August 11, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXX No. 246

DIMAPUR, TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00

SL new Parl session to commence on Aug 20 international, Page 7

Follow us on @Nagaland_Post

State records highest singleday spike of 230 COVID cases a spike of 104 cases each while 18 cases were reACTIVE CASES ported from Mon and 4 in AsympRecovMiTotal Symptomatic District Death Zunheboto. tomatic ered grated Cases Mild Moderate As on August 10, the Dimapur 1251 1 2 338 1602 8* 2 state’s tally stood at 3011 Kiphire 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 cases-- 2027 active, 973 Kohima 0 0 178 700 521 0 1 recovered, 8 deaths and 3 migrated. As per the severLongleng 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 ity of symptoms, 2024 cases Mokokchung 0 0 13 18 5 0 0 are asymptomatic, 1 mild Mon 0 0 97 258 161 0 0 and 2 moderate.

Peren 0 0 249 264 15 0 0 According to Health Phek 0 0 28 31 3 0 0 department’s data (positive Tuensang 0 0 45 46 1 0 0 cases by domicile district Wokha 0 0 8 16 8 0 0 as on August 10, 2020), Zunheboto 0 0 14 73 59 0 0 Dimapur district remained Total 1 2 973 3011 2024 8 3 on the top with 1500 cases, *1 death is Covid-19 positive but not due to Covid-19 followed by Kohima- 628, details of COVID-19 cases detected on Aug 10, 2020 Peren- 343, Mon- 283, Zunheboto- 75, TuensangReturnees Armed Traced Frontline 51, Phek- 32, Wokha- 26, District Inbound Others* Total Forces contacts workers travelers Mokokchung- 18, LonDimapur 72 17 14 1 0 104 gleng- 5, Kiphire- 4 and Kohima 52 5 46 1 0 104 others- 46.

Peren 4 0 0 0 0 4 Further, out of the Mon 18 0 0 0 0 18 3011 positive cases, the Total distribution across various 146 22 60 2 0 230 (10th August) categories of people are: Total (Cumulative) 1372 1094 293 198 54 3011 1,372 cases were from the Percentage 45.57% 36.33% 9.73% 6.58% 1.79% 100% Armed Forces, 1,094 cases *Others include cases related to NLA, Raj Bhavan, patients excluding returnees from Returnees, 198 cases D I M A P U R , AU G 1 0 tally zoomed past the 3000- from Frontline Workers, (NPN): With the highest mark on Monday.

293 cases of Traced Consingle-day spike of 230 fresh Out of 230 new cases, tacts and 54 cases are of COVID cases, Nagaland’s Dimapur and Kohima saw Others.

COVID-19 STATUS AS ON august 10, 2020

Total lockdown lifted in Mon D I M A P U R , AU G 1 0 (NPN): The deputy commissioner (DC) Mon, Thavaseelan K, has lifted the total lockdown under Mon district and Mon Sadar subdivision with effect from August 10, 2020.

DC Mon has, however, issued guidelines that would remain in force in the whole of Mon district till further orders. DC cautioned that any person found violating measures would be liable to be prosecuted against as per the law.

Lockdown extended in Aboi, Tizit, Phomching: DC Mon has extended total lockdown in Aboi (August 11-17), Tizit (August 10-11) and Phomching (August 10-12). DC has ordered that public movement would remain strictly prohibited except on medical emergencies. All business/commercial establishments, shops would remain closed except pharmacies. Movement of private vehicles except those permitted has also been banned.

All social, cultural, religious and academic gathering would be banned.

Not more than 20 people would be permitted in case of funerals. No movement will be permitted in or out of Aboi town, Tizit sub-division and Phomching sub-division.

3-member panel to address Sachin Pilot’s grievances

NEW DELHI, AUG 10 (PTI): Sachin Pilot will work in the “interest of the Congress”, and a threemember committee will be set up to address the grievances of Pilot and other aggrieved MLAs, the Congress said on Monday after a meeting between the rebel leader and former party chief Rahul Gandhi, signalling a “amicable resolution” of nearly a month-long Rajasthan crisis ahead of the crucial assembly session from August 14.

The meeting between Rahul and Pilot at the former party chief ’s residence, where Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was also present, lasted two hours during which they had a “frank, open and conclusive” discussion.

While the Congress did

Sachin leaves after meeting Priyanka Gandhi on Monday. (PTI)

not give details of what transpired in Rahul-Pilot meeting, AICC general secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal said in a statement that following the meeting, Sonia Gandhi has decided that AICC will constitute a threemember committee to “address the issues raised by Pilot and the aggrieved MLAs and arrive at an appropriate resolution thereof ”.

“Shri Sachin Pilot has committed to working in the interest of the Congress party and the Congress government in Rajasthan,” it added.

Biren-led govt in Manipur wins trust vote

sports, Page 8

GoI officials, NSCN (I-M) leaders hold meeting in Delhi

Correspondent

Spl. Correspondent

IMPHAL, AUG 10: BJP-led N Biren Singh government in Manipur won trust vote 2816 in the Legislative Assembly on Monday. The motion seeking vote of confidence, moved by the chief minister N Biren Singh, was passed by voice vote even though opposition Congress strongly demanded division vote.

Uproar was witnessed when opposition members rose up against the Speaker Y Khemchand, who ruled to pass the vote of confidence on voice vote. During the discussion on trust vote, 28 members of the ruling parties including Speaker and 16 members of the opposition were in the house against the effective strength of 53.

The 60-member house has an effective strength of 53. Out of 21 MLAs belonging of BJP, three had resigned. Although 28 Congress MLAs were elected in the last election, five had been disqualified which reduced their strength to 24.

The ruling coalition has 29 MLAs-- 18 from BJP, 4 from NPP, 4 from NPF, one Independent, one each from LJP and from AITC.

NEW DELHI, AUG 10 (NPN): Senior Government of India (GoI) officials and NSCN (I-M) leaders on Monday held an “informal meeting” in the national capital, Delhi.

Government of India was represented by senior officials from the Intelligence Bureau-- additional director, A.K. Mishra and joint director (North East), M.S. Tully and NSCN (I-M) delegation led by Th. Muivah, general secretary and chief negotiator of the group.

Highly placed sources informed that Nagaland Governor and Centre’s Interlocutor for Naga peace talks, R.N. Ravi is also scheduled to meet the NSCN (I-M) delegation. Ravi arrived Delhi on Monday and is scheduled to meet the NSCN (I-M) leaders.

As reported earlier, highly placed sources informed Nagaland Post that the negotiating parties were likely to hold the meeting after August 15 (Independence Day celebration).

On his part, Pilot said, “we raised issues of principles before the Congress leadership, and welcome their assurance of a timebound redressal of our grievances.”

Asserting that he doesn’t crave for any post and that the party can take back the position given to him, Pilot said, “some personal remarks have been made against me. I feel there is no place for personal mudslinging in politics”, in an apparent reference to Gehlot’s ‘’nikamma” remarks against him.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said, “the political crisis in Rajasthan Congress stands resolved amicably by the intervention of none other than Rahul Gandhi himself.”

However, Congress sources ruled out that Ashok Gehlot will be replaced as Rajasthan chief minister or Pilot will be reinstated as party’s Rajasthan chief.

A prayer being held before the meeting between Government of India officials and NSCN (I-M) delegation in Delhi, Monday.

Sources also said that some significant development can be expected by September.

Meanwhile, it may be mentioned that Assam Finance minister and convenor of North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) in a tweet on August 5 stated, “...I received a call from Hon HM Sri @AmitShah to discuss about issues pertaining to enduring peace in #NorthEast. Despite being in hospital his commitment to work is unwavering. This sets a benchmark for us all. India is proud to have you as Home Minister Sir. Admiration!”

It may also be pertinent to note that Nagaland

chief minister Neiphiu Rio and Himanta Sarma had also met in Delhi last week.

It was not known what was discussed at the meeting, however, the meeting assumes significance against the backdrop of Sarma’s tweet.

It may be recalled that Th. Muivah, accompanied by his wife and others, left for Delhi by a chartered flight on July 20.

A 5-member NSCN (I-M) delegation left for Delhi via Guwahati on August 6 and later another 9-member delegation of senior NSCN (I-M) leaders left for Delhi from Dimapur on August 7 by a chartered flight.

HC to hear case on Sept 8 +ve, undergoes brain surgery

DIMAPUR, AUG 10 (NPN): The Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench of on Monday fixed September 8 as the next date for hearing the disqualification petition against seven NPF legislators.

After Monday’s hearing, a two-bench judge of Justice Songkhupchung Serto and Justice Hukato Swu also ordered that records of the disqualification case be called from the office of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly speaker’s office.

Counsel for the petitioners- Chotisuh Sazo and L. Imkong Imchen (NPF MLAs)-informed the Court that its July 23 order to serve notices to the seven MLAs was not possible due to pandemic and also because the counsel for the respondents refused to accept the notice.

Considering the facts and circumstances submitted by the learned counsel of the petitioners and keeping in view the fact that NLA was scheduled to sit on August 13, the court directed that notice to the respondent be served through the office of NLA commissioner & secretary. Therefore, the order stated that appropriate order may be passed to serve the notice to the respondents through the office of the NLA speaker.

The court also ordered that the registry should take steps to reach the notice and copies of the petition to NLA commissioner & secretary’s office on or before August 13.

At Monday’s hearing, only the counsel for the Speaker NLA appeared while none appeared on behalf of the seven NPF MLAs.

Frontline worker stigmatised even in death

Paiwang along with officials at the burial site on Monday. (NP)

Correspondent

K Y M C

NEW DELHI, AUG 10 (PTI): India’s Coronavirus tally crossed the 22 lakh mark on Monday with 62,064 new cases, while the recoveries surged to over 15.35 lakh, the Health Ministry said.

The death toll from the pathogen climbed to 44,386 with 1,007 more fatalities, according to the ministry.

There are 6,34,945 active cases of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The total coronavirus cases now stands at 22,15,074, it said.

However, according to a PTI tally, compiling the data provided by various state governments, the total cases stood at 22,61,541 and the death toll at 45,202.

I nd ia ’s C OV I D - 19 cases have jumped from 10 lakh to 22 lakh in 24 days, an analysis of the Health Ministry data showed on Monday.

nagalandpostofficial

Sachin back in Cong ends feud with Gehlot NPF disqualification issue: Pranab, who tested COVID

This is it!

“Yes Sir, the file of your rival is here. Once you give the go ahead, we’ll raid his place.”

India COVID tally surges past 22L-mark

Ferro wins Palermo Ladies Open

nagalandpostofficial

KOHIMA, AUG 10 (NPN): Revealing that stigmatisation is the worst enemy of humanity, a frontline worker and personnel of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) in Mon who died in his sleep on August 9 was denied even a decent burial by some locals in his native village. The local people feared the spread of

virus in the locality despite repeated appeals by the State government against stigmatisation.

According to reports, the deceased SDRF personnel, K. Changke Konyak had first tested positive for COVID-19 on July 26 and then sent to a COVID Care Centre as he was asymptomatic. Later, on July 31, the second COVID-19 test for late Changke was negative.

An official of the Empowered Group, Mon told Nagaland Post that on learning of the death of the SDRF personnel, the house owner where late Changke lived with his family, refused to allow the body to be brought into to the house.

It was reported that even the deceased’s wife and other family members were not allowed to move out of their home.

The official also said family members of the deceased were also warned not to return home if they went to see the body. Due to such stigmatisation, no one went take the body for burial.

The official also said since the District Task Force was asked to take charge of the body, members of the task force, Empowered Committee, Konyak Baptist Church Mon and Konyak Baptist Bumeinok Bangjum and a few civil society groups

conducted a brief funeral service after which the body was buried. The body of late Changke was buried at the Mon Town Committee graveyard on August 9.

The official also expressed sadness that none of the deceased’s family were able to attend the funeral.

Meanwhile, transport, civil aviation & railways and land resources minister P Paiwang Konyak and members of DTF, Empowered Group, Konyak Union, churches, additional director general and all rank and file of the home guard & civil defence department mourned the demise of the SDF personnel.

Paiwang in his message said that the Konyak community would remain thankful and cherish the service rendered by Changke to the community. The minister also donated Rs 50,000 to the family members from his personal end.

NEW DELHI, tested positive for AU G 1 0 ( P T I ) : COVID19 today. I Former President request the people Pranab Mukherjee who came in contact on Monday underwith me in the last went a brain surgery week, to please self at a military hospital isolate and get tested here, and he tested for COVID-19.” positive for COVIDFollowing his 19 prior to the procetweet, wishes for dure, sources at the an early recovery Pranab Mukherjee (File) poured in on Twitter hospital said.

The surgery was from a large number carried out at the Army’s Re- of people including leaders from search and Referral (R&R) hos- across the political spectrum. pital for removal of a clot in his President Ram Nath brain, they told PTI. Mukherjee Kovind spoke to Mukherjee’s is critical and is on ventilator daughter Sharmistha and insupport, the sources said. quired about his health, the At the same time, they Rashtrapati Bhavan tweeted. said his vital parameters are “We wish former President stable and that the surgery was Pranab Mukherjee a speedy successful. A multidisciplinary recovery from Covid,” Congress team doctors is constantly moni- said on Twitter. toring the health of 84-year-old Defence Minister Rajnath Mukherjee.

Singh visited the R&R Hospital In the afternoon, the for- and enquired about the former mer President had tweeted: president’s health. Singh was “On a visit to the hospital for at the hospital for around 20 a separate procedure, I have minutes.

DoSE to provide study One-day Assembly materials in pen drives session on Aug 13 Classes

Total Dura- Capacity of Cost of 1 Pen tion of Videos Pen Drive (Rs.) (Hours) Drive (GB)

5/6/7 separately for 10 per class 16 per class each class 5,6,& 7 Together 30 64 8/9 separately for each 23.3 per class 32 per class class 10 35 64 11 (Arts, Sc., Com.) separately for each 6 16 class 11 (Arts, Sc., Com.) 18 32 Together 12 (Arts) 21.6 32 12 (Science) 22.2 32 12 (Commerce) 7 16

D I M A P U R , AU G 1 0 (NPN): Department of School Education (DoSE) has notified that class-wise video lessons broadcasted through Doordarshan, YouTube and Facebook from May 1 to July 30, would be made available in pen drives at certain rates. (See table) DoSE informed that interested private schools,

350 850 480 850 350 480 480 480 350

parents and students could place the order by paying the mentioned cost through the “Order Products” link given in the Department’s online education portal https:/ dosenl.in from August 7-16.

The pen drives would bee issued to government schools. It was, however, informed that delivery could be delayed.

Correspondent

KO H I M A , AU G 1 0 (NPN): Sixth Session of the 13th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) would be held on August 13, 2020.

Earlier, the one-day assembly session slated for July 30 was postponed after some of the legislators, security personnel, drivers and staff attached to the legislators besides NLA staff tested positive for COVID-19.

NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer told Nagaland Post that as of now there was no change of plan and assembly would be held as scheduled.

He informed that all arrangements have been put in place in accordance with the SOPs and protocols. The Speaker said that assembly bulletin would be issued on August 11, 2020.

K Y M C

state

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is the government qualified to formulate a National education policy?

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

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

A

B

C

33% 67% 0%

Next poll

Q: I s c o n t a c t t r a c i n g

for COVID-19 a successful strategy of containment?

 Yes  No  Can’t Say

WEATHER FORECAST august 11

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala A thunderstorm in spots

31 25

Cloudy; a strong t-storm in spots 27 21

Guwahati A stray t-storm; not as warm Imphal

Cloudy with a stray t-storm

Itanagar A morning t-storm; cloudy

28 25 28 22 28 23

Shillong

A thunderstorm in spots

23 19

Kohima

Thunderstorm

24 19

Dimapur A t-storm around in the a.m

30 24

A thunderstorm in spots

26 20

Tuensang Cloudy a t-storm in spots

19 16

Not as warm

25 21

Mkg Wokha

New office of ADS Dimapur inaugurated

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

Aizawl

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2020

Zunheboto Cloudy with a thunderstorm

23 18

Director Food and Civil Supply, Asangla Imti along with department officials after unveiling the plaque of the ADS office Dimapur on August 10. (DIPR) DIMAPUR: Advisor of Food and Civil Supplies, Pukhayi Sumi virtually inaugurated the new office building of assistant director of Supply at Dimapur on August 10.

According to DIPR report, in his virtual speech which was projected on a screen, Phukayi congratulated the director Food and Civil Supply Nagaland, Asangla Imti and her team, engineering wing, contractor, ADS Dimapur and all involved for successful completion of the office building with quality workmanship within the timeframe.

Further, Phukayi extended appreciation and complimented the depart-

mental officers, staff, field officers, workers for successful completion of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) phase 1, Atma Nirbhar Bharat (ANB) in all districts besides the regular schemes. “In this time of uncertainity, where our lives are insecure and at stake, the department has done exemplary/commendable job of ensuring availability of foodgrains all over the state, without interrupting supply chain despite facing hurdles and challenges and practical constraints”, the advisor maintained.

Reminding that service to man was service to God, Phukayi appealed to all the

officers, staff, fieldworkers and stakeholders for keeping up the noble work while implementing PMGKAY II and the other regular schemes. He also advised them to follow the 3 golden rules ie social distancing, hand hygiene and wearing mask as a preventive measure to stay away from Corona.

Marking the day, director Asangla Imti unveiled the plaque of the ADS Dimapur office building on behalf of advisor Phukayi Sumi. Asangla who conducted the inaugural session, informed that the programme was being held virtually for maintaining social distancing. Although

Webinar discusses women’s safety and security

DIMAPUR: Peace Channel and North East Institute of Social Sciences & Research (NEISSR) Dimapur organized a webinar on “women’s safety and security” on August 8. Resource persons for the webinar were Asha Sanchu, director Miqlat Ministry and Gracy Aye, state coordinator SRCW, Govt of Nagaland.

A release by Peace Channel stated that Fr. Dr. C.P. Anto, director, Peace Channel and principal, NEISSR in his introductory remarks stressed on how political will can play a great role in the process of protection of women and girls.

He held that if people actively promote and involve women in politics, in decision making and policy making, there will be better society where women’s concerns will be truly addressed.

Gracy Aye said that security and safety of women wasn’t confined to the plight of women alone but was a social issue and concern. From the perspective of Nagaland, she displayed myriad representation of violence faced by women, which in some cases was settled by customary law (mostly in villages) and order due to which many cases go unreported/unrecorded.

As per reports there were numerous cases of domestic violence, rape, murder and cybercrime that women face, and the way forward was not stigmatism but “it should start at home”, she added.

Speaking on the topic from the perspective of economic empowerment, Asha Sanchu shared that in the midst of the pandemic and lack of job opportunity, there was a need to promote sustainable,

DC Tsg directs shopkeepers/ business establishments

DIMAPUR: DC Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant has issued orders on August 10 that drivers/handymen/ passengers of trucks bringing essential commodities to Tuensang town are deboarding from their vehicles and mixing with local population.

According to DIPR report, despite repeated directions to shopkeepers/ business establishments to ensure that no drivers/ handyman/passengers of trucks de-board from their vehicles while unloading of goods, DC stated that

this unsafe practice remains unchecked.

In view of this and as decided in the Tuensang DTF on COVID-19 meeting held on August 7, shopkeepers/business establishments have been directed to ensure that no drivers/handymen/ passengers of trucks deboard from their vehicles while unloading goods.

Further, DC informed that failure to comply with this order shall invite penalty on shopkeepers/business establishments concerned as per various provisions of the Law.

organic, durable and marketable skill development for women as means to empower them.

She observed that empowered women were less subjected to violence and at such juncture, she suggests having a holistic approach and engaging in social dialogue to bridge gaps between any loopholes.

Meanwhile, the session organized in concern to women welfare was also extended with the discussion of violence and abuse faced by men. In his remark Fr. C.P. Anto thanked collaborators Dimapur Christian Forum (DCF), Nagaland NGO’s Forum, Miqlat Ministry, SRCW etc., Earlier, the webinar was moderated by Vitono Haralu, trainer and consultant, Peace Channel, who delivered vote of thanks, followed by an interactive session.

we have realised that the pandemic would stay with us for good, yet it has also given us the advantage to be more IT savy and upgrade ourselves technologically, Asangla observed.

J u n i o r e n g i n e e r, F&CS, presented the technical report. The total project cost of 1.0 crore and total work order amounting to Rs.88 lakhs was awarded to M/S Temjentemsu (class I government registered contractor) he informed.

Rev Vitoshe Swu offered the dedicatory prayer. ADS Supply Dimapur, Kavito Sema, department officials, officials from FCI and others attended the programme.

Areas sealed in Mima and Merapani villages DIMAPUR: In view of the detection of COVID-19 positive cases, the deputy commissioner (DC) Kohima Gregory Thejawelie has demarcated two locations and notified that Mima village as “sealed area” in order to contain the spread of the disease/infection and for necessary contact tracing. In a notification, DC Kohima stated that all movement of person/ vehicles within the defined sealed area was strictly restricted/prohibited and under active surveillance with immediate effect.

Merapani: Additional deputy commissioner Bhandari, Tiameren Chang in an order on August 9 has declared six colonies of Merapani village (Marachu Yan) under Bhandari sub-division, as sealed areas. Meri Colony, Church Colony, Medical Colony, Landong Colony, Tsumang Colony and NST Colony were sealed in order to contain the spread of infection and to initiate active surveillance and contact tracing with immediate effect. All vehicular and public movements were also declared restricted within the demarcated colonies and were placed under active surveillance immediately under the order.

NPCC president Power disruptions in Mkg, Pungro Mokokchung transmission division (MTD) appoints new DIMAPUR: has informed all consumers under Mokokchung town and surrounding areas that load shedding may be imposed DCC presidents itsas and when required from August 12 to 21. A press release

DIMAPUR: In exercise of Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) Constitution Note C of Art. XIV, the president has appointed new presidents of DCC Kiphire, Noklak and Wokha.

A press release by NPCC president office stated that, Khaseo Anar has been appointed as president DCC of Kiphire as proposed by incumbent DCC president Kiphire, Thritsali Sangtam, L. Mulai appointed as president, DCC Noklak, in view of creation of Noklak district by the state government. President DCC Noklak has been authorised to constitute the ad-hoc district executive committee and subordinate committees in exercise of NPCC constitution. K. Yinsangbemo Kikon has been appointed as president DCC Wokha as against existing vacancy caused by demise of late Rabomo Ngullie.

3 RD DEATH ANNIVERSARY of Late Nentilo Woch

Three years have

CTC principal, Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener releasing a book authored by Dr. Boholi Z. Sema.

DIMAPUR: Clark Theological College (CTC) held a programme to celebrate its 48th foundation day at the college multi-court on August 10.

A press release by CTC director professor L. Imsutoshi Jamir stated that, principal of the college Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener encouraged each member of the Clark community to walk extra mile for the well-being of the institution and for the Glory of God. He challenged, “If God has done wondrous things, what role you and I would like to play for the well-being of the College?” and invited Clark community to pray more and give more for CTC.

The programme also witnessed the launching of the book “Pastoral care and counselling: towards cultural fidelity among Naga youth”, formally released by prof. Mar Pongener.

The book is authored

by Dr. Boholi Z. Sema, currently teaching at CTC in the department of Christian ministry (pastoral counselling) and is published by Christian World Imprints, Delhi.

Earlier, programme was chaired by Dr. Arenla Longkumer, scripture reading and prayer by the chaplain, Rev. Dr. A. Tali Ao, special song by Dr. Nungshi and family and benediction was offered by Dr. Renbi Rangthang.

news in Brief

by MTD SDO (Trans) stated that, this was due to necessitated maintenance of 66/33KV 20MVA power transformer at 132/66/33KV Aolichen substation, Mokokchung. All the public in the affected areas have been requested to extend cooperation and bear with the inconvenience during this period.

Pungro town: Power supply was disrupted at Pungro town PWD ward and some parts of adjoining colonies due to lightning strike which had damaged the transformer of 250KVA, 11/0.4KV on August 8. EE (Elect) Kiphire Power department informed that it was putting all efforts to restore power supply at the earliest possible time. The consumers have been requested to bear with the inconvenience.

27th state level Hindi Diwas postponed: All Nagaland Hindi Teachers’ Union (ANHTU) has informed that the 27th state level Hindi Diwas celebration scheduled to be held at Wokha during September 2020 has been postponed to 2021 at the same venue. ANHTU has also informed its affiliated units to organise the Hindi Diwas programme at their respective districts by following the SOP issued by the government.

ADC Pughoboto informs: ADC Pughoboto Thungchanbemo Tungoe has informed all the Pughoboto SDPDB members that there will be a meeting on August 14, 11 a.m at DB court in the ADC office Pughoboto. All the members have been requested to attend the meeting without fail.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

15th DEATH ANNIVERSARY

(16/08/1966 – 11/08/2018)

Lt. Rev. Dr. Najekhu Yeptho

of our beloved Dad

Mrs. Visheno Angami

You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, although we cannot see you, You’re always at our side.

passed since you left us for your heavenly

CTC observes 48th foundation day at Aolichen

DP-3405

Missing you so much Loving Husband, Son, Daughter, Son-In-Law and Relatives

DP-3410

2

A great soul serves everyone all the time.

A great soul never dies.

It brings us together again and again.

Always in our hearts, Mrs. Kitoli Naje, Children, Grandchildren and In-Laws.

O B I T UA RY

abode but we continue to remember you fondly you are missed.

Loving family Members DP-3409

11-08-2017

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

DIMAPUR: Wozhuro Range Council Union (WRCU) has resolved to extend restrictions of public and vehicular movement within its range from August 11 to 21.

A press release by WRCU chairman Yanbemo Tungu and geneal secretary, Peter Khuvung stated that this was resolved at the meeting held on August 9 as a precautionary measure and for public safety. It also requested citizens to refrain from unnecessary movement except for emergency purposes.

WRCU also asked all Wokha bound returnees from within the state, district or outside the state to compulsorily register as per order issued by DC on August 7.

No person will be allowed to enter the range without producing clearance or registration certificate issued by medical team, Wokha.

Further, any person going against the decision of the union will be dealt according to the resolution of the six village councils, students, youth, Eloe Hohos, churches and various organisations and leaders of Wozhuro range.

K Y M C

LATE SHANCHOBENI TUNGOE 03rd Jan 2002 – 28th July 2020

We the bereaved family members would like to express our profound and heartfelt gratitude to LBCD, Phiro Union, relatives, neighbors, friends and well wishers who stood by us physically, spiritually and financially at the sad demise of our beloved Late Shanchobeni Tungoe on 28th July 2020.

Though we are unable to thank everyone individually, however it is our fervent prayer that the Almighty God bestow upon his unseen blessing abundantly.

DP-3421

Loving Parents, Brothers, Sister and Relatives

We the bereaved family of Late Tachikala Longkumtzür, W/o Late Akangmongba would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to every individual who stood by us and rendered your support physically, financially and spiritually during her prolonged illness and demise of our beloved mother on 6th August 2020.

We are especially grateful to : 1. Dr. Chubala, Mahila Battalion.

2. Police Baptist Church Chumoukedima.

3. Dimapur Area Chuchuyimlang Union & Fellowship.

4. Salulamang Union Dimapur & Chumoukedima & Dimapur Fellowship.

DP-3418

K-1289

WRCU resolves to extend restrictions

Loving Children, Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren & In-laws.

K Y M C

3

Northeast

Nagaland Post, Dimapur Tuesday, August 11, 2020

filed against Assam Meghalaya facing shortage of doctors: Official BJPComplaints MLA over controversial remarks MHC warns rumour mongers on COVID-19

Correspondent

Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma speaks with doctors and officials during a review meeting at Civil Hospital in Shillong.

Shillong, Aug 10 (PTI): The Meghalaya government is facing a shortage of doctors even as the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing at a rapid rate in the state, an official said.

The state government had given advertisement for filling up the vacant posts of doctors, but very few turned up, the official said.

“There is a shortage of more than 100 doctors as per the present vacant posts. The health department could not even get 50 doctors to appoint on a contractual basis for tackling the COVID-19 situation,” Health Services director Aman War said.

“We have advertised for the post of doctors in the state as well as outside the state but no one had come forward (to apply),” he said.

According to the senior health department official, there are over 800 doctors in different government hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Public Health Centres (PHCs) across the state and all are actively working to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The shortage is mainly due to the fact that many doctors are refusing to work in state government hospitals after completing their medical education, he said.

Many of them have paid the bond amount for not working in state government hospitals after completing their medical education in the state, he said.

“Over Rs 3 crore was collected as bond amount penalty from such doctors in two years,” War said.

He said, the bond amount

Highway truckers in Manipur threaten strike

Correspondent

IMPHAL, Aug 10: Interstate service truckers in Manipur on Monday threatened to launch a “steering down strike” if the government failed to address their plights within seven days.

The drivers are demanding setting up of a special COVID-19 testing facility in Imphal’s Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) where they were being screened when they arrived from other states or at a convenient place, a policy to compensate in case of any fatality among the drivers and handymen on duty, separate fuel refill station and special arrangement for repairing their vehicles.

The drivers have already approached the concerned authorities of the state government, but no positive response has come up from the state government side till date, the drivers alleged.

On Monday, the drivers also came out on the streets and staged a protest. Talking to reporters, a leader of the protesting drivers highlighted their grievances.

He said that since the outbreak of the COVID-19 in the state, they were restricted from visiting their homes.

Amid the COVID-19 induced lockdown, authorities of Manipur government have been conducting regular screening of drivers and handymen of goods trucks transporting essential commodities.

Apart from medical check-ups, the state transport department has also taken up measures to prevent the transporters from mingling with others.

If any of the truckers developed symptoms of COVID-19, they would be kept at a quarantine centre for 14 days.

The leader of the drivers alleged that they were not allowed to stop at any place along the highway when the vehicles developed mechanical problems.

The drivers warned that if the state government failed to take up necessary steps to address their problems within the next seven days, they would go on steering down strike from the next day.

has been increased to Rs 30 lakh but still many doctors are not joining state government hospitals.

Meanwhile, Meghalaya on Monday reported 52 new COVID-19 cases, including 29 BSF personnel, taking the state’s tally to 1,114, officials said.

Of the total 1,114 COVID19 cases, 610 are active as 498 people have recovered from the disease and six have died.

The 52 new COVID-19 cases were reported from East Kashi Hills (11), Ri Bhoi (2) and 39 in West Garo Hills district which includes 29 BSF personnel, Director of Health Services, Aman War said.

He said of the 610 active COVID-19 cases, 427 are in East Khasi Hills which also includes 160 personnel of various armed forces.

One killed in wild boar attack in Assam Guwahati, Aug 10 (PTI): An employee of Assam Archaeology Department, who was attacked and critically injured by a wild boar, died on Monday at the Gauhati Medical College Hospital, an official said.

The man, along with four others, were attacked by a wild boar who had strayed into the Ambari area of the city on Saturday, and was later killed allegedly by locals.

The post-mortem of the employee, identified as Motlesh Ali, has been conducted and the body handed over to family members, the official said.

The wild boar had entered an area which houses the Guwahati Press Club, Archaeology Department and the Assam Textile Institute.

Locals had allegedly attacked the animal with sharp weapons and stones, killing it.

The forest department was informed by office bearers of the Guwahati Press Club, but the boar was killed before its personnel reached the spot.

Shillong, Aug 10: The Meghalaya High Court (MHC) on Monday warned to all those who are spreading rumours through the social media in regard to COVID-19 cases relating to some court officials.

The High Court has been closed down for three days from Monday in order to sanitise the whole building after five officials of Meghalaya High Court Registry tested positive for COVID-19.

“These officials are asymptomatic and healthy. For the present, they are undergoing self isolation at the High Court Guest House. They are being monitored round the clock,” High Court Registrar General, Belma Mawrie said.

In a press communiqué, Mawrie informed that a thorough enquiry was conducted and after such enquiry, it has been ascertained and confirmed that they have not come into contact with any other person inside/outside the High Court.

Refuting claims on social media that guests of the High Court have flouted COVID health protocol, the Registrar General has warned that all those responsible for spreading such rumours would be appropriately dealt with in accordance with law.

“All guests of the High Court have strictly adhered to the standard COVID health protocol as determined by the State government, including getting themselves tested immediately on their arrival in Shillong and maintaining all quarantine/social distance norms, etc,” Mawrie asserted.

Guwahati, Aug 10 (PTI): Over half-a-dozen complaints have been filed against controversial Assam BJP MLA Shiladitya Dev by various organisations days after he termed revered scholar Syed Abdul Malik an “intellectual jihadi”.

BJP leader and Assam Minority Development Board Chairman Muminul Aowal condemned the statement and demanded a public apology from his party colleague.

The Congress called Dev a “mad person” who should be sent to “mental asylum” for his frequent controversial and communally-sensitive statements.

It also described him as the “Rakhi Sawant of the BJP”, in a reference to the Bollywood actor who is known for making controversial remarks.

The Congress’ minority department lodged a complaint at the Hatigaon police station in Guwahati on Sunday against Dev and demanded immediate arrest of the legislator from the Hojai constituency.

The Sadou Asom Goria-Moria-Deshi Jatiya Parishad has filed complaints at different police stations in Barpeta, Dhubri and Morigaon districts, while the Sadou Asom Goria Yuva-Chatra Parishad filed a report at

Shiladitya Dev (File)

Jalukbari police station in Guwahati.

The Asom Songrami Yuva Manch, too, filed a complaint at the Hatigaon police station and demanded strict action against Dev. “What Shiladitya said, I oppose it and strongly condemned it,” BJP leader Aowal said. “If he does not apologise publicly, then I will always take a strong stand against him.”

Former Assam chief minister Tar un Gogoi strongly condemned Dev’s derogatory remarks against Malik, a highly-respected poet, novelist and short story writer.

Congress Lok Sabha MP Abdul Khaleque termed the BJP MLA a “mad person who should be sent to mental asylum”.

Another Congress

leader Kamal Kumar Medhi said, “Shiladitya Dev is the Rakhi Sawant of the BJP. The Assamese society should not give him any importance.”

Asam Sahitya Sabha president Kuladhar Saikia condemned the “controversial remarks” against Malik, who was also the president of the apex literary body.

Dev had said last Friday that Malik was a poet who was indulging in “intellectual jihad”. He made the remarks while commenting on the recent communal clash in Sonitpur district on the day of the foundation stone-laying of Ram temple.

Cutting across political affiliations, this sparked sharp reactions across the state and many groups burnt effigies of Dev on Sunday.

Second attempt to cap Assam gas well blowout fails Guwahati, Aug 10 (PTI): The second attempt to shut Oil India’s damaged well at Baghjan in Assam, which has been spewing gas uncontrollably for 76 days, failed on Monday when the iron cable to lift the lid snapped, the PSU said.

This was the second attempt in ten days.

The company said in a statement that when the blow out preventer (BOP) stack alignment was underway to insert the studs one of the two bull lines connected with the Athey Wagon, the equipment for fighting oil field fire which was lifting it, came out from the socket due to excessive heat.

“From the safety point of view and stability required for alignment of the BOP stack on the well head, experts decided to safely remove the BOP stack from the well head.

Operations will resume after carrying out necessary rectification jobs,” it added.

The BOP is a very heavy metal cover weighing several tonnes that is placed at the mouth of any gas or oil well to stop leak-

age of the fuel from under the ground.

Oil India Ltd (OIL) spokesperson Tridiv Hazarika told PTI that experts were trying to put the blow out preventer (BOP) at the mouth of the well, which is on fire since June 9, but the wire snapped due to excessive heat.

“After placing the BOP at the well mouth, experts tried to fit the spools. But as there was constant fire, the cable broke.

“Our experts are working on to repair the cable.

As soon as it is ready, we will try again,” he added.

The first attempt to shut the damaged gas well had faced a setback when the wagon or hydraulic lift used to put a lid on the mouth gave in and toppled over on July 31.

Well number 5 at Baghjan in Tinsukia district has been spewing gas uncontrollably since May 27 and it caught fire on June 9, killing two of OIL’s firefighters at the site.

On July 22 three foreign experts of a Singapore company invited to assist OIL and ONGC experts for putting out the inferno, received burn injuries while

Smoke billows from a fire at Baghjan oil field, a week after a blowout, in Tinsukia district on June 9, 2020. (File) they were removing a spool from the well head.

Hazarika said that the injured experts have left the country and two others from the company are working at the site”.

OIL said it continues to face protests and blockades across few of its wells and field locations leading to heavy loss in production in the last few months.

“OIL’s cumulative loss of crude oil and natural

gas has been 24,968 MT and 60.2 MMSCM respectively,” the release said.

The PSU said that various assessments and impact studies of the blowout as well as the blaze is on in villages and nearby forest areas by multiple agencies such as ERM India, TERI, CSIR-NEIST and IIT-Guwahati.

OIL said that surveys for assessment of damage for compensation by the

district administration are in progress in both Tinsukia and Doomdooma circles.

The total number of families surveyed for assessment of damage for compensation till August 9 in Doomdooma and Tinsukia circles is 2,739.

Over 9,000 people were initially shifted to 13 relief camps after the well suffered a blowout in May and subsequently caught fire last month, it added.

Assam DGP tests positive for COVID-19 Two killed in fire in Jorhat Recruitment ad for 5,285 posts is fake, says Ministry of Railways

Jorhat, Aug 10 (PTI): At least two persons were killed and three others injured on Monday in a major fire that gutted some shops, houses and godowns on the busy AT Road in Jorhat city, officials said.

The fire has been brought under control now after fire tenders from ONGC, Numaligarh Refinery and Air Force apart from the State Fire Services from Jorhat, Titabor, Mariani, Borholla and Dergaon fought several hours to douse the blaze, the officials said.

“At least two persons have died and three other persons suffered injuries in the major fire, which broke out near Marwari Thakurbari beside the Tocklai river bridge on the busy AT Road on Sunday midnight,” Jorhat Deputy Commissioner Roshni Aparanji Korati said.

Officials involved in the fire control operations said that at least six other persons have suffered minor Railway Police Force (RPF) personnel inspect the tracks with a sniffer dog, ahead injuries due to the fire and follow-up rescue exercise. of the Independence Day, in Guwahati on Monday. (PTI) Guwahati, Aug 10 (PTI): Director General of Assam Police Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, officials said.

The top police officer has opted for home isolation, an official source told PTI. “Healthcare professionals will act as per protocols and test the samples

of his immediate contacts,” a senior official said.

Since March, around 30 people at the Assam Police Headquarters have tested positive, including the IGP (Law and Order) and DIG (Administration).

Assam Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) G P Singh on Sunday tweeted that a total of 2,259 personnel from

the force have contracted the virus so far, out of whom 1,734 have recovered.

“Unfortunately, we have lost six colleagues till date,” he had said. Assam has reported a total of 58,837 coronavirus cases, while 42,325 people have recovered from the disease.

Altogether 145 people have died due to COVID-19 in the state.

Korati said that as per the preliminary estimates, around 10 establishments like shops, houses, godowns and hotels were gutted in the fire. “... 13 fire tenders of State Fire Services, ONGC, Air Force, Numaligarh Refinery and from nearby districts were engaged to control the blaze. Some of the fire tenders are still present at the site,” she added.

The deceased have been identified as Satyanarayan Agarwal (75) and Gomti Devi (72), who had jumped from their home to the Tocklai river flowing at the backside of their building, an official said.

T h e i n j u r e d we r e admitted at Jorhat Medical College and Hospital, which has referred them to Dibrugarh for advanced treatment, Korati said.

According to Jorhat Fire officer Bidyut Gogoi, the initial investigation has hinted towards a short circuit from a ceiling fan in one of the buildings as the reason for the fire.

New Delhi, Aug 10 (Agencies): Ministry of Railways on Sunday issued a clarification about an advertisement by a private agency in a newspaper regarding alleged recruitment in eight categories of posts on Indian Railways.

“It has come to notice of Ministry of Railways that one organization by name of “Avestran Infotech” having website address www.avestran.in has given an advertisement in a prominent news paper on 8th August 2020 calling for applications against a total number of 5285 number of post in eight categories on outsourcing basis on Indian Railways on 11 years contract. The applicants have been asked to deposit Rs.750/-as online fee and last date for receipt of applications has been mentioned as 10th Sept.2020,” the ministry said.

Any Railway recruitment is always done only

by Indian Railways and no private agency has been authorized to do the same, the ministry added.

“It may be informed to all that Advertisement for any Railway recruitment is always done by Indian Railways ONLY. No private agency has been authorized to do the same. The said issuance of said advertisement in question is illegal.

In this connection, it is also clarified that the recruitment of various categories of Group ‘C’ and erstwhile Group ‘D’ posts on Indian Railways is presently catered to by 21 Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) and 16 Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC) only and not by any other agency.

Vacancies on Indian Railways are filled up by giving wide publicity through Centralized Employment Notifications (CENs),” the release stated.

The ministry said the issuance of the advertise-

ment in question is illegal and tantamounts to fraud and that Railways will initiate strict action against the agency.

“On-line applications are called for from eligible candidates all over the country. CEN is published t h r o u g h E m p l oy m e n t News/Rozgar Samachar and an indicative notice is given in National Daily and Local Newspapers.

The CEN is also displayed on the official websites of RRBs/RRCs. The website address of all RRBs/RRCs is mentioned in the CEN.It is further clarified that the Railways have not authorized any private agency as yet to do the recruitment of staff on its behalf as alleged by the above named agency. Railways has initiated its investigation and is going on to take strictest action as per law against the above agency/persons involved in above matter,” the ministry said.

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 246 Dimapur, TuesDAY, August 11, 2020

A ‘strong leader’ in SL

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ri Lanka voted overwhelmingly for the Sri Lanka People’s Front(SLPP) which won 145 seats and together with allies won 150 seats or 2/3rd of the nation’s 225-member parliament after last weeks election. The mandate for the SLPF is also a mandate for the party’s two brothers –prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his younger brother Gotabaya, who was elected president in November last year. Mahinda Rajapaksa’s landslide victory comes at a time when Sri Lanka has become strategically important for India, China and even US, Japan and Australia. The biggest casualty from the election outcome was Sri Lanka’s grand old partythe United National Party (UNP) of former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe- which managed to win only one seat. The Sri Lankans have dealt a devastating blow on the western liberals especially the UNP and a big boost for a “strong” government headed by the Rajapaksa brothers. When the liberal-oriented UNP came to power in 2015, it promised democratic revival, promoting peace and reconciliation among the Tamil minorities and Sinhalese and establishing corruption-free governance. The leadership of Ranil Wickremesinghe proved ineffective and also rife with alleged corruption. Worse, the UNP was also accused of surrendering Sri Lankan sovereignty by co-sponsoring a resolution at the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) that committed the country to account for “war crimes” allegedly committed by its armed forces in the final phase of the war in 2009 to eliminate the terror group Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The resolution would involve setting up war crimes tribunals in Sri Lanka where foreign judges would sit in judgement. The surrender to UNHRC and the West was seen by the Sinhala Buddhist majority in particular, as an affront to their cultural identity. The SLPP was able to exploit the sentiments of the majority Sinhalese including even some Tamil minority voters who wanted the past behind them. However, the western media and its human rights groups have already started to brand the SLPP election win as a nationalist vote for authoritarian government backed by the military – as President Gotabaya as defence secretary was instrumental in conducting the successful war against the LTTE. The liberals backed by Western-funded NGOs, nurtured with the views of the Englishspeaking and Westernised elite of the country, will now have to realise that they have missed the pulse of the people. The UNHRC and human rights lobbies were a stumbling block on Tamil minorities in Sri Lanka, who wanted to let bury the bitter and violent past under LTTE behind so had voted for SLPP. The ninth Parliament of Sri Lanka will not only see the siblings helm the country’s two most powerful offices, but will have among its members, their third and elder brother Chamal Rajapaksa, a former Speaker, his son Shasheendra Rajapaksa and Namal Rajapaksa, son of Mahinda Rajapaksa and a popular former MP from the southern Hambantota district. Thus, the landslide win is also in some way, a mandate for the Rajapaksas to deliver and India with another ‘strong leader’ will also be keen to see if the SLPP will veer away from China and maintain equidistance with its neighbours.

DailyDevotion The Holy Suffering of the Saint Let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good…

—1 Peter 4:19 Choosing to suffer means that there must be something wrong with you, but choosing God’s will— even if it means you will suffer— is something very different.

No normal, healthy saint ever chooses suffering; he simply chooses God’s will, just as Jesus did, whether it means suffering or not. And no saint should ever dare to interfere with the lesson of suffering being taught in another saint’s life.

The saint who satisfies the heart of Jesus will make other saints strong and mature for God. But the people used to strengthen us are never those who sympathize with us; in fact, we are hindered by those who give us their sympathy, because sympathy only serves to weaken us. No one better understands a saint than the saint who is as close and as intimate with Jesus as possible. If we accept the sympathy of another saint, our spontaneous feeling is, “God is dealing too harshly with me and making my life too difficult.” That is why Jesus said that self-pity was of the devil (see Matthew 16:21-23). We must be merciful to God’s reputation.

It is easy for us to tarnish God’s character because He never argues back; He never tries to defend or vindicate Himself. Beware of thinking that Jesus needed sympathy during His life on earth. He refused the sympathy of people because in His great wisdom He knew that no one on earth understood His purpose (see Matthew 16:23). He accepted only the sympathy of His Father and the angels (see Luke 15:10).

Look at God’s incredible waste of His saints, according to the world’s judgment. God seems to plant His saints in the most useless places. And then we say, “God intends for me to be here because I am so useful to Him.” Yet Jesus never measured His life by how or where He was of the greatest use. God places His saints where they will bring the most glory to Him, and we are totally incapable of judging where that may be.

Quotes

No legacy is so rich as honesty. ~ William Shakespeare

I

h ave k n ow n M e r ritt Clifton for many years now. He, his wife Beth, and son Wolf are completely devoted to animals, and run an emagazine called ANIMALS 24-7 which you should all read.

One of their board members, Vicky Crosetti who died recently, was a nationally recognized expert in the phenomenon of hoarding. She had written an article on how to deal with this and I will quote liberally from her experience, because we have to deal with this on a regular basis and each case breaks my heart.

People who claim to love animals often mistreat them terribly. Not just the people who keep a single pet and lock him/ her up the whole day at the gate, but the people who “rescue” animals from the street and take them back to their “shelters”/homes.

I start getting irate messages from neighbours, of people like this, who complain about filth and noise.

When I send an investigation team, we find dozens of animals crowded into a small filthy space, all tied up, some in cages, many dead, and the others close to death.

This is typical of “good intentions gone bad” and it signifies “obsessivecompulsive” behaviour.

This is not just true of single people but of entire so called “shelters”.

It breaks my heart when I see a shelter, which I have created or contributed to, whose caretakers I have believed in, show a

completely different picture when I finally have it inspected. It turns out to be a crowded holding centre for hundreds of ill, diseased and wounded dogs.

N o m e d i c i n e, n o staff, no cleanliness and probably very little food.

In the last ten years I have found at least 5 like this, the last one being a hellhole run by two sisters in Ghaziabad. I am not including gaushalas which are more or less all terrible - just hundreds of sick and dying cows kept for religious reasons and left to die unattended and unfed.

Last year the two sisters were evicted from their flat in the middle of the night. The flat was full of garbage, old newspapers, cigarette butts, used sanitary napkins, and cats on the verge of death. The stench was unbearable. I helped them by organising lawyers, but they drove them crazy. It was clear that they both needed hospitalization. Now I have a situation in Navi Mumbai where an elderly woman runs a “shelter” which has huge mortality, because it is literally a hellhole.

Any attempt to stop her results in threats to commit suicide, slit wrists, begging on Facebook and promises to do better. But she has killed hundreds of animals.

Each drama on the Net brings her in more money and public acclaim. I am the bad guy here.

Last month I was sent a mail by someone who has a house near Kolkata.

She wrote that she was

Nagaland Post, Dimapur Tuesday, August 11, 2020

These are the rules an animal ‘rescuer’ and had run out of money. I called immediately. She had 60 cats and 50 dogs taken from the street – one house.

Not one had been sterilized and most of them were pregnant. I asked People for Animals Kolkata to sterilize the animals immediately, and a very kind person in Kolkata offered money for the operations.

One month later when I called, I learnt that most of the cats had died from a feline virus because she wouldn’t spend money on a vaccine. She became abusive when I told her to get the remaining vaccinated. There is no doubt that she is a typical hoarder.

We need to deal with these cases as one would deal with a normal cruelty case: have the person or perpetrator arrested for deliberate cruelty, and the animals taken away, treated and re-homed if possible. We need to make sure that this person is never going to control the fate of animals again.

This is what Crosetti says “Animal hoarding cases are cruelty cases. Whether one animal or 100 suffer, there is no valid excuse for it; original intentions are irrelevant; and legally extenuating circumstances,

such as mental illness or personal crisis, are matters to address in the courtroom, often as obstacles to affecting the best outcome for the animals.”

Hoarders profess to love their animals. Their love, however, tends to be thinly veiled obsessive possessiveness. They use the word “mine” a lot and see the animals as property, probably the only property they have.

They do not want to part with their animals under any circumstance, even death.

I have seen this in three of my PFA units which, unfortunately, continue to keep the name but have nothing to do with us: one of the women managers is a widow, the other unmarried, the third is run by an unmarried, failed homeopath.

They do a dreadful job, and the shelters, which I built for them, are in a shamble and the animal suffer hugely. But they will not give them up to a better team, will allow no volunteers, are rude to everyone, cry easily, tell a lot of lies and fight like cornered rats if even one of the animals is sought to be adopted. They will not sterilize the animals.

In one of these shelters two rescued rabbits had been put into a cage, and

when I inspected it there were over one hundred, of which many had literally been squashed to death.

When I put my foot down, they took out ads accusing me of undue interference, and literally absconded with the shelters which are now simply hoarding centres for animals who are not fed or treated.

I wish I could have them arrested for causing such mass misery under the guise of animal welfare. These three need to go to jail – but the police don’t seem to take cruelty at all seriously.

In every case I have attempted soft interventions: offering money for volunteers and staff, offering to take the animals or get a doctor to treat them. No deal. “Hoarders are addicts. Like any addicts, they will do and say anything to satisfy the demands of their habit.”

“Hoarders who are reclusive eccentrics elicit sympathy. Those who manage an ar ticulate, well-dressed facade seem to make a credible case that they are misunderstood and mistreated.”

Hoarders believe that life, endured in any amount of misery, is preferable to death. But they never get rid of the dead either. In so many of these cases I have seen long dead animals lying all over their premises. Hoarders are also very secretive. They never make friends.

Hoarding sites tend to be both unimaginably filthy and in dangerous disrepair. They slide in and out of their residences and only the smell gives them away. From experi-

ence I know what Crosetti says “Hoarders often are almost frightening in their ability to one moment appear tearful, pleading, and pathetic, yet the next moment rage out of control, screaming obscenities.

They can also become real physical threats”, which is why we need a team when we deal with one.

A specific protocol is needed: capture nets, drugs, safety gear, and carriers in the ambulance and a police backup. Get in touch with good shelters beforehand so that animals can immediately be put there if you have a housing problem. Videotape the operation. Each rescued animal needs a complete veterinary examination and, if necessary, have a media person present. Public outrage over animals being treated cruelly can move the police to act faster. How judges sentence offenders is often influenced by their perception of public concern.

E ve r yo n e s h o u l d know what a good shelter is: it is a safe haven where animal are treated kindly. “Animals do not starve in a shelter, do not kill each other in fights, do not live in filth, do not suffer from untreated disease and injury, and they do not breed.”

Whether the shelter is big or small, whether it is run by an organization or one person, whether it is on institutional land or in a person’s home, these are the rules. To join the animal welfare movement contact gandhim@nic.in, www.peopleforanimalsindia.org

Post-mortem Significance of Naga flag and Unlock 3.0: Are we productive? independence celebration

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he Angel of God said, “In the beginning, God reserved the land of brave and barbarous Nagas engaged as British Government Labour force during French war.” During the first world war between France and Germany, about 2000 Nagas were deployed, belonging to various tribes. They were, Sumi 1000, Lotha 400, Ao200, Rengma 200 and Chang 200, and other trans-frontier tribes. Nagas joined the allied force and won the battle, they earned a good reputation and returned to Nagaland in 1918. And henceforth decided that all the Nagas should come together under one political umbrella, so they formed a Naga Elders Union.

In the meantime, there was a British Club at Dimapur, Nagaland.

The Naga elders requested the British for acquiring the club, after it was granted to them, they shifted it to Chotobosti, Kohima, at present mission compound and called it Naga Club. From the Naga club Flag with a prayer. This historic moment was witnessed by C.R. Pawsey, D.C. Naga Hills, Rev. George Supplee Chaha, Missionar y, Naga Hills and Mr. A. Kevichusa along with the Naga club members. Soon after the prayer and hosting of the Flag, a beautiful Rainbow appeared clearly over the Naga club building.

Therefore, the Naga club flag was enshrined with the Rain-bow shape and colour as the Rainbow was believed to be a divine revelation from God, a sign to the Naga Flag peace with God (As published by Thepfulhouvi Solo, I.F.S, Retd. Principal Secretary two years back).

On 10th January, 1929, during a visit to Naga Hills undertaken by Sir. John Simon Commission including Mr. Clement Atlee MP and Mr. Cadegan MP, they asked the Naga leaders about their future in the event of British Government departure from India. Mr. Nizhevi Sema, DB Naga leader then replied to the British without any hesitation, that in the event of British Govt. departure from the Naga Hills, Nagas will not remain under any country domain and shall remain independent as in the days of Naga ancestors.

Accordingly, by the 1935 British, India Parliament Bill, Naga Hills was declared Excluded Area equivalent to Independent.” on 19th July,

1947, a five team delegation of Naga Hoho led by Mr. Zapu Phizo met the late Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Indian Nation at New Delhi and told him, “We the Nagas not join the Indian Nation.” To which Mahatma Gandhi replied, “We will not force you to join, we have fixed 15th August as Indian Independence Day, you can fix 14th August as Naga Independence Day”. Gandhiji declared that Nagas had every right to be Independent of India if they chose to do so. Further he declared that he would oppose with his life if India decided to take Nagaland by force. Because he understood that Nagas were not Indians, but were different in race and culture.

So, as adviced, the Naga Hoho delegate returned to Kohima and discussed with the Naga elders, CR Pawsey, D.C Naga Hills and Rev. George W. Supplee, Missionary, Naga Hills, declared Naga Independence Day on 14th August, 1947, one day ahead of the Indian Independence day.

The message of the declaration of Naga Independence was sent to the then king of England, the Secretary General of the UNO, the office of Embassies at New Delhi and Government of India. Hence, Nagaland celebrated 50 years pilgrim pentecost Jubilee of Nagaland for Christ peace with God on 14th August 1997. Today many Nagas especially the present younger generation are unaware or ignorant of the values and significance that our Naga National Flag upholds and symbolizes. Many Nagas are also in the dark or are least concerned to know of our historical rights, why we Nagas celebrate or observe our Independence day, a day prior to Indian Independence day.

Therefore, to inculcate and instill the spirit of patriotism among the Nagas and to convey the message to every citizen about our duties and responsibilities towards Naga Nation and the significance of our historical facts, we humbly urge each Naga individual to observe 14th August as a day of prayer so that our Almighty God intervenes and deliver us free from the forceful oppression and subjugation of the cruel rule of India. Kuknalim.

K. Kikheto Wotsa, Kilonser, NSCN/GPRN

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orld Health Organisation (WHO) talks about the possibility that Covid-19 is airborne and predicts that it may never go away from us.

The world is under a high speed of race for vaccines which can cure us from this deadly virus. Report states that Russia is set tolaunch for mass production of its vaccine by September and millions of tones by 2021.

At this juncture of race for vaccine, following lock down guidelines & trying to find a way to prevent ourselves from getting infected, can we pause for a minute and ponder upon how are we actually spending our days at this difficult times? India has unveiled its Unlock 3.0 guidelines in less containment zones. But are our minds still locked? Have we stopped thinking and imagining about our future the moment COVID-19 has hit us? Are we literally locked up in our rooms with the fear that this is TheApocalypse and therefore we shall all vanish? Or some people have started thinking of new ideas innovations with the hope that better days are coming?

Demographic studies report that India has more than 65% of its population below the age of 35years, so basically we are a very young country and we are set to become the youngest nation in the world in the next few years.

Which means 65 out of 100 Indians are children and youths. Will it just remain as numbers or are we on a mission to become the most productive nation in the world.

Half a year has passed since this pandemic has hit us and it has traumatized every citizens of the world.

Some has left us and some are learning to live with it.

A round of applause for those who are learning to survive with little means they have and call them the most productive citizens of

our nation. Well, nearly half of our citizens has not come out of our comfort zones; this group can become the most valuable and productive citizens if they unlock their minds and their burning aspirations.

Unlocking our minds can be sum up in various fields. Let us assume, some can pick up hobbies and interests they always wanted to do.

Things may not pick up perfectly at the beginning yet it will and it literally does not matter if you succeed or not; being able to do something different matters.

And why should we only fit in a box when we can fit in many? New Education Policy (2020) will sums up to it.

We can try painting, sketching, reading , writing, singing, gardening, cooking, tailoring, farming, handicrafts and many more. Unlock 3.0 is actually the best time to re-think and accumulate ideas what we can do after the race for vaccines are completed . The younger youths cannot allow the society to call us incredibly lazy anymore.

Being productive does

not always mean being employable. What’s more essential in today’s generation is being able to feed our stomach and our soul at one go and thereby leading us to attain inner peace. We are fortunate enough to live in an era of internet and modern technology, Good education, more freedom and lesser restrictions where life has become more easier and convenient than the past eras.

And lastly at this difficult time, if we are overcoming stress and anxiety, we are productive. If our mind has the power to react, we are productive. If we are working on self-improvement, we are productive. If we are trying to quit some bad habits and moving closer to God, then we are productive.

Personally I have not achieved anything in life so far but I believe with more positive energy and by allowing ourselves to open up our mindswith the spirit of enthusiasm we can do a lot together.

Let’s unlock our minds then.

Imtisenla, Student, (imtisenlalkr9@gmail.com)

Reader’s Post

Traditional values must be protected Sir,

Traditions help form the structure and foundation of our families and our society. They remind us that we are part of a history that defines our past, shapes who we are and who we are likely to become.

By losing traditional values we are losing control upon ourselves. Children reflect values instilled by their families wherever they go and it is best to teach them at a young age so that it becomes part of their personality as they grow.

We must protect our traditional values because they are relevant today and will be relevant tomorrow.

Arong Jamir, Kohima

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

national/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2020

5

PM inaugurates OFC for Andaman & Nicobar Respite for Kerala as rains abate;

NEW DELHI, AUG 10 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the first ever undersea optical fibre project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands which will provide high speed broadband connections in the Union Territory at par with services in the mainland.

On December 30, 2018, the Prime Minister had laid the foundation for the 2,312Kilometers long submarine optical fibre cable project connecting Chennai - Andaman and Nicobar Islands (CANI).

“From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today,” Modi said after inaugurating the project through video conferencing.

The project has been implemented at a cost of Rs 1,224 crore.

Besides Port Blair, it will connect other islands

namely Swaraj Dweep (Havlock), Long Island, Rangat, Little Andaman, Kamorta, Car Nicobar and Greater Nicobar.

PM said that it is the responsibility of the nation to provide modern telecom connectivity to the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

All telecom operators in the country will be able to provide their mobile and broadband services using the CANI optical fibre link.

“The optical fibre connectivity project to connect Andaman and Nicobar with the rest of the country and the world is a symbol of our commitment towards ease of living,” Modi said.

According to official data, internet speed of 400 gigabyte (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands it will be 200 Gb per second.

Undersea cable linking Andaman Islands with Chennai was laid before time despite difficult situa-

Narendra Modi (PTI)

tion, Modi said.

Work of laying undersea cable has been executed

by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months.

This project will give a boost to 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, tele-health, e-governance services and tourism on the islands.

PM said that tourists will get huge benefit from the optical fibre facility and thousands of families in the Union Territory will be able access education, banking, shopping or tele-medicine online. “High impact projects are being expanded in

12 islands of Andaman and Nicobar. Issue of mobile and internet connectivity have been resolved today.

Apart from this, physical connectivity through road, air, and water are being strengthened,” Modi said.

The PM referred to the work on two major bridges and the NH-4, in order to improve the road connectivity of North and Middle Andaman.

He said the Port Blair Airport is being enhanced to handle a capacity of 1,200 passengers and the airports are ready for operations in Diglipur, Car Nicobar and Campbell - Bay. “Similarly, construction of deep draft inner harbour at East Coast is also going on at high speed.

Now there is proposal of a TransShipment Port with an estimated cost of Rs 10,000 crore in Great Nicobar,” Modi said.

The new port will enable big ships to anchor and increase India’s share in

maritime trade, along with new employment opportunities, he said.

The PM said the passenger terminal in Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep and Long Island along with water aerodrome infrastructure like floating jetty will be ready in the coming months and four ships being built at Kochi Shipyard shall be delivered soon to improve water connectivity between the islands and the mainland.

The PM said that when India is moving forward with the resolve of selfsufficiency and is establishing itself as an important player in the global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen our network of waterways and our ports.

He said that the blue economy like fisheries, aquaculture and seaweed farming in the island will accelerate in commensurate with the modern infrastructure being developed in Andaman and Nicobar.

toll in landslip goes up to 49

KOCHI,AUG 10 (PTI): With a let up in the downpour, water receded in many low-lying areas of rain ravaged central Kerala on Monday, while the toll in landslip hit Pettimudi in Idukki rose to 49 with 6 more bodies being recovered from the debris as rescue operations continued to trace those missing.

There was no red alert warning in any of the state’s 14 districts as the intensity of rains decreased and the affected areas started limping back to normalcy, although hundreds of the flood-hit people are still housed in relief camps, particularly in Alappuzha, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and Ernakulam districts.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast very heavy rainfall in isolated areas in the state, prompting the authorities to sound orange alerts in eight districts-- Alap-

puzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasargod districts.

Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has warned about the possibilities of landslides in the hilly areas already hit by extremely heavy rainfall in the past few days and directed people living in the region and government authorities to be vigilant.

Actively carrying out rescue operations at Pettimudi near Rajamala in Idukki district where the settlements of estate workers were destroyed by devastating landslides four days ago, various agencies engaged in the rescue operations on Monday retrieved six more bodies, raising the toll to 49 in the tragedy.

Personnel of NDRF, fire and police departments and volunteers of various organisations will continue their efforts to trace the miss-

ing people feared trapped in the debris, officials said.

Meanwhile, the water level at Mullaperiyar reservoir in Idukki district reached 136.55 feet on Monday evening. The Idukki district Collector had held discussions with the Collector of Theni in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, with regard to the release of water through the tunnel to Vaigai dam when the water level touched the 136-feet mark.

The Kerala government had on Saturday asked the Tamil Nadu government to release water from Mullaperiyar to Vaigai Dam in a phased manner when the water level reached 136 feet in view of heavy rains in Idukki.

Six shutters of the Pamba dam, which were opened on Sunday evening after its water level rose near the permissible limit, were shut on Monday, reducing concerns of flood downstream.

EIA draft must be withdrawn to stop Several BJP workers in Kashmir resign after attacks by militants ‘environmental destruction’: Rahul

NEW DELHI, AUG 10 (PTI): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday stepped up his attack on the Centre over the draft environment impact assessment (EIA), saying it must be withdrawn to stop “environmental destruction”.

Gandhi alleged that the aim of EIA 2020 draft was clear -- “loot of the nation”.

“This (EIA) is another dreadful example of what the BJP government has been doing for its select suitboot ‘friends’ who loot the

resources of the country,” Gandhi alleged. “EIA 2020 draft must be withdrawn to stop #LootOfTheNation and environmental destruction,” he tweeted. The draft EIA notification, which involves procedure of issuing environmental clearances to various projects, was issued by the Environment Ministry in March and public suggestions were invited.

The Environment ministry had earlier said it would not extend the deadline for people to give suggestions

and opinions beyond June 30, but later gave time till August 12.

On Sunday, Gandhi had urged people to protest the new EIA 2020 draft, saying it was “dangerous” and, if notified, the long term consequences would be “catastrophic”. In a Facebook post using the hashtag ‘WithdrawEIA2020’, Gandhi had slammed the government over the EIA, 2020, draft, saying it was not only “disgraceful”, but “dangerous”.

SRINAGAR, AUG 10 (PTI): Nearly a dozen BJP workers in Kashmir have resigned from the party following recent attacks on village-level leaders by militants, which prompted the party to suggest “hosteltype” secure accommodation for its members and their families in each district in the Valley.

Worries have escalated after Abdul Hamid Najar, BJP’s OBC ‘morcha’ district president from Budgam, died at a hospital early on Monday, a day after he was

shot at in his village.

Admitting that several party workers, most of them lower-rung activists, have resigned over the last few days following the recent attacks on BJP panchayat members and sarpanches, a BJP leader said some were from Budgam district in central Kashmir.

Letters and videos of several BJP workers announcing their resignations or disassociation with the party have been posted on social media platforms.

The BJP leader said

State

CMO Tuensang meeting with ward members Peren DTF fixes rates for quarantine centres

CMO Dr. Moatemjen speaking at the meeting.

DIMAPUR: An emergency meeting on COVID-19 pandemic was held with executive members of all ward/ sectors of Tuensang town under the chairmanship of CMO Tuensang, Dr. Moatemjen, at CMO conference hall on August 10.

A press release by DMO Tuensang Apheang stated that, CMO highlighted about the COVID19 cases in the district with 46 positive cases, out of

which 45 have recovered/ discharged and only one active case at present. He mentioned that, the team was trying to identity some good building for the COVID-19 care centre, so the COVID hospital will be shifted in a separate building, making the District Hospital operational for OPD as usual for the patients.

He further informed that returnees coming back to Tuensang from interstate

must be in quarantine centre for 7 (seven) days and followed by 14 days mandatory home quarantine. Main issues discussed were the returnees to Tuensang from inter-district who will be send straight for home quarantine. In this regard, colony/ward/sectors have been asked to take precautionary measures and responsibility in their respective colony/ ward/sectors and make necessary arrangements.

DIMAPUR: Peren district COVID-19 task force meeting was held on August 20 at DC chamber, district Hq. Peren under the chairmanship of DC Peren, Sentiwapang Aier, who is also the DTF chairman.

According to DIPR report, the house deliberated on requirement to identify additional structures for quarantine facility and COVID care centre (CCC).

In this regard Veterinary College Girls Hostel and Zeliangrong Baudi Hall were identified as quarantine facility while St. Xavier College Auditorium and GHSS Chapel Hall as CCC. With regard to quarantine centres managed and arranged by district administration, board members decided to start charging food fees from quarantinees at a minimal rate w.e.f from

August 10. In this connection the members fixed rates from Rs. 300 to Rs. 350 per person per day.

On transportation of returnees from Dimapur and Kohima, the board entrusted civil societies headed by JAC to approach two elected MLAs of Peren district to assist the administration in managing the transportation services/ expenses.

DC informed the members that next DTF meeting will be held on August 17 and requested all the members to attend without fail.

The meeting was also attended by representatives from JAC, NZPO president and ZSU (N) president.

Later, after DTF meeting discussion was also held in regard to forthcoming Independence Day celebration at DC Complex, District Hq. Peren.

CDMEB organises Eco Club Tethuyo carries out plantation drive e-lecture for institutions Correspondent

DIMAPUR: Calcutta Diocesan Mission Education Board (CDMEB) organised first session of academic development e-lecture series organised

by Diocesan Mission Education Board, Bhilai, hosted by St. Thomas, IQAC, Bhilai and Christian College of Engineering and Technology (CCET), Durg on August 7, on Google meet.

A press release by MGM College Dimapur media cell stated that resource person, Rishikesh KB, assistant professor, School of Commerce, Finance and Accountancy Central Camp, Christ University, Bangalore spoke on the topic “upskill and upscale”.

He shared that up-skill and upscale were preparatory means for coping effectively with modern life challenges and maintained that since the use of AI has entered contemporary classroom teaching, there was a need for educators to work on technological up gradation.

Meanwhile, principal, Rev. Fr. Dr. Shibu Varghese along with teaching faculty of MGM College, Dimapur attended the e-lecture which was attended by over 60 participants.

Earlier, the meeting was compèred by Dr. Shiney Mendonce, welcome address by Dr. MG Roymon, principal, St. Thomas College, Bhilai, vote of thanks by Dr. Vinita Thomas, dean academics, while Dr. Joseph Mar Dionysius addressed the meeting by stressing on the importance and dynamics of education in this generation. The webinar will continue till August 10.

Kiphire, Aug 10 (NPN): As part of afforestation drive and in a bit to boost greenery, Eco Club Tethuyo planted more than 800 mango trees around Tethuyo village Kiphire district on August 7. 2020.

A press release by Eco Club Tethuyo stated that, NDPP Kiphire region general secretary, Atsoba Anar lauded the Eco Club Tethuyo for undertaking such an initiative that will have a positive impact on the environment which has been left neglected.

He said the involvement of youth in the plantation drive would create awareness and sensitize society about the importance of trees and their role in environmental

three party workers, including two panchayat members and a sarpanch from Kulgam district of south Kashmir, have resigned from the party.

“There is one from Handwara, one from Kupwara and one from Sopore as well,” he added.

BJP media in-charge Manzoor Bhat dismissed the resignations as of no consequence.

“These all are lower rung workers. This will not affect the party,” Bhat told PTI.

However, he said the party has taken serious note of the attacks on its workers and has suggested that secure accommodation be created for its members and their families in all districts.

BJP J-K general secretary (organisation) Ashok Koul raised the matter with party’s national president J P Nadda and the union territory’s party unit now believes that something will be done to secure its members, Bhat said.

“We brought the matter to the notice of Nadda

and have already sought enhanced security cover for our workers. Some of our workers from places like Kulgam are given accommodation in Srinagar but their family lives in Kulgam so they cannot remain here.

“We have therefore sought secure accommodation for our workers in their respective districts. We believe something is being done on this and it will take shape in the coming few days,” the BJP’s media incharge said.

NORTHFIELD KHIKHA, KOHIMA Information for New Admission New Admission forms for Class Nursery 2021 will be made available from the school establishment (office) or can be downloaded from the school website: northfieldkohima. com K-1296

FELICITATION

The Yanthantsu Ekhung, with immense pride and respect, extend our heartiest congratulations to Mr. Richard Yanthan, S/o Lt. Chenithung James Yanthan and Mrs. Shilomenla Longchari of Lakhuti Village for securing the 133rd position in the recently declared UPSC Examinations 2019 results.

The Yanthantsu Ekhung is proud that you have achieved the goal through tremendous hard work and sincerity. It is truly a moment of immense pride for the Lothas and the Nagas in general.

We wish you all the very best in your prestigious career ahead and pray that the Almighty God continue to bless you and guide you in the days to come.

M. YANTHAN, IAS (Rtd) Chairman, Yanthantsu Ekhung Oking Wokha HQrs.

DP-3417

OFFICE OF THE

JAPUKONG YOUTH ORGANISATION HQ. LONGCHEM, MOKOKCHUNG : NAGALAND

PRESS NOTE

Eco Club members at the plantation drive carried out at Tethuyo village on August 7. (NP)

conservation. More than 40 youths participated at the plantation drive. Pastor TBC Koktsaliba pronounced invocation while VDB secretary Atsang delivered vote of thanks.

Naga girl wins letter writing campaign DIMAPUR: Aboli T Wotsa bagged the first prize for the annual Dhai Akhar letter writing campaign 2019-20 from North East Circle.

In a release, superintendent of Posts, Nagaland division, L. Aboli T Wotsa Tiken Singh stated that at the event organised by department of Posts, India, Wotsa participated in the above 18 years and envelope category under the theme “dear Bapu, you are immortal”.

This is the third consecutive win for Aboli Wotsa in the same competition, having won the first position under envelope category 2018-19 and the second position in the inland letter card category 2017-18 respectively. Wotsa will be awarded with a citation certificate and a cash prize of 25,000. It may be noted that the annual Dhai Akhar letter writing campaign aims to promote the art of letter writing in the country. Out of 2102 participants in the North East level, 891 from Nagaland participated in the competition. department of Posts, Nagaland division also congratulated Wotsa for her achievement.

The Japukong Youth Organisation (J.Y.O), concerned about the flurry of factual as well as fake news circulating in various media platforms regarding Covid-19, took the initiative to procure thermal scanners, along with gloves, would be distributed to 19 Village Councils in Japukong Range and the printed booklets, in collaboration and consultation with relevant experts would be distributed to all the Village Councils and Churches. A short dedication service, before the materials were dispatched, was conducted at the residence of the organization Advisor Er. J. Lanu Longchar on 9th Aug 2020 in the presence of Advisors and office bearers. Rev. N. Imly Jamir, Associate Pastor DABA conducted the service while Limayanger Imchen, president, JYO, thanked all the well wishers for their financial, material and expert assistance in their endeavour.

DP-3414

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national

Army to probe JK encounter of 3 ‘terrorists’

SRINAGAR, AUG 10 (PTI): The army has initiated an inquiry into an “encounter” carried out by its troops in a South Kashmir village, in which three alleged militants were killed, after families in Jammu region’s Rajouri lodged written complaints saying as many of their members involved in labour work were missing from the same area.

On July 18, the army claimed three militants were killed in the higher reaches of Shopian in South Kashmir. However, no further details were shared.

On Monday, Srinagarbased Defence spokesperson Colonel Rajesh Kalia issued a brief statement saying the army has noted social media inputs linked to the operations at Shopian on July 18, 2020.

“The three terrorists killed during the operation have not been identified and the bodies were buried based on established protocols.

The army is investigating the matter,” Kalia said.

This has sparked a controversy with political parties demanding an impartial probe into the alleged encounter to ensure speedy

representational image

justice. The controversy started after some families filed a complaint with a police station in Rajouri stating that their three members are missing since July 17 from Ashimpora area of Shopian where they were working as labourers in apple and walnut orchards.

The families, who filed the police complaint jointly, gave pictures of their kin -- Mohammed Ibrar (21), Ibrar Ahmad (18) and Imtiaz Ahmad (26) -- which were subsequently shared with the Kashmir police for investigation.

The relatives of the youths, belonging to Dhar Sakri village in Kotranka of Rajouri area in Poonch,

lodged the missing report with the local police after they failed to contact the trio and news of an encounter came on July 18 from Ashimpora in Shopian, a police official said.

The official said some of their relatives have reached Shopian in the search of the three youths and were told that the missing men resembled those who were killed by the army in a “gunfight” in a village in the district on July 18.

The National Conference demanded a transparent probe into the incident and advised the administration to ensure that no-extrajudicial killings took place in Jammu and Kashmir.

The party sought to remind the authorities of the Machil fake encounter which resulted in an unrest across the Kashmir valley and asked for a “thorough probe and to ensure that the guilty are not spared”.

Three unemployed youths were killed by the army in 2010 in North Kashmir and dubbed as militants. A probe later indicted army men for staging the fake encounter and a chargesheet was filed in court.

Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari sought an impartial and time bound probe to unearth the mystery behind the disappearance of the three poor labourers of Rajouri district.

In a statement issued here, Bukhari urged the new Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to order a high-level probe into the disappearance of the three labourers whose whereabouts were unknown since July 17.

“The Lt. Governor led government in JK is expected to order and pursue a serious, impartial and transparent investigation that leaves no stone unturned in

finding out what happened to these three poor labourers who have lost contact with their families since July 17.

The truth behind their disappearance must be unearthed as quickly as possible,” he remarked. The JKAP president said the government should assign the probe to a sitting judge who can lead the investigation while taking all the factors into consideration.

Bukhari expressed solidarity with the families of the three missing labourers and assured them of all possible help in tracing the whereabouts of their loved ones. Reacting to the incident, JK unit of CPI(M) said it is a serious issue and needs a time-bound judicial probe.

“According to media reports the trio went missing just a day before the security forces claimed it killed three unidentified militants in Shopian. There are unverified reports that the missing labourers have been killed in a fake encounter in Shopian on July 18. This is shocking and must be probed by a sitting High Court judge in a time-bound manner,” the party said in a statement.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2020

Over 2,500 Jharkhand cops test Covid positive R anchi , A U G 1 0 (IANS): At least 2,565 Jharkhand police personnel have tested positive for coronavirus so far, the state police headquarter said in a statement on Monday.

“The 2,565 police personnel infected with the virus include one Superintendent of Police and ASP-rank officials, six DSPs, 25 Inspectors, 152 Sub-Inspectors, 217 Assistant Sub-Inspectors, four higher level Clerks, 178 Constables, 1,865 Jawans and Drivers, 54 Fourth Grade employees and 56 Home Guards”, the statement said.

Of the infected personnel, 887 have recovered and have been discharged.

The Police department has so far reported six Covid19 deaths.

The police headquarters has asked all police personnel to take the necessary precautions against the pandemic.

Jharkhand reported its first Covid-19 case on March 31.

Shah Faesal steps down as JKPM president

SRINAGAR, AUG 10 (PTI): Shah Faesal, who resigned from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and floated the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Movement (JKPM) last year, has resigned as its president, the party said on Monday.

Faesal had dropped a hint about stepping away from politics on Sunday as he edited his personal details on Twitter, removing the reference to his political affiliations.

He could not be contacted for comments.

The JKPM’s executive committee held an online meeting on Monday to discuss the ongoing political developments in the state, the party said in a statement. “In the meeting, request of Dr Shah Faesal to spare him from the organisational responsibilities was discussed. Dr Shah Faesal had informed state executive members that he is not in a position to continue with political activities and wants to be freed from the responsibilities of the organisation,” the JKPM said. “Keeping in view this request, it was de-

Shah Faesal

cided to accept his request so that he can better continue with his life and contribute whichever way he chooses,” the party said.

The JKPM statement said it has been unanimously decided to appoint vice president Feroze Peerzada as interim president till formal elections can be held for the post of president.

The committee also accepted the resignation of its chairman Javed Mustafa Mir, who is a former MLA, it said. Faesal, who surprised everyone by resigning from the government service in January 2019, had floated his own political party two months later. Faesal was booked under the stringent Public Safety Act later on and released in June.

Colonel, Lieutenant Colonel in J-K face Rhea Chakraborty approaches SC over ‘media trial’ Says no objection if probe transferred to CBI court martial for ‘embezzling’ Rs 58 lakh

Sudoku

KAKURO

NEW DELHI, AUG 10 (AGENCIES): Actor Rhea Chakraborty on Monday told the Supreme Court said that she has no objection if the probe into the death of Sushant Singh Rajput is transferred to the CBI. However, she also alleged that the Bihar police crossed their jurisdiction under “political pressure” and they could not transfer probe to the CBI. The actor approached the apex court today with a fresh plea alleging “media trials” against her saying attempts are being made to pronounce her guilty for the death of Sushant.

Rhea also told the court that even if it transfers the case, the jurisdiction will be with a court in Mumbai instead of Patna.

Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate (ED)

today began a fresh round of questioning with Rhea and her family members in connection with its probe in a money laundering case linked to Rajput’s death in Mumbai.

Rhea, her brother Showik and father Indrajit Chakraborty reported at the office of the central probe agency in the Ballard Estate area around 11 am in response to their scheduled summons for Monday, news agency PTI reported.

Shruti Modi, the business manager of Rhea and Rajput, also reported at the ED office. All the four had been questioned earlier by the agency too.

Earlier, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut also said the Centre’s insistence that CBI should take over the probe into Sushant Singh Rajput death case is an

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Across 8. Messenger (7) 9. Fraternal (9) 13. Make broader (5) 14. Amidst (5) 15. Small amount (7) 16. Disregard (7) 17. Pursue (5) 18. Contort (5) 20. Loathe (5) 22. Beginner (6) 23. Weekday (6) 25. Sleep (7) 27. Criminal (7) 30. Noticeably cold (6) 31. Ghost (6) 32. Sumptuous meal (5) 35. Quarrel (5) 36. Depart (5) 37. Ballroom dance (7) 39. Tool (7) 41. Farewell (5) 42. Male relative (5) 43. Driver (9) 44. Try (7) Down 1. Frankfurter in a roll (3,3) 2. Magnificence (8) 3. Acceptable currency (5,6) 4. Scent (9) 5. Stutter (7) 6. Wilful (10) 7. Group of countries (4) 10. African country (6) 11. Curving inwards (7) 12. Forge (6) 19. U.S. state (7) 21. Serving of food (7) 24. Ice cream flavour (5-6) 26. Period of 1000 years (10) 28. Equipment (9) 29. Poison (7) 30. Rough (6) 32. Matches (8) 33. Giggle (6) 34. Make clear (7) 38. Cooking instructions (6) 40. Give pain (4)

Rhea Chakraborty and her brother Showik leave after a fresh round of questioning by ED in connection with a probe in a money laundering case in Mumbai, Aug. 10. (PTI)

attack on the state’s autonomy and an insult to the Mumbai Police.

“The decision of handing over the investigation to the CBI is an attack on the state’s autonomy…

But anything can happen in our country when an issue is used for political gains and as part of pressure tactics.

It appears that the script of the entire Sushant episode was pre-determined and many things might have happened behind the curtains. In short, it is a conspiracy hatched against Maharashtra,” Raut had written in his weekly column Rokhthok in party’s mouthpiece Saamana.

He also said that even though the CBI is a central investigation agency, it has proved time and again that it is “not independent and impartial”.

CBI raids four locations in Ambience Mall case

NEW DELHI, AUG 10 (IANS): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is carrying out searches at four locations in Delhi, Chandigarh, and Panchkula in Haryana, including the premises of the Ambience Group and one of its directors Raj Singh Gehlot, an official said on Monday.

The CBI official said that the four locations included the official and residential premises of Gehlot and the Ambience Group in connection with the alleged irregularities in the construction of the Ambience Mall in Haryana’s Gurugram.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court had directed the CBI to probe the case for the alleged illegal construction of a commercial building on approximately 18.98 acres of land in Gurugram by blatantly flouting the building by-laws and statutory provisions in collusion with others.

It was alleged that the land where the Ambience Mall was built was meant for a housing project.

The official said that the agency searched the residence of Gehlot in south Delhi’s upscale Hauz Khas and his office premises in Green Park.

The official said that searches were also carried

out at the office of the Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) in Panchkula and the Town and Country planning office in Sector 18 of Chandigarh, which also houses the chief town planner’s office.

The CBI has registered a case against a private person, two private companies based at New Delhi, unknown officials of HUDA, Town and Country Planning Department and unknown private persons on the orders of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

On July 31, the En-

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STOLEN

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forcement Directorate (ED) carried out searches at seven locations in Delhi, including the residential premises of Gehlot, official premises of Aman Hospitality, and other companies of the Ambience Group and other company officials in connection with a Rs 800 crore bank fraud case.

The ED had also questioned Gehlot in connection with the probe.

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amounting to Rs 17 lakh had been made by the Lieutenant Colonel. The equipment was not received in the battalion.

In addition, the Lieutenant Colonel has also been charged with siphoning Rs 1.86 lakh from the condiment allowance meant for troops, while the Colonel has been charged for failure of command and control for inability on his part to detect and prevent this.

Further, the officers were also involved in surreptitiously felling about 200 trees in unit area and selling them.

They are being tried under Sections 52(b) and Sector 63 of the Army Act for intent to defraud and acts prejudicial to good order and military discipline.

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over -- taking over process on change of command.

The matter was reported to higher authorities, following which a court of inquiry (COI) was ordered in 2017 to investigate the lapses.

Both officers were posted out within a few days of each other, sources said. They were later attached back, along with the unit’s Subedar Major, for disciplinary action.

An EME battalion receives technical grants for maintenance and repair of vehicles and equipment, including IT hardware and paraphernalia.

During the COI, it was brought out that bookings for equipment and work amounting to about Rs 40 lakh had been made by the Colonel against this grant while similar books

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CHANDIGARH, AUG 10 (AGENCIES): Two Army officers are facing a summary general court martial (SGCM) for alleged financial misappropriation of over Rs 58 lakh while posted with an Electronics and Mechanical Engineers’ (EME) battalion in the northern sector.

One of the accused officers, a Colonel, was the battalion’s commanding officer while the other, a Lieutenant Colonel, was commanding one of the battalion’s field workshop.

A joint trial, presided

by Brig RD Sharma, Commander of an Armoured Brigade, has been convened, which is scheduled to commence at Akhnoor on August 11, according to sources.

The irregularities came to light during the handing

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7

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2020

Russia all set to launch SL new Parl session to commence on Aug 20 ‘world’s first COVID-19 vaccine’ lines such as washing of hands and social distancing would be practiced.

“Public galleries won’t be opened and no visitors will be allowed,” Fernando said.

The seating arrangement of the lawmakers will be made according to the seniority of positions they held in the government and the seniority in

the number of years as a parliamentarian, Fernando said.

However, on the first day there will be no such reservations and lawmakers can sit anywhere.

Sri Lanka was one of the very few Asian countries apart from Singapore to hold general elections in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Ex PM Wickremesinghe to resign from UNP leadership after party’s crushing defeat

A view of Sri Lanka Parliament Session. (File)

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his younger brother and President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, registered a landslide victory in the August 5 general election, securing two-thirds majority in the 225-member Parliament.

The SLPP government has 150 members in the House and the combined Opposition strength is limited to 75.

Mahinda Rajapaksa was sworn in on Sunday as Sri Lanka’s new prime minister.

“We will have strict

health guidelines set in place for all parliamentary sessions,” Narendra Fernando, Sergeant-at-arms of Parliament, said.

The new Parliament session is scheduled on August 20, he said.

“There is no one-metre gap between the seats within the Parliament’s chamber. So it is difficult to maintain the one-meter social distancing rule. All members of Parliament are advised to wear face masks when they address the chamber,” he said.

Other health guide-

Lebanon’s Cabinet resigns over Beirut blast amid public fury Beirut, Aug 10 (AP): Lebanon’s government resigned Monday amid widespread public fury at the country’s ruling elite over last week’s devastating explosion in Beirut.

The move risks opening the way to dragged-out negotiations over a new Cabinet amid urgent calls for reform.

Prime Minster Hassan Diab headed to the presidential palace to submit the Cabinet’s group resignation, said Health Minister Hamad Hassan.

It follows a weekend of anti-government protests in the wake of the August 4 explosion in Beirut’s port that caused widestpread destruction, killed at least 160 people and injured about 6,000 others.

The moment typified Lebanon’s political dilemma. Since October, there have been mass demonstrations demanding the departure of the entire sectarian-based leadership over entrenched corruption, incompetence and mismanagement.

But the ruling oligarchy has held onto power for so long — since the end of the civil war in 1990 — that it is difficult to find a credible political figure not tainted by connections to them.

Hamad Hassan

Although Diab’s resignation had appeared inevitable after the catastrophe, he seemed unwilling to leave and only two days ago made a televised speech in which he offered to stay on for two months to allow for various factions to agree on a roadmap for reforms.

But the pressure from within his own Cabinet proved to be too much.

Diab’s government was formed after his predecessor, Saad Hariri, stepped down in October in response to the demonstrations.

It took months of bickering among the leadership factions before they settled on Diab. His government, which was supported by Hezbollah and its allies and seen as one-sided, was basically doomed from the start, tasked with meeting demands for reform but made up of all the factions that reformers want out.

His government was basically doomed from the start, tasked with meeting demands for reform but made up of all the factions that reformers want out.

Now the process must start again, with Diab’s government in a caretaker role as the same factions debate a new one.

“I hope that the caretaking period will not be long because the country cannot take that. Lets hope a new government will be formed quickly,” Public Works Minister Michel Najjar told reporters.

“An effective government is the least we need to get out of this crisis.”

The weekend protests saw clashes with security forces firing tear gas at protesters.

The explosion is believed to have been caused by a fire that ignited a 2,750ton stockpile of highly volatile ammonium nitrate.

The material had been stored at the port since 2013 with few safeguards despite numerous warnings of the danger.

The result was a disaster Lebanese blame squarely on their leadership’s corruption and neglect. Losses from the catastrophic blast are estimated to be between USD 10 billion to USD 15 billion, with nearly 300,000 people left homeless.

5 killed, 20 injured in Pakistan blast ISLAMABAD, AUG 10 (PTI): A powerful bomb targeting an anti-drug force on Monday ripped through a market in a restive Pakistani town bordering Afghanistan, killing at least five people and injured 20 others.

The blast occurred at the Haji Nida market of Chaman town in the volatile Balochistan province, according to police.

At least five people were killed and 20 were injured in the blast, Dawn newspaper quoted Assistant Commissioner Zakaullah Durrani as saying.

The wounded have been shifted to the Civil Hospital.

According to police inspector Muhammad Mohsin, unidentified miscreants had planted an improvised explosive device in a motorbike that was parked on the roadside.

Durrani said that the explosion targetted a vehicle of the Anti-Narcotics Force.

Window panes of several shops and houses in the vicinity were shattered due to the impact of the explosion.

Prime Minister Imran Khan, in a statement posted on the PM Office’s Twitter account, condemned the incident and expressed grief for the lives lost.

Indonesia’s Mount Sinabung volcano erupts J A K A RT A , AU G 1 0 (IANS): Mount Sinabung in Indonesia’s North Sumatra province erupted on Monday, spewing a 5,000 metre-high column of ash to the sky.

The 2,475 metre-high Mt. Sinabung is under an alert status, a local volcanology agency was quoted as saying by the Xinhua news agency.

In case of rains of ash, locals were expected to wear face masks outdoors to reduce health impacts, the agency said in a statement, adding that residents were also expected to keep unpolluted water and clean up their house roofs from thick volcanic ash to avoid possible collapses.

The agency also called on people who live by rivers whose upstream in the volcano to remain cautious of possible hot and cool lava K Y M C

election losses.

His decision followed the crushing defeat of his party at Wednesday’s parliamentary election won by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa-led Sri Lanka People’s Party (SLPP).

The SLPP registered a landslide victory in the August 5 general election, securing a two-thirds majority in the 225-member Parliament.

The SLPP government has 150 members in the House and the combined Opposition strength is limited to 75.

The UNP, the oldest party in the country, was reduced to fourth place nationally with less than 3 per cent of the vote.

ISLAMABAD, AUG 10 (PTI): Pakistan’s aviation regulator has issued showcause notices to 193 pilots suspected of having “dubious” flying licence after completing the scrutiny process of 262 pilots in the wake of a major scandal, according to a media report on Monday.

The scandal over pilot licences in Pakistan emerged from an investigation into the crash of a Pakistan International Airlines plane on May 22 in Karachi that killed 97 people. The inquiry determined that nearly onethird of Pakistan’s pilots cheated on exams but still received licences from the country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The CAA was tasked by the Supreme Court on July 21 to immediately complete an inquiry against pilots of the national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), following revelation by the aviation minister about fake documents of scores of pilots.

The CAA after completing the scrutiny process of the record of 262 pilots issued show-cause notices to 193 of them, the Dawn News reported.

The CAA inquiry board found 850 pilots with suspected credentials out of which 262 licences were found “dubious”. The board had grounded all the 262 pilots, while the federal Cabinet had approved cancellation of the licences of 28 pilots out of these 262, the report said, quoting sources.

Of the 193 pilots, who were issued show-cause notices, 140 have submitted their replies and they are

being called in batches by the inquiry committee to explain their positions.

A senior official said notices to the remaining pilots could not be sent because there were “technical mistakes” in the names of some pilots and their registration or reference numbers, which are being resolved.

A five-member committee constituted by the Aviation Division to investigate the pilots’ cases has been scrutinising the credentials of pilots.

The Aviation Division has referred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) the cases against five CAA officials, who had been suspended for their alleged involvement in issuing dubious licences.

It has also sought FIA’s help against the CAA’s information technology experts involved in the examination scam.

The scandal prompted the US in July to downgrade the safety rating of Pakistan’s aviation system and block the country’s airlines from launching air services to America.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it put Pakistan in category-2 rating, which means airlines from Pakistan can’t start new flights to the US. Also, US airlines can’t sell seats on Pakistani flights, a practice called code-sharing that is common among other international airlines.

Currently there are no regular scheduled flights between the US and Pakistan.

The European Union last month also banned PIA from flying to Europe for at least six months.

OFFICE OF THE

LONGCHARI PHAJA (CLAN) UNION KOHIMA : NAGALAND

Mount Sinabung spews volcanic materials into the air as it erupts, in Karo, North Sumatra, Indonesia, Monday, Aug. 10. (AP/PTI)

flowing to the rivers.

Mt. Sinabung erupted for the first time on Saturday, when the volcano spewed a column of volcanic ash up

to two km high.

Sixteen people were killed and thousands of others were forced to flee home when it erupted in 2014.

Sinabung is one of the 129 active volcanoes in Indonesia, a vast-archipelagic nation home to over 17,500 islands.

date is an adenovirus-based viral vector vaccine which is combined with the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to induce an immune response in the body. Addressing speculations about the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, Alexander Gintsburg, director of the Gamaleya National Research Centre maintained that the coronavirus particles in the vaccine cannot harm the body as they cannot multiply.

According to Sputnik News Agency, Alexander Gintsburg said, “The particles and objects that can reproduce their own kind are the ones that are considered alive. The particles in question cannot multiply.

While the Russian vaccine was given the goahead by Russia’s sanitary watchdog ‘Anna Popova’, experts are questioning the fast track approach in the

development of the vaccine.

Alexander Chepurnov who is the former head of infectious diseases at Vektor was sceptical about the data provided by the Russian government. He said, “The danger is there in terms of the possibility of increasing the disease‘s severity with the wrong vaccine.

Pointing out that there is always a scope of ‘infection intensifying’, he said, “With some diseases —and for the coronavirus, this is already known that the infection can intensify with the presence of certain antibodies. So it should be known which antibodies the vaccine forms.”

It should be noted that the World Health Organization has already sternly advised the Russian authorities to proceed as per the already established guidelines to produce a safe and effective coronavirus vaccine.

Pak’s aviation regulator issues Turkey becomes 3rd country to show cause notices to 193 pilots develop COVID vaccines: Prez

With immense pride and honour, the Longchari Phaja (Clan) Union Kohima extends our heartiest congratulations to Mr. RICHARD YANTHAN (LIMATOSHI) S/O LATE CHENITHUNG JAMES YANTHAN & MRS. SHILOMENLA LONGCHARI for having been successfully selected into the IAS, the prime service in India in the recently declared UPSC results.

The CLAN wishes him more success and GOD’s guidance in his future endeavours.

Sd/(TEKAMEDANG LONGCHARI) (TIATEMJEN LONGCHARI) President Secretary

K-1295

COLOMBO, AUG 10 (PTI): Sri Lanka’s new Parliament will meet for the first time on August 20 with strict COVID-19 health protocols and no visitors will be allowed, a senior official said on Monday.

Sri Lanka, one of the very few countries in Asia to hold a General Election amidst the pandemic, has reported 2,844 coronavirus cases, including 2,579 recoveries and 11 fatalities.

The Sri Lanka People’s Party (SLPP) led by

Sri Lanka’s four-time former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Monday decided to resign from the United National Party (UNP) leadership after 26 years at the helm following the party’s crushing defeat in the August 5 election.

The party general secretary Akila Viraj Kariyawasam told reporters that Wickremesinghe, 70, has decided to step down.

Kariyawasam named himself and 3 others as possible contenders to the post. Wickremesinghe has been leading the party since December 1994.

During his 26-year tenure, Wickremesinghe was blamed for repeated

M O S C OW, AU G 1 0 (AGENCIES): As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise at an alarming rate across the globe, scientists and medical experts are making accelerated efforts to develop a vaccine fit for human use. Currently, there are more than 160 vaccine candidates in different stages of production and 27 of these have reached the human trials. While the vaccine created by Oxford University and drugmaker AstraZeneca is considered one of the frontrunners in the race to develop a coronavirus jab, Russia is all set to become the first country in the world to launch its coronavirus vaccine.

The vaccine candidate developed by Russia’s Gamaleya National Research Centre and Russian defence ministry has been raising eyebrows ever since the announcement of it being the ‘world’s first COVID19 vaccine’ started doing rounds. As per the recent updates, the coronavirus vaccine is all set to get registered on August 12, 2020, making Russia the first country in the world to register a vaccine to battle the novel coronavirus.

Russia’s vaccine candi-

ANKARA, AUG 10 (IANS): Turkey has become the third country to develop vaccines locally against COVID-19 after the US and China, claimed President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. “The COVID-19 Turkey Platform, founded by the TUBITAK (the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey,) is currently working on eight different vaccines and 10 different medication projects,” Erdogan said at the opening ceremony of the TUBITAK Excellence Centers in the northwestern province of Kocaeli.

“Collaborating with state and private sectors and universities, Turkey has been making significant progress in developing vaccines and drugs against COVID-19,” he was quoted as saying by the Xinhua news agency. Erdogan noted that two vaccine candidates have successfully completed the animal tests, and one of them has received ethical approval to move on to the clinical trial on humans.

OFFICE OF THE

SHENA NEW STUDENTS' UNION Zunheboto – 798620 : Nagaland “Unity is Strength”

FELICITATION

We the Shena New Students' Union take immense pleasure in congratulating Miss Anjali Achumi, D/O Tohokhu Achumi for securing 92% marks in Class 12 Science CBSE Examination 2020 from Amity International School, Saket, Delhi.

The Union wishes her the best in all her future endeavours.

Toiho Achumi Kumsuto Achumi President General Secretary K-1294

FELICITATION

The Reverend Pastor, Staff and Believers of Lakhuti Baptist Church convey our heartiest congratulations to Er. Richard Yanthan, S/o Lt. James Chenithung Yanthan & Mrs. Shilomenla Longchar on securing 133rd Rank (IAS) in the Civil Services Exam 2019 and bringing laurels to our Village and for the Nagas in general. Indeed, your hard work and determination is paid off and it became a ray of hope for our Naga aspirants.

Our Almighty God ‘who has led us thus far’ heard and answered to our humble and fervent prayers and today, we testify that it is a fruit of Centenary Jubilee Celebration.

To Him be praised.

As you take the road in serving humanity may God grant you longevity of life, a loving heart to lift up our generation and wisdom to lead people with truth and justice. Our prayers are with you.

We are immensely joyful and stand proud in your prestigious achievement.

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Sd/Rev. Ezanbemo Odyuo, Pastor Lakhuti Baptist Church K Y M C

8

sports

Ferro wins Palermo Ladies Open

Palermo, Aug 10 (Agencies): France’s Fiona Ferro became the first WTA champion in five months on Sunday as she overpowered Anett Kontaveit 6-2 7-5 to win the Palermo Ladies Open, the first Tour event to be staged since the COVID19 epidemic shut down the sport.

Ferro went 10 matches unbeaten in regional exhibition events after the Tour was suspended in March, and continued to gather further momentum with five more wins in Palermo this week as major tennis returned in the Sicilian capital.

“I think it was my best match of the week,” the 23-year-old Ferro said after landing the second title of her career with a dominant display. “I was feeling relaxed... I don’t know why because it was a final! I wasn’t really feeling pressure.”

Several exhibition events have taken place globally since the sport was halted in early March due to the pandemic but the

Fiona Ferro with the trophy after defeating Anett Kontaveit in the Palermo Ladies Open final in Palermo, Italy.

women’s claycourt tournament in Palermo was the first across both the elite WTA and ATP tours in five months.

T h e r e we r e s t r i c t health protocols, including limited number of fans and no handshakes between players after the match.

Players and officials underwent COVID-19 tests every four days and one

player who tested positive pulled out of the tournament last weekend.

“I had a good intensity throughout the whole match, I didn’t miss a lot, made a lot of winners, so I’m really happy to have the trophy with me,” said the Belgian-born Ferro.

She struck 51 winners and broke Kontaveit’s serve five times in a clinical

display as she clinched the title on her second match point.

The result ensures Ferro will make her world top-50 debut at number 44 when the latest WTA rankings are released on Monday.

Estonia’s Kontaveit, ranked 22nd, has now lost five of the six finals she has contested.

BCCI gets govt approval for IPL in UAE New Delhi, Aug 10 (PTI): The BCCI has received the central government’s formal approval to conduct this year’s Indian Premier League in the UAE, IPL Chairman Brijesh Patel revealed on Monday.

The IPL will be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10 in three cities -- Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The government had last week given an “in principle” go-ahead to the BCCI to shift the marquee league to the UAE due to rising cases of COVID-19 in the country.

“Yes, we have received all the written approvals,” Patel told PTI when asked whether the permission has come in writing from both the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

When an Indian sports body shifts a domestic tournament abroad, it requires clearance from Home, External and sports ministries respectively.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2020

Starc reaches settlement in $1.53 million IPL pay-out fight Sydney, Aug 10 (IANS): Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has reached an in-principle insurance settlement in his $1.53 million fight for missing out on the 2018 Indian Premier League through injury.

The settlement came on Monday, just two days before the case was due to be heard in the Victorian County Court, according to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald.

The report also said that Starc’s terms of the agreement, including a financial settlement, were not yet released but are due to be filed within days.

In April last year, Starc had filed a lawsuit against the insurers of his contract to represent the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. Recently, Starc had said he harbours no regret regarding his decision to pull out of IPL 2020. Starc, last year, opted against throwing his hat into the auction in order to keep himself fresh and prepare for the T20 World Cup. However, due to the

Mitchell Starc

COVID-19 pandemic, the showpiece event in Australia got postponed.

Starc stated he will prepare for the busy Australian summer when his teammates will take part in the cash-rich league.

“I know hindsight is a wonderful thing and now the IPL is on at a different time but no, I wouldn’t

change it,” said Starc.

“I’m happy to spend that time when the blokes are at the IPL in September, I’ll be getting ready for a summer. The IPL will be around next year and if I feel the urge or people want me around I’ll definitely consider it, but as of this year I’m very comfortable with the decisions,” he added.

Simona Halep undecided on US Open Willian confirms Chelsea exit as he nears Arsenal move Bucharest, Aug 10 (Agencies): Reigning Wimbledon champion Simona Halep said she had not yet decided whether to play at the US Open but added she dreaded “tough conditions” posed by the journey.

“I haven’t made the final decision yet,” said the 28-year-old Romanian, who will be playing a WTA tournament on a clay court in Prague next week.

“The travelling from Europe is a little bit tough with changing flights we don’t have straight flights so it’s going to be tough for me personally, mentally,” she told a video conference.

“I don’t want to put myself into that stress. As I said I haven’t decided yet, but the conditions are tough for me at this moment.”

World number one Ashleigh Barty has said she is skipping the US Open amid the virus spread, just like Kiki Bertens, Elina Svitolina or Rafael Nadal.

Halep, who pulled out of the first post-lockdown WTA tournament in Pal-

Simona Halep

ermo this week over virus concerns, is now in Prague as the top seed. “I’m a bit nervous but things are very controlled here and very safe so I feel safe,” said Halep.

The organisers of the Prague tournament put all players and staff in a single eight-storey hotel booked for the occasion to reduce the risk of COVID-19 contagion. Regular temperature checks are a must, just like face masks which the players have to wear unless they are playing, training or eating.

Despite the tough measures, Halep relished the return to tennis. “I’m happy to be back, I’m happy to be healthy,” said Halep.

“It’s a bit weird after so many months to play a tournament, I’m a bit nervous... but I feel ready,” added Halep, who is facing Slovenian world number 45 Polona Hercog in the first round in the Czech capital.

Untypically, Halep has also signed up for the doubles competition together with local veteran Barbora Strycova, the world number two for doubles. “I play with the Wimbledon champion so I’m very nervous about that,” said Halep.

“But I’m sure we will have fun. I’m sure that she will understand if I miss easy balls at the net, and I hope we’ll enjoy it”.

L o n d o n, Au g 1 0 (Agencies): Willian has confirmed he is leaving Chelsea, with Arsenal close to completing his signing on a three-year deal.

The 32-year-old leaves Stamford Bridge at the end of his contract after a seven-year spell, with Chelsea only willing to offer him a two-year deal rather than the player’s desired three years.

He wrote an open letter to fans confirming his exit following Chelsea’s defeat to Bayern in the last 16 of the Champions League.

“They were seven wonderful years. In August 2013 when I received the offer from Chelsea, I was convinced that this was where I had to play,” he wrote.

“Today I am certain that it was the best of decisions. There were so many happy times, some sad, there were trophies and it was always very intense.

Yet, beyond the trophies, I learnt a lot about myself. I developed a great deal, be-

Willian

coming a better player and a better person...”

“I am really grateful to the Chelsea fans for the affectionate way they welcomed me at Stamford Bridge and their support throughout my time at the club...The time has now come to move on. I am certainly going to miss my team-mates. I will miss all

Blazers beat 76ers to keep playoff hopes alive Portland, Aug 10 (Agencies): Damian Lillard went off for 51 points as the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Philadelphia 76ers to put pressure on amid the fight for a playoff spot in the West.

Lillard poured in 51 points and added seven assists to lead Portland to a 124-121 victory over a Philadelphia side that lost Joel Embiid to injury on Sunday night.

Portland moved within a half-game of the eighthplaced Memphis Grizzlies in the Western Conference race, sitting a half-game ahead of the San Antonio Spurs and one in front of the Phoenix Suns.

Josh Richardson scored a season-best 34 points and matched a season high of six three-pointers for the 76ers, while Embiid was one of six shooting with four rebounds before exiting with an ankle injury with 6:18 to play in the first quarter.

Alec Burks scored 20 points off the bench for Philadelphia, who played without Ben Simmons (knee). Tobias Harris added 16 points, Al Horford tallied 15 and Shake Milton had 11.

Lillard was 16 of 28 shooting while producing his fifth 50-point effort of

Portland Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard shoots next to Philadelphia 76ers’ Matisse Thybulle (left) during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game.

the season and 10th of his career. CJ McCollum scored 16 points, Jusuf Nurkic added 15 and Mario Hezonja had 12.

Carmelo Anthony recorded 20 points alongside seven rebounds to move into 15th place in NBA history with 26,411 career points,passing Paul Pierce (26,397) and John Havlicek (26,395).

Portland connected on 47.3 percent of their shots, including 11 of 35 from behind the arc, while the 76ers shot 48.5 percent

from the field and 14 of 30 from deep.

Houston Rockets 129 – 112 Sacramento Kings: Austin Rivers scored 41 points off the bench, James Harden tallied 32 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, and Houston roared back from a sluggish start to top Sacramento.

The Rockets (44-25) improved to 4-1 in the restart while the Kings (2941) were eliminated from playoff contention when the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Philadelphia 76ers

earlier Sunday.

Houston played a second consecutive game without guard Russell Westbrook (right quad contusion), although Westbrook and guard Eric Gordon (left ankle sprain) are nearing a return. Rivers helped compensate for their absences with his career high scoring, including 19 points on 7-of-8 shooting prior to the intermission to help the Rockets erase an early 13-point deficit.

Boston Celtics 122 – 119 Orlando Magic (OT):

Gordon Hayward scored 31 points and Jayson Tatum added 29 to lift Boston past Orlando in overtime.

Jaylen Brown collected 19 points and 12 rebounds for the third-place Celtics (47-23), who saw their slim chances to secure the second seed in the Eastern Conference go by the boards earlier on Sunday when Toronto wrapped up the No. 2 seed with a win over Memphis.

Nikola Vucevic had 26 points and 11 rebounds and Terrence Ross added 18 points off the bench for the reeling Magic (32-39), who have dropped four in a row.

Oklahoma City Thunder 121 – 103 Washington Wizards: Darius Bazley scored a career-high 23 points to lead Oklahoma City past Washington, pulling ahead of Utah for fifth in the Western Conference in the process.

For the second consecutive game, the Thunder jumped out to a big lead early. But unlike Friday’s game against Memphis, where an 18-point firstquarter lead turned into a 29-point blowout loss, this time Oklahoma City was able to keep control to remain in the thick of the race for a top-four spot in the Western Conference.

the staff at the club who’ve always treated me like a son and I will miss the fans.”

“I leave with my head held high, safe in the knowledge that I won things here and always did my best in a Chelsea shirt! My heartfelt thanks go out to all of you and God bless you!”

Meanwhile, Arsenal moved into pole position

to sign the Brazil international by offering a threeyear contract earlier this week, and are on the verge of beating off competition from Barcelona and Inter Miami.

Along with the length of the deal, joining Mikel Arteta’s rejuvenated side and the chance to work with fellow Brazilian Edu

are the reasons Arsenal are favourites to secure Willian’s signature.

Chelsea head coach Frank Lampard has insisted he will have no hard feelings if Willian leaves the club.

“It actually doesn’t matter about disappointment from any party in this situation,” said Lampard, ahead of Chelsea’s Champions League tie against Bayern Munich on Saturday.

“I haven’t got an answer for you (if Willian will leave) first and foremost, because Willian remains our player at the moment.

In terms of being disappointed, certainly as a club I think we have done everything we can to explain to Willian, and mine and his relationship is really close.”

Willian made 47 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions and finished the season in fine form, with four Premier League goals after the restart taking his tally for the season to nine.

Kohli, Rohit and Dhoni most popular cricketers globally: study

Virat Kohli

Rohit Sharma

MS Dhoni

New Delhi, Aug 10 (IANS): India skipper Virat Kohli’s popularity knows no bounds and once again it has been re-affirmed by a study which has revealed that the 31-year-old is the most popular cricketer in the world. Meanwhile, ‘The Men in Blue’ also topped the chart as far as most popular cricket team in the world is concerned.

According to a SEMr ush study, Kohli was searched online an average of 16.2 lakh per month from January to June this year while the Indian cricket team was searched an average of 2.4 lakh times per month in the same time period.

Other cricketers among the top-10, as per

the study, were Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, George Mackay, Josh Richards, Hardik Pandya, Sachin Tendulkar, Chris Matthews and Shreyas Iyer. From January to June 2020, each cricketer, respectively, was searched an average of 9.7, 9.4, 9.1, 7.1, 6.7, 5.4, 4.1, and 3.4 lakh times.

With respect to the cricket teams, India led the chart followed by England, Australia, West Indies, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Afghanistan, and Zimbabwe.

Each cricket team, respectively, was searched .66, .33, .29, .23, .16, .12, .12, .09, .05, .04, and .03 lakh times per month.

In addition, cricket

followers across the globe were captivated by women cricketers as well. Despite not being in the top-10, Smriti Mandhana and Ellyse Perry, were searched 12th and 20th most times, topping big names like Yuvraj Singh and Shikhar Dhawan.

“While we are not entirely surprised by the results of our study, we are excited nonetheless.

Finding that Virat Kohli is the most searched cricketer, and India, the most searched cricket team is unsurprising, what’s surprising is that women cricketers are being searched more often than a lot of top-rated men,” Fernando Angulo, Head of Communications, SEMrush SEMrush said.

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