PTI, IMPHAL, FEB 22, 2025 : Days after President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur, the state government on Friday transferred 11 officials, including six police officers, according to an official statement. Among the top officials who were transferred,
Superintendent of Police of Tamenglong district Babitarani Swain was given a new posting as SP of Chandel district, while the SP of Chandel was transferred to the post in Tamenglong.
Inspector General of Police (Internal/Narcotics and Affairs of Border) Kabib K was given a new posting as IGP Zone-III, while DIGP (NAB) Ningshen Worngam was transferred as IGP (Int/NAB) on promotion, the statement said.
Commissioner cum Secretary (Secretary to Chief Minister, Manipur/Social Welfare) and Special Secretary (Cabinet) N Geoffrey has been given a new place of posting as Commissioner cum Secretary (Social Welfare).
President’s Rule was imposed in strife-torn Manipur on February 13, days after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned from his post, which led to political uncertainty in the northeastern state.
The Manipur assembly, which has a tenure till 2027, has been put under suspended animation.
A well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a depression on Tuesday as it rolled towards the eastern coast with the likelihood of turning into a severe cyclonic storm
PTI, Calcutta, 22.10.24 :West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said the state administration was ready to respond to any disaster that could occur due to an impending cyclone and announced that primary and secondary schools in nine districts would remain closed from Wednesday to October 26 as a precautionary measure.
She said teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and SDRF have already been deployed and integrated control rooms, at both state and district levels, become functional 24X7.
A well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a depression on Tuesday as it rolled towards the eastern coast with the likelihood of turning into a severe cyclonic storm, the IMD said.
“Our government is ready to face this cyclonic storm. We have already started integrated control rooms at state and district levels and they are working 24X7. As a precautionary measure, fishermen have been asked not to venture into the seas. Public address systems are in place in the coastal areas. The district magistrates (DMs) and Superintendents of police (SPs) have been asked to keep their eyes open till the situation normalises,” Banerjee said.
As per the prediction of the India Meteorological Department, the weather system may gain strength and the impending cyclone make landfall somewhere between Puri and Sagar Island.
“The wind speed may reach above 110 km per hour,” she added.
The IMD, in its bulletin, said the well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal concentrated into a depression and lay centred at 700 km away from Paradip in Odisha and 750 km from Sagar Island in West Bengal around 8.30 am on Tuesday.
The depression will further intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 23 and cross north Odisha and southern West Bengal coasts between Puri and Sagar Island in the early morning hours of October 25 as a severe cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph, it said.
The Bengal CM said districts of South and North 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur and its coastal areas are expected to be affected severely.
“Besides the neighbouring districts of Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Jhargram and Hooghly are likely to be affected. Schools will remain closed in these districts from October 23 to 26 as a precautionary measure. We do not want to take any risks and do not want anyone to face danger. Schools and colleges are sometimes used as shelters for people,” she said.
According to a notification issued by the state government, educational institutes will remain closed in the districts of North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Bankura, Howrah, Hooghly and Kolkata from Wednesday till October 26.
The Bengal CM said the district administrations have been asked to shift all those residing in low-lying areas of these districts to safe places.
“We have started taking measures since yesterday. The ferry movements in coastal areas and districts will remain non-operational till the situation returns to normalcy. Tourist movements have been monitored as a precautionary measure,” she said.
Banerjee said Chief Secretary Manoj Pant held a meeting with all the departments, NDRF, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), power utilities and municipal corporations concerned.
Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Agartala (Tripura), October 21, 2024 : The security situation in Agartala has once again come under scrutiny following a shocking incident over the weekend that left residents alarmed and questioning the effectiveness of local law enforcement.
On Saturday night, a young man named Sameer Das was kidnapped and brutally assaulted by a group of 10 to 12 individuals in a premeditated attack stemming from personal enmity. Witnesses reported that the assailants used bikes and cars to abduct Sameer from Adviser Chowmuhani and subsequently beat him in a secluded area near Heritage Park. Fortunately, concerned bystanders intervened and managed to rescue him.
Following the incident, Sameer’s family promptly filed a report at the West Agartala Police Station, leading to the arrest of three suspects: Abir Chakraborty, Vishal Biswas, and Arghyadeep Lodh. These individuals were apprehended in various localities, including Gorkhabasti, Indranagar, and Arundhatinagar. The police have also seized a luxury car, identified by the registration number TR 01 CB 0521, believed to have been used in the kidnapping.
The Officer-in-Charge of the West Agartala Police Station confirmed that a case has been registered under specific sections of the law, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend additional suspects involved in the attack.
While this incident is alarming, it highlights a growing trend of disorder in Agartala. Residents report increasing chaos in areas such as North Gate, RMS Choumuhani, and Heritage Park, where groups of unruly youths have been congregating, causing significant disruptions. Locals express fear and frustration, as these groups often engage in inappropriate behavior, including public drinking and harassment of passersby, creating an environment of intimidation.
There are mounting concerns regarding the inaction of local police, with residents alleging that officers from the East Agartala, West Agartala, and NCC police stations have failed to address these issues adequately. Many feel unsafe speaking out against the rising criminal activity, fearing potential repercussions.
The local community is calling for urgent intervention, as the situation continues to deteriorate. There are reports of increased criminal incidents over the past few months, prompting accusations against police leadership for failing to maintain law and order. Critics argue that this decline can be attributed to the mismanagement by government authorities, fueling public protests and dissatisfaction.
As Agartala grapples with these escalating security challenges, residents hope for a swift response from local law enforcement to restore safety and peace in their neighborhoods. The community’s resilience and courage to confront these issues will be crucial in addressing the root causes of the growing lawlessness in the capital.
KalimNews, October 8, 2024, Kalimpong: In a remarkable achievement for Rockvale Academy of Kalimpong, two students have been selected to represent their school in the upcoming National Boxing Championship organized by the School Games Federation of India (SGFI). This milestone comes after the students, Chhuman Tamang and Seamima Subba, both competing in the under-19 category, secured gold medals in their respective weight classes at the West Bengal and Northeast Region level of the CISCE National School Games & Sports.
Capt. Prakash Mani Pradhan, Principal of the Rockvale Academy praised the students for their outstanding accomplishments, highlighting the significance of this achievement for the academy and the broader CISCE community. “It is a proud moment for Rockvale Academy to have our students compete at the national level, showcasing their hard work and dedication,” he stated.
Since the CISCE and CBSE affiliations to SGFI in 2018, Rockvale Academy has actively participated in a range of sports, including volleyball, badminton, table tennis, karate, and yoga. The academy has consistently demonstrated its commitment to fostering athletic talent, with students competing across 35 different events.
Chhuman Tamang and Seamima Subba
In addition to the two girl students of Rockvale Academy, Angela Rai from Saptashree Gyanpeeth is also participating in the national boxing championships. Chhuman Tamang (57-60 kg) and Seamima Subba (54-57 kg) will represent CISCE schools in the boxing competition, set to take place in Delhi during the fourth week of November 2024.
The academy’s athletic prowess extends beyond boxing, with notable achievements in volleyball. Krishik Basor in the under-19 category,, who secured a silver medal and was named the best player, is also selected for the national volleyball team representing CISCE. Other talented volleyball players from Saptashree Gyanpeeth and St. Augustine’s School will join him in the competition scheduled for Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, from November 6 to 10, 2024.
Rockvale Academy has also excelled in table tennis, with Abrona Pandi Lepcha earning a gold medal in the under-19 singles quarter-finals and Neyrum Tshering Lepcha securing bronze in the under-17 category.
The achievements of Rockvale Academy’s students not only reflect their individual talents but also the supportive environment fostered by their coaches, including boxing coach Suresh Rai, who also runs a boxing academy. With such a strong foundation and continued commitment to excellence, the academy looks forward to further successes in the upcoming national competitions.
Nanda Kirati Dewan, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Guwahati, Assam – The Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh, a national social organization representing Gorkhas in India, celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of Dr. Sagar Bhattarai, a postdoctoral researcher at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, on Wednesday. Dr. Bhattarai has gained international acclaim by ranking among the top 2% of scientists worldwide, as identified by Stanford University, USA.
A delegation from the Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh, led by Assam State Committee President Amar Adhikari, along with National President Nityananda Upadhyay, National Joint Secretary General Prakash Dahal, and other prominent members, visited Dr. Bhattarai’s residence in TK Grant Sipajhar, Darrang district, to present him with a ‘Citation of Appreciation,’ traditional Assamese Phoolam Gamusa, a Gorkha cap, and publications from the organization.
“This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to your dedication, hard work, and significant contributions to the field of physics and material science,” congratulated Amar Adhikari during the ceremony.
Dr. Bhattarai recently gained recognition for developing a solar device using bio-synthesized zinc oxide derived from “Gundruk,” a traditional Gorkha food. This innovative project not only showcases the potential of sustainable technologies but also highlights the intersection of cultural heritage and modern science.
“Dr. Sagar Bhattarai’s work has brought international recognition to both the scientific community in India and the traditional knowledge of the Gorkha community. His contributions set an inspiring example of how cultural heritage can address global challenges,” added Adhikari.
The ranking by Stanford University is a prestigious honor, assessing scientists based on bibliometric impact, citations, and overall research contributions. Dr. Bhattarai’s achievement reflects the significant impact of his work on the global scientific community.
Dr. Bhattarai, son of Hindi teacher Tanka Prasad Bhattarai and homemaker Jharna Bhattarai, began his education in a vernacular medium. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Gauhati University and a Master’s degree from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Arunachal Pradesh, before completing his PhD. Currently, he serves as a postdoctoral fellow at IIT-Guwahati and is an Adjunct Faculty member at Chitkara University, Punjab.
The recognition by Stanford University’s top 2% scientist ranking highlights Dr. Bhattarai’s influence, as it includes only the most impactful researchers from a pool of over 180,000 active scientists worldwide, evaluated through metrics such as citations and h-index across various scientific fields.
The Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh continues to spearhead initiatives to recognize and celebrate talents within the Gorkha community, fostering connections and building a national network of Indian Gorkhas across all sectors.
Nanda Kirati Dewan, KalimNews, 22 September 2024, Gangtok (Sikkim) : Naina Subba from Arunachal Pradesh was crowned Sikkim Miss Limbu Season 3 on Sunday during a glittering traditional cultural and talent show in Gangtok. The grand finale of Miss Limbu Season 3 and Mr. Limbu Season 1 was held at Manan Kendra, in the gracious presence of Chief Guest, Cabinet Minister of Sikkim, Shri Bhim Hang Limboo, along with Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Dr. Indra Hang Subba, and Maneybung Dentam constituency MLA Sudesh Kumar Subba as Guests of Honour. In their addresses, they encouraged the youth to connect with their communities, stay rooted in their traditions, and explore their cultural heritage.
Contestants from all districts of Sikkim, as well as from West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh, participated in the prestigious event. Naina Subba from Arunachal Pradesh won the Miss Limbu title, while Rahul Limboo from Dikchu, East Sikkim, was crowned Mr. Limbu Season 1.
Organiser and CEO of Sikkim Miss Limbu Organisation, Binita Mabo Limbu, congratulated the 2024 winners, saying, “Naina Subba is blessed with beauty, talent, and grace. She truly shone throughout the competition and deservedly won the crown. We are confident she will continue to excel in her career as an entertainer and achieve brilliance in academics too.”
In addition, Samnima Limbu from Bhaluthang and Avril Limbu from Simboley, both from West Sikkim, were crowned 1st and 2nd Runners Up, respectively.
Speaking to this correspondent, Sikkim Miss Limbu 2024 Naina Subba Tungbahwngphe expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am indebted to my roots, our ancestors, and my immediate family, especially my Yuma (grandmother), who is the sole source of my energy. I must acknowledge and thank Taaghera Ningwaphumaang, our Yumaism goddess, for showering her blessings on me.”
She added, “Sikkim Miss Limbu 2024 was never my destination but a milestone in my journey of learning about our rich Yakthung/Limbu culture and traditions. Limbu folk tales, songs, and Himalayan raw music have always been my passions. I am blessed to have met so many humble souls on this journey who have helped me explore this world. The Limboo Mahasabha in Assam provided me with a platform to perform, and the Sikkim Miss Limbu Organisation gave me the space to spread my wings. Coming from a small hamlet, Wakro Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh, with a negligible number of Limbus, I found a playground to learn and grow in the neighboring Tinsukia district of Assam.”
Naina also expressed her gratitude to the Yakthung community of Assam, saying, “A huge hug and a big thank you to the Yakthungs of Assam for their immense support in my cultural journey. I assure myself that this connection will continue. I aim to diversify my content creation on similar topics besides music videos, documentaries, and singing, all alongside my academic pursuits.”
At the event, CEO Binita Mabo Limbu, speaking to reporters, congratulated all participants and said, “We at the Sikkim Miss Limbu Organisation are proud of each of you and your contributions in representing our rich Yakthung/Limbu culture. We look forward to seeing you carry this forward and represent our tribe on national and international stages. May all the contestants continue to shine and inspire others in their journeys ahead.”
कालिमन्युज, गुवाहाटी (असम), २९ अगस्त २०२४: देशको गृह मन्त्रालय (एमएचए) ले एनआरसी बायोमेट्रिक्स र आधार जडानसम्बन्धी लामो समयदेखिको मुद्दा समाधान गर्ने हालै जारी गरेको सूचना भारतभरिका गोर्खाहरूको प्रतिनिधित्व गर्ने राष्ट्रिय संगठन, भारतीय गोर्खा परिसंघ (बीजीपी) ले स्वागत गरेको छ। यस निर्णयले असमका करिब ९.३५ लाख मानिसहरूलाई, जसमा एक लाखभन्दा बढी गोर्खाहरू पनि छन्, राहत दिने अपेक्षा गरिएको छ।
बीजीपीको असम राज्य समितिका महासचिव नन्द किराती देवानले गृह मन्त्रालयको सूचनाको प्रशंसा गर्दै भारतीय गोर्खा परिसंघले यस बायोमेट्रिक्स मुद्दालाई समाधान गर्न भारतीय विशिष्ट पहिचान प्राधिकरण (यूआईडीएआई), भारतका रजिस्ट्रार जनरल (आरजीआई) र गृह मन्त्रालयसँग दस वर्षभन्दा बढी समयदेखि निरन्तर रूपमा संलग्न रहेको कुरा उल्लेख गरे। यो वकालती जिल्ला आयुक्तहरू र असम सरकारदेखि गृह मन्त्रालयका संयुक्त सचिवसम्मका विभिन्न तहहरूमा गरिएको थियो।
देवानले १८ जुन २०२४ मा, बीजीपीले आफ्नो पूर्व प्रतिनिधित्वहरूको सम्झना गराउन एक पत्र (नं. २००१६/१/२०२४-आरओ-घाइ(ई-१४९८८)) मार्फत यूआईडीएआई अधिकारीहरूलाई स्मरण गराएको पनि उल्लेख गरे। यूआईडीएआईले संगठनलाई यो मामिला गम्भीर रूपमा जाँच भइरहेको र असम सरकार पनि प्रमुख सरोकारवाला रहेको आश्वासन दिएको थियो। देवानले मोदी ३.० सरकारको “मानवीय निर्णय” को प्रशंसा गर्दै गृह मन्त्री अमित शाहलाई धन्यवाद दिए, र यो कदम प्रधानमन्त्री नरेन्द्र मोदीको मार्गदर्शक मन्त्र “सबका साथ, सबका विकास, सबका विश्वास” को भावना झल्काउने बताए।
उनले गोर्खा समुदायको आग्रहमा लोकसभा र राज्यसभामा मुद्दा उठाउने शासक र विपक्षी दुवैका सांसदहरूको प्रयासको पनि प्रशंसा गरे। लोकसभाका विपक्षी उपनेता श्री गौरव गोगोईलाई उनको निरन्तर समर्थन र सिफारिशको लागि उनलाई धन्यबाद दिइएको जनाए | राज्यको अभिभावक संस्था असम गोर्खा सम्मेलनले विभिन्न निकायहरूसँगको सहकार्य र तथ्याङ्क सङ्कलनमा गरेको भूमिकाको पनि प्रशंसा गरेका छन।
एनआरसी प्रक्रियाको क्रममा यूआईडीएआई अधिकारीहरूद्वारा बायोमेट्रिक्सको सङ्कलनबाट विवाद उत्पन्न भएको थियो, जसले पाँच वर्षभन्दा बढी समयसम्म आधार कार्डको जारी प्रक्रियामा अवरोध पुर्याएको थियो। यसले राष्ट्रिय खाद्य सुरक्षा ऐन (एनएफएसए) अन्तर्गत सार्वजनिक वितरण प्रणाली मार्फत आवश्यकताहरूको पहुँच, बैंकिङ सेवा, प्रत्यक्ष लाभ स्थानान्तरण, स्वास्थ्य सेवा, शिक्षा, रोजगार, र अन्य आवश्यक सेवाहरूको सहुलियत प्राप्त गर्न अनि आधारभूत अधिकारहरूबाट वँचित गर्यो।
असमका मुख्यमन्त्री डा. हिमन्त बिश्व सर्माले घोषणा गरेका थिए कि केन्द्रले राज्यका ९.३५ लाखभन्दा बढी मानिसहरूका लागि आधार कार्ड जारी गर्नेछ। मुख्यमन्त्रीले गुवाहाटीमा सञ्चारकर्मीहरूलाई सम्बोधन गर्दै भनेका थिए कि आधार आवंटन प्रक्रिया २०१९ को फरवरीदेखि अगस्तसम्म एनआरसी बायोमेट्रिक अभ्यासका कारण रोकिएको थियो। उनले हालै केन्द्रीय गृह मन्त्री अमित शाहसँग यस मुद्दामा जानकारी गराएको र प्रभावित व्यक्तिहरूले १५ देखि ३० दिनभित्र आफ्नो आधार कार्ड प्राप्त गर्ने सम्भावना रहेको बताएका थिए। बीजीपीले असम सरकार र मुख्यमन्त्री डा. हिमन्त बिश्व सर्मालाई धन्यवाद व्यक्त गरेको छ |
During a search operation at Keinou Maning near the High Canal in Bishnupur district, one SMG carbine, one 9 mm pistol, nine high-explosive grenades, two smoke bombs and different types of ammunition were found, say police
PTI, Imphal, 27.06.24 : Security forces recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition during search operations conducted in parts of Imphal East and Bishnupur districts, the police said on Thursday.
Eleven grenades, six IEDs, five .303 rifles, three detonators, a carbine, one handgun, various types of bombs and ammunition, besides four walkie-talkies and two radio sets were found.
The recoveries were made during “search operations and area domination conducted by security forces in the fringe and vulnerable areas of hill and valley districts”, the state police said in a statement.
Imphal East district is in the valley area while a portion of Bishnupur district is in the hills.
During a search operation at Keinou Maning near the High Canal in Bishnupur district, one SMG carbine, one 9 mm pistol, nine high-explosive grenades, two smoke bombs and different types of ammunition were found, the police said.
In another operation at the hill ranges of Sanasabi Natum Ching in Imphal East district, five .303 rifles, two 12-bore guns, three long-range improvised heavy Mortars, one 9mm Pistol six Improvised Explosive Bombs and other items were recovered.
Meanwhile, the Assam Rifles said that the para-military force in coordination with CRPF and Manipur Police conducted a joint combing operation in Jiribam district on Wednesday after miscreants attempted to torch an abandoned house.
PTI, Imphal, Jun 23, 2024 : A fresh gunfight broke out between armed men belonging to two warring communities in Manipur, police said.
The incident took place after some armed persons opened fire towards Thamnapokpi and Lamlai areas in Imphal East district from hilltop positions in adjoining Kangpokpi district around 10.30 pm on Saturday, a police officer said.
Local village volunteers returned fire and security forces rushed to the area to bring the situation under control, he said.
The gunfight stopped after an hour and no casualties were reported, the officer said.
More than 200 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and hills-based Kukis since May last year.
India Tv, 23 June 2024 : In the latest development in violence trapped Manipur, fresh clashes broke out between the armed men in two communities, the police said.
The incident that took place on Saturday, saw some armed miscreants firing towards the Thamnapokpi and Lamlai areas in Imphal East district. The shots were fired from hilltop positions in the adjoining district of
.
The gunfight took place at around 10:30 pm on June 21, the police said. According to the police, local village volunteers did retaliatory firing while the security forces rushed to the site to bring the situation under control. An hour later guns silenced and no casualties were reported.
Jiribam violence
Earlier on June 7, violence erupted in largely peaceful Jiribam after a lifeless body of Soibam Saratkumar Singh (59) was recovered. He was suspected to have been killed by the militants, officials said. Agitated by this, locals set a few abandoned structures on fire which was followed by the imposition of curfew in the area.
Jiribam, which has a diverse ethnic composition comprising Meiteis, Muslims, Nagas, Kukis and non-Manipuris, had remained unaffected by the ethnic strife till the unfortunate incident. Meanwhile, suspected militants had also torched two police outposts, a forest office and at least 70 houses, prompting the authorities to transfer the superintendent of police.
Additionally, a contingent of more than 70 state police commandos was airlifted from Imphal to Jiribam to assist security personnel in their operations against militants. After the Jiribam violence, more than 200 people were moved to relief camps in Manipur. Meanwhile, people also crossed stare borders to reach Assam’s Cachar district.
Notably, the ethnic violence started in Manipur in May last year. Since then, more than 200 people have lost their lives and thousands have been rendered homeless between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and hills-based Kukis.
More than 200 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence in Manipur between hills-based Kuki-Zo people and Imphal Valley-based Meiteis since May last year
PTI, Jun 21 2024, Imphal : Noting that ethnic strife-torn Manipur was going through a difficult phase, Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Friday asserted that his government will lay the path for betterment of the society.
Speaking at the state-level International Yoga Day function at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, Singh said the current situation in Manipur is a turning point for indigenous people and their future and if things are tackled wisely, a safe and secure future is guaranteed.
“We shouldn’t allow emotions and politics to drive our actions, and in the process divert from the core issues. We know we are tired… but we have to endure it for a few more days. We cannot be happy without going through a tough phase,” he said.
More than 200 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence in Manipur between hills-based Kuki-Zo people and Imphal Valley-based Meiteis since May last year.
Agencies: He urged people to strive for peace and “identify and face the real enemies of the state”. While speaking at an event, Singh said, “We are passing through a difficult phase. This is not the first time that we are facing a difficult phase. During the 1992-93 ethnic conflict, more than 1000 lives were lost. Today, we are struggling. We are dealing with elements who want to break up a state with more than 2,000 years of history.”
The Chief Minister further said that the state had not slept for more than nine months now, adding that more than 3,000 state forces have been deployed in peripheral areas.
Singh appealed to the people of the state not to foment disturbance in Imphal valley.
“Let the valley be peaceful. Let the protection of Manipur be our sole duty. No more rallies. Let’s identify and face the real enemies of the state,” he said.
The Chief Minister also said the state had improved a lot during the last six years, and the relationship between police and people had improved.
“However, we cannot tolerate elements who want to destroy the state by supplying drugs, by engaging in widespread deforestation and poppy cultivation and bringing in illegal immigrants from outside. We need to unite and stop making allegations. There may be lapses, but we need to forgive and forget to save the land,” said the Chief Minister.
The Chief Minister made these statements at an event where he laid the foundation stone for the Imphal Ring Road Project, worth Rs 1,766 crore, at Takyel Khongbal Maning Leikai.
The Manipur government has undertaken this much-anticipated project with the objective of easing the problem of traffic congestion in Imphal areas, with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Regarding the Imphal Ring Road project, Singh stated that the Rs 1,700 crore project was prompted by the rising population and increasing traffic congestion within the capital, Imphal.
Asem Bhakta, KalimNews, 19 June 2024, Imphal : Dr. Beoncy Laishram, a 32-year-old transwoman from Imphal, has gained prominence for becoming the first medical doctor among the transgender community in the entire northeast region in 2018. Despite this significant achievement, Dr. Beoncy faces challenges as her request for reissued educational certificates reflecting her current name and gender identity as “female” has been denied by the relevant authorities.
Dr. Beoncy, residing in the Kakwa area of Imphal West district, has filed a writ petition with the Manipur High Court. On June 13, the case was taken up by Justice Ahanthem Bimol Singh, who issued notices to the respondents to provide their replies. The next hearing is scheduled for July 17.
Dr. Beoncy contends that the inconsistency in her educational certificates causes significant hardship in pursuing further education and employment. She has petitioned the court to direct the relevant authorities to issue new certificates reflecting her current name and gender.
According to the petition, Dr. Beoncy was born biologically male and named “Boboi Laishram,” a name reflected in her X and XII standard, MBBS, and other educational certificates. She underwent gender reassignment surgery on October 8, 2019, and legally changed her name to “Beoncy Laishram” and her gender to “female” on her Aadhaar card. She also obtained a “trans ID card” from the district magistrate (Imphal West) on February 16, 2022, and a voter ID card on March 4, 2023, reflecting her new status.
While Dr. Beoncy’s identity is recognized as female in all government and legal records, her educational certificates still display her former name “Boboi Laishram” and her gender as male. In February, she requested new certificates from the Board of Secondary Education Manipur (BSEM), Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur (COHSEM), and Manipur University (MU), but her requests were denied.
Additionally, Dr. Beoncy has requested that the directors of the Department of University and Higher Education and the School Education Department issue a circular affirming the rights of transgender individuals to change their name and gender on educational certificates, in line with Supreme Court directives, without requiring them to resort to legal action.
Laishram helps the Nupi Maanbis in need to get healthcare access. The post-operative transwoman has stepped forth to help and give hope to the community who have suffered the most because of the COVID-19 pandemic as it has quashed livelihoods. The community has been most involved in the beauty parlour business in Imphal for financial freedom, but these have been shut amidst the lockdown. Shanta Khurai of the All Manipur Nupi Maanbi Association, a prominent transgender activist, feels that Lashiram “represents aspiration among the Nupi Maanbis. We don’t just work as beauticians.”
Santa Khurai, an iconic trans activist and secretary of the All Manipur Nupi Manbi Association (AMANA), stated that Dr. Beoncy approached the Court after consulting with the association.
Agencies: Laishram changed her name to Beoncy when she took part in Miss Trans Queen Northeast, a beauty pageant in 2013. On completing her MBBS in 2011, she decided to come out from her family in 2013. “My father was so upset he tried to kill himself,” she said in an interview with TOI, “I went right back into the closet. Around 2016, I realised I could no longer live that life. It was when I began openly identifying as a Nupi Maanbi.”
While Manipuri has known about the existence of Nupi Maanbi as an identity for very long, the community continues to be marginalised. Laishram has a good relationship with her parents now and is also has a partner from a long-term relationship. Having supportive colleagues is most important for her as she feels safe at work.
Laishram helps the Nupi Maanbis in need to get healthcare access. The post-operative transwoman has stepped forth to help and give hope to the community who have suffered the most because of the COVID-19 pandemic as it has quashed livelihoods. The community has been most involved in the beauty parlour business in Imphal for financial freedom, but these have been shut amidst the lockdown. Shanta Khurai of the All Manipur Nupi Maanbi Association, a prominent transgender activist, feels that Lashiram “represents aspiration among the Nupi Maanbis. We don’t just work as beauticians.”
PTI, New Delhi, Jun 9, 2024 : The NIA has arrested a militant currently lodged in an Assam jail for his alleged involvement in the killing of four civilians in Manipur’s Bishnupur district earlier this year, the probe agency said in a statement on Sunday.
Lunminsei Kipgen alias Langinmang alias Mang alias Levi, a resident of Manipur, was arrested on Saturday by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) from Central Jail, Lokhra, in Guwahati under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Arms Act, it said.
He is the first accused to be arrested for the gruesome killings on January 18, when armed assailants brutally murdered four civilians near the water treatment plant at Ningthoukhong Kha Khunou, Bishnupur, the NIA statement said.
“The NIA on Saturday arrested one person, currently in Guwahati jail in another case, in connection with the killing of four civilians in Manipur’s Bishnupur district,” it added.
The assailants had opened indiscriminate fire from sophisticated weapons, leading to the civilians’ deaths, the probe agency said.
The NIA, which had registered a case on February 9, found during the investigation that Lunminsei Kipgen was actively involved in the attack, which was part of the ongoing ethnic unrest and violence in the northeastern state.
Previously a cadre of the Kuki militant outfit KNF(P), he joined another Kuki militant organisation — the United Kuki National Army — during the current spate of violence and participated in the killings, it added.
PTI, IMPHAL, JUNE 9, 2024 : The situation in Manipur’s Jiribam district remained “tense” but under control on Sunday, after suspected militants torched two police outposts and at least 70 houses in a fresh bout of violence in the state, police said.
Additional security forces have been deployed in the affected areas following the incident on Saturday, they said.
“The situation is tense but under control in the wake of violent disturbances that broke out in Jiribam district in which miscreants torched two police pickets, a forest beat office… and several houses belonging to both Meitei and Kuki communities, the Manipur Police said in a statement.
More than 70 houses were set on fire in Lamtai Khunou, Dibong Khunou, Nunkhal and Begra villages, a senior police officer said.
Police is also actively monitoring social media updates, which may incite communal feelings amongst the communities and requests general public to refrain from spreading unfounded/unverified information,” it said.
Violence broke out in Jiribam in the ethnic strife-torn state on Thursday evening, after suspected militants killed a 59-year-old man.
The person, identified as Soibam Saratkumar Singh, went missing after he had gone to his farm on June 6 and later, his body was found with wounds made by a sharp object, an official had said.
Meanwhile, an irate mob stopped a truck at Sorok Atingbi Khunou late on Saturday and reportedly torched essential commodities it was carrying, a police officer said.
A contingent of more than 70 state police commandos was airlifted from Imphal to Jiribam to assist security personnel in their operations against militants, he said.
Around 239 Meitei people, mostly women and children, have been evacuated from peripheral areas of Jiribam on Friday, and moved to a newly set up relief camp at a multi-sports complex in the district, officials added.
The state government has also transferred Jiribam SP A Ghanashyam Sharma to the post of additional director of the Manipur Police Training College, according to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms.
The transfer order was issued hours after police outposts of Jiri Mukh and Choto Bekra, and the Goakhal forest beat office were set afire on Saturday morning, they said.
Reacting to the incidents of fresh violence, newly elected Congress MP from the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat, Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, urged the Manipur government to protect the lives and properties of the people of Jiribam.
Jiribam, which has a diverse ethnic composition of Meiteis, Muslims, Nagas, Kukis and non-Manipuris, had so far remained unaffected by the ethnic strife that has been raging in the northeastern state since May last year.
The ethnic conflict between Imphal valley-based Meiteis and hill-based Kukis has led to the deaths of over 200 people, and rendered thousands of people homeless.
PTI, Kolkata, Jun 1, 2024 : Widespread violence between supporters of the TMC and the BJP over alleged electoral malpractices in strife-torn Sandeshkhali marred the final phase of Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal on Saturday, resulting in injuries to a number of people.
A 69.89 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5 pm across the nine contested seats that went to polls, several of which witnessed sporadic violence.
The Election Commission received 2,667 complaints until 4 pm, alleging EVM malfunction and obstruction of agents entering booths.
The TMC, Congress, ISF, and BJP each filed hundreds of complaints related to poll violence, voter intimidation, and assaults on agents. Despite these issues, the Election Commission stated that “barring a few incidents, the polling was peaceful”.
“Highest polling of 76.56 per cent was registered in Basirhat, followed by Mathurapur (74.13), Jaynagar (73.44), Diamond Harbour (72.87), Barasat (71.80), Jadavpur (70.41), Dum Dum (67.60), Kolkata Dakshin (60.88), and Kolkata Uttar (59.23),” he said.
Voter turnout in Baranagar bypoll until 5 pm was 66.70 per cent, the official added. Voting commenced at 7 am and was scheduled to conclude at 6 pm.
Sources suggest the turnout may increase further as long queues were observed outside polling booths.
All nine seats are presently with the TMC. In the last parliamentary polls, Basirhat, Mathurapur, Jaynagar, Diamond Harbour, and Barasat recorded 85, 84, 82, 81, and 81 per cent voter turnout, respectively.
The voter turnout in Jadavpur, Dum Dum, Kolkata Dakshin, and Kolkata Uttar was 79, 76, 69.82, and 65 per cent, respectively, in 2019.
In Sandeshkhali which comes under the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat, clashes broke out between TMC and BJP supporters over allegations of electoral malpractices.
The police used batons and tear gas to control the situation. BJP candidate Rekha Patra alleged that TMC goons stopped voters from casting their votes.
Women voters of Sandeshkhali accused the TMC of not allowing them to cast their votes freely, an allegation dubbed baseless by the state’s ruling party.
The TMC made counter-allegations and accused Patra and BJP goons of trying to vitiate the poll atmosphere.
As both groups came to blows on the Basanti Express Highway, the police resorted to baton charges and tear gas shell firing to disperse the mob.
The BJP also claimed that shots were also fired by the TMC goons.
Clashes among the police, BJP, and the TMC activists were reported from three pockets of Sandeshkhali as in several areas TMC and BJP workers were seen hurling bricks at the police.
Basirhat SP Hossain Mehedi Rahaman said three persons were injured during the clash between TMC and BJP supporters at Bayramari in Sandeshkhali, adding that one person was arrested in this connection.
Sandeshkhali’s Bermajur area has been on the boil since last night as the BJP made allegations that TMC workers, accompanied by policemen, intimidated its polling agents by visiting their homes on Friday night.
Sporadic violence was also reported in the other eight constituencies voting in West Bengal.
Clashes broke out among the TMC, ISF, and the BJP in different pockets as the parties clashed over stopping polling agents from entering booths.
A confrontation erupted in Bhangar within the Jadavpur constituency between backers of Trinamool Congress and the Indian Secular Front (ISF), with allegations of crude bombs being hurled from both sides. Police intervention ensued, triggering protests as both factions accused each other.
Angry voters of Kultuli within the Joynagar constituency threw EVMs and VVPAT machines into nearby water bodies alleging electoral misconduct.
TMC supporters have accused the ISF of orchestrating the violence to intimidate voters. Prompt action from local law enforcement led to lathi charges and the arrest of suspects in the Polerhat area of Bhangar.
In the Canning area, clashes were reported between the TMC and the BJP.
BJP candidate Abhijit Das accused the ruling party of malpractices, which the TMC denied. As Das approached a polling booth, TMC activists staged protests and shouted “Go back” slogans. In response, Das got out of his car and shouted counter slogans.
Similarly, CPI(M) candidate Patikur Rehman faced “go back” slogans from TMC workers when he attempted to visit a booth in the Canning area.
In Jadavpur, CPI(M) workers were allegedly beaten by the TMC activists and their camp offices were ransacked.
In Baranagar assembly seat, where a by-poll is on, CPI(M) candidate Tanmay Bhattacharya was allegedly assaulted when he was standing outside a booth as TMC workers accused him of trying to influence the voters.
In some areas, media persons were also injured while covering the clashes.
The TMC exuded confidence about retaining all nine seats.
“The BJP tried to vitiate the poll atmosphere. But overall the people could cast their votes and we are confident of a win,” Education Minister Bratya Basu said.
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari demanded re-polling in several booths of the Diamond Harbour constituency alleging malpractices.
“The TMC in a pre-planned way stopped the Hindus from casting their votes in various seats. We want re-polling in various booths of the Diamond Harbour constituency as the violence and irregularities have been rampant,” he said.
CPI (M) state secretary Mohammad Salim claimed that the election process in the Diamond Harbour constituency, where TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee is seeking a third consecutive term, was “fraudulent”.
Even as the impact of Cyclone Remal’s landfall started subsiding, parts of West Bengal, including Kolkata, continued to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on Monday.
Cyclone Remal impact: Widespread rainfall, red alert in two districts: Cyclone (Photo:IANS)
IANS | Kolkata | May 28, 2024 : Even as the impact of Cyclone Remal’s landfall started subsiding, parts of West Bengal, including Kolkata, continued to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on Monday.
On the basis of predictions, a red alert continued to be in place in two adjacent districts in south Bengal — Nadia and Murshidabad. The weather office has also predicted the wind speed to be high in these two districts.
Similarly, orange alert continued in eight districts — Kolkata, North 24-Parganas, South 24-Parganas, West Burdwan, East Burdwan, Birbhum, Howrah and Hooghly. There are predictions of heavy rainfall in these districts.
All these districts are located in south Bengal.
However, at the same time, the weather office has given some good news about the further weakening of Remal, which has already lost much of its strength and has converted into a cyclonic storm in the latter part of the day.
The more it weakens in the day, the more the weather conditions in the state will improve accordingly but gradually. As per forecasts, the possibility of heavy rainfall since Tuesday morning is minimal.
In Kolkata, scattered rainfall was witnessed since Monday morning, and the wind speed was more or less normal.
With train services in the south division of Sealdah and flight services at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport having resumed after being suspended for a long time, city life started springing back to normalcy.
However, train service was disrupted at Kolkata Metro on Monday morning following waterlogging at the tracks in certain places.
The India Meteorological Department on Monday informed that the Cyclonic Storm ‘Remal’ over Coastal Bangladesh and adjoining Coastal West Bengal moved nearly northwards, with a speed of 15 kilometres per hour.
“Severe cyclonic storm Remal over Coastal Bangladesh and adjoining Coastal West Bengal weakened into a cyclonic storm at 0530 p.m. on 27 May about 70 km northeast of Canning and 30 km west-southwest of Mongla. The system is likely to gradually weaken further,” IMD posted on X earlier.
Following the landfall of cyclonic storm Remal, waterlogging was witnessed in parts of Kolkata with heavy rain.
The IMD earlier informed that the storm Remal would continue to move nearly northwards for some more time and then north-northeastwards and weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm.
In Memary of East Bardhaman district a father and his son were electrocuted when they touched a banana tree connected with a live wire at their village Kalanabagram. In another case of electrocution, a 47-year-old man died on Raja Road in Panihati in North 24-Parganas this morning when he touched a live wire snapped during the cyclone and was found lying on the road.
The relentless heavy rain is hampering these operations in most of the affected areas in Hingalganj, Frazerganj, Jharkhali, Bakkhali etc. The state government has initiated relief operations, providing food, drinking water and medical assistance to the people affected.
Flights services from the Calcutta airport resumed on Tuesday after remaining suspended for 21 hours in view of the cyclone Remal, an official said on Monday
An NDRF personnel removes an uprooted tree from a road after the landfall of Cyclone ‘Remal’, in South 24 Parganas district.: File
PTI, Calcutta, 27.05.24 : Severe cyclonic storm ‘Remal’ weakened into a cyclonic storm on Monday morning, sustaining wind speeds of 80-90 kilometres per hour, following landfall around midnight of Sunday, the Met Department said.
The weather system, which lay 150 km northeast of Sagar Island at 5.30 am, brought torrential rain in Calcutta and the coastal districts of West Bengal overnight, it said.
It is likely to move northeastwards and weaken further, the department said in a bulletin.
Calcutta recorded a rainfall of 146 mm in the period between 8.30 am on Sunday and 5.30 am of Monday, it said.
The metropolis logged a maximum wind speed of 74 kmph, while Dum Dum in the northern outskirts of the city recorded maximum wind speed of 91 kmph, the weather office said.
Other places in south Bengal which received heavy rainfall during the period are Haldia (110 mm), Tamluk (70 mm) and Nimpith (70 mm), it said.
NDRF personnel remove an uprooted tree from a road after the landfall of Cyclone ‘Remal’ at Sagar Island
The weatherman has forecast more rain in Calcutta and the southern districts including Nadia and Murshidabad, with one or two spells of intense downpour, along with gusty surface winds till Tuesday morning.
Scenes of widespread devastation were evident across West Bengal’s coastal areas, with extensive damage to infrastructure and property, a day after Cyclone Remal tore through the coasts of Bangladesh and West Bengal with winds reaching speeds of 135 km per hour.
The cyclone ravaged adjacent coasts of the state and Bangladesh between Sagar Island and Khepupara, near the southwest of Mongla in the neighbouring country, after its landfall process began at 8.30 pm on Sunday, officials said.
Efforts to restore normality are underway, with emergency services working to clear debris and restore power in the affected areas.
The cyclone has led to significant disruptions in air, rail and road transportation in Calcutta and other parts of southern Bengal, they said.
Several suburban trains were cancelled in the Sealdah South section of Eastern Railway (ER), owing to the cyclone.
Train services in the section resumed at 9 am, an ER official said.
Flight services resume
Flights services from the Calcutta airport resumed on Tuesday after remaining suspended for 21 hours in view of the cyclone Remal, an official said on Monday.
The first plane to depart on Monday was IndiGo’s Calcutta-Port Blair flight at 8.59 am, while the first one to land in Calcutta was SpiceJet’s flight from Guwahati. It landed at 09.50 am, an Airports Authority of India (AAI) top official said.
Check-in was on for some other flights, the official said.
The last flight to depart from Calcutta airport on Sunday was at 12.16 pm.
Though the process of resuming flight operations has begun, it will take some more time for the situation to become normal, sources at the airport said.
‘Remal’ flattened fragile dwellings, uprooted trees and knocked down electric poles. One person was injured after being hit by debris in the Gosaba area of the Sundarbans
PTI, Calcutta, 27.05.24 : With winds gusting up to 135 kilometres per hour, severe cyclonic storm ‘Remal’ made landfall between the coasts of Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal, bringing heavy rains that flooded homes and farmland, and leaving a trail of destruction.
The landfall process began at 8:30 pm on Sunday over the adjacent coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh between Sagar Island and Khepupara, near the southwest of Mongla in the neighbouring country.
‘Remal’ flattened fragile dwellings, uprooted trees and knocked down electric poles. One person was injured after being hit by debris in the Gosaba area of the Sundarbans.
More than one lakh people were evacuated from vulnerable areas in West Bengal before the cyclone struck.
“Severe cyclonic storm Remal made landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh on Sunday night with wind speeds reaching up to 135 kmph,” the meteorological office said.
News footage showed gigantic tidal waves crashing into a seawall in coastal resort town of Digha.
The vast coastline was blurred by thick sheets of rain as the cyclone made landfall, with surging waters sweeping fishing boats inland and inundating mud-and-thatch houses and farmlands in low-lying areas.
In Kolkata’s Bibir Bagan area, one person was injured when a wall collapsed due to a heavy downpour.
Reports from North and South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore districts stated roofs of thatched houses were blown away, electric poles twisted and trees uprooted in several areas.
Streets and homes in low-lying areas adjoining Kolkata were inundated.
1.10 lakh people moved to cyclone shelters
The West Bengal government shifted around 1.10 lakh people from coastal and vulnerable areas to cyclone shelters, schools and colleges by Sunday late afternoon.
Evacuation efforts focused on relocating people from South 24 Parganas district, especially Sagar Island, Sundarbans and Kakdwip, according to an official.
PM chairs review meeting
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting to review the response and preparedness for the storm, while West Bengal Governor Dr CV Ananda Bose monitored the situation closely.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged people to stay at home and assuring them of her government’s support.
KMC swings into action
Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) authorities evacuated people from high-rises and dilapidated buildings, according to Mayor Firhad Hakim.
Hakim mentioned that 15,000 civic employees were mobilised to address post-cyclone scenarios, with equipment ready for quick removal of large uprooted trees.
The cyclone caused light rains and winds in areas like Digha, Kakdwip and Jaynagar, which is expected to intensify on Monday.
Note from IMD
The India Meteorological Department’s eastern regional head Somnath Dutta indicated that southern Bengal districts would experience increasing winds and rainfall.
Fourteen National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams were deployed across districts in south Bengal, including Kolkata. The state government has readied SDRF teams and worked with the KMC. Relief materials and quick response teams were in place.
Flights, trains disrupted
Cyclone Remal has caused significant disruptions in air, rail and road transportation in Kolkata and other parts of southern Bengal.
The Eastern and South Eastern Railways cancelled some trains, and the Kolkata airport suspended flight operations for 21 hours, affecting 394 flights.
The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata has also suspended operations.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ensured no loss of life or property at sea, with remote operating stations alerting vessels and ships. Nine disaster relief teams were on standby.
Indian Navy keeps an eye out
The Indian Navy has readied two ships equipped with Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and medical supplies, with aviation assets on standby for rapid response. Specialised diving teams and flood relief teams have also been prepared for deployment.
Red alert in Assam
A ‘red alert’ was issued for extremely heavy rainfall in seven districts of Assam, and an ‘orange alert’ in 11 districts, according to an official release.
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has alerted residents and authorities, emphasising safety measures as the cyclone, after hitting West Bengal and Bangladesh on May 26, is predicted to move towards the Northeast.
Bangladesh evacuates over 8 lakh people
On Sunday night, Bangladesh authorities evacuated over 800,000 people from vulnerable areas of the country’s low-lying southwestern coastlines to shelters.
“The cyclone has made landfall and started crossing the West Bengal coast in India through the south-west side of Mongla and Khepupara coast of Bangladesh around 8:30 pm (local time),” a met office spokesman told reporters.
Calcutta airport deserted
The terminal building of Calcutta airport wore a deserted look following the suspension of flight operations shortly after noon on Sunday due to the looming threat of ‘Remal’.
Such a sight was unprecedented, as the airport, typically teeming with activity like any other international hub, now stood deserted, save for security personnel, Airports Authority of India staff, and a handful of airline employees.
Saturday saw the airport authorities making the decision to halt flight operations for 21 hours starting from Sunday noon.
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