Panel extends agitation against killings

Protesters at the sit-in in Imphal on Friday. (PTI)

Imphal, Feb 28 : The joint action committee and Apunba Lup today announced its third phase of agitation over the killing of three officials following the failure of the Okram Ibobi Singh government to arrest the NSCN (I-M) cadres involved in the gruesome incident.

The action committee, formed by the neighbours and families of the slain officials, and Apunba Lup have been spearheading the agitation against the triple murder.

Sub-divisional officer Thingnam Kishan, his driver Rajen Sharma and chainman Token Singh, were abducted from Ukhrul district on February 13. The trio were found murdered in Senapati district on February 17.

Three other officials who were abducted along with the slain officials were, however, traced by the Assam Rifles and police in a jungle in Ukhrul on February 21.

The Ibobi Singh government is yet to disclose the findings of the interrogations and inquiry by commissioner (agriculture), O. Nabakishore Singh and inspector-general of police (intelligence) L.M. Khaute.

The action committee had set today as the deadline for making public the findings of the inquiries. A public meeting held at Kangjabi locality of the city today decided to continue the peaceful means of agitation demanding criminal proceedings against the suspended Ukhrul de-puty commissioner, Pankaj Kumar Pal, and arrest and trial of the NSCN (I-M) cadres involved in the case.

The NSCN (I-M) had announced that the killings were masterminded by a self-styled commanding officer of the outfit H. Ningshen.

The public meeting convened by the action committee and the Apunba Lup decided to hold simultaneous sit-in protests in front of the gates of the residences of all the 60 MLAs on March 1. The organisations will hold a public rally the next day in Bishnupur district and another rally in Thoubal on March 3.

In another resolution, the meeting called on all government employees in the state to take a day’s casual leave on March 4 as a mark of protest against the killings.

The committee accused the deputy commissioner of conniving with the NSCN (I-M) cadres in the murder case.

In a related development, Manipur Civil Service Officers and Manipur Financial Service officers today staged a sit-in in front of the state secretariat over the killings.

NSCN-IM trying to cover up triple murder case : MNRF

Imphal, February 28 : The Manipur Naga Revolutionary Front (MNRF) has accused the NSCN-IM of trying to cover up the case of triple murder committed by NSCN-IM's cadres.

In a press release, C Rocky, Information and Publicity Secretary of MNRF today quoted the charges levelled against the slain SDO in the confessional statement of the prime accused of the triple murder case, 'Lt Col' H Ningshen of NSCN-IM, which appeared in this newspaper on February 25 under the headline "Three reasons why he killed".

Rocky stated that whether the three charges levelled by H Ningshen against the slain SDO were true or false, he had some reasons to kill him.

But what are the reasons of killing the two subordinate staff, he asked.

Further the MNRF would like to know how the SDO was closely associated with the Naga UG group so called Aleng gang.

How about the NSCN-IM's associatons with government officers of Manipur and levying tax from every government departments, contractors, individuals and businessmen of Manipur, he asked.

Above all these, had not the NSCN-IM served Hebron's recommendations to the bureaucrats of Manipur to award contract works and had not it received positive responses from them, Rocky asked.

He stated that H Ningshen's confessional statement is nothing but an attempt to cover up the NSCN-IM's dirty face and terrorist activities carried out during the ceasefire and peace process.

It is also a political conspiracy to incite communal flare up in Manipur in which the Naga community would be forced to break and pack up.

If the NSCN-IM thinks that having nexus with other Naga UG groups is illegal, why did the NSCN-IM have nexus with the Ukhrul DC as its bank manager, he further asked.

If cadres of NSCN-IM could kill a government officer of Manipur charging him with having link with Naga UG group, why not criminal proceedings be initiated against the Ukhrul DC for having close nexus with the Nagaland based UG group? And why not NSCN-IM be treated as a terrorist group, the Information and Publicity Secretary of MNRF further asked.

He stated that the present SPF government of Manipur has been watching the NSCN-IM's acts of high handedness in the hill districts of Manipur for the last seven to eight years pretending as if nothing was happening in the hill districts.

Development funds of Ukhrul has been obviously siphoned off to the NSCN-IM through the DC even before or during the ceasefire with the Government of India, Rocky charged in his press release.

Moreover the NSCN-IM has been involved in every state election, the press release stated and added if the state government fails to initiate criminal proceedings against the DC Ukhrul for having link with NSCN-IM and also if the Manipur government fails to book and punish the culprits involved in the triple murder case in a befitting manner, it will be assumed that Ukhrul district is counted as a part of Nagaland state by the SPF government and also ceasefire is extended to Ukhrul, Rocky stated.

Two from Class X, 11 from XII exam expelled

Imphal, February 28 : Two students have been caught using unfair means on day one of the state HSLC and HSSLC examinations today by a team of All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU) and Democratic Students' Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) from Heingang centre in Imphal East district.

Speaking to reporters this evening at AMSU head office, DESAM education secretary Thoithoi said that the ongoing Class X and XII examinations are closely scrutinized by fourteen teams, a team comprising of four members each, of AMSU-DESAM.

A team which when to the Heingang High School Centre has come across two students, both HSLC candidates, using unfair means, Thoithoi said while disclosing their roll numbers as 18261 and 18275. Thoithoi said that the two students have carried the English, today's examination paper, question bag inside the examination hall.

He said that the incident happened at the examination centre room number 4 and 5 while also saying that the invigilators were Manichandra Mutum and W Promila respectively.

Thoithoi also said that a lady who identified herself as an SDC has asked the AMSU-DESAM team not to cause disturbance at the centre and told them that it is not their rights to inspect the examination centre.

He said that the it is very unfortunate on the part of the lady who identified herself as an officer to pass such remarks to the team.

He makes it clear that the AMSU-DESAM team has never broke any examination rule while saying that the team is just to check the use of unfair means to make the education system more productive.

Saying that the use of unfair means by students shows that the authorities have sanctioned them to do so, Thoithoi said that there would have been no need of students' bodies.

Addressing reporters, AMSU organisation secretary, W Dhananjoy said that security personnel and examination authority of Imphal College centre have denied cooperation to the team though the members have produced their visit card.

However, he said that the students' bodies will continue to check the use of unfair means by the students while appealing the authorities and the securities not to cause mess to the team.

Meanwhile, eleven candidates of HSSLC exam have been expelled today for using unfair means on the first day.

The expelled students are roll numbers 1489 of Khundrakpam private centre, 9509 of Mayang Imphal private centre, 18359 of Wangoi private centre, 015, 027, 033, 044, 059, 158,6187 and 6161 of Chandel private centre.

Devastated families of murdered men want justice

Lena Phanjoubam and Bedita Khomdram

IMPHAL, Feb 21 : "No more killing of the innocent. No more killing of the righteous. We want peace." This sentiment was unanimous in the anguished voices of all of the bereaved families in the recent outrageous murder of the SDO Kasom Khullen and his two staff.

When an IFP team visited these families, the fury at being affronted so brutally and so meaninglessly has somewhat subsided from their hearts but the grief hasn`t.

They were also overwhelmed by the public support they were getting in fighting for justice.

The SDO Office driver, A Rajen Sharma`s family is the worst hit. Not only are they devastated by the tragedy, but they are already worried about the prospect of a poverty stricken future, the deceased man being the only bread winner.

Rajen`s driver`s salary was keeping the family hearth burning and four young children, an ailing aging mother and wife from starvation. With him gone, they are now stare into an uncertain future in utter despair.

Since the day of his death, as per the Meitei custom which demands no food be taken till the body of the deceased is cremated and turned to ashes totally, they have not been eating.

The adult members of the family have been continuing the fast, as the bodies are still lying in the RIMS mortuary as there has been no conclusive settlement between the JAC and the government as yet.

They however said they are not going to back off from the leadership of the JAC which has done so much for them and will trust in the organisation bringing justice for them.

They also are extremely grateful to the public for their support and their appeal is for them to keep the agitation for justice non-violent.

Thingnam Kishan`s home was thronging with well wishers when the IFP team landed. His younger brother Thingnam Bedprakash, was articulate about what the family wanted � in one word, "Justice".

"We want to also know the motive behind the gruesome murder. He was a peace loving and righteous man. He was brilliant too." He said in deep sorrow.

He lamented that it is always the righteous and upright who meet such fate and removed from the earth. "But for how long?" he asked rhetorically. "Sooner than later, another good man will replace the eliminated good man" he added almost as an afterthought.

He said there should be no communalism generated, instead all communities should fight together for justice as it is happening.

He also wished that the government is able to get at the truth and book the criminals who perpetrated the savagery at the soonest. "It is despicable and cowardly to kidnap and murder people the way his brother and colleagues have been" he grieved.

"Such a fate should not visit anybody else in the future," he said.

The devastated family of Y Token are very definite about what they want too. They are not bothered about the ex-gratia offered by the government. One of the dead man`s sisters told IFP with pride in her brother even in grief that no amount of money in this world can fill the vacuum left by the death of their brother.

Their ailing mother has already suffered a heart attack and they are afraid that it may become too much for her to withstand the tragedy they are in at the moment.

"She has not only been refusing food, but also has stopped taking her medicines or the vitamin she has been on", she cried in utter despair.

Ibomcha's Sanskar selected for National Sahitya Akademi Award

New Delhi, February 20 : The Executive Board of Sahitiya Akademi which met at Rabindra Bhawan on Monday under President Sunil Gangopadhyay approved 16 books for the Sahitya Akademi Translation Award 2008 including Yumlembam Ibomchas Manipuri translation-Sanskar of Kannada litterateur Dr.

U.R.Anantha Murthys novel Samskara.

The books were selected on the basis of recommendations made by selection committee of three members each in concerned language in accordance with the rules and procedures laid down for the purpose.

The prize related to translation of books published during last five years.

The prize carried an amount of Rs.20,000 and an engraved copper plaque.

The awards will be given in August 2009 at a convenient time.

Yumlembam Ibomcha of Keishampat Leimajam Leikai, Imphal was already honoured the National Sahitya Akademi award for the year 1991 for his short story Numitti Ashum Thengjillakli published in 1989.He was honoured the Manipur State Kala Akademi Award for the year 1974 for his poetry- Shandrembi Thoraklo Nahum Ponjel Shabige published in 1974 .

Yumlembam Ibomcha now in Bangalore said that he was happy to hear the news.

He said that the novel was translated in Manipuri as assigned by the Sahitya Akademi, Kolkata and it was published by the Sahitya Akademi.

Samskara, the novel written by U.R.Anantha Murthy,was first published in 1965 in Kannada, A.K.Ramanujan translated it to English in 1978 .

Konkani litterateur Prakash G.Thali also bagged the Sahitya Akademi Translation Award for the year 1994 in the same novel of U.R.Anatha Murthy translated in Konkani language.

Zomi Students Appeal for completion of road construction

By M Kaimuanthang

Churachandpur, Feb 19 : The Zomi Students` Federation, ZSF, has requested all the concerned contractors along the Lamka-Singngat-Sinzawl road being constructed under the NEC to complete their pending works of road, culvert, drainage as well as the protection walls as soon as possible.

It further urged the contractors to ensure that they start the works soon in case they have not taken up the work so far and finish it.

It may be mentioned that widening of the Guite road had been started under the NEC since the past some years but no desireable progress had been made.

While urging the officials to pressurise contractors so that they take up works immediately and finish it, the ZSF has been making appeals based on their findings during the tour they conducted in the recent past.

In a release, the ZSF further urged the PHED department to enable supply of water to all the residents of the town equally at a time when most of the students are at the threshold of writing their final examinations, particularly the Class X students.

It said some tariff had been given by the people of the town for water but some areas do not even have a water pipe so that the water could be made available.

Whie urging the PHED minister, TN Haokip to make necessary arrangements so that sufficient water supply could be made to the public, it questioned whether the consumers would really be satisfied with the messy affair. It termed the project for augmentation of Churachandpur water supply policy of the goverment as a misadventure which could not fulfill the expectations of the public.

Cautioning all NGO`s and firms and any individuals concerned to take up and fulfill any government projects by virtue of their being the implementing agency for the fullest benefit of the public, it said the ZSF would monitor all such projects in the near future and in case there were any loopholes, it said they would never hesitate to take up any course of action it deemed fit against all concerned.

The ZSF in its press release dwelt on many issues of concern and said that the impasse over the post of programme officer, ICDS Churachandpur, to be held by a competent person was a matter of great concern.

In this matter the ZSF`s appeal had been turned down time and again due to favouritism by the government, it said declaring that due to it social welfare and agriculture minister Lokendro Singh who was responsible for the whole affair would be boycotted.

His proposed inauguration of the Vangai Rnag ICDS project on February 19 would also boycotted, it declared.

Manipur Governor condemns dastardly crime

IMPHAL, Feb 19 : The Governor, Gurcharan Jagat, in a statement expressed deep pain and anguish at the cowardly, dastardly and brutal killing of Dr. Thingnam Kishan Singh, MCS, SDO (Kason Khullen) along with his two subordinates, A Rajen Sharma and Y Token Singh after abduction by some unknown persons.

While condemning the act, he also urged upon the state government to take swift and effective action against the perpetrators of this very heinous crime so that the rule of law and respect for authority is maintained.

He also shared the grief with the bereaved members of the families at their time of great loss.

The statement said Dr. Kishan was known to be a man of principles and his death will cause a vacuum not only in the family but also in the state administration and Manipuri society.

He also appealed to the people of the state to come together and share the grief of the families of the deceased and also to firmly resolve they would together work for peace and security so that such incidents are not repeated in future.

Strike over SDO killing total on first day; Man dies of shock; only few vendors venture out; rally taken out in Ukhrul

IMPHAL, Feb 19 : The 48-hours general strike by the JAC against the brutal and inhuman killing of Dr. Kh Kishan, SDO Kasom Khullen and two of his subordinates completely disrupted normal life in the state today.

Although the strike was total and received support from the people of the state, especially in Imphal, during the daytime, some daily wage earners came out in the evening today to sell their goods and earn their meal for the day.

Meanwhile, a person died of BP stroke after hearing the news of the incident on the ISTV news channel. He was identified as Hidangmayum Premchandra, 49, son of late L Borthakur of Aribam Leikai in Imphal east. He is survived by four children and his wife.

The JAC and family members have not taken the dead bodies of the three deceased from the RIMS mortuary till today.

During the 48 hours general strike called by the JAC and civil organisations roads were blocked and vehicles including those of VIPs and security personnel and markets were closed, and educational institutes did not function with some destruction caused in some areas.

The general strike started today morning from 6 am and roads were blocked in almost all of greater Imphal by strike supporters in protest against the killing. Sit-in protests were also staged by Meira Paibis, clubs and organisations and a public meeting was also organised by the JAC.

A public meeting was held today morning at Yumnam Leikai attended by I Hemochandra, MLA from Singjamei; Bijoy Koijam, MLA from Thongju; K Ranjit, works minister; N Biren, IFCD minister; Radhabinod Koijam, MLA from Thangmeiband and president NCP; and RK Anand, MLA Naoriya Pakhanglakpa.

In the meeting, K Ranjit termed the killing as inhuman and beastly and said the culprits must be booked. He said the government came to know of the incident only yesterday and assured that the government would find the culprit at the earliest.

On the other hand, Hemochandra said that the incident could not be taken easily and the protest which included blocking of national highways must be taken seriously by the government and added that if a solution was not brought then a stronger protest may come up.

In the meeting, clubs, organisations, meira paibis and public from Singjamei to Heirangoithong participated and many resolutions were taken including that the DC Ukhrul district must be booked, if the DC Ukhrul district was not arrested the ruling party would be boycotted in the upcoming Lok Sabha election, and removal of the unlawful camps of the NSCN(IM) in Manipur.

Protesters of Nagamapal area including some non Manipuris destroyed some shops of Punsi Keithel at Thangal bazar during the day.

The effigies of NSCN(IM) leaders, DC Ukhrul and chief minister O Ibobi Singh were burnt in some places and three vehicles coming from Tamenglong were blocked at Tera bazar and the passenger faced problem in reaching their home on foot.

The organisations which supported the strike and places where the strike was intense were Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur, Khurai Kongpal Laishram leikai, Khurai Sajor Leikai, Khurai Thongam Leikai, Laipham Khunou Makha Leikai, Meira Paibi Apunba Lup, Chingmeirong Maning Leikai, Chingmeirong Mamang leikai, Thangmeiband Otham Leirak Leikai, Thangmeiband College Gate Apunba Leikai, Khuyathong Bazar Club and Meira Paibi, every household of Nagamapal Phaugie Sangbam Leikai, Nagamapal areas- Lamabam Leikai, Kangjabai, Laikrangbam Leikai, Chugkham Leirak, Lalambung Makhong, Meinam Leikai, Thingen Maru Meira Paibi Lup, Nagamapal RIMS Road, Nagamapal Kwai Brahmapur Leikai, Sagoband Loukhrakpam Leikai.

Around 80 persons of Sagolband Naoremthong stopped their NREGS works and joined the general strike. Other organisations who joined the strike were Naoremthong Nupi Chaokhat Thourang Apunba Nupi Lup, Uripok Polem Leikai, Uripok Ningthokhongjam Leikai, Uripok Ahanthem Leikai, Uripok Khaidem Leikai, Uripok Huidrom Leikai Nganu Leima Women Welfare Association, Sagolband Meino Leirak, Waheng Leikai, Sagolband Salam Leikai, Khagempali Bambul Mapal Women Welfare Association, Yelang Leikai, Singjamei Waikhom Leikai, Kakwa Meira paibi Nupi Lup, Singjamei Sapam Leikai, Singjamei Leishangthem Leikai, Khunai Meira Paibi Kakwa Laiphakpam Leikai, Ningomthong Sairom Leikai Women Welfare Associationn, locals of Singjamei Makha Naorem Leikai, Naorem Leikai Liwa Lambi, and Kakwa bazar.

Singjamei to Lilong United Club Organisation also blocked the roads at Canchipur and Thangapat Mapal Brahmapur Women Welfare Associationn, Brahmapur Apunba Meira Paibi Nahabam, and Kongba Bazar, Wangkhei Angom Leikai, Wangkhei Durga Puja Lampak, Angom Leikai and many other areas took part in the general strike.

In relation to the incident some vendors expressed that they strongly condemned the incident and appealed to the government to bring out the culprits as soon as possible.

They also said they strongly supported the general strike but due to their poverty were forced to earn their daily bread.

They also added that due to the sudden general strike the vegetables they had arranged for sale today would have been lost otherwise causing a greater burden for them.

Elsewhere in the state, a sit-in protest and a rally was staged today by around 1500 students and teachers of Kasom sub-division area in Ukhrul against the brutal killing of the SDO of Kasom Khullen and two other officials.

The protest rally started from Forest Gate, Kasom and went upto the SDO office where many resolutions were taken after a public meeting.

In the rally placards with slogans like, "We want peace not war", "Who killed SDO and staff, we hate the miscreant", "We strongly condemn the killing of SDO and staffs" were carried and slogans demanding the reasons for the killing and release of the remaining officials were raised.

In the public meeting many senior leaders condemned the killing and said that even if the persons were guilty a chance should have been given to correct themselves.

He also added that the newly posted SDO worked for the people and many development works were taken up by him.

The meeting also resolved to continue with the protests till the culprits and the three missing officials were produced.

Other resolutions included release of the three officials on humanitarian grounds, judicial inquiry into the killing, appropriate ex-gratia and a government job to the victims` family, and an end to such inhuman acts on department staff and innocent people of the sub-division.

It also decided to take up various forms of protests and agitations under the Kasom Khullen Sub Division Development Organisation.

Foundation Laid for Tourism Complex

IMPHAL, Feb 16: The foundation stone for a tourism complex was lain today by TN Haokip, minister for tourism department, PHED and information today at the office of the Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association, Lamdan in Bishnupur district.

The tourism complex is to be built with a budget of Rs. 1.14 crore under the Manipur tourism department and TP cell of the cooperative department.

The complex will include an auditorium, adventure club, administrative block, museum, staff quarters and an open air theatre which will be the first of its kind in the north east.

Speaking at the occasion, TN Haokip said that as the complex was going to be the first of its kind in the north east he wanted it to be built very carefully and added that as the area of Lamdan was facing shortage of water, he had planned to take up a water supply project and appealed to the people of the area to preserve the trees.

T Manga Vaiphei, MLA from Henglep also expressed his happiness at the coming up of such a complex and asked the people of the area to give cooperation.

Today`s function was also participated by BB Sharma, secretary of the tourism department, Thaitaungam Maringei, village chief, T Pamei, IAS, Rajkumar Ranendrajit, Yambem Laba and other enthusiasts of mountaineering and trekking.

Churachandpur Students Suspend Stir

M Kaimuanthang

Churachandpur, Feb 18 : The Churachandpur District Students` Union, CDSU, in a press release today said it had temporarily suspended its proposed agitation over the ureasonable transfer of the district superintendent of police, Thanghaulian Gangte soon after he assumed charge recently.

The release while demanding reinstatement of the SP after the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, said in case the promise is not kept, an intensified agitation would be launched.

Thanghaulian has been assigned responsibility as CO of the 2nd MR by an order of the government.

He is a very young IPS officer, energetic enough to handle the task assigned to him and has worked as an SDPO of Churachandpur police, Bishnupur and a personal security officer to the Governor of the state earlier in his capacity as an IPS officer.

HIV/AIDS a development issue too

IMPHAL, Feb 18 : HIV/AIDS is not merely a health issue but a developmental issue says Dr. Kh. Pramodkumar Singh, Project Director (MACS) on the first day of the two days sensitization workshop for co-operative leaders on mainstreaming of HIV in the education and training system of cooperative organised by the International cooperation Alliance and National Council for cooperative Training, New Delhi in collaboration with Institute of Cooperative Management, Imphal under the sponsorship of ICA-AP and NACO.

Dr. Pramodkumar Singh as distinguish guest said that Manipur being a highly prevalent state, and HIV epidemic came into our state since 1990 and it keeps on increasing day by day. for every 200 people, 3 are infected by HIV/AIDS.

He further added that in our state younger age groups are mostly infected by HIV/AIDS.

The younger generations particularly school going children, adolescent and youths should be given general awareness on HIV/AIDS. This can be done by introducing in school, curriculum issues related with HIV/AIDS like sex and sexuality and so on.

Y. Erabot Singh, Minister of Cooperation, FCS, Com & Industries Manipur as a chief guest said that we need to study in depth about the preventive measures of HIV/AIDS. He also said that HIV is more severe than cancer as there is no treatment of HIV/AIDS till now. so awareness and prevention is the best measure.

He further said that India stood second position in relation to HIV/AIDS in the world and in our state Imphal stood first followed by the Thoubal District.

Speaking to IFP exclusively Y. Irabot Singh said that he opened a scheme for the widows and destitute women who were infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. Through his hard work and effort he gain the confidence of 132 widow out of which 37 are found to be HIV infected and from the month of February he started giving Rs. 500 to each of the them plus 100-200 litre of SK Oil and will continue.

Besides the above mentioned dignitaries P.Vaiphei, IAS Secretary Cooperation Govt of Manipur, Kh. Borkeshor Singh Chairman, ICM, Imphal, Savitri, Advisor Gender Programme ICA Asia Pacific, New Delhi and Dr. N. Ranjana Devi Joint Director (P&A), National Council for Coop. Training, New Delhi also attended the workshop.

The programme is being organised with an aim to sensitized the cooperative members on the issues of HIV/AIDS so that they can reach out and create awareness to the masses particularly to the rural areas.

SDO Dr Kishan, two staff abducted by NSCN (IM) found hacked to death at Taphou

48 hr general strike throughout state begins; bandh in Ukhrul and Senapati districts also underway
Triple murder shocks state

Imphal, February 18 : Sub-divisional Officer/Sub-Divisional magistrate (SDO/SDM) of Kasom Khullen Sub-Divsion of Ukhrul district, Dr Thingnam Kishan, kidnapped by miscreants along with five others including three employees of Revenue Department, was found brutally murdered today along with his two staff under the Lukhrabi bridge along the NH-39 in Senapati district.

The killing sparked off anger among the residents of Nagamapal, Uripok and Yumnam Leikai in Imphal where the murdered men hailed from, and a 48-hour statewide general strike has been called from 6 am tomorrow.

The residents also blocked the roads in their respective areas decrying the brutal murder this afternoon.

Separate bandhs have also been called by the district based civil organisations in Senapati and Ukhrul districts.

In Ukhrul, the bandh has started from 6 pm today while in Senapati, it commenced from 8 pm tonight, according to reports received here.

The three men were hacked with a hoe and smashed their heads with rock and other heavy weapons.

Marks of injuries indicating that their heads and faces were hacked with a hoe and smashed with heavy weapons were clearly visible.

Police recovered a bloodstained hoe and some bloodied rocks from the spot where the dead bodies were abandoned after brutally killing them.

Their hands were also found tied at their back with clothes.

The dead body of the 39 year-old SDO, Dr Thingnam Kishan, son of Surendro of Nagamapal Kangjabi Leirak, Meinam Leikai, along with bodies of his driver Aribam Rajen @ Amu (37), son of Ibopishak of Uripok Khoisnam Leikai, Imphal and a Mandal in his office named Yumnam Token (38), son of late Samu of Yumnam Leikai were discovered by the villagers of Taphou Kuki Village under the Lukharabi bridge, located six km south of Senapati Police Station this morning.

Senapati police retrieved the bodies around 7.30 am.

The spot where the dead bodies were found lying is located between the Taphou Kuki village and the battalion headquarter of the 9th Manipur Rifles.

Whereabouts of three other persons�a peon at the SDO office at Phungyar, Ukhrul and two workers, all hailing from Kasom Khullen village, who were abducted together with the SDO on February 13 on their way from Ukhrul district headquarters to Kasom Khullen sub-divisional headquarters, are still unknown.

Among the missing men, one Kapangkhup Jimmik is a peon in the office of the SDO, Phungyar, Ukhrul district, and the other two namely Ramthing Tangkhul and Ramshing Tangkhul of Kasom Khullen are said to be village level workers.

They were abducted by cadres of the NSCN (IM) led by a leader of the group well-known to the general people of the area around 2 pm from the office complex of the DC, Ukhrul, about 2 km from Ukhrul PS, reports said.

The government allotted vehicle, a Gypsy, bearing registration number MNG-04-5799 ridden by the officer of the Manipur Civil Service (MCS) cadre is also still missing, police said.

The officer was abducted with his companions came to the district headquarters to attend a meeting held at the DC office to discuss preparations for the visit of the Works Minister, K Ranjit last Sunday, February 14 at Phungyar, and a meeting in connection with the implementation of the NREGS in the district, reports said.

The meetings were held under the chair of the DC Ukhrul, Pankaj Kumar Pal, the reports added.

While leaving the DC office, Kishan had reportedly told that he would proceed to Kasom Khullen, but according to a staff of the DC office, he had seen the SDO heading towards Jessami.

Regarding the kidnap of the SDO along with his companions from the DC Complex, so far the DC or any of the authority of the office had not lodged any complaint with the police or informed the higher authorities of the state government, sources said.

Instead, they said that he had been on leave since the next day of his visit to the DC office.

Their abduction by the NSCN (IM) cadres came to light only when the SDO was not seen at the gathering at Phungyar on February 14, and SDO's home was informed of his missing by a staff of his office the same day.

Even though nobody has lodged complaint with the police, Ukhrul police took up asuo motu case on the kidnapping of the SDO and his companions around 7 pm yesterday under FIR 8 (2) 2009 under section 365/368/38 of the IPC of the police station.

According to the families of the deceased, the SDO with his driver and Mandal left home on the morning of February 13 around 7 am for Ukhrul district headquarters.

While leaving home, the SDO told his family that he would go to the district headquarter first and then to his office.

On the other hand, a joint meeting of the locals where the three victims hailed from, and members of the families held this evening formed a Joint Action Committee Against the Brutal Killing of SDO, Dr Kishan,Yumnam Token and Aribam Rajen.

Decrying the the incident, residents of Singjamei Yumnam Leikai, Nagamapal and Uripok, where the slain men hailed from, took to the streets on the NH-39 and Imphal-Kangchup road and blocked the traffic.

The blockade continued till late night.

Protesters were demanding clarification from the NSCN (IM) on the reason behind the murder of the three, punishment to the culprits, etc.

They are also demanding release of the three others who are still in the custody of the kidnappers and providing security escorts to the officials posted in the hill areas of the state.

The joint meeting also decided to hold another public meeting tomorrow and not to receive the dead bodies till their demands were fulfilled by the government.

Participants in the meeting had also expressed that NSCN (IM) killed the SDO and his staff for not allowing a demand of the outfit to pay them the funds released for the NREGS job card holders without any condition.

Seminar on saving Sagol Kangjei, Pony begins

Imphal, February 18 : A two-day long seminar on Sagol Kangjei (Polo) and Manipuri Pony being hosted by manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association began today at State Guest House with IPS (Retd) Waikhom Damodar and Director of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services Th Dorendra jointly lighting the inaugural lamp.

highlight of the seminar being participated by about 100 delegates will be presentation of papers by eight experts on preservation of the threatened manipuri pony species and promotion of Sagol Kangjei which had originated in Manipur and today spread throughout the globe.

The inaugural session began with officials of the host Association providing a detailed collection/data with regard to present day status/state of Manipuri polo players and polo clubs as well as relevant information on the origin of the game in Manipur.

In his address as the chief guest, W Damodar impressed upon the gathering on the need to prevail upon the International Olympic Committee for induction of a manipuri native in the polo panel of the international body as a recognition for the game's place of origin.

The former police officer also stressed on the urgent need for retaining the original form of the game through preservation of indigenous accessories used in the past and strongly advocated that the Government contribute its mite to encourage youngsters in sustaining interest in the game of polo.

He expressed strong lamentation that only a handful of polo enthusiasts are involved in the preservation of both the animal species and the game historically connected to the manipuri culture and tradition.

The resource persons in their speeches conveyed of unearthing fossil remains during development work inside the Kangla fort thereby reaffirming manipur as the place of origin of the game.

Manipur House team inspects Khuga Dam

Imphal, February 18 : The Khuga Multipurpose Project which has been under construction for the last many years at Mata village in Churachandpur district was inspected by an assurance committee of the Manipur Legislative Assembly today.

Top officials of the IFCD which have been executing the project assured the visiting inspection team that the project would be completed by March 2010 .

However, the usual practice of hiring local labourers for the day just to impress the visiting VIPs was also visible during today's inspection visit.

Even as construction work of the multi crore project has been dragging on for years, there was no adequate number of labourers.

Only one excavator and a Tata tipper were seen engaged in digging the right canal of the project at a leisurely pace.

Some labourers were also seen cutting grass on either side of the canal.

However, top officials of IFCD submitted a report to the visiting Assembly Committee with an assurance that the project can be completed by March 2010 provided necessary funds are released in time.

Apparently putting faith in the report, the Committee members remarked that construction work of the project was making good progress.

Other than this, they refused to make any further comment.

However, repeated appeals of the media persons to top IFCD officials to provide a detailed report of the ongoing construction work went in vain.

Under the existing condition, it is unlikely that the Department can meet its target of completing the project by March next year.

The right canal of the project which is a basic component of the project is far from over.

Though digging work of the canal is complete.

Levelling work and retaining wall construction have not been initiated yet.

Moreover, construction of buildings necessary for the power house are at its initial stages.

Today's inspection visit of the Assembly Assurance Committee was led by its Chairman MLA W Brajabidhu.

Other members of the team were MLA Ng Bijoy and Th Nandakishore.Speaking to reporters after the inspection tour, MLA W Brajabidhu remarked that construction work of the dam was making good progress.He said that the Committee would urge upon the authority concerned to release necessary funds in time so that benefits of the dam can be availed to public soon.

Tourism Identified As Link between NE India and SE Asia

Manipur Info Centre
NEW DELHI, Feb 18 : “Tourism is the most effective way to increase the still negligible trade between India’s northeastern region and Vietnam. Northeast India and Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia are so near, yet so far,” Jarnail Singh, Secretary of the Ministry of Development of Northeastern Region (DoNER) said at the three day ASEAN North East India Business and Trade Opportunities Summit in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on February 14.
The three-day summit, the first of its kind in Viet-nam, opened on February 12 was organized by the Minis-try of DoNER in association with the Indian Chamber of Commerce, Indian Diplo-matic Mission in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industries bringing toge-ther Government and busi- ness delegates from South-east Asia and eight North- eastern Indian States.
ASEAN North East India Investment and Trade Opportunities Summit came as part of India’s “Look East policy” to build closer ties with Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
Jarnail Singh said the conference focused on tou-rism as the key to increasing Indian-Vietnamese trade. Thirteen tourism compa-nies attending the con- ference showed interest in future cooperation.
Rajeev Singh, Secretary General of the Indian Cham-ber of Commerce, said a key challenge to tourism and trade is the northeastern re-gion’s lack of “proper road connectivity” to Myanmar and the rest of Southeast Asia.
“With good roads; transportation time and cost will be reduced by half and trade will go on,” he said..
Dhananjay Kumar, Chairman of the Indian Business Chamber in Viet-nam, said trade with ASEAN accounts for just 9 percent of India’s overall trade, and with Vietnam, a mere 0.8 percent. A lot of opportu-nities are thus to be seized, he added.
“The Northeast region of India has a lot of com-monalities with development of the Me-kong sub-region.
Given the proximity and land con-nectivity to Southeast Asia, the region can be a connec-ting link between India and ASEAN countries,” said Dr. Govinda Rao, Director of the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy and member of the Econo-mic Advisory Council to the Indian Prime Minister on February 13.
He was speaking on the second day of the Summit, which took place in HCM City, Vietnam.
The eight states in the region, a reservoir of rich natural resources and a beautiful amalgamation of different peoples and cul-tures, are ripe investment destinations with a lot in common with the Greater Mekong Sub-region, accor-ding to Rao.
Rao said the region had low market development, very little manufacturing activity, and low per capita income at 62 per cent of the national average.
However, the region has huge potentials in hydro-power, oil and gas, coal, limestone and forestry industries, not to mention stunning natural beauty and cultural diversity that makes it a tourism paradise, he added.
The region is home to many different ethnic mino-rities, unique traditions and festivals.
Rao said the region nee-ded at least US$30 billion to develop various industries including its agro-proce-ssing, handloom and han- dicraft, bamboo, cement, oil, hydropower, informa-tion technology and tour- ism.
Right now, tourism is the third largest foreign exchange earner for India.
Indian officials are hop-ing to highlight northeast India’s temperate climate, majestic landscapes, pilgri-mage sites, handicrafts, wildlife and high cultural diversity as ideal eco-tou-rism and adventure destina- tions.
“We can co-operate to create a package tour that includes Vietnam and the Northeast of India for U.S, European and Japanese visitors,” suggested Con- rad Sangma, Tourism Minister for the Govern-ment of Meghalaya, one of the eight states in the region.
K.C Nihoshe, Parlia-mentary Secretary for the Government of Nagaland, said: “Vietnamese Govern-ment and the business community should consider the Northeast of India as a true business opportunity.
We know that the two nations have many areas and advantages to co-ope-rate, and we warmly wel- come you to the region. Local governments have pledged preferential poli-cies for foreign investors” he said.
India’s northeastern region shares almost 98 per cent of its borders with China, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Myanmar.
This makes the region a prospective hub for regional and inter-national trade. The region occupies 7.8 per cent of the country’s land mass but only 3.73 per cent of its population.

Tripura Opp for all-party team’s visit to meningitis-hit areas

CORRESPONDENT
AGARTALA, Feb 18 – Expressing serious concern at the death of 47 people due to meningitis outbreak in Dhalai district, Opposition leader Ratan Lal Nath has urged the Tripura Government to send an all-party delegation to the affected areas.

The Opposition leader, who visited meningitis-affected tribal hamlets, said that there should not be politics when people are down with disease and distress.

“I urge upon the government to provide best possible healthcare facilities to the affected villages like Lalcherra, Labancherra, Manikpur and Natinmanu”, he said while addressing a press conference here recently.

Nath also demanded financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh to each victim’s family and free ration for three months to the affected family.

According to him, altogether 47 meningitis deaths were reported from Chawmanu and Manu block areas while more than 600 patients are suffering from the deadly disease.

Nath also sharply criticized the State Government for failing to tackle the situation effectively.

“In fact, people of Langtarai Valley subdivision are dying without any proper treatment. The Health department could not even establish the actual cause of deaths of 47 villagers during the last 19 days”, he said.

He also voiced concern since there was no separate room for meningitis patients in the government hospital.

New journal seeks to give Manipur a global identity

IMPHAL, Feb 17: “We are happy to promote our culture, language and identity globally, and that is why we say, The Manipur Journal is for global identity,” said Mohen Naorem, editor of the Manipur Journal, at the launching function of the journal organized by Team Manipur Journal.
DIPR information director T Sitlhou who was the chief guest of the function, launched the Manipur Journal 2009` today at the Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul and said that with the launching of the journal the whole world would understand and know our hidden cultural traditions which are of great value.
He further said that any venture in public service will not be profitable unless they worked with a true spirit. In his speech as guest of honour, retired IAS and ex-news editor of the AIR, Imphal Seram Mangi said that a number of columnists had started writing in the state but could not last for long. He also feared that the present columnists may vanish slowly.
Kangla Pao chief editor and president in-charge of the Editors Forum, Manipur P Ibochouba in his presidential speech said that to bring out a journal or a newspaper was not an easy task as it requires hard labour and vision to last for long.
College of Agriculture dean and CAU, Imphal Dr N Iboton Singh also attended the function as guest of honour.
Speaking to the IFP, Mohen Naorem said that the journal would be a monthly English journal with an aim to preserve the state’s culture and globalise its identity and to unite the community.
He further added that the journal would also provide a platform for groups that desire global recognition and also the world would know that unity is the hallmark of our large community bordering-China, Myanmar and other South Asian countries. (Agencies)

Foundation stone for ATC at Lamdan laid

Imphal, February 18 : State tourism, IPR and PHED Minister, TN Haokip today laid the foundation stone for construction of Adventure Tourism Complex (TC) at Manipur Mountaineering Institute, Lamdan, an adventure training centre of the Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association (MMTA).

Speaking on the occasion of laying the foundation stone for the complex to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 3.74 crore, TN Haokip said that the site selection at Lamdan for developing an adventure tourism complex is a good choice, and once the work of planting trees and development of a parking lot at the MMI complex were completed, the place will become one of the most beautiful places for tourists in Manipur.

At the same time, he also expressed apprehension of delay in the completion of construction if it was done like that of contractworks with no quality control.

So, he added, authority of the MMTA should utmost care while handling the construction work and present a precious gift to the people of the state and to the tourism department.

He further appealed the villagers around the Lamdan, located at the top of the Thingjing range on the road to Loktak project to check felling of trees and deforestation considering the water shortage problem facing by them and helps in conservation of water perennial use.

Chairman of the Manipur Tribal Development Corporation, MTDC, Manga Vaiphei who presided the function while exploring the beauty of the area said that those who visited the area could get the taste of good and mild atmosphere but if there is shortage of water in the area, villagers and tourists would face problem.

He also observed the need for conservation of the forest in the area for the water to retain for long time and save the area from non-availability of water during the dry season.

He also said that as the tourism complex will be the proud place for the people of Churachnadpur district in general and particularly for the villagers of the Henglep sub-division.

RK Ranendrajit, the founder president of the MMTA also spoke at function said that with the laying of the foundation stone, the long cherish dream of the association come to reality and it will enhance the MMTA in producing more adventurous youths in the state.

He also sought co-operation of the gathering to make the complex one of the most prestigious tourist spot in the country while appealing the concern government officials to discharge their duty sincerely to fulfill the long cherish dream of the people.

Among other, the function was also attended by the chief of the Lamdan village Thitoungam Maringmei, BB Sharma,IAS, secretary/commissioner tourism and T Panmei, IAS, registrar co-operative societies.

MMTA is targeting to complete the development of the tourist complex by 2011 and inaugurate on its 25th foundation day celebration.

Within the complex there would an artificial rock wall cum open air theatre, auditorium, adventure club, lodge, museum cum library, information cum tourist hall, craft market, staff quarter, view tower, eco-park cum golf court, hotel, security barracks, power sub-station, football field etc.

UKLF stance

Imphal, February 18 : United Kuki Liberation Front (UKLF) has dictated that Kuki people should not elect any person who recognises 'Any Kuki tribe' as their representative in the Assembly as well as in the forthcoming Lok Sabha election nor participate in the election campaign of such candidates.

In a statement, information and publicity secretary of the armed outfit Jacob Thadou has also asked the head of the Dept concerned or issuing authority of ST certificate not to accept or issue 'Any Kuki tribe' certificate at any cost.

Moreover, job seekers should not serve 'Any Kuki tribe' certificate and the authority concerned should not entertain such candidates, he added.

Manipur Hills teachers demand 19 months' pay

Imphal, February 17 : With the state government having reportedly failed to pay them salaries for over the last 19 months or so, a Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the All Manipur Autonomous District Council Appointees Teachers Guardians/Parents has alleged that the attitude of the state government under Chief Minister, O Ibobi was the worst form of exploitation towards the minorities living in the hill districts of Manipur.

The JAC has given deadline of nine days for the government to solve the problem of pay.

All the autonomous district councils (ADC) of the hills including Kangpokpi informed NNN that the 835 (eight hundred thirty-five) appointed teachers of the ADCs have in total received only eight months salary so far.

No further salary, arrear or allowances have been dispersed by the concerned department, added the JAC and alleged that this was the worst form of exploitation by the Ibobi Singh led state government towards the minorities of the hills districts.

The JAC also alleged the attitude of the state government has turn anti-tribal in many fronts including the government education institutions and infrastructure developmental programmes.

The JAC also informed that with such attitude of the government, the ADCs are left with no options to call total Manipur bandh and economic blockades along the national highways (NHs) 39 and 53 against the governments negligence and exploitation.

The JAC also called upon the state government to release the salaries, arrears and allowances at the earliest possible and settle the problems faced by the employees for the smooth running of the academic session of 2009 and also for the better future of the hills districts.

Further calling upon the state government for an amicable solution to the mentioned problems, the JAC has called upon the general public to cooperate for the right cause during the JAC's agitation.

Election exercise at district level begins in state

Imphal, February 17 : With the commencement of the exercise for the ensuing 15th Lok Sabha elections-2009 in Manipur, the Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur has directed the deputy commissioners (district electoral officers, DEOs) to identify the list of hypersensitive, sensitive and normal polling stations based on the criteria laid down by the Election Commission and submit the same to his office by February 20 at the latest.

Deputy Commissioners have also been asked to arrange meetings between the Booth Level Officers (BLOS) and Booth Level Agents (BLAs) at all the polling stations on 23rd of this current month (February 23) for verification and rectification of the finally published photo electoral rolls.

The electorate size in the whole of the state is 17,27,240, according to the latest photo rolls published on January 10 last with January 1, 2009 as qualifying date.

Of the total 8,25,019 are under the Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency while the rest 9,02,221 are in the Outer Parliamentary Constituency (ST reserve).

According to the source from the CEO office, the final electoral roll plus continuous updated rolls will be used in the forthcoming 15th Lok Sabha Election-2009, official source said Monday.

Mention may be made that with a hint to make announcement to the schedule of the general elections-2009 anytime in the last week of this current month February, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had convened a meeting with the representatives of all recognized national and state political parties and obtained theirs views/suggestion for smooth conduct of the forthcoming elections.

On received of the instructions from the ECI, in the state too, election authorities have started election exercise after two rounds of meeting (one with all recognized political parties operating in the state and another with the district level police and civil administrative officers) to chalk out strategies for smooth conduct of the election in the two Parliamentary constituencies- Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur Parliamentary, in the state.

The total number of the polling stations in the state has recently been increase by 132 after rationalization exercise was conducted to take the total number of polling stations across the state to 2193.Out of the existing polling stations 970 polling stations are within no.1-Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency and the rest 1223 are in within the no.2-outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency (ST).

The CEO asked the DCs to identify the hypersensitive, sensitive and normal polling station in consultation with the district superintendent of police of their respective districts and submit the same by February 20 at the latest.

The CEO further directed all DCs/DEOs, ADCs and SDOs to conduct physical verification of all polling stations falling under their jurisdiction and submit a status report of polling stations building along with proposal for any repairing (if any) to his office latest by February 20, the official source disclosed.

As in the previous elections in the state Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be used in forthcoming election too and six engineers from Bangalore have arrived in the state and started conducting First Level Checking (FCL) of all EVMs available in all district headquarters (including Jiribam and Kangpokpi) one another.

Works Minister tour remote areas of Ukhrul

Imphal, February 17 : Under the theme of Development for Peace, Works Minister K Ranjit has personally inspected the condition of the remote areas in Ukhrul district from February 14 to 15 .

Remote areas of Kasom Khullen, Phungyar and Sangshak have been covered during the inspection tour of the Minister who was accompanied by representatives of important departments and mediapersons.

Addressing public meetings at Kasom Khullen and Phungyar, the Minister announced that the State Government is planning to develop the road connecting Chandrakhong and Kasom Khullen into a double lane with funding from Asian Development Bank.

Estimation has also been made for providing adequate fund in connection with maintenance of the road so as to improve its present condition, the Minister added.

The Minister also informed that the State Government has already submitted a project proposal to the concerned Ministry of the Government of India for improvement of the road condition from Tengnoupal to Sangshak as the task has been now entrusted to the Public Works Department from the Border Road Organisation.

It is expected that necessary fund would be provided, the Minister said.

Stating that the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh led Secular Progressive Front (SPF) Government is committed to development of both the hill and the valley districts at par, the Works Minister informed that gathering that he has out on the tour of the remote areas at the instruction of the Chief Minister to find out the developmental programmes being faced by people in the remote areas.

During the tour, the Minister also inspected the sites for construction of the office of Sub-Divisional Officer and staff quarters, etc at Phungyar sub-division.

Manipur varsity students lift strike

Imphal, Feb. 16: The stalled interviews for recruiting faculty members to Manipur University will resume on February 28 with the university vice-chancellor Ch. Amuba Singh brokering peace with the striking students last night.

The Manipur University Students Union called off their agitation last night after a memorandum of understanding was signed with the university authority, led by the vice-chancellor.

The agreement included uniform screening process and transparency in the subsequent recruitment process and speedy promotion of the teaching and non-teaching staff members, whose promotions were due under the career advancement scheme.

The vice-chancellor, pro-vice-chancellor and the registrar, according to the agreement, should ensure that lapses in the recruitment process do not recur in the future.

The vice-chancellor and Ksh. Narayan Singh, president of the student union, are among the signatories to the memorandum.

Narayan Singh said the student union would closely monitor the recruitment process.

The student union had stalled holding of the interviews since January 11 for appointments to 16 different posts of teachers, accusing vice-chancellor Amuba Singh, registrar N. Lokendro and pro-vice-chancellor H.N.K. Sharma of committing irregularities in the recruitment process.

Provoked by the cancellation of the interview for one faculty member and postponement of interviews for two others at the eleventh hour on February 10, the students locked the offices of the three officials.

The university authority tried to hold the interviews at a city hotel on February 12. However, the student union foiled the move.

Thoubal wins polo Championsip

Imphal: Thoubal District Polo Association lifted the champion’s trophy defeating Chingkhei Hunba Polo Club (A) 6-1 in the final of the 26th Manipur State Level Polo Tournament at Imphal Polo ground here on Monday, says our sports correspondent.The Thoubal riders showed their grit from the very first chukker, striking home four goals. Chingkhei Hunba, however, came up with a goal in the second chukker.The third chukker saw Thoubal strike home two more goals to seal the proceedings.

Course

Imphal: A 15-day residential AFC ‘C’ Coaching Certificate Course commenced at the Vision India Project Manipur office at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex on Monday. Twenty-two participants, including two from Sikkim, one from Assam, one from Delhi and 18 from Manipur are attending the course.

Tiddim prevail

Imphal: Tiddim Road Unique Gamy Players Union defeated Youth Welfare Club, Thambalkhong, by 2-1 goals in a match of the 3rd Manipur State League played at Eastern Sporting Union, Wangkhei ground, on Monday. In another league match today, United Sporting Association overpowered New Lamka Youth Club by 4-1 goals.

Post MoU, MUSU calls off agitation

Imphal, February 16 : Protest agitation undertaken by the Manipur University Students' Union (MUSU) following alleged irregularities committed by Manipur University authority in recruitment of teachers for the university has been called off.

MUSU called off the agitation after an MoU was signed between MU authority and MUSU on six points at Hotel Anand Continental today evening.

Speaking to reporters after signing the MoU, MUSU president Ksh Narayan said that their agitation has been called off after the MU authority considered their charter of demands submitted earlier and an agreement was made on six points between the two sides during a meeting tonight.

MUSU launched its agitation on February 11 along with sealing offices of the VC, Pro-VC and Registrar for allegedly indulging in gross irregularities during DPC for recruitment of Professors and Lecturers.

The points of agreement signed between the two sides today are resumption of the recruitment process for faculty members in various disciplines which remained cancelled since the afternoon of February 10 from February 28 .

Keeping the number of vacancies for faculty positions unaltered from the figures advertised earlier, adopting uniform screening process/criteria by maintaining transparency and accountability in the subsequent recruitment process and expedition of promotion of university teaching and non-teaching staff who are already due under Career Advancement Scheme are other points of the MoU.

Another point is that the Vice-Chancellor, Pro-VC and the Registrar being top functionaries of the University should ensure that no lapses recur in the recruitment process in future.

The MoU was signed between VC Prof Ch Amuba, Pro-VC HNK Sharma and Registrar L Lokendro from the side of MU authority and MUSU president Ksh Narayan, general secretary Ananda Chongtham and president of MU Research Club Maibam Ratankumar from MUSU's side.

KCP clarifies on lynched youth

Imphal, February 16 : The proscribed KCP has clarified that the youth lynched by the public Wabagai Tera Urakta on February 9 as well as the other youth who was beaten up by the locals in connection with a monetary demand are/were not members of the outfit.

In a statement, H Poirei, information and publicity secretary of the KCP said that what the public did was to rise against impostors who have been misusing the name of the outfit.

The deceased M Premchand alias Swamikumar (20) of Arong Khunou Awang Leikai and the injured M Inao (22) of Yairipok and presently staying at Keirak Tomal Makhong are not related in any way to the KCP, said the statement.

The outfit also assured that in case any cadre of the KCP is found collecting money in the name of the outfit for personal reasons then they would be dealt with sternly.

NPP mooted merging with like-minded NE parties

Imphal, February 16 : The meeting of the Naga National Party (NNP)with other frontal wings of the party held on February 11 has decided to merge with like-minded regional political parties in the north eastern region, said a statement of the party today.

The meeting was held under the chair of Ng Hungyo, president, NNP discussed at length on the prevailing political scenario of the country with special reference to the political problems facing by different communities living in the north eastern region of the country, it said.

The meeting took serious note on the insurgency problems facing by the people of the region and inability to solve any of the problems and acknowledging the more than 11 year old cease-fire between the Naga insurgents and other pacts with other underground organizations operating in the region which have shown any positive progress It also observed that all the people of this region are all divided on political parties and there is no consensus on any political issues which led to non-achieving of any consolidated support to the people's movement.

Considering that it is mandatory that all politicians who have floated different parties need to consolidate into one party and work out together with mutual respect for each other's aspiration and strife for peaceful co-existence, the party decided to merge with other like-minded parties, it said.

The meeting also discussed on the sending out of its candidate in the Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency (ST reserved) in the fourth coming Lok Sabha election in partnership with the other parties with whom the NNP will merge.

The official merger will announced soon, the statement said while calling upon all like-minded individuals or groups/parties to come forward and join hands with them and work together for the common interests of all people of the region.

Locals protest call end to threats to people

Imphal, Feb 16 : Hundreds of five locals on Sunday staged sit-in protest by blocking halfway on the inter district Mayai Lambi road at Wangoi some 20 km away south of Imphal decrying explosion of bomb at a house of an individual of the locality and causing panic to the people.

Suspected militants exploded a bomb at the front courtyard of the resident of one Sagolsem Achouba located only some 80 meter away from the Wangoi police station on the side Mayai Lambi road last at around 7.15 pm.

The explosion caused no casualty but it has panic the people of the area as it was in the thickly populated areas.

The blast took place at the courtyard which is used as work shed of bamboo product like mad and others are making.

The bomb exploded had the workers at the work shed left the place for depositing the equipments, they use after taking hand-off for the day, local report said.

Not satisfied with the act of the suspected militants and fear of repeating the same act, residents of the area gathered since last night and protected the house the whole night last night.

Today, locals of five adjoining localities gathered the house where the blast took place and staged a sit-in protest decrying the act which they considered carried out by the militants who are actively engaging in the extortion of money from the public.

Under the aegis of the recently formed local body called People Protection Committee, a public meeting was convened at the same spot where the protest was carried out and condemned the act of the miscreants which amount to cause panic and fear to the people.

The meeting also reportedly decided to ban entry of non-local people in the locality at the night time.

MUSU suspends strike

Imphal, February 16 : The six-day long strike of the Manipur University Students' Union (MUSU) has been suspended with immediate effect as the striking students arrived at an agreement with the authority of the Manipur University during a meeting held today at Hotel Anand Continental here.

A memorandum of understanding was also signed between the two sides at the meeting between the representatives of MUSU led by its president Ksh Narayan and the authority of the University led by Vice-Chancellor, Prof Ch Amuba.

Pro Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar of the University were also present at the meeting.

Among those things, both sides agreed to start the recruitment process for faculty positions in various disciplines which have been cancelled since February 10 from February 28 with the condition that there will be no reduction or change in the number of vacancies for faculty positions as advertised earlier.

Both sides also agreed to maintain transparency and accountability for uniform screening process/criteria in the subsequent recruitment process for various faculty positions and others in the university and to expedite the promotion of university teaching and non-teaching staff who are already due under Career Advance Scheme (CAS) .

In the meeting the VC, Pro VC and Registrar also agreed to ensure not to recur any lapses in the recruitment process as top functionaries of the university.

In anticipation that the university authority shall honour the resolutions of the meeting, MUSU also agreed to suspend the six day old stir, said the memorandum of understanding signed today in the meeting which aimed at bringing an end to the impasse due to the stand off following the alleged lapse and shortcomings in the recruitment of faculty position and others.

The dean of students' welfare, MU also took part in the meeting.

Court threat over job loss

Arunachal and Manipur employees on the warpath

Itanagar, Feb 16 : The Confederation of Service Association of Arunachal Pradesh has threatened to go to court in protest against the termination of its chairman Geli Kamki and spokesperson Tagom Mibang from service yesterday. The arrest of the two last Wednesday sparked an angry reaction from thousands of striking state government employees, who tried to gherao Itanagar police station last Thursday, prompting the Papum Pare administration to deploy paramilitary forces in the capital. The association’s leaders were booked under the Essential Services Maintenance Act (Esma), which was invoked by the state government last Tuesday, and remanded in seven days’ judicial custody. The deputy commissioner of Papum Pare, Bidol Tayeng, on February 11 clamped Section 144 CrPC banning all meetings involving both the Itanagar and Aalo-based factions of the association. The president of the association, Pate Marik, today said the imposition of a “draconian law” on 86,000 government employees in the state is an “assault” on the common man’s rights and his association would knock on the door of Gauhati High Court in protest against the “unjustified” termination of the arrested leaders. “The invocation of a draconian law like Esma on 86,000 employees in the state is a gross violation of Articles 14, 16 and 309 of the Constitution which ensures right to equality and right to employment in a democratic nation. With the invocation of such an act, obviously for muzzling the voice of employees, the state government had set a bad precedent. We will not sit idle and go to Gauhati High Court in protest against the state government’s decision to terminate Geli Kamki and Tagom Mibang from service yesterday,” Marik said.  He alleged that the state government did not pay any heed to the demands on revision of pay scales that included conveyance, house rent and transport allowances.  A departmental committee of the state administration had recommended to the Union home ministry revised pay structures, commensurate pay package with Assam government employees, for the employees of the state in 1975. Marik said the state government employees, who are under-paid, would boycott upcoming parliamentary and Assembly polls in the state, and would not carry out election duty. The employees have found an ally in the Opposition BJP, which is bent on using the agitation as a poll issue. It has turned the issue of non-implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission’s recommendations a poll plank with MPs Kiren Rijiju and Tapir Gao openly coming out in support of the employees.

Birendra Golf Tournament

Imphal, February 16 : The 8th K Birendra Kumar Singh memorial Golf Tournament organised by Manipur Golf Association was held at Mantripukhri Ecological park today with K Indrajit claiming the overall title in the Category I competition.

The category II crown of the tournament was wrested by Maj Gen AK Choudhury.

In all 18 golfers participated at the tournament, informed PRO IGAR (S) in a statement while adding that a total of 10 prizes were distributed to the position winners of different categories.

The Chief Minister O ibobi Singh, who graced the day-long competition as the chief guest, appreciated efforts put in by the Assam Rifles and Manipur Golf Club at Mantripukhri for the development of the game in Manipur, the PRO release added.

The CM is also informed to have conveyed of a decision to encourage and promote Golf amongst other sports in the State.

O Ibobi also presented equipment to the Mantripukhri Ecological park for assistance to the park authorities in the maintenance and upkeep of the park.

Five including bride injured

Imphal, Feb 16 : Five persons including the bride of a mapam chakkouba ceremony were injured when the van in which they were travelling rammed an electric pole at Sora Chingjin this morning at around 11:20 am.

The persons are from Khongjom Sapam Leikai and were heading towards the chakkouba venue at Wabagai Keirak.

They were admitted at RIMS hospital.

Meanwhile, a person who was undergoing treatment after he was hit by a Honda Activa (MN-01/9944) at Thinungei Makha Leikai along Imphal-Churachandpur road expired at JN Hospital yesterday at around 4 pm.

The person identified as Moirangthem Thoiba Meitei (48) of Thinungei Makha Leikai was hit by the two-wheeler on February 11 at around 9:30 pm.

The dead body of has been handed over to family members after post mortem examination conducted at RIMS morgue.

Mixed feelings for youths ahead of V-Day

Imphal, Feb 13 : With just a day left for the Valentine`s Day, also known by many as "Lovers` Day", it has drawn in mixed feelings amongst the masses especially the youths of Manipur.

A survey by Newmai News Network found that many of the youths in the state have mixed feelings about the day; while some held that it was a day meant to express your love to someone `special`, some held that the concept has been misunderstood and should be rectified while still others felt that it was a whole commercialisation drama. Interestingly, the survey also found that the observation of Valentine`s Day has drastically declined over the last three years or so.

Talking to NNN, Miss. Esther of Imphal, college going student, held that Valentine`s Day was an important day for those in love. "Valentine`s Day is like a love renewal day," she asserted and added that love needs to be renewed once in a while just like driving licenses are renewed. "When the validity of your driving license is over, you have to renew it. Likewise, when you feel that your relationship is slowing down, you need to heat it up and I guess Valentine`s day is a perfect day," Esther maintained.

Agreeing to her statement, Salma, another college going girl, opined that Valentine`s Day was a day of love. She, however, observed that the concept has not been fully understood by the youths of today. "It is not just about love between a boy and a girl, but also a love you share with your parents, siblings, families and relatives and even with your female or male friends," she asserted and added that one should enjoy it that way and not just of a `boy-girl` relationship.

There were also many in the lines of Salma who felt that concept of Valentine`s Day has been misunderstood and is being celebrated in the improper way.

"Generally unlike New Year celebration youths are more eager for Valentines` Day, an important day to make partners and giving a red rose to a girl means a lot. This is the concept that the youths have in their minds," asserted Bosan, a Bsc. II year student of Dhana Manjuri (DM) College.

Lenin, another second year student of the same College observed that besides the trend of romancing on this very day technology had played another role changing the style of celebration. "Romance has over taken the essence of Valentines` Day and greeting cards have been replaced by sending of Recharge Coupons", he observed. Nonetheless, he welcomed the celebration asserting that its real meaning should be to maintain love in the society among different communities.

Joining them, Miss. Lakhibai and Miss. Daina Kumari, students at the Manipur University (MU) were also of the opinion were the day was being celebration with a wrong concept. Asserting it was being observed in a `luxurious way` by many youths of the society, they also opined that it was hampering the moral values and characters of the youths of today due to the misconception.

However, some of the people were of the opinion that just `another day` was being commercialized.

Ashemval, an M. Phil student of the MU opined that all these Valentine`s Day was just a commercialization of just any other day. "Why should someone you don`t even know fix up a day for you to propose someone you love or why should a day be kept aside as a day of love?" he questioned and added everyday could be that day to propose or be a day of love. "There should be no fix day of love or whatsoever. If you are in love, you are in love everyday. This is all commercialization, business of some unknown people" he asserted.

However, amidst all these opinions on Valentine`s Day, NNN also found out that the day has not be celebrated or observed that it used to be three to four years before. This especially in the about 50 percent decreased in the sale of Valentine Day`s cards.

According to Jimmy, owner of a leading greeting cards shop of Imphal East area, Tweety Collection, the percentage of card sales has sharply fallen to about fifty percent during the last few years including New Year and Christmas cards. However, sale of red roses and other gift items have remained the same, informed the shop owner.

Owner of Nicky`s Collections, a gift shop in the Imphal city, also informed that the sale of cards, be it V-day, New year or Christmas, have decreased drastically over the last few years especially after 2005. While asserting that this could be due to the arrival of mobile phones in the state, the owner also observed that it could perhaps be due to the ban imposed on the celebration by some outfits of the state.

However, with less than a day left for "Lovers` Day", love seems to be in the air for some while for others, just another day.

ZU supports suspension of Tamenglong DC

IMPHAL, Feb 13 : The Zeliangrong Union (Assam, Manipur and Nagaland) has said that the people of Tamenglong in general and Zeliangrong in particular have welcomed the suspension of Devesh Deval, DC Tamenglong and the posting of RH Gonmei, a local bureaucrat as DC Tamenglong.

It said that the DC`s suspension was supported by various social organisations as he was responsible for delay in submission of action plan following the development seminar held at Tamenglong under the ministry of commerce, delay in implementation of BRGF, diversion of fund for development of urban infrastructure in hill areas, delay in submission of action plan of multi-sectoral development programme, lack of coordination with the public leaders and his own staff, inept handling of law and order, inefficiency and frequent absence from office, delay in procurement of rice meant for distribution among victims of rodent menace and advance withdrawal of BRGF money amounting to Rs. 28 lakhs.

The people were also against the non-distribution of compensation money to the land owners for construction of NF railway line from Jiribam to Tupul.

The ZU has in light of the above complaints asked for a inquiry from the government`s side and punishment of the suspended DC in case he was found guilty.

Awareness programme teaches law to Moreh public

IMPHAL, Feb 13 : A one-day legal awareness programme was held today at the Moreh Government High School regarding the necessity of every citizen to know the legal norms.

The awareness programme organised by the LMS Law College was participated by SN Haokip, senior teacher at the Moreh Government High School, L Apabi Singh, advisor, ACODOM, S Rahman, selection grade lecture, LMS Law College and Nurjahan Begum, secretary of the Minority Women Development Society as members of the presidium.

S Rahman in his speech said that in a sensitive area like Moreh, an important part of Manipur, the students need to know about the norms. He also spoke about AFSPA, arrest, human rights, drugs and narcotics law, national free legal service and child feticide.

L Babina in her speech said that organising such programmes in a place like Moreh where crime was a daily activity would enlighten the people of the area. She expressed her desire to include all communities in such programmes.

The programme was participated by students of Moreh Government High School, LMS Law College and members of the All Community Development Organisation Moreh, Minority Muslim Development Society, and Nupi Khunai Chaokhat Lamjing Lup, Moreh.

MUSU refutes MU PRO`s statement

IMPHAL, Feb 13 : The All Manipur University Students Union, MUSU, has strongly condemned and denied the statements made by the public relations officer of the university.

The PRO in his statement noted that the University Grants Commission sanctioned a post of professor in physics during 6th plan when the university was a state university. In 2006, after the conversion of the university into a Central university the university decided to revive the post of professor of physics for the sake of growth of the department and in the interest of the students community pursuing higher education in physics.

The PRO further said that an advertisement for this post was issued vide advertisement No. 3/2006 in June, 2006 and as the response to this advertisement was not good enough, the university re-advertised this position vide advertisement No. 2/2008 in January 2008.

In the meantime, it was brought to the attention of the university authorities that the position sanctioned during the 6th plan period ought to stand lapsed as the university had not taken action to fill up this post for more than 20 years.

The university did decide to revive this position in 2006, but the legitimacy of this decision has been questioned, and in order to avoid any legal infringement and embarassment the meeting of the vice chancellor, pro vice-chancellor, dean of science, HOD physics and the registrar held on February 2009 decided to cancel the meeting of the selection committee.

The matter may now be placed before the executive council of the university for a decision and for the post of professor in mathematics the university had to postpone the meeting for want of quorum (only one expert; out of three invited turned up).

The MUSU strongly condemned the statement and the students union is still boycotting the vice-chancellor, pro vice-chancellor and registrar and it is compelled to continue its agitation in protest against irresponsibility as well as mismanagement of resources by the authorities, it said.

The students union also said that there must be lots of wrong doings inside the university and as of now the students union only found out such cases. But the apex body believes that such a case is not the only case the university had faced.

The students union also boycotted the upcoming meeting of the executive which is scheduled on February 15. The MUSU also mentioned that if all the three officials come up and apologise to the union then they were ready to talk on the matter, but until then the MUSU would continue the boycott.

The MUSU also requested the concerned authorities not to carry out any interview personally in private hotels.

The MUSU has no vested interest and they also stand for transparency and accountability, it said while admitting that the present agitation was in the best interest of the students community particularly for the university students and the whole students community in general.

PREPAK says it will hit CM`s men and police commandos

IMPHAL, Feb 13 : The underground PREPAK, in a press release today issued stern warning to the chief minister, Okram Ibobi, to surrender to the party by February 20 and pledge to end the "state terrorism" who it alleged has been unleashed on the people of Manipur through the Manipur Police Commandos and the security forces.

If the chief minister fails to do this, the PREPAK release said its fighters would begin hitting out at anybody close to the chief minister and his government, including his workers, ministers and MLAs at every opportunity available.

It also warned the police commandos they too would be targeted unless they relented immediately and stopped their campaign of terror against the people.

It mocked the forces that the ordinary people are today afraid to venture out of their houses with even Rs. 1000 in pocket for they may be killed for it.

It charged that the commandos and security forces were simply arresting innocent people at will and after robbing them, eliminating them in fake encounters after placing a weapon in their hands.

The release listed the following as some of the innocent killed in the manner:

The Imphal west CDOs and 23 AR killed Salam Gurung, Sagolband Meino Leirak and Soubam Baocha alias Kanta, Sega Road Thouda Bhabok Leikai at Leimakhong Mapal on December 28, 2008.

On January 3, 2009 Yengkhom Surjit, Sandrok was killed at Nongpok Sanjenbam by 32 AR and 115 battalion

Irengbam Kumar Singh, son of I Iboyaima, Churachandpur was also killed on January 2, 2009 by Bpr CDO at Ukhalok.

The teams of Thoubal commandos and 21 AR killed Moirangthem Tomba of Langathel Laikhom bazar at Tejpur Angang Ching on January 11, 2009.

The CDO and 21 AR brutally killed K Thoiba Singh, son of K Sanakhongba of Mahou Tera Village, Chandel at Wabagai Keirak Leirak Achouba.

At Saparmeina Makhan, on January 21, 2009 Imphal west CDO and 39 AR killed L Kunjabihari, Khurai Lairikyengba Leikai and Anand of Top Moirang Kampu.

Arambam Tikendrajit Singh, Sekmaijin Bazar was slain at Kakching Khunou Thongam Nungfou Chingkhong on February 4, 2009 by the teams of Thoubal CDO and 21 AR.

Imphal west CDO and 12 Maratha Light Infantry killed Naorem Bobo, 21, son of N Satya, Luker Mayai Leikai and Ningombam Niranjoy, 22, son of N Tomba, Ngairangbam were also killed only for some few amounts on February 8, 2009.

The release said not only these, many innocents people were also slain in contrived gun fire.

The release said Manipur today has become a society of widows and orphans on account of the "state terrorism" unleashed by the chief minister Okram Ibobi who the party refers to as a "self-styled dictator".

The state is reverberating with wails of lament of near and dear ones of those murdered by the self styled dictator, it said.

The chief minister has also shut his ears to the calls for justice by the people, who are staging protests on a daily basis calling for punishment of killer commandos and army soldiers.

It charged that the chief minister has become deaf to these cries as he eyes only the crumbs of developmental funds thrown at the state by the Delhi government.

Today, the self styled dictator has come to treat the revolutionaries fighting for the restoration of sovereignty to the people as wild beast to be slaughtered mercilessly at every opportunity.

The PREPAK release also called upon all like minded revolutionary organisations to come together to fight this danger posed by state terrorism for failing this would expose all ethnic Manipuris to total extermination.

It said the fight must begin by rooting out the Congress government led by the chief minister, Okram Ibobi.

The release also warned that if the CPI which is a partner of the Congress led coalition government in the state does not relent and withdraw support from the government, the party and its workers would also be given the same treatment as the Congress by the PREPAK fighters.

The release further listed a hit list of 143 people, mostly government contractors and Congress workers who are deemed to be close to the chief minister, Okram Ibobi.

At every available opportunity, they would be targeted, the release said.

Short film from Manipur to be shown at Kerala festival

IMPHAL, Feb 13 : A short film `Cease baby`s whimpering cry` produced by the Mayum Networks has been selected for the Indian Festival of Features and Non-features` for the John Abraham National Awards to be held from February 12 to 19, 2009 at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.

The film is based on how poverty affects child rights and the impact of poverty on the children of rural areas of Manipur.

The festival is one of the most prestigious festivals for short and documentary films organised by the Federation of Film Societies of India, FFSI.

The producer of the film is Lokananda Mm, story is by Dr. Dhanabir Laishram and direction is by Romi Meitei while the cinematographer is L Radhamohon and the editor RK Denny.

Bus shelter inaugurated at Leimakhong

Imphal, Feb 13 : General officer Commanding, 57 Mtn Divn, Maj Gen Shakti Gurung, VSM, today inaugurated a new bus shelter at Leimakhong.

The bus shelter was constructed by local people of Leimakhong and Prem Nagar villages with the help of 557 Army Service Corps Battalion of Red Shield Division as part of Military Civic Action Programme, A PIB (Defence Wing) statement informed.

It said the need for such a bus shelter was being felt by the villagers numbering about 2500 for a long time.

Now that the bus shelter has come up, it will protect the passengers, specially women and children from rain and sun, and will also provide them a centralised place to catch bus/van going to Imphal or other places.

Chairman of Leimakhong Village Committee, JK Paite, Chairman of Prem Nagar Village Committee, Man Bahadur Thapa, Chairman of Vengnoum Ex-Servicemen Colony Village Committee Mangkholam Lhouvum have expressed gratitude to the GOC for implementing their request for a bus shelter and agreeing to inaugurate the same today for public use.

Photo Division to hold photo exhibition on state in Delhi Ministry of IB asks state to submit list of completed projects

New Delhi, February 12 : The Photo Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India in association of the Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Manipur is organizing a Photo Exhibition in New Delhi shortly.

The Photo Exhibition will highlight the developmental activities of the Government taken up in Manipur.

In this connection, a team of photographers from the Photo Division is visiting to Manipur shortly to cover the various developmental works in the State.

All the Head of Departments and the Deputy Commissioners under the Government of Manipur are informed to send the list of completed works or projects which are worth to be recorded through photo medium to the Joint Director, Manipur Information Centre, New Delhi, Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Manipur either by fax number.

011-23746361 or e-mail: maninformation @ yahoo.co.in within a week's time without fail.

It is a good opportunity for the people of Manipur that the developmental works taken up by the State Government for the welfare of the people is highlighted in the national capital and also the beauties of the State of Manipur is projected to the people living in the heart of the country.

Mention may be made that the Photo Exhibition organized Photo Exhibition on Jammu and Kashmir at Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts in New Delhi few years back which had drawn a huge crowd.

More demand revoking teachers’ suspension

Imphal, Feb 12 : Asserting that the five principals and the two teachers who were suspended by the state government on reported charges of dissuading their students from participating at the Republic day celebration 2009, the All Manipur Government Higher Secondary Lecturers’ Welfare Association has called for revocation of the suspension order against the teachers before February 20 failing which the association warned of taking up other steps.

During a press meet at Tamphasana Higher secondary School, Imphal on Wednesday, M. Devendro, vice president of the association informed that there was no response from the government’s side since the lecturers were suspended and added that no order has been passed to revoke the suspension order.

The association has been formed under the demonstration of 34 higher secondary schools consisting of 500 lecturers, out of which 340 are reported to be part-timers. M. Devendro, vice president of the association demanded that the suspension be revoke before February 20, 2009 failing which the association would be forced to take up other steps. The vice president however appealed to the various student organizations not to organize any protests which might create any kind of disturbance to the upcoming board exams which has been scheduled for February 27, 2009.

The vice president of the association also informed the lecturers had submitted a petition to Th. Iboyaima, the convener of the Arrangement Committee of the Republic Day Celebration for non-participation due to pressure from certain quarters. In this regard, he urged the government to investigate and punish the education (S) director and the convener of the arrangement committee of the Republic Day celebration and also to revoke the suspension order of the lecturers and the teachers.

Participating in the press meet, N.Arun Kumar, the Secretary of the association urged the government to solve the case and bring up a solution to revoke the suspension order in the interest of the students and ensure that education remains a free zone from any kind of disturbances. Meanwhile, the All Manipur Joint Government Higher Secondary School organized a protest in relation to this matter at the gate of Churachand Higher Secondary School, here in Imphal.

Speaking to the media, Premananda the president of All Manipur Joint Government Higher Secondary School stated that Teachers were second parents and God and that they are more important than the upcoming examinations. He also demanded that their suspension order be revoked.

He further urged the government to solve the insurgency problem of Manipur and also stated under such situation they were afraid to do any work.

Trouble brews in Manipur University

Imphal, February 12 : The Manipur University Students’ Union (MUSU) on Wednesday demanded the resignation of the three officials of the Manipur University (MU) on moral grounds for allegedly conducting recruitment under pressure. The students’ union also banned the recruitment of the professors with effect from Wednesday and asserted that it would not recognize those selected during the said recruitment.

The union also burnt the effigies of vice chancellor, C. Amuba, Prof. HNK Sharma, and registrar N. Lokendra of the university infront of the administrative block of the MU.

Talking to media persons, Ksh. Narayan, president of MUSU informed that they had received information of interviews being conducted in hotels in the Imphal area and added that MUSU would not recognize the selected professors. While condemning the act of the officials of the university, the president informed that the students’ union also demands the resignation of the officials on moral ground.

The president, however, clarified that the ban was only on the three officials and therefore called upon the rest of the staff along with the students to conduct their duties as normal.

During the protest, the MUSU also displayed wall banners that read, “Down with real politics”, “We demand a response from the authority for why they won’t resign”, “They are the assassinators of the future student communities”, “They are vanguard of Anarchism”, etc.

The president further warned that if such activities continue than the MUSU would consider it as an invitation to different forms of agitations.