May 03
2016
Two dead in Police firing in Tawang, Army called in
Correspondent
ITANAGAR, May 02: Two people died in Tawang on Monday when police fired at protestors demanding the release of Lama Lobsang Gyatso, General Secretary of the Save Mon Region Federation, spearheading the anti-hydro power movement in Mon Region, from Police custody.
At least seven are reported to be seriously injured because of shocking and indiscriminate police brutality.
One of the dead is 21 years old Nyima Wangdi, a monk from the Tawang Monastery, who was shot twice.
Recently married, 31 years old Tsering Tempa from Jangda village was shot point blank on the head. Both died on the spot.
Army has been called in to control further escalation of violence.
DGP In-charge, N. Payeng, while speaking to this daily said that police resorted to firing after they were attacked by the protesters, numbering around 1500, many of them Lamas and Anis as they seized the police station to secure the release of Lama Lobsang. He also said that tear gas was lobbed at the protestors to warn them not to enter the Police station.
However, eye witnesses says that police opened indiscriminate firing, just after it lathi charged as some of the protestors had entered the police station to take the detained Lama out.
The state government has ordered an official enquiry into the firing incident.
The Deputy Chief Minister Kameng Dolo, who is also the Home Minister, while speaking to this daily said that his government will initiate action after a thorough enquiry. He is leaving for Tawang on Tuesday to take stock of the situation.
Payeng said that action against police who resorted to violence will be taken after a magisterial and police enquiry.
When asked about the officer who ordered the shooting, he refused to divulge names.
The Tawang Police is headed by IPS officer Anto Alphonse.
Speaking to this daily, Lama Lobsang Gyatso, who was later released from the custody, said police used unnecessary force.
"Police was brutal in its dealing and there was no warning to the protestors. They could have warned the protestors instead of resorting to indiscriminate firing".
He flatly denies that police used tear gas to disperse the crowd.
The Lama, arrested on Thursday on charges for "deliberate and malicious act intended to outrage the religious feelings" for questioning the nationality of the Abbot of Tawang Monastery was denied bail on Friday as the magistrate concluded that the report of the Investigating Officer was inconclusive.
The lawyer had filed a bail petition at 11 AM but the hearing was conducted by a magistrate deputed by the district administration at 8.30 PM since the judicial magistrate was on leave on Friday.
When the case came up for hearing on Monday, the magistrate had postponed the hearing to May 4 leading to violent protest.
An official said that magistrate had to postpone the hearing because the protesting crowd had tried to enter the court room.
On April 26, Lama Lobsang Gyatso was first arrested for leading a group of people from Gongkhar village where the 6 MW Mukto Shakangchu project is coming up. The villagers had opposed the reconstruction of spillway of the small project as they say that work quality has been compromised. He was arrested based on FIR filed by the Personnel security officer of local MLA Pema Khandu for disruption of peace. He was later let out on bail.
However, on April 28, Lobsang Gyatso was rearrested for his comments against Guru Rinpoche, the Abbot of Tawang Monastery for hurting the sentiments of the peoples and defaming the Abbot following an FIR filed by ZPM Lobsang Youten.
The recent arrest of Lama Lobsang as well as subsequent police brutality is not lost on those keeping a tab on recent National Green Tribunal ruling against hydro power development in Tawang.
Vijay Taram, the spokesperson of Forum for Siang dialogue, an organization opposed to hydro power projects, while reacting to police atrocity said "the govt has used force on protestors, who were demanding the release of a known and vocal crusader against construction of hydro power projects in ecologically sensitive Tawang".
The government is teaching the peaceful movement against large scale hydro projects to use violence, Taram said as he termed the police brutality, unprecedented in the history of the state.
Our crusade will continue and govt must fix accountability on those officers and administrators who ordered the killing of the unarmed protestors, he said.
It is pertinent to add that on April 7, the National Green Tribunal had suspended the environmental clearance of the 780 MW Nyamjang Chhu project in response to an appeal filed by the Save Mon Region Federation. The Tribunal had asked for a fresh impact assessment studies, public hearing and appraisal by the Expert Appraisal Committee on River Valley & Hydroelectric projects and the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
CM orders magisterial enquiry, Governor, Tuki and orgs reacts
NEW DELHI, May 02: The state has reacted with shock and disbelief at the killing of the two people at the hands of Tawang Police.
Arunachal Chief Minister Kalikho Pul has ordered immediate magisterial inquiry into the incident and informed that state paramilitary force and ITBP are being sent to the district to restore law and order.
Reacting with "extreme grief" to the incident at Tawang, which left few dead and others grievously injured, CM said that the loss of young lives and the injuries caused to the others is indeed a sad moment in the history of the state.
He assured that the government will take all steps to ensure that the grievances of the public are addressed and that public confidence is gained immediately so that the situation normalizes. He directed for Peace Committees to be constituted immediately at various levels. He emphasized that representation must be given to both the followers of Guru Rimpoche and Lama Lobsang Gyatso in order to ensure fairness in the process.
In a message to the district administration, the chief minister instructed the deputy commissioner, supdt of police as well as other officers in the administration that restrain has to be exercised and at the same time, a sense of security and trust needs to be created.
While conveying his condolences to the bereaved families, and to all in the shock-stricken district, the Chief Minister said that we must now look ahead to measures that need to be initiated so that the situation stabilizes and such incidents do not re-occur.
CM announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakhs for the family of the deceased and Rs 2 lakhs for those injured, and further assured all possible support and assistance to the injured.
The Governor Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has called for an inquiry into the shooting incident.
The people of Tawang must rise above personal differences and problems, the Governor said and appealed to the indigenous population to uphold peace and tranquillity.
The Governor also advised the State Government, elected leaders and District Administration to put in extra effort in maintain law and order.
Former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has expressed shock and concern over the violence in Tawang and has appealed to the district administration to maintain law and order but with human touch.
Tuki observed that no matter what the situation is, loss of precious human lives is unfathomable.
He hoped the situation would return to normalcy soon and the administration would deal with it cautiously and avoid its escalation by all means.
Tuki also appealed to the people of Tawang and everybody in general to maintain peace and calm so that developmental activities continue uninterrupted.
Environics Trust, an organization from Delhi has said that it is deeply disturbed by the police firing in Tawang. "We have come to learn from reliable sources that the police resorted to firing as a measure to deal with protests instead of various other means of dispersing the protestors", it said in a release.
It demanded "an independent judicial probe into the entire chain of processes that has led to the completely avoidable loss of precious lives. Particularly those who were involved in ordering firing must be made accountable".
Bharatiya Janata Party, Arunachal Pradesh has demanded immediate deployment of adequate security force at Tawang while it expressed serious concern at the killing of two people.
The party appealed two factions of the monks to maintain utmost peace and tranquility by upholding the spiritual principles of the Lord Buddha.
Condemning the incident in its strongest term, Galo Students' Union (GSU) has demanded the State Government to conduct a high level inquiry into it.
It urged the government to release ex-gratia payment to the family members of those killed and critically injured in the police firing immediately. Further, the students' union appealed to the people of Tawang to maintain calm in this hour of crisis.
"Police atrocity has yet again taken the lives of innocent public, said Save Arunachal Youth Association and termed attack on peaceful protestors as most barbaric.
It demanded exemplary punishment for the perpetrator(s) of the incident.
Arunachal Pradesh Congress Seva Dal (APCSD) has termed the incident very shocking and unfortunate.
The incident of police firing on innocent protestors in Tawang, which is touted as most peaceful district in the state, deserve condemnation from all quarters, the Seva Dal said in a release.
The Seva Dal demanded immediate arrest and suspension of police personnel involved in the incident.
While expressing grave concern over the prevailing situation in Tawang, the Seva Dal demanded the Governor to recommend for President's Rule.
The Tawang incident is the reminder of complete failure of law and order in the State, it claimed.
"Such kind of police brutality on peaceful protestors is in no way acceptable and deserves condemnation from all sections of the society," said All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) in a statement.
While demanding the State Government to act promptly to restore peace in the frontier district, AAPSU also demanded for providing ex-gratia relief to next of kin of those killed and medical aid and assistance to those injured.
Further, AAPSU appealed to the people of Tawang to maintain peace.
Itanagar Buddhist Cultural Society (IBCS) has vehemently condemned the incident and held district administration and police responsible for it.
"The situation took ugly turn because of the complete failure of district administration and police," IBCS said in a statement.
"The situation could have been tackled had the district administration and district police acted swiftly at right time. But they completely failed to indentify the gravity of the situation which resulted in to such mayhem," the statement added.
Further, it appealed to the Government to immediately defuse the tension before it is aggravated and also called upon the people of Tawang to maintain peace at this trying time.
Arunachal Capital Students' Union of Monpa (ACSUM) also blamed the district administration and police department for the unfortunate incident. The union made a fervent appeal to the people of Tawang to maintain peace and harmony.
Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF) led by its president Dobing Sonam has also termed the horrific killings at Tawang as a failure on part of the district administration and police.
Condemning the incident the AAPPTF sought the suspension of Tawang DC and SP immediately.
Tuki hits back at Pul, challenges him to prove accusation
ITANAGAR, May 02: Former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has strongly objected to the statement of Chief Minister Kalikho Pul blaming his erstwhile government for creating huge financial liabilities.
Terming the statement 'immature, unfounded and childish', the former CM said that such statement can be made only by a person having vindictive approach.
He challenged the incumbent CM to prove his accusation.
"Since day one, Pul has been trying to malign the image and hard earned reputation of mine through all scrupulous means. His evil designs are amply clear through his actions as he first toppled a popularly elected and mandated Government with the support of BJP and the Governor. He hurriedly took oath although the case is lying pending with the Supreme Court showing no respect whatsoever for the judiciary. And finally, in order to hide his malicious intentions and to garner cheap publicity, he has been throwing wild allegations with no substance just to mislead the people," Tuki said.
"In reality, the entire financial mismanagement and the huge financial liabilities the state is facing today is the handiwork of Pul himself as he was the longest serving finance minister of the state," Tuki said.
It was during his tenure as finance minister that the state first went through over draft. Despite his tall claims, he has been a total failure in managing the state funds. It was then that the preceding CMs had to intervene and shift him to some other ministries," he added.
Tuki pointed out that under Pul's rule the state would further go into debt.
"Recently Pul announced creation of thousands of posts in the health department. All posts are necessary for a smooth health delivery system but creation of so many posts at one go would burden the state exchequer by several hundred crores of rupees, which the state can ill afford," Tuki opined.
He said that his government was getting ready to create the said posts in the health department but had preferred to do so on phased manner and need-base.
The former Chief Minister also invited citizens, especially intellectuals to compare the funds brought by him and Pul as the finance minister.
"Just compare the funds brought in under the 12th Finance Commission (Pul as Finance Minister) and the 13th Finance Commission (under me as the Finance Minister). I dare him (Pul) to make the figures public," he said.
"After taking over the reigns of Arunachal illegally, Pul has been making propitious claims of changing the face of development trajectory of the state. But on ground, he has been concentrating on individual schemes rather than public interest programmes. Whatever the development one is witnessing now was initiated during our government. We had kept huge funds for equitable development of the state which were apparently sprinkled to few pockets only, Tuki went on to say.
"We had undertaken massive exercise to prepare Vision 2030 document with feedbacks and suggestions from all quarters. All plans and programmes were thus prepared keeping in mind their viability, feasibility and benefits for the people after thorough consultation with concerned departments. But, during the past fag end of 2015-16 financial year witnessed a ridiculed approach by Pul, who distributed funds without having proper exercise," Tuki said.
Funds to the tune of crores of rupees went to his close aides, supporters based on pick and choose thereby giving a backseat to genuine development, the former CM alleged.
"Negating every bit of the transparency agenda of Pul, the Planning Secretary issued a circular in mid of March 2016 restricting all the commissioners and secretaries to keep the schemes and programmes of SIDF and other programmes secret. Is this the transparency and accountability Pul has been boasting about? Tuki questioned.
If at all the clarification of Pul to be believed, then why has the bills of marginal contractors not cleared yet? Why have the SSA teachers' voices being muzzled instead of listening to their pleas? Has not these issues which he had been raising in all the given platform garnered him popularity? Where are the assurances he had given?" Tuki questioned.
He further raised serious questions over the contradictory stand of Pul over freedom of media.
"At one point, Pul says that he would cooperate fully and ensure that Media in the state would work independently without any pressure or duress but on other hand he warns a particular leading daily of legal consequences for publishing a news item on financial mess. Instead of taking the news positively or clarifying on the report, Pul resorted to intimidate the media house. It shows the mentality of an individual who does not want to accept the truth, Tuki said.
He said that people are watching and they are the best judge to the false propaganda. Time will tell who is right and who is not, he added.
Citizens defy bandh, Pul thanks people
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, May 02: The citizens of Capital Complex have defied 12 hours bandh imposed by All Arunachal Contractors Welfare Association (AACWA) on Monday, as vehicles both private and government were plying, shops, business institutions and government offices were remained open from morning to evening. AACWA imposed 12 hours Capital bandh protesting against the state government for alleged non-release of contractors pending bills. The few stray incidents were reported this morning, including pelting of stones and damaging of cars, however, the police denied such incident. Earlier, in the morning there were less commuters and vehicles on the road, however, by the office hours, it went normal and bandh went unaffected.
Chief Minister Kalikho Pul has thanked the people of Itanagar Capital Complex for defying the 12-hour bandh call given by All Arunachal Contractors Welfare Association (AACWA), expressing that "time has come for all of us to collectively root out bandh culture from our state forever".
He said due to bandhs, the state's image has taken serious beating and several potential investors are reluctant to invest here.
He added that development cannot be achieved through violence and turmoil.
Reiterating that peace is a prerequisite to development, the CM said, "We cannot let few people take ransom of whole state on whose whims and fancies peace would be dictated."
The CM said the bandhs seldom do reflect the sentiments of common mass but are called to settle political scores and to serve the vested interests of few who are only interested to make a name out of it.
On the large-scale public resentment shown against the bandh, he said, public opinion can be a powerful tool in fighting against bandh culture, and urged the people to keep expressing their views in media and social media platforms, as they have done this time.
The CM appreciated the contributions of Deputy Chief Minister Kameng Dolo, Parliamentary Secretary (Home) Paknga Bage, Principal Secretary (Home) Satya Gopal and the role played by the state police under the command of DGP-in-charge N Payeng and the Capital Complex administration, in ensuring peaceful and congenial atmosphere for the people to move around the city, without the threat of being attacked or harmed.
He deeply appreciated the traders, public transport operators, tempo and trekker operators, auto rickshaw drivers, workers and government employees for taking initiative to come out of their homes to carry on with their normal day-to-day activities.
The CM also lauded the Market Welfare Committees of Itanagar and Naharlagun led by Yumlam Achung and Shillong Tajo and Ruhi Tagung of the Public Transport Federation, for putting their faith in the government and ensuring that normalcy prevails.
Kanubari bypoll: Straight fight between Congress and PPA
ITANAGAR, May 02: By-election to Kanubari Assembly Constituency in Longding district is all set to witness a straight fight between ruling People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) and Congress Party after the lone Independent candidate has withdrawn his nomination paper.
Two candidates - Jyae Wangsu (INC) and Gabriel Denwang Wangsu (PPA) are left in the fray for the by-election on the last day of withdrawal of candidature on Monday, informed Deputy Chief Election Commissioner DJ Bhattacharjee.
Voting will be held on May 16 in 28 polling stations, wherein 10736 electors (Male - 5474 and Female - 5262) will exercise their adult franchise.
Election Commission of India has deputed two Observers to oversee the poll process.
City police rescues two kidnapped businessmen
ITANAGAR, May 02: In yet another achievement, the Capital Police have rescued two kidnapped businessmen on April 30 and arrested one of the kidnappers.
Two Harmoti based businessmen, namely, Basat Nayak(46) and Kamal Kishore Joshi (44) were abducted from Nirjuli when they came to attend pre-May Day celebration on April 29, according to a release issued by city police.
Acting on an FIR lodged in Nirjuli PS (Case No 29/16 u/s 364 (A), a team of police led by Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Jummar Basar along with OC Nirjuli T Loya, ASI John Tadu, Cts. Pradil Das, T T Tara, P Baruah, D Kumar, and R Tsering swung into action and trapped the miscreants around 3 am on Saturday morning. One of the accused has been identified as Boli Natung (36) of Seba Village under Pijeriang circle of East Kameng district, other two accused reportedly escaped, added SDPO. Basar further informed that abductors made call from abducted Joshi's mobile demanding ransom of rupees three lakhs. After intercepting the calls, the City Police zeroed down the location of alleged abductor and arrested him from near Bage Tinali, Nirjuli.
The arrested alleged accused has been remanded to police custody and thorough investing is on to trace out other accomplices, added Basar.
DC unhappy with quality of CC road construction works
[ Karyir Riba ]
ROING, May 02: Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner said that he was not very much impressed with the quality of construction of CC road and drainage system from New Colony to bypass under DUDA.
Dhavan, who inspected various on going projects of the town here on Monday, pointed out many flaws in the construction of the CC road and directed the DD DUDA to submit a report on the same.
The DC said that the construction did not meet the standard and work done was of very poor quality with no finishing and leveling of the road, and improper depth of the drainage.
Disappointed by the construction work, Dhavan said that he will keep constant vigil and monitor over the work henceforth.
The Deputy Commissioner also checked the various constructions done at Kera Ati village under the Saansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana, such as the overhead water tank for the water supply of the village, the extension of the village Rehko (community hall), and the dining hall at the Multipurpose Hall.
Dhavan was accompanied by DPO Marto Dirchi, DD and UPO DUDA, PD DRDA, ASM Mayu-II, Kera Ati Welfare Committee Chairman Ashati Dele and villagers.
Power supply disrupted in Changlang town
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, May 02: Changlang township has been reeling under darkness for the last 5 consecutive days as the 11 KV power line snapped between Changlang and Margherita in Assam by a storm on Apr 27 last.
Though the power supply has been restored on Monday much to the relief of the people, the nagging issue of power failures and load shedding is far from over. Apart from the main feeder from Assam another source of power supply in the township is the 400 KW Tissu mini hydel on the Tirap river.
The mini hydel had earlier also stopped functioning following the damage caused to it in the Apr 11 flash flood but has been repaired on Monday, informed Changlang Hydropower AE, J Bam.
The power generated by the Hydel is inadequate for supply to the entire township and only caters to particular connections like college, hospitals and officer's colony. Other residents of the township are therefore left without electricity, relying on candles and lamps for days.
'The main feeder from Assam sanctions 1.5 MW of electricity to Changlang headquarters of which 1.2 MW has been currently consumed, however, the 11 KV power lines running between the headquarters and Margherita in Assam are decrepit and have not been changed since the 1980s and therefore, easily damaged', claimed Power AE, N Doji.
He further disclosed that the 11 KV line coming from Margherita, Assam have a capacity of 25 KM line expansion but the said power lines currently extend to Khimiyang, Khuchep and Changlang-Khonsa road which puts additional load on the power lines.
Disaster preparedness on South West Monsoon
YUPIA, May 02: The consultation and coordination meeting of the head of departments, line departments, administrative officers of Papum Pare district organised by the District Disaster Management department was held at the DC's Conference Hall, Yupia for Disaster Preparedness on South West Monsoon.
Chairing the meeting, Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner, Pooja Jain called on all members to discuss and share their ideas on disaster preparedness in the district. She stressed that preparedness must be well equipped with man and machinery and logistic support to prevent loss of human and property during any disaster. Vulnerable areas of respective jurisdictions were also asked to be identified by the magistrates. She also instructed all the officers to not to keep their mobile phone switched off during the three months of monsoon period for quick response when there is any call for emergency.
NDRF Commandant Om Shiv who also spoke on the occasion briefed the house about mechanism of disaster management and informed that NDRF is fully specialized and capable of working in both natural and man-made disaster. He also informed that NDRF is giving 15 days training to civilians, awareness camp at schools and colleges, NCC, NGOs etc. and emphasised on public involvement to sensitize on disaster preparedness.
ITBP Commandant who was also present in the meeting assured all possible assistance from ITBP during emergencies and said that sufficient tents and plastic sheets must be kept ready at the circle levels for any disaster to use for immediate relief.
Dy.SP Neelam Nega also apprised the DC about disaster preparedness of the Police department in the district and informed that a quick response team is kept ready in all Police Stations across the district and if there is any emergency people can directly contact at the Police Control Room, SP Office, Yupia at 0360-2284940.
The DC also interacted with all head of departments and administrative officers on availability of man and machinery in each department and administrative centres. DIPRO
Blood donation drive at Ziro
[ Yachang Tacho ]
ZIRO, May 02: A blood donation drive was organised by the Ziro Photography Club (ZPC) in collaboration with Apatani Youth Association (AYA), Apatani Baptist Association Youth Department (ABAYD) and Catholic Youths of Ziro Parish (CYoZP) at General Hospital Ziro on Monday.
As per the normal requirement, only 10 units of blood were collected during the drive. Informing about the limited collection, Blood Bank Officer (Pathologist) Dr. Joram Khopey said that though the hospital could store 800 units of blood but as per the weekly requirement of the hospital collecting more than 10 units would be waste as the blood could be stored only for 35 days. He stated that an option of groups comprising of seven persons donating blood every week could be made as a need based arrangement.
Around 40 volunteers representing AYA, ABAYD and CYoZP had turned for donating blood. Many volunteers were disheartened as they could not donate blood but were determined to come back any other day if necessary and donate blood.
'Daily wage workers are the real nation builder'
International Workers Day
ITANAGAR, May 02: Daily wage labourers, who work for long hours on meagre salary or wage, are the real nation builder, said Ziro Haopli MLA Tage Taki.
Addressing the International Workers Day celebration at Nyokum Niya Hall Nirjuli on Sunday, Tage said "we should respect all types of job since no profession is superior or inferior to another."
In his brief speech, Labour Commissioner Ojing Darung, who also is chairman of Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, highlighted on various welfare measures and scheme of the government for the workers of the State. He assured all help to the workers from the Board as per provision.
On the occasion, an awareness programme was also held on Kishan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme, Prime Minister's Jan Dhan Yojana, Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojna, Suraksha Bima Yojana and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) for Social Security.
The celebration was organized by All Arunachal Pradesh Labour Union (AAPLU).
Reports of celebration of International Workers Day are also received from various district headquarters.
Addressing the workers on the occasion at Tezu, former minister Nokul Chai advised them to abstain themselves from all forms of drug addiction, alcoholism and politics.
Acknowledging the contribution of workers in the development front, he appealed all to respect workers and their job.
District Labour and Employment Officer Ozing Rukbo termed the workers as backbone of any nation, who can change the face and fate of a country.
He encouraged the workers to enroll themselves with Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Workers Welfare Board to avail various benefits under the Board.
Various government departmental workers, daily wage earners, including Thela and Rickshaw pullers, salesmen from various shops of Tezu bazaar participated in the celebration which was organized by Lohit district unit of AAPLU.
A motorbike rally was taken out as part of May Day celebration at Daporijo organized by AAPLU district unit.
Dr. Tale Gongo and District Labour and Employment Officer Jumni Ligu attended the celebration.
Both of them advised the workers of the district to be very sincere, dedicated at work place and enhance skill and efficiency for quality construction.
Union's district unit president Tame Baki highlighted the significance and background behind Labour Day celebration.
At Balijan, May Day was celebrated in a befitting manner in presence of hundreds of workers from Tarasso, Kokila, Hollongi, Sonajuli, Durpang, Balijan and its adjoining places.
Addressing the gathering of workers, social workers and trade union leader Changma Tajo called upon the workers not to discriminate on the basis of state, caste, creed and religion and work together for development of the state.
He also advised them to be extra cautious at work places to avoid any unforeseen incidents.
Trade union activist Techi Lakhan briefed about the importance of the May Day celebration.
ZPC demands inclusion of Dibang Valley in high priority list
[ Karyir Riba ]
ROING, May 02: Dibang Valley Zilla Parishad Chairperson (ZPC) Singe Milli in a letter to Chief Minister Kalikho Pul on Saturday appealed him to consider including Dibang Valley in the category of 'High Priority District'.
Giving an overview of the topography of the district and the problems faced by its inhabitants, Milli claimed that the district is one of the most difficult and least developed districts in the state.
"The villages are mostly situated in the remote hilly and mountainous regions without proper road connectivity with practically no plain land in the district. It takes at least 8-10 days to reach the remotest villages on foot because of no road connectivity", said Milli.
The ZPC also narrated the hardships faced by the people due to non-availability healthcare facility and in evacuating patients with critical condition for treatment outside of the district due to road blockades.
"The roads remain blocked for most of the year because of heavy rainfall, making the poor patients to suffer, especially when referred for better treatment outside the district," the ZPC said.
Inclusion of the district in the high priority district category will be most beneficial for its people in terms of receiving proper health care facilities, especially under the NRHM programme, Milli said.
Meanwhile, the CM has assured his all possible help from his end as he is accustomed to the situation in the district, the ZPC claimed.
144 Cr.PC imposed in West Siang
AALO, May 02: West Siang District Magistrate has imposed section 144 Cr. PC to maintain law and order during the 24-hr Chakka bandh call given by Trans-Highway Monitoring Committee from May 3.
Declaring the bandh call as illegal, the DM has directed the WSTMC members to abstain from any act that may affect right, liberty safety and security of common citizens or that may cause public disturbances of peace and tranquility or may cause riot or disturbance within territorial jurisdiction of West Siang District.
The Superintendent of Police have been asked to take all necessary preventive measures under Cr.PC to ensure that no Chakka bandh or road blockade takes place on the day by deputing sufficient force in all vulnerable areas. Magistrates and police personnel will be deputed to tackle any kind of situation and violators will be booked under appropriate sections of law. DIPRO
CM's move condemned
ITANAGAR, May 02: The Arunachal Pradesh Youth Brigade has condemned Chief Minister Kalikho Pul for warning to take legal action against The Arunachal Times, a popular local English Daily of the state.
Media has the right to have social audit with the government, it said calling the move of the CM unlawful and attack on the fourth pillar of democracy.
BJP reiterates demand
ITANAGAR, May 02: Arunachal Pradesh unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday reiterated its demands for immediate deployment of a Disaster Management team at Diyun and Bordumsa along with adequate relief and rehabilitation materials for the cyclone affected people.
More than 100 dwelling houses were damaged and properties worth crores of rupees were lost along with human lives in the devastating storm, the party said.
It offered prayer for those two killed in the heart-rending incident.
One killed due to lightning
NAMSAI, May 02: In a freak incident, a boy Chow Ko Milli, 25 of Philobari village under Lekhang circle was killed by lightning strike on Sunday evening.
As per sources, the victim was fishing at Noa-Dihing River when the incident happened. A search operation was launched by the villagers after hearing that Milli was missing. Later the villagers found the half charred dead body near a lake called Morading in the night.
Chakma students appeal for ex-gratia
NEW DELHI, May 02: Arunachal Pradesh Chakma Students Union (APCSU) on Monday appealed to the Governor and Chief Minister to provide financial assistance as per norm to the poor family members of a 16-year-old student, who was killed in the lightning strike during the cyclonic storm in Changlang district's Dharmapur-I village under Miao circle on the evening of April 28. The deceased identified as Rahul Chakma was a student of Nampai Secondary School and has just sat for Class Xth examination.
When the lightning struck, the deceased students tried to hide under the elevated house. Unfortunately, while running he fell down and could not save himself, informed APCSU.
"We, fervently appeal to both the Governor and Chief Minister to provide ex-gratia relief to the next of kin of the deceased as has been provided to two victims, who died in the cyclonic storm in Diyun considering the poor economic condition of the deceased's family. It will immensely help the poor family," stated the APCSU.
FLCC held
ITANAGAR, May 02: More than 150 labourers from various departments and general public participated in a One day financial literacy Counseling Camp (FLCC) held at Nyikum Niya ground, Nirjuli on the occasion of International Labour day on Sunday. It was organized by Apex Bank in collaboration with NGO -- North East Multipurpose Development Society (NEMDS) and sponsored by NABARD.
During the camp, many schemes of GoI were highlighted and participants were encouraged to avail the benefits of the govt schemes.
Guv congratulates Gombu
ITANAGAR, May 02: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has congratulated Thutan Gombu on being featured in the latest Bollywood movie 'Bhaagi'.
Delighted that a boy from Arunachal Pradesh has made it to the mainstream Hindi cinema, the Governor said that Gombu has opened the gate for many aspiring talented artists of the state, who have all the potentials to make it big in the film world.
The Governor wished Gombu his best wishes and reminded him and all the aspiring artists that there is no shortcut to success but with hard work, dedication and dogmatic persistence.
Complaint lodged
ITANAGAR, May 02: A complaint has been lodged against Tana Tamar, Tana Takum and Niku Yangfo by the ASM and GBs of Nirjuli village-1 in a land dispute case with Capital DC.
The trio has been alleged of assaulting the village authorities and women on April 29 last when the boundary demarcation was being carried out in the land of Tana Niya as decided in the Mell.
Claiming that Nirjuli Police Station has failed to take action against the accused despite of lodging FIR, they have written to the DC to direct Nirjuli police to take cognizance of the complaint.
'Release fund for school renovation'
ITANAGAR, May 02: The Arunachal Students' Federation, Namsai district unit on Monday submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Director School Education, Namsai demanding early release of fund for renovation of Government Secondary School, Manhofai, Government Primary School, Pathergaon and Government Upper Primary School, Sengsap.
Claiming that the said schools do not have proper electrification, the Federation further appealed to the DDSE to initiate early steps to ensure proper implementation of Mid-Day-Meal scheme, timely distribution of textbooks and quality school uniforms as per the RTE, Act 2009 norms in all the schools of the district.
SAI selection trial
ITANAGAR, May 02: SAI, SAG Centre, Naharlagun is going to conduct the selection trial for boys & girls in residential and non-residential scheme in four disciplines i.e, Boxing, Karate, Taekwondo and Weightlifting for limited seats on May 9 to 11 next at SAI SAG Centre, A-Sector, Naharlagun, informed SAI,SAG Centre in-charge HKM Rahman.
Cleaning drives under SBA
NIRJULI, May 02: Cleaning drives and awareness campaigns under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was conducted at NERIST and near Poultry Farm, P-Sector, Nirjuli on April 30 by the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd.
The students and teachers of NERIST participated in the cleanliness drive at NERIST.
Power Grid has pledged to contribute 55000 man-hours for Swachh Bharat Abhiyan during 2016 throughout the country.
DM prohibits sale of tobacco products to minors
AALO, May 02: In pursuance of provisions provided in section 31 of the Cigarette and Tobacco product (CODTA) Act 2003, the West Siang District magistrate cum chairman of District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC) has prohibited the sale of tobacco products to minors under the age of 18 years.
Further, the sale of such products has been prohibited in an area within a radius of hundred yards at government and private educational institutions in entire West Siang district with immediate effect.
All head of departments and private educational institutions have been asked to display and exhibit a board outside the premises stating that sale of cigarette and other tobacco products within a radius of hundred yards of educational institute is strictly prohibited and is an offence punishable with fine which may be extended to Rs.200 only. DIPRO
Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector
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Editorial
Intimidation of press is wrong
It is becoming a habit for the politicians to try intimidating press when journalists don't tow their line. Across the world journalists face hostilities from ruling establishment for raising issues which makes them uncomfortable. Situation is worse in the states like Arunachal Pradesh. Apart from hooligan elements, the press constantly faces heat from the ruling class. On Sunday while addressing a press conference at his office, Chief Minister Kalikho Pul in public warned this daily of legal action over a news report on financial issue.
Pul is not the first Chief Minister to talk of legal ction against media houses. Former Chief Ministers Dorjee Khandu and Nabam Tuki also had served legal notice during their time in the office over various news reports. Infact receiving legal notice has become regular affair for most of the local newspapers. However what is worrying is the way Chief Minister publicly issued warning in the middle of a press conference. Here he is subtle trying to send out a message that criticism against his government will not be tolerated. This is worrying considering the fact that Pul dethroned Tuki with the promise of good governance. Chief Minister should understand that good governance can only be possible if healthy criticism is allowed. By trying to intimidate press he is showing utter disrespect to the freedom enshrined in the Indian constitution. Considering the fact that on 3rd May World Press Freedom Day is being celebrated, the statement of Chief Minister is untimed and uncalled for. The duty of press is to disseminate information and if government tries to infringe upon it with intimidation, the Arunachal as a state will never progress.
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Readers’ Forum
Lack of quality education
Dear Editor
In our state several Government colleges has been established during the last decade. Prospectus of College bears high and advanced words like "Quality of Education", "In Pursuance of Excellence".
Are our colleges and universities imparting quality education?
I don't think so. In this era of throat cut competition, teachers only teach us how to secure good grade, marks and how to get admission in university.
Education which doesn't train heart and mind is very dangerous. Common people are interested in political issues of state. No organization, unions demand good library or quality education.
If we compare with other universities, we lack in terms of quality of education.
Education system of Arunachal Pradesh is rotten and outdated. Attitudes of teachers and subordinate staffs are immature. They don't create environment of learning in institution. I am not saying that all the teachers are same.
In true sense, quality of education is just a tag.
Yours,
Frustrated Student
Itanagar
Sad but true
Dear Editor,
In apropos to ‘Pul Cautions SSA teachers of termination…’ You cannot guide your people and state forward to victory and development if you are being kept behind by superciliousness. You will not be able to capture our hearts and energize our minds if you are yelling and screaming at us all the time.
It’s nothing more than developing the skill of discovering new solutions to old problems and finding smarter ways of doing what you do. It’s about seeing things not as they are but as they can be, instead of warning us of dire consequences. Citizens reveals their character by the way they treat their teachers, service is the rent we pay for all the knowledge and wisdom imparted to us by our teachers. We should never forget that somehow it’s because of teachers that we are who we are today.
As per norms issued by MHRD dated 1.1.1014, Executive Committee of National SSA Mission chaired by HRD Minister, instruction had been issued to Education Secretaries of States/ UT’s VIDE Para 8, sub para – (a) & (i) stated that: (a) Additional teachers will be provided as per the RTE norms to all Government and local body schools. (b) The states should maintain unified teaching cadres and no separate ‘SSA Cadre’ is permissible as all teachers are ultimately to be borne on the state/ UT Government. That all posts sanctioned under SSA as per norms of RTE to maintain pupil teacher ratio and is also justified by HRD Minister of state vide reply in parliament that all posts of teachers sanctioned under SSA are as per norms of RTE Act 2009.
RTE rules framed by Arunachal Government, Dept. of education dated 3rd june 2010, page no. 18, para 18, sub para – 1. The State Government or the local authority, as the case may be, shall notify terms and conditions of service and salary and allowances of teachers in order to create a professional and permanent cadre of teachers. Sub para 3: The scales of pay and allowance, medical facilities, pension, gratuity, provident fund, and other prescribed benefits of teachers; including those employed for the purpose of imparting special training as specified in section 4, shall be that of regular teachers, and at par for similar work and experience.
Life pushes all of us around. Some people give up and others fight. My learned colleagues will we spend all our life blaming a job, low pay, or our Chief Minister for our problems. Or are we the kind of person who has no guts, we just give up every time life pushes us. If we are that kind of person, we will live all our life playing it safe, doing the right things, saving ourselves for some event that never happens. Then we die a boring old man/woman. We will have lots of friends who really like us because we were such a nice hardworking person. But the truth is that we let life push us into submission. Deep down we were terrified of taking risks. We really wanted to win, but the fear of losing was greater than the excitement of winning. Are we really going to live with the feeling deep inside us that we and only we know we didn’t go for it? We choose to play it safe, it’s all yours to put in whatever tense you would like to.
Yours,
Abson Tana
Teacher
Govt. Hr. Sec School Kimin
Connect Katan
Dear Editor,
Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I would like to share the feelings of
public of Katan block which consist of five villages ( Sibum, Padu, Jeru , Silli
and Pongging ) under 40th Geku-
The public are suffering because of non-
Moreover, it is the nature of political leaders to make false promises by giving assurance like providing various developmental facilities including transportation and communication, but the reality is extremely pitiable where all facilities are just a distant dream.
Therefore, I would like to appeal the concern authority and local leaders to at least install a mobile tower in Silli village where electricity is easily available. This would not only help the people of Silli rather it would also connect the whole of Katan block via net.
Yours,
Ogong Tayeng, RGU
Thank you
Dear Editor,
I on behalf of my family would like to thank all those who helped us in the most difficult time of our life. Without their help, it would have been extremely impossible to handle the situation of such a tragedy. My heartiest thanks to those well wishers for their kind help in bringing the mortal remain of my sister late Marnya Doye from Raigad, Maharastra to her native place, Seren.
My heartfelt thanks to MOS, Home Kiren Rijiju, Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP
Rajkhowa, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Kalikho Pul, MLA Nari-
Hope with the further help of State Government, the investigation will unearth every detail and justice will be delivered.
Yours,
Marina Doye,
Elder Sister
Seren