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10/17/2006: "Talks in Amsterdam amid Naga threats to break ceasefire By IANS"



Talks in Amsterdam amid Naga threats to break ceasefire By IANS Tuesday October 17

Guwahati, Oct 17 (IANS) Indian peace negotiators are beginning fresh talks Tuesday in Amsterdam with a frontline tribal separatist group of the northeastern state of Nagaland amid threats by the rebels to break the nine-year-old ceasefire if New Delhi dithers on their demands. Federal minister Oscar Fernandes and New Delhi's main peace interlocutor K. Padmanabhaiah will be meeting top leaders of the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM). 'This is another crucial round of negotiations and the three-day talks would discuss all substantive issues to solve the country's oldest insurgency issue,' an Indian home ministry official told IANS on conditions of anonymity. The NSCN-IM, led by guerrilla leaders Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah, warned of serious consequences if New Delhi failed to meet its demands.
'We would be compelled to take measures accordingly if the government does not respect our views. No mistake should be committed to play games with the Nagas because this would prove costly for the central government,' a rebel statement said.
The NSCN-IM has been struggling for nearly six decades to create a 'Greater Nagaland' by slicing off parts of three neighbouring states to unite 1.2 million Nagas. The demand is strongly opposed by the states of Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh. The NSCN-IM and New Delhi entered into a ceasefire in August 1997, which has been renewed regularly. The present ceasefire expires in June 2007. The Amsterdam talks would also discuss reports of violent clashes between rival factions of the NSCN. The other group led by guerrilla leader S.S. Khaplang has also been operating a ceasefire with New Delhi since 2001 although formal peace talks are yet to begin.
The two warring NSCN factions are fighting a bitter turf war for territorial supremacy with an estimated 200 rebels killed in gang wars in the past five years. India and the NSCN-IM have held at least 50 rounds of peace talks in the past nine years to end one of South Asia's longest-running insurgencies that have claimed around 25,000 lives since the country's independence in 1947.
NSCM-IM deputy secretary shot dead Sentinel
KOHIMA: Suspected NSCN (K) cadres have shot dead the NSCN-IM’s Tatar Hoho (secretary of parliament) deputy secretary in Chekiye-B village near Dimapur. According to official sources, the suspected NSCN (K) gunmen entered his house and shot him dead from point blank range in front of his family yesterday.UNI
Our Dibrugarh correspondent adds: The NSCN(K) shot dead self-styled captain of the NSCN(IM) Tangkul and his wife Tara, near a weekly market at Naginimora in Mon district of Nagaland on Saturday night.

3-day Naga peace talks to start in Amsterdam today Aloke Tikku
New Delhi, October 16, 2006 Hindustan Times
The government will hold talks with the NSCN (IM) leadership over the next three days to continue the dialogue process that has managed to stave off armed confrontation between the insurgent group and security forces in Nagaland for nearly a decade.
A three-member group of ministers led by Oscar Fernandes will resume negotiations with National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) leaders on Tuesday in Amsterdam.
Government officials said the meeting could focus on how to give a "constitutional shape” to the demands put forward by the NSCN (IM) that is acceptable to the government.
"We hope to be able to start an Article by Article study of the Constitution," said an official. The NSCN (IM) has never formally accepted the Indian Constitution. A detailed examination to identify the constitutional provisions that they do not have a problem accepting would be a step forward.
But this is expected to be a long-drawn process; the Nagas have already brought a constitutional expert on board to help them take a position on thenegotiating table

Govt-NSCN talks begin on Tuesday Times of India

NEW DELHI: Amid reports of clashes between rival factions of Naga rebels, the Government will hold talks with top leadership of the NSCN (I-M) in Amsterdam for three days beginning on Tuesday where the group may toughen its stand on unification of Naga-inhabited areas.

A Group of Ministers, headed by Union Minister Oscar Fernandes, has left for Netherlands to hold parleys with NSCN(I-M) representatives led by chairman Isaac Chisi Swu and General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and is expected to discuss all "substantive" issues for a solution to the country's oldest insurgency problem, sources said on Monday.

The reports of clashes between NSCN (I-M) and its rival NSCN (Khaplang) cadres, which have resulted in killings of several people in the recent past may figure in the talks.

The NSCN(IM) is likely to demand immediate government action to "control" the cadre of NSCN(K), which also has a ceasefire pact with the Centre, since such incidents may increase further tension in Nagaland, 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 of "Greater Nagalim" has been strongly opposed by Nagaland's neighbouring states - Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
Government to hold talks with NSCN (IM Aloke Tikku Hindustan Times
New Delhi, October 16, 2006The government will hold talks with the NSCN (IM) leadership over the next three days to continue the dialogue process that has managed to stave off armed confrontation between the insurgent group and security forces in Nagaland for nearly a decade.
A three-member group of ministers led by Oscar Fernandes will resume negotiations with National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) leaders on Tuesday in Amsterdam.
Government officials said the meeting could focus on how to give a "constitutional shape" to the demands put forward by the NSCN (IM) that acceptable to the government.
"We hope to be able to start an Article by Article study of the Constitution," said an official. The NSCN (IM) has never formally accepted the Indian Constitution. A detailed examination to identify the constitutional provisions that they do not have a problem accepting would be a step forward.
But this is expected to be a long-drawn process; the Nagas have already brought a constitutional expert on board to help them take a position on the negotiating table

Nagalim stand may harden Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, Oct 16 – Amid reports of clashes between rival factions of Naga rebels, the Government will hold talks with top leadership of the NSCN (I-M) in Amsterdam for three days begining tomorrow where the group may toughten its stand on unification of Naga-inhabited areas, reports PTI. A Group of Ministers, headed by Union Minister Oscar Fernandes, has left for Netherlands to hold parleys with NSCN(I-M) representatives led by chairman Isaac Chisi Swu and General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and is expected to discuss all “substantive” issues for a solution to the country’s oldest insurgency problem, sources said today.

The reports of clashes between NSCN (I-M) and its rival NSCN (Khaplang) cadres, which have resulted in killings of several people in the recent past may figure in the talks. The NSCN(IM) is likely to demand immediate government action to “control” the cadre of NSCN(K), which also has a ceasefire pact with the Centre, since such incidents may increase further tension in Nagaland, 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 of “Greater Nagalim” has been strongly opposed by Nagaland’s neighbouring states - Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Asom. 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 NSCN-IM has proposed 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. 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.
Apart from Fernandes, Centre’s 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.

Two NSCN (K) cadres killed in factional feud The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Kohima, October 16: Two NSCN (K) cadres were killed in separate clashes between the two warring NSCN factions today.

Clashes between the two groups were reported from at least five places – Phaipijang in Dimapur, Peren, Athibung, and Sukhalu village near Zunheboto town in Nagaland.

According to reports received by NNN this evening, 'Sgt' Toshi Ao of the NSCN (K) was killed during the clash at Sukhalu village while another cadre belonging to the same faction was killed in the clash at Athibung. Four NSCN (IM) cadres also sustained injuries during the clashes, the reports said. Sources said that NSCN (IM) cadres attacked a group of the rival faction, numbering around 30 to 40, at Sukhalu village since this morning.

Being outnumbered, the NSCN (K) retreated with the exception of four of the cadres, who sought refuge in a Church. The four cadres are still under siege at Sukhalu and the standoff is continuing till the time of filing this report. There are also reports that the NSCN (IM) have seized arms and ammunition from the NSCN-K cadres.
Clash toll mounts At least 8 reported killed across Nagaland, Manipur The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, OCT 16 (MExN): According to reports pouring in from across Nagaland and Manipur, at least eight people including armed cadres from both the NSCN groups have been killed in separate incidents at different places during the last 24 hours. In Nagaland, two NSCN (K) cadres were killed today in separate incidents at Sukhalu village under Zunheboto district and at Saijan village, Athibung circle under Peren district, it was informed. A civilian was also killed in the ensuing gun battle at Saijan village, official sources informed. Today’s factional clash follows the series of violent incidents reported from across the State in which innocent civilians have also not been spared by armed cadres belonging to both the NSCN factions.
Also one NSCN-IM cadre 2nd Lt Harison Tangkhul was killed on October 14 at Naganimora by the NSCN-K Naganimora town command. The NSCN (K) in a release stated that Harison’s girl friend Hara Sharma was also killed by a stray bullet as she was with Harison during the gunfight. The GPRN expressed regret for the incident where Sharma was killed by a stray bullet and has offered an apology to the bereaved family.
Meanwhile, according to information received from Peren, a factional clash between the NSCNs began at around 2:30 am in the wee hours of the morning at Saijan village, Athibung circle—around 6 km away from Jalukie. The gunfight reportedly broke out when NSCN (K) cadres attacked the rival’s position at Saijan village.
One NSCN (K) cadre identified as SS Corporal Kanho Konyak, around 26 years, son of Kanga Konyak of Singhamokuk village under Mon district was killed. Another civilian aged around 70 years was also killed in the cross fire. The civilian has been identified as Thongkholam Singsit from Saijan village.Sources informed that the NSCN (IM) cadres numbered around 30 while the NSCN (K) had around 20 cadres.
Situation in the area is reportedly ‘very tense’. Police, 10 IRB, 20 Assam Rifles and Magistrate with Dobashis are reportedly monitoring the situation. NSCN (IM) officials in the area meanwhile expressed unhappiness over the manner in which security forces were dealing with the situation. Family members during the funeral service of late Thongkholam, demanded remuneration from the state government. Civil society groups led by the Zeliangrong Baudi have expressed regret over the recent factional violence terming it as failure to adhere to the ceasefire ground rules.
Later informing to this newspaper about the factional clash at Sukhalu village, NSCN (IM) Deputy Kilonser Kraiba Chawang alleged that the firing was started by the NSCN (K) after which they retreated inside a Church, alleging that the public were being used as human shield. Chawang informed that four NSCN (K) cadres were apprehended, while one was killed. One M-22 sub-machine gun was seized.
Chawang also informed that a combined force of the Manipur People’s Army and the NSCN (K) mounted an attack on NSCN (IM) positions in a place called Mandeu in Tamenglong district of Manipur. Chawang claimed that three dead bodies reportedly belonging to the NSCN (K) and MPA group were lying in the compound of the Church at Mandeu. Firing is still going on, according to Chawang.
GoI-NSCN (I-M) talks from today Nagaland Post
NEW DELHI, OCT 16 (PTI): Amid reports of clashes between rival factions of Naga rebels, the Government will hold talks with top leadership of the NSCN (I-M) in Amsterdam for three days beginning tomorrow where the group may toughen its stand on unification of Naga-inhabited areas. A Group of Ministers, headed by Union Minister Oscar Fernandes, has left for Netherlands to hold parleys with NSCN (I-M) representatives led by chairman Isaac Chisi Swu and general secretary Th. Muivah and is expected to discuss all "substantive" issues for a solution to the country's oldest insurgency problem, sources said today.
The reports of clashes between NSCN (I-M) and its rival NSCN (K) cadres, which have resulted in killings of several people in the recent past, may figure in the talks. The NSCN (IM) is likely to demand immediate government action to "control" the cadre of NSCN (K), which also has a ceasefire pact with the Centre, since such incidents may increase further tension in Nagaland, 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 of "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 NSCN-IM has proposed 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".
Apart from Fernandes, Centre's 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. 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. 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.
NSF condemns killing of father The Morung Express

Dimapur, Oct 16 (MExN): The Naga Students Federation (NSF) has strongly condemned the killing of one Ahoto Sumi who was allegedly bludgeoned to death on October 14 at Billy Graham Road, Kohima.
“The Naga Students’ Federation is constrained to issue this statement in the light of recent developments where rampant killings have once again commenced creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the Naga society.
The NSF is grieved to learn the death of Lt. Ahoto Sumi, cruelly bludgeoned to death on the 14th of October 2006 at Billy Graham Road Kohima, subsequently identified on the evening of the 15th which came to the knowledge of NSF after the dead body had been taken to the late departed’s native place for funeral rites” stated an NSF release issued through its Vice President Imchatoba Imchen and General Secretary Elu Ndang.
The NSF reiterated that it does not condone killing of any kind and strongly condemn the abduction and subsequent murder of Lt. Ahoto, reportedly a father of 7 children. “The NSF re-iterates that killings of all kinds must be condemned at all time. In this context, we continue to appeal to all armed groups to shun violence. NSF also laments the failure of state government’s machinery to protect the lives of the innocent. The NSF further appeals to all peace loving citizens and Christians to continue to work and pray for Peace in our land” it appealed. The federation also while expressing heartfelt condolences to the family of the bereaved regretted its inability to meet family members in person.
Quit notice: Nothing wrong- Nagaland Post Opnion
There is completely nothing wrong or illegal in the "Quit Notice" issued to Tangkhuls by various regions/tribe of the Nagas. It is deep rooted and well established tradition and custom of the Nagas that had been practiced since time immemorial-that if any person migrated to another village from his native village on various grounds, he can live in his newly adopted village as long as his modes of living are compatible to that of the indigenous villagers. But once his presence in that said village proves to be negative in social, economic and political lives of the villagers, he is asked to leave at once, and that person practically will have no say in that matter, but to comply with it. The same yardstick is applied to any foreigner, whether big or small, coming to India with Indian visa, if his presence in India produces negative effect. And the same person will have no say, but to leave India. This need not be proved or argued otherwise.
The migration of Tangkhuls to Nagaland is of very recent development which took place after the declaration of Naga independence on the 14 August, 1947. But, their coming into the Naga society had negative effects on the Naga people. And of late, the Naga people have experienced and witnessed untold miseries, particularly unceasing bloodshed among the Nagas. Therefore, the Nagas have issued "Quit Notice" to Tangkhuls to leave Nagaland safe and sound right from the middle of August 2006. Now it is running three months since the issuing of the quit notice. So, if the Tangkhuls defy or adopt confrontational attitudes, Naga society is headed for more trouble and bloodshed and the responsibility will solely rest upon the opportunist individual or groups who are supporting the anti-quit notice campaign. There is no wrong or illegality in the quit notice under the purview of neither the national, international laws nor statutes
Secretary, MIP, GPRN, NSCN (K) Condemnation of murder of innocent father- Nagaland Post Opnion
Late. Ahoto Assumi a father of seven children, husband to wife and sole bread earner of humble family, was as usual in his daily chores to sustain his family. Distant cousin of ISAK SUMI Military Spokesman Naga Army, was blameless of any crime or involvement of any kind in ongoing dirty factional feuds except that he happens to be a family relative of ISAK SUMI. Factional conflicts going out of proportion and going to the extent of targeting innocent family circles of workers from either group, repercussion would be inevitable Civil War in no distant future. However desperate one's position could be, we are waging war not of Personal vendettas or personal ambition. Unlike certain individual tribe in certain factional set-up who are wantonly unleashing terror to vanquish Naga tribes in order to establish its hegemony over entire Nagas on the pretext of Naga Struggle has crossed limits. Hundreds of innocent Nagas have been slaughtered and countless still remain un-traced, Hundreds of families still mourning and searching the mortal remains of dear ones, Where are they? Would they ever return? Why were they buried un noticed like Animal carcasses and what were the wrong doings that they had to be executed arbitrarily with graves un-dug and bodies strewn all over motherland.
Aren't we still quenched of our thirst for innocent blood? How many more innocent Naga do you want to murder? Would killing of innocents serve our purpose? Dear brothers up in arms, don't you ever question your conscience before you lay your hand upon your own brothers? Are you really a Naga by blood and by aspiration or are you simply our adversaries tool to subjugate and strangulate our cause? How long shall we tolerate such killing spree in our sacred land for our sacred cause? Are we Nagas already bogged down by mindless terrorism, is your conscience stagnant and your voice choked? Whom do you expect to salvage your from this circumstances?
Most recent murder of Late AHOTO ASSUMI by IK cadres at the false instigation by one of it's security Officer UMESH who is a Bihari and serving in IK Town command Kohima and a brother of proprietor UP Pan Shop Jail colony Kohima, and subsequent failure on the part of NSF, Naga Hoho, NMA , NPMHR and tribal organizations despite repeated appeals by family members to look into circumstances under which the deceased was murdered shows how unjust and loop-sided Naga leaders have become. It is still afresh in the minds of every Naga, how befitting a mass funeral was organized at the heart of Kohima town when Late Hovizol and late Shimrieh was murdered.
Where as when IK cadres murdered innocent father AHOTO kidnapped from the same spot where late Hovizol was killed, both the crime committed on false information provided by UMESH BIHARI to IK cadres. Several organization including NSF,SKK, SUMI HOHO etc despite having acquired first hand information of the nature of case expressed inconveniences and other irrelevant excuses in order to remain in the good books of the perpetrators. Henceforth assertion of representing Nagas on equal and just basis is a complete false hood and a design to serve only ones interest or the interest of only such groups or organizations that embeds them.
May the generations to come keep in record how unfortunate were an era, how unjust, bloody and inciteful were the leaders who bestowed killings, hatred and divisions that prolonged sufferings of the Nagas of not only the present time but handed down a legacy for the coming generations to fight against each other. For each of us is mortal but history shall haunt you from your graves till your eternal abode of life after death and legacy shall continue to uphold and proclaim all through ages your evil deeds.
Akato Chophi Supervisor Union Territoty-1 GPRN, NSCN (K) Isak Sumi Military Spokes- man, People's Army of Nagaland
No corruption in recruitment, says Army The Morung Express
Dimapur, Oct 16 (MExN): The Army has issued a clarification in regard to “many views” about alleged corruption in recruitment to the army asserting that the recruitment system “is the most clean and corruption-free”. “Of late there have been far too many views put forth by various affected citizens about alleged corruption in army recruitment. The recruitment system in the army is the most clean and corruption-free, and epitomizes the selfless, patriotic and honest approach of the organization” maintained a PIB (Defense Wing) clarification.
According to the army, ‘the very small number of vacancies available when viewed from the point of view of the aspirations of the large number of applicants would naturally give rise to a feeling of “dejection”’. “But by no standards, the selection procedure, is prone to corruption at any level” it stated.
The army was of the view that middlemen and touts can have no role to play in the recruitment as the procedure is concluded by “following several steps” where every team of officers of the board are different and “cannot be influence by each other”. This makes the probability of middlemen and touts influencing the recruitment impossible, the release explained.
Cautioning all applicants to stay away from being conned by middlemen or touts, the army asked that faith be placed in the system. “The best have always made it and will always be successful. Moreover, the aggrieved applicants must bring to the notice of the recruiting authorities evidence of any practice of corruption or irregularity as observed in the procedure for recruitment so that all possible steps can be taken to keep the system clean” the army advised.
Talking about Talk Editorial Morung Express
How should nations and peoples respond to issues of incompatible interest, pursuit over limited resources and underlying questions of self-determination? Perhaps, the problem is as ancient as human history. Evidently, human beings have invested more in preparing for and waging war than in any other human enterprise. Most States invest more resources on military preparedness than on education, health and housing combined. Given that human beings have invested primarily in preparation for war as a response to conflict, it should not be surprising when violence quickly occurs during confrontations. After all, as you sow, so shall you reap!
Considering the extent of State militarization, ‘peace processes’ are reduced to nothing more than military rearrangement of life rather than seizing the opportunity to seek genuine resolutions to conflict. The very representation of this process as peace is enough to arouse fears associated with victimization and criticism of the social narrative of suffering. In times of conflict, suffering and sense of victimhood reinforce in constituting an identity, which destroys positive memory of the ‘other.’ The interplay of violence and fear construct memories of inclusion and exclusion from a given historical reality.
Fear fed on a perception of hate and retribution serves as motivator to the violence exercised daily. Babu Ayindo says, “To emphasize retribution is the surest way to poison the seeds of reconciliation. If anything, retribution turns offenders into heroes and fertilizes the circle of violence.” A victim-centered approach deals only with the past, where justice is deemed upon as inflicting suffering on the victimizers. It lacks political will to restore relationship and is the surest way of turning a victim into a victimizer. The power of hate holds a person captive to the past, and is unable to move into a future that demands restoration of right relationship.
The end of real or imaginary fears and the end of victimization with all its political implications, and the admission with public recognition of the ‘other’ is fundamental towards investing and preparing for any realistic hope for a dignified peace. Human experience has shown patterns in which unresolved issues of the past invariably resurfaces in present processes. Recognizing that problems forgotten and memories could return to haunt present dialogues for peace, it becomes a matter of political expediency to constructively address them. Avoidance of old dilemmas could result in delaying the pursuit of a dignified peace. In any process of negotiation, perhaps the most crucial developments take place when the parties involved are Talking about Talk. Talking about Talk enables openness where people do not have to represent official positions, but could share genuine opinions without the dread of implications. Talking about Talk provides room for trust and confidence building and helps address issues of insecurity and fear. It contributes in creating a framework to build political consensus for resolution.
Double standard policy of Indian govt. in Naga affairs In Focus The Morung Express
The Indo-Naga Political struggle is entering 60 years. The first Indo-Naga cease-fire took place in 1964, however, the wrong political mechanism by the Nagas the NNC leadership did not participate in the negotiation and met a political “dead-lock” in 1968. At the same time the govt. of India meddled in the affairs and a group of National workers formed a Revolutionary Government in 1969 and ultimately dissolved in 1972 and joined in the BSF. And it was the first split among the Naga National workers.
In 1975 the Govt. of India created an uphill task of situation in Nagaland against the National Workers and under the compelling situation the Shillong Accord was signed in 1975 and the rest is history. The very signing of the infamous Shillong Accord created a political confusion and chasm among the Naga national Workers, because the NNC leadership did not condemn nor support the Shillong Accord and maintained the political neutrality and thereby the second split took place between the NNC & NSCN in 1980. The third and the most painful split took place in 1988 among the NSCN cadres and the formation of the NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) and the bloody killings started among the Nagas. All these divisive roles are played by the Govt. of India and its intelligent agency and they (Indian) are gleefully watching the situation in Nagaland.
Now it is pertinent to note that in every cease-fire declaration the Govt. of India is playing the political havoc and not to enter a tangible solution with the Nagas. This time also the Indo-Naga cease-fire took place in 1997 and entering 10 years but it is difficult to understand the real situation. In one side it is running a political negotiation mostly in foreign land and in the other side they (Indian) are financing and arming the other factions to fight among the Nagas. But it seems that Naga National Workers do not understand the political reality and fool enough the real game plan played by the Indian govt. just to derail the Indo-Naga political negotiation to fight among the Nagas.
Look! Naga People are well experienced and aware the National Political movement since 1929, and therefore, any faction trying to mislead or fool the people at this juncture without having clear national policy, principle, agenda, blue-print and vision of political destiny will not be supported by the people. Because more than one lakh Naga people have been killed by the Indian Armed Forces. Truly! Naga Political struggle/movement is not a state political party and therefore, the question of defections from one faction to another is not fame but a National shame and the unprincipled and ill-reputed people can not depend his Nation mind you!
The Govt. of India had suppressed the right of the Naga Political movement for the last 50 years from the outside world. And now, they are trying to mislead us in the same pattern of 1964 cease-fire by creating ugly situation among the Nagas to derail the Indo-Naga Political negotiation and handling certain factions by Arms and money. But alas! Naga People are aware the game plans of Indian Govt. “the master and its dogs” and she (Indian) will certainly face the second music before the international community.
Lastly, I am putting a few questions to the Naga National Workers.
1. To whom you are fighting for the cause?
2. Who is your real enemy India or Naga?
3. Have you any Naga National principle agenda, blue-print and political vision to lead the Nagas to the destiny?
4. Are all the Naga NGOs your enemy?
5. Are we fighting for 16 tribes for Nagaland State or for 62 Naga tribes?
6. Are the Tangkhul (South) and the Pangmi (North) tribes not Nagas?
7. Can Indian Money purchase your Naga Political Liberty?
8. Are you ready to fight for Naga cause or Indian cause?
9. Do you think the Naga people can be purchased by Indian money or yield by pressure of your Arms threatening in your own way?
10. Is the International Community support not necessary for the Nagas?
Alas! Naga people are not children in political affairs to be misled by any faction. We are carefully watching the plan and activities. If your faction cannot represent the political interest and aspiration of the Naga people please stop there.
A. Lanu Jamir Kohima
ULFA says it with bullets Nagaland Post
GUWAHATI, OCT 16 (AGENCIES): Bollywood honchos, it seems, are not the only ones to filch ideas - er, get "inspired". These days, the ULFA, too, is drawing "inspiration" from an almost-forgotten practice of Mizo rebels. As if an extortion notice from the ULFA is not menacing enough, the outfit's leadership has taken to sending boxes of bullets to targets of extortion bids as a warning of what might follow if they fail to pay up. The idea is borrowed from the long passé practice of Mizoram-based militant groups, who used to hand-deliver a packet of live bullets to a person to be killed.


But style, often, is old wine in new bottle. So, Ulfa has adopted the Mizo militants' method of "saying it with bullets", but with a twist. Its bullets do not necessarily mean death; rather, they give the person receiving the lethal "gift" an idea of how much time he has to pay up. Ever since its birth 27 years ago, the Ulfa has been issuing extortion notes on its letterhead bearing its symbol - a rising sun. These notes were invariably sent to big business houses and tea garden owners. But with many firms shifting base, the resources have dried up. Consequently, the outfit has been targeting average employees and petty traders, serving them demand notes with 'gift-wrapped' bullets. Take the case of Prafulla Bora. Posted in the state capital, this central government employee from Arandhara village in Sivasagar district was dumbstruck when two persons knocked on his door and asked his wife to pay up Rs 5 lakh. Bora informed the police, only to be handed a letter containing three live bullets. The letter, signed by ULFA's 28 battalion commander Jibon Moran, set him a week's deadline that expired last week. Petty traders across the state have received similar letters. One of them, who runs a small business in the Maligaon locality here, approached the Kamrup Chamber of Commerce for help. A spokesman of the Chamber said they subsequently informed Senior Superintendent of Police Nitul Gogoi. The trader, though, was more fortunate than Bora in the sense that he was asked to pay Rs 2 lakh less and gifted only one bullet, which the police said probably meant he had more time to manage the "donation" for the outfit's "revolutionary cause".
ULFA warns of intensifying activities By A Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Oct 16 – The banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) has been quick in acknowledging that Gautom Kalita, the man who was killed in an explosion in Kahilipara here Saturday night, was its own man. The outfit, in the latest issue of its mouthpiece Freedom, described Kalita, a resident of Patarkushi village under Rangiya police station as a “freedom fighter”.

Freedom was released through e-mail today and the ULFA said Kalita was killed while carrying the bomb with him. It, however, did not say anything more about the incident though the outfit warned that the “Asom-Indo political conflict” would further intensify if the Army ignores public opinion to continue with its “atrocities” upon the masses in the name of anti-ULFA operations.
The ULFA said the re-launching of operations against the ULFA by the Unified Command has annulled the possibility of resumption of the peace process between the outfit and the Government of India (GoI). It alleged that despite the ULFA’s keenness for direct talks with the representatives of “colonial India” for a respectable solution to the “Asom-Indo political conflict”, the GoI has made no change in strategy of “continuous military terrorism, secret killing, anti-ULFA campaign and harassing innocent masses of Asom.” “The consequence of the misdeeds and half-hearted reciprocation of India to the cordiality exhibited by ULFA for peace process have bruised the hearts of the masses but their zeal in participation in the struggle for restoration of lasting peace has not ebbed by any degree,” the outfit claimed The ULFA alleged that in the last one year about 100 innocent people have become victims of the Army’s “brutal murder” though the Army has asserted that it would abide by the rule of law. It said that “colonial India” must realise that military action will face doom in the end.

Babudom snubs media at Mao By Our Staff Reporter Sanagi Express
MAO, Oct 16 : Officialdom snubbed a horde of reporters who were escorted up to Mao by the Government to cover the visit of President APJ Abdul Kalam. What is more the passes issued by the SP of CID (Special Branch) to the reporters after the formality of checking their credentials were finalised days earlier were not respected by his own men at Mao today, leaving the reporters a flustered lot. The reporters from Imphal based newspaper establishments had gone to Mao following invitations from the Directorate of Information and Public Relations. They were also armed with the passes which were verified by the SP of CID (Special Branch).
The media team was in for a rude shock when they were brusquely told by personnel from the CID that they could not proceed from the point where the President was to be accorded the reception by the DC of Senapati. Even the cameraman and reporter deputed by the DIPR were not allowed to proceed beyond the said point. However some other individuals, not from the media, but who were armed with cameras were allowed to enter. In an interesting turn, the CID staff soon realised that the media team had in fact come to cover the President's programme and the gate was thrown open to the media persons. However the peeved reporters “lauded their security arrangements” and turned down their “invitation.”
The reporters from Imphal stayed put at some other place waiting for the programme of the President to get over. The people of Mao on the other hand rolled out the red carpet to the President and greeted him with a soulful rendition of Sare Jahan Se Accha... The President also interacted with the children of the area and went past a security cordon to greet and shake hands with children and exchange greetings.

Deserted streets but rousing welcomes at reception venues for Kalam The Imphal Free Press
IMPHAL, Oct 16: President APJ Abdul Kalam arrived in Imphal today amidst a general strike called by the Apuba Lup and supported by a number of civil society and students` orgnisations. After his arrival the President proceeded straight to Kanchipur to attend the 10th convocation ceremony of Manipur University.
Addressing the convocation, the President said that the Universities in the Northeast region and Manipur in particular must marshal their resources to develop a bio-diversity database of the region and suggest how best to use it economically without causing environmental degradation.
The 10th convocation function of the Manipur University, which was held this morning at its centenary hall. Manipur Governor SS Sidhu, Chief Minister, O Ibobi Singh, Chancellor Manipur University professor PN Shrivastava and vice-chancellor Ch Amuba Singh attended the function.

Kalam expressed the need for giving greater focus on research for developing herbal medicinal products. He said "I visualize Manipur state having herbal farms and also transform herbs to drugs" acknowledging the rich bio-diversity of the region and of Manipur in particular. "Manipur should aim to have a pharma company. This would help in providing employment opportunities to our youths and give a fillip to industrialization in the state," he said. Kalam spoke on the topic on "Empowering the Youths" which he chose for today`s convocation. Sharing his thoughts with the students community he said, "Learning gives creativity, Creativity leads to thinking, Thinking provides knowledge, Knowledge makes you great". He told the students that their life is indeed a continuous process of acquisition of knowledge which will equip them to face life beyond the universities. Manipur University being at the apex of the educational pyramid of the state of Manipur, he said, "It has therefore a dynamic and challenging role to discharge by way of enriching the state, the North-eastern region and thereby the nation as a whole".

He also said that research projects seeking to generate useful data which in turn can be used for evaluating trade prospects in select sectors ought to be encouraged. This in turn would enhance the economic prospect of the people of the state, said the President. Kalam said, "In the present WTO regime of globalization, liberalization and removal of trade barriers, exploration of trade links with the neighbouring countries is on the rise" adding that "Manipur shares its border with Myanmar and other North-eastern states with Bhutan, Tibet, China and Bangladesh." So the University should consider taking up special courses to facilitate border trade. Language often acts as a barriers to trade, he said and suggested that the Manipur University should launch certificate and diploma courses in the foreign languages spoken in the neighbouring countries to impart the requisite linguistic proficiency and skill amongst the students. Manipur Governor SS Sidhu and Chief Minister, O Ibobi Singh also spoke at the convocation ceremony.

During his speech Ibobi Singh proposed to the President for opening centres for Manipuri studies and Seismology in the Manipur University which became a Central University one year back. Ibobi in support of his proposal said, Manipur being a meeting point of South East Asian countries, developing Manipuri language would help in India`s Look East Policy. Manipur being situated in the high risk earth quake zone of the world, Ibobi observed "Knowledge of seismology would be of great help to the people of the state in particular and in the North Eastern region in general." Governor, Dr. SS Sidhu spoke on the role of quality education for a peaceful and developed society. He also hoped that the state and the nation will march forward with the "Vision 2020" of President Abdul Kalam. He said that the national mission of transforming the nation into a developed country by 2020 could be achieved with full participation of the students of today. Earlier, President arrived at Tulihal airport by a special flight. He was received at the airport by the Governor SS Sidhu, Chief Minister, O Ibobi Singh and his cabinet ministers.

Among the ministers who arrived at the airport to receive the President, included forest minister Th Debendra Singh arts and culture minister Ph Parijat Singh, commerce and industries minister N Mangi Singh, youth affairs and sports minister Gobindas Konthoujam, information minister TN Haokip, cooperation minister W Leima, health and family welfare minister D Korungthang rural development and panchayati raj minister Md. Allauddin Khan. The President of India was accompanied by major general Binod Chopra, press secretary to President SS Khan, press director Satish Mathur, secretary to President H Seridhon, scientist YS Rajan, OSD, major general Swaminathan etc. He was also received by the children of Heritage Convention, Uripok at the airport. President APJ Abdul Kalam visited Exotic Juice Limited at Punanemei, Mao in Senapati district after the convocation function and also proceeded to Bunglon, a small village in Churchandpur district to inspect a high school there.

Kalam left for Aizawl this afternoon for his onward tour to Mizoram. Adds John Basho Pou from Mao : Amidst the strikes, sit-in protest rallies and other forms of agitations initiated by various NGOs and social activists against his maiden visit to Manipur, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, President of India successfully landed on a remote destination, Mao, Senapati under heavy security. The President landed at Imphal Airport this morning and inaugurated Manipur University Convocation before he took off to Mao, Exotic & Juice Private Ltd owned by Losii Dikho located at Mao, Punanamai. He was accompanied by Ibobi Singh, Chief Minister of Manipur, Dr.S.S.Sidhu, Governor of Manipur, and Jarnail Singh, Chief Secretary who were also flown in by the two Helicopters which landed at the site of the firm. Others VIP at the President`s Mao visit included Francis Ngajokpa, Minister and R.K.Thekho,MLA and Dr.Prem Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Senapati and representatives from various organizations.

He was given a warm welcome by the locals in traditional attire with great excitement and jubilation. President went round and inspected the site of the plants, known to be the biggest passion fruits processing unit in Asia. He encouraged the endeavour taken up by the Exotic & Juice Private Ltd, describing it as a pride of India. Speaking at the reception consisting mainly of school children and farmers, President said, "The future of our society depends on what our little children learn today. They are the pillars of tomorrow." And he further said, "The society must avoid any form of violations, especially women`s rights violation. Society should respect and protect women`s rights. As long as there is violation in the society, peace can`t prevail." Stressing on the significance of fraternity in a secular and democratic state, he said, " our horizon must be broadened with openness, with feeling of oneness and brotherhood among the citizens of India, irrespective of creed, sex, social status, religion, race etc. Then society can grow with great prosperity". After a brief interaction with dignitaries for about 50 minutes, the President left for Churandchanpur. There he also visited the Dunglon Private School which has 350 students and 15 teachers under the Principal, Gin Gangte, the recipient of Jewel of India Award. In the interaction with the students and others dignitaries, President assured them a financial package of Rs.15 lacs for up grading the school infrastructures. President kalam also promised to extend help for the development of Dunglon village, installation of food processing unit for gingers, pineapples and other fruits available in the village.
The President then left foe Mizoram, the last leg of his tour of the north eastern states.
CPI(ML) wants withdrawal of AFSPA By a Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI, Oct 16: The CPI(ML) has renewed its demand for the withdrawal of the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act or AFSPA from the North-east.
“State-sponsored terrorism is back in Asom following the breakdown of the ULFA peace process, the party said.”
The party has demanded an immediate end to “harassment” of innocent people in the name of Army operations against the proscribed ULFA. Asom unit secretary of the party, Rubul Sarma, said his party has extended support to the people of upper Asom in their struggle against the “inhuman torture”.
He alleged that the Centre was dragging its feet over the report of the Jeevan Reddy Commission which has recommended the repeal of the AFSPA. The Government should publish the report immediately, he added.


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