May 7 2021

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 150

DIMAPUR, FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2021 Pages 8 ` 4.00

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India’s 1-day global Covid-19 record

4.12 Lakh new cases; over 3900 deaths on MAY 6 SC tells Govt to prepare for 3rd wave;

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): New coronavirus cases and deaths in India hit a record daily high with 4,12,262 new infections and 3,980 fatalities being reported, taking the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,10,77,410 and the death toll to 2,30,168, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 35,66,398 comprising 16.92 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has dropped to 81.99 per cent, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi are among 10 states that account for 72.19 per cent of the new COVID-19 cases reported in a day, the Union Health Ministry said on Thursday.

The ministry said that Karnataka,Kerala, Haryana, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu,

also ensure vaccination of children

Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan are among the other states in the list of 10.

Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 57,640. It is followed by Karnataka with 50,112 while Kerala reported 41,953 new cases.

Besides Maharashtra,

Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Jhakhand account for 75.55 per cent of the new deaths.

Maharashtra saw the maximum casualties (920).

Uttar Pradesh follows with 353 daily deaths.

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As experts have raised alarm that third wave of COVID-19 was inevitable and will affect children too, the Supreme Court on Thursday emphasising the need to prepare for the same including vaccinating people of age groups with young children.

A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah said that if preparations are made right away, we may be able to tackle the third wave for which scientific planning to vaccinate persons would be needed.

“The third surge in India which is around the corner according to experts will affect children. So when a child goes to hospital, the mother and father will also have to go. That is why vaccination will have to be over for this group of people.

We need to plan for this in a scientific way and thus make arrangement,” the court said.

“Today we have 1.5 lakh doctors who have finished medical course but waiting for NEET exam.

How do you tap them? 1.5 lakh doctors and 2.5 lakh nurses are sitting at home.

They will be crucial for third wave,” the court said.

The court was hearing an appeal filed by the Central government against the show cause notice for contempt issued against its officers by the Delhi High Court for failing to provide 700 MT of oxygen to Delhi as per Supreme Court order.

The bench war ned both Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Central government, and senior advocate Rahul Mehra, representing Delhi government, that the Supreme Court being the top Constitutional court of the country cannot be allowed to be a ground of recrimination.

international, Page 7

State currently has 1,16,890 Covid vaccine doses: Patton Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 6 (NPN): Nagaland had a stock of 1,16,890 doses of COVID19 vaccine as on Thursday and were distributed across the State through cold chain points, even as more consignments are expected to reach in the next few weeks Informing this to a section of media persons here on Thursday, deputy chief minister Y Patton said currently there were 613 Covid vaccination centres (CVCs) encompassing all district hospitals, community health centres, urban primary health centres, primary health centres, health & wellness centres and sub centres in the State.

After the launch of Covid vaccination in the State, he said 2,16,761 individuals have been covered so far in two phases, adding that the vaccines have been provided by the Central government free of cost.

For the third phase

Y. Patton and S. Pangnyu Phom during the briefing. (NP)

of vaccination, he said the Centre had framed new policy wherein in the States, Union Territories and private hospitals would have to procure the vaccine from the manufacturer at pre-fixed price of Rs 300 per dose.

Accordingly, he said the State cabinet has decided to procure the vaccine and provide free of cost to all citizens, adding the procurement was under process.

Oxygen plant: Under the PM Cares Fund, the State has been granted three pressure swing absorption (PSA) oxygen generation plants for Kohima with 300 litre per-minute (LPM) capacity.

For Dimapur district hospital and Dr Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), Mokokchung, Patton said oxygen generation plants with 200-LMP capacity were granted and equipments had reached except the compressor, which would be airlifted very soon, after which installation for these two plants would begin.

He mentioned that the proposed PSA plants for Tuensang and Phek were supported by UNDP, while UNICEF was providing supporting for the plants at Wokha, Mon, Zunheboto, Peren, Kiphire and Longleng.

(Cont’d on p-2)

267 fresh Covid cases; 3 more deaths in State State gets `379.75 cr PDRD grant More oxygen plant equipment flown in

D I M A P U R , M AY 6 COVID-19 STATUS AS ON May 6, 2021 (NPN): Nagaland on May 6 ACTIVE CASES recorded 267 fresh Covid-19 Symptomatic AsDeath MiRecovunder Total Critical-ICU positive cases and three more District ympDeath grattomered InvestiCases ModSeWith- With On ed Covid-19 related deaths.

Mild atic gation erate vere out Oxy- VentiOf the fresh cases, KoOxygen gen lator hima recorded 130 cases, Dimapur 1390 107 13 22 0 5 4 6509 84 0 368 8502 Dimapur 177, Tuensang and Kiphire 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 40 1 0 0 45 Kohima 545 7 7 2 0 3 1 4075 24 0 70 4733 Mokokchung seven cases 0 9 37 each, Phek and Zunheboto Longleng 10 5 0 0 0 0 0 13 0 0 13 248 two cases each while Mon Mokokchung 24 9 3 0 0 0 0 194 5 Mon 16 15 0 0 0 0 0 595 3 0 9 638 and Longleng reported one Peren 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 507 0 0 1 516 case each, taking the total Phek 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 61 1 0 0 66 caseload to 15271.

Tuensang 25 4 0 0 0 0 0 259 2 0 2 292 Following the death of Wokha 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 36 1 0 2 43 three more persons-- two in Zunheboto 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 139 0 0 3 151 Kohima and one in Phek, Total 2037 148 23 24 0 8 5 12428 111 0 477 15271 the tally rose to 111 (101 *10 deaths not due to Covid-19 *0 deaths under investigation Covid deaths and 10 nonCovid) 222763 persons have been 19. (175398 first dose and Meanwhile, a total of inoculated against Covid- 47365 second dose)

Odd-even system enforced in Kma

This is it!

“Who am I to comment on ban? Ban drives items to the blackmarket and makes them dearer.”

K Y M C

providing free COVID-19 vaccine and other COVID19 related activities, the state government would deduct 20% non-development expenditure from at least 82 departments amounting to Rs 47.68 crore.

In an office memorandum, the state finance department notified that there would be pro-rata cuts of 20% under non-development from the budget estimate 2021-22.

The pro rata or proportional cuts would be made from funds meant for travel expenses, office expenses, motor vehicles and main- Containers being offloaded from the IAF aircraft tenance. at Dimapur airport, Thursday.

SC trashes ECI plea against Madras HC observations

‘‘

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Kohima district administration has informed that the odd-even system for vehicular movement has been enforced in the declared containment zones-- Kohima Municipal areas and New capital complex, effective 7 p.m. of May 5 till May 12.

In an order, deputy commissioner Kohima, Gregory Thejawelie stated that vehicles ending with odd number-- 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 shall be allowed to ply on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Vehicles number ending with 2, 4, 6, 8 and 0 will be allowed to ply only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

D I M A P U R , M AY 6 (NPN): The Centre has released the second monthly instalment of Post Devolution Revenue Deficit (PDRD) grant of Rs. 9,871 crore for the year 202122 to 17 states, which include Rs.379.75 crore to Nagaland.

With the release of second instalment, a total amount of Rs. 19,742 crore has been released in the first two months of the current financial year as Post Devolution Revenue Deficit Grant to the states.

State govt initiates austerity measure: To mobilize additional funds for

We are staunch proponent of freedom of media to report court proceedings

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): Supreme Cour t Thursday said it is a “staunch proponent of freedom of media” to report court proceedings and trashed a plea of the Election Commission that press should be reporting orders only and not observations, saying such a demand struck at

principles of open court and the fundamental right to freedom of speech under Constitution.

“This court stands as a staunch proponent of the freedom of the media to report court proceedings. This we believe is integral to the freedom of speech and expression of those who speak, of those who wish to hear and to be heard and above all, in holding the judiciary accountable to the values which justify its existence as a constitutional institution,” a bench comprising justices

D Y Chandrachud and M R Shah said.

The remarks were part of the judgement by which the top court did not allow the plea of the EC seeking expunction of remarks of the Madras High Court that the poll panel was responsible for surge in COVID-19 cases and murder charges be put on its responsible officers, saying the oral observations were not part of “official judicial record” and hence there was no question of expunging them.

Referring to the right

of media, the judgment, penned by Justice Chandrachud, said citizens have a right to know as to what transpires in judicial proceedings through media and the freedom of speech and expression to media is also impliedly provided by Article 19 of the Constitution. The 31-page verdict said the freedom of speech and expression also extends to reporting the proceedings of judicial institutions and the courts are entrusted to perform crucial functions under the law.

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a special cross-country flight from Ahmedabad via Allahabad with leftover compressors and equipment for activation of the much-needed oxygen plants in Nagaland.

The major consignment was initially airlifted

by Chandigarh-based IL 76 aircraft of IAF from Delhi last week.

The consignment weighing approximately three tonne was handed over to Chumukedima EAC Seyie Solo, the coordinating officer at Dimapur airport on Thursday afternoon and this would further proceed to designated destinations at Dimapur and Mokokchung by road.

IAF’s AN 32 medium-lift transport aircraft of Russian origin of the 49 squadron based at Jorhat was tasked to carry out the mission. With this, IAF completed its 13th special airlift mission in aid of the Nagaland government carrying approximately 96 tonne of critical Covid-related equipment since 2020

Rockslide blocks NH-29 stretch

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Following a massive rockslide near Chümoukedima police check gate Thursday morning, all vehicular has movement been affected along the NH-29 stretch.

Dimapur police also took to twitter saying “Normal vehicle traffic on NH 29 temporarily halted due to a rockslide near Chumoukedima Police check gate.”

Traffic personnel stationed at the site said that it would take time to clear the debris and therefore advised all travellers to take the alternate route through 7th mile area till the time the road was cleared. Road block near Chümou police check gate (Dimapur police)

Former minister Khutovi Sema passes away GBUD, DUCCF for strict enforcement of SOPs DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Former minister of Nagaland Khutovi Sema passed away at Eden Hospital, Dimapur Thursday after a prolonged illness. He was 76 and survived by his wife, three sons and two daughters. The body of late Khutovi was laid to rest at his private residence Akaiho Complex, Signal Basti Dimapur after a funeral service.

Born on April 13, 1945, Khutovi Sema obtained BSc (Agri) from Orrisa Agri University, Bhubaneshwar.

After his retirement in 2002 as director wasteland development department, he contested the assembly election in 2003 as an independent

Late Khutovi Sema

candidate and won the 33 Suruhuto A/C and was appointed as minister R&B.

Condolences

CM: Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio and several other leaders and

organisations expressed sorrow in their condolence messages. Expressing grief at the passing away of late Khutovi, Rio in his tweeter message also lauded his contribution towards the development of the state.

Rio extended deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the departed soul rest in peace.

DyCM: Deputy chief minister and BJP Legislative Party (BLP) leader Y Patton said he was saddened at the demise of Khutovi Sema.

In a condolence message, Patton said the late Khutovi was successful leader in party and electoral politics giving his best ser-

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): GB Union Dimapur (GBUD) and Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) have stressed on strict enforcement of guidelines issued by the State government in the interest of public safety and contain the spread of Covid-19.

In a joint statement, GBUD president MY Ngullie and DUCCF president Tsenthungo Nyamo urged the Dimapur district authorities to take all necessary precautionary measures at all entry points of air, train and road traffic.

They also called for posting of adequate security (Cont’d on p-6) personnel at entry points to

vices for the welfare of the people. Terming his demise as a great loss for the people, Patton sent his deepest condolences to the bereaved family members on behalf of the State BJP legislators and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.

Speaker: Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Sharingain Longkumer expressed profound sorrow over the demise of Khutovi Sema on behalf of the 13th NLA. He described late Khutovi as “a humble and soft spoken person” whose contributions to the people of Nagaland would always be remembered.

detect outside people sneaking into the district.

Appreciating the police commissioner for taking the decision to allow plying of vehicles on odd-even basis, they said stern action should be taken and penalty imposed on those violating SOPs and offered the support of their organisations to the district administration, as and when needed.

In order to control the spread of Covid, GBUD and DUCCF said they issued directives to all colony authorities within their jurisdiction to be pro-active in preventing the spread of the virus by adhering to certain measures.

These include prohibiting

public gathering in large numbers in any form within the colonies, providing proper information to colony residents for obtaining essential commodities from within the colony shops and avoid going to market places and instructing citizens to avoid venturing outside their homes, if not important or necessary to do so.

The organisations said they had directed colony authorities to make sure that residents maintained strict discipline and acted in a responsible manner by adhering to SOPs, wore masks, used hand sanitisers and maintained social distance.

(Cont’d on p-2) K Y M C

2

state

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A

B

C

A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

91% 9% 0%

Next poll

Q: Was BCCI driven by motive

of profit by ignoring threat of second COVID wave on IPL teams?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST may 7

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Times of sun and clouds

34 23

Partly sunny

30 18

Aizawl

Guwahati An afternoon thunderstorm Imphal

Partly sunny and pleasant

Itanagar Mostly cloudy

30 20 30 17 27 19

Shillong

An afternoon thunderstorm

20 14

Kohima

An afternoon thunderstorm

24 14

Dimapur A t-storm around in the p.m.

31 19

A thunderstorm in spots

26 15

Tuensang A thunderstorm in spots

18 12

Mkg Wokha

A stray afternoon t-storm

Zunheboto Clouds and sun

24 18 23 13

Distt administrations, CMO issue COVID-19 advisories

DIMAPUR: State level and district officials in all 11 districts have been conducting meetings and issuing fresh guidelines to contain the spread of Covid-19. Civil society organisations have also been taking necessary measures for the safety of the public.

Kohima: To prevent non-essential movement of persons entering the containment zone under Kohima district, strict enforcement on the laid restrictions and checking of all travellers at all district entry points have been activated as per the decision taken by Kohima District Task Force on COVID-19.

According to DIPR report, SDO (C) Sechü Zubza, Tiayanger Jamir on Thursday informed that at the entry point, Peducha check gate under Sechü Zubza, travellers entering Kohima and heading to other districts of Nagaland were made to register their details at the gate.

Even though the government had declared Kohima municipal area and new capital complex as containment zone and had imposed night curfew from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. from May 5, he informed that most of the travellers were not aware of it and not adhering to COVID-19 appro-

Travellers entering Kohima getting registered details at ADC and chairman BTF Bhandari with SDO (C) and EAC Bhandari during the BTF meeting. (DIPR) Peducha check gate. (DIPR)

priate behaviours such as proper wearing of masks, 50 percent occupancy in vehicles etc.

Travellers have been advised not to undertake non-essential travel and cooperate with the guidelines issued by the government in order to break the chain of transmission.

The SDO further informed that the government, health care workers and front line workers alone cannot fight the pandemic but that it required a collective effort of all the citizens.

Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) administrator, Kovi Meyase has in a notification directed the markets located at BOC (both T. Khel & Mao markets) and high school market to open only 50% of their shops w.e.f. May 6 till further notice. KMC informed that it would also monitor the other market

Mokokchung DCPU launches ‘hope for every child’ video Correspondent MOKOKCHUNG, MAY 6 (NPN): Under the initiative of Mokokchung District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), a new video, titled “hope for every child” was launched, Thursday, at the DCPU Office by Mokokchung EAC, Sentilong.

While launching the video, Sentilong acknowledged how such initiative for the protection of children was his maiden experience and that he was fortunate to be a part of the noble cause.

He said that the pro-

Mokokchung EAC Sentilong (R) launching the video with DCPO, Dr. Moasenla Imchen. (NP)

gramme would prove to be a boon, especially for people living in the remote areas who had no access to basic information with

regard to child abuse and exploitation Sentilong further said that launching of the video was a milestone achievement and hoped that it would be a channel to provide “hope to the hopeless”.

Earlier, while delivering the keynote and welcome address, District child protection officer (DCPO), Dr. Moasenla Imchen stated that that the main purpose of the programme was “to reach the unreached”, through social media, during the pandemic. The launching programme was led by Supongsangla.

GBUD, DUCCF for strict enforcement of SOPs

(From p-1)

Further, they also asked the colony authorities to the monitor status of returnees/ travellers entering colonies from outside the State, insisting that no one should be allowed to stay without informing colony authorities about their travel history.

The colony authorities have also been directed to check and ensure that prices of essential commodities were sold at prescribed rates fixed by Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) and, if necessary, essential commodities needed by the residents may be arranged by colony authorities so that there was no shortage GBUD and DUCCF asked colonies in border areas to be extra cautious in order to detect people without proper valid documents/medical status report entering their colonies, besides asking them to ensure that the residents adhered to the guidelines issued by competent authorities.

Further, both the organisations asked the colony authorities to give full cooperation and support to the district administration, law enforcing agencies, DMC and health department.

NU urged to conduct LLB exam soon

DIMAPUR: City Law College Students’ union (CLCSU) Dimapur and Mokokchung Law College Students’ Union (MLCSU) have appealed for the early conduct of LLB II, IV and VI semester examination.

In a letter addressed to the vice chancellor (VC) NU Lumami, CLCSU president Ramdihei and MLCSU general secretary Molusen Imchen stated that the university authority had talked about proper planning and logistic arrangement to carry out online mode of examination and the need for taking the confidence of the regulating author-

ity as law course being a professional course with separate regulatory authority.

In this regard, the two unions questioned if the university authority had taken any logistic arrangement for online examination since there has been enough time from the cancellation of examination till date. The two unions also requested the university to conduct the online examination by consulting the regulating authority at the earliest as law students cannot always become the victim of COVID-19 like previous academic year.

UNPG NNC/PB cautions DIMAPUR: UNPG NNC/PB has informed all business establishments around Dimapur to be vigilant and desist from entertaining voluntary contribution seekers.

In a press release, MIP secretary, VN Zhimomi stated that it was observed that Ayito Shohe of Ustomi village, “a self styled Colonel” who had defected from UNPG NNC/PB to NSCN GPRN (K) was seeking contributions from business establishments around Dimapur town “in the good name” of UNPG. K Y M C

Further, UNPG NNC/ PB also clarified that the person was never clarifies that the said person was never entrusted with the task of raising contributions whatsoever and would not be held responsible in such matters and strongly championed that the people’s government would “not allow opportunists to misrepresent the will and urge of the people for greater good.”

UNPG NNC/PB has sternly warned that any person dealing with such fickle characters would be doing so at his or her own

volition.

Meanwhile, UNPG NNC/PB in a separate press release informed that Unoto A Chishi of Toluvi village, finance in-charge was no longer a member or a part of the UNPG. Its MIP secretary, VN Zhimomi has informed that any individual, union, association etc., dealing with him or his subordinates in the name of UNPG NNC/ PB would be doing so at his or her own risk “for which the People’s Government shall not be held responsible.”

sites for enforcement of the same, if required.

DC Kohima prohibits: DC & DTF Kohima chairman, Gregory Thejawelie has informed that all places of mass gathering including religious places would remain closed within Kohima district until further orders.

Dimapur: CMO Dimapur, Dr. Mereninla Senlem has directed all COVID-19 testing centres both government and private hospitals/ laboratories to ask for some form of government approved identification such as Aadhar card/bank passbook/ration card etc., and to verify contact details for full address and phone/mobile number of patients before testing the individuals.

The CMO also informed that WhatsApp mobile number or email ID should be requested to send the test result and parents’/ guardians’ details may be

used for minors.

This was being necessitated to avoid any gap in contact tracing to control further spread of COVID19 in the community.

Peren: DC Peren has informed all construction agencies/companies undertaking developmental works in Peren district to furnish list of workers employed in such activities to the office of the deputy commissioner at the earliest.

All such agencies have been asked to maintain movement registry of employees/workers entering the district from outside.

F u r t h e r, a l l s u c h agencies have also been informed to identify suitable isolations to be used as COVID-19 isolation centres for employees/workers in case of any eventuality.

Failure to comply with this order shall invite legal action as per relevant provisions of the law.

A D C Te n i n g h a s directed all construction agencies/companies engaged in the developmental works under Tening subdivision to furnish the list of their employee/workers employed in such activities to the office at the earliest.

All such agencies/ companies have also directed to maintain movement records/registry of their employee/workers entering the sub-division from outside.

ADC directed such agencies/companies to prepare contingency plan such as identification of location for use as COVID-19 isolation centres, etc., for taking care of their employees/workers in case of any eventuality relating to COVID-19 pandemic.

Failure to comply with the order would invite penal action as per relevant provision of law.

Wokha: Wokha Dis-

trict Chamber of Commerce & Industries (WDCCI) has informed all business community in Wokha town that shops would be provided odd and even number for opening of shops, in order to ensure safety of general public of Wokha.

A press release by information secy., WDCCI, Abenthung Kikon, stated that the decision was taken at a consultative meeting at Wokha District Administration office on May 5, with WDCCI officials, directing all business establishments to follow odd and even number provided as serial number 1 and 2 in all the shops by Wokha Town Council (WTC) starting from May 7.

WDCCI further informed general public and all business community to follow strictly Covid-19 SOP guidelines during shopping hours, and requested to adhere to standing order until new order was issued from office of WDCCI through directive of WTC. Block task force on COVID-19, Bhandari subdivision held a meeting on Thursday, at the office chamber of the ADC, Bhandari.

According to DIPR report, ADC and Bhandari BTF chairman, Tiameren Chang, NCS, while lauding

the BTF members for providing COVID-19 services to the public with sincerity, reiterated that border screening check gate which was now activated and would be properly monitored for health precautionary measures.

He also said that the Covid-care centre which was set up should be sufficient to meet the needs of the public for now.

The meeting also deliberated on strict enforcement of COVID-19 SOPs and protocols and resolved to adhere to wearing of mask, hand washing and providing sanitisers at all public places to ensure health safety movement of all.

The meeting further resolved to expedite setting up of village functionaries to monitor and inform BTF on persons with travel history from outside the state.

The meeting reiterated that civil societies would continue to assist and support the administration to combat COVID-19 pandemic as and when required.

E a r l i e r, T i a m e r e n Chang also stressed on the importance of rendering services to the people at such difficult times and reminded the head of offices to remain at their respective work station.

news in Brief State currently has 1,16,890 Covid vaccine doses: Patton KMC informs traders, business community: Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) administrator, Kovi Meyase has informed all traders and business community under Kohima Municipal Council jurisdiction to strictly adhere to the essential commodities rates fixed by the office and as per the MRP. KMC also informed that defaulters would be penalised as per the provision of law.

Wokha DPDB meeting on May 10: DC Wokha and vice chairman District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) Wokha, Orenthung Lotha has informed all concerned that the monthly DPDB meeting would be held on May 10, 11 a.m. at DC’s conference hall, Wokha.

All members have been requested to attend the meeting.

DC Tuensang notifies on new wards: DC Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant has informed that as decided in the delimitation board meeting in respect of Tuensang town council (TTC) and in accordance with relevant provisions under Nagaland municipal (delimitation of wards) rules, 2003, board decided to create two new wards NST ward (14) and Hakushang Ward (15) under TTC. DC has informed that any objection and suggestion with regard to the notice would be accepted up to seven days from the issue of this public notice.

(From p-1) He said civil and electrical works, besides oxygen pipeline, had been initiated after which the plants would be installed, adding that a proposal for Noklak district too has been submitted to the Union Health ministry and a positive response was expected.

He exuded confidence that these oxygen plants at all district hospitals would ensure uninterrupted oxygen supply.

Rice distribution: Under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), Patton said the Union consumer affairs, food & public distribution ministry was allocating rice for free distribution– 5 kg per priority household (PHH) and Antodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

As in the previous year, he said the Central government granted another two-month extension and the State would be distributing rice to 2,10,765 AAY and 11,93,922 PHH beneficiaries PMGKAY, for which lifting and distribution process had been initiated by the food & civil supplies department.

Covid awareness: He said Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM), in collaboration with Health department, was engaged in engaged in creating awareness on Covid-19

vaccination, Covid-19-appropriate behaviours, health-seeking behaviours and immunity-building measures. So far, he claimed that 1,154 villages had been covered under the campaign, even as agri-nutri gardens were being promoted in rural households to enhancing nutritional food intake.

Welfare schemes: Patton recalled that a relief package of Rs 1.7 lakh crore was announced under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Atmanirbhar Bharat keeping in mind the India of tomorrow.

Under this vision, he said a massive economic package of about Rs 20 lakh crore was declared for the welfare of poor, launch various welfare schemes and revive industry and business.

Accordingly, he claimed that the PDA government under the leadership of chief minister Neiphiu Rio was working tirelessly in the common fight against the pandemic and implementing all welfare schemes initiated both by the Central and State governments very effectively and in a transparent manner.

Patton said director general of police TJ Longkumer, during a security meeting held on Thursday, said arrangements for

Mon district wins at SKOCH awards

DIMAPUR: Mon district administration was awarded silver at the SKOCH awards for “response to COVID-19” on April 30.

In a press release, DC Mon Thavaseelan K said that in response to the COVID-19, the district administration started a slew of measures to contain and prevent the spread while ensuring that the basic services were delivered to people at their doorsteps.

P ubl ic m ove m e nt permit, home delivery

of vegetables, banking services and water, food bank, online e-pass for intra-district movement, active case search strategy, walk-in sample kiosk, district COVID app, were some of the innovations initiated.

In 2020, the SKOCH award was also conferred to Mon in three categories: SKOCH golden crucible award for the mission “financially inclusive Mon”, SKOCH order of merit for its initiative “district response to COVID-19”

and SKOCH honourable mention for “skill Mon mission”. Instituted in 2003, the SKOCH award is India’s highest civilian honour conferred by an independent organisation as third party assessment.

The award recognises and awards best efforts in the areas of digital, financial and social inclusion.

It also recognises the best governance practice in the country and provides a platform for the rest of the country to emulate such practices.

ICU beds and emergency services could be arranged at Ganeshnagar, if required, adding it too could be an option.

Appeal to follow Covid SOPs: Mentioning that all State departments were working tirelessly and coordinating to combat the pandemic, he stressed that spread of the virus would be contained by practising Covid-appropriate behaviours by everyone.

He appreciated the doctors, nurses and all other frontline workers for their determined and selfless services in battling the pandemic under very challenging circumstances.

Acknowledging the massbased organisations, churches and citizens for their wholehearted support to the government in the common fight against the pandemic, Patton urged all to strictly adhere to Covid-19 protocols and those eligible to get themselves vaccinated.

To a query, H&FW minister S Pangnyu Phom replied that he had written a letter to the Union H&FW minister Dr Harsh Vardhan to sanction 16 lakh doses of Covid vaccine for 18-44 year category, whose population was projected to be around eight lakh.

He said the State H&FW department had also sent a proposal for increasing ICU, ventilator and oxygen beds in the existing hospitals.

OFFICE OF THE

STUDENTS’ UNION ATOIZU TOWN

the students’ Union atoizü town (sUat), extends our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family over the demise of late shri. K. toluho shohe on 04th may 2021 .

We acknowledge his immense contribution to the Society and Students’ welfare, who, served as president in Citizens Club atoizü 1978-80. He also served as the General Secretary in SuaT (1980-81).

He will be remembered for his great leadership and service rendered towards the upliftment of the society. may his soul rest in eternal peace.

(VIBolI KIBa) (HeRato aYe) President, sUat gen.secy., sUat

Dp-2349

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is there need for the govt to widely publicise retail prices of various food items?

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2021

ACKnOwLeDGeMenT SURELY GOODNESS AND MERCY WILL FOLLOW ME ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE, AND I WILL DWELL IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD FOREVER (Psalm 23:6)

5th DEATH ANNIVERSARY of

LT. TEMSUMONGBA JAMIR It has been five years since you left us to be with the Lord. But, the life that you lived, and the beautiful memories that you made with us will always be cherished and remembered.

You are deeply loved and missed!

K-936

Loving wife, children and family members.

31/05/1975 – 24/03/2021 We, the bereaved family members of Late Hokanili Achumi would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who have shown support and kindness in different manners at the untimely demise of our beloved on 24th April 2021.

We would also like to convey our special thanks to the doctors and Nurses who fought for her life, may the Almighty God bless you all. resT UnDer His eTernAL refUGe Dp-2347

From Loving; Husband, Children, Grandchildren, In-laws & Relatives

K Y M C

M’laya to first inoculate 34 newly-elected Assam people in vulnerable areas MLAs have criminal cases Correspondent

Guwahati, May 6 (PTI): Thirty-four of the 126 newly elected Assam MLAs have criminal cases against them, with the highest 52 cases against Akhil Gogoi, the lone Independent candidate to win the election, according to the Association For Democratic Reforms. In the last legislative Assembly (2016-2021) 14 MLAs had criminal cases against them.

Of the 126 winning candidates analysed by the Association For Democratic Reforms (ADR), 34 have declared criminal cases, comprising 27 per cent of the total winners, with 28 of them having serious criminal cases related to murder, attempt to murder, crimes against women among other offences. The ruling NDA has 11 out of the 75 winning candidates with criminal cases, with the BJP having the highest of nine while its partners the AGP and UPPL have one each, the ADR report said.

The opposition Congress has 12 of its 29 winners and its partner the AIUDF has 10 of the 16 newly elected MLAs with criminal records. Seven of the BJP’s 60 winning candidates have “serious criminal cases” while its partners have one each while the Congress has 10 and its ally the AIUDF has eight newly elected members in this category along with the independent candidate, it said.

The criteria of ‘seri-

Akhil Gogoi has 52 cases against him. ous criminal cases’ refers to offence for which maximum punishment is of five years or more, If an offence is non-bailable, If it is an electoral offence, offence related to loss to exchequer those related to assault, murder, kidnap, rape related, those offences that are mentioned in Representation of the People Act 8, under Prevention of Corruption Act and crimes against women.

The new assembly will have one member with declared cases related to murder, five members with cases of attempt to murder and two with cases related to crimes against women.

Akhil Gogoi, the president of Raijor Dal, who won as an Independent candidate from Sibsagar constituency, is the first candidate in the state to win an election from jail, has the highest of 52 cases against him.

These include three charges related to attempt to murder and two charges related to waging, or attempting to wage war, or

abetting waging of war, against the Government of India, among others, the ADR report said.

Former Congress minister and Karimganj (South) MLA Siddeque Ahmed has seven cases and his party colleague Rekibuddin Ahmed from Chaygaon has five while another member Abul Kalam Rasheed Alam from Goalpara (East) has three cases pending against him, it said. AIUDF’s Aminul Islam from Dhing and Ashraful Hussain from Chenga have four cases each against them while first time BJP MLA Jitu Goswami from Barhampur and Diganta Kalita from Kamalpur have three cases each pending against them.

U P P L’s G o b i n d a Chandra Basumatari from Udalguri (ST), Congress’s Rupjyoti Kurmi of Mariani, AIUDF’s Rafiqul Islam from Jania and Nizanur Rahman from Gauripur and BJP’s Rama Kanta Dewri from Marigaon and Manab Deka from Lakhimpur have two cases each.

Kohima DTBF discuss TB elimination DIMAPUR: The meeting of 3rd Kohima district TB forum was held on May 5 at DC’s conference hall.

DC Gregory Thejawelie who is also the chairperson of the forum chaired the meeting.

A press release by district TB forum Kohima member secretar y, Dr. Asunu Sakhrie stated that the last meeting minutes were discussed where the house was informed that sensitisation and awareness programmes for TB along with testing were ongoing activities with special focus in the health and wellness centers and hard to reach villages.

HIV test is also done whenever sputum testing takes place. A new digital X ray has been provided to DTC by the Central TB Division where installation is awaited.

Kohima district TB officer highlighted that since India was committed to end TB by 2025, the health system required participation of the community at large to help in the fight against TB. WHO consultant, Dr.

K Y M C

Collins stated that the missing cases increased last year both at national and state level during the pandemic, which was why community participation was important to reach the target.

DPO, DAPCU Sentimongla Tzudir shared about the increase in HIV positivity in the last financial year and requested for more platforms where awareness on HIV and AIDS along with voluntary testing.

Meanwhile, the house decided to work on the various agendas to reach out to the masses.

The house decided to sensitise elected representatives of the district on TB and HIV through DPDB platform to build a strong political and administrative commitment.

For rural areas, joining hands with RD department to create awareness in the rural areas; in urban areas, co-ordination with the different wards for which TB staffs can be called for sensitisation whenever any such meetings are held with the DC office.

3

Northeast/State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2021

It discussed on social welfare department (Poshan Abhiyan) to be included so that avenues for nutritional benefits to TB patients could be looked into which can increase the service uptake; sensitisation on TB during the Nasha Mukht Abhiyan programmes in the district.

To have equal participation with women, the department of women development and Nagaland state commission for women were requested to include TB sensitisation and awareness programmes in any of their activities where TB health staff could provide their service.

The meeting was attended and represented by members from CMO Kohima, DIO, Kohima municipal council, ADC Kohima, WHO consultant NTEP program, women resource development department, Nagaland state commission for women, legal consultant H&FW, KNP+ president, KNP+ project coordinator, DAPCU and cured TB patient.

Shillong, May 6: The Meghalaya Government said it would give first priority for vaccination to people residing in vulnerable areas in the State.

Health officials informed that the state government has already made the payment for 42,630 vaccines to the Serum Institute of India (SII) for the vaccines.

“Majority of the doses will be provided for those between 40-44 years of age in vulnerable areas to begin with,” Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare, P. Sampath Kumar, said.

Although, the payment and all the paper works have been completed, the health official said, the State is yet to received the vaccines.

Health and Family

Welfare Minister, Alexander Laloo Hek, expect that the vaccine would arrive in the State shortly.

The state government has paid Rs. 300 per vaccine to SII. “The vaccine would be provided for free at the government health facilities, but these would be administered on a payment basis at the private hospitals,” Kumar said.

However, the state health department has not announced fixation of any rate of the vaccine in the private hospitals and would be decided once the vaccines arrive, which they said would be here probably by next week.

On the other hand, the State Government has placed an order of 15 lakh vaccines for inoculation of the entire population of the state.

Rupsi Airport in Assam to be operational from Saturday

Guwahati, May 6 (PTI): Rupsi Airport in Assam’s Dhubri district is poised to be operational from Saturday with a trial flight conducted on the Guwahati-Rupsi-Guwahati route by Flybig Airlines, an Airports Authority of India (AAI) official said on Thursday.

The trial run was completed timely and safely on Wednesday with extended support from the Assam Government and concerned agencies, the AAI official said. The airport has been developed under the RCS-UDAN scheme and operations by Flybig Airlines are scheduled to start from Saturday between Guwahati-RupsiKolkata route. The flight is scheduled to operate on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, the

official said.

Bookings for the route has been opened by Flybig airlines, he added.

Meanwhile, a release of Flybig Thursday said that it has forayed into the North East region to provide connectivity under UDAN scheme to remote areas amidst the pandemic and at a time when the country is facing challenges due to COVID-19. Safer

means of transport during the pandemic have become critical to ensure the aspirations of the emerging region and its economy, the release said. After its successful launch in Central India, Flybig is set to embark on its operations in the Northeast starting from the second week of May connecting Guwahati, Rupsi, and Kolkata initially.

COVID: Highest single-day death toll of 13 in Manipur Correspondent IMPHAL, May 6: COVID19 claimed 13 lives in Manipur in a span of 24 hours, the highest single-day fatality ever since the first case recorded in March last year.

Manipur recorded the first COVID-19 case when a girl student who returned from the UK where she studied tested positive for the viral disease on March 24, 2020, the same day the nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of the pan-

demic was imposed by the Central government.

With the viral disease spreading across the state after returnees from the other states entered the state, the state recorded its highest single-day deaths of 10 on November 29, 2020.

The record single-day death of 13 persons pushed the state’s COVID-19 fatality tally to 447 and 380 new infections took the overall caseload of the viral disease to 33,733 on Thursday.

The number of active coronavirus cases in the

state is 2991, as per the data of the state health department updated Thursday at 5 pm. The number of recoveries also rose to 30,295 with the discharge of 33 patients upon recovery today.

Of the 380 new infections, 18 were Central security force personnel and of the 362 from the general population, the maximum number was from the twin capital districts- with 170 from Imphal West and 116 from Imphal East district.

Following the rapid increase in the infection, the

State

ANTA Wokha files FIR against fake news

Correspondent

WOKHA, MAY 6 (NPN): Reacting to a fake news about 13 COVID infected taxi drivers plying between Kohima and Wokha, the All Nagaland Taxi Association (ANTA) Wokha on Thursday lodged an FIR with the Wokha police station.

ANTA stated that the rumour that was doing the rounds has affected the livelihood and business of its members.

Dismissing the rumour, which had gone viral on facebook and What-

sApp, the ANTA unit said that the information was “baseless” and sought thorough investigation in the case.

The association has appealed to the Wokha district administration for COVID tests of all the drivers under ANTA Wokha, particularly those of Dimapur and Kohima. The association also directed its members to strictly comply with the SOPs. Meanwhile, ANTA Wokha distributed hand sanitisers and masks to all taxis plying within and outside the district.

MPC visits Fazl Ali College Correspondent MOKOKCHUNG, MAY 6 (NPN): Mokokchung Press Club (MPC) paid a visit to Fazl Ali College (FAC) on Thursday.

During the discussion, it was revealed that most developmental activities in the college were internally funded without assistance from the government.

The road to the college campus from NH-702 was in a debilitated condition and the building construction funded through Rashtriya

Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan scheme implemented by engineering wing of higher education department was incomplete.

FAC was the first government college in the state to be accredited by national assessment and accreditation council in 2009. The college was assessed again and was accredited with Grade B in 2015.

However, it was observed that the college required more in order to get a good score during the NAAC peer team visit.

ATMA Zbto conducts interaction prog DIMAPUR: Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Zunheboto conducted farmers and scientist interaction programme on May 4, at SDAO office, Akuluto.

The programme was chaired by BTM, Zunheboto block Chubatsur, while DPD ATMA Vikhaho delivered welcome address by informing the farmers on the use of Naga farm doctor app and Kisan Suvidha app for queries on agriculture & allied activities.

Resource persons, Dr. Visakho and Dr. Nongothung from KVK Lumami discussed on the queries raised by farmers on several topics such as damping off in chilli, poor germination in paddy as a result of delay in monsoon as well as fall army worm infestation in maize.

Various control measures and management practices for FAW were highlighted.

Altogether, 20 participants including farmers’ friends, progressive farmers, agriculture & ATMA staffs attended the programme. Vote of thanks was delivered by BTM, Akuluto block Tsuktilemla Ao.

state government has been imposing various restrictions by notifying Greater Imphal that covers a major portion of the two capital districts as a containment zone.

On the other hand, the whole of Churachandpur district, where a gradual upward trend of infection has been witnessed in the last few days, has also been notified as a containment zone for seven days with immediate effect.

An order issued by Churachandpur district

magisterial on Thursday notified the whole revenue jurisdiction of Churachandpur district as a containment zone with immediate effect for a period of seven days, suspending all activities and movement of persons, except the permitted activities.

The whole of the district was a containment zone as the numbers of positive cases of COVID-19 continued to rise unabated despite imposition of various restrictions in the entire district.

WSSU, DSSU back ANCSU’s ultimatum

DIMAPUR: Western Sumi Students’ Union (WSSU) and Dimapur Sumi Students Union (DSSU) have extended their support to All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU)’s 14-day ultimatum on higher education department over delayed scholarship.

In a press release, WSSU through its president A. Kughato Achumi and info & publicity secretary Iuto V. Swu urged the minister to justify his stand behind the delay in disbursing of scholarship on time.

The union also asked all the implementing agencies “to release scholarships expeditiously” so the students from economically weaker section did not face any hardships.

Further, WSSU has affirmed that it “will now not remain a silent spectator but will fight tooth and nail against any corruption”.

In a separate press release, DSSU president Vitopu Ayemi and general secretary Vitoka N Rochill stated that the responsible department and the state government should not withhold the fund meant for students by resorting to payments of scholarship on installment basis.

DSSU stated that the student community out of whatever little amount they receive as scholarship could have paid for their academic needs.

DSSU has, therefore, appealed to the department and the state government to release the entire amount received from the ministry without further delay.

Further, DSSU said that it was open to exploring all options available to get the attention of the government and the department in getting scholarship issue addressed.

AR conduct rapid antigen tests at Mon

DIMAPUR: Mon battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) in coordination with medical authorities of Mon civil hospital conducted Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) for the staff

of SDO office and power department, Nagnimora, on April 29.

According to PRO IGAR (N), RAT for 20 persons was conducted by the medical team of unit hospital.

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4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

Vol. XXxI NO. 150 Dimapur, Friday, May 7, 2021

What must be done

S

tates across India experience the second wave of coronavirus, there are three opinion on whether the government re-extend a nationwide lockdown as the virus has hit India like a tsunami. One opinion is that it should be extended more strictly no matter the negative impact on the nation’s economy. After all, those holding the view insist that life is more important than wealth. The other is the opinion that a lockdown be imposed with certain restrictions but relaxing protocols for economic activities such as agriculture, services , retailers and manufacturers of essential goods to function. The third opinion is that lockdown has not achieved the desired objective and so it is better to emphasise on mass vaccination. Those holding the third opinion also believe that mass vaccination and making individuals take more responsibility to adhere to covid protocols and conducting random sample tests was the best option. The first wave of the pandemic in 2020 elicited a knee-jerk reaction from the government when it announced a nationwide lockdown on March 25,2020 without so much as taking heed to advice of health experts and scientists. Lakhs of migrant workers were uprooted and had to trek thousands of miles to their home states and during which hundreds died.

The Lockdown had somehow lessened covid cases but even on this, renowned scientists, virologists and epidemiologists chose to differ with the government data. In addition, these experts had also warned the government against proclaiming success prematurely. The WHO had recommended using this “opportunity”(Lockdown) to train and deploy healthcare and public health workforce, implement a system to find every suspected case at community level, ramp up the production, capacity and availability of testing, identify, adapt and equip facilities the countries will use to treat and isolate patients. Even as early as April 2020, many health experts had warned that the virus was adapting and mutating, which could make the virus spread faster and possibly more difficult to treat. However, the government appeared more intent on apportioning credit for political gains. The Health Ministry officials proclaimed victory by citing studies from government –sponsored institutes, which suggested that lockdown had considerably reduced spread by at least 41%.The political leadership was busy offering platitudes about epidemic preparedness and inter-ministry coordination rather than hugely increasing hospital beds, essential drugs, vaccines, oxygen equipments and healthcare professionals need while attending to Covid-19 patients. Instead, the government went back to election-mode and on March 21 Modi along with Uttarakhand chief minister Tirath Singh Rawat addressed lakhs of people for the Kumbh Mela. Devotees attended in the millions, and soon began testing positive by the thousands.

On April 1, the day the super-spreader event began, the state recorded a total of 1,863 cases. On April 26, it recorded 35,864 cases. Since the past few weeks India continues to record highest single day new cases in the world from 1 lakh cases from March to over 2 lakh in April and by May, the world record continues to be broken with over 3 lakh cases which have now crossed 4 lakh single day cases. Instead of controlling the virus, the government appears more keen to control free flow of information in the media.

It is time that the government admit that community transmission had taken place since April-May 2020 and today, it should exhibit a political will for a stricter lockdown.

DailyDevotion Liberty and the Standards of Jesus Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free… —Galatians 5:1 A spiritually-minded person will never come to you with the demand— “Believe this and that”; a spiritually-minded person will demand that you align your life with the standards of Jesus. We are not asked to believe the Bible, but to believe the One whom the Bible reveals (see John 5:39-40). We are called to present liberty for the conscience of others, not to bring them liberty for their thoughts and opinions. And if we ourselves are free with the liberty of Christ, others will be brought into that same liberty— the liberty that comes from realizing the absolute control and authority of Jesus Christ.

Always measure your life solely by the standards of Jesus. Submit yourself to His yoke, and His alone; and always be careful never to place a yoke on others that is not of Jesus Christ. It takes God a long time to get us to stop thinking that unless everyone sees things exactly as we do, they must be wrong. That is never God’s view. There is only one true liberty— the liberty of Jesus at work in our conscience enabling us to do what is right.

Don’t get impatient with others. Remember how God dealt with you— with patience and with gentleness. But never water down the truth of God. Let it have its way and never apologize for it.

Jesus said, “Go…and make disciples…” (Matthew 28:19), not, “Make converts to your own thoughts and opinions.”

Quotes

“If life were predictable it would cease to be life, and be without flavor.”

-Eleanor Roosevelt

Nagaland Post, Dimapur Friday, May 7, 2021

T

he Phek District is fortunate to have 3 Roads of 2-Lane category under SARDP, namely, Chakhabama-ChozoubaZunheboto Road, PfutseroSakraba-Phek Road and Kohima-Chakhabama-Pfutsero-Chizami-Jessami Road.

Of all the developments, road is one of the first indispensably basic needs of the people without which no real progress in other developmental areas can follow suit. These roads when successfully completed will remain to be the lifeline of the District. These major projects which are 100% funded by Surface Road Transport Ministry, GOI came to Phek District not from the blue but at the cost of someone’s sacrifice, and such projects were allocated to our people once in a life time. It has to be the endeavor of every sensible citizen of Phek District in particular to extend one’s cooperation to both the contractors and to the monitoring authorities for satisfactory workmanship and for timely completion of the projects. At times, it is disappointing to observe that the irrationality of some of

Spare the road our people tends to pollute the congenial atmosphere mostly because of greed.

Such individuals may not be realizing the magnitude of ramifications and yet their unpalatable actions have its rippling damage to the culture of the community as a whole.

With regard to my personal concern, I am perturbed by the information of forcible taxation on Maducom, the Contractor, executing 2/3 i.e. 42 kms from 20 km to 62 km on Pfutsero-Sakraba-Phek Road at the very moment. I have verified and found that most of the Naga National workers belonging to several governments are demanding money from the contractor.

What I have not verified is that whether anyone of those demanding money and claiming to represent a Govt. of their own is fabricated and not genuine, and if so, such group is not implicated herewith.

Why am I perturbed is that an employee of the contractor was even kidnapped recently though the victim was rescued by the District Police as known.

The purpose of the kidnap-

ping must have been for ransom. Whichever group had involved in the drama, the question poses to the very group is that as to whether such bandit culture was in accordance to the Naga National principle? Including this group along with the rest of all the others who had delegated their cadres to exact tax from the said contractor, I pose this question to each one of them as to whether this 2-lane road is considered to be anti-Naga National project? Is this road of ours posing threat to anyone?

The Centre Chakhesang comprising of 7 villages, namely, Porba, Sakraba, Gidemi, Phola, Upper Khomi, Middle Khomi and Lower Khomi remained backward all this while for want of good road. Meanwhile, the ongoing 2-Lane road, when completed successfully, is expected to uplift the economic condition of the people in this area.

This road will also become the most convenient route between Pfutsero and the District HQ Phek.

That being the importance of the road, I expect the Naga National workers

in particular to lend their support for quality workmanship according to the given specifications and timely completion of the road. I also expect that the Naga National workers extend their cooperation to the District Administration and to the public representatives in containing incoherent and anti-road activities of unscrupulous elements in the process of the execution of the works. When an asset as the said road is being created somewhere in our land, it is most appropriate for our National workers to actively support it.

On the contrary, it is learnt that at the moment, the contractor is badly harassed with the demand of money by the cadres from different groups. When the contractor, a non-local is placed under much stress and strain both mentally and physically, I can imagine how much zeal the contractor would have to execute the works properly. Such demands for money pollutes the environments at the work sites. Such harassment frightens the contractor by which he will definitely loss interest in the work.

Besides, the worst will be the consequential compromise in the quality workmanship in all the items. The fact remains that when the profit margin is diminished substantially due to extortion of so called tax, the contractor may be compelled to minimize the investments on quality works as per laid down specifications on items of work. Whereas, under the given situation, the ultimate looser or the victim is not the contractor but the commuters, the proprietors of the road. Such inferior quality workmanship of the road will not be lasting. By the EPC model, the contractor is bound to maintain the road he has constructed for at least 4 years post completion. Yet, the commuters’ requirement of the road is indefinite.

Thus, the inferior workmanship is going to cause permanent damage to the road and the general public will suffer in the long run.

Even as it is, whether the contractor is under the compelling circumstances of forcible taxation or not, as for me I am not satisfied with some of items particularly the quality of the stone being used for

metalling on ChakhabamaChozouba till Dzulhami and on Pfutsero-Sakraba-Phek Road. The soft stone in question which is being in use substantially for both the roads is irresistible to heat and rain. When the said specie which becomes brittle in sun and rain is used for metalling and carpeting purposes, I wonder how will the roads last.

Never theless, it is known that the contractor does not use any item without permission from NHIDCL. For instance, stone dust is used in lieu of sand from Assam for construction purposes and precast rings are used for Cross-drain on Chozouba road which were permitted

by NDIDCL. Therefore, should any sub-standard material is used by any of the contractors with the approval of NHIDCL whereby the quality control is found compromised, the NHIDCL is to be held responsible primarily.

In such case, the District Administration has to take up with the appropriate authority in the interest of the public.

Z. Lohe

The impact of Covid-19 on high BP Idleness might take a toll on children’s

I

t has been over a year and the entire world continues to battle Covid19. Moreover, the second wave of Covid-19 has put more lives in jeopardy than before, including those of youngsters. People with diabetes, hypertension, heart conditions, and other comorbidities fall continue to into the high-risk category and may encounter serious complications, if infected.

Dr Sanjay Nagarkar, General Physician, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Pune said: If you have high blood pressure, you will have to put extra effort to take care of yourself and stay healthy during the pandemic. As people with hypertension are at a higher risk of getting sick during Covid-19 and this can also lead to increased morbidity and mortality in the patients.

Know why Covid-19 can be harsh on people with high blood pressure: Various studies revealed that the mortality and morbidity rates were high in people with hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease, and obesity.

Covid is known to infect the cells that help manage blood pressure. This is how

Covid and blood pressure can be linked.

“Since the immunity is weak, people with high blood pressure and other conditions may fall prey to Covid-19. Many people above 60 have high blood pressure and many who are admitted to hospital with Covid-19 have pre-existing hypertension. Furthermore, there are many medications that also raise your risk of hypertension.

“High blood pressure leads to stroke and other heart problems. You will be shocked to know that having high blood pressure will damage your arteries and lead to a reduced blood flow to your heart. Hence, your heart will have to work harder to pump enough blood. This will weaken your heart over a period of time. Similarly, Coronavirus can also have a negative impact on your heart. It will take a toll on your heart and your heart will be damaged.

Then, Covid-19 will further wreak havoc if your heart is already damaged by high blood pressure,” Dr Nagarkar said.

What should people with hypertension do to prevent Covid-19?

If you have the problem of high blood pressure then take medication as prescribed by a certified medical practitioner. Avoid skipping the medication or self-medication. Do not adopt any home remedies without your doctor’s approval.

To keep Covid-19 at bay, avoid venturing out of the house. If you are supposed to go out then wear a mask in crowded areas and do not be around sick people. Try to avoid poorly ventilated rooms.

See to it that you follow social distancing norms.

You will have to maintain a safe distance from family members as well as outsiders. Do not allow visitors at home. Avoid attending social gatherings where a large number of people are present. Avoid handshakes, sanitize your hands, and wash them properly.

Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, kitchen countertops, wallets, keys, remotes, and door handles. Avoid using public toilets.

One can also regularly wipe down and disinfect BP monitoring machines.

Siddhi Jain, IANS

Second Covid wave to peak by June: CLSA

J

minds during COVID lockdowns

ust about two weeks back I was coincidentally confronted with the most contrasting situation in a market. On the one hand a crowd of people was jostling in front of a wine store, but on the other hand one woman standing near the bookstall which was closed. On my inquiry, she informed that she was looking for a particular physics book for her daughter appearing for Class-12 exam. I noticed a clear feeling of distress overwhelming her since she could not find the book. Having seen the rush at the nearby wine store for bottles of liquor and herself not finding a copy of the book for the daughter appearing the exam must have made the lady think what is quite unthinkable. A question that may have crisscrossed her mind could be why there is no restriction on wine stores --- which has taken a heavy toll on our youths, but a restriction on opening the bookstall. Can we wish away this disgraceful situation standing on the high pedestal of the 21st Century? I am quite bewildered. Something must be amiss so far as “setting the priority” is concerned.

Incidentally, all kinds of academic proficiencies, all kinds of developmental activities and modern advances achieved only because we and our forefathers read and studied the great books.

They read great “works” of Pythagoras, Aristotle, Marshal, Leibniz, Milton, Faraday, Pasteur, Newton, Dalton, Hegel, Engels, Ramanujan, Dickens, and so on and so forth.

So, needlessly to say, for

knowledge our children now entirely depend upon academic institutions and the prescribed textbooks.

But, due to COVID-19, the schools/colleges are almost closed since over a year. Should we now “deprive” our kids of textbooks as well? Come on, let’s cudgel up our brain.

Let’s be more pragmatic.

What could be likely if our school-going children “remain idle” at home for a longer period of time without books? Usually, either they will while away their time playing addictive games or watch frivolous entertainment programs on TV which may not be very healthy to their tender minds.

If the government can consider allowing the hardware shops to open during the containment period why not they consider allowing the bookstalls as well to open to cater to the considerable needs of students in the state ---- of course, under the strict enforcement of Covid norms.

This will doubtlessly keep our children off many “harmful indulgences.”

Moreover, why do we have to limit ourselves to the only idea of construction of new concert buildings and roads and to accelerate urbanization for development? What is more important for the government is to work out the policies that will help encourage our children to “construct” their better minds and improve their “mental ecology”.

For our better tomorrow, we need to educate them in every possible way.

Come what may, the government/parents must be extra careful and make sure

that the lockdown isolation is not adversely affecting the mindsets of our kids.

Due to idleness, they are more likely to fall prey to various wrong habits due to peer pressures. Why don’t we ever think about these inevitable realities?

Are the increasing cases of “drug addiction” and alcoholism among our youths not the bigger challenge to the state?

Here I recall a beautiful quote by a famous American journalist Margaret Fuller --- “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.”

Very true indeed! Great readers usually emerged as great figures in the future.

If each of our individual authorities in the helm of affairs harks back, everything appears like an open book. They all had put “utmost efforts” to read their books for knowledge resulting which they are in the higher positions now. Therefore, to my mind, “books are as essential as food to our body.

They alone can effectively nourish the minds of our children. There are many interesting anecdotes in which Einstein, Edison and Pascal have forgotten their food but they have never forgotten to read in the “good” books. Good books and sports can alone lure children away from bad habits and wrong influences.

Salil Gewali A Shillong-based writer and researcher, best known for his research-based work entitled ‘Great Minds on India’ which was translated into twelve languages. His book has been prefaced by a world-acclaimed NASA Chief scientist– Dr. Kamlesh Lulla of Houston, USA.

Drawing parallels to the second wave of Similarly, this peak coincided when Covid in 12 countries, foreign brokerage incremental cases from the start to the peak CLSA has predicted a peak in daily case of the second wave hit an equivalent of 2 additions for the ongoing wave to broadly per cent of the population (range of 0.5 per happen in May for Maharashtra and June cent to 4.7 per cent), it added. for overall India.

In these countries, it took a median A report by CLSA said this should time of nearly four months for the second pave the way for some relaxations in lock- wave peak from the bottom of the first wave down rules in Maharashtra by mid-May to (range of 2 to 6.5 months). At the peak of mid-June, which may be seen as a playbook the second wave, the 7DMA of percentage for the rest of India. positive cases in these countries hit a median This, along with a pick-up in vac- level of 14.4 per cent, with the exception cinations and comforting management of Mexico (46.6 per cent). commentary during the ongoing results The second wave has just crossed the season, should allay the worst investor fears four-month mark for Maharashtra but it about the second wave over the coming has been a lesser 70 days for India. Thereweeks, it added. fore, India may get to this median mark of India’s total tests, at 20 per cent of four months by mid-June 2021 and India the population, is well below median of ex-Maharashtra by end-June.

50 per cent for key countries. This may Based on the current 7DMA of case suggest a higher level of underreporting additions, reported infections will hit the of cases than other nations which also median level of 2.5 per cent by mid-Jun means the population with antibodies may 2021 in India while Maharashtra has albe much higher than the reported cases, ready crossed this mark. the report said.

At the same pace, India may take The report delved into the detail from nearly two months to get to incremental 12 countries which saw a notable second infections equal to 2 per cent of its popuid you know? Overtaking a vehicle from the left side can be regarded as an wave of Covid-19 to find trends in deter- lation, from 0.5 per cent currently, during illegal move? So, while driving slower than others on the four lane highway mining how this second wave may progress the second wave. between Purana Bazaar and Chumoukedima, please stick to the left lane and when and end in India.

Maharashtra is currently at 1.8 per cent you hear a vehicle honking furiously from behind you, if you’re on the right lane, “Our findings show the 7DMA of and should get to this level in less than a please turn to the left lane so that the vehicle driving faster than you can overtake daily case addition during the second wave week, but India ex-Maharashtra may see a from your right because multiple connecting roads and haphazardly parked vehicles in these countries to have peaked when peak only by the second week of July 2021 on the left side of this stretch of road makes it a dangerous move on the part of reported cumulative infections hit a median at the current pace of cases. level of 2.5 per cent of the population in India’s 7DMA percentage positive of the vehicle driving faster to overtake from your left side. And, two wheeler riders, the respective country (range of 1.3 per tests (20 per cent) has already crossed the please stop scaring me by overtaking me from my left side.

Avilie Nagi, Kuda Village C Khel, Dimapur cent-6.6 per cent),” the report said. median percentage positive.

(IANS) Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

Reader’s Post Know thy rules

D

5

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2021

Rs 2L compensation for post- Union minister’s convoy attacked in WB Central team to probe poll violence victims: Mamata post-poll violence in WB

Kolkata, May 6 (PTI): West Bengal CMMamata Banerjee on Thursday said 16 people have lost their Kolkata, May 6 (PTI): lives in post-poll violence in A four-member fact-finding the state, and announced a team of the Union Home compensation of Rs 2 lakh Ministry, tasked with lookeach for their families. ing into reasons for the postBanerjee, during a press poll violence in West Benmeet here, also said that her gal, arrived in the state on government will provide Thursday. jobs of home guard to one Led by an additional family member each of all secretary of the ministry, five persons killed in CAPF the team visited the state firing in Cooch Behar’s Sisecretariat and held a meettalkuchi area last month. ing with the home secretary She further said that and DGP, sources said. a CID team has initiated a The team, which will probe into the incident of also assess the ground situation in the state, is likely to A team of Home Ministry after a meeting with State BJP firing in Cooch Behar that took place when the voting visit several areas in the city delegation at BSF office in Kolkata, Thursday. (PTI) exercise was underway for as well as South 24 Parga- election results on May 2. assembly polls. nas, Godkhali, Sunderbans Chief Minister MaMeanwhile, Trinamool the fourth phase of assembly and Jaggadal, they said. mata Banerjee on Thursday Congress MLA Firhad HaThe ministry had on said that 16 people have lost kim hit out at the Centre for Wednesday sent a terse re- their lives in post-poll vio- sending teams instead of minder to the West Bengal lence in the state.

COVID-19 vaccines. government to submit a The BJP has alleged “They should send vacdetailed report on the post- that TMC-backed goons cines first, that’s the responpoll violence and to take have killed a number of its sibility of Prime Minister necessary measures to stop workers, attacked women Narendra Modi. We are Chennai, May 6 (PTI): such incidents “without any members, vandalised houses grieved that some people DMK president M K Staloss of time”. It has also and looted shops. have died, and action will be lin’s Cabinet, including him, would be 34-member strong asked West Bengal GovRejecting the charges, taken against the culprits. ernor Jagdeep Dhankar to Banerjee had Wednesday “But, what will happen and he has retained senior give a report on the law and said violence and clashes to the inoculation process leaders like Duraimurugan order situation in the state, were taking place in those which is stalled because of and over a dozen shall be particularly the violence areas where BJP candidates the vaccine crisis?” Hakim ministers for the first time.

Chief Minister-desigthat took place following the emerged victorious in the said. nate Stalin’s list of persons to be appointed as ministers along with their portfolios has been approved by Governor Banwarilal Purohit, a Raj Bhavan release here said. Stalin would be sworn NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): Press and implement a group insurance scheme in as CM on Friday.

Stalin, who would asCouncil of India on Thursday reiterated its for the journalists on the lines of the policy sume office as Chief Minrecommendation to the Centre and state framed by the Haryana government. governments that journalists be included in The Council also recommended to the ister for the first time, shall the category of ‘COVID warriors’ and also Centre and States to include the journalists hold Home and other portgiven insurance cover. in the category of ‘COVID warriors’ like folios including public, genIn a statement, the print media watch- doctors, confer them with the same benefits eral administration, all India dog commended the governments of Od- and give immediate financial assistance to services, district revenue isha, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh who have the families of all those journalists who died officers, special programme considered journalists among “frontline due to COVID-19. The Council, therefore, implementation and welfare workers for their hard work in this pandemic urges the central government as well as of differently abled persons, situation” and have extended financial help state/UT governments to take necessary the release said.

Party veteran and gento them. PCI reiterated its recommendation steps for the welfare of journalists, the eral secretary Duraimuruto the Centre and state/Union territory gov- statement said. Fresh coronavirus cases and ernments regarding insurance of journalists fatalities in India hit a record daily high with gan, who had held portfolios and for including journalists in the category 4,12,262 new infections and 3,980 fatalities like Public Works during of COVID Warriors. being reported, taking the tally of cases to the previous DMK regime While reiterating its resolution of Sep- 2,10,77,410 and the death toll to 2,30,168, tember last year, PCI urged all state govern- according to the Union Health Ministry ments and the central government to frame data updated on Thursday.

elections, on April 10.

“At least 16 persons - mostly from the BJP and the TMC and one of the Samyukta Morcha -- died in post-poll violence. We will pay a compensation of Rs 2 lakh to their family members. Our government will also provide jobs of home guard to the next of kin of Sitalkuchi victims,” she said.

“Not even 24 hours have passed since I was swornin as the CM, and letters, a central team have started arriving. This is because the BJP has not yet reconciled to the mandate of common people. I will request the saffron party leaders to accept the mandate,” she told reporters.

Kolkata, May 6 (PTI): Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan’s car was vandalised at Panchkuri village in West Midnapore district on Thursday while he was visiting the area in connection with alleged post-poll violence on saffron party workers.

Muraleedharan alleged in a tweet that the “TMC goons” were behind the attack on his convoy.

“I went to West Midnapore to meet party workers who have been attacked and their homes were vandalised. I was moving from one house to another with my convoy and then all of a sudden a group of people started charging towards us and attacked,” Muraleedha-

A vandalised vehicle of V Muraleedharan’s convoy allegedly attacked by TMC goons, Thursday. (PTI)

ran said.

“I am safe, but my driver was injured, few car windows were also smashed,” the minister told PTI. BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha who was accompanying the minister claimed that the attack took place despite the presence of the police personnel.

An officer of Kotwali

police station in West Midnapore said that they are probing into the incident of the attack on the minister’s convoy.

“It happened at around 12.30 pm today when some unidentified people attacked the minister’s convoy,” he said. No one has been detained or arrested so far, the police officer said.

Stalin retains seasoned leaders; Rangasamy to be sworn in as Pondy CM today Cabinet to have 34 ministers

Include journalists in ‘COVID warriors’ category: PCI to Centre, state govts

M K Stalin

(2006-11), would be Minister for Water Resources in charge of irrigation projects and others including mines and minerals.

Fo r m e r C h e n n a i Mayor Ma Subramanian and party’s north Chennai strongman, P K Sekarbabu are among those who would be first time Ministers.

Subramanian and Sekarbabu have been allocated the departments of Health and Family Welfare and Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments respectively.

Palanivel Thiagarajan, a former investment

banker, has been allocated Finance and Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi School Education department.

Thiagarajan and Poyyamozhi would be ministers for first time and belong to prominent families that spearheaded the Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu and also worked for the DMK for long.

V Senthil Balaji, who was a transport minister between 2011 and 2015 during the previous AIADMK regime led by J Jayalalithaa and who joined the DMK in 2018, has been given the Electricity Department.

Tiruchirappalli based party strongman and former Minister, K N Nehru has been named Minister for Municipal Administration, a department handled

by Stalin during the party’s previous tenure.

I Periyasamy, who was Revenue Minister in his previous stint in government, has been designated Minister for Cooperation.

Puducherry, May 6 (PTI): AINRC Chief N Rangasamy will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Union Territory of Puducherry at a brief ceremony here on Friday.

Lt Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan would induct Rangasamy as Chief Minister at a brief session on the precincts of Rajnivas here.

Official sources said Rangasamy alone would be inducted as Chief Minister tomorrow although he would be heading an NDA dispensation which has the BJP as the other constituent.

According to party sources, the swearing in of other ministers, including those from BJP willtake place in the next few days.

Usually, the strength of a ministry in Puducherry would be six including Chief Minister. There is however a reported move to have one Deputy Chief Minister now although there is no prec-

N Rangasamy

edent in this regard. A Namassivayam, who joined the BJP in January after quitting the Congress is tipped for the post of Deputy CM. The concurrence of the Centre is awaited for the appointment of Deputy Chief Minister, BJP sources said.

The AINRC bagged 10 seats out of the 16 it contested in the April 6 polls while the BJP garnered six out of the nine seats it contested.

The total strength of the Assembly is 30 and sixteen is the magic number for formation of a ministry.

K-940

Mt. Terogvü Theological College

Zunpha, Tseminyu 797109, Kohima, Nagaland Sponsored by the Council of Rengma Baptist Churches (CRBC) Accredited by Asia Theological Association (ATA) Govt. Regd No. H/RS-5112, 08 Recognized by NBCC x-27/2019

GOVernMenT Of nAGALAnD

Course Offerings: Master of Divinity

Requirements for Admission:

nAGALAnD : KOHiMA

Three Years

A. Secular Graduate B. B.Th Degree with 3rd division A. B.Th Degree with 2nd Division and above

DireCTOrATe Of YOUTH resOUrCes AnD sPOrTs No. DYRS/YS-C/4/2010-15

Dated Kohima, May, 2021

ADVerTiseMenT Applications are invited for eligible Indian Citizens for filling the forms for the Post of Manager and Warden at the Youth Hostel, Dimapur, Nagaland, on Contract Basis for a period of 3 years which is extendable subject to work performance. note: The Warden will be the spouse of the Manager and will be compulsorily required to stay in the hostel where free accommodation will be provided.

The eligibility criteria for the Post of Manager and Warden are as follows:

DC-410

1.

educational Qualification: Graduate in any discipline, having proficiency in English, Hindi and Local Language.

Preference will be given to candidates having degree in Hotel Management/Youth Development/Master of Business Administration/Master of Social Work (MSW)/Licensed Social Worker (LSW).

2.

experience: At least 3 years working experience in the field of Hostel/Hotel Industry or running boarding schools/guest houses or retired Defence Force Officers in the rank of Major/ Lt.Col./Col./equivalent rank of the Army, Navy, Air Force or retired Government Officer of Central/State Government having other working experience of youth activities.

3.

Preference: Preference will be given to local candidate.

4.

Age Limit: Candidate must be between the age group of 35 years to 62 years as on 1st April, 2021 and they can serve up to the age of 65 years.

5.

How to obtain the Application format?

Application can be downloaded from the given link- dyrs.nagaland.gov.in

6.

where/whom to submit the Application?

The Director, Directorate of Youth Resources And Sports, Near Don Bosco Higher Secondary School,Kohima, Nagaland, 797001 or submit through e-mail to dyrs.nagaland@ yahoo.com Note: Last date of submissions of relevant documents will be the 23rd May, 2021 till 4 PM.

7.

Pay scale: Rs. 12,000/- per month only for Manager and Rs. 6000/- per month only for Warden.

DC-427

(AKUMLA CHUBA) nCs DireCTOr Issued by DIPR

Two Years Bachelor of Theology Three Years

A. 10+2 passed Candidates B. Diploma in Theology Passed

Diploma in Theology A. Class 10 Pass candidates B. Any equivalent qualifications Contact Numbers: Principal (9366434764 / 8575768719) Academic Dean (8837304153) K-939 Two Years

NORTH EAST COUNCIL SPONSORED EDUCATION ASSISTANCE TO CHILDREN OF BELOW POVERTY LINE FAMILIES OF NORTH EAST REGION 1. North East Council has been sponsoring education of meritorious students hail from BpL families in assam rifles School, Dimapur.

2. Entrance Test for the academic Year 2021-22 for North East region will be conducted at assam rifles public School, Dimapur for Boarders and Day-Scholars.

3. Students of North East region desiring admission for Class Vi to Class Viii are requested to forward their applications to assam rifles public School (High), 3rd mile, Dimapur piN - 797115.

4. Eligibility Conditions: annual income of family should not exceed rs. 60,000/- per Year.

5. documents required to be submitted :(a) aadhaar Card/ration Card endorsing BpL (Below poverty Line) status duly certified by Govt rep/ issuing authority. (b) Certificate duly signed by Gram pradhan/Village Headman stating that living standard of parents of the student is Below poverty Line. (c) Character Certificate and progress report Card of last two years duly signed by the principal of the School in which the student had last studied. (d) result sheet of past two years duly verified by principal.

Note:- Students who are willing to study in assam rifles public School (High), 3rd mile, Dimapur only need to apply on or before 20 May 2021. Date and time for Entrance Test will be intimated accordingly.

E-mail : www.artcschool@gmail.com 03862-243147/ 09927426396 / 7652061630

DC-425

1. Coordinator: For an organic tea plantation. Bsc/Msc in Agriculture. Experience in organic cultivation, especially tea is desirable.

2. Clerk: Graduate with good verbal and written expression in English. Skill in MS Office & Excel. Experience in maintaining documents in an office is desirable.

• Location for both jobs is Tuli, Mokokchung, Nagaland. Salary as per experience. Apply by e-mail only at tlporganictea@ gmail.com and by 21st May 2021 with detailed cv and mobile number. Date of interview will be informed through email/mobile to shortlisted candidates only.

• Appointment is on contract basis for a year and renewable.

davp 01375/11/0002/2122

VACANCY

national/state

Zila (district) panchayat headship is an indirect election in which the directly elected Zila panchayat members vote to gain administrative control.

The election for over 8.69 lakh posts, including the 3,050 Zila panchayat member seats, was held in four phases last month in Uttar Pradesh. The three-tier panchayat system elected public representatives from the village to the district level and was being seen as a curtain-raiser to the 2022 state assembly polls.

“Seventy per cent population lives in villages and they have given their

mandate against the BJP and in favour of the SP already. We had fielded party supported candidates on approximately 1,500 zila panchayat member seats, of which more than 800 won. Not only this, party’s national president Akhilesh Yadav’s strategy of leaving ‘free candidates’... also worked,” said Chaudhary.

The panchayat elections were not fought on party symbols, but rival parties had marked their preferred candidates.

Chaudhary explained that the term ‘free candidate’ is used to describe party supported candidates.

Punjab, Haryana CMs, SAD chief MP: Junior doctors at six condole death of RLD leader Ajit Singh govt hospitals go on strike

Chandigarh, May 6 (PTI): Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal condoled the demise of former Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Dal leader Chaudhary Ajit Singh on Thursday. Ajit Singh, 82, passed away at a hospital in Gurgaon battling COVID19, his family said.

In a condolence message, the Punjab chief minister described Ajit Singh as a “messiah of farmers”, who always played a proactive role in championing the cause of peasantry. ‘’His enormous contri-

Ajit Singh

bution towards the farmers’ welfare would be ever remembered by one and all,” said Amarinder Singh.

With the death of Ajit Singh, a void has been created in the arena of national politics, which is difficult to be filled, the CM added.

Haryana Chief Min-

Crossword

Su doku

KAKURO

K Y M C

ister Manohar Lal Khattar said Chaudhary Ajit Singh’s demise is a great loss to the country and the farming community.

In a tweet, Khattar said the country has lost a great leader who always fought for the rights of farmers, labourers and the poor.

SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal in a tweet said, “Saddened to hear about the demise of RLD chief & former union minister Ch. Ajit Singh Ji. A champion of farmer’s rights, Chaudhary Sahib fought various battles for the welfare of country’s ‘annadata’. My condolences to @jayantrld, family & followers.”

Bhopal, May 6 (PTI): Junior doctors at six government hospitals in Madhya Pradesh on Thursday went on an indefinite strike for their demands including better treatment facilities for their colleagues who contract coronavirus infection.

The junior doctors who serve in COVID-19 wards are not part of the strike but they too would join in if demands are not met, their association warned.

“We are trying our best to resolve the situation and expecting positive results today itself,” Medical Education Minister Vishwas Sarang told PTI. Of around 3,000 ju-

nior doctors, 15 to 20 per cent have been deployed to treat coronavirus patients.

They too will join the agitation if the state government did not give a written assurance to fulfil the demands by evening, MP Junior Doctors Association (JUDA) president Dr Arvind Meena said.

They did not want to go on strike during the pandemic but had no choice left, he said. “ Fo r t h e l a s t s i x months we have been drawing the state government’s attention to our problems.

On May 3, we got assurance from minister Vishwas Sarang which has not been fulfilled yet,” he told PTI.

No. 9911 Yesterday’s solution No. 9910

No. 4530 Yesterday’s solution No. 4529

No. 3554 Yesterday’s solution No. 3553

Across 3. Heathen (5) 8. Relating to sound (5) 10. Truncheon (5) 11. Removable cover (3) 12. Rains heavily (5) 13. Nonsense, slang (7) 15. Fertile spot (5) 18. Was victorious (3) 19. R oyal residence (6) 21. Re f e r e e ’s i t e m (3,4) 22. Buttress (4) 23. Congeals (4) 24. Cosmetic item (7) 26. Tolerates (6) 29. Err (3) 31. Tribal badge or emblem (5) 32. Arm bone (7) 34. Spring bulb (5) 35. Knock (3) 36. Melodies (5) 37. Street urchin (5) 38. Spools (5) Down 1. Grinding tooth (5) 2. Bereaved husband (7) 4. Nautical cry (4) 5. Overseas (6) 6. Of the nose (5) 7. Pick-me-up (5) 9. Nothing (3) 12. Drawing implements (7) 14. Signal agreement (3) 16. O n e w h o p u t s money away (5) 17. Perceive (5) 19. An exercise (5-2) 20. We t s l a p p i n g sound (5) 21. Post off (5) 23. Common (7) 24. Confuse (6) 25. That man (3) 27. Sham (5) 28. Discourage (5) 30. Student (5) 32. Tor (4) 33. Male sheep (3)

BJP state president and minister: BJP state president and Higher Education & Tribal Affairs minister, Temjen Imna Along expressed sorrow at the sudden demise of Khutovi Aye, describing him as a refined gentleman who had an illustrious career as minister and director of land resources.

In a condolence message, Along said Khutovi’s passing had left a deep void, though his legacy and good deeds would forever remain imprinted and cherished in hearts.

State BJP president also said late Khutovi raised his children in the fear of God and was the beloved father of Dr Akaiho Aye, who is the convenor of medical cell of BJP Nagaland.

Along said the rank and file of BJP Nagaland joined him in conveying their deepest condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones.

N P CC : N a g a l a n d Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has expressed deep grief over the demise of Khutovi Sema, vice president NPCC and ex-minister, and said that he would always be remembered as a gentle, soft spoken, decent and large-hearted leader not only by party rank and file, but by all people who came across him in person.

Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee through its communications department stated that late Khutovi was a rare breed of gentleman politician who had first served the state government and retired as director of the then department of wastelands development (now land resources development).

NPCC said late leader formally joined Indian National Congress in January 2008 and remained committed till his last breath.

Despite failing health over the years, NPCC said Khutovi had remained steadfast in his commitment to the party.

NPCC said his death has sent “deep shockwaves”

ANNOUNCEMENT

We regret to inform you that the wedding reception of Soni Nsu, daughter of Logobu Nsu and Temjensen Jamir son of Subongyapang Jamir which was going to be held at the Heritage Kohima is cancelled due to the ongoing global pandemic.

Thank you.

K-935 Regd. No. 343/20

AFFIDAVIT

Date : 26/10/2020

I, Shri C. CHINGKO PHOM Permanent resident of Yongphang Village in the District of Longleng, State : Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm on oath and declare as follows: 1. That, I am a citizen of India by birth and resident of the above mentioned Address.

2. That, in all the Documents my name has been recorded and reflected as C. CHINGKO PHOM Whereas due to ignorance and clerical mistake my Name has been entered and recorded as C. CHINGKO in my Appointment Order bearing order no. XI NAP (IR)/RO-2/2001-05/88/DT CHUMUKIDIMA the 4th March 2005.

3. That, this Affidavit is made to declare that the name C. CHINGKO PHOM and C. CHINGKO refers to same and one person only that is me.

4. That, this affidavit is made to declare that when the name C. CHINGKO PHOM and C. CHINGKO appears it should be read corrected and understood as 'C. CHINGKO PHOM'.

5. That, the statements made in Para 1 to 4 are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing immaterial has been made or concealed therein. And I sign this Affidavit on this the 26th day of October 2020 at Longleng, Nagaland.

DEPONENT Solemnly Sworn in and declare before me by the above named Deponent on this the 26th day of October 2020 at Longleng, Nagaland.

Identified by: Dp-2343 Advocate NOTARY PUBLIC

vice president Akato Chophi prayed that Almighty provide solace to bereaved family members and friends during their time of grief and departed soul rest in eternal peace.

N P CC m i n o r ity department: Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) minority department mourned the passing of former minister Khutovi Sema and said that in his demise Nagaland has lost very promising leader with clean image and who can understand the masses.

In a condolence message, NPCC minority department state chairman Rajesh Kumar Sethi stated that late leader was a distinguished and charming personality, who would “always remain in our hearts”.

NPCC minority department rank and file extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Khutovi Sema and all the others grieving his untimely death.

AIPC Nagaland: All India Professionals’ Congress (AIPC) Nagaland expressed shock over the demise of Khutovi Sema and said that his selfless contributions towards the party would always be cherished and remembered.

In a condolence message, All India Professionals’ Congress Nagaland president Pretso Therie stated that late Khutovi dedicated his life for the welfare of the public, adding that he was known for his kind heart, soft-spoken and gentle manner in dealing with matters. AIPC conveyed condolences to bereaved family members and prayed that God would grant them solace during this time of pain and sorrow.

WANTED 1. Cook 2. Driver (preferably married) Both non-local, for a private residence in Dimapur with free accommodation.

Contact : 9612951356

Dp-2275

File photo of UP Panchayat polls in process.

won 15 of the 40 wards, BJP and the BSP won seven each and the Congress won five wards. In Ayodhya, SP was the biggest gainer with 24 of the 40 wards, while BJP won six and BSP won five wards. In Gorakhpur, the BJP with 20 of the 68 wards had just one more than the SP’s 19.

In a severe setback to the BJP, the party has lost key districts like - Varanasi, Mathura, Ayodhya, and Gorakhpur in the UP panchayat polls whose results have were declared late Tuesday night. While the rural polls are not fought on party symbols, most parties have backed specific candidates. As per the results, BJP had claimed victory in 900 of the 3030 Zila panchayat wards it contested, while SP claims to have won 1000 seats, BSP 300 seats, Congress and AAP bagged 70 seats each.

This setback to BJP comes a year before the crucial UP polls.

SP president Akhilesh Yadav alleged on Wednesday that the BJP was indulging in “horse-trading” to seize control of zila panchayats.

among Congress rank and file as he was one among the few remaining leaders of older generation whose presence gave stability and guidance to younger generations.

NPCC president K Therie along with all Congress men and women extended heartfelt condolences to Mrs Hutoli and children on the irreparable loss and prayed that the Almighty God give them strength and solace in their hour of grief.

Ex-PAN: Ex-Parliamentarian’s Association of Nagaland (Ex-PAN) has expressed deep pain over the demise of Khutovi Aye and said that his death was not only a loss to his family members but also to the Naga people.

In a condolence message, Ex-Parliamentarian’s Association of Nagaland president Joshua Sumi stated that late Khutovi did well as a technocrat politician and brought about many vibrant innovative ideas in development for the next generations.

Ex-PAN prayed that the Almighty God provide solace and comfort to the bereaved family members at this moment of grief and to rest the departed soul in eternal peace.

NSCN ( Re f o r m a tion): Expressing pain and sorrow over the demise of Khutovi Aye, the NSCN (Reformation) vice president Akato Chophi said that the late leader, one of the first graduates who acquired his degree from Bhubaneswar, has left behind his legacy as a gentleman and an officer for his progeny and his friends to cherish on.

In a condolence message, NSCN (R) vice president Akato Chophi described late Khutovi as “a broadminded frontrunner, a torchbearer and a pioneer in many fields”.

In his demise, Chophi said he said lost a very good brother-in-law, a loving uncle and a daring compatriot with whom “I shared a solemn and mutual respect and love.”

NSCN (Reformation)

URGENT LAND FOR SALE at Khughovi Village, Dimapur Four Lane Touched 90 x 159 sq. ft.

Rs. 230 per sq. ft. (Negotiable) Contact No : 7005794836

Dp-2282

L U C K NOW, M AY 6 (AGENCIES): The Samajwadi Party (SP) on Wednesday claimed to have defeated the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the recently concluded threetier panchayat polls in Uttar Pradesh with party backed candidates winning over 800 zila panchayat member seats, reports The Hindu.

It also claimed that the results were a verdict on the BJP’s ‘misrule’ ahead of the 2022 assembly elections. The BJP disputed the SP’s claims and said it will “emerge as the overall leader” in the polls.

Declaring victory, SP state spokesperson and former UP minister Rajendra Chaudhary said the party “will not waste energy in countering BJP’s horse-trading” to win zila panchayat headship elections that will follow the declaration of panchayat election results.

“We would rather capitalise on putting up an even more impressive show in the UP assembly polls in 2022,” he said.

“If there are more than one deserving candidate... then the party let’s all of them contest. If anyone of them wins, it becomes the party’s victory. On more than 800 seats, SP’s free candidates won the zila panchayat memberships”, he explained.

However, the UP BJP chief Swatantradev Singh dismissed his claims.

“We fought on more than 3,000 seats for the post of zila panchayat members.

The claims of opposition parties that the BJP performed badly are incorrect.

We will remain ahead, and emerge as overall leader in the polls,” he was quoted as saying by a news agency.

On Monday, the ruling party had claimed that over 45,000 party-supported candidates won the village pradhan posts and over 60,000 were elected to the kshetra (block) panchayats apart from the zila panchayat member posts.

As per the results announced on Tuesday, the BJP faced losses in strongholds such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Lucknow and Gorakhpur. In Varanasi, while the Samajwadi Party

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6

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL, KHELHOSHE POLYTECHNIC, ATOIZU, ZUNHEBOTO : NAGALAND

NO. KPA/Exam-2/2012-13/

Dated Atoizu, the 6th May 2021

NOTIFICATION This is to inform all the students concerned of Khelhoshe Polytechnic Atoizu (KPA) that filling up of examination forms for odd semesters (1, 3 & 5) compartmental exams shall be done from 10th May to 14th May 2021 which is to be held in the month of June/July. The students can fill up their form from Google form through the link given in the Institute web site http:// www.kpanagaland.org.in with the payment ID/transaction No. and date after payment of the examination fee of Rs 500/- per semester to the account No 20083721958, IFSC : SBIN0000214. Late submission of forms shall not be entertained by any means. Details of exam routines shall be notified latter in the Institute website. Students are to confirm their compartmental papers by referring their last exams and take due care while filling up the form. Any wrong entries shall not be considered and which will be responsible by the students themselves. For any clarification or queries, students can contact 8731820910 or 8794217386 or email to ruokuo@rediffmail.com.

DC-426

S/d (Er. M. NAKRO) Principal Khelhoshe Polytechnic Atoizu Mob No. 8974468385 K Y M C

Myanmar junta restricts internet, media

CONGRATULATIONS

Burakum Walling Information & Publicity Secy

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With immense pride and honor, we the Nokpu Kaketshir Telongjem, extend our heartiest congratulations to Mr. Benjongakum Longchar, S/o Mr Limyangba Longchar for being elected as the Secretary Social and Culture for the tenure 2021-2023, during the recently held Naga Student’s Federation (NSF) General Conference.

The unions further express our profound happiness for bringing laurels to our community and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

OFFICE OF THE

KOHIMA CHUCHUYIMLANG KAKETSHIR TELUNGJEM (KCKT) Kohima - 797001: Nagaland FELICITATION

Mr. Imlisunup Jamir President

K Y M C

Miss Imkongsenla Jamir General Secretary

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The Kohima Chuchuyimlang Kaketshir Telungjem (KCKT) would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to two beloved daughters of Mr. Imkonglemba Pongener IAS (Retd.) and Mrs. Narola Longkumer on being conferred Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) on their respective research work, namely: 1. Dr. Yangerjungla Pongener, on the topic, “Identity Work of Individuals with Disparate Work Identities” from Organizational Behaviour and Human Resource Management (OBHRM) Area, Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore.

2. Dr. Imlirenla Pongener, on the topic, “Methodology Development for Stereoselective Glycosylations” from School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.

The Union further wishes and prays that our Almighty God continue to guide and bless them in all their future endeavors.

experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases, nearly 2,000 new cases have been reported during each of the last 5 days up from average 200 per day up until mid April.

Described as the New Year cluster coming from the traditional New Year festivities mid April, the current wave is from the fast spreading UK variant, the health authorities said.

Sri Lanka had functioned as a transit hub for Indians visiting other destinations like West Asia and Singapore prior to which they needed to be quarantined for 14 days. This was an arrangement by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

The Sri Lankan tour-

ism authorities were to continue receiving Indian tourists under a travel bubble for which special facilities were set up. This was despite the current difficult situation in India.

However, Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has issued instructions to allow Sri Lankan migrant workers to return to the country.

Last week the Sri Lankan Navy announced as a COVID containment measure that they had increased surveillance of north and northeastern seas to check the possibility of infected Indian fishermen crossing the international waters and making

BEIJING, MAY 6 (AGENCIES): China condemned on Thursday a joint statement by G7 foreign ministers that expressed support for Chinese-claimed Taiwan and cast Beijing as a bully, saying it was a gross interference in China’s internal affairs.

G7 foreign ministers said in a communique after a London summit that China was guilty of human rights abuses and of using “coercive economic policies”, which the G7 would use collective efforts to stop.

In an unusual step, the G7 also said they supported Taiwan’s participation in World Health Organization forums and the World Health Assembly - and expressed concern about “any unilateral actions that could escalate tensions” in the Taiwan Strait.

Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin condemned the statement saying it made “groundless accusations” that were a

Wang Wenbin

gross interference in China’s internal affairs.

“This is the wanton destruction of the norms of international relations,” he said.

The G7 as a group should take concrete action to boost the global economic recovery instead of disrupting it, he added.

Wang also attacked G7 countries for hoarding COVID-19 vaccines and having a “wishy-washy” stance towards helping other countries.

“They should not criticise and interfere in other countries with a highand-mighty attitude, undermining the current top

priority of international anti-pandemic cooperation,” he said.

China regards Taiwan as its own territory and opposes any official Taiwan representation on an international level.

China has also stepped up military activities near Taiwan in recent months, trying to assert its sovereignty claims.

The G7 statement was warmly received in Taipei, where the government said this was the first time the foreign ministers had mentioned the island in their joint communique.

Taiwan’s Presidential Office thanked the G7 for its support.

“Taiwan will keep deepening the cooperative partnership with G7 member countries, and continue to contribute the greatest positive force to global health and people’s well-being, as well as the peace, stability, and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region,” said spokesman Xavier Chang.

WASHINGTON, MAY 6 (PTI): US President Joe Biden is soon expected to make formal announcements on several ambassadorial positions, the White House has said, amid a media report that Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is under active consideration to be the next envoy to India.

When asked about Garcetti’s consideration as the next US envoy to India, the White House refrained from commenting on speculation. “I don’t have any personnel announcements or assessments to make here

from the podium, but hopefully we’ll have some more formal announcements on ambassadors soon,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her daily news conference on Wednesday. A day earlier, a news portal reported that Biden is considering naming the Los Angeles mayor to a high-profile ambassadorship, possibly India.

In December, Garcetti said he had turned down an unspecified job with the Biden administration and would stay in Los Angeles to lead pandemic relief efforts.

OFFICE OF THE KOHIMA SANIS EKHUNG KOHIMA : NAGALAND

FELICITATION

The Kohima Sanis Ekhung (KSE) expresses profound happiness and extends our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Yiben B Humtsoe, S/o. Shri Benrithung Humtsoe for successfully clearing the post of Secretariat Assistant (SA) in the recently declared NPSC result.

The KSE further wishes him more success in his future endeavors.

(Y. Renthungo Murry) (Johnny Erui)

Chairman Secretary Kohima Sanis Ekhung Kohima Sanis Ekhung

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are a total of 143 different councils running elections today, while in Hartlepool in north-east England voters are deciding who should represent them in Westminster.

There are also 13 mayoral elections, including for the London Mayor, and 39 police and crime commissioner elections across England and Wales after these votes were postponed in 2020 because of the pandemic.

People have also been told not to offer anyone outside of their bubble a lift to the polling station, something political parties usually do to encourage people to vote.

Experts predict many more people will have applied for a postal vote this year because of the restrictions. Those who have to self-isolate because of Covid have until 5 pm local time to apply for an emergency proxy vote.

The polls opened at 7 am local time and will close at 10 pm and the results will emerge in the coming days, with some not expected until late on Sunday.

OFFICE OF THE

OFFICE OF THE

CHIECHAMA VILLAGE YOUTH ORGANIZATION

WESTERN SUMI STUDENTS' UNION

KOHIMA : NAGALAND

H.Q. - Thahekhu, Dimapur - 797112 : Nagaland Regd. No. H/rs - 3504

FELICITATION With immense pride and honour, the Chiechama Village Youth Organization would like to congratulate Mr. Viketoulie Metha, S/o Mrs. Kelhouse -ü Metha and Mr. Pekrulhoubei Metha of Chiechama Village, for bringing laurels to the organization and community for achieving the 1st Rank of Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) in the recently declared NPSC Examination 2021.

May the spectacular achievement be a beacon of hope for the upcoming young aspirant of the Organization.

The Union further wishes him the very best in all his future endeavour.

Keneingusa Rüpreo Khriezotuolie Francis

President, CVYO Press Secretary, CVYO

FELICITATION Western Sumi Students Union (WSSU) conveys its heartiest congratulations to Ino. Atokiho Swu former President WSSU on being elected as Vice-President Naga Students' Federation (NSF) The Union wishes him all the best in his future endeavours.

(A. Kughato Achumi)

President, WSSU

(Iuto V. Swu) Info. & Publicity Secy., WSSU

HOLLOTOLI SCHOOL

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR SESSION 2021 – 22 Class XI Arts, Science and Commerce  Registration form can be downloaded from www.hollotolischool.org and submitted to hollotolioffice@gmail.com.  Last date of registration: 15th May, 2021  Students have to submit internal grade marks for class IX and X.  Admission will be on provisional basis.  Boarding facility for boys and girls.  Remedial for boarders.  For more information, kindly contact +91-8415924391 (09:00 AM – 01:00 PM)

IMKONGLEMLA

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LONDON, MAY 6 (PTI): Millions are voting in the so-called “Super Thursday” local elections for mayors and councillors in England, seats in the devolved Scottish parliament and Welsh Assembly as well as a byelection for the Westminster parliament.

It marks the biggest round of polling covering most of the United Kingdom, except Northern Ireland, since the December 2019 General Election just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country.

Up to 48 million people across Britain are eligible to vote in the elections which are being held in a COVIDsecure setting, requiring voters to carry their pens or pencils for the ballot paper.

According to Electoral Commission guidance, voters will also have to wear a face-covering and limits will be in place on how many people can be inside a polling station and social distancing will be required for those volunteering to help out. In Scotland and Wales, the electorate will decide on their national representatives in Holyrood and the Senedd respectively.

In Wales, young people aged 16 and over will get the chance to vote for the first time. Elsewhere there

OFFICE OF THE

Bendangngangshi President

and Tachileik News, have responded with defiance to the junta’s bans, vowing to continue their reporting.

In addition to banning media outlets, the security forces have aggressively targeted journalists for arrest.

At least 71 journalists have been arrested since the February 1 coup, of whom at least 48 remain in detention.

The authorities have charged many of those de-

C O LO M B O, M AY 6 (PTI): Sri Lanka on Thursday announced that all arrivals from India will be banned with immediate effect due to the record rise in COVID-19 cases in the neighbouring country.

Several countries like the UK, the UAE, Australia and Singapore have already banned travellers from India as well as other South Asian countries.

The Civil Aviation Authority on Thursday said that travellers from India will not be allowed to disembark in Sri Lanka. The decision has been taken as the coronavirus continues to spread rapidly in India.

The Director General Civil aviation in a letter to the CEO of the national carrier Srilankan Airlines has said, “in accordance with instructions received from health authorities of Sri Lanka due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation, it is hereby directed that passengers travelling from India will not be permitted to disembark in Sri Lanka with immediate effect.”

Sri Lanka is currently

Britain votes in local polls China condemns G7 statement Formal announcements for mayors, councillors censuring Beijing, supporting Taiwan on ambassadors soon: WH

NOKPU KAKETSHIR TELONGJEM

extends from ground to air in an unprecedented way and Myanmarese people can only look forward to the global community to redress their plight.

On May 4, the junta also announced that it was banning two more media outlets, Kachin-based 74 Media and Shan-based Tachileik News Agency, increasing the number to eight. Many of those outlets, including 74 Media

After UK, UAE, Aus and Singapore, Sri Lanka ban travellers from India

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ISLAMABAD, MAY 6 (PTI): A top Pakistani court hearing the case of death row convict Kulbhushan Jadhav has asked India to cooperate in the legal proceeding over the matter, saying appearing before the court did not mean a waiver of sovereignty. A three-member bench of the Islamabad High Court, comprising Chief Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, on Wednesday resumed hearing of the petition by Pakistan’s Ministry of Law and Justice seeking appointment of a lawyer for Jadhav.

Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan told the bench that to comply with the ruling of the ICJ, Pakistan last year promulgated the law, CJ (Review and Reconsideration) Ordinance, 2020, to enable Jadhav to avail himself of the statutory remedy, Dawn newspaper reported.

However, he argued, the Indian government deliberately avoided joining court’s proceedings and was raising objections to a trial before a Pakistani court and had declined to even appoint a counsel for the IHC’s proceedings saying it “is tantamount to surrendering sovereign rights”.

said Linda Lakhdhir, Asia legal advisor at Human Rights Watch.

“The junta should immediately withdraw its outrageous blanket censorship and end its relentless assault on news reporting.”

The ban on satellite television is part of the military’s full-scale attack on the country’s media, alleged Mizzima chief editor Soe Myint. He told IANS the military crackdown now

tained, including Japanese freelance reporter Yuki Kitazumi, with violating a new provision in the penal code adopted by the junta that makes it a crime to publish or circulate comments that “cause fear” or spread “false news”. Those convicted face up to three years in prison.

The authorities have imposed severe restrictions on the internet, making it very difficult for people to access or to share information.

Mobile internet data and wireless broadband have been turned off for more than six weeks, and Facebook and other social media platforms popular in Myanmar have been blocked since the coup.

“The Myanmar junta’s increasingly desperate efforts to block those inside the country from accessing independent news and information won’t hide the truth about its ongoing violations of rights,” HRW’s Lakhdhir said. “Concerned governments should use their wide array of tools, including arms embargos and targeted sanctions, to pressure the junta to end its rights abuses and bring those responsible to account.”

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Pak court asks India to cooperate in Jadhav case

Anti-coup protesters flash the three-finger sign of defiance during a demonstration in Yangon, Myanmar on April 23. (AP/PTI)

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K O L K AT A , M AY 6 (IANS): The Myanmar junta has banned satellite television after imposing severe restrictions on the Internet and media, provoking global rights groups to protest the military’s tightening grip over information flow in the country.

The ruling State Administration Council announced this week that anyone using satellite dishes to watch television will face up to one year in prison or a fine of 500,000 kyat ($320).

The militar y junta claimed that “illegal organisations and news agencies” were broadcasting programs via satellite that threaten state security.

The ban appears targeted at independent Burmese language broadcasters such as the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB) and Mizzima, which have continued broadcasting via satellite since the junta revoked their operating licenses in March.

The ban will also affect foreign news channels broadcast via satellite into Myanmar. “The satellite TV ban is a blatant attempt to deny access to independent news broadcasts and further isolate Myanmar’s people,”

7

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2021

K Y M C

sports

8

Chelsea beat Real; to face City in UCL final

LONDON, MAY 6 (IANS): Chelsea set up an all-England Champions League final against Manchester City as Timo Werner and Mason Mount settled their last four second leg tie against Real Madrid.

Werner headed in from almost on the goal-line after Germany team-mate Kai Havertz hit the bar and Chelsea spurned several chances before Mount secured a 2-0 victory, DPA reports.

Following last week’s 1-1 draw in the first leg in Madrid, the win on Wednesday was enough for Chelsea to reach a first Champions League final since they lifted the trophy in nine years ago. It also returns manager Thomas Tuchel to the final after he lost the showpiece last season with Paris SaintGermain against Bayern Munich.

Tuchel has tur ned Chelsea’s season around since his appointment in late January as replacement for Frank Lampard with a top four berth in the league looking likely. And they will not fear domestic champions-elect City in Istanbul

Chelsea team-mates celebrate after scoring against Real Madrid during the Champions League semi-final match on May 5.

on May 29 having already defeated Pep Guardiola’s otherwise all-conquering side in the FA Cup semis to set up a final with Leicester City two weeks before their big day in Turkey.

Chelsea and City also meet in a dress rehearsal in Manchester on Saturday where the hosts can confirm the Premier League title if they win the match.

Tuchel transforming Chelsea mid-season will spark memories of Roberto

Di Matteo doing so after his appointment in March 2012, months before Chelsea stunned Bayern in Munich to lift their only title in the tournament.

“We deserved to win,” Tuchel said. “We could have scored so much earlier, so much more to be safe, but now is no time for criticism”.

“It is a fantastic achievement and big congratulations to the team”.

N’Golo Kante surged

through the midfield to set up the 28th minute opener and though Havertz’s delicate chip landed on the bar, Werner couldn’t miss the rebound.

Karim Benzema, who scored for Real in the first leg, was twice denied by Edouard Mendy as the guests showed a rare bit of urgency.

Other Zinedine Zidane’s side limped to defeat and ended their coach’s previous perfect record in Champions League semi-finals.

When Kante won the ball in midfield and released Christian Pulisic, the American crossed for Mount five minutes from time and Real were done.

“We can say that yes, they deserved the win,” Zidane told Movistar. “We fought and tried but they deserved to win and go through”.

“I’m proud of my boys: we tried, we have got this far - just one game from the final.”

The second half had been a string of Chelsea chances as the Real defence, even with the influential Sergio Ramos back from a three-month absence due to a calf injury, frequently in tatters.

Havertz and Mason Mount both struck the bar while only one-on-one saves

by Thibaut Courtois on Havertz and Kante kept Real’s outside chance alive a little longer.

Chelsea were rarely troubled in reaching their third final with the first lost against the other Manchester side, United in 2008, in Moscow.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2021

Madrid Open: Ashleigh Barty gets Paula Badosa revenge to reach final

Ashleigh Barty

M A D R I D, M A Y 6 (AGENCIES): Ashleigh Barty cruised into the Madrid Open final on Thursday with a 6-4, 6-3 win over Paula Badosa, as the world number one avenged last month’s loss to the Spaniard in Charleston.

Barty, the 2019 French Open champion, is targeting a fourth title of the year following her wins at Melbourne’s Yarra Valley Classic, in Miami and on clay in Stuttgart.

The top seed shaded a tight opening set against the 62nd-ranked Badosa,

the first Spanish woman in the tournament’s 12year history to make the semi-finals. She converted her third set point when Badosa doubled faulted at 4-5, a single break of serve proving decisive for the Australian.

Barty dropped serve herself to start the second set but broke twice in succession to regain control and make it 16 straight wins on red clay. She will play fifth seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus or Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in Saturday’s final.

Dominic Thiem qualified for the men’s quarterfinals after beating Australia’s Alex de Minaur 7-6 (9/7), 6-4.

US Open champion Thiem, playing his first tournament since Dubai in March, will meet Andrey Rublev or John Isner in the last eight.

Thiem lost his serve in the opening game but recovered with a break for 3-all. He missed a set point in the tie-break and then saved one before clinching the first set at the second attempt.

The Austrian third seed withstood three break points early in the second set and then broke De Minaur the following game.

De Minaur, the world number 24, hit back to level at 3-all but promptly dropped serve the next game as Thiem secured victory in just under two hours.

Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan also progressed to the quarter-finals with a 6-4, 6-3 win over in-form Russian Aslan Karatsev.

Difficult to say how IPL 2021 Mary Kom on her personal coach being down with Covid bio-bubble was breached: Ganguly NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (IANS): Indian cricket board president Sourav Ganguly said that it is difficult to say how the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) biobubble was breached and the report that the board got had shown that there was no breach.

The 2021 IPL was postponed this week after multiple Covid-19 cases emerged within the tournament’s bio-bubbles in Ahmedabad and New Delhi.

“The report we got is that there’s no breach of the bubble. How it happened is very difficult to say. How so

Sourav Ganguly

many people are getting (infected) in the country is also very difficult to say,” Ganguly told Indian Express.

Ganguly said that “it is too early to say” whether there is a window available

to resume the season. He also said that while there was a discussion to host the tournament in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to hold it in India as there were hardly any Covid-19 cases in the country.

“It was discussed, but the (COVID-19 cases) in India in February was (virtually) nothing. It has just gone through the roof in the last three weeks. Before that it was nothing. We discussed about the UAE but then decided to do it in India,” he said.

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (IANS): Six-time world champion and Olympicbound boxer MC Mary Kom won’t have personal coach Chhote Lal Yadav by her side at the women’s national boxing camp after he tested positive for Covid19. The camp is supposed to start in Pune this week.

Yadav is undergoing a 15-day quarantine at New Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. “It is a difficult situation. Last week my Covid-19 report was negative. Since then I haven’t interacted with anyone but my Wednesday’s Covid-19 test revealed that I’m positive. I was supposed to join the national camp in Pune.

MC Mary Kom

But after the positive report, Sports Authority of India I can’t go. I’m alright but will (SAI),” Yadav told IANS. have to follow the CovidMary Kom, however, 19 protocols laid down by reached Pune on Thursday.

“I’ve given Mary Kom all the details of how to maintain fitness during her seven days in quarantine in Pune,”

the coach said of the challenging times.

The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) on had Wednesday announced names of 10 elite women boxers for the camp. The national team would also compete at the upcoming Asian Boxing Championships starting May 21 in Dubai. “Only Mary Kom has reached the venue. Others are yet to report,” said a boxing coach familiar with the development.

Mary Kom (51 kg), Simranjit Kaur (60 kg), Lovlina Borgohain (69 kg) and Pooja Rani (75 kg) are the four women boxers who have qualified for the Tokyo Olympics starting July 23.

Blow for Saina, Srikanth as India withdraw from Malaysia Open Kadiyan, Malik reach quarterfinals in Sofia NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (IANS): Kidambi Srikanth and Saina Nehwal’s chances of making it to this year’s Tokyo Olympics are all but over after the Indian contingent withdrew from the Malaysian Open on Thursday.

Malaysia has imposed a ban on travellers from India, which is witnessing a massive surge in Covid-19 cases during the second wave.

“The Indian badminton team will have to withdraw from the Malaysian Open, scheduled from May 25 to 30, owing to a temporary travel restriction imposed by the Malaysian Government on travellers from India,” said the Sports Authority of India (SAI) on Thursday.

MalayAffairs, approached the sia Open was the second Malaysian last event authorities that prorequesting to vided points per mit the for Olympic Indian team qualification, to particiwith the fipate. The latnal qualifier ter, however, tournament denied the being the request, thus Singapore leading to Open Super the pull-out.

Saina Nehwal Kidambi Srikanth 500 tournaThere was no ment scheduled to be held Nehwal, Kidambi Srikanth, official update on the SingaSai Praneeth, Satwiksairaj pore Open. from June 1 to 6. “ T h e t o u r n a m e n t Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, The Badminton Assois one of the last events Ashwini Ponnappa and ciation of India (BAI) had that contribute to Olympic Sikki Reddy were due to earlier said that it hopes to qualification which ends participate,” said SAI. send players to Malaysia via It further said that the Doha, Qatar. on June 15. All top Indian singles and doubles play- Sports Ministry, through “Currently as per the ers like PV Sindhu, Saina the Ministry of External guidelines laid out, for any

Indian to enter Singapore, they have to either be in quarantine in a foreign country other than India for 14 days before they will be allowed to enter Singapore.

Alternatively, all players have to maintain a 21-day quarantine period in Singapore,” BAI had said on April 29.

If they are allowed to participate in the Singapore Open, Saina and Srikanth will at least have to make it to the final while hoping that players placed above them don’t finish ahead of them. Additionally, players currently ranked above the duo could earn further points based on their performances in the Malaysian Open.

SOFIA (BULGARIA), MAY 6 (PTI): Satywart Kadiyan and Sumit Malik kept the Indian hopes alive by reaching the quarterfinals but it was all over for Amit Dhankar, who was ousted from the World Olympic Qualifiers after losing his opening bout, here on Thursday.

Dhankar lost his 74kg Qualification bout 6-9 to Moldova’s Mihail Sava.

After trailing 0-4, Dhankar put up a spirited fight in the second period, but the Moldovan was up to the task. Dhankar’s defeat means that India will go unrepresented in the 74kg at the Tokyo Games. This is the last Olympic qualifying event and Satywart Kadiyan (97kg) and Sumit Malik

Satywart Kadiyan and Sumit Malik

(125kg) are still in the hunt.

Kadiyan won his prequarterfinal 5-2 against Evan Amadour Ramos from Puerto Rico. He led 3-0 in the first period, but a takedown move by his rival threatened his chances before the Indian got another two-pointer to win easily.

In his 125kg Qualifica-

tion bout against Kyrgyzstan’s Aiaal Lazarev, Sumit was trailing 1-2 till the last 25 seconds of the bout but got a push-out point towards the ends and won on criteria, when the scores were 2-2.

His next bout was against Moldova’s Alexandr Romanov. He trailed 0-1 after losing a point on passivity.

Reigning TT world champion Liu Weightlifter Hubbard poised to become first transgender Olympian suffers twin losses in ‘simulation’

XINXIANG (CHINA), MAY 6 (IANS): Reigning world champion Liu Shiwen suffered two failures in one day and was ousted from both the women’s singles and mixed doubles quarterfinals at China’s table tennis Olympic simulation here on Wednesday.

The 30-year-old player, partnering Xu Xin, was shown the door by compatriots Zhou Yu/Chen Xingtong in the mixed doubles event.

The world No.7 singles player also suffered a straight-set defeat at the hands of world No. 6 Zhu Yuling, reports Xinhua.

A record five-time World Cup winner and a member of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games women’s team championship-winning squad, Liu has been reckoned as a promising prospect at the Olympic

Liu Shiwen

Games in Tokyo, to be held in July-August.

In Wednesday’s lasteight encounter, Liu seemed out of options when facing once-top-ranked Zhu Yuling, giving up easily 11-9, 11-3, 15-13, 11-8.

The only sparkle from Liu came at the fag end of the third set before Zhu’s

coach Qiu Yike called a timeout at 14-13 in Zhu’s favour and the Sichuan native came back on the court and wrapped up the set with no hesitation.

“It was a very important timeout for me since I’d wasted several set points on my own serve,” Zhu said after the match.

TOKYO, MAY 6 (AGENCIES): Weightlifter Laurel Hubbard is set to become the first transgender athlete to compete at an Olympics after qualifying for the rescheduled Tokyo Games due to a rule change, Inside the Games website reported on Wednesday.

Hubbard was effectively guaranteed a spot in the women’s super heavyweight category, the report from the Olympics-focused trade publication said, after the International Olympic Committee approved an amendment to the rules as the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of many qualifying competitions.

New Zealander Hubbard, 43, has not yet been named to the national women’s weightlifting team going to the Tokyo Olympic Games.

Hubbard competed in men’s weightlifting competi-

Laurel Hubbard

tions before transitioning in 2013. She has been eligible to compete in the Olympics since 2015, when the IOC issued new guidelines allowing any transgender athlete to compete as a woman

provided their testosterone levels are below 10 nanomoles per litre for at least 12 months before their first competition.

Weightlifting has been at the centre of the debate

over the fairness of transgender athletes competing in women’s sports, and Hubbard’s presence in Tokyo is set to attract huge media attention as well as criticism from fellow lifters and

coaches.

Her gold medal wins at the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa, where she topped the podium ahead of Samoa’s Commonwealth Games champion Feagaiga Stowers, triggered outrage in the island nation.

Australia’s weightlifting federation sought to block Hubbard from competing at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast but organisers rejected the move.

USA Weightlifting said it had no issue with Hubbard competing in the Games.

“We respect the rules established by the International Weightlifting Federation and the International Olympic Committee for qualification and will be focusing on assisting our athletes to compete against all those who are qualified for the Tokyo Games,” spokesman Kevin Farley told Reuters.

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