[Previous entry: "Delimitation a manipulation of leading tribes – NSCN (K) The Morung Express"] [Next entry: "NSCN-IM issued 7-days deadline Punishment demanded for youth’s death The Morung Express"]

04/18/2007: "Six killed in NSCN group clash in Nagaland Times of India"

KOHIMA: In a clash between the two rival groups of the NSCN, at least six NSCN (K) cadres were killed at Nagaland's Zunheboto town, police said on Monday. Intermittent exchange of fire took place at Amiphoto colony of the town on Sunday, killing six members of the Khaplang faction after both groups came closer with sophisticated weapons.

One civilian also sustained bullet injuries during the clash, they said. NSCN (I-M) activists also occupied the residence of NSCN (K) general secretary Kitovi Zhimomi when his family members went to attend the church services during morning hours. The factions blamed each other for initiating the attack even as people of Zunheboto appealed to the armed cadres to vacate populated areas and confine themselves in their respective designated camps.

Nagaland on alert after six killed in NSCN attacks Source ::: IANS
kohima • Hundreds of police and paramilitary troopers were deployed in Nagaland yesterday after six people were killed in clashes between rival tribal separatist groups, both of whom operate ceasefire with New Delhi.
“Security forces have now been sent to the area to bring the situation under control. We are still not out of the woods,” said L L Doungel, deputy inspector general of Nagaland Police. He said armed militants of the Isak Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) clashed in two separate places with cadres of the rival group headed by S S Khaplang.
“In one incident, NSCN-IM militants attacked and killed three members of the rival Khaplang group. In retaliatory strikes, cadres of the NSCN-Khaplang faction killed three of their rival members,” Doungel said. The official said a group of armed NSCN-K rebels on Monday attacked and killed three NSCN-IM cadres near Dimapur, Nagaland’s commercial hub. On Sunday, NSCN-IM rebels raided a village near Zunheboto town, about 180km north of state capital Kohima, killing three rival cadres. “Armed NSCN-IM rebels shot dead three members of the rival faction and then attacked the residence of Kitovi Zhimomi, the general secretary of the Khaplang faction,” another senior police official said. At least half-a-dozen rebel cadres of the Khaplang faction were injured in the attack.
“They (NSCN-IM) also shot at the legs of a civilian and set ablaze five houses belonging to local villagers in an incident near Dimapur,” Kughalo Mulatonu, a senior NSCN-Khaplang leader, said. Both the NSCN factions are operating a ceasefire with New Delhi — the NSCN-IM is holding peace talks after the group entered into a truce in 1997. The NSCN-Khaplang is yet to begin formal talks with New Delhi although the group signed a ceasefire pact with the central government in 2001. The two warring factions are engaged in a bitter fratricidal war for territorial supremacy with at least 200 cadres killed during the past five years.
Indian troops quell factional fighting The Peninsula
Hundreds of Indian security forces have been deployed in the restive northeast after six people died in gunfights between rival separatist groups.

Police say three people were shot dead Tuesday in retaliation for the killing of three others on Monday in the northeastern state of Nagaland.

Violence between two rival factions of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland broke out despite a ceasefire between the government and the separatists. Tribal separatist groups in Nagaland have been demanding the creation of a "Greater Nagaland" to unite the more than one million Naga tribal people living in the region. The groups is said to be seeking territorial supremacy in the state. Violent insurgency in Nagaland has claimed around 25,000 lives since India's independence in 1947. AH/MR
CCP demands revamp of CF ground rules The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, APRIL 18 (MExN): Observing that many of the factional clashes in the State were occurring due to the underground groups not staying in their respective designated camps, a Consultative Committee for Peace (CCP) meeting held today wanted that such designated camps be identified immediately and the UG cadres be asked to stay in their respective designated camps.
The committee also requested the Government of India to come out with an implementing mechanism without delay so that the ceasefire ground rules could be implemented in letter and in spirit. “The CCP observes that although there is a monitoring mechanism for ceasefire ground rules, there is no such implementing mechanism for the same”, stated a press communiqué issued by Banuo Z Jamir, Principal Secretary, Home and Member Secretary, CCP.
The frequent factional fighting amongst the Naga underground groups in civilian populated areas was one point of serious concern raised during the CCP meeting. The CCP meeting, which took place at the Chief Minister’s residence, strongly condemned the fratricidal killings and appealed to the underground groups to stop the senseless bloodshed and all forms of violence. In the meeting, the CCP also made an appeal to the Government of India and the NSCN (K) to consider further extension of ceasefire between them which is to expire on April 28, 2007.
The CCP also strongly voiced against all forms of extortion, illegal tax collection and abduction etc adding that such activities must be condemned by all. While appreciating the efforts being made by the civil societies, churches, NGO’s, civil administration, Police and paramilitary forces in maintaining law and order, the committee further appealed to one and all to do their utmost towards maintaining peace and tranquility in the state so that the peace process in the state is not hampered in anyway.
The CCP also observed that the issue of Delimitation of Assembly Constituencies was being used by some people to launch agitation on tribal lines thereby affecting adversely the law and order situation and the ongoing peace process. Requesting all sections of the Naga society to respect the unanimous resolutions passed by the State Assembly, political parties and the decision of the Cabinet on this issue, the committee made an appeal to refrain from any form of agitation on the issue as everybody would be given an opportunity to be heard by the Delimitation Commission before finalizing the delimitation exercise.
IGAR (N) review situation in Ghaspani area Dimapur, April 18 (MExN): The Inspector General of the Assam Rifles, North (IGAR-N) Maj Gen KS Sethi today visited the 42 Assam Rifles at Ghaspani to review the prevailing situation in the area and assured the public that the Assam Rifles will maintain peace and tranquility in the area.
A press release issued by the PI Cell of HQ IGAR (North) stated that the IGAR (N), during a meeting which was attended by the SDO of Medziphema, chairman of the town council and GBs of eighteen villages along with presidents of youth organisations, assured that the Assam Rifles is closely monitoring the developments in the area and that the Assam Rifles would leave no stone unturned to ensure peace and tranquility in the region and no threat to the life and security of the civilian is caused.

The release stated that the Major General of Assam Rifles opined that all civil agencies must put their best foot forward to help the cause of peace in Nagaland, which is the only way to ensure a wave of development in the state. The released further stated that Maj Gen KS Sethi inaugurated a medicine distribution camp at 42 AR camp area and expressed his optimism that such activities of which are beneficial to the people and which can ameliorate the pressing needs of the locals will be increased in the days to come.
Kuki Human Rights appeal to Home Ministry DIMAPUR, APRIL 18 (MExN): The Kuki Movement for Human Rights (KMHR), in an open letter to the Union Minister (Home) today, made an appeal stating “Please save hundreds of human lives of Molvom and Bungsang village from the NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) factional battle”. The open letter issued by the Chairman of the KMHR, Dr. T. Lunkim, stated that the two Naga factions had been fighting in the Kuki inhabited villages since the last few years including the recent ones in Bungsang and Serima Kuki village on April 11 and 16 respectively resulting in the wounding of two civilians and razing of seven houses. Citing news reports of large number of cadres from both the faction in Serima and Molvom and Bungsang villages in full preparation for a showdown, the letter added that the Indian Army were silent on the matter and some of the villagers had fled while others were detained as hostages. In the light of such a tense situation, the KMHR appealed to the Central Government looking after Home Ministry, to immediately intervene to save hundreds or even thousands of innocent lives, and the house buildings along with properties of the two villages.
NSCN-IM cadres charged for murder Public demand handing over cadres for justice The Morung Express

Dimapur, April 18 (MExN): One youth was killed at Singirijan, Dimapur last night reportedly by cadres of the NSCN-IM, on the pretext of being a drug-addict. The latest killing by the undergrounds this time led to vehement outrage with incensed public and villagers of Singirijan and Touphema placing the body of the youth in front of the NSCN-IM’s Hebron Camp and refusing to remove it until the cadres are produced to the public for justice, sources said.
There are conflicting reports regarding the motive behind the latest murder. A source said that the dead youth, from the Angami community, was shot because he was a drug-user. However, another public member said that the youth (unidentified till filing of this report) was heard ‘shouting’ tribal remarks against a particular Naga community to ‘go back’ and for this, NSCN-IM cadres appeared and killed him. The murder is informed to have committed in the Government Primary School area either late midnight of April 17 or in the wee hours of April 18.

Another source also gave a different version of the motive. It was informed that the youth was “arrested” earlier, along with three other youths by NSCN-IM cadres for reasons yet unknown. Over time the three got into a tiff with the cadres leading to the youth being shot. Later, the NSCN-IM authorities are said to have offered the explanation that “he was shot because he was a drug-addict.”
Still, another version said that the youth died from severe injuries inflicted on him by the cadres and not shot. The three youths are said to be from Touphema village. Whatever the reasons, the protesting public members, till late afternoon today set their demands to the NSCN-IM that the cadres responsible for the murder be produced immediately to face public action. The body of the murdered youth would not be removed until and unless, the culprits are produced before the public, it was informed. The police could only offer vague details of the incident, although police teams were dispatched to the scene of murder as well as to the protest site.
Former ‘CAO’ of the NSCN-IM laid to rest The Morung Express
Dimapur, April 18 (MExN): The funeral service of former “CAO” of Sumi region, NSCN-IM, Vihoto Chishi who was shot dead yesterday was held at the residence of the deceased at Thahekhu village, Dimapur today. Mourners thronged the service where eulogies were heard from cross sections of the people. After the service, his mortal remains were laid to rest at his residential plot. Late Chishi leaves behind his wife and four children.
Seen in the picture is the funeral service for Vijoto Chishi who was shot dead yesterday by unidentified gunmen, at Dimapur. Meanwhile, the NSCN-IM laments the “foolish act of mislead” who, an MIP note stated, would not gain from killing unarmed/non-combatants but only disapproval of the Sumis and the Nagas in general. The organization mourned the demise of the former “CAO” whose life was “snatched away from us by unscrupulous elements for their selfish ends.” The organization stated that such dastardly act merits no space in the society and deserves outright condemnation.
Late Chishi joined the movement in 1994, serving in the Naga army, and as Khapur-I 1995-96, as “FA-I” till 1998 and as “under secretary” 1999-2002. He also served as “dy. secretary” till 2005 and finally as “CAO” of Sumi region till 2007, the MIP note mentioned. He worked with dedication and selflessness till his last breath and fought against all odds in his commitment for the Naga cause, the NSCN-IM stated. His sacrifices will remain a “role model” for the Nagas to “follow suit” the NSCN-IM stated, hailing the fallen comrade. The NSCN-IM conveyed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that God Almighty grant them solace and also keep the departed in peace.
Condolence for Vihoto Chishi Dimapur, April 18 (MExn): The NSCN (IM) Sumi region today expressed their shock over the killing of Vihoto Chishi, former “CAO” of Sumi region, on April 17 evening at Dimapur. A condolence received here from the “CAO” of NSCN (IM) Sumi region, Huvito Yepthomi, while expressing shock over the killing, stated that the ‘deceased was a senior and a devoted “national worker,’” who had rendered his service towards the sacred cause of the nation till his death. The message further expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and further prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.The convenor of “Sumi national workers,” NSCN (IM), in another message, expressed grief and shock over the killing of Vihoto Sumi. It regarded the deceased as a sincere, dedicated and senior devoted “national worker.” “The deceased has rendered his services towards the bonafide cause of the nation till his death and sacrificed his life as a brave man” it stated.
The message added that the selfless and tireless services rendered by Vihoto Chishi shall be remembered and honoured in the history of the Nagas. The release further, on behalf of the convenor and the Sumi “national workers”, conveyed its condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed that God grants peace to the departed soul.
‘Talks reached a height’: IGAR Staff Reporter Nagaland Post
Medziphema, April 18 (NPN): The Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North) Maj. Gen. KS Sethi said the ongoing talks between the Government of India and the NSCN (I-M) had "reached a height" and that "even a solution is possible".
"The Government of India, especially the Ministry of Home Affairs, is much concerned about restoring peace in Nagaland and therefore, peace must prevail here," the IGAR said.
He was interacting with the elders of Bungsang and Molvom villages, Medziphema; affected by the latest spate in factional violence. Maj. Gen. Sethi claimed despite the circumstantial constraints of the jawans as they were required to operate under ceasefire, the Assam Rifles had been able to "curtail" the movement of armed underground functionaries in the State.
The IGAR advised the villagers to remain neural with the factions and take steps collectively to discourage movement of armed activists inside their villages to avoi clashes. Further, he insisted on furtherance of the existing ceasefires and to work for unity among the various Naga tribes for peaceful co-existence. On the Zunheboto clash, the IGAR said Assam Rifles had dispatched around 900 personnel to the affected areas to restore normalcy and claimed that the situation, though tense, was presently under control.
The IGAR also disclosed that NSCN (K) activists were currently trying to intrude into Dimapur and that he had forewarned the state government that "this area is soon going to be hot."
Further, the IGAR advised the villagers to take maximum advantage of the Sainik School at Punglwa in Peren district. Some of the village elders also expressed their deep concern over the clashes and called for cessation to the hostility. A host of senior officials of the Assam Rifles and about fifty village elders participated in the interaction. Earlier, the General was briefed about the security scenario by senior officials of the Assam Rifles.
Abetting inter-tribal conflicts deepening rift – NSCN (K) The Morung Express
Dimapur, April 18 (MExN): Adopting “colonial style of conquest” by abetting and fuelling inter-tribal misunderstandings and causing full scale conflict has resulted in greater division and chasm amongst the Nagas, the NSCN-K states. “Perhaps, IM gang would perish if the Nagas becomes united and most notably certain section at the helm of affairs in the IM would (lose) ground to common goal and interest of the Nagas” a note from the NSCN-K military wing observed.
According to the NSCN-K the NSCN-IM supplied weapons and trained the Changs to attack the Konyaks over a boundary dispute between the two Naga tribes, as a result precious innocent lives of these tribes were “unnecessarily made to perish. Similarly, Tikhirs were provided with “militia aid” to wage war against Yimchungers and currently devious policies are being formulated to create conflict situation between the Zeliangs and Sumis, it asserted.
“NSCN is being targeted for breaking this ominous silence, our effort to empower the people to rise in democratic revolt against such un lawful suppression is definitely a threat to IM’s existence, every Naga have every right to express one’s opinion in determination of Nagas fate as one Nation and people but these adverse elements out of their lust for power, wealth and worldly cravings is fully determined to enslave the Nagas with whatever it takes and as long as it goes, but for how long?” it queried. It also pointed out that properties and assets of NSCN functionaries including the Ato Kilonser’s are being made a “scapegoat” in venting their frustration in their ongoing intrusion effort at Zunheboto. “Several houses are being razed and blameless public terrorized around Ghaspani area, seven houses belonging to Kukis of Sirihma village was burnt down in revenge of high casualties and injuries sustained at the hands of People’s Army, NSCN, recently” it asserted.
“Despite all such provocations, People’s army is only focused in sustaining our national struggle and we shall not wage war against personal properties, assets or villages and tribes unlike IM gang” the NSCN-K asserted adding “in the nature of popular revolution as ours” is expected to be guided by “certain morals, philosophies and principles based on the broader interest”. However, steering the “revolution” solely for the purpose of promoting only the elite section at the centre stage undermine the real intent and purpose of the struggle.
Unite and reason, denounce violence– NSCN (IM) The Morung Express
Dimapur, April 18 (MExN): Unity is imperative for a common future which is essential for a dignified existence as a people. And the key towards attaining the goal is by denouncing all forms of violence and in unity, the NSCN-IM states.
According to a note issued by “Jt. secretary” of NSCN-IM MIP, Ghukato Assumi, Nagas should awaken to the sensitivity of the conflict and begin taking initiatives to integrate “emotionally, culturally and geographically.” Otherwise would mean doom “in our shallow and narrow minds,” he stated. “As violence begets violence which will not lead to the desired goals, we should reconcile and reason to enforce meaningful peace, fraternity and brotherhood” the NSCN-IM stated reminding that it is not external but internal elements manipulated by antagonists for crushing the people which is destroying “our hopes and aspirations.”
The NSCN-IM reminded that much suffering has been witnessed through the policy of ‘divide and rule’ adopted by India to subdue the Naga peoples’ aspirations for self-determination. “But has India or the Nagas gained anything out of the more than fifty years of conflict?” the note queried stating that thousands of innocent Indians serving in the Indian Army have lost their lives or have been maimed in the process of their forced occupation of “Nagalim.” Likewise, thousands of Nagas have been killed, maimed and tortured, women molested and raped, churches desecrated and defiled and human rights violations continue unabated, it added.
“There is no other option but to transcend the past and the present, thus extricating communalism, parochialism and regionalism and to face the reality of the future. Being aware of the predicaments but continuing to succumb to divisive elements of suppression will ultimately prove to be our common nemesis” the NSCN-IM warned. “We have to shed away hatred, hostility, suspicion and bitterness and embrace peaceful co-existence. A safe environment should be ushered in for confidence and trust-building. It is time we renounce the course of negativity and uptake commitment of straight honest negotiations through dialogue” it asserted.
UNC president resigns in Manipur Kuknalim.com
IMPHAL, April 17:: Two months after it sent six representatives to Manipur Assembly, the United Naga Council suffered its first casualty — its president. K.S. Paul Leo, president of the apex body of the Naga community in Manipur, has resigned from office, the speaker of the UNC general assembly, Samson Ramei, said today. Though Leo has cited “health” grounds as the reason for his resignation, sources said ramifications of UNC’s actions before the Assembly elections, held in February, may have forced him to take the decision.

The UNC had sponsored 11 Independent candidates from Naga-dominated Ukhrul, Senapati, Tamenglong and Chandel districts in the elections.

Though the results were hailed as a “success” by the UNC, sections of the Naga community “were not happy” with the controversy that dogged the electioneering and the selection of candidates in the four districts. Besides, the UNC’s “failure” to ensure that all the eight Naga Independent MLAs worked together for a “common interest” has been cited as one of the possible reasons for Leo’s resignation.
Immediately after the election, the apex organisation reportedly asked two Naga Independent candidates to work in tandem with the six MLAs sponsored by the UNC.

The apex organisation had also announced that its MLAs would sit in the Opposition . However, during the election to the post of Manipur Assembly’s Hill Areas Committee chairman last week, UNC legislator Khasim Ruivah filed his nomination for the post. However, he withdrew from the contest later. Thangminlien Kipgen of the National People’s Party was elected the chairman.

“Leo could have taken the decision to quit owning moral responsibility for the developments,” a source said. Leo is not available for comments. The general assembly of the tribal organisation is yet to accept his resignation. It has convened its general assembly on May 26 to discuss the matter. (Telegraph)
Many killed in NSCN factional clashes Newmai News Network

Dimapur, Apr 16: There have been intense gun battles between the NSCN factions in various parts of Nagaland killing scores of the cadres belonging to the NSCN-K in the last 48 hours.

Today, in a heavy exchange of gun fire one NSCN-K "Sergeant Major" was shot dead while another cadre was seriously injured. Reliable sources informed Newmai News Network in Dimapur that two civilians also got hurt in the clashes between the cadres of NSCN-IM and the NSCN-K today. The incident took place along National Highway-39 betwen Kohima and Dimapur at a place called Medziphema.

Further reports said that about 65 cadres from NSCN-IM attacked a group of NSCN-K at Serima village near Medziphema at around 8 am today.

Reports also said that the two civilians were from the Kuki community and they were treated at Civil Hospital, Dimapur.

The deceased "Sgt Major" of the Khaplang faction has been identified as Kihoto Chophy, son of Kivito Chophy of Kuhoboto.

In another clash today at Jail Colony area of Kohima at around 10.30 am three cadres were seriously injured but it could not be ascertained which factions they were from.

Meanwhile, fear psychosis has gripped Amiphoto Colony and its adjoining areas in Zunheboto district of Nagaland today following yesterday`s (Sunday) clash in which the NSCN (IM) killed six NSCN (K) cadres. Sources said on Monday that Assam Rifles and IRB personnel were out to disperse the cadres from the areas.

However, NSCN-K MIP Kilonser A.Z.Jami informed Newmai News Network over phone from Mon district of Nagaland tonight that only three cadres from his outfit were killed and two injured and rubbished the news reports in Dimapur based daily newspapers in today`s edtion which mentioned that six NSCN-K cadres were killed. AZ Jami who was former NSCN-IM`s MIP Kilonser but defected to the NSCN-K two years ago, has said tonight that Ato Kilonser (prime minister) of the NSCN-K Kitovi Zhimomi has lodged a complaint against the rival faction to India`s Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG) today with regard to the seizure of his house in Zhunheboto. Kitovi`s house was seized yesterday by the NSCN-IM cadres in the clash in Zunheboto district. AZ Jami also said that the NSCN-K will file a complaint against the NSCN-IM to the Government of India in this regard.
Five NSCN-IM cadres join NSCN-K The Moung Express
Dimapur, April 18 (MExN): Three NSCN-IM cadres belonging to the Huthrong Brigade of Senapati namely, “Sgt.Maj.” Selemba Sangtam, “Sgt.” Akabo Sumi and “Corpl” Chungsiba Sangtam joined the NSCN-K “to work concertedly for the Naga cause” a note from the military wing of the NSCN-K stated. They deposited one LMG, five 5 magazines and several rounds of ammunitions. Also, “Sgt.” Samuel of GHQ and “Corpl.” Among also joined the NSCN-K and deposited 9mm pistol with several rounds of ammunitions, it added.
“The cadres from Huthrong Brigade revealed the clandestine involvement of IM group in the kidnap and murder of two innocent school children Muheni Martin and Hriini Hubert” it stated adding that the cadres joined owing to discriminations and injustice meted out to non-Tangkhuls besides, high-handedness and “lack of transparency.” “Such diabolic practice is a common and routine affair in the IM, for which the Nagas has lost confidence” it added.
Meanwhile, the NSCN-K has reacted to the statements of Keditsu Angami “CAO,” Angami Region of the NSCN-IM over the recent killing of one Rokovituo. The “CAO” known for his habitual deception and is therefore expected to deny treacherous designs he masterminded to counter act NSCN, activities, refuting the “established evidence of the service rendered by Rokovituo to the IM and specially under his patronage demonstrates arrogance, pride and egoistic character who doesn’t have any concern for others except himself” a note from BC Angami, “commander”, Angami region of the NSCN-K stated.
“It is to be noted that, before awarding capital punishment, family members and community of the deceased were also notified but no such denial as published by Keditsu were brought to our notice, they only pleaded for clemency” it stated adding that the statement of Keditsu should therefore be treated as ‘complete fallacy with malicious intent to deceive the Nagas,’ it added.
realizing reality- Nagaland Post Opinion
All Naga people irrespec-tive of tribe or region have a common political aspiration. For this sole cause Nagas have been struggling against occupational forces for more than five decades now. Today, Indo-Naga political negotiations are underway.
The uniqueness of our history and situation, and our cause as a political issue has been acknowledged by India today. But do we (India & the Nagas) envision an amicable, acceptable and honorable settlement to out protracted political imbroglio? As long as double standard attitudes and policies of approach bereft of respect for each other's rights exist, it is doubtful that pragmatic solution will materialize.
Much has been experienced and suffered through policies of 'divide and rule' adopted by India to subdue the Naga peoples' aspiration for self determination. But has India or the Nagas gained anything out of the more than fifty years of conflict? Thousands of innocent Indians serving in the Indian Army have lost their lives or have been maimed in the process of their forced occupation of Nagalim.
India spends Crores and Crores of Rupees each year, funding their ambitious forced Military occupation of Nagalim, whereas millions of Indians living below poverty line go hungry or hundreds die out of hunger in its mainland. The arbitrary aggression of Indian Army upon the Naga people and its land has also inflicted heavy casualties upon the latter. Thousands of Nagas have been killed, maimed and tortured, women raped and molested, churches desecrated and defiled, and the traumatic stories of human rights violation by occupational armies continues unending.
But, though all sorts of inhuman atrocities, divisive machinations, psychological or physical military campaigns to douse the Naga people's aspirations were undertaken by India, the Naga people's determination continue to grow undyingly stronger day by day. India should clearly realize their past mistakes. The more undiplomatic tactics India employs, it will further alienate the Nagas away from them leading to establishment of not friendly but only hostile neighborly relationship. Nagas should also awaken to the sensitivity of the issue and begin taking initiatives to integrate emotionally, culturally and geographically, or we will be doomed to drown in our own shallow and narrow minds. As violence begets violence which will not lead to the desired goals, we should reconcile and reason to enforce meaningful peace, fraternity and brotherhood. It is not external but internal elements manipulated by antagonists for crushing Nagas that is destroying our hopes and aspirations.
There is no other option but to transcend the past and the present, thus extricating communalism, parochialism and regionalism, and to face the reality of the future. Being aware of the predicaments but continuing to succumb to divisive elements of suppression will ultimately prove to be our common nemesis. Proactive initiative to contain divisive elements guided by a vision for a future inspired by values of shared humanity is the need of the hour.
Negative attitude should be supplanted by constructive initiatives with purpose for an envisioned common future.
Reconciliation is a crucial factor in the process of building and sustaining a nation. The ways of the past has to be stopped once and for all and renewed non-violent approaches reintroduced and civilized dialogue established. The Nagas must involve a process of departing association with antagonistic ideologies and in in-stilling new values.
We have to shed away hatred, hostility, suspicion and bitterness and embrace peaceful co-existence. A safe environment should be ushered in for confidence and trust building. It is time we renounce the course of negativity and uptake commitment of straight honest negotiations through dialogue.
We have to unite in purpose for an envisioned common future essential for the dignified existence of a people seeking to be independent by understanding to constructively address the issues. It is only in the face of difficulties and hardships that the true mettle of ones patriotism is to be tested. Man wins laurel in conflicts but his greatness comes out only in the moments of crisis.
In this defining moment of history, Nagas have to awaken to the sensitivity of the issue with moral courage and political will and decisively face up to reality and acknowledge one's own self destructiveness. The only key to attain our goals is by denouncing all forms of violence and anti-national principles and to unitedly take up the common task in rescuing our political aspirations.
GHUKA TO ASSUMI Jt. Secretary, Ministry of Information & Publicity, GPRN, NSCN (IM)
Distortion of revolutionary philosophy- Nagaland Post Opinion
The prolonged rivalry between the NSCN and renegade group led by Isak and Muivah and frustrated effort of IM gang to crush the NSCN for the last two and half decades coupled with fruitless bargain with GOI, has forced the IM to adopt the last measure of offence.
Genocidal strategy upon the Khiamniungan tribe and the Kukis by the IM in the past is being re-oriented and systematically applied as is seen in the latest wave of bloody campaign across Nagaland.
Targeting innocent civilians and sympathizers, family members of NSCN workers, destruction and plunder of properties, arsons etc, aimed at demoralizing the morale of National workers amply exposes desperate survival offence of the IM, who are on the brink of collapse politically.
This trend of ideological bankrupt struggle explains their narrow sectarian ambition, hegemonic supremacy over territories and people using terror tactics rather then facilitating broad based ideological and political framework shows their urge for materialistic prosperity and "rule of terror".
Adopting colonial style of conquest by abetting and fuelling inter-tribal misunderstandings and causing full scale conflict has resulted greater division and chasm amongst the Nagas, for instance, this IM gang supplied weapons and trained the Changs to attack the Konyaks over boundary dispute between the two Naga tribes, as a result precious innocent lives of these tribes were un necessarily made to perish, similarly Tikhirs were provided with militia aid to wage war against Yimchungers and currently devious policies are being formulated to create conflict situation between the Zeliangs and Sumi brothers.
Perhaps, IM gang would perish if the Nagas becomes united and most notably certain section at the helm of affairs in the IM would loose ground to common goal and interest of the Nagas. NSCN is being targeted for breaking this ominous silence. Our effort to empower the people to rise in democratic revolt against such unlawful suppression is definitely a threat to IM's existence. Every Naga has every right to express one's opinion in determination of Nagas fate as one Nation and people but these adverse elements out of their lust for power, wealth and worldly cravings is fully determined to enslave the Nagas with whatever it takes and as long as it goes, but for how long?
It is only natural and expected of IM gang to unleash terror on the innocent public when ever their survival is at threat, several villages were burnt to ashes in Noklak and Mon areas besides cold-blooded murder of Khimnungan and Konyak people when they failed in their attempt to forcefully dominate these tribes in recent times, similarly innocent Sumi public was murdered when they retreated from Zunheboto in the year 2006.
Likewise properties and assets of NSCN functionaries including Ato Kilonser and senior Kilonsers are being made a scapegoat in venting their frustration in their ongoing intrusion effort at Zunheboto. Several houses are being razed and blameless public terrorized around Ghaspani area, seven houses belonging to Kukis of Sirihma village was burnt down in revenge of high casualties and injuries sustained at the hands of People's Army, NSCN, recently.
Despite all such provocations, People's army is only focused in sustaining our National struggle and we shall not wage war against personal properties, assets or villages and tribes unlike IM gang.People's movement in the nature of popular revolution as ours is expected to be guided by certain morals, philosophies and principles based on the broader interest, will and participation of the people, on the contrary, steering the revolution solely for the purpose of promoting only the elite section at the centre stage undermine the real intent and purpose of the struggle.
Military wing
NSCN(K)
Incredible India Rajinder Puri Outlook India
Consider the state of the nation. Then consider the political response to issues that confront it. India does not need miracles. India itself is a miracle: it survives. Consider the state of the nation. Then consider the political response to issues that confront it. Begin with the north-east. The entire region is bleeding from separatist insurgencies that started decades ago.

The National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) was founded in 1986. NDFB seeks a sovereign Bodoland. Within India it has links with the United Liberation Front (ULFA) which seeks a sovereign Assam. Outside India, NDFB has links with groups in Myanmar. Among other things, it propagates ethnic cleansing of Bodo areas.

ULFA was founded in April 1979. It has grown so strong that recently it could extract obedience from the Assam government over the issue of the National Games in Guwahati. It is most active in the wealthy tea-growing and oil-producing areas of Assam. Since 1990 ULFA has been linked to Pakistan's ISI which has given it arms and training. ULFA leaders receive sanctuary in Bangladesh. This year, 172 persons have already died in terrorist-related violence in Assam.

Nagaland has the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) which demands Naga sovereignty. It was formed in 1980. It is split in two -- NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K). Both outfits have governments in exile, receive foreign arms, and raise funds from drugs. In 2007 an estimated 46 people were killed in Nagaland's terrorism-related violence.

Manipur has two major separatist insurgent groups. The United National Liberation Front (UNLF) was founded in 1964 and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in 1978. Both seek independence for Manipur. The Manipur PLA seeks to unite the entire north-east under one revolutionary front. This year 99 people were killed in terrorism-related violence in Manipur.

In Meghalaya and Mizoram there are insurgent groups seeking separate statehood or autonomy. This year insurgent violence resulted in 24 people killed in both states.

Tripura has two main insurgent groups. The All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) seeks autonomy for tribals and expulsion of Bengalis from the state. But the other group, the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT), formed in 1989, seeks independent Tripura by armed struggle for liberation from �Indian neo-colonialism and imperialism�. This year, 14 lives were lost to terrorism-related violence in Tripura.

To retain the fiction of normalcy in insurgent areas the government for decades has allowed the army to operate alongside the normal civilian democratic process. This unnatural arrangement leads inevitably to army excesses. It alienates the army from citizens. Meanwhile the government's sporadic negotiations with insurgent groups make no headway. The government has no clear idea about the least it can accept, or the most it might concede. This abnormal normalcy has led to political parties colluding with insurgents for votes. Consequently, extortion and crime have spread. Insurgent groups have penetrated the government. Last week Outlook reported how Maoists obtained the minutes of a top secret meeting chaired by the PM.

However, Tourism Minister Ambika Soni announced last week that tourism will be promoted in the north-east by lifting curbs in restricted areas for tourists. Will the insurgent groups show restraint in dealing with them? Did Ms Soni discuss these measures with Home Minister Shivraj Patil before announcing them? Is Mr Patil in touch with the army and our intelligence agencies? Is anybody really in charge?

The various Maoist groups have created a Red Corridor across one third of the districts in India's heartland: their writ runs in the Corridor.
This year 178 people have been killed in Maoist-related violence. There is endemic insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir. This year 184 people were killed in terrorist-related violence in J&K. That is, an estimated 693 people have already been killed in India�s terrorist-related violence in 2007. All these figures are taken from the South Asian Terrorism Review, headed by Mr KPS Gill.


Most insurgent groups, regardless of ideology or stated objectives, cooperate with each other and with the LTTE of Sri Lanka. Most are known to have received arms and expertise from Pakistan, sanctuary in Bangladesh and Myanmar. Authentic official sources have confirmed that in the mid-1990s China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) was aiding and directing Pakistan to provide arms and training to insurgent groups in India's north-east. Has China's use of Pakistan as its proxy for destabilizing India ended?

One cannot say. What one can say is that this month the Indian police, quoting warnings by America's CIA, tightened security for the Dalai Lama. According to the police, the CIA had warned of an attack by the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) against the Dalai Lama, directed by a foreign organization. LeT's links with Al Qaeda, and the latter's links with China's PLA, have been confirmed in the past. In light of this, one must ask: what interest can Al Qaeda have in eliminating Dalai Lama unless a Chinese angle is involved?

And, what is the government doing about Kashmir? It continues discussion with Pakistan without any idea about its final objective. Simultaneously, it promotes SAARC in a manner that effectively kills the prospect of an EU-like South Asian Union ever emerging. It may be recalled that in Europe the NATO security treaty preceded the European Common Market. In South Asia, Pakistan and Bangladesh have defence treaties with China which are obviously directed against India. By allowing China and other powers to enter SAARC as observers, the government has succeeded merely in consolidating a billion-plus population market for them to exploit, while India wrestles with security problems created through SAARC neighbours.

Indian politicians are themselves busy dividing society. The government is obsessed with caste-based reservation in higher education while it ignores primary education. On April 10 HRD Minister Arjun Singh conceded that India was "still quite some distance away" from providing eight years of education to every child. For votes the government is tearing castes and communities apart: consider the government's poll-inspired gestures appeasing Muslims, compounded by the BJP's hate-Muslim policies. This, while the government is lifting curbs on Special Economic Zones without addressing the concerns of farmers: they continue to commit suicide.

Governance has collapsed. Law and order have disappeared. Corruption is rampant. A discredited CBI is wrestling with the Volcker case, the Bofors case, the Naval War Room case, and the Scorpene Submarine case. All these cases involve the government itself. And it is happening under a government with questionable legality. If the flawed Office of Profit Law is struck down by Supreme Court when Trinamool Congress MP Dinesh Trivedi's petition challenging it comes up, 50 to 100 MPs could be unseated. The UPA government could lose its majority. The judgment is expected before the presidential election in late July. It could rock the system.

India does not need miracles. India itself is a miracle: it survives.
Centre all out to make NE region a tourist hotspot Newmai News Network
Imphal
To further boost the tourism industry in the North East Region, the Union Government along with North Eastern Council (NEC) and Development of North East Region (DoNER) are on a war footing preparing to implement the various assessments for the development of the region with regard to the tourism.
The fourth sectoral Summit of the NEC to review tourism and hospitality industry in the North East is slated to take place at Gangtok, Sikkim on April 27 and 28 where DoNER minister and NEC chairman Mani Shanker Aiyer and Union Tourism Minister Ambika Soni will be addressing the event.
The fifth summit on air connectivity will take place at Aizawl, Mizoram on May 18-19 while the sixth summit on rail connectivity at Agartala, Tripura on June 15-16 and the seventh summit on education, sports, art and culture will be held in Imphal, Manipur on July this year.
Earlier, the first sectoral summit to review on power sector programmes in the NE Region was held at Pashighat, Arunachal Pradesh on January 16-17 with Mani Shanker Aiyer on the chair. The second summit on road sector programmes was held on February 8-9 at Shillong, Meghalaya while the fourth sectoral summit to review commodity boards, APEDA, inland water transport, flood and erosion control and irrigation programmes was held on March 9-11 at Guwahati, Assam. As the South Asia’s biggest business to Business Travel & Tourism Expo (SATTE-open world-2007) organised by the South Asian Travel and Tourism exchange is slated to take place at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from April 19 to 22, it is going to open a window for the North Eastern Region’s tourism to occupy a major slot in the economy of the region.
In the travel and tourism fair, the theme pavilion of the North East will feature all the eight North Eastern states in the 4-day Expo and in that connection Ministry of Tourism, GOI has informed to all the secretaries of NE states to participate along with the representatives of Tourism industry viz, travel agents and tour operators. The Union Ministry is said to have already hired a space of 300 square meters by allocating 35 square meters to each state and would bear the expenditures including electricity and water charges for the pavilion of the NE region. The trade show in India seems to have grown into the biggest attracting nation wide attention, support and attendance inviting tour operators from over-seas as international buyers. Up-till now the SATTE has hosted over 3750 tour operators from over 40 countries worldwide from Americas, Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, China, Japan and Australia. Unlike last year where 12 countries participated in the tourism show, this time atleast 30 countries are expected to participate in the expo.
Ulfa rebels on the run after crackdown: army Nagaland Post
GUWAHATI, (IANS): The Indian Army on April 14 claimed to have killed 48 guerrillas of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (Ulfa) since a massive military crackdown began in Assam in September, also choking their supplies and communication network.
"The Ulfa has suffered heavy casualties in the ongoing operations losing 48 rebels in separate encounters since September, with as many as 14 of them gunned down in the past two weeks alone," army spokesman Lt Col Narender Singh told IANS.
The military operations began on September 24 after New Delhi called off a six-week ceasefire with the Ulfa blaming the group for stepping up violence and extortions. In continuing raids by soldiers of a mountain division based in eastern Assam since the offensive began, 64 Ulfa rebels were apprehended and 32 more surrendered before the authorities.
The ULFA, which is fighting for an independent Assamese homeland since 1979, is blamed for a string of bombings and attacks in January, killing about 80 people, 61 of them being Hindi-speaking migrant workers. The army claims its stepped-up offensive and vigil have choked the supply routes of the Ulfa with the rebels under pressure. "The supply lines of the Ulfa for carrying rations, medicines and weapons have been literally blocked with continuous patrol and pressure mounted on the outfit," the army commander said. The army also claimed to have cracked the Ulfa's communication signals by using sophisticated jamming devices.
"The Ulfa is on the run and their backbone is almost broken with continuous pressure from our troops. We have broken their communication signals with the ULFA in total disarray now," Singh said. Intelligence reports earlier said the Ulfa had shifted its base from Assam to the jungles in adjoining Arunachal Pradesh, while many have sneaked into camps located in neighbouring Myanmar after the army offensive. "Even the Myanmarese junta have stepped up the heat against the Ulfa by launching a crackdown in selected areas," an intelligence official said requesting anonymity. On Tuesday, eight Ulfa rebels, including two women guerrilla fighters, were killed in a raid inside a densely forested area in Arunachal Pradesh.
The Ulfa in a statement on Wednesday said there could not be a military solution to the conflict. "Only a political dialogue can resolve the problem," Ulfa chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa said.
However, the Ulfa last month had rejected the Assam government's offer for unconditional talks and warned of stepped up violence, including using human bombs to attack selected targets.
Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi had offered unconditional peace talks with the Ulfa, aimed at ending close to three decades of insurgency in the region. The Ulfa said direct talks could be possible only if New Delhi agreed to discuss its core demand of sovereignty or independence, and release five of its jailed leaders.
‘Influx will turn State into another Kashmir’ By A Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, April 12 – Leading intellectuals of the State, who gathered at a meeting at the Paltan Bazar Srimanta Kristi Bikash Samiti Naamghar here on Tuesday, expressed their serious concern over the continuous influx from neighbouring Bangaldesh. They also warned that if allowed to continue unabated, this influx would ultimately turn Assam into another Kashmir in the near future.

Already, people and cultures of the countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Malaysia and states like Kashmir were tormented by similar influx of people of other religions. Assam has become the latest victim of this phenomenon and now this has been posing a serious threat to Assam and the culture of its people.

A planned campaign is launched to encroach upon the land of the sattra institutions of the State and the number of the encroachers is proliferating at a tremendous pace. This has been rapidly reducing the Hindus to minorities in the State. The encroachers have already killed some of the sattradhikars of the State. The indigenous women are also not safe in the areas dominated by these people, said the intellectuals while addressing the meeting.

The speakers at the meeting also resented the fact that despite a High Court order to evict the encroachers from the sattra land, the State Government had displayed inertia in this regard and alleged that a conspiracy was on to make Assam a part of greater Bangladesh.

They also criticized the ongoing process for delimitation of the Assembly constituency as a part of a grave conspiracy to rob the indigenous people of their hegemony over State politics.

To combat the menace, they suggested unity of the Hindus of the State, saying, only this could work as the panacea to the influx-related affliction of the State.

In addition to this, the speakers also laid stress on adopting an appropriate work culture by the indigenous people, besides mounting pressure on the Government to effectively check the influx problem. The meeting, which was presided over by former Commissioner and Secretary to the State Government Dr Rohini Kumar Barua, was addressed by former Director General of the National Museum Dr Rabin Dev Choudhury, former editor of The Sentinel DN Bezboruah, former editor of the Dainik Asam Dhirendranath Chakravorty, former Vice Chancellor of Tezpur Univiersity Dr Kishori Mohan Pathak, former Dibrugarh Univeristy Vice Chancellor Kamaleswar Bora, chief of the Srimanta Sankar Sangha Karuna Kanta Kalita, Asam Sattra Mahasabha president Bhadra Krishna Goswami, NE Haridev Sangha secretary Kanteswar Kalita, Eksaran Bhagawati Samaj president Dayal Krishna Bora, Advocate Kuntala Deka and noted writer Atulananda Goswami, among others.

AMSU`s anti-foreigner campaign begins The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Apr 17: A campaign for the protection of indigenous people of Manipur to be organized by the All Manipur Students` Union, AMSU kicked off today as part of the 27th Mitkap Thokpa Numit (Realisation Day) observations of the student body today. The objective of the campaign is to spread awareness among the public on the need for enforcement of inner line permit system to check influx of foreigners in Manipur. The Mikap Thokpa Numit is observed every year in memory of two student leaders, P Lukhoi and H Lokendro, who made the supreme sacrifice in the course of the anti-foreigners agitation in 1980 in Manipur.

"As the trend of larger racial groups dominating and assimilating the smaller groups in the world is not a new thing and one that is sure to extinguish the indigenous people of Manipur from this soil," the general secretary of AMSU, MS Helun Lupho said while announcing the campaign at the public meeting held at Pishum Chinga Macha Martyrs memorial complex, Imphal today. He also cited the example of Tripuris in Tripura where they have become minority in their own soil.

"The campaign will be in the form of street corner meetings, poster campaigns in every nook and corner of the state as well as seminars and symposia," Lupho added. The public meeting today also resolved to press the state government to implement the agreements reached with the AMSU in 1980 and 1994 for expulsion of outsiders from Manipur, with 1951 as the cut-off year.

Six killed in NSCN group clash in Nagaland Times of India

The AMSU observed its 27th "Realization Day" with rich floral tributes and homage at the martyrs` site located at the Pishum Chinga Macha, Imphal. Two students namely Potsangbam Premananda alias Lukhoi and Huidrom Loken Singh lost their lives in the anti-foreigner movement spearheaded by the AMSU on April 17 and 18, 1980. Students, womenfolk and public in their hundreds converged at the memorial site from early morning today to pay floral tribute and homage to martyrs site. Today`s function was attended by ex-president AMSU, RK Itocha, as chief guest, while Birendra Chingakham, current AMSU president, presided over the occasion.

Other former AMSU presidents, namely Bheigyachandra Samuphaba, Y Phuilkanta, Ksh Umesh, S Prakash, Y Priyokumar, and P Irabot, brother of P Lukhoi, and H Tollaba, father of H Lokendro attended as special invitees. In his address, the chief guest called for selection of the right path to bring a solution to the existing foreigners` issue, for which he appealed for better understanding, realisation and awareness among the public. Birendra Chingakham, in his speech, also emphasized the need for realisation on the part of the public, and called for their cooperation.