NORTH EAST RIDERS MEET 2013

 NORTH EAST SUN | NEW DELHI | OCT 15, 2013 | Pg. 14-15

“Blind Persons Must Be Given Opportunity to Discover Their Hidden Talents” ~ Buata, PhD Scholar, JNU

Pic: BKT

From Struggle to Success: Mr. Lalbuatsaiha’s Story 

of Perseverance, Faith, and Advocacy for the Disabled

THERE is a man who came across diverse difficulties in life. He used to find people willing to read out his books for him. By listening, he learned. In this way, he began his journey into the world of education. Nothing could deter his dream.

“In Mizo society, people simply dumped the disabled persons in confined houses where they were being turned into useless. We should give them opportunity to find out their hidden talents by removing social attitude barriers so that they can contribute to the society,” said Mr. Lalbuatsaiha, a PhD scholar in JNU.

Pic: BKT

Lalbuatsaiha, born on 27 June 1984, to a humble family of Mr. Zosiama and Ms. Rothuami, of Keifang village, Mizoram, has become a living example for many blind people all over Mizoram and beyond. He was the second youngest child born blind among five siblings, three boys, and two girls.

Buata’s father retired as headmaster of Keifang Primary School-III in 2009. His mother is an ordinary housewife. They live in a village about 75 km away from the state capital, Aizawl.

Buata’s childish dream was schooling. “My father is a headmaster. My father used to accompany me to his school. I used to sit among the children listening throughout the day to what they read. I memorized it. I used to carry a pencil and paper like other kids, who were not like me.”

“I jotted down in my notebook without seeing it. I used to show it to my teachers. But how kind and clever they were at that time, which I realized later. Though whatever I jotted had no meaning, my teachers praised me, ‘You are excellent, you can take rest now.’ In those days, my father said he used to wipe his tears secretly while seeing me. For parents, those moments must be really painful.”

In 1991, something changed his life forever. One fine day, an education officer, Ms. Vanlaldiki Sailo, of the then Integrated Education for Disabled Children (SCERT), visited the school where Buata’s dad taught. “My dad told her about me and how I love school. Ms. Sailo, who came to survey the condition of disabled children in government schools, encouraged my dad, informing him that many blind and physically disabled children get formal education in central India and many of them hold higher posts even in government services. Similarly, Mizoram also has a blind school, and many blinds get education from there, with some of them already employed under the state government.”

“When I heard their conversation, I was filled with excitement. Thereafter, I started protesting to my parents to enroll me in Kolasib Blind School, located in Kolasib district, about 160 km away from our village. But they could not imagine the possibility. They cared too much and didn’t allow me. ‘If you study there, you’ll have to sleep alone; you won’t be able,’ they told me. In those days, I never slept alone. I always slept beside my brothers. Since they disallowed me, I began sleeping alone in the sitting room. Even when someone died or when they told ghost stories, I still continued to sleep separately. The next year, I begged my parents again, ‘I can sleep alone now. So please send me to school.’ This year we’re building our house. ‘You’ll surely join next year,’ they responded. I happily waited for the year.”

In 1992, it was like a miracle for Buata, who found means and ways to convince his parents but failed in his several attempts. There came a lady to Buata’s house with Braille instructional materials. The lady, Dailovi, sent by SCERT as a resource teacher, taught him Braille.

Pic: BKT

At the age of nine, Buata joined Class I in the Salvation Army Integrated School for Blind, Kolasib. This school is run by the Salvation Army for the welfare of blind people, especially in the field of education. In this school, blind and sighted children learn together in the same class as well as the same syllabus. However, blind students were given free hostel accommodation, including food, whereas sighted children attended the class as day scholars. Buata joined the hostel happily. Amazingly, he completed three classes (I-III) in the same year. That was 1993, the year Buata waited for! As the saying goes, ‘Well begun is half done’, Buata had already learned Braille from the lady teacher before he actually stepped into class.

Though Buata was the lone blind candidate in the Class IV Board Exam 1994 conducted by the Mizoram Board of School Education (MBSE), he came out with flying colors — topper of the examination center, comprising eight government primary schools, and bagged a merit scholarship for three consecutive years. His academic records proved him to be a brilliant kid. He never seized less than the second rank throughout Classes V-VII, all in I Division, encompassing his classmates who were born with full sight. He passed matriculation from this school in III Division in 2000.

Pic: BKT

In 2002, Buata cleared Class XII (Arts) in II Division from St. John’s Higher Secondary School, Kolasib. In the same year, he studied BA (Hons) Political Science at Govt Kolasib College. One back subject caused him to lose a year. However, he cleared in II Division in 2006. He says there were no ready-made printed books available in Braille for blind students to facilitate their studies. Meanwhile, they followed the same syllabus as sighted students from elementary level to higher studies. So blind students always needed to employ readers to read their notes. In such situations, Buata struggled a lot since the beginning. However, the Blind Relief Association, New Delhi, and Webel Mediatronics Ltd (WML), Kolkata, assisted him in printing some of his study materials in Braille during his BA studies. But he completed all the necessary correspondence by himself with those institutions without taking any help from his teachers.

After graduation, his sister brought him to Delhi for further studies. However, due to a lack of proper information about the admission process, the entrance exams of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi University, and Jamia Millia Islamia University were already over upon their arrival. Buata waited for chances under any available quota for one and a half months. No luck favored him, so both returned home. The next year, he gave the three entrance exams he missed earlier. He could not make it into his preferred JNU but cleared Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI). On 16 August 2007, he began attending MA (Political Science) classes. Since a hostel was not immediately available to him, he put up with Mr. Sangtea, the then General Secretary of Delhi Mizo Zirlai Pawl (Delhi Mizo Students’ Association), and his sister. Afterward, Buata’s sister left for home.

Pic: BKT

Buata entered Old SRK Boys Hostel on 5 September 2007. “Throughout my hostel life, Sangtea and his sister extended their assistance. On weekends, they took me to Mizo Sunday Worship Service. They even accompanied me back to my hostel after the services. They treated me like their own brother whenever I needed help, which I will not be able to forget,” he said.

Upon passing his MA with 55% in 2009, Buata applied for MPhil in JNU. However, he did not believe he would get through. “What came to my mind was to try for MPhil in Jamia, where I completed my MA, which might be easier,” he thought. It was only when his friend Mr. Engkima, a PhD student, informed him that he was selected in JNU. This good news struck him while he was in a mood of returning home after losing hope. “I was too happy, so much so that I couldn’t even sleep that night,” he recounts.

Buata entered JNU on 11 August 2009 and successfully cleared his dissertation titled ‘India-Bhutan Economic Cooperation, 1997-2010’ on 25 July 2011, and was awarded an MPhil degree on 6 February 2012 from the Centre of South Asian Studies, School of International Studies (JNU). Now he is pursuing a PhD in the same center. His research on ‘India-Bhutan Relations: 1998-2013,’ which he plans to complete by July 2015, keeps him busy like a bee.

Pic: BKT

“From Master’s degree, we used screen reader or speech software called JAWS & Kurzweil (JAWS, Job Access with Speech). It was very tough to learn in the beginning, but I could cope later, and it greatly helped me,” said Buata, who was known as the first blind student in the Department of Political Science in Jamia Millia Islamia University. Before him, there was no blind student ever present in this department.

“I am very grateful to many people to whom I owe thanks. Some of which I can’t ignore are Mr. Engkima, Mr. Biaka, and Mr. Joseph, all of whom were research scholars in JNU who helped me innumerably in my MPhil research work. I also thank Delhi Mizo Inkhawm (Delhi Mizo Christian Fellowship), Delhi Mizo’s Welfare Association, and DMZP for appreciating my talent and ability. I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Salvation Army and SCERT (IEDC Cell) for their constant support from elementary to my graduation. Lastly, I express my deepest thanks to our Almighty God and my parents, brothers, and sisters for their unwavering love, care, and support in every phase of my life,” said Buata with heartfelt gratitude.

Reflecting on his journey, Buata emphasized the importance of determination and perseverance, even in the face of immense challenges. “Nothing is impossible for those who are willing to work hard and trust in God’s guidance,” he remarked.

Buata’s achievements serve as an inspiration to many, particularly those who face similar challenges. His success story is a testament to the fact that with the right support system, opportunities, and unwavering faith, individuals with disabilities can break societal barriers and reach great heights.

Despite his remarkable achievements, Buata remains humble and grounded. He continues to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities and strives to inspire others to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles they face.

As Buata continues his PhD journey at JNU, his dedication and resilience remain a source of hope and encouragement to many, proving that disabilities do not define a person's capabilities or limit their potential.

Buata depends on seven percent of his eyesight, yet he has broken many records. He is the first blind person to complete a BA honours in Mizoram, the first Mizo blind to complete an MA and MPhil, and he is currently enrolled in a PhD.

Pic: BKT

As Mizos are well known for their zeal of ‘Tlawmngaihna’ (altruism), the same goes for Buata, who never turns anyone down. He brilliantly understood English grammar from the very beginning of studying elementary English grammar. This enabled him to write letters properly in English from Class VI onwards, even in a Mizo medium. Though he was young, he could explore many blind organizations in different parts of India and foreign countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, making correspondence by sending letters in Braille.

From that stage, he used his unique talents and capacity to help his fellow blind students in need, providing Braille literature and other necessary items. He even assisted newly established blind schools in Mizoram by supplying addresses of resourceful organizations in both domestic and foreign countries, facilitating their correspondence with other institutions.

Buata’s good works did not go unnoticed. He received the Best Excellency Award from the Government of Mizoram in 2004 on the occasion of World Disabled Day, i.e., December 03. He said: “Some blind students and people working in rehabilitation sectors for persons with disabilities in both government and NGOs have approached me for advice in their studies and activities. I have helped them by giving proper information and valuable suggestions either through telephone or e-mail. If anyone needs help, I am always ready.”

Besides education, Buata is also involved in social and religious activities. He sometimes forgets his blindness, he says, with a smile. Buata was the Co-convener and Convener of JNU-Visually Challenged Forum in 2012 and 2011; an Executive Member of JNU Christian Fellowship from 2010-2012; Co-convener of JNU Northeast Students Forum from 2012-2013; a Life Member of the National Federation of the Blind, New Delhi; and also an Active Member of the Volunteers for the Blind Foundation, New Delhi.

Pic: BKT

Buata can visualize the shape, size, location, and distance of his surroundings. He stayed in a single room in Kaveri Hostel, which has a table, a cupboard, and a courtyard where some of his utensils were kept properly. He can easily go out, get the broom, and sweep his floor. His bedsheet looks neat and tidy. When asked why, he responded politely, “You know, I am a good washer-man. I can bathe and iron my clothes as you do.”

Buata has shown his computer skills by using the keyboard and mouse. He knows the location of his files and documents stored on his computer. Close your eyes for a while and try to operate your computer, laptop, or cellphone. How do you feel? It’s not easy at all! But Buata can even text and read SMSes. He can play, jump, and walk around the JNU campus. For unfamiliar places, “I need a guide,” he says. “If I’m in Aizawl, I don’t need anyone because Mizo drivers are considerate of pedestrians. But in a less-caring city like Delhi, I need a guide because any vehicle could knock me down anywhere.”

While chatting for quite a long time in his room around midnight, with a big smile, Buata stared at me and took out some bottles and eatables from his cupboard. It was surprisingly two bottles of Maaza and five packets of banana chips, which we hastily drank and ate. He never forgets the place where he keeps things. He works systematically. He has overcome darkness in many ways. A committed Christian and well-disciplined man, Buata loves reading books and playing guitar. He aims to be a lecturer in college or university.

 

~ BRUCE K.THANGKHAL

New Delhi | 20 December, 2013

Special Correspondent for The Mizoram Post |  Zogam Today

Exclusive Interview with Remkimi Cherput

Remkimi Cherput was born into a humble family in Aizawl’s Chhinga Veng. She is the youngest child of Mr. C. Lalpara and Mrs. Lalremruati, with an older sister and brother.

She won the hearts of Mizos with her song "When You Go Home..." and became the Mizo Idol in 2007. Recently, she completed her final BA exams at Indraprastha College for Women, Delhi University.

Our Special Correspondent, Bruce K. Thangkhal, interviewed her in New Delhi.

Can you share your educational background?

Remkimi Cherput: I studied Nursery to 5th grade at Nazareth English School, Aizawl; 6th to 8th at Auckland House School, Shimla; 9th and 10th at KV Multipurpose School, Aizawl; and 11th and 12th again at Auckland House School, Shimla.

What attracted you to music?

Remkimi Cherput: I can best express myself, my feelings, and emotions through music. That’s what attracts me the most.

Who inspires you to sing?

Remkimi Cherput: Many amazing people inspire me, but my biggest inspiration is my mom. She is strong, hardworking, and loving.

What’s your hobby?

Remkimi Cherput: Singing, playing musical instruments... and laughing!

What type of songs influence you?

Remkimi Cherput: I listen to many kinds of songs, but I am mostly influenced by the lyrics, whether it's a hymn or a love song.

When did you start singing?

Remkimi Cherput: I started singing when I was four. After school, I attended music classes with Mr. Rualthankhuma Chhakchhuak. I was in junior school then.

When was your first performance?

Remkimi Cherput: It was at a Children’s Sunday Service. I was five when I played the guitar and sang a hymn.

How do your parents react to your singing?

Remkimi Cherput: My parents have always been very supportive. I wouldn’t have come this far without their encouragement.

Some say singing love songs is not good for Christians. What do you think?

Remkimi Cherput: I believe every song has its own time to be heard and felt. I’m not against love songs or hymns.

What do you think about Delhi?

Remkimi Cherput: Delhi is an amazing place and fun to be in, but it makes me sad to hear about crimes like sexual harassment. Otherwise, it’s a nice place to live.

Do you feel safe in your college?

Remkimi Cherput: With all the policemen around, I do feel safe (laughs), but it’s always good to stay alert.

What do you think causes crimes against women in Delhi, like the 2012 gang rape?

Remkimi Cherput: I believe such crimes happen because of a lack of respect for others. It’s terrible.

What message do you have for Delhiites about discrimination against North Eastern people?

Remkimi Cherput: I have good friends from different places who always support me. But sometimes it’s frustrating when people call us names in public and make fun of us. It’s very disrespectful.

Can you tell us about your trip to Japan?

Remkimi Cherput: I visited Japan in 2010 on an educational trip. I stayed with a host family in Hiroshima and attended high school there. I made great friends, and we still keep in touch. I’m grateful to my principal, Mrs. S. John, for the opportunity.

What is your favorite food?

Remkimi Cherput: Anything my mom cooks!

Which country would you like to visit the most? Why?

Remkimi Cherput: There are many interesting countries, but I’d love to visit the USA.

Who is your favorite singer?

Remkimi Cherput: Mitch Grassi from Pentatonix. He’s amazing.

What is your favorite song?

Remkimi Cherput: Back to Black by Amy Winehouse.

What is your favorite music band?

Remkimi Cherput: Panic! at the Disco, The Strokes, One Night Only, Soulmate, Evenflow, Boomerang… many of them.

Have you ever sung in nightclubs?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, but only a few times.

Does singing affect your studies?

Remkimi Cherput: Honestly, sometimes it does. There are times when I focus more on music than studying.

Do you ever feel lonely? What do you do?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes! Since childhood, I’ve been away from home, so I sometimes feel lonely. As a kid, I used to cry, but now I sing.

Have you composed any songs?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, but I don’t think they’re good enough to share.

How many albums have you released?

Remkimi Cherput: Just one, in 2008.

Are you part of a band?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, I’m currently in a Mizo band called Blue Wave.

What is your favorite game?

Remkimi Cherput: Basketball! It’s the only game I know how to play.

Have you ever sung Hindi songs?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, once, when I was in the school choir in Shimla.

Have you performed in your college functions?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, I do.

Who were your childhood friends? Who is your best friend now?

Remkimi Cherput: I had many childhood friends, but we all went our separate ways. Facebook is the only way to keep in touch. My best friend now is Ruby Sailo.

Do you sing in church?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, I sing Mizo hymns in church services.

What places have you visited?

Remkimi Cherput: I’ve been to Egypt, and it was fantastic.

How do you spend your Sundays?

Remkimi Cherput: I go to church and then hang out with friends.

What are your college timings?

Remkimi Cherput: Classes start at 8:40 AM and end at 2:30 PM, with breaks in between.

How did you take part in Mizo Idol 2007? What was the prize?

Remkimi Cherput: My teachers and family encouraged me to participate. I had no confidence at first, but they believed in me. I won cash, gifts, and, most importantly, friendships and memories. It was a big event in my life.

What do you want to do after graduation?

Remkimi Cherput: I’d like to work if I find a good job.

What is your goal in life?

Remkimi Cherput: To stand on my own feet, live a decent life, and help others.

What are your future plans?

Remkimi Cherput: I want to succeed in my career and make my parents proud. I’d love to give back to them for everything they have done for me.

What would you like to say to your fans?

Remkimi Cherput: Thank you to everyone who listens to my music and supports me. God bless you all! Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

~ The Mizoram Post | Manipur Chronicle | Zogam Today

ZOLMA to Be Held in Lamka, Promoting Music and Culture

ZOGAMonline, a popular website, is gearing up to host the 2nd ZOGAMonline Music Award 2013 at YPA Hall, Hiangtam Lamka, Manipur, on December 27.

ZOLMA is one of the biggest annual music awards in Lamka. The first edition, held at YPA Hall last year, received widespread appreciation and applause from the public.

“The event aims to promote the arts and culture of the Zo people through music, inspiring learning and embracing diversity among our youth. We expect this year’s edition to be even better, making it the biggest musical extravaganza ever to resonate across Lamka and its surroundings,” said Mung Ngaihte, web administrator of ZOL.

Activist Who Led Protests Against Delhi Gang-Rape Becomes Victim Herself

New Delhi, 18 Dec 2013: A year after the brutal Delhi gang-rape on 16 December 2012, a young woman who actively led protests at India Gate has now become a victim of sexual assault herself. The 25-year-old, who had endured police baton charges and witnessed the fatal injury of Constable Subhash Tomar during the protests, is now fighting for justice.

The woman has accused Khurshid Anwar, Executive Director of the Institute for Social Justice (ISJ), of raping her. The police have registered a case under Sections 376 and 328 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

A former Delhi University student, the survivor played a key role in the protests following the gang-rape, which deeply impacted her life. Later, she joined an NGO funded by ISJ and travelled to Uttarakhand to assist flood victims.

In a three-hour testimony recorded by Madhu Kishwar of Manushi, the woman recounted that, upon returning from Uttarakhand on 12 September, she attended a party at Anwar’s residence. “She said that after consuming alcohol, she felt unwell, vomited, and became dizzy. Anwar then offered her his bedroom to rest. When the other guests left, she was still asleep in his room. It was then that Anwar raped her,” Kishwar stated.

According to Kishwar, some guests had offered to stay back to look after the woman, but Anwar declined, saying he would take care of her himself.

The survivor claimed that when she reported the incident to her employers the next day, they discouraged her from undergoing a medical examination. “She said they even washed her clothes to destroy any evidence,” Kishwar added. Since the NGO was funded by ISJ, it may have had reasons to prevent the case from coming to light, she suggested.

Kishwar recorded the testimony on 19 September, six days after the alleged incident. The survivor, who does not belong to Delhi and comes from a financially weak background, was initially hesitant to file a complaint. “She told me her mother was unwell and she needed money to support her. She also struggled with her studies due to her activism. Her friends, however, encouraged her to record her testimony,” Kishwar said. Manushi assured her that they would not take any action unless she wished them to.

While the woman returned home to care for her mother, her friends and fellow volunteers from the NGO approached the National Commission for Women (NCW) to help file a complaint. “We have reviewed the CD, her testimony, and statements from her friends. It is clear that she was raped,” said NCW member Nirmala Samant.

The commission has written to the Delhi Police Commissioner, urging them to investigate. “We sent a letter on 14 December requesting an inquiry and a response within four days. We are still awaiting their reply,” Samant said.

Despite repeated attempts, Khurshid Anwar was unavailable for comment.

A senior police official overseeing the case confirmed that they had registered a complaint under Sections 376 and 328 of the IPC. “The survivor is currently out of Delhi. We have contacted her and requested her statement. She has named the accused and the NGO she worked with. Once she records her statement and undergoes a medical examination, we will question the other individuals mentioned in her complaint,” the officer stated.

Zogam Today | Website

 

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
Joint Editor, ZOGAM TODAY

Consultative Meeting on Socio Economic & Political Issues of Thangkhal Peoples in Manipur

TPO-TYO-TSP-KVD: 

“Consultative Meeting on Socio Economic and Political Issues of Thangkhal Peoples in Manipur”

Date: January 4, 2014                                 

Venue: Lamka, Manipur

Organised by Khalvontawi Delhi

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

*Thangkhal Peoples Organisation (TPO)

*Thangkhal Youth Organisation (TYO)

*Thangkhal Sinlai Pawlpi (TSP)

On Gay Sex: Protest Against Supreme Court’s Ruling

Activists and members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community in Delhi held a protest today (Dec 15) against the Supreme Court’s decision declaring gay sex illegal.

~ BRUCE K. THANGKHAL

Kuki woman scholar awarded Doctorate by JNU

New Delhi, Dec 15, 2013 -- Ruth Nengneilhing Khongsai, a humble and soft-spoken scholar from the Kuki community, has been awarded a Doctorate Degree (PhD) by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Friday. She is the daughter of Rev. Janglet Lunkim from Kangpokpi, Manipur.

Dr. Ruth completed her thesis, titled “Livelihood and Health: A Study Among the Kukis in Manipur,”  under the supervision of Prof. Ritu Priya Mehrotra, Chairperson of the Centre of Social Medicine and Community Health, School of Social Sciences, JNU.

Since May this year, Ruth has been working as a research associate at the Evangelical Fellowship of India Commission on Relief (EFICOR), focusing on maternal and child health.

“Research is a long and laborious process that demands a great deal of patience,” Dr. Ruth shared with our reporter.

Her father serves as a pastor at Kanggui Christian Church, while her mother is a senior staff nurse at the Community Health Centre in Kanggui (formerly Kangpokpi). She is the eldest of three siblings. Her younger brother, Khaiminthang, is currently pursuing a PhD in Korean Studies at JNU, while Kamgougin, a graduate, teaches at a private school and is preparing for central services.

Dr. Ruth holds an MPhil in Social Medicine and Community Health from JNU (2008). She earned an MA in Sociology from North-Eastern Hill University (2004), a BA in Sociology from St. Mary’s College, Shillong (2002), and completed her Class XII at Women’s College, Shillong (1999). She completed her Class X at Kangpokpi Mission High School in 1997. Additionally, she has cleared the NET and JRF examinations.

Looking ahead, Dr. Ruth aspires to explore opportunities in Delhi University and JNU when vacancies arise.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
The MIZORAM POST | MANIPUR CHRONICLE | ZOGAM TODAY

Gorkhaland Demand SPARKS Protest in Delhi

NEW DELHI, DEC 15, 2013 --- Around 2,500 supporters of Gorkhaland gathered at Jantar Mantar, drawing participants from Delhi NCR, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Dehradun, Chandigarh, and the northeastern states. The protest, organized by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJMM), was a three-day demonstration that began on Friday, demanding the creation of a separate state of Gorkhaland.

Prominent GJMM Central Committee leaders, including Roshan Giri, Asha Gurung (wife of GJMM President Bimal Gurung), Dawa Lama, and Sabhasads of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), were present. Senior journalist Swaraj Thapa and Darjeeling MP Jaswant Singh also participated in the demonstration.

Protesters marched from Jantar Mantar to Parliament Street police station, chanting slogans such as “We want Gorkhaland” and “We want justice.” However, Delhi Police blocked their progress with multiple barricades.

Speaking to our reporter, GJMM General Secretary Roshan Giri stated, “We are demanding Gorkhaland in a peaceful and democratic manner. We will fight until we achieve it.”

Ranjan Sharma, Advocate and General Secretary of Delhi Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, highlighted the participation of GJM representatives from Kalimpong Bong Busty, Darjeeling Town Committee, Mirik, Kurseong, and Dooars.

“If the Bill for Telangana is likely to be passed in the ongoing winter session of Parliament, why is the government denying a fair hearing to the Gorkha community, which has served the nation with unwavering faith and loyalty?” GJMM leaders questioned. “The demand for Gorkhaland cannot be shelved merely for political convenience.”

GJMM submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, President, and Sonia Gandhi, emphasizing that the Gorkhas are a competent and deserving yet deprived minority community peacefully advocating for their rightful demand.

“The creation of smaller states has proven successful in Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and Chhattisgarh. It enhances administrative efficiency and fosters economic growth. Therefore, Gorkhaland is not merely a political aspiration but an economically and administratively justified necessity,” the memorandum stated.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
THE MIZORAM POST | MANIPUR CHRONICLE | ZOGAM TODAY

Dr. HH Mate Achieves a Milestone of 100 Awards

Kuki Inpi Manipur Confers Top Award Winner to Dr. Mate

New Delhi, Dec 13, 2013 —  No one in India has ever received 100 awards in their lifetime, but Dr. Houlim Hemkholun Mate, commonly known as Dr. HH Mate, from Manipur — a state often marked by unrest — has achieved this remarkable feat. An eminent scientist, educationalist, social worker, writer, and spiritual leader, Dr. Mate was recently honoured with four prestigious awards: the Rashtirya Shiksha Shree Award, Rashtirya Vikas Shiromani Award, Janseva Sadbhavana Award, and National Corporate Leadership Award. These accolades, presented at the Constitution Club in New Delhi during a Thursday evening event, brought his total award count to 100, with the possibility of more to come.

Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, P. Balram Naik, conferred the awards on Dr. Mate during the National Seminar on Outstanding Contribution for National Progress & World Peace, organized by the Indian Society for Industry & Intellectual Development and the Economic Growth Society of India.

Last month in Dubai, Dr. Mate received four other prestigious awards: the Asia Pacific Global Award, Global Corporate Leadership Award, International Gold Star Award, and International Status Award for Asia Education Excellence, which marked his 96th accolade. Additionally, in December 2011, the Apostolic Theological Seminary in New Delhi awarded him an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree.

Dr. Mate’s lifetime achievements include 30 international awards, 63 national awards, 5 global awards, and 2 state awards, recognizing his multifaceted contributions to society. He has authored over 1,300 articles, 31 research papers, 13 books, and presented 53 seminar papers — 8 international and 45 at national and state levels.

Born in 1957 to Mr. Holkhojam and Mrs. Deihat in Lamjang Village, Chandel district, Manipur, Dr. Mate is the eldest of five brothers and four sisters. He began his education at the age of five and, despite modest academic beginnings, worked diligently to achieve higher qualifications. After passing the HSLC exam with 38% in 1982, he persevered to complete PUC (Sc) with 45%, BSc (Phy) with 58% from Churachandpur College, BE (Elec & Tele) with 63% from AMIETE, New Delhi, MSc (Phy) with 73%, MPhil (Phy) with 75%, and PhD (Phy) with 78% from Osmania University, Hyderabad. Notably, he was the topper of his MPhil program.

In July 1989, Dr. Mate experienced a profound dream that deeply influenced his life. While passing by a 30-story building in New York City, he dreamt of being addressed by none other than Albert Einstein. In the dream, Einstein blessed him and advised him to dedicate his life to Education, Science & Technology, Social Work, and Ornithology. Though Dr. Mate chose not to pursue ornithology due to a lack of expertise, he embraced the other areas wholeheartedly. For years, he kept this dream to himself, allowing its message to shape his endeavors.

Dr. Mate married Kimjalam in 2000 and has been blessed with five children. His journey toward national and international recognition began in 1997 when he received the Bharat Excellence Award in New Delhi after publishing three books — a project that took 15 years to complete. This marked the beginning of his dream becoming a reality.

After serving as a Junior Scientist at ISRO, New Delhi, for eight years, Dr. Mate left his position to fulfill his vision. In 2002, he founded the Dr. S. Radhakrishnan Foundation School in Tuibuang Village, Churachandpur district, Manipur. The school’s mission is to uplift and educate underprivileged children, and it currently sponsors 35 orphans. Dr. Mate’s dedication to shaping the lives of young people has made him a well-known and highly respected figure.

In recognition of his extraordinary accomplishments across various fields, Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of the Kuki people in Northeast India, honored him with the Top Award Winner title during an assembly held in Kuki Inpi, Imphal, on Friday.

Despite being twice nominated for the Padma Shri award, Dr. Mate has not yet received it. Speaking on this, he remarked, “I am not happy with the Manipur government. The government has ignored my name, which has been nominated twice for Padma Shri. But I am not demanding it.”

Dr. Mate’s legacy continues to inspire many, as his life exemplifies the power of perseverance, vision, and dedication to the betterment of society.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

(Texts & Photos) 

Special Correspondent 

THE MIZORAM POST |  MANIPUR CHRONICLE |  ZOGAM TODAY

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 HH Mate in award 100 sa'ng ta | Zogam Today

HH Mate in award 100 sa'ng ta

New Delhi, Dec 12, 2013 – Tuni nitah nai 2:00 in Constitution Club, New Delhi ah Dr H. Hemkholun Mate aka H H Mate in award 4 sa'ng. Award 100 a dawnna hita hi. 

Indian Soceity for Industry & Intellectual Development, New Delhi leh Economic Growth Society of India te saina nuai ah, tuni’a National Seminar on Oustanding Contribution for National Progress & World Peace kineina hun ah award 4 - Rashtirya Shiksha Shree Award; Rashtirya Vikas Shiromani Award; Janseva Sadbhavana Award leh National Corporate Leadership Award sa’ng hi.

Dr Mate ahileh nih vei zen Padma Shree Award a ding in a min nominate (teel) in um a, hinanleh Manipur solkal in a min Padma Shree Award lah ah telsahlou, kithangsiatna sa’ng mama ahidan jong Zogam Today hil hi.

Agenbehna ah award 100 a dawnna tung ah KSO leh Kuki Inpi te'n thupitah in a lawpna leh pahtawina bawlsah ding uh ahidan zong gen hi.

Nov 18, 2013 ni'n Dubai ah Asia Pacific Global Award, Global Corperate Leadership Award, International Gold Star Award leh International Status Award for Asia Education Excellence sang hi.

Ei North East gam hileh India sung pumpi ah tambang a Award 100 mu kivang mama hi’n kigen hi.

Dr Mate in tulel in Principal cum Director, Dr S. Radhakrishnan Foundation School, Tuibuang hina tu hi. 

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal, Joint Editor, ZOGAM TODAY

 

Minor girl gang-raped in Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 11, 2013 [IANS] --- A 16-year-old girl was gang-raped in a parking area in central Delhi, a police official said Wednesday.

Passersby found the teenager in an unconscious state in the parking area of Scindia House Dec 8 and informed police.

"She was then taken to the nearby hospital. After undergoing treatment she said that she was kidnapped and brought to the parking space where four men raped her," said the police official.

The minor girl is from Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh.

SC says homosexuality an offence, activists dejected

New Delhi, Dec 11 (IANS) The Supreme Court Wednesday held consensual sex between adults of the same gender an offence, leaving the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community dejected.

Setting aside the Delhi High Court verdict of 2009, the apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice S.J. Mukhopadhayay said there was no constitutional room for change in Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code.

Section 377 of the IPC holds that same-gender sexual relationship is against the order of the nature and is an offence. The apex couyrt by its ruling Wednesday upheld the constitutional validity of the section.

The Delhi High Court by its verdict, which the apex court has now set aside, had decriminalised the sexual relationship between consenting adults of the same gender under Section 377.

Law Minister Kapil Sibal told reporters outside parliament: "It is the prerogative of the Supreme Court to judge the constitutionality and validity of the law. The opinion of the Supreme Court must be respected by the government. They have exercised their prerogative, we shall exercise ours."

Gay activist Ashok Row Kavi said that with this verdict, "we are back to square one".

"But we will fight for our rights. It is essential to note that this has nothing to do with morality and religion."

"We are just asking for inclusive rights in the society. This is just a type of orientation a lot of people are involved in...," he added.

Restoring back Section 377 under the statute book, the Supreme Court, referring to the Attorney General, said that the government could, if it so desired, amend the law.

The apex court verdict upholding Section 377 came 21 months after it had reserved its verdict in March 2012.

Activist Sohini Ghosh described the judgment as "not just a betrayal to the LGBT community, but a betrayal to the values that are enshrined in the constitution".

"...The only thing that I want to say is that fight will go on, and we will fight till the bitter end," she said.

Pallav Patankar from the Humsafar Trust feels that the verdict is a big blow to the community.

"The Supreme Court has put the decision back to parliament, and the reason it went to the SC was because parliament refused to discuss issues related to alternate sexuality. There is a need to address the issue...," he said.

UNC calls 48-hr general strike in Naga areas of Manipur

Imphal, Dec.11, 2013[TOI] --- Hill-based United Naga Council (UNC) has called a 48-hour 'general strike' in Naga-settled areas of Manipur from midnight tonight for formation of a separate administrative unit, UNC sources said. 

Official sources said the 48-hour general strike was likely to affect the movement of essential items-laden trucks from outside the state as both the national highways (Imphal-Jiribam-Silchar and Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati) pass through Naga-settled Tamenglong and Senapati districts. 

The sources said additional forces would be deployed along the highways to enable the trucks pass through the highways smoothly. 

The strike was also likely to impact the yearly 'Orange Festival' at None in Tamenglong on December 14 causing disappointment to hundreds of farmers who would not be able to sell their fruits. 

UNC sources said they would impose a 'ban very soon' on the construction of all national projects being implemented in the Naga-setted areas of the state. 

Official sources said representatives of UNC, central and state governments had earlier held tripartite talks on the demand of the UNC but no solution could be arrived at because the Naga body 'almost wanted to break up' the territority of the state to have 'an alternative arrangement' (separate administrative unit for the Nagas).

Tribal workers in Bengal’s Tea estates echo miserable tales

JALPAIGURI, DEC 10, 2013 --- More than 85% of the tea plantation workers in West Bengal are tribals, with the majority of the rest being Dalits. Despite facing severe hardships, they have struggled to gain attention from either the estate owners or the state government. Around 3,000 tribals and Dalits are employed at the Patkapara Tea Estate in Jalpaiguri district, with each tea estate employing nearly 3,000 laborers.

“There are around 532 tea gardens in Jalpaiguri, registered under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, where approximately 2.43 lakh laborers are on the regular payroll, while around 1.61 lakh work as casual laborers. Most of them belong to Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes,” said Anirban Banerjee, a PhD scholar in Anthropology from the University of Hyderabad, currently researching plantation workers in Darjeeling district.

These plantation laborers have lived in the gardens for 3-4 generations, yet they continue to face livelihood insecurity. They reside in shelters or staff quarters provided by the management but do not own land for agriculture or any other source of income besides working as plantation laborers, where they endure exploitation.

“More than 80% of the workers are women, but their rights remain largely ignored. Local media reports reveal that about 245 women and 300 girls have gone missing in the last 2-3 years from the tea gardens in Madarihat, Kalchini, Alipurduar, and Nagrakata in Jalpaiguri district,” Banerjee told our bureau.

“This issue is not limited to Birpara. Several unspecified diseases—causing total body collapse and organ malfunctioning among men and women aged 28-45—have been reported in tea gardens near Kalchini, Kumargarm, and Alipurduar,” some workers said.

“We are supposed to receive Rs 130 per day as wages, but in reality, we are only given Rs 66 to 96. How can we manage our daily expenses for food, clothing, healthcare, and our children’s education?” said Ram Kumar Lama, a former Zila Parishad member and local social activist who has worked in tea estates for over two decades. “Our main demand is to abolish the fixed rate of Rs 96 per day and introduce a minimum wage of Rs 250 per day,” he added.

In October, laborers faced issues with overdue salaries. Even after negotiations, the company continued to give them only a 17% bonus instead of the promised 20%. Their staff quarters remain in a dilapidated state, with most repairs carried out using their own hard-earned money.

“We haven’t received rations for the past few weeks. Our payments are irregular, forcing many of us to leave the state. My husband recently moved to Kerala in search of work, so I am working here in his place. There is no fixed payment for overtime. Only if we collect more than 35 kg of tea leaves do we get any extra payment,” said a 32-year-old worker from Patkapara Tea Garden, who wished to remain anonymous. “Most of us don’t own land. As long as we work here, we will continue to be exploited. But we have no choice—there is no escape. We are helpless, and no one listens to us.”

Twelve women and eight men interviewed by our bureau requested anonymity for fear of losing their jobs. These workers shared numerous distressing experiences. If they pluck less than 22 kg of tea leaves in a day, the company deducts Rupee 1 per kg as a penalty.

~ OUR BUREAU | Bruce K. Thangkhal