02/06/2007: "On campaign trail, Sonia woos Manipur"

On campaign trail, Sonia woos Manipur ibnlive.com

NORTH EAST MONITOR: Sonia\'s statement comes in the wake of prolonged controversy.
New Delhi: UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said on Monday that Congress will not allow the territorial integrity of Manipur to be altered.Sonia - who arrived in Manipur to campaign for her party for the first phase of polls on February 8 - was addressing a public rally in Thoubal district of Manipur.Her statement comes in the wake of prolonged controversy over the territorial integrity of Manipur, a part of which is claimed by the NCN (IM) as greater Nagaland.
The issue is sensitive to both Nagaland and Manipur and the region has seen repeated violence of the prospective division of Manipur on the basis of Naga and non-Naga inhabited areas of the state. Soon after her arrival at Tulihal airport by a special flight, Gandhi flew to interior Thoubal district where she will address a public meeting.
Party sources said Sonia will also address a public meeting before flying back to New Delhi.
Despairing Thoughts Source: IMPHAL FREE PRESS

If Rene Descartes belonged to Manipur of today, the statement he made illustrating succinctly the idealistic position of the primacy of mind over matter, and arguably the most profound attempt at establishing the centrality of man in the universal scheme of things, might have probably run something like: “I Think Therefore I am Depressed”. For the uninitiated, of which we are certain there are only very few if at all, the original statement goes: “I Think Therefore I Am”. But jesting juggling of the great philosopher’s words apart, the reality in Manipur is indeed grim. Everything positive there is about the state, of which there undoubtedly is a profusion, has become eclipsed under dark, divisive and destructive forces. The more you think about the prospect of the next few generations and even beyond, the overwhelming sense you are left with is closer to despair than hope. The proverbial light at the end of the tunnel is still too remote to be seen, or even imagine. Look any direction and the stories of gloom overshadow those of sunshine. Consider the most immediate case of the school students in four Naga majority hill districts. As part of a certain political game-plan, they were made to reject the school syllabus of the state they live in and adopt that of neighbouring Nagaland. And now, after having been re-oriented to a new education curriculum, it seems they are destined to be left in the lurch with another powerful lobby opposing the larger politics that made them look away from their state of origin. The legitimacy of the two opposing brands of coercive politics is one thing, but what we have are innocent casualties caught in a bitter crossfire. And the tragedy is, once set into motion, any move acquires a momentum not easy to reverse, and in all likelihood, many more generations of young students will continue to be caught in the same political crossfire.
Look at also the other pictures of the state’s future. Violence, underdevelopment, corruption, unemployment, widening ethnic divides, sinking public morale, etc, are becoming endemic and there seems no way out. Even the system cleansing mechanism of democracy – elections – are no longer a solution. None of the known and publicly acknowledged banes of the society, corruption to name just one, have ever been the clinching issue of elections in the state, and many with doubtful origins of their personal wealth, continue to buy their way to the seats of power. In fact, there have hardly ever been any election where the voters came out to give their verdict for a change. Instead elections have been more of a programmed behaviour, little connected or determined by any of the deepest concerns of the society. Franchise right has long ceased to be exercised with any faith in the establishment, or conviction in its ability to affect changes for the better. For this cynicism at least, we cannot help blame the farcical, gutless brand of politics that have dominated the state’s legislative history.
Consider also the fact that the real issues on the streets are seldom reflected in our elections – a fact enough to confound any social scientist. The apparent lack of faith in the established order so well articulated in so many violent protests and uprisings, and the faith seemingly expressed in the same established order by huge electorate turnout at every election for instance is a story not easy to collate into the same script meaningfully. Manipur today is a state which can in an explosion of spontaneous passion burn down the Legislative Assembly, but it is also a state in which no boycotts of Legislative Assembly elections have worked. So between those who would have the world believe there is a fundamental dislike for the Indian establishment and those who believe the state and its people are wedded body and soul to it, where possibly can be the truth? Or is the story about a social schizophrenia, induced by contrary and coercive pulls of loyalty, and one which our political and intellectual leaders have not been either brave or resourceful enough to face and resolve? Indeed, anybody who cares to think deep enough on the affairs of the state and its possible future would most likely end up depressed. This is no advocacy for people to abandon thinking on these issues though, but to be brave and honest in their thinking.

India : North East Trade Expo 2007- art & craft extravaganza

The fourth North East Trade Expo 2007 revealed the vibrant art and craft of Indian region covering beautiful cane furniture to gorgeous silk saris in the expo held from Jan 27 to Feb 4. The expo 2007 was held in three exhibition halls where states of Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Sikkim displayed their artifacts.

The exhibition had cane handicrafts displaying suitcases, handbags, jewellery boxes, cushions, mats, tables, lamps, the typical brown muga silk saris of Assam, Mekhla Chadors (saris) in muga and eri, the two types of Assam silk were showcased. Bright red and black coloured jackets from Nagaland, Angora shawls of rabbit wool from Sikkim and black stone pottery of Manipur were the other exhibits. With colorful cultural performances and special northeast cuisine to top it, the fourth North East Trade Expo 2007 was a resounding success.

Govt. may repeal controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958: Sonia Gandhi Ani News

Wangejing (Manipur), Feb.5 (ANI): Congress Party president Sonia Gandhi said on Monday that the UPA Government is looking at the possibility of repealing a controversial security law applicable in north eastern India, which critics say has been misused to kill and torture suspects.

She, however, ruled out the possibility of the government altering the territorial integrity of Manipur, but said the administration was open to the idea of talks with insurgents. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA), is intended to help fight more than two-dozen insurgent groups active in the remote area. Human rights activists have demanded its repeal, saying it has been brazenly misused to kill, arrest and torture people on mere suspicion of being insurgents or supporters of the revolts.Several movements have been organised in the past to put pressure on the government to repeal the law. "You all know that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has already been repealed in seven constituencies and you all are also aware that the government is looking seriously into other areas as well," Gandhi said at an election campaign rally for her party's nominees for the forthcoming assembly elections in the state. She also said that the government would not interfere in the territorial integrity of the state.

"With your cooperation we will ensure the territorial integrity is not altered in anyway this has always been our policy and this will continue to be our policy in future as well," she said.

Manipur had witnessed large-scale violence after New Delhi extended its truce with a prominent insurgent group in neighbouring Nagaland state, who are fighting for a separate homeland encompassing all areas where the Nagas live. Manipuris believe the truce with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) will impinge on their state's territorial integrity, as it could be a first step towards carving out of a greater Nagaland state. Referring to the insurgency in the state, Gandhi said the government was open for talks but only when the rebels gave up arms.

"Insurgents and militant groups have made attempts to destroy social harmony in the state and to bring development activity to a halt. But they have not succeeded because the people of Manipur have not supported them. But we all must continue in out efforts to fight insurgency, to fight militant activities. We are committed to a dialogue with all groups but on the condition that these groups give up violence and the culture of the gun," she said.
Her two public meetings took place at the Kadompokpi Ground in Thoubal District and at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal West District. She said that the Congress-led Government in Manipur had withdrawn the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 from the seven Assembly constituencies of the state and the Act may be withdrawn from other partc also. She also expressed happiness over the presence of large numbers of women during the meetings, and added that the women of the state were exhibiting their skill in various fields. The north east is a cauldron of political violence spawned by economic backwardness and tensions between ethnic tribals or groups pitted against other groups, immigrants or India's federal government. (ANI)
Manipur's territorial integrity will be protected, says Sonia Sushanta Talukdar Armed Forces Act will be withdrawn totally when situation improves The Hindu
• Ready for talks if insurgents give up violence
• Ibobi Government has brought stability
Wangjing (Manipur) : Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Monday said her party was committed to protecting the territorial integrity of Manipur at all costs. She said the Congress-led State Government had withdrawn the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in seven Assembly segments in the Imphal municipality and was looking forward to doing so in other parts of the State as the situation improved. Ms. Gandhi was addressing an election rally in this small town in Thoubal disrict,about 25 km from Imphal.She hit the campaign trail in the three States, which are going to the polls this month, the other two being Punjab and Uttarakhand.
Key issues The issues of territorial integrity of Manipur and repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act dominate electioneering with the opposition Manipur People's Party telling the voters that the Congress never opposed the demand for integration of Naga-inhabited areas of the State with Nagaland made by the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) and that the ruling party was also against withdrawal of the Act.
In the valley constituencies, the United Naga Council has obtained the signatures of 60 candidates on a pledge to work for the integration of Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur with Nagaland. Ms. Gandhi said the United Progressive Alliance Government at the Centre was ready for discussions with insurgent groups provided they gave up violence and the gun culture.
"The insurgents made attempts to destroy social harmony. They have not succeeded as the people of Manipur do not support them."
Ms. Gandhi said the Okram Ibobi Singh Government was the first one in Manipur to last a full five-year term, and this stability brought development to the State, and improved law and order and finances. At an Imphal meeting, Ms. Gandhi highlighted the handing over of the Kangla Fort from the custody of Assam Rilfes to the people of Manipur as another achievement of the Congress-led Government. Earlier, thousands of Congress workers, a majority of them women, waved enthusiastically at Ms. Gandhi as she alighted from a chartered helicopter at the Wangjing meeting venue, accompanied by Mr. Ibobi, Union Minister and Congress general secretary in-charge of the northeast Oscar Fernades and PCC president Gaikhangam.
Message of His Excellency, Ino. Isak Chishi Swu- Nagaland Post
I bring greetings to you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I feel elated to be a part of this conference through this humble message. I am confident that the student's community gathered at Vekuho Village for the 43rd General Conference will all be blessed abundantly. The Sumi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu is the apex institution of the Sumis, ever molding and preparing generations of future leaders. I appreciate the present SKK leadership as well as the pioneers who have done much to take the students community forward.
Between a revolutionary and a student, I find great similarity because they share a common struggle, a glorious struggle yet a perilous one. One forced to defend the right of his people with a gun and other himself with a pen. A political blunder, on the part of a revolutionary, can enslave a people or a nation; a wanton friend or a wrong career move, in a moment of confusion, could derail a lifelong ambition of a student. When this happens, justification is a meaningless exercise because by then you have already betrayed yourself and your nation, both in the eyes of God and man. The world cannot wait for those who wait upon luck to bring them Glory. Both struggles demand unconditional commitment and determination. In the final analysis, both a revolutionary and a student merge into the same destiny of a nation or a society as years run its course.
Today, we face enemies both visible and invisible ones but NSCN is firm in its political stand which is driven by facts of history. We understand that the world has grown interdependent in many ways yet we shall never be subjected to political slavery in order to conform to postmodern world. NSCN shall never crumble under any pressure be it from outside or within because we are responsible to the Nagas.
One thing the NSCN can never ignore is the contribution of Sumis in the entire sphere of our national struggle. If we refer to the pages of Naga history, the sacrifice, courage and valor of Sumis past and present is legendary and this, I believe, is the gift of God to Sumis. As we realize the spirit of revolution dwells not in cities or towns, it thrives in hills and smoky villages; in the hearts of common men and women toiling in the fields. This is Nagalim!
I am convinced that true knowledge springs from correct understanding of your history, culture and the society that you live in. Without taking this aspect into consideration you are a lost man with all your acquired knowledge of the world. You are at best an idealist unable to come to terms with reality of life. Sometimes in our mad pursuit for academic excellence we fail to grasp the very foundation of our existence. Avoid this danger while you are a student.
Beloved students, God has sent you down to this earth at a right time and at a perfect place where you call willfully exercise your promise to the world. The future of our nation rests on your shoulders and it is your choice and yours alone, whether to embark on a path to becoming instruments of moral, ethical, spiritual and political regeneration or condemn yourself as insignificant creatures lured away by modem gadgets, fashion, films and make believe possibilities while your society, including your parents, writhe in agony.
I urge you all to rededicate yourself to our God Almighty, the creator of Nagalim and the giver of wisdom and knowledge. Let Naga history praise your generation for your correct decision in a given time and situation. The world may ignore your potential but NSCN awaits you becoming worthy sons and daughters of the soil.
God bless you all. Isak Chishi Swu, Yaruiwo, GPRN, NSCN (IM)

Naga bodies call on NSCN(K) to let students take NBSE exams Newmai News Network

Imphal, Feb 4: Naga frontal organisations have appealed to the NSCN(K) to revoke the threat notice issued against Naga students from Manipur who want to sit for the NBSE examination in Nagaland. The United Naga Council (UNC), the Naga People`s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM) and Naga Women`s Union, Manipur (NWUM) have made a joint appeal to the NSCN(K) in this regard.

The NPMHR (Nagaland sector) while issuing a statement to Newmai News Network last night through its convenor Lanu Sashi Longkumer and general secretary of the NPMHR (secretariat) Nepuni Piku said that the "demands for affiliation of students from the Naga hills of Manipur is an expression of the will of the people who continue to be oppressed through the systematic process of brainwashing of upholding the dominant culture and way of life while deriding the age old unique cultural and historical rights of the Nagas."

"Throughout history it is the dominant that often create and write history to perpetuate the dominance of the frontier communities under their so called sphere of influence. Language has been one chief medium through which the dominant system tries to exclude the other communities in the name of homogenization and dominance. The dominant community through the systematic coercion and connivance of the state administration has been trying to impose the Meitei Mayek (script) since decades which rightfully continues to be resisted by the hill people in general and the Nagas in particular," added the statement.

The Naga rights body further said that it will be the people and not imposed structures that will decide the future of the people. "NPMHR appreciates and extends our critical solidarity to the peaceful assertion and critical demonstration of the students` community through the banner of Naga Students Federation (NSF) which is a just struggle for dignity," added the statement.

NPMHR also expressed its gratitude to the role of the Nagaland state government "for positively affirming and upholding the right of choice for the students` community in the Naga hills of Manipur to gain affiliation with the Nagaland Board of Secondary Education (NBSE)."

The Naga rights body further added that the NPMHR is for unification of Naga homeland wherever Nagas are contiguously placed and demands removal of all artificial boundaries that is in the way of Nagas fully exercising their rights to self-determination. It then cautions that any impediment cause towards this effort of creating a common vision is a negation in our united search for unity in purpose towards achieving our aspiration as a people. "NPMHR considers the threat notice issued by certain national groups as deviation from our common goal and appeal for immediate revocation of threats which creates an abnormal situation for all especially the young minds preparing to take the important exams," concluded the NPMHR, Nagaland sector.

Meanwhile, a joint statement of appeal has also been released by the United Naga Council (UNC), All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Naga Women`s Union Manipur (NWUM) and the Naga People`s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR-south sector).

The joint statement said that while appreciating the positive statements from different quarters for Naga national reconciliation and unity, the students` community representing the younger generation has made conscious choice towards realizing the aspiration of the people through strengthening of the emotional bond in the quest for common understanding of our people, land and culture.

"It considers the continuing threats issued by the NSCN (K) on the students community and against those institutions/individuals supposedly would be facilitating the hosting of examination as unfortunate and insensible," rued the Naga frontal organisations. The joint statement further said that those very acts of intimidation and promotion of a culture of fear and insecurity holds enormous consequences endangering the future Naga generations. In the interest of unity of purpose for all Nagas and their homeland and in the spirit of respecting the right of choice or self-identification for the students who wish to opt for NBSE curricula due to its cultural sensitivity and affinity, the bodies appealed to NSCN(K) to withdraw its threats to disturb the taking of examination by Naga hills students of Manipur in order to create a congenial atmosphere to perform their duties, said the statement. "We also appeal to all communities and institutions to kindly cooperate in the larger interest of our people`s quest for just peace, understanding and solidarity," said the statement of the UNC, ANSAM, NPMHR-(south sector) and NWUM.

Manipur rebels held OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, Feb. 5: The finance secretary of the banned People’s United Liberation Front (PULF), was arrested along with two others at Dimapur railway station on Saturday evening. The three rebels from the Islamic outfit in Manipur were trying to board a train to Guwahati. Dimapur police said Jasmin, the 35-year-old finance secretary, also goes under aliases like Sony, Sahana, and Samira. The other two have been identified as Jasmin’s husband Md Thahir Ali Shah from Hota village in Imphal East district and 15-year-old Ashma from Yaripok village in Thoubal district. The police also seized two mobile phones and Rs 3,910 from the militants.
The police said Ashma, who is well versed in Nagamese, was working as an interpreter for the finance secretary, who cannot speak or understand the language. Jasmine is wanted by the police for activities under the Explosive Substance Act and the Arms Act.
On July 18 last year, the police had busted the PULF finance cell located in a high security zone at a distance of only 50 metres from the residence of chief minister Neiphiu Rio in Dimapur.
They had also arrested 10 PULF activists and recovered huge quantities of arms and ammunition, including Chinese grenades, along with incriminating documents. Dimapur has become a safe haven for militant groups of the region, taking advantage of the ongoing truce between the Centre and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah).
An appeal to gprn, nscn(k)- Nagaland Post
Our journey to the Promised Land is being delayed be-cause of our disobedience to God. Naga people have become rusted and rotten which have stopped us to get into the Promised Land since last 60 years. Factions have trusted upon their own ability and power and fought for their factional supremacy. In the past, we have tried our best for National Reconciliation but sadly, highly respected organisation GPRN, NSCN (IM) have refused to come to terms. At present, GPRN, NSCN (K) refused National Reconciliation with quit notice being served to Tangkhul community.
NNC/FGN claimed that Naga ancestral homeland belongs to the Naga people but they seem to refuse to accept the reality of the people as Nagas. When Nagaland State Government opens door to Naga people as a whole allowing Naga young brothers and sisters from Manipur to appear NBSE exams to be a part of Naga in their homeland, GPRN, NSCN(K) has kept strong reservations to hinder the youngsters from writing annual HSLC exam under NBSE.
Therefore, the Council of Naga Baptist Churches(CNBC), appeals to the GPRN, NSCN(K) to revoke their stance in preventing the students from appearing their HSLC examination but to welcome and make them homely so that they may become a responsible citizens of next generation in our homeland. We believe that national building is not only by power and guns but by collective enterprise of God's mandate.
When Israel got independence, David Ben Gurion, then the Prime Minister of Israel emphatically declared that homeland is not gotten as a gift; it is not acquired by privilege or political contracts, it is not bought with gold or held by force. No, it is made with the sweat of the brow, it is the historic creation and collective enterprise of the people, the fruit of its peoples labor bodily, spiritually, morally over the span of generations. He said, "If we don't conquer the desert, the desert shall conquer us."
We must learn lesson from the Israelites who struggled for national spirit. Let us sink down our differences and stand together hand in hand as a nation.
Rev. Dr. V. K. Nuh, General Secretary, Council of Naga Baptist Churches, Kohima.
Hidden till examination day OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, Feb. 5: The 3,000-odd students who have come here from the four hill districts of Manipur for the High School Leaving Certificate examination are being kept at undisclosed locations with round-the-clock police protection. The students will sit for the exam at three centres — one at Viswema near Kohima and two in Dimapur — with threats from the NSCN (Khaplang) looming large over their heads. The outfit has been against the idea of schools in the hill districts of Manipur switching affiliation to the Nagaland board because it is an extension of the rival NSCN (I-M)’s campaign for the integration of all Naga-inhabited areas. Several organisations continue to appeal to the Khaplang group to reconsider its diktat and allow the students to write their exams.
The Naga Students’ Federation has appealed to the general secretary of the outfit, Kitovi Zhimomi, to withdraw the threat. Its spokesman W.H. Maring and vice-president Imchatoba said they had tried to “save the Naga students from the divide-and-rule policy” of the Manipur government.
“The students of the southern Naga area on their own decided to reject the syllabus prescribed by the Manipur government and started the exodus. Our board came to their help purely on humanitarian grounds,” the federation said. Tenyimi Central Union, the conglomeration of several Naga tribes, also appealed to the outfit to exercise utmost restraint.
Among others who have urged the NSCN (K) to do a rethink are Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights, United Naga Council, Western Sumi Frontal Organisation, All Naga Students’ Association of Manipur, Naga Women’s Union, Manipur, Nagaland Baptist Church Council, Naga Hoho and the Tangkhul Hoho. Home minister Thenucho has also appealed to the outfit to reconsider its threat to the students and revoke the “quit notice” served on the Tangkhuls.
He has also written to the Ceasefire Supervisory Board overseeing the truce ground rules. NSCN (K) deputy kilo kilonser (deputy home minister) Wangtin said they would use all means to prevent the Naga students of Manipur from appearing for the examination. The Nagaland Baptist Church Council today said yesterday’s meeting with the NSCN (K) was “unsuccessful”.
Rev. Kari Longchari, director of Nagaland Baptist Church Council Peace Mission, said they had failed to convince the NSCN (K) to revoke the “quit notice” served on the Tangkhuls.
Peace observers’ to be designated for exams Dimapur public appeals to NSCN-K for lifting ban The Morung Express Peter Chachei
Dimapur With barely a day left for the students to appear for their respective final examinations (HSLC/HSSLC) amidst threats from the Khaplang faction of the NSCN putting a ceiling on the southern Naga students from appearing HSLC Examination 2007 under the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE), representatives from various major mass-based Naga tribal Hoho’s, Civil organisations, various unions leaders, senior citizens, student body leaders, Dimapur Municipal Council members headed by its chairperson and district administration headed by the Deputy Commissioner came together today to a common platform at the DC’s Conference Hall and deliberately discussed particularly on the issue confronting the attachment of Naga students from Manipur.
The members present during the emergency meeting which was chaired by the DC, Dimapur after prolonged deliberations, unanimously resolved to extend full cooperation of the general public towards the District Administration in its efforts to maintain peace, law and order during conduct of the said examinations. The assembly also agreed upon ‘To voice a public appeal to the NSCN (K) authorities to grant partial lifting of its ban on the said examinations on humanitarian grounds for students in their earnest pursuit of education which is universal to all.”
The meeting also resolved to send few representatives from every walk of life to the designated ‘sensitive’ examination centres as ‘Peace observers’ on a regular basis where the students from Manipur will be appearing their exams. Dimapur district has a total of 51 examination centres of which two centres are being kept for the students coming from the four hills district of Manipur.
GoI violating CF ground rules: NSCN (IM) The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, FEB 5 (MExN): The NSCN/GPRN today condemned in severest terms the gross violation of cease-fire ground rules by the 13 Assam Rifles. The ground rule was laid down in between the GoI and the NSCN. Through a late statement issued by the MIP/GPRN, it charged the Government of India for violating the ground-rules of the ceasefire, wherein today, despite outmost restrain maintained by the NSCN/GPRN, the 13 Assam Rifles personnel numbering around 100, under its Commanding Officer in all provocation encroach the designated camp of Kiusumong Battalion of Naga Army, armed with assorted weaponries, violating the agreed cease-fire ground rules. “The attack on Kiusumong Battalion of Naga Army by the AR is not the first time, but rather the fourth attempt initiated by the said Commanding Officer following his personal innovation,” stated the statement.
NSCN/GPRN, in spite of its manifestations and expediting the peaceful resolutions to the protracted Indo-Naga political conflict, has been time and again appealing the GoI for respecting each other and honoring the hard earned peace initiatives towards achieving an amicable and peaceful resolution both in letter and spirit, but expressed the regret that the agencies of GoI have time and again continued to exhibit callous violations of cease-fire ground rules and human rights, either deliberately or obstinately, the statement added.
The NSCN/GPRN further questioned the Indian Government to clearly declare whether they (GoI) are sincere in about bringing peace or resumption of war. It indicated that Nagas are committed to peaceful resolutions and should not be forced to resort back to the past approaches to express their rights. It added.

NAGALAND ANNUAL PLAN 2007-08 FINALIZED NNK : RK
The Annual Plan outlay for Nagaland for the year 2007-08 was approved today at a meeting between the Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Shri Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio. The Annual Plan size was agreed at Rs.900 crores.

Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, complimented the State for high growth rate specially in the sectors of agriculture and education. He said socio-economic progress in the State was impressive. Efforts to promote bio-diversity conservation and empowering village development committees were steps in the right direction. He also appreciated the Eleventh Plan proposal of the State and suggested that efforts should be made to improve tax base.

It was pointed out that more districts of the State would be covered under NREGP. State was asked to pay more attention to programmes under Bharat Nirman and work towards improving quality of education. Attention was also drawn to losses in the power sector and expenditure on salaries to the government employees.
The Chief Minister pointed out that the policies followed for the last few years have helped in accelerating growth. He said growth in agriculture particularly horticulture was encouraging and have attained commercial scale. Industrial houses like Dabur & ITC have shown interest in the products. Flowers are being exported and food-grain production has gone up substantially.

Efforts are on to balance liberalization with social equity for which many innovations ranging from new and simple technologies to e-governance are being introduced. He said the State is being counted among front running reforming States of the country. GSDP has been growing at an average of 11.2 per cent with a primary sector growth of 15 per cent and secondary sector at 13.2 per cent. The per capita income was at slightly over Rs.21000. He said the State would be aiming at a growth rate of 14.46 per cent for the Eleventh Plan period. Besides agriculture focus will be on marketing, processing and technology intervention. Organic cultivation would be promoted. He sought Planning Commission support in improving connectivity.

CNBC calls for national spirit; appeals to NSCN (K) The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, FEB 5 (MExN): Pointing out that the Naga people’s journey “to the Promised Land is being delayed because of our disobedience to God”, the Council of Naga Baptist Churches stated that “Naga people rust and rot which have stopped us to get into the Promised Land since the last 60 years”.
“Factions have trusted upon their own ability and power and fought for their factional supremacy. In the past, we have tried our best for National Reconciliation but sadly, highly respected organisation GPRN, NSCN (IM) has refused to come to terms. At present, GPRN, NSCN (K) refused National Reconciliation with quit notice being served to Tangkhul community”, stated Rev. Dr. V. K. Nuh General Secretary Council of Naga Baptist Churches (CNBC) in a press note.
Further, the NNC/FGN, claimed that Naga ancestral homeland belongs to the Naga people but they seem to refuse to accept the reality of the people as Nagas, the CNBC stated. And when the Nagaland State Government opened doors to the Naga people as a whole allowing Naga young brothers and sisters from Manipur to appear NBSE exams to be a part of Naga in their homeland, GPRN, NSCN (K) has kept strong reservations to hinder the youngsters from writing annual HSLC exam under NBSE, the CNBC further lamented.
As such, the CNBC appealed to the NSCN (K) to revoke their stance in preventing the students from appearing their HSLC examination but to welcome and make them homely so that they may become responsible citizens of next generation in our homeland. “We believe that national building is not only by power and guns but by collective enterprise of God’s mandate”.
“When Israel got independence, David Ben Gurion, the then Prime Minister of Israel emphatically declared that homeland is not gotten as a gift; it is not acquired by privilege or political contracts, it is not bought with gold or held by force. No, it is made with the sweat of the brow, it is the historic creation and collective enterprise of the people, the fruit of its peoples labor bodily, spiritually, morally over the span of generations”, the CNBS stated quoting the former Israeli Prime Minister. Pointing out that Nagas must likewise learn a lesson from the Israelites who struggled for national spirit, the CNBC called for sinking down our differences and standing together hand in hand as a nation.
Govt to spend $100 million on linking Mizoram-Myanmar The Morung Express
The multi-modal project will include shipping, riverine and road transport
NEW DELHI, FEB 5 (agencies): As part of its efforts to form strategic alliances in the subcontinent, the government is planning to undertake a multimodal transport project from Mizoram to Myanmar. Requiring about $1.1 billion in investment, the project would see the government spending about $100 million and would also be liable for all cost over runs. The Myanmar government would pay $10 million as well as provide free land for the project. Soft loans would be given to the Myanmar government to cover its contribution of $10 million.
As part of the project, Mizoram and ports on the eastern side would be connected to Sittwe port in Myanmar by a shipping link. It would then be followed by a riverrine transport facility from Sittwe port to Kaletwa in Myanmar, which would then be connected to Mizoram by road. Arrangements for customs, immigration and other border-crossing services are also likely to be made as part of the project. The government is planning to set up a Land Port Authority, which is likely to be given these responsibilities.
Envisaged by the ministry of external affairs in 2003, the project has also got the Myanmar government’s approval. It has already received an in-principle approval from the Planning Commission and is likely to go to the Cabinet for formal approval once certain financial issues regarding its commercial viability and rate of return have been settled.
However, it has been decided that the project should be undertaken at the earliest due to its strategic importance. The project is also high on the government’s priority as it would help counter China’s growing importance in Myanmar.
The Chinese government too is keen on building rail-road connectivity there.

Neighbourly Ties
• Apart from spending the amount, the government will spend also be liable for all cost over runs
• The Myanmar government will pay $10 million and provide free land for the project
• Mizoram will be connected to the Sittwe port in Myanmar by a shipping link; a riverine transport facility from Sittwe to Kaletwa in Myanmar and then to Mizoram by road.
New Mantle The Morung Express editorial
The appointment of K. Sankaranarayanan—a former Finance Minister of Kerala and a confidant of Defence Minister A.K. Antony—as Governor of Nagaland to replace former Intelligence Bureau Chief Shyamal Datta is significant in more ways than one. As rightly pointed out by the Chief Minister himself, New Delhi has finally decided to depart from the tradition of appointing persons with police and army background as governors of politically sensitive States of the North East Region, and instead, has chosen a politician as the Governor of Nagaland this time.
Having said that, the bigger question remains on whether this is really an indication of the subtle shift in the approach of the Centre towards Nagaland and the recognition of Naga political situation as a political issue rather than that of a law and order issue or is it just going to be mere speculation on the part of the CM and the media in Nagaland. After all, a change in guard was always on the cards and appointing a politician is no big deal. While former army officers may have dominated gubernatorial appointments in the recent past, it does not mean that politicians were never given postings in Nagaland. But then if the Government of India is really sincere about the peace process and if it feels that appointing a seasoned politician will be better suited to the post-ceasefire context, one should welcome this shift in thinking. However, there are also strong reasons to suggest that the appointment of a Congress politician has more to do with electoral politics and the convenient advantage of having a man at Kohima for the Centre to keep a close eye on both the development and law and order front. And with Assembly Elections due in a few months time, such a calculation is not hard to come by.
This should not however, take anything away from his Excellency K. Sankaranarayanan, the new Governor of Nagaland, who has proved that he can be a staunch Congressman and yet manage the pulls and pressures of parties with diverse interests—having guided the United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala through turbulent times for 16 years. Known for his fair-play while managing the UDF coalition, Sankaranarayanan will have to play a similar role as the Constitutional head of the State and while working along side the NPF led DAN government headed by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. As a seasoned politician and known as a practitioner of clean politics, Sankaranarayanan has enormous experience when it comes to governance. As a Finance Minister, he was instrumental in guiding the State through its fiscal reforms programme, though it involved some hard measures, including downsizing Government staff and reducing several benefits and was credited with leaving behind a sound exchequer behind for his successor to capitalize on. As Nagaland Governor, Mr. Sankaranarayanan would have to bring all his political skills into full play to manage both the political and development aspect of this troubled State. As rightly pointed out by Rio, his vast political experience and acumen will stand him in good stead in his new role as Governor of our State.
NSCN (K) firm on ‘quit notice’ Kohima Bureau Nagaland Post
Feb 5 (NPN): In a clear indication of standing firm over its decision to enforce the 'quit notice' issued on the Tangkhuls to leave Nagaland on or before February 5,2007 the NSCN (K) has reiterated that the responsibility fell upon the Tangkhuls to "respond to the quit notice".
NSCN-K Secretary in-charge of Education, NGOs and Public Relation K. Zhimomi (Kughavi) claimed that the leaders of the Tangkhul community were still silent on the quit notice. "When they are silent what is the use of other Nagas speaking on behalf of the Tangkhuls?", he asked, while referring to various appeals made by the different Naga organizations including Church for withdrawing the 'quit notice'. Zhimomi said "We got response from Th.Muivah who only said that it is only a paper war". He also alleged that of late, the NSCN-IM was engaged in a new modus operandi of capturing and killing well known Naga intellectuals by injecting an overdose of drugs to hide their crime especially in Dimapur areas.
On the other hand, he also claimed that several NSCN (K) leaders were receiving telephone calls from the Tangkhuls who promised that if the quit notice was revoked some 20 to 30 Tangkhuls would defect to the NSCN (K) from the NSCN (I-M). Zhimomi also he revealed that in a show of direct challenge to the NSCN(K) 'quit notice' , about two to three Tangkhul youths who went to Mon to join the NSCN (K) recently were "almost finished off". "This clearly proved that their intention is not for sovereignty or for nationalism but only to be Nagas", he said.
On the other hand, the NSCN (K) secretary also criticized some Naga leaders whether overground or underground, of shouting only in Dimapur and Kohima without knowing what was going on in the remote corner of the Naga areas. Zhimomi, who was earlier involved in over ground politics in various capacities under regional parties including the Congress for around 26 years ,said that he had visited all the areas of Nagaland and also other part of the neighbouring Naga areas of Manipur, Assam, Myanmar and Arunachal Pradesh. He said Naga leaders were shouting from Dimapur and Kohima without visiting the interior areas and leaving behind the eastern part of the Nagas where there are rich natural resources. He claimed that it was only the NSCN (K) which was defending eastern Nagaland and that, had it not been for the NSCN-K, the eastern Nagas especially the border areas, would have become refugees or slaves of the Myanmarese. He also pointed out that the Nagas in the remote areas had been deprived of even the basic education. Nagas from the eastern side including Mon, were still in nursery or primary school levels where the males were at their "mustache shaving stage", he said. Further, Zhimomi said many Naga youths from the southern Nagaland (Manipur) were making a living as waiters in the hotels or working in the workshops.
Similarly, the Nagas from northern Nagaland (Arunachal Pradesh) were deprived of even the basic education. While shouting over issues, Zhimomi said Naga leaders should be positive in their action for peace and harmony and without partiality or favoritism.
An Open Letter to UNC The Morung Express Open letter to the editor
In the backdrop of the UNC participating in the current 9th Manipur Legislative Assembly 2007, I, an ardent Naga in every perceivable term feels it pertinent to put forth the few questions for prompt and fitting justification before the sea of doubt could shroud my conscience :
1. Under the given situation, the UNC by fielding its own independent candidate and launching open campaign for them in the Naga Hills, coalesced by some tribal bodies and team from Hebron has in no uncertain term given a confusing signal. Has UNC become a Political Party of Manipur?
2. The UNC slogan for the last election was a bold ‘NO SOLUTION, NO ELECTION’. It was such a successful and intensified campaign, co-operated by all Nagas alike. The present campaign under any parameter should be dubbed as ‘Un-intensified’ Campaign. Have the Nagas found the Solution that we enter election? That, we not only participate and field candidates but also fly the revered UNC flag and launch open campaign for the independent candidates who have been ‘blessed’, ‘anointed’ by UNC (or is it by the ‘people’?). UNC certainly appear to have lost direction.
3. The criteria/yardstick adopted in selecting the candidates to be fielded is highly questionable. It is devoid of any logic. The UNC went on record to denounce the Naga MLAs of the last election for doing nothing or too little to safeguard greater Naga aspiration. However, when the list of UNC endorsed candidates was finalized, it surprisingly came up with the names of some Legislators from the last Assembly who have appended their signature for protection of Manipur integrity. It also has names of those legislators of the Nipamacha govt. who first signed the Manipur integrity pact. Now it remains to be questioned at what cost these ‘black sheeps’ were made to receive the UNC ‘blessing’.
4. The UNC fielded candidates, the UNC and its subordinate bodies, while campaigning are often found to be giving the impression that UNC’s blessed candidates have also the Collective Leadership’s endorsement. Justification is needed immediately here so the names of our collective leadership are not unnecessarily embroiled or trapped into the annals of Indian election.
5. There have already been incidents of forced arrest and intimidation by the underground cadres on the Cong-I workers in Ukhrul District and elsewhere in regard to the current election. Threat has been employed to vote for UNC candidate. We already have instance of Cong-I Candidate from 44 Ukhrul A/C AS. Arthur’s Daughters been kidnapped along with their driver and their vehicle seized by cadres belonging to NSCN. We have also heard of UG cadres arresting a score of Cong-I workers from different villages under 45 Chingai A/C, a strong hold of the sitting Cong-I MLA. The selective methods of applying force and threat against candidates who have prospect in the ensuing election have only shown partiality. It has also given an evidently clear message to Delhi of the NSCN’s keen interest in Indian Election and Indian affairs and their shallow diplomacy. 6. Finally, what must never be forgotten is that the Voice of the People is the Voice of God. It shall be imperative therefore that the UNC, being the Vanguard of all Nagas in Manipur feel the pulse of the people at this crucial juncture. Let the greater interest of the greater number of people prevail. If not, the root gets shattered and rots away. KUKNALIM A.Shatsang Ningmi Viewland, Ukhrul On email
ULFA wakes up to sports lovers, calls off boycott
Three days short of the inauguration of the 33rd National Games in the Assam capital, the outlawed United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) today withdrew its boycott call of the event. ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa said the decision was taken in view of appeals made by "eminent sportspersons" and "countless sportsloving people" of the state.
The ULFA chief's announcement was e-mailed to newspaper offices here this afternoon. With this, the uncertainty over the Games as come to an end though the state government has said there will be no relaxation in security. "Several eminent sportspersons including Bhogeswar Barua, Monalisa Barua, Gilbertson Sangma, Tayebunnessa, Babul Phukan and others, apart from countless sportsloving people of Assam have appealed to us to withdraw the boycott of the National Games of colonial India. These sportspersons and sportslovers are not people who collaborate with the colonial rule, exploitation and repression. Instead, they are spotless people who are associated with a sacred activity like sports. We withdraw the boycott as a response to their appeal," said Rajkhowa in his statement.
He said the withdrawal of the boycott call did not mean the outfit would "permit" holding of any such event till the "Assam-India conflict" is resolved. The ULFA's withdrawal of the boycott of the Games came amid a raging controversy triggered off by a local television channel report which accused the ULFA of taking money from the state government to lift the ban. While Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi denied having "managed" the ULFA, the outfit in turn even told the television channel to wind up if it failed to substantiate its claim. In November, the ULFA had announced that it would not let the National Games take place because it considered the Games as another manifestation of the "colonial dominance" of Assam by New Delhi. Despite tight security in Guwahati, the ULFA set off a car-bomb at the Panbazar police station in the heart of the city yesterday. Meanwhile, state contingents have started reaching Guwahati for the Games. The first to arrive was the contingent from Punjab while more teams are expected here tonight.
ULFA's lifting of games boycott call may signal peace By IANS
Guwahati, Feb 6 (IANS) The withdrawal of a boycott call against the National Games here by the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) may put derailed peace talks between the militants and the Assam government back on track.
'This is indeed a step in the positive direction. Doors for talks are open and if the ULFA wants a negotiated settlement, they are most welcome,' Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said.
The 10-day games - set to kick off in Guwahati Friday - were clouded with fear and panic after the ULFA called for a boycott of the event unless it was renamed as the Assam Sports Festival.
But on Monday, the ULFA surprised everyone by withdrawing its boycott call.
'In response to an appeal made by some leading sportspersons to reconsider our decision, we have decided to lift the boycott call of the National Games,' said ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa in a statement. Political pundits said the decision to lift the boycott call could once again help in restarting the failed peace process. 'If the ULFA restrains itself from carrying out any violent activities for sometime, the government of India must try and walk the extra mile and begin some sort of a track-two policy to see if there could be a meeting point for holding fresh talks,' Hare Krishna Deka, a former state police chief, told IANS. 'Both sides should now respond positively and try and understand each other's point of view without being belligerent in their attitude,' he added. Peace talks had collapsed after the central government called off a six-week ceasefire in September and resumed military operations, blaming the ULFA for stepped up violence and extortions. Efforts at leading the ULFA leadership to direct talks formally failed after New Delhi refused to release five jailed rebel leaders - a precondition by the outfit to begin negotiations.
New Delhi had said it would release the jailed leaders only if the militant outfit gave a written promise on direct peace talks. The ULFA refused to give this in writing, leading to the collapse of the peace initiative. 'The government should now take some bold steps to give a fresh lease of life to the failed peace process. By now the government should realise that insurgency cannot be crushed militarily as was evident in recent months when the ULFA went on a killing spree despite massive security,' said Ram Gopal Sharma, a retired police official. The writing on the wall is clear - the people of Assam want peace and expect both the government and the ULFA to bury their differences and end the three-decades-old violent insurgency in the region via dialogue.
Two venues, same script, but Sonia draws crowd, AICC chief tests AFSPA water By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
Wangjing, Feb 5 : Congress president Sonia Gandhi, while stating that the SPF Government has already lifted the Disturbed Area status has assured that the Government is looking seriously to lift the same from other areas too. The Armed Forces Special Powers Act is enforced in areas which are declared Disturbed Areas. Addressing a mammoth gathering here at Kodom-pokpi ground at Wangjing town in Thoubal district about 27 kilometers from the State’s capital today, the Congress chief said “You all know that the Act has been removed from seven Assembly Constituencies in Imphal municipal areas. The Government is looking seriously to lift the same from other areas too”.
However election manifesto of the Congress for the 9th Assembly election did not explicitly say anything on the repeal or continued imposition of the said Act. On the other hand the Congress emphasized more on peace and harmony. Going along the lines of the manifesto, Gandhi said the Congress led Government at the Centre is also committed to promoting peace and communal harmony. She also stressed the need to enhance women empowerment, social empowerment, employment opportunity, and social security. While acknowledging the State’s rich culture and excellence in sports, she lauded the role of Manipuri women in fighting social evils and injustice.
Stating that the law and order situation in the State has improved after the completion of the full five year term of Congress led Government in Manipur, Gandhi said “when I came down here five years ago the law and order situation as well as the economic condition was grave”.
The Congress that emerged the single largest party in the previous polls formed the Government and set the record of being the first Govt to complete its term in Manipur. This has also brought about a great change, she said. It is only the Congress which can fulfil the aspirations of the people of Manipur, she claimed while exhorting the mammoth crowd of about 30,000 people to cast their votes for the Congress “for a bright future of the State”. She also recalled the huge economic packages announced by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh during his recent visit to the State. The packages include upgradation of Regional Institute of Medical Sciences to the status of AIIMS, Manipur Institute of Technology to National Institute of Technology, National Highways and many other developmental fronts, she said . The Congress led UPA Government has taken up a number of developmental works unlike the previous BJP led NDA Government, Gandhi claimed while pointing out that under the dynamic leadership of the Congress, Manipur has entered the IT age giving job opportunities to a number of youths. On territorial integrity, she said, “ Congress is committed to maintain the territorial integrity of Manipur and this commitment has been kept as a firm policy of the party.” Commenting on insurgency, the AICC chief said the insurgents have not succeeded in their goals because the people do not support them adding “We have to fight insurgency”. Supporting the Prime Minister’s appeal to all insurgent groups to come forward for a meaningful dialogue, Gandhi said they should talk to bring about a permanent settlement provided they should shun the path of violence. Union Cabinet Minister Oscar Fernandez and other Congress leaders accompanied the AICC chief. Thoubal having 10 constituencies along with Senapati district will go to poll in the first phase on February 8. The second and third phase poll is slated for February 14 and 23.
UNLF ‘unmasks’ CM with Rs 24 crs By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Feb 5 : Turning the table on the Chief Minister and his cohorts, the proscribed UNLF today claimed that though the CM has been claiming that it is the militant groups which have been eating into the development funds doled out by Delhi, it is in fact Ibobi and his men who have been taking their share and robbing the people. It is common knowledge that for any development fund that is released, the Chief Minister takes 10 to 15 pc of the total amount, said the outfit in a statement. However this amount is peanuts during the Indian election which is nothing but a big business transaction, said the outfit and claimed that to meet the election expenditure, Ibobi and his cohort, Govindas had withdrawn a huge amount of money by way of “Akash Bill” (money withdrawn without doing any work/in the name of non-existent work) from the PWD from October last year. Once this came to the knowledge of the Central Special Force of the UNLF, a total amount of Rs 4,81,69,500 was ‘surrendered’ to the outfit by the officials and Ministers concerned, said the statement. The reason why UNLF undertook the investigation and unmask the truth is to expose the true face of the Chief Minister and his men and not to weed out corruption. Explaining, UNLF said that as long as Manipur is under India, corruption will thrive because it is in the Indian system. To root out corruption, therefore, the system has be uprooted first, it maintained. The truth is also being told to make the people aware of the role being enacted by the Chief Minister who has always been blaming the militant organisa- tions of dipping their hands into the fund doled out by Delhi. UNLF and the people know that the money siphoned off by Ibobi and his men will never be used for the welfare of the people, claimed the statement and added that the CM is spreading canards so that he can lay his hands on more money. UNLF is also of the opinion that the engineers and officials are not guilty as they wereused as pawns by the Chief Minister and Minister as collectors, said the statement. The amount of Rs 4,81,69,500 with the UNLF will not be used as the party's fund, said UNLF and added that it aims to use for the development of the interiors areas. The outfit has also sought the suggestions of the people on its utilisation.
Operation against ULFA to continue From Our Spl Correspondent Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, Feb 5 – Despite the withdrawal of the boycott call by ULFA, Government of India is not going to lower guard and Army operations against the rebel group are going to continue. ULFA’s last minute move may have come as a face-saver for the State Government, but the Centre is not impressed and forces may not be ask to go slow in counter-insurgency operations, sources said.

Within hours of the ULFA’s announcement, a very high-level meeting was held at the North Block, which was attended by Union Home Secretary, VK Duggal, IB Chief, PC Halder, RAW chief Ashok Chaturvedi, besides top officials of the inter-intelligence agencies.

Though officials were tight lipped, it was learnt that the meeting reviewed the situation in Asom in great detail and in context of the National Games. In this connection, presence of RAW officials was significant because most of the top leadership of the ULFA are based abroad.

The turmoil in Bangladesh and its possible fallout in Asom has become source of concern for the Centre. The State Government has been pressing the Centre to put pressure on Bangladesh through diplomatic channel to crackdown on the militant outfit. Sources said that the Government was going to watch the situation more closely and will not call off the operations. The recent spate of killings in the aftermath of the collapse of the peace process is too fresh in Centre’s mind to take any chances. The meeting also assumed significance because of mounting speculation that the five prisoners may be released by the Government of India, as a goodwill gesture to once again start the peace process. Chief Minister, Tarun Gogoi who met the Prime Minister, External Affairs Minister and Home Minister recently said that doors were still open but the militant outfit has to first shun violence, besides ruling out sovereignty as subject of discussion. The Centre, meanwhile, welcomed the ULFA’s decision and said the option of talks with the insurgent group was always open. “Its a good move,’’ Home Secretary Duggal said.
Gogoi thanks ULFA By A Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Feb 5 – Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today thanked the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) for withdrawing its call to boycott the National Games. Talking to newsmen, Gogoi said that it was a positive gesture on the part of the ULFA.

He said that the doors for talks with the ULFA for a political solution of the problem are still open and hoped the ULFA’s decision would pave the way for talks.
Sonia urges militants to shun violence
Cong will not compromise with territorial integrity of Manipur Sentinel
Feb 5: Congress president Sonia Gandhi today appealed to all militant groups to shun violence and come to the negotiating table.
Addressing two public meetings at Kadompokpi ground at Thoubal district and another at Hapta Kangjeibung at Imphal west for the coming Assembly, she said the door is always open for all to come forward for talks. But they should first give up their arms, she added.
She said the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958, was an issue debated in the region. The Congress led government in Manipur had withdrawn it from the seven Assembly constituencies of the state and the Act may be withdrawn from other parts also, Ms Gandhi observed. Addressing the two meetings, she said the Congress party will never compromise the territorial integrity of Manipur.
She expressed happiness over the presence of large numbers of women during the meetings. She said the women of the state were exhibiting their skill in various fields and their participation in all walks of life needs to be emulated by other women folk of the country. In the interest of the youths and women the government will take up schemes for self employment, she assured. She said Mrs Indira Gandhi and Mr Rajiv Gandhi had also addressed public meetings at Manipur and she herself had addressed a public meeting five years ago.
She appealed to the people to support the Congress for the sake of the people. Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, State Congress president Gaikhangam, Congress general secretary Oscar Fernandes and other Congress leaders were present during the two meetings. The Thoubal district where she addressed her first meeting has ten assembly segments and will go to polls on February 8 and it is the home constituency of the Chief Minister. (UNI)
Allow students to take NBSE exams, Naga bodies to NSCN-K Sentinel
Feb 5: Naga frontal organisations have appealed to the NSCN-K to revoke the threat notice issued against Naga students from Manipur who want to sit for the NBSE examination in Nagaland.
The United Naga Council (UNC), the Naga People‘s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM) and Naga Women’s Union, Manipur (NWUM) have made a joint appeal to the NSCN(K) in this regard.
The NPMHR (Nagaland sector) while issuing a statement to Newmai News Network last night through its convenor Lanu Sashi Longkumer and general secretary of the NPMHR (secretariat) Nepuni Piku said that the “demands for affiliation of students from the Naga hills of Manipur is an expression of the will of the people who continue to be oppressed through the systematic process of brainwashing of upholding the dominant culture and way of life while deriding the age old unique cultural and historical rights of the Nagas.”
“Throughout history it is the dominant that often create and write history to perpetuate the dominance of the frontier communities under their so called sphere of influence. Language has been one chief medium through which the dominant system tries to exclude the other communities in the name of homogenization and dominance.
The dominant community through the systematic coercion and connivance of the state administration has been trying to impose the Meitei Mayek (script) since decades which rightfully continues to be resisted by the hill people in general and the Nagas in particular,” added the statement. The Naga rights body further said that it will be the people and not imposed structures that will decide the future of the people. “NPMHR appreciates and extends our critical solidarity to the peaceful assertion and critical demonstration of the students` community through the banner of Naga Students Federation (NSF) which is a just struggle for dignity,” added the statement.
NPMHR also expressed its gratitude to the role of the Nagaland state government ‘for positively affirming and upholding the right of choice for the students’ community in the Naga hills of Manipur to gain affiliation with the Nagaland Board of Secondary Education (NBSE).’
The Naga rights body further added that the NPMHR is for unification of Naga homeland wherever Nagas are contiguously placed and demands removal of all artificial boundaries that is in the way of Nagas fully exercising their rights to self-determination. It then cautions that any impediment cause towards this effort of creating a common vision is a negation in our united search for unity in purpose towards achieving our aspiration as a people.
“NPMHR considers the threat notice issued by certain national groups as deviation from our common goal and appeal for immediate revocation of threats which creates an abnormal situation for all especially the young minds preparing to take the important exams,” concluded the NPMHR, Nagaland sector.
Meanwhile, a joint statement of appeal has also been released by the United Naga Council (UNC), All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Naga Women‘s Union Manipur (NWUM) and the Naga People‘s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR-south sector). The joint statement said that while appreciating the positive statements from different quarters for Naga national reconciliation and unity, the students‘ community representing the younger generation has made conscious choice towards realizing the aspiration of the people through strengthening of the emotional bond in the quest for common understanding of our people, land and culture.
“It considers the continuing threats issued by the NSCN (K) on the students community and against those institutions/individuals supposedly would be facilitating the hosting of examination as unfortunate and insensible,” rued the Naga frontal organisations.
The joint statement further said that those very acts of intimidation and promotion of a culture of fear and insecurity holds enormous consequences endangering the future Naga generations. In the interest of unity of purpose for all Nagas and their homeland and in the spirit of respecting the right of choice or self-identification for the students who wish to opt for NBSE curricula due to its cultural sensitivity and affinity, the bodies appealed to NSCN(K) to withdraw its threats to disturb the taking of examination by Naga hills students of Manipur in order to create a congenial atmosphere to perform their duties, said the statement.(Agencies)

New Governor vows to bring peace in Nagaland Sentinel
Kohima Jan 5: Newly sworn-in Nagaland Governor K Sankaranarayana said he came to the easternmost part of the county—Nagaland—from the southernmost part of the country—Kerala—with a big heart and tremendous hope that he would work for the ‘betterment of the State (Nagaland), its people and the down-trodden people’.
Speaking to the media after his swearing-in ceremony here recently, the new Governor agreed that Nagaland like any other States had ‘its own problem’. He was, however, confident that each and every problem could be resolved with the “support and cooperation” of the people of Nagaland. “And to me as a Governor of the State and the experiences I had as Minister, as politician and as social worker, we would be able to move forward to serve the people of Nagaland and its down-trodden people within the four walls of the Constitution”, Sankaranarayana said. “I have no reservation in my mind and that I would like to have more interactions with the people of Nagaland to reach this goal”.
Meanwhile, sending a message to the people of Nagaland soon after his taking over the reign as Governor of the State, Sankaranarayana assured that he would work sincerely for “peace, social harmony and economic progress in the State”.
He said Nagaland had been affected by the decades old insurgency, although there had been some respite in the recent years due to ceasefire between the Government of India and the underground groups. But that peace remained ‘imperfect and fragile’ because of the threats, extortion and factional violence, he pointed out. The new Governor further pointed out such prevailing situation hindered present society from achieving its full potential, besides the well being of their families and their future was at stake. He also called upon the political leaders, NGOs, church leaders, intellectuals, government servants, security forces, village elders and the youth to ‘redouble’ their efforts for bringing about a qualitative improvement in the prevailing atmosphere. (Agencies)

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02/06/2007: "On campaign trail, Sonia woos Manipur"