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11/16/2006: "Rio advertises ‘Vision 2020 Nagaland’ to NE chiefs The Morung Express"


Rio advertises ‘Vision 2020 Nagaland’ to NE chiefs The Morung Express

Dimapur, Nov 15 (MExN): Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio highlighted his governments “Vision 2020 document” containing envisage developmental thrusts for the coming decade, at the 53rd meeting of the NEC held November 15-16 at New Delhi. Opening his remarks, Rio said that the vision for greater development of the Northeast region be discussed since the region is on the threshold of the 11th Five Year Plan, which will also be the first five year plan of NEC as a statutory planning body . Nagaland has already prepared its own “Vision 2020” document, which has been incorporated in the Human Development Report of Nagaland 2004, he informed. “It would be appreciated if some of the aspirations of the State Government, as highlighted in the Vision 2020 chapter of the State Human Development Report 2004, are also incorporated while finalizing the Vision NER 2020 document” Rio asked. He then proceeded to highlight the state’s visions for economic development as well as for the region. Rio highlighted agri and allied sectors. He said that the main thrust areas for the 11th plan, as far as Nagaland is concerned, should be agriculture and allied sectors.
“The favorable land-man ratio, the good rainfall and temperate climatic conditions, the naturally fertile soil which supports luxuriant growth of all kinds of plants, are some of the advantages and potentials that can be exploited to harvest rich dividends, and to produce exportable surplus sufficient to sustain the State’s economy at a sufficiently high levels of development. Horticulture, floriculture, sericulture, aromatic and medicinal plants, animal husbandry and bee keeping etc. can be taken up on commercial scales, with organic farming as an essential element to enhance its market value. As a corollary to this, we shall have to develop food processing industries for value addition, post-harvesting and marketing infra-structures, including agri-link roads to potential areas etc” he explained.
Rio also stated called for embarking for reality the oft-discussed NE Express Highway linking all State capitals, with private public partnership. Railway line from Dimapur to Kohima, and construction of a new green field airport at Chiethu (Kohima), both of which are presently under investigation, should be expedited, he said. Another Railway line from Dimapur to Tizit via the foothills of Nagaland, and roads of economic importance connecting the eastern belt of the State are other priority areas to open up the agricultural and mineral rich belts of Nagaland, he pointed out. Other priority areas Rio highlighted are Hydro-power development and tourism.
“While the vast hydro-power potential of the N.E. region should be exploited to produce exportable surplus, at the same time, the vast potentials for mini and micro-hydel power plants should be harnessed for power self–sufficiency in power at the grass root level, and also to avoid high transmission loss and costs” Rio advised while informing that the experiment with the Chinese-made hydroger has shown that simple technology can be conveniently and economically introduced on a large scale in all rural areas.
On tourism, Rio presented his vision: “The North East could be marketed as a common tourist destination, and attractive tourist circuits to fit various pocket sizes can be worked out and advertised world wide through internet. In this regard, the proposed creation of ‘North East Tourism Development Council’ is a welcome step. However, he cautioned that the NE region is projected as a tourist paradise, the ‘out-dated’ RAP/PAP regimes, “which were the product of the Cold War era, and which do not appear to serve any useful purpose now,” shall have to be further relaxed, or altogether removed from the statute book. The Chief Minister also called for revival and modernization of traditional handlooms and handicrafts, along with their patenting dynamics as well as opening of trade with South East Asian countries, not only to boost trade and economy, but also to remove the sense of isolation and neglect felt so long by the people of the region. In this connection, the ‘Look East’ policy of the Government of India needs to be better defined and crystallized into specific action programmes, so that it does not remain a mere ‘policy statement’ or a ‘attractive slogan’, he remarked.
Rio then highlighted the need for empowering the youths. According to him, training and capacity building to enable them to find gainful employment, in the organized sector, or to be self-employed as entrepreneurs should be pursued. For this purpose, appropriate technical and training institutes, such as Engineering Colleges, institutes of communication and information technology etc. may be set up within the region itself, instead of solely depending on institutions outside the region, Rio advised the attending policy-makers. Further, the existing ITIs also need to be expanded and modernized, their syllabi upgraded to suit the market demands for technicians, promote youth activities in the areas of sports, music, art and culture, and necessary sports infrastructures and other facilities, Rio said. “These measures may also be seen as means of weaning away the youth from insurgency and other destructive tendencies” he said informing that the country spends huge sums of money on army and paramilitary forces being deployed in the region on counter-insurgency duties. “This money could perhaps, be better used for youth empowerment and other development activities, which may, in the long run, prove to be more effective in countering insurgencies in the region’ he suggested. Micro credit facilities & strengthening and widening the scope of existing good practices.
To realize all these ‘visions’ a credit infrastructure is need he reminded. Rio said that the CD ratio in Nagaland is one of the lowest in the country, and currently hovers around 23%, against the national average of 60%. The private money lenders are charging exorbitant and back breaking rates of interest. Out of 52 R.D. Blocks in the State, as many as 21 RD Blocks, covering 421 villages, are still without any banking facilities. “Our success in communitisation of public services and institutions in rural areas have demonstrated the strength of our village communities and traditional institutions. Hence, we propose to provide micro credit in our rural areas through the VDB (Village Development Board) by using them as credit channelzing agencies. This is considered to be the surest way of reaching cheap credit in rural areas, combined with assured recovery” he said and solicited “liberal financial assistance” from various agencies of the Central Government in making available the initial corpus fund to the VDBs. Other vision areas the Chief Minister presented included promotion of border trade and construction of roads in border areas, Bamboo missions, ecology and environment, maintenance of roads constructed with NEC funds, making NEC as effective planning and implementing body etc.
To contest in interest of Nagas The Morung Express In Focus
The tribals of Manipur constitute a sizable percentage of total population consisting of abut 30 odd tribes living in the five hill districts namely Chandel, Churchandpur, Tamenglong, Senapati and Ukhrul. For centuries they have been living independently cocooned off from the rest having their unique cultures, customs and a way of life. But today the world is ever-changing; it is passing through a stage of transition. Situation on the worldstage is undergoing rapid transformation. The tribals have not been left affected. They have become endangered tribes, some have become extinct, and others have been assimilated by bigger and larger communities and many more in various stages of transition. The tribals of Manipur too are going through such similar phases and have but been left undisturbed.
Our indigenous cultures and customs are under constant threat of breaking down and being lost, through acculturation and assimilation processes. I would like to mention some of the issues and problems they are facing today- the imposition of Meitei Mayek, plantation of land mines in the hill areas, non-reservation for tribals in central educational institutions like RIMS, CAU, MU etc., non-existence of employment avenues, lack of educational facilities, health facilities and the dismal or almost absent of basic minimum infrastructure in majority of the hill areas. These issues must be tackled together with conviction and without compromise. Even our constitutional rights are trampled upon frequently, so it is important we keep vigil. Some tribal organizations are already doing good work in safe guarding the rights of the tribal people and therefore it is only befitting that we all work towards advancing our cause together.
At the same time, the Nagas are going through a crucial moment in their history. It is an opportune time for the Nagas to decide what they want. We must strengthen the peace process and support the integration of all Naga areas. The future is what we make of it, it is in our hands. How we act today will decide what the future will be like for us. In the light of this, the United Naga Council (UNC)’s call to the Nagas time and again to work together in support of solution is praise worthy. As the apex civil organization of the Nagas in Manipur, it has been playing a decisive role in strengthening the peace process.
It is in this context that as a concerned Naga citizen, I shall abide by any direction or decision taken by the UNC with regards to the forthcoming state assembly election in the interest of the Nagas.
Francis Huten Intending candidate for the forthcoming Manipur assembly election.from 41 A/C, Chandel.
Many decry Kohima killing The Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Nov 15 : Strongly condemning the cold blooded murder of Enoch Shinglai by misguided gunmen, the UNC, NPMHR (South), NWUM & ANSAM in a joint statement have denounced the random targeting and killings of a particular community in the name of Naga nationalism. The joint statement was signed by KS Paul Leo, president UNC, Paulhring Langhu, president ANSAM, Grace Shatsang, president NWUM and Phamhring Sengul, Convenor, NPMHR South. The statement said that such inhumane atrocities within ‘our Naga family has inflicted social imbalance and further hindered our efforts to bring under- standing. It also prejudices our respect for human rights and human value.’
Urging all sensible Naga citizens to play proactive role in preventing criminal activities, the statement said that if such calculated crimes are allowed to go scott free, the ethical values of human existence is at the verge of extinction. The statement went on to question, ‘With the rising rate of widow(s) and orphan(s) due to these mindless executions of innocent public, can the Naga people as a mother, a husband or children or the Church remain insensitive to the whole show of the hangman’s knot? The joint statement called upon the State Govt of Nagaland to beefed up security measures and evolve steps to control criminal activity. In a similar vein it also called upon factions of Naga nationalist to put an end random taking of innocent human life. It also expressed condolences to family members of late Enoch Shinglai.
Neiphiu Rio urges party workers to be well-prepared for challenges The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, NOV 15 (MExN): The meeting of Central Executive Committee of the NPF was held on November 13 at the state banquet hall, Kohima. Senior ministers including Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and both the Members of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) were also present in the meeting.
Rio, who is also Advisor in the NPF Central office, asserted that the NPF-led DAN government has initiated major development in Nagaland within the last three and eight months ‘which the Congress in ten years in power could not do so.’ He went on to say that the Opposition Congress predicted DAN government to fall within three months, than to one year, two years and now propagating for PR ‘like an acrobat.’ The Chief Minister also advised party workers not to be distracted by the opponents but be prepared to face any challenge later on.
The house also congratulated the Chief Minister on his ‘triumph’ on the ‘Office of Profit’ issue, where the Opposition Congress filed a case against him demanding disqualification for holding the post of the Chairman, Nagaland Bamboo Mission and the Nagaland Sports Association. It may be noted that the Chief Election Commission had issued a notification and subsequently the Governor of Nagaland issued an order on November 6 to the effect that Neiphiu Rio cannot be disqualified from the purview of the ‘office of Profit’ provisions.
Minister as well as President of the NPF, Dr Shurhozelie in his presidential address urged the party workers to pledge to maintain ‘the highest ideals of morality’ the party has as expressed in its Latin motto “Fide Non Armis”, meaning “By faith, not arms”. Wangyu Konyak, MP Lok Sabha also addressing the party workers, asserted that the purview of delimitation will not be affected in Nagaland. He also appealed to the party workers to be steadfast and loyal.
Ministers Noke and Khekiho Zhimomi, Parliamentary Secretary Nyeiwang, NPF General Secretary Chubatemjen as well as presidents of NPF women and youth wings also spoke in the meeting. Some resolutions were also passed after the deliberations.
Minister Logon delivered the welcome address while IK Sema, Working President, chaired the meeting. Benri, Pastor Lotha Baptist Church, Kohima read out the scripture and said a prayer while T Kikon, Treasurer, pronounced the benediction.
Cease-fire causing difficulty for Nagaland police Kuknalim.com
KOHIMA, Nov 15:: Nagaland police has been facing difficulty in containing the violence among the underground outfits due to the Centre's prevailing Cease-fire Agreement with the two NSCN factions state Director General of Police (DGP) J Changkija said.

Inaugurating a function at the Superintendent of Police's office yesterday, Mr Changkija said with the prevailing Cease-fire, the state police force had shortage of manpower to confront the factional clashes. However, he claimed that despite frequent factional clashes there was a relative peace in the state. The DGP also said the state police had no problem in dealing with the law and order situation other than factional clashes. (Agencies)
NPF led govt has brought more development than Cong': Rio Kuknalim.com
DIMAPUR, Nov 15:: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has claimed that the NPF led DAN government had undertaken major development works in the state within three years and eight months of its rule which the Congress could not do so in ten years.
Rio also alleged that the opposition Congress had predicted that the DAN government would fall "within three months, then to one year, two year and now propagating for PR like an acrobat".

Rio who is also the advisor of the NPF Central Office speaking at the meeting of the NPF Central Executive Committee at State Banquet Hall on November 13 urged the party workers not to get "annoyed on the opponents and enemies" but to be prepared to face any challenge.

The NPF in a press release issued by its associate press secretary N Chuba Yim said that the house also congratulated Rio on his "triumph on the so-called Office of Profit issue".

Lok Sabha MP Wangyuh Konyak who also spoke on the occasion disclosed that "delimitation will not be affected in Nagaland". Minister Noke, Minister Khekiho, NPF secretary general Chubatemjen, parliamentary secretary Nyeiwang, presidents of women and youth wing, convenor farmers' wing also spoke on the occasion.
Earlier, Minister Longon delivered the welcome address, NPF president Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu delivered the presidential address. Scripture reading and prayer was offered by Benri, pastor Lotha Baptist Church Kohima and T Kikon, treasurer pronounced the closing prayer while NPF working president IK Sema chaired the programme. (NPN)
Northeast ‘Vision Document’ by Jan NE states must be proactive to get funds: Aiyar The Morung Express

New Delhi, Nov 15 (IANS): Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DONER) Mani Shankar Aiyar Wednesday said the Vision Document 2020 - a roadmap for developing the northeast - would be finalised by January 2007. Inaugurating a meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC) here, the apex planning body of the eight states, Aiyar announced that periodical reviews of various infrastructure projects earmarked for the region would also be taken up from next month onwards to ensure their timely implementation.
The minister said construction of new roads to provide better connectivity even to the remotest of villages would be taken up on priority basis. Aiyar said he would talk with civil aviation ministry officials for making Guwahati as the regional hub for airlines.
The two-day NEC meeting is being attended by governors and chief ministers of the eight northeastern states. Chaired by Aiyar, the meeting would review developmental plans and strategy for the region. It would also deliberate upon areas of specific concern to each State and prospective plans for the region.
The meeting assumes significance after Aiyar took charge of DONER from P.R. Kyndiah who was found ‘not doing enough for the development of the region’.
Immediately after taking charge, Aiyar had said he would like his ministry to be a full-fledged one and not one dependent on the non-lapsable central pool of resources. Aiyar in his address also asked the northeastern states to act in a proactive manner to address a massive shortfall in the norm for all central ministries to spend ten per cent of their budget in the region.
With figures showing that spending by the central ministry had fallen from 10.16 per cent in 2004-05 to 8.15 per cent in 2005-06, Aiyer said, “The job should have been done by the departments concerned.”
He asked the eight states of the North East to adopt a “proactive approach” to ensure that they submitted projects on time to receive funding from the non-lapsable pool of central funds.
Figures given by Sushma Singh, Secretary of the Ministry of Development of the North East, showed spending by Central ministries in the region had risen from 6.63 per cent of their budgets in 1998-1999 to 10.16 per cent in 2004-05 before falling to 8.15 per cent in 2005-06.
There were huge shortfalls in key sectors like roads and highways (Rs 629 crore), education, (Rs 474 crore) health (Rs 370 crore), power (Rs 161 crore) and agriculture (Rs 99.64 crore). With inputs from PTI
Insurgents carry out grenade attack on Manipur CM’s house The Morung Express
GUWAHATI, Nov 15 (PTI): Separatist guerrillas carried out a grenade attack on the home of the chief minister of Manipur, police said on Wednesday. Rebels of the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) tossed the grenade at Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh’s residence in the state capital Imphal late on Tuesday, a senior police official said.
“The grenade exploded inside the campus of the chief minister’s residence, but luckily no one was injured,” he said. Singh was in New Delhi at the time of the attack.
PREPAK, an outlawed rebel group fighting for an independent homeland for the majority Metei community in the state of 2.4 million people, claimed responsibility for the attack.
Singh has survived two previous assassination attempts by rebels. In May, militants ambushed his convoy. He escaped unhurt, but a paramilitary commando and a rebel were killed in the encounter. In 2003, militants killed three of the chief minister’s security guards in another ambush on his convoy. There are some 19 rebel groups active in Manipur, which borders Myanmar. Their demands range from secession to autonomy and the right to self determination. More than 10,000 people have been killed in the insurgency in Manipur in the past two decades.
Imagine Mokokchung The Morung Express perspective
Imagine Mokokchung a couple of centuries ago. The light of modernity had not yet dawned in our land and I am certain that life must have been pretty hard then. But our forefathers survived! They led a simple life and called this land home. It is because of their valour and sacrifice that we have a land to call our own today and I am so proud to have descended from these upright souls who knew no fear. Imagine Mokokchung fifty years back. Things slowly began to change.
Christianity got deeply rooted by then, education had spread, modernity had dawned, Naga Nationalism witnessed its heights, the land was developing, roads were constructed – things improved. Imagine Mokokchung today. We have all the modern amenities, we have English medium educational institutions, we have RCC buildings beautifying the skyline and we have the asphalt with modern fancy cars plying upon them, we have electricity and water supply, we have telephones and cellular phones, we have modern transport and communication systems, our market is growing rapidly and things are changing fast. Life’s improving by the day!
That’s Mokokchung then and now in brief. How do you imagine Mokokchung in the next twenty-five years? I believe every one of us has certain dreams as individuals, but do we have a collective dream for our future? For our home? For Mokokchung? I have a dream, the Mokokchung Dream, and I’d dare to share my dream here.
Mokokchung is relatively the fastest developing town in Nagaland and in all possibilities can become a “dream town”. Here’s how: Mokokchung is Nagaland’s cleanest town. Can’t we the people of Mokokchung make this beautiful town the world’s cleanest town? Yes we can. Imagine a corruption-free Mokokchung where not a single paisa in the public account is misused, where there’s no nepotism, favouritism or bribery and where the guilty goes punished. And if Shillong can make or break a world record, why can’t Mokokchung? Yes we can, definitely. If Darjeeling, situated at an altitude of 2,134 meters above sea level can have railway connectivity, why can’t Mokokchung? We’re situated at merely 1,325 meters above sea level as compared to Darjeeling! And our terrain is even more feasible for railroads than Darjeeling’s. The Mokokchung-Mariani Border Road is too narrow. Can’t it be widened and made into a two-lane highway, like the one between Kohima and Dimapur? We can! Traffic-jam in Mokokchung was a “rare encounter” just about five years ago, but it’s a “daily encounter” today. Shall we dream for flyovers here in Mokokchung? I have a feeling that we’ll be necessitated to build them in the near future anyway. Coming to sports infrastructure, we have the Imkongmeren Sports Complex. Why not dream for an “Imkongmeren National Stadium” with all the modern amenities like the ones we see on TV?
Imagine Mokokchung producing 50 metric tons of potatoes annually instead of importing them from Assam. Impossible? Possible. Longkhum village alone produces almost 2 metric tons of potatoes annually. Let’s trigger an agricultural revolution!
Now, before you read on, I’d like to request you to pause for a moment and imagine Mokokchung of your dreams … Pause. Dream. Dream on!
Alright, let’s continue. We have a Nursing School at Imkongliba Memorial Hospital. Can’t we have a full-fledged Medical School then? It’s yes again.
We also have the Nagaland University Head Quarters at Lumami, which is just a mere thirty minutes drive from the town. Why don’t we do some thinking and make this town an educational center? Mokokchung town’s market is growing rapidly and is fast becoming a commercial hub for the districts of Mokokchung, Longleng, Tuensang and Zunheboto. But why is it that two-thirds of the town’s business establishments happen to be in the hands of the immigrants? In Aizawl, Mizoram, all business establishments are in the hands of the local Mizos. Right from the CEO of the biggest business house, down to the last shoe-shiner in the street is a local Mizo. Why can’t it be so in Mokokchung? Imagine Mokokchung with giant shopping malls and departmental stores. Imagine Mokokchung with ATM booths working round the clock!
Mokokchung’s development has all along been “vertical”. Wouldn’t it be better if we develop our town in the “horizontal” plane? I mean, why don’t we take our developmental and commercial activities farther away from the “main town” to areas like Yimyu, Sungkomen, Marepkong and beyond? We are peace lovers. We simply enjoy frolicking and we want recreation. Why don’t we build an amusement park for ourselves? With such a vibrant motley cultural heritage in the background, why don’t we engage ourselves in some imagination and bring our culture to the forefront and claim our rightful place as Nagaland’s capital of art and culture?
Media has always played an important role in bringing about changes in the modern history of mankind. Why don’t we bring out a periodical exclusively for Mokokchung? (Some of us had had this idea conceived some time ago and are working on it. We need a little more time, some money and a lot of support). We also know that the internet has revolutionized the world. Why is it that we don’t have broadband internet connections in Mokokchung, whilst even Kohima and Dimapur have it? Why don’t we build a couple of websites for Mokokchung? (We are also working on building an interactive website for the people of Mokokchung and I believe it will see the light of day real soon).
One may say that dreams are dreams - but living one’s dream is different from dreaming one’s life away! I am a dreamer and there are two things that I love the most about dreams. One, dreams are infinite. Two, dreams come true. Dreams are not wishful-thinking. Dreams do come true. The Mokokchung
Dream can come true, too. “Imagination”, said Einstein “is more than knowledge. It is a preview of life’s coming attractions”. Imagine yourself twenty-five years from now. Imagine Mokokchung twenty-five years from now.
Limalenden Longkumer Mokokchung
1 shot dead Nagareal.com
KOHIMA, NOV15 [NPN] : In a suspected factional-related killing, one person was shot dead in the capital town Wednesday at around 4 pm, on the footpath, opposite the main gate of the Kohima War cemetery. The victim was later identified as 26-year old 'Khokho' alias Peter and son of Yansao of Viswema village.
The victim was shot at close range on the back and collapsed dead after about twenty feet. The bullet, fired from an AK 47 rifle, exited from the middle of the chest.

Police rushed to the spot and recovered an empty case of AK assault rifle including an incriminating document purportedly issued by the NSCN (K) from the pocket of the deceased. Police said the victim had defected from one faction and involved in extortion
ULFA says Govt behind By Indian Express
Breaking its silence on the twin blasts of November 5 that left 15 people dead in Guwahati, the outlawed United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) held the government responsible for the explosions. "India had deliberately carried out the blasts with the object to prolong the ban on ULFA," the outfit's mouthpiece Freedom, which was e-mailed to newspaper offices here on Wednesday night, said. The editorial of Freedom alleged that the explosions were caused by the government to increase the strength of the "occupational forces to perpetuate atrocities against the freedom-craving masses". Simultaneously, the ULFA also made it clear that it was still in favour of a political resolution to the "Indo-Assam conflict", but not before adding that New Delhi "must" send a formal proposal through the People's Consultative Group (PCG) and that the core issue of the talks should be "restoration of sovereignty of Asom". The outfit, which has suffered several losses in Upper Assam following renewed counter-insurgency operations after the breakdown of the peace process last month, also reiterated that sovereignty was the only way for restoration of peace in Assam. "Liberated and sovereign Assam is the only way out" the ULFA's mouthpiece said. The outfit also issued what it termed as a "stern warning" to the Assam Police and asked it to immediately stop atrocities on the common people in the name of operations against the ULFA. "But despite the ULFA's soft stand towards them, the Assam Police have recently displayed a draconian attitude towards the masses," it said. The ULFA mouthpiece also pointed out that the government had recently adopted a multi-agency approach to tackle the outfit, and appealed to the common people not to cooperate with the "Indian occupational forces and other colonial agencies".
ULFA wants fresh letter from Delhi to begin talks By IANS
Guwahati, Nov 15 (IANS) The outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) Wednesday said it was ready to accept New Delhi's offer for fresh peace talks if the Indian government communicates the proposal formally. 'ULFA cares for a political resolution and to keep the process rolling, India must send a proposal through the PCG (People's Consultative Group) and the core issue of the talks should be restoration of sovereignty of Assam,' the ULFA said in a statement in its fortnightly newsletter Freedom.
The latest offer for talks was made by India's National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan during a meeting Monday in New Delhi with two ULFA representatives - noted Assamese writer Indira Goswami and Rebati Phukan. Government peace negotiators told the mediators to ask the ULFA leadership to set a date for talks. The Indian government Sept 24 called off a six-week ceasefire and resumed military operations blaming the ULFA for stepping up attacks and extortions.
Peace talks between ULFA representatives and the Indian government formally broke last month after the PCG, a civil society team appointed by the rebels to mediate for talks, pulling out of the peace process blaming New Delhi for calling off the truce. There were three rounds of talks between the ULFA chosen PCG and the Indian government peace negotiators.
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during the first meeting with the PCG in October last year said the government was ready to 'discuss all issues' with the ULFA. The ULFA wants the release of five of their jailed leaders as a precondition to holding peace talks. New Delhi in return wants the rebel leadership to commit in writing that they would come for direct negotiations if the jailed militants were released. The ULFA is not willing to give it in writing leading to the collapse of the peace process.
China softens on Arunachal Nagaland Post
NEW DELHI, NOV 15 (AGENCIES): As India prepares to receive President Hu Jintao next week, China has said the two countries must make "mutual compromises" on "disputed" issue of Arunachal Pradesh and that it was ready to do so. The two countries, through "friendly consultations", can arrive at a "mutually-acceptable and mutually-satisfactory" solution to the issue "left over from history," Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Yuxi told a news agency in an interview at New Delhi. Insisting that Arunachal is a "disputed area", Sun said there need to be discussions on it. "We must make mutual compromises (on Arunachal).
We are ready to make compromises on that," he said, just five days ahead of Hu's maiden four-day visit to India. Beijing claims that entire Arunachal Pradesh is "Chinese territory". When referred to External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee's remark on Tuesday that Arunachal is an integral part of India, the Chinese envoy said "If you want to know that (about dispute) you can compare maps of the two countries. There are differences. So that is why we call it disputed area and (that) needs some discussions." He said there should be "some give and take" on the issue and that it was for negotiators of the two countries to ascertain where to make compromises.
The Chinese envoy said the two countries had agreed not to allow their boundary dispute to affect the development of relations in other areas. During Hu's visit, China will reaffirm its commitment to that understanding, Sun said. The boundary question has been discussed since 2003 by Special Representatives of the two countries who have held eight rounds of talks so far.
While the Indian side is represented by National Security Adviser M K Narayanan, China is represented by Vice Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo. "The Special Representatives are now working out the famework (of an agreement on the boundary issue)," Sun said, expressing satisfaction at the progress made by them. The two sides had signed the "Political Parameters and Guiding Principles" Agreement during Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao's visit here in May last year, under which they agreed to settle their pending disputes through talks. Sun, said despite the pending boundary dispute, overall relations between the world's two biggest developing countries have been witnessing rapid growth. During the President's visit, Sun said, the two countries will set up a mechanism for frequent high-level exchanges. They will also sign at least 12 pacts including a Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement (BIPA) and one on establishing a regional free trade arrangement.
An appeal to governor of Nagaland Nagaland Post Opinion
We the Educated unemployed Youth of Nagaland would like to submit this appeal against corruption, nepotism, favourtism and rampant illegal practice under Police Department for ordering high level inquiry or C.B.I. Investigation in the interest of public in general. This Sir, Police Department is not only guardian of the law also biggest establishment in the State of Nagaland. The maximum job opportunities for Naga youth both educated and half educated can be employed in this department if Govt. and Police Department adhered to rules and procedures. However sadly this Department is appeared to be the most corrupt nepotism and favourtism, we therefore would like to highlight some of the facts for inquiry or investigation by Central Agency.
1. Since 2003 except the recruitment of 11th and 12th IRB, not a single advertisement has issue by the Department. Whereas there are 1000 officers and personnel are going on retirement every year.
2. As per the media report and State Assembly debate, there are more than 400 constables who have been appointed in excess in different units which seemed to be in addition to the resultant vacancies arise every year. All these appointments were made without conducting open competition.
3. In the last three in half years, the DGP has recruited more than 60 ABSI/SIs without calling open competition.
4. Again about 80 ASIs and UDA/LDA/ Typist/ Computer operators have been appointed excess.
5. The DGP has withdrawn the appointing authority from SPs/ Commandants, but the PHQ is going on appointing the constables against the Units.
6. The Government of Nagaland has banned the appointment of Non-locals for Grade - III and IV except, sweeper, barber, cobber etc., but we are surprised to see that there are around 250 non-locals mostly Keralaites and Nepelase who were appointed in 9th, 10th and 11th IRB units. It may be mentioned that, those appointments were made by VVIPs/ PHQ after taking a bribe of Rs. 50,000/- to 70,000/- per candidate.
7. The scale of pay for ABSIs/ASIs and UDAs in the PHQ is Rs. 4500/- basic. Such post should be conducted by the NPSC like other Departments, where as the DGP is appointing those post without making advertisement. As per the policy of Government, such post should be requisitioned through NPSC so that educated youths can compete without favourism and corruption.
8. In the last few years many non-locals were appointed by the PHQ against the units and made them attached at PHQ. Those non-locals are untrained. As per the rule the basic training is mandatory for uniform service. Surprisingly, all those untrained were promoted to different ranks under out of turn promotion policy where as the local deserving candidates who have already undergone basic training and other central promotion test are hopelessly waiting for their seniority and vacancies. The out of turn promotion policy should be scraped at once because the senior officers in PHQ are minting money at the cost of locals. This naked exploitation has demoralized the force and a time will come when the Government will face the consequences.
9. The NPRIS (Nagaland Police Risk Insurance Scheme) which is a contribution of all the personnel in the Department are being misused by the senior officers in the Department. Crores of rupees has misused and no audit for the last many years. The poor jawans are not aware of what is going on in the Police Department.
10. Many retired Officers / Staffs are still misusing the manpower like orderlies for their personal works and as a result of which, many Police officers (Class-I gazeetted) are being deprived of getting their due entitlement and privileges.
11. Many retired officers / staff and personnel are being given extention after extention / re-employed as Consultant in the department. The NSF and other NGOs are blind about what is going on? Because they are also getting their shares.
12. PHQ with the directive of hon'ble Chief Minister and hon'ble Home Minister has already appointed 50% of the post of ABSIs/ASIs/Havildars/Naiks/Constable drivers for 12 IRB. The numbers of vacancies is not mentioned in the PHQ advertisement, recently published.
13. In the year 2004-05 the DGP office has drawn Rs.83 lakhs for repairing of 47 Police stations in Nagaland in A/C bills only. However, not a single Police stations has been repaired and where the money has gone? Only God knows.
14. Every year crores of rupees are drawn under telephone and Power bills centrally by PHQ. But sad to mentioned that the payment is not made and crores of rupees of liabilities are mounting against the department since 2000. The telephone and power bills are Government revenue but the finance department is keeping silent for the non-payment. Where the money has gone? Only God knows.
15. Crores of rupees are being sanctioned under Police modernization. But all those are being misused by the Minister / Home department and PHQ.
16. Crores of rupees are spent under Police vehicles / repairing / fuel etc. More than 50% of the expenditures are made against PHQ vehicles were as, the Units officers are running within the ceiling limit of Rs.2500/- only per month. The corruptions against the guardian of the Law enforcing agency cannot be proved or investigated by the State agency. Only the central agency like CBI can unearth the untold story of the Police department. God bless our people! God help our people! And save us from these dark days for the future generation.
Nukum Walling, Joseph Sumi, Neingullie, Isak Sangtem, Nchum Lotha. (On behalf of educated unemployed youth of Nagaland)
In support of NBSE affiliation- Magaland Post Opinion
Years of social and political struggle, endless rallying, dem-onstrations, seminars, consultations and Nagaland State Assembly resolutions, and just when we thought we were nearing the coast of the Naga Integration (which I believe almost every Naga had at least vocally endorsed), dark clouds of fear, mistrust and doubt seem to emerge from some sections. This is normal. The two Germanys, too, once trod that cobbled path.
In the first place, why the Integration? In order to weaken and subjugate the once proud, independent and powerful Nagas, they were divided under different administrative units. This was much against the will of the Nagas. Ethically this was wrong, not to mention the impracticality of its socio-political implications. The wrongs must first be undone.
Secondly, many ask, 'why target the education system?' Students are the future pillars of the Nation, so we say. Most of the young Nagas, especially those outside the Nagaland state do not have the privilege of coming to know the Naga history, her rich culture, heritage, faith, etc. Under one education system we can achieve oneness of mind, heart and vision, and this will eventually bring unity and strength. The word 'target' hence is a misnomer, Isn't it rather a 'privilege'?
Thirdly, will it adversely affect the education system in the present Nagaland state? Yes, it will, but definitely not adversely. Instead, it will enhance the quality of education. You know what I mean - the more the competitors, the more the efforts put in: the end result - quality output. The brotherly treatment given by the Nagaland State Government (Ruling as well as Opposition), the NBSE, the All Nagaland Private Schools Association, Naga Hoho, NSF and its Tribe Units, NMA, NPMHR, other concerned NGOs and Civil Societies of the Nagaland state in the affiliation process will never be forgotten. Fourthly, any danger of rise in unemployment in the state of Nagaland? Like it or not, unemployment is a malady inherent in every nation, for even a highly developed country like the USA which ironically is not as heavily populated as India, is not exempt. There are 95,000 state government employees in Manipur. 29,450 posts are reserved for the tribals out of which 6,300 are Naga employees (other tribals account for 7,950 posts).
What are the rest of the Nagas doing then? Recent trends show that more and more Nagas in Manipur are seeking other avenues of employment for sustenance. One reason is that they are beginning to discover their entrepreneurship capabilities. Another is the natural-resource-harnessing enthusiasm that is spreading among the younger generation. Doesn't this augur well for the future Naga nation? Besides, once the Integration is achieved, many jobs held by others in the Naga Hills will fall vacant, and these will have to be filled up by the Nagas themselves.
The road to freedom is not always easy. It demands clear vision, unwavering determination, and, should the need arise, even much sacrifice. Should the Nagas then just continue to bask in past glory, soak in the fleeting pleasures of the present, and, forfeiting the bright future of tomorrow, be content to remain under subjugation?
N. Kamei, Tahamzam
Repealing of AFSPA from Manipur By Waikhom Damodar Singh Contd from previous issue The Sangai Express
Under section 4(c)(d) to arrest her for a suspected ‘cognizable criminal offence’ but as required strictly under the mandatory provisions under section 5 of the Act they should have handed her over to the nearest Police station with least possible delay and necessary further police investigations to be taken thereafter - they did not do that, instead they carried her to isolated places under the plea of her leading to the discovery of hide-outs of the insurgents - this they should have safely done accompanied by two or three civil police personnel particularly women police constables, and it was in that quite suitably isolated situation that, perhaps, she had been helplessly molested and even raped and shot dead as strongly suspected as indicated from the visible circumstances and from physical and scientific physical evidences found in the “inquest” done by the police on the spot at the first point of time where she was found lying dead (the cause of her death also appeared to the police to be killing after the crime of rape had been carried out) - even her interrogation could not be carried out by the column of the Assam Rifles alone but only to have been carried out, by the “joint interrogation cell” that have been legally set up and located then in the premises of the Kangla fort consisting of all concerned, on her production before the cell by the police station concerned under the custody of whom she ought to have been kept under arrest in connection with the alleged criminal case registered against her under an FIR (first information report).
Really speaking, the AFSPA itself is not that “draconian” in its very spirits of operation but it is the Armed personnel of the Army columns, quite unknowingly or intentionally, who acted themselves as the “DRACO”, the Athenian statesman and ruler after whom (in 621 BC) the rigorous law of punishing with death even for a trivial offence came into existence among the Athenians. The Assam Rifles columns had acted really very high handedly and in “amok” against the innocent and helpless civilian people with a “couldn't care attitude for the local people” and with no effective “command and control” exercised by their higher ups who should actually be held responsible for such uncalled for highly criminal miss-deeds of their subordinates - such wild and not properly controlled actions perpetrated time and again by the lower ranks do certainly reflect very bad impressions and image on the performance of the higher-ups to the eye of the general public thereby losing their “good faith” on the entire force.
It is indeed a very sad thing to find that the Army columns in Manipur, in the valley area in particular unlike what they were once some 2/3 decades before have time and again added “fuel to the burning fire” instead of assisting the local administration to lessen their headache in maintaining “peace in the state” for the very purpose of which they are deployed “in aid of civil power” heavily draining on the exchequer of the Government.
The greatest headache on the statement Government now is “facing” the situation that has latestly and most unwantedly developed after the people came to know of the recommendation of the justice BP Jeevan Reddy Committee for repealing of the AFSPA which, if not done soon, the life of Irom Chanu Sharmilla who had been under a marathon fasting unto death campaign for the last almost 6 years breaking all the existing records in that regard of the world, even that of Gandhiji, the father of the Indian Nation, and the champion and originator of “satyagraha in the form of fasting unto death” is very much at high stake of coming to the end of her virgin life for the sake of the “repealing of the AFSPA” and who has now shifted.... her venue of unprecedented “self-immolation campaign” for the cause of her countrymen, particularly of the people of the north-east from Imphal to Delhi thereby the most serious and delicate matter being exposed more openly and wisely to the eyes and years of the people of the whole world.
The mighty British under the Premiership of Winston Churchill succumbed helplessly to the pressure of the fasting unto death campaign of Gandhiji carried out in the year 1945 for the fully determined demand of independence of India as they feared of developing a world wide highly “condemnable” issue if Gandhiji happened to end his life. Therefore, both the State Government and the Central Government stand today on a cross-road of great “dilemma” as to what exactly has to be done now in this regard, whether to repeal the Act as has been strongly recommended to do so by the Jeevan Reddy committee, or just close their eyes and lead a complete deaf ear and allow or cause Sharmilla, come what may, to end her precious life, which if allowed to happen at all will certainly bring most disastrous results - the entire valley area of the state to be in another unprecedented greatest “turmoil” and in most “vigorously burning situation” sponsored by the thousands of highly aggrieved and irritated female groups, the dauntless Meira Paibis.
The headache of the State Government has become more acute now as the entire burden of the issue has been put on them by the Centre saying that it is they who should take the initiative of solving the issue i.e. it is upto them to take the first the action or step of withdrawal of the declaration of their state as the disturbed area after which the operation of the AFSPA in the state will automatically remain suspended and if the State Government could manage by itself in maintaining the law and order by itself by its largely available state armed police forces and the central reserve police force at their disposal then the actions of repealing the AFSPA to follow in full swing.
It is, by now a very clear fact known to every “Tom, Dick and Harry” that Sharmila’s fully determined “self-immolation campaign” by the process of her fasting unto death cannot be prevented at all unless and until the AFSPA is repealed from its operation at least in Manipur, particularly in the valley area, and therefore it is expected by all that the State Government do not further delay in issuing the necessary orders for the withdrawal of the same at least from the entire valley area of the state, of course, taking a high risk in the matters of suppressing the insurgency and terrorism activities of the valley-based insurgents and terrorists who may step up their unlawful activities taking the advantage of Army being out of their role of fighting against them. In this regard, it has been very rightly pointed out that the law has been in force in the state since its inception in 1958 but the number of insurgent outfits has multiplied even though the number of security forces, both the local armed police forces including the CRPF and of the units of the Army and their para-military forces have colossally been increased, defeating its very purpose to control militancy and violence i.e. the role of the Army in the isolated “hit and run” activities of the revolutionaries and the terrorists did not make much difference in so far the situation of the valley is concerned except that more “knotty problems had been created by their excessive actions perpetrated on the innocent civilians as have been highlighted above.
While the Army and its para-military Forces may continue to look after the hill areas, where actually the situation is comparatively quite calm by now, the local armed forces, the Manipur Rifles Battalions, the India Reserve Battalions, the CRPF etc should be able to take care of the situation in the valley area as they are presently doing quite actively and satisfactorily in producing their results as a part of their statutory duties of maintaining peace in the state, who may be made to be more active by streamline their organisations and by revitalising and reactivating them by giving intensive anti-insurgency training and refresher courses etc - after all the Manipur Rifles Bns had been equipped with much better arms and other equipment at par with BSF Bns, unlike any of the state armed police Bn in the country, such as of the heavy weapons of 3 inch mortars, Medium Machine guns (vicker) etc. which are heavy weapons of much longer and more effective fire-arms not issued even to the units of the Assam Rifles and the CRPF units as the Central Government of India wanted the Manipur Rifles Bns to be fully capable of fighting insurgency in the state of their own - only what may be lacking now is to reactivate them by giving the necessary intensive training and other courses for which the require facilities and the infrastructures, particularly, for imparting “guerilla-fighting training in the jungle and hilly terrain” are readily available at their than training centre and in its surrounding hilly areas at Pangei, and of course most importantly, to motivate them to be really “duty-oriented force” by tightening up the “command and control” of the senior commanders so that there may not be any “suspicion” or “disbelief” on them being of a “useless lot” and sympathisers of the local revolutionaries - against whom they should be rather effective as per proverbs - “kant keno kanta beirtako - “ a thorn is extracted out only by another thorn” and “Lohe lohe se ka taft - “Iron cuts iron”.
There are nearly 20 Bns of the Manipur Rifles Bns, the IRS Bns and the CRPF Bns in addition to the very good number of armed civil police and Home guards for the maintenance of law and order in Manipur - the gigantic strength of armed force so available is the strength of some 6 Army Brigades and 2 Divisions, as one Army Brigade consists of 3 armed Battalions and a Division of 9 Battalions, and therefore, as has been said earlier, they (the local armed police forces) should be capable of handling the situation, at least of the valley area, by properly organising and utilising them, otherwise one cannot but wonder as to the “real utility” of having such a big strength of local police armed force which have so rapidly been multiplied from what it was minimally earlier with quite handsome pay and other perks and facilities, and also a good amount of pension and its allowances and benefits to be enjoyed even after their retirement from active and sacrificed service as the “life time rewards fer the same” from the Government. The attractiveness of their pay and other monetary benefits, particularly of the higher echelons, the SsP, the Commandants and above will further increase soon with the coming of the 6th Pay Commission report. Even with all such very good amenities, facilities and other protections available unlike of the previous times, if they still fail to produce the desired results of their “statutory” duties then one is bound to highly 'speculate' as to the real 'utility' of their very existence draining so heavily on the State's exchequer i.e their very existence becomes really 'meaningless' and not fully 'justified'. — Concluded
China calls for mutual compromise on border issue The Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, Nov 15 – As India prepares to receive President Hu Jintao next week, China today said the two countries must make ‘mutual compromises’ on ‘disputed’ issue of Arunachal Pradesh and that it was ready to do so, reports PTI. The two countries, through ‘friendly consultations’, can arrive at a “mutually-acceptable and mutually-satisfactory” solution to the issue ‘left over from history’, Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Yuxi told PTI in an interview here. Insisting that Arunachal is a ‘disputed area’, Sun said there need to be discussions on it.

“We must make mutual compromises (on Arunachal). We are ready to make compromises on that,” he said, just five days ahead of Hu’s maiden four-day visit here. Beijing claims that entire Arunachal Pradesh is ‘Chinese territory’. When referred to External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee’s remark yesterday that Arunachal is an integral part of India, the Chinese envoy said, “If you want to know that (about dispute) you can compare the maps of the two countries. There are differences. So that is why we call it disputed area and (that) needs some discussions.”

He said there should be ‘some give and take’ on the issue and that it was for negotiators of the two countries to ascertain where to make compromises. The Chinese envoy said the two countries had agreed not to allow their boundary dispute to affect the development of relations in other areas. During Hu’s visit, China will reaffirm its commitment to that understanding, Sun said.

The boundary question has been discussed since 2003 by Special Representatives of the two countries who have held eight rounds of talks so far. While the Indian side is represented by National Security Adviser M K Narayanan, China is represented by Vice Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo. “The Special Representatives are now working out the famework (of an agreement on the boundary issue),” Sun said, expressing satisfaction at the progress made by them. The two sides had signed the “Political Parameters and Guiding Principles” Agreement during Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao’s visit here in May last year, under which they agreed to settle their pending disputes through talks. Sun said despite the pending boundary dispute, overall relations between the world’s two biggest developing countries have been witnessing rapid growth. During the President’s visit, Sun said, the two countries will set up a mechanism for frequent high-level exchanges. They will also sign at least 12 pacts including a Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement (BIPA) and one on establishing a regional free trade arrangement.

Humanitarian laws violated during Bhutan operation’ From Sobhapati Samom Assam Tribune
IMPHAL, Nov 15 – Speaking at the two-day International seminar-cum-workshop on media in conflict situation and International humanitarian laws in Manipur, former ULFA publicity secretary said International humanitarian laws were not observed during ‘all clear operation’ by Bhutanese Army against the ULFA. On the concluding of the seminar-cum workshop on Friday last, the session discussed on armed conflict, media and mandate of International Committee of the Red Cross(ICRC).
While sharing his thoughts on the relevance of humanitarian laws in the conflict in North East, the Asom delegate, Sunil Nath, previously known as Siddartha Phukan who was till 1992 the publicity secretary of ULFA, said even the white flag was not respected during the operation.

Further, the former rebel, who was in the ULFA for eight long years, said Indian Constitution as it is today doesn’t respect freedom of speech and the right guaranteed under it is only conditional.

He wondered how the people of Manipur are going to face the consequences once the issue of taking referendum comes into existence in Manipur context as the migrants have started to outnumber the tribal population as per the recent Census report. The concluding session saw an interactive session on the mandated of ICRC and the relevance of International humanitarian laws for reducing civilian casualties and respecting human dignity while operating in an armed conflict. Journalist from Asom, Tripura and Nagaland attended the seminar organized jointly by All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union and ICRC, New Delhi.

Arunachal leader criticises Chinese envoy’s comments Assam tribune
ITANAGAR, Nov 15 – A senior Congress leader of Arunachal Pradesh today described the Chinese envoy’s claim that Arunachal Pradesh is “Chinese territory” as “not only deplorable but also not in good taste”. In a letter to External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee, the lone Rajya Sabha member from the State, Nabam Rebia, requested him to take up the matter with the Chinese authorities and advise them to refrain from making such provocative statements.

“The Government of India must convey to the Chinese Government in unambiguous terms that Arunachal Pradesh has been, is and would be an integral part of the Republic of India,” he said.
Rebia, in his letter, also said it was “extremely unfortunate” that the Chinese envoy made such a statement about Arunachal just a few days ahead of the visit of the Chinese President Hu Jintao to India. – PTI

Report gives gloomy environment picture The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Nov 15: The daily generation of harmful bio-medical waste from the hospitals in and around Imphal range from 322-547kg/day. The solid waste from all sources in greater Imphal area alone account for 8200 metric tonnes per day. Prof N Mohendro, resource coordinator, while presenting the brief report of State of Environment Report � Manipur, made the above observation at Hotel Imphal today during the final workshop to bring out report, a study based on reports and data up to 2004.

Observing that the rise of marginal workers has direct harsh impact on the environment, Prof Mohendro said that the number of marginal workers increased from 66,621 in 1991 to 2,85,849 in 2001. This dramatic and unexpected rise of 669% came to play an important role in environmental degradation. These workers work for only 183 days in a year and are involved in land-based works thus leading to exhaustion of land, forest, river, etc.

Another parameter in preparing the report is agriculture. In Manipur, as pointed out by Prof Mohendro, only 6.65% are available for agricultural activities out of the total geographical area. This result in increasing pressure on the land rendering the man-land ratio at 1:0.24 hectares, thus each person gets hardly half hectare. So the cultivators resort to intensive agriculture with aggressive use of fertilizers. According to a report of 2001-02, Manipur stood in the 4th position among the state using highest amount of fertilizers in India at the rate of 126kg/hectare. In 2003-04 Manipur ranked 8th position in all India scale of production as compared to the earlier position of 3rd and 4th. Prof Mohendra further said that the experts who helped compile the report took water samples from 22 river points, 17 water bodies from different parts of Manipur, 7 lakes and 4 major water bodies from Imphal. After thorough study, they reported serious problem of dilution factors with some of the water not fit for human consumption. He said that only 37% of the total households of Manipur have the advantage of potable water in 2004-05. With the vehicle population increasing day by day, Prof Mohendro asserted that air pollution is going to be a health hazard soon in the state. He said that apart from the threat to the plants, the commonly seen crows and parrots are becoming rare sight in Manipur.

In his speech on the report, Saichhuana, additional chief secretary, forest and environment, government of Manipur, said, "I hope this report will drastically changed the outlook of our planners and help them take actions as per our existing physical situation." He also expressed faith over the fact that the report will serve as a guidance and spirit to result oriented planning which will bring quality. This report will be formally released later after the final addition and omission are carried out by those concerned. The environment and ecology wing is the nodal department responsible for bringing out this exhaustive report.

Angels of Death Nagarealm.com
The mocking realities of any events related to ‘Manipur’ provoke a sense of ironic amusement that raise the question on how lengthy we can go in this manner. The undeniable truth of what remains of Manipur is that it has turned into an amusement park for everybody. The status quo in Manipur today is that which way you look, death stares at you with no room for escape. And that is the Angel of Death, borne out from Manipur’s very own womb.

For all its worthy potentials, Manipur has outrageously turned itself into a complete incompetent fool right from the head of the government—a laughing stock for anybody who knows a bit of Manipur intrinsic resolved and unresolved issues of which there are tons. Do you ever find yourself amused by that fact on how such a weakling could ever get to become our guardian? The top guy is a puppet of and for anybody. Well, that may be the reason of his existence.

For decades, being what we really are—treacherous lots—we sold out our genuine issues for petty crooked dealings to suck the blood of the land, its people and resources, our so-claimed pride and glory. We continue to live in a fool’s paradise with our big yellow thirty-twos occupying the full length and breadth of our worn-out faces with false glorification.

Today, taking a look at the precious ‘Manipur’, one could see the extent we have digress for none of its worth. We have done a grievous punishable offence to it and stupidly pretend not to take notice of our deeds. True sons of the soil we call ourselves. The truth is—we are but true unworthy and retarded traitors—scums of the soil! I guess, if Manipur were a living woman being, it would cry for days and nights, for breeding such sons and daughters. It would cry in shame and regrets. Talk of revolution in whatever ideologies, talk of human rights in whichever form of violations, talk of the voices of the people in whatever lingo, talk of anything and face the truth of truths of what, how and why Manipur failed to heal from its dreadful disease. We can only shed tears and cry in pain inconsolably, at our own chopped-off arms.

Do you know why? Do you know the reason? Do you know the root of the disease? Who do you think it is? It’s you and me and the society and the people. We failed in our responsibilities to shoulder the responsibility that is entrusted unto us. Manipur will never heal and breathe clean air unless we identify that and blame our very mistakes to hold ourselves responsible for the pitiable situation we dutifully made out of Manipur.

Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) This act, even by its name, says it all. The name itself signifies something that is extra-ordinarily entrusted with extra-ordinary power. As we all know by now, with its many antagonists and propagandas, it is that power entrusted upon the ‘state’ armed forces to enforce human rights abuses legally against those who are not inside the boundary of its enforcement. This is one such act that legally destabilise the core of a country, and as such should be reviewed and abolished in the larger interest of the common people who faced the brunt of its unique power. At the same time as we opposed such a draconian law of the ‘state’ forces, we need to comprehend, acknowledge and also voice our concern on the impending powers that the ‘non-state’ actors—supposedly revolutionary groups—have control of our lives. It is true; in a way that the AFSPA is a total failure as far as fighting the revolutionary groups is concerned. It failed to check the atrocities of the supposedly revolutionary groups’ acts of terror against the common people. The act failed to protect the civilians. The protection that it supposed to provide is itself an issue that is also worth focusing. Is it really an act that protects the civilians? Rather than that, it unprotects them instead. If that is so, the viability of the Act is questionable. Was it or was not it, is also the simple question that can be posed to this Act. It also failed in its implementation as a tool for a solution to fight armed rebel groups. It failed miserably and thereby it became an ‘act’ for terror itself.

It seems the AFSPA issue is also being distracted for those supposedly armed revolutionaries to smile in earnest as it ought to touch the issue of their secession movements. This issue that the general masses should involved themselves first of all is not on when it was passed and put into force. The issue should be in those words and clauses that the Act put together to entrust an overwhelming power to those of its enforcers. Innocent civilians suffer, and will continue to suffer in the hands of both the ‘official’ and ‘unofficial’ armed groups. If that is so, will the repealing of the AFSPA help in reducing the sufferings of the people? It will not.

Unless, the supposedly revolutionary groups repeal their own ‘AFSPA’, the people will continue to face the wrath. It is inescapable. How far will these ‘unofficial’ groups compromise on their increasing impending power, if at all, the AFSPA, is repealed? Will the people become the ultimate power holder? Will not these revolutionaries become the de facto power who can dictate not only our lives but also our social, but also our culture, language, etc? We have faced it. I guess we are not that blind, and we have seen their gun-welding powers. Today we acknowledged their power by the silent culture we profusely obey without blinking an eye. Do we simply ignore that fact and give them more sayings in our lives?

These supposedly armed revolutionary groups dictate the whole of our live today because we give them their chances by our weakness. They decide how we dress, what we read, what we speak and what not to speak, who we elect as our representatives, how much we ‘contribute’ for their ‘revolutionary’ causes, what and what not we can eat, and the list goes on. We are learned on the ‘state’ atrocities against the people. Do we have the courage to be the same learned ones and recognize the atrocities of these ‘non-state’ groups who destroy the fabric of our society and people by the power the hold and dictates upon us? Is it not that we are opting to be mute spectators to such a draconian rule?
My perceptive here is that if we dare not question the inhumane actions of these supposedly revolutionary groups now, we will never succeed in our struggle to repeal the AFSPA. It is an impossible and unsustainable venture. The struggle against AFSPA would never succeed if, at one hand, we endorse the atrocities of the ‘non-state’ groups and shout our lungs out against the ‘state’ actors while we keep mum on the others’ act of terror upon our lives. This, itself, is questionable and unacceptable. We will only become the Angels of our own Death.

The killings and torturing of innocent people, raping and molesting of women, planting of IEDs and landmines in public, village and forest frequented by villagers, looting of property, demand notes, stern warning notes, what-to and what-not-to notes, summon notes, etc., will not stop with the repealing of the AFSPA either. This unwritten act of the revolutionaries is unquestionable. Their law is final and there can never be any proceedings, legal or otherwise, against them and their acts. There is no ground for such. Raising a voice or finger against their indisputable actions would mean punishment and death. And as always, caught between the crossfire of both the state as well as non-state armed groups, innocent people like you and me continue to be psychologically and physically threatened, abused and tortured.

The double-standard approach by those who are against AFPSA is questionable. Why go against just one, and not both? Why the silence over the same atrocities perpetuated by ‘non-state’ actors? It is understandable if this entire struggle against the draconian law—AFPSA—is all about empowering the revolutionary groups. If that is the goal that we already set, then so be it. Let us win. And then prepare ourselves for the next stage of the impossible. And it is an open secret that civil society organisations in Manipur are aligned with one or the other such revolutionary groups, one way or the other. Does those aligned questioned the revolutionary groups when the question of human rights abuse committed by the armed non-state actors arises? If that already silenced question fails to be awakened, it’s a doom for all.

Save Sharmila Propaganda Irom Chanu Sharmila, who by her sheer power and conviction, has been fasting for six years continuously is really a woman of substance. She is one unique human being, who steadfastly holds the dignity of Manipur by her act to fast unto death unless and until the AFPSA is repealed. One can only be amazed by her as one tries to be in her shoes. I often asked myself, how a person could carry on for so long!? And I would conclude—she is one hell of a human! I know I will not be able to stand even for a day, forced or unforced.

And then there are those ‘by’ her sides who do not understand ‘her’ act. Who care not to understand the simple reasons why she is doing what she is doing. These ignorant and arrogant people call and put her deeds as her ‘own’—terming it as a Fight of Sharmila against India’s AFPSA. Yet again, we find ourselves as detractors of the main issue. We tend to because we do not understand and because we are some confused cowards and traitors. We give it the name—Save Sharmila Propaganda. What would she say to that? Would she really want her life to be saved? Has anybody ever asked her? As a human being, of course, like you and me, she would want to live her life in peace and serenity, undisturbed by draconian laws such as the AFSPA. But would she prefer to term the propaganda against the AFSPA, merely as ‘her’ personal struggle? As I asked that myself, I realize she would never want it to be that that to be. Under that circumstance, the move is a disgrace to her fight against the AFPSA.

This is not her personal fight. Why is it that those ‘besides’ her put it that way? It’s demeaning, and a dirty politics of none other than those who wanted to be recognised in her own struggle—to give themselves names to be recognised with by deliberately taking advantage of Sharmila. They are hijackers of genuine issues for personal issues. What shameless filthy lots. They are the silent Angels of Death to the cause and struggle against AFPSA. It is an insult to her and the protest against AFSPA. The propaganda should never have become Save Sharmila propaganda. It is not about saving Sharmila’s life. It is about saving the life of Manipur. Is it that we are concerned only for the life of Sharmila and not of Manipur and its people? This is injustice to the cause of Sharmila and her self-struggle and for all those who are living the life of zombies in Manipur.

Conclusion The need of Manipur today, not only on the AFSPA issue, is a new form of a collective social reconstruction that challenges to defy and condemn both the atrocities of the state and non-state actors. Unless that is brought about, we indeed do have a bleak future to look forward to—a total disorder of state as well as social mechanism, which will ultimately lead to the breaking apart of ‘Manipur’. The silence of men give rises to evil. When evil ascent to the throne… [Elf Hmar]
Corruption breeds as Government ignores rules
Unkept promise By a Staff Reporter Sentinel
GUWAHATI, Nov 15: Making the State administration corruption-free is a promise which Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has been making from time to time at various fora, but the gap between promise and action taken in this regard continues to widen as the State administration, for reasons best known to it, looks the other way when corrupt practices go on under its very nose.
According to standing service rules, if a government official wants to buy any goods worth over Rs 10,000, he/she can do so only after informing the Government of the source of the money and that he/she has no official transaction with the business organization from where the goods will be bought. In Asom, this standing norm is only of academic nature only as it is being violated in a rampant manner. There are even many third-grade or fourth-grade employees who possess cars and motorcycles which have been bought without informing the Government which often looks the other way when such violations of rules take place. Another norm meant for checking corruption is that each and every government official has to disclose his/her assets before the Government annually. Can the Government say that it has been receiving annual asset disclosure reports from all of its employees annually? Certainly not. The only norm that is followed in toto is the disclosure of his/her assets by a government employee at the time of joining his/her job. The purpose of this asset disclosure at the time of joining the service is also not being served because, in many a case, the asset disclosed before joining the job and that has been amassed in course of the service are hardly compared. Can the Government say as to how many recommendations of the State Chief Vigilance Commission on purchase and allotment of contracts meant for checking corruption have been implemented by it? In order to check corruption, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi formed the State Chief Vigilance Commission in his last term as the Chief Minister, but a number of anti-corruption recommendations issued by the Commission have not been implemented by the Government, thereby giving the corrupt officials a free run. The State Government took over six months to express its view on the Centre’s move to merge the State Vigilance Commission with the Central Vigilance Commission, and this chapter alone is strong enough to expose the State Government’s ‘determination’ to put an end to corruption. It is still fresh in the mind of the people of the State that Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who also holds the Finance portfolio, had announced in his Budget speech in July this year that he was contemplating on implementing the Benami Transaction Act, 1988 in Asom to check benami transactions, in the guise of which many bureaucrats and politicians manipulate their fat assets. Five months have elapsed, but the State Government has not even initiated any action towards that end, leave alone framing the related rules. “To make the State administration corruption-free, I am considering the implementation of the Benami Transaction Act, 1988,” Gogoi said in his last annual Budget speech in the State Assembly.
What is even more surprising is that the Vigilance and Anti-corruption Directorate, Chief Minister’s Vigilance Cell etc, in the State only register cases, investigate them at the expense of the State exchequer, but action is a far cry. Such anti-corruption agencies have to wait for months and years together for approval to file charge sheets against accused officials after investigation.
Manpower shortage hitsNagaland police: DGP
‘Centre’s ceasefire with ultras creating problems for police’ Sentinel
Kohima, Nov 15: A top Nagaland police official today said that the ongoing ceasefire between the Centre and NSCN groups prevented government forces in reining warring underground activists, who in recent times vitiated peaceful atmosphere as they became engaged in armed clashes in various parts of the state. Director General of Police (DGP) J Changkija said police forces faced a difficult situation in containing factional violence due to the truce the underground groups signed with the Centre. However despite incidents of factional fighting, relative peace was prevailing in the state though the police force was grappling with shortage of manpower, he said while inaugurating a recreational centre at the police headquarters here.
He called upon police officials to judiciously utilise funds released under centrally sponsored scheme for police modernisation project in the state and cautioned that the central grant might not continue for a long time. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has appealed to tribal Hohos (councils) to promote understanding and reconciliation among different groups of people to achieve their political goal and ensure all-round development of the Nagas. Speaking at the traditional tribal festival Ahuna at Dimapur yesterday, the Chief Minister emphasized on fostering the spirit of forgive and forget among the people. (PTI)


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