April 09
CBI enquiry demanded in Mathew Dabi death case
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: The All Arunachal Pradesh Elementary Teachers Association (AAPETA) has requested the state governor to order CBI enquiry into Mathew Dabi death case. Late Dabi, a junior teacher was found dead in mysterious condition while on election duty on April 9, 2014.
In a reminder letter to the Governor, the Association resented that despite representations
submitted twice to the state Govt for immediate arrest of the culprits involved
in killing of Mathew Dabi earlier, the Govt has failed to arrest the culprits even
after 12 months of the incident. Claiming that the post-
Suspects in Bunu Rawat death case re-
Maksam Tayeng
PASIGHAT, Apr 08: Pasighat Police has re-
While expressing satisfaction over the district administration and police action over Bunu Rawat death case, Pasighat Municipality Councilor Makpak Peyang, who is leading a justice demand committee in the case, said that their fight for justice finally yielded result. Peyang who along with members from Gorkha Justice Forum Assam, met East Siang SP on Monday, said that police and administration have assured to give compensation to the family of the deceased under provision of state government.
Assembly prorogued
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Arunachal Pradesh Governor has prorogued the fourth session of the sixth Legislative Assembly at the conclusion of its sitting on March 5, 9 and 10.
AIMC secy takes stock of APMCC functioning
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: During his maiden visit to Itanagar, All India Mahila Congress
(AIMC) secretary, in-
While explaining the role of Mahila Congress in the state, Haque assured to take up the problems being faced by the Mahila Congress with higher authorities. During the meeting, the AIMC secretary also reviewed the preparation for the proposed state Mahila convention scheduled to be held on April 28 next. AICC president Sonia Gandhi and AIMC New Delhi president Shobha Oza are expected to grace the Mahila convention. In her address, APMCC president Kamala Lingi highlighted the activities of Mahalia Congress in the state. She assured to work for the party with renewed vigor in future.
Among others, former APMCC president Yari Dulom, APMCC vice presidents Nabam Yakum, Mai Modi, Chera Mekia also spoke on the occasion.
Avenue plantation at Menle Botom Tourist Lodge complex
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: An avenue plantation was organized in the Menle Botom Tourist Lodge complex by the Managing Director of the tourist lodge in collaboration with Department of Environment & Forest, Upper Subansiri District today.
Daporijo MLA cum APEDA Chairman Dikto Yekar, Deputy Commissioner Komkar Dulom, Superintendent of Police Taru Gusar and Divisional Forest Officer Taji Bui led all Heads of Department of Upper Subansiri district during tree plantation programme with theme "Green Daporijo".
Appreciating the initiative of Managing Director of the tourist lodge Dosh Dasi,
MLA Dikto appealed to the HoDs to join their hands together and work united in developmental
works. He said that he had already discussed at government level regarding construction
of a wire-
Deputy Commissioner Komkar Dulom said that tree plantation is one of his priority agendas in making Daporijo clean and green. He advised the MD of the lodge to train his staff in catering and hospitality service and plant more flowering trees for beautification of the tourist lodge.
The Deputy Commissioner appealed to all the Heads of Department and social workers, senior citizens to cooperate with the Managing Director for smooth running of the lone tourist lodge in the district which was lying defunct for decades in a dilapidated condition before it was taken up by him.
SP Taru Gusar assured police patrolling at night in the township in order to maintain law and order.
Earlier, Dosh Dasi announced to launch the website of Menle Botom Tourist Lodge for easy communication and booking cum online tourist lodge reservation for domestic as well as foreign tourists.
Er. TK Tagin, SE (RWD) also spoke on the occasion.
Kabak Kampu FC play Re-
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Kabak Kampu FC will play against Re-
Kabak Kampu FC entered into the final defeating Palin United FC 2-
Michi Bhai and Tamuk Taja scored one goal each for Kabak Kampu FC while the lone goal for Palin United FC was scored by Kioda Tamo.
For Re-
Mopin reverberates at Aalo
AALO Apr 08: The Mopin festival celebration ended at Aalo after performing Riga at Donyi Polo Dere complex.
Earlier, the Popir parties in their house to house visit programme visited Siang Sadan, official residence of Chief Patron of CMCC, house of Pinge Neri, Chief Advisor, CMCC President, Secretary and other senior citizens of Aalo.
At Siang Sadan, the Chief Patron Pige Ligu extended his Mopin greetings and appealed one and all to maintain the spirit of celebration in future. He also felicitated the priests, popir parties of CMCC, Upper and Sipu colony. DIPRO
‘Ban donation collection’
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Arunachal Pradesh Abo Tani Clans Youth Organisation (APATCYO) has
requested the authorities concerned to ban collection of "donation" in the name
of Abo-
In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, the organization further said that Govt should take action against any persons if found involved in collection of donation without prior permission from appropriate authority.
INTUC for establishment of school for children of labourers
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Indian National Trade Union Congress, Arunachal Pradesh in a joint meeting with All Arunachal Pradesh Workers Union and other workers and labour unions in a meeting here today unanimously requested the state Govt for establishment of schools for the children of the labourers in every district in a phase manner. The meeting also resolved that the Govt should establish 3 bedded hospital for labourers and enhance the daily wagers of the labourers besides labour cooperative society in every district.
AAPETA writes to CS
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Claiming that the Arunachal Teachers' Association (ATA) CEC had
issued a circular Dt March 20 to all the DDSEs, and DPOs of the districts to deduct
Rs 1000 each from contingency, D-
In a letter to Chief Secretary, the Association said that the collection of an mount from the salary of the contingency staff is illegal and unjustified as it will create extra burden for them who are already facing acute financial constraint due to meager salary. It further said that Govt is the sole authority to look after the welfare of its workers.
Tagin writers' workshop gets underway
Karda Natam
DAPORIJO, Apr 8: Six days Tagin Writers Workshop was inaugurated by Dikto Yekar, local MLA cum Chairman APEDA here today at Rijo Conference Hall.
While explaining the aim and objective of the workshop Lardik Kare, Secretary General TCS informed that many dialects/languages in the world have become extinct from world and thousands declared vulnerable among which Tagin language is one of them.
He said that it has become very important to preserve and promote languages as one is identified through their languages and dialects.
Development of language is part of cultural development and everyone in the community should equally be responsible for its safe keep, he said.
Local MLA Dikto Yekar appreciated the noble work of Tagin Cultural Society for promoting and preserving the language. He cited the example of Japan where local languages are given more importance than others.
Deputy Commissioner Komkar Dulom said everyone should come forward and work for preservation of languages. He regretted that young generation are not speaking their own languages and every parents need to teach their children how to speak the language.
While addressing the gathering, Resource person Jenny Sangma, from Shillong said that all the languages are important in their own communities. She also underscored the need for speaking the local languages.
The Tagin Writers Workshop is being organized under the literacy development programme by Tagin Cultural Society in collaboration with North East Cultural Training and Research, Shillong, informed Secretary General TCS Lardik Kare.
Altogether 21 individuals from Tagin community were selected for the training in workshop.
BJP unit appeals for release of salary of DRDA employees
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: The Dibang Valley district unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has requested the state government for immediate release of outstanding salaries and wages of DRDA employees of Dibang Valley.
Although the DRDA employees are found to be very active and more enthusiastic in rendering their valuable services during the programme of national importance, like BPL survey, census house listing operation and poll duties both in Assembly and Parliamentary election they have to suffer frustration and mental agony due to non payment of their monthly salaries and wages on time and their service benefits at par with other employees of line departments, said the BJP unit its representation to the state chief minister.
Describing the financial hardships being faced by the DRDA employees of the district, the district BJP requested the chief minister to release their outstanding salaries and wages as soon as possible to them give financial respite.
YOMA demands white paper on alleged financial mismanagement
ITANAGAR, April 8: Youth Organization Movement of Arunachal Pradesh (YOMA) has demanded white paper from the state Govt on the current financial position of the state. Terming the clarification of Govt spokesperson on financial position, the YOMA alleged that the serious financial emergency situation occurred after the present CM took over the charge of finance and planning.
Citing the press statement of former minister Kalikho Pul, the organization also questioned where 292.32 crore relief fund has gone.
Former Minister Pul in his statement had alleged that the state government had received
an amount of Rs. 519.13 crore from the Centre under National Disaster Response Fund
(NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) from 2011-
Skill dev training
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: A six days skill development programme on handicraft for villagers under integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) commenced at Khumung Pathar village under Bordumsa circle yesterday.
Additional Deputy Commissioner S Miji, who inaugurated the programme, advised the trainees to avail full opportunity of the training to hone their skills. Just providing implements and materials will not yield desired results and that why this programme has been organized, he said, while stressing the need for undergoing such training to develop skills and knowledge which will be useful for them in earning livelihood.
Training will be held on wooden and bamboo handicrafts for men and paper craft /origami for women trainees.
The training is being conducted by two experts in handicrafts from Guwahati as resource persons.
Bordumsa BDO T. Riba was also present during the inaugural function.
Corrigendum
The Arunachal Youth Organisation (AYO) was erroneously written as CYO in yesterday's edition of this daily. The error is regretted.
News Impact
Murder of democracy, says Arunachal organisations as it flays Centre for extending AFSPA
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Several organisations have strongly opposed the "forcible and unjust imposition" of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 by Ministry of Home Affairs in all the districts of Arunachal Pradesh bordering the state of Assam vide its notification No. S.O.869 dated 27th March 2015.
The right based organizations also urged the state government to immediately take up the matter with MHA for the safety and security of the state and its people.
Arunachal Citizens Right (ACR), All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU), Human Right & Law Network (Arunachal Chapter), Global Human Right Organization (GHRO), Nefa Indigenous Human Right Organization (NIHRO), Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society (APWWS), Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum(AITF) have come out with an angry press statement in reaction to the Centre's decision.
"AFSPA contravenes international human rights law and continued imposition of such Act tantamount to systematic violation of indigenous peoples' rights and encroaching upon the internal affairs of the State, and supersedes the sovereign and plenary powers of the State Government in the governance of its internal affairs such as law and order, and public order," the organisations pointed out.
AFSPA is particularly to deal with the disturbed areas and presence of banned organizations. There are as many as 36 banned organizations throughout the country as per Ministry of Home Affairs list but there is no such banned organization functioning in the state of Arunachal Pradesh. So why AFSPA is necessary to be extended to the state of Arunachal Pradesh, the organisations asked.
There are many instances of army killings of innocent people by using AFSPA in Tirap, Changlang and Longding.
In 2005, a group of Armed forces in civil dress entered Banderdewa check gate in
a commercial Maruti van. When police asked to stop; they said they were Indian army.
The police informed the police stations in Naharlagun and Itanagar but they could
not be stopped and when intercepted by the then on duty office magistrate with CRPF
battalion at Bank tinali, they pointed there Ak-
In March 26th 2007 a private member resolution was moved by MLA Wanglin Lowangdong for withdrawal of the Disturbed Areas notification under the AFSPA 1958 in its fourth Arunachal Pradesh Legislative
Assembly and accordingly, after threadbare discussion, the Assembly unanimously
resolved to scrap AFSPA from the state and same was communicated to MHA but unfortunately,
MHA hasn't agreed to the Assembly resolution which is not only an insult to the people
of Arunachal Pradesh but also murder of democracy and unconstitutional. The nightmare
of military oppression under AFSPA which was confined to only the Naga Hills in 1950s
spread to Lushai Hill in the 1960s, to Tripura and Imphal valley in 1970s and Brahmaputra
valley in 1980s. Tirap and Changlang districts as well as the border areas with Assam
of Arunachal Pradesh are also declared 'disturbed' under AFSPA. Today all the seven
sister States of the North East is poke-
The exercise of special powers has also gone way beyond the "limited purpose" as
the military stationed in the "disturbed areas" have indulged in rampant violation
of the human rights including aerial bombing, grouping and re-
The organisations reminded that Irom Sharmila Chanu is entering the 15th year of her hunger strike against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA). She began her fast following the massacre of 10 civilians by the Indian armed forces at Malom in the outskirts of Imphal on 2 November 2000.
Once an area is declared 'disturbed' under AFSPA, the armed forces can destroy any
property and can arrest, detain, torture and even kill any person on mere suspicion.
AFSPA gives them immunity from prosecution to carry out such egregious human rights
violations. As such, the phenomena of enforced 'disappearances', extra-
Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) also expressed its resentment over the recent central government decision to extend AFSPA in 12 districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
Declaring 12 districts of Arunachal as disturbed area and decision to extend AFSPA
is total violation of human right, it said. We all know that there are only few disturbed
districts because of anti-
The powers of the armed forces under AFSPA:
Ø After giving due warning, officers can fire upon those acting unlawfully, even if it causes death, for the maintenance of public order.
Ø Destroy any arms dump, or fortified shelters or training camps which are used to attack from.
Ø To arrest without warrant anyone who has committed cognizable offence or is suspected to have done so.
Ø To enter and search any premises to make such arrests.
Ø To stop and search any vehicle reasonably suspected.
Ø Army officers have legal immunity over their offences. There can be no prosecution, suit or legal action taken against them.
Ø The government's decision on any area deemed disturbed cannot be brought under judicial review.
Compensate for the years lost, denied opportunities and humiliation: Yobins
[ Taba Ajum ]
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Once known as the forbidden tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, Yobins, who are also known as Lisus, are rejoicing the restoration of Arunachal Pradesh Schedule Tribe Status to them. Last month Govt had accorded ST status to them ending years of painful wait. Though they are happy with this new found status, they also feel bitter about the humiliation suffered all through the years.
"Generations of Yobins have been victim of the wrong decision. Will anyone compensate us for that? We are very proud Arunachalee tribal and honestly it hurt us very badly when our own government kept on denying us our basic fundamental rights," said Philip Ngwazah, one of the prominent youth leaders of Yobin community.
Crediting Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and local MLA cum Minister of Food and Civil Supply Kamlung Mossang for restoration of their rights, he also appealed government of Arunachal for special consideration for Yobin tribe.
"Due to denial of our rights, we are lagging behind our fellow tribesmen in every field. Therefore if possible government should provide us special grant," Philip added.
The Yobin community has also appreciated the support extended by people of Arunachal in their fight. "Earlier some of our Arunachalee people mistook us as refugees. However after lot of interaction everyone understood our plight and started supporting us. Without support of the fellow tribesmen of state, we could not have achieved this status," said Philip.
Yobins live mainly in Vijoynagar Circle under Changlang district and are spread in 11 villages. They first came into contact with Indian authorities on 7th May 1961, when 7th Assam Rifles expedition team led by Major Sumer Singh entered the Moloshidi Valley and reached the largest village in the valley, Shidi (now called Gandhigram). After that Assam Rifles started settling their retired personnel especially those hailing from the Gorkha community in the area.
"Historical record shows that some of Yobin people reached Sadiya(Assam) around 1917 when world war I was about to end. But no one was aware about their existence in Vijoynagar area. Probably just prior to 1962 war, when Indian Air Force was carrying out surveillance in the area, they noticed presence of human settlement. That is why an Assam Rifle team was sent on an expedition. They deserve ST as record shows that Yobins reached Arunachal before independence," shared a senior leader of Changlang district.
The problems started for them when in early 1980's, the government removed the rights of citizenship from the Yobins. They were branded as refugees and names of Yobin people were deleted from the electoral role. However in 1994, citizenship was restored but they were denied APST status. Large numbers of Yobin people are still found in Yunnan province, China and also in Myanmar.
One of the main reasons for denying of ST rights to them was fear of migration of Yobin people from Myamnar into India.
But Yobins of Vijoynagar dispels such wrong notion. "We are facing shortage of land in our area. Situation is so bad that some people have encroached upon Namdapha national park. Therefore even we don't want anyone to come to our area. So, question of people from other side entering Vijoynagar is just not possible as we are also strongly opposed to it," said Philip.
The restoration of ST status has started the process of healing the wounds of Yobin community. Only time will tell what effect this will have on the life of ordinary Yobins. For the moment they are just enjoying this new found status, even though, they are acutely aware that mere restoration of ST status will not solve their problems.
Centre to deploy 8,000 more ITBP men along China border in Arunachal
New Delhi, Apr 08: As part of its plan to boost the presence of security personnel and infrastructure along the China border, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, the NDA government has decided to deploy additional 8,000 men, open 35 new roads, create 54 border outposts and 72 staging camps along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Union Home Ministry last week gave an 'in principle' nod to raise 16 additional battalions of the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Force.
Of these, 8000 men (around 8 battalions) will be deployed in the Northeast, mainly in Arunachal Pradesh.
After the Ladakh sector in J&K, the Tawang area sees the maximum transgressions by the Chinese Army. Besides Arunachal, China shares border with India along Sikkim. "During the time we hold fresh recruitment drives to enroll 16,000 men into the force, 8,000 of whom who will be deployed in Arunachal Pradesh, we would start boosting our infrastructure in the state. There are 54 BOPs that have to be constructed. These will be built 50 km apart from each other. It is going to be a huge exercise," said a senior Home Ministry official. Arunachal Pradesh currently has 45 BOPs.
The Ministry has also sent a proposal to the Finance Ministry to sanction funds for
35 border roads. In the first phase in 2008, the government had sanctioned 27 priority
roads in the areas along China border. Of them, only two are complete. The second
phase includes 49 new roads, of which clearance has been sought for 35. The third
phase, which is yet to be implemented even on paper, has plans for 103 more roads.
All these proposals of the Home Ministry will be sent to the Finance Ministry and
then the China Study Group for final approval. (Source-
Linguistic survey of Arunachal needed: Secretary Research
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: Stating that indigenous languages are going to become endangered in contemporary Arunachalee society, Research, IPR and Printing secretary Dani Salu yesterday emphasized the need of Linguistic Survey of Arunachal Pradesh. "As nodal agency, the research department should shoulder the responsibility," he added.
In his key note address at the coordination meeting related to Linguistic Survey of Arunachal Pradesh organized by Directorate of Research at Conference Hall J.N. State Museum here, Dani Salu, lauded the contributions of the research department and called upon the research officers to work with passionate zeal despite having multidimensional constrains.
Research Director Batem Pertin sought for optimum cooperation, dedication and passionate endeavors to bring back the glory of research department. "Research officers should undertake innovative and analytical research projects for extension of academic research as well as to cope up with the need of contemporarily society," he said adding officers should work collectively for linguistic survey as emphasized by research secretary.
Earlier, Asstt. Director (Culture), in-
Konggo Tayeng, senior most District Research Officer, Roing also highlighted the constraint of field research officers and suggested to make remedial measure for the sake of effective service to the people. He emphasized on collective research, rather than individual research.
T. Norbu, Deputy Director (Culture), Dr. S K Ghosh, In-
[ Amar Sangno ]
DIRANG, Apr 08: Andriam Saikia of Assam with his Polarise (1000 CC) is closely following defending champion and leader Gaurav Gil in the Sprint Round in the Second JK Tyre Arunachal Festival of Speed 2015 at Sangti Valley, about 8 kilometers from Dirang town.
Andriam Saikia took 2.26. 73 minutes to finish ahead of leader Gaurav Gill in the first lap, who took 2.36.43 minutes to finish behind Saikia in the three kilometer track. Gill, however, reclaimed the top spot in the second lap with an improved timing of 2.20.69 minutes.
Andriam refused to take the second lap as he wanted to keep his car safe for the Hill Climb, the final stage of competition.
Jitu Kalita of Arunachal finished one second behind Gaurav with 2.37 .69 minutes in the first lap. Kalita was forced to slow down in the second lap after he suffered a tyre burst. He finished the lap with 244.84 seconds.
While speaking to this reporter on the sideline of the event, Gaurav Gill expressed his confidence to win the competition.
"I am pretty confident that I will win the race", he said.
"Polarize is built for such track, so Andriam had an edge over me in the first lap," Gill said, when he was asked to express his feeling after Andraim took the lead in the first lap.
Youngest driver of the event Alex Bora (21) suffered a big jolt as he had to pull out of the Sprint round after the bumper of his car broke in the bumpy and dusty track.
Navinpal Singh Yadav of Delhi had a narrow escape from a major accident as his car turned turtle while negotiating a curve near finishing line. So far, more than six cars have broken down in the race.
The final round Hill Climb will be held at Runja village, Sangti Pudung tomorrow.
More than 8 kilos of gun power seized in Tirap, Longding
KHONSA, April 8: Explosive gun powder weighing approximately 4.5 kg was seized from Laitoh Wangsa, a resident of Pongchau village under Longding district on April 7 by the 36 Bn CRPF. The recovery led to another 4 kilos which was later found from one Khumlom Wangnaw of Kheti village, Tirap.
Wangsa was on the way to Pongchau from Khonsa when he was caught with the gun powder
by 36 Bn CRPF supervised by its CO while at Naka duty on Khonsa -
Later, CRPF along with Arunachal police searched the house of Khumlom Wangnaw at Kheti village where approximately 4(four) more kilograms of explosive gun powder were recovered.
Later on, Laitoh Wangsa and Khumlom Wangnaw were handed over to Police Station, Khonsa along with explosive recovered. The DIGP civil police, CO 36 Bn CRPF, CO 1st AR and SP Khonsa were also present on the spot of Naka point.
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: All Sagalee Youth Federation (ASYF) in a representation to the
Chief Engineer, Public Work Department (Western Zone) appealed for re-
In its representation to the CE, ASYF informed that the advertisement for the work was published in local daily on September 17, 2014 for an amount of Rs 7, 43, 98, 000 only out of the total approved amount of Rs 92,100, 000 and remaining amount of Rs 17, 702,000 was not included in the NIT. The Office of the Sagalee PWD division following a complaint lodged by ASYF had floated an open tender through its official website on February 28, 2015 for the rest of amounts. But this time too, advertisement was given for an amount of Rs.65, 00000 only.
The Federation demanded the CE to direct the Sagalee PWD Division to float tender for the remaining amounts Rs. 11, 202, 000 within a month failing which the organization will launch democratic movement for fulfillment of the demand, the representation said.
In another representation to the CE, PWD (WZ), the ASYF appealed for immediate floating of open tender against the work of construction of playground at Govt. Residential School, Sango under Leporiang circle.
It said that an amount of Rs one crore has been sanctioned last month for construction of a playground at Govt. Residential school Sango through the Executive Engineer, PWD, Sagalee division under state plan subject to availability of fund.
While urging the CE to direct the Executive Engineer, Sagalee PWD Division to float
tender notice against the said scheme as per CPWD norms and guidelines, ASYF, at
the same time, appealed him to ensure that funds meant for the work are not mis-
Meanwhile, ASYF has lodged a complaint with Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner against
Sushee Infra-
Dumping of mud and soil accumulation is not only littering the entire area but also damaging public properties, natural resources and aquatic animals, like fishes, claimed ASYF in its complaint letter. It further informed that a complainant was arrested by police for registering protest against the road executing company's alleged illegal dumping of soils.
The youth federation demanded the DC to withhold the formation cutting works until compensations are fully paid against the properties lost or damaged due to illegal dumping of soils. It also demanded the DC to immediately release the arrested person.
NBF felicitates meritorious students of Tirap
KHONSA, Apr 08: Namsang-
The cash and certificates were given away by the local MLA and the Deputy Commissioner.
Speaking on the occasion local MLA Wanglam Sawin while describing the award function as very significant appreciated Wanglin Lowangdong, Minister, Chief of Borduria and a Trustee of the NBF for instituting the award in memory of his late father Towang Lowangdong, former chief of Borduria. He expressed happiness over the fact that the meritorious students were felicitated for their hard work and achievements which would inspire the other students to emulate their shining examples. The MLA also appreciated the NBF for its involvement in not only creating infrastructures but also in helping the students and poor patients by giving them grants in aid.
Dwelling at length on the problems of Khonsa Township, Sawin told the gathering that he along with the other elected representatives is putting their best efforts to address the problems and mitigate the woes of the people and sought cooperation of all stakeholders.
Lowangdong in his keynote address said that the award was instituted in memory of late Towang Lowangdong, former chief of Borduria to recognize the latent talents and caliber of the Tirap students adding that it was a small step towards encouraging the Nocte students to aim for better academic results. He highlighted the activities of the NBF, Lowangdong and recalled the tremendous contributions made by the former chiefs of Borduria and Namsang. While emphasizing on the importance of quality education, the minister said that no society could make any headway in any field without education.
In his speech Tirap Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of NBF hoped that the achievers would inspire others to study harder. He lauded the former chiefs of Borduria and Namsang for creating the NBF which was catering to the needs of the people in many spheres.
Earlier, Techu Aran , EAC threw light on the activities of the NBF and Former chief of Borduria, Towang Lowangdong also spoke on the occasion.
On the occasion, the Nocte documentary film "Atei Awa Damaan Ko" narrated and directed by Denhang Bosai, Secretary of Society for Promotion of Nocte Indigenous Culture was also premiered and youths of Borduria and Lapnan villages presented cultural programmes. DIPRO
Mission Indradhanush launched 49 children vaccinated in Seppa
ITANAGAR, Apr 08: A total 49 left out children were vaccinated for seven killer diseases on the launching day of the Mission Indradhanush in Seppa, East Kameng district yesterday.
The out reach session was planned for 5 colonies of Seppa, namely Bebo colony, NV
model village, Rajaa Bapak, Kameng Tampaa and Type-
Additional Deputy Commissioner Pooja Jain formally kicked off the programme by administering OPV drops to a child in presence of District Medical Officer Dr. N. Geiyi, DRCHO Dr. K. Lapung, DVBDCPO Dr. D. Pizi, other officers and officials of health department.
Earlier, the District Health Society held a meeting in the conference hall of the
East Kameng Deputy Commissioner to chalk-
East Kameng Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh, who also is the Chairman of the District Health Society, appealed to all stakeholders, including civil societies and religious bodies, to extend full cooperation to the department to ensure that all unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children against seven vaccine preventable diseases are fully vaccinated.
In East Siang district, 24 children and 2 mothers were vaccinated during the launching
day of the 'Mission Indradhanus" yesterday at Seram Village under Mebo sub-
East Siang Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Srivastava, who was also present during the launching ceremony, personally interacted with the villagers and mothers and explained them about the importance of vaccination. She awarded cash prize of Rs. 500 each to three healthy babies.
ADC (HQ) Ruchika Katyal, ADC Mebo Yemling Tayeng, DMO Dr. Dubom Bagra, DRCH Dr. T. Gao, ZPC Kaling Dai and many panchayat leaders were present on the occasion.
-
AFSPA is here
The Government of India has surprised people of Arunachal by extending controversial
Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) to 12 districts of state for one year. Till
now AFSPA was in place at Tirap, Changlang and Longding where Naga rebels are active
and also in the area within 20 km from Assam boundary. The imposition of this dreaded
law in 12 new districts is deeply disturbing to hear and has potential to disturb
the social harmony. Union home ministry has cited alleged presence of insurgent groups
along the Assam-
This draconian law gives immense power to the security forces. Some of the power
include shoot-
-
Why should the peace-
Dear Editor,
Apropos to the news item published regarding extension of AFSPA to 12 new districts of Arunachal Pradesh, I on behalf of the Galo Students Union (Apex) would like to put forward my views regarding the same. The news item came as a shock to me as until recently the AFSPA was in operation only in the three districts viz., Tirap, Changlang & Longding of A.P.
While introducing the act on 11 Aug, 1958 at Lok Sabha, then Union Home Minister G.B.Pant had stated that the act was for the protection of the army against the hostile Nagas. He had also assured the house then that it would be used only in “exceptional circumstances”. But over the years since its enactment it has been extended to J&K, Mizoram, Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland and parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
The Act has faced criticism globally for its draconian provisions which effectively curtails basic rights enjoyed by the citizens and under which numerous instances of gross human rights violations by the armed forces have reportedly taken place. Section 3 of the act empowers the state or central govt. to declare whole or part of the territory to be ‘a disturbed area’ if in its opinion” it is in such a disturbed or dangerous condition that the use of armed forces in aid of the civil power is necessary”.
Section 4 of the act reads thus:-
(b) If he is of the opinion that it is necessary to do, destroy any arms dump, prepared or fortified positions or shelter from which armed attacks or are likely to be made or are attempted to be made, or any structure used as training camp for armed volunteers or utilized as a hideout by armed groups or absconders wanted for any offence (c)Arrest without warrant, any person who has committed a cognizable offence or against whom a reasonable suspicion exists that he has committed or is about to commit a cognizable offence and may use such force as may be necessary to effect the arrest (d) Enter & Search without warrant any premises to make any such arrests as aforesaid or to recover any person believed to be wrongfully restrained or confined any property reasonably suspected to be stolen property or any arms, ammunition or explosive substances believed to be unlawfully kept in such premises and may for that purpose use such force as may be necessary.
Further the 1958 act not only applies to the three armed forces but also extends to the paramilitary forces like the ITBP, CRPF, and Assam Rifles etc.
Looking at the prevailing circumstances, there are some serious questions which needs to be pondered upon by the denizens of our state and needed to be cleared by the Govt. Both state and central.
When countless organisations like the PUCL, NESO etc and the B.J.Reddy committee have demanded as well as recommended for repeal/review of AFSPA, why has the Central Govt. extended it to the otherwise peaceful districts of Arunachal Pradesh?
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Therefore, the undersigned on behalf of the GSU and the peace-
I would also like to request the BJP Prabhari for Arunachal Pradesh to clarify the
stand of the party regarding the issue. The people had and are still expecting accelerated
development of all sections and regions in the country not Ghar-
Yours,
Marli Kamki
Spokesperson
Galo Students’ Union (Apex)
Rollback the Draconian AFSPA
Dear Editor,
Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) was passed by the Indian parliament in
11 September, 1958 with six sections bestowing upon the security forces with special
powers to use force without any accountability in the disturbed areas. AFSPA was
first introduced in the north-
AFSPA can be notified only if the governor of the state recommends or by the centre because of the following reasons: if,
1.Area is under continuous unrest
2. Rise in insurgency, militancy and
3.When the border is threatened and when the state machinery fails or is inadequate to maintain the administration.
But Arunachal Pradesh has none of the above problems at present. Arunachal has no popular indigenous insurgent groups. The press release states that the border of Arunachal and Assam is used by insurgent groups for hideout. The maritime border states like Maharashtra and West Bengal are more prone to border related threat and has witnessed Mumbai attacks and many cross border activity in both the states. Compared to that, Arunanachal has negligible incidences.
What is happening in Manipur, Assam, Nagaland and J&K is an eye opener for our citizens. This law threatens the life, safety, liberty and basic human rights to every young men and women of our state.
Irom Chanu Sharmila of Manipur has been fighting for the repealing of this draconian act since 2nd November, 2000.
Santosh Hegde, the former Supreme Court judge had also found that the victims of six encounter deaths in Manipur had no criminal records. What is more frustrating is that, none of the military personnel involved in such act has been brought under the law. The United Nations (UN) Human Rights Commissioner N.Pillay in 2009 had also asked the Indian government to repeal the act. This is being followed by Amnesty, the South Asian Human Rights Documentations Centre and Red Cross expressing against AFSPA.
The Act east policy of our P.M and “Acche Din Aane Wali Hai” has brought in the extension of AFSPA. We can’t be treated differently. The very democratic fabric will be killed. This act has snatched the basic human rights of the indigenous people. This is high time that the centre reconsiders its proposal and do not fuel the burning anger among the people. We are also people of this country. Fundamental rights are for every Indian. The news of extension of AFSPA has caused so much anguish among the people that, any further escalation may cause the people to choose the path against the nation’s interest, if the AFSPA is extended instead of repealing it from areas under operational in timely and humane manner. Also the Act must be made more accountable.
This is my earnest and humble appeal to every learned person of Arunachal to voice against the extension of this act or else, it won’t be long to create another Manipur or J&K. The days are not far when we will find armed forces entering our homes and torture our younger generations.
Yours,
Joram Aatum
New Delhi
Let justice prevail
Dear Editor,
The Dr KK Rai incident of DN College has put a big question mark to my desire to be an academician in Arunachal Pradesh. Whenever there is news about students misbehaving with their teachers, I console myself that there will be change in the society where I belong to, that everything will be fine one day. But each and every time, I fall flat to my face. So now my doubt is, do I want to serve those students who will beat me up after all my efforts to teach them? How can a teacher fulfil his/her duty without being scared of their own students? We are talking about why our state is not developing, unemployment and what not but what is the future of our state if we produce such reckless students. If no action is taken against those regular offenders it will be a blow to all those sincere teachers who contribute their soul for the betterment of the society. So please let justice prevail.
Yours,
Millo Yasung
Research Scholar
Tezpur University
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