03/01/2007: "Muivah Delhi-bound ------ Nagarealm.com"

Muivah Delhi-bound Nagarealm.com

Dimapur, FEB28 [NPN] : A six-member delegation of the NSCN (I-M) led by its General Secretary Th. Muivah will leave for New Delhi on March 1 to hold talks with the Government of India over the current political negotiations. According to reliable sources, the team will include senior leaders Rh. Raising, Tongmeth Wangnao, V. Tuccu, Samsong Jajo and Alezo Venuh.

The sources also said that Michael Van Waldt Van Prag of The Netherlands and his wife, who are currently in Nagaland, will also accompany the NSCN (I-M) leaders. Earlier, it was speculated that Michael Van Waldt Van Prag, who represents the KREDDA, would mediate in the talks as third party. NSCN (I-M) Chairman Isak Chishi Swu, who is also currently in Nagaland, will not travel to Delhi, the sources said.

Both Swu and Muivah have been in Nagaland since December and camped at Hebron, head quarters of the NSCN(I-M). Several Naga civil societies including some church leaders had held meetings with both Muivah and Isak Swu in Dimapur. Union Minister Oscar Fernadez, who heads the Group of Ministers (GoM) engaged in the parleys with the NSCN (I-M), had indicated earlier that the peace talks could resume only after Assembly elections in Manipur.

Factional fights Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 28: Factional clashes among various Naga underground factions continue unabated in Nagaland, reports NNN from Dimapur. One cadre of the NSCN (K) was killed while another two cadres of the same outfit were injured on Tuesday in Zunheboto of Nagaland.

Reports said that the clashes started after the NSCN-K cadres attacked NSCN (I-M) cadres in a village in Zunheboto district. The cadre of the NSCN-K who was killed in yesterday's incident has been identified as one Uewre Thong of Phisari village.
Reports said that the clashes started in the early morning and lasted for about two hours adding that the clashes stopped only after the public leaders of the area intervened.
Nagas unite to honor brave son Karaiba Chawang The Morung Express
The indispensability of God, need to forgive and forget and reconciliation amongst the warring groups of Naga national workers was the clear message send out today at the unveiling ceremony of the traditional monolith erected in commemoration of the first FGN Kedahge (president), Late Khrisanisa Seyie, which was attended by almost all tribal hohos, including Tangkhul hohos, UNC and students representatives from Manipur, NGOs, civil societies and students’ bodies. Each speaker outpoured their un-quenching thirst on the need to do soul-searching on the complex internal Naga crisis, which is threatening the very concept of Naga political struggle and the exigent need of coming together as they spoke without mincing words during the gathering.

Rev VK Nuh, who unveiled the monolith as chief guest appealed to the gathering to come together as a nation and work for national reconciliation to forgive and to forget for the sake of those who laid down their lives for the nation.
“I believe that all of us today are aware that, the whole history of struggle for independence is written with blood of Naga patriot. It is too dear to destroy our history, as we see today our situation has come to state of self destruction”, Rev Nuh said. He also lauded the bravery and contributions of the Khonoma people towards the Naga political struggle. He said Khonoma has become the “school of political thought and nationalism”. Former FGN President Scato Swu, who was the guest of honour today appealed to all the national workers to let peace and tranquility prevail, so that Naga people may feel a sigh of relief. He recounted the struggle he made together with Lt Khrisanisa, and the ordeal undergone by the Nagas.
“We are making historical setting by erecting the memorial stone of Lt. Khrisanisa Seyie, to enable the future to utilize this setting in greater details. In fact, it is the moral obligation for Nagaland to do the job. We are deeply indebted to Khonoma Ruffuno who took responsibility voluntarily on behalf of the Nagas”, Scato said, while referring to the monolith erection.
Matong Imti, a social worker and son of former NNC vice president, Late Imkongmeren said peace is within our reach, but we cannot achieve it because Nagas have forgotten the covenant with the ‘prince of peace’ (Jesus Christ). “Do we want to have peace with honour or peace with shame, peace with victory or peace with defeat?” Matong asked.
Court or military action– NSCN-K on boundary issue The Morung Express
Dimapur, Feb 28 (MExN): Charging the Nagaland Government of being “so easy” in handling the Nagaland-Assam boundary issue, the NSCN-K advises that the matter be taken to the court and that the British archives in Kolkata and London be consulted for proper assessment. Or, if at all the matter fails, a military showdown with Assam state. A note from ‘Under Secretary’ Thomas Oving suggests thus: “It may be advisable for the state Government of Nagaland to pursue the case in the courts. If the Nagaland government could not find out competent and favorable advocates in India, it can engage foreign advocates and lawyers also; it should try to procure the necessary documentary evidences from the British archives in Kolkata and London”.
However, for the matter another option can be explored: a military showdown “once and for all”, the NSCN-K states. “The other option is military showdown to decide the case once and for all. Nagaland has only 11 armed police battalions including 3 IRBs whereas Assam has almost 30 battalions of armed police. But the challenge of the Assam government should be accepted because the Assam government has not been and is not willing to settle the issue through peaceful means with mutual respect and by acknowledging the historical facts” the NSCN-K opined.

It further stated that the talks about demarcation in 1925 was made not by any Ahom Raja neither by Naga chieftains but rather made by the British colonial rulers long before India attained its independence. “It was a demarcation of reserved forests and was never a demarcation of boundary between Assam and Nagaland. Such demarcation was necessitated to keep away the Nagas as well as the Assamese from wanton destruction and exploitation of the forests. This fact should be made loud and clear to both the Assamese and the Indian Government” it added.
Lotha Hoho demands delimitation exercise Cautions on boycott of future elections if status quo continues The Morung Express
Dimapur, Feb 28 (MExN): Slamming as ‘farce, baseless and unrealistic’ the Nagaland Government asserting status Quo in the delimitation issue on tribal grounds, the Lotha Hoho feels strongly that the Delimitation Commission should carry out the delimitation exercise. Failure to effect action on this would mean the Lotha community would be compelled to boycott ‘any future elections in Nagaland’, it cautions.
“If Nagaland is exempted and status quo is maintained from the purview of the delimitation process and minor readjustments within districts is left to the state government alone as claimed by the official source, more problems will be created as already started in some district like Mokokchung, there will be discontentment and chaos among ethnic tribal groups” the Lotha Hoho executives in a representation to the Commission’s chairman stated. The Lotha Hoho stated that inequality and gap already existing between the ‘advanced’ and ‘backward’ tribes will continue to be neglected politically, economically and socially for lack of representation in the state legislature.
The Hoho set forth these points: The delimitation Commission had earlier in August 2005 in its working paper for 60 Assembly Constituencies, proposed allotment of seats to the eleven districts of Nagaland by setting an average population of 33.167 per AC which “we found it to be just proper and equitable for all the districts/tribes of Nagaland”. The entitlement for each district as per 2001 census is not transfer of assembly seats from one district to another. “It is an entitlement as per Parliamentary act under the constitution of India. Any attempt to take away the constitutional right is discriminatory and unconstitutional because if no delimitation is taken place a district like Mokokchung and Zunheboto which has 10 and 7 assembly seats respectively will have a population of about 23, 000 and 22, 000 only per constituency

where as Kiphire over 50, 700 per constituency, Peren over 45, 780, Wokha will have a population of over 40, 300 per constituency and Dimapur although urban district will have a population of over 66, 00 per constituency” the Hoho explained. Thus, advanced districts/tribes will have smaller constituencies than the backward districts and some backward districts with fewer constituencies at present will have two to three times bigger the size of constituencies of advanced districts in terms of population, it stated. “These imbalances will definitely result in disparity in the matter of development, economic, social and political status of the districts. Therefore all constituencies must have equal sizes in terms of population as per 2001 census. As such the claim of the state government to maintain unique tribal composition is a farce, baseless and unrealistic” the Hoho stated. Backward districts would continue to be neglected due to less and uneven distribution of assembly constituencies. Also, for instance, an elected member from an advanced district will look after 22,000 or 23, 000 populations whereas backward districts like Longleng, Kiphire and Peren will be looking after over 50, 000 to 60, 000 population, the Hoho stated. From these points, the Lotha contented that there will be inequality and tribal imbalances contrary to the claim of the state government which will definitely result in economic, social and political imbalances among the tribes of Nagaland. “As such we are confident that the Delimitation Commission would look into all these aspects while deciding the question of delimitation of Assembly constituencies in Nagaland” the Hoho stated.
Monolith of first FDN President unveiled at Khonoma The Morung Express

He also said that sense of justice is required for reconciliation and healing of wounds. Never had we imagine our struggle will end in precipice, Matong said, but called upon the Naga people to face disappointment with hope and failure with courage.
“We are politically, mentally and psychologically sick. Everybody is a leader, but no one has the authority. We are spiritually bankrupt”, said Matong, while adding that rampant corruption, lust for money, extortion, threat and intimidation and lack of work culture and deficiency of discipline has become the nature of the Nagas. Niketu Iralu, a prominent social, said that earlier the Naga political struggle was like a “sacred holy tree”, when the sapling was healthy and all are nurturing it, but now the tree has began to produce poisonous fruit. He said that Nagas are now obsessed with the fight, that they have begun to neglect the tree, and as a result it has begun to die.
“We are interested in fruit then nurturing the tree and garden”, Niketu said, while emphasizing on the urgent need to re-examine the struggle. “We are bringing the worst out of us and the consequence is shocking all of us. We all blame others for poor performance, but all of us have contributed to destruction of Nagas”, Niketu added. He also charged the national workers of accumulating huge wealth and properties in the name of national movement. He called upon the younger generation to find a creative way of sitting down together.
“The need of the hour is to listen to one another. As we gather here today, it’s a wonderful coming together”, he further asserted Gen. Thenosilie M Keyho, former C-in-C, and Pastor P. Peseyie, first secretary of the FGN also spoke on the occasion. Former NNC Presidents, Kilonsers, Naga army generals, women wing leader, High Court Chairman, Ato Kilonser, Angh, and body guard of Lt Khrisanisa were honoured during the function.
Naga singer, Methaneilie Jutakhrie spoke his patriotic mind as he belt out his popular composition, “Freedom or Faction”. Thus, goes the song: “Hey! Freedom rasta tinta-ta, char-ta, Amikhan ki rasta te jabo. Hey! Esur asol dekhai bina, Hosa Kobole kapi she, hili bole bhandi she. Hey! faction rasta tin-ta charta-ta, Amikhan ki rasta te jabo. Hey! Esur kobole kapi she, hili bole bhandi she (Hashi lebi mon kandi).
The four hour long programme started off with invocation prayer from Rev. Yankee Patton, First FGN Chaplain, while it was followed by presidential address, Peteroko Meyase, Chakhesang folk dance, speeches, special number, speeches on behalf of the family by Dietho-U Seyie, son of Khrisanisa, vote thanks by Rev Pastor Tsolie Chase and benediction by Rev. Dr Visor H Zeliang.
Dark cloud hovered over the Khonoma sky through out the day, as thousands seated solemnly to pay homage to the first FGN president, and wondering what the future holds for Naga political struggle. However, at the end of the day bright sun peeped at the gathering from distant horizon, sending ray of hope. The programme was organized by Khonoma Ruffuno. Several former NNC and FGN leaders also joined the anniversary to pay homage to their departed comrade. As one watched them seated, time seemed to have wizened their brave face and soften their flesh, but their unbeaten smile still appeared to hold the future. Lt Khrisanisa was elected as the first FGN Kedahge (president) on July 12, 1956 and held the chair till February 18, 1959. He was said to be a God fearing man and was known for his staunch integrity. His legacy and wisdom are still admired and cherished. He was always firm in his belief, committed to his ideals and honest not only to himself but to all whom he was acquainted, said a booklet written by his former comrade Biseto Keyho, Former Kilo Kilonser and Former Secretary to the FGN.
FGN rue Accordist-NSCN (IM) activities The Mortung Express
Dimapur, Feb 28 (MExN): FGN Chakhesang Region takes note that ‘Shillong Accordists’ and the NSCN-IM in collusion are terrorizing the Chakhesang people.
“The Shillong Accordists in Chakhesang region and the NSCN-IM had on 16th October, 2006 met at Pfutsero town reached an understanding to jointly work; now in collusion they are terrorizing the Chakhesang people,” ‘Secretary’ of Chakhesang Region Zapoyi Swuro stated in a note. Even the public leaders and church leaders are also at loss to do anything now, the FGN maintained. According to the FGN, many Chakhesang leaders and “national workers” have fallen prey to the NSCN-IM and now with some of the community members working with the NSCN-IM, the Naga cause is being subverted. “Let everyone ponder and know how these transit peace campers and NSCN-IM are cheating and harming the Nation. We cannot ignore how these people had terrorized the inhabitants of Pfutsero Basa, Lozaphuhu, Ketsapo and presently Phek town” the note mentioned. It further stated that the “Chakhesangs had declared its stand to work for the NNC and FGN”. The Chakhesang regional Council, NNC and the “Region government” had also declared on October 12, 2006 to disassociate with the Transit Peace campers, the FGN reminded and added that ‘any Chakhesang working contrary to these principles cannot be considered as Chakhesang region national workers”.
Also, reminding that the “Chakhesang people also elect and appoint our legitimate Midan Peyu, regional president and other leaders” the FGN questioned the source of the Transit Peace campers’ authority to “elect and appoint” Chakhesang region’s Midan Peyu and regional president. “This is only a shameful ploy to confuse and cheat the people; leadership cannot be self-styled” it stated and reaffirmed to work steadfastly for the NNC and FGN and to remain one in conformity with the declared stand till the goal is achieved.
Appeal to the NSCN collective leadership The Morung Express Perspective
It is the fervent appeal of the concerned citizens upon the Collective Leadership of the NSCN/GPRN to seriously evaluate the unfavorable repercussions that may result through the participation or involvement of the national workers in the up-coming general by-elections in the State of Nagaland.
That, Sir, as our Naga nationhood being our priority and the preservation and strengthening of unity, integrity, welfare and well-being of all the Nagas is being the most important precedence above all else, we appeal for your wise judgment and intervention for the benefit of the Nagas. That, through the past incidents experienced by the general Naga public, though involvement in the Indian elections by national workers were ruled out by the Collective Leadership, there had occurred certain instances where national workers had involved themselves, either directly or indirectly. These happenings had imprinted a bad impression upon the NSCN/GPRN as well as lost much trust vested upon it. As the NSCN/GPRN is an organization representing all the Nagas and its manifesto also clearly affirms that it is a ‘one party one government’, we believe that there would be no partisan policies adopted by the sole bulwark organization of the Nagas.
There have existed divisive and tribalistic leanings transfused by inimical forces to divide the Naga family, which we have been grappling with. In addition to such prevalent tendency, if the national workers involve themselves in siding with one Naga against the other Nagas, that will undoubtedly alienate us into disunity and heighten the growth of disaffection, parochial separatism and ultimate disintegration of our society.
Though the election process may be under the Indian democratic constitutional norms, it is a process where the candidates as well as the electorates are Nagas. Hence, in the common interest of the Nagas and to avoid disunity, it would be best for all the national workers to abstain from any involvement in the ensuing by-elections, which are being contested in-between four-five Naga candidates. It would be best in the interest of the Nagas to freely exercise their democratic rights by deciding who to choose as their representative before any solution to the Indo-Naga political issue is attained. While the Naga people in assertion of our rights for self-determination are undertaking initiatives to resolve the vexed Indo-Naga political imbroglio, Nagas are also afflicted by elements of parochialisms and hegemony that are gradually tearing us apart. At this crucial stage where the NSCN/GPRN is engaged in political talks with India for the sovereignty and integration of a common Naga peoples’ land and our unique identity, if they participate in the election process it will not only demean its image as representative of all the Nagas but will also alienate the trust of the people.
While the Collective leaders are here with us today, as before, verbal assurances of non-involvement in the elections will remain meaningless unless it is practically implemented. Negation of the Collective leaders’ directives will only demonstrate disrespect and dishonor of them, thus depicting anarchy and disorder of the leading Naga organization representing the Nagas. We need to recognize these ambivalences and ambiguities and enforce beneficial tendencies towards reinforcing unity, while struggling against the conditions which create the possibility of these diverse stirrings.
Therefore, the concerned citizens with the hope for strengthening unity and the common welfare of all the Nagas appeal to the Collective Leadership of the NSCN/GPRN to exercise their leadership’s wisdom, in the interest of our Naga nation, to avert the Naga people from succumbing to further more divisive alienations.

Concerned Citizens,
Khekivi Sumi, Resident, Burma Camp, Dimapur
Among Longkumer, Resident, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur
Roland Lotha, Resident, Supply Colony, Dimapur
Tsubenthung Lotha, Resident, NST Colony, Dimapur
Hekishe Sumi, Resident, Khermahal, Dimapur
Better Nagaland The Morung Express Perspective Geoffery
Persuasive appeals of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council and Nagaland Mothers Association and others for revoking NSCN (K)’s ‘Quit Notice’ to Tangkhuls have not yielded positive results. NSCN (K) feels very strong about the issue despite ardent appeals by various NGOs and civil society. Consequent to the issuance of the Quit Notice, in Aug ’06, about half a dozen lives have been lost and dozens of people displaced. Inter factional clashes for establishing hegemony of certain geographical areas and its societal effects can not be lost sight of. These whimsical actions aimed at territorial control belie their outward stance of bringing peace and prosperity in Nagaland. Analysis of the activities of factions reveals that Nagaland is virtually getting divided between the two, notwithstanding small pockets of influence of NNC & FGN in between. Quit Notice seems to be a metaphor of likely changes in psephological pattern of Nagaland. The wanton killings and unnecessary displacement of innocents portend far reaching ramifications for the Nagas wherever they may be.
NSCN (K) has already issued Quit Notice to Tangkhuls from 19 regions, encompassing almost entire Nagaland and portion of neighbouring state. Before issue of such notice, has the thought been given to its cascading effect in the areas, where non Tangkhul Nagas reside? Nagaland has 16 major tribes with other sub tribes. Serious analysis needs to be made on the affiliation/non affiliation of major and minor tribes and the impact of the Quit Notice call. Irrespective of ethnicity, it may end up making people homeless sequeling major internal displacement of tribal population from one region to another. Are we prepared to accept these refugees and related societal problems? Virtually every region and every district will have its share of such refugees. Everyone including issuers of this gratuitous notice have to realise its outrageous effects on the Naga society at large, to which they all belong. We need to have malice towards none if we want a better Nagaland. It will be right to end this note with a Biblical prayer.
Ibobi all set for second term as Chief Minister Sushanta Talukdar Unanimously re-elected leader of the Manipur Congress Legislature Party The Hindu

Expedite Assam, Nagaland boundary settlement- Nagaland Post Opinion
According to the Ahom Puranji written by Ahom ancestors, ventilate many tribes about the Ahom and the Nagas. The following points of facts relationship between the two brothers are as follows:-
1. The people of Ahom and the Nagas were living closely as next door kith and kin and neighbor - Politically, socially, culturally, economically and in defence to a great extent even before the advent of Britishers in Assam without hatred and misunderstanding between the two brothers. There was complete peace harmony and tranquility prevailed even during British regime. Perhaps the young generations - non-Ahom who have never read Ahom Puranji or are ignorant of the ABC of Ahom Puranji led in misunderstanding, conflict to arise continuously between the people of Ahom and the Nagas.
2. Before the Britishers went to Assam, there was a great war between Ahom and Burmese now (Myanmar) the Burmese were invading Ahom. The king of Ahom was exiled to Naga soil. The Nagas were supporters of Ahom without reservation in order to defeat Burmese thereby; many Naga warriors lost their precious lives. The Ahom king also married a Naga woman name (Talami). After the Burmese left Assam; the Ahom king returned to his native place Assam and reestablished his Kingdom at Sibsagar. He constructed gigantic pond in memoriam of his beloved wife queen Joymoti called Joyhagar at Sibsagar which still exists.
3. After the advent of British in Assam, province was created within the hills district. Forest reserve had been made along the Naga foothills including vast areas of land belonging to Nagas of lower and middle range foothill belt within their village jurisdiction. Initially, those were looked after and maintained by officers from Naga Hills for administrative convenience the forest reserve were later transfered to Sibsagar district by Britishers. The question/issue was raised in Naga People Convention (NPC) meeting which 16 points agreement for formation of Nagaland state with centre government was decided. Is it not wrong and illogical on the part of Assam people and the government to claim every inch of land at Naga foothill? Consequently, SUNDARAM commission report was turned down by the Nagas last time.
4. After the agreement of Assam/Nagaland chief secretary in 1972, the Assam government had deployed Assam Police (AP) and forest staff to rob off Naga developed khetis and well established properties and destroyed everything and khetis were distributed to illegal foreign national Bangladeshi refugees. Nagaland foothill belt 10 (ten) kms inside Nagaland under respective village land/jurisdiction were developed by our ancestors since time immemorial.
5. Tenants/Halwa/Adhidar kept by the Nagas farmers were not allowed to give tax share due to them (land owners) whatever remained, few cases were also grabbed and forcibly occupied by the foreign national immigrants refugees. All the fertile and plain areas belonging to the Nagas have been occupied by them.
6. Thousands of refugees foreign national immigrants Bangaladesh and obscure communities of illegal encroachers/grabbers were thrust by the concerned public leaders for votes banks and Assam government authorities for their personal interest. There is serious breach of agreement of two states as the plains people have been allowed to develop on "War" footing under support neutral forces (CRPF) whereas the Nagas tied up for activities in the disputed zone and forcibly occupied and encroachment is unabated till today.
7. Many Nagas have been killed, even a pregnant lady with her 3 years old child along with a couple buried was alive in abandoned ring well in 1998 by the criminals. The high handedness, atrocity and harassment meted out to innocent Nagas public is a common practice and habit of the Assam authorities police and neutral forces (CRPF). Nagas are treated like animals/creatures.
8. Consequently more than 600-800 Naga foothill farmers have been knocked out and displaced completely, dispossessed off their well established land holding including several co-op. farming societies, stretching from foothill, especially lower range Assam bordering. More than 1000 (one thousand) sq kms of the land of Nagas in the plain sector bordering Assam had already been encroached.
9. The two state chief ministers met at Imphal immediately at Merapnai (MARAJU) after incident June 1985 incident and arranged temporary shelter for knocked out illegal encroachers even CGI sheets issued to them were not allowed to be nailed, saying that settlement should be done very soon. Though it has lapsed 22 years still no action has been taken so far by the two states governments. It is lip service only
10. In 1993 Nagaland government tried to settle on "Ground reality" under Wokha district taking 1993 May, as cut off year, but Lotha Hoho flatly rejected, as it is gross injustice to dispose off Naga khetis under this manner, as this lands/khetis were owned and inherited by the ancestors since time immemorial used for generations and generations.
11. Assam has boundary dispute with her neighboring states - Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Nagaland etc., then who is selfish and aggressive?? According to the Assam government’s attitude, they are full of puissant, very anxious and pugnacious to fight with her neighboring states in order to forcibly occupy lands. If so then, it is opined that once a major war is fought between neighboring states the boundary issue could be resolved and settled. That is the only solution.
Rikhyo, Octogenarian, Senior most citizens.
Appeal by concerned Nagas in response to the ‘Quit notice’ Kangla on Line
In an effort to bring about peace and harmony among the Nagas, we the following concerned Nagas would like to make an appeal.
We fully understand the anger, hurt and outrage behind the Quit Notice issued by NSCN(K). The narrated intolerable excesses of some Tangkhuls in the NSCN(IM) that have provoked the Quit Notice are true. Yet the NSCN(K) accusation that all Tangkhuls are agents of NSCN(IM) is not true. Therefore the ultimatum to all Tangkhuls to quit Nagaland or face dire consequences is excessive and unjustified. No Naga tribe today is qualified to judge others so harshly from a moral high ground, especially the “advanced” or major tribes.
We believe it is outrageously wrong to accuse and victimize an entire tribe for the evil deeds or failures of some individuals of the tribe. Once this tempting method of achieving goals is allowed, Nagas will be on a slippery road to uncontrollable mutual destruction. This must not be allowed to happen. Any Tangkhul or anyone from any Naga tribe may join or support NSCN (IM) or any of the national groups provided that right is not misused to oppress or exploit others.
If our perception is correct, the Quit Notice will also complicate our politics too dangerously for all Nagas at this stage. We, therefore, appeal to the concerned leaders to review their decision on the Quit Notice that will serve the common good of all Nagas giving our people a chance to find unity through healing and reconciliation. NSCN(K) will be guilty of an equally wrong excess should its Quit Notice result in the shedding of innocent Tangkhul blood.
The Naga public are also beginning to question why Tangkhul Long, Tangkhul Churches and other bodies are remaining silent, leaving it to other Nagas to speak out at this dangerous time to protect helpless innocents. Nagas urgently need to hear what Tangkhul public bodies have to say. Excesses committed by certain Tangkhuls in the NSCN (IM) have for long angered other Nagas, not just the Khaplang group. What we need most at present is to strengthen the unity that binds all the Naga tribes. Concerned Nagas - Rev. Dr. V.K. Nuh, Rev. L. Shohie Mhasi, Rev. Dr. Visor Zeliang, Rev. Chingang Konyak, Rev. C. Lima Sangtam, Rev. L. Kari Longchar, Rev. L. Bizo, Rev. Fr. Abraham, Rev. Pughoto Aye, Rev. S. Takam, Pastor Hotokhu P. Zhimomi, Dr. Miss Kapfo, Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, Rev. Shiwoto Sumi, Rev. Dr. Pongsing Konyak, Mrs. Lochumlo Yanthan, Niketu Iralu, Ahu Sakhrie, Dr. Dietho-o.
AT THE HELM AGAIN: Manipur Chief Minister Ibobi Singh (centre) after he was elected new Congress Legislature Party leader, in Imphal on Wednesday. Oscar Fernandes, who is in charge of the party in the State, is at left. IMPHAL: Okram Ibobi Singh is all set to return as Manipur's Chief Minister for a second successive term. Mr. Ibobi, the first Chief Minister of the State to have completed a full five-year term in office, was unanimously re-elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) on Wednesday. He is all set to call on the Governor to stake claim to form the new government. Mr. Singh's name was proposed by State unit president and MLA from the Nungba constituency Gaikhangam and seconded by Th. Debendra (Jiribam constituency) and Phungzathang Tonsing (Churachandpur constituency). The CLP meeting was attended by Union Minister and AICC general secretary, who is in charge of the northeast, Oscar Fernandes, and AICC general secretary Maj. (retd.) Ved Prakash. Addressing a press conference after the meeting, Mr. Ibobi said the new government would be constituted in a day or two after the party high command decides on the offer of unconditional support by political parties.
CPI stand The CPI, a partner in the outgoing Congress-led Secular Progressive Front, is yet to make public its stand. However, Mr. Singh said the CPI had expressed its willingness to extend support though the two parties contested against each other in the elections. The Congress won 30 seats, one short of majority, while the CPI got four.
Sangma's offer Earlier in the day, Nationalist Congress Party general secretary Purno A Sangma told The Hindu that his party would definitely consider joining or supporting the government if the Congress sought its support. The NCP won five seats, while the RJD and the National People's Party won three each. Mr. Singh said the new government would try to translate the commitments made by the Congress in its poll manifesto into action. He thanked the people for reposing their faith and confidence in the Congress.
On what would be the new government's stand on the demand for repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, he said his party too did not favour continuation of AFSPA. The Government had withdrawn the disturbed area tag from seven Assembly segments. The Act would automatically lapse from the entire State when normality returned.
Peace talks Asked to comment on the fate of peace talks with the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), with Congress president Sonia Gandhi having reiterated during electioneering her party's commitment to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur, Mr. Fernandes, the Centre's emissary for the peace talks, said there would be progress in the process once he returned to Delhi. Talks were on, but details could be revealed only after the two sides arrived at a conclusion.
Thanks for the money, let us build universities Express News Service
Pune, February 28: Budgetary allocation always has its winners and whiners. But if a cross-section of the people of the North-East residing in Pune is to believed, the allocation of funds for their peoples back home is more than satisfactory. What’s more, they want a significant chunk of the Rs 14,365 crore to be used in the field of education.
Nagaland’s Angeline Achumi, an MPhil student from Pune University, has hailed the allocation as a mark of recognition for the North-East. “We are a part of India, yet not a part. Now, at least they are showing a mark of recognition,” he said. Education topped the list when the question came to where the money should be diverted. “There need to be better universities in the North-East,” said MBA student Abhik Das from Meghalaya. “This would allow students to remain within the North-East to pursue education. ”
Shaval Murthy from Shilong, studying at SCHMRD said that terrorism was a major issue plaguing the region. “Illiteracy has an underlying connection with terrorism. There is a lot of dissatisfaction because of unemployment,” Murthy pointed out. Making a special reference to Nagaland and areas around , Mary Swu, a law student from A K Khan Law College said industries were a sign of development. “We have hardly one or two factories in Nagaland,” she lamented. Murthy blamed it on poor infrastructure.
Tourism was third on the list. “Tourism can do to the North-East, what IT has done to Banagalore,” Das averred. According to many with little touching up, the North East’s natural beauty would put it on an international map. Now, utilisation is the big deal.
UNC support base climbs to 8 United Naga Democratic Alliance comes into being Morung Express News
Dimapur TWO NEWLY elected Naga independent MLAs to the Manipur Legislative Assembly today vouched their support to the United Naga Council, despite the fact they did not contest as ‘consensus candidates.’ Khanthuanang Panmei of Tamenglong A/c and M Thohrii of Mao A/c have attested their support for pushing forward common agenda, UNC President Paul Leo said.
This was arrived at during a UNC-called meeting in Thungjoy, Senapati today where elected Naga MLAs were invited. Though Panmei could not attend the meeting, he communicated his support to the UNC, Leo informed. “Eight (MLAs) will be within our fold,” he said. As an outcome of today’s meeting, the new political organization under the banner of United Naga Democratic Alliance, or UNDA, was formally floated. The alliance will formulate work programs and chart a course to be followed. Though defeated, former MLA Samuel Jendai, who was outdone by Panmei, will continue to work with the UNC because of his “magnanimity”, Leo added. The UNC has conceded defeat of the Chandel A/c to their “Kuki brethren.”
The two other seats where consensus candidates lost are now in the grip of the Congress, and as such, working together with the elected MLAs of these two constituencies is a long shot. The UNC had, before the elections, put up candidates in 11 constituencies.
The 8 MLAs are expected to raise issues before the floor of the Manipur Assembly and also don the roles of delegates by visiting Delhi, Nagaland, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and other areas to push forward the integration of Naga areas and to work for an early solution to the protracted Indo-Naga issue. Another MLA absentee in today’s meeting was Wunganoshang Keishing, said to be down with an upset stomach.
ULFA sets terms for peace talks with New Delhi By IANS
Guwahati, Feb 28 (IANS) The outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) Wednesday offered to hold talks with New Delhi if the government gives a written proposal for initiating the peace process in Assam. 'We urge the Indian government to pave the way for direct talks by giving in writing that it would hold talks with us on the issue of restoration of Assam's sovereignty, provide us with information of our comrades who are in the custody of Indian and Bhutanese forces, and releasing our jailed central committee leaders,' ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa said in a statement. The rebel leader said this while rebutting a statement Tuesday by union Minister of State for Home, S. Reghupathy, in parliament that the government had not received any formal proposal from ULFA for direct talks.
'In June 2005 we had sent a formal letter addressed to the prime minister expressing our desire for direct talks and even cited three of our preconditions (mentioned above). And in Oct 2006 the People's Consultative Group (PCG) held the first round of talks with the prime minister,' Rajkhowa said. 'The minister's statement on the floor of parliament saying there was no formal proposal from the ULFA for talks is nothing but an attempt to conceal the truth and shows the government's insincerity in trying to resolve the issue politically,' he added. The peace process broke down in Sept last year after New Delhi called off a six-week ceasefire and resumed military operations blaming the ULFA for stepping up violence and extortions. In January this year, the ULFA went on a rampage killing at least 90 people, most of then Hindi-speaking migrant workers, prompting New Delhi to intensify the anti-insurgency operations. The ULFA mellowed down in recent weeks when it called off a boycott of the 33rd National Games in Guwahati.
Northeast hails central budget as development oriented By IANS
Guwahati, Feb 28 (IANS) From a new industrial policy for the region and an exclusive package to rejuvenate the tea industry to funds for highway development and a road-cum-rail bridge over the Brahmaputra, the central budget 2007-2008 has given the northeast a lot to be pleased about.
'The central government's concern for the overall development of the northeast was very well reflected in the budget with the finance minister announcing a series of welfare measures for the region,' Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said Wednesday. 'This is a development oriented budget.'
One of the major highlights of the budget, presented by Finance Minister P. Chidambaram in parliament, is the new industrial policy for the northeast. All regional states have hailed the initiative that could go a long way in boosting business and attracting investors to the region.
'We hope outside investors would now try and set up businesses here with incentives available under the new Industrial Policy,' Jayanta Madhab, a noted economist and former director of the Asian Development Bank, said. The nearly Rs.48 billion Special Purpose Tea Fund was expected to provide the much needed succour to India's sagging tea industry.
'This is a very welcome announcement and we hope the funds would give some breathing space to the tea industry and help in rejuvenating the industry,' a senior tea official said. Poor infrastructure, particularly roads, has always been a talking point in the northeast. But with Rs.4 billion earmarked for highway development in the northeast, things are expected to look up. 'We welcome the move to earmark funds for highway development in the region. With the additional funds, we hope we can see some improvement in the deplorable road conditions in the northeast,' said Brajamani Singh, a transport operator in Manipur's capital Imphal. The announcement of a road-cum-rail bridge over the river Brahmaputra in Bogibeel in eastern Assam was also hailed by political parties cutting across party lines. 'This has been a longstanding demand of the people of Assam and the central government has rightly decided to concede to our demand. We are happy that the finance minister has made specific comments on the Bogibeel project,' Apurba Bhattacharyya, a senior leader of the opposition Asom Gana Parishad in Assam, said.
No talks on sovereignty issue with ULFA: CM Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Feb 28 – Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today ruled out any possibility of negotiating the issue of sovereignty with the ULFA. He also argued that the State today needs a positive approach from its people towards development and made an appeal to the opposition members to read the ideologies behind each of the Government schemes. The Chief Minister was replying to the debate on the motion of thanks on the February 26 address of the Governor.

He claimed that the State Government under his stewardship was positive and transparent in all respects and it was sincere in its efforts to lead the State towards progress. The State has made progress during the last five to six years under his Government and those refusing to believe this fact are in fact renouncing the truth. The State has recorded today a growth rate of 5.93 per cent and its Plan allocation had also gone up to Rs 3,800 crore, he said.

Investment in the State has gone up and the rising price of land in Guwahati is an indicator to this fact. Even the purchasing power of people in the rural areas has also gone up. The growing sales of scooters and two-wheelers in the rural areas are the indicators to this, claimed the Chief Minister. Meanwhile, the flow of tourists to the State has gone up to 40 lakh against the earlier figure of 10 lakh. The State Government did not have the funds, but it had the will, the required intelligence and skills behind these successes, he said.
The State Government is evolving a comprehensive approach also for the judicious utilization of the available natural resources with the help of the experts and its emphasis here is on benefiting the poor people, the Chief Minister said. Sovereignty: Rejecting the demand made by the opposition members for taking the issue of sovereignty also on the agenda of discussion with the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), he made it clear that the issue of couldn’t be discussed with the militant outfit. For he said, the Government had taken the oath in the name of the Indian Constitution. Therefore, this Government cannot grant sovereignty. Discussion on the issue will only delay the talks with the outfit, he said. Assam Accord: In reply to the opposition members’ concern over the delay in implementing Clause –VI of the Assam Accord, he said that because of the failure of the Sahitya Sabhas to arrive at a consensus on the definition of indigenous people, the clause could not be implemented so far. But the Government has initiated the process for the purpose and is trying to evolve a consensus on the issue.

“The Government cannot exclude any of the ethnic groups like the Bodos, the Misings, the Tiwas, the Karbis etc. There should be a definition of the indigenous people, which is accepted by all sections of the people. Even the opposition parties may also come forward to define the indigenous people. The Government does not want to impose anything on the people,” he said.

Law and order: The Chief Minister maintained that his Government was not claiming a total improvement in the law and order situation of the State. But it has improved considerably, he said. National Games: He claimed that the National Games had enhanced the prestige of the State. But for it, the credit should go to the people of the State and not to the ULFA as the opposition members had suggested. The people of the State are politically more matured now, he said. The State dared to hold the Games undeterred by the odds like fund constraints and its meal tally was also good. But it was due to the efforts of the rural youths that the State could win so many medals, he said. He also questioned the silence of the opposition parties when the NE TV had described him a scoundrel. The TV channel has done more harm to the State by maligning its image with a negative propaganda.
The House adopted the motion of thanks on the Governor’s address by a voice vote.
Post-poll violence erupts in Manipur From Our Correspondent Assam tribune
IMPHAL, Feb 28 – Post-poll violence erupted at Kumbi Assembly constituency and Keirao Assembly segment in Manipur amidst the declaration of election results on Tuesday evening.

Around 10 houses located at Wangoo Makha Leikai and Wangoo Sandankhong at Kumbi constituency under Bishnupur district were torched by unidentified miscreants soon after the election result was announced. Ningthoujam Mangi of the CPI who won from the Kumbit seat, on being contacted by the local media, said that the matter has been reported to the police.

At Keirao Assembly constituency in Imphal East district too, some residential houses were reportedly ransacked in poll related violence prompting police to open blank fire to control the situation. According to information received here, the incident occurred in the afternoon today soon after announcement of the results of election in which INC candidate Allauddin Khan defeated his nearest rival, MSCP candidate Karam Thamarjit by just two votes. Infuriated supporters of Thamarjit allegedly started searching for the supporters of Allauddin Khan and targeted their houses. At least five residential houses have been reportedly vandalised in the incident.

National integration tour organised by Army Our Correspondent Assam tribune
JAGIROAD, Feb 28 – A National Integration Tour conducted by the Jagiroad-based Red Horns Division of the Indian Army got under way on February 23 for the students of Morigaon and West Karbi Anglong districts of Assam. The students have been taken to the cities of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Jaisalmer as part of Op Sadbhavana of the Army which is aimed at winning the hearts and minds of people. The tour also includes visit to Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Hawa Mahal and other famous monuments in these cities. The tour will conclude on March 8 next.

Sabir Hussain, deputy commissioner, Morigaon flagged off the tour in a xfunction at Topatoli army camp near here on February 22 in presence of Madan Chetia, SP, Morigaon and huge gathering. Hussain addressing the students exhorted them to make use of this excellent opportunity provided by the Indian Army to explore the North-western part of the country.

The tour would probably be the first insight for the students to places outside the North-east. This tour will provide the students an opportunity to understand the varied and diversified culture of the country and enable them to have a glimpse of the lifestyle of people prevalent in those places. The tour will certainly widen their horizons and embed memories which they would cherish for long besides helping in shaping their futures in a better manner.

Post results declaration, violence continues The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Feb 28: Post election result violence erupted at several places in the state leaving many people homeless in the valley districts while three village chiefs were kidnapped and several villagers hurt in assaults by miscreants. Clashes between the workers of lost and successful candidates in the wake of the declaration of election results erupted late last evening and went on till today. Meanwhile, official reports said that chief of Tuchamphai, Mongjang and Lhungjang villages in Senapati district have been abducted by suspected armed supporters of the Congress candidate from Saikul (ST) A/C, Chungkhokai Doungel, late Wednesday morning from their respective villages. Police suspect the miscreants to be the cadres of KNA.

The miscreants intruded into the villages and assaulted many men and also damaged their houses. They were charged of not casting their votes in favour of the Congress candidate, the report said.

Fear over the revisit of the armed miscreants displaced the villagers who took asylum in the nearby safer villages, the report added. Doungel who had been occupying the Saikul assembly seat for four consecutive terms lost his seat by only 358 votes in the hands of Doukhomang Khongsai. At Dimba Warongba village of Tamenglong district also the president and secretary of the Dimba Warongba Youth Organisation were badly beaten up by some unknown miscreants suspected to be cadres of the outfits indirectly backing the UNC sponsored candidates in the district. The report said that apart from assaulting them badly they were also threatened of dire consequences if the family hospitalized them. They were reportedly treated at their respective homes. Meanwhile, our Tamenglong correspondent says the CAO of NSCN (IM) in the district has issued an order to shun violence of any kind related with the elections.

While appealing for an end to violence, the CAO also urged for an end to inter-village, intra-village and individual clashes. He further urged the concerned to make defunct all the organisations that were set up as a part of the electioneering of the candidates in the district.

Tamenglong district headquarters also remained a ghost town last night as night curfew from 6 pm till 5 am was imposed in the town since yesterday by the NSCN (IM). The curfew has also dampened the celebrations of workers of the successful candidate in Tamenglong A/C.

A house belonging to the Congress candidate at Bishnupur A/C was also set ablaze by suspected MPP workers this afternoon at Bishnupur ward no. 4. Earlier, it may be mentioned that normal life at Bishnupur Bazar was severely disturbed as all shops and market places were forced to remain closed for the day following assault of many women vendors in the market allegedly by the workers and supporters of a defeated MPP candidate in Bishnupur A/C. Official reports said that total bandh in the bazar was observed as a mark of protest against the excesses of the candidate who suffered defeat in the hands of the PWD minister K Govindas of the Congress.

It may also be mentioned that at least 16 houses belonging to the workers and supporters of CPI at Wangoo Sungdangkhong in Kumbi A/C were set on fire by suspected workers of Congress last night at around 9.30 pm, a report said. Four of the houses were totally razed in the arson.

Aggrieved over the narrow loss to INC candidate Md Allauddin Khan in 6-Keirao A/C workers of MSCP candidate Karam Thamarjit ransacked the home of at least six people, one of whom was Md Allauddin Khan`s polling agents today.

UNC tells its elected candidates not to merge John Basho Pou

Senapati, Feb 28: The dust of 9th Manipur Legislative Assembly election has finally settled with the the declaration of results yesterday. For the Naga people in Manipur, it was a historic political turn with the United Naga Council, UNC, joining Manipur State Legislative Assembly for the first time with its six elected `consensus candidates` who pledged to live up to the expectations and aspirations of the Naga people and their causes.

On being asked about UNC`s whip on the political culture of merging, defection or splitting, particularly for the UNC`s elected candidates, Paul Leo, President of the UNC declared, "merging with or defecting to any other political parties or government will not be allowed for any Naga consensus candidate who were elected from the fray. It`s very clear that they will have to live up to the aspirations of the Naga people and endorse and expedite the on-going Indo-Naga Peace process. That`s their manifesto and issue they have to project in the Assembly and the Centre, and for which people have elected them. They are the voice of Naga people".

And on their performance in the election with only six candidates winning out of eleven consensus candidates, and the other five candidates losing, he said, "we are satisfied, by and large, with our performance. We have tried our best to get all the eleven candidates elected to Legislative Assembly, however, we have failed in some constituencies. It`s a democratic game where everyone plays, so no one is certain about the outcome of it". Asked further why the UNC failed to get all eleven elected, he said no further than, "we have told all national, regional candidates, and even other Naga`s Independent candidates not to contest, except `consensus candidates`, but they went against Naga`s will and aspiration, so what can we do".

The elected UNC`s candidates are W.Keishing from Phungyar A/C who resigned from the State Assembly, of late, in support of the Naga`s cause, Khasim Ruivah (sitting MLA) from Chingai constituency, Danny Shaiza from Ukhrul, a sitting MLA and who resigned in support of Naga`s cause, K.Raina (ex-MLA) from Tadubi, Morung M (ex-MLA) from Tengnoupal, and A.Newmai (newly elected) from Tamei. The other two Naga`s Independent candidates who are not consensus candidates are M. Thohrii(ex-MLA) from Mao constituency and K.Panmei (Newly elected) from Tamenglong. They are to join the UNC`s fold as per the UNC`s Declaration Paper signed by them on 16th January, 2007 at Taphou Naga village, Senapati in support of Naga`s aspiration, but didn`t get entitlement of ` consensus candidate`. Including them, UNC will get 8 candidates to serve in the interest of the Naga people and their aspiration. All the elected UNC candidates will discuss the following course of actions along with UNC officials today and strengthen the issue they would project for the naga people.
Other defeated consensus candidates are R.V.Shirang from Karong, Kho John from Mao, Samuel Jendai from Tamenglong, Sabastian Kanmei from Numba, and Francis from Chandel.

And what took everyone by surprise was K.Panmei, an Independent candidate who has emerged as victory defeating his nearest rival Samuel Jendai, UNC`s consensus candidate from Tamenglong constituency although he was virtually forced to announce that he had already withdrawn from the fray after he was abducted by NSCN (IM) just before the polling.

Few of the points mentioned in the Declaration paper of UNC signed by about 60 naga intending candidates for the 9th Legislative Assembly read as; (1) that I will fully support the on-going Indo-Naga peace process for a negotiated and honorable solution, (2) that on being elected, I will steadfastly defend the interest and aspiration of the naga people for integration/unification of naga areas, (3) that I shall resign from the Manipur Assembly if called upon to do so by the Naga people represented by the UNC, (4) I shall not defect/split/ merge to any other political parties or government without the consent and approval of the naga people represented by the UNC. (5) I shall strengthen society and provide leadership in nation building, (6) I shall work cohesively with leaders of other ethnic communities to provide social tranquility of the region and work for the common interest of all ethnic communities without undermining the aspiration of the nagas, (8) failing to fulfill the above commitment and declarations, I and my witness shall be liable to any measures adopted by the naga people.

GOI statement false: ULFA Sentinel
GUWAHATI: The ULFA today termed as ‘false and misleading’ the Government of India’s statement made in the current session of Parliament, about not receiving any proposal for direct talks from the insurgent group. ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa, in an e-mailed today, said that the outfit’s attention was drawn to the statement made in Parliament on February 27 last where in it was stated that the Government was yet to receive any proposal for direct talks from the ULFA. He informed that the group in its letter sent to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in June 2005 stated that the militant group was willing to come forward for direct talks provided the Government agree to hold discussion on the issue of ‘restoration of sovereignty’ of Asom. The militant leader said that subsequently the same proposal was conveyed to the Government through the People’s Consultative Group (PCG) in October 2006. He alleged that the Centre was yet to respond to its proposal for direct talks sent through the PCG. Instead the Government is misinforming the Members of Parliament through exaggerated statements made on armed activities of the ULFA in an attempt to dismiss the ‘sincerity shown by the group to find a solution to the conflict, he added. Staff Reporter

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