Army denies killing of jawans by NDFB (S)
Guwahati: The army on Monday denied that six jawans were killed in an encounter with NDFB(S) as claimed by the militant outfit in a section of the media.
The claim, published in a section of the media quoting an NDFB(S) spokesman, that six army personnel were killed and six AK-47 rifles along with two motorcycles taken away by the group on December 14 is “completely false and a hoax by the outfit to gain publicity,” a defense release said.
“The claim displays the desperation of NDFB(S) in spreading propaganda to threaten locals and show their presence in view of sustained operations against the group by security forces,” the release said.
“The misinformation is aimed at maligning the image of the security forces,” the release added. (PTI)
Governor inaugurates NEIUMUN
Kohima: The first ever North East India International Model United Nations, with the theme ‘UN 3 Pillars: Peace and Security, Development and Human Rights’ was inaugurated by Nagaland Governor Ashwani Kumar here Monday.
Over 200 delegates from 69 Universities and Colleges from all over the country are participating in the meet which got underway on Monday at Indira Gandhi Stadium here.
Kumar delivering the inaugural address said that United Nations Organization is the noblest organization of modern times which has a voluntary support of 193 member countries and governments.
He said that while the UNO is taking measures to reduce and eliminate Weapons of Mass Destruction, the people of North East India need to discuss and decide how to make NE India weapons free, whether illegal or legal, whether with individuals or government forces so as to minimize the threat to peace in the region.
He also encouraged the delegates use the platform of NEIMUN to share their experiences, establish partnership and formulate strategies on the topics selected for deliberation. The conference will feature classes and seminars on skills in writing, speaking, negotiation and diplomacy. (PTI)
Journalist death : Assam media supports C’garh journo’s agitation
Guwahati: Demanding action against the alleged murder of 51-year-old journalist of a daily, the Journalists Forum Assam (JFA) today extended moral support to agitating mediapersons of Chhattisgarh, where the incident took place.Sai Reddy was hacked to death on December 6 at Basaguda, 500 km south of Raipur.
Local scribes staged demonstrations yesterday with their demand to nab the killers of Reddy, who, used to work for ‘Deshbandhu’ Hindi daily.
The agitating journalists expressed utter dismay that Reddy was killed by the goons in full public view in the market area near a police outpost and also a CRPF camp but nobody has been booked till date for the crime.
An active, honest and committed rural journalist, Reddy reportedly used to receive warnings from the ultra Left outfits. Called by Bastar Jila Patrakar Sangh, the Sunday demonstration was attended by over 200 journalists. Later they submitted a memorandum to the authority. Meanwhile, scribes of seven districts of south Chhattisgarh decided to boycott any news related to the Maoist insurgents.
In a press statement here, JFA president Rupam Barua and secretary Nava Thakuria urged the BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh government to take proper action so that the perpetrators do not get impunity in the name of revolutions. (UNI)
Hiphei elected Speaker of Mizoram assembly
Aizawl: Veteran Congressman Hiphei was today elected unopposed as the Speaker of the seventh Mizoram Assembly.
Governor Vakkom Purushothaman will address the three-day session of the assembly tomorrow and Deputy Speaker would be elected on Wednesday, assembly sources said. Hiphei (73) was elected from Palak seat in Saiha district defeating President of the Maraland Democratic Party (MDF) P Thawlla in the 40-member state assembly polls on November 25.
Hiphei was the first Deputy Speaker of Mizoram and held the post from May 12, 1972 to may 10, 1977 after Mizo District Council was elevated to a union territory and began to have its own legislature. He was elected Speaker of the Assembly in January one, 1989 and held the post till July 14, 1990. He was also the lone Rajya Sabha member from the state for two consecutive terms. Addressing the state legislature after his election, Hiphei appealed to the members to maintain dignity and decorum of the Assembly. Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla and Opposition leader Vanlalzawma assured him of full cooperation in maintaining the order of the House. (PTI)
Arunachal CM leads delegation to New Delhi
Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki on Monday led a delegation to New Delhi to pursue the Centre for creation of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in the state, a long felt demand of the people. The delegation comprising of ministers and legislators would meet UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde to pursue them for creation of the Mon and Patkai ADCs, for their speedy socio-economic development, official sources said.
The state cabinet in its December 11 meeting had decided to take up the granting of Mon ADC for Tawang and West Kameng districts and Patkai ADC for Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts with the Centre, taking into consideration the resolution adopted by the state Assembly.
About 20,000 people from all sections had conducted a massive rally at Tawang on November 25 last demanding grant of ADCs before the next general elections due early next year.
The Assembly first adopted the resolution moved by TG Rinpoche in 2004, again in 2007 before endorsing the same yet again on September 23 last when Tuki had assured of meeting the Union Home Minister to pursue the matter along with the resolution. (PTI)