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04/24/2007: "Blame game over arson. Centre chides rebel factions for clashes in Dimapur Kuknalim.com"

Blame game over arson. Centre chides rebel factions for clashes in Dimapur
Kuknalim.com
KOHIMA/NEW DELHI, April 23The blame game over yesterday’s arson in Dimapur began with the NSCN (I-M) putting the onus on “vested interests” and the Centre pulling up both factions for not behaving properly. Sumi youths went on a rampage yesterday in Dimapur’s Tangkhul Naga Colony in Purana Bazar in retaliation to the torture of three youths allegedly by NSCN (I-M) activists. Some of the top NSCN (I-M) leaders live in the colony.
Dimapur district administration today clamped Section 144 CrPC to prevent further trouble.

NSCN (I-M) leader Kraibo Chawang told The Telegraph over phone that the Dimapur incident was manipulated by vested interests. He said the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim was looking into the incident. The NSCN (Khaplang) has also condemned the incident and requested the people to exercise restraint. Kughalu Mulatonu, a senior leader of the outfit, said the arson in Dimapur should not have happened and expressed solidarity with the affected families.
However, the Centre, expressing concern at the communal flare-up, believes that the incident is a fallout of simmering anger among the people over ill-treatment by rebel groups. Some unsavoury incidents in the recent past involving the NSCN (I-M) are said to have contributed to the arson on Sunday. New Delhi believes the incident was a fallout of people’s reaction to the excesses by the NSCN. “We blame both factions.”
Nagaland home minister Thenucho, along with senior officers, today visited the displaced families at Chumukedima near Dimapur and the colony at Purana Bazar. Sumi and Tangkhul Nagas are a majority in the NSCN (Khaplang) and the NSCN (Isak-Muivah) respectively and with Sunday’s incident, the NSCN (I-M) apparently stands to lose ground if tension is not stemmed. Neither police nor paramilitary forces deployed in the region were able to curb the arson where more than 30 houses were torched in Tangkhul Naga Colony. Nor could they prevent rebels from moving around the town with arms.

“We have observed that the state police did not act either in Dimapur or in Zunheboto recently,” said a home ministry official.

Assam Rifles personnel, too, were allegedly watching the clashes in silence, saying they were there only for “environmental security”. However, enforcing ceasefire ground rules squarely lies on the Assam Rifles as the paramilitary force’s inspector-general is convenor of the Ceasefire Monitoring Group and the Ceasefire Supervisory Board. (Telegraph)

NGOs take peace pledge Nagarealm.com
Dimapur, April23 [NPN] : A special emergency meeting of the Dimapur district administration with NGOs including Naga Council, Western Sumi Hoho, Tangkhul Hoho, Dimapur; and Western Sumi Kukami Hoho, held at the official residence of DC Dimapur here on Monday resolved that all parties involved or affected by Sunday's incident of arson at Wungram Colony would maintain peace and not allow the situation to aggravate further.

A joint resolution signed by DC Dimapur, KN Ngullie; Tangkhul Hoho, Dimapur president, John; Western Sumi Kukami Hoho president, Zalipu Sumi; Western Sumi Hoho president, Hokiye Sumi; and Naga Council president Savi Liegise said the members resolved to stand by the resolution in the interest of public peace and harmony. Further, the members resolved that efforts would be made for collecting relief from well-wishers in order to meet the immediate needs of the affected and displaced victims.

The meeting, convened by the DC, was also attended by Naga Hoho Speaker HK Zhimomi, women leaders Hukali and Mrs. Tiala Sapuh and also parliamentary secretary Hewoto Awomi.

AWO, AYO flay NSCN (I-M) Nagarealm.com

KOHIMA, APRIL23 [NPN] : The Angami Youth Organization (AYO) and Angami Women Organisastion (AWO) have condemned the recent "barbaric and inhuman treatment" meted out to three Angami youths by some NSCN (I-M) men led by one 'Maj' Meidi Tangkhul, which resulted in the death of Vilasielie of Razhape village and grievous injury to Pelesavi and Meguzetuo.

AYO in a press release said the quarrel which took place at Seluophe village on April 15 between some inebriated Angami youths and another Mao youth was a matter that could have been settled by the village authorities. However, Vaprahü Chakhesang and Adahrhü, Mao, secretary of Seluophe Village Council and president of Seluophe Youth Organization respectively, reported the matter to the NSCN (I-M) requesting the latter to "intervene and disciple the erring youths," the release said.

"The initiative of the two village leaders resulted in the NSCN (I-M) apprehending the youth, beating and torturing them which led to the loss of one life and maiming two others," the release added. While saying it would not remain a "mute and deaf spectator to atrocities, torture and killing of innocent public by national workers," In a separate press release, AWO general secretary Thepfülhukhono Peseyie and vice president Kevileno Luho expressed anger and anguish over the April 16 incident involving NSCN (I-M). "We strongly condemn the act of Commander Major Meide Tangkhul and his other colleague responsible for the brutal killing of Vilasielie and torturing of Menguzetuo and Pelesavi," AWO said.

The women organization conveyed condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed for early recovery of the injured. Both AYO and AWO also extended full support and co-operation to the demand of the Chakhroma Public Organization from the authorities of the NSCN (I-M).

Congress calls for imposition of 'Presidential Rule' in Nagaland By Oken Jeet Sandham - Asian Tribune -
Kohima, 24 April (NEPS): The Leader of the Opposition I Imkong has demanded today imposition of the President’s Rule in Nagaland following the total breakdown of law and order situation in the State. Talking to media persons here in his official residence on Monday, the Leader of Opposition lambasted the DAN government in the state for its complete inaction when the violence erupted in Wungrum Colony in the heart of Dimapur throughout the entire day on Sunday. Over two dozen houses were razed to the ground while dozens of houses destroyed during the mob rampage.
Leader of Opposition I Imkong addressing the press at his official residence in Kohima on Monday. Also seen is KV Pusa, MLA
Terming the incident as “very unfortunate,” Imkong said had the government tried to intervene timely, the violence in Wungrum Colony in Dimapur would not have reached such devastating proportions. “That is why we made a wake-up call to the government to maintain law and order,” he stated.
The Leader of the Opposition also said this DAN Government had the notorious track record of claiming that all factional killings that had taken place in the state were not law and order in nature. Although such incidents were very much a law and order problem, he said the incident in Wungrum Colony in Dimapur on Sunday had no relation whatsoever with the factions. “That was why we are demanding imposition of President’s Rule in the State,” he asserted and said “This is a total breakdown of law and order in the State.” - Asian Tribune -
April 22 mayhem unfortunate and ugly – Rio The Morung Express
Dimapur, April 23 (MExN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today termed as “most unfortunate” the incident which took place yesterday at Purana Bazar, Dimapur, where properties were destroyed by a mob that went on a rampage. “I regret to mention about the ugly incident which took place yesterday at Purana Bazar, Dimapur, wherein properties were destroyed and damaged in acts of vandalism which was most unfortunate,” Rio said while addressing the state consultation programme as part of YES campaign in Kohima today. There is no place for such acts of violence and vandalism in a civilized world, and such unwarranted and barbaric acts of violence must be condemned, Rio said. From time immemorial the Naga customary law was capable of resolving any conflict or dispute amicably, even to the extent of a murder cases, the Chief Minister reminded and appealed to all concerned to restrain all acts of violence and resolve differences through “our rich traditional customary institution.” “We must let good sense and reason prevail and preserve to co-exist and live in harmony as a people,” Rio added. Nagaland Home Minister Thenucho today also expressed regret at the whole incident that unfolded on ‘Fiery Sunday’ and at the same time expressed his gratefulness to the various NGOs and individuals who attempted to bring the situation under control. Thenucho, in Dimapur to assess the situation, expressed pain at the sufferings of the people especially the women and children. Also regretting the damage to properties he said that though materials may be destroyed ‘the future still remains.’ The minister appealed, at a meeting in Chumukedima, to the people to step forward and help the affected people. Also expressing their sorrow over the Sunday incident, independent Naga MLAs in Manipur today sat down to discuss the matter. After the meeting the MLAs appealed to all the “Naga brothers and sisters irrespective of their tribes” to refrain from such violence in order to maintain peaceful co-existence among the Naga brothers”. Sharing in the pain of the aggrieved, the MLAs further appealed all the Naga civil societies, Naga mothers, churches and the Naga general public to come forward and start working for maintaining a harmonious society. Mention may be made here that humanitarian aid came swiftly from the Catholic Church. Civil society from various communities, also commenced providing relief sooner did the situation began calming down. (With inputs from Newmai News Network)
Violence subsides but tension high in Dimapur The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Apr 23: Restrictions on the assembly of four or more people has been imposed under Section 144 CrPC in Dimapur town while the district administration held several rounds of discussion with the leaders of Tangkhul and Sumi communities to bring normalcy in the trouble prone two villages and its surroundings.

The DC, Dimapur has issued prohibitory orders in Dimapur and security forces are being kept on the alert round the clock in Diphupar village area and Purana Bazar (Wungram Colony) under Dimapur east police station in order to prevent further escalation of violence and to maintain peace and protect the life and properties in the said two areas, a report from Dimapur said today.

No further untoward incidents were reported today even though a tense atmosphere prevailed, the report said adding that police, CRPF, IRB and army have been deployed round the clock in the surroundings of the two villages. Security forces conducted frequent flag marches in the areas pointed out to be sensitive areas by the district administration, the report added.
Meanwhile, church authorities in Dimapur are providing relief for the more than 250 odd residents of Wungram, mostly women and children who were evacuated to NAP Training Centre in Chumukedima. Reports recalling the eruption of violence said that the assault on an auto driver belonging to the Sumi community on Saturday, allegedly by some members of the Tangkhul community, near Purana Bazar was the flash point for the outbreak that led to the burning down of several houses including at least 25 RCC buildings in Wungram colony. Other houses were mostly thatched houses and several lakhs rupees worth properties including eight vehicles were damaged in the violence.

Wungram colony in Purana Bazar within Dimapur town is mostly inhabited by top ranking NSCN(IM) functionaries belonging to the Tangkhul community. Among top ranking NSCN(IM) functionaries residing in the colony are the outfit`s army chief Hangshi, convenor Steering Committee Rh.Raising, Khayao Huray and several others whose houses were destroyed by the mob, which the police assisted by Assam Rifles found hard to control.

The orgy of violence which erupted since Sunday continued for around seven hours and the mob also reportedly recovered and destroyed two AK-47 rifles, one shot gun along with some live ammunition found in one of the houses. A box containing a large number of live grenades was also recovered from the house of a church functionary and was later destroyed by the irate mob. A report disclosed that there were around 63 live grenades in the box. Another report said that the violence erupted owing to the assault on one Abobi, 20, son of Ikisha of Purana Bazar, Dimapur.

The victim alleged he was assaulted by three Tangkhul youths when he disclosed to them that he was a Sumi. The outrage of the Sumis was further intensified when the assailants allegedly told him that "Sumis are Khaplangs," the report went on to say.
Sunday`s incident reminds one of a similar situation in 2005 when irate members of the Sumi community prepared to storm Wungram colony following the brutal killings of two Sumi youths, allegedly by NSCN(IM) members belonging to the Tangkhul community.

However, violence at this scale did not occur at that time.

Newmai News Network adds from Dimapur: In a positive development with regard to Sunday`s violent incident in Dimapur, civil organisations from the Tangkhul and the Sema communities today held a joint meeting in Dimapur. The meeting was also attended by the representatives of the Dimapur district administration. The meeting resolved that they will urge the Nagaland government to address the plights of the affected people. Security forces personnel were still deployed in Wungram Colony even as an uneasy calm prevailed today. CRPF, IRB and police personnel were heavily deployed. Nagaland home minister Thenucho, state additional chief secretary TN Mannen, Nagaland DGP J Changkija visited Wungram Colony today.

Meanwhile, more detailed reports have come in today with regard to Sunday`s violent incident at Wungram Colony. It has been confirmed today that altogether 39 houses were burnt while nineteen vehicles (all four wheelers) and a scooter were consumed by the fire on Sunday. It has also been said that properties worth crores of rupees had been destroyed by the fire. About Rs 2 lakh in cash was also burnt in the incident, according to reports.

Meanwhile, about 300 people mostly children and women folks were still sheltering at Chumekedima police complex near Dimapur today. They had been brought there yesterday. Meanwhile, expressing their shocks and sorrows over the Sunday incident of Wungram Colony in Dimapur, the independent Naga MLAs in Manipur today sat down in a place in Imphal to discuss the matter, according to MLA N Awangbow. After the meeting the independent Naga MLAs appealed to all the "Naga brothers and sisters irrespective of their tribes to refrain from such violence in order to maintain peaceful co-existence among the Naga brothers".

The Naga independent MLAs in the Manipur Legislative Assembly further appealed to all the Naga civil societies, Naga mothers, churches and the Naga general public to come forward and start working for maintaining a harmonious society. Terming the April 22 Wungram Colony incident as a tragic and unfortunate, the Naga independent MLAs shared the pains and suffering of those affected people who are being put up at the "designated shelter" in Dimapur.

NSCN(K) denies surrender report The Imphal Free Press

imphal, apr 23: The underground nscn(k) has categorically denied that any of its cadres belonging to the Zeliangrong region had surrendered to the nscn(im) during the last few days.

Reacting to news reports in this connection carried in some sections of the media that five nscn(k) cadres along with six members of the NNC held by a brigadier had surrendered to the NSCN(IM) with large quantities of arms and ammunition, the information and publicity in-charge, Nscn(K), said in a press conference this afternoon that the reports were totally baseless. The spokesman said the nscn(k) Zeliangrong region has investigated the report immediately today and confirmed that there was no such incident of surrender of their cadres to the nscn(im) yesterday or in the last few days. The spokesman further said the nscn(im) by informing concocted stories to newspapers was attempting to tarnish the dignity of the nscn(k). This clearly shows that the nscn(IM) is violating the ethics of journalism, he said and blasted the nscn(IM) for using newspapers as their weapons. Such unfortunate activities must stop, the spokesman said.
He said in fact the nscn(im) was in a poor position now as, owing to its blunder as to its final destination, the general Naga public have realised its failure in every sphere and hence have started non-cooperation against the nscn(im) now. At such a juncture, it is impossible for nscn(k) cadres to surrender to the NSCN(IM), he declared. He added that the people of the region would be the witness as to the truth behind the NSCN(IM)`s claims. He also said it would be better if some Naga ngos do investigation over the claims of the nscn(im), so that confusion in the minds of the people is removed.
Further the spokesman also appealed to the media to carry reports only after full confirmation from the authorities concerned, or from the spot to avoid public confusion and doubt.

Congress optimistic of landslide victory in coming election North East Press Service
Kohima, Apr 23 (NEPS): The Congress today expressed confidence that they would win the ensuing crucial Nagaland general elections by a landslide victory and were optimistic they would form the next Congress government in the state.
Speaking to the press here at his official residence on Monday, Leader of Opposition I Imkong said they expected to win 40 to 45 seats in the coming elections and further disclosed that they would field candidates in all the 60 constituencies in the state. Asked what would be the Congress’ slogan in the ensuing election in the state, Imkong said a draft committee for the election manifesto has already been formed and that it would be out next month.

Asked if he foresaw any violence in the coming general elections in the State, Imkong expressed trust on the Election Commission that the latter would provide sufficient security at the time of election. “We hope there would be a free and fair election,” he said and added “Of course, the coming election would not be like the last one.” He also disclosed that the Congress would not have any pre-poll alliance in the coming election in the state.
Naga civil society pained by Fiery Sunday storm The Morung Express
Dimapur, April 23 (MExN): A mournful Naga civil society today gathered in pained contemplation, shame, shock and regret over the April 22 mayhem. The meeting held this afternoon at NAP complex Chumukedima, saw representatives of frontline Naga civil society including the Naga Hoho, express vehement condemnation, appeal for restoration of a wounded Naga pride and regret. In the midst of the shock and grief, one message cried out: “We are one people, let brotherhood and good Christian sense prevail”.
A Western Sumi Hoho representative during the meeting said that they came to express their sadness and pain. Representatives from the Western Sumi GBs Association, Sumi Hoho and others were also in attendance. Home Minister Thenucho (along with senior state officials) also addressed the meeting. “Mon duk laga kotha kobole ahise. Bishi mon duk ase,” (We came here to share you words of sadness; our hearts are pained” said the representative. It was added that efforts are on to normalize the situation. A Naga Hoho representative said, “We should not allow this kind of situation to happen again” and asked the district administration and the Home Minister to take care of the affected people. A Western Sumi GB Hoho representative also said that they are cooperating with the district administration and appealed the people not to think in terms of tribe or on tribal lines. He said that they would help the affected community and also expressed regret and pain over the whole incident. Sumi representatives also said that the incident was a shock and out of the blue, so unimaginable that such happened.
Speaking at the meeting Chakhroma Public Organization president T Shuya cautioned that such upheavals as the ‘Fiery Sunday’ would not fade without serious repercussions. “Each and every Naga should refine ourselves and we Nagas being Christians, we should be rational for tomorrow will always have repercussions” he reminded reflecting the minds of the gathered leaders. He also called against communalizing the issue, for, today ‘it is a particular community’ tomorrow ‘it would be another’ that will fall prey to tribal madness. The Nagaland Peace Centre also expressed its sadness and pain about the mob incident. NPC Executive Director, Lhusi Haralu and Chairman, N Theyo, while expressing sadness and pain over the incident, termed the whole incident as ‘unfortunate’ and added that ‘those who have lost their homes which they toiled for lifetime to build, lost it in no time’.
The executive in a press note expressed its gratefulness to the NGOs, individuals and the church leaders who risked their lives to rescue the children and women to safety. The Nagaland Peace Centre condemned such acts of violence as that took place on the fateful April 22 Sunday and prayed to Almighty God for peace so that recurrence of such tragedy could be avoided in future. The NPC also prayed to God for peaceful relationship to prevail among the citizens.
A public appeal In a related matter a meeting held today, 3:00pm at Dimapur DC’s residence appealed to all affected parties to maintain peace and not aggravate the issue any further. The meeting, attended by the Naga Council, Western Sumi Hoho, Western Sumi Kukami Hoho and the Tangkhul Union while affirming to stand by the resolution, also resolve to organize relief efforts to meet the immediate needs of the affected/displace people. The DC also, in a note, appealed to the public, leaders and organizations, the church and business sections, to contribute/donate relief aid either in terms of cash or materials to the affected. The Naga Council and the Naga Women Hoho, Dimapur are authorized to approach individuals and organizations for the donations, an appeal from the DC stated.
Congress demands PR; resignation of Rio, Thenucho Morung Express News
Kohima Opposition Congress today, referring to yesterday’s incident at Dimapur, demanded resignation of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and the Home minister, Thenucho, and imposition of President’s Rule in the state on account of “total breakdown of law and order in the state.”
Talking to media persons at his official residence today, Opposition leader, I. Imkong, along with other senior Congress leaders, however, said it would await the return of Nagaland Governor K. Sankaranarayanan to submit a formal demand to the latter for imposition of President’s Rule in the state. Imkong insisted that the Chief Minister and Home Minister should resign as yesterday’s incident has justified that there is total breakdown of law and order. “This is a law and order issue and it can never be called a political problem”, Opposition leader said.
Describing yesterday’s incident as most unfortunate, he said it was ‘very disappointing’ that the state government’s machineries were just watching the lawlessness taking place. He also demanded that the government wake up and stop the lawlessness in the state.
Meanwhile, Imkong also disclosed that an eight-member Congress delegation had taken its demand for a CBI inquiry into the Transport Subsidy scam...

...and a Vigilance Commission probe into the Saijang construction scam to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi when they met them last week at New Delhi. The delegation also met Oscar Fernandez and Mani Shankar Aiyer. He said the high command has given a positive response and he expressed hopes of an early inquiry. The delegation also apprised the Prime Minister and Sonia Gandhi about the law and order situation in the state. The party high command has also assured that the situation in the state would improve after the change of chairman of Cease Fire Monitoring Group (CFMG). On being asked about the party preparation for the forthcoming elections, Imkong informed that the party would be contesting in all the 60 constituencies and that selection of candidates is already under process.
“We are prepared to go for election any time from now, “said Imkong. Maintaining that Congress will form the next government, he said the party would be satisfied with winning 40 seats. On being asked about the main slogan of the party, Imkong said that it will be drafting the manifesto and the same will be completed by May. A drafting committee has already been appointed, said MLA Congress Takamasa. Imkong was also hopeful that the Election Commission will provide enough force in ensuring free and fair election.
‘More to Wungram storm than youthful tiff’ Morung Express News
Dimapur, April 23 (MExN): Sources involved in the April 22 Wungram incident, today disclosed that there was more to the whole tumult than the beating up of a local auto driver which they claimed was merely the immediate cause of the whole matter taking a violent turn.
The source who did not want to be named stated that the situation had been festering for some time now with the residents of Wungram colony harassing the general public especially the people of Purana Bazaar, who were their immediate neighbors. The source informed that the road leading to the Wungram would be blocked after 6 pm by the residents and anyone entering it would put through heavy checking and thus regulating movement within the area. In this regard the residents of Purana Bazaar had served residents of a particular community in Wungram colony with a memorandum to vacate the area within seven days.
It was revealed that the several meetings and discussions held by the administration and the various NGOs have failed to address the real issue and bring about reconciliation between the two parties involved. There seemed to be a lack of specific strategies and steps to bring about a long-term solution to what can be termed a serious threat to peaceful co-existence which seemed to be far from over. Taking note of the volatile situation, one member of an NGO said that though the situation was under control at the moment, the numerous interest and different views involved in the situation prevented anyone from giving any assurance of the future.
In an effort to seriously review and deflate the prevailing tense situation, the Western Sumi Hoho will be meeting with the Purana Bazaar public today and a GB of the colony said that they would abide by the decision taken by the Hoho in tomorrow’s meeting.
AYO warns against atrocities on innocent public The Morung Express
Dimapur, April 23 (MExN): Vehemently condemning the ‘barbaric and inhuman’ treatment perpetrated on three Angami youths by one NSCN-IM “Major” Meiti and his cadres on April 17, Dimapur, the Angami Youth Organization has strongly cautioned the “national workers” that it would no longer remain a silent spectator in the event of atrocities, torture and killings of innocent public. A release from its president Kezhaser Angami and general secretary Seyiekhrielie Nagi stated that the April 17 incident was an anti-climax of a petty quarrel resulting in the death of one Vilasielie of Razhaphe Village while his two friends Pelesevi (from Razhaphe) and Menquzetuo (from Seluophe) were severely assaulted. “The quarrel which took place at Seluophe Village on April 15 between some inebriated youths and another person, was a matter that would have been easily settled by village authorities.
However, the secretary of Seluophe Village Council and the president of Seluophe Youth Organization respectively, reported the matter to the NSCN (IM) requesting them to intervene and discipline the erring youth. The “initiative” of the two village leaders resulted in the NSCN (IM) apprehending the youths, beating and torturing them which led to the loss of a life and maiming two others, the AYO stated. “The Angami Youth Organization will not remain a mute spectator to atrocities, torture and killing of innocent public by national workers. The AYO firmly stands by the demand of the Chakro Public Organization from the authorities of the NSCN (IM) and extends its fullest support and co-operation in demand for justice” it added.
Where do we go? Editorial the Morung Express
We live in a time where insanity has become the ruling norm. Though there is an air of complacency and indifference, it will be fair to say that people are tired and quite fed up with the direction that Naga society is headed. The rich get richer while the poor, poorer; there is lack of democratic accountability, complete absence of self-governance and hence good governance does not figure in and the ongoing political conflict, which is taking its toll on people. Then there are the every day headaches of having to face power shortages, corruption at every level of society and the tragic consequences on human life caused by the political chasm which has so affected the patterns of relationship and understanding.
Where do we go? Or Where are we going? These are questions that keep burdening the heart, a heart that yearns to see Nagas live together in dignity, exercising their independence with confidence and respect for others. The heart is anxious because Nagas seem to be in a vicious cycle in which the principalities of what constitutes evil is causing the break down of society. By principalities of evil, it implies the everyday happenings such as suspicion, distrust, hate, jealousy, disrespect and so on. In a time where majority of the people are just so caught up with survival issues, while those leading seem to only care for themselves, we must seriously ponder, where are we going as a people?
Naga history is embedded with a rich legacy and yet the rich history in itself is not sufficient for the building of the future. It does help lay the foundation and it needs to do so in a way that will build an understanding, an understanding in which our future is guided by a value-based vision. Similarly, the histories of the different peoples that constitute the Naga nation is filled with stories of many ordinary men and women who strived for the well being of the people in extra-ordinary ways; and yet today, we do not see those men and women. Where are they? And where are we going?
The present generation of Nagas needs to start assessing and taking initiatives that involves a commitment to truth. It is time that we renounce the course of negativity and embraces the earnest and practice commitment of straight honest talk through dialogue. This process must keep at its center the greater public good and interest, which means ending the influence of narrow interest representing the powers that be. The dialogue should lead to the articulation of Naga values with an emphasis on a return to ethical values and willingness to question right from wrong as well as to act selflessly by giving up narrow self-interest. It implies transcending parochial institutions and civil religion with the view of getting truthful about the issues that affect our lives. Our self-realization calls for a conscious move away from the adversarial and conceited politics that needs to be replaced with a commitment for statesmanship, which at its core has the will to listen act upon the issues and aspirations of the people. If present Nagas are to have a future of hope, the responsibility lies on us not to just live quietly, but to actively pursue the values that will make us live!
Sankaranarayanan to attend celebration Special Correspondent The Hindu
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Nagaland Governor K. Sankaranarayanan will visit the State to attend several functions from April 22 to 30.
He will also visit the Guruvayur temple. The Governor, who was a member of Kerala Assembly and Minister, is scheduled to attend the 50th anniversary of the Assembly on Friday.
The Governor attended the Santhi Mohotsavam of Prajapita Brahmakumaris Iswareeya Vidyalaya at Palakkad on Sunday. He will visit the Guruvayur temple on Monday and later attend a civic reception accorded to him in Palakkad. Mr. Sankaranarayanan will take part in the anniversary celebrations of N.J. Nair Trust at Palakkad on Tuesday. He will also inaugurate the Narayaneeya Mahotsavam at Thuravoor Mahadeva Temple, Cherthala. The Nagaland Governor will address the Navathi celebrations of the head of the Mar Thoma Church Philippose Mar Chrysostum at Thiruvalla on Wednesday. Mr. Sankaranarayanan will attend the 125th jayanthi celebrations of Brahmasree Shubhanandagurudeva Thiruvadikal at Cherukol, Mavelikara, on Thursday.
He will address the Calicut Chamber of Commerce on April 28 after a civic reception at the Aseervad auditorium. The next day, he will attend a reception to cooperator C.V. Ramachandran in Palakkad. Mr. Sankaranarayanan will leave for Mookambika temple on April 30 after attending a function at Jubilee Medical College, Thrissur.
Fresh fighting jeopardises ceasefire in Nagaland Times of India

KOHIMA: With renewed fighting among rival Naga underground factions fresh tension is once again mounting in the state with the people asking the government to actively intervene and urging the armed groups to vacate the populated areas. A fresh bout of internecine clashes has been reported from different parts of the state, resulting in not only casualties to cadre of both factions of National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN), but civilians too.
The state witnessed escalation of clashes during the past fortnight with reports of major clashes received from Zunheboto and Medziphema and skirmishes at Kohima and Dimapur, resulting in death of at least a dozen militants of both the NSCN group. However, each group accused the other of being responsible for the fighting and of receiving patronage from security forces.

The state government has expressed its limitation in direct intervention by police personnel, but claimed to have engaged NGOs and churches in pursuing the underground groups to stop fighting and adhere to the ceasefire ground rules.

Best of relations with northeast states: Gogoi Hindustan Times
Despite differences between the seven northeast states on the boundary issue they have "best of relations" with each other, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has said. "We have differences and disputes over the boundary. But inspite of that we are moving as brothers," he told reporters in Shillong on Monday night adding it would take time to find a solution to the problem.
"Nobody can say how long it will take ... But we are trying to solve the dispute amicably," he said. Assam has border disputes with Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland with most of them alleging that the bigger state was encroaching their territories. Except Meghalaya and Mizoram the other states have approached the apex court. Asked if he would take up the matter with his Meghalaya counterpart DD Lapang, Gogoi said discussions did take place and would be done again. "We involve local leaders and district councils... We are moving in the right direction."
CORE expresses ‘profound concern’ on escalating violence Newmai News Network
Imphal The Centre for Organisation Research & Education (CORE), Manipur has expressed profound concern on the escalating violence among the “indigenous and tribal peoples in the Eastern Himalayan territories of India”.
Co-ordinator of the committee Kinderson Pamei and its convenor Bikram Lairenlakpam while issuing a statement to Newmai News Network said that the reported attack and torching of certain “colonies” belonging to one “indigenous community” by some groups on Sunday at Dimapur, Nagaland was one more unfortunate instance reflecting the conflict that is characterised by unrestrained public hostilities fueled by narrow political agendas of a leadership that seriously needs review by all of responsible civil societies in this region.
“It has been widely reported that though the incident was apparently ignited by the beating of an auto-taxi driver, it instantly transformed into a tragic communal reactionary fuel that has resulted in a state of terror, with over 200 families particularly the women and children being forced to flee and seek shelter, and the irrecoverable loss of homes and properties”, lamented the CORE, adding, “it is apparent that the mere beating of a taxi driver could not ignite a violent reaction that is so nakedly communal in character and in a completely insane proportion that we have witnessed in Dimapur unless there is more than merely meets the eye. What exactly triggered this response may be traced, without prejudice, to a long series of actions, allegations, positions, threats and instigatory or punitive exercises by various interest groups and/or individuals. Ever since the cease-fire between the Indian government and one of the factions of the Naga peoples’ armed opposition groups led to peace-talks, over the past decade, we have witnessed one consistent factor. That factor is that armed clashes and vendetta-like hostilities, including assassinations, kidnappings and other forms of physical violence between different armed groups and certain indigenous communities seems to remain a common character of this uneasy truce in Nagaland”.
The committee then said that during the recent months, a quit notice was served and re-served by a group against one indigenous community, leading to a great deal of public concern and debate including various calls for restraint and reconciliation. All these public voices seem to have not only fallen on deaf ears but the whisper propaganda campaigns and racially discriminatory public remarks have gone on unabated. CORE had made a public press release (dated 30 August 2006), in response to this most damaging trend we are seeing in our region, urging for peaceful reconciliation and co-existence, reminded the committee. CORE reiterates that every human being is entitled to a life of dignity. CORE also appeals for restraint from coercive activities to propagate one’s own narrow, even extreme, agenda and interest. We calls upon all right thinking people to come out of ghetto living, fortress mentality and to shoulder the responsibility of indigenous peoples collectively and to make a corrective measures to contain the racist and communal political agenda that has been introduced within our communities.
Flow of arms, drugs hitting NE hard Nagarealm.com
GUWAHATI, April22 : Unabated flow of arms and drugs have become a serious problem in the Northeast and that needs immediate attention from the concerned authorities. This was observed by Binalakshmi Nepram, an activist working to raise awareness on the Arms Trade Treaty on Sunday at a people’s consultation organized by Citizens Collective.
It may be mentioned here that last year, 153 member States of the United Nations General Assembly had reached a landmark decision by voting in favour of taking the first steps towards a legally binding Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), to ensure comprehensive and effective regulation of international transfer of conventional arms. The States would be submitting their views to the UN Secretary General by April 30 on the feasibility, scope and parameters for a legally binding ATT.

Nepram said that the Northeast, which is home to over 220 tribes and various communities, was at present home to over 57 armed rebel groups, their activities making the region one of South Asia’s most disturbed areas. “ The proliferation and mushrooming of militant outfits in the region form a complex matrix,” opined Nepram, asserting that with no legal binding on controlling arms circulation, war weapons or small arms in common jargon, were in wide circulation across the globe and used by a cross section of insurgent groups in the Northeast.
Delving into the genesis of insurgency in the Northeast, Nepram maintained that from two armed groups about 50 years back that of the Nagas led by Angami Zaphu Phizo and the Manipuris, whose seminal seeds was sowed by Hijam Irabot Singh, followed by the Mizo insurgency in the 1960s to the United Liberation Front of Asom in the late 70’s, the insurgencies had a character of their own, as they all fought for secession. “ However the 1990s saw the ushering of a new phenomenon in the region and that was the taking up of arms by many other ethnic communities within the State boundaries demanding autonomy within the Indian Union,” observed Nepram, adding that more armed groups meant more small arms influx in the region.

Identifying the probable small arms route in the region, Nepram said that around 57 types of small arms were found to be in use whose origins were traced to countries like China, Pakistan, Belgium, Thailand, Russia, USA, UK, Bangladesh, Myanmar and of late Israel. “ What is happening in the Northeast is a cusp between guerrilla warfare, revolution and of late terrorism,” Nepram said. Earlier, welcoming the dignitaries, Dr Subhram Rajkhowa, said that if the world unitedly voiced for regulation of arms, the sorrows and trauma experienced by people on account of proliferation of small arms would be wiped away. Speaking on the occasion, Justice A.H Saikia of Gauhati High Court said that the ATT was the need of the hour, as it would give enormous strength to the movement for controlling arms race. [Assamtribune]
Three ULFA cadres shot dead in city By a Staff Reporter Sentinel
GUWAHATI, April 24: Three cadres of the banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) were killed in an encounter with a team of the Assam Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel at the Adingagiri Kalishola hillock under Jalukbari police station along the Asom-Meghalaya border here around 1.30 am last night. According to sources, acting on a tip-off that a group of suspected militants were hiding in a makeshift camp on the hillock on the outskirts of the city for last 15 days, a police team went to raid the hideout last night.
The ULFA militants opened fire at the approaching policemen, and in the 30-minute-long gun battle that followed, three militants were killed on the spot. They have been identified as Udhav Deka alias Sanjeeb Kalita (Naokata, Goreswar), Parameswar Deka alias Mrigen Dutta and Ganesh Kalita alias Goutam Sarma (Nalbari). Police recovered an M-20 pistol, a grenade, five live cartridges, 500 grams of explosives, plastic jars and incriminating documents from the slain militants. A senior police official said that this group of militants could have been involved in the abduction of Executive Director of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) Dr PC Ram from the city on the night of April 17. The police also claimed that the abducted official was handed over to another group of militants hours after his kidnapping from the city. Police, however, claimed that the official was alive in the captivity of militants who demanded Rs 21 crore as ransom for his safe release. Meanwhile, the police have also recovered two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from Adabari area in the city this morning.
Army gets device to track servers sending ULFA e-mail Sentinel
DINJAN, April 24: The Army is contemplating on tracking the statements being sent by the ULFA via e-mail. Mentionably, the banned group has been sending statements, including its monthly newsletter Freedom, via e-mail to journalists. The Army is of the view that, if tracked, the server from which the mails are sent can be found. A senior Army official told The Sentinel at Dinjan Military Station here that the Internet protocol address and TCP setting can lead one to the senders. And the Army is also contemplating on using a sophisticated programme called ‘eraser’ for this purpose. Eraser is a secured data removal tool, which allows anyone to remove sensitive data from hard drive by overwriting it with carefully selected patterns. Now, the Army has such a programme with which they can easily find out the data deleted from hard drive even after format or reformat. The Army has planned to track destination of e-mails and then retrieve the data from a remote server. Meanwhile, after the ULFA lost several of its cadres in upper Asom in recent offensive by the Army, the outfit is facing severe financial crisis. People who were earlier worried about ULFA’s extortion papers, are now defying the rebel group’s diktat. The rebel group is now planning to hit the economy of the industry by bandhs, protests and agitation programmes. Top Army intelligence sources said that the banned group has directed some pro-ULFA groups to carry out this agitation. The source also pointed that the series of agitations called by the People’s Committee for Peace Initiative in Asom (PCPIA) is also a part of the ULFA design.