Outline of the history of KSO office plot at Kabo leikai
The KSO since its establishment had always felt the need for a suitable building to serve as its office in the state capital, Imphal. So it was the prerogative of the KSO to be in possession of an office building in Imphal when Mr. Isaac Thangjom donated a piece of land measuring 100x30 ft located at Kabo Leikai on 16th June 2000. The entire homestead land that is covered by C.S. Dag No. 692/693 under Patta No.601 (Old) measuring 0.50 acres was allotted by the Director of Settlement & Land Records, Manipur to Ms. Jolly Thangjom for the purpose of setting up of a school in 1974. Eventually Ms. Thangjom constructed and run a school named ‘The Good Shepherd School’. However, the school could not be run for long due to financial difficulties and poor health of the owner. Subsequently in 1989, the plot of land was mutated in the name of Paominlal Isaac Thangjom, the only son of Ms. Jolly Thangjom. Since then, the plot was in the name of Isaac Thangjom and all necessary government tax was levied on him.
The Thangjom family, in order to earn some income, rented out some of the rooms of the existing school building on 23 July 1995 to one Th. Ibobi and Thangjam Bimol Singh who set up stores. As time passed by, Th. Ibobi started scheming to grab the plot of land and filed a lawsuit on Mr. Thangjom. Th. Ibobi with the help of his brother in law, Mr. N. Meghachandra, who was the serving president of AISF (M), sought the help of the AISF who then claimed the plot of land as belong to AISF. On 17-11-98, about 20 members of the AISF forcibly dismantled the building rented out to one Nigombam Lukhoi as vehicular workshop and constructed AISF’s office in its place. In retaliation Mr. Lukhoi also filed a case against Th. Ibobi and AISF.
Mr. LS Thangjom was an IAS officer and a well wisher of the KSO during his lifetime. In his memory Mr. Isaac decided to donate a portion of the land measuring 100x30ft in the northern side for construction of KSO office. Therefore, on 16th June 2000, the plot of land was gifted to the president of KSO General Headquarters, Mr. Paokam Haokip who accepted on KSO’s behalf.
On 26-08-2002, the Civil Judge Senior Division –II court quashed all pending lawsuits over the plot of land and ruled in favour of the rightful owner, Mr. Isaac Thangjom. But Th. Ibobi, in collusion with the AISF continued to occupy the plot of land with the support and backing of some politicians, much to the chagrin of the KSO. Since the KSO also owned a part of the land it decided to take up the matter at the highest level. The KSO sought an audience with the Chief Minister and apprised him of the case and the hon’ble CM consoled the KSO that the matter shall be sorted out at the earliest. But, when nothing conclusive came to pass in 9 months time, the KSO decided to lay its office’s foundation stone and demanded of the government to clear out all encroachers from the premises within 3 December 2003. Then, on 27 December 2003, a flag hoisting ceremony was performed by the president of KSO General Headquarters. But in the evening of that day police O.C. Jyotin Singh intervened and unhoist the KSO flag terming the plot of land as disputed. The KSO then held a meeting with the CM and some of his council of ministers including the revenue minister Pu Biramani who acknowledged the plot of land as rightfully belongs to the KSO.
From 3 February 2004 volunteers of KSO constructed a makeshift camp and started occupying the plot. On 6 February 2004, the leaders of All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) in showing solidarity with the KSO came and inspected the office plot. The UCM also supported the stand of the KSO and sided with the KSO leaders.
On 3 February 2004 the AISF lead by its president N. Meghachandra intruded with force which led to a confrontation with the KSO and AMSU volunteers. With the support and help of the AMSU the KSO continued to occupy the plot of land.
On 5 June 2004, the KSO held a joint meeting with AMSU, UCM, ATSUM, ACTSOM, AMKIL, and KIM at Kuki Inn, Imphal and adopted a resolution and submitted a joint ultimatum to the Chief Minister for immediate settlement of the case in favour of its rightful owner, Mr. Isaac Thangjom and the KSO, failing which they decided to take up any form of agitation they deemed fit.
On 18 March 2005, the Secretariat: Revenue Department of the Govt. of Manipur issued an orders No. 21/115/72-R whereas the Governor of Manipur declared the claim of the AISF as null and viod abnitio, making the way clear for Mr. Isaac Thangjom and the KSO to occupy the plot.
On 11 December 2006, at about 8.30 a.m members of KSO including the executive members of KSO GHQ viz. P. Simte (President), Th Richard (Vice President), Thangminlen Haokip (General Secretary), Paotinthang Lupheng (Information Secretary) formally occupy the plot of land and erected temporary fencing around 100x50 ft. Within the compound they built a makeshift 2 room office with zinc roof provided by Pu Thangminlen Kipgen, the hon’ble MLA. Pu Ngamthang Haokip (Hon’ble Minister FCS), Pu N. Biren (Hon’ble MLA), Pu N. Kipgen (SP Vigilance) and Pu Ibocha (SP Imphal West) have greatly contributed towards the KSO’s cause.
The crux of the present trouble that we are facing now started on 29th April 2007 when Mr. Isaac wrote to the president of KSO General Headquarters informing his desire to sell the whole plot of land while proposing to buy an alternative plot of land elsewhere. He cited financial crunch in the family as his reason to put the plot of land on sale. In view of this new development the KSO retorted to this plea and outrightly rejected the proposal by stating the fact that the KSO’s portion of land is non-negotiable. However, the KSO informed him that he was free or allowed to do whatever he desire with his portion of the land but simultaneously cautioned him not to touch even an inch of land that belongs to the KSO. The KSO then sprang into action on 17 August 2006 by notifying all concerned departments of its objection against mortgaging or sale of the KSO’s portion of the land. As a result, Mr. Isaac relented to the KSO’s cautionary words thereby giving his assurance that the KSO’s portion of the land shall remain intact.
After a moment of peace and calm the KSO was taken by surprise when one Mr. Romesh, who purchased Mr. Isaac’s plot, encroached upon the KSO’s portion of the land. When the KSO admonished and apprised him of the nature of the plot of land he stopped the encroachment and ceased all construction activities.
Consequent to this new development the KSO has come to learn that the plot of land has been resold to Mr. Bijoy Koijam who, after learning the nature of the dispute and its indisposition, eventually sold it to Shri Ningthem.
On 30th April 2012, executive members of the KSO General Headquarters inspected the plot of land and found out its portion of 100x30ft on the northern side the plot being encroached. On further inquiry it has come to our knowledge that the building is meant for a 5 Star hotel purportedly constructed by Shri Ningthem. The KSO sought an audience with Shri Ningthem for discussion but was denied the chance for any meeting. Nevertheless, the KSO provided mobile contact numbers to Shri Ningthem in the hope that he may contact the KSO for a formal discussion. As there was no intimation from him even then, the KSO dispatched a letter imploring him to halt all construction activities until the matter is mutually settled. But all acts of rapprochement on the part of KSO proved futile as the construction activities relentlessly continued in complete disregard of KSO’s peaceful gestures.
As the KSO did not want any ill feelings to develop between the organisation and Shri Ningthem it approached the hon’ble Chief Minister O. Ibobi Singh, who has complete knowledge of this particular land dispute case, in the hope that something tangible may come out to bring about an amicable solution. But when the efforts of the hon’ble CM seemed useless the KSO resolved to resort to any action it deemed fit to get back what rightfully belongs to the Kuki student community.
To conclude, it may be stated that Shri Ningthem had knowingly purchased the land, fully aware of its nature like everyone else before him. Therefore, the ball is in his court if he is prepared to make peace with the Kuki students.
By: Seiboi Haokip, Secretary Finance KSO General Headquarters
The KSO since its establishment had always felt the need for a suitable building to serve as its office in the state capital, Imphal. So it was the prerogative of the KSO to be in possession of an office building in Imphal when Mr. Isaac Thangjom donated a piece of land measuring 100x30 ft located at Kabo Leikai on 16th June 2000. The entire homestead land that is covered by C.S. Dag No. 692/693 under Patta No.601 (Old) measuring 0.50 acres was allotted by the Director of Settlement & Land Records, Manipur to Ms. Jolly Thangjom for the purpose of setting up of a school in 1974. Eventually Ms. Thangjom constructed and run a school named ‘The Good Shepherd School’. However, the school could not be run for long due to financial difficulties and poor health of the owner. Subsequently in 1989, the plot of land was mutated in the name of Paominlal Isaac Thangjom, the only son of Ms. Jolly Thangjom. Since then, the plot was in the name of Isaac Thangjom and all necessary government tax was levied on him.
The Thangjom family, in order to earn some income, rented out some of the rooms of the existing school building on 23 July 1995 to one Th. Ibobi and Thangjam Bimol Singh who set up stores. As time passed by, Th. Ibobi started scheming to grab the plot of land and filed a lawsuit on Mr. Thangjom. Th. Ibobi with the help of his brother in law, Mr. N. Meghachandra, who was the serving president of AISF (M), sought the help of the AISF who then claimed the plot of land as belong to AISF. On 17-11-98, about 20 members of the AISF forcibly dismantled the building rented out to one Nigombam Lukhoi as vehicular workshop and constructed AISF’s office in its place. In retaliation Mr. Lukhoi also filed a case against Th. Ibobi and AISF.
Mr. LS Thangjom was an IAS officer and a well wisher of the KSO during his lifetime. In his memory Mr. Isaac decided to donate a portion of the land measuring 100x30ft in the northern side for construction of KSO office. Therefore, on 16th June 2000, the plot of land was gifted to the president of KSO General Headquarters, Mr. Paokam Haokip who accepted on KSO’s behalf.
On 26-08-2002, the Civil Judge Senior Division –II court quashed all pending lawsuits over the plot of land and ruled in favour of the rightful owner, Mr. Isaac Thangjom. But Th. Ibobi, in collusion with the AISF continued to occupy the plot of land with the support and backing of some politicians, much to the chagrin of the KSO. Since the KSO also owned a part of the land it decided to take up the matter at the highest level. The KSO sought an audience with the Chief Minister and apprised him of the case and the hon’ble CM consoled the KSO that the matter shall be sorted out at the earliest. But, when nothing conclusive came to pass in 9 months time, the KSO decided to lay its office’s foundation stone and demanded of the government to clear out all encroachers from the premises within 3 December 2003. Then, on 27 December 2003, a flag hoisting ceremony was performed by the president of KSO General Headquarters. But in the evening of that day police O.C. Jyotin Singh intervened and unhoist the KSO flag terming the plot of land as disputed. The KSO then held a meeting with the CM and some of his council of ministers including the revenue minister Pu Biramani who acknowledged the plot of land as rightfully belongs to the KSO.
From 3 February 2004 volunteers of KSO constructed a makeshift camp and started occupying the plot. On 6 February 2004, the leaders of All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) in showing solidarity with the KSO came and inspected the office plot. The UCM also supported the stand of the KSO and sided with the KSO leaders.
On 3 February 2004 the AISF lead by its president N. Meghachandra intruded with force which led to a confrontation with the KSO and AMSU volunteers. With the support and help of the AMSU the KSO continued to occupy the plot of land.
On 5 June 2004, the KSO held a joint meeting with AMSU, UCM, ATSUM, ACTSOM, AMKIL, and KIM at Kuki Inn, Imphal and adopted a resolution and submitted a joint ultimatum to the Chief Minister for immediate settlement of the case in favour of its rightful owner, Mr. Isaac Thangjom and the KSO, failing which they decided to take up any form of agitation they deemed fit.
On 18 March 2005, the Secretariat: Revenue Department of the Govt. of Manipur issued an orders No. 21/115/72-R whereas the Governor of Manipur declared the claim of the AISF as null and viod abnitio, making the way clear for Mr. Isaac Thangjom and the KSO to occupy the plot.
On 11 December 2006, at about 8.30 a.m members of KSO including the executive members of KSO GHQ viz. P. Simte (President), Th Richard (Vice President), Thangminlen Haokip (General Secretary), Paotinthang Lupheng (Information Secretary) formally occupy the plot of land and erected temporary fencing around 100x50 ft. Within the compound they built a makeshift 2 room office with zinc roof provided by Pu Thangminlen Kipgen, the hon’ble MLA. Pu Ngamthang Haokip (Hon’ble Minister FCS), Pu N. Biren (Hon’ble MLA), Pu N. Kipgen (SP Vigilance) and Pu Ibocha (SP Imphal West) have greatly contributed towards the KSO’s cause.
The crux of the present trouble that we are facing now started on 29th April 2007 when Mr. Isaac wrote to the president of KSO General Headquarters informing his desire to sell the whole plot of land while proposing to buy an alternative plot of land elsewhere. He cited financial crunch in the family as his reason to put the plot of land on sale. In view of this new development the KSO retorted to this plea and outrightly rejected the proposal by stating the fact that the KSO’s portion of land is non-negotiable. However, the KSO informed him that he was free or allowed to do whatever he desire with his portion of the land but simultaneously cautioned him not to touch even an inch of land that belongs to the KSO. The KSO then sprang into action on 17 August 2006 by notifying all concerned departments of its objection against mortgaging or sale of the KSO’s portion of the land. As a result, Mr. Isaac relented to the KSO’s cautionary words thereby giving his assurance that the KSO’s portion of the land shall remain intact.
After a moment of peace and calm the KSO was taken by surprise when one Mr. Romesh, who purchased Mr. Isaac’s plot, encroached upon the KSO’s portion of the land. When the KSO admonished and apprised him of the nature of the plot of land he stopped the encroachment and ceased all construction activities.
Consequent to this new development the KSO has come to learn that the plot of land has been resold to Mr. Bijoy Koijam who, after learning the nature of the dispute and its indisposition, eventually sold it to Shri Ningthem.
On 30th April 2012, executive members of the KSO General Headquarters inspected the plot of land and found out its portion of 100x30ft on the northern side the plot being encroached. On further inquiry it has come to our knowledge that the building is meant for a 5 Star hotel purportedly constructed by Shri Ningthem. The KSO sought an audience with Shri Ningthem for discussion but was denied the chance for any meeting. Nevertheless, the KSO provided mobile contact numbers to Shri Ningthem in the hope that he may contact the KSO for a formal discussion. As there was no intimation from him even then, the KSO dispatched a letter imploring him to halt all construction activities until the matter is mutually settled. But all acts of rapprochement on the part of KSO proved futile as the construction activities relentlessly continued in complete disregard of KSO’s peaceful gestures.
As the KSO did not want any ill feelings to develop between the organisation and Shri Ningthem it approached the hon’ble Chief Minister O. Ibobi Singh, who has complete knowledge of this particular land dispute case, in the hope that something tangible may come out to bring about an amicable solution. But when the efforts of the hon’ble CM seemed useless the KSO resolved to resort to any action it deemed fit to get back what rightfully belongs to the Kuki student community.
To conclude, it may be stated that Shri Ningthem had knowingly purchased the land, fully aware of its nature like everyone else before him. Therefore, the ball is in his court if he is prepared to make peace with the Kuki students.
By: Seiboi Haokip, Secretary Finance KSO General Headquarters
As the sole guardian of academic interest in our society, Can KSO afford to choose entertainment activities over academic activities?
“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.” Charles Darwin
There wouldn’t be a better person than the one who is behind the theory of evolution and the concept of “survival of the Fittest” to understand the survival of any Living species today. Today, survival doesn’t meant mere existence, Even the constitution of India defines Right to Life as Right to life with dignity, mere Life without basic amenities or any freedom doesn’t come within the ambit of Right to Life.
In a democratic India today, each and every ethnic groups or community have their own aims and objectives, having a serious intention in the upliftment of their society. There can’t be a better example than North eastern states where various ethnic communities have their own hope and expectations. The Kuki society today finds itself in a quagmire of confusion and is characterised by mistrust, chaos and underdevelopment viz a viz other neighbouring society. What possibly could be the panacea of the destitution which we face today? Are we adapting to changes? Are we yet to understand the concept of innovations? Ask any one to who should be the one to bring the changes in the society and the response is almost universal – the student community, the youths.
It would be unfair though on the part of me to bring out a critical analysis of how the KSO in different cities functions. I had a very little opportunity to associate myself with our student body as an executive because of the lack of time for devotions to studies. I believe it’s not unfair to dedicate one’s time for studies and become a successful student for I believe the main objective of KSO will be to see through many successful Kuki students. I am also a firm believer of successful students leading the Organisation, for dedicating too much of one’s time to the organisation before the right time may post as a colossal hindrance towards one’s career. I believe the cabin crew in the airplane implies the same when she reminds you to put the oxygen mask yourself before helping others in case of insufficient Oxygen during the flight. Yes, an incapable or an unripe leader may not be as efficient as a leader who has first put the oxygen mask himself.
The question arises again, as to who will be involved in the management of the organisation if everyone has to dedicate themselves to studies alone? It is at this point of time, the concept of innovations comes into picture and the sole reason behind my article. If at all we feel that engaging ourselves in the activities of the organisation is a must even while we are mid- way to our own career, I believe there is every reason to explore the possibilities of innovating the activities of the student body and designing it in a way it is a part of our curricular activities. Did we ever try to brainstorm and explore what actually should be the activities of any student body?
Fresher’s social functions, sports meet etc. are still seasoned and favourite activities of our student body today, while social gatherings and meets promote friendships and brotherhood amongst us, we need to introspect again are we yet in a position to afford thousands of rupees in such activities where the main activities during such meets is competing in a Rock show where we turn the function into a concert and the amusing part there has to be a Mr. or Miss Fresher in every city. I personally enjoy Concert and cultural dance etc. but I believed there are many more important aspects where KSO have to focus.
Is it possible to turn such functions into some academic activities like debate, symposium, career counselling, Quiz Competitions, Research presentations or any other activities which will help the student community? Or can we divert the money spent in hiring state of the art Electric Guitar and sound systems to hiring some world class Lecturer from some top Management schools or any distinguished person in academic field to enrich our students. After all it is a Student’s Organisation and not an Entertainment organisation. Or is it possible to identify some potential students in need of finance to pursue higher studies and support them, I believed it will be a much better investment than investing in a fab auditorium and music or entertainment system. I believe it will not be an easy task but it will go along way in the upliftment of our society.
Some changes have already taken place in some of the cities and off late seminars and academic activities have been carried out and I believe it’s a big leap. Today with a very competitive ambience we can’t afford to practice what we practice 15 years back, it will be prudent on our part to explore means to mould the apex student body as a platform where we can adapt to the changing environment, more so when most of us cannot afford to go to Good college thus having very limited academic exposure, KSO can play a vital role in supplementing the much needed exposure.
Social gatherings and various entertainment activities are a part of our heritage which shows that we as a community are fun loving and social people. But when we lift up our eyes and look around we don’t stand a chance for survival if we are not innovative, we don’t have any political advantage, we are yet to place a demand for a state of our own. Today if at all we have an image in the eyes of our neighbours, it is because of the academic excellence some of our students has achieved. And there is every reason why we should project that image to yet a higher position.
| Samuel Singsit, to Bombiel.com |
“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.” Charles Darwin
There wouldn’t be a better person than the one who is behind the theory of evolution and the concept of “survival of the Fittest” to understand the survival of any Living species today. Today, survival doesn’t meant mere existence, Even the constitution of India defines Right to Life as Right to life with dignity, mere Life without basic amenities or any freedom doesn’t come within the ambit of Right to Life.
In a democratic India today, each and every ethnic groups or community have their own aims and objectives, having a serious intention in the upliftment of their society. There can’t be a better example than North eastern states where various ethnic communities have their own hope and expectations. The Kuki society today finds itself in a quagmire of confusion and is characterised by mistrust, chaos and underdevelopment viz a viz other neighbouring society. What possibly could be the panacea of the destitution which we face today? Are we adapting to changes? Are we yet to understand the concept of innovations? Ask any one to who should be the one to bring the changes in the society and the response is almost universal – the student community, the youths.
It would be unfair though on the part of me to bring out a critical analysis of how the KSO in different cities functions. I had a very little opportunity to associate myself with our student body as an executive because of the lack of time for devotions to studies. I believe it’s not unfair to dedicate one’s time for studies and become a successful student for I believe the main objective of KSO will be to see through many successful Kuki students. I am also a firm believer of successful students leading the Organisation, for dedicating too much of one’s time to the organisation before the right time may post as a colossal hindrance towards one’s career. I believe the cabin crew in the airplane implies the same when she reminds you to put the oxygen mask yourself before helping others in case of insufficient Oxygen during the flight. Yes, an incapable or an unripe leader may not be as efficient as a leader who has first put the oxygen mask himself.
The question arises again, as to who will be involved in the management of the organisation if everyone has to dedicate themselves to studies alone? It is at this point of time, the concept of innovations comes into picture and the sole reason behind my article. If at all we feel that engaging ourselves in the activities of the organisation is a must even while we are mid- way to our own career, I believe there is every reason to explore the possibilities of innovating the activities of the student body and designing it in a way it is a part of our curricular activities. Did we ever try to brainstorm and explore what actually should be the activities of any student body?
Fresher’s social functions, sports meet etc. are still seasoned and favourite activities of our student body today, while social gatherings and meets promote friendships and brotherhood amongst us, we need to introspect again are we yet in a position to afford thousands of rupees in such activities where the main activities during such meets is competing in a Rock show where we turn the function into a concert and the amusing part there has to be a Mr. or Miss Fresher in every city. I personally enjoy Concert and cultural dance etc. but I believed there are many more important aspects where KSO have to focus.
Is it possible to turn such functions into some academic activities like debate, symposium, career counselling, Quiz Competitions, Research presentations or any other activities which will help the student community? Or can we divert the money spent in hiring state of the art Electric Guitar and sound systems to hiring some world class Lecturer from some top Management schools or any distinguished person in academic field to enrich our students. After all it is a Student’s Organisation and not an Entertainment organisation. Or is it possible to identify some potential students in need of finance to pursue higher studies and support them, I believed it will be a much better investment than investing in a fab auditorium and music or entertainment system. I believe it will not be an easy task but it will go along way in the upliftment of our society.
Some changes have already taken place in some of the cities and off late seminars and academic activities have been carried out and I believe it’s a big leap. Today with a very competitive ambience we can’t afford to practice what we practice 15 years back, it will be prudent on our part to explore means to mould the apex student body as a platform where we can adapt to the changing environment, more so when most of us cannot afford to go to Good college thus having very limited academic exposure, KSO can play a vital role in supplementing the much needed exposure.
Social gatherings and various entertainment activities are a part of our heritage which shows that we as a community are fun loving and social people. But when we lift up our eyes and look around we don’t stand a chance for survival if we are not innovative, we don’t have any political advantage, we are yet to place a demand for a state of our own. Today if at all we have an image in the eyes of our neighbours, it is because of the academic excellence some of our students has achieved. And there is every reason why we should project that image to yet a higher position.
| Samuel Singsit, to Bombiel.com |
The uncalled-for 48 hrs bandh called by JCHDC over TET
The 48 hours bandh called from midnight of September 23 by the districts based student’s unions viz. Sanapati Districts Students Association (SDSA), Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) Ukhrul, Zeliarong Students Union Manipur (ZSUM) Tamenglong, Naga Students Union Chandel (NSUC) and Churachandpur District Students Union (CDSU) and opposed by KSO does not necessarily mean the Kuki Students Organization is against the decentralization of TET exam centres to district headquarters in the state rather, it was the premier student organization spearheading against the TET fiasco.
For your kind information, KSO General Headquarters from the beginning had discussed with its counterpart All Naga Students’ Association Manipur (ANSAM) as it felt deprivation of TET exam centres in the hill districts was not only the KSO’s concern however had equally affected the Nagas too. The ANSAM brothers had positively responded to the KSO’s call and assured that they will endorse and uphold the KSO’s demands and steps taken in connection with TET fiasco. However, said that they could not be in the picture as the current Naga political scenario of severing ties with the state government in pursuit of Alternative Arrangement for the Nagas of Manipur is still in effect.
With just a moral support and reluctant to let the state government notice that ANSAM agitates against TET (in doing so, it will have violated the declaration of Naga Peoples Convention i.e. severe ties with the state govt.) has made KSO desperate, yet seeing the sufferings of tribal people right in front of our nose gives us sleepless nights and felt that students organization has important roles to play and cannot remain as a silence spectators in this issue.
So, notwithstanding the discouraging stand of ANSAM, KSO had rather choose to spearhead against the injustice done to the tribal over the TET. In pursuit against the government irresponsible act of confining disbursement of TET forms and exam centres to Imphal only, the KSO GHQ on 14 September 2012 had submitted a memorandum to the Hon’ble Minister Education demanding: 1.To make available TET forms in all the district headquarters in the State as before; 2. To open TET examination Centres in all the district headquarters in the State; 3.To extend the last date of submission of form; 4. And to defer the date of examination as it collide with the date of SSC exam. Moreover it had also met the Secretary of BOSEM in person at his office airing the grievances of tribal TET aspiring candidates against the State narrow decision of ‘Imphal only’. Unfortunately, the feedback given by the Secretary paled the KSO leaders as he bluntly without any logical explanations said disbursing of TET forms and allotment of exam centres in all the districts headquarters is impossible.
Observing the Secretary’s statement, the KSO GHQ felt and believed that a peaceful means of submitting memorandum begging for justice will bear no fruits. Therefore, on 15 September 2012 a press conference was held at its Information Centre, Haokip Veng Imphal declaring its stand clear and bold against the government decisions of conducting TET examination by making public through media that if the authority concern do not reciprocate positively to the KSO’s memorandum on or before 18 September then, the Students’ organization will be compelled to imposed state wide 48 hours bandh starting from 5:00 am of 19 September.
While running from pillar to post preparing and forming strategies for the proposed 48 hours State wide bandh. On 18 September unexpectedly, we have received an invitation from the State government for discussion pertaining to our demands on TET at Hon’ble Education Minister’s office chamber at New Secretariat, Imphal.
The Minister’s office scenario; as we entered, we were delighted to see most of the hill MLAs waiting for us with the Hon’ble Education Minister. The presence of the hill MLAs gives us confidence and uncompromising spirit to our demands hoping that they will definitely uphold and supplement the woes of tribal. As the meeting begins, the President of KSO GHQ was made to placed its demands one more time for the record; and as we waited for the Hon’ble Minister to utter reply to the demands of KSO, out of nowhere to our surprise those MLAs of the tribal people representatives started giving negative comments one after another on the feasibility of hill district headquarters as TET exam centres. It seems the Education Minister had convinced them and brain washed them to persuade the KSO leaders to relinquish the demands and called off the proposed 48 hours bandh. One of the MLAs even said, “making the exam centre at hill districts will diminish the sanctity of TET” which is out rightly refuted and termed it as defaming the hill exam centres and do not expect such baseless comments from a tribal MLA that is hard to accept, rebuked the KSO leaders.
After prolong deliberation on exam centre the Hon’ble Education Minister interrupted and said we have agreed to most of your demands however, with regard to exam centres the government regrets that as of now due to some technical problems we are not in a position to fulfill this particular demand right away. To mention some of the difficulties, the TET question paper will be dispatched only on the day of examination and reached Imphal on the day itself via aircraft and staffs and invigilators also need special trainings to successfully conduct TET at all district headquarters. Therefore, it is risky to assure the possibility of holding TET exam in all district headquarters this time.
Indigestible with the Minister’s suggestion the KSO however, insisted that in spite of whatever the technical problem may be next time, the government of Manipur should provide a written assurance stating to hold TET exam in all district headquarters from the next TET exam. Else, KSO will not step down to our demands and will go ahead with the agitation unless concrete solution to our demands is made.
Eventually, on behalf of the Government of Manipur the Hon’ble Education Minister Shri M. Okendro has given written assurances in favor of the Tribal communities. 1. It was agreed to make available TET forms in all the district headquarters through concerned DC/ZEOs; 2. The demand for extension of the last date of submission of TET form was also accepted and forms would now be made available for a longer duration; 3. In view of the SSC examination falling on the same day as the TET Examination, it was decided that another convenient date will be fixed for holding the TET examination; 4. The proposal for opening of TET examination Centres was considered at length and the Hon’ble Minister of Education gave the assurance that the matter would be seriously looked into and all steps will be taken to hold the TET examinations in the district headquarters in the nearest possible future.
Taking into consideration the assurances made by the Education Minister in the presence and acknowledgement of some hill districts MLAs and in giving him some more time to implement his fourth assurance of holding TET exam in districts headquarters in the nearest possible time the KSO GHQ has called off its agitation.
Latest development and outcome from time to time are conveyed to ANSAM leaders as showing courtesy and solidarity over the TET issue and they have also acknowledged the KSO’s efforts. However, it is unfortunate that after an agreement with the state government, the federating units of ANSAM under the banner of Joint Committee of Hill Districts Students’ Organization (JCHDSO) came up with 48hrs bandh and propose indefinite economic blockade from 15 Oct which was later postponed and likely to begin from 18 Oct. As such, there’s an apprehension that, the recently concluded 48 hours bandh and proposed indefinite economic blockade called by Joint Committee of Hill District Students’ Organization (JCHDSO) synonymous with or can be termed as Naga districts students’ bodies has different agenda despite TET issue. The intention to attract the central government by calling bandh and blockade leaving behind or paying no heeds to the state government’s reasonable and acceptable request of holding TET exam in all district headquarters from next TET exam, is pretty obvious that it has something to do with their demand for Alternative Arrangement.
Disregarding the agreements inked between its General Headquarters and the State Government by the so called (JCHDSO) and imposing 48hrs bandh without their consent irked the district KSO branches of Churachandpur, Sadar Hills, Tamenglong, Chandel, Imphal and Ukhrul. Where an emergency meeting of the KSO branches resolved and issued a joint press statement on 22 September stating that Kuki students are utterly dismayed over the intention of the five hill district based Naga student bodies to impose a 48-hour general strike over the issue of TET examination even after Education Minister M Okendro himself had given assurance to open TET exam centres in all the district headquarters in all TET exams in future. The KSO has always made it a point to consult all the tribal student organizations wherever tribal issues are concerned. This gimmick of the five student bodies to call the bandh without KSO’s knowledge is opposed to tribal solidarity. KSO branches will not support the 48-hour bandh being called by JCHDSO and said that KSO branches unanimously endorsed the agreement reached between KSO general headquarters and the Education Minister on September 18.
The point is where these district student bodies are when KSO had been looking for allies to work in tandem against the indifferent attitude of the government towards tribal. Why after having reached a reasonable and acceptable agreement between KSO GHQ and state government was made? Therefore, the act of the so-called (JCHDSO) is an insult towards Kuki Students, and attempt made to nullify the KSO’s agreement with the state government over the TET is indeed a prestige question for the KSO. Had these district students’ bodies did what the KSO GHQ has done over the TET fiasco today, we will accolade them and adhere to their agreements considering it as a tribal interest however, it is unfortunate that they find it hard to accept that way.
By: Seiboi Haokip, Secretary Finance KSO General Headquarter
The 48 hours bandh called from midnight of September 23 by the districts based student’s unions viz. Sanapati Districts Students Association (SDSA), Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) Ukhrul, Zeliarong Students Union Manipur (ZSUM) Tamenglong, Naga Students Union Chandel (NSUC) and Churachandpur District Students Union (CDSU) and opposed by KSO does not necessarily mean the Kuki Students Organization is against the decentralization of TET exam centres to district headquarters in the state rather, it was the premier student organization spearheading against the TET fiasco.
For your kind information, KSO General Headquarters from the beginning had discussed with its counterpart All Naga Students’ Association Manipur (ANSAM) as it felt deprivation of TET exam centres in the hill districts was not only the KSO’s concern however had equally affected the Nagas too. The ANSAM brothers had positively responded to the KSO’s call and assured that they will endorse and uphold the KSO’s demands and steps taken in connection with TET fiasco. However, said that they could not be in the picture as the current Naga political scenario of severing ties with the state government in pursuit of Alternative Arrangement for the Nagas of Manipur is still in effect.
With just a moral support and reluctant to let the state government notice that ANSAM agitates against TET (in doing so, it will have violated the declaration of Naga Peoples Convention i.e. severe ties with the state govt.) has made KSO desperate, yet seeing the sufferings of tribal people right in front of our nose gives us sleepless nights and felt that students organization has important roles to play and cannot remain as a silence spectators in this issue.
So, notwithstanding the discouraging stand of ANSAM, KSO had rather choose to spearhead against the injustice done to the tribal over the TET. In pursuit against the government irresponsible act of confining disbursement of TET forms and exam centres to Imphal only, the KSO GHQ on 14 September 2012 had submitted a memorandum to the Hon’ble Minister Education demanding: 1.To make available TET forms in all the district headquarters in the State as before; 2. To open TET examination Centres in all the district headquarters in the State; 3.To extend the last date of submission of form; 4. And to defer the date of examination as it collide with the date of SSC exam. Moreover it had also met the Secretary of BOSEM in person at his office airing the grievances of tribal TET aspiring candidates against the State narrow decision of ‘Imphal only’. Unfortunately, the feedback given by the Secretary paled the KSO leaders as he bluntly without any logical explanations said disbursing of TET forms and allotment of exam centres in all the districts headquarters is impossible.
Observing the Secretary’s statement, the KSO GHQ felt and believed that a peaceful means of submitting memorandum begging for justice will bear no fruits. Therefore, on 15 September 2012 a press conference was held at its Information Centre, Haokip Veng Imphal declaring its stand clear and bold against the government decisions of conducting TET examination by making public through media that if the authority concern do not reciprocate positively to the KSO’s memorandum on or before 18 September then, the Students’ organization will be compelled to imposed state wide 48 hours bandh starting from 5:00 am of 19 September.
While running from pillar to post preparing and forming strategies for the proposed 48 hours State wide bandh. On 18 September unexpectedly, we have received an invitation from the State government for discussion pertaining to our demands on TET at Hon’ble Education Minister’s office chamber at New Secretariat, Imphal.
The Minister’s office scenario; as we entered, we were delighted to see most of the hill MLAs waiting for us with the Hon’ble Education Minister. The presence of the hill MLAs gives us confidence and uncompromising spirit to our demands hoping that they will definitely uphold and supplement the woes of tribal. As the meeting begins, the President of KSO GHQ was made to placed its demands one more time for the record; and as we waited for the Hon’ble Minister to utter reply to the demands of KSO, out of nowhere to our surprise those MLAs of the tribal people representatives started giving negative comments one after another on the feasibility of hill district headquarters as TET exam centres. It seems the Education Minister had convinced them and brain washed them to persuade the KSO leaders to relinquish the demands and called off the proposed 48 hours bandh. One of the MLAs even said, “making the exam centre at hill districts will diminish the sanctity of TET” which is out rightly refuted and termed it as defaming the hill exam centres and do not expect such baseless comments from a tribal MLA that is hard to accept, rebuked the KSO leaders.
After prolong deliberation on exam centre the Hon’ble Education Minister interrupted and said we have agreed to most of your demands however, with regard to exam centres the government regrets that as of now due to some technical problems we are not in a position to fulfill this particular demand right away. To mention some of the difficulties, the TET question paper will be dispatched only on the day of examination and reached Imphal on the day itself via aircraft and staffs and invigilators also need special trainings to successfully conduct TET at all district headquarters. Therefore, it is risky to assure the possibility of holding TET exam in all district headquarters this time.
Indigestible with the Minister’s suggestion the KSO however, insisted that in spite of whatever the technical problem may be next time, the government of Manipur should provide a written assurance stating to hold TET exam in all district headquarters from the next TET exam. Else, KSO will not step down to our demands and will go ahead with the agitation unless concrete solution to our demands is made.
Eventually, on behalf of the Government of Manipur the Hon’ble Education Minister Shri M. Okendro has given written assurances in favor of the Tribal communities. 1. It was agreed to make available TET forms in all the district headquarters through concerned DC/ZEOs; 2. The demand for extension of the last date of submission of TET form was also accepted and forms would now be made available for a longer duration; 3. In view of the SSC examination falling on the same day as the TET Examination, it was decided that another convenient date will be fixed for holding the TET examination; 4. The proposal for opening of TET examination Centres was considered at length and the Hon’ble Minister of Education gave the assurance that the matter would be seriously looked into and all steps will be taken to hold the TET examinations in the district headquarters in the nearest possible future.
Taking into consideration the assurances made by the Education Minister in the presence and acknowledgement of some hill districts MLAs and in giving him some more time to implement his fourth assurance of holding TET exam in districts headquarters in the nearest possible time the KSO GHQ has called off its agitation.
Latest development and outcome from time to time are conveyed to ANSAM leaders as showing courtesy and solidarity over the TET issue and they have also acknowledged the KSO’s efforts. However, it is unfortunate that after an agreement with the state government, the federating units of ANSAM under the banner of Joint Committee of Hill Districts Students’ Organization (JCHDSO) came up with 48hrs bandh and propose indefinite economic blockade from 15 Oct which was later postponed and likely to begin from 18 Oct. As such, there’s an apprehension that, the recently concluded 48 hours bandh and proposed indefinite economic blockade called by Joint Committee of Hill District Students’ Organization (JCHDSO) synonymous with or can be termed as Naga districts students’ bodies has different agenda despite TET issue. The intention to attract the central government by calling bandh and blockade leaving behind or paying no heeds to the state government’s reasonable and acceptable request of holding TET exam in all district headquarters from next TET exam, is pretty obvious that it has something to do with their demand for Alternative Arrangement.
Disregarding the agreements inked between its General Headquarters and the State Government by the so called (JCHDSO) and imposing 48hrs bandh without their consent irked the district KSO branches of Churachandpur, Sadar Hills, Tamenglong, Chandel, Imphal and Ukhrul. Where an emergency meeting of the KSO branches resolved and issued a joint press statement on 22 September stating that Kuki students are utterly dismayed over the intention of the five hill district based Naga student bodies to impose a 48-hour general strike over the issue of TET examination even after Education Minister M Okendro himself had given assurance to open TET exam centres in all the district headquarters in all TET exams in future. The KSO has always made it a point to consult all the tribal student organizations wherever tribal issues are concerned. This gimmick of the five student bodies to call the bandh without KSO’s knowledge is opposed to tribal solidarity. KSO branches will not support the 48-hour bandh being called by JCHDSO and said that KSO branches unanimously endorsed the agreement reached between KSO general headquarters and the Education Minister on September 18.
The point is where these district student bodies are when KSO had been looking for allies to work in tandem against the indifferent attitude of the government towards tribal. Why after having reached a reasonable and acceptable agreement between KSO GHQ and state government was made? Therefore, the act of the so-called (JCHDSO) is an insult towards Kuki Students, and attempt made to nullify the KSO’s agreement with the state government over the TET is indeed a prestige question for the KSO. Had these district students’ bodies did what the KSO GHQ has done over the TET fiasco today, we will accolade them and adhere to their agreements considering it as a tribal interest however, it is unfortunate that they find it hard to accept that way.
By: Seiboi Haokip, Secretary Finance KSO General Headquarter