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07/05/2011: "Organizations flay Inavi killings morungexpress"

Organizations flay Inavi killings morungexpress
Dimapur, MExN): The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) and the Kachari Tribal Council (KTC) denounce the June 30 killing in Inavi village where gunmen killed two village leaders. Separate messages form the two organizations today appealed to the state government to act swiftly before retaliations worsen the issue, and to the people, to shun violence as a means of settling differences.
The message from the ENPO leaders said the organization is ‘deeply dismayed’ by the killing of the chairman and GB of Inavi village “in brutal manner.”
“The ENPO condemns the unfortunate incident and appeals to all concerned to refrain from taking law into their own hands, and to completely shun violence and amicably settle the matter in a peaceful and judicious manner,” the ENPO stated.
Likewise, the Kachari Tribal Council of Nagaland met on July 3 to discuss the Inavi killings. The members strongly denounced the crime, stating that any problem can be solved without having to shed blood.
“The meeting felt that the government should act fast and apprehend the perpetrators before the situation worsen due to retaliatory actions. The government should leave no stone unturned to find the reason behind the attack and find a solution to the problem that might be of any nature,” the KTC stated in its note.

Aphuyemi Sumi Küqhakulu, Kohima
The Aphuyemi Sumi Küqhakulu, Kohima has condemned the ‘murder’ of chairman Inashe and GB Vikeshe of Inavi village and injuring others and has termed the action as “cold-blooded”.
In a condemnation note appended by its president Vixepu T Swu and general secretary K A Jacob stated: “…it is clear that the way, the predators acted is to wipe out all the inhabitants from the village which is not acceptable in the civilized society. Their aims and objectives can never achieve, so the killing will bring more trouble than solving the problem. The killing is never justified what so ever the problem is.”
The note also stated that the government should take stern stand to “nip the bud” of any organisation which is sowing the seed of communal hatred in the society before it goes out of control.
“Any organization formed for the welfare of the society is not expected to commit such cowardice act. If such act of inhumane is committed on out people by any anti social element, we shall stand as one brother to protect out people whether they live in East, West, North or South,” it affirmed in the note.
Moreover, it has conveyed its condolence to the bereaved family and wished speedy recovery of the injured persons.

NSCN (Khaplang) points out ‘truth behind the expulsion’ morungexpress
DIMAPUR, (MExN): The National Socialist Council of Nagaland Khaplang group has issued a statement pointing out to what it termed as the “truth behind the expulsion of N. Kitovi Zhimomi from the NSCN/GPRN”. Stating this in a press note issued by its MIP, the NSCN Khaplang stated that with regard to the recent crisis in the NSCN/GPRN, “most Naga laymen would definitely be ignorant about the ground reality and the circumstances that culminated the event”. As such it explained that the “decision of Khehoi campers led by N. Kitovi Zhimomi to secede from the National mainstream political authority, NSCN/GPRN led by SS. Khaplang served as the final straw and it ultimately led to the expulsion of N. Kitovi Zhimomi and his cronies from the primary membership of NSCN as well from the GPRN’S Ato Kilonser’s Chair”.
The MIP note stated that various allegations on SS Khaplang’s leadership “inefficiencies, lack of political will etc are being propagated by Khehoi residents In-order to white wash it’s crime, inconsistencies and betrayal”. “However, the NSCN/GPRN as an august Naga people’s political platform feels it demeaning to respond to every senseless utterance by flock of desperate and frustrated criminals camping at Khehoi”. However it stated that in order to put the matter to rest, “the Nagas need to be told the facts that have for long being tackled in order to avoid this unfortunate showdown”.
According to the press note SS. Khaplang had been “advising N. Kitovi Zhimomi to uphold the dignity of Ato Kilonser’s Office and to preserve the national principles and ideologies upon which the NSCN/GPRN has been founded”. He even advised N.K Zhimomi to station far off from the madding crowd. So as not to dilute the sanctity of the task he has been entrusted with, stated the MIP note. “But unfortunately Mr Kitovi choose to ignore the wise counsel of his mentor and started isolating himself, it’s been almost 10 years that he remained incommunicado from the office/individual of NSCN/GPRN, president and chairman, SS Khaplang. It therefore requires no explanation as to who is at fault”, stated the MIP note.
Pointing out that the “programs, policies of the GPRN/NSCN were completely over ridden by N Kitovi Zhimomi and in many cases the NSCN/GPRN’S position were compromised”, the press note stated that for instance, in the past several state’s assembly elections of the Nagaland “N. Kitovi Zhimomi was instructed not to meddle in the petty Indian state politics, since the Nagas struggle is outside and above the purview of Indian constitution/state”. “But for his own benefits the national interest of the struggling Nagas were set aside and rubbished”, claimed the press note.
Stating that the “Nagas still being a struggling people in quest of freedom and liberation, as a revolutionary specially its leaders are expected to be a role model possessing integrity, morality, commitment to the cause and high political foresight, the comforts and luxury of an individual are to be completely set aside if the cause are to be pursued whole heartedly”.
However, it termed as unfortunate that for Kitovi “these things were very dear to him” and that the “question of him sacrificing all his luxurious living had been like asking him to commit suicide”. “The reality of having to be based in eastern Nagaland in the company of SS. Khaplang was too much a sacrifice for him”, it stated while adding that the “comforts of home, the splendor of Khehoi camp being in close proximity to Dimapur, the facilities of star hotels in Indian cities were his daily indulgences, drinking revelries of imported scotches, whiskies and wines, gambling, betting etc became his daily routine”.
“Thus, it is without doubt, that he has hardly any passion or commitment for the task he has been shouldering, at the same time his coteries mostly comprises of regular defectors, for instance - Azheto Chophi defected 8 (eight) times in between, became his political advisors, the stature of these collaborators speaks itself of selfish pursuits and materialistic desires at the expense of sincere national workers, innocent Naga masses and most importantly at the peril of Historical and political rights of the Nagas, for which thousands of Nagas has for decades been sacrificing”, the press note stated.
“It may precisely be concluded that ,despite, numerous of errors and blunders that has been committed as a leader, our focus is purely to salvage the Nagas struggle from the grip of such arrogant and egoistic leader who always prefer individual agendas and interest to that of Naga’s national interest”, the press note further added.
In the context of Gen. Khole’s elevation to the President’s chair of Khehoi camp, the MIP note stated that “rather than we comment, the Nagas may enlighten themselves from the very fact that almost 90% of Konyak population including the Vice-president, GPRN. Lt. Gen. Khango and all high ranking Army Commanders, Kilonsers, Tatars, Regional authorities etc has declared their loyalty to SS. Khaplang’s leadership”.
Moreover, it stated that “the Khehoi campers self-glorifying claims and accolades on certain Naga Army officers and camps being commanded by them having joined Khehoi is not even worthy of being noticed or mentioned, for these are the sections, who often and on regular basis like a chameleon changes colors at every possible opportunity switches loyalty, mostly bought and lured by money and higher ranks”.
It stated that “Maj. Atoshe Chophi (Athibung Desig. Camp), Maj. Shikaho (Sangphur Desig. Camp), including the latest defection even after the recent crisis is nothing new, they have so far for the 8(Eight) times changed loyalty in between the two NSCN’s”. Similarly, it stated that “Khehoi residents are all but from the same flock and uncertain even of oneself, therefore the NSCN/GPRN is least bothered”. “Our military formation remains intact and confident as ever and so is our Government policies, visions and commitment to the Nagas political struggle, ever steadfast”, it stated.
Abstract of the proceedings of the 3rd Tripartite Talk of GOI, GOM & UNC
Held on 30th June 2011 at Tahamzam (Senapati)

Delegation Members:
UNC
1. Sword Vashum, Chairman, Committee for Alternative Arrangement
2. L. Adani, Member Secretary, Committee for Alternative Arrangement
3. Mani Charenamei, Member, Committee for Alternative Arrangement
4. Ashinpou Gangmei, Member, Committee for Alternative Arrangement
5. K. S. Paul Leo, Member, Committee for Alternative Arrangement
6. Solomon Ningshen, President, Tangkhul Naga Long
7. S. T. Nunghlung Victor, President, Chandel Naga People’s Organisation
8. Thomas Kamei, Chairman, Zeliangrong Baudi Manipur
9. M. L. Markson, President, Naga People’s Organisation, Tahamzam (Senapati)
GOM
1. D. S. Poonia, Chief Secretary
2. L. P. Golmei, Principal Secretary, Power
3. B. K. Kishpota, Commissioner (Home)
4. Dr. Sajjad Hassan, Special Secretary (Planning)
5. Devesh Deval, Jt. Secretary, (Home)
6. Pradeep Kumar Jha, Deputy Commissioner, Senapati
7. Nishit Kumjar Ujjwal, Superintendent of Police, Senapati
8. Sumant Singh, Secretary to Chief Minister
GOI
1. U. K. Bansal, Secretary, Internal Security, Ministry of Home Affairs
2. Shambhu Singh, Joint Secretary (NE), Ministry of Home Affairs
3. A. K. Mishra, Jt. Director (IB), Ministry of Home Affairs
4. Brig. A. K. Narula, Commander 59th Mountain Brigade
5. Col. S. K. Narayan, Director MO-II, Ministry of Defence









The meeting scheduled for 10 AM started at 10: 30 AM. The Deputy Commissioner, Senapati, welcomed the delegates of the 3 parties to the Tripartite Talk and requested the delegates to introduce themselves. First the GOM officials introduced themselves, followed by team from the GOI, and finally by the UNC delegates. The talk commenced with the following statement by U. K. Bansal of GOI.
U. K. Bansal, GOI: We are meeting here after the last meeting in December 2010. As you all know the GOI is pursuing at various level a large number of initiatives for the development and well being of the north east parts of the country particularly the tribals citizens of India and we have seen the fructification of the efforts as they are happily received by the intended target population. The constitution offers enough flexibility and room for meeting the aspiration of all citizens of the country and this has been proved time and again. Without taking more time, I will request Mr. Poonia to initiate the discussion.
Poonia, GOM: Thank you, Sir. Good morning to everyone. We are happy that the UNC has come forward to the Deputy Commissioners office for the second time. On behalf of the GoM, I would like to welcome the UNC team and also Mr Bansal and his team from GOI. To briefly recapitulate the December 2010 meeting, despite having different views on the issues placed, the parties have expressed willingness to meet again. On behalf of the GOM, I would only like to say that we have moved for development and welfare of the people of the state, particularly in the hills, to see that it is more balanced and to sustain the ADC which has just completed one year. They have started functioning. We have also devolved functions and funds to the ADC and involved them in supervision and implementation. This is a very democratic process and this has been under discussion for a long time. The Ministry of Home Affairs had insisted on the ADC election and we have carried out the same with difficulty. We are in touch with the Planning commission, with the MHA, DONER, NEC, to see that …. For the last 3 days, the Secretary, DONER, has been with us for commencement of the second phase of the International Fund for Agriculture development project on North East Region Community Resource Development Programme (NERCRDP). The first phase was completed in Senapati in 2008 with the involvement of local NGOs. Capacity of the people and production by the people has been enhanced and they are able to market their produce due to such intervention. Now, Ukhrul, Chandel and Churachandpur districts will be covered by this project and will result in improvement of livelihood. The project involves all stakeholders in the planning process and execution. We look forward to the UNC to join hand with us in the process. We invite you to share your views on the proposal and express any issues you would like to raise. It is an open forum.
U. K. Bansal, GOI: I request Mr. Sword Vashum to take the floor and carry forward the discussion.
UNC: Thank you very much Mr. Bansal. At the very outset, we want to make it abundantly clear that we regret to hear what Mr. Poonia has to say in this august house. We Nagas are here to play the ball game up front. We are not here to catch any body by surprise. We have placed our cards on the table plain and squarely, leaving none in doubt. The GOI has conveyed to all concern that the issue to be discussed in this talk is the agenda we have presented to the GOI in our Memo on 14th September, 2010. With due respect to the CS, GOM, I will request you not to put the cart before the horse and that all you have painstakingly explained before this August House to the delegates of the 3 entities could have been done long time back. I need to remind you that this is not a full blown cancer, and if you go about trying to treat it as a mere ulcer, you don’t mean business. You are only trying to fool the patient. We would want to make it absolutely clear that it would be gross injustice. Now I would like to take you into the background on how this tripartite talk came about. It was on the 14th September, 2010 the Hon’ble Home Minister of India on having received the Memo submitted by the Nagas initiated this tripartite talk. It is entirely at his initiative and we, on our part in deference to the wish and desire of the Hon’ble Home Minister, we had said yes, given the goodwill and given the seriousness of purpose and commitment in finding solution and we in anticipation of finding amicable solution agreed to sitting down across the table. Now, it was on the 11th of May 2011, Hon’ble Home Minister came again to Manipur. He was in Ukhrul and we called on him and he said the process needs to be hastened and he would not like any roadblock in the process of tripartite talk and he pleaded with us to be patient and he is sure that the process of dialogue would be taken to its logical conclusion. We are here to discuss what has been placed to GOI. And if this tripartite talk would lead to any constructive result it will only be by adhering to the core issue. If we are clear about the core issue then we can proceed further. On the 3rd of December this was the bone of contention and we had made it absolutely clear in no uncertain terms that less than the core issue anything would be beating about the bush. We are not here to waste our time, your time, your energy, your resources in stepping around the main issue. Yes, time will surely come when we need to get down to talking about even the related side issue but let us be clear about the core issue . Once we are clear about the core issue, then we can proceed further. This is our humble submission.
U. K. Bansal, GOI: Other friends from the UNC are welcomes to share their views.
UNC: I would thank on behalf of our team the central team for taking this mission and coming all the way from Delhi for the tripartite talk. I would like to supplement what our Chairman has just mentioned. In the 14th September, 2010 we submitted a memo to the Hon’ble Home Minister and in the course of the discussion, our Hon’ble HM had mentioned something very important and we would like to base our discussion or dialogue on the basis of the statement he had made - that is, pending the final solution, we need to work out an arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur. So, If this talk is based or prepared for going about an alternative arrangement which otherwise is a temporary arrangement pending the final solution and if that is made clear to us and if this team, today, if we are agreeable to make an alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur I think we can further go ahead and we can discuss other things also.
U. K. Bansal GOI: Any other hon’ble members would like to make their comments?
UNC: Supplementing the chairman and member of the committee, I also would like to share my views. The ongoing tripartite talk, has been initiated by the home minister on the basis of the memorandum 14/9/2010. We come to the third Tripartite Talk with the hope that the GOI would take the Memo as the core issue of this talk. If not, I think there is no point of further discussion, rather it would be taken as waste of time. Because the CS, GOM, has mentioned about the ADC but the Nagas have declared null and void the existing District Council and there is no room for discussion of that issue. Now the onus lies on the GOI.
U. K. Bansal, GOI: Any more members please?
UNC: I would like to add a small opinion. On the 14th of September, 2010 we called on the Hon’ble HM and subsequently, the 1st Tripartite Talk took place in the presence of Mr. G. K. Pillai, Union Home Secy and Shambhu Singh, JS MHA was very much there in that first talk. Having said that I concur with all what my friends have said in presenting the case of the UNC. If the central team led by UK Bansal and GOM team led by DS Poonia, if the two parties are in a position to discuss the core issue, we are ready, other wise we are wasting our time because we are meeting after 7 months since the last 3rd December talk. And Manipur government has been making so many noises and we don’t want to go into those things. If both the parties are willing to uphold what the Hon’ble Home Minister’s told us on the 14th Sept. last we would like to continue the Tripartite Talk on that basis.
U. K. Bansal, GOI: It is good that we are gone past the review of the past. It is also clear that there are different perceptions with regard to the way forward. However, I disagree about this meeting being a waste of time. If there are no differences, such meeting would not be necessary. GOI is facilitating to reduce and narrow down the difference. It is important that we further clarify and explain the issue. Those would be the take-away from this meeting for decisions at different levels. I request D. S. Poonia to carry forward the discussion.
D. S. Poonia, GOM: It would be unfair to the GOI and GOM to say it is a waste of time. Let us not make any personal attacks so that we can continue the talk with dignity. If clarity is there, we can have a fruitful talk. What is the demand of the UNC? When Manipur became a state, the District Council was introduced recognizing the difference between the hill and valley. GOM & GOI are clear that there should be democratic polity in place. If we have ADC, what is wrong with that, why declare it null and void? By doing so, the constitutional structure is being challenged.
UNC: We are here for the serious business laid out on the table. We are not making any personal attacks. The 23rd June, 2011 notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs, is very clear on the agenda and let us not skirt the main issue. First should come first, and whatever come next will be next. Our memo is stated to be the main agenda. It is no more an administrative or developmental issue. What we are asking for is the constitutional arrangement outside the GOM.
Shambhu Singh, GOI: In the previous meeting, we had discussed about the territorial issue. One thing was clearly delineated in that meeting, and that was, any arrangement is possible under the Indian constitution except for the fact that the territorial boundary of Manipur cannot be changed.
UNC: I am most surprised that none other than the Jt. Sec, NE, Ministry of Home Affairs is talking about the territorial integrity of Manipur which is unconstitutional. May I remind that the Union Home Minister had painstakingly initiated this dialogue.
D. S. Poonia, GOM: I would like to intervene and reiterate. What is wrong with the present arrangement? In what manner can it be changed so that it is acceptable by the 3 parties?
UNC: To make it very clear, we know what the district Council Act is. There was a series of protest against it. You did not pay heed. You went ahead with the election. This ADC members, are they really people’s representatives? Then why are they functioning from Imphal under security cover provided by the GOM. It is a political issue.
U. K. Bansal, GOI: Even if it is with difficulty, some clarity is emerging. I don’t understand the objection to the principle and to the democratic process of election. The state government would like to understand the reasons behind not accepting the principles of election. This might help in finding the way forward.
UNC: If you are to continue with this issue of ADC, we will have to cut short this discussion. Our memo is clear, and nowhere does it mention the ADC as an agenda.
D. S. Poonia, GOM: The UNC memo states that the ADCs have been declared null and void and under no circumstances it will be allowed to function in the Naga areas. It is a democratic exercise. The district council is a democratic set up. We would like the ADCs to function in the hill just like the Panchayati Raj are in place in the valley. The Hon’ble Home Minister has stated that the district council must function. I urge the UNC not to have a closed mind. If you want to have further consultation, that can be done because it is a dialogue process. We had responded in the last meeting on the points contained in the memorandum.
UNC: All you have been suggesting is nothing but asserting that the status quo must continue. If the District Councils would have delivered, it would have done so in the last 40 years. It is a thoroughly discredited institution. GOM in good sense should see reason and seriously examine the UNC demand. We have not taken this decision rashly and out of emotion but after painful discussions and deliberations.
UNC: In response to the Memorandum of 14th Sept 2010, the Home Minister was well aware that the ADC election had been held and he had agreed that something must be done for the Nagas in Manipur pending the Indo Naga political settlement. The decision to declare the ADC as null and void arose because of the GOM’s refusal to listen to the Nagas and denial of their desire to live in peace. GOM refuses to let the Chief Minister of Nagaland to visit Senapati when it is perfectly legal and democratic. When we are subjected to this kind of deprivation, we are compelled to look for alternative arrangement. We are not for improvement or enhancement of the ADCs and what we are asking for is purely democratic.
Shambhu Singh, GOI: In the process of this discourse, I have now become a little hopeful. If the present shape of the Dist. Council is not acceptable, we can discuss what shape can be adopted.
UNC: Do you want us to continue to be suppressed by the dominant and communal GOM? You are speaking in the language of Ibobi Singh, CM, Manipur, that the territorial integrity of Manipur cannot be disturbed and this is not even constitutional.
UNC: What the Nagas mean is not upgradation or improvement or changes in the ADC Act but outside the GOM.
Poonia, GOM: What the last speaker has just mentioned is very striking. I request the GOI to clarify the same because the GOM’s position is very clear.
(U.K. Bansal passes on to Shambhu Singh)
Shambhu Singh, GOI: The reference to the constitution should be taken in its entirety. It has a proviso that the consent of the State Government is to be obtained. It is not a simple thing for the GOI. The GOI has to ensure that if gaps or differences are there, then it should be narrowed and reduced. It cannot be partisan or unilateral in its decision.
UNC: I thank you for the reference to the proviso. What we are requesting you is to decide on the merit of the case. The consent of the state is not binding. Ever since independence, we have been living under a colonial regime whereas you live in a democratic country and system and you enjoy the fruits of democracy. We appeal to your conscience to look at the merit of the case. We are not cattles, we are not neighbours by choice, but we can go the extra way to be good neighbours. This memorandum is not submitted to the GOM, it is to the GOI. Do you really want us to continue under this hegemony? For all this while, we have been suppressed.
Poonia, GOM: I am glad that views have been expressed clearly and bluntly. So within the constitutional framework, what is the alternative arrangement?
UNC: Our memo of 14th September 2010 should not be taken as a standalone. It has to be taken in consultation with the Nagas.
Poonia, GOM: We have two power point presentations. One is on the ADC and the devolution of powers, and the other is on the various development plans and programmes for the hill areas. Can we present them?
UNC: About the format of this talk, let us first be clear about the core issue. And then we can move on, otherwise the discussion will become open ended.
Poonia, GOM: The information I am talking about is already on our website. I request to make the power point presentation. You can reject or accept it but kindly allow us to make the presentation.
UNC: Our chairman has amply clarified our position. The unmistakable facts that calls for severance of ties which is an enclosure to our memo must be the basis and we must confine to that and not on the discarded ADC.
U. K. Bansal, GOI: This talk is a democratic process. We have not prevented anybody from expressing their views even if they have delivered in a vitriolic manner. Let the power point be presented. The memo is based on the severance of ties, since it is political, it should be handled at another level. There is a very high level of talk which is taking place. So let us not be despondent. Views should always be welcomed.
UNC: With due respect, we are not averse to listen to anything they want to say. But first we want to know whether the core issue is acceptable. Then we can proceed. Speakers have referred to the high level political talk, we have nothing to say on that. We are not preposterous to take on the mantle of the higher process. This issue and talk is specific with and for the Nagas in Manipur. Nothing more, nothing less.
Poonial, GOM: I can understand the concerns expressed in the memo. The GOM has already furnished its response to the memo to the GOI although we have not given it to the UNC as the UNC has refused to accept any communication from us. I would like to present the GOM’s response to the GOI.
1. The territory integrity of Manipur cannot be compromised. Anything within Manipur can be considered and dialogued.
2. The ADC election has been duly carried out. There is a global upsurge for democracy and in tune with this the elections had been held. The Hill Areas Committee is in place and all 20 MLAs of the hills are its members, and the ADC Act has been duly approved by the HAC. It is a well established tradition that the election process cannot be interfered with even by the courts, and it is interesting that none of the elections have been challenged in the court.
3. On the dual system of administration in the hills and valleys, I would like to say that there is no duality. The system is adopted by taking the specific geo-economic and development needs of the people and place.
4. The mention made about the accession of Manipur to India in 1949 without the consent of the Nagas is already a settled issue.
5. Manipur is multi ethnic and the GOM seeks to cater to all the communities in it while the demand of the UNC is confined to that of only one community.
6. Consolidation of contiguous Naga areas: the position of the GOM on this is already well established.
7. No House Tax campaign: A government has every right to receive/collect tax from its citizens.
8. AFSPA, 1958 and militarization: On AFSPA, the GOI can respond. On militarization, we are to say that there is no militarization and that it is the duty of the state to secure its territory with police/armed forces.
9. Laws and acts like VA Act 1956, MLRLR Act 1960 etc: these have been drawn up to give full protection to all people.
10. Delimitation and census issues: It is subjudiced at the moment and we have no comment on that. It is not the GOM that has gone to the Supreme Court.
11. Suppression: There is no suppression.
If we rake up old issues, it cannot help the dialogue. It is a responsibility to take forward the dialogue. I urge the UNC to be more balanced in their approach as UNC is not accepting GOM’s communication.
UNC: Even in the face of ground realities, if you are harping on the glorious achievements with flowery language. It will not cut ice. They are not corroborated by facts and realities on the ground. And when we raise our voice, you say that it is not constitutional. Why are the tribal areas backward ? Why are the National highways not motorable. We don’t have to go far, you can come with me to the police point (in Tahamzam) or to any village nearby or look into any schemes that you have claimed as achievements. The ground reality will bear itself out. I repeat that our memo is to the GOI. Mr. Bansal Sir, if GOI is rigid on an unconstitutional issue of the territorial integrity of Manipur, and tells us not to be rigid, the talk is not going to work out. If you say things can still work out, please speak out your mind how it can be so. It is now up to the GOI to continue the process with a bipartite talk as the GOM has already closed the door for further discussion.
UNC: “Chingmi-tammi hingminashi”, “the hill and valley people let us live together”, a slogan on the pretext of which they just want to grab our share. Enough is enough. So let them live happily, and we also be allowed to peacefully pursue our lives. Why this forcible cohabitation when one is not comfortable, why impose?
Bansal, GOI: In the last ten minutes, both sides have made several things abundantly clear. I request the representatives of the parties for reflection and introspection. The parameter of the talk should be such that there should be room for accommodation and adjustment. I think the clarity with which we have addressed each other in the same way is beneficial. It lays down the need for further interaction as and when we have something substantive. The sentiments expressed here has been understood and shall be carried back to the principals. I thank you.
UNC: Thank you for the sentiments expressed. But this dialogue cannot be carried on in a vacuum. We have come to this table in all seriousness and commitment but having heard you out, particularly from the GOM, I cannot help being pessimistic and do not see any way forward. If we are continuing this way, we are deceiving not only ourselves but the people we represent and the government that you represent. We are for peaceful solution but not at the cost of the core issue.
THE MEETING CONCLUDED AT 12.30 AM
KIO's politics may turn to Kachins' politics (A special article for Kachin Revolution Day)
Monday, 04 February 2008 00:00 Zai Dai
I. Introduction
At this moment KIO/A is into costly celebrations of the landmark occasion of the 47th anniversary of KIO/A's armed revolution day in its General Headquarters Laiza, along with its comrades and VIPs from the Kachin communities. The northern commander Gen. Ohn Myint and his colleagues were invited. In fact the KIO/A being the armed organization was founded for socio-political combat on being denied the political means in particular for the survival and human rights of the Kachins due to and by the central bureaucrats' manipulation of the Union Supreme authority as an Unitary means towards the states and their citizens in Burma.
Recently Burma celebrated the 60th anniversary of its independence from the British colonists thundering that this is a golden country where no civilized value is being preoccupied and precipitated in the ruling enterprise of the regime. Whereas, on the one hand, the regime is roughly working towards its seven steps set up the 104 principles based Road Map, the Burmese Buddhist democratic monarchical systems by the vital help of ceasefire groups actively led by the KIO, who seem to be allured to be granted the position of vice president II in the new government body soon to be formed by means of a single party process though multi-party democratic nation is being declared.
Meanwhile there is no impression or rather any encouragement to the KIO's politics that always centers on the regime's worthless democratic principle and its politics rather than the Kachin people's politics. In this juncture, the grand 47th KIO/A's armed revolution day is being celebrated for four days in Laiza.
II. The birth of the revolutionary spirit of KIO/A and its key political nature
It was the decision of the founding 'Seven Stars' of the KIO/A, one of them is still alive in the KIO on the advice of Malizup Zau Mai, to resolve the social-political turmoil unfortunately confronted by the Kachins. The certain source by the author of "Kachin Chronological History," H. Naw Awn writes that the Seven Stars was founded by some of Rangoon University Students led by Lahtaw Zau Tu around 1957 and so forth.
The Seven Stars was formed in order to found the Kachin armed group to regain the loss of political rights being constituted and signed in Panglong for the formation of The Union of Burma under one accord of that is the Federal Union of Burma. Aware of the fact that the central government's betrayal upon the Pang lung agreement, the genocidal campaign through Burmanization, homogenization and Buddhanization towards the Kachins, manipulation and exploitation of Kachins's land for the profit of U Nu and his colleagues, the Seven Stars formed the KIA.
The first leader was GOC Lahtaw Zau Seng who was withdrawn from being captain in the Karen Army, and the eldest brother of Lahtaw Zau Tu, the founding leader of the Seven Stars. This is what the nationalist university students initiated --- armed revolution against the regime's rule and what had it done towards the Kachins without thorough consultations with the Kachin people. In this way without the full the knowledge of the Kachin people and the five Kachin regiments the Kachin armed group was formed and was called the KIA without much support and much help.
The Kachin Independent Army (KIA) was formed against misconduct, monopolization of state power and not exercising the 1947 constitution by the government rather the political tendency of solving our crisis on the basis of the Federal Democratic means as rightly formed in Burma. This is the intention of taking up arms, except that a political gap was created between the Kachins as a whole and KIA/O in particular till today.
III. The KIO/A's struggle for independence
The KIO/A fought for sovereignty from the yoke of General Ne Win's regime. This principle of KIO/A's politics had to be to be harvested. The early session of KIO/A's operation was the strongest armed fight in Burma. The goal could have been accomplished as the KIO/A set out from the long before provided common goal of the group which was Independence. Yet there seemed that there was common dilemma of its goal laid by the leading generals.
Moreover there was no way of full support from the public of Kachin being ignorant of the politics whatever federal or independent one that is to be fit with the Kachins. Provided the people of this soil had promulgated such set political principle to be formulated well, there would have been gained the target placed by the KIO/A long before by means of the unanimous effort of the Kachins. The fact that the missing of the point of Independence of KIO/A is not just a matter of inability of the armed group and its implemented strategies and tactics of attack towards the regime alone, it was a matter of political issue being applied by the group.
It is thoughtful that so far there is no supreme victory of a single battle in this world under any imperialist military regime of Burma unless there is common war of the people those who really long for their independence. When there is victory on any peoples' war, for instance people war of America, there is skillful and strong army in general and beautiful politics in particular and sometimes both interpolate vice visa in peoples' common struggle.
IV. The KIO/A politics degraded down till at the stage of a Federal Union
This ought not to be the major business of KIO/A as an armed group when the people of Burma do activate their federal democratic politics as democracy is for the people and by the people. It is known that the federal road has been the set goal of the group since the early 80s and such function had reached its peak in Burma when the democratic election was held in 1990 and the constituent realm of political game was highly rendered by Maran Brang Seng, former KIO's chairman.
This is how Maran Brang Seng took up his position as a public leader who stood for the Kachins as well as for the citizens of Burma. Of course he did not mean that the KIO has been neglecting to line in the federal principle initially pioneered by former president of the KIO, Mr. Maran Brang Seng. As the key principle is the democratic means of solving and cessation of social-political crisis and problems in Burma and in Kachin in particular. Indeed, the KIO's ceasefire agreement has been made with the view to political means of solution to be implemented.
The KIO has been waiting for political dialogue for almost two decades after the consensus of ceasefire with the regime without gaining any political benefits for the Kachins. Till today, even the regime yielded that the promise that "KIO can talk political issue with the incoming democratic government later, and since the regime is not in that position. It is the right time to do development in its special region wise for the time being with this present junta as long as they are as it is" that is what the Kachins have been known.
Despite such knowledge the regime pressurized KIO to attend the National Convention and have a political dialogue on behalf of all the Kachins by no means is the regime a legitimate new democratic government of Burma. Moreover, the regime cunningly creates KIO/A as a group without arms as it wants it to be just a Kachin Development Party. In this way, the regime has denied and violated federal laws.
No doubt that federal tract of politics has been the only way for all in all solution of political turmoil for both Burmese and states' citizens being strongly convicted by Maran Brang Seng. On the other hand federalism has been alienated by a handful of dictators as if federalism seems to be propagated as a destructive weapon and tools of neo-colonists to be avoided to implement in Burma for over generations and generations.
Indeed the federal concept of politics has been the only and the best principle where the states could meet in the formation of the Federal Union of Burma in the political history of Burma that there are other means of political ways of solutions. Even at the moment the United Nations is strongly believed and recommend with its mandate that the social-political turmoil of Burma could be solved in implementation of the Federal democracy particularly by means of tripartite since the time of Kofi Annan.
Meantime, in this era each and every of civilized society is extending the concept of federal norms for establishing and solving of the one's problems as a criterion. Moreover this weapon is the only tool which can fight away all evil dominion over one's nation, society and country so that just, liberated, and equal society can be formed. Yet the regime of Burma seems never consider thinking that KIO/A has been one again practically proposing the key mean of federal principle on behalf of all Kachins to solve the entire socio-political crisis faced in Burma till just before the ceased fire agreement signed between them.
Actually the degradation of the political stand of KIO/A till the stage of Federal Union is very political when we recapitulate its teaching according to Jean J. Rousseau's The Principle of Political Right (1762). Though political way of solution invited the regime rather more reinforces and committees its militarization in the Kachin State and implements its four cut policies (cutting of lives, cutting of economics, cutting of information and cutting of roads ) towards KIO/A and the Kachins even after ceased fire agreement signed.
It shows that the regime is still rejecting the KIO's proposal of finding the solution through political mean. Then who will advocate as master of federal means since KIO's political proposal has been rejected by the regime yet there are much of advice and saying that it is the best way that the only federal principle will definitely lead us till our goal in this civilized era.
V. The political crossroad for building of Kachins' nation in the midst of tendency of any political principle to be inaugurated and enacted thereby
In this session being a citizen of this soil the author would impart his vision that there are tendency of variant political realms or status where the KIO and the Kachins would adopt very soon after the 47th anniversary of the armed revolution day of KIO/A. Because the time is rung up to make a certain political decision to be uphold for the common struggle of people of the Kachins with one strength, one goal and one accord that has to be immediately complied out not just because of the time or the rest are compelling us to be but this undertaking ought to be because of we are exercising as the Authors and masters of this land in terms of taking up its responsibility and managerial appointments.
On one hand as it has been the nature of the military regime there is so much of military and other pressure upon the KIO/A thinking and persuading that the only KIO/A would represent for the affair of the whole Kachins as General Aung San did the same thing to some his handpicked Kachin Duwas like Sinwa Nawng, Zau Lawn and others.
In this way the regime is giving much pressure upon the KIO/A with harsh military pattern and smooth persuasion by power, wealth and development yet not by the political means so far since the ceased fire agreement has been signed between KIO/A and the regime. Having been recapitulated that the political scenario where the Kachins are living right now, the following political trends will be imparted to adopt either one of in developing Kachin nation of so long as the country is being flatted under this military regime.
KIO's politics is being pressured towards the level of Kachin Development Party
The regime has given much pressure upon the KIO/A as just a Kachin Development Party (KDP) so that all the KIO/A shall be rich in wealth for the time being as planned. Yet the regime won't tolerate the political and military solution of KIO/A in case needed at this level of trust and of friendship built between them. Definitely sooner or later one way or the other the regime will materialize its plan by supporting the KIO/A in terms of food, salary and other means without solving the political problem first.
This is how the termination of the KIO/A is publicly seen their clear destiny because the political vehicle being ride is leading them all to that terminal. Then could the politics of development of this regime solve the political problem of the whole Kachins? Paul E. Sigmund points out that there is real and full swing of development after establishing national liberty. Hereby seen that the regime manipulates the KIO's politics to be turned and forcibly exchange into just development.
Indeed, having been played of much and often unlimited power and of sympathy over the KIO/A in various means directly by the Northern Command commander Maj-Gen Ohn Myint and Naypyidaw recently, it should has been comprehended and calculated that the KIO/A is rolling its political enterprise under the administration of the junta in term of policy under the beautiful words of development. Yet, we, the Kachins, indeed are in need of political solution rather than development being not political means.
Independence could be re-strengthened and revitalized
It had been the first commitment made by KIO/A and fought for it for over decades and decades. Since disposed that the regime doesn't please to solve such political chaos in Burma. Supposed that the regime is still rejecting the political solution with the federal democratic principle in Burma, there is another means of knocking out such problem by fighting once again with arm till the Independences is attained. This principle could be possible because the Kachin led and signed Panglong agreement on the basis of formation of the Federal Union, Burma.
Before the Kachins and Kachinland was never under any other domination. This trend is undeniable especially for those who are being oppressed, like we, the Kachins. Since freedom is demanded for all and the people (Kachins and Kachin-citizens) not for the individual statehood Independence could be possible when the majority preoccupied the spirit and the capacity of obedience the general will; the nature of will of freedom of each individual for Rousseau. Here the only we are in need of such principle are that provided the Independence is the common goal of the Kachin from the military yoke, we ourselves have to be exercised and called for speed for the support of the prevailing laid principle.
No nation is happy, prosperous, developed, educated, civilized and so forth under any military dictators today. Therefore this is the prime time for the Kachins to be scrutinizes our political principle under this regime. Once one of the Kachin senior pastors said that there is nothing improvements so long as the Kachins are tied together by mean of federal union with this regime for more than one generation or his generation. Likewise if we are still with the regime even now no profit would be gained for us as federal statehood mean rather there would be more crisis and problems.
Therefore be undependable Kachins in politics if we really want to become a great nation in this world. The principle and spirit of independence is not only arm revolution but also politics of the civilized citizens of the world in particular. Because we, the Kachins need true democracy where "All are equal as much in their ways of life and their abilities as in their opinions and wealth as Rousseau advocated." We the Kachins can't stay together with the regime who eradicates the democracy and pro-democrats.
People's politics under federal democracy
Supposed the KIO/A had emphasized its arm revolution with the grand standard target of federal democratic trend from the very beginning of its struggle there would have been established something federal nation from long before already.
Unfortunately or fortunately the people publics have seemed to have much been overwhelmed by the KIO/A's master "ism" that seems really disturbed and hindered the people's knowledge of survival politics of people politics of federalism for all. Rather the Kachin publics had been contented and satisfied upon what they had been entertained by KIO/A for a revolutionary generation and completely trusted and believed that one day the independence of Kachins would be visualized.
Even today the Kachin people, as simplest and innocence one, have been politically manipulated and cheated by the regime and today the Kachin peoples are in dilemma what politics to chose and where to go under the leadership of dishonest leaders and the dirty political game played by the regime. Nevertheless in this civilized era how could grasp the civil power by any oligarchy, a single party, military dictatorship any longer as an evil one. As the time has come that the people fight for their own destiny is unavoidable in the transformation process towards democratic society. As Burma has been formed under the consensus of federal democratic value this is the right tract to find out the right solution by people's undertaking of their own means that is very political and very human.
Moreover the United Nation mandate is made on the basis of federal means for the harmony and reconciliation to be reconstructed among political parties, the ethnicities and the regime since 1990. In this juncture, the author emphasis his focus on people politics of the Kachins as a whole for effective and democratic resolution of the generation prolong national political void in Burma.
Here one quotation in regard to how people's politics play the major role for the making of free and equal society with the same nature of rights that Man existed before society: this is Thomas Pain's self-evident point of departure. Therefore according to Pain "the individual's right to self-determination has thus been transformed into the fright to take part in the decisions of society. Society must operate for the welfare of all, just as the free individual worked for his own good" culminated by Herbert Tingsten.
Indeed we the Kachins never come forward together as a people movement not even once for the building of our nation remarked by Rev. Maran Ja Gun, public leader of the year 2007 according to KNG (www.kachinnews.com). Here inspired how the just and democratic society is established basing on the individual spirit of freedom and individual right since man has been created by God, there is the innate and inborn value of each individual in formation of democratic society. This is how the society is being established with the power of people for long run.
The Kachins have been no attempt of people movement, people war, people politics, people determination, and people front in our national struggle form this regime so far except KIO/A's politics and war. Yet today we the Kachins are in need of national people war against any dictatorship in terms of politics and war if genuine federal democracy is our target to be achieved in this soil. So far there is no country and nation that which are defeated in their people political operation or fight and people war in western hemisphere and Asia continents as well till today.
Now is the time for the Kachins including all armed groups to open new political file of the Kachin national politics under the federal democratic principle in order to crackdown the military dictatorship and revitalize the genuine federal union in Burma. In this transitional turmoil of political crisis, digesting the fact that it has been discussed above the KIO/A may initiate for Kachin people politics and take up such principle in this prime time so that each individual and citizen of this soil can join in eradication of evil dictatorship prior to transform federal union in particular in Burma.
Conclusion
In this epitomes of critical pinpointing of the real scenario where the Kachins are struggling and being threatened by the socio-political situation created by the regime as it has been its nature and its task toward the Kachins in the history of Burma too. Being experienced ones especially in dealing with the regime since right after Burma independence, we, the Kachins get insight of what the regime would step next in politics whatever the international communities, including the UN have mandated that Burma socio-political havoc could be only solved by the standard norm of federal democratic principle.
On one hand, the role of the Kachin is very unique in aid of the sustainability and prolongs stability of the burning fire of military government in Burma. Even in the history of Burma and the world, the Kachins has been served from second and third position as guerilla fighters, Levite and rangers and commanders, Special Forces, military heroes especially for the fight against colonialism, fascism, and for the saving of this country from both inside and outside enemies as loyal citizens and soldiers of Burma.
We only fought for this country and the power stability of the Burmese regime as faithful ones yet no political privilege was significantly exploited by us thus far so as the Kachins are signed in Pang Lung. Yet nothing political solution has been welcomed though KIO and the Kachin often demanded for. Therefore in this crucial time, the Kachins, the people and the master of this land, are compelled to fight for the bright future of this country and Kachin State in particular by means of federal norm.
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