Items filtered by date: Sunday, 09 August 2026

Revised SoO Agreement Signed in New Delhi

New Delhi, August 9: The Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, Manipur Government and two Kuki-Zo insurgent groups, the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF), have signed a renewed and revised Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement in New Delhi. Officials said the revised agreement upholds Manipur’s territorial integrity and provides for political dialogue within the framework of the Constitution. The revised terms will remain effective for one year. Seven designated camps will be shifted away from sensitive areas, while the overall number of camps will be reduced. Cadres will also be required to deposit weapons with nearby CRPF or BSF camps.

CM Urges Vigilance Against Attempts to Divide Communities

Imphal, August 9: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has urged people to remain vigilant against attempts to create divisions among communities in Manipur. Addressing a Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra organised by BJP Singjamei Mandal, he said certain forces were working against peace and stability in the state. Khemchand highlighted Manipur’s historical legacy and recalled instances of different communities coming together to defend the land. He appealed to the Meitei community, as the majority community, to act as a “big brother” by respecting and supporting other communities. He said narrow community-based identities would not help Manipur progress and called for unity towards a developed Manipur.

Sharda Calls Har Ghar Tiranga a Symbol of Unity

Imphal, August 9: BJP Manipur Pradesh president and Rajya Sabha MP Adhikarimayum Sharda has described the ongoing Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra as a responsibility that citizens should undertake with pride and unity. Speaking at the Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra, she said the campaign reflected the spirit of national unity and commitment despite the prevailing situation in Manipur. Sharda stressed the need for stronger government efforts to safeguard the state’s integrity. She also expressed confidence in Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand’s leadership, saying he has the determination to bring different communities together and work towards restoring peace and harmony in the state.

Har Ghar Tiranga Programme Held in Andro

Imphal, August 9: BJP Andro Mandal, in association with the Development Organisation Andro Kendra, organised a Har Ghar Tiranga programme at Andro Assembly Constituency. The event was held at the residence of Andro MLA Thounaojam Shyamkumar at Ngariyan Chingkhong Angtha. MLA Shyamkumar hoisted the national flag, followed by a public procession. Speaking at the programme, he said the campaign commemorates India’s independence and honours the sacrifices of freedom fighters. Shyamkumar appealed to citizens to rise above differences based on caste, religion and community and strengthen the spirit of unity. BJP leaders and members of the Development Organisation Andro Kendra participated in the programme.

JFD Announces Census Boycott Until NRC Updation

Imphal, August 9: The Campaign for Just & Fair Delimitation (JFD) has announced a boycott of the Census in Manipur until the National Register of Citizens (NRC) is updated. JFD Convenor Jitendra Ningomba said the decision followed the government’s failure to give a firm assurance that the Census would be conducted only after NRC updation. He said the government’s August 6 deadline had passed without a decision, while a recent seminar recommended postponing the Census until NRC updation. JFD plans to begin a public protest from August 10 through August 16, with people gathering day and night at WALL Club in Wangkhei Angom Leikai.

High Court Orders Reinstatement of MTU Vice-Chancellor

Imphal, August 9: The High Court of Manipur has ordered the reinstatement of Dr Bhabeswar Tongbram as Vice-Chancellor of Manipur Technical University. In an order passed on August 5, the High Court directed that Dr Bhabeswar continue as Vice-Chancellor until November 7, 2026, or until he attains the age of 70, whichever is earlier. He was appointed to the post on November 8, 2021. His appointment was subsequently challenged before the High Court, leading to legal proceedings. The latest order allows Dr Bhabeswar to resume his duties as Vice-Chancellor of Manipur Technical University.

LIPUL Calls for Stronger Protection of Indigenous Communities

Imphal, August 9: The League of Indigenous Peoples’ Upliftment (LIPUL) has urged the Manipur Government to take stronger measures to protect indigenous communities and their identity. Speaking at a World Indigenous Peoples’ Day programme at JN Manipur Dance Academy Auditorium, LIPUL President Thokchom Somorendro said implementation of an NRC based on the 1951 baseline was necessary to safeguard the indigenous population. He attributed threats to divisions among ethnic communities, narrow community-based thinking and illegal migration. Somorendro also called for unity among indigenous communities while preserving their distinct identities. The programme was held under the theme “Unity and Diversity, Strengthening the Indigenous of Manipur.”

Congress Leader Dhiren Announces Andro Candidature

Imphal, August 9: PCC member Laithangbam Dhiren has announced his candidature for Andro Assembly Constituency in the upcoming 2027 Manipur Assembly elections. Speaking at Huikap Ningthou Laibung, Huikap Mayai Leikai, Dhiren said elected representatives should safeguard people’s interests and welfare rather than merely oversee distribution of essential commodities. He alleged that wealthy individuals sometimes enter politics using money and muscle power and later prioritise personal interests. Dhiren said education could help elected representatives better articulate people’s concerns, while stressing that leaders need not necessarily be highly educated. He appealed to voters not to sell their votes and instead make informed choices for genuine change.

Shyamkumar Rejects Allegations Against Moirangpurel CHC

Imphal, August 9: Andro MLA Thounaojam Shyamkumar has rejected allegations by PUYA regarding irregularities at Moirangpurel Community Health Centre, describing the claims as baseless and unfounded. Speaking to the media at his residence, Shyamkumar accused PUYA of allegedly targeting government employees and staff under the guise of social service and said a defamation case would be filed. He recalled efforts to develop the healthcare facility after his election in 2007, including government funding and local support. Shyamkumar said the centre still faces shortages but has continued providing services to people, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, and defended its staff against the allegations.

Security Forces Recover Arms in Imphal West

Imphal, August 9: Security forces recovered a cache of arms, ammunition and explosives during a search operation at Khoirum Sabal under Patsoi Police Station. A combined team of Imphal West Commandos, Patsoi Police and a column of 33 Assam Rifles conducted the operation. The recovered items included eight single-barrel guns, a 9mm pistol with magazine, an anti-riot gun, three No. 36 HE grenades without detonators, one WP grenade and six empty magazines of different weapons. Security personnel also recovered 86 assorted rounds of ammunition, six anti-riot shells and communication equipment. The operation formed part of continuing search and area-domination exercises in vulnerable peripheral areas.

Arms and Grenades Recovered in Imphal East

Imphal,, August 9: Security forces have recovered weapons and explosives during search operations at two locations in Imphal East district. At the foothills of Potshangba Khunou under Heingang Police Station, personnel recovered 20 hand grenades, one locally made barrel gun and a .32 pistol with magazine. In another operation at Khema Reserved Forest near the Forest Beat Office at Napet Palli under Lamlai Police Station, security forces recovered four 9mm pistols with magazines, two single-barrel guns, an improvised explosive device weighing more than four kilograms and 14 grenades. The operation also led to the recovery of 164 live rounds, 26 empty cases, two stun shells and a rubber bullet.

Kakching Groups Welcome Proposed NIT Manipur Campus

Kakching, August 9: The Joint Non-Government Voluntary Organisation (JNGVO) Kakching has welcomed Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand’s proposal to establish the permanent campus of NIT Manipur in Kakching Assembly Constituency. Speaking at a press conference, JNGVO president Kshetrimayum Chhattadari said the move could help place NIT Manipur among the leading NITs in the country. He said the existing campus site has limitations in terms of expansion and technical feasibility, while Kakching could provide greater scope for infrastructure development. The All Kakching Clubs Coordinating Committee has also welcomed the proposal, expressing support for establishing the institute’s permanent campus in the constituency.

Jiribam Indefinite Shutdown Lifted

Jiribam, August 9: The indefinite shutdown in Jiribam district has been lifted following concerns over the inconvenience caused to the public. Speaking to the media, JIMPAL Secretary General N. Kumari said the shutdown had added to the difficulties faced by people in the district. Various civil society organisations in Jiribam had called the shutdown demanding the release of a cadre of the Pambei-led UNLF-MPA who was arrested by Jiribam Police. The shutdown had disrupted normal activities in the district, affecting movement and daily life. The decision to lift the agitation was taken after organisations reviewed the difficulties being faced by the public due to the prolonged closure.

SAI Imphal Holds ‘Sundays on Cycle’ Event

Imphal, August 9: The Sports Authority of India, STC Imphal, organised its regular ‘Sundays on Cycle’ programme at Khuman Lampak under the theme “Nasha Mukt Bharat.” The cycling event was organised in association with the National Service Scheme and was flagged off by MY Bharat DYO Princi Gupta, who attended as Chief Guest. Around 100 participants took part, including SAI STC Imphal athletes and staff, as well as personnel from service providers NE Brother and Smart Security Service. The programme aimed to promote healthy lifestyles and encourage people to adopt cycling while supporting the message of a drug-free India and a cleaner, pollution-free environment.

Tree Plantation Drive Held in Porompat

Imphal, August 9: A tree plantation drive was organised at Star Sporting Club Ground, Porompat, as part of the “Ningol Van Tree Plantation Drive 1.5.” The programme was jointly organised by the Association of MSAP Alumni Manipur and the Central Forest Division. Speaking at the event, Central Forest Division DFO Vikram Suresh Nadhe stressed the importance of protecting Manipur’s diverse plant and bird species. He appealed to the public to safeguard wildlife and preserve trees, warning that destruction of flora and fauna could severely affect ecological balance. MLA Shiekh Noorul Hassan and other dignitaries, alumni representatives and local members attended the plantation programme.

Free Eye Camp Benefits Over 300 People

Bishnupur, August 9: The 12th edition of a free eye testing camp and spectacle distribution programme was held at Tronglaobi Junior High School under the initiative of former Moirang MLA Mairembam Prithviraj. More than 300 beneficiaries from Tronglaobi, Terakhongsangbi, Khudekpi and Leimaram under Terakhongsangbi Gram Panchayat availed free eye-care services. The camp included eye examinations and cataract screening, providing residents with access to basic eye-health facilities without cost. The initiative forms part of efforts to extend eye-care services to communities and identify people requiring further treatment. Beneficiaries from the surrounding villages participated in the camp and received medical attention and related assistance.

Creanza Tiles Opens First Manipur Showroom

Imphal, August 9: Creanza Tiles, operated by Commander Vitrified Private Limited, has opened its first showroom in Manipur at Khabam Lamkhai, Imphal East. The showroom, located within the Bahubali Marbles tile showroom, was inaugurated by Creanza Tiles Director Parth Patel. Speaking at the launch, Patel said the showroom offers more than 20 varieties of tiles in different designs, sizes and finishes. These include rustic, blue art, carving, roto, glossy, shape art and sugar finishes. The outlet also offers sanitary ware, granite, step tiles and other related products. The company said the new showroom is intended to provide customers in Manipur with a wider range of tile and allied products.

Tomchou Meetei Wins Gold at Asian Junior Weightlifting

Tashkent, August 9: Manipur’s Nameirakpam Tomchou Meetei has won the gold medal in the 60-kilogram category at the Junior Asian Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Competing under the Asian Weightlifting Federation, Tomchou lifted 116 kilograms in the snatch and 150 kilograms in the clean and jerk for a combined total of 266 kilograms. India’s Gurunaidu Sanapathi claimed silver with 265 kilograms, while the Philippines’ Prince Keil secured bronze with 264 kilograms. Tomchou, the son of Nameirakpam Amuba and Nameirakpam Ibemu, hails from Ngairangbam under Konthoujam Assembly Constituency in Imphal West. His victory has brought another international sporting achievement to Manipur.

Manipur Karate Players Win Five Medals in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, August 9: Manipur karate players have won two gold and three bronze medals at the 2nd South Asian Open International Karate Championship 2026 in Kathmandu, Nepal. Korounganba Khaidem secured gold in the 55-kilogram Sub-Junior Boys Kumite, while Chingakham Dumbraj won gold in the Cadet 57-kilogram Boys Kumite. The three bronze medals were claimed by Sanasam Yaiphaba Singh in Cadet 63-kilogram Boys Kumite, Yaiphaba Thokchom in the 30-kilogram Sub-Junior Boys Kumite and Laishram Maninganba in Cadet 52-kilogram Boys Kumite. The championship was held at Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu on August 7 and 8, bringing together karate athletes in the regional international competition.