Say Goodbye to Blockade Phobia!

No matter which body imposes it, all of us suffer the brunt of economic blockade. So you have a grievance against the system- plan an economic blockade or a general strike. Oh! Protest rallies are not a bad idea as well. A year without any general strike, economic blockade or protest rally would not be ‘Oh So Manipur.’ The recent economic blockade which was as omchaaknaba as langbangi nungsha was finally suspended. But its phobia still persists.

Well, according to a (not so reliable) source from Manung-Mapaan ministry, a few awaangba thaaki measures have been taken up to fight the problems of any impending economic blockade in the future. There are in fact many master plans in the pipeline which will of course take an ample amount of time to execute. Perhaps, we may finally have a reason to say goodbye to blockade phobia eh?

As per one of the master plans from the concerned ministry, a sky bus service will soon be launched in the Imphal-Dimapur atiyagi route to ferry goods and passengers to Imphal. A body called All Manipur Maalang Transport Association has been formed to assist the ministry to execute its plans. For safety reasons, the sky bus will always be in invisible mode. Any passenger who has to hop on or off the bus has to press his/her code at the entry and exit door. Technologically equipped with many striking features, this sky bus service will finally help the people of Manipur to say goodbye to blockade or bandh phobia.

Mr. Waajao-ngaangba from Pao Faodok Faojin Department calls it a ‘stupendous idea’. He adds “I still can’t believe that such a project is going to be implemented in our state. The project sounds pretty promising. It will also ultimately discourage all the blockade mongers in the near future.”

“Over the last few years, bandh or blockade has become a necessary part of our lives. It would not be a wise decision to sternly act against any body or person who spearheads any type of bandh or blockade especially considering the various (impossible) demands of the so called bandh or blockade mongers. We had officially partied many nights discussing on the probable means and measures to tackle such a problem. I am very glad that our association has finally come up with such an innovative measure. I am sure we will easily tackle any problem during a bandh or blockade with the help of such a bus service. ” states Mr. Dhapparrmayum Dhapjao, President of the newly formed body- All Manipur Maalang Transport Association (AMMTA).

The newly appointed Chief Engineer of AMMTA, Mr. Techkishore Aheipasaaba-mayum also shares his valuable opinion, “This is the best ever solution for all of us to fight blockade. Due to the upcoming Sangai Festival, we will not be able to focus on the construction work of this Maalang Bus project on a current basis. However, the foundation stone will soon be thrown up. We are currently very busy sorting out the best rocks from Sekmai beach to throw up in the sky for a solid foundation. We are planning to start the construction works right after Sangai festival. We will hopefully complete by next major blockade.”

A tender has already been announced for interested contractors who want to work on this project. There will not be any commission for any Hongba, Chaoba or Tomba. It is also notable that every penny for the project will be funded by Bank of Soraren (BOS).

A press conference will be called in a day or two at the open air office of AMMTA to share the plans and strategies of this project. By and by, the concerned ministry expects full co-operation from the public to add wings to this dream project. Construction workers who have experience in handling awaangba-thaaki projects can submit their resume at AMMTA’s office as there will be various job openings that suit their profile.

                   Courtesy Naatrang Reporter from Sundrang News Services.

 This article was published on 14 Sep 2014
 

Laangban Diary — Of Blockade & Its Side-effects

A troop of laangbangi angaoba leichil had a disheartened retreat under the command of its leader Mr. Laangbanjao. As reported by Mr. Naatrang, “Mr. Laangbanjao, he wore such a dismayed look as we crisscrossed our ways. I had waved him ‘hi’ but he did not even bother to wish back.”

On introspection, it has been narrated that the sight of long queues at the petrol pumps, had discouraged Mr. Langbanjao and his troop of angaoba leichil high, very high up in the sky.

Prices of daily commodities also keep on rising like esing echao for the last few days. We are obediently bearing the burnt of economic blockade which is currently imposed on the Imphal-Dimapur highway, which is also the lifeline of Manipur. Blockade has always scared us like hell and khoiren-masha paiba has been a classic reaction among our people.

Economic blockade imposed on any of the highways always had and has its side-effects. Petrol pumps suddenly run out of stock and inflation finds its glorified meaning. Beat the laangbangi omchaaknaraba nungsha, every Manipuri queues up at the petrol pumps from early morning till late evening.

A few social scientists recently conducted a thorough research on social behaviour of Manipuris. They have finally come up with the discovery of a new disease called Blockade Phobia. The syndromes of this disease include:
- Inability to eat or sleep properly until and unless the petrol tank of one’s vehicles is filled up. The related syndrome includes waking up early in the morning and the urge to go and queue up at the nearest petrol pump from one’s leikai. Under certain cases, the patient may have a tendency to visit the same petrol pump in the evening to fill up gallons of petrol to stock up.

- Another serious syndrome often observed among patients of blockade phobia is the kick of petrolpeneurship. Petrolpeneurship is a newly coined termed, by the social leipoong scientist. It is defined as the sudden desire of becoming an entrepreneur by investing on gallons of petrol and selling the same at an inflated price.

Criticized as an unethical means of entrepreneurship, Mr. Achumba, the president of All Manipur Maram Mokpa Association spoke, “We should not waste even a single minute to cure all the patients of such a disease. These patients, if not treated in time, can become a threat to many innovative businesses that are gradually evolving across the state. We need support from the sensible citizens of this khunai for a permanent treatment of such a disease”.

“The patients of blockade phobia and their oddities can have a disastrous impact on the impressionable young minds”, said Mr. Angaangjao.

He continued, “We should appeal to the concerned authority to come up with preventive measures to check this sandokanba leina as soon as possible”.

Meanwhile, Mr. Heipaasingba, the president of Heipaa Saajage Haiduna Houdokchaba Organization remarks, “There is an easy remedy to cure such a phobia. We should start adding ‘Blockade’ to the nomenclature—at least one member of our family can have the name. This way, we will get familiarized with Blockade in a more intimate way. This will ultimately help in erasing the general phobia of blockade”.

Citing an example he added further, “The expression ‘blockade laaktoure’ could have a double meaning; for example, Blockade laaktoure could mean a child called Blockade is returning from school as much as it could mean the possibility of an economic blockade to be imposed on any of the National Highways.”

Mr. Laangbanjao has sternly condemned the disheartened retreat of his leichil troop. From rumours, he has reportedly told his band, “I need an answer from the Ministry of Seasonal Affairs for such an illogical act or else we will also call for a blockade in the sky of Manipur”. As per our Lei-Ngao Thi-Ngao reporter, AFSPA is likely to be imposed in the sky of Manipur in order to put the situation under control. Jet fighters may soon arrive from mainland India.

Postscript Dear Leibaakchasing, let’s try to sneeze out the insanity and insensibility for a change ‘haakthi’! Daylight robbery has become a sort of entrepreneurial skill. What else could be the reason for the scarcity of petrol just from the announcement of a highway blockade—mind it, not from the blockade but just from its announcement — regardless of its senselessness? And here’s my siki worth question of the day-When are the agitators in the hills ever going to understand that their blockades have never affected the government, but rather this kind of protest has been only torturing the general people?

This article was published on 7 Sep 2014

Flimsy Sides: The Demand for ILP System in Manipur

One of my previous columns, titled ‘Implement ILP System in Manipur’ interestingly caught the attention of many readers. I had no idea it would open a wide room as they poured in with encouraging feedbacks, suggestions and criticisms of all sorts.

I did not intend to flare up a spark of animosity between non-Manipuris and Manipuris through my article. However, it saddened me a little bit that some of the readers misconstrue and criticize the write-up in a manner as if I had deliberately attempted to churn a flaming inferno of racism through it.

Many pseudo-intellectuals with their fake identities even started attacking me personally with their vitriolic remarks. Their Moronic (with a capital ‘M’) comments did not bother me the least. However, I feet pity for them and their incapacitated understanding of my article and of the issue as a whole.

Internet has helped many of us to revel in free comments. I hope it will help people take educated and rational decisions and contribute healthily for our collective betterment. Hurling personal abuse does not help anyone.

Well, the demand of ILP system has so far gained its momentum. But it’s quite discouraging that there isn’t any progressive sign of its implementation from the government — neither there are informed discussions on the issue. I wonder if the matter is even considered for discussion, in the real sense, by those who are responsible.

Some flimsy sides of the agitations and protests have been putting us off for the past weeks. I have listed down a few observations:

1. Many people believe that the demand for ILP system is a one-sided affair. We should keep it in our mind that through ILP system, we are not demanding for an exodus of non-Manipuris from Manipur. Are we? On the other hand, it is so ridiculous to consider that those who are residing outside should come back to Manipur.

2. Using defamatory words, which may hurt the sentiment of a particular race, is again not a healthy sign of civilization for any community. It should neither be used as a tool in the pursuit of implementing the ILP system in Manipur.

Blunt remarks or usage of derogatory words against any race should be avoided as much as possible. If we belong to a civilized community, let’s think, act and speak in a civilized manner. This may sound preachy but I cannot help it, seeing the development ever since this latest round of protest commenced a few weeks ago.

3. Resorting to any type of violence should never be equated with amplifying our voice. We can have a unique milestone of our own good — we only have to resort to ‘leibaak-macha taaba’ ways and means of protests and agitations.

4. It is also the right time for us to acknowledge that the ILP system in Manipur will not save us from all the troubles. It is just a tiny part of the whole. We have a long list of aggravating issues to deal with. Insurgency, poor governance, erratic power supply, pathetic transport and communication network, the hill-valley divide, etc: all of these are our collective mess. Among these issues, the rising number of crime against women and children over the last few years is quite a matter of concern.

While the demand for ILP is gaining its momentum day by day, the number of crime against children and women unabatedly alarms our sanity. It’s quite an ironical situation. We are demanding for one such permit system that will control the influx of outsiders in our state. At the same time, we are equally threatened by our own folks who have not left any stone unturned to terrify us with their heinous crimes.

Such is the condition of our state. Such is the nature of our people. How many familiar demons do we have to deal with before we even try to figure out unfamiliar demons among us? The question is quite perturbing I know. But we must try to figure it out before the problem gets out of control, like it always does in Manipur.

The monsters and demons that reside among us are the perfect partner to the rising population of immigrants. When is the government coming out of its comfort zone and tell the people protesting on the street that it is working for the best solution? Do we need to call the leaders name like it happened recently so that they come together?

This article was published on 10 Aug 2014

Implement ILP System in Manipur

Manipur Masala presents a thought singju on the Inner Line Permit system in the state

A few days ago, a North Indian friend asked me over an online chat: “Why ate all the fuss about the ILP system in your state?” Of course, I told her the obvious.

I started, “Imagine the Manipuris are in millions and the Rajasthanis, in mere thousands. How would you feel when there comes a situation: all the Manipuris are starting to settle down in Rajasthan? We would not only consume all the available resources but also exhaust most of the available options of employment in every sector. Our population would keep increasing day by day while the population of the natives would decrease at an alarming rate.”

How lucky are those who do not have to go through the trials and tribulations of belonging to tiny ethnic groups! But my explanation, when I pressed the replied button was looking so lacking and so I continued.

“There would also come a time when you guys would not be able own land in your own land. On the other hand, we, the outsiders, will become the new property owners and landlords. We would also be running flourishing businesses at every nook and corner of your state. How would you really feel about that?”

She did not reply for quite some time. After a long pause, she finally typed, “Arrey yaar, aise kaise ho sakta hain?”

I shot back, “Aise hee ho rahe hain yahaan. ILP has become a major concern in our state. One day you may plan to visit me here but you would never be able to locate my home because it might be owned by some non-local then. That’s the probable situation, my dear. And that’s why we desperately need ILP in Manipur.’

My sweet friend empathised with me over the issue. She did understand the currents that have gripped our state over the last few days.

It took less than half an hour to explain about this issue to a non-Manipuri friend. However, it is disheartening to find out that our so called self-styled leaders are taking such a long time to understand the issue and implement means to empower it. Can they be this much insensitive about such a crucial issue? How do they represent themselves as our mapi-mapa when they do not pay any heed to any of our grievances?

The inhumane manner of thrashing students as if they are lamgi sha-sun is such a condemnable act. Do the police personnel understand the meaning of a human being? It seems not. I wonder who commanded them to thrash the students; perhaps they are just the most stupid stooges in the whole universe. Otherwise we know they would not even act, carry out even their own duty on their own. The students are demanding for ILP — for everybody — and not for not air-conditioned classes or swanky facilities at their schools and colleges.

The ILP issue is not meant for a particular community or locality. It is a common issue that, in my opinion, should tickle the conscience of each and every person in the state.

Closing down schools and colleges was definitely a kok yaodaba reaction from the government. A counter general-strike was neither a wise solution — though none of these is a surprise, if we look back and recollect the evergreen ad-hocism of the ruling government. There is a saying in Manipuri – Langnaradi nungduum waatey. However, during such a crucial issue pelting stones at each other is not the best thing we can do. We are supposed to have a common stand for both the government anf the governed on such an issue.

Chafu kairaga kwaakna haraowi. It is the high time we stop pleasing the so-called crows in question. Implementation of ILP in Manipur has nothing to do with the fear psychosis that the non-Manipuris will be excommunicated from the state. Frankly, it is not even a claustrophobic social reaction. ILP is not a China Wall to drive away the non-Manipuris from Manipur.

We need ILP to preserve and protect our land, to have a control on our economy, to build our business and most importantly to safeguard our cultural identity.

A linsu-siba-cheisusu-tektaba strategy would be a wise step from the government. If not, this issue may further aggravate and may probably become a predecessor of various other issues. Let’s stop stirring a tempest in a lai-khudeng. Let’s raise our voice to implement the ILP system in Manipur.

This article was published on 27 July 2014






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Readers have a lot to say on this issue. Some of the comments on the Sangai Express webpage is pasted below (Excuse the pathetic English):
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Then every state should start the same thing and manipuris should not be allowed to stay in any other state as in Delhi and south-India many are there. This will increase communal disharmony only.

Posted by Amit on 27-Jul-2014 at 07:02 AM

If the whole population of Manipur(say 27 lacs)migrated to UP which having population of 22 crores,the situation may not be alarming to UP.But when more than 5 lacs outsiders(Mayang) migrated to a tiny state like Manipur with population of 27lacs,only the situation is so alaerming,it threaten the ethnic identity,socio economic,cultural,traditional and political aspects of the indigenous ppl.Time to raise up,we owe to our students community for taking on the horns of stiff suppressive policy of state government.We should appreciate our students community.

 

The piece of sanatombi is an inspiring one,thanks for your contribution.A quote from Malala Yousafzai,a global icon ,only 17 yrs of age, take on Taliban head on in Pakistan in her age of 11,advocating education for girls."One child,one teacher,one book and one pen can change the world".In our age of social networking,we can thrive for implementation of ILP,to save us from being" extinct"Every citizen can contribute to his or her capacity,to achieve it.

Posted by Ibochou on 27-Jul-2014 at 09:03 AM

dear sanatombi angomcha, I must say..im a bit disappointed aftr reading ur article as it seems more lik a one sided argument. Can u pl eloborate? How do outsiders end up owing land in manipur? Was it by grabbing land or becoz it was for sale? If it was grabbed, yes., its criminal..but if they bought it fr the manipuri owner..doesnt it mean dat the previous owner had economical reasons for selling it..mayb becoz of the declining economy, he cudnt maintain da property n saw it more benificial to sell it? 

 

Den sudnt we focus more on how to improve the economy of the state?in dis case,ILPS will become a deterant to investment from outside. Secondly, u seem to b of the view dat we(manipuris) hav similar interest..is it true? What is da difference between a rich mayang n a rich manipuri?how is land owned by a rich manipuri going to be different?is he going to giv his house rent free? Ur assumption is dat it is better..so please eloborate. My understanding is dat a capitalist is a capitalist. Also..wont ILP play spoilsport in da growth of business? 

 

I wont go to mizoram or arunachal n invest in those states fr da same reason investors wont invest in manipur if ILP is introduced.and if I earn money from setting up a business in manipur with ILP in da state..I cant invest in land so il be taking the money out of the state..money wont come in from outside..so manipurs economy will not improve. Again, how did u assume dat the students r pro actively struggling for ILPS? Have u taken a poll to see who supports n who doest? Or even better..who realy understands the issue at hand? my experience tels me they r made to march by some 'student leaders' who jus barged into the classroom. These r young ppl wid limited understanding of the issue..n r being used as pawns..made to face the colonialstyle police n suffer physical injuries. We all want to contribute for the betterment of manipur but majority of the public stil do not understand in entirety, the issues related to ILPS. 

 

We form opinions besed on small talks n one sided articles in local media. I humbly request u to write another article explaining these in minute details. Infact..a pros n cons on ILPS will b extremely useful. We know that a thesis needs a strong antithesis for it to develop...consider my comment as such.

Posted by Jemjem on 27-Jul-2014 at 09:57 AM

@editor..is ther any seminar I can join to discuss and debate and improvement my understanding on dis issue?

Posted by Jemjem on 27-Jul-2014 at 10:01 AM

then why do we need to be pissed off with the racial crime in Delhi or Bangalore or Pune??? if you said so "Imagine the Manipuris are in millions and the Rajasthanis, in mere thousands. How would you feel when there comes a situation when all the Manipuris start to settle down in Rajasthan? We would not only consume all the available resources but also exhaust most of the available options of employment in every sector. Our population would keep increasing day by day while the population of the natives would decrease at an alarming rate,” then non-Manipuri would also say the same. My dear author, this is not all about non-Manipuri taking up your job or eating up your/our share, but its also the fault of Mr. and Ms. Manipuris who are damn lazy and who would love to act like BABUS...to me, we better clean our mess before u strike directly to non-Manipuris

Posted by Pathau on 27-Jul-2014 at 10:08 AM

Amit don't worry,don't panic,we know u hv ILP phobia,the word ILP is not comfortable for u ppl. Coz if ILP is implemented,ur game plan to overwhelm Manipur with Mayang,to turn Manipur another Tripura will be defeated.But most of ur fear is due to poor knowledge on ILP,I reiterate ILP didn't in any way prevent any one to entered and stay in Manipur,but you can't be settled permanently here in Manipur.The faltoo migrants will be prevented.Don't worry if we succeed in ILP,again we will work to implement ILP in other states of India too,then to other countries as well.Manipuris are broad minded.We will again demand ILP for world,after our job is completed......Ur ignorance is a crime not only for u but for ur family too...u look sikkim,nagaland,mizoram,arunachal where ILP is enforce,did their state prevent any outsiders from staying for specific purpose,for specific time?the ans is NO. But it prevent intrusion without purpose and permanent settlement.So if u think for permanent settlement in Manipur,ur worry is genuine,otherwise imaginary.@Manipuri,@Abhi Sharma etc who are descendants of Mahabharata Arjun may be a little worry coz they want manipuris to assimilate with Aryans Indian,in the name of global world,you may discuss ur future course of action to prevent it but I don't think they will succeed much.

Posted by @Amit on 27-Jul-2014 at 10:22 AM

 

Yes My friend Amit,we should start the same thing..Lets us drive out those Manipuris from each and every states..These people have been eating our jobs in Metro cities...ok,This is for sanatombi-isn't this a globalisation era??? Do we Non-Manipuri forcefully buy/owe land from you??? Isn't there thousands of Manipuri settel outside ur state,in there owned land??? And yes,this ILP is for a particular community,your people just seek easy money...Manipur is and always will be an undevelope state in India...and it shows the bad mirror to our whole NE states...continue with ur agitation,we will follow u,to implement ILPs in ours state too.

Posted by Abhi sharma on 27-Jul-2014 at 10:46 AM

 

@ Sanatombi, I appreciate your concern in preserving our beloved land,unique identity and culture. But you got it wrong here. Introducing ILP will not solve the problem. It will only serve the interest of the evil elements of certain sections of the society. Unless we learn to develop Cultural tolerance we will be left behind. How long do we intend to live in isolation from the rest of the country? We speak of racial discrimination in Cities outside Manipur but we're no less better. Living in isolation will only jncrease the regional imbalance. Isn't it time we come out of our cocoon and learn from other developing states? Your article may earn you some brownie points here in Manipur but your attitude has put all of us in a bad light. I understand exactly how your online friend must have felt about us. The union Government on 5th Dec 2013 rejected the demand for introduction of ILP in Meghalaya. The Home Ministry conveyed it was bound by Article 19 of the constitution which allows any Indian citizen to move freely throughout the territory of the Country. What hope do we have in implementing ILP? We will be better off by concentrating our energy towards other activities like reforming education system, Land acquisition laws and cultural development programs rather than blindly protesting and involving innocent students. Time to wake up!

Posted by #Concern Citizen on 27-Jul-2014 at 11:07 AM

 

Why asking introduction of ILP? Istead asked for revoking ILP cos it is already here during 60s, when , why and who lifted i don't know. We hill people still enforce and practice still now.

Posted by Kol Sempao on 27-Jul-2014 at 03:33 PM

 

@Abhis Sharma aka .... aka jemjem aka amit aka ....who told u ILP will be stumbling Block for outside investors?Don't post half knowledge,concocted,imaginary theories to mislead the people.Educate yourself before writing on any issues otherwise your hollowness will be exposed.Your comments revealed that you people know nothing on the plight of other NE states where ILP is enforcing.Do home work first.I will take up one small example to prove wrong on your contention that ILP prevent outside investment.Sikkim ,I think you may heard of this state,is a state where ILP is enforcing.Some portion of the state adjoining China are restricted and protected areas.You people know national and international companies are investing in hydroelectric projects,Teesta projects stage 1 to 4 are developing in sikkim.The stage 4 alone have the capacity of 1200MW which is 2nd largest project in India,if it is commission.

 

Teesta Urja,Gati infra,Neepco,NHPC are all working with promoters /developers include company from foreign countries.Apart from that Pharmaceutical companies like Cipla,Alkem etc have their manufacturing center in this state.Local wine liquor,beers ,India made foreign liquors ,manufacturing factories stay in this state.Besides, in tourism sectors too restaurants,cabs,lodging,other services are providing by non sikkimese .These are small examples to prove that ILP don't prevent outside investors.Again foreign and domestic tourists keep flowing throughout the year with visa on arrival and ILP permit issued without restrictions,but only to regulate and monitor the outsiders entry.Outsiders students studying in Manipal Tech institutions /ELAM universities etc.outsiders are working in Maanipal federal hospitals and other institutions.

 

Mainland traders and businessmen are doing their business.However those who are not State subjects are not entitled for voting rights,not allow to settle down,not get government jobs,not allow to purchase land,which protected the sikkimese aboriginal people.The same imply to other states too.I am just giving a Subjective and instructive example because classical examples will not go down well in your upper faculty,as I can anticipated from your comments.No hard feelings please.This truth may embarass you people because your sole intention was to assimilate aboriginals of Manipur with Aryan origin in due course of time thereby obliterate our identify from this earth since you are descendants of Arjun of Mahabharata.For God's sake please leave this issue to Manipuris alone.You Miyancha has no business here.

Posted by Ibochou on 27-Jul-2014 at 06:18 PM

 

what kind of language is this? either write in proper English or Meiteilon.

Posted by leima on 27-Jul-2014 at 06:42 PM

 

This is why I m truly shamed of being Manipuri. Bunch of cowards cowardice blah blah when they can't control their own family. Blaming their neighbors is their habbit. This is not democratic movement. Open up ur minds bros and sis, we're living on the same planet. Everyone has the right to live anywhere if they are worthy. If you wanna protect ur culture there are a lot ways to that. INP is the shortcut you think you found but that is wrong. Your shortcut shamed us. I m telling you this again and again, stop this cowardice.

Posted by Axxo on 27-Jul-2014 at 06:56 PM

 

Nice article! It is important to inform the public in this kind of emergency solution. It is not surprising though some people are talking about language like they are some PhD holders in English [Mathi fao khange!] Leave those hopeless puritans. But the issue is that we have to safeguard our own land. Amit & Co. must be some frustrated and useless Mayang who can do nothing but babble here. We are together for ILP! [Another moron cannot even say it properly INP - wtf is that?] The government must listen to the people's voice. Implement the system urgently! Haiyoom sidaba.

Posted by Khomba on 27-Jul-2014 at 07:41 PM

 

It is pursuasive and straightforward piece of work from sister Sanatombi.we may be apprehensive about the modus operandi of the ongoing ILPS movement but the demand per se is of utmost importance and a necessity also.unfortunatly,due to lack of publicity and hence awareness,its been misconstrued as a demand either to expatriate the nonmanipuris or to deny access to the state,we need to clear these misplaced thoughts.further we need to ask a few quetions to ourselves to clarify the utility and feasibility of the ILPS,even though we are guranteed by the constitution to move and travel and settle anywhere,can we really enjoy or is it really safegurd us?of course not.one may argue that so many manipuris are settle or live in other states.but where? and how much in terms of number and penetration?can we go door door to like the non locals doing right in our villages.again it may be put to question that the nonlocals are laborious than us.but its is not only laboriosness but also uncontrolled population due to lackadisical effort of family planning in the larger states.just imagine how there is such an alienating forces even in metros? everybody knows how large is our state.it s just like a district of a larger state,but such a tiny area of indian state is where we can be ourselves,whre we can preserve our culture.is this isolation?or does it goes against the multi culturalism ethics?or against the spirit of constitution? we are far lesser in number,economic clout,and politcal influence that a compltele cultural and demographic intercourse can dissolve whatever we have.then how will identify ourselves.here one possibility is if we can transform ourselves like the the most influntial Parsis.

 

Howesver it is not realistic.is this paranoidic,xenophobic,or ailing from inferiority complex?then are we superior in any way than the other ILP staates? if so in what ways?and by corollary are we better ably equipped to compete in every ecosystem with the outsiders,by this it doesnt mean ilps is a panacea for all the ills but it will be a major step which can regulate the .unchecked influx from anywhre.there needs to be some balance.we have to be secure ourselves not to become a second tripura.only then our future generation can feel secure and it will help healing ifestation of the millitancy.after that we can considerer other aspects of development.of course we need to be safe,we caanot compare ourselves more established societies.a little digression,just remember to get one and only historical Kangla how many years and how extreme forms of demonstrations needed while the great no. of rajput forts,dravidian and chola and etc etc attract protcttion and preservation not only by there architectural magnificence but histerical significance.is kangla less important?this is an example how the marginalised can face the imbalance and inequity in all terms until we reched a certain extent of maturirty and ability to stand ourselvesa in the face of greater forces.we seem to forget a capitalist like ambani have the ability to purchase whole of manipur!and thats why so many special clauses are inserted in the constitution to preserve the weaker sections and minorities. someone here expressed having a good doubt linking investment with ilps ipmlementation.then how many investments have so fer received without ilps in the last so many years.and why is it not possible to have special provisions for investments to attract under ilps .it is quite irrational to believe that settling by migrants to the extent of succeeding our little population would be any meaningful investment.ilps is neither xenophobic nor ultravires.example is our neighbours.only it needs courage to project the matter in a positive way to win support from all citizens.if its hazardous and unethical to involve the young students then let us devise it in other peaceful ways.lets write in national dailies.but it is not helpful being a cynic.

Posted by wecandoit on 27-Jul-2014 at 08:12 PM

 

@ibochou...what is wrong wid u? Ur analysis is totally wrong. U chose sikkim?..for ur example? i request the readers to pl read up on sikkims economy aftr reading dis.sikkim is a tourist haven.the ppl r friendly n welcoming. And in manipur, we hav YOU!! A tyre burning,racist,economics wizard..screaming.."mayang..mayang"..n reading my comment wid his eyes pooping out in his super fast p4 desktop n superfast internet. how can u say dat all the above mentioned investors will invest in manipur? If they didnt invest before ..why will they come n invest after ILP is invoked? Investors look for investment friendly regions to invest.Not a land wid ppl lik YOU!!! wat a donkey! Sikkim..sikkim. investors are lining up at mizoram n nagaland,yes?

Posted by jemjem on 27-Jul-2014 at 08:52 PM

 

Just as Bishnupuria meiteis who are bengali descendants claimed their rights as Meiteis with time. we the mainlanders can also follow through this way as a manipuri, because we are Indians. we are born and brought up in Manipur. friends! Please use sense in your thinking. As Indians we should embrace one another and have close interactions to share our oneness through cultures, traditions exchange etc. Even inter caste marriage can be encouraged as this will bond our wholeness spirit and build a strong nation. ILP is not the solution, why do you want a separate Act? Indian constitution under Article 19 has allow every indian citizen to move freely around the country. please stop this Stupidity and selfishness.

Posted by Ramesh on 27-Jul-2014 at 09:02 PM

 

I really appreciate Sanatombi’s article. The Indo-Pak war in 1970s led to the migration of huge amount of Bangladeshi refugees in Burma, Tripura, Assam and Manipur which totally changed its politics within few years. The influx of illegal migrants from Bangladesh, Burma and India has been continuing .We should stand together against such demographic invasion. ILP is not only to check the immigrant but also to register any outsiders entering Manipur. Tripura, Assam and Sikkim are the living examples of how migrants devour the indigenous populations. Manipur cannot be treated like other Indian States. We should remember how our government in 1947-49 was concerned for the implementation of visa system for the outsiders for entering the state. In the 19th century also the royal government of Manipur had an office at Lakhimpur which issued visa to the foreigners entering Manipur. [I guess even Jawaharlal Nehru and Rabindranath Tagore didn’t get visa to enter Manipur]. 

 

Although this system was completely independent of Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1874, we should look from that point of history. Now the immigrant issue becomes more serious with the opening of borders. The indigenous populations will disappear in few years with the opening of Trans Asian highways and railway in the state. The puppet government in Manipur cannot take any remarkable step means the influx of immigrant in Manipur is political in nature. We cannot simply treat it as mere influx but it has the nature of ethnic genocide. We should stand together against such Government sponsored demographic invasions. I wonder some of the casual opportunist Manipuris are showing reckless to the issue with baseless arguments. Listen, @ Axxo Naturally people are dynamic. They migrated from one place to another for better life. “We’re living on the same planet” is true but it is also true that we cannot visit any place in the planet without a stamp called visa…. "Let’s raise our voice to implement the ILP system in Manipur."

Posted by Wangam Somorjitsana on 27-Jul-2014 at 09:19 PM

 

@ Ibochou : You don't require ILP to go to sikim except for northen sikim because of the sensitive nature of the international border with china. Same thing applies to Ladakh also but now except some border areas ILP is withdrawn from ladakh for indians. @sanatombi : Iche sanatombi you have shown your class and intellect here.The population of parsi community is 69000 only and surviving the so called and dreaded onslaught by mayangs in a city like mumbai for centuries. Have you heard of Darwin? His survival of the fittest theory if you want to defy then why stop at ILP! ask for a reserve forest for manipuris like Jarawas or sentineles in andaman. My request is convince general jadumani to demand for a first reserve forest status for humans of manipur.

Posted by cupid on 27-Jul-2014 at 09:36 PM

 

@Ibochouba,It seems that u never have been out of ur Hut..sikkim does't has ILP system..And for ur kind ioformation PAP is not for we Indians...It is because of the chinese Line of control,connected to that particular area...since i a govt.servant,been to almost all the states in India...but none is corrupted as Manipur,u are drown in corruption,at the same time i Also Admit of my state corrupt too,but see the difference.U have nothing,expect spreading venom.

Posted by Abhi sharma on 27-Jul-2014 at 09:50 PM

 

Axxo Now you feel ashame to be a Manipuri,because there is a nationality to your bearing whether you like it or not ,a time may come for your descendants that nothing left for them to say ashame of.You moron got my point.If you are ashamed to say you are son of your mother then take anyone 's mother's name who are beauty,wealthy,powerful.Kick out your mom...you will not understand what is saying here,you may be wondering..ha ha ha...

Posted by @Axxo on 27-Jul-2014 at 10:14 PM

 

mieteis u ppl r not fit to led manipur...

Posted by neps on 27-Jul-2014 at 10:38 PM

 

@ Ramesh Article 19 (I) (d) and (e) gives freedom any citizens of India to move freely but it doesn’t give free right. I hope you are aware of article 19 (5) which provides that “ Nothing in sub clauses (d) and (e) of the said clause shall affect the operation of any existing law in so far as it imposes, or prevent the State from making any law imposing, reasonable restrictions on the exercise of any of the rights conferred by the said sub clauses either in the interests of the general public or for the protection of the interests of any Scheduled Tribe”. For the interest of the indigenous populations the Govt. should implement ILP under Article 10 (5) for restricting entry of outsiders to Manipur.

Posted by Wangam Somorjitsana on 27-Jul-2014 at 10:53 PM

 

Go for protest sittings at your local MLAs' residential gates. Never vote for anyone who don't consider ILPS serious. Start right from today. Start campaigning today. It's a matter of our own survival. Whatever our elected members decided is our decision coz they represent us legally in the eyes of everyone. So none can stop them. Go protest to your local MLAs. ILPS or No Vote! Let them take the decision.

Posted by xyz on 27-Jul-2014 at 11:14 PM

 

@Cupid@Abhi Sharma,again you show your hollowness and incomplete knowledge.Don't misled the readers with your hollow knowledge ,if you didn't know about the subject you admit it ,but don't bluff.Even if you bluff ,educated person will google search the tourism deptt.contact numbers and can confirm whether ILP system enforce in Sikkim or not.If you touch Sikkim you will find a place called Rangpo,Ok there the outsiders have to obtain ILP before entering sikkim.Sometimes there happens some mistaken identity that ppl from NE was mistaken as Sikkimist /NepaleseSikkimese police didn't ask for pass,but very cases.Whatever I wrote in my comments is after confirmation,not assumption or hearsay as you ppl do.check your facts.@Jemjem,I thought that you are a one who can be interactedd but I found that your upper faculty is not to working normally ,my reference of Sikkim is just to proof that ILP doesn't in any way prevent outsiders from investment,from entering,from staying,or doing business in that state,which I had mentioned repeatedly.I am not discussing the congenial and favorable factors for investment by outsiders in a state.That subject is a separate issue.Now your upper faculty can understand,got my point?I didn't think you can understand so easily.Now if you really get my point then tell,who is the real donkey?Sometimes I wonder how these ppl with hollow knowledge and even can't come to a logical conclusion started posting comments on such sensitive issues without having enough knowledge to substantiate their line of argument.Absurd!!!

Posted by Ibochou on 27-Jul-2014 at 11:24 PM

 

@ibochou.apologies for my harsh comments.i lost my cool.but after some deliberation i realised now dat u firmly believ in wat u profess. it is gud to debate on topics as sensitive as dis..as the consequence mite b critical fr several sections of society. as we can all see..this article has generated a lot of interest..we need to put it to gud use. my concern is dis. 

 

1.the issue of ILPS mite hav been raked up by vested interest. 2.since ILPS is a very sensitive issue,various political groups can spin it in anyway they want n da conservative sections of civil society will obviously support it n in da process..unfortunate incidents can take place. 3.the use of young students can result in casualties..even lost of young innocent lives.. 4.the vested interest can easily use dese deaths as an excuse to further the protest..even tho it was them who forced da students in da line of fire. 5.as our society already has hatred for the 'mayangs'..historical n cuz of afspa..they become easy targets. 6.the argument that ILP is a panacea fr manipurs problem is wrong. 7.assuming dat ILPS actually works..n saves manipur from being "overrun" by outsiders..n prevents it frm becoming another tripura..who will really benifit? 8.isnt it a gud thing fr outsiders to come n assimilate wid our culture..isnt dat growth?i met a sardar in dwarka,delhi..at a shop n he approached me n spoke to me in manipuri.. gave me great pleasure to hear him speak in flawless manipuri..in delhi..n he said he ws frm manipur. imagine dat.i felt proud..but here..we r screaming"mayang mayang" 9.it seems like anyone doubting da effectiveness of the ILPS demand is branded anti national...very similar to the mentality dat anyone not supporting Indian cricket team is anti national..or unpatriotic. 10.the incident is starting to look more like the MNS n shiv sena marathi movement..hence my apprehensions. 11.advocates of ILPS are getting more vocal..n therefore ready to pay any price..which scares me.no amount of debate can make them take a step back..n think. 12.the love for motherland is begining to be equated wid the hate for outsiders..a dangerous trend. 

 

@ibochou n everyone reading dis comment.it mite luk cool n patriotic n feel rt to be vocal abt ILPS..but if u put urself in the others shoe n imagine..isnt it scary..especially if u had made manipur ur home... well..i hav many more points to discuss but wil keep it fr later.. @abhi sharma..u sud share ur apprehension abt ILPS ..it will help us a lot.

Posted by jemjem on 28-Jul-2014 at 12:51 AM

 

@wangam somorjitsana, Please read over to understand properly. The Article 19 clause(5) has clearly define regarding the sub clauses of (d) & (e) of clause (1). If we go by the language used in it, it is quite noticeable that words such as any existing Law. This means any such Law must be currently in operation. Further Following line says reasonable restrictions to serve the interests of the general public, here again, we too belong as the General public, we have been residing in Manipur for many years. Protection of the interest of the schedule tribe, cannot be inclusive since Manipur is a land of various communities consisting of Muslims, Meiteis, Nepalese, tribals and Mayangs(a discord reference you love to call us) who are now making Manipur as their home, possessing lands and well establish business. Please put your sense in place, we cannot divide the nation in a myopic promotion.

Posted by Ramesh on 28-Jul-2014 at 01:08 AM

 

@ibochou..n yes,one more thing..in most of da comments posted..they seem to think dat all outsiders r in cahoot to overrun manipur. that it is der masterplan to b da majority in 10-20yrs in manipur by migrating in large nos. pl let the readers know dat it is not so. or am i mistaken here? Is der a grand scheme? if der is no such scheme...den it is likely that they r also jus ppl trying to look fr a way to survive..victim of economic circumstances..jus like everyone else.NOT the villians.

Posted by jemjem on 28-Jul-2014 at 01:29 AM

 

do we think india is a democracy country? yes y not than you can settle down anywhere,anyplace .think of ur family,fren,brotrs hu are staying outside.do they realy sopprt ILP in manipur.........MERITS N DEMERITS????????????????????

Posted by thanyui on 28-Jul-2014 at 07:30 AM

 

@Jemjem ,ur apologetic sense is appreciatedLook brother there r only two options b4 us.We have to adopt either of the two.Yes for ILP or No.If we consider NO,then we the Meeteis,(Our fellows hill area are already protected by statute)whose population nearly 15 lacs(lets say)only concentrated in small size imphal valley ,will be vulnerable to influxion on alarming proportion of migrants estimated to somewhere 5lacs.(1/3are immigrants).The proportion is so alarming,one has to accept the reality.(I too have many mainland friends,since I work in central government deppt.)However,if we,our generation,didn't wake up to the occasion,and do something to check the mass exodus,surely a time may come that the situation is out of hand,and we have little to do,that may cost dearly to our community.The ILP movement is nothing personal to someone ,say to Mr.X,Y or Z.The ILP is not unconstitutional,it is implementing in other NE states,too.A small population like Our greatly necessitates ILP to safeguard ourselves against the vast numbers of Indian population surging for 2billion.There is nothing anti Mayang,or against any particular community or individual,on ILP demand.I strongly feel ,drawn from all practical purpose,that it doesn't in any way prevent outsiders to land in our state for any purpose,for definite period of time,as required,but not settle down permanently,owning lands.I have stay and seen Nagaland,Tripura,Sikkim,Assam,and other mainland states (during course of my posting) and logically conclude that protectionists policy like ILP ,is very much necessary in Manipur ,for survival of Meetei,one may agree it or not. .....Again if we consider the option of Yes to ILP,then it is the only way we can protect and preserve our identity,against the present trends of influxion and lethargic attitude of Meeteis in general.I too have many "Mayang"friends ,I love some of them,but safeguarding our community is more important,and my love to them does not diluted .Nothing personal about it.There are some immature comments above who cannot even understand well on what is expressing in the write up of sanatombi.

Posted by Ibochou on 28-Jul-2014 at 08:59 AM

 

@ Ramesh…. I am highlighting Art. 19 (5) again “nothing shall prevent the State from making any law with reasonable restrictions in the interests of the general public.” So, implementation of ILP is constitutional. Whether the State should be read as Union of India or the ’state’ is questionable since the Union Minister Shinde very confusedly said that it is purely a state subject. Here the ‘general public’ can read as the people of Manipur…. you should be clear that people of Manipur means Meetei and all the indigenous tribes, not those outsiders ( mayangs/ Nepalese) who came to devour the original population after the abolition of the permit system or visa system in 1950…. You much have been aware of the ongoing public movement for the implementation of ILP which led to the closing of all the school/ college till today… this is a general public movement…..

Posted by Wangam Somorjitsana on 28-Jul-2014 at 10:10 AM

 

ILPS, inner line permit system is an important TOPIC for debate and discussion by one and all who considered themselves as indigenous tribe/people.In today's political scenario around the world,in particular well within the INDIA,to preserved and conserved the rich heritage of one's regional culture,language,tradition,political ideology,land resourse and integrity and demography is the sole and birth right of every individual of that particular region/state.we know nation building is ongoing process and a large subcontinent type nation like INDIA must deal with regional aspirations like (ILPS)through democratic negotiation rather than suppression.Regions together form the NATION,so regions must have a share in deciding the destiny of the NATION,if not the feeling of injustice and alienation can spread which in turned will go for secessionist movement.Regional imbalance in economic and development is a fact of INDIA'S growth story.

 

At the same time MANIPUR,TRIPURA and KHASI HILLS of MEGHALAYA were erstwhile princely STATE which mearged with india after independence.the economy of the entire NE regions were badly affected and distorted,and most of the regions underwent mojor demography changes mostly due to large scale influx of migrants and immigrants from other states and countries.in this situatin,regional aspiration is not an abnormal phenomenon.lastly,let us accepted that NE regions shares boundaries with CHINA,MYANMAR,BANGLADESH unlike other state of india and there is a great tendency of massive influx of immigrants.again,half the world's population growth occurs in just 06 countries china,bangladesh,pakistant,india,(Indonesia and Nigeria)out of these 06,our NE has been surrounded by three most populous country.as we know,poverty and state's economy are somehow correlated with large scale migration and is a matter of serious concerned for one and all to our core values of our existence.India is a large nation with huge number of large communities but the phenomenon of engulfing small fish by large fish will not be accepted, we know what to do and we will fight with tooth and nail for this common cause.influx really endangered the question of encroaching on our scare resources like land and there will be a serious threats to the employment opportunities to the indigenous tribals which still grappled with a tremendous amount of unemployment,next political power,very important factor to decide the future of our next generation.with these large current influx of migrants will reduce the indigenous MANIPURIS into a minority.so,in near future or next state assembly election you will see 30 seats will be occupied by the outsiders,you will be rule by outsiders at your own state till the time that you came to realized once we were under the colonial imperor of british,history repeat itself but this time we will not let it happened.so wake up my dear @Ramesh @jemjem and other stumbling blocks.ILPS is our sole right,when it happened to ARUNACHAL PRADESH, NAGALAND,SIkkim why not in MANIPUR.we respect every individual,but try to understand it is our sole and birth right in which we could stand at our own feet.....thank you all.

Posted by IROM on 28-Jul-2014 at 10:54 AM

 

@ibochou..thank you,i understand the logic behind the demand fr ILP. Everyone wants to contribute towards da preservation n continuity our culture. it is the method dat is in question here..becoz of the consequences involved in da equation. i feel that someone sud clealy address the concerns of da nay group. history is filled wid such moments..everywher in da world.we r not the first ..nor will b the last. if we read up on what happened to those movements..it wil b helpful. can u please address my corcerns..point by point..if possible. @all the proILPS readers. if all these apprehensions can b laid to rest..i firmly believ dat the demand fr ILPS will b stronger..n justified.

Posted by jemjem on 28-Jul-2014 at 11:04 AM

 

@jemjem,I can tell u only one thing to you.There are two types of persons,1.those person who always try to do things (read positive things)in one pretext or other 2)those person who always try not to do things in one pretext or other.Similarly....There are thousand ways not to do ILP,same time, there are thousand ways to do ILP,which way you go? The answer is yours to decide.If you have decided to do,then one doesn't necessarily need to accommodate all thousand ways of Opposite(not to do).Otherwise you can't take a decision and become a confused person.

Posted by Ibochou on 28-Jul-2014 at 11:51 AM 

 

 

Chaobinism: Defying Chauvinism

In our society most of the rules are formed, deformed and again reformed by the male lots. It’s always a Thoiba, Tomba or Chaoba’s world. For a Thoibi, Tombi or Chaobi, it’s a different tale to tell. In quite a devilling Hindu style, the bigger gender says, ‘Nupigi punsidi paap mayaamna yomaga poklakpani’. I ghastly wonder how those religious pundits ever dare to come to such a conclusion. How dare they!

Man-tastic chauvinism is a social trend that’s been observed for all these decades in almost every society including ours. Hence, a Thoiba, Chaoba or Tomba is metaphorically considered as a mani matum for his parents whereas a Chaobi or Tombi is — for the want of an appropriate word — a leibaak leituum? I have always been emotionally offended by such a mindset ever since I was a kid. I am still emotionally offended by such a thaak-nemba mindset. On moral or immoral grounds, when a son makes a mistake it’s ngaosinaba but if a daughter does, it becomes a great concern not just for the family but also for the entire saagei-naatei and keiroi-leikai.

World Cup for the Men and Beyond

In various cases, daughters are expelled to have their share of fun. To cite a simple example, hanging out somewhere or watching football or any game late in the night with friends would be unimaginable, if not it is odd or disgraceful for a girl. However, the same is a matter of ‘nupa thokpa’, a time for great celebration for the male lots.

I have in fact grown up in one such leikai where guys in groups enjoy late night football or any match over pegs of local booze and nganu/yen/oak thongba for maarinaba. I do not intend to culture a similar habit. But I would encourage the idea of a few leikai friends or even cousins hanging out together for a football match. Why should boys/guys have all the fun? This has been a major concern for me; not that it’s a matter of animosity towards the male lots.

Well, this would hopefully be the last time I would ever get a chance to watch World Cup leisurely from the comfort of my home. I know not how my nupamayum would be like but am damn sure no family would entertain their ‘mamou nupi’ watching football late in the night and waking up late in the morning. So that’s it?
Marriage, at least to me, seems like an artificial sterilization of a relation that is forged and forced to maintain for the rest of your life with some special clauses for the bride such as: ‘Thou shall abandon all the pre-marital hobbies. Thou shall adhere to the rules of waking up earlier than the morning birds. Thou shall under any circumstance fulfil the duties abound with the awunpot of thy luhongba’.

Gawd! I am already getting sick of these things already. I wonder if I would be able to religiously follow them all. Or should I start thinking about empowering ‘Chaobinism’?

Of Chaobinism and the Wind of Change

Earlier, the norm was set like this: the son has to earn while the daughter has to run the home. But things have changed over the years. Daughters not only run but also earn for the family. I know many friends and acquaintances, who financially support their families and at the same time run all the household errands. The rising number of such women and daughters, in my opinion, is a clear sign of progress, rather than a reply to the inflated mindset of man-tastic chauvinism in our society.

I have also come across many brave and courageous ladies who have misspelled the myth that ‘Nupa dangna paangal thokpa thabak touba ngami’. Consider the rise of Mary Kom, for instance. History is also the sole witness when it comes to the thouna-lingjel of Manipuri ladies. It would not be an exaggeration to state that the hand that once rocked the cradle also cracks many a rock just to support her family. Of late, the rising number of working ladies in both public and private sectors is more or less an implication that we have finally come out of the cocoon to face the world and pave our own ways.

Yes, it’s a clear sign of positive change. It’s the gradual phase of ‘Chaobinism’ defying chauvinism that has been rooted on our mindset for all these years and decades. The dictionary would never have a right place for ‘Chaobinism’ but who cares? We are ready with the change though we know male chauvinism will prevail as always. We are going with the flow of the times that are changing. No matter what, it is as much a Thoibi or Chaobi’s world as much as it’s a Thoiba or Chaoba’s world.

This article was published on 15 June 2014.

Lucrative Job Openings for All & Sundry!

Who says there is a dearth of job opportunities in our state? There are many consultancies that have been providing employment for the job seekers. Earlier, there was a trend of networking through which many individuals became lakhpati or crorepati within a few months. At present, there are many emerging consultancies who promise employment opportunities to a wide range of job seekers from the state.

Under the aegis of Thok-Mok Job Consultancy Services, the following posts are currently available for various candidates from different walks of life. Thok-Mok Job Consultancy Services is one of the (non-existing) consultants based in Imphal. Successfully training and recruiting various thou-leitabagi thou thibada waaraba lots in our society, TMMJCS is expanding its wing across the state in due interest of culturing an anti- tangdu-leitaba khunai.

Thouleitabamayum Maloti, H.R Manager TMMJCS, states “We want to contribute our bit in providing employment opportunities to various job seekers across the state. We currently have job openings for some profiles. I am sure many job seekers will be excited about these openings”.

As per the official notice from TMMJCS, the following posts are currently available.

1. Name of post - Moral Police Executive (M.P.E)
Number of vacancies to recruit- 50 & more

Roles and responsibilities

• The M.P.E will be solely and strictly responsible to take part in various moral policing activities that are currently becoming a trend in our society. The main role of an M.P.E is to instruct and direct his or her sub-ordinates in various restaurant drives that are continuously conducted across the city. The job profile for an M.P.E will be suitable for those who love meddling up with everyone or anyone’s affairs.

Educational Qualification

• Should be a B.A/M.A but prefer those who have completed or are pursuing their Phd in Moral Science

Work Experience

• At least five years experience of participation in various restaurant drives across the city.
• Ahei apaa saaba candidates who have an incorrigible attitude can also apply.

Communication skill

• Should be good in rowdy and hoarse communicative skill.
• Fresher(s) who are open to learn ‘khonda haotaba’ will also be considered. Training will be provided by various lai-hori and chinganba/bi trainers.

2. Name of the post - Mob Justice Executive Officer (M.J.E.O)
Number of vacancies to recruit- 100 & more (if situation demands)

Roles and responsibilities

• The M.J.E.O will be fully responsible to organize a roaring maddening crowd during an unwanted incident. S/he should have the ability to mis/lead the crowd and mis/guide them to execute various un/wanted actions that include destroying the house of the culprit of any XYZ crime, beating up the culprit black and blue etc. Candidates who have experience in leikaigi mee-funaba will also be given a chance to hold such a challenging post.

Educational Qualification

• Preferably M.A.B.Fs (Matric Appeared But Failed). Since this job profile does not require much logical thinking or judgement, higher educational qualification is not necessary for the candidate. Those who have “I can do it” attitude are eligible to apply for the post.

Work Experience

• 2-3 years experience as Urao-Tharao Laoba Commander on high-school or college level.

Form submission, interview & miscellaneous

Forms are currently available at the office of TMMJCS for the above mentioned job openings. Please note that there won’t be any last date of form submission for the above posts. The recruitment for M.P.E and M.J.E.O will also be held throughout the year. As for the interview, the candidate can turn up at our office everyday between 9 A.M and 9 P.M. We provide a flexible timing for all the candidates and that’s one of our USPs.

This article was published on 13 July 2014

 

Bridging the Personal & Professional: Entrepreneurship in Manipur

To decide and to organise a business venture of your own and to bear all the associated risks with it, in my opinion, requires proper planning, dedication and a go-getting attitude. Money really talks. But in my humble opinion, entrepreneurship is not just about money. It is also about pursuing our cherished dream in a professional manner.

For a sarkargi job, money of course matters. So, you want to crack MPSC exam? Have you arranged for lupa 30–40 lakh? So, you want to apply for the post of SI, have you arranged for 10–15 lakh? Such is the norm that goes on in our state. But there is nothing to be proud about it.

In a land like Manipur where unemployment problem breeds like mosquitoes in a filthy nala, I consider entrepreneurship as one of the probable solutions. The challenges of entrepreneurship are however of different types and nature.

Sometimes our own family would fail to understand what we love to do or want to do. Let me tell you a personalised example right from my family. My mom never understands what I do. In her opinion, I am wasting my time, money and energy investing on various activities that are apparently clueless as much as meaningless to her.

The same goes for my saagei-naatei and all the mari-mata under the sun. Ever since I passed my graduation, my relatives expect (read want) me to get a stable job at one of the sarkargi offices. Their understanding of a stable job is however beyond my good understanding. Some of them keep nagging me, “MCS kumba atei peikha gumba thajinlu yadro nangbu matam paamudro?” If I had 30 lakh, there is nothing to stop me from investing in some of the ideas that I have for my future ventures.

Alright, it’s not a shocking discovery that the value of an individual (as per the understanding of our society) is evaluated according to the post s/he holds in a particular government sector. For that matter, it is a matter of pride and prestige that is measured in the amount of money one can steal from the public exchequer. Such is the fate of our society.

I do not have anything personal against any of the government officials/employees but trust me I would be the last person on earth who is ever interested in a regular sarkargi thabak. I have never ever bothered to appear for any of the competitive exams so far (patting myself on the shoulder). Please excuse us, the opportunists, read optimists, who believe in changing from ‘inside’ the system.

Piles of files on the table, a cranky ceiling fan, giggles of ladies over gossips, the smell of bora-kanghou and the most important of them: marup houbi, fee yonbi and yengnabi among the staff — all these form the picture of a typical government office. To add, a file from one table to another takes days/weeks/months or even years depending on how much amount we are ready to pay the lazy clerks. A single signature that does not even take 10 seconds actually takes days, weeks or even months. It has nothing to do with thabak chinba or chindaba of the particular official. We know it why.

Like bones for doggies, it’s always money-money-and-only-money for the government officials. In quite a thou leitaba way, I wonder how they flaunt themselves as the educated lots when they have reduced themselves to a shameless breed of ‘ekai khangdaba siki anada choppa’ people. It is no surprising though, when their seniors and heads of the departments are leading the bandwagon.

Over the last few months — after I have decided to start standing on my own, doing my own stuff in Imphal — I have been familiarised that muscle and money are the only two things that matter if we are desperate to get something done.

The other power which is genuinely needed by us is altogether a different machal of discussion here. Amid the mess, it is quite a challenge for any individual to sow the seeds of entrepreneurship in a land like ours where many are ready to criticise and demoralise with the ‘oiroidabada or yaroidabada’ comments. Comments are free and the Manipuris just cannot ignore the free stuffs. Look at our government for instance, waiting for the freebies from New Delhi year in and year out.

But then again, as some of the pioneers of entrepreneurship have shown us, it is a lucrative career option to invest in our ideas, especially for those who have taken a daily dose of anti-corruption pills. The guild of entrepreneurs has taken root over the last few years, much thanks to technology and the energy of our generation. It is time to look ahead for empowerment. It is time for a wind of change in Manipur.

This article was published on 9 June 2014

An Appeal to the Mari Leinaba Authority

Mr. Natraang reporter from Sundrang News leaked this confidential news that reports how Mr. Load Shedder has been temporarily suspended from his assigned responsibilities at our leikai. As an immediate impact of his suspension, my entire leikai has been enjoying uninterrupted power supply for the last few days. You read it right- UNINTERRUPTED POWER SUPPLY for 24 hours. Sounds luxurious right?

Like the advent of a ‘Mangaal Fangba Era’, many families at my leikai have started getting used to such a privilege which is of course a fallacious treatment. The reason is obvious. The situation which will last only for a few days may prove to be another reason of depression for many individuals in the near future. Imagine a sudden transformation from a bright world to a dark one? Sounds scary right?

Considering all the negative impacts of (temporary) uninterrupted power supply, I hereby raise this complain to have a look at this matter as soon as possible. It is also a personal request from my end not to play with our emotions by providing such a facility which is meant only for the VVIPs and VIPs. We are not used to such a luxury, we in fact don’t want to get used to such luxuries that won’t last forever.

“The recent problem of uninterrupted power supply at our leikai is more or less an insult to the Moreh Lamps we have bought from Khwairambandh Keithel. I recently bought two lamps from the Keithel. I still haven’t got a chance to switch them on. If this problem persists for another week, we are going to form a JAC and submit a memorandum to the mari leinaba authority. We won’t keep quiet. I also personally extend my heartfelt sympathy for Ebungo Budhimambamayum Load Shedder, who has been honestly serving us for all these years. He should resume to his post without wasting any time”- states the Moreh Lamp Paibi Secretary of our leikai.

Well, I know not whether Mr. Load Shedder’s temporary suspension is a political/technical gimmick or not. However, in my earnest opinion, he should resume to his post as soon as possible in the due interest of all the families whose Moreh lamps have not been lighted for the last few days. We miss the dark nights, we miss relishing the taste of rice cooked in chafu. The rice cookers have been doing overtime duty for the last few days. I can already see a fatigued look on their faces.

My own family has some serious concerns regarding the situation. Mom finds it irritating when my brother watches movies on the television in the midnight. Addicted to the dark nights, she has sleeping disorders these days because of the light from the various corners of our home. I have come across similar complain from leikaigi eney-indols.

Dear mari leinaba authority, this is my earnest request to you that in the interest of every individual from our locality, please ensure to bring an immediate solution to such a problem. Also take up necessary actions to cancel the temporary suspension order of Mr. Load Shedder. He is such a sober guy who has been punctually and religiously adhering to his duties for all these years. I am sure our concern will be taken care of.

This article was published on 1 June 2014
 

An Open Letter to New Prime Minister of India

Mr Prime Minister-designate,

Kem cho? Mazaama?

I heartily congratulate you on becoming the new Prime Minister of India. As another era of the Congress Government comes to an end, the nation is looking forward to a complete Modi-fication of the so-called Indian nation from every perspective. I am sure your government will bring a revolution, again, in the nation.

I have stayed in Gujarat for three years. No other Indian state has ever impressed me the way your state does. You can, in fact, consider me as the brand ambassador of Gujarat (if it were a brand like the way you want to pamper the flamboyant corporate). Again, I have unforgettable memories about Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. The officials at Gandhinagar helped me and my friend to get our hostel admission. It would be a mammoth task to find officials like them in any of the sectors here in our state. Forget about the essentials, some people allege our education department is the most corrupt section. We have reasons not to refute it.

Well, in the arrival of a new political system at the centre, why would only our local government be hopeful about the impending funds and grants? I would not say I’m excited like the anti-Congress mass of the great Indian unwashed but I have a short list of complaints from my home state. Please make sure this list is not dumped in a dust bin like people would throw away those empty Styrofoam cups of teas.

To begin with, we do not have adequate power supply despite the fact that we have an enormous hydro-electricity plant. Even a five-year-old kid can explain about load shedding in a detailed manner. Electricity is a luxury that the majority of the population here cannot afford to have. The situation is worst during summer like nowadays. With just three hours power supply a day, it is quite an intolerable situation here. I wish you can do something about it — and we have lost our hope in the state government.

My next complain is about the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, or shortly, the AFSPA. I am sure you must be aware about it. It is one of the chief tools of Indian security system. Manipur has been living in the shadow of AFSPA for all these decades. Please imagine, if AFSPA were imposed in Gujarat because you share border with Pakistan, how would you feel about it? How would you feel if security personnel torture innocent Gujaratis simply because they suspect them as terrorists? It might be hard to even think about it, but that’s a sad truth that we have been compelled to undergo day in and day out. Sometimes we forget India has got independence 67 years ago, because you know, we have so many of these colonial stuffs.

It is encouraging in a sense. We do not have a leader like you here in Manipur. We do not have anyone who can stand up and speak out about such grievances that are continually faced by the hoi-polloi. Manipur has no doubt many name-sake leaders who are only interested in percentages. They do not have any sense of nationalism or belongingness to their state or to the nation. Please ensure to instil the same sense of patriotism that you have for Gujarat among our ministers.

As far as corruption is concerned, the price of a signature of any government official ranges from Rs. 200 to god knows the upper limit. I have personally been compelled to pay bribe to a few officials just for a few signatures. We have this habit of stealing from the public exchequer. These so called officials have reduced themselves to a shameless breed of morons who exploit the system as per their whims and fancies. I would not spare even my relatives or acquaintances who profess, practice and propagate corruption.

There is not a dearth of honest officers in the system. However, as the majority wins the vote, they cannot exercise their power. It does not matter even if you have received only 31 percent of the one billion votes. It’s quite a pathetic situation here. We desperately need a wind of change in the state.

I won’t ask you to sanction crores of rupees for the development of the region. The reason is obvious. Any sanctioned amount from the centre never reached or will reach the rightful recipients. I would refrain from citing Rajiv Gandhi’s view of one-paisa-to-the-needy example. The fact is that every fund always ends up in the personal accounts or pockets of ministers and their sub-ordinate offices or bureaucrats. A few of them even went to God-knows-how Russia. Please check the website of the Loktak development office that was created in Russian language in the name of a non-existing firm, if by chance you meet your technology officer who did a wonderful job during the last election campaign.

Well, I don’t want to bore you with the unnecessary details through this letter. I just need a few positive answers for a few questions — Can you promise us at least 10-hour power supply a day, if not 15 or 20? Can you promise us to repeal the draconian law like AFSPA? Please you can leave the other black laws; we will put up with them. Can you promise us a corruption-proof system? Can you promise a better education system for the next generation? Can you promise us a brand new Manipur?

Eagerly waiting for your reply.

Aawo Jo!
Regards,
A Depressed Manipuri
25 May 2014, Imphal East.

This article was published on 25 May 2014. The sworn-in/oath-taking ceremony of the new prime minister is scheduled on 26 May 2014.

“Nokminnasi”: A Humble Attempt to Revive Yesteryear’s Epom

“I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it’s the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It’s probably the most important thing in a person.”
— Audrey Hepburn

Laughter can be used to overcome challenges and enhance our lives. A playful communication to a great extent strengthens our relationships by triggering positive feelings and fostering emotional connection among us. A positive bond is easily created when we laugh together, regardless of the silliness of a joke! This bond further acts as a strong buffer for us against stress, disappointment, disagreements or other petty tit-bits of life.

Research studies have always shown that shared joke and laughter are one of the most effective tools for keeping relationships fresh and exciting. Sharing laughter adds joy, vitality and resilience. It is better to laugh out loud than to become the classic tight-jawed sourpuss who takes everything seriously and never laughs at anything. However, laughing alone is lesser fun. This has inspired me to come up with the theme of “Nokminnasi”, the first ever stand-up comedy show in Manipur. A first part of the series was recently held successfully at the MDU Hall a week ago.

The inspiration behind Nokminnasi

Back in the old days, Epom used to be one of the few means of entertainment for us. And it was indeed a level above the rest. I still have fond memories about watching Epom right in my leikai, but the cycle of time has drastically changed the landscape of entertainment in the neighbourhood.

I thoroughly enjoyed the satire in many of the Epom series. The inimitable legends like Mayang Imphal Tombi, Takhellembam Chaoba, and Oinam Babu, also popular as the ‘Yotsabi Makhong’ of Manipuri faagi used to rock the crowd in their best hilarious and comic ways. A particular Epom programme meant hours of laughter riot. Manipuri faagi had its hallmark during their days.

At present, the legacy of faagi has been passed on to some very gifted artistes. Faagi, at present, is still considered an important machal for any movie, leela or drama at present. Faagi is indeed an important mathel of our lives. Imagine a life sans faagi. It would be like a platter of nga-thongba sans salt eh?

Over the years, Epom has been seeing a gradual death especially after the demise of oja Tombi, Chaoba and Babu. Well, I cannot help appreciating Oja Ruhinikumar and his artistes for the Nokfade series, which can be considered as a replica of Epom for all these years and has kept back the charms of local humour and entertainment in this age of YouTubes and Vimeos.

In a society like ours where insurgency and social unrest set the norm, faagi should be an important part of our lives, not only to take a break but also to keep the mercury of sanity at a tolerable level.

“Nokminnasi” is a humble attempt to revive the delight of Epom with a contemporary touch. Also created as a platform for all the young comedians across the state to showcase their skill, “Nokminnasi” wants to reach out to each and every budding artistes who loves to culture Manipuri faagi in the truest, hilarious sense. If laughter is the best medicine, “Nokminnasi” is a complete dose.

Well, I was a little unsure to give a try in an unpredictable society like ours. So, I and my team organised the Nokminnasi Season One with a limited number of artistes while targeting a limited audience for the beginning. An overwhelming support and encouragement from the audience and artistes have encouraged us to present “Nokminnasi” to a larger audience.

Nokminnasi Season One showcased the skills of nine artistes namely. The masters of Manipuri humour got down in style—Pabung Manglem, Rajen, Joseph and Rangilal knew exactly what the audience expected from them. Then a crop of talented artistes including Herojit, Naobi, Raja, Ambika and Ajoy set the stage on fire with their ranging lights of humour. So now, we are trying our best to present Nokminnasi Season Two with a different flavour of faagi.

Auditions for Nokminnasi Season 2 are going to start in a few days. So, if you know any comedian in your keirol-leikai, emung-manung or saagei-naatei, please contact me personally. Let us keep up the spirit of ‘Epom’ in whatsoever way we can. Nokminnasi and we can work together to add more energy and happiness while unleashing all the frustrations from our lives.

This article was published on 27 April 2014

Yaoshang: A Fun-tastic Festival for All and Sundry!

“There are no lines in nature, only areas of colour, one against another.”
—Edouard Manet

It is that time of the year when Mother Nature puts on her best attire and showers her blessings around us.

Birds start singing happy songs of Yeningtha; meanwhile heiyai and chorpon ripen to dance on a plate with thoom, morok, thoiding and beson. With Mr. Summer queuing up near the seasonal door seeking admission for the next term, Yeningtha also marks the arrival of the most awaited festival of the year—Yaoshang.

The festival which is usually celebrated for five days mean unlimited fun and frolicking with friends and family relishing yummylicious achapot and dishes; and not to forget, the numberless hues and shades of colours in the air.

Manipur Masala presents ‘Yaoshang: A Fun-tastic festival for all and sundry!’

The origin of this festival is quite controversial. Nevertheless, it would not be fallacious to state that the varied versions about the origin of Yaoshang are as colourful as the festival itself.

The Hindunised version of Yaoshang marks the celebration of the birthday of Chaitanya Gouranga. As per the chronicles of Vaishnavism, it was on the purnima of Phalgun month that Chaitanya was born on the bank of the Ganga in Bengal. Phalgun month, which is the last month in the lunar almanac, in the Meitei belief, is Lamta.

In the Meiteinised version, Yaoshang marks the celebration of the birth of Nongda Lairen Pakhangba who was born at Kangla on the full moon of Lamta to Leimaren and Salailen Sidaba. Laimaren, on the birth day of Lord Pakhangba, had to stay at the Ya-wol-sung. The name ‘Yaoshang’, as per the Meitei belief, is thus a shortened form of the original ‘Ya-Wol-Sung’.

A bunch of charu-tied bamboo was burnt to announce the world about the birth of Lord Pakhangba at Kangla. And on the fifth day after the birth of Pakhangba, all the Gods went to Khwai Keithel to buy gifts to Salailen to congratulate him for his new mapari. ‘Lai Keithel Kaaba’ thus had its origin from that day.

Incidentally, the resulting product of these several terms, right from Chaitanya to Kiethel is covert intolerance in contemporary Manipur. We cannot deny there is a great sense of going back to our roots, which can be read as harsh criticism of anything that is related to the Hindu faith. But it is for the people to decide whether it is helping us or not. Maybe we can talk about it further on another fine Sunday.

Back again, my knowledge on the origin of Yaoshang may be limited. But my understanding is definitely not. Alright, let Yaoshang be a celebration of anyone’s birthday. What does that change? Should the old or new found knowledge mar the spirit of the festival? Should it rob our memory bank about the fun we had when we were kids? Should it stop our kids from having their share of fun at present? I doubt so. For a religious atheist like me, celebrating a festival should not be associated with any religious connotations. I am a Meitei by birth but I prefer not to associate myself with any ‘ism’ which would compel me to think like a ‘frog in a well’.

Well, earlier during our bubok and edhou’s time, Yaoshang meant simple celebrations during which cheng-insaang khainaduna chaak chanaba and thabal chongba at a sumaang or leikai lampak were the major attractions. The celebration of the festival has been transforming over the decades.

For the last three–four decades Yaoshang has been synonymous to five frolicking days of unlimited fun with friends and families. Sports and various entertainment programs are organized at the leikaigi club to commemorate Yaoshang for all these years.

With or without the sports, the festival, which is meant for all and sundry, is celebrated with a jovial spirit sans any bullshit that we come across in our day to day life. Yaoshang fever infects the rich and the poor.

Well, it’s time to take leave from our professional chores and catch up with friends and relatives whom we usually cannot catch up during the rest of the year. Let this Yaoshang be a flamboyant celebration for everyone. Wishing all of you a very happy, colourful and fun-tastic Yaoshang.

PS: Registration open for the various events and items on the next five days of Yaoshang celebration.

This article was published on 16 March 2014.

Fairen Diary: Of Blockade Phobia & Its Syndromes

Clarification In today’s paper edition of the Sangai Express, the headline has been retained in the column but it has the content of one of my previous articles. Inconvenience is regretted. -Manipur Masala, 23 Feb 2014
 
A troop of fairen thagi angaoba leichil had a disheartened retreat under the command of its leader Mr. Fairenjao. As reported by Ta Basanta, who is soon to arrive in a few weeks’ time, “Mr. Fairenjao, he wore such a dismayed look as we crisscrossed our ways. I had waved him ‘hi’ but he did not even bother to wish back.”

On introspection, it has been narrated that the sight of long queues at the petrol pumps, a few days ago, had discouraged Mr. Fairenjao and his troop of angaoba leichil high, very high up in the sky.

With the news of an impending blockade, khoiren-masha paiba was the immediate reaction among our people. The petrol pumps suddenly ran out of stock and inflation found its glorified meaning.  For a few days, every Manipuri queued up at the petrol pumps from early morning till late evening.

Afew social scientists conducted a thorough research on social behaviour recently. They have finally come up with the discovery of a new disease called a Blockade Phobia. The syndromes of this disease include:

- Inability to eat or sleep properly until and unless the petrol tank of one’s vehicles is filled up. The related syndrome includes waking up early in the morning and the urge to go and queue up at the nearest petrol pump from one’s leikai. Under certain cases, the patient may have a tendency to visit the same petrol pump in the evening to fill up gallons of petrol to stock up.
- Another serious syndrome often observed among patients of blockade phobia is the kick of petrolpeneurship. Petrolpeneurship is a newly coined termed, by the social leipoong scientist. It is defined as the sudden desire of becoming an entrepreneur by investing on gallons of petrol and selling the same at an inflated price.

Criticized as an unethical means of entrepreneurship, Mr. Achumba, the president of All Manipur Maram Mokpa Association spoke, “We should not waste even a single minute to cure all the patients of such disease. These patients, if not treated in time, can become a threat to many innovative businesses that are gradually evolving across the state. We need support from the sensible citizens of this khunai for a permanent treatment of such a disease”.

“The patients of blockade phobia and their oddities can have a disastrous impact on the impressionable young minds”, said Mr. Angaangjao.

He continued, “We should appeal to the concerned authority to come up with preventive measures to check this sandokanba leina as soon as possible”.

Meanwhile, Mr. Heipaasingba, the president of Heipaa Saajage Haiduna Houdokchaba Organization remarks, “There is an easy remedy to cure such a phobia. We should start adding ‘Blockade’ to the nomenclature—at least one member of our family can have the name. This way, we will get familiarized with Blockade in a more intimate way. This will ultimately help in erasing the general phobia of blockade”.

Citing an example he added further, “The expression ‘blockade laaktoure’ could have a double meaning; for example, Blockade laaktoure could mean a child called Blockade is returning from school as much as it could mean the possibility of an economic blockade to be imposed on any of the National Highways.”

Mr. Fairenjao has sternly condemned the disheartened retreat of his leichil troop. From rumours, he has reportedly told his band, “I need an answer from the Ministry of Seasonal Affairs for such an illogical act or else we will also call for a blockade in the sky of Manipur”. As per our Lei-Ngao Thi-Ngao reporter, AFSPA is likely to be imposed in the sky of Maninpur in order to put the situation under control. Jet fighters may soon arrive from mainland India.

Postscript: Dear Leibaakchasing, let’s try to sneeze out the insanity and insensibility for a change ‘haakthi’! Daylight robbery has become a sort of entrepreneurial skill. What else could be the reason for the scarcity of petrol just from the announcement of a highway blockade—mind it, not from the blockade but just from its announcement — regardless of its senselessness? When are the agitators in the hills ever going to understand that their blockades have never affected the government, but rather this kind of protest has been only torturing the general people?

Imphal Telanga Festival 2014 ― The Imagination of a New Vision!

“A kite is the last poem you’ve written / so you give it to the wind, / but you don’t let it go / until someone finds you / something else to do.” ― LEONARD COHEN

Today, the second day of February, we are going to celebrate the Telanga Festival 2014. All the roads lead to Dhobi Lampak in Kongba. For the first time in the history of Manipur, we are going to have a festival, independent of any political and religious crap.

A day might be too insufficient for such a gala yet we are making it special. Steal away a day from life’s mundane affairs. Indulge in fun-filled activities apart in addition to merry-making with your friends and families flying kites. This Telanga Festival is a celebration of life in a simple yet enticing way.

The festival has many surprises waiting for you. Unleash the creative juice in the innovative kite design contest. You do not have to be a kite expert but the passion is all you need for the kite making competition. If you are simply desperate for the fun to begin, we also have a kite fighting event. It is going to be a day of redefining fun.

More than the fun, the prospects of such a festival have been the guiding force. One, it entails the celebration of life in the most colourful ways like the varying shades of papers that we used in making kites. Two, it is a part of the holistic approach to re-energise the potentials of tourism in our hometown. It is only a humble beginning.

We don’t have big industries here but that should not be the end of the story. We can start with what we already have, howsoever little it is. We can make the most of our indigenous resources to promote tourism with such a festival. That’s the bigger picture we have got from tourism being an economic development tool.

The flight and the plight

Tourism, if we talk about it in Manipur, is so interlaced with the present living condition. Both in the hills and the valley, there are two obstacles that are glued to the society. First, the factor of fear and insecurity has been always a gatecrasher to any hope of a new beginning. Wonder how it would be if these issues fly away like a telanga atatpa! And second, it is more ironical that we would boast of the breathtaking natural places of tourist interest, but we don’t have the place for them to stay. The lack of infrastructure is simply heartbreaking. If only a fraction of the wealth that our ministers have plundered is invested in infrastructure, only time can tell what it can bring for us.

The problems will only make us more skeptical. For all the joys and happiness that we have lost in the existing social mess, we can try and compensate a bit in a day of fun-tastic fiesta of the Telanga Festival. We also believe in the days to come, such a kite festival can do wonders for tourism.

As much as the objectives are local, the Telanga Festival 2014 is a part of the personal endeavour.

From the home front

When I was in Delhi, I was quite reluctant about relocating back to Manipur and starting a venture of my own. I did not expect a bright career option in a state like ours where the bombs are cheaper than the yongchaak. ‘MCS thajinlu, TET peikha thajinlu, SSA gi oja oinaba hotnou,’ the list of suggestions — from elders and friends to pursue a career in Manipur — has been never ending. All those options appear to me like the mathel lukoi in a typical ushop of a birth celebration or a death anniversary. My friends would say those are like the items in a shop with specific price ranges. How much is it for the seat of a chief minister, by the way? 

Boarding a flight to Delhi had always been the easiest way to escape from the ennui that prevails in Imphal. I had in fact done that many a times. But then, it cannot be the only solution. This time, I wanted to test my patience. Hiyangei, Poinu and Waakching arrived and eventually left. And here comes Fairen. The past few months have been an unlearning phase for me about many things, from personal to the professional. I should take a short break now. I should fly a kite too.

Postscript The Telanga Festival 2014 will be held on 2nd February 2014 from 10AM to 5PM, at Dhobi Lampak, Kongba, Imphal East.


This article was published on 2 Feb 2014