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11/13/2007: "ULFA threatens to target Nagas passing through Assam Gives 3 days to NSCN (IM) to release 7 'abducted' ULFA cadres Nagaland Page"

ULFA threatens to target Nagas passing through Assam Gives 3 days to NSCN (IM) to release 7 'abducted' ULFA cadres Nagaland Page

Dimapur, November 12: The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) on Monday issued a veiled threat that it would be forced to target movement of Nagas passing through Assam if the NSCN (IM) fails to release 7 of its cadres, allegedly abducted at Tizit by the NSCN (IM) on November 11 last after a clash between the two outfits.
In an ultimatum issued to the NSCN (IM) today, ULFA's chief military spokesperson, Raju Baruah, gave the NSCN (IM) three days time to release the 7 ULFA cadres.
"We urge the NSCN-IM to hand over the 7 abducted ULFA cadres within 3 days. We have never disturbed the movement of Nagas through Assam and this incident is quite serious," the ULFA ultimatum said in what could be interpreted as a veiled threat that it would be forced to target Nagas passing through Assam if the NSCN (IM) fails to heed to their ultimatum.
"Tangkhul Nagas of the NSCN (IM) attacked and killed two of our cadres and kidnapped 7 more while our boys were passing through that area," it claimed.
The ULFA ultimatum to its one time friend, the NSCN (IM), comes in the backdrop of the report that the NSCN (K), ULFA, and UNLF along with other Manipur based militant outfits, are attempting to form a united front against India or Burma by reviving the now defunct Indo-Burma Revolutionary Front (IBRF).
When contacted, NSCN (IM)'s MIP Kilonser, Tongmeth told Nagaland Page only one ULFA cadre is in their custody while two ULFA cadres are under police custody. He also said he had not come across any ultimatum from the ULFA.
Reacting to ULFA's allegation, the MIP Kilonser said the ULFA cadres entered Nagaland without any information, as a result of which the NSCN (IM) cadres were forced to open fire on them. He said his cadres have every right to fire on any cadres of ULFA or other outfits that intrudes into their territory.
"We never went to Assam. They came to Nagalim without giving any information to our cadres stationed there," Tongmeth said.
The NSCN (IM) leader, however, said that it was not their intention to shoot the ULFA cadre, who was killed. He also denied that any NSCN cadre was killed or injured in the clash, as reported in the newspapers.
When asked whether the NSCN (IM) would be releasing the ULFA cadre, Tongmeth said, "He would be released only on our understanding and not on their ultimatum".
The MIP Kilonser further said ULFA has been old friends of NSCN (IM) and "they may be our future friends also," although it all depends on ULFA's understanding. He said it (friendship) would depend on the understanding of ULFA on the stand of the NSCN and not as per the understanding of their cadres, who acted in that manner on that day.
Commenting on the purpose of the ULFA cadres' entry to Nagaland, the NSCN (IM) leader said that they (ULFA) are trying to form the Indo Burma Revolutionary Front (IBRF) with the help of the Khaplang faction of the NSCN and other Meitei revolutionary groups and setting up their camp in Myanmar, which is a clear manifestation by the Khaplang cadres.
Meanwhile, in connection with November 11 shootout at Tizit, the GPRN/NSCN (IM) said that on that day, some ULFA cadres "pierced into their area" without informing the Naga Army security personnel, who are being posted in that very particular area, even though they (ULFA) are very much aware of the present situation of that area.
Stating that in shooting and arresting the ULFA cadres, the Naga Army/NSCN was not wrong, an MIP release stated that one ULFA man died, 2 are in police custody of that area and one is in their custody.
"As far as the cadre who is in our custody, he can be released at any time as per our understanding but not as per the ultimatum served by the ULFA that surfaced in some Assam based daily papers," the MIP stated.
Regarding the local student who died on the spot, the NSCN (IM) said that no one can claim that he is innocent. As per the account of the local people, he was seen and known to be with the ULFA many times in carrying out many past untoward ULFA's missions, it stated, adding he could be one of the informers of the allied forces informing them about the Naga Army staying in that area and carry out some devilish actions upon. (Page News Service)
Oct 3 incident not intentional: NSCN (K) The Morung Express
Dimapur, November 12 (MExN): The NSCN (K) today declared that the killing of some civilians on October 3 was not intentional and clarified that while targeting criminals the innocent persons might have been hit and killed. “It (October 3 incident) was not intentional, but while targeting the criminal some innocent persons might had been hit and killed,” said Akhone Chakhesang, CCM, NSCN (K) in a press release. Clarifying on the word ‘criminal’ the release said that the Nagas, men and women, young and old know that there are belligerencies among different factions which cause frequent around clashes here and there. In this regard, the release said that “the SS and Lt who was a deserter from PAN (NSCN) and who had been on the hit list was the target”.However, the release questioned why the ‘innocent’ civilians associated with the why those other persons killed in the said ‘shutout’ dared to closely associate with the ‘anti-national in their works’.
“When firing starts, the bullets do not know who is a criminal and who is innocent. As such, it is the responsibility of the persons concerned to be cautious and avoid associating or accompanying belligerent men in their movement because anything may happen unawares,’ the release asserted.
In this regard, the release said, “Who advised them the person to accompany or associate with belligerent group in their movement.”
Anyhow, the release expressed sorrow at the death of the ‘so-named innocent persons’ and at the same time opined that the Chakhesang people should not be so harsh on the NSCN (K) because of the unwanted incident. “Rather, my Chakhesang people are to apply their minds and understand the circumstances under which the incident occurred,” the release stated. The release further stated that there are so many killings in factional related clashes, in the cross firings, killings under mistaken identities etc, and therefore wondered why the Chakhesang people should demand another explanation on the October 3 incident from the NSCN (K).
Konyak students condemn The Morung Express
DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 12 (MExN): The Konyak Students’ Union vehemently condemns the November 7 incident at Wanching village, where a group of NSCN (K) cadres led by one SS Col. Peyong, physically assaulted seven village elders with rifle butts and bamboo sticks, without any rhyme or reason further imposing a curfew upon the village from 8:00pm to 4:00am.
The Union expresses its strong resentment to the inhuman and terrorizing act being perpetrated by the organization. The press release issued by KSU president, Manpong Konyak said “whatever might have been the reason; such act is unbecoming of and does not justify the stand of the organization, which professes to fight for the national cause.”
NSCN(I-M) blames ULFA for clash The Hindu
Kohima (PTI): The NSCN(I-M) has held the ULFA responsible for Sunday's armed clash between the two outfits on the Assam-Nagaland border area of Nanaland's Mon district, in which an ULFA cadre and a student were killed.
In a statement here on Tuesday, NSCN(I-M) claimed the clash occurred at Tizit after some ULFA activists intruded without informing them.
An ULFA cadre was killed in the clash and another apprehended by the Naga outfit while two others were in custody of the Nagaland police, the statement said.
The outfit said it would release the captive when there was an understanding, 'but not by bowing to the ultimatum served by the ULFA'.
NSCN(I-M) claimed that the Naga student killed was an ULFA informer.
Meanwhile, ULFA in a statement said that the clash occurred at Natola area, a disputed belt on Assam-Nagaland border so both ULFA and NSCN(I-M) 'have equal rights to use the area'.
The ULFA yesterday claimed that seven of its cadres were currently in NSCN(I-M) custody and demanded their release within three days.
Ulfa, NSCN in abduction row A STAFF REPORTER The Telegraph
Guwahati, Nov. 12: The two most powerful militant groups of the region are on a collision course.
Ulfa has given the NSCN (Isak-Muivah) three days to release seven members who were allegedly abducted by the Naga group yesterday from Namtola, along the Assam-Nagaland border in Sivasagar district.
The military spokesman of the group, Raju Barua, said in a statement today that Naga militants killed two of his men and abducted seven more when they were crossing a forest in Namtola.
The NSCN (I-M) admitted to killing one Ulfa member, injuring another and “arresting” a third.
The outfit’s kilonser (minister) for information and publicity, Tongmeth Konyak, said the Ulfa team was attacked for entering NSCN (I-M) territory without permission. “Our boys did not attack the Ulfa members without reason. They were our friends once and we may be friends again in future. They were attacked because they entered our territory without our permission.”
He said two of the Ulfa militants involved in that incident were now in police custody.
Ulfa has links with the Khaplang faction of the NSCN, which is engaged in a bloody turf war with the NSCN (I-M).
The Assam outfit shares some of the Khaplang group’s camps in Myanmar and uses Mon district of Nagaland, a stronghold of the Naga group, as a corridor between the region and that country.
Konyak said Ulfa could secure the release of its members through a “understanding” with the NSCN (I-M) and not by issuing threats.
Ulfa described the incident as a move by the Tangkhuls — NSCN(I-M) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah is a Tangkhul — to create a rift between the Nagas and the Assamese. It threatened to mobilise other Naga communities to campaign against the Tangkhuls if the abducted men were not released within three days.
The Ulfa spokesman said no tribe, barring the Tangkhuls, had ever objected to providing “passage” to his outfit through Naga territory. “Just as the Nagas have the right to pass through Assam, Ulfa and the Assamese people, too, have every right to pass through Naga territory,” he added.
The NSCN (I-M) retorted that blaming one Naga tribe for the incident was unfair. “Ulfa should not try to create divisions in the Naga family. The NSCN does not represent any particular tribe; it represents the Naga community as a whole,” Konyak said.
AASU hits out over migrants A STAFF REPORTER The Teleraph


Samujjal Bhattacharyya speaks to the media at the union office on Monday. Picture by Eastern Projections
Guwahati, Nov. 12: The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) today demanded that the Assembly adopt a resolution during its ongoing winter session to evict illegal Bangladeshi migrants and jihadi forces from the state.
The union will take out torchlit processions in the city and in Diphu on Thursday and after the district council elections in Haflong to build awareness against the migrants.
The AASU alleged that the Tarun Gogoi-led Congress government was “friendly towards Bangladeshis” and had tried every trick in the book to protect the illegal migrants.
Referring to the clean chit given by the government to suspected illegal migrants who were pushed out from Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland a few months ago, AASU adviser Samujjal Bhattacharyya said the move exposed the government’s soft corner for foreigners.
“This is the first instance when a state government has declared persons evicted from two neighbouring states as Indian citizens,” he added.
Bhattacharyya said AASU activists and the people of Assam had tried hard to identify the illegal migrants and hand them over to police.
“But it is unfortunate that the state government, instead of verifying their citizenship through the process of law, issued citizenship certificates to them,”he added.
The AASU leader demanded that the government should make public the basis on which it had given a clean chit to these people.
“The district police chief is not the right person to issue citizenship certificates. There is a tribunal to do so,” he said.
Bhattacharyya said the government should learn a lesson from its neighbouring states in taking firm steps towards illegal migrants.
“The Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland governments have, in fact, joined hands with student organisations to push out illegal migrants, but look at Gogoi...” he added.
AASU president Shankar Prasad Ray said the Gogoi government had paved the way for jihadi elements to set up base in the state by protecting the illegal migrants. “More than 15 jihadi groups are operating in Assam, but there has been no serious effort by the government to root out these inimical elements,” he added.
Naga rebel group attacks ULFA cadres, kills two Indo-Asian News Service
A tribal Naga rebel group attacked militants belonging to the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) in Nagaland, killing two and abducting seven members of the outfit, according to an ULFA statement in Guwahati on Monday.
Police say the incident could snowball into a major conflict between the two groups.
The statement said heavily armed militants of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN), which is led by guerrilla leaders Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah, attacked ULFA rebels near village Tizit in Nagaland's Mon district late on Sunday.
"Tangkhul Naga's of the NSCN-IM attacked and killed two of our cadres and kidnapped seven more while our boys were passing through that area," Raju Baruah, chief military spokesperson of the ULFA, said in statement. The ULFA is an influential separatist group in Assam fighting for an independent homeland since 1979. It has bases in Myanmar and has to traverse through parts of Nagaland to reach their camps on the other side of the border.
"We urge the NSCN-IM to hand over the seven abducted ULFA cadres within three days. We have never disturbed the movement of Nagas through Assam and this incident is quite serious," the ULFA statement said. There was no immediate comment from the NSCN-IM.
The ULFA in the past were imparted military training by the NSCN-IM although the Assamese rebel group has now severed links with it.
The ULFA is aligned to the rival NSCN group led by factional leader SS Khaplang.
The two NSCN factions are fighting a bitter turf war in Nagaland for territorial supremacy. "The attack on the ULFA by the NSCN-IM is probably due to the differences we have and could be because the ULFA is staying in Myanmar under our patronage," a top NSCN-K leader said.
NSWON decries crime against women in society The Morung Express
Dimapur, November 12 (MExN): The National Socialist Women Organization of Nagalim (NSWON), the women wing of the NSCN (IM) today strongly deplored the rising cases of violence against women in the society, especially the two recent rape cases in Mokokchung district and said that the incidents ‘is shameful and insulting in the true sense of the term given the status the Naga women enjoyed in the by-gone years and the public feeling we valued’.
“The NSWON while observing the sorry state of affairs in Mokokchung District wished that Mokokchung as one of the few places in Nagalim with seeming show of development had not come into the glare of the public on the issue of these rape incidents where the arraignment is also yet to take off,” the NSWON said in a press release issued through the MIP.
Strongly deploring the indifferent attitude of the law-enforcing agency towards the rape cases, the NSWON pointed out that ‘rape is no ordinary crime to be given these sorts of legal negligent’. “The way the District Police is sitting over the issue that has direct bearing to human dignity is absolutely repugnant we are still too distraught to think of the police morality that has gone down to such level,” the release stated. The release opined that the police forces should go extra mile to nail the rapist and prove their worth by judicious use of the power at their disposal.
“The Mokokchung Police’s follow up of the rape cases is far from satisfaction,” the release stated and at the same time echoed the NSCN (IM)’s opinion that capital punishment should be awarded to rapists. “More painful is the absence demonstrative conviction of rapists with capital punishment to drive home the point that sexual crime against womenfolk is abhorrent to a civilized society that the Nagas is also a part of,” the release stated.
The release also exhorted the apex Ao Women organization and said that ‘it is a matter of responsibility with social commitment that the WATSU Mungdang awaken themselves to the issue that has pricked their conscience as women who value their dignity and honour’. “The tradition of the Ao or for the same matter the Nagas who normally attached a place of honour for the women must be preserved at all cost,” it stated.
The release pointed that the rape of Narokala of Kangtsung Village and the rape and murder of Tajennaro of Mokokchung Village, who went through ‘animal like aggression on women will remain as a painful episode in the psyche of the Nagas who matters in guarding the women’s rights without which our obsession for human rights is meaningless’. The NSWON also decried the assault of the Wanching villagers by the NSCN (K).
“This is not only inhuman but highly uncivilized. This is archaic and unfair and the Nagas as a whole need to react in a befitting manner,” the release stated and added that hurting public sentiments through physical torture is a risky gamble going by the sensitivity of today’s public mindset. The NSWON also expressed solidarity with NSCW member Ellen Konyak that National Workers without the cooperation of the public can achieve nothing worth for the cause of the Nagas.
NSCN (K) Chakhesang region condemns bus robbery The Morung Express
Dimapur, November 12 (MExN): Expressing solidarity with the passengers who were robbed of their belongings and properties during a robbery on November 7 last in Phek district, the NSCN (K) today vehemently condemned the robbery of the bus passengers and said that such kind of ‘barbaric occurrence’ has only aggravated misunderstanding and alienation among the fellow Nagas. “The GPRN (NSCN-K) shall leave no stone unturned to apprehend the culprits and award befitting punishment,” promised the Chairman of the Chakhesang Region, NSCN (K), Vepozo in a press statement. He also requested the public to contact the “authourities” with any information regarding the incident so that the same incident does not recur in future.
The Chakhesang Region Chairman also strongly refuted the allegations of the NSCN (IM) Chakhesang Region allegations which held the NSCN (K) and the FGN responsible for the bus robbery. In this regard, Vepozo termed the NSCN (IM)’s allegation ‘as totally baseless and holds no water’, and therefore informed the general public ‘not to be misled by such cheap propaganda’. “The truth will be known sooner or later and the Nagas will ultimately know as to who is the ‘great betrayer of the Nagas, ‘trouble maker’, and destroyer of the Nagas’,” the release stated.
Government of the people’s republic of Nagalim Ministry of Information & Publicity Press Statement 13th November 2007

NSCN Rejoinder to Raju Baruah

This rejoinder is being given in response to the statement of one ULFA military spokesperson Mr. Raju Baruah that surfaced in a local daily dated 13th November 2007 in which he claimed that the place (Namsa Police colony, Nagaland) where the clash took place on 11 November 2007 is a dispute belt. Apart from other Naga areas there are more than 12 Tea Garden in the present Assam
the Managers of which have been giving annual tax to the Konyak Land Owners like Japoka, Shanyu, Pongkong, etc till 1972. We can dig out the cash receipt from the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Mon even today. The Police Colony of Namsa, the place where the firing took place on 11 November 2007 is very much in the interior part of Nagaland. The claim made by Mr. Baruah saying that the place is a dispute area and therefore everybody has got right to dwell is very much an insult to the Nagas in general and the Konyak community especially of Tizit area in particular.
Consequently, person like late Achem who used to be the guide for such party (Mr.Baruah and his men of ULFA on that very day) and for that matter any group which gives them safe-heaven is not only their forerunner but the wholesaler of his community and his nation. Therefore, any organization or village who stands to support such person without knowing his or their past activities and ill motive should try to identify the fact and refrain from such blind accusation on the
NSCN/GPRN and its Shongshen Battalion without delay. The NSCN/GPRN will stand to the end safeguarding, protecting and defending every Right of the Nagas which rightfully belongs to them.

Issued by: Ministry of Information &Publicity GPRN

Government of the people’s republic of Nagalim Ministry of Information & Publicity Press Statement 13th November 2007

NSCN/GPRN Condemns

The lost of one revolutionary friend is a lost to the whole revolutionary cause.
The assassination of KRA C-in-C at the hands of some miscreants in New Delhi is
therefore condemnable by all revolutionary organizations who value the morality of
revolutionary movement. The NSCN who has stood as a close friend of KRA throughout
strongly condemn the ghastly murder of K. Hangsing. May his spirit live long to
inspire the Kuki movement to achieve their cherished goal.
Issued by: Ministry of Information &Publicity GPRN
NSCN (K) resorting to archaic law: NSCN (IM) The |Morung Express
Dimapur, November 12 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) today decried its rival faction of ‘looting passenger’ and ‘beating villagers black and blue’ and said that the NSCN (K) members are ‘resorting to the archaic law of the jungle to meet their needs from the Naga people’.
“What is going on in Chakhesang Area and Konyak Area is a serious case in point. Looting public properties and cash from traveling passengers to sustain their daily extravaganza but all in the name of Naga National cause is the most intolerable happening in today’s Naga Society,” stated a press release received here from the NSCN (IM), which was issued through its MIP.
The release pointed out that ‘to beat the villagers black and blue for no tangible reason is all the more shameful for the whole Nagas because this too is done in the name of the group who professed to be national workers’.
The release stated that ‘shouting from the comfort of Intelligence arranged press platforms in New Delhi, Kolkata or other places in Nagalim will not go for enough for the Khaplang Group to identify itself as a group to defend Naga People’s interest’. “Because in the ground level the group members are resorting to the archaic law of the jungle to meet their needs from the Naga People,” the release stated. In this connection, the release lamented that the trend of ‘the public and the Naga National group’ shedding tears and sweat, helping and learning from each other is slowly diminishing. “We regret with shame and humility that this trend is slowly diminishing. This is a dangerous reality that is happening before our eyes,” the release stated. The release, therefore stated, that under the given situation, ‘the Nagas as whole must take a move to identify the hypocrisy of the existing groups professing high sounding values that are never put into practice’. The release stated that “this is the time to leave aside petty commitments and think in terms of national values that everyone has to uphold to salvage our political commitment that has been polluted by the so-called pseudo national workers working under the affiliation of various groups”.
Imkong faces heat at home, barred from entering Changki village Nagaland Page

Dimapur, November 12: The Changki Village Council and the Changki Ayim Asem Senso Mongdang (CAASM) have debarred Leader of Opposition & CLP leader, I Imkong and his Emremchangki clan members residing outside of Changki village from entering the jurisdiction of Changki village. They were also earlier expelled from CAASM in February 2006.
This was resolved in a joint meeting of the two apex village bodies on November 9 last at Changki village.
In a press release, VCC Chairman, Limameri Amri, GB, and CAASM president, Imlimeren Amri, said Imkong and his Emremchangki clan members are being debarred for continuously defying the decisions of CAASM by refusing to pay citizenship fees and other collections for the last 7 years.
The CAASM has also unanimously decided to close down the Changki Village gates (Sungkum) during the ensuing state assembly election, besides also resolving that no Changki Senso members would support I Imkong as a candidate in the forthcoming general election.
"Any defaulting members will face heavy penalty of being expelled from the village for 10 years along with families," it warned. The CAASM also unanimously declared to support the candidate who will stand against the CLP leader in the assembly election.
Informing that Emremchangki clansmen who have accepted the Senso decisions and paid the citizenship's fee, etc., are in the village enjoying the full citizenship right like any other clans, the joint meeting resolved to give time up to February 2008 to those Emremchanki clansmen who have not paid citizenship fee, etc., to clear their dues, failing which they will not be allowed to stay in the village. "Meanwhile they have no access to facilities like water supply from traditional ponds, use of traditional village roads, cultivation, etc.," it informed.
It can be mentioned that the CAASM has accused the Emremchanki clan of trying to usurp the clan name 'Chankiri' from the actual Chankiri clan, besides also attempting to impose themselves as the leading founding clan of the village. However according to CAASM, Emremchanki clan joined Changki village at a much later state since it's founding at Jhangpetkong and subsequently at Ongjen (Ongdien).
A CAASM booklet 'The triumph of the rule of customary law' accused the Emremchanki clan of "trying to uproot and throw to the winds the real, genuine Changki origins, their age old customary laws and practices, and attempting to have them replaced by the concocted fiction of Emremchanki clan".
The CAASM booklet appealed to Emremchanki clan members who are in position of leadership in the Church and public leaders to search their conscience, acknowledge the clan's grave errors, repent from their "destructive ways" and lead others in "humble submission" before CAASM in accordance to Changki's age-old customary practices. (Page News Service)
Where are the monks? Many flee monasteries to escape junta AMBIKA AHUJA and RUNGRAWEE C. PINYORAT (Associated Press Writers)
The monasteries of Myanmar used to teem with saffron-robed Buddhist monks, revered as spiritual guides and moral authorities in a country in the grip of a repressive military regime. Then the junta turned its troops on the monks, beating them in the streets for leading pro-democracy protests. They also raided their monasteries, leaving bloodstains on the floors, chasing anyone who had participated in the rallies. Now, nobody knows how many of Myanmar's more than 500,000 monks are left in their monasteries. The junta has not disclosed how many monks were put behind bars since the upheaval of Sept. 26-27. In its last tally, on Nov. 6, the regime said nearly 3,000 people had been released, leaving 91 still in custody. But diplomats and dissidents say the figures are a fraction of reality and an unknown number of monks have been detained since then.
The picture that emerges, after scores of interviews with monks, abbots and other people in Myanmar, is that monasteries around the country have been depleted - particularly in the biggest cities, Yangon and Mandalay, where protests were staged. Many monks have slipped over borders or are hiding in their hometowns and villages. To avoid being caught in a nighttime raid on their monasteries, some stay with friends, despite Buddhist rules that forbid a monk and a lay person to sleep under the same roof. In this devoutly Buddhist country, every male citizen has to be a monk for at least a short time. But many parents are keeping their children out of the monasteries for their safety, several abbots said in interviews. The junta has lifted a nighttime curfew, restored Internet access and ended a ban on assembly. But monks remain targets. The junta said recently it was still pursuing four monks who led rallies. One of them, U Kovida, spoke to The Associated Press from the Thai border, asking that his location be kept secret for fear Thai authorities would send him back.
"At the moment you will hardly find a monk in Yangon. Monks are running away from danger. They are being arrested and sent to labor camps, tortured and killed," said U Kovida, 24. The junta has not commented on allegations of abuse. Kovida is officially accused of having hidden 48 blocks of TNT in his monastery before moving them elsewhere. He was hunted for three weeks by authorities and arrived at the border Oct. 18. He says the allegations are false. "Whenever they want to arrest a leading monk, they have to make up some story because they know people have such great respect for monks and Buddhism," he said.
A heavy police guard remains outside a handful of monasteries in Yangon, the former Rangoon, where some of the country's best-known shrines were flashpoints of the violence. But a tour of some of the monasteries indicate there's little left to guard. The Ngwekyar Yan monastery in northern Yangon is empty. It used to have about 180 monks, said U Yewata, the chief abbot, who was ordered by officials to move out. He said 70 monks were dragged away on the night of Sept. 26 and more were arrested later.
An abbot at a monastery in Ahlone township, in western Yangon, said he had sent most of his 1,200 monks home fearing he could no longer control them. Only the elderly monks remain. Residents of North Okalapa township in northern Yangon said when a traditional daily procession of monks failed to show up they went to the monastery and were told that hundreds of monks had left and only a few dozen remained. Monks have played a pivotal role in protests against unjust rulers, from British colonial powers to the repressive military regime. The last time monks took to the streets was during 1990 anti-government protests, which the junta crushed.
The junta has long regarded monks as a potential threat. It has tried to intimidate, bribe and spy on them, and to gain control over the official state committee of monks, giving some of its 47 members cars, cell phones, TV sets, refrigerators and other gifts considered luxuries in the impoverished country also known as Burma. But many say that this time, in targeting monks and monasteries, the generals went too far. In this 90 percent Buddhist country of 54 million people, monasteries are sacrosanct.
At the height of the crackdown, news footage broadcast around the world showed troops firing on marching monks and smashed-up furniture at monasteries. A dead monk was shown floating face down in a river. For now, the generals appear to have succeeded in scaring monks into submission. Josef Silverstein, a retired Rutgers University professor who studied Myanmar for more than a half century, doesn't expect to see monks back in the front line for some time.
"Religious sayings and prayers were no match for the guns and determination of the military," he said. But other experts say the monks' treatment won't be forgotten. "The next wave of protests may have to be led by student leaders and political activists," said Pornpimon Trichot, a Myanmar specialist at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. "But monks will remain an inspiration that lends legitimacy to the movement."
Influx of illegal immigrants Perspective The Morung Express
There is an all round failure in the NE region particularly Nagaland to come to grips with the problem of illegal immigration. The problem of illegal immigration in Nagaland particularly in Dimapur has now become alarming just because we did not care to see through a problem assuming an alarming proportion over the past 3and 4 decades and have developed the habit of letting a problem fester to such an extent that it becomes intractable in course of time. The law and order problems of the N.E region have staggered from bad to worse, with this dangerous influx of illegal migrants of an estimated 12 million Bangladeshis since 1971, which posses a grave concern because in course of time it could adversely affect the unique culture and the demographic profile of our region which has already affected some of our neighboring states, like Tripura, Assam, etc. Even politically these immigrants, especial1y Bangladeshis are now in a position to influence results of elections. We are, largely to be blamed due to the patronage of our own vested people, especially politicians, bureaucrats and our incompetent government and its concerned departments, these illegal migrants are able to sustain and survive. This problem is complicated further by the fact that the 'Indo-Bangla border remains largely unnatural and porous.
There is a grave concern over the large scale migration in our state from outside specially Bangladeshis. This unchecked influx of il1egal migrants could change the demographic profile of our state. More over, there exists a great security threat with the growth and influence of the LS.L which is evident from the various jehadi groups like the S.I. M.I. in our region. The recent unearthing of nexus with terrorist elements by the Ao Students Union (A.K.M), is only the tip of iceberg. With these problems in our hands we cannot simply ignore and let our state become another AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ and IRAN. Infact, it is inevitable if the problems are not effectively tackled before it goes out of proportion. We can take the classic example of Tripura, where the original indigenous inhabitants are now reduced to minorities. The impact of illegal immigration has been equally profound in Assam too. According to some statistical survey, from 1891 till 2000, the state population grew from 20% to 53% which is alarming by any standard. Thus, the then president of the All Assam Student Union, wryly remarked "We used to say Assam is an integral part of India, but now we should be saying, it is an integral part of Bangladesh". These are some of the problems which by now, the govt. should take measures in the interest of our own internal security. The Supreme Court of India too has expressed fears that the unchecked migration of Bangladeshis to the N.E region poses a threat to both the economy and security of our country. These illegal migrants are "eating into the economy of the country and to a large extent, have become a security threat". The apex Court also criticized the Government for not taking any steps to curb the influx. "If this is not checked, the problem will go on aggravating", the apex court observed. The problem of illegal migrant in Nagaland has now become a knotty problem which should be viewed very seriously and necessary actions taken by the Government and other NGO's. Here a question arises, should the nagas allow the problem to assume the proportions of another Tripura OR Assam? In order to safeguard our own interest and internal security, with particular reference to this menace, have to be given the importance they merit. The stand taken by the NSF regarding this menace should be applauded, but the problem still grows unabated. Recently, the Ao Students Union (AKM) launched a drive against the illegal migrants and unearthed the real picture which could have resulted in serious consequences. The effort of the AKM is commendable. This was followed by the Konyak Students Union and Angami Students Union. Their efforts should be supplied by all sections of the people, and urge the other Unions to follow suit. .In order to address the problem effectively, State Government with other NGO's backed by a strong public working in tandem and concerted effort could actively check the infiltration of illegal immigrations in our state. Strict enforcement of ILP Regulation, the BEFR Act of 1873, the Traditional and customary laws of the Nagas, strict implementation of immigration and labor laws and take necessary steps to stop Nagas patronizing illegal immigrant. Discourage illegal immigrants from obtaining unmovable properties, and specially ban migrants marrying into Naga societies. Even, the non-Nagas should not be al1owed to carry out research work on Naga history, without approval and consent of the Nagas, in order to safeguard Naga history from further distortion.
Nagas are not against any community or have ill intention towards them. The non-locals should also acknowledge the Nagas who are peace loving, hospitable and kind inspite of the humiliation, harassment and difficulties meted out to the Nagas when we are outside our state, particularly the student community. In order to avoid victimization of genuine citizens, the non-locals should extend co-operation in identifying illegal migrants, lest you become the victim, so that the sentiments of genuine Indians is not hurt.
The different national Naga groups should also realize the adverse implication of this menace and instead of patronizing and overlooking the problem, before it takes us to a point of no return, they should stand up to its principle and sacred duty to safeguard the interest and security of its people so that Nagaland does not become like another of our neighboring state.
With unemployment on the rise and declining social and economic security of our people, the problem of illegal immigrations has further compounded the misery of the people. If the menace is not tackled now, it will destroy the political, economic and social stability of not only Nagaland but the NE Region and the entire country.
Vikaho Chisho, New Colony, Zunheboto
NE outfits should evolve frank approach: Jamir Nagaland Post
Panaji, Nov 12: Governor of Goa, Dr. SC Jamir said insurgent groups in the north-east should have frank discussions with the government to express their aspirations and avoid “Western style” negotiations.
“We people of the north-east are frank, honest and straight forward and are not quite familiar with the art of diplomacy...We speak from our hearts and so we should have frank discussions putting across what we really want to the Government of India rather than having western style negotiations,” a statement issued by the OSD to the Governor quoted Jamir as saying.
Interacting with a group of journalists from Mizoram who had called on him here on Monday, Jamir reiterated that the real aspirations of the people were not properly and appropriately expressed by foreign words and phrases and therefore, the Government of India tended to interpret the words and phrases from the Western context.
“We aspire for something better than what we have but the real inner feelings and thoughts of the Hills people cannot be expressed properly in foreign language, and this is the main roadblock to coming closer with the mainland,” Jamir said.
He insisted that such “psychological” and “social barriers” should be removed so that people could come closer to one another.
The governor of Goa advised the journalists of the north-east to project the positive aspects of the region and not merely report on insurgency or political turmoil.
He expressed the desire that leaders of the north-east begin to think of the entire region as a single political, social, economic and geographical unit.
The Governor of Goa lauded the people of Mizoram for the peaceful conditions prevailing in the State and said peace paid rich dividends to Mizoram. He wished the other States to emulate Mizoram in terms of peaceful conditions and declared that peace was the pre-requisite to all human developments.
Army steps up vigil in Arunachal From Our Spl Correspondent Assam tribune
NEW DELHI, Nov 12 – Reports of intrusion by China into Indian territories has led the Army to tighten vigil along the international border in Arunachal Pradesh. Despite reports of regular intrusions by the Chinese Army, the Indian Army has been maintaining a stoic silence on the issue. The Centre has had denied reports of incursion on the floor of the Parliament clarifying that the State is integral part of the country.

Vice Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General MLNaidu addressing newsmen, on eve of the formal inauguration of the Defence Pavilion, said that the Army has been very alert. “We are ensuring management of border according to letter and spirit.”

On the border dispute, the Lt General said that India and China have different perception about the border. “We have some kind of discussion and talks have taken place between the two countries,” the Vice Chief said admitting that the dispute has been long drawn.

Lt. General’s clarification coincides with the announcement by National Security Adviser, M K Narayanan in Moscow about the move to set up a new working group to devise a framework agreement to resolve the boundary dispute.

The joint working group was set up following External Affairs, Pranab Mukherjee’s recent meeting with his Chinese counterpart at Harbin. The new group has been enlisted to assist the special representatives M K Narayanan and Dai Bingguo in working out a framework agreement, which will be the basis of the boundary settlement.

Meanwhile, the Vice Chief of Staff when asked about the problems of militancy in the North-East said that situation in the Region was not as bad as it is made out to be. He claimed that militancy has been confined to certain pockets in some States in the Region.

About the ongoing negotiations with different militant groups, he said Government of India has been talking to these groups. “It is a matter of understanding and perception,” he said.

When asked for Army’s perception about assistance extended to militant groups in neighbouring Bangladesh, Lt General Naidu said they were aware of the developments taking place in the neighbouring country and the assistance being made available. “Terrorism is a scourge and it is for the ruling elite in the neighbouring country to realise and take action.”

Meanwhile, the Armed forces pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF), 2007 titled “Defenders of the Dawn” would focus on the North-East.

Lt. General Naidu also released a brochure An Eastern Odyssey.

The Defence pavilion would showcase, for the first time, the counter insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS), Vairengte in Mizoram. A premier institute in low intensity warfare, which has trained soldiers from more than 42 countries including the United States.

A sound and light show ‘The Saga of Brahmaputra’ at Hamsdhwani Theatre has been organised. Arrangements have also been made for visitors to chat with soldiers on the remote North Eastern frontiers through live video conferencing.
Prepare a masterplan for Bodoland dev: Raghuvansh
From our Correspondent Sentinel
KOKRAJHAR, Nov 12: Union Minister for Rural Development Raghuvansh Prasad Singh today suggested that the BTC leaders prepare a proper masterplan for effective development of the region. Addressing a function at the BTC Assembly House, Singh said that he would look into the projects submitted before him by the BTC authority for all-round development and would take the necessary steps for their fulfilment.
Singh said more PMGY fund would flow for development of road communications in the rural areas of Chirang, Baksa and Udalguri districts of the BTC in the next five years. He said the fund would be released in two phases. A sum of Rs 20 crore each for the newly-created DRDA in Chirang, Baksa and Udalguri districts would be allocated from the next financial year, Singh said, adding that at least 200 km rural roads in BTC area would be developed under PMGY. He also urged the Council leaders to make a masterplan to streamline the fund of NRHM in the region to improve the health sector. Besides, he assured that he would pursue the uplift of higher education, eradication of unemployment and growth of the agriculture sector, among others, in the BTC region.
BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary said that the BTC area was predominantly inhabited by the economically backward people. The infrastructure at every level was not up to the mark to meet the present-day challenges, he said, adding that the region needed technical, vocational and medical colleges and universities.
Mohilary said that whereas the BTC was endowed with many big rivers such as Sankosh, Hell, Aie, Beki and Pagladia, but due to non-harnessing of these rivers, the natural water resources turn into sorrow during the rainy season. He said the BTC area was devoid of industry and other developmental infrastructure due to non-availability of energy. The Council has already submitted schemes for the setting up of mini hydro electric projects, he said.
Asom Rural Development Minister Chandan Brahma urged the Union Minister to take measures for effective development of the region. He also appealed to Singh to convey to the Union Government a proposal to consider direct funding to the BTC authority as well as enhancement of special package to bring speedy development in the region.
In a brief interaction with the local media, the Union Minister said that rural developmental activities in Asom were progressing satisfactorily over the last few years. He expressed happiness over that developmental activities in the BTC area. He also stressed on proper implementation of all Central schemes. Earlier, Singh visited Kathalguri SAG centre at Titaguri and the new BTC secretariat complex. He also inspected the 6.99 crore bundh project under NREGS.
Free our cadres within 3 days: ULFA to NSCN-IM
By our Staff Reporter Sentinel
GUWAHATI, Nov 12: The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) today asked the NSCN-IM to hand over the seven ULFA cadres kidnapped by it. In an e-mail, ULFA’s military spokesman Raju Baruah said: “The NSCN-IM killed two and kidnapped seven ULFA cadres who were going through Namtula area in Asom along Nagaland border near Tizit yesterday. We ask the NSCN-IM led by Tangkhuls to hand over the kidnapped ULFA cadres to us within three days. If the NSCM-IM doesn’t hand over our cadres to us, we urge the non-Tangkhuls of Nagaland to oppose the NSCN-IM. We urge the Tangkhuls not to disturb the age-old ties between the Asomiyas and the Nagas.”