No racial angle to Manipuri student’s death: Police

Monday, 30 April 2012

Bangalore, April 30 2012, ( DHNS): The Bangalore Rural police on Monday ruled out racial angle in the mysterious death of Manipuri student Richard Loitam.

Addressing a press conference, Bangalore Rural Superintendent of Police, D Prakash, said the police were yet to arrive at a conclusion as to  whether it was a murder or an accident.

The post mortem and histo-pathological reports of the victim will give vital leads, he said.According to the provisional post mortem report, Loitam died of brain haemorrhage. The final post mortem report is awaited.

The police have also sent the bowel contents to histo-pathological test, that would conclusively decide the time of the death.

Loitam, a first year BE (Arch) student of Acharya NRV School of Architecture, Soladevanahalli, was found dead in his hostel room on April 18. He hailed from Imphal in Manipur.

Soladevanahalli Police have registered a case of unnatural death, based on a complaint by Sudhakar, a hostel staffer.

According to the police, Loitam was involved in an accident on the night of April 15 when he was riding his friend Vishal Banerjee’s two-wheeler. He sustained injuries on his face and head for which he was treated at a hospital.

Following the accident, Banerjee picked up a quarrel with Loitam on the night of April 17 and a brawl ensued between the two. Syed Afzal Ali, a senior MBA student, who tried to intervene, allegedly punched Loitam in his face three-four times. Other students pacified the three and administered first aid to Loitam. After returning to his room, Loitam told his roommates that he would not attend the classes for a week.  On April 18, his roommate Sourabh, noticed Loitam bleeding from his nose and mouth.He immediately alerted the hostel staff. Later, Loitam was declared dead.

Prakash said that the two students, who had a scuffle with Loitam on the night of April 17, had been suspended from the hostel.

They have been directed not to leave the City without police permission.

Ashoka promises action

Home Minister R Ashoka said that the police had interrogated Banerjee and Ali. The police are proceeding with caution as the future of the two students is at stake. “Their future will be in jeopardy if we arrest them,” he said.

He appealed to the student community to remain calm as the police are conducting a detailed inquiry into the incident. "We have handed over the case to the SP of the division. If any foul play is found, the culprits will be nabbed," he said.

When questioned about the criticism that the Karnataka police had been receiving for being slow in acting against the culprits, Ashoka said the post mortem reports were not generated overnight and it would take time.

BJP team meets minister

Representatives of the BJP North East India Sampark Cell and Manipuri Meitei Association met Ashoka in the City on Monday and sought justice for Loitam.

Convenor of the Cell, Sunil Deodhar, told reporters that Ashoka assured them that action would be taken based on the Forensic Science Laboratory report expected in the next seven days.

He said the Home Minister assured them that the case would be transferred to CID if Loitam’s family members wanted further investigation.

Deodhar too rejected the discrimination angle behind the death.

Acharya NRV School of Architecture and Acharya Institutes said that the institution was extending all possible cooperation to the investigating officers.

A statement from the management said: “The police have already conducted several rounds of investigations and interrogated several students, faculty and the hostel authorities. The institute has been constantly supporting the probe to ascertain the exact reasons which led to the death of Loitam.”

A committee of the faculty and management has been formed to enable further investigation and any inputs received so far will be communicated to the investigating authorities, the statement said.

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M’laya CM on 'discrimination' against NE students

NEW DELHI, April 30 (Agencies): Chief minister of Meghalaya Mukul Sangma has demanded a more thorough investigation, "stringent follow-up", integration of the nation and finally, fresh legislation to deal with "instances of discrimination and cases of atrocities" against students of the northeast. He said on Monday that he intends to use the case involving his niece, Dana S Sangma, 23, who committed suicide after she was allegedly humiliated by the staff of Amity University, where she was student, to address the larger issues pertaining to the treatment of students from the northeastern states.

Sagma demanded a law that will act as a "deterrent" for all those with "limited knowledge of the huge diversity of the nation." "I have already written to the HRD minister and will be taking up the same issue with other chief ministers," he said. "The present situation demands a larger engagement of all the stakeholders or putting in place a system that will deter the tendency of discrimination and atrocities in institutions/universities by insensitive administration," says his statement. Dana Sangma had been hauled up by an invigilator for having a switched-on mobile phone in her pocket during an exam.

Sangma argues that his family chose to not seek exemption from post-mortem because officials from Meghalaya house, sent by Sangma, found "some indication that was obvious" that there was more to the suicide story. Sangma says he made enquiries and found that his niece was "sitting in the first row in a small examination hall with two invigilators" - implying that cheating would have been difficult in those conditions -- and added that her phone was confiscated by the authorities.

Sangma also insisted that his interest in the welfare of students from the northeast is not a sudden one brought on by his niece's death. He says he's been involved with student politics for long and would have reacted the same way "if it had been any other student from [his] state." "The issue of safety, security and well-being of the students emerging time and again, which is relevant particularly in the case of students from northeast who also follow a culture which others in this part of the country are less familiar with is a matter of concern," says his statement. "There should be complete integration," he says, such that no group of people "have the scope to feel ostracized."

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Jessami-Meluri impasse

IMPHAL, April 30: Talks were held on Monday between authorities of Phek district of Nagaland and Ukhrul district of Manipur to bring a long lasting solution to the frequent clash and tensions erupted between the villagers of Jessami and Meluri.

The talks, which began at 10 am, were held at Matikhru village in Phek district where ADC, Meluri, village chairman, Citichu and secretary represented the Nagaland side, and Dhananjoy, ADC, Jessami, SDPO, Officer-in-charge, Jessami, M Joel, chairman, Jessami Village Council and Akhwe, secretary, Jessami Village Council represented on the Manipur side.

The two sides agreed that noboey would be allowed to enter the village of Kadzumbudah with deadly weapons to work there. The meeting also decided to hold another round of meeting between Tangkhul Naga Long and Potchuri People’s Forum on May 3 on the strained relations of the two border villages.

At the same time, the Jessami Village Council also submitted a report on the damages caused by Meluri villagers yesterday to the police during the meeting.

As of now, the border is relatively calm after the meeting, M Joel, chairman, Jessami Village Council said.

Notably, prior to the Monday’s talks, 144 CRPC had been imposed in and around Tebumomelu village of Jesami since April 21 following unrelenting tense situation in the villages of Jessami and Meluri. (IFP)

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Missing Don Bosco student ‘released’ at Chandel Bazar

IMPHAL, April 30: Amidst public indignation over his disappearance, Takhellambam Rahul was this afternoon found loitering around Chandel Bazar around 2:30pm.

Rahul had gone missing on April 21 after he left the school campus for the school boarding. The concerned JAC had called for 42-hour general strike demanding his safe release.

Speaking to IFP the Chandel SP E Priyokumar said, the boy is presently under his custody.

He said, family members and school authorities have already arrived at the police station.

Elaborating on the development of the case, the SP also told IFP that the boy was found by some classmates from the area and later left him with one local singer identified as Gulliver, 43 who is from the Chandel Bazar area.

Soon after Gulliver informed the Chandel police about the missing boy being with him, the SP himself went at around 4:10pm and picked up the boy, the police officer said.

The boy, however was found in a traumatised condition and looked drugged, he added.

The boy who looked weak and dizzy was not in a position to answer to the queries of the police at the moment, he informed.

It could not be ascertained whether the boy was released by his captors following public pressure or he escaped on his own.

However the boy told the police that he was taken along by an unidentified individual and was not properly fed, the police officer said.

Meanwhile, SDPO Chandel took the boy along in a police vehicle to ascertain the place where he was held captive, however due to heavy rain, the team could not reach the spot, he also said.

The Imphal East SDPO, RK Khomdon who had gone to fetch Rahul reached the Chandel SP office at around 8 pm.

Talking to IFP SDPO Khomdon said, it would take about 2 hours to reach Imphal with the boy.  After reaching Imphal, the boy would be taken for a medical check-up at the JNIMS, he added.

The team led by the IE SDPO and including the boy, his family members and school authorities is likely to reach Imphal late after midnight. (IFP)

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UGs surrender before CM with their weapons

Surrenderee UG cadre deposit arms to Chief Minister Ibobi
and Home Minister Gaikhangam.

IMPHAL, April 30: In what could be termed as one of the major surrender programmes of the year, 103 underground activists belonging to several militant outfits operating in the state and its neighbouring areas surrendered before the state Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh today during a ceremony organized by the HQ IGAR (S) at Mantripukhri.

The militants who surrendered unconditionally alongwith their weapons include 22 cadres of the UNLF, 20 of PULF, 9 of KYKL, 14 of PREPAK, 8 of KNLF, 10 of KCP, 9 of PLA, 4 of UNPC, 2 of NSCN (IM), 1 each of KSCN (K), UPPK and KRPA and 2 KRF.

They also surrendered nine AK rifles, one M-16 rifle, one M-21, three Lathode, one 7.62mm rifle, 25 9mm CMG, four 303 Rif/Bolt Action rifle, 47 numbers of 9mm pistols, 10 7.65mm Pistols and two numbers of 7.62 pistols.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Minister said peace and freedom from crime and terrorism are catalysts for progress and development.

Further congratulating the surenderees, he said the keenness of these youths make it amply clear that the path to violence is chosen more out of compulsion than a choice.

It hardly needs to be emphazized that the younger generation has been disappointed due to lack of job opportunities and other avenues. It is extremely unfortunate to see that a large number of our yough people have felt compelled to take to arms while society needed them as the builders of the nation.

However there are several areas in the country where the youth is disillusioned and needs to embrace by society, he continued.

It is not only in Manipur that we see such a scenario. We all know what is happening in so called Naxal affected areas. Naxalites have posed a serious challenge to law and order machinery, he continued.

“While citing this example should be no consolation for Manipur, we do see a broad common trend in all such armed movements. All these movements are mainly sustained by youths. Broadly all these movements derive their justification from poverty and backwardness. It is ironical that a country which is known for its Gandhian and Buddhist traditions is increasingly beset by prolonged violent movements” the state Chief Minister continued.

While expressing his surprise over the lack of urge of dialogue on the part of the many outfits, the Chief Minister informed that several armed groups have been in peace dialogue with the Government, while many of them still choose to remain silent.

“As I have emphasized time and again there is a space for every dissenting voice in this country. Peaceful methods like elections are primarily meant for giving say to people's aspirations” he continued.

“But a section of people perhaps does not believe in the efficacy of these democratic and peaceful means. I do not agree with such people” he added.

“Manipur has a huge social wealth in terms of its population of younger age-group having tremendous potential. But unfortunately we have not been able to harness it” the CM lamented.

He ended by congratulating the Assam Rifles for their successful act of bringing the youths to the mainstream.

The home coming ceremony was also attended by Home Minister Gaikhangam,Chief Secretary DS Poonia, DGP Ratnakar Baral, IGAR (S) Maj Gen UK Gurung.(IFP)

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NSCN (K) faction not to deposit arms

Sunday, 29 April 2012

NEW DELHI, Apr 29: A day after signing ceasefire with the Government of India, N Kitovi Zhimomi general secretary of the GPRN/NSCN said his cadres would abide by the ceasefire ground rules, but would not deposit arms before final negotiations/agreements.

The ceasefire agreement was signed in New Delhi, with a 6 member delegation of the GPRN/NSCN with the Joint Secretary of Home Shambu Singh, who said this act on the part of the New Delhi is recognition of the said new faction of the NSCN (khaplang) which was reported to have split in June 2011.

The Joint Secretary also reported that the ceasefire agreement signed in 2003 with the NSCN (Khaplang) which is expiring, is in the process of renewal.

The ceasefire is effective from April 28, 2012 for a period of one year.

Speaking about the Nagas’ movement for rights and self determination, which is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia, the Naga leader stated that the Government of India has failed to solve the problem,  “even with military might”.

While defending that the Nagas’ arms struggle is but a retaliation against the State, Kitovi confided that arms do not bring result. He said “the GPRN – NSCN is prepared and convinced to resolve the Naga problem through democratic process, we are ready to sit across the table with GoI”.

According to the General Secretary,  the Prime Minister’s level will be the last stage of the talks and that the group is open to the appointment of interlocutor by the GoI, but maintained that it would be a “separate talk ” outside of/from NSCN (IM).

The ceasefire agreement being the beginning of a process of peace talk, Kitovi Zhimomi explained that charter of demands and negotiating points would be  formulated once the GoI invited them to begin the talk process.

He affirmed that ‘sovereignty’ would not be compromised, and that the outcome of the process of the talks should be for the people, which the General Secretary informed that all section of the Naga people would be taken into confidence.


“We will list our demands and negotiation points once we begin the talks,” said Kitovi, who is confident that the process would begin soon.

If a situation arises for comprise on sovereignty, “to take up arms or other alternative”  would be worked out in consultation with the people, informed the Naga leader.

Zhimomi said, “we have invited the UNC and tribe-wise consultations would be held”.
He added “we have no objection to an alternative arrangement”. On being asked about an opinion on creation of “supra state” the leader said “ that is IM’s agenda”.


As for the yardstick of the talks, the Naga leader said, “I am not sure whether it will be on similar ground as in the case of NSCN - IM”.

On the question of the key demand of the GPRN/NSCN, he said, “we will appraise the GoI for one administrative umbrella for all the Nagas”.

On the question of the Myanmar Nagas, the leader said “Myanmar is out of India’s hand”.

Over factional rivalries and reconciliation, he said “we never opposed the IM”.


The GPRN – NSCN leader accused NSCN (K) for killings amongst the Nagas. “It was NSCN-Khaplang who walked out of the FNR effort”, said Kitovi.

The Kitovi-Khole led GPRN-NSCN faction emerged in early June last year when Chairman of NSCN-K, SS Khaplang, was impeached and expelled for his alleged dictatorial leadership during a meeting at the Khehoi designated camp near Dimapur, under Kitovi Zhimomi. Khole, the commander in chief became its Chairman and Khehoi was announced its Publish Postdesignated camp headquarters.

The remaining group under Kughalu Mulatonu and Wangtin joined the NCSN (Khaplang) and has reportedly signed ceasefire with Myanmar Government in Sagaing province in April this year.

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Indigenous food carnival ends amidst applause

IMPHAL, April 29: The 10-day International Chinjak Festival, the third in a series, concluded this evening in a well attended function presided by the commissioner tourism, KK Chhettri, at the Iboyaima Shumang Lila Shanglen, Konung Lampak.

The function was marked by distribution of awards including to the most popular stalls. The venue was thronged by the largest crowd in the 10 days of the festival and was a mix people of all ages.

According to the man behind the show, Athouba, the total sale as of yesterday was a little over Rs. 9 lakhs and estimated that the figure would have touched Rs. 10 lakhs by the end of the day today.

This indicated an appreciable rise from Rs. 8 lakhs last year and close to Rs. 7 lakhs in the first edition of the festival two years ago.

In all more than 30,000 visitors were recorded at the entry ticket counter as of yesterday.

The highest sale was recorded by the Tibetan stall which sold just two simple items of Thukpa (noodle soup) and Mono (dumplings). The stall transacted nearly to Rs. 90,000 till yesterday, as per the coupons exchanged, and at the end of the day would have touched Rs. 1 lakh, Athouba said.

Of the foreign stalls, Singapore’s shark fin soup came close to the Tibetan thukpa and momo. Hong Kong pork and the Thailand stalls followed, with Korea and Laos trailing close behind.

Local stalls also did brisk businesses, and the Phormon Phola stall was amongst the most popular. The boiled pork sold at the Keishamthong stall too did good business, he said.

It may be noted that the Chinjak festival, an annual event introduced by a group of enterprising young people, is a celebration of indigenous foods of the Manipur. Entries from South East and East Asia are meant as a complement to the local flavours.

Its stated objective is to promote indigenous culinary cultures of Manipur and the Northeast.

Despite some understandable hiccups along the way, the festival was met with deep all round appreciation from food lovers of Imphal.

Speaking at the function, KK Chhettri said the Chinjak Festival was a commendable effort, and he would try and make it a feature of the Government’s tourism initiative of the state.

He said exotic local food has always been a major attraction for tourists everywhere in the world, and Manipur does not lack either in variety or quality to present its indigenous cuisines as a rich offering for tourists who visit the state.

He congratulated the organisers and wished them success in organising much bigger editions of the festival in the future. (IFP)

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Manipur MP moves bill to protect state territory

New Delhi: Inner Manipur MP Thokchom Meinya Singh on Saturday moved a Private Member Bill in Lok Sabha calling for protection and preservation of the state's territorial integrity. He proposed insertion of a new Article - 371 CA - in the Constitution as a special provision for Manipur. The bill said that Article 3 of the Constitution of India shall not apply to the state of Manipur - meaning the Centre's power and authority to change the boundary of any state of the Union under Article 3 shall not apply in the case of Manipur. According to the MP, the new Article envisages complete protection and preservation of the geographical area of Manipur as it existed at the time of its merger with the Indian Union in 1949.

An amendment in article 3 to protect Manipur's boundary has been a longstanding demand of Manipuris who fear that the Centre might sacrifice the state's territory while negotiating with Naga rebels. Meinya's move came at a time when the Centre is planning to finalize a peace deal with NSCN (IM), which is demanding integration of all Naga-inhabited areas of the northeast under one administrative roof. Manipur has been opposing any move to slice its territory while trying to bargain for a solution with the militants.

During the summer of 2010, the Manipur government had barred NSCN (IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah to visit his native Somdal village in Ukhrul district of the state despite getting a clearance from the Union home ministry. Manipur government had argued that Muivah's visit will disturb peace in the state.

In June 2001, Manipur erupted in anger when the Centre tried to extend the ceasefire with NSCN (IM) beyond Nagaland. Around 18 protestors were killed in police firing when agitators burnt down the state assembly building in protest against the Centre's move. The government had to make a U-turn and limit the ceasefire within Nagaland to tame the violent protests.

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Manipur Assam Rifles arrests four United Peoples' Democratic Front cadres with arms

IMPHAL: Assam Rifles arrested four cadres of the United Peoples' Democratic Front (UPDF) from Manabum area of Changlang district in Manipur on Saturday.

Two US-made 7.65 mm pistols, one Chinese-made .22 mm pistol and a huge cache of ammunition were recovered from them, sources said on Sunday.

The UPDF cadres were arrested from Maitri village, which is under Diyun police station.

The arrested cadres had taken forcefully taken shelter a Chakma widow's house in Maitri village under Diyun police station to serve extortion notices to local traders.

The forces also recovered two Nokia mobile sets, one Sony Ericson mobile, one Samsung mobile and a combat dress from the widow's house, sources informed.

The cadres were identified as Lamlai Chowai, Dipankan Chakma, Kina Marak and Arun Chakma, who were all between the age group of 19 to 25.

Three of them are from Moduk Nala area and the fourth, Chowai is from Wingsing Namto village under Namsai police station, sources added.

The UPDF, believed to have strong link with Ulfa and NSCN (K), has been involved in extortions, kidnappings and other illegal activities in Namsai and adjoining areas. (Courtesy: TOI)

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Protests over Manipur boy's death in Bangalore college

New Delhi/Bangalore(IBN): The death of a 19-year-old Manipuri boy under suspicious circumstances in his college hostel in Bangalore has sparked protests demanding justice for the student with his friends and family alleging that that he suffered fatal injuries in an assault by his seniors.
In Delhi, Richard Loitam's family and friends assembled at Jantar Mantar, seeking justice for the architecture student. Richard died in a Banglaore college hostel after a brawl over watching an IPL match on television. He apparently suffered a cerebral haemorrhage after being punched in the head by a fellow hostelmate. The family has alleged negligence by the institute and delay in medical help for their son. Forensic reports are still awaited in the case.
Loitam, a second semester student of the Acharya NRV School of Architecture in Bangalore North, was found dead on his hostel bed on the afternoon of April 18.
Disappointed with police's handling of the case, students and activists staged protests in Jantar Mantar in Delhi and in Town Hall in Bangalore.
While the police have described Loitam's death as the result of a two-wheeler accident he had met with two days earlier, friends of the victim insist that he died due to injuries he suffered on being severely assaulted by seniors at college on April 17.
According to the report filed with the Madanayakanahalli police by the hostel warden S Sudhakar, Loitam met with an accident on April 16 and was subsequently treated at Sapthagiri Hospital.
On the night of April 17, he reportedly quarrelled with his hostel mate Vishal Banerjee over watching an IPL match. Another student, Sayed Afzal Ali, intervened and hit Loitam on the face and head. Following the altercation, Loitam returned to his room and was found dead the next day.
However, with the postmortem report being inconclusive, police are looking for more leads. They said they are now waiting for the Forensic Science Laboratory report, which may take a month for completion.
But Loitam's friends and family are not convinced and questioned why police haven't made any headway even eleven days after the incident.
"The post mortem shows it is a homicide or by physical assault. So I want that the case be converted into homicide case. We demand justice and the culprit should be punished," Loitam's mother said in Imphal.
"They have not taken any action. Even the Karnataka government remains silent....I just want to appeal to every one that we want justice. Let's punish the culprits and arrest them and let's bring justice as fast as possible," Loitam's cousin Alshi Sharma said in Delhi.
Monika Khangembam, a protester in Bangalore, and others have been building up an online campaign to demand justice for Loitam. In less than 12 hours after it was set up, the Facebook group already had 5,000 members.
Pointing fingers at the college authorities, a friend of Loitam said it was not a case of drug abuse as made out to be.
"I have a picture and that's the evidence how negligent the college authorities have been. Looking at the picture, one can say it was not because of drug abuse? He had an accident on April 15. But it was a minor one and after the first aid he was discharged from hospital," another protester said.
"No one is looking into it. We want the police to look into the evidence, investigate the matter and take necessary action quickly," said the protester.
"It's been almost 11 days but no one has been taken into custody," said another protester.
The Peoples' Solidarity Concern, Bangalore, students from northeastern India and various other NGOs demanded police immeditaley arrest senior students who allegedly beat up Loitam leading to his death.

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Expansion expected today, Ibobi’s list pitted against Gaikhangam’s

Friday, 27 April 2012

IMPHAL, April 27: The much expected expansion of the 46-day old Okram Ibobi Singh ministry may likely be held tomorrow evening, according to informed sources here.


The sources however said, the second expansion depends on AICC Manipur in charge Luzinho Falerio returning to New Delhi from his home state Goa, as the approved list of ministers would be marked to him. He might fly in to New Delhi in the morning, the sources add.


It may be recalled here that, the Congress Core Committee and General Secretary Luzinho Falerio had already submitted their recommendations to the AICC President along with the lists proposed by the state Chief Minister and the state PCC chief and Home Minister Gaikhangam.


The sources further said, the approved list might be faxed to the Chief Minister tomorrow early morning, instead of the General Secretary coming to Imphal along with the list approved by the party President.


Although it is not yet confirmed, names doing the rounds include Moirangthem Oken of Heirok in Thoubal district, Govindas Konthoujam of Bishnupur, AK Mirabai of Patsoi on woman quota, Abdul Nashir of Lilong on minority quota, Francis Ngajokpa or Victor Keishing on Naga quota, Ngamthang Haokip or Manga Vaiphei on Kuki quota, I Hemochandra or Dr Khumujam Ratan from Imphal West and Y Erabot or Dr Ng Bijoy from Imphal East.

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Khaplang faction fails to ink ceasefire with Govt of India

VISION COMMUNICATIONS

NEW DELHI, April 27 : The ceasefire between the Govt of India and NSCN (Khaplang) was not extended today on account of NSCN(Khaplang) faction having gone ahead and signed a ceasefire on April 12 with the Myanmar government keeping India in the dark.

The Government of India today asked the Ceasefire Supervisory Board Supervisor Mr Lincoln and his colleagues to clarify “why they have signed another ceasefire agreement with the Government of Myanmar without taking the Government of India into confidence. How can the Government of India sign any agreement with the citizens of another country.”

The CFSB Supervisor is believed to have agreed to clarify their stand after talking to their collective leadership as soon as possible. The ceasefire expires on 28th April. If the Khaplang faction fails to clarify by 28th night, the ceasefire will be declared null and void.

On the other hand, the NSCN-Khole faction has signed a ceasefire agreement with the Government of India and expressed satisfaction over the development. The Khole faction representative Kilonser C Singson said that “we are willing to start peace dialogue with the Government of India. We have already explained and now hope that we will get an invitation soon for formal talks.”

The Government of India was represented by the Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Mr Shambhu Singh and other officials while the Khaplang faction was represented by the CSB Supervisor Lincoln, member H K Sema, and three other members. The Khole faction was represented by the Kilonser C Singson and four other members.

The present ceasefire between the Govt of India and NSCN(K) will lapse on Saturday, the 28th of  April. This logjam means that from 28th of April onward there will be no ceasefire between Govt of India and NSCN(K). This might lead to starting of operations against the outfit.

In the meantime, a five-member team from the NSCN(K)  led by Ceasefire Supervisory Board (CFSB) supervisor, Mr Lincoln, is presently in New Delhi for a meeting with officials of Ministry of Home Affairs led by Joint Secretary (NE) Mr Shambhu Singh today at 12 pm  at Hotel Ashoka.

Sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs said that the representatives of NSCN(K) are going to be grilled on how they went ahead and signed the ceasefire with Myanmar, since signing with Myanmar means that the group is a Myanmarese outfit. “So why should the govt of India talk?” the official asked.

NSCN(K)’s leader Y. Wanting Naga had signed the ceasefire on behalf of the outfit. In lieu, NSCN (K) has been allowed to open a sub office at Hkampi in Myanmar and move around freely.

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‘India lacks strategic vision in Myanmar’

IMPHAL, April 27: India lacks a strategic vision of a future Asia-Pacific especially in the case of Myanmar that can inform its policies and actions, according to Prof Baladas Ghosal, Visiting Professor at Centre for Ploicy Research at New Delhi.

This was stated by Prof Baladas while delivering the keynote address at the National Seminar on “India-Myanmar-China Relations” organized by the Centre for Myanmar Studies, MU.

The workshop was inaugurated today at the Court Room of Manipur University by Vice Chancellor of Manipur Univefsity Prof HNK Sharma.

India’s change in the attitude particularly either perform 91 or even the support of the democracy movement was not influence by any ideological orientation because basically it a kind ofnew approach. This Approach is not a positive approach.      

Prof Ghosal sai, ‘Manipur or Imphal should have been the center to establish a Myanmar studies program not today but in the 50s, it should been the eyes and ears for India but what we see instead is an intelligence approach, even our common policy today are influence by Intelligence agencies rather than academic interaction.  

India's policy was fashioned more as a response to China's growing strategic depth in Myanmar. The geopolitical reality of Myanmar as the only land-bridge to South East Asia and its strategic influence, said Prof Baladas Ghoshal.  

Instead of defining its role in an emerging economic and security architecture, India is almost depending on others to accord it a role. Our foreign policy and security establishments speak more about what the US, Britain or France says about India's rising power and potential. A major power communicates status by articulating its own vision and role in the world.

It shapes the strategic environment in a way that moves others to adjust themselves to its proclaimed world view.

But our policymakers are more prone to adhoc policy decisions. India's South East Asia policy has been reactive, particularly to what China is doing, not proactive in terms of trying to influence regional developments in its favour.

Manipur or Imphal should have been the center to establish a Myanmar studies program not today but in the 50s, it should been the eyes and ears for India but what we see instead is an intelligence approach, even our common policy today are influence by Intelligence agencies rather than academic interaction.  

India's policy was fashioned more as a response to China's growing strategic depth in Myanmar. The geopolitical reality of Myanmar as the only land-bridge to South East Asia and its strategic influence, said Prof Baladas Ghoshal

After the inaugural function, Manipur’s Chief Electoral Officer and International observer to Myanmar PC Lawmkunga gave a special talk on ‘Myanmar Elections: A firsthand account.’

He said, “There was no sign of either police or army in and around the polling stations. Yet there were no disturbances. Myanmar government did not assign the places for us to visit. We selected the places we wanted to visit. Although the observers were not allowed inside the polling stations, they were able to observe the proceedings very clearly as polling were conducted in the open with a shamiana on top. No inedible ink was used to mark voters.

The ballot boxes used in the voting were of the plastic shopping basket type which was covered with a pigeon-hole for casting of the ballot paper”, said Chief Electoral Officer Manipur PC Lawmkunga speaking on a special talk session on the topic Myanmar Election 2012. (IFP)

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Delhi Association of Manipuri Muslim Students condemns the brutal killing of Loitam Richard

New Delhi: Delhi Association of Manipuri Muslim Students (DAMMS), a student body of Manipuri Muslims in Delhi and NCR regions strongly condemned the brutal killing of Loitam Richard, aged 19, son of L Rajesh of Uripok Yambem Leikai, Imphal Manipur studying Architecture Engineering at Acharya NRV School of Architecture, Bangalore, on April 18, 2012 and also extended deepest condolence to the family of deceased , a release said.

The sudden demise of a student who would be the future support of a family and entire society was indeed a disaster to the family members. 


The students' association charged that he was brutally beaten to death on the night of 18th April 2012 in his hostel and he was mercilessly murdered . 

The  students' association said " What saddens us most is that a very responsible warden was busy watching IPL and the management has tried to wash their hands off and hush up the case." 

" Such unfortunate event of the incident reminds us the degrading moral, lack of brotherhood, and human values among the students. We strongly condemn the flaws in conduct of the authorities, and the security lapses. For obvious reasons we have faith in the authority that whosoever the culprit is, will be booked at the earliest." the association said. 

The associaton urged to unite all the student communities in particular and public in general to unite together and demand justice for the deceased soul.


The release appealed to very student community to maintain peace & harmony and not to repeat such inhuman act in the future. 

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Manipur to deploy armed security personnel along Nagaland border

Nagaland Post | Imphal, April 26: Manipur government will soon send a high level government delegation to Nagaland to discuss and find a way to end the existing land dispute at the inter-state border between Jessami and Meluri, said state home minister G Gaikhangam Thursday.

 He also added that an armed security post will be opened on the Manipur side as desired by Jessami villagers.   However, he added, “We will not remain silent if people from across the border intrude into Manipur territory and harassed state people and violate their rights.” As desire by the people of Jessami, state government has decided to open an IRB post at Jessami for the security of the people there at the earliest.   The disputed area located 3-4 km from Jessami to Meluri as per political case no. 25 of 1924 and 44 of 1947 and the recent incident of abduction of six villagers including a VDF (Village Defence Force) personnel by a group of around 400 villagers backed by armed village guards of Meluri village and subsequent release after they were physically assaulted, were not the first of its kind. 

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3 missing boys back home

Thursday, 26 April 2012

IMPHAL, April 26: In a big relief, three minor boys from Sairemkhun who had gone missing for weeks returned home today.

The three boys are Chanam Ajoynao alias Shantikumar, 15, son of Manglemjao; Soraijam Naothoibi, 15, son of Shamungou, both from Sairemkhun Maning Leikai; and Sapam Suran, 15, son of Naoba of Sairenkhun Kangdabi.

Sairemkhun is under the jurisdiction of Imphal West under Lamsang police station.

The three boys had remained untraceable since April 7 after they left home to watch a football tournament at Atong Khuman in the district. A missing report was also filed by their families at Lamsang police station on April 10.

Protests were organized by various Meira Paibi organisations in Sairemkhun demanding their safe release. The protestors also appealed to militant groups to free them if they were in their custody.

At around 6 am of April 22, unidentified persons telephoned to the trio’s families to recieve them at Moreh in Chandel district following which they were brought back home.

However, sensing reprisal, parents of the three minor boys first kept them at the office of Women Action for Development at Palace Compound here, and later on, they were brought back to their respective houses late afternoon yesterday.

The boys told the media that they left home around noon of April 7 to buy mobile phone recharge cards but Soraisam Ingo, 23, uncle of Naothoibi followed them as they walked towards a shop and later Ingo led them to a residence at Sagolband Moirang Hanuba in Imphal West.

Along came an unknown man, with whom they were taken to Khwairamband market in an auto rickshaw, they said. However, Ingo stayed back at Moirang Hanuba, they added.

They along with the unknown man stayed at a hotel for two days and from there, four of them left Imphal for Moreh in a van and that two unidentified individuals received them at Moreh, they further said.

The trio stayed another night at Moreh and they crossed Myanmar border the next day that is, April 10 and arrived at an underground camp, they told the media.

The boys said, at the camp they saw about 50 people who were in uniform and among them they could see seven women and two boys about their age but they were not newly recruited persons.

“You should live with your parents and leave the idea of joining the organization’, one of the cadres at the camp said.

According to Naothoibi, Ingo had asked them to join a particular underground group four days before they left for Moreh. He in turn asked Suran and Ajoynao to join the militant outfit, saying mobile phones would be provided to them.

Ingo, who was involved in the alleged recruitment of child soldiers, had been picked up by police commandos on April 3 but released and now he is undergoing treatment at a hospital. (IFP)

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K Jayenta: new Imphal West SP

IMPHAL, April 26: In a major shake-up of the police administration, senior IPS officer LM Khaute has been brought in as Additional DGP (Law & Order), while the new SP of Imphal West will be K Jayenta Singh, IPS.

In orders issued today, the Thoubal SP Jayenta has been posted at Imphal West while Additional SP of Imphal East Dr AK Jhalajit has been posted as the new SP Thoubal.

According to the orders, ADGPs V Zathang and PM Goud has been posted as ADGP (Int)with charge of IG Prisons and ADGP (AP/Trg/Home Guards) respectively.

The other postings are K Radhashyam,IPS as CO 1 MR; S Manaobi, IPS as CO 7 MR; HT Gangte, IPS as SP, Churachandpur; Kamei Angam Romanus, IPS as SP, Imphal East; LM Haokip, IPS as CO, 5 IRB; N Worngam, IPS as CO, 3 IRB; K Chaoba Lokho, MPS as CO 7 IRB; Faomei Gonglin, MPS as CO 2 MR; Md Firoz Khan, MPS as CO 8 MR; Y Ashokumar, MPS as Additional SP(Ops), Imphal East; L Ishwarlal Sharma, MPS as SP SIT; and Md Jackiruddin, MPS as Additional SP Kangpokpi.

Transfers have been effected at the level of OCs. The new postings of Police Inspectors are Kh Raikumar as OC Sagolmang PS; N Sadananda as OC Heingang PS; W Dhananjoy as OC Moirang PS and RK Anilkumar as OC Yairipok PS.

Meanwhile in a minor reshuffle in the civil administration, IFCD was taken from Principal Secretary (Home, Edn-S, SCERT, Adult Edn) Dr Sureshbabu, IAS and given to Commissioner Dr Rajeshkumar, IAS who came back after a stint at the Centre.

The other new postings are N Geoffry, IAS as Jt Secy (Home, RD & PR); MH Arvind, IAS as Jt Secy (DP, Planning, IT); B John Tiangtinkhuma, IAS as ADC Ukhrul besides SDO/BDO Ukhrul and SDO Jessami; Armstrong Pame, IAS as SDO/BDO Tousem; Robert Singh Kshetrimayum, IAS as SDO Keirao Bitra; Shyam Lal Poonia, IAS as SDO/BBDO Paomata and Phaibung; Ningam Chamroy, MCS as ED DRDA Ukhrul; A Temba Singh MSS as Dy Secy (Fisheries, MOBC); L Darsinso Anal MCS as SDO/BDO Chandel; Ranjan Yumnam, MMCS as Additional Director Edn-S Hills; Luckyson Ngamsa Kasung, MCS as CEO District Council Ukhrul; Hannah Kahmei, MCS as SDO/BDO Tamei; N Surjit Singh, MCS as SDO/BDO Saitu Gamphazol; M Goura Singh, MCS as SDO Lilong; T Kammuanlal Simte, MCS as SDO/BDO Tamenglong and Treasury Officer Tamenglong; KH Leiyaphy Rita, MMCS as AC to DC Ukhrul; and HL Jain, Jr MCS as SDO/BDO Chingai. (IFP)

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Rs 3 lakh ransom demand for Bosco boy

IMPHAL, April 26: In the wake of rising child kidnapping cases in the state, a militant outfit has claimed custody of the class VII student of Don Bosco High School, Chingmeirong T Rahul and demanded Rs 3 lakhs as ransom from the school authorities for the safe release of the boy.

Student bodies including the All Manipur Students Union, Democratic Students Alliance of Manipur, Kangleipak Students’ Association, Student Welfare Association of Kangleipak and Student Union of Kangleipak today convened a press conference at the AMSU headquarters in this regard.

Speaking to media persons DESAM general secretary Thoithoi said, a militant outfit has claimed that T Rahul is presently in its custody and that the school authorities should pay a ransom of Rs 3 lakh for the safe release of the boy. He however did not identify the outfit.

Reacting strongly against the demand the spokesperson of the students bodies said, ‘Such acts should be condemned by one and all as an act of terrorism and the concerned outfit should be branded as a terrorist outfit. ‘

Such acts of terrorism have happened in the past as well and as such the time has come for the people of the state to take a stand against such acts, he said.

Spokesperson Thoithoi further said, ‘Kidnapping someone and demanding ransom has become a thriving business in the state, and it should be contained at the earliest. The general public should be vigilant on the nefarious activities of militant imposters.’

The laxity on the part of the state police force has only strengthened these forces of terror and there are numerous instances when the law enforcers have themselves been found to be involved in such acts, he added.

He further appealed to all concerned on behalf of the student bodies to leave schools as a free zone and not to continue such acts.

He has further appealed the concerned outfit to release the boy without any harm.

DESAM general secretary Arambam Thoithoi, AMSU general secretary Dipanjit Ningthoujam, KSA general secretary Yumnam Pradipkumar, SWAK general secretary Sinam Punsiba, SUK vice president Laikhuram Santosh attended the press conference.

Takhellambam Rahul Singh, 12 son of T Sunil Singh of Ngaikhong Khullen, Bishnupur district had remained traceless since April 21 on the way from his school to his boarding. (IFP)

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No IM camps in Manipur: HM

IMPHAL, Imphal 26: Home minister Gaikhangam today denied media reports of NSCN (IM) having designated camps in the hill districts of Manipur.

He however hinted possibilities of ‘unofficial’ ones being positioned here.

Replying to a query from the media, he mentioned that the state government has no report about such camps.

“We have heard that there are some noted camps according to reports from the Army and Assam Rifles and we have intimated to the centre to take corrective action if such camps exists here”, he said.

Minister Gaikhangam stated that he required more time to rectify the needed changes in improving the law and order situation of the state. He took over as Home Minister on March 17 this year.

“I would require at least 3 months to assess the ground situation and to develop strategies for reforms in the police organization’, he told mediapersons at his official residence at Babupara this evening.

The vacancy of SP for Imphal West is another problematic issue, as the SPs are responsible for implementing the field work, he said.

Touching upon the recent child kidnapping issue he pointed out that, a red alert has been sounded to all police stations to prevent similar occurrences.

According to the minister, the issue has cropped up as there are very few left to join the ranks of the UGs, and hence they are kidnapping children to induct them to their outfits as child soldiers. He appealed the public to extend cooperation to the police in tackling the predicament.

Gaikhangam also gave his views regarding the Jessami incident. He mentioned that there are problematic state boundaries inclusive of Tungjoi, Dzuko and Jessami. These state areas bordering Nagaland have witnessed issues cropping up from time to time and the state fully acknowledges the situation.

He stated that those involved in assaulting the Jessami villagers have been arrested. As a preventive measure, the state government is planning to deploy a company of state security forces for posting at Jessami as soon as possible.

“The state cannot remain a mute spectator, we will intervene in the interest of the public and the state and seek central mediation if needed”, he added.

No differences with CM

Gaikhangam clarified that there is no conflict of interest between him and the Chief Minister regarding cabinet expansion.

He stated that the delay in is due to “overpopulation” and awarding portfolios is solely left to the wisdom of Okram Ibobi.

He maintained that such decisions need careful planning and there is no need for hurry.

“There is no time limit for expansion as such”, he said.

The minister hinted at possibilities of creation of parliamentary secretaries as a measure to appease the Congress MLAs. It was stated that there has to be a balanced distribution of the cabinet berths with respect to minorities, women, district wise etc. It may be mentioned that there has been no expansion of the government from March 16 and the present congress MLA numbers forty two.

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Local food at Chinzak festival: a review

Written by Imphal Free Press | April 25, 2012

By Chitra Ahanthem
IMPHAL, April 25: A stroll around the local Manipuri indigenous food stalls at the current Chinjak Festival 2012 (now in its 3rd edition) is all it takes to realize that there are many components to Manipuri cuisine. The labor of love that is involved in every step of making food appealing to the visual senses, aromatic to smell and interesting in texture while eating is what stays with one after sampling food and interacting with the people who have put up their cooking skills on offer.

Take the Kumbi Hentaak available at the Kumbi Development Committee stall for instance: they are well packed in small earthen pots (for Rs 50 each) sealed with plastic. Nongmaithem Imocha who runs the stall says that the hentak has been made from Ngaakha (a small indigenous fish).

“We catch the fish during early monsoon and then dry it. We then start the process of pounding the fish to be made into Hentak in September, which is the time that makes it delectable to taste.”

Asked what sets the Kumbi hentak from other hentak found in the state and Imocha says, “We use Hongu while pounding the fish. We also mix in type of Yendem amuba (a variety of allocasia indica) that is leafy and bigger. While the hentak that you find elsewhere or those made at home is lumpy, the one we have here is compact.”

Also available at the same stall is laphu singju that looks and tastes different from the ones normally found and eaten.

“We pound the banana stem and then take off the moisture by putting it in a cloth and wringing it. The next process is to dry off the pounded banana stem for 3 days, making sure that it is shifted thoroughly to ensure that it doesn’t get too dry,” says Nongmaithem Shantibala slowly dispelling the myth that singju is about chopping in vegetables and mixing in the garnish and flavor!

The laphu singju that emerges from the pounding and the drying is different from the usual chewable texture, replaced instead by a near melt in the mouth finish and powdery feel that leaves an interesting taste aided by a garnish of local herbs and greens.

The ‘star’ attraction for the Chinzak festival this year is definitely ‘Tonthoi’s Mathel’. That’s the stall run by this year’s National Award winner for Best Supporting Actress, Leishangthem Tonthoingambi who has brought in Phormon Phola as the huge dessert draw in the festival.

The usual fare of Phola made of curd, fresh milk, flattened rice, sugar and bananas mixed together certainly gets its own star status, aided by the addition of pounded peanut, a hint of honey and grated coconuts.

Tonthoingambi’s mother Leishangthem Leibaklei adds in a handful of singju when the phola is served: “Phola was served for every religious rites when we were growing up. It was customary for some Singju to be served right after Phola.”

While the Chinzak food festival draws people to the international food variety on display; it is the local stalls that throws in the real punch. Organized by the Innovative Youth Society in association with the department of Tourism, the festival has not only brought world cuisines to Manipur but has also given a platform to showcase local food and flavor.

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Brachin National Union (BNU) demands 'Greater autonomy' for North East states

Nagaland Post | Imphal, Apr 25In the backdrop of Centre’s reported plan for offering “greater autonomy of Nagas of Northeastern states”, the Brachin National Union (BNU), a Manipur based civil society demanded greater autonomy for the 36 ethnic communities living in Manipur, in a memorandum submitted to the Union home minister P Chidambaram. 

In the memorandum signed by its president R.K. Ranjit Singh and faxed to Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) Tuesday, BNU recalled that the civil organization existing since 1982 in the state has been demanding greater autonomy of Northeast states to prevent secessionists and terrorist activities. 

It asserted that, the idea of greater autonomy to a single community, Naga, neglecting other communities of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh may be termed as undermining of India’s federal structure and institutions established by the Constitution of India.  (Click the link to read the entire news here )

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INDIA: Judge, judge thyself

April 26, 2012

A Statement by the Asian Human Rights Commission

The attempt by the Supreme Court of India to draw-up operative principles for the media outlining the contours of Article 19 (1) (a) of the constitution is an exercise that the Court should not venture into. In fact, the Court does not have a constitutional mandate to do so. It is within the realm of the country's parliament. The Court is engaging in this exercise to purportedly 'safeguard the dignity, reputation and fair trial guarantees of an accused'. Though there is substantial weight in the fact that on many occasions representatives of the country's media have breached these fundamental rights, jurisprudential maturity warrants that the violation of such rights should be assessed and decided by the courts, on a case-by-case basis.

Attempting to create a pre-emptive architecture for the media affects an important fundamental right - the freedom of speech and expression covered in Article 19 (1) (a) - and threatens to create a pre-publication framework that could restrict this right considerably and without constitutional legitimacy. It would be a wide and condemnable departure from basic jurisprudence of the Romesh Thapar case, that had already been diluted and restricted by the time the Court decided the Arundhati Roy case. If former guidelines issued by the Court may be used as an indicator - as to how far such new guidelines will be followed - the exercise itself could be termed a farce.

The attempt to prescribe operational guidelines for the media could be viewed as expanding the contempt of court jurisdiction. Freedom of speech and expression is fundamental to the rule of law. The proposition to set out guidelines to the enjoyment of such rights is a direct attack upon the foundation of democracy and certainly will have a chilling effect upon the foundations of the country's treasured values underlined in the constitution. It is negates the binding international jurisprudence of the United Nations' General Comment number 34 on Article 19 of the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights, a core human rights document to which India is a party.

The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) is of the opinion that the riders attached to Article 19 (1) (a) themselves set a highly restrictive parameter to the enjoyment of this right. Terms like 'friendly relations with foreign States' and 'decency or morality' could be loosely interpreted at anytime, and, in fact, the Court is itself infamous for misusing its contempt of court powers. Additionally, the Court will most certainly have difficulty in defining the term 'media'. By the time the ink in the future judgment dries, new forms of media and mediums of expression would have developed. Perhaps it is time for the Court to realise that with the rapid pace of development in technology, a role that the Court should increasingly play is to protect rights and not circumscribe them, all the more since it is certain that such an attempt is like fighting a pre-scripted war that the Court is destined to loose, shamefully.

Venturing into areas that the Court should steer clear from will only help further deteriorate public confidence in the country's judiciary. If the Court is interested in upholding the dignity, reputation and fair trail guarantees of an accused, perhaps it must begin in-house, for instance by ending corruption in the judiciary. No judiciary worthy its legitimate mandate can afford to have a percentage scale attributed to the integrity of its judges. A judiciary is either corrupt or not corrupt.

The assumption that fair trial in India is hampered because of the media indicates a coloured vision of the judges and a propensity to avoid looking into mirrors.

Just as it is in any other democracy with a relatively free press, a trial by the media often results in cases involving high profile personalities. The news value that the Indian media ascribes to the plight of the ordinary people in the country is low. This is consistent with the feudal and insensitive mindset of those with power in India, but is also perhaps because the media today has more than what it can afford to publish - in terms of sheer space - concerning corruption at high offices in the country. High profile members of the central and state cabinets, the judiciary, the executive and amongst the media itself have exploited the inability of the country's justice institutions to punish and prevent crime at high offices. Each day unfolds a new scam unearthed. It is natural and expected that the media give prominence to such news. And, it does hurt those who are accused and investigated for crimes they have committed while serving at high offices. The Court is attempting to prevent such embarrassment suffered by those in power. The best and only antidote to ‘trial by media’ is a functioning and non-corrupt judiciary that adjudicates swiftly, not pre-emptive circumscription of free speech.

Had the common person been the Court's concern, the Court would have taken measures to end decades long delay in adjudicating cases. The Court should immediately end the practice of adjourning criminal cases without the accused being produced in courts. It must end corrupt prosecutions. That the Court has itself issued directions concerning arrest and detention, it should show courage and honesty. It should take contempt of court action against those that shamelessly violate its directions in the D.K. Basu case, which today stand as law.

It should have long ago pulled up state administrations, as the police under them are, throughout the length and breadth of the country, engaged in extra-judicial punishments, including torturing suspects and extra-judicial executions.

Should fair trial have been the real concern of the Court, it would have found and ruled draconian laws like the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 unconstitutional. Every entity that has examined this law has held it non-compatible with the concept of fair trail, but for the Government of India and the Supreme Court.

Anyone who has observed the proceedings in Tis Hazari and Patiala courts at the national capital for even a day would have no doubt that these courts have no understanding of the concept of a fair trial. The public perception that justice is a phantom limb of the country's judicial architecture is of considerable reasoning. The rich, the politically powerful and the corrupt judges in the country would readily agree to this, as otherwise they would have been behind bars by now.

The Indian judiciary should not be the only agency that is to be blamed for this despicable state of affairs. Its responsibility for accelerating the deteriorating rule of law architecture in the country is important and substantial nonetheless. The demoralisation suffered by the judiciary since corruption amongst numerous judges, including several Chief Justices, became public knowledge, and the utter failure of the institution to address it, is perhaps where the judiciary should concentrate first in order to reinstate fair trial guarantees in India.

For such an institution to circumscribe limits on freedom of expression and opinion at the behest of protecting the rights of the common person so that no one may call the nude king nude, is a despicable effort. The judiciary has alienated and distanced the common person so much from its august benches that today it has no moral or legal right to speak for the common good of the ordinary people. What is required is introspection. And, for that, judge, judge thyself!

# # #
About AHRC: The Asian Human Rights Commission is a regional non-governmental organisation that monitors human rights in Asia, documents violations and advocates for justice and institutional reform to ensure the protection and promotion of these rights. The Hong Kong-based group was founded in 1984.For information and comments contact: 
In Hong Kong: Bijo Francis, Telephone: +852 - 26986339
Email: southasia@ahrc.asia

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