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08/17/2007: "Forest under security glare - Large cache of arms seized from Abhayapur reserve OUR BUREAU The Telegraph"

Forest under security glare - Large cache of arms seized from Abhayapur reserve OUR BUREAU The Telegraph

Dibrugarh/Guwahati, Aug. 16: Abhayapur reserve forest in Sivasagar district has become the prime target for security forces in Upper Assam, with reports revealing that militants are using the thickly-wooded area to store explosives.
“Militants are using the reserve forest to stock up arms and ammunition for distribution to various parts of Assam. The arms are being smuggled in from Myanmar,” Col Narendra Babu, commanding officer of the 66 Field Regiment based at Sivasagar told The Telegraph. Most of these arms and explosives are entering Assam via Nagaland. The 5,000 square km reserve forest is located along the Assam-Nagaland border and militants are crossing the swallow Towkak river to cross over to Assam.
Security forces found a huge cache of arms from Singlopathar village, located on the fringe area of the reserve forest, yesterday. The cache includes one Japanese radio set, five grenades, three-kg RDX, 500 grams of TNT, 60 detonators, 103 rounds of AK-47, a camera flash used for triggering blasts, 75 rounds of 5.56 calibre rifles, 20 rounds of .22 pistol, 12 rounds of 9mm pistol and five rounds of pen pistol. A bottle of mercury, used for making timer devices, two bottle bombs and two diaries containing details of bomb- making were also seized. The cache was hidden in a bamboo groove.
Security forces busted a makeshift camp inside the forest a fortnight ago and seized a large quality of arms and ammunition. The official said security forces, disguised as forest guards, were keeping a constant vigil on the movement of militants along the Assam-Nagaland border.
“As the forest is infested with mosquitoes, our boys are having a tough time,” Col Babu said. He added that the militants had recently concentrated on stocking up arms and explosives near villages situated in the fringe areas of the forest after security forces launched consecutive operations.
“Earlier, the stocks were piled up deep inside the forest. But now they have changed tactics and are using places near the villages to stock up arms,” he said.
The officer claimed that some villagers were helping the militants ferry arms from across the border. “Our forces are looking for more such consignments, since we believe the Ulfa is using the route to transport explosives and may have hidden more such consignments,” Col Babu added. Intelligence agencies had earlier tipped off the security forces about Ulfa’s 28 Battalion trying to target police stations and important installations.
MPP see “threat” in Naga MPs memo Newmai News Network
Imphal Strongly opposing the move of the United Naga council (UNC) backed six MLAs and the Manipur Outer Lok Sabha MP in the recent times, the Manipur Peoples Party (MPP) today demanded a special Assembly session to discuss the matter. The MPP leaders said that the memorandum of the six MLAs and the Lok Sabha MP is a ‘big threat’ to the integrity of Manipur.
The signatories of the memorandum includes Lok Sabha MP Mani Charenamei representing Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, Dr Khasim Ruivah of the Chingai Assembly Constituency, Wungnaoshang Keishing of Phungyar Assembly Constituency, Danny Shaiza of Ukhrul Assembly Constituency, Awangbow of Tamei A/C, K.Raina of Tadubi A/C and Marung Makunga of Tengnoupal A/C.
While threatening to take up series of agitation the MPP leaders and MLAs met the Manipur Governor today in this regard and highlighted the contents of the memorandum of the UNC-backed MLAs and the MP which had been submitted to Prime Minister of India on July 18, 2007 in New Delhi.
MPP MLAs O, Joy, R.K Anand, Dr. Ng. Bijoy, Dr. Ibohalbi and its president Dr L.Chandramani along with one of the party executives informed media persons in Imphal this afternoon that they met the Governor of Manipur today and had requested to call a special Assembly session to discuss on the move of the six MLAs in endorsing the Naga integration.
The MPP leaders also met the state Chief Minister in this regard and stressed the need to call a special Assembly session to discuss the development as it has become a matter of urgency. MPP leaders said that the six MLAs and the Lok Sabha have been representing the people of Manipur but their very move to disintegrate Manipur is highly objectionable and this cannot be tolerated, the MPP leaders questioned whether these MLAs still fit to sit in the Manipur Assembly.
According to these MPP leaders, the Chief Minister has called an all-political parties meeting on Friday at 9 a.m and a Cabinet meeting on Saturday in this regard.The MPP leaders further said that the very move of the six MLAs is contrary to the “Article 208 of the Rules of Conduct”.
The MPP leaders also said that the contents of the memorandum of the six MLAs and the Lok Sabha MP submitted to the Prime Minister is quite similar to the demands of the NSCN-IM.
Mothers spit fire at rape, molestation incidents Kuknalim.com
DIMAPUR, August 16:: The Naga Mothers’ Association today vent fire at the increasing instances of rape and molestation as witnessed in the last one week in the capital, Kohima...

While expressing ire at the rape of a minor girl by a policeman, the NMA has also taken strong exception at the audacity of Border Road Task Force (BRTF) authorities in bailing out the culprits involved in the molestation of the wife of a prominent citizen.
“The raping of a Khiamniungam girl by no other than a personnel of the State police executive force, in the person of Raphungoyi Chakhesang is beyond comprehension for which, the NMA urges the Government not to release the culprit under any circumstances and institute vigorous punishment which should serve as an example even for future references, while also urging for proper rehabilitation of the victim who will be carrying this trauma for the rest of her life” demanded a statement from the NMA executive.
The Naga mothers lamented that even as the Naga society is reeling under a turbulent political situation, there seem to be no “let-up” of social evils and menaces, which has almost become a routine affair.
The NMA also took strong exception to the attitude of the BRTF in addressing the molestation of Indu Lotha, wife of politician and clergyman Dr. Rolland Lotha. The NMA stated: “To add more salt to all this injuries, the behavior and attitude of some of the officials of the 15 BRTF, Kohima, beginning from the perpetrators, namely, Mr. Jena, a Section Officer to the Officer in Charge, Mr. J M Chakraborty, Accounts Officer, in which the former molested Mrs. Indu Lotha, Senior Auditor of the same office/establishment, and later verbally abused the victim and all women of the Naga community, under our very nose, and in the center of our own home, i.e. Kohima, in a manner that cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.”
“And when this situation has been lawfully addressed and proper dispensation of justice was awaited, the Commander himself bailed out the two under-trails further aggravating the whole issue. Not satisfied with this whole provocation and insults, the culprits themselves filed counter charges on cooked-up allegations and got the victim momentarily arrested” the NMA stated. The mothers have demanded that the two culprits be rearrested without further delay and kept under the custody of law till proper dispensation of justice is awarded according to the fitness of the situation.
“The State police department also must use this as an example to discipline all ranks and files of the police force, many of whom have become nuisances to the society which need no elaboration” the NMA urged adding that such cases must be severely dealt with.

Who-dun-it? Conflicting versions are being received regarding the reported sexual harassment and molestation of the wife of a local politician, by BRTF officers. According to the BRTF, the alleged victim, Indu Lotha and her husband Dr Rolland Lotha “are behind bars for now.” While refuting the claims of Indu Lotha as detailed (in The Morung Express, August 16), the BRTF, in a rejoinder mentioned that an FIR was lodged in the North Police Station, Kohima, on August 13. A case was then filed in the court of the ADC (Judicial) Kohima. The court has already ordered immediate arrest of “the guilty and both husband and wife are behind bars as of now” stated the BRTF rejoinder. The BRTF further informed that investigations are being undertaken by Kohima’s North Police Station.
Nagas’ search for Justpeace Syo Peh Kwo Column The Morung Express
Members of human species, as individuals and as groups, contend over things that are scarce and therefore valuable and desirable, including territory, political power, opportunities etc. They also contend over matters of collective dignity, honor and respect. Conflicts around the world throughout the ages, whether waged peacefully or violently, reflect genuine and often incompatible demands of the contending parties. Psychological factors can be responsible for intensifying the conflicts, escalating distrust into collective hatred and lethal violence, compounding the task of achieving and maintaining compromised settlements. However, these manifestations should not be confused with the real causes of the conflict. It is the real issues of the conflict that must be addressed and resolved if any settlement is to be reached. In the light of this consideration, let us make a rational analysis of the protracted Indo-Naga conflict and put some cogent arguments as to what Nagas really want and what is that India could not concede. For what do they contend?
The Nagas are indigenous peoples who, for generations have been struggling for justice, dignity, freedom and peace. Basically, the problem is Naga’s resistance against India’s dominance. Simply stating, Nagas wanted to remain as Nagas and not become Indians and that was the problem. From the Indian perspective, India is the biggest democracy in the world which guarantees equal rights and status to all its citizens irrespective of race, caste, religion, etc. Accordingly, different ethnic communities had come together to form the Union of India as she attained her independence. Then, why Nagas alone, when different people with different cultures and religious practices across the sub-continent like the Kashmiris, the Punjabis, the Mizos, the Khasis, the Assamese, the Tamils, etc. had willingly joined the Indian Union without making much hue and cry? Why Nagas could not feel at home within India? These definitely are valid questions. Moreover, India claimed that she had inherited the erstwhile Naga Hills from the British. On the other hand, Nagas claimed they had never been a part of India and they wanted to remain independent when the British left the Indian sub-continent. Given the political consciousness of the Nagas, didn’t they have the right to determine their own future whether to join India or to remain independent from India? This is equally a valid question.
Now, accepting the genuineness of the needs and the perceived threats of both the parties, the contrasting responses to the problem is the area of interest for analysis. Through a mix of military and political measures and economic incentives, the government of India has tried—and failed—for years to solve the Naga problem. Naga nationalists were portrayed as renegades, misguided elements and terrorists. From a myopic viewpoint, Naga issue was deemed as a mere law and order problem. Therefore, under various legislations and black laws the Indian armed forces were given an unlimited power to take sole control of the situation. Consequently, having clothed with impunity and shielded from the view of the outside world, the Indian Army unleashed reigns of terror in Nagalim from mid 50s onward.
While the conflict is basically an identity based, the only strategy, if at all India had one in regard to Naga problem, was to crush the spirit of nationalism and let the Nagas accept forcefully the ascribed identity. Such approaches have tended to undermine efforts to address the specific grievances at the heart of this intractable Indo-Naga conflict. Seriously speaking, no Indian leadership has contemplated on resolving the issue in a democratic way. They have taken actions that only erode respect for the rule of law and human rights, while making negotiating effort even more difficult. From the Naga side, a long and violent revolt had failed to achieve the goal of political independence. Naga people have learned the futility of war which only leads to destruction of lives; violence that destroys human hopes and dreams; and breeding hatred that blinds us. Nagas realize the need for waging the conflict non-violently in a democratic way.
Notwithstanding the legitimacy to engage in violent confrontation, the cost of the conflict has far exceeded the goal. Not only the loss of more than 200,000 lives, has the conflict hampered all aspects of development thereby bringing bitter misery to the people. The conflict has caused a great loss to India too, in terms of lives, resources and reputation. And still peace eludes the area. It will not be wrong to conclude that the Indo-Naga conflict has been poorly managed by both the contending parties. The need for addressing the conflict through democratic and peaceful means has been felt eminently. Unfortunately today, Nagalim is a broken home: thanks to the selfish handiworks of the politicians, bureaucrats and Indian Intelligence, Nagas are fighting among themselves now. The shout for peace and reconciliation is often shattered by the booming sounds of gun battle. Deeply drawn in the politics of vendetta, incidence of abductions and killings among the factions has become an everyday event. The people are virtually divided between tribal lines. Many attempts by church and public leaders for reconciliation ended up in smoke. Given the history of bloodshed, the anomalies in the current cease-fire, the uncertainty of negotiations, and the tenuous relationship between the Government of India and Nagas’ factional forces, any peace initiative in the region could be a tenous one and risky as walking on a tight rope. In the wake of the ensuing peacemaking process undergoing a crucial stage, the need for defining and analyzing the issues of conflict from both the perspectives of the Indians as well as the Nagas is felt more than ever. At length, we may assert that, a one-sided and one-track approach to such intractable conflict can never sustain peace. Moreover, the dynamics of the conflict have undergone tremendous changes, entangled in the vicious cycles that solving one problem could lead to another complication, at any stage. The situation calls for a holistic approach to conflict transformation by addressing the underlying issues that generate the conflict and developing new rules of the game. As such, peacemaking can be a political process for social change. To bring about a just and durable peace, the process itself is crucially significant as to who participates, to what degree, at what stage and in what capacity. People have waged peace in the midst of war in diverse situations throughout the world. Crafting a viable peace is the work of many hands, involving different sectors of society and spanning generations. Peacemaking in countries which have seen decades of violent conflict – Latin America, South Africa, Northern Ireland, Philippines and Bougainville– they have one thing in common: People owning the process. Unless local people own the process with their indigenous capacities and help shape sustainable outcomes, peace would elude us again. Let the ill fate of the previous peace accords/agreements which failed to bring real peace in Nagalim always be reminder to us: Peace is never an idealistic dream of a perfect order, coming down from heaven; nor is it achieved by a quick fix solution to the problem. It has to be built, as Lisa Schirch envisages:

“when people take great care in their decision making to plan for the long term, anticipating potential problems, engaging in ongoing analysis of the conflict and local context, and coordinating different actors and activities in all stages of conflict and at all levels of society.”

Moreover, there should be a clear mechanism to implement the agreements reached that could create opportunities for structural changes in the governance, human rights, security and development policies as well as shape the relations between those engaged in the conflict. At length, peace is not a permanent state of happiness; nor can we define peace as total absence of violence, free from all vices. In this dynamic world of varied values and systems, peace can be seen as a change process based on relationship building. This new concept of peace called JUSTPEACE, coined by John Paul Lederach is defined as: an adaptive process-structure of human relationships characterized by high justice and low violence; an infrastructure of organization or governance that responds to human conflict through non violent means as first and last resorts; and a view of system as responsive to the permanency and interdependence of relationships and change.
Today, the public opinion too is evidently divided, misguided and ineffective to form a consensus goal in Nagaland, ravaged by the protracted war and torn by internal dissensions, assassinations and factional feud. There are people who are well settled and feel-good-to-be in India; some may want to negotiate some of the substantive issues with India, while some would just stick to the old maxim: ‘Nothing less than sovereignty’; some elements in the society who, for vested interest would prefer to let the conflict prolong and therefore, may even oppose all kinds of negotiations. Nevertheless, the general Nagas want peace in their land. I believe Nagas today value JustPeace more than anything: Peace that entails justice and restores the dignity of being a Naga. At this given situation, which of the above cited groups/categories represents the general will of the Nagas? My assertion is that Nagalim is a nation by any standard and Nagas have every right to determine their future. India has certainly paid a heavy prize for undermining the Nagas; at least, she has learned the lesson that it takes more than muscle power to make tough people like the Nagas to come to term with. Now, the question is: Provided the Nagas gained the right to self determination, what is the promise that the future Nagalim holds? How and where do we go? The NSCN (I-M), being the primary negotiating group in the ensuing Indo-Naga peace process, should come out with an open and a clear manifesto of their vision, the structure and the system of governance which could fulfill the long standing aspirations of the Nagas. On the other hand, Naga people should understand the fact that many ethnic groups in the world coexist together or form bigger and more powerful nations even as their respective identity is well maintained. They should not confine to the idea of a separate nation-state as the only answer to their quest. Here again my assertion is that, Nagas could also exist peacefully in India, or for that matter in Myanmar or with China, and still be Nagas within the system through mutual respect and recognition. The essence is that, if the case of separation is not viable, or untenable, it is far better to learn to live in peaceful coexistence than be at loggerheads. I believe both options are not in the realm of impossibility; but either way, a tough time waits ahead. The need for educating the people to understand the conflict from both the perspectives and capacitating them towards transforming the broken relationship has been greatly felt. It will be in the wisdom of the leaderships of both sides whether to face the reality and make history or fail a lifetime and leave the legacy of uncertainty to the posterity. It is my conviction that peace shall prevail in Nagalim through the ardent efforts of people across the boundary. India and Nagalim need to learn to live in peaceful coexistence. “The hope”, as John Paul Lederach says, “is rooted in the resiliency of people who, in spite of decades of obstacles and violence, keep taking steps toward peaceful coexistence with enemies.”
Assam and Nagaland border K.C Angami, Kohima Perspective Morung Express

It is known from the Ancient history of India that the sub continent India came under the British colonial rule from the second half of eighteen century and British administration rule was firstly set up in Bengal and Bihar under East India Company in 1765 (Ancient India, Page 4). The multinational caste of India became conscious of India to become an
Independence country, ejected to two Independence Countries from 15th August 1947, namely India (Bharat) and Pakistan in 2 parts, East and West Pakistan purely on account of arch-hole ethics, un-convictable religions between Hindus led by Jawaharlal Nehru, Indian Congress and Muslim league, led by Mohammad Ali Jinnah.
The convincing pertinent of creating two countries should have been done with the exchange of population, overlooking which the consequences are pouring into the situations to be continued in ‘generations with greater differences (lay man view). Secularism enacted in fundamental rights strictly deserving the definition of family establishment irrespective of religion as citizen of a country for control of population, in developmental programmes and national improvement. A group game in a play ground consists of equal number of players where a Muslim can marry 3 wives, producing dozens of children, sharing national wealth and electoral vote. Mohammad Osama Bin Laden has 3 dozens of children. Can a Hindu family under family planning imposed face Muslim family children? A Hindu living in a natural atmosphere should not be overlooked with a Muslim living in an additional atmosphere of ammonia, matching a Hindu vote equivalent 3 Muslim votes in practical point of calculation.
All the Northeast States adjacent to Assam are facing intolerable problems like border dispute, killing, raping, kidnapping, terrorism etc as if the world is ending and governance almost impossible with denizens confusing the meaning of nationhood.
Further, part, East Pakistan disintegrated to an independent country, Bangladesh, another Muslim country, the denizens speak pitch twisted Bangala, many serving in vote bank of Assam (Government now landing all the Northeast States entering through Assam, where the natives of Assam, Ahoms declaring honestly in their mother tongue “Tamul ghast ashe!. Am ghast ashe! (Mango tree), Pani kheti ashe! (Terrace Field), Sop ashe nohoi? Poyali! (Child helper, am I not having all?) Ki mon chenta! (What to worry), at the same time purposely delaying the National Citizenship Register declaration pending in the Government. Godrej almirahs in spite of Parliament approval whistling the western song- “Everything is decay-debut”. Any identity of Nagaland and Assam border dispute involving victims must be first declared/proved citizenship by Assam government, native of Assam are mostly Gogoi, Goswami, Bhuyan, Dutta, ete duplicate citizens are usually Mohammed, Ali, Heira, Khan etc whereas Nagaland by virtue of tribes. Presently, few years initiated NEC road inside Nagaland must be open on war footing basis for all the Nagas bordering Assam as per the British India rule records.
In reality the advance Sates are obligatory to show leniency manners and justice to less advanced Sates in returns for survival of the Nagas where hill top head hunters in the days of yore are no longer hunted realizing the value of their plains never to turn to the enemies of Ahoms under the Supreme authority of the centre. The monsoon devastation of the sorrow river of Assam can also be minimized to a great extent in irrigation and seepage process of water nourishing the vegetations of the forests.
The border problem under the same dominion of Indian union instead of wrestling in court of law prolonging the solution as suggested by Chief Minister of Nagaland and may please be looked into without throwing away old relations, brotherhood in order Nagas eyesore, Dimapur to Dimapur-I. Dimapur-II, Dimapur-III. Dimapur-4 etc to further live in peace-hood,
The Government of Assam is spending crores and crores of rupees taxing the Centre yearly for relief purposes for the migrants/undeclared citizens intentionally having in low lying areas and river banks with aims and objectives for relief funds every year. Are these Assamese patriots blind to floods inundations?
In facts, innumerable boat men are ready to accumulate their wealth in lower part of Assam from the devastations, debris of upper Assam during monsoon. Sometimes Pani Khetis are devastated, but seldom Tamul ghast, Am ghast are devastated for easy-go-lucky people of Assam patiently waiting for Bihu Puja.
Lastly but not the least, economic blockade imposed by All Assam Students Union AASU (In a local daily dated 10.7.2007) is an eye opener to Nagas, encouraging gardening and farming within Nagaland.
All the tribes are expert in rearing domestic animals including fisheries and complete stopping of import except oil and rice to enable money circulation within districts/State, so that street beauty workers/students to learn the art of living independently at the same time boosting the economy of the State on compulsory measures. Begging and bargaining are shame to the energetic Nagas, self sufficient is prestige for all the communities of the Nagas. The real meaning of economic blockade is to Assam with economic open to the Nagas for saving money to become rich, learning the needs completely in compliance to traditions. Stopping of importing tomatoes by Ao Senden for Mokokchung recently (Local daily) is a wise decision and highly appreciated. Nagas are yet to learn many things and teach their children. As per Statistical book of Nagaland, 2002 density of population is 73 per square kilometer. Though all the crops are not cultivable, each family can easily maintain a kitchen garden and stop many imports. Let the Nagas slumber no more, no further.
Two state drivers abducted from Dimapur released unharmed The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, Aug 16: The two drivers of LPG tankers abducted by suspected militants from Dimapur in Nagaland in the first week of August were released without any harm last night at a place in Dimapur with a warning not to come back again.

There were reports that the two drivers were released on August 14 at Dimapur but later picked up again minutes after the release and it was only last night at round 10.30 pm they were finally released.

They arrived at Imphal Thursday evening with the functionaries of the All Manipur Road Transport Drivers and Motor Workers Union who received them at Dimapur.

The two drivers ferrying LPG from Assam were abducted on August 3 and 6 from the Karbi gate bordering Nagaland by the miscreants in relation to a extortion demand from the Sekmai bottling plant as well as from the truck owners transporting LPG bulk.

"At the time of releasing us, the abductors warned us not to come back again till the matter is settled," the drivers said. The abductors did not explain the matter to be settled, they added.

One of the two drivers namely M Bormani of Yairipok was abducted on August 3 while the same militant group took into custody the other driver namely T Mingsang of Churachandpur on August 6 from the same place at Karbi gate.

The abductors did not disclose their identity and for what reason they had taken into captivity the two drivers, the drivers disclosed.

However, the drivers said they were not harassed in any way.

"We were kept in a house said to be their camp and ate together. But they didn`t disclose the place where they were staying with them," the drivers said.

Recalling how he was abducted, driver Bormani said that on the fateful day, due to some mechanical problem in his truck on the way from Imphal, he arrived at Dimapur at around 10 pm.

"While I was crossing the Karbi gate (popularly known as Assam gate) bordering Nagaland, two unknown persons jumped up on my vehicle saying they wanted a lift," Bormani said.

After covering some distance they told him to stop the truck at a place where a tata sumo was parked on the roadside.

"The unknown persons forced me to step down from my truck and go with them in the Sumo. After driving some distance they blindfolded me and after driving around 15 minutes they came to a house where they again unfolded my eyes. They ordered me to stay there with them," the driver said.

After staying for three days there the other driver, Mingsang was brought there and forced to stay together with him there, he added.

Mingsang also said that he was abducted from the Karbi gate and shifted there in a Tata Sumo.

He said that his mobile was taken away by the abductors even as Bormani`s mobile was returned. The abductors took away Rs. 500 in cash from Bormani.

However, a contradictory story was told regarding the abduction drama to the general secretary Gunamani, of the All Manipur Road Transporters and Motor Workers Union by those who handed over the two drivers. Gunamani was talking to this correspondent as soon as he along with the drivers arrived at their office at Khuman Lampak central bus terminus this evening.

"The abductors said to be cadres of combined KNV, NSCN (IM) and KRA handed over the two drivers to a team of the union last night at a place in Dimapur after informing them to come a hotel there," said Gunamani.

They were told at the handing over of the two drivers that they were rescued from the kidnappers from a place in Karbi Anglong jungle by the combined cadres.

They found the drivers at a house in the Karbi jungle where the kidnappers kept them after the combined team of KNV, NSCN (IM) and KRA raided the house, Gunamani said recalling what the cadres told him.

The functioning of the bottling plant at Sekmai has been disrupted for the last 10 days since August 6 following the abduction of the two tanker drivers by suspected KRA militants.

It is pertinent to mention that the Indane Bottling Plant Labour Union who organized a rally on August 10 disclosed that the two drivers were abducted on a demand of Rs. 20 lakh made upon the plant authorities by the Kuki Revolutionary Army, KRA. They had failed to get their release even after payment of Rs. 25,000 by the truck owners.

On what ground the drivers were released is still not clear.

As the abductors warned the two drivers not to come back till negotiations between the bottling plant authorities and the abductors is settled, it seems that the kidnappers freed them under unavoidable circumstances. The Manipur government had pressed the Assam Rifles to intervene for the release of the two drivers from the KRA in a joint meeting of the officials of the Assam Rifles, state police and the chief minister citing that the militant group was maintaining suspension of operation agreement with the army and Assam Rifles.
Gogoi asks ULFA to sit for direct talks By A Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Aug 16 – Asserting that violence was never a solution to any problem, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Independence Day reiterated his appeal to the banned ULFA to come for direct talks with the Central Government. “Violence and terrorism will lead us to nowhere. I once again appeal to the militant outfits, especially the ULFA, to come forward for direct talks with the Central Government in the greater interests of the State,” Gogoi said in his Independence Day address at the Judges’ Field on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, rejecting Gogoi’s offer to release five jailed leaders to facilitate direct talks with ULFA’s top leadership, the group today stuck to its demand for sovereignty as a condition for such parleys, a PTI report adds.

“Killing of the innocent is barbaric and sheer cowardice, and we condemn it in the strongest terms… The Government is committed to protect the lives and property of all the people living in the State,” the CM said and urged the people to put up a united stand against militants.

Gogoi also said that steps had been taken to intensify security in Karbi Anglong district. “Additional police stations and outposts would be set up in Karbi Anglong and other violence-affected places. We will take urgent steps for rehabilitation of the violence-hit families and take care of the educational needs of the children,” he said.

Using the occasion to give an account of the State Government’s achievements in different fields, the Chief Minister made a number of announcements that related to rehabilitation of the flood-affected, a grant for freedom fighters, grants for educational institutions, hike in pensions of freedom fighters, litterateurs and sportspersons, special measures for welfare of destitute homes, among others.

While the freedom fighters will receive a one-time grant of Rs 5,000 on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the country’s independence, their monthly pension has also been hiked to Rs 3,000. Artiste, literary and sports pensions have been hiked to Rs 2,000.

Expressing concern over the havoc wreaked by floods that had affected 67 lakh people of the State, Gogoi said that the next of kin of the 37 people who had died in the floods would get Rs 1 lakh each. The small farmers and fishermen would receive a grant of Rs 6,000 per hectare for rehabilitation of their cropland and fisheries respectively. Small farmers and agricultural labourers who have lost bullocks and buffalos will be compensated to the tune of Rs 10,000 per animal. Those who have lost land due to erosion and change of course by rivers will receive compensation of Rs 15,000 per hectare.

The Chief Minister asserted that the Government was committed to implement the Assam Accord and several steps had been taken to that end. “Roads along the Indo-Bangladesh border and the second phase of the barbed wire fencing are nearing completion,” he added.
Karbi Anglong carnage hits poor farmers By Surajit Khaund Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Aug 16 – The ongoing carnage in Karbi Anglong has severely affected ginger and sugarcane cultivations in the district. The hilly district plays a pivotal role in the field of horticulture and nearly 10,000 families are earning their livelihood by way of cultivating ginger and sugarcane. But, the prevailing law and order situation has pushed them into an uncertain future. The farmers have now decided to remain in their houses fearing more attacks from the underground groups.

According to official statistics, Karbi Anglong alone produces 1,92,000 MT of sugarcane covering an area of 5000 hectare while ginger production in the district stands at 12,000 MT per annum. However, 90 per cent of gingers are exported to northern India and Pakistan. What is more special is that the Karbi Anglong ginger has already made its strong presence in Pakistan market for its oil and aroma. But, considering the gravity of the situation the ginger market in the hilly district is likely to be seriously affected.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), which has been promoting organic ginger cultivation in Karbi Anglong, is also worried over the situation. Bidyut Baruah, North East head of APEDA, said that in view of the growing ginger market across the globe, APEDA has proposed setting up of a ‘pack house’ amounting to Rs 6 crore that would help the ginger farmers to a large extent.

“We had sent samples to Germany which are now under consideration, but if killings continue, it will send out a wrong signal to the German traders”, Baruah said, adding that similarly, sugarcane market has been badly hit due to ongoing violence. The officials in the State Horticulture Department felt that such killings would have impact on harvesting and transportation of ginger and sugarcane in Karbi Anglong. “The harvesting of ginger will be delayed as the farmers are now reluctant to visit their field”, the officials added. Saurav Gogoi, an organic farmer, had appealed to the underground groups to shun the path of violence for the sake of poor farmers. “As we have a big ginger market, we need to explore it by way of motivating the youths, but the present situation is not conducive”, he added.

Ginger is one of the earliest known oriental spices and is being cultivated in the Northeast both as a fresh vegetable and as a dried spice. Karbi Anglong is one of the ginger-producing belts of Assam. The Nadia and the Rio de Janeiro variety of ginger, which is produced in this area, is even supplied to Azadpur Mandi of New Delhi before being exported to Pakistan. The ginger produced in the area is organic and have less fibre content.
No freedom yet for bottled talks A STAFF REPORTER The Telegraph
Guwahati, Aug. 16: Ulfa has reciprocated Tarun Gogoi’s Independence Day appeal for “direct talks” in the manner it has done on previous occasions — with a heap of abuse and the old argument about “restoration of Asom’s sovereignty” being the key issue.
The latest edition of Ulfa’s monthly newsletter, Freedom, came with a fusillade of allegations against Gogoi, ranging from distortion of facts to doublespeak. The militant group said the chief minister was deluding himself by insisting on its participation in direct talks with Delhi without so much as mentioning “sovereignty”.
Ulfa said the government must make a formal statement on the inclusion of the topic in the agenda for talks before inviting its leadership over for a dialogue. The militant group claimed to have never shied away from talks and that the People’s Consultative Group (PCG) was formed merely to pave the way for direct negotiations. By implying that Ulfa has vested the responsibility of negotiating with Delhi on the PCG, the chief minister was distorting facts, the newsletter said. Ulfa also pounced on Gogoi’s remark that jailed militant leaders would be freed the moment the outfit agreed to come to the negotiating table. It said releasing five jailed Ulfa leaders, as agreed by Delhi during talks with the PCG, was his “moral duty” and not a favour.
Security forces came in the line of fire, too. Ulfa called them the biggest hurdle in the way of ending unrest in Assam. Gogoi’s appeal for talks was addressed to all militant groups. “I once again appeal to all the militant outfits active in the state, particularly the Ulfa leadership, to come for direct talks with the Centre to create a violence-free atmosphere for all-round development of the state,” he said.
Centre advises Asom to divide Karbi Anglong into 3 parts The Sentinel
KANPUR, Aug 16: The Centre has suggested to the Asom Government that it may consider dividing Karbi Anglong district, where the ULFA in the recent past killed 36 Hindi-speaking people, into three police sub-regions.
This was stated today by Minister of State for Home Sriprakash Jaiswal after returning from the tour of Karbi Anglong.
Jaiswal told PTI that he had sent his report to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil.
Giving details, Jaiswal said Karbi Anglong district has a population of around two lakhs of which 55,000 are Hindi-speaking people.
Once Karbi Anglong is divided into three police districts, Hindi-speaking people could have a separate police station and a Superintendent of Police (SP), he said.
“If necessary, paramilitary forces can also be deployed in that part of the district”, he said, adding that he has communicated the Centre’s proposal to Asom Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.
Jaiswal said that the majority of the 36 people, who died in the recent ULFA attacks, were from Bihar, UP and Rajasthan and their livelihood was mainly agriculture.
He said that while the ULFA targeted Hindi-speaking people, the local populace was living in harmony with them. “Such attacks would cease once they are protected as a group,” he said. The minister said, “The Centre has sent additional paramilitary forces following Asom Government’s request.”
Referring to the ULFA, Jaiswal said its cadres have got trained in Bangladesh and have their bank accounts there. “India has told the Bangladesh Government about this,” he said.
On infiltration from Bangladesh, Jaiswal said border fencing is nearing completion and arrangements are being made for electricity supply.
The minister, however, said it was impossible to completely end infiltration due to specific geographical conditions along the Indo-Bangla border. PTI
Indian, US troops to hold anti-terror drill in Mizoram Sentinel
New Delhi, Aug 16: India’s special forces and US Marines will hold their second counter-insurgency exercise in the army’s elite jungle warfare school at Variangte in Mizoram next month.
“This will be a follow-up to a similar exercise held with the Marines last year,” a top army official said here today.
Sixty US Marines and an equal number of crack Indian troops drawn from the Eastern Command will take part in the anti-terrorism drill lasting more than 10 days.
This interaction between the land forces of the two countries will follow the biggest ever multi-nation naval exercise to be held during September 4-8 in the Bay of Bengal, in which frontline warships from both India and the US will take part.
The counter-insurgency war game at Vairangte is part of the annual ‘Vajra Prahar’ series of exercises between the land forces of the two countries. It will be followed by a joint anti-insurgency exercise in a high altitude area in the middle of November, officials said. No venue has been fixed so far for the high altitude exercise, in which airborne elements will also take part, they said.
Last year, the two countries held such an exercise at Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir. (PTI)