other districts were distributing pamphlets.

As long as such attitude of the Government persists, development and progress would continue to remain out of sight, they asserted.

The JACs also condemned the gate-crashing and raiding the house of the Khurai JAC convenor by police commandos at about midnight of September 26 .

The state Government's treatment of the issue in such manner was nothing but stirring a hornet's nest.

Saying that they took serious note of some people openly belittling and challenging the mass movement though mass media, the JAC decried the alleged stepped-up activity of the Government to arrest protesters.

"The SPF Government should know that the people's movement cannot be suppressed even if the JAC convenors and all the members are put behind bars", they asserted.

It further alleged that the police and IRB personel recruited recently were not for protection of people but for guarding the relatives and family members of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi.

Chief Minister Ibobi may be very dear to the people of Thoubal district for the benefits and advantages provided by him but to the larger population of the state belonging to other districts, O Ibobi is the most unpopular Chief Minister, they added.

District council engg cell to be abolished

IMPHAL, Sept 28 : Finalization for total abolition of the existing District Council Engineering Cell/ Section (Wing-I & Wing-II) under the administrative control of the hills department government of Manipur will be made with the completion of works under taken up by the DCECs which are scheduled to end during the current financial year.

Disclosing this, a highly placed official source said that, the decision for abolishing of the said engineering cell of the ADC was taken during a Cabinet meeting held on April 29 this year, by incorporating the laid down policies to merge the two engineering cells of the District Council (Wing-I & Wing-II) with Manipur Tribal Development Corporation Ltd and the same has bee reaffirmed by the recent sitting of the state cabinet.

The official source further mentioned that the decision was made by the state government following the accumulating instances of no further deposit work have been taken up by the two engineering cells of the district council from any other department of the government and which tend to the lack of viabilities in resource mobilizations.

It may be mentioned that, six Hill Autonomous District Council of Manipur has established a District Council Engineer Cell/Cell/Section (Wing-I & Wing-II with Manipur Tribal Development Corporation Ltd. and no further deposit will be taken up by the two engineering cells of the district Council from any other department of the government.

In fact the two wings of the engineering cells of the District Council Engineering Cell-Wing I & Wing II are currently undertaking the following Deposit works of various state government departments, and government is awaiting for the completion under taking works by the both engineering cells of the District councils including constructions of auditorium of the Arts & Culture Deptt. at Hapta Kangjeibung (Palace Compound), Imphal, Construction of 2900 Nos of IARHs (Prehab), constructions of 42 Nos of CRCs (Prehab) constructions of 18 Nos of CRCs (Brick), constructions of IARHs (Brick), constructions of veterinary hospitals at Churachandpur, Ukhrul, Chandel, Tamenglong and Senapati, constructions of CHCs/PHCs and PHSCs of Health department at Wangoi, Sevon and Tousem, constructions of CMO office at Porompat taken up by Engineering Wing-II, construction of ITI block at Phaknung, construction of type-III quarters at CMO office Senapti, construction of Veterinary hospitals at Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal and Bishnupur districts.

The official source said the since the above mentioned works have been executed under an agreement signed between the District Council Enggineering Cells with the concerned department, the two wings of engineering cells are bound to complete of the on-going deposit works after-mentioned within the current financial year.

On the other hand to avoid the legal complicacies, it is imperative to complete at least the ongoing works by obtaining deposit for the on going works and complete the works in hand and handed over to the depositors, the official source added.

In the meantime, referring to the recent comments made by the state Finance department in connection with the abolishing of the two engineering cells of the District Autonomous District Councils of the state, Finance Department has commented that, the proposal talks of completing on-going works by District Councils Engineering Cells (DCEC) and then merging with Manipur Tribal Development Corporation (MTDC). If all on-going works are completed then its is presumed that there will be no balance works with DCEC. The proposal also mentioned reappropriating the regular staffs to the respective district councils. In other words, once the above is completed, the DCECs have neither any pending works nor regular staff to be taken care of. The only residual transfer is of contractual staff, who is any case do not have any claim to merge with MTDC. The opinion of proposal is ab-initio impracticable and lopsided.

The official source further mentioned that, in order to facilitate the process to merge the district council engineering cell into the MTDC Ltd. no deposit for fresh works should been entrusted with the DCECs.

The official source also mentioned that, those regular employees of both Technical and non technical from the six ADCs utilized in the CDECs excepting the Executive Engineering whose service belongs to Sadar Hills ADC, may be reappropriated to their respective district councils and those contractual staffs may be transferred to MTDC after completion of the on-going works in consultation with MTDC.

The official source also further mentioned that, the official merger and modalities of the DCEC with MTDC regarding status of officers and staff may be worked out within the current financial year, the official source added.

HIV among high risk groups falling in Manipur

IMPHAL, Sept 27 – HIV/AIDS prevalence rate among the high-risk groups like Intravenous Drug Users (IDU), Men having sex with Men (MSM) and Female Sex Workers (FSW) has come down in Manipur during the last one decade.

Officials of the Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) claimed this during a State-level workshop on HIV/AIDS for media persons here recently.

Dr Kh Pramodkumar, Project Director (Technical) said, the prevalence rate among IDUs has been reduced from 70 per cent to 17.9 per cent in the last one decade. Likewise, such trend is also seen in other high risk groups, he cliamed.

However, HIV/AIDS being a very complex epidemic on it’s dynamics, infection rate among the pregnant mothers is comparatively increasing in Manipur Hills though it has decreased in the Valley districts, he said.

But the prevailing infection rate among the FSWs and MSMs are not encouraging as the prevalence rate among these groups is slowly rising in Churachandpur and Imphal West districts.

According to MSACS’s latest sentinel surveillance reports, Manipur with as many as 25,655 HIV positive cases, has become the second Indian State having very high HIV prevalence among female sex workers (12.9 per cent) after Maharashtra (17.91 per cent). In 2006, the prevalence rate was just 11.6 per cent. Similarly, the prevalence rate of MSM in 2006 was only 12.4 per cent but it reached 16.4 per cent in the following year.

Project Director Pradeep Kumar Jha of MSACS said getting HIV/AIDS does not mean it is the end of life. He also sought support from the media while covering 80 per cent of the State’s population under National AIDS Control Programme III which is being implemented in the region.

In this new programme, National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) is trying to focus more on the district level activities than the State by instituting district AIDS control units.

Such district units were formed in Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland as the epidemic continues unabated in these States. But some NGO leaders and media persons demanded immediate review of the 13 year-old State AIDS policy to accommodate the present requirements.

MSACS officials confirmed the receipt of a recommendation by a review committee.

Central team assures action

Imphal, September 27 : The official team of the Central Vigilance Committee which is currently at Imphal on a three-day visit to the State to oversee the mechanism of Public Distribution System has given its assurance to help in setting up fair price shops by the women-folk of Luwangsangbam Awang Leikai under Heingang Assembly Constituency in Imphal East District.

For the second day, the official team of the Central Vigilance Committee which arrived at Imphal yesterday, conducted public hearing at Hotel Imphal here today.

During the public hearing, representatives of the Imoinu Self Help Group, Luwangsangbam Awang Leikai complained that they have been receiving only 10 kgs AAY and BPL rice each and one or 2 litres of kerosene oil.

However, after 10 years and on learning about the visit of the Central Vigilance Committee, they were given 5 kgs of APL rice yesterday.

Further, pointing out that they have no place where they could lodge complaint in connection with denial of PDS items, the women representatives requested permission for opening a fair price shop to be run by themselves.

After listening to the complaint as well as request, the Committee chairperson explained that atleast Rs 1 lakh would be required for opening a fair price shop.

When the chairman inquired whether they would be able to arrange the money, the womenfolk promptly replied in the affirmative.

To this, the chairman suggested that opening of just a fair price shop selling only PDS items would not be enough and they should consider including everyday items like soaps, utensils, etc.

The chairman asked the womenfolk to submit an application if they intended to open the fair price shop.

Accordingly, an application in the name of Imoinu Self Help Group had been submitted.

Taking a cue from the proceeding hearing, the Luwangsangbam Matai Women's Welfare Association also submitted a similar application requesting for opening a fair price shop.

Representatives of Kongpal Mutum Leikai, New Checkon, Tamenglong Public Forum and social workers from Churachandpur district were among those who attended the public hearing.

From the side of Tamenglong Public Forum, it was complained that the PDS items allocated to Tamenglong district are being sold in black market and earning profit by the staff of SDO office.

It was also pointed out that last year, NSCN (IM) intercepted 10 rice laden trucks from Noney along National Highway 53 and the same were seized by the FCS Minister the following day and kept inside the police station.

However, no action had been taken up by the police and how the matter had been resolved is not known.

The complaint from the side of the social workers of Churachandpur district noted that PDS items are not being received by the people in time as there is problem of transportation.

In another complaint, it was pointed out that families under polling station no.4/3, Kongpal Mutum Leikai in Imphal East district are in possession of APL, BPL and Annapurna cards together.

The PDS items like rice and sugar were not provided to the beneficiaries in accordance to the cards with the agents maintaining that the card system is not applicable any more.

After the public hearing, the Central Vigilance Committee visited some of the fair price shops in Imphal East district and interacted with their agents to understand how the PDS items are being made available to the people and the difficulties being faced by the agents apart from explaining the measures to be taken up by the Government to improve the PDS system.

Impact of conflict on women discussed

Imphal, September 25 2009: Understanding the existing laws is essential to overcome difficulties being faced by women in conflict situation, Judicial Magistrate A Nautuneshwari Devi has stated.

Speaking as one of the guests of honour at the 14th foundation day celebration of All Manipur Democratic Women's Association at Manipur Press Club here today, Nautuneshwari observed that Manipuri women have been suffering under the impact of various conflicts right from the family to the issues of the State.

Ill-treatment and harassment is one of the biggest conflicts that womenfolk have been encountering in the family.

Over and above this, there is the conflict of lack of adequate food provisions, conflict of unemployment, armed conflict, etc.

In all these conflicts, it is the womenfolk who suffer the most.

In order to overcome these problems, every person and the womenfolk themselves in particular need to understand the existing laws, she said.

The foundation day function held under the theme of 'Problems of women in conflict situation in Manipur and education & social change' was attended by head of Political Science Department, Manipur University Prof Ksh Bimola Devi as chief guest and president of All Manipur Democratic Women's Association Y Romola Devi as functional president.

Principal of Standard Robarth Higher Secondary School, Canchipur Ph Landhoni; former presidents of All Manipur Democratic Women's Association Th Thambalngoubi Devi and M Landhoni Devi; vice presidents of the Association L Taruni and Y Chandrabala Devi were also present as guests of honour.

In her address, Prof Ksh Bimola explained the word conflict has positive as well as negative connotation.

"If the conflict is positive, then it would lead to the path of development and if it is negative nothing but disaster.

"Since 1980, people of Manipur have been reeling under the impact of negative conflict.

Associate Professor of Economics Department, Manipur University Chinglen Maisnam, who attended the function as one of the resource persons, pointed out that over 6 lakh women in Manipur are still illiterate.

All Manipur Democratic Women's Association should pay attention towards the education of these illiterate women so as to utilise their power and strength.

Many advocates, college teachers and Meira Paibi leaders who were invited as resource persons also spoke on the theme of the conflict and the problems being faced by the women in Manipur.

Central vigilance team to overview PDS in state

Imphal, Sept 24 : A team of the Central Vigilance Committee will overview the reported irregularities prevailing in the publict distritbution systems, PDS, in the state during their two days visits to the state.

According to an official source, the Central team is head by Justice DP Wadhwa, chairman of the committee along with four other members, including Dayan Krishnan, head of the committee’s legal team, Meenakshi Chauhan, Maomi Chandra and Shohit Chaudhry all member of the legal team.

The team will arrive in Imphal on September 25.

Official sources further said that the team will hold of public hearings at State Guest House Imphal at 4pm in the evening of September 25, in which interested holders of PDS card, representatives of fair price shops, FPS, dealers association, NGOs, women self-helf groups, transporters and well wishers are invited to participate.

The team would also be inviting suggestions and remedial measures for irregularities and failures of PDS in the state, they said.

An official order issued by the under secretary, department of consumer affairs, food and public distribution said the vigilance committe team will also hold official meetings with the chief secreatry, principal secretary, department of food & civil supplies, officers of state civil supplies corporation as well as other concerned officers, regional heads, FCI etc at confernece hall, Manipur secretariat.

The official, order also further mentioned that the central team will visit fair price shops and will have interaction with members of general public in Churachandpur district head quarter on September 26 morning.

It will also hold formal meeting with the district administrators including, collector/DSO/AM,m FCI and inspection of files pertaining to a minutes of the vigilance committee for the last five years, identification of BPL families for issue of ration cards, camplaint mechanism/enforcement mechanism, appointment of FPS dealers and the commission payable to them and award of tenders for transportion of foodgrians etc.

The order further mentioned the the team after the meeting at Churachandpur will return to Imphal and further have interactions with the owners of fair price shops at Imphal East.

The team will depart Imphal for Kolkata on September 27 afternoon.

Manipur girl molested in Delhi

IMPHAL, Sep 23 : A girl from Manipur was reportedly molested after being beaten up by her neighbours at Munirka, New Delhi last night. According to information received from North East Support Centre and Helpline, the incident occurred at around 11.30 pm when the girl turned off the light in the veranda before going to bed. A lady living downstairs told the girl to keep the light on. Thereafter an argument broke out between them. The girl alleged that the lady’s son came out and beat her up severely and then molested her.

She sustained injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment and later on lodged a compliant report with the local police.

The elder sister of the victim informed the North East Support Centre and Helpline that the lady along with her husband, son and daughter also threatened to chase out all the Manipuris from Munirka.

Meanwhile, spokesperson of the North East Support Centre and Helpline Madhuchandra has spoken to Station House Officer (SHO) of Vasant Kunj Police Station Palbinder to look into the matter.

The police officer also informed the North East Support Centre and Helpline that the second party has lodged a counter complaint of alleged rape attempt by the younger brother of the victim.

This is not the first time that girls from the North East have been assaulted and molested in Delhi.

A number of girls from Manipur have been molested and assaulted by their landlords at the capity city.

Insecure citizens to keep own vigil against gangs

Imphal, Sept 23 : Exposed to constant threats from extortionists and armed gangs, the idea of the civil society arming themselves is become current.

Gaining currency is also the idea of citizen vigil by various localities.

Locals of the New Lambulane area Imphal east district, left with a sense of utter insecurity, have decided gear themselves up to tackle such incidents of intimidation by barring entry of outsiders in the area from 7:30 pm and patrolling duty by the women folk at night in the surrounding area, with the motive to control such menace.

The development came close on the heels of the incident of the attack of a resident contractor and vice president of the Kuki Inpi Manipur, L. Haojakhup on the night of September 17 at round 8:30 pm, by armed miscreants.

While talking to IFP, Tong, an active functionary of the Tribal Youth Club,TYC, New Lambulane, revealed that the decision was adopted by three civil bodies of the locality.

“There was no choice left but to handle it ourselves. This is not the first incidents in the locality. A number of similar incidents including a bomb attack at the resident of a high ranking police officer has taken place,” he said adding, “we are really living in a mess because of such armed gangs, but we are not sure how effective it would be.”

He further revealed that the women folk would be guarding the surrounding area from 7:30pm onwards to check movements of any outsiders with the assistance from local clubs.

Meanwhile, denouncing the attack at the residence of L. Haojakhup, around 200 women folk of the locality staged a sit in protest today at the local market place.

The protestors held placards like “we want peace” “gun is not the solution” “stop gun culture” “live and let live” etc.

According to family sources of L. Haojakhup, the incidents was carried out by three unknown youths around 8:30 pm.

Three rounds fired by the miscreants hit the gate of the residence however there was no casualty or damage.

Further the sources said that there has been monetary demand of Rs. 5 Lakhs from a hill based militant outfits however it was not clear who carried out the incident, said sources.

Manipur hampered in fight against HIV/AIDS

Imphal, September 23 : Manipur has 25,655 HIV Positives reported till date since the year 1986 while number of deaths is 625 and the number of AIDS cases is 4363 in Manipur. Some seven ART centers including one private center in Churachandpur district (south Manipur) where 16000 people living with HIV have registered and more than 5000 are undergoing ART treatment, stated the project director, Manipur AIDS Control Society (MACS), IAS Pradeep Kumar Jha.
He was speaking at the “One-day state level media workshop on HIV/AIDS” on Tuesday at MACS conference hall. Informing that Manipur is one of the six highest HIV/AIDS prevalence states in India, the project director of MACS said that though manpower is very low in MACS the state government is working with the assistance of more than 90 NGOs to control the spread of HIV in Manipur.
Speaking about the achievement of MACS, he said that in the last ten years the spread of HIV through injecting drug users (IDUs) have come down by 17.4%, which is considered to be a big achievement in Manipur considered to be a transit point of drugs smuggled into India from the ‘golden triangle’. The state will open four more new ART centers for which permission has already been granted by National AIDS Control organization (NACO), to enable HIV/AIDS patients to get ART treatment without having to travel long distances, said Pradeep Kumar Jha.
He disclosed that MACS is going to sponsor the “C. C. Meet” which is the biggest football tournament in Manipur, so that MACS can campaign for awareness of HIV/AIDS throughout the state. The brand ambassador of MACS, Pradeep Kumar Singh, ex-senior Mr. Manipur who is a HIV-infected person is getting a stipend of Rs 6000 per month from MACS, he added.
The media guidelines of the Press Council of India for reporting on HIV/AIDS will be translated into the local vernacular and distributed to all the local daily newspaper of the state as soon as possible for the benefit of journalists at various levels, stated the project director of MACS. The Imphal correspondent of Times of India, K. Sarojkumar Sharma spoke on “Issues and challenges faced by media in reporting issues on HIV/AIDS” and highlighted the fact that one of the main challenges faced by the local media in reporting issues on HIV/AIDS is financial constraint as a result of which the quality of reporting is wanting. Most of the local newspapers also do not have reporters for health care issues though they have reporters for other fields, he added.
The editor of local vernacular newspaper “Ireibak” Irengbam Arun Singh said that All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) will try to keep a reporter for reporting health care issues in future and urged MACS to distribute the media guidelines of PCI for reporting on HIV/AIDS as soon as possible. He also urged MACS to hold another workshop to discuss translation of the media guidelines of PCI and added that MACS should check, monitor and update their awareness program and its impact from time to time.

38th foundation day of RIMS celeberated; CM exhorts doctors

Imphal, September 15 : The 38th foundation day of the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal was celeberated in grandeur at the Jubilee hall of the institute today.

Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi who was the chief guest at the celeberations inaugurated the newly constructed semicircular main gate of the RIMS.

He also opened a three-day medical exhibition at the institute.

As part of the foundation day celeberations, graduation certificates were distributed to 91 students by the Chief Minister, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister, Dr Mukul Sangma who was the guest of honour and state Health Minister Ph Parijat who presided over the function.

Director of RIMS, Dr L Fimate administered the Hippocratic oath to the MBBS graduates.

Speaking at the function, Chief Minister Ibobi exhorted the doctors to perform their duty in the interest of the humanity.

He said, Manipur government at present requires at least 400 more doctors.

Because of shortage of doctors, the district hospitals are facing various inconveniences.

Therefore, the government is taking steps to fill up the vacancies, he said.

The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) is the pride of not only Manipur but of all the 'Seven Sisters' of North East India and Sikkim, said the Chief Minister.

The Chief Minister further said that RIMS is today one of the premier medical institutions in the entire country and the doctors of the institute can compete with their counterparts from other institutes of India.

The institute cannot produce many post graduates and specialists due to lack of faculty and infrastructure, but the state government will continue to urge the central government to provide all the facilities lacking in the institute so that it can bring out more specialist doctors and post graduates in future, he said.

Congratulating all the graduate students, he expressed happiness at observing that most of the students who graduated today are females because the government of India has issued clear instructions that each public health service centre should have at least two female doctors.

Deputy chief minister of Meghalaya, Dr Mukul Sangma who graced the occasion as the guest of honour recalled his days as a student in RIMS and said that there were much less privileges and facilities when he was a student of the institute.

He declared that he was proud to be a product of RIMS and stated that whatever he is today, it all started from RIMS.

He asserted that RIMS is the best medical institute in the North East as he has visited and seen all the other medical institutes in the region and added that doctors who had graduated from RIMS are all doing very well in their respective states.

He stated that RIMS is going to be the best institute in India in the near future as there is a lot of room for growth of the institute and the privileges and facilities are increasing more than ever before.

State health minister, Ph Parijat who graced the occasion as the president said that the state is very lucky to have an institute like RIMS which provide doctors to the North Eastern states and the rest of India.

He disclosed that the government of Manipur, as per a cabinet resolution passed recently, is going to recruit 300 doctors through the Manipur Public Service Commission for filling up the vacancies of doctors in the health centers of the state that has been lying vacant for the past many years.

Giving the vote of thanks, the medical superintendent of RIMS, Y Mohen drew the attention of the chief minister and health minister of Manipur to the fact that RIMS has storage capacity for 6 dead bodies only in its mortuary which is not good enough as the number of death bodies sometimes exceeded the storage capacity due to the fact that dead bodies are not promptly taken away by family members and relatives leading to decomposition of the dead bodies and air pollution in the area surrounding the mortuary.