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10/09/2006: "Govt-NSCN(IM) talks on October 17-19 in Amsterdam Zee News"
Govt-NSCN(IM) talks on October 17-19 in Amsterdam Zee News
New Delhi, Oct 09: Aiming to give fresh impetus to the ongoing Naga peace process, the government will hold talks with top leadership of the NSCN(IM) in Amsterdam for three days Begining October 17, amid indication that the rebels may toughen their stand on unification of Naga-inhabited areas.
A group of ministers, headed by Union Minister Oscar Fernandes, will hold talks with the NSCN(IM) representatives led by chairman Isaac Chisi Swu and general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and expected to discuss all "substantive" issues for a lasting solution to the country's oldest insurgency problem, sources said. The meeting will review the progress made ever since the rebels submitted a 20-point "charter of demands" to the government.
In its "charter of demands", the NSCN(IM) has sought unification of all Naga-inhabited areas of the northeast, separate representation at the UN, and greater rights over natural resources, finance, defence and policing. The Naga side is expected to insist on commitment from the Centre to its key demand of unification of Naga-inhabited areas to please its constituencies in Nagaland, sources said. However, the rebel group's key demand or "Greater Nagalim" has been strongly opposed by Nagaland's neighbouring states - Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
In the last round of talks held in Bangkok, both sides are understood to have discussed the limits of flexibility within the constitution and whether a "sub-national constitution" could be accommodated within it. This has become a thorny issue as the NSCN(IM) has proposed negotiating a federal relationship with the country, sources said.
The rebels have suggested that the relationship between India and the Nagas should be defined by a mutually agreed settlement incorporated in the constitution as well as in what it calls a "Naga constitution". The government negotiators have argued that the country's constitution is flexible enough to take care of regional aspirations and diversities. It allows for "asymmetrical federalism" -- different states and regions can relate to the Centre differently. For example, it recognises the constitution of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, they said.
The Bangkok meeting, held on July 29-31, also agreed to extend the ongoing ceasefire by one year. The NSCN(IM) and security forces in Nagaland have been observing a truce since August 1997. The truce has been extended every 12 months since then except last year when it was renewed for just six months at the rebels' insistence and extended by another six months in February before further extending for a year in July 31.
In a joint communique issued immediately after three-day parleys, the both sides said "substantive" issues were discussed and the two sides expressed satisfaction over the progress made in the talks. They had also agreed to "move expeditiously with the discussions on substantive issues" to reach an early settlement. Apart from Fernades, interlocutor for Naga talks K Padmanabhaiah and two other members of the GoM - Union Minister of State for Home S Reghupathy and Minister of State at the PMO Prithviraj Chavan - will take part in the talks.
Bureau Report
Unity must for Naga integration, says Rio Nagaland Post DIMAPUR, OCT 8 (NPN): Chief minister Neiphiu Rio today said unity or oneness among the Nagas was the foremost requirement to push forward and sustain the struggle for Naga integration. "Are we going to sacrifice the Naga nationalism, for which we have struggled for many decades, at the altar of tribalism and selfish divisiveness?" Rio asked and called for introspection to find out the stumbling blocks to Naga unity and oneness.
Addressing the "Oneness in Christ" conference organized by Naga Christian Forum Manipur, Sunday at Mini Stadium, Tahamzam (Senapati), Manipur, Rio said there was an increasing desire among Nagas to remove the "artificial geographical boundaries" and live together under one "administrative dispensation."
He said in Nagaland, the state assembly, the Naga Hoho, various NGOs and civil societies have on several occasions, expressed in unequivocal terms the desire for Naga integration.
"The Nagas of Manipur state, of late, have also expressed similar desire for integration…," the chief minister added.
The chief minister also pointed out that though the Britishers had divided the Nagas under different administrative units for their administrative convenience, but they too "recognized the uniqueness of the Nagas" and therefore introduced the Inner-line Permit (ILP) system to safe guard and protect the Naga culture and identity.
Taking the opportunity of the Christian Forum conference, Rio said he strongly believed that the religious platform could do a lot to provide the "much needed healing touch to our ailing society."
He also appealed to all Nagas to stop fratricidal killings and all from of violence, forgive and reconcile with one another in the name of Jesus Christ and in "oneness build the Naga society as one people."
He also said it was unfortunate that a section of "Naga brethren" continued to indulge in violence and kill one another when the masses were yearning and working for peace and reconciliation.
On the issue of affiliation of private schools of the hill districts of Manipur to the Nagaland Board of school Education (NBSE), Rio said although the Nagaland Government had no objection, yet due to some "legal and man-made hurdles," the affiliation could not materialize.
He however said the state cabinet, realizing the gravity of the situation and in response to the desire of the Naga student community, had decided to make arrangement for allowing the affected students willing to appear the HSLC exams from Nagaland.
Ex-NSCN-IM man says Bangkok talks ‘clueless’ Correspondent Nagaland Post
CHUMUKEDIMA, OCT 8 (NPN): A senior functionary of the NSCN (IM) who recently joined the rival NSCN (K), revealed that the talks in Bangkok were "clueless" and without the Nagas' consent. Former secretary, National Judiciary Board, NSCN (IM), Akato Chophi who recently joined the NSCN (K), told reporters here that even the kilonsers who attend the "so called" talks did not know what transpired in it. "There is not an iota of transparency in the talks," Chophi said. Chophi, on his new assignment, arrived here Saturday evening along with his elite force from Kohima. He said he had all the personal satisfaction while in the NSCN (IM) but left the organisation keeping the national interest in mind.
He however expressed unhappiness over alleged mistreatment by the higher authorities of the NSCN (IM) He also alleged that the ceasefire extended by the NSCN (K) to the rival faction during Christmas season some years back, was flatly turned down by the latter. Chophi said he had joined the NSCN (K) to act as a torch bearer for those people in the NSCN (IM) who were willing to join the NSCN (K) even now but lacked the guts to do so. Boosted by the defection of thirty-odd cadre members from the NSCN (IM), Chophi envisioned a strong base at Dimapur for the NSCN (K) with the active cooperation of the people, which he claimed he had. He said people's voice would be taken into consideration when he and his men set a base in Dimapur.
The NSCN (K) leader said that he had the capacity to build a force of hundreds but has opted for few as it is the quality that matters and not the quantity. He revealed that all his men were well-disciplined and capable of handling crisis situations. The leader was accompanied by Captain Atoshe, who re-joined the NSCN (K) after seeing, what he termed "disillusionment" among the Naga people.
Meanwhile, the NSCN (K) today disclosed the list of fifteen defectors from the rival camp who recently joined organisation. They include Lt. Tokheho, Lt. Atovi, Lt. Khekugha, Sgt. Maj. Kakiho, Sgt. Maj. Vitolu, Sgt. Maj. Nagato, Sgt. Bokato, Sgt. Maj. Moa, Sgt. Wangyuh Konyak, Pvt. Ato, Capt. Atoshe, 2nd Lt. Hekuto, 2nd Lt. Akito, Velukho and Venuto.
They brought along with them four AK 47 rifles, three M-21,1 G-3, one G-1, one Carbine Sten, one launcher with 7 shells, three 9mm pistols, two .32 pistol, three Action Bolt Rifles and 1500 rounds of assorted ammunitions.
Stop fratricidal killings; forgive and reconcile: Rio ‘Integration, unity meaningless without forgiveness’ Nehemiah Rong Senapati | October 8
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, questioning if Naga nationalism and its aspired goals are to be sacrificed at “the altar” of tribalism, today challenged the people to “re-invest” in Christian values reminding that mere integration is meaningless without forgiveness.
“Now the big question is, if we are true followers of Jesus, why are the Nagas finding so much problems in forging oneness or unity? Apart from our oneness in Christ, are we not all related through the ethnic Naga blood? Are we going to sacrifice Naga nationalism, for which we have struggled for so many decades, at the altar of tribalism and selfish divisiveness?”
Rio was speaking as Chief Guest at the Naga Christian Forum conference at Tahamzam, Senapati, Manipur on October 8. He challenged the people to introspect and identify what he called the stumbling blocks to Naga unity and “let us try to remove them with concerted efforts”.
“Let us try to reinvest and imbibe the true Christian values, such as love humility and forgiveness which are the prime need in our Naga society today. If we truly love one anther, if we are humble and able to forgive our brethren for any mistake done, then Naga unity and oneness will follow automatically. And without that ones and unity in our minds, mere integration of territories will be meaningless” Rio reminded while quoting John 13:34.
Rio maintained strongly that “religious platform” can “do a lot” to bring about healing to the ailing Naga society. He called for a “spiritual process” to consolidate Naga unity. “It is unfortunate that the some Naga brothers resort to violence and killing one another when the mass are yearning for peace and reconciliation.”
To this end, Rio appealed for stop to fratricidal killings and all forms of violence, through forgiveness in the name Jesus Christ
On the issue of affiliation of private schools in Manipur’s Naga-inhabited Hill district to the Nagaland Board of School Education Rio said his government has no objection, just that there are “some legal and man-made hurdles”.
Leave civilians and students alone : UNC Nagarealm.com
Imphal, OCT7 [IFP] : Taking strong exception to the spurt of violence going on these days, the United Naga Council (UNC) has appealed all factional groups to stop targeting the innocent lives. The UNC said that the killing of Shimmei Shingnasui, in Kohima few days ago should be condemned by every individual and people.
It is worth noting that Shimmei Shingnasui who was studying in class XI at Kohima`s Model Higher Secondary School, was abducted from his house in Kohima on October 2 and later his lifeless body was found near By-Pass Road in Kohima itsef.
"The merciless killing of Mr. Sh Sinashui, a class XI student of Model Higher Secondary School deserve condemnation from all sections of civil societies," said the Naga body in a statement, adding, "the United Naga Council appeals all factional groups not to select innocent students and civilians as of target but create a better place free from sanction and insecurity to live".
The UNC statement issued by its publicity and information secretary S. Milan also once again appeals all to desist from used of force and violence to "our own brethren" to settle score upon each other for their own differences but create a space for dialogue to resolve it.
The UNC extends its heartfelt condolence with the bereaved family members and near and dear ones of the deceased and also, prays the Almighty that his soul may rest in peace.
Neiphiu Rio harps on Naga unification at Christian meet Source: The Sangai Express / Daniel Dovi
Senapati, October 08: The first Christian conference under the aegis of Naga Christian Forum, Manipur which began on October 6 at Tahamzam (Senapati) Mini Stadium came to a close today after many renowned religious leaders preached on the theme, "Oneness in Christ". The conference was also attended by official dignitaries both from Manipur and Nagaland. Today's unveiling of the monolith was led by Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio.The chief minister was accompanied by his wife, two cabinet colleagues and two parliamentary secretaries.
From the Manipur side, Francis Ngajokpa, Minister, Power, Hort. & Soil Conservation and DK Korungthang, minister, health & family welfare were the official dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion Neiphiu Rio stated that he has come here as a fellow Naga and lamented placement of the Nagas under different administrative units which he said is due to the unfortunate history situation. Acknowledging the increasing desires of the Nagas to remove administrative boundaries and to live together under one administrative unit, he stated that the Nagaland State Assembly, the Naga Hoho, students body and other NGOs have also expressed in unequivocal terms the need and desire for integration of the Nagas.
"Britishers divided us in different administrative units but it was purely for their convenience.
Nevertheless, they recognized the uniqueness of the Nagas," he said and further stated that it was the British who introduced inner line permit system in Nagaland which was to safeguard Naga culture and identity. The same has been done by the govt of India by introducing further measures such as article 371 (A) of the constitution and RAP/PAP for the protection of the Naga culture and way of life, he added. On issue of affiliation of private schools in Naga areas of Manipur to Nagaland Board of Secondary Education, he said govt of Nagaland has no objection to it and the matter has been forwarded to Indian govt for appropriate action.
Also having received no positive response from the Indian govt and realizing the gravity of the situation and in response to the desire of the student community, he said that his govt had decided to make special arrangement for the students who are willing to appear HSLC and HSSLC examinations under NBSE. Terming violence among the Nagas as one obstacle in the reconciliation process of the Nagas, he wondered why Nagas as followers of Christ are finding it difficult to promote sense of brotherhood. Mere integration of territories is meaningless without unity, he added and suggested religious platform as one agent to heal the wounds. Most Rev Dominic Lumon DD, the Archbishop of Imphal also delivered sermons . Later in concert session, Don Bosco College, Maram enthralled the audience with "The Miracle Man" a musical opera.
Naga Christian Conference concludes John basho Pou Kangla on Line
Senapati, Oct 8: The three days of Christian inter-denominational meet under the theme " Oneness in Christ" organized by the Naga Christian Forum, Manipur held at Tahamzam (Senapati) from October 6, ended today with Neiphiu Rio, chief minister of Nagaland as the chief guest. Hundreds of Naga Christians from all denominations in Manipur thronged Senapati to live up to the theme of the meet "Oneness in Christ". Various inspiring messages from God`s Servants, spirit-lifting praise and worship songs from various Church choirs, cultural extravangzas from different tribes and denominations were heard by the congregation in the conference.
The hall was jam-packed unlike other past days in the concert session today, as Neiphiu Rio came to meet southern Naga brothers and sisters along with few ministers of the DAN government in Nagaland, civil societies and other social leaders of Nagaland.
Dinitaries present from Manipur were Francis, Ngajokpa, minster (Power& Horti& Soil Conservation), officials from ATSUM, ANSAM, women organizations, socials leaders are also present at the concert session. Greeting the congregation, Neiphiu Rio said that Nagas have been under unfortunate historical circumstances with different administration set-ups, by creating artificial geographical boundaries between them. Thus there is an increasing desire among the Nagas to remove these administrative boundaries, and live together under one administrative dispensation. He said the Nagaland State Assembly, the Naga Hoho, various NGOs, and civil societies have expressed their concern in unequivocal terms the desire for integration through several organization and platform.
He also said the rich cultural heritage and identity of Nagas are well-known worldwide and needed to be guarded and preserved. He went to said that introduction of Innner Line permit safe-guarding Nagas, and other measure are made by the Central Government threating Nagas culture and identity such as Article 371 (A) of the Constitution and RAP/PAP.
He further said that the Nagaland Government has no objection to the affiliation of the Naga private schools in Manipur to Nagaland Board of Secondary Education. But as of now, there are legal and man-made hurdles in the process. But having known the callousness of the Central Government about the matter for consideration, and realizing the gravity of the situation and in response to the desire of the Nagas students community, the Nagaland State government has decided to make arrangement for allowing the affected students who are willing to appear the HSLC exams from Nagaland.
He also said that it unfortunate to learn that Nagas are killing their own brothers while claiming themselves as Christians. Nagas are one in Christ. And he questioned, "Are we not one with one blood, one culture and identity too, and are we going to sacrifice the Naga National struggle?" Unity among the Nagas is the pre-requisite for solution to decade-long problems of Nagas, he said.
He said that religious platform can play a vital role in solving social and political problems by providing healing touch to our ailing society and creating conducive atmosphere where in unity and oneness among our Nagas can be consolidated.
He further said that Nagas have goodwill towards their neigbours and that peaceful co-existence and good neighborliness always bring dividends. Unlike early days Nagas are better organized and have openly voiced their feelings, and that aspiration and their rights and sentiment should be honored and respected by others.
He appealed the Naga congregation to clean their hearts in prayer and replace them with love and compassion.
He also said that the time has come stop violence among our selves, but reconcile, unite and rise up for the banners of peace, progress and development.
Most Rev.Dominic Lumon D.D, speaking on the topic, Oneness in Reconciliation" said that disunity is the weak point of Nagas and strength of others. Therefore he said that reconciliation is needed at the outset by forgiving and loving each other. He also suggested forming a Reconciliation Commission for bringing unity among the Nagas.
Various cultural troupes performed cultural items, songs are sung at the gathering. And other another important feature of the day was the Mega Musical Opera "The Miracle Man" by the artists from Don Bosco College , Maram.
The conference has been successful from the day one. Rev.Dr.N.K.Nuh, General Secy, Council of Naga Baptist Churches in his speech said that it is a time for Nagas not to seat idle, but work hard as the road to Naga Promised land is stony and thorny for Nagas. He also questioned the credibility of the teaching and service of Naga church leaders saying especially in today`s society. He said that he could hardly find a true leader both from Church and political who has one heart, one vision, broad mindset, sacrificial and selfless services, and who can lead Nagas out of the land of hardships and mad-made bondage.
Mani Charenamei, M.P,who was the Chief Guest on the secondary also said that Church can play a significant role in a society. But Church leaders of today shy away from campaigning against social evils like drugs among youths, AIDS, corruptions etc. he said the maturity and strength of any Christian is measured by how a person tackle the situation and problems in a society.
Powerful messages from other various God`s servants like Fr.Dr.Linus Neli, Pastor, C.H.Pherim and others are heard by the participants every session. It was a great time for Naga Christians to join one another singing in praise of God and pray together for the first time in the history of Naga Christian in Manipur.
NSWON for end to bloodshed The Imphal Free Press
Dimapur, Oct 7: The National Socialist Women Organisation of Nagalim (NSWON), an NSCN-IM`s women wing, while endeavouring to bring peace in the Naga society, has planned a noble programme.
NSWON said that it has been deeply disturbed by the current trends of unabated circle of violence and blood shed in the Naga society for which it has set October 14, a special day for seeking God`s intervention.
NSWON secretary Martha in a statement fervently appeals every Naga women to undertake fasting prayer on October 14 "for the Divine intervention" so that the ongoing spurt of violence and bloddshed is stopped immediately.
The NSWON further stated that the said programme can be organised in groups or individual as per convenience of the people and added that "we firmly believe that your prayers will make all the difference."
India's Hidden War in the NE An exclusive chat with RK Meghen-IV Source: The Sangai Express Transcript of the interview
Imphal, October 08: UNLF chief, Sanayaima reveals his plans for a Mass Uprising in Manipur to CNN-IBN Special Investigation Editor, VK Shashikumar.
.
VK Shashikumar: Why is it that you stand away from a political process?
RK Sanayaima: The present system is a failed system.
So the system by itself will not work.
So we use our own system.
We ask the MLAs, ministers, bureaucrats to do what is beneficial for the people.
VK Shashikumar: But they're not doing that...
RK Sanayaima: Some of them have to do.
They do that.
But not within the system but under our…what should I say…influence.
VK Shashikumar: Is there anyway according to you to reconcile demands for a Greater Nagaland and Kuki nationhood and your demand for an independent Manipur ?Here boundaries make or break lives…
RK Sanayaima: We're opposed to any sort of political demands like Greater Nagaland.
We feel that this is something that has to be decided among ourselves among all the communities and we believe that the only way for future is co-existence and co-development… whether you call it Nagaland, Kuki land or whatever it is.
But we don't believe getting or demanding land in the Indian system.But as independent people we should co-exist together and fight together for our independent existence.
Without fighting for that, we will not adjust.
We may adjust individually.
But as a people, as a distinct human group we will not exist.
Just see how much the demography has changed. There has been a complete change in the demographic structure of the region because of foreign influx.
VK Shashikumar: You're talking about influx from Bangladesh?
RK Sanayaima: Not only Bangladesh, from India also.
In Manipur, out of 2.5 million population, already about 7-8 lakhs is outside population.
See how it disturbed original demography.
This is more disturbing to us.
VK Shashikumar: Do you think this will also be a cause for violence?
RK Sanayaima: In Manipur, you don't see so much xenophobia as you might have seen elsewhere.
Our people are more tolerant.
But when it crosses a limit…we cannot say if it'll turn into a violent reaction.
VK Shashikumar: Will democratization of India's federal structure satisfy the political aspirations you represent?
RK Sanayaima: Well, first of all our sovereign independence has to be recognized.
It's not a question of giving up the armed struggle.
In order to resolve the Manipur-India conflict, which is not just the political conflict, it is now a politico-military conflict, we have proposed the holding of a plebiscite under UN supervision.
We've made a 4-point proposal.
No.1 is to hold plebiscite under UN, NO.2 that UN peacekeeping forces be deployed in Manipur.
No.3 UNLF will deposit all its arms to the UN authority on a date fixed by the UN prior to the date of plebiscite.
And India should also reciprocate by withdrawing all its forces from Manipur.
No.4 UN authority to hand over power according to the result of the plebiscite.
That's the 4-point proposal we've made.
This is the present position we take right now.
VK Shashikumar: When the UN has rejected the question of plebiscite in J&K, saying that when elections are being held, the issue of plebiscite doesn't exist anymore, the conditions don't exist…why are you so confident that the UN will or the international community will accept your proposal?
RK Sanayaima: When our people stand up as one man and fight for what is their due, I think the international community should stand up and see what's happening there.
They cannot just sit down tight.
When the people start fighting for their rights, as a whole.
VK Shashikumar: True, but your war is confined to jungles.
It doesn't move beyond the jungles.
It's really a war, which is hidden.
Nobody knows about it.
How do you expect this war to get out of the jungles and for the world community to accept that this is indeed a people's war?
RK Sanayaima: That we'll see in the coming years by people's movement for plebiscite.
If you go down the valley, the movement is gaining momentum there and people in different places are holding meetings & discussions for plebiscite.
That will take the character of movement.
VK Shashikumar: So it's not as if UNLF doesn't have a strategy it does have a strategy?
RK Sanayaima: Yes we do have a strategy – both political and military.
And our strategy is to get the entire people involved in the struggle.
Kuki outfit demands statehood VK Shashikumar CNN-IBN
ETHNIC ASPIRATIONS: The Kukis demand that India recognise their territory by way of statehood.
South-East Manipur: Soldiers of the armed wing of the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) undergo training inside the jungles of Manipur close to the India-Myanmar border.
The Kuki militia is 1,500 men strong and is armed with an array of weapons. "At present, we use AK-47, M16, DC and 60mm mortar," says Major DJ Haokip of the KNO.
The KNA, the armed wing of the KNO, is under a ceasefire agreement with the Indian Army since August 2005 and is said to be a product of Manipur's ethnic wars. "In Manipur, there are three communities: Kukis, Nagas and Meiteis. So you can't have a solution for one and ignore the other, if you want the entire region to be in a situation where there is peace, stability and tranquility," says spokesperson of KNO, Seilen Hoakip.
The Kukis, primarily hill tribals, say the British divided the traditional Kuki land between India and Myanmar. The KNO wants statehood for Kuki dominated areas in Manipur within the Indian Constitution
"If India wants us to be part of the Indian union, we are happy to do that. Then recognise our territory by way of statehood. The KNO's objective, as I mentioned, is to find solutions within the framework of the Indian Constitution. We firmly believe in being Indian," says Hoakip.
The pro-India stance of the KNO allows them to carry arms and keep training despite the ceasefire. The Kuki militia does what the army can't - protect Kuki villages from the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and National Socialist Council for Nagalim-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM). Not surprisingly, this militia is tiny but tough and recruits who fall out of line, invite harsh punishment. "They didn't follow the rules and regulations in the training camp," says the instructor as he stands by the offenders.
KNO recruits are young, many of them just 15. And a strong sense faith is crucial to motivate them. Many of them can be often heard singing the gospel song -
He gives me love and happiness, gives me comfort while I am on earth. Nobody but Christ can make me happy. He gives me love and happiness.
At all KNO camps, the Bible and the Gun stay side by side. "We are doing this to gain God's blessing," says a cadet.
Isn't it a failure of Indian democracy that young Kuki boys are training to fight an enemy they hardly know and against a country that claim them to be its own? (With Rajesh Bhardwaj)
Spurt in violence in Northeast Nagaland Post
New Delhi, Oct 8: The centre claims that internal security situation in northeast has improved over the past year. It has entered into ceasefire agreements with several insurgent groups and is holding peace talks with NSCN (IM) and some other terrorist groups as well. But the guns are back in Assam and incidences of violence and extortion by terrorist groups all over the northeast are on the rise. For most northeast insurgent groups the fight for self-determination is synonymous with extortion, smuggling and even drug running. These are some extortion letters in NDTV's possession.
The Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup or KYKL in Manipur sent an extortion note to a cabinet minister of state demanding Rs 20 lakh to 'rebuild' Manipuri society and clamp down on the drug trade and corruption. ULFA demanded Rs 15 lakh from the RBI regional director even as the People's Consultative Group and the Centre tried to start direct talks with them.
The Nationalist Socialist Council for Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) fighting for a separate Naga homeland wants all government employees to pay 24 per cent of their monthly salary. The other NSCN faction led by S S Khaplang wanted ONGC to pay them Rs 5 crore. The National Democratic Front of Bodoland sent an extortion letter to a local hotel asking for money so it could engage the Centre in peace negotiations. "Most of these groups survive because of bad governance most of the cadres get a salary from the group and with continue extortion as well," said E N Ram Mohan. "Most of these groups survive because of bad governance. Most of the cadres get a salary from the group and with continue extortion as well The Union Home Ministry has regularly signed ceasefire agreements with several northeast insurgent groups and routinely extended these ceasefires. No amount of ceasefire agreements or peace negotiations works when such extortion is rampant. Most importantly it defeats the very purpose.
With the northeast emerging as the bridge between China and southeast Asia the Centre should perhaps lay more stress on improving basic governance starting with law order in the northeast.
Rights activists "release" Reddy Committee report on AFSPA Sangai Express
New Delhi, Oct 8 : Rights activists from Manipur today released to the media what they claimed was the report of the Justice Jeevan Reddy Committee on a controversial anti-terror law that has sparked widespread protests in the state. The report on the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 they claimed, had recommended the law should be repealed. The move by the Apunba Lup, a grouping of Manipuri socio-political organisations, came in the wake of a protest here by, Irom Chanu Sharmila, who has been on a fast for the past six years to demand withdrawal of the law. The activists, however, rejected other recommendations of the Jeevan Reddy Committee, saying any attempt to transfer the "draconian provisions" of AFSPA to any other law was not acceptable.
"While the recommendation to repeal the AFSPA is welcome, the amendments which could make the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 more draconian and allow virtual army rule all over the country, are unacceptable," Babloo Loitongbam, director Human Rights Alert, said releasing the report. Following widespread protests against the law, the Centre set up the expert panel headed by former Justice Jeevan Reddy to review the legislation in 2004. The panel last year submitted its report to the Centre, which is yet to act on its recommendations.
Babloo also criticised the Delhi Police for not allowing Sharmila to move out of All India Institute of Medical Sciences. —PTI
PREPAK calls for Natl Revolutionary War By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Oct 8 : Greeting the people on the eve of its 29th raising day, Vice Chairman of the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, N Nongdren today said that time has come for all to understand and realise that it no longer pays to indulge in game blame.
In a statement the VC of the outfit said that in its history Manipur has been under the rule of outsiders for three times with the current one being under India. To achieve the goal of sovereignty and to defeat the outsiders, what is needed is a National Revolutionary War, said the PREPAK leader and added that the only way to achieve is to forge unity amongst the revolutionary outfits. Unity of the different people and community coupled with strict discipline and a high revolutionary ideal is the need of the hour, said the outfit and added that self centred ideas should be discarded and the struggle should be launched under a common policy. It is only through unity that the ultimate goal can be achieved. To promote unity and the oneness of the people, the Constitution of PREPAK recognises 33 Nationalities, said the statement and added that the indigenous people of the land are all brethrens of PREPAK. The outfit will try to uphold this principle and has been doing so. Urging the people to be wary of the policies of the Indian Government to dilute their identity, the PREPAK leader said that since 1949, numerous policies have been enforced to wipe out the people of Manipur. One such policy is the huge influx of outsiders into Manipur who have come in waves, said PREPAK. On the other hand to dwarf the indigenous population, the Indian Government has been propagating Family Planning, said the outfit. It is time for the people to realise that under the birth control policy of the Indian Government, the population of the indigenous people have been stunted by 60 percent, observed Nongdren. On the other hand, outsiders have been clandestinely coming into Manipur from the four corners at the rate of 1.5 to 2 pc of the population of Manipur annually, said the outfit.
Citing an example, Nongdren said that the 2001 Census put the population of India at 23 lakhs while unofficially it was 24 lakhs. Out of this the strength of the outsiders is 7 lakhs, which is about 30 pc of the total population, he said. Referring to the policies adopted by the Indonesian Government to quell the freedom movement in East Timor, which has since become an independent entity, Nongdren said that Indonesia forcefully sterilised the young people of East Timor so that they could not bear any issue. Under a programme charted out every five years, Indonesia, with the knowledge or without the knowledge of the women of East Timor performed birth control operations, said the PREPAK VC. Depo Provera, a birth control drug which has been banned in many countries were forcefully administered to the women of East Timor including students, he added. On top of this a large number of Indonesians were made to settle at East Timor to dilute the population of the indigenous Timorese. For the birth control programme Indonesia president Suharto was given an award in 1989.
In the process outsiders accounted for 20 pc of the population of East Timor. (More tomorrow)
Solidarity to Sharmila witnessed all over By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Oct 8: Sit-in-protest demonstrations were continued to be held all across the State expressing solidarity with Irom Chanu Sharmila who has been fasting for nearly six years now demanding removal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 from Manipur.
At Kongpal Iranpham Thongkhong, the birth place of the gutsy young woman, half of the road was blocked and a mass sit-in-protest cum public meeting was organised jointly by The Kongpal Students’ Club, Nupishingee Yaipha Samaj, The Porompat Road Women’s Creative Association, Oriental Youth Organisation and Kongpal Kongkham Leikai Meira Paibi Welfare Association.
Apart from raising the slogans for total repeal of the draconian Act from Manipur immediately, save the life of Sharmila and unconditional release of Hus- sein Ahamed, the protest-ors also resolved to orga- nise mass campaign including writing letters to the Indian President and International Human rights to garner their support to the cause and to launch fund drive toward meeting the expenses required in this connection. In Churachandpur district, Meetei Society, Chu- rachandpur organised a Wakat Meepham attended by a large number of representatives of various civil organisations along the Old Bazar Tiddim Road today. Those who spoke at the occasion underlined the point that the struggle being launched by Sharmila is not of her own, but of all the people of Manipur and the Governments both at the Centre and the State should seriously consider the demand for removal of AFSPA from Manipur. Protest demonstrations were also held at various other places like Singjamei Okram Leikai, Pishumtho-ng, Chingamathak, Yum- nam Leikai, Keishamthong Thangjam Leirak, Kongba Kshetri Leikai, Wangkhei Thangjam Leikai, Wang-khei Tokpam Leikai, Wang- khei Laishram Leikai, Wai-thou Bazar, Malom Bazar, Lamlong, Pangei, Khundra-kpam, Chingkhu, Yumnam Khunou, Sagol-mang Bazar, Pukhao, Uyumpok, Keibi, Soibam Leikai, Lamboikhul, Irilbung Kabui Khul, Irilbung Bazar, Keirao Panthoibi Bazar, etc. Meanwhile, endorsing the demand for total scrapping of AFSPA from Mani- pur, Meitei Erol Eyek Loina-sillol Apunba Lup, Kanglei- pak and Man League, Manipur have also prevailed upon the Govts, both at the Centre and the State for taking up necessary actions toward fulfilling the demand of the people.
Raging AFSPA debate Sangai Express Editorial
Once again the Armed Forces Special Powers Act has come back to occupy prime space in the newspapers and haunt the collective psyche of the people and not without reason. Irom Chanu Sharmila, the young, gutsy lady who has come to personify all that stands against the continued imposition of this Act has shifted base to Delhi from where she has been launching her fast unto death agitation. Hers has been a long and at times lonely battle as she had to spend her time during the last six years at the security ward of the JN Hospital here, which is strictly off limits to most of the people. The same story is being repeated at Delhi where the lady has been shifted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, away from the public with only her brother allowed to visit her. Much have been written and said about the Act and there have been debates galore. While the military establishment has more than made it clear that their men would not be able to function without the immunity granted by the Act, the people, especially human rights organisations and civil society organisations have been crying foul against the Act. The last straw was of course the custodial death of Th Manorama whose bullet riddled body was recovered after she was picked up by Assam Rifles personnel from her own house, the previous evening, in 2004. The street protests that followed and the nude protest staged by women folk in front of Kangla which housed the then 17 Assam Rifles and 9 Sector Assam Rifles are now history, but they are events which will continue to dictate and influence the future of Manipur, vis-a-vis AFSPA. The public uproar in 2004 against the Act was pacified to a certain extent after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh personally flew down to Manipur to announce the constitution of the Jeevan Reddy Committee to study the provisions of the said Act and to submit its recommendations. Numerous sittings were held and the opinion and idea of the people of the North East region were recorded. The military establishment was also given the opportunity to state their case. After months of preparation, the Committee finally submitted its report, but true to the characteristics of New Delhi, nothing was said and the Congress led Government has been sleeping over the recommendations of the Reddy Committee.
Today with Sharmila now changing gear and shifting her agitation at Delhi, the Centre can no longer afford to look the other way and Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil while maintaining that the said Act cannot be repealed is understood to have assured human rights activists that the report of the Reddy Committee may be given to Sharmila. However what Mr Patil should remember is the fact that what Sharmila wants is the repeal of the Act and not to have a look at the Reddy Committee's report. As things stand today, the Hindu has already published the relevant section of the recommendation and as per the report filed by its Delhi correspondent, the Committee has recommended that the Act be repealed. Logical arguments have been forwarded for the stand taken by the Committee. However it is clear that New Delhi is not in the mood to even consider the recommendations of the Committee. Before Messrs Manmohan Singh and Shivraj Patil take any decision, they should ask themselves this question, “Has militancy been curbed since AFSPA was imposed in the entire State of Manipur in 1980 ?.” Another question that could well help Delhi come to a decision is the poser, “Is the imposition of the Act responsible for the allegations of numerous human rights abuses which have put a blot on the image of the security force ?”
Apunba Lup intensifies repeal AFSPA agitation in Delhi ;Protest gains momentum in the state The Imphal Free Press
IMPHAL, Oct 8: The Apunba Lup, which is continuing its sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar in the national capital today, has expressed concern over the recommendations of the Justice Jeevan Reddy Review Committee on Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act,1958.
The Lup and Manipur Students Association, Delhi, MSAD are currently intensifying the campaign for the repeal of AFPSA with the support of students, human rights groups, intellectuals, civil societies and other well wishers in New Delhi, a release said.
Stating that the Review Committee`s recommendation to repeal the AFSPA appears positive, the Apunba Lup in a release condemned the "other recommendation to refer the provisions of AFSPA to other repressive laws, primarily the Unlawful Activities and Prevention Act,1967".
The observation of the Review Committee that "AFSPA has become a symbol of oppresion, an object of hate and an instrument of discrimination and high handedness...." is a judicious remark that reflected the systematic trend of human rights violations and terror unleased by armed forces with impunity in Manipur, the release stated.
The Lup also condemned the chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh`s insistence to continue the imposition of AFSPA even after the Jeevan Reddy Committee`s observation that the Act is discriminatory and repressive.
Meanwhile, representatives of Apunba Lup today visited Irom Sharmila at AIIMS Hospital where the iron lady is being detained, the release further said. Terming the continued detention of Sharmila whose health continues to be in critical condition as a serious violation of her personal freedom and liberty, the Apunba Lup condemned the state authorities for force feeding her against her will.
Here in the state renewed protest against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act in the state following Sharmila`s shift of protest venue at the National Capital gained momentum as several civil society bodies and local organisations came out on the streets to stage mass sit-in-protest.
Fueled by Sharmila`s shift of protest venue, several civil society bodies and local organisations have staged mass sit-in-protests in the state ever since report of Sharmila`s worsened health condition reached the state. Today, several social organisations and Meira Paibis staged protest-sit-ins at various places all over the state with the slogans and banners like `Save Sharmila`, `Repeal AFSPA`, `Stop state terrorism` etc.
Sit-in protests were held at Lamlong Keithel, Pangei bazar, Pangei government LP school campus, Khundrakpam, Sagolmang, Chingkhu, Yumnam Khunou, Sagolmang bazar, Pukhao bazar, Pukhao Iranpham thongkhong, Uyumpok Thongkhong bazar, Uyumpok Mamang Leikai, Nongsum bazar, Lamboikhul, Taretkhul, Keibi Awang Leikai, Soibam Leikai Citizen`s club, Sangakpham Bazar, orgd by Laipham Khunou Meira Paibee Lup, Khabam Lamkhai, orgd by North Imphal Meira Paibee Lup, Nilakuthi Lamkhai, orgd by Koirengei Manung Mapal Meira Paibee Lup, Khamaram, orgd by Luwamg Leimarol Chaokhat Khongthang Nupi Lup, Khongampat, orgd by Women Welfare Assn. and Mantri Laikai Meira Paibee Lup, Feidinga, co-orgd by Feidinga Meira Paibee Lup, Loidang Sandum Meira Paibee Lup, and Loidand Leikinthaba Meira Paibee Lup, Sekmai, orgd by Advance Women Society Awang Sekmai, Tendongyan, orgd by Tendongyan Apunba Meira Paibee Lup, Khongampat (near Khongampat High School) orgd by Laikol Lairembi Nupi Khongampat Awang Leikai, Churachandpur Mandop Leikai, Meetei Society Churachandpur, Thongjao, Laimanai, Wangjing Bazar, Charangpat Mamang Leikai, Wangoi Bazar, Waikhong, Keirao, Irilbung Bazar, Bhamon Kampu, Kongba Kshetri Leikai, Wangkhei Thangjam Leikai, Wangkhei Tokpam Leikai, O.L.A. ground, Nupi Seba Meira Paibee, Soibam Leikai and Wangkhei Khonou. etc.
Such protests were also held at several places in Imphal west, Thoubal, Bishnupur and Churachandpur district.
In the meantime, a massive torch rally was held today along Burmu-Sugnu road this evening.
Thousands of Meira Paibis hailing from Lamjao, Hiyanglam, Wabagai, Keirak with torch in their hands joined the rally which was staged from Wabagai Lamkhai to AR post at Sekmai Barrage.
During the rally, participants raised several slogans like `Save Sharmila`, `Repeal AFSPA`, `Stop State Terrorism`, `Go back Indian Army` etc. Some youths who took part in the rally were detained for some time by personnels of the 21 AR when the rally approaches the AR post at Sekmai Barrage. The youths were however released later
