August 11
2016
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Kalikho Pul’s body reaches native village Hawai
ITANAGAR/ANJAW, Aug 10: The mortal remains of former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Kalikho Pul reached his native village Hawai in remote Anjaw district bordering China for the last rites.
Thousands of people queued up to pay their last respect to their beloved leader Kalikho Pul at Anjaw District helipad, Old Hawai. Later a procession was carried out from Old Hawai Helipad to New Hawai covering a length of 4 kilometres. Young and old thronged his residence at Walla village to pay their homage.
BJP MLA from Tezu Mahesh Chai accompanied the body of Pul along with his relatives in a helicopter which took off at 7:30 AM for Hawai as hundreds of supporters of the leader gave a tearful adieu to him.
Earlier, Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering, AICC Secretary Jay Kumar along with senior party leaders, MLAs and admirers of Pul gathered at the Raj Bhavan helipad here in the morning from where Pul's mortal remains were flown to his native village.
The state government has declared a three-day state mourning and a holiday tomorrow when the last rites of Pul would be performed with full state honours at his native place.
At Pasighat, Officers, leaders and members of various organizations descended at Pasighat heliport to have a last glimpse of their beloved leader Kalikho Pul. People from all walks of life even from far-off places also thronged to pay their homage. The chopper carrying late CM body landed at Pasighat for refueling on its way to Hawai.
Among the dignitaries who paid their tributes to the departed soul included MLAs Kento Rina and Kaling Moyong and DC In-charge Bani Lego, SP Pranav Tayal, PMC Chief Councilor Kaling Doruk and many others.
All shops and commercial establishments at Pasighat downed their shutters today as a mark of respect.
At Tezu, hundreds of tearful supporters thronged at Helipad, rushed to helicopter to have a glimpse of late Pul.
Meanwhile, the various organisations and supporters conducted candle march across the nation for eternal peace of late CM Kalikho Pul. In Shillong hundreds of students today conducted candle march expressing their solidarity to late Pul. (With input from PTI & DIPROs).
LDV, Dibang Valley remains shut as a mark of respect to Pul
[ Karyir Riba ]
ROING, Aug 10: Lower Dibang Valley (LDV) and Dibang Valley districts remained closed for two days since Tuesday to pay homage to the former chief minister Late Kalikho Pul.
The bandh was called by the All Idu Mishmi Students Union (AIMSU) in LDV, and in association with Dibang Valley Students Union in Dibang Valley.
While deeply mourning the death of the former chief minister, the AIMSU also demanded a thorough investigation on Pul's death.
Refusing to believe that someone like Pul with strong personality and mental toughness can take his own life, AIMSU GS Eha Mili said, "Even if he did so, this is a plain case of political murder."
Meanwhile, a pall of gloom descended in the two Dibang Valley districts, Lohit, Anjaw following sudden and premature demise of the former chief minister.
BJP demands high-level probe into Pul’s death
New Delhi, Aug 10: BJP today demanded a high-level, independent probe into the death of former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, who allegedly committed suicide, saying people wanted to know the truth behind his demise.
"Pul was a doughty leader. His death under such circumstances is very unfortunate and a matter of probe. BJP demands that there should be a high-level independent investigation into it. People want to know the truth behind his death," BJP National Secretary Shrikant Sharma said.
He wondered what was the stress that led to his alleged suicide and spoke about the internal crisis in Congress which he had joined back after defecting from it, along with several party MLAs, to become the state's Chief Minister with the BJP's support.
Pul briefly served as the chief minister from February 19 to July 13 before the Supreme Court reinstated the Nabam Tuki government.
47-year-old Pul was found dead at the Chief Minister's official residence yesterday which he was yet to vacate. PTI
State mourns Pul’s death
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: Messages condoling the death of former chief minister Kalikho Pul are still pouring in from various quarters from across the state.
The State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) deeply mourned the tragic demise of Pul, saying that the state as well the country has lost a young and promising leader in his death.
Former chief minister Gegong Apang, State BJP president Tapir Gao, senior party leaders, MLAs, former ministers and office bearers assembled in the party head office at H Sector on Wednesday and observed two minutes silence as a mark of respect to the departed leader.
Floral tributes were paid to decorated portrait of Pul by all those present on the occasion led by former chief minister Apang and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.
Addressing the condolence meeting, Apang, leader of BJP legislature Tamiyo Taga, former minister Atum Welley and State BJP vice president Kenyir Ringu remembered him as most dedicated, hard working and visionary leader the state has ever produced.
He was a man known for his simplicity, hard work, honesty which earned him lots of praise including the People's Chief Minister, they said and recalled his immense contribution towards development of the state during his short stint as the chief minister.
Terming his death as a huge loss for the state in particular and the country as a whole, the party said that Pul's name will be written in golden letters in the pages of political history of the state.
Meanwhile, the party conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family to bear the loss.
Expressing deep shock and grief over sudden death of Pul, Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Tenzing Norbu Thongdok in a condolence message said that he (Pul) was true son of soil, down to earth person and a veteran politician, who led from the front, and left behind a legacy of People's Chief Minister.
"Besides, proving his caliber in governance by holding the helms of chief minister, Pul rendered yeoman services during his short tenure of four months as chief minister. Known for his amiable nature, Pul will be remembered for his highly successful tenure as chief minister and will remain a source of inspiration for the young generation," Thongdok said in a condolence message to his wife.
"May almighty rest his departed soul in eternal peace."
Thongdok also prayed almighty to give courage and strength to the bereaved family members to overcome the tragedy.
Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) expressed shock and sadness over premature death of veteran party leader and former chief minister Pul and termed his death an irreparable loss for the state and country as well.
"Pul was young, energetic and vibrant Congress leader, who made significant contribution towards the welfare of the people of the state as a longest service finance minister. He death has caused an irreparable loss to the state and the country which would be difficult to fill," APCC said in a condolence message.
The party conveyed its deep sense of condolence to the bereaved family and prayed to almighty to rest his departed soul in eternal peace.
Meanwhile, AICC Secretary and party's in-charge for Arunachal Pradesh Dr. K Jayakumar and former Assam MLA and AICC Secretary Bhupen Bora, on behalf of AICC president Sonia Gandhi and vice president Rahul Gandhi paid last respect to Pul at Itanagar on Wednesday.
Expressing profound grief and sorrow over premature death of Pul, the members of Mishmi community residing in Capital Complex described his death a big loss not only for the family and the community members but also for the entire state.
In Pul's death, we has lost a visionary leader and politician, an able and efficient administrator always accessible to the common people, who led the society from the front, a generous patron of people in need, said Mishmi Welfare Society, Itanagar.
"May his great soul rest in peace and God give energy to the bereaved family members to bear the irreparable loss," the society said in a condolence message.
Expressing his shock and sadness over untimely demise of the former chief minister, MLA Paknga Bage, in a condolence message to Dangwimsai Pul, wife of late Kalikho Pul said, "In his death the state has lost a young, dynamic and multi-talented political leader."
His sudden demise has left the people of the state stunned, confused and in unimaginable pain, the message said adding that the void created by his death can not be filled easily.
While conveying his deepest sense of condolence to Pul's wife and other bereaved family members, Pakgna prayed to almighty for eternal peace of the departed soul and also give courage to withstand the tragedy.
Former MLA Nani Ribia also expressed deep shock and sadness over demise of Pul, saying that the vacuum created by his death in state politics would be difficult to fill.
He was the leader of masses, savior of poor and needy people that earned him respect from all, the former MLA said in a condolence message.
Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society (APWWS) has expressed deep shock at the untimely and sudden death of Ex-CM Kalikho Pul.
Describing the former CM as one of the visionary leaders of the state, the Society said, late Pul was very much proactive and eager to bring positive change in the state. Pul had accepted the proposal of the Society in toto for inclusion of women member in the process of planning and policy decision in State Development Council. Accordingly, it was announced through a notification that Chairperson of State Women Commission shall be invited in the SDC, the Society said. It appealed to the present Govt to continue the good decisions taken by former CM as a market of respect to the visionary leader.
On behalf of entire womenfolk of the state the Society conveyed heartfelt condolence to the family of late Pul and pray to almighty that enough strength and courage may be bestowed the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss.
All Arunachal Pradesh Workers' Union (APPLU) recalled him as leader of workers, who took up various initiatives for the welfare of the workers of the state.
"Pul increased the wages of the workers in his own initiative without being approached by the workers and spent his salaries to meet the expense of poor and needy patients. His selfless services towards people of the state, particularly the working community, will always be remembered by APPLU, the workers union said in a condolence message, and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.
Tagin Welfare Society also deeply mourned the death of Pul and termed his untimely death.
He was a generous, kind-hearted and peace loving person, who contributed immensely towards development of the state. His untimely demise has caused an irreparable loss not only to the state but also the country, the TWS said in a condolence message.
Chief Councillor Kipa Kaku, Deputy Chief Councillor, members of Empowered Standing Committee and all Councillors of Itanagar Municipal Council (IMC) has condoled the death of Pul and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss.
The unexpected death of Pul left the Arunachal Pradesh Doctors' Association stunned and in a state of confused and pain.
Expressed grief and sorrow over sudden demise the former minister, APDA in a condolence message to his D Pul said, "No amount of comforting words and reassurance will ever fill the vacuum left by Pul in the hearts of you and your family members. We haven't in our rarest dream, expected that the most popular public figure of the state and 'Messiah of the children of lesser God' will ever leave us wondering and stand helpless so suddenly."
Pul loved by all sections of the society and hailed as 'Man of Action' has been very closely associated with the medical fraternity and understood us. His love for ailing people and zeal and contribution to address the health care delivery system in the state during his short stint as Minister Health & Family Welfare and Chief Minister will never be forgotten by the members of the Association, the message said.
The staff of the Department of Legal Metrology and Consumer Affairs, Naharlahgun also condoled the death of Pul.
The officers and other staff of the Department led by Controller (LM) and Director (CA) Gorik Dirchi observed two minutes silence as mark of respect to late Pul and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.
Save Arunachal Youth Association (SAYA) expressed shock over sudden and 'mysterious' death of Pul.
"Pul was a visionary leader, who strived for all round development of the state by curbing the menace of corruption, which is deeply rooted in the State and his death has caused an irreparable loss to the state," SAYA said.
Meanwhile, SAYA demanded a CBI probe into Pul's death.
Arunachal Artistes Forum, Arunachal Pradesh Industrial Development Association, All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers' Association, All Arunachal Pradesh Handicapped Welfare Society, Jigi Mite Bomikato Youth Welfare Association, All Arunachal Pradesh Anti corruption Students' Union have also expressed their profound grief and sorrow over sudden demise of Pul and prayed to almighty to rest his departed soul in peace.
Death of a rising star
[ Dr B L Behera ]
Born in an obscure village in Hawai in the undivided Lohit district and braving adversity at every footfall, an orphan had scripted his own destiny. Kalikho Pul's life is not just another narrative of rags to eminence we often come across. He was a man of uncommon substance. He was strong-willed, precocious and diligent from the young age. His ability to learn quickly had received cognizance from the officers of the district when he was working as a casual carpenter and was put in a non-formal school for education. Working as a carpenter during day time and studying in the evening went hand in hand till he joined Govt higher Secondary School and later in IGG College, Tezu.
Humble and decent to the core, Pul had earned many hearts among the student fraternity and the teachers alike which culminated in his election as General Secretary of the Students 'Union for a record-breaking three consecutive terms in IGG College. Unlike his counterparts elsewhere, he would engage more on academic prosperity of the institution during his stint rather than on petty personal pecuniary benefits. I remember, he had endeared himself to each and every student, College Principal and the faculty members of the time for his suave and soft dealings. His sense of humility alongside the maturity had already given an inkling of promise of leadership at that time.
As a student leader, Pul had displayed his organizing ability that attracted the attention of Gegong Apang, the then Chief Minister who not only picked him up for political career but also inducted him in his cabinet after his first victory from Hayuliang.
With his debut as an MLA in the year 1995 securing an unprecedented vote margin as first-timer, he was rewarded with a significant portfolio as the Minister of State for Finance. Since then he had never looked back. His unusual capacity to work hard and meticulously had got its due recognition when he was assigned important portfolios in different Ministries in the cabinet of as many as six Chief Ministers and he continued to rule the roost for over long two decades. Of course, he proved his mettle everywhere.
Pul was a kind of personality, who once takes up a job would carry forward it to a logical conclusion, howsoever challenging it might be. Very persuasive, well mannered and firm in his stand, he would impress upon the officers to get the work done in the larger interest of the people of the state. He had an uncanny ability to communicate and convince the National leaders, the high officials of Planning Commission, Ministry of DoNER, PMO which was instrumental in improving the degenerating state finance before his stint as finance minister. The subject of State finance was really his forte. The senior officers were often put to shame when he would get down to the nitty-gritty of finance.
The state's longest serving Finance Minister, Pul had many rare initiatives to his credit, like conversion of posts from Non-plan to Plan sector so as to secure increased assistance from Centre and also thereby preventing bad investments on salary and other expenditures.
His priority was development sector instead. He streamlined the implementation of VAT in the state and with his discreet overseeing in the transitional period saved the state a good chunk of resources. He initiated bold steps such as generating resources from within the state by levying modestly on water, electricity, housing etc which substantially contributed to the revenue-starved state. Above all, he had a rare insight in to the financial crunch of the state for which he would not often agree to dole out largesse to Government employees as populist measure at the cost of the state development despite his full knowledge that good economics and good politics do not go together. He was indeed less of a politician and more of a Statesman. And the consequence is obvious all before us.
It would be unfair if his humane and generous nature is not dwelt upon. A kind and compassionate soul, he would bring all the serious patients from Hawai, Hayulliang and Tezu area in his helicopter for treatment at RK Mission, Hospitals in Guwahati, Delhi and elsewhere at his own expenses. He had an extended residence for last 20 years exclusively for those poor people seeking treatment. Whenever one visits his residence at ESS sector, one finds scores of patients taking food along with him. More so, he had one official deputed exclusively for Hospital admission, procuring medicines and taking care of other hospital formalities. Even the hectic schedule of overseeing the departments like finance and planning does not deter him from interacting with common people coming to his residence for help. His minions and drivers who work till late hours in the night everyday were looked after with compassion and financial help for the good education and welfare of their children and other members of family. He had a genuine concern for all around him. He had a dream of streamlining governance in the state and he made a genuine effort.
With his untimely demise, a rising star above the horizon of Arunachal has lost its rightful existence. A visionary is gone; the icon of a performing politician is gone. But let's be hopeful that his exemplary courage and commitment inspire many youths of the state to finish his unfinished agenda.
May his great and noble soul rest in peace! (The contributor of the article is Associate Professor, DN Govt. College, Itanagar)
Petrol Pump owner dismisses allegation of unscrupulous activities
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: Following the allegation of tampering made by Arunachal Anti-Corruption Sena (AACS), the owner of NRL Petrol Pump (Papu Hapa) advocate Tony Pertin today dismissed it as baseless and said that it was done with ulterior motive. Addressing a press conference at Arunachal Press Club, Pertin presented reports of legal metrology department which has given clean chit to his pump.
"I obtained the documents after filing RTI. Legal metrology team visited depot after police case was registered at Naharlagun PS. They poured 5 litre petrol into fuel dispenser machine and when same amount of petrol was taken out from it, the metre gave reading of 5.01. It shows that in fact my pump was giving more petrol to the consumers. Also the seal of pump was found intact by the department official. Therefore allegation of short supply and unscrupulous activities leveled against NRL petrol is baseless and without any iota of truth," said Pertin. He also welcomed all kind of quantity and quality check anytime. "I have not done anything wrong and there is nothing to fear. I have given best quality fuel to the people of capital complex and will continue to do so. I take it as my social responsibility to ensure that public is not cheated. I appeal people of the Capital to trust us," he added.
While giving details of how Arunachal Anti-Corruption Sena (AACS) started activity against his depot, Pertin informed that whole problem started when he dismissed one Kakum Flago who was working as security guard at his pump. "We removed him from the post of security guard as he was indiscipline at work. After that one Serpi Flago, who is president of AACS and also cousin brother of Kakum Flago, visited my depot and alleged that we are indulging in wrong activities. This incident happened few months ago. He started contacting my staff on phone and also visited depot saying they want something in return. But they never clarified whether they want money or fuel. We outrightly rejected their allegation and refused to negotiate with them. On 7th May this year, the Anti-Corruption served us explaination/showcause notice warning us to respond to their allegation within 7 days failing which they threatened to launch movement seeking sealing of NRL depot. Their boys continued to bully my staff. They visited depot and asked my employees to tell owner (me) to contact member of AACS," informed Pertin. He went on to add, "When we continued to ignore their bullying tactics all of a sudden this allegation was made public. After seeing through the whole plot, I can only assume that this whole scandalous campaign against my depot has been done either with extortion motive or with revengeful purpose."
Kundan Patel, the employee of NRL clarified that pictures being circulated in social media about two electric switches being used to tamper meter reading is absolutely wrong. "One switch is for power on/off and other one is used for bulb that lights meter. Even legal metrology team which conducted check in front of member of AACS and general public did not found anything wrong with the switches. No extra chips was found as being alleged in Facebook. These switches are found in almost all the petrol depot across India and there is nothing unsual about it," he added. He also alleged that he was threatened and assaulted to make wrong statement.
Pertin also expressed extreme sadness over whole incident. "My hard earned reputation has been damaged by this baseless allegation. Also my depot is repeatedly targeted by various groups. Why I am being targeted for giving the best quality fuel," he questioned.
On being asked whether he will file defamation case against members of Arunachal Anti-Corruption Sena, Pertin said he is ready to give benefit of doubt to them. "As a fatherly figure I do not wish to punish these young boys. I genuinely believe they have been misguided and therefore have gone astray. Whenever I get chance I will try to show them good path and tell them the importance of hard work to achieve success in life," added advocate Tony Pertin.
Kalikho Pul: The headmaster’s bright eyed pupil from Walla Basti
[ Dhiraj Sinha ]
Kalikho Pul, who passed away on the 9th of August, 2016, was a unique example of how education coupled with the power of democratic forces can have transformational impacts. In the mid 80s, Pul was a student of Hawaii Middle School, Lohit, Arunachal Pradesh. He was much elder not only to me but also amongst other students of his class. During that time, it was hard to speculate that the seemingly unassuming student who would come to our house every week, play in our backyard while doing his homework in our drawing room; would one day rise to become one of the longest serving finance ministers of the state and one of the youngest Chief Ministers of independent India.
The beginning of Kalikho's life was as dramatic as his end. He was born in Walla Basti, a village close to Hawaii circle on 20th July, 1969. During those days and until the late 80s, Hawaii was geographically cut off from the rest of India for most part of the year. The only way to reach Hawaii was through trekking on foot from Hayuliang which took 2 to 4 days along the banks of Lohit, a river, cursed to roaring since eternity! There was a camp of Central Reserve Police Force along with the posts of Indian Army, permanently stationed since the Sino-Indian was of the 60s. Food was dropped using aero planes during summer when the weather was fine not only for the army but also for the civilians. Patients had to be airlifted in case of emergency, when the weather was bad, death was the only option. Stories of cloudbursts and villages being washed away were common. Given this context, it was not hard to imagine how both his parents died early, leaving him all alone.
Poverty around Hawaii, one of the least densely populated regions of Independent India was extreme. But Kalikho's family was even poorer. He spent his days looking for firewood for his aunt in the high hills around Walla basti. He ran away from him to take up a job of carpenter at District Craft Centre, Hawaii, which was a couple of miles away from Walla Basti. One day, the Headmaster of Hawaii Middle School Ram Naresh Prasad Sinha called someone for a repair work in School and Kalikho turned up. His dedication towards work and attentiveness to detail, left the Headmaster impressed and he advised him to join the night school which was being managed by him for adults. I still remember him taking a lantern and a torch at night so that he could teach a group of enthusiastic learners with an age ranging from 14 to 70!! Kalikho excelled in his lessons and soon the Headmaster felt that he could be admitted in regular school provided he left his day job of carpenter.
Sinha had a policy of offering admission to anyone who wanted to learn irrespective of age. So, there was a large crowd on Sunday mornings comprising of people ranging from 5 to 18 years who wanted to start from the 1st standard! At times, it was difficult to distinguish between parents and the wards!! After being offered admission, they would earnestly offer chickens as gifts while warning that during harsh weather, chickens were the only reliable source of food in Hawaii. Considering this, when Kalilho expressed his desire for regular admission, Sinha immediately agreed. However, there was an additional problem besides his job, he was too old for 1st standard and taking admission in 6th or 7th standard was not only risky, it was also illegal which could have jeopardized his career. Around that time, the education minister and the District Commissioner were to give a visit. Sinha, who was an English teacher and had already finished the first draft of his doctoral thesis entitled, "Parallelism between the Guide and the Mayor of Casterbridge and its nuances influences in Modern Anglo Saxon Literary Portrayals"; called Kalikho Pul at home, prepared a fine speech for him and said that he could be considered for regular school if he delivered the speech well. Kalikho's brilliant speech left the Minister impressed. At that time, Sinha put his case before him, requesting him to formulate some general policies in the state towards admission of students from Night School to regular school without the need of school leaving certificates.
A couple of months later, Kalikho joined the 6th standard at Hawaii Middle School and was given a place in the hostel where food, clothing and shelter were provided by the government. He still faced a problem- his family members were dependent on him for his earnings. He was keen to leave the school. Around that time, the Headmaster talked with the Circle Officer and arranged a job of Night Watchman for him. There was no obligation for Kalikho to do the job as there was some kind of implicit understanding with the Circle Officer.
The school Headmaster had a radical policy that every student must learn to deliver speeches in public. In that environment, Kalikho honed his eloquent style. By the time he reached the 8th standard, the Headmaster made him the General Secretary of School and he was responsible for organizing school activities. He also had the additional responsibility of procuring the hostel ration from the general store which again had to be managed from the government authorities who collected it during air dropping. There was a point of time, when the weather remained bad for months, and finally, when the plane dropped food items and kerosene tanks, Kalikho strongly put the case of a larger portion of ration for students. At one point of time, he even had a mild altercation with Sinha who calmed him down.
I was during the early phase of my school, but despite several decades having passed, my memory of Kalikho in school is still fresh.
On one occasion, Kalikho was about to lose his badminton match and he was on the verge of crying. Victory for him was closely linked to his survival. An additional aspect of his personality was that he carried an element of melancholy around his face along with strong nuances of gravity which sent a strong message of someone who has faced deep level of struggle and can be relies. Perhaps, it was this aspect of his personality which helped him rise up to ranks of student politics during college years when he was chosen the General Secretary. Unlike other student leaders, who carry a rather masochistic aura, Kalikho's personality was different- it carried an element of intellectual aura and brilliance.
In 1995, we heard about Kalikho defeating Khapriso Krung, the former education minister in elections. It was the same Krang who had received a welcome speech from Pul around 12 years back! Since then, Pul emerged as a winner in each of the elections and worked in different capacities as the Minister for Finance, Tax & Excise and Health & Family Welfare. One of his major contributions was his transformation of Hawaii from a sleepy village with barely 2 to 3 shops into a major administrative and business hub located along the last frontier of Sino-Indian border. The region around Hawaii was carved out as a separate district called Anjaw with Hawaii as its headquarters.
Meanwhile, Kalikho lost touch with his former School Headmaster who kept getting transferred from one remote village to the other as he opposed the local leaders' political activities in school. Ironically, most of those were his former students; some had become Members of Legislative Assembly and were keen to exercise their influences in domains which is best left for teachers.
In late 90s, Kalikho bumped into his former Headmaster at Arunachal Secretariat and immediately took him to his office. He soon called the education secretary and scolded him for creating troubles for someone who had played a transformational role in his life.
Despite becoming a minister at the tender age of 27, Kalikho saw several ups and downs in his career. He was considered a popular leader but also a threat by new Chief Ministers, but soon he could win their trust and get the ministerial birth. But the vagaries of Arunachal politics must have affected him. Several years later, in 2004, I initiated my research on explosive detection technology with the Department of Engineering at Cambridge University. After the central government refused to help me, I called up Kalikho who immediately agreed to provide support. Unfortunately, the government collapsed the very next day!
Around a decade later, when he became the Chief Minister, it was a great moment for us- the students of Hawaii Middle School. It is a pity that the happiness was short-lived and he had to step down following the Supreme Court verdict.
On the 9th of July, when my wife informed me of some former chief minister committing suicide, my heart sank. I was sure, it would be him. Even during school, at times, he used to become quite emotional at times. But this time, he would take such an extreme step was unimaginable.
During his formative years Kalikho used to reach the school quite early. He would be softly rebuked by his Headmaster, "Kalikho, you have come early!". The Headmaster passed away on 25th July, 2009 and 7 years and 15 days later, perhaps, in some remote corner of the cosmos, Kalikho received the last soft rebuke from his teacher, "Kalikho, you have come early again!" (The author was a schoolmate of Kalikho Pul at Hawaii Middle School)
Candle light march
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: A candle light march is being organized in solidarity of former chief minister late Kalikho Pul on August 11 from Tennis Court, IG Park to Akashdeep at 5 pm by the relatives and well wishers.
All well-wishers, relatives, close friends and students are requested to join the candle march to express solidarity with the departed leader.
Govt. announces magisterial probe into Pul's death
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: The Arunachal Pradesh Government has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the death of former Chief Minister Kalikho Pul.
"The state government has ordered an inquiry to investigate whether there is any foul play in his (Pul's) death," Chief Minister Pema Khandu told reporters here yesterday.
He said the police had been instructed to seize all available materials so that a genuine investigation process could be initiated.
Asked about the suicide note left behind by Pul as claimed by his supporters, Khandu said he had no knowledge of it but directed the police not to leave any stone unturned in the investigation process.
AAPSU appeals all to maintain peace
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: Strongly condemning the vandalism of public properties in the aftermath of the untimely demise of late former CM Kalikho Pul, the All Arunachal Pradesh Student's Union (AAPSU) President, Kamta Lapung has on Wednesday appealed to the people of the state including, well wishers of the former Chief Minister to maintain peace and not to take the law into their hands.
Damaging of public properties shall serve no purpose, even if late Pul had been alive, he would have never endorsed such act of violence, he added.
He further appealed to the state government to take stringent measures to protect the safety and security of the general public.
5 govt. employees arrested for preparing fake bill
DAPORIJO, Aug 10: Five government officials allegedly involved in preparing fake and bogus compensation bill in connection with Trans Arunachal Highway stretch from Bopi to Tai in Upper Subansiri district under Potin-Pagin (TAH) were arrested by Daporijo Police under section 465/468/471/120(B) of IPC.
The arrested persons were produced before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC).
Later, the court remanded them in police custody for 4 days.
In this connection, the SP had constituted a special investigation team comprising police officers.
"The preliminary investigation has confirmed prima- facie commission of criminal offences by the officials and "law will take its own course."
The case is being closely supervised and monitored by the SP. DIPRO
Shift proposed IMC slaughter house to another site
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: In a memorandum submitted to the Capital Complex DC on Wednesday, the PRI members of XI-Batt Ganga Zilla Segment has appealed to him to stop the construction work of an IMC slaughter house under Ministry of Food Processing, GoI, at Chimpu and shift it to another site.
The PRI members claimed that there are about 50 houses besides, schools near the proposed site of the slaughter house and about 300 houses are situated within 5 Km area of the site, which is against the prescribed norms.
'According to norms a slaughter house should not be constructed/situated within a radius of Km from human habitation and it is also necessary to mind the future rehabilitation area during the selection of site for such a project', the PRI members stated.
Cleanliness drive conducted
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: Scientist, SMS and other technical staffs of the ICAR A.P Centre Basar and KVK, West Siang took part in a day-long cleanliness drive conducted by the institute on Tuesday.
During the drive, the volunteers cleared the campus premises and roadside area from ICAR residential complex towards SE office Basar.
'Smart Kisan' M-app launched
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: 'Smart Kisan', an android based M- app for Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Anjaw has been launched by ICAR RC for Eastern Region, Patna, Director, Dr. BP Bhatt amidst the presence of ATARI, Zone-III, ICAR Director, Dr. BC Deka and Extension Education, Assam Agriculture University, Jorhat, Director, Dr. Bhattacharjee at KVK Kamrup, Guwahati on Aug 2 last.
Speaking on the occasion, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Anjaw, Dr. Manish Kanwat briefed on the features and characteristics of the technology while, Dr. BP Bhatt urged all other KVKs to develop the same type of application for their district and facilitate the farmer of their respective district.
Cleanliness drive at Mechukha
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: In keeping with the spirit of the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the people of Mechukha carried out its fourth phase of mass cleanliness drive in Mechukha town on Wednesday.
The drive was conducted under the guidance of Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mechukha with full support and participation of hundreds of volunteers from students, general public, paramilitary and army personnel and government staffs.
During the mass cleanliness drive the volunteers cleaned up various places in the entire town.
Meanwhile, lauding the volunteers for their noble gesture, ADC appealed to all to extend their support towards keeping the Mechukha town clean and green which was one of the most sought after tourism hotspot in the state.
Coordination committee formed to monitor OFC laying in Siang
PANGIN, Aug 10: Siang Deputy Commissioner Rahul Singh has formed a district coordination committee to monitor the progress of the project of laying optical fiber cable (OFC) in Siang district.
A meeting was held in this connection in the conference hall of the deputy commissioner on Wednesday attended by local administrative officers, representatives and officials of RAILTEL, BSNL,NFS, TAH, PWD, UD, Power etc.
Singh informed that all the Gram Panchayats in the country would be connected through Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) setting up a network infrastructure under the union government's Digital India Programme and Siang district was part of it.
All stakeholders should take up the issue very seriously and maintain proper co-ordination in the execution of the project, he said.
Stating that constant monitoring was essential, Singh urged to execute the works as per specification and complete it on time. DIPRO
Union seeks re-conduct of exam
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: The Libarary and Information Science Students Union of Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday has sought for rectification on Question paper-II of recently conducted examination for the post of Junior Librarian under Director Secondary Education.
The union claimed that question paper-II (Multiple choice questions) failed to cover all the papers of Library and Information Science rather it focused on single paper (Librarian Classification) out of seven important papers . The union further appealed to re-conduct examination adding that there were lots of errors even in spelling in many question paper sheets.
Relief materials to fire victim
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: All Leel Youth Association has distributed relief materials to fire victim one Hillang Tuglo an Assistant Teacher whose dwelling house was reportedly gutted down on July 30 last at Tagum Village under Sangram circle of Kurung Kumey district. Numerous properties were lost during the fire accident, the association claimed.
DC urged to submit damage assessment report soon
ITANAGAR, Aug 10: Expressing shock at the devastating fire which occurred at Norbuling village under Tuting Sub-Division of Upper Siang district on Aug 7 last, state NCP President, Gicho Kabak has in a release on Tuesday informed that he met Upper Siang DC, Remo Kamki on Tuesday and urged him to assess the loss of properties and submit the report to the government to ensure early grant of relief to the victims.
The fire had completely gutted the house of Gelling ASM, Pema Jangmo and Head Lama of Norbuling village, Ven. Dondup Palzang Lama and destroyed all movable properties.
He further said that the party has also urged the state government to take immediate steps on receipt of assessment report from the district administration.
Solung Tourney begins
YINGKIONG, Aug 10: The Solung Tourney began on a colorful note with presentation of mega folk dance at General Ground here on Wednesday.
In his inaugural address, the Upper Siang DC, Remo Kamki stated that winning and losing is part of the game and hence there should not be any incidents during the tournament. He further appealed to the players to maintain the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the game. Altogether 21 teams are participating in the tourney. (DIPRO)
Editorial
End of an era
With the death of former Chief Minister Kalikho Pul an era has ended in Arunachal politics. Despite hailing from remote Anjaw district, Pul went on to become Chief Minister of state inspiring thousands of youth with his hard working nature. His four month tenure as CM was adventurous and inspiring too. He won hearts of the people of state by extending helping hand to many needy people. Though Pul managed to win love and blessing of ordinary people but he could not win confidence of his MLA colleagues.
After Supreme Court verdict restored Congress government in Arunachal, the MLAs ditched him and elected Pema Khandu as the new Chief Minister of state. It is believed that this political betrayal deeply traumatized late Pul. He reportedly confided to his close aide about how he felt cheated by his own MLA colleagues. It’s a tragic that instead of resolving to politically fight back he decided to take his own life. At this juncture every Arunachalees are wondering what made him to take such drastic step of killing himself? He was a public figure and also a much loved one, therefore everyone has right to know everything related to his death. Government of Arunachal should properly investigate the whole matter. They should make whole investigation public so that there remains no doubt in the minds of public. As late Pul begins his journey to another world, he has left a telling message for people of Arunachal that nothing can substitute hard work in life. Despite coming from poor economic background he went on to occupy the highest post of CM due to sheer determination and hard work. Let us together mourn the death of the true son of the soil.
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Readers’ Forum
Hope shattered
Dear Editor,
The sudden demise of Kalikho Pul sir is more heartbreaking than shocking. Many of us were pointing his over enthusiastic response towards the developmental work. No one was ready to accept the fact that a CM of Arunachal could work like the way he did. Its not people's fault for doubting him because we are living in a state where we all have lost our hope on politicians as time and again we have witnessed that good politicians have never survived here. But we can not deny the fact that deep inside, we all had some kind of hope on him that unique approach can bring a change. But Alas! This hope is gone too.
In recent time our state political system has become so cheap and poisonous that it can bring death to anyone.
Now, standing saddened, all I can say is "until and unless, we the people decide to take up the matter, this game will never change. Time has come to judge a poll candidate according to his capability and dedication. We should not think about clan and tribe while voting and should not limit our roles in democracy. What will be the role of elected leaders and political parties? Who will judge, speak and fight? I know its very easy to sit on a chair and writing things like this...but seriously... think about this once. Time has come to tell the politicians that "Do not fight for the CM chair, just earn it."
One more rising Sun of Arunachal has set. His short tenure as CM will always be remembered by the people for ever. May Almighty God bless the departed soul for eternal peace.
Yours,
Anjali Siga
Rajiv Gandhi University
People-
Dear Editor,
The unfortunate and untimely demise of ex-
I am deeply pained to see the news of the unfortunate demise of Mr Pul because within
a short time he earned respect of all for his pro-
Yours,
Saikat Kumar Basu
Canada
Crusade against AFPSA
Dear Editor,
Your editorial, "Big decision" (A Times, August 10, 2016) rightly said that it was
unfair to criticize Irom Sharmila for her decision to live a normal life after giving
16 long years for the cause of people of Manipur. AFPSA is a grotesque screw in a
democratic machinery. A democratic screwdriver like mass movement is necessary to
replace this undemocratic screw. There is no reason why Sharmila remains one-
Yours,
Sujit De, Kolkata