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02/10/2008: "Spirit of forgiveness key to reconciliation morungexpress"

Spirit of forgiveness key to reconciliation morungexpress

Dimapur, February 9 (MExN): Y. Wangtin Naga, Deputy Kilonser, Ministry of Kilo Affairs, NSCN (K) has issued a statement pointing out that in order to pave the way for reconciliation and unification among different Naga factions, everyone should try to create “the spirit of forgiveness in our personal life”. Wangtin stated that forgiveness occupies the highest place in human endeavor for re-union without which reconciliation and unification cannot be possible. “We must try to create sufficient rooms in our minds for accommodating other friends. To achieve real reconciliation and unification, one must seek forgiveness from all oppositions and people whom he hurt/wounded socially or politically”, Wangtin stated.
Wangtin pointed out that many of his write-ups and expressions might may hurt the sentiment of many people including the leaders of the NSCN (IM), Naga NGOs for which “I am tendering apology seeking unconditional forgiveness from them”. “I wish in future, they will not create any atmosphere where condemnation and criticism falls upon them. I wish, I should not write anything condemning and maligning any faction, particularly NSCN (IM)”, he stated. Wangtin however wanted that the NSCN (IM) should change their mindset to suit other “Naga friends”. Wangtin stated that reconciliation and unification does not mean surrendering of one faction before the other faction but coming together in the spirit of forgive and forget of past mistakes “to form a single organization/government or at least to come to an understanding”.
“Our leaders should change their mind set to broaden the sense of oneness by removing tribalism, individualism and chauvinism”, Wangtin urged and expressed his belief that “love is their only remedial to do away with all forms of selfishness and ism”. “I wish, I should not be the citizen of a particular tribe other than a simple Naga citizen or freedom fighter not should I know what clan I belong to”. Wangtin therefore “humbly” requested all Nagas to look at him as a simple Naga citizen.
Wangtin also stated that he was “sorry” that his expressions may have hurt the sentiment or interest of senior leaders in the NSCN (K) set up for which he sought their “forgiveness”. “Due to frankness and as an out spoken personality, my senior leaders who have already sacrificed many years in national service before I joined the national movement”, Wangtin stated and prayed that he may be forgiven.
On unification, Wangtin stated that this was one thing that all Nagas longed for and that recently there had been ‘counter and counter attacks, condemnation and accusation for unification move carried out by uncle Azheto and his group”. Wangtin expressed his view that whatever the nature of unification may be, the unification move carried out by Azheto must be “nourished and taken care of by all the Nagas for the benefit of the entire Naga people”. “The desertion of former Kilo Kilonser of the NSCN (IM) from Hebron camp might be a highest form of crime for IM, yet it politically benefited the Nagas particularly in different factional camps who could meet one another after the many years of senseless wars”, Wangtin stated and pointed out that the said unification gave him a great chance to meet ‘many brothers and friends’ in different Naga factions.
Wangtin stated that the ceasefire agreement signed on December 7 2007 under the aegis of Nagaland DBs/GBs was between two NSCNs and it was nothing to do with Azheto and his group.
Wangtin pointed out that instead of condemning the Azheto group, all Nagas must contribute their best thoughts to achieve total/broad base unification out of the present move and that “Azheto’s group has not only deserted IM Hebron camp but also has not joined the NSCN (K) too. “However, I believe, he (Azheto) is in contact with all the Naga NGO leaders and NSCN (K) leaders. I wish, equally he should maintain equal closeness with even NSCN (IM) leaders”.
Wangtin stated that even the NSCN (IM) leaders should contribute their best thoughts to Azheto “who seems to be very simple personality instead of attacking him in different corners”. Wangtin stated that everyone must appreciate Azheto for “breaking the ice”.
Wangtin also requested everyone not to give any rejoinder or counter attack to his write-up, adding that it was only his “thinking and not commanding anybody but simply requesting all to reason together for our own good”.
Regarding the coming State assembly election, Wangtin hoped that since all the sixty assembly seats had to be filled by the Nagas alone, no faction should involve in favour of or against any particular political party. Wangtin stated that in the past the NSCN (IM) was blamed for openly supporting a particular party and the DAN was equally blamed for openly sponsoring the NSCN (IM). Wangtin stated that any faction openly supporting particular political party is a crime because such activities narrow down the sacred cause. “We must differentiate between state politic and national politic”, he stated and that State politicians and national leaders have their respective roles to play. Wangtin however suggested that there has to be mutual understanding between the State politicians and national leaders to build the Nation. He suggested that State politicians, church leaders and NGO leaders should bring all different factions together instead of supporting particular faction against other faction. “Let us reason together and come out together with open minds to build confidence and trust among us for our common good”.
NSCN-IM rejects NSCN-K’s call Sangai Express
Kohima, Feb 9: The NSCN(K) today gave a call for broadbased unity among Nagas and a halt to fraticidal strife, which its rival NSCN(IM) rejected.
In a joint statement, the NSCN (K) collective leadership, chairman S S Khaplang, general secretary N Kitivi Zhimomi and armed wing chief Kholi Konyak, said the task of unification was a step towards stopping bloodshed and instill a sense of hope. Unification should not be jeopardized by ulterior motives and called upon Nagas to uphold the sacred cause, it said.
On the other hand, NSCN (I-M) rejected the unification process initiated by its defectors led by Azheto Chophy, charging the NSCN (Unification camp) with extortion and kidnapping for ransom in Dimapur town in the name of Naga unification. Under leadership of Azheto Chophi, NSCN (I-M) cadre led by Azheto Chophi, joined hands with NSCN (K) and formed the NSCN (Unification Camp) in November last for unity among warring Naga underground groups.
Since the development, both sides have leveled charges of kidnappings and extortions against each other in the media with the NSCN (I-M) of late asking law enforcing agencies to rein in members of NSCN (Unification Camp) from indulging in anti-social activities in and around Dimapur.
The NSCN (I-M) favoured a broad based Naga unity on the basis of national principle of the Naga political struggle for self- determination.
No tribalism, equality for all, says Azheto morungexpress
Dimapur, February 9 (MExN): A seemingly prepared candidate of Dimapur III A/C, Azheto Zhimomi said that he chose the Congress party because he is confident of the party’s victory and feels that other parties have vision only for five years. Speaking at his candidature declaration at his residence on February 9, Azheto said that he is a man without bias and that he will work for the people with fairness. “I treat all equal. There will be no tribalism, no priority; all fairness,” he said. Azheto also reminded people that he is a man of the soil and is the first candidate from Dimapur III who is also a citizen of the constituency. “Recollect what the past candidates have done for you. An outsider cannot understand our inherent problems. These few people are enjoying our benefits. Won’t you give me a chance to prove myself?” Azheto added. He highlighted his priority for the constituency with “will repair Dimapur III,” and also has the noble aim of rectifying Naga society with like minded legislators.
Apparently Dimapur III includes a lot of minority communities and this wave of assurance laid down by the candidate is a booster for the candidate’s supporters. Many prominent leaders of the civil society were also present at the programme. Western Sumi Hoho President, Hokiye Yepthomi said that we need leaders who can look beyond tribalism and added, “I have confidence in Azheto that he can produce that.”
Also speaking at the occasion was PCC President, Hokheto Sumi, who said that that he felt disappointed that the mahila candidate could not get the INC ticket and that the mahila supporters were probably unhappy about it but added that the choice of candidate will benefit everyone. Hokheto also gave out some vital information regarding Congress membership. As per the AICC Amendment, the Congress will no longer have primary or active memberships and there will be just the Congress party membership. Also the (I) from the Congress (I) will no longer be used and will simply be referred to as the Congress party. The PCC President very promisingly said that the Congress will form the next government and that the people should put their mandate in favour of the winning party. Azheto Zhmomi will kick start his campaign on February 11 from Tithrongse village.
Cong incapable of defending rights of Nagas: Rio morungexpress
Kigwema | February 9 (Our Correspondent ): Former Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today said that the Congress party in Nagaland despite being a National Party has not been able to defend the rights of the Nagas. “Nagas need to have a local government (regional party government) to uphold the Naga identity and bring about proper development and to pursue the Naga struggle by making a practical approach.” “We will never leave the Naga struggle but uphold it and pursue with non-violence and practical approach,” Rio said while speaking at the NPF Public Rally for NPF candidate, Vikho-o from 14th Southern Angami-I Assembly Constituency at Kigwema ground.
Rio said that the Nagaland People’s Front (NPF) being one of the oldest Regional Political Party in the State as well as the North Eastern Region has been following its policy and principle of permanent peace.
As a regional Party, Rio said that the NPF has been acting as a catalyst of the peace process between the Government of India and Naga underground groups to find a permanent solution to the problem. “If voted to power, we are even prepared to vacate the seats in case a solution arrives for peace and unity between the GoI and the Nagas,” he declared. Rio further added that the NPF has vision and plan for the people of Nagaland while also recalling that the NPF led DAN during its tenure has carried out several developmental programmes.
“Imposition of President’s Rule in Nagaland is unconstitutional, illegal and humiliating to the mandate of Naga people,” he said, blaming the Congress for bringing PR to Nagaland.He urged upon the people of the Constituency to vote for the NPF candidate Vikho-o, as he was a “very experienced person and would work for the people if DAN if voted to power.” Meanwhile, Er. Vikho-o called upon the people to elect him as their MLA and enable him to bring about more developments in the area. He also declared to stand firm for unity, peace and development if voted to power while also added that the NPF led DAN Government has brought about maximum development to the Nagas.
Representatives of various villages, NPF Women and Youth leaders and Khrielezo Secretary NPF Nagaland also delivered short speeches. Earlier, the programme was chaired by Neichüzo, President 14th Southern Angami-I A/C and vote of thanks was delivered by Tepuhopi, advisor NPF Kohima division.
CM reacts to Chinese objections morungexpress
Itanagar, February 9 (Agencies): Sharply reacting to Chinese objections to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu today said, "Spontaneous protests from all sections of countrymen showed how dear the state was to their hearts." He said that Singh's statement, "Arunachal Pradesh -- where the rays of the sun first kiss Indian soil will rise like a new star from the east and emerge as one of the best states in India," was a reflection of the "sentiments of Arunachalees" that Arunachal Pradesh was an integral part of India.
"The reported reaction of the Chinese foreign ministry should be dismissed either as a naive statement or an attempt to throw a spanner in the ongoing peaceful process of settling the boundary dispute between the two countries," the chief minister said in a statement. He said the patriotism of Arunachalees had been proven time and again.
China again rakes up Arunachal issue; India not amused morungexpress
NEW DELHI, February 9 (Agencies): In a fresh display of how the border issue remains an irritant in Sino-Indian bilateral ties, China has verbally protested against prime minister Manmohan Singh’s reference to Arunachal Pradesh as “our land of rising sun.” The verbal protest elicited an immediate response from India which reiterated that Arunachal remains a part of India.
“Arunachal is an integral part of our county. We have elected representatives of Arunachal Pradesh in our Parliament,” said external affairs minister Pranab Mukherjee. This latest diplomatic row clearly shows a hardening of positions on the border issue.
Singh had visited Arunachal Pradesh on January 31, the first visit of a prime minister in a decade. “Arunachal Pradesh is the easternmost state of our country, and the sun kisses the country here first... it is our land of the rising sun,” Singh said during his trip which came shortly after his trip to Beijing. He had also announced a slew of development projects worth Rs 10,000 crore for the state.
But even this statement has managed to rile up China which conveyed to New Delhi, on Friday, that the prime minister’s statement was improper as the two countries are in the process of working out a solution on the border issue. The exchange also shows that the trust deficit between India and China has not been mitigated by the recent high-level visits of Singh and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi to China.
China has never been shy of staking claim over large parts of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly Tawang. It has continued to do so in border talks and also publicly. Ahead of Chinese President Hu Jintao’s visit to India in 2006, the then Chinese ambassador had triggered a diplomatic row by claiming that Arunachal was a part of China, a position that Beijng steadfastly held.
After that, a planned visit by around 100 IAS officers to China last year was cancelled after China refused to give visa to an IAS officer from Arunachal Pradesh and objected to his inclusion in the team. India, however, did not react publicly to that issue either. But the latest salvo shows that even though special representatives are trying to work out a solution, there has been little progress in the talks. The dispute is along the 3,600-km border, particularly on Tawang, which China wants to take control of due to political implications. India’s stated position is that it will not agree to any solution, which disturbs the existing population on both sides of the Line of Actual Control.
There have also been incidents of incursions into Indian territory by the Chinese side. In fact, external affairs minister Pranab Mukherjee, ahead of Singh’s visit to China, had admitted that there had been Chinese incursions into Indian territory. He had said incursions took place sometimes and that India took it up immediately with China.

Manipur govt cries foul over unity claim - AICC nod to integration of Naga areas creates wedge among states OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Imphal, Feb. 9: The Congress and the CPI, partners in the Secular Progressive Front (SPF) ministry in Manipur, today reacted strongly to the contents of the Nagaland PCC’s election manifesto released yesterday in the presence of AICC secretary Siddarth Patil.
The manifesto states that the Congress will continue to remind Delhi about the need to implement the 16-point statehood agreement, including the controversial clause on integration of all contiguous Naga-inhabited areas.
The Ibobi Singh government, as expected, tonight demanded that the AICC withdraw its endorsement of the 16-point statehood agreement with Nagaland and also drop the same from the Congress poll manifesto.
Sources said Ibobi Singh called up a few AICC leaders soon after a meeting this evening with his council of ministers where it was decided that a formal protest be lodged with the AICC.
The Manipur unit of the Congress and the CPI had earlier said the promise was a “political gimmick”.
“The SPF government and its constituent units have not changed their stand on protection of Manipur’s territorial integrity. We will not allow anybody to divide the state,” Congress leader and irrigation and flood control minister N. Biren Singh said.
The state secretary of the CPI, B. Sharma, said the Congress heading the UPA coalition at the Centre would not make a farce of the Common Minimum Programme that includes protection of the boundaries of the northeastern states.
‘No need to worry if Bodos in KA get ST status’ From our Correspondent Sentinel
HOWRAGHAT, Feb 8: A joint conference of premier Bodo organizations — All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU), Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS), Kachary Samaj (KS), Dularai Boro Harimu Afat (DBHA), All Bodo Women Welfare Federation (ABWWF), Dularail Boro Abadari Afat (DuBAA) and Ex-BLT Welfare Society, Karbi Anglong district, held at Langhin Tiniali concluded on Thursday.
Attending the open meeting as the chief guest, Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) chief Hagrama Mohilary said that development of all communities always depends upon unity and peace in their respective regions.
Hence, every citizen of the country should demand the rights granted by the Constitution of India. Accordingly, the Bodo people living in Karbi Anglong, who have been demanding reservation under the Sixth Schedule should immediately be accorded ST status so that they can also contribute towards the development of the district, Mohilary added.
Mutual cooperation between the two communities should be established and both the Karbis and the Bodos should play a pivotal role for the establishment of peace in the hills district, he added. Laying stress on the importance of mutual understanding and cooperation among different castes and communities for the successful solution of any issue, Mohilary said that every community has different problems. If these issues are to be solved, proper negotiation with the Government is a must. However, every community should be able to cooperate and appreciate the efforts of the Government. While speaking on the ST status that has been demanded by the Bodo people living in Karbi Anglong, Mohilary said that the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) should look into the matter. There was nothing to worry for the Karbis if the Bodos in Karbi Anglong get ST status. Rather it would be beneficial for Karbi Anglong, because the Bodo people living in the region are demanding ST status only with an aim to bring advancement in the hills district. He reiterated that if a nation is not independent politically, economically and culturally, there will not be any progress. Mohilary, however, firmly assured that the BTC will never hesitate to help the Karbis living in the BTC region in getting ST status. Addressing the open meeting, Biswajit Daimary, chairman, ARTFED, Asom, highlighted the different facilities available under the organization. He urged the SHGs and unemployed youths to come forward and work under the self-employment schemes that have been designed by the Government.