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06/23/2006: "GoI-Naga talks begin in The Hague"

GoI-Naga talks begin in The Hague Nagaland Post
The Hague (The Netherlands), JunE 22 (PTI): With an aim to boost the ongoing Naga peace process, a central team including three Union Ministers began a crucial round of negotiations with NSCN-IM leaders here today. The meeting assumes significance as for the first time Union Minister Oscar Fernandes and two key members of the Group of Ministers constituted by the Government to look into the Naga peace process are participating in the talks.
Fernandes had been the only Minister of the UPA government to participate in earlier negotiations, but he has been joined this time by Union Minister of State for Home S Reghupathy and Minister of State at the PMO Prithviraj Chouhan. The interlocutor for the Naga talks, K Padmanabhiah, is another member of the Central team.
With the Centre reluctant to concede the NSCN-IM's key demand for unifying all Naga-inhabitated areas in the northeast, the rebel group is expected to raise the issue of "greater autonomy" for Nagaland during the deliberations that will continue till June 24, sources said.
Autonomy is part of the 30-point "charter of demands" submitted by the NSCN-IM, and this includes a greater say in the utilisation of natural resources, a separate constitution, a separate flag and control in areas like finance, defence and policing, they said. The two sides are also expected to discuss the extension of the ceasefire with the NSCN-IM, which is set to end on July 31. The Centre began talks with the NSCN-IM in 1997 after the two sides agreed to a ceasefire.
IM rubbishes autonomy report Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Dimapur, Jun 22: Strongly reacting to the PTI news reports from New Delhi that the NSCN-IM is expected to focus on the greater autonomy for Nagaland during the crucial talks with the Centre's negotiators at The Hague from June 22-24, one of the key figures in the NSCN-IM set up has termed the reports as attempt to confuse the people.

"We are not surprised over such reports as some media have been playing spoil-sports with regard to the ongoing Naga peace process", said deputy Home Minister of the NSCN-IM V Horam and added, "there are no such things as greater autonomy or smaller autonomy that the Nagas are talking about".

Informing this to Newmai News Network this morning V Horam, who is well known for his articulate skill and diplomacy, said "we are talking about the federation of India and Nagalim".

Explaining its proposal the deputy Home Minister said "what we have put up is for the Federation of India and Nagalim and the pattern of relationship between these two nations (Federation of India and Nagalim) which is to be inseparable and this thing to be worked out in the process of the ongoing talks and that would be incorporated in the Constitution of India as well as the Constitution of Nagalim." He further explained that within this framework and principle the new arrangements will revolve.

However, Horam said that it is not proper to give comment before the talks start but stated that things will be out there for everyone to see after the agreement is arrived at.

Meanwhile, the NSCN-K, Zeliangrong Region spokesman Felix has informed the media over telephone that three non-Naga cadres who were with the NSCN-IM had been killed and five NSCN-IM cadres injured in the clash between the two rival factions in Tamenglong district few days back. He said that three killed cadres belong to non-Naga outfit which had been trained by the NSCN-IM. Felix further stated that five injured NSCN-IM cadres had taken to Dimapur for medical attention while the three dead bodies had been taken care off by the NSCN-IM.

The incident occured in the Makoi village clash incident, according to Felix. The spokesman further stated that his outfit been restraining from attacking the rival outfit because of the presence of the Indian security forces to which they do not want to create law and order problem in the region. He claimed that his outfit could finish-off the rival faction if wants to and urged the rival faction to come out in the open at any place at any day for confrontation
Nagas, GoI should work on a win-win outcome The Morung Express
Dimapur, June 22 (MExN): Even as the crucial round of Amsterdam talks between the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India is now currently underway, noted theologian and a keen political observer Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, while pointing out that “the Nagas and the GOI have their own blind spots in their memories” cautioned that if these blind spots become too large or too serious, they can deprive the Nagas and the GOI of a much needed win-win outcome. “It will also prevent a timely correction of mistakes and lead to a path of disaster in which both the parties become victims”, he was quoted as stating in an opinion article ‘The Indo-Naga Political Dialogue: How to Stomp the Blues’ made available to The Morung Express.
While stating that subversive propaganda of all forms, ranging from divide and rule policies, alignments, coalitions, and psychological warfare have remained ineffective, Dr Aier also observed that although seemingly “divided”, the Nagas are never divided in their political rights. “This is the paradox of the Naga heritage and spirit. This uniqueness is akin to all indigenous peoples of the world and is drawn from a primordial and ancestral being in unity with common aspirations. It is the soul of the Nagas that will not die nor perish in their political struggle”, Dr Aier was quoted as stating in his article.
Ibobi Singh denies NSCN (K) allegation The Morung Express

Imphal, June 22 (NNN): Manipur chief minister, O. Ibobi Singh strongly denied an allegation made by Khaplang faction of the NSCN that he borrowed a sum of Rs 100 million through an emissary from the Naga outfit in 2000. Ibobi was reacting to a report published by Dimapur based newspapers. The report quoted the NSCN (K) revenue minister Kughalu Mulatonu, as warning the chief minister to face dire consequences if the amount is not returned within seven days.
According to the report, Ibobi Singh sent Bijoy Koijam, a Congress MLA to Kohima to take the money from the NSCN (K) in 2000 for use by Ibobi for his election expenses. The NSCN (K) leader also warned that any consequences after the expiry of the deadline should be the responsibility of the chief minister.
“Ibobi Singh, chief minister of Manipur has clarified that such allegation is totally basaeless and unfounded. The elections of Manipur were held in 2002 and Bijoy Koijam was not known to Ibobi Singh in 2000. Bijoy Koijam did not belong to INC in 2000 and there was no question of Ibobi using him as emissary. Hence, such allegations are totally false and baseless,” the statement issued by the chief minister’s office this evening said.
The chief minister also clarified that neither hill based nor vally based underground outfits had/ have any relation with him any time related to elections or any other matter. The SPF government under Ibobi’s leadership is making all sincere efforts for the development, progress and harmony for the people of both the hill and valley, it said.
NSCN (IM) condemns murder of PWD employee The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, JUNE 22 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) has vehemently condemned the “heinous murder” of Late Mayarping Angkang, “an innocent and harmless public” serving as an UDA in the Public Works Department, Nagaland State government at Kohima without any justifiable rhyme or reason.
Stating this in a press communiqué, an MIP statement alleged that “anti-Naga elements” were relishing “their vested agenda, to vitiate the situation and derail the peace initiative”, by targeting innocent and harmless public “on the very likely pretext of false accusations to justify their criminal schemes and deeds”.
“The victim who was an innocent family man with no other inclined allegiance but only in being a Naga by birth was abducted from his home while with his wife and children and later cold bloodedly murdered”, it was informed.
The NSCN (IM) questioned as to whether such killing was aimed “to terrorize and spread fear psychosis by victimizing innocent and harmless public”.
It further described as unfortunate the “resurfacing of random targeting of innocent and harmless people like in 1996-97, where around 40 innocent and harmless people were cold bloodedly murdered without any reason”.
“Is it patriotic or terrorism when one turns to the path of human rights violations upon a people—who are being terrorized, deprived of their life and their bread earners, dear and loved ones snatched away from their midst for no wrong of theirs but except for simply belonging to a particular tribe of the Naga family.”
It was also pointed out that the NSCN (K) was intent to wreck all good-will gestures and instead resorting to their anti-Naga campaigns and cited the instance of provocative actions such as planting landmines at Athibung and killing an NSCN cadre and now followed by the resurfacing of their targeting of innocent civilians.
The NSCN (IM) clearly stated that it “will not permit hostile renegades to continue prevailing with their anti-Naga campaigns of divisions, false propagandas, terrorism, permeating fear psychosis, insecurity of the Naga people and lawlessness at any cost”.
“The terror outfit will be dealt with an iron hand from committing further terrorisms and anti peace campaigns and divisive machinations.”
As such, the NSCN (IM) has requested the Naga people to bear with it for any situation or circumstance that may have to be faced in the process of checking and countering such happenings and incidents by anti-Naga peace offenders.
The NSCN (IM) has appealed to all right thinking people to strongly condemn such heinous acts of terrorisms and human rights violation and be cautious in supporting such group for the greater interest of the Naga people. It also conveyed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the Almighty God rests the departed soul in peace.
Naga delegates plead to pay taxes to the Centre Newmai News Network
Imphal, June 22: The Naga delegation met Union Ministers Oscar Fernandes and Shivraj Patel yesterday in New Delhi which the delegation described as a his- toric event.
The delegation of the “Naga Hill areas of Manipur state” have met Shivraj Pa-tel, Minister of Home Affai- rs and Oscar Fernandes, Minister of State (Independent Charge) to hand over Hill House Tax–2006 of Rs. 14,23,425 of 94894 Naga households living in Manipur.
“This historic meeting is part of the mission of the Naga people under the banner of the United Naga Council (UNC) to uphold its November 4, 2005 Naga People’s convention (NPC) Declaration at Taphou village Tahamzam that resolved to launch Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements against the Govt of Mani-pur while urging the Govt of India to demonstrate their political will to resolve the Indo-Naga issue by carrying forward the peace -pro- cess to an acceptable and honourable settlement at all cost” said the statement signed by UNC gen secy Azang Longmei and NWUM president Grace Satshang. The Naga bodies said the non-cooperation move-ment includes five (5) point resolutions which were resolved in the backdrop of the organized violence and communal campaign by the dominant valley community against the Nagas and the sanc-tioning and glorification of the same by the Govt of Manipur. The anti-ceasefire agitation against the Ju- ne 14 Bangkok Agreement, 2001 subsequent decla-ration of June 18 as Mani- pur’s “State Integrity Day” are unique examples of intolerance shown by the valley community and the State Govt to undermine and erase the rights and aspirations of the Nagas. The reaction of the valley community of Mani-pur and the State Govt is clearly an attempt to disrupt the hard-earned current Indo-Naga peace process, which is disrespectful of the Central Govt’s peace initiative itself, it said.
It then stated that ANSAM in support of the UNC’s resolutions has al-ready sought for the affi- liation of schools and colleges in the Naga districts of Manipur to the Nagaland Board of School Education and the Nagland University ANSAM has surren-dered the prescribed textbooks of the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur (BSEM) beginning from Class VIII - X in the first phase. Altogether 156 private schools have started introducing the NBSE’s prescribed syllabus from the academic session 2006. The Naga people’s assertion for unification of their homeland is not of recent origin but it is an inherent right and organized forms of _ex-pression of this rights dates back to the time of British India.
4 PLA cadres arrested in Dimapur; incriminating documents recovered The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, JUNE 22 (MExN): The Dimapur Police yesterday busted the intelligence module of the Peoples’ Liberation Army (PLA) at Nepali Basti, Dimapur and arrested an intelligence cadre along with three suspected PLA cadres. The four arrested has been identified as SS 2nd LT. Mani Chandra alias Chinglen of West Imphal District, Th. Priyananda of Imphal East district, Moriangtham Sanjoy Singh of Imphal East district and K.L.Manihar of Imphal East district. The "Chief of the Intelligence" Sanjoy, who is here in Dimapur, was absconding at the time of raid informed police sources.
The police, after receiving reports from people of the locality regarding some suspicious elements, have been keeping an eye on the movement of the cadres. The rented home as well as makeshift office of the PLA intelligence module has been operating in Dimapur since the last two years said police sources. The police on searching the house recovered a considerable amount of incriminating documents, sensitive materials and also a cash of Rs.45,000 from the possession of Chinglen. Training modules on explosive and demolition, commando training manuals, government data like demand for Grant for the year 2006-07 of Government of Manipur, restricted maps of various districts of Manipur and Myanmar were recovered. Some of the information was also translated into Metei language which the police believe is used in teaching cadres in Manipur. Most of the data are stored in laptops and compact discs which the police have not been able to decipher . About 80% of the stored data are yet to be examined, the police said.
Details of high ranking officers, maps of Assam Rifle posts, daily movements of AR officers and jawans, lists of all police organizations, details of the Government of Manipur and photographs were all stored in laptops and CDs it was added.
A case has been registered against the arrested cadres under U/S121A, 120B, 511 of the Indian Panel Code and R/W 10, 11, 13 [1] (a) (b) [2] UAP, 7 & 8 NSR. The Dimapur Police has also faxed the message to Manipur Police and has requested its counterpart to send a special team to Dimapur for interrogation and further necessary actions. At the time of filing this report, the Chief of Intelligence Sanjoy was still absconding and the police are investigating for more information.
Students union calls blockade on NH 53 from June 30 Newmai News Network June 22
Imphal: Agitated over the non fulfillment of the long standing demands to the state government, the Tengkonjang Higher Secondary Students’ Union (Noney) under Tamenglong district has opted for total blockade for 6 days along the National Highway 53, starting from 5.30 am of June 30 onwards.
According to the statement issued by the students’ body Secretary General, Langsinngam Kahmei said that in spite of lifting of the proposed total blockade in the larger interest of the public and following an agreement with the state government representatives which was supposed to come into effect on January 5 earlier this year.” Even after 5 months the government has not taken any action of the agreement”, it said.
The students’ demands included posting of qualified and adequate teaching staff, opening of science stream, access of library material, school hostel facilities and construction of approach road among others.
Explaining the grievances, the union point out that the academic admission is in full swing for both science and arts stream, but up till now there is not a single science lecturer. “Inspite of repeated reminder to the concerned authority to implement and to sanction laboratory equipment, it is still in vain” it said and added that the present Education Minister has no knowledge about the Tengkonjang Higher Secondary School grievances when inquired. Presently, the school has 15 lecturers of which only two are regularized the rest are part timers, it rued.
The student union further stressed that the academic session which was scheduled to begin from June 21 has been postponed due to government apathy. The union along with the Zeliangrong Student Union Manipur (ZSUM) and ZSULA has submitted the memorandum on November 14 and November 30 last year to Education Minister and Chief Minister; it said and added the same copy were also dispatch to local MLA, Tamenglong DC, Commissioner Education (S) and Director Education(S).
Failed to keep the promises on the government part, the union has no other option left but to go for total blockade along NH 53, said the statement.
A Dream coming true? Letters to the editor the Morung Express ValleyRose H Hungyo
Since many years I’ve been hearing that the northern parts of Nagaland state like Mon and Tuensang areas, the erstwhile NEFA are most underdeveloped and backward as compared to other Districts like Mokokchung, Kohima etc. Due to under development of the areas, the people are also not civilized. I also learnt that the pre-dominant tribe settled in these areas, the Konyaks are very fierce and they don’t like the Tangkhuls for a simple reason that their area is pre-dominantly controlled by the Khaplangs group of the NSCN who happen to be the rival of Th. Muivah who is a Tangkhul, also learnt that prior to the separation of the two underground leaders, there was no enmity among different communities, whether Tangkhuls, Sumi or Konyak or any other tribes. They were in harmony.
From the time of the unfortunate separations of the two leaders their supporters were also divided and the once upon a time good brothers and the best friends, became the worst enemies. Both groups started hunting each other and killing one another whenever and wherever they come across. This trend had continued unabated till date.
All these years, the common people have been kept under much pressure. Very often to do things under the diktat of the UGs wherever they have their control over the people. As a result the common people have come to think and speak that Konyaks and Tangkhuls do not like each other, they cannot see eye to eye. If they meet, they will kill eachother. No Tangkhul will dare to go to Mon area; the abode of the Konyaks and no Konyaks will dare to visit Ukhrul, the home of the Tangkhuls. If anyone venture out into the territories of the other he/she may not come back alive.
This was the common remark of many people including those who are in the top positions. I was also made to feel and belief that Konyaks do hate Tangkhuls. Considering the situations, I had a desire, a dream to go right into the heart of the Konyaks and meet them, interact with them, share pleasantries and hurt feelings with one another, talk about what we wish to happen in the future and plan together how we wish to build our land and our nation. I had a feeling that if we the people interact better and more frequently, definitely we will be able to build up better rapport towards one another, bring understanding and trust towards one another so that love and peace prevail among the people, beginning between the Tangkhuls and the Konyaks and then to spread to all other communities.
Yes, this was my dream that I would make my physical presence amid the Konyaks sooner or later so that it will mark the beginning of peace between not only common people but also between the two rival factions of the NSCN through the initiatives and influence of the common people. I belief that it will come true because everything is possible when there is mutual trust, respect and true love for one another.
Before I set out my journey to Mon, I was reminded and warned by many people that the situation is tense and that Tangkhuls going there will not be welcomed by anyone. There is more risk than prospect. But my desire to fulfill my dream was a stronger force than to be afraid of any threat. So I and my companions decided to move ahead to Mon. initially, we were a bit concerned because we did not know the road. Moreover there was none to lead us. But after prayer and putting all our trust in God’s hands, we ventured out to the unknown world. Yes, it is only Nagaland, the land of my fellow Nagas yet it has been more foreign to us than any other country as we are going there for the first time.
As we drove along the N.H.39 into Assam and later taking the road via Golaghat to Jorhat, we were confused sometimes whenever we came across some road crossing. As usual, we enquired from the passers by the road we want to take, all the people were so gentle and directed us to the right tract. We drove along passing through several places of tea garden and tea estates, towns and cities. When we reached Assam and Nagaland border called Namsa, I could see the differences immediately. There the people were dressed differently, the soft Assamese language turned to kuchha Nagamese, the faces were different and most of all, the houses made lots of difference. Most of the houses in Nagaland side of the border had thatch roofs and the walls are bamboos. Slowly we started driving uphill and as we went up higher, the whole mountain seemed to be covered by very thick fog. Driving through it was a challenge. I found that the climate and the vegetations were just as in my own place. The people there also have cultivated on the hills (Jhum) just like us. The crops grown on the jhum fields very much like ours. I felt as if I was going to my own village.
When we reached Mon town, we found that the town roads were under construction. It was muddy and slippery. We were received by a young man in the town and led us to the president’s house. As I got down from the car, I heaved a sigh of relief for we could reach there safe and sound. To our delight, Mr. Tiger Tingnei, an elderly man of above 70 extended his hand warmly towards us and introduced himself as the president of the Konyak Union (KU). He is the head of 3.25 lakhs Konyak population; two of the KU vice-presidents were also present with him. They were sitting at the outer part of the traditional Morung (Mens Club) where women are not allowed to enter (if any women enters the Morung a fine of Rs.500 is imposed). Mr.Tiger continuously chews pan/tamul.
To my pleasure, I found that the Konyak people are very hospitable. Immediately as we arrived we were served with a nice cup of tea and quickly followed by hot and delicious lunch served by Mrs. Tiger Chubala, the 1st Lady and another cute girl. After the lunch, many leaders representing the Konyak Mothers Association, Konyak Students’ Union and others gathered in the Konyak Union Office Hall for a joint meeting with us arranged by the Konyak Union. In the meeting, our team members and other leaders exchanged views and concern for the Naga political issue. Everyone felt very strongly that the killing among Naga brothers in arms should be stopped at all cost, that inspite of the fact that several attempts have been made by different organizations in the past to unify the three groups, yet unsuccessfully, we must try to find new modalities to bring together through reconciliation. The leaders liked the ideas and concern shared by our team. Mr.Tiger Tingnei assured us of every possible support and co-operation from the Konyak to any move who works for the unity and progress of the Naga people. He said so on behalf of the 3.25 lakh Konyak population. That was really sounding like telling me that my dream will one day come true. The desire to pray for peace and unity of the Nagas in every meeting we had, assured me that God will surely listen to the cry of His Naga people.
Our team had the opportunity to meet some key leaders of the NSCN (K) group the next day (17/6) at their cease Fire Supervisory Board Office. When our team presented our vision and mission, the purpose of our visit to Mon, we were reciprocated in a warm and friendly gesture. They appeared very open and receptive to our suggestions. Even though they expressed their anger and dislikes towards the other camp sometimes, it was also true that they are also not feeling good about the killings among brothers. They also expressed that they ill co-operate to our vision and mission so that the now divided Naga family will come together once again and work together towards achieving our common goal. Before we departed from Mon, I got a pleasant surprise from one of my childhood friend who is married to a Konyak gentleman of Mon. we exchanged our long time sweet memories on phone. When I asked her ‘how are you doing?’ she said “I’ am living just as one of their women” (Konyak women). Yes, that is it. The message is, she was a Tangkhul, married to a Konyak, yet there is no difference between the two. As long as there is mutual love and respect towards one another, there is peace and harmony. No difference in looks, blood, issue or race. Even though we speak different languages, follow a little different customs and culture, all are human beings, members of the Naga family.
With this humble beginning the spontaneous and warm response from the people, I feel that it is not too far off to achieve my long standing dream. It will be possible, yes it will come true when all the people come forward and join hands to restore our lost peace and love all the Naga brothers and the whole Naga family.
Yes, the time will come to build up the broken Naga family into a strong and prosperous Nation through a wonderful grace and power of God when all the Naga brethren forgive one another, be reconciled and unite to work together as one. Kuknalim
The Indo-Naga Political Dialogue: How to Stomp the Blues By Rev. Dr. Wati Aier the Morung Express

“In all of Lester Young’s finest solos (as in Ellington’s always ambivalent foxtrots) there are overtones of unsentimental sadness that suggest that he was never unmindful of human vulnerability and was doing what he was doing with such imperturbable casualness he had seen, been beset by, and somehow survived. In a sense, the elegance of earned self-togetherness and with-it-ness so immediately evident of the somewhat painful but nonetheless charismatic parade-ground strut of the campaign-weary soldier who has been there one more time and made it back in spite of hell and high water with shrapnel exploding all around him.” - Albert Murray, Stomping the Blues (1976)
The fifty-five plus years of Naga camaraderie to preserve and protect its political de facto has been deeply traumatic for Nagas and the Government of India (GOI). Five decades have hardly healed various political, psycho-spiritual traumas.
There is disillusionment in the lack of political will, which is simply to say, the capacity to be a subordinate is lacking. The ability to submit and respect others is a sign of maturity and wholesome identity, which ultimately guides pre and post-decisions of the government, thus becoming an essential aspect of any sustained political action and decision.
The Nagas and the GOI have their own blind spots in their memories. However, if these blind spots become too large or too serious, they can deprive the Nagas and the GOI of a much needed win-win outcome. It will also prevent a timely correction of mistakes and lead to a path of disaster in which both the parties become victims. Should we not learn from the typology of either a win-lose or a lose-win paradigm? An apathetic, inattentive, careless and uninspired approach on the part of the political status quo will only awaken and reinforce the other party. In this case, the Nagas will continue to preserve and protect her political de facto as in the past, with renewed and more informed democratic vistas.
Needless to say, India fought for her rights at the hand of imperialistic-colonial powers. At the moment, does one not see the imperialist elite casting itself as a defender of India under the guise of democracy? Subversive propaganda of all forms, ranging from divide and rule policies, alignments, coalitions, and psychological warfare have been ineffective. No civilized nation should resort to such kakistocracy.
Although seemingly “divided”, the Nagas are never divided in their political rights. This is the paradox of the Naga heritage and spirit. This uniqueness is akin to all indigenous peoples of the world and is drawn from a primordial and ancestral being in unity with common aspirations. It is the soul of the Nagas that will not die nor perish in their political struggle.
In this long road to freedom, for the second time Nagas have entered into a political talk with the Government of India; the latter acknowledging the “uniqueness of Naga history.” This moment belongs to the Nagas and the GOI to reclaim their common heritage and rights. Let no kakistocrats or any other force deny or sidetrack one of the world’s longest freedom movements in modern history.

Bold Moves Editorial the Morung Express
Bringing together political leaders into a common forum is not always an easy task given the intractable conflict and the near zero level communication that usually define their (dis)association. One of the first steps in ameliorating this discord would be to re-establish channels of communication between parties who otherwise would find it difficult to meet or acknowledge any contact and in improving the quality of communication and consequently of understanding across conflict lines. The recent news report about the meeting of the Manipur based Naga National Party (NNP) with leaders of the NSCN (K) in Mon therefore augurs well for the Naga people.
This bold initiative taken by the NNP members, who are mostly drawn from the southern Naga areas, to undertake its peace mission to the Konyak people under Mon district is appreciated and is a step in the right direction. Full marks therefore to the NNP members for their courage of conviction to reach out to its fellow Naga citizenry despite the hurdles of geography and political divide. Likewise, the response of the people in Mon under the aegis of the Konyak Union and the open hand of friendship and hospitality extended to the visiting team is extremely encouraging and such type of people to people interaction has to be promoted in order to help create better understanding and amity.
For the Nagas today, finding peace in these tumultuous times of fratricidal conflict is a difficult and sometimes impossible task. As hard as it may be, the continuation of killings and political violence will only perpetuate hatreds and stimulate vengefulness, further fueling the continuation of the conflict. It is time for those who are concerned; to help restore peaceful coexistence among the different factions. The first step for this to happen would be to make attempts in reducing tensions and create an environment in which the causes of conflict can be addressed and peace can be achieved through a dialogue process.
For this, what is required is an environment that is conducive for discussion to take place, and to give the factions the opportunity to develop contacts, exchange views, explore differences, and search for common ground on sensitive issues. The first step is also usually the most difficult and the objective of such an exercise is not to find a solution, but to lessen or remove the poison and distrust in the atmosphere with the hope that it would facilitate other options. A process of dialogue must begin soon.
It is well accepted that respecting one another is the first positive step in building a relationship and relationships are central to conflict transformation. One need not have to like a person or understand his or her viewpoint to accord them respect. Respect comes with the belief that a person or group can have beliefs contradictory to theirs but still honoring them. Empowering the political process by encouraging people centered initiatives like the one undertaken by the NNP or the recent truce signed between the NSCNs under the aegis of the Sumi Hoho has to be given priority. This will help in developing and stabilizing mutually beneficial interaction while realistically taking full measure of the obvious political complexities involved. There is no doubt that people to people contact can help in building up a large constituency for peace which in turn can act as a catalyst in the political process. People to people diplomacy should therefore be given the importance that it deserves which in turn can be used to strengthen the political process from the bottom. New Delhi clears thorn in road to peace in Assam By Syed Zarir Hussain, Indo-Asian News Service Guwahati, June 23 (IANS) New Delhi's positive signals in brokering peace with a dominant separatist group in the northeastern state of Assam could help end close to three decades of bloodshed in the region. On Thursday, Home Minister Shivraj Patil took a considerate stand by removing one of the biggest stumbling blocks between peace and violence by virtually agreeing to release five top jailed leaders of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA).
The announcement was made after the third round of peace talks held in New Delhi between ULFA representatives and government peace negotiators led by Patil. ULFA's demand for releasing five of its senior leaders currently in jail on charges ranging from murder to secession was seen as one of the last big thorns in the road to peace. ULFA, which has been fighting for an independent Assamese homeland since 1979, last October appointed an 11-member People's Consultative Group (PCG) comprising prominent civil society members to represent it in the talks with the government. The stage is now set for direct talks between the elusive ULFA leadership led by chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa and commander-in-chief Paresh Baruah - according to Indian intelligence officials, both were believed to be operating out of Bangladesh in carrying out their hit-and-run guerrilla strikes in Assam.
Patil said during the talks that New Delhi would consider the 'issue of releasing five jailed ULFA leaders in consultation with the Assam government'. The Assam government had already announced it was ready to release the jailed ULFA leaders for the greater interest of peace. 'We have made our position very clear that we mean business. We are ready to release some of the jailed leaders if that could bring the ULFA leaders for direct talks with the government and in turn bring permanent peace to the region,' Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi told IANS. The ball is now is in the ULFA's court. The rebel leadership now has to come clear on two counts - not backtrack on holding talks once the jailed leaders are released and assure that the outfit would not indulge in violent acts during the peace process. Similarly, the authorities would also have to show restraint in conducting anti-insurgency operations so that it does not derail the peace process. Both the ULFA and the government should be sensitive and respect the wishes of the people of Assam who are craving for peace.
Some intelligence and police officials are sceptical on the issue of releasing the jailed rebels - and they have every reason to be so. The last round of direct talks between ULFA rebels and the Indian government took place in New Delhi in 1992 after the government released five rebel leaders from jail for the negotiations. The talks ended abruptly after the five ULFA rebels - who were released from prison for the dialogue with then Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao - went underground. 'The situation then was quite different from now. Our leadership is very keen to resolve the conflict through negotiations,' jailed ULFA leader Pranati Hazarika said while being brought to a local court for a trial. The ULFA is one of the most organised militant groups in India's northeast, where more than 30 rebel groups operate with demands ranging from secession to greater autonomy. At least 15,000 people have lost their lives to insurgency in Assam since 1979 when the ULFA, the state's first rebel group, was founded.
Clear signal for army to resume anti-ULFA operations Nine months after the UPA government pulled back the Indian Army from the Tinsukia forests in Assam in the midst of an operation against ULFA...
Nine months after the UPA government pulled back the Indian Army from the Tinsukia forests in Assam in the midst of an operation against ULFA, the Defence Ministry this week gave it the go ahead to resume operations against the militant outfit. The Army's formations in Assam have received word from the Defence Ministry that the operations against ULFA must get going. In a letter to the Tezpur-based 4 Corps with inputs from the Military Operations directorate, South Block has essentially clarified that with the Assembly Elections in Assam complete, it was time for operational duties to continue. Officially, the Army neither confirmed nor denied the Defence Ministry's instructions, but indicated that ''forces were carrying out their duties'' and that ''the Defence Ministry's instructions are ongoing for a counter-insurgency scenario.''
The Indian Express had first reported late last year how the Army cordon around an ULFA camp in the Dibrugarh-Saikhowa National Park in upper Assam in September last was effectively called off at the last minute, apparently for political reasons. Since then, the government has been under pressure from the Left to talk with the ULFA but not to call off operations. The Defence Ministry's word, copied to Integrated Defence Headquarters and the Army's Eastern Command in Kolkata, come in the light of a meeting of the Unified Command on June 11. Chaired by Assam chief secretary S Kabilan, the state government had asked for clarity from the Centre, which was represented by Home Ministry joint secretary for the North East Rajiv Agarwal, on what the approach, dialogue or operations, was to be taken in battling the outfit. The Defence Ministry's word this week is therefore a clear answer. The restraint ordered by the Centre during the September-2005 operation in the Tinsukia forests came at the last minute, a move still looked at with a tinge of bewilderment by the Army, especially since the troops were about to close in on the ULFA camp. The internal security establishment has persistently reported that the ULFA is responsible for the sporadic blasts since the September-2005 operation and that there needs to be clarity between the Centre and state on which approach to be used. Talks between the People's Consultative Group (PCG), which represents the militant outfit, and the Centre ended today.
Manipur national convention begins in Imphal Sobhapati Samom Assam Tribune
IMPHAL, June 22 – With the active participation of hundreds of Manipuris living beyond the State boundary, the fifth Manipur National Convention was inaugurated at the D M College campus here this morning. The noted singer and former director of Doordarshan Kendra Nongmaithem Pahari was the chief guest at the inaugural function wherein many Manipuris living in the States of Asom, Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland along with their friends in Manipur turned to take part in the five-day exchange and interaction sessions. This is first time two influential student bodies of Manipur – All Manipur Students Union, Democratic Students’ Alliance of Manipur in association with the North East Students Coordinating Committee on Manipuri identity organized the historic convention in the heart of Imphal town.

The basic motive behind organizing such a gathering is to deliberate on important issues concerning the Manipuri nation and to consolidate the efforts of all the Manipuris inhabiting various parts of the globe so as to awaken the Manipuris for regeneration of a new Manipuri society. According to the organizers, the convention will redefine and specify the Manipuri national identity apart from discussing the issue relating to the threat posed by the population dilution and issue of uncountable migrants in the region. The convention is also likely to discover the paradox in education and also to highlight the problems of Manipuri economy in its discussion which will continue till June 25. Today’s academic session was chaired by former Vice Chancellor of the Manipur University, Prof I S Khaidem. Many cultural items and dance sequences displayed by different communities living in the State as well as those coming from other parts of the North Eastern States marked the first day’s inaugural session.

Five jailed ULFA leaders to be released; modalities to be prepared for direct talks Talks: Delhi springs a surprise By a Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI, June 22: Setting aside apprehensions as to whether it would show sincerity in holding direct talks with the ULFA, New Delhi today sprang a surprise by assuring the release of five top jailed ULFA leaders, a demand which the banned outfit has been consistently making before the direct talks could be held.
The development is seen as a good augury in view of the contradictions that came to the fore in the aftermath of the recent spurt in violence allegedly carried out by the outfit across the State.
“The Home Ministry decided to favourably consider the release of five jailed leaders of the ULFA in consultation with the State Government and to work out modalities for holding direct talks with the insurgent group within a fixed time-frame,” PCG member Lachit Bordoloi told The Sentinel over phone from New Delhi after the crucial third round of talks, the last with the select group. During the two-and-half hour meeting, the PCG argued that the five jailed ULFA leaders — vice president Pradeep Gogoi, political advisor Bhimkanta Buragohain alias Mama, cultural secretary Pranati Deka, publicity secretary Mithinga Daimary and Ramu Mech — should be freed as they were members of the outfit’s central executive council which has to meet to take the peace process forward. Besides Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, today’s meeting with the PCG was attended by National Security Advisor MK Narayanan, Home Secretary VK Duggal and Intelligence Bureau Chief ESL Narasimhan. Interlocutors Dr Mamoni Raisom Goswami and Reboti Phukon were also present. Simultaneously, the Home Minister urged the PCG to impress upon ULFA to ensure a peaceful and conducive environment so that direct talks with the Government of India are held at the earliest, a statement issued by the PCG in New Delhi stated.
This is for the first time in 27 years — since the ULFA came into existence — that the Centre has agreed to hold direct talks with the outfit. “The PCG is satisfied at the positive approach of the Home Minister to the negotiations that will help usher in lasting peace in Asom,” Bordoloi said.
The need to restrain operations by both sides — government and ULFA — was another key issue of focus in the talks. Modalities for direct talks between the ULFA and the Centre in a fixed time-frame would be worked out through mutual consultations, the statement said, adding that the meeting concluded with the hope that there would be restraint on all sides. Quoting Home Secretary VK Duggal as telling reporters in New Delhi, “While the government has urged the ULFA to maintain peace and create a conducive atmosphere for direct talks, we will also ensure such an atmosphere is there.” On the time-frame for the direct talks, Duggal said, “It will be at the earliest”.