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05/17/2010: "Return of the rebel: Brinkmanship game on between Ibobi Singh, Muivah Shishir Gupta Indian Express NSCN(IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah are playing a game of political brinkmanship over the Greater Nagalim issue with the Congress high command signalling to the state government to keep hands off and let it play out till the June 2 district council elections."

Return of the rebel: Brinkmanship game on between Ibobi Singh, Muivah Shishir Gupta Indian Express
NSCN(IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah are playing a game of political brinkmanship over the Greater Nagalim issue with the Congress high command signalling to the state government to keep hands off and let it play out till the June 2 district council elections.

The irony is that with Metei nationalism running high over the proposed visit of Muivah to his village, Somdel in Tangkhul district of Manipur, the local residents do not seem to mind paying Rs 1,400 for one kg sugar, standing in a queue for three hours to get petrol at Rs 150-200 per litre as the NSCN(IM) cadres block National Highways 53 and 39. As of now, the Centre is sending foodstuff through National Highway 109 to keep the situation under control. The latest is that while food stock in Imphal Valley is under control, there’s a huge shortage in the hill districts.
Ibobi Singh has convinced the Congress high command that his government will fall if Muivah is even directly air-lifted to Somdel in a helicopter and returned to Nagaland without addressing a political rally. He needs the Centre to hold his hand till the district council election process is over on May 23 and June 2.
Backed by money power and caring two hoots about the siege of the state by the Naga insurgent group, Ibobi has made his mind known to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Congress high command that he does not concur with the internal security establishment view that Muivah should be allowed to go to Somdel. As Muivah has not visited Somdel even once during the past 47 years, a section in the government believes that this will defuse the law and order situation and cool down tempers.
The attitude of Muivah is no different. The NSCN(IM) general secretary and his Tangkhul Naga supporters know that they have overstayed their welcome at Viswema, a predominantly Angami tribal village located 20 km off Kohima. Muivah has made a political point with his supporters by intending to go to Somdel to strengthen his demand for Nagalim, which includes hill districts of Manipur.
Both the principal adversaries and the Centre have little time for the BJP-backed Democratic Alliance Government of Neiphiu Rio, who has been crying for intervention of the UPA government to defuse the crisis.
But one thing is clear that if the siege of Manipur goes on for a longer period of time, it would mean brownie points for Muivah and a bigger headache for the Centre, particularly for Naga interlocutor Raghav Sharan Pandey.
Southern Nagas affirm rights; GoI urged to act morungexpress
Dimapur, May 16 (MExN): The frontal organizations representing the Nagas in the present State of Manipur has made the latest declaration that the “Nagas in south Nagaland (Nagas in present state of Manipur) are steadfast and committed towards peaceful political solution and the integration of all Naga areas” and as such urged the Government of India to demonstrate its sincerity and respect for the “Unique history and situation of the Nagas”.
In this regard, the declaration also stated that it will “sever all relationship with the Manipur State Government and all the dominant organizations and individuals who collude with it, until our history and situation are acknowledged and accorded due respect”. “We shall offer our all for the realization of an honourable political settlement and for the integration of all Naga areas whereby we will live as a people under one political roof, free from domination and exploitation”, stated a joint press declaration issued by Samson Remei President, United Naga Council; Grace Shatsang, President, Naga Women’s Union, Manipur; Adani David Mao, President, All Naga Students’ Association Manipur and Phamhring Sengul Convenor, Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Right.
It was informed that the declaration was adopted in the 15th May, 2010 Consultative Meeting of Naga Frontal Organisations, former parliamentarians, church leaders, intellectuals, professionals, academicians and public leaders which was held at Tahamzan (Senapati) under the aegis of the United Naga Council and the hospitality of the Naga Peoples’ Organisation. The Consultative meeting also declared that peaceful political solution and integration of all Naga areas through the removal of all artificial state boundaries is the only way to live with dignity and protect our existence as a people.
The declaration also pointed out that the “aspiration and commitment of the Nagas, divided by artificial states boundaries have been for all time for peaceful political approach to the unresolved political issue with India and Burma” and that towards this end, the Nagas have consistently expressed their objectives by initiating democratic political steps through the memorandum submitted to the Simon Commission(1929), declaration of independence (August 14, 1947), plebiscite(1951), and boycott of the Indian general election (1952 and 1957).
“While, the remedial initiative were peaceful, the concerned States had invariably opted for military solution leading to serious case of human rights violation and genocide of the Naga peoples under the pretext of Internal law and Order problem”, the declaration stated. It also termed as “the meticulously calculated military crackdown to undermine the rights of the Nagas by the Manipur State Government under the leadership of Ibobi Singh, with the unprovoked attack on the innocent Naga peace - marchers on the 6th May, 2010 at Mao Gate in Senapati district of present State of Manipur, killing two innocent students in cold blood, injuring hundreds and displacing thousands of Naga villagers.
The Naga civil societies as such condemned the Manipur state Cabinet’s policy to bar Mr. Th. Muivah, General Secretary of NSCN from visiting his native village and other Naga areas and the unilateral backtracking of the Government of India (GOI) from its commitment. IT also condemned the militarization and the brutal actions of the Manipur State Security Forces meted out to the Naga public.
The joint declaration also expressed appreciation to the Naga civil societies all over the Naga homeland, the conscientious individuals and civil societies from India and elsewhere for their solidarity and their commitment for the protection and respect of human rights. The declaration also appealed to all neighbouring tribal communities and other conscientious communities to take their own decisive political position that will ensure their freedom and their existence as peoples.
“We declare that we are resolute and will embark on a political journey to consolidate the Indo-Naga political dialogue that must culminate in an honourable and peaceful political solution that respects the inherent rights of the Nagas, which includes our right to live together under one political roof by the removal of all artificial states boundaries”, it stated while informing that “on this day, the 15th of May 2010, we declare our commitment to protect the rights and existence of the Nagas and that we shall initiate steps for the fulfillment of our objectives”.
Delhi sleeps while Manipur burns Rediff Ners
May 17, 2010 19:48 IST

Manipur is on fire today. Terrorist organisations demand secession from India [ Images ], local tribal conflicts, and a total collapse of the civil administration has turned the state into a virtual hell. Yet Delhi [ Images ] does not seem to care, notes Tarun Vijay.
Manipur must be amongst the most beautiful states of India with green hills, flowery valleys and vast clean water lakes mesmerising the viewer and in many ways dwarfing Switzerland's [ Images ] over-stated panorama.
The state is on fire today. Terrorist organisations demand secession from India, local tribal conflicts and a total collapse of the civil administration has turned this state into a virtual hell otherwise famed for its Radha Krishna dance the world over and a stunningly sharp martial arts said to be the predecessor of karate.
A few facts first.
1. Since January 16, 80,000 state government employees have been on a 'pen down' strike demanding implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission's recommendations with retrospective effect. This has paralysed the government machinery, but Chief Minister Ibobi Singh has refused to talk to the striking employees.
2. A stifling blockade on National Highway-39 and a partial blockade on NH-53 has caused an unbelievable scarcity of oil, food and medicines. Buses and trucks are given 40 litres of petrol/diesel per day through a self-imposed rationing system. Diesel and petrol are being sold at exorbitant rates in the black market.
Bus fares have increased two to three times (the Imphal to Churachand Pur bus fare has gone up to Rs 150 from Rs 40 earlier).
3. The only one major government hospital is not getting oxygen cylinders, hence it has stopped operating upon patients. With a few oxygen cylinders left, it has closed down the casualty department, keeping the scantly available reserve for emergencies.
4. The Guwahati-Imphal air fare has suddenly gone up and people are simply unable either to enter or leave Manipur by road.
5. Non-Manipuris have been served notices to quit the state by the Peoples' Liberation Army, an outlawed separatist organisation with Chinese contours; it has set May 31 as the deadline.
Thousands of labourers and workers have already left in panic; the remaining traders and teachers are terrified with zero security assurance either by the state government or by the Centre.
So this is the state of India where citizens are asked to leave like the jihadis did to Kashmiri Hindus. People ask who owns Manipur. Why don't the Delhiwallahs care for them?
If a small road was blocked for day in Haryana or Uttar Pradesh [ Images ], the media would have covered it immediately. But a month's blockade of two arteries joining the state with the rest of India hasn't attracted even a fraction of that attention. Why? Because Haryana and UP are more important to South and North Block than Manipur?
Roads are blocked cutting the state from the rest of India, hospitals do not run, an administration is on strike for the last four months, terrorists virtually rule the land and above that the Centre decided to allow T Muivah, a leader of a separatist insurgent organisation, the National Socialist Council of Nagaland, Issac-Muivah faction, to visit his ancestral village in Manipur.
Muivah has been booked in several cases of murder and mayhem in Manipur. On finding that the Union home ministry is proposing to send him under Z-plus security cover in a government helicopter to the state, Manipuris boiled in anger. Chief Minister Ibobi Singh, a Congress leader, flatly refused to accept the central government's unilateral decision.
Nevertheless, this move further aggravated the already tormented state and all social and political organisations joined hands to condemn the Centre's move, threatening dire consequences if Muivah was allowed to visit the state. In protest clashes, three young men have been killed.
Muivah is demanding a Greater Nagaland, and his organisation's slogan is 'Nagaland for Christ'. The movement is supported openly by various denominations of Nagaland's churches and it gets funds from Western countries. Muivah is accused of having engineered the 1992-1993 ethnic cleansing of Kuki tribes in Manipur which is said to have claimed more than 900 lives. During that NSCN-IM operation, 350 Kuki villages were uprooted and 100,000 Kukis were turned into refugees.
They are bewildered why such a person is given so much importance and Z-plus security cover. Is the only 'crime' of the Manipuris that they still owe an allegiance to the Indian tricolour?
Manipuris oppose Muivah's visit to his ancestral village Somdal in Ukhrul district. It may shock many that Muivah is originally a Manipuri Naga, hence his credibility amongst the Naga-Nagas is low. Manipuris fear this will further accelerate and strengthen his demand to merge four Manipuri districts into his proposed Nagalim state.
The Government of India has so far not assured it will keep Manipur's territorial integrity intact.
Non-Manipuris, organised under a banner, quite ironically called the 'Hindustani Samaj', are in a deadly trap.
On March 17, 2008, eight non-Manipuri people were killed on the outskirts of the capital Imphal. Seven of them were brought in a van, lined up on the roadside with their hands tied behind their backs, and shot dead from close range with automatic weapons. A few miles away another non-Manipuri was shot dead in similar circumstances. This was the first time in Manipur that militants targeted non-local migrants who are either labourers or petty traders.
In the two years since then 32 non-Manipuris, mostly Biharis and Bengalis, have been killed.
This year in February, the Revolutionary People's Front, a banned organisation in Manipur through its armed outfit, the Peoples' Liberation Army issued a quit notice to all Mayaangs -- a derogatory term used for non-Manipuris, who came to Manipur after 1949 (the year when the princely state was merged with the Indian Union) to leave the state by May 31.
Non-Manipuris travelling from Guwahati to Imphal by bus -- the only mode of travel available to poor people -- have been denied tickets at Guwahati ticket booking counters.
Yet none of the great national leaders or organisations, barring the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the Bharatiya Janata Party [ Images ], have thought it fit to voice the pain and anguish of the Manipuri people. Neither the television channels nor national newspapers sent their correspondents to cover the unprecedented crisis.
That's what makes the north-eastern people think that Delhi does not care for them. Hindustan's boundaries for the so-called mainland politicos are up to Kolkata [ Images ] in the east and Amarnath in the north. Even the local Manipur media cannot refuse to publish threatening press releases of the terrorist groups.
In the famous Mothers' Market in Imphal, the women traders seethe in anger. Their leader Mangi Devi says, "How do you think our children will get a good education when 15 days a month, their schools are forcibly closed? Can they ever think of qualifying for the IAS and IPS like your children in Delhi? There is no petrol, no kerosene, it has become extremely difficult for the common person to travel to his village, no medicines in hospitals. Is this the India we should be proud of?"
The Manipuri people hardly get to celebrate Independence Day or Republic Day -- they are not allowed by the banned outfits who virtually dictate the state's life. Only under heavy security cover can government buildings hoist the tricolour for a short time.
No school, public place, private institution can display the national colours. Hindi is banned; Hindi movies have not been allowed in movie theatres for the last ten years. In school textbooks, the national anthem cannot be printed.
Every single government contract has a 20 percent share for the terrorist separatist organisations and government officials take cash out in bundles and distribute it, according to the size and influence of the organisation, to their representatives whenever a new contract is awarded.
Leaders of various social organisations are so terrified are no local political party has been able to condemn the threat to the non-Manipuris. The market wears a ghostly look after 6 pm and the last movie show (all showing either Manipuri movies, shot on video cameras or Korean ones) is at 4 pm. Unemployment is widespread; educational degrees from local colleges mean nothing as they are given without a proper regimen.
With none to protect them and engulfed in such a darkness it is a great tribute to the patriotic Manipuris that they suffer in silence and have not yet revolted.
Tarun Vijay is the Bharatiya Janata Party's national spokesperson and director, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation, New Delhi.
“Nagas have undertaken a challenge from the Manipuris of 800 square mile tiny Manipur Kangleipak city-state. Nagas will never give up their rights to defend themselves against aggression on their people and land by the selfish Manipuris. Meiteis must be made to pay the price of unnecessary challenging the Nagas and arrogantly butchering their innocent brothers and torturing scores of Nagas.” http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/48781.html
Interlocutor Okayed Muivah's visit
Monday, New Delhi: Union home minister P Chidambaram is deeply worried about the situation developing on the Nagaland-Manipur border where Naga leader, Thuingaleng Muivah, president of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) [NSCN (I-M)], is staging a protest sit-in, demanding entry into Manipur. Muivah is insisting that he be allowed to visit his native village Somdal in Manipur to pay homage to his late parents. The Okram Ibobi Singh government of Manipur, fearing an outbreak of violence in the state, has refused him permission. The NSCN (I-M) is demanding a ‘greater Nagaland’, which includes areas that currently lie in Manipur.

Security and intelligence agencies are aghast at how such a sensitive visit was allowed without consulting the respective state governments. While the home minister agreed that such visits need permissions, Manipur says it was never consulted. Ironically, Muivah’s visit to Manipur was cleared by RS Pandey, who was appointed interlocutor for the Naga talks earlier this year by Chidambaram. Pandey had released a detailed itinerary of Muivah’s trip and asked the governments of West Bengal, Manipur, and Nagaland to make the necessary arrangements. Muivah reached Kolkata on May 2 and was provided Z-plus security cover. He was due to visit Somdal on May 8.

Incidentally, former union secretary and the previous interlocutor for Naga talks, K Padmanabhaiah, said that in the decade he interacted with Muivah, the latter never sought permission to visit Manipur. Padmanabhaiah refused to comment further. Sources say the visit has allowed Muivah an excellent opportunity to unify various Naga factions. In fact, for years, the Nagas of Nagaland never acknowledged Muivah as their leader since he hailed from Manipur. Now, they are compelled to support him. The Centre is concerned and the situation was discussed at a recent core committee meeting attended by prime minister Manmohan Singh and other ministers. http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_interlocutor-okayed-muivah-s-visit_1383911
Southern Nagas affirm rights; GoI urged to act morungexpress
Dimapur, May 16 (MExN): The frontal organizations representing the Nagas in the present State of Manipur has made the latest declaration that the “Nagas in south Nagaland (Nagas in present state of Manipur) are steadfast and committed towards peaceful political solution and the integration of all Naga areas” and as such urged the Government of India to demonstrate its sincerity and respect for the “Unique history and situation of the Nagas”.

In this regard, the declaration also stated that it will “sever all relationship with the Manipur State Government and all the dominant organizations and individuals who collude with it, until our history and situation are acknowledged and accorded due respect”. “We shall offer our all for the realization of an honourable political settlement and for the integration of all Naga areas whereby we will live as a people under one political roof, free from domination and exploitation”, stated a joint press declaration issued by Samson Remei President, United Naga Council; Grace Shatsang, President, Naga Women’s Union, Manipur; Adani David Mao, President, All Naga Students’ Association Manipur and Phamhring Sengul Convenor, Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Right. It was informed that the declaration was adopted in the 15th May, 2010 Consultative Meeting of Naga Frontal Organisations, former parliamentarians, church leaders, intellectuals, professionals, academicians and public leaders which was held at Tahamzan (Senapati) under the aegis of the United Naga Council and the hospitality of the Naga Peoples’ Organisation. The Consultative meeting also declared that peaceful political solution and integration of all Naga areas through the removal of all artificial state boundaries is the only way to live with dignity and protect our existence as a people.

The declaration also pointed out that the “aspiration and commitment of the Nagas, divided by artificial states boundaries have been for all time for peaceful political approach to the unresolved political issue with India and Burma” and that towards this end, the Nagas have consistently expressed their objectives by initiating democratic political steps through the memorandum submitted to the Simon Commission(1929), declaration of independence (August 14, 1947), plebiscite(1951), and boycott of the Indian general election (1952 and 1957).

“While, the remedial initiative were peaceful, the concerned States had invariably opted for military solution leading to serious case of human rights violation and genocide of the Naga peoples under the pretext of Internal law and Order problem”, the declaration stated. It also termed as “the meticulously calculated military crackdown to undermine the rights of the Nagas by the Manipur State Government under the leadership of Ibobi Singh, with the unprovoked attack on the innocent Naga peace - marchers on the 6th May, 2010 at Mao Gate in Senapati district of present State of Manipur, killing two innocent students in cold blood, injuring hundreds and displacing thousands of Naga villagers. The Naga civil societies as such condemned the Manipur state Cabinet’s policy to bar Mr. Th. Muivah, General Secretary of NSCN from visiting his native village and other Naga areas and the unilateral backtracking of the Government of India (GOI) from its commitment. IT also condemned the militarization and the brutal actions of the Manipur State Security Forces meted out to the Naga public. The joint declaration also expressed appreciation to the Naga civil societies all over the Naga homeland, the conscientious individuals and civil societies from India and elsewhere for their solidarity and their commitment for the protection and respect of human rights. The declaration also appealed to all neighbouring tribal communities and other conscientious communities to take their own decisive political position that will ensure their freedom and their existence as peoples.

“We declare that we are resolute and will embark on a political journey to consolidate the Indo-Naga political dialogue that must culminate in an honourable and peaceful political solution that respects the inherent rights of the Nagas, which includes our right to live together under one political roof by the removal of all artificial states boundaries”, it stated while informing that “on this day, the 15th of May 2010, we declare our commitment to protect the rights and existence of the Nagas and that we shall initiate steps for the fulfillment of our objectives”.
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/48824.html

Naga civil societies condemn Centre’s ‘unilateral backtracking’ Newmai News Network

Senapati, May 16: The Naga civil societies under the aegis of the United Naga Council (UNC) strongly condemned the Manipur state 'Cabinet’s policy' to bar Th. Muivah, general secretary of NSCN from visiting his native village and other Naga areas and the unilateral backtracking of the Government of India (GOI) from its commitment. The organisations then alleged that Mao Gate incident "the militarization and the brutal actions of the Manipur State security forces meted out to the Naga public" and condemned the incident. In its emergency meeting held at Senapati on Saturday, the Naga civil societies said, "Whereas, the aspiration and commitment of the Nagas, divided by artificial states boundaries have been for all time for peaceful political approach to the unresolved political issue with India and Burma".

Towards this end, the Nagas have consistently expressed their objectives by initiating democratic political steps through the memorandum submitted to the Simon Commission(1929), declaration of independence (August 14, 1947), plebiscite(1951), and boycott of the Indian general election (1952 and 1957), the UNC, ANSAM, NPMHR and NWUM said in a joint statement. While, the remedial initiative were peaceful, the concerned States had invariably opted for military solution leading to serious case of human rights violation and genocide of the Naga peoples under the pretext of internal law and order problem, they added.

"Today, in view of the meticulously calculated military crackdown to undermine the rights of the Nagas by the Manipur State Government under the leadership of Ibobi Singh, with the unprovoked attack on the innocent Naga peace - marchers on May 6 at Mao Gate in Senapati district of present State of Manipur, killing two innocent students in cold blood, injuring hundreds and displacing thousands of Naga villagers the Naga civil societies condemned it," the state said.

"We declare that the Nagas in south Nagaland (Nagas in present state of Manipur) are steadfast and committed towards peaceful political solution and the integration of all Naga areas and urge the GOI to demonstrate its sincerity and respect for the “Unique history and situation of the Nagas”. We also declare that peaceful political solution and integration of all Naga areas through the removal of all artificial state boundaries is the only way to live with dignity and protect our existence as a people. We take this moment to express our appreciation to the Naga civil societies all over the Naga homeland, the conscientious individuals and civil societies from India and elsewhere for their solidarity and their commitment for the protection and respect of human rights," the joint statement of Naga civil groups declared.

At this critical juncture we also appeal to all neighbouring tribal communities and other conscientious communities to take their own decisive political position that will ensure their freedom and their existence as peoples, they added. "We declare that we are resolute and will embark on a political journey to consolidate the Indo-Naga political dialogue that must culminate in an honourable and peaceful political solution that respects the inherent rights of the Nagas, which includes our right to live together under one political roof by the removal of all artificial states boundaries.

Therefore on this day, May 15, we declare our commitment to protect the rights and existence of the Nagas and that we shall initiate steps for the fulfillment of our objectives. We will sever all relationship with the Manipur State Government and all the dominant organizations and individuals who collude with it, until our history and situation are acknowledged and accorded due respect. We shall offer our all for the realization of an honourable political settlement and for the integration of all Naga areas whereby we will live as a people under one political roof, free from domination and exploitation," the UNC, ANSAM, NWUM, NPMHR said.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=653
Displaced children in touch with books despite hurdles
Chizokho Vero
Kisama | May 16: Although they are no longer attending normal class in school, it seems education does not fall distant from them. They continue to engage in reading and writing from a makeshift house. They are no other than displaced children, presently camped at Kisama in the aftermath of May 6 incident at Mao gate. Many of the displaced children at the makeshift house follow the tradition of learning process as they are being taught daily by some senior students at the camp. It seems that for them they want to continue their study in whatever locations they are in, seemingly to aim for brighter future. Presently, there are 494 displaced persons taking shelter in Kisama. Source said that the medical department has set up 24 hours medical booth to take care of the displaced persons and also water supply and electricity are being provided to the satisfaction of the displaced persons. Besides, police beat post has been set up there. Talking to this correspondent, officials looking after this camp said that the relief materials are more than enough. Mao Baptist Church, Kohima today visited the camp and prayed for the displaced persons here.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/48839.html

BJP demands Congress' clear-cut stand on Muivah’s visit Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 16: BJP national leaders were preplexed when Union Home Minister, P Chidambaram informed them that he had consulted the Chief Minister, O Ibobi with regard to Th Muivah’s visit to Manipur, information and publicity secretary of BJP, Manipur Pradesh, Basanta Sharma said today. The state BJP has been asked to verify the matter, who was telling the truth–P Chidambaram or Chief Minister, O Ibobi by the national spokesperson of BJP, Prakash Javedkar, Basanta informed Hueiyen Lanpao today. Basanta said that the SPF spokesperson, Minister of IFCD and YAS, N Biren had, during a briefing to the media-persons after a cabinet meeting some days back, said that the Centre had not consulted the state government with regard to Muivah’s entry into the state. In contrast to the statement of Minister N Biren, the Union Home Minister P Chidambaram informed the national leaders during a meeting in New Delhi that he had given prior information to the Chief Minister of Manipur, O Ibobi about the visit of Muivah. At the same time, Chidambaram also said that Chief Minister Ibobi had told him that his government would not allow Muivah to enter the state.

Even though Ibobi turned down the appeal to allow Muivah to enter the state, why the Centre was sending Muivah to visit the state needs to be clarified by the state government to the people, he demanded. What is the motive behind the unclear statements of the Congress at the Centre and the state, he asked observing that people of the state have been forced to suffer due to the contradicting statements of the Congress at the centre and the state. The BJP is with the people in not allowing Muivah to enter the state, and the state is very clear but there are differences in the stand of Congress party in this regard. BJP is compelled to raise the question of a hidden agenda in the stand of the Congress, Basanta said.

He further pointed out that there is a difference even in the state Congress when Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister, Y Erabot criticized the Chief Minister for not sending security personnel even though the department arranged trucks for transportation of essential items on NH-53. The state BJP will now try to unveil the hidden agenda within the Congress, he said observing that if Chief Minister Ibobi is sincere enough to serve the people, he should make public the details on the statement of Chidambaram given to the BJP national leaders. Otherwise, Ibobi should tender resignation on moral ground, Basanta demanded.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=657

Centre should withdraw permission to Muivah at once: Reddy
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 16 2010: Union Home Minister P Chidambaram should be responsible for the tension brewing up in Manipur and the Centre should immediately review the permission given to the rebel leader, Muivah to enter the state, demanded CPI leader Sudhakar Reddy today. Deputy General Secretary and former MP, Sudhakar Reddy, who arrived in Imphal today to review the tense situation in the state arising out of the now deferred visit of Muivah to the state, talking to reporters charged that the Centre had not forethought the motive behind the NSCN-IM leader's desired visit not only to his birthplace but also to other Naga inhabited areas and attend public meetings.
Muivah's entry into the state will lead to a large scale communal violence, he cautioned the Centre, pressing it to review the permission given to him to enter the state before the things get worse. The CPI leader asked why Muivah did not plan to enter only his birthplace, if he really loved and wanted to visit the village as a human being instead of planning to attend various public meetings at other places in Senapati, Ukhrul and Chandel district.
This clearly indicated the motive behind his visit, he observed. The CPI is with the people of Manipur in banning Muivah's visit to the state. The party will discuss the situation of Manipur arising out of the Centre's decision to allow Muivah's visit amidst strong opposition of the state government and the people at the party's National Council meeting to be held on June 12 next, he said.
The party is also ready to table the issue along with the repeal of AFSPA from the state in the Parliament during its summer session, he assured. He also expressed amazement over the blocking of the national highways, lifelines of the people of the state for such a long time creating artificial food scarcity in the state, and observed that it showed that there was no law at all in the state. In a state of democratic India, a few sections of the people were doing whatever they wanted and were snatching the right to life of other people only for the sake of their own interest. The Government of India should immediately open the highways and take up steps on a war-footing to ensure availability of all essential commodities for the people.
The Centre should also try to bring the situation of the state to normalcy, he demanded appealing to the people to be patient and remain calm to prevent eruption of communal clash in the state which would be a great loss to the people. Dr M Nara, who was also present at the briefing to the media, lamented that Muivah is trying to enter and break the territorial integrity of the state drawing support of the people of the so-called Naga tribes in the name of remembering his birth place which he left 40 years back and lived as a foster son of Nagaland.
http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=1..170510.may10

Manipur Christian body seeks PM intervention Newmai News Network |
Imphal All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO), a conglomerate body of various Christian denominations in the state of Manipur on Saturday sought the Prime Minister’s intervention into the problems and hardships faced by the Manipur people presently and to get immediate remedy on the current situation of the state. AMCO in a missive sent to the Prime Minister of India, stated that it has been working for the cause of peace and harmony in Manipur. It propagated that it never looked at the citizens of the state on communal lines.

Elucidating the problem and hardships faced by the people, the Christian body said that the prolonging blockade imposed by All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM) along the two national highways leading to Manipur, has made the people suffered in terms of scarcity of fuels and other essential commodities in the state. It contended that the blockade was imposed following the announcement of Autonomous District Council (ADC) elections in the hill areas of the state which is ‘against the wish of a large section of the hill settlers of Manipur’. The situation has also aggravated with the resignation of seven Naga MLAs of the state in the ‘already tense situation’, said the AMCO. “The sudden severing of civil life had driven this land-locked state of Manipur into a confusing and secluded situation of uncertainty”, it asserted. It then urged the Prime Minister of India to sort out the blockade impasse by bringing a solution which will be ‘acceptable to all concerned by inviting the aggrieved parties to a negotiating table, putting an end on the harrowing sorrow caused due to the ongoing blockade and counter-blockade, so that the beleaguered state’s peace-loving citizens may be saved from the ordeal’.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/48781.html

KSO calls for communal harmony By Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 16: Due to intimidation received from some persons, Khoibus in Chandel district displaced themselves and taking asylum at Khoibu Centre and Tengnoupal, Kuki Students’s Organisation (KSO), Tengnoupal block today while briefing to reporters at its office. President Thangboi Lhungdim speaking to reporters also condemned the act of some miscreants pulled down of a sign board and ransacking belongings of the Khoibu village and threatening to leave the village. In the prevailing tense situation, KSO does not want such acts and using words threatening the villagers. It is not good to spew communal venoms to a community by other communities. “Let allow the displace villagers to return home. Let the people of the state joining press the Centre to end the impasse as per desire of the people so as to prevent occurring of communal clash,” he called for adding that 19 villagers including 12 children are taking refuse at Tengnoupal even as those in Khoibu centre left.

Assam Rifles has extended Rs 300 in cash as help to the displaced villagers apart from providing fooding items, he said appealing the government to ensure peace ad tranquility to the them. Koko Touthang of Khoibu Centre, general secretary of KSO, Tengnoupal block, Daniel Mate and former president John also attended the press briefing.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=655

‘Muivah is banned in state’ By Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 16: “Muivah should be banned entering the state in any cost” shouted the womenfolk of Mahabali Kabui Khun today while joining in carrying out sit-in demonstration which is continuing in various parts of the state in support of the government decision to ban entering Muivah in the state. Sit-in demonstrations were staged at various parts of the state today apart from marching rallies shouting slogans charging Muivah of creating disharmony in the state in the name of peace for a community only. Muivah intention is to create communal hatred among the people of the state to fulfill his dream of making Greater Nagaland, womenfolk taking part in a sit-in demonstration lamented.

The demonstrations were staged by the Mahabali Kabui Khun Meira Paibi Lup in association with the Brahmapur Nahabam Apunba at Mahabali Thumbu Thong. At the concluding part a rally was also marched on the streets in the localities. The rally covered Bamon Leikai, Wangkhei etc by shouting slogans like “Long live Manipur, We oppose any move to disintegrate Manipur, Muivah will not allow entering Manipur,” etc. The sit-in demonstrations were staged at Khurai Paragon Club, at Thangapat, Kwakeithel, Sagolband etc.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=658

Tamei to Nagaland By Newmai News Network

Dimapur, May 16: The people in Tamenglong district are now heavily depending on the Tamei-Tening road to transport essential commodities from Dimapur. The transporters mostly carry rice from Dimapur to Tamenglong district via Peren district of Nagaland. It is worth noting that the distance from Tamei in Tamenglong district to the nearest Nagaland village is just 30 kilometres and its been for years now that good number of taxis have been plying in this link road.

Once the Barak bridge is over, Tamei-Tening road will be the shortest road to reach Dimapur from Imphal. The food stock in the Tamenglong district depleted after the imposition of counter blockade by the people in the Manipur valley. As the counter blockade continues in Imphal, the hill district of Ukhrul too depends on the other roads that connects Nagaland without touching Imphal. The Chandel people in turn look for the roads that link the district to Ukhrul so that essential commodities can be transported without passing Imphal.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=659

Congress set to sweep ADC poll By Our staff Reporter

Imphal, May 14: With 68 of its nominees already elected without contest out of the total of 156 constituencies, confidence of the ruling Congress to gain absolute majority in the Autonomous District Council (ADC) elections of hill district is sky-high, literally. The first phase election for 72 seats covering Sadar hills, Churachandpur and Chandel will be held on May 26. Already 32 candidates belonging to the Congress have been elected.

For the second phase scheduled for June 2 and covering 72 ADCs of Tamenglong, Senapati and Ukhrul districts 36 Congress candidates have been declared elected without contest. Each district has 24 seats and two more additional seats will be nominated. A jubilant spokesman of the SPF Government N Biren said, “This is a glaring sign of the tribal people keeping a firm belief and trust with the Congress. This is a success story of the party’s good governance.” “We are almost sure that the Congress will win absolute majority in the ADC polls,” Biren, who is also IFC minister, said. It may be mentioned that certain tribal bodies are demanding that the ADC amendment act 2008 under which the two-phased polls will be conducted, be nullified besides asking candidates not to join the fray. In pursuit of their demands indefinite economic blockade is being imposed on National Highways 39 and 53.

On the otherhand, Manipur Pradesh Trinamool Congress president Kim Gangte, said she is not satisfied that many of the seats went to the Congress without contest and termed the situation as a “very very unexpected” development. “The true beauty of democracy is nowhere in this election as there is no competition. We will definitely say ‘Bravo’ to those victorious Congress candidates when they win fighting the election with their rivals,” she said. ADC elections were stalled in the state for the last two decades owing to a decision passed by the Hill Areas Committee (HAC), a statute body of the Manipur state assembly formed by the tribal legislators.
http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/News_pages/Local%20news-08.html

State Govt. arranges secured shelters for ADC candidates
By Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 16: Manipur government has arranged secured shelters for the candidates particularly the Naga candidates contesting the upcoming elections to the District Councils as the deadline set by the United Naga Council, Manipur to withdraw the candidatures is due to expire by midnight today. Candidates of the ADC elections of five districts receiving threats will be staying at SAI Youth Hostel and State Youth Centre at Khuman Lampak, Imphal, the additional DGP of Manipur Police informed the Commanding Officer of the 2nd IRB responsible for the protection of the multi-disciplines sport complex asking the later to take care of them by detailing armed personnel at the two lodgings.

SPs of the Imphal east and west districts have also been asked to provide additional security to the candidates in addition to the present security personnel detailing at the two hostels, an official source in the police department said Sunday. A total of 50-60 sixty candidates will be staying at the SAI Youth Hostel while at 40-50 candidates are expected to stay in the State Youth Centre, the official added. Filing of nominations in the two phase elections to six ADCs in five hill districts, Senapati, Sadar Hill (within Senapati district), Tamenglong, Churachandpur, Chandel and Ukhrul districts had already completed. The last date of withdrawal of candidatures had also over for both phases.

Elections are scheduled on May 26 and June 2 next but for the Naga ADCs in Senapati, Ukhrul, Tamenglong and Chandel polling will be conducted only in 27 ADC constituencies as lone candidates in most of the constituencies declared elected uncontested except in few constituency where none filed nominations. Out of 24 seats in each ADCs, only one each filed nominations in Senapati in 20 seats and state election commission declared them elected uncontested, in Ukhrul 21 candidates declared elected uncontested, 12 in Tamenglong district while 18 in Chandel district.

However, except in around nine constituencies, many candidates are in the fray in Kuki dominated Churachandpur and Sadar Hill ADCs, according to reports compiled from district election authorities. The Congress has taken the advantage of the chaotic situation in electing maximum numbers of candidates uncontested as 48 candidates elected uncontested were party nominees, a source from the Manipur Pradesh Congress said. The elections process for the ADC election was amidst the strong oppositions from Naga based NGOs and imposition of economic blockade on the highways by the ANSAM since before the issued of the notification of the elections. The United Naga Council, a body strongly opposing the holding of the election to the district council under the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Councils (3rd Amendment) Act 2008, on Saturday had asked the Naga candidate to return their candidatures within 24-hour stating that they filed the nominations against the decision of the Council taken in an consultative meeting of the “Naga frontal organisations” held at Ukhrul, Taphou, Tadubi, Kangshang, Chandel and Tamenglong in series in the recent time.

While setting the deadline by midnight of tonight, the UNC also reiterated that the Consultative Meetings unanimously rejected the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Council (Third Amendment) Act 2008 in its present form and content. Those who non-compliance with the warning will be treated as “Anti-people and Anti-national and the council will not be responsible for dare consequences on account of the non-compliance, the UNC warmed.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=662

Muivah’s Visit: Is GOI Testing the Waters? - Aya A. Shimray
The very rational behind government entering into a Ceasefire with NSCN is because the Centre saw it as a huge trouble in India’s North-East. Now, if GOI sees his proposed visit to his native home as inciting trouble, the very purpose of having entered into a Ceasefire agreement with NSCN is defeated. The Centre is but only trying to reverse the situation to square one. In all likelihood, inspite of seriously living up to its commitment to finding an honorable solution, the GOI is leaving the fate of the current Indo-Naga Peace process at tenterhooks, or perhaps at the mercy of the government of Manipur. The GOM’s decision to bar Th. Muivah from embarking on a visit to his native home under Ministry of Home Affairs’ (MHA) endorsement, the subsequent protests by Naga peoples from Chandel to Mao Gate against the GOM’s decision leading to the Mao Gate mayhem and the immediate U-turn taken by MHA asking Muivah to postpone his visit for fear of creating possible trouble in Manipur is all but testing the waters, aside from exposing once again the GOI’s insincerity and non-committal approach towards finding a just and lasting peace in Nagalim, an issue which has protracted for the last 63 years. Perhaps, it is now very apparent that the GOI is caught between two choices – finding a solution to 6 decades old Naga Issue or saving a Congress Party in Manipur. Not allowing Muivah to visit to his home state would literally amount to having inflicted with the biggest act or betrayal, even insult by GOI. Allowing him to visit his native home could probably heighten apprehension, leading to unrest in the valley, thereby placing the future of present Congress government in uncertainties. The ball is already in the Centre’s court now. It has to choose from between the two choices, which is dearer to it. Either way, an undesired repercussion is imminently hanging like a damocle’s sword before the Centre. If the MHA is to re-endorse earlier stand and Muivah visits his native home, it is apparently clear that the already apprehensive Meitei population in Imphal valley may rise in violent protests and dissolving the Assembly and imposition of President’s Rule might be the only viable option. Again, if the GOI sensing trouble in Manipur valley derides its early endorsement for Muivah’s maiden homecoming in 47 years, it is amply clear that the already ‘peeved’ Naga leader, feeling ‘betrayed’, ‘cheated’ and ‘dishonored’ could inevitably pursue a on a move, a move which may not auger well for the current Indo-Naga Peace process and peace in the North East India on a whole. Who are we to blame? Is Muivah to be blamed for having proposed to visit his native village in 47 years? Is it the Ibobi government, citing ‘threat to Manipur territorial integrity’ which inked a cabinet resolution barring him from entering Manipur who is responsible? The Government of the Peoples Republic of India has to take all the blame in the first instance not for having endorsed Muivah’s visit but for not having been able to prevail and convince upon the Manipur government. It has been reported that the MHA as last ditch effort not to disappoint Muivah had offered to provide him chopper to visit his village. However, the Naga leader is understood to have told MHA that what he needed was not a chopper but ‘time’ with his beloved ones at his native village, Somdal. Certainly, Mr. Th. Muivah is not an International criminal, a wanted thief or an international drug dealer to be clandestinely dropped by a chopper. Every Naga from Hebron Camp in Nagaland to Phaibung village in Senapati district of Manipur till Somdal village would love to wave and cheer the Naga leader’s homecoming. Obviously, Ibobi government foresaw all such warm reception waiting to be accorded to the Naga leader and apparently felt so insecure. Muivah continue to camp at Viswema village, 16 kms from Nagaland capital, Kohima and GOI has had held series of meeting with Manipur CM Ibobi, state Governor including Union Home Secy, GK. Pillai, Naga Interlocker, RS. Pandey, Union Ministers and political leaders from all national parties. Muivah’s visit issue is also said to have dominated the All India Congress Committee (AICC) meeting held in Delhi recently and Muivah is said to have been seen as a ‘trouble maker’. The Home Minister, P. Chidambaram is still playing shy of making the bold decision and been talking about the ‘economic blockades’ along the two National Highways by ANSAM who are demanding for re-amendment to the Autonomous District Council Act. Muivah’s patience has been tested for so long and could run out anytime. Anyhow, both NSCN and GOI has to salvage the hard-earned current Indo-Naga political talks. Such dilly-dally politics of the GOI only goes to expose once again its insincerity, immaturity, inconsistency and lack of political integrity.
As of now, with the GOI failing to prevail upon the situation, it is only but seen as a maneuver by GOI to plant seed of discord between the two communities Meiteis and Nagas. In simple logic, the GOI is playing shy of the Naga Integration vis-a-vis Manipur integrity and leaving it to be sorted out between the two communities, who have lived together as neighbours for centuries. The simple fact remains that Muivah’s visit is seen as purely a journey of peace and goodwill. Portraying him as the bad ‘guy’ or ‘trouble-maker’ and preventing him from embarking his homecoming journey might only cause undesired ripple effect and shatter durable peace in the whole North East region.
Response to Samson Remei's article -Ten days of seize at Mao
Bankimchandra Chingangbam
This is a very brief response to an article by Samson Remei, President, UNC- “Ten days seize of Mao gate area by the Manipur state forces”, a few days ago in your online edition. I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved families of those two souls who passed away unfortunately, on the 6th of May, and I hope to God that this does not repeat again in future. A very pertinent question arises at this point. When the security forces were in place to bar the entry of Th. Muivah, a very desperate man on his last gamble, who instigated the innocent and unknowing people to move forward? This a definite and deliberate attempt to create animosity in the minds of the unknowing public by someone who knew how to send in the innocent people as sacrificial lambs. The one who instigated this must be a very sick and cowardly individual and cannot be part of any civilized society.

Mr. Samson Remei, on the other hand, seems to have all the prerequisite knowledge of the security placements to bar the entry of Th. Muivah. He seems to have all the info regarding the personnel right down to their rank and file. If he is privy to so much of inside info, he must have at least realized the gravity of the stand off and the ground reality. Why was the innocent Mao people not forewarned so that no untoward incident happened ? Let Mr. Samson be reminded that Muivah is a criminal at large, and the atrocious crimes he has committed against his own and other communities cannot be written off just because the central government has some soft corner for him. The Manipur government has all the rights to arrest him as soon he steps inside the Manipur boundary, for all his crimes, but it is the Manipur Cabinet's wise decision to just bar his entry so that unpleasantness of arresting Muivah does not occur. It is to Mr. Remei's credit that his reportage seems straight out of an amateur action novel. It is the central government's myopic vision of allowing Muivah's entry into Manipur, not realizing that his entry will be vehemently opposed. He must now have realized the resilience of the Manipuris and the extent they can go upto to protect what is inherently theirs.
A war can be carried out overtly or covertly, and the blocking of arterial supply lines like the national highways is an act of war. Mr. Remei, in all his inherent wisdom, knows this but he is acting dumb and innocent, as if it is a democratic form of protest. The sufferers of this protest is made to look like the perpetrators. It is now almost 50 days now that the real seize is on the communities of the Manipur valley. But still the people are holding out because all of us know for real, that only a handful of deranged persons are planning and executing such inhuman acts. Kudos to their patience but for all I know, it may be thinning out, and it is my sincere reproach to all the peace loving hills people to come out and do away with the nefarious designs of the NSCN(IM). Do not live your life terrorized by them, as you all are expendables in their inhuman activities.

Yours Sincerely,
Bankimchandra Chingangbam
Imphal, Manipur http://www.morungexpress.com/write_wing/48843.html

Dear friends,
PLease find the press invite below
Press Invite
We, members of Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), invite you for a conference to address the confusion created around Th. Muivah’s (Secretary General, National Socialist Council of Nagalim, NSCN) visit to his village. This confusion is created by central government’s assurance of “safe passage” that was subsequently withdrawn by the state government of Manipur. The confusion is further compounded by the Manipur Cabinet's decision not to allow the visit despite the fact that the Manipur government was informed about Mr. Muivah's visit well in advance and Mr. Ibobi Singh was fully aware of this programme.
This has created a humanitarian crisis, which has already claimed two lives and put ordinary men, women, and children in the line of fire. Many have fled their homes and others have suffered destruction of their property and their livelihood. There are about 1000 internally displaced persons, mostly women and children who have taken refuge in Kisama in Nagaland.
People who visited the affected areas and witnessed the political turmoil will address the conference.
We will also present images and video clips captured and taken by citizen journalists.

Time: 4.00 to 6.00 pm
Date: May 18 2010
Venue: Women’s Press Corps

Contact: +91 9871155545, +91 9868283811