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01/28/2008: "NSCN (IM) points out the principles for Naga unityThe Morung Express"

NSCN (IM) points out the principles for Naga unityThe Morung Express

Dimapur, January 27 (MExN): While stating that killings have taken place for too long, the NSCN (IM) affirmed that it was the desire of the Nagas that this senseless killing should stop. “Nobody goes for the killings just for the heck of it. It is against national principle to align with the forces deployed for the purpose of suppressing the Naga’s struggle for regaining their political status. It is also national principle to align with the forces who are deadly against Indo-Naga solution. It is also against national principle to seek solution by surrendering to the constitution of India. Equally, anti national principle is the opposition to Naga integrative spirit of Nagalim. This is the principle that the NSCN is talking about and this is the principle that NSCN would like to be guided for Naga unity and Naga solution as well”, stated an MIP note.
The NSCN (IM) stated that “sensitive as the issue is, Naga unification needs the backing of a strong moral conviction and exemplary national character with the visional commitment to respect the uniqueness of the Naga political character”. In a press note from the MIP it pointed out that this demanded “careful handling of the approach that reflects national support respecting the egos and sentiments of the components that built up Naga nation”. The MIP stated that “trust is a vital component of any relationship because trust is the foundation of any human relationship” but that “experiences of the past dictate that unprincipled relationship cannot build a strong unity”.
“This is the matter that confronts the Nagas today. Those people who could not interpret ‘principle’ from the national point of view have not national commitment other than self-centered principle with headstrong approach to gain maximum benefits out of the national issue that has been displayed for sale by the anti-Naga forces”, stated the MIP note. The NSCN (IM) pointed out that this “is the tragic turn of events today when such issue of national importance was hijacked by persons that carry the tag of habitual defectors who refused to reform their character in keeping with their Oath of Allegiance to defend the interest of the Nagas at all cost and under any circumstances”.
It also described as “abominable” for people without any national character in their face to have the temerity to take up such issue as Naga unity. “Faith and hope is crucially important at such juncture of the Nagas. With faith there is hope, but unfortunately defectors have no people’s faith”, it stated.
Stating that Naga people are no doubt obsessed with unity because of their longing for peace, the MIP note pointed out that “to exploit this national obsession there should be initiators with strong moral integrity to get the full support of the Nagas”. “This is the stumbling block and nothing else in the presence scheme of Naga unification as initiated by some persons”.
Sumi Hoho meets Isaac Swu; reiterates on broad based unity

Dimapur, January 27 (MExN): The Sumi Hoho has informed that in order to seek clarification over ‘confusions’ created in the minds on the issue of Naga unification, a delegation under the leadership of Sumi Hoho President Hokishe Yeptho and Vitokhe Assumi, advisor Sumi Hoho met Isaac Swu, Chairman at Bangkok on January 23. Stating this in a press note Sumi Hoho President stated that the meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere ‘with mutual acceptance of views from both sides, where “Chairman NSCN suggested that Sumis participation in Naga unification must be under the principle of forgive, forget and reconciliation”. According to the press note, Isaac also suggested that “Sumis should play the mediating role among Nagas to pave the way for ultimate Naga unification, regardless of artificial physical boundaries. “Therefore, Sumi Hoho once again would like to clarify our stand that Sumis stand for broad based unification of all the Nagas irrespective of arbitrarily imposed boundaries”.
An appeal to voters- Nagaland Post
General Election in Nagaland is round the corner but there is not much reason to be emotionally excited or be anxious. Just stay calm and vote for the candidate who will work for the welfare of the people. In the past elections, many of our people have wrecked themselves which they later regretted.
I appeal to all the candidates not to mislead the people that will create unwanted situations like supply of intoxicating drinks, distribution of money, malpractices, booth capturing etc.
1. Vote consciously: You are a person of priceless worth, your vote is sacred which must be decided by yourself. Vote freely without inhibition, fear and under no obligation.
2. Vote only the candidate who maintain clean moral life and without guile in public life.
3. Voting age is 18 years do not manipulate your age lest God deals with your life
4. Buying vote is an insult and to ask or take money for vote is an abomination such sale of vote shall invite curse like that of Esau.
5. Examine the past of the candidate and manifesto: visualize the future and then vote. Candidates who failed the public (which ever party) in the past are likely to repeat the same failure.
6. Your vote shall contribute either to a fuller or a poorer life.
7. Let us all strive to build a government of which justice and righteousness should be the foundation like God. Whoever touches thorns uses a tool of iron or the shaft of a spear, they are burned up where they lie.
Mhonbemo Ngullie, Former president, Pangti Village Students Union (2003-05) & former speaker All Nagaland College Students' Union (2005-07)
Bandh as weapon for delimitation
- 3 tribes protest process suspension OUR CORRESPONDENT


Kohima, Jan. 27: Three Naga tribes have called a 12-hour bandh tomorrow in protest against Delhi’s decision not to go ahead with the process of delimitation of constituencies in Nagaland.
The bandh is expected to affect traffic on National Highway 39, the lifeline of Manipur and parts of Nagaland, and National Highway 61, which passes through Kohima and Mokokchung en route to Amguri in Assam.
The Chakhroma Public Organisation, the apex organisation of the western Angami Nagas, is behind the bandh on National Highway 39. The Lotha and Rengma tribes have called for a bandh in Wokha district and Tseminyu subdivision.
The bandh on National Highway 61, beginning 5am, will affect parts of Kohima , Wokha, Mokokchung and Zunheboto.
The Chakhroma Public Organisation, Lotha Hoho and Rengma Hoho said the ordinance on delimitation was a blatant violation of the recommendations sent to the state in April 2007 by the Delimitation Commission of India. Other Naga tribes that are demanding the implementation of delimitation are the Chakhesangs in Phek district, Phoms of Longleng and Zeliangrongs in Peren.
The rest of the Naga tribes are opposed to delimitation, making for a complicated situation.
Phek district has five Assembly seats, Longleng has two, Peren two and Wokha four. The Chakhroma Public Organisation wields clout in Ghaspani-1 and II constituencies.
Ghaspani-1 has the highest number of voters in the state while Aonglenden has the lowest. Aonglenden is the constituency of Goa governor S.C. Jamir’s son Apok Jamir. The number of voters in Peren is 59,254, Phek has 1,19,724, Wokha 108,900, Longleng 71,637 and Tseminyu sub-division 25,408.
Kohima has six constituencies and 1,28,844 voters. Dimapur has five seats and the total electorate is 1,68,366. Mokokchung has 10 seats with 1,74,011 voters, Zunheboto has seven seats with 1,03,949 voters and Mon has nine seats with 1,54,015 voters. Tuensang has 1,25,918 voters and seven seats and Kiphire has two seats with 50,481 voters. The cumulative strength of the Nagaland electorate is 13,00,507. The three tribes behind the bandh tomorrow have been complaining of inadequate representation in the Assembly.
Church delivers electoral Ten Commandments OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Shillong, Jan. 27: Here’s a piece of advice to Garo voters straight from the pulpit: look no further than an honest man while voting.
Issuing the electoral equivalent of the “Ten Commandments”, the Garo Baptist Convention asked voters to select candidates with integrity and moral character in the March 3 Assembly elections.
The Tura-based church organisation is circulating pamphlets among the residents in an attempt to rid Garo Hills of “corruption and a lack of development”.
The organisation’s general secretary K.C. Marak said it wanted to ensure that the voters selected honest candidates.
The 10 guidelines, issued in English and Garo, speak of the urgent need to redeem Garo Hills.
“We want to make the people aware that as Christians, we are duty bound to fight against corruption,” Marak said. “We get many financial grants from the Centre and there are enough funds with the state government. If we had utilised these properly, Garo Hills would have developed greatly.”
The first instruction says the voters should select candidates with integrity and moral character, irrespective of party affiliation.
Educated candidates who have a clear vision for the people should be elected, according to the second instruction.
“Beware of those who think about personal gain, power and position. Do not cast votes for those who make empty promises. Know that your vote is precious and powerful and hence, do not elect candidates who allure you with money,” exhort the other directives.
The guidelines also warn the voters not to receive any benefits from the candidates.
“Please do not go to the candidates’ residences to eat or to ask for money for by doing this, you will be forcing the candidate to recover the expenses from the money meant for the development of the constituency, once he or she is elected,” says another guideline.
The pamphlets also request the candidates to refrain from asking the candidates for money for any religious purposes or enjoying feasts during Christmas and New Year.
The church, however, urges the voters to respect the candidates. “Please avoid any negative comments and do not engage in verbal duels if you do not like the candidates”, said another rule.
It also asked the voters to assess the performance of the sitting legislators who were seeking re-election.
The last piece of advice from the church to the electorate was, “Let us elect god-fearing persons who would work for the development of the state and the people.”
Acting Governor S.S. Sidhu’s Republic Day address also urged the people to ensure fair elections in Meghalaya.
Speaking during the Republic Day celebrations at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the governor said he hoped that the polls would be held in a peaceful manner.
“I call upon the voters of the state to exercise their franchise freely and to maintain peace and harmony during the polls,” he said.
10 years of truce has given hope to people: Governor

Calls for responsive & accountable governance Nagaland Page
Kohima, January 26: Nagaland Governor K Sankaranarayanan today said that 10 years of truce with the NSCN vis-à-vis peace talks has given hope to the people of the state.
Delivering his speech on the occasion of Indian Republic Day at Secretariat Plaza Sankaranarayanan said negotiations with the NSCN to resolve the long standing Naga political problem has given hope to all.
"A hope for resolution of conflicts and ensuring that creative energy of our youth is channelised for the growth and development of the state", he said.
He said civil societies yearns for peace today and therefore have given a call for cessation of factional clashes adding such process have to be strengthened and Nagas have to ensure that there is spirit of positive cooperation amongst people. The Governor called for resolving the problem through democratic and peaceful means.
But he said while people yearn for peace and development, there is another desire in Naga society that people in the government need to address. He said the need of the hour is responsive and accountable governance.
"Our democratic system gives a lot of authority and responsibility to the executive. Very often all blame for all the ills that we have is put on the political executive", Sankaranarayanan said. He said government employees have the greater responsibility to the society and therefore they must ensure that their actions lead to the betterment of the society.
On March 5 elections, the Governor urged the people to choose the right persons who can lead the society. "We must exercise our franchise and lead others do so also," he added. He said free and fair elections are vital for growth and development and that government officials must leave no stone unturned to ensure that there is peaceful, impartial and free elections.
Dispelling doubts and misgiving over the imposition of President's Rule in the state since January 3, Sankaranarayanan said this is only a temporary measure, invoked in the most extreme circumstances, to uphold the constitutional principles and propriety. He said March 5 elections would give people to elect their government, which would be based on the fundamental principles of public welfare and public good.
"We must elect people who can rise above narrow selfish interests and isms and give a better tomorrow for us" he added.
The Governor said the next 5 years would be very crucial for the Naga people as they stand at the crossroads of history. According to him, Nagas are on the verge of realizing their long cherished dream of everlasting peace.
"We also have the opportunity of joining hands with rapidly growing economy of our nation and realize our aspirations of a developed and vibrant Nagaland". He said stakes are high and that it is upto the people to make the right choices in order to ensure that their dreams, aspirations and vision is fulfilled.
Sankaranarayanan said Nagaland is blessed to have a youth population who are full of energy and wish to do more for the state and which is a positive sign. He said the strength of Naga people also lies with the special provisions under Article 371 (A) of the constitution of India, that safeguards the unique and distinct cultural heritage of the people as also gives an opportunity for the people to grow and develop according to their own genius, thereby being equal partners in the development and progress of the country.
He said seeing the rapid development in the state by 2010 Nagaland will be 100% literacy. He asked the education department to use the funds judiciously, especially provided under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. He said state's outlay for 2007-8 has been hiked from 1997.78 lakhs to 5135.95 lakhs.
On the state's economy, the Governor said state is trying to attract investors with meets at regular intervals not only in the country but around the world in places such as New York, Bangkok and Korea. "This has been brought about with the efforts of all, especially with development issues taking center-stage with a decade of ceasefire and peace. He said two special economic zones are on the anvil-a multi product SEZ in the private sector and a product specific SEZ in the public sector.
The Governor said there has also been a lot of interest evinced by countries like Thailand and Korea and their presence in the state is becoming more and more visible.
He also underscored the need to give tempo to the tourism sector to attract the foreigners and to tap the potential of tourism in the state.
Meanwhile, the day passed off peacefully without untoward incident in the state, despite the boycott call given by the Northeast terror groups. Though Naga outfits did not boycott the celebrations, security forces did not take any chance. Security was tight throughout the celebrations. (Page News Service)
Poll ‘plot’ confuses babudom - One boss too many A STAFF REPORTER The Telegraph


A policeman outside the strongroom at Cotton College in Guwahati on Sunday. Picture by Eastern Projections
Guwahati, Jan. 27: Assam has created a bureaucratic labyrinth in trying to untangle law and order knots in the districts where votes polled in the panchayat elections will be counted tomorrow.
The decision to depute senior bureaucrats to the districts as law and order heads has left the deputy commissioners wondering where they stand in this makeshift hierarchy. Being the returning officers, they are answerable to the State Election Commission for any law and order problem but cannot take decisions on their own. Superintendents of police too are wondering who to take orders from.
“Decision-making might suffer because of the confusion at ground zero,” a senior officer in one of the Upper Assam districts said.
The government decided to depute officers of the ranks of joint secretary as commissioners in the wake of violence during the second and third phases of polling. Last week, the Assam United Democratic Party threatened to unleash thousands of party workers on the counting centres if the State Election Commission did not take steps to prevent “manipulation” of counting by the ruling Congress.
The government argued that the appointment of a commissioner each for the districts would ease the pressure on the deputy commissioners and allow them to “concentrate on election-related issues”. The poll panel seemed to agree.
An official said there was nothing objectionable in the move and that “extra pairs of eyes and hands” would help the state through a difficult period in terms of administration.
On whether that meant the poll panel would co-ordinate with the commissioners instead of the permanent civil and police heads, he said there was no question of fiddling with the arrangement finalised earlier.
“We have received a list of the appointments made by the government but will go by our returning officers (DCs) and observers. The officers deputed by Dispur in addition to our observers will have nothing to do with election issues. They are there to supervise law and order and it is upto them to do as they deem fit.”
A deputy commissioner who wished anonymity said “confusion” could have been avoided by clarifying a few points. “It can so happen that DCs will wait for the ‘super DCs’ to take the call or vice-versa. Precious time could be lost in observing protocol. We hope nothing untoward occurs.”
Day after Sena medal, officer dies fighting Ulfa TNN Times of India GUWAHATI: Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary remained a hero until death. A day after he was awarded the Sena medal for gallantry, on Republic Day, Capt Choudhary of 7/11 Gorkha Rifles died fighting Ulfa terrorists in Assam's Tinsukia district on Sunday.

The 28-year-old officer was shot during an encounter with militants at Barpathar in the militancy-hit Tinsukia district of Upper Assam. He died on way to the army hospital at Dinjan in neighbouring Dibrugarh.

An army report said Capt Choudhury and his team rushed to a house at Rangagarh in Borpathar after a tip-off that Ulfa terrorists had taken shelter there. The team came under heavy fire from the heavily armed militants.

After a brief standoff, Capt Choudhary charged into the house, his gun blazing, leaving two militants dead, but the young officer, too, was hit. The entire operation was over within minutes as the rest of the militants escaped.

Capt Choudhary, who was based in Kakopathar, Assam, was in the thick of counter-insurgency operations and was believed to have been a target of the rebels. His father is a serving army officer in Nashik.

Capt Choudhary had received the Sena medal for killing two Ulfa militants on July 13, 2007. The army's 4th Corps spokesman, Colonel R Kalia, said Capt Choudhary's family in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, had been informed about the tragedy.
Republic Day protested all over Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Jan 27: Even as the whole country celebrated the 59th Republic Day including Manipur, many protested the Republic Day celebration in different parts of the State.
Responding to the call of the Manipur People’s Liberation Front (MPLF) to boycott the Republic Day and to observe general strike on the day, protest movements were undertaken in 100 different places in various districts of Manipur yesterday.
At Thangmeiband Lilashing Khongnang-khong, people observed general strike by shouting slogans like, “We want freedom”, “We reject Indian Constitution” etc.
Similar slogans were shouted during protest agitation at Mayang Langjing, Uripok, Kwakeithel etc.
The Kamatapur Liberation Organisation (KLO), the Manipur People’s Liberation Front (MPLF), Tripura People’s Democratic Front (TPDF) and the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) have called for a general strike from 1 am to 6 pm of January 26 all over the North East region with a call to boycott Republic Day celebration all over the region.
Of the 100 hundred different locations where protest demonstrations were staged against Republic Day celebration yesterday, most of them were in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur and Thoubal districts.