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May 20

APCC reacts to Pul’s stay order

ITANAGAR, May 19: The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has reacted to the stay order of Hayuliang MLA Kalikho Pul’s expulsion.

APCC stated that Pul has misled the Honourable Court in this regard. If he thinks that he is a disciplined member of the party, he should have instead appealed to the appellate authority which is All India Congress Committee (AICC), reacted APCC president Padi Richo.

As per the provision of the Indian National Congress Constitution, Article XIX (f) (iv) clause 3 (b), it says the president of the Pradesh Congress Committee can place under suspension any committee subordinate to the PCC, any member of the PCC or the community subordinate to the PCC but not a member of parliament or AICC, if there is prima facie breach of discipline, he said clarifying to the allegation leveled by Pul that he cannot be expelled.

It is important to clarify that on March 26 last, a show cause notice was issued against Pul and a copy was sent to the high command accordingly. The high command AICC gave a nod on it. In fact, Pul himself has breached the code of conduct of INC constitution by going against the party and own ruling govt. If he is sincere enough he should have gone to the party higher authority AICC, not to the court, Richo further added.

 

AAPGEWA for timely release of salaries

ITANAGAR, May 19: The All Arunachal Pradesh Government Employee Welfare Association (AAPGEWA) has called for timely release of salaries of DRDA, NRHM, Panchayat Raj employees and SSA, APTET, RMSA, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya teachers.

In its letter submitted to the Chief Minister, it also demanded immediate release of bonus of group C & D staff, regularization of SSA teachers at one go, release of DA with effect from January 1st 2015, grant of GPF to needy employees and introduction of helicopter service in remote areas.

Meanwhile, the association has expressed its opposition to the constitution of state pay commission.

 

Global Trade Expo-2015 ends successfully

SEPPA, May 19: The two-week long Global Trade Expo-2015 organized for the first time by the East Kameng Chamber of Commerce & Industry (EKCC&I) in collaboration with  Global Marketing Company, Guwahati, Assam at Nyukum Lapang ground, Seppa in East Kameng concluded successfully.

The first ever Global Trade Expo-2015 brought every kind of global accessories under one roof and gave an opportunity to the customers to buy their choicest things which are hard to get in East Kameng district, said  Tasang Taku, organizer of the Expo.

Attending the closing ceremony of the Expo, East Seppa ZPM Raju Gyadi and East Kameng Social Welfare Cultural Organisation (EKSWCO) General Secretary Nikam Tallang appreciated the initiatives taken by the EKCC&I and hoped for development of trade and commerce in the district with better coordination from the Global Trade company in future. They also gave away prizes of the winner of the lucky draw. Business establishments from every state of the country took part in the Global Expo, stated a release.

 

AdiSU concerned over quality of building construction

ITANAGAR, May 19: Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU) has alleged use of substandard materials in the construction of the school building for Govt. Sec. School, Jaipur, Namsai.

The use of low quality materials in the construction of the teachers’ common room and headmaster’s room were found in violation of school building guidelines leading to poor quality work, alleged AdiSU in a release.

Allegedly, 8mm iron bar is used in the construction instead of 12mm or 16 mm bar required for such building. Since Arunachal falls under highly earthquake probable seismic zone-V, building constructed with inferior materials might pose danger to lives of students and teachers during natural calamities like earthquake, opined AdiSU.

Neither the DDSE, district administration nor the chief secretary have ever taken the matter seriously despite repeated pleas, lamented AdiSU. It urged the concern DDSE and Namsai MLA to inspect the ongoing construction works and instruct the contractor concerned to complete the work without any further delay by maintaining quality.

 

Kaso inspects project sites

ZIRO, May 19: Parliamentary Secretary, UD, Housing and Town Planning, Techi Kaso has inspected the construction sites of the outdoor stadium, parking area and the CC pavements in Ziro today.

While interacting with the engineers during his inspection, he emphasized on quality maintenance as the assets once created can not be dismantled. He also stressed on timely submission of Utilization Certificates to avoid delay in fund flow from the Centre.

Informing that need based schemes and projects will be given priority, he, however,  gave emphasis on land acquisition before submission of a new scheme.

He also interacted with the Bazaar Welfare Committee members and requested both the Urban Department and the Bazaar committee to work together to keep Ziro clean.

Deputy Commissioner Kanki Darang, SP Tumme Amo, UPO Nabum Kak and DUDA officials accompanied the Parliamentary Secretary. DIPRO

 

Instead of bandh call, pressurize central government: NSUI

ITANAGAR, May 19: Reacting to the demand of Chief Minister’s resignation by some organizations, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) state unit has suggested that instead of resorting to bandh call on this baseless issue the organizations should pressurise the central government on the border dispute issue with China.

The union further questioned Minister of State for home affairs Kiren Rijiju on his failure to address the Indo-China border dispute issue.

 

ACS flays AAP on CS appointment

ITANAGAR, May 19: Expressing solidarity with senior bureaucrat Shakuntala Gamlin, who is currently on media limelight with regards to her appointment as an acting Chief Secretary of AAP ruled Delhi Government, Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) has condemned AAP for opposing her appointment.

Expressing concern over repeated alleged bias against people of North East at national Capital Delhi, ACS Chairman Patey Tayum said that it was PA Sangma, the former senior Congress leader, who had faced such discrimination during the Presidential election in 2012 and now it is Shakuntala Gamlin, who is facing prejudices in her own country.

“It is very disappointing to learn that people from the region are not only experiencing unending brutality, cruelty, targeted attacks and racial abuse at the national capital but also professionally discriminated tremendously”, said the ACS chairman. He also questioned the integrity of self-proclaimed ‘righteous political party’ AAP led by Arvind Kejriwal.

 

PRA exercise under SAGY conducted

ROING, May 19: Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) exercise for Mayu-II Gram Panchayat segment under Sansaad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) was organized at Multipurpose Community Hall at Mayu-II on May 16 last.

The availability and needs of the Mayu-II and Kera-aa villages were identified through discussions and preparation of Social and Resource Mapping was done on the spot. After thorough discussion, a Draft Village Development Plan (VDP) of Mayu-II GP was also prepared. The drafted VDP would be approved by DC-cum-Nodal Officer (SASY) in presence of Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) who adopted the village and concerned committee members later.

The programme was conducted by M Dirchi, DPO-cum-Charge Officer (SAGY).

Presided over by Jayeta Meme, Gram Chairperson,  the programme was attended among others by Tage Tado, PD DRDA, Mijum Lego, DDSE, PRI members and villagers of Mayu-II Gram Panchayat segment. DIPRO

 

“Choosing the right career crucial for success in life”

ITANAGAR, May 19: Indo Global Social Service Society (SMILE) conducted career guidance and counseling for graduates and those students who have appeared or passed class-XII examination at Chimpu near here reently.

The programme was aimed to create and enable individuals acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary towards occupational exploration and career planning.

Choosing the field according to one’s interest and capability and then pursuing the same with conviction leads to success, said resource person Seema. She also made a presentation on the concept of Career Counseling and the method of tests to know one’s own interest and skill and how to select best suitable career among various options available today. With the help of power point presentation she explained how students can achieve their objective.

An open discussion with the participants and to clarify their doubts and queries on their future career was also held.

Aimed at widening the horizon of educated youth to decide their future careers, the resource persons helped the participants acquaint with numerous career options to break the age old concept of only to become engineer or doctor.

 

Former AKA gen. secy. dies

ITANAGAR, May 19: Former Arunachal Karate Do Association (AKA) General Secretary Bamang Tarang died at the age of 48 years at his Chimpu residence here today.

Tarang, 3 dan (black belt), joined Karate club in 1988 and won several medals for states, including one gold medal in open fight at North East Sports festival in 1997. He represented Arunachal in various national championships, informed AKA general secretary L Marik.

He held the post of general secretary of AKA during 2005 -06. He was also the former chief instructor of Shorin Ryu Karate Do Association of Arunachal Pradesh.

He left behind his wife, two sons and a daughter.

Meanwhile, AKA and the karate family of the state, Judo Association have deeply mourned the premature demise of Tarang and offered prayers for the departed soul.

 

Abu Rikam Charity lifts Volleyball trophy

ITANAGAR, May 19: Abu Rikam Charity Society-XI Club lifted the 2nd late Takam Tani Memorial Volleyball Tournament trophy for men's. The runner's up team was Belo Youth Sports Club.

Women's trophy was won by Belo Youth Sports Club, while Abu Rikam Charity Society-XI Club became the runner's up team. The tournament was held from May 15 to 17 last at Sakiang general ground, Mengio.

The men's winning team was awarded a cash prize of Rs.50000 and a trophy, while the runner's up team was given a cash prize of Rs.25000 and a trophy.

The women's winning team was given Rs.30000 with a trophy and the runner's up team were given Rs.15000 and a trophy.

Tarh Kaki and Lishi Boni were adjudged best players men and women.

 

Condolence

ITANAGAR, May 19: The All Mengio Students’ Union (AMSU) has mourned the demise of Nabam Tagak, who passed away on May 16 last after prolonged illness. Tagak was the HGB of Sakiang village. He is survived by his wife, two sons and six daughters.

In a release, it remembered late Tagak as a man of great values and moral. His contribution to the Nyishi heritage and society will always be remembered, it said.

 

 

Correction

Few mistakes cropped up in a news item under heading “AAPWU gave EE 10 days…” which was published on May 19 issue of this daily. The first paragraph of the news item should be read as “Dibang Vally district unit of AAPWU gave the Executive Engineer of PWD, Dibang Valley 10 days to pay/release 12 month’s outstanding wages of 16 casual workers engaged on Master Roll by the department.  The district unit of AAPWU and the PWD division in the news item were wrongly published as Lower Dibang Valley instead of Dibang Valley.

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News Impact

Four people electrocuted at Aalo, seven arrested

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, May 19: At least four people were killed today by electrocution from a leaking electric pole at Wak village, 17 km away from Aalo at around 12.40-45 PM.

Reportedly, the leakage happened after clearance of trees, which allegedly snapped a live electric pole along Aalo and Kamba transmission line leading to the terrible tragedy. The women were engaged in paddy plantation in the nearby field when the incident happened, according to a statement from the West Siang SP Mari Riba.  

The deceased have been identified as Bomrik Ete, 25 years, wife of  Gomar Ete of Bene  village, Kengam  Ete, 17 years, daughter of Mimar Ete of Wak village, Libi Ete, 15 years, daughter of  Moli Ete of Wak village and Kenyir Sora, 17 years, daughter of Bomken Sora of Wak village.

Post mortem were conducted at Aalo district hospital this evening and the bodies have been handed over to the relatives.

Meanwhile, seven persons have been arrested including junior engineer, Kamba electrical division Marjum Ete, electricians Geken Kamki, Tadik Tashung, Lingo Karga, Nyato Riram and Tomo Kamki and the contractor Modo Ete. A case has been registered at Kamba police station.

 

 

No green clearance for hydel projects in Arunachal

NEW DELHI, May 19: Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has reported to have denied the green clearance to six hydro electric projects in the state at its meeting held on April 30 , 2015.

The six hydro power projects were all proposed in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh and were expected to generate about 3,200 MW of power. The projects involved diversion of over 2,600 hectares of forest land.

“All the hydro power projects from Arunachal Pradesh were not given forest clearance for a variety of reasons. While in some cases required environmental studies were not done, in others state government was asked to provide more details. In some other cases, it was felt that excessive forest land was being diverted and the project proponent was asked to come up with a better plan and mitigation measures", a member of the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) told Economic Times.

It is also learnt that the Union ministry of environment & forests has now decided to go extra cautious with hydro power projects proposed across the Himalayan range keeping in mind recent natural disasters in the area like the devastating flash floods in Uttarakhand and the earthquake in Nepal.

 

 

Kidnapped teacher escapes unhurt

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, May 19: A resident of Doimukh area was recently allegedly kidnapped by unknown miscreants. However he managed to escape from the clutches of the kidnappers and safely returned back home. According to sources, Bittu Pandey, a tuition teacher, was kidnapped from Model Village, Naharlagun. The incident took place on 8th May around 7.30 PM.

“He had gone to Naharlagun for some medical purpose and got late. As he could not find public transport, he was walking back to Doimukh. At Model village, a black unregistered Scorpio vehicle stopped and the passenger in the front seat asked him some questions. In the meantime, the fellow passenger came out and pushed him inside the vehicle. They hit him and after that he lost consciousness,” told Yowa Jyoti, a family friend of the victim and resident of Doimukh.

They took him to Kokrajhar and kept him in a house where already three other kidnapped boys were present. The kidnappers kept on asking about the family background of Pandey.

However, two days later when the kidnappers were readying to shift them to another area, argument broke out among themselves and taking opportunity of the situation Pandey managed to escape. He somehow managed to take lift from a truck and reached Guwahati from where he contacted his family members. His father is a driver and is currently posted at Sagalee. The family members have lodged a complaint at Naharlagun police station.

Meanwhile the incident raises serious questions over the effectiveness of police check gates. “After the unfortunate Chacko kidnapping/murder incident, many police check gates have came up in various parts of the Capital. But instead of strictly checking the outbound vehicles, the police personnel harass the passengers and commercial vehicles”, said a resident of Itanagar.

 

 

AR destroys NSCN (K) camp in Changlang

ITANAGAR, May 19: A NSCN (K) camp was destroyed at Old Sallang, some seven kilometres from Changlang district headquarters today in a joint operation by the 14 Assam Rifles (AR) and Arunachal Pradesh Police.

A source said that NSCN (K) cadres had already fled the place when the security personnel reached the spot.

Some arms and ammunitions were recovered but the AR refused to divulge any details.

The 14 Assam Rifles have launched offensive against the NSCN (K) after it snapped the ceasefire agreement with govt of India in March this year.

The resurgent NSCN (K) had been in a ceasefire agreement with the centre since 1998.

Meanwhile, NSCN (K) cadres and AR personnel exchanged heavy firing on May 13 between Rangran and Changlang. Rangran is 20 kilometres from the district headquarters.

The source said that there were no casualties on both sides but this could not be confirmed.

The firing allegedly started after the NSCN cadres exploded three IEDs.

Once known to be close to the Indian Army, the NCSN (K) has carried out number of assaults against the security personnel in Nagaland as well as Arunachal since early this year.

The offensive by Security forces as well NSCN (K) is unlikely end soon as the S.S. Khaplang, the head of the underground group is now the chairman of the newly formed United National Liberation Front of West South East Asia (UNLFWSEA) comprising of NSCN(K), ULFA (Paresh Barua faction), NDFB (Songbijit) and Manipur’s United National Liberation Front (UNLF), PREPAK, KYKL and KCP.

 

 

Beneficiaries express resentment over deduction  from pension money

Karda Natam

DAPORIJO, May 19: Allegations regarding huge deduction of pension money of aged persons, disabled and widows has come to light.

According to a beneficiary, last year one of the cashiers of development branch of Upper Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Office had reportedly misappropriated the pension of disabled person, old-age and widows of two years which infuriated the beneficiaries of the scheme, thereby the pension was transferred to CDPO Daporijo for better performance. However the alleged abnormal deduction of huge money from old age, disability and widow pension this year has once against disheartened all the beneficiaries of the scheme, the beneficiary added.

The widows, disabled and old-age persons in Upper Subansiri have finally registered their grievances to the authority, when they heard about huge deduction of their pension at the concerned office citing various reasons.

In the complaint written to higher authority, they informed that earlier before the magistrate inquiry Rs. 1000 and Rs.600-Rs.700 was deducted from each beneficiary of disabled and old-age, widow respectively against the identity card of the beneficiary. Again the authority is reportedly deducting Rs.500 from disabled persons and Rs.100 from aged and widows for various reasons.

While opposing deduction of money against the identity card, they also informed that, two identity cards for pension scheme have already been issued for 2015-16 by concerned authority.

Moreover, they alleged that many totally disabled and aged persons from far-flung areas, who could not attend physically to receive the pension have been left out of the scheme as the authority made it compulsory for beneficiaries to appear physically to receive the pension.  They appealed to the state Govt to take necessary steps immediately so that all the beneficiaries enrolled in the scheme list can avail the pension scheme.

 

 

Rebia appeals public to donate land for highways

YUPIA, May 19: Legislative Assembly Speaker and Doimukh MLA Nabam Rebia said that developing road communication had always been his priority agenda and the declaration of two important highways from Itanagar to Jote and Doimukh to Gumto will remove the communication problems of his constituency.

“Road connectivity has always been my top priority agenda and I will continue to make every possible effort to provide good road connectivity to each and every village of his constituency in the coming years”, Rebia said at a meeting with PRI bodies, GBs, students unions, NGOs and public at Community Hall, Rono ground Doimukh today. He called upon the people to extend their co-operation in the development of roads by voluntarily donating land which falls under right of way (RoW) during the road widening process as per norms and guidelines of state highways.

While categorically informing the public that there will be no component of compensations, he urged all to donate their land voluntarily keeping in mind the long term benefits.

Urging the people to maintain peace for rapid development of their area, Rebia informed that adequate infrastructure and vehicles have been provided to local administration at sub-division and circle headquarters so that officers can deliver their public service efficiently.

Under the new pattern of financing under 14th Finance Commission, the PRI members have been empowered to play a proactive role in the decision making at grassroots level and drafting their own action plan on how to utilize the fund given to them, Rebia informed.  

Rebia also exhorted the PRI members, Gaon Buras, student bodies and NGOs to educate the masses of the importance of peace for development and to give their full support in all developmental activities with open mind.  

Earlier, Rebia held an interactive session with GBs, PRI members, student unions and NGOs on acquisition of land for state highways.

Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye lauded the local people for their overwhelming cooperation in peaceful development of ongoing projects in the district and requested them to continue to give their support in all developmental activities especially state highways.  

Doimukh ZPM Tana Yayo also called upon people to extend their full cooperation in all development works for a better future.

Earlier, SDO Ibom Tao, ADC Balijan Chuku Takar, ZPMs, Anchal Chairpersons, admin officers, EE (PWD), prominent public leaders TC Tok and others attended the meeting. DIPRO

 

 

Coordination meeting on preparation of Vision Document-2030 held

PASIGHAT, May 19: A coordination meeting of heads of departments on preparation of Vision Documents was held at the DC’s conference hall here today. Pasighat MLA Kaling Moyong also attended the meeting.

The preparation of Arunachal Vision-2030 would base on identifying challenges, setting targets and working out a detailed development strategy, informed DC Srivastava while presiding over the meeting. Besides covering all the areas of development process and Niti Aayog, Srivastava focused on agriculture and horticulture and tourism as major potential sectors to boost state economy.

In his address, MLA Moyong informed that Arunachal Pradesh is going to have the highest flow of  development project fund under Niti Ayog (14th FC). While assuring the house to personally monitor all the developmental schemes for ensuring proper utilization of fund, he called upon the HoDs to cooperate with the PR leaders and public without any discrimination to achieve maximum development in the township.

DPO Ponung Boring dwelt at length about NITI Aayog in the meeting. DIPRO

 

 

Health officers reminded of their role in success of vaccination prog

TEZU, May 19: Expressing dissatisfaction over low immunization coverage and poor turnout in the first two phases of Mission Indradhanush in Lohit district, Deputy Commissioner Dr. BM Mishra asked the medical officers of various PHCs to chalk out proper strategies to achieve cent per cent coverage this time.

Reminding the Medical Officers (MOs) of their vital role in the success of the programme in a meeting held to review the immunization programme, the Deputy Commissioner suggested them to seek help of the elected panchayat leaders, village heads and all other stake holders apart from ASHAs and Anganwadi workers for wide coverage. Dr. Mishra also suggested the MOs to remove the old taboos and fears of vaccination through advocacy and door to door awareness programme, if necessary.

District Medical Officer, Dr. Karik Basar asked the MOs to look beyond indoor and outdoor patients and understand their social responsibilities for the betterment of mankind. Mission Indradhanush is one such programme through which we can show our sincere responsibility to our society, he said.

DRCHO Dr. Nani Rika, Medical Superintendent, representative from GREF and Lohitpur ITBP were present in the meeting.

Dr. Nani Rika gave a detailed presentation highlighting the aims and objective of Mission Indradhanush.

Lohit comes under the 201 high focus districts in the country.

A total of 1844 children were immunized during the first and second round of the vaccination programme against seven vaccine preventable diseases. DIPRO

 

 

CoSAAP call on CM, submit memo

ITANAGAR, May 19: A delegation of the Confederation of Service Associations of Arunachal Pradesh (CoSAAP) today called on Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and demanded enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60 years, review of NOC matter on promotion and retirement with regard to land encroachment by employees and review of order requiring graduate for promotion to Group B & A posts.

While submitting an eight-point memorandum for immediate redressal, the CoSAAP further demanded restoration of lateral entry in APCS (EG) as per original Rules, Grant of transportation allowances, children education allowances, release of 6% DA/ DR due w.e.f.  January 01, 2015 and not to constitute State Pay Commission.

The CM has assured to look into the matter and take up the issue with the state cabinet and the authority concerned  for necessary action, the CoSAAP said.

The 23 member CEC, CoSAAP delegation was lead by its president and general secretaries of APCS Officers Association and Finance and Accounts Service Association.

 

 

DC exhorts citizens to preserve and protect Ganga Lake

ITANAGAR, May 19: Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Mige Kamki exhorted every citizen to take equal responsibility in the protection and preservation of Ganga Lake near here.

The Deputy Commissioner, who visited the lake locally known as  ‘Gyakar Sinyik’ soon after he took over the charge as the Chairman of Ganga Lake Management Committee, said that, “Ganga Lake is one of the most important public assets of Arunachal Pradesh and it is the duty of every citizen to protect and preserve it”.

He advised the officers of the department concerned to clear jungles and plant fruit bearing and ornamental trees like Pine around the lake in consultation with Forest Department. He advocated for beautification, redesigning and development of the lake through proper planning. He also advocated that the lake development activities should be a part of Vission-2030. He urged the officers concerned and PRI leaders of the locality to ban hunting in the area.

The DC inspected the various facilities in the lake like tourist lodge/restaurant and surveyed the fencing around the lake and unauthorized encroachment. He asked the ZPM of Bath Panchayat to prepare a list of land owners and submit it at an early date for further action.  

The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by hosts of Panchayat leaders and officers from PWD, WRD, Power, PHED and Tourism. DIPRO

 

 

Congress  stage protest against Land  Acquisition Bill

Correspondent

PASIGHAT, May 19: Hundreds of Congress workers of East Siang district today took out a protest rally in and around Pasighat market in protest against “Land  Acquisition Bill’ of the Central Govt.

Shouting slogans against the BJP Govt at the Centre, the participants in the rally registered strong opposition to the alleged anti-farmers bill. The rally was organized by the East Siang District Congress Committee in collaboration with  its Youth, NSUI and Women wings from all four assembly segments.

Addressing the rally at Pasighat Bazar Rostrum, former Pasighat East MLA and Education Minister, Bosiram Siram termed the Centre's Land Acquisition Bill as "anti-farmer". He opined that the bill would certainly facilitate the corporate houses and the poor farmers of the country would be deprived. He raised objections to Centre's proposal to remove clauses mandating farmer’s consent and conducting social impact assessment before land acquisition from the 2013 Act introduced by previous UPA-II Government in this regard. According to the Act, if land acquired remains unused for five years, then it is required to be returned to the original owner. But, Narendra Modi-led NDA government has eliminated this clause too, he observed. Slamming the BJP government for soaring prices of essential commodities during its one-year rule, the Congress leaders  vehemently criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for riding to power on promise of controlling inflation, but did nothing yet.

“The BJP government has miserably failed to fulfill its commitments made in the election manifesto. It had declared the North East people as “immigrants’, which was an anti-national comment”, the Congress leaders added.

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---- Editorial ----

 

Wrong politics

Virtual all out war has broken out between central government via Lieutenant governor Najeeb Jung and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over appointment of Shakuntala D Gamlin as interim chief secretary of Delhi. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has strongly opposed appointment of Gamlin and even accused her of lobbying on behalf of power companies. Lieutenant governor Najeeb Jung on last Friday had ordered the appointment of Gamlin as acting CS. At present Delhi chief secretary KK Sharma is on personal leave to US.

It is unfortunate that a lady officer hailing from remote North East region is being victimized in the political fight between politicians. Kejriwal should not indulge in character assassination of lady officer without any proof. It is almost becoming a habit for him to indulge in leveling of allegation without presenting evidence. Such act is not only tarnishing his image, but also that of AAP.  Kejriwal should give up his confrontational attitude and concentrate in delivering good governance which he promised to the people of Delhi. Also the statement of MoS Home Kiren Rijiju giving regionalism angle to whole issue is unfounded and distasteful in nature. Rijiju while lashing out at Kejriwal stated that people of northeast are hurt by the act of character assassination of Gamlin by Delhi CM. Unnecessarily he should not have dragged whole region in the political fight between his party and AAP. While disagreeing with the statement of Delhi CM, Rijiju would have easily avoided giving issue a regional colour. The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee also tried to play same regional card which is also very wrong.

 

___________________

 

---- Readers Forum ----

 

A society governed by rule of law

Dear Editor,

The 20 year old collegiums system was put to an end by the President’s assent to the 121st Constitutional Amendment Bill on December 31, 2014 after ratification by the legislatures of 15 states. The amendment makes the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) as a constitutional body. The Commission consists of Chief Justice of India as Chairperson, Two others senior Judges of Supreme Court, the Union Minister of Law and Justice and Two eminent Persons.

The 121st constitutional Amendment inserts another new Article 124B, which provides for the functions of the NJAC, its main three functions include: (i) recommending persons for appointment as Chief Justice of Supreme Court and High Court and other Judges of the Supreme Court and High Court. (ii) Recommending transfer of Chief Justices and others Judges of High Courts from one High Court to any other High Court and (iii) ensuring that the persons recommended are of ability and integrity.

The collegiums system was widely criticized for being opacity and non-accountability such as closed door process of selection, often driven by consideration of kits and kin other than the merit basis and the grounds for elevation and appointment of Chief Justice and Judges of Supreme Court and High Courts were known to only who were part of the collegiums. Hence, it was very secretive and arbitrary one. Besides, many legal luminaries have described the collegiums system as ‘ultra vires’ and ‘unconstitutional ‘because the constitution does not mention it anywhere and it was brought into existence through the judgment of the Supreme Court in the Special Reference Case of 1998.

As a result, there was an undeniable need for reformation of the collegiums system. The NJAC has come to effect in a bid to replace the two-decade old collegiums system with an independent six-member commission. However, in so far composition and function of NJAC is concerned, the   NJAC is also plagued with a lot of loopholes  and  less competent and effective to address the  deficiencies  of collegiums system, rather it appears  to have come with own set of problem.

The Most crucial issue of NJAC is that Chief Justice of India, despite being the Chief Justice of Supreme Court and the Head Commission; he has no casting vote in a case of a tie nor does he have a supreme veto power for other purposes. Hence he becomes a nominal head and his recommendations would be reduced to mere suggestion.

Another flaw is found in the matter of appointing the next Chief Justice of India, where predominance of executive over judiciary is obvious because the judicial members of the commission have little decisive power as they are not majority in the commission. The executive members happen to be emerging more decisive power with respect to appointing next Chief Justice of India.

The NJAC also  provides that two eminent persons to be nominated by a committee consisting of Chief Justice of India, Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. However, quite unexpectedly, there has been no mention about whether such person is to be eminent in the field of law or otherwise. It is most possibility that the two eminent members shall be recommended at beck and call of executives which may detrimental to very independence feature of judiciary.

No doubt, in principle, the NJAC does not envisages executive primacy over judiciary, but it is being viewed with suspicion that executive is going to hold key of all judicial appointment and administration. The independence of judiciary is another ‘basic feature’ of the constitution which can’t be amended under Article 368 of the Constitution.

Regrettably, the Indian judicial system is on the verge collapse owing to the influence M3Money, Muscle and Mafia. Those who have these powers churn the wheels of justice by contravening the law at their whims. For instance, recent ruling on 2002 Salman Khan hit-and –run case and the acquittal of Former Tamil Nadu chief minister Jayalalitha in the disproportionate assets case 1996.

A society governed by rule of law is one that demands the check and balance-the separation of judiciary from the executive because justice can be administered impartially without the absence of fear or favor. Hopefully, that the working NJAC should not be contradictory to Article 50(2) which explicitly provides that the executive authorities should not possess the judicial powers.

Yours,

Kengo Dirchi

Disi Village,

Basar

 

 

 

Take refuge in court

Dear Editor,

Many have been demanding the resignation of the CM of AP. Peaceful protests were carried out and representations were made to the Governor. In the context of politics in other states of India, CM Jayalalitha was made to resign through the court on disproportionate asset case. Even former PM Manmohan was summoned by the court and CM of Delhi Kejriwal was summoned by the court. In a democracy, peaceful rallies and protests are ways to enforce moral pressure on the government to act for the interest of the common people, but it can’t legally force the government to act for the interest of the common people. But, the court can legally force the government to act for the benefit of the common people and then the government has no other way and has to act. In the cases of spectrum and coal block allocations, the court acted on PIL and forced GoI to cancel all previous allocations and redo the entire bidding process transparently, which resulted in lakhs of crores of money to be credited to the govt. treasury. In the context of Arunachal, the case between the affected people of Dirang village and the GoAP represented by Chief Secretary, Commissioner Land Management, Deputy Commissioner of West Kameng and Circle Officer Dirang cirle in the High Court of Gauhati, 2012, on the subject of corruption in the compensation to the affected people of Arunachal Trans-Highway.  the judge found that there were gross corruption in the payment of compensation to the affected people of Dirang and ordered CBI enquiry. In the same spirit, as the peaceful rallies, protests and representations have not yielded any result to address the current financial crisis in AP, therefore, through this esteemed daily I would like to request BJP, Anti-Corruption Society, Contractors union and other organizations to file PIL like the people of Dirang village of West Kameng did, if they are really serious about the financial crisis in AP. Otherwise, the drama of peaceful protests, rallies, representations and bandh calls will continue forever and common people will be fooled to think that some real political party and leader who cares for the common people of AP is rising. Courts were established to uphold the truth on the basis of truth and not on the basis of majority or minority or who is in the ruling party or who is in the opposition party or who is rich or poor.

Since, the establishment of India, GoI had been corrected and guided many times by the Court of this country. So, the opposition parties and other societies and organizations should learn to use court/judiciary to address political/social problems quickly and solidly for the common good of the people.

Yours,

Takam Tadar,

Delhi University

 

 

 

The newsmaker abroad

Dear Editor,

All around the globe, India is making lot of news! Great!

But what about the internal pressing issues that are being consciously avoided after leaders assumed power?

More than 67 years with this defective system and these half-baked, ineffective laws simply enabled the influential and powerful few to rob the national resources and bring the country to dilapidated condition in almost every sphere. Most importantly, the anti corruption agenda, transparency and accountability in public-political affairs are yet to witness any major change and seems to be pushed to corner rather.

Appreciable proactive diplomacy and successful wooing of foreign investment may bring lot of money to the country. But yet again, continuing with the same proven ineffective mechanism of governance, India may be simply on the way to witness renewed concentration of national wealth in hands of influential few, scams & corrupt acts in some modified more sophisticated kind after few years again.

The utmost need of the time is to set the system within the country in order with new strong legislations so that economic growth and overall development of the country is disciplined, inclusive and equitable.

Do the present leaders have the creativity and commitment to walk the new horizon?

The ensuing time after elapse of 4 years from now will tell! However, these are the utmost desirable and pressing need of the country.

Yours,

Tagam Mibang,

Itanagar

 

 

 

Do not hurt the pride of Arunachal

Dear Editor,

I am an avid reader of your daily but since few days I have been disappointed with some of the articles you have carried.

In Reader’s Forum of May18th under the caption “Your money is My money”, though the writer was right in some of  his or her opinion( since it was anonymous), he was mostly declaring that everything in Arunachal can be bought and that talent is of no value in Arunachal and job are bought.

He has clearly mentioned that Arunachal is a hub of Corruption. Now, I don’t want to contradict the writer’s opinion as it may be right but what is anyone getting with such kind of articles? Isn’t this defaming our state?

Now, I am also an unemployed person and am searching for jobs, but I would never do anything which will put the fame of our state at stake. As an Arunachalee, I believes in my state and  I am proud to be an Arunachalee.

Therefore, I would like to request you to please refrain from publishing any such matters, which may be a fatal for the pride of Arunachal as your paper also has one hell of a responsibility. Let’s don’t make people of other states of India laugh at us, or students studying in other parts of India feel shame in claiming themselves as Arunachalee.

Yours

Naresh Murtem

 

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----Editor