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05/10/2010: "Muivah still firm on Manipur visit"


May 10 2010
The opposition to my visit by the Meiteis came as a surprise...the visit is for peace, to meet family and friends and not to disturb anyone...We will not claim anything which belongs to the Meiteis, let them have theirs, we will only have what is rightfully ours.
NSCN General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah
NSCN leader gets Purno support
Muivah still firm on Manipur visit
Kohima/IMPHAL: May 10, 2010 NSCN (I-M) on Sunday condemned the Manipur government's decision to debar the entry of its general secretary Thuigaleng Muivah into the state and said he would certainly complete his journey. "We have undertaken this journey of peace...respecting the wishes of the Naga people, but it is unfortunate that the Manipur government has opposed the visit of Muivah... and we condemn...the irrationality of the state government," NSCN (I-M) said in a press statement. Muivah, camping at Viswema village near Nagaland-Manipur border since May 5, would definitely visit his native village Somdal in Ukhrul district and other Naga-inhabited areas in Manipur, it said.
Meanwhile, former Lok Sabha Speaker and NCP stalwart Purno A Sangma has supported Th Muivah’s decision to visit Manipur saying that in his personal opinion, ‘Muivah has the right to visit his birth place since peace talks are on between the centre and the NSCN-IM’. With the demand for imposition of President's Rule in Manipur gaining momentum, Sangma on Sunday suggested that an all-party delegation should visit the state to ascertain the ground situation. "An all-party team should visit Manipur to take stock of the ground situation and later should submit their findings to the centre for action," Sangma said.
Protests continue, Govt. offices burnt down
Over 16 Manipur government offices have been burnt down in different hill districts of Manipur during the last four days including the latest two-Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) offices in Ukhrul district of Manipur on Saturday night, according to reliable sources. The SDO offices of Chingai and Kamjong under Ukhrul district were set on fire by unknown persons on Saturday night, added the sources. On May 7, offices of ZEO, forest and agriculture at Ukhrul, besides offices of Kasom Khullen SDO and forest beat of the same sub-division were torched by unknown persons.
In Chandel district, offices of agriculture, horticulture, forest beat, divisional forest and newly constructed police were set on fire on May 7. The Tamenglong district agriculture office was also burnt down.
Meanwhile, sit-in-protests and rallies were carried out at various places in and around Imphal by different women folk organizations on Sunday against the proposed visit of Muivah and supported the Manipur cabinet’s decision to bar the NSCN-IM leader from entering Manipur. Nupilup, a women organization carried out a protest rally and later staged a sit-in-protest at Leima bazaar under Imphal East district while women folk also staged sit-in-protests at Sagolband, Uripok and Thangmeiband under Imphal West district against the visit of the NSCN leader in the state. (Agencies)
http://www.theshillongtimes.com/

Cry for Naga unity grows louder
Hoho dubs border artificial

OUR CORRESPONDENT
Kohima, May 9: The Naga Hoho, the apex Naga organisation, in an emergency meeting last night has “derecognised” boundaries drawn between Nagaland and Manipur. The move came after Manipur chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh refused to allow general secretary of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), Thuingaleng Muivah, to visit his native village Somdal in Ukhrul district. Though Muivah deferred his visit, his supporters clashed with security at Mao Gate, resulting in the death of two students on May 6. “Henceforth, we derecognise any artificial boundary drawn across our ancestral lands in the present Manipur state,” the Hoho said.
It said Nagas’ land has been dissected through colonial designs. It declared that Nagas are one nation and will stand together as a people and that any attack on the Naga people will be considered as an attack on “our nation”.
The Hoho also strongly warned the Manipur government and a particular community inhabiting Manipur valley that Nagas would react if the Naga people were harmed in that state. “Any harm done to our citizens presently held hostage in the Imphal valley will be countered by befitting actions,” the Naga apex body said. Stating that the Manipur government has waged a war against the Naga people, the Hoho reiterated its support Nagas’ historical rights. “We consider the recent killings of our students, injury to hundreds of our innocent citizens and looting and destruction of proper- ties at villages in Mao Naga area by the Manipur government as an open declaration of war against the Nagas,” the Hoho said. The Manipur government today relaxed the curfew in Mao area during the day, adds PTI.
This evening, however, unidentified miscreants assaulted members of the Naga Hoho in Kohima, though the motive is unclear. The police are yet to confirm the details of the incident but a source said armed miscreants assaulted Chuba Ozukum, general secretary of Naga Hoho, G. Vashum, joint secretary of the Hoho, and Nepuni Piku, a member of Naga people’s movement for human rights, at Hotel Grandeur in the heart of Kohima town. They were severely beaten up with gun butts and were admitted to Naga Hospital. The miscreants also allegedly took away laptops, mobiles and cash from them. Ozukum and Vashum are in ICU, while Piku was released after first aid.
The overseas Naga Association has expressed shock at the turn of events in Nagaland and Manipur, which prevented Muivah from entering Manipur. The association also expressed solidarity with the Naga people in Manipur.
“This is a case of an unconscionable abuse of power by the Okram Ibobi Singh government which has already led to deadly consequences and whose effects will sadly be long lasting,” Visier Sanyu, president, and Paul Pimomo, secretary general of the association, said. They said the Naga and Meitei communities have a complicated history and the role of the government in both states would be to act in ways that would promote goodwill and peace. They said the Manipur government has provoked anger among the Nagas and egged on the Meitei community, thereby inflaming the passions of the two people whose lives are unavoidably interdependent. The Nagaland Baptist Church Council has appealed to everyone to exercise restraint, the PTI report said.
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1100510/jsp/frontpage/story_12431454.jsp
‘Naga villages targeted’
morungexpress
Dimapur, May 9 (MExN): The Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim has pointed out that the “terrorizing suppression of the Manipur Government against the Nagas goes on unabated typical of inhuman law that exist nowhere in the world”. According to an MIP press note issued from Camp Viswema the basic rights of the Naga villages are now targeted by the state forces of Manipur. “Eight villages around the Maoshongshong water pipeline has been cut off and Mao Bazar area of both sides up to the distance of 200 meters above and below of the National Highway 39 is asked to vacate by Manipur forces”, the MIP informed. The eight villages are – Kaiyilu, Shongshong, Pikamai, Kalinamai, Pudunamai, Rubunamai, Punanamai and Chawainu. Besides, according to the MIP it is reported that Mao bazar is also about to be fenced with barbwires by the Manipur forces in order to stop the movement of the villagers in their native villages in the area.
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48470.html


Naga bodies hail MLAs
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 09 2010: The United Naga Council, Naga women's Union, All Naga Students Association Manipur and Naga People's Movement for Human Rights have conveyed appreciation to the seven) Naga MLAs who had announced resignation from the manipur Legislative Assembly on moral ground in the wake of the Cabinet decision of the State Government to bar Ato Kilonser of GPRN Th Muivah from visiting his own native village, even after consent of the Government of India.
Acknowledging resignations of Morung Makunga 42 – AC; Wungnaosang Keishing 43 – AC; Danny Shaiza 44 – AC; Dr Khashim Ruivah 45 – AC; M Thohrii 48 – AC; K Raina 49 – AC; and N Awangbou 52 – AC, the four Naga bodies in a joint statement said, "their strongest message of democratic protest against the total disregard of the informed opinion and wish of the people whom they represent is most timely and warmly welcomed by the Naga people. "They have taken this decision of conscience in deference to the wish of the people they represent. We are deeply grateful for abdication of their high offices as they found that their continuance as representative of the people is no more meaningful with the State Government adamantly opposed to the wish of their people" .
While congratulating the seven MLAs for their noble and mature statesmanship, they also urged the remaining three Naga MLAs namely Tribal Development Minister DD Thaisii, MPCC president Gaikhangam and Khangthuanang Panmei (53/AC) as well as all the conscientious legislators in the Manipur Assembly to resign from their offices in honour and respect of the students who have been killed and many others who suffered injuries during crackdown by State police personnel against protestors in Mao on May 6 .
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=23..100510.may10

Over 16 Govt offices torched in hills till date
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 09 2010: Over 16 Manipur Government offices have been burnt down in different hill districts of Manipur during the last four days including the latest case of arson at two offices of the SDO, in Ukhrul district of Manipur on Saturday night, according to reliable sources, reports NNN. The SDO offices of Chingai and Kamjong under Ukhrul district were set on fire by unknown persons last night, added the sources.
On May 7, offices of ZEO, Forest and Agriculture at Ukhrul district headquarter besides offices of Kasom Khullen SDO and Forest Beat of the same sub-division were torched by unknown persons. In Chandel district, offices of Agriculture, Horticulture, Forest Beat, Divisional Forest and newly constructed police station were set on fire on May 7 . In the district of Tamenglong, district Agriculture office was also burnt down. Earlier, the SDO office at Tadubi under Senapati district was razed to the ground on May 6 .
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=24..100510.may10

NPMHR accuses valley human rights crusaders
urges media to be fair
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Senapati, May 09 2010: The Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) has lamented that none of the human rights organisations based in Imphal valley has condemned the killing of two students at Mao Gate by the security forces.
"NPMHR is shocked that the human rights groups from Imphal valley, who have been campaigning against militarization, extra-judicial killing, asserting the rights to self-determined future and other human rights abuses, are yet to condemn the killings of innocent Nagas. What is more shocking is that some of the so called 'human rights' organisations are actively supporting the policies of the Government of Manipur against the Nagas which has already resulted in the loss of lives and injuries to many Nagas," alleged the Naga rights group in a statetement. NPMHR has also urged the media not to indulge in biased reporting. The rights group alleged that over the last few days, private media and even the All India Radio, have been broadcasting biased and twisted reports.
"For instance, some media reported that Mao residents found their houses ransacked but conveniently failed to mention that it was committed by IRB and Commandos stationed in Mao. The highest ethical requirement of newspersons is objectivity and neutrality, and we remind you to be true to your profession," it pointed out, while adding, "The ransacking, looting, and robbing of properties committed by the IRB and police commandos stationed in Mao Gate is an evidence of the lack of discipline within the forces. Witnesses have seen IRB and commandos personnel breaking and entering deserted houses, looting shops and other properties in Mao Gate. It is quite apt that the IRB and Manipur police commandos would indulge in such undisciplined behaviour," it added.
The Naga rights group has also called upon all Nagas to be vigilant against the "divisive forces that are working all the time" to create confusion and chaos among the Nagas. "We further call upon all Nagas to work towards strengthening our unity and to stand up for the rights of the Nagas", the NPMHR said. The Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) extends our deepest heartfelt condolences to the families of Chakha Neli and Loshou Daikho who were killed in firing by the Manipur Indian Reserved Battalion and Manipur Police Commandos stationed in Mao Gate on 6 May 2010, it said.
"We honour and salute their sacrifice as National heroes. Our prayers are with their families. We also express our sincere commiseration to all the brave women and men who braved bullets to stand up for the Nagas demand for peace. The whole Naga population is also with the many who have been displaced and uprooted from their homes”.

NPMHR once again called for an immediate roll back of the Manipur Cabinet decision to bar Th Muivah from visiting his birth place, decision to bar Th. Muivah from entering his birth place, and subsequent repressive measures being adopted to ensure its decision. "Terror and violence through military action will bring no solution to the conflict, peace and security can only be achieved by respecting the wishes of the people," the rights group said.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=14&src=100510

CS applies balm, pull out of State SF starts
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 09 2010: Chief Secretary DS Poonia has assured the representatives of Mao Council that State security forces currently deployed at Mao Gate in connection with the visit of NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Muivah would be withdrawn on phase-wise basis. Muivah is still putting up at Viswema village, 17 kms from Mao.
Even as the Chief Secretary assured the gradual pull out of State security forces from Mao, trainee Manipur police and 8th MR personnel deployed at Mao Gate have been withdrawn today. The State security team comprising of 3rd IRB, 5th IRB, 6th IRB, 7th MR led by Thoubal Senior SP Clay Khongsai and deployed at Jessami have also reached Imphal today. DS Poonia also promised to provide necessary compensations to the families of the two deceased youths and those who were injured in the incident of May 6 . The assurances were made by the Chief Secretary during his visit to Tadubi today at 10 am. He was accompanied by 57 Mountain Division GOC Maj Gen DS Hooda during his visit.
The Chief Secretary held an hour-long meeting with the representatives of Mao Council and tribal leaders on the prevailing situation at Mao Gate after he landed at Tadubi at around 10 am in a helicopter. DS Poonia also urged the Mao leaders to claim the two corpses lying at Mao police station in the meeting which was also attended by Senapati DC Nidhi Kesarwani and other officials. The Chief Secretary directed the DC to prepare a complete report of the persons affected during the May 6 incident so that necessary compensations can be provided.
Mao Council President O Lohrii however made it clear that Naga Hoho would decide whether to claim the corpses or not at this point of time. He also demanded the withdrawal of all State security forces from Mao Gate, institution of judicial inquiry into the May 6 incident and providing free passage to Th Muivah to visit his birthplace Somdal. Until and unless these demands are fulfilled, no compensation would be accepted, the President said.
Meanwhile, unidentified persons burnt down SDO offices at Phungyar, Kamjong, Kasom Khullen and Chingai of Ukhrul district at around 1:30 am this morning.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=17&src=100510

Nagas light candles for peace in Delhi
Source: The Sangai Express / Ninglun H
New Delhi / Imphal, May 09 2010: Church leaders and Naga public gathered at India Gate, Delhi in the evening today and lit candles and held prayer services in dedication for the victims of the recent incident at Mao gate. Hymns and choirs were sung in tune with the Healing of our Spirit , Theme song Naga week 1993, United Nation Declaration of Indigenous People. The service called for peace and an honourable solution.
The peace vigil was held under the initiative of the Naga Students Union, Delhi in collaboration with various Delhi based Naga Churches and fellowships. Hundreds of Naga youth, families, community leaders and other individuals prayed in solidarity for the victims and peace. Meanwhile, a torch rally was taken out at Senapati today evening to condemn the action of the State forces at Mao gate as well as to denounce the decision of the State Government to bar the entry of Th Muivah into Manipur.
Earlier in the day women staged a massive sit-in-protest at Senapati demanding that Th Muivah be given allowed to visit his birth place. Bodies disposal : Bodies of N Chakho Mao (20) and Loshuw Mao (20) who died in the police firing at Mao Gate on May 6 would be disposed off if nobody comes forward to claim it within 24 hours, informed O/C of Mao police station. He added that the corpses are still lying unclaimed at the police station after conducting autopsy. It may be mentioned that people in hundreds took out a rally at Mao Gate in protest against State Cabinet's decision to bar NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Muivah from entering Manipur. Some sections of the violent protesters barged into Mao town hall where State security forces were camping and vandalized ration, clothes and set afire security vehicles. The duo were killed in the subsequent firing of the security forces to put the mob under control inside the town hall.
Mao police station registered an FIR (12 (05) 10 Mao PS U/S 148/149/307/325/384/188/427/34 IPC) in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, the prohibitory order under CrPC 144 at Mao was relaxed from 6 am to 6 pm today. No unwanted incident has been reported during this time.
Sections of IPC:
*IPC 148: Rioting, armed with deadly weapon
*IPC 307: Attempt to murder, Attempts by life convicts
*IPC 325: Punishment for voluntarily causing grievous hurt
*IPC 384: Punishment for extortion
*IPC 188: Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant
*IPC 427: Mischief causing damage to the amount of fifty Rupees.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=15&src=100510
MSAD questions assault by Manipur police
morungexpress
Dimapur, May 9 (MExN): The Manipur Student’s Association Delhi has strongly condemned what it has termed as the “Indian State sponsored brutal assault by Manipur Police on the protesters at Mao Gate on 6 May 2010 that had killed three students, Mr Loshua, Mr. Chakho and Mr. Lokho” and the infliction of casualty upon several others including women, children and senior citizens. “The Indian State (including its puppet Manipur Government) is fully responsible for this unfortunate incident”, stated a press note issued by Apunbana Yaiphare of the MSAD. In this regard the press note called upon the concerned government to conduct an immediate judicial inquiry into the incident. The government should extend all the necessary supports and medical assistance to those who have suffered casualty in the incident, the MSAD stated.
It was pointed out that the Mao Gate firing incident was a “continued process of the overall reign of terror hitherto confined in the valley districts of Manipur unleashed by the Ibobi government”. It alleged that the “Ibobi regime had been sponsoring killing of civilians in the name of maintaining law and order and that the Government of India has been encouraging such terror activities by awarding gallantry awards to several Manipur police personnel. To give an example the MSAD informed that many of them were decorated with gallantry awards by the Indian state on 15th August 2009 for killing people. “What has become alarming is that the rampant repressions upon political assertion had left the people of Manipur with no space for peaceful democratic dialogue and consensus”. It was claimed that there was no space for civil liberties in Manipur under India installed Ibobi regime in Manipur.

Regarding Muivah’s visit to his birth place, the Manipur Students Association Delhi took the viewpoint and asserted that everyone has the right to live and freely roam in his/her homeland “where his/her umbilical cord is being buried”. Several selfless individuals had laid down their lives for the sake of their people and country, it stated and pointed out that those who have stood for democratic political cause to defend their people and country from external invasion and subjugation system are not criminals.

According to the MSAD, the leaders and cadres of NSCN-IM, militant organizations of the Kuki-Chin- Mizo communities that are under suspension of operation with the Manipur government and other India banned underground organizations such as the UNLF, PREPAK, RPF, KYKL, KCP and PULF should not be treated as criminals and they must have the right to visit their people and homeland on humanitarian ground without any restriction. Many of them have missed their homes, relatives, and cultural rights for several years. “Let them visit and roam freely and interact with the people for open dialogue and solution to the decades old political armed-conflict prevailing in Manipur”, it stated. “We would encourage everyone to welcome the rebels to visit their respective homes. Let them enjoy what belong to them”, it further stated. It also pointed out that “territorial integrity can never be defended by military barricades without the support of the people who inhabit the territory”. “We believe in voluntary unionism of communities where each community is a stakeholder in the collective polity, economy, culture and other common platforms”, it stated while adding that the “Indian state had terribly failed in this aspect in its Manipur policy” and that it “had fully relied on its military power to defend an Indian empire by suppressing the right of democracy of the subjugated people of Manipur”. It stated that “military can only invade and create a colony” and that “it cannot create a nation”. “The same logic applies to Manipur. The territory of Manipur can never exist in the present form for any longer period if it is an extended colony of any chauvinistic policy”. The MSAD pointed out that the “territorial integrity of Manipur can only be protected by the unity of the communities” and that the “Manipur police that is supposed to provide with security to the ordinary citizens can never be the vanguard of any superimposed territorial integrity unacceptable to all”. It pointed out that any section of the Manipur population who would seek for armed intervention to defend the territorial integrity of Manipur from dissenting politics is merely imitating the brutal mechanistic approach adopted by the Indian state while attempting to defend territory of the Indian empire.

As such the MSAD stated that it was strongly opposed to the heavy deployment of armed personnel in and around the market area of the Mao Gate. Accordingly, it stated that the Indian armed personnel including the Manipur Police Commandoes can never be a substitute for the growth of amicable political dialogue and consensus among the people of Manipur. “The state as we believe is the instrument of oppression of the ruling class irrespective of any community background. The police acted as the backbone in defending the state. The terrorist regime under Ibobi government is anti-people.

Ibobi is yet to adequately address series of fake encounters. We still remember how Sanjit and Rabina were killed in broad day light and how the issue was diverted by Ibobi”. It was pointed out that an “adamant and stubborn Ibobi will commit all forms of treachery and misbehavior to retain power and loot the resource of the people”. In this regard, it was informed that several villages are being displaced and large tracts of agricultural lands are being destroyed in the name of developmental projects. “If any person or any section of the population would eulogies Ibobi and the MPCs as angels of integrity, it would encourage Ibobi to carry on with his puppetry under the subjugating, oppressive and exploitative overarching Indian rulers. Let us fight against it together”.

Lastly, the MSAD pointed out that “emotional integrity among communities cannot be achieved by restricting to organizing of intercommunity cultural festival and hosting intercommunity grand feast alone”. “Emotional integrity has to be corresponded with sincere effort towards mutual understanding and co operation. It has to be gradually materialized along with gradual and consistent efforts towards selfless creation of democratic platform for transparent dialogue and consensus”, it stated. The MSAD appealed to all the civil societies in Manipur to follow the democratic principle of recognizing each other’s rights and primordial attachment with respectively imagine territoriality. “At the moment of misery and material scarcity any section of the population may not indulge in generating artificial famine by the way of imposing economic blockade along the lifelines of the population”. It also appealed to the Naga Students’ Federation, the ANSAM, the UCM and any other organization to lift embargo (economic blockade) imposed upon the ordinary citizens on the pretext of political bargaining. “Let us fight for peace together!” it concluded.
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48471.html

Civil society leaders assaulted
morungexpress
Kohima | May 9 : The Naga Hoho General Secretary P. Chuba Ozukum, Joint Secretary G. Vashum and Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) member Nepuni Piku were assaulted by two armed miscreants in Kohima on Sunday afternoon. A civil society member told media persons that the incident took place around 3 pm at Hotel Grandeur, BOC area. The member said that two unidentified persons carrying small arms barged into their room and started assaulting them. Chuba Ozukum and Vashum sustained injuries on their heads as they were hit with the butts of the firearms. The gunmen reportedly dragged Nepuni into the bathroom where he was kicked several times. The gunmen also snatched the mobile handsets, wallets of the three civil society members besides smashing a laptop and printer of one of the members. After the miscreants left, the three members rushed to ICU, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima, and received medical treatment.
Chuba received one stitch on his head and G. Vashum received two stitches on his face. Doctors said their condition is out danger. Both are still recuperating in ICU, while Nepuni was discharged after first aid. Following the incident, Police have stepped up security in the state capital.

Meanwhile according to a press note issued by Speaker H.K Zhimomi and Joint Secretary Nikhrolo Khalo “the gangsters barged into the room and ordered them to hand over their wallets, ATM cards, laptops and printer. When the civil society leaders resisted they started assaulting them with the butts of handguns. Thereafter they looted their wallets, mobile phones, laptops cash and important documents in the suit cases and escaped, the Naga Hoho informed.

Naga organizations condemn assault

NSF to take out public rally at Kohima today

Dimapur, May 9 (MExN): The Naga Hoho has condemned the “heinous assault and looting” of Mr Chuba Ozukum, General Secretary, Naga Hoho; Mr G. Vashum, Jt Secretary, Naga Hoho and Mr. Nepuni Piku, member of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation by two gun wielding unidentified miscreants at around 3 PM of 9th May, 2010 at the hotel in which they were staying in Kohima. “At this turning point in the collective lives of the Naga people, when the efforts for peace and understanding are showing welcomed signs of progress, it is greatly distressing that social misfits and criminals have wreaked unprovoked violence upon these leaders who have been in the forefront of the movement for peace in our land”, stated a press note from Speaker H.K Zhimomi and Joint Secretary Nikhrolo Khalo. The Naga Hoho appealed to all right thinking members of the society to condemn this dastardly act, which it pointed out had “insulted the Naga people at large” and strongly urged the authorities to apprehend the culprits at the earliest and award them befitting punishment.
Nagaland Home Minister Imkong L. Imchen has also condemned the assault on Naga Hoho officials, including its General Secretary at Kohima today by some unidentified persons. Terming such kind of criminal offense as “totally uncalled for and unwarranted”, the Minister stated that there was no justification whatsoever. The Minister in a press note pointed out that the Naga Hoho, ENPO are doing commendable job in the larger interest of Naga people since its inception and the successive office bearers had been putting their best efforts, especially for the unification of Naga people. “These jobs are easier said then done. Instead of supporting and assisting in such commendable efforts people are interested to commit criminal offence on such reputed Naga leaders.

It is very unfortunate and condemnable by all sections of the people and therefore everybody should look forward in building Naga society more united and violent free”, the Home Minister stated. In a separate press note Minister for Health & Family Welfare Kuzholuzo Nienu stated that it was a shocking incident and at a time when all Naga leaders are concerned about maintaining peace, to do away with mistrusts and misunderstandings and putting efforts to bring about unification among the various Naga political groups and at the same time to maintain cordial relationship with our neighbouring states and as such such kind of incident deserved to be condemned by every rational person. “I believe an attack on any Naga leader is a direct attack on all the Nagas”, the Minister stated.

The Naga Student Federation (NSF) while vehemently condemning the incident termed as the “most barbaric and cowardice act”. A press note from NSF President and General Secretary stated that “such kind of coward act will not chicken us in any manner”. According to NSF, the “culprit should come out openly instead of acting it from behind”. The NSF called upon all right thinking citizens to condemn it. Further the Federation urged upon the state Government to book the culprit at the earliest and award punitive action. In regard to today’s incident, the NSF will organize a “Public Rally” at Old MLA Junction, Kohima Town, Dated 10th April 2010 at 10:30 am. Therefore, the Federation appealed to all the concern citizens to attend the programme.

In another joint statement the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) and the Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) pointed out that it was shocked by the attack on civil society leaders and peace activists. While vehemently condemning the assailants and their heinous act, the joint statement demanded that the state government conducts proper inquiry into the incident without much ado or delay, to apprehend the assailants and to impose befitting justice upon them. “We appeal to all our people everywhere not to be restive because of this despicable occurrence but rather be more resolute in our strife to fulfill our political and social goals”, stated the press note issued jointly by
Dr. N. Venuh Secretary General, NPMHR and Abei-u Meru, President, NMA.
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48474.html

Slouching towards nemesis
NP Ariiphre
“Treacherous generals: See my dead house, look at the broken Spain:… from every crime bullets are born which will one day find the bull’s eye of your hearts…. Come and see the blood in the streets… Come and see the blood in the streets.” (I ‘m explaining a few things by Pablo Neruda)
Dear friends in the South,

Attaining liberation with harmony is undoubtedly not an easy job. A feeling of deep sadness, despair and repress anger churns within my soul as I read the headlines “protest rally turn bloody” “Mayhem in Mao, 2 students killed” “ Naga orgs condemns killings , vows to fight back” that the Manipur state armed forces has brazenly laid siege over the Mao town and has undertaken a killing spree leaving 2 death, more than 100 injured and many taken into illegal detention on the 6th May 2010 as a preemptive strike to scuttle the peace journey of our nation elder Th.Muivah to his native somdal village.
I mourn the death of two young innocent soul, Chakho and Loshuo, and many public injured in the demonic orchestration which the maniacal rulers of Manipur state and its masters at Delhi cannot free themselves of responsibility. It is unfortunate that the Meitei dominated state power machine has once again laid their tactical siege with utmost precision with their many decades experimentation of statecraft which has belied our people’s aspiration. Nagas have from the earliest time maintain good neighbourly relation with the Meitei but their display of arrogance, inhumanity and misuse of so called democratic institutions have already caused tremendous strain in our ethnic solidarity. The blatant intolerance and gruesome murders exhibited on a nonviolent movement under the garb of employing state terrorism and hate campaign against Naga leader Muivah has destroyed any feeling of Mongolian solidarity that ever existed.

The communal agenda pursue by the Ibobi ministry has now gone beyond the tolerable limits and has set a downward path making the ethnic fiber in Manipur untenable anymore. The bloods of the martyrs of August 1948 ‘non-tax campaign’ against Manipur raja has arisen once again to the point of no return now. The brutality and insensitivity with which the nonviolent mass protest against the erection of barricades to limit free movement of the civilians under the pretext of opposing Muivahs visit to native Somdal has now enchained itself with the sentiments and survival of the Southern Nagas administered under Manipur. Where has the CM Ibobi ministry debunked their constitutional responsibility of protecting and providing security to all its citizens equally under a democratic dispensation? How can a running government instigate communal tensions in the Imphal valley to fit into its pre-plan ordeal at cost of human lives and sufferings? Why do the Meities want the land but not the people in the Naga Hills administered under Manipur state?

The Manipur Rifles, the state armed soldiers has defied all sense of humanitarian protocol and has sought to unleash the fury on the innocent public murdering and injuring the non-violent protestors. Even the 8 ambulance from the Indian Red Cross Society which arrived from Kohima to take away the injured civilian and death bodies were not even spared, in violation of all norms of international humanitarian standards as espoused under the Geneva Convention and other major international human rights treaties. Only 3 out of the 8 ambulance were allowed into the blood splatters streets of Mao gate to retrieve the grievously injured only after much harassment, delay and being attacked by the mob bomb and tear gas shells. Great job braving all the bullets and teargas shells targeted at them!

The outright and vicious murder of the 2 innocent students within the Mao town hall and injuring multitude of innocent public besides illegal detention of more than 30 civilians as a deliberate human shield cordoning the ruthless Manipur Rifles commandoes cannot be condoned. Manipur today is gradually slouching towards nemesis because the very values of its foundation of an imagine brotherhood has been exposed by its depraving show of communalist clout. What kind of state security force is Manipur Rifles which exclusively armed the well trained Meities sepoys on the one hand and brings around a lathi wielding hill community sepoys who new recruits yet to finish their mandatory training manuals for such an operation? It is only within the mindset of a chauvinistic and arrogant ideology of purist vaishanavism to use human shields with the newly recruited and untrained hill community sepoys as cannon fodders to their covetous game plan of causing a hitch in the Naga peace building process.

The misrepresentation of the non-violent democratic rally at Mao gate by the electronic and mass media groups has becomes problematic since without the spirit of an independent and impartial reporting, media tends to bend towards the more powerful and the manipulative actors thereby becoming a part of the problem preventing justice to this human tragedy. The NDTV reporter Gyatri Chaterjee reporting from Mao gate projects the protesters as NSCN(IM) supporters exclusively instead of the reflecting the support rendered by the masses to a Leader who stood for their aspiration, despite the detractors ascribing him with many colour. The NETV has also reported fallaciously that the gun firing ‘as a result of snatching AK 47 rifles’ from the security forces by the non violent passive resisters, instead of the preemptive display of terror on the part of the Manipur security commandoes, to scuttle the peaceful movement through provocation, threat and ultimate violence. The PTI report which again appeared in the Hindu and other leading Delhi based papers have stated that ‘those killed were caused by stampede’. The mass media reflection has been to a large extent either manipulated or infiltrated by anti- naga elements out to paint the other side of fact. Delhi with its many henchmen at the base should be wary that Nagas are not so unaware of the many forces trying to toy with the Naga Peace process. Time is now ripe to refocus political responsibility instead of passing balls in the corridors of centre-state politics as to who is responsible for the innocent blood spilled and creating mayhem out of a simple humanitarian act of Muivah trying to visit his native village Somdal.

The Joint Working Group (JWG) comprising of three naga political groups viz. NSCN/GPRN, FGN & GPRN/NSCN, which are making great effort towards ‘reconciliation based on the historical and political rights of the Nagas,’ have undoubted spell out that “no one should be barred from ones native land” in our journey of common Hope is a significant testament which the state powers should comprehend adequately. The Naga Hoho, ENPO, Concern citizens and Elders Forum, Mokokchung, Tenyimi Peoples organisation, Naga Mothers Association, Naga Women Union, All Zeliagrong Students Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, UNC, NSF, UNC, NPMHR, GBs & DBs, etc have voiced and reinforced the non violent peoples movement that has arisen from dark hole of threat and violence overcoming the perpetual sense of powerlessness and prolonged sufferings. Manipur state and its power mongers has been clearly cautioned that it will be ‘futile and costly affair to interfere in Naga affair’ by the Naga organisations. The non violent protest at Mao gate is not a movement supporting any particular group’s interests but a spontaneous and organic response to the dignity of the Naga people.
Where do we go now from here? The intimidation, threat and violence has not stop us from standing up for our inherent democratic rights, upholding the principles of natural human rights of asserting simply what is ours and respecting what belongs to others. Its now time to undo the historical wrong on our people. The resignation tendered by the 6 MLAs in the Manipur Assembly on moral ground as protest over insensitivity to their request for reconsidering the Manipur Cabinet decision to ban entry of Muivah into his native village besides the senseless “killings and injuring of innocents in the unprovoked firing” is applaudable and timely. Civil society’s friends in India have expressed their concern over the developing tensions and many northeast people’s organisations counterparts have condemned the excessiveness and anti-peace campaign of the Manipur state. Nagas continues to resist the idea that they cannot determine their own future. The people’s movement for truth, justice and peace need to be persistent though it’s hugely difficult. We need to consistently work towards achieving our common vision with the expectation that the night is almost getting over. Creating and prioritizing our campaign for peace strategically beginning with small achievable ones to build confidence within our people, which is a must. Clarity and decisiveness makes it possible to learn from the struggle and become stronger. Lack of clarity or priority of goals keeps everyone confused and weak. Vagueness of objective also makes it more difficult for sympathizers to monitor and assist the movement. Vagueness of objective plays into the hands of psychological warfare from authorities, who like to keep the as many people confused as possible.

Nagas gifted with a unique cultural heritage are very clear about their history and territory. They are aware that Meities have not planted rice or yam or bananas or the wild fruits from forest in their territory. The Meities or Manipur state has not given the technology for Nagas to erect traditional gates which were dignified and revered by all. Neither has it been broken with contempt unlike the recent event. Naga carved and decorated their own house and preserve their past megalithic culture on their own till the present day. The Meities have not impregnated our female ancestress to make use of us as subservient entities under them forever. Then why should south Nagas want to live in suffocation, being looked down as ‘haos’ imposed to adore a higher culture and language or being easily befooled by ching-tam drums? When we surely know that there is no space for equal dignity and mutual respect, where the only way to knowing southern Nagas ‘not as a people’ but ‘abstract populations’ through their world view’s imposed category of ‘tribals’. ‘Justice for all so long as tribals maintain statuesque by not demanding fish everyday like us’ type berating attitude is not tenable in a modern democratic society. The Word has enlightened us through the good news that there is a time for everything on earth. Nagas have to make their best effort to achieve lasting peace through truth and justice, for generations yet to come before the noose on the neck becomes too deep. We must work until this chain of oppression and repression is broken from this alien culture. The world is observing the unfolding of events; Nagas must not fall back to the violent pressure of dominant forces but to resolutely wage peace non-violently to take our movement to a higher plane. The future beckons us to be surefooted and not to remain fringe dweller of a society stuck with imponderable chauvinism which has become irrelevant as of in this new millennium.

“Make us equals, not dependants; Self respect, not resignation; Not control, but self-reliance; We want freedom, not frustrations; Brotherhood, not ostracism; We want hope, not chauvinism; Encouragement, not prohibition; Banish bans, conquer caste; Make us neighbours, not fringe dwellers; Confidence, not condescension; Give us Christ, not crucifixion; Give goodwill, not bigot bias, Give us choice, not cold coercion”

NP Ariiphre, Midland
http://www.morungexpress.com/analysis/48356.html

No Forced Union Let People Decide
morungexpress
Disturbing reports emanating from Mao Gate area and the killing of two Naga youths in police firing, on May 6, 2010 certainly does not augur well for peace and stability in the region including Imphal valley, Naga Hill areas of Manipur and Nagaland. The Ibobi Singh government in Imphal remains steadfast in its decision to disallow the entry of Th Muivah to his native village under Ukhrul district of Manipur. The problem arises in that Chief Minister Ibobi Singh has no other option but to placate Meiteis sentiment in the Imphal Valley. The earlier decision of the Manipur government to declare June 18 as ‘state integrity day’ in order to commemorate the anniversary of the 2001 anti-ceasefire uprising is well known. Since protecting the present State boundary has become a paramount objective of the political establishment in Imphal, the refusal to give way on the Muivah visit despite Delhi’s prompting should therefore not come as a surprise. While one should respect the sentiment of the valley people i.e. the Meiteis vis-à-vis protecting the present State boundary, nevertheless isn’t it now time for Imphal to do a reality check and look at the ground situation.

No doubt integration of Naga inhabited areas has today become an intricate issue. But then the Nagas in Manipur cannot be forced into a union with Manipur against their wishes. And in recent years the urge and desire of the Nagas there to integrate with their other fellow Nagas has become so strong that even the Manipuri people should duly acknowledge this reality. Emotionally too there is close affinity among the Nagas despite the man made boundaries. What is more, the Naga areas in Manipur bordering Nagaland exhibit commonalties with the latter in terms of race, language, religion, natural systems, environment, culture and ways of life. Physically too, it will be easier to administer from Nagaland. To illustrate this point, as casualties began to mount on May 6, it was the Red Cross unit of Nagaland State, which was able to rush in life saving drugs to the Community Health Centre in Mao under Manipur State. On many other occasions as well, succor and relief would come more quickly from Kohima then it would from far away and ‘distant’ Imphal. So naturally Nagas in Manipur feel much closer to their brethren in Nagaland and therefore the desire for integration not only as a matter of administrative convenience but also as a right.

As rightly pointed out by the Manipur based ‘Campaign for Peace & Democracy’, everyone should put their heads together to find a democratic solution. The Nagas in Manipur under the United Naga Council have been peacefully petitioning the powers that be for unification of their homeland. And the fact that they are determined to live under one political administration has been amply demonstrated by the historic decision on 21st of June 2006, when a delegation of the Naga Hill areas met the then Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil and Oscar Fernandes to hand over Hill House Tax–2006 of Rs. 14, 23,425 of 94894 Naga households living in Manipur. Similarly, the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has been working towards affiliation of schools and colleges in the Naga districts of Manipur to the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) and the Nagaland University (NU). Even the prescribed textbooks of the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur (BoSEM) beginning from Class VIII - X was surrendered. All together about156 private schools have introduced the NBSE’s prescribed syllabus from the academic session 2006. Given these facts and reality, the Manipur public, civil society organization and the establishment there should try to work on a democratic solution along with the Nagas. Let the voices of the common people be heard. Let’s put an end to force. Let Meiteis and Nagas live in peaceful co-existence as good neighbors.
http://www.morungexpress.com/editorial/48349.html

A Place Called Home
morungexpress
The Ibobi Singh Government’s decision to bar the entry of Thuingaleng Muivah, the General Secretary of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN), into Manipur is quite baffling. If the visit of Muivah to his native village Somdal under Ukhrul district had gone ahead as planned i.e. without the ban and subsequent commotion, things would have been simpler and also quieter. In fact it is strange that the Manipur Cabinet had justified its decision arguing that Muivah’s visit may lead to “communal disharmony” and also “disturb peaceful co-existence among different communities in the State”. But then look at what has happened. Instead of Muivah’s visit, it is the decision of the Manipur government, which has actually led to disturbing peace and communal harmony in the region. No one wants confrontation and resort to violence. But the belligerent stance of the Manipur government does not help in the cause of peaceful co-existence. The Government of India on its part should have been clear-cut on its decision to allow or disallow Muivah’s entry into Manipur. The wavering stand of New Delhi has only added to the confusion and the subsequent volatile situation in the region.

From the way the political establishment in Manipur has handled the situation so far, it does appear that a feeling of insecurity prevails especially in Imphal valley. And this is proved by the fact that security personnel at the check gate bordering Nagaland-Manipur informed that the Manipur Cabinet had even gone to the extent of ordering that no Nagaland journalist be permitted entry on the plea that media persons in Nagaland would “distort or twist the actual prevailing situation”. This stance towards the media is hardly surprising given the known high handed attitude of the Manipur government even towards its own local press. Attempt to curtail press freedom is a sure sign that the Manipur government is actually apprehensive about exposing the truth that people especially in the Naga Hill districts fully support the Muivah visit. And the decision of the State government to ban Muivah’s entry has only added to the outpouring of grievances against the political establishment in Imphal.

But then, how long can one hide the truth. Unfortunately for the Manipur government, its attempt to gag the media notwithstanding, a team of women activists from Delhi and Mumbai could visit two villages inside Manipur State. And it was put on record by the two independent observers that they could “hear voices of peace in the Naga Hills of Manipur” despite what the duo termed as “State belligerence as well as protests” in the midst of the tension surrounding the proposed visit of Muivah to the Naga Hills of Manipur”. The point is that no democratically elected government should try to muzzle the free flow of information under any circumstances unless off course it has something to hide from the rest of the world. Hopefully the Ibobi Singh government will see reason and take necessary steps to ease the restrictions imposed. As a native, it is the birthright of Muivah to visit his home and this fundamental right should not be denied to him. The Naga side including students and civil society groups should also restrain from taking recourse to violent method. For now both sides should show mutual respect for each others position on the emotive issue of integration. Let better sense prevail on all sides.
http://www.morungexpress.com/editorial/48211.html

UCM says, Muivah trapped in the tricks of GOI
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 09 2010: "Unless and until Muivah drops his demand for greater Nagaland from the peace talk with Government of India, he will not allow entering Manipur," said the United Committee UCM today in a statement reaffirming its stance for the territorial integrity of the state. Muivah's effort to enter his birthplace Somdal with hidden political agenda in the back should not be allowed at any cost, the statement signed by assistant secretary, IPR N Jiban said. The hidden agenda behind his visit in the state is well known to all section of the society.
Since the signing ceasefire pact between the NSCN (IM) and Government of India on August 1, 1997, more than 70 rounds of peace talks had hold but the talks could not conclude as there could not bring any amicable solution at some of the important demands of the outfit. Among the important demands it includes unification of all Naga inhabitant areas to form a greater Nagaland which would disintegrate Manipur.
Muivah's dream of breaking Manipur is not yet leaving behind. Muivah, who was trapped in the trick of the India government is spewing venoms to the people only to plea the leaders of the Indian government who wanted to create restless in the region. He is spewing venoms to the innocent brothers of hills area to create communal disharmony so that hatred be developed among the people of the multi-ethnic communities' state, the statement said.
This is the second time in which GOI is trying to break the territorial integrity of Manipur in collusion with Muivah, the statement alleged citing the first instance was that of June 14, 2001 Bangkok Declaration which includes extension of ceasefire between government forces and NSCN(IM) beyond Nagaland without territorial limit, as a result of which a uprising that lost to 18 live occurred on June 18 of the same year.
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=2..100510.may10

People in Tamenglong reeling under severe food scarcity
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Daniel Kamei
Tamenglong, May 09 2010: People in Tamenglong district are facing hardship as scarcity of food has severely hit them due to prolonged economic blockade imposed along National Highways and suspension of passenger bus services from Imphal to Tamenglong after the State Government announced the ADC election in the hill districts of Manipur.
The situation worsened with the violent standoff at Mao Gate over the proposed visit of NSCN-IM lader Th Muivah to Manipur as bandh and general strike followed one after another. All shops and rice stores have remained completely empty for the past one week.


The only FCS godwon in Tamenglong has been empty for over a month. The only petrol pump at Tamenglong district headquarter has also dried up. No diesel and petrol are available in Tamenglong district HQs for the last one week. Prices of other food items have also soared giving a serious blow to the common people.
It is worth mentioning here that the JAC of Unwanted ADC Act under the banner of UNC and ANSAM launched an indefinite blockade along NH 39 and NH 53 since April 12 demanding cancellation of the ADC elections until the ADC Act 2008 is amended.
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=3..100510.may10

People in Tamenglong reeling under severe food scarcity
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Daniel Kamei
Tamenglong, May 09 2010: People in Tamenglong district are facing hardship as scarcity of food has severely hit them due to prolonged economic blockade imposed along National Highways and suspension of passenger bus services from Imphal to Tamenglong after the State Government announced the ADC election in the hill districts of Manipur. The situation worsened with the violent standoff at Mao Gate over the proposed visit of NSCN-IM lader Th Muivah to Manipur as bandh and general strike followed one after another. All shops and rice stores have remained completely empty for the past one week.

The only FCS godwon in Tamenglong has been empty for over a month. The only petrol pump at Tamenglong district headquarter has also dried up. No diesel and petrol are available in Tamenglong district HQs for the last one week. Prices of other food items have also soared giving a serious blow to the common people. It is worth mentioning here that the JAC of Unwanted ADC Act under the banner of UNC and ANSAM launched an indefinite blockade along NH 39 and NH 53 since April 12 demanding cancellation of the ADC elections until the ADC Act 2008 is amended.
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=3..100510.may10

SDSA demands withdrawal of Commandos, IRBs
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 09 2010: The senapati District Students' Association (SDSA) has demanded immediate withdrawal of Manipur Police Commandos and IRBs from the Naga dominated areas. If the government fails to do so, the SDSA will not continue to be patient and will resort to any form of democratic agitation. This was informed by president of SDSA, A Pfokrehrii Khrasi in a press release today. While expressing condolence to the bereaved families on the killing of Chakho and Loshou of Kalinamai at Mao gate on May 6, the SDSA stated that it condemns the action of the state forces.
In spite of the fact that the situation at Mao was volatile and sensitive, the attitude of the State Government through the Cabinet decision to reaffirm its stand has resulted to the present situation. For which the SPF led Congress Government under CM Ibobi should be held for any untoward consequences in teh coming days of the prevailing situation, the press release added.
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=8..100510.may10

SDSA condoles, flays police
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 09 2010: Senapati District Students' Association (SDSA), while condoling the death of two youths, in police firing at Mao Gate on May 6 has condemned the police action. A press release of the students' body said, despite the fact that the situation at Mao was volatile and sensitive; the State Cabinet reaffirmed its stand resulting to the death of the two youths and inflicting injuries on many. SDSA added that the State Govt must be held responsible for any untoward incident in the coming days.

SDSA warned that it would resort to any form of agitation if Manipur police commandos and IRB personnel are not withdrawn from every part of Naga dominated areas.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=19&src=100510

NH-39 barricades yet to be cleared
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 09 2010: Even though the State Govt has sought Army's assistance in removing road blocks like boulders and trees put up along NH-39, the road blocks have not been removed till today. Spokesperson of the SPF Govt and Sports Minister N Biren, however, claimed that the Army have initiated move to clear the barricades put up at different points along the National Highway.

However, one army officer said that the highway clearance work has not been initiated due to a number of reasons including protest demonstrations staged by womenfolk at different places along the highway
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=Snipp7&src=100510
Press Invitation

Naga Students’ Union Delhi (NSUD)

The Naga Students’ Union Delhi is organizing a ‘sit-in Dharna’ today – Monday, May 10, 2010 infront of the Prime Minister’s resident from 5pm onwardsin protest against the killing and injuring at Mao Gate on the 6th of May, 2010, by the Manipur Police Cammondos. . The Dharna is to appeal the Centre Government of India to intervene on the military action recently enveloping in Naga’s area of Manipur by the Manipur Government and also to take immediate on the demands of the memorandum that was submitted to the GoI by NSUD.
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Federalism challenged Northeast Echoes PATRICIA MUKHIM The Telegraph

Policemen fire tear gas shells to disperse protesters at Mao Gate. Picture by Eastern Projections


What has happened at Mao Gate, Manipur, is simply the revival of an old saga. India does not call itself a “federal” republic. The word was wisely left out by the framers of the Constitution, possibly because this document was crafted amidst a great deal of insecurity following the trauma and bloodshed of Partition.
An insecure nation could not have possibly wanted strong, autonomous states. Even today when India has emerged as a great contender for the title “superpower”, there is constant fear lurking in the minds of the rulers in Delhi that states, particularly those in the Northeast, which began their tryst with India as recalcitrant units, might eventually rebel and break away from the Centre.
This insecurity has given rise to several wrong policies, which have undermined the decision-making powers of states and reduced them to subservient poltroons of a patronising Centre. In recent times, even crucial decisions about government formation in states where the Congress party gets the majority votes, are decided by a high command in Delhi.
Perhaps this is what guided Union home minister P. Chidambaram to take a unilateral decision of allowing Th. Muivah, the NSCN (I-M) protagonist, to visit his village, Somdal, which happens to be within the constitutional boundaries of Manipur, without as much as taking the Manipur government into confidence. Only after the decision was announced was Manipur told to ensure safe passage for Muivah.
State autonomy
The Union home ministry’s capricious decision, followed by an equally arrogant diktat of forcing compliance from the Manipur government should get the states thinking whether they actually enjoy any autonomy at all and whether it is not high time to be debating this issue.
Senior advocate of Supreme Court, Fali S. Nariman, in his article, The Federal way Forward, says the Union of a strong Centre and weak states has not worked. Only strong self-reliant states will make a United India. Nariman goes on to point out that while Article 1 of the Constitution did proclaim the federal character of India, ironically, Article 3 empowers Parliament to diminish the area of any state, alter its boundaries and change its name. This could be achieved (the Supreme Court had said in 1960) despite the opposition of the state and of its inhabitants. If Parliament, by ordinary law, could abolish a state, could the Union of States ever be described as “federal”? The framers of the Constitution evaded this issue and refrained from using this word.
There are enough bleeding heart liberals in this country who believe they have intrinsic knowledge of every insurgency/militancy/rebellion/Naxalism/Maoism/sub-nationalist movements currently on the boil. They also believe they can rule this country better than what they see happening at present. Some of their prescriptions, however, are rather simplistic. Those who don’t live in glass houses do not know what it is like to lose a glass pane. The gale that comes through the broken pane could blow away the entire house. This is how strong the cyclonic storms are in the Northeast. But I would still argue that it is good to have activists who are antagonistic to the state. Even those who demonise the “rotten” state and call it “Empire” yet enjoy so much liberty to continue with their project are welcome. After all, it takes all kinds to make India and Bharat a functioning republic and not a dysfunctional authoritarian regime.
Muivah question
But let us now get back to Muivah for now. Of course, every “person” on this earth has a right to visit his birthplace and native village. There can be no quarrel on this. And every such person must, of course, have valid travel documents if he/she has lived abroad for over 40 years and only comes visiting. If special concessions are made in the case of Muivah, might it not be that precedence is created whereby every controversial renegade visits his home when he feels like and exits into the jungles or other international havens when he chooses to? Perhaps the problem lies with definitions. Who is Muivah to the Indian state? How is he perceived by the government and people of Manipur? (Here I am talking about the Meiteis because Manipur is a state whose communities are vertically divided on ethnic, religious and ideological lines). There is no ambiguity about how the Nagas of Manipur define Muivah. He is their hero; the leader of their national movement; their ato kilonser. But it would be interesting to hear what the perception of the ordinary Nagas of Nagaland are about Muivah.
Muivah is, therefore, a man of multiple identities, which also is not a problem, but is Muivah an Indian citizen? There is a question mark here. To Manipur, Muivah is persona non-grata, because, if he has his way, the state would be so reduced in size as to make it only a district adjoining Nagalim. The NSCN (I-M) claims that it extends to all Naga-inhabited areas within Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. This is the map of Nagalim an ideological homeland where all Nagas will live happily ever after, if it materialises. But Muivah’s claims are not acceptable to all three states. The Centre has very discreetly chosen to let the ambiguity persist.
Boundary row
The Centre is well aware of the repercussions if it even begins to tinker with the boundaries of any of the states in the Northeast. Any attempt to incise Manipur could lead to a revolution which would snowball into something so devastating that the Dantewada incident would appear like a side-show to the real thing. The region is a conduit for both drugs and arms — two very lethal elements that sustain insurgency here. Those who understand the region by virtue of having to deal with it on a daily basis would know how terribly complex and tortuous the situation is and that it does not lend itself to simplistic diagnostic prescription. Not even the astute Chidambaram understands even a fraction of the underlying reasons for conflict here.
That is why the Union home minister’s argument that Muivah has a right to visit his native home has now turned into political voyeurism as we watch the dead being buried and listen to the agonising cries of the wounded. Indeed this is conventional wisdom turned on its head.
By no stretch of the imagination is Muivah an ordinary “citizen”. His visit to Ukhrul at a time when Manipur is undergoing other internal contortions (boycott of district council elections in the hills) and the blockade on National Highway 39, is bound to conflate the unrest. Now Muivah has only heightened the animosity that was otherwise hidden under the veneer of a happy co-existence. Perhaps that was his intention. He was trying to gauge if the “movement” has reached a “fatigue level”. Undoubtedly, Muivah is enjoying the adulation he has been shown at Mao Gate. After all, the Nagas like all tribals here, never question received wisdom, nor have they shown the stamina for an honest critique of their history. To the intrusive observer, Nagas appear to dwell on the past with extraordinary persistence, yet try to grasp the challenging future, without living the thorny present. This cannot but be problematical.
Meanwhile, Chidambaram will have to live with the deaths he has caused through his indiscreet political decision of, first, granting Muivah the permission to travel to Manipur and, secondly, of bypassing the state government which has remained uncharacteristically unrelenting. Sometimes states can also bare their fangs if that is the only means to the political survival of the key players.
(The writer can be contacted at patricia17@rediffmail.com)
Protestors stage sit-ins over proposed visit of Naga leader ORKUT
Imphal, May 10 (ANI): Residents of Imphal staged a sit-in demonstration across the region against the visit of leader of National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah, who wants unification and eventual independence of Naga-dominated areas in the north-east.
The protests were held under the auspices of the Apunba Meira Paibi and other local clubs such as the Youth Development Organisation of Thangmeiband Thingel.


Demonstrators burnt effigies of Muviah and Home Minister P. Chidambaram and raised slogans that objected to Muviah's proposed visit to his ancestral village Somdal in Ukhrul District.

They alleged that Muivah's homecoming was only a ploy to cause a communal crisis in the state.

"The decision taken by Chidambaram is a secret conspiracy. He has not informed or involved any political leaders of the state. He wants to destroy the integrity of the state, and, we are strongly opposed to it," said K Shyama Devi, a protestor. Earlier, the All Manipur United Club Organisation (AMUCO) had called for a two-day shutdown in the state.

The NSCN-IM had agreed to a ceasefire in August 1997 and launched a peace process with the Central Government to bring an end to the longest-running insurgency in India.he rebel group has participated in several rounds of talks with central officials since the start of the ceasefire.

But talks between the two sides have not made progress over the rebels' main demand of unification and eventual independence of Naga-dominated areas in northeast India. (ANI)

Should PTI responsible for distorting news at Mao, Manipur killing? Dr. R.B.Thohe Pou

Press Trust of India is considered to be one of the most trusted news agencies in India. PTI is a registered news agency since 1949 and many national and local dailies subscribed to it. It would be difficult to question the reliability of PTI news report as it is one of the most trusted news agencies in India but the accurate news need to be reported keeping the neutrality and the spirit of the media. Most of the National dailies, like The Times of India, The Hindu, The Statement, The NDTV, ZeeNews etc reported that two women were killed in stampede and the source is given as PTI. The PTI reports, “May 6 (PTI) NSCN (IM) leader T Muivah today put off his visit to his ancestral village in Manipur even as three among a crowd waiting to welcome him across the border were killed in a stampede when police fired teargas shells to disperse them…Two women died in a stampede after police burst tear gas shells to disperse hundreds of T Muivah supporters”

It was clear enough those two students (Chakho S/o Neli, B.A. 2yr St. Joseph College, Bangalore and Loshou S/o of Daikho BA 2yr St. Joseph College, Jakhama, Nagaland) were gunned down in the morning by Manipur Commandos and IRB. First, so there is not any question arise about the stampede by the crowd. Secondly, it is also clear enough to identity from the dead bodies whether it is a man or a woman if the PTI reporter presents at Mao on that day. If their reporter did not present in that barbaric and inhuman killing by Manipur SF, how can they circulate their erroneous news to national dailies and TV channel like Zeenews?

Thirdly, the Times of India reports and the source is given as PTI, “Meanwhile, Manipur police opened fire and used teargas shells to quell protests by Nagas, mostly women from Ukrul district, at its side of the border at the inter-state check gate at Mao in protest against the Manipur government's decision disallowing Muivah's visit.” All Manipur United Club Organization (AMUCO) called for 48hrs total Bandh in Manipur from 5-7 May evening and none of the vehicle plies from Imphal to all the hill districts. The incident took place at Mao on 6May and there is not any chance for the Tangkhul Women to come to Mao, Senapati District for mass rally. How can they report that most of the women were from Ukhrul district? What are they trying to report by this? In Mao area we can hardly find any Tangkhul household, so question does not arise here again that the Tangkhul women were present in mass rally on that day. Muivah belongs to Ukhrul district but it does not mean that only the Tangkhuls work for the Naga political problem. This report is ambiguous in its nature and it seems like the whole report is trying to manipulate the Naga issue and try to mislead the people.

In conclusion, I would like the PTI to apologize to the Naga people for erroneous news report and trying to mislead the people.

References:
1. Times of India: Muivah puts off visit to ancestral village in Manipur: PTI, May 6, 2010, 03.05pm ISThttp://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Muivah-puts-off-visit-to-ancestral-village-in-Manipur/articleshow/5898004.cms
2. www.ndtv.com:Muivah puts off visit to ancestral village in Manipur PTI Thursday May 6, 2010
3. www.zeenews.com:http://www.zeenews.com/news624733.html Updated on Friday, May 07, 2010, 00:27
4. The Hindu: Muivah puts off Manipur visit, 3 killed in stampede
http://www.thehindu.com/2010/05/07/stories/2010050759791100.htm
5. The Statement : 6 May: Muivah puts off trip, 3 killed in stampede
http://thestatesman.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=327180&catid=36
6. Two women supporters of Muivah die in stampede (yahoo.com)
7. Two women NSCN-IM supporters die in stampede (rediff.com)

-Dr. R.B.Thohe Pou




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