Jan 6 2023

Nagaland Post

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DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN):

In a major development, which has the potential of complicating the fate of the Naga political issue vis-àvis solution, the Khangoled NSCN (K) faction was plunged into a serious crisis when an emergency meeting of the council of kilonsers, tatars, secretariat staff, army officers party functionaries condemned the faction’s president ‘lt.gen’Khango Konyak for his “unconstitutional and highhanded act” of impeaching the ato kilonser and general secretary ‘col’(retd) Isak Sumi.

It may be mentioned that ‘Col’(retd) Isak Sumi is the representative of the faction as co-convenor of WC,NNPGs during various negotiations with the government of India.

Khango had earlier also “expelled” Isak Sumi, but the two leaders later reconciled and signed “deed of reconciliation” on September 20, 2020 following the intervention of WC NNPGs and civil society leaders.

In the latest impeachment ahza, Khango said Isak was found guilty of “grabbing absolute control of powers and functions without the concern of collective leadership, non-distribution of powers and fucntions, nepotism and exposing self style one man government policy”, which were described as “completely in violation of the Yezahbo and discipline.”

Khango had discharged Isak and removed all his power and duties with effect from January 4, 2023

VVIP visit: Dimapur police impose restrictions

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN): In view of the VVIP visit to Chumoukedima, on January 6, 2023, the Dimapur police have imposed certain restrictions from 6am to 9pm of January 6, 2023 within Dimapur and Chumoukedima districts due to security concern.

In an order, commissioner of police Dimapur Kevithuto Sophi ordered ban on use of any kind of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) like drones etc.

Police have also banned conduct of any kind of firing practice by security forces/ civil police/ central police/ private firing range or any civilian holder of licensed fire arms. Further, bursting of any kind of firecrackers has been banned.

This is it!

President Khango Konyak impeaches Ato Kilonser Isak Sumi

Emergency meeting condemns ‘unconstitutional’ act of President

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN):

Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) along with all its frontal organizations (WSKH, WSYF, WSSU, WSTH, WSSA, SOUD) have resolved to “impose indefinite non-cooperation to NSCN(Khango) faction”.

This was contained in a joint statement issued by the leaders of WSH, WSKH, WSYF, WSSU, WSTH, WSSA and SOUD which was adopted at an emergency meeting held at the WSH Hiyam, Chekiye village on January 5, 2023.

intention to defuse and pacify the volatile situation at around 10:45pm on January 4, 2023. However, the signatories said the commander and his cadres loaded their guns and pointed them at the WSH president and his team by “threatening with dire consequences, using abusive words” without ascertaining the intention of the Hoho.

Reporter

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN):

Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) president K Therie has reminded BJP, both at the Centre and the State, to keep the commitment of “Election for Solution” made to Nagas during 2018 Assembly election campaign.

litical parties and people of Nagaland to be realistic and practical in their demands.

He said there was a perception that the visits would determine whether there would be Assembly election or President’s rule would be imposed to implement the political solution.

chief minister Neiphiu Rio had any resolve to secure political solution, he should also submit his resignation and then request the Central government to implement the political solution.

“You’ll realise that whatever is being said today, it is easier to defer solution than election.”

and also cease to be a member of NSCN/GPRN-K and that “the organisation shall not be responsible for any of his actions hereafter.”

‘Null and void’

Following the impeachment, a joint emergency meeting was convened with “overwhelming quorum” of the council of kiloners led by home kilonser; tatar hoho led by speaker and with more than two thirds of the “government” and party functionaries who resolved to declare the impeachment order of the president “null and void immediately.”

The house noted that the president had issued impeachment of ato kilonser on January 4, 2023 without obtaining the approval and recommendation of the council of kilonsers or the tatar hoho and also without acquiring two thirds majority of the party workers at

the “behest of few rogue elements.” The joint meeting warned that in the event of the failure on the part of the president to nullify the impeachment order, the house “unanimously” resolved to impeach the president with immediate effect.

WC, NNPGs back Isak

WC, NNPGs led by its convener N Kitovi Zhimomi also held an emergency meeting where it has resolved that NSCN/GPRNK president Khango Konyak “must immediately revoke his unilateral, arbitrary and unconstitutional order”. Kitovi also warned that failing to do so will result in Kahnago having “ no space in the WC, NNPGs.”

The committee also resolved that Isak Sumi continues to be the “legitimate and mandated” co-convenor of the WC, NNPGs and “therefore even if Isak is alone we will stand by him.”

The signatories explained that when WSH was informed about the “sudden imbroglio development” within the NSCN (Khango) faction, WSH president along with colleagues, WSYF, general secretary NGBF and GBs of Thilixu village rushed to the Ceasefire monitoring office at Thilixu village with the

WSH and its frontal organisations concluded that such an act cannot be tolerated at any cost, as neither the “sanctity of WSH, its frontal organizations and the GBs can be compromised.” The meeting therefore, resolved to “impose indefinite non-cooperation to NSCN(Khango) faction within the jurisdiction of Western Sumi area which comprises of Dimapur, Niuland and Chumoukedima district with effect from January 6, 2023.

Therie said this while addressing a press conference at Congress Bhavan here on Thursday noon. He said it was time for the State BJP to demand settlement and implementation of political solution and also warned that BJP along with UDA would be termed as “liars and traitors” if they failed in this regard.

With the visits of Union Home Minster Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled, Therie called upon all po-

Therie also called on all the legislators to submit their resignations to Shah, if there was any sincerity on their part, and then ask him(Shah) to implement the political solution since Nagas wanted nothing more or less.

He also reminded that the term of the 13th Nagaland Legislative Assembly ended on March 12, after which it would not be able to pass the budget, with the exception of having a session to just complete the constitutional process.

He pointed out that if

“If there is an iota of honesty on their part, this is the time they should demand President’srule, defer election and only implement the political solution,” he maintained . Therie also insisted that this should be the stand of the State government. He opined that the Centre could have taken the decision long time back, but for the “hand in glove” relationship between Rio and Muivah, as claimed by Shah. Therie said Shah had instructed Rio to convince Muivah to agree for a final settlement but alleged that both Rio and Muivah were not in favour of it.

WC,NNPGs vent ire at ‘anti-solution stance’ of state BJP

WARNS BJP OF SIMILAR FATE AS CONGRESS IN 1998 FOR OPPOSING ‘SOLUTION NOT ELECTION’

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN):

In a sharp attack on Nagaland state BJP leadership, Working Committee (WC), Naga national Political Groups (NNPGs) Thursday claimed that the “anti solution stance” of state BJP president Temjen Imna Along and “his cohorts have greatly hampered the progress and fruition of the Naga political talks.”

WC, NNPGs media cell stated that while the BJP government at the centre was “trying its best” to find permanent peace in Nagaland through negoti-

ated political settlement with Naga political groups, the state BJP leadership, on the other hand, was playing with fire. Media Cell stated that the WC, NNPGs on November 9, 2022 wrote an official letter addressed to the state BJP President for a meeting on crucial matters. However, it said till date, there has been no response despite the BJP chief being “still at large.”

Further WC even alleged that Along had failed not only the Nagas but also his own party. WC also described Along as “a man

13,17,632 voters in Nagaland: Final E-roll

devoid of any principle, an opportunist and morally bankrupt” who is also responsible for misleading the Naga people and betraying BJP leadership in New Delhi. WC, NNPGs vowed that it would “not allow such a man to represent the Nagas either at Kohima or in Delhi.” In attacking Along, WC drew parallel to 1998 when Congress party went against the wishes of the Naga people by going ahead with election instead of solution. It said when Congress party subsequently assumed power uncontested, it failed

to honour the people’s demand and instead, “believed they had wiped out all other regional political parties in Nagaland.”

WC said Nagas however responded by promptly showing Congress the exit door and adding that , the Congress party today “ is struggling to regain the confidence of the people.”

WC likewise said that Along, after assuming state BJP leadership, fiddled with Naga political issue and “played every dirty trick in the book to thwart the progress of Indo-Naga talks.”

Further WC alleged that the “treacherous habit” of State BJP chief has “deeply eroded the Naga People’s confidence. “ While describing itself as the messenger of the Naga people, WC, NNPGs said it has negotiated with the government of India in accordance with the desire and aspiration of the people.

It claimed to have identified and observed “numerous selfish anti-Naga solution individuals and groups” working day and night to sabotage Naga solution.

Major rift within Khango-led NSCN (K) RPP lauds outgoing DGP;justifies petition

KOHIMA, JAN 5 (NPN):

After having claimed that the Central government had agreed for a separate State of Frontier Nagaland, Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) said the meeting at Guwahati on Thursday remained inconclusive.

Speaking to Nagaland Post , a ENPO leader said the meeting with Central government representatives at Guwahati went on for about three hours and that talks with the Centre would resume again next week.

He claimed that both the parties – the Centre and ENPO – were putting all their efforts and wisdom to come to a logical conclusion on the issue at the earliest.

Frontier Nagaland talks team and ENPO officer-bearers and executives attended the meeting.

Sources told Nagaland Post that the central team at the meeting presented a blueprint to the ENPO delegation. The sources, however, remained tightlipped on the content of the blueprint.

(Cont’d on p-8)

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN): Nagaland has a total electorate of 13,17,632, as per the final electoral roll. In a press release, the chief electoral officer (CEO) Nagaland, V Shashank Shekhar, informed that the final electoral roll with reference to January 1, 2023 as the qualifying date has been prepared and published on January 5, 2023 by the respective electoral registration officer of all the districts in the state.

As per the final published roll, out of the total electorate, 661489 are male and 656143 are female.

The total electors include 1309651 general electors (653616 male and 656035 female) and 7981 service electors (7873 male and 108 female). The final electoral rolls can be checked/downloaded from the CEO Nagaland website at www.ceo. nagaland.gov.in

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN): Two days after Director General of Police (DGP) Nagaland, T John Longkumer put in his resignation papers, the Rising People’s Party (RPP) has lauded the outgoing DGP for “making the right move to shun away from unjust and corrupt practices.”

In a press release, RPP also “wholeheartedly” thanked John Longkumer for his diligent service to the people of Nagaland. The party has expressed hope that the next DGP would uphold the rule of law and not be persuaded or inclined by political pressures while performing duties for the welfare of the Naga people.

According to RPP, the party while upholding its principles of

More exodus to BJP in the offing before polls

good governance and rule of law has constantly been “highlighting/exposing various wrong doings” of the present government and garnering the support of the Naga public to “rectify such inequitable issues for the sake of a better Nagaland”

It said that one such issue was the “political manipulation” by the state government for the “illegal/irregular extension of the DGP Nagaland. The party said it had no other option but to approach the Union Ministries and the Supreme Court of India to avail justice. As such, RPP said the Nagaland Law Students’ Federation and its vice president Vitho Zao filed a petition in the Supreme Court.

The party acknowledged the role of the apex Court and the UPSC for the appreciable turn of events. RPP claimed that it wrote letter to the union government along with written proof saying that the move to retain the present DGP was “solely for political reasons” and in total contempt of service rules and regulations.

Stating that it was against “such blatant sly tactics” practised by the present leaders for unfair advantage, the party hoped that such acts would be condemned by all. RPP affirmed that the present government leaders have been appointed by the people for the benefit and progress of the Naga people and not for any individual’s unending rapacity.

NEW DELHI, JAN 5 (PTI): There has been a 74 per cent reduction in insurgency-related violence, 60 per cent reduction in attacks on security forces and 89 per cent decrease in civilian deaths in the Northeast, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy said on Thursday.

“There has been a 74 per cent reduction in insurgency incidents, 60 per cent reduction in incidents of attacks on security forces and 89 per cent reduction in civilian deaths in the Northeast,” he said.

The meeting appears to have caused a minor controversy since senior leaders of the state BJP revealed that the state unit leadership including BJP national general secretary in-charge of Nagaland, Nalin Kholi were not aware

of the meeting. There were several prominent politicians mainly from NDPP who also met with Rituraj which included a sitting NDPP legislator, former NPF legislator of

Sources clarified to

Addressing a press conference here, the Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) said about 8,000 youths, who were involved with insurgent groups, have surrendered and have joined the mainstream, welcoming a better future for themselves and their families.

Reddy said the development of the Northeast has been made a major priority by the central government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has visited the region more than 50 times in last eight years and 74 ministers have also visited the region over 400 times.

“The Northeast was previously known for unrest, bombings, bandhs etc

but in the last eight years, peace has been established under the leadership of Prime Minister,” he said. Further, the minister said, peace agreements were signed with insurgent outfits like the National Liberation Front of Tripura in 2019, the groups belonging to the Bru community and Bodos in 2020 and with groups of the Karbi community in 2021.

He said the AssamMeghalaya and AssamArunachal Pradesh border disputes have almost been resolved and with the restoration of peace, the Northeastern region has moved on the path of development.

Staff

Correspondent

GoI, ENPO meet inconclusive; talks to resume next week

Therie reminds BJP of its ‘Election for Solution’ commitment in 2018

WSH, frontal orgns declare ‘noncooperation’ to Khango group 74 per cent decrease in insurgency in Northeast: Reddy

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN): BJP secretary and co-incharge of north east Rituraj Sinha held a meeting with several prominent politicians from across political parties at Niathu Resorts here Thursday. Nagaland Rajya Sabha MP Phangnon Konyak and some state party functionaries were also present sources told Nagaland Post.

26 Aonglenden assembly constituency Toshipokba, a seniormost functionary of NDPP and former NDPP members who have resigned from the party.

Nagaland Post that those who met with Rituraj were on exploratory mission but were most likely to take the final call after announcement expected sometime in January 15,2023.

BJP Co-convenor in-charge NE , Rituraj seen with Phangnon MP and political leaders

Khango Konyak Isak Sumi

Water quality testing lab inaugurated at Jotsoma

and competence of the laboratories in years to come and help laboratories generate valid results and finally ensure that drinking water supplied in every household in rural/ urban Nagaland was safe for consumption.

He also mentioned the benefits of NABL for the people as an assurance of genuine reports from accurately calibrated testing, confidence in personal performance tests, elimination of the need for re-testing thereby saving money and time, satisfaction from the service provider, and better control of the laboratory operations and feedback.

H&FW bids farewell to outgoing officers

DIMAPUR: District water quality testing laboratory accredited by National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) was inaugurated by chairman DWSM and Deputy Commissioner, Shanavas C at PHED Water Treatment Plant, Phezhu, Jotsoma on

January 5.

According to DIPR report, at the inaugural programme, the DC highlighted the side effects and different chemicals present in the water which not only was harmful to users but for generations to come.

He also spoke about the benefits of the NABL

laboratory and said that other developed countries were cautious of what they drink and therefore urged the people to learn and implement it in their daily life.

Urban Division Kohima Lab. head and executive engineer, Er. Subongyanger stated that un-

der Jal Jeevan Mission all the Laboratories were to be NABL accredited and the infrastructure and processes of water testing laboratories should comply with NABL standards and protocols.

The accreditation will ensure a seamless improvement in terms of resources

PVHSS observes 37th foundation day

Binode Behari Chanda, as known as BB Chanda who is a senior most citizen of Dimapur among the Bengali Community and also a senior most Rotarian of RCD for his notable achievement for the Society.

The School also awarded “Pranab Jyoti Award” to all the toppers and State highest in various subjects of HSLC-2022 & HSSLC-2022(science and commerce).

Earlier, Vibou Seyie chaired the programme and invocation was offered by WATSAN chairman Vithato.

Dziesetseinuo Kiso, Quality Manager (Chemist) gave a brief introduction of the lab and technical report NABL Lab. while a vote of thanks was delivered by district coordinator, Ashale Seb.

NDPP 35 A/C deliberates on party activities

DIMAPUR: NDPP 35 A/C Zunheboto held an emergency meeting on January 5 to strengthen the party and its functioning.

DIMAPUR: Directorate of Health & Family Welfare (H&FW) organised a farewell programme in honour of three officers who have retired from the service on January 5.

A press release by IEC Bureau, directorate of Health and Family Welfare, stated that Dr. K. Vikato Kinimi retired as principal director, Dr. Thorhusie Katiry as director and Dr. Z. Kheshito Zhimo

as addl. director.

The programme was chaired by Dr. Vibeituonuo Mepfuo director (Health), scripture reading and prayer by Dr. Khelito joint director and a special song was presented by NHM.

Commissioner and secretary H&FW, Y. Kikheto Sema delivered a speech which was followed by citation and presentation by Dr. Temjentsungla, incoming principal director, DHFW

and speeches from the outgoing officers.

The outgoing officers in their farewell speech expressed gratitude to all officers and staff for their support rendered during their 35 years of service and encouraged all to continue to work together as one. They also thanked Almighty God for His help in their journey of serving the department. The programme concluded with a mass benediction.

DIMAPUR:

Office, Kolkata as the chief guest and Srimat Swami Gurupanandaji Maharaj, joint secretary of All India Hindu Milan Mandir Central Committee as the guest of honour.

The

The ceremony was graced by Param Pujyapada Srimat Swami Viswapremanandaji Maharaj, vice-president, BSS, Head

Srimat Swami Chinmayanandaji Maharaj, chairman, PVHSS and in-charge, BSS, Dimapur, Nagaland and Karbi-Anglong district of Assam

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

of our beloved father

LT. REV. IMNALEMBA JAMIR (LONGSA) Died : 06.01.2022 MKC-04/23

Dearest Oba, Days have passed and turned into a year, and yet it has been a year of extreme heartache for us whom you have left behind. Your absence has left irreparable pain, but we are trying to live every moment with your loving memories that nothing can erase. You are gone from our sight but never for a moment from our hearts. We miss you a little more each day, and will do until we meet again.

Loving wife, children, grandchildren and in-laws

After the formal programme, various cultural items were presented by the students of the Vidyapith. The programme came to an end with vote of thanks by the vice-principal, Ashok Kr. Roy.

At the meeting, various issues pertaining to party activities were tabled and deliberated wherein, the party workers reaffirmed to focus on the perpetual bond amongst the party workers. The meeting also highlighted the development activities undertaken under the leadership of advisor SE & SCERT K. Tokugha Sukhalu in the area.

We, the bereaved family of Late Kamala Jigdong, wife of Shri Bimal Kachari, Head GB Bamunpukhuri-1, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all individuals, families, organizations, Bamunpukhuri-1 Village Council, friends and well-wishers who stood by us spiritually, financially and physically during the prolonged illness and at the demise of our beloved mother who passed away on 26th December 2022. We sincerely convey our special thanks to each and every individual and pray to Almighty God to bless each one in abundance.

Shradha Ceremony (Funeral Feast) will be held on 7th January 2023 at 3:00 pm at our Residence at Bamunpukhuri-1.

Loving Husband, Children, In-Laws and Grandchildren

Pranab Vidyapith Higher Secondary (PVHSS), Dimapur managed by Bharat Sevashram Sangha (BSS), Dimapur observed its 39th foundation day on January 5 at Pranab Jubilee Auditorium.

Tuensang Battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) distributed solar lights at Chanju village, Mon on January 5.

also graced the occasion.

On the occasion, the “The School Annual Report” was presented by the principal of the School, Monoj Bhattacharjee.

school also honoured the centenarian,

DC Kohima, Shanavas C with other officials at the inaugural programme of the District Water Quality Testing Laboratory on Wednesday. (DIPR)

Outgoing officers and others at the farewell programme in Kohima on Wednesday. (DIPR)

Officials and others at the PVHSS 39th foundation day on Wednesday.

Notification for publication of final electoral roll

house) Tuensang.

At the programme, DC requested all the political parties to look forward for a clean and fair election. He urged the stakeholders to take responsibility during the SVEEP activities and sought cooperation and support for the successful conduct of the forthcoming election.

The DC also requested all the political parties to appoint Booth Level Agents to those who were yet to appoint.

DIMAPUR: Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and District Election Officers (DEOs), and Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADCs) and Electoral Registration Officer (EROs) have issued a notification to all the political parties in the state on the final publication of e-roll.

Kohima: In connection with the special summary revision of the photo electoral roll w.r.t. January 1, 2023 as the qualifying date, the final publication of the Roll was published on January 5 at DC’s Office Chamber, Kohima.

DC and DEO Kohima, Shanavas C in his introductory remark,

stated that the draft roll which was published on November 9, 2022 with total electors of 1, 22,459 in Kohima district, has now recorded a total addition of 2,519 and deletion of 1,297 with a net increase of 1,222 electors bringing the total final E-Roll Electors to 1,23,681 after the revision.

Shanavas also informed that a lot of photo similar entries have also been detected during the revision where Kohima alone has more than 9000 entries which were under process for necessary correction and further urged the political parties to take note of it and extend their full cooperation and support to the office of DC and DEO officer for

free and fair conduct of the election.

DC & DEO also handed over copies of the final roll (one hard copy and one soft copy) to the recognized representatives of the political parties at the programme.

DIMAPUR: The final publication of electoral roll for Dimapur district was held on January 5.

DC and DEO Dimapur Sachin Jaiswal handed a copy of the final roll to representatives of different political parties.

Mokokchung: DC and DEO Mokokchung has informed that the list of amendments to the draft electoral roll for the 21Tuli, 22- Arkakong, 23Impur, 24- Angetyongpang, 25-Mongoya,

26- Aonglenden, 27-Mokokchung Town, 28Koridang, 29- Jangpetkong and 30- Alongtaki assembly constituencies have been prepared with reference to 1-1-2023 as qualifying dates and in accordance with the Registration of Electors Rule, 1960. In this connection, DC informed that a copy of the said roll together with the said Rule of Amendments has been published and will be commenced available for inspection at the DC office.

Longleng: In connection with Special Summary Revision 2022, the final draft publication of electoral roll of 49 A/C Tamlu and 50 A/C Longleng under Longleng district was handed over

to the political parties by DC and DEO, Longleng, Dharam Raj at his office Chamber on January 5. Zunheboto: ADC and ERO Zunheboto has informed that the list of amendments to the final electoral roll for 31- Akuluto, 32-Atoizu, 33-Suruhuto, 34-Aghunato, 35-Zunheboto and 36- Satakha Assembly Constituencies have been prepared with reference to January 1, 2023 as the qualifying date and in accordance with the Registration of Electoral Rules, 1960.

A copy of the electoral roll together with the said list of amendments has been published and will be available for inspection

at the office of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Zunheboto.

Chumoukedima: The draft e-roll for 4 -Ghaspani-I and 5-Ghaspani-II Assembly Constituencies under Chumoukedima district have been issued to the all political parties by DC and DEO, Chumoukedima, Abhinav Shivam on January 5 at DC Conference Hall, Chumoukedima.

Tuensang: DC and DEO Tuensang, Nokchasashi has informed that the electoral rolls for all the polling stations of four Assembly Constituencies under Tuensang district have been published on January 5 at DC’s Conference Hall (Circuit

Further, DC notified that for public information that the list of amendments to the draft electoral roll for the 51-Noksen, 52- Longkhim-Chare, 53-Tuensang Sadar-I, and 54-Tuensang Sadar -II Assembly Constituencies has been prepared with reference to January 1, 2023 as the qualifying date and in accordance with the Registration of Electoral Rules, 1960.

A copy of the said roll together with the list of amendments has been published and available for inspection at his office. Representatives from different political parties attended the meeting and a copy has been handed to all the parties.

PYO celebrates Golden jubliee TASU 39th session commences

Correspondent KOHIMA, JAN 5(NPN): Porbami Youth Organization (PYO) celebrated its golden jubilee under the theme “Honouring our pastcreating our future” at local ground, Porba village in Phek district.

Former Rajya Sabha MP, KG Kenye graced the occasion as inaugural guest and paid tribute to the pioneers and leaders for their visionary leadership.

He reminded the gathering that youth days was the best part of life where everything was possible as they have the spirit and energetic to compete with any other beings.

Kenye also exhorted the youth to maintain discipline and moral

integrity and contribute to the development and progress of the society.

He also highlighted the need to rekindled the friendship relation between Porba village and Chizami village for posterity.

Further, he recalled the eminent personalities in the field of sports and especially Naga Wrestling and urged them to uphold the good social practices.

BDO Meluri, Kuhucuyi D Vadeo, guest of honour in his speech exhorted the youth choose the right path during their prime days to excel and achieve and compete with one another.

He advised the sportspersons to develop professionalism by choosing a particular sports discipline with mastery.

DC Mkg asks VCs to refrain from political activities

DIMAPUR: Deputy Commissioner Mokokchung in a circular has cautioned the village councils to refrain from any type of political activity such as announcement/ diktats in favour of the consensus candidates and/or against other candidates/voters.

DC in an order said that the notification has been issued in view of the forthcoming General Election to the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly and that some public organizations particularly village councils have been indulging in political activities by declaring their “consensus candidate” and issuing order/direction/diktats to “other intending candidates” to not contest

and/or hold any public meeting/programme relation to election campaign within village jurisdiction.

DC informed that every citizen of India has a statutory right to participate/contest election as per his/her own free will subject to the fulfilment of the requisite qualifications and therefore any attempt of force/coercion to subvert the free will of the citizens will be in violation of the rights guaranteed to the individuals by the constitution and subsequent statutes.

It therefore, warned that non-compliance will invite disciplinary action under the relevant section of the Nagaland Village Council Act 1978 and other statute.

Earlier, welcome address was delivered by chairman, Village Council, Porba, Kuve Puro, presidential address was delivered by president PYO, Vezato Dzüdo, greetings was shared by Vemüdo D Vadeo, president, Centre Chakhesang Sports Association (CCSA).

Special number was presented by Nüvesalü Sakhamo and ‘Boka Tha Li’ Porbami Youth Organisation, oath taking was administered by Krosanyi Thülü-o, games and sports secretary and the programme was led by Vetho Vadeo and Huvesu Puro delivered concluding remarks.

Earlier, the monolith was unveiled by special guest and the souvenir was released by Kühücüyi D Vadeo.

Cong constitutes screening committees

DIMAPUR: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has constituted Screening Committees for ensuing Assembly elections in Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura.

According to a press release by Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) communication department, for Nagaland, the committee will be headed by Mohan Prakash, with Sanjay Dutt and Sankar Malakar as members, while in charge Ajoy Kumar, state Congress president K Therie, and party national secretary Ranajit Mukherjee will be ex-officio members.

Zunheboto DPDB meeting

DIAMPUR: Deputy Commissioner Zunheboto in a notification informed all the concerned DPDB members that the monthly District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) meeting will be held on January 10 at 11 am in the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Zunheboto. All the board members have been requested to take note of the date and attend the meeting positively.

DIMAPUR: The 39th session of Tobu Area Students’ Union (TASU) sports meet-cum-federal assembly opening ceremony commenced on January 5 at Tamkoang village with advisor DUDA, N. Bongkhao Konyak as special guest.

In his speech, Bongkhao thanked TASU for their initiative to promote quality health and education in the sub-division and for rendering support and cooperation towards the administration and other developmental activities.

He reminded that he will be always open for any positive criticism and assured support for any initiative that involve development of the youths.

The advisor also claimed that government headed by chief minister, Neiphiu Rio and NDPP president, Chingwang Konyak were committed to bring changes in the area and therefore called upon the youth to realize the importance of good

governance, peace and development in the area.

A total of 14 federating units will be participating in the nine days event (January 5-13) during which

competitions on events such as Football, Volley ball, Sepaktakraw, Table Tennis, Athletics and Literary will be conducted.

Earlier, the programme

DC & DEO Kohima Shanavas C handing the final E-roll. DC & DEO Longleng handing the final Electoral Roll. DC & DEO Tuensang afert handing the final E-roll.

KG Kenye and others after unveiling the PYO golden jubilee monolith. (NP)

N. Bongkhao Konyak at the TASU 39th session on Wednesday.

was chaired by B. Bemang, Tamkoang Students’ Union and dedication of the playfield was offered byThramnyei, pastor Tamkoang Baptist Church.

BJP brought all-round development in Tripura: Shah

SABROOM (TRIPURA),

JAN 5 (PTI): Union

Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday asserted that the BJP-led government in Tripura has wiped out terrorism and brought allround development to the northeastern state.

Addressing a public rally here, Shah also said the immense love and faith shown by people towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi clearly indicate that BJP will again form government in Tripura.

“We have brought an end to terrorism in Tripura through peace talks with the NLFT (National Liberation Front of Tripura), and resettled internally displaced Brus in the state,” he said.

The home miniser is in Tripura to flag off two BJP rath yatras aimed at highlighting the state government’s achievements ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.

“The Tripura, which was once known for drug trafficking, violence and massive anti-national activities, is now known for development, excellent infrastructure, achievements in sports, rising investments and organic farming activities,” Shah said.

He said a target has

been fixed to provide 4.25 lakh piped water connections in the northeastern state and an investment of Rs 10,000 crore lined up for infrastructure building.

Shah exuded confidence that the saffron party will win the assembly elections with two-thirds majority, and appealed to the people to vote in favour of the ‘lotus’ for overall development of the state.

Recalling the 2018 assembly polls, the senior BJP leader said he had raised the slogan ‘Chalo Paltai’ (Let’s Bring Change) to bring an end to the “Communists’ misrule”.

“I am indebted to the people that they supported the slogan,” Shah said.

Chief Minister Manik Saha, Union Minister Pratima Bhoumik and Rajya Sabha MP Biplab Kumar Deb were among those present at the flagging off programme of the ‘Jana Viswas Yatra’.

A total of 100 rallies and roadshows will be organised across the state as part of the yatra, which will conclude on January 12.

Ram Mandir to be readybyJan1next year:Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday announced the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be ready by January 1, 2024, the year the Lok Sabha elections will

Thakur reviews preparation for Youth-20 Group meeting in Guwahati

be held.

This is being seen as an indication that Ram Mandir, a plank raked up by the saffron camp since 1990 when BJP leader L K Advani started out on a Rath Yatra to focus on the issue, may again be one of the cornerstones of BJP’s campaign in the next general election.

“Rahul baba, listen from Sabroom that a mammoth Ram Mandir will be ready on January 1, 2024,” he said attacking Congress leader Rahul Gandhi who is in the midst of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, a 3500 kilometres long march from Kanyakumari to Kashmir.

Secretary of Ram Mandir Trust Champat Rai and chief priest of Ram Janmabhoomi temple Acharya Satyendra Das had come out with separate statements appreciating Gandhi for the Bharat Jodo Yatra earlier this week.

Advani’s Rath Yatra was believed a major factor in the rise of the BJP in the 1990s which had been politically hit by both the advent of Rajiv Gandhi in 1984 and the Mandal Commission award in the late 1980s which saw regional parties espousing the cause of OBCs gaining

strength.

The Rath Yatra also saw the spawning of a movement calling for the destruction of the 16th-century Mosque in Ayodhya, which some believed was the site of a palace where Lord Ram was born. It culminated in the public destruction of the mosque by saffron brigade volunteers in December 1992.

Addressing a public rally at Sabroom in Tripura, where assembly polls are due early this year, Shah said that the Congress and Communists had put the Ram Mandir issue in the jurisdiction of the court for long, whereas Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for it after the Supreme Court’s order permitting construction.

The Congress and the CPI(M) are the main opposition parties in the BJP-ruled northeastern state and there are indications that the two will fight the assembly election together.

After decades-long legal battle, the Supreme Court on November 9, 2019, paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple in the disputed site at Ayodhya, where Babri Masjid was demolished on December 6, 1992.

Shah arrives in Imphal on two-day visit to Manipur

Correspondent

IMPHAL, JAN 5: Union home minister Amit Shah arrived in Imphal on Thursday evening on a twoday visit to Manipur.

The Union minister was earlier scheduled for a one-day visit on Friday. He, however, landed at Imphal Airport by a special flight from Agartala on Thursday evening.

A high level delegation led by chief minister N Biren Singh accorded Shah a warm welcome on his arrival at Imphal Airport.

Union minister of state for external affairs and education RK Ranjan, some ministers, MLAs of ruling parties and senior government and police officers were among others who received the visiting Union minister.

The state government hosted a cultural programme in Imphal’s City Convention Centre to welcome Shah.

On the second and last day of his visit, the Union home minister will inaugurate and lay foundation stones of several projects in the state before leaving for Kohima (Nagaland).

A government

source said that Shah will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for 21 projects worth Rs 1,311 crore on Friday.

Projects to be inaugurated included Churachandpur Medical College (State Compound) in Churachandpur district, Manipur Olympian Park at Sangaithel in Imphal East, development of cave tourism project at Khangkhui Cave in Ukhrul district, among others.

Shah will unveil the 120-feet statue of a polo player riding a pony developed at Heingang Marjing Hill in Imphal East district and also hoist the national flag at the heritage

site of INA headquarters at Moirang of Bishnupur district.

Earlier in the day, the chief minister inspected the INA headquarters in Bishnupur district and Marjing Statue Complex in Imphal East district ahead of Shah’s visit.

Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in the state in view of the visit of the Union home minister.

As a part of security measures, authorities of the state government ordered “no fly zone for drones and UAV” as well as clearing up of unattended vehicles and construction materials along the route and site where Shah is set to travel.

Centre approves Rs 12,882 cr for development schemes in NE

NEW DELHI, JAN 5 (PTI): The Centre has approved the continuation of schemes of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) with an outlay of Rs 12,882 crore for the balance period of the 15th Finance Commission (2022-23 to 2025-26).

has been established in the region under Modi’s leadership, he said.

connectivity has been the prime focus, the statement said.

set a target of 500 days to provide complete telecom connectivity in the region by the end of 2023.

GUWAHATI, JAN 5

(PTI): Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Thursday reviewed the preparation for the forthcoming three-day Youth-20 Group inception meeting to be held here from February 6, the first of the various summits to be held at different universities across states in India in a run up to the final summit.

The Youth Affairs and Sports minister visited the various venues for the Y20 events, like IIT Guwahati and Sankardev Kalakshetra along with holding discussions with officials of the state government and other stakeholders.

Thakur, also the Information and Broadcasting minister, stressed on active participation of youths in the event, where cultural traditions will be exchanged

and review will be done on subjects like peace process and conflict zone, among others.

“The G20 Summit 2023 to be hosted by India in the time of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ is itself a matter of pride. Through the event it will be showcased how India is the mother of democracy, how India has done remarkable job in various sectors being a big democracy and what India is going to do in future. In this connection the first meeting of the Y20 group of youths will be held at Guwahati’”, he said.

India is hosting the Y20 summit for the first time where more than 250 delegates from across the world are expected to participate.

The Y20 India Summit in 2023 would exemplify

India’s youth-centric efforts and provide an opportunity to showcase its values and policy measures so that India’s leadership of this summit can stand out among the youth cohort, Thakur said.

Youth20 is one of the eight official engagement groups under the G20 umbrella.

The G20 rotating presidency bears the responsibility of hosting the youth summit, which usually takes place some weeks prior to the traditional forum to know what the youths are thinking and incorporate their suggestions in their own policy proposals.

The Union Minister will also launch the themes of Y20 summit, logo and website in the curtain raiser event of Y20 Summit India on Friday in New Delhi.

Addressing a press conference here, Minister for DoNER G Kishan Reddy said the decision to extend the approved schemes for the balance period of the 15th Finance Commission was taken at a meeting of the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.

This would enable better planning for the implementation of the schemes in terms of project selection and front-loading of projects during the scheme period, he said.

Reddy said efforts will be made to conclude the maximum number of projects by 2025-26 so that there are minimum committed liabilities beyond that year.

The minister said based on the Expenditure Finance Committee’s (EFC) recommendations, the outlay for the North East Special Infrastructure Scheme (NESIDS) will be Rs 8,139.5 crore, including the committed liabilities of the ongoing projects.

The outlay for the “Schemes of NEC” will be

3 more MLAs quit M’laya Assembly; likely to join NPP

SHILLONG, JAN 5

(IANS): Weeks before the announcement of Assembly elections, shifting of loyalty of MLAs continued in Meghalaya with three more legislators of local parties on Thursday quitting the Assembly, and their parties

All three - Hamlet Dohling (Mylliem), Samlin Malngiang (Sohiong), and Jason Sawkmie (Umsning) - are likely to join the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) soon.

While Dohling and Sawkmie belonged to the People’s Democratic Front, Malngiang belonged to the Hill State People’s Democratic Party.

In another development, NPP MLA from Phulbari, S.G Esmatur Mominin, along with former MLA Robinus Syngkon, joined the Trinamool Congress during a joiningcum-poll campaign launch

on Thursday.

Syngkon is also a sitting member of the District Council in Jaintia Hills.

Mominin on Wednesday resigned from the house.

So far, eleven Meghalaya MLAs since December last year have resigned from the house and their respective parties and joined different parties.

On December 14,

Sangma of the NPP and H.M. Shangpliang of the Trinamool - joined the BJP in New Delhi in presence of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and BJP spokesman Sambit Patra.

On December 19 and 29, three suspended Congress

MLAs -- Ampareen

Lyngdoh (East Shillong), Mohendro Rapsang (West Shillong), and Kimfa Sidney Marbaniang (Rambrai Jyrngam) respectively -also resigned and joined the NPP.

Two remaining suspended Congress legislators -- Mayralborn Syiem (Nongpoh) and P.T. Sawkmie (Mawlai) are also likely to soon quit the Assembly and join the United Democratic Party (UDP), a member of the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government.

The Congress had earlier suspended five party MLAs for their closeness with the NPP leadership, specially Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.

Meghalaya, along with Nagaland and Tripura, are slated to go for polls in February.

Rs 3,202.7 crore, including the committed liabilities of the ongoing projects, the outlay for special packages for the Bodoland Territorial Council, the Dima Hasao Autonomous Territorial Council (DHATC) and the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Territorial Council (KAATC) in Assam is Rs 1,540 crore, including the committed liabilities of the ongoing projects.

The NESIDS, a central sector scheme with 100 per cent central funding, has been restructured having two components -- NESIDS (Roads) and NESIDS (other than road infrastructure).

Reddy said the development of the northeast is a major priority for the Centre, while pointing out that the prime minister has visited the region more than 50 times and Union ministers have visited it more than 400 times in the last eight years.

The northeast was previously known for unrest, bombings, bandhs etc. but in the last eight years, peace

The minister said the objectives of the schemes of the MDoNER is to supplement the efforts of the different central ministries and departments on one hand and to address the needs of the northeastern states on the other, for uncovered development and welfare activities.

The Ministry of DoNER schemes help provide gap-filling support to the eight states of the region in accordance with their felt needs by taking up projects, such as those for developing infrastructure to mitigate connectivity and social sector deficits and enhancing livelihood and employment opportunities in the region, he said.

The five pillars of the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan” for a selfreliant India -- economy, infrastructure, system, vibrant demography and demand -- will get a push through the schemes, Reddy added.

According to an official statement, the actual expenditure in the last four years under the DoNER schemes was Rs 7,534.46 crore, whereas the fund available for expenditure in the next four years till 202526 is Rs 19,482.2 crore.

Massive efforts have been undertaken for infrastructure development in the region and improving

NE states heaven of India : Tomar

in each of the Northeastern states,”‘Tomar said.

For improving railway connectivity, Rs 51,019 crore have been spent since 2014. A total of 19 new projects worth Rs 77,930 crore have been sanctioned.

In comparison to the average annual budget allocation of Rs 2,122 crore during 2009-14, in the last eight years, there has been a 370-per cent increase in the average annual budget allocation, totalling Rs 9,970 crore, the statement said. For improving road connectivity, 375 projects worth Rs 1.05 lakh crore are underway. In the next three years, the government will lay 9,476 kilometres of roads under 209 projects and the Centre is spending Rs 1,06,004 crore for this.

Air connectivity has also improved massively.

In 68 years, the northeast had only nine airports. The number jumped to 17 in a short span of eight years.

Air traffic movement in the northeast has increased by 113 per cent since 2014 (year on year) to further give a boost to air connectivity and an amount of Rs 2,000 crore will be invested in civil aviation in the region, the statement said.

For improving telecom connectivity, Rs 3,466 crore have been spent since 2014. The cabinet has also approved 4G connectivity in 4,525 villages of the region and the Centre has

Waterways are integral to the life and culture of the northeast and the government is undertaking all efforts to develop this important sector in the region. Before 2014, there was only one national waterway in the northeast but now, the number has gone up to 18. Recently, an amount of Rs 6,000 crore has been sanctioned for the development of the National Waterway 2 and the National Waterway 16. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have been promoted under various schemes to boost entrepreneurship development and Rs 645.07 crore have been spent to set up and support 978 units.

According to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), 3,865 startups are registered from the northeast.

Improving the health infrastructure has been a key focus over the last eight years and the government has spent Rs 31,793.86 crore in the health sector since 2014-15.

A total of 19 state cancer institutes and 20 tertiary care cancer centres have been approved under the strengthening of the tertiary care of cancer scheme, the statement said.

CHOZUBAMI WOMEN WELFARE FORUM KOHIMA CONDEMNATION

The Chozubami

Correspondent UMIAM (MEGHALAYA), JAN 5: Describing Northeastern states heaven of India , Union Agriculture Minister, Narendra Singh Tomar on Thursday stressed on the need to adapt to new technologies.

“If we speak of heaven in connection to agriculture, it is the North Eastern region of India leading the way, as it has its own unique agricultural products and practices along with varied diversities

Addressing a three day Krishi Kumbh Mela at ICAR RC NEH, here in Meghalaya, the Union Minister said, “Institutes like ICAR have demonstrated potential in looking after the farmers who are most valued to fulfil the hunger of the entire nation.”

Stating that India is now not only a food producing nation but also an exporter, Tomar stressed on the quality of production while increasing the produce.

Emphasising that there is no dearth of water resources in North East India and the water when used efficiently, can be enhanced to produce “per drop more crop”, the Union Minister said, “it is time for transition from climate sensitive agriculture to climate resilient agriculture.

The Forum further appeal the law enforcing agency to award stringent punishment to the culprit as

OFFICE OF THE CHOZUBA AREA MOTHERS’ ASSOCIATION HQ. CHOZUBA TOWN CONDEMNATION

We, the Chozuba Area Mothers’ Association is profoundly shocked and vehemently condemns the gruesome murder of our beloved Late Khrütalü by her husband, Thejakolie Angami, constable, MT DEF Kohima on 24 th December 2022 night at Kohima. Such barbarism does not belong in a civilized society and it is a matter of grave concern. The CMA therefore, appeals to the concerned authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter at the earliest possible, and award befitting punishment to the accused.

The CMA mourns the loss of a dear mother, and conveys deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We also pray for the departed soul to rest in peace.

Küvolü Ringa Küsonülü Keyho President Treasurer Chozuba Area Mothers' Association Chozuba Area Mothers' Association

Women Welfare Forum Kohima vehemently condemn the inhuman torture and killing of Mrs. Late Khrütalü by her husband Mr. Thejakolie Angami, Constable MT, DEF Kohima on 24th December 2022.

deemed fit.

(YEVETOLU NIENU) (VELAKHOLU SWURO) General Secretary, CWWFK Chairperson, CWWFK K-34/23

DHARMANAGAR/

Amit Shah with Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha and BJP MP Biplab Deb during a rally at Sabroom, Thursday. (PTI)

Manipur CM N Biren Singh recieving Union HM Amit Shah on his arrival at Imphal Airport on Thursday evening.

Narendra Singh Tomar

G Kishan Reddy

Union minister Anurag Singh Thakur reviews preparations for next month’s Y20 Group meeting, during a visit to IIT-Guwahati on Thursday.

ceremony of the party here

Independent MLA Samuel Sangma and three resigned legislators - Benedict Marak and Ferlin C.A.

Hamletson Dohling (L), Samlin Malngiang (C), Jason Sawkmie Mawlong (R)

Woman molested in local train

PALGHAR, JAN 5 (PTI): A 27-year-old man allegedly molested a woman commuter in a local train in Maharashtra’s Palghar district, railway police said on Thursday.

The incident took place on Monday night when the woman was travelling in a secondclass compartment of the suburban train which was on way to Virar in Palghar from Dadar in neighbouring Mumbai.

The accused, Rafique Mohammad Isaq Shaikh, was also in the same coach, the police said in a release.

When the train entered Nallasopara station, the accused allegedly flashed at the woman and touched her inappropriately. After the woman raised an alarm, fellow commuters caught hold of the accused and handed him over to police, the release said.

The accused has been booked under sections 354 (outraging a woman’s modesty) and 354A (sexual harassment) of the Indian Penal Code, the police added.

Four held for selling toddler

PALGHAR, JAN 5 (PTI): Four persons were arrested in Maharashtra’s Palghar district for allegedly selling a two-year-old boy for Rs 2.35 lakh by taking advantage of the poverty of his parents, a police official said on Thursday.

Crime Branch Unit III Senior Inspector Pramod Badakh said a couple and five others, including two women, reached out to the parents of the child on December 27 and took him away.

“They told the parents they would take proper care of the child and also promised them the opportunity to meet him once in a while. They then sold the child for Rs 2.35 lakh. When his mother came to know about it, she filed a complaint with Virar police,” Badakh said.

We have arrested four persons, including a man based in Valsad in Gujarat who had bought the child, while efforts were on to nab the others, Badakh informed.

Another mid-air urination incident on Paris-Delhi AI flight

NEW DELHI, JAN 5 (PTI): Ten days after the shocking November 26 incident on a New York-Delhi Air India flight, another episode of a drunk male passenger allegedly urinating on a female passenger’s blanket was reported on the Paris-Delhi sector but there was no penal action after he gave a written apology, officials said on Thursday.

This incident happened on December 6 on Air India flight 142 and the pilot of the aircraft reported the matter to the Air Traffic Control (ATC) at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport about it, following which the male passenger was apprehended.

It is not known which class the passengers were travelling in.

The flight landed around 9:40 AM at Delhi and the airport security was informed that the male passenger was “under the influence of alcohol and he was not following the instruc -

tions of the cabin crew and he later peed on a blanket of an onboard lady passenger”, airport officials told PTI.

The male passenger was apprehended by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as soon as he deboarded the plane but was later allowed to leave after the two passengers had a “mutual compromise” and the accused tendered a “written apology”, they said.

The lady passenger, who had initially made a written complaint, refused to file a police case and

Cong’s other name is ‘corruption, commission & casteism’: Nadda

we had promised this and we have done it, we had not promised something, but still we have done it,” Bommai said. He called on party workers to tell people that neither former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa nor incumbent Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has left any stone unturned to take Karnataka ahead.

hence the passenger was allowed to go by the airport security after he cleared immigration and customs formalities, they said.

The incident came just over a week after the November 26 episode where a man allegedly urinated on a female co-passenger onboard a New York-Delhi Air India flight.

The Delhi Police has now registered an FIR in the November incident, based on a complaint by the victim to Air India, and has formed several teams to nab the accused.

Man who urinated on woman flyer identified; FIR filed

NEW DELHI,JAN 5 (AGENCIES): Delhi Police have filed an FIR under IPC sections dealing with outraging the modesty of a woman, misconduct by a drunken person and committing an obscene act in a public place against a man who allegedly urinated on a septuagenarian female passenger on a flight from New York to New Delhi on November 26, reports Times of India.

Police have identified the suspect as Shekhar Mishra, a businessman in his fifties from Mumbai. He has been located and efforts are being made to apprehend him, an official said.

The FIR was filed on Wednesday on the complaint of the woman, based in Karnataka, which she had earlier submitted to the airline. Police claimed they were informed about the incident in brief only on December 28 by the airline, after which they contacted the victim and the airline seeking details of the passenger and the complaint.

police, IGI Airport, said, “Based on the woman’s complaint, a case under Section 510 (misconduct in public by a drunken person), 509 (insulting the modesty of a woman), 294 (sings, recites or utters any obscene song, ballad or words, in or near any public place), 354 (intending to outrage modesty) of the Indian Penal Code as well as 23 Aircraft Rules Act (sic) has been registered. Efforts are being made to nab the accused.”

Cops on tail of AI unruly flyer, will quiz crew members too

Police have filed an FIR against a Mumbaibased businessman for urinating on a woman flyer in the business class on a New York-Delhi flight in November.

not in his senses, he did not realise it was a passenger’s seat and not the bathroom and continued to relieve himself.

The woman was disappointed with the response of the crew and wrote a letter to Tata Group chairman N Chandrasekaran.

“Shortly after lunch was served and the lights were switched off, another passenger walked to my seat, completely inebriated. He unzipped his pants, relieved himself and continued to expose me to his private parts,” said the letter.

able slippers to change into. She stood by the toilet for about 20 minutes as she did not want to return to her soiled seat. Thereafter, she was given the narrow crew seat, where she sat for an hour and was then told to return to her seat. “Although staff had put sheets on top, the area was still damp and reeking of urine,” she said. Two hours later, she was given another crew seat, where she sat for the remainder of the flight. She learnt later from a fellow passenger that several seats in the first class were vacant.

TUMAKURU (K’TAKA), JAN 5 (PTI): BJP national president J P Nadda on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has created “politics of report card” in the country, and the party will face Karnataka polls, with a report card on its performance.

Congress’ other name is “corruption, commission and casteism” and they should be made to sit at home, he said as he urged his party cadres to take the message of BJP’s inclusive politics, and its belief in taking all sections of the society irrespective of religion, caste, gender together.

“When we go for election we will go with a report card, every single of our leaders, thumping their chests with pride, will say

Decennial Census to be further delayed: Officials

NEW DELHI, JAN 5

(PTI): The exercise to carry out the decennial census has been further postponed — at least till September 30, officials said. The housing listing phase of the census and the exercise to update the National Population Register (NPR) were scheduled to be carried out across the country from April 1 to September 30, 2020, but were postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

In a communication to all states, the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India conveyed that the date of freezing of administrative boundaries has been extended till June 30.

According to norms, census can be conducted only three months after the freezing of boundary limits of administrative units such as districts, sub-districts, tehsils, talukas and police stations. In its letter, the census authorities, while referring to an earlier communication to extend the date of freezing of boundaries up to December 31 in 2020, said it has now been decided by the competent authority to further extend the date of freezing of boundaries. The boundaries of the administrative units for the ensuing census will now be freezed with effect from July 1, 2023.

The finalisation of boundaries of administrative units entails covering all jurisdictional changes between two consecutive censuses. The communication said the state governments can give effect to the changes in administrative boundaries, if any, latest by June 30, 2023, and send copies of notifications on jurisdictional changes to the Directorate of Census Operations in the state or Union Territory concerned with an endorsement to the census authorities in Delhi. The freeze on administrative boundaries was effective from January 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021, before the COVID-19 pandemic. Later, the census authorities said that since the Census 2021 had been postponed until further orders and several requests were received from states for permission to create new units, the date of freezing of boundaries was extended till December 31, 2020.

It was then extended twice — till December 31, 2021, and again till December 31, 2022. According to the earlier schedule, the census would have its reference date as March 1, 2021, and in the snow-bound Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, it would have been October 1, 2020.

Nadda was addressing BJP’s “Shakti Kendra” heads meeting of Tumakuru and Madhugiri Assembly segments here, as the party prepares for Assembly polls likely by April-May.

He said he has come to the meeting to meet the workers, who work at the ground level and take the message of the party and the government to the people. “I have decided to visit all parts of Karnataka and directly speak to karyakartas as we prepare for upcoming elections.” Further asking party workers to organise “tiffin meetings” at Shakti Kedras and booth-level to unify the society and ending casteism, Nadda said exchange food, send out a message of togetherness and party’s ideology.

NEW DELHI, JAN 5

(PTI): The Supreme Court on Thursday stayed the Uttarakhand High Court order for removal of encroachments from 29 acres of land claimed by the railways in Haldwani, calling it a “human issue” and saying 50,000 people cannot be uprooted overnight.

Amid protests by residents who insist they have title to the land, a bench of Justices S K Kaul and A S Oka said a workable solution needs to be found.

According to the railways, there are 4,365 encroachers on the land.

Nearly 50,000 people, a majority of them Muslims, belonging to over 4,000 families reside on the disputed land. The apex court issued notices to the railways and the state government seeking their responses to a batch of pleas challenging the high court order for removal of encroachments.

“Notice. In the meantime, there shall be stay of directions passed in the impugned order,” said the bench, which posted the matter for further hearing on February 7.

“We do believe that a workable arrangement

Ravi Kumar

Singh, deputy commissioner of

Police officials have also received details about the crew members who were on board the flight, and will question them to ascertain the sequence of events. As per information available, the man, who is in his 50s, was heavily drunk and got up to go to the bathroom. Since he was

He moved only after one of her co-passengers asked him to leave. When he walked away, the woman immediately notified a cabin crew member. “My clothes, shoes and bag were completely soaked in urine.

The stewardess followed me to the seat, verified that it smelled of urine, and sprayed disinfectant on my bag and shoes...” the letter said.

After the woman passenger cleaned herself in the lavatory, the crew gave her a set of pyjamas and dispos-

“At the end of the flight, the staff told me they would get me a wheelchair to ensure I clear customs as quickly as possible. However, the wheelchair deposited me at a waiting area, where I waited for 30 minutes, and nobody came to get me. I finally had to clear customs on my own and collect the luggage by myself-all in Air India pyjamas and socks,” she said.

On the other hand, Mishra got off the flight and left the airport without any action.

SC stays High Court order for eviction in Haldwani

mitted in their plea that the high court has gravely erred in passing the impugned order despite being aware of the fact that proceedings with regard to title of the residents including the petitioners are pending before the district magistrate.

There are religious places, schools, business establishments and residences on an area spread over 29 acres land in Banbhoolpura.

upholding of the same by the high court has resulted in gross violation of their right to shelter.

The petitioners have claimed they are in possession of valid documents that clearly establish their title and valid occupation.

is necessary to segregate people who may have no rights in the land.... coupled with schemes of rehabilitation which may already exist while recognising the need of the Railways,” the bench said.

The top court observed that the authorities have to find a “practical way out”.

“There are multiple angles arising from the nature of the land, ownership of the land, the nature of rights conferred....,” it said, adding, “We are trying to tell you, find out some solution. This is a human issue.”

The bench observed that Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, who appeared for the railways, has emphasised on the needs of the railways.

It said the moot point to be considered would be the stand of the state government also as to whether the complete land is to vest in the railways or the state is claiming a part of it.

The bench said, apart from that, there are issues of occupants claiming rights on the land as lessees or lease hold or auction purchases.

The high court had on December 20 last year ordered demolition of constructions over alleged encroached railway land at Banbhoolpura in Haldwani.

It had directed that a week’s notice be given to the encroachers after which the encroachments should be demolished.

The residents have sub-

“It is submitted that the High Court has gravely erred in not appreciating that the alleged Demarcation Report dated April 7, 2021 placed before it by the Railway Authorities, was a hollow sham that revealed no demarcation whatsoever,” one of the pleas have said.

“Despite extracting the covering letter of the Demarcation Report in the impugned order, the actual contents of the Report that only contained the names and addresses of all the residents, were not gone into by the High Court,” the plea said.

The residents have contended that the “arbitrary and illegal” approach adopted by the railways and state authorities as well as the

“It is further submitted that the High Court ought to have given due consideration to all these documents instead of making allegations of vote bank politics against State. Additionally, the names of the local residents have been recorded in the municipal records in the house tax register and they are paying the house tax regularly,” they said.

Many of the residents claim the houses of those who left India during the Partition in 1947 were auctioned by the government and bought by them.

On November 9, 2016, the high court had ordered the removal of encroachments from the railway land within 10 weeks, while hearing a PIL filed by Ravi Shankar Joshi. The court had said that all encroachers should be brought under the Railway Public Premises (eviction of unauthorised occupants) Act 1971.

Children from Haldwani thank the Supreme Court after its order on Haldwani eviction case, in Haldwani, Thursday. (PTI)

J P Nadda

Need to curb election evils

Withterm of the current 13th Nagaland Legislative Assembly expiring by March 12,2023, assembly election to constitute the next 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly has to be held sometime by end of February or first week of March 2023. Election is like any other election in most of the states where money and muscle power are considered important factors for a winning combination. Money is like fuel to move the election machinery and plays a crucial factor and considered a must ingredient to fight elections. The huge expenditures depend on the spending power of rival candidates but does not necessarily guarantee victory. The other factor that candidates need to have is money to enlist an army of youth volunteers , to manage campaigns, security and also as muscle power for booth capturing during polling day. However, the entire electioneering is rendered meaningless and the system itself turning into a farce when intending candidates are not given the same opportunity for fair campaigning. It has been the experience of scores of candidates in Nagaland, to be literally banned from entering or campaigning within the jurisdiction of a village where that village authority/ range has already decided on the ‘consensus candidate.’ The selection of a consensus candidate by force or fraud also means that the voters of that village or area are expected to abide by the diktat to vote only for the selected and chosen ‘consensus candidate’ or else face the consequences. It is pertinent to note that such diktats by village or range authorities are totally against the valued principle of fair play and free choice. To put on notice against such undemocratic and offensive action, the Deputy Commissioner Wokha Ajit Kumar Ranjan has taken serious note of the unethical and undemocratic means resorted to by village councils/range organisations in declaring socalled consensus candidate. Ranjan maintained that such declarations not only violated various electoral laws but constitute offence under the Indian Penal Code(IPC). It was pointed out that declaration of so-called consensus candidate(s) was an attempt to interfere with the free exercise of electoral right by any means such as –threat of injury/restraint – which constitute offence under sections 171C,339 and 340 of the IPC. It was further pointed out that under Section 125 of Representation of the People Act 1951, any attempt to promote enmity between classes in connection with elections on grounds of religion, race, caste, community or language constitutes electoral offence and is also punishable under Sections 153 A,153 B, 295 A and 505(2) of IPC. Considering the fact that such diktats to vote for a so-called consensus candidate is totally against free and fair election and against the fundamental right of choice; it is incumbent upon the state government to deter such ‘diktats’ by asking the district magistrates or deputy commissioners to issue a similar caution as that issued by the deputy commission Wokha district. Issuing such notices will serve to remind the village authorities that selection of candidate is done under the constitution through the election system by the voters and not by the village authorities. Issuing diktat to vote only for a particular candidate is as repugnant as use of money to buy votes and muscle power to coerce or threaten voters and the sooner those indulging in them are taught a harsh lesson the better for a clean election.

DailyDevotion Worship

He moved from there to the mountain east of Bethel, and he pitched his tent with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east; there he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord. —Genesis 12:8

Worship is giving God the best that He has given you. Be careful what you do with the best you have. Whenever you get a blessing from God, give it back to Him as a love-gift. Take time to meditate before God and offer the blessing back to Him in a deliberate act of worship. If you hoard it for yourself, it will turn into spiritual dry rot, as the manna did when it was hoarded (see Exodus 16:20). God will never allow you to keep a spiritual blessing completely for yourself. It must be given back to Him so that He can make it a blessing to others.

Bethel is the symbol of fellowship with God; Ai is the symbol of the world. Abram “pitched his tent” between the two. The lasting value of our public service for God is measured by the depth of the intimacy of our private times of fellowship and oneness with Him. Rushing in and out of worship is wrong every time— there is always plenty of time to worship God. Days set apart for quiet can be a trap, detracting from the need to have daily quiet time with God. That is why we must “pitch our tents” where we will always have quiet times with Him, however noisy our times with the world may be. There are not three levels of spiritual life— worship, waiting, and work. Yet some of us seem to jump like spiritual frogs from worship to waiting, and from waiting to work. God’s idea is that the three should go together as one. They were always together in the life of our Lord and in perfect harmony. It is a discipline that must be developed; it will not happen overnight.

Quotes

Crime prevention is more important than investigation

The ghastly incident of a young lady being dragged under the wheels of a car for miles in India’s capital - resulting in a most painful death of the woman - by a group of drunken vagabonds out to ‘enjoy’ a late New Year night, raises, above everything else, the question of the systemic decline of policing in this country over years.

The car had hit the woman driving a scooter on her way back home from a late night party and the young men - inebriated and totally oblivious of any kind of social responsibility - did not pause to respond to the fact that something untoward had happened in their knowledge.

The entire stretch of road on which the car moved after the incident covered more than one police station area but not one policeman or PCR vehicle, if present on duty, swung into action. A public spirited witness reportedly rang up the Control Room but there was no immediate response of the kind that an emergency call should have evoked.

It has taken a most tragic death of a citizen - a hardworking girl of a poor background who was somehow managing to feed her large family including an ailing mother that was totally dependent on her - to wake up the nation about what was not working on the law and order front. While the case was being ‘investigated’ for whatever was the crime

content of the incident, an inquiry committee of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) might go into the systemic and individual failures brought out by the episode for the purpose of defining the learnings that would upgrade the Delhi Police working and get it to serve as an example in future for the law and order management anywhere in the country.

After all there has to be a uniform level of efficiency that policing must maintain through the length and breadth of the nation even as state governments had been made autonomous in handling the most important duty of a democratic country - of ensuring the safety and security of citizens against the assaults of criminals, anti-social elements and influencewielding individuals.

It is known for very long that there was a breakdown of supervision by senior officers over that ground level establishment of law and order management called the Police Station that worked closest to the citizens.

Once upon a time officers at the level of SP and above made surprise visits to police stations at night to ensure that the staff was not all ‘sleeping’ it off and becoming inaccessible to people reporting an emergency. On special occasions like New Year eve when special law and order arrangements had to be made in a metropolitan city, duty would be taken by turns and

even senior officers - they are mostly from IPS - would in the midst of their personal engagements find some time to ‘take a round’ in some part of their jurisdiction or the other to keep to the mandate of supervision in place.

Police leadership is not identifying itself with police station - one reason for this ‘aloofness’ could be the reality that those wielding political power in some places directly dealt with Station House Officers at the back of their seniors.

In parts of Delhi, the police arrangements for the New Year eve apparently remained only on paper - this would not have been the case if any senior officer would have made a midnight supervisory trip to any of the police stations concerned.

IPS officers need to be reminded that they were in law, supposed to have the power of the Station House Officer in respect of all the police stations in their jurisdiction and asked to demonstrate this through surprise inspections of some police stations or the other once in a while. The subject of supervision of police stations should receive special emphasis during the main course for IPS run by the National Police Academy, Hyderabad. Another healthy legacy of Policing of the times gone by, which seemed to have been given up, is the recognition of ‘beats’ that the PS had for the purpose of specially earmarking staff for their

coverage - in terms of keeping an eye on the quiet and ascertaining discreetly from the conscientious citizens if everything about crime and order was satisfactory there.

Sections 107 and 108 of Cr PC and Section 34 of Police Act together enable a Police Officer to stop and check an individual - for a valid reason like loiteringto ascertain what was he doing at that particular place at that point of time. This will work with public acceptance if Policemen were deemed to be upright and honest which unfortunately was not the case always. At the same time police leadership has to make it a part of its responsibility to identify a ‘rogue cop’ and take effective action against him.

In the case of Delhi incident, a police officer if present on duty, would have had sufficient grounds to stop the Baleno car of the rowdy looking New Year revellers on that fateful night and catch them in time for drunken driving if nothing else. A colossal Police deficiency of this kind should serve the purpose of quickly reviving police management practices that had been given up possibly because of a collusion of convenience between political leaders, administration and police leadership itself, among other things.

Under the present Union Home Minister, the MHA is more emphatically pursuing the Police Modernisation Scheme and improving the mobility, communications and Po -

lice housing situation in particular.

Apart from providing equipment and manpower to the Police, the country needs to move in the direction of putting police stations in the charge of gazetted officers and giving the Centre a role in the appointment of DGP of the state by stipulating that this selection will be done out of a panel of three officers drawn up by UPSC on the basis of seniority-cum-merit in consultation with the state government. Also, it will help the larger national objective if inter- state transfer of IPS officers are made a little more common with special recognition being given to the fact that the officer had served at least for one tenure in any state other than the ‘cadre state’.

Further, there should be a revival of District Armed Police (DAP) and its contingents should be placed at selected police stations for rapid deployment in potential law and order situations. A district force would know the territory and people better compared to the State Armed Police or Central Para Military forces.

Measures that provide a level playing field to police in all parts of the country make for internal cohesion and grater uniformity about the management of law and order as a task that did not have any political tint.

Structural improvements can not however hide the flaws in the professional handling of the police force, effective deployment of men

A civil police force is widely dispersed and the control of seniors is somewhat remote. However, it is a question of evolving practices that remove the functional gulf between the police station and the hierarchy of senior officers above. Friendly surprise visits to police stations, formal inspections and participation in an occasional ‘Bara Khana’ at one of the Police Lines are the means by which IPS officers can strengthen their supervision - these practices were well recognised but seemed to be fading out.

The IPS officers should ensure that credit was given to subordinates where due and deterrent punishment was also awarded to individuals guilty of an indefensible serious dereliction of duty.

In the annual evaluation of SPs and Range DIGs mention should be made of the visits to PS the officer had made during the year.

There is a lurking doubt about the extent to which the Indian Police Service (IPS) had - over the decades of its existence - really upgraded the working of Police Stations in India. It is not late to do this in mission mode even today.

D.C. Pathak

(The writer is a former Director of Intelligence Bureau. Views expressed are personal)

Another rejoinder against Mezoma claims of Anglo -Naga Peace treaty

It is noted that Mezoma Mechü Kehou(MMK) carried out a stone-pulling ceremony in commemoration of 142 years of Anglo-Naga peace treaty on December 07,2022 during the ongoing Hornbill Festival. Chief Minister Neiphi-u Rio graced the occasion as chief guest.

The information and publicity cell, Naga club HQ, Kohima, on the other hand, while acknowledging the Stone-pulling ceremony, said that the “so called Peace Treaty” of March 27, 1880 as reported was because Mezoma was a friendly village to the British govt and so the village made the venue of peaceful agreement.

The Naga club venue clarified he various dictionary meanings of “Peace Treaty” and reiterated that there was no peace treaty as such but a “No more fight Agreement” between the British Govt. And the Nagas at Mezoma on March 27, 1880.

It took about six months for this “No more Fight Agreement”

after G.H Damant with 65 police personnel and 20 military personnel along with some civilian cooks started to tour Jotsoma, Khonoma and Mezoma as of October 13, 1879.

The party camped at Jotsoma on that night while getting ready to go to Khonoma on the net day. It was then that a Jotsoma interpreter satha senotsu advised Damant not to proceed to Khonoma. However, without paying any heed to the serious warnings G.H. Damant proceeded to Khonoma.

As was the British tradition, Damant hoisted a white flag and tried toreach the Khonoma Fort hoping for a peaceful meeting. Be that as it may, Naga warriors were not at all aware of the significance of a white flag and Damant was killed in the process along with three Damant was killed in the process along with three others.

After this incident, 13(thirteen) villages rose against the

British as mentioned by the Naga club information and publicity cell in its“A rejoinder against Mezoma’s claim of Anglo-Naga Peace Treaty” as published in Nagaland Post of December 18, 2022 issue. The British then took to punitive actions against these 13 villages even demolishing them.

Then Pelhu Dolie a renowned warrior of Khonoma organised about 200 warriors and camped at Nakama(is now in Peren district). He led some of warriors to Assam, probably the tea gardens somewhere about Golaghat and killed the British working here along with local workers. By then the British found it necessary to have a peaceful solution and insisted on the presence of Pulhu Dolie on 27th March 1880 at Mezoma.

The British contingent was led by an officer of Captain’s rank and the villagers offered him a chair to sit on and probably Mezoma villagers surprised the

captain how in such agreement or covenant between villages an a live cat would expressed down one party on the tail part. And the alive cat would be divided into two with a sharp knife from head to tail and the priest will pronounce the curses that will come upon the village who violated the no more fight agreement or covenant.

Eventually, Pelhu Dolie attired in his full Naga warrior dress accompanied by his bodyguards appeared before the British contingent and the caption stood up and offered his chair for Dolie.

The captain wanted to have the “No more fight Agreement” signed but Dolie declined stating to the effect, “if you have come to control ourhead hunting and honour our village boundaries and your coming to our country is only for peace and if you do not disturb us then we will not disturb you, then you are not my enemy, you can be my friend. So,

on this “No More Fight Agreement my word is binding” in the presence of Kienitso Seyie. (It seemed Mr Keneitso Seyie was the contact man).

Infact, this was reiterated to me by Late A.Z.Phizo when i visited him and stayed for two days at his residence in 45 Bromley, Kent England in the year 1983. He also gave me a photo copy of Hatchisong’s record that there was any treaty made with Nagas.

As to the other matters regarding which there are differences between MMK and the information and publicity cell of Naga Club HQ, kohima, it is my fervent request that these be amicably resolved by acknowledging the truth so that our Naga people can record a clear cut history in the interest of our unique traditions.

Last but not least Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to one and all.

Dr N.Kiezienuo Kohima.

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~ Bob Marley

Recently the Taliban have ordered an indefinite ban on university education for the country’s women, the ministry of higher education said in a letter issued to all government and private universities. Before this drastic decision last year, The Ministry of Women’s Affairs was dissolved. And the sinister Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice has been re-established. This clearly illustrates that the Taliban will carry on with its medieval conservative interpretation of Islam they are nothing more than an extremist group that has grabbed power. In addition to that, the Taliban is still nurturing global jihadi elements they just outrightly lie that they don’t have any global ambitions. This was clearly illustrated when in August last year a U.S. drone killed al Qaeda’s leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri, in a Kabul apartment reportedly owned by Taliban’s senior leader and interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani. Af -

ghanistan after the Taliban’s takeover has become a haven for global and regional terror outfits like-Al-Qaeda, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, which seeks the overthrow of the Pakistani state. AntiBeijing Turkistan Islamic Party (formerly the East Turkestan Islamic Movement). And the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and Jamaat Ansarullah, which targets Tajikistan.

Islamic Emirate has literally turned the country into a sanctuary for global jihadist organizations.

Taliban 2.0 has proven to be not much different from its previous version in terms of harboring an ultra-conservative ideology, policies, and practices. Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban’s supreme leader, has in his speeches regularly emphasized that the struggle does not end in Afghanistan but goes beyond its borders to help all oppressed Muslims throughout the world. So, if the international community does not want Afghanistan turned into a hub for terrorism.

Then the best option for it is to support the Anti-Taliban resistance groups which will also be a cheaper option than maintaining any form of armed presence. Around 40 Afghan warlords and exiled politicians convened a meeting and formed a High Council of National Resistance in Ankara in May 2022. To showcase that their respective anti-Taliban resistance can form a united front. The members include former Balkh province governor Atta Mohammad Noor, National Resistance Front (NRF) member Ahmad Wali Massoud, and Shia leader Mohammad Mohaqiq.

The most important group leading the resistance is the National Resistance Front (NRF) which is the biggest anti-Taliban armed group. It’s believed to have several thousand fighters and is led by Ahmad Massoud, the son of the late Northern Alliance commander Ahmad Shah Massoud. Despite the limited resources, the NRF is gaining ground mainly due to

Taliban failings and their own successful operations. The killing of Mullah Zakir Qayyum, an important Taliban commander by NRF in September last year showcased this. It has become self-evident in Afghanistan that once an armed resistance group gains a foothold in an area it becomes hard to root out. This is more so if it is able to mobilize a degree of local support and operates in a geographically remote area. Since the takeover of Afghanistan by the Islamists NRF appears to have achieved just that in the provinces of Panjshir, Baghlan, and Parwan in the country’s northeast. This has been done despite significant odds and without much outside support.

Ideologically, NRF embraces a moderate central Asian Islamic tradition espousing reason and cultural propagation. It advocates a decentralized political system in Afghanistan based on elections as well as promoting equality regardless of gender, ethnic-

ity, sectarian or linguistic origin. The NRF has the potential to establish territorial enclaves if provided with money and armaments in its northeastern strongholds. With assistance from the United Nations, it could restore some public services as well. Most importantly it could bring back education for girls and provide refuge for those at immediate risk of persecution like Afghanistan’s Shia community. International humanitarian help in NRF-controlled areas might also offer a solution to the likely migration of millions of Afghans to neighboring regions and to Europe.

With domestic and outside support, perhaps the NRF could play its part not only in bringing down the Taliban but in establishing a more moderate and representative government to take its place. In a recent interview with Foreign Policy Research Institute Mr. Ali Nazari, the head of foreign relations of the National Resistance Front said that they are pursuing a resis-

tance strategy divided into various phases. He said now they are in the first stage of gathering strength in the countryside while exhausting their enemy. The NRF hopes to move soon to the next stage of the insurgency by liberating select regions of the country, which would allow them to gain the resources for the final stage of fighting large-scale battles to overthrow Taliban rule.

It’s a matter of fact that now NRF is the most liberal and democratic force that can be relied on as a counterterrorism ally in Afghanistan. Also, the United States and its allies should strengthen the NRF to fight other terrorist groups in Afghanistan. This approach is already successfully being used by the West in Syria and Iraq by supporting Kurdish fighters to fight against the Islamic State.

Manish Rai (The writer is a columnist for the Middle East and Afghanistan-Pakistan region and Editor of the geo-political news agency ViewsAround)

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.

Love the life you live. Live the life you love.

and evaluation of perfor

mance of individuals. Army establishes a bench mark in the practice of officers identifying themselves with their men.

Police looking for 2 men who ‘shielded’ hit-and-run accused

NEW DELHI, JAN 5 (PTI): Delhi Police on Thursday said it was looking for two men who are suspected to have shielded the five persons accused of dragging a woman under their car.

Amid demands that murder charges be invoked against the accused in the Kanjhawla incident, police said they have not found any previous link between victim Anjali Singh and the accused. They added that for murder charges to be pressed, intention behind the killing needs to be established.

Addressing a press conference, Special Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Sagar Preet Hooda said 18 teams are working on probing the case and all angles are being looked into.

He also sought to dismiss claims by Anjali’s family that that never heard or met her ‘friend’ Nidhi.

Hooda said around 25 to 30 calls were exchanged

between Anjali and Nidhi from December 29-31.

Nidhi had claimed she was with Anjali when their two-wheeler was hit by the Baleno car, with Anjali getting stuck under its wheels and succumbing to the grievous injuries sustained during the accident.

Anjali’s family on Wednesday had questioned Nidhi’s claims and denied having heard of her or even meeting her.

Nidhi had fled the spot out of fear, without informing anyone.

Investigating into the CCTV camera footage and call detail records, police

zeroed in on two more suspects -- Ashutosh and Ankush Khanna -- and said they were involved in shielding the accused. Police are on the look out for the duo.

Deepak Khanna (26), Amit Khanna (25), Krishan (27), Mithun (26) and Manoj Mittal have been arrested so far.

Ankush is accused Amit’s brother. Amit does not have a driving license and after he informed Ankush about the accident, his brother convinced Deepak, who is a Gramin Seva driver, to tell police that he was behind the wheel on the fateful day, the officer said.

He said Ashutosh and Ankush were not in the car. Ashutosh also misled the police by claiming that Deepak took the car when it was Amit, who had taken the car.

Deepak also happens to be Amit and Ankush’s cousin, Hooda said.

When questioned about any link between the

NOIDA, JAN 5 (PTI): A 24-year-old food delivery executive was killed after his motorcycle was hit by an unidentified vehicle and allegedly dragged for about 500 metres here in a suspected hit and run case, police said on Thursday.

An FIR has been lodged and the matter is being probed, they said, adding that claims that the body of the worker was dragged by the car could not be established so far.

Kaushal Yadav worked with Swiggy and was on his way to deliver an order on the intervening night of January 1 and 2 when the incident took place near Sector 14 flyover under Phase

1 police station area, police said. The police said the claim that the worker was dragged by the car could not be established so far through investigation and scanning of available CCTV footages, they said.

Amit Kumar, Yadav’s

cousin and complainant in the case, said he had called up Yadav around 1 am to check on his whereabouts when he was informed of the crash. “An Ola cab driver had received the call on my brother’s phone and informed me about the accident. He said my brother was hit by a vehicle and dragged from Sector 14A flyover to Shani Temple road.

“I rushed to the spot with some family members and found the body of my brother near Shani Temple,” Kumar stated in his complaint. Swiggy or Ola could not be contacted immediately for their response over the incident.

accused and victim, the senior officer said: “There was no connection between accused and victim and accused and eyewitnesses. This is what has been revealed so far in the investigation. The accused will be produced before the court on Thursday and we will request the court for police custody.”

The officer said that all five accused are being interrogated.

Talking about fighting the case in court, Hooda said that a public prosecutor is also being appointed.

“Intention is required for murder. Till now, no previous connection has been found between the accused and victim. If intention is not established, it is difficult for police to prove charges under section 302,” Hooda said. On allegations of delay in arrival of PCR vans and calls not being answered, he said an internal inquiry is being conducted.

“It will be looked into

whether it was human error or some system glitch. Police deployment is more at places where footfall is more,” he added. There were some technical glitches over footage timings also that emerged. More CCTV footage emerged on Wednesday where Nidhi was seen returning home around 1.37 am, about five minutes after she and Anjali left the party venue, leading to questions being raised about the timeline of the events on the fateful night.

However, Hooda said the incident occurred between 2.04 am to 2.06 am, while body was found around 4.15 am.

“Footage is emerging and we are also investigating the matter,” he added.

Sources said that a shoe and an earring were recovered from the spot by police. The FSL teams have recovered bloodstains and pieces of cloth that were found stuck to the car.

The AAP on Thursday alleged that the police and the BJP were “planting evidences” to malign the image of the woman who was killed after being dragged by a car in Delhi.

Aam Aadmi Party national spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj slammed the BJP and Lt Governor V K Saxena, claiming that “facts are being twisted” to “shield its members”.

Anjali Singh was killed in the early hours of New Year after her scooter was hit by a car, which dragged her for 12 kilometres. Her body was found in outer Delhi’s Kanjhawala.

Five men who were allegedly in the car have been booked for culpable homicide among other sections. All five accused were sent to a three-day police custody on Monday. Bhardwaj said the statements of the woman’s “friend” Nidhi, who was present during the time

of the accident, was contradicted by Anjali’s family members who said they had never seen or heard of her.

“Nidhi’s statement only went in the favour of the perpetrators. It is a false statement and it was fabricated only to shield the culprits. “The family of the victim has been saying that they doubt if Nidhi was also involved in the incident.

The police and the BJP were planting evidences to malign the image of the woman,” he alleged. On Wednesday, Anjali’s mother Rekha

Devi told reporters that her daughter has never drunk alcohol in her life.

“I never seen or heard of Nidhi. She never visited our home. She is lying. My daughter never consumed alcohol. She never came home drunk. Nidhi is lying,” Rekha Devi had said.

Lashing out at the BJP and Lieutenant Governor (LG) V K Saxena, Bhardwaj alleged that they have been “misusing” the system to “twist facts and shield the perpetrators”.

“The BJP has been trying to shield the culprits from day one of the incident. They have been trying to cover up the case by tarnishing the image of the victim.

“They have been misusing the whole system, only to twist facts and shield their members. The LG has no intentions to fix the law and order of the city,” he alleged.

Vande Bharat Express pelted with stones in Bihar, not Bengal: Mamata

SAGAR ISLAND (WB), JAN 5 (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday claimed that the Vande Bharat Express was pelted with stones in neighbouring Bihar, and not her state.

She said legal action will be taken against those media outlets that spread “fake news” that the incident took place in West Bengal, bringing a bad name to the state.

“Vande Bharat was pelted with stones in Bihar and not in West Bengal. We will take legal action against those media outlets that telecast fake news that the incident took place in West Bengal and brought a bad name to our state,” Banerjee told reporters before leaving Sagar Island.

“Vande Bharat is nothing special. It is just an old train refurbished with a new engine,” Banerjee, a former Railway minister herself, said. She concluded her two-day visit to the island to oversee the preparations for the Gangasagar Mela that begins on January 8. The Vande Bharat Express was on Tuesday pelted with stones for the second consecutive day. It was inau-

gurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30. Railway authorities on Thursday claimed they have identified those who threw stones at the train.

Eastern Railways CPRO Ekalabya Chakraborty told PTI that after scanning video footage, it was found that Monday’s stone-pelting incident on Vande Bharat Express took place in Malda district and Tuesday’s happened in Kishanganj district of Bihar, and efforts are underway to nab the perpetrators.

The first incident caused a glass door to crack, while the second damaged windows. No injuries to passengers, however, were reported in the incidents.

“After scanning the footage, it was found that

the first incident took place in Malda district of West Bengal and the second in Kishanganj district of Bihar. Further scanning of available footage is underway to pinpoint the exact location and identify the perpetrators,” he said.

FIRs have been lodged in both cases and an awareness campaign started to prevent a recurrence of such incidents, the official said.

Vande Bharat Express between Howrah and New Jalpaiguri railway stations was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30 and commercial service on the route started on January 1.

The incidents sparked a slugfest between the BJP and Trinamool Congress.

The saffron party stuck

to its demand for a probe by National Investigation Agency (NIA).

“Probe is not yet over. We stick to our demand for an NIA probe to bring out the truth. We believe the stone-pelting incidents were a fallout of an incident that took place during the inauguration of the train in Howrah station last week,” BJP state spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya said.

BJP workers had raised ‘Jai Shree Ram’ slogans at the inauguration ceremony, following which Banerjee refused to get on the dais from where the train was flagged off. TMC had criticised the raising of a “political slogan” at a government function, while BJP leaders had tried to downplay the incident.

Sagar Preet Hooda

Saurabh Bhardwaj

Kaushal Yadav

Mamata Banerjee

Microsoft chief Satya Nadella meets PM Modi

NEW DELHI, JAN 5 (PTI): India’s strides in tech, innovation ushering in era of tech-led growth, says PM Modi after meeting Microsoft Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Satya Nadella Microsoft Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said it was inspiring to see India’s focus on digital transformation-led sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

PM Modi said India’s strides in technology and innovation are ushering in an era of tech-led growth, following his meeting with Nadella.

“Glad to have met you Satya Nadella. India’s strides in technology and innovation are ushering in an era of tech-led growth. Our youth is filled with ideas which have the potential to transform the planet,” the prime minister said in a tweet.

Nadella, who is on a four-day visit to India,

met PM Modi and pledged the company’s support in helping the country realise the Digital India vision.

Nadella met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on January 4 and discussed several issues including governance and security in the digital domain. Nadella’s visit to India includes a trip to Mumbai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi.

On his first day in India on Tuesday, Nadella addressed Microsoft Future Ready Leadership Summit

CM to launch 10BedICU Project today

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio would launch the 10BedICU wards across 12 district hospitals and the Tele ICU Hub at Naga Health Authority, Kohima on Friday.

The 10 Bed ICU Project is an innovative Public Private Partnership project between the department of health and family welfare, government of Nagaland, and 10BedICU partner NGOs (eGov Foundation and Karuna Trust) led by eGov Foundation.

The Project was launched in June 2021 as a response to the devastation caused by the COVID 19-second wave.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on July 21, 2021 between the Nagaland Health department and 10BedICU partner NGOs (eGov Foundation and Karuna Trust).

The 10BedICU is being implemented in eight states including Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Manipur, Assam, Nagaland, Sikkim and Meghalaya. 200 ICU units have been set up across the project states. The Tele-ICU Hub and spoke model is showing promising signs of evolving into a transformation healthcare model, especially in resource constraint and remote locations.

(From p-1)

in Mumbai today.

At the Summit, he noted cloud-based services, which are energy efficient in nature, are a “game changer” and adoption of such technologies is going to rise going ahead.

Cloud-based services will be foundational to scaling India’s digital journey and Microsoft is innovating across the board to support the country’s ecosystem of developers, startups, and companies across the industry.

Microsoft has operated

in India for more than 32 years now.

While interacting with top business leaders at the Microsoft Future Ready Leadership Summit, Nadella reinforced the digital imperative for every organization and how the Microsoft Cloud can foster innovation, create broad economic progress, and accelerate the growth of businesses in India.

Nadella also highlighted how organizations big and small, across India are transforming with the power of Microsoft’s tech stack and solutions.

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella on January 4 highlighted the importance of driving inclusivity and empowerment through technology and economic growth and asserted that the company is “very committed to India”.

He was speaking at Microsoft’s Tech for Good and Education showcase, an event that highlighted

the impact created by technology in the areas of philanthropic work and education.

Nadella did a walkthrough, interacting with teachers, students and professionals who are making a difference in the society, by leveraging various Microsoft programs, initiatives and tools.

Microsoft’s top boss further said the Wednesday’s event underlined that technology and economic growth are not an end, rather a “means to an end that we all aspire for.”

He urged the participants to think of growth in terms of social inclusivity.

He advocated the cause of “technology making a difference in community”, and exhorted the participants to keep pushing the company to do more in helping achieve that mission. Microsoft, he said “is very very committed to India”, and went on to add that the company is investing in the country.

Jain shops to remain shut in Dimapur today

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN):

Therie reminds BJP of its ‘Election for...

(From p-1)

He said if both had wanted “a political solution, we would have got it long time back,” and claimed that even the Centre was also aware that Rio and Muivah do not want a solution. He urged the Central government not to keep Nagas in suspense and that if Nagas were to wait for Rio and Muivah to give their nod to solution, they would never get it.

Therie cautioned that in case Assembly elections were announced without implementation of political solution, it would be very bad for the people as they were not united.

He also said NNPGs had already signed Agreed Position with the Centre and since there was no sovereignty or integration issue, the Nagas do not need to wait for other negotiations to conclude. He asserted that two solutions based on separate agreements could

not be implemented in the State.

He therefore demanded that the Agreed Points with NNPGs be implemented for the Nagas of Nagaland

Therie asserted that if Nagas outside Nagaland wanted to wait for more time for a solution, it was upto them but insisted that the Centre should not make Nagas of Nagaland wait any longer.

He accused the 60 MLAs of Nagaland of being indecisive and unable to decide anything –implementation of political solution and on the demand for Frontier Nagaland .

On the demand of Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO) for a separate State, Therie claimed that Congress had appealed to ENPO to reconsider the demand while reminding that Nagaland came into being as a result of blood and sweat of Nagas who had

suffered immensely. He also noted that Nagaland was too small a State to be further divided.

He mentioned that Article 371 (A) was powerful as it gave Nagas the power to stand on their own feet.

He also pointed out that as the Article was enacted especially for all Nagas of Nagaland but would not be valid for Frontier Nagaland.

Therie also appealed to the Centre to not to not divide Nagaland but to address the genuine grievances and issues raised by ENPO. “Justice and equality should be delivered to the ENPO so that they can also stand together with rest of the nation,” he emphasised.

He held all 60 MLAs, including 20 MLAs from ENPO area of being responsible for the current mess and claimed that if a plebiscite was held today, 99% participants would opt for a united Nagaland.

WC,NNPGs vent ire at ‘anti-solution stance’...

(From p-1)

Maintaining that the politics of “election for solution of 2018” had failed, the WC reiterated that the “Indo-Naga political solution is what the Naga tribes and civil societies anticipate.”

The signatories informed all bona fide Sumi members residing under WSH fold have been “directed to strictly follow-up the action till further notice from the WSH.” They also cautioned that if any Sumi leaders or public were threatened or harassed by NSCN (Khango) faction “because of this resolution” then , further course of action would be initiated as deemed fit.

Jain community members will keep their shops and business establishments here closed for 12 hours from 6 am on Friday as a mark of protest against the declaration of their most sacred worship site of Shri Sammed Shikharji (Parasnath Hill) at Giridih in Jharkhand as a tourist spot and opening it for commercial exploitation by Union Ministry of Forest, Environment & Climate Change on the request of Government of Jharkhand in 2019.

9 am on Friday to register their protest against the “insensitive declaration”, which damaged the sanctity of the pilgrimage site since time immemorial.

WC cautioned that “men like Mr. Temjen Imna Along” and their trivial activities would “most certainly ensure a wipe out of BJP from Nagaland” if

election was enforced in Nagaland against the people’s demand for honourable and acceptable negotiated political settlement.

WC has declared that it was left with no other option but to go by the desire and aspiration of the Naga people of “Solution not Election” and added that the 1998 Congress debacle and subsequent punishment was “similarly staring at Nagaland BJP in the face.”

Rupee climbs 37 paise to 82.45 against USD

(From p-1)

Meanwhile, ENPO has convened a meeting on December 7 and invited all ENPO tribal leaders, frontal organisation, Eastern Nagaland Legislators’ Union, Eastern Nagaland Gazetted Officers’ Association. The meeting is likely to decide the fate of the demand for Frontier Nagaland.

The shutdown is part of the protest by all Jain community members of the Northeast.

Shree Digamber Jain Samaj in a press release also appealed to all Jains to assemble at Mahavir Bhawan here at

According to the Samaj, millions of Jain saints had attained their salvation from this sacred hill and claimed that very particle of the hill was worshipped and lakhs of Jains climbed it barefooted, many without eating or drinking anything during the 27-km walk. So also, anybody having any nonveg food or alcoholic drinks or unholy celebrations on the sacred hill after having declared it as a tourist spot was unpardonable sin, the Jain body declared.

It claimed that millions of Jains across the globe were protesting against the move.

MUMBAI, JAN 5 (PTI):

Rallying for the second straight session, the rupee jumped 37 paise to close at 82.45 against the US dollar on Thursday amid a weak greenback overseas. Forex traders said factors like strong Asian peers and crude oil prices trading below USD 80 per barrel also helped the local currency. However, unabated foreign fund outflows and a weak trend in domestic equities dented investor sentiments.

At the interbank

foreign exchange market, the domestic unit opened at 82.75 and touched an intra-day high of 82.50 and a low of 82.80 against the greenback. It finally ended at 82.45, registering a rise of 37 paise over its previous close.

On Wednesday, the rupee recovered from its all-time low level and settled at 82.82 against the dollar.

The dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, declined 0.06 per cent to 104.18.

“The Indian rupee gained for a second day in trot supported by a weaker greenback and stronger regional peers. However, the gain was curtailed amid foreign fund outflows...,” said Dilip Parmar, Research Analyst, HDFC Securities.

The December Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) minutes barely affected the forex market as nothing new came from the minutes, he added.

Satya Nadella and PM Modi

WSH, frontal orgns declare ‘non-cooperation’ to Khango group GoI, ENPO meet inconclusive; talks to resume next week

SNIPPETS

IS terrorists involved in attack on Pak embassy in Kabul killed

KABUL, JAN 5 (IANS): Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan on Thursday said that a network of Islamic State (IS) terrorists involved in the attack on Pakistan’s Embassy in Kabul has been killed in an operation.

On December 2, 2022, the Embassy came under attack with Charge d’Affaires to Afghanistan Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani targeted, reports Dawn news.

Philippine inflation rate rose to 8.1% in Dec

MANILA, JAN 5 (IANS): Year-on-year inflation in the Philippines accelerated to 8.1 per cent in December 2022 from 8 per cent the previous month, the highest since November 2008, authorities said on Thursday.

In a news conference, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) head Dennis Mapa said the the country’s average inflation rate for 2022 stood at 5.8 per cent, higher than the 2021 average at 3.9 per cent, reports Xinhua news agency.

Pakistan officially nominates Turkish Prez for Nobel Peace Prize

ISLAMABAD, JAN 5 (IANS): Pakistan Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani has written to the Norwegian Nobel Committee backing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the next Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to resolve the Ukrainian crisis.

“The Russia-Ukraine war had quickly turned into a nuclear flashpoint that could have ended in catastrophe for the whole world. Due to his untiring efforts, timely and effective interventions with both sides, he single-handedly averted a global disaster,” Sanjrani wrote.

COVID-19: Beijing hospital runs out of beds

BEIJING, JAN 5 (AP): Patients, most of them elderly, are lying on stretchers in hallways and taking oxygen while sitting in wheelchairs as COVID-19 surges in China’s capital Beijing.

The Chuiyangliu hospital in the city’s east was packed with newly arrived patients on Thursday. By mid-morning beds had run out, even as ambulances continued to bring those in need.

Hard-pressed nurses and doctors rushed to take information and triage the most urgent cases.

The surge in severely ill people needing hospital care follows China abandonment of its most severe pandemic restrictions last month after nearly three years of lockdowns, travels bans and school closures that weighed heavily on the economy and prompted street protests not seen since the late 1980s.

It also comes as the the European Union on Wednesday “strongly encouraged” its member states

Patients receive intravenous drips in the emergency ward of a hospital in Beijing, Thursday, Jan. 5. (AP)

to impose pre-departure COVID-19 testing of passengers from China.

Over the past week, EU nations have reacted with a variety of restrictions toward travelers from China, disregarding an earlier commitment to act in unity.

Italy — where the pandemic first exacted a heavy toll in Europe in early 2020 — was the first EU member to require coronavirus tests for airline passengers coming from China, but France and Spain quickly followed

Israel’s new govt unveils plan to weaken Supreme Court

JERUSALEM,

JAN 5

(AP): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s justice minister on Wednesday unveiled the new government’s long-promised overhaul of the judicial system that aims to weaken the country’s Supreme Court.

Critics accused the government of declaring war against the legal system, saying the plan will upend Israel’s system of checks and balances and undermine its democratic institutions by giving absolute power to the most rightwing coalition in the country’s history.

Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a confidant of Netanyahu’s and longtime critic of the Supreme Court, presented his plan a day before the justices are to debate a controversial new law passed by the government

allowing a politician convicted of tax offenses to serve as a Cabinet minister.

“The time has come to act,” he said.

The proposals call for a series of sweeping changes aimed at curbing the powers of the judiciary, including by allowing lawmakers to pass laws that the high court has struck down and effectively deemed unconstitutional.

Levin laid out a law that would empower the country’s 120-seat parliament, or Knesset, to override Supreme Court decisions with a simple majority of 61 votes. Levin also proposed that politicians play a greater role in the appointment of Supreme Court judges and that ministers appoint their own legal advisers, instead of using independent professionals.

EU advises pre-flight Covid tests on passengers from China

BRUSSELS, JAN 5 (AP):

The European Union on Wednesday “strongly encouraged” its member states to impose pre-departure COVID-19 testing of passengers from China, in a move that is likely to upset Beijing and has already been criticised by the global airline industry.

Following a week of talks between EU health experts, the bloc stopped short of fully imposing on all 27 member states such a travel restriction that members like Italy, France and Spain had already implemented.

China has already vehemently rejected such actions and has warned of “countermeasures” if such policies were to be imposed across the bloc.

The Chinese government and European health experts have said there is no pressing need for any blanket restrictions on travel since the coronavirus

variants emerging from China are already prevalent in Europe. On Wednesday the International Air Transport Association, which represents some 300 airlines worldwide, lent its powerful voice to the protests.

“It is extremely disappointing to see this kneejerk reinstatement of measures that have proven ineffective over the last three years,” said IATA Director General Willie Walsh.

“Research undertaken around the arrival of the omicron variant concluded that putting barriers in the way of travel made no difference to the peak spread of infections. At most, restrictions delayed that peak by a few days,” Walsh said.

A day after threatening countermeasures, Chinese government spokesperson Mao Ning said Wednesday that “we sincerely hope that all parties will focus on fighting the

The Khensa Laishir Telongjem with immense joy and honour extends our heartiest congratulations to Dr. Aorenla Longchar daughter of (Y. Chuba Longchar) for achieving D.Th in the Department of Religion (Islam) titled "A Critique on Allama Iqbal's concept of Khudi (The Self) and the Reawakening of Indian Muslims" from the Senate of Serampore University.

Furthermore, the Khensa Laishir Telongjem extends its best wishes in her future endeavours.

epidemic itself, avoid the politicization of COVID.”

Still, the EU seems bent on taking some sort of joint action to ensure incoming passengers from China do not transmit any potential new variants to the continent. Sweden, which holds the EU presidency, said in a statement that “travelers from China need to be prepared for decisions being taken at short notice.”

with their own measures.

That followed the imposition by the US of a requirement that all passengers from China show a negative test result obtained in the previous 48 hours before departure.

China has warned of “countermeasures” if such policies were to be imposed across the bloc.

Still, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Wednesday he was concerned about the lack of

outbreak data from the Chinese government.

At a daily briefing on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing has consistently “shared information and data with the international community in an open and transparent manner.”

“At present, China’s COVID-19 situation is under control,” Mao said. “Also, we hope that the WHO secretariat will take a science-based, objective and impartial position to play a positive role in addressing the pandemic globally.”

The terse language between China and the WHO contrasts sharply with what critics in the US Congress and elsewhere called an overly friendly relationship between the two as the UN organisation sought to probe the origins of the pandemic.

China’s domestically developed vaccines are also considered less effective than the mRNA jabs used elsewhere.

Meanwhile, local au -

thorities in some areas are appealing to the public to avoid traveling during this month’s Lunar New Year holiday, as the last formal restrictions on movement are lifted.

“We recommend that everyone not return to their hometowns unless necessary during the peak of the outbreak,” the government of Shaoyang county in Hunan province in central China said in a notice dated Thursday.

“Avoid visiting relatives and traveling between regions. Minimize travel.”

Similar appeals were issued by Shouxian county in Anhui province southeast of Beijing and the cities of Qingyang in Gansu province in the northwest and Weifang in Shandong on the east coast.

The Weifang government notice said residents should celebrate the holiday with video and phone gatherings.

“Avoid visiting relatives and friends to protect yourself and others,” it said.

in raids of IS hideouts in Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD, JAN 5 (AP): Afghanistan’s ruling Taliban killed eight Islamic State militants and arrested nine others in a series of raids targeting key figures in a spate of attacks in Kabul, a senior Taliban government spokesman said on Thursday.

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Taliban government, said the raids in the capital city and western Nimroz province on Wednesday targeted IS militants who organised recent attacks on Kabul’s Longan Hotel, Pakistan’s embassy and the military airport.

Eight IS fighters, including foreign nationals, were killed and seven others arrested in Kabul, while a separate operation in western Nimroz province resulted in two more IS arrests, Mujahid said.

“These members had a main role in the attack on the Chinese hotel and paved the way for foreign IS members to come to Afghanistan,” Mujahid said

in a tweet. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for a deadly bombing near a checkpoint at the Afghan capital’s military airport on Sunday. IS said that attack was carried out by the same militant who took part in the Longan Hotel assault in mid-December.

The regional affiliate of the Islamic State group — known as the Islamic State in Khorasan Province and a key rival of the Taliban — has increased its attacks in Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover in 2021.

Targets have included Taliban patrols and members of Afghanistan’s Shiite minority.

IS published a photo of the attacker, identifying him as Abdul Jabbar, saying he withdrew safely from the attack on the hotel after he ran out of ammunition. It added he detonated his explosives-laden vest targeting the soldiers gathered at the checkpoint.

Russia’s hypersonic missile-armed ship to patrol global seas

MOSCOW, JAN 5 (AP):

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday sent a frigate armed with the country’s latest Zircon hypersonic missile on a transocean cruise in a show of force as tensions with the West escalate over the war in Ukraine.

Russia touts that the Zircon missile can evade any Western air defenses by flying at an astounding 7,000 miles per hour (11,265 km/h).

Here is a glance at the ship and its weapons.

Commissioned by the navy in 2018 following long trials, the Admiral Gorshkov is the first ship in the new series of frigates which were designed to replace the aging Soviet-built destroyers as a key strike component of the Russian navy.

Armed with an array

of missiles, the ship is 130-meters (427-feet) long and has a crew of about 200. In 2019, it circled the world oceans on a 35,000-nautical mile journey.

The Admiral Gorshkov has served as the main testbed for the latest Russian hypersonic missile, Zircon.

In recent years, the

Zircon

military declared the tests successful and Zircon officially entered service last fall.

Zircon is intended to arm Russian cruisers, frigates and submarines and could be used against both enemy ships and ground targets. It is one of several

hypersonic missiles that Russia has developed.

Putin has hailed Zircon as a potent weapon capable of penetrating any existing anti-missile defenses by flying nine times faster than the speed of sound at a range of more than 1,000 kilometers (over 620 miles).

Putin has emphasized that Zircon gives the Russian military a long-range conventional strike capability, allowing it to strike any enemy targets with precision.

Russia’s hypersonic weapons drive emerged as the U.S. has been working on its own Conventional Prompt Global Strike capability that envisions hitting an adversary’s strategic targets with precision-guid-

ed conventional weapons anywhere in the world within one hour.

Putin heralded Zircon as Russia’s answer to that, claiming that the new weapon has no rival, giving Russia a strategic edge. Months before ordering the invasion of Ukraine, Putin put the U.S. and its NATO allies on notice when he warned that Russian warships armed with Zircon would give Russia a capability to strike the adversary’s “decision-making centers” within minutes if deployed in neutral waters.

Speaking via video link during Wednesday’s sendoff ceremony, Putin again praised Zircon as a “unique weapon” without an “equivalent for it in any country in the world.”

CENTRE CHURCH SCHOOL

a.m to 01:30 p.m contact : 7630856643/ 248507 Principal LShSS DP-56/23

TEACHERS POST VACANCY

1. Maths & Science Teacher (1) – Rs. 13,000/- per month with yearly increment. Qualification: B.Sc with B.Ed. 2. Hindi Teacher (1) – Rs. 8,000/- per month with yearly increment. Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Hindi with fluency in Speaking

Montessori Teacher (1) – Rs. 8,000/- per month with yearly increment. Qualification: Diploma in Montessori/ ECCE.

ITeS (Computer Asstt. Teacher) (1) – Rs. 9,000/- per month with yearly increment. Minimum Qualification: Diploma in Computer Science/IT/Bachelor Degree in Com Application/Science/IT. Walk-in-interview: 10th January, 2023 (10:00 am onward) at Good Shepherd Baptist School, Kikrüma (Near Kikrüma Baptist Church) Original documents required. Feel free to address to the School Managing Director and enquire : 8974864636. K-35/23

JOB VACANCY

Applications are invited for the post of :

(1) WARDEN (Male & Female) with Graduate Degree either Theological or Secular Background (Starting Salary Rs. 9000/- P.M) (2) SECURITY (Male & Female) with a minimum Class-10 qualification and a Christian Background. ( Starting Salary Rs. 7000/- P.M).

For a Reputed Residential School in Dimapur. Applicant must be a Committed Christian. The jobs require you to live within the campus where Food and Lodging are provided

If interested, please Contact : 06909150907

Moanekshi Jamir

Arenchila Longchar President, KLT Secretary, KLT

has undergone a series of tests, including being launched at various practice targets. The

New Zircon hypersonic cruise missile launched by the frigate named ‘Admiral of the Fleet of the Soviet Union Gorshkov’. (AP)

Rapper Raja Kumari collabs with John Legend

Indo-American rapper, songwriter and singer Raja Kumari has collaborated with musician John Legend for a track called ‘Keep Walking’.

The duo co-curated a catchy anthem that is a rallying cry for those driven by self-belief to work for collective progress. The artists have been brought together by a brand new platform - Walkers & Co. - which celebrates the power of the

collective, inspired by bold steps of individuals challenging the status quo and charting an evolved course for the future. The platform salutes those who stride bravely towards collective progress with this anthem.

Raja Kumari says: “The Walkers & Co. platform celebrates bold steps and the Keep Walking Anthem, which comes straight from the heart, is a celebration of the same spirit. The

song talks about authenticity, resilience and the fire that burns within all of us.

“It was fun exploring a different space, both musically and lyrically. I had a great time co-writing and jamming with John Legend who, like his name, is a true original. It’s my first-ever collab with the Walkers & Co. platform and I can’t wait for fans to listen to this... and keep walking to this!” (IANS)

Break the habit: 10 ways to help tame your soft addictions

Understand Soft Addictions

Soft addictions aren’t on the same level as hard addictions such as smoking or alcohol abuse. Instead, they are behaviors that are fine in moderation but become a problem when you do them too often. Habits such as stress-shopping, binge-watching shows, and gossiping can cost time and money that you could be using to achieve your goals.

Decide What Soft Addictions

Are Causing Problems

Because soft addictions are normal behaviors that can even be healthy when used moderately, everyone’s addiction will be different. To decide if a habit is a soft addiction, you’ll need to evaluate its effect on your life. Watching late-night TV may be a way to relax for one person, but it may be a way to avoid relationship issues for another.

Learn About Dopamine

The brain chemical dopamine is associated with developing pleasant habits. Each time you engage in a pleasurable activity, your brain releases dopamine. Every time you do the activity, the dopamine release strengthens the habit. When you try to quit, your body craves the dopamine hit.

Replace Soft Addictions With Healthy Habits

Once you’ve identified your soft addiction, try replacing it with a healthy habit. For instance, if you’re trying to quit eating dessert, go for a walk after dinner instead. Alternative habits can help counteract your desire to engage in a soft addiction.

Visualize Your Success

Another helpful practice for breaking soft addictions is to visualize what success looks like. Mentally picturing yourself avoiding temptation can give you practice in your new behaviors. If you have trouble resisting unhealthy foods when eating out, visualize yourself at your favorite restaurant ordering a healthy dish instead.

Find Your Triggers

You’ll have more success breaking soft addictions if you figure out what triggers them. Keep a log of what was happening right before you engaged in your soft addiction. Write down the events and circumstances as well as your emotions. Try to avoid triggers if you can, although that may not always be possible.

Identify Negative Thinking Patterns

Identify what negative

thoughts or emotions you usually experience when you give in to a soft addiction. You may find that you overgeneralize, jump to conclusions, magnify negative consequences, or have an “all or nothing” attitude.

Replacing these negative thoughts with positive ones can help you put things in perspective and disrupt your bad habits.

Exercise Your Self Control

When you resist temptation, you temporarily deplete your self-control. You may find it harder to avoid another temptation soon afterward. However, like your muscles, exercising your self-control can cause it to grow over time. Any regular act of self-control will gradually increase your ability to withstand all sorts of temptation.

Enlist Support

Breaking soft addictions isn’t easy. Your brain is hardwired to enjoy them. You spend much of your day unconsciously engaging in habits, both good and bad. Enlisting the support of your family, friends, and coworkers to avoid your triggers, resist temptation,

and establish new habits can make the process easier.

Manage Your Stress Stress contributes to addictive behaviors, bad habits, and other poor lifestyle choices by interfering with your healthy brain processes. Many people use soft addictions as a coping method for handling stress.

Learning to regulate your stress by exercising, getting enough sleep, and other relaxation techniques can eliminate the need to use soft addictions to cope with stress.

Prince Harry is making some major allegations regarding his ongoing rift with his brother, Prince William.

According to a new report from The Guardian which has obtained an excerpt from his upcoming tell-all memoir, Spare, Harry claims William physically attacked him after the pair got into an argument over Harry’s wife, Meghan Markle.

Per the outlet, Harry describes a confrontation at his London home in 2019 in which the Duke of Sussex says William called Meghan “difficult,” “rude” and “abrasive,” something Harry called a “parrot[ing

of] the press narrative” about his wife.

What started as a conversation, quickly turned into a shouting match -a similar situation to the one Harry discussed in his and his wife’s recent

Hansal Mehta to commence filming on series ‘Gandhi’ later this year

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta has revealed he will start shooting for his much-anticipated series “Gandhi” in late 2023.

Backed by Applause Entertainment, the series is based on historian and author Ramachandra Guha’s two books -- “Gandhi before India” and “Gandhi-The Years that Changed the World”. “I have more exciting stories to tell - particularly the show on Mahatma Gandhi which is going to be a big series & will commence principal photography later 2023. The preparation is going strong in all directions,” Mehta said in a statement.

The series will star Pratik Gandhi as Mahatma Gandhi. It marks the director-actor duo’s third collaboration after “Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story” and “Baai”. Siddhartha Basu is attached as historical consultant, factual advisor and creative consultant on the project. Mehta’s other upcoming projects include the series “Scoop” and “Scam 2003” and an untitled film with Kareena Kapoor Khan. (PTI)

According to Harry,

the altercation resulted in a visible injury to his back and is said to be one of many heated moments between the pair, which are detailed in the upcoming memoir.

Insults were exchanged before Harry says William swore while stepping towards him. Harry, now scared of his older brother, said he walked to the kitchen, where an angry William followed. Harry claims he tried to calm his brother down and offered him a glass of water.

“Willy, I can’t speak to you when you’re like this,” Harry w rites, per The Guardian. The excerpt continues, “He set down the

water, called me another name, then came at me. It all happened so fast. So very fast. He grabbed me by the collar, ripping my necklace, and he knocked me to the floor. I landed on the dog’s bowl, which cracked under my back, the pieces cutting into me. I lay there for a moment, dazed, then got to my feet and told him to get out.”

Harry claims that William urged him to hit back, referencing fights that they had growing up. Harry said he refused to do so, prompting William to leave. He later returned, Harry says, “looking regretful, and apologized.”

(Entertainment Tonight)

Medically Reviewed by Carmelita Swiner,

MD

Naga artistes Mengu Suokhrie, Virie and Moko Koza with ZVYSO president Vizosielie Khoubve after their performance at ZVYSO sports meet cum night extravaganza at the village ground on Thursday. The three artistes enthralled the players and village folks with various popular songs. (NP)

Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan. Harry writes that William accused him of acting like an heir, unable to understand why his younger brother was not happy to be “the spare.”

Prince Harry

Prince William

Raja Kumari

John Legend

ZVYSO sports meet concludes

seat. In this regard, he challenged the sportspersons to give their best, dedicate more and bring laurels to the state through their efforts.

He said Nagaland had been a front runner in the football scene in the past however, sadly things had changed now. He called on the youths to reclaim the spot by being sincere and committed in their efforts.

Lt Rev. Zhadiu football tourney on January 9

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN): The late Rev. Zhadiu Nagi Memorial Football Trophy organised by Dream Team will begin on January 9 at Tsiepama village local ground under Chumoukedima district.

Spurs bounce back with win over Palace

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 5 (NPN):

A 3-day Zhadima Village Youth & Sports Organization (ZVYSO) sports meet 2023 culminated at Zhadima village ground, some 21 km away from here on Thursday.

Kimho Khel II emerged as the winner in the men’s football tournament beating Kimho Khel I in the final match. While

Thejaneilhou Mere from Kimho Khel II was adjudged as the player of the tournament.

In the men’s volleyball, Zhadi Khel II emerged as the winner by beating Kimho Khel II in the final.

In the women’s volleyball, Basa Khel became the winner by beating Pheluozou Khel in the final.

Seyiechütuo Chüpuo from Zhadi II and Kevineiü Sanchu from Basa

Khel were adjudged as the players of the tournament in men’s and women’s volleyball respectively.

In the valedictory programme, guest of honour, advisor for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Dr. Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire urged the players to give their best. He said there were times in the past when sports was regarded as a pastime activity however, now it has taken the front

KBC sports meet culminates

Renowned Naga artistes including, Mengu Suokhrie, Virie, Moko Koza and Mhasizolie Metsieo enthralled the audience with some special numbers.

The three-day event began on Tuesday with Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio as the chief guest during the inaugural.

The meet saw various events including Naga wrestling, football, volleyball men and women. The new team of ZVYSO would be headed by Kekhriesilie Khoubve as the president.

Kyrgios pulls out of Aus Open warm-up event at Adelaide

CANBERRA, JAN 5 (IANS):

Top-ranked Australian male tennis player Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from the Adelaide International as he races to recover from an ankle injury before the Australian Open.

A press release from the organisers informed that the tournament was to give platform to the upcoming youngsters to develop their skills while also keeping in mind to keep the footballers engaged in sporting activities.

The champion of the tournament will receive a cash prize of Rs. 30,000 along with trophy while runners-up will receive a cash prize of Rs. 20,000.

The tournament is only open for villages belonging to Piphema area with two guest players allowed in a match.

The tournament will conclude on January 14.

LONDON, JAN 5 (IANS):

Harry Kane scored twice as Tottenham Hotspur returned to form with a 4-0 win away to Crystal Palace and revived their chances of a top-four finish.

Palace were the better side in the first 45 minutes on Wednesday night, but failed to take their chances and were made to suffer when Kane netted in the 48th and 53rd minute to take the game almost out of reach.

Matt Doherty and Son

Heung-min added further goals in the 68th and 72nd minutes to take some pressure off coach Antonio Conte, who had been criticized after recent poor results.

It was honours even in the game between two Spanish coaches, as Unai Emery’s Aston Villa came back from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Julen Lopetegui’s Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Daniel Podence put Wolves ahead in the 12th minute, but Danny Ings showed his poacher’s in -

stinct to level the game 12 minutes from time, reports Xinhua. Nottingham Forest climbed out of the bottom three with a 1-0 win away to Southampton.

Taiwo Awoniyi swept home the only goal of the match in the 27th minute, leaving Southampton with six consecutive defeats and also dropping Everton into the bottom three as a consequence.

Wednesday night’s final match saw Leeds United and West Ham draw 2-2.

Manchester City announces new partnership with Jio

MANCHESTER/MUMBAI, JAN 5 (IANS): Manchester City has announced a new regional partnership with Jio Platforms Limited (Jio), that will see India’s leading digital services brand become the Club’s Official Mobile Communications Network Partner in India.

KOHIMA, JAN 5(NPN):

The Koinonia Baptist Church (KBC) sports meet which began on December 28, 2022 at Chiephobozou playground, NAPO building and IG Stadium in Kohima culminated on January 5.

The 9-day long sports

meet was participated by teams from all fellowship of the church namely; women Tenyidie, women Nagamese, youth women, men 1 & 2, Jr CYE women, men 1 & 2, men’s Nagamese & men’s Tenyidie, Koinonia Prayer Centre men & women, United

FC women and men competing for both indoor and outdoor games and sports. Track and field and recreations were conducted for Sunday school children. The football match officials were from the Kohima District Referee Association (KDRA).

Organisers in Adelaide on Thursday announced that Kyrgios will not compete in week two of the tournament, which is named “Adelaide International 2”, due to start on January 9. It comes days after the world No. 22 withdrew from Australia’s team for the United Cup due to an ankle injury. It means Kyrgios will enter the Australian Open, which begins on January 16, without having played a competitive match since October. There are two ATP-WTA Adelaide Internationals this month, with Novak Djokovic headlining the first one this week, while Kyrgios was due to play in the second next week.

The partnership was enabled and supported by RISE Worldwide, a Reliance initiative, India’s largest sports and entertainment company.

Through this partnership, Man City and Jio will collaborate on a variety of engaging experiences that fans will be able to access through Jio’s digital ecosystem comprising JioTV, MyJio, Jio STB, JioEngage and other applications and platforms, in addition to exclusive giveaways and in-market activities.

As part of the new agreement, Man City’s OTT platform CITY+

What can Ronaldo expect from Saudi Pro League soccer?

RIYADH, JAN 5 (AP):

As Cristiano Ronaldo was quick to point out, he has spent his storied career playing for the “most important” clubs in Europe.

That also meant playing in the most popular leagues in the world in England, Spain and Italy for Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

His move to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, however, signals a step into the unknown. The Saudi Pro League is unlikely to have been on the radar of the majority of his loyal following, but it is where the next and likely last chapter of his career will be played out after signing a two-and-a-halfyear contract with Al Nassr.

He will also hope to compete in the Asian Champions League next season if his new club qualifies for the biggest competition in Asian soccer. “In Europe my work is done,” Ronaldo said when

presented by Al Nassr in Riyadh on Tuesday.

But what can the 37-year-old five-time Champions League winner expect from Saudi soccer? “I know the league is very competitive. People don’t know that, but I know because I saw many games,” he said. He joins a team that is aiming to become Saudi champions for the 10th time, having last won the title in 2019.

The Saudi Pro League, in its current guise, was established in 2008, but the competition dates to 1976. Current champion Al Hilal is the most successful team, having won 18 titles and four Asian Champions Leagues.

Like Al Nassr, it is also based in the Saudi capital of Riyadh and was linked with a move for Ronaldo. While Saudi soccer may not be widely watched in the western world, it is hugely popular in Arabic countries.

More than 1.25 million spectators attended matches in the 2021-22 season, according to official statistics, with a television audience of more than 215 million

Luiz Gustavo already at Al Nassr, as well as ex-Arsenal and Napoli goalkeeper David Ospina. Former Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo plays for Al Hilal.

Ever Banega, who has played for Atletico Madrid, Valencia, Inter Milan and Sevilla, is now at Al Shabab.

will be integrated into the JioTV platform providing fans in India further access to exclusive club content including match highlights, live Manchester City Women’s team and Elite Development Squad fixtures, matchday content and City Studios documentaries.

JioTV is India’s leading digital video platform, giving users access to over 900 channels in 16 languages across 12 genres, making it the second biggest OTT platform globally with over 350 million downloads.

In addition to the Jio brand featuring across the club’s in-stadia and digital assets, as part of the new deal Jio’s associate brands, RISE and Viacom18 will also leverage several partnership rights across their football and sports offerings.

Akash Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jio Platforms Limited), said: “We are excited to announce Jio’s exclusive partnership with Manchester City in India through which we will

present City fans with experiences through a multitude of digitally powered immersive initiatives. We believe both brands share similar values of bringing transformational impact to their communities and through this partnership, we endeavour to bring the best of football to the sports communities and Man City fans in India.”

Ferran Soriano, Chief Executive Officer, City Football Group, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Jio as an Official Partner of Manchester City today. The Club has a passionate and growing fanbase in India and we are continually exploring new ways to provide greater fan experiences for our followers in the region and around the globe, particularly within the digital and technology space. We look forward to working with Jio as we develop these opportunities throughout the partnership.”

Serie A: Inter end Napoli’s unbeaten run; Juve, Milan win

during that campaign. And Ronaldo is not the only international player to make his way to Saudi Arabia, with Brazilian former Bayern Munich midfielder

Statistics produced last year stated the league of 16 teams has 128 international players. But none as big as Ronaldo. “Cristiano is one of the best players in the world. In the history of football he is a legend,” Al Nassr coach Rudi Garcia said on Tuesday. “It is an honour for sure for me, but also for Al Nassr to welcome Cristiano.”

DIMAPUR, JAN 5 (NPN): The 12th edition of the Lotha Football Championship 2023 will be held from January 1730 at local ground, Wokha. The championship will have a prize money of Rs. 2,10,000/- along with medal & certificate besides various individual prize like player of the tourney, highest goal scorer, best goalkeeper, best defence, best midfielder, best discipline team.

The last date for form submission will be January 14. Interested football team can collect the form from Wokha Hardware opposite Vishal Mart Tsumang B.

ROME, JAN 5 (IANS):

Italy’s Serie A restarted with leaders Napoli seeing their unbeaten run ended as Inter Milan inflicted the season’s first defeat on the Partenopei with a 1-0 victory.

Serie A had been on a World Cup-enforced hiatus since November 14. Napoli were flying high before Wednesday’s game as they led the table with 41 points and were the only unbeaten side in Europe’s top five leagues, while Inter Milan had picked up 30 points after 15 rounds. Napoli dominated possession at San Siro, but it was the home side that scored the only goal in the 55th minute, as Federico

Dimarco crossed from the left and Edin Dzeko steered a header into the net. Napoli’s defeat allowed second-placed Milan to cut the gap to 5 points as the Rossoneri won 2-1 away at Salernitana thanks to goals from Rafael Leao and Sandro Tonali. Juventus registered their 7th consecutive win as the Bianconeri edged past Cremonese 1-0 with Arkadiusz Milik’s free-kick in stoppage time, reports Xinhua. The 2 capital clubs were locked on 30 points after Wednesday as Roma beat Bologna 1-0 thanks to Lorenzo Pellegrini’s penalty, while Lazio fumbled a 1-0 lead to lose 2-1 to Lecce.

Dr. Nicky Kire with the two football finalists at the village ground on Thursday. (NP)

Tottenham Hotspur teammates celebrate after scoring against Crystal Palace

Cristiano Ronaldo

12th Lotha Football C’ship from Jan 17

Team Jr CYE B (white) and United FC (orange) along with match officials and others before the final match of Rev. Zotuo football trophy.

Santosh Trophy: Arunachal hold Nagaland; Goa into knockout stage

league match. Clubbed in the Group III with Goa, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, it was Goa and Nagaland fighting for the top spot but Nagaland only manage a draw, while Goa beat Tamil by 3-0 which means Goa leapfrog Nagaland on better goal difference +5 having the same 11 points in the group tally.

While Nagaland qualification fate will be decided when second best three will join the top-6 group leaders in the knockout stage. Group D and F are yet to play any match.

DIMAPUR, JAN 5

(NPN): Arunachal Pradesh came from a goal down to snatch a draw against Nagaland 1-1 as Goa defeated Tamil Nadu by 3-0 to progress to the knockout stage of the 76th National Football Championship for Hero Santosh Trophy 2022-23 played here in Kokrajhar, Assam on Thursday.

Nagaland will still have slender chance to progress with three best

second-placed teams qualifying for the Final Rounds.

In a must win match for Nagaland, the team started brightly but lack of finishing from the striker’s end saw the first half in a goalless draw. They needed midfielder Haotinmang Victor Thomsong to score through a long-range goal that gave Nagaland the lead in the 72nd minute. However, 10 minutes later, Arunachal striker Taba Heli found the equaliser

to make it 1-1. Nagaland team were left frustrated but had to be contended with a draw at the end of the final whistle.

While, Goa manage to beat Tamil Nadu by 3-0 in the later match to top the table of Group C. M Faheez scored two goals while T Savio Dias added a goal for Goa team. Three goals prove to be decisive as they top the table on better goal difference ahead of Nagaland in the last

Cape Verde names national stadium in honour of football legend Pele

followed by several countries around the world,” Silva said in a statement posted on Facebook.

“With the physical disappearance of Edson Arantes de Nascimento, King Pele, who soon became a planetary figure, an icon of the masses showing that sport has the power to unite the world, it is now our wish to pay tribute to him.

Mention be made that the Senior National Football Championships was played in a new format that see 36 states fighting it out across six groups for a chance to make it to the final Round. The six group toppers, along with three best second-placed teams will qualify for the Final Rounds. Railways and Services will get direct entry along with the hosts.

The Nagaland team was led by coach Mughato Aye, team manager- Akhihito P. Zhimo and physioZakieletuo Seletsu. Sinenlo Kath is the captain of Nagaland team.

NEW DELHI, JAN 5

(IANS): Cape Verde’s national stadium is to be renamed after football legend Pele, the country’s prime minister Ulisses Correira e Silva said.

The 15,000-seat Estadio Nacional de Cabo Verde will be called the ‘Pele Stadium’ in honour of the football legend who died due to cancer recently.

The African nation became the first country in the world to name a stadium after Pele following FIFA chief Gianni Infantino’s request.

Pele, regarded as one of the best players of all

time, passed away on December 29 at the Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He was 82.

Following Pele’s death, Infantino paid tribute to the three-time World Cup winner at his memorial service and urged member associations to rename a football facility in their respective countries after Pele.

“As a tribute and recognition to this figure that makes us all great, I manifest the intention of naming our national stadium as ‘Pele Stadium,’ in an initiative that, I believe, will be

“Cape Verde and Brazil have a history and culture that go hand in hand, considering they are two sister countries, linked by language and very similar identities.

“Pele was and always will be a reference in Brazil, in our Portuguese-speaking countries and the rest of the world, being an idol that links several generations,” the statement added.

Pele won three World Cups with Brazil and 10 league titles with Santos, his club team, as well as the 1977 North American Soccer League championship with the New York Cosmos.

HISAR, JAN 5 (IANS): In the highly anticipated semifinals clash, the record sixtime Asian medalist Shiva Thapa proved his mettle by recording a remarkable win against the 2019 World Championships bronze medalist Manish Kaushik and advanced to the final of the 6th Elite Men’s National Boxing Championships here on Thursday.

Having clashed against each other on several occasions in the past, Assam’s Thapa and Services Sports Control Board’s (SSCB) Kaushik have produced some blockbuster contests with this encounter being no different. Both pugilists started out aggressively from the get go with neither shying away from showcasing their strength and establishing their dominance over the other. As the bout progressed, Thapa utilized his experience to take charge of the matchup by judging his opponent’s attacks smartly to dodge them with his quick feet while landing more accurate punches.

Ultimately, the 2015 World Championship bronze meda list was suc -

Raducanu suffers injury scare ahead of Australian

SL beat India by 16 runs to level series

PUNE, JAN 5 (IANS):

Open

LONDON, JAN 5 (AGENCIES): Britain’s Emma Raducanu retired at 6-0 5-7 in her second-round match against Slovakian Viktoria Kuzmova at the WTA 250 Auckland Classic on Thursday after rolling her ankle, casting doubt on her participation at this month’s Australian Open.

Former U.S. Open champion Raducanu swept the first set in 22 minutes but faltered in the second and had her left ankle examined during a medical time-out before leaving court in tears after being unable to complete the first point of the decider.

“I’ve put a lot of physical work in the last few months and I’ve been feeling good and optimistic,” Raducanu was quoted as saying by Stuff Media.

“So to be stopped by a freak injury, rolling an ankle is pretty disappointing, in the first week as well. I thought I was playing some pretty decent tennis.

Earlier, Coco Gauff beat fellow American Sofia Kenin 6-4 6-4 to set up a quarter-final against China’s Zhu Lin, who outlasted Venus Williams 3-6 6-2 7-5 in a rain-hit match that ran two hours and 23 minutes.

A brilliant half-century by all-rounder Axar Patel and his blazing 91-run partnership with Suryakumar Yadav (51) went in vain as India failed to recover from early setbacks and lost to Sri Lanka by 16 runs in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium, here on Thursday.

Axar Patel hammered 6 sixes and two boundaries in his brilliant 31-ball 65 and Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Mavi (26 off 15) dragged India from a precarious position to condition when they needed 20 off the last six deliveries.

But in the end, the task was too stiff for the Gujarat batter who played some sensational shots including three sixes off successive deliveries in the 14th over.

Dasun Shanaka got him out in the final over as India’s hopes ended. India looked in deep trouble after losing four wickets for 34 runs and it became 57/5 in the 10th over before Yadav and Patel came together for a 91-run partnership that had the 30,460 spectators rocking and cheering. However, in the end, it proved too good to last as they were restricted to 190/8, falling short by 16 runs as Sri Lanka levelled the three-match series 1-1.

It looked like India’s

chase would fizzle out as they lost four wickets in the first five overs with only 35 runs on the board.

Ishan Kishan (2) was done in by a superb inswinger by Rajitha as he swung at one pitched wide and the ball sneaked in to hit the stumps. Gill played a nothing-shot, trying to drive one that pitched outside off, edging behind to Mendis.

Debutant Rahul Tripathi faced eventful five balls in the middle. Suryakumar, who survived a clear runout chance, brought out his customary 360-degree play and after Deepak Hooda was out for 9, found an able ally in Axar Patel as they brought up the hundred of the innings.

Patel hammered

Wanindu Hasaranga for a hat-trick of sixes in the 14th over and with Suryakumar

a six, the over cost Sri Lanka 26 runs. They scored 15 runs off the next over -- thus ending up hitting 6 sixes in two overs as Axar Patel blazed his way to a half-century off 20 balls, hitting two fours and 6 sixes.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 206/6 in 20 overs (Kusal Mendis 52, Dasun Shanaka 56 not out, Charith Asalanka 37, Pathum Nissanka 33; Umran Malik 3-48, Axar Patel 2-24) beat India 190/8 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 51, Axar Patel 65, Shivam Mavi 26; Dasun Shanaka 2-4, Kasun Rajitha 2-22, Dilshan Madushanka 2-45) by 16 runs

National Boxing: Thapa cruises into final with win over Manish

head to head against Narender in the finals.

Meanwhile, Abhinash Jamwal of Himachal Pradesh stunned the 2022 Commonwealth Games bronze medalist Rohit Tokas of RSPB in the 67 kg semi-finals. The closely contested bout saw both pugilists give it their all but Jamwal’s determination helped him edge out his counterpart and secure a 4-3 win after the bout was reviewed. He will face Akash of SSCB in his finals bout.

cessful in having the upper hand over Kaushik and registered a resounding 5-0 win by unanimous decision. He will face the 2019 World Youth Championships silver medalist Ankit Narwal who is representing Railways Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) in the finals of the 63.5 kg category.

The 2021 Asian champion Sanjeet (92kg) who is representing SSCB put up a show of strength as he

ISL: Ogbeche treble leads Hyderabad FC to win over FC Goa

FATORDA, JAN 5

(AGENCIES): Bartholomew Ogbeche produced a vintage performance as Hyderabad FC reclaimed the top spot in the Indian Super League (ISL), after beating FC Goa 3-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Thursday.

Ogbeche, who had previously scored only three goals in the season coming into the game, put Hyderabad in front on two occasions before sealing the result at the end. Halicharan Narzary picked out Ogbeche from the left flank, and the Nigerian striker placed his header to perfection to give Hyderabad FC the lead in the 20th minute. Goa got its first real chance in the 28th minute when Edu Bedia played an outstanding pass from deep in midfield, but Noah Sadaoui couldn’t find the right contact.

The half-chance led to a period of domination for the Goans. Hyderabad FC was happy to sit back, get into a compact shape,

chance to take the lead a few minutes later, thanks to Joel Chianese, but his shot was cleared off the line by Aibanbha Dohling. Sadaoui was finding a lot of joy on the left flank in the second half, and Hyderabad FC seemed to have no answers for him. On one occasion it looked like he’d set up Mohamed Fares to take the lead, but the goal was chalked offside.

Goa enjoyed most of the possession but wasn’t able to turn that into goals. Ogbeche made them pay for it by putting Hyderabad in the lead in the 79th minute. The ISL’s all-time top goal scorer got on the end of a rebound and smashed the ball into the roof of the net to give Hyderabad FC the lead. He got his hat-trick in the 90th minute with a sublime header, confirming all three points for Hyderabad FC.

Hyderabad next will host Chennaiyin FC in Hyderabad on January 12. Goa will be up next against NorthEast United FC on January 15.

secured a comfortable victory against Ashish Bhandor of Himachal Pradesh. Showcasing his power and supreme technical ability, Sanjeet gave his opponent no chance to comeback in the bout and sealed his place in the finals after the referee stopped contest (RSC) in the second round.

Sanjeet’s SSCB teammates, the 2022 Asian Championships bronze medalists Sumit (75kg) and

Narender (+92kg) reigned supreme in their semis bouts with 5:0 triumphs.

While Sumit defeated Tinderpal Singh of Punjab, Narender won against Jaipal Singh of Punjab and advanced to the finals.

Representing RSPB, Sagar (+92kg) was squaring off against Akash of Delhi. The 2022 Commonwealth Games silver medalist made lightwork of his opponent and will be going

Two-time Commonwealth Games bronze medalist Mohammad Hussamuddin who is representing SSCB blanked Ashish Kumar of Himachal Pradesh to win by unanimous decision. He will take on Sachin of RSPB in the finals of the 57 kg category.

The RSPB duo of Govind Sahani (48kg) and Varinder Singh (60kg) secured their berths in the final with identical 5-0 wins over Neeraj Swami of Delhi and Suni Chouhan of Uttar Pradesh respectively.

The finals bout of all weight categories will be played on Friday.

Adelaide International 1: Djokovic survives Halys test to sail into quarters

ADELAIDE,

JAN 5

(IANS): Novak Djokovic faced a stern test by Frenchman Quentin Halys as he battled into the Adelaide International 1 quarterfinals with a 7-6(3), 7-6(5) win on Thursday.

Djokovic will next play Canadian Denis Shapovalov, who registered a comfortable win over Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-3, the second straight qualifier he has subdued following his first-round win over Australian Rinky Hijikata.

“It was a great performance from my opponent today. I want to congratulate him for great quality and a great fight,” Adelaide International quoted Djokovic as saying. “Tough luck but he played like a top-10 player today no doubt.

“As far as my game goes, I feel good on the court. I didn’t have such a great start; I lost my serve early. He was serving really well, fast, big serves, hitting his spots in the box very well.

“Just difficult to play in this kind of court that is really fast. It kind of favours the server. If you’re serving well, it’s tough to break the serve of a big server like him, so two tiebreaks were probably the most realistic score of today’s match. Just glad to overcome the tough challenge.”

Playing his second singles match of 2023, the Serb was trailing 5-2 in the first set as world No.64

Halys broke the top seed in the opening game. But the

world No. 7 fought back at the crunch point in time to force the tiebreak. The second set also witnessed a close fight as Halys hung tough with Djokovic, but the 21-time Grand Slam champion upped his game in the tie-breaker to progress to the last eight.

The 35-year-old is back on Australian soil for the first time since his visa was withdrawn last year and he was deported on the eve of the Australian Open over his Covid vaccination status.

:248267,8798162009 e-mail-npostadvt@gmail.com, R.N. 40978/90

Match in action between Nagaland (sky blue) and Arunachal Pradesh (white).

Shiva Thapa (left) after winning against Manish Kaushik in the semifinal bout.

Novak Djokovic

Bartholomew Owogbalor Ogbeche of Hyderabad FC celebrates after scoring against FC Goa.

Yadav helping himself to

Sri Lankan’s Wanindu Hasaranga celebrates with teammates after the wicket of Indian batter Deepak Hooda. (PTI)

and wait for the half-time whistle. The half ended with Hyderabad FC leading 1-0.

In the 54th minute, Sadaoui and Iker Guarrotxena combined to test Hyderabad FC’s goalkeep-

er Gurmeet Singh, who made a great save to deny Guarrotxena’s volley after picking up a pass from the left.

Moments later, FC Goa came up with a similar move but found success.

Sadaoui held up the ball on the left before floating it for a rushing Redeem Tlang to power the ball into the back of the net and level the score. The game had opened up by now, and Hyderabad FC had a great