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06/01/2008: "Rio for broad-based Naga unity Sentinel (UNI)"

Rio for broad-based Naga unity Sentinel (UNI)

Kohima, May 31: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has reiterated that the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) Government would continue to support broad-based and inclusive efforts towards unification of the underground outfits, as well as the Reconciliation Forum that was instituted by the churches and civil societies.
Addressing the ninth general session of the Naga Hoho at Peren, the district headquarters, about 140 km from Kohima, Rio yesterday expressed concern over the “senseless killings” among the Nagas at a time when the people were craving for peace and progress.
Stating that such killings were hurting the people deeply, he asserted that it must be made known to all underground factions that people wanted the killings to come to an immediate halt.
“Any person or organisation that professes to represent the interest of the people, should also listen to their voice,” he said.
Maintaining that fratricidal clashes had created turmoil, the Chief Minister said the need of the hour was for the Naga society to work towards understanding and unity.
He also reminded that factional clashes, which were political in nature, must be handled differently.
To substantiate his statement, he said the Union Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed the stand of the state government by issuing the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) guidelines in January.
He, therefore, said one must be careful not to undermine the Naga political issue by terming it a mere law and order problem.
In reminding of the desire of the Naga family to live together, under a common administrative umbrella, Rio recalled the four resolutions passed by the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for integration of all contiguous Naga areas.
He reiterated that the state government would remain committed and continue to carry the people’s voice to all concerned agencies on the issue.
He also called for attention towards the Naga family in Myanmar, who had been “suffering for decades”, instead of fighting among themselves.
He impressed upon the gathering to take up their cause so that they might get some political recognition which would pave the way for their socio-economic uplift and added that it should be every Naga’s moral duty to take up the cause of the Eastern Nagas (in Myanmar) with the Governments of India and Myanmar.
Terming the Naga Hoho session of immense significance to the society, the Chief Minister hoped that some concrete decision would emerge in the search for peace and oneness.
Home Minister Imkong L Imchen, Planning Minister T R Zeliang, Power Minister Doshehe, Parliamentary Secretaries and senior bureaucrats also attended the function.
Nagas resist self-examination: Rev. Wati Nagarealm.com
DIMAPUR, MAY30 [NPN] : Speaking on the theme, ‘A campaign for a common voice among the Nagas’ during the symposium session of the Naga Hoho at Peren on Friday, Principal of the Oriental Theological Seminary and active church leader Rev. Dr. Wati Aier lamented that Nagas resist self-examination and held this trait responsible for accelerating the ongoing conflicts among various factions.

He also said that while Nagas confess and repent about individual sins, yet they have failed to address what he termed, as `collective sin'. He said collective sin become ingrained in the agendas and ideologies that seek to justify and defend one's organization and this makes the constituent members cling tenaciously to such agendas and ideologies. Dr. Wati said Naga Christianity cannot afford to negate the evil of the collective sin. He said there was an urgent need among theologically trained and conscientious people within the church and society, to correct the fallacy that God and the Holy Spirit are only for each organization or party’s ideological position.

He said holistic gospel speaks of repentance, both as personal matters and collective histories. He touched the area of the current conflicts, by identifying the causes as being due to the sin of bitterness and anger. He said such are the tools used by Satan and his agents to drive a wedge between friends, tribes, parties, organization and nations. Further, he pointed out the need to address the issue of sin as manifested in the form of anger, slander and lies. He pointed out that the other need was to forgive the wrong doer as it is a command by God. On the issue of reconciliation, Dr. Wati said no party has a monopoly on this matter and therefore said Nagas should resist a politicized version of reconciliation. He stressed that reconciliation was not a sign of weakness but rather of courage and character which leads to wholeness and restoration. He said reconciliation could only come through God and with no preconditions. He also lamented the fact that Nagas traditionally are not inclined towards reconciliation.

Dr. Wati said that in the context of the current disunity and conflicts, both the church and the tribal hohos are called to carry on the mission of reconciliation and healing, irrespective of tribe and ideology. He said the present generation of young people were angry at the older generation for the unwillingness to change. He therefore called upon all Nagas in the name of Christ and for the sake of history, to do what needs to be done, and that is to give Peace a chance.

NISC lauds SS Khaplang for denouncing the fake Unification Group Nagarealm.com NISC lauds SS Khaplang for denouncing the fake Unification Group Nagarealm.com
Though laudable for exposing this renegade faction which in the name of Unification did the opposite it is strange Mr. Khaplang speaks in the interview like he does not know the Unification group merged with the outfit he leads since 1988. Could it be Newmai Network is wrong? Or better said.

Could it be Bijoy Kakchingtabam of the Imphal based Manipuri vernacular daily newspaper Poknapham is wrong? That is hard to believe of course but it is equally hard to believe that SS Khaplang has been in the dark, has been oblivious, of what transpired. Although?

A Naga International Support Center , NISC, www.nagalim.nl
A human rights organization
Press Release
Amsterdam, May 28 2008

NISC lauds SS Khaplang for denouncing the fake Unification Group which recently announced it merged with his NSCN-Khaplang (K)

This is the first time since the Unification group was founded and the so called K leaders back it up in November 2008 that Mr Khaplang said anything about this group of killers, thieves, extortionists and renegades. So, either he did not know about Azheto Chopy and K cohorts or the interview is fabricated. Interestingly Mr. Khaplang accuses the intelligence agency of the Government of India, Research and Analysis Wing, where his outfit has been charged as collaborating with state and national governments.

Thank you for this statement too Mr. Khaplang: “In protecting the identity of the Nagas, there is no need of "NSCN" submitting to either India or Burma. There has never been a single compromise between the authority of India and Burma with the Nagas on any matter. The authorities of India and Burma are trying to divide the unity of the Nagas.” So far nothing but praise for Mr. Khaplan and one wonders why there is rivalry between Mr. Khaplang’s NSCN and the original one he attacked and split off from; the one which is now often called NSCN-IM and the one having peace talks with the Government of India. The answer to that is simple because Mr. Khaplang goes on saying that the NSCN-IM will settle for a state whereas the Nagas from the onset of this long term conflict will not settle for less but sovereignty. The question for Mr. Khaplang thus is: How can he be so sure NSCN-IM has abandoned its principles on behalf of all Naga Peoples?

As far as NISC knows in the talks nothing conclusive has been arrived at. And as far as NISC knows no change of policy has been contemplated or announced either. So, where does this knowledge about NSCN-IM abandoning sovereignty come from? From the RAW? From the Assam Rifles his cadres are often seen with? Mr. Khaplang, considering how ill informed you are about what your own officers do behind your back, NISC wonders by what kind of authority you picture the NSCN, you broke away from, as an organization which does not uphold sovereignty?

NISC calls on Mr. Kaphlang to talk to his former friends and allies who like you profess to be but hardly show in deeds that you are for sovereignty of the Naga Nation.

For more information visit or website www.nagalim.nl or contact us nisc@nagalim.nl

S "Support the truth -The bitter truth"
This refer to two appearing in Your Page on 26 and 27/05/08 respectively." The elites have let us down "and" fictional killing in Nagaland; the clash of Ideologies" by Thepfulhouvi Solo and Jadamba Mall respectively - speakes volumes of truth and nothing but the truth. If some body should feel hurt - remember that truth always hurt pride. Even if half of what has said is true, Nagas should hang their heads in shame put on the sack-cloth; cover their faces with ashes and get sown on the knees and seek for forgiveness lest the wrath of God befall on us.
Where are you?-Spiritual leaders, Political leaders, National leaders, Human Rightist or Leftist, Public organization, etc. etc. Leaders in Christian societies are to be led by the Word of God and not by what the majority think. Jesus brought back the kingdom of God to this world and only in Him is the Hope of the world. In Him there is perfect peace and unity.
Dear Nagas, instead of trying to send 10, 000 Missionaries to preach the Gospel to the Hindus, it is better for us to do so in Nagaland by being in one with Jesus so that the world may believe that Jesus Christ is from God (John 17:11&21). Calling for peace and unity in any other name is futile.
Congratulation Thefulhouvi and Jagdamba -You have spoken the truth- the bitter truth. But only "the truth will set you free" - "of whom He set free will be free indeed" (John 8:32&36).
Therefore it is time for the Naga Christians to come out and speak the truth and "Resist the devil (James 4:7) and he will flee from you".
T L Angami



Press rejoinder
The NPF is compelled to issue this press release in relation to a communique that was published in the print media issued by the publicity cell of the GPRN/NSCN wherein it has been alleged that the DAN Government is one sided in favour of an underground section. This allegation is definitely a one sided allegation that need to be clarified for the knowledge of the people. The DAN government has always had a netural stand with all sections with favoritism to none. Time and again the government has made it clear that it is working for lasting peace, understanding and reconciliation in Naga society. The state cabinet and the political affairs committee and the sub-committee have publicly announced that it will extend support to the Reconciliation Forum that has been instituted by the Church and the civil societies. Several public appeals have been made by the government through various forums for bringing the senseless fratricidal killings to a halt. The killing of IRB jawans was also condemned by the government and the state cabinet and the government had not remained a silent spectator in providing security and safety to the citizens, of which the state government is duty bound. Deployment of the police forces is only meant to provide security to the citizens and not to protect or shield any group. The DAN government is neutral and it is committed towards its role of an active mediator in working towards bringing lasting peace in our land. Once again we urge upon the various groups to commit themselves to understanding and reconciliation so that all sections can together work for peace and harmony, which is the desperate cry of the people. Any leader or group that claims to reoresent the people must listen to the people' cry.
Shilumar Ao Associate Press Secretary



Another trampling of Olive Branch
The habitual backtracking of their own words by Muivah's group has shocked all peace loving Nagas. Decision to disassociate themselves from one year ceasefire initiated by Joint Forum of DBs and GBs supported by Naga Hoho, ENPO, NBCC with representatives from all factions was welcomed by entire Nagas, wherein Muivah's group did assure the support for any decision arrived upon. Yet, conforming to their anti-unity strategy, they have washed their hands off this latest unity move. This comes as no surprise to the Nagas. The reality is that Th Muivah's group has become a stumbling block to the Naga's search for unity, peace and reconciliation. He has single handedly shut the door on Naga unity. Chairman Isak Chishi Swu advocated unification of all Nagas but was warned by Muivah to shut up. Chairman Khaplang, Ato Kilonser Kitovi, General Kholi have expressed their joy at the unification of Nagas while also assuring to even readjust their position in the hierarchy of the NSCN/GPRN for the sake of Nagas. NNC/FGN (Non-Accordist) leadership has also welcomed unification of Nagas and is working closely with GPRN/NSCN for a common cause.
It is clear that the wet blanket in Nagaland is Th Muivah. Indo-Naga talks sans unity of Nagas is a futile exercise. Chairman Khaplang recent telephonic conversation with Isak Chishi Swu was shamelessly misinterpreted to the media by Muivah's group. Isak Chishi Swu was clearly told that unification was possible only on the question of sovereignty of the Nagas. He was further asked to lead the Nagas because sovereignty could be realized only through unification. Th Muivah must know this basic truth. How long will the Nagas cry for unity and peace fully knowing the real culprit? If Muivah is allergic to the idea of Naga unity, let it be his problem. Naga will go ahead, unify and seek our inalienable political right. The issue belongs to the Naga people and not to any particular tribe, community or individual. Naga people have every right to recall any self righteous, ego-centric holier-than-thou individual who equate precious Naga lives to that of flies and insects. Only tyrants and despots possess such evil traits. GPRN/NSCN makes it clear that it will not leave the Naga issue at the mercy of bandits and murderers. The effort of the Naga people to seek unity and reconciliation was embraced with all sincerity because unification of all Nagas precedes political solution. Th Muivah begging for solution in Delhi, oblivious of the ground realities is akin to a dog barking at the moon for better light! Ordering his boys back home to abduct and kill innocent Naga public is a personal vendetta. GPRN/NSCN appeals to the Nagas to see the sinister design of Muivah's group on the latest rebuttal of peace and unity declaration. Sd- Publicity Cell
BJYM Nagaland seeks clarification morungexpress
Dimapur, May 31 (MExN): In response to the statement made by Chubatemjen Ao, NPF Secretary General regarding the BJP Nagaland, the youth wing has issued a clarification that the BJP Nagaland “is not simply a group of individuals but a proper organization unit of a political party which enjoys status of a national party.” A press note issued by K James Vizo, President and C Mhonthung, General Secretary, BJP has stated that BJP Nagaland was not established in random manner but “through a proper procedure and process which the Election Commission of India and the parent body has acknowledged vide the acceptance of the candidates for the party in the state assembly election conducted recently and in the previous state election.” The note asserted that “any literate person would automatically understand as per the stand of the Election Commission of India in the allocation of status and symbol to the party candidates contesting from the BJP ticket during the state assembly election.” It argued that leadership provided by the central leaders throughout its inception till today is also a proof that it is not a party that is organized illegally.
The BJP youth wing has also queried whether the statement made by Chubatemjen Ao is the official party stand of the NPF leadership and if so , the youth wing questions the “short memory of the NPF party” regarding the stand of the BJP throughout the turbulent times that BJP Nagaland unit has stood united with its partner despite upheavals. “Has the NPF party so easily forgotten the largesse provided by the BJP led NDA government at the center which enabled the state to tide over a looming financial crisis when it assumed power in February 2003?” the note questioned.
Furthermore the note mentioned that the Communist Party of India (Marxist), like all communist organization around the world is based on the principal of atheism, and to Chubatemjen’s allegation that the BJP is a Hindu party, the youth wing has stated that it does not need to issue clarification and counter it and that the secular credentials of the party is clear and proven.

Chubatemjen denies calling BJP “a group of people” in Nagaland
New Delhi, May 31 (ANI): Reacting strongly against a news report which apparently quoted him calling the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) “a group of people” in Nagaland, Secretary General of the Nagaland People’s Party Chubatemjen Ao today clarified that he never referred to its alliance partner in “such a way”. Talking to ANI, Ao said that his remarks have been quoted out of context and he was “talking about all political parties as a group of people with different background and ideologies and never mentioned BJP in particular”.
NPF Secretary General and one of the founding members of the party said that his main purpose of his recent visit was to seek help from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI (M) to restructure his organization as a cadre based party on the way the Left party is organized. Ao informed ANI that he also met the BJP leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy, who is in charge of the saffron party in the North East, for a brief interaction where the NPF delegation discussed the alliance arrangement and ” how to strengthen it”. In the elections held in February this year the NPF returned to power second time consecutively after the defeating its main rival Congress in Nagaland. In the sixty members Assembly NPF led Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) won 26 seats and with support of two MLAs each from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and four independents it formed the government.
This is the second time NPF and the BJP fought elections together and formed the government. In the last Assembly the BJP had seven members most of them defected later on to different parties. In the present House the party has two seats.

Shorter span for NDFB truce OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
New Delhi, May 31: The ceasefire between the Centre and the National Democratic Front of Boroland (NDFB) will be extended for a “shorter period”.
This decision was taken at a meeting between home ministry officials and a six-member delegation of the outfit yesterday.
The suspension of operations agreement ended today.
“The final approval has to come, but it will be extended for a shorter period of less than six months,” a home ministry source said.
According to sources, a final approval of the home ministry could not be taken yesterday because of the joint secretary-level talks between India and Bangladesh and the weekend starting today. A decision is likely to be taken on Monday, they said.
With factional fighting continuing unabated in the Bodo areas, the shortening of the period for suspension of operations is perceived as a pressure tactic by the Centre to send the message that New Delhi does not approve of violence during the ceasefire period.
The NDFB has not been in direct conflict with security forces but is locked in a turf war with the Bodo People’s Front (BPF) whose chairperson Hagrama Mohilary is also the chief of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC).
The BPF was born out of the disbanded Bodo Liberation Tigers (BLT) that never saw eye to eye with the NDFB despite pursuing the common goal of “Bodoland”.
The BPF is part of the Tarun Gogoi-led Congress government in Assam.
The NDFB had asked for the army to take over the entire area from state police which, it alleged, was backing “state-sponsored terrorism”.
Mohilary alleged that the former BLT cadres were facing threats from the NDFB.
For the Centre, the NDFB is an important force in Bodo areas, bordering Bhutan.
Ulfa enlists Bangla aides - Recruits help smuggle arms & rebels across border A STAFF REPORTER The Telegraph


A Karbi militant surrenders before P.K. Mishra, inspector-general of the BSF, at the Patgaon camp in Guwahati on Saturday. Picture by Eastern Projections
Guwahati, May 31: Ulfa is recruiting Bangladeshi youths to help the movement of arms and militants across the international border, the additional deputy inspector general of BSF (Shillong range), V.S. Sikarwar, alleged today.
The security forces came to know about the development after the BSF arrested a Bangladeshi national, Parameswar Koch, at Tura in Meghalaya on Monday.
Sikarwar, who was attending a surrender ceremony at the BSF’s Patgaon camp, said Ulfa and several other militant outfits in the region have been recruiting youths from Bangladesh, especially in the border areas, in recent times.
“These youths are mostly used to help in cross-border activities vis-à-vis pushing in arms and movement of militants.”
Three Karbi Longri North Cachar Hills Liberation Front militants laid down arms at the Patgaon camp today. The trio — one a trainer, the second a tax collector and the third a new recruit — deposited an AK-47 rifle and two brand new pistols. The trainer, Janaram Terang, is a martial arts expert who used to train the outfit.
Sikarwar said Parameswar, a Hindu, had been staying in Bangladesh with his family for several years now. He had joined the outfit in 2001 and was working under the in-charge of Ulfa’s Bokugora camp in Bangaldesh, Ranju Choudhury.
“He knows the areas well and has being helping Ulfa push in arms and helping cadres to cross the border.”
The BSF also apprehended one Hilal Ahmed, a Harkat-ul Jihadi Islami (Huji) militant from Punnagram in Karimganj on May 13. “He has connections with various fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh,” Sikarwar said.
BSF inspector general P.K. Mishra said the force has managed to achieve a huge success in the border areas and in Golaghat and Karbi Anglong districts.
“In the last 11 months, the unit has killed one KLNLF militant and apprehended 51 others, motivated six militants to lay down arms and seized a huge quantity of arms and ammunition,” he said.
Apart from counter insurgency operations, the 16 battalion of the BSF has also conducted several medical camps in the interior areas of Karbi Anglong and Golaghat districts, he added.
In another development today, an Ulfa militant, Sanat Gogoi, surrendered at an army camp in Duliajan.