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Showing posts from August, 2024

A Disturbing Disrespect: The Misuse of Patriots' Day in Manipur

Patriots' Day, celebrated annually on August 13 in Manipur at various places such as schools, societies, institutions, and clubs, is a solemn occasion to honor the sacrifices of those who bravely fought in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. This day, marking the execution of our revered heroes Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, serves as a reminder of the courage and determination that secured our state's dignity and freedom. It is a day meant for reflection, respect, and the honoring of our cultural heritage. From the time I can remember, people recited patriotic poems, sang songs, and performed dramas and cultural shows. Yet, this year, an event at Khuman Lampak Turf Ground took a disheartening turn. Instead of paying homage to our martyrs, the All Manipur Football Association (AMFA) organized a music concert that completely missed the mark. What should have been a respectful tribute to our fallen heroes instead became a display of disregard and inappropriate behavior. The conc...

The Harmful Connection Between Alcohol, Domestic Violence, and Family Breakdown

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In households where alcohol abuse is rampant, the consequences extend far beyond the individual struggling with addiction. One of the most severe outcomes is the increase in domestic violence, which contributes to the gradual breakdown of family structures. This deterioration impacts not only the emotional well-being of family members but also affects the family's financial stability, social status, and overall quality of life. Alcohol is a well-known factor in the escalation of domestic violence. The impaired judgment and lowered inhibitions that result from heavy drinking often lead to aggressive behavior, raising the risk of physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that a significant percentage of domestic violence incidents involve one or both partners being under the influence of alcohol. The Impact on Family Breakdown 1. Emotional and Psychological Harm: Continuous exposure to violence, especially in an alcohol-f...

Trading Farmlands for Weddings in Countryside Families

For many countryside families, life has long revolved around the ownership and cultivation of farmlands. These lands are more than just sources of food and income—they are vital assets that ensure the family's long-term security. However, a concerning pattern has emerged where parents, in their desire to provide a good education for their children, end up investing heavily, often at the expense of their farmlands. While education is undoubtedly important, this approach has led to a cycle of financial strain, leaving many families vulnerable. The Cycle of Financial Strain In a typical countryside household, parents work tirelessly on their farmlands or manage fish ponds to provide for their families. The income generated is usually spent on daily expenses and saving for their children's education. When the time comes, the children are sent to city colleges for higher studies, gradually depleting the family's savings. After graduation, these children are expected to either fi...

The Unseen Cost of Indulgence: A Lesson from our Highschool Teacher

A story that offers a profound lesson on financial prudence and the unseen costs of indulgence. This tale, narrated by Sir Lourembam Kullachandra, our history teacher at Bishnupur Public School, recounts his childhood encounter with Chanambam Ibomcha, the founder of the oldest college in Bishnupur, Chanambam Ibomcha College. As a young boy, Sir Lourembam Kullachandra once visited Chanambam Ibomcha's wholesale shop to buy sugar. When asked about its use, he innocently replied that it was for making tea. Instead of handing over the sugar, Ibomcha sternly refused and admonished the boy, forbidding him from returning to the shop for such purchases. The boy, confused and embarrassed, did not understand the reasoning behind this harsh response. Chanambam Ibomcha's refusal was not an act of unkindness, but rather a lesson in financial responsibility. He was well aware of the boy's family's financial situation—a hand-to-mouth existence where every rupee counted. Ibomcha knew th...

Akampat Relief Camp Inmates' Rally Halted by State Forces.

A planned protest rally by inmates of the Akampat relief camp, aimed at securing a resolution for their return to their respective homes, was abruptly halted by state forces before it could even begin. The inmates had strategically timed the rally to coincide with the monsoon session of the State Assembly, believing it to be an opportune moment as elected MLAs, were present in the Assembly Hall. The protest ended in violence, with 4 inmates from Moreh, along with one local Meira Paibi (women's activist), being hospitalized due to the confrontation. In a disturbing turn of events, a journalist from Impact TV was reportedly beaten by police officers, who also destroyed his phone and camera as he tried to cover the incident. The turmoil spilled over to the nearby Akampat Ideal High School, where police fired rounds of tear gas. The chaotic scene left schoolchildren crying in their classrooms, while teachers tried to calm them. Some teachers even confronted the police, questioning why ...