Items filtered by date: Sunday, 23 August 2026

COCOCO Bars Census Officials in Eastern Keirao Areas

Imphal, August 23: The Co-ordinating Committee of Clubs and Organisations (COCOCO) has barred Census Enumerators and Supervisors from entering areas on the eastern side of Keirao Assembly Constituency. The organisation has also warned government employees residing in the area against participating in Census-related training or duties. Announcing the decision at a press meet in Langdum Maning Leikai, COCOCO President Samjetsabam Meghachandra said the restriction covers areas including Keirao Bitra, Langdum, Khanarok, Chanam Sandrok, Wangkhem, Thiyam Konjil, Phunal Maring, Uran Chiru and other villages. He said the move was intended to press for proper conduct of the Census amid the ongoing NRC demand.

Khurai Women Hold Sit-In for NRC Before Census

Imphal, August 23: Khurai Puthiba and Nandeibam Leikai Ima Lup organised a sit-in protest at Khurai Tharo Devi Ground today, demanding updation of the National Register of Citizens before the Census. Protesters displayed placards carrying slogans such as “No NRC, No Census” and “Save Manipur.” Participants expressed concern over alleged illegal settlement of outsiders and said NRC updation was essential to protect the interests of indigenous people. The protesters also extended support to the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation’s ongoing movement against conducting the Census before NRC updation. The demonstration adds to similar protests being held across Manipur.

Protest Held at Tentha Heibung

Thoubal, August 23: A protest demanding NRC updation before the Census was held at Tentha Heibung Community Hall in Thoubal district today. The demonstration was organised by the Lainingthou Sanamahi Laining Lup, Tentha Heibung. Former AMUCO President Ph. Nando Luwang, along with local elders and residents, attended the protest meeting. Participants reiterated concerns over the ongoing Census process and called for the National Register of Citizens to be updated before population enumeration is undertaken. The protest forms part of a wider statewide campaign by civil society groups and local organisations opposing the Census in the absence of NRC updation.

Kumbi Protesters Demand NRC Before Census

Bishnupur, August 23: A sit-in protest demanding NRC updation before the Census was held at Kumbi Bazar today. The demonstration was organised by the Kumbi Kendra Progressive Front led by social activist Shanjoy Ahanthem. JFD Finance Secretary Sunil Karam, Kumbi Kendra Progressive Farmers Association President Sanasam Dinesh, Meira Paibi members and local residents participated in the protest. Speakers reiterated the demand that the government should update the National Register of Citizens before proceeding with the Census. The demonstration is part of the continuing “No NRC, No Census” campaign being organised by civil society groups and residents in different parts of Manipur.

COCOMI Urges Government to Act on NRC Demand

Imphal, August 23: The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has urged the government to take seriously the ongoing public agitation demanding NRC updation before the Census. In a statement, COCOMI said the demands to conduct NRC first, resettle internally displaced persons in their native places and ensure free movement among communities should be considered and addressed within a reasonable timeframe. The organisation warned that the ongoing agitation should not be taken lightly. COCOMI also appealed to people across Manipur to continue the “No NRC, No Census” movement until the demands are addressed.

CPI Manipur Calls for Early Assembly Elections

Imphal, August 23: The Communist Party of India, Manipur observed its 79th foundation day at Irawat Bhawan in Imphal today. Speaking at the commemorative programme, CPI Manipur State Council Secretary Athokpam Nabachandra said the party would work to strengthen left, democratic, secular and progressive forces in the state ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. He called for the removal of the BJP from power and demanded early elections, alleging that the BJP-led government had failed to adequately address the welfare and development needs of Manipur. He said a fresh mandate would be in the interest of the state and its people. A Manipuri-translated book was also released.

Rally Opposes Non-Muslim Members in Waqf Board

Thoubal, August 23: A mass public rally was held at Sangaiyumpham today opposing the inclusion of two non-Muslim members in the recently constituted 8th Waqf Board of Manipur. The rally was organised by the United Development Committee and the Sangaiyumpham Rally Organising Committee under the banner of the Joint Committee Against the Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members in the Waqf Board. Committee Chairman Moulana Ataur Rahaman demanded that the government remove the two members, arguing that their inclusion could create division among communities. The rally began at Salam Macha, passed through Moirang Palli Bazar and concluded at Sangaiyumpham Idigah Maidan with a prayer service.

Protest Against Waqf Board Appointments in Phundrei

Thoubal, August 23: Residents and community organisations in Phundrei staged a protest rally today against the appointment of two non-Muslim members to the 8th Waqf Board of Manipur. The demonstration was organised by Anjuman Islahi Bashar Phundrei, Jamiatul Ulama Phundrei and Phundrei Village under the banner Joint Committee Against the Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members in the Waqf Board. Protesters raised slogans opposing the appointments and demanded that the government reconsider the composition of the Waqf Board. The demonstration follows similar protests held in other parts of Manipur over the inclusion of non-Muslim members in the board.

PLA Cadre Arrested in Thoubal

Thoubal, August 23: A combined team of Assam Rifles and Manipur Police has apprehended an active member of proscribed People’s Liberation Army, PLA. The self-styled Captain, identified as Thiyam Boycha alias Balin, was arrested from Ushoipokpi in Thoubal district yesterday. Security forces said questioning confirmed his identity as a PLA Captain wanted by the National Investigation Agency, which had announced a bounty of Rs 4 lakh for his capture. He is also allegedly a key accused in the November 13, 2021 Churachandpur ambush in which Colonel Viplav Tripathi, his family members and other personnel were killed. The accused was handed over to Lilong Police Station.

Bir Tikendrajit Statue Unveiled in Cachar

Cachar, August 23: Sekmai Assembly Constituency MLA Heikham Dingo unveiled a statue of Bir Tikendrajit at Rongpur in Assam’s Cachar district today. The statue was dedicated to the public at a ceremony jointly organised by the Manipuri Youth Front of Assam, United Peoples Front and Paona Club Rongpur-One. The event was attended by UCM President Y.K. Dhiren, social activist Nameirakpam Budhachandra, UPF President N. Rupachandra and Manipuris residing in Assam. Speaking at the event, MLA Dingo said the Manipur Government was aware of accommodation difficulties faced by people from Manipur visiting Silchar and was planning to construct a Manipuri Guest House there.

UNACCO School Inducts Chairman’s Club Members

Imphal, August 23: UNACCO School organised its Chairman’s Club 2026-27 induction programme at City Convention Centre, Palace Compound today. The school also felicitated Gurumayum Gopal Krishna Sharma, who secured Rank 9 in the Manipur Civil Service Examination 2022 conducted by the Manipur Public Service Commission. The Chairman’s Club comprises students who have excelled in academics, sports, arts and other extracurricular activities. UNACCO School Chairman Ningombam Irabanta said membership of the club is a prestigious achievement and noted that several former members have gone on to achieve success. The felicitation of Gopal Krishna Sharma was organised to inspire students through his journey and experiences.

Chinese Humanoid Robot Beats Bolt’s 100m Record

Beijing, August 23: A Chinese humanoid robot named “Lightning” reportedly ran the 100-metre sprint faster than Jamaican athletics legend Usain Bolt’s world-record time during the opening day of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing. Bolt set his 100-metre world record of 9.58 seconds in 2009. More than 2,000 humanoid robots are reportedly participating in the five-day event, which features 51 events and more than 1,000 competitions across running, football, table tennis and other disciplines. The games are showcasing China’s rapid advances in robotics technology. The event coincides with the 2026 World Robot Conference, where companies displayed thousands of robotics products.

Ningol Van Tree Plantation Held in Imphal East

Imphal, August 23: The Association of MSAP Alumni Manipur and the Central Forest Division organised the third Loushangkhong Ningol Van tree plantation programme at Loushangkhong Primary School and Loushangkhong Khong today. DFO Bishnupur Vikram Suresh Nadhe, local ward member Takhellambam Shyamjai, Professor Dr Th. Asha Sinha and other members participated in the plantation drive. Speaking during the programme, DFO Nadhe highlighted the important role women have traditionally played in Manipur’s social and community development. He also stressed the importance of women-led initiatives in environmental conservation. Organisers expressed hope that the Ningol Van initiative would continue to grow with community participation.

Two Detained With 114 Litres of DIC Liquor

Ukhrul, August 23: Ukhrul Police have detained two persons and seized 114 litres of DIC liquor as part of the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs and intoxicants. Police also seized a Maruti A-Star four-wheeler bearing registration number MN 06LX 6421 in connection with the operation. The detainees have been identified as 32-year-old Thuingam Vashum of Talui Village and 32-year-old Daniel Zimik of Maku Village. The operation forms part of continuing enforcement measures by police against the illegal transportation and distribution of liquor and other substances. Further legal proceedings are expected following completion of the investigation.

Pensioners’ Association Extends Financial Aid

Imphal, August 23: The Welfare Association of Pensioners of the Departments of Agriculture, Horticulture and Soil Conservation, CADA, Minor Irrigation and College of Agriculture, Manipur has extended financial assistance to two elderly members. The beneficiaries are 94-year-old Wahengbam Gouri of Hiyanglam Awang Leikai, a former Agriculture Officer, and 88-year-old Maibam Ibochouba of Lilong Chajing, a former Assistant Agriculture Officer. Association members visited the two pensioners at their residences and handed over the assistance to help meet medical expenses. Association Secretary Yumnam Shamungou said the organisation would continue supporting members facing financial difficulties, particularly those requiring assistance for healthcare.

Jhulan Festival Celebrated in Imphal

Imphal, August 23: The six-day Jhulan Festival began today with religious and cultural programmes at several locations in Manipur. Nata Sankritan School Sheidamkol observed the festival at Gurumayum Mandap in Haobam Marak Thingel Leikai. Students of the academy performed Jhulan Khela and presented devotional music as part of the celebrations. The traditional festival is observed by Hindu communities with devotional activities, music and rituals associated with the divine swing ceremony. The celebration will continue for six days, with devotees and cultural groups expected to participate in various religious programmes across the state.

Two Books Released at DIPR Auditorium

Imphal, August 23: Two books were released at a programme organised by the Fiction and Poetry Club Manipur at the DIPR Auditorium today. The books are “Khorirol gi Saklon,” a compilation authored by Professor Chirom Rajketan, and “Phaklang da Yekliba Lai,” a collection of children’s short stories by Sarat Salam. “Khorirol gi Saklon” comprises essays and articles, while “Phaklang da Yekliba Lai” contains 16 short stories for children. Both publications have been brought out in Bengali and Meitei Mayek scripts. The release programme brought together writers, literary enthusiasts and members of the cultural community.

‘Khaalashang Tal’ Workshop Concludes

Imphal, August 23: A five-day workshop-cum-production titled “Khaalashang Tal” concluded today at Moirang Kampu Sajeb Community Hall in Imphal East district. The programme was organised by the North Eastern Dance Drama Academy under the Chief Minister’s Artists Assistance Scheme. The valedictory function was attended by social worker Laitonjam Jayananda, NEDDA founder member Loukrakpam Ibomcha and Pung Guru Yumnam Khamba. As part of the closing programme, participants staged the workshop production “Khaalashang Tal.” The workshop aimed to promote traditional performing arts while providing artistes with an opportunity to learn, train and develop their skills through a structured production programme.

Sadar Hills Television and Cinema Foundation Holds First Meet

Kangpokpi, August 23: The Sadar Hills Television and Cinema Foundation held its first foundation meet at the Kuki-Zo Heritage Centre in Kangpokpi district headquarters today. The programme brought together members of the Kuki-Zo film industry, artistes and people interested in art and culture. Foundation members also met Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and discussed the organisation’s activities and upcoming projects. The Deputy Chief Minister assured the foundation of all possible assistance from the government. The foundation is expected to focus on promoting television, cinema and related creative activities while providing greater opportunities for artistes and professionals from the region.

Seminar Explores AI Emergency Connectivity in Manipuri

Guwahati, August 23: A two-day National Seminar on “AI-Enabled Emergency Connectivity in Manipuri Language” was held at the Assam Don Bosco University Azara Campus. The seminar was sponsored by AICTE-VAANI and focused on the potential use of artificial intelligence and language technology in emergency communication. University Vice-Chancellor Father Jose Palely and Pro Vice-Chancellor Father Joseph Nellannat guided the programme. Experts and academics, including Dr Kripaljyoti of the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, Dr Hidam Kumarjit Singh of Gauhati University, Dr Maibam Sanju Meetei of Rajiv Gandhi University and Dr Bijoy Goswami of Assam Engineering College, participated in the seminar.

Lanchenba Wins Second Gold at Junior National Aquatics

Bhubaneswar, August 23: Manipur swimmer Laitonjam Lanchenba clinched his second gold medal at the 52nd Junior National Aquatic Championship in Bhubaneswar. Lanchenba won the Men’s 100-metre Butterfly final with a timing of 54.98 seconds at Kalinga Stadium yesterday. Krishna Yadav of Uttar Pradesh secured silver in 57.11 seconds, while Somnarth Gowda of Karnataka took bronze in 57.73 seconds. The championship, organised under the Swimming Federation of India, concluded today after being held from August 18. Lanchenba had earlier won gold in the 200-metre Butterfly, setting a new national record with a timing of 2:03.73, and also secured silver in the 50-metre Butterfly.