Inauguration of Cobbler Shed in Gangtok

Gangtok, August 5, 2014: Mr. N.K. Subba, Minister for Urban Development and Housing Department, inaugurated a newly constructed "Cobbler Shed" in the heart of Gangtok, located at Sonam Gyatso Marg (also known as Tibet Road), today.

The shed, implemented by Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC) and funded by the Housing & Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO), covers an area of 425 square feet and can accommodate 15 cobblers. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 23 lakhs, it aims to provide a dedicated workspace for local cobblers.

During his inspection of the shed, Minister Subba urged the beneficiaries to make the best use of the facility and maintain it properly. One of the beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government and relevant departments for providing this much-needed space for their trade.

Inauguration of New Science Library in Gangtok

Gangtok, August 5, 2014: Mr. Tshering Wangdi Lepcha, Minister for Science and Technology, Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management, and Mines, Minerals, and Geology, inaugurated a new Science Library at the UD & HD Building in Development Area today.

During his interaction with officials from the Science and Technology Department and teachers from various schools in and around Gangtok, the Minister emphasized the importance of the library for students. He encouraged teachers and parents to motivate their children to visit the library, stating that although it is small, it boasts a valuable collection of books catering to diverse interests. He urged educators to explore innovative teaching methods to make science engaging and exciting, fostering a greater interest in the subject among students.

Mr. Lepcha also highlighted the need for students to utilize libraries and study centers to enhance their knowledge alongside their regular studies. He expressed gratitude to the Secretary and his team for their efforts in establishing and reforming the library.

Mr. P.T. Euthenpa, Secretary of Science and Technology, shared that the library offers a wide range of books across various subjects, including research materials and studies specific to Sikkim. He urged the community to take advantage of the library's resources, which are free for students.

Ms. Sarala Rai, Special Secretary of Science and Technology, provided insights into the library's background and purpose.

Minister A.K. Ghatani Visits IPR Department in Tadong

Gangtok, August 4, 2014: Shri A.K. Ghatani, Minister for Information and Public Relations (IPR) Department, and Health Care, Human Services & Family Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim, paid a visit to the IPR Department in Tadong today. Upon his arrival, he was warmly welcomed by Secretary Smt. C.C. Wangdi and other officials.

During his visit, the Minister toured all sections of the department, engaging with sectional heads and gaining a first-hand understanding of their work processes. In a brief meeting with the department's officers, he reviewed the department's activities and functions.

Minister Ghatani emphasized the importance of aligning the department's efforts with the government's programs, policies, and vision. He urged the officers to work in a coordinated manner to ensure effective dissemination of the government's vision at the grassroots level.

Secretary Smt. C.C. Wangdi provided the Minister with an overview of the department's ongoing initiatives and activities.

First Price Monitoring Committee Meeting held in Gangtok

Gangtok, August 4, 2014: Mr. N.K. Subba, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department, chaired the first meeting of the Price Monitoring & Regulating Committee in Gangtok today. 

Organized by the Legal Metrology Unit and Consumer Protection Cell under the FCS&CA Department, the meeting was attended by Zilla Adhyakshas, Upadhyakshas from the four districts, Deputy Mayor of GMC, secretaries of various government departments, and representatives from organizations such as SIMFED, NABARD, and IOCL.

The meeting focused on critical issues such as the regulation of prices for essential commodities, strategies to prevent hoarding, and the enhancement of supply chains. Minister Subba emphasized the importance of collective responsibility, noting that laws alone are insufficient for effective price monitoring. He urged stakeholders to raise awareness about pricing and consumer rights to ensure market transparency. The Minister also addressed challenges such as inadequate storage facilities and unethical trade practices, highlighting ongoing departmental efforts to tackle these issues.

The Minister took the opportunity to commend the State’s recognition for its achievements in organic farming, as mentioned by the Prime Minister during his recent address in Nepal. He stressed the need for continued dedication from all departments to maintain the progress made in this field and assured strict monitoring to ensure that only organic produce is sold in upcoming Kisan Bazars.

In addition, Mr. Subba called for the swift implementation of the National Food Security Act and encouraged local authorities to create a systematic approach to selecting beneficiaries. He also highlighted the recent introduction of an SMS system for booking LPG refills, urging local institutions to raise awareness among rural populations.

Earlier in the meeting, Secretary D.P. Sharma provided a report on the committee’s functions, drawing attention to a recent National Conference chaired by Mr. Arun Jaitley, where strategies to prevent price rises were discussed. He also highlighted the efforts of the Legal Metrology Unit in enforcing regulations on pricing, packaging, and expiry dates, as well as the establishment of consumer protection mechanisms in the state.

India & Myanmar: Pitching for Greater Connectivity

Date: 04 August 2014

Photographs by:-
Bruce K. Thangkhal
New Delhi

Look East Policy Conference : C. Lalremruata, Zo Indigenous Forum

Mr. C. Lalremruata, Director of the Zo Indigenous Forum, Aizawl, presented a paper titled “Indo-Myanmar Border Development – Mizoram Perspective” at the conference on Look East Policy: India and Myanmar Pitching for Greater Connectivity held at the Institute of Social Sciences, New Delhi, on August 04, 2014.

Pic: BRUCE K. THANGKHAL

People need to aware on the annual budget fixed by the government: Chinglen

Imphal Aug 3, 2014: The annual budget of Manipur 2014-15 which was recently passed by the monsoon budget session in Manipur Legislative Assembly august was a confuse budget just to show the centre as good record for government but mostly affected to the public said Dr Chinglem Meisnam Department of Economic.

This was reflected in his speech in a consultation on “Central and State budgets 2014” which was held at the Irabot Bhawan near BT road today. Chingle further said that the Ibobi government didn’t show the Actual fiscal budget and the current budget is not shown but the future is kept to the centre.

He said that the centre expert might be confused on the Manipur budget report 2014-15. The state budget is not reference from the previous budget. The annual budget is just increase 2 percent of fiscal budget from the previous budget but in figure of amount it is there was 9400 crore and this year 9600 crores. It means the budget is contracted form.

From the current year budget victimize will be in the inflammation, power department, social welfare department because this year the said department has deducted huge amount from the previous budget allotted, said Chinglen.

The state budget is show less deficit from the previous and a good record before the new NDA government in the centre. The very unfortunate is that the Legislature members who are sitting in the Assembly house have not conduct argument or deeply discuss during the budget discussion.

He further said that the former UPA-II budget of the union government was a silent killer and the present government NDA budget which was passed recent by the Union Finance Minister Arun Jetli is like violent killer against the India poor people. Under the aim of minimum government and maximum public privatization is just the government is for Co-operate groups only.

The contract employee in RMSA or SSA might be scribe because the flagship and central sponsor scheme are discuss to cut off by the central government. Some example is Jnrum has been extinct now and next target is MGNREGS, food security Act etc, Chinglen said.

He said that when the intellectual persons are defusing by the government than the government is not a good governance. Under the PPP model our Loktak Lake is going to handed over to a Bangkok firm for renovate the lake.

At the same time the union budget is also same to that of our state that it shows the good layers only for promoting country it performance in the world but the interior is full of problem especially to poor needy people of the country.

Chinglen Meisnam further said that Tripura was same with our state government in fiscal deficit last year but this time they have high fiscal budget this year from Manipur. They can this due to the state own resource from the tax of 1200 crore but in our state tax is confused from long run.

Tripura can meet the targeted after expending but Manipur couldn’t. And Manipur has 100 more central sponsor and flagship programme from last few years. 

Around 17000 crore is used from it after borrowing from outside. When the borrow money is to give-up whole budget is expend.

Dr Nara State Secretary CPI, said that the topic today we discuss is a new task to all of us. Today we knew that the annual budget is very much important for people of the state.due to lack of conception of planning in our state people are facing problem.

Till today the state government is not set even one month assembly budget but the Parliament directive asked to sit atleast 55 days working for development and planning for the coming years. 

~ Universal News Agency

Manipur Pineapple Queen Contest 2014 screening on 9th August

Imphal Aug 3, 2014: The Screening – cum- Rehearsal for the ‘Manipur Pineapple Queen Contest, 2014’ will be held on 9th August, 2014 (Saturday) at Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul from 10:00am onwards.

The contest is open to all eligible girls of Manipur. Aspiring contestants between the ages of 18 – 30 years may report at the screening venue along with 4x6 recent photographs, I-D Card for proof of identity and age and a fee of Rs 500.00 (Five Hundred) only said a press statement of Manipur Pineapple Festival Committee.

The contest is to be held during the 7th State Level Manipur Pineapple Festival at Sendra, Bishnupur District, Manipur on 23rd August, 2014 as part of promotional campaign of pineapple.

The winner of the Manipur Pineapple Queen Contest will be richer by Rs 50,000.00 (Fifty Thousand), the 1st runners-up with Rs 40,000.00 (Forty Thousand) and 2nd runners-up with Rs 30,000.00 (Thirty Thousand) respectively.

And there will be five sub-titles carrying a cash prize of Rs 5,000.00 (Five Thousand) each. Consolation prize will be arranged for all selected participants of the Contest. Further information, if any, can be had on this mobile number 9862950205 according to the information and publicity wing of the pineapple queen committee.

~ Universal News Agency

Zillai felicitated eight successful candidates of MPSC

Imphal Aug 3, 2014: The Zillai (Vaiphei Students’ Association) General Headquarter organize a felicitation programme for the eight successful candidates of Vaiphei community in Manipur Public Service Commission 2013.

The felicitation programme was held at the residence of KT. Vaiphei IPS, IGP (Intelligence) at Paite veng, Imphal yesterday where the eight successful candidates were felicitated with a memento by the Zillai GHQ on the occasion.

The eight successful candidates are S.L. Niangthianhoi Vaiphei -MFS (Forest), Alfred Zamlallum Khaute - MCS, Shokhongam Baite- MPS, William Jangkhosuon Baite –AE (Civil), Thanglalsiam Thangluai –AE (Electrical), Khaute Ginjalal Vaiphei – AE (Civil), Mangminlian Vaiphei –MFS (Finance) and D. Khuala Vaiphei on promoting to Project Manager in NERCORMP.

Speaking at the occasion MLA T. Manga Vaiphei said that he is just an elected members and had never been in the service so he don’t have much to advise them but the only thing he can said is that never encourage corruption.

Apart from the MLA T. Manga Vaiphei, bureaucrat officer like Minilianthang Vaiphei IAS, P. Vaiphei IAS, KT. Vaiphei IPS were also present during the programme and all of them also stressed on against corruption to the newly appointed officer.

~ Universal News Agency

BJP mass enrollment campaign for Henglep Mandal 57 launch

Churachandpur Aug 2, 2014: The campaign was lounge by BJP national executive member    Chungkhosei Haokip who also act as the chief guest by launching the party flag  on the occasion. After the hoisting of the party flag at the center the campaign was dedicated to God by pastor Asapau on Saturday.                             

BJP Henglep Mandal president Sakhohau on the occasion introduce the leaders and dignitary of the party and the 16  Henglep Morcha executive while appointing Gaisim Paumei as the Henglep Mandal mahila prrsident.

              

On the occasion the Ccpur mahila Morcha president Tingkhonei and vice president Ngaineikim also spoke where they talk at length about the secular about the secular respect of BJP and empowerment of womenfolk for which they sought the help of the Menfolk.               

 

The chief guest C. Haokip and Ccpur District president of BJP H. Khaisei, on the occasion talk on the same vein by saying that it was the BJP that help the hill people or the poor people which is shown by the initiative of the infamous job card during AB Vaspayee time as the PM.   

        

We had been misinformed about the secular credential of BJP by the Congress but in fact they are the one who stand by us' the chief guest says.   

 

The leaders also tell the people that being Lotus, symbol of BJP, was blossoming  at the center now and was about to do likewise in the state the members of BJP should made sure that the coming election of MDC should not be wasted as the people are not getting their due share.

~  Universal News Agency

KNO/ZRF Defence Director Shot Dead, KNO Condemns

Imphal, July 30, 2014: The Kuki National Organization (KNO) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nicholas, Defence Director of the Zomi Revolutionary Front (ZRF), who was shot dead on July 28.

In a condolence message, KNO president PS Haokip stated that Nicholas was killed around 11:30 PM at his residence in B. Vengnom, Churachandpur district, Manipur. The attack, carried out by five members of the Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA), took place in the presence of his wife and 3-year-old son.

Haokip acknowledged the immense loss, saying, “The void left by Nicholas’ death is immense, but his sacrifice for the Kuki nation will not be in vain. His death will serve as a catalyst to fulfill the sacrifices he has made. The entire armed wing of KNO and the Kuki people will leave no stone unturned to fulfill his dream of a fully revived Kuki nation.”

The KNO strongly condemned the killing, calling it a “dastardly act”, and extended heartfelt condolences to Nicholas' grieving family. 

Haokip emphasized that Nicholas' contributions to both the KNO and the Zo Nation will be cherished and remembered.

Manipuri Man Brutally Assaulted in Gurgaon, One Arrested

A 39-year-old man from Manipur, P. Soizamuan, was allegedly beaten by two brothers in Gurgaon-Haryana, on the night of July 27, 2014, around 11 p.m. Soizamuan sustained injuries to his head, waist, and chest from the violent assault and was admitted to a nearby private hospital for treatment.

The attack occurred when the two brothers, Sujit (24) and Ajit (23), forcefully entered Soizamuan’s home in Nathupur. 

In a brutal display of aggression, they beat him in front of his wife, their two young children - aged 3 years and 6 months - and his sister.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

Media In-charge

North East Support Center & Helpline, New Delhi

Manipur Assembly Decides to Upgrade RIMS to AIIMS Status

IMPHAL, July 25, 2014: Manipur assembly on Friday unanimously passed a private member resolution on upgrading the premier hospital of the state— Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) — to the status of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). 

The private member resolution was jointly moved by ruling Congress legislators L Nandakumar and Dr Ng Bijoy in the House. They also detailed on how the RIMS was set up. The two MLAs said the state hospital has been highly regarded by the country as a good medical institute. 

They said RIMS should be upgraded to the status of AIIMS and in this regard, they sought support from all the legislators in passing the private member resolution. 

Dr I Ibohalbi with all the opposition leaders supported the proposal for passing the private member resolution. 

Manipur Health Minister Phungzathang Tonsing said that it was the right time to upgrade RIMS to the status of AIIMS and supported the resolution. [NNN]

Three Killed by Lightning Strike in Tripura

Agartala, July 25, 2014 (IANS): Three people, including a school student, were killed and two others injured when lightning struck them in Tripura Friday, an official said.

Ashes Nath, 13, a class VII student, Ram Bahadur Reang, 45 and Khagendra Reang, 55, were killed on the spot when lightning struck them in separate incidents in Kanchanpur area of northern Tripura.

"Nath was returning home from school while the other two men were working in their rubber gardens when lightning struck them," an official of the state disaster department said.

Reang was a leader of the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist.

The official said that two other people suffered burns due to lightning in different places of the state.

Rain, accompanied by high velocity winds, lightning and thunder, has been lashing northern Tripura since Thursday, damaging crops and uprooting electric poles and trees.

At least 20 people have been killed in lightning strikes this year in Tripura.

Though the four-month-long (June-September) southwest monsoon hit the northeastern region June 10 and spells of rain followed in most parts of the region, comprising eight states, including Sikkim, the rainfall is much below the normal data.

According to physicists, the northeastern region is a lightning-prone area due to its topography. Lightning claims an average of 100 lives every year, especially in March-May.

Manipur: Three Bodies Discovered in Lamka Town

Lamka, July 25, 2014: Police have recovered three bodies this morning in Lamka town, located approximately 65 kilometers from Imphal, the state capital of Manipur. The deceased have been identified as Paolalmuon, son of Khuma from Moreh; Paothansang, son of Khamlenpao from Sinjol village, Singat; and Seikholun Haolkip, son of Thangkholun Haokip from Songpi village.

One body was found near Sielmat village, while the other two were discovered close to Saikul village. Sources suggest that the three individuals may have been brutally beaten to death, as several bloodstained blunt objects were found at the scene. As of this report, no one has come forward to claim responsibility for this violent act. The bodies are currently being stored in the mortuary of the Churachandpur district hospital in Lamka.

CM Pawan Chamling Meets with Students of South and West Sikkim

Gangtok, July 25, 2014: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling met with students from the South and West Districts at his residence in Ghurpshey, South Sikkim, to discuss the importance of education and personal responsibility. He encouraged the students to identify their life’s purpose, become creators of their own fate, and live with positive aims and objectives to become responsible individuals. Comparing Sikkim’s educational progress with neighboring states, he highlighted the state’s constructive efforts in improving the education sector, urging the students to appreciate these advancements.

Mr. Chamling emphasized that the government’s objective is to provide educational facilities at all levels, with a focus on job-oriented, qualitative education that builds skilled and competent individuals. He reiterated the state’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education for Sikkimese students and shared several initiatives, including the "Prerna Yojna" scheme, which encourages girls to pursue their studies and discourages early marriages, and the "Chief Minister’s Meritorious Scholarship" for high-performing government school students. He also announced the recent move to make education in government schools and colleges free and mentioned the introduction of scholarships for students in the OBC category.

Reflecting on his political career, the Chief Minister stressed that he has never misled students or encouraged negative actions. Regarding the recent college fee hike issue, Mr. Chamling explained that he only learned of the situation after it had escalated while he was in New Delhi for meetings with Union Ministers. Upon hearing of the issue, he immediately directed the Human Resource Development Department (HRDD) to roll back the fee hike and established a one-man committee to investigate the matter. He clarified that decentralization of responsibilities within the government allows departments to make independent decisions, which was the case with the HRDD’s decision on the fee hike.

Although some aspects of the situation got out of hand, Mr. Chamling condemned the unlawful activities that occurred, noting that the students' concerns were hijacked by vested interests, leading them down a negative path. He assured that the inquiry committee’s recommendations would be implemented within 15 days of the findings, according to democratic principles. If the students were not satisfied with the outcome, the government would revisit the matter.

The event was attended by SLA Speaker K.N. Rai, Chairpersons Lakpa Ghising and Girish Chandra Rai, former MLA Binod Rai, SP (South) S.G. Bhutia, DC (South) Prabhakar Verma, ADM (South) Kapil Meena, and SDPO (Namchi) Gigee Norbu.

MTSAM Calls for Vigilance Inquiry into ST Pre-Matric Scholarship

Manipur Tribal Students’ Association Mumbai Calls for Vigilance Inquiry into 
Delays in Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for ST Students

New Delhi, July 24, 2014: The Manipur Tribal Students’ Association Mumbai has urged P.C. Lawmkunga, IAS, Chief Secretary-cum-Vigilance Commissioner of the Government of Manipur, to initiate a vigilance inquiry into the delays in implementing the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in Classes IX and X. They also seek clarification on the utilization of Central Assistance amounting to ₹8,29,70,200, released by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for the year 2012-13 (to be disbursed in 2013-14).

The Association highlighted that the scheme, launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (GoI) in 2012-13, has been neglected by the Tribal Affairs & Hills department of the Government of Manipur until mid-November 2013-14, despite receiving information from Dr. Sadhana Rout, Joint Secretary to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, on September 10, 2012.

They called for the Chief Secretary's personal intervention to investigate why no proposals were submitted to the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs until mid-November 2013, regarding the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for ST students. The Association emphasized the need for a timeline to implement the scheme in Manipur.

According to a Manipur Scholarship Board notification dated January 2, 2014, an amount of ₹8,29,70,200 was sanctioned to the Government of Manipur for the payment of scholarships for ST students in Classes IX and X for the year 2012-13. The fund was allocated as follows: ₹1,00,00,000 as an adhoc release and ₹7,29,70,200 for the second installment of projected expenditure during 2013-14. The total amount is intended to support 27,112 students, including 12,700 hostellers and 14,412 day scholars.

The scholarship for hostellers amounts to ₹4,150 (₹350 per month for 9 months, plus a book and adhoc grant of ₹1,000 annually), while day scholars receive ₹2,100 (₹150 per month for 9 months, plus a book and adhoc grant of ₹750 annually).

Despite the Ministry of Tribal Affairs providing Central Assistance for the scholarships, the Association noted that no "Pre-Matric Scholarship Forms" were issued by the state Department of Tribal Affairs & Hills for the years 2012-13 or 2013-14, hindering the selection of beneficiaries.

The Association demanded a vigilance inquiry to determine how much of the Central Assistance has been utilized by the Government of Manipur, along with a detailed investigation into the identities of the 27,113 students. They also insisted that if any funds have been disbursed, the state Department of Tribal Affairs & Hills should clarify the selection process and publish the beneficiaries' list, including their school names and payment dates, on their official website (www.tahmanipur.gov.in) to allow tribal communities to verify the legitimacy of the candidates.

The Association criticized the state Department of Tribal Affairs & Hills for failing to advertise the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme and for only issuing application forms in 2014 for the academic year 2014-15. They expressed concerns over the potential misuse of the Central Assistance of ₹8,29,70,200, given that there were reportedly no applicants for the year 2012-13.

The group called for a thorough investigation into the administrative lapses and questioned whether the officials involved in the implementation of the scheme should continue in their roles, given their failure to support tribal communities. They stressed that thousands of ST students in Classes IX and X from 2012-13 and 2013-14 have been deprived of scholarships due to the negligence of the relevant authorities. They demanded accountability for the officials handling the scheme and urged the government to take action against those responsible for denying opportunities to thousands of ST students over the past two years.

Manipuri man's killing: Five men sent to custody

New Delhi, July 24, 2014 (IANS): A Delhi court Thursday sent five men, arrested for the killing of a 29-year-old Manipuri BPO employee in the city, to 14 day's judicial custody.

Metropolitan Magistrate Ashok Kumar sent Azad Choudhary alias Bhola, 24, Sanjay Basoya, 24, Shakti Basoya, 21, and Rajiv, 25, and Lokesh to judicial custody till Aug 7.

Akha Salouni was beaten to death Monday following a spat with the youths while he was going to a friend's house in south Delhi's Kotla Mubarakpur area.

Meanwhile, Rajiv's counsel Lavkesh Chaudhary requested the court to preserve CCTV footage which is material piece of evidence in the case.

2,432 Militants Arrested; 10 Police Personnel Involved in Vehicle Lifting: Gaikhangam

Imphal, July 23, 2014: Home Minister Gaikhangam reported that a total of 2,432 militants have been arrested by state forces, along with the seizure of ₹61,86,723 from April 1, 2012, to July 18, 2014. This was revealed today during a question-and-answer session in the Budget session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly.

In response to MLA L. Ibomcha’s inquiry about the number of militants arrested during this period, Gaikhangam detailed the statistics. From April 1 to December 31, 2012, 919 underground (UG) cadres were arrested, along with 11 from other states, resulting in the confiscation of ₹43,64,850. In 2013, another 904 UG cadres were arrested, including one from outside the state, with ₹12,99,548 seized. So far this year, 592 UG cadres have been apprehended, along with five from other states, and ₹5,22,325 has been confiscated.

Gaikhangam noted that 1,154 UG cadres are currently in judicial custody, while eight are in police custody. A total of 1,270 UG cadres have been released on bail, contributing ₹11,05,100 to the state, with ₹50,81,623 held in police custody pending investigation. He emphasized that charge sheets for all UG cadres are being prepared by the home department.

Addressing another query from MLA Ibomcha, Gaikhangam disclosed that 237 vehicle lifters have been arrested, with no pickpockets identified. Among the arrested, ten personnel—four from the IRB, three from the VDF, and three police officers—have been implicated, and appropriate disciplinary actions have been initiated.

Gaikhangam provided a year-wise breakdown of vehicle theft cases. From April 1 to December 31, 2012, 116 vehicle lifters were arrested, including one IRB and three VDF personnel. In 2013, 83 vehicle lifters were apprehended, with three IRB personnel and one police officer involved. This year, 38 vehicle lifters have been arrested, with two police personnel implicated. He stated that immediate action has been taken against personnel not on regular duty, while those in regular service are undergoing departmental inquiries.

To date, 109 vehicles have been returned to their owners, but no financial reimbursements have been made. Additionally, 21 vehicles are still pending return pending verification. Gaikhangam confirmed that 193 lifters are in judicial custody, while 44 individuals have been released on bail. One charge sheet has been filed, with ongoing investigations and final reports being expedited. Personnel involved in these cases have been suspended, and one VDF member has been terminated, Gaikhangam added.

Muslim civil bodies burn First Word magazine & Imphal Free Press

Imphal Jul 23, 2014 : Eight different civil organization of Muslim on Wednesday burn Delhi base magazine called First Word along with one local daily Imphal Free Press for publishing a wrong story.

The eight civil organizations are Popular Front of India-Manipur Unit, All Manipur Muslim Students’ Organisation, United Manipuri Muslim Woman’s Development Organisation, All Manipur Muslim Organization Coordinating Committee, Manipur Muslim Online Forum, Anjuman Ishlahe Muasharah, Muslim Students’ Union of Manipur and Manipur Minority Youth Development Organization burn the magazine and the local papers along the effigy of the reporters for false reporting about the joining of Al Qaeda by the youth of Lilong.

The daily local paper was burned for republishing without any enquiry about the fact said one of the leaders present in the site of the burning of magazine.

According to one Md. Altaf (40) son of late Md. Sanou whose name was also listed by the said magazine as one of the person who join Al Qaeda from Lilong was shock when came across his name.

The Muslim civil organization also demanded a clarification from Sujit Chakarborty, who filed the story at First Word magazine. 

~ Universal News Agency

Mortal Remains of Shaloni Returned to Home After Brutal Killing in Delhi

IMPHAL, July 23, 2014 [NNN]: The body of Akha Shaloni, a 30-year-old man from Karong (originally from Tungjoy) in Senapati district, Manipur, who was brutally beaten to death in New Delhi, was brought back to his village today.

At approximately 11:30 AM, Shaloni’s remains arrived at Imphal Airport, where a large crowd gathered to receive him.

Floral tributes were paid to the late Akha Shaloni by various groups, including the Naga People's Organisation (NPO), All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Senapati District Students Association (SDSA), All Tribal Students Union, Manipur (ATSUM), and Senapati District Women Association (SDWA), along with many well-wishers. Church leaders also offered prayers at the airport.

Following the ceremony, Akha Shaloni's body was taken to Senapati in a large convoy organized by civil organizations.

Johnny Mao, a representative of the North East Students Association in Delhi, and Abraham, president of the Poumai Students Union, expressed at the airport that the student bodies from the North East alone cannot combat the rampant racism faced by their community in mainland India. They called on both politicians and civil organizations to join their campaign against racism.

Akha Shaloni was killed by five individuals in Delhi’s Kotla Mubarakpur on the night of July 20. He had previously worked at a BPO.

PHOTOS

Rest in Peace, Dear Brother

Our hearts are heavy with grief as we mourn. 

We will fight relentlessly for Justice.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

Media Incharge
North East Support Centre & Helpline
New Delhi

Protest: Justice 4 Nido Tania
Raising Awareness on Racial Attacks
Valentine's Day with Delhi Police: Justice 4 Nido Tania
Northeasterners unite Against Racial Slurs

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NPF condemns the killing of Shalouni in Delhi

MPHAL, July 23, 2014 [NNN]: The Naga People's Front (NPF), Manipur State has called for a common agenda of all the state governments in the North East region in order to safeguard the people of the region in the mainland India.

Addressing a section of media persons here in his office, NPF, Manipur State general secretary Athuan Abonmai said inspite of different political affiliation and ideologies all the state governments in the North East region should urgently put their heads together to find out means for protecting the North East people in the mainland India especially in New Delhi.

"All the North East state governments should collectivey join hands to formulate an effective policy to address the prevailing issue where racial discromination, killings and harassments to the North East people are going on in the mainland India especially in the nationa capital," Athuan Abonmai urged.

According to him, for a long time the people from the North East region have been discriminated in the mainland India which is racial in nature. He terms such development barbaric. The NPF leader also said that mentally the people of the North East residing in the mainland India are in painful situation. He also said the gap between the mainland India and the North East region is fast widening. He urged that the concerned authority should address the situation on urgent vein before things fall out of gear.

"Assurance after assurance to deal the situation by the Central government every time an incident happens carries no meaning and we are no more to be fooled in that line," Athuan Abonmai asserted.

Condemning the killing of Akha Shaloni from Senapati district in Delhi on July 20 night by five persons, the NPF leader demanded a thorough investigation by a high investigating agency and punish the culprits befittingly.

48-Hour Bandh in Naga Areas of Manipur

IMPHAL, July 23, 2014: With no action comes forth from the Central government to its five days ultimatum, the United Naga Council (UNC) today announced to impose 48 hours vehicular movement in all the national highways in Naga areas in Manipur from midnight of July 24.

According to the UNC, on July 18, a memorandum was dispatched to the Prime Minister of India in which it had reiterated that the Government of India must expedite its intervention with an alternative arrangement, outside the Government of Manipur pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue and also demanded the Government of India's intervention for revocation of the vitiating 144 CrPC, removal of the state forces including police commandos and Manipur IRB from 'Naga areas' and for ensuring that the Government of Manipur observes the ground rules of the cease-fire in letter and spirit within five days time of that memorandum, which if not considered would be followed with further democratic civil actions.

"Having observed no intervention till date from the Government of India, the custodian of the Indian Constitution, which derives its sanctity from the wishes and will of the people, a 48-hour bandh on all vehicular movement of National Highways in 'Naga areas' ie NH-2, NH-37 and NH-150 will be observed with effect from the midnight of July 24," the UNC said today. 

Educational institutions, medical, power and water supply, postal service will be exempted from the purview of the bandh.

While informing the Naga people to remain alert to face any eventuality at this critical time and situation, the UNC urges the general public for their cooperation and solidarity towards their legitimate demands which is being deliberately  ignored. Any persons violating the vehicular bandh will be doing so at their own risk, it warned.

The UNC then recalled that a 24-hour peaceful total bandh in Naga areas was observed with effect from the midnight of July 15 in protest against the highly vitiated situation brought about by the Government of Manipur after promulgating Section 144 of CrPC in Ukhrul district headquarters in the wake of the unfortunate incident of July 12, 2014. 

"The sentiment of the Naga people on the militarization of Ukhrul town with the deployment of  Manipur Police Commandos and the IRBs was demonstrated loud and clear. However, even after lapse of 10 days, the siege of Ukhrul by the communal state forces continued, disrupting normal life, social functions and church programmes, and creating a war like situation and undermining the democratic rights of the people," the UNC stated. 

~  Newmai News Network

MTSA-M Urges Chief Secretary to Address Pre-Metric Scholarship Issues

Lamka, July 22, 2014: The Manipur Tribal Student’s Association, Mumbai (MTSA-M) has submitted a memorandum to Chief Secretary P.C. Lawmkunga, urging his intervention regarding the non-issuance of the pre-metric scholarship scheme for ST students in classes IX and X.

In the memorandum, the MTSA-M requested an inquiry into the utilization of ₹8,29,70,200 released by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs under the pre-metric scholarship scheme for ST students studying in classes IX and X for the year 2012-13 (released in 2013-14). They highlighted the delay in implementing the scheme, which was initially launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MTA) on July 1, 2012. The MTSA-M pointed out that the state government kept the scheme on hold until mid-November 2013-14, despite receiving prior notifications from the MTA.

The association noted that, while the government appeared inactive, a sanction order was already available on the central MTA's official website. This order confirmed that ₹8,29,70,200 was sanctioned for the payment of the pre-metric scholarship scheme for ST students, aimed at supporting 27,112 students (12,700 hostellers and 14,412 day scholars) at a specified rate.

The MTSA-M emphasized that, despite the grant from the Government of India, the Manipur government had not issued pre-metric scholarship forms for the years 2012-13 or 2013-14, preventing eligible beneficiaries from being selected. They demanded a thorough inquiry to investigate how the funds had been utilized, urging for transparency in identifying the beneficiaries and ensuring their details are displayed on the state government's website for verification.

The president of the MTSA-M called on the Chief Secretary to assess the accountability of officials in the department, questioning their effectiveness in serving the interests of the tribal community. They expressed concern that delays and lapses in releasing scholarship information could negatively impact ST students in Manipur.

The association firmly stated that they would not remain passive observers in this matter, emphasizing the urgency for the state government to act. They expressed disappointment over the lack of advertisements for the pre-metric scholarship schemes and urged for meaningful actions to be taken against any officials found responsible for lapses.

The MTSA-M underscored the need for accountability, asserting that many ST students in classes IX and X have been deprived of their rightful benefits. They are looking forward to a positive response from the Chief Secretary and the government, assuring that they will closely monitor the situation and await further developments.

Sikkim CM Pawan Chamling Inaugurates New School Building at Yangang

Yangang, Sikkim – July 22, 2014: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling inaugurated the newly constructed Multi-Purpose Hall cum 12-room school building at Yangang Senior Secondary School in South Sikkim, amidst a large gathering. Dignitaries present included HRDD Minister R.B. Subba, Former Speaker Kalavati Subba, SLA Speaker K.N. Rai, Ministers A.K. Ghatani, N.K. Subba, S.B. Subedi, G.M. Gurung, Ugen Gyatso Bhutia, Somnath Poudyal, and Tilu Gurung, along with heads of various government departments, Zilla Panchayat members, school staff, students, and the public of the 15 Rangang Yangang Constituency and adjoining areas.

Key Announcements by the Chief Minister:

1. Free Education Initiative: Chamling announced that education in Sikkim will now be free up to the college level, eliminating even minimal fees. Additionally, all previously paid school fees will be fully refunded, making Sikkim the only state in the nation and worldwide to implement such a pro-student policy.

2. Geography Stream Introduction: The school will now offer a Geography stream as per the school administration’s request, with teachers being made available accordingly.

3. Focus on Skill Development: HRDD will emphasize nurturing students' skills to prepare them for competitive exams.

4. 12% Reservation for BPL Students: A new policy by the Central Government will provide 12% reservation for students from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.

5. School Renaming: The newly inaugurated school building has been named after Late Ashraj Subba, the school's first teacher. Additionally, Yangang Government Senior Secondary School will now be known as Late Lobsang Gyaltsen Senior Secondary School, in honor of the land donor.

Addressing the Government College Fee Hike:

Chamling clarified that he was unaware of the fee hike as he was in New Delhi for official meetings with Union Ministers.

• He condemned the disturbances caused in the capital, emphasizing that HRDD promptly rolled back the fee hike decision.

• An inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the matter.

• He accused vested interests of exploiting the situation to instigate unlawful activities in the name of student protests.

• Chamling urged students and civil society to stay away from anti-social activities and remain focused on education.

• He stressed that the protests had adversely affected students by causing school and college closures.

• He encouraged students to uphold moral and ethical values, advocating for a civilized and intellectual approach to resolving issues.

Commitment to the 15 Rangang Yangang Constituency:

Chamling assured the public of his commitment to fulfilling developmental projects in his birthplace. He urged students to utilize the opportunities available in both central and state-run universities. He emphasized the importance of teachers taking on the responsibility of not only educating but also nurturing students to become responsible citizens.

• He pledged to address the shortage of Science teachers and faculty members at Sikkim University.

• He expressed his vision of a self-reliant, educated Sikkim with competent professionals across all fields.

New Infrastructure and Scholarships Announced:

• Skywalk at Bhaley Dhunga: The Central Government has granted environmental clearance for the construction of a Skywalk at Bhaley Dhunga, expected to boost tourism.

• Scholarships and Study Grants: Chamling highlighted merit scholarships and financial aid available for economically disadvantaged students.

• ‘Prerna’ Scheme for Girls: This state-backed scheme promotes girl child empowerment through merit-based scholarships.

• Cash Prizes for CBSE Toppers: He informed students about the cash awards given to Class 10 and 12 toppers.

• He urged youth to embrace honesty, meticulousness, and integrity in their academic and professional pursuits.

• Chamling praised the SICB Livelihood Schools Program, which trains youth in self-sufficient skills, reinforcing Sikkim’s goal of self-reliance.

Upcoming By-Elections:

Chamling appealed to the public to support the candidate nominated by him in the upcoming by-elections. He assured that he would not practice nepotism and would provide fair opportunities to non-family members.

School Tour and Felicitation Ceremony:

Before the official program, the Chief Minister toured the newly constructed building and inspected an exhibition set up by the students.

• The Chief Engineer of HRDD presented a technical report, detailing that the school building houses 12 classrooms on the ground floor and a multipurpose hall on the top floor, along with a well-equipped computer lab and library.

• The school committee submitted an infrastructure report and felicitated Chamling for his contributions to the school's development.

• The public of Yangang also honored him for his relentless service towards the holistic progress of Sikkim.

Minister R.B. Subba’s Address:

HRDD Minister R.B. Subba emphasized the transformative impact of the new school building and called on the public, school staff, and students to protect and maintain the facility.

• He highlighted the relocation of Sikkim University to Yangang, which will spur regional development.

• He urged immediate cooperation in shifting the university from the capital to Yangang.

• He reiterated HRDD’s commitment to deploying trained Science teachers to improve the quality of education.

• He announced 127 para-medical seats reserved for Sikkimese students in institutions outside the state.

• Addressing the recent student protests over the fee hike, Subba advised educators and scholars to discourage students from participating in anti-social activities.

Cultural Program and Conclusion:

The event concluded with a cultural dance performance by the students of Yangang Senior Secondary School. The gathering ended on a high note, celebrating the educational advancements and opportunities being introduced in Sikkim.