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01/28/2006: "UNPO Confident on a Positive Outcome for the Naga Issue"

UNPO Confident on a Positive Outcome for the Naga Issue
As the ongoing ceasefire between the Indian government and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isaac-Muivah) NSCN(IM) is due to expire on 31 January 2006, talks on an extension of the ceasefire are underway.
The root of the current situation derives from a divergent vision of Nagaland-India relations, and so far several talks have been held to resolve the conflict. Three years ago, on request, the Naga Government sent a clear-cut proposal to the Indian Government, the content of which was meant to launch a basis upon which the talks would progress. Yet, there has been no further settlement on the final question of self-determination for Nagaland and some have pointed at a lack of consistency by the Indian government due to different voices within various political parties. On the other hand, one of the positive achievements in this respect was a communiqué in which the Government of India recognized the uniqueness of Naga History. This recognition was stated as a prerequisite for the Nagas to continue the talks.
UNPO urges the UN to consider the question of Nagaland based on the right to self-determination and further encourages a consistent and accountable policy by the Indian Government to find a viable solution to the question of Nagaland.
UNPO calls upon all parties to the conflict to endorse measures to progress the peace process, including serious consideration of the proposal for a federal process, unilaterally put forward by Thuingaleng Muivah. “UNPO is positive that the scheduled talks will advance the process and expects to see both parties take further substantiate steps to end the Indo-Naga conflict,” General Secretary Marino Busdachin states.
Whereas an end to the ceasefire would give rise to resumed confrontation and signify a serious setback, UNPO is confident that the parties will continue to build on progress previously made, entailing an extension of the ceasefire,” Marino Busdachin maintains. “

Four former PMs appeal for continuation of Naga peace process Zeenews
New Delhi, Jan 28: Expressing satisfaction over the continuation of ceasefire in Nagaland for the last eight years, four former Prime Ministers today said the process will continue and a settlement on Naga insurgency problem be arrived at through negotiations.

"We are firmly of the opinion that the ceasefire must continue and that both sides must work hard to arrive at a just and honourable settlement through negotiations," former Prime Ministers V P Singh, I K Gujral, Chandra Shekhar and H D Devegowda said in a statement here.

"However, the last extension of the ceasefire was for a period of only six months. This gives us a cause for some anxiety," they said adding "we, therefore, appeal to both parties to extend the ceasefire and continue the negotiations in good faith".

Crucial talks between the Indian Government and major Naga insurgent group NSCN(I-M) for extension of the current ceasefire began in Bangkok today with the extremist group insisting on Government's commitment on integration of Naga-inhabitated areas outside Nagaland. The current spell of ceasefire between the Naga group and the government will expire on January 31. Bureau Report

Indian Govt, NSCN (I-M) hold crucial talks on ceasefire PTI

Bangkok, Jan 28 (PTI) The Government here today held crucial talks with NSCN(I-M) on extension of the current spell of ceasefire in Nagaland beyond January 31, with the major Naga insurgent group demanding a commitment on unification of all Naga inhabitated areas in North Eastern region.
Minister of State for Overseas Indian Affairs Oscar Fernandes and interlocutor for Naga talks K Padmanabhaiah discussed various aspects of the ceasefire, which has been in forced for the last eight years, with NSCN(IM) Chairman Isak Chisi Swu and General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah. The two sides would continue their discussions tomorrow, informed sources told PTI.

The sources expressed hope that something concrete will emerge on Monday when the two sides would have their final round of talks.

"The talks are important and the two sides are discussing the issue of ceasefire and events related to it," a member of the NSCN(IM) said.

Meanwhile, in a statement in New Delhi, four former Prime Ministers appealed for the continuation of Naga peace process and extension of the eight-year old ceasefire.

"We are firmly of the opinion that the ceasefire must continue and that both sides must work hard to arrive at a just and honourable settlement through negotiations," former Prime Ministers V P Singh, I K Gujral, Chandra Shekhar and H D Devegowda said. PTI

Indian Govt., NSCN(I-M) hold talks The Hindu
Bangkok, Jan. 28 (PTI): Crucial talks between the Indian Government and major Naga insurgent group NSCN(I-M) for extension of the current ceasefire began here today with the extremist group insisting on government's commitment on integration of Naga-inhabited areas outside Nagaland.
"We have just started deliberating on various issues. As of now nothing has come out of the meeting. We hope that something concrete will come out by Monday when the talks may end," informed sources told PTI. The current spell of the ceasefire between the Naga group and the government will expire on January 31.
"The talks are important and the two sides are discussing the issue of ceasefire and events related to it," a member of the NSCN(IM) said. Another round of talks are likely to be held late tonight, they said.
The Indian delegation is represented by Minister of State for Overseas Indian Affairs Oscar Fernandes, and interlocutor for Naga talks K Padmanabhaiah, while NSCN(IM) was led by its Chairman Isak Chisi Swu, and General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah.
Two killed in NSCN factional clash in Nagaland New Kerala
Kohima: Two women were killed in a fierce gunbattle between the NSCN(IM) and NSCN(K) factions at Longleng, official sources today said.

The two women were killed in the cross fire between the NSCN factions yesterday, which continued for half an hour. The situation at Longleng was tense. The district administration had sought an additional force of the Indian Reserve Battalion to tackle the situation, sources added.

Is Naga truce in trouble? Bangkok | January 28, 2006 8:15:05 PM IST Webindia

Peace talks between the Indian government and Nagaland's dominant separatist outfit were deadlocked Saturday, with the rebels questioning the need to extend further the nine-year-old ceasefire that ends Tuesday.
The Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) told Indian government negotiators that they did not see the necessity to prolong the truce that was last extended in July for six months.
Indian peace negotiators are, however, hopeful of convincing the rebel leadership to extend the ceasefire in further talks Sunday.
"There is no point in simply extending the ceasefire unless our demands are met by the Indian government," a senior NSCN-IM leader said after the talks.
"The Indian government will have to convince us that there is a need to extend the truce and that progress has been made with respect to our demands."
The two-and-a-hour talks were held at Hotel Plaza Ethini between a three-member NSCN-IM delegation led by the outfit's general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and Indian negotiators.
Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Oscar Fernandes and New Delhi's chief peace negotiator K. Padmanabhaiah led the government.
"The talks will continue tomorrow (Sunday). We are hopeful of some solution," Fernandes told journalists. He admitted: "Not much progress could be made in the last six months but peace and tranquility was there. This is the requirement".
Muivah accused New Delhi of tacitly supporting the rival faction led by guerrilla leader S.S. Khaplang. "The ceasefire is for creating conducive atmosphere and it has to serve the purpose. For that the government of India has to show control on the situation on the ground (and take) political steps," Muivah said. The NSCN-IM, led by guerrilla leaders Isak Chishi Swu and Muivah, entered into a ceasefire with the Indian government in 1997.
The two sides have since held at least 50 rounds of talks aimed at ending one of South Asia's longest running insurgencies that has claimed an estimated 25,000 lives since India attained independence in 1947. The NSCN-IM has threatened to pull out of the ceasefire if the government negotiators failed to come up with a solution. The NSCN-IM is one of the oldest and most powerful of about 30 rebel groups in India's northeast and wants to create a "Greater Nagaland" by slicing off parts of neighbouring states that have Naga tribal populations. The governments of Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh have already rejected the NSCN-IM's demand for unification of Naga-dominated areas. (IANS)
Govt kept guessing on ceasefire extension Indian Express/MExN
New Delhi/Dimapur | Jan 27
Keeping the government guessing till the last moment, the NSCN (I-M) will inform the interlocutors only on January 30 if they are willing to extend the ceasefire with the Centre. The six-month ceasefire agreement ends on January 31. The talks to be held in Bangkok will begin tomorrow. A proposal by Dr Michael Van Praag of the Dutch NGO, Kreddha is also on the cards.
The Centre’s emissaries, Minister for Planning and Programme Implementation Oscar Fernandes and K Padmanabhaiah, are leaving for Bangkok on Friday night for the two-day talks with the Naga rebels. Sources said that the NSCN leaders Isak Chisi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah were likely to lay their cards on the table only on Monday, January 30.
It is the first time that the Naga rebels have kept the government on tenterhooks till the very last moment before extending the ceasefire, which has lately become a little uneasy.
Sources said that with the dialogue process having reached a stalemate for quite some time over the contentious Greater Nagaland or ‘Nagalim’ issue, the government could not be sure that the ceasefire would be extended. ‘‘Even the NSCN does not have too many options and most likely will agree to the ceasefire extension, but they have created this air of uncertainty around the talks,’’ said a senior government official.
The NSCN leaders had of late acted a little difficult, sources said, alleging that the government was not sincere in achieving a long lasting solution to the decades-old Naga insurgency problem. In force since 1999, the ceasefire agreement was always extended for a period of one year.
However, in 2005, the insurgents had agreed to extend the ceasefire only by six-months, saying that if they were convinced of government’s sincerity, they would extend it further.
Government sources said that a Dutch NGO, Kreddha, had been helping and advising the NSCN leaders. ‘‘Muivah and Swu lack the sophistication in diplomacy and probably feel somewhat inadequate during negotiations. So a lawyer and executive president of the NGO, Michael C van Walt van Praag, has been helping them out. Accompanied by another activist, Praag has been sitting through the negotiations,’’ disclosed an official.
Though there were reports the NGO was officially appointed as a ‘third-party mediator’, sources said their role was only a ‘‘friendly and advisory’’ one.
The talks have been stuck mainly over the issue of Greater Nagaland, with the NSCN leaders insistent in their demand for the unification of all Naga inhabited areas, many of which were in Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. ‘‘Even the suggestion of unifying the areas is enough to create unrest in the neighbouring states. The Centre cannot take any chances and is therefore, treading cautiously. The Centre can only consider demands within the Constitutional framework,’’ the official added.
Indo-Naga Peace Talks- An Analysis Yaronsho Ngalung Kuknalim.com

The people all over the world are eagerly waiting to see what sort of outcome will at last be negotiated in the last round of Indo-Naga political dialogues slated to be held between 27 and 31 January 2006 in Bangkok...

The Nagas will be led by the Collective Leadership while the Indian Representatives will be led by the Head of the Group of Ministers (GoMs). This round of talk to be held in Bangkok is crucial as this is the last sitting of the 8 and ½ years ceasefire agreement which ends on 31st January 2006. Every politically conscious man and woman is keeping his/her fingers crossed whether or not the hard-earned ceasefire agreement would be extended beyond 31st January. Many people are consciously or unconsciously putting pressures to both the NSCN and the Indian Government for an extension of the ceasefire tenure. The coming talk will decide the future course of relationship between the Indian Government and the Nagas in the Indian sub-continent. This is the reason why the coming talk has gained it’s importance. The coming talk opens a new chapter in the history of Indian foreign policy as for the first time the Indian Government has ever accepted mediation by an International Third Party on political issue like the Indo-Naga issue as reported in the Medias. The International civil society, Kreddha, an Indo-European word, meaning “to place trust” would act as an official Third Party Mediator in the coming talk. Kreddha’s Executive President, Michael C van Walt van Praag will lead the mediation. Kreddha has actively participated in resolving conflict in the East Timor as well as in Tibet. The Third Party Mediator is necessary at this juncture because of the nature of conflict. The 1964 ceasefire failed because there was no mediator when the Indian Government tried hard to impose their talks of within the Union of India which the Naga National Council (NNC) rejected out rightly. It is hope that Kreddha would help overcome the present political deadlock due to the Indian Government’s unclear position over the integration of all Naga areas as a first step towards a final political solution and other substantive issues. We could perceive two possible results from the talk- one positive and the other negative. On the positive side, the talk may salvage for an extension of the ceasefire for some period. However, this is possible only when the Indian Government is in a position to assure the Nagas of their commitment for integrating all the Naga areas and other substantive issues. The negative outcome could be that of ending the ceasefire without reaching any understanding in principle which opens a way for another era of conflict in Nagalim.

The Second Indo-Naga political negotiations since 1997 is in a way different in nature as it is about establishing a “Special Federal Relationship” between the Nagas and the Indian Government. It is not a normal federal arrangement within the Indian Constitution. Rather, it is about a federation between the two entities. Had the present talks been forming a new state under the Indian Constitution then there would have been a solution today without stretching this long. Article 1 of the Indian Constitution talks of India, that is Bharat, which shall be a union of states. However, this Article cannot apply to the present political talks because as soon as it is applied then, the first principle of talk which is unconditional would be violated. Besides, the Naga National Movement does not have a vision for creating such a state within the Indian Union. The Naga National Movement’s principle objective has been and is the rights of the Nagas to self-determination. This was the reason why the NNC declared Nagas’ Independence on 14th August 1947. This declaration was further reaffirmed by the Nagas Voluntary Plebiscite held on 16th May 1951 where 99.9% of the Nagas had voted for Independent Sovereign Naga State. This was the same reason why the Nagas rejected the creation of Indian state of Nagaland in 1963. It was also in refutation of the Indian Constitution and surrendering of the Nagas’ rights that National Socialist Council of Nagalim was formed on 30th January 1980. The above historical rejections of the Indian Constitution by the Nagas speak volumes about why the present political talks are not taking place for a solution within the Indian Constitution. And it is definitely obvious that the Nagas would not surrender their rights now or in the future. It would be a serious misconception if people misinterpret the ongoing dialogues for their vested interests and whims. The purpose of this article is an effort to understand and explicate the nature of the context and the issues in which the talks has been leading up until now. Such approach of understanding and explanation of the nature of the context and issues in which the talks has so far taking place has a direct link to any future course of outcome and relationship from the talks in Bangkok this week.

The question then is not of creating a larger state under Article 3 of the Indian Constitution but one that has to do with fostering a different federal political engagement between Indian Government and the Nagas in the Indian sub-continent. The reasons are simple and pure. Of course, what the political commentators, analysts and observers have been saying is that integration of all Naga areas is possible even through Article 3 of the Indian Constitution. However, this does not necessarily mean that the NSCN has been trying to solve the Indo-Naga political issue within the Indian Constitution. What the NSCN has been continuously maintaining is that integration of all Naga areas is the first political step towards resolving Indo-Naga political issue. It is very clearly stated by Mr. Th. Muivah, the General Secretary, NSCN, during interview by Karan Thapar in the BBC World: Hard Talk India on 29th April 2005. What was clearly stated was not a solution within Indian Union or within the framework of the Indian Constitution but the Nagas establishing a “Special Federal Relationship” with India. This relationship is called a federation between India and Nagalim. This is the crux of the present political talks. This federation is unlike a state within a State. Rather, this federation is being proposed for the future political engagements. Such a federation is envisioned based on the “Unique History and Situation of the Nagas” which was officially recognized by the Indian Government on 11th July 2002. It is on the part of Indian Government to respect the official recognition of the same. In so far as the Indian Government is concern, they have completely failed to come out with a clear policy statement on the issues. This is the main problem why the peace talks had been at a snail pace. Who is to be blamed for the present political impasse? No doubt the Indian Government is to be blamed. Now, the last round of talks is in the corner.

The ensuing talk is a deciding factor for any form of future relationship between the Indian Government and the Nagas. Many are of the opinion that both the parties should not lost the opportunity of finding an honourable and lasting political solution to the 59 years of conflict. In this respect the former US President Jimmy Carter’s Letter written to the Prime Minister of India, Dr.Manmohan Singh and the NSCN leaders encouraging for bringing “an acceptable solution that will assure the rights of the Naga people and the security of India” should not be taken for granted. Jimmy Carter’s Letter correctly correspond the geopolitical scenario in the Indian sub-continent. He knew to himself very well that without assuring the rights of the Nagas and the security of India, any future relationship would be a far cry for justice.

In conclusion it is pertinent to point out the importance of a sincere approach to the problem by both the parties in the coming talk. The issue here is of concern not only with the leaders of both the Government of India and the Government of the People’s Republic if Nagalim (GPRN). The vital issue, however, is concerning the Naga people and the rest of the people in the Indian sub-continent. It has become imperative that the rights of the Nagas be respected by the Indian Government which will at the same time enhance the security of India. It has been increasingly felt that without respecting the rights of the Nagas would not in anyway help the security of India. This is because the Nagas could in many ways strengthen the security be it political or economic. Politically, it would not be wrong to say that the Nagas could take care of the aspirations of the Northeastern people. Taking good care of the region would considerably strengthen the economic security of India in terms of its “Look East Policy”. In a way Jay Prakash Narayan was right when he said in the past that “it is far more important to have friendly Nagas on our frontier closely associated with us in some new constitutional manner rather than unfriendly and discontented Nagas kept forcibly within the Indian Union.” He was arrested because he spoke the rights of the Nagas. A point to be noted is that without respecting the rights of the Nagas neither the there will be a solution to the Indo-Naga political issue nor the security of India is strengthened. Like the title of A.S. Atai Shimray’s book “Let Freedom Ring”, shall we hope of a positive outcome from the talk by concluding in a more or less similar tone, let the aspirations of the people ring in the coming talk.

Crucial NSCN (IM) - GOI peace talks begin today Kuknalim.com
NEW DELHI, Jan 27: Further dialogue on the substantial issues involving the vexed Naga problem is likely to be held after Assam polls even as the Centre contemplates to prepare the ground to involve the concerned North Eastern States...

with the Naga peace process. Highly placed sources told this newspaper that the main agenda for the talks with the NSCN (I-M) that gets underway tomorrow at Bangkok is to extend the ceasefire that is due to expire on January 31.

A high-level delegation led by Minister of State for Statistic and Programme Implementation and Sports, Oscar Fernandes, who also heads the Group of Minister (GoM) is leaving for Thailand tonight. The NSCN (I-M) delegation is slated to be headed by general secretary, Th. Muivah. Chairman Isak Chisi Swu is not likely to attend the talks. A strong delegation has I-M office bearers have already left India to take part in the meeting.

Ahead of the crucial of the meet, a top official hinted that further negotiations on the contentious issues might not be possible during the ensuing rounds of talks. Talks on the substantive issue may be possible only after the election in Assam is over. "But before that we have to smoothen things before moving forward," said the official.

Indications were that the Centre has more or less made up its mind to involve the States of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam with the Naga peace process. The States too have been sounded out and informally Fernandes has held discussions with the Chief Ministers, confided sources.

Unless a proper agenda is prepared and discussed beforehand, the process cannot move forward, sources said.

Unfortunately, sources said, whatever progress had been made was undone because of the economic blockade in Manipur by the Nagas. "Whatever goodwill we had managed to achieve is gone, as the economic blockage created a lot of tension," sources said.

Nearly a month-long blockade by All Naga Students Association of Manipur (ANSAM) last year crippled life in the Valley, adding to the tension between Meities and Nagas.

Given that the talks with the NSCN (I-M) and Government of India has been deadlocked over the issue of unification of the Naga inhabited areas spread over the three States, caution is the key word. The sensitivities of the States particularly Manipur to the Naga demand has an added dimension.

When asked whether the States were likely to be brought on board soon, sources said that they have not reached that stage as yet. It will take time, he added.

On the stalemate, sources said, "Naga wanted to move forward but without a consensus on the issue we cannot move ahead." But officials were optimistic about extension of the ceasefire.

The ceasefire was extended for six months the last time, which itself was a departure from the past practice, following hardening of stand by the NSCN (I-M).

Meanwhile, landing right in middle of the tension would a Parliamentary Standing Committee delegation attached to the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Standing Committee led by chairperson and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj would land in Guwahati on February 1 on a seven-day tour of the Region.

The delegation that includes some high profile leaders including Opposition leader, LK Advani, Rahul Gandhi, Ajit Jogi, Sitaram Yechury, RK Dhawan among others are slated to tour the States of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Meghalaya before returning back home.

On the agenda are discussions on insurgency, development issues, border management and trade. The delegation is scheduled to interact with top officials, visit centrally funded institutions. (Agencies)

Army lets off Dimapur detainees The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Jan 25: The four persons including two subcontractors of a transport agency based in the state whose whereabouts remained untraceable after they were picked up by the Army on January 19 from Dimapur in Nagaland have been reportedly handed over to Bokachan police station in Assam today by the army, a reliable report said.
In the meantime, demanding release of the four persons identified as Takhelmayum Jiban of Khurai Chingangbam Leikai, Takhellambam Naoba of Porompat JN Hospital road, Haobam Nabakumar of Sawombung and Oinam Sanayaima of Khoimu of Thanga, women vendors of Lamlong bazar and women folk of the nearby locality staged a sit-in-protest at Lamlong bazar starting from this morning at around 9 am till 1 pm.
During the sit-in-protest all the business activities of the Lamlong market remained suspended. The protest which was scheduled to continue till 4 pm was cancelled at around 1 pm after getting the news that all the four abducted by the security forces were handed over to Bokachan police station this morning. The womenfolk of Nungoi, Laikhul, Pungdongbam where one of the abducted persons hails from also staged sit-in-protest in their respective localities for the safe release of the abducted persons.
Condemning the long detention of civilians after apprehension by the security forces a joint statement of the Manipur Keithel Nupi Lup and All Manipur Nupi Lup appealed for the release the four without any harm. The statement also called for a stop to security forces taking apprehended persons into their custody for a long time and appealed for safeguarding the life of innocent civilians.
It may be noted that among the four persons who were picked up by Army from a hotel in Dimapur’s 3rd Mile area, two namely Jiban and Naoba are subcontractors for a transport agency and had headed out for Dimapur on January 19 morning in a Scorpio vehicle to collect bills from the FCI godown there. The other two persons picked up along with them were businessmen.

Brave kids of India's north east do their country proud New Delhi | January 28, 2006 7:07:35 PM IST Webindia

Six children from India's seven northeastern states were among those who won this year's bravery awards. Ratul Chandra Rabha and Rituparno Boro from Assam were given the top honour of Bharat Award for displaying exemplary courage in nabbing a fleeing militant. In all, 17 children were felicitated and rewarded by the government for their acts of bravery.
It was great feeling for these brave children to be taken out for an honourable elephant ride on Rajpath on Republic Day. They also received awards and gifts from President A P J Abdul Kalam.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also met the children. At a function organized at the Prime Minister's residence, these children were introduced to several national leaders.
"Such type of bravery that has been shown at the spur of moment, such type of the bravery that encourages others, I really congratulate these children. I am proud of them and I salute them," said the Prime Minister.
The whole country is proud of them. Seventeen year old Master Putijungshi from Nagaland along with his friends saved the life of a person who was caught in a landslide. Without caring for his own safety he pulled out a middle-aged man from cascading rubble coming down with a mountain stream.
Ten-year-old Seidalyne Mawtyllup from Meghalaya won the prestigious Geeta Chopra Award. This girl overawed by media attention saved her sister from fire. Her three-year-old sister was trapped inside a burning hut, and Seidalyne entered the burning house, covered her sister with a shawl and brought her out safely.
Kumari Seidalyne Mawtyllup, Bravery award winner from Meghalaya said: "I feel proud for honour given by the Government of India...I want to be an army officer."
"I am very happy. I am feeling nice to get the award...When I grow up I want to be an army officer," said the enthusiastic Putijungshi, Bravery award winner from Nagaland.
Ten-year-old Kumari Leitanthem Pusparani Devi from Manipur is bravery personified, with childish face and steely determination. She saved a two year old. When she heard the cry of the drowning boy from a nearby pond she jumped in, swam towards the boy for about fifteen feet and brought out the semi conscious boy.
While Nelson Karam, from Manipur, swam across a strong current about fifteen to twenty feet down stream and pulled out a drowning boy to safety.
When asked about his future plans, the blissful Nelson said: "I feel very happy... I want to be an IAS officer."
Two Bharat Awardees from Assam were the cynosure of all eyes. Master Ratul Chandra Prabha and Master Rituparna Boro represented the modern face of Assam. They also represented the anguish of younger generation that has been affected by the culture of violence and uncertainty that the state has been thrown into by the separatist outfits like the ULFA.
Rituparno Boro said: "This is the story of the tenth month of 2004. Militants called one of my teachers outside the school and shot him, when the militants started running away we chased them then the militants fired back at us students. Then Ratul moved ahead of me, Ratul went after the militants from one side and I moved from the other side, we saw that the militants are climbing on the mountain. Ratul went after the militants from one side and I from other side. Then Ratul threw a stone on one of the militants he fell down, and then we caught him and started beating him. We brought him down from the mountain and handed him over to the villagers and police."
"Whatever militants are doing is bad. They beat up people, they ask for ransom. In the 2004 Dhemaji blast several small kids lost their lives. We the people of India want to get rid of the militants. This is the problem of not only Assam but the whole of the world. We want to live in peace."
For these brave boys coming to the capital from the distant Kamrup district of Assam was a wonderful experience. They enjoyed the attention they got in Delhi.
Master Ratul Chandra Rabha, another Bravery award winner from Assam said: "I felt happy meeting people. After getting a good education I want to serve the country through the army. I am an Indian and it's my duty to serve the country."
The month long stay in Delhi for these children from northeastern states has been a wonderful experience. They got to meet people from different parts of the country and realized what unity in diversity, a hallmark of the nation, really means. (ANI)
Another industrial boon in Nagaland
(Top) Governor Shyamal Datta taking salute from the R-Day parade in Kohima.(Bottom) Minister Dr. Shurhozelie inspecting the contingents of 3rd NAP, DEF, VGs, CRPF, NCC, Bharat Scout & Guide and Ex- Servicemen in Tuensang.
Dimapur, Jan 27 (MExN): With the inauguration of the Patchouli Distillation unit of Naga Fragrance Private Limited (NGPL) and Community Resource cum Training Center in Thilixii village today, it has proved another boon to the industrial growth in Nagaland. Considering the immense potential for growing particular spices and medicinal and aromatic plants with our wide climatic diversities and promoting rural development, the Naga Fragrance (P) Ltd is promoted by the Prodigal’s Home. The first of its kind in Nagaland, it was inaugurated by DC Dimapur, KN Ngullie amidst a huge crowd including officials, special guests and neighboring villagers. The unit is under the supervision of Dili Solomon, Director, NGPL with a team of 52 staff. The main activities of the company are post harvest management, marketing and demonstration farm with research and development facilities. Talking to The Morung Express, officials of the factory said that Patchouli saplings are distributed to the villagers after which the Naga Fragrance unit purchases the growth production plants. Essential oils are further extracted through the unit plant and marketed outside for various purposes including its tenacity in perfumes, medical use and cosmetics. Most of the rural farmers are devoid of marketing strategy. The unit is specially emphasized on post harvest management where the farmers will have less worry over their production markets. The community research center recommended by Indo-Global Service Society funded by a Germany based organization was conceived with an idea to communicate and train developmental skills to the rural section and initiate agri based seminars, as stated by K. Ella, Assistant Director, PH in her brief report on the center.
While addressing the gathering, the DC in his inaugural speech lauded the plant and appealed to all the farmers and also the authority to be sincere and maintain dignity of labour to result in a sustainable development. He stressed on the inapt attitude and mindset of the Naga people and how one should educate oneself to patience and discipline and avoid violence. He further urged the neighboring villagers and authority to cooperate with each other and control peace in the area.
Expressing the vision of the NFPL, Dili Solomon stated that it is committed to making all the contract farmers as shareholders of the company and making them professional farmers through training and exposure. “Within five years the farmers will be lakhpatti”, mused the Director while adding, “I will make the Fragrance of the Nagas reach New York in 5 years time”. He also stated the unit’s target to contract 250 farmers for cultivating patchouli by generating 40 lakhs patchouli saplings and other spices crops like vanilla, black pepper, etc. it has also targeted to set up another vessel attached to the distillation unit with the help of the Nagaland Rural Bank and another Super Critical Fluid Extraction Unit with financial help of UBI, Dimapur and SFAC.
“The farmers will be provided support in the technical way and not by monetary incentives. If they require water supply, the unit will provide the pump machine, if need shed to protect the plants, sheds will be provided in material and financing them directly”, Dili told The Morung Express, when asked if villagers could refrain from unfair means,
A report of the project was briefed by the Technical Manager of NFPL, Ranjit Chetia who emphasized on the technical production of the plant and the product implementation in various medicinal and cosmetics use. Dr. Temsu, Chairman PH also spoke on the occasion and exhorted the villagers of the importance of the unit.
Short speeches were delivered by Dr. NK Mohan, Regional Project Co-ordinator, SFAC Guwahati, Gautam Goswani, Spices Board Dimapur, MC Gayatri, AGM, NABARD, Dimapur, L Kaikho, Manager, New Delhi Assurance Company Dimapur and representative from United Bank of India, Dimapur. The speeches stressed on the villagers’ benefit through the unit and assured its assistance and cooperation in every possible way. The Director also informed that being the Year of Farmers; he invited the Directorate of Agriculture, Horticulture, Wasteland and Industries to attend the function who surprisingly did not turn up.
The programme was chaired by Maong Jamir, NSACS funded project Manager, invoked by Fr. VM Joseph, Rector, DBS Dimapur while vote of thanks was delivered by Kedutsolo, Chairman, Patchouli Farmers Group. Special presentations were performed by PH’s ACC inmates and Moa and Alem.
Indo-Naga ceasefire: Merit and Demerits The Moring Express
For more than 50 years, India, with all her military prowess could in no way subdue the Nagas. In 1997, a cease-fire agreement was signed between the two entities. Even after more than 8 years of cease-fire and innumerable rounds of talks within and outside India, and with the participation of a third body, truth and understanding seem to elude India. You may ask why. The simple reason is that Nagalim is unique – her political struggle is akin to that of no other nation in the world. Hence there is every chance that the conventional style of political negotiations which have hitherto worked with other nations, may not work in our case.
Every Naga must not, in any way, forget this solid fact that God’s finger controls every event. Why, then, are we so quick to compromise? Why do we so easily get intimidated by India’s economic and military might? I say this to our shame. We have gone our own ways – “In the way of Cain, have run greedily in the error of Balaam for profit.” Yes, we are backslidden!
8 years of cease-fire has no doubt, brought respite to the Naga inhabited areas. But I see another powerful hidden force at work – love of comfort, pleasure, immorality and complacency combined with a false sense of security. This force is eating away at the very basic foundation of our uniqueness – our faith in the Living God and our brotherly love for each other.
“Lord, increase our faith” was the apostles’ prayer. This should be our prayer, too. For the faith we receive from our Lord Jesus is a saving faith as well as a living faith. This faith, when we possess it in full, can do wonders. Decrease of this will only invite fear, greed, hatred, an unforgiving heart, distrust and unwillingness to face reality, etc.
I have observed that these 8 years of respite has only increased ungodliness among the Nagas.
Firstly, sexual-immorality, adultery, fornication, divorce, prostitution, rape, abortion, homosexuality, etc. Secondly, injustice, corruption, tribalism, extortion, drunkenness, orgies, addiction, etc. Thirdly, ingratitude, murder, desecration of the Lord’s Day – where fasting days have turned into feasting days.
Our political solution does not lie in how much we know or how much we can do but on how much we allow God to work in our lives.
If God is with us, who can be against us?
But for God to be truly on our side we need total repentance. For he who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will receive God’s mercy. Let us remember – Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.
Pastor CM Joy
New Eden Prayer Centre, Senapati
Why not give ‘Peace Process’ a chance?
Romeo Maring The Moring Express
Come 31st January 2006 and the Ceasefire expires. “Should it be extended or not” is the talk of the town. From 1 year to 6 months: what should be the Peace Process look like this time? What is your sincere opinion my brothers? Is 9 years long enough to find solution to vex Indo-Naga problem of more than 6 decades? Do you think there is no positive headway in the Peace Process? Is Ceasefire heading for abrogation? Should it be abrogated? But why? Is it because tangible solution could not be arrived at in 9 years time? Fine, but how about the complexity of the problem? Is time the only criteria to measure when a mission should be accomplished? What should be the time limit for finding final solution to the vexed Indo-Naga Political problem?
Well, like any other Naga, I am also very serious with the Indo-Naga Political problem. I observe developments and press releases by organizations or individuals every now and then especially on the ongoing Peace Talk. To the best of my analysis, understanding and observation, I sincerely feels that the Peace Process is heading in positive direction. Therefore, Peace Process must be given chance by extending Ceasefire once again. Yes, I for one sincerely feel that the Ceasefire must be extended. I have my argument put across this way for public consumption:
1. Indo-Naga Political Talk: The first Ceasefire between the Naga National Workers and Indian Government was signed on the 6th Sept. 1964 but unilaterally abrogated by the Government of India (GoI) in 1967. Inability to continue with the Ceasefire simply speaks volume of questionable attitude and sincerity especially of the GoI. On the contrary, the present Ceasefire is running almost 9 years and is going strong with some landmark achievements. It has brought about conducive atmosphere under which Indo-Naga Talk once again has been revived with a momentum as a political talk with the following three conditions:
i. Without any condition: “Nagaland or Naga Ancestral Homeland is an integral part of India mainland. There is no compromise. Therefore, whatever the talk maybe, it has to be within the constitution of India”. This had been the strong argument and stand of the GoI. This means there is no question of Talk on Nagas Aspiration i.e. Nationality/Independence. Talk at any length, breath and width has no meaning to the Nagas as long as it is within the parameter of Indian constitution. It has been a constant, persistent and committed cry of the Nagas that there cannot be any meaningful results if the talk has to be constrained by the parameters of Indian constitution and there is no solution to Indo-Naga problem. Lately, the Naga leaders have succeeded in convincing the GoI to realize and accept that meaningful Talk cannot take place under condition. This is an achievement because the GoI had been made to accept that the Indo-Naga issue is not a mere law and order issue (which should be tackled under the provisions of Indian constitution) but an issue of ones right, the Nagas right being coerced/suppressed by might. The answer to this problem does not lie with the Indian constitution.
ii. At the Prime Minister’s Level: Here the word “Level” has a deep and serious political meaning/implication. In a country there is just one Prime Minister. “Prime Minister’s Level” is use in Nation-to-Nation talk/meeting/dialogue. Therefore, accepting the talk “At Prime Minster’s level” has implication of recognizing the Indo-Naga Talk a Nation-to-Nation affair between India and Nagalim. This is indeed a landmark achievement of the Peace-Process between the GoI and NSCN and a matter of solidifying the Naga cause and a matter of inching towards final solution.
iii. In a Third Country: The word “Third Country” signifies India and Nagalim as Nations to hold talk in different country (Third Country) other than India and Nagalim. Never had such reference being made by the GoI in the past.
2. Recognition of Unique Naga History: Every Freedom movement has history of its genesis. The Naga Freedom Movement also has history of its genesis totally different from Indian History. It clearly says about invasion and forced domination over the Indigenous Nagas and forced occupation of the Naga Homeland by the British, which was later on taken over by the Indians. It also says that the Nagas are not Indian and the Naga Homeland was never, is not (and will never be) an integral part of India. Who can deny this History? GoI used to deny this but not any more because truth prevails. The GoI has lately accepted and recognized officially the Naga History as Unique. This is a clear indication of acceptance of Naga History as genuine basis of the Naga Freedom Struggle.
Certainly along the Peace Process, there has been a certain development that clearly indicates/refers Nagalim as a Country/Nation by the GoI. So far so good, no matter how long it has taken to come this far. This is indeed boldness on the part of GoI to speak the truth on Indo-Naga problem and we must appreciate this.
We the Nagas need to understand that things just don’t come easy. And after all it is an issue of land and people- Nationhood; not just 9 years, we should be ready to go for more if necessary. I feel we need to give some more time, some more chance to peace process when we have seen developments where clear reference of Nagalim as Nation is being highlighted.
We need to learn how to understand and appreciate good things done by others. To my understanding, the collective leaderships deserves appreciations by one and all for their dedications, commitments and politics that has brought our National movement up to this stage. Now, no matter what setback may there come, the issue will never climb down below this stage where Nagalim has been referred with a status of a Nation because history has been written along the way and shall stand witness to generations.
Let us not say that the ongoing Peace Process is detrimental because it also talks on integration of Naga homeland. The issue of Integration is very genuine and must be supported by one and all Nagas. If this is not done there cannot be solution because a Nation that all the Nagas are dreaming of must comprise of land/territory having concrete demarcation/boundary and people. Big or small boundary must be specified within which plans and policies of a Nation shall be implemented. On this matter, I would like to implicate press releases by NSCN (K) where an Integration of Naga homeland has been kept in back seat and alleging that NSCN (IM) is compromising Sovereignty for Integration. In that matter does our NSCN (K) brothers fighting for sovereignty of the present Nagaland State or so-called Eastern Nagaland or some territory only? To my understanding, Integration of Naga homeland is must and it is a step towards the final solution. Therefore, not a single Naga should be against the Integration move. It should not be interpreted as a compromise of Nagas aspiration to live as free people.
The Indo-Naga Political talk is due one of these days. To extend the Ceasefire or not shall be surely discussed. Instead of cursing the Peace Process, lets all pray that wisdom and right attitude is being instilled in the heart and soul of both the party to the talk thereby more concretization towards final solution is being resulted. I wish all the best for the upcoming Indo-Naga Peace Talk. Kuknalim.