Manipur News

BSIP scientists find 37K-yr-old bamboo fossil in Manipur

Manipur hosts biggest cultural showcase with 12th Sangai Festival - why is this edition special

Travelogue: Don't tell the mountains you are coming to Nagaland

Sitting in that cozy Naga kitchen in Munirka one winter evening in Delhi, I promised the girl across the table the one who had been slipping unfamiliar flavours into my life that I would accompany her on her next trip home. To Nagaland. Until I met her, everything I knew of the place came from second-hand anecdotes, and none of it matched what she spoke of: a sweep of emerald hills stitched with terraces and mist. To the then-aspiring writer in me, this was the stuff of alchemy. A view from Kapamodzu Peak in Phek district, Nagaland The road to Dzuleke Village However, to avoid trespassing into the personal, I pitched it as an adventure holiday for our little gang a clutch of nobodies trying to find meaning in the capital. We even started a WhatsApp group: NE Chale? And as word spread, more unlikely recruits joined. The neighbourhood grocers son, whose father insisted that he see more of the world; a freelance designer who sometimes worked with our office; and the young manager of a pub in Hauz Khas. Whatever personal vectors influenced their decision, everyone was convinced that Nagaland would have between its mountain folds, exactly what they sought. Northeast chale? wed ask each other whenever we crossed paths in the office cafeteria, on Tuesday-night football, in the fruit mart queue at Khan Market, during long walks in Nizamuddin, and at house parties in GK. Soon, the answers invariably came. That was ten years ago. The backyard of the chief's house in Dzuleke Village The adventure we had poured so much heart into never materialised. Soon, it became a long-running joke, then a reminder of our collective failure. One by one, people left the group. She did too. Today, only a handful remain, stubbornly holding on to the dream, to the versions of ourselves we once hoped to become. But a decade is a long time. So much has shifted in our lives that the simple act of travelling together required us to set fire to our worlds and pack with us the smoke of that anguish. So I decided to go alone. The only school in Dzuleke Village Part of it was the quiet, persistent desire to see a faraway land. Also, to settle an old promise. But the journey did take on new dimensions as soon as I glimpsed the first mountains peeking from behind the veil of clouds. I was, to say little, galvanised. Perhaps it has something to do with living too close to the sea? Its vastness and the plateauing of its horizon renders in those accustomed to the sight a yearning to see mountains piercing the skies. An aspiration to be more. To ascend. Zhavame in Phek, Nagaland. The amphitheatre or village circle is also seen. However, as the flight descended, these very mountains seemingly conquerable from the skies were now very out of reach and too big a challenge. The adventure the girl charted out in that tiny Naga kitchen, I knew, had finally begun. One name beckoned me more than the others Kapamodzu Peak. Standing at an elevation of 2,620m, it is the fourth-highest peak in Nagaland and is nestled in the heart of Phek district, the land of the Chakhesang tribe, to which many of my friends belonged. While I had imagined scaling to the peaks summit as the arduous of my objectives here, the journey from Dimapur airport to the state capital, Kohima, turned out to be the undisputed champion. The nearly 60-kilometre journey, on roads that wound in narrow, looping ribbons, took close to three hours in the dark. Kevi, a young tour guide in Khonoma Village, poses in front of the morung, a traditional youth dormitory that serves as a center for education for young Naga men Khonoma Village Nevertheless, the decision to not remain in Dimapur that first night paid rich dividends the next morning when I, awakened by the sharp pik-pik-a-wew of an amusingly friendly Red-whiskered Bulbul (which continued this tradition for my many days since), was treated to pristine blue skies. I knew exactly what I had to do write to my friends in Delhi about the AQI levels here. It was 29. For the next few days, I, accompanied by friends of friends of friends in Kohima, navigated the length and breadth of the city; peeling away layer after layer of its storied history until all that remained was Kewhira, an old Angami village. Since one of the days was November 11 (Remembrance Day), a special stop was also made at the Kohima War Cemetery (the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II during the Japanese offensive into British India) to honour our fallen heroes. Road to Zhavame Village The paddy fields of Zhavame Village in Phek district, Nagaland On another day, a special visit was charted out by a friend to Khonoma Village, where, he was certain, I will understand from just where this stubbornness of the Nagas rose. Overlooking mesmerising paddy fields and hills covered with lush forests, this warrior village is renowned for its fierce resistance during the British colonial period. There were, of course, repercussions. The entire village and its fort was burnt down several times and had to be rebuilt each time. When asked why their ancestors didnt flee and built their lives elsewhere, the young chap who was guiding me uttered rather nonchalantly: healing cannot begin if you run away from where you lost. My friend was right. I understood now. The unofficial tour guides of Zhavame Village The next morning, I began my long ride to Zhavame, a quaint village on the foothills of Kapamodzu, on my friends scooter. While several roads had indeed undergone a makeover in the lead up to the Hornbill Festival, the one connecting Kohima to Pfutsero in Phek, and then down to Zhavame was, from reliable sources, best avoided. So I took the slightly-longer Moa Gate route through Manipur and cut north to Nagaland after passing Liyai Khunou village on the border. Even this road tested me. But coming as the balm was the hospitality of the people I met in Zhavame, which, I learned afterwards, was a major pitstop along the old trade route that connected the tribes, and later, the states, Nagaland and Manipur. Zhavame Village On one particularly cold night here and desperately in need of a hot chai, I ambled my way to the only shop here. Alas, this one had no provisions left. Overhearing my conversation with the shopkeeper, a young lady offered to run home and make me a cup. The trek began at 3am in almost pitch darkness and bitingly cold winds. A short distance into the trail and I could feel my legs giving away. While my mind was determined tocontinue, the body refused to abide. I wouldve given up entirely had had it not been for a girl navigating the same path as me. She uttered a time-old wisdom disguised as a fable. Dont let the mountains know you are coming, she said. The peaks, she continued, are inhabited by ancient spirits. If they learn you are coming, they will throw hurdles your way. Decide instead to walk till that stone, then, that big tree, until that stream... A view from Kapamodzu Peak in Phek district, Nagaland A viewpoint on the way to the summit of Kapamodzu Peak By the crack of dawn, I was on the summit and treated to a stupendous view. I stayed an entire day here, watching as clouds parted to reveal sweeps of green pastures and villages perched on impossible slopes. And from far beyond, the soft thunder of distant rain. Silhouette of mountains piercing the skies. As equally heartening as this scenery is what Nagaland is really made of: its people. Their open smiles, honest words, and a generosity that expects nothing in return. People whose friendship I will cherish as one of my lifes greatest treasures. Sunrise from Kapamodzu Peak

Air pollution levels across north India are significantly higher than national average: Report

CHANDIGARH: The air pollution levels across North India are significantly higher than the national average as per the latest report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), an independent research organisation. The report stated that Delhi, along with Punjab, Assam and Tripura, was identified as a year-round pollution hotspot failing to meet PM 2.5 standard even during the monsoons. On the other hand, the southern states recorded the lowest values. The report titled, Beyond City Limits: A Satellite-Based PM-2.5 Assessment Across Indias Airsheds, States and Districts, stated that all the 23 districts of Punjab, 22 of Haryana and 12 of Himachal Pradesh exceeded the annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 ug/m3 for PM 2.5 concentration last year. During summer, winter and post-monsoon periods, PM 2.5 concentrations exceeded the NAAQS limits in these states. During the monsoon, 15 out of 23 districts in Punjab, 5 out of 22 in Haryana and 2 out of 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh exceeded the air quality limit. It read, Delhi recorded the highest pollution levels with an annual mean PM 2.5 concentration of 101 g/m, 2.5 times the Indian standard and 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO). The pollution crisis extends across northern India, with the average PM 2.5 concentrations in all states in these regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This concentration of pollution aligns with their location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The eastern and northeastern states showed similarly concerning levels, with PM 2.5 average concentrations in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh all above the NAAQS. Among western states, the mean concentrations in Rajasthan and Gujarat exceeded the annual national standard, it added. While the southern states presented the lowest PM 2.5 values, Puducherry recorded the lowest concentration at 25 g/m, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Sikkim, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The report stated that Delhi consistently ranks as the most polluted city across all seasons, highlighting the capital's year-round air quality crisis. While Chandigarh appears in the top five during three seasons (winter, summer, and post-monsoon), West Bengal also ranks among the worst across the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Punjab and Haryana emerged as major air-pollution concerns, with Punjab during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods and Haryana during the summer and post-monsoon periods. The northeastern states present an unexpected pollution hotspot, with Assam and Tripura featuring in the top five in three seasons (winter, summer, and monsoon). Overall, 60 per cent of districts (447 out of 749) exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for annual PM 2.5. None of the districts met the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of less than 5 g/m. The most polluted districts are heavily concentrated in a few states, highlighting regional clustering of severe air quality issues. Delhi (11 districts) and Assam (11 districts) alone account for nearly half of the top 50, followed by Bihar (7) and Haryana (7). Other notable contributors include Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2), West Bengal (2), and single districts from Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Nagaland, it reads. It further added, Several states are in universal non-compliance, where all monitored districts exceed the NAAQS. These include Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Several other states show a large majority of districts breaching the norm, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33), and Jharkhand (21 of 24). A second group shows mixed performance, where some districts meet the standard but many continue to exceed it. This includes Uttar Pradesh (49 of 75 districts exceeding), Odisha (22 of 30), Madhya Pradesh (27 of 52), and Maharashtra (14 of 36). In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh (12 exceed, 13 comply) and Manipur (five exceed, 11 comply) also fall in this transitional category. At the other end of the spectrum, several states have the majority of their districts below NAAQS, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These contrasting patterns highlight the continued dominance of northern and eastern states in Indias PM 2.5 pollution hotspots, while southern and coastal regions remain relatively cleaner. The report stated that the states should develop district-level air quality action plans, guided by satellite data to identify hotspots, prioritise high-exposure populations, and allocate mitigation resources efficiently. The satellite-derived PM 2.5 data should be formally integrated into NCAP for spatially comprehensive assessment and performance tracking. Also, establishing protocols for validation, periodic updates, and public dissemination of satellite-based estimates will strengthen transparency and enable real-time decision-making in areas lacking ground monitors.

Manipur: Earthquake of magnitude 3.5 hits Noney district

A mild earthquake registering 3.5 on the Richter scale rattled the tranquil town of Noney in Manipur this Thursday morning. The National Centre for Seismology revealed that the tremor originated at a depth of 26 kilometers. Just hours earlier, the Bay of Bengal was rocked by a slightly stronger quake, measuring 4.0 in magnitude.

Manipur: 3 militants arrested for 'threatening' to bomb Sangai tourism festival

The action came following a video posted on Facebook by a user on November 21, which contained threats to bomb the festival being held from November 21 to November 30

Sai Sudharsan Added To TN Squad For Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India batter Sai Sudharsan was added to the senior squad of Tamil Nadu by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) on Wednesday for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) in Ahmedabad, giving the team a much-needed boost following a slow start to the season. After scoring 15 and 14 in a difficult debut series that ended in a 408-run thrashing, the 24-year-old, who played in India's most recent Test loss in Guwahati that sealed a 0-2 series loss to South Africa, returns to domestic T20 action. Only Yashpal Sharma's 13 off 157 against Australia in 1981 is slower than Sudharsan's lengthy innings of 14 off 139 balls against South Africa in the current second Test at Guwahati, which is India's second-slowest Test knock involving at least 100 balls. Sudharsan's inclusion is anticipated to bolster an inexperienced batting unit looking for early momentum after Tamil Nadu lost to Rajasthan by six wickets on Wednesday to start their Group D campaign. Ahmedabad is familiar to the left-hander because it is the city where he established his T20 reputation with the Gujarat Titans, for whom he was a standout opener. With 759 runs from 15 games at a strike rate of 156.17, Sudharsan had a breakout IPL 2025 season and won the Orange Cap. Tamil Nadu will be hoping he can carry this form into their SMAT campaign. India's national T20 championship will have six emerging sides, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, aiming for the plate division honours alongside the opportunity to be promoted to the elite category. The Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy's plate leg runs simultaneously with the 32-team competition in the elite bracket. Mizoram will be taking on Nagaland in the opening game of the plate division in Pune. Ahmedabad is familiar to the left-hander because it is the city where he established his T20 reputation with the Gujarat Titans, for whom he was a standout opener. With 759 runs from 15 games at a strike rate of 156.17, Sudharsan had a breakout IPL 2025 season and won the Orange Cap. Tamil Nadu will be hoping he can carry this form into their SMAT campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Varun Chakravarthy (capt), Narayan Jagadeesan (vice-capt, wk), Tushar Raheja (wk), VP Amit Sathvik, M. Shahrukh Khan, Andre Siddarth, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, Shivam Singh, R Sai Kishore, M Siddharth, T Natarajan, Gurjapneet Singh, A Esakkimuthu, R Sonu Yadav, R Silambarasan, S Rithik Easwaran (wk), Sai Sudharsan Article Source: IANS

Improvised rocket with 40 kg explosive seized in Manipur's Churachandpur

In another operation in Kangpokpi district, a large cache of arms were recovered by the forces

Kashmir Shivers As Cold Wave Intensifies, Fog Disrupts Visibility Across Several States

Kashmir faces an intense cold wave with Srinagar at minus 3.1C and Shopian at minus 5.4C. Zojila Pass drops to minus 16C. Dense fog affects Nagaland, Manipur and Odisha

BJP trying to implement CAA through SIR in border areas, alleges West Bengal CM at Bongaon rally

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday assured citizens that the Trinamool Congress will not allow the BJP Commission to take away their right to vote, during a rally at Bonagon, a bellwether constituency along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Mamata alleged that the BJP is strategically using the SIR drive to create panic among the masses. But dont get trapped by BJP. Dont be panicked at all. We wont let you leave. No one can get you out with panic when we the Trinamool Congress are with you, she said. Mamata also criticised the ECI, claiming that voters in Matua-majority areas in the state would be immediately delisted if they declared themselves foreigners under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The CM was addressing a TMC rally at Bongaon in North 24 Parganas, one of the strong citadels of the Matua community in the state. However, due to infighting within the All India Matua Mahasangha, Mamata did not visit Thakurbari in Thakurnagar, the spiritual centre of the Matuas that traditionally decides electoral fate political parties in more than 30 assembly constituencies in North 24 Parganas, Nadia and Jalpaiguri districts. The rally virtually kickstarted campaigning for the Assembly elections slated for April-May of 2026 and intensified the ongoing anti-SIR agitations. BJP has been offering certificates to you taking Rs 100 from so that you can include your names to the voters list. Their strategy is to show you Bangladeshis by offering the eligibility certificates in 2025 but the mapping was done in 2002 electoral rolls revision exercise, she stated. Mamata slammed the BJP for using deceptive tactics and luring voters into applying for CAA cards. BJP, under the leadership of Rajya Sabha MP Santanu Thakur, had been distributing CAA cards from its makeshift camps to the Matuas at Tahakurnagar so that they could enroll their names in the electoral rolls. 'How many more need to die for SIR?': Mamata attacks EC after another BLO dies by suicide in Bengal BJP is cheating people and trying to implement the CAA through backdoor of SIR. Its playing cards of religion. Why were you sitting idle for so many years? Its not possible to complete the SIR process within three months. It requires three years, she said. The CM questioned the intent of SIR, noting that only a few states like Assam, Manipur, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh, have been exempted from the exercise. She further stated that the time given for electoral roll revisions is not adequate. Mamata vowed to 'shake' the BJPs foundation across the country if she was challenged in West Bengal. She alleged that the ECI was o longer an impartial body, but has turned into a BJP Commission. The Matua community, a marginalised Hindu group, had been facing severe difficulties linking their records to the 2002 voters list during the SIR process. Members of the community had even staged a 13-day hunger strike against the SIR, under the leadership of TMC MP Mamatabala Thakur. The protesting group had expected direct interaction with Mamata. However, due to infighting within the All India Matua Mahasangha, plans were changed last minute. The pro-Trinamool faction of the Mahasangha has accused a section of the party of conspiring with BJP MP Santanu Thakur to dissuade the chief minister from visiting the shrine. Mamata participated in the march from Chandpara along Jessore Road in the area. Shamik Bhattacharya, Bengal BJP president said, The chief minister is trying to save Bangdeshi Muslims and Rohingyas by addressing in rallies and marches. Every Bangladeshi infiltrators and Rohingyas will have to leave India following the electoral rolls revisions.

SC to NIA: File status report on Manipur probe

Displaced people of Manipur clash with police forces

In Manipur, tensions flared on Monday as internally displaced individuals confronted security forces amid calls for resettlement and opposition to the ongoing Sangai festival. The atmosphere grew volatile when authorities deployed tear gas and fired warning shots to deter the hundreds of displaced persons eager to return to their homes.

Manipur: Displaced Villagers in Imphal East Clash with Security Forces over Return to Native Places

More than 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in the ethnic strife between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023 in Manipur.

IFFI 2025: Borun Thokchom's documentary 'Battlefield' makes its premiere

IFFI 2025: The full-length documentary, produced by Manjoy Lourembam, Dr. Radhesyam Oinam, and Viswamithra Universals, delves into the untold history of the fierce Battle of Imphalone of the decisive turning points of the Second World Warfought between Japanese forces and the Allied troops in Manipur.

Manipur Proposed To Remove 'Any Kuki Tribes' From ST List. Tribal Affairs Ministry Says...

The inclusion or exclusion of communities in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list in Manipur may be kept on hold due to the sensitive nature of the prevailing situation in the state, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs said in response to queries filed unde

Nearly 18 acres of illegal poppy cultivation destroyed in Manipur

The State government had previously issued warnings against people engaged in widespread poppy planting

'World will cease to exist without Hindus': RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat speaks in Manipur; quotes Iqbal

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that the world wouldn't exist without Hindus, citing the community's enduring identity. During his visit to Manipur, he urged unity and character-building for peace, emphasizing solutions within the constitutional framework and dialogue based on oneness. Bhagwat also acknowledged historical roots of regional tensions in colonial policies.

Powerful groups trying to divert attention from issue of illegal immigrants in Manipur: Biren Singh

Former Manipur CM Biren Singh also said anti-nationals and anti-State elements must not be allowed to distract from the real issue of infiltrators

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat issued BIG statement on Hindus in Manipur, says, 'If Hindu cease to exist..., Bharat is...', WATCH

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat is on a three-day visit to Manipur. While speaking at a event in Imphal, he said that Hindu society was immortal, Bharat is the name of an immortal civilisation.

'World Will Exist Only If...': RSS Chief Says 'Hindu Community Will Always Survive'

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in Manipur stressed Hindu society's immortality, linking its survival to world existence, and urged economic self-reliance for Bharat's strength.

Sangai Festival begins in Manipur amid protest

The States Rajya Sabha member, Leishemba Sanajaoba, accuses an IPS officer of barging into his residential compound

Society Made Up Its Mind: RSS Chief On Why Maoism In India Is Nearing End

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday called for social unity during a meeting with tribal leaders in Manipur's Imphal, reiterating that the organisation is purely dedicated to strengthening society.

Clashes Erupt In Manipur As Displaced People Protest Sangai Festival; Cops Injured

Hundreds of displaced people protest in Imphal valley districts against celebration of the annual Sangai tourism festival.

Manipur sees fresh clashes as IDPs protest Sangai Festival

Clashes erupted in Manipur's Imphal East district as displaced persons marched towards their abandoned homes, protesting the government's organization of the Sangai Festival amidst ongoing ethnic violence. Civil society groups also called for a cease-work campaign, disrupting normal life and highlighting the insensitivity of holding the event while thousands remain displaced.

Manipur | Clashes erupt in Imphal as protests escalate over Sangai Festival amid ongoing unrest

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Stresses Need Of a Government in Manipur

Bhagwat says restoration of unity and harmony may take some time; Manipur Congress says involvement of RSS chief will not help in resolving conflict

Manipur: Centre Against Kuki-Zos Demand for UT with Legislature

In Guwahati conclave, the communities decide to regroup, realise the objective, and propose observation of May 3 as Separation Day.

RSS involvement will not resolve Manipur crisis: Congress president Meghachandra

Reacting to the three-day tour of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, he said any visit that prioritises strengthening organisational growth over the suffering of the people sends a wrong message

RSS involvement will not resolve Manipur crisis: Congress on Mohan Bhagwat's visit

IMPHAL: Manipur Congress president Keisham Meghachandra Singh on Friday said the involvement of the RSS will solve the crisis in the state, as it requires a government-led political solution and confidence-building measures. Reacting to the three-day tour of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat , he said any visit that prioritises strengthening organisational growth over the suffering of the people sends a wrong message. The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee takes note of the visit of RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat to Manipur. At a time when Manipur is still suffering from unprecedented violence, displacement, social division, and administrative collapse, the people expected the Central Government to send a concrete plan for peace and restoration of normalcy, he said in a post on X. However, instead of addressing the humanitarian crisis and the breakdown of governance, the visit appears to be focused primarily on strengthening RSS organisational activities in the State, he added. Claiming that RSS involvement will not solve the crisis, Singh said the ongoing turmoil requires a government-led political solution, administrative accountability, and confidence-building measures. Strengthening ideological organisations will not bring peace, he added. The Congress leader said if the Centre was serious about solving the ethnic crisis in the state, it should provide a concrete roadmap for peace, a unified command structure, a plan for the safe return of displaced families, and accountability for administrative failures. MPCC reiterates that the focus must remain on restoration of normalcy, protection of all communities, and justice for victims. Political or ideological visits cannot substitute real governance, he said. Manipur needs healing, not polarisation. Any visit that prioritises organisational growth over people's suffering sends a wrong message at this critical time, he added. Bhagwat reached Imphal on Thursday, his first visit since ethnic violence broke out in the state in May 2023. During his stay, Bhagwat will hold a series of closed-door interactions with RSS members to oversee the functioning of the organisation in the northeastern state. He will also interact with entrepreneurs, tribal leaders from the Manipur hills, prominent citizens and leaders of youth organisations in the state. Manipur has been under the President's Rule since February after CM N Biren Singh, who led a BJP government, resigned amid criticism of his administration's handling of the ethnic violence, which has claimed over 260 lives. RSS tries its hand at solving Manipur stalemate, weighs in on BJP chiefs appointment

RSS involvement will not resolve Manipur crisis: Congress

Imphal: Manipur Congress president Keisham Meghachandra Singh on Friday said the involvement of the RSS will solve the crisis in the state, as it requires a government-led political solution and confidence-building measures. Reacting to the three-day tour of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, he said any visit that prioritises strengthening organisational growth over the suffering of 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 .

Protesters attempt to storm festival venue in Manipur; police resort to lathi charge

Agitators said authorities should first resolve the ethnic conflict in the State and resettle internally displaced persons before organising extravagant festivals; Metei outfit to hold mass sit-in today

COCOMI clashes erupt outside Hatta Kangjeibung, Sangai Festival 2025 site

Tension flared at Imphal's Sangai Festival venue as police used tear gas on protesters. Demonstrators voiced opposition to the festival proceeding amid displacement. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity condemned the security forces' actions. The festival is scheduled to begin on November 21 after a two-year hiatus.

Whether Government Knows Or Not, We Are Concerned: Mohan Bhagwat In Manipur

Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the BJP's ideological mentor Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, has told the people of Manipur that the state has been in the thoughts of the organisation even if the government did not know about it.

'Destruction Matter Of 2 Mins, But Construction...': RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat In Manipur

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat said that rebuilding peace and trust will take time, even if things appear calm on the outside.

Peace needs patience: Bhagwat calls for community-led stability in Manipur

Satellite-tagged falcons reach Africa in epic migration from Manipur

IAS officer Supriya Sahu described the journey as a display of raw beauty of migration, precision, instinct, wind, stamina, and courage, praising the incredible feat of these migratory birds

Efforts on to restore stability in Manipur at community level: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed dignitaries in Imphal, emphasizing community and societal efforts to restore stability in Manipur. He highlighted the importance of patience and collective effort in peacebuilding, while also discussing the RSS's organic growth and its objective to organize the entire Hindu society.

Protest over Sangai Festival turns tense amid ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur

GUWAHATI: Protestors on Thursday clashed with security forces outside the venue of the Sangai Festival in Imphal, a day before the tourism event was scheduled to begin, amid continuing ethnic tensions in Manipur. The confrontation erupted when the protestors attempted to storm the festivals main venue opposing the celebrations. Security personnel used tear gas and batons to restore order. The protestors said the authorities should prioritise resolving the ethnic conflict and resettling internally displaced persons (IDPs) instead of going ahead with a tourism festival. The ethnic violence had earlier left more than 260 people dead and around 60,000 displaced. The Meitei organisation, Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), said it had staged a mass agitation together with the IDPs and the people of Manipur against what it called the state administrations unilateral decision to proceed with the Sangai Festival. COCOMI condemned the brutal and unprovoked actions of the security forces against peaceful protestors that resulted in injuries to several individuals. One of its leaders was arrested by the police. Such excessive and targeted use of force upon civil society leaders is a clear violation of democratic norms and fundamental civic rights, COCOMI said in a statement. The organisation criticised the Governor-led administration operating under Presidents Rule for pushing forward an anti-people Sangai Festival 2025 without the consent, cooperation, or confidence of the people of Manipur. At a time when thousands of our own people remain displaced, when normalcy is yet to be restored, and when the wounds of violence are still fresh, the states insistence on an extravagant festival is insensitive, misplaced, and against the wishes of the people, COCOMI said. It stated categorically that before any celebration took place, the state must restore the fundamental rights and freedom of movement of all citizens, ensure the safe return of all IDPs to their homes, re-establish peace and normalcy across the state, and stop all forms of coercion and suppression against civilian voices. The organisation also called upon all citizens to join a mass sit-in demonstration on 21 November with the declarations: we will not take part in the Sangai Festival 2025 and restore our fundamental rights before Sangai Festival.

Five Reasons Why RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwats Manipur Visit Is Set To Reset States Political Course

What happens in Manipur next will now be determined as much by the Sanghs reading of the ground as by the Centres calculus. And, Bhagwats presence bridges both.

Two 150-gm Indian falcons Apang and Alang fly 5,000 km from Manipur to Africa, leaving scientists stunned

Two satellite-tagged Amur falcons have successfully completed their nearly 5,000-kilometer migration from Manipur, India, to Somalia. These birds, tracked under a wildlife project, undertook an extraordinary nonstop flight across the Arabian Sea. This remarkable journey highlights the species' incredible flight capacity and successful conservation efforts.

Frame national policy, uniform rules on organ transplant, SC tells Centre

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued a slew of directions to the Centre to frame a national policy and uniform rules in consultation with states to ensure a transparent and efficient system for organ donation and allocation. A bench comprising Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran passed the directions on a PIL filed by the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation (ISOT). The CJI requested the Centre to persuade Andhra Pradesh to adopt the 2011 amendments to the Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994. In its order, the bench directed the Union government to frame a national policy containing model allocation criteria. While ordering the Centre to establish necessary bodies and guidelines under the National Organ Transplantation Programmeafter consulting the statesthe apex court said these guidelines must ensure proper post-donation care and safeguards. The policy must eliminate state-wise discrepancies and ensure uniform criteria for donors across the country. The new framework must directly address gender- and caste-based disparities that affect access to organ transplantation, the bench said. Noting that Manipur, Nagaland, Andaman and Nicobar, and Lakshadweep lack a State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTO), the bench asked the Centre to constitute these bodies under the National Organ Transplantation Programme after consulting the states. On the issue of saving live donors from exploitation, it asked the Centre to evolve guidelines for the welfare of live donors, ensuring they are cared for post-donation and to prevent their commercialisation and exploitation. The PIL filed by ISOT highlighted absence of a consolidated national donorrecipient database, disparities in access due to class and gender, and the dominance of private hospitalsconducting nearly 90% of transplants. In one of its earlier hearings, the court had sought detailed state-wise statistics on the implementation of transplant laws. Also in top court Activist gets bail in Elgar Parishad case The Supreme Court on Wednesday granted interim bail to activist Jyoti Jagtap, who was arrested in 2020 in the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Satish Chandra Sharma passed the order. The HC had said Jagtap was an active member of the Kabir Kala Manch group, while denying bail. Verdict on Prez reference today The Supreme Courts five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the CJI B R Gavai, will pronounce the judgement on Thursday on President Droupadi Murmus reference case on whether timelines can be imposed on Governors and the President for granting assent to State bills.The bench of the apex court had reserved its verdict on September 11.

COCOMI calls for boycott of Sangai Festival 2025

COCOMI, a prominent organization in Manipur, is advocating for a full boycott of the upcoming Sangai Festival 2025. They invite the public to join a protest on November 20, highlighting the challenges faced by displaced communities.

Mohan Bhagwat to Embark on 3-day Visit to Manipur Tomorrow

First visit by RSS chief since 2023 ethnic clashes

Nagaland CM urges Amit Shah to review re-imposed Protected Area Permit

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to reconsider the Protected Area Permit regime. The permit was reinstated for Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram citing border security. Rio argues Nagaland's situation is peaceful and stable. He warns the new restrictions will harm tourism and economic growth.

RSS chief to visit Manipur for first time since ethnic violence broke out

Imphal: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to arrive in Manipur on November 20 for the first time since ethnic violence broke out two years ago, a functionary of the organisation said on Wednesday. During his three-day stay, Bhagwat will interact with citizens, entrepreneurs, and representatives of the tribal community, RSS state general secretary Tarunkumar 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 .

In First Visit Since 2023 Unrest, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat To Reach Manipur Tomorrow

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will visit Manipur on Thursday, marking his first trip to the state since the 2023 ethnic unrest.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat To Visit Manipur Tomorrow | News18 Explains The Significance Of The Visit

| RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to visit Manipur tomorrow. News18's @payalmehta100 explains why this visit will be significant Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to visit Manipur for first time since 2023 ethnic violence

IMPHAL: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to arrive in Manipur on November 20 for the first time since ethnic violence broke out two years ago, a functionary of the organisation said on Wednesday. During his three-day stay, Bhagwat will interact with citizens, entrepreneurs, and representatives of the tribal community, RSS state general secretary Tarunkumar Sharma told PTI . Our Sarsanghchalak's visit to the state is in connection with the centenary celebrations of the RSS. He is arriving from Guwahati on November 20 and will leave on November 22, he said. This will be Bhagwat's first visit since the violence broke out two years ago, another RSS functionary said, adding that he had last visited the state in 2022. As part of his itinerary, separate interactive sessions will be held with prominent citizens, Janajati (tribal) community representatives, and youth leaders, Sharma said. On the day of his arrival, he will be meeting with entrepreneurs and eminent individuals at a programme at Konjeng Leikai in Imphal. On November 21, Bhagwat will meet and interact with tribal leaders from the Manipur hills, he said. Asked if the RSS chief will be visiting relief camps, where internally displaced people have been staying for the last two years, he said, This is not in the schedule as of now. The visit is mostly an internal part of the organisation. More than 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023. The Centre had imposed the President's rule in Manipur after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned. The state assembly, which has a tenure till 2027, has been put under suspended animation.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat To Visit Manipur For First Time Since Ethnic Violence Broke Out In 2023

Imphal, Nov 19: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to arrive in Manipur on November 20 for the first time since ethnic violence broke out two years ago, a functionary of the organisation said on Wednesday. During his three-day stay, Bhagwat will interact with citizens, entrepreneurs, and representatives of the tribal community, RSS state general secretary Tarunkumar Sharma said. Our Sarsanghchalaks visit to the state is in connection with the centenary celebrations of the RSS. He is arriving from Guwahati [] The post RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat To Visit Manipur For First Time Since Ethnic Violence Broke Out In 2023 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Meghalaya vs Manipur match heads towards draw

Ranji Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 18: Meghalayas match against Manipur in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 plate group looks like it is heading for a draw, with only a terrific bowling effort capable of snatching victory for either team on the final day on Wednesday. On Tuesday Manipur, resuming on 180/4, were all out []

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to visit strife-torn Manipur

Visit comes amid talks for popular government formation; RSS chief had earlier called for peace in the State

Manipur govt urges public to back Sangai Festival 2025 amid boycott calls

Manipur government appeals for participation in the 2025 Sangai Festival, scheduled for November 21-30, after a two-year hiatus. The festival aims to showcase the state's culture and heritage, fostering economic revival and unity amidst ongoing relief efforts for Internally Displaced Persons. Some organizations have called for a boycott.

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla reviews border-fencing works on Indo-Myanmar border

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla reviewed the progress of ongoing border-fencing works along the 398 km Indo-Myanmar border. Senior BRO officers briefed him on construction, operational issues, and security concerns. The government pledged support to expedite the remaining fencing, which aims to secure the 1,643 km porous border.

Manipur governor reviews narcotics trends, seeks tighter border surveillance and coordinated operations

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla led the 10th State Level NCORD meeting, emphasizing enhanced coordination among law enforcement and security agencies. The session reviewed drug trafficking trends and illicit cultivation, with directives issued to accelerate plantation destruction, improve prosecution, and integrate supply and demand reduction strategies.

Manipur: Security forces nab 4 militants, seize major cache of arms and explosives

Among the arrested is dreaded militant Koijam Ibochouba alias Inao alias Sumo, police confirmed.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat begins two-day Assam visit, to travel to Manipur next

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is on a two-day visit to Assam as part of the organization's centenary celebrations. He will engage with intellectuals and young minds, and address a citizens' meet on Tuesday. Bhagwat will then proceed to Manipur on November 20 for similar outreach programs.

At Republics Edge: Ladakh, Manipur, and Federalism

The celebratory rhetoric of empowerment promised in 2019 has given way to a pervasive unease that sits at the heart of Ladakhs political life.

Meghalaya in control on Day 1 against Manipur

Ranji Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 16: Meghalayas two guest professionals, Rahul Dalal and Ajay Duhan, both made centuries on the first day of their Ranji Trophy 2025-26 plate group match against Manipur in Surat on Sunday. Rahul bludgeoned 151 from 146 balls in an innings that included 23 fours and three sixes, while []

Nagaland CM calls for popular government in Manipur, Naga issue resolution

In an interview with ET, Neiphiu Rio said he founded the NPF and later the NDPP and the two parties merged to work for early resolution of the Naga political issue. The one common agenda of the Opposition-less government is that the Naga issue be resolved amicably, Rio said.

Security forces clear 25 acres of illegal poppy fields in Manipurs Kangpokpi district

Security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district have destroyed approximately 25 acres of illegal poppy cultivation. This joint operation, involving Assam Rifles, CRPF, and Manipur Police, dealt a significant blow to drug networks by preventing the yield of over 170 kg of opium. The crackdown underscores efforts to foster a drug-free Northeast and promote regional stability.

SGPC considers ban on lone women in Pakistan pilgrimage groups after devotee goes missing

CHANDIGARH: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) is considering barring lone women from joining pilgrimage groups (jathas) to Pakistan after 48-year-old Sarabjeet Kaur, a devotee from Punjab, went missing during a recent pilgrimage. Kaur reportedly converted to Islam, adopted the name Noor Hussain, and married Nasir Hussain of Sheikhupura soon after entering Pakistan. Police and SGPC officials later confirmed that she has three cheating and fraud cases registered against her in Punjab. Kaur was part of a 1,932-member jatha that crossed the Attari-Wagah border on November 4 for Guru Nanak Devs 556th birth anniversary celebrations. When the group returned on November 13, she was missing. An 18-second video circulating on social media shows Kaur stating before a magistrate that she had known Nasir for nine years, loved him, and was willingly converting and marrying him. I am currently divorced and willingly marrying him, she says. The clip has not been independently verified, though Pakistani media reported that the nikah took place on November 5. Following the incident, SGPC secretary Partap Singh said this was the second such case, citing the 2018 instance of Kiran Bala, now Amna Bibi, who also stayed back in Pakistan after converting to Islam and marrying there. He said the SGPC had initially objected to Kaur travelling alone but allowed her after she produced recommendations from her village sarpanch and nambardar. Singh blamed central agencies for failing to detect that Kaur was already in contact with a Pakistani national. It is a failure of the agencies that they did not sense she was already in contact with a Pakistani national and that her visit was pre-planned, he said. Singh also added that Kaur has hurt the religious sentiments of the Sikh community and brought a bad name to the pilgrimage process. Woman pilgrim goes missing in Pakistan after Guru Nanak birth anniversary visit Police investigations revealed that Kaurs criminal background included three fraud and cheating cases in Bathinda and Kapurthala, while her sons, Lovejot Singh and Navjot Singh, had nine cases of fraud, assault and cheating registered against them in Kapurthala, Sultanpur Lodhi and Kabirpur. Officials said Kaur listed a permanent address in Malout on her passport, but did not provide her citizenship or passport number on her Pakistan visa immigration form. Her husband has been living in the United Kingdom for over fifteen years, and her sons were reportedly not on talking terms with her. Kapurthala SSP Gaurav Toora said police have met Kaurs sons, visited her village in Amanipur, and are coordinating with central agencies to understand her motives for visiting Pakistan. Gurinder Kaur, who headed the jatha, immediately informed SGPC member from Sultanpur Lodhi, Gurpreet Kaur, and asked her to visit Kaurs house in Amanipur. Gurpreet, who had recommended Sarabjeet Kaurs name, said she had recommended ten pilgrims in total. SGPC officials said the incident has hurt religious sentiments and brought disrepute to the pilgrimage process, prompting the body to reconsider allowing lone women to join jathas travelling to Pakistan.

Security forces destroy poppy plantations in over 470 acres in Manipur

GUWAHATI: Security forces in Manipur destroyed poppy plantations in over 470 acres of land during multiple joint operations carried out in two hill districts over the past few days. A joint team of police, Assam Rifles and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) destroyed poppy plantations in around 20 acres of land at Loibol Khullen village under New Keithelmanbi police station in Kangpokpi district on Saturday. Two sacks of salt packets found at the plantation site were seized, while spray pumps, pipes, herbicides etc, used in cultivation were destroyed and burnt. A statement from the defence ministry said the operation was launched based on intelligence regarding illicit poppy cultivation. Conducted under challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions, the operation highlights the unwavering efforts of Assam Rifles to curb illicit narcotics cultivation and dismantle the financial networks that fuel insurgency and other anti-national activities, the statement said. It added that the successful operation reaffirmed the Assam Rifles commitment to a drug-free Northeast and to promoting long-term peace, stability and socio-economic development in the region. In another operation in the district the same day, a joint team of police, CRPF and forest officials destroyed poppy plantations spread over about 20 acres in the Kotlen hill ranges. Five huts were burnt down, and three bags of fertiliser, two roundup herbicides and two bags of salt were destroyed. Security forces carried out extensive poppy plantation destruction also in the hill ranges of Somdal, Lamlai Chingfei and Litan in Ukhrul district in collaboration with other government agencies from November 11 to 15. Poppy plantations around 436 acres of land were destroyed, and 51 huts found at the sites were burnt down, the police said.

Destruction of illegal poppy fields intensified in Manipur

The security forces have destroyed plants, huts, and equipment on 476 acres in five days of operation in Kangpokpi and Ukhrul districts

Manipur govt urges Aviation ministry to intervene and help reduce airfares on routes connected to Imphal

Manipur government has appealed to the Ministry of Civil Aviation to address the exorbitant airfares on routes to Imphal. The state seeks more flights and a reduction in ticket prices, which are reportedly five to six times higher than in other Northeast states.

Manipur police cautions people against circulating video showing militants heading towards India from Myanmar

Manipur police are warning the public about a video circulating online. The video shows armed militants in Myanmar and claims they are moving towards Manipur. Police state that sharing such content can cause fear and panic. They assure citizens that security forces are on high alert, especially in border areas.

Manipur Police Arrest Two People From Assam With 18.2 Kg Opium

Two people from Kamrup, Assam were arrested in Senapati, Manipur after 18.2 kg of opium was seized. Security forces continue operations amid ongoing ethnic violence since May 2023.

More than 18kg of opium seized in Manipur; two from Assam held

The contraband was seized in the presence of a magistrate and independent witnesses, a senior officer said

Undo 2003 NDA blunder with Kuki tribe classification, BJP told

The Thadou Inpi Manipur seeks deletion of AKT category from Manipur ST list

Woman pilgrim goes missing in Pakistan after Guru Nanak birth anniversary visit

CHANDIGARH: A woman Sikh devotee has gone missing in Pakistan after travelling as part of the 1,932-member Indian Sikh jatha that crossed into the neighbouring country via AttariWagah on 4 November to attend the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. Sources said the group of Sikh devotees returned to India yesterday, with 1,922 pilgrims accounted for, as eight members of the jatha, including Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Kuldip Singh Gargaj, had returned earlier on 9 November. However, Sarbjit Kaur, hailing from Amanipur village in Kapurthala district, did not return and went missing from the group. She did not mention her citizenship and passport number in the immigration form, raising concerns about her disappearance. It is learnt that her name was reportedly not found in the immigration records while exiting Pakistan nor in the records for re-entry into India. State and central agencies are now looking into the matter. Authorities are trying to trace her previous links to determine how, and through what means, she went missing inside Pakistan. It is also learnt that agencies are trying to trace her family members and have approached the Ministry of External Affairs and the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi. Meanwhile, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee confirmed that Kaur was part of the devotees who crossed into the neighbouring country through the AttariWagah Integrated Check Post. Meanwhile, another devotee who was part of the group, 67-year-old Sukhwinder Singh from Chawke village in Bathinda district, died due to cardiac arrest at Gujranwala in Pakistan on 10 November. Earlier, at least 14 Hindu pilgrims who were part of the jatha were denied entry by Pakistan authorities at the Wagah border check post. These pilgrims, who had Indian passports but were of Pakistan origin, were then sent back, said people privy to the information. The jatha visited Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal, Gurdwara Sacha Sauda in Farooqabad, and Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur before it returned to India on 13 November. The Pakistani government had granted visas to 2,150 Indian Sikh devotees to attend the 10-day festival marking the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.

No, This Video Doesnt Show Weapons Being Found Inside a Mosque in Manipur

Neither is this video recent nor does it have any connection with Manipur.

32 Bikers And Locals Clash In Kuki Village In Manipur; Incident Not Communal, Say Cops

A group of bikers and locals clashed after an altercation over dangerous driving and noise at a village of the Kuki tribe in Manipur's Ukhrul district, the police said.

Security forces wipe out 25 acres of illicit poppy in Manipur

Security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district have eradicated approximately 25 acres of illicit poppy cultivation, preventing the production of opium valued at several crores. The operation, conducted by Assam Rifles, CRPF, and Manipur Police, also dismantled eight processing and storage huts. This action highlights the commitment to combating drug trafficking and its links to anti-national activities.

BJP leaders visit to Manipur sparks speculation over government formation

GUWAHATI: Speculation is rife in ethnic violence-hit Manipur over the possible formation of a new government, with the state remaining under Presidents Rule since 13 February this year. The buzz was triggered by the sudden visit of BJP national general secretary (organisation) B.L. Santhosh and the partys Northeast coordinator Sambit Patra to the state. The two leaders arrived in Imphal on Wednesday for a two-day visit, following demands from BJP legislators for the formation of a popular government. A BJP legislator said the two central leaders had come to guide the states leadership in the run-up to the Assembly elections, which are scheduled to be held in early 2027. They interacted with different groups of people and party MLAs. They came to guide us so that we perform well in the 2027 elections, the BJP legislator said, requesting anonymity. They said with conviction that the government will be formed and asked us to remove any other notion that we may have. They said we will go to elections with our own government, the MLA further stated. He, however, added that he had no idea when the government would be formed. The legislator dismissed media reports suggesting that Santhosh and Patras visit was aimed at reaching a consensus on the chief ministerial candidate. There was no discussion at all on the matter, he said. During their visit, Santhosh and Patra also interacted with eminent personalities in Imphal on Wednesday before travelling to Kuki-majority Churachandpur and Naga-majority Senapati districts on Thursday. In Churachandpur, they met party leaders and visited a relief camp where they distributed relief materials to internally displaced persons and interacted with children. In Senapati, they attended a meeting with village chiefs and members of the Development Council of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group, where local BJP leaders were also present. Manipur was placed under Presidents Rule after the BJP failed to reach a consensus on a successor to N. Biren Singh, who had resigned as Chief Minister on 9 February. His resignation came just a day before his government was due to face a no-confidence motion and a floor test. The resignation followed nearly two years of ethnic violence that began in May 2023 and left the state internally divided. Over 260 people have been killed and around 60,000 others displaced since the unrest began. A large majority of the displaced continue to stay in relief camps. Singhs resignation came amid mounting pressure from the Opposition, which had been demanding his removal over his alleged failure to restore peace in the state.

IIT-Manipur, GSH sign MoU to collaborate on sustainable facility management solutions

Central BJP leaders Santhosh and Patra in Imphal to assess political, ground situation in Manipur

Last month, 26 BJP MLAs, including Biren Singh, had met Santhosh and Patra in New Delhi and urged the party leadership to install a popular government in Manipur, expressing readiness to resume governance as a united team. Former Chief Minister Biren Singh, who resigned on February 9, just four days before Presidents Rule was imposed, recently said that all BJP legislators in Manipur remain united in their efforts to form a popular government in the state.

BJP Leader BL Santoshs Manipur Visit Fuels Talk of Restoring Elected Govt

Central leadership begins groundwork to assess feasibility of reviving popular government amid ethnic tensions and Presidents Rule

Woman among four militants arrested in Manipur

Two active cadres of the banned People's Liberation Army involved in extortion, were arrested from Dibong Sanakhong area in Jiribam district, police said

Manipur Administration Begins Identifying Safe Zones For Displaced Families | Exclusive

The issue of internally displaced people remains one of the most critical challenges in Manipur

MPSC Reschedules Manipur Civil Service Mains Exams Due To Printing Error

The Manipur Civil Services Combined Competitive Mains exams, originally set for November 9 to 11, 2025, faced delays after a printing error was found at exam centres in Imphal and Guwahati.

MHA releases Rs 900 crore helicopter subsidy scheme for north-eastern states

NEW DELHI: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has released a little over Rs 900 crore for seven north-eastern states under the helicopter subsidy scheme for the financial years in the period from 2015-16 to 2024-25, officials said on Monday. They said that as part of the scheme to provide connectivity to remote areas of the north-eastern states, the helicopter subsidy is being administered by the MHA. The states include Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur. The scheme aims to provide affordable passenger transport in the north-eastern region of the country and assistance is given for evacuation during natural calamities and for urgent medical evacuation. The MHA will bear 75% of the total cost of operation after deducting passenger recovery or a flat 20 percent of the actual operation cost, whichever is more, according to a policy note issued by the North East Division of MHA. For the purpose of restricting the subsidy, the MHA has also fixed an annual ceiling on the flying hours for the seven eligible states. Giving the break for each financial year, the officials said Rs 76.45 crore is given for 2015-16, Rs 86 crore for 2016-17, Rs 86 crore for 2017-18, Rs 90 crore for 2018-19, Rs 100 crore for 2019-20, Rs 72.50 crore for 2020-21, Rs 100 crore for 2021-22, Rs 100 crore for 2022-23, Rs 88 crore for 2023-24 and Rs 110 crore for 2024-25, which is the highest so far. The types of helicopters operating in the northeastern region include Dauphin, MI-172, Bell 412, and Bell 407, among other models. Each state has a fixed number of flying hours per annum sanctioned by the MHA, as Tripura has 480 hours, Arunachal Pradesh 3,460 hours, Sikkim 1,200 hours, Meghalaya 720 hours, Nagaland 480 hours and Mizoram 960 hours.

Woman, 23, Dies Of Electrocution While Using Water Heater Rod In Delhi

A 23-year-old woman from Manipur died of electrocution while heating water with an electric rod at her house in southwest Delhi's Mahipalpur, police said on Monday.

Question paper mix-up hits Manipur civil services exam

The Manipur Public Service Commission cancelled two papers of General Studies after candidates received the wrong set

Centre Rules Out Creation Of New Union Territory Amid Kuki-Zo Demand In Manipur

MHA met Kuki National Organisation and United Peoples Front to discuss Kuki-Zo demand for a UT, tribal grievances, and rehabilitation amid Manipurs ongoing ethnic crisis.

Error mars Manipur civil services mains as wrong paper handed out

The Manipur Civil Services Mains Examination 2022 faced disruption due to a question paper error. Candidates at Imphal and Guwahati received the wrong General Studies paper. The Manipur Public Service Commission cancelled two papers and rescheduled them for November 22. The error originated at the printing press. Aspirants expressed anger over the incident.

News18 Afternoon Digest: IAF Fly-Past To Honour Op Sindoor Heroes, New Manipur Govt Likely Soon & More

We are also covering: Tej Pratap Yadav alleges threat to his life; Japan issues earthquake and tsunami warnings and OpenAiI facing lawsuits over mental health breakdowns.

Manipur To Get New Government Soon? What Sources Tell News18 Amid Presidents Rule

Sources to News18: BJP and its allies have reached a consensus in Manipur. BJPs Sambit Patra, BL Santosh are expected to visit Manipur later this week to take the process forward

When justice is accessible to all, it becomes the foundation of social justice: PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised that ease of doing business and ease of living are only possible when ease of justice is ensured. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Conference on 'Strengthening Legal Aid Delivery Mechanisms' and the Celebration of 'Legal Services Day' event on Saturday, he said several steps have been taken in recent years to enhance access to justice, and efforts will continue to be accelerated. When justice is accessible to all, delivered on time, and reaches every individual regardless of their social or financial background, that is when it truly becomes the foundation of social justice, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Highlighting the importance of legal aid, he noted that legal services authorities, from the national to the taluka level, act as a bridge between the judiciary and the common citizen. He expressed satisfaction that through Lok Adalats and pre-litigation settlements, lakhs of disputes are being resolved swiftly, amicably, and at low cost. He noted that under the Legal Aid Defence Counsel System initiated by the government, nearly 8 lakh criminal cases have been resolved in just three years. These efforts, he remarked, have ensured ease of justice for the poor, the oppressed, the deprived, and the marginalised across the country. He launched the Community Mediation Training Module at the event, highlighting technologys transformative role in promoting inclusion and empowerment within the justice system. Modi cited the eCourts project as a remarkable example of this digital transformation in justice delivery. When people understand the law in their own language, it leads to better compliance and reduces litigation; it is equally essential that judgements and legal documents are made available in local languages, Modi added. Marking 30 years of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) this year, Modi lauded its efforts to connect the judiciary with underprivileged citizens. He observed that those who approach legal services authorities often lack resources, representation, and at times, even hope. Providing them with hope and assistance, he said, is the true meaning of the word service, which is embedded in NALSAs name. Emphasising the importance of legal awareness, the Prime Minister stated that a poor individual cannot access justice until they are aware of their rights, understand the law, and overcome fear of the systems complexity. He stressed that raising legal awareness among vulnerable groups, women, and the elderly is a priority and expressed confidence that youth, particularly law students, can play a transformative role in this effort. He suggested that law students be encouraged to engage with poor and rural communities to explain their legal rights and processes, as this would help them gain direct insight into the pulse of society. He added that by collaborating with self-help groups, cooperatives, Panchayati Raj institutions, and other grassroots networks, legal knowledge can be delivered to every doorstep. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, speaking at the event, said the government is committed to continuous reform of the justice delivery system under the Reform, Perform, and Transform mantra. He highlighted initiatives such as the Disha scheme (Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice) and the Tele-Law programme, which has provided pre-litigation advice to over one crore beneficiaries since its launch in 2017. He added that to promote legal literacy and awareness in local languages, AI-based linguistic tools are being used to drive innovative justice initiatives. He also praised NALSA for its compassionate work through special schemes for disadvantaged groups, including victims of violence, disaster-affected persons, prisoners, trafficking victims, unorganised workers, children, persons with disabilities, tribal communities, and senior citizens. The CJI B R Gavai, addressing the gathering, said that whenever we were in doubt, we should recall the face of the poorest and weakest person we have seen and ask ourselves whether the step we contemplate will be of any use to them. This idea of a talisman finds its expression in the movement and work of our legal services institutions. This movement is, in many ways, Gandhijis talisman in action. The right of every citizen, and our role as judges, lawyers and officers of the court, is to ensure that the light of justice reaches even the last person standing at the margins of society. Very often, we take pride in the number of merit cases we help resolve, but what truly matters is what it means to those who receive free legal aid, the CJI said. Remembering an incident during his visit to a relief camp in the state of Manipur to distribute aid, the CJI said, a young boy came up and said, Bane raho, bhaiya. That moment was a reminder that the strength of the legal services movement does not lie in statistics or annual reports. It lies in the quiet gratitude and renewed faith of once invisible citizens. In other words, the real measure of success is not in the numbers but in the trust of the common person and in their belief that someone, somewhere, will stand by them. That is why our work must always be guided by the spirit that we are changing lives. Even your presence for a single day in a village, or your conversation with a person in distress, can be life-changing for someone who has never had anyone come for them before, the CJI added.

MHA rejects Kuki-Zo demand for union territory with legislature in Manipur

The Ministry of Home Affairs has rejected the demand for Union Territories with legislatures for the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur. Despite pleas from tribal MLAs and armed groups, the MHA stated its current policy does not support new Union Territories and emphasized the need for broader consultations.

Manipur Kuki groups hold their ground on Union Territory demand

Two umbrella groups of about 25 armed Kuki groups held meetings with the Advisor to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs over two days

Manipur's Kuki leaders meet MHA advisor; hill communities seek legislative autonomy

GUWAHATI: The Kukis in Manipur have maintained their demand for a Union Territory (UT) for their community. Leaders of the Kuki National Organisation and the United Peoples Fronttwo umbrella bodies representing around 25 Kuki insurgent groups that had earlier signed a suspension of operations (SoO) agreement with the governmentreiterated the UT demand during meetings with Ministry of Home Affairs advisor (Northeast) AK Mishra on November 6 and 7. During the discussions, the Kuki leaders stated that co-existence under the Manipur state administrative setup is no longer possible following the violent ethnic cleansing that began on May 3, 2023. Historical justifications were highlighted for the political demand, noting that the Kuki-Zo Hills were never under the control of the Manipur State Durbar before Independence. It was also pointed out that under British rule, the Kuki-Zo lands and other tribal areas were classified as Excluded Areas under the Government of India Act, 1935, the Kuki groups said in a joint statement. They were administered directly by the British Political Agent, not by the Meitei king. Kuki-Zo governance rested with traditional chiefs, who exercised complete control over land, justice, and local affairs, the statement added. The Kuki groups noted that when the British unified the administration for convenience, dual governance remained: the valley was under the Maharajas rule, and the hills were under the British Political Agent. They further stated that the tribal people had never been organically part of Manipur State before 1947administratively, politically, or culturally. Given this history, the Kuki-Zo representatives maintained that their demand for Union Territory status with a legislature is rooted in constitutional and historical legitimacy, the statement said. It further stated that the post-merger integration of Manipur in 1949 unfairly absorbed the hill regions into a valley-centric governance structure, disregarding tribal autonomy and traditional rights. The government compensated only the Meitei king, not the Kuki-Zo chiefs. Creating a separate administrative unit for the hill tribes within the constitutional framework of India would not be an act of secession, but a restoration of our pre-independence autonomy and a step toward lasting equitable governance, security, and development within the Indian Union, the statement added. During the meeting, the statement noted, Mishra reiterated that while the Centre is sensitive to the plight of the Kuki-Zo people, current policy does not support the creation of new Union Territories. He also stressed the need for consultations with other communities in Manipur.