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09/05/2007: "APO makes stand on land claims “No other tribe ever existed in between the Angami tribe and the Zeliangrong tribe” The Morung Express"

APO makes stand on land claims “No other tribe ever existed in between the Angami tribe and the Zeliangrong tribe” The Morung Express

Dimapur, Sept 4 (MExN): In the backdrop of landownership claims from various sections following the ‘Jalukie Zangdi’ arson, the Angami Public Organization today issued a statement iterating that no other tribes existed, except the Angamis and the Zeliangrongs, in the affected area. The APO has also made clear that “no government worth its name” should indulge in razing houses of the people.
The APO executives in the statement mentioned that the Angamis and the Zeliangrongs are immediate neighbors “from the days of yore.” “As far as land possession in Nagaland is concerned the two tribes of Angami and Zeliangrong were immediate neighbors from the days of yore, having common boundaries and no other tribe ever existed in between the Angami tribe and the Zeliangrong tribe from the pre-British Indian time till today” the APO stated in a press communiqué issued by its President Mhiesizokho Zinyu, Vice-President T.L Angami, Assistant General Secretary Mhasivilie Nagi and Secretary Administration Ruokuoheu Miachieo. The apex Angami organization reminded that there has never been any “un-possessed” land such as “no-man’s land” in the Naga country.
The APO also registered its ‘grievous concern’ over the razing of 30 houses in Jalukie Zangdi village at the behest of the NSCN-IM’s “ministry” of kilo affairs on August 28 in connection with the land dispute between villagers of Jalukie Zangdi and Munglamukh. The organization has extended full support to the memorandum served to the NSCN-IM by the Zeliangrong community. “The APO is of the strong opinion that no government worth its name should indulge in the burning down of the houses of citizens” it stated.
The organization further expressed condemnation of what it stated was “atrocity” perpetrated upon citizens taking out a rally. It decried ‘the manner in which the district administration deployed IRB forces to suppress citizens who were seeking redress of grievances through peaceful means.’ The APO had met today in an emergency meeting where the aforementioned points of resolution were adopted.
NSCN (I-M) for table talks DIMAPUR, SEPT 4 (MExN): The NSCN (I-M) today said consultations through peaceful means, whereby an understanding can be arrived at by involving all parties, is the way to a pragmatic solution on the current land dispute between Manglamukh and Jalukie Zangdi villages.
“Solution will come out of sense, not out of emotion,” the organization’s MIP Kilonser, Tongmeth Wongnao, told reporters at Camp Hebron after a tour of the villages, and the area where structures were burnt down by NSCN (I-M) men on August 28 last. A hands-on inspection also revealed that most of the burnt structures were shoddily built and did not show signs of an organized village. Pointing out that things were blown out of proportion, the kilonser said frontal public organizations such as the Naga Hoho and the Naga Students’ Federation should have made on-the-spot verifications before coming out with condemnations.
Agreeing to a ‘humane approach’ in solving the dispute as proposed by the Naga Mothers Association and the Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights, Tongmeth said, “All parties should reason.” He said he had suggested that 2-3 vehicles carrying yesterday’s rally participants under the banner of the Zeliangrong Baudi should come forward to submit their memorandum under security cover of the NSCN (I-M). This proposal was reportedly rejected.
Tongmeth said the marchers who had taken great pains to peacefully demonstrate for their demands had been “successful” in placing their wants through the rally. Strongly advocating that communalization should be done away with, he said the organization’s ‘Kilo Kilonser’ and “Home Secretary” had acted not on the behest of their tribe, but for the NSCN-IM.
August 28 arson termed as handiwork of pseudoNaga national workers Newmai News Network
Imphal The Zeliangrong Union of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland has strongly condemned the burning down of Nagaland's Jalukiezangdi village on 28 August and termed it as criminal acts.
The Zeliangrong Union (AM&N) said, it was the handiworks of pseudo Naga national workers who are pursuing extremely narrow interest, who works for their own interest sidelining the interest of Nagas as a whole. The ZU also accused that a conspiracy to grab a land in the Jalukiezangdi area has been planned for quite sometimes by few individuals in the guise of national workers.
The ZU called upon all Naga responsible individuals and organisations to stand for the cause of justice at this moment. It also appealed the collective leadership of GPRN/NSCN to restrain the ranks and files of NSCN-IM from such act of arson and urged to compensate the damages caused by it and provide rehabilitation to the victims at the earliest. The ZU(AM&N) also called everyone to respect the traditional rights of the people, while saying that whatever dispute on any matter should be resolved through discussion and negotiations. However, the union urged all concerned to remain calm and also to use maximum wisdom till the matter is solved amicably.
Newmai News Network
Imphal, Sept 4: The All Tribal Students' Union Manipur (ATSUM) had sent a representation to four ministers of the government of Manipur giving midnight of September 9 dateline to solve the issues raised by ATSUM, after a lapse of one week time set by the government on August 19.
According to the ATSUM's representation, the long-standing unsolved issues includes reservation in the promotion of 31 Jamedars to Subedars; demand for the setting up of high level committee to look into the problems of the tribals in Manipur University to be headed by a senior cabinet or the state's chief secretary; demand for the extension of contract basis teachers where replacement was not given; opposition of setting up of NIT in the congested Imphal valley.
The representation also warned the government to be prepared to accept and take responsibility on whatever decision the student body take and any action the ATSUM initiate after that.
The four ministers whom the ATSUM addressed were K.Ranjit Singh (works), N.Biren (IFCD), DD Thaisii (TD) and L.Jayentakumar (Education).
Meanwhile, in a separate press statement, ATSUM endorsed the demand of Zeliangrong Students Union,Manipur (ZSUM) for handing over of construction works of Kaiphundai-Tousem road, IT roads via Kangpokpi-Tamei, Tamenglong-Tousem-Haflong road, and Tamei-Tening road to Border Roads Organisation (BRO/BRTF).
ATSUM noted, ‘after sixty years of Indian Independence, Tamenglong district still remains the most backward district in the state.’ ATSUM wonders as to why the government is still turning a deaf ear to the genuine demand of ZSUM despite the launching of a peaceful agitation by picketing the governmenr offices in Tamenglong for the last one month and bandh for three days which resulted to give the district administration paralyzed by the students body sponsored strike to a great extent.
The ATSUM also urged the government to resolve the stand off between ZSUM and the government within seven days from September 5, failing which ATSUM warned that it will not remain a silent spectator over the grievances suffered by its constituent units.
It also urgently urged the government to clear the landslides and mudslides between Churachandpur and Tipaimukh village along NH 150, as food stock for Tipaimukh villages had been stranded at various places between the places for the last 10 days.
WSYF says other tribes existed in Dhansiripar area Nagaland Page
Dimapur, September 4: Even as the Government of Nagaland continues to remain silent on the August 28 incident at Jalukie Zangdi village, where the NSCN (IM) torched some 30 houses, the situation in Dhansiripar Sub Division continues to remain very tense, with the danger of the situation flaring up at any moment with little provocation.
The August 28 incident coupled with the action of IRB and police on September 3 last against some Zeliang protestors has flared up the situation, with both parties to the conflict claiming ownership of the disputed land and threatening to protect it at all cost.
On September 3 last, the IRB and police lathicharged, besides firing tear gas and resorting to blank firing, to stop some Zeliang protestors from marching to Camp Hebron to submit a memorandum to the NSCN (IM) leadership.
In a statement issued today, the Western Sumi Youth Front outrightly condemned what it called the "fallacious claim" of the Zeliangrong Baudi (Nagaland), AZSU and ZSUN that the entire land under Dhansiripar belongs only to the Zeliangs and the Angamis and "there is no other between us."
The WSYF rather counterclaimed that it is ready to prove "in any manner" that there are other tribes existing within the said area.
"The claim of the Zeliangrong Baudi (Nagaland), AZSU and ZSUN is totally unwarranted and uncalled for with the sole intention of mislead the people besides trying to create communal tension," the WSYF said in the statement issued by its president, Kakiye Zhimo and press secretary, Mughavi Chishi.
Cautioning the Zeliang bodies to refrain from making such "highly provocative" statements, which will only create communal tension and tribalism, the WSYF, in the interest of communal harmony, demanded the Zeliang bodies to withdraw their "provocative statement immediately" and also apologize to all the other tribes living within the areas or else be held solely responsible for any untoward outcome or eventuality.
The Sema Kachari (SK) Union, Dhansiripar Sub Division, has also termed as false and baseless the claim of the Zeliangrong over the land of Dhansiripar Sub Division, saying there is not even an inch of land owned by the "Kacha Naga (Zeliangrong)" under Dhansiripar Sub Division.
In a memorandum to the NSCN (IM) collective leadership signed by 9 officials of the union, the SKU claimed that the Dhansiripar Sub Division is under Dimapur District and not in Peren District.
The memorandum appealed to the collective leadership to immediately intervene in the matter to restore justice and bring the issue to a favourable solution.
The Dhansiripar Sub Divisional Public Organization has also termed as completely unfounded the claim of the Zelaingrong community over the land under Dhansiripar Sub Division.
"In fact the Dhansiripar Sub Division was never under Peren District," it said in a statement issued by its president, Pibovi Chishi, Aqahuto Area Public Organization, general secretary, Zhekugha Sumi and president, Sema Kachari Union, Hosavi, Head GB.
On the September 3 incident, the DSDPO said it would not tolerate "such mis-adventurous action in our land, without permission."
The DSDPO further expressed its concern to the public leaders of Zeliangrong community that by bringing sheer numbers of public from "our neighbours" will not intimidate them nor solve any problems. (Page News Service)
Debate? NPF is only ‘angry’ – Cong The Morung Express

Dimapur, Sept 4 (MExN): Responding to the NPF’s challenge for a debate on the Naga political issue, the Congress is convinced that the regional party is only “angry” for being pointed out its ‘failures.’ “The Congress party is very clear of its stand on Naga political issue for finding a lasting solution acceptable to all sections of Naga people and also to develop a human and political relationship with all the groups by avoiding confrontation policies” the Congress explained in a response from general secretary Imliyanger. It was during the time of Congress government in the State which paved the way for the ‘peace process’ and after the Congress-led UPA Government came to power in the Centre the talk was elevated to that of a ministerial level, it stated.
“The NPF president seems to be expressing his anger on the Congress party for pointing out the NPF party failure on the promises made to the people to bring solution to the Naga political issue within three months if voted to power” the party opined adding that the NPF, have “lost the grip of people’s confidence” on the Naga political issue. Dr. Shurhozelie is expressing “common sense tell us that the Government can only facilitate and strive to persuade the conflicting parties to solve the long standing Indo-Naga problem” it asserted.
Further, according to the Opposition ‘the NPF is merely talking of the Naga political issue for the sake of grabbing power and nothing else.’ “The people should judge the seriousness of NPF contribution towards finding a lasting solution to the Naga political issue and with what courage and capacity the NPF president is challenging the Congress party for public debate on the issue. The NPF has no moral right to talk about bringing solution to the Naga political issue but they should remain silent, as it is a closed chapter for NPF party” the Opposition asserted.
On the law and order front, the Congress opined the NPF president “is responsible by terming the law and order situation to be a political problem and thereby restraining the district administration to restore normalcy whenever underground clashes takes place in thickly populated areas.” Such ‘mindless utterances’ has made the innocent public to suffer and paralyze the functioning of the district administration, it stated. “The NPF led DAN regime is marked by frequent underground clashes and the innocent public has to control the situation by risking their lives in absence of State Government coming to their rescue.”
The opposition also took a shot at NPF’s development assertions: The NPF president fails to understand that those buildings mentioned as completed were initiated for construction during Congress time and the inauguration was done during NPF-led DAN time, the congress observed. In fact, having concern for the growth of State economy, the State Congress is paving the way for the flow of various works programme to be implemented in the State through Central assistance, it asserted. “To remind the NPF President, development is a continuous process and through the generosity of the Congress-led UPA Government in the Centre enough funds are pumped into the State for developmental works and the NPF should not claim as their achievement”
“The Congress Party is determined to come back to power after the 2008 Election and to sincerely put efforts in finding a lasting solution to the Naga political issue besides implementing the developmental programs more efficiently in the State” it asserted.
NISC welcomes Nagaland Cong stand on integration The Morung Express
Dimapur , Sept 4 (mexn): While regional parties like the ruling NPF has expressed doubts over the recent resolutions passed by the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) on the Naga political issue, the Opposition Congress is getting support from the likes of the United Naga Council and the international human rights group like the Naga International Support Center (NISC). Congratulating the Nagaland Congress for adopting what it termed as a significant resolution urging the Government of India to work on clause 13 of the 16-point agreement related to integration of contiguous Naga inhabited areas, the Amsterdam-based NISC has invited all concerned to seize the moment and come together to close ranks while also stating that the recent Congress move “will elicit strong critique from opposing circles, circles which benefit from a divided Naga nation”.
The NISC in a press communiqué received here lauded the Congress, Nagaland, for its stand on the ‘reunification of the Naga homeland at this crucial juncture in time”,
Five killed in NSCN clash The Morung Express

Imphal ,Sept 4 (NNN): A factional clash between the rival NSCN factions has claimed at least 5 lives at Khundong Part II under Noney police station in Tamenglong district last midnight, according to official sources. Police sources disclosed that the clash between the two factions lasting till dawn claimed leaving 5 cadres dead. However, the police said that it could retrieve only 2 dead bodies of the NSCN-K. After the incident, the police team went to the area to retrieve the dead bodies but could recover only two dead bodies.
Reliable sources, however, disclosed that so far only two dead bodies of slain cadres belonging to NSCN-K were recovered while the other three dead bodies could not be found at the gun battle area.
The dead bodies have been identified as Kaneipou of Mukti village and Namdonbam of Namrong Bomdaijang village, both hailing from Tamenglong district, added the reliable sources.
Meanwhile, in a hand written press note, the MIP NSCN (IM) informed that the incident took place on the evening of September 3 at Alingsan (Khumdeng) under Tamei sub-division in Tamenglong District of Manipur. It was informed that the NSCN (IM) cadres were on patrolling duty when they came face to face with the Khaplang boys. In the sudden shoot out two Khaplang boys were killed on the spot and two seriously injured. The dead are identified as Mgamruap S/0 Lungsang Bamgaijang and Keiniphupan S/O Buisinpou of Muktikhullen. The MIP described the NSCN (K) cadres as “anti-social elements” in disguise under the mask of being national workers.
NSCN (I-M) plea Staff Reporter Nagaland Post
Dimapur, Sept 4 (NPN): The NSCN (I-M) Tuesday urged the NGOs to study the land dispute at Jalukie Zangdi village before taking any steps.
In this regard, NSCN (I-M) MIP Kilonser, Tongmeth Wongnao, urged the organizations and the hohos to visit Jalukie Zangdi for spot verification. “We want to be firm and develop peaceful co-existence,” said Wangnao. He said the motive of the NSCN (I-M) was to bring harmony among the different communities. Monday’s rally was a success for the Zeliangrongs even though they failed to meet the Collective Leadership. They have done their part, said Wangnao. Reacting to reports, he clarified that the inhabitants of the disputed area at Manglumuk were given three days notice ahead of the August 28 eviction drive.
10 KLA cadres killed in encounter by NSCN (IM) Newmai News Network

20Liberation Army (KLA) killed at encounter spot of Tangkhul Hundung in Ukhrul district by the NSCN-IM on Monday
Imphal The identities of the slain cadres belonging to Kuki Liberation Army (KLA) killed by the NSCN-IM cadres in Ukhrul district on Monday have been ascertained today. They are Tilsei alias Paulneo Khongsai of Saichang village (holding the rank of SDC), Jamkhongam alias Brian Tuboi (31) s/o Lelet, Lhunkholet alias Lelet Lupho of Zilphai village under Saikul sub-division, Ngamjapao alias Arjun Khongsai of Kammu village Lamlai, Ngamkhohao alias Steve Khongsai s/o Paoboi of Saichang village,Henkholen alias Jonah Kipgen (20) s/o Nehlun of Somphel village, Lalkholun alias Lewis Khongsai of Assam, Jimmy Vaiphei alias Saram of Sarampatong under Sadar Hills area, Hempao alias Roy Khongsai alias Papoa Lhanghal (35) s/o Thongkholun of Tuibong village and Lethkholal alias Vikhram Lhanghal of Churchandpur.
Mention may be made that the 10 Kuki Liberation Army (KLA) cadres were gunned down by the cadres of another hill bassed outfit in Ukhrul district on Monday.
According to the reports the incident took place at a place Tangkhul Hundung village, 30 Kms east of Litan police station in Ukhrul district at around 7 am on the day, according to the police source.
Reports received from the police source had it that cadres of the KLA outfit attempted to hijack a passenger vehicle and on learning the incident, cadres of NSCN-IM outfit tried to prevent it from taking away the vehicle and hence the encounter killing ten cadres of the former outfit.

Zeliangrong bodies demand resignation of IM leaders Newmai News Network
Dimapur, Sep 4: At least four Zeliangrong organizations today demanded im- mediate termination of NSCN (IM) Kilo Kilonser (Home minister) Azheto Chophy, Home Secretary, Bohoto Kiba, Convenor Steering Committee, Qhe-vihe Swu and immediate withdrawal of Chairman Isak Chishi Swu’s acknowledgement letter to Shikavi village dated May 30, 2007, where the land for the General Headquarters is wron- gly mentioned as donated by Shikavi village.
In a joint representation to NSCN (IM) Chairman, Isak Chishi Swu and General Secretary, Th Muivah, the Zeliangrong Baudi, Zeli-angrong Meipui Organiza- tion and All Zeliang- rong Students’ Union a copy of which was made available to the press today, stated that the blatant and deliberate incident of burning of Jalukie Zangdi has revealed all “our worst fears” about the sinister designs of forcible land grabbing is for real.
“Even more disheartening is unleashing armed cadres of the NSCN (IM) to execute destruction and burning of a defenceless village, not even sparing the granaries, which is an outright abuse of human rights,” the representation stated and questioned “Has this become the quest of our nationalism?”
The Zeliangrong organizations also took exception to the statement made by NSCN-IM leader Bohoto Kiba that ‘Jalukie Zangdi does not belong to the Zeli-angrong community but to the Mias and Kacharis’ and later suggesting that it was misquoted. They said, “If such a statement can be disclaimed so easily and defended by the NSCN, then how can the people be blamed for failing to have faith in what the NSCN say?”
Stating that the prevailing state of affairs and the deteriorating situation has compelled them to react to question the wisdom and logic of NSCN (IM), the representation stated that the traditional boundaries must be honoured, respec-ted and maintained, if not regarded, the very platform and foundations on which the Naga nationalism sta-nds will have no relevance. The consequences of such a mistake will be too high for the proponents of Naga nationalism, it added.
The representation was signed by Dennis Elung, President, Zeliangrong Ba-udi, Nagaland, Luikegong, General Secretary, Zelian-grong Baudi, Raitu Elu, Vice President, ZB, Zengdi Me-riam, Vice President, ZB, Akang, Vice President, ZB, Mirhu, All Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Nchahei-ng Kompoing, Assistant General Secretary, AZSU, Lungchui, President, Zelia-ngrong Students Union Nagaland, Kangzang Legi-ese, General Secretary, ZSUN, Adai Renunim, President, Zeliangrong Mi-pui Organization and Zaisi Ramlia, General Secretary, ZMO. The Representation further stated, “if human rights and well-established traditional territorial jurisdiction are forcible burnt down by our armed cadres disregarding human existence altogether, “our very existence is threatened’.”
Stating that the whole Naga community is aware of the factual situation, the Zeliangrong regretted, “our magnanimity and passive nature has been taken as a weakness to be exploited to the precipice of our existen-ce and our hospitality se- ems to have been abused.”
They further urged the NSCN (IM) to make the needed amendments for the greater Naga cause and cautioned the Zeliangrong people will be compelled to seek its own survival. They also appealed to the Naga family as a whole for solidarity and appealed to the Human Rights Commission to condemn such ghastly acts of burning houses and granaries, perpetrated on innocent villagers. They also appealed to a mechanism and system whereby they are guaranteed security of their land and people. They said that ball is in the court of NSCN (IM) to rectify and amend matters.
NSCN(IM) treachery says KLA, demands explanation for killings Nagarealm.com
IMPHAL, SEPT04 [IFP] : The Kuki Liberation Army, KLA has accused the NSCN(IM) of killing its KLA men treacherously in yesterday`s incident at Tangkhul Hundung village, and demanded an immediate clarification.

A statement issued by Addy Kuki, secretary, information and publicity, KLA/KLO, clarifying on the incident, said altogether 12 cadres, including the ten who were killed had been staying in Tangkhul Hundung Khunou village since August 31, together with NSCN(IM) cadres, and were gunned down all of a sudden without warning when they were about to leave yesterday morning. It said the KLA/KLO team led by home secretary Timothy Kuki had gone to the village after getting a go ahead signal from captain Ajo Tangkhul of the NSCN(IM).

It said the KLA/KLO and NSCN(IM) met at the village and stayed together for two days. Both parties agreed to leave the village yesterday morning, for which two jeeps were hired by the KLA. The NSCN(IM) men were in the first jeep and the KLA in the second jeep. When all the KLA cadres had taken their seats, one sergeant major of the NSCN(IM) ordered his men to open fire. Ten KLA cadres were killed in cold blood on the spot, but the home secretary of the KLA/KLO and one of his men managed to escape from the incident. The KLA/KLO asked the NSCN(IM) to clarify the reasons behind the killing of their cadres in cold blood, and warned that otherwise the NSCN(IM) would be responsible for any untoward incidents. Meanwhile, the bodies of the slain cadres were brought to the RIMS morgue this noon by a strong team of state security forces led by the Litan police OC for official identification.

The deceased KLA cadres were identified as Jona Kipgen alias Hemkholen 23 son of Nehlun of Songphel village Yairipok, Lewis Khongsai 21 son of Chungpao of Tamgsang cillage Saikul, Tilsei Khongsai 32 son of Thangkung of Saichang village Yairipok, Ngamjapao 24 Khongsai 24 son of Jamlhothang of Kamu village Moirangpurel, Jimmy Veiphei alias Lamgoumang 20 son of Khaipu of Salam Patong Sadar Hills Yairipok, Lemlet Luphang 26 son of Sajang of Zilphai village Saikul, Hempao alias Papao Lhanghal 35 son of Thangkholun of Tuibong Churachandpur, Vikram Lhanghal 27 son of Thangkholun of Patlen Churachandpur, Ngamkhohao Khongsai 28 son of Taboi of Saichang village Yairipok and jangkhongam 27 son of Lethang of Yairipok songphel village.

According to a reliable source, altogther 11 weapons with several ammunitions including two AK/47 Rifles, one US carbine, one G/3 Rifles one M-16 rifles, one SBBL gun, one LMG with magazines containing full live rounds which belonged to the slain cadres were taken away by the NSCN (IM) after the incident. In the meantime the home secretary of the KLA and another cadre who were assumed to be killed in the clash have been reach their tactical headquarter safely yesterday evening after successfully escaping from the spot.
Appeal to the speaker, NSF Extension of upper age limit and retirement age- Nagaland Post With reference to the matter cited above, I on behalf of the Educated Unemployed Union of Nagaland (EUUN) have the honor to lay down the following few lines for favor of your necessary action.
With the growth of ever increasing employment problem, the number of over-aged educated unemployed has also increased. But the upper age limit in Nagaland is 30 years which means that 30 years educated unemployed would become ineligible for government jobs in their prime time of life with all the educational documents they have. The upper age limit in other states are (1) Himachal Pradesh-40, (2) West Bengal- 37, (3) Maharasthra-38, (4) Andhra Pradesh- 34, (5) Jharkhand- 35 and (6) Rajasthan-35. The majority of the educated unemployed have become overage and their number keeps on increasing. So extension of upper age limit by 5 years from 30 to 35 years is the right direction. But, extension of upper age limit for service is not possible without extension of retirement age. Therefore, the correspondence extension of 3 years from 57 to 60 years for retirement age must be granted.
However, transparency in employment and arrangement of alternative opportunities for employment or self-employment opportunities are more important than the "upper limit" and "superannuation age". Because, the government can not be able to provide jobs to the majority of the educated unemployed people. So, provision of equality of opportunity in employment and selection of the best candidates in order to provide quality service to the public and creation of alternative opportunities for employment i.e. self employment opportunities are more important than the "upper age limit" and "superannuation age". Creation of self employment opportunities in industrial, agriculture and allied, tourism, and IT sectors would be the best solution to employment problem. Extension of "upper limit" and "superannuation age" alone will not be able to reduce over all employment problem unless the government formulates and implements clear cut policy towards educated unemployed. It must be noted here that the denial of the "right to equality of opportunity" in public employment envisaged under article 16 is the denial of the "right to life with basic necessities" and the "right to life with human crimes. Towards achieving this end, the EUUN submitted a memorandum to the Governor of Nagaland in which it had put forward the following demands.
They are:-
1. Six points demand (submitted to the PM of India)
2. Departmental Staff Selection Board
3. State Self Employment Board
4. Extension of "Upper Age Limit" and "retirement age"
Entering government service with bogus educational documents and tampering of age in the government service have added to the ever increasing employment problem. So, this evil practices must be stopped. I therefore, request your authority to place the matter cited above in the coming NSF Federal Assembly Session for decision which will ever equally benefit all the educated unemployed students' community and the government servants in the days to come. Achilo Thong, Acting president, Educated Unemployed Union Nagaland
What ails our democracy! The Naga prospect The Morung Express perspective
Through a succession of trials and tribulations and pressures from within and without, oursdemocmcy has survived all these momentous years. Its inherent strength is derived from such institutions as Legislative Assembly, a powerful judiciary, a vigilant media students’, vocal intelligentsia and an organized working class. All these factors notwithstanding, our Nagas democracy is still plagued by severa1 flaws. Just to mention a few, the system is riddled with lack of accountability, entry of criminals into politics, the dominant influence of muscle power and money power, pervasive corruption, oppression of women., tribalism and other marginalized groups and mobocracy masquerading as democracy.
Every one of us can be proud of its democracy, with all its flaws, surviving for more than sixty years. Gandhiji has said” My notion of democracy is that under it the weakest should have the same opportunity as the strongest”. The question we need to ask ourselves again and again is whether we are creating two society; one society where few manage to grab all opportunities and another society where a majority are reconciled to the pathetic condition of lost opportunities. For them, there is no democracy.
When we look at the mirror of the latest development regarding the shifting of New Riphyim and Doyang from Engtan Range i.e. 37 AlC, it is unjustified and unacceptable. New Riphyim and Doyang left bank are from the very beginning belong to none, but members of Englan Range. The extraction of the said vi1lages will give rise to chaos and anarchy because of its divide and rule policy. It is cleared that it divided the family of Englan Range into two constituencies i.e. 37 A/C and 39 AlC, which are opposed by all the enlightened citizens. In nitty-gritty, every democratic countries people can claim or demand their rights’ which is supposed to be theirs, for the wrongful done by the exploiters. True democracy are nothing but the voice of the people is supreme and above. .
The people of Englan Range are at all surprised at the pathetic state of the development given the fact that the government had over the decades’ failed to stem the rot until now.
I, fervently appeal to the high competent authority to retrospect and review the new draft working paper six. (6) prepared by the Delimitation Commission, so that our grass root democracy will increase as we aspire for.
We also strongly support without reservation to the Joint Action Committee of
Tribal Hohos for full implementation of Delimitation Act 2002, amended by Act 2003. We, therefore ardently request the DAN Government and the concerned authority to prompt down the rock-bottom and fulfill the aged standing demand as a compensation and short cut definition of the DAN Government’s slogan of Transparency, Accountability and Eco-closeness to the people so that democracy will be a welcome from top to the bottom-from Legislative Assembly to the panchayats.
R. Chanchi Kithan Wokha: Nagaland
Mongmong festival celebrated with fanfare, gaiety in Kohima The Morung Express
Sangtam womenfolk participate in Mongmong Festival celebrations at State Academy Hall, Kohima on Tuesday, September 4. (MExPix)
Kohima The Sangtam community of Kohima today celebrated their most important festival Mongmong here at the State Academy Hall with much zest and traditional gaiety. Mongmong is one of the most important festivals of the Sangtams. Mongmong festival, which means togetherness forever, is very cautiously observed every year and stretches over six days.
The object is to have a good harvest, food grains for which the villagers have toiled for throughout the whole year. The festival is observed in the first week of September every year.
The celebration, organized by the Sangtam Union Kohima Town (SUKT), was chaired by Liose, vice president SUKT while K. Chopimong, Associate Pastor SBLK said invocation prayer.
SUKT president L.T. Sangtam delivered welcome address while the significance of Mongmong festival was given by T. Athrise, Deputy Manager, NSMDC.
Greetings message was shared by T.C. Sangtam, IAS, Secretary Home and DUDA, Nagaland Kohima while Thripongse IPS, AIGP Nagaland Kohima and M. Sangtam, Joint Director, Employment and Craftsmen, Nagaland Kohima exhorted the gathering.
Folk song from Seothsing range and folk dance by Sangtam Women Cultural Society Kohima also marked the celebration. T. Yangthsingli, Associate Pastor (Youth) SBLK said benediction. The celebration concluded with a grand community feast.
Politics of defection: A chronic problem in Nagaland Column The Morung Express Dr. Maongsangba
The menace of defection is a national phenomenon in the Indian political system that appeared conspicuously in the post 1967 General Elections in India. The emergence of migratory legislators in the Indian political scene led to collapse of many Governments. The case of defections was reported even before the Fourth General Elections, but it did not attract the attention of the public nor does it affect the stability of the Government. The problems of individual defection was brought under control to a certain extend by the 52nd Constitutional Amendment, 1985. But the floodgate of bulk defection was legitimized by the Act. Taking recourse to these loopholes in the Act, defection of legislators continued unabated both at the national as well as in the state level. It was during the fag end of NDA tenure that Vajpayee brought about the 91st Constitutional amendment and a more stringent Anti- defection was put in place in 2003.
Even in Nagaland, all political party without exception, has been affected by this malady in the unbridle quest for power and offices; and there seems to be no stigma attach to party hoping. With the specter of a more stringent anti–defection Law 2003, looming large, seven Legislators in Nagaland deserted the Congress and joined the bandwagons of the ruling NPF, giving the much-needed respite to the DAN Government. This is not an isolated case of defection in Nagaland. Defection has been an integral part of Naga politics, a rule rather than an exception. All the 7 converts were welcome with an open arm by the DAN dispensation and suitably rewarded individually. Consider this- one was inducted as a Cabinet Minister with a juicy Portfolio. Second was honored with membership of Loksabha. Third was elevated to the House of Elders. The remaining VIPs were made Parliamentary Secretaries. Well, this was well within the ambit of Anti- Defection law 1985. There is no doubt about it. But the larger issue is the dimension of political morality. The most abominable act of defection is that legislators on getting elected, on the strength of Party Organization, Party resources and financial backing of the party more often than not, without compunction, crosses over to another Party and join forces with their opponents.
Let me recapitulate the history of defection in late 80s and the early 90s that destabilized the democratically elected government. The Congress for the first time in its electoral history scored an absolute majority of 34 seats in 1987. Hokishe became Chief Minister for the third time. But in no time, 13 Congress MLAs rebelled against his style of functioning, walked out of the CLP; joined hands with opposition NNDP and formed the Joint Regional Legislature Party (JRLP). The JRLP with a majority support in the House stake claimed to form an alternative Government. The Governor, General KV Krishna Rao played spoilsport and did not allowed the JRLP to form the Government but chose to dissolve the House and imposed President’s Rule in the state. That was 7th May 1988. This misadventure of NNDP and 13 breakaway Congress (JRLP) led to the formation of NPC.
The opportunism of the Legislators, cutting across party line came to the fore in the wake of 1989 General elections. Take a look. SC Jamir formed the Congress Govt in 1989. After eight months or so, KL Chishi took over the reins of power. Again after a month, the dumbstruck People in Nagaland woke up one fine morning to find a group of People mourning over the premature demise of Chishi’s Govt and elevation of Vamuzo to the hot Seat. A classic case of old wind in a new bottle! Between 1989-1992, almost all the elected Legislators had become Minister at one point of time or other. Three became Chief Minister. Three went on to become Deputy Chief Minister. All political party enjoyed power. Almost one third of Legislators were disqualified from the membership of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly. A classic case of politician gravitating towards power centres and archetypal case of defectors paradise no?
Let me paraphrase. The Congress received a clear mandate in the poll-1989 with 36 seats in its kitty. SC Jamir who got a marching order from the Congress high Command in October 1986 became the Chief Minister for the third time. This time round, 10 Congress dissidents MLA walked out from the CLP, joined forces with the Opposition, thereby reducing Jamir’s government to a minority. The migrated Congress MLAs along with 24 NPC MLAs propped up K.L Chishi, as the Chief Minister. This conglomeration was called the United Legislature Party (ULP). The senior most defectors, late C.Chongsen went on to become the Deputy Chief Minister. All the Congress deserters found a berth in the Ministry.
The NPC Legislators enacted the second part of the episode. 17 NPC MLA withdrew support to the Chishi’s Ministry; bid adieu to the ULP and joined hands with the Congress to formed the Joint Legislature Party (JLP). The most intriguing part of this episode was that NPC in connivance with their bete noire Congress assiduously schemed the ouster of K.L Chishi from the office. Vamuzo, a hardcore regionalist, who was down and out at that point of time, was resurrected and offered the Chief Ministership in a platter by the Congress. The Congress and NPC (minus KL Chishi) cobbled a strange Coalition Government known as Joint Legislature Party (JLP), under the leadership of Late Vamuzo. He offered the post of Deputy Chief Minister to IK Sema, and some senior members of the Congress were inducted as Ministers.
Now over to the third episode: Vamuzo became more assertive after his election to the assembly, uncontested, from Chizami assembly constituency. It became apparent that the JLP government was on the rocks, so much so that the short spell of marriage of convenience between the two strange bedfellows ended in divorce. Vamuzo continued in office as Chief Minister regardless. Congress realized that Opposition is indispensable in a parliamentary democracy and occupied the Opposition Bench. The Congress played the role of a responsible Opposition in all earnest, and work overtime to topple the NPC Government. Vamuzo got wind of the political maneuvering and in an unprecentended countermove recommended the dissolution of the assembly to pre-empt the Congress plan. Dr.M.M Thomas, the then Governor who reportedly had a personal equation with Chief Minister dissolved the House and thus, eventually brought the curtain down on the “Political Tamasa” (read) President’s Rule on 7th April 1992. All the dramatis personae that was instrumental in bringing down the Congress government in 1989 made a beeline to the Congress camp begging for Congress ticket in General Election- 1993.
In Nagaland, SC Jamir had sat a record, a rare distinction; of being the only Chief Minister to have completed two consecutive terms in office. Late Hokishe is also one, who managed to complete a full year term in office. Incidentally, both became Governor. The present incumbent is also inching towards to achieve the same fate as that of the two titans and in all probability, walk away with the Bronze Medal. But two towering personality in Naga politics who standout and remained loyal to their Party and unwavered in their principles in the face of rampant scramble for power and position in a faction-ridden Naga politics is--RC Chitten Jamir and Dr. Shurhozelie. The former is a Congress perennial- a confidant of late Mrs Gandhi, former State Congress Chief, former Deputy Chief Minister, former member SC & ST Commission and Party ideologue in the state, served four terms in the State Legislature and now gracefully retired from electoral politics. Dr. Shurhozelie is also one rare Naga politician, who never had ever crossed floor in his entire political career, spanning over forty years. He is a veteran regional party stalwart, the present NPF Chief, as well as the Minister for Higher Education, a renowned author, and without an iota of doubt, the Party ideologue. He lost only once in assembly elections during his entire political career. He also tried his hand in Parliamentary politics in 1999, but Congress steamrolled his plan. But winning and losing is a part and parcel of electoral politics. The duo of Chitten and Shurho deserve kudos! The current younger crop of politicians would do well to emulate and follow in their footsteps.
8 more ultras killed in Manipur From Sobhapati Samom
IMPHAL, Sept 4 – After NSCN-IM gunned down 10 KLA cadres on Monday, eight more cadres of two Manipur-based outfits were killed in two separate exchanges of fire today.

A combined team of Manipur Police and Assam Rifles shot dead three cadres of Peoples’ United Liberation Front including it’s commander in a pre-dawn encounter at the foothill of Keirao in Imphal East district.

Police said the incident took place when the combined team as part of their operation intercepted a Maruti Gypsy (MN 1A-3414) around 2.30 am in the wee hours today. “The militants travelling in the vehicle opened fire at the troops”, said Col L M Pant, PRO, Assam Rifles, adding “in the retaliatory and subsequent gunfight three militants were killed”. Though one of the PULF cadres was shot dead at the spot, two more cadres were killed at a nearby field as the area was immediately cordonned off.

During the search for the remaining ultras, heavy exchange of fire took place between the combined force and the suspected militants. All three slain cadres who were said to be members of PULF (Farooq faction) have been identified as commander Md Yusub Ali alias Ibocha , Md Akbar alias Firoz and Md Dr Sana. One AK 56 and one AK 47 rifle with a magazine each and 28 live rounds of AK rifle, one 9 MM (Beretta) pistol with magazine and the Gypsy have been recovered from the encounter site.

In another separate factional fight between NSCN-IM and NSCN-K, a total of five cadres including two NSCN-K and three suspected cadres of their rival group were killed at hilly Khundong village, around 20 from Noney police station in Tamenglong district on Monday, police sources told The Assam Tribune over telephone on Tuesday. Amidst this, Moreh remained closed for hours today soon after troops of Assam Rifles fired some rounds in the air while arresting a youth suspected to be a member of an insurgent group.
Assam police arrests prime accused in Guwahati blasts--- UNI
Guwahati, Sep 4: Assam police today arrested the prime suspect in the September 1 Guwahati bomb blast from Nalbari in lower Assam, while his accomplice was picked up last night from here. Police source informed that the prime accused Kamaleshwar Das (21) was arrested from Nalbari town early this morning. Das was alleged to have carried out the blast along with his accomplice Joonjyoti Sharma in Bamunimaidam area of the city, which left one dead and over 12 hurt. Sharma was arrested from Dispur area in the city late last night, police added. They have been suspected to be ULFA cadres.

Das had bought the auto van in Nalbari about a fortnight back and left it there. He returned on August 31 with Joonjyoti and appointed him as the driver. They fitted the bomb at Nalbari and left for Guwahati on September 1 morning. They parked the auto van at the site of the blast at about 1130 hrs and left. The bomb exploded after 15 minutes. Both were residents of Krishna Nagar locality in Japorigog area under Dispur police station of the city. Three other people, including the original owner of the auto van, were also arrested on Sunday and on the basis of their interrogation, Das and Sharma were identified.
Militant chief clarifies his stand ND TV Kishalay Bhattacharjee (Guwahati)
Unexpected visitors dropped by at NDTV's Guwahati office on Monday morning. It's not everyday that the commander in chief of a militant outfit walks in, and this one had an unusual request. He wanted to tell his side of a story NDTV had run last week. The Dimasa group commander asked to see a CD NDTV had aired which had visuals of two boys being tortured by kidnappers. A ransom call for 7.5 crore rupees from a Dimasa member's number seemed to establish the kidnappers' identity. But Dilip Nunisa now says that's not the case.

''We've seen from the TV that two boys are very much brutally beaten up. In this case some agencies blamed my group.

''My clarification is that no DHD and no members of DHD are involved, we are investigating as to who are involved,'' said Dilip Nunisa, Commander in Chief, DHD. The Dimasa group is covered under the ceasefire in Assam and the chief minister had reacted angrily to the contents of the CD.

''Everyone knows groups like this are engaged in extortion and they can go to any extent to extract money and they are inhuman. 'We will tell them if they don't behave themselves we have to withdraw the ceasefire,'' said Tarun Gogoi, CM, Assam.

When we contacted the police with the Dimasa group's denial they said they were sure of their information and the denial didn't change anything. But whether it was Dimasa or not the government seems to have done little to rescue the boys and there's still no news of them.




Apang accuses political opponents of assassination bid By IANS
Guwahati, Sep 5 (IANS) Former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Gegong Apang Wednesday made a startling revelation, accusing political rivals within the state unit of the Congress party of masterminding two unsuccessful attempts on his life.
'There were two attempts made on my life, one at the Indira Gandhi Park and another at my residence in capital Itanagar, by hired killers from Assam which I believe were done at the behest of somebody within my party,' Apang told journalists here in Guwahati.
He claimed the attempts to eliminate him were made in 2005 when he was the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh. Apang, now a Congress legislator, however, did not elaborate as to why he chose to make the allegations public now.
Apang was one of India's longest serving chief ministers and ruled the state for 23 years, spanning over five terms. He was toppled in April after 25 of the 33 ruling Congress legislators in the 60-member legislature voted against him and chose Dorjee Khandu as chief minister.
'I am not worried for my life despite attempts to kill me, with my opponents knowing very well that they cannot finish me politically. I had not sought any extra security while was I was chief minister and not even now,' 58-year-old Apang said. The former chief minister has been mired in a blazing row with police in Arunachal Pradesh pursuing a criminal case against him based on a complaint lodged by some locals. In a first information report (FIR) lodged with the police, Apang was accused of a nexus with militants, misusing office while he was in power, besides criminal conspiracy to defame powerful people while he was chief minister.
'On pursuance of the said case, the police have arrested important persons and forced them to make confessions to implicate me with a clear intention to arrest and humiliate me,' Apang said.
The Guwahati Court in response to a writ petition filed by Apang ordered a stop to all investigations in the criminal case by the police. He termed the case a 'political conspiracy' aimed at defaming him. 'Some of the people within the Congress party want to finish my political career. But I know and am positive that I will bounce back (become chief minister) again,' Apang said.
There were no immediate comments available from the ruling Congress party leadership in Arunachal Pradesh to the allegations levelled by one of the party's own lawmakers.