The Morung Express: 20th Jan'2011

 

The Morung Express: Thursday  20th January 2011

Qr. Ram Muivah

'Bless are the Peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God’ 

Blessing by Shokvao Headman

Matthew 5:9 “Happy are those who work for Peace, God will call them his children”.

HungHao

AFTER more than 43 years of discord between two villages, Qr. Ram Muivah took the onus of peace reconciliation and all his indefatigable efforts came to be fruitful by commemorating the " Covenant of Peace" on 18th January, 2011 ( a Red-letter day for both the villages) 11 years ago and today we see peace and development all-round the periphery of Muirei (Joyland), Ngarumphung, Ramrei, Lamlai and Chadong village etc., etc.

Sir, Ram Muivah as a true peace loving, down to earth humble man who fear the Lord God and walk the path of God guidance with vision and is justly the most reliable gentlemen for the in-generation to lead us for peace, progress, development, opulence and affluence of the Tangkhuls. Imah Ihao must under any cost not let it slips this golden opportunity to be our leader, who ' Light the Candle to cure the darkness'  if ever we want to see the changes and true sense of development in our life time.

A dynamic leadership spirit in him, a versatile personality, a man with principle, dignity, enterprising and indeed very resourceful persona what else to we entail to be our leader. Yes, Ram Muivah slogan, “Mission Ukhrul” talks of the town speaks a MILLION DOLLAR words, it is not self-contained but catchy and deep soulful, loyal and unswerving meaning.

Today, we the new generation prerequisite good leadership more than anything else to change the present filthy system of our society and yes we found providentially in Ram Muivah that is not 

flattering or assuaging but indeed blessed to have Amei, Ram Muivah in our midst thank God for that for we are not entirely lost or compromise wholly in worldly system. We have our hope enlightened once again through his sacrificial services to lead us ….

May victory be in the hands of the God fearing, God chosen leader.

"Praise the Lord”.

CDS Gen Bipin Rawat

CDS Gen Bipin Rawat, wife and 11 others killed in IAF Chopper crash

(Madhulika Rawat and 11 other persons on board have died in the unfortunate accident) 

CDS Gen Bipin Rawat

HungHao

Chennai,Dec' 8,2021:   INDIA's first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, his wife and 11 others were killed when an IAF helicopter crashed near Coonoor in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu today.

Gen Bipin & wife Madhulika

Confirming the deaths, IAF in a tweet said “With deep regret, it has now been ascertained that Gen Bipin Rawat, Madhulika Rawat and 11 other persons on board have died in the unfortunate accident.”

PM Narendra Modi

(File pic) 

Gen Bipin Rawat was an outstanding soldier. A true patriot, he greatly contributed to modernising our armed forces and security apparatus. His insights and perspectives on strategic matters were exceptional. His passing away has saddened me deeply. Om Shanti.

President Kovind expresses grief over the demise of General Bipin Rawat who died in an air crash today. President says, he was shocked and anguished over the untimely demise of General Bipin Rawat and his wife

(File pic) 

General Rawat had served the country with exceptional courage and diligence. As the first Chief of Defence Staff he had prepared plans for jointness of our Armed Forces: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh 

(File pic) 

(Source: mixagencies/twitter) 



NSCN condemn Amit Shah's

NSCN-IM Condemns Amit Shah’s statement as irresponsible 

HM Amit Shah

          (Press Statement)

           ---------------------------

HungHao

Dimapur, 8 Dec'2021: THE National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) has taken a strong exception to the irresponsible statement of the Union Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah in the Indian Parliament on Oting’s mass killing by the 21st Para Commandos of the Indian Army on the 4th December, 2021, in Mon district, Nagaland. Amit Shah’s statement comes when the whole Nagas are in a state of mourning in solidarity with our Naga brethren belonging to the Konyak community in Mon district. 

In a situation like this, Amit Shah was expected to show political maturity and practical statesmanship in order to cool down the socio-political upheavals. Ironically, he poured fuel to the burning issue by standing behind the Para Commandos under his command with his fictional sleuth stories supporting the Para Commandos for their heinous act of killings. This is like rubbing salt and chili in the wounds of the Nagas. Truth be told that there was no signal to stop the pick-up van of the coal laborers as mentioned by Amit Shah in Parliament. 

One of the survivors, Sheiwang who is undergoing treatment at the Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh, said, “They shot right at us, no signal to stop, we did not flee.” 

There is nothing to doubt that it was a botched ambush with deliberate mission to kill and nothing to do with ‘credible’ intelligence of NSCN movement in the area. Nothing can be far from truth that it was something executed deliberately. 

What is most sinister is when the Army was found stripping naked the dead bodies of the Naga civilians with military dress to give the impression in the eyes of the media and the world that they have gunned down the militants. Luckily, they were caught red handed by the villagers before they succeed through their plan. 

Significantly, NSCN is now driven to the point to take the stand on the draconian Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA). This notorious AFSPA has given the Indian security forces the license to shoot and kill anyone on mere suspicion. We Nagas have endured the insults heaped on our human dignity for too long. The Nagas have had the bitter taste of this act on numerous occasions and it has spilled enough blood. Blood and political talks cannot go together. The Nagas can no longer be made the laughing stock in the eyes of the world. No political talks will be meaningful under the shadow of AFSPA. Let human dignity take control and be made an integral part of the Naga political peace process. Unfortunately, the Oting’s killing has become a threat to the Nagas’ longing for Naga political solution.

Therefore, placed under this compelling situation, NSCN put on record that ‘enough is enough’ the atrocities and tortures meted out to the Naga people by the Indian soldiers. Now if the Government of India (GoI) wants to do justice to the Naga people, AFSPA must be immediately withdrawn and investigation for proper prosecution must be immediately constituted. Investigation must be independent and transparent. Prosecution must be done for justice for the people in general and the victims in particular. It must also be transparent so that scrutiny from any quarter must sustain. 

It is necessary to remind oneself that the reckless perpetration of atrocities and tortures meted out to the Naga people during the Oinam’s Bluebird Operation in 1987 for which a case was taken up in the Gauhati High Court (GHC) but when judgment was about to be delivered by the GHC the Chief Justice of India had prevented may be at the behest of the GoI from writing the required judgment. Thus, the Indian soldiers are emboldened beyond measures and they have been treating the Nagas like sub-human beings without fear of any scrutiny of the court of law. 

Therefore, this time round, the Naga people expect that the judgment must be transparent and must be swiftly delivered. This is the only way to establish absolute fidelity between the Naga people and Government of India.

(MIP) 

My husband was not a terrorist

 My husband was not a terrorist: Monglong

                          

                 

                      Eno. Hokup

                                

                                By:Atono Tsükrü Kense 

“I am hurt.....I can’t talk.....I will talk to you later,” were the last words Monglong heard from her husband Hokup following her frantic calls and messages on December 4. 

Thirty-year-old Monglong and Hokup were married on November 25, 2021, only ten days before Hokup was killed by the bullets of the 21 Para Special Force based in Assam on the night of December 4, at Oting under Mon district. Her husband, the youngest in his family, was just 37.

Speaking to The Morung Express, Monglong, the young grieving widow of Hokup was inconsolable as she narrated her story—one of a young married couple whose lives and dreams have been shattered by the bullets of ‘protectors,’ before it even started, without even a chance to say goodbye.

My husband was not a terrorist
“I want to let the world know that my husband was neither a terrorist nor a militant,” said Monglong who described her late husband as a simple, humble and God-fearing man.

“If they killed my husband because he was, that is another story, but my husband was not,” she iterated.

She said her husband was very active in church activities and was also the finance secretary of the Church 75th year jubilee committee. 

Hokup was not someone who can hurt anyone, but a cheerful man who was always ready to help the Church and its ministries, and others alike, she narrated. 

How they met:Recalling how she met her husband, Monglong who is from another village, has been staying at Oting village because of her ministry in the Church, and they met through the youth ministry.

“Being from poor economic background, both of us have been saving our earnings and we got married on November 25,” said Monglong.

One sad aspect of their married lives is that they have been living separately even though they were married because of their obligations to their respective works. It was learnt that she has been staying in the Church quarter, while her husband stayed with one of his brothers and went to work in the mines daily.

“We have plans to spend Christmas together since we couldn’t spend much time together after our marriage. We were planning to construct a small house to live together in the coming year, through our savings,” said Monglong sobbing uncontrollably.

“We are not much educated and we are poor, but my husband loved me so much, and despite opposition from my family I decided to settle with him, not caring if we have anything to eat or not because we really cared for each other,” said Monglong who has dedicated her life to Church ministry.

My whole world just shut down:

“I feel like my whole life has been snatched away from me, and my whole world just shut down,” said Monlong recalling how her husband’s life has been cut short too soon.

On that night of December 4 after hearing a rumour of a ‘war in her husband’s work place’ Monglong recounted that she frantically placed several calls and messages, all of which went unanswered. 

 “Finally, one of his friends answered my call and said my husband has been shot by the army. But he assured me not to worry and disconnected the phone,” recalled Monglong. This information made her restless and worried, so she called back, but it was unanswered.

Unrelenting, she called again and this time, the call was answered by Hokup’s friend who informed her that they were taking him to the hospital and that he would be alright. Desperate to hear his voice and to confirm he was okay, she requested to speak to her husband. “I am hurt. I can’t talk. I will talk to you later,” Hokup told her and the line went dead.

“I thought he would be alright since he was being taken to the hospital and I said a prayer and went to bed,” said Monglong.

“In the morning our deacons came to my quarter saying we will go for a prayer where my husband lived with his brother and as I came out they started crying,” recalled Monglong. Alarmed by their reaction, she started to question them: “What’s wrong? Has something happened to my husband?”

Their response shattered her world, she said. “I couldn’t believe. I felt numb. I couldn’t say anything. I couldn’t cry because I could not process and understand what was actually going on around me.”

I leave it to God to judge;

On the action of security personnel killing her husband and many other innocent civilians, Monglong said, “we have been fasting and praying for undergrounds, for the army for peace and tranquillity in the society.”

Stating that she was deeply hurt, she said, “I feel I am betrayed by the Army, whom we look upon as our protector. I feel betrayed for the prayers I have said for them.”

But despite the hurt and the uncertain future, Monglong with full of grace and humility said, “it is not upto me to seek any revenge. As a Christian, and a woman committed to Christ’s ministry, I leave it to God to be the ultimate judge as God has told us never to seek revenge.”

(Source: TheMorungExpress)

Oting Mon 4th Dec

Oting, Mon killing

On the 4th December 2021( last Saturday), fifteen(15) innocent Naga daily wage-earners of Oting village, Mon District were killed by the 21st Para Special Forces/Para Commandos(SF) under the command of its Major.  Indian Army logic use to give such soldiers "bravery/gallantry Awards", instead of punishments.

It vividly recalls and reminds us of the bitter memories, tears and heart-rending stories of those past years and killings of more than 3.5 lakhs unarmed innocent Nagas, and merciless rapings of Naga women during the period 1953-1975 under the Armed Forces Special Power Act(AFSPA) promulgated on the 22nd May 1958 - which was also an Act of raping of Naga women.

AFSPA is an extreme military Martial-law, an alien law borrowed by the freed-slaves from their Master and imposed on the Nagas by the first PM of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. This Act was put above every other law, above all courts and above the Indian Constitution. A constable can kill three(3) persons without question. Local, National or International Media were completely banned to enter the Naga Hills to give report.

Lakhs of unarmed innocent Nagas were killed since then by the mighty Indian military brute forces in the same manner as it happened on last Saturday - on 4th December 2021, but unknown to the outside world. AFSPA is military dictatorship and severe military rule running non-stop for sixty three(63) years now in Nagaland which has become the longest and cruellest Indian military rule in the world-history. The Nagas groans on their bent-backs under this longest military Martial rule till date. The nightmare exists and it haunts us all till today.

Both India and Burma must know one truth worth-remembering with gratefulness to the Nagas. It was true that both India and Burma were big and bulky nations; but badly defeated, enslaved and ruled people for hundreds of years by the British - a country only a size of Uttar Pradesh(U.P.).

During WW2 in 1944, Nagas fought very hard for you here at Kohima in Nagaland, and liberated both India and Burma from your long shameful slavery under British colonialism. And also freed both India and Burma from quite possible Japanese Imperialism again after such long British colonialism, if not the Nagas fought in favour of the Allied Forces. If not the Nagas fought for you here at Kohima, Nagaland, where did you fight your gun-battles for your freedom?  It is the Nagas who fought hard the Japanese Imperial Army, beaten them back, gave you; your liberation, your freedom and your independences.

India and Burma owe a great deal of indebtedness to the Nagas. These are real histories. How can you be so ungrateful to the Nagas?  Instead of rewarding and loving the Nagas, how long will you go on killing the Nagas?

You tried to divide Nagas into pieces, and make Nagaland a small nation and country, but Nagas know who who are the Nagas, altogether they are one of the biggest single race on the present globe, and they are very confident people.

No nation could bear the heavy burden the Nagas have been undergoing through all these many years. Indian soldiers have been killing the Nagas in a land where the Nagas saved and freed India. India will fall for killing the innocent Nagas, a chosen nation of God. Sad to recollect that Jawaharlal Nehru himself, his only begotten daughter Mrs. Indira Gandhi, his two grandsons: Sanjay Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi - all had ended in most horrifying deaths.

By:   Zapra Chakhesang,
Kohima.

(Share this truth to all the leaders of both India and Burma and to the world).

Narcotics seized

 Narcotics substance worth ₹.500 cr seized

(Tengnoupal Police and 43 Assam Rifles seizing humongous quantity of illegal narcotics substances worth ₹.500 Crore) 

HungHao

Dec' 7,2021:  ON receiving inputs from reliable sources, the combined team of Tengnoupal Police and 43 AR had arrested one Myanmar national with 220 soap cases of suspected heroin and upon his revelation, a warehouse was raided and seized 3716 soap cases of suspected heroin and 152 packets of suspected crystal meth (methamphetamine) drugs. 

This is one of the biggest seizure of drugs under the ‘War on Drugs’ initiative of the State Govt.



Nagaland Oting toll rose to 19

 

With this, the toll in Nagaland rose to 19, according to Rajya Sabha MP KG Kenye.

(KG Kenye is a Rajya Sabha member from Nagaland and advisor to the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio)

HungHao
Dec' 7,2021:   EARLIER on 4 December, a contingent of the Indian Army's 21 Para Special Forces killed six civilians and injured two others - all residents of Oting village in the state's Mon district while they were returning home in a pick-up van after working at a coal mine.

According to official sources, the security forces apparently 'mistook' them for militants.

According to a statement issued by Dimapur-based 3 Corps of the army, the unit was on a counter-insurgency operation in the area following a tip-off on the likely movement of militants belonging to the NSCN (Khaplang).

Later, seven other civilians died after they were shot by that unit at Oting a little after the first incident. Two persons succumbed to their injuries from that shooting on 5 December.

*What exactly happened in Nagaland? Different versions of civilian killings throws up more questions than answers*

The Nagaland Cabinet called for an 'urgent meeting' on Tuesday in which it passed two key decisions.

First, the Nagaland government will write to the Centre calling for a repeal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). The second decision taken was to call off the Hornbill Festival, which sees tourists from all over the world visit the state.

On Monday, Nagaland Chief Minister attended the funeral of the 14 civilians killed by the security forces where he made the demand to repeal AFSPA from Nagaland.

"India is the largest democracy and this is a draconian law so, it should be removed from our country. There are many laws that can be handled but this law (AFSPA) has blackened the image of our country," said Rio.

Meanwhile, a joint report by the state's Director General of Police (DGP) T John Longkumer and Commissioner Rovilatuo Mor has said that the army made no attempt to ascertain the identity of the civilians returning from work on a pick-up truck before shooting them in Nagaland's Mon district on Saturday.

Quoting eyewitnesses, the two top officials have said villagers found the Army's special forces trying to "hide" the bodies of six people by wrapping and loading them on a pick-up van with the intention of taking them to their base camp.

The Nagaland Police on its own filed an FIR against the 21st Para Special Force of the Army on Monday. The case was registered under Sections 302/307/34 of the IPC, relating to murder, attempt to murder and criminal act committed by several persons in furtherance of the common intention of all.

"Hence, it is obvious that the intention of security forces is to murder and injure civilians,the FIR added, urging authorities to take necessary action against the culprits.

(With inputs from agencies)


Nagaland police rejects armys claim

Nagaland Police rejects army’s claim of credible intelligence behind Oting firing, says troops fired without establishing facts

(The DGP and Commissioner, who have been camping in Mon since December 6, in the detailed report, divulged details of the December 4 Oting firing incident, and the subsequent violent clashes following the ambush in Nagaland’s Mon town on December 6) 

HungHao

Nagaland Dec' 6,2021:  NAGALAND  director general of police (DGP) John Longkumar and commissioner Rovilauo Mor, in their ground report on Oting incident filed before the state government on December 6, said that “Troops of 21 Assam Rifles indiscriminately fired on the coal miners at random, apparently without any attempt for identification.” 

The DGP and Commissioner, who have been camping in Mon since December 6, in the detailed report, divulged details of the December 4 Oting firing incident, and the subsequent violent clashes following the ambush in Nagaland’s Mon town on December 6.

The report informed that the incident occurred around 4:10 pm on Saturday (December 4) where eight coal miners returning home in a Mahindra Pickup truck were ambushed.

“They were ambushed and killed by security forces (reportedly, 21 Para Special Force based in Assam) at random, apparently without any attempt for identification,” the report stated.

According to the report, the ones killed were unarmed civilians working at a coal mine in Tiru valley, who were travelling in an open Mahindra Pickup truck, but were fired upon and six of them were killed on the spot and two critically injured.

The villagers on hearing the gunshots went to the spot with apprehension as the individuals did not return home from work, the report revealed.

“When the villagers reached the spot, the security personnel were trying to hide the bodies of the six villagers by wrapping and loading them in a Tata Mobile truck apparently with the intention of taking the bodies to their base camp,” the report stated further.

“On finding the bodies in the Tata Mobile, under a tarpaulin, violence broke out between the villagers and the security personnel,” as a result, the irate villagers burnt three vehicles belonging to the security personnel, and in the melee, the troops again opened fire on the villagers which led to the death of seven more villagers, it said.

The report also mentioned, “Eyewitnesses have confirmed that the security forces opened fire indiscriminately as they fled from the scene towards Assam side.”

On the secured crime site, there are presently one Mahindra pickup in which the civilians were ambushed; one burnt Scorpio; a burnt Bolero; a burnt Tata Winger; and a damaged Tata Mobile, according to the findings.

The report further informed that 13 civilians were killed on December 4 while 14 were seriously injured. Eight civilians suffered minor injuries.

Meanwhile, the Army in a statement issued from Delhi on December 6 claimed that the security forces had planned the ‘specific operation' based on ‘credible intelligence about the likely movement of insurgents in the area. 



Mnp High Court

Manipur High Court grants anticipatory bail to former CM Okram Ibobi in money laundering case of ED

(The money laundering case was registered by the Guwahati Zonal Office of the Enforcement Directorate on March 16, 2020 based on FIR file by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Police Station, Manipur in 2018) 

HungHao

UKHRU, 30 Nov 2021: MANIPUR

High Court Chief Justice Sanjay Kumar on Tuesday granted anticipatory bail to former Manipur chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, in connection with money laundering case registered by the Enforcement Directorate.

The case was registered by the Guwahati Zonal Office of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 16, 2020 based on FIR file by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Police Station, Manipur in 2018. The FIR pertained to offences under Sections 420 and 120-B IPC along with Section 13(2) read with Section 13(1) (d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

The alleged offences related to award of certain works by Loktak Development Authority, of which the petitioner was the chairman at the relevant point of time. The works was stated to have been done in violation of the prescribed norms resulting in wrongful financial loss to the Government and the exchequer.

The fresh case was registered by the ED in 2020 on the ground that the information or documents pertained to the Vigilance’s FIR case against accused persons, including Ibobi had generated and laundered proceeds of crime and a prima-facie case of money laundering, under Section 3 of the Act of 2002, was made out.

The HC granted anticipatory bail to the petitioner in connection with the case on August 26, 2019. With the bail order having attained its finality, Ibobi sought similar relief in connection with the case.

In the course of the hearing, the court noted that the petitioner has also been granted anticipatory bail in relation to the said FIR in August 2019. Documentary evidence, which would be the fulcrum of the case, having already been secured and given the passage of time since registration of the earlier case, there is no “manifest risk” of the petitioner tampering with evidence or witnesses at this late stage.

Moreover, the court stated that it finds no tangible reason to believe that the “petitioner would abscond or try to evade the law and, in any event, the same can be guarded against by imposing restrictions”.

The ED, Sub-Zonal Office, Imphal submitted an affidavit of objection that his office would require custodial interrogation to record statements and provide evidence. Moreover, the ED expressed apprehension that the petitioner would tamper with evidence, witnesses and might attempt to dispose of the proceeds of crime, citing the position of Ibobi, who has firm root in the society being undisputed. The court noted that the present case originated from the FIR case of 2018 and the evidence seized in connection therewith is already in the custody of the authorities.

The petitioner has also been granted anticipatory bail in relation to the said FIR in August, 2019. Documentary evidence, which would be the fulcrum of the case, having already been secured and given the passage of time since registration of the earlier case, there is no manifest risk of the petitioner tampering with evidence or witnesses at this late stage.

Further, his status and firm roots in society being undisputed, the petitioner is not shown to be a flight-risk. The court finds no tangible reason to believe that he would abscond or try to evade the law and, in any event, the same can be guarded against by imposing restrictions. Further, as he has presented himself willingly before the ED after receiving the summons.

As such, the HC opined that the court does not find any grounds warranting custodial interrogation at this stage in relation to events that took place long ago and granted the bail.

However, the HC allowed the bail petition with conditions that the petitioner should execute a personal bond for a sum of `1 lakh (Rupees One Lakh) only and shall also furnish two sureties for a like sum each to the satisfaction of the Assistant Director, Sub-Zonal Office of the Enforcement Directorate at Imphal, Manipur. The petitioner should continue to co-operate with the investigation by presenting himself for interrogation as and when required and shall produce documents in his possession, if any, as and when required by the Enforcement Directorate.

In the event, if the petitioner fails to do so, the Enforcement Directorate would be at liberty to approach the court and seek cancellation of the order. The petitioner should not tamper with the evidence in any manner or seek to influence any witness; be it by threat, intimidation or by inducement or promise. The petitioner should not leave the country without the permission of the Enforcement Directorate. He should deposit his Passport with the Assistant Director, Sub-Zonal Office of the Enforcement Directorate, Imphal, Manipur, within two days from the date of receipt of a copy of the order.

(Source: IFP) 



Omicron Variant

Omicron Variant: New guidelines in place for international passengers entering Manipur

(Manipur Health director Dr K Rajo informed that as many as eight travellers from four countries “at risks” had entered the state till Tuesday) 

HungHao

IMPHAL,Nov'1,2021 : MANIPUR  Health director Dr K Rajo said a new protocol will be in place for international arrival at the Imphal airport from Wednesday midnight as a preventive measure in view of the growing concern over Omicron globally.

He was speaking to the media during the state-level press briefing on 'COVID-19pandemic' at RD Wing, Imphal West.

The director informed that as many as eight travellers from four countries “at risks” had entered the state till Tuesday. Fortunately, all of them tested negative, he said, adding that they are in home quarantine.

Rajo said the infrastructure of the healthcare facilities in the state has been upgraded at the maximum possible extent, with the initiative of both the state and central government.

As such, the public need not panic given all the preventive measures taken up by the state to face any eventuality, he added.

Elaborating on the new guidelines, state surveillance officer Dr Somorjit said travellers should submit their travel history of the last 14 days.

Somorjit said travellers will be tested again on arrival at the airport in addition to mandatory production of Covid negative testing report (by RTPCR) conducted within 72 hours prior to taking the journey.

The person will be allowed to exit the airport only after testing negative and they will be tested again after eight days, he added. 

He further informed that 14 days of home quarantine is compulsory for all travellers even if they tested negative.

By chance, if a traveller is tested positive, the person will be kept in a special isolation unit and a sample will be sent for genome sequencing, added the surveillance officer.

State immunisation officer Dr Manihar appealed to all the eligible public to get fully vaccinated asserting it the best preventive measure as of now. 

He also announced that the health department is ready to give the service of doorstep vaccination if required. 

The total fatalities of COVID in November are 56, of which 50 are unvaccinated, one was fully vaccinated and the remaining five were vaccinated with the first dose. 

It has been informed that the state has provided Rs 50 lakh each to the kins of three healthcare workers who succumbed to Covid-19 in the line of duty.

(Source: DIpR) 



'ME' Know your candidate released

Mission Ukhrul Know your candidate booklet of Ram Muivah released with much fan fare

( I have a sesnse of vision to transform Ukhrul  as the Jerusalem of Manipur: Ram Muivah) 

Qr. Ram Muivah IAS (Retd.) 

HungHao

UKHRUl, Nov'23, 2021:  A WELL knitted book  entitled, " Mission Ukhrul" Know your candidate of Ram (Ramnganing) Muivah was released at 25° degree North Hotel Phungreitang, Ukhrul here on Tuesday.

Father Gabriel, Parish priest of Sacred Heart Hungpung officially released the booklet with prayerful praise. 

Speaking at the launching event of "Know Your Candidate" retired North East Council Secretary, Ramnganing Muivah said that his main purpose to contest in the coming state general election is to serve the people. 

Elaborating on his 'Mission Ukhrul and Know Your Candidate'  objective, Ram Muivah said, "Elders know me however as many youngsters donot know know me 'Know Your Candidate' was introduced in the public domain with the sole intent to know each other and build a better relationship with the youths, and not to blow my own triumphant and gain benefits for myself."

I want to dedicate the rest of my life for the people, he said while unveiling his Mission Ukhrul objective, he said, "My mission is to make Ukhrul the Jerusalem of Manipur. I want to dedicate the rest of my life for the people." 

To realise the Mission Ukhrul dream, education is the key because it is the anti-dote to poverty. Quality school should be opened in every nook and corner of Ukhrul district. 

The intending NPF candidate of 44- Ukhrul, Ram Muivah also call for promotion of startup and entrepreneur ship. "There are many educated youths in the district but they don't have the opportunity. Startup is the key." 

Making Ukhrul as India's tourism destination could bring rich dividends for the people especially the youths as it would open floodgates of employment and usher revenue for the people thereby improving the livelihoods of the people. 

He further said that Ukhrul which is home to myriads of flora and fauna and many enchanting places could emerge as the tourists destination of India. 

To make and develop Ukhrul a "smart city" is also my mission. 

The retired NEC secretary who had served as government servant for 35 years in various capacities as Additional Chief Secretary of Manipur, Principal Secretary, Joint Secretary and Chief Vigilance Officer,  Director and Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Urban Development said that womenfolk should be empower. "Being a patriarchal society, there are many areas where we look down on women. This mindset needs to be changed in keeping with the change."

Commenting on the HAC recommended ADC Bill 2021, Ram said that meaningful autonomy should be granted to the tribals of Manipur as it is their legitimate rights guaranteed under the constitution of India. "Whoever got elected in the coming state election should work for implementation of the same." 

Father Gabriel

He further stated that district council should be strengthen. 

The retired IAS, Ram Muivah while stressing on the essence of media pitch for strong media saying that the impartial media could bring better governance. Media as a watch dog and mirror of society could put a check on corruption and ensure accountability.

Manager of the 'Aja Daily'  a Tangkhul daily news while wishing the intending NPF candidate his best wishes said that Ram Muivah has contributed much for the development of the community. "Among the bureaucrats of the community, the works he had taken up is quite visible."

The programme was attended by UADC Caretaker chairman Dr. Yaronsho Ngalung, Qr. Wungnaoyo Shimzingwo Hunphun Village authority members, Dr.Felix, renown Tangkhul writer Chihanpam Sareo,  and well wishers.

Tashar Chanhong meet

 

Interactive meeting with Qr. Ram Muivah, IAS(Retd.) former NEC secretary held at Tashar & Chanhong village

(Deliver more than the promise that is Tangkhul traditional: Ram Muivah) 

HungHao

UKHRUL, Nov'22, 2021:   Naga People's Front(NPF) intending candidate for Ukhrul 44-Assembly Constituency Qr. Ram (Ramnganing) Muivah had a
Marathon interactive meeting session with Tushar and Canhong village on Monday.

I thought of having a low profile and small interactive meeting with the village authority but seeing the huge turn up and arrangements from the village concerns made me sartled and I am hubled profoundly said Ram Muivah.

Ram further stated that after my retirement from NEC many offered for job in centre and abroad but i honestly decline because I have a vision to serve the people, a mission to transform Ukhrul. Yes, God is merciful enought to bless me more than i deserve and now I want to give back my gratitude to the Almighty God by serving the people under any circumstances, he adds.

'Deliver more than promise', give more than what it deserve that what exactly our Tangkhul forefathers traditional and customeries practice and this is where I want to enlighten and amplifies such a glorious past to present, Muivah expound.

Amongst the many speeches made from the gathering the headman of Tushar and Chanhong express the exitment of former Ukhrul DC way back in 1991-93(Ram Muivah) then and now to become a people's representative as one of the fitest Candide amongst the Tangkhul and blessed him on his endeavor.

At Tushar village ground the program was attented by headman and his village authority, Pastors and deacons, St. Paul Ceathetist, Tashar khararlong, Tashar Shanaolong, Tashar katamnao long, MNREGS committee, Tahar NPF unit, senior Congress party workers now merged to Ram Muivah support.

At Chanhong village, village headman and village authority, katamnao long, shanaolong.

Chanhong village headman praise that he is sure that the anointed leader has finally emerge our long awaited leader has come and he expressed his gratification to Ram Muivah openly in front of the  public gathering.

Chanhong vill

During the program around 120  health cards were distributed at Tushar villagers initiated by 'Mission Ukhrul' team.

Zalengpung Consultative meet

Consultative meeting held at Zalengpung area ADC constituency

( Booklet,  Mission Ukhrul 'Know your candidate'  released; and a blessing shower to Ram Muivah) 

HungHao

UKHRUL, Nov'18, 2021:  A  CONSULTATIVE meeting at Zalengpung areas Autonomous District Council(ADC) constituency was held at Zalengpung village on Thursday. 

A booklet name "Mission Ukhrul" 'Know your candidate' translated to Thatou-Kuki dialect of Ram (Ramnganing) Muivah Retd. IAS, former NEC secretary and published by The Aja daily team was released by  Rev. Dr. Setminlen Khongsai Pastor KBC.

Nevertheless, a shower of blessing  was besides, bestowed to Ram Muivah by the 12 Kuki headman's of the areas in front of all the congregation. 

The Zalengpung headman also declared that his village will vote for Ram Muivah(Ramganing). 

Pu Thangboi Haokip  president NPF(Kangopokpi) from Saikul under Kangopokpi district exhorted that to prepare the contributions of representatives of major areas of the constituencies and stakeholders in the region to global processes such as discussion is the need of an hour and today Ram Muivah came at the right time. And now we need to identify opportunities to enhance the participation of tribal groups and stakeholders in policy-making processes at different levels, he adds. 

Haokip further stated that NPF is the only right party to stand for the rights of the tribal people of Manipur so despite he being a Haokip Kuki he joined NPF willingly without any hesitation and ask Tangkhuls bretheren  to discart any other so called political parties to save the tribal rights and identity and alledged those Tangkhul people who works for other political parties as selling ones own right and identity who can not protect himself . 

Ramnganing on his usual humble but calm speech said 'forgive and forget' our previous misdeeds is the best medicine to bring peace,harmoney and development in all front, so let let's join our hands together to stand firmly and pave opportunity to foster dialogue of love and respect as marching forward with unity is the only means to uplift our livelihood in the region, Ram said. 

Ram further said you can choose a friend from Mumbai, Delhi or where ever you like but you cannot choose your neighbour the neighbor comes naturally and the Biblical teaching to love your neighbour is paramount. So in order to live in peace we need each other cooperation and support. 

Ram Muivah IAS, Retd.and former NEC secretary is an intending NPF candidate of Ukhrul central 44- AC. 

Turner Raihing president Tangkhul valley association from Wunghon village and Ex- MLA candidate  also exhorted the gatering to support Ram Muivah as he is an anointed leader of our present geration, he adds. 

7th Zalengpung ADC areas under Ukhrul 44-AC active social worker Pu.Arun of Maokot Chafu  vocally disown the local MLA for lackadaisical attitude toward his villages saying that the areas is one of the poorer of the porest village of Ukhrul district but even our basic requirements are yet to provide despite the MLA tall promise.So he appeal  Ram Muivah to remember them when elected.

Amongst other the program was attented by Songphel village headman -  Pu. Kamthang; Phashong Village headman -  Pu. Lunthang;  Molnom village headman Pu.Kutpao;  Sangkai headman- Pu. Paomang;  Zanlengpung headman-  Pu. Thanglal;  Mangkot village headman- Pu. Lunmingthang and many rank and files of NPF party workers from Ukhrul and 12 village chiefs of the areas. 

Manipur Merger agreement

 Manipur independence and Merger Agreement 1949.

(India got independence on 15th August 1947 from British colonial rule) 

HungHao

MANIPUR being a part of British India too got freedom since  then. The then political agent of Manipur Mr Stewart wrote a letter to Maharaj Bodhachandra stating that Maharaj should come at the residency in the mid night of August 14/15, 1947. First Maharaj Bodhachandra thought that Stewart should come to the palace as the later was a lower rank. Maharaj Bodhachandra soon realized that Stewart was a representative of British crown. On a stipulated time, Maharaj Bodhachandra, private secretary Gourahari and ADC Anandmohan came to the residency. Political agent Stewart warmly welcomed them. They entered inside the bungalow. Stewart was sitting facing east while Bodhachandra sitting in opposite direction. Both private secretary and ADC were sitting behind the Maharaj. The moment was so still. At 12 midnight they stood up. Then Stewart said that the British rule over Manipur will lapse from today.The state administration is handed over to you. Maharaj Bodhachandra and Stewart shake hands. Next moment the duo said good morning, good morning. Then Maharaj Bodhachandra, private secretary and ADC left residency for palace. Since that moment Manipur attained freedom.

Viceroy Mount Batton summoned a meeting of all princely states of British India on July 25,1947.He told  that all the princely states should get freedom after the British left. He announced that the British paramountcy will divide the Indian sub continent into two separate dominions viz dominion of India and dominion of Pakistan. He advised that each princely state had to join in either India or Pakistan for their betterment. The princely states must handover their authority of external affairs, defense and communication to the authority of India or Pakistan, he reiterated. Believing this Maharaj Bodhachandra signed the Instrument of accession and stand still agreement on August 11,1947 at Imphal.

In the morning of 14 August 1947, Maharaj Bodhachandra entrusted his brother Maharaj Kumar Priyobrata to form an interim council, a provisional government. Bodhachandra appointed Maharaj Kumar Priyobrata as chief minister. In the interim council there were seven council of ministers including chief minister. Other ministers were Major Bob Khatting minister in charge hills administration and Manipur rifles, Krishna Mohan finance, RK Bhubansana revenue, Moulavi Basiruddin Ahmed medical, PWD and jail, K Gouro Singh education and local self government and TC Tiankham forest and agriculture. Later on the Manipur state Constitution act 1947 was constituted. Under this Constitution, the first assembly election of Manipur was held in June July 1948. The election was based on universal adult franchise. Total number of seats was53. 30seats from valley, 18 seats from hills, 3 seats from Muhammadans and 2 nominee of Maharaj Bodhachandrawith the Maharaj being head of the Constitution. MK Priyobrata and E Nilakanta were the two nominees. Hijam Erabot won from Utlou A/C.

Md Alimuddin, Laishram Achou, Sekmai Chaoba,, Moirang Koireng, Elangbam Tompok, S Somerendra, RK Bhubansana, Dr Leiren, Giri, Major Bob Khattingetc were worth mentioning elected persons. Manipur state Congress won only 14seats and failed to form government. A coalition government of Praja Shanti supported by 12 independent MLAs was installed. MK Priyobrata was sworn in as chief minister by Maharaj Bodhachandra. Six other ministers were also sworn in. S Somerendra was the opposition leader in the assembly. The term of the assembly was three years. Manipur state Congress was so disappointed after the election. The first assembly session was held on 18 October 1948 at Darbar Hall, palace. Maharaj Bodhachandra inaugurated the session by giving speeches.After election there was  turmoil , unrest in the society despite a responsible government was in place.The political agitations influenced by the Congress movements in India spread to Manipur and  they were demanding a responsible government in the state. Among the politicians there were quarreling, allegations, claimsand counter claims.Tompok Congress agitated demanding formation of Purbanchal Pradesh. Tomal congress opined that the sorrow of Manipur will be resolved if it joins in Purbanchal Pradesh. Keeping this in mind he and his followers went to Assam and agitated demanding Purbanchal Pradesh. At that time there was a rumour of formation of Purbanchal Pradesh including Manipur, Lushai hills, North cachar hills, Jaintia hills whose capital would be at Shillong. Jana NetaHijamErabot strongly objected to the proposal of formation of Purbanchal Pradesh. At that time he was an MLA. He organized a public meeting at MDU Hall on 21 September 1948. A crowd from Lamlai side came to participate the meeting. A team of Manipur police stopped the rally at Pungdongbam. Confrontation between the police and the crowd was occurred. A sub inspector Naranbabu was killed in the incident. Consequently the government ordered immediate arrest of Erabot. On hearing this information, Erabot quickly   ran away from meeting. Government proclaimed himas wanted. From that incident Erabot became underground for ever. Eventually he died on 26 September 1951 at Tangbo hill Burma.

At this juncture the political leaders of India were thinking of how to annex Manipur in Indian Union. The Assam governor Sir Akbar Haidari sent Deveshor Sharma, a politician of Assam Congress to Manipur to observe the political loophole of Manipur as a dominion agent. He frequently intervened in the political  affairs of Manipur. After that the leaders of Delhi after thorough discussion sent a person called Rawal Amar Singh giving a post Dewan in place of agent to Manipur. After independence the political status  of Maharaj Bodhachandra was only in namesake. Just only  as head of the Constitution. The dewan did many works in place of Maharaj. This led Maharaj Bodhachandra disappointed. This was pre plan of Delhi. It may be mentioned here that there was a plan of Sardar Patel, then deputy prime minister to form a union of India by annexing all princely states within three years.

The Assam governor Sri Prakash officially came in Manipur and talked with Maharaj Bodhachandra about the annexation of Manipur to India. However, Maharaj Bodhachandra didn’t give final decision regarding the annexation of Manipur. He thought that he should go to Shillong to meet governor Prakash to restrain the over smart nature of Dewan Amar Singh and to discuss some political issues. Bodhachandra sent a telegram to governor Prakash stating that he would come at Shillong in the first week of September 1949. On hearing this information governor Prakash and his advisor Rustumji  were full of joy. Both of them were having headache to think how to annex Manipur in India. At this time they have a golden chance to execute the plan. Assam governor Prakash immediately rushed to Delhi to meet the political leaders of India to discuss about Manipur. Then he went to Bombay to meet Sardar Patel to tell about the Manipur. Sardar Patel asked, Is there not a single brigadier of Indian Army at your Shillong? Prakash understood that he was given permission to force Maharaj Bodhachandra if the later doesn’t sign the merger agreement.

Maharaj Bodhachandra left Imphal for Shillong on 16 September 1949. Total number of persons in the team including private secretary Gourahari and ADC Anand Mohan were 15. They were traveling on vehicles. Next day , they reached Shillong in the evening and halted at Red Lance’s Shillong. On 18 September 1949 at around 11am Maharaj Bodhachandra along with private secretary Gourahari and ADC Anand Mohan went to government house Raj Bhawan to meet governor Prakash. They were traveling on vehicle. They saw a vehicle of Indian CID chasing them. Soon they came to Know that the campus of Raj Bhawan was security tied. Governor Prakash warmly welcomed Maharaj Bodhachandra. Then governor Prakash took an envelope from his private secretary TS Krishna Murti and opened it. Governor Prakash gave the documents to Maharaj Bodhachandra and said, please sign it. He told that the government of India has decided to annex Manipur state in dominion of India. It is for betterment of Manipur state.

Maharaj Bodhachandra flashed his eyes and got disappointed. He replied that he should consult the council of ministers and the assembly as the matter was a state concern. So I could not sign it. All the efforts of governor Prakash were in vain. Governor’s advisor Rustumji threatened Maharaj Bodhachandra by saying that Maharaj could not leave Shillong unless he signs the merger agreement. Governor Prakash said Rustumji to keep quite. Then governor Prakash said Maharaj Bodhachandra that the sign will be done tomorrow at the same room. Maharaj Bodhachandra returned to Red Lance’s. On that day the Indian CID personnel surrounded the Red Lance’s. Bodhachandra didn’t come to government house on 19 September 1949. Letters were sent to both sides. Maharaj Bodhachandra was like a house arrested person in Red Lance’s. He may be compared with the lion caught in a trap. He was helpless there. At last he decided to sign the merger agreement. On 21 September 1949 Maharaj Bodhachandra, private secretary Gourahari and ADC Anand Mohan went to government house and formally signed the Manipur merger agreement. On 15 October 1949 the government of India officially announced that Manipur had become a part of India.

(By; Milan Luwang) 



3 Farm laws to be repealed

 Three farms laws to be repealed: PM Narendra Modi

(Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced the government’s decision to repeal the contentious three farm laws, which was considered “anti-farmers” by the farmers in India) 

HungHao

Nov. 19, 2021:PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced the government’s decision to repeal the contentious three farm laws, which was considered “anti-farmers” by the farmers in India.

In his address to the nation on the occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Modi said the three farm laws will be repealed in the coming Winter session of Parliament.

"Today I have come to tell you, the whole country, that we have decided to withdraw all three agricultural laws. In the Parliament session starting later this month, we will complete the constitutional process to repeal these three agricultural laws,” Modi said.

The prime minister said that the three farm laws were brought about in the effort to improve the condition of the farmers, specially small farmers, that they should get the right price for their produce and maximum options to sell the produce. He said that despite all efforts made, the farmers could not be convinced of the benefits of the three farm laws that could empower them.

The farmers across the country had been strongly condemning and protesting against the three farm laws of 2020 namely - the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020, Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance, Farm Services Act, 2020, and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020. Parliament passed the three acts in September 2020 and recieved the presidential sign on September 27, 2020.

“I have seen the challenges of the farmers very closely in my five decades of public life, that is why, when I was given the opportunity to serve the country as Prime Minister in 2014, we gave the highest priority to agriculture development and farmers welfare,” he said.

The prime minister said that four prong measures of seeds, insurance, market and savings were taken to ameliorate the conditions of farmers.  Along with good quality seeds, the government also connected the farmers with facilities like neem coated urea, soil health card and micro irrigation, he said.

Pointing out that many initiatives have been taken for the farmers to get the right price for their produce in return for their hard work, he said the country has strengthened its rural market infrastructure.

“We not only increased the MSP, but also created a record number of government procurement centers. The procurement of the produce made by our government has broken the records of the last several decades,” he said.

In the spirit of holy Gurupurab, Modi said, "Today is not the day for blaming anyone and rededicated himself to working for the welfare of the farmers".

Modi then announced the formation of a committee to promote zero budgeting based agriculture, to change crop pattern as per the changing needs of the country and to make MSP more effective and transparent. The committee will have representatives of the central government, state governments, farmers, agricultural scientists, and agricultural economists, he said.

Meanwhile, several farmers' groups welcomed the government’s decision to repeal the three farm laws. Welcoming the announcement, the largest protesting farmers group, Bharatiyan Kisan Union's (BKU) Ugrahan faction, said the farmers’ unions in the country will meet and decide on the further course of action, according to reports.

(Source:Agency) 



ADC Bill 24 hr shutdown

 ADC Bill 2021: 24-hour shutdown, indefinite economic blockade imposed in hill districts

(Indefinite economic blockade to be held along the National Highways in the state from Monday) 

HungHao

 Nov'19, 2021: TRIBLE student bodies, namely ATSUM, ANSAM, KSO general headquarters and ATSUM Federating Units on Friday announced to go ahead with the scheduled 24-hour total shutdown and the indefinite economic blockade along the National Highways in the state from Monday.   

A release issued by ATSUM information and publicity secretary Khaiminlen Doungel stated that on receipt of the invitation from the state government, an official discussion between the state government and the mentioned student organisations was held on Friday at Chief Minister's Office in the presence of the chief minister to discuss the HAC recommended ‘Manipur (Hill Areas) ADC Bill 2021.’

Since both the parties could not reach any agreeable solution in their positions, the announced agitations will go ahead as scheduled, it stated. 

It further stated that the relentless efforts of the state government “to misguide the public by constantly claiming that the Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Councils Act 1971 is a Parliament Act and cannot be repealed by the state Legislative Assembly” is unfortunate.

The Manipur Gazette (Extraordinary) published by the Secretariat: Law and Legislative Affairs, Government of Manipur dated October 27, 2008 clearly states that the Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Councils Act, 1971 has continued to be in force in the state of Manipur with necessary adaptations under the Manipur (Adaptation of Laws) Order, 1972, it stated.  

Accordingly, the Manipur Legislative Assembly had repealed the Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Councils Act, 1971 in the year 2000 by enacting the Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Councils Act, 2000 ( Manipur Act No. 11 of 2000), it further stated.  

Corresponding upon the precedent of the Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Councils Act 1971 being repealed in the year 2000 and by the rule of law, the state government should stop misleading the public immediately and convene Special Legislative Assembly to table the HAC recommended ‘Manipur (Hill Areas) ADC Bill 2021’, it continued.

Every right thinking populace of the state are appealed to support the movement which aims to consolidate fraternity among all communities of the state, it added.

JTSA not to endorse ATSUM’s 24-hours total shutdown

Meanwhile, the Joint Tribe Students’ Association (JTSA), a conglomerate of students' bodies consisting of All Inpui Students Union (AISU), Liangmai Naga Katimai Ruangdi (LNKR), Rongmei Naga Students Organization Manipur (RNSOM) and Zeme Students Organizations Manipur (ZSOM) has resolved not to endorsed the 24-hour total shutdown called by ATSUM.

"We support the endeavours of the bill and appeal to the Government also to take necessary action in the interest of the Tribal at the right time,” the association said.

With festive season approaching, every individual is working hard for their daily bread, educational institutions are finally opening up after prolonged lockdown and ATSUM's total shutdown and economic blockade is deemed unsuitable, untimely and uncalled for, JTSA said.

Therefore, ATSUM's 24 hours' bandh will remain ineffective along the full stretch of NH-37 and all National Projects under JTSA jurisdiction shall remain functional in full swing. All shops and offices shall remain open to the public, it stated.

(Source IFP bureau) 



Yamthang Haokip joined BJP

 

Yamthong Haokip, who joined BJP yesterday, was earlier arrested by NIA during 2018 for his involvement in procuring police pistols illegally and distributing them to different terrorist groups to wage war against the state.

HungHao

MISSING pistols, sufficient material and other evidence had been found from Yamthong Haokip's house in Imphal's Mantri Pukhuri area during 2018. The missing 9mm weapon is not the only weapon recovered, the NIA agency found other weapons with and without license. Those included made in USA Beretta Pistol with an expired license, One unlicensed 9mm Made in Italy weapon (Pietro Beretta Gardone), One DBBL gun bearing number 65330/05 having License number L/981(KPI) renewed up to 31 December, 2014 and one SBBL gun without any mark of identification.

Besides this the NIA agency sleuths also found 22 rounds of live ammunition of 0.32 pistol, 15 rounds of live ammunition of 9mm pistol, 04 rounds of live ammunition of 7.62 rifle and 04 rounds of live ammunition of 7.62X39 (AK series).

NIA had attached immovable properties of Yamthong Haokip in a missing arms case. The attached properties included the house of the MLA in Imphal in connection with the case, as this property constituted proceeds of "terrorism as defined in Section 25 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act".

Besides, the NIA also attached four separate plots valued at Rs 1.32 crore which are in Yamthong Haokip's name and his wife Sapam Charubala Devi. 

He was charged under several sections of IPC, UAPA and Arms Act; and currently out on bail on medical ground. Owing to his recent illness, the NIA judge [in Imphal] ordered jail authorities to admit him in a government hospital during 2018.

The NIA has also implicated Ngamthang Haokip, who had joined the BJP which is in power in the state. NIA had recovered cash and letter pads of a Manipuri insurgent group from his premises.

(Source: TOI, Indian Express, HT, The Week, Scroll, India Today, Times Now, Deccan Herald.) 

Govt'white Paper

 

Government Brings Out White Paper On Funds Released To The Hill Districts

HungHao

IMPHAL Oct 28: TRIBAL  Affairs and Hills Development Department held a press conference at old Secretariat, Imphal today. At the press Conference, TA & Hills Director C. Arthur Worchuiyo highlighted the expenditure of the Hill District of Manipur.

As per the press note issued by the Secretariat Finance Department during the press conference, the State Government constituted a ‘Committee on the 25th August 2021 which examined the funds released to the districts of the State for the last 10 years, starting from Finance Year 2011-2012. Based on the information submitted by Departments and the information of overall expenditure from the Accountant General and Budgetary Figure with Finance Department, the committee made a comparison of the actual development funds released for the Hills Districts against the overall annual developmental expenditure of the Government.

The Press note said that the Committee upon examining all available information concluded that the fund flow to the Hills, as a percentage of the total developmental expenditure of the State, shows a fluctuating trend from 2012-13 but shows a general increasing trend from 2017-18. Further, it states that the last two financial years (FY 2019-20 and FY 2020-21) show a substantial increase in the absolute figures and in the percentage of funds such as Total Developmental Expenditure as per Budget figures during 2011-12 is Rs.3396.73, in 2012-13 Rs.3381.18. In 2013-14 the total expenditure was 3477.51 while in 2014-15 it was increased to Rs.4124.60 and in 2015-16 it was upto Rs.4290.15.

Hill expenditure as per Departments reports was Rs.1321.93 in 2011-12, Rs.1330.89 in 2012-13, Rs.1270.52 in 2013-14, Rs.1411.14 in 2014-15 and Rs.1337.89 in 2015-16 respectively. The percentage of Hill expenditure against total is 38.92% in 2011-12, 39.36% in 2012-13, 36.54% in 2013-14, 34.21% in 2014-15 and 31.19% 2015-16 respectively.

The total Developmental expenditure as per Budget figures in 2016-17 is Rs.4597.33, in 2017-18 Rs.4830.73, in 2018-19 Rs.5015.34, in 2019-20 Rs.4874.58 and in 2020-21 Finance year it was Rs.7051.10. Hill expenditure as per Departments reports is Rs.1538.98 in 2016-17, Rs.1843.72 in 2027-18, Rs.1845.34 in 2018-19, Rs.2133.09 in 2019-20 and Rs. 3225.99 in 2020-21 respectively. Percentage of Hill expenditure against total is 33.48% in 2016-17, 38.17% in 2017-18, 36.79% in 2018-19, 43.76% in 2019-20 and it was 45.75% in the Finance Year 2020-21  respectively.

In the Report of the Committee constituted by the Government of Manipur State that some major Departments including Planning, TA & Hills, Rural Development, PWD, PHED etc are responsible for the recent increase in the expenditure. There are many smaller Departments whose expenditure is less due to the overall small budgetary allocation of the Department and do not have a major impact on the fund distribution. Implementation of a few major projects leads to skewed fund distribution between Hill and Valley Districts and between the different Hill Districts which was seen mainly in beneficiary-based schemes whereby districts with a larger population get a larger share of scheme funds and in major infrastructure project and fund distribution between the different Hills Districts need to be streamlined was observation given by the committee.observe

The Committee made their recommendation, based on the observations that to move away from the Hill-Valley fund allocation system in the Budget, to that of tribal Sub-plan as this will help in monitoring fund allocation and expenditure in a better way. For better allocation of funds for the Tribal Sub-plan and also among the different districts, the State Government to consider adopting a formula along similar lines to that of the Finance Commission( both Central and State). Creating an institutionalized administrative mechanism to monitor the fund allocation and expenditure, the committee observed.

The Committee has reported that the report is to give fund flow from to all the Hill Districts in the last 10 (ten) years, starting from the Financial year 2011-12. The report aims to provide a Department-wise break-up of the developmental expenditure in the Hill Areas based on the information submitted by the Departments on the Schemes, various projects and other activities taken up by the State Government Departments.

The Report said that many projects cannot be divided strictly based on expenditure in Hills and Valley Areas. Many projects taken up in the Valley Districts are for the benefit of the Hill Areas including Tribal Research Institute, Hill Village Chiefs Guest House etc, or for the State as a whole like Manipur Secretariat, Inter-State Bus and Truck Terminus etc.

The present budgetary allocation in the form of Hill-Valley is not able to capture the actual fund allocation and expenditure for the Hill Districts, thereby making monitoring difficult state the press note.

Tribal Affair & Hills Director C. Arthur IAS, Joint Secretary ( Finance) Neilenthang Telien, and other dignitaries of the Department are present at the conference.

(By: Rinku Khumukcham)