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05/04/2010: "NSF serves ultimatum to Manipur Chief Minister morungexpress"

NSF serves ultimatum to Manipur Chief Minister morungexpress

Kohima, May 3 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has demanded the Manipur Government for immediate revocation of the 144 CrPC imposed upon the Naga inhabited areas within 24 hours starting 6:00 pm Monday to 6:00 pm Tuesday.
In an ultimatum addressed to the Chief Minister of Manipur, signed by NSF President Mutsikhoyo Yhobu and General Secretary O. Wati Jamir said in response to the clamping of the 144 CrPC by the Manipur Government in the Naga inhabited areas under the present political dominance of Manipur State, on the stance to bar an indigenous Naga from entering to his birth place is deemed as a direct challenge to the legitimate universal rights of humanity. The Manipur police personals stationed at the interstate boundary had acted beyond the patient tolerance of the Nagas. In this it could be pertinent to bring the situation prevailing here to your chair.
The imposition of the 144 CrPC, by Manipur Government had made lot of innocent Naga publics and travellers to experience harassments to the extreme of human tolerance since yesterday till this evening, they said, adding the larger volume and degrees of human rights violation perhaps is being inflicted in the dark.
Considering the matters, the ultimatum maintained that NSF is left with no option, but to demand for the immediate revocation of the 144 CrPC imposed upon the Naga inhabited area within 24 hours starting. It also warned that failing to do so, whatever untoward incidents - communal tensions and consequence that may befall, the NSF and the Nagas will not be held accountable.

Manipur Govt to thwart Muivah visit Kalyan Barooah Assam tribune
NEW DELHI, May 4 – Amidst escalating tension in Nagaland and Manipur over NSCN (I-M) leader, Th. Muivah’s ensuing visit to Ukhrul, the Centre on Tuesday announced extension of ceasefire with the rival Khaplang faction.
The ceasefire agreement with NSCN-K has been extended for a further period of one year with effect from April 28. It was decided at a meeting of officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs, with representatives of NSCN-K here on Monday, an official spokesman said.
Meanwhile, a clueless Centre has summoned Chief Minister of Manipur, O Ibobi Singh to Delhi besides rushing a senior Home Ministry official to Nagaland. The official is to visit Manipur as well, in an attempt to resolve the crisis.
The Chief Minister of Manipur is expected to land in the national capital on Wednesday and meet the Union Home Minister. The Centre has also conveyed to the Naga insurgent leaders that it needed some time to resolve the issue, sources said.
The escalating tension in the two States has landed the Centre in a tight spot, even as Union Home Minister, P Chidambaram held consultations with the MPs of Manipur. He sought their opinion on resolving the crisis.
Sources said that the Centre had a couple of weeks back advised the Chief Minister of Manipur to allow Muivah’s visit to go through. The Government of India is engaged in political negotiations with NSCN (I-M) and Muivah has been by and large allowed free movement.
However, the State Cabinet later passed a resolution opposing Muivah’s visit, triggering fresh tension.
Manipur Government has conveyed that there are cases pending against Muivah in the State and the ongoing ceasefire is not in force in Manipur.
The Centre has been rattled after the Naga outfit dragged it into the controversy. A communiqué from NSCN (I-M) describing the development as a ‘deliberate ploy’ of Manipur Government to prevent the interaction between its general secretary and the Naga people, slammed the Centre for its silence.
Questioning the “double standard” of the Government of India in back-tracking in its commitment to the itinerary of Muivah, the NSCN (I-M) said it was a volte face by the Centre.
The NSCN (I-M) said that “fence-sitting policy” of the Government of India would lead to “uncontainable situation” and that in such eventuality the outfit should not be held responsible.
Ahead of Naga leader's visit, preventive security in Manipur From ANI Copyright Asian News International/DailyIndia.com
Senapati (Manipur), May 4: Security measures have been tightened to prevent Thuingaleng Muivah, General Secretary of National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN), from entering Manipur.

Muivah had proposed to visit his birthplace at Somdal village in Ukhrul district between May 3 and 10.

He is also scheduled to attend a public reception May 8 at Ukhrul district headquarters.onsidering these proposed programmes, the Manipur government has taken preventive security steps by deploying two large contingents of the state police.

They have set up barricades at Mao gate in Senapati district on the Manipur-Nagaland border, around 120 kilometres away from Imphal.

Similar barricades have also been set up near Jessami in Ukhrul district to prevent the leader from crossing into Manipur's territory.

Restriction under Section 144 of CrPC has also been clamped in Senapati district in addition to deployment of additional forces.

The state's Home Ministry's instructions came after it was apprised by the state government about the prevailing law and order situation as well as the possible social upheaval likely to be caused by Muivah's visit to Manipur. Locals in Manipur however feel that Muivah is a very popular leader and government is being a bit too critical about his visit.

"I should say that the state government is a little too critical regarding this. In the sense because Muivah, he is a political leader, no doubt about it. But if we have to say from a ordinary person, Muivah is somebody looked up and he is an already an international figure," said Chiihujio, a local.

Manipur Police personnel have started manning the Mao gate very carefully since Sunday evening and police commandos are deployed at the gate.

PRESS RELEASE
Dated: Tahamzam, May 2, 2010


A war like situation has been created by the deployment of Manipur state armed forces at several places in Senapati and Ukhrul District following the Cabinet decision of the Govt. of Manipur to ban the entry of Mr. Th. Muivah, Hon’ble Ato Kilonser, GPRN to Naga Areas under the administration of Manipur. The dismantling of welcome gates erected by the Naga villages to welcome the visit of Mr. Th. Muivah by the Manipur State Armed Forces at Mao Gate and other places is a blatant insult to the Naga ethos and culture. The climate of fear and insecurity created by the sudden presence of more than 600 personnel of the State forces, construction of bunkers, positioning of armoured cars, water cannons, etc. is clearly to prevent the Naga villagers from welcoming their leader and expressing their solidarity and to thereby suppress the voice of the people. The State Government of Manipur therefore has trampled upon the rights of the people whom they claim to represent as a Government in order to perpetuate its policy of colonization on the Nagas. The insensitivity of the State Government has left the Naga people unrepresented.

The irresponsible act of the State Government is a deliberate attempt to sabotage the dawning peace in the region, when as a Government of the people; it should have been at the forefront to facilitate the resolutions of conflicts and amicable settlements.

In view of the above, the United Naga Council and the Naga Frontal Organisations in its emergency meeting held at Tahamzam on the evening of 2nd April, 2010 today strongly condemns the action of the state government. We are convinced that the State Government is consciously trying to demonstrate its sphere of influence with the threat of force. Any untoward consequence of such an adventurism would therefore be deemed to be the sole responsibility of the State Govt. of Manipur.

KUKNALIM


Sd/- Sd/-
(GRACE T. SHATSANG) (SAMSON REMEI)
President, Naga Women’s Union, Manipur. President, United Naga Council.


Sd/- Sd/-
(ADANI DAVID MAO) (PHAMHRING SENGUL)
President, All Naga Students’ Assn. Manipur. Convenor, Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights

No objection, if it has no hidden agenda of Naga integration: UCM Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, April 30 2010: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) today said that the committee has no objection to the homecoming of Thuingaileng Muivah, general secretary of NSCN(MI) but they will stand against any move to break the territorial integrity during his visit.
President of the UCM, Yumnamcha Dilipkumar speaking to reporters at a press conference held at its office today observed that if the visit of Muivah is with the decision of returning to normal life, UCM will not give any obstruction but they are examining whether there is hidden agenda on his visit.
If Muivah spews venoms to the people on Naga integration which is not yet agreed by the GOI during his visit, UCM will not leave no stone unturned to fight against it, he said revealing that in the more than 70 rounds of talks since 1997 with Government of India, NSCN (IM) had put up the integration of Naga inhabitant areas to make greater Nagaland several times. Even though ceasefire between government force and NSCN(IM) is not official in force in Manipur, it is in force unofficially.
It has been very clear when state and central government did nothing when NSCN (IM) leaders visited Manipur, he said. The proposed visit of Muivah on May 8 is the fall out of the latest round of talks between GOI and NSCN (IM) held on February 28 last, he revealed adding that GOI had given the permission in the talk. Manipur government will certainly have the knowledge the reason behind the home visit of Muivah.
It is beyond believed that state government is committed to safeguard the territorial integrity of the state as this government had instead of praising the IRB personnel when they killed 11 NSCN(IM) cadres with the seizure of many weapons. Government had returned the weapons to the outfit, he said.
When a leader of IM was arrested by the police at IT road under Tamenglong district, instead of detaining him, government released him with due respect. When Chief Minister, was greeted with a banner "Welcome to South Nagaland" O Ibobi himself expressed that they can whatever they want under democratic government.
At the latest instant, names of the outfit were found script in the festival stone unveiled by cabinet ministers in the recent pass, he recalled while expressing less confidence with the state government towards protecting the territorial integrity of the state.
There is no objection from the people of the state in the peace talks between NSCN (IM) and GOI if there is no threat to the territorial integrity of the state.
GOI and state government should remembered the incident of the great June Uprising in which many sacrificed their live and left injure to several others.
If any banner or slogans related with the slicing of the territorial boundary of Manipur happened to displayed or shout, there may arose another uprising, more severe than the earlier, Dilipkumar warned appealing the government to consider twice and announce a clear stand of the government with regard to Muivah's visit.
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=2..010510.may10
Government says no to Muivah's Manipur visit Seven Naga MLAs welcome proposed visit of Muivah Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal,: The secular Progressive Front (SPF) Government of Manipur is set to put a spoke in the plan of the NSCN-IM to send its General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah to visit his native place–Ukhrul district of Manipur.
The State Cabinet has taken a decision not to allow Th Muivah to come to Manipur. Announcing this, Government Spokesperson and Minister of IFCD and YAS, N Biren told media persons today that there are possibilities of disturbances threatening peaceful coexistence of the communities if the NSCN-IM leader comes to Manipur. Moreover, the ceasefire between the Government of India and the NSCN-IM does not cover Manipur. Therefore, the Government took a decision to ban Muivah from coming to Manipur, the Spokesperson said.
He further informed that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had informed the Director General of Police, Manipur Y Joykumar that NSCN-IM leader Th Muivah will come to Manipur on May 3 and leave the state on May 10.The MHA had asked the DGP Manipur to arrange security for Muivah's visit.
The MHA in a letter had informed that apart from his native place in Ukhrul district, Muivah will also visit Naga inhabited places in Senapati, Tamenglong and Chandel districts. Programmes of public meetings were also sent. Minister Biren said, these are likely to cause communal disturbances in the state.
He informed the media-persons that the decision of the State Cabinet has been faxed to the Union Home Minister, P Chidambaram today. Besides, DGP Manipur has also informed the MHA that following the decision of the State Government, security arrangement could not be made.
The Government has also requested the Centre not to make Muivah come to Manipur forcibly, Minister Biren said. He also said that the people of Manipur views the issues relating to NSCN-IM very seriously.
The Government will take all necessary measures not to repeat the kind of incident that happened on June 18 in 2001 when the ceasefire between the Government of India and the NSCN-IM was extended without territorial limits, in which 18 people were killed.
The Cabinet meeting held at 3 pm at the conference hall of the Chief Minister's secretariat, which was chaired by Chief Minister O Ibobi, also discussed the indefinite economic blockade launched by All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM) in protest against the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Council Act, 1971 (3rd Amendment, 2008).
Regarding the blockade, Spokesperson and Minister Biren said that the people of Manipur are facing a lot of hardships due to the prolonged economic blockade. The Government has resolved to face the blockade appropriately. Steps would be taken to deploy Army, Para Military Forces and State Forces to control the blockade supporters, the Spokesperson informed.
He said, the State Cabinet meeting also deliberated on the ultimatum given by RPF to the Non-Manipuris to go back before May 31. The State Government would take all necessary measures to protect the Non-Manipuris. For this, the DGP has been given instructions to make special security arrangements, Minister Biren said.
The ongoing over three-month long ceasework strike of the State Govenment employees demanding implementation of the recommendation of the Sixth Pay Commission in toto was also discussed at the State Cabinet meeting today.
The meeting noted the unusual situation prevailing in the State due to the ceasework strike, The Minister informed. With a view to arriving at a solution, the Cabinet Sub-Committee has been empowered to negotiate further with the striking employees. Unless a solution could be arrived at, the State Cabinet discussed taking stern action against the employees.
Meanwhile, seven Naga Independent MLAs belonging to the People's Democratic Alliance (PDA) have resolved to welcome the proposed visit of NSCN-IM leader Th Muivah to Manipur.
MLA of Phungyar A/C, Wungnaoshang Keishing, who is taking an important role in PDA, told this newspaper today that seven Naga MLAs are ready to welcome Muivah when he comes to his native place with the permission of the Government of India. Praising Muivah highly, the MLA further said that their position as MLAs in Manipur Assembly is like the fish in the pond.
But Muivah is like a fish in the sea.
The PDA recognises the role he is taking for the Nagas.
The decision to welcome him was taken at a meeting attended by Naga MLAs, Dr Khasim Ruivah, Danny Shaiza, Wungnaosang Keishing, Morung Makunga, M Thorii, K Raina and Awangbou Newmai, he said.
NNC has the final say on war and peace”: Adino Phizo Asian Tribune By Oken Jeet Sandham - Exclusive interview with Adino Phizo
Kohima, 05 May, President of the Naga National Council (NNC) Adino Phizo categorically stated that there could be no meaningful dialogue between the two nations until the “Government of India (GOI) rescinds the 1972 ‘illegal’ badge served on the Naga National Council (NNC) and the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN).”
Replying to an exclusive interview through email from her London residence to Oken Jeet Sandham, NEPS, the NNC supremo however pointed out that she was yet to see the seriousness of the GOI in “seeking an honorable solution to the protracted conflict” between the two nations.
Asked her comments on Indian Prime Minister (PM) Dr Manmohan Singh’s desire to solve Naga issue during his tenure and also Union Home Secretary GK Pillai’s statement that Naga issue would find solution in 12 to 24 months, Adino said he (Dr Manmohan Singh) was said to be “sincere and a man of principle.” “I have no doubt the Government of India (GoI) at some time would wake up and evaluate India's six decades disastrous external foray into Nagaland in own (GoI) interest,” she asserted adding, “The burning issue is the Indian army naked aggression against Nagaland in 1954 and ever since the unremitting Indian occupation army militarized tyranny in Nagaland.”
On Nagaland Chief Minister Neipiu Rio’s role in Naga issue, Adino said “imposed puppet state government in Nagaland is symptomatic of Indian government hypocrisy.” “Neiphiu Rio happens to be the present puppet chief minister,” she said. “No Naga is a stranger to one another; on social level we have a polite tradition.”
She said, “He (Rio) and his colleagues talk much about playing a constructive role as facilitators to bring ‘an honorable solution’ to the protracted conflict with India but I am yet to see any action to that effect.” On NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Mauivah’s recent talks with PM and Union Home Minister P Chidambaram, the NNC President said, “In the affairs of Nagaland, Th Muivah is a nonentity. He is from Ukhrul district, in Manipur state, India and has no political root in Nagaland.”
She further disclosed that only after the Cease-fire Agreement in 1964, NNC and FGN advanced in dispensing with hitherto Inner Line Permit (ILP) mandatory for Naga family in Naga inhabited areas (NIA) to enter Nagaland. “While the national status of NIA is yet to be settled, it does not help that a section of Naga people could clearly be seen muddle along politicizing the issue before all round consensus and callously inflame age-old friendship with neighboring people,” she stated.
The daughter of the legendary Naga freedom fighter and father of Naga Nation AZ Phizo, Adino alleged that the NSCN (IM) began its lies and hatred campaign since 1979/80 to subvert the Yehzabo (Constitution) of Nagaland. Their acts had been a hideous distraction but in no way deflected the unshakable resolve of NNC and FGN on Naga sovereignty, she said adding, “Over the past three decades the people of Nagaland have endured extreme violence at the hands of the outfit, generally call the tormentors.”
She also claimed that without the patronage of GoI, the NSCN (IM) wouldn't dare making outrageous claims against NNC and FGN, let alone venture out. “The fact that it requires ‘Designated Camps’ nearby Indian occupation army camps, ‘Z+Security’, Indian Passports, and ‘IDs’ from its supposed to be enemy to go about needs no further comment,” she stated. “It just cannot be serious that GoI resorted to dallying with a stage-managed non-state vassal supplicant calling itself ‘Nagalim’, currently devoid of a domain and history.”
But while asking her comments on Muivah’s remarks made while addressing 30th Naga Republic Day at their Camp Hebron that they stand on the foundation and decision of erstwhile Naga National Council (NNC) leaders namely AZ Phizo, founder of NNC, Kughato Sukhai, former Ato Kilonser of NNC, Ikongmeren Ao, T Sakhrie and Khodao Yanthan and they were today because of them, Adino said she had documentary evidence of the “NSCN (IM) manifesto; various vacuous drivel statements; atrocity report: crimes against the Naga people and others, and Proposed basis for discussion to achieve a comprehensive solution to the Naga issue.”
She pointed out that far from paying normal respect, and appreciation of the sacrifices of NNC and FGN leaders for Naga nation, he (Muivah) and his henchmen went to great length to fabricate Nagaland history. “Whatever he said of late, I don't think a right-minded Naga will believe him,” she added.
Adino also expressed that the NNC kept abreast development concerning Nagaland and on the recent Delhi orchestrated "peace process" with a non-state actor. She further stated they saw no likely impact on Nagaland. “The 'secret' cosmetic changes demanded by the so-called NSCN (IM) within Art 371 A (13th Amendment Act 1962) of the Indian Constitution in return for a symbiotic ‘competencies’ and ‘sovereign’ relation within Indian Union should be made public,” she urged.
Replying to GOI’s statement that final solution to Naga issue would come about after holding talks with the entire Naga underground groups, Adino made it clear that as a nation, Nagaland had a democratically elected “Constitutional Government, namely Federal Government of Nagaland.” In addition, India imposed a puppet state government and also patronize the NSCN to perpetrate “state-sponsored terrorism in Nagaland,” she alleged.
“In all probability, the GoI will stick to protocol in the case of other nations and refrain from uttering such an absurd and offensives drivel,” she asserted. “It will not help the GoI to insult the intelligence of Naga people.”
Nagaland and India never ever shared a common history. Before the Union of India came into existence in 1947, the Naga representatives led by A Z Phizo had a series of meetings with emerging leaders of India, in Assam and India, to establish good understanding between the two peoples, particularly, on future bilateral relations. The Indian leaders, Mahatma Gandhi, Gopinath Bordoloi, M A Jinnah, Rajagopalachari, etc with no exception, respected the desire of Naga people to stay a sovereign country.
As planned, the Naga representatives declared to the world that Nagaland will stay independent on 14 August, 1947, a day ahead of Union of India declaration of independence, she narrated.
Reacting to GOI’s statement to grant more autonomy to resolve the Naga issue, the NNC Chief said, “In recognition of Naga sovereignty, over the years the Indian leaders invited NNC: to join the Union of India, to be incorporated in the Constitution of India, offered ‘special status within India’, blank cheque for development of Nagaland, President of India, Ambassador to any named country and so on; it may sound unwise to have refused such seemingly generous proposals, but India has no monopoly on sovereignty over another nation.” “(It is)
Not because of political demand or a dispute that led the Indian army in a massive show of strength invaded Nagaland in 1954. NNC stand on relation with India is, and always has been, a peaceful co-existence base on mutual respects,” she added.
Reacting to Center’s interlocutor RS pandey’s “concept of shared sovereignty” to resolve Naga issue, Adino said she saw “no evidence” on his idea of "shared sovereignty" that India was willing to enter into with a neighboring country. “He better confine his fantasy to himself and stick to a role good at, if any,” she suggested.
Stating that Sovereignty was the pivotal attribute of a nation-state, Adino said from the outset, the Father of Naga nation was unequivocal on Naga sovereignty.
The fundamental of it was the right of Nagaland to maintain its own territorial integrity and internal system and on relation with other nations, a non-interference in the internal affairs of another nation, she explained.
Reiterating that the NNC was not a political party, the NNC President stated it was the embodiment of Naga body politic with historical mooring in Naga democratic tradition. By virtue of the historic 16 May 1951 universal Naga consensus to opt for a common Naga identity and affirmation of heretofore Nagaland declaration to stay independent on 14 August 1947, immutably entrusted with NNC, “no Naga can deny NNC mandate. As the keeper of the soul of Naga nation, NNC has the final say on war and peace,” she said.
Nagaland was a peaceful, self-sufficient and hospitable country before Indian invasion in 1954. “Is it not ironic that after six decades of unremitting Indian occupation army militarised tyranny in Nagaland, Indian politicians and officials constantly lecture peace to Naga people?” she questioned.
- Asian Tribune -
UCM smells rat in Muivah's visit The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 30 2010: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) has affirmed that it would take befitting action in case NSCN (IM) leader Th Muivah's visit to manipur is intended on creating ethnic divisions and disintegrate the State.
The conglomerate organisation also demanded that State Government measure/evaluate intention of Muivah's visit and to declare its (Government) position to the general public without delay.
Speaking to newspersons at its office in Lamphelpat today, UCM president Yumnamcha Dilipkumar said if Muivah's proposed visit to his place of origin is any indication of his willingness to return to normal life, the UCM heartily welcomes the rebel leader's homecoming. however, if the visit has any ulterior motive such as driving a wedge between the people of different communities settled in Manipur for ages, the agenda would be foiled at any cost as such an intention tantamounts to adding salt to wounds, he maintained.
Expressing that Th Muivah has every right to visit or stay in any part of Nagaland State, the UCM functionary stated that if the visit is to further the rebel outfit's agenda to extend ceasefire coverage upto manipur under the vision of uniting Naga inhabited areas of Manipur under a single administrative unit, then there is no question of remaining as a silent spectator.
He also construed that leader of an armed group announcing his proposed visit to Manipur, which is beyond the jurisdiction of the ceasefire agreement, is a clear indication that Government of India had given its approval. Noting that over 70 rounds of talks were held between leaders of the rebel group and the Centre since 1997, Dilipkumar expressed that at many occasions during the peace parleys people of Manipur had been besieged with uncertainty due to threat posed to its territorial integrity.
Contending that State Government's inaction in spite of Th Muivah's announcement that he would visit his Ukhrul hometown on May 8 has raised a serious question of whether there is a tacit understanding regarding extension of ceasefire to Manipur, he also maintained that past incidents had also sparked suspicion that an unofficial ceasefire is being observed within the boundary of Manipur.
Citing an example that indicated unofficial extension of ceasefire to Manipur, Dilipkumar referred to the incident of IRB personnel gunning down 11 NSCN (IM) cadres and seizing their weapons at Pallel area for which Commandant of the IRB unit rusticated through 'forced retirement' rather than showered with accolades.

Moreover, the fact that many top leaders of the rebel outfit apprehended from IT road were escorted and release at Mao Gate inspite of being briefly detained at Imphal police headquarters is another vivid indication of the State Government's weakness and approval to the ceasefire extension, the UCM president pointed.

He also recounted inaction by the State authorities against those individuals whose had the audacity to put up a banner inscribed 'welcome to south nagaland' when the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh visited Senapati district headquarters for a congress party conference some year back.
He also mentioned confrontation between NSCN (IM) cadres and Assam Rifles troops at an Ukhrul district area and a team of Ministers unveiling a memorial stone which had the name of a kilonser of the outfit as recent examples of the State Government's incompatibility and failure to understand sentiment of the people.

Reminding that several people laid down their lives for the sake of Manipur's territorial and emotional integrity, the UCM leader cautioned that spontaneous uprising of the people as was witnessed in the recent past could not be ruled out in the near future.
Naga MLAs welcome
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, Independent Naga MLAs have welcomed the proposed visit of NSCN-IM supremo Thuingaleng Muivah to Manipur. Muivah is scheduled to visit his birth place Somdal, in Ukhrul district on May 8 .

Announcing this while talking to mediapersons after a joint meeting of the Independent Naga MLAs here today, MLA of Phungyar AC Wungnaoshang Keishing informed that the meeting also seriously deliberated on the ultimatum given to the Naga MLAs to tender their resignations over the issue of ADC election.

Keishing also drew the attention of the Government on the possibility of deferring the ADC election for sometime in the interest of the people in the hill districts and their aspirations.

Meanwhile, Newmai News Network has informed that Muivah's itenary in Manipur will not cover Tamenglong and Chandel, as published earlier. The NSCN (IM) leader is expected to address a public meeting at the Tangkhul Naga Long ground on May 8 .
State Govt set to nip Muivah's proposed visit in the bud
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 30 2010: Observing that the proposed visit of NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah to his birthplace Somdal in Ukhrul district and other Naga inhabited areas of Manipur to hold consultative meetings may cause social unrest, the State Cabinet, which met today has recommended to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister not to allow the visit.
An emergency meeting of the State Cabinet was convened by Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh soon after he arrived from New Delhi today afternoon and after discussing the issue minutely categorically decided that Muivah should not be allowed to visit Manipur and accordingly, recommendations of the State Cabinet to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister have been sent, informed Government spokesperson and Sports Minister N Biren while talking to media after the Cabinet meeting at his official residence here.
The Cabinet meeting thoroughly discussed the proposed visit of NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah from May 3 to 10 amid the imposition of economic blockade by those who are opposed to the ADC election, the UG ultimatum to non-Manipuris and the cease work strike of the Government employees. In this given scenario, the Cabinet felt that the visit of Muivah to Somdal and other parts of Manipur may aggravate the situation. So, the Cabinet decided that he should not be allowed to come to Manipur. Accordingly, the Cabinet's decision has been faxed to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister.

Reiterating that the cease fire agreement signed between the NSCN-IM and the Government is India is limited only within the State of Nagaland and Manipur is out of its jurisdiction, the Government spokesperson also recalled the mass uprising of June 18 in 2001 when the ceasefire was extended to Manipur. There is also the opposition to the demand for integration of all Naga inhabited areas under one administrative unit, he added. Therefore, in consideration of the possible impact it may create on the existing cordial relationship among the people, the Cabinet unanimously decided to object the proposed visit of Muivah, Biren said.
Disclosing that the Union Home Ministry has despatched a tour programme of Muivah to the DGP, the spokesperson informed that the DGP has also given his response to the Home Ministry stating clearly that no escort would be arranged and it would create social unrest.
Biren further informed that today's Cabinet meeting also discussed the ongoing cease work strike of the employees and later on entrusted the Ministerial Team (Cabinet Sub-Committee) led by Revenue Minister to work out the resources of the State. Meanwhile, when The Sangai Express contacted, chairman of the Cease-fire Monitoring Group Retired Lt Gen Mandatta, he said that information about the proposed visit of Muivah to Manipur has been received. However, as his responsibility is confined to monitoring the cease fire within Nagaland only, he said it would not be appropriate for him to give any comment on the issue.
It may be recalled here that 13 individuals including AK Lungalung, a leader of NSCN-IM were arrested by the police from Turibari in Kangpokpi on October 6, 2003.But all of them were released by the Govt the following day.
To, Dated: Tahamzam (Senapati), May 3, 2010
The Hon’ble Prime Minister
Govt. of India, New Delhi.

Subject: Unprovoked War-like situation created by the state Government of Manipur in Naga Areas in the guise of enforcement of ban on entry of Mr. Th. Muivah, Ato Kilonser to visit his native village.
Respected Sir,

The United Naga Council, the apex organization of the Nagas under the administration of Manipur state has been happily awaiting the visit of Mr. Th. Muivah, Hon’ble Ato Kilonser, GPRN and Peace Negotiator of the Naga people to his native village Somdal, Ukhrul, Tahamzam (Senapati) and other places during the scheduled National Peace Tour. The Naga People looks forward with great fervor to the opportunity to warmly receive the Chief Negotiator of the Nagas in the Indo-Naga peace talks and to honor him for his tremendous contribution towards international Peace in the South East Asian Region.

However, following the quixotic cabinet decision of the state government of Manipur to ban the entry of Mr. Th. Muivah, a war like situation has been created at Mao/Tadubi/Maram, Somdal, Ukhrul, Senapati, Jessami and several vulnerable places from the afternoon of the previous day, i.e. 2nd May, 2010 with the sudden deployment of thousands of its state armed forces in civilian areas, construction of bunkers, positioning of armoured cars, water cannons, etc. The insensitivity of dismantling of the traditional welcome gates erected by the Naga villages to welcome Mr. Th. Muivah on the same evening by the state armed forces at Mao Gate is an insult to the Naga tradition and culture and speaks eloquently of the Manipur State Government’s disregard for the people they claim to represent. We are convinced that the Manipur State Government is making a deliberate attempt to demonstrate its sphere of influence with the threat of force and to the extend of imposing indefinite curfew & U/S CrPC 144 at Ukhrul, Mao/Tadubi, Senapati and along NH 39 since 05:00 pm May 2, 2010 compelling all educational institutions to be closed indefinitely.

The Naga people have been looking forward to the long awaited visit of Mr Th. Muivah, which will promote peace at the grass roots, create better understanding and relationship with the different communities. But the irresponsible act of the State Government to sabotage the dawning peace in the region now stands in stark contrast to the role of a Government of the people that facilitates and promotes the resolutions of conflicts and honourable settlements.

We humbly submit the above mentioned facts with urgency for your kind information with the request to kindly intervene in the matter to enable his scheduled visit peacefully and to also reiterate the support and aspiration of the Nagas for peace as a means to bringing a negotiated settlement through to the Indo-Naga Peace Talk.


(GRACE T. SHATSANG) (SAMSON REMEI)
President, Naga Women’s Union, Manipur. President, United Naga Council.


(ADANI DAVID MAO) (PHAMHRING SENGUL)
President, All Naga Students’ Assn. Manipur. Convenor, Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights
Copy to:
1. The Hon’ble Union Minister of Home, New Delhi for kind information.
2. The Hon’ble Union Minister, Defense, New Delhi for kind information
3. The Hon’ble Chairperson, U P A, New Delhi for kind information.
4. The Governor, Manipur, Imphal for kind information.
5. The Home Secretary, Govt. of India, New Delhi, for kind information.
6. The President, Naga Hoho/Naga Mother’s Assn,/ Tribal Hohos Kohima for kind information.
7. The President, Naga Students’ Federation, Kohima for kind information
8. The Secretary General, NPMHR, Kohima for kind information.

NSCN-IM furious at Manipur govt for bar on Muivah visit The Imphal Free Press

Senapati, May 3: The NSCN-IM has questioned the Government of India over the former`s flip-flop stand in connection with the visit of the outfit`s general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah to his birth place, Ukhrul district. in Manipur.

"The National Socialist council of Nagalim in its joint meeting of the Cabinet and Steering Committee has taken serious note of the decision taken by the Manipur State Government Cabinet to prevent the visit of our General Secretary, Th. Muivah, to his birth place in Ukhrul. We consider this move as an affront to the inherent rights of the Nagas. The decision of the State Cabinet is deemed to be calculated and defy the initiative of the Government of India (GOI) and the NSCN to resolve the more than six decades of Indo-Naga conflict through peaceful political negotiation," the statement of the Naga outfit said.

The NSCN-IM says that it considers the Manipur State Cabinet decision opposing the visit of the outfit`s general secretary as anti-peace and suppression of the people’s rights. "The deliberate ploy of the Manipur State Government to prevent the interaction with the Naga people is a move to disrupt the hard earned peace. The divisive steps are pure and simple; a sign of naked chauvinism that does not respect the human rights of all including the Naga peoples’," it terms.

The NSCN-IM further says that it seriously questions the double standard of the government of India on back-tracking its commitment to the itinerary of our general secretary (Thuingaleng Muivah). We see the volt face of the government of India and its underhand backing of the state security forces as criminal and treacherous. Giving free rein to the forces trying to disrupt the Indo - Naga peace process clearly exposes the dubious role of the GOI. The fence-sitting policy of the GOI will lead to uncontainable situation and in such eventuality the NSCN will not be held responsible. We also will not remain a silent spectator if the life and existence of our people are endangered. The NSCN therefore urge the GOI to control the situation before it goes out of hand," the Naga outfit said, while adding, "We will negotiate on the foundation based on our historical rights. We have come this far respecting the history and human rights of other peoples’ but the visible forces of antagonism trying to undermine our rights and the stratagem to destabilize the peace – building process cannot be ignored anymore. We believe that the time is ripe to usher peace in the region. We are committed in our search for peace, however, under such state of affairs wherein peace is threatened by forces antagonistic to peaceful and honourable political solution the NSCN will be forced to take alternative measures to defend our commitment to peace."

The NSCN-IM then stated then said, "Thirteen years have passed after the declaration of cease-fire and in the process the GOI has officially recognized the “Unique history and situation of the Nagas”. It was also agreed that there will be cease-fire wherever there is fighting. We have come closer through such steps taken in the spirit of mutual respect and it is our earnest desire that the political peace process must be taken toward its logical conclusion by securing a final and permanent political settlement. However, our coming closer for the sake of political settlement and lasting peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness".

The NSCN-IM also said that "the military way" solution taken by the Manipur Government under the pretext of “Law and order” is highly questionable and the NSCN judge this approach a challenge to our very existence as peoples. The illogical approach of the Manipur government contradicting the very basis of the cease-fire agreements between the GOI and the NSCN-IM will seriously jeopardized the ongoing peace process.

"In view of extreme provocation from the Manipur state Government, the NSCN and the Naga people have been forced to accept the challenge offered by the communal forces that threatens our very existence. In the absence of mutual respect we have to go our own way and to the last we will stand to protect our people, land and historical rights. Be assured that we will leave no stone unturned to uphold these commitments. We however hope that before it is too late reason will prevail with our Meitei neighbours," said the NSCN-IM statement.

Protests organised against bar on Muivah visit Newmai News
SENAPATI, May 3 – People in Senapati and Ukhrul districts today protested against the Manipur Cabinet decision to bar NSCN-IM leader from entering Manipur.
Tear gas shells were reportedly used by the security forces personnel as the people defied the 144 CrPC clamped since last evening.
The people became quite tense after the security forces personnel destroyed the ‘welcome banner’ for Th Muivah at Mao Gate in the Manipur-Nagaland border yesterday.
In Senapati, large numbers of security forces personnel were seen while the people carried out sit-in-protest in different places. Public meetings were still going on in different places at Ukhrul and Senapati districts.
The people in Senapati district organised a candle light rally last night in protest against the State Cabinet decision.
Large number of security forces personnel have been posted at the Nagaland-Manipur border to thwart any move of Thuingaleng Muivah to enter Manipur.