7 May 2023

Nagaland Post

Ukraine shoots down Russian hypersonic missile using US Patriot

IMPHAL, MAY 6 (PTI/ IANS):

Salt keeps Delhi Capitals alive in IPL

Death toll in Manipur violence rise to 54 Charles III Crowned King Of United Kingdom at

The death toll in the ethnic violence which has engulfed Manipur increased to 54 including women, officials said even as unofficial sources placed the figure at several scores dead and more than 150 injured.

Of the 54 officially declared dead, 16 bodies were kept in the morgue of the Churachandpur district hospital while 15 bodies were in Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences in Imphal East district, officials said. The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences at Lamphel in Imphal West district reported 23 dead, the official said.

“Over 100 people have been injured in these attacks.

More than 500 houses, along with a large number of vehicles, shops and other properties were either burnt down or damaged in these attacks since May 3,” Manipur government’s newly-

appointed security advisor Kuldiep Singh, a former CRPF chief, told the media in Imphal on Saturday.

A Defence spokesperson told PTI that a total of 13,000 people were rescued and shifted to safe shelters, some in army camps as the army brought Churachandpur, Moreh, Kakching and Kangpokpi districts under its “firm control”.

Life returned to a wary normalcy in Imphal Valley on Saturday as shops and markets reopened and cars

started plying on the roads.

Security presence which has been bolstered by flying in more army troops and central police forces, was clearly visible at all major roads and areas. Roadblocks and cordons have been set up in areas where militant groups had engaged security forces on Friday.

Large number of people including students were seen assembled at Imphal airport to try get a flight out of the troubled state.

Nearly 10,000 army, para-military and central police forces have been deployed in the state.

Demand for PR gains traction: A public petition has been raised on Change. org demanding President’s rule in Manipur which has seen mobs going on a rampage in clashes between Kuki tribe and Meitei community. The petition has so far garnered more than 46,000 signatures of who appear to be local citizens and the count is increasing.

The public petition started by Sarvodaya Sangam states, “we appeal to the President of India to ensure peace in the state. She belongs to the indigenous tribal community, and we expect her to empathize with the vulnerable communities of the state

The public petition also appeals for peace on both warring communities and wishes to spread the mes -

22 buses to bring back stranded Nagas today

Correspondents

KOHIMA, MAY 6 (NPN):

Nagaland government on Saturday morning despatched 22 buses to evacuate Nagas stranded in violencehit Manipur.

According to officials, the government initially sent 17 buses—NST and police buses, while three NST buses were already stationed in Imphal. The buses left at around 4 a.m. and reached Impal around 5.30 p.m. under the supervision of SDPO (North) Kohima, Sheta Lohe, officials said.

Talking to reporters,

NIPF appeals govt to set up ILP booths

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Nagaland Indigenous People’s Forum (NIPF) has appealed to the state government to immediately open/ establish Inner Line Permit checking booths at various locations in Dimapur.

Taking note of the rise in number of non-indigenous people in Nagaland, particularly in Dimapur area, the forum suggested opening ILP booths at-Shokhuvi Railway Station, Dellai Gate, New Fields, Burma Camp and Dimapur Airport.

The forum also requested the government to open/ establish ILP booths in all the entry points in all district headquarters and sub-divisions, install CCTV in all the entry points in Nagaland and to conduct timely inspection in all the municipal wards, towns councils and villages.

state deputy chief minister Y Patton informed that a total of 22 buses were deployed to bring back Nagas stranded in Manipur. In addition to the buses sent in the morning, five more were

despatched to Manipur, he added. Patton informed that two Nagaland police platoons-- IRBn and Mahila battalion personnel along with CRPF and Assam Rife-

ls were also sent to provide security. However, upon reaching Senapati, the buses were stranded for some time awaiting security clearance. Sources from Senapati informed Nagaland Post that there may have been some security issues. However, the matter was resolved as Assam Riles personnel were tasked to provide security. When contacted, commandant 1st Assam Rifles Col. Umesh Sati informed that the buses left Senapati with AR security personnel and reached Imphal by Saturday evening.

Patton meets victims of Manipur violence

600 persons were stranded as of now. He said state government was taking special care of not only the students but also the citizens of Nagaland who were stranded there.

sage of peace and to sit across the table and talk. According to reports, four people were shot dead in Churachandpur when security forces were carrying out evacuation of Meiteis in the area. Meanwhile, the Indian Revenue Service Association said a tax assistant identified as Letminthang Haokip had been killed in Imphal. “No cause or ideology can justify the killing of an innocent public servant on duty,” the association tweeted.

Muan Hansingh (24), a researcher and resident of Churachandpur, told The Indian Express that unrest in the town began around 7 pm Friday.

“Because of the deployment of security personnel, people are not moving out of their homes. Around 7 pm, we got information that Meitei people stranded in the town are going to be evacuated by security personnel.

Westminster Abbey

LONDON, MAY 6 (AP):

King Charles III was crowned Saturday at Westminster Abbey, in a coronation ceremony steeped in ancient ritual and brimming with bling at a time when the monarchy is striving to remain relevant in a fractured modern Britain.

In displays of royal power straight out of the Middle Ages, Charles was presented with an orb, a sword and sceptre and had the solid gold, bejeweled St. Edward’s Crown placed atop his head as he sat upon the 700-year-old oak Coronation Chair. In front of world leaders, foreign royals, British aristocrats and stars, Charles declared: “I come not to be served but to serve.” Inside the medieval abbey, trumpets sounded and the congregation of more than 2,000 shouted “God save the king!” It was the culmi-

nation of a seven-decade journey for the king from heir to monarch.

To the royal family and government, the occasion — code-named Operation Golden Orb — was a display of heritage, tradition and spectacle unmatched around the world. To the crowds gathered under rainy skies — thousands of whom had camped overnight — it

was a chance to be part of a historic occasion. And to a few, it was reason to protest. Hundreds who want to see Britain become a republic gathered to holler “Not my king.” They see the monarchy as an institution that stands for privilege and inequality, in a country of deepening poverty and fraying social ties. A handful were arrested.

Manipur violence: More organisations appeal for peace

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): More organisations including Church bodies and civil society groups have expressed concern over the violence that was witnessed in different parts of Manipur and have appealed for peace and calm.

ABCC: Angami Baptist Church Council (ABCC) expressed deep sadness at the violence in Manipur and the consequent sufferings faced by people in general and the Christian community in particular.

In a statement, ABCC executive director Rev. Dr. Rachülie Vihienuo strongly

DMC revises and refixes pork rates

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) has revised and refixed the rates of various cut meat with immediate effect.

condemned the “mindless atrocities” meted out against innocent civilians, the merciless killings, vandalizing of properties, and burning of churches and institutions.

Asserting violence begets violence, ABCC has, therefore, appealed to the people of Manipur to shun violence immediately and choose the path of mutual respect and peaceful negotiations so that peace and brotherhood could prevail.

ABCC affirmed solidarity with the victims, their families, and Christian brothers and sisters. It prayed that God Almighty

protect the people of Manipur and heal all differences.

KBAN: Kuki Baptist Association Nagaland (KBAN) expressed deepest sorrow over the “unfortunate violence” in Manipur, saying “such act of madness” would never justify whatever be the reason.

In a statement, KBAN president Seilun Singson and executive secretary Rev. Dr. David Vaiphei condemned the inhuman killings, arson and desecration of churches.

KBAN urged the authorities to leave no stone unturned to save the hapless victims who were living in

fear, and without daily basic needs. KBAN also called upon all its members to pray steadfastly so that normalcy returned and peace reigns at the earliest.

KBAN hoped that law enforcing agencies would perform their duties with no fear and biasness so the trust and faith the public have upon them was restored.

GNF: Global Naga Forum (GNF) expressed shock at the riots that have unfolded over the past days in Manipur and appealed for an end to violence on all fronts.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 6 (NPN): Nagaland deputy chief minister, Y Patton, visited the victims of Manipur violence, who were admitted at a private hospital in Kohima on Saturday and also extended financial aid.

Altogether eight patients (three in ICU) with

NEW DELHI, MAY 6

(AGENCIES): Providing reservation to women in urban local bodies would have led to an “anomalous” situation in the state depriving similar benefits to women in rural areas, said the Nagaland government.

According to Hindustan Times report, this development comes in wake of a recent affidavit submitted in the Supreme Court which had sought an explanation from the state for going back on its promise to implement 33% women reservation in urban municipalities in the upcoming civic polls this month.

Coming out with this

severe injuries including bullet wounds are undergoing treatment at the hospital. Addressing the media after the visit, Patton said the patients were out of danger, adding that the hospital authorities were taking good care of the patients.

Patton disclosed that the evacuation exercise would continue as over

constitutional argument to justify its March 29 decision to repeal the Nagaland Municipal Act under which women reservation was promised, the state chief secretary in an affidavit filed last week said that Nagaland faced a “peculiar situation” as municipalities under the Constitution Part IXA apply to the state while the operation of Panchayats under Part IX stand specifically excluded by Article 243M.

“This has created an anomalous situation in the state whereby women living in the urban areas can claim reservation whereas their counterparts in rural areas do not have such a benefit,”

On the report of buses being stopped at Senapati, Patton said he had urged Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh to allow buses deployed for evacuation. He said Manipur CM had assured to protect Nagas settled in Manipur.

Terming the Manipur incident as “very unfortunate”, the deputy chief minster wished speedy recovery to the injured and urged the Manipur government to settle the issue once and for all.

Nagaland chief secretary (CS) said.

He further explained, “This creates a peculiar situation whereby two women living within a distance of as little as 2 km, or even less, from each other are being put in an inequitable position.”

The geographical makeup of the state is such that there is often no clear demarcation between village areas and municipal areas and villages often surround and merge with the municipal areas, informed the state.

In view of such peculiar and unique circumstances prevailing in the state, the affidavit said, “The Government will have to consider

In an order, DMC administrator W Manpai Phom informed that Pork (Wholesale) has been fixed at Rs.200 per kg, Pork (Dressed) at Rs.300 per kg and offal (Head, hoof, Intestine) at Rs. 230 per kg. DMC stated that the prescribe rate was the maximum amount it has fixed and has to be followed strictly by the pork seller. It also directed butchers to provide quality and hygienic meat and to keep the stall hygienic as per the norms. Failing to comply with the directive, DMC cautioned of appropriate action.

such disparity, also taking into consideration the fact that Article 371A (special provisions for Nagaland) of the Constitution applies to the entire State of Nagaland.”

Article 371A states that any Central Act passed by Parliament in respect of religious or social practices of the Nagas, Naga customary law and procedure, administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Naga customary law, and ownership and transfer of land and its resources, cannot apply to the state unless the Nagaland Assembly adopts it by passing a resolution.

situation if women quota in ULB: govt to SC

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla wave to the crowds from the balcony of Buckingham Palace, Saturday. (AP/PTI)

Buses despatched to Manipur to bring back stranded Nagas. (NP)

Displaced people at a make-shift camp setup by security forces.

Patton interacting with family a member of an injured victim.

6 districts get MICTC vehicles

DIMAPUR: Six mobile Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (MICTC) vehicles for Kiphire, Phek, Peren, Dimapur, Mokokchung and Zunheboto districts was flagged off by Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Y. Kikheto Sema at the Directorate of Health & Family Welfare (H&FW) Kohima, Saturday.

According to a DIPR report, Sema thanked the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) for recognising the challenges and the need of Nagaland state health service, specially pertaining to difficult terrains and hard to reach areas by taking a herculean step in replacing ten old existing MICTC vehicles.

He said on February 16, 2023, four districts, namely Mon, Longleng, Tuensang, and Noklak received new mobile ICTC vehicles, and added that the remaining Wokha and Kohima districts would be

receiving the vehicles within a short period. Stating that Nagaland was one of the HIV and AIDS epidemics state, Sema said, visualizing the needs of the state, government of India has considered replacing all new vehicles. He informed that these new vehicles come with more responsibility to deliver and so the officials

KSSU holds 3rd biennial conference

DIMAPUR: The 3rd biennial conference-cum-felicitation programme of Kohima Sumi Students’ Union (KSSU) was held on May 6 at State Academy Hall, Kohima on the theme “Youth Pillar of Socio-Economic, Political and Religious Structure: A Reflection”.

Sericulture deptt. holds coordination meet with advisor

of NCACS shall try to cover every length and breadth of the districts, he said.

Pointing out that Nagaland has an adult HIV prevalence rate at 1.61%, which is the second highest in the country as against the national average of 0.22%, he urged the officers of the department to work together with NGOs in synergy and scale up all efforts

to test, treat and educate the masses about this disease as well as other diseases which are envisaged to eliminate by 2030 along the line of SDG Goal. The keynote address was delivered by Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) projector director, Akuo Sorhrie while deputy director, Asenla chaired the programme.

The event was graced by advisor, Land Resource Department, G Ikuto Zhimomi as guest speaker and deputy director, NSACS, Ainato Yeptho as theme speaker. Kohima Sumi Hoho, president, Khevito T Shohe, exhorted the gathering and Kohima Sumi Totimi Hoho president, Piholi Swu, felicitated the female achievers and also the president of all Sumi Students Union exhorted the delegates.

In the second session, president of Kohima Sumi Officers Union, Warren Holohon Yepthomi addressed the gathering.

Imkongmar with the officials at the coordination meeting in Kohima. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Department of sericulture organised its first co-ordination meeting with advisor, Minority Affairs & Sericulture, Imkongmar at its the Directorate Conference Hall, Kohima, Saturday. According to a DIPR report, advisor, Imkong -

mar appreciated the director and the staff of the department for organizing the meeting and giving him the opportunity to meet the district controlling officers. He called for more of such timely meetings to update the activities of the department.

Various programmes organised for students, faculty IMLF

DIMAPUR: As part of the academic curriculum and extracurricular activities, educational institutions and other organisations organised various programmes for the students and faculty.

JCC: A national seminar on the theme, “Naga Women Traditional Attires: Celebrating Us” was organised by the Women Cell/ Anti Sexual Harassment Cell, Japfu Christian College, Kohima in collaboration with IQAC, JCC and powered by Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) on May 6.

The guest speakers of the seminar were UoH, Professor Ajailu Niumai, author Dr. Easterine Kire and Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Kohima College.

In her prelude, Dr. Kire remarked that “every Naga cloth has been conceived and created by woman’s hand and a woman’s mind, not by the hands of a man”. Kire also stated that wearing Naga traditional attire was the closest to experiencing what it could be like to wear a poem. She then stressed on the importance of documenting the many designs on Naga clothes and collecting valuable information on the art of weaving before it was too late to ensure “the celebra-

tion goes on for years and years”.

Professor Ajailiu Niumai spoke on the topic “attires as symbol of cultural identity” and stated that Naga attires are unique to their cultural identity. “It serves as a symbol of our Naga cultural heritage and as such we should not be ashamed but promote it”, said Professor Ajailiu. She also stressed on the importance of preserving, promoting and learning the art of weaving to safeguard our rich Naga cultural heritage and identity.

Delivering key note address during the second session, JCC principal Dr. Visakhonu Hibo stated that the Naga attires are empowered and remarked that Nagas need to tap in the empowering vibes that their traditional attires offer and celebrate the colours of Nagaland.

The guest speaker for the second session, Dr. Thieyiesinuo Keditsu stated that “mekhala” was one of the most democratic, inclusive garments available for Naga women.

She also expressed her regret on how western culture and education has made Nagas’ strangers in their own land. She questioned “How can we

women celebrate us without self-awareness, self-knowledge about us?”, and stated that women cannot come to full knowledge about themselves by consuming a tradition of knowledge produced by men about women. She remarked that Naga women should encourage each other to engage in the growing body of knowledge produced by women in the form of their textiles and attires.

FAC: A career guidance programme was organised by the Fazl Ali College, Career Guidance Cell on May 6 with assistant professor of Library and Information Science, Bishop Heber College, Tamil Nadu, Dr Yesan Sellan as the resource person. At the programme, Dr. Yesan spoke on the importance of pursuing higher education and highlighted the need to acquire employability skills. He emphasized on the handson- training courses relating to library and information science and its career prospects. The programme was sponsored by Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme, Mokokchung, Nagaland.

IC: Students of Immanuel College (IC) organised a farewell programme for their outgoing seniors on May 6 at the at the

NEWS IN BRIEF

IRCS Dimapur invites: Dimapur district branch of Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) has invited all patrons, youths, juniors, volunteers, members of IRCS and citizens of Dimapur to participate in the “World Red Cross Day 2023” celebrations on May 8, 12 noon at Livingstone International Dimapur.

NNC/FGN informs: Naga National Council (NNC) and Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) has informed that it would be observing the 72nd anniversary of Naga voluntary plebiscite on May 16, 10 a.m. at Peace Hall, Chedema Angami Region. NNC/ FGN has invited all to the function. It has requested all regions, sub-regions, villages, organisations and prayer centres to prayerfully observe the historic day.

NSCB to new branch: Nagaland State Cooperative Bank (NSCB) has informed that it would be opening its 22nd branch on May 11, 9 a.m. at Settiu Building, Kiamngan Sector, Ward-1, Noklak Town with P Longon, MLA, as the chief guest.

NBCD holds social work: Notun Bosti Council Dimapur (NBCD) conducted a mass social on May 6 within its jurisdiction, wherein colony residents, teachers/staff and students of Government Middle School (Ao) Naga New Model, GMS (Sumi) Naga New Model and St. Jude school, business owners/shopkeepers participated in the social work. ANCA informs: All Nagaland Counselor Association (ANCA) has informed that it has elected Dr. Zavise Rume as its president the year 2023-2026.

CVC informs: Changpang Village Council (CVC) Wokha has informed that a new team of Changpang land owner’s union (CLOU) has been authorised to handle the issues of all natural resources and to initiate all the developmental activities within the village jurisdiction. CVC said the CLOU team would be led by Yanpo Kinghen as president and Jerry Odyuo as general secretary along with seven other members.

College Auditorium under the theme, “Transcending Beyond the Horizon”. Speaking to the students in her farewell speech, IC vice principal, Dr. Imchanochetla Changkija exhorted the students to create and mould their life into what they determined to become. She encouraged them to find a purpose and take life as a challenge and look forward with determination and hard work. Chairman governing body, Dr. A Loso Chalai also exhorted the outgoing students to keep accumulating knowledge and be filled with passion and zeal. He advised them to equipped themselves with knowledge, love and compassion and strive forward.

SCHE: The annual gratitude day cum farewell for the 6th Semester Students of Salesian College of Higher Education (SCHE) Dimapur, was celebrated on May 6. The event was organised by the 4th semester students along with the Department of History.

In his exhortation, SCHE principal, Fr. Paul Punii, spoke on the importance of gratitude as being a sign of greatness. He gave a three-point advice to the outgoing students: first to constantly seek God’s grace

and blessings, second, to building new and good relationships for personal and professional growth, and third, the importance of discipline for a successful life.

PGC: Phek Government College organised its 40th annual parting social on May 5 at the College Auditorium with Deputy Commissioner (DC) Phek, Kumar Ramnikant as the guest of honour.

Speaking at the programme, the DC conveyed his best wishes to the outgoing students and encouraged them to be confident, persistent, and consistent. He advised them to build good network and also opt for other avenues rather than depending on government jobs alone.

The DC also released the college annual magazine, “Rhythmic Reveries”.

DGC: A state-level seminar on “Behavioural and mental health challenges among youth: Strategies to enhance well-being” was organised by department of psychology in collaboration with IQAC, Dimapur Government College (DGC) on May 5.

The resource persons were, Nagaland University, Mierema Campus (department of psychology) Kohima, assistant professor Dr.

Imlisongla Longkumer and DGC (department of psychology), assistant professor Dr. Temsusenla Jamir.

Dr. Imlisongla explained on the importance of youth’s mental health and underscored the need to promote mental health and create awareness about it to youths, as they are susceptible to Mental and Substance Use Disorder (MSUDs). She also mentioned some common behavioural and mental health problems that are prevalent in youth like - anxiety disorder, depression, eating disorders, substance misuse and gaming disorder. She said prevention and early intervention are keys to promotion of good mental health.

A presentation on the topic “positive psychology for mental health and well-being” was given by Dr. Temsusenla, where she explained about mental illness and mental health. She further explained on the newer branch of psychology which is the positive psychology where it focusses on people’s strengths and teaches them to live a positive lifestyle.

The events witnessed the participation of students and teachers from DGC as well as from various colleges.

Earlier, director of Sericulture, T. Sanny Pongener delivered the welcome speech which was followed by self-introduction and district-wise PowerPoint presentation on the departmental activities taken up during the year 2022-23.

destroyed in Wokha

DIMAPUR: A total of 1984 bottles/cans and cases of assorted Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) seized on different occasions across Wokha district was destroyed on May 6.

According to a DIPR report, the consignment was destroyed in the presence of additional public prosecutor, Sub-

Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Wokha, Prosecuting Inspector (PI), and Office In-Charge (OC) Wokha.

ACkNOwLEdGEMENt

Grace Mercy & Peace from God be with you: 2 Timothy 1:2

July 1936 – 30th April 2023

We, the bereaved family of Lt. N. HONIVI SEMA would like to express our profound gratitude and appreciation to all Individuals, Relatives, Friends, WellWishers, Churches, Organisations and Civil Societies who stood by us physically and morally through your prayers and generosity and gave us the strength we needed during our times of sadness.

We regret that we could not thank and mention each one individually but we pray that our Good Lord bless you all abundantly.

DP-1961/23

Loving Children, Grand Children and In-Laws

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

LATE NKHYINGSAO LOTHA 01/07/1948 – 01/05/2023

We, the bereaved family members of Late Nkhyingsao Lotha would like to express our sincere heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone for your kind support physically, emotionally, spiritually and financially during the illness and sad loss of our beloved Father. Words are inadequate to express our thankfulness and gratitude to every person individually.

It is our earnest prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

DP-1963/23 MKC-165/23

Loving Wife, Children, Grandchildren In-Laws and Relatives

Destruction

Y. Kikheto Sema with officials flagging off MICTC vehicles. (DIPR)

Team Better Dimapur with Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) on

Tajen Ao Road, Dimapur. (NP)

Q.: Should the govt consider having a two-day sitting of the house to discuss oil exploration and ULB polls ?

Wokha has highest drug users: Patton

its policy clear which is, zero tolerance on drugs users, peddlers and suppliers,” Jamir said.

He said more than 140 people had been arrested in the past few weeks which included several uniformed personnel as well.

He lauded Wokha SP and her team who had been able to detain a lot of drug abusers even in Wokha district.

He solicited the cooperation of the civil societies, elders, church and students community.

NEXT POLL

Q: Are NE states having alliances with BJP unwilling to denounce violence against tribal Christians?

WEATHER FORECAST MAY 7

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 6 (NPN):

Nagaland deputy chief minister, Y Patton said Wokha district has the highest number of drug users in the State and that youths should be aware of the dangers of drug and substance abuse which was destroying the social fabric.

He was speaking as special guest at the 35th general conference of Nyiro Range Students’ Union at government middle school, Nyiro Wokha.

He said Nagaland Police was doing its best in the fight against drug and illegal substances.

He cautioned the students to stay away from such substances and also be

aware of people who were into such behaviour.

He urged the gathered students to learn how to avoid misuse of mobile phones as abusing the gadget could lead to destroying of lives by hampering their studies and reality.

He disclosed that he would sponsor gifted students who wants to take coaching for competitive exams including UPSC, NPSC among others.

He urged the students to be hard working and prepare themselves to get into service through exams as now appointments were made only through competitive exams and no other appointment was possible.

He also stressed on the need to protect mother

CFC inaugurated at Zathilu, Chokriba

tongue, which, he said, was the identity of the people.

Patton urged the gathered students to give importance to mother tongue as it there were danger of it becoming endangered if there was lesser speakers.

He urged the student community to pray for unity and avoid division among the church members.

Speaking at the occasion, IGP (Range), Limasunep Jamir, IPS, said drug abuse was causing a lot of problems in the society especially among the youths who were getting hooked to it for various reasons.

“The war on drugs is an initiative of the police department which is being taken up on a war footing.

The department has made

Sensitisation on drugs laws & management of pharmacies

He said addiction in any form was criminal in nature the worst part was people supplying it, making money out of it while young users won’t know how they were getting addicted.

He observed that the way forward was rehabilitation and awareness generation.

Earlier the programme was compered by Mhonthung J Ngullie and Hayibeni P Ngullie while invocation was offered by Longsachung Baptist Church pastor, Rev C Ramongo Ezung.

Greetings was conveyed by organising committee convenor, Yenrothung Odyuo.

President’s address was delivered by Chumchanthung Ezung while benediction was pronounced by Yimkha Baptist Church pastor, Rev L Renbomo Ngullie and P Socumlo Ngullie proposed the vote of thanks.

DIMAPUR: A sensitization programme on drugs laws and management of pharmacies was held on May 5 at the Conference Hall of APO, Kohima for the community pharmacies.

A press release by Drugs Control Officer (DCO) Kohima informed that the programme was jointly organised by the Drugs Control Administration, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) office Kohima and the Pharmacy Union Kohima.

During the programme, deputy CMO Kohima, Dr. Imchatoshi encouraged the gathering for proper dispensing of medicine as per prescription of the Physician. he

also reminded the gathering to abide by the laws effectively for better service to the citizens.

DCO and MDO Kohima, Ethungbemo Ezung appealed gathering to consider themselves more as a service provider rather than as business person, as the service provided by the pharmacies was crucial for effective and quality health care delivery system.

He also highlighted important sections of Drugs and Cosmetic Act and Rules with respect to proper dispensing and record management.

Ezung also appealed to all the pharmacies to cooperate towards successful implementation of

“Nasha Mukt Bharat” by installing CCTV as directed by the Deputy Commissioner, chairman National Narcotics Coordination Portal. (NCORD). He asked them to meticulously follow the terms and conditions provided in the notification issued by the health & family welfare department government of Nagaland with respect to purchase and sale of medicines that are declared as restricted in order to avoid administrative and legal action.

The program was chaired by Pharmacy Union Kohima (PUK) president, Zhapuvilie Yashu and concluded with a vote of thanks by PUK general secretary, Apollo.

DPDB meetings held in Longleng, Dimapur & Kiphire

DIMAPU R: Longleng, Dimapur, Kiphire (District Planning and Development Board) monthly meetings were held at respective district headquarters.

Longleng: The monthly Longleng DPDB meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner (DC) and vice chairman Longleng DPDB, Dharam Raj, Saturday at DPDB Hall, Longleng.

DPDB meeting was held on May 5 under the chairmanship of advisor, Moatoshi Longkumer.

DIMAPUR: Thipuzumi Kiwi and allied food processing cluster Common Facility Centre (CFC) located at Zathilu, Chokriba under Thipuzu village in Phek district was inaugurated on May 5 by secretary of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), government of India, BB Swain. The facility, funded under the Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional. Industries (SFURTI) program of government of India, would be implemented by Thipuzumi Kiwi Farming Cooperative Society. The

Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship, Guwahati is the nodal agency and Arohan Foods Private Limited is the technical agency for the project.

At the programme, advisor Civil Administration Works Department and Taxes Nagaland, Kudecho Khamo spoke at length about entrepreneurship and development of local economy while director of Arohan Foods Pvt Ltd., Arindam Hazarika briefed the gathering about the capacity and vision of the CFC.

The inauguration was attended by the joint secre-

tary MSME, Mercy Epao and other dignitaries from multiple government departments from both the centre and state. The event started with an invocation by Chakhesang Baptist Church Kohima Pastor Rev Vezopa Rhakho, while chairman Thipuzumi Welfare Society Kohima, Dr Rupfuhu Rose welcomed the participants and also made closing remark.

The brand Mujo (or green in the local dialect) was also formally launched during the event. Mujo will be the umbrella brand for all products made from the CFC.

According to a DIPR report, the house deliberated on demolishing of the abandoned building of Government High School Nyengching, Longleng located next to ongoing construction of new the District Hospital Longleng, as it was hampering the work in progress.

Earlier, the meeting began with the welcome address by the DC followed by introduction of new members and review of last meeting minutes.

AHO, Y. Angong Buchem and DHO Talimeren from horticulture department presented the departmental activities to the house. The department of evaluation was entrusted to present the departmental activities in the next meeting.

Dimapur: Dim apur

According to a DIPR report, the meeting attended by advisors, Tovihoto Ayemi and Hekani Jakhalu, deliberated on several agendas raised by the Dimapur DPDB chairman, Moatoshi, which included compulsory installation of CCTVs in all the shops and streets under Dimapur district.

Moatoshi also suggested that all the departments need to mandatorily install CCTV in their respective offices within a specific time frame.

For the street lights, members agreed to send proposal to the government through the Commissioner Police for sanction.

With a vision for to work with transparency and commitment, Moatoshi asked departments to submit progress report

every month to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dimapur. Towards this, advisor Hekani commented that public needs to know the schemes implemented by different departments.

Terming Dimapur as a very important district of the state, Hekani said Dimapur is the district which would shape the future of the state and urged upon the officers to take Dimapur forward together with their strength and expertise.

Advisor, Tovihoto told officers that it was a “privilege” to be posted in Dimapur and asked them to work for the people, punctual and regular in attending the DPDB meeting.

The members also discussed removal of obsolete cable wires and telephone posts in Dimapur city. Towards this, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dimapur

JWLCCS holds annual general body meeting at Mima village

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 6 (NPN):

Japfüphi Women Livelihoods and Credit Cooperative Society (JWLCCS) held its 8th Annual General Body Meeting (AGBM) as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav-Inclusive Development and the ongoing Sangathan Se Samriddhi at Mima village, around 18 Km from Kohima.

Special guest at the event, joint secretary, Rural Development and mission director, NSRLM, Kohima, Imtimenla, said the mission was a community based institution.

She said Jakhama was the first and best block in the State which had also won numerous awards over the years and has been an exemplary block for years now.

She said the AGBM of JWLCCS was part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration which was taken up by all the departments with various programmes of their own.

She pointed out that

NRLM w as PM Modi’s

brainchild which aims to have atleast 10 crore SHG members by September, 2023, which was being undertaken through special mobilization programs.

“Under this initiative there are different projects taken up, NRLSM is women centric, this is the biggest women centric programme in the world. We are also part of that movement. We have defunct SHGs as well but when you go back do share it with your family, neighbours and others. Try to mobilise more people,” she said.

Imtimenla also pointed

out that the drive for Lakhpati Didi was being monitored from the highest level.

Under this program a woman from a household should be able to earn one lakh annually.

She pointed out that under Jakhama block there were 56 women who were in the lakhpati didi category already.

She said nationwide there was a need to make 2 cr SHG women into Lakhpati didi and therefore Nagaland also should be part of the target.

She said there were many successful ones in Jakhama block however the

growth should not be hampered and accordingly strive to make Jakhama block also 100 pc Lakhpati Didi.

She said any initiative the mission takes up they ensure that only trained people were involved.

She pointed out that piggery was the one of the best ways to become lakhpati didi.

“If we have the determination and the will, we can also shine.

If we pay interest, learn new things and work hard then we can also be at par with other successful people,” she told the gathering. Sharing the keynote ad-

dress, Block Program Manager, DAY-NSRLM, BMMU RD Block, Jakhama, Vitsituo Mepfhüo said the main vision and objective of the mission was primarily to reduce poverty.

He said Jakhama block was formed on August 10, 2016 and eversince then it had been witnessing a gradual growth and that it has passed the nurturing and now was in the hand holding support. He said although the block faced issues as banks were also reluctant to extend loans to the SHGs.

However, Mepfhüo said, after the first 11 SHGs showed great promise and repaid the borrowed money on time banks were now coming forward with loan proposals without any hesitation.

He pointed out that the block had now more than 300 SHGs and 70 VLOs.

Handing out the CRPEP certifications, chief operating officer (Skills), DAYNSRLM, Nagaland, Kohima, Menuoneituo Chadi said seven of them had been

certified by the ministry. He hoped that more members would be able to get certified in the days to come.

Earlier the meeting was chaired by JWLCCS finance secretary, Sevono Paphino while invocation was pronounced by EC member, Khrietsono Sachü.

JWLCCS president, Neilakuonuo Livi extended the welcome address while EC member recited the vision statement and audit report was given by treasurer Beizono Neihu.

A short speech was given by Mima village council chairman, Kamo Leno while JWLCCS vice president, Zasibino Tachü proposed the vote of thanks and Cholvile Sachü pronounced the benediction.

A special number was presented by Noupuo VLO, Mima village.

The meeting was organised by Japfüphi Thenuko Block Level Federation (JTBLF) and promoted by Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM).

Sachin Jaiswal informed that the district administration has met the cable TV providers and that field visit has also been conducted by SDO (C) and plan of action has been charted out.

DC Dimapur, who is also the vice chairman DPDB, congratulated all the elected members and felicitated them on behalf of DPDB Dimapur.

Kiphire: Kiphire

DPDB monthly meeting was held on May 5 under the chairmanship of C.Kipili Sangtam, MLA and Kiphire DPDB chairman, at DPDB Hall Kiphire.

During the meeting, Kipili appealed the members to be more responsible while discharging their duties, and cautioned that meeting attendance would be strictly monitored.

Several agendas such as establishment of police

outposts in Kiusam and Mimi, creation of SDPO post at Pungro, inauguration of Seyochung police station, shortage of manpower in police department Kiphire, creation of forest office at Seyochung and Pungro, construction of community hall under minister of Tribal affairs at New Risethsi village, creation of Sub District Industries Centre (SDIC) at Seyochung, construction of security fencing at DAO Kiphire and black toping of road EE(Power) Office road, deluxe point to AR gate, rest house to ZPC college were discussed and approved for onward forward to the government during the meeting.

Earlier, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kiphire, T.Wati Aier welcomed the new members; SP Kiphire highlighted about the difficulty faced in the district. (Correspondent)

Metsubo calls for strict implementation of attendance

DIMAPUR: Minister, Rural Development (RD), Metsubo Jamir, while underscoring the importance of monitoring attendance, said Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) of respective districts would now “control” the leave and attendance of all department district offices which will then be tabled in the District Planning and Development Boards (DPDBs).

A press release by RD publicity cell informed that the minister, while addressing Project Directors (PDs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs) Conference 2023 at RD Conference Hall, Saturday, urged them to be in their place of postings regularly.

The minister also called for strict implementation of attendance during meetings and reiterated that any meeting called by the department has to be attended by all officers concerned because it was

only during such meeting that issues could be discussed and deliberated and important information could be shared. Metsubo also reviewed and discussed overall districts presentation on various RD programmes and district achievement and status report presentation.

Y. Patton with the officials and others in Wokha. (NP)

Medical team and participants at the conference hall of APO, Kohima on May 5.

Inauguration of Common Facility Centre at Zathilu, Chokriba under Thipuzu village.

Officials with some of the members at the annual general body meeting at Mima vilage. (NP)

DPDB meeting in Kiphire. (DIPR)

DPDB meeting in progress in Longleng.

Mnp Gov appeals for peace; CM chairs meeting

Correspondent

IMPHAL, MAY 6: Ma -

nipur Governor Anusuiya

Uikey on Saturday appealed to maintain peace, patience and harmony even as the chief minister convened an all-party meeting in the wake of the violence in the state. “I appeal to all of you, being Governor of this state, that according to Manipur state’s excellent coexistence, brotherhood and mutual cooperation, all of you should maintain brotherhood, dispel the feeling of fear and insecurity and cooperate with the people around you,” the Governor stated in an appeal note.

She added “Do it. Other residents of your locality, city, state who have been living with you for years. They are all your own brothers and sisters.” Violent incidents and arson that took place in the state during the last few days, has disturbed mutual brotherhood and peace. Some brothers and sisters of the state also died suddenly in these unfortunate incidents.

“I have received information that due to these

incidents, an atmosphere of insecurity, mistrust and fear is also being created among the citizens of the state,” she stated. She informed that the Army, RAF, Assam Rifles, CRPF, BSF, police and administrative officers of the state, people’s representatives were continuously working in the state. Security forces were patrolling all the areas and taking care of your safety.

“If any kind of incident, nuisance disturbance or spreading fear, looting damaging property or causing human harm occurs around you, immediately inform the 24-hour control room of the army no. 9233637014 or the police,” she stated. “I want to assure you that the security forces are very close to you at your

Manipur violence: Students attacked in Delhi

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (AGENCIES): As the situation improves a little in Manipur, the violence has now spread to Delhi.

According to India Today report, a group of Kuki students residing in the Delhi University North Campus area alleged that they were attacked by a group of Meiteis on Thursday night.

According to the Kuki students, a group of around 30 people surrounded three women and a few men who had accompanied them after a prayer meeting in the Patel Chest area. The women were on their way home to their PGs after attending the prayer meeting when the group of almost 30 people stopped them and asked for their IDs.

The group then spoke in Meiteilon and that is how the students realised that they were Meitei. The Meiteis also took away the phones of the students, they claimed. A student told India Today that the group then started assaulting the men who had accompanied the women home and also threatened to rape the women.

The assault only stopped after a police patrolling the area spotted them, said the student.

The following day, on Friday, the students tried to register an FIR at the Maurice Nagar Police Station. After the police refused to register the FIR, the students staged a protest outside the police station.

service. They will help you by taking immediate action on your information,” she assured.

It was again an appeal to all to dispel the feeling of fear, disbelief and insecurity from the mind. Everything will be fine in no time. Peace and tranquility will be restored and looking forward to normalcy, the Governor added, in her appeal note.

On the other hand, chief minister N Biren Singh convened an all-political party meeting to discuss the current situation in the state and to find ways to bring peace and stability to the region.

The meeting was attended by representatives from various political parties including Indian National Congress, CPI, JD(U), NPF,

SILCHAR, MAY 6 (PTI):

More than 1,100 people from Manipur’s Jiribam district and surrounding areas have crossed the inter-state border to enter Assam’s Cachar district, following violence in the neighbouring state, officials said on Saturday.

Most of the migrants are from the Kuki community and they fear that their homes back in Manipur have been destroyed by the groups which attacked them on Thursday night when they fled to safety in Cachar.

“It was around 10 pm on Thursday when we heard screams in our area and it took a few minutes for us to realise that we had been attacked. They were pelting stones, threatened us and said that this is their final war,” 43-year-old L Muangpu, a resident of Jiribam said after crossing the state border.

Another resident, 24-yearold Vahcy Khongsai, who along with her family members fled their home, said that there was a peace meeting in their area on Thursday morning and both Meitei and Kuki communities assured to protect each other.

“A resolution was taken and we are happy that both

Centre denied flights to evacuate Mizoram residents

AIZAWL,

MAY 6 (PTI):

A senior Mizoram official on Saturday claimed that the Centre has turned down the state’s request to provide flights to evacuate its residents stranded in violence-hit Manipur. The Mizoram government has urged both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to charter flights for the stranded people hailing from the northeastern state, he said. “The Centre turned down our request, and so has a private airline (to evacuate people of Mizoram stuck in Manipur),” the official told PTI.

The Centre is yet to make a comment on it.

Hundreds of people, mostly students, were re-

portedly stranded in Manipur following violent clashes between tribals and people belonging to the majority Meitei community, which has displaced thousands and resulted in the loss of lives of at least 54.

Meanwhile, Mizoram Home Minister Lalchamliana convened a meeting with officials on Saturday to review the measures being taken to evacuate people from Manipur.

He said the state government is making massive efforts to bring back its residents at the earliest.

Tickets of commercial flights have been booked for those stranded in the neighbouring state, and they are expected to return in batches, state government sources said.

Shiv Sena, AITC, BSP, AAP, MPP, AIFB, MNDF, ABHKP and key stakeholders including former chief minister O Ibobi Singh.

After a lengthy discussion, the meeting resolved to appeal for peace in the state, and encourage citizens to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that could lead to further violence or instability. It further resolved to form a peace committee in every assembly constituency to ensure that peace initiatives are implemented at the grassroots level. The committee would work towards identifying and addressing the underlying causes of violence and conflict, and to promote peaceful dialogue and cooperation among communities. After the meeting, chief minister N Biren Singh expressed his appreciation for the constructive and productive discussions at the meeting. He further thanked all participants for their commitment to promoting peace and harmony in the state.

The state government was committed to working with all stakeholders of all

the communities have agreed to protect each other. At night, however, we realised that it was a false agreement. They first attacked the church and attempted to burn our homes. The men in our area risked their lives to protect us,” she said. Khongsai said the Army controlled the situation on Thursday night but still they preferred to leave their houses at least for sometime.

“We are safe till the army is there but they cannot protect us every time. At midnight we decided to walk towards the Assam border and we crossed the Jiri river with kids and elderly persons,” she added.

Cachar Deputy Commissioner Rohan Kumar Jha visited the border area under Lakhipur Sub-division on Friday and said that all necessary facilities are being provided to the people from Jiribam by the Cachar district administration. Jha said that over 1,100 people from Manipur have come to Cachar via the Jiri river waterway and a few others by road due to fear of the ongoing violence in their state.

Some of them have gone to their relatives home and others have taken shelter in the different

the communities in the state to find lasting solutions to the challenges faced by the state, and to ensure that Manipur remains a peaceful and prosperous state for all its citizens, the CMO release said.

Senior Congress leader and former chief minister O Ibobi Singh also said that the meeting mainly discussed ways for normalcy to return in the state at the earliest.

Responding to the queries from reporters after the meeting, the former chief minister said that the meeting also discussed the first priority to take up steps to bring normalcy and secondly, to evacuate people taking refuge at various places and sent them to their respective places.

The leaders of the political parties present in the meeting unanimously resolved to work together to restore peace and harmony, keeping behind the differences in ideology, he said Terming the prevailing violence as unfortunate, he appealed to all sections of the people to calm down and to resolve the issue through dialogue.

camps established by the Cachar district administration in Jorkha Hmar lower primary school, Mirpur lower primary school, Fulertal Union high school, and community halls in Rangmaijan, K Bethel and Lalpani villages in the sub-division, the deputy commissioner said. Rations for two days have been provided immediately and more will be distributed as required, he said.

The situation along the border area is peaceful the DC said, and appealed to people not to fall prey or spread any rumour related to the unrest in neighbouring Manipur.

Cachar Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatto said that security has been beefed up in neighbouring areas of Cachar-Manipur border and all measures have been taken to maintain the peace and tranquility in that area.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the state government was in constant touch with students from Assam who are in Manipur.

“We will bring them back as soon as the first available opportunity arises. I request all family members not to worry

Kuki women form human chain to protect Meitei people from mob

IMPHAL/CHURACHANDPUR, MAY 6

(PTI): Kuki women formed a human chain in Churachandpur town to protect people of the majority Meitei community from a mob to help them board army vehicles which were at a distance during the recent violence in Manipur.

The Kuki women did not allow the mob to do any harm to Meitei people who were being evacuated from violence-affected areas.

‘Womenfolk lined up on the street and they did not allow the mob to move further or indulge in any kind of vandalism as people were being evacuated from violence-affected areas’, a resident of the town, who wished not to be named told PTI.

A video of the incident went viral on social media soon after. “The Kuki women sent a strong message of humanity by ensuring that the mob did not cause any harm to them”, the resident said while vouching for the incident having occurred in front of him on Thursday,

about their safety, as we are taking all possible measures to ensure their well-being”, Sarma tweeted.

The chief minister had directed the Cachar district administration on Friday to take care of Manipur violence-affected families that have sought refuge in the state and that he was in constant touch with his Manipur counterpart N Biren Singh.

Silchar MP Rajdeep Roy said the Central government is keeping a close eye on this issue and Assam Government is standing by Manipur in this situation.

He said that migrants will be safe in Assam till the situation becomes normal in Manipur.

Assam’s two districts -Cachar and Dima Hasao -- share a 204.1 km border with Manipur.

Violent clashes broke out between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community in Manipur on Wednesday, displacing thousands of people. The clashes were reported after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organised in the ten hill districts of Manipur to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

Truck driver shot dead by BSF in Meghalaya

Correspondent SHILLONG, MAY 6: A truck driver was shot dead by the BSF on the PynurslaDawki road for allegedly smuggling cattle to the IndiaBangla border, police said on Saturday. The incident occurred at Mawshun village under Pynursla Police Station late Friday night.

The 34-year-old driver has been identified as Roning Nongkynrih of Jalynteng village in East Khasi Hills district. Sylvester Nongtnger, the district police chief of East Khasi Hills said police have registered a case after the relative of the deceased filed an FIR at the Pynursla Police station. He said investigation is on into the incident.

According to the handyman of the truck, who is also the brother of the deceased, they were moving to drop some buffaloes when a BSF vehicle overtook and asked

CRPF asks Manipur-origin personnel on leave in state to report to nearest base

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): The CRPF has directed its personnel hailing from Manipur and on leave in their home state to “immediately” report to their nearest security base with family members in the wake of a CoBRA commando being killed in the ongoing violence in the state.

The commando of the Central Reserve Police Force’s CoBRA, who was

on leave, was shot dead by armed assailants in his village in Manipur’s Churachandpur district on Friday noon, officials said.

The headquarters of the 3.25-lakh personnel strong force in Delhi asked all its field commanders to “promptly” contact their off-duty personnel hailing from Manipur and convey the message. The directive, accessed

by PTI, asks all personnel hailing from Manipur and on leave in their home state to “report immediately” to their nearest security force base along with their family if they feel “unsafe or insecure”.

It has asked its Manipur and Nagaland Sector Office, headquartered in Imphal, to extend “all possible assistance to such personnel promptly”.

the day of the worst rioting in Manipur.

A Twitter user Linthoi Chanu said on the microblogging site that while a lot of Twitter is reporting communal hate and further worsening of inter-community ties, Meitei people who are in minority in Churachandpur have come on record to say that they have been protected by the Kuki community from those who instigated the violence.

‘Similarly, Meitei girls are protecting Kuki students in Manipur University while some of you enjoy hatred in the name of communal tension”, Chanu added.

Meitei women have similarly intervened to protect Kuki students studying in the capital of Manipur.

This is the first time

that such widespread ethnic violence has broken out in the northeastern state. Representatives of both communities have been engaged with the security forces to arrange for the evacuation of members affected by the violence to safety. The army and the Assam Rifles have so far evacuated 11,400 affected people from Churachandpur, Imphal and Moreh, a Defence spokesperson said. “We are providing all possible assistance to provide succour to the evacuated people and to ensure their safety,” he said. Violent clashes broke out between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community in Manipur on Wednesday, displacing thousands of people.

PDF legislators merges with NPP, NPP strength rises to 28

Correspondent

SHILLONG, MAY 6: Two People’s Democratic Front (PDF) legislators on Saturday officially merged with the National People’s Party (NPP), taking the strength of the NPP which is leading the coalition in Meghalaya to 28.

The PDF merged with the NPP albeit with some conditions. Both the parties signed an agreement on the merger.

For the PDF, its president Gavin Miguel Mylliem signed an 11-point agreement and the Chief Minister and NPP president signed on behalf of his party.

The agreement include: proper implementation of the roster system taking into consideration the sentiments of the people, farmers plight, power crisis, inner line permit among others.

The PDF has two MLAs in the current assembly which includes its president Mylliem and Banteidor Lyngdoh. Mylliem

represents Sohra assembly constituency while Lyngdoh Mawkynrew assembly constituency.

“The decision to merge is a result of working under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and the MDA government, which has convinced them of a ‘better Meghalaya’ under him.

“We see a vision for a better Meghalaya under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and therefore we have taken decision to merge with the NPP,” Mylliem said.

Welcoming the PDF legislators to the NPP fold , Sangma said the NPP and PDF have have been romancing for a very long time but the two legislators have taken time to discuss and bring their supporters on board as well.

Sangma assured that the merger document was already looked and read at properly, and that the government will work on the demands.

IN THE COURT OF DISTRICT & SESSIONS JUDGE DIMAPUR : NAGALAND.

it to stop.

“When the truck stopped the BSF personnel opened fire and shot dead the driver,” the handyman said.

However, BSF sources said that the truck didn’t stop when asked to stop by a Mobile Check Post (MCP) unit of the BSF at Wahkdait. Instead the truck tried to “hit and run down” the BSF personnel.

“There were four other trucks behind and when the first truck tried to hit and run over the MCP. The BSF personnel fired in the air. An investigation is on at the moment to ascertain the cause of the death of the driver,” a senior BSF official said.

The BSF official further informed that the incident occurred in an area where further down the road was the “unfenced” Indo-Bangla border, which is the hub of cattle smuggling to Bangladesh.

After the incident, villagers in the area pelted stones at

the BSF camp at Pyrdiwah while demanding that the personnel who opened the fire be handed over to them.

“We have filed a complaint before the police about the stone pelting at our camp,” the BSF official said.

Moreover, the other

trucks which were trailing behind the first truck have disappeared mysteriously after the shooting incident.

“Those too were carrying cattle,” the BSF claimed. Meanwhile, the body of the truck driver has been sent to Shillong Civil hospital for autopsy.

AFFIDAVIT Regd. No.559/2023

Date 16/01/2023

I, Shri. Nkhathung Lotha, aged about 64 years and resident of Longsa Village in the district of Wokha, Nagaland do solemnly affirm and state as under :

1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India and resident of the above mentioned address.

2. That my spouse actual and correct name is Smti. Jonroli Ezung, as it is entered/ recorded in all her official documents and Aadhaar Card.

3. That whereas in Pension Payment Order No. 111300486, issued by The Office of the Sr. Deputy Accountant General (A&E) Nagaland, my spouse name was inadvertently entered/recorded as Smti Chonroli Lotha

4. That, the names Jonroli Ezung and Chonroli Lotha pertains to same and one person i.e., my spouse name and there is no discrepancy.

5. That henceforth, my spouse name should be read and known as Smti. Jonroli Ezung for all correspondence and official purposes.

6. That, the statements 1 to 5 made above are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing stated herein above are false.

VERIFICATION

I solemnly declare and affirm that the particular furnished above by me are correct and that I have not concealed or misrepresented any fact therein.

DEPONENT

Sworn before me by the deponent on this day the 16th January 2023.

DB-576/23

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

OFFICE OF EMPOWERED OFFICER

NOTARY PUBLIC

NAGALAND RURAL ROAD DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

NAGALAND : KOHIMA

PRESS RELEASE

Kohima, the 05th of May, 2023

WORKSHOP ON FULL DEPTH RECLAMATION (FDR)

Nagaland Rural Road Development Agency (NGRRDA) under the Aegis of Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) will conduct a Workshop cum Training Program on Full Depth Reclamation at Kisama Heritage Village (Bamboo Hall) with resource persons from CRRI & IITs on 11th & 12th of May 2023.

All the Contractors & Site Engineers are cordially invited to attend the Workshop.

Kindly contact PMGSY Cell in the Office of the Chief Engineer PWD(R&B) for details of the program and confirmation of your presence latest by 10/05/2023 during Office hour.

DC-539/23

Sd/Chief Engineer, PWD(R&B) & Empowered Officer, NGRRDA Nagaland: Kohima

NOTICE S/C. No. 198/2023

NOTICE INVITING CLAIMS/OBJECTIONS OF OTHER CLAIMANTS (S) FOR ISSUE OF SUCCESSION CERTIFICATE UNDER PART-1 OF INDIAN SUCCESSION ACT 1925

Whereas application under Succession Act 1925 for grant of Succession Certificate for debts and securities of Late A. Mhabemo Lotha has been applied by M.Anyimi Lotha, W/o Late A. Mhabemo Lotha, R/o H/No 319, Ward-10, Naharbari Dimapur, Nagaland for possession of 1. PPO No. NL/6/111712253, 2. SBI A/C No. 20053562549.

Notice is hereby given any person having interest in the administration of the pension benefits/estate of the said deceased may if she/he so desire to appear in this Court on or before within a period of 30 days from the date of publication.

Given under the hand and seal of the Court on this day the 3rd May 2023. Principal District & Sessions Judge Dimapur: Nagaland K-986/23

IN THE COURT OF DISTRICT & SESSIONS JUDGE WOKHA : NAGALAND. S/C. No. 48/23

NOTICE

NOTICE INVITING CLAIMS/OBJECTIONS OF OTHER

CLAIMANTS(S) FOR ISSUE OF SUCCESSION CERTIFICATE

UNDER PART-1 OF INDIAN SUCCESSION ACT 1925

Whereas application under Succession Act 1925 for grant of Succession Certificate for the estate/pension benefits of Late Zuthungpeni has been applied by Shri. Jonchibemo Y. Ezung, S/o Lt. Zuthungpeni, R/o H.No 120 Wokha, Nagaland for possession of:

1. SBI A/c No. 11766539369

Notice is hereby given any person having interest in the administration of the estate/pension benefits of the said deceased may if she/he so desire to appear in this Court on or before 3/06/23. Given under the hand and seal of the Court on this day the 3/06/23. District & Sessions Judge Wokha : Nagaland K-984/23

Regd. No. 119/2023

AFFIDAVIT

Date 06/05/2023

I, Shri. Lhoulabeituo Khezhie, Son of Late M. Zelhoulie Khezhie, aged about 57 years, present resident of D Khel Kohima Village, District : Kohima, in the State of Nagaland, do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as follows:

1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India.

2. That my correct/original name is Lhoulabeituo Khezhie.

3. That in my Appointment Order No. ES/6-17/71(Pt)90/328-33 my name has been entered as Lhoulabeilie Khiezhe instead of Lhoulabeituo Khezhie.

4. That the word “Lhoulabeituo" is my name and the word "Khezhie is the name of my title.

5. That some discrepancies arose in view of entry of my name as Lhoulabeilie Khiezhe and Lhoulabeituo Khezhie in different documents. However, both Lhoulabeilie Khiezhe and Lhoulabeituo Khezhie is my name.

6. That this Affidavit may be treated as a piece of evidence that both Lhoulabeilie Khiezhe and Lhoulabeituo Khezhie is the same and one person.

7. That the statements made in paragraphs 1 to 6 are true to my knowledge and I have not suppressed anything. And I sign this affidavit on this the 6th day of May,

Kohima.

More than 1,100 people from Manipur enter Assam

Anusuiya Uikey Biren Singh Kuki women block mob armed with sticks.

SNIPPETS

Teenage girl gangraped, accused nabbed

PILIBHIT (UP), MAY 6 (PTI): A teenage girl was allegedly gang-raped in the Sehramau area of this Uttar Pradesh district, police said on Saturday.

The accused were caught by villagers, who handed them over to the police, they added.

The 16-year-old girl had gone to cut grass in a field on Friday when one Pappu and Umesh allegedly raped her.

The accused also threatened to kill the girl if she told anyone about the incident, the police said.

However, the pair was caught by the villagers when they tried to flee and handed over to the police.

Teen girl gangraped in boat; six held

SATNA (MP), MAY 6 (PTI): A 16-year-old girl was allegedly raped by six persons on a boat in the pilgrimage town of Chitrakoot in Madhya Pradesh’s Satna district, police said on Saturday.

The police have arrested an acquaintance of the victim and five boatmen for the attack that took place in the intervening night of Friday and Saturday, Chitrakoot sub-divisional officer of police (SDOP) Ashish Jain told PTI.

Man kills mother’s live-in partner

PALGHAR, MAY 6 (PTI): A 23-year-old man from Maharashtra’s Palghar district has been arrested on the charge of killing his mother’s livein partner, an official said on Saturday.

The murder took place at Virendra Nagar locality in Palghar on Thursday night, the official said.

According to Sachin Navadkar, the public relations officer of the Palghar district rural police, the woman, who sells vegetables, had been living with a man for the past four years.

On many occasions, the woman was thrashed by her live-in partner over petty fights which upset her son, said the official.

Customs dept destroys over 1,000 kg drugs

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (IANS): The Customs department said on Saturday that it has destroyed drugs weighing more than 1,000 kg seized from various international drug peddlers.

“The Customs department is determined to eradicate the social evil of drugs.

As a part of this mission, the officers of Delhi Customs Preventive Commissionerate have destroyed 1,000 kg ephedrine, 28 kg heroin and 84 gm cocaine,” said a Customs officer.

Landlord arrested for killing tenant

GURUGRAM, MAY 6

(IANS): The Gurugram police on Saturday arrested a landlord for allegedly killing his tenant for non-payment of rent from Sector 5 here.

The victim has been identified as Rajender, reportedly an alcoholic who was residing in Gurgaon village in a rented accommodation.

According to the police, the landlord, who has been identified as Suresh, had gone to Rajender’s rented accommodation to collect rent on May 1.

There the duo consumed alcohol following which an argument broke out between the two. In a fit of rage, Suresh then strangled Rajender to death.

Suspected Dhangri attacker killed as Rajnath visits J-K’s Rajouri

RAJOURI/JAMMU, MAY 6 (PTI): A terrorist said to be part of the group that attacked civilians at Dhangri village earlier this year was killed during an operation on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited an army base and took stock of the overall security situation, officials said.

Another terrorist was believed to be injured in the early morning encounter in the Kesari hill of the forested Kandi area during ‘Operation Trinetra’ which was launched a day after five army personnel were killed and a major-rank officer injured when ultras triggered a blast targeting a search party in Kandi forest.

“In the ongoing joint operation in Kandi forest, Rajouri sector, by Indian Army in coordination with Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF, at around 7 am, the cordon, while closing in, spotted and pinned down the terrorists.

“In the ensuing gunbattle one terrorist has been

Rajnath meets soldiers during his visit to the Army Base Camp in Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir, Saturday. (PTI)

neutralised and one terrorist is likely to be injured,”

Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said.

He said an AK-56 rifle, four magazines, 56 bullets, one 9-mm pistol, its three magazines and three grenades were seized from the slain terrorist whose identity and group affiliation were not known immediately.

The People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), a shadow organisation of the Jaish-eMohammed, has claimed responsibility for Friday’s attack.

Officials said the search

Congress working on banned PFI’s agenda, says Amit Shah

SAVADATTI (K’TAKA),

operation was extended to nearby areas with fresh reinforcements from the army and police moving in to block the escape routes. However, there was no fresh contact with the fleeing terrorist.

Despite inclement weather, the operation is on, the officials said, adding the body of the slain terrorist was removed from the scene and his postmortem was also conducted. The officials said some people from Bathuni village, who were called for identification of the slain

Delhi BJP launches ‘Jhootha Kahin Ka’ campaign against Kejriwal

terrorist, said he was part of the group that was active in the area and believed to be behind the Dhangri attack on January 1, that left seven civilians dead and several others injured.

Over the past 18 months, terrorists have killed 35 people, including 26 soldiers, in eight attacks in the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch.

Defence Minister Singh, accompanied by Army chief General Manoj Pande and Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, reached the Ace of Spades Division headquarters in Rajouri in the afternoon after a brief stopover in Jammu.

They also interacted with the troops engaged in the ongoing operation against terrorists, the officials said.

Northern Army commander Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi, the Corps Commander of White Knight Corps, and the Jammu Divisional Commissioner are also accompanying Rajnath to Rajouri, the officials said.

MAY 6 (PTI): Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah on Saturday accused the Congress of functioning on the banned Popular Front of India’s (PFI) agenda, as he urged the people of Karnataka not to vote for the opposition party in Assembly polls next week.

Alleging that Congress indulges in appeasement politics, he claimed that it has insulted Lord Hanuman, along with freedom fighter and Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar.

“Congress party for the sake of vote bank indulges in appe asement politics.

First, they gave four per cent Muslim reservation, despite knowing that our Constitution doesn’t provide for reservation based on religion. BJP has scrapped this unconstitutional Muslim reservation and increased quota for Lingayats and Vokkaligas by two per cent each,” Shah said.

Addressing a public meeting here in Belagavi district, he said Congress promises that in case the party comes to power, they would bring back Muslim

Amit Shah

reservation and take it up to six per cent instead of four per cent.

“From where will you (Congress) get it, whose (quota) will you reduce?

Will you reduce the quota of Lingayats or Vokkaligas or SC/STs, clarify it. Congress people listen with open ears, you will neither form the government, nor Lingayats reservation will get reduced. Only the BJP government will come,” he added.

Recalling that the BJP government outlawed PFI last year, the Home Minister claimed Congress says that on coming to power they would take back the ban on the Islamist outfit. “We don’t indulge in vote bank politics, whoever does antinational work will go behind bars”. Pointing out that PFI had placed two demands, he further said one is to in-

crease the minority budget to Rs 10,000 crore, and the Congress “silently” in its manifesto has promised to increase the quantum to Rs 10,000 crore.

Also, PFI had asked for reservation to minorities, and Congress said it will give six per cent reservation instead of four per cent earlier, he said.

“Congress is functioning on PFI’s agenda, never vote for Congress.”

Accusing Congress of keeping Lord Ram “under lock” by not allowing the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya for 70 years, Shah said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on coming to power laid the foundation for building the structure at the site. The Congress, in its manifesto, has also insulted ‘Bajrangbali’ (Lord Hanuman), he said, adding “they don’t stop there”. “One senior Congress leader asked what is the birth date of Bajrangbali, do you have his birth certificate? Whole country knows his birth date. It’s on Hanuman Jayanti Poornima. You (Congress) don’t know as you only remember appeasement.”

Congress will win at least 141 seats: D K Shivakumar

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): Karnataka Congress chief D K Shivakumar on Saturday exuded confidence that his party would win at least 141 seats in the May 10 assembly polls and asserted that he would abide by whatever the party decides on the issue of chief ministership.

Voting for the 224 assembly seats in the state will take place on May 10 and the results will be out on May 13.

NEW DELHI, MAY

6 (PTI): The Delhi BJP flagged off 14 special vans on Saturday under its “Jhootha Kahin Ka” campaign against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and said these vehicles will travel across the city and show a 27-minute video on the “lies and U-turns” of the AAP chief in the last eight years.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said the vans will visit 4,200 places over the next four weeks.

The BJP has renewed its attack on the AAP, alleging a “scam” in the renovation of Kejriwal’s official residence — 6, Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines — at a cost of Rs 45 crore. It has

alleged that expenditure under various heads was deliberately kept below Rs 10 crore to bypass the lieutenant governor’s scrutiny. It has demanded Kejriwal’s resignation and asked him to open his residence to people to let them see what lied inside.

The AAP has accused the BJP of raising this matter to divert attention from key issues. It has also cited the expenses on residences of the prime minister and the chief ministers of the BJP-ruled states to defend the party.

On Saturday, senior Delhi BJP leaders including Sachdeva, Baijayant Panda, Ramvir Singh Bid-

22 buses to bring back...

(From p-1)

Col. Sati said that the evacuation process would begin early Sunday morning around 2 a.m. and expected to depart from Imphal by 5 a.m. The strandees are expected to arrive Assam Rifle camp at D Khel by 10 a.m. on Sunday, he added. Meanwhile, PRO (Defence) informed that the Assam Rifles column under Brig Ved Beniwal will be picking up Naga students studying in Imphal for their journey back to Kohima on May 7.

PRO said that the pickup points will be at Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Central Agricultural University (CAU) and Koirengei. Therefore, all students were requested coordinate and reach the pickup points by contacting the officials coordinating the evacuation-- Maj Hashir Ahmad 7408200275 and 8162958214 and asst. co mmandant Tamang 9862659130 and 8250599861.

Further, guardians of students stranded in Manipur have also been requested to be in touch with following numbers—Col. Umesh Sati CO 1st AR- 8650232211 and Lt. Col. Abhijit Pawar-

9839122908.

Students appeal to be evacuated: Several students who have been stranded at Moirang area, under Bishnupur district have appealed to Nagaland government to evacuate them. According to the students, they were located around one hour away from Imphal and stuck, as they were unable to move out due to the tense situation. Speaking to Nagaland Post, Bro. Kunietso Hesuh and Bro. Felix informed that there were 19 of them at St Xavier’s school, out ow which 16 were wanting to return home. They said that they had contacted the helpline on May 5, but were asked to “adjust themselves and reach till RIMS”.

While acknowledging the initiatives taken to evacuate the Nagas, they were however disappointed by the response as they were residing in a highly sensitive ar ea and unable to move out. Hesuh said that out of 19 of them, including men and women, seven were construction workers brought from Porba. He said the situation was critical in their area and therefore appealed to Nagaland government to evacuate them.

huri and Harsh Vardhan jointly launched the “Jhootha Kahin Ka” (What a liar) campaign by flagging off the yellow video vans at the party unit office here.

The BJP has said the campaign is aimed at exposing Kejriwal’s “lies and Uturns” over the past 8 years.

“The echo of the corruption done by Kejriwal in building his palace by looting the hard-earned money of Delhiites will now be heard in every house of Delhi,” Panda, the state unit in-charge, said.

The video vans will visit 14 districts of Delhi and narrate “the story of Kejriwal’s lies, deceit and corruption”, Panda said.

In an interview with PTI, Shivakumar said the Congress will get a comfortable majority in Karnataka and the win would open the doors for the Lok Sabha elections as the party’s victory in the state in 1978 had done.

The Karnataka Congress chief lashed out at the BJP for raising issues such as the Uniform Civil Code and the National Register of Citizens in its manifesto for the assembly polls, saying it shows their “bankruptcy” of ideas and vision for the state.

He also claimed that since the BJP has no agenda and vision for Karnataka, the “Modi factor” will not work in the assembly polls this time.

Shivakumar, who is a leading aspirant for the

chief minister’s post along with former chief minister Siddarammaiah in case the Congress comes to power, said all stories of infighting in the party are created by the media and there is no truth in them.

“The fact is that the Congress leadership is united and the party workers are very active in spreading our message both on the ground and in social media. We are putting a combined effort to ensure that the Congress comes back to power with a clear majority,” he asserted.

On him being a strong contender for the post of chief minister, Shivakumar said his first priority was to ensure that the party wins a majority in Karnataka.

“For the last three years, the Congress has been working on the ground starting from the ‘Vaccinate Karnataka’ campaign, to the ‘100 Not Out’ campaign followed by the ‘Mekedatu’

Khalistani terrorist Paramjit Singh Panjwar shot dead in Lahore

LAHORE/CHANDI -

GARH, MAY 6 (PTI): Wanted Khalistani terrorist Paramjit Singh Panjwar was on Saturday morning shot dead by two unidentified gunmen in Lahore, the provincial capital of Pakistan’s Punjab province, police said.

Panjwar, 63, was heading the banned Khalistan Commando Force-Panjwar group and was involved in drug and weapons smuggling and other terror activities when he was designated as a terrorist by India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in July 2020.

He was walking along with his guard at the park of SunFlower Housing Society, Nawab Town near Tokhar Niaz Baig in Lahore, where he was residing when two assailants opened fire on him and managed to flee on a motorcycle, a senior officer of Pakistan’s Punjab Police told PTI.

The victims were shifted to hospital where Panjwar was pronounced dead on arrival by doctors while

the condition of his guard is stated to be critical.

“The gunmen shot (Panjwar) Singh in his head,” the officer said on condition of anonymity.

Pakistan’s intelligence agencies including the ISI, Military Intelligence (MI) and Counter Terrorism Department cordoned off the area and launched an investigation. The media was not allowed to the crime scene.

The body has been shifted to the morgue for autopsy.

Hailing from Tarn Taran district in India’s Punjab, Panjwar was involved in drug and weapons smuggling and was designated as a terrorist under the

Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in July 2020.

He joined the KCF in 1986. He later headed this outfit and crossed over to Pakistan. The KCF was listed as a terrorist organisation under UAPA.

Though he was inactive for the last couple of years, Panjwar had been operating from Lahore and was involved in arranging arms training for youths in Pakistan. He was engaged in supplying arms and ammunition and subsequent infiltration into India for targeting VIPs and economic installations.

He was also involved in broadcasting highly seditious and separatist programmes on Radio Pakistan, intended to incite minorities against the Indian government. He was active in the smuggling of drugs and was a major conduit between smugglers and terrorists, India’s Ministry of Home Affairs had said in a notification that designated him a terrorist under UAPA.

Campaign to the ‘Freedom March’ and registering 78 lakh members of the Congress. Then we made the Bharat Jodo Yatra a grand success in Karnataka,” he said.

Congress leaders and workers have not taken rest for a single day in the last three years, he said, adding that whatever is being seen now is the faith of people that the party’s hard work has won.

“For me, the party comes first and the chief ministership comes later. On the CM issue, I will abide by whatever the party decides,” Shivakumar said.

Asked about the controversy surrounding the Congress manifesto talking about taking decisive action according to law, including imposing a ban on organisations such as the Popular Front of India and the Bajrang Dal, he alleged that the BJP was trying to divide society.

“The BJP government could not provide jobs to our youth. They failed to provide any relief to the common man when it came to inflation and price rise. Now they are trying to divide the society by inflammatory speeches,” he alleged.

This will not work

in Karnataka and people will sweep them aside, he claimed.

Asked about Karnataka being the gateway to the south for the BJP, Shivakumar said the people of the state have “closed the gate on the BJP’s face because of non-performance, corruption and large-scale unemployment in the state”.

People are supporting Congress in a big way and the party is coming back to power, the Karnatala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president claimed.

Asked about the BJP in its election manifesto promising to implement the Uniform Civil Code and the National Register of Citizens in Karnataka if it retains power in the state, Shivakumar said this is precisely the problem of the BJP.

They do not understand Karnataka and its people, the Congress leader alleged.

“Karnataka assembly elections are being fought on local issues. The BJP, which could not deliver on any front during its governance, has also failed to give a narrative in these elections. This shows their bankruptcy of ideas and vision for the state,” he said.

Sharad Pawar calls for common minimum program for Oppn unity

BARAMATI (MAHA), MAY 6 (PTI): A common minimum programme of the Opposition will be prepared ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar said here on Saturday.

He will play a role in bringing opposition parties together, Pawar said in his hometown Baramati in Pune district a day after he withdrew his decision to give up the party post.

“In the next 10-11 months, elections will be taking place in a number of places.....Leaders like Nitish Kumar, Arvind Kejriwal, Chandrashekar Rao, Mamata Banerjee are trying to unite the Opposition,” he told reporters.

“I will participate in bringing the Opposition together by creating a common minimum programme,” Pawar added.

Asked about rumours surrounding the plans of senior NCP leader and his nephew Ajit Pawar, he said, “An atmosphere of confusion is being created regarding Ajit Pawar. There was

t alk that he will join the BJP, but has anything happened?”

Ajit Pawar is someone who loves to work on the ground, and there was no truth to the speculation about him, the NCP chief further said.

Earlier, Pawar was welcomed by local NCP office-bearers amid sloganshouting by workers on his arrival here. He would be meeting local NCP leaders and workers before heading to Solapur, party sources said.

On Friday, the 82-yearold leader withdrew his decision to step down as NCP president, three days after the surprise announcement that had put a question mark on the opposition unity efforts ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Vehicles stand parked before their flagging off as part of BJP’s ‘Jhootha Kahin Ka’ campaign against Kejriwal, in New Delhi, Saturday. (PTI)

D K Shivakumar

Sharad Pawar

Paramjit Singh Panjwar

Adding fuel to fire

Despite the government of India having taken over security in Manipur on May 4 after imposing Article 355 with deployment of 12 companies of central forces; the situation remains tense. Though the official death toll was over 50 yet there are suspicions that the number could exceed.Thousands of people –both tribals and meiteis- are being sheltered under the protection of paramilitary forces. The national media has distorted reports by implying that tribal groups are the perpetrators (even though majority of those killed were mostly kukis). Again the media projected the violence as being due clash between Christians (tribals) and Vaishnavite Hindus (Meiteis). The fact is that over 25 churches have been burned down; yet no report of any Hindu place of worship being targetted. The reason for targeting churches goes beyond understanding since these places have done no harm yet instead they are places of worship and have been in existence at several places for over 50 years in some. The explanation is that some rabid anti-christian elements who do not represent the majority Hindu meiteis are using the occasion to provoke reaction and use it to spread anti-Christian sentiments. These elements have in the past sought targeted Christian missionary schools by demanding huge sums of money. Three priests at the Don Bosco Celestian Noviciate were shot dead in 2001 including closure of eight Catholic schools in Imphal. Earlier in 1990 Father Mathew Manianchira, 53, principal of Canchipur Catholic school was shot dead. Christian missionary schools are located at far flung corners to provide services to the community especially from the economically weaker sections. In April this year, some churches which were as old as 30 to 40 years were demolished during the wee hours by the Biren Singh led-BJP government. All these point to the obvious conclusion that since e attacks on churches are not related with demand of meiteis for ST status; then there must be some motive to paint the issue as a conflict between people of two religions and also clearly a revival of anti-Christian agenda under the watch of the Biren Singh government. Unfortunately, those involved in the spate of burning of churches in Manipur during the recent weeks, have neither been identified nor booked. Manipur chief minister took no proactive steps to prevent attacks on churches and Christians which went on for over a week. He only belatedly issued an appeal for calm after violence worsened. This only further heighten suspicion that there may have been some kind of agenda at some high level to begin provocative acts on tribal Christians and their churches with a clear message for tribes in Manipur most of who are Christians. Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya and Manipur need to analyse these concerted attacks on their religion and draw come conclusion. Ironically prime minister, Narendra Modi who had paid a visit to the Sacred Heart Cathedral Church in Delhi on Easter Sunday has, so far, not commented on the reports of Hindutva organisations targeting churches and pastors in various parts of the country.

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 spirituallyminded 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.”

By Oswald Chambers

Quotes

“Every

ULBs and Gender Politics in Naga Society – Part 1

(The Issue of the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections in Nagaland, along with women reservation and gender issue, had earlier attracted vehement, even violent, reactions from the Naga public and further divided the Naga society. Even lives were lost. Another attempt was made to impose these elections, but thankfully, this time the State Government withdrew the legislation before things got out of hand and the matter has died down for now. But this is sure to rise up again in some form in the near future. Sadly, after so many years, a lot of the issues under discussion still seem to be in a state of confusion. This is an attempt to bring some clarity as the writer sees them). Nagas and their society organizations are usually quick to generalize and to assume. What has, in recent years, also become quite visible, especially for the tribes belonging to the Tenyimia group, is to quickly join the pack and run with the “mainstream” – this is not the “pure democracy” and “independent spirit” and “veto power of the individual” that their people had lived in the recent past and handed down through the generations since time immemorial! Together with this is seen, in ever larger measure, an acquired practise of servility to the master which was earlier witnessed only among their “Indian” neighbours and which they used to scoff at!

How has this come about? The reasons could be many. But the most visible one is the promotion of personal interests and the constant struggle and seeking for self-gain. The desire for self-gain has, on the one hand led to loss of ability to think straight, to speak forthright and to stand for truth while on the other hand, it has led the empowered to demand blind obedience, even servility from those less able or less empowered than themselves. The result is loss of dignity for both. The desire or capacity to think far into the future and for things of lasting value no longer seems available or hold appeal while all considerations have become temporary and of immediate gratification. In such an environment, there is little or no scope for statesmanship. The “Peyu” (wisdom) of old has become subsumed by wealth. In olden days, our people used to say, “Rich is he?So what? He is not Peyu!” Such a statement in the present milieu is just no longer possible.

The biggest loss is that we are losing our ability to think independently. Some years ago I recall my senior

friend, Professor Niu Francis Whiso. Through a friend, I had subscribed a copy of the Manchester Guardian for him to read. For a while he was very happy and expressed gratitude to me. But some months later, when I asked him again, his reaction was, “I have stopped reading it!”. I asked him why and he said, “The analytical/opinion pieces were so good and I enjoyed reading them so much that I began to stop thinking for myself; so I have stopped reading!” Today, what is the trend we are seeing? If a leader, especially a minister, makes an average statement; his fans and followers would blindly start forwarding and issuing their statements in support and the vast majority would follow suit! Our civil society bodies are full of good and capable men but many of these bodies are also filled with political camp followers!

An easy example at the moment is what is going on in connection with the Naga Mothers Association (NMA). Due to differences of opinion, especially in connection with the ULB elections, and the strident views of some women on gender equality, the organization is being demonised and condemned by civil society organizations, particularly from the tribe bodies. What seems to have escaped most people is that organizations and individuals who may be its officials for the time being are two different things. However likeable or distasteful, individual office bearers are temporary while the organization itself is a more permanent entity and we need to make differentiation between the two. What has been tragic is that when a strong collective body of our people emerge, we seem to have a penchant to come together to attack it and destroy it till it lies in dust. The same thing happened with the undivided Naga Hoho which at one time, under Melhupra Vero, became a most respected body. Our own political organizations (Overground and Underground) tried to infiltrate the Naga Hoho with their “moles” and “agents” in an effort to manipulate it in their favour until the organization was no longer respected and acceptable to all Nagas as capable of representing the Naga people – today, once again, Nagas do not have a strong reputable and cohesive people’s organization that can represent and speak for our people. How tragic is that?

Similarly, the Naga

Mothers Association (NMA) had become a recognized and respected body, especially with their “shed no more blood” campaign at a time when most Nagas were cowering fearfully and staying silent in the face of fratricide and targeted daily assassinations. This is a contribution of the NMA that I, for one, will never forget. Also what happened to the saying, “I do not agree with you but I will fight for your right to speak your beliefs?!” It is true that some of the women have forgotten that Naga women have always been known for their “healing touch” and that Naga society had itself has probably survived at some difficult times because of them; instead they have exhibited a callousness that did not mind further fragmenting society in the false, if fervent, belief that they were fighting for the emancipation of Naga women. Like their Naga men counterparts, they too became enamoured of symbolisms. I do not agree with some of the views as espoused by NMA officials especially on gender equality because I think what they are saying is largely a foreign concept (more later), but surely, there are ways for everyone to express their views other than to completely condemn the organization.

In the light of these happenings, one also has to ask the question, “What is the role of the State Government and the State machinery?” This question comes up because, like it or not, the machinery of State is the only Money Tree in Nagaland and everyone not only expectantly waits for their share but also do all they can to shake the Tree so that its fruits will fall on them! This State Machinery has become so powerful. It can either be used to save the Naga people or it can totally destroy our peoplehood and our future. Take the issue of Corruption which most Nagas say concerns them. In Nagaland, the very creation of Nagaland Statehood has made possible widespread corruption. Why? Because, for a very long time, most Nagas treated money coming from Delhi as “Indian Money” and not their own as they did not feel they were Indians! This meant no one was demanding accountability from their leaders on how State money was being used even when these leaders were using the money as if it was their own personal money! And, this in the background of the fact that Naga society

went from Barter Economy to War Economy during the World War II and since then remained at “Insurgency Economy”! Today, when many Nagas talk about fighting corruption in Naga society, few think about the role played by Nagaland State itself. But if we do not go to the root, we risk treating the symptoms without ever curing the disease.

And what about the G-20/B-20 summit that has just been held in Nagaland to show-case that Nagaland is an integral part of India and Nagas are Indians even while resolution of the Naga Issue is ignored and the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) has still to be extended all the time while no sanction will be granted by the Government of India for the killings of innocent Naga civilians? – following the successful experiment in Nagaland, the G-20 template is now being attempted in Kashmir along with a 30 billion Rupee smart city scheme for Srinagar! State or no state, Nagas still find themselves in an existential limbo, living a kind of dual personality and identity and they will continue to be like this so long as the Naga Political Issue is not resolved. But, apart from verbal diarrhoea, by both Naga leaders and GoI about resolving this most-important issue at the earliest, and going through the motions, including doing away with all “oppositions”, little seems to actually move forward. In the meantime, the Nagas, tribes and all, continue their “equi-distant” existence, blissfully continuing their in-fighting and not too bothered about their own hopeless fragmentations. Any issue will do to divert their focus and to pit themselves into opposing camps and to start arguing. Meanwhile, the Naga feeling of fatigue about their Political Issue is being reenforced through delays so that the sense of hopelessness and fatigue will become a habit. “Non-Nationalistic” behaviours of the various UG cadres through extortions etc and crony capitalism by the Overground State Machinery fit very well into this play – by the way, the two biggest Factions in Naga society are the Overground and Underground although most Nagas seem to have forgotten this fact!

The recent Municipal elections issue, important as it may be, is not free either. But in this regard, it will be worthwhile to remember that while the demands of Statehood may have made

some taxation imperative in a self-governing environment, it was Naga refusal to pay taxes to foreign rulers that first led to Naga resistance against British Imperialism. The 1879-80 Battle of Khonoma and Naga desire to remain as free as they always were was all about refusal to pay taxes to someone else for lands that belonged to them! The Naga Memorandum to the Simon Commission in 1929 again reflected this wish and the reason why the Naga leaders demanded to remain outside the Reformed Scheme of India. Even the 16-Points Agreement (Point No 11), the legal document that first gave Government of India legitimate claim over Nagaland, specifically and categorically made provision for Nagaland to be financed in a different pattern from other states in India. Even then, early administrators of the Government of Nagaland complained that “the collection of Annual House Tax was one of the most difficult and risky task … amidst the tremendous impediments posed by the UGs with their full might where they had completely gripped and sealed the villages” (Nagas 80 Plus, page 129). Against this backdrop, a wise Government would be very careful to remember Naga history because that is how our people have come to be where we are!

The Naga Political Issue is probably the oldest unresolved conflict situation in the world today. The Issue which started nearly a century ago has continued to defy solution despite many attempts and even near resolutions in the past. Somehow, something always seemed to go wrong whenever an opportunity for resolving it arose. In the early days, the Naga Nationalists were in no mood to compromise their stand of Naga Independence and failed to see that the Government of India was in no position to talk of Naga Independence.

Government of India has also tried all stratagems, including military solutions – at least one military commander is said to have even boasted that he would “finish the Naga Problem” within six months – but failed. Today, the situation has become much more different today and has taken a complete turn-around with the Government of India in a position to literally do what it wants while the Nagas have become fragmented and with the NSCN-IM, the best trained group, unwilling to accept

the other Naga groups on equal footing which has remained one of the main hurdles.

What is also surprising is that at a time when the vast majority of Naga people are clamouring for “solution”, Government of India apparently is not taking advantage and even seems to play delay tactics. Also, while the GoI is said to have accepted the “unique position and history of the Naga people”, there has been no visible attempt to solve the Issue on that basis. Instead, we see prominent members of the Government, including Governor R N Ravi, trying to provide a different narration, squarely still blaming the British for genuine Naga aspirations. An honest straightforward admission of the facts of Naga history, while equally stating that Naga Independence is not possible, as the basis of a lasting agreement has still not been tried after so many decades. Attempts to re-write history in the past had only made the Issue more intractable by adding insult to injury as if the Naga people were incapable of independent thinking. On the other hand, the Orwellian warning that “The most effective way to destroy people is to deny and obliterate their own understanding of their history” still seems to find adherents who try to practice it on the Nagas! GoI need not feel the need to prove that India’s own Kautilya is cleverer than Machiavelli or any other such characters all the time, especially in their dealings with a tiny people like the Nagas where they have already proved many times that they can keep the Nagas divided and the Naga Issue at bay while pretty much doing what they want in Naga society. The G-20/B-20 Summit, in the wake of the Oting massacre of Naga civilians, is an easy recent example. Instead, it will be better and more profitable for everyone, including people of India and it’s Government, if GoI will play its role fully with wisdom, sagacity and statesmanship on the world stage!

The duty of Naga leaders is clear. But those Nagas with the ability to think, and especially those in the field of academia, who can speak more freely, have a bounden duty to Naga society and they must play their roles fully if they have even a modicum of concern for their people and society.

Charles Chasie D’ Block, Kohima 9436016574

Mnp violence explainer: Trouble long brewing, ST status for Meiteis issue just the spark

Ethnic violence, which has engulfed Manipur over the last few days, was brewing for some time as a long history of mutual suspicion between ethnic groups in the Imphal valley and its surrounding hills turned into a simmering conflict after the BJPled Manipur government started a drive to evict tribal villagers from reserved forests.

The spark for the raging violence was lit by demonstrations by tribal groups against a move to grant the majority Meiteis the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which the residents of the hills had been enjoying for decades since Independence.

The government in Manipur, regardless of which party comes to power, has always been dominated by plainsmen Meiteis, who account for about 53 per cent of the state’s population and live mostly in irregular oval-shaped Imphal Valley.

Consequently, the government’s actions have often been viewed through the prism of suspicion by tribals -- mostly Nagas and Kukis -- who make up 40 per cent of Manipur’s population and live for the most part in the hills

surrounding the valley.

Interestingly, the fertile Imphal valley makes up for about a tenth of the total land mass of the state while the surrounding hills, ideal for militant hide-outs and home to a long-running insurgency, account for 90 per cent of the state’s lands.

The eviction drive, which began in February, was seen as yet another anti-tribal move, leading to alarm and widespread discontent not only among the Kuki community which was affected by it but also other tribals who have many villages within reserved forest areas.

Ahead of Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s visit to Churachandpur district last week, a mob vandalised and set on fire the venue in New Lamka town where he was scheduled to address a function.

The mob also managed to partially torch a newly set up open gym which Singh, an ethnic Meitei, was slated to inaugurate on Friday afternoon.

The attack took place barely 11 hours prior to a ‘total shutdown’ called by the Indigenous Tribe Leaders Forum in the entire Churachandpur district.

The Forum claimed that despite the repeated submission of memorandums to the government protesting the ongoing eviction drive to clear reserved forests of farmers and other tribal settlers, “the government has shown no sign of willingness or sincerity in addressing the plight of people”.

General secretary of the Kuki Students Organisation, Churachandpur, D J Haokip, told PTI, “Several areas in the hill district have been declared as reserved forests, protected forests and hundreds of Kuki tribals have been dislodged from their traditional settlement area.”

“The anguish of the Kuki people is not about the evictions but the failure to provide rehabilitation to more than hundreds of those affected,” Haokip added.

The Kukis are represented by 10 legislators, including five BJP MLAs, in the 60-member Manipur Assembly. The Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA), which is an ally of the ruling BJP government, has two MLAs.

“We have six MLAs from Churachandpur district and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) has asked them to come

out and state their stance on the eviction drive. If they fail to respond, our future course of action will include socially boycotting them,” Haokip said.

Earlier in March, a violent clash occurred at Thomas Ground in Kangpokpi district where protesters tried to hold a mass rally against “encroachment of tribal lands in the name of reserved forests, protected forests and wildlife sanctuary”.

Five persons were injured in that rally following which the state cabinet withdrew the tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) talks with two Kuki-based militant outfits, Kuki National Army and Zomi Revolutionary Army.

SoO agreement is a ceasefire arrangement inked by the Centre, state government and Kuki outfits that began more than a decade ago. The cabinet also reiterated its stance that the “state government will not compromise on steps taken to protect the state government’s forest resources and for eradicating poppy cultivation”.

Even as discontent grew over the eviction of the villagers, three churches in Imphal’s Tribal colony area were demolished on April 11

for being “illegal constructions” on government land, leading to more discontent.

This meant that when the ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organised by the All Tribal Student Union Manipur (ATSUM) was announced for Wednesday to protest the move to grant ST status to the Meitei community, there were justified apprehensions that this could lead to tension clashes.

The march was organised by Nagas and Kuki tribals after the Manipur High Court asked the state government last month to send a recommendation to the Centre within four weeks on the demand for ST status by the Meitei community.

However, no one imagined that it would degenerate into the spiral of violence which engulfed the state often called the jewel of the northeast like a forest fire, killing and wounding scores, forcing thousands of people to flee from their homes and see the central government rushing in large numbers of Army, Assam Rifles and central police forces to contain the situation.

By Phanjoubam Chingkheinganba, PTI

man dies. Not every man lives.”

~ William Wallace

SNIPPETS

6 held, drugs worth

Rs 85 crore seized

NEW DELHI, MAY 6

(PTI): The Special Cell of Delhi Police has arrested six people, including a woman, in two separate operations and recovered drugs worth over Rs 85 crore in international market, officials said on Saturday. A total of 101.62 kg opium and 2 kg heroin, worth more than Rs 85 crore in international market, and Rs 7.5 lakh hawala money, were seized, police said. “A raid was conducted and the duo was apprehended. A total of 5.31 kg opium was recovered from the possession of Lakhpat and 96.31 kg opium, which was concealed between 682 gunny bags containing coconuts, was recovered from the truck,” Special Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) H G S Dhaliwal said.

Nine killed in two road accidents

AHMEDABAD, MAY

6 (PTI): Nine persons, including five women and two children, were killed in two separate road accidents in Gujarat’s Devbhumi Dwarka and Surat districts on Saturday, police said. In Surat district, six members of a family, including three women and two children, were killed near Bardoli town when the car they were travelling in was hit by a dumper truck on a national highway, a police official said.

8 B’deshi nationals held for illegal stay

THANE, MAY 6 (PTI):

Police in Maharashtra’s

Thane district have arrested eight Bangladeshi nationals, including six women, for staying without a visa or passport, an official said on Saturday.

The Bangladeshi nationals were taken into custody from Nayanagar in Mira Road on Thursday, said senior inspector Sameer Ahirrao from the Anti Human Trafficking Cell of the Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar police.

LeT militant killed in encounter in J-K

Srinagar, May 6 (PTI):

A Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militant was killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, police said. After receiving information about the presence of militants in the Karhama Kunzer area of Baramulla, a cordon and search operation was launched, a police official said. It turned into an encounter after militants fired upon the forces who retaliated. One militant was killed in the exchange of fire, the official said.

3 teenagers drown in village pond

BANASKANTHA, MAY 6 (PTI): Three teenagers, including two sisters and their cousin brother, drowned in a pond in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, police said on Saturday. The girls died trying to save their cousin, he said.

The incident occurred at Uchosan village in Suigam taluka on Friday evening when two brothers went into a pond to take a bath, and one of them started drowning after going deep into the water body.

Lightning kills 2 in J&K’s Budgam district

SRINAGAR, MAY 6 (IANS): Two persons were killed after a lightning struck the Mujpathri meadow in J&K’s Budgam district on Saturday. “Two persons, who gave been identified as Taja Begum and Muhammad Sultan Chopan, were killed in the accident. A team of officials has left for Mujpathri immediately after the report of the incident was received,” officials said.

Cong looted money of farmers: Modi

Holds massive roadshow in Bengaluru

BENG ALURU/BADAMI/HAVERI, MAY 6 (PTI): Cautioning people of Karnataka against Congress’ guarantees’ ahead of Assembly polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called the promise of ‘Garibi Hatao’ announced by the party 50 years ago as its “biggest fraud in the history”, which is still going on.

He also said people across different communities in Karnataka are angry about Congress’ “abuses and lies” during the poll campaign, and would respond to it during voting on May 10. The Prime Minister today held a massive roadshow in Bengaluru and addressed two public rallies at Badami in Bagalkote district and Haveri, campaigning for next week’s Assembly election

PM Modi waves at supporters and party workers during a roadshow in Bengaluru, Saturday. (PTI)

Modi said the overwhelming response he received in Bengaluru has made him believe that it is the people who are fighting the 2023 Assembly polls in Karnataka on behalf of the BJP.

“Congress people in Karnataka are spreading lies. All their lies have flown away in BJP’s storm. Those who feel that Congress still has something left, please come and see here (in Karnataka). Every citizen of Karnataka is aware of the Congress’ appeasement and ‘taalabandi’ (ban) policies,”

Modi said. Addressing a public meeting in Haveri, he said OBCs, Lingayats and all other communities are angry about abuses of Congress’ top leaders, and their anger has now turned into a resolve and a decision to bring BJP back to power with full majority in the state.

Noting that after Independence, Congress ruled both the country and state for decades, the Prime Minister said BJP’s “doubleengine” government under former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa’s and incum-

Live streaming of court proceedings has flipside, judges need to be trained: CJI

CUTTACK, MAY 6 (IANS): Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud on Saturday said live streaming of court proceedings has a flipside, adding the judges need to be trained “because every word that we say is up in the public realm”.

Speaking at the Neutral Citation for the Indian Judiciary and National Conference on Digitisation, CJI Chandrachud said: “Today, most of the High Courts are doing live streaming on YouTube. You have those little clips about a judge in the Patna High Court asking an IAS officer why he was not appropriately dressed, or somebody in the Gujarat High Court saying something about why a lawyer is not ready with her cases.

“A lot of funny stuff is going on YouTube, which we need to control because this is serious. What happens in a court is extremely serious stuff. Live streaming we are doing has a flip side. We as judges need to train ourselves as we are now working in the age of social media,” said the CJI.

Chandrachud said he realised this during the live stream of constitution bench arguments.

“Very often, citizens don’t realise that what we say in the course of hearing is to open up a dialogue. What you said does not necessarily reflect what you have decided in a case. But, people don’t understand this at large,” he said.

“So, live streaming or interface with social media places new demands on us as judges. We need to create a robust cloud infrastructure for live streaming,” the CJI said.

He further said there is a need for creating cloud infrastructure for live streaming and it is perhaps one way to have a central national

VHP issues legal notice to Kharge for defaming Bajrang Dal

NEW DELHI, MAY 6

(PTI): The Vishva Hindu Parishad has issued a legal notice to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, accusing him of making defamatory remarks against the Bajrang Dal in his party’s Karnataka poll manifesto and demanding a compensation of Rs 100 crore.

The notice was issued by the Chandigarh unit of the VHP and its youth wing Bajrang Dal on May 4, demanding the compensation within 14 days. There was no immediate response from Congress on the queries sent to the party in this regard.

In its poll manifesto for May 10 assembly polls in Karnataka, the Congress said it is committed to take firm and decisive action against individuals and organisations such as the Bajrang Dal and the Popular Front of India (PFI) “spreading hatred” among communities on grounds of caste and religion.

The action will include a “ban” against such organisations, the party promised.

“That in the manifesto at Page 10, you made defamatory statements against the Bajrang Dal, associate body of the Vishva Hindu Parishad by declaring to ban the organisation and comparing it to outlawed terrorist organisations like the Popular Front of India and similar terrorist organisations like Students Islamic Movement

of India (SIMI) which are outlawed under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act by the Government of India,” VHP’s lawyer and co-head of its legal cell Sahil Bansal charged in the legal notice. “The PFI and SIMI are terrorist organisations associated with Al Qaeda and ISIS and other global terrorist organisations proscribed by the United Nations General Assembly and by more than 100 nations as well as proscribed under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act,” he added. Bansal claimed the Bajrang Dal “believes in universalism, tolerance, dharmic unity, national integrity and service towards Bharat Mata and in doing so seeks inspiration from the reverential example of Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman who are the ideal embodiment of Dharma and Service”.

The Bajrang Dal is “totally devoted to the service of dharma and in doing so devoted to the service of mankind”, the VHP’s counsel said, adding, “Unto that end the credentials of the Bajrang Dal are unassailable and unimpeachable.”

bent Basavaraj Bommai’s leadership has been here for only three-and-half years. He complimented the “double-engine” government’s efforts for the development that happened in such a short span, especially in Haveri district.

The Congress could have done developmental work during its tenure, but accomplished nothing, Modi said, adding Congress means total corruption, scam, 85 per cent commission, a party that surrenders before terror, that prioritises appeasement, and that believes in “divide and rule” policy.

“Development cannot take place under Congress’ rule because it loots money,” he opined. He claimed that for long Congress’ practice has been to make false commitments and when people ask about fulfilling them on coming to power, they say a committee has been formed to look into it, adding the party has been making several false guarantees in Karnataka.

Modi only cares for his ‘grand tamasha’, says Congress on PM’s roadshow

NEW DELHI, MAY 6

(PTI): The Congress on Saturday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “master of distortion” and accused him of caring only for his “grand tamasha” and not the inconvenience caused by his 26-km roadshow in Bengaluru. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh alleged ambulances were stuck on roads due to the chaos caused by the roadshow and said that Modi should cancel the second part of the roadshow slated for Sunday. With just four days to go for the Karnataka assembly polls, Modi held a massive roadshow from Someshwar Bhavan RBI Ground in Bengaluru South to Malleshwaram’s Sankey Tank. The prime minister will hold another roadshow on Sunday morning.

“The Master Of Distortion and Incitement (‘Abuse’ No. 92??) is arriving in Bengaluru today. We already know what he’ll say to in-

flame prejudice and bigotry,” Ramesh said on Twitter ahead of Modi’s roadshow.

He said the prime minister will stay absolutely silent on the real issues of Karnataka like “40 per cent commission sarkar, intolerable price rise, rising unemployment, and a forever under-construction and dugup Bengaluru”. “This time the despair is so high that his #40km40percent roadshow over 2 days is locking up an entire city, creating chaos & uncertainty for students writing crucial exams, and felling a number of trees,” the Congress leader said.

“Have you ever seen a PM this desperate,” he asked. After the roadshow,

Ramesh said Modi should cancel its second part scheduled for Sunday.

“Ambulances stuck, chaos on road!

“If the PM has any shame left or even an iota of concern for the people of Bengaluru, he would immediately cancel part 2 of the #40km40percent roadshow tomorrow. But we all know that all he cares for is his Grand Tamasha,” Ramesh tweeted. He also shared a video of a traffic jam.

In another tweet, he said, “Jawans have been martyred, Wrestlers are protesting, Manipur is burning… And all the Prime Minister can think of is rallying to save the BJP from a humiliating defeat in Karnataka. Pathetic priorities!” Modi’s three-hour roadshow traversed through parts of south and central Bengaluru, touching about a dozen assembly segments. He waved at large crowds that gathered on both sides of the route.

VP Dhankhar exhorts Indian community in London

cloud infrastructure and additional hardware for courts.

Next important area is technical advancements which the third phase envisages and this will refer to software developments, the use of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and digital accessibility, he added.

Stating that artificial intelligence has a flip side as well, Chandrachud said: “For instance, it would be very difficult in allowing artificial intelligence to tell us what sentence to hand down following a conviction in a criminal case.”

Speaking about his vision to create paperless and virtual courts, the CJI said: “The Supreme Court is not the Supreme Court of Tilak Marg, it is for India, of India, by India. Likewise, each High Court is not the High Court of the capital of the state, but the citizens across the state.”

“Odisha has opened virtual courts in 22 districts. We cannot have benches of the High Court in as many districts as we have set up virtual courts. The opening

LONDON, MAY 6 (PTI): India is proud of its 32-million-strong diaspora which must continue to counter “ill-premised” and “unfounded” narratives about the country and act as its 24x7 ambassadors, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar has said.

Dhankhar, who is in the UK on a two-day visit to attend the Coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey in London, addressed the Indian community on Friday night. He focussed his address on the impressive growth strides being made by India and its success story as a “democracy functioning at an unmatched level”.

He spoke of its “Amrit Kaal” achievements under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi marking 75 years of independence and highlighted the government’s target to become the third-largest economy by the turn of the decade.

“The moment of glory for India has come and that moment is being reflected by the ground real-

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VP Dhankhar speaks during an interaction with the members of the Indian community, in London, Friday. (PTI) ity, the world is recognising it,” said Dhankhar. India is proud of its diaspora. They remain fully committed to the karam bhumi, and also to their janam bhumi, he said.

“Every one of you has to be a 24x7 ambassador of Bharat… India is now the hub of manufacturing ac-

tivity for the globe. I would therefore appeal to all of you, in whatever manner you can contribute to the growth of the nation, for the rise in its reputation and to ensure that untenable, ill-premised, unfounded, baseless narratives do not take strides in the public domain,” he

urged the gathering.

“No one is against honest assessment or criticism, that will always help us attain our goals. But malicious, pernicious orchestration is antithetical to good conscience. We must antidote it,” he added.

Dhankhar went on to speak at length about India’s achievements across various sectors, including digital transformation, healthcare and vaccines, space technology and infrastructure growth.

“Our institutions are spinally independent. The Election Commission of India can be a guiding factor, a lighthouse, for the rest of the world on how to conduct elections fairly, efficiently, and in the shortest time,” he said.

DP-1954/23

Jairam Ramesh

CJI D.Y. Chandrachud

Mallikarjun Kharge

Government is on inflation watch: Nirmala Sitharaman

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (AGENCIES): India’s inflation has been above the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) tolerance band of 2-6 per cent, however, the government is taking steps to control it, said Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday.

“Because we took a very calibrated approach, today we have an inflation which is slightly above the tolerance limit, but which is constantly being worked at so it can be brought down,” Reuters quoted Sitharaman as saying. India’s annual retail inflation for March rose at the slowest pace in nearly 15 months and was below the central bank’s upper tolerance level for the first time this year, on the back of softer food prices. Inflation was expected to average 5.2 per cent in

the current fiscal year, well above the medium-term target of 4.0 per cent, according to a separate Reuters poll. In an attempt to rein in the prices, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has so far hiked the benchmark repurchase rate by 250 basis points cumulatively since May 2022. In the last fiscal, which ended March 31, RBI projected average annual retail inflation at 6.5 per cent.

In a surprise move, the Monetary Policy Commit-

NCP state unit welcomes Pawar’s decision to continue as party chief

DIMAPUR: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Nagaland state unit has welcomed party’s national president Sharad Pawar’s decision to take back his resignation.

In a letter to party chief, NCP Nagaland unit president Vanthungo Odyuo on behalf of the seven legislators and the rank and file of state unit conveyed happiness and “profound thankfulness” for his magnanimity, love and genuine concern by giving the party hope and strength with his decision to continue as the president of the party that nurtured way back in 1999.

“Your wise decision to put party workers interest first and reversing earlier announcement to lead us again to greater height has amply exhibited that you are man of great Political sagacity,” Odyuo said.

State unit president stated that Pawar’s perseverance, judgements, discernment, perception and thoughtfulness have further won the trust and respect of party workers.

He said that unit looked forward for his continuous support and guidance. “With you as our Chief we will endeavour to expand our party influence in Nagaland,” Odyuo said and wished him good health and long life “in the service of this great country.”

tee (MPC) recently decided to keep repo rate unchanged at 6.50 per cent. At the press conference after the policy announcement, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said that the move “is a pause and not a pivot” because “MPC wanted to assess the impact of the cumulative 250 basis points hike in the policy rates since May last”.

Deputy Governor Michael Patra chipped in to reiterate that the pause is “valid only till 10 am on June 8, 2023, when the Governor will announce the next policy”.

The RBI in this meeting marginally cut retail inflation projection to 5.2 per cent in the current fiscal, but flagged adverse climatic conditions and rising uncertainty in international financial markets as future risks. Although the expecta-

‘Anomalous’ situation if women quota in

tion of a record Rabi harvest bodes well for easing of food price pressures, milk prices are likely to remain firm going into the summer season due to tight demand-supply balance and fodder cost pressures, RBI said.

Aditi Nayar, the chief economist & head of research at Icra Ratings, said financial stability concerns appear to have pre-empted the move as MPC assesses the impact of its cumulative 250 bps of rate hikes.

“But if inflation does not fall in line with MPC assessment for Q1FY24, another hike could be in the offing, especially if the financial stability situation stabilises.” “Broad base softening of prices has contributed to fall in inflation, which is a good news. We are expecting inflation to fall below 5% in Q1 FY24 due to base effect.

(From p-1)

Meanwhile, senior consultant surgeon, Dr Joel Ngullie, informed that on May 4, six patients were transferred to the hospital from Manipur, one more on Friday night and another on Saturday.

Dr. Ngullie said one patient passed away on the way to the hospital here.

He said patients that were brought in critical condition, but all of their conditions stabilised after being kept under observation. He said the hospital conducted emergency surgeries on the day the patients were admitted and was ready for any surgery if required.

While most patients suffered bullet injury, the doctor informed that one patient suffered liver and kidney injuries.

The doctor disclosed that the hospital was equipped with facilities and manpower to treat more patients in case of emergencies.

Death toll in Manipur violence rise to 54

(From p-1)

The people (opposed to this evacuation) gathered at the town’s main road, Tidim Road to barricade it. We put women at the front of the barricade because we thought that they would not be fired at. But the security opened fire and four people died,” he alleged.

An Assam Rifles official in Imphal said he had received inputs that a gathering of “80-200” people had taken place and that four people died in the firing.

“Evacuation of people from different parts of the state is constantly going on,” he said, adding that the blockading of roads continues to be common in different parts of the state.

A senior official from the central security forces also confirmed four people had died, while a senior police official from the district put the number at three.

This shooting in Churachandpur comes after days of fierce clashes between the state’s majority Meitei community and the Kuki tribe, which had also originated in the area on Wednesday.

A CRPF CoBRA commando identified as Chonkholen Haokip, who was on leave, was also shot dead on Friday when he tried to stop men setting a village on fire.

Const Chonkholen Haokip of the delta company of the 204th CoBRA battalion was killed around 2-3 pm, officials said.

The circumstances in which he was killed are not clear, but it is understood that some assailants donning police-like fatigue entered his village and killed him, senior officials told PTI.

Drones, Army choppers pressed into service: IANS: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Army helicopters have

been pressed into service for aerial surveillance in ethnic violence-hit Manipur, while the Army, Assam Rifles, and other Central paramilitary forces are on round-the-clock vigil in the trouble-torn districts.

Defence sources said that multiple rounds of aerial surveillance using Cheetah helicopters have already been conducted by the Army since Saturday morning in different parts of Manipur.

“The ongoing crisis in Manipur may create a new security dimension as insurgent groups staying in camps along the India-Myanmar border may prove detrimental to the massive efforts to restore normalcy in the state,” said a source. The issue is being addressed pro-actively by the security forces who are leaving no stone unturned to thwart the nefarious designs, the source said.

(From p-1)

The state’s decision to repeal the Nagaland Municipal Act on March 29 had invited the wrath of the top court which issued notices to the state chief minister, chief secretary seeking explanation and sought a response from the Centre on how a constitutional mandate to implement 33%% reservation for women in municipalities could be rendered futile in this manner by a state.

This matter will be taken up for hearing on May 18.

The state said that while Article 371A seeks to protect the unique history, identity and socio-economic features of Nagaland’s tribes, this exercise is complex, sensitive and emotive as the different tribes, comprising 15 recognised tribes, do not have uniform customs, laws and practices, and many have no written record of the same.

This has made consultative meetings aimed towards finding a consensus

between the various tribes on the necessity of holding urban local body polls a challenge.

Elections at the municipal level could not be held for the past two decades due to the recurrent history of boycotts and violence by various tribal groups.

The state told the Court that while it endeavoured to hold polls and rollout reservation for women in urban local bodies, the boycott by tribal bodies forced a rethink and led the state to repeal the Act.

“It continues to be the intent of the Government to conduct elections expeditiously and to conclude this issue fruitfully and amicably. The Government endeavours to do this by considering all issue by bringing on board all the stakeholders to find a consensus.”

It was in September 2012 when the Nagaland assembly passed a resolution not to give effect to the 33% women reservation in urban

local bodies. This resolution was challenged by NGO Peoples Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) in the Supreme Court in 2016.

Though the assembly withdrew the resolution in November 2016, the law was not implemented due to opposition by state tribal leaders who indulged in large scale violence. The Court had been pushing the state to give women their rightful due.

On March 14, the Court passed an order for holding elections and directed that any authority or person acting contrary to this order be seen as acting in breach of the Court’s order. It was citing this order, PUCL moved an application before the Court seeking contempt of Court action to be initiated against the state government, its officials and the state election commission. It is in these proceedings that the recent affidavit of the state was filed.

Manipur violence: More organisations appeal...

(From p-1)

GNF through its media cell called upon Nagas worldwide to remain vigilant, understanding that the challenges of the present and the pursuit of a better future were more crucial than dwelling on the darker aspects of the past and the current situation.

The forum also called upon all responsible to strive for peace, unity, and understanding “as we work towards a harmonious society where every individual is respected and valued.”

Together, we can overcome these divisive forces and build a future that is marked by compassion, justice, and inclusivity. May the voices of reason and reconciliation prevail, and may Manipur and its diverse communities find healing and prosperity in the days ahead. Further, GNF appealed to the mainland Indian media not to sensationalize and exploit the ST demand by the Meitei community as a religious conflict between Hindus and Christians. It urged the media to report responsibly, promote unbiased narratives, and contribute to a constructive dia-

logue that promotes understanding and harmony among all communities involved. Meanwhile, GNF conveyed deep condolences to the grieving families who have lost their loved ones in the recent devastating events in Manipur.

The forum also expressed solidarity with those who have been injured and their families.

NMA: Unequivocally condemning the killings, arson and destruction of churches and private properties, the Naga Mother’s Association (NMA) has appealed for peace and called for an end to violence and bloodshed in Manipur. NMA through its media cell called upon the chief minister of Manipur to ensure that respect for human rights was strictly maintained and protected by the State government.

The Naga mothers also urged Meira Paibis and the Kuki women of Manipur to facilitate for peace and sanity amongst communities.

NMA appreciated the mothers and women of Churachandpur, who ensured safe passage of the Meities living there. Meanwhile, NMA conveyed deepest condo-

lences for the loss of lives and prayed that God heal the deeply wounded and give them hope.

OTS: Oriental Theological Seminary (OST) expressed pain and grief at the conflict in Manipur resulting in the loss of precious lives and destruction of properties, places of worship, and educational centres.

In a statement, OTS principal Dr. Joshua Lorin and Dean of Students Dr. Kumti Aier stated that the deteriorating situation must stop from all sides to prevent the cycle of violence and further loss of lives and properties.

OST also strongly condemned all kinds of violence and hatred perpetrated by “lawless anarchist” on all sides—whether government agencies, communities, or individuals. “Violence and hatred in any form are monstrous, appalling, and doomed,” OST stated and appealed to the government, communities, organizations, and individuals in Manipur to make concerted efforts to conciliate the situation so all communities continue to live and coexist together peacefully.

Household spending increased by more than 50%, shows Axis My India survey

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (AGENCIES): The overall household spending has increased for 56 per cent of families in April across rural and urban India, according to the India Consumer Sentiment Index, a monthly analysis of consumer perception compiled by Axis My India. The states, which reflected the highest increase, are West Bengal with 70 per cent, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Telangana with 61 per cent.

According to Business Today, the net score of consumer sentiments on household spending decreased by 1 per cent compared to last month. It was +49 last month, which has decreased by 1 to +48 this month, the survey re-

port said. The findings are based on a survey of 10,206 people across India, of which 64 per cent are from rural areas and the rest of the 36 per cent are from urban areas.

Spending on essentials like personal care & household items has increased for 32 per cent of families,

which reflects a dip of 1 per cent from last month. The net score, which was at +21 last month, remains the same this month. Essential spending has increased more for families with a monthly income of Rs 2130,000 (37 per cent). Karnataka reflects the highest essential spending with 45 per cent, the report said.

Nirmala Sitharaman

SNIPPETS

4 killed during rainstorm in Afghan JALALABAD (AFGHANISTAN), MAY

6 (IANS): Heavy rains and flash floods killed four people and injured 25 others in Afghanistan’s eastern Nangarhar province, said a statement of the provincial government released here on Saturday.

Heavy rains, which triggered flash floods in the province on Friday evening, killed four people, including three children, the statement added. The destructive floods washed away or badly damaged 300 houses, the statement said, adding that thousands of acres of farmlands were also destroyed, Xinhua news agency reported.

176 dead after

Congo floods

KINSHASA, MAY 6 (AP): The death toll from flash floods and landslides in eastern Congo has risen to 176, with some 100 people still missing, according to a provisional assessment given by the governor and authorities in the country’s South Kivu province. Rivers broke their banks in villages in the territory of Kalehe close to the shores of Lake Kivu. Authorities also reported scores of people injured.

S.Korea to lower crisis level for Covid-19

SEOUL, MAY 6 (IANS):

South Korea plans to “swiftly” lower its national crisis level for Covid-19, the head of the country’s public health agency said on Saturday, after the WHO declared an end to the virus as a global health emergency earlier this week. KDCA Commissioner Jee Young-mee made the announcement in a statement, following WHO’s move on Friday to end the public health emergency of international concern that had been in place since January 2020.

Brazil urges people to continue Covid-19 vax BRASILIA, MAY 6 (IANS): Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has urged people to continue to get Covid-19 vaccines, though the WHO declared the Covid-19 pandemic no longer a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern”. “Despite the end of the state of emergency, the pandemic is not over yet. Take the booster doses and make sure your vaccination schedule is always complete,” Lula tweeted on Friday.

Afghan forces kill 2 IS operatives in Kabul

KABUL, MAY 6 (IANS):

Afghan security forces launched operations against suspected hideout of the Daesh or hardliner Islamic State (IS) outfit on the outskirts of the capital city Kabul a news statement of Afghanistan’s GDI said. The operations were launched in Bagrami district of the province on Friday evening during which two members of the armed group were killed, Xinhua news agency reported.

1 mn polio vaccines destroyed in Sudan: UN KHARTOUM, MAY 6 (AGENCIES): More

than 1 million polio vaccines intended for children have been destroyed as a result of looting in Sudan during the upsurge in violence since April, the U.N. children’s agency UNICEF told Reuters on Friday. “A number of cold chain facilities have been looted, damaged and destroyed, including over a million polio vaccines in South Darfur,” Hazel De Wet, deputy director of the Office of Emergency Programmes, UNICEF told Reuters in an email.

Ukraine shoots down Russian hypersonic missile using US Patriot

KYIV, MAY 6 (AP): Ukraine’s air force claimed Saturday to have downed a Russian hypersonic missile over Kyiv using newly acquired American Patriot defense systems, the first known time the country has been able to intercept one of Moscow’s most modern missiles.

Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk said in a Telegram post that the Kinzhal-type ballistic missile had been intercepted in an overnight attack on the Ukrainian capital earlier in the week. It was also the first time Ukraine is known to have used the Patriot defense systems.

“Yes, we shot down the ‘unique’ Kinzhal,” Oleshchuk wrote. “It happened during the night time attack on May 4 in the skies of the Kyiv region.”

Oleshchuk said the Kh47 missile was launched by a MiG-31K aircraft from the Russian territory and was shot down with a Patriot missile.

The Kinzhal is one of the latest and most advanced Russian weapons. The Russian military says the airlaunched ballistic missile

has a range of up to 2,000 kilometers (about 1,250 miles) and flies at 10 times the speed of sound, making it hard to intercept.

A combination of hypersonic speed and a heavy warhead allows the Kinzhal to destroy heavily fortified targets, like underground bunkers or mountain tunnels. The Ukrainian military has previously admitted lacking assets to intercept the Kinzhals.

“They were saying that the Patriot is an outdated American weapon, and Russian weapons are the best in the world,” Air Force spokesman Yurii Ihnat said

Israeli army kills two Palestinians in West Bank

on Ukraine’s Channel 24 television. “Well, there is confirmation that it effectively works against even a super hypersonic missile.” Ihnat said.

He said successfully intercepting the Kinzhal is “a slap in the face for Russia.” Ukraine took its first delivery of the Patriot missiles in late April. It has not specified how many of the systems it has or where they have been deployed, but they are known to have been provided by the United States, Germany and the Netherlands. Germany and the U.S. have acknowledged each

Pakistan, China reiterate to continue cooperation on CPEC

ISLAMABAD, MAY 6

sending at least one system and the Netherlands has said it has provided two though it is not clear how many are currently in operation. Ukrainian troops have received the extensive training needed to be able to effectively locate a target with the systems, lock on with radar and fire. Each battery requires up to 90 personnel to operate and maintain.

Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said he first asked for Patriot systems when visiting the U.S. in August 2021, months before Russia’s full-scale invasion but seven years after Russia illegally annexed Ukraine’s Crimea peninsula.

He has described possessing the system as “a dream” but said he was told in the U.S. at the time that it was impossible.

The Patriot was first deployed by the U.S. in the 1980s. The system costs approximately $4 million per missile, and the launchers cost about $10 million each, according to analysts.

At such a cost, it was widely thought that Ukraine would only use the Patriots against Russian aircraft or hypersonic missiles.

(PTI): A day after India criticised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the foreign ministers of Pakistan and China on Saturday expressed their firm commitment to continue their cooperation on the multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.

This came at the 4th edition of the PakistanChina Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad co-chaired by Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang here.

“Pakistan and China have reiterated their abiding commitment to the highquality development of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project,” state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Earlier, speaking at a press conference after the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Goa, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said: “On the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, I think it was made very clear, not once but twice in the SCO meeting, that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial

Iran hangs Iranian-Swedish man for 2018 attack killing 25

DUBAI, MAY 6 (AP): Iran executed an Iranian-Swedish dual national Saturday accused of masterminding a 2018 attack on a military parade that killed at least 25 people, one of several enemies of Tehran seized abroad in recent years amid tensions with the West.

ister Tobias Billstrom condemned Cha’ab’s execution. “The death penalty is an inhumane and irrevocable punishment, and Sweden, together with the rest of the (European Union), condemns its use under all circumstances,” he said in a statement.

Chinese

with Pakistani President Arif Alvi, in Islamabad, Pakistan, Friday. (AP/PTI)

integrity.”

Later, Bilawal addressing a joint press conference with Qin said this year marked the completion of a decade of CPEC, which has accelerated socio-economic development, job creation, and improvement of people’s livelihoods in Pakistan.

The CPEC Corridor is a USD 60 billion corridor being laid through Pakistanoccupied Kashmir (PoK) with China’s assistance.

India is opposed to the CPEC as it passes through the PoK, giving China access to the Arabian Sea through the Gwadar port in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

“This corridor project

remains a win-win economic initiative opened to all investors around the world,” Bilawal said, adding that Pakistan reiterated its “abiding commitment to its [CPEC’s] high-quality development”.

“CPEC remains a shining example of the Belt and Road Cooperation, which is accelerated socio-economic development, job creation and improvement of the people’s livelihoods in Pakistan,” he said.

Bilawal also said Pakistan was profoundly grateful to China for its generous and timely assistance as “we continue to grapple with the headwinds in the global economy”.

Strong quake in central Japan

RAMALLAH, MAY 6

(AP): Israeli forces shot dead two Palestinians during a military raid in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. A local armed group said the pair were militants.

The deadly raid in the Nur Shams refugee camp near the city of Tulkarem was the latest in IsraeliPalestinian violence that has surged since last year.

The ministry and Tulkarem’s branch of Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades, a militant group with connections to President Mahmoud Abbas’ Fatah party, identified the pair as Samer El Shafei and Hamza Kharyoush, both aged 22 years.

The Israeli military said the two gunmen were suspected of carrying out a shooting attack at a nearby

Israeli settlement earlier this week. An Israeli civilian was injured and vehicles were damaged during the shooting at the Avnei Hefetz Jewish settlement.

Videos circulated on social media purportedly showed the lifeless bodies of the two gunmen lying on a tin roof as what appear to be Israeli security forces searched them. At one point, one of the members of the Israeli forces tried to flip one body as he partially took off the dead man’s jeans.

Palestinian media, citing witnesses, said soldiers left after ensuring the two were dead.

The deaths raised to 104 the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank and east Jerusalem since the start of the year.

Farajollah Cha’ab, also known as Habib Asyoud, had been a leader of the Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahwaz, an Arab separatist movement that has conducted oil pipeline bombings and other attacks in Iran’s oil-rich Khuzestan province. That group had claimed the 2018 attack in its immediate aftermath.

Cha’ab’s execution comes as a Swedish court last year sentenced an Iranian to life in prison over his part in the 1988 mass executions in Iran at the end of its war with Iraq. Tehran, which has used prisoners as bargaining chips in negotiations with the West, reacted angrily to that sentence. Meanwhile, tensions also remain high between Iran and the West over its rapidly advancing nuclear program as well — and at least one more prisoner with Western ties faces a possible execution.

The Iranian judiciary’s Mizan news agency confirmed Cha’ab’s execution

Sudan envoys begin talks amid pressure to end conflict

ASWAN, MAY 6 (AP):

Sudan’s warring sides began talks Saturday that aim to firm up a shaky cease-fire after three weeks of fierce fighting that has killed hundreds and pushed the African country to the brink of collapse, the United States and Saudi Arabia said.

The negotiations, the first between the Sudanese military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, since the fighting broke out on April 15, were underway in Saudi Arabia’s coastal city of Jeddah, on the Red Sea, according to a joint Saudi-American statement.

The talks are part of a diplomatic initiative proposed by the kingdom and the U.S. that aims to stop the fighting, which has turned Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, and other urban areas into battlefields and pushed hundreds of thousands from

their homes.

In their joint statement, Saudi Arabia and the U.S. urged both parties to “actively engage in the talks towards a cease-fire and end to the conflict, which will spare the Sudanese people’s suffering.”

The statement did not offer a timeframe for the talks, though it was expected the initial session could last two-three days.

The talks come after concerted efforts by Riyadh

(AP)

and other international powers to pressure the warring sides in Sudan to the negotiating table. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan welcomed the rival sides to Jeddah, saying on Twitter that he hopes the talks would restore “security and stability” in Sudan.

Since a 2021 coup that upended Sudan’s transition to democracy, the kingdom has been mediating between the ruling generals and a pro-democracy movement.

by hanging in a lengthy statement. It identified him as the leader of the militant group and alleged without providing evidence that he had ties to Swedish, Israelis and U.S. intelligence services. It accused his group of killing or wounding 450 people over the years, including multiple attacks on government offices and other sites.

It also included state television interviews with Cha’ab, a feature of many Iranian trials that activists long have described as coerced confessions.

It also for the first time clearly identified Iranian intelligence officers as being behind Cha’ab’s abduction, saying that its “unknown soldiers” captured him in Turkey in November 2019.

Iran has used similar ruses to capture its enemies abroad, including the exiled journalist Ruhollah Zam who was executed in 2020.

Swedish Foreign Min-

Sweden’s Nordic neighbors Finland and Norway also strongly condemned the execution, underlying their stance against the death penalty. “I am appalled,” said Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto.

“This is an example of the Islamic Republic’s state terrorism,” said Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, the group’s director. “We expect that the EU and Swedish government show adequate reaction to the murder of their citizen. Killing a hostage must not be tolerated.”

Tensions already had escalated between Iran and Sweden over the life imprisonment of Hamid Noury, an Iranian convicted in Sweden of committing grave war crimes and murder during the final phase of the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s. The end of the war saw mass executions of an estimated 5,000 Iranian prisoners, including those from an exiled opposition group and others.

IMF negates Pak govt’s claim of meeting loan conditions

ISLAMABAD, MAY 6

(PTI): The IMF has rejected the cash-strapped Pakistan government’s claim that it has met all the conditions to reach an agreement with the global financial body to release funds under an already agreed loan facility, according to a media report.

The International Monetary Fund signed a deal in 2019 to provide USD 6 billion to Pakistan on fulfilment of certain conditions. The plan was derailed several times and the full reimbursement is still pending due to insistence by the donor that Pakistan should complete all formalities.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar have repeatedly claimed that Pakistan met all the prior conditions agreed for reaching a staff-level agreement and there was no reason for holding back the agreement.

The Express Tribune

newspaper reported that it got a statement from the fund on Friday, negating the claim made by the government with respect to meeting all prior actions necessary to complete the 9th review. “The IMF continues to work with the Pakistani authorities to bring the 9th review to a conclusion once the necessary financing is in place and the agreement is finalised,” the newspaper quoted Nathan Porter, the IMF Mission Chief to Pakistan, as saying.

Porter’s statement negated what the Pakistani authorities have been claiming since February 9, when the face-to-face talks ended inconclusively, the newspaper said. Nathan did not explain the quantum of the necessary financing that Pakistan has to put in place to conclude the 9th review for the USD 1.2 billion loan tranche that has been delayed by seven months now.

TOKYO, MAY 6 (AP): A strong, shallow earthquake hit central Japan on Friday afternoon, killing at least one person and injuring more than 20 others and disrupting plans for holidaymakers. The magnitude 6.2 quake struck Ishikawa prefecture on the west coast of Japan’s main island of Honshu, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The Japan Meteorological Agency measured the quake at 6.5 and said it was centered at a depth of about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).

More than 50 aftershocks strong enough to be felt have been recorded since, including one at 5.8 magnitude on Friday night.

Most injuries and damages were reported in Suzu city at the northern tip of Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa prefecture. One person died after falling from a ladder, and 22 others were injured in the prefecture, two of them seriously. The rest

were mild injuries. Some 100 residents took refuge at evacuation centers Friday night, according to the prefectural crisis management department. One injury was reported in the neighboring prefecture of Toyama, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. Several homes were also damaged. On Saturday morning, some residents placed blue plastic tarps over damaged parts of their houses ahead of rain forecasted to begin in the evening. A video broadcast by NHK public television showed a section of a hill that had crumbled and fallen on a house. It also broadcast a video taken by a staff member visiting a relative in Ishikawa prefecture that showed a room shaking for nearly half a minute, with picture frames rattling on the walls. Japan is celebrating several national holidays this week.

Office Of The LOTha ekhuNg Diphupar B chumoukedima : Nagaland

With immense pride and joy, the Ekhung heartily congratulates Shri. N Jacob Yanthan, Rtd. Additional Director, Dept. of Agriculture Govt. of Nagaland for being appointed as Managing Director-cum-Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nagaland State Agricultural Produce & Livestock Management Board (NSAPLMB). He has been a champion and master in his own field utilizing all his expertise for the general welfare. The Ekhung wishes him the best as he sets foot on his new assignment.

Y N Tsanglao Likao Odyuo

Chairman,

LEDB Secy., LEDB

Office Of The PienyünuOmia mechü KrOThO

P. Khel KOhima Village feliciTaTiOn

With immense joy and happiness, we the Pienyünuomia Mechü Krotho P. Khel Kohima Village warmly extends our heartiest congratulations to Shri. Prasielie Pienyü for his appointment as the Chairman, Nagaland Handloom & Handicraft Development Cooperation (NHHDC) Ltd. by the Government of Nagaland.

The Pienyünuomia Krotho lauds his great achievement and prays that Almighty God bless him abundantly and wishes him success in all future endeavors.

Sd/- Sd/Keluolhoulie Pienyü Vibeizolie Pienyü

President General Secretary K-981/23

Patriot missile launchers acquired from the U.S. last year are seen deployed in Warsaw, Poland. (AP)

Foreign Minister Qin Gang meets

Palestinians carry the body of militant Samer El Shafei in the occupied West Bank Saturday. (AP)

Farajollah Cha’ab

A house damaged by Friday’s earthquake is seen in Suzu city, Ishikawa prefecture, central Japan Saturday. (AP)

People crossing Sudan seen at a refugee camp in Renk County, South Sudan on May 3, 2023.

‘Spotify for Artist MASTER CLASS’ workshop held in Dimapur

Musik-A events held a workshop on “Spotify for Artist MASTERCLASS”, on Saturday, here at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur. The event was sponsored by TaFMA.

Highlighting the gathering as the resource person, head, Spotify Artist and Label Partnerships for India, Padmanabhan (Paddy), spoke on how artistes across the globe were using Spotify to share their music with the rest of the world, and at the same time earn through their music.

He noted that there are around 489 millions accessing and listening to Spotify music in the country alone, of which 205 million were paying subscribers.

Padmanabhan also informed that songs from the North Eastern states, were being listened by users in USA and other parts of the country as well.

Speaking on earning through Spotify, Paddy stated that around 30 billion Dollars were paid back to artistes, claiming that since Spotify is an

“Artiste first company”, he informed that every Rupee the app made, 70% is given back to the rights holders. He also covered topics such as Spotify today, Spotify products, Spotify for Artiste, Spotify playlist, Spotify advertising for music, Resources, etc.

Dwelling on the mission of the music app, Paddy noted that its mission was to unlock the potential of human creativity by providing million creative artistes the opportunity to live off their art and also billions of fans the opportunity to enjoy music and get inspired by it.

Paddy also spoke high on the talent of North East musicians. Delivering a short speech, chairman,

What to Eat When

Need to Be Alert?

Does your energy level plummet in the midafternoon? A snack can help revive you, but some choices are better than others. Chocolate has caffeine, and the darker it is, the more of a punch it packs. Fruit can also give you a quick boost, because it has sugar (though not as much as candy, which can set you up to crash and burn). Types rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, help your body turn fat into energy.

Ready to Work Out?

A couple of hours before you exercise is the perfect time to fuel up with healthy carbs. Good choices include whole-grain cereals, wheat toast, pasta, and brown rice. Fruits and vegetables can help you power through, too. It’s best to avoid a big boost of protein, though -- that takes longer to digest. If you’re hungry 5-10 minutes before your workout, try a banana or an apple.

Hungry After Exercise?

Within 1-2 hours of finishing a workout, aim to eat a snack or meal that has both protein and carbohydrates. This will help your muscles recover the fuel you’ve burned. Try a PB&J or turkey sandwich with veggies, yogurt and fruit, pretzels and low-fat chocolate milk, or a healthy smoothie. And of course, drink water to replace the fluids you lost during your sweat session.

Need to Hydrate?

Water is the obvious choice, and that’s a solid strategy. But some foods can boost your hydration, too. Fruits and vegetables that fight thirst include watermelon, iceberg lettuce, celery, cucumber, strawberries, zucchini, and cauliflower.

Want to Stay Calm?

Therapy and medications are the best ways to treat anxiety, but some foods could affect how you feel, too. The mineral zinc has been linked to lower anxiety. Cashews, egg yolks, and oysters are good sources. A serving of salmon can also be a wise choice. The fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acid, which, according to one study, may ease stress. Probiotics, which come in foods such as pickles and sauerkraut, may lessen social anxiety.

Busy Day Ahead?

Oatmeal may be the perfect breakfast when you’re facing a hectic day. It has beta-glucan, a type of fiber that makes you feel

TaFMA, Theja Meru, stated that Spotify helped musicians grow the music business, considering it as the biggest music streaming platform. Noting that it was a big opportunity for Naga Musicians to have Paddy as the resource persons, he thereby urged all the gathering to take notes, enquire and clear their doubts, so as to grow and learn more about the app. Quoting John Lennon, “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality”, he thereby urged all to dream big and to regard the world as our stage.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by Alobo Naga. (Staff Reporter)

Iconic film franchises

‘Harry Potter’ and ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ are returning to Indian cinemas getting a re-release on the big screen to create the magic again.

As part of the 100 years celebration of the iconic studio Warner Bros., audiences in India will get to watch two of the biggest movie franchises on the big screen.

PVR-Inox, Miraj cinemas are releasing the Harry Potter films at their cinemas till May 11. ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy will play in cinemas from May 13 to May 15.

Speaking on the initiative, Denzil Dias, VP & Managing Director India Theatrical at Warner Bros. Discovery said: “As part of our Centennial Celebrations, we plan to re-release some of our most cherished films and franchises in cinemas starting with the Harry Potter Series and the ‘Lord of the Rings Trilogy with many more to come to serve our loyal fans.”

The ‘Harry Potter’ is a film series based on the eponymous novels by

J. K. Rowling. It consists of eight fantasy films, beginning with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and culminating with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2.

As per Kamal Gianchandani, Chief Business Planning & Strategy, PVR INOX Ltd: “These iconic films have captured the hearts and imagination of fans around the world, and we are excited to offer them a chance to relive the magic at our cinemas across the country.”

“We look forward to welcoming movie-goers of all ages to join us in this celebration of cinema and storytelling. I also congratulate Warner Bros for completing a stupendous 100 years of entertaining the world.”

The ‘Lord of the Rings’ is a series of three epic fantasy adventure films directed by Peter Jackson, based on the novel The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien. The films are subtitled ‘The Fellowship of the Ring’, ‘The Two Towers’ and ‘The Return of the King’. (IANS)

fuller longer. Research also has shown that complex carbohydrates, including oats, boost serotonin levels in your brain. That can help keep you calm.

Under the Weather?

Chicken soup really can help when you have a cold. It has an anti-inflammatory effect and can ease congestion. What if your stomach’s the problem?

You may have heard of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) that doctors recommend after vomiting or diarrhea. But did you know melons such as cantaloupe and honeydew can help with indigestion?

This common but uncomfortable feeling is linked to gas. Lactose intolerance, when you can’t easily digest the sugar in milk, is one cause, so try a switch to lactose-free dairy products to see if that helps. One small study found that eating a banana every day reduced discomfort for some women. Kiwi might also help. Researchers found that it eased symptoms and improved digestion in a few people with irritable bowel syndrome.

Before a Night Out

There’s solid science behind the age-old advice against drinking alcohol on an empty stomach. Food in your belly will help prevent irritation of your digestive system. It will also make your body absorb the alcohol more slowly. Highprotein foods such as cheese and tofu are good choices.

Hope to Conceive?

You may already know that you should get more folate if you plan to get pregnant. It’s an essential nutrient for a growing baby. It comes in leafy vegetables, peas, oranges, lemons, bananas, melons, and strawberries (or in a prenatal vitamin). Other foods in your diet may affect fertility, too. Some research suggests full-fat dairy, whole grains, and more protein from plant sources instead of animals can make a difference.

For Clearer Skin

You may have heard that greasy food or chocolate will make your skin break out. It’s not quite that simple, but nutrition can affect your complexion. Some studies suggest that a diet rich in low-glycemic foods can fight acne. Good choices include fresh vegetables, beans, and steel-cut oats.

Reviewed by Kathleen M. Zelman, RD, LD, MPH

on February 21,

Singer Shaan to make his acting debut with musical ‘Music School’

Bollywood singer Shaan is all set to step into the acting world with filmmaker Paparao Biyyala’s upcoming musical ‘Music School’.

Expressing his delight and gratitude, Shaan said:

“When I first began working on a song for ‘Music School’, I had no idea I would end up starring in it as well. When I was recording the song, the director of the film Paparao Biyyala felt I would be the perfect match for the character they were looking at and proposed the idea to cast me.”

He added: “I had an idea of the story as I was recording the song, but when Paparao sir narrated the script I was instantly on board. It was an extremely beautiful journey shooting for the film, we majorly shot in Goa and it added to the beauty and lively experience.

I am extremely thankful to Paparao sir for giving me this opportunity and making me a part of his passion project.”

Director Paparao Biyyala shared they were looking for a flamboyant, energetic and lively person for the character but had no luck in finding the perfect match.

“I then saw Shaan recording one of the songs from the film, he was so excited and happy, he was literally dancing while recording and I immediately felt we found our guy. Shaan is not just a brilliant singer but also an effortless actor and most importantly a wonderful person. His positive aura and charming attitude convinced me to cast him in Music School.”

Shaan has recorded an original song in the film that is set to be released this

week and he plays a pivotal role in the film which also stars Shriya Saran, Sharman Joshi as the lead along with an ensemble cast comprising respected and experienced senior actors as well as a bunch of talented newcomers as child artists.

‘Music School’ is a musical narration of the sensitive and prevailing concern of academic pressure subjected to young students by the society, parents and teachers. With 11 songs in the film, three of them have been recreated from ‘The Sound of Music’, situationally woven beautifully in the film to suit the sensibilities of the Indian audience.

(IANS)

Happy 100th Birthday

Nayang Kejong Chang (07th May 1923)

“And I will still be carrying you when you are old. Your hair will turn gray, and I will still carry you. I made you, and I will carry you to safety.” Isaiah

We wish you a long and happy life and many more years of happiness and love to come. Your incredible century of memories, experiences and achievements have been an inspiration to our family and friends.

Backstreet

life’ performance in Delhi

Boys deliver ‘larger than

Long queues, a wait of several hours and the humid weather all felt worth it to the fans of Backstreet Boys as the popular American band wrapped the India leg of their DNA World Tour with a exhilarating performance in the Delhi-NCR region. After a gig in Mumbai, the boy band kept their date with Delhi-NCR fans intact with a performance spanning two hours at the Airia Mall in Gurugram on Friday.

Fans from all age groups, including teenagers, those in their mid-20s and 30s, and even the elderly, gathered to witness the concert of the band that dominated the music scene with numerous global hits in the 1990s and early 2000s.

The performance was scheduled to start at 7.30 pm but was delayed by a couple minutes, leaving many desperate. Soon the stage came alive with a sound of thunder and flickering of strobe light.

The crowd erupted in joy as the giant screen at the back of the stage displayed the names of the

Rijiju launches trailer of first movie in Tagin language

Films are the biggest promoters of a culture or a place, Union minister Kiren Rijiju said after launching the trailer of the “first ever” movie in Tagin language of his home state Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday. He said the film “Love in 90s” will be tax free and that he will ask the state government to promote it through other means as well. The film looks at displaying the culture of the Tagin community before the whole country and the world, Rijiju said while urging people to watch it. Reminiscing about the 90s, the law minister said, “Life was very beautiful in those days. The young generation will enjoy the movie, but people from 90s who experienced love in those days will feel it.” He added that the National Institute of Film and Television coming up at Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh will promote the art and culture of the region.

(PTI)

American boy band wrapped the India leg of their DNA World Tour with an exhilarating performance in the Delhi-NCR region. iconic quintet, comprising Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson.

Backstreet Boys were indeed back!

The group, who last visited India in 2010, got down to business quickly, starting with “I Wanna Be With You” which left the crowd of over 12,000 exhilarated. The first set included the songs that made the group a household name in America, -- “The Call”, “Get Down (You’re The One For Me)” and “Don’t Want You Back”.

With their groovy and synchronised dance steps, the band proved age is just a number for them. On multiple occasions, the

quintet, dressed in all-black attire, would pause, only for the crowd to complete the lyrics. As the first set ended, Littrel addressed the Delhi-NCR crowd with a ‘namaste’.

“I know it is not our first time in Delhi and it won’t be the last,” the singer said. “It is because of each of you tonight that Backstreet Boys still exist.”

The singer promised a trip down the memory lane for the fans who have been following the group since it was formed in 1993.

What followed was the bevy of soothing and soulful tracks -- ranging from “Incomplete”, “More than that”, “Crazy for you”, “Alive” and “shape of my heart”. (PTI)

Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Jawan’ pushed to September 7

Fans of Shah Rukh Khan will have to wait till September 7 for the superstar’s second release of the year “Jawan”. Shah Rukh and producer of the actionentertainer Gauri Khan shared the new release date of the film on Instagram on Saturday. “Jawan” was earlier scheduled to premiere on June 2. The film marks Shah Rukh’s maiden project with filmmaker Atlee, known for directing blockbuster Tamil movies “Raja Rani”, “Their”, “Mersal” and “Bigil”. “Jawan”, a pan India release, promises to be a spectacular event film with high octane action sequences and talent assembled from across Indian cinema. It is produced by Shah Rukh’s production company Red Chil -

lies Entertainment. The movie also features South star Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi in pivotal roles. The film will be released in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. Shah Rukh was last seen in action blockbuster “Pathaan”, which crossed Rs 1000 crore mark at the global box office. He will also be seen in Rajkumar Hirani’s “Dunki”, scheduled to arrive in December.

(PTI)

Padmanabhan speaking during the event. (NP)

‘Harry Potter’, ‘LoTR’ movies to re-release on big screen in India

Urawa beats Al-Hilal to win Asian Champions League title

the face of goal. Al-Hilal goalkeeper Abdullah AlMayouf missed the ball, swirling in the wind, and it bounced off Carrillo and into the net.

Urawa continued to create chances on the counter-attack as Al-Hilal pushed forward. Tomoaki Okubo fired over with just the goalkeeper to beat and Atsuki Ito also went close.

SAITAMA (JAPAN),

MAY 6 (AP): Urawa Reds

beat Al-Hilal 1-0 on Saturday to win the Asian Champions League title for a third time. Andre Carrillo’s own goal gave the Japanese team a 2-1 aggregate win at Saitama Stadium a week after a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Riyadh. Defending champion Al-Hilal, which was looking for a record fifth continental title, enjoyed most of the possession but was unable to create enough clear chances in the absence of the influential Salem Al-Dawsari. The Saudi Arabia international scored in the first leg before receiving a red card and sus-

Premier League teams mark coronation of King Charles III

Like other teams with home games, Tottenham said players and officials would gather at the center of the field for a rendition of the national anthem — “God Save the King” — just before kickoff.

On Friday, Liverpool confirmed that it would also play the national anthem but acknowledged that “ some supporters have strong views on it.”

Men’s World Boxing C’ships: Sangwan, Nishant Dev advance to pre-quarters

TASHKENT (UZBEKISTAN), MAY 6 (IANS): Indian pugilists Akash Sangwan (67kg) and (71kg) advanced to the pre-quarterfinals stage with comfortable wins in the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships 2023 here on Saturday.

pension. The Saudi Arabian team started strongly and in the fourth minute, Urawa’s Danish defender Alexander Scholz cleared Odion Ighalo’s shot from the line. Also in the first half, Mohamed Kanno shot over and Carrillo forced a flying save from Urawa goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa. Urawa had little sight of goal but came close after 30 minutes when first-leg goalscorer Shinzo Koroki volleyed against the crossbar from close range. Three minutes after the restart, the majority of the 53,574 fans were brought to their feet. Norwegian defender Marius Hoibraten headed a free-kick across

Al-Hilal’s best chance came in the 90th minute. Ighalo turned and twisted in the area to create space for a shot near the penalty spot that Nishikawa was just able to block to ensure that the Reds hung on for the triumph.

“It was a tough game but the players did a great job to come through against a team like Al-Hilal,” Urawa coach Maciej Skorza said. Al-Hilal coach Ramon Diaz pointed to the club’s hectic schedule this year as a reason for the loss.

“We played better than in the first leg,” the Argentine said. “We didn’t have luck and there have been many physical demands on the players in this competition, in the league as well as the World Cup and the Club World Cup.”

Premier League clubs are asked to play the national anthem.

LONDON, MAY 6 (AP): Premier League clubs planned to mark the coronation of King Charles III by playing the national anthem before the start of Saturday’s games. In the morning, Chelsea women’s team striker Sam Kerr led the Australian delegation in the formal procession into Westminster Abbey. Kerr was her country’s flag-bearer as part of a group with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Tottenham was showing live coverage of the coronation on a big screen outside Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for fans with tickets to its home game against Crystal Palace.

It said the league had contacted clubs playing home games and “strongly suggested” they note the historic occasion.

Liverpool supporters booed the national anthem — which was formerly “God Save the Queen” — when it was played ahead of the FA Cup final a year ago and the Community Shield in July because of what is perceived to be a long-held opposition toward the establishment.

Queen Elizabeth II held the throne for seven decades until her death last September at the age of 96.

There were five Premier League games scheduled Saturday.

Kerr, Australia’s alltime top scorer, said Friday that it’s “an amazing honor” to be part of the delegation.

Messi apologizes to teammates and PSG for Saudi Arabia trip

PARIS, MAY 6 (IANS):

Lionel Messi has apologised to Paris Sain-Germain and his teammates for taking an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia which led to the Argentine international being suspended by the French capital club.

“First of all, I want to apologize to my teammates and the club,” the seventime Ballon d’Or winner said in a video clip posted on his Instagram on Friday, reports Xinhua.

“I honestly thought we were going to have the day off after the game, as had happened in the previous weeks.

“I had organized the trip to Saudi Arabia, which I had cancelled it previously. This time I couldn’t cancel it. I repeat I want to say sorry for what I did, and I’m waiting for what the club decides to do.”

Messi, who had

played in PSG’s 3-1 home defeat to Lorient in Ligue 1 on Sunday, wasn’t present at the team’s training session the following day as he travelled to Saudi Arabia to attend a commercial activi-

ty as a tourism ambassador. The World Cup winner was reportedly sanctioned by the PSG club for a suspension of two weeks with “no match, no training, and no salary.”

AIFF secretary general Shaji Prabhakaran elected AFC executive committee member

NEW DELHI, MAY 6

(PTI): AIFF secretary general Shaji Prabhakaran was on Saturday elected as an executive committee member of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) during the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Congress in Dhaka.

Prabhakaran, who was appointed as the AIFF

secretary general last year, made it to the AFC executive committee as a representative of the SAFF.

“On behalf of AIFF, I congratulate Dr Shaji Prabhakaran, Secretary General, for getting elected to the AFC Executive Committee today at the SAFF Congress,” AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey

said in a release. “I have no doubt that he will be an asset to the AFC Executive Committee, and the football fraternity across Asia will applause the decision of the SAFF congress with the election of him. I wish him good luck.”

Prabhakaran said he will work for the development of football in Asia.

PSG coach Christophe Galtier said earlier in the day that he will not “comment on it.”

“I was informed earlier this week by the management team from the club of the decision to suspend Leo,” the 56-yearold French coach told the press conference before Sunday’s Ligue 1 match. “Once I was informed of it, I made the decision not to comment on it.”

A two-week suspension means that Messi will miss his team’s away match against Troyes and the home clash with Ajaccio.

As for the remaining three Ligue 1 matches this season, it was not sure now whether Messi will represent the Qatari-owned club again since the relationship between the two sides was believed to have been broken after the controversial punishment.

“We’ll see when Leo comes back. There will be discussions with the entire club and Leo, who is the first concerned,” Galtier said.

Arriving in Paris as a free agent in 2021, the 35-year-old scored 31 goals and registered 34 assists in 71 games in all competitions for PSG and won the Ligue 1 title last season. But PSG’s failures in the UEFA Champions League have annoyed supporters, as Messi has been booed several times at the Parc des Princes by home fans over the past two seasons. His contract with the Ligue 1 giants expires after this season, with an “agreement in principle” to extend his stay for another year. However, neither club nor player now wants to activate the option and a divorce is inevitable.

Sangwan defeated Fu Mingke of China 5-0 in a Round of 32 match. The Indian boxer was quicker than Fu right from the start and landed some heavy blows on his opponent.

Akash played from a distance and evaded Fu’s punches throughout the bout, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) informed in a release on Saturday.

The last round saw a desperate attempt from the Chinese boxer to mount a comeback but Akash comfortably dealt with him and won 5-0 via unanimous decision.

He will take on Kazakhstan’s Dulat Bekbauov in the last-16 stage on Tuesday.

In a Light middleweight Round of 32 bout, Nishant Dev squared off against South Korea’s Lee Sangmin. The Indian boxer, who had defeated world

bronze medallist Sarkhan Aliyev of Azerbaijan in the previous round, showed his technical versatility on Saturday as he played the patience game in the first round and gauged the strategy of his opponent while landing enough punches to make a winning start.

The last two rounds saw both the pugilists exchange some heavy blows but Nishant Dev was the more accurate of the two boxers and secured a unanimous 5-0 win for India.

The southpaw will be up against Palestine’s Foqahaa Nidal in the prequarterfinal on Tuesday.

On Sunday, four Indians -- Deepak (51kg), Mohammad Hussamuddin (57kg), Sumit (75kg) and

Narender (92+ kg) will be in action.

Deepak will face Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist and 2021 World Champion Saken Bibossinov in the Round of 32 match-up whereas Hussamuddin will fight it out against Russia’s Savvin Eduard in the pre-quarterfinal.

Sumit will start his campaign in the Round of 32 bout against Russia’s Pavel Sosulin while Narender will square off against Arzola Lopez of Cuba in the last-16 stage. The ongoing tournament is witnessing the participation of 538 boxers, including several Olympic medallists, from 107 countries.

Amanda Anisimova announces indefinite break from tennis

NEW YORK, MAY 6 (AP): The WTA Tour says Amanda Anisimova plans to take an indefinite break from tennis, citing burnout and concerns for her mental health.

“I’ve really been struggling with my mental health and burnout since the summer of 2022,” the former world No. 21 American wrote on Instagram on Friday. “It’s become unbearable being at tennis tournaments. At this point, my priority is my mental well-being and taking a break for some time. I’ve worked as hard as I could to push through it. I will miss being out there, and I appreciate all the continuous support.”

Anisimova, now 21, reached the 2019 French Open semifinals after beat-

ing reigning champion Simona Halep at age 17 — the youngest woman to get that far at a major since 2006.

But later that year, just prior to the U.S. Open, her father and longtime coach Konstantin died at age 52 from a heart attack.

Anisimova reached the quarterfinals at Wimbledon a year ago, upsetting Coco Gauff. She twice

reached the fourth round of the Australian Open and beat defending champion Naomi Osaka at the 2022 event in Melbourne.

Anisimova, a winner of two WTA singles titles, gave no timetable for her return. Currently ranked No. 46, she lost in the first round of the Madrid Open last week to Arantxa Rus and was 3-8 in match results for the season.

Final round draw made for Sr. Women’s Ntl Football C’ship

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (IANS):

The final draw for the final round of the 27th Senior Women’s National Football Championship 2022-23, set to be played in Punjab, was held virtually on Saturday, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) said. Twelve teams were divided into two groups of six comprising hosts Punjab, direct seeds Railways, six group winners from the group stage and four best second-placed teams. The final round will start on June 14, 2023, with matches to be held in two venues in Amritsar

-- GNDU Sports Complex and Khalsa College. Amritsar also hosted Group I of the first round, which featured 30 teams divided into six groups and was played across six centralised venues including Haldwani, Margao, Bhilai, Mathura and Bengaluru. It began on March 25 and ended on April 9. Manipur are the record 21-time champions and have also won the previous three editions of the Senior Women’s National Football Championship, most recently edging Railways on penalties in the 2021-22 final in

Kerala. Hosts Punjab and defending champions and Group VI winners Manipur were directly placed in positions A1 and B1 in the draw, an AIFF media release said. Haryana (Group I), Maharashtra (Group II), Himachal Pradesh (Group III), Jharkhand (Group IV), and Tamil Nadu (Group V) were the other group winners. Chandigarh (Group II), Karnataka (Group VI), West Bengal (Group V) and Odisha (Group III) advanced to the final round as the four best second-placed teams. The groups

of the final round of the 27th Senior Women’s National Football Championship are as follows: Group A: Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Chandigarh, Odisha, Karnataka and Jharkhand. Group B: Manipur, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Railways, West Bengal and Haryana. Matches will be played in a single round-robin format, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the semifinals. The final will be played on June 28 at the GNDU Sports Complex in Amritsar.

Cambodia hosts SEA Games for first time in 64 years

PHNOM PENH, MAY 6

(IANS): Cambodia hosted the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games for the first time in 64 years, expressing confidence that the biennial multi-sport event would give a boost to the tourism industry in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era.

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo

Hun Sen presided over the opening ceremony of the 32nd edition of the SEA Games on Friday evening at the 60,000-seater Morodok Techo National Stadium in Phnom Penh, reports Xinhua.

With the motto of “Sport: Live in Peace”, the games brought together a total of 10,890 athletes, coaches, arbitrators, and delegates from the 10 member states - Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philip -

pines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam.

The two-hour opening ceremony included a sound and light show featuring the history of Cambodia, the parade of athletes, athlete’s and arbitrator’s oath, speeches, games torch lighting ceremony, and fireworks.

In his brief remarks to the event, Hun Sen said sports live in peace and that peace is for all, and all is for peace.

“On behalf of His Majesty the King of Cambodia, the royal government and myself, I declare the 32nd SEA Games open from now on,” Hun Sen announced.

According to the Cambodia SEA Games Organising Committee (CAMSOC), the games will see athletes competing in 579 events across 36 sports, including football, athletics, gymnastics, swimming, badminton, and golf, as well as two Cambodian

ancient martial arts, namely Kun Bokator and Kun Khmer.

Running until May 17, the games are free for all as Cambodia covers the expenses of food and accommodation for all foreign athletes, coaches and delegates, provides free tickets for all spectators, and grants free live broadcast rights to local and foreign TV networks.

Cambodian Tourism Minister and CAMSOC Permanent Vice-Chairman Thong Khon said the moves were “unprecedented” in the history of SEA Games and would benefit the kingdom’s economy for the long term. “The games will not only promote sport s, but also boost Cambodia’s tourism in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era,” he said in a pre-games press conference.

He expected that Cam-

bodia will attract more than four million international tourists after receiving some 1.2 million foreign visitors in the first quarter of this year.

Khon, who is also president of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia, was confident that Cambodia will gain multiple medals in the games because about 40 percent of the country’s athletes had been sent to train and compete abroad ahead of the games.

Cambodia won nine gold, 13 silver and 41 bronze medals in the 31st SEA Games in Vietnam.

Cambodian Defense Minister and CAMSOC Chairman Gen. Tea Banh said the kingdom planned to spend 118 million U.S. dollars for hosting the games, saying that the figure did not include the cost of the China-aided Morodok Techo National Stadium.

Players of Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds celebrate their victory at Saitama Stadium in Saitama, near Tokyo.

‘Vilasier Khate and Abhishek Gaur were placed runners up in the Men’s Doubles at the AITA 1L Championship held at Jaipur from May 1 to 5,2023.’

Akash Sangwan Nishant Dev

Messi with his family in Saudi Arabia.

Amanda Anisimova

Salt keeps Delhi Capitals alive in IPL

NEW DELHI, MAY 6

(PTI): Phil Salt came up with an outrageous display of ball striking as Delhi Capitals kept themselves alive in the Indian Premier League with a thumping seven-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bangalore here on Saturday.

Virat Kohli (55 off 56) completed his ‘homecoming’ with a landmark fifty before Mahipal Lomror (54 not out off 29) came up with a career-best knock to take Royal Challengers Bangalore to 181 for four.

Needing to win every game from here on to have a shot at a play-off berth, Delhi’s overseas batters played fearlessly to gun down the total in 16.4 overs.

Besides Salt’s sensational 87 off 45 balls, David Warner (22 off 14), Mitchell Marsh (26 off 17) and Rilee Rossouw (29 not out off 21) produced timely cameos.

It was Delhi’s second consecutive win and they need to win their remaining four games while RCB suffered their fifth loss in 10 matches. Salt and Warner came out all guns blazing as Delhi raced to 60 for no loss in five overs. The fifth over

in which Mohammad Siraj conceded 19 runs gave Delhi the initial advantage and RCB could not fight back from there.

The premier India fast bowler could have avoided a heated exchange with Salt after the latter smashed him for couple of sixes and a four.

The flat six over extra cover off Siraj stood out in Salt’s special innings.

Delhi’s performance also highlighted their dependance on the foreign players with the Indian batters under-performing.

Earlier, Kohli mania swept the Feroz Shah Kotla as Delhi fans, on another day, were seen wearing the

Rohit’s bad patch continues

as CSK break

off for his first boundary.

Among the highlights of Kohli’s innings was a pull and inside out shot he played off his Delhi mate Ishant Sharma.

Delhi Capitals were able to keep the high profile openers quiet till the fourth over.

‘Chepauk jinx’ against MI after 13 years

CHENNAI, MAY

6

RCB jersey of their favourite player. The star batter ensured they did not return home disappointed with a 55 off 46 balls, his sixth half century of the season, before Lomror played some breathtaking shots on way to his highest score in the IPL.

Kohli also became the first player to amass 7000 runs in the tournament history. Both Kohli and Faf du Plessis (45 off 32), who have done the bulk of the scoring for RCB this season, took their time to get going in the powerplay.

Khaleel Ahmed bowled one short and wide in the opening over and Kohli was happy to put it past David Warner at mid

Mokokchung Friday League kicks off

Du Plessis, who hardly got balls in the first three overs, stepped out to Mukesh Kumar for a straight hit before unleashing a forehand. What followed was a mishit off a short ball, resulting in the third boundary of the over.

The sixth over from Khaleel was even more productive for RCB as du Plessis played an expansive straight drive off a full toss for the first six of the game. The two overs gave RCB a much needed move as they reached for 51 for no loss in the powerplay.

Brief scores:

Royal Challengers

Bangalore 181/4 in 20 overs (Virat Kohli 55, Mahipal Lomror 54; Mitchell Marsh 2-21) lost to Delhi Capitals 187/3 in 16.4 Overs (Philip Salt 87, Rilee Rossouw 35; Josh Hazlewood 1-29) by 7 wickets.

MOKOKCHUNG, MAY

6 (NPN): The 3rd season of 35+ Mokokchung Friday League(MFL) kicked off with 6 teams on Saturday at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex, by Proprietor of Anuradha Hardware, Mohan as the guest match patron.

Delivering a short note on MFL 3rd season, Dr. Lanu Walling stated that MFL was a ‘fun

league’ where football lovers converge to meet and befriend strangers.

He said that the league belongs to no one and that the management is a concerted efforts of all the players and well-wishers. He therefore called all participants to collectively own the league.

Dr Lanu further added that MFL was for a time of fitness and role models

for the younger generation in the field of football.

Earlier, a minute of silence was maintained for ‘peace & tranquillity’, in Manipur.

The opening function was chaired by Zulumanen and the invocation said by Acha while a song was presented by Temsusangla. Oath taking was administered by the MFL convenor, Imcharen.

JINJU (KOREA), MAY 6

(PTI): Indian weightlifter

Bindyarani Devi was quick to make amends after an underwhelming performance in snatch section as she clinched an overall silver in the women’s 55kg competition at the Asian Championships here on Saturday.

The Commonwealth Games silver medallist had a total effort of 194kg (83kg+111kg), as she opened India’s medal tally in this edition of the championship.

Bindyarani also won the silver in the clean and jerk section. She was, however, competing in a nonOlympic weight category.

“I’m happy with my performance today. I had injured my left knee before the trials. Once that was okay I had issues with my right one so my training was affected and I couldn’t give my bes t,” she told PTI.

Expect mahapanchayat to be successful: wrestlers

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): The protesting wrestling are hoping that the khap mahapanchayat scheduled at Jantar Mantar on Sunday will be of huge success and will help in getting more support for them in their fight against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Top wrestlers of the country, including Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat, are protesting for the last two weeks at the Jantar Mantar here, demanding the sacking of Brij Bhushan as WFI chief and his arrest because of the alleged sexual harassment of women grapplers.

“Today is the 14th day of our sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar. The fact is you guys (supporters) are here

and we are here too. We would like to thank all who are sitting with us here and supporting us. We would like to thank the entire country for standing with us in this fight for justice,” said Vinesh on Saturday.

“We hope we will achieve success in this fight so that truth prevails.”

Vinesh urged the supporters to be peaceful on Sunday so that bad elements do not hijack the protest.

“Tomorrow, a lot of people are expected to join us from villages... khap panchayats, kisan and mazdoor unions, student organisations to support us. We appeal to everyone to be peaceful. Our success depends on a peaceful demonstration. We also request all who will come

speak with the media

tomorrow to cooperate with authorities and police,” said the Asian Games gold medallist.

“We also request the police not to stop our supporters tomorrow.”

Bajrang, an Olympic medallist, has appealed to the countrymen to observe a candlelight march on Sunday to show solidarity with the protesting grapplers.

“We request all Indians to come out with a candlelight march at 7 pm on May 7,” he said.

Another Olympic medallist wrestler Sakshi Malik said they are yet to decide the future course of action as their lawyers are still working on it.

She said the decision to approach a lower court as directed by the Supreme

(PTI):

Rohit Sharma’s barren run with willow continued as Chennai Super Kings broke a 13-year-old home jinx against Mumbai Indians with an easy sixwicket victory in an IPL match, here on Saturday. The Indian skipper’s horrid run in IPL since last edition continued as he failed to trouble the scorer for the second match in succession with MI scoring a below par 139 for 8 against an inspired performance from the CSK pace and seam troika of Deepak Chahar (2/18 in 4 overs), Man of the match Matheesha Pathirana (3/15 in 4 overs) and Tushar Deshpande (2/25 in 4 overs).

The chase was a cakewalk as Devon Conway (44 off 42 balls) played the role of anchor to perfection after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s whirlwind 16-ball-30. The win was completed in 17.5 overs and CSK leapfrogged to second place behind Gujarat Titans in the points table. Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni scored the winning runs much to the delight of the adoring

crowd at Chepauk. The last time CSK won against MI at Chepauk was in 2010, even before India had won the ODI World Cup under Dhoni. For MI, it was a bad loss as they stay in sixth place with 10 points from as many games and very little margin for error after this match. But what will certainly both MI is their skipper’s prolonged lean patch as 184 runs from 10 games with five scores of less than 10 and only two scores above 40 will set some panic in the ranks. Not to forget, coming down the batting order at No. 3 didn’t

work as an indiscreet lapscoop off Deepak Chahar didn’t work at all for the skipper.

But no amount of praise will be enough for Pathirana, who literally bottled the MI batters during the death overs as he didn’t concede a single boundary in his four-over spell. In the MI innings, a maiden half-century in IPL by left-handed batter Nehal Wadhera (64, 51 balls, 8x4, 1x6) and his half-century partnerships with Suryakumar Yadav (26) and Tristan Stubbs (20) helped salvage things for MI, which lost three wickets by the third over and reach 139 for 8.

After opting to bowl, CSK bowlers left MI in disarray, reducing the opposition to 16 for 3 by the end of the third over.

Chahar picked up the wickets of Ishan Kishan (7, 9 balls, 1x4) and MI skipper Rohit Sharma (0, 3 balls) while Tushar Deshpande provided the first breakthrough by removing the dangerous Cameron Green, getting him bowled for 6 (4 balls, 1 four).

MI lost three wickets in space of 7 deliveries whilst scoring only 1 run and looked in deep trouble before Surya (26, 22 balls, 3x4) and Wadhera began the rescue act. Surya and Wadhera added 55 runs in 7 overs and began to look more assured in the middle before Ravindra Jadeja fired a quicker one to dismiss the former.

Surya, who regained form in the previous game against Punjab Kings, held the key for MI after the early setbacks, and he looked to be guiding the team towards safety when Jadeja’s faster one got the better of him.

Bindyarani Devi wins silver at Asian C’ships

Vietnam’s Vo Thi Quynh Nhu 192kg (88kg+104kg) bagged the bronze in a depleted field.

The top lifters in 55kg have either bulked up or moved down weight classes in order to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics next year.

to an injury she sustained ahead of the selection trials.

She had moved to the 59kg weight class, that features in the Paris Olympics, during last year’s World Championships where she finished 25th.

“But today thanks to god my body was feeling good before the competition,” she added. The Manipuri, who hasn’t been able to speak to her family back home due to the ongoing ethnic violence in the state, had two failed lifts -- one each in snatch, and clean jerk. But a gold medal would have been out of her grasp even if she had completed those two lifts.

Chen Guan Ling of Chinese Taipei won the gold with a 204kg (90kg+114kg) effort while

Bindyarani started off nicely, executing her first two snatch attempts of 80kg and 83kg with relative ease but her 85kg try was deemed a no lift. Her personal best in snatch is 86kg. Placed fourth after the snatch event, the Manipuri covered ground by lifting the second highest weight in clean and jerk. She, then, unsuccessfully, tried to improve her total with a 115kg lift. She had lifted 116kg at the Birmingham CWG last year.

The Manipuri was forced to switch back to her original 55kg weight division for this event due

Her performance here was not her best but head coach Vijay Sharma had said before the tournament that the aim was to make Bindyarani just participate in the event, which is one of the qualifiers of the Paris Olympics, and peak during the Asian Games later this year.

“Before the injury, I had improved my personal best but the injury affected my training and we wanted to take it easy. At the Asian Games, I will win gold for sure,” Bindyarani said.

Under the 2024 Olympic qualification rule, a lifter has to compulsorily compete in the 2023 World Championships and the

2024 World Cup. Apart from the two above, a lifter also has to participate in three among the following additional events -- the 2022 World Championships, the 2023 Continental Championships, the 2023 Grand Prix 1, the 2023 Grand Prix II and the 2024 Continental Championships. Having competed here and in last year’s World Championships, both Mirabai Chanu and Bindyarani now need to take part in one other additional event, apart from the two compulsory ones. The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) will publish the Olympic Qualification Rating (OQR) of each weight category at the end of the qualification period. A weightlifter’s best three performances at the qualifying events will be taken into account for final assessment.

Court can be taken only after the Delhi Police expedites the inquiry and records statements of all the complainants.

“We have discussed with our lawyers. Our statements are yet to be recorded, we have been waiting for that. The police has been given a deadline to complete recording of statements within a time frame. Once the statement is recorded, only then the case can proceed further. We request the police to record our statements as soon as possible,” she said.

Asked whether Sports Minister Anurag Thakur had approached them, she said: There is no approach from his side. He already knows our demands, so it doesn’t make sense to meet him again. If he wants to talk to us, we will definitely talk.”

Bajrang said, the two committees formed on Saturday have the full authority to decide their future course of action.

The wrestlers had on Friday formed two committees to advice them on the future course of action in their fight against Brij Bhushan.

“We have formed two committees and whatever they decide we will abide by that. The entire framework of the protest will be decided by the committee.”

Alcaraz celebrates his B-day with Madrid Open ticket

Chopra defends title with 88. 67m in Diamond League

DOHA, MAY 6 (PTI):

Neeraj Chopra began his Diamond League title defence with a win in the first leg but the Olympic champion javelin thrower said he will push himself more in the upcoming competitions this season.

MADRID, MAY 6

(IANS): Local favorite Carlos Alcaraz celebrated his 20th birthday on Friday by booking his place in the final of the ATP Madrid Open. The top seed in Madrid defeated 17th seed Borna Coric 6-4, 6-3 in an hour and 40 minutes, reports Xinhua. Alcaraz dominated on his serve, with Coric only able to break him once, while the Spaniard was able to break the Croatian’s serve four times during the match in front of a partisan crowd in Madrid.

It’s the third time Alcaraz has celebrated his birthday while playing in Madrid. “It’s incredible to celebrate my birthday in front of everyone. And to enjoy my 20th birthday this way. I had my 18th birthday playing Rafa (Nadal), my 19th beating (Cameron) Norrie and now I’m celebrating mt 20th birthday by getting to the final. Every year is very special,” he said after his match.

Chopra, who had bagged the 2022 Diamond League final trophy last year, won the season-opening first round with a best throw of 88.67m to beat a star-studded field at the Qatar Sports Club on Friday night.

“It was a very hard win, but I’m happy, it’s a really good start for me,” Chopra said.

“This season I’ll stay fit and consistent and I’ll try to do my best in next competitions. I plan to stay fit and do more than I can,” added Chopra, who has his eyes set on breaching the coveted 90m mark.

Chopra will feature in the Ostrava Golden Spike event in Czech Republic, a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold level meet, on June 27, according to the world body.

Chopra’s current training base is at Antalya, Turkey.

“I hope to come in the first place in the next competitions and to keep consistency during this season,”

the Indian superstar said.

Chopra’s best throw came in his first try which is his fourth best effort. The Olympic champion had ample support as his compatriots came out to cheer him.

“Lot of people came to support me and they are really happy. Sometimes it’s really hard because we have a big country and people have hopes, and now more athletes from my country join me in the Diamond league and other competitions.

“I’m lucky people have faith in me, I feel really good. This Doha meeting is great, the first one every year,” he added.

Despite a quality field that included the likes of reigning world champion

Anderson Peters of Grenada and Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Jakub Vadlejch of Czech Republic, the throws were quite underwhelming compared to last year when both Peters and Vadlejch sent the spear beyond 90m.

Chopra had even acknowledged the reputation of Doha giving 90m-plus throws during the pre-event press conference on Thursday. But strong headwind on Friday made it challenging for the javellin to go the distance.

“It was challenging for all athletes, but I’m still satisfied with my result. It’s a great atmosphere. Today was challenging, next time I’ll do more throws,” Chopra said.

The guest match patron Mohan along with organizers and players of the 1st match, Revenant FC & New Ecclesia F C.

Bindyarani Devi

Neeraj Chopra

Carlos Alcaraz

Wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik

during their protest at Jantar Mantar, in New Delhi. (PTI)

Axar Patel and Rilee Rossouw after the IPL 2023 cricket match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. (PTI)

Chennai Super Kings players celebrate the wicket of Mumbai Indians batter Ishan Kishan. (PTI)