Invitation to Zou Gal Day Observation at Delhi and Lamka Khopi

The Zou Tribe Anti-colonial Resistance known as Zou Gal (1917-19) in local parlance memorial day was observed every year by the Zou tribe in India. This year Zou Gal Day observation will be held in Manipur at Zou Gal Hall, Zoveng, Lamka, Churachandpur and Delhi at MP’s Club Hall, South Avenue, New Delhi respectively on March 17, 2011. The observation at Lamka will start at 11AM till 11PM at night and Delhites’ will be from 1PM to 6PM. The organising secretaries extend a warm greetings to all Zou tribes and invite them to attend the program without fail.

CHURACHANDPUR PROGRAM

Venue : Zou Gal Hall, Zoveng, Lamka

Date : 17th March, 2011 [Thursday]

11:00AM – 11:00PM

• Chief Guest: Pu LB Sona, Chairman, Zomi Council
• Guest of Honour: President MPC, President Hmar Inpui, President Meitei Society CCPur
• Functional President: Pu Tongzathang, Prez Kuki Inpi, CCpur
• Host: Pu Ginsuanhau, Prez UZO

1. Hunpat Thumna: Rt. Rev. Dr. T. Ginkhanmung Zou, Bishop MELC

2. Welcome Address: Pu T. Manglianthang, Vice President UZO

3. Cultural Extravaganza: ZYO Sugnu Block

4. Zou Gal Tangthu: Pu Chinlunthang, Gen. Secy. UZO GHQ

5. Zogal HanLa Sahna: Pu Vumchinkhup, Chairman HEC/UZO GHQ

6. Thugenna: Guest of Honour, Functional President, Host, Chief Guest

7. Nuomthu genna: Pu S. Lianzakap, Adviser, UZO

8. Closing Prayer: Rev. Tualzachin, Exe. Secy. ZPCS

JAN HUN VAIGUON

• Chief Guest: Pu Langkhanpau Guite, Chairman ADC CCpur
• Guests of Honour: Pu Demmang Haokip Vice Chairman ADC CCPur, Pu G. Suanchinpauo, Member ADC CCpur, Pu Tongkai Baite, Member ADC CCpur
• Functional President: Pu P. Siandong, Chairman Finance Committee, ADC CCPur
• Host: Pi Grace Zamnu, Member ADC CCpur
• Official Invitees: Pi Jacintha Lazarus, DC CCpur, Pu Brig. Surender Neta, Commander 27 Sect ARs, Pu GB Sharma IPS, SP CCpur
• Special Invitee: Presidents & Gen. Secretaries of ZYA, KKL, HYA and YMA.

1. Hunpatna: Upa Nengkhenthang

2. Vaidawn thugenna: Pu Suankhanmang, Adviser UZO

3. Cultural items:

4. Speech: Invited officials – Guests of Honour, Functional President, Host, Chief Guest

5. Choreography: Hip Hop band

6. Thanks: P. Chinzakhup Adviser

7. Close: Upa Kamlianthang, Member HEC

Invited Artists: Pu Haumang, Pi Lhingbawi, Pu Lawrence, Nh. Hatboi, Pu KS Thang, Pu TT Lal, Pu Khaiminlun,

Guest Artiest: Pu Jangkholam Haokip, Miss Jony

DELHI PROGRAM DETAIL

Venue : MP’s Club, South Avenue, New Delhi

Date : 17th March, 2011 [Thursday]

14:00 Hrs -to-18:00 Hrs

• Host : General Secretary, ZSPDB
• Zougal Highlight : Co-Ordinator ZSP Study Forum
• Moments of Silence & Prayer : Pu Khamchinpau Zou
• Welcome Speech : Vice President ZSPDB
• Special No. : kathang e e e..ka Zougal sat by Artiste
• ZOU GAAL thu sutna : Pu Dr.. David Vumlallian Zou, Asst. Professor. Dept. of History, Delhi University,
• Special No. : Thanghou-liandou by Artiste
• Short Speech : UZO Delhi
• Special No : Artiste
• Words of thanks : Pu Zamlianmang
• Closing Prayer : Pastor T. Liankholal

 Legacy of Anti-colonial Resistance: Zou Gal (1917-19)

The Zo tribe joined the so-called ‘Kuki Rising’ in Manipur against the British from 1917 to 1919. Hiangtam and Gotengkot Forts were two main centres of resistance among the Zomis. Pu Do Ngul Taithul was the chief of Gotengkot, which was a fairly big and fortified Zo village. Captain Steadman was the man responsible for suppressing Gotengkot with considerable casualties on both sides. The Zo tribe was a non-Thado tribe to have participated in this abortive, yet bold attempt to oust the white imperialist from Manipur, even as a local folk song composed on the occasion of the revolt runs in the Zou dialect as follows:

Tuizum Mangkang kiil bang hing khang/ Zota kual zil bang liing e/ Pianna ka gamlei hi e! phal si’ng e!/ Ka naamtem hiam a, i Zogamlei laal kanaw/ Sansii’n zeel e!/ Ngalliam vontawi ka laulou lai e.

Free translation:

The seafaring White Imperialist coils like the ‘kill’ plant, Tremors of earthquake do quiver the Zo world,’ Tis the land of my birth: I shall not part with it!Stain’d with blood is my Sword That has routed the adversaries of Zoland, I shall yet fight with the wild Boar, injured [4].

This folk song of the Zou dialect, reflecting the collective mind of the natives, indicated that the anti-imperial fervour was very high in 1918; and interestingly the Britishers were compared by the native mind with the wild Boar, or with a native wild creeper-plant called ‘kill’. Independent India justifiably took pride in its legacy of colonial resistance. In Manipur, the Palace uprising and Rani Gaidinlieu’s movement are relatively well-known. However, the “Kuki Rising” and the participation of the Zou tribe was less well-known. There stands a dilapidated, tin-roofed hall called “Zogal Memorial Hall” at Zoveng, Churachandpur (Manipur) built in honour of the Zomis who fought against British colonizers. The anti-colonial legacy of the Zou is a tribute to the multi-etnnic people of Manipur itself. However, the dilapidated condition of Zogal Memorial Hall reflects the lack of official patronage for its shared history and collective memory.

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ZOGAL Links

ZOUGAL (1917-1919): Dr David Vumlallian Zou

The Unforgettable Warriors: Zou Resistance Against the British

Zou Gal Day 2011: A Historic First Observed in Delhi and Manipur

THE LAST TEARS OF ZOUGAAL ~ Hausienmuan Munluo

Zous celebrate Zogal Day in Manipur

ZOU GAL DAY: LAMKA & DELHI

Delhi leh Lamka khopi ah Zou Gal Day thupitah in kizang

Zogal Memorial Shield 2015: Football Final

ZOGAL DAY OBSERVANCE-cum-KIHANTOHNA 2025

Invitation to Zou Gal Day Observation at Delhi and Lamka Khopi

Zou Raid Threats 1918 Letters: Chief Luanvunga’s Plea | British Records

Zogal kaap te'n Mizo khuo Chingbung leh Loannbung luh sawmna thu | British Records

The Zou as a Minority Community

Zou Gaal song composer Pu Mangzathang passes away

Zou Gal (1917-19) leh Chivu: Dr S Thangboi Zou

ZOUGAL TANCHIN TOMKIM: DR S THANGBOI ZOU

ZOGAL TIMELINE

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ZSP Delhi Raises VOICES for ST RESERVATION

UNDER the leadership of Khaibiaklin, members of the Zou Sangnaupang Pawlpi (ZSP) Delhi turned out in large numbers to support the demand for a 7.5% Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation under the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD).

The All India Scheduled Tribes Student Action Forum (AISTSAF), a recently formed umbrella organization representing various tribal student groups across the country, organized a nationwide demonstration on March 8, 2011. The protest began at Jantar Mantar and proceeded toward Parliament, where a memorandum was submitted.

Thousands of tribal students marched towards Parliament, crossing three-tier barricades guarded by a strong police presence. Undeterred by security forces, the students boldly moved forward, led by Rajasthan MP (Independent) Dr. Kirori Lal Meena. Dr. Meena was at the forefront, pushing through the barricades. The demonstrators chanted slogans such as “Sheila Dikshit, Murda Bad” and “Adivasi/Tribals Zindabad”. Placards carried messages like “Restore ST reservation under Article 342(1) of the Constitution” and “Don't harass the ST communities”.

All roads leading to Parliament were heavily guarded, with strict security measures enforced. The march culminated near the Parliament Street police station, where the students peacefully assembled in the evening.

Leaders of the Action Forum submitted the memorandum to the Prime Minister, UPA Chairperson, Home Minister, Law Minister, and Minister of Tribal Affairs, demanding the restoration of ST reservation in GNCTD. This reservation had been in place since 1955 but was discontinued following a Supreme Court judgment in 1999.

During the protest, the ZSP president delivered a fiery speech from the dais, receiving enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. A notable moment of the day was when Mawi, President of the Hmar Students' Association (HSAD), delivered an eloquent speech in both Hindi and English.

Tribal students from the Northeast and other parts of India actively participated in the demonstration, joined by leaders from various ST communities who voiced their concerns against the Delhi Government's alleged discrimination. Political leaders, Members of Parliament, civil society organizations, NGOs, and human rights activists also attended in large numbers.

The rally officially began at around 2 PM, following a lunch provided for the demonstrators. ZSP President Lian, who also served as the mess manager, was assisted by ZSP members in food distribution. Meanwhile, another ZSP member, Douminlian, President of KSOD, played a key role as one of the coordinators of the Action Forum. Despite their contributions, both Lian and Douminlian did not get a chance to eat.

At 4 PM, the leaders who had submitted the memorandum returned to the police station, where the student mass had been waiting for over an hour. They provided an update on the submission, and MP Dr. Kirori Lal Meena urged the students to persist in their fight for ST rights in the long run.

While waiting for their leaders, Northeast tribal students and others engaged in traditional dances and folk songs, boosting the morale of the demonstrators.

By 4:40 PM, the crowd began dispersing. The 'Eimi' groups gathered by the roadside, where Action Forum Chairman Thomas Thailu delivered a vote of thanks. KSOD Vice President Ngamlen led a prayer of thanksgiving.

As the sun set and exhaustion took over, key ZSP and tribal leaders, including the ZSP President, Garo Students' leader Benny A. Sangma, Thomas Thailu, Douminlian, and Lalbruce, decided to leave. Before departing, they received a phone call from Pu Philip, who invited them to his office, just a few meters away from the protest site. There, the leaders met Pu Philip, where they were served tea and samosas while discussing the success of the day's demonstration.

Additionally, Pu Kuldeep Pakad, Secretary-cum-Additional Election Commissioner (NCT Delhi & UT Chandigarh), also reached out to express his delight over the protest's turnout. Later, he arranged a meeting at MP Kirori Lal Meena’s residence, where the leaders were treated to another round of tea. MP Meena, pleased with the rally's impact, decided to host a dinner on March 10 at Gram Masala restaurant in Chanakyapuri. Invitations were sent to all tribal student leaders in the capital.

On March 10, ZSP President and Editor Zoukuomthawn (ZSP News Bulletin) attended the dinner party. The event saw participation from student leaders across the country, marking the first time such a large gathering of tribal student representatives took place. Leaders exchanged greetings, contacts, and reaffirmed their commitment to the cause, making it a memorable occasion.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

New Delhi, March 8, 2011

 

Thousands of ST Students March Against Delhi Government Over Reservation Issue

New Delhi, 8 March 2011: Thousands of students, public leaders, politicians, and human rights activists belonging to Scheduled Tribes protested today against the Government of NCT of Delhi. The rally was organised to protest the cancellation of the 7.5% reservation for Scheduled Tribes under the Government of NCT of Delhi and to demand its immediate restoration. The assembled ST communities marched towards Parliament, breaking through police barricades, and submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson, Smt Sonia Gandhi, Home Minister, Shri P. Chidambaram, Law Minister, Shri Veerappa Moily, and Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Kanti Lal Bhuria.

Shri Kirori Lal Meena, MP (BJP) Rajasthan, stated, “We will fight for our people. The government must address the distress of the ST communities in India. The reservation should be reinstated at the earliest.”

Many MPs, student organisations, and human rights activists shared the dais, expressing their dissatisfaction with the Government of Delhi and demanding the immediate restoration of ST reservation under Article 342(1) in relation to the Government of NCT of Delhi.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

 

Scheduled Tribes to Protest in Delhi on March 8 Demanding Reservation Restoration

New Delhi, March 5, 2011: Several students of Scheduled Tribes from all over India held a meeting here in JNU Students’ Office on March 4 to organise a protest rally on March 8 against the Government of NCT of Delhi in seeking restoration of reservation in posts and services in respect of Scheduled Tribes under the Government of NCT of Delhi.

Students from Scheduled Tribes will assemble at the Jantar Mantar on March 8 and proceed to Parliament to submit a memorandum to the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Home Minister P Chidambaram for immediate restoration of the 7.5% for Scheduled Tribes under Government of NCT of Delhi.

The members of tribal communities notified in the States and UTs under Article 342(1) of the Constitution of India were enjoying the reservation benefits of the vacancies in posts and services under the Government of NCT of Delhi since 1955, however this facilities was stopped by the Government of Delhi based on the judgment pronounced by the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court pronounced its judgment in Civil Appeal No. 5092 of 2009 (Subhash Chandra & Others Vs. Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board & Others) declaring that the dicta in Pushpa (Case Appeal Civil No. 6-7 of 1998 S. Pushpa & Others Vs. Siva Chanmugavelu & Others) is an obiter and not lay down any binding ratio.

The fate of entire tribal communities across India have been hanging in balance by the Hon’ble Court using two words 1) DICTA OBITER (an incidental observation made by a judge which is not material to the judgment and therefore not binding) i.e. statement which are not part of the ration decideni. (2) PER IN CURIUM (a decision which a subsequent court finds to be a mistake and therefore not a binding precedent).

The ST communities in Delhi alleged that the bureaucracy in the Local Government (Govt. of NCT of Delhi) unnecessarily filling up the posts mean for STs, dereserving the seats, non-publishing of posts and non declaration of results and helding up the promotions of the officials of ST categories in a hurriedly manner. This may be termed a systematic attempt to eliminate STs from National Capital Territory citing courts judgments.

To press for the restoration of this reservation facilities, thousands of tribals from different states and UT’s under the aegis of All India Scheduled Tribes Student Action Forum will demonstrate on March 8 at Jantar Mantar at 11 AM.  In this regard, several tribal students and leaders came together for the first time at the meeting held in the capital on March 2. The Forum will provide transportation (buses) for north Delhi and South Delhi. 

The Forum appeals to all the Scheduled Tribes across the country to participate in this rally. For further information, contact: 9899313764, 9891856893, 9999593603.

~ BKT

DEMONSTRATION AT PARLIAMENT ON 8TH MARCH 2011

ALL INDIA SCHEDULED TRIBES STUDENT ACTION FORUM
 
B-29, Christian Colony, Patel Chest, Delhi University, Delhi
 
9899313764, 9891856893, 9999593603
 
Press Release: New Delhi, March 4, 2011
 
DEMONSTRATION AT PARLIAMENT ON 8TH MARCH 2011

All the tribal youths, leaders, student-groups, sub-groups etc. are informed that a huge demonstration will be organised in peaceful manner on 08-03-2011 at 11:00 AM at the Jantar Mantar proceed to Parliament for pressing the Government of India to restore 7.5% reservation of Scheduled Tribes in post and services under the Government of NCT of Delhi. A memorandum will be submitted to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Sh. Manmohan Singh, Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson UPA and Sh. P. Chidambaram, Home Minister about the unnecessary harassment of tribals by way of stopping reservation under the Local Government of NCT of Delhi and to demand immediate restoration of 7.5% reservation of ST’s which is continued from 1955, as decided by the MHA vide OM No. 7/2/55-SCT dated 14-10-1955. A deeprooted conspiracy was hatched against tribals taking shelter of judgment pronounced by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Civil Appeal No. 5092 of 2009 Subhash Chandra & Others Vs. Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board & Others, which has been subsequently over ruled by the bench of Supreme Court in Civil Appeal No. 4494 of 2006 dated 07-10-2010 State of Uttaranchal Vs. Sandeep Kumar Singh & Others. Therefore, the 7.5% reservation of ST’s continued from 1955 under the Govt. of NCT of Delhi should not be complicated with the larger issue of migration from one state to other state. Let the tribals join into the main stream of the nation coming to the national capital of India from different state and union territories. If there is no Scheduled List of ST’s for Govt. of NCT of Delhi, issue constitutional order under Article 342(1) of the Constitution treating all the scheduled tribals across the India deemed to be a list of ST’s for Govt. of NCT of Delhi.

 

All are requested to kindly join the demonstration on 08th March 2011 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. All are requested to forget regional difference and geographical isolation and make a plan and strategy for making success of this demonstration.

 

With regards

 

All Tribal Brothers & Sisters

 

Two Manipuris Attack a Fellow Manipuri in Delhi

New Delhi, 3 March 2011: Two Manipuris allegedly attempted to murder a fellow Manipuri in Munirka yesterday night. According to the police, the accused, identified as Asem Tangkhul, alias Johns, and Sana (Meitei Pangal), allegedly entered the room of the victim, who belongs the Zou tribe of Manipur, at around 8:30 pm. Shortly after, the accused began attacking the victim with a brick, which they had concealed in plastic. Asem struck the victim on the head with the brick while Sana punched and kicked him inside the room where he lived. The victim sustained multiple head injuries.

According to the victim, “They came to my room while I was having dinner. We had a friendly chat. Suddenly, they stood up and hit me with a brick. They said, ‘Let’s kill’. I was terrified. Then they started hitting and punching me. I defended myself, even though I felt dizzy. I was afraid of falling, so I fought back. We struggled for about 2–5 minutes. They shouted, ‘Let’s kill’, and ran away quickly. At last, I managed to run out of the room and shout for help. Then they fled.”

Upon hearing the commotion, T. Ginlun, Suanlal Mantuong, and Papau Samte rushed to the victim’s aid and took him, blood-soaked, to Dayal Hospital, where he received medical treatment.

The victim, a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, New Delhi, had been living alone in Munirka for many years, while his wife and children remained in Manipur. The victim and the accused were known to each other. “I never expected such a thing to happen. Previously, when we met on the way, we would talk to each other. Now I feel unsafe; they might attack me again,” the victim said.

Asem Tangkhul and Sana allegedly conspired to eliminate the victim and rob him of his money after pay day.

Leaders from the United Zou Organisation Delhi, Zou Youth Organisation Delhi, and Zou Sangnaupang Pawlpi Delhi (students) took the matter seriously and urged Vasant Vihar Police Station to arrest the absconding culprit. The police arrested Sana the same night, while Asem Tangkhul remains at large.

Ved Prakash, SHO of Vasant Vihar Police Station, stated, “A case has been registered. A police team has been dispatched to locate and apprehend the absconding accused at the earliest possible opportunity.”

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

 

Manipur to have Pre-paid Power supply

Feb 28 : Manipur is set to introduce ‘pre-paid’ power supply mechanism to control power theft in April next in the State.

Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh informed the new measure to check power theft to news reporters after inspecting Thoubal multi-purpose project in the adjoining areas of Ukhrul, Senapati, Thoubal and Imphal East districts, 45 km north east of Manipur today.He also informed that decades-old Thoubal project will be completed before December this year, three months ahead of its completion target as 75-80 per cent of the construction works are completed.

KSOD EXECUTIVE MEMBERS 2010-2011

President: Lamtinthang Haokip

Vice President: Ngamlen

General Secretary: T Douminlian

Joint Secretary (North): Thangminlal Mate

Joint Secretary (South): P Joseph Suantak

Principal Information Secretary: Thangri Joy Baite

Asst Information Secretary: Zalienmoi Gangte

Secretary, Games & Sports: Kamzathang

Asst Secretary, Games & Sports: Solomon P Haokip

Education Secretary: Joshi Lamkhohat Haokip

Asst Secretary, Education: Diki Touthang

Secretary, Social & Culture: Jangkholen Haokip

Asst Secretary, Social & Culture: Hoizinnia Doungel

Finance Secretary: Lamboichong Khongsai

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Manipur Outfit ‘Bans' Mobile Service Providers

Sets Wednesday deadline for dismantling all towers

Imphal, Feb 20 : The outlawed underground organization, the Kangleipak Communist Party (Military Council) has banned all mobile service providers in Manipur. 

A press release jointly signed by the KCP(MC) ‘commander-in-chief' Taibang Nganba and publicity secretary Washington Meitei said all towers should be dismantled by February 23.

Rev.Jangkholun Mangte namdetna ZCF Delhi ah om

Feb 13, 2011: Tuni biak kikhopna hun ah Zomi Christian Fellowship, Delhi in kum 5 sung full time Pastor ding in Rev. Jangkholun Mangte laklutna leh namdetna nei ding uhi. Amah ahihle hih ZCF, Delhi pastor ding a laipia mi 7 lak a deihpen leh achingpen a Executive Committee in atelkhiak ahi hi.

AIDS threaten 200 kids in Manipur

More than 2,000 children are infected by HIV in Manipur and the number is expected to grow.

The shocking figures were revealed today by the project director of Manipur AIDS Control Society, Pradeep Kumar Jha, during the inaugural programme of a two-day workshop funded by Unicef.

KSOD Press Release: Hangminlen Haokip Passes Away in Delhi

KUKI STUDENTS’ ORGANISATION DELHI
 
Press Release
New Delhi, the 13^th February, 2011

 KSOD/PR/01/2011

A 30-year-old Hangminlen Haokip, a resident of Churchandpur in Manipur passed away on the night of 11^th February 2011 at around 11.45pm at LNJP hospital in New Delhi. The funeral service was held on February 12 at the South West Delhi Christian Cemetery in Dwarka, Delhi. Kuki Worship Service Delhi pastor Rev Letlal Haokip conducted the funeral prayer. The funeral service was attended by the Kuki Worship Service Delhi, Kuki Students’ Organisation Delhi and Delhi Lompi. Many Kukis in the capital gathered at the cemetery.

Ironically, the father of the deceased is unknown. The name of his village is untraceable. No one claimed the deceased body. Finally KSOD claimed the body.

The deceased Hangminlen Haokip and his three friends were said to be drug addicts living in Munirka. After facing money problem, they took sheltered under the flyover in Munirka. These four Kuki youths have been seen living under the flyover in November last year. The shocking incident came into limelight when somebody reported to KSO leaders residing in Munirka. Thereafter Mr Lalboi Baite, ex-vice president, KSOD made spot enquiry and found out that the condition of these youths were much beyond imagination. The matter was immediately informed to KSO advisor Pu Khupthang. The four youths were brought to advisor’s residence, where they were given medical treatment and other necessary helps.

Kuki Students’ Organisation, Kuki Worship Service, Gangte Welfare Association and Vaiphei Welfare Association had a discussion in last November.  As per their discussion, KWS leaders admitted the four youths in The Last Resort rehabilitation centre in Delhi.

After one month, two of the four youths got recovery while the health condition of the other two deteriorated each passing day. The first two youths returned back to Churachandpur while Hangminlen Haokip and Sasang Vaiphei were admitted in LNJP hospital. Hangminlen Haokip was declared dead by the doctors on February 11 night while Sasang Vaiphei is said to be in critical condition.

The incident gave us a striking lesson to learn. The youths belong to different tribes. However they chose to die under the same roof. So they began sheltering unitedly with their last hope, as one of the victims told the earlier rescuers. During day, the other two ventured out in the city to find food for their half-dead friends, who were lying unconsciously for several days. Though they were homeless, they vowed to die under one’s care rather than dying lonely. The love and unity towards their fellow being is highly appreciated. This set an exemplary life for all of us. 

On behalf of the Kuki Students’ Organisation Delhi, we hereby, expressed our heartfelt gratitude to all the organisations and individuals who had painstakingly stood beside us throughout the steps.

We are deeply impressed by the cooperation extended by the broadminded leaders/members of Gangte Welfare Association, Vaiphei Welfare Association, The Last Resort, Kuki Worship Service and Kuki Students’ Organisation. We also sought everyone to stand united in the days to come.

PS. Hangminlen Haokip is misspelled as Hangminthang Haokip in the wooden cross.

 

          Sd/-                                                                                            Sd/-
  (LAMTINTHANG HAOKIP)                                                         (T. DOUMINLIAN)
              President                                                                               General Secretary
 Kuki Students’ Organisation                                                  Kuki Students’ Organisation
                Delhi                                                                                              Delhi

 

---

Manipur 1st State to Start Biometric For NPR

Feb 12 : Manipur became the first state in the country to start collection of Biometrics for preparation of National Population Register (NPR) along with Population Enumeration of Census 2011. The second Phase of Census of India 2011--Population Enumeration started today and will continue till February 28 with a Revision Round from March 1- 5, 2011. 

Manipuri Girls Caught With Yemenis in Bangalore

Feb 8 : Abdul Mallik, 29, and his friend Mohammed Ali, 23, both from Yemen, thought they were on to a good thing when they picked up two beauticians Sctey, Remey Thang, both from Manipur, in Kammanahalli in Bangalore and kicked off their liquor-sodden drive to Mysore. 

Manipur issues find place in kisan sabha charter

IMPHAL: Two major issues that Manipur is facing insurgency and the plight of people affected by the Loktak hydroelectric project have been incorporated in the All India Kisan Sabha's charter of demands which will be raised by the CPI MPs in the ensuing parliament session.

Altogether 25 demands were adopted during the 28th national conference of the sabha, CPI's frontal organization, held in December last year at Aurangabad in Maharastra.

Leaders of the Manipur Loumi Lup (MLL), an affiliating constituent unit of the sabha, who attended the conference, said the demands were adopted in view of various problems faced by the poor farmers of the country. 

Manipur boy wins UN Peace poster

Guwahati, Jan 26 : Come March 18, a youngster from the northeast will be awarded at the United Nations headquarters in New York for his efforts in spreading the message of peace with his paintbrush and colours.

Eleven-year-old Raj Phairembam from Moirang in Manipur has won the International Peace Poster contest in which children from 100-odd countries took part. He is the first Indian participant to win the global award.

Raj, who is a Class V student of St Xavier's School in Moirang, painted a dove removing a dark covering featuring guns, blasts etc from the earth.

Govt formulate Job plans for Youth of NE India

New Delhi, Jan 28 : The government is finalising a special scheme for the skill development and employment of youth with focus on troubled Jammu and Kashmir, North-East and Naxal-affected areas to counter terrorism and insurgency.

The youth affairs ministry's programme will start with the north-eastern states. Assembly elections in Assam -- which is politically crucial for the ruling Congress -- are due later this year.

Over 50,000 Constables to be Recruited From Northeast in 2011

Guwahati, Jan 28 : Over 50,000 constables will be recruited from North East for various para-military forces this year.

Informing this at a press conference here today, Staff Selection Commission (SSC) chairman NK Raghupathy said, ''The SSC will be recruiting 53,200 constables from the region for six para-military forces on behalf of the Ministry of Home Affairs.'' The vacancies include 880 in the Assam Rifles, 3320 in the Indo-Tibetan Police Force (ITBP) and the rest in four others forces-- CRPF, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), CISF and BSF.

Mr Raghupathy said the advertisements will be published on February four and the entire process will be concluded by July 31, 2011, for Assam Rifles and ITBP recruitment, and by October 31, 2011, for the other four forces.

''We are going for a time-bound recruitment and the SSC shall give their commitment to conclude it within the stipulated date in the advertisements itself,'' he added.

The Grand Homecoming: Swu and Muivah

Nagas in Delhi, on January 23, 2011, warmly welcomed their visionary leaders who have long yearned for the unification of the scattered Nagas in North-East India and Myanmar into a sovereign Nagalim.

~ BRUCE K. THANGKHAL

At 5 PM, 61, Lodhi Estate — a prominent location in the capital — was abuzz with hundreds of Nagas residing in Delhi, eager to witness the civic reception for National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) Chairman Isak Chishi Swu. The event was organized by the Naga Community, Delhi, and was attended by numerous Naga leaders, activists, scholars, students, and employees.

The crowd erupted in unison as Isak Chishi Swu arrived at the venue, accompanied by his wife and flanked by NSCN (IM) General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah, who was also accompanied by his wife and other leaders. Swu waved at the gathering from the stage, eliciting cheers and admiration.

The reception was presided over by James Pochury, a young and dynamic gentleman. The event began with the hymn “How Great Thou Art,” followed by an invocation prayer led by Rev. Dr. Ricky Medom, Pastor of the Naga Christian Fellowship, Delhi. The Sumi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu, Delhi, presented a touching welcome song in honor of Swu and Muivah. Kekhrie Yhome then delivered the welcome address.

The organizers, Naga Community Delhi, presented tokens of appreciation and love to Swu and Muivah for their tireless leadership. Since signing the historic ceasefire agreement with the government in August 1997, the NSCN-IM has engaged in more than 50 rounds of talks in India and abroad with the government’s interlocutors, though the negotiations have often ended in stalemate.

Speaking at the event, Isak Chishi Swu explained that the NSCN leadership had come to Delhi at the invitation of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to further political negotiations towards a final resolution. Swu acknowledged the positive attitude and efforts of the Government of India and reiterated the NSCN’s commitment to achieving a solution. He emphasized the importance of not missing this critical opportunity to resolve the issue.

The Poumai Tsiidoumai Me performed a beautiful folk song, followed by a speech from the much-anticipated General Secretary, Thuingaleng Muivah, who last visited India in December 2006 for talks with government leaders. Muivah highlighted that the Government of India has recognized the uniqueness of Naga history, which forms the basis of the ongoing dialogue. He assured the gathering that the Nagas will not be betrayed, stating, “We are not a lost people or a lost nation.”

Muivah elaborated that successive Prime Ministers, including the current one, had assured a solution that would be honorable and acceptable to both sides. He noted that the extent to which the Government of India would reflect its understanding and acceptance of Naga history remained a serious question yet to be resolved. He stressed the NSCN’s commitment to peace, stating, “We have not fired a single bullet,” and reaffirmed that their leadership had come unarmed for talks, demonstrating their intent for peaceful resolution. He cautioned that the Nagas’ patience should not be tested by forcing them into an impossible position and emphasized the need for reconciliation among the Nagas.

The event also included prayers led by Naga pastors residing in Delhi. Programme Coordinator Boveio Poukai Duo delivered a comprehensive vote of thanks, and the gathering concluded with the heartfelt hymn “We Shall Overcome,” followed by a benediction by Rev. Rocky Angumai, Pastor of UEF Delhi. A sumptuous dinner was served afterward.

The Nagas, spread across Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh in India, and Sagaing Division and Kachin State in Myanmar, number approximately four million. Under Sagaing Division, the Naga-occupied townships include Lahe, Tamu, Mowlick, Homelin, Laishi, Hkamti, and Namyung, while in Kachin State, they inhabit the Tanai Township, part of the Naga Hills District.

The Nagas first made their demands known in writing to the British Government’s Simon Commission on January 10, 1929, requesting that they be left to govern themselves as they were before British rule. On August 14, 1947, a day before India’s independence, the Nagas declared their own independence.

Under the visionary leadership of guerrilla leaders Isak Chishi Swu, S.S. Khaplang, and Thuingaleng Muivah, the National Socialist Council of Nagalim was formed on January 30, 1980. The NSCN later split into two factions: NSCN (K), led by Khaplang, and NSCN (IM), led by Isak and Muivah.

NSCN (IM) has since demanded the integration of Naga-dominated areas and a “special relationship with India,” seeking greater powers for a “Greater Nagaland.” Initially fighting for an independent homeland, the NSCN scaled down its demands to creating Greater Nagaland by incorporating parts of Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh with Naga populations.

The political situation in Nagaland has remained unstable since the Naga National Council (NNC), led by A.Z. Phizo, declared independence on August 14, 1947. The NNC signed the Shillong Accord in 1975, but the NSCN has continued its struggle for sovereignty, making it one of South Asia’s longest-running insurgencies.

Kukis knock on Prez, Pm doors for Justice

Imphal, Jan 17 : Kuki civil bodies of Manipur have asked the Centre to task to the NSCN(IM) rebels who massacred hundreds of people of the community in ethnic clashes during the early Nineties.

 

In a memorandum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday, the All Kuki Inpis and the Kuki Movement for Human Rights reiterated that the NSCN(IM) militants killed over 900 Kukis and destroyed about 360 villages displacing more than 1,00,000 Kukis.

The Kuki civil bodies said several memorandums have been sent to the successive Prime Ministers of the country seeking justice for the Kuki victims but the appeals have fallen on deaf ears. 

Unique Identification Number (UIN) launched in North East India

Agartala, Dec 2 (IANS) Aadhaar, a 12-digit identity number to be issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) for all Indian residents, was formally launched in the northeastern state of Tripura Thursday. 

Tripura is the first state in the northeast and the eighth in India where Aadhaar has been launched, according to officials here.

43.27pc in Mizoram had pre-marital: Survey

Aizawl: According to the latest survey done by a church body in Mizoram, 43.37 % had revealed that they had pre-marital sex. The survey was done to 31,202 persons across the state. Dr. Robert S Halliday, Coordinator of Synod Social Front in the Mizoram Synod said.

 

The main reason for the Synod Social Front (SSF) of the Mizoram Synod, the largest church organisation in Mizoram, to conduct such survey had been to eradicate the practice of pre-marital sex in Mizoram.

Dam: Way to Develop or destroy?

40,000 tribal people face displacement, starvation as government builds mega dam in Manipur, north east India.

 

Achungmei Kamei, a tribal woman and our correspondent in Manipur brings us this video about sufferings of tribal people caused by a mega dam project. Manipur is a hill state of India that has a fragile ecology, but a great reserve of biodiversity and has been home to about a hundred thousand Naga tribal people like Achungmei. For them land and forest are the main sources of livelihood. Today, nearly half of them are about to becomes refugees as a government mega dam project called Tipaimukh Hydro Electric Project is destroying their land, their forest and will submerge the homes when it is completed.

Curb on foreign tourists’ visit to 3 NE states lifted

In a New Year bonanza for Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram, the Centre has lifted a decades-old rules of obtaining permission by any foreigner visiting the three northeastern states.

"The government has decided to exclude Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland from the Protected Area regime notified under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958, initially for a period of one year," a Home Ministry statement said.

However, all foreigners visiting these states will have to register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the district they visit within 24 hours of their arrival.

Where Christ answers to over 50 names

Guwahati, Dec. 24: Apart from a home that is hundreds of years old, Jesus Christ has a name amid the mountains and rivers of the Northeast. He’s Isua in Mizo, Yisui in Ao, Jesun in Thadou, Isu in Hmar, Poupa Jesu in Paite, Isuan in Ranglong, Jisunii in Maram and Pakai Jesu in Kuki. 

The Bible has been translated into 57 languages in the region and the figure is expected to touch 100 by Christmas next year.

Zoumi folk art festival held:Thangkhal Cultural Dance Show

Imphal, December 12 2010: The Paite Tribe Council, Churachandpur in coordination with Department of Arts and Culture, government of Manipur and Kolkata based Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre yesterday organized a Folk Art Festival of Zoumi at YPA Hall, Upper Lamka, CCpur.

A modern cultural dance performed by ZMC under the theme 'Shifting Cultivation and Cloth Making' marked the opening ceremony of the festival.
In a speech, Deputy Commissioner, CCpur, Ms Jacintha Lazarus IAS said that in every civilization, the annals of culture are protected and it is nice to be associated with Paite Tribe Council.