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06/25/2005: "Crude bomb explosions in Kohima - No casualties in blasts"

Crude bomb explosions in Kohima - No casualties in blasts OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, June 24: Two simultaneous crude bomb blasts rocked the Nagaland capital last night. No one was injured. At the stroke of 9 pm, an explosion rocked the Upper Agricultural Colony, followed seconds later by another blast in AG Colony. Both blasts occurred close to uninhabited houses. The police also recovered an unexploded crude bomb from the A.G. Colony area after the blasts. No rebel group has claimed responsibility for the explosions so far. The house in Agri Colony belonged to one Dr Shaiza while the other belonged to K.I. Ao. The first blast occurred just metres away from the private residence of the leader of the Opposition, I. Imkong. The other bomb exploded near a house that a tenant was scheduled to occupy today.
“At first, we were shocked. But later we realised that there was no injury,” said an eyewitness, a labourer working in Agri Colony. A group of labourers was resting close to the spot. Senior police officers rushed to the sites and took stock of the situation. Police said the blasts in Agri Colony were triggered with gelatine sticks concealed in a four-wheeler shock absorber.
“This appears to be the handiwork of some individuals who are trying to scare people. There is no particular motive of inflicting casualties,” said director-general of police J. Changkija. Last year, there was a blast at the residence of minister Imkong Imchen. Some miscreants had hurled a grenade inside the courtyard of his house. No one was injured in the incident. Sources said yesterday’s incidents should be taken seriously as the people’s attention is riveted on the progress of peace talks in New Delhi between the Centre and NSCN (I-M) and the explosions assume significance at this juncture.
Tension in Tobu Kuknalim.com
The conflict in Nagaland’s Tobu area once again turned ugly after a police havildar was killed in a landmine blast earlier this week. Senior police officers, including the DGP, visited the spot yesterday. Nine companies of Nagaland armed police have been deployed to prevent any untoward incident. Changkija said the mines were planted a few years ago and there have been four landmine blasts in the past two years. Last year, a police constable lost a leg in a blast. The Konyak and Chang tribes have been fighting for control of Tobu since 1986, resulting in several casualties. The Tuensang Mon People’s Organisation held an emergency meeting in Kohima last afternoon. More than 700 members gathered to discuss the resolution of the Tobu conflict. Sources said the Konyak Union as well as the Chang Khulei Setsang have asked their respective units to maintain peace.
Centre reviews Naga peace process. Muivah happy with response of Indian Govt Kuknalim.com
NEW DELHI, June 24: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) today reviewed the Naga peace process and the law and order situation in the North-East. Briefing newsmen, Defence Minister, Pranab Mukherjee said that the meeting of the CCS today reviewed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and North-East. Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, heads the CCS and meeting today was attended by Union Home Minister, Shivraj Patil, Defence Minister and Union Finance Minister, P Chidambaram. According to sources, the CCS meeting while reviewing the Naga peace process explored the various options available to the Centre to break the logjam. The Centre, however, is keeping its cards close its chest and keeping its future plans under wraps. Sources further added that the CCS meeting took stock of the inter-State boundary dispute involving Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh. The tension along Assam-Meghalaya border in Karbi Anglong district and subsequent developments in the neighbouring State led the CCS to review the situation.
The CCS also discussed about the escalating tension in Manipur following the killing of yet another youth by the Assam Rifles recently. The Centre is keeping a close eye on the developments in the State least it flares up all-over again, sources said. Meanwhile, all-powerful general secretary of the NSCN (I-M), Th.Muivah has toned down his vitriolic against the Government of India and denied news reports that he was fed up with the manner in which negotiations were going on.

Muivah, who is leaving for Amsterdam on July 4, told a news portal that negotiations between NSCN and the Government of India were now progressing satisfactorily. “ I never said that I would go back. I am happy with the manner in which the government is responding to our position. They are now seeing things from our point of view,” he claimed. “I am not getting restive of the prolonged negotiations. I understand that such things do take time. If things progress on positive note then I would come back to continue negotiations after some break,” he said. He admitted that the Pakistan ISI has had played some role in the Nagaland insurgency but claimed that it may not be as significant as is being made out by the Indian Government

Patience sermon to Muivah BHARAT BHUSHAN The Telegraph
New Delhi, June 24: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had separate one-to-one meetings with Thuingaleng Muivah, leader of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah), urging him to be patient with the Naga peace talks. They also impressed upon the general secretary of the NSCN (I-M) the determination of the government to solve the Naga issue in a peaceful manner and told him that nothing should be done in a manner that might lead to the creation of new problems in the Northeast. Muivah has given a series of media interviews, claiming that the government does not seem prepared to settle the Naga issue. Although he has not said goodbye to the peace process, he is planning to leave for Amsterdam. This would leave no option but to hold talks for extending the ceasefire, which is coming to an end on July 31, outside India. His subsequent return to India hinges on how New Delhi moves on the proposals submitted by the NSCN (I-M). It is in this context that the UPA leadership does not want the Nagas to walk away from the peace process irrevocably or have second thoughts about extending the ceasefire. Persuasion and dialogue with the neighbouring states of Nagaland — where the NSCN (I-M) claims some of the traditional Naga homelands lie — was the mantra repeated both by Singh and Sonia. “Don’t think that we do not take the Naga issue seriously. We must resolve the issue through peaceful means, and for that we must all have patience. The issue must be resolved through understanding with Nagaland’s neighbours,” Sonia is believed to have told Muivah.
Muivah’s meeting with her late in the evening followed a similar discussion with the Prime Minister a few hours earlier. After a short one-to-one meeting between Sonia and Muivah, the duo was joined by Oscar Fernandes, who is leading a team of three ministers in the dialogue with the NSCN (I-M). The Prime Minister is believed to have told Muivah that he would not “waver” from the path of peace. “I am sincerely telling you that I am committed to finding a solution through peaceful means. I will not waver. I am serious and determined to solve the Naga issue.” Singh appreciated the patience shown by the Nagas over the years and during the peace talks. However, he impressed upon Muivah the need to recognise that solving one issue (the Naga issue) must not lead to the creation of other problems (with the neighbouring states). Muivah apparently recounted the specificity of Naga history to the Prime Minister and listed the steps taken by the Nagas over time to come closer to India. From talking of independence and separation, the NSCN (I-M) today is seeking to negotiate a new federal relationship with New Delhi that would bind the two sides inseparably. “We have appreciated the difficulties of the Indian government and addressed them as best as we could. Beyond this we can do little,” Muivah is believed to have told the Prime Minister. Briefing his colleagues late at night, Muivah told them that he was convinced that the Prime Minister’s commitment to the Naga peace process was “very firm”.
Naga students call for revocation of State Integrity Day NET News Network
Guwahati, June 24:The All Naga Students Association (ANSA), Manipur, reacting to the Manipur government’s declaration of June 18 as the ‘State Integrity Day’, termed the act as highly irresponsible and an attempt on the part of the government to distort the facts and asked for its revocation.
Terming the day of 18th June, 2001 as an epitome of violence and unruly demonstration, Paul Langhu, president of ANSA said, “It will be matter of shame if the day is celebrated as a State holiday because that day reminds us of a tragic incident carried on for the vested interest of few people and government has misinterpreted the affair completely”.
I on the behalf of ANSA urge the concern people to extend their support in restoring the democratic right of the people and also in the revocation of the Manipur State government’s declaration of ‘State Integrity day’, appealed Paul Langhu, while briefing the media in the city. He went on to criticize the Manipur government, for its security lapses as it failed to provide security to the Member of Parliament, Manicharenamei, who is said to be provided the Z category security. It can be mentioned here that, yesterday, a live grenade was planted in the house of the MP, which was followed by some continuous pelting of stones to his house in the wee hours.
Consultative Committee congratulates Naga MP’s, MLA’s NET News Network North East Tribune
Kohima, June 25: The Nagaland Consultative Committee on Peace headed by state Chief Minister N Rio on Saturday congratulated the Naga MP’s and MLA’s of Manipur for submitting memorandum to Prime Minister on May 27 last demanding integration of all Naga dominated areas to one administrative area. The committee consisting of 29 members in its meeting held today also adopted resolutions including equi-closeness policy, which empowers it to maintain close understanding with various underground outfits to find amicable solution to Naga-Indo conflict. The meeting also urged the central government to extend the ceasefire with the NSCN (IM) for another year. The ongoing ceasefire comes to an end on July 31 next.
Meanwhile, the committee also condemned the twin blasts occurred almost simultaneously on Thursday night in two residential colonies in the state capital Kohima. It may be recalled that the first explosion occurred at around 9 pm at upper Agricolony on a uncompleted private building, which not very far from the private residence of Leader of Opposition I Imkong. The second blast took place at around 9.01 pm in a residential a compound at lower A G Colony. It occurred inside the residential compound of a Deputy Director of Horticulture department.
Naga peace committee reconstituted OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, June 23: In what appeared to be another attempt at showcasing the Nagaland government’s efforts to usher in permanent peace, chief minister Neiphiu Rio today announced the “reconstitution” of the consultative committee for peace. The new 29-member committee comprises 10 of the 12 ministers of the cabinet, including Rio. Besides the ministers, the committee includes members of both Houses of Parliament and also senior members from the coalition partners of the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland. Former chief minister Vizol and BJP legislator and former chief minister Hokishe Sema are part of the committee. Others include Chubala Ao and C.M. Chang of the Nagaland People’s Front. The committee was first formed soon after the Rio government came to power in March 2003. It then held regular meetings and claimed that it was speaking to all rebel factions and trying to bring about reconciliation. With the peace talks between the Centre and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) now in choppy waters, observers say the committee has a chance to prove itself.
A meeting of the committee will be held on Saturday morning at Rio’s residential office. This year, the committee held a couple of meetings and resolved to support the peace process and asked the NSCN factions to stop fighting. The NSCN (I-M) is huddled in meetings on the future of the peace process even as general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah has decided to return to Amsterdam. He is slated to leave Delhi tomorrow. Muivah has blamed the Centre for not being serious iand said the talks have reached a “stalemate”. He, however, that the outfit still believes “there is no military solution to the Naga problem”.
NSCN (K) warning shot at Manipur MP NET News Network
Imphal, June 24: A Chinese made hand grenade was lobbed at the residence of Outer Manipur MP, Mani Charennamei located at Chingemirong Dinku road on Friday. However the grenade failed to explode.
Later NSCN (K) Zeliangrong region claiming responsibility for the attack said it was not aimed against the MP but done, as he was involved in formulating the policies and programmes of the NSCN (IM) groups. Police later retrieved the grenade and kept at Lamphel police station.
The NSCN (K) speaking to the press accused Charenamei of working against the NSCN (K) in collusion with IM group. During his election time, Charenamei was supported by IM group but past is past and the NSCN (K) has forgiven him, the outfit added. However the outfit had carried out the attack as he was working hand in gloves and being representatives of Muivak and Swu. Instead of working for the welfare of the Zeliangrong people, he was encouraging divide and rule policy of the NSCN(IM).
The spokesman further said as his identity is exposed, the NSCN (K) would take up action against him in the same line taken against the NSCN (IM) group. The group also clarified that attack on Charenamei does not violate the cease-fire between GoI and the NSCN (K) as the attack was against a functionary of the NSCN (IM) and not against a representative of Indian Government. The attack is a first warning and in course of the attack, any casualty suffered to the MP escort should be taken as collateral damages and not an attack on GoI.
Talks face hiccups: Rio Our Staff Correspondent
SHILLONG, June 24: Admitting that the ongoing dialogue between the NSCN (IM) and the Centre is facing hiccups, Nagaland Chief Minister Nephiu Rio has called for a collective endeavour to address the ‘differences’ in order to solve the decades-long ‘Naga issue’. Talking to The Sentinel, Rio said that the Centre should give a sincere commitment to ensure that the peace process does not breakdown. He added: "The Nagas are aspiring for peace and a resolution in line with the Nagas’ wish should get respect".
Amidst reports that the NSCN (IM) leaders may pack their bags and leave for Amsterdam in the wake of the reported differences, Rio candidly admitted that the Government of India had certain reservations to the demands of the NSCN-IM leadership. He, however, refused to divulge the ‘hurdles’ of the ongoing peace process." Even the Nagaland Assembly has passed resolution after resolution to bring all the Nagas under one political and administrative unit," he said. Asked, if he would communicate with the States having Naga population, the Chief Minister said, "We are talking to them. They should also know that if the Nagas are willing to come under one unit, they (States) should not prevent them."
Over 100 trucks stranded at Manipur-Nagaland border The Hindu
Imphal, June. 25 (PTI): Over 100 Manipur-bound trucks loaded with essential items have been stranded at Mao gate on the Manipur-Nagaland border along Imphal-Guwahati NH 39 due to an indefinite 'economic blockade' launched by a students' body, official sources said today. Forces would soon be sent to Mao, about 70 km. north of here, to bring the stranded vehicles here, the sources said.
The All-Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM) had launched the blockade five days ago in protest against the state government's order declaring June 18 every year as general holiday to observe 'integrity day.' ANSAM had said earlier that the government order was against the plan for unification of Nagas.
Centre releases Rs 22 cr for Nagaland Business Line
KOHIMA: An amount of Rs 22.16 crore has been released for Nagaland by the Union ministry of Rural Development under its Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP), official sources said on Saturday. The assistance was provided through Rajiv Gandhi National Drinking Water Mission and Sampoorna Grameen Rozgar Yojana (SGRY). As per the guidelines for implementation of rural water supply programme, 15 per cent of funds under Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP) is meant for quality related problem and five per cent for taking sustainability measures under submissi on, the release said.
The first instalment of Rs 13.18 crore was released for execution of schemes to provide safe drinking water facilities to rural habitations and schools.
Under SGRY, the Centre released grants-in-aid amounting to Rs 8.98 crore as first instalment being equal to 44 per cent of total allocation to eight Nagaland districts in the current financial year, the release said. Besides, the ministry has approved release of 7,155 tonne of wheat and equal amount of rice as first instalment of food grains to eight districts of Nagaland under SGRY, it added. - PTI
Centre reviews Naga peace process From Our Staff Correspondent Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, June 24 – The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) today reviewed the Naga peace process and the law and order situation in the North-East. Briefing newsmen, Defence Minister, Pranab Mukherjee said that the meeting of the CCS today reviewed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and North-East. Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, heads the CCS and meeting today was attended by Union Home Minister, Shivraj Patil, Defence Minister and Union Finance Minister, P Chidambaram. According to sources, the CCS meeting while reviewing the Naga peace process explored the various options available to the Centre to break the logjam. The Centre, however, is keeping its cards close its chest and keeping its future plans under wraps.

Sources further added that the CCS meeting took stock of the inter-State boundary dispute involving Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh. The tension along Assam-Meghalaya border in Karbi Anglong district and subsequent developments in the neighbouring State led the CCS to review the situation. The CCS also discussed about the escalating tension in Manipur following the killing of yet another youth by the Assam Rifles recently. The Centre is keeping a close eye on the developments in the State least it flares up all-over again, sources said. Meanwhile, all-powerful general secretary of the NSCN (I-M), Th.Muivah has toned down his vitriolic against the Government of India and denied news reports that he was fed up with the manner in which negotiations were going on. Muivah, who is leaving for Amsterdam on July 4, told a news portal that negotiations between NSCN and the Government of India were now progressing satisfactorily. “ I never said that I would go back. I am happy with the manner in which the government is responding to our position. They are now seeing things from our point of view,” he claimed.

“I am not getting restive of the prolonged negotiations. I understand that such things do take time. If things progress on positive note then I would come back to continue negotiations after some break,” he said. He admitted that the Pakistan ISI has had played some role in the Nagaland insurgency but claimed that it may not be as significant as is being made out by the Indian Government.
X-Files: The Great Naga Uprising By: Yambem Laba Commentary/opinion Kangla on line
It took four years in the making. The anti-thesis to the 18th June 2001 Great Uprising thesis finally came on 16th June 2005 and it had the blessing ironically of the SPF Government of Shri Ibobi Singhji. Firstly he provoked the Nagas into calling a rally on the 16th June by declaring the 18th June as State Holiday. He then took a step further by challenging the United Naga Council by announcing to the media his Cabinet's decision to ban the said rally. Accordingly instructions were issued to the various district administrations to carry out the Government's decision.
That his district administrations decided not to follow heed to the directions that had been issued from Imphal must have been made very clear by 6.30 pm when the daily news briefing of the SP (CID) to the Chief Minister takes place. It would make interesting reading to ponder over the various reports the district administrations must have submitted to the Chief Secretary over the events of the 16th June. Did it read something like "Sir, Contrary to the directions received from you, the rally calling for unification of Naga areas of Manipur into Nagaland, was a huge success even as the security forces deployed made no attempt whatsoever to stop the rallyists ... from coming and handing over a memorandum to me (the Deputy Commissioner) which I am herewith enclosing for onward transmission to the Prime Minister of India .... for his kind notice etc etc.
For the first time in his chequered career as a bureaucrat, Shri Jarnail Singh must have been at a loss as to whether to seek an explanation call or to commend his Deputy Commissioners for a job not done or well done. But whatever may be said about Shri Ibobi Singhi having to eat his words over the failure of his district administrations to carry out his Government's instructions and his inability to initiate action against the officials for dereliction of duties, the fact remains that the Nagas came out in vast numbers in all the four districts to openly march defying a governmental ban and inclement weather to openly shout for Naga Integration or unification, which will remain as the day of the great Naga uprising. The placards also spoke of freeing from their shyness to blame the Meiteis openly for standing in the way of the Naga unification talks. A placard in Chandel which read "Naga integration does not mean Meitei disintegration" spoke volumes behind the assertion. It strikes at the very roots of the concept of 2000 years of shared history of Manipur.

But the great Naga uprising of the 16th June had the blessings of the Naga legislators and members of Parliaments of Manipur. How else can one explain, the timing of the Memorandum submitted to the Prime Minister dated 27th May 2005, following the famous dinner diplomacy hosted by the NSCN(IM) Supremo Thuingalen Muivah at the India International Centre in New Delhi. The report is that Shri Rishang Keishing, Manipur's Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament was the first to sign the memorandum, followed by the MP from Outer Manipur Shri Mani Charanamei, followed by Ibobiji's most trusted lieutenant Power Minister Gaikhangam and Shri Francis Ngajokpa with Henry Paotei at No.10.’ That the memorandum openly stated that "We therefore, fully support the aspiration of the Naga-people for integration", adding in the later paragraphs that the integrations of Nagas into a single administrative unit is a fundamental right of the Nagas. This statement must be read alongside the banner which the 16th June rallyist carried in Senapati which read "Unification of Naga Homeland is our Birth Right". The involvement of Rishang Keishing has atleast shown in his true colours the man who as Chief Minister of Manipur in 1997 took pains to explain to the people through Assembly Resolutions and arranging an All party delegation to New Delhi to reconfirm his own personal stand besides that of the Government of India's to stand by the territorial integrity of Manipur.

Mani Charanamei's stand and stance has been clear ever since he filed his nomination papers for the Lok Sabha elections. He atleast does not fight shy of his allegiance to the forces that prompted his elections as an independent candidate and had been vocal over his views towards the Naga-integration issue. Recently he had addressed a group of Naga students in New Delhi, reteirating his stand and called for an early unification. But what has come as a suprise is the inclusion in the numero uno spot amongst the State legislators of the 'Chingee Chandramani" or Gaikhangnam. The question is did he take his mentor Shri Ibobi Singhji into confidence over what he did. Further his trip to Delhi must have been on an official visit meaning that the people of Manipur must have paid for his tickets - the same goes for Francis Ngajokpa. So when the Lagislators joined the House in passing the resolution to protect Manipur's Territorial integrity - did they do so like how Muivah answered the question on the BBC Programme as to whether it is true he travels on an India Passport - to which he replied "Yes"- but he added he carries it with a condition.
House again resolves to protect Manipur The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Jun 23: The Manipur Legislative Assembly today adopted, for what is the seventh time, a resolution affirming its commitment to protect Manipur’s territorial integrity. Coming against the backdrop of the controversy over some state MLAs and MPs having signed a resolution endorsing the creation of Greater Nagaland, the state Assembly adopted the resolution on the first day of the Monsoon session today following an adjournment motion sponsored by three Ruling and four Opposition MLAs. The House reaffirmed the earlier resolutions already adopted on this issue, and pledged to oppose any move to destroy the territorial integrity of the state. It also reposed faith in the fraternal coexistence of all communities in the state.

Naga legislators were conspicuous by their non-participation in the discussions.
Opposition MLA Dr. Nimaichand Luwang, participating in the discussions on the adjournment motion, expressed strong confidence that the disintegration of Manipur would never take place, stating that there is no lack of will on the part of the people to preserve the state intact. In this connection, Dr. Luwang maintained that the recent rallies taken out in four hill districts in support of Naga unification were organised only under the pressure of an unlawful organisation and certain unwanted elements.

While terming the reports that some MLAs and MPs of the state had signed a memorandum endorsing Greater Nagaland as unfortunate, Dr Luwang speculated that the MLAs and MPs in question may have signed the memorandum under threat, and urged that the Assembly to reaffirm its stance on the issue.

His MPP colleague, O Joy Singh reiterated that it was the duty of every section residing in Manipur to protect Manipur’s territorial integrity and it would be unfair to leave it to the MLAs alone. O Joy went on to say that if the reports that some MLAs had signed the memorandum endorsing greater Nagaland were true, such an act should be condemned. He urged the concerned NGOs and MLAs to stop trying to drive a wedge among the communities. Stressing the need for the House to reaffirm the earlier resolutions for preservation of Manipur’s territory, O Joy said it being a democratic polity, the Central government must respect the resolutions adopted by the state Assembly in this connection.

Opposition leader, RK Dorendra, participating in the discussion, reminded the House of the assertion by then Prime Minister AB Vajpayee in Kohima against disturbing the territorial boundaries of the north-eastern states in the course of the Naga peace process. However, as the peace process is irreversible, a solution acceptable to all sections need to be worked out, Dorendra said. He also favoured initiation of peace talks with the underground groups operating in the Manipur valley. FPM MLA, L Ibomcha maintained it would be wrong to condemn the concerned MLAs out of hand without confirming the truth of the reports of their having signed the offending memorandum. If necessary, confirmation should be done by obtaining a copy of the said memorandum from the Prime Minister’s Office. In the meantime, addressing the House, state chief minister O Ibobi Singh, reiterated that there was no question of compromising on the state’s territorial integrity. Asserting that this was the sentiment of the overwhelming majority of the people of the state, the CM pointed out that people of Jessami, on the border with Nagaland, have time and again reiterated their opposition to any merger of their land with the neighbouring state. The people of Manipur have lived and will continue to live together in harmonious coexistence, he maintained. At the same time, the chief minister stressed the need to stop provocative activities on the part of various NGOs on the issue. He also expressed consternation over the free hand being taken by various mushrooming NGOs on the affairs of the state.

MLAs Thangso Baite, K Ranjit, N Biren, I Hemochandra, S Ibohal, Y Erabot, M Nilachandra, among others, also spoke on the issue.
Zeliangrong Union Nagalim :It's good that Naga politicians of the so-called Manipur State have put their minds and souls to the inevitable Naga territorial integration. Nagas are not against the safety and integrity of Meiteis' 800 square miles Meiteiland. As we have stated clearly time and again, Nagas do not wish to possess even an inch of land that belongs to our neighbors and we will stick to it.
No power on this earth can keep on forcing the Nagas to live under separate administrations against the expressed determination of the Nagas. The Meiteis of 800 square miles Meiteiland will do well in realizing the truth that their illogical attempt to go on enslaving the Nagas with the help of the Indian armed forces is a crime against humanity. Meiteis must repent soon.
Our region is badly in need of development in all spheres of life. Let's be wise. Nagalim citizens want Meiteiland people to be ready for peace.

Thirteen signed but more may have egged them on The Imphal Free Press

NEW DELHI, June 24: The line of division between the various communities in Manipur on the issue of Greater Nagaland cannot be any clearer than now. What was till recently treated as a fallout of underground politics, has come to cast a direct shadow in the state’s legitimate corridors of power, with the submission of a memorandum by Naga MPs and MLAs of the state to the Prime Minister, openly supporting the NSCN(IM)’s concept of “Nagalim” (Greater Nagaland).
Besides Rishang Keishing, Mani Cheranamei, Gaikhangam and Francis Ngajokpa, whose names appeared in the top four slots of the memorandum submitted the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on May 27, the other signatories are in descending order: A Z Aza, Behring Anal, DK Korungthang, Wungnaoshang Keishing, Danny Shaiza, Henry Paotei, RK Thekho, Samuel Zendai and Mangaibou, making the total number of signatories 13. Besides the elected members of the state Assembly and the two MPs, a number of other ex-MLAs and government officials belonging to the Naga community, it is learnt visited the NSCN(IM) leader now stationed in New Delhi’s swank Lodhi Road, ostensibly to show their solidarity with the issue. It may be recalled that the memorandum in question, dated May 27, was drawn up after a dinner at the plush and members exclusive restaurant of the India International Centre, IIC, hosted by the NSCN(IM) leader Thuingaleng Muivah.

The memorandum is titled as the memorandum of “Naga Members of Parliament and Members of Legislative Assembly from Manipur, for strengthening the ongoing peace negotiations between the Government of India and the NSCN(IM).”
It clearly expresses ‘deep appreciations to the Government of India for acknowledging the “Unique History and Situation of the Nagas”’ besides calling for a unification of the Naga people under on political entity.

Reaction on Kangla articles
tmaisnam :This is a very long article but very informative for those following the current ever growing greater nagaland demands in manipur. The coming together of different tribes with no common language, who less than a century ago were killing each other, into such a composite entity, is a sign of how dynamic the world is and how quickly history can be created. Of course christianity was the major contributor to making these enemy tribes bury their hatchet and forge a NEW common ‘Naga’ identity in only a short span of a few decades. But is having only Christianity as a common denominator, a long term viable integrating qualification ? Unity, when there is a common enemy, is easy to achieve but even little differences blow up into full blown inter ethnic group hatred, once the common enemy to unify them is absent. So all the myopic current euphoria of greater nagaland will soon disintegrate in the future hypothetical case of them joining nagaland, as inevitably, nagaland tribes, who have enjoyed total political domination, will gradually resent a threat to their domination. Will the 113 thousands tangkhuls who dominate the non meitei political share in manipur, achieve the same political clout within nagaland ? The grass always looks greener on the other side ! I unsuccessfully tried to collect population split of nagaland ethnic groups like there exist in manipur.

http://www.sacw.net/peace/baruahMay2003.html
Confronting Constructionism: Ending India's Naga War by Sanjib Baruah
“…In … 2000 … The pamphlet entitled Bedrock of Naga Society … by the Nagaland …. chief minister S.C. Jamir ….asked, were we really an independent nation?...
…The stark and inescapable truth is that neither did we have a definite and unified political structure and nor did we exist as a nation. We were actually a group of heterogeneous, primitive and diverse tribes living in far-flung villages that had very little in common and negligible contact with each other. . . . Each village was practically an entity in itself. The main contact between villages was through the savage practice of headhunting. Mutual suspicion and distrust was rife. Internecine warfare was the order of the day. There was no trust or interaction between different tribes. In these circumstances, the question of a unified Naga nation did not arise (NPCC, 2000).
…. Indeed in many public statements Jamir and his supporters have described the NSCN-IM leadership as outsiders, and have asserted that solving the Naga political problem should be up to the Nagas of Nagaland. Such statements clearly are targeted at Muivah.

Commentary on Kanglk news tmaisnam :Though Keishing could have personally supported a greater nagaland, it is the fear of his life from NSCN punishment that has made him publicly sign the nagaland merger document. But that threat to one’s life, is a daily part of life that every official in manipur faces from the naharols. Just like the gun coerced manipuri officials cannot escape the NSA charges of supporting the naharols, Rishang Keishing cannot plead leniency under NSCN coercion. The other MLAs and MPs are elected by their constituents democratically so there is not much legal action that can be pursued except dropping them from their cabinet posts. However, Keishing is a Rajya Sabha member elected by the state MLAs, and this public seditious action cannot be ignored and so he must be sacked immediately. WE CANNOT LET SUCH A MAJOR PRECEDENT BE SET WHERE A REPRESENTATIVE OF ALL THE MANIPURI PEOPLE, IS OPENLY CALLING FOR THE BREAK UP OF THE STATE ! This folly is going to end his political ambitions to be at the centre of Manipur politics. The threat of Manipur being split up is very real and no calls for leniency and understanding of the coercion must be entertained if we are to be able to prevent our political leaders from openly supporting greater Nagaland in the future.

Also there must immediately be a strong demand from the Meiteis to end this GROSSLY DISCRIMINATIVE Indian govt policy of locking and isolating the Meiteis to just the 10% valley area of Manipur. The stage for appeasement has long been crossed and radical strategies must be employed at this dire stage. Besides this being an important strategy to neutralise the sole claim of all the hill areas by the NSCN, there is a REAL SURVIVAL NEED for the poor meitei farmers to access new farming areas in the hills. THE MEITEIS LIKE ALL MANIPURIS, WERE, ARE AND WILL PREDOMINANTLY BE A MAJORITY SUBSISTENCE FARMING COMMUNITY. This means that in the absence of any industries and economy to generate jobs, as a direct fallout of losing our millenniums old independence and being reduced to a neglected, poor, voiceless, minority amidst a BILLION Indians, most meitei families need a plot of land they can grow the crops to live on. As the population expands across all ethnic groups of the state, the hill based people have claimed and cultivated more of the almost inexhaustible hill areas for cultivation with village expansions and new villages. Unfortunately for the poor meitei farmers, the valley areas are already all cultivated and occupied with no room for expansion. As the meitei population, mayang immigrants, hill tribes migration all increases in the Manipur valley area, more and more previously cultivated land is being reclaimed for development and housing. This rapid diminishing of cultivable land has lead to the shortage and huge price increase of the farm land, making many poor farmers not able to own any land to eke out even a very minimal subsistence farming lifestyle. Meitei society in the villages is gradually moving to the EXPLOITIVE AND INEQUITABLE LANDLORD AND PEASANT MEDIAVAL SOCIETY, with most poor meitei farming families having no land of their own and so working on the lands of the rich landlords for miserable labour wages. This sad development can not be shrugged off when we have such an almost inexhaustible unpopulated hill area for these farmers to be given lands that they can clear under strict conditions of environmental protection and terrace cultivation only. We must act quick on the creation of new settlements in the hills for the expanding and disenfranchised poor meitei farming populations just like the hill populations have done, to cope with their population expansions. The alternative is to lose the farming skills and hard work ethics required to live off the land, if subsequent generations of these poor meitei farming families, have no land to farm. And the scary fallout of that is this frustrated and starving population joining the naharol movement, seeking not just more equity but hope for survival under a different system than the current one they are starving in !

If only these poor meitei families get to vote on the referendum for the meiteis to go SC/ST to avail the extra help and opportunities required, instead of the negligible non starving meitei population, who unfairly seem to have all the political voice to determine that decision and chose to prioritise their selfish ego over the hunger and struggle for survival of the majority poor in our meitei society !
Public :State territorial integrity is non-negotiable. If a party likes to widraw himself from the statehood of Manipur, he will loose himself free from the legislation of the land and get nothing to carry along with him. You can transit and exit the state but you cannot carry away the state. Its a simple rule, a rule that any land-hungry and power hungry moron cannot touch. If any such organization with few guns and army wants to do so, the people of Manipur will distegrate them into pieces first before making it happen. It is a simple warning sign of the public in mass and few communities does not have the right to move against it.
vivid_keishing :We want autonomy, but not under NSCN(IM) or NSCN(K). They are the terrorists who loot money from our blood. It is the responsibility of the GOI to develop us. People are against GOI, because they have not done any progressive work for our development since independent after mergering to them.
Thinking_Man :We do not know if these ministers were forced into signing the documents. Considering that militants run amok everywhere these days with an authority close to that of a local govt., it is more than likely that the Nagas have been persuaded to make it appear as if they support the dream country of 'Greater Nagaland'. But, it is and shall remain only a dream. Muivah has also become a lingering thorn costantly poking at the Manipuris and a day will come when he will need to be picked. More than likely, all these hu ha is a dying frog's last kick.
Read the article below:

Muivah and Nagalim By AD Singh

The Naga peace talk - more accurately the peace talk between NSCN(IM) and the Govt of India, is now at a crucial stage. It appears that the NSCN (IM) has tacitly reconciled itself to a settlement under the Indian Constitution. Notwithstanding its public pronouncement on sovereignty, it is no longer on the card. Having seen the world over the last three decades, beyond the narrow and dark confine of the jungles of Manipur and Nagaland both Isac Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah are now more pragmatic in their approach to the problem. They must have seen how the world is changing. They could not have failed to notice how ideology is gradually being pushed in the world arena, to back stage in relation to economic development.
It must be obvious to them that India of 2005 is not the India of 1960s with a begging bowl. India is now one of the fastest growing economic power. The USA is the only remaining super power. ( with least help to developing countries! for those whothink USA and george bush is the Messiah)
It does not require a trouble spot to make its presence felt.
More importantly, it recognises India's pre-eminent status in the region and values its relationship. It will not therefore, trouble itself with propping up a tiny land locked tribal country if there ever is going to be one, severed out of India. The same will be true for China. It is now more interested in economic power than ideology.
The only countries which may take a fancy in brewing trouble in the region are Bangladesh and Pakistan. But they are only of nuisance value and no where in a position to influence the outcome. Hence, bargaining or fighting for sovereignty is only a waste of time and a prolongation of suffering of the public. Already the region is decades behind others in economic development. ( LETS REMIND "SINKING RIMS")

Both the leaders know it. It is therefore understandable that 'Nagalim' is now the agenda no. 1 of the NSCN(IM) in its talk with Indian Government. The outfit more particularly Muivah is very passionate about it as it does want to show some gain for the three decades of fighting against India. (BUT POLITICAL AND PERSONEL GAINS SHOULD NOT BE BANDHS AND STARVING INNOCENTS CHILDRENS AND PEOPLE)

But unfortunately Muivah's Nagalim is not the same as the present State of Nagaland. It goes far beyond the borders of Nagaland into the territories of the surrounding Indian States of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, and adjoining country of Myanmar. The Naga inhabited areas in Myanmar which some body wants to call East Nagaland can not be the subject of discussion in the ongoing peace talk for obvious reason. That leaves the areas of the three States. In view of the strong posture of not conceding an inch of land taken by all the three States, the Indian Government do not have much room for manoeuvre.
The NSCN(IM) will of course, make an issue out of it Why is Nagaland so important to the NSCN(IM)? Is it because both the leaders Isac and Muivah belong to tribes outside the mainstream tribes of Nagaland? The answer is an emphatic Yes.
Muivah more than anybody else needs the land and people of Mao and Ukhrul for his political survival in any political setup in Nagaland. People in Chandel and Tamenglong districts of Manipur are poor cousins. They can be left behind if needed. He needs a political base in future.
Nagas of Nagaland are unlikely to remain ever grateful to him, once the issue is settled Remember Laldenga of Mizoram and the more civil AGP of Assam which rose to power at the crest of populism but fall by the wayside once the dust settled.

Promised land

What do Muivah have to offer to the common Naga people of Manipur in an Indian State of Nagaland or Nagalim by whatever name you call it? What useful degree of autonomy can Central Government offer it which are not available to other States? Perhaps a large dose of fund which will be squandered in no time. A village or town in Nagaland is as good or as bad as the ones in Manipur.

Nagaland is not the promised land of honey and opportunity. If some of the Manipuri Naga leaders see the new State as a green pasture for them, they are in for the shock of their lives. The people of Nagaland is a heterogenous group of tribes, each having its own culture and dialect.

They communicate each other by Nagamese, a hybrid of Assamese and Naga dialects. Ethnic politics will not make the life of any new entrant easy, particularly when it comes to sharing the cake however large it is made by the Central Government. It is bound to cause social conflict and stress. (IT IS EASIER FOR A ANGAMI CADRE TO PUNISH A TANGKHUL CADRE BUT NOT WITHIN
THE ETHINIC GROUP NO MATTER HOW BAD THE CRIMES ARE)

There need not be any denying of the contention of common origin of the various tribes of Nagaland and Manipur. But that was many generations ago somewhere in China. If one traces the root too far back, it will lead either to the ape or to Adam and Eve depending upon ones belief and conviction. The fact is every tribe or group has drifted and developed its own culture, custom and dialect through the ages. The drift is still continuing. Christianity has taught the hill people brotherhood and love of god and his people. But in the process it has obliterated the old culture and custom much in the same way Hinduism has done to the Meiteis. ( IT HAS ALSO DIVIDED PEOPLE AS BELIEVERS AND SATANIC NON-BELIVERS;AND COMMON BELIEFS AND TRADITIONS ARE DESPISED AT!!WIDENING THE GAP FURTHER)

Most tribals are now given English or Christian saint's names at the time of baptism. Hardly any of the old cultures remains except as entertainment programme in a function. Christianity unlike Hinduism which has hundreds of gods and goddesses, does not encourage idol worship except for Jesus and Mary. It is also against paganism. In a matter of one generation the culture and custom which are thought to be the linkage between the tribes has been blurred. So even if the Nagas of Nagaland and Nagas of Manipur have come from a common parentage, they have drifted far away from each other during the centuries. They have developed their own cultures, customs and dialects. They have to develop a lingua franca to communicate to each other. Possibly, Nagamese has to be learnt to communicate with the Nagas of Nagaland. (HOW DOES MUVIAH COMMUNICATE WITH A MAO OR KABUI??)

It is very doubtful whether the new found bondage, if there is going to be one, will be acceptable to the common people on either side.Physical integration without emotional integration will only be a social trauma and will be meaningless. On the other hand, the Nagas of Manipur are culturally and emotionally, inspite of outward denial by some, nearer to the Meiteis and other tribes of Manipur as they have lived and toiled together for centuries in the same land. By all accounts, it seems that it is only the middle class Nagas who are most vocal about 'integration' mainly from the presumed hegemony of the Meiteis. But that is a very debatable presupposition. True the valley has got better infrastructure. But in the hills because the villages are scattered on the hill tops with difficult terrains. The fact that only twenty percent of the population i.e. Tribals occupies eighty percent of the land of State is self explanatory. It is the geo-political condition which dictates development to an extent. Imphal is the capital city.

It belongs to all. There is no denying of the demand that every village either hill or valley should be developed. Muivah has been too long outside the State. Hence may not have noticed the great social changes occurring in the State. There is now better interaction and respect between the hill and valley people than before. The number of old Meitei grand mothers or fathers who were so fussy about cleanness and caste are dwindling. It is interesting to note that with Meitei revivalism, it is MOVING TOWARDS PROGRESSIVE TOLERANT tribalism.

So it seems the demarcation is being further blared. There are now more Naga people holding high offices and exercising power. It has also been alleged that the Nagas have been denied their rights and are discriminated against in the political field. True there had been only two Naga Chief Ministers in the State. But none among the Kuki and Mizo or Kabui has been a Chief Minister so far. Besides the patriarchal Rishang Keishing who else other Nagas leader has a political base in his constituency and arty. Politics is a different ball game where the fittest is not always the winner.

There is therefore no reason for the Naga people to be suspicious of the Meiteis and consider it as big brother. Simply they are brothers. Further there are only few villages which are inhibited by only a pure tribe.If a line is to be drawn to demarcate the Naga areas it will be a very tortuous one.

In conclusion, if there is not going to be a sovereign country of Nagalim, it is not worth the trouble for the Nagas of Manipur to demand redrawing of the boundary of Manipur which is bound to cause great hardship to all. This should not be considered as denial of right, rather it will be seen as statesmanship of Muivah. The future of Manipuri Nagas lies with Manipur. If the boundary for Nagalim is to be drawn, that will not be the last one.

thesangaiexpress.com/Others/Articles.htm
Vivid :To all Naga leaders; It is very important that you speak out like these few leaders have done. The only way the centre and the states involved will understand our determination is for all of us to speak out. This is a small step to the right direction. All Naga leaders and Naga citizens need to speak out for our rights. We do not wish to be under the domination of other communities who will always take advantage of us. We are a people with great determination and we can make our Naga nation the envy of the communities within and without Indian union. But first, we need to be always vigilent that someone else may not steal our rights and deprive us of what is rightfully ours. Our land is ours and it always will be; its only a matter of political reallignment. We do not want other peoples land, but artificial bounderies keeping us apart will be moved.
India says destroys Myanmar rebel camp GUWAHATI, India (Reuters) - Indian forces have destroyed one of the largest Mynamarese rebel bases in India, deep in the mountainous jungles of the remote northeast, police said on Saturday. The roughly 200 guerrillas and supporters living in the Chin National Army camp near the border with Myanmar fled before the attack, Lalgheta Sailo, police chief of Mizoram, said by phone from the capital, Aizawl. There were no casualties. The Chin army has fought a low-level rebellion since 1988 for more autonomy for the mainly Christian Chin in Myanmar's northwest, where government troops have been trying to force them to convert to Buddhism. The Indian operation began several days ago, part of an agreement by both countries to wipe out rebels on their soil. Indian rebels fighting for autonomy for northeastern states shelter in the jungles of Myanmar. It was not possible to independently verify the police comments. Rights groups and analysts estimate the size of the Chin army at 800-1,000, including about 500 actual combatants.