IMPHAL, September 29: A 12 member team of the Committee on Estimate, Lok Sabha led by its Chairman Francisco Sardinah arrived today in the state capital on a two day visit to inspect works taken up by the North Eastern Frontier Railways and development of textiles in the state.

The team including Lok Sabha MP from the state, Thokchom Meinya arrived at the Imphal airport at 1:30 pm in an Air India flight from Aizwal and was received by the state Chief Secretary PC Lawmkunga and DGP MK Das.

Speaking to the media persons on arrival, Francisco Sardinah disclosed that they have come to the state to monitor how the railways can help and function in the state. The team will also inspect the administration of various departments of the state, he said. 

During their two days stay in Manipur, the team is scheduled to look after the planning and implementation of the Railway project in the state with a special reference to the Jiri Tupul Railway line taken up by the Northeast Frontier Railways and deployment of the textile industry in the state.

The Lok Sabha Committee on Estimate will convene a meeting tomorrow at Classic Hotel in the morning around 10 am. Development Commissioner (Handloom) Government of India, Ministry of Textile Balvinder Kumar is also likely to attend the meeting and is likely to be arriving tomorrow morning.

IMPHAL, Sept 29: The police has registered a Suo-moto case in connection with yesterday’s attack carried out by PLA cadres at 44-AR post D-company located near Kongkan Village, 29 Km South East of Chasad Police Station, Ukhrul District.

Police sources said that the Suo-moto was registered as the AR officials did not lodge any formal complaint with regard to the incident.

To further investigate in this case, a team of police have visited the AR post, informed the source. As per their report, no substantial damage was inflicted by the attack. At the same time, there was no report of any serious injury.

It may be recalled that heavily armed militant numbering around 100 launched an attacked at the AR post yesterday afternoon, which was later claimed by the PLA.

IMPHAL, September 29: Several local organizations of Maklang area today took out a mass rally cum public meeting under the banner “Protection of Women and Children”.

Organised jointly by the Village Woman Coordinating Committee (VWCOC), Local Youth Development Club (LYDC), Maklang Youth Development Club (MYDC), Community Base Organisation (CBO’s), People Organisation (PO), the rally was flagged off at 11:30 am by Maklang Gram Panchayat Pradhan Oinam (O) Inaotombi from the Maklang Bazar area.

Although the rally started off with around 100 locals, several others joined in along the way.

After the rally concluded at the Luker Mayai Leikai Community hall, a public meeting was convened at the spot.

Acting as the spokesperson of the organizations, M Renubala said that crimes against women has been rapidly rising in the state.

Today’s rally and public meeting is a joint effort of the local organizations against Crimes Against Women and Children, she said before appealing to all to join in and support the movement.

She said the organizations will submit a memorandum on the issue to the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and copies will also be submitted to the Union Home minister Sushil Kumar Sinde, state Governor Ashwani Kumar and Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh.

IMPHAL, September 29: A one day block level political convention on National Food Security Act was conducted today at the Sri Sri Radhabinodolal Mandop organized by the Uripok Block Congress Committee.

Addressing the function, MPCC president Gaikhangam said the convention organized by the Congress on the National Food Security Act is to create awareness amongst the people.

The Congress party cannot remain idle and is a responsible party, he said.

Taking a dig at the other political parties, he said there are several political parties which remain silent ahead of the polls, however whenever the elections approach they come out of their hiding.

“The Congress is not such a party”, he said.

Under the leadership of the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and AICC president Sonia Gandhi, several welfare schemes and programmes are undertaken in the country, he said.

He said people should spread the benefits of such welfare schemes to the uninitiated, only then the real benefits of the schemes will reach the people.

He said the fear of losing again to the Congress has made several parties make all the unnecessary noises.

Uripok MLA, L Nandakumar said it is necessary for everyone to fully understand the National Food Security Act for its successful implementation.

People are facing some issues regarding the issuance of cards for the National Food Security Act, he said before appealing to all to bear the difficulties for the present.

IMPHAL, September 29: “Marginal communities like people living with HIV & AIDS, sex workers, transgenders and people who use drugs need to come out and seek legal aid whenever they feel the need to. You have to speak up so that we can serve you”, said W. Tonen Meitei, CJM and Secretary, District Legal Services Authority, Imphal East, while speaking at a district-level legal awareness workshop held in Imphal today.

Encouraging communities to make the most of free legal aid provided by the Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA), he said that many people out of self stigma and fear do not speak up and endure hardship and subjugation quietly. Responding to a query on lack of awareness among communities on legal aid, the CJM encouraged NGOs to approach MASLSA so that awareness programmes can be jointly organized.

Vulnerable communities like People who Use Drugs (PUD), People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV), Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), and Transgenders (TG) representing various community networks and groups and partner NGOs of the Manipur State AIDS Control Organisation (MACS) working in Imphal East took part in the interaction and shared their experiences. They narrated incidents of violation of their rights of inheritance, abuse from law enforcement personnel and sought justice.

Ksh Keshorjit Singh, Advocate & Para Legal Volunteer working at the Legal Aid Clinic, Uripok Cheirap Court Complex, said that since the clinic was set up in 2012, more than 500 cases have been registered and many of these involve rights abuse of people infected and affected by HIV and AIDS and transgenders.

“Our motive is not punishment but to facilitate both parties to mutually come to an agreement so that interests of both are taken care of”, he added.The workshop was jointly organized by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Imphal East, Manipur State AIDS Control Society and Centre for Advocacy and Research. Speaking at the workshop S.K. Victor, Consultant Mainstreaming, Manipur State AIDS Control Society, emphasized the need for a concerted effort, “All stakeholders need to work together so that vulnerable communities access legal aid without difficulty and their rights respected”.

Underlining difficulties faced by communities in accessing legal aid, Victor suggested identifying a programme staff in all partner NGOs to look after legal aid. A referral system can be developed so that whenever legal aid is needed within their area of operation it can be brought to the notice of the District Legal Services Authority, he suggested.

Meena (name changed), sharing her experiences of accessing legal aid said that she heard about free legal aid when she joined Hope Care Network, a state-level network of women infected and affected by HIV & AIDS, in 2011. When her husband died in 2008, Meena was confident she would be able to look after her two children and decided not to ask for help from her husband’s first wife who got everything that was left by her husband.

“Initially, I thought I will take care of my children on my own but it was getting more and more difficult. Through the legal aid clinic I sought for 3,000 rupees out of the Rs 7,000 pension amount that she gets every month. Finally it was negotiated at 2,000 to be paid by fifteenth of every month”. Every month when the amount reaches the clinic, a Para Legal Volunteer would call Meena to collect it. “I am thankful to them (Para Legal Volunteers) for solving it amicably. I was afraid things would turn bad”.

Tonen said that MASLSA and DLSAs have been set up with an aim to protect the constitutional rights of all human beings, vulnerable communities in particular. They can approach MASLSA in Imphal or District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA) in districts concerned for grievance redressal. The government provides free legal aid services to the marginalized and vulnerable populations across the state. Apart from providing free legal aid, the organization will also strive for legal literacy among the needy.

Key recommendations emerging from the discussion include- identification of community representatives and programme staff to look after legal aid, bring to the notice of the Secretary, DLSA, Imphal East, any act of abuse or rights violation taking place in the district, give appropriate directives to the law enforcement and take cognizance of cases of violence faced by the marginalized communities, provide timely access to legal counseling for these marginalized communities through legal aid clinics, under the leadership of DLSA, Imphal East, train community representatives as Para Legal Volunteers to facilitate legal aid. Under MASLSA there are presently six Legal Aid Clinics in Manipur- LMS Law College, Imphal, Royal Academy of Law, Oinam, Chierap court complex, Imphal, Legal Aid Clinic, Malom, Legal Aid Clinic for Marginalised Communities at Palace Compound in Imphal East, and Legal Aid Clinic, Kakching.

IMPHAL, September 29: Addressing a one day state level consultative meeting on issues and concerns of PLHIV in Manipur at Hotel Imphal, organized by the Women Action for Development (WAD), in collaboration with Community Network for Employment (CoNE), Christian Network of Positive Women (CNPW), Manipur and Self Support Group (SSG), Sushil Huidrom State co-ordinator, UNAIDS said that although demands for a separate PLHIV cell have been repeatedly demanded and discussed accordingly at the State Legislative Assembly several times, the demand is yet to be turned into action.

The Manipur State AIDS policy was implemented in 1996, however it is yet to be made functional in the state, he observed.

Addressing the state level meeting, CoNE president Kanta said there are 42116 PLHIV in the state while 698 have died.

He said at present there are 19629 PLHIV in the state using the first line of antiretroviral therapy (ART).

No government hospitals in the state are equipped with the Viral Load testing equipment, he said while adding that the government hospitals in the state cannot conduct CD4 test regularly.

He continued that government hospitals cannot properly maintain medicine stocks.

Secretary MLFA, Dr I Ibohalbi said discrimination of PLHIV is a serious matter. The government has been ignoring the PLHIV, he said and claimed that the annual government report on PLHIV is based entirely on the MACS report and is not collected through surveys.

Meanwhile, the meeting passed several resolutions including demands for the State legislative assembly to table and pass the state HIV/AIDS bill during the upcoming winter session.

It was also resolved to demand the development of mechanisms to provide free diagnostic tests initiation for ART and monitoring; adequate physician especially a gynaecologist for women accessing ART at their respective ART centre; ensuring proper community basic amenities such as drinking water, sanitation, sitting arrangement etc at the ART centre and provision of AAY cards to all PLHIVs residing within the state of Manipur.

IMPHAL, Sept 29: A resolution to urge Central government for immediately holding the fencing row at the Indo Myanmar border at Moreh was yesterday adopted at the meeting of the National Federation of Indian Women, said a press release of the All India Manipur Nupi Marup.

The meeting was held at Belgaum city in Karnataka in which Maisnam (o) Shakhi Devi, Vice president of the National Federation of Indian Women raised the issue of the fencing row in the meeting, it said.

The meeting also discussed among others issues the proper implementation of the Food Security Act, to avail 100 days under NREGA, to contain communal violence, 33 percent woman reservation for Assembly and Parliament seats etc, it said.

IMPHAL, September 29: A book titled ‘’Public Administration Paper II’’ authored by Radhabinod Aribam, IAS and published by KBC Nano Publication Pvt Ltd, New Delhi was released today during a solemn function organized by the Education Enhancement Organization (EEO) held at the premises of the organization.

The book was written by Radhabinod Aribam after the much acclaim first book of the writer ‘’Public Administration Paper I”.

Mentionably, Radhabinod Aribam hails from Wangjing Lamding in Thoubal district. After clearing the UPSC examination in 2011, he became a Maharashtra cadre.

IMPHAL, September 28: The District Health Society, Thoubal and Nehru Yuva Kendra, Thoubal jointly organized a District ASHA Convention, 2013 for workers of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) today at the counting hall of DC Office, Thoubal with T Ranjit, Deputy Commissioner Thoubal who is also the Chairman of District Health Society, Thoubal attending as chief guest.

The programme was also attended by Dr K Rajo, Addl DirectorFamily Welfare Services, Manipur/SNO (ASHA) as president; Dr Kh Radheshyam, Director District Health Society, Thoubal/CMO Thoubal; Dr N Jyentakumar, Member Secy/DFWO and W Imo, community mobilizer RRC N/E, Manipur as guests of honour.

Delivering key note address, H Rishikesh, DPM District Health Society, Thoubal stated that the convention was held to address various issues being faced by workers of ASHA, ways to solve it, workers’ incentives and other welfare programmes where the government could taken up to enhance the workforce of ASHA’s workers.

T Ranjit said ASHA has been the backbone of NRHM adding that the role of ASHA’s workers and its facilitators are of paramount importance in ensuring safety child birth while Dr Kh Radheshyam informed that there are around 365 workers and 18 facilitators of ASHA in Thoubal.

In the technical session of the convention chaired by W Imo, Dr H Shukhdeba, asst prof IGNTU, Manipur of Social Work Dept spoke on ‘’Volunteerism makes the differences’’ while Harris Chongtham, state ASHA programme manager/SHS Manipur deliberated on ‘’The roles and responsibilities of ASHAs’’.

Later, along with organizing various programmes like group discussion and ASHA quiz and staging of a short play acted by workers of ASHA, gifts were also presented to 17 selected ASHA workers of Thoubal district for excellence in their work.   

IMPHAL, September 28: Heavily armed militants suspected to be proscribed People’s Liberation Army (PLA), armed wing of the Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) attacked a post of the 44 Assam Rifles D company located at Konkan Village, 29 Km south east of Cachad Police Station under Kamjong sub-division, Ukhrul district today.

Assam Rifles sources said one personnel was injured in the attack.

Sources said that the attack was carried out by around 100 heavily armed cadres around 2:30 this afternoon. It has been further informed that the attackers came passing through Aisi village bordering Myanmar.

The AR post came under a volley of fire from different directions including several rounds of rocket launchers which reportedly landed inside the campus.

The number of casualties could not be ascertained till the filing of this report. However, villagers nearby the area reported to have seen ambulances rushing towards the AR Post. On the other hand, sources from AR revealed that only one personnel was injured during the attack.

Later in the evening around 6:30 pm, the villagers informed to have heard two loud explosions from the area.

Further reports said that the AR have not officially intimated to the police about the incident. Additionally, heavy rain prevented the police team to advance towards the site, till the filing of this report.

IMPHAL, September 28: Three persons including a mother and son duo were arrested by a team of Thoubal Police in connection with the killing of auto driver A Naveen of Tera Loukrakpam Leirak. The woman, according to the police was arrested for not co-operating and trying to conceal the whereabouts of the two accused.

Auto driver A Naveen was found dead with his throat slit at Senjou Lonjil Irakwa Tangjen Kiyam under Thoubal district during the intervening night of August 27 and 28.

The three arrested persons were produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Thoubal, today. The two male accused have been remanded to ten days police custody while the woman has been remanded to four days police custody. 

Speaking to the media at his office chambers, SDPO Thoubal Lalboi Haokip said that the three accused persons in the murder case of the auto driver were arrested by a team of the Thoubal police led by ASI Th Churachand from their respective residences.

The woman has been identified as Yumnam (o) Yaimabi, wife of Manao of Thoubal Kiyam Siphai Khundongbam and was arrested at around 3pm yesterday evening, said the police officer.

Yaimabi’s son identified as Yumnam Lokeshor (23) and another accused identified as Laishram Kiran alias Nanao (23), son of Ibosana of the same locality were arrested the same night around 11:45 pm, he said. He continued that the mother was arrested for not co-operating with the police during investigation of the case as she tried to hide the two main accused since the past many days. 

The police have filed a case against the three accused under FIR number 158 (8) Thoubal Police station under Section 302/341 Indian Penal Code.

Later in the evening, angry locals of the Thoubal Kiyam Siphai Khundongam dismantled the houses of the accused persons after the three were produced before the court.

IMPHAL, September 28: Family members and neighbours of Th Priyokumar who was arrested by the Imphal West police commandos in connection with last month’s threat on media houses claimed that Priyokumar is innocent and could have been acting under duress.

Th Priyokumar was arrested by a team of Imphal West commandos yesterday from Kakching Khonou. He was produced before the court and remanded to 10 days police custody for further investigation into the case.

Family members and local neighbours today called a press conference at the Manipur Press Club, claiming Priyokumar’s innocence. Jadumai Thokcha, president of the Hiyel Young Popular Club said that Priyokumar is a BE degree holder from the Manipur Institute of Technology and living a simple life working as a technical staff of Infra tel Company and used to work with Airtel Company before that.

He said a local had met with Priyokumar in police custody, this early morning.

Priyokumar told the local that he was threatened by two unknown individuals to carry out the threats.

The two persons were waiting for him in front of his gate about a month back and handed a press note to him asking him to send it to all the media houses, Jadumai said. Following the incident, he scanned the press note and sent it as instructed, continued Jadumai.

Dinamani Sagolsem President of the All Uchiwa Development Association further appealed to the concerned authorities to release Priyokumar if he is found innocent during further investigations.

When asked by the media whether Priyokumar had ever mentioned about a threat before his arrival, Priyokumar’s wife replied in the negative.

KANGPOKPI, September 28: Reigning Miss Bharat 2013 and Miss India North East 2013 Lina Lamneilhing Chongloi was today feted at her home village Haijang today under heavy rainfall at Brig.SK Sharma Playground.

The grand felicitation program was organized by Haijang Youth Club in collaboration with the Village Authority.

Kangpokpi MLA, Nemcha Kipgen and Chairman ADC Sadar Hills Haokholal Hangshing graced the occasion as the chief guest and guest of honour respectively while pastor Seiminthang Chongloi attended the auspicious occasion as Minister of the function.

Kuki Inpi Manipur, various Kuki Village Chief all over the state, Pastors, Reverends from various churches, KSO-SH, Sitlhou Council(India), KSO Churachandpur, Zillai Students' Organization Churachandpur, Zou Students' Organization, Kanggui Town Committee, KWWO, KYU and many others civil bodies from various place all attended the function.

Lina Chongloi the beauty queen while giving credit to the continuous and faithful prayer of her parents behind her success and achievement in her speech thanked the people of Manipur and her society for their support and co-operation.

Speaking at the function, MLA Nemcha Kipgen pointed out that only beauty is not enough to have a prestigious title.

The most important quality to excel needs wisdom, discipline and the quality of being a woman, she said.

"Its time we the women take part in the decision making as well as in various roles in the society", noted the MLA adding that when women are empowered in a men dominated State and Nation, harmony will exist.

The MLA also appealed to the Chairman, ADC Sadar Hills to construct one Community Hall for the denizens of Haijang village while she assured the villagers that she will bear the responsibility in the construction of Bridge over the Imphal river connecting Haijang to the outside world and black topping the only connecting road of the village.

ADC Chairman Haokholal Hangshing while encouraging Lina Lamneilhing Chongloi assured to help her in any possible way for her next preparation for Glory of Universe early next year.

Kuki Inpi Manipur General Secretary Khaimang Chongloi said that among the three community(Meetei, Kuki and Naga) living in Manipur Kuki society is a developing community who excel in every field while adding that now the Kukis should focus on Human Resource Development for a developed society.

The Haijang Youth Club appealed to the state Government to come forward to help Lamneilhing Chongloi in any possible way who is now looking forward to participate in the Miss Glory of Universe contest to be held at Paris early next year.

IMPHAL, Sept 28: The International Day of Older Persons will be held on October 1, 2013 at the premises of Old Age Home, Arubam Ingkhol of Mongshangei Makha Leikai said a press release of the All Manipur Senior Citizen Welfare Association, Imphal.

In connection with the observance of the International Day of Older Persons, a free health camp for the older persons of 60 year above will also be held at Raj Policlinic, North AOC in the morning from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon.

Those senior citizens of having health problem are invited to report to the Camp Receptionist so as to register their names in the registration books so maintained for the purpose, it said.

IMPHAL, September 28: Even as the Ibobi Singh led Government has been in power for three consecutive terms in Manipur, it has failed in all aspects, said the national secretary of Communist Party of India (CPI), Atul Kumar Anjan.   

The CPI national secretary stated this during a press conference held at 11 am Irawat Bhawan Manipur State Council CPI.

He arrived in Imphal today in connection with 117th Birth Anniversary of Lamyanba Hijam Irawat.

Further speaking at the meet, Atul Kumar Anjan said that the current Indo-Myanmar border fencing has been erected 10 kms inside the Indian/Manipur territory. If this continues, an area of around 1000km will be lost to Myanmar, he continued.

While stating that CPI will steadfastly stand against such a move, he claimed that CPI is the only party to raise the issue at the Parliament.

“Ibobi govt is like a kitchen without fire and a hospital without drugs”, he contemplated.

Atul Kumar Anjan pointed out that while the Union cabinet has taken a decision to implement the 7th pay commission, the Ibobi government has not been able to fully implement the 6th Pay successfully leaving behind anomalies in different departments.

Even after India attained 65 years of independence, Manipur is still reeling under injustice as the infrastructure is at zero level, he said while citing, “There is no railway while education is expensive and there is no industry”.

To further bring about peace and development, he observed that the need of the hour is to initiate dialogue with the UG outfits. 

Opining that gun culture will not do any good, he appealed to the armed group to put away their guns away and come to the negotiating table. He also assured all possible help from the part of CPI in pursuing the matter. 

While reacting on the controversial ordinance to negate the Supreme Court verdict on convicted law makers, he announced that the CPI will not sponsor any candidates with criminal backgrounds in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.

CPI State Secretary Dr M Nara and N Brojen, senior member of CPI also attended the press meet.

IMPHAL, September 26 : Exactly 20 years after the 1990s ethnic flare up between the Kukis and the Nagas forced them to scatter in various districts of Manipur,  the erstwhile villagers of Songphal village, Tamei subdivision, Tamenglong district continue to keep alive the non-existent village at least in their spirit.

Songphal village, also called Lhutjachung, was a Kom village reportedly established in 1920.

Now scattered in Churachandpur district, Sadar Hills of Senapati district and elsewhere, the former villagers of Songphal come together on September 25 every year to keep alive the bond that was shared 20 years ago.

On September 25, 1993 the villagers of Songphal had left their village following a quit notice served allegedly by the NSCN-IM. Some villagers chose to go to Churachandpur district while others settled in various villages of Sadar Hills in Senapati district and elsewhere.

However, the villagers did not feel at home in their new villages. They contacted each and every villager and had decided that they would come together at least once in a year to keep alive the bond of love shared in their former village far away in Tamenglong district.

Each year, the venue of the get-together of the former Songphal Kom villagers changes and have chosen to observe the day at New Songphal village in Sadar Hills, Senapati district this year. The erstwhile villagers of Songphal from far-flung Churachandpur district, Senapati district and elsewhere turned up at New Songphal village, Sadar Hills yesterday (September 25) and observed the day.

Chief of New Songphal village, Sadar Hills Vomlal said,"By observing this type of event, we not only able to experience the warmness of ones villagers parted 20 years ago once again but we would also like to show how hard it is to separate from one's co-villagers."

According to Vomlal, the Songphal villagers of Tamei subdivision are now scattered in the Senapati district villages of Iching Kom Keirak, Saikul Kom, Mokokching, Luwang Sangol, Maibung and Ikouphai.

In the south Manipur district of Churachandpur, Songphal villagers have been scattered in Sagang, Khoirentak, Harmantlang and Samu Lamkai he added

IMPHAL, September 26: The visiting PCI team led by its convenor, Kusori Amarnath, as a part of its scheduled plan today met Deputy Chief Minister, Gaikhangam, who also holds the Home portfolio, at his office chamber this evening at 4 pm.

AMWJU’s president Wangkhemcha Shyamjai and other representative of media houses and representatives of other government departments, also took part in the meeting that lasted for over an hour.

The convenor highlighting the growing insecurity amongst the journalist fraternity in the country pointed out that altogether 39 working journalists have been killed in India till date of which 24 scribes were from Assam and seven from Manipur.

In view of the growing threats, he urged the Home Minister, to look into the matter of the safety of the journalists.

While bringing to the notice of the Home Minister that Maharastra is the only state in the country having special legislation to enshrine the freedom of press, the convenor of the sub-committee expressed his desire that the Manipur Government adopt such a mechanism.

Representatives of the AMWJU apprised the Home Minister on the prevailing threat to scribes which has been ongoing for over one month old and expressed its resentment on the part of the government for not taking up any positive actions despite being informed of the threat.

In response to the grievances placed before him, Gaikhangam reassured the gathering that the government is doing its best and added that the authority are exploring avenues to curb such menace.

Meanwhile, the PCI team had an interaction with top security personnel including the DGP of Manipur, representative of IGAR (S) and GOC of the 57 Mountain divisions, and officials of the Home Department.  

The visiting PCI team will leave Imphal tomorrow.  

The PCI had constituted a 10 member sub-committee in its meeting convened on September 19, in the wake of growing threats to journalists across the country. The objective of the committee was to examine the matter in depth under its mandate by the Parliament to preserve the freedom of Press in the country.

The committee has been meeting authorities and media persons in different parts of the country including the north-eastern state. After visiting Assam, Tripura and Shillong and the six member sub-committee led by its convenor, Kurosi Amarnath reached Manipur on September 25.

IMPHAL, September 26: The Passing Out Parade of the 8th batch woman police constable was held today at Manipur Police Training College (MPTC) Pangei, attended by the Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam as the chief guest.

Altogether, 857 out of 908 woman police constables of the 8th batch took part in the passing out parade.

Gaikhangam took the salute of the Passing out Parade.

Addressing the function, Gaikhangam said that in a democratic country, the role of the civil police is very much needed.

He said the police need to maintain good relations with the people, especially since the number of civil police in the state has increased manifold in the last five year according to the need.

Further expressing the need to strengthen the women police in the state, he said in the prevailing situation of violence and crime against the women and children rapidly increasing in the state, the need for women police has risen tremendously.

Women police are much needed when it comes to controlling such violence and crimes related to women and children, Gaikhangnam observed.

He further expressed his belief that the woman constables will contribute a major role in fighting crime against women and children and serve their duties towards the society with dedication and discipline.

Touching upon the topic of the Indo-Myanmar border fencing dispute, he pointed out that the government will not compromise on the state land and will protect the territorial and emotional integrity of the state and continue to face whatever comes up on the issue.

He further appealed to all not to politicise such issues, but instead to remain united and ensure that the territorial boundary of the state is preserved.

Gaikhangam also appealed to the underground organisation not to celebrate their raising day or anniversary with guns and bombs that can harm innocent people.

Five woman constables among the newly passed out woman police Constables were awarded with prizes for their excellence during their training period.

The passing day parade was also attended by DGP MK Das, other high ranking officers of the police department and parents and guardians of the recruited women police Constables.

KANGPOKPI, September 26: Paegent winner Lina Lamneilhing Chongloi was accorded a warm welcome at Tulihal Airport today morning at around 11:30 am by hundreds of fans, family members, near and dear ones particularly from the Sadar Hills Senapati District.

The red carpet for Lina Lamneilhing Chongloi who has won the title of Miss Bharat 2013 and Miss India North East was organized by Kuki Students’ Organization Sadar Hills.

Kangpokpi Town Committee, Kangpokpi Women Welfare Organization, Kangpokpi Youth Club and KSO-SH held a reception at Kangpokpi Bazaar where Addl. Deputy Commissioner Kangpokpi DK. Thangboi Haokip, Addl. SP Kangpokpi Zakir, KTC chairman Chonkam, KWWO president K. Hoinu and KYU Games and Sports Secretary Gogou garlanded the beauty queen amidst thousands of peoples.

From Kangpokpi Bazaar she was escorted upto her native village Haijang which is a 5 Km.drive from Kangpokpi where a simple religious reception was also organized.

Lina will be participating in the Miss Glory Universe,an International Beauty Pageant.

“I am so bigheaded that there are so many peoples in my lovely state Manipur who cares, loves, concern and support me as well as their warmest welcome which I ever had in my life”, shouted Lina while adding that though the state Govt seem to be ignoring me I truly adore and represent Manipur, noted Miss Bharat Lina Chongloi.

“I will again represent my State in the coming Miss Glory Universe-an International Beauty Pageant to be held at Paris London and I will once again glorify my sweet Manipur and bring much laurels and fame for my native state if God’s willing”, noted Lina while she expresses her desire and wish for the support and cooperation from her native state.

IMPHAL, September 26: An Executive Engineer of the Technical and Promotional (TP) Cell, Co-operative department, was found dead inside his vehicle in mysterious circumstances this morning at Bishnupur district.

The victim has been identified as Okram Joykumar Singh, (55), son of (L) O Irabot of Singjamei Thongam Leikai.

Morning joggers found the vehicle (Bolero) half submerged in a drain at Ngaikhong Khunou area around three and a half Kilometre north of Bishnupur police station, informed the police.

Police said that the Bolero bearing registration number MN01-0948 belong to the engineer.

The lifeless body of the victim has been deposited at the RIMS mortuary and a post mortem has been conducted.

However, the body was yet to be claimed awaiting the arrival of the deceased's family members till the filing of this report.

Amidst speculations it could have been a ‘road mishap’, the police have not drawn any conclusion regarding the case.

Reliable sources disclosed that the engineer was found at the back seat of the vehicle while the key of the vehicle was found missing, which invalidates the road mishap theory.

Further unfolding an episode prior to the incident, the same source said that the deceased was last seen at the residence of an acquaintance at Bishnupur District, late last night.

Earlier in the evening, the deceased EE was in the company of five of his associates namely one Pradip, RK Loken, Indrakumar, Bijen and Ranjit, with whom he had a drink at his office complex.

Later, the five shifted their activities to Imphal Hotel.

Joykumar and his associates concluded their drinking activities at the Sangaiprou residence of one of the associates namely Ranjit, informed the source.

There, Okram Joykumar under the influence of alcohol used some abusive words following which, Ranjit’s father intervened.

Moments later the group left Ranjit’s place in the Bolero, while Ranjit stayed back.

The sources further informed that Pradip, RK Loken, Indrakumar and Bijen were dropped at Singjamei Chingamakhong by Okram Joykumar.

Later in the night, Okram Jokumar paid a visit to his acquaintance's house at Bishnupur and left the place only to be found dead at the back seat of his Bolero with the key of the vehicle missing.

A team of the Bishnupur Fire Service personnel further searched the area but found nothing that could give any headway to the case.

IMPHAL, September 26: A health awareness campaign on implementation of Janani Shuraksha Yojana (JSY), Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), strengthening immunization, importance of breast feeding and other related convergent health programmes such as Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTP), National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) and National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) organized by the District Health Mission Society (DHMS) under the leadership of Dr Chambo Gonmei, CMO/District Mission Director, Tamenglong was held at PHC Haochong, PHC Noney, Khundong village and PHSC Nurathel in Tamenglong District from September 23-25.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Azin Maringmei, DMO/Tamenglong stated that anti-malarial drugs and testing kits are available now but the insecticide treated bed nets will be getting shortly adding that shortage of Microscopists at PHC Tamei, PHC Tousem and PHC Haochung has reduced the examination of blood for MPs.

Dr Chambo Gonmei, CMO/District Mission Director also spoke on new schemes and guidelines of JSY, JSSK and the importance of immunization of pregnant mothers and children against the six killer diseases namely TB, Poliomyelitis, Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertusis and Measles.

Taking part in the programme, Dr Jendum Golmei, MO i/c, PHC Haochung also spoke on the importance of breast feeding.

JIRIBAM, September 26: A VIP’s Fresher’s Meet cum Felicitation programme organized by United Tribal Liberation Army (UTLA – SK Thadou) was held today at Muktokhal (Leisangphai) playground under Tousem sub-division in Tamenglong district with K Ibungomacha, UP Pradhan attending as the functional president.

While delivering the welcome address, home secy UTLA (SK- Thadou) hailed village chiefs and leaders who have come from different parts of the state to take part in the function and stated that development would come only when there is peace so at first there is a need to bring in peace.

Chairman SK Thadou said cadres of UTLA (SK Thadou) who could not take part in the home coming ceremony held under the initiative of Shambhu Kumar Singh, Joint Secy (North East) MHA and Suresh Babu, Principal Secretary Home, Govt of Manipur on July 17, have now joined the peace process.

He added the peace process had arrived due to the hard effort of the 22nd AR.

Saying that the initiatives taken up by Jiribam District Demand Committee (JDDC) to confer Jiribam sub-division with full- fledged district is commendable and acceptable, he questioned why leaders of the hills and village chiefs have not been invited to join in the movement.  

He further appealed the village chiefs and leaders of the hills to work sincerely for the service of people and villages.

Later, the participants observed one minute silence as a mark of respect to the deceased cadres of the outfit.

The function was also attended by people leaders, officials and people from different village. 

IMPHAL, September 26: The Co-ordinating Body of Trade Unions, Manipur today in press release said that 12 point charter of demands for the workers of Manipur was submitted to the Governor of Manipur. The 12 points demands mentioned in a memorandum calls for minimum wage not less than Rs 10,000 per month, universal social security cover for all workers, assured pension for the entire working population, same wage and benefits for contract workers as regular workers, strict implementation of labour law, concrete measures to contain price rise, concrete measures for employment generation, stoppage of disinvestment in Central and State PUSs and Undertakings, remove all ceiling on payment and eligibility of bonus/provident fund, compulsory registration of trade unions within a period of 45 days and immediate ratification of the ILO convention Nos 87 and 98, permanent highway protection force on the National Highways in Manipur to protect vehicles and completion of National Highway No 37 construction within the shortest possible time.

It is also mentioned in the memorandum to instruct BRO (BRTF) to complete construction of Roads and Bridges on NH No 37 or engage Military Engineering Services (MES) under the Ministry of Defence for the completion of the highway.

IMPHAL, September 26: Atleast seven cadres of the Kuki National Liberation Front (KNLF) who are to take part in an official homecoming ceremony is reportedly taking shelter at the 6th Dogra regiment Moltuk, under Chandel district bordering Myanmar.

Sources said that the KNLF cadres along with arms and ammunition approached the Dogra regiment on September 24. They brought along one AK-47 with magazine and three live rounds, four AK-56 Rifles along with four magazines and 120 live ammunition and one Kenwood W/T set.

The cadres have been identified as one Khupthang Misao, (51), son of Ravam Misao of Moreh, Hemkholun Haokip of Tuibuong, Zamkhongam Lupho (16), son of Zamthong Lupho of Moreh, Henbeoklen Vaiphei (20), son of Mangpi Vaiphei of Churachandpur, Jangminthang Guite (30), son of Khaidam Guite of Moreh, Seidinphang Sithon (30), son of Bumsul Sithon of Kangpokpi and Nangamkapoo (35), son Pungkholan of Molcham.

The development comes barely a month after the outfit signed the Suspension of Operation pact with the centre and the state governments on September 9, last.

During the official signing of the SoO pact, 50 cadres of the outfit had laid down their weapons before the government.  

IMPHAL, September 26: The Kuki Inpi of Saikul Gangmei (KSIG) and Saikul Area Naga People Organization (SANPO) submitted a memorandum to state Dy Chief Minister Gaikhangam yesterday regarding police district boundaries and police station jurisdiction in respect of Saikul sub division, Senapati District.

President, KSIG, Thangkam Lupheng stated during a press conference at Manipur Press Conference today.

Speaking to media persons, Thangkam Lupheng said that the KSIG and SANPO appreciated the state government policy of opening police stations for security and maintenance of law and order; however, it is discontented with the creation of police district boundaries and the subsequent demarcation of police station jurisdiction according to it, which is a policy of the State Government based on the hidden agenda to dismantle and distort the original district and sub division boundaries.

He further said that it is a covert policy to intrude and encroach upon hill areas in the name of security, law and order, which is acceptable to the people of Saikul sub division under any circumstances.

A Home department notification dated June 14, 2011 said as many as 35 villages of Saikul sub-division have been included under Sagolmang PS, 20 villages under Andro PS and another 34 villages of both Saikhul and Ukhrul under Yaingampokpi PS and Maphou dam police station is placed under the jurisdiction of Imphal East district PS, he said.

He further raised questions whether the government exists for security only of the valley districts or for the welfare and security of the whole state and added if in case it is the latter case than programs and policies should be implemented both in hill and valley equally.

The inclusion of police stations located in Saikul sub- division, Senapati district (Maphou dam police station) under the jurisdiction of Imphal East district police is against all norms, he said.

He continued that demands for immediate cancellation of Home Department’s notification was made immediately and to withdraw all the villages of sub-division included in the police stations of Imphal east district and to include the villages in the Maphou dam police station and purum likli police station (under construction) under the administrative jurisdiction of Senapati district police.

If the government fail to take up appropriate action on the demands within September 30, 2013, the organisations may be compelled to resort to various forms of agitations till the demands are fulfilled, he said.

IMPHAL, September 26: The Lamyanba Irabot Ningsing Thouram Observation Committee (LINTOC), a body formed collectively by All Manipur Progressive Formers Association (AMPFA), Irabot Foundation Manipur (IFM), Joint Students’ Coordination Committee (JSCC) and Loumee Shinmee Apun Lup (LOUSAL) observed the 62nd death anniversary of Lamyanba Hijam Irabot at the Manipur Dramatic Union, Yaiskul police lane hall under the initiative of Protection and Preservation Committee Manipur (PPCM).

Thounaojam Iboyaima, convener LINTOC (president IFM); Joy Nongmaithemcha, co-convener LINTOC (president AMPFA) and Soraisham Dilip Meitei, co-convener LINTOC (vice president LOUSAL) attended as presidium members.

Prof MC Arun of Manipur University, S Rajen Editor of Toknga Daily paper and Dr Dhanabir Laishram spoke at the observation as resource persons.

The formal function started at 11:00 am with the offering of floral tribute to a life size portrait of Hijam Irabot.

Addressing the gathering, Prof MC Arun said that the first half of the twentieth century was a critical phase and the world witnessed major transformations in almost every field including socio, political, economic etc.

Such developments in other place of the world were also reflected in the then feudal Manipur society and influenced the newly emerging educated generation of Manipur society, MC Arun observed.

In such a back drop, Hijam Irabot found an opportunity to transform the ‘subject of the King of Manipur’ into the ‘people’, he pointed out.

He cited such transformation of ‘subject’ into ‘the people’ was first witnessed during the Nupi Lal of 1904, the Kuki rebellion of 1917 and also during the Nupi Lal of 1939.

During his deliberation, Prof Arun mentioned that there were three categories of people in the society, the first one being traditionalists who held the view of keeping the tradition as in the past, the second being the modernists who opted to open the window wide and the third one is a critical group who took the opportunity of the changes while observing the changes and guiding its way for the welfare of the society.

He also observed that the struggles of 1904, 1917 and 1939 were launched by the marginalized people and emphasized that such struggles were not launched by those people who were in the spotlight of the society.

S Rajen, Editor of Toknga elaborated on Irabot’s influence in the 1939 Nupi Lal which was launched against the transportation of local rice outside Manipur by the trading community of Mayang Marwaries.

Dr Dhanabir Laishram observed that Hijam Irabot observations were organized across the state in a mere namesake by not following his political path and ideology.

Thounaojam Iboyaima as a presidium member said that Irabot can be compared with the world leaders like that of Lenin, Mao and Dr Sun Yat Sen.

Meanwhile, the Irawat Celebration Committee observed the state mourning day in commemoration of the 62nd death anniversary of Hijam Irawat at Irawat Bhawan this morning.

Speaking at the observation, Dr M Nara said that Hijam Irawat did immense works for the up-liftmen of the society and to bring peace and equality during his life time.

He appealed to all sections of the society to co-cooperate and unite to follow in Lamyanba Irawat’s footpath and bring a better society.

The Irabot Research & Commemoration Committee (IRCC) Manipur today said in a press release that IRCC along with HIM Charitable Trust, All Manipur Intellectual Forum, All Manipur Rikshaw Drivers’ & Pullers’ Welfare Association, All Manipur Democratic Women’s Front, All Manipur Peasants’ Union, Youth’s League and Students’ League Manipur organised an observation of the 62nd death anniversary of Hijam Irabot at the compound of Irabot Statue at Pishum.

Meanwhile, the Students’ Federation of India, Manipur State Committee, SFI today organized the 12th State Level Patriotic Song Competition commemorating the 62nd Death Anniversary of Jananeta Hijam Irawat today at the Gandhi Memorial Hall.

Renowned lyricist B Jayantakumar Sharma attended the function as the chief guest, SFI/MSC president Th Mocha Singh, Asst Prof Manipur University Dr Chinglen Maisnam, former president, SFI Sarat Salam, CITU convenor, Ksh Shanta,  secy AMDWA Th Sarat; secy DYFI/MSC, S Roma; Former Secretary SFI/MSC Y Ratan Singh was the guest of honour, retd Senior Lecture Govt. Music college Asem Bimola and renown state artiste Lata Maisnam attended as special invitees.

Irawat is one of the most famous personalities of Manipur, B Jayentakumar observed. Drawing attention that many books based on his life have been authored and published, he said students should read such books.

Hijam Irawat had faced several problems for Manipur and his deeds for the welfare of the state remains unparralled, he viewed.

The state is more recognizable of our sports players and artistes and they should play an important role in bringing the needed developmental change in the state, he observed.

Th Mocha said it is not only the students who will suffer, but every section of the society will be affected and parents need to play a big role in encouraging the students towards a peaceful and developed society.

He further appealed to everyone to join in the observation of the day every year.

JIRIBAM, September 26: The JanaNeta Irawat Memorial Trust (JIMET) today organized the 62nd death anniversary of Jana Neta Hijam Irabot at Jiribam Babupara.

The function was attended by president JIMET O Mangi Meetei; general secretary JIMET, N Rajbehari Singh and several other leaders of different organizations and students.

The gathering also offered floral tribute to the statue of Jana Neta Hijam Irabot and observed a two minutes silence in respect of the leader.

IMPHAL, Sept 26: A renowned Manipuri dance performer and actress, RK Shusila Devi passed away on September 24, 2013, said a press release of the Manipur Jagoi Marup.

The press release further said that RK Shusila Devi was a member of the Manipur Jagoi Marup and successfully displayed her performance across the country and abroad.

A condolence meeting was this evening organized at the auditorium of the Manipur Jagoi Marup.

NG Amumcha, president of the Manipur Jagoi Marup presided over the condolence meeting and the members present prayed to God for the departed soul, it said.

IMPHAL, September 25: “Journalists in Manipur are working under pathetic conditions” said Kosuri Amarnath, Convenor of the sub-committee on safety of Journalists Press Council of India (PCI) at Imphal today.

The convener gave his comment during an interview with this reporter after an interaction program held at the Hotel Classic with scribes of Manipur.

The convenor was reacting on AMWJU’s report on journalists who got killed since 1993. The report clearly indicated that of the seven fatal cases, no charge sheets were framed against anyone.

“Journalists in Manipur are working in a pathetic situation and not even a single charge sheet has been filed for any journalist killed in the state” opined Kosuri Amarnath.

Prior to the starting of the interaction, the All Manipur Working Journalist Union, AMWJU presented a memorandum and reports on fatal cases and assault cases in the state.

Kosuri Amarnath further expressed the need to focus on the issues of the North Eastern region by sensitizing the mainstream national media which is often ignored.

He further lamented on the lack of co-operation of the government with the media.

Further during the interaction, representatives of media houses presented their views on issues ranging from attacks and intimidations upon working journalists by the state and non-state actors to pitiable working conditions of the journalists in the state including meagre salaries.

The constant attempt by various insurgent outfits of the state to use the media as a tool for propaganda and closure of media houses due to frequent threats as well as harassment of journalists of the state by security forces were also deliberated extensively during the session.

The visiting convener of the PCI Sub-Committee on safety of journalists also asked the media persons regarding problems faced by media persons due to imposition of AFSPA in Manipur and deliberated over the matter.

IMPHAL, September 25: State Secretary CPI Manipur State Council Dr Nara on Wednesday stated that no one can negate the fact that Jana Neta Irawat was a true leader of the state who had charted out future images of the state.

He was speaking at a function observing the 117th Birth Anniversary of Jana Neta Irabot function 2013 organized by Irawat Celebration Committee (Thoubal, Wangkhem and Khangngabok) held at Thoubal Melaground Community Hall.

Dr Nara further said Irawat was a multi-faceted leader and people could not judge the personality of the leader and spread his ideology to people in one day informing that various discussion and awareness programme on Irawat and blood donation camps are being held in the month of September.

The present society is going directionless where hatred, politics, corruption and dishonest have filled it. Jana Neta was against such things instead he had dreamed and worked for farmers, poor and needy people and women of the state. The leader had always strived for a better Manipur, he noted.

Saying that the great leader had touched on every vital issue on financial, politics, art and culture, religion, sports, poverty and women, Dr Nara said Irawat was the first person who had stood tall for the integrity of the state and worked for the union of hill and valley people.

As part of the function, the observation committee presented simple gifts to elderly persons aged above 80 years.

Meanwhile, the Heirok Local CPI also observed the 117th Birth Anniv of Jana Neta Irawat in a function held at Heirok Part II Laimayum Lampak.

It was attended by chairperson Irawat Celebration Committee N Mangi where a march-pass competition was also held. 

IMPHAL, September 25: The contractual Staff of the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (AMTA), Agriculture Department of Manipur, has announced to launch a series of agitation in protest against the failure of the department to implement the extension term of the staff.

In the first leg of its agitation, the employees will organise a sit in demonstration on September 27 at its office complex of Sanjenthong, Imphal,

Speaking to media in this regard, an insider disclosed that the contractual staffs have not been getting their salary for over four months now due to the non-implementation of their extension term. There are a total of 87 staffs under ATMA.

Further elaborating on the matter, the sources pointed out that 108 staffs were recruited by the Agriculture Department in 2011 on contact basis for one year.

The main objective of ATMA was to assist in the centrally sponsors scheme “Support to the State Extension Programme for Extension Reforms”.

With the contract of the ATMA employees coming to an end, the employees were informed that another extension order was released by the Secretariat Agriculture Department on April 18 last. Despite, the extension order the Director of Agriculture failed to issue any order to sign the contract agreement.

On May 6, another extension approval was issued by the secretariat Agricultural Department, said the sources.

Despite the repeated appeal of the ATMA employees to implement the extension term the authority concerned remained indifferent to the demand, said the sources adding that it warned to launch a series of democratic form of agitation if the demands are not acted upon.  

IMPHAL, September 25: The Pharmacy Department, Government Polytechnic, Takyelpat today observed World Pharmacy Day under the theme “Simplifying your medicine no matter how complex”.

The state has no proper laboratory or specific department to analyse drugs and medicines, said RK Sohansana while attending the function as the chief guest.

People need to understand their drugs and medicines, she continued.

Selection grade lecture N Swarnlata said the drugs and medicines produced today are very much complicated and as such pharmacies should always lend a helping hand to buyers of medicine on what could be a better option.

The department has already submitted a proposal to the state government to attach a drug information centre in the college, she said.

Head of Department, K Bhanumati presided over the function while Librarian K Chaoba attended as the guest of honour, while Selection Grade Lecturer RK Sohansana attended as the chief guest.

Senior lecturer electrical engineer Oinam Dhanabir said that doctors’ have a way of complicating medicine prescription and as such the pharmacies should help the buyers. 

IMPHAL, September 25: Manipur Muslim Welfare Organisation (MNWO) and Pangal Student’s Organisation (PSO) Manipur have handed over the pre-matric scholarship for 21 girls of Scholars English Academy, Keikhu Maning Leikai, today.

Speaking to media persons in this regard, the assistant secretary MMWO, MD Isaac, disclosed that the pre-matric scholarships of 21 minority girls, amounting to 9,900 rupees, was found withdrawn from WAKF Board Manipur without the knowledge of the principal or school authority.

He further informed that a complaint was filed in this regard to the MMWO and PSO, following which it pressured the WAKF Board Manipur. An understanding was reached between the two bodies and WAKF board in handing over the scholarships, he added.

The scholarships for the year 2010-11 was handed over to the minority girls in the presence of the MNWO and Pangal Student’s Organisation.

Terming the deprivation of the rights of minority as unfortunate, he appealed all concerned to work for the up-liftment of the minority and prevent such acts in the future. 

IMPHAL, Sept 25: The fourth edition of Chinjak festival “Chinjak Festival (4) – Regional” will start from October 25 and continue till November 3 organized. The food festival which has over the years seen food lovers throng in for a bite is being organized by the Innovative Youth Society in association with BOSS Juices. Managing Director, Board of Chinjak Festival, Khuraijam Athouba while addressing a press conference at its office today said that this year’s edition will be the first in the state to have participation from various ethnic communities of the North Eastern region namely Sema of Nagaland; Ao Nagas of Nagaland; Karbi of Assam; Bodo of Assam; Khasi of Meghalaya.

The festival will have 35 unique local stalls of the state showcasing the indigenous food of different ethnic communities, he said.

Athouba continued that the objective of organizing the Chinjak festival is to promote the traditional and indigenous food of the region, the Innovative Youth Society will continue to strive for an inclusive participation from all the ethnic communities of the NE states.  

JIRIBAM, September 25: The Jiri United Committee and the All Jiribam Tribal Union today jointly convened a press conference at the office of the All Jiribam United Clubs Association, New Alipur stating that 32 years old PG Mathew, son of (L) Lembui of New Alipur was kidnapped on September 11 last at 8:00 am by some unidentified miscreants near the Lamkhai Bazaar along with the Tata Sumo bearing registration number MN-01-9006.

Addressing the media reporters, the convener of the Jiri United Committee said that PG Mathew has remained untraceable ever since.

The convener said that the kidnapped person has a one and half year old daughter and further urged the kidnappers to release Mathew on humanitarian grounds.

He further informed the media that a 24 hours bandh will be imposed on the NH 37 from the midnight of October 1 if PG Mathew is not released by September 30, 2013.

Meanwhile, police sources said that an FIR has been registered in this regard and arrested five persons who are now under judicial custody.

The prolonged uncertainty of Mathew’s whereabouts has caused serious concerns for the Jiri United Committee and All Jirbam Tribal Union and a memorandum was submitted to the Chief Minister through the local MLA Th Debendra Singh to look into the issue.

IMPHAL, Sept 24: A sub-committee comprising of six members of the Press Council of India (PCI), arrived in Imphal today on a two day visit as part of taking stoke of the perils that journalists face in the country.

The team led by the Convenor of the sub-committee, Kosuri Amarnath, was received at the Tulihal airport by members of the All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) including its president W Shyamjai.

The PCI had earlier constituted a 10 member sub-committee in its meeting convened on September 19, in the wake of growing threats to journalists across the country. The objective of the committee was to examine the matter in depth under its mandate by the Parliament to preserve the freedom of the press. The committee has been meeting authorities and media persons in different parts of the country including the north-eastern state. The delegation had already visited Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura on the same purpose and has informed that it would tour more states in North East.

The team will interact with the journalists of the state tomorrow at Hotel Classic. On September 26, the team will meet the Principal Secretary of Home, Dr J Suresh Babu; Director General of Manipur, MK Das; Commissioner IPR and Director IPR.

IMPHAL, September 24: A Road Opening Patrol team of the 18th Sikh Regiment today recovered a powerful Improvise Explosive Device this morning at Konthoujam Sabal leikai under Patsoi police station from the southern roadside of Highway Number 37, Imphal-Jiribam road.

The bomb was later detonated by a team of bomb expert around noon. According to a police source, the IED weighed around two and a half Kg. Vehicular movement along the road was blocked while the IED was being disposed by the bomb expert team around 12:40 pm.

On the other hand, a team of Imphal East police conducted a sanitization operation to look for explosives inside the Sanjenthong Officers’ Colony and Mahabali jungle along the Imphal River bank area using sniffer dogs and metal detectors of the 40th Assam Rifles. The operation was conducted this afternoon around 1:30. According to the police, the operation was taken up ahead of the Rising day celebration of militant outfit RPF which falls tomorrow.  

Meanwhile, police commandos of Imphal West district nabbed three cadres of RPF/PLA and one cadre of PREEPAK PRO on September 23 from different locations - Urpok Laikhurembi Auto parking, Loklaobung Western Side of Bridge and Paona bazaar Usha Cinema hall respectively, said a press release of the Imphal West district SP.

The apprehended three cadres of RPF/PLA are identified as one Kharibam Robi Singh (41), son of Kh Chaoba Singh of Kadangbam Part I; one Yumlembam Joykumar alias Chaoba alias Thoiba Singh, (32), son of (L) Y Birmangaol Singh of Chandrapur; Jiribam (s/s corporal having army No 2247); Ngangbam Rishikesh Singh (22), son of (L) Ng Gouramangol Singh of Kadangband Part I.

The PREPAK PRO cadre is identified as Telem Boy alias Priyobarta Singh (40), son of (Late) T Puina Singh of Keishampat Aheibam Leikai.

One 9 mm pistol was recovered and seized from the possession of Ngangbam Rishikesh Singh.

In another press release issued by Dr Ak Jhalajit Singh, Superintendent of Police of Thoubal district, the commandos of the district conducted frisking and checking at Lilong Ushoipokpi area and arrested one gang member identified as Md Ithemcha (28), son of (Late) Md Nurulhaque of Ushoipokpi on September 23 at about 8:00 am.

BISHNUPUR, September 24: The Ningthoukhong Project Canal, which acts as a necessary water supply for the Loktak Hydro Power Project since the completion of the National Hydro Power Corporation in 1983, is providing livelihood opportunities to many fishermen of the area.

Altogether 350 individuals from over 270 families of the Ningthoukhong area are getting an avenue to earn some income through fishing in the canal.

At times, the day's fish catch tallies to over 30 kg and it is not uncommon for a person to earn Rs 400 to 700 a day from the sale of the fish catch.

With the earning from the fishing, the fisher folks manage their family including providing for the educational expenses of their children.

However what is interesting that the fisher folk do not sell of their catch in the market. Instead, there is a network between the fishing community of the canal and other well to do families.

Business is conducted through telephonic communication or through personal visits with fish being sold at the rate of Rs 400 to 700 per kg depending on the size and variety.

The peak season of the business is during the month of November and December though the fishermen still earn during the other seasons too.

One Thokchom Shanti Singh (49), son of (late) Th Manikchand of Ningthoukhong Awang Leikai Ward No. 14, who has been fishing at the canal for the last 30 years since the commission of the Loktak Project, informed this IFP reporter that the fishing in the canal calls for hard work even necessitating camping by the river bank a whole night in the temporary sheds.

He expressed that a big or good catch always manages to wash away some of the hardships.

Besides this, he also domesticated poultry items in the camping area which gives not only monetary but also allow him to pass his time more fruitfully during the lean seasons.

Elaborating on the hardships of fishing, Shanti said one needs special skills and the daily expenditure to buy fish baits.

He also mentioned that the preparation of the fish bait is made from atta, butter, kala Jira etc. and appealed for a cold storage godown in the area for storage of the fish.

IMPHAL, September 24: The Manipur University Teachers Association (MUTA) has decided to launch a non-cooperation movement in protest against the inaction of Prof HNK Sarma, Vice-Chancellor MU to fulfill many of the demands of the association such as implementation of HAG scale, appointment of Pro Vice-Chancellor, Finance Officer, Controller of Examinations, various Directors, filling of faculty positions etc as well as non-changing attitude of autocratic style of functioning.

In a statement, the MUTA said the movement will cover everything except the normal teaching and examination activities of PG classes and Ph D course works of the university.

“The non-cooperation movement will continue till October 31 to otherwise the total boycott of the Vice-Chancellor will be launched if the demands are not fulfil by then,” the statement cautioned.

The MUTA executive committee also discussed the prevailing situation in the Manipur Institute of Technology (MIT), a constituent college of the university where the members felt that the situation has gone out of proportion due to the negative attitude of the Principal in-charge and indifferent attitude of the university authority especially of the Vice-Chancellor.

All the members also resolved to appeal to the university authority to bring an amicable solution and resume the normal activities as soon as possible because indefinite suspension of classes will be more harmful than bringing normalcy to the technical institute, it added.

IMPHAL, September 24: The All Manipur Democratic Women’s Association (AMDWA) today inaugurated its fourth Manipur State Conference at the Youth Hostel, Kuman Lampak, Imphal.

The conference will conclude tomorrow.

Speaking at the function President of AMDWA, Y Romola Devi said the association was established on September 25, 1995 and has over 3000 members.

She said AMDWA is affiliated to the All India Democratic Women Association (AIDWA) which has more than six crore members and is the second largest women association in the world.

She further said that AMDWA will fight against AFSPA and will support Irom Chanu Sharmila.

Under the aegis of AIDWA, the AMDWA seeks reservation for women in state assembly and 33 percent seats reservation in Parliament, she said and continued that AMDWA will fight against crime against women and killing of female foetus and discrimination in giving daily wages.

Manipur State Archives, Deputy Director, W Shushila said the crimes against women are atrocities and requires proper understating among the people to check its growth. 

IMPHAL, September 24: A 16 day brotherhood tour - a joint venture of the All India Tribal Student Association, Delhi, its state branch and the Mongoloid People Forum, MPF concluded on Sept 21.

The tour was flagged off on September 5 from Hotel Imphal with the objective of awakening the people from the narrow aspiration and move towards resolving the day to day common problem irrespective of tribe/community.

Speaking to a select group of media persons today, convener, Mongoloid People Forum, Delhi, K Zou said the organizations are moved by the deplorable moral value of the people of Manipur, particularly those who study outside the state.

He said that the slightly privileged people like the govt employees neither had respect for the source of their livelyhood as doctor and nurse seem to have forgotten their ‘principal of medical ethics’ and the teaching of their religion even inside the hospital as proved by the desperate and economically poorer patients of remote area who are not treated well in most hospitals.

“The simplicity and traditional honesty of the common public is badly exploited by some member of our own society”, he says and added that families of govt officials/employees and economically well to do, even influential politicians are holding BPL card/job cards etc whereas homeless people and rickshaw pullers etc. are deprive of their due share and unless we fight together for a reliable administration system, modern health care system, sustainable education system, and innovate ideas of self-employment  we, the people of Manipur and our future will worsen in the coming future, he said.

K Zou concluded by saying that the forum deplores the attitude of the Assam Riffles in recent past, but in the same vein, he said that as civil society we must be aware/alert so that no such act of security force will be tolerated and they should be held accountable to their action.

IMPHAL, Sept 24: The Joint Students’ Co-ordination Committee (JSCC), an apex body of AMSU, MSF, DESAM, KSA, SUK and AIMS has formed a monitoring cell to assess the ensuing College Students’ Union Election 21013-14, informed a press release of the committee.

The monitoring cell has also elected LC Santosh, ex-president DESAM (convenor), Yumnam Pradeepkumar, former president KSA (treasurer) and other seven members and has started taking their jobs.

Further, the committee in its release also appealed to students who are going to contest in the election to follow the code of conduct laid down by the JSCC earlier.

KANGPOKPI, September 23: Three Kangpokpi residents who went to Senapati yesterday were allegedly caught and beaten up severely after they were blind-folded and their hands and legs tied with a rope by unknown persons suspected to be NSCN-IM.

The three have been identified as Thangvanglen Misao (22), s/o Thangtinlal Misao, Kangpokpi Ward No 6, who is a III Semester student of Kangpokpi College; Ginkhomang Hangshing (27), s/o Thangdou Hangshing of Kangpokpi Ward No.6, a Butcher by profession and Mangminlal Sitlhou (29), s/o Mangchon Sitlhou of Kangpokpi Ward No 11,  a mason were released later late night around 9:30 with the initiatives of Senapati Town Committee near traffic point Senapati bazar just in front of the Senapati Police Station.

The Kangpokpi Town Committee members including its chairman Chonkam Kipgen and Kangpokpi Women Welfare Organization members went to pick up the trio and admitted the three at the CHC, Kangpokpi at around 10:30 pm. The three were later taken to Kangpokpi Christian Hospital commonly known as Mission hospital around midnight since they did not show any improvement even after they were administered with proper medical treatment.

According to them, the three went to Senapati yesterday at around 12 noon to one liquor vendor at Senapati bazar.

Recounting their side of the story, they said they got in a bus to return back to Kangpokpi when some unknown persons caught them from behind and asked them to come down from the bus.

Later they ordered the trio to move down the Old Road and when they reached there, the unknown persons blind-folded them started to beat them after tying their hands.

In the meantime, the Kangpokpi Town Committee, Kangpokpi Women Welfare Organization and Kangpokpi Youth Union jointly condemned the unfortunate incident in the strongest terms.

The three organizations have also demanded everyone involved with the incident to clarify over the issue and bring an amicable solution latest by tomorrow to avoid any unwanted incident.

The three also echoed that in case the appeal is not taken seriously, than those involved should be held responsible for any untoward incident arising out of the situation.

SENAPATI, September 23: As many as 40 passengers were injured, five of them seriously when a bus met with an accident today in Senapati district, Manipur.

Reports reaching here said the passenger bus originating from Khongdai in Purul subdivision was heading for Senapati district headquarters when the accident happened between Maram-Purul-Lakhamai road at around 3 pm.

The injured are now being treated at Senapati district hospital while the five critically injured have been shifted to Imphal.

The reports said the cause of the accident was due to the brakes of the bus failing. The bus registration number is yet to be ascertained till the filing of this story.

KANGPOKPI, September 23: The Kuki Students' Organization Sadar Hills today announced its dissatisfaction over the Social Welfare department tender process held on September 7 allegedly in a closed door manner and condemned the O Ibobi led SPF Govt in the highest form terming it of being discriminatory against Hill districts.

The student body president Thangminlen Kipgen stated that earlier, KSO-SH along with Senapati District Student Association(SDSA) had jointly opposed the Social Welfare department tender process.

TRIPURA, September 23: A massive rally of at least 8000 people, mostly youths, held the biggest ever candle-light rally of Agartala on Sunday evening demanding immediate stoppage of renaming Ujjayanta Palace, the erstwhile abode of the Tripura monarchs as Tripura State Museum.

The rally was organized by the Twipra Students Joint federation (TSF) and Joint Action Committee constituted by a number of NGOs including the Indigenous Youth Federation of Tripura (IYFT), Royal Tripura Foundation (RTF) and others.

Meanwhile, anticipating a mass uprising, the cornered Tripura government is a Press release on Monday had stated that the state Museum will be known as “Tripura State Museum,Ujjayanta Palace” and the state government had also agreed to install a statue of the builder of the palace Radha Kishore Manikya very soon.

The civil societies in Tripura in a release stated that it is a moral victory that the government has been finally been cornered on the issue and that they have responded, but the mass movement would continue since there popular demand to name the palace as Ujjayanta Museum.

The palace has been a breeding ground of one of the biggest controversies of recent time for past two weeks or so. The Indigenous Nationalist Party of Twipra (INPT), regional tribal political party of Tripura, first raised the issue over the renaming of the palace.

Deletion of the word Ujjayanta is aimed at hurting sentiments of tribal populace of the state, INPT president Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl said.

Vice President Hamid Ansari is scheduled to inaugurate the museum on September 26.

Hrangkhawl, in a letter to the Vice President recently stated that renaming Ujjayanta Palace is likely to cast serious effects on the indigenous populace if not amended.

The TSF had organized a deputation to Governor of the state, Devanand Konwar on September 21 protesting against the omission of the original name of the palace in its new avatar.

The candle light rally held today is in continuation of the agitation, a leader of the student body said.

The candle-light rally organized by TSF covered over 7 km of the city including several significant public places.

Speaking to reporters at the end of the rally, Pradyot Bikram Kishore Debbarma, current head of the Tripura royal family, who led the rally this evening said, “Ujjayanta Palace is a historical spot. It does not belong to the members of erstwhile royal family alone, neither is it solely belonging to the government. Ujjayanta Palace belongs to Tripura and somebody in the government can’t suddenly impose a decision to change its name one fine morning.”

The to-be museum now sports a large plaque with ‘Tripura State Museum’ written on it at the top of the entrance. There is no trace of Ujjayanta anywhere near it.

Organizers of the rally added that in accordance with section 5 (2), clause C of the Tripura Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1997, the decision of the state government in changing name of Ujjayanta Palace is against the law. They also sought a rethink over the decision if there is any Heritage Conservation Committee formed in the state.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar recently announced, Ujjayanta Palace would be declared a heritage building which brings it under the jurisprudence of the Ancient Monuments and Heritage Buildings Act Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, later amended in 2010. It would be completely illegal to conduct such a name-change which potentially destroys the very identity of the palace, Pradyot Bikram Kishore maintained.

Imphal, September 24: With the discovery of suspended greenish algae in packaged drinking water bottles manufactured by Reliable Hydrotech, Joypur Khunnou under Bishnupur district, the government had been intimated for strict against the firm, stated Department of Food and Safety Commissioner Brojendro Khaba.

In a press meet held at Health Directorate, Lamphelpat, Food and Safety Commissioner Brojendro said that harmful suspended particles had been discovered in the packaged drinking water bottles manufactured by Reliable Hydrotech. He reminded that if any adulterants or harmful substances are found in foodstuff and consumables produced in the state and from outside, the Food and Safety department have the full right to ban the particular product. Under this right, the department had intimated the government for strict action against Reliable Hydrotech.

He also said that “Marina Spring Premier” manufactured by the firm was first found contaminated on September 18-19, 2012 from a pharmacy named Malem Pharmacy, Lamlong and the firm kept producing drinking water under another brand name which was again found contaminated. This incident had given rise to the question whether packaged drinking water producing firms are following safety measures or not.

He said that since the water supply schemes in the state were not functioning properly, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) allowed private firms to start producing safe drinking water by providing them ISI mark while apprising suspicion whether ISI mark is given to the private firms through the back door and whether the guidelines laid down by BIS are followed or not.

IMPHAL, September 23: Two years after the Gauhati High Court Imphal bench pronounced its judgement in favour of Naib Subedar Ramesh Chand Sharma, to allow him to enjoy his deserving benefits denied to him with regard to a service promotion that he was denied of the respondents of the particular case have failed to comply with the judgement till date.

Taking serious note of the failure, the counsel of Ramesh Chand Sharma has served a legal notice to the respondents including Union of India, through the Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi; the Director General, Assam Rifles Government of India, Shillong and commandant 30th Assam Rifles, on September 20 asking the respondents to comply with the court order within three weeks from the date of receipt of the legal notice so as to avoid further legal complications.

Ramesh Chand Sharma (53), son of Wadho Ram Sharma, a resident of Jindwin Village, PO Didwin, PS Bhota, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, Naib subedar presently posted at the IGAR (S), had filed a case at the Gauhati High court, against the three mentioned respondents. Ramesh Chand Sharma was serving as a Havildar when he filed the case.

As per the legal notice, the counsel mentioned that his client was denied promotion to the rank of Naib Subedar, though he was due w.e.f December 1, 2004 and was superseded by his juniors. Dismayed over the injustice, Ramesh Chand Sharma filed a writ petition at the Kohima Bench, Gauhati High Court, in 2006, seeking justice by directing the authorities to promote him. The Court dismissed the writ petition with the observation that the same has no merit and the in view of the judgement Ramesh Chand was promoted to the rank of Naib Subedar with retrospective effect from December 1, 2004.

However, the authorities wrongly fixed the pay and allowances of Ramesh Chand, by giving one increment in total violation of rules. Ramesh Chand is reportedly entitled to get a total amount of Rs 6,53,575, after calculating the pay and allowances with effect from December 1, 2004 till date.

In the meantime, the counsel also mentioned that the authorities also denied his promotion to the post of subedar though he is entitled to the same w.e.f. February 1, 2011 and stated that he has been wrongly promoted observing that he has been actually serving as a Naib Subedar w.e.f. March, 12, 2012.

In view of the mental agony and physical torture to Ramesh Chand Sharma in addition to all the entitlements including promotion to the post of Subedar and arrears pay and allowances, it called upon the respondents (authorities) to pay a compensation of rupees Rs 20,00,000.

IMPHAL, Sept 23: The All Manipur Students’ Union today in a press release demanded the replacement of the Manipur Institute of Technology Principal.

The press release further said that the police action against the MIT students was condemnable in which 15 students were hospitalized at RIMS and further added that the agitating students of the institute were dispersed by the OC of Lamphel police station after imposing 144 CrPC by the concerned District Magistrate, it said.

The press release said that AMSU condemned such kind of inhuman and undemocratic police action to the innocent students. 

IMPHAL, Sept 23: The United Forum of Bank Unions, Manipur State Committee today in a press release said that the All India Bank Employees' Association (AIBEA) and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) has called for an All India Bank Strike on September 25, 2013 protesting against the move of the government towards implementation of financial reforms.

The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) decided to extend fraternal support to the strike of AIBEA & BEFI in their struggle against the anti-national reform measures being implemented by the Government, it said.

Hence, all the branches of Public Sector Banks, Commercial Banks, Co-Operative Banks and Rural Banks operating in the State will remain close on September 25, 2013. 

IMPHAL, Sept 23: The Kasom Khullen Sub-Division Development Association (KKSDDA) today in a press release strongly condemned the brutal killing of Jonathan Kashung, a presidential candidate of TNL 2013 after his abduction on September 13 by NSCN-IM.

Such brutal inhuman acts should be condemned by all sections of our society, it said and further demanded the perpetrators to be booked at the earliest and given befitting punishment according to the law.

The release further made an appeal to the Chief Election Commissioner Tangkhul Naga Long to re-notify the TNL election 2013.

In a separate press release, the KKSDDA said that the road of K Somrei to Bungdung is in a deplorable condition. The buses plying on the said road were stopped since June 2013 due to the deplorable road condition.

Victor Keishing assisted financially contributing for repair and filling up of pot holes between the said road, said the release and added that the villagers voluntary helped vehicles and labour to repair the deplorable road.

The KKSDDA extended heartfelt gratitude to the local MLA and village volunteers for their co-operation. 

IMPHAL, Sept 23: The All Manipur Sunday Market Vendors& Labourers’ Union today in a press release said that they will not comply with the order of the Imphal Municipal Council to collect Rs 3000 from the Sunday market shops of BT Road and Rupmahal Tank.

The press release further condemned the act of IMC which was against the unemployed youths who finds a means to earn a livelihood from the Sunday market.

The press release allegedly charged that such move of collecting Rs 3000 was made in conspiration with another association, it said.

It is also mentioned in the release that IMC collects Rs 50 each from the Sunday Market shops. 

IMPHAL, September 23: Locals of Kanglatongbi and Kalapahar today staged a sit-in-protest along the National Highway Number 2 (Imphal-Dimapur Road) demanding the reconstitution of Gram Panchayat in the area which was deleted by the state Government since 2012.

The protest was organised by the Manipur Gurkha Welfare Union and Reformist Students’ Front in collaboration with Bhartiya Gurkha Parishang Manipur, Nepali Shahitya Parishad and All Manipur Gurkha Students’ Union.

Speaking to the media on the side line of the protest, Khadaga Tamang-general secretary, Manipur Gurkha Welfare Union said that the Kanglatongbi Gram Panchayat existed in the state since 1934- before the country got independence, and were extended under UP Gram Panchayat Act in 1964 in four Gram Panchayats namely Kangaltongbi GP, Kalapahar GP, KeithelManbi GP and Toribari GP, all of which were unfortunately taken out from the list of Manipur Panchayati Raj Act since 1975.

A case was filed against the decision at the High Court which subsequently gave a ruling for reconstitution of the Panchayat in the area since 1978 leading to the formation of Koubru Leikha GP, Santolabari GP and Toribari GP, he said.

He further said that the last Gram Panchayat Election of all the four GPs which were deleted by the government was held in the year 2007 before being removed again from last year’s Panchayat Election.

A memorandum has also been submitted to the Chief Minister and the Governor demanding reconstitution of the Gram Panchayat in the areas but there has been no positive response from the government so far, he expressed.

Lamenting the fact that the people in these areas have not been able to avail the various government schemes implemented in the state due to the removal of Gram Panchayat status, Tamang further clarified that the above mentioned areas is not included in the Autonomous District Council nor are they part of the Gram Panchayat.

He expressed the resolution of the people of the area to resort to various democratic forms of protests until their demands are fulfilled. 

IMPHAL, Sept 23: The District and Session Court, Manipur West today remanded a personnel of the 5th Manipur Rifles accused in a molestation case of seven year old girl to 15 day’s judicial custody after the case was put up to the court by the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Tamenglong.

According to the police, the accused identified as L Iboyaima (38), Son of (L) Mangi Khuman of Khurai Ningthoubung Leikai, a personnal of the 5th Manipur Rifles posted at Tamenglong under Riflemen Number 05006253 was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Tamenglong today.

The Session Court remanded the accused to 15 days Judicial custody after the case was put up to the District and session Court today.

IMPHAL, September 23: Concerned with the aggravating students’ agitation at the Manipur Institute of Technology demanding removal of the Principal in charge, Dr Th Kulachandra Singh, a governing body meeting of the institute will be discussing the issue tomorrow.

Vice Chancellor, Manipur University, Prof H Nandakumar Sharma addressing the media at his office chamber today said the governing body of the institute has already received instructions from the Secretary to the Governor, Dr RK Nimai Singh to examine the allegations levelled by the students against the Principal and to take necessary actions.

He said tomorrow’s meeting will also discuss necessary actions to be taken up against Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science, MIT Th Ibungomacha Singh who allegedly created nuisance at the Manipur Bhawan, Kolkata while in charge of a study tour programme of the institute’s students in the first week of August.

He said, the Assistant Professor disturbed other visitors and residents of the bhawan with unwanted acts.

Coming to the issue of the students’ demand for removal of the Principal, the VC said that ever since the institute became a constituent college of the Manipur University on October 13, 2005, the university has never received any revenue from the institute, even though it should be mandatory.

He continued his office had served notification to the institute on the issue however there has been no positive response from the institute till date.

Further elaborating on the present situation of the institute, the MU VC said that following the complaints of the students, he had himself visited the institute during which he found that even though there were five grade IV employees, the institute compound was strewn with garbage.

He continued that in defiance of the guideline of the UGC, which says that the teaching and non-teaching staff strength ratio should be 1:1; the staff strength at the institute was found to be 1:3.

The laboratory was not fully equipped though the MU authorities had always supplied the institute with proper and up-to-date equipment, Prof H Nandakumar contended.

Several Zerox machines which were supplied to the institute were also found missing, he further expressed.

He had provided assurance to the students to provide around 20 computers and provision of drinking water, he said.

By next year, most probably, the institute will be shifted to the MU campus, he assured. He said the students have been staying at a community hall at Sagolband Tera Yengkhom Leirak since yesterday.

Since there are several students who are from far off places and outside the state, the MU authority has already taken steps to accommodate the students at the MU campus, he said.

Meanwhile, parents and guardians of the students have formed a MIT Students’ Guardian Association. 

IMPHAL, September 23: Political parties in the State including national and regional parties except for the ruling Congress held a Joint Political Parties meeting against the ongoing Indo-Myanmar Border Fencing at Keishampat Leirembi Community Hall.

Several members and active workers of the parties attended the meeting.

Speaking to media persons, Dr M Nara- state secretary CPI said that the ongoing border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border with an estimated 100 Km of border area from Ukhrul to Churachanpur stands to concede a vast portion of state land to Myanmar if the ongoing process is not stopped in time.

Various civil societies, NGOs and political parties of the state who have visited the site of the fencing work have earlier expressed similar concerns.

He also condemned the statement given by Dr J Suresh Babu, Principal Secretary (Home) that the fencing is just a security fencing taken up by the government to check infiltration in the area.

The joint political meeting will demand the state government to halt the ongoing border fencing work immediately until a proper demarcation of the border land has been finalised, he said and further appealed to both governments of India and Myanmar to conduct proper survey and demarcate the border area before proceeding with the border fencing works.

He added the state government should invite all the political parties for a joint meeting to discuss the border fencing and should take a collective resolution which should be submitted to the central government through our State Government.

State leaders of the political parties present today include Y Mani- president, MSCP; M Nara, state secretary CPI; M Tombi- president JD (U) Manipur; S Sarat, state secretary CPI (M); N Sovakiran, president MPP; M Apanthon chairman All India Forward Block; N Kabita BSP; S Shamungou- organiser Shiv Sena; Athon Abonmei-president NPF Manipur; K Tomba, vice president Trinamool Congress; Kh Gyaneshor, state secretary AIFB and Aziz Khan-president Pangal Political Party.