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06/06/2009: "India's policy on Myanmar is discouraging IndoBurma News The Brunei Times Nehginpao Kipgen"

India's policy on Myanmar is discouraging IndoBurma News The Brunei Times Nehginpao Kipgen

INDIA is an immediate neighbour of Burma (Myanmar), a country which has been plagued by political crisis for over four decades.
Not only the two countries have shared border, but India and Myanmar are homes to millions of people from the same ethnic community, separated during the creation of India and Myanmar in 1947 and 1948. Examples are the Kukis, the Nagas and the Shans, who live side by side along the Indo-Myanmar region.

In the late eighties and the early part of nineties, the Indian government was noticeably sympathetic and supportive to the Myanmar's democracy movement; the Myanmar activists were openly welcomed and sheltered in the Indian soil. India was more vocal on human rights and democracy.

One notable staunch supporter of the Myanmar's democracy movement was George Fernandes, the then Indian defense minister of the National Democratic Alliance coalition government. His official residence housed Myanmar democracy activists, where a large picture of Aung San Suu Kyi, the 1991 Nobel peace laureate, was placed.

The support for Myanmar's democracy movement faded with the introduction of India's Look East policy. Its foreign policy has undergone a dramatic shift from pro-democracy to pro-military. The policy shift began during the Congress government of prime minister P V Narasimha Rao in 1991, and augmented by the Bharatiya Janata Party under prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee (1998-2004).

The salient factor for India's policy shift was its national interest and security. Opening doors to Southeast Asia was a gateway to expanding its much needed international market.To tackle the rising insurgency problems in its Northeast part of the country and countering China's influence in the region were the primary security concerns.

As long as its rival China is economically and strategically engaged in Myanmar, India is likely to stick with the defunct non-aligned movement doctrine of non-interference in the internal affairs of others, which serves its national interest. There is no foreseeable sign, at least in the near future, that New Delhi will retreat from a sweetheart relationship with Naypyidaw.

While the international community, from West to East, is outraged at the trial of Aung San Suu Kyi over charges of violating her house arrest for allowing William John Yettaw, an American visitor, to stay in her lakeside home in Yangoon, India has not lived up to the expectation of the international community. Its economic interest and fear of antagonising the Myanmar military has prevented India from advocating human rights and democracy. The safety of Aung San Suu Kyi is one rare common concern shared by the pro-sanction and the pro-engagement nations. Suu Kyi's trial has sparked an unusual comments from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), which traditionally been silent on Myanmar.

"As a member of Asean, Myanmar has the responsibility to protect and promote human rights," said a statement released by Thailand, which currently chairs the bloc, on May 19. "With the eyes of the international community on Myanmar at present, the honour and the credibility of the government are at stake," added the statement.

Similar statement was expected from India, the largest democratic nation on earth, but never to be heard.

Engaging Myanmar is not a wrong policy. However, engaging the military generals for the sole purpose of economic partnership and counterbalancing China's influence in the region is discouraging.

New Delhi's overture to root out the Northeast Indian militants from Myanmar also remains an unanswered question; the militants still enjoy a free passage.

Myanmar will not be under a military dictatorship forever. It is important that a democratic nation like India does not compromise its cardinal democratic values just to dance in the tune of the Myanmar military generals.

The new Congress-led coalition government, under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi and prime minister Manmohan Singh, needs to look beyond the Northeast militancy problem and the communist China.

While the United States of America is reviewing its policy toward Myanmar, India should offer every possible support to formulate a coordinated international strategy. A democratic Myanmar will better serve the interest of a diverse and democratic India.

* Nehginpao Kipgen is general secretary of the U.S.-based Kuki International Forum (www.kukiforum.com) and a researcher on the rise of political conflicts in modern Burma (1947-2004). He has written numerous analytical articles on the politics of Burma and Asia for many leading international newspapers.
NPMHR demands enquiry into Mao Gate incident (EMN)
DIMAPUR, JUN 5: Strongly condemning the Mao Gate incident where 22 Assam Rifles personnel led by one Major Prasad Anand had physically assaulted four Sonsong villagers on the pretext of pursuing ‘extortionists’, the Naga People Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) has demanded that an enquiry into the episode be conducted to ensure that the culprits are booked as per the law without further delay.
A statement issued by the rights body said five personnel belonging to the 22 AR had physically assaulted four persons - namely Mothohrii s/o Daihrii, Nepuni s/o Lokho, Neli s/o Nepuni and Pfokreni s/o Nepuni of Songsong Village while the victims were working in their paddy field. The team of Assam Rifles in civvies appeared and began to torture them, it said, adding that they were brutally tortured despite producing their Identity Cards.
Villagers working in the nearby fields reportedly came together and verified that Nepuni is an innocent farmer and the rest are students, two of them his sons who are on vacation and helping their parents. However, they were also abused and threatened and, moreover, two women who went to intervene were verbally abused and forced to lie down on the ground, it was informed.
Besides the brutal assault, personal belongings of the victims including mobile phones and wallet are stated to have been taken away.
While applauding the undaunted spirit of the public and leaders of the area who came out strongly against the inhuman and brutal incident, the NPMHR said such incidents, which violate our constitutional given fundamental rights and freedom to live with dignity, puts into doubt the self-proclaimed slogan of the Assam Rifles ‘Friends of the Hill People’. “If they are friends, would the Assam Rifles even consider such actions?” it questioned.
Stating that the Naga people’s rights have once again been trampled even as the Ceasefire Agreement is in place, the NPMHR has demanded an enquiry into the episode by a competent authority and to ensure that the culprits are booked as per the law without further delay. Moreover, it has asked that adequate monetary and other compensation be given to the victims for their treatment and other requirements.
As we are all governed by universal laws, those individuals or groups acting in contravention of the laws should be dealt accordingly, it said and voiced expectations from the concerned authority to fulfil the above demands and restore the sanctity of law in the area.
Response to Jagdamba Mall’s ‘Nagaland of my Dream’ Shuyeve Kezo Nagalim con uk news
Gone through the articles of Mr. Jagdamba Mall in the local dailies in the past and the latest, “Nagaland of my Dream” which appeared in the Morung Express on 30th May 2009 proved beyond doubt that this learned self appointed critic and guardian of Naga culture, Politic and Moral affairs is a staunch supporter of saffron’s Hindutva Agendas. His extreme hatred at anything that is Christian and Western is crystal clear to one and all.
While agreeing with him and appreciating to some common issues stated in his article. There are certain points which are far from truth and outrageous. For instance, who is Mr. Jagdamba Mall to question or judge the vision of our great leaders especially Dr. A.Z. Phizowho was respected by all irrespective of nations, races, political parties and multiple factions here in Nagaland for His far sighted vision. The vision of our great leaders was clear, simple and not disputable.
Nagas are not Indians and vice versa. Where is the commodity of these two distinct groups of people except that both are humans’ races? Our looks, customs, religion, culture etc…. where is the similarity? Even Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation acknowledged this fact! It is irrelevant for a nation which claimed to be the world largest democracy and emergent super power to still forcibly occupy a weaker and smaller nation with its military and economic might in 21st century instead of helping restore and reconstruct the Naga country which was butchered and burnt to ashes several times under various inhuman draconian military acts and laws. Your study of insurgency in Nagaland is shallow, one sided and devoid of truth does not deems ‘through study’ otherwise you would have blamed your first P.M. Nehru for suppressing Nagas right from the beginning with its military power.
Who told you that Nagas were Hindus before they embraced Christianity? Do you mean non-Christian mean Hindu? Do you think a person should be either Christian or Hindu and nothing else?
Our oral history and folklores never tell our forefathers were Hindus. My late grandpa, one of the first Christian converts in my village once told me that the term ‘Hindu’ was unknown to them during their days. Prior to their conversion into Christianity they followed animism and worshipped unseen spirit but never worshipped animals, images, idols, etc. which your religion does. Out of your million Hindu Gods not a single name was even heard or known. Just because of a small group of people from Peren follow Heraka faith and others, practising indigenous faith, one can draw a conclusion that the entire Nagas were originally Hindus. Hence, where and when did your hindu religion suddenly emerged in our pre-Christian history? Who brought Hinduism here and when? Who were the first Hindus before Christianity arrived here? It is not disagreeing that Hindu religion existed in other parts of the country but it is not agreed that Nagas were Hindus prior to their conversion to Christianity.
In regards to human decency it is agreed and regrettable that all good moral values are fast vanishing in our society. Once deeply admired family institution where father is the head and respect figures, mother dutiful and faithful; children obedient and held elders in high respect is found wanting in our society.
So many social evils have crept into our society. Murder, rape, extortion, bribery, demand, factional killing, drugs addiction, immoralities, robbery etc. are our daily affairs. So many unknown dreaded diseases also increasing rapidly in our society. But for all these social evils is it fair to blame Christianity and western culture? I would not be surprised if you also a product of Christian and western run institution. Do this social evil does not exist in Hindu run states, particularly your state? No culture is perfect. Instead of maintaining your Hypoocratic self righteous image and pointing your accusing finger at Chriostian and western culture in Nagaland, you better look back at your Indian States, fold up your sleeves and fight social evils such as caste system, Dowry, child marriage, sati, un-touchbility, marrying child and daughter to dogs, snakes, monkeys, mountains, etc. superstitions, uncountable slum dwellers, homeless street beggars etc. this way you can contribute more to humanity and earn more respect. We shall look after ourselves though may be slow but promising.
As for the remaining points of your concern, thank but not thank for raising issues which are not at all new but which are already under the active effort of our people and government to bring out the best possible standard be it Naga customary law, tourism, Hornbill Festival etc & etc. Lastly, constructive criticism and suggestions are essential for a healthy growth of any society but suggestion in the forms of propagating ones hatred against a particular religion or culture with ulterior motive and lies is not welcomed.
Alas sir, you had a bad dream!
Shuyeve Kezo Kohima town
NSCN (IM) on April 24 Doyang incident Issued by MIP NSCN/GPRN
The NSCN/GPRN feels it important for all concerned to know the actual circumstances that led to the death of Mr. Tsenchithung Yanthan on 24th April 2009 at Doyang under Wokha district. It was very unfortunate that the incident would result in his death. It is unfair to speak ill of the dead but the fact should be make known so that misconceptions does not overtake us.
On the faithful day Mr. Tsenchithung was apprehended by the NSCN for his indulgence in anti national activities he was completely under the influence of drugs. On seeing his condition our cadres did not resort to any harsh treatment but gave some slaps in front of the public. But unfortunately, his condition did not become better and despite our best efforts he succumbed to the drug overdose.
After his death our cadres call the Lakhuti Village Chairman to explain about the deceased person character. The Chairman admitted that Mr.Tsenchithung and Mr. Chinithung they are habitual drug abusers and peddlers. Basing on the Village chairman’s statement our cadres apprehended Mr. Chinithung an ex-Khapur of NSCN-K. Mr. Chinithung also confessed that together they used to collect tax for the NSCN-K and extort money in the highway between Yikhum and Doyang with his .22 pistol. Mr. Chinithung was release after warning never to indulgence in such anti-social activities. The NSCN/GPRN expresses regret and sorrow for his death and it was not our intention to do any harm when he was apprehended.
Govt wants to restore peace and development in Assam (Agencies)
GUWAHATI, JUN 5: The Government of India is closely monitoring the security situation in Assam while making efforts to restore an environment of peace and development in the north eastern parts of the country. Concerned over the security situation in North Cachar Hills District, a Central team headed by the Special Secretary (Internal security) of the Ministry Home Affairs (MHA) recently visited here to review the situation.
It has been noticed that local militants have been targeting trains and railway staff engaged in railway gauge conversion and national highway construction projects.
The central team held meetings with Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and senior officials of the Assam Government including police and security forces engaged in counter-insurgency operations in the State.
The Chief Minister assured that all possible steps would be taken to curb insurgent activities.
"North Cachar Hills situation has to be improved. We will take all the necessary steps. Government of India has taken it up seriously. We are also taking it up very seriously. Yes, it may take a little time but definitely we will go in a big way. Immediately, more forces will be sent there," said Tarun Gogoi, the Chief Minister of Assam.
All officials suspected to have links with the militants are facing investigation.
The Special Task Force commandos recently arrested Mohit Hojai, the chief executive member (CEM) of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) in Assam, for his alleged links with the Dima Halam Daogah (Jewel) militant outfit. R.H. Khan, Joint Director of the Social Welfare Department, N.C. Hills, was also arrested.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been called in to handle the terror incidents in the district.
"Individuals do not matter because as the case relates to funding of a bank of the DHD (J) if am not mistaken. In that case, it definitely curtails to security, sovereignty and integrity of India. Because such cases are primarily dealt by the National Investigation agency and because of this it has been taken over for investigation and prosecution by National investigation Agency," said Bijan Mahajan, an advocate in Guwahati.
With a desire for peace in the NC hills, the Dimasa and Zeme Naga tribes have initiated several peace meetings in the district. A peace committee has also been formed.
"We are really worried about the worsening situation in the district. The Zeme Nagas and the Dimasa communities have been for long living together as brothers and sisters and as a family. However, suddenly there has been a misunderstanding and so many houses have been burnt and many have been killed. So we want peace back in our district. So both the Zemeis and the Dimasas have gathered at the cultural home to attend the peace meeting," said R. Queen Bey Jemi, the President of Zeme Naga Organisation, N C Hills.
"We hope that peace will come back to the NC hills. The government is also trying its best and all the different civil organisation in NC hills are also trying their best to bring back normalcy and work for peace in the district. So, we have also organised this peace meeting to review the situation and work for peace and mutual understanding," said Jayanad Dalagapu, Dimasa tribe, NC Hills.
Since March 18, there were 17 extremist attacks on Dimasa and Zeme Naga villages in the district, which left 24 people dead.
Altogether 1,658 people belonging to both Dimasa and Zeme Naga tribes are now taking shelter in six relief camps (GFX out) opened by the administration after their houses have been set ablaze by the militants.
The activities by the militant groups have not only brought various developmental works to a standstill, but have also forced total disruption of railway traffic in North Cachar Hills District.