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06/27/2008: "NGOs questions Naga factions sincerity to resolve Indo-Naga pol conflict Nagaland Page"

NGOs questions Naga factions sincerity to resolve Indo-Naga pol conflict Nagaland Page

Dimapur, June 26: In an unprecedented development in the backdrop of the factional clash at Vihokhu village, three apex Naga organization, the Naga Students' Federation (NSF), the Naga Mothers Association (NMA) and the Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) have questioned the sincerity of the Naga National groups in resolving the Indo- Naga political conflict.

"It is well documented that the Nagas, using every available platforms, has been questioning the sincerity of the Government of India in resolving the Indo-Naga political conflict. We believe that it is time for the Naga people to question the sincerity of our own fellow Nagas in resolving this conflict," said a joint press statement NSF president, Imchatoba Imchen; general secretary, Vivi Nyuthe & NPMHR convener, Atoho Kiho.

Expressing disgust, frustration and pain over the clash, the statement said cannot comprehend the absurdity of continued fratricidal killings among brothers who are all, ostensibly, struggling for the same goal - the inherent right of the Nagas for political self-determination.

The statement pointed out that the escalation of factional clashes in and around Vihokhu village has dampened the hope of the Naga people for a long-sought reconciliation and sustainable peace, particularly in the backdrop of the second Naga reconciliation meeting at Chiangmai, Thailand.

"The clash has made a mockery of the sincere efforts of the Naga people and well-wishers for permanent peace in our blood soaked land," it said.

The statement also wondered whether the Indo-Naga conflict is being used by people with vested interests to consolidate and to entrench positions of power achieved over several years of struggle at the expense of Nagas national aspiration. It asserted that ignoring this ominous development would be disastrous for the Nagas because true power is derived only with the consent of the people being represented. "Once this consent is withdrawn, the legitimacy is taken away," it said.

The statement also called upon all Nagas to be aware of the psychological warfare and covert operations that Nagas are being subjected to by the Government of India. It claimed that these subversive operations are designed to create divisions and distrust within the Naga family, thereby weakening Nagas resistance to the GoI's occupational rule and finally total assimilation into the Indian geo-politics.

"We firmly exhort the Nagas not to lose sight of our common vision in spite of bye-conflicts beign created by our oppressors to divide us, weaken us and to blind us to the beauty of our National aspiration," it added.

Meanwhile, the NSF, NMA and NPMHR have expressed resentment over the unilateral decision of GoI to replace the Chairman of the Ceasefire Monitoring Group, saying the unilateral decision to replace a central figure in the ceasefire agreement without consulting all the involved parties is an utter breach of trust demonstrating total lack of respect and sincerity on the part of the GoI towards the negotiating partners.

"We strongly urge the GOI to take immediate and appropriate measures to redress this avoidable situation, " it added.
Vihokhu Siege Ends in Blood and Smoke morungexpress
Members of the Naga public enter the “NSCN/GPRN” headquarter in search of survivors and to recover bodies of slain cadres. The two-day gun battle between the NSCN (IM) and the “NSCN/GPRN” at Vihokhu ended today. (Morung Photos)
Dimapur | June 26 (Morung Express News ): Cadres of the NSCN (IM) today razed the “NSCN/GPRN” headquarter based at Vihokhu village after two days of intense gun battle. Today’s gun battle started from 3 am and lasted till 12 noon. The fighting which broke on June 24 night ended with the camp going up in flames and leaving seven cadres dead inside the camp. However, it remains to be ascertained to which faction the slain cadres belonged.
Heavy gunfire and even explosions could be heard from nearby Vihokhu village, where the public, district administration, police and security forces had gathered and tried to intervene in the gun battle. Womenfolk carrying white flags and shouting slogans demanding restoration of peace, slowly marched to a check gate leading to the camp. The marching public was served warnings and intimidating blank shots from the NSCN (IM) cadres manning the check gate.
The scene after today’s incident showed that NSCN (IM) cadres had overrun the camp, leaving forty three vehicles and almost all the dwelling burnt to cinders. A “NSCN/GPRN” functionary disclosed that around 150 to 200 heavily armed NSCN (IM) cadres laid siege to the camp and attacked the main check gate, later overpowering rival sentries. Also, information gathered from the public at the scene said that the NSCN (IM) cadres attacked from two flanks and overran the rival cadres who were defending the camp.
The “NSCN/GPRN” functionary informed that all his top leaders and commanders are still “intact” and they would carry out their “mission of attending Naga unity.” It is reported that the top leaders and commanders in the camp left the previous night when there was heavy rain.
A cadre belonging to the “NSCN/GPRN” who managed to escape from the gun battle and ran straight into the public procession at around 11: 38 am. The cadre informed that the attackers had taken position at all the strategic positions. All top functionaries have already left the camp and there is no one else, he added.

Casualties
Conflicting reports on the number of casualties are being received. However, seven dead cadres were recovered from the camp. Police said that four of them are said to be “NSCN/GPRN” cadres, two NSCN (IM) cadres and one “Kuki” person, who is still unidentified. The “NSCN/GPRN” cadres admitted to have had four casualties and two injuries; However, NSCN (IM) sources flatly denied that they suffered any casualty. “Brig” Phungting Shimrang of the NSCN (IM) said that his outfit suffered only one injury.
However, an “NSCN/GPRN” functionary attached with the Publicity Cell asserted that the NSCN (IM) suffered casualties. He claimed that ten bodies are lying at “Konyak Basti” near Vihokhu, which however are not “NSCN/GPRN” cadres.
Police has confirmed that a cadre of the NSCN (IM) was among the seven found slain in the camp.
Meanwhile, reports have been received that in a separate battle at Setrongsh village near Doyapur sub-division two “NSCN/GPRN” cadres and a NSCN (IM) cadre have been killed. Police identified the “NSCN/GPRN” cadres as “sgt” Ekshe Sumi son of Ustuomi village of Satakha and “sgt major” Danial Pochury of Akhegho village in Meluri while the NSCN (IM) cadre has been identified as “sgt major” Venda Shan who is of “Burmese origin.”
An NSCN (IM) source informed that after getting confirmation about the arrival of three Maruti Gypsy vehicles at around 3:00am in the village’s area, the NSCN (IM) cadres surrounded them. In the ensuing gun battle, one of its cadres and two “NSCN/GPRN” cadres were killed.

Moments of uncertainty
The hours this morning at Vihokhu were a mixture of tension and uncertainty, with the public and police fearing for the worst about the number of casualties inside the camp. Earlier, rumours had spread that the warring cadres were prepared to shoot at any one who tried to approach the camp and intervene. However, the womenfolk steadily marched on with the IRB and security forces closely following them, until they reached the check gates. At one point, at around 11:20 am, IRB personnel taking position at the paddy fields retaliated back when they were “fired upon”. An Assam Rifles jawan said that the armed cadres were shooting at the security forces and this was being responded to with fire. He informed that the IRB and the AR personnel have entered the camp and asked the public to move ahead.
NSCN (IM) cadres manning the check gate had even warned the marching womenfolk and the public not to move an inch forward.

Negotiations
The district administration, DMC chairperson, public leaders and GBs and DBs as well took to negotiating. An NSCN (IM) “major” who “negotiated” with the public and district administration demanded a four-hour period for them to regroup and leave. However the administration gave them only two hours. After one and half hours, at 12:30, NSCN (IM) cadres retreated towards Seithekima and Xelhoshe. The public rushed inside the camp.
“They (NSCN-IM cadres) were planning to hang out around here,” said an administrator. “But we were not going to allow that” he said.

Aftermath of battle
Ashes flew from what was before the incident thatched dwellings belonging to the “NSCN/GPRN” functionaries, the publicity cell “office”, the conference hall and other dwellings belonging to the outfit. 43 vehicles (2 Vans, 14 gypsies, 14 Boleros, 7 Maruti Cars, 2 Alto, 2 bikes, 1 Tata Indica, 1 Honda City) were totally burnt. A bulldozer at the site was also damaged and set on fire.
Womenfolk expecting the worst, from inside the camp began wailing and weeping after seeing two dead bodies near the check gate. Anxious civilians went about announcing that the public had arrived and asked for any injured cadre that could still be inside the camp, to step out for help.
Dead bodies were found near bunkers and in trenches; half-cooked meals were found placed on hearths while the smell of burning tyres permeated the air. Tin roofs were incinerated and crumbled sheets of metal while combat fatigues were strewn here and there; some people were seen even collecting empty shells inside the camp. Police, district administration, NGOs and public scoured the site. There are apprehensions that the situation may turn more volatile and take to a worst turn in the days to come.

Condolences
Condolence poured in from both the NSCN (IM) and the “GPRN/NSCN” over the death of their cadres today. “Brig.” Niki Sumi of the “NSCN/GPRN” saluted “the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in defense of Naga nation.” “May almighty God instill courage and pride to the families of our national heroes and martyrs,” he stated in a condolence message.
Also, the NSCN (IM) paid homage to late “sgt maj” Venda who was killed on June 25 at around 10 pm during an attack on an outpost at Tsetungse (Sangtam) village under Dhansiri sub-division in Dimapur. “The NSCN also express sympathy to the bereaved family members and pray that the almighty God bless and give strength to them to face this sorrow and tragedy,” it stated in a message issued through the MIP.
Imchen ‘deeply moved’ by Chiang Mai ‘success’ morungexpress
Dimapur, June 27 (MExN): The joint statement issued from the Chiangmai Naga Peace Summit by rival NSCN leaders VS Atem and Wangtin Naga yesterday, is a reflection of their sincerity at pursuing peace and unity, says Home Minister Imkong Imchen. Expressing deep joy at the statement, the Home Minister today said in a message that the NSCN groups have “rightfully taken the weapon of forgiveness” in ‘their march for peace.’
“I am deeply moved and overjoyed on the successful summit at Chiang Mai, Thailand, specially, on the joint statement from the Naga Peace Summit signed by Gen (Retd) VS Atem and Y Wanting Naga, Dy.Kilonser. This statement speaks volume how sincere and serious both the leaders are while searching for peace, reconciliation and unity amongst the Naga” Imkong said.
According to the DAN leader, the most powerful and effective weapon for the human society and individual is the ‘weapon of forgiveness’ and both the NSCNs ‘had rightfully taken the weapon of forgiveness with a view to stay and march together to attain the ultimate goal of the Nagas.’
This statement of the two faction leaders deserve appreciation from all sections of the people, especially those who care for the Naga cause, he said adding that yesterday’s move is “another milestone” in the annals of Naga history. All concerned citizens and society should stand and defend this statement, to enable the leaders of both the camps to concretize (sic) and march ahead for the well being of the Nagas “I know the difficulties and obstacles that the organizers of this Chiang Mai summit had faced. They too deserve full appreciations from all sections of the people. Let us hope that they’ll be more steadfast in their endeavor, however difficult it may be” Imkong prayed.
Seven Naga rebels killed in fresh factional fight by IANS
Dimapur, June 27 (IANS) Seven Naga rebels have been killed and several injured in a fresh gun battle between rival groups in northeastern India’s Nagaland state, the police said Friday. Group clashes between rival Naga rebel factions around Dimapur, Nagaland’s commercial hub, have led to the death of nearly 40 people since May.
“Rebels armed with automatic weapons attacked a camp of a rival group Thursday located close to Dimapur, leading to the death of seven militants and injuries to several others,” Liremo Lotha, Dimapur superintendent of police, told IANS.
Five of those killed have been identified as insurgents belonging to the newly formed National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Unification) or NSCN(U).
“We have not yet ascertained the identity of the other two,” said Lotha.
Thursday’s attack was carried out by rebels belonging to the frontline Isak-Muivah faction of the NSCN or the NSCN-IM.
The NSCN-IM, engaged in peace talks with the central government since 1997 following a ceasefire, has admitted carrying out the attack Thursday.
“All vehicles at the NSCN(U) camp as well as the hutments, except the church, have been set ablaze,” said Vikiye Sumi, a spokesman of the NSCN-IM.
On May 16, 14 NSCN (Khaplang) and NSCN (U) militants were killed by NSCN-IM attackers in a similar fashion. The second major attack was June 4, when 14 NSCN(U) cadres were shot. Both incidents took place near Dimapur. All the NSCN groups are fighting for an independent Naga homeland comprising the Naga inhabited areas in India’s northeast.
Factional clashes peaked after the formation of the NSCN (Unification) last year after some leaders and members of the Isak-Muivah faction of the NSCN broke away.
Until then, there was just another NSCN faction headed by S.S. Khaplang or the NSCN (K).
Like the Isak-Muivah faction of the NSCN, the NSCN (K) too is on a ceasefire with the Indian government (since 2001) although the latter has not begun peace negotiations with New Delhi. The NSCN(U) is, however, not on a truce with the authorities.
The central government this month replaced the chairman of the Ceasefire Monitoring Group, sending M. L. Kumawat, special secretary (Home) in the Ministry of Home Affairs, to take up the key assignment. The latest attack has come even as church leaders are having a meeting in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to try and reconcile the warring Naga rebel factions.
PRESS RELEASE 27th June'08
Issued by: MIP/GPRN.

In the backdrop of the fast changing situation in the Dimapur District and adjoining areas, the Joint Council of the Government of the People's Republic of Nagalim (GPRN) have taken the resolute stand to oppose opening of new 'designated Camps' in the name of K-group within the jurisdiction of Dimapur District. The villagers are also cautioned not to allow the setting up of such camps in their areas. Any conflict or casualty that may arise in the cross firing, the villagers shall be held solely responsible. Not heeding the GPRN's warning will be at villagers' own risk.

For the deliberate act of inciting violence and blood shed among the Nagas, the government of India is strongly cautioned to retreat from such steps and not to provide reason for bloody conflict by allowing unauthorized camps to come up.

NSCN/GPRN’ on ‘the most dastardly attack’(Brig. Niki Sumi)
People’s Army of Nagaland GPRN/NSCN
The most dastardly attack on Naga unification camp by Hebron camp leading to several losses of Naga patriots speaks volume of IM’s determinent intent to destroy the very social fabric and unity of the Nagas.
Scuttling any peace and unity move of the Nagas is their natural response as is evident not only from the past onslaught but most glaring is the immediate reaction to the Naga reconciliation move which is still underway at Chingmai. Is it any worth of IM’s participation at Chingmai meet while their mercenaries in Naga country are simultaneously engaged in bloody campaign to uproot the very basis of Naga unification.

Countless precious lives have been lost at the altar of their whims and ego, but the Nagas would be bound to realise the futility of IM’s draconian divise policy and a day would surely dawn for the Nagas to unite.
The history shall record the episodes as the darkest hour over and above Indian and Burmese military subjugation of the Nagas. The alien forces shall remain ever alien but the Nagas and her people shall reclaim her right and dignity to leave in peace.
We salute the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in defence of Naga nation. May almighty God instill courage and pride to the families of our national heroes and martyrs. All hail soldiers.

Naga Peace Summit II affirms to pursue peace & reconciliation Nagaland Page
DIMAPUR, JUNE 26: The Naga Peace Summit II convened by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation at Chiang Mai from June 22 to 26 has strongly affirmed to continue pursuing peace and reconciliation amongst all sections of the Naga people. Altogether 43 participants representing various organizations attended the peace summit.
According to a statement issued from the Naga Peace Summit II Chiangmai, the ongoing initiative developed into a wider meeting of political groups and civil societies including some Tribal Hohos besides some international participation from American Baptist Churches and the British and Canadian Quakers. A letter of encouragement was also received from former US President Jimmy Carter calling upon the Nagas "to rise to the challenge of leadership for your people and end the division that has brought so much sorrow over the years".
The meeting expressed profound concern for the present violence amongst the different Naga political groups and appealed to political leaders present and to all concerned leaders of civil societies to make efforts in reducing the escalating tension and mistrust by ending the violence.
The statement said the gathering carried forward the spirit of the first Chiang Mai meeting in May 2008. "Then, we discovered an unexpected, fragile but nevertheless deep feeling of oneness and common purpose. Now, once again, we have been connected with a unity where it is possible to hold diversity while still maintaining the distinct identities arising from the historical and tribalistic divisions of the Naga people.
We have been moved and inspired by the signs of forgiveness and reconciliation amongst us in the meetings. We deeply believe that the desire for understanding and the urge for unity which we found are real. We will not have them taken from us - more importantly, we will not relinquish this to our adversaries who choose to carry forward and foment old conflicts. We must be truly committed to what we have shared and also be true to our humanity. We cannot betray the generations that will inherit our land and we cannot abjure our faith," the statement asserted.
Asserting that the value of such meetings in times of violence and sufferings is to seek ways to nurture long-term positive strategies and relationships, the statement said on these, a gradual reconciliation, unification and a negotiated peaceful solution would be based.
"To this end, political and civil society groups in a context of confidentiality and trust could continue based on mutual process of confidence building creating new opportunities for political initiatives, appreciation of each others roles and frank talk over the continuing conflict in Naga homeland," it added. (Page News Service)

NSCN leaders condemns (Page News Service)

DIMAPUR, JUNE 26: General (Retd) VS Atem, emissary to the Collective Leadership of NSCN, and Y Wangtin Naga, Deputy Kilonser, NSCN/GPRN have jointly condemned the excessive actions of cadres from both the NSCNs in attacking one another in the Dimapur area.
Representatives of both the NSCNs attending the Naga peace summit in Chiang Mai, Thailand opined that such kind of escalation and violence is the main blockage towards achieving peace.
A joint statement issued today from the Naga Peace Summit signed by the two NSCNs leaders said both representatives agreed that their cadres should go back to their respective camps and be confined there, and that any use of non-Naga armed groups against Nagas should be stopped, and cease harbouring such groups.
"Naga people are fighting for a single goal and therefore the feeling of oneness should be created amongst the Nagas through the spirit of forgiveness," the statement said.
Hagrama accuses ABSU for Kachugaon firing
From Our Correspondent Assam Tribune
KOKRAJHAR, June 26 – In a strongly-worded statement on Tuesday, Hagrama Mohilary, chief of BTC accused Gautam Mushahary, secretary, central ABSU for being involved in the case of firing by ceasefire cadres of NDFB and a VCDC member of Kachugaon Rajen Narzary on June 13 in Kokrajhar district.

In a press meet Mohilary cautioned ABSU to desist from using NDFB for attacking BPF members anywhere. While condemning the incident he alleged that ABSU has been keeping arms in most of their offices while they are also taking help of NDFB for masterminding attacks.

At the same time, Rajen Narzary, the said victim revealed that ABSU secretary, Gautam Mushahary has himself confessed before him on June 21 at the residence that ABSU had engaged NDFB in the incident as a counter-measure to serve political interest.

Nagas' freedom: the plain truth Nagaland page
My practical experience of a new selfhood in God, Manifested through the person and work of Christ Jesus enables me to be proud of: and creates a thrill within me whenever I read the great dictum "NAGALAND FOR CHRIST".
As a servant of God and a true patriot, I must first attain the Spiritual power and wisdom. To me, Spiritual power is not knowing the scripture alone but is a matter of purity of heart and fearlessness before the might of man and wrong powers. God assured me that all fears, tears and obstacles shall be melted away before the truth and love.
Sadly, we Nagas seem to have taken this assurai1ce of God very lightly, judging from our tendency to contradict ourselves~ we say we hold steadfast in those powerful words but our actions ten another story. And here we are relentlessly proclaiming "Nagaland for Christ" while we ourselves are the forces against it Its a shame upon the Nagas to rely solely upon others for everything and proclaim "Nagaland for Christ". Each and every Naga by virtue of being born as a Naga should be committed to reform, restore and defend our God given NAGALAND.
It is disheartening again for the innocent and common people of Nagaland that a few Reverends, Doctorates, NGO's & Hohos and leaders are going abroad to discuss and bring "Peace and Reconciliation" to Nagaland.
Dear leaders, don't you know that our illiterate ancestors neither had problems in ministering and governing their villages, regions and communities nor had any scarcities for their livelihood. They were even stronger and better than the Britishers in many respects. Are we not the descendants of those wise, bold and honest ancestors?
Could there be no Naga Joshua, Moses among the Naga Doctorates, Reverends, Theologians, Leaders and the so called nation workers today??? When and who intrusted, commissioned, proposed or under whose mandate or who authorized whom to bring unity, peace and reconciliation from foreign land to our
God-Chosen- "NAGALAND FOR CHRIST' apart from Jesus Christ, the ""Liberated" and the ""Prince of Peace"?
My dear grey haired and bearded leaders, what are we sharing to our children today? Can we not create the "'Table of Brotherhood" by ourselves here in our homeland??? When there is a problem of our own creation, then there should also be ability and wisdom to solve the problem by ourselves. Why should we shift our problems somewhere else? Let us solve this problem within ourselves, and there is absolute possibility before God.
We are all under obligation to the creator, the immortal being and to "Humankind" to defend, nurture and sustain our "Homeland" partaking in the creative, sustaining and redeeming work of God. From the beginning, to the wisdom of the Nagas, there can be no creation without a creator. Let us now remove the mindset of too much dependence on others. God doesn't want dependence on others but He wants inter-dependence on one another.
Be it underground or over ground, be it Church leaders or political leaders, to all Naga Christians - Do you ever stop to ask yourselves things like - " Why am I in this job?" Or "What am I doing for my people"? Or "Where are my people going"? Or "Am I conscious and serious about the half flying, half on foot condition of my "Homeland"? Devil, money, who or what demoralized the Nagas? Nothing but the visionless leaders, money power, ruling power, factional fights has demoralized the Nagas.
Let no man kill but 'Network' together in defence of our 'Homeland'. Enough is enough! Let no Nagas sell the rights of our 'Homeland' neither for a bag of money nor for borrowed power Let no Naga destruct our homeland in the fruitless pursuits for "Naga Sovereignty". What does it matter anyway? We are humans after all at the end of the day.
Oh one cannot deny that it is also the underground factional fight which kept in abeyance the achievement of our goal. Freedom and the achievement of our aspiration will naturally come to us once we are reformed and redeemed from these personal yokes.
God the creator of the universe never gives men the real independence/freedom to a divided people like Nagas; also God never gives men ready-made food or products. When God wants men to have foods, He provides the land, the seed, the rain, the sun but the present Nagas wants to eat and enjoy everything without work, wants to reap without sowing, wants to fight without defence.
To the wisdom of every true / Naga Christian, military victory does not necessarily signify conquest. Our history reveals that Naga people were invincible that they were inspired by all feeling of nationality so intense that we fought fiercely without the fear of guns but with the fear of God.
Let it be known by all Nagas that Freedom is man's birthright. Freedom is free gift of God. If we loss our freedom for what do we desire to live? "Where the spirit of the lord is, there is liberty. Proclaim liberty throughout the land unto the inhabitants thereof" 2 Cor. 3: 17, Lev 25: 10.
"Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you tree" Jesus said (St. John 8:32) God is the author of liberty He has granted us liberty. There is nothing despotic or unfair about the law of God. God's law is declared to be the law of liberty. No constitution or law of any country can be the law of God. Any point of agreements between the people cannot be the law of God.
Freedom is our inherent birth-right, gifted by God. But ungodly people have tried to take it away from us. Fellow Naga Christians, we are a nation under God. "Freedom" which is a tree gift from God must be lifted up in the land.
The right of freedom of a people is not in the hands of any ruler on earth but in the hands of God. God is just waiting for our true repentance from ungodly living. True repentance means turning from selfishness to working selflessly for the humanity and seeking the righteousness of God who holds the Universe. A time of waging war against the "might is right" has come. "The little David could kill Goliath, the giant".
The body is the abode of the soul and the soul leaves when the body dies. Like wise if the nation dies the people will be degenerated or absorbed and vanished off in their own country. "Friends, He said, you are brothers. Why are you hurting each other"? Acts. 7:26.
The devil said to Christ, "If thou win fall down and worship me, all the things will give thee" Jesus rebuked the devil for tempting Him.
And therefore, as Christian (believers of Jesus Christ) we must have the power to rebuke the devil and wrong powers. It is high time we woke up from our stupor and realized the web of distrust, destruction, hatred and misuse we have woven around ourselves. Let us start working towards solving the problems that we have created ourselves. Let us seek for reconciliation within ourselves.
Now is the moment my friends. Now we must can upon all faithful Christians, specially the youths to come forward, contribute what you can do for your God and your "Homeland". Strengthen the hands of our leaders based on facts, truth and then wisdom of almighty God leads towards liberated Nagaland to New Nagaland or Nagalim like Israelites from Egypt to Canaan, to proclaim the freedom of God to the whole world. God bless my Nagas.
Imti John, Director: RBC & YLMC

Rio condemns inter-factional clash, appeals for peace Sentinel
Kohima, June 26: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today condemned the latest eruption of violence between the rival factions of the NSCN at Vihokhu village under Niuland sub-division in Dimapur district.
In a release here, the Chief Minister termed the inter-factional clash as most unfortunate since it coincided with the peace nitiative taking place at Chiang Mai in Thailand, under the call of the civil societies and the Church.
Rio appealed to the underground cadres to listen to the voice of the people, who have been craving for peace and cessation of hostilities between the underground groups, and adhere to the ceasefire ground rules.
He also appealed to the underground groups to work for peace and said the killings among the Naga brethren were completely unjustified and will only create more division and hatred.
Rio said after receiving information of yesterday’s clash between the NSCN-IM and NSCN/GPRN, the district administration officials, along with security forces, rushed to the spot for the protection of the civilians.
He said the government had deployed Assam Rifles, Indian Reserve Battalion and district administration officials in the entire area for the protection of the civilians. (UNI)

NSCN(IM) destroys NSCN(U) Vihokhu camp, seven killed Newmai News Network

Dimapur, Jun 26: In a major development with regard to the ongoing factional clashes in Nagaland, the main camp of the NSCN-Unification Vihokhu, was overrun by the rival NSCN(IM) on Thursday morning. All the leaders of the NSCN(Unification) camping at Vihokhu have fled.

All the hutments of the NSCN(Unification) camp at Vihokhu village, some 25 kilometres from Dimapur were razed down to ashes while over 45 vehicles belonging to the occupants of the camp were also burnt down completely. However, the NSCN(IM) claimed that 60 vehicles had been burnt down.

Seven dead bodies of the NSCN(Unification) cadres were recovered this morning at the site of the clash at Vihokhu camp.

A large number of NSCN(IM) cadres attacked the NSCN(Unification) camp at Vihokhu from three directions including from the main entrance.

Of the 60 vehicles of the NSCN(Unification) burnt, 15 were Maruti Gypsy vehicles, 14 were Bolero vehicles and the rest were small cars and jeeps.

Reports said that kilonsers and high ranking cadres of the NSCN(Unification) had already fled the camp at Vihokhu but the exact destinations where these leaders had headed for was yet to be ascertained. Speculations were doing the round that the leaders of NSCN(Unification) had fled towards Bokajan on the Nagaland-Assam border.

Since the night of June 24, the cadres of the NSCN(IM) had begun to launch the attack on the NSCN(Unification) near the Vihokhu camp.

On Wednesday things became volatile as the clashes between the two rival NSCN factions erupted into a war-like situation. By 9 am on Thursday, the NSCN(IM) managed to overrun the NSCN(Unification) camp at Vihokhu burning down all the properties both movable and immovable belonging to the NSCN(Unification).

In a separate incident of violence, an NSCN(IM) "sgt major" identified as Venda Shan was shot dead by rival NSCN(Unification) cadres at Tsetungse village near Dimapur on Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, with a sigh of relief, the NSCN(IM) said that the valor of the "Naga Army" was again proved against the "reactionaries forces of Azheto-Mulatonou-Kitovi group" in the battle to evict and destroy the "illegal Vihokhu camp".

The NSCN(IM) statement tonight said that a seeming show of "resistance could not last long and bunker after bunker were overrun till the Naga army penetrated right in the centre of the camp forcing the demoralized reactionary forces to flee in panic. The few who were left to defend could not face the onslaught and seven of them were killed in the camp and adjoining areas. Many more were injured as confirmed by the villagers. Seven arms were captured."

As part of the operation to dismantle any structure of the camp, around 60 vehicles were burnt down. Every standing house or camp were also destroyed. The Naga army suffered four minor injuries, claimed the NSCN(IM).

"The illegal camp in the name of an illegal organization under the name styled as NSCN/GPRN was ultimately driven to meet its doom when the government of India went back on its words to act, forcing the Naga army to handle the matter in the manner it deemed fit," stated the outfit while adding, "Any forces however high the claim but devoid of national principle, cannot go on playing on the national sentiments. And the people cannot be taken for a ride on such sensitive issue by resorting to rhetoric war."

A journey from rebels to peaceniks -- Ulfa leaders want their central leadership to sit for talks RIPUNJOY DAS The Telegraph
Amarpur (Sadiya), June 26: It is a long road to peace, indeed. Crossing the Brahmaputra and the Dibang rivers — both in spate — by country boat, a 10-km ride on a mobike and a 5km walk through unformed roads made slushy by overnight rains.
But for the militants, it is a terrain they are used to, having been forced to stay underground and away from the prying eyes of government spies and security personnel.
And even as peaceniks now, it is this terrain they chose to make their first public appearance after declaring a unilateral ceasefire on Tuesday.
Leaders of the A and C companies of Ulfa’s 28 battalion today said they had chosen to break organisational discipline in the interest of peace in the state.
“We had tried to reason with our central leadership, but our efforts failed and we decided to declare the truce on our own,” said Mrinal Hazarika, former commander of the 28 battalion.
They are now expecting that their action would build enough pressure on the leaders to come forward for talks with the government to find an amicable solution to the decades-long insurgency problem. “People want peace,” he said. Addressing a news conference in this small village in Sadiya subdivision of Tinsukia district, Hazarika said they would not be sitting for talks, their leaders would have to.
He said before taking the decision to declare the ceasefire they had held discussions with representatives of citizens’ groups, officials of both state and Union governments and state police.
He said their declaration of ceasefire should not be construed as a split in Ulfa.
Seemingly disappointed with Ulfa’s central leadership and in an oblique reference to those who were at a distance from ground realities, Hazarika said when there was a death in the family only the members and those near felt the pain. “Not those who are far away,” he said, as several cadres armed to the teeth waited outside the village community hall where the news conference was held.
The community hall is next to the residence of Jagaran Doley, an Ulfa militant from the area, who was killed in April 2007.
Along with Hazarika, there were Joon Bhuyan, Moon Borah alias Jiten Dutta, Antu Sonowal and Maradona Russell.
On the issue of sovereignty, Hazarika said even after all these years of a bloody struggle, Ulfa had not achieved its cherished goal. “Even if we assume that we’ll get sovereignty after another 20 years, the indigenous people may not be there to enjoy it,” he said, referring to the continuous immigration.
He, however, denied that Ulfa was not concerned over the issue of migrants as reflected in the leadership’s silence. “That is not true... we are equally concerned, but it is an area which the government of India has to take care of, like fencing the borders and updating the National Register of Citizens. There was no point in us getting into it,” he said.
Pointing to another area of difference with the central leadership, Hazarika said they had objected to the inclusion of certain individuals as members of the Peoples Consultative Group but were turned down. He, however, did not name the members they had objected to. “The PCG has been an abject failure.”
Given that the 28 battalion was mainly involved in the killing of Hindi-speaking people in Upper Assam, Hazarika said the thinking in the organisation at the time had been that such action always woke up Delhi.
He also said the Ulfa leadership never approved of killing of innocents.
“Our instructions have always been clear and that is to target security forces. Our cadres have always tried to plant bombs where security force personnel were expected but some times innocents got killed. But we did not keep quiet... we would take such cadres to task... we did feel bad,” he said.
Bomb attack on peaceful protestors against extortion; 12 hurt, three serious, many including KYKL, UNLF express dismay The Imphal Free Press

Imphal, Jun 26: At least 12 persons including two minor girls were hurt in a bomb blast after suspected militants hurled a grenade at some protestors staging a dharna against demands made by an underground group at the Ningthoukhong bazar under Bishnupur police station around 11.45 am this morning.

The incident occurred when shop owners and vendors of Ningthoukhong bazar were holding a sit-in protest in connection with a demand made on every shop owner of Ningthoukhong bazar to provide two mobile phone hand sets each to a particular underground group. All shop owners and vendors of the areas had shut down their shops from 8 am this morning and were participating in the protest.

During the course of the protest at the bazar, at around 11.45 am, three persons who came riding a Pulsar motorcycle and a NV scooter, suddenly hurled a hand grenade at the protestors which exploded after rolling into a roadside drain resulting in injuries to 12 persons.

The injured persons were immediately evacuated to the nearby Bishnupur district hospital. They were identified as RK Surchandra, 45, son of RK Thmabalsana of Ningthoukhong ward No. 3, Khundrakpam Tomba, 40, son of Kh Bira of Ninghthoukhong ward No. 2, RK Kerani, 28, son of Gulapsana of Ningthoukhong Gopinath Leikai, RK Anupama, 7, daughter of Lembi Devi of Ningthoukhong Ward No. 2, Khwairakpam Brojamohal, 42, of Ningthoukhong ward No. 4, Thokchom Akupi, 10, daughter of Ibungo Singh of Ningthoukhong bazar, Laishram Bashi, 37, son of Thambalngou of Ningthoukhong ward No. 2, Wairokpam Sureshkumar, 45, son of Ningthoukhong ward No. 12, Thokchom Bheigyachandra, 45, of Ningthoukhong bazar and Thokchom Inaocha, 32, son of Mani of Ningthoukhong ward No. 2.

Two of the injured who were only slightly injured by splinters at the hands were discharged from Bishnupur district hospital after first aid. Their names were not enrolled in the hospital register.

Three of the victims identified as Thokchom Akupi who sustained splinter injuries at her left lower abdomen, RK Anupama who was hurt at her right chest, and RK Surchandra who was hurt at his abdomen were later referred to the RIMS hospital in Imphal after their condition became serious this afternoon.

Both the minor girls, RK Anupama and Thokchom Akupi, were hurt when they came out to the bazar with their mothers while the rest of the injured were among the protestors at the sit in-protest at the bazar.

Meanwhile, the public of Ningthoukhong area launched a road blockade along the Tiddim road from this afternoon in the aftermath of the bomb attack, resulting in serious inconveniences being caused to the public along the road.

Many civil organisations and political parties including the HERICOUN, AMUCO and CPI(M) Manipur State Council have expressed their deep concern over the blast at Ningthoukhong bazar which they called an act of terrorists.

The incident clearly indicates that there is no more room for the common people to speak out or demand their democratic rights and also shows the total failure of the state government to provide security to the masses in the state, many organisations commented.

The United People`s Front, Manipur also condemned the act of hurling a bomb at a protest site at Ningthoukhong bazar while making an appeal to those concerned not to repeat such dastardly actions in public areas and expressed its solidarity with those injured in the incident.

In the meantime, the underground PREPAK in a statement signed by one Konthoujam Chingkhei Meetei, secretary in-charge, department of publicity and propaganda of the PREPAK has clarified that the outfit was not in any way related with the blast that took place at Ningthoukhong bazar today. He also condemned the incident.

Meanwhile, a public meeting was held this evening at the Ningthoukhong bazar to condemn the inhuman bomb attack. It was resolved in the meeting that if the responsible group does not give a clarification on or before June 28 the Imphal-Tiddim road would be indefinitely blockaded from the next day onwards.

Indifference of top leaders frustrated us: Pro-talk leaders Tinsukia & Dibrugarh Bureau Sentiel
AMARPUR (Asom-Arunachal border), June 26: The moderate faction of the ULFA, which had defied its central leadership to announce a unilateral ceasefire with the Government, today accused its top leaders of not being interested in negotiated settlement to the outfit’s demands.
In a press conference convened near Sadiya along the Asom-Arunachal border, leaders of the outfit’s 28th battalion alleged that its central leadership was not interested in peace talks with the Government.
“The (ULFA) cadres want peace talks to start and they will put pressure on the central leadership to come forward for negotiations,” the leaders said.
Top ULFA leader Mrinal Hazarika, who was released on bail last week, Jiten Dutta and Rudra Gogoi addressed the press conference at a camp of the 28th battalion of the outfit.
The ‘A’ and ‘C’ companies of the 28th battalion announced the unilateral truce on Tuesday while the ‘B’ company of the battalion opposed it.
Addressing the mediamen, they hinted that following the NSCN style, the moderate faction would like to maintain a designated camp and would wait for the response of the Government. Already the police and security forces have been asked not to carry out any operation in the area.
Referring to the previous peace initiatives by the ULFA-constituted People’s Consultative Group (PCG), the leaders said the PCG completely failed in talks. There were differences of opinion in forming the PCG, they added.
“We repeatedly appealed to the top leaders to take a decision on peace talks keeping in mind the present socio-economic and global situations in mind but they did not respond to our plea,” Mrinal Hazarika said. The ULFA commandant said that the top leadership could hardly be expected to understand the situation in Asom while sitting somewhere else. He said that he had the opportunity to interact with fellow combatants in the jails in Guwahati and Dibrugarh before announcing the ceasefire.
The issue of unabated Bangladeshi infiltration into Asom was also raked up by the moderate ULFA leaders, Hazarika said, adding that it was posing a threat to the State.
Hazarika was emphatic on the need for a debate on the demand of sovereignty saying that the top leaders and the Government should sit across the table. He said that they would proceed towards peace negotiations in phases and would do so in consultation with the general people.
The ULFA leader called on their colleagues in other battalions of the outfit to rethink their positions and call the top leaders to help out in creating a conducive situation for dialogue. He expressed hope that the Government would respond positively to the gesture they had made.
The outfit is known to have camps in the neighbouring country and maintain close links with the fundamentalist and terrorist groups operating in Bangladesh, with ULFA top leaders, including Paresh Barua and Arabinda Rajkhowa, suspected to be running big business empires in disguise in that country.
This has frustrated the ground cadres and the moderate faction identified it as the prime reason for seeking peace. “We have spent 20 years inside the jungle demanding sovereignty. If another 30 years go in this process, Asomiyas will lose their identity, culture , economy and everything to the infiltrators,” said Mrinal Hazarika.
The moderate faction said that unlike the first split of 1991, there would be no fratricidal killings and there would be no pressure on cadres who had not joined them. Jiten Dutta said that till two days back they were in touch the ULFA commander-in-chief Paresh Barua.
At least 40 ULFA militants, many of them in olive green fatigue, were seen in the press conference venue. Almost all of them were carrying weapons. This is the first such press conference in the history of ULFA’s insurgency since 1979.
Meanwhile, several jailed ULFA leaders, including 28th battalion leader Prabal Neog, yesterday issued a statement urging the outfit’s central leadership to sit for talks.
They also castigated the leaders for residing outside the State for such a long period, which, they claimed, has prevented the leaders from truly understanding the problems of the State.
ULFA to generate power in Myanmar border town Sentinel
SHILLONG, June 26: ULFA members staying in a border town of Myanmar have been preparing to set up a generator powered by paddy husk to supply electricity, according to a monthly Bangladesh journal.
“The group is now setting up a generator in Maungdaw town and will start the distribution of electricity from July or August,” the journal, Narinjara News, published by the Arakanese in exile, said today.
The generator would provide power to Maungdaw for five to six hours a day.
The report, which also appeared on another portal, Indo-Burma News, said town leaders welcomed the move as they would receive five to six hours of electricity instead of the current two hours provided by the Government.
“The Government only gives two hours of electricity per four days in our town. We need more electricity so I support the plan,” a town elder was quoted as saying.
The journal said about 20 ULFA members are living in Maungdaw where they run cosmetic shops, a computer cafe, and a telephone booth.
“The relationship with the authorities is very good, including officials from the Army Intelligence Unit in Maungdaw so they can do business in Maungdaw,” he said. PTI
Bodo organizations appeal for safe release of abducted duo Sentinel
Itanagar, June 26: The Bodo community of Asom’s Sonipur district yesterday unanimously appealed for the unconditional release of Getem Apang, son of former Arunachal Chief Minister Gegong Apang and his music teacher Narendra Rai, who were abducted on June 18 last.
Representatives of various Bodo organizations during a meeting organised by the district unit of Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS) at Borpukhuri Bodo National Academy School, near Hollongi, bordering Arunachal, demanded that the organisation involved in the kidnapping should realise them at the earliest without any condition.
The meeting, while condemning the incident, decided to initiate peace process with the organisation involved for early and safe release of both the youths. The meeting also decided that the Gaon Burahs (village headmen) of the entire area would be geared up for negotiation with the organisation involved, though so far no militant group of Asom had claimed responsibility.
Public Relation secretary of central unit of All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) Buddhiram Basumatary while assuring all help in tracing the kidnapped youths said the Bodo society would never encourage terrorism of any form. “Whenever any incident takes place the entire blame goes to the community. We cannot help this as terrorists have no barriers or area of operations,” he said and added that peace process should be initiated immediately.
Gegong Apang, who was also invited to the meeting, while addressing the gathering pleaded the people to initiate measures so as to release his son and his friend at the earliest.
“Please go from village to village and appeal to the abductors so that good sense prevailed over them for early release of the duo,” Apang, a visibly depressed man, said adding, the age-old relationship between Arunachal and Asom should not be distorted by such incidents.
Stating that he was still in dark about the reasons behind the abduction, the veteran Congress leader said during his long political innings he never uttered a single word against anybody. “Though I realise the sentiments of the Bodo people, I never tried to interfere in their movement for freedom but morally supported them,” he said while claiming that he had helped the community in getting the status of autonomous district council. The organisations who participated in the meeting include BSS, ABSU, Ex BLT Welfare Association besides other women and social organizations. (UNI)