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01/19/2006: "Burma and India step up fight against Naga rebelsT.Siamchinthang"

Burma and India step up fight against Naga rebelsT.Siamchinthang - Asian Tribune -
Lamka/Moreh, 19 January, (Asiantribune.com): The Burmese and Indian armies have started using armed helicopters against National Socialist Council of Nagaland - Khaplang rebels in Burma.

The move marks a stepping up of a new campaign against the NSCNK, a rebel group fighting for greater independence from India and Burma believed to have several camps in Burma's Sagaing Division.

The Burmese and Indian armies launched massive joint operations against the group last week resulting in heavy casualties. Reports have said both Burmese troops and Naga rebels have been killed with some placing the death toll at 50.

Sources in India's Ministry of Defense told "Asian Tribune" helicopter fire has caused serious injuries among rebels hiding in Burma's dense jungles.

The latest campaign against the rebels ended four months of silence from the armies after troops targeted rebel camps in areas adjoining the Tirap and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh in India's Northeast

Nagaland Govt for extension of ceasefire Source: The Sangai Express
Kohima, January 18: A Nagaland Government-constituted peace forum today appealed to both the Centre and NSCN (I-M) to extend the ceasefire which expires this month end and expedite peace talks for finding a lasting settlement to the vexed political problem at the earliest.

A joint meeting of the Consultative Committee on Peace and Democratic Alliance of Nagaland Sub-committee on Peace held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio reviewed situation in the State and advocated extension of ceasefire, official sources said here.

The meeting also resolved to dissolve the present DAN Sub-committee on Peace and constitute a Joint Legislative Forum on Peace Affairs in the State, the sources said.

The meeting appreciated the Assembly Speaker's initiative in organising a meeting of all legislators to discuss the on-going peace process in the State.

The Opposition Congress has been demanding that the Government-constituted peace forum should take Opposition parties into confidence in dealing with issues like peace and political problems.

The sources said the meeting appreciated the role of Churches, NGOs and Naga civil society organisations in ensuring peace and called upon all overground and underground organisations to desist from issuing provocative statements. PTI
NSCN-IM violating ceasefire, says Khaplang faction
Guwahati | January 19, 2006 12:15:06 PM IST Webindia

An influential tribal separatist group in Nagaland has urged the central government to help prevent violation of ceasefire rules by its rival faction. A three-member team of the S.S. Khaplang faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-K) Wednesday held a meeting in New Delhi with senior home ministry officials to say that the NSCN-IM group, led by Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah, must observe ceasefire ground rules.
"We have asked the home ministry officials to ensure that the ceasefire ground rules are strictly adhered to by cadres of the IM group," senior NSCN-K leader C. Singson told IANS over the phone from New Delhi on Thursday. "In the last one year, there were about eight to nine times when IM cadres were involved in attacking one of our designated camps."
The NSCN-IM, however, denies the charges of any ceasefire violations. The meeting between the NSCN-K and home ministry bureaucrats was also attended by senior army officials, Nagaland's police chief, the state's home commissioner, besides Lt. Gen. (Retd) Ramesh Kulkarni, chairperson of the Ceasefire Supervisory Board. "We were assured that effective steps would be taken by security forces not to allow IM cadres to be near our designated camps," said Singson, the NSCN-K's self-styled external affairs minister who led the rebels in the talks.
"Whosoever violates the ceasefire ground rules would be dealt with severely is what we were assured."
The two NSCN factions are engaged in a bitter fratricidal fight for territorial supremacy. Both the groups are operating separate ceasefires with New Delhi - the NSCN-IM entering into a ceasefire in 1997 and the NSCN-K in 2001. The Indian government is currently holding talks with the NSCN-IM although formal negotiations with the NSCN-K are yet to begin.
"The home ministry team insisted we begin talks, but we told them to first settle the issue with the IM group. Only then would we sit for formal talks with the Indian government," Singson said. NSCN-K leaders wanted a new chairperson of the Ceasefire Supervisory Board in place of Lt. Gen. Kulkarni. "We said we don't want Kulkarni as the chairman and the home ministry team agreed in principle to replace him with someone else who is acceptable to us," the rebel leader said. (IANS)
Naga MPs, MLAs in Manipur served with legal notice
A LOCAL NGO in Manipur going by the name of the ‘All India Kangla Pakhangba Temple Development Society (Kangla Inat Phambei)’ has reportedly served legal notice to the 11 Naga MLAs and the two MPs who appended their signatures to the demand to integrate all Naga inhabited areas.
According to a January 16 news report carried by the Imphal based The Sangai Express, Advocate S Sarat Singh served the legal notice on behalf of the Society to Rajya Sabha MP Rishang Keishing, Lok Sabha MP Mani Charanamei, MLA (Tengnoupal) DK Korungthang, MLA (Chandel) BD Behring, MLA (Phungyar) Wungnaoshang Keishing, MLA (Ukhrul) D Sheiza) MLA (Chingai) A Aza, MLA (Karong) PS Henry Paotei, MLA (Mao) RK Thekho, MLA (Tadubi) Francis Ngajokpa, MLA (Tamei) Z Mangaibou, MLA (Nungba) Gaikhangam and MLA (Tamenglong) Samuel Jendai.
The legal notice contended that the boundary of Manipur was neither demarcated by India nor by Manipuris/Meiteis.
“It was demarcated by the Treaty of Yandaboo executed in 1826 between the Government of Burma/Myanmar and Government of United Kingdom. So it an international treaty and not a private agreement which can be invalidated neither by the MPs and the MLAs nor by India Government but except by the competent party”, the news report quoted the litigants as stated in the legal notice.
Pointing out that the 13 Naga MPs and MLAs have taken oath for protection of law and order, peace and tranquility of the State as well as to maintain the State boundary and custom and usages of the people of Manipur, the legal notice further contended that their subscription of signatures was illegal, unconstitutional, unnatural and arbitrary in nature causing social chaos demoralizing the people apart from causing disintegration of the social fabrics of Manipur.
Nagas to be sent to Asian countries to learn languages
Kohima (MExN): If the Government of Nagaland have its way as being planned, scores of Naga students will soon have the opportunity to learn Chinese and other South East Asian languages, which in return set an opportunity to serve in South East Asian countries.
The Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has confirmed this initiative to send Naga students to the South East Asian countries.
“We are on the process of making facilities for learning Chinese and other South East Asian languages, so that our educated youth will become more exportable,” Rio said on the sideline of attending a function, ‘A dialogue on the North East as a regional market and economic zone- Going beyond the Look East Policy’ where dignitaries from the ASEAN Dialogue Society delivered wide ranging perspectives on the potential of the North East region as a major economic zone, on Wednesday in Kohima.
Surin Pitsuwan, former Foreign Minister of Thailand, had given an assurance to make that connection and enable Naga students to study languages of neighboring South East Asian countries.
The Chief Minister welcomed the assurance given by Surin adding “It is high time that we put into practice.”
Rio averred that Nagaland being a state with a large number of educated and English speaking youths who are eager to venture outside, the important area of advantage could be that of services in terms of education and health care facilities, starting from schools and colleges to technical education and referral hospitals.
Entrepreneurs Associate’s (EA) co-ordinator Neichute Duolo said Nagaland- with English as its official language among the states in India entails huge potential for thousands of young Naga graduates to teach English across the length and breadth of ASEAN nations.
“Understandably, it will be more cost effective for ASEAN economies to hire skilled Naga English teachers rather than turn to Australia, Europe or the Americas,” he said adding that Nagaland can become the centre for English language learning for ASEAN economies given the close cultural and ethnic affinity shared with them. The ASEAN Dialogue Society also expressed willingness to extend assistance to students from Nagaland interested in learning languages of countries in South East Asia.
It may be mentioned that a delegation from the ASEAN Dialogue Society comprising of 10 members arrived yesterday and held wide ranging discussions with the Nagaland Government and NGOs to further the initiative of ASEAN for socio-economic cooperation.
(Inputs from DIPR)
Women protest handing over of 5 persons to Nagaland New Kerala Imphal: Women representatives of Saiton, Bishenpur district, yesterday called upon Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh over the issue of the state government handing over five persons to Nagaland Government on January 16.

The persons were suspected to be involved in the killing of a driver from Nagaland. Officials said today the chief minister assured the women delegation that the five persons would be brought back on January 24. The women representatives alleged that the main culprit was not handed over to Nagaland but only innocents, picked up for interrogation, were handed over.
The officials added that the women have agreed not to resort to any agitation till January 24.
North East land of trade opportunities: Rio New Kerala
Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has said there is possibility of north east turning into a land of opportunities and it is emerging as the most viable land trade route between the fast growing economies of India and south east Asia. Addressing a seminar on ''north-east as a regional market and econimic zone : going beyond the look east policy'' here yesterday Mr Rio expressed hope that the north east region, endowed with rich natural resources may one day dominate the world economy. He felt that India should take the initial advantages before it is wrested by others.

He said definite action plans should be adopted urgently for promoting north east India as the preferred trade road between Indian and the Asean countries. He said the region has long been neglected due to historical and geographical factors and now the Centre should concentrate and make intensive investment in developing the infrastructure for transport and communication in the north east region to promote trade through the region.
The chief minister said investment in the region should focus on areas where there is comparative advantages. ''To open up closer socio-economic ties with Myanmar and other south east Asian countries, there is an imperative need to create conducive political and social climate.'' He said economic development cannot be held hostage to political struggles and insurgency.
Fourth point in peace talks surfaces
UKHRUL, Jan 18 (MExN): When the Centre and the NSCN (IM) first entered into an agreement to cease hostilities, three points were decided upon—that the talks would be unconditional in nature, held in the highest level and that the parleys would be conducted in a third country. Adding a new dimension to the peace process, NSCN (IM) officials today said that the fourth condition which was initially proposed by them had to come into effect. The fourth proposal made by the outfit was that a third ‘party’ would stand as ‘witnesses to the talks. The Centre had at that time said it would be too premature to carry out such an action.
NSCN Deputy Kilo Kilonser V Horam and Chief of Army Staff, H S Ramson, speaking during the occasion of ‘United Prayer Week for Peaceful Political Solution’ held at Ukhrul’s Town Hall raised the issue. Horam said India is in a fix at the moment. “If India accepts our proposals, then there are complications for them. However, if they reject our proposals, India knows we will stop being a party to the ceasefire,” he said.
This, the NSCN leader said, was the genesis of the necessity to involve “third party mediation.” Ramson, the ‘Longvibu’ of the separatist outfit echoed along the same lines and said, “We have to understand India’s problems and vice-versa.” We are on a journey of truth; let us work towards achieving this goal, he told pastors, church leaders and other elders.
Earlier, while talking to The Morung Express, Horam said that for extension of the ceasefire, the decks were clear. “If I have to read from the sky, the sky is clear.” He said the ceasefire would crumble only if something “tragic occurs.” The third party’s intervention is crucial before a deadlock in the talks arises, he said. Giving his definition of ‘interim solution,’ he explained that if such a development were to solidify, it would be based on a phase-wise progress of events towards a final end with scope within a specific time-frame. “The interim solution may be termed as an implementation period,” he said.
Further, it was stated that both ‘nations’ would have to be recognized as separate identities and that a pattern of relationship would be worked out through negotiations
Naga Hoho should be transparent & build confidence KSU
• Sir-Transparency in day to day affairs of the Naga Hoho is required at this critical juncture. The Naga people in Myanmar (Burma) are facing a lot of problems because of Myanmar Armies operation against the Nagas there. In the meantime, the ongoing peace process between the Government of India and Nagas is under dark clouds. It is the bounded duty of the Naga Hoho to activate its functions in this critical situation.
The Naga Hoho is the apex body of all Nagas living in Myanmar (Burma) Assam, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh states in India. The Naga Hoho is not only the apex body of Nagaland State but for all Nagas. Hence this apex body has a great task ahead to see that the welfare, upliftment and the rights of the Naga people are is not jeopardized.
The Naga Hoho has a vital role to play both in Myanmar and India, so that the Naga people are safe from human rights violations. Besides this Naga Hoho should build confidence between the Government of India and Nagas on this ongoing peace process.
However, this apex body is weakened because of its President, Mr. Horangse Sangtam, who became a controversial president of the Naga Hoho. The following Naga Major Tribes such as, (1) Konyak, (2) Chang, (3) Phom, (4) Sangtam, (5) Yimchunger, (6) Khiamnyugam and (7) Lotha has already declared that as long as the controversial President Mr. Horangse Sangtam holds the office they will not participate in Naga Hoho.
It is a serious matter and this has already weakened the Naga Hoho. On the other hand, Mr. Horangse Sangtam, the present President of Naga Hoho wants to hold the office by hook or by crook. Since he was expelled by his own tribe for 3 (three) years and the above 7 (seven) Naga Tribes are not going to participate in the Naga Hoho as long as he holds the office, it is advisable or better to resign from the post in order to save the Naga Hoho before it is too late.
I am afraid if the present trend continuous then definitely the Naga Hoho may not be able to function in the days to come. Let us save the Naga Hoho. Long live Naga Hoho.
Z. Dimedzorie Nagarjan, Dimapur
Good news for Naga students wishing to learn South East Asian languages Kuknalim.com
KOHIMA, Jan 18: ASEAN Dialogue Society has said that it is wiling to take an initiative in extending help to students from Nagaland State for learning languages of South East Asian nations. The assurance was given by Mr. Surin Pitsuwan, Former Foreign Minister of Thailand, one of the members of the delegation of ASEAN Dialogue Society at a seminar at Kohima today. He was responding to Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio’s request for sending students to study languages of the South Asian nations.

Mr Surin, who is also a sitting member of Parliament in Thailand said learning and knowing one’s language is one of the steps towards bringing people together in the region. He said ASEAN Dialogue Society has been making efforts to push forward the initiatives of the ASEAN to fulfil the dreams of bringing the region more closer in socio-economic front. He believes that common benefit, prosperity, integration could be achieved only through human bond and understanding of each other.

Referring to India’s look East policy, Mr Surin said North Eastern States of India holds key to open a new chapter of connecting India with South East Asian nations and therefore he called upon the people of the region to explore where their potential lies and how to utilise it. He also stressed the need to ensure peace, security and confidence to make their region an investment friendly region.
A delegation of ASEAN Dialogue Society comprising of 10 members arrived yesterday and held wide ranging discussions with the State Government and NGOs to further the initiative of ASEAN for socio-economic cooperation. (Chuba Walling, DIPR)
Look beyond NE: Thai ex-foreign Minister
Former Foreign Minister of Thailand Surin Pitsuwan seen here speaking at the ‘Look East Policy’ dialogue held at Kohima. (MExPiX) Sano Meru January 18
KOHIMA (MExN): A dialogue on the North East as a regional market and economic Zone “Going beyond the Look East Policy”, was held today at the Zonal Hall with a group of visiting dignitaries from the Asian Dialogue Society with Surin Pitsuwan, former Foreign Minister of Thailand, sharing his perspective on the Look East Policy. The dialogue session was organized by the Centre of North East Studies and Policy Research, New Delhi, with the support from DONER, Government of India.
Surin Pitsuwan, former Foreign Minister of Thailand, delivering the keynote address, exhorted Nagaland to go beyond the Look East Policy by creating a ground and form relations with neighboring states and countries, which he said was most important for proper understanding on each others’ diversity and problems. He also called upon the people to be aware of the fact that integration, although beneficial, also has its own problems as each country may have its own unique problems, most common of all human trafficking, drug problems, political conflict and refugees in search of better economic opportunities in other neighboring states which might create problems for countries to be happy together as one. He called upon the state to be more open-minded to the existing problems faced by the rest, as this understanding and awareness would be vital in the process of integration.
He also highlighted the vast potentials of the NE region in natural and human resources, and appealed to the region to cooperate together as one, stressing that it would add to its attractiveness and provide more opportunities for the region. Pitsuwan also encouraged the Nagas that Thailand would warmly welcome Naga English scholars to contribute to their country which would be a tremendous opportunity for Naga youths to extend their horizon.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed hope that the deliberations would result in the formulation of concrete policies and action-plans to develop North East region as a regional market and feasible economic zone. Stressing on the fact, he said that it was high time for Nagaland to start promoting its export with the ‘Look North East Policy’ creating possibilities on turning the region as a land of opportunities. “Our vision should aim at developing our exports, not only to ASEAN countries, but also to mainland India and other parts of the globe” he said, and that there was a growing realization among the learned, younger generation on the process of economic developments and liberation. He cautioned against becoming a hostage to political struggles. Rio also spoke on the need for India to take initiative to create conducive political and social climate in relation to Myanmar by creating appropriate foreign policy with it and other ASEAN countries to be designed in such a way as to create people-to-people contact with those living at either side of the border, including social and cultural exchanges.
“We should take advantage on the fact that the people living in either side of the border are the same ethnic group , as the international boundaries follow only the natural watershed and is not based on ethnic or Nationalistic lines” he said. He further said that India should also take initiative in easing the process of issuing travel documents for maximum trade opportunities to be exploited which was vital for business people and entrepreneurs to travel freely between various countries in order to explore export potentials. He appealed for serious-mindedness in building up roads, rails, airports, IT & telecom, power, tourism, industrial and exports infrastructures in the North East Region, considering that socio-political situations including India’s economy and technology available, is different from what was half a century ago. It is highly possible for India to concentrate and make intensive investment in developing infrastructure for transport and communication in the region to enable and induce trade through the region, he said.
He also spoke on the Nagas’ mastery over the English language which would enable them to provide services in terms of education and health care facilities to neighboring countries and also in the process, learn other foreign languages, so that educated youths would become more exportable.
Earlier in the programme Lalhuma, Additional Secretary & Development Commissioner chaired the occasion and also delivered the opening address. Sanjoy Hazarika, Managing Trustee CNE-S, New Delhi also echoed the same perspective as Pitsuwan’s on the potential of NE region as an economic zone and positive outcome from being united. Neichute Doulo, Coordinator, EA, Nagaland also delivered a speech on the topic ‘What matters to me’ on the Look East Policy. The South East Asian Teams Also shared their perspectives, followed by discussions.
Eastern Naga students’ appeal for peace talks with Myanmar
Dimapur, Jan 18 (MExN): The Easter Naga Students Association (ENSA) has appealed to the Naga national workers to start peace talks with the Myanmar government at the earliest like in western Nagaland on consideration of the plight faced by the eastern Naga public.
In an appeal issued by President of ENSA, Michael Kaita, it stated that eastern Nagas have been suffering since the beginning of the Naga national movement. “Enough is enough. When we count the sacrifices made by the eastern Nagas it is like in terms of contract basis” it stated adding that there was no reason that the eastern Nagas should continue to suffer since the cause is not only for the eastern Nagas but for the whole Naga nation. “The present situation is not acceptable” it lamented.
Comparing the conditions between the eastern Nagas and its western counterpart, the ENSA observed that the difference between the two were completely different. It stated that western Nagas had no concern for their eastern brothers. “We have never celebrated Christmas with peace of mind due to the fear psychosis. Today we the eastern Nagas would like to ask the Nagas as a whole- Did our Naga leaders create the Naga national movement only for the eastern Nagas?” it asked. In this regard, the ENSA appealed to all the national workers to initiate peace talks with the government at the earliest, to alleviate the plight of the public in the eastern areas.
Blasts prompt Myanmar to pull up socks:More gates to come up at Namphalong, entry allowed only through Gate 1 and 2 Sangai Express From I Ibobi
MOREH, Jan 18 : Following the twin bomb blasts at Namphalong on January 8 that killed two persons and injured three others, the military junta of Myanmar has taken up certain steps to check such incidents in the future.
Making things more sensitive was the discovery of another bomb at Tamu inside Myanmar on January 14.
A reliable source informed The Sangai Express that apart from closing down Nampha-long, the Myanmarese Government has decided to erect three/four gates around Namphalong and added that Namphalong market will remain closed until the gates are erected which may take another week or so.
Three/four points have been identified around Namphalong, which can serve as entry points for the gates to come up.
Sources said that Burmese nationals will be checked at the gates which will come up soon.
The military junta strongly suspects that the bombs may have been smuggled from the side of India by some Burmese, said the source.
The Myanmar army has also conveyed to the CO of 24 Assam Rifles posted at Moreh that entry into Namphalong and Tamu from India should be allowed only through Gate number 1 and 2. If anyone is found entering Myanmar other than the stated two gates, then they would be arrested.
Following the intimation from Myanmar, the ADC of Moreh, Th Chothe, has issued a notice today noti- fying to all concerned that they can enter Myanmar only through gate number 1 and 2.
Exit and entry inside Namphalong in the night will be strictly prohibited, said the source
At the moment bomb experts of Myanmar have been pressed into service at Namphalong to detect other bombs which may have been planted like the earlier two.
Myanmar army and police have been deployed along the road between Namphalong and Tamu and kept on the alert at the border especially along the stretch which are not fenced.
Ever since Namphalong bazar on the Myanmarese side of the border was closed following the twin bomb blasts on January 8, hundreds if not thousands of petty traders who make their living by buying and selling goods across the border have been hit hard.
Moreh town also today resembles a deserted look as traders from Imphal and other places, who usually descend on the border town every day to buy goods from Namphalong have stopped coming. This has had a cascading effect on petty traders in the town, such as hotel owners.
The suspension of trade has also hit the people across the border hard.
Following the bomb blasts, export and import business between the two countries was stopped from January 8 to 10, said the Superintendent in charge of Customs, DM Das while speaking to the press today.
However the formal business of export and import between the two countries have started and there is no restriction at the moment, added Das.
Whatever the case, the closure of Namphalong and Tamu in Myanmar has hit the petty traders hard on either side of the border.
Womenfolk claim five handed over to Nagaland police are innocent The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Jan 18: Five out of the six persons arrested by the Moirang police in connection with the murder of a van driver, Vilhoukho Phira of Kikwema, Nagaland have been handed over to the Nagaland police by the state authorities on January 16. However, the main culprit behind the murder was not among the five.

Peeved that the state authorities instead of handing over the main culprit Nongthombam Amar, son of Sashu Singh of Langol housing complex, had handed over the other five who were picked up for interrogation in connection with the murder to the Nagaland police, the womenfolk of Saiton village, where the five persons belong to, marched towards the chief minister`s bungalow this afternoon in protest against the state government`s move. However, the police intervened and stopped the womenfolk numbering around 100 in front of the GM hall and kept them confined near Khoyathong Pukhri Mapal. Later, the representatives of the women called on the chief minister late this evening. In the meeting the chief minster informed the representatives that the five persons were handed over to the Nagaland police on an understanding between the chief judicial magistrate, Bishenpur and his Kohima counterpart and would be brought back to Imphal on January 24.

After the chief minister clarified the actual situation, the womenfolk cooled down and decided to wait till January 24 . They however threatened that if the five were not brought back on the said day they would launch various kinds of agitation.
The five who were handed over to the Nagaland police were identified as Yumnam Pratap, 32, son of Y Babuchao Singh, Laishangthem Rajdhon Singh, 35, son of Raijeshwor Singh, his brother Surjit Singh, 26, Khangenbam Gyneshwor, 27 son of Chandras and Aheibam Dilip, 42, son of Ropojit Singh, all hailing from Saiton village of Moirang police station.

The five persons were picked up on December 13 last year by the Moirang police for their alleged involvement in the murder of Vilhoukho, a taxi driver from Kikwema whose dead body was recovered buried at the bank of Khuga river on December 4. After taking remand from the court they were sent to jail. Among them, Surjit was picked up by the police on the morning of his wedding day and Gyneshwor is a primary school teacher.

The families of the five youths came to know of their handing over to the Nagaland police when they went to meet them at Sajiwa jail on January 16. As per the disclosure made by the jail authority to the families the five youths were taken out from the jail on the night of January 15. It may be noted here that a Nagaland based social organisation Southern Angami Public Organisation, Kohima has been threatening to call indefinite bandh on National Highway-39 demanding handing over of the culprits behind the death of Vilhoukho by the Manipur government to the Nagaland government for trial in their land in connection with the case. The proposed bandh was postponed thrice after the Nagaland government appealed for some more time. The latest threat to start the bandh from January 9 was withdrawn after some progress in the talks between Manipur and Nagaland governments.

This afternoon, the womenfolk of Saiton village supported by women meira paibi of Bishenpur district marched towards the chief minister`s bungalow from Khoyathong side holding placards displaying slogans like `Mihatpa dandhi piyu, Micham thadok-u`, `Mainpur Government Nagaland government gi makhada leibara`, `Miyoi manga Nagaland police sinnaba yaroi`.

The womenfolk also expressed their doubt that the state authority may be trying to conceal the main culprit without handing him over. They also said that the crime was committed by Amar Singh who had already conceded that he had murdered Vilhoukho on their personal enmity. The women while talking to mediapersons at Khoyathong also accused the second OC of Moirang police station for taking bribe for the release of the five arrested. The second OC, Dhananjoy had taken around Rs. 50,000 altogether from the five families on the promise to release them. The womenfolk stating that all the five persons were innocent said the allegation against them was that they helped Amar in changing the paint of the van as a local friend. The womenfolk also said that they helped him in belief of Amar`s word that he had bought the van from Nagaland. They helped the main accused by going with him to buy paint and to the workshop where the painting work was done. The womenfolk also further stated that they were coming to call on the chief minister to submit a memorandum containing their demands which included punishment only of the culprit, release of the innocent and return of the five youths to the state.
Win-win for democracy in Tripura New Kerala
By Pinaki Das, Agartala : Elections are considered to be democracy in action. And it was so in Tripura, where civic elections were held recently in which the ruling left front registered a convincing win. Coinciding with this democratic exercise was the surrender of a large number of militants in the state, which shows that slowly the rebels are shunning the path of violence and joining the mainstream. People came out onto the streets to celebrate the victory in the capital Agartala, where elections were held to all the thirty-five Agartala Municipal Council seats.

Scenes of jubilation were visible in all the thirteen village councils in the state. The successful conduct of the local level elections and the large participation of the people clearly demonstrated the faith they repose in the democratic process to bring about a change in their lives. Meanwhile, Political parties attributed different reasons for their victories and defeats.

"The sole reason behind this is that people have widely and heavily supported us. The Left Front candidates what they have experienced in the last five years where we have worked for the people..... On the whole Agartala city to address the problems which are actually being suffered by the people of Agartala", said Sankar Das, Chairperson of the Agartala Municipal Council.

Congress leader Ratan Chakraborty admitted: "Some organizational weakness is there and at the same time some other reasons are still behind this. So we have to examine, we have to assess; we have to discuss within our party then we shall express it."

The entrenchment of democracy in the state and the people's strong belief in it has had an adverse impact on the separatists. With militant organizations not receiving any support from the denizens of the state, they have been forced to lay down their arms and join the mainstream of the society. In the last six months the number of militants, who have surrendered, is more than what it has been in the last two years.

"Certainly the situation in Tripura is far better than it was. In Mizoram it has been a total success and Nagaland I am very very certain that it will be a success. The only troubled or the area of concern is Manipur. We have been successful in getting a large number of majorities of the Kuki groups to sign the suspension of operation and we are inviting all the groups including the Maitei groups to come forward and suspend operation and that will ultimately lead to ceasefire," said Lt Gen. Z U Shah, Corp Commander. The rebels, who surrendered to join the mainstream, also want peace to flourish in the region.

"I pray that they (rebels) will realize one day and I want them to have a bright future also. Let us hope that they will also come to the normal style one day," says Lorry, one of the surrendered militants.

The sophisticated arms and ammunition surrendered by the militants very clearly indicate that they are receiving foreign help. This is substantiated by the fact that most of the surrendered militants claim to have received training in Bangladesh. However today, with people turning against militancy, they don't have any option but to surrender. Tripura is turning out to be a success story of how democracy can win over insurgency. Most of the militants, who surrendered belong to the NLFT and the ATTF, the two main separatist groups active in the state.
Assam takes lead in projecting India's North East in new light By Sanjay Kumar New Delhi, Jan. 18 (ANI): The northeastern states have gone in for a major image building exercise to counter the present image of the region being a troubled one. They are showcasing their cultural and natural heritage and as part of this drive Assam held the first ever film festival in New Delhi.
The first film in the three-day Assam festival was "Kalsandhya" or the "Twilight" by late Bhabendra Nath Saikia. The film is all about the search of two individuals for truth and reason. A widow whose husband, a college lecturer, was killed by insurgents, tries to find out why he was killed and how did the killer benefit from his death. The film basically questions the idea of insurgency and takes a look at its harmful consequences for the state.
"People in the upper level of the extremists ask the lower level to execute a killing. The lower level follows the order without knowing why he is killing," says Mrs. Saikia, Wife of late Bhabendra Nath Saikia. Present at the inaugural ceremony was the who's who of the Assamese political and cultural world. A large audience too turned up to see this cultural extravaganza. The Assamese in Delhi turned up in sizable numbers as well. Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who also graced the occasion, seemed enthralled with the rich culture of Assam being showcased before rest of the country.
"Today there is reason to organize this festival. Other parts of the country should know what Assam stands for. We are rich in ulture and film is one medium to strengthen the unity and integrity of the country," said Gogoi. Janu Baruah, a well known Assamese film director, who was also one of the patrons of the event said: "One question that was bothering me and many people asked me why an Assamese film festival in New Delhi. I tell why not."
One strong message that the Assamese wanted to send out through this festival is that Assam is not only about insurgency. There is much more to it, its culture, its dances and its zeal to make its presence felt in the economic growth of the nation. The Bihu dance performed by the famous Assamese actress Madhurima Choudhary was meant to showcase the rich cultural aspect of Assam.
"This is the good thing that the Assamese film festival is being organized in Delhi. I am really very happy," said the enthusiastic Madhurima Choudhary, an Assamese film actress.
The festival came to an end with Manju Borah's critically acclaimed movie "Laaz". The film depicts the misery and distress of a section of society, which does not have access to basic necessities of life. In most of her films Manju Borah portrays social and political problems. Her earlier film "Anya Ek Yatra" dealt with the social implications of the insurgency in North East.
Among the audience was the Border Security force (BSF) Chief R S Mooshahary, who also belongs to Assam.
"This is the first time such a thing is happening in Delhi. It's very good," admired the BSF Chief.
The film festival was a delightful event for many students from northeastern region, who are pursuing higher studies in New Delhi. At the same time it was maiden experience for many, who thronged to watch the films. "This is the first time I have seen Assamese films, I am really happy and enjoyed it," said the impressed Bornali. All in all the Assamese film festival in Delhi was a success. It reflects the confidence of the North Eastern states and their desire to make their presence felt at the national level.
Nagaland made a similar effort recently. Several Naga bands came to perform in New Delhi with an intention to showcase the inherent talent of the state in the country's capital. And they succeeded in their mission to a large extent. An effort is being made to organize the Bihu celebrations in New Delhi. In addition an Assamese cultural centre is also coming up in the capital. (ANI)
Sodomy slur casts on AR Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Jan 18 : A serious charge of sodomy has been raised against the personnel of 24 Assam Rifles stationed at Moreh by a detainee who alleged that he was made to strip, dance and then sodomised by three Assam Rifles personnel at their camp.
According to reports received here, the victim, N Chaoba was picked up from Broadway Hotel at Moreh on January 16 by 24 Assam Rifles personnel and once inside the camp he was forced to strip and dance.
Thereafter three personnel sodomised him, said sources and added that he was given electric shocks as well.
Chaoba who was handed over to Moreh police station yesterday was shifted to Imphal today.
Taking serious note of the allegations, the Nupi Khunai Chaokhat Lamjing Lup and Meitei Council, Moreh and other organisations are set to lodge a case with Moreh police tomorrow.
Naga organisations flay killingBy Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Jan 18 : Taking strong exception against the killing of four NSCN (K) cadres by 14 Assam Rifles personnel on January 5 at Chandraman village located near Kalapahar in Senapati district, the Naga Women Union, Manipur and Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights (Southern Sector) today said that killings being perpetrated by the law enforcing agencies, particularly the Assam Rifles, in the name of maintaining law and order should be condemned by all.
In a statement the two organisations said that the four NSCN (K) cadres were first apprehended by KNF and later killed in a fake encounter by the Assam Rifles. The KNF is an old ally of the NSCN (K), they added.
“We cannot simply accept this kind of unjustified killings by the Indian Army even during the observation of well defined Ceasefire Agreement with the two factions of NSCN since 1997 and 2001 respectively,” said the two organisations and questioned the logic of killing the four cadres while the cease fire is on. On the other hand if “Naga Army inflicted such acts upon the Indian Army it was construed as criminal acts and violation of cease fire,” observed the two organisations and added that the Indian Army is not above the law of the land that they can decide who can be gunned down or not. The four NSCN (K) cadres killed by the Assam Rifles were identified as Rockson, Dahrii, Jonah and Sapuni.
Talks not to suffer since extortion by militants is not unusual: Mamoni Demand note is ULFA’s: IGP (SB)
Noted writer Mamoni Raisom Goswami, talking to The Sentinel today, said: "Since the ULFA has neither admitted nor denied the issuance of the demand note to the ONGC, it is too early to draw a conclusion on the authenticity of the letter. Be that as it may, the demand note to the ONGC will not hamper the peace process since extortion by militants is not unusual."
By a Staff Reporter Sentinel
GUWAHATI, Jan 18: IGP (SB) Khagen Sarma has today confirmed that the Rs 500-crore demand note received by the ONGC Assam Asset is of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA). Talking to The Sentinel today, the IGP said: "During technical examination it has been found that the demand note is of the ULFA. Had the demand note been not from the ULFA the rebel group would have issued a denial as soon as the news was published by the media, but it hasn’t yet." He, however, added: "Of course, it isn’t difficult to produce a replica of the letter pad of any organization nowadays."
Meanwhile, noted writer Mamoni Raisom Goswami, talking to The Sentinel today, said: "Since the ULFA has neither admitted nor denied the issuance of the demand note to the ONGC, it is too early to draw a conclusion on the authenticity of the letter. Be that as it may, the demand note to the ONGC will not hamper the peace process since extortion by militants is not unusual."
The ONGC and other public sector undertakings operating in the State have been kept under security shields, he said, adding that the local SPs would tighten security measures in their respective areas if there were any lose ends. Meanwhile, sources said that the OIL was not panicked about the demand note to the ONGC by the ULFA. The oil major is of the opinion that since it has been contributing regularly to the socio-economic sector of the State it has no problems with any organizations.
Sources said that Tinsukia SP, DC and representatives of the BSF, CRPF and the Army had a meeting with ONGC and OIL authorities at Tinsukia yesterday and discussed the security scene around all ONGC and OIL installations. "On January 21, ONGC and OIL authorities will have a meeting with the DGP at Guwahati," the sources said. Sources said that the envelop addressed to ONGC Assam Asset chief BM Singh had contained two letters, one in English and the other in Assamese, both dated January 1, 2006. While the letter in English was signed by one Mrinal Hazarika stated in the letter as the ‘commander’ of the ‘28th battalion’ of the ULFA, the letter in Assamese was signed by one Debojit Kumar stated as a member of the outfit’s finance unit.
ONGC authorities did inform Nazira police of the matter but surprisingly no FIR was lodged.
Protect religious identity of Bodos: Hagrama From our Correspondent Sentinel
KOKRAJHAR, Jan 18: The 49th annual convention of Bathou (Shiva) Dharma Sangha (BDS), Assam State Committee, was held at the premises of Bashbari Bathou Yogashram recently with the presence of thousands of delegates, gurus, purahits and devotees hailing from different parts of the State, including West Bengal and Nepal. A delegates’ session was also held on the first day of the programme under the presidentship of Mohiram Brahma, president of the BDS. The delegates meeting discussed its problems and perspective of the religion. It also decided to strengthen the faith on Bathouism and spread its message to the people. Besides, a women’s welfare meet was also held on the occasion which was chaired by Ananda Basumatary, adviser, BDS (Shiva). Addressing the open session as the chief guest, chief of BTC Hagrama Mohilary said that the Bathou was the aboriginal religion of the Bodos having deep thoughts and philosophy. He appealed to the people to protect the religious identity of the Bodos through Bathouism as that others do.
The meeting which was presided over by Mohiram Brahma, president, BDS (Shiva) was also attended among others by ex-MP Charan Narzary, president of the central committee BDS Dwarendra Nath Brahma, BTC MLCs Mono Brahma, Daneswar Goyary, members Madhan Karki Chetri, Baktar Ali Ahmed, ex-MLA Parmeswar Brahma and president of Kokrajhar district BPPF(H) Karendra Nath Brahma.