Showing posts with label Manipuri Gorkhas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Manipuri Gorkhas. Show all posts

Rfn Bikas Gurung martyred in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu & Kashmir

4:15 PM

Son of the soil Indian Gorkha Rfn Bikas Gurung Indian Army got martyred during ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera area of Jammu & Kashmir today.

Bikash was a Gorkha Jawan From Manipur.

"Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of mortars on routine Indian Army patrol, 700 metres inside Indian territory in Naushera sector along the Line of Control (LoC) Saturday morning," a senior army officer told PTI.

In the exchange of fire, Rifleman Bikas Gurung of 2/1 Gorka Rifles was grievously injured and succumbed to injuries. The 21-year-old soldier belonged to Khunka Khuki village of Manipur, and is survived by his mother.

May his soul rest in peace and may God give strength and courage to his family and friends.

RIP Brother

Jai Hind Jai Gorkha

Distinguishing "Gorkhalis" And "Nepali" Immigrants

3:08 PM

In terms of migrants and immigrants, it is well acknowledged that due to the open border policy shared between India and Nepal, people from both the nations have emigrated from one nation to the other.

While immigration has continued freely post Independence, what majority of the people in India fail to realize is that prior to the British invading various parts of India, Nepalis were already living in across the length and breadth of India. Places like Darjeeling, parts of Sikkim, Kangra, and Garhwal were actually parts of Nepal until 1816 when these tracts of lands were handed over to the British. The land which were usurped by the British also contained a healthy population of Indigenous Nepali speaking population – today these people who did not cross the border, but for whom the borders crossed them back in 1816, are recognized as GORKHAS in the Indian context.

The term "Gorkha" is used in India to identify the Indian citizens of Nepali ethnicity including the indigenous Lepchas and Bhutias (in the Darjeeling and Sikkim context), from the citizens of Nepal who are referred to as "Nepalese."

Treaty Blues

Due to Indo- Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, 1950 (INFT) – the term "illegal immigrants" does not apply to people from Nepal entering India or Indian citizens entering Nepal. Every Indian citizen who moves to Nepal or every Nepali who moves to India does so legally and is protected by the INFT of 1950.

Article 6 and 7 of the INFT – 1950 state the following

Article 6: Each Government undertakes, in token of the neighborly friendship between India and Nepal, to give to the nationals of the other, in its territory, national treatment with regard to participation in industrial and economic development of such territory and to the grant of concessions and contracts, relating to such development. Article 7: The Governments of India and Nepal agree to grant, on a reciprocal basis, to the nationals of one country in the territories of the other the same privileges in the matter of residence, ownership of property, participation in trade and commerce, movement and other privileges of a similar nature.

Sadly it is these two clauses which were written to safeguard citizens from India and Nepal in each other's country, which creates misunderstanding and problem for Indian Gorkhas.

Most of the people across India naturally assume that all "Nepalis" are from Nepal, and start calling us "foreigners," "immigrants," and "outsiders" in various parts of India, and particularly so whenever we have demanded our rights to a separate state – Gorkhaland here in Darjeeling.

Via Hamro Manipur

JAC-PLAL opposes native status to Gorkhas

9:18 AM
Aug 24, 2016 IMPHAL, Aug 23: Opposing the demand of the Gorkha people to the State Government to ‘grant them native resident status’, the Joint Action Committee for Protecting Liangmai Ancestral Land (JAC-PLAL)has urged the Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds the tribal affairs portfolio, not to pay any heed to the demand.In a lengthy memorandum submitted to the Deputy Chief Minister, the Liangmai JAC justified its stand pertaining to the Gorkha issue by highlighting certain background.

“The Gorkha might have come to Manipur sometime in the first decade of the last century but they came to the soil of Manipur as soldiers, cooks, milkmen, traders and agriculturists” it pointed out in its memorandum. According to JAC-PLAL,  then political agent in Manipur, Maj HD Maxwell had verbally ordered Gorkha to move towards Kanglatongbi, Kangpokpi, Irang Part I & II to rear cows and buffaloes on February 17, 1915.Another permission was also given to 42 Gorkha families at Matakong onAugust 23, 1957. The above two permissions speak of their (Gorkha) non-resident status, the Liangmai JAC confirmed.It said, “The Gorkha on the verbal permission of the then political agentcame and occupied Liangmai territory in 1915 without the consent of the original settlers and land owners.
 JAC-PLAL opposes native status to Gorkhas
Manipur
Even as they had come and occupied the land, the Gorkha agreed to pay annual tributes to the native land owners. Since then they had been paying the tributes to the land owners till today (Copies of the tribute receipts enclosed as Annexure 1). Besides this, occasionalagreement had been drawn between the Liangmai native villages and tenant (Gorkha) to the effect that the tenants would abide by the customary and traditional practices of the Naga villages.  (Copies of agreements enclosed as annexure 2).”According to JAC-PLAL, there is no Khasland in Liangmai territory.In this regard, the Liangmai JAC recalled a landmark ruling of the Guwahati High Court in Imphal permanent bench between the North East Council, Shillong, the State of Manipur and the Deputy Commisoner, Ukhrul versus the Hundung Victims of Development Project, in which the verdict was passed in favour of the petitioners whose land had been acquired by theNorth Eastern Council through the Government of Manipur.

The verdict is reproduced here below for necessary information— We are here concerned with Hill Areas of Ukhrul that there’s no Government Khaslandin Hill areas of Ukhrul…..”.JAC-PLAL said that every village in Liangmai area is well defined as a unit with clear demarcation of boundaries between the villages. While such was the clear position, the then authority had pushed the migrant Gorkha “to our country andhad caused the present crisis.“The then political agent of Manipur, C Gimson, ICS in his note to foreigners vide copy of Memo No.4770/MS dated 15/8/1943 had written an inspection note of Irang part I & II to the effect that no boundary fixation was required in thearea.

To substantiate the statement, an improvised copy of the said memo is enclosed herewith for necessary information as annexure 3,” it pointed out while adding, “Again another political agent in Manipur, GA Stewart, ICS had issued an order on the 2nd July 1938 to the effect that no grazer should move from onevillage to another without an expressed order from the political agent in Manipur. Improvised copy enclosed as annexure 4.“In the light of the above stated facts and points, it is crystal clear that the Gorkha are not native residents of the State and the land they occupy was given for their temporary stay under certain agreements and conditions.

It is unthinkable to grant them native resident status when theindigenous people of the State are crying for protection of indigenous rights,” the Liangmai JAC added.“It is therefore, requested to look into the matter judiciously and take necessary action not to grant native resident status to Gorkha (Gorkhas),” the JAC-PLAL urged the Deputy Chief Minister.

Via- Sangai news


Ex-MLA of Manipur Kishore Thapa passed away, AMGSU expressed condolence

9:19 AM
Aug 17, 2016 The All Manipur Gorkha Students’ Union (AMGSU) today expressed deep condolence over the demise of former MLA Kishore Thapa and shared the grief and pain of the bereaved family.

The union said that the deceased foremr MLA was a prominent leader of the Gorkha community in Manipur and his untimely demise is a great loss to the community.

The general secretary of the student body, LB Adhikari recalled that Kishore Thapa was consecutively elected thrice from Kangpokpi Assembly Constituency from 1976  to 1990 while adding that he was elected twice on the Congress ticket and one as an Independent.

While sharing the grief and pain of the bereaved family, the union also prayed for the Almighty God to give strength to the family members to bear the irreparable loss of the dynamic Gorkha leader.
Meanwhile, the All Manipur Gorkha Students’ Union, Irang Part-II Unit said that the 70th Independence Day was celebrated at Irang Part-II Govt High School, Panikhetti yesterday.
Ex-MLA of Manipur Kishore Thapa passed away.
Ex-MLA of Manipur Kishore Thapa passed away.
It also said that the celebration was graced by Chandra Bahadur Basnet, secretary, Irang Part-II Authority Board as chief guest while Tilachand Poudel, president, AMGSU and Hanspokhri, authority member attended as functional president and guest of honour respectively.

The tricolor was hoisted by the chief guest. Hundreds of students from various educational institutions of the surrounding areas attended.

Via thesangaiexpress 

UCM stands by Gorkha UG group assertion in Manipur

IMPHAL, Aug 1: United Committee Manipur (UCM) president Elangbam Johnson has categorically stated that the reports about presence of a Gorkha militant group at Kanglatongbi, Kalapahar, Saparmeina and other places predominantly inhabited by Gorkhas are genuine.

Quoting news reports published in a section of the media at Imphal, Johnson made this assertion while speaking to media persons at their Lamphelpat office today.

There were reports about Gorkha people carrying out wall-poster campaign for a militant group named United Gorkha People’s Front (UGPF).

Even today, walls painted with UGPF in red colour can be seen at public places.

There was no harm when the United Gorkha Committee Manipur (UGCM) contradicted presence of any Gorkha militant group but it was simply unacceptable if they claim themselves as indigenous or native people of Manipur, Johnson asserted.
Manipur Imphal Map
Manipur Imphal Map
Affirming that he spoke about the presence of UGPF during the Great June Uprising and Unity Day observation at Kekrupat on June 18 this year, Johnson said that he made the same statement in line with the UCM’s principle of not favouring any political manoeuvre driven by ethno-exclusive  political aspirations.

Already, many indigenous communities of the State have been undertaking political movements which are primarily driven by ethno-exclusive political aspirations. If non-indigenous people too join this bandwagon, the threat to Manipur’s integrity would only multiply.

The UCM has been/would be fighting against all attempts to jeopardise the integrity of Manipur, Johnson asserted.

He then appealed to all communities of the State not to launch political movements  driven by ethno-exclusive or parochial aspirations.

Affirming UGCM’s statement that Nepalese and Gorkhas came to Manipur around 1920, Johnson said that during those times the Foreign Department set up under the Maharaja-in-Council collected taxes from foreign immigrants as well as for the cattle they brought with them. Under the same system, taxes were also collected from Gorkhas.

When Manipur regained independence in 1947, the Manipur State Council granted citizenship to 1000 Gorkhas under the Manipur Nationalisation Act 1947.

Again, many Gorkhas were granted citizenship under the Foreigners Permission Act enacted in 1958 after Manipur was merged into the Indian Union. The same Act was amended in 1978 and all the Gorkhas who came to Manipur after 1978 were assumed as foreigners. By this time, a large number of Gorkhas had already settled in Manipur, Johnson said.

In similar fashion, large number of Marwaris, Telis and Bengalis settled in Manipur.

Yet, UCM is not opposed to any particularly community. They may claim as citizens of Manipur but it is unacceptable if they go to the extent of claiming themselves as indigenous or native people of Manipur, Johnson added.

Via thesangaiexpress

Manipur Gorkhas laud state and MLA Kipgen for nominating Milan Pradhan

Gorkha bodies laud state and MLA Kipgen

KANGPOKPI, July 22: The apex body of the Gorkhalis in the state United Gorkha Committee Manipur and Gorkha Union Sadar Hills today appreciated Okram Ibobi Singh led government for nominating Milan Pradhan as a member of ADC Sadar Hills.

Hari Prasad Nepal, chairman, UGCM said that Gorkha people in the state are deeply contented by the state government’s thoughtfulness and encompassing decision to uphold the principle of “just and fairness” in nominating Milan Pradhan as the government nominee in the administration of ADC Sadar Hills.

“Such noble decision without depriving or unduly favouring anyone on the part of the state government is indeed laudable”, commended the UGCM chairman while adding that the state government has rightly taken the decision to nominate Milan Pradhan.

The UGCM also in particular appreciated Kangpokpi AC MLA Nemcha Kipgen in proposing Milan Pradhan as government nominee to ADC Sadar Hills.
Manipur Gorkhas laud state and MLA Kipgen for nominating Milan Pradhan
Manipur Gorkhas a file photo
The Gorkha apex body leader said that the honest and impartial decision of MLA Nemcha Kipgen is truly praiseworthy which signifies her neutrality among various communities inhabiting the constituency and her fair governance attitude towards the people.

“The Gorkha community in Sadar Hills in particular is indeed fortunate and blessed to have such fair-minded MLA”, he added.

The Apex Gorkha body also wishes Milan Pradhan a healthy and successful career in his new endeavor while congratulating him on being nominated as member of Autonomous District Council, Sadar Hills.

Meanwhile, the government nominee Milan Pradhan also conveyed his sincere gratitude to the state government and MLA Nemcha Kipgen for their decision to nominate him as member of ADC Sadar Hills.

“I am extremely happy over the Government and local MLA decision”, said Milan Pradhan while lauding Manipur Government and MLA Nemcha Kipgen.

Via Imphal Free Press



United Gorkha Committee of Manipur delegation met Chief Minister O.Ibobi

Manipur  7th july 2016 United Gorkha Committee of Manipur (UGCM) delegates meet CM Okram Ibobi Singh and had positive response from Hon'ble CM. Various greviences were tabled. Beside ILPS, the delegates also shared Gorkha community's issues. 14 members delegates of United Gorkha Committee, Manipur (UGCM) accompanied with Sekmai AC MLA Shri Kh. Devendro Singh meet Hon'ble Chief Minister, Shri O.Ibobi Singh and discussed various greviences that have been facing by our community.

After a hour long discussion a copy of Memorandum had been submitted to CMO-Manipur.

Demands chartered are as as follows-

  • 1. The Government of Manipur must invite Gorkha community for consultation during redrafting the ILPS bills. 
  • 2. 200-300yrs old History of Gorkhas settlement in Manipur should be preserved and no "Migrants" allegation should be made on Gorkhas of Manipur.
  • 3. To reintroduce 4 Gorkha Gram Panchayats which has been abolished few years back. 
  • 4. To protect and insure the safety of Gorkhas in Manipur as well to facilitate remote areas with proper connectivity, healthcare, quality education, etc
  • 5. Service quota in various department of State Govt. to be reserved for the aspiring Gorkha youths.
United Gorkha Committee of Manipur delegation met Chief Minister O.Ibobi
United Gorkha Committee of Manipur delegation met Chief Minister O.Ibobi
    Besides several other points General Secretary of AMGSU also added few core agendas of the Union.
  • 1. To check the Discrimination faced by Gorkhas while seeking Residential Certificate, Domicile Certificate, Gorkha Certificate and other required documents in District Administration Offices, and offices of SDC, SDO in Gorkha dominated areas.
  • 2. Proposed for building a statue to honour first Gorkha freedom fighter Saheed Niranjaan Singh Chettry. Taking a serious note, Hon.CM ask to find a proper place where that can be install.
  • 3. Proposed to construct a Gorkha Hostel in state capital.
  • 4. Non availability of facilities like proper educational institutions, health care, and electricity in Irang areas was the another point.


He assured electrifying Irang areas will complete by October this year.
Meeting with CM as been completed with thanks giving for keeping his words for providing the monetary assistance to the injured victims, and job to the father of Tilak Poudel who was killed in Police action during the protest against the rape of a minor girl on 18th April 2014.

Report via Lok Adhikari, General Secretary, All Manipur Gorkha Students' Union.

United Gorkha Committee Manipur formed to meet new drafting committee on ILP Bills

KANGPOKPI, Jun 27: The Gorkhas of Manipur today formed a new organization to be the apex body of the Gorkha community in the State to address the grievances and issues related to the Gorkhas and represent the Gorkha community in sharing views and opinions with the new drafting committee on Inner Line Permit System [ILPS].

The newly formed Gorkha organization christened United Gorkha Committee, Manipur was formed during a meeting today at Rose English High School, Kanglatongbi.

Various Gorkha civil bodies including Gorkha women leaders, social workers, politicians, bureaucrats, intellectuals, well-wishers, etc attended the meeting.

The joint meeting of the Gorkhas unanimously resolved to form a coordinating committee to address the grievances and issues of Gorkha community in the State and to follow up the current burning issue of the State.
Rally for Inner Line Permit (ILP) by women activists of IMA Market at BT
Rally for Inner Line Permit (ILP) by women activists of IMA Market at BT
While it resolved to name the committee as “United Gorkha Committee Manipur” which was reportedly constituted by various Gorkha civil bodies leaders, it also nominated some prominent Gorkha leaders and subsequently elected the office bearers of the newly formed committee.
Hari Prasad Nepal, Bhumi Prasad Vikas and Shiva Kumar Basnet were elected as president, vice president and general secretary respectively while LB Adhikari, Karan Rai, Dillip Bhurtel and Rajen Rai were elected as the joint secretaries.

Another seven persons were nominated as members in the meeting and it was also resolved to nominate members and advisory boards from other places of Gorkha inhabited areas.

Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Hari Prasad Nepal said that the Gorkhas in Manipur have various civil bodies but there is no organization to represent the entire Gorkha community as a whole on any issue so far in the State.

Therefore, UGCM is formed as the apex body of the Gorkhas of Manipur to tackle any issue of the Gorkha community, he added.

Nepal further said that UGCM will also represent the Gorkha community of Manipur in sharing views and opinions with the new drafting committee on ILPS and other current issues of the State while adding that it [UGCM] will address the grievances of the Gorkhas and work for the welfare of the community in the State.

Via thesangaiexpress


MANIPUR GORKHA LEADERS ATTENDED PEOPLE'S CONSULTATION FOR BRINGING PEACE IN MANIPUR

10:12 PM
Manipur 22nd June 2016 Manipur Gorkha Leaders including Hari Prasad Nepal (President Sadar Hills Gorkha Association, Gaon Bura Irang part 1), Shiva Kumar Basnet (Pradhan Kanglatombi Gram Panchayat), Vikas Basnet (Autonomous District Council Member), Lok Adhikari (General Secretary - All Manipur Gorkha Students' Union), Devi Prasad Thapa and Kasinath Thapa attended the People's Consultation for Bringing peace in Manipur.

The consultation program was organised by Concerned Citizens of Manipur on 22nd June at Siroy Conference Hall, Imphal Hotel, Manipur.

The Leaders said "We have share all our grievances faced during the ILPs movement, our settlement, coming of Gorkhas in Manipur, populations. The Chief Advisor of JCILP Women wings, Smt. L. Nganbi and Khaidem Mani Sr.Advocate Manipur were also there. They accepted our community as an indigenous community."

MANIPUR GORKHA LEADERS ATTENDED PEOPLE'S CONSULTATION FOR BRINGING PEACE IN MANIPUR
MANIPUR GORKHA LEADERS ATTENDED PEOPLE'S CONSULTATION FOR BRINGING PEACE IN MANIPUR

Via GYASA


Public petition urges Tribal JAC and JCILPS to end ILP impasse

10:46 AM
IMPHAL, June 21: Over 500 people have come together to promote talks between the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System - JCILPS and the JAC Against Anti-Tribal Bills, Churachand-pur, JACAATB to end the ongoing impasse and restore communal harmony between the different communities of the State.

Significantly the campaigners are drawn from different communities of the State and the petitions are submitted online on Change.org.

Copies of the online petition have also been submitted to the JCILPS and JACAATB.
A memorandum each was also submitted to the Chief Minister and the Chief Secretary requesting them to mediate between the two parties.

One of the signatories said, “We the signatories believe that dialogue is the only means to sort out the differences so that peace is restored.”

The petitioners produced ad verbatim the quotes from the JCILPS and JACAATB.
The Chief-Convenor of JACAATB H Mangchinkhup said : “There has been no initiative from the Manipur Government for any dialogue for the last 6 months. We are open to any dialogue with JCILPS.”
Public petition urges Tribal JAC and JCILPS to end ILP impasse

The Co-Convenor of JCILPS Md Kheiruddin Shah Moijingmayum said : “So far there has not been any initiative from Government of Manipur. Of course, want to go for a dialogue with JACAATB.”
One of the campaigners of the petition, Devakishor Soraisam is quoted as saying, “I was very worried about the present turmoil in Manipur, the growing distrust between the communities and the possibility of communal violence. I saw dialogue between the communities as the only way to ease this turmoil and bring about an amicable solution. I also saw that many people shared this same opinion, but our individual voices were not getting heard. Looking at this, I pitched this idea of a petition to my friends and jointly started this petition.”

Another campaigner, Ringo Pebam said, “We are not activists, we are not Civil Society Organisations, we are not influenced by the State or non-State actors, we are just common men like you and him and her, who see what we all see, and feel the urgent need for a dialogue between the spearheading committees of the hills and the valley for an amicable solution.”

Diana Elangbam, who signed the petition’s webpage in Change.org commented, “I am a daughter whose mother belongs to a tribal community and a father who belongs to the Meitei community and to my knowledge all I can say is that there has been a huge communication gap among the various communities of Manipur which can be solved through peaceful talks and this would be a great start.”
Another petitioner, Kenny Sialloa, said, “We have been living together for centuries. No force should allow us to live apart from each other.”

The petitioners are pinning their hopes on the two sides talking things over for peace.


Via Manipur Chronicle


Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015 most harmful for Gorkha inhabitants

6:24 PM
Writes: Binu Sundas

Fortunately for the Gorkha population residing in Manipur for years, the return of the Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015, recently, by the President of India, is a huge relief. This Bill along with the other two Bills, namely Manipur Land Reforms and Land Revenue (7th Amendment) Bill, 2015 and the Manipur Shops and Establishment (2nd Amendment) Bill, 2015 would have had a very adverse impact on the life world of the Gorkha, to the extent that eviction from the state could have become a norm. Of the Bills, the most harmful for the Gorkha inhabitants would be the Manipur Protection of Peoples Bill, 2015. The Bill, if passed and enacted as law, can declare any individual as non Manipuri if (s)he is not enumerated in all three registers 1. The National Register of Citizens, 1951, 2. The Census Report of 1951 and 3. The Village Directory of 1951. Therefore, what the Bill is trying to do is to make it difficult for the migrants to prove their provenance in Manipur. If enacted, this Bill can create another Bhutan-like situation for the Gorkha populace in Manipur.
Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015
Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015
The crisis can be viewed from the migration and economic resources mobilisation paradigm. Nepalis migrated to different parts of India prior to its independence. In the course of their movement, Gorkha also entered the fertile land the North East and Manipur.  The Gorkha have fought wars both for the British as well as  against them in the North East .  Some scholars push back the history of the Gorkhas in Manipur to the beginning of the 16th Century
(http://www.veergorkha.com/2011/12/gorkha-history-of-northeast-india.html). The main cause for migration is mostly related with the economic reasons but socio-political, cultural, environmental and geographical factors have also resulted in migration.

There can be host of reasons which motivates an individual to migrate but it also provides a platform to forge new forms of social and cultural relations and identity among the indigenous population as well as the immigrants arriving in the receiving society because migration often brings sudden and unanticipated contact of two or more very unfamiliar cultural systems, the consequence of which can be felt at both the intra group and inter group level. It can result into an enhanced collective consciousness and solidarity among those who migrate, based on kinship, community and ethnicity as well as by class. Symbols of ethnicity like religion, language, indicates to the migrants their origin. Such markers of ethnicity establishes the who ‘we’ and ‘they’ are and further helps to protect themselves from the hostilities and antagonism of the receiving society, even if these migrants are not aware of sharing these markers prior to migration. The migrants further develop their own and separate institutions and organisation for cohesion and solidarity amongst them in response to the discriminatory practices and treatment they perceive and experience at the hands of the receiving community (Richmond, 1988). Therefore migration is crucial for the inter-ethnic relations in a multi-ethnic society of the developing and modernising world as the protection of the space and the economic opportunities that exist within it are central objectives of a local population, while the expansion of opportunities are to the migrants (Weiner, 1978). This may results in conflict between the recipient and the migrating communities. Therefore the struggle to monopolise the resource is the cause for the conflict between these two groups. ‘Economic exchange brings people into contact; it does not bring them into agreement. Historically it has often produced a deeper awareness of the differences between peoples and stimulated mutual fears’ (Huntington 1996; 218).

What is happening in Manipur and the introduction of this Bill can be examined from this paradigm. When the region was underdeveloped and large holding of land was unutilised the natives of these places did not have any issue with the Gorkha population coming into the area as they were industrious and with their assiduousness contributed towards the development of the area. They started farming and cattle rearing and even fought wars for the Manipuri king and importantly established institutions which would safeguard their identity. The resources in the region was sustainable for the population and therefore there was no perceived threat from the ‘others’ to the receiving community ad assimilation took place. However, post independence with the development among human resources and the growth in population, competition for resources became severe and a perceptible fear gradually started taking roots among some of the Manipuris that the migrants would appropriate all their resources. Symbolic as well as concrete efforts were made to diminish the legitimacy of the Gorkha community as being part of the Manipuri society which reflected the antagonistic relations between the two groups. A letter to the editor in Sangai Express puts this fear in perspective

“The estimated migrant population in Manipur is around 7 lakhs which constitutes a-fourth of the population. If this trend is not stopped the indigenous/native population of Manipur would be reduced to a minority in another 2 or 3 decades like in the case of Sikkim and Tripura. But one thing, those who came before 1951 have no problem; they become Manipuris.

Would any society or state in India or any country in the world ever accept it? This is the grim reality in Manipur today and people are fighting for their survival.”

(http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/no-malice-no-bias-only-truth/)

Further Sapamcha Jadumani, president of Federation of Regional Indigenous Societies, some years ago said,

“According to the 2001 census the population of Manipur was 22,93,896. Out of this, 7,51,822 was the strength of the majority Meitei population, the tribal population was 6,70782, Mayang (outsider) population was over 7 lakh. This means there are more outsiders than tribals. There is only a difference of 40,000 between Meiteis and outsiders. Thus, there is a danger of indigenous Manipuri population being wiped out along with their culture, history and language. In 1946, there were just 64 Nepali homes, now they account for 3 lakh,”

(http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/manipur-demand-to-ban–outsiders–grows/943232/)

Historical accounts suggests that the government as well as the people of Manipur have acknowledged the contribution of the Gorkha people by naming streets after  Gorkhalis and giving land holding pattas to them and asking them to settle in the hills when the land in the valley became scarce, but now the situation has changed due to the competition for insufficient resources. What is required now?

Firstly as the Bill mandates that people should be able to prove their identity of being part of the state before or in 1951, which looks like a daunting task as many would not have it and since they are proclaiming that in 1946 there were only 64 Nepali household there is bound to be a lot of opposition even if people produce the requisite documents. For this the Gorkha population have to do as much research and keep all the records intact as re-examination of the bill by legal and constitutional expert is suggested. Further the people must also get their own legal and constitutional help.

It is time for the Gorkha institutions and organisation to liaison with everybody and form a strong opposition to this Bill. They have to meet important political leaders of the state and the centre, civil society members, NGOs and academicians. Gorkha Foundation has raised the issue of protection of Gorkha in the North East when it met the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Mr. Kiran Rijiju and in an informal meeting with Shri R P Sharma, Member of Parliament. This is not enough and larger delegations must be sent to leaders to pressurise the policy makers. Keeping in the light, the problems faced by the Gorkha population in India, it needs to be highlighted that the 1950 Friendship Treaty between India and Nepal also needs to be re-examined and accordingly ratified.

Most important of all , the entire Gorkha population of India should unite and fight against any action against the Gorkha population anywhere in India and coordinated, planned protest all over India should be organised to pressurise the government. We have for a very long time lived a life of a second class citizen, depending on the benevolence of others, it is time that we assert ourselves.

Binu Sundas  (Ph.D, JNU)
New Delhi http://binusundas.blogspot.in/
Via DT


Gorkha Students felicitated in Manipur by AMGSU

12:13 AM
Kangpokpi Manipur , Jun.19 2016: Based on the anonymous quote, “Climb high climb far your goal the sky your aim the star”, MLA Nemcha Kipgen motivated Gorkha students to strive beyond the best they can be during the state level felicitation of meritorious Gorkha student at Kangpokpi. The state level felicitation program was organized by All Manipur Gorkha Students’ Union (AMGSU) at District Council Hall, Kangpokpi to felicitate the meritorious Gorkha students who had successfully passed the HSLC and HSE examination in first division under state and centre board.

MLA Nemcha Kipgen while congratulating the meritorious students inspired them to set their goals high and also motivated them not to stop till they achieved it. She also said that student community should avoid keeping their studies aside and taking part in other issues which are not related to their responsibilities and duties as a student. The MLA also emphasized the vital of parents particularly in acknowledging the goals or desire of their wards in molding their careers to become a responsible and respected person in the society while illustrating various examples of parents compelling their wards to pursue in the field which is opposite of their [the student] goals and desire which could ultimately leads to destructive consequences.
The state level felicitation program was organized by All Manipur Gorkha Students’ Union (AMGSU)
The state level felicitation program was organized by All Manipur Gorkha Students’ Union (AMGSU)
The felicitation program was attended by MLA Nemcha Kipgen as Chief Guest while Bhumi Prasad Basnet, Executive Member, ADC Sadar Hills and Shiva Kumar Basnet, Pradhan, 7/24 Kanglatongbi Gram Panchayat as Guest of Honour. While Ch. Birendra Kumar, Assistant News Editor, DDK Imphal attended as Resource person, Chonkam Kipgen, Chairman Kangpokpi Town Committee and Anil Kumar Dahal, President, All Manipur Gorkha Students’ Union attended as Special Guest and Functional President respectively.

Around 171 successful candidates in Class-X and XII examination under Manipur state and Centre board including 48 Class X and 30 Class XII students under CBSE and 79 and 14 students under BOSEM and COHSEM respectively who were awarded Certificate of Appreciation by the organizing committee. Meanwhile, highest percentage scorers in state and centre board, subject toppers and teachers were also felicitated during the function with Certificate of Appreciation and Memento. Ch. Birendra Kumar,
Gorkha Students felicitated in Manipur by AMGSU

Assistant News Editor, DDK Imphal said while lauding the efforts of AMGSU in felicitating the meritorious students that it is important to first worship the teachers rather God, who imparted us good lesson and positive thinking while we are never sure of our creator. According to the Assistant News Editor, DDK Imphal, a best and an excellent teacher never give the right answer to the students but taught them [the student] the way to seek and find his/her own right answer. The Asst. News Editor further lamented that academic education is not that important and student do not need much academic education but it need more value base education while inspiring the student to chose their ways of life by their value base education. Bhumi Prasad Basnet, Executive Member, ADC Sadar Hills, Shiva Kumar Basnet, Pradhan, KGP, Chonkam Kipgen, Chairman KTC and Anil Kumar Dahal, President, AMGSU also spoke on the occasion and motivated the students in various aspects.


Via Prateet Pradhan




GORKHAS CHANT PEACE AT PEOPLE'S CONVENTION, DELHI

8:08 PM
PRESS RELEASE: Manipur Gorkha Society, Delhi

MANIPUR GORKHAS CHANT PEACE AT PEOPLE'S CONVENTION, DELHI

11th June, 2016: A delegation of Manipur Gorkha Society, Delhi attended the trust building day-long People’s Convention for A United Manipur People's Forum for Hills and Valley Peace and Reconciliation Dialogue at the Deputy Speakers Hall, Constitution Club, New Delhi today.

Concerned citizens and eminent personalities from Manipur and outside including Harsh Mander, Director of the centre for Equity studies, Dr Anuradha Chenoy, Dean, JNU SIS, Mr David Boyes, Founder-Member, Northeast India Forum Against Racism, Dr Alana Golmei, General Secretary, Northeast Support Centre & helpline, Mrs Rose Mangshi Haokip, President, Kuki Women's Union, Mrs Sitara Begum, Muslim Woman Leader, Mr Lakpachui Siro, Co-founder of FUNICH (Forum for understanding the Naga-India conflict and human rights), Mr Babloo Loitongbam, Director, Human Rights Alert, Ms Lianboi Vaiphei, IP College, Delhi (TBC), Mrs Lucy Jajo, Conflict Widow, Ukhrul, Manipur, Mr Amit Luwang, Mr Jenil, Social Warriors, Mr Ghanashyam Moirangcha, Mr Nido Patra, Arunachal Pradesh, different student leaders.
GORKHAS CHANT PEACE AT PEOPLE'S CONVENTION, DELHI
Representatives of the Manipur Gorkha community Rajen Chhetry
The convention was initiated by a team of social activists and volunteers including Ms Binalakshmi Nepram, Founder, Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network/Northeast India women initiative for peace.

In a full-day discussion, various speakers cutting across ethnic tribes and communities, discussed on various aspects of the ILP stand-off the Valley people of Manipur and the Hills tribe.

While some speakers pointed out the structural flaws in the legislation, others expressed their concern at the “mass” agitation, because almost 90 percent of the mass don’t seem to understand what exactly the legislation means. Some speakers called it a ‘manufactured crisis’ and some addressed the urgent need for all stakeholders to sit down and discuss, before it creates further rift in the society.

With a very interactive and positive note of discussions, the convention also expressed concerns that the never ending agitations that threatens to engulf the state one after another, can also be part of a larger ploy to keep the public away from talking about Development and Accountability. Appealing to the students to stay focused on their studies, the gathering also requested that schools students, medical and emergency services should be kept away from any such public blockades and bandhs.

Intellectuals and leaders from other NorthEast regions, bureaucrats and senior government officials also participated in the daylong discussion. Representatives of the Manipur Gorkha community was led by Rajen Chhetry, Sangeeta Pradhan, Gautam Chhetry, and Dinesh Sharma.

In an open-forum panel discussion various speakers including activists, intellectuals, community elders, mothers, youths and students speakers cutting across tribe and communities while agreeing on the need for a law to protect social political demography of the ethnic minorities,

Representing the voice of the marginalized communities in the ongoing agitation, Rajen Chhetry, social activist and youth leader from Manipur started by saying that his voice represents the “fears and concerns gripping thousands of marginalized communities, who are extremely vulnerable and are often at the receiving end.”
Highlighting the plight of the Gorkha community living in Manipur, Rajen Chhtery said, “Not just in Manipur, the Gorkhas have been the favourite punching-bag for any nativity propaganda across the North East. In the 1980s, thousands were forcefully evicted from Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and across the NE region and we still live without acceptance from the state government.”

He added “As a marginalized community, we have never enjoyed any welfare benefits or priviledges of a government. After 30 year of living my life, and with an ancestral heritage of over 200 years, I am still called an “outsider” and a “foreigner” in my own Motherland.”!!!. "It Pains" he added.

The Gorkhas have also been an equal contributor in the making of Modern Manipur. The community that came along with Maharaja Gambhir Singh’s troop and British army in 1824 played an important role in liberating Manipur from the Burmese in in Manipur after the Chahi Taret Kumbaba (Seven years Devastation). We had patriots like Subedar Niranjan Chhetry who sacrificed his life fighting for the native Prince Yubraj Tikendrajit, against the British.”

Appealing for peace and requesting introspection from all quarters, Rajen added “While I am not an expert in law or an intellectual who understand what is right or wrong. But as a youth of the state, I also believe there is a better way of address this real problem that affects us all equally.”

As was expected of every speakers to provide inputs for the solution of the vexed issue, Chhetry added, “As we are headed for a new beginning after such a historic event, this offers us a unique opportunity to resolve the crisis in the most satisfactory manner. While we step onto a new beginning, a modern state calls for “Inclusive Governance where the marginalized minorities are protected, and their rights safeguarded as per national and international laws. It is also equally important to recognize the contribution and existence of even the smallest section of the population, in the process of nation-building.”

Ending his speech with a call for peace, Rajen added “I am from Manipur and a Gorkha. I am proud to be from the North-East India, and from the land called the ‘Jewel of India’."

Via GYASA

AMGSU paid homage to Niranjan Singh Chettri on 125th Shaheed Diwas

8:05 PM
 Manipur 8th June 125th Shaheed Diwas of 1st Gorkha Martyr Shaheed Subedaar Niranjan Singh Chettri was observed by All Manipur Gorkha Students Union today . Subedar Niranjan Singh Chettri was 1st Gorkha to achieve martydom when he was hung to death by the British on the charges of revolting against them along with Jubraj Tikendrajit Singh on 8th June, 1891.

Various students and individuals came to pay homage to the martyr. The observance function was held at the office hall of union's Kanglatongbi Unit.

Shaheed Niranjan Singh Chetri was a Subedar in the Native Force of Yubraj Tikendrajit in Manipur.
He was trial by the Chief Political Officer, Commanding Manipur Field Force of then British Government of India and was sentenced to be hanged by the neck for assisting the Tikendrajit's Native Force against the British on 8th June, 1891.
AMGSU paid homage to Niranjan Singh Chettri on 125th Shaheed Diwas
AMGSU paid homage to Niranjan Singh Chettri on 125th Shaheed Diwas
Even after 125 years of his Supreme Sacrifice and 67 years of free India, neither Government of Manipur nor Government of India cared to honour his legendary. Even our societies seems to have forgotten our hero.

Heartily Tribute to the Legend who had made such a Supreme Sacrifice for the land, for the freedom from British Colonial Rules.


Via AMGSU

All Manipur Gorkha Students' Union to Felicitate Meritorious Gorkha students

11:33 AM
All Manipur Gorkha Students' Union (AMGSU) shall be organizing Felicitation Program for Meritorious Gorkha students of Manipur who secured 1st divison in the Boards exams of class X and XII-2016 and state subject toppers. The union request all the eligible Gorkha students to kindly submit xerox copy of their marksheet and admit card along with their contact no. at any of the collection centre/persons given below by 14th of June, 2016. After that the union shall not accept any submission.
  • 1. Yadav Store- Leimakhong opp. Magic parking
  • 2. Froebell School- Kanglatongbi
  • 3. Sandesh mobiles and computer- Kanglatongbi Bazar Board.
  • 4. Kafle Book store- Charhajare
  • 5. Mitra Pustak bhandar- Kalapahar
  • 6. M/S Hardware- Near Kangpokpi Police Station
  • 7. Saran store- Near Mt. Everest Parking, Senapati
  • 8. Adarsh Medical Store, Senapati Bazar
  • 9. Baskota Medicos, Mantripukhri
  • 10. Sincerly Yours- Maram Centre
  • 11. Gopal Koirala(9612103289)- Serou Bazar.
  • 12. Gopal Bhandari(9862458001) - Ukhrul Bazar.
  • 13. Narayan Adhikari(9436663262)- Irang Pt-II
  • 14. Nirmal Shiwakoti (897477013)- Gopibung
2015 felicitation program at Kanglatombi.
2015 felicitation program at Kanglatombi.

Manipur Gorkha Students' Union (AMGSU)
Manipur Gorkha Students' Union (AMGSU)
Require documents:
1. ADMIT CARD 
2. MARKSHEET one Xerox copy each
3. Write candidate working contact no.in the document. 

Last Date of Submission:
14th June, 2016. AMGSU will not entertained or held any type of complaint or responsibility after the expiry of collection date. AMGSU fervently request our young and aspiring students to submit their documents at the earliest time of possible. Lastly, I request the members of the Facebook Group to kindly inform to the maximum number of students who passed in first divisioners in 2016 exam and state subject toppers.

For further help and assistance kindly contact-
Kashinath Adhikari,
Central Executive, AMGSU
+918974186401
Milan Niroula,
Organising Secretary, AMGSU
+918794892297

Kindly Share the Information.
Regards/_
Prateet Pradhan
Information Secretary
All Manipur Gorkha Students Union
+919077311891

Manipur Gorkha Union condemns attack on Gorkha truck driver

10:41 AM
Senapati, Jun 06: Manipur Gorkha Welfare Union has condemned the attack on a truck driver by some unidentified armed people on Saturday near Changoubung village, Senapati district.

The union secretary, in a statement, said such attacks are very common at the Changoubung to Motbung stretch of the highway.
Truck driver Sanjiv Pradhan (35) of Kanglatongbi was hit by a bullet in the stomach on the Saturday gun attack.

The union, in the statement, urged the State Government to deploy additional security forces along the highway or form a Highway Protection Force to thwarth such attacks.
 Attack on Gorkha truck driver  in Manipur



Via thesangaiexpress

Gorkha martyred in Manipur terrorist ambush

9:06 AM
Manipur May 22 : Gorkha community deeply condole the sad demise of Mahesh Gurung and 5 other personnel. Mahesh Gurung of 29 Assam Rifles from Dehradun was martyred during a terrorist ambush reportedly by CorCom (Coordination Committee) militants at Hangshi, around 15 km from its battalion headquarters at Joupi village, in Chandel district of Manipur. The ambush took place between Hengshi and Tuiyang villages around 12.30 pm when the JCO and other jawans were returning after inspecting a landslide scene in the locality. Saheed Gurung had joined the duty only past month after spending his holiday at home. Saheed Gurung leaves behind his wife Seema Gurung, a 11 year old son, and a one day old baby daughter.



Mahesh Gurung of 29 Assam Rifles from Dehradun
Six personnel including an officer of the Assam Rifles have been killed in an encounter with terrorists in Manipur's Chandel district. The men belonged to a Quick Reaction Team.

Sources in the government said that an umbrella group of terrorist organisations planned and executed the attack. Four AK rifles, one INSAS Rifle and one LMG rifle have been taken away by the militants. CorCom, which is responsible for many bombings, is an umbrella group in Manipur comprising the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), Progressive faction (PREPAK-Pro), Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF – the political wing of the People’s Liberation Army – PLA), United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and United Peoples Party of Kangleipak (UPPK).

Home Minister Rajnath Singh - who reviewed the situation with top security officials -- directed the forces to take the "strongest possible action" against the terrorists involved.

Reinforcements have been sent to the area and a massive combing operation is underway.

Last year, 18 army personnel were killed in the same district in an ambush by a group of Naga militants.


Sadar Hills Gorkhas condemn deployment of Cdos in Sadar Hills

KANGPOKPI MANIPUR May 13: Various Gorkha civil bodies of Sadar Hills today vehemently decried the alleged silly utterances of JAC Shantipur and strongly condemned the deployment of Cdo in Sadar Hills administrative jurisdiction.

Motbung-Charhajare Gorkha Youth Union in its joint meeting today Motbung collectively censured the ignorance utterance of JAC Shantipur over the claiming of Inspection Bungalow at Gamgiphai as part of Imphal West while terming the JAC Shantipur as ‘misleading’ the public.

The Motbung-Charhajare Gorkha Youth Union also maintained that Inspection Bungalow at Gamgiphai where Cdo outpost was installed without the consent of the Sadar Hills people belongs to Sadar Hills and its is rightfully under the administrative jurisdiction of Sadar Hills which is a universal truth.

While strongly opposing the JAC Shantipur alleged silly utterance, the union also said that such statement has seriously disturbed the peaceful coexistence of various communities dwelling in Sadar Hills.

The union further expressed it’s strongly opposition of deploying and stationing Commandos at Gamgiphai and urges the state Government to remove in the interest of all communities in Sadar Hills.
Sadar Hills Gorkhas condemn deployment of Cdos in Sadar Hills
A file Photo
Meanwhile, Sadar Hills Gorkha Union also registered strong opposition over the stationing and deployment of Commandos at Gamgiphai while condemning the alleged immature utterances of the JAC Shantipur which hurts mutual correlation of various communities in Sadar Hills.

Hari Nepal, President, Sadar Hills Gorkha Union lamented that anything that could disturbs the peaceful coexistence of Sadar Hills will be opposed and condemned by the Gorkha community living in Sadar Hills.

He further said that stationing and deployment of Commandos at Gamgiphai fabricates extreme insecurity of Sadar Hills people which consequently disturbed the prevailing peaceful atmosphere in the areas.

It will be a worthy decision if the state Government withdraws the Cdo personnel and its Gamgiphai outpost at the earliest possibility, Nepal added.

The union president also said that the Gorkhas in Sadar Hills will endorse any move of the people of Sadar Hills in withdrawing the commandos from Sadar Hills.



Via ifp

Gorkha youth selected for Indian National football team

9:55 PM
Manipur: A proud moment for Manipuri Gorkhas. Ajay Chettri S/O Ganesh Pandey of Kanglatongbi, Hatikhuwa in Manipur has been selected for Indian National football team. He will now represent INDIA under-19 team.

His former clubs and academies- 

  • Gorkha Jyoti Youth Club
  • Kqnglatongbi Gorkha Youth Association
  • Mohun Bagan Seal Acdemy-West Bengal
  • Royal Wahingdo ahengdo Shillong

Gorkha youth selected for Indian National football team
Gorkha youth, Ajay Chettri, selected for Indian National football team
Ajay was selected by All India Football Federation to represent Indian National U-19 football team. Earlier This month he was called for trail by AIFF after he showcased exceptional football skill representing Royal Wahingdo U-18 in recently concluded I-League matches. After the trial now he made it to National Under-19 team. What an inspiration for young footballers..

Lets congrats his achievement and wish him good luck, guys. Jai Gorkha.!!!


Via Prakash Chettri for Kanglatongbi Gorkha Youth Forum

Senapati Gorkha Samaj condemns brutal rape and murder of Pampha Rai

10:28 AM
Senapati, Apr 6 : The Senapati Gorkha Samaj, Senapati has also strongly condemned against the brutal rape and murder of Pampha Rai, reports our correspondent.

In a statement, Senapati Gorkha Samaj also conveyed solidarity to the victim’s family members.
Appealing to the authority concerned to deliver justice to the victim and her family, the statement also urged all the organizations in and around Senapati district to extend assistance by demanding befitting punishment to the accused.


 
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