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10/06/2005: "PRESS RELEASE: NSCN LAMBASTES MEGHALAYA POLICE"

PRESS RELEASE: NSCN LAMBASTES MEGHALAYA POLICE
The NSCN/GPRN in gravest term lambastes the heinous crime committed upon three of its cadres and two innocent civilians by the Meghalaya Police (Special Operation Team) at Mawlyngad village in Sohryngkham on the 5th October 2005.
The victims, Late Chuba Walling, Late Imsang, Late Mixson, Late Martin and Late Victor were apprehended by the Meghalaya Police and inhumanely tortured to death while in their custody, i.e., the former three victims are cadres of the NSCN and the latter two civilians, who were stated to have been killed in a false encounter. The unarmed victims were stated to have been killed during a retaliatory counter assault, and to corroborate their stage managed encounter with bank robbers is paradoxically bereft of substantial evidences.
The mortal remains of the victims bearing excessive deep blue and black scars and wounds all over the body inflicted by the so called law enforcers during the onslaught brings to light that of inhumane torture and consequent death rather than a retaliatory armed encounter. The ghastly injuries of eyes being gouged out, fractured skull with the brain smashed out and the internal organs protruding out leaves one to wonder as to how such injuries had been inflicted upon the innocent victims, who were at a domestic cruise to visit relatives, in a concocted skirmish. To add color and flavor of an armed confrontation to this ugly cooked up account, the perpetrators also planted arms upon the victims to portray munitions captured during this supposedly incident, after laying the dead bodies on the ground and spraying with full of bullets. If, at all an armed assault took place while traveling on a vehicle (Tata-Sumo), why is there not even a bullet penetration hole on the body of the vehicle on which the victims were traveling. There arises a more surprising question as to why the Meghalaya State machinery did not allow a post mortem of the victims’ corpse in the presence of a magistrate.
During the period of Cease-Fire in-between the NSCN and the GoI, more than 20 (Twenty) innocent NSCN cadres/officials and civilians have been killed in Meghalaya alone on the pretext of false encounters or other allegations. The false allegations upon the NSCN of involving in anti-social activities are all baseless reasons which are aimed for being the premise to eliminate its members, and to subdue the peace process and tarnish its image. The NSCN has so far been adhering to the cease-fire ground rules in letter and spirit and has also been upholding social values by waging campaigns against anti-social elements throughout. But contrary to that, the continued Indian state sponsored terrorism has prevailed unabated. Therefore, the GoI (Government of India) is answerable to its adverse policies and also has to adopt measures to check such occurrences in future than losing respect and may also fracture all efforts to usher in peace.
The NSCN/GPRN appeals to the International Human Rights Commission to intervene into the human rights violations taking place in the region, and also seek wide condemnation by all Human Rights Society and peace loving people against the atrocities upon the innocent people by the Indian Army Issued by: MIP
NSCN-IM confirms cadre deaths Kuknalim.com
KOHIMA, Oct. 6: The NSCN-IM has admitted that three of their cadres, along with two civilians, were killed in Mawlyngad in Meghalaya yesterday. According to a statement here today, convenor of the cease fire monitoring cell of the NSCN-IM Phungthing Shimrang said altogether five persons were killed in the encounter with police yesterday.
They were identified as Chuba Ao, Mixon Shimray, Imsang Zeliang, Victor HMAR and Martin.
He confirmed that Chuba, Imsang and Martin were the cadres of the NSCN-IM, while Nixon and Victor were civilians and were the driver and handiman respectively of the vehicle in which the cadres were travelling. The convenor alleged that people who went to examine the bodies suspected whether the cadres were killed in encounter seeing the nature of wounds on their bodies. Moreover, the vehicle bore no bullet marks which apprently showed that they had been arrested, tortured and then beaten to death and then bullets pumped into their bodies, the spokesman alleged. (UNI)
Naga talks in Bangkok from next week Times of India IANS [THURSDAY, OCTOBER 06, 2005
Dimapur (Nagaland): Government negotiators and an influential tribal separatist group in Nagaland will be beginning fresh talks in Bangkok from next week aimed at ending India's longest-running insurgency, a rebel leader said on Thursday.
"Talks are likely to begin on Oct 11 or 12 and would centre on our main demand of integrating all Naga inhabited areas in the northeast," said Kraibo Chawang, a senior leader of the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM).
He said the government's chief peace interlocutor K. Padmanabhaiah was expected to lead the talks, with NSCN-IM leaders Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah heading the rebel delegation.
The NSCN-IM is currently holding peace talks with New Delhi after the two sides entered into a ceasefire in 1997. New Delhi is also operating a ceasefire with the rival NSCN faction headed by guerrilla leader S.S. Khaplang since 2001 although formal talks are yet to begin...
Crude oil seepage in Nagaland Hindustan times Dimapur
Residents of Changpang village in Wokha district of Nagaland are facing untold hardship due to crude oil seeping from the ground. A press release issued by a former chairman of the village council, Opvuo Odyuo, said that there had been leakage of huge amount of crude oil at several places preventing villagers from crossing over to nearby jungles for collecting their daily necessities. When contacted, the ONGC refused to look into problem on the ground it was yet to strike a deal with the Government of Nagaland for extracting crude from the oil field. With the government not being able to stop the leakage, there are apprehensions among the villagers that a fire may break out in the village, similar to that of the oil well fire at Dikom in Assam. According to the release, there had been a leakage in April as well but it had been brought under control by the ONGC. However, this time round, the ONGC has decided to pass the buck to Department of Geology and Mining and the Government of Nagaland. The village has in the meanwhile appealed to the government to initiate measures to bring the situation under control. (By arrangement with Newsfile)
Nagaland fears another Dikom in Changpang The Morung Express
Kohima, Oct 5 (MExN): The residents of Changpang village in Wokha district of Nagaland are suffering due to leakage of crude petroleum oil from an abandoned well of the Oil and Natural Gas Commission (ONGC) for the past few months. According to a press release issued by a former chairman of the Changpang Village Council Opyuo Odyuo, there had been leakage of huge amount of crude oil at several places. The villagers were also taking the initiative to prevent accidental fires, which may turn into a towering inferno like Assam’s Dikom fire.
The release said ONGC, when contacted, refused to look into problem on the ground that it was yet to strike a deal with the Nagaland government for extracting crude oil from the oil field. Even as the petroleum oil seepage is causing environmental hazards, the government has not taken any steps. Mr Odyuo said there had been crude oil leakage at the Champa Camp in April. But at that time, the leakage was immediately stemmed by the ONGC. However, this time when the ONGC was contacted, it shifted the blame to Nagaland’s Geology and Mining Department. The oil leakage poses a grave health threat to humans and domestic animals and poses a threat to forests and tree plantations, he said and appealed to the government to take adequate measures. It may be mentioned here that the NSCN-IM had warned all concerned not to exploit petroleum without the permission of the outfit and declared it as "national wealth". It also announced severe action against anybody who tried to "violate the order".
Centre-NSCN(IM) talks on Oct 9 Nagas, Centre to resume talks October 06, 2005
The next round of talks between the Centre and National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Issac-Muivah) would be held on October nine in Bangkok, Union Minister Oscar Fernandes who heads the Group of Ministers on Naga negotiations said on Thursday. The NSCN (IM) has been operating from South Asian territories since nearly four decades. It entered into a ceasefire agreement with the government in 1997. The government, on its part, extended the ceasefire period for another six months after the earlier ceasefire agreement expired on July 31 this year. While the NSCN insists on its one-point agenda -- the unification of Naga-inhabited areas of the northeast -- the Group of Ministers argue that since the Nagas were never under one administrative area it was not practical to reunite them, or to redraw the region's boundary. The NSCN (IM) and their followers want a 'Greater Nagaland' to be created by slicing off four districts from Manipur, (Chandel, Senapati, Tamenglong and Ukhrul), two from Arunachal Pradesh (Tirap and Changlang), and large parts from Assam, including the areas inhabited by the Karbi tribe.
''Alternative Schooling'' in Nagaland Kohima | October 05, 2005
The State Mission Authority (SMA), under the Sarva Shiksha Abhijan (SSA) will implement the ''alternative schooling'' programme in Nagaland during the next academic year, with the involvement of 25 associations and NGOs. According to official sources here today, during 2005-2006 academic year, the programme would cover 35,113 children who do not go to school. Alternative schooling forms the basis upon which the Education Guarantee Scheme (EGS) and Alternative and Innovative Education (AIE) -- the two components of SSA framework are implemented. The two programmes also aim at providing accesss towards universalization of elementary education, free and compulsory elementary education to all children in the group of six to 14 years till 2010, which is a Constitutional directive.
Sources said, under EGS scheme, which is being implemented in the state for the first time, 5,113 ''out of school'' children would be covered in 125 centres. This programme would be implemented departmentally. AIE was successfully implemented by the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) during 2004-2005. It covered 1,024 villages and wards and out of the 19,428 enrolled children, 11,012 were admitted to formal schools. During 2005-2006, AIE is being implemented by 25 associations and NGOs spread across the state. In this connection, SMA, the sponsoring body, has drawn up a Memorendum of Understanding (MoU) with the implementing agencies, with time bound objective and target, sources added. UNI AS RH KLC1548
Suspected NSCN-IM cadres killed The Morung Express
Shillong, Oct 5 (MExn): Five suspected NSCN (IM) cadres were gunned down this morning by the Special Operation Team (SOT), Meghalaya Police at Mawlyngad village near Sohryngkham, East Khasi Hills district. According to Meghalaya Police, the incident occurred at around 6 am this morning, when the Police, acting on an intelligence input, intercepted the heavily armed militants proceeding to an ‘unknown destination’ in two separate vehicles. The police intercepted the militants at Mawlyngad village in Sohryngkham, a few kilometers away from Shillong. On being confronted, the militants suddenly opened fire on the Police team who retaliated the firing killing five, while about three cadres managed to escape, said the Police. Police recovered from the militants’ possession one AK-47 rifle, five Chinese grenades and one pistol. The Police also seized one of the vehicles (Tata Mobile jeep) in which the group of suspected militants were traveling in. A massive manhunt is on to nab the remaining militants who reportedly escaped. Denying the police statement, a highly placed source who had gone to examine the bodies told The Morung Express that the manner in which the bodies of the suspected NSCN (IM) cadres were lying indicated that they had been arrested, tortured and then beaten to death after which bullets were pumped into their bodies. "Their heads were battered and their intestines were lying on the ground. Their eyes were gouged out," the source said. Moreover, the ambushed vehicle bore no bullet marks, he added. The deceased have been identified as Chuba Ao, Nixon Shimray, Imsang Zeliang, Victor Hmar and Martin. Meanwhile, when contacted, Phungthing Shimrang, Convenor of the Ceasefire Monitoring Board, NSCN (IM) confirmed that Chuba, Imsang and Martin were NSCN cadres, while Nixon and Victor were civilians and worked as driver and handyman respectively. (inputs from NNN )
Fresh firing between NSCN factions The Morung Express News October 5 Mon: Fresh firing between NSCN factions has been reported of. A clash between the two splinter groups occurred at Lapalanpong, Tizit, Mon district in the early hours of the morning at around 4:30 am. Two NSCN (IM) cadres were reportedly killed in the battle while one NSCN (K) cadre was injured. The firing is said to have continued for three hours. Timely intervention by the 20 Assam Rifles averted any civilian casualty.
NSCN (IM) lambasts Meghalaya police Sangai Express By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Oct 6 : While describing as blatant lie and a concocted claim by the Meghalaya police in the killing five NSCN (IM) cadres in an encounter yesterday, the NSCN/GPRN contended that two of the victims were civilians. In a statement issued to the press, the outfit alleged that the five persons were tortured to death in the custody of the Meghalaya police. The NSCN/GPRN in gravest term condemned the heinous crime committed on three cadres and two innocent civilian by a special operation team of Meghalaya police at Mawlyngad village in Sohrynkham on october 5, said the statement.
Identifying the victims as Chuba Walling, Imsang, Mixson, martin and Victor, the NSCN said the five including the latter two who are informed to be civilians were apprehended and ‘inhumanely’ tortured to death. Issuing misleading information and attempting to corroborate the stage managed encounter by implicating the victims as bank robbers is paradoxically bereft of substantial evidences, charged the outfit.
It further maintained that the mortal remains of the victims bearing excessive deep blue and black scars and wounds all over the bodies is testimony enough of being put to severely tortured and put to death rather than being slain in encounter, if any. providing more details of intense torture, NSCN ridiculed the absence of even a single bullet penetra-tion mark on the vehicle body on which the five were travelling referring to the encounter theory presen-ted by the police. It also arised question on conducting post mortem without the presence of a magistrate as normal procedure necessitates. During the period of ceasefire between the NSCN and GoI more than 20 innocent NSCN cadres/officials and civilians have been killed in Meghalaya alone with authorities concerned citing encounter casualty or other allegations, recalled the statement and construed such pretexts with the agenda of eliminating its members, subdue to peace process and tarnish the image. Stating that NSCN is committed to the ceasefire ground rules and upholding social values by waging campaigns against anti-social elements, the outfit informed of taking serious note of unabated Indian State sponsored terrorism categorically commented thatGoI is answerable to its adverse policies before such conducts fracture all efforts to usher in peace.
It also appealed to the International human Rig-hts Commission to inter- vene in preventing human rights violation taking pla-ce in the region and sought wide condemnation by all human rights societies and peace loving people agai-nst atrocities committed upon innocent civilians by the Indian Army.
MHA for scrapping armed forces Act Rajnish Sharma New Delhi, October 6, 2005 The Union home ministry has endorsed the recommendation of the Justice Jeevan Reddy Committee to repeal the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). It has, however, strongly suggested that suitable amendments be made in the Unlawful Activities Act to provide immunity to security personnel involved in counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast. The ministry has conveyed its views to the Prime Minister’s Office, stating that some provisions of the AFPSA be retained in the Unlawful Activities Act as was done in the case of Pota. Highly-placed government sources said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh would soon discuss the issue with defence minister Pranab Mukherjee and law minister H.R. Bhardwaj. If the government decides to repeal AFSPA, the proposal will require Cabinet approval before it is placed in Parliament.
The government had constituted the five-member AFSPA review panel in November last year in the wake of large-scale protests following the killing of Manorama Devi by Assam Rifles personnel in Manipur. The Act is currently in force in Manipur, Assam and Nagaland. During a meeting with demonstrators, the PM had stressed on the need to give the Act a more “humane face”. The home ministry held detailed discussions with chief ministers, senior political leaders and voluntary organisations from the Northeast after the committee submitted its report a few months ago. The majority view, the ministry officials said, was that the Act be scrapped. “There was a strong feeling among the people from the region that the Act was discriminatory. But they agreed that any stringent law being used by security forces in other parts of the country should be extended to the Northeast also,” a senior ministry official said. The home ministry has also argued that if amendments are made in the Unlawful Activities Act on repeal of AFSPA, it can be used effectively even in Naxal-affected areas. As of now, a region has to be declared a disturbed area for AFSPA to be enforced there.
Justice Sema to grace seminar on Customary Laws The Morung Express KOHIMA, OCT 5 (MExN): Senior Judge in the Supreme Court, Justice HK Sema will be the Chief Guest during the inaugural session of a seminar on Customary Laws with special reference to their land holding system which will be held at the Imagine Nagaland Hall, Administrative Training Institute (ATI) Kohima on October 7. Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio will be the Guest of Honour. The Chief Justice of the Guwahati High Court will deliver the keynote speech while Parliamentary Secretary, Yitachu will present the Presidential address.
The technical session will be followed by valedictory session at 2:30 pm. Chief Secretary of Nagaland, P. Talitemjen Ao will deliver the valedictory speech while Director LRI, Guwahati High Court Dr. J Boroah will propose the vote of thanks. The programme is being organised by the Law Research Institute, Eastern Region, Guwahati High Court, and sponsored by the North Eastern Council Shillong.
Legal luminary: A brief profile Born on 01.06.1943. Did his graduation from St. Joseph College Darjeeling in the year 1967. Passed his LLB Examination from Govt.Law College, Bombay in 1970. Joined the Bar Council of Assam and Nagaland in 1971. Appointed as Junior Government Advocate, Nagaland in 1971 and continued in the same post up to 28.02.1975. In March 1975, started practice in the High Court as private practitioner. Appointed Assistant Advocate General, Nagaland from 16.11.1985. Appointed Judge in the Guwahati High Court on 24.05.1989. Appointed Acting Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court with effect from 05.04.2001. Transferred to High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and took oath on 07.06.2001 as Judge High Court of Jammu and Kashmir. Appointed Acting Chief Justice of High Court of Jammu and Kashmir with effect from 23.08.2001. Appointed Chief Justice of High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and took oath on 12.09.2001. Elevated as Judge of the Supreme Court of India on 9th April, 2002 and due to retire on 01.06.2008
PERSPECTIVE POLICY/DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS, PEOPLE AND HUMAN INTEREST PERSPECTIVE Integration an ongoing process TOP DRAW V. Vashum
Integration is not a one day event but an ongoing management process in every area of Naga community life. The emotional and political passion guided by a strong teaching of God’s principles are the everlasting force in making Naga to be truly integrated as one people in remaking a dignified nation. Integration processes will help us to understand how far we have gone as one united people in forming a nation. Look at Jewish people who are the best examples for Nagas. Integration as Jewish people suffered throughout the history under different kings and nations. Even today, Jewish could maintain their own culture distinctively through the laws and promises of God even though they lived in different countries. Likewise, Naga as one people needs continuous management of our social, political and cultural life. We need to simplify and refine our values, strong belief, mindset and nurturing our political passion by giving a community integrated education in every family, church, school, and community organization at large. Therefore, I see a higher perspective on our integration with the basic greater parents’ initiatives for children in building Christian values and characters. If not, many social problems will become the issues for our integration amongst ourselves with the failure of Christian homes in Nagaland.
Integration is not only the responsibility of NSF or Naga HOHO but the commitment and participation voluntarily from every Naga is essential and it can make a significant development if we have actions plans in every level of organization and community. Most importantly, the willingness of the hearts from every Naga to share with one another their love will instill the true Nagaism in the 21th century. In the process of integration, there will not be a place for selfishness, family background, nepotism, corruption and extremism but it will be totally based on merit, equality and justice. In this way, Naga will able to continue building an inclusive and gracious community.
To build an integrated society, it needs a clear laws and refined cultural management which will direct and monitor the community administration for fair treatment to every Naga and foreigners who reside in Nagaland on Permanent Resident Card (under foreign acts). As the people get seriousness of integration, they will work for its success more than our expectations. However, Naga HOHO or NSF may remain a guardian of the integration for its direction, implementation and organizing its integrated programs, activities, events, projects and awards. There will be many generous donors and patrons for the said programs for it is a worthy cause in building a united people. We will also see more colleges and schools taking more responsibilities for the integrated vision to be fulfilled in their respective positions and capacities.
Naga need brainy men and women to lead us with integrity in making an integrated community at this point of time. The kind of collegiate leadership can work beyond physical territory as a team by embracing the same passion and vision for our future generation. Sometimes, they will not be popular as they will face different challenges by giving unpopular decision at that particular time. But that will show that they are true leaders for Naga. Leaders sometimes make mistakes but we can not forget them because they have made many good contribution towards our people. However, their sacrifice will pave the way for greater integration. Few Naga MLAs are concerned for their positions in Manipur in the recent saga of integration. But integration will create better positions for us to grow our leadership to higher level. Our behavior will show our commitment to Naga integration. And we must know that we are making a foundational history, therefore, a strong sense of conviction to be a part of history for even few months of resignation from the positions endorsed through the power of public electorate will make a landmark for Naga. When the common Nagas become more mature, responsible, sensible and intelligent, our process of integration as one people will be a safer and easier game for the leadership to play a key roles for the total integrated nation we desire. In the process of integration, there will be few intruders who oppose such vision and programs due to their short-sightedness and narrow political interest for power.
Recent years, when US shot down the Chinese aircraft in the southern China Sea by telling Chinese that it was mistaken while having routine military air exercise. It created a huge indignation and humiliation against Chinese by US. In response to this humiliating behavior of US, Chinese University students unanimously resolved to study double hours in order to compete against US in order to safeguard their political rights for the future of Chinese. Likewise, our Naga young people need to cultivate this kind of positive competitive spirit by working hard and learning new knowledge and that will be the only vehicle for Naga to transport us into a new future as integrated people. Our education system and the value of having a good Christian home is the foundation that will support to build an integrated Naga community.
Another example, look into Japanese society, there is integrated homogenous people and whose commitment and united effort could produce many brands of products in the international markets today. They are well organized and culture people as one Japanese. Their food restaurants in Singapore and in US are outstanding in their products and services. With a strong home backing, Japanese could penetrate into different cultures and countries. But at home, they have a good democracy under brainy leadership. Therefore, our integration as one people depends entirely on the intelligent and hard working attitude of the whole the Naga people. Actually, our competition within the Naga community must be considered as positive motivational force in order to upgrade our competency and standard in order to face the greater global challenges. In this way, we need to have broader perspective and deeper sense of interpretation of our integration. And we need to accept one another by the principles of tolerance and pluralism in order to give opportunity for creativity, innovation and intensive knowledge based society. To allow all these fulfill, we must allow open discussion and freedom of _expression to create political strategic planning and also excellent leadership in stead of using tribal gun power and any kind of intimidation behind in the scene that only lead us into dark side and loss our future in the hand of enemy. (The writer is a social worker based in Singapore)
NSF taking on issues up-front W. H. Maring The Morung Express
It’s a sad, sad thing that a press release of the caliber that badly exposed ones ignorance to issues like a wrong piece at wrong place in jigsaw puzzle has been issued in the name of a Naga youth (Refer "Wanted-an NSF for Students"/Nagaland Page/27th Sept 2005). Before delving deeper into the matter, I would like to express my doubtfulness on the identity of the sender (Kedolhoubi Angami). The statement cannot be from a Naga as given in the paper. If so he is probably new to Naga issue in general and the NSF’s affairs in particular who is just trying to act smart. Better don’t act smart with your limited knowledge on Naga issues and NSF’s affairs please.
As a concerned Naga and believer of NSF as an apex Naga Students body shouldering great responsibility not only of students’ but also of the Nagas, I am not happy with the criticism, which is totally negative. Presuming that the sender is a Naga (as mentioned in the paper), I for one would like to make the following statement that it’s always better not to have reservation with what tone and manner resentments have to be ventilated. To the NSF, I believe that the interest of the Nagas is higher than that of the officer/individual. Therefore, probably the NSF had no decency or politeness in telling truths in the best interest of the land no matter how bitter it could be to some one. I just don’t understand why a Naga had to make protective statement for the Governor when it is crystal clear of his negligence on issues confronting the Naga society? Or what magnificent things do you think has he done as the head of the state for the society? Or are you impressed with his many good things, which overweighed bad things done for the society? If not for good things what is the Governor being assigned for? When he has been assigned for delivering good things, the question of he delivering good things does not arise. If not for unwillingness to exhume bad memories on the Governor, I also have an archive to rummage for facts. Well why not retrospect together the role played by the Governor that clearly throws his true façade during the students’ upheaval against the appointment of G.D Sharma for Vice Chancellor? Can you remember/agree that he was not the choice of the Nagas in general? When the NSF had approached the Governor (the Chief Rector of the Nagaland University) for his intervention, do you know what was his cooperation towards the NSF? Had he been a responsible and concerned head of the State he could have felt the sentiments of the students’ community who desperately fought for removal of G.D Sharma from the post of Vice Chancellor. Let us also not forget how the University Teachers and students are fighting against G.D Sharma’s administration. How anomalies are being practiced and being tugged under rugs, and how G.D Sharma was denying justice to students and Teachers are the clear witnesses of how judicious is GD Sharma, the protected child of the Governor. Your concept "master cannot commit mistake" is a cliché. Now, the concept acts towards subduing believers of the concept. If you are so adamant and serious about your concept better start worshiping the Nagaland Governor for being the head of the State and be happy. But the younger generation (including me) and I believe the NSF also will not subscribe such concept.
On NPSC issue, why didn’t you take little more trouble to ventilate your unhappiness towards the NSF rather than keeping it to yourself that may burn you alive? Keep it what you have but let me tell you one truth apart from many: you are the only one who is against the NSF’s involvement in the NPSC issue while the whole of the Naga society appreciates its involvement. Can’t we appreciate NSF involvement due to which many demands of the students’ community could be some how achieved if not all? Why cannot we learn how to appreciate others good works? I also may have collision of ideas with the NSF on many issues but lets not forget that there are different approaches to tackling issues. We just can’t be too pessimist and underrating if our ideas are not subscribed. What you think is that let the bureaucrats play their own games and the NSF keeps mum. That is not possible to the NSF in particular and the Nagas in general. No matter what, the NSF should not allow the bureaucrats to take future of younger generations in their own hands.
Though I myself do not appreciate reacting or countering point by point on your destructive press release, I feel necessary this time. Your criticism to the NSF itself shows about your heartlessness and lack of concern for the future generation. When the world is on fire in many places on land, your criticism on the NSF’s involvement in the border issue is very unfortunate. No doubt that your mental caliber compelled you to think that NSF should not interfere in the border issue but it is the acceptance of the Nagas in general that the NGO like the NSF should take up issues like this by being in the forefront or frontline. You also should know how many of our leaders/seniors were arrested, detained and harassed by the Assam Police on border issue. And do you think that was not our war? Else whose war do you think the NSF is fighting for?
On the economic blockade which was initiated by the ANSAM and latter on intensified by the NSF is concerned, I feel that the genesis traces back to the denial of giving peace a chance in the Naga areas especially in the south where the meiteis desired chaos and confusion, harassment and killing to prevail over the Naga areas. To me it was a revolution against dictation by meitei majority Manipur Govt. upon the Nagas in particular and the tribal people in general. To me it was a manifestation of impending unhappiness of the Nagas over evil designs of the Manipur Govt. to scuttle Nagas aspiration of living under one administrative umbrella. I do not think that the NSF officials are claiming themselves as champion in students’ issues. At the same time we also cannot say that the Federation is neglecting students’ issues. Can you tell the people what students’ related issues have the NSF being found neglecting? Are not the serious attempts of stream lining the present education system a students issue? Is it not University issues related with students’ welfare? Is it not superanuation and age tempering students’ issue? Is not bogus appointment a students’ issue? Is it not NPSC issue related with students’ welfare? Is it not the border issue haunting you and me and the future generations? Whether the NSF could successfully pressurized the Government or concerned authority in materializing the demand, the blame that the NSF is not concerned for students’ welfare therefore the need for another NSF for students is not acceptable at any cost. What grudges do you have over the NSF officials, which have made you a staunch rival of the NSF? Anyway, I appreciate your courage for open criticism except for your lack of positive outlook and constructiveness. To extend a piece of mind like the NSF had done to the head of the State; child, grow up to the reality that shows where you will be seen some year from now with such mentality and attitude that the NSF should stay away from those issues you mentioned that seriously confront us. (The writer is the Speaker, NSF)
Only plebiscite can resolve Manipur’s problem’ The Imphal Free Press
IMPHAL, Oct 5: A public meeting on the topic “Manipur-India muknabagee wapham ashi wakheibada plebiscite toupham thok-i” was held today at the Moirang Bazar. Jointly organised by ANUL, MGSIMPAL, TIMPAL, WDO and YDO, the public meeting adopted three resolutions.
Firstly it was resolved that the conflict between Manipur and India can be resolved peacefully without blood shed only by holding plebiscite. Secondly, the said plebiscite should be hold under the supervision of the United Nations and thirdly, to inform the UN and government of India about the above resolutions at the earliest. Salam Tomba, retd. VP, CI College Bishnupur; Lourembam Nganbi Devi, president Apunba Nupi Lup; T Bijoy, social worker; K Nanda, social worker; H Nayani Devi, VP Apunba Nupi Lup; and L Ibetombi Devi, president TIMPAL were the chief guest, president and guests of honour respectively.
Addressing the large gathering, the chief guest asked, “On what ground is the government of India refusing the demand for plebiscite proposed as a condition for holding talks by one of the oldest insurgent groups of Manipur?” He continued that in the plebiscite it is neither the insurgent outfit nor the government of India that will decide, but it will be the people of Manipur who will decide their fate and that the aspiration of people should be respected.
Speaking as a special invitee, RK Ranendrajit, editor Freedom, said that there is nothing unconstitutional about plebiscite and that it is only a simple tool wherein the people have two options “to continue as slaves or to become free and stay as friend with India”. He asserted that the people of Manipur are not looking for peace but they are looking for the truth and “plebiscite will be the vote for truth”.
Maintaining that war is a means to get peace, he said that the time has come to start the war of truth. He stated that revolution is the only answer to the chaos prevailing in Manipur and this revolution should be based on truth. He observed that the revolution of truth must start in each person from within.
Echoing similar feelings, Y Rupachandra, associate editor, ISTV, said, “It is not possible to usher a revolution by some people by merely having sophisticated arms. It is only possible when the collective force of people stand as a united force.”
Observing that the people is the supreme, he said that those who are working in the interest of the people – government, organisations, NGOs – should “find out what the people want and do what people want”. He said that plebiscite will be a fight of 24 lakhs against 1 billion and urged the people to leave behind narrow self-centred thinking. Y Devdutta, president United People’s Front, spoke on the need to stop ignoring the insurgent movement in the state. He said, “The insurgent movement should be brought to an end and if plebiscite is the deciding factor, it should be allowed.”
The meeting was well attended by students and members of different organisations in the Moirang area.

Indo-Myanmar Army dialogue to be held at Kalewa The Imphal Free Press
Moreh, Oct 5: Top level Army officials of India and Myanmar are holding a friendship dialogue at Kalewa, Myanmar from October 5 to 7. A six member Indian Army delegation led by Major General A Samant left Moreh yesterday to take part in the dialogue. The scheduled friendship dialogue will be held at Kalewa, Myanmar at five different venues till October 7, according to a source. Other members of the Indian delegation were Brigadier RA Lewis, Col KS Kadian, Col Dev, Col Sharma and Brigadier Baba.
The Myanmares delegation includes Brigadier Tin Maung ohn, Col. Zaw Win, Col. Tun Nyo, Col. Min Swe, Lt Col. Min Htein, Lt Col. Soe Zaw, Lt Col. Koko Naing and Lt Col. Aung Zin Oo, the source added.
India to hold talks with Assam's rebel ULFA on Oct.25-26 New Delhi/Guwahati, Oct.5 (ANI): The Government of India has agreed to hold peace talks with Assam's rebel United Liberation Front of Ahom (ULFA) on October 25 and 26. Noted Assamese literateur and Jnanpith Award winner Indira Goswami and noted footballer of yesteryears Rebati Phukan, who are faciliting the talks with ULFA, met National Security Adviser M K Narayanan on Tuesday evening and finalised the modalities for the initial round of talks. Talking to reporters after a 25-minute meeting with Narayanan, Goswami confirmed the dates of the talks. "The talks will be held between nine-member People's Consultative Group (PCG) nominated by ULFA and top Central government officials," Goswami said. The PCG will be assisted in their deliberations by Goswami and Phukan.
"We had also discussed the issue of Army operations against ULFA in Assam and the Centre has assured restrained operations. The government has assured to take measures to remove all hurdles to make peace talks a success," Goswami said. PCG would hold preliminary discussions to work out the modalities leading to formal declaration of cease-fire by both sides. Last Friday, the ULFA had sent a letter to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) expressing its willingness to enter into peace talks after the Army withdrew its operations against the proscribed outfit in Dibru Saikhowa reserve forest of Upper Assam.
The letter contained the names and addresses Goswami and Phukan and nine-member PCG.
ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa on September 8 nominated this group of public representatives to initiate preliminary negotiations with the Centre. In an e-mail sent to mediapersons, Rajkhowa said the peace team includes editor of local vernacular daily Aji and rights activist -Ajit Bhuyan, veteran journalist and editor of vernacular daily Pratidin - Hyder Hussain, engineer Mukul Mahanta, lawyer Arup Borbora, Dr Brajen Gogoi, advisor to Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chhatra Parishad Dilip Patgiri, journalist Diganta Konwar, social worker Hiranya Saikia, and human rights activist Lachit Bordoloi. Goswami would act as facilitators for the talks with the Centre, Rajkowa had said. However, she declined to divulge details about the contents of the letter, saying peace initiative has reached a "crucial stage" and "we all must be very careful." Sources close to ULFA said the ULFA Chairman, in his letter, said the outfit was ready for talks prior to which PCG will hold talks. The ULFA had earlier threatened to withdraw from the peace process unless the Army operation was not suspended. The ULFA is a revolutionary political organisation created on the lawns of the historic Rang Ghar of Sibsagar on April 7, 1979. Its professed aim has been to liberate Assam, (a land of 78,529 square kilometres), through armed national liberation struggle from the clutches of what it termed the illegal occupation by India and to establish a sovereign Independent Assam.
According to the ULFA, it represents not only the Assamese nation but also the entire independent minded struggling peoples, irrespective of different race-tribe-caste-religion and nationality of Assam. (ANI)
“Secret killings should be discussed during ULFA-Centre talks” NET News Network Guwahati, Oct 6: In the wake of ensuing ULFA-Centre peace talks, Bhaskar Bora, brother of an expired ULFA cadre today urged the Peoples Consultative Group (PCG) to raise the issue of secret killings before the Centre and also reiterated that it would be wrong to blame Prafulla Mahanta alone for the secret killings because the seeds were sown during the regime of Congress Chief Minister Hiteswar Saikia. Bhaskar, Brother of ULFA cadre Javed alias Partha Pratim Bora and elder son of former Assam CM Nibaron Bora also flayed all the political parties including MASS for politicizing the killings for their vested interest. “Secret Killings started way back in 1991 during the tenure of Hiteswar Saikia though it became more evident under Prafulla Mahanta”, said Bora while briefing the media today. Bora also asserted that intelligence group RAW has also played a pivotal role in this killings. Bora also urged the ULFA C-in-C Paresh Barua and Arabinda Rajkhowa to provide the death clarification of the deceased Javed Bora who is said to have joined the outfit in 1987.
Terming the enquiry Commissions baseless, Bora alleged that it is just a way to make fool out of public. “ We are not expecting any sort of justice but at least they can provide us the skeleton of my brother”, said an emotional Bora. Bora also informed that they have been misled for the last few years about the existence of his brother and also had to undergo various hardships during this period. He also demanded the chronological list of all the ULFA cadre slained, taking 1991 as the base year.