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03/14/2011: "Indian Army develops serious differences with Govt Gets defiant at orders of conducting operation in civilian border area"

Indian Army develops serious differences with Govt
Gets defiant at orders of conducting operation in civilian border area

–India Home Secretary holds special parleys to convince Eastern Commander Gen. Bikram Singh
From Christina Palmer
NEW DELHI- The Indian Army leadership has once again developed serious differences with the government and this time it is not over some amendments in Armed Forces controversial Act in Occupied Kashmir but now the Army leadership has straight away refused to obey the Central government’s orders to carry out a military operation in some districts in the areas bordering with Myanmar, reveal the latest findings of THE DAILY MAIL.
According to THE DAILY MAIL’S investigation last month, Indian Minister for Home Affairs, P. Chidambaram, directly approached the Commander of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army, Lt. Gen. Bikram Singh and directed him to carry out an operation to crush the clashing factions of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) in the border districts of Tirap and Changlang in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh.
These investigations further indicate that General Bikram straight away refused the directions and stated that he was there to follow the directions from Army Headquarters in New Delhi and not to follow any instruction from the Minister of Home Affairs.
Sources at the Army Headquarters here in New Delhi say that soon after this development, General Bikram Singh reported the matter to the Headquarters in New Delhi. Taking a serious notice of the development, Indian Army Chief, General V.K. Singh took up the matter with the government and showed his utter displeasure over the issue and very strongly refused to carry out any such operation.
These sources further said that General Singh made it clear to the government that an army operation in the said districts was not possible at all because the said areas do not fall under the Disturbed Areas Act.
THE DAILY MAIL’S investigations indicate that after this rude reply from General Singh, the Indian government decided to yield to the Home Secretary G.K Pillai, who is considered to be having deep relations with the Army top brass and the establishment as he proved it by making a controversial statement at the crucial stage of the Pak-India talks in Islamabad last year, at the behest of the Indian Army and the establishment while the foreign ministers of both the countries were holding negotiating in Islamabad.
The investigations also reveal that after Pillai’s involvement in the matter, the Army leadership asked Pillai to get a favourable report from General Bikram Singh to carry out an operation. The investigations further indicate that after this development, Home Secretary Pillai flew to Kolkata, to resolve the tricky situation.
The sources said that Pillai was holding a closed-door meeting with Lt. Gen. Bikram Singh, to find a way out to seek the Army’s help, without declaring the areas as “disturbed” under the Disturbed Areas Act.
The Home Secretary will also be seeking stepping up a vigil by the Assam Rifles on the India-Mayanmar border in the wake of reports of arms being supplied to insurgent groups from Thailand via Myanmar.
The government wants to ensure that there is comprehensive border patrolling by the Assam Rifles. A National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe has pointed out that the alleged chief arms procurer for the insurgent group NSCN (I-M), Anthony Shimray, had been conspiring with arms dealers in Thailand to procure large quantities of arms and ammunition to carry out “terrorist activities” in India.
Home ministry officials, however, stressed that Pillai was conducting a general review of the security scenario in the eastern region.
Government sources, meanwhile, pointed out that the Army holds the view that the NSCN clashes, resulting in more than 30 causalities, should be largely treated as a law and order problem. An official said Pillai is expected to work out a “solution” to the problem to restore peace in the area. An option under which the state government may requisition the Army “to aid the civil authorities” in the two districts is being looked at, the official said.
Over 35 cadres of the Isak-Muivah and Khaplang factions of the NSCN were killed on the night of February 24-25 on the Tirap-Burma border. This was the largest clash in the ongoing conflict between the two groups since December last year. The two factions are already observing a ceasefire agreement with the government where they are supposed to keep their cadres in designated camps and deposit their arms.
Leaders urged to serve people OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima,: Former Nagaland PCC president and MLA K.V. Pusa said as all human beings had weaknesses, politicians, who were always in the line of fire for corruption and lack of honesty, were no exceptions.
Speaking at the Nagaland Day of Prayer and Fasting organised by Nagaland Baptist Church Council here last evening, Pusa, however, argued that it was not that only politicians faced corruption charges. The people, and even spiritual leaders, could be tempted at times to commit such sins. “There are three different types of worldly sins, as cited in 1John 2:16 — lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life,” said the Congress leader, quoting the Holy Gospel.
He urged the Naga people to pray for those in authority so that they may humble themselves not only before God, but also before men, and added that in most instances, abuse of authority takes place when those in authority override the rights of those under them.
Pusa said according to the Bible, greatness comes from serving and not from ruling. Quoting from Mathew 23:11, he said: “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.”
He said if the people in authority, be it in politics, the church or any other organised institution, had this servant-of-the-people attitude rather than ruler-of-the-people attitude, society would be far better off than it was now.
Quoting from 1Timothy 2:1-3, he said: “First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanks be offered on behalf of all people, even for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. Such prayer for all is good and welcomed before God our Saviour.”
He said when those in authority do their part in fear of God the whole community would be able to enjoy a quiet life of peace where there would be godliness and honesty.
He said the reason why Nagas were not united was because leaders were not humbling themselves before one another.
“Let us pray that all our people, especially those in authority in different political organisations, will humble themselves. This will not only result in our unity but it will also surely solve our protracted political problems,” he said.
‘The DAN hype Vs the truth’
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Dimapur, March 13 (MExN): The Congress is unconvinced by the hype about the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) government bringing to Nagaland “enormous developments.” Corruption and scandals, endless financial ‘deficits’ and funds surrounding only people in power characterize the true picture of Nagaland and her people today, a Pradesh Congress Committee member opine in an article today.
PCC member Sevotso Seyie said in the article that Nagaland’s budget session for 2011-12 is approaching and the public now needs to analyze the promises and policies of the government. “It is the common people who are bearing the brunt of all the government’s misappropriation expenditures, deficit and liability and suffers silently. It is the common people who are reeling under untold hardship and pain,” Seyie stated.
PCC member unconvinced by slogan of ‘enormous developments’
So much is talked about the DAN government, bringing enormous developments to every nook and corner of the state during 8 years of DAN’s rule, he said.
“Although, Nagaland is one of the first attainment of statehoods amongst the smaller 10 states yet, it is far lacking behind other contemporary states in almost all the human socio-economic and resources developments and in good-governance is unfortunate,” he said.
As far as the truth in concerned, the PCC member stated, the government has been reeling under all sorts of scams, corruption, omission and commission, deficits and liabilities ‘and malfunctioning’. “Under the DAN government, abuse of power, violation of established rules, rampant misuse and blatant diversion of development funds and corrupt-practices have become a normal system, a pride, a privilege and a way of life.” To the DAN’s credit, the Congress said, “we have so many scams such as Bogus teachers’ appointment scam, Coal scam, NSMVR scam, Road scam, Transport subsidy scam, NPSE scam and MNREGS scam etc. which are being kept safely under the cold storage of the present day DAN government and the public demand for justice has become a far cry.”
The PCC member also echoed general sentiments in his stating that generally the state’s funds seem to revolve around only those in power, their coterie and a handful of privileged elite class, which forms hardly 5% of the society’s population. “So, when nearly 95% of the society’s population is at the mercy of those privileged elite class of society, one cannot claim or proclaim that our society is progressing in human socio-economic sphere. More importantly, when the funds meant for development of the state and circulation within the society is being completely accumulated away or diverted away for private investments in Kohima, Dimapur and elsewhere in other parts of the country only, instead of circulating within the society, definitely and there can’t be room for required level of human resources development too.”
Besides, the article said, various government commissioned bodies and committees on various occasions have clearly pointed out that the DAN government is under huge financial and development deficit; rampant misuse and blatant diversion of funds; corruption at all levels or termed DAN government as scandalous and farcical.
The DAN government has been vetted for various lapses in the implementation of schemes, Seyie stated.
“Although, Nagaland is one of the first attainment of statehoods amongst the smaller 10 states yet, it is far lacking behind other contemporary states in almost all the human socio-economic and resources developments and in good-governance is unfortunate. Therefore, it is high time to be honest and look beyond the horizon of mere proclamation and emotional out-burst.”

A vibrant Nagaland of diverse tribes, cultures, colour Pratibha Patil Morungexpress

President Pratibha Devisingh Patil along with her husband being felicitated during a public reception at Kisama on March 10,2011. Also seen in the picture is Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. (Sorei Mahong Photo)

I am delighted to be in Kohima, the beautiful capital of Nagaland. The warm, colorful and proud population of this State along with its immense natural beauty has made an everlasting impression on me. I have visited Nagaland before, however, this is my first visit as President, and I convey my greetings and best wishes to the people of Nagaland.
On account of its mountains, picturesque landscape, forests and greenery, Nagaland is often referred to as the “Switzerland of the East”. The majestic peaks Saramati and Japfu, which has the tallest Rhododendron tree in the world, I am sure will inspire people to scale new heights of progress and achieve new levels of prosperity. Already a land where there are festivals for every season, development and growth can further add greatly to the many joyous celebrations. In fact, the famous Hornbill Festival held every year in this heritage village of Kisama, not only showcases the rich traditions of Nagaland, but is also a celebration of the potential for the future.
Since attaining Statehood in 1963, Nagaland has made significant progress. Even though development started under very challenging circumstances, much has been achieved over the years in different fields. With only less than a thousand kilometers of road then, it now has more than 11, 000 kilometers of roads. From just 6 electrified villages then, today there are more than 1100 villages, which receive electricity. The literacy rate has reached an impressive 66.6 percent and life expectancy is at about 73 years. Nagaland excels in many social indicators as compared to national averages. I compliment you for these achievements and urge that you continue advancing on the path of development and peace.
It is important to remember that development needs peace and stability, so that the people can devote their energy to cultural, educational, social and economic development. Every individual wants a life of peace, economic and personal security, and a life of dignity. I would, therefore, call on each and every one to ensure an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. With its natural resources and a conducive atmosphere, Nagaland can aspire to become one of the leading states of the North East. People must work together as one unit, whatever tribe they are from, whatever region they may come from, and whatever community they may belong to, so that a vibrant Nagaland is created. A vibrant Nagaland shall add to the overall progress of the nation.
Our nation is moving ahead. Today, India is counted amongst one of the major economies of the world. Our objective is to have a high economic growth rate and to have an inclusive growth process. Measures that promote inclusiveness are very important for a country as large as India. Growth must reach all sections of society and all regions of the country. The accelerated development of the North-Eastern region, which has contributed much to the richness of the nation, is fundamental for the country’s economic rise. Nagaland is very much part of this process.
I would like to emphasize on the development of physical infrastructure, particularly transport connectivity, which is a key prerequisite for economic development. Moreover, Nagaland should harness its resources and its many potential areas of growth. Agriculture has a significant share in the State’s domestic product. I strongly believe that food security is a very important objective, and a focus on enhancing agricultural productivity through better seeds, better technology and better water management is essential for a sustainable and secure future. The State Government should aim to do away with the ‘slash and burn’ method of jhum cultivation, and move towards improved sustainable land-based means of livelihood. Natural and forest wealth are amongst the assets of Nagaland. Better management of forests, which have a wide diversity of flora and fauna including medicinal plants, can generate social, economic and environmental benefits, It is important to build capacity for undertaking forest based enterprises in a manner that while using forest resources, forest health is preserved, and its wild-life and bio-diversity are conserved.
Building of human resources will bring a large dividend to the State. Earlier today, I had the opportunity to interact with some Tribal Hohos, NGOs and representatives of civil society. I was impressed with my discussions with them, as also with their desire to work for the welfare of the State with a spirit of confidence. The quality of people, determines the direction and the vision for future growth. Hence, there should be substantial investment in human capital. Education is the gateway to opportunity. It equips the people to deal adeptly with challenges, and to bring new and innovative ways of handling situations and issues. Education, therefore, must continue to receive high priority in the State’s agenda, as should making available quality health facilities for the people. A healthy citizenry is more productive, and healthy individuals can better achieve their full potential. Equally important is to impart to the people, skills that are required in a community. Horticulture, seri-culture, small scale industries, service industries and IT are sectors of promise in the State. Their full development will depend on trained personnel. Even bamboo, which provides the soul for traditional architecture, crafts and implements, can benefit from skill building and scientific development.
The handicrafts and traditions of Nagaland are unique. They are a priceless part of the nation’s heritage. Hence, their preservation and continuation are important. The Kisama Heritage village seeks to promote respect for tribal culture, as also to preserve the varied cultural ethnic heritage, by providing a platform where the dialects, customs and traditions of all ethnic tribes of Nagaland can be seen. I am told that Naga dormitories - Morungs - of each tribe, are constructed here with their distinctive architectural designs, offering also an opportunity for the youth of one tribe to learn more about other tribes. If India is a country that epitomizes the concept of ‘unity in diversity’, then the North-East is its most visible embodiment. Among the North-Eastern states, Nagaland has the distinction of being a land of diverse tribes, cultures, colour and variety.
I would like to add that regional integration, drawing on regional commonalities and pooling together of regional resources, can result in maximization of benefits. I am pleased that the North-Eastern Region is pursuing Vision 2020 for its development, and also has a Regional Council. Moreover, this region stands strategically placed at the doorstep of the nations of South East Asia, and can play a crucial role in the development and effective fructification of our “Look East Policy”. This will provide economic benefits to Nagaland also. Increased connectivity with the nations to the East of India, would open the scope for investment and tourism, including eco-tourism and culture tourism in the North-¬Eastern states, a sector which has not really so far performed to its potential.
Once again, I convey my greetings and good wishes to all the people of Nagaland. We respect the people of Nagaland and their culture. I am touched by, the warm welcome and colourful reception you have accorded me. I would also like to thank the Governor, the Chief Minister and the Government of Nagaland. I am now greatly looking forward to the cultural performance here. On my return to New Delhi, I will be witnessing a cultural programme of all the tribes of India at PRAKRITI, a national level tribal festival- there too, I will get another opportunity to see the dances of Nagaland.

Thank you. Jai Hind!
(The above is the full text of President of India Pratibha Patil’s speech delivered at Kisama Heritage village on March 10, 2011)
Nagas not united because leaders not humble: K V Pusa morungexpress
Kohima, (MExN): Former President of Pradesh Congress Committee and MLA, K V Pusa said all human beings have weakness and that politicians were always in the line of public fire for corruption and lack of honesty. Speaking at the Nagaland Day of Prayer and Fasting, organized by Nagaland Baptist Church Council yesterday, Pusa however argued that charges of corruption was not specifically related only to politicians but which also included ordinary people and spiritual leaders which could be tempted in all areas of sin.
He cited that there are three different natures of worldly sins that are cited in 1John Chapter 2:16 namely: lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life the congress leader cited from the Holy Gospel. He said as much as people are tempted in these areas people also want you to pray for them so that they will be able to overcome all temptations. He also urged Naga people to pray for those in authority so that they may humble themselves not only before God but also before men adding that in most instances abuse of authority takes place when those in authority override the rights of those under them. His statement includes all sections of people who were in the authorities.
Pusa said, according to the Scripture, greatness comes from serving and not from ruling quoting from Mathew 23: 11. “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. If I believe our people in authority, whether in politics or in the Church or any other organized institution, when we have this servant of the people attitude rather than ruler of the people attitude our society will go a long way for the better,” the Congress leader said.
He exhorted the gathering that first of all supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings and for all that are in authority; that we many lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty, adding that this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our saviour.
He said when those in authority are doing their part in the fear of God the whole community would be able to enjoy a quiet life of peace where there would be godliness and honesty. “We in Nagaland as a Christian state, have an advantage here because most of our people seated in the seats of authority are believers. But the question is do we pray,” he asked. He said another way of asking the same question in line with the exhortation by Paul would be, are our people living a life of quiet and peace? He asked whether there was godliness and honesty in Nagaland and asked people to judge for themselves and they would know whether they were lacking in prayer or not.
Pusa insisted that people would humble themselves before God and even before men. “When we humble ourselves I believe God will heal our land according to our theme scripture today taken from 2 Chronicles 7: 14,” he said.
He said people could see that the reason why Nagas were not united was because leaders were not humbling themselves before one another stating that Nagas would have no difficulty in uniting under one singular organization, if leaders humble themselves and began to act as servants of the people and not as rulers. “Let us pray that all our people especially those in authority, in different political organizations and outfits will humble themselves. This will not only result in our unity but it will also surely lead to the healing of our protracted political problem,” the congress leader said.

Naga Memos to President morungexpress
President Pratibha Patil’s two day visit to Nagaland was a tame affair compared to the visit of the ‘People’s President APJ Abdul Kalam Azad a few years ago. Therefore other than fulfilling her duties of visiting the States of the union during her tenure, nothing much should be expected from the President. In reality the office of the Indian President is only nominal and he or she can do little to help our cause even though the President may be recognized formally as the Head of the State. Whether it is the Indo-Naga peace process and the need to expedite it or the problems within Nagaland University and the demand for the ouster of its Vice Chancellor, it is the Government of India headed by the Prime Minister, which is the appropriate forum to discuss such issues. Nevertheless for the people in Nagaland, the President’s visit was an opportune time to spell out the many problems and grievances facing our State and people. It is interesting and also quite amusing to observe how a President’s visit is expected to solve our internal problems leave along other grievances. The failure till date of Nagas to come to a common platform is also not good for the peace process. The reconciliation process under the Forum for Naga Reconciliation is yet to bring the necessary resolution. And this is something that has to be tackled internally within ourselves.
The other noteworthy grievance brought to the notice of the President was the present imbroglio in the Nagaland University. It is fine and good for the Government of India to appoint another VC, which is also going to be the case now with the present incumbent whose ouster has been demanded for long, now about to end his tenure. Our experience shows that we have not been able to function our NU under two successive VCs. What is the problem really? Should all the blame and ills be put on the VCs? What is the guarantee that everything is now going to be okay under the new VC whoever that person could be? There appears to be an internal dimension to the decade old NU problem. This can only be resolved within us. Then a new agenda was added may be for the first time—the appeal made to the President to protect the Intangki National Park from rampant encroachment and destruction. There is nothing wrong in taking this agenda to the highest office in India. But what can far away Delhi do to protect Intangki and that too from our own Naga encroachers. It is not that another State is claiming right over the protected forest. It is we who are the culprits. At the end of the day, Intangki will also have to be resolved amicably within us.
No President or Prime Minister will be able to come to the rescue of our failures. As a society the need of the hour is to work together and find solutions to some of the impending problems that confront us. Many times problems remain unresolved because we are afraid to confront the truth or fail to respond to it. If we have the attitude of brushing everything under the carpet, then we will only allow our problems to grow. Unfortunately because we have failed to deal with them, Nagas have accumulated many problems. A collective effort is demanded. Whether it is reconciliation, peace process, Intangki, NU mess, we cannot depend on others alone. It is we who will have to take the initiative to solve our internal problems.