March 26
2016
Cong flays PPA Govt, says nothing new in budget
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The opposition Congress party has alleged that budget 2016-17 of PPA government is copy paste of previous Nabam Tuki-led government. In a statement Bamang Felix Congress MLA and spokesperson of ousted Congress government claimed that all the initiatives reflected in this budget are a copy paste of initiatives and programmes initiated by Congress government.
"With tall claims of Chief Minister Kalikho Pul that he is a financial wizard, expectations were high in anticipation of a revolutionary and path-breaking budget-2016-17. The expectations have apparently fallen flat. There seems to be total bankruptcy of ideas since there is nothing new in this budget," stated Felix. Further he added, "Budget is not merely a statement of distribution of funds but a vision document to usher in all round development. Therefore barring the reputation of the developmental initiatives of Tuki Government, this budget has nothing more or new to offer. If one goes by the budget provisions, it in-fact appears that Pul is Tuki Government's finance minister."
Congress party also alleged that when Tuki took over rein of government in 2011, he had to inherit financial mismanagement by Pul who was finance minister. "It is very easy to criticize a decision taken in winter during the springs. What Tuki Government inherited was nothing but the inheritance of 13 years long mismanagement of Kalikho Pul as Finance Minister. The mismanagement was of optimum magnitude that the state government had no other option left lest to adopt the civil deposit system. The then state government had put on effort to first remove the dirt and stains sprayed by Pul and then managed to bring 54000 Cr for the state under fourteen finance commissions," Felix added.
"It was indeed the consistent effort and hard work put in by Tuki Government that the State received quantum leap in Fourteenth Finance Commission Grants (FFC grants) from the centre. Tuki team could convince FFC about the genuine issues, which was appreciated by the FFC and thus recommended enhanced allocation for the landlocked state of Arunachal Pradesh," Felix said.
Further he alleged, "Present PPA government led by Kalikho Pul has a different story to narrate. Despite repeated claims of having good relations with centre and boasting of bringing additional funds for the state, the entire claim appears to be hoax and just mere lip service. In practicality, the present government couldn't even manage to get the genuine grants recommended by the FFC for 2015-16. It witnessed a shortfall of Rs. 860.90 Crore, which is the attribution of actual recommendation of Rs. 7936.16 crore by FFC but state government could end up receiving only Rs. 7075.58. Similarly, our due for budget 2016-17 as per FFC recommendation is Rs. 9157.4 Cr but the Kalikho Pul led illegal government has projected Rs. 7868.9 Cr in the current budget, which is a shortfall of Rs.1288.5 Cr."
Congress also alleged that many important people oriented flagship programmes initiated by the Tuki Government has been sidelined by present government. "Skill development programmes under various departments and health insurance scheme, which benefitted lakhs of people, has taken a back seat. There is also no mention about important infrastructure schemes like CC road, Mini-secretariat, Stadium etc., which were taken up under SPA and now have been delinked by Government of India," they added.
"The main motto of this illegal government was to fight against corruption and maintain transparency in governance. But the entire claim appears to be publicity drama to garner sympathy and support of commoners who believed them blindfolded. The present RE has the maximum individual schemes that don't augur well. In addition, an order issued by Secretary Planning to keep the matter confidential raises serious brows and speaks volume about the tall claims of this illegal government. The schemes were asked to be kept secret. Can development be kept confidential? Instead of going for proactive disclosure of development plans, this government is resorting for confidentiality," stated Felix.
Connectivity to border areas a must : Pul
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Connectivity to the border areas is must for easy and faster movement of the defence forces in the border area, said Chief Minister Kalikho Pul while discussing issues related to border area with M S Rawat, Inspector General of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Frontier Sector, Shillong who called on him on Thursday in Chief Minister's Office.
Suspension bridge and CC Footsteps has to be constructed, where required, and maintained to improve the connectivity in the border areas, Pul said. The border porter track should also be maintained for facilitating patrolling in the border areas, he added.
As the defence personnel serving in border areas are living a harsh life, basic amenities like education and health should be looked into so that they can bring their families with them, he said adding that "proper huts should also be built and maintained for them."
Citing strategic importance of the eastern part of Arunachal bordering Myanmar, the CM urged to set up an ITBP Batallion at eastern zone too. He told that land would be provided at minimal rate by the people. He stressed the need for recruitment of more Arunachalee youths in ITBP as the local youths are more familiar with the local areas than others.
"It will also be of great help during emergency" he said.
Pul further urged the paramilitary forces to win the hearts and confidence of the local people and to maintain good relationship with the civilians.
The CM urged IG to place at least two dedicated Helicopters for ITBP in Arunachal for emergency services--one at Ziro for Western Arunachal and another at Mohanbari for Eastern Arunachal.
He further asked the visitors to prepare an assessment report with sector wise details of infrastructure requirements, photographs of difficult areas, hurdle as well as solutions, programme and to submit a copy of it. He said to extend full support from the State Government, district administration and the local people to them.
He also informed that the State Government will make a Single Window System for forest clearance, mines and minerals and land acquisition to facilitate the armed forces, central agencies and other private sectors for speedy implementation of their project in the state. He further urged the armed forces to work in tandem with the state govt.
M S Rawat, Inspector General of ITBP apprised the Chief Minister that connectivity as the main hurdles for the armed forces serving in border areas. He also informed that due to minimal allocation of fund to the ITBP, progress of infrastructure development in Border areas in Arunachal Pradesh is very slow and seek the support of the Chief Minister in pursuing the matter with the Centre.
He said that ITBP has highest numbers of Arunachalee youths among the armed forces and further assured to seek special quota for Border State. He informed that currently 10 ITBP Batallions are operating in the state and six more battalions have been proposed for the Border areas in Arunachal, out of which four has been approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs. He further informed that two ITBP battalions are necessary for Itanagar. He further sought a reduction in VAT from 12.5% to 5% for CSD items in the State for the welfare of the defence personnel in the state.
The Inspector General of ITBP was accompanied by Ishwar Singh, DIG, Ajay Pal Singh, DIG and Angad Prasad Yadav, Commandant, Sector ITBP.
APYC reacts to ‘vacate bungalow’ order
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Arunachal Pradesh Youth Congress (APYC) has termed the order issued by the Commissioner (Housing) against two senior Congress leaders and former ministers Tapang Taloh and Rajesh Tacho for vacating the Bungalows, as 'unlawful, biased and vindictive action' intended to harass the occupants.
According to APYC, the Commissioner (Housing), in its notification, has directed the occupants to vacate the bungalow(s) within a week failing which they will be 'forcefully evicted' from the premises.
"As expected, Kalikho Pul led government has started showing its vindictive attitude towards the Congress legislators," APYC said in a press statement while reacting sharply to the order.
"Such a harsh order issued to the senior leaders was never witnessed in the past. There are certain norms of allotment and eviction of Govt. quarter/Bungalow. Since, they are the elected representatives they also deserve bungalow like that of other elected representatives. They can continue to occupy the bungalow until an alternative accommodation is arranged by the concern authority. But asking the occupant to vacate within seven days is illogical and abnormal," APYC Spokesperson Niglar Veo said.
The APYC demanded the authority concerned to reconsider its 'biased' order and to show impartiality while allocating bungalows to the elected representatives. Also, the occupants should be given sufficient time period till the alternative arrangement is made by the allocating authority (Housing), the release said.
"Pul must understand that even after dropping of so many ministers during Congress Government they were not issued vacation orders rather allowed to retain their bungalows for an indefinite period," the APYC Spokesperson maintained.
Pul must also understand that the legality of his government is sub-judice and his arbitrary decision will be mocked by the Courts soon, he added.
Public participations is core of Smart City success: MEO
PASIGHAT, Mar 25: Smart City Mission (SCM) is not a mere urban infrastructure up-gradation mission. It is area based and intended to benefit all citizens in and around Pasighat city and people should come forward and share their valuable suggestions, said MEO Rahul Singh while holding a consultation meeting here at the Siang Hall with senior citizens, officers, leaders and NGOs.
Smart City Proposal (SCP) would be citizen oriented and the bottom-up planning based on citizen participation would be evolved based on extensive consultations with them, told the MEO.
He urged all the stakeholders including residents, traders, professionals and with all vulnerable sections of the society including socially, economically and physically deprived citizens to put forth their grievances and suggestions to make Pasighat smart and beautiful where there will be 24x7 potable water and power supplies, traffic management for vehicular and pedestrians, shopping complex, amusement parks, crowd pulling tourism infrastructures, robust IT connectivity along with educational hub and international standard health services without disturbing the ecological balance.
Singh informed that "mygov portal" has been updated with latest public opinions, radio interviews, group discussions, talk shows and other activities being carrying out by Smart City Mission office.
There are two major components in SMP. Area based development plan and PAN city proposal. Under area-based plan, two activities like retrofitting and redevelopment has already been taken up. Three options/places for were given for redevelopment and retrofitting and where citizens could select and vote one place each. In PAN city proposal, out of five projects, two would be finalized on citizens' demand. Central Government authorities was closely monitoring all developments, broadly assessed on citizen participation and would be evaluated, ensuring more marks for Pasighat in Smart City Race-2. The urban landscape of Pasighat being connected with road, rail, air and waterways can be treated favourable to make the centurion town for better living and effective engine for economic growth and revenue generations, added Singh. DIPRO
Media fraternity hails Govt. for incentives
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The press fraternity in the state has hailed the State Government for giving due importance to the media by announcing several bonanzas in the State Budget for the year 2016-17, presented by Chief Minister Kalikho Pul in the State Assembly on March 22.
Arunachal Press Club (APC) President Chopa Cheda, while expressing gratitude to Chief Minister Pul on behalf of the media fraternity, for announcing several measures to the scribes in his budget speech, said, "The PPA Government has recognized the importance of the journalists, who have been striving hard to contribute towards the state's development."
As good works never go unnoticed, the chief minister has rewarded the fraternity by enhancing the corpus fund for journalists' welfare from existing Rs one crore to Rs two crore. Moreover, he also proposed to earmark an additional amount of Rs 2 cr for construction of media colony, increasing the total allocation from Rs 3 cr to Rs 5 cr," Cheda said in a statement.
"The chief minister, who also proved his mettle to do something in reality for development of the fourth pillar of democracy, has announced to implement the advertisement policy issued vide Gazette notification 1999 and to install CCTV camera in all media houses, including electronic media of the state with central feed in the nearest police station besides, providing security personnel," he said.
The APC president urged the State Government to implement the advertisement policy within a month so as to bail out the media establishments from the dismal financial position owing to huge advertisement arrears from various government departments. He hoped the announcement would not confine to papers only.
Cheda further lauded the chief minister for keeping fund provision of Rs 1.5 cr in the budget for procurement of film production equipments to encourage and promote film production in the state besides keeping a provision of Rs 1 cr for broadcasting in electronic media.
Meanwhile, the APC president has urged the civil societies and NGOs not to pressurise the chief minister to appoint chairmen, vice chairmen, advisors and OSDs, but should allow him to work independently to lead the state to the zenith of development.
He said, appointment of chairmen, vice chairmen, advisors and OSDs would not help in streamlining the government's department but would be an unnecessary burden to the state exchequer.
"We observed lot of hues and cries in the past couple of months over change of leadership alleging huge financial mismanagement. Since now a new government has been installed so there should not be such demands otherwise all the hard works will go in vain," Cheda pointed out.
"We should create an atmosphere where the chief minister can work freely and concentrate more on developmental activities and make Arunachal a corruption free state. Let him work independently without any dictation," Cheda added.
Cheda also assured full cooperation to the state government in its development mission on behalf of the media fraternity.
Poma people adopt important resolutions
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The Panchayat leaders, elders and youths under Poma Panchayat held a meeting on Thursday and expressed serious concern over how some non-locals are trying to encroach into the village land.
In last few days many outsiders has been trying to start Jhum cultivation inside the traditional boundary of Poma, which is gross violation of tribal tradition. Strongly disapproving such activities and terming it as insult to the indigenous people, Poma Rillo Youth Welfare Society (PRYWS) in collaboration with Panchayat leaders have passed important resolutions which are to be strictly followed.
PRYWS has prohibited Jhum cultivation by outsiders within the jurisdiction of Poma Panchayat. Further society has banned selling and buying of land within village Panchayat. Also whosoever does will have to first consult the Panchayat and only after approval from them, they can proceed ahead. The villagers have prohibited fishing and hunting within Poma Panchayat. Strong action will be taken against those who violate the decision taken by villagers.
Polytechnic staff seek early bifurcation of T&HE directorate
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The members of All Arunachal Government Polytechnic Employees Welfare Association (AAGPEWA) on Thursday meet education minister Wangling Lowangdong and submitted a memorandum. The team led by its president Taba Tath and General Secretary Migom Libang discussed wide range of issues concerning welfare of employees working under Polytechnic Colleges with the minister.
The association sought early bifurcation of technical and higher education directorate in the state. Agreeing with suggestion made Governor JP Rajkhowa for separation of two directorates during the recent conference of higher & technical education, Lowangdong assured to look into the matter at the earliest. Minister also informed that soon he will personally visit Polytechnic colleges and take stock of the situation.
World TB Day observed in Arunachal
NAHARLAGUN, Mar 25: Along with rest of the world the World TB Day with the theme 'Unite to End TB' was observed throughout Arunachal Pradesh in a befitting manner on March 24.
At the Seminar Hall of Tomo Riba State Hospital, Naharlagun, Director, Health Services Dr. Moji Jini in his brief address to gathering said that increasing trend of TB is a cause of grave concern for world as a whole and we need to generate more awareness to fight TB. He also advised the Nursing students of various Nursing schools present on the occasion to concentrate on their studies and learn basic skills to have clear concept on all clinical procedures.
Chief Medical Superintendent Dr. Khrimey said that alarming rate of TB cases in the state is lack of proper dissemination of information and non-compliance by patients and also it need to put in sincere effort by all sections of society to get rid of these diseases.
District Medical Officer Papum Pare District Dr. S Ronya also advocated of need to generate awareness and education on TB from grassroots level to eradicate TB.
Dr. Mika Umpo, Microbiologist, IRL Naharlagun gave presentation on Programmatic Management of Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (PMDT) service in Arunachal Pradesh and state profile through PowerPoint.
Dr. Mika informed that cases of TB is increasing on alarming rate despite the Govt's effort to control it. Informing on various facilities available for TB diagnosis in the state, he said that people should not take symptoms of TB lightly rather they should immediately visit the nearest District Microscopic centres (DMCs) to get themselves tested for the diseases. He said that TB diagnostic facilities CBNAAT ( cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification testing) machines have been installed in 5 DMCs in Naharlagun, Yingkiong, Bomdila, Pasighat and Tezu and three others are under proposal. He also informed that CBNAAT facilitates hassle free quick detection of presence of TB bacteria in a human body and all cost are free of cost in all DMCs in the state.
Earlier, District Tuberculosis Officer Papum Pare Dr. Thongchi presented the district profile of RNTCP and appealed one and all to support the cause of TB and fight to end it.
Later on DHS Dr. Moji Jini presented certificates to two NGOs -The Missionary of Charity, Naharlagun and Prem Bhai Health Centre, Banderdewa for their relentless service to fight TB. Chief Medical Superintendent Dr. Khrimey gave away prizes to winners of literary activities.
Senior Medical Officers, students Nursing schools-Arunachal Nursing school, Jayon Nursing school and Tago Memorial School and staffs were present on the occasion. DIPRO Yupia
From our Roing Correspondent: World TB Day was organised by the District Health Society (RNTCP) headed by the District Programme Officer Dr S J Mitapo, at Golong Sisong Public School, Bolik on Thursday.
A rally was organized to mark the occasion which was followed by a public meeting in which the teachers and students of the school participated enthusiastically.
Dr Mitapo delivered the objectives of the meeting along with the key notes on World TB Day and on RNTCP programme. He also explained about the various steps required to control TB, about DOTS in RNTCP and its mechanism and functioning, explaining about the disease and its diagnosis and treatment under RNTCP Programme.
"Sputum Microscopy is done free of cost and good quality anti TB drugs supplied free of cost to TB patients for full course", he informed.
DMO Dr D.Wange also spoke about importance of observation of World TB Day saying that this type of activities will spread message, knowledge and preventive measures to everyone, and appealed to the people present their to further convey the message to their parents, friends and others.
Essay and poster writing competition was conducted in both junior and senior categories for school children during the programme which was attended by ZPM Starson Saring, ASM Joseph Pertin, DPOs, Principal, staff and children of the school, patients and Paramedical Health Workers.
World TB Day was observed by East Kameng health department by organizing a mass rally across the entire length of Seppa township on Thursday.
Later in the day, a meeting-cum-awareness programme was organized in the district hospital under the chairmanship of East Kameng DC, Deepak Shinde.
In his address, the DC suggested the Health department to adopt focus approach through identification of area or cluster from where the cases of Tuberculosis are observed incessantly to make the district a TB-free district.
'If you are curing one person you are preventing 10 persons from the infection', said the DC and urged the health fraternity to exhort the patient to undergo diagnosis and complete the medication course. He further called for rigorous persuasion and awareness through involvement of ASHAs, religious and community leaders, PR leaders and district administration.
Taking cue from the success story of Polio eradication, he directed the Health department to incorporate topics on TB in health camps and other awareness and outreach programmes.
Further, DTO (TB), Dr. N Bodi informed about the status of implementation of DOTS and RNTCP in the district. Informing that TB is considered as No. 1 killer infectious disease of adults in developing countries, he told that India accounted for one-third global TB population. While explaining about the pathogenesis of TB, its source of infection and exposure, risks of developing it, he said that every individual and stakeholder have equal responsibility to realize the dream of a TB-free world by 2030.
ZPC, M Cheda, in her address made an appeal to the ASHAs to play a proactive role in eradicating the dreadful disease. She further requested the health fraternity to extend extra care if the patient is a pregnant woman.
Physician Dr. J. Zongluzu, DMO, Dr. C Lowang Mallo, DRCHO, Dr. K Lapung along with MOs and staffs attended the meeting.
The Day was also observed at General Hospital Pasighat. A rally was organized on the occasion which was flagged off by the ANM Nursing School Principal, Bamin Yage and participated by the staffs of Pasighat general hospital and district tuberculosis hospital, members of NGO besides, ANMs, GNMs, health assistants and trainees.
Speaking on the occasion, District Tuberculosis Officer, Dr. Y Perme informed the participants about the initiatives taken by the government through RNTCP program for prevention and control of tuberculosis and highlighted its causes, symptoms and treatment.
Pasighat rape case: APSCW member meets victim
PASIGHAT, Mar 25: Member of Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW), Oter Ering Tayeng on Thursday met the 38-year-old rape victim, who was allegedly kidnapped and raped by Naku Dai of Mirsam village and Takang Saroh of Berung village on March 17. Reportedly, Pasighat Police has registered the case (No. 61/2016) under section 376 (D) of IPC and arrested both the alleged accused.
Tayeng advised the victim to avail Arunachal Pradesh Victim Compensation Scheme (2011) and other legal aids and assistance. Tayeng strongly condemned the cowardice act and demanded exemplary punishment for the rapists duo as per law.
The APSCW member also met Odo Perme, who found the victim in unconscious condition, 4 km away from her village on March 17 evening.
While interacting with Michi Yanya (SI), officer in charge of the case, Tayeng appreciated police for prompt action. She urged Yanya to expedite the investigation process so that the accused are punished immediately.
On being informed that the investigation process in rape and other related cases get delayed in the state due to non-availability of forensic laboratory, Tayeng assured to take up the issue with appropriate authority so that one forensic laboratory is established in the state and adequate force is made available at Pasighat police station to curb the increasing incidents of crimes. DIPRO
Tayeng takes stock of development works in Dambuk sub division
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Parliamentary Secretary WRD, Gum Tayeng visited her home constituency Dambuk on March 24 and 25, and conducted monitoring and inspection of the ongoing works before onset of monsoon. Tayeng visited and inspected the guide bund and boulder caging works at Sisiri river at chainage 21.6 km from Dambuk. The work is to channelize the flow of the Sisiri River under the already constructed RCC Bridge and to maintain the communication through during monsoon. She had also inspected the log bridge constructed at chainage 7 km from Bomzir village connecting Paglam circle. At the work site, the AE PWD briefed the Parliamentary Secretary about the progress of the works and the step taken to maintain surface communication in between Dambuk to Paglam during the monsoon. Tayeng expressed satisfaction over the progress of the works undertaken by the department.
Earlier in the day she had also inspected the Dambuk township road where re-carpeting works are being undertaken and also where fresh repairing works are needed for proposal. She had also inspected the helipad where the damaged tarmac needed immediate repair. Due to the damage of tarmac of the helipad, the chopper service has been suspended. Helicopter service is the only mode of going in and out of Dambuk during summer for the people of the River locked sub-division.
She expressed hope that the govt. will give priority in sanctioning the proposal already submitted for repairing of the helipad so that the helicopter service could be resumed during summer.
The Parliamentary Secretary had also visited the bridge construction site at Dibang River connecting Dambuk to Roing and expressed satisfaction on the progress of the works under taken by the NavaYuga Company.
Visiting the bridge construction over Sisiri River connecting to East Siang District at 0 point, Tayeng interacted with the engineer in charge of the company about the bridge construction work. The engineer in charge informed that the target for finishing the bridge is March 2017. She asked the bridge constructing agency to speed up their work and to tie up with the connecting road construction agency for timely and early completion of the bridge.
During her interaction with the ADC, Panchayat and public leaders at PWD IB, she had asked the panchayat leaders to advise the villagers residing near the Dotung River downstream to take necessary precaution before the onset of monsoon flood.
The Parliamentary Secretary was accompanied by Dambuk ADC Atul Tayeng, Anchal chairperson, Baling Perme, Panchayat leaders, engineer of PWD and WRD among others.
ACCI hails state budget as game changer
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Arunachal Chamber of Commerce & Industries (ACCI) with its affiliated Bazar Welfare Committees all over the state hailed Chief Minister Kalikho Pul for initiating the turnaround for the state economy.
Appreciating the CM for honouring its repeated demands for single window clearance and allocating Rs one core to operationlaise it, ACCI president Techi Lala, general secretary Tarh Nachung and chief adviser Pradeep Kumar drew his attention to turn it into a reality to encourage outside investors through such pioneering steps.
"Budget to be game changer for the state, particularly the business community suffering and incurring losses for the last few years with the market going dry as liquid cash had turned invisible," ACCI stated in a release.
Clearance of huge outstanding payments of salaries of teachers and contingent employees along with medical reimbursement and travelling allowances, not cleared for many years is one of the best move taken in the Budget. Once these employees get payment or their MR and TA allowance dues, a major chunk of fund would reach the traders. Because, GoAP employees mostly have contract with grocery shops or pharmacies for monthly purchase on credit to be cleared on receipt of salary, they said.
Moreover, this would make the employees more committed to their duties while overdue uniform allowance to police personnel would be a moral booster. This would go a long way in state's interest as peace and development are two sides of a coin and prevailing peace would instil confidence in the minds of the investors under 'Make in India initiative' , they observed. Rs 50 lakh for resource mapping for a state industrial master plan is equally laudable which would help investors to identify their respective area, they said.
Though steps to boost power generation is praise worthy but ensuring power supply to industrial unit should be ensured through mechanism as power is one of the most important ingredient of any industry.
The fund to strengthen secretariat and district administration would also facilitate procurement of materials from the market. Many allocations in the Budget would inject new life to the market thereby energising the traders to work with renewed vigour and remain ready with stock to woo the consumers.
If such tempo continued, some traders disheartened and hard hit by 'no business' syndrome considering the quit business, would be discouraged to do so which in turn would enrich state coffer as trader pay tax, they added in a release.
A prepared society is always safe: DC
PASIGHAT, Mar 25: A prepared society is always safe, said East Siang Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla holding a series of high-level meeting with the doctors, police, officers, councilors, PRI leaders and representatives of NGOs to discuss on preparedness and early launching of intensified drive aiming source reduction of dengue.
After holding a threadbare discussion and reviewing the measures taken to control spread of dengue last year, Khosla lauded the efforts of DMO Dr. M Perme and his team for good management stating that "Dengue Fever" was rearing its ugly head again in the district last year with new cases of infections but there had been no mortality. She advised to prepare suitable long-term plan for the current year along with immediate and emergency measures.
Severe water-logging due to construction activities in the township and lack of awareness amongst the common masses might become breeding grounds for the deadly Aedes mosquitoes. People must work with health authorities in preventing accumulation of materials where water gets stored allowing mosquitoes to breed, the DC said.
Municipal Council along with medical team, local leaders and NGOs should put their best efforts to destroy all breeding grounds and ensure that the disease is not spread, advised the DC. They should also conduct house to house survey spreading awareness in the society and ensure availability medical assistances in hospital, CHCs and PHCs round the clock and closely monitor and report the DC time to time, Khosla added in her deliberation.
DMO Dr. M Perme while suggesting massive cleanliness drive in the township, has said the accumulation of non-biodegradable products such as automobile tyres, plastic containers and tin products provide conducive environment for prolific breeding of mosquitoes. As preventive steps to cut short the transmission, the department was all set to carryout anti-larval work, source reduction exercise, fogging, educating the public and much more on regular basis. Adequate para-medical staffs were ready to be deployed to tackle any difficult situation and medical officers would not turn away any patient with symptoms of any kind of vector born disease.
Microbiologist Dr. B Apum and Dr. T Riso (DVBDO) presented a detailed report on precautionary measures through PowerPoint. DIPRO
No interference in duty of police personnel, says Pul
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Chief Minister Kalikho Pul today assured his full support to the police personnel in discharging their duty with assurance that there will be "no interference" from the government.
Pul said this during his interaction with the newly selected candidates of the Arunachal Pradesh Police Service (APPS) at his office.
"I understand the difficult situation in which the police personnel have to serve," said the chief minister. "They risk their career and life but they hardly get appreciation. Our government will ensure that their service is fully acknowledged."
Advising them not to be biased in their duty, Pul reminded them that their duty is towards the people and not political leaders.
"We are not to appease each other but to serve our people. We must ensure that no one takes the law for granted," Pul said.
When dealing with the law breakers, Pul said "the motive should be to reform not to punish."
"Our position demands high responsibility. We are few among the 13 lakhs population of our state selected to serve our people. We do not hold any permanent power over our position. We are mere facilitator assigned with certain duties," said the chief minister.
Also urging them to report on any lapses in the functioning of the government, he appreciated the hard work put by the candidates in passing the recently concluded test for APPSC examinations.
"I understand that many government rules are obsolete and it pains me to see that it took three years for the APPSC examinations to finally conclude. To prevent any such future inconveniences, your support to the government in taking corrective measures is highly essential," he said.
Taking serious note of the one and half month delay in joining the 11-month police training course at North East Police Academy in Shillong, the chief minister ordered for immediate expediting of all formal procedures for their immediate appointment in the services.
He also advised the selected candidates to encourage future aspirants of the civil services.
"You must share with them your stories of hardships, stories that will inspire. Keep writing in newspapers and social media," he urged.
Kera Ati village comes under BSNL network coverage
[ Karyir Riba ]
ROING, Mar 25: The Kera Ati village under Mayu-II GP and its adjoining areas have been brought under 2G and 3G BSNL network coverage with inauguration of the base transceiver station (BTS) by Rajya Sabha Member Mukut Mithi on Friday.
The BTS was installed under Saansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) programme at the Multipurpose Hall premises.
While inaugurating the BTS, Mithi urged the villagers to truly understand the meaning of ' aadarsh' and reflect the meaning in themselves.
"Not only the village but the villagers too have to become aadarsh in true sense. Be innovative and work hard for economic independence. Do not be completely be dependent upon the Government. Take up poultry farming, kitchen gardening, fishery, vegetable preservation, etc, for income generation. Self realisation is a must", said Mithi.
CGMT BSNL NE-II T.Durga Prasad said that keeping in mind the requirement of the moment, BSNL BTS have been installed in 7 towns of the district, and existing towers are being upgraded too.
"Users can access all the services provided by BSNL. They can not only make calls but can have access to internet 2G and 3G from anywhere at anytime, which can be helpful in faster development in many fields like education, self employment etc", he said.
The Kera Ati Welfare Committee, while appreciating the developmental works completed under the SAGY programme, placed a few grievances before the MP and Deputy Commissioner Ravi Dhavan for consideration.
The demands were proper garbage disposal systems, street lights, approach road and water supply for the village. The DC assured to looked into their demands on priority basis.
Maintain codal formalities: AACWA
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Apprehending misuse of developmental fund, All Arunachal Contractors' Welfare Association (AACWA) urged all departments concerned not be in a hurry in releasing LOC or make payment to any individual contractor without maintaining codal formalities as per general financial rules, CPWD and CVC manual of scheme sanctioned under RE -2015-16.
Being a civil society of State, we too have equal responsibility in making a corruption free society. We will never allow any individual or government to misuse the common developmental funds from Centre, AACWA said in a release.
Stating that lifting of civil deposit (CD) was just an eyewash by the present government as many petty contractors were not getting LoC from concern department even after lifting of Civil deposit (CD), AAWCA urged the Chief Minister to instruct the concern Secretaries and Commissioners not to hold any government file even for an hour as financial year ending is approaching fast.
Govt. to award cash incentives to sportspersons on March 27
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The State Government will award cash incentives to the meritorious sportspersons in different sports disciplines on March 27 at Banquet Hall here, informed Director of Sports Tadar Appa.
Traffic wardens rescue accident victims
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The alert Itanagar Traffic Wardens (ITW) namely Nana Ningee, Tabom Taye and Nangram Chiyup on Thursday rescued two accident victims near Legi Complex, Itanagar. The accident took place around 3.30 in the afternoon, in which both the victim received grievous injury.
The wardens immediately rushed the injured victims to RK Mission hospital, Itanagar for further treatment. The conditions of victims are stated to be stable.
Councilor Coordination meeting held
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The members of Itanagar Municipal Council (IMC) in a coordination meeting held here on March 23 discussed various issues pertaining to utilisation of corpus fund and also on the revised estimate allotted by the State Government for developmental works.
To ensure proper implementation of developmental works, effective monitoring and proper utilization of funds, a coordination committee called "Councillor Coordination Committee of Itanagar Municipal Council," was constituted with Gora Lotak as chairman of the committee and Tarh Pacho as secretary.
Army Brigadier inaugurates Sports Extravaganza by GJCMCC
AALO, Mar 25: Brigadier JS Budhwar, Commander, 5-Mountian Brigade, Aalo Military Station on Friday inaugurated the games and sports activities organized as part of Golden Jubilee Mopin Festival celebration here.
Brigadier Budhwar hailed the zeal and enthusiasm of the festival celebration committee members and Galo people of Aalo for conceiving noble idea to preserve its rich cultural heritage through celebration of the festival. Since the festival of the Galo community entered the 50 years of its celebration at community level, it will be a special moment to cherish and showcase its ethos attached to it, he said.
All traditional sports which are dying down due to lack of awareness, practice and interest among young generation, will be revived and documented this time, informed the organizers.
Volleyball for men, women and numbers of traditional events were held on the inaugural day. DIPRO
National Wash Awareness Programme
BOMDILA, Mar 25: Week-long National Wash Awareness Programme under Swachh Bharat Mission (G) to generate awareness on use of toilets, safe handling of water, use of water only from safe sources, proper sanitation and personal hygiene practices etc among the general public were organized in 17 panchayats in West Kameng district from March 16 to 22.
Leading the awareness programme, District Consultant (HRD) Techi Lug appealed to the villagers to use sanitary toilets provided under Swachh Bharat Mission (G) and avoid the system of open defection and also teach the children and old persons to use toilets. He further appealed to the PRI members and general public to construct Individual Household Toilet and keep the surrounding clean so that vision of our Prime Minister, Swachh Bharat can be achieved in by 2019.
Another District Consultant (W&S) Lame Rida spoke on proper sanitation practice, important of personal hygiene and its impact in daily life. He further explained the role and responsibility of Village Water and Sanitation Committee (VWSC) and appealed the VWSC to regularly check the water quality through Field Test Kits (FTK).
Emphasizing proper hand washing, DWSC distributed soaps to every participant.
Demonstration on safe use of toilets and hand washing along with Do's and Don'ts of personal hygiene were conducted in the programme.
The week-long campaign was conducted by a team led by Distt. Consultant (HRD) and Block Coordinators alongwith with other officials under the guidance and supervision by EE-PHED-cum-Member Secretary District Water and Sanitation committee (DWSC), West Kameng.
Garden tools distributed to farmers by ICAR - NRC on Yak
DIRANG, Mar 25: A day-long programme on 'Demonstration on Important Garden Tools and Their Distribution to the Tribal Farming Community' was conducted by ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Kameng under Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) at Sangti and Khasso on Friday. The aim and objective of the programme was to educate the farmers for adopting scientific ways of farming to enhance their production. Farmers were also motivated for the quality production, so that they can fetch good returns from the sale of their farm produce.
A total of 120 tribal farmers from five different villages of Dirang sub-division participated in the programme at Sangti and Khasso, West Kameng.
During the programme, 90 Knapsacks, 120 pruning secateurs, 120 hand hoe, 120 garden hand hoe, 120 budding and grafting knife, 120 garden tool set, 210 pruning saw, 240 sickles, 120 grubber and 30 loppers were distributed to the participants by ICAR-NRC on Yak under TSP.
Dr. N.D. Singh, Programme Coordinator, KVK, West Kameng and Dr. Vijay Paul, Senior Scientist, ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang were the coordinator of the programmes and Dr. W. Purnima Devi, Dr.Divya Pandey and A.K. Singh were the resource persons of the programme.
The beneficiaries and their representative ASM Khasso, Gobu appreciated the support provided by ICAR under TSP programme and requested for organizing more such kind of programmes for their support in future.
CCF inaugurates Germplasm Garden at Bahadur Hill
AALO, Mar 25: A Germplasm Garden, first of its kind and unique endeavour to provide a place to rejoice, rejuvenate, revitalize and unwind, in addition to conserve, preserve, protect, and save the remnants of the precious forest from the encroachers culminated with its inauguration at Bahadur Hill by CCF, Central Arunachal Circle, Pasighat, Millo Tago amidst a huge gathering of forest staffs and public on Thursday.
Speaking on the occasion, CCF Tago congratulated the members of the Aalo Forest Division for immense hard work put to realize it, particularly commended DFO Nyali Ete for his innovative idea, personal commitment and professional endeavour shown during the entire period right from its conception, planning, sourcing, funding, implementation and execution.
As a humble beginning initially, the Germplasm Garden is spread over an area of 11ha which is envisaged to have small plots of different species, mainly medicinal plants and globally significant endemic endangered species.
The Germplasm Garden has to start with a 50m long CC steps way-up with 10 nos. of plants with plant guards on both the sides, an iron-gate at the main entrance, another 50m long stone-pitched stairs up the slope, several nursery beds, a modern Green House with over 2000 nos. of seedlings of different timber trees, a water tank and a store room. To add opportunity to joggers, nature lovers, trekkers and bird-watchers, a network of bridle paths criss-crossing the length and breadth of the area is also in the offing as it has been sanctioned under CAMPA, 2014-15 only, the first installment of which has been released and subsequent works shall be carried out as and when the remaining amount will be released. DIPRO
Programme on conservation of water
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: A mass Awareness programme on conservation of water was conducted at VKV, School, Chimpu, here under the aegis of Brahmaputra Board, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, GoI, in coordination with Water Resources Department, GoAP on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering, Superintending Engineer, Water Resources Department (TW&GW) Cum Nodal Officer, Jal Kranti Abhijan VN Pandey spoke about aim and objectives of the Programme and importance of Water Conservation practices and how to save water to save the future of human being.
Quoting the example of Lathur District of Maharashtra where Section 144 was imposed to save water, he cautioned to avoid such happening in the state and urged the gathering to think about importance of water and its conservation, its proper utilization referring to them as future builders.
Rosemoyee Bhuyan of Class-VII emerged as the winner of art competition held on Wednesday to mark the occasion, while Pradipta Priyam of Class VIII and Anurag Chetia of ClassV were adjudged as second and third position holders.
Councilor of Ward No 1, Itanagar Municipal Council, Biri Tugdo gave away the prizes.
Foundation laid for Tatong Padung Football Ground
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Sri Sri Anu Swamiji laid the foundation of Shriram-Samvit Grounds housing the Tatong Padung Football ground, Ajai Basketball court, and a Volleyball court on March 21.
The play area is dedicated in gratitude to saints Sri Sri Shriram Tamhan and Swami Sri Sri Samvit Somgiriji of Bikaner.
Tatong Padung was an ace footballer and a renowned athlete who contributed immensely to social welfare without holding any public office. He is fondly remembered by family and friends for his affectionate tireless service to public life, care and love that he extended so spontaneously to all around.
The Ajai Basketball court is named in fond remembrance of Shraddha and Brig Ajai Prakash, who were great friends of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, especially children.
Swami Sri Sri Anubhavananda inaugurated the Sumati Hostel for the Apnes. The foundation for the hostel named in honour of Sumati Ramesh for her devotional services to mankind was laid by Bibha Bhattacharjee and Deepa Singh in August 2015.
Holi celebrated at Raj Bhavan
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Along with rest of the state and country, the festival of Holi was celebrated with traditional gaiety and festivity at Raj Bhavan here on Thursday.
Arunachal Pradesh Governor JP Rajkhowa and the First Lady of the state Rita Rajkhowa celebrated the festival of colours with officials and staffs of Raj Bhavan. ITBP personnel and representatives from various organisations participated in the celebration.
Interacting with the members of Raj Bhavan family and others, the Governor and the First Lady extended warm Holi greetings and wished all a wonderful year ahead.
The festival was also celebrated in East Siang with much fanfare.
Greeting the people on the occasion, Pasighat East MLA Kaling Moyong said that Holi symbolises the spirit of tolerance and harmony. He also took part in the celebrations and conveyed the message of hope, love and happiness among the people. (PRO to Governor/Correspondent)
DC inspects school
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: East Kameng DC Deepak Kumar Shinde inspected the VKV, Bana managed Ekalavya Model Residential School campus and assessed progress of construction of the school building on Thursday.
Later, while addressing parents and students in a meeting, the DC said that education should not be restricted to only bookish knowledge but should aim at moulding students' character to make them good human beings and worthy citizens of the country.
The school's Principal Dubey also spoke on the occasion.
Society demands early establishment of ATM booth
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The Pem Pow Welfare Society has today appealed to the Regional Manager SBI, Itanagar for early establishment of an ATM booth at Yachuli market.
The Society in its release today claimed that no steps were initiated to establish the same by authorities concerned despite pleas to the Regional Manager SBI, Itanagar. It has also appealed to the GoAP to take early steps to address the issue in the larger interest of the people of Yachuli sub-division.
APTETQA writes to education minister
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The Arunachal Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test Qualifiers' Association (APTETQA) has demanded immediate creation of regular PRT and TGT posts for direct recruitment of APTET qualified candidates batch-wise and year-wise. It has submitted a memorandum to the education minister in this regard.
The association has sought relaxation of age in respect of in-service SSA teachers who qualified APTET examination while regularization against the created posts and has insisted that no APTET examination be conducted till the existing APTET qualified candidates are absorbed and also that APTET should be considered as compulsory eligibility criteria for recruitment of TGT under the department of secondary education, GoI.
Recruitment of trained graduate teacher (TGT) should be conducted under the department of secondary education not by the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC), if not then qualifying APTET would have no meaning, the memo further read.
Financial literacy counseling camp held
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: More than 50 members of various SHG, farmers' club and general public attended a four-day financial literacy counseling camp (FLCC) held at Ziro which concluded on Friday. It was organized by Apex Bank in collaboration with North East Multipurpose Development Society (NEMDS) and sponsored by NABARD.
During the camp, resource persons encouraged the participants to avail various schemes of GoI like PMJDY, PMSBY, PMJJBY, APY and Got Subsidy schemes etc.
KKSU holds Aalo power department responsible
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The Kargu Kardi Students' Union (KKSU) has demanded that Aalo power department would have to bear the medical expenses of Pomo Gamlin and his family.
Pomo Gamlin along with his family met with an accident on Thursday while on their way to Itanagar for treatment of his son, Mintu Gamlin, who was electrocuted by faulty wirings.
Pomo Gamlin and his wife are now admitted in Tomo Riba state hospital, Naharlagun in serious condition while his children have suffered minor injuries.
Re-tendering demanded
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: Citing some anomalies in the Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) of dated 29. 02. 2016 for execution of various works under Sagalee/Tani Happa Forest Division, All Papum Pare District Unemployed Union (APPDUU), in a representation, appealed to the Chief Secretary to give necessary directives to the tendering authority to invite tender afresh for the said work.
Informing the CS of one of such anomalies in the NIT floated earlier, APPDUU, in its representation claimed that submission of No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the concern Gram Sabha is made one of the eligibility criteria for participation in the tender process for the said work, which according to the union, is against the CPWD and Forest Guidelines. manual/norms. According to the Union, the NIT was floated on behalf of the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh.
Vanaraja Chicks distributed
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang under the guidance of Dr. S. M. Deb, Director of the institute distributed 1600 vanaraja chicks of 15 days old along with 2400 kg of poultry feeds among the tribal farmers of Yewang village, Dirang basti, Chug village and Nykmadung village of Dirang sub-division on March 23 and 24. Around 212 tribal families have benefitted from it.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sourabh Deori, Scientist and Co-ordinator of the programme informed that Vanaraja is an improved dual purpose poultry bird developed by ICAR-Project Directorate on Poultry, Hyderabad and can be reared under free ranged system.
Vanaraja birds are very popular for rearing under backyard system. Among the farmers a folder on "Vanaraja: A dual purpose backyard poultry" published by the ICAR- National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang was also distributed.
The programme was implemented under the TSP programme "Ensuring Nutritional Security of Tribal Population through backyard population" of the institute with the active contribution of Dr. D. Medhi, Sr. Scientist, Dr. PJ Das, Sr. Scientist and Dr. D. Bhattacharya, Pr. Scientist and other technical and supporting staffs of the institute.
Switch from tOPV to bOPV
PASIGHAT, Mar 25: Trivalent oral polio vaccine will be completely withdrawn and replaced by bivalent oral polio vaccine on the ensuing National Switch Day (NSD), scheduled to be held on April-25, informed Deputy Commissioenr Isha Khosla while holding the first District Task Force meeting on NSD on Wednesday.
Highlighting the significance of NSD, Khosla said though East Siang too has achieved tremendous success in polio eradication would join with enthusiasm and zeal with the nation on NSD. She exhorted the medical fraternity to work out detailed preparedness to launch the program successful. Taking privilege, she instructed DDSE to prepare a list of all registered, unregistered and private schools and to forward the report to medical department so that medical team could conduct routine health checkup in all schools on regular basis.
DMO Dr. M. Perme and DRCHO Dr. T Gao opined that switch also must be a globally coordinated process. Any use of tOPV after April 2016 could jeopardize polio eradication by generating circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses from the type 2 component of the vaccine. Removal of OPVs would be done in a phased manner, from both routine programs and campaigns, to minimize the risk of new polio cases. The first phase of OPV removal is a switch from the current trivalent oral polio vaccine (tOPV), containing antigens for poliovirus types 1, 2, and 3, to bivalent OPV (bOPV), containing only types 1 and 3. The department will ensure validation of "NO tOPV" at all vaccine storage points in the government and of commercial suppliers and all the sterilized waste of tOPV will be disposed off safely in the district.
The meeting was attended by JDHS Dr. K Lego, DDSE Obuk Panor, DD (ICDS) PE Angu, medical officers and ZPMs as members. DIPRO
ATA unit demands conduction of DPC
ITANAGAR, Mar 25: The East Kameng district unit of Arunachal Teachers' Association (ATA) strongly appealed to the higher authority of Education Department, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh for early conduction of DPC for different categories of employees under Education Department.
The ATA unit in a release stated that the senior most teachers have been deprived from their due promotion due to non-conduction of DPC regularly on time.
Further, the rectification of 50% promotional avenues for A/T to J/T as per the RR is not yet done in spite of repeated submission of memorandum to Government by CEC ATA, the release said and strongly appealed to the Govt. to consider the matter seriously.
The ATA unit also demanded for streamlining the promotion systems on seniority basis for the greater interest of the teaching community of the State.
Editorial
Stop targeting universities
In last 2 year ever since BJP government came to power at centre universities across the country are facing wrath of the ideological battle initiated by Sangh Parivar. BJP has unleashed its student wing ABVP to instill Sangh ideologies in the campuses across the country. This is being strongly opposed by the rival student groups. It's where the problem lies. ABVP is increasingly getting emboldened by the support extended by HRD minister Smriti Irani and are using every trick to impose their imprint in the campuses.
What worries most is that now they are resorting to violent method to take forward
their fight. The first sign of rebellion against central government's move to saffronize
educational institutions started at Film and Television Institute of India (FTII),
Pune. When Actor and BJP member Gajendra Chauhan, was appointed as chairman of FTII
it lead to a massive protest. Section of FTII students are still protesting against
Chauhan. The next target of BJP government was JNU which is considered to be bastion
of left ideology. Some of the members of JNU Students Union were arrested on contentious
charge of anti-
________________________________
Readers’ Forum
An appeal to Chief Minister
Dear Editor,
Through your esteemed daily on behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh I would like to raise an important issue for the consideration of Chief Minister Kalikho Pul. For the last few days whenever people visit government offices to enquire about some scheme or for pending bill, the officer tell us that files are pending with Chief Minister. We really don’t know whether officials are telling truth or not. If we enquire too much officers get angry. So, on behalf of the people of Arunachal I would like to ask our dashing CM sir whether he is deliberately holding back department file or officers are lying and using him as excuse. There are also rumours going around that ministers, MLAs and influential people are directly bringing file to CM office and getting it cleared on the spot.
If this true it is unfortunate and uncalled for. Our CM is known to treat every person
equally and he is known to be very hard working. Therefore it is hard to believe
that government files are getting stuck in his offices. I would like to appeal CM
to clear all pending files and don’t do partiality. Not everyone is blessed like
ministers and MLAs to have easy asses to your office. There may be hundred other
files which need your urgent clearance. Many of your fellow Arunachalees are suffering
due to non-
Yours,
S Arung
Itanagar
Let best candidate be selected
Dear Editor,
We the Longding District Students' Union (LDSU) is meant for the positive innovation for peace, prosperity and harmonious stay of the people dwelling in the district and to promote quality education among the students for the rapid development of Longding district.
The recent statement issued in support of ministerial candidate by some members is not authentic. Honestly speaking we neither support Thangwang Wangham nor Honchun Ngandam because LDSU possess equal loves for both of them. We appeal Chief Minister to induct either of them into his cabinet as per your judgment.
Further through this column, we would like to sincerely request our respected leaders of LDSU not to commit blunder which defames image of union.
Yours,
Ajan Kanham (Convenor),
Chemdow Wangpan(AGS),
Ajit Wangpan
(Dy. Speaker),
Achey Wansgu(Games & Sports Secretary),
Manney Wangpan (Advisor)
(Longding District Students Union)
Right of insurgents versus victims
Dear Editor
I would humbly like draw the attention of all regarding pseudo human right activists across the globe dedicated in protecting the right of insurgents but turn a blind eye towards the rights of the victims of insurgency. When an insurgent is killed by the security forces there is so much hue and cry across the subcontinent and media; whereas, when the member of the security force lay down his/her life for the nation to secure the future of our next generations, no one cares to mention the violation of his/her rights in the hands of insurgents and enemies of a nation. No one cares for the bereaved families and their dedicationand his/her rights always go unnoticed. Neither does any voice is raised for the countless families that suffer in the hand of insurgents. We are extremely good in being selective human right activists. What supports our personal political agenda and aspiration is always a human right abuse and what supports someone else is always undoubtedly an abuse! One should deeply introspect the mass murder of innocent civilians of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II devastated by atomic bombs by global human right activists because they protected the secret rights of the western democracies and western economic interests. The broader question to ask is whether the rights of western democracies are more than the poor and ordinary citizens of developing and under developed nations.
Yours,
Saikat Kumar Basu
Lethbridge AB Canada
Comprehensive law on honour killings needed
Dear Editor,
Recently, a Dalit engineering student was hacked to death and his wife met with head
injuries in trying to save her husband on a busy Tamil Nadu street because of their
inter caste marriage that stood like a rock for eight months against repeated intimidation
and ten lakh bribe offer. It is, highly, unfortunate that the Law Commission's recommendations
to make a comprehensive law on honour killings to deliver equal punishment to the
killers, plotters and the instigators at kangaroo courts have been shelved for four
long years. The proposals also have provisions for protecting threatened couples
against false charges. Honour(!) killing is the most savage practice where cannibal
parents butcher their own children at the altar of prejudices that prevent us from
mingling with our own countrymen. It is the most menacing challenge as it throttles
our national unity and integrity. In this context, we need to revisit Tagore's lecture
titled, "Nationalism in India" which was delivered almost one hundred years ago in
1917. Tagore said, "When our nationalists talk about ideals they forget that the
basis of nationalism is wanting. The very people who are upholding these ideals are
themselves the most conservative in their social practice. Nationalists say, for
example: look at Switzerland where, in spite of race differences, the people have
solidified into a nation. Yet, remember that in Switzerland the races can mingle,
they can intermarry, because they are of the same blood. In India there is no common
birthright. And when we talk of western nationality we forgot that the nations there
do not have that physical repulsion, one for the other, that we have between different
castes. Have we an instance in the whole world where a people who are not allowed
to mingle their blood, shed their blood for one another except by coercion or for
mercenary purposes? And can we ever hope that these moral barriers against our race
amalgamation will not stand in the way of our political unity? Then again we must
give full recognition to this fact that our social restrictions are still tyrannical,
so much so as to make men cowards". Intermarriage which is undoubtedly the best means
to uphold the flag of national unity, integrity and fraternity and can go a long
way in removing the walls of prejudices among Indians, is still being brutally prevented
in our society. India Human Development Survey (IHDS) figures that while 26.9 per
cent of marriages are among inter economic group, only 6.1 per cent intercaste and
2.7 per cent interreligious marriages have taken place in our country in 2001-
Yours,
Sujit De,
Kolkata
Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector
-
All rights reserved.