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07/24/2010: "Muivah meets PC, discusses Naga peace process Nagaland Page"



Muivah meets PC, discusses Naga peace process Nagaland Page

New Delhi, July 23: NSCN-IM 'general secretary' Thuingaleng Muivah today met Home Minister P Chidambaram and discussed with him issues related to the Naga peace process.
Muivah is also understood to have apprised Chidambaram about his nearly one-and-a-half-month-long peace mission across Nagaland and its outcome.
The issue of his failed trip to his ancestral village in Manipur is also said to have figured in the nearly hour-long meeting.
The Naga rebel leader had also met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
A crucial round of talks between NSCN-IM and Centre's interlocutor R S Pandey will begin here tomorrow to carry forward the peace process. A few rounds of informal talks with the NSCN-IM leadership had taken last week.
Top leaders of the rebel group, are currently in the capital to participate in the meeting.
Undertaking the peace mission that began in first week of June, Muivah visited all the districts of Nagaland except Mon and called for re-conciliation and understanding among the Nagas based on the principle of "forget and forgive" to have a unified voice to be presented before the government of India.
So far over 60 rounds of peace talks were held between the two sides during the course of 13-year-long peace process initiated in August 1997.
Initially, Muivah embarked on a journey to his native village in Manipur's Ukhrul district on May 5, but deferred his plan following stiff opposition from the Ibobi Singh government, which saw his visit as a "threat to communal harmony" in the state. (PTI)
NNC okays Naga platform DIMAPUR, JUL 24 (NPN):
Standing out from the group of those opposing the Naga Common Platform, the Naga National Council (Parent Body) has welcomed the Platform to work with complete neutrality and inclusively with all the Nagas, though it said that their works was yet to be seen. The NNC on the other hand sidelined the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) on the grounds that the Forum was engaged in partial reconciliation with two-three groups leaving behind the rest. The NNC alleged that the FNR was working for Naga reconciliation only with NSCN (I-M), NSCN-K and FGN which it described as “exclusive and incomplete.” “The NNC will never support the body or NGOs who work partially and exclusively,” stated a statement issued by Yilow Lotha, Central Executive Council member NNC. Lotha said the NNC did not anymore believe that the works of FNR for Naga reconciliation was “as if completed.” The NNC said it would welcome and support any concerned body of NGOs or even state body who would genuinely work for the Naga reconciliation inclusive of all the Nagas with genuine stand of neutrality. Lotha also said the NNC worked and stood for genuine Naga reconciliation as the very stand and resolution of NNC after its fragmentation which birthed the FGN in 1980. It however lamented that the parent body (NNC) was always sidelined and neglected even after many years of hard work for the Naga peace & unity which was the main focus and basic policy to bring peace and freedom in the “Homeland.” “But the NNC will always welcome the genuine and neutral body who will work inclusive with all the Nagas in the affairs of Naga reconciliation,” it reiterated.
Solution possible only if Nagas reason together in unity Morungexpress
In this image released to the media Zhopra Vero, Co-Convener, is seen speaking at the meeting with JCC members.
Dimapur, July 23 (MExN): “It is much easier for two warring parties to cut down each other rather than listen to each other and reconcile. But on 15th July 2010, at Monyakhsu Village in Konyak Region, two feuding parties decided to embrace each other for the love of their land and people. The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace inspired the Leadership of GPRN/NSCN and NNC/FGN to reason together and reach out to their comrades in other groups”. This was stated in a joint press note issued by the MIP, GPRN and Rali Wali, FGN. Stating that many political conflicts in the world have had their logical conclusions acknowledging the history of peoples and their rights, the joint statement pointed out that there was no reason why the Naga people cannot achieve the same.
Co-ordination Committee GPRN & FGN meets JCC
However, as convincing as it may sound, the press note stated that it was unreasonable on the part of any Naga to still believe that a political solution is on the anvil on the strength of 14 years of negotiations. “It is also time for Nagas to believe that a political solution is possible only if the Nagas reason together in unity”, it stated and added that the tragic past must be laid to rest and all outstanding issues must be settled amicably and peacefully if Nagas are to claim their place in this universe.
It also stated that it was “impractical to believe in the theory that violent capitulation of one party is the only logical conclusion”. “One plain truth is that, no matter how complicated it may appear to the complicated minds, unity of the Nagas is possible if one loves Nagaland”, it further stated while pointing out that the world was not going to wait for the Nagas forever. “This is the pivotal reason why the GPRN/NSCN and the NNC/FGN agreed in principle to unite unconditionally”.
The joint press note also informed that the Joint Co-ordination Committee (JCC) consisting of nine Naga tribes from Nagaland visited the Oking on 23rd July 2010, with a view to express their appreciation to N Kitovi Zhimomi, Ato Kilonser GPRN, Brig. (Retd) S Singnya, Kedahge of the NNC/FGN for the historic “Manyukshu Conclave” of 15th July 2010, and to support and encourage the Co-ordination Committee of the GPRN and FGN headed by Zhopra Vero, Co-convener and Kughalu Mulatonu also Co-convener. All nine tribal leaders expressed their joy at the merger of two Political groups and urged for reconciliation and unity of all political groups under the Covenant of Reconciliation, the press note stated.

Jamir bats for all-inclusive Naga talks with New Delhi TNN, IST
GUWAHATI: Former Nagaland chief minister S C Jamir on Thursday said the Centre should start all-inclusive talks with the Nagas in general and not with any particular group or an individual and think beyond the demands of insurgent outfits to find an "alternative solution" to the decades-old Naga issue.

Jamir's statement comes at a time when NSCN (I-M) chairman Th Muivah is camping in New Delhi for the next round of peace dialogue with New Delhi.

The veteran Congress leader said since the Centre had already turned down the Naga outfit's demands for sovereignty and integration of all Naga-inhabited areas in Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh, the Nagas should now look for an alternative solution under the purview of the Indian polity.

"The government has clearly ruled out sovereignty and territorial integrity and this applies to all other outfits. The Naga people need an alternative that can fit into the contemporary Indian polity," Jamir said.

Jamir, who had narrow escapes from militant attacks for five times in the past, said, "The Naga problem does not arise from a factional issue. The future has to be decided by the Naga people and not by group or an individual. We require a common voice within the parameters of the Indian polity. We must go back to the people and all factions must unite. The recent merger of the NSCN-K and the Naga National Council (NNC) is a positive sign."

He said Nagaland was the springboard of insurgency in the region and the idea of "independence" was prevalent in the tribal society even before India attained Independence. "Everybody wants freedom but a changed situation like our contemporary political reality has overshadowed many theories of the past," he added.

Muivah and four other members of NSCN(I-M) met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday and is scheduled to meet Union home minister P Chidambaram next week. Muivah and his team have also been holding a series of meetings with interlocutor RS Pandey in New Delhi over the week. The NSCN (IM) signed truce in 1997 and the peace process is continuing for the last 13 years.

Jamir recently completed gubernatorial responsibilities in Goa, Gujarat and Maharshtra and has returned to join active politics in his state. In his younger days, he was part of the Naga delegation of 1960 which gave the Nagas their state. He was also responsible for the ceasefire in 1965 with AZ Phizo of the NNC.
Naga peace talks should involve all nagas: Jamir [IST]
Guwahati, Jul 23: Former Maharashtra governor and Chief Minister of Nagaland Dr S C Jamir called all Naga rebels for a change in the Naga peace talks on Thursday, Jul 22 in Guwahati.
He said that the rebel organisation NSCN (I-M) led by Th Muivah and Isak Swu in the peace talks with the Centre would not solve problems for greater Nagaland. This peace talks should be “all inclusive” which is involving all the nagas together and not people who are on power alone.
The Centre had refused the demand of the NSCN (I-M)'s two principles which were sovereignty and integration of Naga inhabited areas in the North East.

So all the Naga rebel factions–NSCN (I-M), NSCN (K), Naga National Council (NNC) led by Adinno and Shingnyu– leaders from civil society, leaders of tribes and political leaders should actively participate in the Naga peace-talks from now onwards, said Jamir. He expressed that he would give full support and take active role in the peace talks.
9 tribal JCC supports unity move
Dimapur, July 23 (MExN): The Joint Co-ordination Committee has extended its support and corporation to “The Pledge and Joint Declaration” made by the GPRN/NSCN and NNC/FGN.
“We strongly urge upon the leadership of the merger group not to waver in all their endeavor with wisdom and discernment from Almighty God towards true unity, reconciliation and peace so as to hasten the settlement of Indo-Naga political issue,” stated the Joint Co-ordination Committee in a press note issue by the President of Konyak Union S Khoiwang Wangsa, President of Sumi Hoho Hokishe Yepthomi, President of Kachari Tribal Council S K Khempral, President of Kuki Ingpi Nagaland Asat Doungel, Vice President of Khiamnungan Tribal Council P Heno, President of Phom People’s Council Hamnyei Phom, Working President of Yimchungru Tribal Council Kius Chuba, President of United Sangtam Likhium Bamji Serangmong and President of Chang Khulei Setshang N Kaimang.
The Joint Co-ordination Committee comprises of Konyak Union, Khiamnungan Tribal Council, Chang Khulei Setshang Tribal Council, Yimchunger Tribal Council, Phom People’s Council, United Sangtam Likhium Bamji, Sumi Hoho, Kuki Ingpi Nagaland and Kachari Tribal Council Nagaland.
It has also appealed to all like-minded Naga Tribal Hoho, Civil Societies and Churches to extend their support and co-operation to strengthen the “unity, reconciliation and peace process”. The note mentioned that the merging of the two political groups at Monyukshu is unconditionally historic and a major boost towards the fulfillment of ‘Covenant of Reconciliation’, which was signed by the Naga political groups including Isak Swu, Chairman NSCN (IM), SS Khaplang Chairman of GPRN/NSCN and Brig (Rtd) Singnya, Kedahge, NNC/FGN.
Moreover, the Committee has been striving for the “true unity and reconciliation” amongst the lasting solution to the “vexed Indo-Naga political issue for many years”, the note added. Further, the committee has “sincerely called upon all the other Naga Political Groups to abide and adhere the ‘Covenant of Reconciliation’ both in spirit and letter so as to bring about total unification, reconciliation and lasting peace amongst the Nagas”.
Religious intolerance Nagaland Page
Nagas were once head-hunters. It was considered to be a sport and a show of might and strength during those days. Gone were the days good warriors were decorated upon and were entitled to wear certain dresses which were not allowed for others.
But with the advent of Christianity into Naga soil, things have changed since. Today we profess ourselves to be Christian and our State a Christian state due to the fact that 90% plus are Christian. But how far we are living up to the Christian values is still questionable when all sorts of crimes and religious intolerances are prevalent and committed by us.
The recent demolition of a Catholic Church at Anatongre on July 9, 2010 is uncalled for. Any village authority/student body imposing restrictions on practice of other faith/religion except a particular faith in the name of 'peace and tranquility' is unconstitutional as Indian Constitution guarantees Freedom of Religion for all its citizens.
It was also in the year 2006; the Catholic Church of Chakhabama was pulled down by the villagers for the same reason. These incidences clearly depict how Christians we are or how we lead our lives as Christian.
When Graham Stains and his two sons were burnt alive in Orissa in the year 1999; and when Christians were attacked, churches, schools, orphanages and Christian run welfare institutions were vandalized in the year 2008 in Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala by VHP and Bajrang Dal activists, Naga Christians were shouting at the top of their voice in condemning them. But such kind of incidences as in Anatongre and Chakhabama need be examined whether we are living up to Christian values worth calling ourselves Christian to the outside world; for all our religious intolerances are also recorded and documented. We need to ask ourselves whether our own house is set in order as a Christian state.
If we Nagas profess ourselves to be Christian but still have such mindset; we still need to re-examine ourselves and search for our own souls and question ourselves whether we are 'true Christian living in a true Christina State'.
Neisievilie Joseph Lhousa, Merhulietsa (Para-Medical), Kohima

Kudos to our local media Nagaland Page
The local media has done a commendable job in drawing the attention of the authority in tackling the problem arising out of the July 9 incident at Anatongre village. The fourth estate has once again prevailed in upholding the ideals of our democracy.
The media stepped in when fundamental rights enshrined in the constitution was infringed at the village level by the village authority and when the district authority was unable to redress the issue.
The media gave prominence to the issue when it reached the authorities at the state level. It is difficult to understand how a responsible body like the Nagaland Baptist Church Council could term it as "blown out of proportion" without studying the "ground reality".
Issues concerning religious rights are very sensitive and acquire prominence very fast if not solved quickly. The image of our society will be damaged forever if issues of conflicts within Christians are to be addressed at the national or international level. Hasn't the local media intervened in time?
So far as ground realities are concerned, the joint council of Anatongre GBs, Anatongre Citizen Union and Anatongre Student's Union clarified that the Catholic church was demolished based on the strength of a resolution passed in 1991 which prohibits establishing church by various denominations other than the Baptist denominion. The fact that a resolution was made and the present Catholics (by then Baptists) of the village were also signatories in the resolution does not make the resolution a worthwhile ground reality.
I think the media is also keeping us readers well abreast of the ground realities. I came to learn though the media that considerable time has elapsed since the aggrieved party sought relief by approaching the Deputy Commissioner of Kiphire district on May 12, 2010. However due to the inaction of the district authority, the issue was not curbed and it took an ugly turn. It was only after the media intervened that the authorities acted.
The right to freedom is a constitutional right. Any resolution or understanding which goes against the law is unlawful. An agreement to carry out illegal activities is illegal. Therefore the resolution passed at Anatongre village in 1996 is null and void ab initio. It is very sad that the NBCC is still referring to "ground realities" and expressing resentment using the words "blown out of proportion". Let us not forget that we are part of a society larger and more complex. When shall we start thinking out of the box?
Mezhu Angami

Tribal forum on Manipur sectarianism morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The Tribal Peoples’ Forum Manipur (TPFM) takes cognizance of “systematically campaign” allegedly by a section of the Meitei community to ignite misunderstanding and conflicts between communities living in Imphal.
“TPFM is not surprised why the Home Department of Manipur Government, where O. Ibobi, who himself is a Meitei is the concerned minister categorically maintaining silence on the projection of one sided story of the bygone ugly scenes of the ethnic clashes events in Manipur at Manipur Press Club,” the forum stated in a note today. The forum did not say what the “ugly scenes” were at “Manipur Press Club” or when.
The forum explained in its own words: “The TPFM also not surprises why the so called Meitei civil societies like United Committee Manipur and All Manipur United Clubs Organisations who them claimed working for the integrity and social harmony of Manipur remain a mute spectators. This shows that Meitei chauvinism inhabits a strong importance in their ego-centric world. The really would be hard to absorb, but the truth is that these Meiteis are communal than what it looks and that, strengthened with a very narrow-mindedness, disturb the fabric of their sane reasoning.”
The forum queried: “Is Mr. O. Ibobi planning for another such conflict? Is this not a larger game plan of the involved so called Meitei people going haywire? If not why remains a silence and all his jawans commanded to remains mute spectators of these communally intended photos exhibition organised by the one such Meitei civil society? For whose and what interests?”
Stating to condemn “all type of killings,” the forum also condemned “any activity that promotes communalism and call upon Mr. O. Ibobi led Government to acts upon those responsible for creating discordant among the different communities.” http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/51684.html
Press Statement
Communal outlook strengthened by narrow-mindedness has disturb the fabric of their sane reasoning.
The Tribal Peoples’ Forum Manipur (TPFM) is detriment by continues and systematically campaign launched by section of Meitei community with their consistent activities to flares up misunderstanding and to create subsequence conflicts between the different communities living in Imphal. TPFM is not surprised why the Home Department of Manipur Government, where O. Ibobi, who himself is a Meitei is the concerned minister categorically maintaining silence on the projection of one sided story of the bygone ugly scenes of the ethnic clashes events in Manipur at Manipur Press Club.

TPFM also not surprises why the so called Meitei civil societies like United Committee Manipur and All Manipur United Clubs Organisations who them claimed working for the integrity and social harmony of Manipur remain a mute spectators. This shows that Meitei chauvinism inhabits a strong importance in their ego-centric world. The really would be hard to absorb, but the truth is that these Meiteis are communal than what it looks and that, strengthened with a very narrow-mindedness, disturb the fabric of their sane reasoning.
TPFM is pained to see a handful of Kukis who happy go-around with these these Meitei. It should note the thousands of Naga innocents were also slaughtered and butchered by the Kukis not only once. During Kukis Rebellion in 1917 – 19 armed by the Meitei Maharaja and again in Naga – Kukis Clash of 1990s. The zenith of Kuki barbarism were where exposed to the world when innocent bus loaded with full passengers were forcibly pushed down the deep gorge at NH 53, killing of innocent Nagas including children and women. Many houses burnt and immeasurable property and belonging were destroyed.
During Kuki – Paite clash of 1997 hundreds of innocents lives were lost, injured and countless standing properties were destroyed. Will these killing of innocents be held responsible Kuki National Organisations/Army, or any other kuki armed groups?
In 1993 Meitei – Pangal clashed, hundreds of innocent lives were slaughter and injured, where majority of the victims were Pangal. The clashed were ignited by wild rumors and misunderstanding spread by between the Meitei and Meitei Muslim. Can we say that United National Liberation Front (UNLF), or the Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) or any other Meitei armed groups be held responsible by displaying all the photos of slaughter victims in the heart of Meitei?
Many follow Indians (non-local) were mercilessly and brutally killed by the Meitei Armed Groups in name. Has such killing make sense to the Meitei people? If not why there remain silence till date?
Yes, except for the raped case of 21 Hmar women in Tipaimukh areas perpetrated cadres of UNLF and KCP combined, we term the clashed between different communities as the failure of the state and the state is sole responsible for all these happenings.
Is Mr. O. Ibobi planning for another such conflict? Is this not a larger game plan of the involved so called Meitei people going haywire? If not why remains a silence and all his jawans commanded to remains mute spectators of these communally intended photos exhibition organised by the one such Meitei civil society? For whose and what interests?
TPFM condemns all type of killings and no amount of justifications can convinced. We also condemn the any activity that promotes communalism and call upon Mr. O. Ibobi led Government to acts upon those responsible for creating discordant among the different communities.
H.RULENG
Member Secretary, TPFM
Tpf.manipur@gmail.com

Diplomacy At Its Worst By: S.Kunjabihari Singh
The state of imbroglio that has seized the state of Manipur consequent upon the economic blockade launched with effect from April 11, 2010, by the All Naga Student’s’ Association (ANSAM), against the holding of elections to the six autonomous district councils, has literally left Manipur starving for want of essential commodities. The United Naga Council (UNC), apex body of Naga community, true to their sense of patriotism and element of solidarity, thought it wise not to be left out and promptly lent support to the indefinite blockade.Initially, the blockade was taken in light vein, on the presumption that it would pass away sooner than later, like in the case of scores of such blockades, after the two warring groups sort out matters. Of course, one still recalls with bitterness, the shivering toll of sufferings from the 52-days economic blockade imposed by the All Tribal Students of Manipur (ATSUM) and other Naga Civil Society Organizations ways back in 2005,(June 20-August 11).This time around, the blockade which already is in its 50th day, has not relented a bit. It has, on the other hand got intensified gripping the length and breathe of the state to a grapping hold of untold sufferings.

The supplementing force was not ,like in the past, any further dose for additional solidarity from sister organizations of the Nagas.It was basically a fall out of a bit of over enthusiastic diplomacy played by the Government of India. The severity of the blockade intensified on the wake of the Government of India’s unconditional assent to the proposed visit of Mr Th.Muivah,the high profile General Secy,of NSCN(IM) to his native village in Somdal,in Ukhrul district of Manipur and simultaneous denial of the proposed entry of Mr.Muivah to the soil of the state, let alone his home district, by a recalcitrant Government of Manipur. The situation further worsened on the face of an over bearing Muivah proceeding towards the border town of Mao on May,3,and camping at an adjacent village Viswema in Nagaland,some 19 km from Mao,the border town of Manipur, admittedly on way to Manipur waiting for an opportune time to sneak into the state, the subsequent sealing of the entry points with a huge deployment of forces by the GOM, the up- rise of the Naga communities against the ban of the government not only in Mao, but throughout the Naga inhabited districts, further intensified the economic blockade, coupled with the burning down of government properties and private trucks bringing in commodities from outside the state.

As it turned out, the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India were in the midst of their schedule “peace talk” in the last week of May, in New Delhi, when the General Secy. mooted the idea of visiting his birth place in the village of Somdal, that he had not seen the village for 40 odd years, that he could not be there when his parents passed away, that he would miss the opportunity to do so and such other personal reasons. The Home Minister who had understandably, intend to go along smoothly in the protracted negotiation with the NSCN (IM), could not be more than happy to sing a positive note and should have assured facilitation of the trip to Manipur, sensing a ready opportunity to appease the Nagas.This conjecture came out to be true when, in the Rajya Sabha in the midst of political fallout on the issue, the Home Minister clarified, on May 6,that since the GOM refused permission to entry of Muivah,the Centre would take care of the issue. He continued asserting that one (Muivah) wished to visit his homeland and the appropriate authority had refused permission. The tone and the context were indicative of the inherent tact for appeasing the General Secy. of the NSCN (IM) conveniently forgetting the likely fallout of the public meetings which the Naga leader would be addressing. On April 30, when the idea of visiting his birth place was shared, it was clearly expressed his desire to have consultative meetings in Naga-inhabited areas, meaning the 4 districts of Manipur during May 3 to 10.Reportedly, the MHA sent a draft itiniery to the Chief Secretary and the DGP, Manipur for necessary security tie-up, which the later promptly declined to undertake under instructions of the GOM. What exactly transpired in the crucial peace talk in the MHA could not be ascertained.However; the chain of developments that followed it amply clearly showed that there could be a hidden agenda in the proposed trip. The CPI (M) clearly conjectured in writing to the Prime Minister on May 6, on the issue, when it’s General Secretary, Mr.A.B.Bardhan, said, “Apparently Mr.Muivah’s visit to Manipur is intended to be a journey to his birthplace, but, in the context of the NSCN’s fight for Nagalim, for greater Nagaland, this innocent visit is pregnant with serious consequence.” This underlying issue should not have been downplayed by the MHA, in their anxiety to please the Nagas,if only the MHA did not fail to forget the upheaval in the state in June,2001, in the context of extending the ceasefire beyond Nagaland,without territorial limit, when Imphal literally burnt and was turned into a fortified military zone. Not only that, the GOI had to face the ignonemity of quickly correcting the infamous Joint Declaration of 14 June,2001(Bangkok Declaration)by promptly deleting the offending phrase-“without territorial limit” when normalcy returned to the State.

What the MHA, was considered to have overstretched their policy of appeasement, could be viewed from a few governing factors then in play in the state.

i) they didn’t think it wise to keep the Government of Manipur into confidence, when they showed a green signal to the proposed visit, nothwithstanding the fact that law and order matter in the state is the state government’s exclusive preserve and, therefore, any such visit by a person of Muivah’s complicity should be cleared only after a formal clearance of the state.Unfortunately, this didn’t happen. On the contrary, after the assent of the MHA to the NSCN (IM) and their announcement of the trip thereby meaning informal arrangement for the trip, the state was informed for adequate facilitation.

ii) at that point of time the Naga community, through their various groups, were in confrontation with the Government of Manipur, starting from he first week of April,to demand withholding the election to the District Councils. This demand and the ensuing blockade was largely considered to be a tacit ploy of a wider game-plan of the NSCN (IM); and any facilitation of the General Secretary for addressing the NAGA DOMINATED AREAS in the state,at such a crucial stage would cause insurmountable law and order concerns and would be obviously detrimental to the tranquility in the state.

iii) address by Mr. Muivah would centre on the formation of Nagalim and the implied corollary of merging all Naga-inhabited areas in the state including that of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.Such a move that would entail annexation of the 4 districts of Senapati,Tamenglong,Chandel and Ukhrul,from the present state of Manipur. This issue is very sore to the people of the mainland and would not pass off smoothly, as happened on 18 June,2001,in Imphal.The GOI gave their consent to extending the territorial limit of the Cease-fire, beyond Nagaland through clause 1. of the Joint Statement between the GOI and the NSCN,which read “The cease-fire agreement between the Government of India and the NSCN as two entities without territorial limits”,in the Bangkok declaration signed by Mr Th. Muivah,General Secretary,NSCNand Mr.Padmanabhaiah,Representative of the GOI,on 14 June,2001.The news reached the state by 16-17 May and the spontaneous uprising culminated in the death of 18 people, killed in the aftermath of the retaliation by the government to contain the situation when the Assembly Secretariat, the CM’s office, a dozen residential quarters of Ministers, all in the high security zone in Imphal were reduced to ashes by a mass uprising of people. With this bitter background in mind, any government for that matter, more so the State Government won’t, under any cirmstances, agree to be a party to creating a platform for a repeat of the episode.

The state government displayed matured statesmanship by repeatedly refusing to bulge to the pressure of the GOI.Initially when the GOM declined to yield to the pressure of MHA,the CM was flown to N Delhi by a special plane to face further pressure not less than members of the Core Committee-the FM,the DM and the HM.The CM didn’t bulge citing law and order issue and the likely turmoil in the valley as well as the Hills and the possibility of communal overturns that would ultimately emerge not only between the Nagas and the Meiteis but also with the Kukis,a formidable community sore with the Nagas who had during the so-called ethnic cleansing exercise in the early nineties succeeded in wiping out the Kukis from four hill districts to stake claim of only- Naga- dominated districts, a game-plan widely considered to be hatched with the knowledge of Mr.Muivah..Even though the Visit was stalled for the time being, and Muivah still insisting on the proposed road trip to the state, a tense situation still prevailed. Despite this impossible situation, the MHA thought it wise to depute a high level GOI team in the persons of .Mr GK.Pillai, Secy.MHA and the new interlocutor Mr. R .S. Pandey to Imphal to persuade the GOM to soften their stand.In the process he himself had committed that the GOI had made it clear that the integration of Naga inhabited areas was out of question. He was also recorded as asserting, “Because we don’t want more problems we have to find imaginative solutions to try and deal with this type of questions. I think his demand or his request to go to his home village is something which could have been accepted.” The centre apprehended a potential setback in the peace process and expected GOM to show ‘large-heartedness’ and welcome Mr.Muivah,conveniently sidelining the imminent backlash in the state.

At one point of time,Mr.P.Chidambaram,Minister of Home Affairs, in a clear twist of the developments, was quoted as asserting ‘nobody has accorded permission to the entry of Mr. Muivah into Manipur’, according to a news report of the CNN-IBN on May 17.The news channel had telecasted an interview with the Union Home Minister and pointedly asked if he (Home Minister) still considered that it was fair on the part of the Union Government to have shown green signal to the proposed visit without prior consultation with the GOM.But again, there was another twist three days later when the Home Minister defended the center’s decision to allow Mr.Muivah and his entourage to visit his native village in Manipur saying it was done to ‘resolve the old and vexed Naga problem’. Elaborating on the philosophy of the on-going peace-talk, he asserted that the peace talk initially started on August 1, 1977 and in the long process of 13 years, a number of hard decisions had to be taken, and yet quite a few obstacles were encountered.True,the NSCN had softened from their earlier stand of Sovereignty and third country venue, confining to a Greater Nagaland and some kind of autonomy. The UPA government had in the proceeding two months of the latest peace talk, had worked hard to pave for a smoother platform for dialogue, urging Mr Muivah to come to India with an Indian Passport, which offer got stiff resistance from them so far, but was accepted then and thus paved ways for a more open and congenial dialogue.Phillosophising on the nature of complexity in the Indo-Naga Peace Talk, the setbacks faced, he asserted that attempts had to be made to come to an end to this protracted talk and in the process had to face setbacks on one or two issues, and the government had to bear with such upheavals. In the midst of the softening of respective stands in the common platform, Mr.Muivah expressed his long cherished desire to see his home village. As an act of reciprocal appeasement, the NSCN was assured that the centre would try to facilitate the trip. It was thus the whole episode got started Despite the GOM’s firm denial to the trip, after several protracted consultations in New Delhi, in Imphal and having realized the ramifications on the ground, the Home Minister still asserted, “The Union Government did the right thing.”Continuing, he said, “We will be able to do so in future, government being proactive in trying to resolve these issues and ensure that they were suitably dealt with.” Justifying the center’s decision, he added, “To resolve these issues, he took the decision”,a negation of his stand in the CNN-IBN interview.
Developments in the past and subsequent days reinforced the kind of unilateral approach of the centre. The April 29 message of the MHA to the Chief Secretary of Manipur was conspicuous by its clarity of and authority to the unilateral decision, again as a piece of diplomacy. It said Mr. Muivah would leave Delhi by an Air India morning flight and reach Dimapur via Kolkata.The message continued that the Naga leader would be in Somdal between May 3 and May 7.The rest is history by now. The big decision of the GOI could not be implemented for some slippage in the process, despite being well-intended.
Well, diplomacy is quite a different plate for the common man. It is as deceptive as it actually tries to convey. The saying goes-“When a lady says ‘No’, she means ‘May Be’; when she says, ‘May Be’, she means ‘Yes’. If she says,’Yes’, she is not a lady. In a similar vein, a Diplomat’s assertions are best taken in an analytical form. When he says, ‘Yes’, he means, ‘May be’; when he says, ‘May be’, he may in effect mean, ‘No’. If the Diplomat by sheer chance happens to utter, ‘No’, he is not a Diplomat.And, yes these are standard protocols of diplomacy and one can justify the stand, whichever ways the finger points and these are within the acceptable practices. Worst for worse, if placed in an uncomfortable corner, still they could indulge in another practice in vogue, be ‘ambiguous’, and still go for another cover-‘-shift the topic.’

Whatever have happened, the intelligentsia feels that there had been a slippage somewhere which could have been avoided to the comfort of three groups-the GOI, the GOM and the NSCN that possibly brackets Nagaland too. The GOI is apprehensive of revoking the assurance earlier accorded, formal or otherwise, to the NSCN,at the expense of the arch of Mr. Muivah.In the unlikely event of calling off the trip by the centre, such a step, would for sure, cause a backlash from the Naga fraternity not only throughout the 4 hill districts in Manipur but also in major areas of Nagaland. The aftereffect would be disastrous, Manipur facing the brunt of it. We can’t do anything at this stage but watch the fallout of this ‘diplomacy’.
India: The Korean Cultural Wave In Nagaland byAyesha Saldanha Global Voices
Yimchunger Naga woman at the morung of Kutur village. Image via Flickr user Retlaw Snellac. CC BY-SA
Nagaland is a state in Northeast India, bordering Burma. The population of Nagaland, almost two million people, is tribal and the majority is Christian. Some Nagas feel disconnected - “racially, historically, culturally, politically” - from India, and have been fighting to protect the “unique identity” of the Naga people from mainstream Indian influence. Nevertheless, a different culture has been making an impact in Nagaland in recent years - that of Korea.
The term “Korean Wave” refers to the popularity of Korean culture around the world, but particularly throughout Asia. It has become a noticeable phenomenon in other parts of Northeast India such as Manipur. At community media initiative IndiaUnheard, Renchano Humtsoe has produced a video report highlighting concerns about the growing influence of Korean culture in Nagaland. She writes:
Korean culture is flooding into Nagaland. New trade treaties between India and Korea facilitated the exchange of Korean goods and enabled them to enter Nagaland with greater ease. Additionally, Nagas have long felt neglected by the central Indian government. This is especially the case with Naga youth. Many believe this lack of identity with central India informs Nagas’ embrace of Korean culture. […] Naga youth have now started to adapt Korean culture. Korean television channels, programs, movies, and clothes are popular among Naga youth. Korean companies are looking into investing in Nagaland. The Nagaland State Government has even taken steps to embrace Korean culture: it hosts an annual Indian-Korean cultural festival. However, this wave of Korean culture threatens traditional Naga customs. […] Traditional Naga culture is unique. Nagaland is comprised of sixteen tribes. Each tribe uses a unique language and has its own rich cultural traditions of dance, song, festivals and other key features. Korean culture’s strong pull on young Nagas will make it more difficult to preserve Nagaland’s important tradition and identity.
Writing at GroundReport, Stella Paul, the Communications Director for Video Volunteers (the organisation which established IndiaUnheard) talks about Renchano's video:
The most watched TV channel in the state is the Korean channel Arirang TV, the DVD and CD shops are bursting with Korean films, the hottest hair-dos offered by salons are the ones flaunted by popular Korean actors and actresses, shops are selling street fashion that are currently in vogue in Korea, cultural events in the state has special ‘Korean songs’ contests, sport events now have categories like ‘Korean wrestling’.
Otojit Kshetrimayum, Assistant Professor in Sociology in Sikkim University, in collaboration with Ningombam Victoria Chanu, writes an in-depth analysis of the nature of the diffusion of Korean popular culture through Korean satellite channels, music and movies in neighbouring Manipur state:
The introduction of cable television network has played a significant role in the dissemination of culture to other societies. [..] The Korean satellite channel Arirang is the harbinger of Korean wave in Manipur. Its popularity began largely due to the ban on Hindi satellite channels, which used to be the favourite channels of the Manipuris. They started to look for an alternative channel, which could give them wholesome entertainment.
Otojit writes about the Hindi channel ban:
Hindi films and Hindi television channels, except national channel DDTV, which is under the state control, were banned by one of the underground revolutionary organizations of Manipur in the year 2000.
According key factor is the cultural proximity theory, which explains that media productions from culturally affiliated countries have greater reception than those from more culturally distanced countries. According to Otojit, North Indian tribes have many elements of culture in common with the Koreans.
At The Marmot's Hole, a blog about topics related to Korea, Robert Koehler has watched Renchano's report and writes: Somehow, I don’t think [TV presenter] Lisa Kelley ever expected to show up on Youtube as the face of Korean cultural imperialism.
He adds: Of course, when [the Naga] are ready to be truly Korean, they’ll ditch Arirang TV in favor of NCIS and CSI: Miami.
Commenting on the post, Pvrhye says: Any time I see people talking about “maintaining” the culture of an area from the voluntary action of those within the culture, I looks to me like outsiders like their quaint little villagers to play dress-up for them. If these kids don’t want to dress like their grandmother dressed, that’s pretty well the reality everywhere. If you want to maintain your culture, think about what really defines it and find a way to modernize that. The alternative is getting overwhelmed by people who do.
Another commenter, abcdefg, looks at why Korean culture is popular:
Korea is like the bibimpop of pop culture. One discerns a little bit of Japanese here, some American there; some bits of suburban stuff here, some 90s rap stuff there; some Korean seasoning here, some East Asian zeitgeist stuff there. Lots of various genetic muses compose Korean pop, and at this point as an admixture it seems to have gained its own identity; its elements aren’t unique but altogether it has its own sort of flavor.
The reason Kpop culture is catchy among other Asians? Because, it’s basic. The social values Kpop espouses are materialistic, shallow, and sexual. When a product appeals to such basic things, it is fulfilling. One can also say that Kpop is popular because it is the most compatible with modern American culture and as such it is the most identifiable to those who have been encultured under America and its Hollywood.
So, is there a real reason for concern about Korean influence on Naga culture? Is such influence an inevitable part of “globalisation”? Or is this just the latest fad that will pass in time? What do you think?
Timber seizure establishes Myanmar link Staff reporter ASSAM Tribune
GUWAHATI, July 24 – Customs officials today formally completed the seizure process of the 42 railway wagonloads of illegal timber at the Bamunimaidam BG yard. The value of the timber, mostly teak and pinewood, is valued at around Rs 80 crore.
A customs official said that the unloading of the timber continued well into the night as it was a huge consignment. “We are completing the official formalities and the timber would be handed over to the Railways. The seizure has been done under Section 110of the Customs Act-1962,” he added.
The official said that the seizure established the Myanmar connection of smuggled wood in which the North-east was often used as a conduit. “It had often been doubted for long that the illegal timber comes from Myanmar, but today it has been established. There is no hammer markingof the Forest Department which is mandatory for transit pass,” he said.
It was on Friday that in one of the biggest seizure of illegal trade in timber, customs officials had seized the huge consignment staked in 42 railway wagons in Guwahati.
The timber was meant for sale to 25-odd buyers in New Delhi’s Nangloi region for the timber industry there. The customs officials had come to learn about the illegal consignment on July 10.
Than Shwe Visit Condemned in Letter to Indian PM Irrawaddy News
July 24, 2010: Civil society groups based in India sent a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday to protest an upcoming state visit to the country by the head of Burma's ruling junta, Snr-Gen Than Shwe.
The letter, submitted by the Burma Center Delhi (BCD) and signed by 38 civil society organizations and 71 individuals, says that “Than Shwe does not represent the people of Burma but only the military regime. India should not work freely with the military regime.”
Dr. Alana Golmei, the coordinator of BCD, said, “India is the world's largest democracy and also stands against violations of human rights. [This visit] is not acceptable because Than Shwe is one of the worst dictators in the world.”
The letter also urged the Indian prime minister to push the Burmese regime to release detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners, begin a dialogue with ethnic leaders, review the 2008 Constitution, and ensure a free and fair election.
“We need to take this opportunity to urge the government of India to show stronger support for the Burmese people. We believe that the situation will be worse after the military government's election,” said Golmei.
The US, which has growing ties with India, also called on New Delhi to put pressure on the Burmese regime during Than Shwe's five-day visit, which will begin on Sunday.
“We would encourage India and other countries to send a clear message to Burma that it needs to change its course,” US State Department spokesman Philip Crowley said on Friday.
The Indian government's decision to welcome Than Shwe also came under fire from the International Federation for Human Rights, which represents 164 organizations around the world. On Wednesday, the federation sent a letter to the Indian prime minister protesting the visit.
Meanwhile, sources in Bodh Gaya, an important Buddhist religious site that Than Shwe is expected to visit during his stay in India, say that the walls and trees around the Mahabodhi Temple and along the way to Burmese Monastery have been covered with protest messages and photographs of monk-led demonstrations that the regime brutally crushed in September 2007.
“We don't know who posted these notes, but some Burmese security personnel and Buddhist nuns are now removing them,” said a monk in Bodh Gaya. “It also seems that we will not be allowed to enter the temple compound when he arrives.”
Some monks at the Burmese Monastery have reportedly decided to refuse to accept offerings from the junta leader, as a form of protest against his role in ordering the deadly crackdown on the 2007 uprising.
Than Shwe's visit to India will start on July 25 to 29 and is expected to include meetings with President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, External Affairs Minister SM Krishna and other senior officials.
He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including three ministers—Minister for National Planning & Economic Development Soe Tha, Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung and Commerce Minister Tin Naing Thein—and other senior officials.
According to India's Financial Express newspaper, the Burmese ministers will address captains of Indian industry at a roundtable meeting on July 27 to seek enhanced investments.


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