05/12/2010: "Muivah warns Centre to sort out impasse Newmai News"

Muivah warns Centre to sort out impasse
Newmai News

DIMAPUR, May 11 – Breaking his silence over the Mao Gate impasse vis-à-vis his proposed visit to his native place Somdal in Ukhrul district, NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah asked New Delhi to solve the impasse at the earliest or else the Nagas will act on it. Muivah also asked the Government of India not to test the patience of the Nagas and warned that the Nagas will do what they are capable of doing. The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) on Monday virtually accused the Centre of using the Manipur Government against the Nagas. “There is an impression now among the Nagas that the Government of India is using the Manipur Government against the Nagas,” Muivah said at a press conference on the outskirts of Nagaland capital Kohima on Monday. “How can such attitude bring the Nagas closer to India?” he asked.
The NSCN-IM general secretary, who embarked on his journey to his native village Somdal in Manipur on May 5 from Dimapur, has been stranded at Viswema village in Nagaland following Manipur Government’s opposition to his visit. The NSCN-IM leader said, “There is neither any wisdom in the Government of India nor the courage to solve the impasse. The Nagas can react but we have patience”. Questioning the Government of India’s sincerity to solve the Naga political problem, the insurgent leader said, “It appears that Government of India is not committed to its own commitment that it will strive to solve the Naga issue”.
“However, we haven’t lost faith in the process and we hope that the Government of India will solve the problem. If not, then they must know what the Nagas and the NSCN can do again,” Muivah warned.
The NSCN-IM general secretary has in the meantime deferred his visit to Manipur at the advice of New Delhi.
http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=may1210/oth05
NAGA STUDENTS’ UNION DELHI
The NSUD in view of the volatile situation in Nagaland and Naga inhabited regions in Manipur would like to hold a Press Conference to give a detailed briefing to the Press consortium. The unrest due to the stationing of Manipur Commandos and the Indian Reserve Battalion in Naga inhabited areas in the guise of blocking Th. Muivah from going to his ancestral village despite the approval of the Government of India and the subsequent disallowing by the Manipur Government which led to peaceful dharnas by the Naga people leading to the random firing by the commandos and the IRB at a women’s rally resulting to the death of 2 students and injuring 100 others at Mao Gate on the 6th of May. This led to the displacing of more than 90% of the villagers with more than 1000 villagers taking refuge at Kisama in Nagaland. We would like to brief on the peaceful ways the Naga leaders have held talks with the Government Of India and the Nagas’ faith and commitment on the peaceful negotiations which has been time and again challenged by the dominant Government of Manipur with certain groups joining in creating communal disparity and continuing tension. There have been several rallies and peaceful dharnas in and around the country by the various Naga Students Unions and other organizations appealing to the Central Government for immediate attention and solution. The conference will be briefed by the Naga Member of Parliaments in Delhi, the resigned Naga MLAs from Manipur and Naga leaders on the history and the extension of the talk.
The Press Conference will be held at the Press Club of India, 1, Raisina Road from 16:00 to 17:30 hours on 13th. May.2010
We extend our sincere invitation to you and thank you for accepting and assisting us in this initiative.
Seve Vadeo
Convenor Naga Students’ Union Delhi.
Media Contacts :
Lemyao Shimray - +919310519741
Mimi Raman - +919899809150
Lemyao Shimray
‘Assaulters under payroll of Manipur government’
morungexpress
Dimapur, May 11 (MExN): The assault on the Naga leaders, Mr. Chuba Ozukum, Gen. Secy. Naga Hoho, Mr. G. Vashum, Jt. Secy. Naga Hoho and Mr. Nepuni Piku, Member, FNR on 9th May 2010 at Kohima by two mercenaries and a female companion who are under the payroll of Manipur government, is an affront and a direct challenge to the Nagas, especially at such a time when the Manipur State government and its Cabinet have openly waged war against the Nagas, stated a press note from Dg. Robert, Secretary Ministry of Home Affairs Government Peoples Republic of Nagalim.

While condemning the inhuman acts of the perpetrators while wishing the leaders a speedy recovery, the press note pointed out that the attack was a fall out of the decision of the Naga people through the Naga Hoho consultative meeting of May 8 at Kohima where the house seriously viewed the Okram Ibobi led Manipur government’s uncalled decision to bar the home visit of Mr. Th. Muivah, the Chief Negotiator of the NSCN in the Indo-Naga political talks and the subsequent imposition of 144 Cr Pc resulting to indiscriminate firing upon with automatic weapons at the unarmed civilians while carrying out democratic and peaceful protest, killing two students and injuring more than 100 by Manipur state forces. “In the first place, it was never necessary for Ibobi and his panicky Cabinet to take a hasty decision on 1st May to bar entry of Th. Muivah to his native village and other Naga areas. For persons in such a state of mind can never assess correct situation. It is pity that Ibobi and his Cabinet could not see beyond their jaundiced eyes in the matter of the rights of the Nagas”, the press note stated.

Pointing out that the Manipur government should abandon their colonialist attitude and learn some lessons from the farsightedness and deep analysis of the Manipur Students’ Association, Delhi (a students’ body of Meitei community in Delhi), the Kilo Affairs Ministry called on every right thinking citizen to appreciate the need for resolving conflict through peaceful means and assured that Nagas are totally committed to it. “However, it is strange as to why the Manipur state should strongly oppose the peaceful home visit of Th. Muivah? Why has it waged a wrong war? It will be wise on the part of Ibobi to acknowledge the historical rights and the traditional boundaries of the Nagas in the same way as we do that of the Meiteis”. By resorting to violence through brute state force, the NSCN pointed out that Ibobi was only rejuvenating the spirit of Naga nationalism to every Naga. “He must realize that his policy of hate campaign against the Nagas is counterproductive for which he is only tightening the noose on his own neck”.

On the issue of recently much talked about territory, the press note stated that no nation, state or even a village exists without a clear cut boundary. Each compound of an individual too has a boundary. Likewise, Meiteis and Nagas are no exception, it stated while reminding that they “have clear cut traditional boundaries since time immemorial”. Reaffirming that Nagas will have only what belongs to us and never even an inch from the Meiteis, it pointed out that “protection of boundaries is never an ethnic issue as Manipur state apprehensively projects”. Stating that Nagas do not bear any ill motive towards its immediate neighbor, Meiteis and others, however it was pointed out that Nagas wanted that the “legacy of conflict and fighting between the communities is not left for posterity”.

“Therefore, it is imperative to demarcate clear-cut boundary lines today but such exercise must not disturb the harmonious co-existence, inter-trade and commerce and social relations whatsoever. Therefore, all concerned must positively work towards realizing this end peacefully”, the press note went on to add.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/48601.html
NMA claims bodies; funeral today
morungexpress
KOHIMA, MAY 11 (MExN): The funeral service of the two students gunned down by Manipur police commandoes during the protest rally at Mao Gate on May 6, will be held Wednesday at 11 am at Kalinamai village, some 2km from Mao Gate. The Naga Mothers’ Association today claimed the bodies of the students lying unattended at Mao Police station since May 6.
When contacted, NMA president Abeiu Meru said that the NMA and villagers took custody of the bodies, which were later transported to Kalinamai village. Meru said that after the funeral service at Kalinamai village the bodies of the two students will be finally laid to rest at a spot between Mao Gate (Songsong village) and Tadubi. The NMA president also said that the association’s members and others from Nagaland will pass through Mao Gate to attend the funeral. The two students – Loshou and Chakho both from Kalinamai village – were killed when Manipur Police commandoes fired upon citizens protesting the imposition of 144 CrPC in the Mao area. Earlier, the NSCN/GPRN declared the two students as “martyrs.”
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48590.html

Pillai arrives in Imphal, reviews situation
Sobhapati Samom

IMPHAL, May 11 – Union Home Secretary G K Pillai has arrived here to take stock of the volatile situation arising out of NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah’s proposed trip to Manipur. Soon after his arrival by a special chartered flight this afternoon, Pillai called on state Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh at the latter’s secretariat office and had a closed door meeting. State government’s spokesperson and cabinet Minister N Biren later told mediapersons that the Union Home Secretary is here to take stock of the situation.
Pillai is accompanied by the Centre’s interloculator in the ongoing peace talks of the Government of India with NSCN-IM, R S Pandey. When asked whether there was any proposed meeting of the visiting officials with NSCN-IM leader Th Muivah, the spokesperson said that it was likely, but not confirmed. Muivah is said to be presently camping in Viswema village in Nagaland on his way to his native village Somdal in Ukhrul district of Manipur. The visit after an absence of 40 years is being opposed by the Manipur government on grounds of a possible social unrest and volatile law and order situation in the state due to his visit.
The NSCN-IM agenda of a Greater Nagalim incorporating Naga inhabited areas of Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh along with the present state of Nagaland has sparked widespread protests especially in Manipur. At least two persons were killed and around 70 injured in police action in Mao village on Manipur-Nagaland border on rallyists defying curfew to support Muivah’s visit on May 6 last. An inquiry has been ordered into the matter, according to N Biren.
http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=may1210/at07

Manipur Govt testing serenity of Nagas: YAN
morungexpress
Dimapur, May 11 (MExN): The Youth Association of Nagaland (YAN) has stated in a press note that the present standoff between the Naga people and the Manipuri Government is nothing but a diabolic policy of Ibobi Singh led Government to create chaos and to embed a sense of distrust and give birth to communal hatred and disharmony among the neighbouring states. The YAN in a press note stated: “…if in case, the Manipur Government is afraid that by letting our letting our leader Th. Muivah to visit his native village, that the cause that we Nagas are fighting for can be achieved. Then all should know that we Nagas will commit all the needful till the last drop of Naga blood to achieve the cause of the Nagas. But it is not so. Rather the present action of the Manipur Government is nothing, but testing the serenity of the Nagas and at the same time, giving a reason to the government of India as to why the draconian Armed Force Special Powers Act (AFSPA), 1958 has to be reinforced in the State of Manipur.” It also stated that many Manipuri brothers and sisters have given up their life fighting for more than a decade for the withdrawal of the Act. Thus, public of Manipur should also understand that they are being held at ransom by their own government.

Meanwhile, it has warned that if any harm is inflicted on the Nagas residing in Manipur, the action should be considered as an attack on the Naga Nation and so should give a befitting response. “…every Naga should be ready for any outcome. And if the Manipur Government wants war, we should be ready to give them one. And if they want peace, we shall be more than happy to give them peace,” it added. Further, it stated that everyone should understand that the “world belongs not to one person, race or religion but to all. So let us learn to respect the rights of one another and together rebuild the world that we may all share the peace”.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/48604.html

Magisterial probe for Mao incident
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 11 2010: The State Cabinet has decided to order an investigation into the May 6 clash between police and protestors at near Mao Gate during which two persons were killed and many others injured.
A statement issued by the Home Department today said that the State Government has decided to institute a Magisterial probe into the May 6 incident at Mao Gate. The State Government has also approved the payment of ex-gratia and granting financial assistance to the injured people according to the norms of the State Government, said a press release issued by the State Home Department today. With a view to ease tension in the border area, the Government has also decided to deploy additional Central forces at Mao while appealing to all who have fled their homesteads to return.

Speaking to newspersons soon after a Cabinet meeting presided by the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, SPF spokesman and IFC Minister N Biren said the Home Department has been intimated to initiate an 'appropriate probe' into the incident. He said the Cabinet decision was based on report submitted by the Chief Secretary DS Poonia and GOC 57 Mountain Division DS Hooda who visited Mao yesterday to take stock of the prevailing situation. Among others, the Cabinet also decided to extend ex-gratia to families of the two persons who were killed in police firing as well as financial assistance to the injured as per Government norm, informed Biren while asserting that additional central security forces would be deployed in Mao area.

Dismissing as wild speculation that several residents have fled Mao and are staying at Kohima, the Government spokesman said there is no official information as yet. Stating that in case the report is true, he on behalf of the SPF Government appealed to Mao villagers to return home for the State authorities are committed to ensure safety of the people.

Conceding that there is problem of shortage of essential commodities and petroleum products in the State, Biren appealed to organisations enforcing economic blockade along the national highways against the ensuing district council elections to call off the agitation in the interest of the general public. The Minister iterated that the Government is most willing to hold talks and iron out any misunderstanding with the blockade sponsors. Regarding ongoing construction works of JNIMS, he informed that new office building of the Imphal East district's Deputy Commissioner would be attached to the JNIMS as Medical Council of India's rule specifies that JNIMS complex should be in compact form. Biren pointed out that as JNIMS is being established to produce qualified medical personnel in the region relevant infrastructure should commensurate directives of the MCI. He further ruled out possibility of oil tankers passing through NH-53 having to equally distribute or off-load petrol-diesel enroute to Imphal for bridges along the Imphal-Jiribam stretch of the highway is capable of holding 24-25 tonnes of load.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=16&src=120510

Horns locked over Muivah's visit
State Govt blunts Delhi's wish for go ahead nod
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 11 2010: As the crisis and apprehension resulting from NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Muivah’s proposed visit to Manipur still hanging heavy in the air, Union Home Secretary GK Pillai and Indo-Naga peace talk interlocutor RS Pandey arrived on a special flight at Imphal to-day and sought suggestions from the State Govt to work out a settlement. Stating that the Home Secretary's visit to the State was to take stock of the prevailing situation in Manipur, SPF spokesperson N Biren informed media persons that the State Govt clearly spelt out its stance before the Home Secretary on the rebel leader's proposed visit to Manipur.
After landing at Imphal at about 3 pm, GK Pillai and RS Pandey met the Chief Minister and his Council of Ministers including Law Minister Th Debendra, Po-wer Minister Phungzathang Tonsing, PHE Minister TN Haokip and Health Minister Ph Parijat. During the meeting, the Home Secretary asked the State Ministers to give their suggestions on how to end the existing crisis. On their part, the Central officials evinced their desire to allow entry of Muivah to Manipur in order to end the impasse and restore normalcy. However the State Government categorically stated that they would not budge from their resolution adopted earlier, conveyed a well placed source.
Notably, the State Government had already turned down the Centre's suggestion to fly Muivah to Ukhrul by a helicopter. Peace talk interlocutor RS Pandey also briefed the Chief Minister about the continuing political dialogue with the NSCN (IM). Pandey elaborated on the positive effects of the peace talk on Manipur. Pandey stated that carrying on the peace talk would reduce subversive activities like extortions, threats, abductions etc. The Home Secretary al-so put forth the Centre's commitment to safeguard the territory of Manipur. The Home Secretary and the interlocutor also held meetings with the Chief Secretary, DGP, Commissioner (Home), GOC 57 Mountain Division and IG of CRPF and commander of 10 AR based at Ukhrul.
Meanwhile, it has been decided to deploy CRPF at Mao from tomorrow. The meeting also discussed about persuading Muivah to go back from Viswema, Nagaland as well as to lift the economic blockade and address the shortages being encountered in Manipur. GK Pillai and RS Pandey who are putting up the night at Raj Bhavan would leave for Kohima at 8 am tomorrow in a helicopter. The State Govt's is standing firmly on its stance but the Centre's decision depends on central leaders, SPF spokesperson Biren said.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=13&src=120510

Solve the issue before great ethnic divide in region: HRA
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 11 2010: The situation in Manipur is extremely volatile and with the slightest provocation, an internal conflict may breakout at any time, the Human Right Alert warned in a statement lamenting that so far the state or the Union government has taken up any action to prevent the impending danger. Keeping the view that the inaction on the part of the government, adopting wait and watch strategy to the plight of the civilians and the use of force against the protestors deliberate to sharpen ethnic divide and foment civil strife, the statement signed by its convener, Basantakumar Warepa further cautioned that "if this happens it could spread to a large area and destabilize the whole region"
The ongoing economic blockade enforced by the All Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM) and others in the state since April 2010 has pushed the people in the state to the verge of existence. The prolong blockade on the national highways has resulted in acute shortage of food, medicine and other essential commodities in the state. The ANSAM strike in protest against the holding of elections to the Autonomous District Council in hill districts of Manipur has added another woe to the people of the state who are marred with extreme forms of violence ranging from abduction to murder committed by the state and non-state actors, Basantakumar observed. The holding of elections to the ADC in hill districts of Manipur is considered to be a threat on the claim for "Greater Nagaland" also known as "Nagalim" a separate independent status within India merging the neighbouring states into one entity by the Naga organisations.
Amidst the agitations against the holding of election was at its high peak, the NSCN general secretary, Th Muivah was granted permission to visit to Manipur by the Union government which resulted to rise up a tension among the different communities, both from supporters and oppositions. In the resultant scuffle of state administration increased security deployment in the border town of Mao to stop Muivah from entering the state, two protestors supporting Muivah's vsit were shot dead and injured to several others and hospitalized in the police action. "This triggered off further protest and arson in some hill districts. Naga Students' Federation (NSF and other Naga groups of Nagaland are extending support to these protestors," HRA observed.
Manipur government is opposing the visit of Muivah in the state with the permission of the Union government on the ground that the visit would escalate prevailing tensions between communities. On the other hand, the prices of food grains ad other household supplies like rice, kerosene and cooking gas have escalated to such a level that the ordinary people cannot afford to buy any more. Vehicles, including the inter-state and inter-district transport, are off the road as the fuel refilling stations remained close for weeks.
The situation is extremely volatile as an internal conflict may breakout that would spread to a large area and destabilize the whole region, the rights body warned lamenting that either the state nor the Union Government has taken up any action to prevent the impending danger.
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=11..120510.may10

Naga women march for peace in Delhi
Source: The Sangai Express / Ninglun Hanghal

New Delhi, May 11 2010: Naga women in traditional wear took out a peaceful march in the capital today. Walking in silence the women held placards with the words inscribed, 'We have lost two more sons', 'We are Naga women seeking justice and peace', '63 years is enough' etc. The rally culminated in Parliament Street, where the women prayed for the two boys (L) Loshou (23) and (L) Chakho (21) who succumbed to their injuries during the May 6 incident at Mao. Offering flowers and lighting candles for the two departed souls followed. An elder woman, a representative of the Naga mothers prayed for peace and released a symbolic 'dove". Group song and choirs from youth were also presented at the Parliament Street sit-in-demonstration. A memorandum was later submitted to Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the UPA, but an appointment sought by the Naga women was deferred due to the hectic schedule of Sonia Gandhi. In the memorandum submitted to Sonia Gandhi, the Naga women sought for an immediate intervention in easing the plight of the people and help restore normalcy in the region, stating that presently it is spiralling out of control.

The other points mentioned in the memorandum include, a Judiciary Inquiry to the May 6 incident at Mao Gate, immediate revocation of the imposition of CrPC section 144 and withdrawal of IRBs and police commandos from the Naga areas so that people can safely return home. The Naga women further demanded safe passage for Th Muivah to resume his onward journey to his native village. "He (Muivah) had already embarked on the journey and how can he be stopped on the way? “asked one of the women rallyists. "Why should he be stopped from going home, since the Home Ministry had already given the go ahead signal" said another rallyist.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=24&src=120510
Naga women for peace, justice
morungexpress
Dimapur, May 11 (MExN): More than 300 Naga women clad in colorful traditional attires, in a march for ‘Justice and Peace’ expressed deepest condolence to the family and friends of Loshuo (23) and Chakho (21). The women marched from Mandi house with placards; “63 years is enough! stop state atrocities on our people!”, “We are marching for Justice and Peace”, “We have lost two more sons”, “We long for Freedom and Peace”, “Imagine no Borders”, “What is so great about a country that cannot honor its commitment”. The women sought for an immediate intervention of Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, United Progressive Alliance in easing the plight of the people and help restore normalcy in the region which at the moment threatens to spiral out of control, stated a press note issued from Delhi by the organizers. A memorandum was also submitted demanding the constitution of a judicial enquiry to the May 6 incident at Mao gate; immediate revocation of the imposition of CrPC Section 144 and withdrawal of IRBs and police commandoes from the Naga areas so that people can safely return home; safe passage to Th. Muivah to resume his onward journey to his village.
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48587.html

Pillai, Pandey visit state, take stock of situation
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 11 2010: Union Home Secretary, GK Pillai and GOI's interlocutor of peace talks with the NSCN-IM, RS Pandey arrived in Imphal today and held a meeting with the Chief Minister, O Ibobi along with some senior Cabinet Ministers this late evening and discussed the sensitive issue of Muivah's visit to the state. The two top officials of the Central government arrived here at about 3 pm. As soon as they reached Imphal, they called on the Chief Minister, O Ibobi and discussed with them the prevailing situation in the state arising out of the proposed visit of NSCN-IM leader, Th Muivah to the state.

Pillai and Pandey, who are scheduled to fly to Kohima tomorrow, are staying at the Raj Bhavan here. They are expected to hold discussions with the leaders of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) on arrival at Kohima. They are likely to call on the Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio and also meet leaders of the Naga Hoho and other Naga frontal organisations of NSCN-IM before leaving for New Delhi by the same special aircraft.

Apart from discussing the sensitive issue of Muivah's visit to Manipur, which the Centre is believed to be pressing the Manipur government to allow, the Home Secretary also discussed the impact of the almost a month-long indefinite economic blockade on the National Highways called by ANSAM and other organisations demanding nullification of the decision of the Manipur government to hold elections to the Autonomous District Councils in the hill districts of Manipur.

The blockade has been further compounded after May 6 incident when two Mao youths were killed and several others hurt in a scuffle between NSNC (IM) supporters and security forces at Mao check gate on the Manipur-Nagaland border. NCSN (IM) leader, Th Muivah was scheduled to visit Naga inhabited areas in Manipur including his birth-place Somdal in Ukhrul district on that day, but was denied permission by the state government, citing law and order concerns, though the Centre had cleared Muivah's visit. Some senior ministers of the SPF government and top officials of the state government took part in today's meeting with the Union Home Secretary, GK Pillai and RS Pandey, the source said. What exactly transpired at the meeting could not be ascertained from the source.

However, the source confirmed that Pillai and Pandey assessed the ground situation of the state and the government's decision barring Muivah's entry in the state. Meanwhile, a meeting of the Combined Headquarters chaired by the Chief Minister at his official bungalow attended by top brass of the Central security establishments. State Chief Secretary, DS Poonia, GOC of 57 Mountain Division, Maj Gen DS Hooda, IG AR (South), Maj Gen CA Krishnan, DGP Manipur, Y Joykumar, etc were among those who attended the meeting.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=1&src=120510

Rio asks Centre to spell out its stand on Muivah
Source: The Sangai Express / PTI
Kohima, May 11 2010: The Nagaland Government has written to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that the Centre spell out its position on the visit of NSCN(IM) leader Thuingaleng Muivah to his ancestral village in Manipur's Ukhrul district. With Muivah camping at Visema village since May 5, after the Manipur Government prevented him from entering the State, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has written to Singh following an emergency Cabinet meeting yesterday. The State Government suggested that an official statement be issued by the Centre explaining its position and how the situation has built up since Muivah's programme was chalked up with its prior approval. The Manipur Govt, which is opposed to the NSCN(IM) leader's visit, has clamped prohibitory orders and deployed police at the Mao check gate to prevent his entry.
The Manipur Government has held that Muivah's visit could disturb communal harmony as the NSCN(IM) has been demanding that Naga-inhabited areas in adjoining States be integrated under its concept of 'Greater Nagaland'. The Government has also pointed out that Muivah was an insurgent leader with many criminal cases pending against him in Manipur. "The present situation has been created, in the first place, by the unwarranted and unjustified decision of the Manipur Government to deny Muivah his birthright of visiting his native village in Ukhrul district for a peaceful purpose of meeting people of his own tribe after decades of absence," Rio said while blaming the Manipur Government for the current situation.

He also pointed out that Muivah's trip had been planned with the prior approval of the Govt following which the Ministry of Home Affairs had instructed both the Nagaland and Manipur Govts to make arrangements, including security cover, for a week's visit. The Chief Minister pointed to the "unwarranted action" by Manipur armed police in opening fire on Naga demonstrators on May 6, which had resulted in the death of two Naga youths and injuries to about 100 innocent Nagas.

The Manipur Govt, however, had said that three persons had been killed in a stampede when police fired teargas shells to disperse those waiting to welcome Muivah across the border. "Their (police forces) follow-up acts of intimidations and torture of innocent civilians has led to the exodus of about 1,000 Nagas from Mao area into the neighbouring Naga villages of Nagaland," Rio said in his letter. Rio claimed that the volatile situation had the potential of spreading to other areas of Nagaland and Manipur and jeopardise interState relation between the two neighbouring States, and also the ongoing Naga peace talks. The letter gave a four-point suggestion to the Centre.
The Centre should ensure that Manipur armed police be withdrawn from Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur, particularly in the sensitive areas along NH-39, and central paramilitary forces be deployed to restore confidence of the people. A high-level Central team should urgently visit the affected area to assess the situation and make recommendations for resolving the problem. The Centre must prevail upon the Manipur Govt to urgently take steps to rehabilitate displaced Nagas and make arrangement for their safe return, the letter added.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=25&src=120510
NMA claims bodies; funeral today
morungexpress
KOHIMA, MAY 11 (MExN): The funeral service of the two students gunned down by Manipur police commandoes during the protest rally at Mao Gate on May 6, will be held Wednesday at 11 am at Kalinamai village, some 2km from Mao Gate. The Naga Mothers’ Association today claimed the bodies of the students lying unattended at Mao Police station since May 6. When contacted, NMA president Abeiu Meru said that the NMA and villagers took custody of the bodies, which were later transported to Kalinamai village. Meru said that after the funeral service at Kalinamai village the bodies of the two students will be finally laid to rest at a spot between Mao Gate (Songsong village) and Tadubi. The NMA president also said that the association’s members and others from Nagaland will pass through Mao Gate to attend the funeral. The two students – Loshou and Chakho both from Kalinamai village – were killed when Manipur Police commandoes fired upon citizens protesting the imposition of 144 CrPC in the Mao area. Earlier, the NSCN/GPRN declared the two students as “martyrs.”
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48590.html

Dead bodies of two youths taken away
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 11 2010: The dead bodies of two youths died in the scuffle at Mao gate on last Thursday have been finally claimed by the respective families backed by Naga Mother Association today. The last rites will be performed tomorrow at their native village. The dead bodies of two youths, N Chakhao Mao (20) on son of late Nele of Kalinamei village and Loshuwo Mao (20) son of late Dikho Mao of the same village were taken back for last rites by the families from the police station at about 10.30 am. The funeral of the dead bodies will be performed with customary rites tomorrow which include gun salutes. Police reportedly ordered the villagers not to fire more than two rounds each.

The dead bodies were taken as per decision of the Naga Mother Association in a meeting held yesterday that discussed on the matter of receive of the dead bodies. On what condition, the association decided to take back the bodies could not be confirmed. Curfew was also relaxed from 6 am to 6 pm today in Mao town like in the previous days. No untoward incident reported during the curfew relaxation hour. During the day time, shops and other establishments in the border town were opened.

Meanwhile, security forces are facing a hard time in clearing boulders and logs on the stretch of the NH-39 from Senapati to Maram piled up by protestors demanding withdrawal of beefing up security forces at Mao gate and lifting of prohibitory orders in Mao town. Security forces from Imphal side are making hectic effort to clear the road by taking out the innumerable obstructions installed by the protestors in the aftermath of May 6 violence incident at Mao gate with the intention of prevailing sending reinforcement to the area from Imphal side.

On the first day yesterday, the road from Mayangkhang (3 km from Kangpokpi towards Senapati) to Senapati Bazar was cleared by using bull dozers and JCP machines. Stretch of the Imphal-Mao section of the NH-39 has been totally blocked by piling up stones and stretching woods at various places across the road starting from Tumuyon Khullen some 3 kilometer towards Senapati from Kangpokpi.
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Invalid mom mourns, funeral service today
NISHIT DHOLABHAI
Kalinamei (Manipur), May 11: Loshou Daikho’s death has two distinct tales — a poignant personal one and another of a political “martyr” that threatens to shake up both Nagaland and Manipur. He and fellow student activist Chakho Neli, both 20years old, were killed in police firing on May 6 at Mao Gate, 103km from Imphal. They were protesting against chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh’s decision not to allow NSCN (Isak-Muivah) leader Thuingaleng Muivah from visiting the state’s Ukhrul district.
As Adaho, Loshuo’s mother, sat on a torn sheet outside her hut, legs outstretched and hands folded in prayer, women wept and men turned away, wiping their eyes. “Good lord, bless me so that I can move my limbs to eat, now that he is gone,” Adaho prayed in native tongue, Mao. In the village, the mood was building up for tomorrow’s funeral service. Loshou’s neighbour and Mao Mothers’ Association member Lolia Lucy said: “Both Loshou and Chakho were so very nice children. God has chosen the best.” Loshou’s friend and his junior, Athisho Liriite, remembered his friend as one who would pep up the circle of friends in times of trouble and lived without a vice. Adaho remained at home while near the village community hall, women wailed in front of the two coffins while men fired muzzle-loading guns for the “martyrs”.
Chakho’s mother, Sokha, was inconsolable as she thumped the coffins while his sister fainted and was carried to a nearby house up the slope. The bodies of the boys were accepted by the Naga Mothers’ Association, an NGO, on behalf of the families and later handed over to their kin. Tomorrow, as sadness spreads and threatens to fan into political anger, it could work to Ibobi Singh’s disadvantage and Muivah may gain the political edge. The scenario is one that threatens to polarise the divided society of the hills and the plains. “The economic blockade, too, is the imaginary fear of the Manipur government. It is the police who have blocked the highway. We have never disallowed medicines and essentials for people in the valley,” Lucy said. If Ibobi Singh chose not to send anyone to speak to the families or even announce an ex gratia for the next of kin of the deceased then he has indicated they are not his people, residents said.
The Nagaland Assembly has thrice resolved to approve the integration of Naga areas of Manipur into Nagaland, if the people so wish. This was mentioned in a clause of the 16-point agreement that led to statehood for Nagaland.
At Mao Gate, the site for the epitaphs is being decided. “Most probably it will be by the side of National Highway 39,” a student activist said. Preparations were on at the Nagaland-Manipur boundary for the funeral service tomorrow to have VVIPs from Nagaland and tribal leaders from Manipur attend.
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1100512/jsp/northeast/story_12437600.jsp
Joint relief effort
morungexpress
Kisama | May 11
In a gesture displaying the underlying brotherhood of Nagas, irrespective of political boundaries, the Joint Working Group of the three Naga political parties - NNC/FGN, GPRN/NSCN and NSCN/GPRN - distributed relief materials to the displaced Mao villagers taking shelter at Kisama Heritage village. Accompanied by members of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), the JWG members including Education kilonser Vikiye Sumi and secretary, steering committee secretariat, Imcha Longkumer of the NSCN/GPRN, Alee kilonser Alezo Venuh and MIP kilonser Meren Nokpu of GPRN/NSCN and Chaplee kilonser Peshou Lam and Alee kilonser P Puthai of NNC/FGN also conveyed solidarity to the displaced villagers.
“Your suffering is not for your own selves, but for Nagas as a whole. Be strong of heart as you are suffering for sake of all Nagas and we are all behind you,” said FGN kilonser Peshou Lam. He also said that this is not the first time that Nagas have suffered for the sake of Nagahood nor will it be the last. “Today it is the South, tomorrow trouble may brew in the East,” Peshou said. The FGN kilonser also requested the public in general to pray for the JWG so that the efforts of FNR to reconcile the political groups fructify. Greeting the villagers on behalf of the GPRN/NSCN chairman and general secretary, kilonser Alezo Venuh conveyed sympathy and solidarity to the displaced villagers. While stating that Naga history is replete with suffering and persecution, he however assured that no force can divide Nagas. NSCN/GPRN kilonser Vikiye said that the present plight of the displaced villagers is a part of Naga history and that Naga people will continue to suffer till their political aspiration is achieved. Extending solidarity to the villagers, mostly women and children, he said, “We will always be ahead of you and behind you. We will never abandon you but always support you.” He also reminded that Naga politics or their future is not in the hands of the Manipur government or Meiteis. The JWG members donated rice (75 bags), potato (5 bags), dal (3 bags), tea leaf (6 cartons) and powder milk (4 cartons) to the relief committee. Earlier, FNR convenor Rev. Dr. Wati Aier explained in brief the birth of the forum and its mission to reconcile and unite the Naga political parties. He also introduced the JWG members to the displaced villagers. The eldest member of FNR, Rev. Dr. VK Nuh prayed for the villagers and Mao Union Kohima president Lokho proposed vote of thanks.
Unity in Purpose
In an honest effort to explore pragmatic means to strengthen and realize genuine reconciliation, the members of the Joint Working Group met today and jointly resolved:
1) To condemn in the strongest terms the physical and verbal assault on civil society leaders on May 9, 2010 at Kohima;
2) To co-operate in identifying, apprehending and to bring to justice those responsible for the assault, and not to defend or harbor the perpetrators;
3) To remain vigilant against all those who seek to undermine and hamper the reconciliation process; and
4) Sensing the present crisis confronting the Nagas, we recognize the urgency to be reconciled with one another.

Vikiye Sumi Peshou Lam Meren-Nokpu
Kilonser Kilonser Kilonser
NSCN/GPRN NNC/FGN GPRN/NSCN
Member Member Member
Joint Working Group Joint Working Group Joint Working Group
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48589.html
The Mao tragedy & Ibobi’s responsibility
Mr. Turangse
The killing of two students at Mao-Gate stirring up the mob-violence was very unfortunate things adding another security excesses in the State of Manipur. In the afternoon of 6th May while the Naga civilians were peacefully carrying out the peace rally for safe passage of Th.Muivah, the Ato Kilonser of NSCN (IM) to his ancestral home Somdal, Ukhrul. The combing operation that followed after the rally beaten up many youths and civilians leaving the civilians to flee from their homes speak of ‘militarization’ ‘oppression’ and ‘suppression’ of peace loving citizens of Naga people in Mao Area, Senapati District, Manipur. The picture captured by the Associated Free Press (AFP) published in Morung Express depicted the intensity of the situation at Mao area. In the picture a civilian was rounded up by 6(six) State Security Forces pointing guns and the two civilians fearfully sitting on ground as one civilian was crying. This picture itself shows the terror reigning in Mao area aftermath the standoff since 2nd May 2010.

It is the Government of Manipur led by Okram Ibobi Singh, Chief Minister who sowed the seed of violence, killing, reign of terror, human rights violation, creating unrest in the Mao area and Senapati District and elsewhere in the Naga Hill districts of Manipur. Ibobi’s stand and actions on Mao standoff goes beyond the capacity of Chief Minister. As the Chief Minister he should consider the two sides of an issue before passing such immature Cabinet’s decision to disallow Th.Muivah to enter his homeland. This indicates, the aspiration of the Nagas is not taken into account. Holding the chair of Chief Ministership does not mean and guarantee one to ‘misuse’ and ‘abuse’ power for personal gain or for majority community cause to which he/she belongs to. It is a sacred position to do justice to every section of the people. However, Ibobi badly failed on this front and did ‘misused’ and ‘abused’ his position and power to flare up the Mao Tragedy on 6th May killing two budding students and injuring more than 80, suppressing the peace loving citizens’ rights(who are minority), deployment of large numbers of State Security Forces violating human rights, violation of press freedom banning fair and free coverage on the situation, denial of students goodwill mission to pass through, violation of educational rights for the school/college going students in Mao area due to curfew, looting of civilian houses by the State Security forces, detaining of free movement of people from Nagaland to Manipur vice versa et al. The Ibobi led cabinet decision’s fuel up the communal tension between the Meiteis and Nagas. All these abuses and misuses of power led to ‘crime against humanity.’

To this end, the India Civil society organizations demand for judicial probe into the firing of Manipur police forces that left two students dead and about hundred injured at Mao Gate, Nagaland-Manipur is a right step to bring justice into the tragedy. This needs a serious attention from the Human Rights Watch Dogs within the country and outside the country.
The Naga Youth Front will stand against any oppression and suppression of Nagas’ rights and human rights violations and if the Government of Manipur and India failed to respond to the charter of demands of Naga Civil Organisations, the Front shall take up all necessary measures and actions towards protecting the inherent rights of the Nagas in Manipur and elsewhere of Naga nation. To which any consequences follow, the Government of Manipur will be accountable and held responsible. Naga Youth Front (It is a Youth Led social organization committed to Naga Indigenous People’s rights founded since 2003 to back any Naga Civil Society standing and voicing for Naga’s rights be it cultural, traditional, political and economical et al. The Front will stand against human rights violation, political oppression, suppression in any forms and any initiatives or movements that threatened the existence of Naga as a people and nation.)
Convener, Mr. Turangse, Tahamzam (Senapati)
http://www.morungexpress.com/public_discourse/48578.html

What Manipur should ask Centre?
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 11 2010: The government of Manipur should ask the Union Government of India to give in writing that Manipur's territorial boundary will not be changed at all under any circumstances, and if the Centre can give the assurance in writing, then the Government of Manipur and also the people of the state should not have any reason to object to NSCN-IM leader Th Muivah visiting his ancestral village, Somdal in Ukhrul district, many observers suggested. They said, the State Government should inform the Union Home Secretary, GK Pillai and the Centre's interlocutor, RS Pandey that even if the State Government agrees to let Muivah visit Manipur, it should be done only when complete normalcy returns to the state.

Moreover, if Muivah is to visit Manipur, he should visit only his ancestral village, Somdal in Ukhrul district and no other place. Even there, he should not be allowed to stay longer than a few hours, may be two or three hours. He should not attend any other meeting or programmes. If the Centre agrees to these, the State Government and the people of Manipur have no reason to block him from coming to the state, the observers asserted.
http://e-pao.net/epRelatedNews.asp?heading=2&src=120510

BJP committee to visit Manipur
NEW DELHI, MAY 11 (IANS):

A three-member Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) committee will visit the Manipur capital Imphal this week to report on the situation following the economic blockade enforced by Naga groups. The committee, appointed by BJP president Nitin Gadkari, comprises Prakash Javadekar, Tarun Vijay and party MP Bijoya Chakravarty.

A BJP statement said the committee will discuss the situation with civil society activists, party workers and police and government officials. The delegation will return May 14 and give its report to Gadkari.

The delegation will also meet Home Minister P. Chidambaram before submitting its report. “The permission given by central government to Naga leader Thuingaleng Muivah to visit his hometown in Manipur has already resulted in two deaths and a bandh (strike). Corruption of Ibobi (Singh) government has crossed all limits. Misuse of security forces resulting in extortion and fake encounters has infuriated people in Manipur,” the BJP said.

It added that many militant outfits were training their cadres and taking shelter in Bangladesh. The party said some outfits had given notice to all non-Manipuri people to leave the state by May 31. Unless the government acts decisively, the situation would spill out of hand, the statement added. Naga tribal groups have enforced an indefinite economic blockade for the past one week against the Manipur government’s decision not to allow separatist Muivah to visit his birthplace in a Manipuri village.
http://www.nagalandpost.com/ShowStory.aspx?npoststoryiden=UzEwMjU3MDc%3d-U43CSj3t1Mg%3d

PC rushes envoys to Manipur
Naga groups visit Kisama
H. CHISHI
VOICES FROM ACROSS THE GREAT DIVIDE
Kohima, May 11: Senior functionaries of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation and three Naga rebel groups today visited displaced Nagas of Manipur taking shelter at Kisama, a heritage village in Nagaland, 15km from here.
The Joint Working Group, comprising members of FNR, the Isak-Muivah and Khaplang factions of the NSCN and the Naga National Council (Singyu), distributed rice and other relief materials among the displaced people.
Around 500 Nagas from Mao town, an entry point to Manipur, and its adjoining villages had fled to Nagaland after the May 6 crackdown on demonstrators protesting against Manipur’s decision not to allow NSCN (I-M) general secretary Th. Muivah to enter the state. Two students were killed in the police action and around 80 injured. “We donated some rice and relief materials to the displaced people,” Vikiye Awomi, a senior kilonser (minister) of the NSCN (I-M), said.
Protests continued in Nagaland against Sunday’s attack on two members of Naga Hoho and one of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation here by unknown armed cadres. The Ao Senden (hoho), the apex organisation of the Aos, organised a rally in Mokokchung town, about 150km from here, in protest against the attacks. The Isak-Muivah and Khaplang groups also condemned the assault.
Chief minister Neiphiu Rio said the situation would deteriorate if the Centre did not intervene immediately.
NSCN-K commander arrives: The commander-in-chief of the NSCN (Khaplang), “general” Khole, arrived at the Khehoi designated camp near Dimapur this evening. The NSCN (K) sources said their commander had come from his hideout in Myanmar and would be staying at Khehoi for a few days and meet top functionaries of the group. He is also expected to meet representatives of Naga organisations who are spearheading the peace and reconciliation movement.

Nagalim.NL News

05/12/2010: "Muivah warns Centre to sort out impasse Newmai News"