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2014

February  05

Supports for Nido Tania's justice pours in

JALLANDHAR Feb, 04: Along with the rest of the country, the Arunachal Student Union, Punjab (ASUP) studying in Lovely Professional University along with all the North Eastern States organized a candle march rally for the peace of its departed student late Nido Tania. The candle march started at 5pm with the students holding banners and placards that showed their angered and outrage against racism.

Altogether 2000 North East Students and students from different countries such, African, Uganda, and Bhutan participated in the rally against racism a global menace. Further ASUP expressed its heart-felt condolence to departed brave soul who fought against discrimination.

 

Fire devours Gemo Tali village

AALO, Feb 4: In a devastating fire that occurred at Gemo Tali village on February 2 at around 2.30 pm, twenty houses including SPT, MIBT shop buildings and stores were gutted completely. Huge properties are reported to have been lost in the accident. The fire that occurred was so violent that entire village was devoured within an hour. The victims are forced to stay at Primary school, Rostrum and community hall of the village. Meanwhile, sympathizers are pouring in from different corners. Jarsa Gamlin who landed at the village handed over Rs. 2, 80, 000 for the victims on behalf of his brother former Chief Minister and MLA Jarbom Gamlin. He also assured to help the victims with 50 number of CGI sheets for each victim in the event of new construction of dwelling houses. The former Minister Lijum Ronya also met the victims and donated generously in cash and kind. The Tali-Tato officers, staffs and public residing at Aalo Township too contributed essential commodities for the fire victims. The Girak Welfare Society Aalo/Itanagar is also mobilizing cash and kinds for the miserable fire victims. The District Administration under Kamba ADC is also working out the immediate relief assistance and surveying the accident site. DIPRO

 

Interview postponed

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: Due to the unavoidable circumstances arising out of economic blockade, the proposed Viva-Voce / Personality Test against advertisement no. PHED-II/SE/Coord/26/12, Dtd. Nlg. 3rd January'2013 for recruitment of Junior Engineer (Civil / Mech. / Elect.) and Surveyor scheduled to be held from 8th to 10th February 2014 has been postponed to 14th, 15th and 16th February 2014 respectively. The Practical Test for Surveyor shall be held on 12th and 13th of this month. Informing this, Er. Toko Jyoti, Chief Engineer (Coord.) PHE & WS Department stated that venue and time shall remain unchanged.

 

Economic blockade to be lifted

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The Sonitpur Superintendent of Police Sanjukta Parasar while talking to this daily informed that economic blockade against Arunachal will be lifted from tomorrow. Following violent clash at Tarasso over boundary dispute which claimed 10 lives, various Assam based organizations have blocked NH-52 and imposed economic blockade. SP further added that Sonitpur district administration has been taking every possible step to lift economic blockade.

However, sources informed that even if economic blockade is lifted, the situation may remain tense and not conducive for travelling. It is reported that hostility against Arunachal is running high along NH 52 and travelers should avoid this route until situation normalizes.

 

Itanagar to face water supply problem

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The main water supply pipe line of 150mm diameter collapsed this morning at Doria ridge due to rampant illegal earth cutting along the pipe line. As such, water supply at Raj Bhawan area, A&B sector, C-sector, Microwave area, Museum colony and six miles in Itanagar will be affected, according to an official release from EE, PHE &WS Division.

Efforts are being made to restore the line in time but may take 1 to 2 month's time for restoration due to involvement of realignment. Hence, the consumers are requested to bear with the problems and difficulties faced by the department, the release added.

 

PPA to stage sit-in dharna

ITANAGAR, Feb 04: In its executive body meeting held yesterday, the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) has decided to continue its democratic movement which was started on 17th January last. On that day PPA made peaceful procession from Ziro Point Itanagar to Banquet Hall and submitted memorandum to the State Government and given 13 days ultimatum for fulfillment its demands, however, till date there is no response from the Government side, PPA secretary general Dr Ashan Riddi said. The party decided to stage sit-in-dharna in Itanagar on February 6 as a part of second phase of democratic movement. The main demands of party are:  White paper on hydro power & dams, Financial Status, Law  and order, mines & minerals, Private Universities, immediate devolution of powers to PRIs, Municipal bodies, immediate justice to Nido Tania, lifting of economic blockade in Assam, immediate passage of legislations in Parliament to protect people from North East and immediate demarcation of inter-state boundary.

 

Science awareness camp

ITANAGAR, Feb 04: The Circle Youth Organization Yomcha (CYOY) has successfully conducted a one day Science Awareness camp on Feb 3 at Govt. Hr. Sec School, Yomcha.

The faculties of Science from R.K Mission School Aalo, principal and faculties of VKV Jirdin were present on the occasion as resource persons.

The CYOY appreciated the State Council for Science and Technology, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh for sponsoring the programme.

 

District level tournament for CM trophy in Upper Subansiri

Correspondent

DAPORIJO, Feb 4:  Four days  district level tournament for Chief Minister Trophy  began at Rijo Ground on January 30 with participants from  Nacho, Taliha, Daporijo and Dumporijo Constituencies.

Altogether 256 participants registered for different events during the district level sports competition.

Daporijo MLA Tapen Siga attending the inaugural ceremony briefed about the important of sports. He said everyone should maintain discipline in every aspect of life and the games and sports provides a platform to inculcate a sense of discipline among the youths.

While explaining the aim and objective of the tournament, District Sports Officer Gumnya Karbak, appealed  all the players to maintain sportsman spirit and abide by the rules and regulation of the game.

Beside all the participants, thousand of sport lovers witnessed the event during the first day programme.

 

Fire guts house at IG Park

ITANAGAR, Feb 4:  Informing about a fire accident that broke out at the residence of Madu Donik Rana at IG Park here on February 2 morning destroying all the properties worth forty lakhs, the Medu Abu Society has appealed to the state government to provide immediate relief to the victim.

Saying that the cause of the accident was leakage from a petrol bottle, he also requested the well wishers to help the victim in the hour of crisis.

 

Boy missing mysteriously

YINGKIONG, Feb 4: Master Mibom Boli, aged 10 years, son of Obang Boli of Pugging village, Yingkiong circle has been missing mysteriously from Yingkiong since 1st February 2014. The boy did not return home from tuition center and has been traceless till today. The Administration taking note of the occurrence has directed all concern by possible means to search the boy. Any clue or report on the matter can be contacted the following Mobile No. 9436413752, 9436826890, 9436058086. DIPRO

 

Officers bid farewell to East Siang DC

PASIGHAT, Feb 4: Officers of East Siang administration today bade farewell to the outgoing Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Srivastava who has been transferred to Itanagar to join as new State Project Director of SSA Rajya Mission. Srivastava had joined last year on 5th July and had a short but impressive tenure of seven months at Pasighat. In her address to the officers, Srivastava said transfer and posting is a part of service life but her Pasighat tenure was full of wonderful experiences and challenges. She also appreciated the officers for their cooperation in containing crimes and maintaining peace and tranquility in the township which are prerequisite for development.

SP Devender Arya and Commandant 5th IRBn Vijayanta Arya, ADC Rajesh Panyang and head of offices were present and spoke on the occasion.  DIPRO

 

Anti-leprosy Fortnight observed at Khonsa

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: Anti-leprosy fortnight is being observed at Tirap district from 30th January. In order to mark the occasion sensitization on leprosy to ASHA's was organized today at District Hospital Khonsa.

DMO Khonsa Dr K Perme explained the objectives of the Anti-Leprosy Fortnight and requested them to work sincerely in identifying the dreaded disease.

T Khako, Senior Health Educator and R Thungon, District Programme Manager were the resource persons.  Altogether 30 ASHA's from Khonsa block attended the programme, according to an official release.

 

GPF express dismay over delay reaction

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: In a meeting held today, the Galo Peoples’ Federation (GPF) expressed concern over delay in taking step to end the unfortunate economic blockade against Arunachal. They also informed that tension is rising due to boundary tension in Kamcham village of West Siang district. They appealed to Govt. to work in principle rather than giving paper release on the issue as hundreds are still stranded outside the state.  

Besides, the Federation also articulated dismay over the silence of the three members of parliament over the racial abuse and murder of Arunachal student at Delhi. It went on to question the trio’s stand in this regard. GPF suggested the parliamentarians to take up issues in the floor of the house with the support from other MPs of North-east for treating the Northeastern as Second class citizen particularly in the Country’s’ Capital.

The Federation opined that state still lacks in development work and limited resources be used in the best way for the welfare of state’s public instead of wasting it in superfluous activities.

Reiterating its demands to take concrete and strong steps to quash the Bordoloi Commission, the Galo Peoples’ Federation appealed its counterparts and Assam public to lift the blockade for regional unity and meaningful dialogue.

 

KVK hosts field day for farmers

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Lower Dibang Valley has organized a Field day on composite maize variety at KVK Farm Balek yesterday.

The programme was inaugurated by Programme Coordinator Dr. T J Ramesha who called upon the farmers to adopt scientific techniques in maize cultivation for higher production and economic returns. M Panggam, SMS (Agronomy) briefed the farmers about the scientific cultivation of the maize variety. She also highlighted the use of Maize Sheller (Tubular) in easing shelling of maize which is otherwise a laborious process.

A total of 25 farm women/farmers from different villages attended the programme. Impressed with the growth of the crop and convinced by the worth of the technology farmers expressed their willingness to adopt the technology at their field in near future.  

 

Block level training on WIFS held

YINGKIONG, Feb 4: Block Level Training on WIFS (Weekly Iron Folic Supplementation) was held at Tuting on January 30. DRCHO Dr. Appir Apang and his team gave the training to participants which included teachers, Anganwadi workers and ASHAs. Besides that ADC R D Thungon and PRI members also attended the day long programme. DIPRO

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News Impact

HM-formed team to inspect Tarasso: CM

Orgs seek end to economic blockade

 Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The union home ministry will soon constitute a high level team of top ranking officers including representatives from Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to inspect Tarasso in Balijan subdivision of Papum Pare district to probe into the January 29 incident that claimed 10 lives and left eight others injured.

This is the outcome of the plea of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki to Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde for an independent probe into the incident and his telephonic talk with Shinde later today, Tuki told a group of local mediapersons who called on him to hold discussion on steps to normalise the interstate problem arising out of the Taraso incident. However, Tuki's Assam counterpart Tarun Gogoi has demanded a CBI probe into the incident.

The team will inspect the area very soon, Tuki said, adding a similar team will also be constituted by the home ministry with representatives from Arunachal Pradesh to go into the crux of the racial remark that led to the death of Nido Tania in Delhi.

It may be mentioned here that the economic blockade along NH-52 launched by various organizations in Sonitpur district of Assam since January 30 has created shortage of essential commodities besides affecting the day-to-day life in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly state capital Itanagar, which is considered a mini India as people from all over India including Assam have been working and living peacefully in the state for decades.  

Meanwhile, various organisations of the state and prominent leaders appealed to the Prime Minister and both Assam and Arunachal Govts to intervene for lifting of economic blockade in Assam at  the earliest. The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has sought immediate intervention of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for bringing an end to the economic blockade being launched by some organizations in Assam after the violent incident that took pace at Tarasso on January 29 last.

Drawing the attention of the Prime Minister towards the grave situation prevailing in Arunachal Pradesh due to economic blockade in Assam road, the ACF in its representation to the PM said the ordinary people of Arunachal Pradesh are suffering a lot due to these blockades.

"Arunachal Pradesh is a land-locked state and the state is connected with rest of the country only through Assam. If the people of Assam resort to such hostile measures as economic blockade, then our very existence is at stake,” the Forum said.

While unequivocally condemning the senseless act of violence and bloodshed at Tarasso, the  Forum  called on the government to do everything possible to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents.  It further said the border dispute between the two states at Tarasso area cannot be solved by the ordinary citizens. It is the duty of the Central Government to address the issue, it added.  

The road blockade  is unacceptable in a democratic country like India, the ACR said adding that unless immediate action is taken it will threaten even the very unity of our country. ACF further said that any prolongation of the blockade would have disastrous consequences.  The ACF further appealed the PM to initiate confidence building measures between the people of two states for  the unity of our country.

Former MP Kiren Rijiju also has sought intervention of Prime Minister to bring normalcy and ensure smooth flow of movement of goods and people between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Rijiju said "as you are aware that a young Arunachal boy Nido Tania was brutally killed on the street of our National Capital. While we are awaiting justice to the victim of the racially motivated heinous crime, the whole of Arunachal Pradesh is simmering with sufferings under the economic blockade being enforced by the anti-Arunachal elements in Assam. As the Prime Minister as well as an MP representing NE region, we have high hopes and expectations from you at this moment of grief and agony. Arunachal Pradesh is a sensitive State yet it's people are facing the terrible brunt of economic blockade." While People of Arunachal Pradesh are being punished for no fault of theirs, why Govt of India has failed to intervene and remain silent even after a week long? It's showing the negligence on the part of the Govt of India and thereby sending a wrong signal to our people which may cast a deep indelible negative impact on the minds of the Patriotic citizens of Arunachal Pradesh, the letter said.

The Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society also strongly condemned the incident at Taraso village, where ten innocent lives were lost. The society urged both the Govts of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh to settle the dispute amicably and restore peace and harmony in the boundary area. The Society further called upon the different agitating societies of Assam not to resort to economic blockade as the common people residing in Arunachal Pradesh will face the brunt of blockade.

Book culprits responsible for Tarasso incident, says ANYA

Expressing serious concern over the economic blockade imposed by the agitating organizations in Assam following Tarasso incident, All Nyishi Youth Association has called upon the state government to book the culprits responsible for the incident.

In a representation to the chief minister, it said due to the economic blockade imposed by some Assam based organizations many lives, specially of the common people, are being affected as the transportation facilities has been completely restricted resulting into stagnancy in the movements of the people.

Coming down at the state government for announcing compensation for the victims of Tarasso incident, it said it would be more appreciable and laudable if report proves that the incident has been caused from Arunachal side.

State government should shoulder responsibility at this hour of crisis, it added while appealing to initiate steps to refill Helicopters at Naharlagun Helipad, the only way for transportation with economic blockade imposed.

It further conveyed its heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family of late Nido Tania.

ALSU pleads for end to impasse

Expressing concern over the growing tense situation in both sides of Assam and Arunachal boundary area, the Arunachal Law Students' Union (ALSU) sought immediate interventions of both the Congress governments in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam for bringing an end to the ongoing border disputes between the two sister states.

The ALSU president Tadar Tarish in a release today said that the incidents occurred in and around the border areas revealed the inefficiency of both the state governments. Tadar  further urged the state Govt to pursue the central Govt, particularly the ministry of home affairs (MHA) for immediate implementation of the  three-member commission reports on boundary for bringing  and final solution to the boundary row.  

Pointing out the protest being staged in Assam, the ALSO expressed concern over the 'deteriorating humanitarian situation in the state' and said that basic services should not be used as a tool to punish the entire population.

The ALSU calls for impartial and independent investigations to the current imbroglio  and also urged the state government to give first priority to students and the common people who are stranded at Guwahati and other places of Assam.

AAPWU urges govt to intervene

Condemning the Tarasso incident which happened on last Wednesday resulted in 10 people death, All Arunachal Pradesh Workers Union (AAPWU) today appealed to both governments of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh to intervene and resolve the impasse as soon as possible. It said that culprits involved in the incident should be brought to book and requested the people of both states to maintain peace and harmony. It also condemned the racial attack on Late Nido Tania and demanded for stringent punishment to the culprits so that such incident may not repeat in future.

 

 

President expresses deep concern

PM condemns killing of Nido Tania, promises safety

NEW DELHI/ITANAGAR, Feb 4:  Strongly condemning the killing of student from Arunachal Pradesh Nido Tania  in New Delhi recently, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today promised punishment to the guilty and effective protection to people from the North East and other parts of the country in the national capital.

Observing that "human values, amity in society, and the unity and integrity" are at stake, he said all citizens should work together to ensure that "our brothers and sisters from the North East" feel safe and secure in Delhi.

"The attack on Nido Tania is most condemnable," Singh said in a statement while commenting on the death of the Arunachal Pradesh MLA's 19- year-old son last week after he was allegedly beaten up by some shopkeepers following an altercation sparked by their taunts on his hairstyle.

He said while the actual cause of Nido's death will be known only after the autopsy report is received, "the violence which preceded his demise is tragic and shameful".

The Prime Minister said his government will make "every possible effort to punish the guilty and to provide effective protection to students and citizens from other parts of the country, especially the North East, who visit or reside in Delhi."

Singh noted that all political parties in Parliament have affirmed that every Indian should ensure that fellow citizens from the North East feel safe and that every part of the country welcomes them.

"People from other parts of the country like the North East are as much a part of the city as anyone else. All citizens need to work together to ensure that our brothers and sisters from the North East feel safe and secure in Delhi," he said.

Expressing deep sorrow over the killing of a student from Arunachal Pradesh in Delhi, President Pranab Mukherjee today said every effort should be made to bring the guilty to justice.

"The President has expressed deep sorrow and concern over the sad demise of Nido Tania. He condemned the violence which preceded Nido Tania's demise and called upon law enforcement agencies to make every effort to bring the guilty to justice and ensure the safety and security of all who live in the capital city," a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said.

Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday demanded action against those responsible for the unfortunate death of an Arunachal Pradesh student Nido Tania and announced steps to stop racial discrimination against Northeastern people. Kejriwal, who joined hundreds of people at Jantar Mantar demanding action against guilty, said necessary action would be taken against those responsible behind the attack on the basis of the magisterial enquiry already ordered by Delhi Government.

Former Arunachal Pradesh Governor J J Singh and his wife also joined the dharna at Jantar Mantar and expressed solidarity with the people of Arunachal in particular and the North East in general.

Demands for justice continue

Terming the brutal and barbaric murder of Nido Tania by few goondas as most unfortunate and clear case of racial antagonism, the PPA President Nikh Kamin in a letter addressed to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Commissioner Delhi Police and Union Home Secretary strongly urged them to book the culprits immediately   and hang them to death.

The repeated acts of crime against the people of NE region and the failure of the Delhi and the Central Govts, run either by Congress or by BJP and now by AAP is a matter of serious concern, the party said and appealed to the North East regional political front to take up the matter with PM and Union Home Minister.

Expressing deep sympathy and condolences to the members of the bereaved Nido family, Tsering Naksang Party General Secretary cum Spokesman termed the repeated acts of racial criminality as outcome of negative mindset of the dominant, comparable to that of apartheid days in South Africa.

The everyday prejudiced comments by the members of the mainstream community over the boys and girls of the NE region, calling and whistling them as Badurs, Chinkys and deriving fun out of their mannerism are everyday reality that north easterners  have to undergo while trying to survive in a so called pluralistic and secular country like India. According to Naksang, such differential treatments are often act as an stumbling block in nation building process and it is high time the national parties like Congress and BJP do a soul searching exercise. Appealing the BJP and Congress leadership to exercise restrain on taking political mileage out of the Nido Tania's incidence, the PPA CM candidate Laeta Umbrey urged for early justice to heal the wound of the Nido family and the family of every Arunachalee.

Meanwhile, Arunachal Students Union Delhi (ASUD) condemned the barbaric act of racism which occurred in national capital Delhi on January 29. Terming it as a national shame, the ASUD said that Tania was beaten up by around 8 shopkeepers which lead to his death.

ASUD, other students unions from North East and people of NE residing in Delhi had formed a joint committee and  placed demands trial of convicts under IPC Sec.302 and enactment of anti-racial law in Parliament,  suspension of suspension of police personnel who took Nido for interrogation and later brought back him in the same spot where they  repeatedly tortured him .

Earlier, ASUD executives appealed to Central Govt, Delhi Govt and Delhi Police Commissioner to speed up the process and bring back the absconding culprits to book as soon as possible.

Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) expressed deep shock at the brutal murder of Nido Tania at Delhi. He was a very bright and promising student. The ACF strongly urged upon the Delhi Govt and Delhi Police to give exemplary punishment and take concrete steps to prevent such racist attacks and murder.  The Forum conveyed condolence to the family of Nido Tania and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul. The ACF also condoled the tragic death of Habung Loder at Naharlagun. Late Loder was a promising B.A Final Year student of Patkai Christian College, Dimapur, ACF said and urged the Capital Police and Administration to unearth the cause of his death and pray for eternal peace of the departed soul.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) of Arunachal Pradesh strongly condemned the racial attack and murder of Nido Tania, son of Nido Pabitra, MLA  and  Parliamentary Secretary for Health. Late Tania, a promising youth of the state, was pursuing his graduation at Lovely University, Jalandhar, Punjab.

The racial attack of Northeasterner in the mainland India is indigestible in this present civilized society. "As every one of us know that India is land of multi-racial with distinct culture and identity, so need of hour is to regard one another and peaceful co-existence is important to build strong India.  It is fear that if racial discrimination continues against Northeasterners by the main land India, it may affect our national integration and unity in long run. The state NCP suggests Central Govt to ensure the safety and security of the North Eastern people residing in National capital New Delhi and other part of India."

The NCP urged both Delhi and the Union Govt. to expedite the investigation to arrest all the culprits at the earliest and give them exemplary punishment for the brutal murder of innocent person late Nido Tania.

In this moment of grief Gicho Kabak, State President NCP Arunachal Pradesh on behalf of rank and file of the party extended heartfelt condolence and prayed to Almighty God for eternal peace of the departed soul and give enough strength to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss cause to them.

DB alumni mourn Nido Tania

ITANAGAR, Feb 04: Don Bosco alumni in a condolence meeting at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Itanagar expressed deep sorrow and grief at the untimely death of Nido Tania.

"We share the grief of Pavitra and Marina who are both Salesian past pupils and are with them in prayer and solidarity", said Michi Paku, President Don Bosco Alumni, Arunachal Pradesh.

While offering prayers for late Nido Tania, Fr. Cyriac, Director DBYC, Itanagar who is also the delegate for Don Bosco Alumni, Arunachal Pradesh, conveyed the condolences of Rev. Fr. Nestor Guria, the Salesian Provincial of Dimapur Province.

 

 

Economic blockade fueling sense of alienation

Taba Ajum

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: As economic blockade imposed against Arunachal today enters 6th day, its effect is being felt across the state. The blockade has crippled normal life and restricted inter-state movement, especially those who have to pass through Assam is bearing brunt of it. The petrol pumps are witnessing long queue and student communities studying outside the state are not able to go back to their respective colleges due to the blockade.  The prices of essential commodities are steadily rising. There are reports that many serious patients referred to hospitals in bigger cities are fighting for survival.

The sense of anxiety and anger against this inhumane treatment is swelling across the state. Economic blockade is the worst form of punishment to any civilized human being. It is well known that Assam often resorts to economic blockade against all its neighbouring states whenever there is any dispute.  States like Nagaland and Meghalaya too had faced similar situation in the past.

While Sonitpur SP informed that economic blockade will be lifted by tomorrow, one can only hope that she is speaking truth. The inflammatory reporting about Tarasso incident by some of the Assam based media organizations has caused untold damage to age old Assam-Arunachal relation and it may take some time for normalcy to return. What is most worrying to know is that despite early warning about provocative activities being carried out by CPI (ML) leader Vivek Das in inflaming boundary row, both Assam and central governments did not take any step to stop his activities.

In May 2012, Chief Minister Nabam Tuki wrote to both Assam CM Tarun Gogoi and then union home minister P. Chidambaram informing about illegal activities of Vivek Das in Tarasso area. In his reply dated 6th July 2012, CM Gogoi accepted the role of Vivek Das in fueling tension and assured that members of Arunachal Agrasan Protirodh Samiti of which Das is the leader, will be prosecuted under appropriate section. However assurance remained in paper only and nothing was done to contain his activities. Had Assam government really taken some concrete actions at that point of time, Tarasso incident may have never taken place.

The economic blockade has further deepened the sense of alienation among people of Arunachal and it can have negative impact. Union government should understand the fact that Arunachal Pradesh shares vulnerable international boundary with hostile countries like China and Myanmar. The hostile government of these countries may use such situation to their advantage and fan anti-national activities in the state.  Central government is very much aware about boundary row between Assam and Arunachal. But still they are not taking any tangible step to solve the contentious issue.  The loss of 10 valuable lives at Tarasso is highly condemnable and proper enquiry must be carried out to trace out root cause of incident. However the agitating groups of Assam who has imposed economic blockade should understand that they are only adding fuel to the fire and alienating their fellow North East citizens by taking such extreme step.

 

 

SUMA pleads for airlifting of stranded students

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The members of Student Union Movement of Arunachal (SUMA) lead by its president Biri Tabing met political secretary to CM Bamang Tago this evening and informed him about pathetic plight of numerous Arunachalee citizen stranded at Guwahati due to economic blockade imposed by Assam. SUMA appealed to the government to arrange chopper service free of cost to airlift those stranded Arunachalee citizens, to which political secretary Tago assured every possible help.

The vice-president of SUMA Capital unit, Tarh Reekam went to Guwahati on 2nd February and met stranded Arunachalee citizen at Arunachal Bhawan, Guwahati. With the help of likeminded citizens from Assam, he managed to pave the way for many of the stranded citizens to come back home safely.

During the visit he found that people are facing tough situation due to lack of proper facilities at Bhawan. Many are living under candle light due to constant power cut. Meanwhile, the members of SUMA had hectic parley with All Assam Adivsai Students Union president David Horo and appealed for peace talk to resolve the issue. Both stressed on the need for maintaining age old relation between Assam and Arunachal. He assured to meet members of SUMA soon to have discussion in this regard. SUMA also claimed that its convenor Pebo Gyadi held discussion with All Gurkha Students Union representative of Behali and Helem area to bring solution to the issue. The Asom Jatiyabhadhi Yuba Chatra Parishad has also assured every possible help to normalize the relation between two neighbours. SUMA has appealed to the Arunachalee citizens not to panic.

 

 

AAPPTF calls for streamlining state transport department

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF) has called for streamlining of state transport department.

Addressing media persons during a Press conference on the subject, AAPPTF president Ruhi Tagung said, "Unlike other states, transport department in Arunachal is not systematic with everything in haphazard manner. No regulation for rates, no parking lots can be seen here with no stoppages either."

He informed that a representation has been submitted to the Transport Minister in this regard.

Pointing out that with the absence of stops along the NH52A here; passenger vehicles make random stoppages every 5 to 10 minutes which causes traffic congestion, Tagung said that it has been appealing the department to make it a part of STA and RTA meetings so that they can give valuable suggestion but with no response.

Saying that the slow progress of four-lane highway in the Capital is contributing to the traffic problem, he urged that the construction of four-lane highway should begin soon and said, "otherwise we will be compelled to launch democratic movement."  Claiming that the compensation amount for the construction of 4 lane highway from Hollongi to Chandra Nagar has been paid, he urged Papum Pare DC to start the work as soon as possible.

He pointed out that the construction of road from Chandra Nagar to Hollongi executed by SRK Company is to be completed by August this year.

"If the work is not completed by then, the company should be terminated," he said.

Government should also work on the early construction of Trans Arunachal highway which plans to connect all the districts of the state, it said pointing out that it would be the only solution for the harassment that Arunachalee people face with the economic blockades that neighboring states impose.

Secretary General Kipa Kanam appealed Assam Motor Transports Association (AMTA) to negotiate with the agitating organizations in lifting the economic blockade imposed at various places.

"We appeal for the protestors to not stop our vehicles in Assam. It is not only causing harassment to the people of Arunachal but to the entire North East states as 40 percent of the owners of the passenger vehicles running in Arunachal are from Assam. No solution can be arrived at by imposing blockades," he said.

Blaming the CPIML leader Vivek Das, DFO Sonitpur and the Range officer for the whole incident, he said "if it had not been for them, we would not be suffering now."

Vice president MT Anga suggested that the state education department come up with traffic awareness studies from classes 5 to 9.

"With so many accidents happening around with children, it would be a big help if these traffic awareness campaigns are included in the studies," he said also calling on the state government to include NGOs while conducting traffic awareness programmes. It also asked the SP traffic cell to check on the many minors driving across Capital here.

Saying that parking places in Itanagar have only been earmarked with no construction yet and also the many over bridges proposed across Capital complex, he called for the early construction.

The federation further condoling the demise of late Nido Tania prayed for his eternal peace of departed soul.

 

 

Arunachal Festival of Speed - 2014 concludes

Gaurav Gill emerges champion in J K Tyre car rally

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The Arunachal Festival of Speed-2014, a one of its kind event in the beautiful Dirang and Sangti Valleys took place on February 1 and 2. It was organized by the Motorsports Club of Arunachal under the aegis of the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India (FMSCI), the governing body for motorsports in the country and sponsored by J K Tyre. The festival witnessed three forms of motorsport, namely, Autocross, Rally Hill Climb and Rally Sprint, a format hitherto unseen in Indian Motorsport. The  Arunachal Times was the print media partner of the event.

The Autocross took place at the Lopon Stadium in Dirang and had around 3000 people cheering the participants.  Reigning APRC Champion Gaurav Gill took top honours and posted a time of 1:55 min in his rally prepped Polo, 2nd was Philipose Mathai from Delhi, driving an Esteem.

The event was flagged off by the Deputy Commissioner A K Singh, who also went for a spin on the track with one of the country's best rally drivers Gaurav Gill, to a lot of cheering from the crowd.

The Hill Climb took place on a 5.5 kms undulating track through a private orchard at Rungja village in the Sangti Valley, and drew a lot of spectators from the surrounding villages. The Hill Climb proved to be a handful for the competitors and saw a lot of cars breaking down and not reaching the top. Philipose Mathai who was running 2nd in the Overall Championship could not finish the Hill Climb and was on the back foot and veteran rally driver and 9 time Raid de Himalaya champion Suresh Rana posted a blistering time of 7:56 mins and caught up with him in the overall points tally. Gaurav Gill continued to dominate and won the Hill Climb as well and posted a time of 7:40 mins firmly sealing his place at the helm of the leader board.

The last event on the cards was the Rally Sprint, which took place 3 kilometers away from the Hill Climb venue in Sangti Village. The track of the Rally Sprint was 2.8 kms of sand traps and tight corners and saw the competitors make their way slipping and sliding towards the flying finish. Gaurav Gill took advantage of his first start and used the untouched track surface to his advantage and posted a time of 2:09 mins. The dog fight between Mathai and Rana went all the way down to the wire and eventually led to a tie between the two brilliant drivers and they posted a time of 2:10 mins and were jointly awarded the 2nd place.

The event saw a brilliant response from the motorsport fraternity and drivers from all corners of the country came down in a show and to support Lhakpa Tsering president of Motorsports Club of Arunachal and organiser of the Arunachal Festival of Speed.

The event went off without any incident. Tsering ahead of the closing ceremony said, "The whole idea behind the Arunachal Festival of Speed was national integration; to bring motorsports enthusiasts from across the country to Arunachal so that they get first hand experience of the region's potential as a destination for adventure sports as well as a tourist destination. The response we received was phenomenal and we wish to make this an annual affair."

The closing ceremony saw awards being given out to drivers across 6 categories.

The Overall Championship saw Suresh Rana and Philipose Mathai both with 50 point jointly win the First Runner-up prize and Gaurav Gill took home the Championship with a points tally of 75.

 

 

Tawang district level tournament for CM's trophy ends

TAWANG, Feb 04: The district level tournament of the Chief Minister's Trophy on Football and Volleyball concluded here at the Changbu Ground. Altogether 11 teams of football and volleyball (men and women) representing 3 Assembly constituencies of Tawang district participated in the district level tourney, which began on January 31.

In the men's event, Tawang Assembly constituency Football team emerged as the winners defeating 1- Lumla Assembly constituency football team whereas in the men's volleyball 3-Mukto Assembly constituency defeated 1- Lumla Assembly constituency in the finals.

1- Lumla Assembly constituency defeated 3-Mukto Assembly constituency in the women's football event whereas in the volleyball women's finals 1- Lumla Assembly constituency defeated 3-Mukto Assembly constituency.

SP Tawang Nupur Prasad gave away cash prizes of Rs 50000 each to the winner teams of football - men and women and Rs 25000 each to the runner-up teams of football - men & women.

Nitika Dev, Chairperson Women Welfare Association Tawang, presented the cash awards to the winner teams of Volleyball - men & women (Rs 50000 each) while the runner-up teams were awarded a cash prize of Rs 25000 each.

Tsangpa Tashi, Secy. (Social Service) AAPSU gave away the cash prizes for the best players - Rs 7000 each to the best player football (men & women) and Rs 5000 each to the best player volleyball (men & women).

In-charge DSO Tawang Sangey Tsering gave a detailed outline of the events of the assembly as well as the district level competitions. Congratulating the winners of the various discipline, he appreciated the players for the discipline and sportsmanship displayed by them throughout the tournament.

In a message here, the organizing committee thanked the DC Tawang Abhishek Dev for his support and guidance in conducting the event and the 38th Bn. SSB Tawang for rendering necessary assistance in making the event a grand success. DIPRO

 

 

Mahila Sammelan concludes with positive note

AALO, Feb 4: The concluding ceremony of Mahila Sammelan laid special focus on drug addiction, education, health and child care, role of women in social field, social and divine work, women rights and great women of Bharat. Dr. Linya Lollen, Medical Superintendent, Dr. Ela Chundawat, Sandeep Kavishwar, Ramesh Babu, Shraddhajagaram Pramukh, Mama Tang Ete and others enlightened the gathering on different aspects that hold relevance today.

Attending the function, EAC Tumgge Loya said that there is a provision in law to get divorced but such the act is a defeat on both wife and husband. A child is what he learns from family and parental care and attachment is essential to take along younger generation in the right direction, he said.

Raknya Tato, Chairperson, Women Handloom Cooperative Society stressed on the right to protect our faith and belief and strive constantly to reach our goal of spiritual life.

Madhavi Joshi, All India Women in-charge, Kalyan Ashram dwelt at length on history of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram and cited examples of social changes in Rajasthan and Jharkhand through women workers of Kalyan Ashram. Moji Bagra, President IFCSAP said that faith and culture are two sides of the same coin and lauded the role of AVP in maintaining the age old culture.

Hosum Ori, Secretary Women Welfare Society, Domo Ado Secretary DPTC Aalo, Jumken Doji Ete, President Organizing Committee AVP, Kenli Ete and others expressed their gratitude to AVP for showing the path of light. The camp report by Kumari Osi Bayor, Zonal Women In charge AVP revealed that 415 women delegates from 35 circles of five districts of West Siang, East Siang, Upper Siang, Dhemaji and Upper Subansiri took part in the three day long conference.

The Special attraction of the three-day Sammelan were well planned drama on social issues, traditional dances, prayer songs, patriotic songs, competition, exhibition on Sister Nivedita and colorful procession on the street of Aalo Township with VKV band party. DIPRO

 

 

Block level workshop and school rally on sanitation

TAWANG, Feb 4: The PHE &WS Sub-Division Tawang has conducted sanitation campaign under Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan by organizing block level workshop on "Management of Rural water supply schemes and sanitation-role of PRIs"  at  Kitpi Block  under Tawang  sub-division.

Er. Tarh Katung (JE) Lumberdung Section delivered his key note address while

Tenzin Jambey, Circle Officer, Kitpi  inaugurated the workshop and stated that such awareness campaign is really important in place like Kitpi Circle. He distributed the prizes to the winners of Essay competition on topic "Importance of Water and Sanitation in Rural Areas" organized by PHE & WS Division in Kitpi Secondary School.

The winners were  1ST - Tashi Dorjee Class X, 2nd - Miss Ankita Boruah Class X, 3rd - Miss Nima Choton Class VIII, 4th - Sekang Norbu Class IX and   5th - Lham Tsering Class IX & Lobsang Lama Class X.  The winners were awarded with one dictionary each, trophy along with certificates. The Essay Competition was conducted on January 31 just before the School Rally was organized. He also advised the PRI members to participate wholeheartedly in the sanitation campaign and transform the society to gain Nirmal status.

 Er. Goto Ete (Consultant M&E) PHE Tawang highlighted the challenges of Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan (NBA) and importance of community participation in creating Nirmal society.

Speaking on the occasion, resource person Dr. B Rinyo M.O Kitpi Circle gave speech on Water Borne Disease and advised all participants to take clean and safe water for daily purposes. Er. Ngurang Agung, (Consultant, Water and Sanitation) explained with power point presentation in detail about Water, sanitation and Health Linkage.

Speaking on the occasion, Er. Omkar Nath Agarwal,  JE Tawang section, with his PowerPoint  presentation, explained in detail the functions of VWSCs  and its management over handing and taking over of Water Supply Schemes in Village level.   Er. Techi Kagung, Consultant (HRD) with Power point presentation gave speech on Individual House Hold Latrine (IHHL) and also told participants about  Low cost Toilet.

On later part of the workshop, PRI members were trained about Field Test Kit for village level water quality monitoring by District Lab. Asst. R K Gupta. And Water Testing Kits were distributed to all the Gram chairpersons of the block. Altogether, 78 participants attended the programme.

 

 

Electrification in all Upper Subansiri villages demanded

Correspondent

DAPORIJO, Feb 4: Electrification in every rural area under the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) has been a long- cherished dream of the villagers in Upper Subansiri district as people specially from  Giba, Chetam and Gusar Circles have been waiting for electricity in their villages since the launching of the scheme.

Officially many villages have been declared electrified under RGGVY, which we can also witnessed in the official website of RGGVY.  On the other hand, many villagers have never seen electricity in their villages but only they could see electric pole and wire. Ironically such villages with poles and wire also officially declared 'electrification completed.'

Many contractors have undertaken RGGVY scheme in many villages including remote areas but their projects remain incomplete. It has been found in different villages that the concrete-cement has not been used in installing the machineries like transformers and erection of poles. Only ropes were used to erect the electric poles under the RGGVY scheme.

Meanwhile, Gusar Circle Youth Forum (GCYF), lead by its president Tage Bator visited entire villages of Gusar circle covering villages like Bator, Nguki, Uli, Bulo, Debom-Dera and Nipu Nidak and claimed that no transformer is installed and  the works for the electricity supply lines is not properly done.

While presenting a representation to Deputy Commissioner, Upper Subansiri, the organization expressed their dismay over the authority concern for not executing the project at the earliest. They have also demanded early installation of transformer and complete electrification in the villages.

 

 

AAPSU ratifies newly elected AMSU executives

ITANAGAR, Feb 4: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) pleaded the Deputy Commissioners of Lohit and Anjaw districts yesterday to recognize the newly elected All Mishmi Students’ Union (AMSU). Recognising the newly elected executive members of AAMSU led by its president Locholum Tayang and general secretary, Anemso Pul for the session 2014-16, the AAPSU, being the apex student organization of the state endorsed and expressed commitment to extend all possible support to the newly elected AMSU executive members for carrying out student welfare activities of the Mishmi Community in the twin districts of Lohit and Anjaw.

Meanwhile, Kamta Lapung, president AAPSU has requested deputy commissioners of both Anjaw and Lohit districts to instruct all the heads of department and other agencies concerned in their districts to extend all the necessary support to new team to carry out activities for the welfare of the Mishmi student’s community at large. The conference cum election held at Hawai on January 25th to 28th was represented by the Mishmi student delegates from every eligible school of Lohit and Anjaw including students from universities, colleges and polytechnics within and outside the state, claimed AAPSU. Reportedly, the conference was steered peacefully.

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2012

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---- Readers Forum ----

 

Loder’s death was not accident or suicide

Dear Editor,

The aggrieved and bereaved family members of late Habung Loder vehemently deplore the news report which appeared in today’s edition of “The Arunachal Times” in which it was insinuated that the death could either be an accident or suicide. My late brother was hale and hearty both mentally and physically and there is no conceivable reason for him to resort to suicide. He was a young man full of life, energy and aspirations. Moreover, neither any suicide note nor any other incriminating proof directly suggesting suicide has been recovered by the police. We have several reasons to believe that there could be a foul play behind his mysterious death. In his death we have lost a young man full of hopes and aspirations in life. We therefore appeal to the police to investigate the case in right earnest, exploring the cause from every possible angle, so that the ultimate truth is unraveled and justice is delivered to my late brother and his scores of mourning family and relatives.

Yours,

Habung Rakesh

Elder Brother of late Habung Loder

 

 

 

Cultural ignorance main cause of racism

Dear Editor,

The shocking deaths of Nido Tania, Dana Sangma, and Richard Loitam all hailing from NE states stand in sharp contrast to the official rhetoric of ‘unity in diversity.’ While it is ironic that we collectively condemn racist attacks on persons of Indian origin living in western countries but get into a denial mode when instances of the selfsame arise in our country, it is noteworthy that myriad self-determination movements in the NE region, armed or otherwise, vehemently appeal to the argument of a unique identity.

Fault lines of division were hitherto confined to the caste question. Now that the cat is out of the bag, the everyday northeastern people bear the brunt of racism. Much of the snide remarks and offensive ‘chinki’ bashing language can arguably be attributed to cultural ignorance among the masses, and as Nido Tania case is but symptomatic of a larger malaise that afflicts our very notion of India as a multicultural nation. The jocular Madrasi-Punjabi separation and the more serious Maharashtra-Bihari distinction, despite all, are treated under the rubric of India. Nido Tania case, coupled with the commonplace self-contradictory frustrations of a slant-eyed, flat-nosed inner-city yuppie, on the other hand, bring to the surface altogether different issues which the national mindset ignores at the risk of, as Tagore put it, ‘a world fragmented by narrow domestic walls.’

What the talking-heads on the Guwahati-based electronic media seemed to have forgotten in their greed for sensationalism is that sad facts such as the fragile nature of multicultural cohesion have to be resolved with an open mind. Perhaps now offers the onscreen talking-heads to recall what India stands for according to the founding fathers, re-imagine a cosmopolitan state ready to forge ahead into the twenty-first century, and not burn the already rickety bridges. Guwahati, the chinks in the non-racist armor is showing. Quit the implicit snobbery. The last time I checked my status in relation to the political world, I am still undeniably a patriotic Indian. Spare us mere ‘Ornasolis’ the tedious harangue.

Yours,

Arun Tatin,

Medical Colony, Boleng.

 

 

It’s a united fight

Dear Editor,

Through the most celebrated column of your daily, I would like to draw attention of all readers towards the overwhelming situation up here in Delhi. Protests against the racist act of barbarism in Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi has created a havoc and despoliation throughout the nation. The ongoing process efforts from all the north-eastern students residing in Delhi is discernible and perceptible, further more the great works of ASUD (Arunachal Student Union Of Delhi) is substantial in bringing out the case. I am very obliged and indebted to all the protesters that includes many of my confidante and classmates too for their efforts and endeavour.

I might not know the victim personally, but whatever happened with him could have happen with me too. So, demanding justice and acknowledging the efforts of every individual protestor, I would like to pray for the departed soul and pay my concerns for the victim’s family and loved ones.

Yours,

Robin Marbom

Jawahar Nagar,

New Delhi

 

 

Disruption in power supply is distracting us

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily I would like to express my concern about inconvenience we are facing right now because of shortage of power supply in capital complex. As it is the time for many academic as well as non-academic exams, we have to study late night and this is the only time when we can study silently without any external disturbances.

However, the time table of providing electricity is not helping us. We get power supply from 6 to 9 pm and after one hour gap from 10 to 11 pm. From 12 am onwards we get light till 5 or 6 am. My point is, we get distracted when electricity goes off. It breaks the rhythm of study. As we are preparing for one of the most prestigious exam i.e APPSCE mains, every minute is important for us. So, I on behalf of every APPSCE aspirants would like to request our power dept. to please kindly look into the matter. Looking forward and anticipating for positive result.

Yours,

Jumnya Rina

ITANAGAR

 

 

 

 

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----Editor

---- Editorial ----

 

Racial discrimination do exist in India

The nationwide protest against murder of young Arunachalee student Nido Tania at Delhi has finally attracted attention towards racial discrimination being meted out to people of North East India. The epicenter of protest at Jantar Mantar saw political class making beeline to join the protest. After Congress Vice-president Rahul Gandhi yesterday spent some time interacting with protesters and assuring every possible help to ensure justice for Tania, today Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal also joined them.

The mainstream media which for long has neglected such issue has finally woken up to the harsh reality and there is strong debate going on over it in various television channels. There are calls for enacting strong anti-racial law to tackle incident like that of Nido Tania. It’s good to see people understanding the fact that such racial discrimination does exist in this country and there is need to strongly fight against it. Hope Delhi police will not spare the persons involved in the death of  Tania and give exemplary punishment, so that his soul truly rest in peace.