The Arunachal Times - Archives

Three day legislative session starts on a monotonous note

Itanagar, Sept 3: The three day meet of the fourth session of the fifth Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly began today on a dull note with almost no noteworthy debate and discussion. The dull session which is almost becoming a regular feature however had some good news for the legislators themselves and some for the citizens.

ALLOWANCES: The tax payers might not be amused but the lawmakers of Arunachal are just about to give themselves a rise. Though there would be no pay salary hike as such theoretically, but the amendments in the existing law could see major increase in sumptuary allowances with all members including the chief minister and speaker taking home more than Rs ninety thousand a month!

CHILD TRAFFICKING: Even after reported trafficking of Aruanchalee children rocked the state earlier this year in Feb, nothing concrete seems to have materialized.

While responding to a Zero hour discussion today at the first day of the Session on trafficking of children from Arunachal to Nepal in the name of Free Education, the Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu expressed concern at the rising cases of child trafficking while adding that government will take necessary action against those involved in child trafficking.

The trafficked children were from Bana in East Kameng. Some of them later found their way home.

Tani Loffa who raised the issue while demanding that a committee be formed to trace our the missing children said that Norbu Wangdi, the alleged trafficker reportedly took Rs 3000 from parents on the pretext of their educational expenses and selling them off to religious institutions in Nepal. Altogether 18 children from Bana area in East Kameng were taken by the alleged trafficker, who is yet to be traced by the police, Loffa said.

The Chief Minister further said that action would be taken against Wangdi while adding that the state government would take steps to maintain a record of the number of students going outside the state for education.

The Seppa Police, when contacted said parents of the six missing children registered a complaint. But the case was not registered after the children came back from Nepal. The Police added that parents had refused to do lodge a formal complaint.

It is alleged that there are as many as 150 children from Arunachal in the Phuntsok Choeling monastery in Kathmandu, allegedly a Chinese funded monastery who are opposed to Dalai Lama’s teaching.

SIC: The state government has nothing to do with the ongoing investigation into the PDS scam and arrest of former Chief Minister Gegong Apang by the Special Investigation Cell (SIC), as the Cell reports directly to the High Court, the House was informed.

Replying to a calling attention motion moved by Bamang Felix (NCP), Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jarbom Gamlin informed that the Sessions Court at North Lakhimpur was dealing with the case as the separation of judiciary from executive was yet to take place in Arunachal Pradesh.

On the other hand, the Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu while replying to a question raised by Tani Loffa (TMC) on the number of corruption cases registered and number of accused with the SIC said that 31 cases were registered of which reports of nine cases have been completed while 14 cases were under various stages of investigation. The chief minister further said that there are 17 employees working with the SIC including the SP while adding that SIC is a police station.

The member further raised questions about the integrity of SP SIC M S Chauhan while dubbing him a bad mannered person who had no regard for anyone. He alleged that SP was reported to have taken money from accused, which he said “can’t be proved”.

Private member’s resolutions: Education Minister Bosiram said that his ministry was working to address the loopholes in the department while admitting that ministry was facing problem because of poor sighted policies. He said that there was acute shortage of Science and Mathematics teachers while the department was overburdened with Social Science teachers. He was responding to private member’s resolution by Punji Mara.

He said that within a very short time, 200 JTs would be recruited under SSA of which 75 percent would be reserved for Science while the rest would be allocated to Languages. He further said that 50% of the total 679 posts for ATA would be reserved for Science while adding that there would be open competition for senior teachers to be conducted by Arunachal Pradesh Public Services Commission. State cannot afford laxity when it comes to quality education, he said.

He further said that 200 teachers for special children would be recruited. While admitting that it would be a difficult task for department to find eligible candidates from among the indigenous tribal of the state, the minister said that training would have to be given to those candidates to cater to the needs of the children. NCP MLA Jomin Tayeng called for Special Economic Zone along the Kanubari-Kamengbari route to arrest the poor economic conditions. He further said that these areas have become underground breeding ground because of economic constrain.

The Chief Minister while responding to the resolution said that state was not yet ready for SEZs. The resolution was later withdrawn.

CHAKMA-HAJONG Refugee issue: Home Minister Tako Dabi informed the house that apart from Committee on Chakma-Hajong refuges formed by the centre being headed by a joint secretary who would submit its report within three months, the state government has also formed a committee headed by C C Singhpho with Kamlung Mossang, C T Mein, Nabum Rebia and SP and DC’s of Changlang, Papum pare and Lohit as members. He was responding to MLA Bamang Felix who raised the issue on Chakma Hajong refugees in the state.

The member while giving a detailed account of criminal activities by refugees further added that unprecedented increase in numbers of refugees is a cause for concern for the state. He further demanded a separate ministry for refugees.

Question Hour: Health & Family Welfare Minister Tanga Byaling informed that steps would be taken to control outbreak of malaria in the state. He was responding to a question by T N Thongdok who called for posting of doctors at CHC Kalaktang and CHC Rupa and establishment of PHC at Balemu. The member informed that Balemu witnessed six deaths this year because of malarial outbreak.

LABOUR WAGES: The Chief Minister announced govt’s decision to enhance wages of the labourers based on recommendation of a committee headed by V K Dev, commissioner V K Dev. The financial liability would amount to Rs 80. Cr. For the current financial year, if the recommendations are adopted from Oct, it would be Rs 40 Cr.

Obituary: The House paid respect to former Vice President of India Late Bhairon Singh Sekhawat who died on May 16 and former MLA Talo Kadu who passed away on Aug 18.

Panel of Chairmen: Speaker Wanglin Lowangdong announced the panel of chairmen for the session which included Likha Saaya, Bamang Felix, Dr Tangor Tapak and Kamthok Lowang.

BILLS: The Arunachal Pradesh Municipal (Amendment) Bill, 2010, the AP Speaker and Deputy Speaker Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill, 2010, the AP Salaries and Allowances of Ministers (Amendment) Bill, 2010, the AP Salaries and Allowances and Pensions of Members of the Legislative Assembly (Amendment) Bill, 2010 and the AP Motor Vehicles Taxation (Amendment) Bill, 2010 were introduced on the floor of the House.

Quotes of the day

# Ghus ghas mein koi proof nehi hai: Tani Loffa informing the house about alleged transactions by SP SIC with PDS accused.

# After election seven of the eight doctors have been transferred out of Kalaktang: TN Thongdok

# Manpower should have been created before the creation of infrastructure: Nang Sati Mein

# There should be a separate ministry for refugees: Bamang Felix

# Some paper just carry letters to the editor with brickbat and bouquets for us: Jarbom Gamlin

# Chief Guest banke geya aur andhadhun upgradation kiya. Jabki facilities hi nehi hain: Bosiram Siram on many schools with inadequate infrastructure.

# Surprise visit karne se sachai pata chalta hain. Nehi toh sab saja ke rakh deta hain: Tanga Byaling advocating surprise visits to find the real picture

# You ask your question. Question jyada lamba hogaya hain: Speaker Lowangdong to Bamang Felix asking him to stick to time.

Former MLAs write to Chief Justice for CBI enquiry in PDS case

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: Former MLAs Kipa Babu and Takam Sorang have appealed to the Chief Justice of India to direct CBI to take over the multi-crore PDS scam for free and fair investigation.

In a letter to the Justice S H Kapadia, Chief Justice of India, the former MLA duo also appealed him to issue necessary directives to the Arunachal Pradesh Govt to dissolve present SIC so that no person shall fall prey to the hands of SIC like former Chief Minister Gegong Apang in near future due to political differences with the persons who are at the helm of affairs. They said that SIC is a tool of persons of high stature.

Pointing out the sentiment of the people after the arrest of Apang in connection with the alleged involvement in Rs. 1000 crores PDS scam in the state, the former legislators said that even the people of the state are of the view that the scandal be investigated by independent investigation agency to book the real culprits.

The letter claimed that in fact about 80 to 90 per cent of the present and former ministers and MLAs of the state are involved in the PDS scam and are under the radar of investigation agency.

The former MLAs said that functioning of SIC is not fully independent and investigation of PDS scam by SIC is not a fair. The investigation shall not yield any justifiable result as the as SIC has failed to trail or interrogate persons of high statures in the course of investigation, they said and demanded that it should be investigated by an independent Central Investigation Agency.

IMWA concerned at influx of outsiders

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: ‘Defective’ procedures in issuing inner line permit (ILP) have enabled criminals and unscrupulous people to enter the state capital in guise of businessmen and labourers, said Itanagar Market Welfare Association (IMWA).

Innocent Arunachalee people are being cheated by those so called businessmen, tantrik and astrologers by selling bogus items in the name of precious metals, IMWA president Bamang Taji said, in a release. Observing numerous suspected and labourers roaming in Itanagar and beggars begging door to door in market areas which is against the ethics of tribal society like ours, the president appealed to the administration to look into matters seriously and check all these public nuisance at the earliest.

Elected representatives to interact with ABK & AdiSU

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: The elected representatives of Adi Community in an impromptu meeting discussed the ongoing burning issues confronting the community.

The elected leaders are deeply pained to note that the Adi Community as a whole has been dragged into the controversy arising out of the arrest of former Chief Minister Gegong Apang, said a joint press statement signed by the elected representatives.

They are of the view that the name of the Adi Community should not be used in individual case. The society as such has no concern with the individual criminal case. It is also regretted that a slew of press statements has been made in the name of ABK alleging that former chief minister Gegong Apang has been politically victimized and there is an element of political vendetta, the statement added.

The elected representatives after detailed discussion have decided to interact with the office bearers of the ABK and AdiSU on Sept 5. They are of the opinion that the State Government under the leadership of Dorjee Khandu has no connection or involvement with the arrest of Gegong Apang.

Education Minister Bosiram Siram, Deputy Speaker Tapang Taloh, Parliamentary secretary J K Panggeng, MLAs Alo Libang, Jomin Tayeng, Tamiyo Taga, Dr Tangor Tapak, Ralom Borang in their joint statement said “As we understand the present case has arisen out of the PIL No.50/2004 which was filed in Gauhati High Court, alleging gross anomalies in PDS in Arunachal Pradesh. In this case many Adi officers were arrested but at that time there was no hue and cry from any corner”. The statement further said, “this being the position, the elected representatives appeal the members of Adi community not to have misunderstanding with the Government or for that matter blame the state Govt for the arrest of Apang as the SIC is directly doing under direction of the High Court. The Government cannot interfere with the direction of the High Court”.

Communities form Forum, rejects Bordoloi Commission Report

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: The representatives of Community Based Organisations and Human Rights concerned bodies held a daylong meeting and deliberated on various issues faced by the respective bodies.

The house resolved to reject the infamous 1951 Notification and the one-man Commission Report known today as the Bordoloi Commission Report, basing on which the state of Assam has been violating the Supreme Court’s directive for maintaining status quo and encroaching on the land holdings of the tribes people of Arunachal Pradesh.

During the day long meeting, chaired by Galo Welfare Society, (GWS) President, Jarjum Ete and co-chaired by Apatani Socio Cultural Welfare Society, (ASCWS), General Secretary, Pura Guth Tago, the participants decided to come together and form a secular and non-political forum, christened as Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum, which will be accountable only to the tribal people of Arunachal Pradesh, to deal with conflict situations of all kinds and all levels, welfare issues, development matters, and particularly, to represent the Arunachalee peoples affected by the inter-state boundary problem.

The house also constituted a Committee on the Inter State Boundary Issue. And the same comes into immediate effect from today, and it was authorised by the body to function autonomously in the collective pursuit for a legal and amicable settlement of the long pending problem left unattended by the Government of India and the concerned state governments. An interim Committee was constituted to be chaired by Bengia Tolum, President, Nyishi Elite Society and Jarjum Ete, President, Galo Welfare Society as Co-Chair. Awang Lowang, Chairman, Nocte Welfare Forum, will be the Chief Coordinator, Pura Guth Tago, General Secretary, Apatani Socio Cultural Welfare Society will be the Publicity Secretary, Montu Mossang, General Secretary, Tangsa Welfare Forum as Treasurer. The next meeting of the body will be on Sept 17.

CM assures ANSU delegation

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: A delegation of All Nyishi Student’s Union (ANSU) led by its president Niglar Veo and general secretary Nilly Likha Tabo today called on the state Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu in his residential office with their charter of demands.

Khandu after paying a patient hearing, assured to consider the proposal of establishment of National Institute of Technology (NIT) at Jote Kampo, Papumpare as recommended by the site selection committee.

He further assured the delegation to call a meeting of MLAs of Ziro and Yachuli with representatives of both the parties within a span of two months to decide upon the establishment of Polytechnic College.

While responding to the request of declaring Kara Dadi as National Park in East Kameng District, Khandu said he would take up the matter with the concern department.

Regarding the demand of equal right of settlement at Lower Subansiri district headquarter by ANSU, the chief minister said he would speak with the concern Deputy Commissioner on the matter. While clarifying the union on the demand of roads from Itanagar to Balukpong via- Seijosa, Doimukh to Gerukhamukh via Kimin, Tamin to Tali and road from Chayang Tajo to Nyapin, Khandu said that the state government with its limited resources totally depends upon the centre for adequate funding for roads. He, however, said he would take up these roads according to need based basis on top priority.

On the demand of Hydro Power Projects in Kurung Kumey and East Kameng, the chief minister said that a proper survey for ensuring the feasibility of such projects would soon be conducted in these areas comprising of the local legislators of the district along with interested power developers. Khandu however said that the cooperation of the local people for bringing such projects in their area is highly necessitated so as to ensure that no law and order problem arises in coming years which would hamper the development of the area as well as the local people.

Khandu further said adequate manning of Police Stations and police outpost as demanded by the union can be done when a battalion of under training police personnel finishes their training course and set ready to be posted.

The delegation included district and branch student union leaders from Papumpare, Kurung Kumey, East Kameng, Upper Subansiri and Lower Subansiri districts. PRO to CM

“NEEPCO release water without warning”

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: At a time when heated debate is ranging through out the state about pros and cons of power project, an act of negligence by NEEPCO authority came as an alarm bell. On 2nd September people of Lichi and Hawa Camp situated in the downstream of Ranganadi hydropower dam were surprised to see usually dry Ranganadi River flowing in full pace. It is reported that animals roaming the nearby river were washed away in full day light. Even GREF truck along with couple of crew members had a narrow escape as they were collecting boulders from river.

Informing about this incident, Lichi Cher Project Affected Area Management Committee has expressed serious concern about negligent behavior of NEEPCO authority. It is to be recalled that in the year 2003 one Lokam Tuching of Lichi lost his life due to sudden release of water by NEEPCO from Ranganadi dam without any prior notice. The young boy who was fishing was drowned in broad day light after water was release from Ranganadi dam. Taking serious exception to sudden release of water without any prior information, Lichi Cher Project Affected Area Management Committee has given one month ultimatum to NEEPCO authority to mend their ways or face democratic movement. Committee informed that it had submitted a memorandum in 2008 demanding immediate installation of warning system at Lichi and Cher villages, construction of flood control dams and rehabilitation of affected villages to pre-empt losses due to sudden increase in water level. But as of till now nothing has been done regarding their demand, it informed.

Committee further stated that dictatorial attitude of NEEPCO authority by releasing water without caring for downstream people has left them in great trauma.

Govenor asks students to perform their role with passion

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen J J Singh yesterday addressed the students of the Management on Leadership at Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Management, Shillong yesterday.

“Your India has arrived. It is unbound and you have a role to play” the Governor said. He called upon the students to perform their role with passion and pride.

Reflecting his experience in military leadership as chief of Indian Army, Gen Singh said leadership evolves as an art of handling men. Leadership, therefore, amounts to "knowing what to do" and "getting things done" this equally applies at all management levels, he said.

He also highlighted the importance of Conceptual Skills, such as Envisioning, Dealing with Uncertainty and Ambiguity, Interpersonal Skills, Communicating and happiness.

Governor, who is on a three-day official tour to Meghalaya had meetings with Meghalaya Governor, officials of Eastern Air Command and other dignitaries. A Crusader of tourism in the State, Gen Singh visited Cheerapunji on his second leg of the tour. Pro to CM

Apatani community to celebrate Yapung on Sept 10

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: Yapung or Korlang is one of the major festivals of Apatani community performed at respective villages by traditional head priests in the month of September since time immemorial to appease Yapung/Korlang (benevolent deity). It is believed that when Yapung or Korlang, deity is disturbed by human activities such as fishing, hunting, felling trees, earth cutting involving sound pollution, the Yapung/Korlang God and Goddess send storm, rain and hailstorm. As a result paddy and other seasonal crops are destroyed completely and famine and epidemic on earth occur.

During the rituals, four night and five days taboo has to be observed strictly which prohibit entire inhabitant of Apatani plateau to do any kind of activities that might disturb the nature. Whoever violates such restriction knowingly or unknowingly have to pay heavy penalty and Yapung is to be performed once again.

Meanwhile to ensure a common date for the ritual, Apatani Priest Association of Ziro organized a meeting with all Nyibus (Priests), Goras (traditional ritual management committee) and Bulyang (traditional village council) at Charung Piimii-Lanii Hall, Danyi-Piilo ground Hapoli on August 28.

During the meeting 197 members comprising of Nyibus, Goras and Bulyang took a historic decision to celebrate Yapung Puja by entire villages of Apatani community on Sept 10 with effect from this year.

Solung Celebrated with Traditional Fervour at Daporijo

DAPORIJO, Sept 3: Solung the harvest festival of the Adis was celebrated with traditional fervour and gaiety by the Adi community residing at Daporijo. The festival was marked by offering of Mithun to Goddess Kine-Nane for bumper harvest, peace and prosperity. The whole community enjoyed a community feast and joined in the ponung led by the Miri Abu and relived the mythological stories through song and dance. The celebration was marked by a cultural shows and prize distribution ceremony.

Solung was also celebrated with traditional gaiety at Yingkiong, Upper Siang District on Sept 1. Alo Libang, MLA unfurled the Solung Flag in presence of Pawan Kumar Sain, DC, Upper Siang and other officers, public leaders and others.

While wishing happy and prosperous life for all on the occasion of Solung, Libang called for celebration of festival unitedly with traditional values. He also cautioned against excessive sacrifice of mithuns during festival and appreciated the people of the district for their unity and maintaining communal harmony. He hoped that the same spirit will be maintained in future also.

Pawan Kumar Sain while appreciating the hospitality of community wanted the young generation involve in preservation of culture and traditional values. Prabhat Pherry, recitation of Solung mythology, traditional games and sports, cultural programmes, Solung football, etc were the other highlights of the day. DIPROs

Meanwhile, Oyan village of East Siang district will celebrate post Solung at Oyan on September 11. East Siang deputy commissioner Onit Panyang and SDO Yemling Tayeng will be the chief guest and guest of honour of the celebration.

Greater participation for a stronger democracy

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: Justice K. Mereeno of Guwahati High Court, Itanagar bench inaugurated a three-day photo exhibition at Nirvachan Sadan here today in presence of Govt and election officials and students. The exhibition is being organized jointly by election department, directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity, regional office Guwahati, and state Information department to commemorate the diamond jubilee celebration of Election Commission of India with a theme of “Greater participation for a stronger democracy.”

This is the third exhibition in the North East so far with three more exhibitions in Manipur, Tripura, and Mizoram in the offing while similar exhibitions are in progress at other state capitals of the country.

The exhibition seeks to provide glimpses of India’s electoral process over last 60 years -- a process inseparable from the country’s democratic history. Altogether 146 photos, including 20 election photos depicting various election scenes of the state and various processes of election in the country’s last sixty years are on display. The exhibition would remain open for general public from 11am to 4am from September 4 to 5.

On the occasion, a painting competition for students is also being conducted by the Directorate of School Education for which prizes to winners would be given on the concluding day.

Rina Sonowal, Director, DAVP, Regional office Guwahati, Principal Secretary to CM and CEO Yeshi Tsering, and Dr. Joram Begi, Director Higher Education, DIPR Lekhi Phuntso were also present on the occasion. DIPR

Hand over PDS case to CBI

Dear Editor,

I want to know from our Govt as to why it is not 'very much' interested and hesitatant to hand over this high profile PDS case to CBI when the public and even Gegöng Apang himself is demanding for that. Whether there is something 'behind the curtain'?

Thus, it is my ardent request to our 'people first' Govt. to hand over the case to the CBI keeping in view the peoples' demand so that those involved in the scam are nabbed and suitably punished as per law. Lastly, I request all my fellow beings to come together to uproot the evil of corruption from our mother land.

Yours,

Nyade Nomuk,

F-Sector, Naharlagun,

On email

Arrest all PDS accused so that our faith is restored

Dear Editor,

I would like to ask those people who are accusing the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) and other Adi organizations of giving communal colour to the arrest of Apang, that on what basis they are saying this? The ABK has not made any comment or statement or action against any other community, so where is the point of communal issue. Is writing against the ill treatment of one of the most respectable persons of Adi community a communal statement or issue? Leave alone the Adi community, any other tribe or community will also not sit silently if one of their members is treated so inhumanely. So I again request those persons to please avoid making such type of irresponsible statement in future as it will only act as an unnecessary fuel in such tense time.

Lastly I would like to request the state Govt to arrest all others accused in the Rs 1000 Crore PDS case immediately to prove that the action of the Govt is not politically motivated against a single person, so that our faith in the present government remain even more stronger.

Yours

Onong Yosung

Pasighat on email

Govt & Society should act first for release of Arunachalees

Dear Editor,

All Raga Area Students' Union would like to thank and appreciate the All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union, All Nyishi Students Union and other prominent student bodies and Taba Taku, who contested for Lok Sabha (West) seat and like minded persons for their kind appeal to the Govt for early release of 5 Arunachalees arrested at Chapakhowa, Tinsukia in Assam recently.

It is a fact that Arunachalees were thrashed by the mob at Chapakhowa village in front of the eyes of the police officials. Real culprits are freed but the innocents are punished. Why is it that the common people or students' community of Arunachal is always victimized at Assam?

We came to know that 5 arrested Arunachalees which includes some under-aged are not being given bail and seriously injured are being treated at Chapakhoa CHC.

We request the state Govt and Nyishi Elite Society to intervene for early solution to the matter before it is too late.

We also like to add here that the Former Chief Minister Gegong Apang is known as "The Father of the Arunachal Politics” , who has served the state for 23 years and sacrificed his whole life with the vision for the better development and future of the state. The procedure of his arrest as alleged for the PDS scam was uncalled for. We demand the termination of M.S. Chauhan, S.P, S.LC and the case be handed over to the C.B.I. so that all accused behind the scam be punished as per the law.

Yours,

Mr. Guchi Sanjay

President,

Maga Pillo

All Raga Area Students Union (ARASU)

Get rid of corrupt politicians

Dear Editor,

All of us know most of our state leaders were not super rich when they came to power for the first time. But how could they become billionaire within a period of five to ten years with their salary and the perks they get from the govt. for their service to the people.

However, our civil society will never ask them as to how they accumulate such huge money. Because our people believe in theory Tum bhi khao aur hame bhi khane do. That's why our state is also called land of Khusi khusi.

Arrest of former Chief Minister Gegong Apang is only a beginning, though it might be politically motivated. Let see how many more are arrested.

Today most of our Arunachalee people are not illiterate as our leaders seems to believe. Stop treating us in the same manner as they did during our early statehood days. It’s time to get rid of politicians who only know how to make money and usurp power for their vested interest.

Yours,

A concerned citizen

Itanagar on email

There is something to learn from BRO

Dear Editor,

I would like to shed some light on the growing trend of public interference in developmental project work especially in rural Arunachal Pradesh. My recent visit to Taliha and Daporijo was an eye opener to the problem.

Developmental work like link road project undertaken by the BRO was brought to almost a complete halt by few locals claiming the work on their domain has to be awarded to them despite the fact that none of them had the technical knowhow to execute the challenging task.

Like wise, much needed power projects, Hydro- Projects and even small government projects are directly played by few individuals in their domain benefiting only them.

My salute to the members of Border Road Organization for maintaining roads in such a hostile environment without much or any public support at all. I only wish our state run PWD could learn something from this fine organization and do something about the capital road.

My request to all the general public is to be helpful and not to obstruct all developmental work because it is for us after all.

Better roads mean a connected nation and without electricity we would not be even reading this article.

Yours,

XYZ

Naharlagun,

On e-mail

We need more ATMs and better banking service

Dear Editor,

I on behalf of the people of Pasighat would like to write down regarding poor SBI ATM service.

There is only one nationalized banking institute - State Bank of India in Pasighat, the oldest town of Arunachal Pradesh. If someone goes to withdraw or deposit his/her money it takes 2 to 3 hours standing in long queue, losing all our valuable times. Even the staffs do not behave well with their customers forgetting that the bank runs only because of these customers.

We thought ATM service will lessen our problem and deliver better service. But in ATM too the queue is longer than that of any grocery shop. Sometimes the A.T.M doesn’t work properly and even if it works, the machine shows no money. So the people have to go back empty handed.

There are two S.B.I. ATMs at Pasighat, one at Ering building and the other at the S.B.I. compound which remains always closed. The distance between the two ATMs is not even 50 Mtrs. It is not known why two ATMs are installed so closely.

Therefore, I on behalf of the Abor Hill People’s Forum and Business communities of Pasighat like to request the S.B.I. authorities to set up a branch of S.B.I. at high region area of Pasighat for the benefit of customers. I request the authorities to install ATMs at Medical/Horticulture college area and Mirmir tinali near All India Radio area. It is earnest request to state Govt to set up one or two nationalized ban in every district HQ.

Your's

Kaling Jamoh

Chanchal Singh

G/Secretary

Punjabi Community

Abor Hill People's Forum Pasighat.

Your paper is also biased

Dear Editor,

I am an ardent follower of your paper, particularly the write ups on various issues. But of late I am having the inkling that your paper is also biased in certain issues. For the last one month or so there are repeated allegations on the children of mixed marriages regarding their misuse APST status. I had written to you on 12th of Aug regarding the same giving the clear provision enshrined in the law, but reasons best known to you, it has not been published till date. May I know why this disparity? Why are you telling only one side of the story? Atleast give us a chance to make our stand also.

Hence I am compelled to call you biased.

Yours’

Jar Revon

Take stern action against accused personnel

Dear Editor,

I welcome the arrest of two GREF personnel, who were involved in the attack on Dr. Tage Kano and request the D.C Ziro to give them exemplary punishment and not to release them on bail immediately.

The BRTF authority is forgetting that the public of Tajang village has allowed them to establish their office temporarily and mobile GREF Camp in pine grove area on humanitarian ground. Despite our good gesture, it is always reported that GREF personnel are harassing villagers for last many years. But the villagers always keep quiet and do not bring such irritating matter to public.

Dr. Tage Kano (Child Specialist) is one of the senior most doctors of Tajang village and associated with many reputed NGO's of the state and is one of the most popular social activist of the Apatani Community. Therefore, manhandling of Dr. Kano by GREF personnel is very big concern and hurt the sentiments of people of Tajang which shall not easily diffuse. Therefore, the district administration of Lower Subansiri District is requested to take stern action those GREF personnel to cold down the public sentiments.

Yours’

Rubu Hangu, ZPM

Tajang, Lower Subansiri District

Strong scrutiny mechanism should be in place

Dear Editor,

This is in response to the Reader's Forum 'After all we are not a matrilineal society' published on Aug 7th. The so called concerned citizen has written about the issue of which he is not fully informed and his intention seems to make the topic more controversial. So before coming to a biased conclusion out of personal enmity please have some basic facts right.

ST status given to a person is a constitutional as well as a birth right of a person. So even if a ST woman gets married to a non- ST person her ST status doesn't change and remains the same. She will remain a ST till her death as it is her birth right. Hence she can have any movable or unmovable property in her name which has been clearly specified in the law. It has been upheld by the Supreme Court and various other court rulings. As for the children of such inter-married couple, again there is a provision in the law where the main determining factors of granting ST status is whether the child of such couple is accepted by the tribe or society in which he seeks an entry. The main points of consideration would be whether the child has been brought up in that culture, his/her overall behaviour towards the fellow beings and tribal environment which prevailed during his/her growth period.

And the most vital point is it will happen irrespective of whether the society is Patrilineal or Matrilineal. So there does exist a basis of granting APST status to such offsprings. There are some rare cases which exists in every community be it Nyishi, Gallo, Adi or Apatanis. So it would not be right to paint all such children with a single brush and would be unjustified to question their loyalty and integrity. And then there are cases of adoption whereby the child's maternal uncle adopts the child due to untimely demise of father.

So to differentiate the genuine cases from the fake ones a strong scrutiny mechanism should be in place before the authorities’ issues the certificate. There are fake cases no doubt, but some of them have got it very genuinely after a very grilling process and years of court cases. So to say that once married to non-APSTs a woman have no longer right to claim APST status does not hold water as it is her birth right. If any doubt one can get the facts from the department concerned rather then make the issue unnecessarily sensational. There are other more genuine problems like corruption and communalism which has plagued our state of late and we should put a united fight against it

Yours

A Citizen,

(on email)

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School lying defunct for want of teachers

ITANAGAR, Sept 03: The Govt. I.V. School Segi under Segi-Gusar circle of Upper Subansiri district remained defunct for the last five years for want of teachers, claimed All Segi-Gusar Unemployed Youth Forum.

Another school, named the Govt Middle School, Bui is also facing the same problem which has adversely affected the teaching and learning in both schools.

While deploring the Education Department for failing to post teachers in those schools in far flung areas, the youth association appealed to the village elders, HGBs, GBs and public leaders of the area to come forward and help spread the light of education by brushing aside all differences, ‘selfishness’ and ‘individualism.’

Meanwhile, All Maro Baririjo Area Students’ Union took strong exception to the absenteeism of SSA teachers posted in some schools in Baririjo area.

While lodging complaints against those irregular teachers, especially of Govt Primary Schools Tode and Korarijo, who have been remaining absent from duties, the students union claimed that many schools in the area are yet to start their new academic session due to utter negligence of teachers towards their profession.

DC not happy with infrastructural development of JNV

SEPPA, Sept 3: While addressing the annual Vidyalaya Management Committee (VMC) meet for the session 2010 at JNV school Seppa today, the East Kameng DC Tope Bam expressed his total dissatisfaction over the ongoing infrastructural development works of the school.

The DC who is also the chairman of the VMC, further raised his concern at the lack of quality parameters by the implementing agency, CPWD Tezpur, and further directed them to properly monitor the ongoing work. He also stated that atleast one senior member of CPWD ought to be present on the next VMC meet to discuss the ongoing works failing which the matter would be viewed seriously.

Later the committee also discussed on various issues regarding regular supply of treated potable water at JNV, regular power supply, rectification of BSNL landline services, fair conduct of JNV selection test, health & hygiene in and around the school.

Meanwhile the DC, along with ZPM Boru Sangyu (Member), DDSE T.Ramching (Member), DMO T.Gongo (Member) and other members visited the classes while also interacting and advising the students to maintain proper discipline in the school. DIPRO

Road connectivity demanded

ITANAGAR, Sept 03: As road connectivity is one of the main components of development, the All Nyapin Sangram Phassang Youth Welfare Association (ANSPYWA) demanded road from Nyapin to various places, such as Pagi, Mengio, Phassang and Chayang Tajo; and hoped leaders of the area will take up the issue with the Government.

Meanwhile, the Association extended support to All Nyishi Students Union (ANSU)’s 12-hr Capital bandh on September Six in support of its various demands. The association also backed All Kurung Kumey District Students’ Union (AKKDSU)’s demand for re-introduction of Air Dropping of PDS items in remote and inaccessible areas of Kurung Kumey district by immediately cancelling head-load carriage system for regular and timely distribution of ration items.

ATA unit supports AASSATA demand

ITANAGAR, Sept 03: Lower Subansiri district unit of Arunachal Teachers’ Association (ATA) extended support to the proposed phase wise pen down strike from September 16 by All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers Association (AASSATA) protesting against non-fulfillment of its various demands, including regularization of services of teachers under SSA.

Seva Dal meeting

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: All India Congress Seva Dal Organizer and in-charge North East, P.A. Gurung has advocated for organizing mobilization activities for its cadre to further strengthen the Seva Dal organization in the state.

Gurung, who attended a Seva Dal meeting at Congress Bhawan, Naharlagun yesterday, said that regular visit by party chief to state will motivate cadres to work with zeal and spirit. He advised state Seva Dal to invite party chairman Jagdish Tytler and chief organizer Mahendra Joshi and utilize their influences in party organizational matter.

In his speech, APCSD chief organizer Taki Taba appealed to its cadres to work hard to strengthen Seva Dal in their respective districts.

The meeting was attended by all the Pradesh Seva Dal office bearers, district chief organizers, chairmen and Mahila organizers.

Training workshop on low cost technologies held

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, North East Unit has organized a two-day training workshop on low cost appropriate technologies for capacity building of farmers at its Multi Technology Demonstration Centre, Midpu, Doimukh on September 2 and 3. As many as 40 participants, half of them being females, from 10 villages of Ziro in Lower Subansiri District and West Kameng district were imparted training on seventeen low cost technologies.

The training programme was organized under the GOI-UNDP CCF-II Project entitled “Biodiversity through Community Based Natural Resource Management in Arunachal Pradesh” in an effort to promote participation of local communities in biodiversity conservation measures and resource management.

Addressing the participants, Dr. P.K. Samal, Scientist Incharge of the Institute said biologically richest Arunachal in the recent times is facing the danger of bio-resources degradation under various threats. He informed that the Institute, through the GOI-UNDP CCF-II project is focusing to conserve the rich and unique bio-resource of state through developing micro enterprises and promoting alternative livelihood schemes like ecotourism, agro forestry, medicinal and aromatic plants. The training programme was coordinated by Er. MS Lodhi, Scientist of the Institute and the training was imparted by resource persons Mihin Dollo and. Dr. L. Jitendro Singh, Maamang Tamuk and others.

Power channel damaged by landslide

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: The Sessa MHS (3x500KW) the only power source for Balukpong circle headquarter and its adjoining villages have been shut down from Sept due to damage of power channel, according to an official release.

A portion of the channel measuring about 50 mtr was damaged due to a massive landslide on August 31, the release informed saying that restoration work could not be taken up immediately because of after effects of landslide. Restoration work will take more than two week’s time depending on weather condition, the release said. The area will be reeling in darkness till the restoration work is completed.

However, alternative arrangement has been discussed with the power department to provide power supply to Balukpong circle headquarter and its adjoining villages. The department requested the people to bear with them till the damaged power channel of Sessa MHS is restored.

Changlang DC visits District Hospital

Changlang, Sept 3: The Changlang district Deputy Commissioner Opak Gao paid a short visit to District Hospital, Changlang to take stock of the infrastructures, services provision, manpower and overall sanitary condition of the hospital today

While praising the doctors and the staffs for maintaining cleanliness and providing quality health care services to the people the DC expressed concern over the sinking of a portion of the hospital building. However, he assured to take up the matter with competent authorities for saving the hospital areas.

Later, he addressed the health workers and ANMS from various Sub-Centres, PHCs and CHCs of Changlang district while attending training on Routine Immunization. He advised them to receive qualitative training so that they can go back to community and serve and educate people comfortably on preventive aspects of the diseases. DIPRO

Poor service resented

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: Arunachal Pradesh Abo Tani Clans Youth Organization has regretted poor service of Vodafone mobile network in the state.

Organization has asked the company to take urgent steps to improve its mobile service as customers are facing lot of problem due to poor service.

Album released

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: A new Nyishi audio cum CD album comprising of folk and modern song was released on 1st September in presence of Tali MLA Markio Tado.

Bandh supported

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: Nyapin, Sangram, Phassang Student’s Union (NSPSU) has supported the proposed bandh on 6th September by All Nyishi Students Union. The union has strongly supported demand for the road connectivity from Nyapin to Chyangtajo in East Kameng and Mengio to Nyapin.

ESDP on computer hardware

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Institute, Itanagar branch is going to organize an Entrepreneurship Skill Development Programme (ESDP) on ‘computer hardware and maintenance’ at SSI Computer education here from Sept 16 to 27.

Teachers reiterates status quo

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: A joint delegation of Central Executive committees of Arunachal Teachers Association and HM/VP called on the Education Minister Bosiram Siram yesterday and reiterated its demand for modification of some vital provisions of the proposed bills on subordinate legislation of Arunachal Education Act 2010. The delegations appealed the minister to maintain status quo of the position of both the principal and deputy director of school education as the up-gradation of post of DDSE would deprive the majority of teachers from holding the post of DDSE. The minister reportedly assured the delegation to look into the matter positively.

Student’s death mourned

ITANAGAR, Sept 03: All Palin Chambang, Yangte Gangte and Tarak-Langdi Students’ Union expressed shock and grief at the sudden demise of Nguri Tana, a 3rd semester student of Arunachal Law Academy, Naharlagun. He was son of Nguri Logi of Rebung village under Yangte circle of Kurung Kumey district.

The members of the association observed two minutes silence to mourn his death and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul. They also conveyed their heartfelt condolence to the bereft family members to bear the irreparable loss.

Resume bus service

ITANAGAR, Sept 3: All Maro Baririjo Area Students’ Union (AMBASU) demanded the authorities concerned of STS department to immediately resume bus services from Daporijo to Baririjo.

The students union said in a release that APST bus services from the district headquarter to Baririjo has been suspended few months back due to unknown reason.

Condolence

SARLI, Sept 3: The Yangfo Welfare Society has deeply mourned the demise of Tapo Yangfo, Anchal Chairperson of Sarli, Kurung Kumey who died on Thursday morning after a long bout of illness. Tapo is survived by 4 children and his wife. The Society prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family.

Arunachal win bronze

ITANAGAR: Demonstrating its worst ever performance, the 28-member Arunachal Taekwondo squad returned here yesterday managing to win just a bronze in the 28th National Sub-junior Boys and Girls Taekwondo Championship held at Guwahati from August 28 to 30 last.

Ranjit Biswakarma’s bronze medal won in under 38 kg category saved the Arunachal the blushes, according to All Arunachal Taekwondo Association release.

Workshop cum seminar

ITANAGAR: The Department of Cooperation is organizing its first ever state level cooperative seminar cum workshop to draft state level cooperative policy on September 8 and 9 here in Itanagar.

Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu will attend the workshop cum seminar as chief guest while a galaxy of ministers, parliamentary secretaries would also attend. Managing director NCDC, New Delhi, will be the special guest.

APCC congratulates Sonia

ITANAGAR: The rank and file of Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) congratulated Sonia Gandhi for being elected unopposed as the president of Indian National Congress (INC) for record fourth term.

"Gandhi will spearhead the responsibility for next term to further strengthen the party organization right from grassroot level and dedicate herself in nation building to realize the dreams of Rajiv Gandhi to make India a Super Power in the world," APCC said in a congratulatory message. It also lauded the party cadres for reposing faith in the leadership of Gandhi and exhorted them to work with sincerity and dedication for the greater interest of INC.