Kuki bodies oppose UG notices, buses cease service

KANGGUI (Manipur), July 26, 2013 [TSE] ---- Consequent to serving meeting notifications on chiefs of Kuki villages located between Senapati and Kangpokpi by an unknown outfit without specifying details as well as 'annual tax' clearance to Kuki bus owners, passenger service from Senapati to Imphal ceased with immediate effect yesterday.

The Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills (KISH) and various other Kuki civil bodies today raised strong objection against activities of a militant outfit, under the banner of KTU NSCN/GPRN, within Sadar Hills and warned them to back off from the administrative areas of Kuki dominated Sadar Hills district.

KISH president Chungkam Haokip while speaking to media persons here yesterday afternoon said KTU GPRN/NSCN - one of the Naga militant outfits of People's Republic of Nagalim, served a meeting circulation (at Senapati bazar) on the letterhead of Govt of The People's Republic of Nagalim, Office of the KTU, Senapati Unit, KTU, NSCN/GPRN signed by one Thangboi, unit in-charge KTU, NSCN/GPRN to Kuki chiefs of Changoubung, Hengbung, Taphou Kuki and Kailenjang on July 17 and 25 without mentioning any agenda.

He elaborated that, as instructed by the KISH, chiefs of the four Kuki villages located between Kangpokpi and Senapati did not comply with the first meeting call of KTU, NSCN/GPRN.

The second meeting circulation served again to the four chiefs on July 25 mentioned the same place but without any agenda to be discussed, said Chungkam adding that the four Kuki chiefs were again advised not to attend the meeting since the Kuki Inpi is not in a position to accept any activities carried out by any element without the consent of the apex body.

Observing that intention and activities of the Naga militant outfit clearly underscore evil ideology of communal conflict being perpetuated by the NSCN-IM, the he made it clear that the Inpi as well as Kuki civil bodies will defy any vested individual or unwanted element attempting to disturb/throttle the peace loving communities and peaceful environment within Sadar Hills.

Asserting that it will not entertain any activities carried out by KTU NSCN/GPRN within Sadar Hills, the Inpi chief said: "Unfortunately, notification has been served particularly to the Kuki passenger buses plying between Senapati and Imphal demanding that annual tax be paid by July 25 which clearly testify communal mindset of the outfit".

Conveying that following the 'tax' notification Sadar Hills Women Union and other civil bodies today met owners and drivers of passenger carriers servicing between Senapati to Imphal at Gamgiphai and clearly explained to them communal intent of KTU NSCN/GPRN towards, Chungkam further confided that Kuki bus owners and drivers were advised not to entertain such demands until an amicable solution is brought.

Same has been done by the Kanggui Youth Union at Kangpokpi and subsequently all passengers buses plying between Senapati and Imphal along NH-2 have ceased service with immediate effect, said the KISH president while adding that service of Senapati to Imphal passenger buses along NH-2 will not resume until and unless there is clarity on the matter.

Chungkam further mentioned that, earlier the two umbrella organization of Kuki militant groups - UPF/KNO issued statements that no organization will be entertained to carry out any activities within the Kuki dominated areas without the knowledge of the two organization and the civil bodies.

KTU, NSCN/GPRN has also been seriously warned to back off by the Kuki civil bodies asking the outfit not to disturb the four villages.

In case KTU, NSCN/GPRN continue to disturb and harass any of the four Kuki chiefs whom the outfit had summoned for meetings, the Kuki bodies affirmed that they will take every possible steps for the safety of the peace loving communities and in promoting prevailing peaceful environment.

The Inpi also appealed to the United Naga Council and other Naga civil bodies as well as individuals to take the initiative in working out a peaceful solution before the matter goes out of hand.

With reference to the unwanted incident of the early 90s, Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, UPF/KNO and other Kuki civil bodies also urged the NSCN-IM to refrain from their communal mindset and to take mature steps to solve the matter peacefully.

From Manipur to Mumbai: Model Job

  A journey from Manipur to Mumbai in search of modelling job

 A YOUNG and beautiful girl, who came across many struggles, landed in a mega city from a distant corner of India’s northeast. Fashion companies, advertisement gurus, directors or producers have many a times robed her in various photoshoots for garments. The young model is all daylong busy in posing and cheerfully smiling before the lenses for clients like Spykar Jeans and Killer Jeans. Besides, she also goes for catalogues, glamour, lingerie, nighty, and semi-bikini shoots.

The young model hails from a small locality known as Lamka in Churachandpur district of Manipur. She is, TC Grace, the second eldest among the five siblings of three sisters and two brothers. Born and brought up by her dad, a former BSF soldier and her mom, a sincere clerk, she passed Class X from Royal Academy, Lamka in 2003 and XII from TG Hr Sec School, Imphal in 2005. Soon after XII exam she underwent three months training on hair and beauty in Imphal. After learning the beauty tips, she opened Grace Saloon in her hometown in July 2005. But in Feb 2006 she closed the saloon and moved to Mumbai in March 2006 in search of better job opportunity. Since then she stays here in Mumbai, looking fine and elegant. Come Dec 9, she’ll blow off 26 candles. Our correspondent, Bruce K. Thangkhal, caught up with TC Grace. 

Here is a tete-a-tete with this lovely hardworking model.

 

Tell us something about yourself?

TCG: I was born and brought up in Lamka and completed my higher secondary at Imphal. In order to explore my interest, I was trained as a hair-dresser and stylist.  I then opened my own saloon. To pursue a better career, I moved to Mumbai as a hair dresser with a curiosity to unlearn and relearn what I have gained over the years as a hair-dresser and stylist. Subsequently after gaining confidence and foreseeing the prospect to move on beyond hair dressing, I began to create my space in modeling industry.    

 

When and why do you choose modeling?

TCG: I was encouraged by one of my senior colleagues. So I chose modeling in 2011. Over the years, I’ve realized modeling is not just a product but an arousal of self-creativity to achieve the goal.

 

What was your first job in Mumbai?

TCG: My first job in Mumbai was as a hair dresser at L’Oreal Color Café (Hair & Beauty), Bandra West.

 

How do you manage yourself in this expensive city?

TCG: Expensive city J[Smilingly]!! I must say, a concept of being in an expensive city and managing self is relative. However it is subjected to one’s personality in how leisurely you’d spend the fruit of your hardwork, that’s how much you can earn as an individual. In a nutshell, I’d say, it’s the innate habit of saving a little.     

What are the main criteria for modeling? How should one prepare?

TCG: As we all know, there are several types of modeling and so are varied criteria which are subjected to the director, producer or advertisement agencies.  Currently, I’m for commercial modeling, where one must be between 5’4’’–5’11’’ in height with an average body measurement of 32–24–34.  The secret of modeling is not being perfect, however one needs a face that people can identify in a second and bring each time something new. One must focus on creativity and representation which is the vital component for this job.

 

Describe your experience while facing the camera?

TCG: To be brief, I’d say keep shooting, it helps you to gain confidence where flashing strobes are like applause.

 

Share us some observations you made in your profession?

TCG: Major learning for me as a model is that you go to do a different job every day. You’re working with a completely new team and ought to learn how to talk to people and how to creatively achieve the same goals. In other words, it’s just about horning your skills.  This evolves from what is expected from you; a shoot (assignment) for your portfolio, what and how you wear, building networks of trusted agencies and friends that will recommend you for shoots, mentor you, and the skills to communicate and strike a deal.

 

What should be kept in mind while pursuing modeling?

TCG: In the context of modeling, the ability to acknowledge one’s potential, capacity and skill-set, and utilise the same to tap the right clients who could be a director, Ad agencies or others is very much important. For a commercial model in Mumbai (referring to tapping the potential clients), there are several agencies that require a different look (as mongoloids) of yours other than the Indian looks (Dravidians/Aryans) for their specific clientele. This has been the Unique Selling Point (USP) to which one should build over and over.       

Have you ever face any difficulties in your profession?

TCG: I often see difficulties as a challenge. And yes, I faced many challenges in my initial days of modeling. Gaining and developing a confidence has been a challenge as the flashing strobes hasn’t turned out to be like applause, but the applause for my discouragement.  And yet, overcoming the same has been a challenge all over, and the moment of acknowledgement of these challenges makes me realized that I have turned my own challenges into positive gains (say for confidence and a broader approach towards the profession).

 

Some parents have negative mindset towards modeling profession. How do you feel?

TCG: Rather, most of our parents have negative mindset in this profession. I also understand that this has evolved from our innate societal values and norms.  Normally I don’t react to them nor feel bad as I know I’m doing my best. Living in a world of choices (one or the other), I simply understand parent’s emotions but pursue what is closest to my heart.

 

Is modeling suitable for Northeast girls? 

TCG: Over three years into this profession, I’d say that any profession is suitable for Northeast girls.

 

Do you feel the necessity of having fashion or modeling institutes in the northeast regions?

TCG: As the NE states continue to sail with the development of the larger world, I do feel the need to introduce fashion or modeling institutes in the NE states so that many young talented boys and girls could get better trainings and absorbed in various industries.

 

What is your hobby?

TCG: My hobby is dancing.

 

Who is your favorite person?

TCG: None, other than my beloved parents.

 

What is your plan for the future?

TCG: In pursuance of my interest, I’m looking forward for opening a Hair & Beauty Saloon or a Modeling Institute or a Studio for modeling. I wish my dreams come true.

What is your advice for our readers?

TCG: For some of us, modeling could be of glamour, sexy and lucrative.  But if we happen to be drifted by these phenomena, we ought to change the path of our profession. More so, in this extremely competitive industry, one can be left out with scores of rejection unless we take precautions at the right moment.  

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal   

for The Mizoram Post, Manipur Chronicle, North East Sun, Zogam Today, Khalvontawi Media 

Lack of Science Teacher Leaves Govt. Mimbung HS Students Struggling

Champhai, July 23, 2013: Just 76 km from Aizawl, students of Govt. Mimbung High School in Champhai district continue to suffer due to the government's negligence, according to SSPP Aizawl (Paite Students' Organisation). The school has been without a science teacher since last August, preventing students from taking their science exam in the first semester.

After the previous science teacher retired, Ms. R. Lalthantluangi, BSc, was appointed under RMSA. However, she served only briefly before being transferred. Since then, the position has remained vacant for nearly a year, leaving many students and parents distressed.

Concerned parents have urged the authorities to take immediate action.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
Special Correspondent
The Mizoram Post, Manipur Chronicle, Zogam Today

AITSA Delhi Condemns Army Atrocities in Manipur

New Delhi, July 22, 2013: The All India Tribal Students’ Association (AITSA) Delhi has expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of atrocities committed by Army personnel stationed in Manipur.

“We have been hearing about several instances of racial slurs and atrocities by the Army, including personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) posted at Imphal Airport. Such conduct feels more like subjugation than protection,” said AITSAD president and social activist Mr. K. Zou.

He emphasised that security personnel should act as protectors, not as invaders or enemies of the poor and innocent people living in remote areas of the country.

The way they treat elderly individuals, simple local people, women, and children while carrying out their duties does not align with the sentiments of the local population. “It appears that sepoys and lower-ranking Army officers are instructed to behave in the most aggressive manner by their commanders, who neither understand nor care about the feelings of the local people,” he added.

A recent newspaper report highlighted the intrusion of Army personnel into a police station in Jiribam, where they allegedly slapped the duty officer on 16 July 2013. Another report in Hueiyen Lanpao described the brutal treatment of Mr. Nailin Malangmei (54) of Satudai village, Khoupum Valley, by the 8th Gorkha Regiment on 14 July 2013, leaving injury marks on his buttocks and causing hearing loss.

K. Zou stated that such atrocities are likely to persist in the absence of local Army commanders in the state. He also noted that the Army consistently fails to show respect to the state’s civil authorities.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
Special Correspondent
THE MIZORAM POST, MANIPUR CHRONICLE, ZOGAM TODAY

Delhi Drowns: Monsoon Rains Expose Government’s Failure

Delhi, once again, found itself sinking under heavy monsoon rains on Saturday, exposing the government's utter failure to manage urban infrastructure. The downpour, which began in the morning and lasted for several hours, turned the city into a virtual swamp.

While the rain brought some relief from the scorching heat, it unleashed absolute chaos -- waterlogged streets, paralysed traffic, and overburdened drainage systems that collapsed under pressure. Despite repeated promises and massive budget allocations, the Delhi government has failed miserably to address the city's crumbling drainage and flood management systems.

Year after year, the same story unfolds: residents wade through knee-deep water, vehicles break down in flooded roads, and essential services grind to a halt. Yet, authorities remain indifferent, offering nothing but hollow assurances and ineffective measures.

The government’s negligence has left Delhiites to suffer the consequences of its incompetence. If the capital of the nation cannot be safeguarded from seasonal rains, what does it say about the state of governance? The people of Delhi deserve better than this annual monsoon disaster.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
Special Correspondent
The Mizoram Post, Manipur Chronicle, Zogam Today

AITSA opposes ST demand : Meitei to be in ST category

IMPHAL, July 19, 2013 [TSE] --- Close on the heels of the UNC and ATSUM registering opposition to the ST status demand by the Meitei community, the All India Tribal Students' Association, Manipur has raised objection to the demand for granting ST status by the ST Demand Committee, Manipur.

AITSA, Manipur has submitted a memorandum to the Governor of the State raising objection to the 'illogical and unconstitutional demand' for the inclusion of the Meitei/Meetei community in the ST category.

Meanwhile, AITSA, Delhi in a statement issued yesterday by its President, K Zou has demanded the Chief Minister of the State to tender apology to the Mongoloid SC community for not recognising SC villages and settlement in the revenue land record of the State Govt even more than six decades of their entry in the lists of SC.

"The Association is shaken and anguish by the reply from none other than the CM, O Ibobi , who said that there is no recognised Scheduled Caste village in Manipur as per the State's land revenue records while responding to a query raised by Thounaojam Shyamkumar, MLA from Andro, in the recently concluded Assembly Session as reported in the local newspapers on June 22," the AITSA statement said.

It is also shocking that when the Govt of Manipur submitted a report on the existence of eight SC villages, to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on June 18, 1965, and also Khwairakpam Devendro, MLA cited that SC villages were mentioned in the Manipur Gazette published in 1994, how can the SC villages in Manipur be treated as unauthorised or illegal settlement, it asked while demanding immediate inclusion of the SC villages in the land revenue record.

The Association also urged the Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee Manipur (STDCM) to publicly express their genuine regrets for the discrimination meted to Meitei speaking SC communities for decades, if they are concerned about restoring peaceful cohesion in the state.

"A section of the indigenous people settling in Sekmai, Phayeng, Khurkhul, Koutruk, Laimaram Kwatha, Laimaram Khunou, Andro and Chairel villages were declared as scheduled caste and listed them in the Constitution of India as Muchi, Ravidas, Namasudra, Patni, Sutradhar and Yaithibi. They have been inhumanly neglected by the subsequent governments and even by the civil society organizations. As both the Meitei and Tribals did not fully consider them as their fellow community, they live in the "no man's zone" of the mindset of people of Manipur," it asserted.

The Govt of Manipur must hang their heads in shame, for attempting to do away the rightful settlement of the SC community, in similar manner in which Kabo Leikai-Naga River lane was demolished recently, it added.

Racial Slur at Hauz Khas Metro: A Personal Experience

This morning, July 19, 2013, at around 11 AM, when I entered the check-gate at Hauz Khas Metro Station, I almost slipped by mistake. Instead of concern, the CIFSF security guard  on duty looked at me and called me “Ching Chong.” I was shocked and hurt by the racial slur.

I calmly asked him, “Why are you calling me that? You can call me an Indian. Am I not an Indian?” He didn’t respond, just smiled, showing no regret.

His name badge read Syed Kharan (I couldn’t read the full surname—it was long, but the last part was clearly “Kharan”).

I’m deeply disturbed by how casually he insulted me in public. I urge the concerned authorities to take action. This kind of racist behavior must not be ignored. People like Mr. Syed need to be trained on how to treat fellow Indians from the Northeast with dignity and respect.

The matter has been formally reported via email to the Director/Managing Director of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (DMRC), New Delhi for necessary action.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

Zomi Doctorate Degree Ngah Kibehlap

Mizogam sunga Aizawl khuapi a om Sia Kham Suan Pau in tunai in Mizoram University, Department of Physics panin Doctor of Philosophy (Ph. D) ngah thak hi.

A dissertation pen, “Thermo luminescence Science of Naturally Occurring Salts Relevant to Dosimetry Obtained from Mizoram” cih ahi hi.

Sia Kham pen Aizawl Zomi Baptist Church ah Local Secretary sem laitak hi a, ZBC gambub khangno kipawlna Zomi Baptist Youth Fellowship ah President semin, ZBC gambup Relief & Development Board ah member khat ahih banah, ZBC Ececutive Committee ah Secretary Junior dinmun a let laitak hi. 

Tua banah, Aizawl Zomi Innkuan ah Secretary leh, Zomi Cultural Society, Mizoram ah Asst. General Secretary a sem laitak ahi hi.

Nasepna lamah Regional Cancer Center, Aizawl ah Radiologist sem a, Radiation Safety Agency, Mizoram-ah a lianpen ahi hi. A lawmnu Sia Elizabeth Hatzaw, Mizoram University professor tawh tapa khat nei-in Mizoram University campus ah teeng uh hi.

Hih banga Pasian a zahtak leh minam a it mahmah khangno khat in hih bang lawhcinna hong neih pen kilungdampih mahmah hi.

AITSA Demands SC Village Recognition in Manipur

New Delhi, July 18, 2013 — The All India Tribal Students’ Association, Delhi (AITSA), has strongly urged the Chief Minister of Manipur to issue a formal apology to the Mongoloid Scheduled Caste (SC) community for the state’s prolonged failure to officially recognize their villages in its land revenue records, despite their inclusion in the SC list over 60 years ago.

In a press statement, AITSA President K. Zou expressed deep anguish over the Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh’s reply in the Manipur Legislative Assembly, wherein he stated that no Scheduled Caste villages are recognized in the state’s land revenue documents. This response, reported in local newspapers on June 22, 2013, was given in response to a query raised by MLA Thounaojam Shyamkumar (Andro).

Zou found this denial shocking, especially when the Government of Manipur itself had submitted a report in 1965 to the Ministry of Home Affairs acknowledging the existence of eight SC villages. Furthermore, MLA Khwairakpam Devendro pointed out that SC villages were documented in the Manipur Gazette in 1994. Given this, it is unacceptable to treat these villages as unauthorized. AITSA echoes the call of MLA Dr. Ibohalbi for the immediate inclusion of these SC villages in the official land revenue records.

AITSA also called on the Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee Manipur (STDCM) to publicly express regret for the discrimination faced by the Meitei-speaking SC communities and demonstrate genuine concern for inclusive peace in the state.

K. Zou also highlighted that indigenous groups in villages like Sekmai, Phayeng, Khurkhul, Koutruk, Laimaram Kwatha, Laimaram Khunou, Andro, and Chairel were arbitrarily classified as SCs under labels such as Muchi, Ravidas, Namasudra, Patni, Sutradhar, and Yaithibi. These communities have long suffered systemic neglect—not only from successive governments but also from civil society—finding themselves alienated from both Meiteis and Tribals, effectively living in a mental and social "no man's zone."

Zou concluded by condemning the Manipur government’s attempt to erase the rightful settlements of these communities, drawing a parallel with the recent demolition of Kabo Leikai near the Naga River. “The government must hang its head in shame,” he asserted.

Bruce K. Thangkhal
THE MIZORAM POST | MANIPUR CHRONICLE

Zo Language Seminar: Binding With a Common Thread

 Binding With a Common Thread

In an effort to consolidate the Zou identity cutting across borders through practice of uniform culture, literature and language, a Indo-Myanmar seminar was organized recently.

By:- BRUCE K. THANGKHAL

United Zou Organisation (UZO) USA, Zou Literature Society (ZLS), Manipur and UZO, Moreh Block organised a two-day Indo-Myanmar seminar on Zou Language, Literature, Culture & Custom and Border Trade Centre Hall in Moreh on May 15-16, 2013. 

The seminar was inaugurated by Mr. Lhukhosei Zou, Chairman, ADC Chandel in the presence of over 100 participants in which 45 Zou delegates from India and 26 from Myanmar attended.

Addressing the gathering, he said, "It's the right time, the Zou all over the world must have a global vision to have one common name."

The resource persons comprised of a  retired senior surgeon Dr. M.Lachinkhai, Chairman ZLS, 

Rev. Dr. Mark Thangkhanai Vice-chariman ZLS and Co-ordiantor of Radio Veritas Asia (Zomi-Chin Service), Aloysius T. Nehkhojang Secy ZLS, advocate Chinlunthang, Gen Secy UZO and Suankhanmang, Adviser UZO.

From the Myanmar side, Tamu Parish priest Rev. Fr. Andrew Cin Go Lian, Kalaymyo KZBC pastor Rev. Go Cin Lang, Zou Synod PCM Yangon pastor Rev. Ai Lien Mang and Kalaymyo ZBZ Mission director Rev. Thang Khan Khai had also presented seminar papers.

The United States-based United Zo Organisation (UZO) General Secretary, Thangboi greeted all the participants in his message, said "I wish our people in India and Myanmar should practice one culture, literature and language".

In Manipur, Zou is one of the 33 recognized tribes having a populaiton of about 20,000. The bulk of Zou populace, around 61,000 lives in Myanmar. The word 'Zou' or 'Zo' is believed to be the progenitor of today's Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi tribes which are predominantly found in Northeast India - Manipur, Mizoram, Assam and Tripura (Zampui hill ranges), Chittagong hill tracts (Bangladesh) and Chin hills(Myanmar).

The term ZO dates back to antiquity, however, historical records refered them a sJo, Yaw, Zhou, Sho, and Zhou which references are found in the Pong Chronciles from AD 80-1604.

The Zou language constitutes Haidawi, Khuangnung, Thangkhal, Khodai and Tungkua dialect. Of which, Haidaw is the most widely spoken among the Zous, while Khuangnung is popular among urban Zou speakers and Thangkhal heavily inflences traditional Zou folk songs. Tungkua and Khodai still remains confined to remote villages. All these contributed to the richness of Zou language. The inclusion of Zou as a Major Indian Language (IX-XII Standard) by the Government of Manipur also contributed to the evolution of Zou as a standar literary language.

The Zou community has a script of its own known as "Zolai" which was developed by a man named, Pu M. Siahzathang in 1952, who still lives in Zoveng, Churachandpur. This script is still being taught within the Zou tribes. Participants at the seminar deliberated on the need to preserve and promote the Zou language, literature and culture.

There is a slight difference in usages and writings among the Zou tribe. For instance, the Burmese Zous prefer to use ZO while the Indian Zous preferred ZOU.

A pastor who heads the Yangon Zou Synod PCM, Rev. Ai Lien Mang said, “From our forefather’s time, we have the same religion, culture and language though there is slight variation today due to geographical areas, but we are still one blood and one such. Let’s not forget all these".

Most of the academic papers, declaration on promoting unity among the Zous and deliberation are completed in simple English. “It is the first time we met together in one big table to discuss how we can organize the seminar again,” wished Dr. Lalthankhum, Chairman, ZLS, Manipur.

The seminar concluded with joint declaration on promoting uniformity in Language, Literature, Custom and Culture among the Zou people. This is the first time we met together and we must join hands together sot hat we can organise the seminar again," wished Dr Lachinkhai, chairman, ZLS, Manipur.

Meanwhile, in ZO Diasporas all over United States flocked together in celebrating the 7th United ZO Organisation conference at Atlanta in Georgia on May 25-26, 2013. Around 2000 people gathered in the event. The two-day conference showcased the cultural items of the ZO people of Myanmar and India as well. Various games and sports competition were also organised.

The numerous cultural events, singings, amusements and funs mesmerized the Zos,who were scattered across many cities in United States. The next conference is slated to be held in Bossier City, Louisiana. The two daylong celebrations ended with traditional dinner.

NORTH EAST SUN | New Delhi |  30 June 2013

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

**************

Manipur bound trucks stranded in Nagaland

Citing security reasons, truck drivers, who are stranded near Kohima due to a landslip, refused to take the Jessami-Ukhrul detour to reach Imphal.

Drivers of Manipur bound trucks and buses have refused to take the Jessami-Ukhrul detour citing security reasons as there will be no armed escorts. A few hundreds of vehicles have been stranded near Kohima, capital of Nagaland due a landslip along Highway 2 on July 13.

The drivers who had been asked to proceed towards Jessami told The Hindu that militants are ruling the roost along this mountain road. There had been frequent reports of abductions of drivers, torching of trucks and other forms of harassments in the region. Trucks, inter-State buses and private vehicles ply along the two Highways 2 and 37, the lifelines of Manipur only when there are armed security guards.

The drivers now stranded in Nagaland are told to proceed to Jessami in Manipur, east of Kohima and pass through Ukhrul district to reach Imphal. Apart from the absence of security guards along the cavalcade of trucks and buses, Ukhrul district has been under siege as the students and NGOs had declared a public curfew demanding the transfer of the collector.

Border Roads Task Force officials said that the landslip cannot be repaired. Instead another bypass has to be constructed by cutting the nearby mountains. Officials added that the legal process for land acquisition and compensation and construction works shall take months to complete.

Meanwhile prices of consumer items in Manipur have increased since most of essentials had vanished from the market. Fuel and consumer items cannot be brought via Highway 37 because of the poor condition of the 222-km long road.
Source: The Hindu

Priyanka Chopra hangs out with Mary Kom in Manipur

Priyanka Chopra, who is playing Mary Kom in the biopic on the Olympic bronze medalist, visited Manipur on Monday and Tuesday. After visiting Mary in the state’s capital, Imphal, the actor was hosted by the boxer and her husband Onler at their native village, Kangathel.

“Mary took Priyanka to the places where she practises and spends time, and introduced her to her coach. Priyanka was looking forward to meet her two-month-old baby and was very happy to see him,” says a source. She also danced with the locals in their traditional costume, phanek.

“This was a purely researched-based trip for the film. It was wonderful for me, Omang (the film’s director) to be hosted by Mary, Onler and her family. The people of Manipur were very gracious and welcoming and we look forward to coming back here soon,” says Priyanka, who turns 31 today.

The actor lost her father earlier this month and will thus have a quiet birthday with family.
Source: HT

KLA warns those involved in killing KLA leader and his daughter

IMPHAL, July 16, 2013 [TSE] --- Condemning in the strongest term the murder of KLO/KLA home secretary and his young daughter, the outfit has warned that it would not let off all those individuals/group involved in the murder.

Speaking to media persons at their designated camp yesterday, KLO/KLA general secretary L Timothy Kuki asked all concerned to explain the double murder on or before July 18 or face dire consequences.

It was a dastardly crime, he decried.

Even if home secretary Seikhopao alias Marwin had committed some mistakes, there was no reason for assaulting his wife and children.

"We want to know the principle and ideology of the group, if they have any", Timothy said.

It was most unfortunate that KLO's home secretary and his daughter were killed at a time when Kuki armed groups as well as civil organisations have come to the path of unification.

The death of Seikhopao alias Marwin is a big loss not only for the outfit but also for whole Manipur.

KLO/KLA's investigation department is investigating the twin murder. But it is too early to name any individual or group, Timothy said.

On behalf of KLO, he conveyed gratitude to all those who helped the wounded and took part in the funeral service from JNIMS mortuary till Saikul.

He also thanked Kuki Inpi Saikul, Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, KSO Ghqs, KSO Sadar Hills, Khongsai Inpi Manipur, leaders and cadres of KNO's member organisations and the general public.

The outfit further conveyed solidarity to the bereaved family.

KLO home secretary Seikhopao was assaulted and killed by some unidentified persons near Champhai village along Imphal-Saikul road. His two and a half year old daughter Hoijoukim who sustained injuries in the attacked later succumbed to the injuries.

In addition, Seikhopao's driver and aunt also sustained injuries.

Tribal Students Shut Down IGNTU in Manipur, Demand Urgent Action

New Delhi, July 14, 2013: “We are trying our best to get attention from the higher authority after IGNTU authority and the Manipur government failed to address our grievances,” said L. Etalakpe, President of the Indira Gandhi National Tribal University Student’s Union, Regional Campus Manipur (IGNTUSU-RCM).

IGNTUSU leaders meet Northeast students at JNU. – BKT

Since June 25th, IGNTU-Regional Campus has remained closed indefinitely as students protest against the negligence of the university authority. However, neither the university officials nor the state government have attempted to communicate with the students to resolve their issues. This compelled the President of IGNTUSU and its General Secretary, KT Lalnihring, to travel to Delhi on July 5. The student leaders met HRD Secretary Ashok Thaken on July 12 and later held discussions with some Northeast students at JNU on Saturday evening.

Indira Gandhi National Tribal University was established in 2009 after prolonged agitation by tribal students of Manipur University against the inadequate reservation of seats for tribals. The students had demanded a separate hill university exclusively for tribals in Manipur but were instead given only the status of a regional campus of IGNTU, headquartered in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh.

Expressing frustration, Etalakpe said, “We had approached tribal ministers, politicians, and student leaders, including the Hill Area Committee, but no one has come forward. We submitted multiple memorandums to Chief Minister Ibobi Singh, but they went unheard. This is how tribal students are neglected in Manipur.”

“We are given a step-motherly treatment by IGNTU. We genuinely need a separate tribal university that can cater to the specific needs of tribal students. There is only one university in Manipur, and it cannot accommodate the growing student community,” Lalnihring added.

The two student leaders plan to meet HRD Minister Dr. M. M. Pallam Raju to highlight the plight of tribal students in IGNTU, Manipur. A memorandum will also be submitted to the President and Prime Minister, they stated.

Although IGNTU was established to provide higher education and research opportunities primarily for tribal students in India, the university has failed to fulfill its mission, especially in its Regional Campus in Manipur. The campus currently has three departments—MA (Political Science), MSW, and MPhil (Political Science)—with a total of 79 students. However, the institution is severely lacking in faculty, infrastructure, and library facilities.

The tribal students had proposed the introduction of specialized courses such as Human Rights, Sociology, Social Anthropology, Tribal Studies, and Physical Education, but none have materialized. They are also demanding the introduction of PhD courses and a 99% reservation for tribals in recruitment, from Grade-IV positions to the highest administrative ranks. Additionally, they insist that key positions, including Vice Chancellor, Director, and Heads of Departments, should preferably be from the tribal community.

Students also raised concerns over the MPhil course at IGNTU-RCM, which is not recognized by other central universities due to its one-year duration. Many students who applied for the Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship for SCs/STs for the 2012-2013 session were not selected despite meeting all eligibility criteria.

Since its inception, IGNTU-RCM has operated from a temporary arrangement at Adimjati Complex in the heart of Imphal, and this makeshift setup continues to this day. Classes are still being conducted from there, while construction of the permanent IGNTU-RCM campus at Makhan village in Senapati district, 25 km away from the state capital, remains incomplete.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

Special Correspondent, The Mizoram Post, Manipur Chronicle, Zogam Today