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09/14/2006: "`Constitution remains primary but Naga talks making headway`The Imphal Free Press"


`Constitution remains primary but Naga talks making headway`The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Sept 13: Union Minister,Oscar Fernandez has said that even though the solution of the cease-fire extension between the centre and the NSCN (IM) won`t come easy, he is optimistic to find out a solution and every effort is being made to sort out substantial issues involved during the one year extension of the peace talk.
The minister, who made the statement in a press conference held today at the MPCC office, Imphal however declined to go into details. Oscar Fernandez, while answering a query on the breaking of ground rules by the NSCN(IM) said that there is a positive direction in this matter and in the coming days ceasefire will be effectively maintained.

On the demands for the separate educational policy for the Nagas in the four hill district of the state by some Naga NGO`s and students, he maintained that education is a state subject and (even) if the NSCN(IM) wanted to include the matter in their substantive issues, the government will abide by the constitution and there is so ambiguity about it. He also expressed confidence that there will be a forward movement in the peace process with some UG group based in the state within a reasonable time and said a concerted effort is being made in this regard.

He also said that there is a need for public leaders to take initiative for it to succeed as in other states. On the forthcoming Manipur state Assembly elections, Fernandez said the election commission can take whatever necessary steps to ensure free and fair elections.

He said that CPI, a partner of Congress led SPF government in the state had good relations with the Congress and revealed that he had an informal chat with AB Bardhan, general secretary, CPI yesterday who is also in the state for political reasons. Refering to the merger of the MSCP with the Congress, the minister said, the matter has already been referred to the party high command and it is left to the state leaders to decide.

He also said that while in his stay in the state he had visited RIMS hospital, Khuman Lampak Stadium and Central Manipur University. He was briefed about the state of affairs by the chief minister. The union minister had also expressed happiness over the signs of fast pace of development in the NE states which he stated is emerging towards a world class generation.

With the launching of the proposed sports academy he further expected more international level sports personality from the state. On the other hand, he said that the centre will extend all possible help to upgrade the RIMS in a world class standard medical institute

Oscar reiterates commitment to Naga talks Newmai News Network
Imphal Union minister, Oscar Fernandes said in Imphal today that all efforts would be made to sort out substantive issues involved in the ongoing peace talk with the NSCN (IM) during the added year of extension of the cease-fire. Fernandes, who is one of New Delhi’s representatives holding negotiations with NSCN (IM) leadership visited Manipur yesterday afternoon and he left Imphal this morning. He visited the state to take stock of affairs of the Manipur Congress (I).
Talking to newsmen before leaving Imphal this morning Fernandes said he is optimistic to find out a solution, but refused to disclose details. He said disclosing everything at this stage will not be in the interest of the peace process. Fernandes, however, said that everything would be made public when something concrete could be worked out during the forthcoming negotiations. He did not say when the peace talk will resume. On cease fire ground rules of the NSCN (IM) cadres the Union minister said, in the coming days, cease-fire ground rules will be implemented effectively. Much more will be done in the coming days on the observance of ground rules. Replying to a question on the stance of the Centre on the demand for separate education policy like adoption Nagaland syllabus in the four hill distrticts of Manipur as being demanded by the Naga organizations the Union minister said education as a state subject is to be tackled by the state.
Commenting on the recent visit by a delegation of Naga organizations to Delhi to pay hill house tax of Nagas living in Ukhrul, Senapati, Chandel and Tamenglong districts Fernandes said there is no provision of the Centre to collect hill house tax. It is to be collected by the state government. He reiterated that these are state subjects and the Manipur government can tackle with these problems. Fernandes also disclosed that there will be a forward movement of peace process with some militant groups in Manipur within reasonable time.
On the holding a free and fair Manipur assembly elections, he said that the Election Commission can take whatever necessary steps to hold smooth polling. He said the CPI, a partner in the Ibobi Singh’s Secular Progressive Front ministry is still in good relation with the Congress and he held informal chat yesterday with AB Vardhan, CPI general secretary now camping in Imphal.
Gen Kholi breaks silence “Solution lies with the Naga people provided all Nagas are united” Morung Express News Dimapur | September 13
In what will go down as a significant testimonial on the Naga political issue, the much revered Naga national leader General Kholi Konyak, Commander-in-Chief, Naga Army of the NSCN (K) humbly appealed for restoring unity among the Nagas. “Sometimes, tears run down my face, considering the present Naga political scenario, but our leaders have failed to understand the ill effects of today’s unrest. Therefore, I humbly appeal to my people to work hard for unity among the Nagas for our future”, Gen Kholi stated in a rare statement received here.
Nothing will be achieved unless a consensus is formulated from among the Nagas Addressing his former comrade in arms Isak Chishi Swu and Th Muivah, now Chairman and General Secretary of the NSCN (IM), Gen Kholi raised the issue of how a great number of innocent Nagas had been killed as a result of the Naga imbroglio. “Do you remember what greatest crime our cadres have committed before God and our Naga fellows? Was it not under you (Isak and Muivah) did our cadres slaughter the following innocent Nagas when were working together?” Gen Kholi stated and disclosed how around 1500 innocent persons were killed across the Naga homeland.
Gen Kholi also disclosed about the order given by Isak and Muivah to one Captain Shing-O to kill 17 officers belonging to five different tribes.
“This was the system of Isak-Muivah administration which is directly responsible for today’s unrest in Nagaland”, Gen Kholi maintained and charged that even today, both leaders had not “quenched their thirst for blood”.
On the bitterness between the Changs and Konyaks, the General pointed out that this was created by Maj. Hao Tangkhul who on August 20, 1986 attacked the Village Guard post of Yimpang and Taknyu, which “Chang brothers blamed on innocent Konyaks”. But neither Chang nor Konyak can forsake each other under any circumstances, because they are from the same womb having the same blood, Gen Kholi stated.
Besides, Gen Kholi disclosed that in between 1985-1999, about 383 innocent Naga public were felled under the bullets of the NSCN (IM) and how even those from the Naga Army were murdered on the charges of coming late from their out pass leave.
“The despotic, chauvinistic and merciless of our leaders proved to be an unfortunate factor that brought about the ceaseless bloodshed in Nagaland as we see today”.
The General also described the political situation in Nagaland as “getting deteriorated” and blamed this on the presence of “anti-Naga elements in our society”.
“I am fortunate to witness and experience the causes of today’s unrest in Nagaland”, he pointed and blamed “anti-Naga, anti-peace, autocratic and despotic character of some of our leaders” to be the main reasons which had divided and still divide the Nagas into different camps. “Till now these leaders befool the Nagas by staying in foreign countries at the expenses of the Nagas, leaving them behind at the mercy of these anti-Naga elements”, he was quoted as saying and that these people “will achieve nothing than invite the wrath of the Nagas and curse of the living God”.
Message to Over-ground leaders: “All my over ground leaders, your prime duty is to unite all the Nagas, but your one-sided support to the Isak-Muivah group shows of your irresponsibility and instead your actions adds more fuel to the burning fire of fratricides in our society. You know that you have committed serious mistake in Naga political history by becoming a shadow members of Isak group. Therefore my appeal to you is to work for unity among the Nagas, which is the only means for an everlasting peace and solution for the Nagas”

Message to educated Nagas and intellectual groups: “And my Naga educated and intellectual groups. You also should stop writing inflammable and insulting articles in support of either of the faction so as to create the atmosphere of peace for Naga unity”.
“Those Naga leaders believe on foreign countries forgetting that solution lies with the Naga people provided all Nagas are united together. Nothing will be achieved unless a consensus is formulated from among the Nagas”, Gen Kholi stated in no uncertain terms.
Raising issues with Isak and Muivah, the General questioned as to whether the two had achieved anything by way of their destructive policy. “I repeatedly told both of you and the NNC leaders not to shed blood of Naga leaders under any circumstances. When both of you were kept under the Naga Army custody in 1978, I the same man (Gen Kholi) saved your lives and gave you a new lease of life. You as emotional leaders may deny it, but God knows what was going on. Your arrogance and pride brought about today’s unrest in Nagaland”, the General remarked. He also questioned V.S Atem on what his achievement was in visiting Tuensang town and “misguiding the Chang brothers? “Every action carries with it its equal reaction”.
Grace Collins is a ‘friend of the Nagas’: NSCN (I-M) The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, SEPT 13 (MExN): Reacting to the accusations leveled against Grace Lyu Collins by the NSCN (K), the NSCN (I-M) today said: “Through media and activities, Khaplang philosophy of nationalism has been sufficiently revealed in itself of their fallacy. People no more have taste for shameful media propagandas, libels or defamations.”
The MIP of the NSCN (I-M) clarified that Grace Collins is a resource person at the Geneva United Nations World Human Rights Commission. The Yaruiwo of the organization Isak Chishi Swu met Grace during a conference of the United Nations Human Rights Commission held at Geneva in 2003, where he tabled “the Indo-Naga issue and the human rights violations being committed by the Indian agencies upon the Naga people,” the MIP release said. “It was through this introduction of the Naga people’s plight that first captured the attention of Grace Collins that led to further intense interactions and earned her sympathies for the Naga people’s sufferings.”
The organization further said that it was through ‘the friends of the Nagas’ that it could be declared in the international forum that “India had violated 25 human rights violations in Nagalim, out of the 30 United Nations charters of Human Rights violations.”
Maintaining that they do not pay the friends of the Nagas “for what they are sacrificing for us, but we owe to them the gratitude of at least thanking and praying and them,” the NSCN (I-M) appealed, “It is the sincere appeal of the GPRN to all well-wishers and friends of the Nagas that whatever vulgarity of unfounded accusations issued by the Khaplang group should be ignored in its entirety because it does not represent the sentiments or thoughts of the Nagas.”
The release also questioned, “If the Khaplang people are in their right frame of mind and truly fighting for the Naga people’s cause, why would they condemn, criticize, threaten, insult or issue libels against all the Civil societies, friends of the Naga and International communities who are tirelessly working for the Nagas’ cause by unveiling the truth?”
Oscar keeps ‘talks card’ close to chest By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Sep 13: Terming the one year ceasefire extension period as an important phase in the ongoing Government of India and NSCN (IM) peace parleys towards finding a solution, Union Minister Oscar Fernandez expressed confidence that the next round of talks would be able to sort out substantial issues involved.
Talking to newsmen this morning, Fernandez, who is leading the Centre’s team in negotiating with the NSCN (IM) leadership said he is optimistic of thrashing out a solution.
The AICC General Secretary, however, declined to discuss details saying ‘everything would be disclosed after the talks are over’.
“It is not an issue that we can resolve in a day’s time. At the moment we are able to extend the ceasefire by another year. This issue has been raised since the last fifty years. In this one year period we’d like to discuss the main issues”, Oscar maintained during the crowded press conference at Congress Bhavan before wrapping up his two-day State visit.
“I think in the next coming months we would be able to take up some substantive issues for the discussions. I’m very optimistic that we can find it ultimately and we should be able to find it. I’m very sure that within a reasonable period of time, there would be some initiatives and some forward movements would be seen”, he observed. Explaining on his reluctance to elaborate details of the negotiations, he stated that it is not in the interest of either parties involved. To a poser on the rebel group violating the ceasefire ground rules by allegedly continuing extortion activities, the Congress leader who is also in charge of Party’s north east affairs contended that the problem is for the people of the State to deal with it. “In the last peace talks these were the main issues which we had taken up and there had been a positive moment of inclining towards the right perspective which I think you will find much better very soon,” he said.
When urged to expound centre’s stance to the ‘non-cooperation movement’ launched by some Naga NGOs against the Manipur government the Congress leader observed it is not only a state subject but is very much under the purview of the state government.
As such the demands for affiliation of schools in the four districts of Manipur to Nagaland board of School Education cannot be taken up by the centre, Fernandez said while adding that if anything is to be done on the issue it is the prerogative of the state.
He also informed that there is no provision in the Centre to collect house tax when a section of the media raised the question of handing over house tax to the central Government.
To another query on what would be the Centre’s position in case the NSCN (IM) insist that the non-cooperation movement be endorsed and discussed in the next talks, Oscar responded “What is within our purview we did it and what is not we cannot”.
The Minister asserted that if the NSCN (IM) wanted to include the matter in their substantive issues, the Government will abide by the Constitution and there is no ambiguity about it.
Fernandez also disclosed there will be a forward movement of peace process with some underground outfits in the State within a reasonable time.
Commenting on the law and order situation he said it is for the state to seek the support of the centre if it is beyond their help. The centre does the rescue of the state by extending whatever support is put forth by the state. He also recalled the recent CMs’ meeting convened by the Prime Minister to discuss the law and order and security aspects in all the State.
On the holding to State Assembly elections, Fernandez said the Election Commission of India can take whatever necessary steps to ensure free and fair poll in its wisdom.
He claimed that the SPF coalition partner CPI is still in good relation with the Congress-led Government and revealed of this sentiment echoed during an informal chat he had with CPI General Secretary AB Bardhan who is also in the State. Referring to the security aspect for the forthcoming polls, he suggested that requirement for additional security force from other States for the polls would have to be assessed by the state and subsequently propose the matter to the EC. The centre will stand by the requirement of the ECI, he added.

'K' urged to roll back quit notice Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 13: Expressing grave concern, the presidential council of the United Naga Council (UNC) has appealed to the NSCN (K) to reconsider the 'Quit Notice' served on the Tangkhul community in Nagaland.
In a joint statement signed by 12 Naga bodies including Ng Gilbert (president, CNPO) M Dilli (president NPO), D Dikambui (president, ZU AMN), R Jindashing (president Moyon tribe), KAdani Choro (president Mei Mai Mao Tribe), Ts Ngamtin, (president Monsang Tribe), Th Angrung Maring )president Maring tribe) MLMarkson (president Poumai tribe), H Khangba (president Thangal tribe), Kh Paul (president Chothe tribe), L Hingba (president Maram tribe) and Nula Kono, (president Anal tribe), it urged the NSCN faction to review the decision on humanitarian ground as it is the desire of the Naga people to sort out any differences through mutual understanding and dialogue.
Expressing optimism, the Naga bodies said that the Naga peoples effort to build understanding and oneness among the Naga family is a unwavering stand to establish a cordial atmosphere for reconciliation and hoped that NSCN (K) take a more lenient stand on the matter.

The Naga bodies while taking strong exception also termed the recent news reports and articles issued by P Gangte in recent time as unfortunate and uncalled for.
Sympathizing with the sentiments of both the Kukis and the Nagas arising out of the Kuki-Naga conflict in the early 90s, the statement said that Naga people have strived for normalcy and peace.

Towards arriving at an understanding between the conflicting communities, KIM and the UNC initiated a human approach to build confidence and defuse misunderstanding, the statement said.
The bodies also urged all to maintain harmony.
Quit notice and voice of the people In Focus The Morung Express
• Sir – The Memei Hoho with the deepest sadness and seriousness draw the attention of the NSCN (K) group of Kilonsers on the Quit Notice (Q N) served to the Tangkhuls residing in the Nagaland state.
The Tangkhuls are Nagas by blood, but by flesh they are in the political territory of Manipur, the Nagas outside the territory of Nagaland state were happy when the Nagaland Territory was detached from Assam and formed the Nagaland state. During the formative days, quite many Nagas from outside the Nagaland state specially from Manipur were employed as Nagaland government servants and were grateful to the good God and to the then Chief Minister T N Angami and all the good MLAs.
The grand design for a Naga sovereign state was started by our greatest Naga leader A Z Phizo and taken over by the two faction of the NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K).
In the course of the 58years of the Naga uprising, thousands died fighting, thousands of national workers and Naga civilians were butchered, thousands were maimed by the Indian establishment and hundreds died fighting amount the Naga in power struggle which is being continued till to this moment. This however is not a surprise in the liberation movements. In politics, break up, coming together and application of various formulae and policies are applied. Even resorting to meaner means for the better or the worst are a matter of routine. But who are at the receiving end of these power games? It is the innocent general public and the cadres of the liberation group(s).
To cease the process of bloodshed and other sad issues, its people’s organization, other outside organization and individuals give opinions and expound modalities to solve the problems.
The present hot issue of Q N slapped on the Tangkhuls residing in the over ground Nagaland state by NSCN (K) is not applicable. For pro Indian stance of Ex-Chief Ministers, Uncle Hokishe Sumi, S C Jamir and pro Meitei and pro Indian Rishang Keishing Tangkhul (names arranged alphabetically) for vested interest, can one accuse all the Sumis, Aos and Tangkhuls as enemy of the Nagas? In the circumstances, actions had to be taken up on individual or group basis of the conflicting factions. One considers the NSCN-K group of kilonsers had stuck to the quit notice after due consideration of backlash that may follow in one form or the other. The ultimate result maybe more bloodshed which is most undesirable. Factional and national struggle cannot be pushed if it completely goes against the opinion of the people. Eyebrows had being raised by the Naga liberation watcher in the European country. The flaying of Naga Hoho (NH) and the Naga Student’s Federation (NSF) who are conscience keepers are taken with the greatest sadness and will bounce negative result. In this cease fire, peace process, as well as in other times, the Naga Hoho and NSF represent the grass root level Nagas and the voices and opinion are to be reckoned. To gain support by consent or bulldoze them will indicate the leadership qualities.
Issued by: Publicity, Public Relation office Memei Hoho (Mao Council) Tadubi, Senapati District
‘No need for imposition of Meitei Mayek’ By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Sep 13: There is no need for forced imposition of Meitei Mayek in hill districts as every body would learn it on their own, said president of Kuki Inpi Manipur P Gangte while speaking on the 6th foundation day of the National Identity Protection Committee today at Kuki Inn. The celebration attended by leaders of different communities was graced by president of Kuki Inpi Manipur P Gangte, chairman of Zeliangrong Union Imphal Zone R Chandra Haomei, former chairman of Koireng Literature Society Kungsong Wanbe and president of NIPCO Y Nabachandra as presidium members.
Speaking on the occasion, Gangte reminded that before the advent of any kind of information tech-nology in Manipur, the peo- ple of the State collectively safeguarded its boun -dary without any reservation and there was no threat to the boundary from within.
At one time, there was a deep running discrimination against the tribal people particularly in the valley but today there is no or very little discrimination against any group in the State, he observed. But what is disheartening is that among the different indigenous groups of people of the State who have been co-existing peacefully since ages, there is little faith among them today and a serious question is hanging over the issue of integrity of Manipur.
Taking into account of the unfolding scenario, the State Government as well as all the civil organisations need to give a serious thought to the issue and to devise a pragmatic course of action to save the integrity of the State, remarked retired IPS P Gangte.
He opined that the time was not favourable as of now to press for imposition of Meitei Mayek in hill districts. In addition to the existing unfavourable situation, the script is currently embroiled in an impasse over the genuineness of the two sets of scripts, he noted.
Implementation of a scr-ipt of a language in educa- tional institutes which have been included in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Con-stitution is a thing that would certainly come on its own. There is no need for forced imposition. No Ma-nipuri could remain Meitei Mayek illiterate for long as is the lingua franca of the State, he said while cautio-ning that imposition of Meitei Mayek amidst the pre-vailing situation would be like arousing a hornets' nest.
R Chandra Haomei observed that the tense si- tuation in the State today is an outcome of the numerous voices of resentment. "While we continue to voi-ce our concerns and disap- proval, we need a serious introspection to rectify our mistakes inherent in ourselves", he noted.
India asks Myanmar to evict NE rebels The Nagaland Post
NEW DELHI, SEPT 13 (AGENCIES): India on Wednesday asked Myanmar to crackdown on Northeast Indian insurgent groups operating from that country as the two countries grappled with the boundary dispute on the first day of Home Secreatry level talks here.
Union Home Secretary V K Duggal, who led a 16-member Indian delegation at the annual talks, impressed on the Myanmar delegation about the need to launch a drive against the insurgents.
Describing the meeting as "most productive", Duggal said "We have discussed all the issues which includes security, border management, trade, drugs and smuggling besides free movement of people and release of prisoners."
Both sides, however, declined to elaborate on the question of a crackdown on the militants similar to 2003 Bhutan army's operation against ULFA or on the possibility of a joint operation. The sources said the Indian side took up the issue of insurgent groups like United Nationalist Liberation Front (UNLF) and People`s Liberation Army (PLA) operating from across the border. The Myanmarese delegation, while not acknowledging the presence of the insurgents on their territory, are understood to have promised to look into the issue raised by India, the sources said. The talks would resume on September 16, the last day of the four-day visit of the Myanmarese delegation which is visiting Ladakh tomorrow. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Brig Gen Phone Swe is leading the visiting delegation. India, the sources said, raised the issue of shifting of boundary pillars in Ukhrul and Chandel districts of Manipur allegedly by the Myanmarese army. However, the charge was denied by the Yangon delegation during the meeting. The Indian and Myanmarese delegations also discussed measures for maintaining calm at the border where the atmosphere is often vitiated due to unmarked boundaries running through rugged mountainous terrains. India shares 1,643km border with Myanmar and Arunachal Pradesh alone accounts for 520km followed by Mizoram 510km. Manipur shares 398km of its boundary with Myanmar and Nagaland another 258km.
Representatives of Assam rifles, intelligence agencies and ministries of external were also present at the meeting. The sources said the Indian side also expressed its willingness to share intelligence information to prevent drug and arms trafficking from across the border.
Both sides also discussed ways for further strengthening of cooperation in tackling the activities of arms smugglers, drug peddlers and other disruptive elements along the border. The status of various infrastructure projects in Myanmar, particularly in the road and power sectors for which the two countries have agreed to cooperate, was also reviewed. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is building a 151-km long Tamu-Kalemyo-Kalewa road in Myanmar and it is likely to offer to maintain the road. The Myanmarese delegation later called on Home Minister Shivraj Patil and invited him for a visit to Yangon besides presenting him a memento.
New effort: India-Myanmar to begin talks India Times

NEW DELHI: With the growing reports of northeast insurgent groups operating from Myanmar, India will press for measures to flush them out like Bhutan's crackdown on ULFA at the Home Secretary-level talks between the countries beginning on Wednesday.

Steps to curb smuggling of arms and ammunition and illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances will also be discussed at the four-day talks.

Sources in the security establishment say that insurgent groups from Manipur and Nagaland like ULFA, UNLF, PLA, NSCN(K) and NSCN(IM) are operating from Myanmar and New Delhi will utilise the opportunity to demand for flushing them out. They also cited instance of killing of some Assam Rifles personnel by insurgents a few months back.

Though Bhutan launched 'Operation All Clear' to flush out ULFA nearly three years ago, Myanmar has not so far agreed to similar action against Indian Insurgent Groups (IIGs). Effective border management will also figure at the meeting which is held annually to discuss issues related to maintenance of peace and tranquillity along the border. India shares 1,643 km border with Myanmar, and Arunachal Pradesh alone accounts for 520 km followed closely by Mizoram 510 km. Manipur shares 398 km of its international boundary with Myanmar and Nagaland another 258 km.
However, boundary dispute was very minor as only nine border pillars, all in Manipur, were points of contention. It was decided to put up a 10-km fence at Moreh in Manipur but work is yet to begin. Border management and fencing too are expected to be discussed at the talks. The issues are likely to be taken up in the light of recent reports regarding smuggling of Chinese grenades and counterfeit Indian currency through the Myanmar border. The northeastern states have been voicing concern over these issues, particularly peddling of drugs and arms, pointing out the importance of Myanmar as the gateway to East Asian countries from the strategic point of view.

While the Indian side will be led by Union Home Secretary VK Duggal, Deputy Minister Brig. Gen. Phone Swe will head the Myanmar side. Sources said during the last meeting, held at Yangon in October last year, issues relating to security, drug trafficking, border trade, border management and proposed infrastructure projects in Myanmar were discussed.

Both sides had agreed to further strengthen cooperation in tackling the activities of insurgents, arms smugglers, drug peddlers and other hostile elements along the India-Myanmar border.

The status of various infrastructure projects in Myanmar, particularly in the road and power sectors, for which the two countries have agreed to cooperate, was reviewed at the last meeting and a follow up is expected this time. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is building a 151-km long Tamu-Kalemyo-Kalewa road in Myanmar and it is likely to offer to maintain the road.

Indo-Myanmar talks on insurgency begin The Hindu
New Delhi, Sept. 14 (UNI): The 12th meeting of the Home Secretaries of India and Myanmar began here on Tuesday with focus on Indian insurgent groups present in Myanmar and effective border management between the two countries.
The meeting, which would continue till four days, began on a friendly note, a Home Ministry official said. The Indian delegation was led by Union Home Secretary, V K Duggal, and that of Myanmar by Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Brigadier General Phone Swe.
The meeting is part of an annual exercise between the two countries to discuss issues related to maintenance of peace and tranquility along the India-Myanmar border. Steps to curb smuggling of arms and ammunition, illicit trafficking in drugs and psychotropic substances and progress of various cross-border projects over which the two countries have agreed to cooperate will also be reviewed during the four-day talks. With insurgent groups from Manipur and Nagaland like ULFA, UNLF, PLA, NSCN (K) and NSCN (IM) operating from Myanmar, New Delhi will utilise the opportunity to request for flushing them out. Myanmar has not yet agreed to Bhutan like action against Indian Insurgent Groups (IIGs). India shares 1,643 km border with Myanmar, and Arunachal Pradesh alone accounts for 520 km followed closely by Mizoram with 510 km.
Manipur shares 398 km of its international boundary with Myanmar and Nagaland another 258 km. Boundary dispute are very minor as only nine border pillars, all in Manipur, were points of contention. It was decided to put up a 10-km fence at Moreh in Manipur, but work is yet to begin. Border management and fencing too are expected to be discussed at the talks. The issues are likely to be taken up in the light of recent reports regarding smuggling of Chinese grenades and counterfeit Indian currency through the Myanmar border. During the last meeting, held at Yangon in October last year, issues relating to security, drug trafficking, border trade, border management and proposed infrastructure projects in Myanmar were discussed. The delegation also called on Home Minister Shivraj Patil.
Delhi to Yangon : Flush out UGs Sangai Express
New Delhi, Sept 13 : India today asked Myanmar to crackdown on North East Indian insurgent groups operating from that country as the two countries grappled with the boundary dispute on the first day of Home Secreatry level talks here. Union Home Secretary VK Duggal, who led a 16-member Indian delegation at the annual talks, impressed on the Myanmar delegation about the need to launch a drive against the insurgents. Describing the meeting as “most productive”, Duggal said, “we have discussed all the issues which includes security, border management, trade, drugs and smuggling besides free movement of people and release of prisoners.”
Both sides, however, declined to elaborate on the question of a crackdown on the militants similar to 2003 Bhutan army's operation against ULFA or on the possibility of a joint operation.
The sources said the Indian side took up the issue of insurgent groups like United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and Peoples' Liberation Army (PLA) operating from across the border.
The Myanmarese delegation, while not acknowledging the presence of the insurgents on their territory, are understood to have promised to look into the issue raised by India, the sources said.
The talks would resume on September 16, the last day of the four-day visit of the Myanmarese delegation which is visiting Ladakh tomorrow. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Brig Gen Phone Swe is leading the visiting delegation. India, the sources said, raised the issue of shifting of boundary pillars in Ukhrul and Chandel districts of Manipur allegedly by the Myanmarese army. However, the charge was denied by the Yangon delegation during the meeting. The Indian and Myanmarese delegations also discussed measures for maintaining calm at the border where the atmosphere is often vitiated due to unmarked boundaries running through rugged mountainous terrains. India shares 1,643km border with Myanmar and Arunachal Pradesh alone accounts for 520km followed by Mizoram 510km. Manipur shares 398km of its boundary with Myanmar and Nagaland another 258km. Representatives of Assam Rifles, intelligence agencies and Ministries of External were also present at the meeting. The sources said the Indian side also expressed its willingness to share intelligence information to prevent drug and arms trafficking from across the border. Both sides also discussed ways for further strengthening of cooperation in tackling the activities of arms smugglers, drug peddlers and other disruptive elements along the border. The status of various infrastructure projects in Myanmar, particularly in the road and power sectors for which the two countries have agreed to cooperate, was also reviewed. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is building a 151-km long Tamu-Kalemyo- Kalewa road in Myanmar and it is likely to offer to maintain the road. The Myanmarese delegation later called on Home Minister Shivraj Patil and invited him for a visit to Yangon besides presenting him a memento. PTI

India renews plea for joint operation From Our Spl Correspondent Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, Sept 13 – Elusive insurgent outfits of the North East are likely to come under fresh pressure in neighbouring Myanmar, with the Government of India renewing its plea for coordinated operations against the militant outfits. The 12th national level meeting of the home secretaries of India and Myanmar got under way in a cordial atmosphere with the two sides exchanging notes on issues ranging from border management to drug enforcement to exchange of prisoners. Union Home Secretary, VK Duggal led the Indian team while the Myanmar delegation was led by deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Brigadier General Phone Swe.

On the first day of meeting, India sought Myanmar’s cooperation in flushing out militants, mainly those belonging to Manipur, in a Bhutan-like operation. Several of the militant outfits including NSCN (I-M) and Khaplang factions, ULFA, besides PLA, PREPAK, UNLF, KYKL, KCP among others have set up bases in the neighbouring country. According to sources, India has formally asked Myanmar to hand over 21 Manipuri militants, reportedly nabbed by Myanmar Army recently. India further raised the case of 142 fishermen languishing in jails.

The bitterness often associated with such talks with Bangladesh Government, was missing in case of Myanmar, which has so far tried to accommodate India’s concerns. The Army across the country has on several occasions now mounted operations against the North-east based militants.
As a quid pro quo, Assam Rifles also mounted operations against the Chin National Army operating out camps in Mizoram, last year. Camp Jupiter was demolished by the Indian troops, reportedly on request of the Myanmarese Government. In a reflection of the sense of bonhomie, India and Myanmar today discussed the possibility of exchanging prisoners languishing in each other’s prisons. At the last round, the two sides agreed to allow interrogation of nationals caught in each other’s territory. On the economic front also there was development, with proposals to set up nine border posts along the international border. India has proposed to pump in Rs 80 crore to set up integrated border check posts.
Myanmar also submitted counter proposals to settle the border dispute with Manipur. The proposal for settlement of the dispute was submitted by India last year. India, it may be mentioned has fenced part of the international border in Moreh sector mainly to check movement of militants and drugs trafficking. Arms trafficking and drugs smuggling have emerged as most serious threat for India. India has also advocated the idea of allowing free movement of indigenous People living on the two sides of the international border.
Meanwhile, talking to newsmen after the opening day’s meeting, Union home secretary said that it was a most positive meeting. All serious issues including border management, trade, drugs smuggling, exchange of prisoners were discussed, he added. The delegation later called on the Home minister, Shivraj Patil and extended invitation to him to visit Myanmar. Brig. Swe gave a memento painting with Gold Work on Lacquer to the Home minister.
Meanwhile, India and Myanmar today decided to go for a joint survey of the 28 kilometres of disputed border involving nive pillars. The survey is likely to start next month. Both the coutnries also decided to open another border check point at Pangchau in Arunachal Pradesh.

Centre hints at extension of truce From Our Spl Correspondent Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, Sept 13 – The ULFA peace process today got a fresh lease of life with Union Home Secretary, V.K.Duggal hinting at possible further extension of the suspension of operations beyond September 15. Talking to newsmen at South Block this afternoon, Duggal said since they have time in hand Government of India is yet to take a final decision on the ULFA peace process. When asked about the inter-ministerial meeting on ULFA, he replied that it was likely to be held on September 20-21.

The indication given by the Home Secretary suggested that the suspension of operation against ULFA was in all likelihood be extended by five days till September 20. By which time, National Security Adviser, M.K. Narayannan is likely to be back. The Centre was apparently not willing to take chances and take a major decision in absence of top functionaries. A final view on the peace process is now expected after September 18, when the Prime Minister is scheduled to return.

As reported earlier, sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed having received a request from ULFA through one of the mediator, Rebati Phukon to extend the suspension till September 20. Sources, said that they were still expecting a response from the ULFA to break the logjam. However, the Centre is likely to take a hard view on the peace process if the outfit does not respond and officials have started talking about the possibility of calling off the suspension offer. Government of India cannot keep on extending the suspension of operations indefinitely under such circumstances,” commented an official.


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