Governor directs sealing of CMO

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: The Governor, J P Rajkhowa has directed the offices of the former Chief Minister, former Ministers and former Parliamentary Secretaries and their residential offices be sealed and that to ensure that all Government file/documents are taken into safe custody.

He gave this direction in an office memorandum, issued on Jan 26. He further directed that all official files/document lying with the former Chief Minister, former cabinet Minister, and former Parliamentary Secretaries are taken into safe custody.

All political appointments  by the Chief Minister, other ministers, Parliamentary secretaries, such as Advisers, OSDs, Special Officers or any other such employees, whose term of office is co-terminus with that the Chief Minister, concerned Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries also stand terminated, the office memorandum further read.

Wherever justified, prohibitory order under section 144 Cr.PC may be imposed in the public interest, he ordered while stating that no bandhs, road block, gheraos or such other illegal activities are to be allowed. Laws must be enforced strictly, without any discrimination and law breakers are to the booked under appropriate provisions of the law and brought to justice at the earliest, he adds.

The governor further states that there must be utmost transparency and utmost action taken against corruption.

Meanwhile, former Delhi Police Commissioner Y S Dadwal and retired IAS officer G S Patnaik have been appointed as advisors to the Arunachal Pradesh Governor after the Centre brought the state under President's rule.

 

 

President’s rule arbitrary: AAPSU

Present situation gift of Congress: BJP

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) on Wednesday termed the decision of the Centre for invoking President Rule in the state as ‘arbitrary’ and threatened launching rigorous democratic movement across the state if the order is not revoked immediately.

“We cannot accept such a ‘haste’ decision of the central government without verifying the facts and will oppose tooth and nail,” AAPSU President Kamta Lapung said in a statement.

While dismissing any breakdown of law and order in the state, Lapung claimed that staging dharna and protest rallies in the state capital did not amount to deterioration in law and order situation, which prompted the governor to recommend for promulgation of Article 356 (1) in the peaceful state.

The apex students’ body of the state also alleged Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju of engineering a conspiracy to topple the democratically elected government.

“This is a conspiracy hatched by Rijiju with the objective of installing a BJP government in the state,” Lapung alleged.

“We will go for rigorous mass democratic movement throughout the state to protest imposition of Central Rule in the state if the Centre did not revoke its decision immediately,” he added.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh has stated that whatever situations in the Arunachal Pradesh now is the gift of the Congress Party and their own creations and termed it hidden game of the AICC.

The AICC could have resolved the factional feuds within the party. In such a situation of no administration, promulgation of PR was necessitated for protection of territory, well being of the people and restoring peace and harmony, the BJP said.

Whereas, people of Arunachal Pradesh gave overwhelmingly mandate to the Congress, the party dishonoured people’s mandate and forgot their duties and responsibilities, the BJP said as it said that it had no role in the dissident activities of the Congress.

The President rule is necessitated to end the long and an unending political instability created by the ruling Congress government in the state. The Congress has completely undermined the people’s mandate by indulging factional infighting and rebellions at the cost of the state’s development and wellbeing of the people, said a  BJP statement.

The meeting presided by the State President, Tai Tagak was attended by senior leaders Tapir Gao, Tapen Siga and Dr. Tangor Tapak.

 

 

SC seeks response from Governor and MHA on President’s rule

NEW DELHI, Jan 27: The imposition of President's rule in Arunachal Pradesh today came under the scanner of the Supreme Court which sought the report of Governor Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa recommending central rule in the state, saying "it is too serious a matter".

It posted the matter for February one asking the Governor and the Ministry of Home Affairs to file responses by Friday on petitions.

The remark by a five-judge bench headed by Justice J S Khehar came when Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi raised a preliminary objection contending that the notification on promulgation of President's rule has not been challenged in the fresh plea.

The bench asked the Attorney General not to raise "technical objections" when he persisted with his plea arguing that "rules are rules" and they apply equally to all.

The bench allowed the petitioners to amend their plea by Friday.

When Additional Solicitor General Satpal Jain, appearing for the Governor, sought to maintain secrecy of the report and the recommendation for the President's rule, the bench said, "He will only mention the date of report recommending President's rule to opposite parties during the course of the day."

However, the bench for its own perusal sought in a sealed cover the report and recommendation on imposition of the President's rule.

"Unless we get the grounds for recommending the President's rule, we cannot proceed. If grounds are not same in the proclamation then it is totally a different ball game," the bench, also comprising justices Dipak Misra, M B Lokur, P C Ghose and N V Ramana, said during the hearing.

The bench was also of the view that no interim order can be obtained unless the parties see the grounds for proclamation for President's rule.

A battery of senior lawyers including Fali S Nariman, Kapil Sibal, Rajeev Dhawan and Vivek Tankha opposed the plea of governor seeking to maintain secrecy of his report and recommendation, saying that larger bench of more than five judges have already laid down the proposition on this aspect, reports PTI.

President of India yesterday signed a Proclamation under article 356(1) of the Constitution, imposing President’s Rule in relation to the State of Arunachal Pradesh and keeping the Legislative Assembly of the State in suspended animation with effect from January 26, 2016.

Taking cognisance of the constitutional breakdown that has taken place in the State of Arunachal Pradesh as reported by the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, the Union Cabinet in its meeting held on January 24 had recommend to the President of India to issue such proclamation.

In pursuance of this proclamation, all the functions of the Government of the State of Arunachal Pradesh and all the powers vested in or exercisable by the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh under the Constitution or under any law in force in that State, which have been assumed by the President by virtue of the said Proclamation, shall, subject to the superintendence, direction and control of the President, will also be exercisable by the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh.

 

 

APSCW team visits Sille-Oyan

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: A team of Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) recently visited Sille-Oyan circle to enquire about the recent alleged child molestation case at a local School there.

The Commission while inspecting the school claimed to have found no separate toilets, proper partition of classrooms, boundary walls etc. in the school thus grossly violating various provisions for establishment of a school. The Commission also noted that the  school has been running since 2011 without following any of the guidelines as required to run a private school.

After seeing the pathetic condition of the school, the Commission questioned the grant of permission to the said private school by the Education Department of the concern district.

Before granting permission to run any private school, the department must ensure that the school fulfils all the required norms, the Commission said.

The Women Commission demanded the authority to take necessary action against all those erring officers and staff who gave permission to the school overlooking the safety and security of the children.

During interaction, the Commission said, the victims have confirmed the molestation by their school owner cum principal.  The OC of Sille-Oyan PS said that the alleged accused was granted bail without taking statement from the investigating officer of the case and assured to expedite the investigation of the instant case, the APSCW release said.

The team of Commission also visited the child labour who was rescued by a local NGO and appreciated its role in rescuing a child labour.

The Commission also visited the Juvenile Observation Home, Pasighat and interacted with official and staff.

During its visit, the Commission observed that the Juvenile Home immediately require proper boundary walls and maintenance of the boys' dormitory with provision for extracurricular activities for the juveniles and also CCTV surveillance etc.

In order to facilitate quick disposal of the cases, there must be a permanent Principal Magistrate of Juvenile justice Board within the area, the Commission said.

The Commission also visited the victim of domestic violence and inspected the women jail in Pasighat and found the condition of the jail in a pathetic condition.

The team on January 23 also visited the district jail, Jully, and interacted with the female inmates.

The SP Jail Michi Paku had briefed the Commission about the jail and informed that legal aid is been provided to the inmates by the State Legal Service Authority.

Later, they visited Jeevan Jyoti Children's Home at Nirjuli and Mother Teresa's Children Home, Naharlagun.

The Commission assured the Jeevan Jyoti Children's Home to provide the support. The Children’s Home is running without any governmental support since 2006.

 

 

Meet on ever rising rate of suicide among Idu-Mishmi community

[ Karyir Riba ]

ROING, Jan 26: Concerned over the ever rising rate of suicide among the already scarcely populated Idu-Mishmi community, a two-day “Workshop on Suicide Prevention among the Idu-Mishmi Community of Arunachal Pradesh” is scheduled to be organised on the Feb 6-7 under the aegis of the Idu Mishmi Cultural and Literary Society (IMCLS), with the Samaritans Mumbai.

The organising committee is headed by Post Doctoral Fellow (UGC) RGU Dr Tarun Mene, who has done his Ph.D on suicide amongst the Idu-Mishmi community.

"From 2001-2010, the rate of suicide in the community was 51.6 per 100000 population as per studies, which is perhaps the highest amongst the indigenous community of India", informed Dr Mene.

"Suicide among the Idu-Mishmi is highly underestimated. During the same decade of 2001-2010, the official data estimated only 7 cases of suicide in Dibang Valley district, whereas, the field data reported the occurrence of at least 49 cases", he added. Assistant professor (History) Govt. College, Yachuli, Dr Rajiv Miso, and GS IMCLS Rajiv Mihu are other members of the committee while the Resource persons for the workshop will be experts from Delhi University, Assam Medical College, Mumbai Samaritans, RGU, and Directorate of Health Services, Govt. of A P, among others.

The basic objective of the workshop, other than to increase awareness about the magnitude of the problem and the availability of effective prevention strategies, is to identify key stakeholders and to allocate them with clear demarcated roles and specific responsibilities, to further help in assessing the requirement and availability of resources for any suicide prevention initiatives.

Suicide Prevention Action Plan for the community will be developed wherein, a core committee will be formed for the preparation of community specific action plans by involving all the stakeholders, and the main aim of these action plans will be to eradicate the problems of disintegration and helplessness of the society and its groups, and develop a positive attitude as one of the remedies for prevention of suicide. This will also include viabilities for setting up of Counselling centers/helpline/publishing literatures in the educational institution/gram panchayats and educating on the human resources management (Idu-Mishmi population) and values.

Priority to Research and Analysis will be given to the subject through this workshop in order to estimate the need and effectiveness of preventive measures, to search for new ways of prevention, to establish suicidal risk groups on the base of primary demographic statistics and special research data, to make conclusions and recommendations on implementation and improving suicide prevention, and to work out special target suicide reduction programmes.

The workshop will be sponsored by individual donations from the members of the community, and will be supported  by the District Administration, and by the National Health Mission, Naharlagun. Side events like routine health check-up will be conducted by the District Hospital Roing.

Career and confidential counselling will also be conducted during the programme.

Local priests(Igu), Panchayat leaders and church members will be among those who will participate in it.

 

 

Republic Day celebrated across the state

Separate judiciary from executive: Governor

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: Joining the rest of the country, Arunachal Pradesh celebrated the 67th Republic Day amid murky political situation yesterday.

Addressing the people of the state on Republic Day at IG Park here on Jan 26, Governor J P Rajkhowa called for  early completion of process for separation of judiciary from the executive.

Step must also be taken, with right earnest, to complete the process of separating the Judiciary from the Executive, the Governor said.

He further emphasized on the urgency to constitute the State ‘Lok Ayukta’ on priority. Such initiative will ensure delivery of justice, speedily and at reasonable cost to the poorest of the poor.

Speaking on law and order front, he said that certain recent happenings, as you all know, are a matter of great concern in the Capital Complex in particular. The Police, Magistracy and the Administration have to be more vigilant, proactive and innovative and enforce the law strictly by dealing with all law breakers firmly and impartially, in order to maintain the Order and public peace and ensure security for the common man, the Governor said.

The increasing trend of crimes against women and properties also need to be contained, he added.  

Speaking on number of issues, he said that to achieve the desired success in all the key sectors on a sustainable basis and free of corrupt practices, five ‘M’s – Men, Money, Machines, Materials and Methods have to be managed through Five ‘E’s - Economy, Efficiency, Effectiveness, Equity and Excellence.

He emphasised on the need for upgrading the facilities for medical investigation in all districts / sub-divisional hospitals as well setting up a Medical College in the State and strengthening of secondary and elementary education sectors.

He hoped that the literacy rate will increase from the abysmally low 65.35% which is below the national average of 73%, to the level of one of the highest in the country.

The literacy rate of women is far below the State average and to bring it at par with State average, special measures for education of the girls and women are called for, he added.

Governor also spoke about the poor road conditions in the state including the twin Capital City of Itanagar & Naharlagun as he added that rest of India is developing fast mainly because of excellent road infrastructure.

He further said promoting investment in mini, micro and large hydropower projects in the PPP mode, completion of languishing hydropower projects along with the capacity addition programme; development of Transmission, Sub-transmission and System Improvement will be accorded priority.

In order to harness the mega Hydro-power potential of the state, the impasse due to environmental, ecological and social issues, has to be addressed in a balanced manner, the Governor said.

“We have also to lay special emphasis on generation of solar energy by setting up solar city, solar village, solar park,” he added.

I have requested the Prime Minister for constituting an Expert Group to prepare a Master Plan for exploration of the minerals, proper mapping and drawing up a Master Plan for harnessing the underground resources, he informed the gathering.  

All out efforts through rehabilitation, motivation, training by the state and district administrations, NGOs, students’ bodies should continue for ridding the state of opium & drug menace, the Governor said.

He further underscored the need to protect, preserve and promote folk music, folk dances, folk drama and folk lores of different tribes and sub-tribes  and also their language / dialects, healthy traditions and customs, so that their identity is not lost.

To ensure this, we need to promote research in these fields and make documentation, he added.

The Governor while calling for Green & Clean Arunachal Pradesh said that he is pained to see the beautiful hills, majestic rivers, fountains and streams and the lush green valleys of Arunachal littered with waste and refuse, and also facing danger due to encroachment. Nature has given us everything; but what have we given back to Nature, he said as he asked all to take a pledge to protect and nourish Nature.

Later at the Raj Bhavan High Tea, the Governor and First Lady interacted with invited guests including ex-servicemen, school children and senior citizens of the state.

AALO:  West Siang Deputy Commissioner Pige Ligu unfurled the National Flag on the occasion at general ground. In his address, Ligu reminded the people of their duties and appealed them to maintain peace, unity and work as a team for all round development. He asked the youths to draw inspiration from Kriti Chakra Late Tape Yajo, and join the armed forces to serve the nation. The army in collaboration with district administration also organised a candle march from General Ground to army headquarters in memory of late Tape Yajo and other martyrs.

ANINI: Deputy Commissioner Tamune Miso, who unfurled the tri-color at general ground, appealed to heads of various departments to stay in their respective places of posting for smooth and timely implementation of all Govt. programmes and policies. He also appealed to the people of the district to maintain peace and tranquillity for rapid development. ZPM Depen Molo inaugurated the exhibition stalls put up by various departments and SHGs.

BOMDILA: The Republic Day was celebrated at district headquarters Bomdila as well as in all the 12 administrative circles of the district in a befitting manner.

At Bomdila, Deputy Commissioner AK Singh called upon the people to cooperate the administration and the government for a vibrant and progressive Arunachal.

Pormar Gadi, JE (Elect), Dr. DK Lama, DRCHO, Kardak Riba Dy. SP and social activist Niri Chongroju were awarded commendation certificates by the Deputy Commissioner which carries Rs.50,000 each under the People’s Award-- an initiative of the state government.

CHANGLANG: While celebrating Republic Day here, Deputy Commissioner Wayong Khimhun focused on various social evils that are still prevailing in the district hampering the development process.

“Addiction to opium and other psychotropic drugs, insurgency, lack of infrastructure, school drop outs etc are some of the major causes of concern plaguing the district which need to be addressed on priority” said Khimhun. In spite of all these hurdles, development has been taking place, he said while highlighting the various achievements of the district in various sectors. Later, ZPC Changlang Marina Kenglang inaugurated the exhibition stalls put up by various departments and self help groups of the district.

HAWAI: Anjaw Deputy Commissioner Nyabin Ete hoisted the tri-color amidst a huge gathering of HoDs, GBs, students, and general public at General Ground.

In his ceremonial address, Ete gave emphasis on education and warned that stern disciplinary action would be initiated against those teachers, who do not discharge duty properly.

He appreciated the hard working nature of villagers of Chaglagam circle where cardamom cultivation has become successful. He also lauded the efforts of Boarder Road authorities for keeping the road through in spite of natural calamities like landslides, mudslides etc.

KHONSA: The 67th Republic Day was celebrated in Tirap with various programmes.

At Khonsa, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi jha ceremonially unfurled the Tricolor amidst a huge gathering.

In his address, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the various achievements of the district in various sectors, including health, education, road, water supply, sports, agriculture/horticulture etc. and also various programmes and policies initiated by the state government for all round development.

He spoke about the CM’s Universal Health Scheme and the Trans -Arunachal Highway which is in various stages of construction. Jha also appealed to the people, especially the youth to come forward and avail the benefits of various schemes under various departments to augment their source of income. He said that the general law and order situation in the district has been improved remarkably for which he lauded the effort made by the district Police, Paramilitary Forces and the Army.

KOLORIANG: Deputy Commissioner (In-Charge) Yowa Tapu unfurled the National Flag amid huge gathering at Koloriang.

Highlighting on various schemes/programmes launched by the government for over all development of the district, the DC  in-charge urged the Government officers and officials to work sincerely to achieve the goal of  development. He exhorted the PRI, elite group, NGOs and public to extend full cooperation during the process of implementation of Govt schemes.

PASIGHAT, Jan 26: The Republic Day was celebrated with pomp and show at General Ground.

Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla, who unfurled the Tricolor, highlighted various achievements, particularly the initiatives of her administration for Smart City Project, Digital India Week etc. She said that special emphasis has been given to education, health, Rural Development, agriculture and road connectivity etc under various state and central government sponsored schemes.

Later, the DC distributed prizes to the achievers and ‘certificate of appreciation’ to many for their outstanding services in their respective field.

Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering, DIG LH Shanliana, SP RS Chauhan, Chief Councilor Denong Tamuk, ZPC Kaling Dai, retired IAS and APCS officers were present on the occasion.

ROING: Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Ravi Dhawan appealed to the citizens of the district to participate and contribute to the development process of the country. He was addressing the people after unfurling the national flag on the occasion of Republic Day at general ground.

“No development is possible without peace and brotherhood,” he said, and appealed to each and everyone to maintain the spirit of oneness and unity.

He called upon those who are addicted to drugs to give their bad habit and live a more meaningful life. He lauded the efforts of some society based woman NGOs, like ABK Women Wing and Enjalo Menda Women Empowerment Forum, etc in their fight for eradication drug menace.

Prizes were given to the winners of various events, including District Level CM’s Trophy on Football and Volleyball.

TEZU: Deputy Commissioner Tamiyo Tatak unfurled the National Flag at Jubilee ground on the occasion of R Day celebration.

In his address the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the various people friendly schemes/ programmes of the state government, like “National Flagship Programme” NHM, National Social Assistance, Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme, Swatch Bharat Mission, MNREGA, etc and various ongoing schemes/projects.

He informed that the National Highway from Roing to Tezu via Parsuramkund is under progress, the bridge on Lohit River at Allubari connecting to Tezu and Roing has been almost completed and is likely to be commissioned very soon.

He also appreciated the role of CALSOM and Mishmi Women Welfare Society in their fight against the social evil.

DAPORIJO: The Republic Day was celebrated amidst a large gathering of school children and public here.

Deputy Commissioner Komkar Dulom, while addressing the gathering, informed about various ongoing and upcoming developmental works in the district, like cement concrete roads, a mini secretariat, mini stadium, water supply scheme for Daporijo town, TAH in the district, double lane highway from Daporijo to Nacho by the BRO. He appealed to the public to cooperate with the authorities and not to create any problems during the implementation process.

He informed that ‘Green Dapo, Clean Dapo’ Mission to be launched soon through a tree plantation drive to beautify the Daporijo township.

SEPPA: The Republic Day was celebrated at various places of East Kameng district.

Attending celebration at District Headquarters, Seppa, Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh summarized the various socio-economic and developmental activities undertaken by different department of the district. He apprised the people about various achievements made so far in the district, especially in education, health and infrastructure fronts,.

He appreciated the people of the district for their support in speedy execution of the Trans Arunachal Highway and  sought same support and cooperation for early completion of the project.

YUPIA: Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye unfurled the national flag amidst gathering of all HoDs, administrative officers, staff, panchayat leaders, students and general public at general ground, Yupia.

The DC said that Papum Pare is on the path of peace, progress and prosperity. The construction of Trans-Highway, Hydro Projects, State Highways, Law College, National Institute of Technology, link road, roads and bridges, mini secretariat, sports stadium are in full swing.

The DC also distributed Long Lasting Insecticides Nets (LLIN) to three beneficiaries organized by the District Health Society, Papum Pare, Yupia.  

The R-Day was also celebrated at Kakoi circle with great enthusiasm. Circle Officer Tana Bapu unfurled national tricolor.

ZIRO: The National flag was unfurled by Deputy Commissioner Kanki Darang at Government High Secondary ground, Hapoli.

In his address, the DC called upon the people of Ziro Valley to reaffirm themselves to work for the development of the state and the country as a whole.

Highlighting the various developmental activities in the district, he informed that the General Hospital, Ziro has been facilitated with a new physiotherapy unit, blood bank, a new x-ray machines and a special neonatal care unit. Also to facilitate the registration under APCMUHIS scheme a registration Kiosk office has been established in the hospital. The building for a specialized eye block with an operation theatre is almost complete and will be soon operational, he informed.

On the occasion, commendation certificates were given to Gonesh Thapa, driver, deptt of WRD and Laldingliana Sailo, Marketting Inspector, Dept of Textiles and Handicraft for their hard work and sincerity.

At Dollungmukh, Circle Officer Marpe Riba hoisted the National flag on the occasion. He appealed to all the denizens to cooperate for the successful implementation of the dream projects like SLHEP and Industrial estate at Paro. DIPROs

NEW DELHI: V Abrraham, Resident Commissioner hoisted the flag in the presence of all the officers and officials of Arunachal Bhawan.

Abrraham, in his speech, stressed that no matter where we come from, which religion we belong to, we are Indians first. We must not let ourselves be divided in any form. He added that the constitution upholds the basic frame of the country and we must be grateful for that.

Republic Day was also celebrated by GHSS, Naharlagun, Zion Kids School, Senki View, Itanagar, Sanska Bharti Arunachal Pradesh, North East Homoeopathic Medial College & Hospital, North East Nursing College of Health Science, Government Higher Secondary School, Itanagar, Govt  Secondary school, Nirjuli, Balijan Administrative Circle

From Our Correspondent

RUKSIN: Along with rest of the country, the Republic Day was celebrated at Ruksin in colourful manner with participation of the local people.

Unfurling the national tricolour at General Ground, Ruksin Additional Deputy Commissioner, T Pada requested the local people to keep peace and communal harmony for development. He suggested the youths to give up bad habits suck as consumption of alcohol and narcotics and inspired them to serve the nation.

Highlighting various developmental schemes initiated by the government departments he urged the local people to take active part in the developmental processes.

He also took guard of honour by troupes of APP cops, scouts & guides and young school children.

DIRANG: Unfurling the tri-colour at Lopon Stadium amidst a mammoth gathering, Dirang Additional Deputy Commissioner Dagbom Riba presented a brief overall picture of India’s evolution since adoption of the Constitution in 1950 while also highlighting the developmental activities of various departments during 2015.

He informed that the RWD undertook new PMGSY roads from Lish to Lish Gompache and from Sapper Camp to Broksarthang via Lubrang and from Rama Camp to Changsa. The PWD took up development of infrastructure at Dirang helipad, constructed a market shed for agriculture produce goods at Dirang and constructed a girls’ hostel at Thembang, Dirang, Sangti and Senge.

Later the ADC gave away prizes to the winners of various events. All the Heads of Departments of Dirang circle, students and public in large turned up during the celebration.

 

 

Cong must apologise to people of Arunachal: Rijiju

New Delhi, Jan 27: Union minister Kiren Rijiju, who hails from Arunachal Pradesh, tonight said President's rule is imposed only in special cases but hit out at Congress saying it had imposed central rule more than 100 times in various states on "flimsy grounds".

"President rule is imposed only in special case. Congress Party had imposed PR more than 100 times on flimsy grounds, including Arunachal Pradesh in the past. Congress must apologise to the people of Arunachal Pradesh for failing to remain as united, corruption free & accountable to the people," he said in a Facebook post, a day after central rule was imposed in the border state.

The Union Minister of State for Home said Congress MLAs are not small kids who can be forced by others but it's their internal problems.

"If the Centre was in a hurry it could have intervened when the Assembly House was sealed or when Raj Bhavan was seized with ugly slaughtering of precious animal Mithuns, closing & burning of tyres at Raj Bhavan roads by Congress leaders," he said.

The imposition of President's rule came under the scanner of the Supreme Court which sought the report of Governor Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa recommending central rule, saying "it is too serious a matter". According to Rijiju, the Centre acted only when no option is left and the President is fully satisfied with the Cabinet decision.

"The more Congress tries to blame others by hiding their gross failure the more they will be exposed as they are the only party who ruled Arunachal for more then 40 years," he said.

Rijiju said people of Arunachal are no more naive to be fooled repeatedly.

"Now for the first time we have changed the Congress govt decision and taken a historic decision to oppose Citizenship to Chakma-Hajong as AP ST inside Arunachal," he said.

He also blamed Congress for blocking a proposed airport in the state.

"Since foundation stone laying in 2007, Congress governments in the Centre and State should explain why the airport project is messed up and delayed.

"But I am committed to it once State government clears all the mess,' he said. Rijiju also listed the alleged anti-Arunachal Pradeah act of Congress saying it was the party which brought AFSPA to Arunachal in 1991 but again lied that BJP brought it.

"People know who looted the public money in Arunachal Pradesh. Public knows which leaders believe in violence, booth capturing and manipulations with record 11 MLAs unopposed in the last Assembly election in Arunachal Pradesh", he said. PTI

 

 

Take all necessary measures to maintain law and order: CS

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi directed the Home Department to take all necessary measures to maintain law and order and public peace and security in the state.

The Chief Secretary who held a meeting with the Commissioners and Secretaries to discuss and review the situation and give necessary direction regarding imposition of President’s rule in the state, urged the Secretaries and Commissioners to ensure implementation and compliance of the Government order enforced. The CS also asked them to ensure Good Governance, transparency and corruption free administration.

Negi also asked the Secretaries and Commissioners to monitor the implementation of all Centrally Sponsored Schemes and projects under Annual Development Agenda.

Earlier, in the morning in a meeting, the CS had reviewed the preparation for the upcoming Film Northeast 2016 and the Statehood Day celebrations.

Dani Salu, Secretary Art and Culture gave a brief overview of the four-day Film Northeast 2016 to be held from February 17.

The Co- Director Moji Riba highighted the programme details, media plan, venue field, accommodation, etc. through power-point. Riba also informed that two of the most noted filmmakers of the Northeast Aribam Syam Sharma and Jahnu Barua have confirmed their participation.

Various activities related with the filmmaking will mark the four day extravaganza. The concluding day of the Film Northeast would also mark the beginning of the Statehood Day celebration.

The CS asked all the departments to coordinate and cooperate with each other and look into every detail of the preparation.

Among others, the Principal Secretary Finance Satya Gopal, Principal Secretary Home Dharmendra Sharma,  Sonam Chombey, Secretary IPR, N Payeng IGP,  Mige Kamki DC , ICC and a host of officials had attended the meeting. DIPRO

 

 

Carry on normal duties, in case of difficulty, contact Governor Secretariat, says Rajkhowa

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: In his first meeting after taking over all powers and functions of the state of Arunachal Pradesh on behalf of President of India, Governor J P Rajkhowa has appealed to the people to carry on the normal duties as usual and in case of any difficulty; they may refer the matter to Governor Secretariat.

He also appealed to the people for the cooperation in expediting the developmental works and advised them to maintain communal harmony.

The Governor in his first meeting  with senior officers of the State  held on Jan 26 at Raj Bhavan advised the officers to ensure that there is no law and order and security problems in the state. Laws must be enforced in letter and spirit for safeguarding the interest of the common people, he added.  

Good Governance and corruption free administration must be ensured under President Rule, as expected by the people of Arunachal Pradesh, said the Governor as he instructed the Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi to issue a circular to all the departments and offices to maintain utmost transparency in decision making and execution of various works and take firm action against corruption.

On financial matters, the Governor advised the officers to give priority on payment of salaries, allowances of the Government employees,  pensions to pensioners and the establishment expenses and underscored that the development process must not suffer, but be expedited.

The Governor assured the officers to take up any financial issues or any other subject pending with the Central Government to expedite the process of development in the state.

Stressing on security coverage for former Chief Minister and Ministers, the Governor said that nobody should have any security problem and all the members of the State Assembly will get security coverage as per entitlement. A security review will be done by the Security Standing Committee immediately, on this regard.

Putting road communication as one of the top priorities, the Governor asked the Commissioner PWD to complete the road repair works in the twin cities of Intanagar-Naharlagun and also important roads to Doimukh, Chimpu, Poma-Jotte, Nirjuli and districts and Subdivisions immediately. He also asked the Commissioners and Secretaries for furnishing replies to all the pending queries sent from Raj Bhavan on matters of public interest at the earliest.

PCCF Dr. Shashi Kumar, Principle Secretary (Home) D. Sharma, Principle Secretary Finance, Satya Gopal   Commissioner PWD, Tajom Taloh, DGP S. Nithianandam, Secretary Law, Judicial and Parliamentary Affair Onit Payang and Secretary (Tourism & Political) Dr. Joram Beda attended the meeting. (PRO, Governor)

 

 

 

Implementation of President rule is darkest day in history of state: NCP

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has termed the implementation of President’s Rule in Arunachal Pradesh as the darkest day in the history of the state and said that the government needs to be constitutionally upheld at any cost.

Addressing the media persons at the Press Club here today, NCP’s National Women’s Wing President, Dr. Fauzia Khan, who is on her maiden visit to the state, while indirectly hitting out at BJP said “It is sad that the office of the Governor in Arunachal is working as a mouthpiece of a particular party and is not acting according to constitutional lines.” She also squarely blamed Governor JP Rajkhowa for creating the current political chaos.

She said that the NCP strongly objects to the implementation of President’s Rule in the state and extends support to the Congress party. We all need to fight against such values which are against the spirit of democracy and constitution of the country, she said adding that the party will continue with its protest in the parliament.    

While speaking about issue of granting of citizenship rights to Chakma/ Hajong refugees, Dr. Khan said that while the party is not against granting citizenship rights to refugees, it strongly disapproves of granting Scheduled Tribe status to them as it clearly threatens the rights of the state’s indigenous people.

Dr. Khan, who had earlier convened a meeting of the party’s women office bearers of NCP said that the NCP led by its President Sharad Pawar has always strongly advocated for 33% reservation to women and affirmed that the party will continue to fight for its early approval in the parliament and all legislatures of the states. State NCP Vice President Nima Tsangey Saling, President NCP Gicho Kabak and other party members were also present.

 

 

RUSA DSPD inspects ongoing work at colleges

AALO, Jan 27: Rashtriya Uchhattar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) deputy state project director (DSPD) Minto Ete visited Donyi Polo Government College in Kamki and Model Degree College at  Basar, in West Siang district recently to monitor the implementation of RUSA projects there.

On Monday, Ete interacted with DPGC Principal Dr Rejir Karlo and RUSA coordinator Nyade Nomuk. He expressed satisfaction over the quality of work done by the executing agency in the construction of additional classrooms under RUSA.

He, however, lamented the lack of a proper office room for the RUSA cell in the college.

The visiting official also inspected the classrooms and other facilities in the campus, and held discussions about the extension of classrooms, administrative block, etc.

Dr Karlo emphasized the need for more faculty members and creation of infrastructure. He said there is a shortfall of about 15 to 20 faculty members in the college, saying that at present there are only 28 in the college, including those for the commerce stream.

He informed that the present administrative block, constructed under the MPLAD fund in March 2001, is a guest house.

The principal also informed that the biggest bottleneck facing the college is surface communication, adding that the V-Sat in the campus is also not functioning properly.

On Tuesday, Ete inspected the ongoing construction activities at the model degree college in Basar.

Interacting with the executing officials there, he expressed satisfaction over the quality of work, and requested the executing agency, PWD, to maintain quality.

Zilla parishad member Basar Jonya Basar urged Ete to impress upon the government for immediate release of Rs 10 crores under the central relief fund (CRF) for demarcation of a boundary and construction of boundary walls.

He said the construction activities at the academic block were going on smoothly and at good pace.

Basar meanwhile asked the PHE&WS and the power departments to ensure proper supply of water and electricity at the construction site.

 

 

Kakki FC lifts Tumpak Koyu Memorial Football Trophy

Prafulla Kaman

NARI, Jan 27: Kakki Football Club (FC) lifted the trophy of first ever ‘Tumpak Koyu Memorial Football Tournament (Inter-village)’ beating host team Nari FC 2-1 goals yesterday.

Dege Sora of Nari team scored the first goal through a penalty kick in third minutes of the first half. But, captain of Kakki team Kiyon Kakki equalized it in seven minutes of the same half (1-1).

The winning goal was scored in 37th minutes.

The champion team entered into the final defeating Korang FC in the semi final 2-1 while Nari team entered the final beating Rote FC 5-2.

The champion team was given cash reward of Rs 40,000 along with the coveted trophy while the runners up team was given Rs 25,000 with a trophy.

Geli Kakki of Kakki team was declared best Player while Henkar Koyu of Koyu team was adjudged as best Goal Keeper of the tournament. The Rote Football Club was declared best disciplined team. Ito Bomjen of Nari became the highest scorer.

Addressing the concluding function of the tournament, president of East Siang District Olympic Association, Tamat Gamoh suggested the player to build their career through games and sport activities. Stating that the state government is reserving job for talented sportspersons, he urged the players to avail the opportunity.

Upper Ramle Banggo ZPM Takir Kakki urged the players to work with discipline to achieve success in life. He requested the organizers to continue the trophy and keep alive the wisdom of late Tumpak Koyu, who was a dedicated social activist of their society.

The president of RBFA, Kaling Koyu and organizing chairman Ibbom Bomjen, who overall looked after the tournament, also spoke on the occasion.

The vice chairman of Sports Authority of Arunachal Pradesh, Gechi Doke, Nari ADC M Loyi, Nari-Seren block ZPM Kenyom Dabi and Anchal chairperson Yalom Sora, government officials, local Gaon Burahs and public leaders besides the local villagers and students witnessed the final match.

The tournament was conducted by Ramle Banggo Football Association (RBFA), which was started at Daying Ering Football Stadium, Nari town on January 15.

It was sponsored by Deputy Director of Industries, Kaling Koyu and his family in memory of their late father Tumpak Koyu, who was a prominent leader of then undivided Siang district.

Altogether 19 football teams from different villages under Nari-Koyu constituency participated in the tournament.

 

 

Social service at Monigong and Pidi

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: The West Siang District Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU) successfully conducted mass awareness-cum-social service at remote Monigong and Pidi circle under Mechukha sub-division from January 23 to 25 last.

Themed as “Kaju Ngulu Ge Mong Hem Haming Bo Pane Ju - let’s keep our land clean and green”, the students body imparted awareness to the public on importance of keeping the surrounding area clean and green.

The volunteers also cleaned up various places and schools including Govt Secondary School, Monigong and  put up bamboo dustbin in the township and suggested the shopkeepers and public to keep the town clean.

They repaired the road between Pidi village to BRTF road shortcuts which was washed away by landslide. The Union further appealed the inhabitants to maintain cleanliness in the village.

Members of civil society and Govt employees also actively took part in the social services besides school students.

 

 

Relief provided to fire victims

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: In a humanitarian gesture, the members of East Kameng Social Welfare and Cultural Organisation (EKSWCO) led by its chairman Khya Safar Pao distributed relief materials to the fire victims of Type-III colony at Seppa on Wednesday.

Four houses were reduced to ashes in a devastating fire on Tuesday night in the area. However, the cause of the fire could not be ascertained.

The victims included Fecha Lamgu and others, sources informed from Seppa.

The EKSWCO team distributed blankets, utensils and other materials to the victims. The organisation also appealed the district administration and the concerned authorities to extend immediate relief to the fire victims.

All Arunachal Pradesh Disaster Management Relief Welfare Organization (AAPDMRWO) also today visited the fire victims of Type-III Colony, Seppa and provided some relief materials like utensils, blankets, carpets, to them.

The organization strongly urged the concern authority for providing special package to the fire victims and also assessing the properties lost or damaged in the fire.

AAPDMRWO also appealed to all to provide relief assistance to the fire victims for their rehabilitation.

 

 

Org provides relief to fire victim

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: The Banderdewa Circle Youth Organization (BCYO)  today donated household materials to one Gyamar Kayung, constable APP, whose house at Doyen Colony under Banderdewa circle was burnt down on January 26 evening.  

The organization informed that the house was completely gutted down in the fire and no item could be saved by the victim. Meanwhile, the organization has appealed to the Capital Complex deputy commissioner to provide relief to the victim at the earliest.

 

 

GB passes away

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: Nabam Tagam, Gaon Bura (GB) Doimukh Market has died at his residence today due to prolonged illness.

Tagam (70), who had been suffering from illness for the last couple of years, left behind his wife, two sons and four daughters.

He was also the former president and general secretary of Doimukh Market.

Tagam’s death is a great loss for the GB institution of Doimukh circle in particular and the state as a whole, said All Doimukh Gaon Bura Welfare Association.

 

 

Social Service at Malinithan

AALO, Jan 27: A day long social service cum cleanliness drive under Clean India-Arunachal campaign was conducted to mark the National Tourism Day at Malinithan by the Tourism Department, West Siang district on Jan 25 last.

The main objective was to spread the message to keep pilgrimage and heritage sites and tourist places neat and clean.

Addressing the participants, District Tourism Officer Tate Tata called upon one and all to maintain cleanliness in tourist sites and public places.

He also advised the participants, visitors/devotees to throw litters, plastics, and waste in the designated dustbins. DIPRO

 

 

CS urged to take action against illegal tree felling

ITANAGAR, Jan 27: The Pakke Valley Youth Welfare Association (PVYWA) has written to Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi complaining about illegal deforestation under Kellang forest division. The association alleged that forest resources are being smuggled from Pakke-Kessan area to the Capital Complex via Sagalee and Seppa.

Further informing that foreign made sawn machines are being used to cut trees,  the Association  also claimed that despite repeated complaints to the circle officer and PCCF no action has been initiated. The association  requested the CS to initiate action and pass on necessary direction to the concern authorities to stop the illegal felling of trees.

 

 

DEM GHSS win opener of district level Subroto Cup

PASIGHAT, Jan 27: The district level 4th Subrato Mukherjee Football Tournament (U-17) began at IGJ Hr. Sec School playground, Pasighat today.

DDSE Obuk Panor, who kicked the tournament, advised the players to maintain true sportsman spirit and discipline throughout the tournament. He said that sports foster friendship, oneness among youths and help them stay physically fit.

DEM Hr. Sec School beat Bilat Hr. Sec School through tie braker in the opening match.

Five teams are participating in the district level tournament and the final match will be played on January 28 next.  DIPRO

 

 

What Next?

[ Dr. Joseph Kuba ]

The essence of democratic politics is that it is played out between ideologically opposed parties or personalities by setting aside petty differences in service of a greater purpose. But the satirical fact is that in a democratic setup, the opposing parties by picking on all the pros and cons, turning the pros into cons and cons into lies, however, immaterial it may be, always devotes its chief energies in trying to prove that the other party is unfit to rule and ironically both are right and sometimes succeed in materialising their effort.

Slavoj Zizek in his famous book First as Tragedy, Then as Farce remarks, “In a democracy, every citizen is effectively a king, but an elevated king in a constitutional democracy is a monarch who decides only formally, whose function is merely to sign off on measures proposed by an executive administration. This is why the problem with democratic rituals is homologous to the great problem of constitutional monarchy: how to protect the dignity of the king? How to maintain the appearance that the king effectively makes decisions, when we all know this not to be true?” No wonder, Albert Einstein remarked once ‘politics is more difficult than physics’.

It is hard to feel being a good citizen and individually responsible with the processes of a democracy when attempts are being made or is being forced to distance governance from the public at large, particularly when elevated kings, as mentioned, tries to consistently protect the façade.

In recent times, our state has been experiencing what many call a ‘political turmoil’.  A huge bulk of the common denizens still are not wary of the precise nature of the so-called turmoil, completely ignorant of what their stakes are as citizens of the state. Many of the informed public have also considered the current situation as an outcome of some juvenile-type political fracas – which time and some serious bit of diplomacy will resolve. Perhaps, it came as a jolt to many when some high-profile decision-makers from ‘far and near’ decided to take matters into their hands without consulting the local leaders/citizens and simply decided that the state is experiencing a period of serious instability constitutionally and in governance matters with a supplementary ‘law and order’ problematic  and recommended that the case may be viewed with utmost seriousness giving little chance for the defendants to come up with anything remotely representing Plan B.

In the near past, three important developments come to mind which to a large extent seemed to have scripted the fate of the current political imbroglio. First, there have been many instances of outpouring in the local media of a democratically elected government distancing itself from the common people. Whether a dissatisfied public with the incumbent government has been the main reason for this or whether the complaints have been carried out at the behest of some groups or individuals for their own personal interests is for every concerned citizens of the state to judge. But the fact is that anyone reading the local dailies published in the state will bear witness to this.

Secondly, many of us often forget that our state, in the eyes of serious policy makers, is the most geo-strategically important state as it borders countries that are constantly creating nightmares for the strategic decision-makers at all levels. Arunachal Pradesh, every informed person knows, is the flashpoint if there be any ugly armed engagement in the near future. The state also features very resolutely as a major constituent in India’s rise as a major power in the Asia-Pacific region. Securing Arunachal is the top security agenda of the government in the Centre. It came as no big surprise that Kiren Rijiju was given the State Minister for Home portfolio when he was elected as MP. It can very well be assumed that, given the place of Arunachal in the overall security superstructure of the country, the Centre does have very high stakes in the state.

In no way am I making a statement that, for the above reasons, the BJP is to be blamed for the political situation that our state is in today. Neither am I attributing the Congress government for the same when I say that there have been media reports of complaints against its performance. But examining the sequence of events that led to the political mess and subsequent recommendation for the imposition of President’s Rule in the state, it does seem that His Excellency the Governor, JP Rajkhowa, should have handled the situation in a more judicious manner.

The Governor could have at least initiated a dialogue between the two contending parties. Such an action could have given him a lot of leverage in his subsequent actions. By not doing so, a public perception has been created that he did not exercise his wisdom and constitutional propriety.  The Governor by convening the Sixth Session of the Legislative Assembly from 16 December 2015 from 14 January 2016 created the uproar which was fuelled further by his subsequent actions. No doubt, the Governor has constitutional powers to make decisions which is obligatory on the part of the government but the checks and balances to these powers seemed to have been completely ignored.

To the rejoicing of some and to the dismay of some, the political confusion has somewhat come to an unease standstill. What comes next is eagerly awaited by all. Even as Milton Friedman states, “the government solution to a problem is usually as bad as the problem”, we can only hope that in our case Friedman is proved wrong. But definitely the common people are beginning to sense that some things are just not right. The feeling of fear and insecurity is quite palpable. Unlike six months ago, seeing a lot of men in uniform, a lot of frisking, traffic jams, and standstill of the government machinery but worst of all no clear-cut promises from those in authority about what the government is going to be like in the near future, many are just wondering what to do and to whom to turn to. It is hoped that those who created the mess urgently clear it up. It is during such times of uncertainty, fear and insecurity that the good becomes bad and the bad ugly.

January  28

2011

2010

2009

2012

2013

2014

2017

2015

2016

Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector - E, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh - 791111, India

All rights reserved.

Editorial

 

 

 

Providing job is not ultimate solution

In a fresh bid to woo the youths of naxal and insurgency affected region, today union government approved a proposal for raising 17 Indian Reserve Battalions by Jammu and Kashmir and Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) affected states. A decision to this effect was taken during Cabinet meeting in New Delhi. This is not for the first time government has mooted such idea. In Arunachal too special recruitment drive has been conducted under state police for the people of Tirap, Changlang and Longding. However the question is whether such recruitment really improves the situation at ground level?

There is no denying that lure of government job takes the youth away from wrong path. However, some people term such move as indirect way of putting local people against each other and in such situation it is local citizen who always get victimized. The Government of India started introducing scheme of Indian Reserve Battalions in 1971 and so far, 153 battalions have been sanctioned to various states. Of them, 144 have been raised and one battalion in Jharkhand has been converted into Specialized Indian Reserve Battalion. Most of these IRBns has been raised from insurgency affected North Eastern states, J & K and naxal hit areas. But till now situation has not shown any concrete improvement. Apart from providing job, government of India should continue the dialogue process with armed group to find a lasting solution to various issues. Only way to resolve insurgency and naxal problem is by finding long term political solution.

 

 

 

________________________________

 

 

Readers’ Forum

 

 

 

Money minting educational institutions

Dear Editor,

The alleged suicide by three girl students in Chennai zeroes it on how leeches are sucking the blood of our future generation in the jungle of private educational raj which is mushrooming without meaningful government control. In their suicide note, they stated that they were being harassed, around three lakh had been extorted from them and more money demanded as special fees by their educational institution despite abysmal facilities. Thanks to lack of government participation, involvement and control, higher education has, practically, been hijacked from the domain of lower and lower middle class by the greedy private players. Sky rocketing tuition fees puts archaic educational infrastructural facilities to shame in the free for all loot. Now, parents are to cough up a new form dowry if they want to settle their wards in jobs that can do justice to mark sheets and aspirations of their children.

This new version of educational dowry has gone up to such a level that only those who belong to creamy layer of the society can afford to pay. Thus, the capacities of parents’ credit cards have become more important factor in our higher education system than a student’s marks in his or her merit cards. 

Education sector like health sector is gradually being exported to private money-grubbers without meaningful control and without attachment of necessary strings.

As a result, majority of our population are sidelined to the role of mere helpless spectators when it comes to educating their children. These money making educational grinders destroy the lives of many Monishas, Saranyas and Priyankas as well as their families.

Article 38 of the Indian constitution directs the State to secure a social order for the promotion of welfare of the people.

So, it would be a constitutional dereliction if our government has a half-hearted approach towards providing education to the aspirants. There should be enough government schools and colleges to give private educational institutions a run for their money. In addition, a 24x7 surveillance to arrest the practice of fleecing educational dowry from the parents of future India is a crying need. Moreover, India badly needs sufficient scholarships and enough interest-free loans for the needy to honour the pledges of her constitution.

Yours, 

Sujit De,

Kolkata

 

 

 

Animals and religion

Dear Editor,

Apropos to the letter, Animal rights and the hypocrites (AT, Jan 23)  by Mr. Lalu in response to my earlier letter relating to animal abuse published in AT (Jan 19); my sincere thanks to the author for raising the issue on the discussion platform. I appreciate the concerns and the religious sentiments kindly shared by the author; however does not accept his rationalisation that no animal abuse is involved in the so called religious practices and in the temples rearing animals. This is also not a North Indian Vs South Indian cultural clash. India is one of the largest, most complex, heterogeneous, extremely ethnically diverse nations and the largest democracy of the world. The beauty of the nation is its great unity in diversity; where people representing various ethnicities share diverse religious practices, customs, creeds, cultures and are allowed to participate in different socio-religious and socio-economic practices as part of their constitutional rights. All such practices are appreciated and respected and no one is stepping forward to curb these and restrict someone’s democratic rights and privileges.

However, just like the sports of bull fighting in Spain and Mexico that is extremely socio-culturally popular in these countries; and are certainly an iconic cultural identifier for these countries; or the several centuries old custom of whale meat consumption practices of Japan, Iceland, Norway, Greenland; or the indiscriminate shooting of endangered Houbara bustard birds by rich Gulf country, hunting parties in Baluchistan province of Pakistan in exchange for petro dollars are highly condemned across the globe; so is outright animal abuses in India irrespective of caste, creed, culture, religion or geographical locations. Bull fights and bull racing are as highly condemnable as is the practise of raising endangered wildlife species in temple complexes of India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and the Indo-China.

The use of endangered wildlife in the circus, the buying and selling of domesticated elephants in the Sonepur animal fare in North India, wildlife trafficking along international borders across the subcontinent have been already banned. People initially were against such bans but they realized why this is important. Religious sacrifices of animals, abuse of animals as beast of burdens, buying and selling of endangered wild meat or consuming wild meat are equally condemnable. However, consumption of wild meat has a different sad anthropogenic crisis behind it as is the case of perpetual poverty, backwardness, lack of economic opportunities and social awareness, food shortages and lack of availability of commercial animal husbandry and livestock management practices. Several species of animals are exploited in the medical and pharmaceutical industries, fur and leather industries and related anthropogenic needs and are being highly debated across the globe and are being actively investigated and questioned.

Whether an individual should be a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian is also a question of constitutional right and no one can interfere with that. As long as the meat, milk, eggs consumed do not come from indigenous and endangered wildlife sources hampering biodiversity and the ecosystems; or is endangering any species or pushing them towards extinction, harvested following national/international protocols, one has the right to consume animal products of his/her choice and protected under the constitution. This cannot be equated to the practise of questionable animal abuses. The rights of any religious practice for any communities are not restrained if the religious sacrifices and indiscriminate abuse of defenseless animals are removed from them by the highest court and the laws of the nation. The fight to death by gladiators among themselves or against ferocious wild animals in ancient Rome was a popular cultural sport of that time or the ancient Mayans of Mesoamerica sacrificed huge number of animals and prisoners at their alters or the burning of the helpless Indian women on the funeral pyres of their husbands in the subcontinent were all socio-religious customs too with respect to that period, were these acceptable practices in the name of society, culture, religion even in those periods? Should they have been allowed to be practiced in the name of religion, culture and for entertainment as these were century old customs and would hurt the sentiments of some section? Animal abuse is a fact that we have to accept and it is time they are banned across the globe including unacceptable religious practices of torturing and abusing animals suggesting them as traditions or as age old religious practices or religious rights.  The philosophy to adhere is that your joys should not be the cause of pain for another living organism.

Yours,

Saikat Kumar Basu

Lethbridge AB Canada

 

 

 

Dates changed without intimation

Dear Editor,

Trough your esteemed daily, we would like to draw the attention of common public and other concerned towards the deeds of Department of Secondary Education.

The department advertised the post of PGT and TGT which was published on 19 the December 2015 so I went to collect application form on 21st Dec. But the department told me that form will be issued from 23rd Dec as I had some work, I left for Guwhati and when I went back to Directorate Office on 19 Jan 2016. I was told that last date of submission of form was 18th Jan and I am already late but last date of submission was 31st Jan 2016 as per advertisement.

Later, I learnt that the department did not give any official notice regarding the change of submission date in any local newspaper.

I have also learnt that like me, there are many who are have not applied for the post yet thinking that last date submission is 31st Jan 2016. Not only this, candidate of out-posts and district have posted the application only on 13-14 Jan and it is impossible to reach on 18th Jan.

I have also learnt that many candidates who have gone to collect application form on 18th Jan, suddenly learnt that that day was last day of submission of application form. somehow they managed treasury challan on the same day but forgot to attach either mark sheet or certificate of B.Ed or B.A/B.Sc or M.A/M.Sc, many forgot to write the name of post on the application form while applying for the post.  All these mistakes of candidates are because of concerned department who changed the last date of submission of application without any notice.

Usually, Departments extend the date of submission of job application form on the request of candidates but here it is just opposite, that too reason unknown to anyone.  And if any changes are made, these are notified in leading local newspaper.

Government job is yearly affair in our state; in this process many of the candidates cross their upper age limit.

So I request to the concerned department to please kindly extend the last date of submission of application form to original date i.e 31st Jan or else candidates are preparing to go to court.

Yours,

Tajak Yapa

Itanagar