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07/19/2005: "Naga students urge Centre to expedite peace talks"


Naga students in Delhi hold demonstration
NEW DELHI, July 18: Demanding the creation of a "Greater Nagaland" and the "right to self-determination" for Nagas, the Naga Students' Union of Delhi (NSUD) on Monday held a demonstration at Jantar Mantar in the Capital. They later submitted a memorandum to the Union Government and the United Progressive Alliance chairperson and Congress chief, Sonia Gandhi, asking them to expedite the ongoing peace talks with the Naga leaders.
"Ahead of the expiry of the annual ceasefire agreement on July 31, the NSUD and the Nagas living in Delhi would like to join hands with the Nagas living everywhere in their homeland and abroad in support of our rights to live as a self-determined nation under one political system. Further, we would like to reiterate our firm support to the NSCN (I-M) towards a political settlement based on uniqueness of the historical aspiration of the Nagas," the memorandum stated.
"On the question of territorial integration of the Naga areas, we shall not rest till integration of Naga areas is a reality. We would like to impress upon the Government of India to fulfil the long-cherished aspirations of the Nagas and envision a new political relationship where national interests of the nations take its own shape," it said, adding that in pursuance of the declaration of the Naga Students' Federation to impose economic blockade in all the Naga areas against the decision of the Manipur Government, the NSUD and Nagas living in Delhi extended their complete support to the movement.

Naga students urge Centre to expedite peace talks Kuknalim.com
NEW DELHI, July 18: The Naga Student's Union of Delhi (NSUD) today submitted a memorandum to the Centre to expedite the ongoing peace talks to fulfil the long-cherised aspirations of the Nagas including ''Right to Self-Determination'' and creation of ''Greater Nagaland''. Almost 400 Naga students held a demonstration at Jantar Mantar here in support of their demands and submitted memoranda to the Union Government and Congress chief and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi.
''Ahead of the expiry of the annual ceasefire agreement on July 31, the NSUD and the Nagas living in Delhi would like to join hands with the Nagas living everywhere in their homeland and abroad in support of our rights to live as a self-determined nation under one political system. Further, we would like to reiterate our firm support to the NSCN(I-M) towards a political settlement based and like to reiterate our firm support to the group towards a political settlement based on uniqueness of the historical aspiration of the Nagas,'' the memorandum stated. It further stated, ''On the question of territoral integration of the Naga areas, we shall not rest till integration of Naga areas is a reality.'' ''We would like to impress upon the Government of India to fulfil the long-cherished aspirations of the Nagas and envision a new political relationship where national interests of the nations take its own shape,'' the NSUD said. UNI

Isak’s solo echoes in crusade backdrop
HENINGKUNGLWA, PEREN, July: Isak Swu, NSCN (IM) Chairman’s favourite song ‘It is not an easy road’ was today echoed against the backdrop of the first crusade against drug abuse and alcoholism...organized at camp ‘Operation Salvage’ Heninkunglwa in Peren district.
Gracing the concluding worship program of the three-day long event, former kilo kilonser and convenor, steering committee NSCN (IM), Rev. A. Puni expressed a deep concern for the degradation of morals and values among the youth. He said, the youth – undeniably the most valuable resource of the state, rich in talent, had deviated from their main objectives in life. As a result, a social disease prevails and for which, the only sustainable cure, lies in accepting Jesus with an open heart.
Quoting the NSCN (IM) chairman’s favourite song ‘It is not an easy road,’ Puni said, whatever we decide in life, the path is always rough and thorny. But indeed, you can be rest assured that this is the path of righteousness.
Reflecting upon the Bible verse, John chapter 4, verses 23 & 24, the former kilonser said, the moment has come for us to turn ourselves from blasphemy and accept the saviour with an open heart and mind. ‘There may never be another tomorrow,’ he advised. Crusaders from the NSCN (IM) CHQ, camp Hebron added a special significance to the program with their soul stirring solos and group performances. However, the most touching aspect of the crusade were the five testimonies and confessions shared by inmates on Saturday. Stirring the emotions of the gathering, the inmates virtually brought tears to the eyes of many. Also sharing a special message, head chaplain of the Council of Nagalim Churches (CNC) Major Shemjajo, called upon the inmates to embrace the saviour with repentance. he councilor of Tribal Farmer’s Association (TFA) Chilakpame, councillor of camp operation salvage Hukiye Aomi and some former inmates were among those who graced the concluding day of the crusade. Noel Manuel reporting from Heningkunglwa in Peren district of Nagaland

Students threaten secession campaign The Imphal Free Press
IMPHAL, Jul 18: Blaming the Indian government for the ongoing crisis in Manipur owing to the crippling economic blockade imposed by the ANSAM, the Democratic Students Alliance of Manipur, DESAM, has said the only solution is secession from India. The DESAM president, Laishram Romesh, told a joint press conference held with his AMSU and MSF counterparts that the Indian government was trying to drive a wedge among the peoples of the ‘South Himalayan’ region, and the present ethnic tensions in the region were the result of Indian colonial policy.

Adopting a radical tone, Romesh said the only solution was for the people of Manipur to stand on their own feet, and free themselves from dependence on others. Towards this end, the three student organisations of the DESAM, the All Manipur Students Union, and the Manipuri Students Federation would begin a campaign to promote local production of essential commodities. Romesh said if the government tried to crack down on the student bodies’ campaign to promote self-dependence, the three organisations would openly call for a secessionist struggle. Romesh went on to say that it was the joint stance of the AMSU, the DESAM and the MSF that separation from India was necessary to preserve our cultural identity. Stating that the people of the region should not bicker over ‘Indian-made’ boundaries, Romesh maintained they should compose their differences and adopt a united stance. He also appealed to the public not to put faith in rumours and restrain themselves from any action that could stir communal feelings. AMSU president, Ksh Umesh, addressing the mediapersons, reiterated that the economic blockade has caused serious hardship to the peoples of both hills and valley of Manipur and expressed regret over the lack of response of the blockade organisers to the appeals from various sections to bring it to an end. He said it was illogical to make the people suffer when the ANSAM’s demands were addressed to the state government.
On the active support being extended by the NSF to the ANSAM’s blockade, Umesh urged the Naga student body to reconsider their stance, and added that the matter has been taken up with the various constituent organisations of the North East Students Organisation, NESO. He also maintained that from the failure of the Central government to take steps to resolve the crisis, it appears that it was not being taken seriously, and said that if the Central government cannot act impartially amongst the peoples of the north-east, then there would be no option but for secession. This is the joint stance of the three student bodies, Umesh said. MSF president, S Sanjoy, while calling on the government to bring an early solution to the crisis, said if the Indian government was trying to break up Manipur, a break-up of the Indian union was inevitable.

meiteithu :IS THIS THE WAY BOTH SAKTHU N MEETEI SHOULD TALKED OVER THINGS.... HOPELESS ***
LAMM_OKK :Sakthu your response is not an answer to the question I posted. Only a member from the students body/bodies could answer or fit to answer, SAkthu.
meetei :TO LAM OK, OU FOOL. DON'T LOOK INSIDE YOUR ASS HOLE, LOOK THE UNIVERSE. THE ROOT AND SOLUTION LIES IN WITHIN THE INDIAN POLITS. YOU MORON, FOOL.
Lamm okk :Sakthu, it is not the duty of the Indian Government to safeguard your state, you are responsible. In the eyes of the GOI all the states are same, they think the whole of India as one country. So, the unision of NAGA areas of MAnipur to Nagaland is mere adjustment without disturbing the Indian boundary. Today these bloody students organizations are claiming to seperate Manipur if the GOI does not solve the blockade issue. I would like to know if their seperate dominion consists of the NAGA dominated areas?

Freight traffic on NH-53 from today The Imphal Free Press
IMPHAL, Jul 18: Utilisation of NH-53 on a major scale for ferrying in goods and essential commodities is expected to begin from tomorrow in view of the ongoing economic blockade on NH-39, even as 44 goods laden trucks arrived in Imphal under escort relatively unscathed. The trucks which reached Imphal today along NH-39 include 14 LPG-laden trucks and two oil tankers, while the rest are carrying essential commodities. Some trucks sustained broken windshields after they were stoned by blockade supporters at several points between Mao and Senapati, and some of the drivers suffered minor injuries, but no major damage was sustained. Reports said the MR personnel escorting the convoy had to open fire to disperse the bandh supporters along the way.

Interstate passenger buses heading towards NH-39 also came under attack from stone-throwing and catapult-wielding blockade supporters in the Mao to Senapati sector, but apart from some broken windows, no casualties were suffered. In the meantime, over 200 trucks, including many oil tankers were gathered this evening inside the Kangla preparatory to sending them under escort outside the state for lifting essential commodities and other items. Reports indicated that the trucks would proceed along NH-53 to Guwahati and other destinations via Jiribam and Silchar.
Despite the longer journey and uncertain road conditions, truckers gathered at the Kangla who spoke to IFP were more than ready to give the NH-53 a try. Even apart from the hardships they had to undergo owing to the blockade, they are subjected to every kind of harassment from various sections while passing through Nagaland, the drivers said. Driving through the Nagaland sector of NH-39 is like passing through a hostile war zone, one driver commented, and said the greater expenditure on fuel that would be required for plying along NH-53 would be balanced by the savings made on pay-offs required to be made to various sections in Nagaland, ranging from anti-social elements to the Nagaland police. Some of the drivers said plying along NH-39 is easier for the smooth flow of traffic, but the various kinds of harassments have reached intolerable limits, especially during the ongoing blockade. IANS adds: The Army Monday claimed it had cleared two key state highways that Naga students had laid siege to since June 20 to prevent trucks carrying essential items, fuel and medicines from entering Manipur.
"Vehicular traffic is moving on National Highways 39 and 53 which, had been blockaded for some days now," said an army spokesman. He refused to give details whether the army had launched an operation to clear the 27-day-old blockade.Petrol queues: With strict rationing of petrol imposed, the scene at various designated petrol pumps recall wartime conditions. For distribution of petrol which is due to begin tomorrow morning, long queues of vehicles had formed near designated petrol pumps since this afternoon. At the Krishnadas Oil Pump at Keisampat, the queue of two-wheelers had extended till the Hodam Leirak junction by 8:00 pm. Similar scenes were seen at other designated pumps, including the Kusum Oil Pump at Porompat. No oxygen scarcity: The health minister, L Nandakumar, clarified on the floor of the state Assembly today that media reports that operations at government hospitals have been put on hold due to shortage of oxygen, nitrous oxide and lifesaving drugs are untrue, and there is no question of stoppage of operations.
The minister, who made the statement during Zero Hour today, said there were adequate stocks of oxygen at JN hospital, Porompat, and operations there would continue as usual from July 25. Maintaining that there is no cause for concern, he said the government had 44 filled cylinders in stock, while 9 empty cylinders have been passed to the concerned private firms for getting refills. He also maintained there was no lack of equipment at various CHCs and other government hospitals.

AASU joins chorus against blockade The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Jul 18: The All Assam Students Union, AASU, has strongly urged the Naga Students Federation, NSF, to reconsider its active support to the ongoing economic blockade in Manipur taken by the ANSAM. The NSF, it may be mentioned, has imposed its own indefinite blockade on highways linking to Manipur since July 13 in support of the ANSAM’s stir, and the AASU’s statement comes in the wake of efforts by the All Manipur Students Union, AMSU, to bring pressure to bear on the NSF through fellow member organisations of the North East Students Organisation, NESO. The AASU’s president, Sankar Prasad Roy, and general secretary, Tapan Kumar Gogoi, in a joint statement, appealed to the NSF to undertake alternative modes of protest other than economic blockade, so that the age-old good relations between the peoples of Manipur and Nagaland are not hampered. The AASU statement also appealed to the NSF and the AMSU to sit across the negotiating table, and resolve the issues amicably for the general interests of the peoples of Nagaland and Manipur.
The All Assam Manipuri Students Union, AAMSU, has also asked the NSF to withdraw its economic blockade, warning that it would take up counter-measures in association with state level organisations of Assam if the Naga student organisation fails to do so. The AAMSU headquarters at a meeting held yesterday at Silchar, also condemned the stance taken by the ANSAM against the declaration of June 18 as State Integrity Day, taking the view that it was unjustified, according to a statement.
The meeting also felt that the NSF was wrong to have intervened in the matter as it was an issue between the ANSAM and the government of Manipur, the statement added. The Kabui Mothers’ Association, Manipur appeals to government of Manipur and the All Naga Students Association, Manipur to find immediate and amicable solution to end the ongoing economic blockade which has brought a serious perils of life in the state. Acute shortage of essential commodities and life saving medicine is fast leading the state to a doom’s day, it said in a release and appealed to business community in the state not to take undue advantage in the price hike.
Appealing to ANSAM to relax the ongoing economic blockade along national highways, the Manipur Pradesh Youth Congress has called for an amicable solution to the issue. It further appealed to the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee to review their agitation of indefinite bandh along national highway-39 and instead look for other means of agitations. Meanwhile, deploring the state of affairs prevailing in Manipur following the economic blockades along national highways, the Zeliangrong United Clubs Association, Manipur Valley (ZUCAM) blamed chief minister O Ibobi Singh for not giving a conducive atmosphere for talk with All Naga Students’ Association Manipur. In a statement, the ZUCAM further alleged SPF government of diverting the route of ending the agitation to New Delhi. The matter is a state subject but the government is running away from responsibility, the ZUCAM said adding that the Centre has nothing to do with the state affairs when there is a popular government. It also called for an amicable solution to the issue before it go out of hand.

Nagaland to take on Kerala banana chips Indo-Asian News Service
New Delhi, 2005 Kerala's famed banana chips are finally going to have a strong rival - from the northeastern state of Nagaland. As Nagaland sees a spurt in horticulture and floriculture, high-quality banana chips are going to be marketed aggressively along with fruits and dried flowers. Naga entrepreneur Marchiba Jamir's Nagaland Banana Chip is one success story in the current horticulture boom. Jamir has his own huge banana plantations and also buys raw bananas from farmers in the state.
"I intend to increase the production of chips and market them outside Nagaland. The taste and flavour are exotic. If the government improves the infrastructure, we can compete with the banana chips of Kerala," Jamir told IANS. Increasing demand and popularity of these products outside the region have bolstered the Nagaland government to focus on this potentially viable sector. Nagaland will soon supply pineapples to food processing giant Dabur while another unit for processing passion fruit is already operational in the state. Officials said the area under horticultural cultivation had increased manifold. Nagaland Horticulture Secretary LH Thangi said that apart from promoting private entrepreneurs, the state government is now focusing on "village area cropping" whereby farmers are encouraged to grow local fruits and vegetable.
"Most villages have their own local variety of fruits and vegetable. We intend to help the growers market these products. Every year there are huge post-harvest losses because of the lack of proper marketing outlets," she said. "Northeastern states are a natural source of floriculture products and we intend to tap the growing market for this industry." Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, litchis, pineapples and passion fruit can be easily grown in the northeastern states. The emphasis is now on making farmers self-reliant through new avenues to market the products. A long-running insurgency in Nagaland had wrecked the local economy and left market networks underdeveloped. Efforts to revive the Tuli paper mill, a large-scale unit in Mokokchung district that once produced some of finest pulps and papers, have been futile and it now lies in a moribund state, reflecting the lack of economic development in the state. But with the ongoing peace process and the ceasefire with insurgent groups bringing relative calm, economic development is being welcomed by entrepreneurs and farmers who hope to tap new markets.
Blockade issue: Manipur parties for Centre’s intervention From Our Corespondent
IMPHAL, July 18 – An all political party meeting in Manipur has resolved on seeking Central Government's intervention in solving the month- long economic blockade impasse and appealed to the blockade sponsor All Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM) to call of the agitation in the interest of the general public. The resolution also decided to depute an all political party delegation to New Delhi to apprise the Central leaders. According to an informed source, representatives of various political parties expressed their annoyance at the State Government convening the meeting when the situation had gone out of hand. ANSAM had launched an indefinite economic blockade since June 19 midnight in protest against the declaration of June 18 as a State Holiday by the State Government in Manipur.
The meeting held here on Sunday with Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh in the chair discussed the situation arising out of the blockade. The political leaders expressed that Centre’s intervention had become imperative in view of the ANSAM agitation assuming proportion of violation of democratic principles. The political leaders suggested to the Chief Minister to consult the Union Home Minister for Central Government’s intervention in solving the impasse to ease the burden faced by the common people. In addition to adopting resolutions to urge ANSAM to call off its agitation in view of inconveniences faced by the public the meeting also prevailed upon the CM to apply all possible means to procure essential commodities and ensure sufficient food-stocks. The meeting also appreciated the positive response and assurances from the Nagaland and Assam Chief Ministers to protect goods carriers in their respective States while insisting that the State Government adopt appropriate measures to prevent recurrence of highway disturbances in the future. Appeals were also made to the general public to exercise maximum restraint so as to preserve cordial relationships amongst various communities living in the State. The meeting was attended by representatives of INC, BJP, CPI, CPI (M), Janata Dal (Secular), MPP, FPM, DRPP and RJD, sources added.
UCM against dialogue with Nagaland based NGOs By Our Staff Reporter Sangai
IMPHAL, Jul 18 : Noting with grave concern the involvement of Nagaland based NGOs in the “internal affairs” of Manipur, the United Committee Manipur today said that any dialogue initiated to defuse the situation with ANSAM should not involve Nagaland based NGOs like the Naga Hoho or the NSF. In a statement, UCM said that since the Nagaland based NGOs have jumped into the fray, the economic blockade has now crossed the border of Manipur and noted with concern the statement of Chief Minister Nephiu Rio who said that he cannot assure 100 percent security cover to the trucks bound for Imphal.
The Centre has not fulfilled its Constitutional duty in providing protection along the highways, charged UCM and questioned why it is remaining a silent spectator even though the economic blockade is now a month long. To overcome the present crisis hitting the State, UCM has also asked all transporters and truckers to avoid taking the NH-39 route and instead travel along NH-53 for the time being. The Committee has also extended its gratitude to the drivers and transporters who have been braving the blockade to bring in goods from Moreh. The State Government too should extend all possible help to the transporters in ferrying their goods, it added. UCM warned that if the Govt rolls back its June 18 declaration, then it would be inviting another June 18.
Student bodies to take up campaign against divisive policies By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jul 18 : Categorically accusing the Centre of playing the divide and rule policy under the shadow of the economic blockade launched by ANSAM, three powerful student organisations of the State, AMSU, DESAM and MSF today said that they will soon launch a concerted campaign to make the State self reliant to defeat the divisive policies of New Delhi. Talking to newsmen, leaders of the three student bodies today said that their campaign would focus on encouraging the use of indigenously produced goods and to increase its productivity and discourage use of goods imported from outside. Recalling that Manipur was once an independent land having its resources and did not depend on others, the student leaders said that it is highly unfortunate that today the economy of Manipur has become dependent on others.
The campaign will also focus on the need to respect and protect the distinct identity of different communities residing in Manipur and to share each others' sorrow and joy to strengthen the age old ties that bind the people together. The student leaders also made it clear that if any attempt is made to quell the campaign launched against the divisive policies of India, then they will only intensify their campaign. DESAM president L Romesh addressing the reporters said that despite the sufferings faced by the people due to the economic blockade, it has given the strength and the resilience to the people to find ways to stand on their own feet without depending on others. The State Government fell into the trap laid by the Centre, said Romesh and added that it is highly unfortunate that some section of society too has fallen prey to the designs of the Indian Government to sow the seeds of distrust amongst the people. The people should not live under the shadow of such tactics deployed by the Indian Government, he asserted. Striking a mature tone, the student leader said that if some souls pass away in the movement for self determination, the fruits of their sacrifices will be received by the future generations. However if any communal discords arise, then the coming generation will inherit a place full of enmity and distrust. Given this reality, it is important for the people to identify their enemies and to oppose them, added Romesh.
AMSU leader Ksh Umesh said that the decision of the Naga Students' Federation to spear head the agitation in Nagaland merits serious thoughts and added that it (AMSU) has also taken a serious note of some MLAs appending their signatures endorsing the formation of Greater Nagaland even though the State Assembly had passed resolutions five times earlier pledging to protect the integrity of Manipur. He also questioned what action the State Government is contemplating to take. MSF president S Sanjoy said that the Centre should take note of the fact that while they are cooking up the divide and rule policy to fragment Manipur, the entire NE region will one day break away from the Indian Union. Sanjoy also asked ANSAM to call off its economic blockade keeping in mind suffering of the people. He also asked all to desist from any activities that may give rise to communal discord.
Gogoi seeks migrants’ tribunals by July 31Assam Indian Express Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today urged the Centre to set up tribunals under the provisions of the Foreigners’ Act, 1946 to detect and deport Bangladeshi migrants at the earliest, setting a July 31 deadline for this. Gogoi returned from Delhi yesterday after consultations with Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, senior leaders and Union ministers following last week’s Supreme Court verdict quashing the Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act. The Chief Minister said it was the Congress that had been pressing for an early solution to the migrants problem, adding: "The BJP, which is claiming credit for the repeal is only trying to communalise the Assam situation by dividing the migrants as Hindus and Muslims.’’ Gogoi hit out at senior BJP leader Pramod Mahajan, who on Saturday equated the Congress’ stand on infiltration with that of Bangladesh. "Both Congress and Bangladesh do not want to accept that there has been infiltration to India,’’ Mahajan had said. The Chief Minister clarified that neither the Congress nor the Centre had moved to introduce a new legislation after the IMDT Act was quashed. "It is a campaign mounted by the BJP and AGP to malign the Congress,’’ he said. The Gogoi Government has said it will abide by the court order to set up tribunals under the provisions of the Foreigners’ Act in all 32 districts.
Manorama wounds yet to heal in Manipur Assam Tribune
DELHI, July 18 – A year after the rape and murder of Manorama Devi in Manipur and subsequent protests shook the nation, the wounds are still raw for people of the state who say human rights violations “under the guise” of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act still continue, reports PTI.
The Central Government’s dilly-dallying on making public the report of the Justice BP Jeevan Reddy Committee which studied the Act has not helped matters. “The attitude of the armed forces has not changed though the harassment of innocent people may not be as blatant now because of the national media glare in the wake of Manorama’s killing,” says P Ramesh Kumar, lawyer for Manorama’s mother.
For a state which witnessed protests against the AFSPA almost since the law was promulgated in 1958, the rape and murder of Manorama, allegedly by personnel of the Assam Rifles, proved the proverbial last straw. The AFSPA gives armed forces immunity from prosecution even for killing during their operations.Manorama’s body bearing gunshot wounds was found in a field on July 11. Four days later, a handful of women staged one of the most shocking protests that India has ever seen.
Baring their bodies outside the then headquarters of the Assam Rifles in Kangla Fort in Imphal, they challenged the soldiers to ‘Rape Us, Kill Us’. For over a month, the entire state saw almost daily mass demonstrations calling for repeal of the Act. A youth committed self-immolation in the full glare of cameras. When the protests got too hot to handle, the State Government ordered that the municipal limits of Imphal city would be outside the ambit of AFSPA. Subsequently, the Centre ordered the Assam Rifles to move out of the Kangla Fort – seen as a ‘liberation’ by the Manipuris – and set up the Justice Reddy Committee. But students from the state studying in the national capital feel things have not changed much on the ground. “There are still many reports of people being picked up from the villages, tortured and sometimes killed,” said a student who wished not to be named. “But since these things are not happening in the city, they are not being chronicled,” she added. A people’s tribunal on AFPSA held in the capital in February made an attempt to chronicle some of these cases. A number of persons tortured allegedly by uniformed personnel and others whose kin had been killed came forward to testify. Some of the testimonies have been strung together into a moving documentary Manipur in the Shadow of AFPSA by young filmmaker Ajay Bhardwaj. The documentary, with no voice-over or music, is full of stark images: of people being beaten up by uniformed personnel, in some cases forced to beat each other up, the self-immolation and stories of the victims in their own words.
Says Bhardwaj: “Manipuri students have been taking these images to universities around the country. Some of those who saw these asked whether they were images from Vietnam or some nation ruled by an oppressive regime. We said these things are happening in your own country.”
People of Manipur want justice, but as the student said, “when the Centre sits even on the Justice Reddy report for over a month, what can we expect?”
200 trucks to be escorted along NH-53, CM informs Assembly By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jul 18 : With the Naga Students' Federation spearheading the economic blockade and non- cooperation movement in Nagaland, the State Government is ready to escort empty trucks on NH-53 to fetch essential items from tomorrow.
Significantly, the route along NH-53 does not touch Nagaland at all and connects Imphal to Jiribam which is on the Assam border.
Responding to a call attention motion raised by FPM MLA L Ibomcha, the Chief Minister said, “Since the alternative lifeline of the State, NH-53, is now motorable, around 200 empty trucks would be escorted along this route and the same will be brought back with the goods.”
Referring to news paper reports, the FPM MLA said that 17 Imphal based transporters had announced that it would shut down its business owing to the economic blockade and the imposition of huge taxes by different organisations along NH-39. If this is actually translated into action, the woes of the people will be compounded, said the MLA and asked what steps the Government has taken up.
Quoting the reports, the MLA said that the transporters had set June 22 as the deadline for the Imphal consignees to lift their goods, after which the transporters will shut shop.
L Ibomcha also pointed out that NH-39 has become a favourite whip for agitators and suggested opening an FCS godown at Jiribam along NH-53. He also informed the House that prices of essential commodities have hit the ceiling.
Replying to the motion, Chief Minister O Ibobi said, “I have personally visited some of the transporters and confirmed the problems faced by them.”
On the indefinite economic blockade called by ANSAM since the midnight of June 19, the Chief Minister said, “We are making serious attempts to hold a dialogue with ANSAM and feelers have been sent. We are also talking with our Naga collea- gues to break the ice and pave the way for a talk.”
Acknowledging the difficulties faced by the common people due to the economic blockade, the Chief Minister assured the House that efforts will be taken up on a war footing to open NH-150 to provide yet another lifeline for the State. The task of opening this stretch will be taken up during the current fiscal, if possible, added the Chief Minister.
On the exorbitant rates at which petrol and LPG are being sold in the black market, the Chief Minister said that strict instructions have been issued to check sale of petrol and LPG in the black market.
The Government will also compensate the losses suffered by vehicles during the current blockade as per the rules, assured the Chief Minister.
Admitting that the Jiri rail line is the best option left for the people at the moment, the Chief Minister said that until and unless the rail line materialises, “We have to face some unwanted incidents.”
Positive development
The joint appeal of the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and the Coordination Committee of State’s Minorities Organisations to all sections of the people of the State to maintain peace and harmony in the aftermath of the Supreme Court verdict striking down the contentious IM(DT) Act is a welcome development in view of the volatile situation prevailing in the State. Both sides have done well to warn the people to defeat all provocations aimed at harming the age-old goodwill and fraternity prevailing among the people in the State. The meeting between the two opposing groups has been described as a historic one, considering the fact that this is the first such successful attempt made by them to bridge the gap between the State’s majority and the minorities on the aliens’ issue, since the beginning of the Assam agitation way back in 1979. The appeal is all the more important in view of the attempts by certain reactionary forces to create communal clashes in certain pockets of the State on the pretext of the repeal of the IM(DT) Act. Attempts to polarise the people of the State on religious lines to serve narrow vested political interests can never be tolerated and both the AASU and the minority bodies have shown maturity and wisdom in calling for restraint from all sections of the people at this critical phase of the State. It is hoped that the twelve minority bodies which took part in the discussions would play a meaningful role in explaining to the apprehensive minority people the true import of the Apex Court judgement, so that they do not become a tool in the hands of uncrupulous elements.
An important fallout of the joint meeting of the AASU and the Coordination Committee of the Minorities Organisations is the consensus arrived at between the two groups on the status of the illegal migrants. Both sides have agreed on the deportation of the post-March 25, 1971 migrants within a stipulated time frame as per the provisions of the Assam Accord, while asking for provision of identity cards to the genuine Indian citizens identified in the process. Besides, the joint declaration issued at the end of the meeting has also demanded immediate steps to update the 1951 National Register of Citizens (NRC) based on the 1971 voters’ list to pave the way for deportation of the post-March 25, 1971 migrants. In a significant development, both sides were firm in opposing any attempt at grouping the illegal migrants, as refugees and illegal migrants on the basis of their religious affiliation. The AASU has all along been opposed to any classification of illegal migrants on the basis of religion and this consensus assumes importance in the light of the BJP’s repeated assertion that Hindu illegal migrants from Bangladesh should be treated as refugees as they had to flee that country due to persecution. The AASU’s impartial stand on the status of the illegal migrants is a step in the right direction and this must have gone a long way in bringing the AASU and minority organisations closer as the AASU stand vindicated its policy of viewing the illegal influx problem dispassionately without making any distinction on religious lines. The joint declaration of AASU and the minority organisations should go a long way in solving the influx problem in the coming days. The tripartite talks involving the Centre, State government and AASU has already decided to update the NRC and strengthen the Indo-Bangla border. Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi’s announcement to set up 32 tribunals under the Foreigners’ Act while accepting the Apex Court verdict is also a positive step. All in all, the major players in the post-SC verdict period have played their roles with maturity and wisdom and this augurs well for the State and the people in the coming days.

Territorial integrity of Manipur By Lt. Col. H. Bhuban Singh (Retd.) Sangai commentary
Manipur seems to be on the brink of disintegration on account of Nagalim, a euphemism for Naga integration. All the Naga MPs and MLAs of Manipur had signed a memorandum and submitted it to the Prime Minister of lndia in the last week of May, praying for Naga integration. The other dominant group, the Manipuri Kukis, who are though ethnically, culturally and linguistically more akin to the Mizos of Mizoram, did not say even a single word of their wanting to join Mizoram State, and help in further disintegrating Manipur. Therefore, it will not be quite correct to label the issue of ‘integration’ or ‘disintegration’ of Manipur as fight between hills people and plains people. It seems to be a tussle between plains Manipuri Meiteis plus Manipuri Muslims (constituting about 6% of population, represented by 3 MLAs in the current Manipur Legislative Assembly and having even produced a Muslim Chief Minister of Manipur) plus the Kukis with ten MLAs (currently) plus the complete lot of mainland Indian varieties (speaking Manipuri language, enjoying Manipuri cuisine, participating in Manipuri festivals etc) like Marwaris, Sikhs, Hindu Punjabis, Rajputs, Bengalis, Biharis etc, on the one hand and some Nagas of Manipur who are dubbed as Kacha Nagas in Nagaland, on the other hand.
A look-back into the history of Manipur will be worth the while to understand the conflict situation. On the battlefield of Khongjom fought on 25 April 1891, the Manipur Army got beaten by British forces led by Brigadier General T. Graham advancing from Tammu on the south. On the morning of 27 April, the flag of Manipur King was pulled down and the Union Jack hoisted at Kangla Fort, the seat of power. By that time, the northern column under Major General H. Collett commanding the whole Manipur operation, coming from Kohima, had reached Kangla without a fight. So was the Cachar column under command of Colonel RHF Rennick, again without any battle. On every count, Manipur had no chance of survival. Manipur could have survived on a Bhutan type of sovereignty, through diplomacy only. By 1891, Burma was already under British rule with Burmese king deposed after the third and last Anglo-Burmese war (1885-86). Manipur was completely encircled by British territories and above all by their armies.
Even Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Lion of Punjab, avoided lighting the British, in spite of many provocations. Choosing to fight the British, may be an honourable act, but was tactically wrong.
Coming back to events in post-conquest Manipur, war crime trials took place, Yuberaj Tikendrajit Singh and General Thangal were hanged publicly on 13 August 1891 in Imphal. Others who were hanged inside Imphal Jail included Kajao. Thangal and Kajao were Nagas appellatively only. Meiteis claim that Thangal was a Meitei from the family of Kangabams in Brahmapur Leikai of Imphal. Famous hero and historical personality as he was, General Thangal is also claimed to have originated from Thangal Surung village in Senapati district and also from Thangal village situated about 25 kilometres from Bishnupur in old Cachar road. Therefore, it is proved beyond doubt that many tribal noblemen like Thangal, Kajao etc., adorned the palace of Manipur Kings as prominent noblemen, even as late as end of nineteenth century, when kingship existed.
Going further back into history, Queen Nungselchaibi of Maram village in Senapati district, was the mother of King Pamheiba alias Garibniwas, an outstanding king of Manipur. It is also believed that King Paikhomba, who was picked up by the Royal Elephant searching for a suitable king, was a Kuki tribal boy from a village well beyond Moirang. He was known as Paikhomba, since he was carrying a pai or paitu (cloth bag), which Kukis carry even now over his pant, coat and neck tie. But once a tribal becomes king or queen, they soon got absorbed into Meitei fold. It was perhaps like Marry, Queen of Scotland becoming Her Majesty Queen Marry of England and Scotland however short her reign was in British history, during the mediaeval period.
Culturally and linguistically, Meiteis and tribal were and are very close. Leirum, a Tangkhul shawl is a compulsory item in the dowry of Meitei girl on her marriage. A Tangkhul and a Kabui are part of Lai Haraoba Festival of Meiteis even now. Tangkhul language is very similar to Meiteilon. We have a shared history and culture. Sober and far sighted tribal elders may think over deeply.
I have known Rishang Keishing for the last fifty eight years since 1947, during our college days at Calcutta (now Kolkata) in different colleges, though he was senior. He is a seasoned politician, having been Member of Parliament in the first Lok Sabha of 1952 on Socialist platform. He is the longest Chief Minister of Manipur till today, having been Chief Minister for five terms of unequal durations, totalling a little over ten years. I had detailed discussion with his friend, Thokchom Chandrasekhar Singh, who were Councillors together in the first Territorial Council of Manipur in 1957.
Chandrasekhar and I came to the same conclusion of Rishang’s stead fast loyalty as an Indian and also as a Manipuri. Therefore, the hullabaloo about Rishang inking the memorandum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for Naga integration at number one slot, consequent to a dinner party hosted by leader of NSCN(IM) at posh hotel called India International Centre, New Delhi, which he did not attend, may be viewed something like a signed confession of a detainee in the police lock up in any police station in India. It may be relevant to mention that Rishang was ambushed unsuccessfully by NSCN(IM) when he was Chief Minister. It is also learnt that NSCN(IM) leaders used very rough languages to some of our honourable MLAs at the hotel itself on that very night. The performance of NSCN(IM) at the hotel and elsewhere was, indeed deplorable. Nagaland or Nagalim will suffer from a tough oligarchy under NSCN(IM) dispensation. Democracy and rule of law do not seem to be in their agenda. In the 18 June uprising of 2001 in Manipur against extension of Cease Fire (CF), no tribal got killed or got hurt, even though the Chief Minister Bungalow office was burnt down, Manipur Legislative Assembly hall was razed to ashes with two MLAs almost roasted to death, many MLA and MP quarters completely charred and eighteen precious lives lost. The decision of the GoI to roll back CF ‘without territorial limits’ and limit CF inside Nagaland only, saved Manipur. Even when CF is confined to Nagaland now, we are hearing about clashes between NSCN(IM) cadres and Assam Rifles (AR) in Ukhrul Districts of Manipur, very recently. We should be thankful to AR for implementing CF Ground Rules explicitly. If CF was permitted to be extended to Manipur, we will surely see NSCN(IM) camps at lmphal, say at Nagaram or at Langol hills or at Singjamei etc. As permitted by CF ground rules, NSCN(lM) cadres armed to the teeth, from Langol would have moved or frequently be moving through Khwairamband bazaar, when they do rotational transfer of cadres from one designated camp to another. Non-extension of CF was the correct step. A point to be noted is that celebration of 18 June uprising every year was to remind all of us of the need to integrate plains men and hillmen and to display the noble sentiment of unity, and is not directed against. any community. The angst for declaring 18 June 2005 as a Government holiday is a matter between Chief Minister Ibobi Singh and ANSAM (All Naga Students' Association of Manipur).
Meanwhile, the reported decision of Naga Students Federation (NSF) of Nagaland to carry forward the agitation begun by ANSAM, has skewed the agitation. The public of Manipur will be closely watching the reaction of Rio Govt of Nagaland, since we arc fed up with knee-jerk reaction of lbobi Government. If student organization continues to enforce such kind of diktats then, what will happen if Nagaland is economically blockaded by students of Assam, and Assam by students of West Bengal etc. Nepal is never economically blockaded by India. Have a heart; sanity should prevail. Students should confine their activities to academic matters only and should not cross their Lakshman Rekha.
There are about thirty Kabui villages in Imphal valley. Some of the Kabui villages in Imphal area are at Keisa-mthong, Moirangkhom (Janmasthan), Mahabali, Sanjen-thong, Kakhulong, Nongmeibung, Thangal Bazar, Wan-gkhei, Langthabal, Kongba, Chingmeirong, Thangmei-band, Sangaiprou, Tera Keithel etc. Kabui are intermingled with Meiteis in Nambol, Bishnupur, Moirang, Kwakta etc. In fact, their villages are to be found in all the four plains districts of Manipur. Also the total Kabui population in the valley is almost equal to the population of Tamenglong district. If Tamenglong is to join Nagalim, what does Mani Charenamei think of left over Kabuis of lmphal valley? He has to provide an answer. Let me offer a proposal. What about integrating Manipur and Nagaland and call the new Indian State as ‘Maninagapur’? This will reduce overhead expenditure of having two States.
Kabui culture is very much like Meitei culture. They worship Sanamahi, Leimaren etc. Mr Amu Kamei a well known politician and social worker ran away from my house one late afternoon on Ningol Chakouba day, saying that he had to rush home to give ‘dakshina’ to his sisters, who had come for the festival. He used the word ‘dakshina'. I was surprised but was elated privately on our common cultural heritage. Meiteis should not react too harshly on the proposal for setting up of a Boundary Commission. Looking objectively in the entirety of India, there are problems of Nagalim, Vidharbha, Telengana, Gorkha state, Garo state (if Purno Sagma is to be believed) Meitreibak (if Akaba is to be believed) etc. We should not read too much between the lines. A Boundary Commission cannot be end-all and be-all of everything. Indian Constitution lays down certain procedures for creation or modification of boundaries of States. Meanwhile, the Govt of Manipur and the public are to take positive steps to win the hearts and minds of our tribal brothers and sisters.

Garam Hawah in Manipur Manipen
Hot wind is blowing from the hills of Manipur towards the valley at present. Forty Government offices had been put to flame because a drunken security personal picked up a quarrel with few youths and caused fire arm injury to two of them. And the Government had done its legitimate duty of escorting the 100 odd goods vehicles stranded in Nagaland for more than 10 days. The two national highways to Imphal had been under ‘economic blockade’ by the All Naga Students' Association, Manipur, for the last three weeks, cutting off supply of foodstuff and other essential commodities to the state. Sounds mad! But there is a method in their madness. It follows a pattern. The Prime Minister and the chairperson of the UPA had been at pain to explain to the leaders of the NSCN(IM), that their demand for ‘integration of all Naga inhibited areas under a single administrative unit (Nagalim)’ cannot be granted unless the people agrees to it. The witty leaders grasped the message quickly. So! So let it be a people’s demand and movement, they ordained. The ‘integrationists” were only waiting for an opportune moment to start the movement. O lbobi Singh, the Chief Minister of Manipur, handed them on a platter the right ingredient for the recipe of an agitation, by declaring holiday on the 18th June 05 and terming it ‘state integrity day’ in all innocence. There had been tell-tale signs in the air during the past few years particularly after the arrival of lsac and Muivah in India, of turning the arm conflict to a political movement. The return of the Naga people to their homes in the hills following the 18th June 01 incident and extended ‘refugee camps’ at Senapati, very vocal and loud complaints of neglect and administrative inefficiency in some divisions of Ukhrul are all pointers to a greater design. Only unfortunately, our great leaders had failed to hear the rumbling of the thunder in the hills, because the Madame in Delhi had assured them that the boundary shall be protected. A state of inertia had crept in them from over confidence, rather from over dependence. Even now the MP of the inner parliamentary seat is chirping that there is no danger to the boundary of Manipur. The people of Nagaland yarns for peace after decades of needless death of thousands of young Naga people for a cause and goal which are not clear to them. So while the cease-fire accord between the Central Government and the NSCN (IM) was signed they, like any other people in Manipur, welcomed it whole heartedly. They do not like to lose it now. They gave the leadership of NSCN (IM) a rousing reception on their arrival at Delhi and Dimapur. They treated the leaders as heroes, but pressed for a lasting peace. They were also perhaps ready to go along with the NSCN(IM) in its demand for a Nagalim, if only peace is to return to the state. Remember, earlier the idea was anathema to them. How the Maos, Tangkhuls and others were viewed by the Nagas of Nagaland in the past cannot be forgotten that easily.
The die was cast for a popular movement for Naga-lim. What better place than Manipur to start it? The western and northern fronts bordering Assam and Aru-nachal, are quite and do not show much enthusiasm. But the Tangkhul people of Ukhrul district and some activists of Mao area are suffering from misplaced grievance against the State Govt and specially against the Meiteis for acts done to them by the forefathers of the later. So it is a fertile political situation to sow the seed of discontent and rebellion. The slogan of a Christ Land also has a great appeal to them being devout Christians.
Hence the blockade and burning down of Government buildings to erase any trace of administration of the State Government, which, of course, has no moral authority to denounce, for it has allowed similar burning in the valley in recent past. The next step shall be to create a constitutional crisis in the State by asking the MPs and the MlAs who had wittingly and unwittingly signed the memorandum to the Prime Minister, to resign. Then create a situation where election to the vacant seats cannot be held before six months as required under the constitution. It is to the credit of the Meiteis and other tribes that they are showing extreme patience and tolerance. So the present agitation is not a simple spontaneous outrage of the people on the declaration of a holiday or affirmation of state ‘integrity’. It is only a curtain riser for a very well planed and well thought out political game plan.
The greatest disappointment is, however, the failure of the State Government to foresee their plan. When the protest rally and eco-blockade was announced, it should have gone all out for a media bombardment explaining its intention and the rationality of the action. Or it could have swallowed part of its pride and said the Government has taken note of the sentiment of the agitationists and shall act accordingly in future. But the ANSAM and the power that be, did not lose the god given opportunity. But what is there to be so sentimental about a holiday ? After all, the state assembly had passed seven resolutions on safe-guarding the integrity of the state in recent past. Is it not the legitimate duty of a state to pronounce its determination to safeguard the interest of the state and to remind its people to be on the alert of divisive forces? If the ‘Naga integrationist’ believe in democratic norms, they could have moved a resolution to that effect through their numerous MLAs. The resolution might have been defeated, but they could have made the point all the same. Then they will have a reason to agitate. But nothing of the sort has happened. Instead some MPs and MLAs had been made to sign over dinner in Delhi, a printed memorandum to the Prime Minister lending their support. So it can not be said that the State Government and the people particularly the Meiteis are unsympathetic to the hill people.
But now allegations of discrimination against the tribals by the Govt have been made, it will only be proper and fair that the Govt examine the allegations honestly and earnestly, and come out with a white paper on the per capita allocation of funds, the investment in infrastructures in the region etc vis-a-vis a village in the valley of similar size and population since statehood. to be contd
India's SC bid must wait for UN reform, says Bush by Aziz Haniffa
Tuesday, July 19, 2005,US: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's assertions that India has a very compelling case for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council was well taken by President Bush during their Oval Office interaction, but the latter reiterated the US position that now is not he time. Dr Singh's reference to this issue during the joint press conference following his discussions with Bush clearly indicated that though India knew all along that a US endorsement of its bid for a UNSC seat was not going to happen, particularly after Washington's public warning that it would oppose the G-4 resolution. However, the disappointment was palpable.

Bush, Manmohan stress stronger ties
Tuesday, July 19, 2005, Washington: President George W. Bush on Monday offered India's prime minister a wide-ranging economic and security partnership with the United States, but stopped short of promising the nuclear energy technology India seeks to fuel its fast-growing economy. After a meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that underscored U.S. recognition of India as a rising power, Bush said the two countries were holding a "bilateral energy dialogue to find ways to work together" on nuclear power. The United States is eager to improve ties with the world's largest democracy, attracted by India's booming technology expertise, growing commercial market and strategic importance as a counterweight to China both militarily and economically.
But Washington has balked at lifting curbs on providing atomic technology to India because of India's status as a nuclear power that has refused to sign the nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, which was designed to halt the spread of nuclear weapons. Singh said India had an "ambitious and attainable national road map" in civilian nuclear power, aimed at fueling economic growth for the South Asian country's billion people. He touted Indian economic growth of 7 percent a year in recent years.
A joint statement detailing agreements in nuclear power as well as cooperation in areas such as space exploration and health was delayed for hours as the two sides worked out wording. U.S. proposals circulating before Monday's meeting pointed to increased cooperation on nuclear safety and research.
INDIAN EXCEPTION? Robert Hathaway, director of the Woodrow Wilson Center's Asia Program, said India had viewed the nuclear issue as a "touchstone of U.S. seriousness to transform the relationship" and expected greater progress after two years of discussions.
"If I were sitting in New Delhi now I don't think I'd be particularly enthused about the promise of another working group or dialogue," said the South Asia analyst. Singh asked Bush to show "strong leadership" on the nuclear issue, but told reporters he was satisfied with the way Washington was addressing India's request for nuclear help. Congressional aides said some restrictions could be eased once India had tough export controls in place and agreed to put some of its civilian reactors under international safeguards. John Pike, a national security expert with GlobalSecurity.org, said the administration's hands were tied for now because India had not signed the NPT. In 1998, India and Pakistan conducted tit-for-tat nuclear tests. Pike predicted Bush would treat India as an exception "because they are emerging as one of our leading strategic partners, and we're prepared to make exceptions in the case of countries that we need."
But opponents of any policy change say setting aside the rules for India would make it harder for the United States to stop Russian or Chinese transfers to states of concern. Bush's push to help India increase its coal and nuclear power generating capacity is being driven at least in part to give New Delhi an alternative to a proposed $4 billion gas pipeline deal with Tehran, which Washington accuses of trying to secretly develop nuclear weapons. Singh said India had a "compelling case" for a permanent seat on an expanded U.N. Security Council. But Undersecretary of State Nicholas Burns said Bush told Singh the United States wanted fundamental reforms of the United Nations before any expansion of the council and hoped there would be no vote on council enlargement in coming weeks.
"Once those reforms are made, then of course we'd be willing to look at the question of U.N. Security Council expansion," he said.

Bush to visit India soon: Manmohan Singh Tuesday, July 19, 2005, Washington:
US President George W Bush has agreed to visit India at the earliest, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Monday. Addressing a joint press conference with US President George W Bush after wide-ranging talks here, Singh said "the US President has accepted my invitation to visit India at the earliest". Describing the two countries as "vigorous and vibrant democracies", he said the results of the understanding reached between the two countries during his current visit would be fully evident by then.




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