Imphal, March 06, 2010: First border liaison officers' meeting between India and Myanmar on bilateral cooperation to check cross border crimes and other issues was held at Tamu, Myanmar yesterday. The Indian delegate led by Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Naveen Verma also included State Home Commissioner V Vumlumang. The Myanmarese delegate was led by Deputy Director General Oo Khin Muang Thin. The meeting was held after Home Secretary GK Pillai's visit to Yangon recently. The meeting held at Tamu on transnational crime agreed on sharing information about criminal elements operating on either side of the international boundary.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: A Chinese made hand grenade was found near the bank of Imphal river just opposite to the community hall at Singjamei Leishangthem Leikai at around 12.30 pm today. The hand grenade has been retrieved by a team of Imphal West District Police Commandos.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: In response to the call of the Central Trade Unions for a Nation-wide protest against price rise and non-implementation of labour laws among other demands, a large number of labourers took a rally here today. The rally was flagged off Keishampat Lairembi ground. But as the rallyists reached Khoyathong, police stopped them from going ahead with firing of tear gas canisters and water cannon. Atleast two labourers who sustained injuries in the police action have been reportedly hospitalised.

Tamenglong, March 06, 2010: A co-ordination meeting of the officers held in the conference hall of the Old Secretariat with Chief Secretary DS Poonia in the chair today morning has discussed the issues related to the upcoming election to the Autonomous District Councils of the hill districts. Attended by Principal Secretary, Commissioners, Secretaries and DCs , the meeting also discussed implementation of various Centrally sponsored schemes in the State.

Lamka, March 06, 2010: The Evangelical Free Church of India, since Friday, celebrated the centenary year of Gospel making its debut in the district at Sielmat Higher Secondary campus with Dr Paul Roberts, the son of Watkin R Roberts � the first Christian missionary to enter the district and Rochunga Pudaite, the President of Bible for World gracing the event. The celebration that began last night also witnessed the dissemination of photocopies of the historic Biblical verse in Lushai (now Mizo) that invited Kamkholal Singson, Chief of Senvon village's query and consequently led to the entry of Gospel in southern Manipur. Sermons from the living souls of Christian pioneers in the district and exhibition on the advent of Christianity were the attractions today. A grand centenary feast was hosted later in the day with a dozen Mithun, a sizable number of red meat, pork and chicken. The EFCI, a Church groomed by a local successor of the first missionary, Rochunga Pudaite have 50,000 members and above as its members with an annual budget that often exceeds Rs 15 crores. The second biggest hospital in the district, Sielmat Christian Hospital is one striking venture of the EFCI in public domain. The Church has planned to institute a memorial Chapel for Roberts complete with a guest house at Senvon village this year. �We have acquired the previous property of Senvooun Chief Kamkholal which was now inhabited by four families for 3.8 lakhs to build the Chapel,� EFCI's President Rev J Huoplien Neitham said.

Tamenglong, March 06, 2010: A combined team of Imphal West police commandos and troops of 16 MLI arrested a KCP (MC) activist from HUDCO Gate, Khuman lampak at around 12.10 pm today. identifying the captive as Thingam Suraj Meitei alias Boy (25) s/o Th Sharatchandra Singh of Khurai Chaithabi Leirak, SSP (IW) L Kailun said Suraj was assigned to supply arms and ammunition to UG activists/groups for the last 2/3 years with his associate namely RK Tilli s/o RK Haimo of Khurai nandeibam Leikai under the instruction of Thingam Sharatchandra alias Sarat Singh (570 s/o (L) Th Hera Singh of Khurai Chaithabi Mayai leikai an active member of KCP (MC).

Lamka, March 06, 2010: One among the active pressure groups that consistently petitioned the State Government for an early MDC poll, Manipur Tribal Council (MTC) today raised their reservation on the attempts made by some tribal groups to disturb the already scheduled poll. MTC's General Secretary Pauzalal said, �People keen to disrupt the process (MDC poll) were up in arms. Their pretexts were concocted and the MTC considers them as anti-tribals.� The Government should stick to the announced poll programme and it is time for every tribal to be exultant and not fret over MDC poll he said, adding, �It is unfortunate that some people try to turn the success of MTC into nothing�.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has taken serious note of dereliction of duty on the part of some Booth Level Officers in the ongoing household survey for correction in the Photo Electoral Rolls. On the instruction of the Election Commission of India, the Booth Level Officers have been appointed to conduct household survey for necessary correction in the Photo Electoral Rolls with effect from March 2. These Booth Level Officers are supposed to visit each and every households for the purpose. But the CEO received report that some of the Booth Level Officers are abstaining from visiting the households individually and doing their work while sitting at a convenient place of the assigned locality. Taking serious note of the matter, the Joint Chief Electoral Officer today issued instructions to all concerned for paying special attention to the ongoing survey, stating that Electoral Registration Officers concerned would be held responsible in case of detecting any error in the revised Photo Electoral Rolls as a consequence of dereliction of duty.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The United Kuki Liberation Front (UKLF) has refuted any involvement in the matter of land compensation for Integrated Check Post (ICP) or abduction of any individuals. A press release issued by the outfit's publicity secretary JM Zou decried the allegation levelled against the UKLF by the Hill Tribal Council (HTC) Moreh in connection with the reported abduction of JAC-ICP chairman Semjathang Haokip and JAC-ICP secretary Ngamjathang Lhungdim. The outfit asserted that the allegation lacked any basis. It maintained that the protest rally at Moreh was taken out at the instigation of KNA to hoodwink the authority and the public when their misdeeds became exposed and chance of their calculated percentage deduction from ICP land compensation got jeopardised. The land owners/pattadars were intimidated and coerced by KNA and HTC. Alleging that the HTC is a frontal organisation of KNA in the guise of civil society, the UKLF accused the HTC of being involved in killing innocent Meiteis and other non-tribals. The antecedents of HTC and its nexus with KNA should be investigated thoroughly by the authority/Government for initiating necessary steps to ban such organisation. Saying that it took serious note of the false allegation, the UKLF asked the HTC to substantiate their allegation with evidence within two days or tender an unconditional apology.

Ukhrul, March 06, 2010: Manipur Naga Revolution Front (MNRF) has sacked NS Tuisem alias NS Kamo from the organization/group with effect from March 3. In a press release issued its Publicity and Information secretary the outfit stated that the action was initiated as per the resolution adopted by the higest level of MNRF. NS Tuisem alias NS Kamo s/o NS Loverson of Lungpha village was sacked for his unruly habits blended with abysmal nature who despite the repeated reprimand or rather admonish, remain adamant from his devilish motive by injecting scrimmage to the ethics and principles of MNRF. The organisation's loyalty and commitment towards the struggle for peaceful coexistence amongst all the varied communities, ethnic and organisations of the North east is a divine impulse and inspiration, the press release added.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The exact plan size of the State for the next fiscal 2010-11 would be finalised during a meeting between Chief Minister O Ibobi and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission Montek Singh Aluwahlia on March 17 at New Delhi. Ahead of finalising the plan size on March 17, State Government officials led by the Chief Secretary would hold working group discussion with officials of the Planning Commission on March 15 and 16 at New Delhi, conveyed an official source. A preparatory meeting for the scheduled working group discussion was held today with the Chief Secretary in the chair. Another preparatory meeting would be held on March 12. The State Government has already proposed a plan amount of Rs 3231.09 crores for the next fiscal. Notably, plan amount for the current fiscal was hiked to Rs 2038 crores from Rs 2000 crores fixed earlier.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: An accidental fire that broke out at about 5.30 pm today has consumed larger portions of Taibang Mapu Hotel located at Moreh Bazar Ward No 7, reports our correspondent. It is reported that the fire originated from a tea stall opened inside the hotel. The fire was put under control by timely action of fire tenders. In addition to Rs 20,000 in cash, goods and articles of estimated value Rs 1.5 lakh have been destroyed by the fire. Local people belonging to different communities also helped in dousing the fire.

Lamka, March 06, 2010: A pick-up truck ferrying passengers from Tuila village to Churachandpur district headquarters today met a deadly mishap at Mission compound killing one and injuring three others. The deceased has been identified as Semmang Haokip (40) of B Vengnom village. Two of the injured were admitted at the district hospital here but they were claimed to be out of danger. Ferrying five commuters including that of the driver with a load of charcoal and firewood the pick-up overturned while moving down a hill due to a technical snag on the vehicle break.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Troops of 31 AR of 26 Sector under HQ IG AR(South) nabbed three suspicious individuals at permanent check post, Gate No. 4, at Moreh around 1 am today. On detailed questioning, the individuals were found to be Myanmarese nationals, identified as Khaitenthang (15), son of Pakhu of New Nongket, district Tamu, Myanmar, Thangleen Boy (18 ), son of Lalkhub, Temao (36), son of Uten Chi, residents of Tamu, Mayanmar. The three arrested persons have been handed over to Immigration Office at Moreh today itself, a press release from the PRO, HQ IG AR (South) informed.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Unknown gunmen today shot dead a youth at Moirangkampu Sajeb under Lamlai police station of Imphal east district. Reports said that some unknown gunmen brought the youth there and abandoned after shooting to death today, at about 2.30 pm. Police retrieved the dead body later and transferred at RIMS morgue for official procedure. The slain youth could be one Md Tazauddin (35) son of Md Allimuddin of Keibung Wangma Taba of Thoubal district as written in an I-card found at the pocket of the shirt of the slain youth. He was killed by pumping three bullets, one each at the head, chest and belly.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: A KCP (MC) activist allegedly involved in the supply of arms and ammunitions to the underground outfits was apprehended by a combined team of Imphal west district police commandos and 16 Maratha Li, informed a statement of Senior SP, L Kailun today. The nabbed activist has been identified as Thingam Suraj @Boy (25), son of Th Sharatchandra of Khurai Chaithabi Leirak. He was nabbed from HUDCO gate, Khuman Lampak today at about 12.10 pm along with a .32 pistol loaded with two live rounds in the magazine. On spot verification police came to know that he was assigned to supply arms and ammunitions to the underground outfits for the last two to three years with his associate RK Tilli son of RK Haimo of Khurai Nandeibam Leikai under the instruction of Thingam Sharatchandra alias Sharat (57) of Khurai Chaithabi Mayai Leikai an active member of KCP(MC).

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Taibang Mapu hotel, located at Moreh bazar Ward No. 7 was burned this evening around 5.30 pm. The fire accidentally broke out from Irai Tea hotel attached to Taibang Mapu hotel. A major portion of the hotel building was destroyed in the fire. However, fire service team rushed in and doused the fire before it completely destroyed the whole building. A large number of people of all communities of Moreh together tried to extinghuish the fire. Rs 20,000 in cash and properties worth Rs 1.5 lakh were destroyed in the fire.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The first anniversary of the Rani Gaidinliu Tribal Cultural College, Chinikon village of Senapati district was held on February 28 last at the premises of the college. The foundation day celebration function was graced by general secretary of the Zeliangrong Cultural Council, R Chandra Haomei as chief guest and chairman of the managing committee of the Rani Gaidinliu Tribal Cultural College, Chingkhu Paomei presided over the function. President of Kabui Mother Association Manipur Kakomlunglu attended as guest of honour.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: A senior Cabinet Minister in the secular Progressive Front Government has claimed that after the ongoing Union Budget session is over O Ibobi Singh will no longer remain as the Chief Minister of manipur in addition to reshuffle in the Congress-led SPF ministry. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Cabinet Minister pointed out that as anti Defection law is in place neither the number game nor reshuffling the Ministry to avoid being removed from the post of Chief Minister would be able to prolong Ibobi's stint. Substantiating, the Minister recounted replacement of Rishang Keishing from the top post by (late) RK Jaichandra inspite of the latter commanding support of legislators at that time. As a tradition of the Congress party decisions taken by the central leaders are honoured in all respect, the senior Minister expressed while disclosing that the AICC is strongly in favour of appointing FCS Minister Y Irabot as the next Chief Minister of Manipur. Claiming that even in the Congress organisation hectic political parleys are on to effect change in the SPF leadership with an aim to put the State back on track, he said very soon people of Manipur would realise that trend of Ministry reshuffling ahead of change in leadership and practice of bailing out self from embarrassing position through money power are no more practicable. It is said in connection with the fluid political situation in the State FCS Minister had been to the national capital from March 2 till 4, and returned here on March 5, the Cabinet Minister further said the CM has also returned back from Delhi. The senior Minister further contended that recent incidents of recovering a damaged SLR from Irabot's residence, bomb and firing attacks and unidentified persons launching ambush with Irabot as the apparent target on his return from the Nungba residence of MPCC president Gaikhangam have already been noted by central leaders of the Congress organisation. An internal investigation initiated by no other than the AICC general secretary Rahul Gandhi, who is also the Congress working Committee member, along with other top AICC functionaries into the incidents is an important factor for the political development, the Minister mooted. Further confiding that Y Irabot has been strongly advised by central party leaders to take all possible precautions while attending office and social functions, the senior Minister desired that central forces be provided for Irabot's security. Revealing that there is disparity in the provision of security personnel to MLAs and Ministers, the Minister also posed under what criteria security coverage is being given to a contractor who is allegedly close to the CM. Describing the State Home Department as dangerous, the Cabinet Minister said continued imposition of AFSPA is being exploited as the Government is unwilling to order judicial probe even when charges are made on fake killings by security forces. He further maintained that recent decision of the Central Government to appoint Security Advisor for Manipur is to keep a close tab in the incidents of extra-judicial killings.

Mystery shrouds Advocate General's injuries
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Advocate General Nongmeikappam Koteshwar (N Koteshwar) sustained injuries in mysterious circumstance near Napetpalli at about 7.45 pm today. NK Koteshwar was returning from Hungpung Haokok in Ukhrul district after attending Luira Phanit (seed sowing festival) there together with Works Minister K Ranjit and TD Minister DD Thaisii. The ministerial team which also included the Advocate General left for Imphal at about 4.30 pm together with a large party of security escorts. The entourage was led by flag-post escort vehicle followed by two other escort vehicles just ahead of Works Minister K Ranjit's white coloured Ambassador car. Interrupted by another escort vehicle, Koteshwar followed just behind in another white car (Tata Indica) followed by other vehicles. On reaching the main road from Hungpung village, Ranjit, Thaisii and Koteshwar rode together in Ranjit's car on the invitation of the two Ministers who were riding together from the beginning of the journey. As the entourage approached Gwaltabi after crossing Mahadeva Lamkhai, a gun shot was heard from an unknown direction. A little later, another gun-shot was heard near Yaingangpokpi. However, the entourage continued their journey without halting. A third gun-shot was heard again as the VIP team and their security escorts travelling at the speed of 60 kms per hour reached Nongada. On reaching Lamlai-Napetpalli crossing, five/six rounds of gun-shots which sounded quite similar to the previous gun-shots were heard. Immediately after the gun shots were heard, the car in which the three VIPs were travelling slowed down a bit. But after crossing Lamlai police station where security forces including BSF personnel were on frisking duty, the car again picked up speed and drove ahead. The car and the security escorts drove directly to JN Hospital. There, Advocate General Koteshwar was seen taken to casualty ward of the hospital with injuries. It is reported that Koteshwar was hit by a bullet on the right shoulder. The media team who accompanied the VIPs were, however, not allowed to meet the injured Advocate General by the security escorts. The security escorts asked the media persons to go back saying that the injury to Koteshwar was caused by broken pieces of glass.

RPF declares stand on non-Manipuris
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Stating that local people share a serious contempt against non-Manipuris and that they are no longer safe in Manipur, the proscribed Revolutionary People's Front (RPF) has asked all non-Manipuris who came to Manipur after 1949 to leave the State by May 31 this year. In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary T Leisemba, the outfit remarked that non-local people are much abhorred by the local-people. Citing the recent spate of attacks and killings of non-Manipuris in different parts of the State, the outfit corroborated its claim about in-security of non-local people in the State. Tracing the root causes of the hatred of non-local people, the outfit asserted that people of Manipur changed their attitude to non-Manipuris coming from different parts of India when security forces started torturing and killing innocent people in the wake of armed attacks on them by insurgent groups which began since the late 1970's. This hardened feelings of the Manipuri people against the alien rule. Perhaps, such harassment by security forces also compelled people of Manipur to turn their wrath to any non-Manipuri staying/residing within their surroundings. Another major factor which caused widespread resentment amongst the local people against the outsiders has been the domination by the latter in all administrative and economic domains. Observing that there have been sporadic but unabated reports of killing non-local people, and that the Government of Manipur is unable to prevent such unwanted incidents, the outfit advised all non-local people to leave Manipur for safer places. Claiming that this instruction is for their (non-local people) own welfare and safety, the RPF declared that non-local people struggling for their livelihood in Manipur are not their enemies. Reaffirming its concept of non-local people not being its enemies, the outfit quoted from the DAWN (Volume I, September 25, 1978), �Who is our enemy and who is our friend ? Are the 630 million people of India our enemy ? No. The starving people of India who live from hand to mouth, the peasants and the working class, the exploited and the downtrodden, are not out enemy. They are our friends. Because, the poor in India have no home, no food, no clothing, that is to say, the poor have no motherland of their own in India�. This same concept regarding exploited non-local people was declared since the PLA took birth on the soil of Manipur and the party has been strictly adhering to this principle. Guided by this principle, the RPF, after forging a close relationship with the Maoists who are fighting for the alleged downtrodden and oppressed people of India, has been working together with the Maoists to fight the common enemy, the Government of India. Non-Manipuris coming to Manipur to earn their livelihood for a square meal a day are a small fraction of the 23 crore underprivileged people of India who cannot afford a full meal in a day. To the RPF, they are products of the Government of India's alleged oppressive regime. They are friends of the party, it declared. On the other hand, the Government of Manipur, allegedly functioning at the mercy of New Delhi, has been working hard to blame and indict insurgent groups for the threat and challenge being faced by non-local people. In the face of the indigenous people's rising contempt of non-local people, the State Government has been consistently trying to poison the conscience of non-Manipuris with false propaganda against revolutionary groups. On the other hand, security forces and RAW have been bringing in many intelligence agents to Manipur in the guise of innocent labourers to make Manipur a buzzing nest for espionage activities. In view of all these designs and activities of the Government of India, RPF is impelled to take a definite stance of its own regarding the non-local people. While the State Government is unable to prevent unwanted incidents targeting non-local people, the Government of India is capitalising on the prevailing situation to advance their own agenda. Conceding that the RPF is not in any condition to help the non-local people, it advised all non-Manipuris to leave Manipur by May 31. In connection with this advice, the outfit also appealed to all inter-State buses, trucks and other transporters and the general public not to bring in non-Manipuris to Manipur and not to rent out rooms to non-Manipuris. It further appealed not to sell plot/land to non-Manipuris or allow them become business proprietors/heads or hire them as labourers. Excepting those who come to Manipur for education related purposes for temporary period, experts/scholars coming for temporary works, tourists, players and those coming for art and culture related activities, all other outsiders coming to Manipur are illegal in the view of the RPF, and hence entry of non-Manipuris into Manipur is prohibited considering their welfare. The outfit further sought public cooperation towards its position regarding non-local people.

State Govt pledges protection
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Conveying that Government of Manipur has 'received information regarding certain elements attempting to pressurize the media to issue notices forcing certain sections of people to leave Manipur', a Home department statement issued tonight pledged the Government's unflinching commitment to protect all persons living in Manipur and not to tolerate any acts of violence against any person. Pointing out that unique strength of Manipur has been its rich multi-cultural diversity, the Home Department further reminded that Manipur has also benefited from the many students and professionals working in different parts of the country. Hence, media and all sections of society are urged to uphold the age-old communal diversity and harmony, and resist any steps that might cause division in the society or differences among the people living in Manipur, or in other parts of the country. On the otherhand, reacting to the outlawed RPF/PLA's statement with regard to its stand on non-Manipuris, SSP (IW) L Kailun in a release termed the outfit's stance as 'nothing but a quit notice and an attempt to flare up communal disharmony and among different communities living in the State'. making it clear that hundreds and thousands of Manipuris are living outside the State, pursuing education, etc., the SSP said apart from serious threat to the security of Manipuris living outside the State, the RPF claim of being benefactor of non-Manipuris is an eyewash.

PREPAK refutes connection
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The proscribed PREPAK has rejected any relation between the party and late Huidrom Bidur s/o Changlaobi of Sekmaijing Mayai Leikai. Huidrom Bidur was killed in a reported encounter with a combined team of Thoubal district commandos and troops of 21 AR at Hiyanglam Hiranmei in Thoubal district at about 8.30 am of March 2. A press release issued by the outfit's Thoubal district commander Yaipha Nganba further rejected as baseless and fabricated the press statement of the Thoubal SSP which said that Bidur was a PREPAK cadre and that one 9 mm pistol, four live rounds, one point 38 HE grenade, one Chinese hand grenade, 19 empty cases of AK ammunition and one demand letter of PREPAK (VC). The outfit alleged that the incident was a brief drama of fake encounter. The SSP statement which mentioned PREPAK (VC) was deliberately done to project the outfit as having factions. It reiterated that there is no separate group called PREPAK (VC) in the party. The outfit has snapped all relationship with Huidrom Bidur since around a year back for violating the party's principle and discipline. Moreover, the items reported to have been recovered from Bidur's possession were not related to the party in any manner, added the outfit.

UCM demands transparency
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Taking serious note of the persisting demand of NSCN(IM) for a greater Nagaland, the United Committee Manipur (UCM) has demanded transparency regarding what transpired during the ongoing political dialogue between the Government of India and NSCN (IM), particularly in matters/agenda related to Manipur. A statement issued by the UCM urged upon the State Government to take up appropriate measures and convey its stance to New Delhi in time so that relationship among different ethnic groups of the State does not get strained. For any matter/agenda that is of concern to Manipur, due consensus should be sought from the people of Manipur, it asserted. Welcoming all initiatives taken up to bring peace in Nagaland as well as prayer session and rallies organised by Naga people towards this end, the UCM conveyed wish that a dignified solution is achieved. However, the UCM will fight back in a befitting manner in case the issue of Naga integration is taken up as the foremost agenda challenging the integrity of Northeastern States. Claiming that people of Manipur put no confidence in the alleged double-standard nature of the Government of India, the UCM recalled that representatives of New Delhi spoke one thing in Manipur and something else totally contradictory in Nagaland. The people of Manipur has neither reservation nor objection to granting sovereignty or greater autonomy or larger economic package to Nagaland. But what is pertinent here for both the Government of India and NSCN (IM) is to recall the mass uprising of June 18, 2001 which later came to be known as the Great June Uprising Day. The spontaneous and massive people's eruption was caused by the NSCN(IM)'s experiment of inserting the words 'without territorial limit' in ceasefire extension agreement in a bid to push ahead their dream of forming a greater Nagaland of 1,20,000 sq kms from the present Nagaland's geographical area of just 16,579 sq kms by annexing parts of Manipur, Assam, Nagaland and Myanmar. Pointing out that the design of NSCN (IM) and New Delhi was defeated by the collective strength of the people, the UCM asserted that the strength of the people has not diminished a bit since then. Recalling those incidents where the Chief Minister smiled back when he was received at Senapati with a festoon painted with the words 'welcome to South Nagaland' and the recent incident of inscribing the name of GPRN Kilonser together with names of Cabinet Ministers on the plaque of a memorial stone, the UCM questioned the credibility of the State Government's assurance not on make any compromise on the question of territorial integrity. It further asked the State Government to be vigilant on the ongoing dialogue between New Delhi and NSCN (IM) .

AMUCO questions �peace' concept
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Observing that confrontations between security forces and NSCN (IM) cadres have ceased since it signed a ceasefire pact with the Government of India whereas killing and conflicts among people, different armed groups have been raising in the North East region, All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO) has questioned the concept of peace being espoused by New Delhi in the region. If the Government of India is embracing the killings and conflicts among different groups and people of the North East region within its concept of peace, then New Delhi's perception and treatment of the region is very clear, asserted AMUCO in a press release. Such dubious peace fostered through the ceasefire pact has been aptly termed negative peace by observers of the peace parley. No Naga people or insurgent outfit ought to support such negative peace else it would throw up a big question on the more than 50 years old movement of the Naga people, like for whom the movement is being carried on all these years. Even as the ceasefire pact between New Delhi and NSCN (IM) is completing 13 years, the basic issues of sovereignty and territorial integration are yet to be addressed. In the meantime, the Government of India has put forth its objection to accommodation of the issue of sovereignty within the ambit of the political dialogue even though it has hinted its willingness to grant maximum autonomy. On the other hand, State assemblies of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam have already resolved against dismembering territorial integrity of their States for expansion of Nagaland and forwarded their resolutions to New Delhi, AMUCO noted while recalling about momentous issue of June 18 caused by some errors in the wording in the ceasefire extension agreement. There are certain positive aspects of the prolonged peace process as there is need for national reconciliation and people to people dialogue. Only through national reconciliation and dialogue at the grassroots level can lay a strong foundation for peace. However, dialogue within a single community or monologue cannot resolve conflicts involving neighbouring communities. In other words, dialogue within a single community would not be able to foster better relationship or better understanding with other communities. As such, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation need to organise people to people dialogue with a wider perspective. AMUCO further maintained that no insurgent outfits of the North East region should make demands for exclusive geographical areas based on identity. It is for this reason that agreements, accords, ceasefire pacts and peace talks failed to deliver their objectives in the region. Asserting that �racial boundary' is an outdated political concept, the AMUCO asked the Government of India to allow Kashmir join Pakistan, Bengal merge with Bangladesh and the Northeastern States inhabited by Mongoloid people join either Myanmar, China or Thailand according to their choice in case New Delhi subscribes to such outdated concept.

Two killed; gun-fight rages
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: In unrelated incidents a UG suspect has been killed in a shoot-out with security forces at a Thoubal district area while unidentified persons shot dead a 25 year old in Imphal East district in the past 48 hours. An armed activist suspected to belong to the proscribed PREPAK organisation has been gunned down by a combined security team late last night at Thiyam Khun (village) of Thoubal district even as a gun-fight broke out between unidentified persons and Assam Rifles troops at Keihao village near Nongpok Keithelmanbi, also in thoubal district. Elaborating on the thiyam Khun incident, SSP (Thoubal) clay Khongsai said in a statement that a combined team of district police commandos and troops of 28 AR advanced to the direction of Thiyam and Angtha villages based on specific information about presence of armed PREPAK cadres. Sensing suspicious movement of some 2/3 unidentified persons from Angtha toward Thiyam, the security team laid ambush at tri-junction near a place called Heibirok, the SSP said while adding that a shoot-out ensued for about 15 minutes after the UG suspects opened fire when asked to stop for verification. After the shoot-out ceased one person was found killed with further search of the site leading to the recovery of one M-20 pistol with three live rounds, four empty cases, a chinese hand-grenade and six empty cases of 9 mm pistol, Clay maintained. In the other incident, troops of 23 Assam Rifles were engaged in a gun-fight by well-armed persons suspected to be PLA cadres at Keihao village which lies in between Senapati and Imphal East districts, and is close to Nongpok Keithelmanbi. The encounter is informed to have begun at 2 pm today. Even though there is no report of casualty on either side, the AR troops have launched further search operation in the nearby areas. The person shot dead by unidentified person near a culvert on the inter village road connecting Top Moirang kampu Sajeb and Kanglasiphai in Imphal East district is suspected to be one Md Tajuddin (25) s/o md Alimuddin of Keibung Awang Wangmataba, as per identification document found from the possession of the deceased. A note accusing Tajuddin as an informer for which he was killed had also been recovered. Body of the victim, deposited by a police team at RIMS morgue, bore multiple bullet wounds. The incident reportedly took place at around 2.30 pm today. Meanwhile, a PLA cadre reportedly injured in the Maryland shoot-out with security forces has been apprehended by Imphal West district police commandos from Langol View Charitable clinic, today. The captive has been identified as one Laishram Leichil alias naoba (20) (Army No.3009) from Uyumpok Mamang Leikai, in Imphal East district. A police source said Leichil was undergoing treatment of bullet wound in the leg at the private medical centre. mention may be made that on March 2 morning suspected PLA cadres and security forces were involved in a sustained encounter that initially broke out at Maryland of Chandel district. The police source also speculated that the shoot-out at Keihao village might involve some of the UG cadres that fled after the Maryland shoot-out. on the otherhand, two out of three suspected KYKL-MDF activists whose bodies were recovered some days back with multiple bullet injuries at Chanamlok area near kamuching, have been identified today. The victims were Thokchom Borajao (32) from Wangoo Sabal and Tongbram Maipak alias Tomba (29) from Ingourok Mamang Leikai. The third victim is suspected to be from Yaingangpokpi.

SSA job fraud alleged
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Contending that some of the candidates who do not fulfil the prescribed educational qualifications have been selected in the appointment of teachers under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) in Senapati and Chandel district, RTI and human rights activist Wahengbam Joykumar has questioned why the Deputy Commissioner of Senapati district Nidhi Kesarwani and former Deputy Commissioner of Chandel Devesh Deval should not be penalised in this regard. Talking to mediapersons today, Joykumar informed that appointment of teachers for the visually impaired, hearing impaired and mentally unsound students as well as for the post of Data Entry Operators under SSA in Chandel and Senapati district had been conducted in 2009. However, suspecting that some candidates who have been selected for the post of Data Entry Operators may not fulfil the prescribed educational qualification, an application had been filed under Right to Information Act to the Deputy Commissioner of Senapati and State Public Information Officer (SPIO) who is also the Project Director of SSA for providing the list of the selected candidates and details of their educational qualification. After repeated appeals to the officers concerned, the Deputy Commissioner of Senapati district finally provided a list and later on issued a order declaring cancellation of the appointment of Ms Lanu Pinky as a teacher of hearing impaired as she did not fulfil the prescribed educational qualification. The appointment of Thangtingmang Hangsing as Data Entry Operator in Senapati Dist too had been subsequently cancelled on the same ground of not fulfilling the prescribed educational qualification. Similarly, appointment of Y Shantibala as a teacher for visual impaired under SSA in Chandel district has also been cancelled by an official order after she was found not fulfilling the prescribed qualification. All these irregularities in the appointment process could be detected with the help of RTI Act, Joykumar said, while demanding to know why the Govt should not take action against DC Senapati and former DC Chandel for such irregularities. For the failure of providing the informations being sought in time, the State Information Commissioner had reportedly issued an order to the SSA authority for giving Rs 10,000 to Joykumar as compensation apart from another letter written to the State Government for imposing a fine of Rs 12,500 against District Project Officer of SSA H Ngulkhosei.

Parents await justice on Dr Robert Tiba's death
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: For Thumbu Maram, the struggle had just begun. His son Dr Robert Tiba had fractured an arm in a motor accident near Khatkhati in Assam on January 25 earlier this year, and while undergoing medical treatment at the Hosmat Hospital in Bangalore, he died on February 8 apparently due to negligence of the hospital staff. The struggle to have justice done had just begun for his bereaved family. Professor of History at the Department of History, Assam University, Dr Robert Tiba was returning home from Santipur after attending an International seminar. His car collided with a speeding goods laden truck at Gautam Basti under Khatkhati police station. Tiba sustained an arm fracture. The Pro-VC Assam University, who was travelling just ahead, rushed Tiba to Zion Hospital at Dimapur. Unfortunately, no ortho doctors were on duty that day. His wife, Bijeta, then rushed him to Bangalore where Tiba was admitted to Hosmat Hospital. Dr Robert Tiba, who hails from Tumuyon Khullen village in Senapati District, was conscious and able to walk by himself when he was admitted at Hosmat hospital. On January 27, he was operated by the doctors at the hospital. He came out of the operation theatre complaining of some pain. He was given sedative drug Fentanyl to relieve him of his pain. Dr CB Prabhu, the ortho-surgeon who had conducted the operation, assured Dr Robert he would be discharged ftom the hospital within four days. On the following morning, Tiba complained of pain. The attending nurse provided him a pain killer tablet that did not do much good. Tiba was then given an IV injection of Fentanyl. He got some relief for some time, but immediately lost consciousness and lasped into coma. Dr Robert never recovered from the coma and he breathed his last on February 8 evening. Dr Robert's family strongly felt that it was the negligence of the hospital staff that led to his death. The attending nurse denied that she gave a pain killer tablet in between two IV injections. Tiba's family lodged a complaint with the Halasuru Police Station in Bangalore.

Peace echoes at Saikul meet
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Along with MLA of Saikul A/C Doukhomang Khongsai inaugurating a newly constructed office building of the SDO at Saikul, a one-day peace conference was held at Thangal Surung village in Saikul Sub-division today. Speaking at the inaugural function of the office building constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 20 lakhs under Special Plan Assistance (SPA), Doukhomang Khongsai appealed to the attending village chiefs to advice the villagers to safeguard the office building as their own private property. The MLA observed that after long years of uncertainty which discouraged the Government employees from coming, the wheel of development has started moving in Saikul area with restoration of peace and normalcy through the collective efforts of the NGOs and public leaders. Now the Government employees are also not hesitant from coming to Saikul area. Calling upon the NGOs and the public leaders to continue with their good work, the MLA further observed that no disturbance should be created in the developmental work. Instead Government employees should be encouraged to attend offices and extend support to the developmental works. He also assured every possible assistance from his side in further development of Saikul area. Prior to inaugural of the office building, the MLA participated in the peace conference at Thangal Surung village where issues related to promotion of peaceful-coexistence among various communities were discussed. Speaking at the peace conference organised jointly by the Social Action for Tribal Area Development and Fraternal Green Cross, Doukhomang observed that no one should think about disintegrating Manipur which is home to many communities and the minority communities should not be discriminated. Maintaining that he joined politics and contested in the election just because he wants to bring back peace and normalcy, the MLA also appealed to all the peace loving people to join hands and work together. Threatening the hapless villagers and innocent women and children with guns should also be stopped, the MLA added. Many public leaders including the president of ICHAM N Rajendro alias Boy who were present at the occasion, also took up issues related to restoration of peace in the society.

Advocate General injured of gunshot while travelling
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Advocate General of Government of Manipur, Nongmeikapam Koteshwor sustained injuries when a bullet coming from an unknown origin hit him tonight around 7.45 at Nongada under Lamlai police station, on the way back to Imphal after attending a function in Ukhrul district with ministers. On the other hand, Lamlai police baton-charged villagers of Nongada village who rose in protest alleging that the rounds of gunfire by the ministers' team caused panic among the villagers after the incident of injuring the Advocate General. The bullet that hit the left arm of Advocate General remained stuck in the chest. However, hospital source said his condition was stable and out of danger. He has been admitted to RIMS hospital. The incident occurred while returning from Ukhrul�s Hunpung village where the Advocate General, N Koteshwor along with Works Minister K Ranjit, Tribal Development Minister DD Thaisii and their security escorts attended a celebration of Luira Phanit held at the Hunpung Mini Stadium in Ukhrul district. The advocate general was together with the two ministers in a government vehicle allotted to Minister, K Ranjit for the security convenience on the way at dusk. Koteshwor reportedly sat in the front seat of the Minister�s car while Ministers Ranjit and DD Thaisii were sitting together in the back seat, according to eyewitness accounts. The team left Hunpung at about 6 pm. On the way starting from between Mahadev and Litan, many rounds of gunshots were fired. Firing of at least three rounds of gunshot was also heard when the team arrived near the locality of the state health and family welfare minister, Ph Parijat. No sooner had the firing sounds were heard, a vehicle in which the advocate general and the two ministers were traveling overtook the vehicles of the security escort and sped up. Later it came to be known that the advocate general was wounded by a bullet. The vehicle rushed to JN Hospital where the injured advocate general was given first aids and shifted to RIMS Hospital. Escort personnel later requested media persons not to take photos of the injured advocate. How the advocate general sustained bullet injury is still a mystery as there were no sign of attacking from second party during the journey of the minister. Later, alleging that firing of guns by the ministers team has caused fear and panic to them, villagers of Nongada rose up and stormed the Lamlai police station to lodge complaint. When the police personnel at the police station lathi-charged to quell them out many of them sustained injuries but any of them received serious injuries, reports said. Police are still mum on how the advocate general sustained bullet injuries.

RPF announces its stand on Non-Manipuris
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The proscribed Revolutionary People's Front (RPF) has reiterated that the Non-Manipuris living in Manipur are considered as its friends, but since they are facing hatred of the local people, for their own welfare, it would be best for them to leave Manipur. This was stated in a press release issued today by Secretary, Publicity, RPF, T Leishemba. Reports said, the press release was also distributed as pamphlets in all the districts of Manipur. The RPF stated that "the Non-Manipuris are now facing extreme hatred in Manipur. Given this scenario, the Government of Manipur, in its attempt to keep their weaknesses and misdeeds under wraps, has been working hard to blame and indict revolutionary groups for the threat and challenge to non-Manipuris". The press release stated, "The Government has been consistently trying to poison the conscience of non-Manipuris with waves after waves of false propaganda against revolutionary groups. On the other hand, the IOFs and RAW are bringing in many IOF/Police/Spy agents to Manipur in the guise of innocent labourers to make Manipur a buzzing nest for espionage activities and intelligence agents. In view of all these designs and activities of the Government of India, RPF is compelled to take a definite stance of its own". "Considering the hatred of non-Manipuris by the local people, coupled with the activities of the Government of India aimed at capitalising on such situation, it would not be possible for non-Manipuris to live a secure and peaceful life in Manipur. The Government of Manipur is unable to prevent unwanted incidents. Nor is the RPF in any condition to help the non-Manipuris, even though they are friends of the party. In the light of this helpless condition, the RPF is of the view that it would be prudent on the part of Non-Manipuris to leave Manipur for safer places". With due regards and concern for their welfare, the RPF appeals to all non-Manipuris to leave Manipur, the press release stated. T Leishemba further said that to RPF�s understanding, all outsiders who came to Manipur after 1949 are non-Manipuris. According to the press release, in order to avoid unnecessary troubles in matters related to non-Manipuris, the RPF once again lays down the following appeals, that: first, as there is every possibility of numerous agents swarming Manipur, inter-state buses, trucks and other transporters should not bring non-Manipuris to Manipur. Second, rooms should not be rented out to Non-Manipuris. Third,plot/land should not be sold to Non-Manipuris. Fourth, they should not be allowed to become business proprietors/heads. And, fifth, they should not be hired as labourers. Excepting those who come for education related purposes for temporary period; experts/scholars coming for temporary works, tourists, players and those coming for art and culture related activities, all other outsiders coming to Manipur are illegal in the view of the RPF, and hence entry of non-Manipuris into Manipur is prohibited considering their welfare. Further, all non-Manipuris who entered Manipur already and have been living in the state are informed to leave Manipur by May 31, 2010, the press release stated. The RPF sought public support and co-operation towards this stance of the party. The press release began with an excerpt from Dawn, Volume I, September 25, 1978. "Who is our enemy and who is our friend? Are the 630 million people of India our enemy? No. The starving people of India, who live from hand to mouth, the peasants and the working class, the exploited and the downtrodden, are not our enemy. They are our friends. Because, the poor in India have no home, no food, no clothing that is to say, the poor have no motherland of their own in India". It pointed out that of the many countries of South East Asia, Manipur is one sovereign nation which has written history for more than 2000 years. Not only it has its own distinctive culture, tradition and religion but the Manipuri nation has also gifted the game of Polo in the field of sports and Meetei Jagoi in the realm of art and culture to the human civilization. It stated, "Really, Manipuris are proud to have been born in this wonderful land. Through coercion and under duress, Manipur was forced to sign the Merger Agreement in 1949, subsequently pushing the once sovereign nation to the status of a colony of India. Even as Manipur was defeated in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891, the British rulers never merged the nation into the then British India. Rather, Manipur was allowed to retain the status of a separate kingdom though under the supervision of British agents. But subsequent upon the forced annexation by India, all the political rights of Manipur were snatched away by India. With that, all the resources of Manipur became exclusive rights of New Delhi. Earlier, invaluable sacred texts or Puyas were destroyed in bulk. Following the annexation, a disastrous process of Indianization began steadily removing the Manipuris from their cultural and ethical roots. After a prolonged stupor under the spell of alien Indian culture and social practices, Manipuri patriots woke up at a stage when Manipur, the land of Manipuris, was on the verge of total disappearance". "By the time Manipuris woke up, a large number of outsiders, mostly from India have already made their settlements in Manipur. Starting from cobblers to bureaucrats, these outsiders have penetrated into all available fields of occupation. In short, they have gained control over the socio-economic and political life of Manipuri nation. Domination and subjugation of Manipuris by Non-Manipuris (Indians) bred widespread resentment, dissent and anguish among the indigenous people. By the time, freedom-fighters started targetting Indian Occupation Forces in late 1970s, the IOFs set on a cycle of oppression and murder of innocent people of Manipur. There is every possibility that this added fuel to the fire raging within the hearts of Manipuri people against the colonial rule. Perhaps, this might also cause the victimised, innocent Manipuris to turn their wrath to any non-Manipuri within their surroundings when they cannot fight back IOFs and bureaucrats. Because of all these reasons, non-Manipuris were the principal targets during the agitated period of "Foreigners Issue" of 1980. There were instances when an individual or a group assaulted or killed non-Manipuris. Still, there are reports of sporadic killings of non-Manipuris from different corners of the state. In the backdrop of these attacks, the Government of Manipur, functioning at the mercy of the Government of India, instructed the non-Manipuris not to venture outside Imphal city. Despite these measures, there are reports of assault on and killing non-Manipuris". The press release stated, "As a matter of policy and principle, non-Manipuris are not enemies of the RPF. This was declared since the PLA took birth on the soil of Manipur (DAWN: Vol-I) and the party has been strictly adhering to this principle. After fostering a firm relationship with the Maoists who are fighting for the downtrodden and oppressed people of India, the RPF has been working together with the Maoists to take on the common enemy, the Government of India. Non-Manipuris coming to Manipur to earn their livelihood for a square meal a day are small fraction of the 23 crore underprivileged people of India who cannot afford a full meal. To the RPF, they are products of the Government of India�s oppressive regime, and they are friends of the party".

Organisations working on HIV in NE come under one umbrella
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Organisations of the North Eastern Region of the country working on HIV/AIDS Saturday came under one umbrella to advocate for the introduction and passing of the HIV/AIDS Bill in the Parliament. The North East Coalition on the HIV/AIDS Bill was formally launched in a function held this afternoon at Hotel Classic here in Imphal Saturday. The body will work jointly in pressing the Central government on passing the HIV/AIDS Bill which was finalized in July 2006 by the Health Ministry and submitted to the ministry of law in 2007. The bill, essentially an anti-discrimination law, envisages a detailed and careful planned strategy to address the HIV epidemic through an extensive prevention, care, treatment and support programme has been with the Law Ministry since July 2007. With an aim to put pressure on the government to table and pass the bill at the earliest through different advocacy initiatives, the National Coalition on the HIV/AIDS Bill was formed in May 2008. The coalition comprises of networks and civil society organisation from across the country working in the field of HIV. The launching of advocacy aimed at to broaden this coalition and involve more network and civil society organisations from the North-Eastern part of the country, project director of Lawyers Collective HIV/AIDS Unit said. Networks and civil society organisations, working in the field of HIV in the north east are gathering together to form the North East Coalition on HIV/AIDS Bill in a two-day long advocacy programme organised by the Lawyers Collective HIV/AIDS Unit in collaboration with Indian Network of Positive People (INP+) and Manipur Network of Positive People (MNP+). Human rights violation of people living with HIV/AIDS take place in several forms, he said adding that they are denied or terminated from jobs, denied treatment in hospitals. Children are denied admission in schools just because their parents are HIV positive and women increasingly face violence and neglect. "HIV/AIDS has long gone past being merely a medical problem but is now an issue that has deeply penetrated the social economic, psychological, medical and the human rights milieu," he went on observed stressing the need of the enacting a law to protect the rights of the people living with HIV or affected by it.

Cancel land alloted order to AR: FRIENDS
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The Federation of Indigenous Societies (FRIENDS) today demanded revocation the order of allotting a 250 hectare of land at Langol area in Imphal West district to Assam Rifles for their use. Manipur government has decided to handover the land under the divisional forest office at Langol area to Assam Rifles on the request of the inspector general of Assam Rifles (south) to give them some land for use of their personnel in 2005. After consideration, the government decided to give the land to Assam Rifles at Langol area. Considering for the future of the people of the state, government should reconsidered the allotment of land to the Assam Rifles, demanded a statement of the FRIENDS signed by its assistant publicity secretary, W Shanta. Before handing over the land government should obtain consent of the people. Government should not do anything whatever they like. If government is doing like this, Manipur will become a land of security in the near future, the statement observed. Government authority should remember that the area allocated to the security force is the place where thousands of people are earning their livelihood.

Tripura King demands repeal of AFSPA
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA-1958) divides people and the central government and Manipur government should repeal it from the state of Manipur, asserted King of Tripura, Maharaj Pradyot Kishore Manikya Deb Burman during his two- day visit to Imphal beginning from Friday. The King of Tripura said that AFSPA should be repealed at the earliest. Meanwhile, on the second day of his visit to the state, Maharaj Pradyot Kishore Manikya Deb Burman visited Manipur Palace in Imphal and met with the Titular King of Manipur, Leishemba Sanajoaba. As a mark of respect, Leishemba Sanajaoba gifted a traditional cloth to the King of Tripura. Expressing contentment on meeting the King of Manipur, Maharaj Pradyot Kishore Manikya Deb Burman encouraged Irom Sharmila Devi who has been fasting since the Malom massacre that took place in the year 2000. She has been fasting since then demanding to repeal AFSPA-1958. However, the king of Tripura was unable to meet Sharmila Devi and assured that he would meet her in his next visit to the state. Recounting the ties between Manipur and Tripura, he maintained that "the two states share a strong bond since our forefathers". The princess of Manipur was married to Tripura prince, added the King of Tripura. Meanwhile, on the first day of his visit, Maharaj Pradyot Kishore Manikya Deb Burman attended the 17 general assembly of Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) held Friday at Kuki Inn, Imphal. He left for Guwahati Saturday afternoon.

SF clash with UGs; One killed in other incident
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: Security forces engaged in gunfight with suspected cadres of PLA at Keihou Tangkhul village, 1 km north of Yairipok police station, while a suspected PREPAK cadre was killed by a combined force last night at Heibilok, around 10 km north of Thoubal police station in Thoubal district. Police reports said that today at about 2 pm troops of 23 Assam Rifles engaged in a gunfight with suspected armed cadres of PLA at Keihou Tangkhul village of Ukhrul district but under Yairipok police station. The exchange of fire lasted for about 15 minutes but there were no reports of casualties in the gunfight. Another police report said that a suspected PREPAK militant was gunned down by a combined team of Thoubal police station and 28 Assam Rifles at a place located between Thiyam Konjin and Waithou under Thoubal police station last night at about 12.30 am. The suspect was killed in a brief gunfight that lasted for about 15 minutes, Thoubal police said adding that the dead body was recovered in further search operation in the aftermath of the ceasing the cross firing. Others escaped from the spot taking advantage of the darkness of the night. An M-20 pistol loaded with three live rounds, a 9 mm pistol and a hand grenade recovered from the possession of the slain youth, police added. On the other hand, identity of one more out of the three found killed at uphill of the Nongbram Chanamlok hill under Yairipok police station on March 4 last has been established today. He was identified as Thokchom Borjao (28) son late Mikoi of Wangoo Sabal Leikai. He had left home some six year back, according to the family. Identity of third one is yet to establish.

Two hurt in police action to disperse demonstrators
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: At least two demonstrating activists of trade union protesting against price rise in Imphal on Saturday sustained serous injuries when police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse them. Over 250 people took part in the demonstration rally of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Manipur State Council as part of nationwide stayagrah/jail bharo stir against price rise, job losses, violation of labour laws, disinvestment in profit making Private Sector Unit (PSU), etc. among other issues. The rally kicked off from Keishampat Junction, at about 1.30 pm and while marching on the streets, police dispersed them at Khoyathong using mob dispersion devises, tear gas and rubber bullets. Many protestors suffered minor injuries in the stampede but two of them hospitalized at RIMS Hospital with rubber bullets injuries. Sixty-one year old Mayanglambam Gandharaj sustained injury at the eye while Nameirakpam Basanta (34) was hit by a rubber bullet at the hip. The police action was strongly condemned by the president of the organising AITUC, Dr M Nara who termed the police action as atrocities meted out to the weaker section of the society. "We condemned such type of violent suppressive act of the police. It was a purely democratic and non-violence demonstration but government is dealing it with violence means," he lamented. Before the demonstration rally demanding government immediate action toward controlling price rise was kick started, leaders, members and supporters of the AITUC gathered at Keishampat Junction where a public meeting was held. Talkers in the meeting demanded creation of national social security fund for unorganized and agricultural workers apart from blaming the UPA government at the Centre for unable to control the hiking of prices of the essentials goods. The protest was part of the nationwide campaign launched by the trade unions like BMS, INTUC, AITUC, CITU, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, TUCC, AICCTU, UTUC, etc. which was held Friday in other parts of the country. "Today�s agitation is part of the countrywide protest mainly against price rise, violation of labour laws, disinvestment of profit making PSUs, job loss and failure of government to set up a national welfare fund for the agricultural and unorganised workers," said Nara talking at the meeting. He observed that unity among the trade unions is the only weapon of working class. Meanwhile, Manipur State Council, CPI today said that a delegation of CPI from the state will be leaving Imphal shortly for the National Capital to take part in the nationwide against the same issue which would targeted the Parliament.

UCM cautions Centre against disturbing state boundary
Source: Hueiyen News Service

New Delhi, March 06, 2010: The United Committee Manipur welcomes to the peace talks between the NSCN(IM) and Government of India for lasting peace in Nagaland but the body will not agree to any move which would hurt the territorial integrity of Manipur as a result of peace talks. The UCM, in a statement signed by its IPR secretary Kh Nilamani Kha-Nganba, expressed welcome to giving more autonomy and economic package to Nagaland or sovereignty to Nagaland as a result of the peace talk re-convened after a long gap of time. The demand of the people of the Nagaland long suffered by insurgency for a long lasting solution is also welcome but UCM will not remain silent if Centre, in the effort to fulfilled the 30-point demands put forward by the NCSN(IM), hurt the sentiment of the people of Manipur, UCM is ready to face the same at any cost. The double standard attitudes of the leaders of GOI who made contradictory statement in Nagaland and Manipur are well understood by the people of the state. There is no objection in giving more autonomy or sovereignty to Nagaland or economic package but in fulfilling the expiration of NSCN(IM) but any move to alter territorial boundary of the neighbouring state is not welcomed and Centre should remembered that the Great June Uprising of 2001 and act accordingly in solving the problems in Nagaland.

Talks between IM and GOI for negative peace:AMUCO
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The peace talks between the NSCN(IM) and Centre is termed as "Negative Peace" by the experts. In such negative peace talks Naga people and Naga based insurgent groups should not support it, the All Manipur United Clubs� Organisation (AMUCO) observed today in a statement. The statement of the AMUCO signed by I Brojen, assistant publicity secretary observed that in the last around 13 years of enforcement of ceasefire agreement, violence incidents in Nagaland year to year, the talks is also in progress and sharing in social and economic improvement activities, police reforms had affected, many prisoners had released but matter of criminal activities of underground group, Naga territorial integrity is yet to settle. The question of sovereignty is yet to table in the House and reconciliation process is yet to achieve. The main issues yet to be settled are sovereignty and Naga territorial integration. In this regard GOI do not want to talk on sovereignty but wiling to talk on giving maximum autonomy. In this regard the house of three states of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh had provided resolutions objecting to the slicing out parts of the states to the Centre. On the other hand, there exist ceasefire between government forces and Naga underground groups but Centre is not checking in the indulgence of activities which would clash among the people and creating disharmony among the different section of the society, AMUCO observed. AMUCO wanted to put down that holding peace talks for long time has its merit for the national reconciliation and people to people dialogue because this will able to keep long lasting peace in the region. But it should be keep in mind that the peace talk of monologue nature that is holding dialogue with only one community will not able to settle the conflicts in the neighbouring, the statement observed.

Prepak denies
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The banned People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Prepak) has denied having any relationship with one Huidrom Bidur, son of Changlaobi of Sekmajing Mayai Leikai, said to have been killed in an alleged encouter with a combined force of Thoubal district police commandos and 21 Assam Rifles on March 2 around 8.30 am at Hiyanglam Hiranmei in Thoubal district. Yaipha Nganba, Thoubal district commander, Prepak today stated in a press release that the statement of Thoubal SSP is a cooked up story of a fake encounter. The statement had said that th deceased person was a member of Prepak (VC) grouop and some arms and ammunitions were recovered from him. There is no VC group of Prepak . This had been announced for the umpteenth time earlier. However, the Thobal SSP can not understand this simple fact, the press release sated. It further informed that the party has lost contact with Huidrom Bidur for the past about one year. The so called arms and ammunitions said to have been recovered from his possession were placed near the dead body by the policecommandos. The articles allegedly recovered from his possession had nothing to do the party, the press release stated. It further stated that arrest and killing of a person who has been incommunicated for more than a year on the ground of not abiding by party rules, and saying that he was a member of Prepak (VC) is a deliberate ploy of the police to project the party before the people as one having factions.

Open dialogue on ADC poll
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The Autonomous District Council (ADC)'s latest Act of 2008 was declared to be defective, detrimental and discriminating towards the rights of the tribals of Manipur and therefore get it rectified at the earliest by the competent authority. This was echoed by the participants of the workshop on open dialogue on Autonomous District Council election vis-�-vis tribal rights held on Friday at Tribals� Research Institute in Imphal. The open dialogue was participated by various leaders, social workers from various hill districts of Manipur where they resolved unanimously to get the Autonomous District Council election, 2010 under 2008 Act rectified at the earliest by the competent authority. The Autonomous District Council elections, 2010 is likely to be held either in the month of April or May. The participants of the open dialogue also stated that the Autonomous District Council's latest Act 2008 was enacted after amending the 1971 Act and repealing the 2000 Act. Under 2008 Act, there are no constitutionally guaranteed provisions in practical for safeguarding the inheritance and Constitutional rights of the tribals and therefore it was stated that 2008 Act was totally against the interest of the tribal people, voiced the participants in the workshop on open dialogue. They also discussed that the Autonomous District Council Act of 2008 be rectified after consulting the tribal people and appropriate act be enacted with full autonomy to the tribal people permissible under the Constitution at the earliest by the competent authority. Failure to enact appropriate act would compel the tribal people to consider the government of Manipur as biased towards the tribal people, said the participants of today's meet. The Autonomous District Council election would be held after a gap of 20 years. The workshop was organized by Movement for Tribal People's Rights, Manipur (MTPRM). Dignitaries like prof. Gangumei Kamei, Dr. Horam, BD Mehring, a former Member of Parliament, Somi Keishing, (retd MCS), Nehthang Haokip, president Kuki chief assistant , Chandel district, Athuan Abonmai, social worker, Tamenglong district, TK Kipgen, Paojeng Kamei, president, MTPR attended the workshop on open dialogue on Autonomous District Council election vis-�-vis tribal rights.

Three Naga outfits criticise each other
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Dimapur, March 06, 2010: Three Naga underground factions today hit out at each other while sitting on the same dais at a public ground in Dimapur amid a huge gathering conglomerated. Organised by Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) with the theme, "Journey of Common Hope", the FGN/NNC, the NSCN-K or GPRN/NSCN and NSCN-IM or NSCN/GPRN while making their outfit's statements in turn during the programme gave hard suggestions for one another. Senior member of NSCN-K C. Singson while reading a statement on his outfit's behalf urged the Government of India to immediately stop holding of dialogues with a 'single group'. The NSCN-IM leader Q. Tuccu asked the rival NSCN-K to stop issueing provocative statements in the media while the NSCN-IM leadership is engaging political talks with the government of India. The FGN/NNC leader Zhopra Vero advocated for "one government, one tax". NSCN-IM leader Q.Tuccu's statement was a straight reaction to the NSCN-K's recent media statement where the latter had termed the talk between Thuingaleng Muivah and Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh was a 'mere meeting' but never a political talk. The NSCN-K had also said few days back that Thuingaleng Muivah could only take up social issues of Ukhrul district in Manipur. NSCN-IM leader Q. Tuccu then stated that the Naga 'national workers' instead of maintaining nexus with the "enemies of the Nagas like the UNLF and PLA" to fight against the fellow Nagas, they (Naga undergrounds) should join hands among the Naga brethren to promote the Naga cause further. The NSCN-IM leader then advocated that the top leaders of the FGN, NSCN-IM and the NSCN-K meet at the earliest through the FNR. Meanwhile, the NSCN-K statement in today's programme read out by C.Singson said that Naga problem is a political one and that the ultimate outcome should be a political solution. At the end of the programme all the Naga underground leaders hailing from the three factions participating the occasion joined their hands in prayer. Forum for Naga Reconciliation convenor Rev. Dr Wati Aier highlighted the history of the FNR which had started 22 months ago.

UKLF denies charges levelled by Hill Tribal Council
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, March 06, 2010: The United Kuki Liberation Front (UKLF) has denied the charges levelled by Hill Tribal Council (HTC), Moreh against it as having kidnapped two persons. JM Zou, Publicity Secretary of UKLF stated in a press note that the UKLF is no way involved in the matter of Integrated Check Post (ICP) land compensation or abduction of any individuals. It is really unfortunate that the HTC has charged UKLF with abducting Semjathang Haokip, Chairman of JAC of ICP, Moreh and Ngamjathang Lhungdim, Secretary of the JAC without any basis, a press release stated. The so-called abduction protest rally was stage-managed and carried out by HTC at the instigation of KNA to hoodwink the authority and the public when their misdeeds became exposed and chance of their calculated percentage deduction from the ICP land compensation got jeorpadised, JM Zou claimed. The KNA and the HTC were intimidating and coercing the land-owners/pattadars to give false statements against their will, the press release alleged. He further said that in fact, HTC is the frontal organisation of KNA acting in the guise of civil society. HTC is involved in the murder and killing of innocent people and other non-tribals at Moreh on many occasions in the past. The antecedents of HTC and its nexus with KNA merits investigation by the authority/government for intiating necessary steps to ban such organisation. False allegation by HTC against UKLF is viewed seriously. HTC should come out with such evidence and proofs within two days to substantiate their allegation or tender unconditional apology with whatever hidden truth behind their statements and actions, otherwise HTC shall be inviting trouble for itself, the UKLF warned.

Imphal, March 06, 2010: An archery coaching programme would be organised by manipur Olympic Association under the sponsorship of the CRPF as a part of the latter's civic action programme, said a release adding that intending participants should submit application form within March 10. application forms may be had from the MOA office.