Sangma faces disqualification | President’s Rule revoked in Meghalaya

SHILLONG, May 8 – Former Lok Sabha Speaker and NCP leader Purno A Sangma’s illustrious political career received a setback after he and his two sons, Conrad and James Sangma were all served disqualification notices by Assembly Speaker Bindo M Lanong today. The Speaker served the notices after complaints were filed by Meghalaya Progressive Alliance (MPA) legislators, Nimarson Momin, Manas Chaudhuri and others against the father-son trio for switching sides from the MPA.

Lanong while issuing the notices have given seven days’ time to Purno Sangma and his two sons to respond to the notices. The complainants said the three NCP legislators by “initiating and spearheading the move to leave the MPA and join the Congress, attracted provisions of the 10th Schedule,” and demanded their disqualification from the Assembly.

“I received the complaint last night and found prima facie a case of disqualification is made against all the three legislators and accordingly served the show-cause notices,” Lanong said addressing the media.

The Speaker said, the MPA being an “umbrella of political parties” is one large political unit and Purno Sangma and his sons by switching sides have attracted disqualification proceedings under provisions of the 10th Schedule.

“Purno Sangma and Conrad Sangma met Congress leaders in New Delhi to revoke President’s Rule to help forge a Congress-NCP alliance and later issued press statements in this regard. This is one of the bases on which notices were served to them,” Lanong said justifying his action.

Purno Sangma was one of the key architects in the formation of MPA. He is the chairman of the alliance, while his son Conrad Sangma and former finance minister is the MPA secretary. His other son, James Sangma was the conveynor of the Common Minimum Programme of the MPA.

Lanong said, he didn’t wish to be remembered as a biased Speaker because he had earlier served similar disqualification notices and later disqualified four MPA legislators - Sanbor Shullai (NCP), Paul Lyngdoh of Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement and two Independents, Ismail R Marak and Limison D Sangma - for switching sides from the alliance on April 8.

With today’s development the political crisis has worsened in Meghalaya. The United Democratic Party (UDP) a key ally of the MPA has also sent feelers to the Congress to form the next government after learning about NCP’s “betrayal.”

The NCP has 14 legislators, while the Congress has 26 MLAs in the truncated Assembly of 55 members in the 60 member House, after four MLAs were disqualified and one resigned. The UDP meanwhile has nine MLAs, Hill State People’s Democratic Party has two, BJP one and Independents three.


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President’s Rule revoked in Meghalaya

NEW DELHI, May 8 – The UPA Government has revoked President’s Rule in Meghalaya late this evening, paving the way for formation of a Congress-led alliance government with NCP. An emergent meeting of the Union Cabinet convened by Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh deliberated on Governor, R S Mushahary’s report on revocation of the President’s Rule, that was imposed in the State on March 19.

The Union Cabinet’s endorsement of the Governor’s report had become a mere formality after the Congress with 27 MLAs including one independent and 14 NCP legislators sealed a deal that was brokered by senior Congress leaders.

Former CLP Leader, DD Lapang, who is a forerunner for the post of the Chief Minister and NCP leader PA Sangma were engaged in hectic negotiations to formulate the modalities of the new alliance. The Congress, which on its own was in a position to form a government, was reportedly reluctant to make major concessions barring two ministerial berths, sources said.

The NCP leader, on the other hand, has sought a post of Deputy Chief Minister besides equal number of ministerial posts, sources confided.

After several rounds of bargaining, Sangma allegedly scaled down the demand to 60:40 (Congress-NCP). A Congress insider claimed that Lapang was prepared to part with only two ministerial berths. Lapang along with several of his key MLA supporters is camping in the capital.

The development, however, seals the fate of the Meghalaya Progressive Alliance (MPA) alliance partners, who may have no options but to sit in the opposition.

Meghalaya was placed under President’s Rule after the then NCP-led MPA Government survived a trust vote on the floor of the state Assembly through a controversial decision by the Speaker.

Speaker B M Lanong cast his vote when there was a 27:27 tie in the 60-member House during division.

The tiebreaker came after the Speaker declared invalid the votes cast by four of the five members he suspended hours before the trial of strength on March 17. The action brought down the Congress tally, which had gone up to 31, to 27. The disqualification of the MLAs has been challenged in the Supreme Court.

The Donkupar Roy-led coalition government was reduced to a minority on March 9 following withdrawal of support to the MPA by two independent MLAs Limison Sangma and Ismail R Marak. The crisis was heightened on March 11, when the lone MLA from Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) Paul Lyngdoh, who is also Urban Affairs Minister, pulled out.

Source: http://www.assamtribune.com

13 houses torched at NC Hills

Guwahati, May 8:Some 13 houses belonging to Dimasa people were burnt down in the trouble torn North Cachar Hills district of Assam on Friday by the suspected Zeliangrong youths in a Dimasa village of NC Hills district in Assam. However, no human casualties were reported in today’s incident. With the Friday incident, the NC Hills district continues to experience high tension.

On Thursday Dima Haolam Daogah (Black Widow faction) triggered the derailment of a goods train by removing fish plates. The incident left three security personnel, escorting the train along with others, injured. According to official sources, unidentified gunmen swooped down on Jorai village, about nine kms from district headquarters Haflong, early Friday morning and opened indiscri- minate fire. Later, when the villagers fled their homes amidst the firing, the gunmen set the village on fire.

Thirteen of the total 15 houses in the village were gutted in the incident. A villager sustained gunshot wounds and was rushed to hospital at Haflong. On hearing the incident, police and security personnel rushed to the spot but by then the gunmen had fled. The personnel launched a massive combing operation but the hostile terrains and poor road communication have made their task doubly difficult.

The villagers told police that most of the gunmen were garbed in army fatigues and black dresses. It was not immediately known which group was involved in the incident.Meanwhile, Director General of Assam Police, GM Srivastava, said that additional forces had been rushed to the restive district with a senior officer of STF overseeing the situation. The war (against the militants) is on and itll take sometime before we can go all-out against them, the DGP added.

Source: Newmai News Network

SoO truce : State talks past and future

IMPHAL, May 8: Along with a serious study of the prevailing law and order situation of Manipur among other issues including progress of the Suspension of Operation signed with the Kuki UG groups and the peace progress being initiated with some other UG groups, a meeting of the Strategy Operation Group (SOG) has reviewed the past achievements as well as the future actions to be taken up today.

According to a reliable source, the meeting which was held today was very significant in the sense that it was convened soon after reviewing of the law and order situation of the State at New Delhi during a meeting presided over by Union Home Secretary Madhukar Gupta and was attended by Chief Secretary of the State, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) and DGP on May 6.

Today’s meeting presided over by Chief Secretary Rakesh was attended only by top officials of the security forces operating in Manipur and the discussion covered all the problems related to law and order and measures being taken up by the security forces in this regard.

The meeting of the Strategic Operation Group (SOG) attended only by Additional Chief Secretary (Home), DGP, three IG (Law & Order), GOC of 57 Mountain Division, IGAR (South) and top officers of BSF and CRPF also deliberated on the follow up actions of the recent Operation Summer Storm launched under 57 Mountain Division at Keibul Lamjao National Park of Loktak lake.

With regard to security measures required in connection with laying the railway track from Jiribam to Tupul and then upto Imphal, the meeting took up all the issues related to the existing security problems along Imphal-Dimapur Road as well as along Imphal-Jiribam Road and deployment of adequate security cover.

The achievements of the security forces including ongoing counter insurgency operations have also been deliberated at the meeting.

Apart from discussion on the progress of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) signed between the Government of India and Manipur on one side and two joint groups of various Kuki-Chin-Mizo UG groups on the other, the SOG meeting had also pondered over the steps being initiated for peace talks with one of the PULF faction as well as with KCP-MC group.

While discussing the responsibility to be shouldered by various units of the security forces in containing the problem of law and order in the State, today’s meeting had also touched on the current issue related to closure of the drug stores in the State following threats and extortion demands from UG groups.

Besides reviewing the activities of the security forces, the meeting had also finalised various future course of actions to be taken up, the source informed. However it declined to elaborate on the matter maintaining these are very sensitive.
Meanwhile, another round of meeting between the Government and the Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) of the Kuki UG groups namely UPF and KNA/KNO which have entered into peace talks with the Government was held today.

Presided over by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) DS Poonia, who is also the Chairman of JMG , the meeting held at Ist Manipur Rifles Battalion complex here was attended by representatives of UPF and KNA/KNO.

According to a reliable source, among other agenda, today’s meeting discussed issues related to construction of 11 designated camps both for UPF and KNA/KNO and completion of the work within a timeframe of three months.

Today’s meeting also decided to revise the amount of Rs 50 lakhs finalised for construction of the designated camps in the previous meetings.

Out of the proposed 11 designated camps to be set up, seven are for UPF.
However, after discussion it was agreed that one more designated camps would be allotted to UPF during the meeting today.

Accordingly the total number of designated camps to be set up for UPF has increased to 7, the source disclosed, adding that issuing of identity cards to most of the cadres of UPF and KNA/KNO have been completed.

Today’s meeting did not take up the proposal of UPF to increase the number of identity cards to be issued to its cadres to 200 as it was decided in the previous meeting of the JMG that the matter would be considered after the cadres started staying in their respective designated camps, the source further disclosed.

Source: http://www.thesangaiexpress.com

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The voting time has begin now. You are requested to cast your valuable vote for Zolengthe at IndiBlogger of the Month. Your vote counts a lot.

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l Conrad to be Deputy CM l New Govt to take oath in a day or two, Lapang to head Cong-NCP Govt

NEW DELHI/SHILLONG: In order to end the ongoing political stalemate in Meghalaya, Congress and NCP on Wednesday night sewed up a coalition at the top level and the new Government is likely to take oath on Thursday night or the day after. As per the broadly agreed formula, Congress, the largest partner, will head the new coalition with DD Lapang as Chief Minister. Both parties would share the ministry in a mutually agreed formula, sources said.

Confirming the deal, senior Congress leader Dr Mukul Sangma said both the parties came to an understanding 'for the sake of stability'.

It is learnt that besides Mr Lapang, the Congress would have six of its legislators as Cabinet ministers, while five other ministerial posts would go to NCP including the post of Deputy Chief Minister which is likely to be held by Conrad K Sangma.

NCP leader Purno A Sangma is unlikely to be part of the Cabinet. According to the agreed formula he will retain the post of Chairman, State Planning Board.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar held talks with Mr Sangma, AICC General Secretary in charge of the state L Falerio and Ahmed Patel.

All later held another meeting with Mr Lapang and state leaders late in the night where the coalition formula was hammered out.

Basically, three formulas were worked out of which the last one was agreed more or less with some changes. The first formula was to share the Chief ministership for the remaining four-year term equally by Mr Lapang and Mr Sangma.

The offer of Congress having Chief ministership and NCP the Speaker's post was also not accepted. Sharing the ministry on fifty-fifty basis was also rejected.

After a marathon meeting it was agreed that while posts of Chief Minister and Speaker would go to Congress, NCP would retain the post of Deputy Chief Minister. Allocation of portfolios has been left to the state units, but Congress is likely to gobble up the plum posts.

There were also reports that the NCP had placed a proposal for non-inclusion of Dr Mukul Sangma in the proposed government. However, NCP leaders declined to comment on the report.

Efforts to form a Congress-NCP government in Meghalaya, which is currently under President's rule, formally started with Mr Sangma meeting Dr Manmohan Singh here on Monday. Leader of the Congress Legislature Party and former Chief Minister Mr Lapang is also camping in the national capital with other Congress leaders.

Mr Lapang is expected to arrive in Shillong on Thursday.

Congress has 26 legislators while NCP has 14 legislators making a total strength of 40 legislators in the new alliance in an effective strength of 55 out of the 60-member House.

Sources said the Centre may revoke President's Rule to enable a Congress-NCP government in a day or two.

Meghalaya was placed under President's rule on March 19 after the then UDP-led Meghalaya Progressive Alliance (MPA) government survived a trust vote on the floor of the State Assembly through a controversial decision by the Speaker.

Speaker BM Lanong cast his vote when there was a 27:27 tie in the 60-member House during division.

Meanwhile, NCP leader Conrad K Sangma said, ''For the sake of political stability and in the interest of the people NCP is bound to work together with Congress.'' ''I don't think any party is ready for mid-term poll and there should be a solution to put an end to this political stalemate,'' Mr Conrad told a news agency over phone from Delhi.

Congress spokesman Dr Roytre C Laloo, meanwhile, has denied reports that a section of Congress legislators are not in favour of any alliance with NCP, adding that Mr Lapang had been authorised to initiate steps for formation of new government with likeminded parties as per the direction of the party's High Command.

"The Congress Legislature Party has authorised Mr Lapang to initiate whatever steps required for formation of a new government in the State," Dr Laloo said. (With inputs from agencies)


HSSLC results today

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG: The results of the Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC) examinations of Science and Commerce streams, conducted by MBoSE will be announced on Thursday at 9 am. The results will be available on the website - megresults.nic.in


Twin-murder case: Hearing on Friday

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG: In a fresh development, the Shillong Bench of the Gauhati High Court has asked twin-murder accused Fullmoon's Dhar lawyer to withdraw the bail petition from the court.

Judge T Vaiphei issued the directive during the hearing of the case recently.

Earlier, the defendant had filed a petition in the High Court pleading bail while also seeking transfer of the case to the District Council Court.

Meanwhile, the defendant has withdrawn the petition and the case has been sent back to the district council court, which would take up the matter for hearing on Friday.


30 non-tribals apprehended

SHILLONG: The KSU’s Jaiaw Circle has apprehended 30 suspected non-tribals from different parts of Jaiaw.

All of them, engaged in construction works in different places of Jaiaw locality, failed to produce any valid document to prove their citizenship. Most of them were from Bihar, Assam, West Bengal. They were later handed over to police.

Meanwhile, KSU leader Hamlet Dohling has expressed concern over delay on the part of the State government to implement work permit system.


No official intimation from NCP: MPA
Purno’s move stuns Donkupar
Congress-NCP alliance

SHILLONG: With NCP and Congress forging an alliance to form a new government in the State, the UDP, a major ally of Meghalaya Progressive Alliance (MPA) government, termed the Congress-NCP combination as ‘opportunistic’.

"We didn’t expect Purno Sangma to decide this alone, even when he is still the Chairman of the MPA, a non-Congress alliance, and his decision amounts to political betrayal of the people," dejected former Chief Minister and UDP president Dr Donkupar Roy said.

"I have tried to contact him and confirm on the new alliance, but Mr Sangma is not available," Dr Roy said.

Echoing similar views, leader of the UDP Parliamentary party J D Rymbai said, "We are surprised and disappointed. We (MPA) had vowed to stick together, if the NCP wants to go with the Congress we cannot do anything."

Mr Rymbai, however, maintained that the UDP would not betray the MPA.

Mr Sangma, who has been the most vocal critic of Congress in the North-East, met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday night and reportedly discussed the possibility of a Congress-NCP alliance in Meghalaya which has been under President’s rule since March 19.

"Mr Sangma should have informed us before going ahead with this move," Mr Rymbai said.

Meanwhile, the MPA held an emergency meeting to take stock of the current political scenario.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting here on Wednesday, MPA spokesperson Manas Chaudhuri said so far there was no official intimation from NCP "if they want to leave the MPA to forge an alliance with Congress".

"It would be unfair from our part to comment anything on this unless there is an official intimation from the party," he said adding "there were similar reports in the past about the Congress-NCP alliance which never materialised."

On reported meeting between Mr Sangma and the Prime Minister, Mr Chaudhuri said "being a leader of a national party Mr Sangma might have met the Prime Minister to discuss the political scenario at the national level."

Stating that MPA was concerned about the ongoing political instability in the State, he said "the need of the hours is a stable government with a difference".

"The MPA has given Government with a difference", the MPA Spokesperson said, adding that the truth was that what the MPA Government had achieved in the past one year none of the Governments had achieved in the past 37 years since the State achieved its Statehood. Terming Congress as a power hungry party, Mr Chaudhuri said if situation demanded the MPA was ready to sit in the Opposition. He informed that the MPA would meet again to discuss the matter and react at the right time if NCP joins hands with Congress to form the Government. Interestingly, none of the NCP legislators attended the MPA meeting. According to Mr Chaudhuri, majority of the NCP legislators were out of station. UDP legislators Metbah Lyngdoh, Donbok Khymdeit, Nimarson Momin and BJP legislator AL Hek could not attend the meeting as they were also out of station.


Explosives recovered in Jaintia Hills

JOWAI: Jaintia Police recovered explosive materials planted in the house of one Dominica Pala at Thadmusem village in Jaintia Hills on Wednesday morning.

Following a complaint lodged by Ms Pala, police rushed to her residence and seized the explosive materials.

Sources said Ms Pala discovered the explosives in the kitchen and immediately informed the police.

Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police MK Singh said a case has been registered and police are investigating the matter.

JAC warns cement factories: The Joint Action Committee (JAC), an umbrella organisation of Jaintia Social Welfare Organisation (JSWO), Jaintia Coal Miners Association and Jaintia Hills Truck Owner Association, has threatened to resort to agitation if cements factories in Jaintia Hills failed to respond to their demands.

The JAC in its meeting held at Lad-Sutnga demanded that all cements factories in the district should buy coal from within the district.

Meanwhile, JAC Chairman, Balen Thubru has warned non-local suppliers to stop supplying coal to cements factories in the district.


German official studies poll procedures in State

SHILLONG: With a view to understand the electioneering process, Germany sent its representatives to various parts of India. Interestingly, the time chosen for this undertaking coincides with the general elections in the largest democracy of the world.

As part of the mission, Florian Burkhardt, the First Secretary (political and protocol) of the Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany, New Delhi came to Shillong recently.

During his visit Florian Burkhardt met leaders of various political parties namely, BJP leader AL Hek, Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee president Friday Lyngdoh and NCP state President WR Kharlukhi.

Speaking to reporters before leaving for New Delhi here on Tuesday, Burkhardt said that his main objective for meeting the state political leaders was to understand the electioneering process in the state of Meghalaya.

"I met leaders of the Congress, BJP and NCP to understand strategies that are followed in the process of electioneering" Burkhardt said.

He also informed that the German embassy is closely monitoring the elections scenario in India.

The First Secretary (political and protocol) of the Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany has stated that it is "interesting and fascinating" to witness the world largest democracy going for the trial of strength".

Other envoys of the German embassy are also camping in various parts of the country on the same mission.

During his meeting with the leaders, the envoy said "we discussed the prospects of various candidates in the state as well as the region".



Exhibition on non-conventional energy

SHILLONG: Meghalaya Non-Conventional and Rural Energy Development Agency organised a two day exhibition-cum-sale on non-conventional energy at Shillong here on Wednesday. Some of the items on sale include solar lanterns, home lighting systems, biogas plants, water heating systems, solar street lights and solar cookers.



SSHR caution

NONGSTOIN: The Seng Samla Hima Rambrai (SSHR) West Khasi Hills has cautioned people against killing of aquatic lives within Hima Rambrai. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the SSHR said that people both from Hima as well as from outside the Hima will have to face penalty if found guilty of such acts.

Meanwhile, the SSHR has condemned Kling Wahlang of Rambrai and Beckstar Nongsiej of Mawmluh for allegedly destroying aquatic lives by using chemicals at river Thwei Synrem of Hima Rambrai. "The Indian Fisheries Act 1987 will take its course on the accused", said the statement of the SSHR.

Meanwhile, the people of Nongstoin have expressed concern on the frequent non-supply of electricity despite the ongoing load shedding in Nongstoin and other parts of the district. Different sections of people including shopkeepers and government employees were disturbed by the irregular supply of electricity by the MeSEB.


Weekly launched

SHILLONG: A Khasi weekly newspaper, Ka ïit Khmih' (The Mirror), was formally launched on Monday. Veteran Khasi newspaper vendor Bah Rit Kharsyntiew launched the paper at a small function held at Motphran.

The paper aims at providing information on different issues relating to society. The paper will be available on every Monday of the week. (By Our Reporter)


jaintia Hills Round-up

District Unit FKJGP constituted

JOWAI: The District unit Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) was formed in Jaintia Hills at a meeting held in Jowai on Wednesday.

The meeting was attended by the state leaders of the organisation including its president, Emlang Lytang, general secretary, Joe Marweina and president of North Khasi Hills. The meeting was chaired by the vice president of the organisation, Wellbirth Rani.

FKJGP Shangpung circle president, Tuesday Lytep was appointed as the district president, Hunlang Langstang as the general secretary, Franky Dkhar and Paila Lyngkot as the organising secretaries whereas Danny Chadap was appointed as the Information Secretary besides fourteen others as executive members.


Book forfeited to the West Bengal Govt

JOWAI: The Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner has informed that a Book written in Bengali entitled Sandhya Pader Katha by Sankar Deb Halder and other documents containing copies, reprint and translations has been forfeited to the Government of West Bengal with immediate effect.

According to the Deputy Commissioner, this was done because the contents of the book could have created discord among the different groups and communities.


RTI Act training held

JOWAI: The Jaintia Hills District Administration in collaboration with the Meghalaya Administration Training Institute, Shillong organised a one day training program on the Right to Information (RTI) Act 2005 for local clubs, voluntary organisations, non-governmental organisations and churches here on Monday at the Deputy Commissioner's Conference Hall, Jowai.

Speaking on the occasion, the Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner, Sanjay Goyal who inaugurated the training program, said that the RTI Act 2005 is an important and powerful tool that can be used to seek information on the various functions of government machineries.


House looted

JOWAI: Unknown miscreants broke into the house of one James VP working as a teacher at St. Mary's Mazzarello Higher Secondary School, Jowai and fled away with Rs. 7000. Sources informed that the miscreants broke into the house between 8:30 am to 12:30 pm while no one was present at the house.


‘Knowledge of safety measures should be provided to miners’

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG: Deputy General of Mines Safety, Eastern Zone, Sitarampur SI Hussain has pointed out that 90 percent of the mining areas in Meghalaya is yet to be recognised by any authority.

"Considering this fact, it is very important that people working in the mines are trained with various safety measures to protect themselves from various unforeseen accidents that might take place while working in the mining areas" Hussain said, while speaking on the concluding function of the 6th North East Metalliferous Mines Safety Week-2008-2009 held at Don Bosco Youth Centre here on Wednesday.

"Coal is one of the mineral resources found in abundance in the state and it is important that its mining be carried out in an efficient manner.''

''Using the latest technology available would bring benefit not only to the state but also to the common people at large," he said.

He said that the Government is trying to bring in a policy so that training on various safety measures relating to mining activities may be imparted even to those people who are working in the mining areas which are not recognized by any authority.

He also pointed out that the state government would be required to play an active role by organising various workshops relating to safety measures of people working in the mines.

Meanwhile, Director of Mines Safety, Eastern Zone R Kulsrestha informed the gathering about the proposal of setting up of a training centre for the people working in the un-recognised mines.

The 6th North East Metalliferous Mines Safety Week-2008-2009 was organised by Mawmluh Cherra Cement Limited (MCCL) and Komorrah Limestone Mining Co. Limited.


Over 800 candidates attend army recruitment rally

JOWAI: Over 800 candidates from Jaintia Hills, Ribhoi and West Khasi Hills District took part in the first day of the Army Recruitment Rally conducted at Kiang Nangbah Stadium, Ladthadlaboh Jowai on Monday. The four day rally was flagged off on Monday by the Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner, Sanjay Goyal in the presence of the Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police, MK Singh and Extra Assistant Commissioner, SC Laloo besides army officials including, the Director Recruitment RO (Hq), Shillong, Colonel R.S Guleria, the Deputy Director General (Recruiting), NE States, Brigadier KJ Singh and the Director Army Recruiting, Aizawl, Colonel RA Venkataraman.

The recruitment rally will conclude on May 8 and the written test for the qualified candidates will be conducted on May 31 at the Army Head-Quarter Area 101, Shillong.

More candidates from other districts including those from East Khasi Hills, East, West and South Garo Hills are expected to join the recruitment rally as scheduled.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Goyal said that the youth of Meghalaya have immense potential to excel as soldiers in the army and that is the reason the army is trying to reach every district of Meghalaya.

"A recruitment rally is a golden opportunity for candidates who want to join the army and serve the country", added Goyal

Goyal reflected on the valour of the Armed Forces and said that they are second to none. He also appreciated the efforts of the Army Hq-101 area and the recruiting team from Shillong for organising the rally at Jowai for the benefit of the rural youth. He also announced that a coaching capsule for the common entrance examination will be organised for the qualified candidates after May 10 under arrangements to be made by the District Administration.

The Director Recruiting R/O (Hq) Shillong, Colonel RS Guleria said that recruitment rallies were conducted in Meghalaya for the youth so that they get a fair chance to join honourable professions in the prestigious Indian Army.

"The rally conducted at Jowai is primarily to provide recruitment opportunities to youth of Meghalaya who belong to remote villages of Khasi-Jaintia and Garo Hills Districts", he added.

Further he stated that the system of selection is very fair and highly transparent in which the selection of candidates is purely on merit basis according to their performance both in the physical and the written test.

Col. Guleria also informed that a special recruitment will be conducted with special preference to sports persons who have excelled in their respective disciplines at the state and national level. (From Our Correspondent)

Source: http://www.theshillongtimes.com

At least 11 killed in Tamenglong road mishap in Manipur

Azonnah Zaspar | TML/IMPHAL, May 7: Tamenglong came to a stand still today when the tragic news of an Imphal-Tameng-long passenger bus meeting an accident that left 11 passengers killed and 49 others injured reached the town. The incident occurred at around 7 am today along Tamenglong Khongshang Road at Sangrungpang, situated 21 kms from Tameng- long Police Station towards Kaikao village.

The passenger bus named Sai Baba bearing registration no MN01-1748 and belonging to one Nongmaithem Bhogen of Heigrujam was coming towards Imphal when its brake failed and fell into a gorge around 200 feet deep.

According to SP of Tamenglong, after the driver lost control of the steering, the bus ran straight for some distance before it rammed into a corner and fell rolling into the gorge and engulfing in flames instantly on hitting the ground. The bus had departed from Tamenglong at around 5.30 am.

In all, six passengers died on the spot and their bodies charred completely while five others passed away either at the hospital or on the way to the hospital.

Identify of those killed in the incident have been established as Meiriangliu Gon- mei (46) of Kaikao village, Namdisinliu (40) of Tamenglong Ward no. 4, Alet Samper of Dolang Chiru, Kadichang (32) of Tamenglong Ward no. 3, Lubuiliu of Longjon village, Sk Gaimunliu of Noney Ward no. 1, Chingthuanliu (25) of Longjon village, Ngamsiliu (40) of Longjon village, Guilangliu of Longjon village, Achouba Singh (43) of Moirang but posted at 5th MR at Khongjaron and one year and eight months old baby boy D Mathai of Magulong village.

The death toll is likely to be increased as the condition of some of the injured passengers is stated to be critical.

Out of the 49 injured passengers who were registered at the district hospital, 22 of them have been evacuated and referred to RIMS Hospital at Imphal for further examination and necessary treatment.

Among the injured who have been referred to RIMS include the driver of the ill-fated bus Yumjao Singh (52) of Kwakeithel, Imphal and handyman Gainingjuan of Tuangtao village.

According to SP Tamenglong, among the injured who have been referred to Imphal, the condition of three of them are very serious.

On hearing the new of the incident, activities in the town came to a halt with thousands of people gathering at the hospital to find out the identities of the victims.

On hearing the news, local MLA of 52-Tamenglong AC Khangthuanang Panmei rushed to the district and took first hand account of the incident that has shocked one and all in the town. He also visited the families of the victims in the town area.

To oversee the situation, Deputy Commissioner of Tamenglong district Jacin-tha Lazarus, IAS and SDO Tamenglong C Arthur, IAS also personally visited the site of the accident and took active part in transporting the injured passengers to the hospital.

Town Churches Union (TCU), Tamenglong and Zeliangrong social organi-sations like Zeliangrong Union, Zeliangrong Baudi, Zeliangrong Students’ Union Zeliangrong Youth Front and Zeliangrong Women Union also extended their help in collecting monetary assistance to meet the medical expenses and traditional shawls from the public for covering the bodies of the deaths and the injured. A sum of Rs 1 lakhs and 92 traditional shawls have been reported collected.

Youths from Kaikao village and Sangrungpang village assisted in evacuating the passengers trapped in the mangled up remnants of the charred ill-fated bus.

One Dr Sunil Kamei, posted as MO in-charge of Nungba Community Health Centre also rushed to Tamenglong and helped his counterparts at the district hospital in looking after the medical needs of the injured passengers.

Contribution made by the personnel of 11 Assam Rifles and 5th Manipur Rifles was also worth mentioning. While 11 Assam Rifles send a medical team to the accident site and provided ambulance to transport the injured to Imphal, 5th Manipur Rifles despatched its jawans to help in carrying the injured besides arranging vehicles for their transportation.

In a statement, PRO Defence Wing said troops if 11 Assam Rifles reacted immediately and rushed emergency medical assistance to the spot and rescued the injured passengers and provided them with necessary emergency and medical first aid. The prompt action and first aid given by the troops of Red Shield Division saved a number of precious lives, the PRO claimed.

Volunteers of Bharat Scouts and Guides also extended help in their own capacity by controlling the crowd in and around the hospital.

Meanwhile, TCU, Tame-nglong, in a release, has thanked all the public for their selfless contribution.

In a separate release, People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA), Tamenglong District unit informed that Outer Manipur sitting MP Mani Charenamei has donated a sum of Rs 10,000 to the relief committee and a team of PDA led by its president visited the accident site this afternoon.

On the other hand, Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC), Outer Manipur MP Mani Cheranamei and Department of Political Science, Manipur University have expressed shock over the tragic incident.

In a statement, MPCC president Gaikhangam said death of 11 passengers and causing injuries to over 46 others was indeed sad and prayed for peaceful repose of the departed souls and speedy recovery of the injured victims.

Expressing condolences to the bereaved families and praying for speedy recovery of the injured, Mani Charenamei has extended his gratitude to the people of Sangrungpang village, the district administration, the Central Security Forces, the doctors, nurses and every one who rendered their services in saving the injured and retrieving the bodies of the deaths. He also prayed to the Lord for giving courage to the bereaved families to overcome their grief and pain.

The teachers and students of the Political Science Department of Manipur University have also mourned the untimely and sudden demise of one of the students of the Department in the same tragic incident.

According to a statement issued by head of the Department K Ibo Singh, Kadichang Pamei who was among those killed in the accident was students of MA fourth semester in the Department of Political Science.

Along with observing two-minute silence as mark of respect to the departed soul, the teachers and students of the Department also shared in the grief of the bereaved family, the statement added.

Source: http://www.thesangaiexpress.com

Talks possible if only sovereignty on the agenda : RPF Dy chief

IMPHAL, May 7 : The proscribed Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) has resolved not to engage in any political dialogue with New Delhi under any circumstances other than on the issue of Manipur’s sovereignty. A resolution to this end was adopted during the second congress of the party held at its Council Headquarters (CHqs) from July 14 to December 4, 2008.

The second congress participated by 84 senior members re-elected/elected Irengbam Chaoren as president, Manoharmayum Ngouba as vice-president, Sanasam Gunen as secretary general, Wangkhem Ibohal as secretary Health and Family Welfare, Nongmeikappam Honda as secretary Finance, Laitonjam Chanu Yang as secretary organisation, Takhellambam Leishemba as secretary Publicity, Moirangthem Suresh as secretary Bureau I, Mayengbam Gibon Luwang as secretary External Affairs, Pukhrambam Chouyai as secretary Bureau III and Jackie Samper Chiru as secretary Minority Affairs.

Under its firm belief in building up a united force of all militant groups of Manipur, RPF has resolved to join hands with like-minded armed outfits of Manipur having the same objectives.

The outfit has also decided to establish cordial relationships with ethnic based armed groups pursuing divergent goals. However, the RPF would fight them in a befitting manner in case these groups commit the blunder of conniving with adversary forces or turn against them.

The RPF has also resolved to tie-up with other revolutionary groups of India with compatible thoughts and principles so as to jointly fight against the Government of India.

As a matter of principle, the RPF would never indulge in or support elections held in Manipur under the Constitution of India.

Under the same principle no retired cadre of the RPF/PLA will be allowed to participate in elections as a candidate.

The outfit will pay special attention to the efforts of smaller ethnic groups towards safeguarding their identities.

The outfit will also make maximum efforts towards enabling RPF/PLA cadres belonging to smaller ethnic groups shoulder greater responsibility in the ‘people’s liberation movement’.

The Congress further resolved to fight back and check all the ploys of the Government of India aimed at ‘Indianisation’ of the land.

The outfit has also decided to check further ‘influx of non-Manipuris’ as well as to drive back non-Manipuris already settled in the State.

The congress endorsed the party’s policy of not viewing security forces comprising mainly of Manipuris as enemies and to refrain from attacking them.

However, the party reserved the right to treat as enemies those Manipuri security personnel who deliberately act like adversaries.

The RPF will pay special attention towards preserving wildlife and ecology. All religions and faiths will be equal in the eyes of the outfit.

Other resolutions adopted in the congress included complete ban on all functions pertaining to the Government of India, promotion of art and culture and sports including indigenous games and establishment of a Court for the outfit.

Source: http://www.thesangaiexpress.com

UN laments choking of Bethlehem

The UN has accused Israel of restricting development of the Bethlehem region in the West Bank. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Ocha) said just 13% of land around Bethlehem was open for use by the Palestinian population.

It said the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ was hemmed in by Israeli settlements and military zones as well as Israel's West Bank barrier.

An Israeli foreign ministry official said the issue was beyond Ocha's remit.

Next week, Pope Benedict is due to celebrate Mass in Bethlehem , a Palestinian governorate which is home to 175,000 inhabitants, including many Christians.

Two-thirds of the governorate's 660 sq km (255 sq miles) has been under Israeli control and about 86,000 Israelis live in settlements and outposts in the governorate, Ocha says.

Israel occupied the West Bank in the 1967 war and its settlement activity is regarded as illegal under international law, although Israel disputes this.

Cut off

"Israeli measures have radically reduced the space available to the inhabitants of Bethlehem, compromising the future economic and social development of the governorate," the Ocha report says.

The report says that in addition to the land put under Israeli control under past interim agreements between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), 20% of the remainder is an Israeli-controlled "nature reserve".

Meanwhile, the West Bank barrier cuts through Bethlehem's western edges blocking off grazing and agricultural land, the report says.

"As a result, Bethlehem's potential for residential and industrial expansion and development has been reduced, as well as its access to natural resources," the report said.

Israel says the barrier is needed to keep out Palestinian attackers, including suicide bombers. Palestinians call it a land grab since it juts into the West Bank.

Yigal Palmor of the Israeli foreign ministry said he had not seen the report but accused past reports by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs of containing "distorted information".

Settlement drive

Separately, information released by an Israeli anti-settlement group, Yesh Din, said settlement activity in the West Bank had been accelerating at the fastest rate since 2003.

It cited more than 20 cases of new Israeli building on occupied territory since January, on both sides of the barrier, including a number of outposts built without Israeli permits.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon promised the previous US administration that he would evacuate all unauthorised outposts built after March 2001, but critics say evacuations are carried out intermittently and without rigour.

The international peace plan known as the road map called on Israel to halt all construction in the settlements, although observers say construction has never ceased.

Israel says it is not building new settlements, but claims the right to foster "natural growth" within the confines of existing communities.

Source: BBC NEWS

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I NAM BANGCHI PUAHPHAT DING

By HangP (Paulianhang), M.A.
“I lungkiat kei pouhleh ahuntak in agah I aat nading hi..” [Galatiate 6:9 ]

Thupatna: Thangkhal kuan, a kampau zangh leh Thangkhal khak leh suan khat kahihhang in ka tenna uh tuam ziak in Thangkhal sung kivaipuakna – khotang leh biakna lam ah kakihalkha kei a, mipite hi in lamkaite hitaleh kuamah kathei kholkei hi.

Pawl 10 ka zawh apat in Lamka pulam ah maban ka sunzom a eima sung a kihal nading hun ka nei kei hi, tu’n zong sepna ziak in muntuam ah ka om a kei a ding in ei sung a kihal ding chih pen manglam mah bang chih ding ahita hi. Tuabang teng ahihhang in Thangkhal ka itna leh ngaihnatna pen a bei tuan kei a zongh beilou ding hi. Kei deihtel ziak a Thangkhal kahikei a, kei utlouh ziak a zong hilou thei ding kahikei hi. Thangkhal khak leh suan kahih ziak a Thangkhal kahizaw hi.

Ei Thangkhal te pen tawmnou khat a ikilat vang un itawm khol kei ua, asiam-apil omlou ibat vang un hunkhoppi I om veve uhi. Tualeh ei pen ituam vilvel na uh khat om hi’n kathei hi. Kuate hiam Thangkhal kichite chi’n en in abeh aphung en talei – atuam vive kihiden mok hi. Nam dangte ahihleh atangpi in tua behte ahihleh tuate hi’nteh kichi thei in ei pen atuam vive I ham in ahung kankhawmte kihi ahihman in kuamah akineisak tuam omlou in nuam mahmah in thei ingh. Nam dangte ahihleh akineisak tuam omthei zelzel mawk uhi. Ei Thangkhal sungpen Mangkam in gen talei ‘beyond clanism’ ichi diai ‘borderless’ ichizaw diai chih ding khat kisuak in ihuap uh lian mahmah hi. Hih pen lamkaite leh mipite’n itheihsiam mahmah uh poimawh hi. A zatdan isiam leh ihatna bulpi ahiding a, isiam keileh ingiamkiakna bulpi hikik thei veve hi. Tualeh nam khenkhat in hih beh-leh-phung pansan in Thangkhal sung sukkek sawm gige uh chih pen mit a imuh leh bil a izaksa uh ahita a, kuapeuh ipilvang chiat kisam hi.

Bangziak a tawmnou khat a kilangh, apil-asiam omlou bang a kilangh ?

I gensa mah bang in ei Thangkhal te pen tunia kitheizah sang in itamzaw ding uhi. Hinanleh Solkar leh mi vantang theihna ah itamkei uhi. Aziak pen mi hunkhop Thangkhal khak leh suan hinapi in Thangkhal kichi utlou ki omthei lai hi. Bang ziak? Akizumpih ziak uh maw, ahihkeileh lamkaite kitup louh ziak. Ka theihkhelh kei leh kum 3 hal zel in gamsung pumpi ah Solkar Census Dept. in misimpina (Census) neizel a, tuapen kum 10 hal zel in India pumpi ah kisuahkhia in India sung a miphazah in record kikoih a kipomdet zel hi. Hih gamsung misimpina ah ‘kuate nam?’ ‘Nu-nawitui ham(mothertongue) bang?’ chihte zong gelhtel teitei na ding mun om hi. Hih hun chiang in Thangkhal hi a, akampau zangh mi hunkhop te’n beh-leh-phung a ana enkha in Thangkhal tang in nam dang ana gelhkha zel uhi. Ahihkei leh Thangkhal pen recognized tribe ahihlouh ziak a gelh utlou pawl zong om ding a gintat ahi. Hichibang teng ziak in iphakzah diktak taklat in om lou a, atawmzaw a chiamteh in I om zel uhi. Tu’n bang lawh ding? Maban ah Solkar Census Dept. ten misimpina ahung neih kik chiang un nam min gelh na ding mun ah Thangkhal gelh chiat in, Nu-nawitui ham gelh nading mun ah Thangkhal mah gelh chiat ta ni. Tua chi’n ihihna diktak leh iphakzah diktak theih leh chiamteh in I om ta ding uhi. Banghiam chi’n Census latute’n Thangkhal kichi omkei/solkar in theikha kei chin atuam gelh ding in ahung sawl maithei uhi, lauken la pangdet in, nou theihpih leh theipihlouh ziak a ka hihna bei ding ahikei, Thangkhal kahihziak a ka gelh ahi, bangchi’n atuam ka gelh thei diai? Chi’n pangdet lei bangmah gentam theituam lou ding uhi. Hih igen pen census lak hun chiang a ding maimai ahi a, tribe certificate leh official lai poimawh tuamtuam lak hun chiang in recognition imuh masang izangh theinai tadih kei hi. Pilvang ni.

Tribe recognition ipoimawh takpi na uhiam?

September 2008 in TPO in Zomi Council ah Tribe recognition tawh kisai apuaklut thu KHALVONTAWIINFO (group mobile SMS) in ahung suah a, ahung thathousak tuan mahmah hi. A langkhat ah nam khenkhat te’n hihthu azak un pataudak ana satman phial uhi. Tribe recognition muh in bang phattuam na hungtut hiam chihpen ka ngaihsut a, phattuamna om leh omlouh pen thu tuam hitaleh tuni a Thangkhal kampau zangh nam tuamtuam sung a kitheh thangte hung huaikhawm in kankhawm ding a, Thangkhal chih kizumpih mi bangzah hiam te hung hangsan ta ding ua, tualeh eimite UNO – Zomi Council ah kimpih tawh tanvou kikim itang thei tading uhi. Nam khenkhat in kamsiam tak leh kilawmtak in ‘Zomi Council nuai a kigawmkhawm ding kibuaipih a, pan kilapan pan a, nou a tuam a recognition na delh louh ding uh ahi, pankhawm hun ahita’ ahungchi heuhhauh maithei, pilvang in. Zomi Council nuai a kigawmkhawm ding pen sil hoih mahmah ahi a, hinanleh Zomi Council nuai ah nam min chiat in ki om kik veve hi chih manghilh kei in. Thangkhal te’n atuam in recognition adelh kei ua, a lawm leh gual teng atun na ding mun atun khit a hung mitkeuh pan uh ahizaw a, Zomi Council nuai a kigawmkhawm nading lampi ah hih recognition in dal/subuai ahihleh recognition nei sate abang chi ! Thangkhal te recognition poimawh lou ahih leh adangte recognition zong poimawh lou hi. Zomi Council nuai a om Recognitised sa nam teng in pangkhawm ka ut ta uh, a tuam tuam a recognition ka deih nonkei ua, ka recognised hihna uh lakhia in Zomi chi’n hung recognized ta un chia India solkar kiang a apiak ma uh Thangkhal Tribe recognition thu ah kuamah in bangmah agentam thei kei ding hi. Tuabang ahung om leh Thangkhal te’n zong atuam in recognition idelh ut non kei ding un ka gingta hi. Tuaban ah tulai a Zomi wave om masang pek apat Thangkhal recognition thu ana om ahita chih zong manghilh lou in atheisiam loute hilhchian zelzel ni. Tribe recognition imuh ziak a Thangkhal ihikei a, mukei bilbel lei zong Thangkhal ihi veve hi. Tuaziak in hih recognition muh leh mulouh thu ah kuamah lungke kei ni, ilungkiat kei pouleh ahuntak in agah I aat na ding uhi.

Literature, Culture leh Custom:

Thangkhal ham pen khauh ahihman in igelh chiang in atamzaw consonant ‘H’ leh “K’ tawh tawp hi. I ham igelh chiang in khat gelh leh khat gelh pen kuapen a dikzaw chih ding khat in om gige thei hi. Biakna tuam leh kivaihawmna pawlpi tuam nei ihihngal leh hih pawl tegel kigawm in Literature Board khat om thei leh deih huai in poimawh mahmah ta hi. I ham, itawndan te kepbit ding poimawh hi. Thangkhal te’n ham zong ihau ua, tualeh eimi sung a sannem laa tamzaw zong Thangkhal te a ahi a, ikepbit kei leh khatvei chiang itanghzou kei khathei hi. Tualeh miteng in ihaam igelh chiang a akibat nading in Literature Board in zuih ding tangpi khat bawl hun ahita hi. Khatvei chiang Manipur Board nuai ah subject khat hung hithei ahihman in, panlak hun kipat hun ahita hi. Tualeh sawtlou a Thangkhal haam a Laisiangthou (Bible) nei ding ihita ua, tua Laisiangthou a thuteng kizatdan pen dikkim khol kei mah leh Literature Board I neih ua, zatding abawl masang ua kuapeuh in ilaigelh nate ua izuih ding un ahoih hi, tuachi’n ilaigelhte uh ahung kituak thei tading hi.

October 2008 in TPO in Thangkhal culture & Custom laibu asuahkhia chihthu kana za a, kakipak pih mahmah hi. Thangkhal mi tamzawte’n Mulaam a ipu-ipa te tawndan theipha nonlou in eima beh-leh-phung te tawndan iki zuih chiat tamawk valong uhi. Anai pen a gen in- Mulaam ah ipu-ipa te’n tawndan tuam ana nei ngei ding uhi. Hinanleh kuama’n kem leh zui lou in, tuni’n itenna mun tuam dungzui in anailam a ibeh-leh-phung tawndan te nopni-dahni in izui ua, hihpen inam simmawhna leh nelhsiahna khat ahi. Thangkhal ikichih ngal leh ibeh-iphung tawndan sang a Thangkhal tawndan mah nopni-dahni a izuih chiat ua, ipuahphat ua ikepbit ding uh poimawh hi. Nang leh ke’n ikepbit kei a izuih kei leh kuate’n kembit a zui ding? Hih Thangkhal Culture & Custom Laibu pen kuapeuh in zuichiat in itawndan kembit chiat ni chi’n ikichial hi. Amin maimai a alaibu nei hilou in nopni-dahni in zuichiat lei inam itawndan tawisang ihi ding hi. Tualeh khangthak te’n zong hih laibu apat itawndante zilthak in theichiat lei hih laibu akibawl man om hipangiap ding a, tuachilou in amawkna suak thei hi.

Tuaban ah, inam khantouh na ding, I ham, itawndan kepbit nading in literature lam uangbawl poimawh hi. Literature ihauh zawh peuh leh ihaam pen khang semsem ding hi. Laphuahsiam, laigelhsiam, tangthu gelhsiam te’n atamtheipen a Thangkhal ham a isuahkhiat ding uh poimawh hi, tuachi’n ihaam pen ithehthang ding a, mite’n atheitam in asimtan ding ua, ihaam hung popular mai ding hi. Tuhun chiang in aneizou leh mikiphal hunkhop I omta ua, atung a igen talent neite pen kiphaltak a ihasot ua itawsawn zing ding uh kisam hi.

Lamkaite leh mipite mawhpuakna:

Nam khantouh na ding in miteng in mawhpuakna inei chiat ua, imawhpuakna pen kibang chiat lou hi. Tualeh isep theih lam bang chiat in imawhpuakna uh omkhin hi. Kuamah amimal in hih nang mawhpuakna chi’n kihawmgual lou ding a, hinanleh eima’n imawhpuakna ikitheih ding poimawh hi. I septhei ibawltheih leh isepna chiat ah imawhpuakna om khin ahihman in chihtakna tawh ipan chiat uh kisam hi.

I gensa bang in eipen tuam vilvel ihihman in lamkaite’n lungpi akuah uh kisam a, nam tawh kisai thute ah nihvei-thumvei ngaihtuah a thupukna alak zelzel uh hoih in nam damna hiding hi. Tualeh eima mimal deihtuam/tuptuam leh phattuam na ding ziak a lamkai hihna tuhlou ding in kuapeuh ikichial hi. TPO, TSP chihte zong mipite deihna bang a lamkai itel zel ua, mipite’n zong Pasian kiang a thumna (prayer) tawh inam lamkai ding itel zel ding uh poimawh hi. Tualeh mipite’n zong inam/pawlpi lamkaite hoih in hoihkei taleh ithuap phot ua, ahoihlou te zong I sukdik zawk ding uh ahi. Nam dangte mai a ilamkaite sialphou lou a agupdan leh seldan isiam zawk ding uh ahi. Tuabang ahih chiang in ikituak ding ua, inam hat in ikhangtou ta ding uhi. Tuaban ah, Pawlpi leh nam lamkai ding tel hun chiang a kuapeuh in ngaipoimawh a, lunglut tak a I lamkai ding uh itel zel ding uh zong poimawh hi. Nang leh kei lunglut louh ziak in inam in lamkai hoih leh muanhuai khat taan thei ahi chih manghilh ken.

Sinlaite ahihleh zingchiang a inam lamkai dingte ahi uhi. Tua ahihman in ilaisimna chiat uah kuhkal tak a pan ilak uh kisam hi. I innkuanpih, I unau-sanggam te maimai hilou in inam in zong na lawhchin a na phungchin kal ngaklah mahmah ahi. Nam itna leh veinatna ziak a laisim paisuaklou/kituplou chih zong sinlai khenkhat omthei a, tuate pen ke’n nam it kachikei a, nam it dan theilou, ahunlou a agah aatsawm kachi zaw hi. Nam itna ziak a kuama’n ilaisim ibuaisak louh ding uh ahi a, inam I it takpi leh I sinlai a ihahpan sem a, asiampen, apilpen, a tungtuangpen hih ding itup zawk ding uh ahi. Tuachia a penpen ihung hih chiang in isakmin lawibangthang in, inam min tawisang in a om ding hi. Sinlaite’n ‘ka nam bang kapia in ka nam ading in bang kabawl thei a…..’ chinai tadih lou in ‘ka nam bangchi’n ka tawisang in, ka nam min bangchi’n vannuai ah ka thangsak thei diai…’ chizaw lei eima ading leh I nu-leh-pa ban ah inam ading in lawchinna thupi hizaw ding hi. I nam I it takpi leh I sinlai hihna manghilh louh ding ahi. Hih kachih hang in, inam nelhsia a nam min a kivaipuakna, kipawlkhawmna tuamtuam te ngaihsak louh ding kachihna ahi laizangh kei hi. Zingchaing a nam lamkai dingte ihihman in tuni apat inam sung paidan, kivaipuakdan itheih zong poimawh hi. Nam sung a khotang hinkhua a kihal dan ahunchaing theihding, ilaisim isinlai hihna manghilh zen a nam thu a lunglut a, inam veinat nai tadih louh ding chi ut ihizaw hi. Tualeh siam leh pil a iphungchin chiang in kuapeuh in inam nelhsiah louh hamham sawm chiat ni.

Nangmah mimal in va lunglut kholkei lechin zong khatvei-nihvei inam vaisai nate a navakilak chiang in sinlaite hanthawn in, mipite khamuan tuan mahmah ding ahi. Nam dang bang a asiam apil kiching depdup nailou ihihman in a omsunte’n inam a nelhsia chiang in mipite ading in lungneu huai a, sinlaite ading in etton ding omlou thei hi. Mun khat peuh a I om zong in inam ading in sep leh bawl, piak leh tawi I bawlthei gige hi chih manghilh ken.

Pasian min a ikiphalnate ah pilvang hoih hi.

Tamkhollou ihihhang in isung ah biakna tuamtuam a om a, tu dinmun in atamzawte kipiakna leh inam min a biakna omsun TBC ahiphot hi. Iki piakna tuam mah leh I biak Pasian pen khat hi veve a, tuamah bang in I ham zong khat hi veve hi. I biakna doctrine ah kulmut seng lou in inam min a biakna ompen kuapeuh in tuamkoih lou a ibul bawl chiat ding un hoih sa ingh. Hih kachih hang in TBC mite’n Thangkhal kineihsak tuam a, kiletsakna neih ding ahi kei a, Thangkhal min a omsun ahihziak a bulbawl chiat ding chi kahizaw hi. Bang biakna ah om nanlei ihihna Thangkhal beituanlou hi. Ahihhang in inam it takpi ihihleh biakna dang ah om nanlei TBC I nelhsiah thei tuam kei ding uhi. I nam min pua ahihban ah kuamah tawh kigawmlou, ei Thangkhal te a vilvel ahi hi. Biakna dang pen atamzaw nam tuamtuam ham tuamtuam kigawm hi zel hi. Biakna dang a omte’n neizou in Pasian ah hat in sawm-a-thum penanlei, I unau-sanggam in phattuampih khalou ding a, kuate hiam in phattuamna muhlawh zaw ding uhi. Pasian a ding a na silpiak pen mihingte phattuam nading mah a kizangh ahi chih thei in. TBC pen phungvuh lei ahung khantouh chiang in inam khangtou hiding a kei leh nang khantouhna himai ding hi. Thangkhalte khantouh leh khantouhlouh pen inam min a om biakna apat in mite’n hung teh ding uhi. Tua ahihman in biakna lam a piak leh tawi na neihzaw leh pilvang in, denchaing in Pasian ading a nakiphalna pen na tup louh pi in na nam (Thangkhal) mite tung a simmawhna leh nuainetna in pangkha thei hi. Nang Pasian min leh Pasian gualzawlnate kipakna a napiak ahihhang in biakna vaihawmte’n na piaksa pen amau deihna bang leh hoihsakna bang in zek zel veve uh ahi chih manghilh ken. Taksa a omlai ihihman in leitung paidan zong et zelzel poimawh hi. Pasian min a nakiphal nate pen leitung mite’n zek zel veve uh ahihman in, nakiphalna pen inam sung a tagah genthei te’n zong phattuamna nei le uh chi ut ihi. I biak Pasian khat ahi a, Amah min a ikiphalna silpiak zek tute atuamtuam ahihman in theihsiam a pilvang kisam hi.

Thukhitna:

Pasian in ahung gualzawl zel a, nidang sang in ikhangtou mahmah ta ua, tuni’a ikhantouhdan uh ipaipih zel leh sawtlou in nam khenkhat imakhelh pai tading uhi. Kuapeuh lungke kei ni, I nam ading a isep theih bang chiat semtou zel ni. Mimal hi’n pawlpi hitaleh ilungkiat kei pouleh ahuntak in agah I aat nading uhi. Pasian in nang leh kei sang in ahun theizaw a, Amah a ding in bangmah kikhel in zekai ngailou hi. Pasian eilam ah apang tawntung hi, Amah laudan siam a, agualzawlna leh athahatnate azatdan siam ding in simtu tengteng Pasian in hung gualzawl ta hen.


BIO-DATA:

Tax Assistant,
Dept. Of Income Tax,
Nizamabad, Andhra Pradesh
-----------------------------
Pa min – Tunzachin
Nu min – Hangngaihniang
Pianna Khua – Zoumun
Tenna Khua(Present) - Ngoiphai
Born in 13th August 1977.
Class X – Blue Star Academy, Lamka (1993)
Class XII – Churachand Hr. Secondary School, Imphal (1995)
B.A ( Sociology) – DM College of Arts, Imphal (1999)
M.A (Sociology) – Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi (2003)
Present Address – Nizamabad, Andhra Pradesh

Zeme Council challenges DHD (J) claim

Dimapur, May 7 : The Zeme Council has denounced the claim of the DHD (J) that the North Cachar Hills in Assam belongs to the latter and has warned the militant outfit against confusing the Nagas’ patience and tolerance as weakness. The Zeme Council (north east) today issued a brief statement condemning the DHD (J) “sneaking into NC Hill and disturbing the life and harmony of Zeme/Jeme Naga, Hmars, Kukis and the Karbis”.

The outfit (DHD) was formed only in 1993; so how can they claim that the NC Hill district belongs to them when the Zemes, Hamars, Kukis and Karbis had been living there since time immemorial, the Council asked.

According to the Council, more than 130 people were killed in the ethnic bloodbath between the Dimasa and Hmar in the hill district in 2004 and now their “guns turns to the Zeme/Jeme Naga for provoking”.

‘Appealing’ against taking the Zeme Nagas’ patience and tolerance as a weakness, the Council has asserted that the community will never remain a silent spectator “in case if they (DHD) repeated again their ugly and undemocratic manner towards Zeme Naga”.

Source: NEU

10 students from Assam clear the civil services examination 2008

NETV Bureau | May 5th: It is indeed good news for the people of Assam that altogether ten students have cleared the civil services examination 2008. This is for the first time such a big number of Assamese students came out with flying colours in all India civil services examination. Barnali Deka, a resident of Dispur secured 16th position in the merit list.

She is the daughter of retired IPS officer Kamlesh Deka and prof Dr Dipali Deka. Barnali is now undergoing training at National Police Academy in Hyderabad. Hailing from a flood affected village of Dhemaji Biswajit Pegu secured 116th position in the examination. A student of political science from Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, Biswajit said he achieved the goal by dint of hard labour. He said it is a dream that he always cherished came true.

Similarly, Padmapani Bora of Jorhat secured 521st position in the civil services examination. A doctorate of political science from JNU, Padmapani too is happy with his result. He said skill and hard labour are the keys of success in such a competitive examination.

A graduate of zoology from Delhi University, Prakash Borgohain is now a lecturer in biology of Hangshoraj College in New Delhi. He is also doing a research on cell biology. His father Khagendra nath Borgohain and mother Santana were also jubilant at their son’s achievement. Many people of the locality crowded their residence after the announcement of results. Praakash is however busy in his research works in New Delhi. The performances of these Assamese youths have generated inspiration among the students of the state.

Source: NETV Bureau

All Tribals Students’ Union Manipur is concern

IMPHAL, May 6: The All Tribals Students’ Union Manipur has shown concern at the incidents of killings, breach of peace and brutal conduct of the security forces and non-state armed players over the past 62 hours which have caused a fear psychosis among the common people.

Asking for exemplary punishment to the personnel involved in the shooting of four civilians at Khundong village on May 2, the union has asked for necessary assistance to the victims for their recuperation.

It also condemned the killing of Lalsanglen Mangte near Saikul police station allegedly by the 4th IRB jawans on May 3 calling it a show of indiscipline in the forces and asking the authorities to remove such personnel from service.

Meanwhile, the Zeliangrong Students’ Union Manipur and the KSO, Ghq have also vehemently condemned the firing at the four innocent civilians at Khundong village under Tamei by the 14th Maha Regiment on May 2.

Asking for a court martial of the personnel involved in the incident the two bodies have also asked for compensation for the victims who were all bread earners in the family.

The students bodies have also thanked the chief minister for extending financial assistance to the victims.

Source: IMPHAL FREE PRESS

Landmines killed 40 in Manipur since ’01

Image by Cambodia Trust via Flickr

SOBHAPATI SAMOM | IMPHAL, May 6 – A three day convention of people affected by the ongoing slow- intensity conflict and narcotic drugs has urged both the State and non-State forces to immediately cease the trend of exploding bombs and placing landmines in inhabited areas.

According to Ginkholal Touthang, Secretary of the Association of Landmine Survivors, many inhabitants of villages located under Khengjoi Block in Manipur’s Chandel district bordering Myanmar have been killed in landmine explosions while many others have been maimed for life. Since 2001, more than 40 villagers have been killed in such landmine explosions.

A landmine victim and housewife Tilhat of Molcham village said, “We don’t want luxurious houses nor trendy cars, but we yearn for peace where there is no fear of landmines”. Her children refused to go back to their village saying that bombs might blow up and gun fights might break out.

Urging that the government should act immediately to check the proliferation of small arms and ammunition in Manipur and the North East, the gathering of Peoples’ Platform Secretariat in collaboration with different organizations from nine districts also reminded the government to immediately initiate peace talks with non-State actors/insurgent groups by removing the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act and spur development.

The common people here are caught in the crossfire between the State and non-State forces since the last six decades. As a result, there have been frequent killings. Besides, the basic facilities of the common people such as food,water,road, electricity and healthcare are still denied.

The convention which came out with a ten point charter of demands on its concluding day on Sunday said, “There are a large number of women in the State who have been widowed after their husbands were killed by gunmen – both State and non-State as well as those widowed in bomb blasts, landmine and by HIV/AIDS.

The number of widows is rising rapidly in the face of the daily killings that are continuing unabated in Manipur. Around 61 persons were reported killed in the ongoing conflict in Manipur last month.

Source: THE ASSAM TRIBUNE

Mizoram rural people more interested in politics: Survey

Aizawl: Rural people in Mizoram are more interested in politics than their urban counterparts, according to a survey. While a lot of voters had expressed their loss of hope in politicians and political parties, a majority of rural people still remained loyal to the political parties they had been supporting since their grandparents’ time, the post-poll survey conducted by the Mizoram University’s political science department found.

‘Behavioural study of political attitude and opinion in Mizoram: A post-poll study during the Lok Sabha election’ was conducted in 20 of the 40 Assembly constituencies during the last few weeks.

''In each selected 20 constituencies, we short-listed four polling stations where we distributed questionnaires,'' political science lecturer of the university C Lallianchhunga said.

''While a lot of voters had expressed their loss of hope in politicians and political parties, we found that majority of rural people still remained loyal to the political parties,'' Lallianchhunga added.

''A significant finding was that many people in the rural areas were living in extreme poverty and were eagerly looking forward to a good government to liberate them. A number of cultivators said they had had enough of the primitive shifting cultivation, but had no other options due to lack of agricultural policies by the government,'' he said.

On the contrary, the survey states that the urban dwellers were economically better off than their rural counterparts. Therefore they paid lesser interest to politics.

The survey was funded by the University Grant Commission under the National Election Study 2009. The political science department had conducted similar study with CSDS (Centre for Studies of Development Science)-IBN during the Assembly elections last year. (UNI)

Source: THE SHILLONG TIMES