08/02/2008: "NSCNs clash again morungexpress"

NSCNs clash again morungexpress

Dimapur, August 1 (MExN): There was one casualty in a gun battle between the NSCN factions at Kuhuboto area, under Niuland this evening at around 4 pm. The slain cadre is said to be one “sgt maj’ Z Viketo Achumi of “NSCN/GPRN,” hailing from Litsami village in Zunheboto. It is learnt that his mortal remains have been brought to Kuhuboto town, and the Kuhuboto Town Council will take care of the burial. The situation in Kuhuboto area is said to be tense but under control.
According to the president of Kuhuboto Ghukhu (Area) Public Organisation Kakiye Zhimomi, the firing started at 3:30 pm at Nito Farm which is adjacent to Kuhuboto. The public and the 11th IRB personnel stationed at Kuhuboto tried to intervene in the gun battle but they were prevented by the NSCN (IM) cadres, so they stayed around 100 meters away from the farm, Kakiye informed.
The Assam Rifles, ADC Niuland, SDPO Niuland also arrived at the spot, but they were also prevented by the NSCN (IM) cadres from intervening in the gun battle. There were more than 70 NSCN (IM) cadres, Kakiye informed. The gun battle lasted for nearly three hours. Police also confirmed the death of the “NSCN/GPRN” cadre. There were reports of more deaths, which could not be confirmed or ascertained.
Meanwhile, KGPO president, Kakiye Zhimomi has appealed to the underground cadres not to exchange fire or fight in civilian-populated areas. He also appealed that the cadres should not prevent the public and the security forces from securing the lives of innocent public members, like old folks, children and women who get trapped in such battles.
‘Revoke ban on Sumi Hoho and Western Sumi Hoho’
‘Revoke ban on Sumi Hoho and Western Sumi Hoho’ morungexpress
Dimapur, August 1 (MExN): Foreseeing further aggravation of the already worsening Naga situation, the Tangkhul Naga Long today made a vehement appeal to the outfit NSCN (IM) to revoke the “ban” imposed on the Sumi Hoho and the Western Sumi Hoho. Calling an end to all malicious campaigns against one another, the Tangkhul Naga Long also, in a significant statement today, sought forgiveness, even as the community has forgiven all who have wronged against them.
TNL to reach out to all Nagas in the spirit to seek forgiveness and to forgive“…in the spirit of reconciliation, the Tangkhul Naga Long in all humbleness appeals to the joint council of National Socialist Council of Nagalim to reconsider their decision and revoke their ban order. From our past experiences, we share our profound prayer for SH and WSH leadership for the courage and wisdom to resolve the issue in right earnest” the hoho appealed. The Tangkhul Naga Long expressed belief that the Naga people would be most benefited if all perceived and real differences are addressed peacefully through dialogue so that a common understanding can be arrived at. “As a nation Nagas must learn and have the will to address all differences through democratic means” the hoho said in a statement appended by Stephen Angkang, president of the hoho.
The hoho also acknowledged that the manner in ‘which we may have demonstrated and extended our support to the Naga movement, has caused deep hurt and anguish to our fellow Nagas and for this we have said in 2001 in Naga Hoho Assembly at Kohima and reiterated again in Ching Mai meet-II in June 2008.’
“We are sorry; please forgive us and we have forgiven to those who have hurt us. In recognizing our own weaknesses as human beings, we feel that a time has come for all Nagas to honestly search our hearts and actively contribute to genuine reconciliation. We believe that through the principle of forgiveness in upholding the spirit of Naga nationhood, Nagas can once again proudly assert our common cause for freedom” the Tangkhul Naga Long stated.
The Tangkhul apex expressed sadness that at this juncture, when Nagas are weary of internal violence, hatred and divisions, and when Nagas are seriously working and praying for the hard-earned political talks and for genuine reconciliation, the two Sumi frontals were ‘banned.’ “We believe that such decisions will only aggravate the situation and hamper our common hope to be reconciled with one another” the organization reminded.
The Tangkhul Naga Long makes a sincere appeal to all the Naga political groups to refrain from engaging in all forms of violence; to stop destroying properties and to end all malicious campaigns against one another. “All these unwanted activities are only strengthening our common foe, and weakening the Nagas. In the true spirit of reconciliation the Tangkhul Naga Long appeals to all Nagas to give the Forum for Naga Reconciliation the opportunity to pave the way for healing and reconciliation to take place among the Naga people” it appealed.
Meanwhile, the Tangkhul apex added to have launched a series of consultative meetings with various frontal organizations within the Tangkhul community in response to the common cause for genuine reconciliation amongst all Nagas as initiated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation. Consequently a committee has been formed with the responsibility to reach out to all Naga tribes irrespective of territorial demarcation to address all past differences and to strengthen the Naga common aspiration in the spirit to seek forgiveness and to forgive. “We consider this approach as an important step for true healing” the organization said.

Jamir stresses on literature By Correspondent Nagaland Post| Mokokchung01/08/2008 Maharashtra Governor Dr. SC Jamir Friday stressed on the importance of literature in the development of human civilization during the release ceremony of four book under the aegis of the Ao Senden Literature Board (ASLB).
Releasing the four books - ‘Pentochepchep Ritsüng’ by W. Chubanungba, ‘Sangnaro Osep’ and ‘Sangshir’ by Satemmeren Longkumer and, the Rev. C. Walu Walling’s edited version of ‘Down the Memory Lane Vol 1 Mission to the Nagas’ by Rev. & Mrs. Bengt. I. Anderson - here at his private residence, Jamir also spoke on how the South-East Asia and other European countries were taking immense interest in learning English language.
He also encouraged further advancement in Ao literature saying Ao subject was presently confined to the secondary levels.
Dwelling on the Naga political problem, Jamir said “factions and defections” and killings have occupied centre stage in the present situation and that Nagas have grown so used to killings that even while reading newspapers, they tend to focus on “how many killed” while sidelining other important news. “If our foundation is on the basis of factions, then where do we stand?” Jamir asked.
Lamenting the divisions and fear psychosis that have gripped Nagas, the Governor said “No Nation can grow in an atmosphere of fear.”
Jamir called upon scholars and said it was high time to depict the present state of Nagaland. The release program today was attended by members of ASLB, Ao Senden, Watsu Mungdang, AKM and others.
In fear no society can grow: Jamir (Page News Service)

MOKOKCHUNG, AUGUST 1: Expressing concern over the unabated killing taking place in Nagaland and the subsequent fear psychosis prevailing in Naga society today, Governor of Maharashtra, SC Jamir on Friday asserted that no nation or its people can grow in a state of fear.
The Maharashtra Governor was speaking at the release function of two Ao books and an English book, organized by the Ao Senden Literature Board (ASLB), at SC Jamir Kilem, Mokokchung town today.
Jamir regretted that today Nagas speaks one thing but act differently and instead of living in cohesion there is animosity, which he opined is responsible for the fratricidal killings taking place in Naga society.
"We only think of our personal interest, not about the ills taking place in our society," he lamented.
On the occasion, Jamir also spoke on the prevalent trend in Naga society where no individual or organization can truthfully speak his or her minds freely.
We are today restricted from speaking our minds. We are constrained from saying unity is good; that the good is good and bad is bad. This is because there is disunity amongst us. This is perhaps the reason why our goal has not been achieved so far, he said.
Jamir maintained that if we really care about the future generation, all Nagas have to rise up today with clear visions and goals for what they want to leave for their children.
"If we don't do what needs to be done today, our children will also suffer," he added.
The books 3 books today by Jamir are Pentochepchep Ritsüng written by W Chubanungbai; Sangbaro aser Sanglir written by Sademmeren Longkümer and Down the Memory Lane: Mission to the Nagas written by Rev. Walu Walling.

NSCN clashes unwarranted: Khekiho (Page News Service)
DIMAPUR, AUGUST 1: MP (Rajya Sabha), H Khekiho Zhimomi has termed the recent spate of violence and clashes between NSCN factions as unwarranted and totally against the general public outcry for peace and harmony.
In a press release today, Khekiho said at this rate of confrontation and counter killing, the commitment of the Naga National struggle in the eye of the world appears reduced to a lower cause and hence must be stopped immediately.
The reports of even the extended family members of the National workers being charged and targeted will only further intimidate each other and aggravate the situation uncontrollably. Also, the properties both movable and unmovable being destroyed and damaged is only draining the economy of the state, he said.
Khekiho also urged the NSCN (IM) and the Sumi Hoho and Western Sumi Hoho to show magnanimity in resolving whatever issues through dialogue. Towards this end, he also offered his goodwill support and services.
Factions exchange fire at Nihokhu 1 NSCN (K) cadre killed

DIMAPUR, AUGUST 1: Although timely intervention of the district and police officials prevented further clashes at Pukhato village on Thursday after a heavy exchange of fire between both the factions of NSCN, they continued their battle late night at the same place and today afternoon at Hito Farm under Nihokhu village.
Sources said that the NSCN (IM) cadres, who had moved out from Pukhato village today afternoon were ambushed by the NSCN (K) cadres at around 3.30 p.m. Sources from Kuhuboto said that the NSCN (IM) cadres were ambushed by the rival cadres while they were moving towards Vihokhu after vacating Pukhato village. Both the factions exchanged fire for almost half an hour, in which one NSCN (K) cadres, identified as "ss" "maj" Vikheto, s/o Hekuto of Litsami village was killed.
The stand-off between the two factions continued for hours, although firing stopped at around 4 p.m. Village elders led by Kuhuboto Gakhu Public Organization (KGPO), IRB personnel and police tried to enter the village but they were prevented by the NSCN (IM), who warned them not to enter. It was only after 2 hours, that the officials of 11 IRB, district officials, KGPO president, Kakiye Zhimomi and Commander of NSCN (IM), V Chishi met together and discussed about leaving the village. However, the NSCN(IM) requested the public and the IRB not to enter the village as they would leave the village Saturday morning.
Talking to Nagaland Page, KGPO President, Kakiye Zhimomi said that the situation was normal, but the NSCN (IM) cadres were still there in the farm. He said that district officials, police and Assam Rifles had asked the armed cadres to vacate, but the NSCN (IM) insisted to stay back today and move out only tomorrow morning. He also disclosed that the body of the slain cadres of NSCN (K) was lying in his house at Kuhuboto.
Zhimomi further said that the funeral service of the NSCN (K) cadre would be held at Kuhuboto tomorrow. He said that the KGPO has taken the responsibility to bury the body of the deceased in Kuhuboto.
Meanwhile, the KGPO has appealed to the armed cadres of both the factions of NSCN not to indulge in exchange of fire in civilian populated areas, as it endangers the lives of the elderly people, as well as school going children.
Zhimomi said that when the public organizations, district officials and security forces try to prevent the cadres from gun firing, they should not be stopped. (Page News Service)

FGN on Chiangmai meet Nagaland Post
In consonance with the genuine reconciliation of all the Naga groups, the 1st Chingmai meeting gave a ray of hope for cessation of hostilities. The hope of the people was betrayed as loss of lives and arrest of even participants of the Chingmai meet ensued. The lives of eleven Naga Army cadres fell right after the meeting. Mr. V.Nagi, a participant at the Chingmai meeting was arrested and kept hostage resulting into intervention by civil societies.
The 2nd Chingmai Meeting turned out to be a mockery of the very purpose of reconciliation and cessation of hostilities. Even as joint statement was issued for the consumption of people, Vihokhu Camp was on fire. Life attempt on a participant (at the 2nd Chingmai Meet) have reflected total lack of regard and sincerity towards other groups and leaders. Mr. K. Pushuo Khiamniungan, Chaplee Kilonser, FGN had a providential escape on his life bid on 29th July 2008 by cadres of NSCN (IM).
While the FGN have participated in the Chingmai meetings with the hope that all groups have equal sincerity and commitment, the turn of incidents as above have demonstrated futility of the entire exercise and subdued the genuine intention.
The two main reasons behind unabated killing in our land today are stated here for the people to ponder :
1. Patronage of a particular faction against the other(s).
2. Ceasefire with Government of India has given permission to possession of arms by cadres. This serves the very purpose of the enemy as it has facilitated unabated killing amongst brothers.
Sd/- SULUNEYI VERO DEPUTY SECRETARY
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND.

Kidnapping scare Alarm reduced to a farce By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Aug 1: With the people alert and inquisitive following the spate of kidnapping children, a incident occurred at Kyamgei Maning Leikai in Imphal East district this afternoon which appeared as if a teenaged was being kidnapped, however it turned out be a fracas amongst some youths.
At about 1 pm, local saw Chungkham Bung (28) s/o Jatra of Kwakeithel Thounaojam Leikai and Soraisham Chitaranjan (28) trying to take away Amom Khegarcop alias Bugie (18) in a car (Fiat Palio) bearing registration number MN-01W/0714).
On seeing the scene, local people rushed in and rescued Bugie. However, Bung and Chitaranjan managed to escape speeding away in their car.
But the real story turned out that Khegarcop was coming back from Kyamgei Muslim village after consuming some SP capsules on a bicycle. On the road, he came upon Bung coming in the car.
Then Bung got down from the car and frisked Khegarcop demanding all SP capsules he had. Bung again demanded Rs 500 asking Khegarcop to get into the car if he did not have the money.
As the two were engaged in a tussle, the local people rushed in. On seeing the people, Bung and Chitaranjan sped away leaving behind Khegarcop.
According to reports, Bung was reinstated to his post as Rifleman in 4th IRB only recently after he was detained under NSA after he was nabbed by AMADA with SP capsules and a country made pistol.
On hearing about the incident, a team of Singjamei police came there where they were provided registration number of the car. Subsequently, the car was seized.
Police asserted that the incident was not related to kidnapping children but it was result of a quarrel among drug abusers.
Absu to hit streets on schools - Protests, ‘mass crying’ lined up to highlight govt apathy OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kokrajhar, Aug. 1: The All Bodo Students’ Union (Absu) today announced a series of agitation beginning August 11 to highlight the problems fa-ced by Bodo-medium schools.
The president of the union, Rwngwra Narzary, told the media that despite Absu’s demand for better education for students of the Bodo-medium schools, “we have been observing that instead of taking an initiative, the state government is trying to push the union to take to the path of agitation”.
“We want to let the Assam government know that unless it takes the initiative to solve the problems through dialogue, Absu can challenge any situation and even go for non-stop democratic agitation to fulfil its mission,” he said.
The students’ union will observe August 11 as “Sorrow Day” when its members will fly the Absu flag at half-mast and wear black badges at educational institutions across the state.
The union will stage a three-hour dharna in front of block elementary education offices on August 29.
September 11 will be marked by an hour of “mass crying” on national highways without affecting traffic and burning the effigies of the education minister throughout the state to draw Dispur’s attention to the problems faced by the Bodo-medium schools.
The union is demanding creation of a directorate of education for Bodo-medium schools with separate financial budget provisions, provincialisation of all Bodo-medium lower primary, middle English and high schools, appointment of Bodo officers in the tribal areas of Assam, filling up of vacant post in schools, appointment of Bodo lecturers and subject teachers in Dibrugarh and Silchar universities and higher secondary schools, enhancement of ST scholarships and its regular distribution, setting up of a central university at Kokrajhar and of medical, engineering and veterinary colleges in Bodoland.
8888 spirit
Mizzima News

Saturday, The popular 1988 uprising will be 20 years old this August. The Burmese people have not yet enjoyed the benefits of democracy though they marched through a hail of bullets armed with their resolute will to achieve democracy. -The departed souls of those who were killed on the streets while they were protesting peacefully are still drifting nowhere. Some forgetful people pretend to be saviours and are saying, "This is not good, do as I say".

Anyway the '8888 uprising' was not in vain. It highlighted the injustices existing and showed the real way out and ensured the end of 'evil'. We cannot blame anybody for not achieving victory even after 20 years. It is of great pride and glory to see the flame of the 8888 spirit still burning brightly.

The strong vitality of this spirit, under repeated attempts to extinguish it with loaded guns and bayonets is the victory of 'good'. The perpetrators wished this spirit to die but they failed.

The people were fed up and began despising the one-party dictatorial rule under the banner of the then 'Burma Socialist Programme Party' (BSPP) after suffering for a long time. The people followed the leadership of daring students and youths and expressed their will and desire until the uprising reached its climax on 8th August 1988. The ruling party BSPP finally collapsed despite its monopolistic power and backing by the junta. It is not a spontaneous development, achieved only after a lot of sacrifices by the students and people.

After that, free and fair general elections were held in May 1990 for the first time in modern Burmese history. The Burmese people got the chance of exposure to the outside world to some extent from a totally isolated situation where they were blindfolded and gagged. The current developments are the fruits of the 8888 uprising. Human history would not have developed to this stage if everyone thought, "Nothing will be achieved even if I do it", the indifferent thinking.

There are many challenges ahead. But we should not forget there will always be opportunities to cope with all these challenges by seeing the exemplary role of the 8888 uprising.

Bush looks to Thai trip to raise Burma awareness Mizzima News

Chiang Mai - United States President George Bush is planning on using the occasion of his upcoming stopover in Thailand to meet with Burmese dissidents and press for change inside Thailand's troubled neighbor.

In an interview with Suthichai Sae-Yoon of the Nation Multimedia Group (Thailand) and released by the White House yesterday, Bush described Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi as "a very heroic woman that was elected overwhelmingly by her people, and has now been under house arrest by a group of military guys that just simply won't allow the will of the people to -- to flourish."

The president also reaffirmed his commitment to meet with human rights and Burmese activists during his stay. "I will be speaking to activists to let them know that the United States of America hears their voices. And, you know, it's a tough issue for some countries," said the President from the Map Room in the White House.

It is expected that Bush will meet with Burmese dissidents in Bangkok on August 7th at the residence of the U.S. Ambassador.

Burma's generals have long drawn the ire of the human rights community, most recently over the inadequate and inefficient handling of relief operations in the wake of Cyclone Nargis – which resulted in the death and disappearance of some 140,000 Burmese citizens.

When confronted on the apparent failure of a U.S. led sanctions approach to pressure Burma's generals for change, the President was quick to blame the lack of success on the refusal of all countries to maintain a similar posture.

"(T)he idea of unilateral sanctions, they're effective only to a certain extent. And, therefore, other countries must also join, and, frankly, there's some countries in the neighborhood that aren't interested in joining," explained Bush.

The ten-country consortium of ASEAN, of which Burma and Thailand are each members, has consistently balked at considering comprehensive sanctions against Burma's generals, instead preferring a policy molded around engagement.

Only two months ago the Thai energy firm PTT Exploration and Production inked the latest economic partnership with Naypyitaw – Burma's capital. The agreement concerns the development of the M9 block in the Gulf of Martaban. Eighty percent of the field's natural gas is to be exported to Thailand.

While the President is in Bangkok, the First Lady, Laura Bush, is expected to make a trip to the Thai-Burma border area in the vicinity of Mae Sot – opposite Myawaddy in Burma. The First Lady has been a staunch supporter of Aung San Suu Kyi and elements within the Burmese opposition movement for five years now.

The President and First Lady are set to arrive in the Thai capital next week ahead of attending the Beijing Olympics – set to commence on the 20th anniversary of the 8-8-88 nationwide uprising in Burma, which resulted in the deaths of at least 3,000 civilians at the hands of Burma's military.

Despite numerous organizations and activists pushing for the President to make a political statement out of the Games, specifically referencing China's continued economic and political support for the Burmese regime, Bush remains adamant that he will not politicize the Beijing Games. "I don't think the Olympics should be politicized," he told Sae-Yoon.

However, the President earned a sharp rebuke this week from Liu Jianchao of the Chinese Foreign Ministry following his meeting with Chinese dissidents in Washington on Wednesday.

Nagalim.NL News

08/02/2008: "NSCNs clash again morungexpress"