Bihar Resident Shot Dead by Terrorists in J&K's Anantnag

The situation in minority-dominated Lilong Chingjao area in Manipur's Thoubal district, where four villagers were gunned down by unidentified assailants, remained calm but tense on Tuesday as additional security forces were deployed in the area. Representational Image/PTI The situation in minority-dominated Lilong Chingjao area in Manipur's Thoubal district, where four villagers were gunned down by unidentified assailants, remained calm but tense on Tuesday as additional security forces were deployed in the area. Representational Image/PTI Srinagar: A worker of Bihar identified as Raja Shah was shot dead by suspected militants in Jammu and Kashmir's southern Anantnag district Wednesday night. The police said that the victim was targetted by the gunmen in the Bilal Colony of the Jablipora area of Anantnag's Bijbehara tehsil where he lived in a rented accommodation. He had received bullet injuries in his neck and abdomen, leaving him in a pool of blood, the police and hospital sources here. He was declared brought dead on arrival at Bijbehara's sub-district hospital, the sources added. A police source said that Raja Shah son of Shankar Shah was working in the area as a seasonal labourer. The police said they have registered a case of murder and taken up investigations. Meanwhile, police and CRPF parties have been fanned out in the area to capture the assailants dead or alive, the sources said.

April 19 polling round the corner, two tribals shot in Manipur violence

Gunmen killed tribal volunteers in Manipur before elections. A civilian was shot in Thoubal district. Intruders triggered a clash with village volunteers, leading to casualties and arrests, raising security concerns before polls.

Manipur Violence: Massive Arms Haul Found in Thoubal district The Sentinel Assam

Manipur Violence: Massive Arms Haul Found in Thoubal districtThe Sentinel Assam

Violence resurfaces in Manipur: Three injured in clashes, security forces deployed

Violence erupted once again in Manipur after a brief lull, with three people injured in clashes in Heirok of Thoubal District, Tengnoupal district, and Pallel of Kakching District. The firing between two groups from Heirok and Tengnoupal has been ongoing since the previous evening. Following the incident, irate Village Volunteers and the public of Heirok retaliated against the armed miscreants.

1 injured in fresh gunfight in Manipur

IMPHAL, April 12: One person was injured after a fresh gunfight broke out between armed village volunteers and unidentified gunmen near Heirok village in Manipurs Thoubal district on Friday, police said. Unidentified gunmen fired towards Heirok village in the early hours of Friday prompting the village volunteers to retaliate, they said. The exchange of fire []

Manipur: Security forces seize arms and ammunition in Thoubal and Kakching

Guwahati: Security forces deployed in the Northeast state of Manipur have recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition, explosives and war-like stores during different operations conducted over the past 24 hours. Acting on specific intelligence input on the presence of arms and ammunition in Thoubal districts Pechi area, troops of the Assam Rifles, along with [] The post Manipur: Security forces seize arms and ammunition in Thoubal and Kakching appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .

Manipur: Fresh firing in Thoubal district; one injured EastMojo

Manipur: Fresh firing in Thoubal district; one injuredEastMojo

Manipur: Two Meitei village volunteers injured in renewed ethnic violence

Imphal: Renewed ethnic violence has erupted after a month-long hiatus, resulting in injuries to two village volunteers belonging to the Meitei community in the inter-districts of Thoubal and Tengnoupal of Manipur for the second consecutive day, officials said. Armed individuals descended from the Pengang Kuki village hillslopes and initiated gunfire towards Ishingchaibi village, located approximately [] The post Manipur: Two Meitei village volunteers injured in renewed ethnic violence appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .

How the Indian National Congress is establishing its digital presence before the General Elections

Remember the BJPs 2014 campaign? The campaign that made Prime Minister Narendra Modi a household name. You could find kids from the remotest part of the country and thered be a high chance they would recall the name Modi before any mainstream celebrity. That is what marketing coupled with organic charisma can do, especially when the marketing is meticulously planned and executed. And for political parties, winning elections boils down to visibilityno matter how good your policies or intentions are, if you are not visible in the publics eye, you arent likely to secure winning margins. The biggest democracy in the world is on the precipice of conducting its biggest elections: General Elections 2024. The preparations for this humongous event are already underway. Parties have pulled up their sleeves and marketing campaigns are in full swing. In 2014, the BJPs campaign brought in what was referred to as Modi-Lehar. And while social media was leveraged, the campaign involved on-ground activities with tremendous intensity. This in turn led to the BJP tapping into a major section of the Indian population that does not have access to the digital medium. This was a moment that brought to light the enormous potential of marketing for political parties. And although political campaigning has been happening for decades, this spotlighted how marketing can actually translate into a win for a party by building a nationwide narrative. Gearing up for the 2024 elections, parties have been placing emphasis on tapping into a younger demographic who are primarily digital natives. To amp up its presence on social media, all major parties have been engaging their followers on social media. One of the spearheads in this area has been the Indian National Congress (INC). Considering its current standing as the leading opposition in India, Congress is pulling in all stops to leverage social medias pervasiveness among the youth of the country. Understanding that the party witnessed a setback in the last few years, Congress relied heavily on its communication to revive the partys status as one of the frontrunners in the current political setup. Here is a look at how the INCs marketing strategy is establishing its presence before the elections: Rebuilding brand Congress Overcoming the consecutive defeats that INC has witnessed at the hands of BJP, the party has put in significant efforts in its communication to build a stronger narrative. Efforts have been made to revamp Rahul Gandhis image as a serious leader with conviction to bring in a change. The appointment of Mallikarjun Kharge as the leader of the opposition in the parliament and as the President of the INC further helped the partys optics. However, to reposition the party more emphatically, the INC took long strides in its social media communication. The communication has been made more appealing to the sensibilities of Gen Z and millennials, and incorporation of a lot of trending elements has been emphasised. The party also positioned itself as a more trustworthy and connectable entity. The marketing strategy seems to have focused on building a humanised personality of the partythe way brands build personalities to consolidate communication on social media. The social media strategy of the party seems to work well as it amasses a following of 3.9 million on Instagram, a 10.4 million following on X (Twitter), and 4.31 million subscribers on YouTube as well as 6.7 million followers on Facebook. Apart from this, Rahul Gandhis own YouTube channel has garnered 4.07 million followers thanks to the curated content shared by the leader. INCs social media pages consistently provide content that is tailored according to the particular mediums conventions and style. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rahul Gandhi (@rahulgandhi) pic.twitter.com/Okg4ndEDNJ Congress (@INCIndia) April 2, 2024 Calling out the oppositions discrepancies With its recent communication, Congress has positioned itself lately as a party that asks questions and puts the ruling government on the spot with regard to its actions and policiesthus reinforcing its place as the leading opposition party in India. With this, the party aims to position itself as one taking a proactive stance that could enhance its credibility and support among the electorate. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Congress (@incindia) Through a combination of reels and static posts, the INC consistently highlights the ruling party's inconsistencies and advocates against injustices on Instagram. Embracing a revamped image, the party employs satire and cleverly juxtaposes trending meme templates to humorously critique the opposition. This approachable and authentic demeanour has resonated with the younger demographic, making the INC appear more relatable and genuine. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (@bharatjodo) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Congress (@incindia) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Congress (@incindia) The INCs social media strategy uses humour to connect with its target audience. It uses trending meme templates to appeal to the younger generation. Along with that, reels are routinely posted which feature audios that are viral and editing techniques that are more in line with the tastes of the younger demographic. Particularly on Instagram, the party uses an unhinged approach to stand out and make its content palatable for casual consumption. Through lighthearted content, it makes heavier political discourse more suitable for the ordinary social media user. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Congress (@incindia) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Congress (@incindia) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Congress (@incindia) Speaking about national issues As with anti-incumbency, prolonged tenure in power often leads to a diminishing focus on the original campaign promises. A sense of complacency emerges, contributing to the removal of incumbent governments. This trend was observed in the 2014 ousting of the Congress party after its consecutive terms in office. Having been out of central power for nearly ten years, the party now aims to reinvigorate its sense of purpose and dedication to addressing pressing issues. The INC's marketing approach highlights the policies and reforms it would champion if elected into power. Attempting to position itself as a proponent of democratic values, the marketing places significant emphasis on the partys socialist endeavours highlighting its repurposed approach. The messaging on social media aims to portray the INC as a progressive and inclusive political force committed to the welfare of all sections of society. Key messaging themes often include social justice, economic development, secularism, and democratic values. Congress plans and schemes for 2024 are highly publicised in its communication. The party has fully laid out plans to execute its strategies. Right from the beginning of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, the INC has been emphasising the key areas of focus that it will be implementing in its manifesto. The communication prioritised these elements as Rahul Gandhi travelled through India as part of the expedition. Content was made around these focus areas ultimately leading to the official release of the INCs manifesto. Released on April 5, 2024, the partys manifesto focused on five pillars of justice (Yuva Nyay, Naari Nyay, Kisaan Nyay, Shramik Nyay and Hissedari Nyay) with 25 guarantees under them. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rahul Gandhi (@rahulgandhi) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rahul Gandhi (@rahulgandhi) CONGRESS GUARANTEE We will immediately restore full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir Haath Badlega Halaat #CongressNyayPatra pic.twitter.com/47nmA0j7Wv Congress (@INCIndia) April 5, 2024 Bharat Jodo Yatra and on-ground initiatives The Bharat Jodo Yatra, organised by the INC and led by Rahul Gandhi, aimed to unite Indiain the partys wordsagainst the divisive politics of the ruling party. It covered 4,080 kilometers from Kanyakumari to Jammu and Kashmir over 150 days. It protested against fear-driven politics and economic injustices; and was a heavily publicised event. The movement saw the election of a new INC president and a significant victory in the 2022 Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly election. The aim behind this initiative was to bring in a proverbial renaissance of the party with the yatra seeming like a way of redemption. It was intended to reestablish Rahul Gandhis image as a serious leader and the face of the opposition in India. The coverage of the expedition kept the INC in the news with emphasis being on Rahul Gandhis journey through India understanding the nuances of its regions and first-hand witnessing the issues surrounding the rural population of the country. This reinforced the socialist and democratic intentions of the party which would be contesting points in the forthcoming elections. The initiate has a separate page on Instagram that has a following of 296K. It has a 382K following on X, 321K following on Facebook and 55.5K subscribers on YouTube creating significant buzz on social media. Following this, just months before the general elections, the INC organised a sequel to the yatra titled Bharat Jodo Nyay Yaytra. Commencing from Thoubal in Manipur on January 14, 2024, and concluding in Mumbai on March 16, 2024, the journey traversed the east-west expanse of India. Its primary objective was to enhance the party's electoral involvement across the country, strategically gearing up for the forthcoming national elections. The party stated that the earlier Bharat Jodo Yatra had drawn attention to issues such as economic inequality, societal fragmentation, and authoritarian governance. In contrast, the forthcoming Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra aimed to prioritise the pursuit of social, economic, and political justice for the nation's populace. The party also launched an app titled Nyay Yatra App that covered the expedition and revealed all the statistics relevant to the yatra. Along with that, the INC also launched official anthems for the Bharat Jodo Yatra as well as the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Furthermore, to capitalise on the on-ground momentum, Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and other Congress leaders attended press conferences answering questions and raising national concernssomething which the leaders of the ruling government have been avoiding. Video commercials The INC also created a series of video commercials that put the ruling government in question by raising pertinent issues such as unemployment and inflation. The videos emphasised on Congress tagline for this election, Haath Badlega Halaat. These commercials highlight the daily struggles of the countrys populace, targeting the ruling government for the current state of affairs. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (@bharatjodo) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Congress (@incindia) , , pic.twitter.com/hFquXBhxDI Congress (@INCIndia) April 7, 2024 In the lead-up to the General Elections of 2024, the INC has embarked on a strategic journey to rejuvenate its image and amplify its presence in the digital sphere. Recognising the pivotal role of marketing in modern politics, it has focused on rebuilding its brand, engaging with the younger demographic, and addressing pressing issues head-on. Leveraging social media platforms with humour, satire, and engaging content, the party is connecting with a wider audience, particularly the youth. With its initiatives, the INC intends to position itself as a key contender in the upcoming elections.

Manipur: Two insurgents arrested with arms and ammunition

Imphal: A contingent of the Assam Rifles and Manipur police arrested two active cadres of different valley-based underground groups and recovered several arms and ammunition including a pistol, officials said on Wednesday. Acting on specific intelligence of the presence of cadres in the general area Wangkhem, Yaripok, in Thoubal District, Manipur, a joint team of [] The post Manipur: Two insurgents arrested with arms and ammunition appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .

Assam: Rain, hailstorm batter parts of Kamrup district; uproot trees, damage houses

Assam: Rain, hailstorm batter parts of Kamrup district; uproot trees, damage houses After experiencing dry and hot weather for the past few weeks, heavy rains accompanied by hailstorms wreaked havoc in parts of Assam's Kamrup district and neighbouring areas on Sunday, causing extensive damage to public and private properties. Several houses were damaged, and trees and electric poles were uprooted in the Nagarbera area of Kamrup district due to the severe hailstorm. Naitor Kalyanpur, Naitor Udla, Jamlai, Bidyanagar, and Hekra villages are among the worst affected areas. Vehicular movement was also affected for hours as uprooted trees blocked roads in various parts of the district. No injuries or casualties have been reported so far, officials said. According to locals, several houses were damaged. My house was damaged, and many other houses in our locality were also damaged. Many families of Naitor Udla, Kalyanpur, Jamlai, Bidyanagar, Lahotari, and Nagarbera have been badly affected. My wife and daughter were busy cooking when a bunch of trees hit my house due to the storm. Both of them were injured, a Nagarbera resident said. Later I took them to a hospital, he added. Another resident complained about damage to his house and said, My house has been severely damaged due to the rains and hail last night. Several trees have also been uprooted in the area. Earlier, strong winds, heavy rains, and lightning also struck southeastern Manipur and Assam's Jorhat on Sunday, causing damage to several houses, crops, and livestock shelters. Thoubal's Sapam Leikai and Khongjom villages in Manipur were among the most affected areas with severe damage to houses, buildings and crops there. (ANI)

Banned UNLF(P) delaying surrender of cadre, weapons despite ceasefire agreement, say officials

Banned UNLF(P) delaying surrender of cadre, weapons despite ceasefire agreement, say officials The United National Liberation Front (P), a banned terror group, has failed to surrender weapons or provide a list of its members despite signing a ceasefire agreement with the Centre four months ago, officials said on Sunday, amid concerns by security agencies that its cadre were still carrying out violence in Manipur. Even after three rounds of talks with state authorities, the UNLF, the first Meitei terror outfit to agree to a ceasefire, has not complied with the agreed terms since the agreement was inked on November 29 last. Concerns have been raised by security agencies over the ongoing violence in Manipur attributed to UNLF (P) members despite the ceasefire. Led by Kh Pambei, the UNLF (P) made history by becoming the first Meitei armed group in the Imphal Valley to engage in a ceasefire agreement with the government, pledging to renounce violence. The UNLF(P)'s demand for camp establishment near Kuki-populated areas was resisted by security agencies, fearing a potential escalation in ethnic conflicts that have already resulted in over 200 casualties in the state. Temporary camp arrangements have been approved in Ingourok in Thoubal district and agriculture town, Kakching Khunou, in Kakching district, the officials said. Security agencies rejected the UNLF's objection to the presence of central paramilitary forces at the camps as also setting up camps on the foothills. Officials urged the UNLF to surrender weapons and provide a list of members for relocation. Recent reports indicate that UNLF members are establishing camps near Kuki settlements to target tribal populations, fostering tensions. Despite the ceasefire agreement's intent to halt hostilities, recent incidents show UNLF (P) members are carrying out violent activities with impunity, even looting arms from security forces, the officials said. According to reports, the cadre of the banned terror group were allegedly involved in looting arms and ammunition from the 5th India Reserve Battalion (IRB) at Chingarel in Manipur East on February 13 and opening fire at Moirangpurel on vehicles heading towards Churachandpur last month. The unrest escalated when reports claimed that a shooting incident in Maphou village, predominantly inhabited by the people of the Kuki ethnicity, was carried out by individuals allegedly associated with the Arambai Tenggol and UNLF (P) cadre. These cadre of UNLF (P) were reportedly providing live updates on social media while claiming to target the Kuki community. The ceasefire deal was envisioned to end decades-long conflicts between UNLF(P) and security forces, paving the way for community concerns to be addressed. Formed in 1964, the UNLF (P) has operated within and outside Indian borders. The Centre has signed agreements with Northeastern armed groups since 2014 to quell unrest and foster growth. Furthermore, a Suspension of Operations (SoO) with 21 Kuki-dominated groups has been in place since 2008 to maintain peace in Manipur's hilly regions. The unilateral withdrawal by the Manipur government from the SoO due to allegations of land encroachment by two Kuki insurgent groups in March has not received central government endorsement.

Samosa, biryani, tea: District poll panels fix varied menu, ceiling for LS polls expenditure

Samosa, biryani, tea: District poll panels fix varied menu, ceiling for LS polls expenditure Candidates in Punjab's Jalandhar can spend Rs 15 for a cup of tea and the same price for a samosa they offer to people during public meetings and campaign trails in the Lok Sabha elections. However, those in Madhya Pradesh's Mandla can spend Rs 7 for a cup of tea and another Rs 7.50 for a piece of samosa, considered a staple snack in many parts of the country. With polls to elect the 18th Lok Sabha approaching, district poll panels are fixing the rates for expenses as part of the election expenditure monitoring process. The candidates will have to manage their expenditure within the prescribed limit. These rate cards often become a subject of ''meme-fest'' on social media about the prices not being in sync with the current inflation level. In most states, including Andhra Pradesh, the expenditure ceiling for a Lok Sabha candidate is set at Rs 95 lakh. However, in Arunachal Pradesh, Goa and Sikkim, the limit is slightly lower at Rs 75 lakh per candidate. Similarly, for Union territories, the expenditure ceiling ranges from Rs 75 lakh to Rs 95 lakh per candidate, depending on the region. In Jalandhar, chole bhature has been capped at Rs 40 while mutton and chicken have been priced at Rs 250 and 500 per kg respectively. Desserts like dhodha (Rs 450 per kg) and ghee pinni (Rs 300 per kg) are also on the menu besides lassi and nimbu pani priced at Rs 20 and 15 per glass respectively. The cost of tea is low at Rs 5 in the rate card of Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh but the samosa is priced higher at Rs 10. The Balaghat rate card also has idli, sambhar vada and poha-jalebi priced at Rs 20 while the cost for dosa and upma has been fixed at Rs 30. In Thoubal district of violence-hit Manipur, tea, samosa, kachori, khajur (dates) and gaja (dessert) have been priced at Rs 10 each. Candidates in the northeastern state's Tengnoupal district, will have to stick to Rs 5 for black tea and Rs 10 for milk tea. The list has a wider spread of non-vegetarian items with duck and pork priced at Rs 300 and Rs 400 per kg respectively. Chicken (broiler) and fish like rohu, mrigal and sareng, are also on the list. In Chennai, the price of tea has been raised from Rs 10 to Rs 15 and coffee from Rs 15 to Rs 20, while the rate of chicken biryani has been reduced from Rs 180 to Rs 150 per packet compared to 2019. In the expenditure card for Gautam Buddha Nagar (Noida/Greater Noida), vegetarian thali comes for Rs 100, a samosa or a cup of tea for Rs 10, kachori for Rs 15, a sandwich for Rs 25, and a kilogram of jalebi for Rs 90 per kg. North Goa candidates can have batata vada on menu at a cost of Rs 15, same as that for a samosa. The tea has been capped at Rs 15 while coffee can cost Rs 20. The rate card for Haryana's Jind offers the candidates to hire a tandoor for Rs 300 and features delicacies like dal makhni and mix veg for Rs 130 while matar paneer has been priced at 160. Breads like butter nan, missi roti and plain roti are also on the platter besides desserts including kaju katli and gulab jamun. While parties and candidates often offer workers and voters liquor, none of the rate cards mention alcohol. Other heads which find mention in the rate cards range from expensive infrastructure, such as helipads, luxury vehicles, and farmhouses, to miscellaneous items like flowers, cooler, tower ACs and sofa. The rate cards have also prescribed the ceiling on rates for hiring of different vehicles for campaigning right from a Tata Safari or Scorpio to a Honda City or Ciaz or a bus to ferry to public to rally grounds. Rates have also been set for rose garlands, marigold garlands and bouquet by some poll panels while some have included heads like party merchandise including caps and flags. The rate cards also have an list of permissible rates for hiring venues and accommodation. The expenditure includes the spend for public meetings, rallies, advertisements, hoardings, pamphlets, flexis, campaign material and all other election-related work. At present, there is a ceiling on campaigning funds for individual candidates in the electoral fray but no cap on the money political parties can spend for electioneering. According to the revised guidelines issued by the ECI, the maximum permissible expenditure for campaigning in a Lok Sabha constituency varies across different states and Union territories. Section 77 (1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 says candidates are expected to keep an account of expenditure incurred on the elections from the ''date on which he has been nominated'' till the ''date of declaration of the result''. Polling for the 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases, starting with 102 in the first phase on April 19. The votes will be counted on June 4.

Rahuls BJNY will have zero impact on BJPs electoral prospects: Rijiju

Itanagar: Union minister Kiren Rijiju has asserted that Congress leader Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will have no impact on the BJPs electoral prospects, and the NDA will win the Lok Sabha polls with a thumping majority. The yatra which started on January 14 from Thoubal in Manipur, concluded in Mumbai on March 16, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Tribal forum office in Churachandpur attacked

Miscreants attacked ITLF office in Churachandpur, destroying items. Police investigating. Prohibitory orders in Thoubal under Section 144. ECI instructs on arms impounding. Anusuiya Uikey mentions violence in Manipur. Tribal Solidarity March opposes Meitei community inclusion.

'Increasingly disturbed' situation in different parts of Northeast: Congress

'Increasingly disturbed' situation in different parts of Northeast: Congress As Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Assam's Kaziranga National Park, the Congress on Saturday attacked the Centre over the ''increasingly disturbed'' situation in different parts of the Northeast, and asked why the PM had not found time to visit the violence-hit Manipur yet. Prime Minister Modi took the elephant and jeep safari inside Assam's Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve on Saturday morning In a swipe at Modi, Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, ''We're glad that the Prime Minister has found time amidst his various travels to spend today morning in Kaziranga, an iconic national park which owes much to the great interest shown both by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.'' However, beyond Kaziranga, there are four questions for him on the ''increasingly disturbed'' situation in different parts of the Northeast of India, he said. ''On June 19th, 2020, at the all-party meet on China, the Prime Minister declared that not a single Chinese soldier had crossed over into Indian territory. By giving a public clean chit to China, the Prime Minister has tied his own hands, and failed to take action to restore the status quo after Chinese aggression,'' Ramesh alleged. ''Chinese troops continue to deny Indian citizens access to grazing lands and Indian patrols access to strategic spots along the LAC -- where they previously had unimpeded access,'' he said. Ramesh claimed that there have been multiple instances of PLA troops kidnapping Indian citizens on Indian soil. In 2022, a BJP MP from Arunachal Pradesh himself alleged that the PLA had abducted and tortured 19-year-old Miram Taron for ten days, he said. ''During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Itanagar, Rahul Gandhi also met the family of Tapor Pullom, who has been missing since he was allegedly abducted by the PLA in 2015. Modiji, bhul gaye kya? Were you lying to the people back then?'' the Congress leader said. He also said that Manipur has been in a ''state of virtual civil war'' for nearly a year now. ''Hundreds of people have died in widespread violence, lakhs have been displaced, communities are at war with each other, and the administration has collapsed,'' he said. Ramesh claimed that the violence still continues with two youths in Moreh beaten up on March 7, and Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Konsam Kheda Singh of the Indian Army ''kidnapped'' from his own house in Thoubal district by militants on March 8. ''Why has the Prime Minister, ordinarily misusing taxpayer's money to campaign around the country, not found the time to visit Manipur yet, or even take a call with the Chief Minister and the political parties of the state?'' Ramesh said. Is he waiting for the people of India to buy him a ticket to Imphal, the Congress leader asked. Ramesh said the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organization (ENPO) has declared a ''public emergency'' in Eastern Nagaland threatening to disallow any political party from campaigning or contesting elections in the region to protest the delay in the creation of a 'Frontier Nagaland Territory.' ''The Konyak Union (KU) and Tikhir Tribal Council (TTC) have echoed the ENPO's declaration of a public emergency. On the 8th of March, there was a large-scale bandh in most of Eastern Nagaland,'' he said. Even as the situation becomes increasingly more tense and threatens to disrupt the rule of law and democracy in Nagaland, the Union government appears to be missing in action, Ramesh alleged. ''This is not a new development: we have seen the Modi Sarkar previously obscure the political situation of Nagaland with the 2015 Naga Accord, which has not even been released to the public, much less implemented. What steps is the Modi Sarkar taking to defuse the situation brewing in eastern Nagaland today?'' he said. Ramesh also raised the issue of three labourers, who worked in a stone quarry in Cachar, Assam and were abducted by the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) in December 2023. In mid-February 2024, 10 labourers working at Finboro Coalmine in Changlang district on the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border were abducted by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) and the United Liberation Front of Assam Independent (ULFA-I), he said. ''There has been a disturbing re-emergence of separatist groups emboldened to disrupt the lives of common people and enact their reign of terror. When faced with this renewed violence, why is the Modi Sarkar sitting on its hands?'' Ramesh said.

What's stopping PM from visiting 'disturbed' parts of northeast, strife-torn Manipur, asks Cong

What's stopping PM from visiting 'disturbed' parts of northeast, strife-torn Manipur, asks Cong As Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Assam's Kaziranga National Park, the Congress on Saturday attacked the Centre over the ''increasingly disturbed'' situation in different parts of the Northeast, and asked why the PM had not found time to visit the violence-hit Manipur yet. Prime Minister Modi took the elephant and jeep safari inside Assam's Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve on Saturday morning In a swipe at Modi, Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, ''We're glad that the Prime Minister has found time amidst his various travels to spend today morning in Kaziranga, an iconic national park which owes much to the great interest shown both by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.'' However, beyond Kaziranga, there are four questions for him on the ''increasingly disturbed'' situation in different parts of the Northeast of India, he said. ''On June 19th, 2020, at the all-party meet on China, the Prime Minister declared that not a single Chinese soldier had crossed over into Indian territory. By giving a public clean chit to China, the Prime Minister has tied his own hands, and failed to take action to restore the status quo after Chinese aggression,'' Ramesh alleged. ''Chinese troops continue to deny Indian citizens access to grazing lands and Indian patrols access to strategic spots along the LAC -- where they previously had unimpeded access,'' he said. Ramesh claimed that there have been multiple instances of PLA troops kidnapping Indian citizens on Indian soil. In 2022, a BJP MP from Arunachal Pradesh himself alleged that the PLA had abducted and tortured 19-year-old Miram Taron for ten days, he said. ''During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Itanagar, Rahul Gandhi also met the family of Tapor Pullom, who has been missing since he was allegedly abducted by the PLA in 2015. Modiji, bhul gaye kya? Were you lying to the people back then?'' the Congress leader said. He also said that Manipur has been in a ''state of virtual civil war'' for nearly a year now. ''Hundreds of people have died in widespread violence, lakhs have been displaced, communities are at war with each other, and the administration has collapsed,'' he said. Ramesh claimed that the violence still continues with two youths in Moreh beaten up on March 7, and Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Konsam Kheda Singh of the Indian Army ''kidnapped'' from his own house in Thoubal district by militants on March 8. ''Why has the Prime Minister, ordinarily misusing taxpayer's money to campaign around the country, not found the time to visit Manipur yet, or even take a call with the Chief Minister and the political parties of the state?'' Ramesh said. Is he waiting for the people of India to buy him a ticket to Imphal, the Congress leader asked. Ramesh said the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organization (ENPO) has declared a ''public emergency'' in Eastern Nagaland threatening to disallow any political party from campaigning or contesting elections in the region to protest the delay in the creation of a 'Frontier Nagaland Territory.' ''The Konyak Union (KU) and Tikhir Tribal Council (TTC) have echoed the ENPO's declaration of a public emergency. On the 8th of March, there was a large-scale bandh in most of Eastern Nagaland,'' he said. Even as the situation becomes increasingly more tense and threatens to disrupt the rule of law and democracy in Nagaland, the Union government appears to be missing in action, Ramesh alleged. ''This is not a new development: we have seen the Modi Sarkar previously obscure the political situation of Nagaland with the 2015 Naga Accord, which has not even been released to the public, much less implemented. What steps is the Modi Sarkar taking to defuse the situation brewing in eastern Nagaland today?'' he said. Ramesh also raised the issue of three labourers, who worked in a stone quarry in Cachar, Assam and were abducted by the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) in December 2023. In mid-February 2024, 10 labourers working at Finboro Coalmine in Changlang district on the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border were abducted by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) and the United Liberation Front of Assam Independent (ULFA-I), he said. ''There has been a disturbing re-emergence of separatist groups emboldened to disrupt the lives of common people and enact their reign of terror. When faced with this renewed violence, why is the Modi Sarkar sitting on its hands?'' Ramesh said.

Morning Digest | Abducted Army officer rescued in Manipurs Thoubal; Rahul Gandhi to contest from Wayanad, and more

Here is a select list of stories to start the day

Army officer kidnapped from home by Meitei men; search operation launched

A Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) from Manipur's Thoubal district, Konsam Kheda Singh, was abducted by anti-social elements while on leave. The abduction took place when a group forced their way into Singh's home at 9am and took him away in a vehicle. The initial reports suggested that the abduction might be related to extortion due to previous threats received by Singh's family. The security agencies have launched a coordinated search operation to rescue the JCO.

Manipur: Abducted Army JCO rescued within hours

Defence sources said army columns launched a coordinated joint search operation for JCO Konsam Kheda Singh. The synergised efforts of the security forces resulted in the JCO being safely rescued at 6:30 pm. The JCO is currently at Waikhong Police Station (near Kakching) in Thoubal district. Manipur Police is investigating the incident, they said.

Abducted Army JCO rescued in Manipur

Imphal, Mar 8 (UNI) A serving Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army, abducted from his residence in Manipurs Thoubal district while on leave on Friday, was rescued within hours by the security agencies.Forty-year-old Naib Subedar Konsam Kheda Singh, a resident of Charangpat Mamang Leikai, Thoubal, was abducted from his residence and taken away... The post Abducted Army JCO rescued in Manipur first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .

Abducted Indian Army JCO rescued in Manipur (Lead)

Imphal, March 8 (IANS) A serving Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army was rescued by the security forces, hours after he was kidnapped from his home by unidentified elements in Manipurs Thoubal district on Friday, officials said. A defence spokesman said that Naib Subedar Konsam Kheda Singh, a resident of Charangpat Mamang Leikai []

Abducted JCO of Indian Army rescued by security forces in Manipur's Thoubal district

IMPHAL: A serving Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army, who was abducted from his home in Manipur's Thoubal district by anti-social elements on Friday morning, was rescued by security forces in the evening, sources said. The JCO, identified as Konsam Kheda Singh, a resident of Charangpat Mamang Leikai, is currently at Waikhong police station (near Kakching) in Thoubal district. Police are investigating the incident, they added. According to sources, a coordinated search operation was launched by all security agencies to rescue the JCO which ultimately led to his safe release at 6.30 pm. Singh, who was currently on leave, was abducted around 9am after some people barged into his home and bundled him in a vehicle and fled. Though the cause of the abduction is not known, reports suggest that it was an extortion case as his family had received such threats in the past, officials said. This was the fourth incident since the commencement of the conflict in Manipur wherein soldiers while on leave, on duty or their relatives have been targeted for nefarious interests by inimical elements. In September 2023, a former Assam Regiment soldier Serto Thangthang Kom was kidnapped and killed by an unidentified armed group from the valley. He was posted in Manipur's Leimakhong with the Defence Service Corps (DSC). Two months later, an unidentified armed group kidnapped four people while they were travelling in an SUV from the hill district Churachandpur to Leimakhong, and killed them. The four were family members of an Indian Army soldier serving in Jammu and Kashmir. A fifth passenger, the father of the soldier, who was injured, managed to escape and was later airlifted by the army to Dimapur for treatment. He was eventually shifted to the base hospital in Guwahati, Assam. An Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) from Manipur Police was attacked in his house in Imphal city on February 27. The attackers in this case were identified as Arambai Tenggol (AT), a radical Meitei group. Following the incident, police commandos of Manipur laid down their arms in Imphal and other areas. The open defiance of discipline in the police ranks on the morning of the commencement of the state assembly (February 28, 2024) prompted Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh to visit the police officer in the hospital and also hold discussions with the senior police officials to address their grievances. Manipur Police also published a statement blaming the notorious group AT for the attack and warned all miscreants to refrain from such acts and indicating that prevalence of such conditions will result in reimposition of AFSPA in the valley. The security forces toiling day and night for early restoration of peace and normalcy are being targeted for performing their duty, the officials said, adding the attacks by the inimical elements on security forces and their families need to be strongly condemned and perpetrators caught and punished as per the law. At least 219 people have been killed in the ethnic strife in the state that started on May 3 last year after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley, while tribals, which include Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mainly in the hill districts.

Indian Army JCO abducted from home in Manipurs Thoubal district

Imphal, March 8 (IANS) A serving Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army was reportedly kidnapped from his home by unidentified elements in Manipurs Thoubal district on Friday, officials said. According to the officials, JCO Konsam Kheda Singh, a resident of Charangpat Mamang Leikai in Thoubal district, was on leave when the unidentified elements []

Army JCO Abducted In Manipur, Search Operation Launched

Army JCO Visiting His Home On Leave Abducted By Unknown Miscreants In Manipur's Thoubal

Army officer abducted from his home in Manipur's Thoubal

Army officer abducted from his home in Manipurs Thoubal

Army JCO abducted from home in Manipur, security forces launch search operation

IMPHAL: A serving Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army was abducted from his home in Manipur's Thoubal district by anti-social elements on Friday, officials said. They said the JCO, identified as Konsam Kheda Singh, a resident of Charangpat Mamang Leikai, was on leave when some people barged into his home at 9am and bundled him in a vehicle and fled. Though the cause of the abduction is not known, initial reports suggest that it was an extortion case as his family had received such threats in the past, the officials said. On receiving information, a coordinated search operation has been launched by all security agencies to rescue the JCO. Checking of all vehicles plying on National Highway 102 is currently in progress. The cause of the abduction is not known and further details are awaited. This is the fourth incident since the commencement of the conflict in Manipur wherein soldiers while on leave, on duty or their relatives have been targeted for nefarious interests by inimical elements. Manipur: 2 killed and many injured in Churachandpur In September 2023, a former Assam Regiment soldier Serto Thangthang Kom was kidnapped and killed by an unidentified armed group from the valley. He was posted in Manipur's Leimakhong with the Defence Service Corps (DSC). Two months later, an unidentified armed group kidnapped four people while they were travelling in an SUV from the hill district Churachandpur to Leimakhong, and killed them. The four were family members of an Indian Army soldier serving in Jammu and Kashmir. A fifth passenger, the father of the soldier, who was injured, managed to escape and was later airlifted by the army to Dimapur for treatment. He was eventually shifted to the base hospital in Guwahati, Assam. Manipur: 200 armed men abduct ASP, rescued by security forces An Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) from Manipur Police was attacked in his house in Imphal city on February 27. The attackers in this case were identified as Arambai Tenggol (AT), a radical Meitei group. Following the incident, police commandos of Manipur laid down their arms in Imphal and other areas. The open defiance of discipline in the police ranks on the morning of the commencement of the state assembly (February 28, 2024) prompted Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh to visit the police officer in the hospital and also hold discussions with the senior police officials to address their grievances. Manipur Police also published a statement blaming the notorious group AT for the attack and warned all miscreants to refrain from such acts and indicating that prevalence of such conditions will result in reimposition of AFSPA in the valley. The security forces toiling day and night for early restoration of peace and normalcy are being targeted for performing their duty, the officials said, adding the attacks by the inimical elements on security forces and their families need to be strongly condemned and perpetrators caught and punished as per the law. At least 219 people have been killed in the ethnic strife in the state that started on May 3 last year after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley, while tribals, which include Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mainly in the hill districts. BJP's 'double engine' govt dealt several blows to people of Manipur: Congress chief Kharge

Manipur govt seeks Assam Rifles' help to maintain peace in six violence-hit districts

IMPHAL: The Manipur government has sought Assam Rifles' assistance to maintain peace and restore public confidence in six violence-hit districts. An order issued by the Imphal West district magistrate on Thursday highlighted reports of significant breaches of law and order, notably instances of mob violence. The situation has gone beyond the control of the district administration and police, the order said, adding that the services of Assam Rifles has been requisitioned in different parts of the district from February 29 till March 5. Manipur Police commandos lay down arms in protest against abduction of ASP This follows recent events, including a torchlight rally on Wednesday night by thousands of women in Imphal West demanding the termination of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement between the central government and Kuki militant groups. On February 27, around 200 armed men vandalised and fired upon the residence of additional ASP M Amit Singh in Wangkhei, Imphal East district, leading to Singh's abduction and subsequent rescue by security forces. In response to the escalating situation, other districts such as Bishnupur, Thoubal, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Tengnoupal have also requisitioned the deployment of Assam Rifles to maintain peace and security, officials said. BJP's 'double engine' govt dealt several blows to people of Manipur: Congress chief Kharge

Manipur Police warns action against radical group, says need to deploy Army enhanced

Manipur Police warns action against radical group, says need to deploy Army enhanced The Manipur Police on Thursday announced toughening of its stand against radical Meitei group Arambai Tengol (AT) and other anti-social groups who indulge in crimes like attacks and extortion saying the need for deploying Army and other central forces will have to be enhanced after the attack on a state police officer. In a hard-hitting statement, the Manipur Police also said it is a neutral force and does not act against any community or in favour of one and it remains ever committed to guard and protect the lives and properties of public. Public must not be misled and cooperate with the Manipur Police in bringing peace and tranquillity back in the state, it said. ''Combing operations will continue in the days to come and no one responsible for such criminal activities will be spared. With Manipur Police being targeted, the need for calling in Army and other central forces will have to be enhanced,'' the statement said. The statement came in the wake of the attack on Manipur Police Additional Superintendent of Police Moirangthem Amit Singh allegedly by AT members two days ago. The Manipur Police said all personnel of the force from top to bottom are united and any attack on anyone and use of social media to target any officer or unit will be taken seriously and stringent action will be taken. An extensive area domination and combing operations by police and other security forces continued in different parts of Manipur as police sought cooperation of the public in bringing peace and tranquility back to the violence-hit state. The area domination and combing operations came hours after more than 1,000 Manipur Police commandos took a stand on Wednesday by laying down their arms in response to Tuesdays attack on ASP Kumar. An extensive area domination drive by combined forces led by Superintendents of Police was conducted in five valley districts -- Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching - Wednesday night, a police spokesman said. He said combing operations will continue in the days to come and no one responsible for ''criminal activities'' will be spared. The Manipur Police also requested the public to refrain from rumour mongering and circulating fake news. Condemning the attack on the life of ASP Kumar and other police officers by members of the AT, the spokesman said the family members of the officer were also intimidated by the assailants by firing bullets, besides vandalising houses and properties. The officer was also abducted, beaten and later released after timely intervention by the department, he said, adding in connection with this incident numerous concocted narratives are being circulated on various platforms, including social media, leading to character assassination of the officer and the police department as a whole. ''In this regard, it is important for right-thinking people to understand the origin of the event(s) which have led to this unprecedented and unprovoked incident. It is to be informed that on February 27 (afternoon) one information was received about the stealing/snatching of two numbers of cars, by some unknown armed miscreants from government oil depot, located at North AOC. ''Based on this information, the officers -- Kumar, Inspector P Achouba Meitei and other teams -- had conducted a search and intercepted the two vehicles which were stolen/snatched, along with apprehension of one individual who was part of committing the crime. ''Later, in this connection one case was registered at Imphal Police Station under various sections of IPC and Arms Act,'' the spokesman said. The spokesman said the members of AT had carried out targeted attack on the officers as well as attacked the house and properties of the ASP who along with his team have been working tirelessly and contributing to the efforts to ensure law and order in the state, especially Imphal West District. Besides, the AT is engaging in many anti-social activities like assaulting civilians, snatching of vehicles from public and government officials, they are also indulging in extortion from the common public and businessmen. ''They are garnering false support from the public in the garb of protecting the public but they are committing many anti-social activities and criminal acts. Public must not be misled and give co-operation to Manipur Police in bringing peace and tranquillity back in the state,'' the spokesman said. The state has witnessed escalating violence since May 3, 2023 with 219 casualties reported after a ''Tribal Solidarity March'' in the hill districts protested the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis, constituting around 53 per cent of Manipur's population and residing predominantly in the Imphal Valley, contrast the tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, who make up 40 per cent and primarily inhabit the hill districts.

Rahul Gandhi, Along With Congress Leaders, En Route To Imphal On Board A Special Flight

he Manipur government has imposed restrictions on the flagging off programme of Congress' Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Thoubal district on January 14 stating that the programme should not exceed an hour and the number of participants be a maximum 3000.

Manipur CM assures action against those attacking security personnel and civilians

Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Tuesday announced that the state government will take up appropriate action against all those who were attacking security personnel and civilians. Violence erupted with the arrival of New Year with four civilians killed at Thoubal district by unknown armed persons and attack on Manipur Police and BSF []