Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki’s recent visit to Google Headquarters, Mountain View, California, USA seems to bear fruit as Google Inc has agreed in principle to launch Arunachal specific project and bring in solutions for imparting global standard education to the students of the state.
In a communiqué from Parliamentary Secretary, Education, IPR and Government Spokesperson Bamang Felix, who along with Education Secretary and Planning Secretary, Government of Arunachal held a meeting with Gagandeep Singh Puri, Head of Education in India for Google, stated that Google has agreed to launch a special programme for Arunachal titled “Chief Minister’s Global Education Programme”.
The programme which would be a restructure of CM’s Talent Award Scheme and shall cover the students of Class – VIII to XII, will be launched on 22nd of December at Itanagar by Chief Minister, Felix revealed. The entire technical support is being provided by Google, making it first of its kind in the country.
While lauding the CM for the landmark initiative, apparently excited Felix stated that with the launch of this e-education programme involving professionals from Google, Arunachal Pradesh would find its mention in educational map of the world.
Google being a pioneer in e-education would be of tremendous help in fulfilling the vision and ideals set by the State Government, he expressed confidence. It may be mentioned here that the Chief Minister during his visit to Google Headquarters had sought assistance from Google for making the state an e-educational hub.
-ArT
Showing posts with label NE News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NE News. Show all posts
Saturday, 13 December 2014
Friday, 12 December 2014
Fire devours 32 houses in Sine village in Arunachal’s East Siang district
Itanagar: At least 32 houses have been reduced to ashes when a fire broke out in the remote Sine village in Arunachal's East Siang district on Monday. The fire, which began around 2am, had spread quickly, an official report said here on Wednesday.
Education minister Tapang Taloh, Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering and East Siang DC Nidhi Srivastava expressed their shock over the incident. Taloh, who is the local MLA, sought a detailed report of the incident and directed Boleng ADC in-charge Gamtum Padu to extend all required help and financial assistance to the victims.
The minister said he has talked to the government for relief and rehabilitation of the victims. He urged the villagers to remain alert as there are frequent incidents of fire during winter.
He urged the administration, civil bodies, NGOs and students to take steps to create awareness on fire mishaps amongst villagers.
Ering, who is in New Delhi attending the Parliament session, said he would visit the village soon. He also expressed concern over repeated fire mishaps reported from various parts of the state.
The Congress MP also sanctioned Rs 10 lakh for procuring CGI sheets and Rs 1 lakh cash as financial assistance to the victims from his MPLAD fund.
Srivastava said she is closely monitoring the situation and officials have been briefed regarding rescue and relief measures, the report said.
~TimesofIndia
Education minister Tapang Taloh, Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering and East Siang DC Nidhi Srivastava expressed their shock over the incident. Taloh, who is the local MLA, sought a detailed report of the incident and directed Boleng ADC in-charge Gamtum Padu to extend all required help and financial assistance to the victims.
The minister said he has talked to the government for relief and rehabilitation of the victims. He urged the villagers to remain alert as there are frequent incidents of fire during winter.
He urged the administration, civil bodies, NGOs and students to take steps to create awareness on fire mishaps amongst villagers.
Ering, who is in New Delhi attending the Parliament session, said he would visit the village soon. He also expressed concern over repeated fire mishaps reported from various parts of the state.
The Congress MP also sanctioned Rs 10 lakh for procuring CGI sheets and Rs 1 lakh cash as financial assistance to the victims from his MPLAD fund.
Srivastava said she is closely monitoring the situation and officials have been briefed regarding rescue and relief measures, the report said.
~TimesofIndia
Thursday, 11 December 2014
37-year-old man raped sister-in-law in Manipur.
IMPHAL/Thoubal, Dec 11 : An irate mob today vandalised the house of a 37-year-old man, who allegedly raped his 23-year-old sister-in-law at Tekcham village in Thoubal district, under Kakching police station.
The accused has been identified as Langpoklapam Sanjoy of Tekcham Bazar Mamang Moirangthem Leirak.
According to the family of the alleged rape survivor, the incident happened inside a fishing hut near Lousipat, around 1 km away from Tekcham village last night.
They said that the victim along with her husband and their two little children have been staying in the hut for fishing since the past few days.
They added that fishing hut of the accused is located next to their hut.
Last evening at around 6 , the victim’s husband left his wife and children there and went to his house to fetch dinner for them.
Taking advantage of his absence, the accused allegedly barged into the hut and raped the young mother of two.
After the incident, the victim managed to reach her house along with her children and told everything to her husband and family.
Since early morning today, a large mob gathered at the locality.
However, Kakching police reached the locality on time and arrested Sanjoy from his house at around 10 am before the mob attacked him.
Later, the irate mob vandalised his house and conducted a public meeting at Tekcham High School ground in the afternoon.
The meeting resolved to ostracise Sanjoy along with his wife from Tekcham village.
The meeting also cautioned that anybody who gives shelter to Sanjoy and his wife inside the village would get the same punishment.
It also resolved that the family of the accused must provide compensation amount of Rs 3 lakh to the victim within December 15 this year failing which the locals would confiscate their residential land and sell it to pay the said amount
~The SangaiExpress
The accused has been identified as Langpoklapam Sanjoy of Tekcham Bazar Mamang Moirangthem Leirak.
According to the family of the alleged rape survivor, the incident happened inside a fishing hut near Lousipat, around 1 km away from Tekcham village last night.
They said that the victim along with her husband and their two little children have been staying in the hut for fishing since the past few days.
They added that fishing hut of the accused is located next to their hut.
Last evening at around 6 , the victim’s husband left his wife and children there and went to his house to fetch dinner for them.
Taking advantage of his absence, the accused allegedly barged into the hut and raped the young mother of two.
After the incident, the victim managed to reach her house along with her children and told everything to her husband and family.
Since early morning today, a large mob gathered at the locality.
However, Kakching police reached the locality on time and arrested Sanjoy from his house at around 10 am before the mob attacked him.
Later, the irate mob vandalised his house and conducted a public meeting at Tekcham High School ground in the afternoon.
The meeting resolved to ostracise Sanjoy along with his wife from Tekcham village.
The meeting also cautioned that anybody who gives shelter to Sanjoy and his wife inside the village would get the same punishment.
It also resolved that the family of the accused must provide compensation amount of Rs 3 lakh to the victim within December 15 this year failing which the locals would confiscate their residential land and sell it to pay the said amount
~The SangaiExpress
Saturday, 6 December 2014
Garo ultras trigger IED blast in Meghalaya, 5 cops injured
TURA: Violence continues to escalate in the Garo Hills region with suspected GNLA militants ambushing a police convoy by triggering a powerful IED blast in Chokpot region on Friday afternoon injuring five state police personnel belonging to the 3rd MLP battalion.
The incident comes less than 12 hours after the banned group attacked the residence of the Williamnagar Additional SP by opening indiscriminate fire and leaving behind a powerful IED bomb at the entrance to his house.
[caption id="attachment_13031" align="alignnone" width="800"]
One of the Meghalaya police battalion constables injured in the GNLA triggered
IED blast near Chokpot on Friday evening. (ST)[/caption]
Police personnel numbering ten armed men travelling in a mini truck and a maruti gypsy from the 3rd MLP Battalion headquarters in Jowai, Jaintia Hills, were stocking up their outposts and camps when they came under attack by the armed militants.
The two vehicle convoy had just replenished the stock of food items and other essentials at Chokpot for their battalion personnel deployed for counter-insurgency operations and were moving towards Sibbari when the attack took place.
As the convoy was passing through Rongrakgre village, 10 kms away from Chokpot, the powerful IED was triggered by suspected GNLA militants hiding in the dense forests.
“The blast hit the left side of the front Gypsy causing injury to five personnel. The havildar who was seated in the front passenger seat of the Gypsy received the maximum impact of the blast,” informed district police chief Lakador Syiem to The Shillong Times.
The injured personnel have been identified as Havildar Bibison Baitha, Battalion Constable (BNC) Karbinath Sangma, BNC Alians B Marak, BNC Dambarth B Marak and driver of the gypsy Riwstarwell Nongklaw.
All five injured have been brought to Tura Civil Hospital for medical treatment and the seriously injured are expected to be transported to Guwahati for specialist treatment, informed police.
The police gypsy sustained extensive damage on the left portion of the vehicle.
Despite the attack, the militants failed to take away any service weapon from the injured personnel since the armed men in the second vehicle acted promptly.
“As soon as the blast was triggered our boys in the mini truck jumped out and took up positions. They also fired into the dense forests to deter the attackers which may have forced the ultras to flee,” said the police chief.
Preliminary investigation by police indicates that the militants may have used a remote detonator to trigger the last.
“Our boys did not find any wires at the site of the blast and cannot rule out remote detonation. Since it was getting dark and there was a security risk we decided to restart the search next morning,” said SP Syiem.
The worrying factor appears to be the manner in which the militants managed to evade the police sanitizing teams along the route through which the convoy was to pass through.
Armed personnel also known as ‘road opening’ parties had patrolled several sections of the Chokpot road to check for militant activity including IEDs earlier in the day.
“The Chokpot road was cleared by our teams at several patches along the route. The militants probably took advantage knowing that our forces were stretched. The convoy was heading to Sibbari after supplying ration to Chokpot when they were attacked,” informed Lakador Syiem.
Source: http://www.theshillongtimes.com/2014/12/06/garo-ultras-trigger-ied-blast-in-chokpot-5-cops-injured/#Uex4Z7hxTylP4RVh.99
The incident comes less than 12 hours after the banned group attacked the residence of the Williamnagar Additional SP by opening indiscriminate fire and leaving behind a powerful IED bomb at the entrance to his house.
[caption id="attachment_13031" align="alignnone" width="800"]
One of the Meghalaya police battalion constables injured in the GNLA triggeredIED blast near Chokpot on Friday evening. (ST)[/caption]
Police personnel numbering ten armed men travelling in a mini truck and a maruti gypsy from the 3rd MLP Battalion headquarters in Jowai, Jaintia Hills, were stocking up their outposts and camps when they came under attack by the armed militants.
The two vehicle convoy had just replenished the stock of food items and other essentials at Chokpot for their battalion personnel deployed for counter-insurgency operations and were moving towards Sibbari when the attack took place.
As the convoy was passing through Rongrakgre village, 10 kms away from Chokpot, the powerful IED was triggered by suspected GNLA militants hiding in the dense forests.
“The blast hit the left side of the front Gypsy causing injury to five personnel. The havildar who was seated in the front passenger seat of the Gypsy received the maximum impact of the blast,” informed district police chief Lakador Syiem to The Shillong Times.
The injured personnel have been identified as Havildar Bibison Baitha, Battalion Constable (BNC) Karbinath Sangma, BNC Alians B Marak, BNC Dambarth B Marak and driver of the gypsy Riwstarwell Nongklaw.
All five injured have been brought to Tura Civil Hospital for medical treatment and the seriously injured are expected to be transported to Guwahati for specialist treatment, informed police.
The police gypsy sustained extensive damage on the left portion of the vehicle.
Despite the attack, the militants failed to take away any service weapon from the injured personnel since the armed men in the second vehicle acted promptly.
“As soon as the blast was triggered our boys in the mini truck jumped out and took up positions. They also fired into the dense forests to deter the attackers which may have forced the ultras to flee,” said the police chief.
Preliminary investigation by police indicates that the militants may have used a remote detonator to trigger the last.
“Our boys did not find any wires at the site of the blast and cannot rule out remote detonation. Since it was getting dark and there was a security risk we decided to restart the search next morning,” said SP Syiem.
The worrying factor appears to be the manner in which the militants managed to evade the police sanitizing teams along the route through which the convoy was to pass through.
Armed personnel also known as ‘road opening’ parties had patrolled several sections of the Chokpot road to check for militant activity including IEDs earlier in the day.
“The Chokpot road was cleared by our teams at several patches along the route. The militants probably took advantage knowing that our forces were stretched. The convoy was heading to Sibbari after supplying ration to Chokpot when they were attacked,” informed Lakador Syiem.
Source: http://www.theshillongtimes.com/2014/12/06/garo-ultras-trigger-ied-blast-in-chokpot-5-cops-injured/#Uex4Z7hxTylP4RVh.99
Thursday, 4 December 2014
Centre suspends investment policy for industry-starved NE
GUWAHATI: In a death blow to the industrially and economically backward northeast, the Centre on Wednesday suspended the Northeast Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy (NEIIP). The term of the 10-year policy ends in 2017.
The policy, implemented in the eight northeastern states, including Sikkim, was brought about by the previous UPA government in 2007 to encourage investments in the region. Several incentives were provided under the policy, including 100% excise duty exemption on finished products made in the region, 100% income tax exemption, capital investment subsidy at 30% of the investment in plant and machinery, interest subsidy at 3% on working capital loan.
The basic objective of the policy was to provide the requisite incentives as well as an enabling environment to expedite industrialization in the region which is otherwise less than 4% per annum against a national average of 8%.
State industry minister Pradyut Bordoloi said, "We have received a circular which says the policy will cease to exist from December 1. The policy was given shape by former PM Manmohan Singh to encourage industrialization through investments in the region." The circular from the ministry of commerce and industry, issued to all the eight states on Wednesday, said, "It has now been decided to suspend registration under the schemes of the Northeast Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy, 2007 with effect from December 1, 2014."
~Times of India
The policy, implemented in the eight northeastern states, including Sikkim, was brought about by the previous UPA government in 2007 to encourage investments in the region. Several incentives were provided under the policy, including 100% excise duty exemption on finished products made in the region, 100% income tax exemption, capital investment subsidy at 30% of the investment in plant and machinery, interest subsidy at 3% on working capital loan.
The basic objective of the policy was to provide the requisite incentives as well as an enabling environment to expedite industrialization in the region which is otherwise less than 4% per annum against a national average of 8%.
State industry minister Pradyut Bordoloi said, "We have received a circular which says the policy will cease to exist from December 1. The policy was given shape by former PM Manmohan Singh to encourage industrialization through investments in the region." The circular from the ministry of commerce and industry, issued to all the eight states on Wednesday, said, "It has now been decided to suspend registration under the schemes of the Northeast Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy, 2007 with effect from December 1, 2014."
~Times of India
Wednesday, 3 December 2014
Okram Ibobi Singh government extends AFSPA for a year in Manipur
Imphal: Amid continuing protests against the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, the Okram Ibobi Singh government has extended its enforcement across the state by another year, with effect from Tuesday baring the Imphal municipal areas.
Activist from the state, Irom Sharmila Chanu, has been on a fast for the past 14 years to seek the withdrawal of the military act, which gives security forces unbridled powers, including the right to shoot people on suspicion.
Notably Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not mention AFSPA in his speech during the closing ceremony of the Sangai Festival on Sunday. BJP had promised to withdraw the act in its poll manifesto for the Lok Sabha election.
The state cabinet, which met on Monday evening, extended the 'disturbed area' status in the state which is necessitated for the imposition of AFSPA. According to Section 3 of the act, the state government can extend the 'disturbed area' status over the whole state or selected areas.
In the aftermath of the brutal murder and rape of Thangjam Manorama Devi by Assam Rifles personnel in July 2004, the state government lifted the tag from the seven assembly segments in Imphal.
Chaired by chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, the cabinet made note of the continuing violence, including bomb blasts, in different parts of the state, official sources said.
The cabinet decided to request the state governor to convene the winter session of the 10th state legislative assembly. The winter session is likely to begin from December 18.
A Supreme Court order said the state government should review the decision to apply the 'disturbed area' tag over a state or some areas of it, with due permission of the chief minister, after every six months depending on the prevailing law and order situation, the sources added.
~TimesofIndia
Activist from the state, Irom Sharmila Chanu, has been on a fast for the past 14 years to seek the withdrawal of the military act, which gives security forces unbridled powers, including the right to shoot people on suspicion.
Notably Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not mention AFSPA in his speech during the closing ceremony of the Sangai Festival on Sunday. BJP had promised to withdraw the act in its poll manifesto for the Lok Sabha election.
The state cabinet, which met on Monday evening, extended the 'disturbed area' status in the state which is necessitated for the imposition of AFSPA. According to Section 3 of the act, the state government can extend the 'disturbed area' status over the whole state or selected areas.
In the aftermath of the brutal murder and rape of Thangjam Manorama Devi by Assam Rifles personnel in July 2004, the state government lifted the tag from the seven assembly segments in Imphal.
Chaired by chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, the cabinet made note of the continuing violence, including bomb blasts, in different parts of the state, official sources said.
The cabinet decided to request the state governor to convene the winter session of the 10th state legislative assembly. The winter session is likely to begin from December 18.
A Supreme Court order said the state government should review the decision to apply the 'disturbed area' tag over a state or some areas of it, with due permission of the chief minister, after every six months depending on the prevailing law and order situation, the sources added.
~TimesofIndia
61 women killed and 40 raped in Manipur in 2014 : Reports
Altogether 61 women have been murdered and 40 raped till November 10 this year, according to data compiled by the United NGOs Mission Manipur (UNMM).
Speaking to media persons at Manipur Press Club here today, UNMM women committee convenor Sobita Mangshatabam said that 61 women have been murdered and 40 raped in the State in the past 11 months and 10 days.
Of the 61 women killed, 24 were murdered in the most ghastly manner. Out of them, four were below 10 years and they were murdered after being raped. One 18 year old girl was also murdered after being raped.
16 women including 13 housewives were found dead under controversial circumstances. Of the 13 housewives, four were pregnant. 16 other women died by allegedly committing suicide. Two women were killed in bomb blasts. Three other women died during or after child delivery.
Sobita pointed out that procreation is impossible without women. Of the 61 women who have died or have been murdered this year, reproductive system of 57 were active.
Of the 40 women raped this year, 26 were below 18 years of age and 13 below 10 years.
Even as rape and killing of civilians by security forces have come down considerably in the State, rape and killing of civilians by civilians have been rising at an alarming rate.
Till November 10 this year, there are reports of 287 cases of violence against women including rape and murder. These figures are based on what were reported in the newspapers.
Source: http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/page/items/45134/61-women-killed-40-raped-this-year-unmm
Speaking to media persons at Manipur Press Club here today, UNMM women committee convenor Sobita Mangshatabam said that 61 women have been murdered and 40 raped in the State in the past 11 months and 10 days.
Of the 61 women killed, 24 were murdered in the most ghastly manner. Out of them, four were below 10 years and they were murdered after being raped. One 18 year old girl was also murdered after being raped.
16 women including 13 housewives were found dead under controversial circumstances. Of the 13 housewives, four were pregnant. 16 other women died by allegedly committing suicide. Two women were killed in bomb blasts. Three other women died during or after child delivery.
Sobita pointed out that procreation is impossible without women. Of the 61 women who have died or have been murdered this year, reproductive system of 57 were active.
Of the 40 women raped this year, 26 were below 18 years of age and 13 below 10 years.
Even as rape and killing of civilians by security forces have come down considerably in the State, rape and killing of civilians by civilians have been rising at an alarming rate.
Till November 10 this year, there are reports of 287 cases of violence against women including rape and murder. These figures are based on what were reported in the newspapers.
Source: http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/page/items/45134/61-women-killed-40-raped-this-year-unmm
Three hunters killed in Manipur, Militants' hands suspected
Ukhrul, Dec 2: Three villagers of New Tusom village in Ukhrul, found dead on November 30, were suspected to be killed by armed militants, who were passing through the jungle area on their way either to neighbouring Myanmar or Nagaland even as the corpses were retrieved yesterday.
At the same time, the Tangkhul Civil Organization today conducted a condolence programme at 7 am at TNL Hall, Ukhrul. Khayao Shatsang, a village elder narrating the incident leading to the death of the three villagers expressed strong suspicion that the killing was the handiworks of armed militants. The villagers have also decided to hold a special consultation meeting tomorrow regarding the incident.
Bullet ridden bodies of Raingam Shatsang, Chihanpam Vashum and Shimreiso Vashum were found in a jungle on Nov 30. Jessami police retrieved the bodies in collaboration with villagers yesterday and brought to Ukhrul for post mortem examination.
The villagers expressed strong suspicion that they were overpowered before shooting them at point blank range by the miscreants.
The dense forest area, located at least 10 kms away from the village, is said to be used as thorough fare to neighbouring Myanmar and Nagaland. The area is also said to be the safe haven for many armed militant groups. Blood stains were seen on the path for few distance.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, Ukhrul Modak Hrisheekesh personally visited and interacted with the victims' families along with the village elders and Tangkhul civil society leaders at Ukhrul police station yesterday.
The DC, as an immediate relief to the victims' families, handed Rs 50,000 to them and assured to extend all possible assistance from his end. A case has been registered with Jessami PS. Police inquest reports said that they were probably shot from close range with their own SBBL rifles. However, necessary investigation is underway. Weapons recovered from them were in police custody. Raigam was shot at his chest, Shimreiso on the temple while Chihanpam at the back of his neck. Cut marks were also detected on the throat of Chihanpam.
Vehemently condemning the killing, TNL president P Kazingmei termed the incident as shameful. He also shared the grief of the bereaved families on behalf on the Tangkhul Civil organization.
~The Sangai Express
At the same time, the Tangkhul Civil Organization today conducted a condolence programme at 7 am at TNL Hall, Ukhrul. Khayao Shatsang, a village elder narrating the incident leading to the death of the three villagers expressed strong suspicion that the killing was the handiworks of armed militants. The villagers have also decided to hold a special consultation meeting tomorrow regarding the incident.
Bullet ridden bodies of Raingam Shatsang, Chihanpam Vashum and Shimreiso Vashum were found in a jungle on Nov 30. Jessami police retrieved the bodies in collaboration with villagers yesterday and brought to Ukhrul for post mortem examination.
The villagers expressed strong suspicion that they were overpowered before shooting them at point blank range by the miscreants.
The dense forest area, located at least 10 kms away from the village, is said to be used as thorough fare to neighbouring Myanmar and Nagaland. The area is also said to be the safe haven for many armed militant groups. Blood stains were seen on the path for few distance.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, Ukhrul Modak Hrisheekesh personally visited and interacted with the victims' families along with the village elders and Tangkhul civil society leaders at Ukhrul police station yesterday.
The DC, as an immediate relief to the victims' families, handed Rs 50,000 to them and assured to extend all possible assistance from his end. A case has been registered with Jessami PS. Police inquest reports said that they were probably shot from close range with their own SBBL rifles. However, necessary investigation is underway. Weapons recovered from them were in police custody. Raigam was shot at his chest, Shimreiso on the temple while Chihanpam at the back of his neck. Cut marks were also detected on the throat of Chihanpam.
Vehemently condemning the killing, TNL president P Kazingmei termed the incident as shameful. He also shared the grief of the bereaved families on behalf on the Tangkhul Civil organization.
~The Sangai Express
PREPAK Chairman, Finance Secy decamp with Rs 2.4 cr
IMPHAL, Dec 2 : PREPAK Chairman Ningombam Nabachandra alias Naba alias Nongdrenkhomba (55) of Thangmeiband Lourungpurel Leikai but presently living at Thangmeiband Hijam Dewan Leikai and Potsangbam Chinglen alias London (46) of Chingmeirong Laipham Khunou fled away and surrendered to the ‘enemy’ on November 19 last even as the party’s central committee and cadres holding the rank of Captain and above were holding a meeting.
As such, all their activities would not have any connection with the party henceforth, informed a statement issued by the outfit’s assistant secretary, publicity and propaganda Leibak-Ngakpa Luwang.
The post of finance secretary earlier held by P Chinglen Meitei would be taken over by N Romi Meitei as finance secretary-in-charge. All documents of the party related with financial matters would be signed by N Romi Meitei.
Ningombam Nabachandra alias Naba alias Nongdrenkhomba officially joined the party in March 1993 and he was promoted to the post of Home Secretary on December 1, 1993. He was elevated to the post of vice-chairman on May 8, 1997. He became the party’s Chairman on June 11, 2011.
A preliminary meeting of the central committee and cadres hold the rank of captain and above was held on November 14 this year. This was followed by another meeting on November 16 where Nongdrenkhomba was also present.
The meeting adopted five resolutions one of which said that the Chairman should not involve himself in the party’s financial matters except acting as a supervisor. The meeting was put off to November 20 as all the listed agenda could not be discussed on the day.
Two of the agenda missed at the November 16 meeting were about Rs 2 crore and 40 lakh which the Chairman should return to the party and purchase of four-wheeler vehicles and plots near the party’s central head quarters by the Chairman in his personal interest without consent of the central committee.
On November 19, no communication could be made with Chairman Nongdrenkhomba and finance secretary P Chinglen and in the afternoon, it was learnt that they had fled away from the party. On checking a trunk after they had fled away, a sum of Rs 19,49,992 kept in the trunk was also found missing.
Saying that Nongdrenkhomba and Chinglen have denigrated and betrayed all the sincere and genuine revolutionaries, the outfit, nonetheless, maintained that have learnt a very valuable lesson.
This lesson would embolden and hardened the commitment of the Red Army to carry on the armed struggle relentlessly until sovereignty is achieved followed by establishment of a progressive society, the outfit conveyed.
~The Sangai Express
As such, all their activities would not have any connection with the party henceforth, informed a statement issued by the outfit’s assistant secretary, publicity and propaganda Leibak-Ngakpa Luwang.
The post of finance secretary earlier held by P Chinglen Meitei would be taken over by N Romi Meitei as finance secretary-in-charge. All documents of the party related with financial matters would be signed by N Romi Meitei.
Ningombam Nabachandra alias Naba alias Nongdrenkhomba officially joined the party in March 1993 and he was promoted to the post of Home Secretary on December 1, 1993. He was elevated to the post of vice-chairman on May 8, 1997. He became the party’s Chairman on June 11, 2011.
A preliminary meeting of the central committee and cadres hold the rank of captain and above was held on November 14 this year. This was followed by another meeting on November 16 where Nongdrenkhomba was also present.
The meeting adopted five resolutions one of which said that the Chairman should not involve himself in the party’s financial matters except acting as a supervisor. The meeting was put off to November 20 as all the listed agenda could not be discussed on the day.
Two of the agenda missed at the November 16 meeting were about Rs 2 crore and 40 lakh which the Chairman should return to the party and purchase of four-wheeler vehicles and plots near the party’s central head quarters by the Chairman in his personal interest without consent of the central committee.
On November 19, no communication could be made with Chairman Nongdrenkhomba and finance secretary P Chinglen and in the afternoon, it was learnt that they had fled away from the party. On checking a trunk after they had fled away, a sum of Rs 19,49,992 kept in the trunk was also found missing.
Saying that Nongdrenkhomba and Chinglen have denigrated and betrayed all the sincere and genuine revolutionaries, the outfit, nonetheless, maintained that have learnt a very valuable lesson.
This lesson would embolden and hardened the commitment of the Red Army to carry on the armed struggle relentlessly until sovereignty is achieved followed by establishment of a progressive society, the outfit conveyed.
~The Sangai Express
Sunday, 30 November 2014
PM’s remarks at the closing function of the Manipur Sangai Festival
In his remarks at the closing function of the Manipur Sangai Festival in Imphal today, the Prime Minister said sports was the fulcrum of tremendous economic activity. Several allied disciplines such as nutrition and physiotherapy were associated with sports, and this could boost employment prospects for the youth of Manipur.
The Prime Minister made an impassioned plea to free the youth of the state from the menace of drugs. He said the youth of this state, that has the potential to inspire the entire nation through excellence in sports, should not fall prey to drugs.
On the subject of employment, the Prime Minister said the entire northeast region had the potential to emerge as a hub for call centres.
The Prime Minister referred to the requests made by the Chief Minister for improving infrastructure such as roads and hospitals. He said he was happy that the Chief Minister looked forward to this Union Government delivering infrastructure. He said Rs. 60,000 crore had been earmarked in the Union Budget this year for infrastructure in the North-East. He said he would look into each of the requests made and see what could be done about them. He said the Union Government wishes to take the entire Northeast region to new heights of development. The Prime Minister also said that during his recent visit to Myanmar, a lot of attention had been given to improving connectivity between Imphal and Southeast Asia. He said a lot of initiatives had been taken for infrastructure, and the results of these initiatives would be visible in the coming days.
The Prime Minister said that by participating in the closing function of the Manipur Sangai Festival, he wants to give a message to the rest of the country about the immense tourism potential of the state. He said tourism and infrastructure went hand in hand, and tourism was a big generator of employment.
The Prime Minister said he wanted youth from the Northeast to be recruited in the Delhi Police. He also referred to a proposal made by him when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat, for 200 women police personnel from each of the Northeast states to be deployed in Gujarat for 2 years. He said such steps could boost national integration.
~Source: http://www.narendramodi.in/pms-remarks-at-the-closing-function-of-the-manipur-sangai-festival/
The Prime Minister made an impassioned plea to free the youth of the state from the menace of drugs. He said the youth of this state, that has the potential to inspire the entire nation through excellence in sports, should not fall prey to drugs.
On the subject of employment, the Prime Minister said the entire northeast region had the potential to emerge as a hub for call centres.
The Prime Minister referred to the requests made by the Chief Minister for improving infrastructure such as roads and hospitals. He said he was happy that the Chief Minister looked forward to this Union Government delivering infrastructure. He said Rs. 60,000 crore had been earmarked in the Union Budget this year for infrastructure in the North-East. He said he would look into each of the requests made and see what could be done about them. He said the Union Government wishes to take the entire Northeast region to new heights of development. The Prime Minister also said that during his recent visit to Myanmar, a lot of attention had been given to improving connectivity between Imphal and Southeast Asia. He said a lot of initiatives had been taken for infrastructure, and the results of these initiatives would be visible in the coming days.
The Prime Minister said that by participating in the closing function of the Manipur Sangai Festival, he wants to give a message to the rest of the country about the immense tourism potential of the state. He said tourism and infrastructure went hand in hand, and tourism was a big generator of employment.
The Prime Minister said he wanted youth from the Northeast to be recruited in the Delhi Police. He also referred to a proposal made by him when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat, for 200 women police personnel from each of the Northeast states to be deployed in Gujarat for 2 years. He said such steps could boost national integration.
~Source: http://www.narendramodi.in/pms-remarks-at-the-closing-function-of-the-manipur-sangai-festival/
Will crackdown on illegal immigrants in Assam: PM Modi
GUWAHATI: PM Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed a gathering of BJP workers here and praised them for their efforts in the northeast, adding that development has been the only mantra of BJP.
Addressing the issue of safety in Assam, PM Modi said, "I am aware of the problems of Assam and there will be no compromise on safety."
Modi also sought people's consent for an India-Bangladesh land swap deal which he said will benefit Assam.
The Prime Minister said he would use the deal to stop illegal infiltration into Assam from Bangladesh.
"I know the sentiments of the people of Assam. I assure you that I am going to use the proposed land swap deal for the benefit of Assam."
"It may seem a loss for Assam but I will make such arrangements that it benefits Assam in the long run," he said.
(With inputs from IANS)
IED bomb found at D.C. Office complex in Senapati, Manipur
Senapati, November 29: At 3.20.p.m today, an IED bomb was found planted in a toilet at D.C office Chamber, District Level Office No. 4 by Senapati police. According to a reliable source, the bomb was planted by suspected MNPF, an insurgent outfit operating in Manipur.
Interestingly, the police begun the search for the bomb following the tip given by leaders of civil organisations who were informed by the outfit through mobile text messages that the bomb threat believed to be just a mere hoax on 28th november was real. It is also said that social leaders were threaten by the suspects for covering up the truth.
According to the Superintendent of Police, Senapati, when the search was on, the sniffer dog suddenly stopped near the door of the toliet. And when the police open the toilet door, an IED bomb was found lying on top of the flasher.
On reaching the spot, this reporter found that main gate of the Block was locked, and the lock key was with O.C., Senapati Police who said that the case would be handled by police alone.
When asked why the bomb was not disposed immediately,S.P. of Senapati said that bomb squad from Imphal will arrive on Monday as they were all engaged for Prime Minister’s visit to attend conclusion ceremony of the Sangai Festival on November 30 which had started since November 21. S.P. also said he would request the help of Assam Rifle, Senapati Post by Sunday. Until the bomb is defused, the police personnel will stay vigil and guard the building, said S.P.
The incident took place when DC Jacintha Lazarus is on leave to visit her sick mother.
NE to be developed as new ‘spice destination’
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, NOVEMBER 28 (PTI): To tap North East states’ potential to emerge as a destination for cultivation of spices, the Spices Board has embarked on plans to promote farming of a wide range of produce that fetch great demand in domestic and global markets.
According to the Board, with Assam in the core location, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram are congenial grounds for commercial cultivation of spices retaining their unique generic properties.
Spice India, the official journal of Kochi-based Spices Board, said the rich land and the alluvial soil deposits along the Brahmaputra river basin and the tropical rain forests offer a splendid backdrop for organic farming.
Given a support, these factors can contribute towards improving farm incomes, enhancing food and nutrition security, accelerating the overall economic growth of the region and marketability of produce from this region,» the journal said.
The project is expected to give a fillip to a variety of spices like Naga chillies, highly pungent bird›s eye chillies of Mizoram, high curcumin bearing Lakadong turmeric of Meghalaya, Himalayan ginger and large cardamom.
To start with, the Board will come up with flagship schemes in Arunachal Pradesh, partnering with the state Horticulture Department, as part of which an MoU has already been signed.
Spices Board Chairman A Jayathilak, who was in Arunachal Pradesh last month, offered to provide critical support like establishing primary processing units closer to production areas for traders and exporters to procure clean spices.
~MExN
According to the Board, with Assam in the core location, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram are congenial grounds for commercial cultivation of spices retaining their unique generic properties.
Spice India, the official journal of Kochi-based Spices Board, said the rich land and the alluvial soil deposits along the Brahmaputra river basin and the tropical rain forests offer a splendid backdrop for organic farming.
Given a support, these factors can contribute towards improving farm incomes, enhancing food and nutrition security, accelerating the overall economic growth of the region and marketability of produce from this region,» the journal said.
The project is expected to give a fillip to a variety of spices like Naga chillies, highly pungent bird›s eye chillies of Mizoram, high curcumin bearing Lakadong turmeric of Meghalaya, Himalayan ginger and large cardamom.
To start with, the Board will come up with flagship schemes in Arunachal Pradesh, partnering with the state Horticulture Department, as part of which an MoU has already been signed.
Spices Board Chairman A Jayathilak, who was in Arunachal Pradesh last month, offered to provide critical support like establishing primary processing units closer to production areas for traders and exporters to procure clean spices.
~MExN
PM Modi flags off Meghalaya's first train, compares NE to Lakshmi
Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday flagged off the first passenger train from Mendipathar in Meghalaya to Dudhnoi in Assam, thereby putting Meghalaya for the first time on India's railway map. He compared the northeast region to Goddess Lakshmi, and said development of the region will help the rest of India.
The prime minister, who kick-started a three-day four-state tour of the region, also laid the foundation stone of a new broad gauge railway line between Bhairabi and Sairang in Mizoram. "Vaastu Shastra claims that if one keeps the Eshan (northeast) corner of a house in order, it boosts the prosperity of the house. Similarly, I believe that if we can keep India's northeast in order, it would help the rest of the country also," Modi said in his address to thousands of people at the railway stadium in Guwahati.
Modi, on his maiden visit after becoming prime minister, said infrastructure was the key to development. "If we can develop the infrastructure of the region, development will follow. The northeast region will achieve new heights of development if infrastructure like rail and road links are developed," he said.
Modi compared the eight states of the region with Ashta Lakshmi (the eight different forms of Goddess Lakshmi), and said proper development of the Ashta Lakshmi will help develop other parts of the region too.
Referring to his recent visit to Myanmar, Modi said he has already taken up the issue of railway link between the northeast and Myanmar. "They say this is the century of Asia, and if it is true, the northeast must have its share of it. My government's effort will be to establish rail links between the region and Myanmar and other Asian countries, which will boost the potential of the region," he said.
Modi also stressed on the need to modernise the railways and said his government has decided to invite private investment in railways and privatise the railway stations to make them economically viable. "The railway connects. But it also expedites the speed of development. It is in fact the spine of the country's economy," he said. "Unfortunately in the past, railway budgets have been only about adding a compartment and adding new tracks. I want to develop the railways, both vertically and horizontally" he said.
AFSPA extended for 6 months in Tripura
Agartala, Nov 29 : Tripura government has decided to extend the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in 24 police station areas fully and in six police station areas partly for another six months to contain insurgency, a senior police official said today.
This decision to extend AFSPA was taken by the government after review of law and order situation at the meeting of the state-level coordination committee consisting top level officials including state police and central paramilitary forces, IG (police control) Nepal Das said.
The present term of AFSPA, which has been in force for long in these 30 police stations, would expire on December 5. Even as the insurgency came down recently, the remnants still existed and the insurgents of Tripura were still using the soil of Bangladesh, Chief Minister Manik Sarkar said recently.
The Inspector General of BSF, Tripura Frontier, B N Sharma yesterday said there were 32 camps of insurgents of the state in the soil of Bangladesh. Tripura has 72 police stations.
Sangai
This decision to extend AFSPA was taken by the government after review of law and order situation at the meeting of the state-level coordination committee consisting top level officials including state police and central paramilitary forces, IG (police control) Nepal Das said.
The present term of AFSPA, which has been in force for long in these 30 police stations, would expire on December 5. Even as the insurgency came down recently, the remnants still existed and the insurgents of Tripura were still using the soil of Bangladesh, Chief Minister Manik Sarkar said recently.
The Inspector General of BSF, Tripura Frontier, B N Sharma yesterday said there were 32 camps of insurgents of the state in the soil of Bangladesh. Tripura has 72 police stations.
Sangai
24 hours before Modi's arrival, Bomb blast killed 11 year old in Manipur
IMPHAL, Nov 29: A powerful IED blast at Lilong Sagol Loukon (paddy fields) near 40 Assam Rifles post in Thouabl district killed an 11 year old boy this morning.
According to information culled from the spot, the improvised explosive device exploded about 200 metres West of the AR post at around 9.35 am. Incidentally, Lilong police station is also located just beside the AR post.
The boy killed in the IED blast has been identified as Md Wahajuddin s/o Md Hafazuddin of Lilong Turel Ahanbi Mathak Leikai. Family members said that Wahajuddin went out in the morning to collect left out paddy stalks.
It is suspected that the boy accidentally stepped on the IED which was planted there and covered by straw. Later, a police team led by Thoubal Additional SP Dr Sarangthem Ibomcha came to the spot and cordoned off the area in case any more explosives were still present.
With the arrival of a bomb disposal squad, a search operation was conducted in and around the area. After it was confirmed that no more explosives were present in the area, a team of Forensic Science experts investigated the blast site.
Meanwhile, taking strong exception to the fatal bomb blast, local people blocked Imphal-Moreh highway at Lilong-Arapti junction this afternoon. One religious leader alleged that no UG element was present in Lilong area and that Assam Rifles posted there was responsible for the bomb blast.
Assam Rifles prohibit civilians from accessing the paddy fields after 4 in the afternoon. There were many instances where Assam Rifles disturbed the peaceful atmosphere and tranquillity of the are. For all these reasons, the AR post should be shifted away at the earliest, said the religious man.
On the other hand, the All Manipur Muslim Organisations Co-ordinating Committee organisation secretary Abdul Qayum has condemned the bomb blast in the strongest terms. He also conveyed solidarity to the bereaved family.
He also questioned how such a powerful bomb exploded just 200 metres away from the AR post in the periphery of the paddy field where civilians are denied access.
The road blockade was lifted after an understanding was reached between the protesters and Agriculture Minister Abdul Nasir.
Abdul Nasir reportedly assured the protesters that ex-gratia of Rs five lakh would be given to the family of the deceased victim in addition to other benefits.
Police have picked up and deposited Wahajuddin’s corpse at JNIMS morgue.
~SangaiExpress
According to information culled from the spot, the improvised explosive device exploded about 200 metres West of the AR post at around 9.35 am. Incidentally, Lilong police station is also located just beside the AR post.
The boy killed in the IED blast has been identified as Md Wahajuddin s/o Md Hafazuddin of Lilong Turel Ahanbi Mathak Leikai. Family members said that Wahajuddin went out in the morning to collect left out paddy stalks.
It is suspected that the boy accidentally stepped on the IED which was planted there and covered by straw. Later, a police team led by Thoubal Additional SP Dr Sarangthem Ibomcha came to the spot and cordoned off the area in case any more explosives were still present.
With the arrival of a bomb disposal squad, a search operation was conducted in and around the area. After it was confirmed that no more explosives were present in the area, a team of Forensic Science experts investigated the blast site.
Meanwhile, taking strong exception to the fatal bomb blast, local people blocked Imphal-Moreh highway at Lilong-Arapti junction this afternoon. One religious leader alleged that no UG element was present in Lilong area and that Assam Rifles posted there was responsible for the bomb blast.
Assam Rifles prohibit civilians from accessing the paddy fields after 4 in the afternoon. There were many instances where Assam Rifles disturbed the peaceful atmosphere and tranquillity of the are. For all these reasons, the AR post should be shifted away at the earliest, said the religious man.
On the other hand, the All Manipur Muslim Organisations Co-ordinating Committee organisation secretary Abdul Qayum has condemned the bomb blast in the strongest terms. He also conveyed solidarity to the bereaved family.
He also questioned how such a powerful bomb exploded just 200 metres away from the AR post in the periphery of the paddy field where civilians are denied access.
The road blockade was lifted after an understanding was reached between the protesters and Agriculture Minister Abdul Nasir.
Abdul Nasir reportedly assured the protesters that ex-gratia of Rs five lakh would be given to the family of the deceased victim in addition to other benefits.
Police have picked up and deposited Wahajuddin’s corpse at JNIMS morgue.
~SangaiExpress
NE conflicts have socio-economic roots: Rajnath
Guwahati, Nov 29 : Most conflicts in the North-eastern region have socio- economic reasons behind them and these (reasons) have been there since even before independence, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said here on Saturday.
Intelligence Bureau director Syed Asif Ibrahim on the other hand said the Northeast situation was “fragile” despite several groups talking peace with the government.
Addressing the inaugural function of the 49th All India Conference of DGS and IGPs – held for the first time outside the national capital – here Saturday, Singh said these socio-economic disparities have existed due to lack of development including that of infrastructure in the region.
“The level of development including infrastructure development has not been as satisfactory as it should have been. Some conflicts have roots in these socio-economic reasons. This is a matter of concern. It is not an exaggeration that these disparities have existed since even before independence,” Singh said.
He also expressed concern over incidents of violence carried out by various groups in the region despite peace talks, ceasefire and suspension of operation by several of these groups.
“The Government of India has been talking to some groups while some others are either in ceasefire or have declared suspension of violence on their own. But despite that, extortion and other incidents have been on,” Singh said.
Pointing out that holding the All India Conference of DGPs and IGPs outside Delhi was a major decision taken by the government, the Home Minister also said that holding the first such conference in Guwahati was at the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.
“It is at the Prime Minister’s suggestion that we are holding this important conference in the Northeast,” he added.
Earlier, giving an overview of the situation, Intelligence Bureau director Syed Asif Ibrahim said the security scenario in the Northeastern region continued to be fragile due to violent activities carried out by groups that are still outside the process of peace talks with the government.
“The situation in the Northeast continues to be fragile because of violent acts carried out by groups that are still outside the dialogue process with the government,” Ibrahim said.
Giving a state-wise break-up he said that while the Songbijit faction of NDFB was responsible for 85 per cent of the casualties in Assam, the GNLA was responsible for over 75 per cent casualties in Meghalaya.
“In Nagaland, internecine clashes for area dominance and extortion have remained a cause of worry, while two Naga outfits are engaged in a turf-war in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts of Arunachal Pradesh. In Manipur on the other hand, Meitei underground groups are responsible for over 55 per cent casualties,” Ibrahim said.
~SangaiExpress
Intelligence Bureau director Syed Asif Ibrahim on the other hand said the Northeast situation was “fragile” despite several groups talking peace with the government.
Addressing the inaugural function of the 49th All India Conference of DGS and IGPs – held for the first time outside the national capital – here Saturday, Singh said these socio-economic disparities have existed due to lack of development including that of infrastructure in the region.
“The level of development including infrastructure development has not been as satisfactory as it should have been. Some conflicts have roots in these socio-economic reasons. This is a matter of concern. It is not an exaggeration that these disparities have existed since even before independence,” Singh said.
He also expressed concern over incidents of violence carried out by various groups in the region despite peace talks, ceasefire and suspension of operation by several of these groups.
“The Government of India has been talking to some groups while some others are either in ceasefire or have declared suspension of violence on their own. But despite that, extortion and other incidents have been on,” Singh said.
Pointing out that holding the All India Conference of DGPs and IGPs outside Delhi was a major decision taken by the government, the Home Minister also said that holding the first such conference in Guwahati was at the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.
“It is at the Prime Minister’s suggestion that we are holding this important conference in the Northeast,” he added.
Earlier, giving an overview of the situation, Intelligence Bureau director Syed Asif Ibrahim said the security scenario in the Northeastern region continued to be fragile due to violent activities carried out by groups that are still outside the process of peace talks with the government.
“The situation in the Northeast continues to be fragile because of violent acts carried out by groups that are still outside the dialogue process with the government,” Ibrahim said.
Giving a state-wise break-up he said that while the Songbijit faction of NDFB was responsible for 85 per cent of the casualties in Assam, the GNLA was responsible for over 75 per cent casualties in Meghalaya.
“In Nagaland, internecine clashes for area dominance and extortion have remained a cause of worry, while two Naga outfits are engaged in a turf-war in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts of Arunachal Pradesh. In Manipur on the other hand, Meitei underground groups are responsible for over 55 per cent casualties,” Ibrahim said.
~SangaiExpress
Wednesday, 26 November 2014
Prime Minister Modi to inaugurate Meghalaya's first train on Nov 29
SHILLONG: Meghalaya will be on the railway map when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate its first train connecting Dudhnoi in Assam with Mendipatha in the state on November 29.
The Prime Minister will flag-off the new rail connectivity to Mendipathar in North Garo Hills from Maligaon in Guwahati and then speak to the people of Garo hills through video conferencing, deputy commissioner of North Garo Hills district D Sangma said.
Approved in 1992-93, foundation of the 19.47km broad guage railway line was laid by chief minister Mukul Sangma in 2012.
The British had unsuccessfully built the Cherra Companyganj State Railways in Khasi and Jaintia hills region in 1895-96.
~TOI
The Prime Minister will flag-off the new rail connectivity to Mendipathar in North Garo Hills from Maligaon in Guwahati and then speak to the people of Garo hills through video conferencing, deputy commissioner of North Garo Hills district D Sangma said.
Approved in 1992-93, foundation of the 19.47km broad guage railway line was laid by chief minister Mukul Sangma in 2012.
The British had unsuccessfully built the Cherra Companyganj State Railways in Khasi and Jaintia hills region in 1895-96.
~TOI
Centre Orders Probe on Bangladeshi Influx
The Centre ordered a probe by a premier central agency into reports of infiltration into India through Bangladesh. The matter has been assigned to a premier investigation agency for detailed investigation, Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said in a Lok Sabha reply.
The Minister further said that at least 17 Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended by BSF last November, who were in possession of documents like Aadhar, Voter Identity Cards and driving licence. Admitting reports of Bangladeshi nationals having entered the country without valid documents, Rijiju said a number of Bangladeshi nationals, who had entered India on valid travel documents, also have been found to be overstaying. According to available information, as on December 31, 2012, 16,530 Bangladeshi nationals who came to India with valid travel documents were found to be overstaying.
Meanwhile, the Centre today ruled out the possibility of amending the Citizenship Act and visa rules for Bangladeshi and Pakistani nationals living in India on Long Term Visa. However, the facilities provided to these foreigners are reviewed as and when required, Rijiju said.
Significantly, Rijiju revealed that the Government of India has initiated the process to amend suitably clauses (a), (C), (f) and (g) of sub-section (1) of Section 5 and Section 6 of the Citizenship Act 1955 to relax the prescribed period of one year of continuing stay of foreigners in India immediately before making an application for citizenship.
As reported, currently the Supreme Court is hearing a bunch of petitions challenging the validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, which deals with cut-off date as specified under the Assam Accord. Meanwhile, Rijiju said that there is no proposal under consideration to construct fences on the riverine areas of the Indo-Bangladesh Border.
-AT
NorthEast Today
The Minister further said that at least 17 Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended by BSF last November, who were in possession of documents like Aadhar, Voter Identity Cards and driving licence. Admitting reports of Bangladeshi nationals having entered the country without valid documents, Rijiju said a number of Bangladeshi nationals, who had entered India on valid travel documents, also have been found to be overstaying. According to available information, as on December 31, 2012, 16,530 Bangladeshi nationals who came to India with valid travel documents were found to be overstaying.
Meanwhile, the Centre today ruled out the possibility of amending the Citizenship Act and visa rules for Bangladeshi and Pakistani nationals living in India on Long Term Visa. However, the facilities provided to these foreigners are reviewed as and when required, Rijiju said.
Significantly, Rijiju revealed that the Government of India has initiated the process to amend suitably clauses (a), (C), (f) and (g) of sub-section (1) of Section 5 and Section 6 of the Citizenship Act 1955 to relax the prescribed period of one year of continuing stay of foreigners in India immediately before making an application for citizenship.
As reported, currently the Supreme Court is hearing a bunch of petitions challenging the validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, which deals with cut-off date as specified under the Assam Accord. Meanwhile, Rijiju said that there is no proposal under consideration to construct fences on the riverine areas of the Indo-Bangladesh Border.
-AT
NorthEast Today
Meghalaya to include Khasi language in 8th Schedule
Shillong: The Meghalaya government has promised to get Khasi language, spoken by at least 1.5 million people in the state, included in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution recognizing it as one of the official languages in the country.
"I will do what I can to get Khasi (language) included in the Eighth Schedule (of the Constitution). I have spoken to the chief minister in this regard," deputy chief minister RS Laloo, who also holds the education portfolio, told the assembly on the second day of the winter session on Monday.
He added that the government will take up the matter with the Central Board of School Education (CBSE) to ensure that Khasi was made one of the languages in its curriculum. Laloo was replying to a question raised in the House on why Khasi was made elective (non-compulsory) in the higher secondary school exam in the state. The language spoken by Khasi and Jaintia tribes had been recognized and notified as associate official language of the state after the Meghalaya State Language Act, 2005, received the governor's assent on May 1, 2005.
In 2011, the government approved the Meghalaya Board of School Education regulations for higher secondary school exam, changing the status of MIL to an elective subject in view of the dynamic changes in the field of education, said Laloo.
"This has broadened the scope for students to opt for subjects that matter to the career of their choices as per the National Curriculum Framework, 2005," he said.
United Democratic Party legislator Paul Lyngdoh said the move could be detrimental to the 'only surviving Monkhmer language' in India.
After the Board's notification last year, there was an increase of at least 1,000 more students opting for Khasi as one of their subjects, the deputy chief minister said. Later, Hill State People's Democratic Party leader Ardent Basaiawmoit also raised a call attention motion on withdrawal of Khasi as a compulsory subject by the state's school education board.
~MExN
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