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02/11/2007: "‘Naga identity to remain intact’ Nagaland Post"


‘Naga identity to remain intact’ Nagaland Post
Kolkata, Feb 10 (PTI): The Centre will convince the people of Nagaland that it will not infringe on their cultural identity while it holds talks to resolve the insuregncy in the state, Union Minister for Development of the Northeastern Region Mani Shankar Aiyar said today.
"Talks are on in Nagaland. We will try to convince them that this is their country and Delhi will give whatever help is needed," Aiyar told the closing ceremony of a week-long Assam handicraft exhibition here this evening. "In India, it is possible to be an Indian and yet retain one's regional identity. If I can be a Tamil and an Indian, what is their problem in being Nagas and Indians?"
Noting that militancy was on the wane in the northeast except in Nagaland and Manipur, he said local people will have to be involved in socio-economic developmental programmes to solve problems in these two states. "We will have to create infrastructure and make arrangements for higher education and training for the youth in northeastern states. If this can be done, we can bring these states at par with the rest of the country within the next five to seven years," Aiyar said. According to him, 10 per cent of the Centre's total expenditure was currently allotted to the northeast though it comprised only eight per cent of country's area and its people made up four per cent of the nation's total population.
NAGA RECONCILIATION : By Yaruingam Awungshi Naga Nation
Pre-requisite step to Reconciliation: WILL
'Faculty by which a person decides what to do’
or Strong desire and intention
or intention or Determination
(Oxford Dictionary)
Will animates life. Will is the secret behind every success and achievements. If one has ardent will to do or achieve something in life, nothing can stop him or her. In other word, nothing is impossible for those who have will power. Some people say, I am willing but because of this or that I cannot do it' this is just an excuse. In reality, there is no real will inside such people; what they have is 'emotional feelings'. To carry out an impossible task in life 'will' is the pre-required condition. Men and women or nations who achieved impossible task and set record in history are those who have indomitable will power. Thus will is a magic to achieve impossible task in life. These days every Naga talks about ‘Reconciliation' and from every nook and corner pressure is being poured on our national factional leaders to reconcile. However, considering, the internally fragmented Naga society with many wounds and scars, it seems impossible to reconcile among us and build a strong vibrant Naga nation in our generation. But, to me, this is not impossible task but possible provided we have sincere will to do it. If we have ardent will to reconcile-no past wounds and scars- can deter us from shaking each others hands; we can discard our feelings of bitterness and pain in the dustbin, reconcile ourselves and begin a new chapter of Naga history. Hence, the first step to reconcile among the Naga should be to have ‘Sincere willingness’ on the part of belligerent parties. No amount of rhetoric speeches, press statements, or shouting will help us to reconcile unless we have sincere will in us. On the other hand, if we have 'will' nothing can foil on our way to reconciliation. Where should this 'Will' come from? Sincere 'will' power will come only when we realize the 'indispensability' of reconciliation toward achieving our paramount goal of nationhood. In other word, will should come, not out of emotion or short term opportunist interest, but from full realization of the need of it in view of long term consequences. To realize this need, followings are some points to ponder upon: • Division keeps Nagas away from achieving our dream of Nagalim (no matter how much and how long will we struggle) but if 'we unite' nothing on earth can stop us from achieving our most cherished dream "Nagalim' and (we will not be far away from entering that 'Promised Land) • Division is costly-it takes away many young precious lives and makes us shed tears in futile and but if we are united, every single life we lost, every single drop of blood & tear we shed' adds strength to our struggle toward achieving our goal. • Division gives great opportunity to our enemy to exploit us but unity gives us advantage to exploit them and advance our cause. • Division continues to keep our society poor, backward & nasty & filthy (Makes us keep on begging from New Delhi whom we eagerly want to go away) but unity will bring progress, prosperity and development in our land and enable us to live as freed & dignified nation on earth. • Division destroys our society but unity would build us up • Division keeps our land in gloom and darkness but unity will brighten our land. If we digest these few points, I am sure, an indominatble 'Will' will spring up from inside us that would sustain us till we accomplish the process of reconciliation. On the other hand, without having sincere will power 'reconciliation' will remain only as lip service and meaningless. Trying to reconcile among us without having honest 'will' will be like building a castle on a sand. Therefore, reconciliation to be sucessful, first of all, strong will be cultivated in our hearts. KUKNALIM Second step: cessation of hostility-next...

Conquest of tribulation and trial is the hallmark of success- Nagaland Post Opinion
Despite my personal human shortcomings and extreme challenges of various forms, I dedicated my entire youth in the service of NSCN since my teenage years and continued to do so even after the unfortunate split of NSCN in the year 1988, without fear or favor I rendered my best possible services with conviction that regardless of differences of opinion and factional ravages within Nagas struggling groups, Naga's goal of retaining it's sovereignty is to be pursued at any cost.
Discrepancies in the discharge of one's national obligation in the line of duty occurs and nobody is immune to such acts of natural failure for which procedural penalties are imposed.
However excess of punishments leading to the extent of capital punishment, physical impairment, drastic discharge without trial and impartial judgment has become routine affair upon numerous normally pardonable errant NSCN-IM cadres from other Naga tribes, whereas NSCN members from certain tribe were never taken into account or brought to justice despite gross violation of human rights, revolutionary ethos and NSCN manifestoes and Ahzas. The sacred cause, rights and aspirations of the Nagas had been our daily bread for which we endured every inhuman sufferings and untold hardships all through our struggle from the jungles of Burma to the street of Nagaland, we survived with pious sympathy and goodwill donation of the Nagas, extortion, kidnap, killing, threat and intimidation were alien to National workers of yesteryears.
Rescuing or saving Naga lives were the prerogative of every Naga revolutionary members, however, with the split and compartmentalization of Naga freedom fighters, executions, killings, tortures and terror tactics upon the Nagas by the Nagas themselves became so rampant and natural. It had always been my belief to preserve and protect even a single life of the Nagas, but to my utter disappointment hundreds of true Naga patriots were butchered simply because they happened to propagate healthy criticism against the platform. Riddled with guilty conscience of my inability to protest such evil factors at work, I voluntarily retired from NSCN-IM.
During my short span of common public life, I experienced a jolt of transformation, shedding light on extreme criminality and criminalization of Naga politics by NSCN-IM. Thus in my humble commitment to serve the cause of the Nagas I decided to renew my spirit of patriotism by joining NSCN(K), the platform that truly stands for righteous assertion and attainment of the national goal of the Nagas.
Captain Kivuxu Sumi, Former NSCN-IM, Member.
NSCN (I-M) blames rival for Friday’s clash Nagaland Post
DIMAPUR, FEB 10 (NPN): The NSCN (I-M) has said Friday's encounter between the two factions at Bungsang village under Medziphema sub-division took place when the Naga Army, NSCN (I-M), tried to "normalize the law and order situation" of the area after receiving reports of "evil designs perpetrated" by the rival faction. "To set the record straight, it was the Khaplangs that first ignited the flame of chaos in and around Bungsang area. The Khaplang cadres terrorized the villagers by raiding every house on the pretext of searching the NSCN," a press release issued by the MIP/NSCN (I-M) said. The supervisor, UT-1, NSCN (K) Akato Chophy had on Friday claimed that it was the rival members who had first attacked his men stationed at Bunsang.
The NSCN (I-M) also alleged that on one such occasion, NSCN (K) men had entered Medziphema village during the absence of the town command, NSCN (I-M), and "recklessly" put to flame properties of the house owner worth tens of thousands of rupees, including some important documents. "Passenger buses and other vehicles plying to and fro were frisked everyday causing untold miseries to the public who are left with no option but to curse their fate and suffered the brunt," the release added.
On Akato's statement that the NSCN (K) would never believe in NSCN (I-M) chairman Isak Chishi Swu's proclamation of forgiveness and reconciliation since he was just a "figurehead", the NSCN (I-M) said Swu's proclamation had no relation whatsoever with the Bungsang incident.
"However, the opportunist Khaplangs made an opportune out of this to forcibly instigate and misused the Proclamation of the Yaruiwo," the release said. Further, on allegation against NSCN (I-M) leader VS Atem that he had accepted a bribe of Rs. 20 million from former chief minister SC Jamir, the NSCN (I-M) said the "ridiculous" allegation had been clarified time and again by NSCN (I-M) and Jamir himself. "The NSCN/GPRN had never ever indulged in either bribery nor acted as money-lender to any individual, group or Government like the Khaplangs did with Ibobi-led Government of Manipur, but unfortunately fooled and cheated by the latter," the release added.
Stop bleeding at first- Nagaland Post Opinion
Nagaland has been bleeding for a period of 30 years like open wounds since the formation of the so-called NSCN in 1980. And it has not stopped, because Isak and Muivah refused to stop it. They don't want to say "we stop killing." Instead they say "apology, forgiveness, reconciliation" etc. and yet committing more killings. On 9th February 2007, they said "give a chance for peace, so that our wounds are healed" (quote: Nagaland Post 09/02/07). But on the same day they attacked K-camp at Bungsang village (Medziphema area). If the bleeding inflicted on the Nagas is not stopped, how can the wound be healed? If they do not stop attacking and killing their own Nagas, how can they talk about reconciliation?
First, Muivah and Isak should stop telling lies and giving false allegation against the Nagas. And it is a must to stop bleeding at first. Then only the process of healing of the wounds will follow. And the Nagas will have a chance to speak for reconciliation. Mark, Isak and Muivah are still telling lies to the Nagas that " they are fighting for God given freedom" (quote: Nagaland Post 09/02/07) to cover up how they had fallen from their stand for sovereignty to integrity, from integrity to affiliation. And now they have formed United Naga Democratic Front (UNDF) and stand for Manipur integrity. How funny is this? They forced the Southern Nagas to vote for their UNDF candidate. Even they abducted 10 (ten) leaders of Talul Village, Tangkhul Region on January 31, 2007 (NSCN-Day) because they refused to support their UNDF candidates. How can they conceal it by telling lie. It is written in the history by themselves. Who can erase it?
Maj. Wichanlungbo Naga Army, FGN.
CRPF chief calls Ukhrul ambush senseless The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Feb 10: The IGP, CRPF, Manipur and Nagaland, SK Jain, condemned yesterday`s attack on a CRPF team escorting polling personnel in Ukhrul district in which three CRPF men were killed as an act of senseless violence by the UGs.

The IG who spoke to mediapersons after offering floral tributes to the slain CRPF personnel today at RIMS morgue said the jawans who had gone on election duty in Phungyar were there only to maintain peace and ensure that elections are held in a free and fair manner.

Stating that the people of the state need to realise the true nature of yesterday`s incident, he said such attacks on personnel who were there to protect public property and rights, would only encourage disgust among the public. The UG group would be wrong in considering the attack a success for their revolutionary struggle, he said. Lauding the slain jawans for performing their assigned duty with dedication and ensuring peaceful elections, he said their service to the people will be immortalized in the history of the crpf. The function was also attended by DIG, CRPF, JS Gill, officers of the 26 Bn CRPF and families of the deceased. Constables Salam Santosh, 25, of Kakching Makha Leikai, Md Mahibul Islam, of Gelpana, Assam, and Md Taruf Ahmed Khan, 24, of Neka Manjahari village in Jammu and Kashmir were killed in the attack by cadres of the UNLF/MPA yesterday morning near Grihang village in Ukhrul district, while another CRPF constable, identified as Rajendra Yadav, was wounded in the attack Meanwhile the bodies of driver Phuritsabam Chaoba, 52, of Sangaithel Makha Leikai, who was also killed in the attack, along with that of constable Salam Santosh were handed over to their respective families today. The bodies of the other two slain CRPF men will be taken to their respective homes tomorrow by air. In the meantime, the body of Chanda Desa, of Karasom Phumlai village, is still lying at RIMS morgue as none of his family members have come to collect it.
NSCN (IM) clarifies on Bungsang clash The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, FEB 10 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) has ridiculed the claims and allegation made by Akato Chophy, ‘Supervisor UT-I’ of the NSCN (K) pertaining to the recent clash at Bungsang. Issuing a clarification note, the MIP of the NSCN (IM) alleged that it was the NSCN (K) that first ‘ignited the flame of chaos’ in and around Bungsang area.
“The Khaplang cadres terrorized the villagers by raiding every house in the pretext of searching the NSCN. On one such occasion, the Khaplang entered Medzephima village during the absence of NSCN town command and recklessly put to flame properties of the house owner worth tens of thousands including some important documents”, the MIP alleged and pointed out as to how passenger buses and other vehicles plying to and fro were frisked everyday causing untold miseries to the public who are left with no other option but to curse their fate and suffer the brunt.
Stating that the Naga army cannot remain a silent spectator to ‘such act of evil design’ perpetrated by the NSCN (K), the statement pointed out that it was compelled to ‘normalize the law and order situation’ of the areas during which the encounter took place between the two rival groups.
“It therefore has no relation whatsoever, with the Yaruiwo’s proclamation of ‘forgiveness and reconciliation’. However the opportunists Khaplangs made an opportune out of this to forcibly instigate and misused the proclamation of the Yaruiwo”, the NSCN (IM) stated.
Further, the NSCN (IM) termed as ridiculous, the repeated allegation on VS Atem accepting a bribe of Rs 20 Million from SC Jamir and maintained that the issue was clarified time and again by the NSCN (IM) as well as SC Jamir himself. “The NSCN/GPRN has never ever indulged in either bribery nor acted as money lender to any individual, group or government like the Khaplangs did with Ibobi led Government of Manipur but unfortunately fooled and cheated by the latter”, the NSCN (IM) stated.
FGN wants NSCN-IM to stop ‘lies’ The Morung Express
Dimapur, Feb 10 (MExN): The FGN wants the NSCN-IM Collective Leadership to ‘stop telling lies’ and desist from making expressions of stoppage to killings because even more are committed. Nagaland has been suffering for 30 years like an open wound since the formation of “the so-called NSCN” in 1980 and the flow of blood has not stopped because NSCN-IM Chairman Isak Swu and General Secretary Th. Muivah refuses to stop it, says ‘Maj’ Wichanlungbo, Naga Army of the FGN, in a note. “They don’t want to say ‘we stop killing’. Instead they say ‘apology’, ‘forgiveness’, ‘reconciliation’ etc., and yet commit more killings” the ‘Major’ lamented. First Isak and Muivah should ‘stop telling lies’ and stop leveling false allegations against the Nagas, then the process of healing of the wounds will follow and the Nagas will have a chance to speak for reconciliation, the note stated.
It cited an instance that on February 9, 2007, Isak and Swu said “give a chance for peace, so that our wounds are healed” but on the same day they attacked an NSCN-K camp at Bungsang village, Medziphema. Also the NSCN-IM has fallen from the demand for sovereignty “to integrity, from integrity to affiliation” and “now they have formed United Nagas democratic Front (UNDF) and stand for Manipur integrity”, the FGN stated. “They forced the southern Nagas to vote for their UNDF candidates. Even they abducted ten leaders of Talui village, Tangkhul region, on January 31, 2007 (NSCN day) because they refused to support their UNDF candidates” stated the note adding that the lies cannot be concealed or be erased.
MYANMAR : The real deal Nagarealm.com
High in the mountains of northwestern Myanmar, tribes of former headhunters dress themselves in tiger fangs and bear claws to celebrate their new year after the mid-January harvest. The members of the Naga tribes living in Myanmar are among the most isolated people in the world. But for a handful of intrepid travellers, their villages have become an alluring if unlikely tourist attraction.

The 100 000 Nagas in Myanmar have little contact with the outside world, even with the 1.2 million Nagas living across the border in India. Myanmar's government only opened up to the outside world two decades ago, and until a few years ago, this region was completely off-limits to foreigners because of rebel movements and lack of transportation. But over the last 10 years, the Nagas have begun using their new year ceremony to receive small groups of well-heeled tourists who are willing to pay hundreds of dollars a night to sleep in a dirt-floored hut for the chance to have an authentic tribal experience.

This year some 45 tourists, mostly from Western countries, made the trek to the village of Lahe where hundreds of Nagas donned their traditional finery for a two-day ceremony ringing in their new year. Known historically for their tattoos and their tradition of headhunting, the Naga warriors at the ceremony don't exactly look like welcoming hosts. For the Nagas, this is the only time of year when their 49 clans — which sometimes speak completely different languages — gather to celebrate together. Some younger Nagas have studied in India and use English to communicate between clans.

The warriors drape themselves in the fangs, claws and skins of their trophies, with headdresses made of fur and adorned with the long feathers of hornbills, while women and children in handmade red cloth parade nearby. They raise a pole at the centre of a field near a ceremonial hall built to hold a feast. At night they light a bonfire to give thanks for the just-ended harvest. The spectacle is like witnessing a National Geographic special, which tourism officials say is why travellers are willing to spend thousands of dollars to join the event.

Looking for the 'real thing' "We are definitely seeing travellers looking not just for new experiences, but for the real thing," said John Koldowski, a spokesperson for the Pacific-Asia Travel Association in Bangkok. "These people are really searching for something that hasn't been spoiled," he said, not just in Nagaland but in small communities around Asia. Truly remote locales like the Naga villages in Myanmar attract only a trickle of tourists, said Win Tin, managing director of the Journey Nature and Culture Exploration travel agency in Yangon.

His agency provides a trip from Yangon for about $1300 dollars to join the festival, including the journey by plane, boat and jeep to the ceremonial site.
The price tag is expensive because transportation and communication is so difficult, Win Tin said. Some of the money goes directly to the Nagas, which has helped them make small improvements in their living standards, he adds. "If we look overall, the Naga new year festival is not only good for their tribe, but also good as a source of business," he says.

"Their lifestyle has changed a little as more visitors go there. In the past they didn't wear clothes and they had little sanitation. Now they have more awareness of their health. "But I don't want this festival to become part of mass tourism, because I don't want it to have any negative impact on their tribe, nature and culture," he adds. Any travel in military-controlled Myanmar is controversial because democracy activists fear the tourist money will end up in the hands of the ruling generals. Myanmar's detained democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has urged foreigners not to visit her country until the military relinquishes power.

Not for the faint-hearted PATA's Koldowski says high costs are one way that countries can protect the culture of isolated communities like the Nagas, noting that the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan imposes steep visa fees for the same reason. This kind of journey is not for the faint-hearted. Getting to Lahe requires a flight to the town of Hkamti — the Naga's biggest settlement — then a three-hour trip upriver on a fishing boat, followed by a six-hour drive in a military four-by-four vehicle

Although Myanmar has signed ceasefire deals with many of the rebels over the last decade, insurgents still roam these mountains, including Naga fighters battling for their own state in neighbouring India. Indian authorities believe a dozen different separatists operate from rear bases in Myanmar, and have urged the military junta ruling the country to crack down on their activities along the 1600-kilometre border. Myanmar only allows tourists to visit two Naga villages because of safety concerns, and soldiers escort the travellers along the entire route, Win Tin says.

But foreign countries including the United States, Britain and Australia have urged their nationals to avoid travelling on the Indian side of the border as violence has flared in recent weeks. That didn't prompt any cancellations for the trip in Myanmar, Win Tin said, as visitors do come prepared for a tough trip to see something few outsiders have witnessed. "You can see theatre, dance and culture and so forth in the capital of any country, but this is one subgroup that is real," Koldowski says. [Khin Maung Win, iafrica]
A serious crisis Nagaland Post Editorial
It is clear that the plight of the students of private schools of Manipur's hill districts who are currently appearing examinations in Nagaland has turned into a human tragedy of sorts as they find themselves in a predicament that was not of their making as they were literally forced to boycott the Manipur Board and now compelled to come to Nagaland to appear examinations. The students are housed in makeshift buildings and live in pitiable conditions. In addition, they are psychologically traumatised due to the animosity arising out of the very kind of politics that had thrown them into an unenviable situation they find themselves now. The students are victims of politics, beginning from those who precipitated the crisis by making it mandatory to include the Meitei Mayak script and later, those who took it as an opportunity to force a political agenda but erred in believing that a "yes" by Nagaland would automatically lead to affiliation of the private schools under the Nagaland Board of School Education(NBSE).As commented earlier, affiliation is a state subject and no government could supersede the constitutional writ of any other government over its demarcated jurisdiction. However, the DAN government in Nagaland continued to give the impression that it could effect affiliation despite the union human resource development ministry making it clear that both the state governments of Manipur and Nagaland have to sort out the matter between themselves. After landing itself in a soup, the DAN government went farther when it made the NBSE admit all the students to schools in Nagaland in order to enable them to sit for the exams without so much as selection test. It is pertinent to note that the students from the hill districts of Manipur have been following the syllabus under MBSE and had hardly a two to three months to cover the entire NBSE syllabus. It is also pertinent to note that a few thousand regular students in Nagaland are not appearing the NBSE exams either because they failed the selection tests on various grounds such as low marks or lack of attendance etc. These points are certain to cause deep anguish but currently, the hill students and in particular, the parents feel more about their plight. There is a need to ensure that the victimised students are able to complete the exams without hindrance and later, a workable solution to satisfy all sections in consultation with various political parties, education department and voluntary organisations.
Army officer killed in accidental grenade explosion in Manipur The Morung Express
Imphal, Feb 10 (Agencies): An army officer was killed when a grenade exploded accidentally in Chandel district of Manipur this morning, official sources said.
A Lt.Col of 14th Maha Regiment was killed on the spot when the grenade, which he was checking, exploded accidentally at around 7.30 a.m. in Molcham area of the district, they said, adding his name could not be ascertained.
Army and Assam Rifles personnel have opened posts at Molcham and surrounding areas since they launched ‘Operation Khengjoi’ on December 5 last to flush out insurgents from the district, they said.
There had been frequent gunbattle between security forces and insurgents of Manipur People’s Army (MPA), armed wing of United National Liberation Front (UNLF), since the operation was launched, they said. Meanwhile, the police have identified the February 9 ambushed victims. The victims belonging to CRPF had been identified as S. Santosh (28) of Kakching Makha Leikei, (constanble-army no.035153782), Md. Mohibal Islam (26) of Golbura Assam (army no.041655732) and Md. Tariff Ahamad Khan (24) of Nagamanjuri J&K. All the slain jawans, who came to Manipur on election duty, were serving at the 26 CRPF posted at Jammu and Kasmir. The polling officer is identified as K. Ngachansa Kasomwoshi of Kharasom village under Ukrul district and other victim, a driver of Sericulture department has been identified as Ph.Chaoba Singh (52) of Sangaithel Makha leikei while the injured person had been identified as Rajendra yadav (30) of 26 CRPF under army no.015021337. Presently, he is undergoing medical treatment at Regional Institute of medical Sciences (RIMS).
Bodies of 9 IRB jawans arrive Staff Reporter Nagaland Post
DIMAPUR, FEB 10 (NPN): The mortal remains of the three jawans of 9th Nagaland Armed Police (IRB), who were killed in a landmine blast triggered by Maoist guerrillas in Chhattisgarh Thursday, were brought to Nagaland Saturday after a civic reception at Numaligarh, Asom. The civic reception was also attended by Nagaland Home Minister Thenucho.
The body of ABSI Apong Chang was taken to his village in Tuensang directly from Numilgarh while those of assistant commandant Suratho Pochury and naik Wati Ao were received at Purana Bazaar junction, Dimapur and Chumukedima respectively Saturday night.The bodies of both Suratho and Wati were later sent to their respective native villages. Earlier, the mortal remains of the three 9th NAP (IRB) personnel were flown in to Guwahati before their journey by road up to Numaligarh and Nagaland
The three slain IRB personnel were part of the foot patrolling party of the 'D' Coy carrying out an operation in Bhairamgarh in Dantewada district, some 60 kilometers away from the headquarter of the IRB, Bursar, Chhattisgarh. On detecting some grenades, the patrol party moved into check them, which exploded killing the three and injuring many, including jawans of the Chhattisgarh police. It may be mentioned that the 'Daring Ninth', dubbed by the people of the State, has lost more than a dozen jawans since its deployment at Bursar, Chhattisgarh.
Courage of Conviction Editorial The Morung Express
Despite mounting threats from different quarters including from an armed underground faction, the Naga students from the four hill districts of Manipur have shown great courage of conviction to come and sit for the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) examination conducted under the aegis of the Nagaland Board of Secondary Education (NBSE). This is not only a historic step but also symbolizes the inherent desire of the Naga people to be integrated into a single body politic. Unification of contiguous Naga inhabited areas as acknowledged even in the 16 Point Agreement is a common objective of every Naga political organization whether under-ground or over-ground. No one can however deny that the affiliation of Naga students from Manipur to the Nagaland Board is a matter of intense debate and there have been opinions voiced against such a move. That however does not mean that innocent students should be targeted with threats to their lives.
The Naga Students Federation (NSF), which has become the main target of criticism ever since it shouldered the responsibility, has already clarified on the affiliation movement wherein, it clearly emphasizes about the biased education policy and imposition of Meitei Mayek (Meitei script) upon the Naga students by Meitei-dominated Manipur government. The NSF has also stated that affiliations of these private schools to NBSE in no way will encroach the job opportunities and scholarships meant for students within the present state of Nagaland because every state government has its own job reservation policy based on bona fide citizenship of the concern state and scholarship is a union government’s policy directly funded by Union Government’s exchequer.
However, since the NBSE affiliation issue has become a major debating point and rightly so as it concerns both the future and present wellbeing of students both in Nagaland and also those private schools (students) seeking affiliation from the four hill district of Manipur, another assessment can be undertaken once the present examination gets over. For the immediate though, there is no reason as to why those who are willing to come and write the exams should be turned away.
The peaceful conduct of examination until now is a welcome sign and due credit must go to the district and police officials of Kohima and Dimapur for taking the necessary steps in maintaining peaceful atmosphere. The active participation of the public and their visible presence at the exam centres has also helped in removing the fear psychosis in the minds of the students. Appreciation must also be reserved for the underground group in question for restraining itself despite its earlier warnings. This in itself goes to show that no matter what their argument is, they respect public sentiment and will not do anything that will go against the wishes of the people who aspire to live in peace, harmony and with dignity.
For the innocent students who are as much caught up in the vortex of history and politics, the main concern should be to enable them to live a life of dignity and in the hope that they will be worthy torch bearers of the future generation. And education is a tool that will provide them this much needed opportunity. In fact, to deny them this right will go against the fundamental value of freedom which Nagas are themselves aspiring for, over the last sixty years.
Police in communally sensitive states caught napping Press Trust of India
New Delhi The pattern of communal violence in different parts of the country last year shows that the state police has been caught napping as most incidents occurred at places already marked "sensitive" and "hyper-sensitive". Though the overall communal sitaution has been described as "satisfactory", a high-level internal security review meeting noted with concern that "90 per cent of the cases reported during 2006 occurred at places classified by the Union Home Ministry as sensitive and hyper-sensitive.
Sources in the MHA said the statistics bring to the fore the fact the advisories issued by the security establishment were not taken seriously. A bill on communal violence, which is before Parliament, has a chapter on special powers of the Central Government to deal with communal incidents in certain cases. It says that if a State Government has failed to take appropriate action to prevent and control communal violence, the Centre may declare any area within a State as "communally disturbed area" and carry out deployment of armed forces on a request from that State. Besides the issue of communal violence, the situation in the northeast also came under the scanner and concern was expressed over the militant build up in Assam, Nagaland and Manipur. (More) The outlawed ULFA, which had killed 70 migrant labourers in parts of Upper Assam in January, had threatened to boycott the Games but subsequently withdrew its boycott call. Sources in the MHA said though the results of the anti-insurgency operation by the Unified Command in Assam has produced good results, the political turmoil in neighbouring Bangladesh could have a reflection in the State. They said the situation in Nagaland was not that good because of intermittent ethnic clashes between different Naga tribes. The support base of the two major militant outfits in the state -- NSCN (Isaac-Muivah) and NSCN (Khaplang) -- are along tribal lines and rift between them has widened in the recent past. Intelligence reports also say that militant outfits could cause disturbances in poll-bound Manipur if the state threw up a hung Assembly, which has been the case most of the time. In view of these concerns, the MHA is likely to issue advisories to these states to sensitise them in time, the sources said.
No arrest yet in murder of 7 persons
Clueless in Kiphire
‘Mob hacked victims to death with Daos’
Morung Express News
Dimapur | February 10
The gruesome murder of seven persons of a family in Kiphire district on February 8 last (Refer The Morung Express edition of February 10) was a vigilante justice meted out as a ‘reprisal’ against one of the deceased persons desiring to marry the sister of his wife. The Kiphire administration and police are still investigating into the murder case but if latest developments are anything to be considered, they are in a dilemma how to proceed with the case – the seven persons were murdered by a “mob” from Pungro village, sources said.
No arrests have been made so far in this case, sources from the administration added. Reliable sources however reported Deputy Commissioner of Kiphire as suggesting that “outside” law-enforcing agencies be brought in to handle the case. Unless this is done, the case – owing to its complexity – would go unsolved and justice undelivered.
According to latest details, one of the seven victims was shot with a gun while the rest were hacked to death with ‘Daos’ (Naga machetes). The dead bodies, which were kept in the NAP outpost in Pungro till yesterday, have been removed for burial. It was informed that three were buried in Pungro village while the rest left for Zangor village today around 11 am.
Although understood to be under control, the situation in both Zangor village and Pungro village are reported to very tense following the killing. Following preliminary investigations to ascertain the motive behind the gruesome incident, a seeming tale of infidelity emerged: it is asserted that one of the deceased, the Head GB of Zangor village, desired to marry the sister of his (present) wife. This led to extreme tension between the respective families of the GB on one side and his wife’s on the other. Thus the matter was scheduled to be sorted out in a local court. However, a “mob” of people hailing from Pungro village decided to take the law in their hands and dragged the victims out from the ‘court’ and murdered them in a place between Zangor and Pungro. (Another version maintained that the victims were “kidnapped” from the ‘court.’).
Names of the deceased could not be made available till filing of this news report. The seven dead includes a retired government teacher and a PWD employee, besides the Head GB of Zangor village. They are all from a single family.
Centre warns 3 N-E states to be on high alert
The Centre has decided to warn three northeastern states to be on high alert following reports that militant groups could resort to violence. The decision was taken at a high-level meeting on Thursday at North Block, which was chaired by home secretary V K Duggal.
The meet ing was attended by officials of the CRPF, Intelligence Bureau and Military Intelligence. It undertook a comprehensive review of law and order in the North-East, Naxalite-infested states, J&K and on hinterland security.
Sources said that there was a possibility of the ULFA triggering blasts as the National Games draw to a close on February 19. The ULFA, which had earlier issued a call for boycott of the games, later decided to reverse its decision. In Nagaland, said sources, there was a possibility of ethnic clashes between different Naga tribes. The support base of the two major militant outfits in the state-NSCN(IM) and NSCN(K)-are along tribal lines. The Centre suspects trouble since the rift between the two groups has widened in the past one year.
The Centre will shortly issue advisories to these states-including Manipur - where the last phase of the Assembly polls will end on February 23. According to intelligence reports, militant outfits could cause disturbances if there is a fractured verdict and a hung Assembly, which has been the case with the state since the last decade.
Regarding Jammu and Kashmir, officials said although infiltration has been less last year as compared to 2005, new routes have opened up in the Poonch-Rajouri sector. The required measures would be taken soon and necessary forces would also be deployed, said sources.
Officials also expressed concern over the threat of jihadi outfits to create bases in the hinterland. States would also be briefed on the need to remain alert.
UNLF claims ambush IMPHAL, Feb 10 Sangai Express
Claiming responsibility of the attack on CRPF at a place in between Grihang and Ningchou under Ukhrul district at around 9:30 am yesterday, the proscribed UNLF informed that the attack was undertaken by small fighting patrol of MPA's 242 Bn.
A statement issued by senior Publicity Officer of UNLF, Ksh Yoiheiba disclosed that three CRPF personnel were killed in the attack besides critically injuring another one. Moreover one INSAS rifle, one SLR, one SLR-LMG, three grenades and Motorola wireless set belonging to the deceased CRPF personnel were recovered by the MPA cadres. Confirming that one civilian poll official and a driver, allegedly used forcibly in the election of India were also killed in the attack, the outfit clarified that the attack was launched against the rearmost Gypsy carrying CRPF personnel thinking that there was no civilian in the vehicle. The attack was deliberately undertaken against the rearmost vehicle after all the vehicles carrying poll officials have passed off, it added. Compounded by the cloudy weather in the area, the MPA cadres could not observe that there was any civilian among the CRPF personnel in the vehicle. UNLF/MPA conveyed deep regret and condolence over the civilians of the land killed in the attack.
NE Industrial policy soon: Aiyar Assam Tribune
KOLKATA, Feb 10 – The Centre was in the process of formulating the North East Industrial Policy (NEIP) 2007, which would be announced soon, Minister for Development of North East Region (DoNER) Mani Shankar Aiyar said today, reports PTI. Speaking on ‘North East: Strategy for Sustained Growth’ here, Aiyar said the NEIP 1997 would come to an end by March 31, 2007.

He said, while Sikkim was excluded in the existing policy, it would now be included. Aiyar said the new policy would continue with the exemption of taxes, capital investment and interest subsidy, and a comprehensive insurance scheme. The minister, who was addressing a seminar organised by Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), said quantum of investments in the north-eastern States were poor due to lack of adequate infrastructure and poor human resources.
Aiyar said till 2004, the north eastern states received investments of Rs 1067 crore. In the new policy, the Centre would provide funds to develop physical infrastructure like roads and power.
During the 11th Five Year Plan, the Centre would give funds amounting to Rs 50,000 crore for development of road infrastructure in north eastern states.
Bodoland Accord Day From Our Correspondent Assam Tribune
KADAMTOLA (Kokrajhar), Feb 10 – The Bodoland State will be a reality in the near future with support and cooperation of all communities of BTC area, if we stand by unity and peace” said Hagrama Mohilary on the occasion of 5th Bodoland Accord Day at BTC Secretariat Complex near Kadamtola in Kokrajhar today amidst a huge gathering. Addressing the gathering, Mohilary has recalled the contributions of all who supported the decades-long Bodoland movement irrespective of caste creed including the non-Bodo organisations and AASU in particular, compelling both the State and Central government sign the historic Bodo Accord on February 10, 2003 last, he said.
At the same time, recalling the dream of the ‘Father of Bodos’ late Upendra Nath Brahma, Mohilary expressed his confidence of achieving Bodoland statehood through a democratic or a political movement for which the priority-basis infrastructure development in the BTC area are in progress and are totally protected and such developments shall pave way for complete statehood, provided peace and unity among the people remains intact, he added.

He has also mentioned that after delimitation there will be 14 MLA seats, 2 MP (LS)
1 MP (RS) to take up democratic and political lead for Bodoland state with the support of the people of this area. Promila Rani Brahma, Minister of State WPT & BC & Agriculture, attending as chief guest, appealed to the people to extend cooperation with chief of BTC. SK Bwiswimuthiary, MP (LS) in his speech said the recently surrendered armed militants are to be properly rehabilitated.
Unified Command and General Election By Donn Morgan Sangai Express article
With the first phase of General Election in Manipur ending with a whimpering bang, the next probable show for volatile second phase is not visibly on the card. When it comes to any kind of election in Manipur, there are perfect nursery for new sense of hatred, distrust, socio-political enmity, higher rate of bribery and renewal of armed conflicts. Of course, these things do happened in other part of India, but they have been strictly on political grounds. But here, the bloody flavours are and were that of ethnical, social, militarism and direct involvement of regular UG militant outfits. In other states, its all about gangsterism, caste divide, thuggism and money matters. Hence, the overall security threat in Manipur is way higher than any other parts of the country, similar to that of Jammu and Kashmir logistically. The State police and paramilitary's effectiveness has always been on the lower side, so, the need for all-out deployment of the Army/AR, CRPF and BSF to directly assist the civil administration. For the first time, this joint deployment in Manipur at the ongoing general election security system needs to be lauded for altogether three different reasons: sense of professional trust amongst state and union armed forces, sense of security for the hard done ordinary citizens for the presence of state law enforcement agencies personnel amongst the Army/AR and other central paramilitary forces while on combat duty and, of course, the securing of perimeter by the Army/AR, CRPF, BSF on all polling stations. Prior to this election, only the State law enforcement agencies manned the polling booths, a quarter of them protected unarmed, while the central armed forces were deployed as mobile and QRTs (quick reaction teams), only few hyper sensitive polling stations were covered by the central paramilitary section or platoon.
The good work started to salvage and reform the image of the Army and AR, to be more public friendly, by GOC, 57th Mtn Div and IGAR (S), along with their PROs, have now paid dividends. Ironically, Col Goswami is posted at Jammu whereas Col Mathur is in charge of the coveted post of PRO, PIB/DW at Srinagar, Kashmir. Now that the wheel of Unified Command seems to have been put on first gear with the decisive visit of Mrs Sonia Gandhi, the Lady Empress, to see it that the boycott enforced upon O Ibobi's Congress I candidates by the CHIKIMS UG outfits be carpet-bombed, both the Army/AR commanders have to 'suspend' the SoOPs until the election ends in the hill areas. Thereafter, the combined operations (Com ops) be put on full throttle in the valley areas, which would surely be made more permanent than the visit of Lady Empress from Delhi. Despite the rocky 'ceasefire' between the Govt of India and CHIKIMS UG outfits (which is not acknowledged by the State Govt), the election battle order for the Army/AR, CRPF and BSF concerning any armed hill-based UG outfits is to deal with extreme prejudice - shoot at sight, period, since there is no official ground rules for the suspension of military operations (SoOPs) on this type of emergency issue. This is a socio-militico-political tragedy, a real bloody 'love-hate' deceitful diplomacy. Thanks to the 2007 General Election, we all know the unholy intention of the O Ibobi's administration. A last ditch effort to stay in power with 'peace' in the hill areas, cost of blood notwithstanding and 'forced security alliance' for safety. Not so long ago, the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, flatly refused to recognise the fleeing CHIKIMS refugees as 'homeless citizens of Manipur' during the month long flushing out military operations at the Sajik Tampak's UG outfits safe haven. He ruthlessly refused to grant the poor victims and the weary homeless an official refugee status which would enable him to release the CM's Emergency funds and relocate the hapless victims of CIOPs with food and material assistance just because he was not directly inform about the pre-emptive strike by the 3rd Corps' 44th Mtn Brigade.
Moreover, the militants in question were valley-based UG outfits, not CHIKIMs militants. The secret military campaign was sent in to counter the threat posed by the MPLF militants who boycotted the MP election. As a matter of fact, apart from the sanctioning of raising a state police commando battalion and 2 more IRB Bns (Jan 2004), the CM had specifically demanded the full deployment of two regular Army Bns and 200 (sic) companies of central paramilitary force in Imphal valley area in December 2003. Instead of a 210- Coys, just a composite Brigade, now 44th Mtn Bde with just 5 or 6 companies from 3 Army Bns were sent in to suppress the armed boycotting of the MP election, thereby saving the skin of O Ibobi Govt. So, why the anger? After all, his earnest prayer had been swiftly answered, like the successful 1st Phase voting in the Hill areas A/Cs on 8th Feb 2007 which was directly looked after by the central paramilitary forces with full tactical and logistical assistance from the regular Army/AR deployed in Manipur for CI OPs; the state law enforcement agencies being 'relieved' for the General election in hill areas for the first time. It's quite remarkable that a voting in the insurgency infested hill areas had ended without any armed encounter nor any bloodshed with the highest voting percentage in average. Such an unexpectedly peaceful and high voting turn outs seldom happened in the recent past. So, the 'effectiveness' of the army and central paramilitary forces in over-seeing and manning polling stations is clearly visible. Despite the customarily expected volatile and bloody votings in Manipur, the peacefulness and undisturbed election on 8th Feb 2007 is quite incredible since UG militants usually called the shots, like ambush, armed snatching, booth-capturing etc. On the other hand, all election related bloody incidents or armed attacks took placed exclusively in the valley areas, even in Greater Imphal areas where the presence of law enforcement agencies is very much dominant. Now, it would be interesting to see whether the 2nd phase and 3rd phase of pollings would end peacefully like that of the hill areas. With the presence of Unified Command, it would also be the Army/AR and Central paramilitary personnel to secure and man/guard all the polling stations in the 2nd and 3rd phase votings in other hill and valley areas to avert volatile polling incidents and armed attacks. Of course, they are under the supervision of the State Govt and MPHq. As long as it brings peace, security and fair votings, the unprecedented exclusive security coverage provided by the Central armed forces units, assisting the state law enforcement agencies, is highly appreciable and tactically desirable. Now that the State Govt sought the help of the Central Govt for overall polling security despite the refusal to recognise the ceasefire between the GOI and CHIKIMS UG outfits is a last refuge marriage of two minds in one body. A lesson has to be learnt by the State Govt that it takes two to tango. Hence, the need for unified command and sincere understanding between the state and Central SF personnel with the general public.
Imphal today Sangai Express Editorial
Imphal desperately needs some life infusing dose of drugs in the form of city planning or else doomsday will not be far off. Imphal is no doubt the capital of the State and its commercial hub as well, but the city has no life, no character, no distinguishing feature to fit the bill of the capital of a State populated by over 24 lakh people. It is not only a question of the dirt and garbage that we see piled up all over the place or the increasing pollution of our water sources and the clogged drains and nullahs. Rather it is that lack of life and character of Imphal that we find extremely worrying and disturbing too. As a capital of a State we expect Imphal to be throbbing with life, life not only in the sense of a huge population or teeming millions but a life that positively distinguishes it from other State capitals of the country. The Khuman Lampak Sports complex is there alright to signify the sporting prowess of the State, but increasingly it has become clear that the sportspersons who have been bringing laurels to the State are not from Imphal but from other parts of the State. Nothing wrong with this, but as the capital of the State where the infrastructure is in a much better shape, we expect some sort of a sports spirit. However it is more than apparent that sports is no longer able to draw the attention of the youth from Imphal. Each capital city should have some defining characteristics to set it apart from the other places, but other than the dirt and the non-functional civic bodies, there is nothing to characterise the capital of the State. Khwairamband bazar is indeed a unique place but the tragedy is instead of adding to the characteristics and charm of Imphal, the market place has only added to the filth and squalor that we see all around. A city or a town is best known by its residents and a look at Imphal will also reflect the mentality of the Imphalites. The capital city is a good example of the callousness of the people, the lack of civic sense amongst the people and the utter disregard for the interest of others. How else does one explain the numerous stray cattle and animals living on the streets of Imphal and surviving on the piles of garbage and waste ? The use of gas horns inside the city precinct, over taking from the left, disregarding all traffic norms, men relieving themselves in the gallis of the commercial centres of the capital at Thangal bazar, Paona bazar or any other place has become something of an accepted social practice in the capital city and this is what is Imphal today. Manipur University is today a Central University, but how far has this university been able to live up to its status as the highest seat of learning. How many of the intellectuals have actually been able to come out with thought provoking and practical stand on many of the issues confronting this State ? We raise this question today, because as the capital of the State we expect some sort of an intellectual revolution which can come only through meaningful discourses and dialogues. The Government and its agencies and more importantly the people of Imphal have the responsibility to infuse new life and make Imphal a living city with a soul.
Cong using Games for self-promotion Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Feb 10 – The ruling Congress seems to have gone overboard in turning the National Games into a publicity gimmick for political purposes. So much so that the exercise has left a bad taste in the mouth of the common people, especially the sports-lovers. With posters of Congress leaders – right from local MLAs to the Chief Minister to Congress supremo Sonia Gandhi – flooding the roads, highways and Games venues of the city and its outskirts, one is tempted to feel that some kind of big political event is going on, and not the National Games. Pictures of leaders apart, Congress party flags have sprouted on the roads leading to the sports venues. While no one is denying the Congress government in the State the credit for smooth holding of the Games, the first-ever in Asom, in the face of stiff challenges, this mindless obsession with political publicity has harmed the spirit of the Games, as sports and games are held to be above the narrow confines of politics. Amidst the craze for publicity, what takes the cake is a huge poster of Dispur MLA Akan Bora, placed right at the entrance of the Veterinary College playground at Khanapara, the venue of the equestrian events. People feel that such unabashed propaganda has relegated the spirit of the Games to the background and rendered the Games a personal affair of the Congress, with politics occupying the centre-stage. “Sports and politics do not make a heady cocktail. It is downright ridiculous to have such a big picture of the local MLA at the venue of a National Games event. Such absurd publicity blitzkrieg is in stark contrast with the spirit of the Games, and it would only make the ruling Congress a laughing stock before all, especially the players and officials coming from outside the State,” a local resident said, adding that the dignity of the Games had suffered due to such misdemeanour.

As one takes the roads to the venues, one is greeted by party flags and posters of Congress leaders of all rank and file. They are there on both sides of the roads as well as along the road dividers. Even the National Highway-37, which leads to a couple of major Games venues, is not free from the repugnant political air. It is apparent that this publicity stunt has not gone down well with the city residents. “Such brazen indulgence in self-promotion for political gains going on along with the country’s biggest sporting extravaganza is totally uncalled for, and it only serves to lower the image of the State Government, the Congress leaders in particular. The National Games is a sacred occasion, and everybody should honour that sanctity,” another citizen remarked, adding that the State Government had left a bad precedent by its thoughtless publicity gimmicks.

The undue politicization of the Games has found a place in the guidebook that was released a few days’ back. The guidebook has no mention of the highest organizing committee of the Games, while those compiling it went out their way to accommodate a number of irrelevant committees and sub-committees besides the governing body of the State Secretariat with most office-bearers being politicians and bureaucrats. Ironically, the name of the Assam Olympic Association is conspicuous by its absence in the book.


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