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02/18/2007: "Ind. candidate kidnapped; NSCN (IM) claims responsibility The Morung Express"

Ind. candidate kidnapped; NSCN (IM) claims responsibility The Morung Express
IMPHAL, FEB 17 (AGENCIES): Suspected Naga militants kidnapped an independent candidate for the ongoing assembly elections in Manipur and destroyed his house and vehicle in Tamenglong district after overpowering his security personnel, official sources said today.
Over 50 armed militants stormed the house of Khangthuanang Panmei, the independent candidate, overpowered the security guards and beat up his supporters before kidnapping him, the sources said. They also snatched away eight self-loading rifles, several rounds of ammunition and two light machine guns from the security guards, the sources said, before destroying the candidate’s house and vehicle. Earlier, candidates were directed to withdraw from the fray by the United Naga Council in support of their nominees. Chief Minister, O.Ibobi Singh and election observers have rushed to Tamenglong by a special helicopter.
An aerial search was being made by army helicopters to locate the abducted candidate. The injured supporters were admitted to hospital. Reports said social organisations took out processions and submitted memoranda to the Deputy Commissioner demanding to know how Panmei could be kidnapped when security was intensified in Tamenglong for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit tomorrow.
Social organisations have been organising rallies in the district in the past few days demanding a free and fair poll. Over 4,000 women took out a rally on February 15 at Khoupu in Nungba assembly constituency in the district demanding that the UNC did not interfere in the election process. Meanwhile, the NSCN-IM has claimed responsibility in kidnapping Khangthuanang Panmei, an Independent candidate who is in the fray from Tamenglong Assembly Constituency in the ensuing Assembly Election of Manipur.

Giving reasons for the abduction, NSCN-IM MIP Deputy Kilonser Kraibo Chawang informed NNN tonight over phone that Khangthuanang Panmei had been creating law and order problems in the Tamenglong Headquarters for some time now. Kraibo Chawang alleged that a gang organised by Khangthuanang Panmei had completely damaged a vehicle belonged to the Zeliangrong Union (ZU).The NSCN-IM Kilonser further alleged that the life of some high dignitaries of the GPRN/NSCN-IM and the Zeliangrong Region had been attempted by the gang at the behest of Khangthuanang Panmei.
The NSCN stated that he was arrested for his criminal activities and had nothing to do with election, adding that he will be released if he apologizes and repent for his past criminal activities. The NSCN-IM leader further alleged that the Independent candidate had also organised an anti-people rally in Tamenglong which was also against the Naga issue. The election camp of UNC’s consensus candidate from Tamei A/C Awangbow had been attacked by the gang organised by Khangthuanang Panmei. Kraibo Chawang also lamented that numerous criminal activities had been carried out by Khangthuanang and his supporters but the district administration intentionally closed its eyes and allowed the “criminals to go scot-free who were taking the law into their hands”.
“So things have gone too far and such that the NSCN/GPRN has to act so as to keep the social atmosphere in order and hence the arrest of Khangthuanang Panmei,” reasons Kraibo Chawang.
The NSCN-IM leader further alleged that all the activities of the supporters of Khangthuanang and the candidate himself are criminal in nature. Kraibo Chawang then warned that anyone who tries to create uneasy atmosphere would be dealt with sternly.
Candidate released says DC Imphal, Feb.17 (NNN): The Deputy Commissioner of Tamenglong has said that Independent candidate from Tamenglong A/C Khangthuanang has been released by his abductors but he quickly added that the candidate was yet to reach the district headquarters. When NNN contacted DC Athui Pamei, the IAS officer said that he was informed by his higher authority about the release of the candidate. However, the Deputy Commissioner added that he was also trying to get more information on the development.
NSCN (K) confirms Myanmar army action; ready for battle Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI Battle-wary NSCN (Khaplang) today said they were preparing for a drawn battle against Myanmar Army that has left over 10 of cadres dead in recent clashes. Confirming that the Army action was on, Kilonser Education, A.Z.Jami told this newspaper over telephone from somewhere in Nagaland, that they expect the current round of offensive to continue till the onset of the rainy season. The first attack was in January,” he said.
What is significant is that outlawed ULFA, which was also caught in the crossfire, has started shifting bases from Sagain Division in Chin Stat. Jami, however, declined to divulge further. “We don’t live together so I can’t say where they have shifted,” he said, replying to questions. “They have hide outs in Myanmar but we never shared our camps with them,” he claimed. Stating that attacks came in waves, the NSCN (K) leader, who is also the convener of the Kilonser alleged that the Myanmar Army was attacking them with weapons and ammo supplied by the Government of India. The militant outfit and New Delhi has a ceasefire pact in place though political dialogue is get underway.
Jami said they have retaliated and there have been casualties on both sides. He revealed that they have lost some of their outposts and about 10 of their cadres besides sustaining casualties. “As for the current status, he said there was no action going on right away, but they have placed their cadres in maximum alert. We will not counter attack and exercising maximum restraint,” he claimed. Reports with agencies, however, tell a different story. The Naga rebels were reported to have maximum damages, with their general headquarters having been blown up by the Army.
4 NNC members killed OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, Feb. 17: Four activists of the Naga National Council (NNC) were killed in an ambush by suspected members of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) last night near Pfutsero town, 70 km from here in Phek district. Sources said at least four suspected NSCN (I-M) activists waylaid and fired upon the NNC team, which had more than 10 members, at a spot 4 km from Pfutsero town. The bodies of the three Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) members, all in their late twenties or early thirties, were later kept at Pfutsero police station. The bodies are yet to be identified. No weapons were recovered, police said. The NSCN (Khaplang), an ally of the NNC, disclosed that none of its own cadre was involved or slain in the ambush.
Policemen and local villagers were searching for the missing NNC activists till late this afternoon. The Pfutsero area is a stronghold of the NSCN (I-M). The NNC, supported by the NSCN (K), has been trying to oust the rival group from this area and Phek district.
Residents of Phek town met yesterday to pass a resolution. The meeting resolved that irrespective of affinity, political affiliation and personal feelings, the residents would remain loyal to the political aspirations of the Nagas. On Tuesday, members of the public forced nearly 150 NSCN (I-M) activists to leave. Afterwards, a combined team of the NSCN (K) and NNC activists from Phek town vandalised the office and residence of the deputy commissioner and the residence of the superintendent of police in protest against the Neiphiu Rio government’s policies. The chairperson of Phek Town Council yesterday apologised for the vandalism and verbal abuse of the deputy commissioner and superintendent of police.
Chishi seeks blessing from Sumis The Morung Express
Former Chief Minister KL Chishi (Right) speaks at Chekiye village on February 16 where he sought blessing and support from members of the Sumi community. (Left) A section of the gathering.
DIMAPUR, FEB 17 (MExN): In accordance with the Sumi customary law and traditional practice, a programme was organized in the residence of former Chief Minister K. L. Chishi at Chekiye village on February 16, 2007 where he sought blessing and support from members of Sumi community present to work for the welfare of Sumis and the Naga people in general.
Shikuto Zalipu, president of the Western Sumi Kukami Hoho who chaired the function introduced the Chishi family to the congregation, which comprised of members of Western Sumi Hoho, Western Sumi Kukami Hoho, other frontal organizations and elders.
Speaking on the occasion K. L. Chishi dwelt on the contribution he had rendered for setting villages in Western Sumi when he was government advocate. He appealed to the members present to accept and regard him and his family as members of Western Sumi.
He made it clear that the programme was not organized with political intention nor to make declaration of his candidature for election but to get acquainted with the public and leaders of Western Sumi. Chishi gave away red blankets to 372 GBs (Chieftains) who attended the programme and donated Rs. 51,000 each to WSH and WSKH besides giving Rs. 11,000 each to Aqahuto, Aghunaqa, Khaghaboto, Niuland, Nihokhu, Sakipheto, Laghilato, Dimapur Sumi Phughi and Kuhuboto as fuel expenses.
Shikuto Zalipu said Chishi’s role in Western Sumi would definitely uplift the community in particular and Nagas in general. Others who spoke on the occasion include Hokiye Yepthomi, president, Western Sumi Hoho; H.K. Zhimomi, assembly speaker, Naga Hoho; former ministers Khukivi Awomi and Ihezhe Zhimomi and Kakugha Zhimomi, former candidate Dimapur-I A/C.
NSCN (IM) says rival betraying Naga cause The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, FEB 17 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) came out strongly against their rival NSCN (K) saying that Khaplang group has betrayed the Naga cause by confining their proclaimed struggle to the state of India-Nagaland falling under the parameters of the Indian Constitution. Adding that NSCN/GPRN does not recognize the Indian imposed state boundaries or their constitution.
A press note issued by MIP NSCN (IM) stated that they are struggling for emancipation of more than 47 Naga tribes spread across the borders of Myanmar and India and that they do not accept arbitrarily imposed artificial boundaries within Nagalim. Naga people were free people since time immemorial and the states of Manipur, Arunachal or Nagaland are a recent creations arbitrarily imposed by India, which the Nagas does not recognize, it stated. It questioned the Khaplangs’ definition of their support for Naga Integration - “sensible? If so, why are they against the Southern Nagas? Are the Khaplangs bankrupt in politics and policies which are leading them to victimize the innocents? There also seems to be incongruity and differences between Gen. Kholi, SS Khaplang and Kitovi in their manifestos since they claim that they are fighting for the state-hood of India-Nagaland, their Chairman Khaplang, a Burmese Naga is from across the international border in Myanmar. Does Kholi know about this?”
“Let us be more sensible and come out of our egoistic cocoons and admit the facts and accept one another rather than waging bad blood amongst ourselves. We shall all try to contribute to give peace a chance so that our wounds would heal…..let us all try to heal ourselves with love and reconciliation and healthily strive on ahead with the rest of the world”, it stated.
Candidate abducted later released, weapons looted, house ransacked at Tamenglong Ramkung Pamei Kangla on Line

TAMENGLONG, Feb 17: Khangthonang Panmei, an independent candidate for the forthcoming 9th Manipur Assembly election in the 53-Tamenglong (ST) Assembly constituency was kidnapped by armed men after overpowering his security personnel in the wee hours of February 17. The candidate was subsequently released by his kidnappers in the outskirts of Tamei sub-division this evening around 7.30 pm. Meanwhile, the deputy commissioner of Tamenglong has said that Khangthonang Panmei has been released by his abductors but quickly added that the candidate was yet to reach the district headquarters.

DC Athui Pamei, the IAS officer said that he was informed by his higher authorities about the release of the candidate. However, the deputy commissioner added that he was also trying to get more detailed information on the development. In the meantime, the NSCN(IM) claimed responsibility for the kidnapping of Khangthonang Panmei.

The armed men took away all the weapons belonging to the security personnel from the 5th Manipur Rifles, damaged seven vehicles which were being used for his electioneering work, burnt one motor bike and ransacked his house at Namlalong, Tamenglong-2. The weapons included eight SLRs, three .303 rifles and one carbine.

A case under sections 446, 447, 353, 325, 365, 384, 400 and 34 of the IPC and 25 (1-B) Arms Act has been registered, said a source from Tamenglong police station. However, police said that there was no report of weapons belonging to the 5th MR being taken away by the miscreants.

The incident took place at around 2 am on February 17. Prior to the incident, the armed men met with around 22 volunteers of Pou Khangthonang Panmei, the candidate in question at Model village, Tamenglong-3 at around 1 am and beat up the volunteers, according to one injured who is also hospitalized at Tamenglong district hospital.

Three of the injured were hospitalized though the total number of persons who were attended to by the hospital was recorded as 22. Most of the injured were assaulted by blunt objects and gun butts in their thighs and backs, according to the medical officer who attended to the injured.

The volunteers were on their way to confront certain persons who allegedly tried to attack one of their co-workers, when they met the armed men, said an injured. He further said that they were made to stand in line and were questioned as to who was responsible for bashing up their (the armed men) leader recently near here, raising a suspicion that the armed men were from one Naga underground group operating in the region.
"Then they randomly started beating us from behind," said an injured lying in the hospital bed adding `they also set fire to one of our motor bikes. After this, the armed men took our vehicles - two Maruti Gypsys and drove to the candidate`s house at Tamenglong-2 where the guards seeing our vehicles opened the gate for them only to be overpowered and looted of their weapons.

The house of the candidate was then ransacked and seven vehicles including gypsys, Di- 407, Shaktiman and jeeps destroyed`. The armed men also reportedly forced their way inside the house, broke the furniture and took away three licensed SBBL guns and a .22 handgun belonging to the candidate. Later, they took away the candidate himself who had slipped into the adjoining toilet, said his wife Guilungliu Panmei.

Denouncing the act of the armed men, supporters of Khangthonang Panmei numbering about 1000 took out a rally from his residence up to the office of the district magistrate, who is also the district election officer-cum-Returning Officer of Tamenglong district at 12 noon.

The rallyist holding placards submitted a memorandum to the deputy commissioner of Tamenglong asking for peaceful conduct of the elections and demanding immediate safe and sound release of their leader. The memo was signed by MG. Guiliangpou, election agent of Khangthonang Panmei. The incident occurred even as the district is witnessing unprecedented tight security ahead of the Prime minister Dr. Manmohan Singh`s visit slated for February 18.

Giving reasons for the abduction, NSCN(IM) MIP deputy kilonser Kraibo Chawang informed NNN tonight over phone that Khangthuanang Panmei had been creating law and order problems in the Tamenglong headquarters for some time now. Kraibo Chawang alleged that a gang organised by Panmei had completely damaged a vehicle belonged to the Zeliangrong Union (ZU).

The NSCN(IM) kilonser further alleged that attempts were made on the life of some high dignataries of the GPRN/NSCN(IM) and the Zeliangrong Region by the gang at the behest of Panmei. The NSCN-IM leader further alleged that the independent candidate had also organised an anti-people rally in Tamenglong which was also against the Naga issue. The election camp of UNC`s consensus candidate from Tamei A/C Awangbow had also been attacked by the gang, Kraibo Chawang said adding that numerous criminal activities had been carried out by Khangthuanang and his supporters but the district administration intentionally closed its eyes and allowed the criminals to go scot-free. The NSCN/GPRN had to act to keep the social atmosphere in order and hence the arrest of Panmei, reasoned Kraibo Chawang. Kraibo Chawang then warned that anyone who tries to create uneasy atmosphere would be dealt with sternly.
NSCN (IM) claims abduction Newmai News Network
Imphal, Feb 17: The NSCN-IM has claimed responsibility for the abduction of Khangthuanang Panmei, an Independent candidate in the fray from Tamenglong Assembly Constituency in the ensuing Assembly Election of Manipur. However, Deputy Commissioner of Tamenglong said Khangthuanang has been released by his abductors but hastened to add that the candidate was yet to reach the district headquarters. When NNN contacted DC Athui Pamei, the IAS officer said that he was informed by his higher authority about the release of the candidate.the Deputy Commissioner added that he was also trying to get more details on the development.
On the otherhand, furnishing reasons for the abduction, NSCN-IM MIP Deputy Kilonser Kraibo Chawang informed that Khangthuanang had been creating law and order problems in Tamenglong headquarters for some time now. Chawang alleged that a gang organised by Khang-thuanang Panmei had completely damaged a vehicle be- longing to the Zeliangrong Union (ZU) in addition to life attempts upon some high dignitaries of GPRN/NSCN-IM and Zeliangrong Region by the gang at the behest of Khangthuanang. The NSCN-IM leader further alleged that the Independent candidate had also organised an anti-people rally in Tamenglong which was also against the Naga issue. While iterating that the abduction has no connection with election matters, he asserted that Khangthuanang would be released only after an apology on the his alleged criminal activities. The election camp of UNC’s consensus candidate from Tamei A/C Awangbow was attacked by the said gang, said Chawang who also lamented that numerous criminal activities had been carried out by Khangthua-nang and his supporters but the district administration intentionally remained silent thereby allowing the ‘criminals to go scot-free who are taking law into their hands’.
“So things have become too much and such that the NSCN/GPRN has to act to keep the social atmosphere in order and hence the arrest of Khangthuanang Panmei,” reasoned Kraibo Chawang.
He further alleged that all activities of the supporters of Khangthuanang and the candidate himself are criminal in nature. Kraibo Chawang cautioned that anyone fomenting trouble and creating uneasy atmosphere would be dealt with sternly. Meanwhile, the outfit has also refuted reports carried in some daily newspapers that a brother of MLA Z Mangaibou along with two other supporters of the MLA had been abducted by the NSCN-IM and confined in its custody.
Clarifying the reports, Cease-fire Monitoring Cell member MK Winning said that Kikhonbou alias Khang-sabou, a brother of MLA Z Mangaibou, a Congress candidate for Tamei A/C, Tadoubou and Takiubou, both Congress party workers and supporters of the MLA were “stopped and asked” some questions by the NSCN-IM but “we did not abduct nor put them into our custody as reported in some newspapers”. MK Winning also said that the NSCN-IM did not harass nor had its cadres committed any wrong doing against the three Congress workers. “It has become a matter of necessity that the NSCN needed to question the three supporters of Z. Mangaibou so we did,” claimed the NSCN-IM leader.
Naga talks to resume in March Naga Nation
NEW DELHI, FEB 16: The government has decided to resume Naga peace talks with visiting leaders of the NSCN (IM) Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah in the first week of the coming month. “The government was waiting for the Manipur Assembly elections to be over before resuming talks with the Naga leaders. Now since the results of the elections would be announced on February 27, we have decided to continue the talks in the first week of March,” a government source said. At present both the Naga leaders are having their sojourn in Nagaland and as the talks had not been possible before the Manipur elections, the government, through its interlocutor M Padmanabhaia, continued to be in touch with them, the source said. MExNNSCN
(K) refutes alleged impersonator The Morung Express
Dimapur, Feb 17 (MExN): Responding to the write up carried in this news daily dated February 13 issue by one Vikato Zhimomi supposedly belonging to the Sumi region of the NSCN (IM), the NSCN (K) has stated that the writer, if he professes to be a man, should give his proper name and designation. “Writing such a threatening statement on bogus name is an act of cowardice and mockery”, stated Khekivi Sumi, Office Assistant, NSCN (K) in a refutation. “Tangkhul names are like Hopson Muivah, Jobson Vashume, Gentleson Shimray, Cruelson Shimrah, Eliza Saiza, Daniel Shimrang etc. and there is no Tangkhul by the name Vikato Zhimomi on this beautiful earth”, the NSCN (K) made known.
Alleging that Tangkhuls usually stay in the land of the Nagas and enjoying their wealth, the NSCN (K) charged that “Tangkhuls usually kill their hosts and benefactors without any compunction”. Further alleging that killing is their inherent culture inherited from the “people of Manipur valley”, that is why the Nagas rightfully issued the quit notice”. “No one should get confused. If anything happens at anytime to any members of the families of N. Kitovi Zhimomi, Kughalu Mulatonu, AZ Jami and Wangtin Naga it is by Tangkhuls only and not by anyone”, the NSCN (K) stated.
“Vikato Zhimomi Tangkhul is talking about students of other communities studying in different places. Yes you are right, many students are studying in different places. But they only pursue their studies peacefully. But the Tangkhuls, to which strata of the society they belong, they are terrorists and accomplices of the terrorists. Therefore, the difference is poles apart”, the statement pointed out.
Taking up the point raised by the writer that it was SS Khaplang and N Kitovi Zhimomi who were frustrated, the NSCN (K) countered that and questioned that “if Isak and Th Muivah are not frustrated, why their politics have been turned to Indian election and school affiliation? Why they are desperately trying to meet Gen Khole C-in-C of Naga army instead of meeting NSCN political leaders?” Why they are trying to create distrust and misunderstanding among the NSCN leaders?”
“The last point, Vikato Tangkhul is talking about is international recognition of the group. Recognition, don’t worry, the world recognized your group as terrorists organizations and is going to be cornered by the world very soon. Responsible organization. Yes, responsible in all the killings and terrorist activities in Nagaland and its negihbouring areas”, the NSCN (K) stated.
NSCN (IM) refutes abduction reports Newmai News Network
Imphal The NSCN-IM has refuted to the reports carried in some daily newspapers stating that a brother of MLA Z.Mangaibou along with two other supporters of the MLA had been abducted by the outfit and put in the NSCN-IM custody. Clarifying the reports, Cease-fire Monitoring Cell member MK Winning said that Kikhonbou alias Khangsabou, a brother of MLA Z.Mangaibou, a Congress party candidate from Tamei A/C, Tadoubou and Takiubou, both Congress party workers and supporters of MLA Z.Mangaibou were stopped by the NSCN-IM to ask some questions And they did not abduct nor put them into their custody as reported in some newspapers”. MK Winning also said that the NSCN-IM did not harass nor had its cadres committed bad thing upon the three Congress party workers. “It was a matter of necessity that compelled the NSCN to question the three supporters of Z.Mangaibou,” claimed the NSCN-IM leader.
Slain FGN men identified Kuknalim.com
KOHIMA, Feb 17:: The bullet-riddled bodies of the three FGN members who were killed in an ambush laid by suspected NSCN (I-M) men near Pfutsero on Friday evening have been identified, police said...
The deceased were Pte.Zavikho of Sakraba village, Pte Krosoto of Ketsapo village and Pte Kuzoyi of Phek village. The bodies were later handed over to relatives. Meanwhile, a search operation carried out Saturday by several groups in and around the ambush site for more casualties yielded no results. The NSCN (Khaplang), an ally of the NNC, disclosed that none of its own cadre was involved or slain in the ambush. Policemen and local villagers were searching for the missing NNC activists till late this afternoon.
The Pfutsero area is a stronghold of the NSCN (I-M). The NNC, supported by the NSCN (K), has been trying to oust the rival group from this area and Phek district.

Residents of Phek town met yesterday to pass a resolution. The meeting resolved that irrespective of affinity, political affiliation and personal feelings, the residents would remain loyal to the political aspirations of the Nagas. On Tuesday, members of the public forced nearly 150 NSCN (I-M) activists to leave. Afterwards, a combined team of the NSCN (K) and NNC activists from Phek town vandalised the office and residence of the deputy commissioner and the residence of the superintendent of police in protest against the Neiphiu Rio government’s policies.

The chairperson of Phek Town Council yesterday apologised for the vandalism and verbal abuse of the deputy commissioner and superintendent of police. (NPN/ The Telegraph)
‘DAN govt lacks policy and direction’ The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, FEB 17 (MExN): 17-Chizami Assembly Constituency Congress Committee in its executive meeting on February 15 noted with deep concern the prevailing volatile situation in Phek. The members expressed deep concern for the students appearing their HSLC and HSSLC examinations, which the committee said is being held under immense tension of threat and insecurity.
The CACCC expressed their understanding over the plight of field administrative officers of Phek who are put in “precarious position due to the lack of policy and direction of the DAN Government”. The press secretary Nesahu Swuro said that because of this the officers have been sandwiched between the irate public and the underground factions. The CACCC also reminded the DAN government of its “false promises” to be more regular in paying the salary of W/C employees stating that the then Congress government used to release salaries quarterly. The house also questioned how the DAN government “could remain so senseless to the plight of the poor and downtrodden citizens of the State.”
Give peace a chance- Nagaland Post Opninion
The culmination of adverse situation at Phek owing to the callous demonstration of anti-peace elements needs some food for thought. The Nagas have been beguiled in internal strife entrenched on tribal lines as well as egoistic sturdiness, which meaninglessly have been retarding our national aspirations and deviating us away from our initial goals to that of self humiliating remorse.
Following the proclamation of the Yaruiwo for 'Peace and Reconciliation' the NSCN/GPRN maintained maximum restraint from all offensive operations, unless attacked upon. Consonant to the Yaruiwo's peace proclamation and also heeding to the Chakhesang People's Organization (CPO's) appeal, to refrain from all armed confrontations in and around Phek, the Naga army strictly maintained in abiding by the peace call. But to our utter dismay, the Khaplang outfit and NNC/FGN combined forces attacked the Naga army while observing Sunday services beginning from 11 February in contravention of the CPO's peace call. This unfortunate aggressive incident by the forces of the Khaplang outfit and NNC/FGN had led to the disenchantment of the Chakhesang public as well as rendered the innocent students to suffer especially during the ongoing examinations. Nagas should know by now that we will not gain anything for infighting amongst ourselves, but all negative confrontations will only lead to a chain of vengeance and vendettas: endowing us and generations with deep injuries.
Whatever differences may exist and may continue to exist, it is to be realized that there is no benefit in engaging in feudal wars amongst ourselves. Fratricidal confrontations or mud slinging media hype reveals to be our penultimate nemesis. Is not it inappropriate in justifying ourselves for acts committed in the name of our nationalism against our brotherhood? Our political objectives are one as well as our blood, culture and ethnic identity as a people. Whether we like it or not, neither can our identities be changed nor can our ethnic history be altered as God had created us the way we were meant to be. We are bound to accept and embrace each other some day or the other. Today we have to look beyond the short term realizations with perspectives of our political aspirations and ethnic identity's integrity firmly established, so that we are not swayed by divisive rudiments.
Public leaders should also not manipulate the Naga situation for short term political leverage nor cultivate isms or inclination. They should harness their wisdom with futuristic vision so that we are rescued from all division-isms and our political aspirations salvaged. Nagas should not let the status-quo of arbitrarily imposed boundaries and temporary economic lures hijack our protracted political issue, but defeat all detrimental elements with proud and judicious principles well associated with our unique cultural and customary identity of a people called the Nagas.
Similar to the maxim 'to err is human' we have committed mistakes in the past and may continue to make mistakes now and then. But unless we give peace a chance and continue to justify our selves by pointing fingers or blaming one another, peace will remain illusive. Why do not we give peace a chance by extending peaceful gestures in forgiveness rather than groping for justifications against it? Either good or bad, we are to collectively bear, so it is for us to choose what may be best for us than opting for self inflicting choices.
Issued by, MIP/GPRN, NSCN (IM).
They failed to quote the Bible- Nagaland Post Opinion
After Isak and Th. Muivah returned home they furiously reprimanded the church leaders through a lengthy letter, because church leaders warned them not to use 'Nagaland for Christ' for the killing or in vain. In their letter they have quoted many Bible Verses, but they failed to quote the Bible verses from where they have the right to level false allegation against the innocent Nagas and to kill them without the fear of God. Also they failed to refer the Bible verse that they can say the killings and telling lies are not an act of Satan. And from which Bible verses they have the right to use 'Nagaland for Christ' in vain or tell lies that the Nagas had accepted Indian constitution? It was the fact that as God loves the Nagas he is protecting the Nagas from the hands of aggressor and thus the Nagas are proud as an independent nation.
After 1980 what had happened and what is happening in Nagaland is by-product of the new formation of Isak-Muivah's socialist organization. And therefore, they have no one to blame or be angry for the consequences of their own wrong actions. Unless they admit their mistake, they will surely face the wrath of the Naga people like what recently happened in Phek town. God says "You shall not use Nagaland for Christ in vain. You should ask His forgiveness for taking His name in vain, lest His curse will be upon you forever", through Imsu jamir, Mokokchung on November 22, 1998. Rev. Peter Youngren (US based church leader) also said "the NSCN is terribly misusing 'Nagaland for Christ', its method counter Christ. Christian has nothing to do with violence".
God says, "I have chosen the Naga people by myself. Before the return of Jesus Christ, it is my will that the Nagas are to be free, for I have given their kingdom", through Naga army chaplain Kipfelhou on August 13' 1974. God also says "the conflict between the Nagas and the Indian rulers is a spiritual conflict, and India can never defeat the Nagas, because their power come from the Lord God", through Dessan Tagore (an Indian) in December 1982. Therefore, if Isak and Th. Muivah said the NNC/FGN was defeated by Indian through signing an accord in 1975, then the word of God would have been untrue. Even if the Nagas formed a new political organization after the Accord, it would become only a mere secessionist group. But God never failed to lead and protect the Nagas under the leadership of the Naga National Council (NNC) since its inception.
The Nagas therefore never reduce to a secessionist group in the running history of our nation. And the Nagas believe that through God's guidance and protection the Nagas will surely achieve their goal. And by good faith, the Nagas are defending their sovereignty at all cost till date. And they will never co-operate with the renegade leaders like Isak and Muivah who are misleading the Nagas to demand for integration or greater autonomy from India because the Nagas cannot sell out God-given sovereignty
Maj. Wichanlungbo Chaplain, Naga army, FGN
UNC names consensus candidates By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Feb 17: The UNC has confirmed that K Sebastian Sanglung and Francis Huten would be its ‘consensus candidates’ in Nungba A/C and Chandel A/C.
Dismissing any room for confusion in the selection, the UNC said decision to this effect was taken in consultation with the Naga people. Some observers have been speculating that Gan-gmumei Kamei and L Ben- jamin would be its ‘consensus candidates’ in these two Assembly segments. Besides Sanglung and Huten, the other three ‘consensus candidates’ for the third phase of polling are Samuel Jendai in Tameng-long A/C, Morung Makun-ga in Tengnoupal A/C and N Awangbow in Tamei A/C. UNC president Paul said that there should be no further debate on the matter as all the intending candidates had already entered into an understanding that they would not make any complaint or objection when their candidatures are not recommended for UNC's ‘consensus candidates’. Reacting to the recent rally at Tamenglong and the rallyists' allegation that UNC has been intimidating and interfering in the electoral process, he clarified that there was no case of intimidation.
He informed that the UNC leaders are campaigning in full gear for the en- suing elections in Tameng-long and Chandel districts. UNC's general secretary Ajang Longmai and speaker Samson have gone to Ta-menglong to join poll campaign there. To a query, Paul asserted that the scheduled visit of Prime Minister Dr Manmo-han Singh to address a rally is a clear indicator that the Congress party is shaky in these constituencies. Though the UNC is confident of victory for at least four of its nominees in the just concluded first phase polling, Paul reteirated that elected UNC nominees would not join in the formation of the next State Government.
He conveyed the UNC's desire for the successful candidates to sit in the opposition.
Drowning incidents return to haunt tourists at Colva beach
HERALD REPORTER
MARGAO, FEB 17 - Drowning deaths at the famous Colva beach has come to haunt the tourists again, with the beach recording a total of eight deaths so far this year.
A day after tragedy hit a group of youngsters from Mumbai, Saturday saw a young tourist from Ahmedabad, Ganesh Shinde (30) meeting a watery grave at Colva.
Police said the deceased along with his colleagues had ventured for a swim this evening, when the strong undercurrents pulled him inside. Shinde’s body has been preserved at Hospicio mortuary. This is the fourth drowning incident reported at the Colva beach so far this years, claiming the lives of eight youngsters, including six young students.
In fact, Colva hit the headlines on the first day of the New Year when tragedy struck a group of students from Nagaland. Three students drowned off the beach on January 1.
This incident was followed by another tragedy when three young students from Chicmangalore met a watery grave at the beach. Police officials admitted that deaths due to drowning has become a routine phenomenon, but said that the concerned authorities should step in and find a solution by earmarking certain safe swimming zones.
Manipur may better its own turnout record TIMES NEWS NETWORK ]
K Sarojkumar Sharma Times of India

IMPHAL: At the ongoing National Games in Guwahati, Manipur has been leading the medal tally right from the word go. Back home, the trouble-torn state is close to either matching or bettering its own record of 90% poll turnout that it created in the 2002 assembly elections.

Despite inclement weather and insurgency, the tiny north-eastern state recorded almost 90% polling in the first two legs of the three-phase assembly elections held on February 8 and 14 respectively. The final round is slated for February 23.

"We're having such a wonderful turnout because of our long democratic tradition. We started having elections much ahead of the rest of India," CPI state council secretary B Sharma said. Manipuris elected their first assembly when the state was still a separate principality in 1948, four years before India's first general elections.

"Our people have kept their faith in democracy intact. It's highly praiseworthy," Sharma, whose party rules the state along with Congress, said. The voters have won kudos from election officials as well. Chief electoral officer R R Rashmi said, "The massive turnout is a good indicator of the people's democratic mindset. We must all welcome this."

The ruling Congress said extensive campaigning also played a key role in bringing voters to polling stations. "The people's response was extraordinary because of the campaigning. The voters also proved their high consciousness," Manipur Congress media cell chief Seram Mangi said. Congress president Sonia Gandhi, BJP chief Rajnath Singh and Janata Dal (S) leader H D Deve Gowda were among the top leaders who took part in campaigning in Manipur.

Voters too are enthusiastic. "I've never missed a single poll since I attained the voting age. On Wednesday, though it was raining, I trekked quite a distance to reach the polling station and cast my vote," said Nepram Menjor (55) from Thongju in Imphal.

But neither politicians nor government officials were ready to comment on allegations of rigging from the tribal-dominated hill districts, which have 20 seats in the 60-member assembly.

"The elections are basically fought on two highly emotive issues, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act and Naga integration," said an analyst. In the Manipur valley, Meities want withdrawal of the Act and oppose the NSCN(I-M)'s demand for amalgamation of the state's Naga-dominated areas with its proposed Nagalim (Greater Nagaland). The Nagas in the hills want merger of their region with Nagalim. There are about 11 militant organisations active in the state.

Candidate abducted OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Imphal, Feb. 17: Suspected NSCN (I-M) cadre today abducted an Independent candidate from Tamenglong, a day ahead of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to campaign in the constituency. The abducted candidate, Khangthuknang Panmei, had ignored a diktat by the United Naga Council (UNC) which the NSCN (I-M) is backing, to withdraw from the poll race. The UNC is backing 11 candidates in the state and had asked all rivals to withdraw from the poll fray in support of its nominees.
Breaching blanket security arrangements for Singh’s visit to the campaign site, a stone’s throw from the abduction spot, suspected NSCN (I-M) cadre, numbering around 20 to 30 and armed with sophisticated weapons, swooped down on Panmei’s house at Namlalong in ward two around 2 am. The Naga militants overpowered 12 Manipur Rifles personnel and snatched eight SLRs, three 303 rifles and a carbine from the guards before ransacking his house. They also damaged seven cars and a motorcycle parked at Panmei’s residence.
All the 12 security personnel were suspended and a fresh batch of Manipur Rifles personnel deployed at Panmei’s residence. Panmei’s wife Lu Guilungliu lodged a complaint with police but did not mention the snatching of weapons from the guards. Chief electoral officer R.R. Rashmi said security for candidates would be reviewed. Superintendent of police Gainairung Kabui said efforts were on to rescue Panmei. Supporters of Panmei, today took out a rally from his residence and assembled in front of the office of district magistrate. They submitted a memorandum demanding that their leader be rescued.
Our special correspondent adds from New Delhi: “The abduction has nothing to do with elections,” insisted an NSCN (I-M) leader. “He had attacked a senior kilonser (minister) of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN). How can we overlook something that goes against the interests of the people?” he said, adding that the candidate would “be released on strict conditions.”


Cordiality not reciprocated: ULFA The Morung express
GUWAHATI, FEB 17 (NET): Banned outfit, ULFA on Friday stated the cordiality shown by ULFA for the resolution of Indo-Assam political conflict by withdrawing the boycott call on the 33rd national games was not reciprocated by the government.
Large-scale operations were launched by security forces in the jungles of Arunchal Pradesh and Upper Assam to flush out ULFA militants after the violent incidents in the state in which 60 Hindi speaking people were killed in January this year.
Reports stated that military junta of Myanmar has now fired salvo on the Northeastern militant outfits NSCN (Khaplang) faction and ULFA. Both the outfits have camps there.
ULFA in its mouthpiece Freedom stated, “Indian government’s latest move to track ULFA is nothing but a planned arithmetic of genocide. People in upper Assam are fleeing away from their homes in the face of attack by jawans of Bihar Regiment and 6th Jammu & Kashmir Regiment. Assam is being transformed into a land of mass slaughter. Horrible, barbaric, inhuman and inexplicable torture is being inflicted in the name of tracking ULFA by the army,” it stated
It further said, “Army continued with their so-called operation aimed at liquidating the rank and file of ULFA vis-Ã -vis its sympathizer civilians. Combing operations are continuing in Dumduma, Talpathar, Nagaon, Majgaon, Dighlipathar, Nakathalguri,” it stated.
The ULFA mouthpiece said that ULFA called off ban on celebration of National Games showing respect to the appeal of legendary sports personalities and sport-loving people of Assam, not because of any love for Indian colonial rulers. While it withdrew the boycott, ULFA received the dead body of cadre Biplob Sangmai as a reward for regards shown to boost sports in Assam. The outfit alleged that hundreds of innocent masses were arrested and many of them were killed in fake encounters.
Sources said that Naga outfit, NSCN (Khaplang) faction and ULFA have suffered huge set-backs in Myanmar. The operation has led to killing of over 100 cadres belonging to the two militant outfits. The general headquarters of the Khaplang faction located inside Myanmar. ULFA had over 300 cadres in the camps.
He informed that police in Arunchal Pradesh have been alerted to maintain vigil as the crackdown in Myanmar may result in ULFA cadres sneaking in Arunachal.
Already the Prime minister, Manmohan Singh during his visit to Assam in January said that Myanmar government will cooperate with India in dealing with militants. The Union home secretary, V.K Duggal had secretary level talks with counterpart in Myanmar recently.
ULFA separatist group wants plebiscite
New Delhi, Feb 17, (IRNA): India’s northeast separatist group, United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) has not entered into any parleys with the Central government and wants a plebiscite under international supervision on Assam’s sovereignty, its ‘commander-in-chief’ Paresh Barua has said.
Barua said in the latest edition of the banned group’s mouthpiece Freedom that the ULFA wanted a ‘plebiscite and not a referendum under international supervision’, said a PTI report here today.
He said there no negotiation were being conducted with the government.
“The only pre-condition that we hold now is (that the) restoration of Assam’s sovereignty should be on the agenda for talks specifically.
We will not negotiate on the issue of Assam’s sovereign independence,” he said.
Referring to the withdrawal of the ULFA’s call to boycott of the National Games hosted by Assam, Barua said, “A section is misleading the people of the state, saying that the gesture indicated ULFA’s weakness.“This section failed to appreciate our goodwill gesture and also did not raise their voice against anti-ULFA operations by occupational forces,” he alleged.

ULFA ready for plebiscite The Nagaland Post
Guwahati, Feb 17 (UNI): The ULFA today denied that there was any Track-II negotiation with the Centre and insisted that only sovereignty would be discussed in future negotiation.
''ULFA has not entered into any kind of negotiation with the Government of India. Our only specific pre-condition is that the issue of restoration of Assom's sovereignty should be on the agenda for talks,'' ULFA chief Paresh Baruah said, in a statement here. Regarding referendum or plebiscite, the ULFA leader said that ''in principle, the ULFA is ready for a plebiscite and not referendum, under international supervision.'' '' ULFA called off the ban on celebration of National Games by showing respect to the appeal of legendary sports personalities and sport-loving people of Asom, not because of any love for Indian colonial rulers,'' he reiterated.
''However, a section of people have tried to give animpression to the masses that this gesture is ULFA's weakness. Since the day ULFA banned the National Games the flatterers of India condemned ULFA.
They left no stone unturned to derive public opinion for holding the Games by stating it as a great event to uphold Asom's dignity''he said, alleging that to make the National Games a great success they ''created an awesome situation in Asom attacking Hindi-speaking people and increasing immensely the number of security forces to build up strong anti-ULFA campaign in Asom. The plan to choose Asom as a host for the Games is to strengthen the logic that the state is an indispensable part of India.''
'' The puppet government of Asom was trapped in this crafty plan and did not hesitate to victimise the masses of Asom. ULFA received the dead body of Biplob Sangmai as a reward for the regard shown to boost sports in Asom'' said Paresh Barua, himself a footballer of repute who represented the state once said. The ULFA's decision of withdrawing the boycott call was welcomed by all, irrespective of party and organizations. Notable sportsmen, sports-loving masses, various politicians, political parties, conscious citizens, and social organisations called it a 'time- honoured' decision and put forward various explanation and appealed to ULFA to take such steps of ''public interest'' in future. Meanwhile, the intelligence agencies are apprehending serious outbreak of violence from the closing ceremony of the National Games on Sunday next.
Fillip for Moreh trade By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Feb 17: The Singapore-based Asian Clearing Unit (ACU) is informed to have approved ‘euro’ instead of letter of credit (LoC) system for border trade between India and Myanmar.
According to informed source, a daylong deliberation session held at Kolkata on February 15 discussed at length on improving trade volume between the two neighbouring countries with the prospect of expanding the Moreh-Tamu route figuring prominently in the meeting.
The session held under the theme ‘India-Myanmar Trade & Commerce: Challenges & Prospects’ was organised by Indian Chamber of Commerce in association with Indo-Myanmar Chamber of Commerce & Industries wherein Consul General U soe Paing of Consulate General of Union of Myanmar, Kolkata inaugurating the programme as the chief guest. The programme attended by representatives of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, major Indian firms and myanmarese delegates speakers strongly advocated lifting of restriction on all trade items.
In addition to the Myanmar delegates pitching for promotion of cross-border tourism, the deliberation also centred around improving infrastructures for land route transportation of commercial goods through the Moreh-Tamu section rather than the current practice of depend- ing on the arduous and expensive sea routes. On opting for ‘euro’ currency for the border trade, the source said Myanmar Government had been opposing reliance on the ‘dollar’ consequently leading to favour-ing the European Union currency. Apart from noting recent developments in the infrastructure sector between India and Myanmar, the meet also stressed on improving banking facilities in the Moreh-Tamu section of the neighbouring countries.