Manipur Gas News

Gas News Today
Date 26-09-18

#Khongnang Gas, Bisnupur
Booking : 18/07/18
Valid : 17/07/18
Sl. No. 8189
Stk : 306
Time : 07.30 to 10.30 a.m

#Leibaklei Gas Kakching
Booking : 18/06/18
Valid : 10/06/18
Stk : 612
Time : 07.30 to 11.00 a.m

#Kanchi Indane Service
Booking : 20/07/18
Valid : 12/07/18
Stk : 306/5kg Available
Rate : Rs. 938/-
Time : 08.00 to 10.00 a.m

#Maibia Gas Moirang
Booking : 04/07/18
Valid : 02/07/18
Sl. No. 6001 upto 6570
Stk : 306
Time : 07.00 to 11.00 a.m

#Yairipok Gas
Booking : 26/07/18
Valid : 24/07/18
Stk : 306
Time : 07.00 to 10.00 a.m

#G B D Gas, Lamlong
Booking : 26/06/18
Valid : 19/06/18
Stk : 306 CTC
Time : 07.00 to 10.30 a.m

#Misao Gas Service
Booking : 12/07/18
Valid : 27/06/18
Stk : 306
Time : 07.30 to 10.00 a.m

#Lamsang Gas
Booking : 09/07/18
Valid : 04/07/18
Stk : 306
Time : 07.00 to 10.00 a.m

#Sawombung Indane
Booking : 03/07/18
Valid : 01/07/18
Stk : 306
Time : 07.30 to 10.00 a.m

#Khumbong Indane
Booking : 04/08/18
Valid : 01/08/18
Stk : 306
Time : 07.30 to 10.30 a.m

#Heirok Gas
Booking : 14/07/18
Valid : 23/06/18
Stk : 306
Time : 07.30 to 10.30 a.m

#Manipur Gas
Booking : 12/06/18
Valid : 10/06/18
Stk : 306
Time : 07.30 to 09.30 a.m

City police constable shoots mother-in-law

In a bizarre incident a police constable posted at City Police shot at his mother-in-law with a double barrel rifle today evening at Naharup Mayai Leikai, Imphal East district.

The woman is identified as one Pebam (O) Takhellei, 65, wife of Pebam Robindro of Naharup Mayai Leikai. She suffered bullet injury at her right arm and upper abdomen and currently admitted at the ICU of Advance hospital, Imphal.

Speaking to the media at the hospital, a family member of Takhellei said in the evening at around 4 pm, Ranbir came to their residence and shot the former without any warning at the courtyard and fled from the scene.

It is said that Takhellei’s son-in-law, Irom Ranbir, 35, son of I. Manglem of Kongpal Khongkham Leikai and her daughter Irom (O) Sonia alias Pepe got separated after a family clash about 4 months back.

According to family member of Takhellei Ranbir called over the phone today morning and asked to send Sonia back immediately. During the telephonic conversation they had some heated exchange of words, added the family member.

The family member also maintained that Ranbir and Sonia had frequent quarrels before they got separated.

The Police are on a look out for Ranbir to arrest him and to take further necessary action in connection with the incident.

Source Imphal Free Press

Rohingya Muslims trafficker arrested

 At around 5 am of September 19, a team of Tengnoupal district police led by additional SP, Tengnoupal, Kh. Robinson arrested a mastermind involved in the trafficking of Rohingya Muslims along with his wife from YairipokNingthounaiSabalLeikai.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Md. Rashid Ali alias Nasir Ali, 51, son of Md. Jamaruddin originally from Uttar Pradesh and at present residing at Yairipok, Ningthounai Sabal Leikai and Khulakpam Tahir Begum, wife of Rashid Ali. They have been absconding since May 1.

Rashid Ali and his wife were arrested in connection with the FIR No. 34(5)2018 MRH/PS U/S 370/465/468/471 IPC and 14 Foreigner's Act. They were involved in the trafficking of four Rohingya Muslims including a woman in connection with the aforesaid FIR through one TakhellambamGobin Singh who was arrested on January 5, in connection with the particular case. Gobin, in his earlier statement, disclosed that as instructed by the couple, he had transported Rohingya Muslims five to six times to Moreh.

Two mobile phones, one PAN card in the name of Md. Rashid Ali, one election ID card in the name of Md. Rashid Ali, one Aadhaar card in the name of Md. Rashid Ali and one ATM VISA card of Syndicate Bank were seized from the possession of Rashid Ali.

Source Imphal Free Press

DAT celebrates completion of three yearsof successful local self-government

Democratic Alliance of Tamenglong (DAT) today celebrated its successful completion of three years of local self-government of Autonomous District Council Tamenglong at its council complex.

One minute silent prayer was observed for the departed soul of one member who passed away and it was blessed by general secretary of Zeliangrong Baptist Churches Council of Northeast India.

Chairman of Democratic Alliance of Tamenglong, Namsinrei Panmei assured the gathering that DAT of Autonomous District Council Tamenglong will work for the welfare of the people. The local government will stand for the truth, for the people, Naga issue and others, he added.

He continuedthat doors of DAT are always open for the opposition party and people who are willing to work for the welfare of the people.

“We are not against the BJP or any individual, but fight against the state government to do what is right and what is in the ADC act,” said Namsinrei.

He also mentioned that about the confidence motion for removal of ADC chairman on January 15 though both the parties have equal members. In a year there should be only one confidence motion but the opposition demandedthe first floor test as null and void and by force a floor test was held again on May 25. However, the High Court ceased the proceedings and kept sealed, he informed the gathering.

Executive member of ADC Tamenglong, SG Pammei cleared the air of confusion that DAT is NPF government. He said DAT is a combination of NPF, BJP and Independent.

He also urged the people to pray and continue to give support to the future government.

Former MLA and vice-chairman of Hill Area Committee, Khangthuanang Panmei also spoke on the occasion and narrated that how the council was restored. He regretted that one half year has gone in the court with less development. There is an ‘Act’ of district council that confidence motion cannot be done more than once in a year, he added.

He further stated that there are too many bandhs in the state and the common public are the only ones who suffer.

Zeliangrong Union Chairman Tamenglong zone urged all to forgive and forget the pass and bring negotiation. He also appealed all staffs of district council to work sincerely and transparently in the office.

Town Centre Church pastor, Guiphanang Panmei shared a Gospel sharing and special prayer was held for elected members.

The celebration was also attended by ADC members including Ramningle Pame, Liangpibou, Pouhotlung Panmei, Sanjeutuing, SG Pammei, N. Wipongbou, L. Lungin Gangte, Micah Panmei, public leaders, religious .

Source Imphal Free Press.

ADC Sadar Hills chairman inaugurates various development projects in Keithelmanbi DCC

ADC Sadar Hills Chairman, Haokholal Hangshing naugurates Keithelmanbi VA Court

Chairman of Sadar Hills Autonomous District Council, Kangpokpi, Haokholal Hangshing inaugurated several development projects today, constructed under 14th Finance Commission at Keithelmanbi District Council Constituency.

Haokholal inaugurated the additional classrooms constructed by member of ADC Sadar Hills, Lamminthang Kipgen, in the presence of the local MDC, village authority chairman, local church pastor, and teaching and non-teaching staffs of Keithelmanbi Junior High School.

The classrooms were dedicated by pastor of Keithelmanbi Baptist Church TBA, Rev. Thangkai Sitlhou.

The inaugural ceremony held at the school was attended by Haokholal as chief guest and reverend Thangkai as minister while chairman of Keithelmanbi Village Authority, DehlamLhouvum was the functional president. The guest of honour was local MDC, Lamminthang Kipgen.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Haokholal said, “Keithelmanbi Junior High School was on the verge of defunct but I am very much happy to witness that the school has revived with the enthusiastic and generous contribution on the part of the local MDC and the school headmaster.”

He also said that teaching methods and curriculum activities have already changed and in order to cope up with the changes, teachers are trained so as to adapt with new methods.

He further exhorted the teaching staffs of the school to enthusiastically play a key role in bringing out the inner quality of the students.

The ADC Sadar Hills chairman accompanied by the local MDC also inspected Inter Village Road at Keithelmanbi Ward no. 3 and 9. They also inspected the waiting shed constructed under 14th Finance Commission.

Later, the team also inaugurated Keithelmanbi Village Authority Court building located near Keithelmanbi playground in the presence of representatives of Keithelmanbi Women Association and Keithelmanbi Youth Association apart from other village elders and church leaders.

Pastor of KCBC, Lamkhoseh Chongloi dedicated the village authority court before ADC Sadar Hills chairman and unbolted the door today.

A grand feast marked the occasion.

Source Imphal Free Press.

Charge of MU vice-chancellor given to pro VC

The ministry of Human Resource Development, department of Higher Education has notified to Manipur University registrar (in-charge), M. Shyamkesho Singh that the pro vice-chancellor of the Manipur University will hold the charge of the office of the vice-chancellor of the university until further order.

It was signed by the under secretary to the government of India, Vijay Kumar in continuation of the ministry’s order no. 33-6/2018-CU.IV dated September 17 as per the provisions of statute 2(6) of the Manipur University Act, 2005.

Yet in another notification of handing over of charge dated September 18, signed by Adya Prasad Pandey who was suspended from the post of vice-chancellor of the Manipur University on September 17, by the President of India, said that he has handed over the charge of vice-chancellor of the university to pro vice-chancellor, Y. Yugindro Singh.

Source Imphal Free Press

Visually impaired Premjit paves way in voluntary blood donation.

 “My abiding spirit of serving the society with the best of my capacity, keeping aside my hardship of being a differently abled person, enables me to take part in voluntary blood donation since my 18 year of age.”

This was stated by Khundrakpam Premjit, in a chat with the IFP, who had lost his vision when he was just 10 years old, but spirited enough to donate blood 58 times.

A trustee of Life Saver Manipur, Premjit, 37, son of Kh. Binoy and Kh (o) Radhe, of Lamdeng Makha Leikai Imphal, recalled that for the first time he donated blood in 1999 and during that time he doesn’t know anything about the advantages of blood donation except saving someone’s life.

But later he came to know that donation of blood regularly gives lots of health benefit to donors such as it controls heart disease, controls cholesterol level, removes excess iron and so on.

Recalling the circumstances that made him to become a regular blood donor, he said, “A report in one of local dailies about insufficiency of blood at RIMS pinched my heart thinking about the problems the people in need of blood must have faced.”

He continued, “From that day onwards there was no turning back. I along with my other eight friends who all are physically challenged like me started donating blood and took out campaign in various part of the state as well.”

While appealing people of the state who are physically fit to donate blood, he said that through this noble deed we can save many lives and it is the easiest way to give joy to people who are in distress.

Head of department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion Medicine RIMS, A. Barinder Sharma said that despite increase in the number of voluntary blood donors in the state, the demand are unable to meet. So far only 40 percent of demand is being supplied from blood bank, he pointed out.

He further said that the only means to meet the demand of blood is to increase the number of voluntary blood donors as the blood donated from them is free from risks.

When asked about the step taken up my RIMS to increase the number of voluntary blood donor, he said creating mass awareness about the importance of blood donation is the only means to increase the voluntary blood donor and the institute is doing very well in this aspect.

He informed that during April 2015- March 2016, the institute had conducted 35 camps in associations with various organisations and received 4779 units including family donor of the ailing patient, from April 2016- March 2017, 42 camps were held and received 5456 units of blood including family donor of the ailing patient.

Again during April 2017- March 2018, the total number of blood collected from 52 voluntary blood donation campaign organised by institute in collaboration with various associations was 3178 unit (this unit doesn’t not include family donor). For the period of April 2018- March 2019, 43 campaigns has already completed and collected 1115 unit blood excluding family donor, he added.

He expressed that this clearly shows that the objective of conducting campaign is being fulfilled to some extend but we could not achieved the target of 100 percent supply of blood from blood bank. Therefore we have to focus more in spreading awareness about necessity of blood donation, he added.

Due to lack of proper transportation and technical problem, blood donation campaign could not be reached to far flung areas of hilly districts, he lamented.

Appealing people of the state to extend helping hand to people who are in dire need of blood, he said that there is no substitute for human blood.

Further he maintained that blood cannot be manufactured in any laboratory. Regular blood donation by a large section of society is insurance for all, he added.

Source Imphal Free Press

Anglo-Kuki War Centenary Commemoration to be held at Churachandpur

The chairman of the Anglo-Kuki War Centenary Commemoration Committee, Khaimang Chongloi and his team announced in a press conference today that the Anglo-Kuki War Centenary Commemoration 2018 will be held at Kuki Inpi Churachandpur (KIC) complex on October 17.

Khaimang said the commemoration will be held in Churachandpur district for the first time, for which a district level sub-committee has also been set up with LetzamangHaokip and Seiboi as convenor and co-convenor respectively.

"The Anglo-Kuki War was fought to unify all Kukis and to get independence from others. All must come to the centenary commemoration day," said Khaimang. Last year it was held at Lonpi village of Chandel district, he added.

Source Imphal Free Press

Five accused in Thaoroijam killing remanded to judicial custody

The five individuals who were arrested in connection with the mob lynching at Thaoroijam of one Md. Farooque Khan, 26, of Lilong Haoreibi were remanded to judicial custody for 15 days by the court of chief judicial magistrate, Imphal West today.

The five accused persons are identified as M. Girani Singh, 50, son of (late) M. Gopal of Thaoroijam Mamang Leikai, Ch. Subaschandra Singh, 45, son of (late) Jugeshor of Thaoroijam Maning Leikai, Phamdom Shamu Singh, 51, son of Ph. Ibopishak of Thaoroijam Awang Leikai, Ksh. Naoba Singh, 23, son of Ksh. Inaocha of Tharoijam Awang Leikai and Ch. Ibomcha Singh, 35, son of Ch. Jugeshor of Thaoroijam Maning Leikai.

They were produced before the court by the investigation officer (IO) of the case with a prayer to remand them to judicial custody for the smooth investigation of the case.

It may be recalled that Farooque was caught and beaten up by locals of Tharoijam in the early morning of September 13 for allegedly trying to steal a Honda Activa from the garage of the accused Girani.

Subsequently Farooque was evacuated to RIMS casualty for treatment but the medical officer declared that he was brought dead.

The IO of the case submitted that the video clipping of assaulting the deceased uploaded in the social media were seized in the form of CD and photographs by observing formalities.

By observing the video one stone suspected to be used by Girani and a bamboo stick suspected to be used by Subhaschandra while assaulting the deceased were recovered and the apparels of the two accused while committing the crime were also sized, added the IO.

It is reported that during further investigation the accused persons have admitted to have committed the said crime.

The IO further submitted that a few of the persons seen in the video uploaded in the social media and by the disclosure of the arrested accused persons are still at large and absconding from police arrest.

“A prima facie evidence is well established against the under noted accused persons, if they are given bail there is high chance that they will collude with the yet to be arrested involved persons to destroy evidence and will threaten the involved persons and their families which are yet to be arrested not to surrender before the authorities,” maintained the IO.

Further the IO continued that a good numbers of prosecution witnesses have been examined and accordingly statements are recorded which are corroborated with the case. For the remaining accused persons wanted in the case are under surveillance under private source so as to arrest them in quick time ahead, he added.

It may be mentioned that the Manipur Human Rights Commission has also taken up a suo-motto case in connection with the incident and the commission has directed the DGP Manipur to take enquiry in the matter and submit a report by September 22.

Source Imphal Free Press

ACOAM Lup decries NERAMEC’s move to register Chak-hao Poireiton

Expressing concern that the indigenous rice crop Chak-hao Poireiton might get fiddled into wrong hands, ACOAM Lup has drawn the attention of the state government to get Geographical Indication (GI) of it without any delay.

Vice president of ACOAM Lup, Sanjit Soraisam while speaking to the media at its Lamphelpat office today said Chak-hao poireiton is a rare indigenous product of the state. Once the Chak-hao Poreiton is cultivated outside the state its farmers’ effort of preserving and promoting the crop will go in vain, he said.

Sanjit further claimed that the North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Limited (NERAMEC) under the DoNER ministry is trying to register the indigenous crop.

“But the department concerned of the state government has been keeping mum in this regard. If the company registers the crop under its name the state farmers will face problem in the future when they want to cultivate it”, he said.

Sanjit appealed the state government to take up special measures to tackle the problems faced by the farmers. “By helping the farmers of the state can reduce the state can reduce the dependency of crops from outside the state”, he added.

Sanjit censured the state government for neglecting the plight of the farmers which has led to over-dependency of food crop from outside the state.

He went on to warn the state government of different forms of agitations if the latter fails to take notice of the demands.

Director of Phou-oibee organic producer company limited, Ahongsangbam Marjit Khuman who was also present in the media briefing came down heavily against the move of NERAMAC to register Chak-hao under its name. He urged the Agriculture department to take initiative to register Chak-hao Poireiton under the state’s name.

He also said the government should fix the minimum support price for the interest of the farmers at the earliest.He further questioned the credentials of the farmers who names are mentioned in the 3rd point in the regulation of GI.

“The four farmer groups from four districts of Manipur, Chingarel Organic Producer Company limited, Phou-oibee Organic Producer Company limited, Chak-hao Poireiton Organic Producer Company Limited and Apunba Organic Producer Company limited do not have any knowledge regarding the GI registration by NERAMAC”, he said, adding that without the knowledge of the farmers the company simply cannot add names.

Source Imphal Free Press

143 Bn CRPF launches cleanliness campaign

The 143 Battalion, CRPF, Lamphelpat launched a cleanliness campaign on September 19 under the lead of commandant, Lal Chand Yadav.

A release signed by commandant, 143 Battalion, CRPF stated that the cleanliness campaign is a part of the Swachta Hi Sewa (Cleanliness is Service) campaign which is being organised by the battalion from September 15 to October 2 is a precursor to mark the 150thbirth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The campaign is to accelerate the Jan Andolan for realising the vision of Clean India, reinforcing that ‘Sanitisation is every one’s business’, it added.

The campaign is held with the objective of mobilising and creating awareness on environmental cleanliness in the entire country as well as in Manipur towards the making of a ‘New India’, said the release.

Source Imphal Free Press

State cabinet approves introduction of anti-mob violence bill.

The state cabinet has decided to introduce the Manipur Mob Violence Control and Prohibition Bill in the State Legislative Assembly soon.

The decision was taken in a historic cabinet meeting held for the first time at Jiribam district headquarters today. It was the fifth cabinet meeting held outside the state capital.

Speaking to media persons after the meeting, works minister and government spokesperson, Th. Biswajit said that the rate of awarding instant punishment by mobs without any fair trial is increasing each day in the state. As such, the new bill would be introduced in the House to check such injustice, he added.

The minister said that the cabinet also decided to restart functioning of Jiri tea estate in PPP model through open tendering. The total area of the estate is 1100 acres, out of which 400 acres would be used in tea plantation, 600 acres in rubber plantation and 100 acres in coffee plantation, he added.

He further said that the cabinet also gave its nod to revive Manipur State Lottery as well. However, lotteries would be conducted outside the state, and no lottery ticket would be sold in Manipur, he said. The state is likely to earn Rs.50 crore to Rs.60 crore through this lottery every year, said the minister.

He further informed that the cabinet also fixed Rs.40 per square feet as land compensation for construction of Ukhrul-Toloi-Tadubi National Highway. He said that the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) would start construction of the road soon once the issue of land compensation is sorted out.

The cabinet also approved reimbursement amount of Rs.20,53,740 for 17 Manipur police, Manipur Rifles and IRB personnel who were given treatment at Shija Hospitals and Research Institute.

Source Imphal Free Press

Customs seizes WY tablets worth Rs. 3 crore

Thirty thousand WY (world is yours) tablets worth around Rs. 3 crore were seized from the procession of one individual today from Moreh petrol pump, Chikim Veng along the national high way-102.

The above drug was seized by a team of Custom Preventive Force, Moreh led by its superintendent after acting on a specific information about the smuggling of drugs in that area.

The arrested individual is identified as David Doungel, 32, son of Shigil Doungel of N. Chajing, Kangpokpi district.

Speaking to the media today at the Sangakpham office of the Custom Division, Imphal, assistant commissioner, R.K. Darendrajit said the seized contraband amphetamine tablets was of Myanmar origin and the said drug was intercepted today morning at around 10.30 while trying to transport to Imphal.

A case has been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 against the arrested person and further investigation is going on, he added.

Source Imphal Free Press

AR and Manipur Police recover IED planted by PLA

IED recovered by AR near Khangpat Khullen village

A combined team of Assam Rifles and Manipur police has prevented a major disaster in the state by recovering 3 kg Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) on the track connecting Kamjong to Skipe village near Khangpat Khullen village at around 5 pm today.

According to sources from Assam Rifles, the proscribed outfit PLA had allegedly planted a huge IED on a prominent route frequented by mostly Tangkhuls and Kukis of the bordering region of Kamjong district.

The proscribed organisation was trying to carry out some activity in the run up to September 25 that may keep them relevant, said the sources.

It further said that self-styled major, Humi of PLA, resident of village Khangpat, a supposedly IED expert was reportedly behind the plan.

Source Imphal Free Press

State government launches first helicopter service/LEAD

Manipur CM

Chief minister, N. Biren Singh has today launched the first helicopter service in the state between Imphal and Jiribam at Harinagar Helipad in Jiribam district.

The first flight of the seven seats capacity PawanHans helicopter carrying cabinet ministers of the state took off from Imphal International Airport at 9 am.

The Imphal-Jiribam-Imphal helicopter service will operate daily except Sunday and public holidays at the rate of Rs.3000 per head.

Biren Singh also flagged off second flight from Harinagar Helipad after inaugurating the helipad apart from laying foundation stone for construction of transit accommodation of doctors and teachers during his maiden visit to the district bordering Assam.

The chief minister went to Jiribam on Indian Air Force (IAF) to attend the inaugural of the chopper service and cabinet meeting. However, he had to return in one of the Heli Service due to technical glitch encountered with the IAF chopper.

“Jiribam has now become a prime area due to the presence of the state’s lone railhead. As such, the state Government would consider formulating a comprehensive plan for development of Jiribam in consultation with experts”, said the CM.

Stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had approved over Rs.25,000 crore for construction of roads in the state, Biren said that work order for the construction of Jiri-Tipaimukh road had been issued to National Highway Infrastructure Development Ltd. (NHIDL).

He further asserted that Imphal-Jiri road had already been revamped, and construction of Makru and Barak bridges was underway and that District Transport Office (DTO) would start functioning within two months.

“I fell very happy for the state government has launched helicopter service. Travelling along the National Highway 37 (Imphal-Jiribam) will become much easier setting aside the ticket rates. Earlier, we had to take a long nearly 6-hour journey and sometimes misses family emergencies. With the chopper service we comfortably to and fro in just 30 to 40 minutes”, said Th. Gagarin Singh, a lecturer in Jiribam Higher Secondary School. He hails from Top Awang Leikai Imphal East district and posted at Jiribam.

NH-37 is often considered often considered as one of the dangerous highways to travel in the state. Besides being landslides are very prone in the area, the highway is active with militant activities.

It is learnt that altogether 14 cases of abduction and shooting of people engaged in the railway project were reported during the last one year.

“The chopper service is the greatest gift for the Jiribam district. We cannot thank enough the state government for the initiative which would bring a sea change in the newly created district”, said N. Budhamani, sub-inspector of CID (special branch), Jiribam.

Apart from taking up necessary steps to start functioning of Jiri Tea Estate in PPP model, the CM also assured that the state government would also look into the feasibility of launching ‘Barak River Waterways’ project in consultation with the Assam government.

Assuring that people need not panic about police’s intensified identification verification drives at Jiribam, Biren said that there is no ban on entry of any person, who possesses valid documents, to Manipur. Identification checking is done in all the states and Manipur is no exception, he added.

The new government never differentiates people as minority or majority and rich or poor, Biren said while adding that all the people of the state should be able to live together without any discrimination.

Informing that construction of Transit Accommodation would begin from early part of October, the CM also said that the state government would also start construction of ‘Welcome to Manipur’ gate at Jiribam within two months.

Deputy chief minister, Y. Joykumar, ministers, Th. Biswajit, L. Jayantakumar, Karam Shyam, Letpao Haokip, N. Kayisii, L. Dikho, V. Hangkhanlian, Nemcha Kipgen and Th. Radheshyam, Manipur Legislative Assembly deputy speaker, K. Robindro, MLAs, Th. Satryabrata, H. Dingo, Ashab Uddin, chief secretary, Suresh Babu, DGP, L.M. Khaute and other high ranking officials of the state government were also present at the occasion.

Source Imphal Free Press

Rally held demanding punishment to murderers of Neiphretuo

Tangkhul CSO Rally for befitting punishment

The Tangkhul Civil Society organised a rally demanding befitting punishment of the accused in the murder of Neiphretuo Metsie-o.

Thousands of people from Ukhrul district attended the rally which started from two points, Dungrei Junction and Kharasom Junction and converged at TNL Ground. Some of the placards carried by the participants of the rally read ‘Punish The Murderers By The Law of The Land’, ‘Murder in cold blood is foreign to our culture, punish them’, ‘May the Almighty God comfort the bereaved family’ and others.

A declaration was made in the gathering stating that, “in the unfortunate demise of Neiphretuo Metsie-o of Chiechama Village, Nagaland who was barbarously murdered on September 7, we come together to stand as one with his family, his village and the rest of all the Naga Tribes at this hour of darkest trial.”

“We condemn such bestial act committed by Yuireingam R Shimray of Kharasom village and his accomplice, LW Rinthingchon of Lunghar village as a crime against humanity. Today, we hang our heads in shame and humility that such a heinous crime is being committed by a member of our community which we abhor in the strongest term,” it added.

“We believe and appeal that such irresponsible despicable and brutal incident may not cast a negative aspersion to the whole community as such, as we believe in the rational and mature wisdom of our Naga brethren,” it further stated.

“We invoke the spirit of our Almighty God, Lord Jesus to sustain and comfort the bereaved family,” it added.

The declaration was jointly signed on behalf of the gathering by vice-president of TNL, P. Peimi, president of TSL (Women’s League), Grace Shatsang, president of TNWL (Village Chief Association), AS Vaomi, president of TKS (Student Union), AS Rangam and president of TMNL (Youth Council), LM. Thanmi.

Source Imphal Free Press

Kuki movement for self-determination is none of UNC’s businesses: KIC

Condemning the press statement issued by the United Naga Council (UNC) in the wake of Kuki Sahnit observation as unfortunate, Kuki Inpi Churachandpur (KIC) has reiterated its stand that the Kuki Black Day will continue to be observed until “Justice is delivered to the victims of the NSCN-IM/UNC orchestrated Kuki Genocide, 1992-1997.”

A release issued by information and publicity department, KIC alleged that it was the UNC and their masked- Naga Lim Guard (NLG) acting as the puppets of the top Tangkhul leaders of NSCN-IM, who had served ‘Quit Notices’ to the unwary Kuki villages of Tamenglong, Ukhrul, Senapati and Chandel districts in late 1992. Stating that the copies of the Quit Notices can be availed at the request of the UNC, the release also derided the council for “Having the audacity to warn of dire consequences as then.”

The massacre of Zoupi villagers on September 13, 1993 happened despite the helpless villagers heeding the quit notice to vacate their village by September 15, 1993, it asserted.

KIC further expressed regret that the latest UNC press statement is reminiscent of the quit notices served 25 years ago. And in light of the situation and as a preventive measure, the apex body of Kuki Tribes also stated its desire for the state government or the National Investigative Agency (MIA) to immediately arrest the UNC leaders.

The release further called for the arrest and legal trials of the chief conspirators of the Joupi massacre and the Kuki Genocide including Th. Muivah, RK Thekko and Francis Ngajokpa for their crimes against humanity and acts of murder.

KIC also declared that that the “Kuki movement for self-determination, whether within Myanmar or India is none of UNC’s business, and the Kuki people will decide what to do where and when.” UNC and its puppeteer, the Tangkhul top leaders of NSCN-IM may do well not to interfere in Kuki affairs nor covet Kuki ancestral lands, it added.

Source Imphal Free Press

HC halts petition filed by Pandey as similar petition is pending before Supreme Court

The division bench of High Court comprising of chief justice, Ramalingam Sudhakar and justice, Kh. Nobin has halted the hearing of the petition filed by Manipur University vice-chancellor, Adya Prasad Pandey.

As a similar case is still pending before the Supreme Court, the high court cannot proceed for further hearing of the case without knowing the directives of the apex court.

According to source, the hearing of the case is likely to be fixed on September 28.

On September 4, Pandey filed a writ petition before the high court challenging the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed between the varsity community, state government and the Centre on August 16 to probe into the allegations made agains

t him by the varsity community.

The petition filed before had stated that the MoA cannot be accepted because it was signed following pressure of the varsity community and moreover official representative of the Manipur University is not a party in the signing of the agreement. It also mentioned that the chairman of the reconstituted two member inquiry committee is a close relative of a spokesperson of MUTA and hence it is likely to have bias in the inquiry report.

Later on September 10, Pandey filed a special leave petition before the Supreme Court and as per the information uploaded in the Supreme Court website and tentatively case is likely to be listed on September 24.

The respondents of the case filed before the Supreme Court are, joint secretary of HRD ministry representing the Union of India, professor of physics department, MU, Dorendrajit Singh, registrar (in-charge) of MU representing the Manipur University and state chief secretary representing the state government.

The counsel of the petitioner is advocate, Kamakshi S. Mehlwal and the counsel of the respondents is Leishangthem Roshmani.

Source Imphal Free Press

Court convicts Khulem Jiten for murdering his uncle

Session judge, Imphal West today convicted 41 years old, Khulem Jiten under section 302, 307 IPC and 27 Arms Act for murdering his own uncle, Khulem Krishnamohan and attempting to murder another uncle in the evening of June 30, 2015 using his license revolver.

According to the judgment order passed by the court, it stated that the case was set in motion on a written complaint lodged by one of the family members of the deceased to police about the incident on June 30, 2013.

Based on the complaint, a case was registered by Lamphel Police under section 307/326 and 27 Arms Act for investigation against Jiten.

On February 1, 2016, a charge was framed against the convict under section 302/ 307 IPC and 27 Arms Act and the convict on being asked on that day pleaded not guilty and claimed for trial.

While Jiten was produced before the court, state police took up extra precautionary measure to refrain from any unwanted incident which might have taken place.

During the trial of the case, Jiten was on bail until police arrested him for allegedly killing another uncle, Khulem Tomba, who is one of the prosecution witnesses of the trial case against him on July 27, for not allowing him to enter and stay at his residence.

The court has fixed September 20 for announcing the quantum of punishment to be given against the convict.

Source Imphal Free Press

Loktak Lake is cradle of Manipur’s culture: Asnikumar

Dignitaries during the inaugural function of Loktak Lake Landscape Theatre Performance at Takmu

Loktak Lake is the cradle of culture of Manipur, said Asnikumar at the inaugural function of Loktak Lake Landscape Theatre Performance, organised at Takmu, yesterday.

The theme of the function was ‘Meet the Real Site and Fictional Space’ and it was held at Takmu Lake View side, Sendra, Thanga.

Attending the function as chief guest, state vice-president BJP Manipur Pradesh and environmentalist, Asnikumar said he is a son of the soil and he will sacrifice his life to save the Loktak Lake and Sangai.

He said that Loktak Lake and the civilisation of Manipur are very closely related and without the lake, the significant history of the state will be missing. Loktak Lake landscape theatre has to be brought up to international standards and the lake plays a pivotal role in the social and economic lives of many individuals in the state, he added.

The support of all is much needed for the cause of saving the lake, he said.

He continued that fishing women folks (Enchingbi) play a very unique role in the history of the lake and bring out the human, emotional side of the lake which is often ignored. Numerous talented young individuals living in the vicinity of the lake are jobless and living with a bleak future, even though many of them have educational qualifications, he added.

Asnikumar said that it is a prerequisite condition to uplift them through provision of economic avenues which are related to the lake, especially in the field of tourism and fisheries.

He also appealed to refrain from bringing politics into the issue of saving the lake from further degradation.

In the state tourism, theatre, art and culture cannot be separated and the Loktak Lake is the binding force of all these components. The development of the Loktak Lake performance theatre is a huge step towards showcasing the whole beauty of Manipur in a simple way, said Asnikumar.

He further said, “It is high time that a holistic approach is adopted to save the dying lake and it is up to the people of the state to decide how we want the legacy of the lake to be defined.”

“We can either let it fade into oblivion or we can all work hand in hand to bring back the lake to its past glory,” added Asnikumar.

Ima market, a daily dose of life for many women

Pramo Devi

If one visits Ima Keithel, a different atmosphere carrying a peculiar scent can be felt upon stepping inside the market. A commercial hub of over 4000 women vendors, selling everything from kitchen items, handicrafts and modern clothing to vegetables and even new notes.

It will be wrong to assume it as an ordinary market. The mothers here also take an active part and contribute in different issues of the state.

The market is a part of life for many women whose daily dose of life remains incomplete without spending a day here.

The Ima Keithel is also a unique symbol of Manipur history and a symbol of gender justice. It is arguably the only marketplace in the entire world exclusively for women and no men are barred from selling goods in the surrounding of the marketplace.

Every vendor has a different story here and not all of them are daily bread earners but there are also many who come here not just to earn but to spend a quality time with fellow vendors and share their sorrow and happiness and even to discuss the burning topics of the state.

“I feel restless and sad if I could not come to the market, coming to the market makes me forget different problems,” said Pramo, 53, of Mayang Imphal who has been selling fish for decades thereby supporting her family with a daily profit she gains from selling the fish.

She does not eat with her family in the morning and she wake up early, collect fishes from Samurou and Pishum and would start selling them in the market from 6 in the morning to 7 at night.

And at times when her children were still young, she raised them up in the market while selling the fishes.

Pramo said she received a profit of 400 to 1000 rupees in a day and at times, when the sale is not going smooth, she would sell the dead fishes to the nearby food stall owners at a lower price.

When there are fewer customers, Pramo would also earn extra income by making plastic hand bags.

Pramo learned the technique of making the bags during the protest for reconstruction of the market 10 years ago when the mothers spend their night in the market to protect it.

She did not take any formal training but learned the technique by seeing others doing it. She bought the materials with 40 per kg and re-sell the completed bag in the market itself at the rate of 200 to 400 rupees but she does not have the intention of expanding her business through it, said Pramo.

Pramo has influenced other women in the market and now there are a number of them earning through it too.

While speaking about the frequent bandhs and the price hike in the essential commodities, Pramo said that she is against the bandh culture even for petty issues in the state and said the public, the bandh supporters are the only one who suffers while the leaders and the government settle the issues in a closed room.

She also added that the poorer sections are suffering because of the price hike. The government is digging money from the public rather than helping.

Pramo further said the representative of the people should remember the promises they made at the time of election and work for the welfare of the public rather than building huge buildings of their own.

Pramo also questioned why tobacco products and alcohols are banned rather than stopping them from the source. She said the ban is only increasing the price rather than stopping them.

Being a fish seller, she also questioned how the fish will be wrapped if the government bans plastics bags.

“Many youngsters are neglecting the culture and traditions, be it in dress or manners. Therefore many youths, especially the women, are facing different problems today and with the present trend of modernization, there is a high chance of losing our culture,” said Pramo.

She also said that the introduction of mobile phones and social media has lessened the bond in the family because youths prefer to spend time alone with their mobile rather than the family.

Source Imphal Free Press